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Fintech Boom Drives Financial Inclusion in Africa, Yet High Funding Costs Block Climate and Digital Progress

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Dall·e 2024 11 07 17.04.51 A 16 9 Image Depicting The Transformative Growth Of Fintech In Africa, Featuring Digital Finance Elements Such As Mobile Banking Icons, Fintech Networ

In a newly released report, the European Investment Bank (EIB) reveals that Africa’s fintech sector has nearly tripled in size since 2020, bringing vital financial services to underserved communities across the continent. However, the report, Finance in Africa 2024, also underscores significant barriers to growth: high funding costs and limited capital, which are hindering Africa’s climate and digital transitions.

“Fintech is revolutionizing the way we think about finance in Africa,” noted EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros. “By leveraging technology, we can improve access to finance for millions and foster sustainable economic growth.”

The rapid expansion of digital finance solutions is shifting the African financial landscape, with fintech firms multiplying from 450 in 2020 to 1,263 in early 2024. This boom is increasing access to credit, particularly benefiting small businesses and marginalized populations, according to the EIB’s ninth annual Banking in Africa survey.

While digital solutions flourish, traditional banking in Africa faces considerable challenges. About one-third of African banks reported a lack of capital and cited funding costs as obstacles to growth. These constraints contribute to Africa’s declining private-sector credit, which fell from 56% of GDP in 2007 to 36% in 2022, stalling progress in industrialization and economic resilience.

EIB Chief Economist Debora Revoltella emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges to unlock Africa’s potential. “While we see some signs of improvement, the high cost of finance remains a source of concern. As we navigate the dual challenges of climate change and digital transformation, the role of multilateral development bank lending is even more relevant in supporting sustainable growth on the continent.”

The report highlights Africa’s heightened vulnerability to climate change, with 34% of surveyed banks noting asset quality deterioration due to extreme weather events. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are particularly affected, as climate-related risks undermine their resilience and creditworthiness. Revoltella’s call to action underscores the need for financing models that can absorb climate risks while fostering economic growth.

Gender-sensitive lending is another notable trend identified in the report. Nine out of 10 banks across Africa are considering or implementing a gender strategy, encouraged by data showing better loan performance among women-led businesses. Nearly 70% of banks reported lower rates of non-performing loans for women-owned firms, and 17% plan to introduce a dedicated gender strategy to expand this promising avenue.

Economic conditions in Africa are gradually improving, with sovereign bond yields falling, giving several nations renewed access to international bond markets. However, the EIB Financial Conditions Index still shows overall financial conditions as restrictive, posing challenges to private-sector growth.

The EIB Global, a division dedicated to international partnerships, seeks to bridge these financial gaps by supporting sustainable investment in Africa. Through initiatives such as Global Gateway, EIB Global aims to mobilize €100 billion in investment by 2027, with a particular focus on digital infrastructure and climate resilience.

The Finance in Africa 2024 report offers a comprehensive analysis of both the opportunities and the structural challenges facing Africa’s financial sector. As fintech continues to transform the region’s financial services, the EIB’s report underscores that easing financial barriers and investing in climate adaptation are essential steps toward a sustainable and inclusive economic future in Africa

Von der Leyen Charts Strategic Path for Europe’s Future at Budapest EPC Meeting

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European commission President speaking

At the European Political Community (EPC) meeting in Budapest, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined a strategic vision for Europe’s future, emphasizing transatlantic relations, economic resilience, and defense preparedness.

Von der Leyen began by congratulating Donald J. Trump on his recent electoral victory, expressing eagerness to strengthen the transatlantic bond. This gesture underscores the EU‘s commitment to robust relations with the United States, a key ally in addressing global challenges.

The President highlighted Europe‘s unity in overcoming recent crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the energy challenges stemming from Russia’s war in Ukraine. She stressed the importance of continued collaboration to navigate future challenges.

Central to her address were three strategic priorities:

  1. Joint Plan for Competitiveness, Digitalization, and Decarbonization: Von der Leyen referenced the Draghi Report, authored by former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, which calls for substantial EU investments to enhance competitiveness and address climate goals. The report recommends annual investments of €750 billion to €800 billion to keep pace with global competitors like the U.S. and China. Euronews
  2. Reducing Overdependencies and Leveling the Economic Playing Field: The President emphasized the need to mitigate Europe‘s reliance on external entities, fostering a more balanced economic environment. This aligns with Draghi’s recommendations for a comprehensive industrial strategy to prevent the EU from lagging behind global competitors. Financial Times
  3. Enhancing Defense Capabilities and Preparedness: Drawing on the Niinistö Report by former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, von der Leyen advocated for bolstering Europe’s defense mechanisms. The report suggests that the EU allocate 20% of its budget to security and crisis preparedness, addressing geopolitical tensions and climate change risks. Financial Times

Von der Leyen’s address reflects a proactive approach to Europe’s future, building on expert insights to navigate complex global dynamics. Her call to action underscores the EU’s commitment to unity and strategic planning in the face of evolving challenges.

