France has no intention of announcing a restriction on cars with Russian registration, TASS reported.
There is currently no change in French law.
This was done by the Baltic states of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia.
They were followed by Finland, and then by Poland, as reported by the Polish news agency PAP, as the words of the Minister of the Interior, Mariusz Kaminski, as the ban is an additional part of the sanctions imposed on Russia and its citizens in connection with the war in Ukraine. The rule applies regardless of whether the owner is a citizen of the country.
Russia rejected these decisions. The government is trying to hold a dialogue for a solution.
France has no intention of introducing such a change.
Female circumcision is the partial or total removal of the external genitalia without the medical need to do so
About 200 million girls and women now living on planet Earth have undergone the extremely painful procedure of female circumcision, also called infibulation.
Female circumcision is the partial or total removal of the external genitalia without the medical need to do so. This operation is commonly called “female genital mutilation” and “Female Genital Mutilation” (FGM).
The essence of the operation is that the labia majora is sutured in such a way that only a tiny hole remains, through which it is difficult for urine and menstrual blood to pass.
In this case, the clitoris and outer labia are often completely amputated, and the inner labia partially. Due to the deep incision made during the operation, a noticeable scar is formed after healing, which actually completely covers the vulva.
Infibulation is said to be the ideal way to preserve a girl’s virginity until marriage, but it requires another operation after marriageable age to allow her to have sex.
Some peoples have a custom according to which on the wedding night the husband takes a knife and cuts his wife’s crotch with it, and only then has intercourse with her. After conception, it is sutured again.
When it is time for the woman to give birth, the vaginal area is cut open again to allow the baby to come out, and after the birth it is stitched back up.
Usually, such interventions are extremely painful for women. Since they are all performed without anesthesia, women in labor lose consciousness from pain.
Death from complications is not uncommon. Instruments are not disinfected, and hence the risk of tetanus and other infections increases. Sometimes this barbarism leads to infertility.
The reasons for performing FGM vary by region, change over time and are a combination of sociocultural factors specific to families and communities.
Usually, this practice is justified by the following most common reasons:
• In areas where such a practice is part of the customs, incentives for its continuation are social pressure and fear of public rejection. In some communities female genital mutilation is almost mandatory and its necessity is not contested
• These surgeries are often considered a necessary part of a girl’s upbringing and a way to prepare her for adulthood and marriage.
• Often the motivations for performing these operations are views on proper sexual behavior. The purpose of the operations is to ensure the preservation of virginity before marriage.
• In many communities, the practice of female genital mutilation is believed to help suppress libido and thus help them resist extramarital sex.
• The practice of female genital mutilation is associated with cultural ideals of femininity and modesty in which girls are clean and beautiful.
• Although religious texts do not speak of such practices, those who perform such operations often believe that religion supports the practice.
In most communities, this practice is considered a cultural tradition, which is often used as an argument for its continuation.
FGM has no health benefits and can lead to serious, long-term complications and even death. Immediate health risks include haemorrhage, shock, infection, HIV transmission, urine retention and severe pain.
Illustrative Photo by Follow Alice: https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-woman-looking-on-persons-bracelet-667203/
The seminar on the “European Media Freedom Act and Digital Services Act: protecting media freedom in a safe online world” is organised in cooperation with the EuropeanNewsRoom.
Sabine Verheyen (EPP, DE), Chair of the Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) and rapporteur on the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), will present the Culture Committee’s draft report, due to be confirmed by Parliament during the 2-5 October 2023 plenary session, ahead of talks with Council.
Christel Schaldemose (S&D, DK), member of the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) and rapporteur on the Digital Services Act (DSA) will explain the new obligations under this legislation that has recently entered into force for large platforms.
The MEPs will also clarify how the two bills complement each other to promote media freedom, democratic participation, and curb disinformation.
WHEN: Tuesday, 26 September at 10:15 CEST
WHERE: Online via Interactio and in person in the European Parliament Anna Politkovskaya press conference room (SPAAK 0A50) in Brussels
Interpretation will be available in EN, DE, FR and DK.
The UN’s Special Rapporteur for Russia, Mariana Katzarova, sounded the alarm on what she says is a pattern of suppression of civil and political rights there.
Addressing the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Ms. Katzarova voiced grave concerns over mass arbitrary arrests and the “persistent use of torture and ill-treatment.”