Pope Francis and the Peace Algorithm, A Renewed Path to Global Harmony

By
Leonid Sevastianov
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Leonid And Pope

A New Global Mediator

Today’s world faces profound challenges, with one of the most significant being the crisis in international institutions established after World War II. The United Nations increasingly struggles to de-escalate military tensions, even in Europe, and cannot reform to meet new conditions. If one of the UN Security Council’s permanent members violates the Charter, it can use its veto to block compromise and neutralize the organization’s peacekeeping efforts.

Under these circumstances, the world needs a new mediator—a person or institution with universal authority capable of influencing opposing sides. Pope Francis and the Holy See have this potential due to his spiritual influence, which reaches beyond confessional boundaries. His approach, often called the “peace algorithm,” rests on the belief that peace is achieved not through military victories but by creating conditions where all parties in a conflict can feel they have emerged victorious.

The Papal Algorithm

In the initial months of the full-scale war in Ukraine, Pope Francis proposed a “peace algorithm” designed, in his view, to satisfy both sides. This “algorithm” is not aimed at achieving a tactical victory but at creating common ground for all parties involved. For Francis, true victory means productive cooperation capable of confronting global challenges such as climate change or the need to explore space as Earth’s resources dwindle.

Rome as an Archetype

Pope Francis evokes the image of ancient Rome—a symbol of Pax Romana, in which diverse cultures coexisted harmoniously. The civilizations of Europe, Russia, America, and Asia are all deeply rooted in Rome’s cultural legacy. In this context, the Pope envisions Rome as a unifying symbol, not just metaphorically but also politically. Modern Rome, unburdened by historical entanglements between religion and politics, can serve as a model for new alliances among nations that recognize their shared cultural and historical contexts.

A Neutral Vatican

Since its establishment as a modern state in 1929, the Vatican has adhered to a principle of neutrality in international affairs. This tradition has been solidified by leaders like Pope John Paul II, who condemned the Iraq War and attempted to mediate between Saddam Hussein and the U.S., and Pope Benedict XVI, who criticized the war in Libya. Pope Francis continues this mission, meeting with world leaders—including Erdogan and Modi—and fostering respectful relations with both the West and with China and Russia. As a result, the Vatican has earned a reputation as a reliable intermediary in international relations.

The Papal Peace Plan for Ukraine

Recently, the Vatican released a peace plan for Ukraine that outlines the following steps:

  • Returning forcibly displaced children to their homeland under international oversight.
  • Full mutual exchange of prisoners of war, with a commitment to keep them from future military involvement.
  • Amnesty for individuals convicted of criticizing authorities (especially political prisoners) on both sides, affirming the principle of freedom of expression.
  • Lifting sanctions on relatives of Russian oligarchs who have not directly financed the military actions or engaged in political activities, as a goodwill gesture. These measures are intended to foster an atmosphere of trust conducive to further steps toward peace.

Outlines of a New World Order

Pope Francis proposes establishing a new, independent international forum for resolving global conflicts, where the Vatican could serve as a hub for negotiations. In a world where truly neutral states are dwindling, the Vatican maintains its potential as a mediator. The Holy See’s image is unassociated with any threat of revanchism or militarism, strengthening its role as a neutral party in global peacebuilding.

A Global Project of Unity and Justice

Pope Francis’s peace algorithm offers a path to fair and peaceful coexistence based on cultural values and respect for historical heritage. This approach views compromise as a formula that allows each side to feel victorious. This vision encourages calls to grant Pope Francis a broad international mandate as the principal mediator between conflicting parties in Ukraine. Such a mandate could be granted by the UN Security Council or the General Assembly, signaling the organization’s readiness for reform. The Vatican and the Pope, with no vested interest in this conflict, genuinely seek peace. With an official mandate, Pope Francis could propose effective and fair solutions to stop the bloodshed and restore stability to the region. Expanding his authority would be an essential step toward true and lasting peace.

Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion

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Newsdesk
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Whatsapp Image 2024 11 03 At 16.05.06 B421f49b

KINGNEWSWIRE // Valencia, Spain – Scientology Volunteer Ministers (VMs) have coordinated over 3000 hours of volunteer work so far in Valencia and the applications of volunteers keep growing, while still much more is needed. VMs in Valencia are cleaning streets, houses, garages, delivering food, clothes, and tools, all thanks to the solidarity of the Scientology network in Spain, joined by friends and relatives, and the generous support of the International Association of Scientologists, thanks to whom more volunteers are arriving to contribute in the rescue and rebuilding of “normal life” as much as possible.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion

On October 29, 2024, Spain faced a catastrophic hydrological disaster as a cold drop, or DANA, unleashed torrential rains across the region, particularly devastating upto 65 villages of the province of Valencia and surroundings. This isolated high-level depression, classified as a “mesoscale convective system”, resulted in staggering rainfall totals, with some areas recording over 600 liters per square meter. The AVAMET observatory in Turís (Valencia) registered a staggering 640.8 l/m², while Chiva logged 600.2 l/m², leading to the overflow of rivers and ravines along the Mediterranean coast. The aftermath has been tragic; at least 217 lives have been lost—211 in Valencia, along with casualties in Castilla-La Mancha and Andalusia—while the material damage is expected to be extensive. This event ranks among the worst hydrological disasters in Spain‘s history, reminiscent of previous calamitous events such as those in Vallés and Biescas.

Video of Agencia EFE, broadcasted by Spanish newspaper ABC.

But as the waters raised and the challenges mounted, so too did a profound show of humanity and resilience with thousands and thousands of volunteers. Among the frontline responders that include Red Cross, Caritas, Civil Protection and others, are the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, whose vibrant yellow shirts have become synonymous with hope and support in disaster-stricken areas around the world. These volunteers have mobilized tirelessly, offering essential assistance, logistical support, and emotional solace to those whose lives have been upended.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion

In the face of crisis, the courage of the human spirit becomes a powerful force—and in Valencia (SPAIN), that spirit is shared and strengthened through community efforts, international aid, and dedicated volunteerism.

The Floods of Valencia: Scale of the Disaster

While the very capital seems to be physically untouched by the disaster, residential areas and businesses of circa 65 villages of the province are now unrecognizable, buried under the murky waters that continue to hinder the passing of people and cars. Media reports estimates of over 200 people dead, and thousands disappeared, and thousands more that have been forced to evacuate, many of who are now living in precarious conditions as emergency shelters reach capacity and many new improvised shelters appear thanks to the goodwill of neighboring cities and villages.

For many, the journey to safety has been fraught with obstacles. Families have been separated, elderly residents are stranded, and with roads heavily hindered, some have had no choice but to start pulling out the waters themselves from the garages and underground rooms. Yet, amid these scenes of despair, a concerted effort by local authorities, humanitarian groups, improvised volunteers and Scientology Volunteers Ministers has given the city a glimmer of hope.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers: A History of Service

The Volunteer Ministers program, an outreach initiative by the Church of Scientology, was established in the early 1970s by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. Designed to provide humanitarian relief in areas of crisis, the Volunteer Ministers have served as a bridge of help and solace for decades. Their motto, as established by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard is “Something can be done about it,” and it captures the very essence of their mission: a belief that in the face of adversity, proactive assistance can always offer a path forward.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion

These yellow-shirted volunteers have been present in some of the most challenging disaster scenarios worldwide, from Hurricane Katrina, earthquakes in Haiti, the 2011 Fukushima disaster, and many others, including Turkey, Morroco, Italy, Czeck Republic and many others. Equipped with both specialized training in emergency response and a compassionate ethos, the VMs have gained a reputation as dependable responders. They work in collaboration with other humanitarian groups, adapting their efforts to fit the particular needs of each crisis.

In Valencia, the VMs have been among the first to respond, coordinating their efforts with Civil Protection, local emergency services, and have provided the needed shelter and support to the internationally known Mexican rescue team of “Los Topos.” Their contributions range from distributing essential supplies—food, water, blankets, boots, clothers, heavy machinery and even toys—to providing emotional support for those grappling with the loss of homes, livelihoods, and a sense of security.

Coordinating with “Los Topos”: An International Alliance of Aid

Alongside the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, the arrival of “Los Topos” (the Moles), an elite Mexican rescue team, has bolstered relief efforts. Known for their exceptional skills in urban search and rescue, especially under collapsed buildings and rubble, Los Topos have coordinated with the VMs, regional authorities and rescue workers, to maximize the reach of their support. In Valencia, their expertise gives invaluable hope, especially in evacuating residents trapped in partially submerged structures or reaching isolated communities.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion

The bond between the Volunteer Ministers and Los Topos dates back years, and their shared history of disaster response has allowed them to develop a seamless working relationship. Los Topos, named for their ability to “tunnel” through debris and difficult terrain, are widely recognized for their bravery and commitment in some of the world’s most daunting rescue scenarios. In Valencia, their arrival has brought a renewed sense of hope for those still waiting to be rescued, as well as for families anxiously awaiting news of loved ones.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion

Stories of Resilience and Hope

In the flood-ravaged neighborhoods, survivors speak of the warmth and dedication shown by the Volunteer Ministers.

The VMs have set up coordination hub and storage place plus a relief station to receive and distributed donated materials. They are also helping coordinate spaces for those affected to rest, receive supplies, and find comfort, as well as helping improvised volunteers from around the country and the world, so that they have spaces to sleep. VMs are providing information and networking for families to learn about their options, find temporary shelter, and meet volunteers who lend a compassionate ear. Many are deeply moved by the genuine care and support they receive from the Volunteer Ministers.

“These people gave me hope when I thought there was none left,” shared one of the victims of the flooding. “They didn’t just hand me a blanket and food—they stayed and listened to me. It made all the difference.”

A United Front Against Adversity

The strength of Valencia’s response lies in its people—the local residents and international allies who stand side by side in the face of immense hardship. The Volunteer Ministers and Los Topos exemplify the powerful synergy that can emerge when individuals, communities, and humanitarian groups work together. The volunteers come from diverse backgrounds but share a common purpose: to be there for others, regardless of circumstance.

While Valencia’s road to recovery will be a long one, the support pouring in from all corners of the world is a reminder of our collective humanity. And as the city confronts the daunting task of rebuilding, it does so with the knowledge that it is not alone.

Looking Ahead: Rebuilding with Hope

As mud and water slowly recede, the focus shifts from rescue to rebuilding. The Volunteer Ministers have pledged to stay in Valencia for as long as they are needed, committing not only to immediate disaster relief but also to long-term recovery efforts. Their presence will be instrumental as residents return to salvage their homes and attempt to rebuild their lives.

For now, in the midst of uncertainty, there is hope. It’s a hope carried by each volunteer who extends a hand, each rescuer who pulls someone from danger, and each community member who remains steadfast. The people of Valencia are not facing this disaster alone—they are bolstered by a global network of compassion, resilience, and unwavering support.

New EU Environment Commissioner: Time to Learn Lessons?

By
Robert Johnson
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Dall·e 2024 11 07 13.30.48 A Symbolic Representation Of Environmental Policy Clashing With Reality. An Image Depicting Two Contrasting Worlds On The Left, A Lush Green European
Image Created with the assistance of Chat GPT

Over the past 5 years, the von der Leyen Commission has passed more environmental regulations than any in history. The Green Deal was a triumph of soaring rhetoric and self-satisfaction. But the Regulations themselves were just words on a page – with no more force in the real world than the endless tweets and press releases emanating from MEPs’ offices.

Now, though, the implementation is here. The real world, it turns out, does not share the Green Deal architects’ vision. That huge number you wrote because it made a great headline – it’s not feasible in such a short time in the real world. The granular data requirements you added because they made the EU appear tough – they’re expensive in the real world. 

The real world is where most EU citizens live. Dependent on local and global supply chains. Sensitive to changes in the price of food, energy and materials. Concerned that local and national businesses – that provide good jobs for millions of Europeans – are facing higher bills and more red tape.

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) has now collided with the real world: the implementation deadline was planned for 30th December 2024 but has now been delayed by 12 months. Those in power have finally realized that if EUDR actually does go ahead in December, then chaos will reign. Why?

It’s simple. The regulation is not written with the real world in mind. The EUDR covers commodities largely produced in the developing world: palm oil from Malaysia; coffee from Ethiopia; cocoa from Cote d’Ivoire; rubber from Thailand; soy from Brazil; and so on. The EUDR imposes draconian requirements on small farmers in those countries who produce these commodities. Some of the requirements – like detailed geotargeting of crops; submission of millions of individual supply chain data points – would be very challenging for Western multinationals. EUDR, in its far-sighted ambition – tries to impose these demands on small farmers in Africa or Asia who do not own a smartphone. 

Re-read the list of food products above, coming from the developing world. Imagine a supermarket bill where each of those products has increased in price, or reduced in supply. Almost every single one of the 450 million EU citizens will be negatively impacted. All because of an EU regulation.

Earlier this year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz directly asked Ursula von der Leyen to delay EUDR – for this reason. Twenty of the EU’s Agriculture Ministers have made the same demand. Senior MEPs, including the leading EPP MEP on the Environment Committee, Peter Liese, also backed a delay. 

However – these interventions were late, and this entire situation was avoidable. The EU’s trading partners had been warning about the problems for years. Ministers and trade officials from Malaysia predicted precisely this outcome of chaos and uncertainty, as far back as Spring 2023. No-one in Brussels listened: the hubris of the bureaucrats overrode the real-life experience of the traders, farmers and suppliers from the developing world.

The new Commissioner nominees Jessika Roswall, Wopke Hoekstra and Teresa Ribera now have 12 months to fix the problems. If not, they face the possibility of January 2026 being dominated by supply chain chaos, sharply rising food prices, and restricted supply of core commodities. 

The three new overlapping Commissioners for environment and climate should, one hopes, learn from this farce: listen more to our trading partners. Seek genuine engagement with the private sector inside and outside the EU. Resist the hubris of the EU bubble that thinks that sophisticated global supply chains can simply enact EU press releases with no negative effects on consumers. Will the lessons be learned? We can hope so, yes. But let’s be honest: that hope comes without any real expectation.

Germany Systemic mass-scale religious segregation condoned by the European Union for 10 years

By
Willy Fautre
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Germany Segration

As of 5 October 2024, 512 public tenders submitted by Germany to the EU in the nine first months of the year were accepted and published by the EU Tenders Transparency Portal despite their egregiously discriminatory nature.

Their peculiarity was that they contained a “Bidder’s declaration of protection” against a specific religious group to be mandatorily filled in and signed on a “form 2496” for the bidding to be valid.

One of the 512 tenders concerned “advanced services in preparation for the construction of the future excavation pit shoring for the new center at the Nuremberg Clinic” (Ref. 598098-2024). Another one is about the “supply of electrical energy for Neue Materialien Bayreuth GmbH in 2025 and 2026” (Ref. 637171-2024).  One can wonder what the religious affiliation of the bidders has to do with the EU tenders and why the EU endorses this criterion of exclusion for access to EU tenders instead of rejecting the questionable German applications.

About the magnitude of the issue: over 3173 cases

This systemic segregation violating for 10 years the Directive 2014/24/EU of 16 February 2014 and its magnitude are however well-known as the information about contracts above 140,000 EUR must be and is public.

Statistics about tenders from 2014 to 2024 :  81 in 2014, 156 in 2015, 173 in 2016, 163 in 2017, 215 in 2018, 284 in 2019 294 in 2020, 370 in 2021, 432 in 2022, 493 in 2023 and 512 in 2024. Total: 3173.

These facts and figures were presented at the OSCE Warsaw Human Dimension Conference on 7 October 2024 and uploaded on their website.

The Directive on public procurement provides in its first paragraph that “The award of public contracts by or on behalf of Member States’ authorities has to comply with the principles of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), and in particular (…) equal treatment, non-discrimination, mutual recognition, proportionality and transparency.”

The imposition of faith-related requirements in public tenders is a serious violation of the European Charter on Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights. Such a provision should be removed from the EU tenders without delay or the German submissions should be rejected.

The religious community targeted by Germany in this segregation case is the Church of Scientology which is recognized as a religious or belief community in EU and other countries where such a legal status exists, except in Germany despite quite a number of court decisions.

More action on the ground needed to save civilian lives in Gaza, top UN official tells Security Council

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United Nations News
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More action on the ground needed to save civilian lives in Gaza, top UN official tells Security Council

Sigrid Kaag updated ambassadors on the implementation of resolution 2720, adopted last December, which established her mandate following the brutal 7 October Hamas-led attacks on Israel and the start of hostilities in Gaza.

She was also tasked with establishing a UN mechanism for accelerating the provision of humanitarian relief consignments to the enclave, operationalized and managed by the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS).

Supply routes established

Ms. Kaag said “the 2720 Team” has continuously engaged on access issues, addressed obstacles, and proposed solutions to enable assistance by all aid partners, including the UN agency that assists Palestine refugees, UNRWA, which she called the “backbone” of humanitarian operations in Gaza.

She recalled that 11 months ago, the enclave was largely cut off from most of its supply lines, with all but one access point closed.

Despite the complex situation, her mission has negotiated and strengthened supply lines and systems, as well as additional routes, in efforts to facilitate, accelerate and expedite aid flows in a sustained and transparent manner.

These routes cover supplies from or via Egypt, Jordan, Cyprus, the West Bank and Israel. 

Humanitarian aid goals unmet

However, Ms. Kaag said systems in place today are not a substitute for the political will required to reach civilians in Gaza and respond to their needs.

“Effective humanitarian operations require the right quality, quantity, and a broad range of goods to meet the daily needs of civilians in Gaza. That goal is not being met,” she said.

Additionally, ongoing hostilities across the Strip, the breakdown of law and order, and the looting of supplies are significant impediments to UN efforts to distribute assistance there.

Humanitarians also face denials, delays and lack of safety and security, as well as poor logistical infrastructure.

UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator, Sigrid Kaag, visiting the Nasser Medical complex in Khan Younis, Gaza (file).

Lives at stake

Ms. Kaag said “this continues to hamper relief operations despite recent approvals provided for trucks, satellite phones and other equipment,” and engagement on these issues is ongoing.

She said “commitments and intentions need to be translated into tangible actions on the ground”, warning that “any delay in implementation comes at direct cost of human lives.”

Areas for action

In the meantime, her mission continues to focus on securing access for a diverse range of goods from the humanitarian and commercial sector, highlighting critical areas.

“Modest progress in select areas, such as waste and sewage management, has been made. However, this does not address the totality of the need. For example, cash, prepositioned fuel and hygiene items are urgently needed,” she said.

Furthermore, the scope of humanitarian items allowed entry remains too restricted, she added, while the UN also urgently needs the entry of further vital security communications and tracking equipment.

Implement agreed protocols

Ms. Kaag said a new Joint Coordination Board is now operational but noted that “recent security incidents, including shootings at humanitarian convoys, are unacceptable and demonstrate that agreed protocols and procedures still need comprehensive on-time implementation.”

She also hailed the recent medical evacuation of 251 patients and family members to the United Arab Emirates – the largest from Gaza to date.  Yet over 14,000 patients still require specialized medical treatment outside Gaza, showing that much more has to be done.

Recovery cannot wait

Stressing that “humanitarian assistance is only a temporary pathway to alleviate suffering”, Ms. Kaag upheld that a comprehensive, just and lasting peace can only be realized through a two-State solution between Israelis and Palestinians.

“In this light, the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza should not wait,” she said, emphasizing the need for education, healthcare, housing, in addition to establishing governance and security arrangements.

“The UN’s position is clear,” she continued.  “The Palestinian Authority must resume its full responsibilities in Gaza. Prime Minister (Mohammed) Mustafa’s cabinet has developed comprehensive plans to restore local governance, security and re-establish the rule of law.”

Relatedly, international planning efforts by the UN, the European Union, the World Bank and others are ongoing in support of the Palestinian Authority, she said, and her mission has developed financing options for the international community to consider.

Mechanism up and running

Meanwhile, UNOPS is committed to supporting Ms. Kaag’s mandate, Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva told the Council.

He said the UN mechanism has been running a database covering humanitarian aid consignments into Gaza that has been operational since May and is publicly accessible. 

So far, 229 consignments have requested clearance and 175 have been approved, 101 have been delivered, 17 are pending clearance, and 37 have been rejected. 

This translates into more than 20,000 metric tonnes of humanitarian aid cargo delivered, including food and nutrition, shelter items, water and sanitation (WASH) supplies and medical aid.

Jordan aid corridor

“The consignments were primarily delivered through the Jordan corridor, the direct route from Jordan to Gaza that was formalized and regularized under the mechanism to provide much needed predictability and regularity and to address the backlog challenges that accompanied convoys undergoing multiple inspection and transloading points,” he said.

He explained that humanitarian health consignments delivered via this route pass through a single inspection point in Jordan and a single transloading point in Gaza. Prior to the UN mechanism, there were three inspection points and four transloading points. 

A smaller portion of the consignments was delivered through the Cyprus corridor – “a vital supplementary route for delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza” which “is not intended to replace or divert attention from existing land or sea corridors, but rather to enhance overall capacity.”

Confidence-building and transparency

He added that in response to donor requests, UNOPS stands ready to address current logistical challenges for the Cyprus corridor “by offering an end-to-end solution ensuring the coordinated, efficient and transparent delivery of aid.”

To support the regularization of the corridors under the UN mechanism, UNOPS has deployed 14 international monitors to Cyprus and Jordan who verify the humanitarian nature of each consignment, facilitate approval for the shipments to proceed to Gaza, and track the journey from point of origin until handover to the final consignee in Gaza for onward delivery. 

“This very mechanism fosters confidence building among all and provides transparency, informing all of us that what was sent to Gaza indeed make its way to its final destination,” he said.

Regarding consignments that are not permitted, the UN mechanism always requires a justification.

UNRWA continues to offer support to people in Gaza.

UNRWA continues to offer support to people in Gaza.

Allow more aid

Mr. Moreira da Silva said UNOPS alongside Ms. Kaag’s Office continues to call for more items and consigners to be allowed to enter Gaza.

“Eleven of our international monitors are also ready to deploy inside Gaza, in order to reinforce this important verification and tracking mechanism as an additional enabler of our collective efforts to accelerate and increase the amount of humanitarian aid reaching the civilian population in Gaza,” he said.

‘Vital lifeline’ from Egypt

He then turned to the Egypt corridor, which has served as “a vital lifeline” for delivering aid to Gaza since the conflict erupted.

UNOPS is working closing with the Egyptian authorities to fully integrate the route into the mechanism and a team will be in Cairo this week to finalize the process.

“Once completed, the 2720 mechanism will provide a comprehensive real-time overview of all humanitarian cargo entering to Gaza from every supply route. This will enable better prioritization, tracking and monitoring of relief efforts right up to the point of delivery,” he said.

Supporting all routes

He told the Council that UNOPS has committed to support the full operational capacity of each corridor. 

The Office is procuring 280 trucks for the Jordan route, in addition to constructing 10 additional warehousing spaces for the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization, and establishing two truck holding areas at the King Hussein Bridge border crossing and inspection site.

UNOPS is also securing 38 trucks for use by humanitarians inside Gaza to enable delivery of aid consignments arriving via the different corridors.

“We have procured the necessary armoured vehicles, communications and other security equipment that will enable the operational capacity of the mechanism’s international monitors inside Gaza, the 11 monitors, without exerting pressure on the already limited resources of the rest of the humanitarian community,” he said.

The UNOPS chief thanked Member States for their financial support to the UN mechanism. He underscored that effective delivery of aid at the scale required will not be possible without political will, necessary security and safety guarantees, and an enabling environment. 

 

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85 per cent of journalist killings go unpunished

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United Nations News
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85 per cent of journalist killings go unpunished

The dangers faced by journalists, including risks to their lives, are highlighted each year on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, which falls on 2 November.

This year, the International Day coincides with the biannual UNESCO Director-General’s Report on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, which recorded a 38 per cent increase in the number of journalist killings compared to the previous study.

In his 2024 message for the Day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres pointed out that Gaza has seen the highest number of killings of journalists and media workers in any war in decades and called on governments to take urgent steps to protect journalists, investigate crimes against them and prosecute perpetrators.

TV correspondent Mustafa Al-Bayed, reporting from Gaza.

Journalists in Gaza killed ‘at a level unseen in any conflict in modern times’

The war in Gaza inevitably dominated the 2024 UN International Media Seminar on Peace in the Middle East on Friday, an event that has taken place annually for the past three decades, with the aim of enhancing dialogue and understanding between media practitioners and fostering their contributions in support of a peaceful settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In a statement to the seminar, read out by UN head of global communications, Melissa Fleming, Mr. Guterres noted that journalists in Gaza have been killed “at a level unseen in any conflict in modern times”, adding that the ongoing ban preventing international journalists from Gaza “suffocates the truth even further”.

Below is an excerpt of the comments made by Cheikh Niang, chair of the UN Committee on the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People and the Permanent Representative of Senegal to the United Nations; Guilherme Canela, chief of the section on freedom of expression and safety of journalists at UNESCO, and Mohammad Ali Alnsour, chief of the Middle East and north Africa section at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Cheikh Niang: One year has passed since the events of 7 October 2023, when Palestinian militants attacked Israel, followed by a devastating Israeli response in Gaza.

Since then, access to information has been severely curtailed. Journalists have been killed, newsrooms destroyed, foreign press blocked and communications cut. Israeli forces, as the occupying power, have systematically dismantled Palestinian media infrastructure, silencing voices through restrictions, threats, targeted killings and censorship.

In the past 380 days, over 130 Palestinian journalists have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza. These were voices reporting on possible war crimes, silenced before their stories could be fully told.

Journalists in Gaza continue to report on the humanitarian crisis, often at great personal risk, providing the world with an accurate picture of the unfolding tragedy. We honour their courage and recognise that their loss silences their stories and severely limits the public’s access to the truth.

Palestinian journalist Mohammad Awad reporting from the field. (file)

Palestinian journalist Mohammad Awad reporting from the field. (file)

Guilherme Canela: The UNESCO Director-General’s Report on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity has, for many years, been showing a decrease in the number of journalists killed in conflicts compared with the journalists killed in other situations.

This is not true for this report. Since the report we issued in 2017, it was completely changed because of the situation in Gaza. Journalists were killed because they were telling a story, a story that is relevant for each one of us and of each citizen.

It is very scary to see the level of mistrust that there is against media all over the world and against journalists. This mistrust is happening because of a narrative of political leaders, of religious leaders, of celebrities against journalists and against journalism as a foundational pillar of our democratic values and the protection of human rights.

Mohammad Ali Alnsour: The media has a very important role in starting the accountability process, starting with documenting the crimes and violations and then into investigation and then accountability and eventually to achieve peace. Unfortunately, this has not been the case in the occupied Palestinian territories for four decades now. The issue of access also is not limited to the media and journalists.

Under international humanitarian law, the occupier, Israel, has the obligation to protect civilians, including journalists. We are hearing from very senior politicians and leaders that it is okay to kill civilians in order to achieve insignificant military objectives during that process, which is a violation of proportionality, principle and also military need.

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

Every two years, the awareness-raising campaign for the commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists coincides with the findings of the report outlining the current state of global and regional impunity.

UNESCO is concerned that impunity damages whole societies by covering up serious human rights abuses, corruption and crime. To uphold the rule of law, governments, civil society, the media and everyone concerned are being asked to join in the global efforts to end impunity.

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Omar Harfouch: A Virtuoso Championing Peace Through Music

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Omar Harfouch, the Lebanese-born pianist and composer, continues to captivate audiences with his compelling performances and dedication to fostering global unity through music. With his remarkable blend of talent, charisma, and advocacy for peace, Harfouch remains an influential figure in the world of music and beyond. His latest series of concerts, highlighted by his performance of the “Concerto for Peace,” have not only showcased his musical genius but also reinforced his commitment to inspiring dialogue and harmony.

Recent Performances and Global Impact

Harfouch’s latest concert series, anchored by his original “Concerto for Peace,” has been a testament to his vision for using music as a bridge between cultures and communities. On September 18, 2024, he took to the stage at the prestigious Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris, accompanied by the Béziers Méditerranée Symphony Orchestra under the baton of conductor Mathieu Bonnin. This exclusive performance, attended by a select audience, was entirely curated and funded by Harfouch, showcasing his dedication to bringing music to the world on his own terms (Le Monde).

Only days later, on September 20, 2024, Harfouch presented this powerful concerto at the United Nations in Geneva during the World Music Conference, coinciding with World Peace Day. This performance underlined Harfouch’s belief in music’s ability to transcend political and social boundaries, resonating with global leaders and music enthusiasts alike (Rolling Stone UK).

Earlier in the year, Harfouch introduced this influential piece at the Théâtre Municipal de Béziers on March 6, 2024. Accompanied by celebrated violinist Anne Gravoin and the Béziers Méditerranée Symphony Orchestra, the performance received warm acclaim. Harfouch shared that the piece was born from a deep desire to unite different political and religious communities in a shared moment of reflection and solidarity (Le Monde).

A Storied Journey from Talent to Advocacy

Omar Harfouch’s trajectory as a musician and public figure is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Tripoli, Lebanon, on April 20, 1969, he showed a strong affinity for music from an early age. His passion took him to the Soviet Union, where he honed his skills in piano while also studying diplomacy. His drive for excellence and cultural contributions extended beyond music as he co-founded the media group Supernova in Ukraine, encompassing Radio Supernova and the magazine Paparazzi (Omar Harfouch Official Site).

In France, Harfouch’s popularity grew, fueled by his appearances on television and his dynamic presence in the media. Despite the variety of avenues he has explored throughout his career—from reality TV to his extensive work in media—his focus has remained steadfast on enriching cultural dialogues and advocating for positive change. Through his music, Harfouch channels this passion for peace, creating compositions that not only entertain but also convey powerful messages of unity and hope.

The “Concerto for Peace”: A Testament to Hope

The “Concerto for Peace” stands as a symbol of Harfouch’s dedication to leveraging art for social good. It is more than just a musical performance; it is a call for harmony that transcends borders and invites audiences to reflect on their shared humanity. His performances of this work, particularly in such revered venues and significant settings as Paris and the United Nations, emphasize his role as both a musician and a messenger of peace (Rolling Stone UK).

Harfouch’s commitment to using his influence and talent to bridge divides reflects his belief in the transformative power of music. His career, marked by multifaceted achievements and a relentless pursuit of impactful expression, continues to inspire those who seek unity in a complex world. Through his art, Harfouch remains a shining example of how culture and creativity can inspire change and promote a shared vision for a better tomorrow (Le Monde, Omar Harfouch Official Site).

Bulgaria with the largest growth of immigrants in Europe

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Bulgaria With The Largest Growth Of Immigrants In Europe

South Korea has the largest increase in the number of immigrants in the world, and Bulgaria in Europe.

This is according to a study by William Russell, who have compiled a ranking of the 10 countries with the largest increase in immigrants since 1990.

According to the data, the number of immigrants in South Korea grew from 43,000 in 1990 to more than 1.7 million in 2020, an increase of 3,896%.

Colombia has the second highest increase in the number of immigrants, from just 104,000 in 1990 to 1.9 million people in 2020, representing a growth of 1,727%.

South America is increasingly desirable for immigrants, and Chile is third on the list. In 1990, only 104,000 foreigners resided in the country, and in 2020 – 1.6 million, which represents an increase of 1430%.

Bulgaria is fourth overall and first in Europe thanks to a jump in the number of immigrants from 21,000 in 1990 to 184,000 in 2020 (757%).

Spain (5th place) also saw a significant increase in the number of immigrants – from 821,000 in 1990 to 6.8 million in 2020 (732%).

From William Russell comments that South Korea may not be the country with the most immigrants in the world, but if you compare the latest figures with those from 1990, South Korea has seen more change than any other country, with in the past 30 years, the number of immigrants has increased by more than 3,800 percent.

Illustrative Photo by Leena : https://www.pexels.com/photo/passengers-in-harbor-12963951/

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