Citing almost 200 sources from both in and outside the country, the UN-appointed expert also highlighted the lack of judicial independence and right to a fair trial.
“The large amount of information shared with me is indicative of the magnitude of the human rights challenges facing Russian society today,” she said.
Ms. Katzarova said that mass arbitrary arrests, detentions and harassment were recorded for “anyone speaking out against Russia’s war on Ukraine or daring to criticize the government’s actions.”
But the fraying of basic rights did not begin in February last year, rather, “the roots of this repression go back much further.”
‘Incremental and calculated’
“The incremental and calculated restrictions on human rights in Russia over the past two decades have culminated in the current state policy of criminalising any actual or perceived dissent.”
Over 20,000 people were detained between February 2022 and June 2023 for participating in ‘largely peaceful’ anti-war protests.
Additionally, Ms. Katzarova received reports of torture and ill-treatment in detention, including sexual violence and rape, by law enforcement officials targeting anti-war protesters.
Russian authorities have also used propaganda and rhetoric to incite hatred and violence against Ukrainians, the report claims, with 600 criminal lawsuits were initiated against so-called “anti-war activity.
Ms. Katzarova added that children in schools face threats and serious consequences for “even drawing an anti-war picture.”
Civil society
The situation in Russia has signalled an “effective closure of the civic space, silencing of public dissent and independent media”, Ms. Katzarova emphasised, a thought echoed by many Member States during the Council session.
For example, changes to the law on so-called foreign agents or ‘undesirable organisations’ means that independent voices such as human rights defenders and independent media outlets, are now being heavily restricted.
“The often-violent enforcement of these laws has resulted in a systematic crackdown on civil society organizations,” Ms. Katzarova said, referencing the scrutiny, detention and sometimes persecution of the now “stigmatised”, independent groups – many who are forced into exile or prison.
Russian push back
Joined by many Member States, the UN expert urged Russia to undertake “comprehensive human rights reforms” to address the “damage of the past two decades.”
The Russian Government has not accepted the mandate of the report and denied the independent expert access to the country. Russia’s were represented at the Human Rights council in Geneva during the report’s presentation but did not respond.
Addressing the Geneva forum, Ms. Katzarova called on Russia to “reconsider its approach” towards her mandate – a sentiment echoed by many Member States present.
This is the first time in its history that the Council has authorised a rights expert to investigate human rights violations within the borders of one of the permanent members of the UN Security Council.
Post-traumatic stress and anxiety has become a daily challenge for thousands of Libyans who survived Storm Daniel nearly two weeks ago, UN humanitarians warned on Thursday.
The head of the UN agency that assists Palestine refugees across the Middle East, UNRWA, on Thursday appealed for consistent and sustainable financing to keep its operations running and avert chronic shortfalls.
Despite a significant decrease in fighting since last year’s UN-brokered truce, over 4.3 million people remain displaced across the country. Most do not feel safe enough to return home anytime soon and plan to remain in the areas they have settled in for the foreseeable future.
Many are dispersed across hundreds of displacement camps in underdeveloped areas, mainly along the frontlines. Others have sheltered in urban areas or among host communities where social services are more readily available, yet poverty is rife.
In the long term, concrete, durable solutions for displaced communities who have settled in new areas, likely for the long haul, is crucial, according to the UN International Organization for Migration’s (IOM).
It adds that significant investments must be made to allow them to continue this lifesaving work and to promote a more sustainable future and long-term recovery through revitalizing agriculture, education, water systems, and other infrastructure.
water systems, and other infrastructure.
A migrant rests at a clinic in northern Yemen after a long and exhausting journey.
Trafficking crisis
Migrants remain some of those most vulnerable to the effects of the crisis. The maritime route migrants take from the Horn of Africa to Yemen is the second busiest in the world.
According to the IOM displacement tracking matrix, an estimated 90,000 migrants – mostly Ethiopian – have arrived on Yemen’s shores in 2023 so far, in the hopes of reaching Saudi Arabia.
Tens of thousands have become stranded. They have traveled too far and gone too deep in debt to turn around, but know the journey ahead is too deadly or costly to continue, according to IOM, whose staff hears daily accounts from migrants of exploitation at the hands of traffickers and grave abuse on their journeys.
A young migrant looks out to see after arriving in Yemen from Djibouti.
Slavery, torture, extortion
The migrants are often promised good jobs and decent living conditions and do not anticipate the challenges they will face. Instead, thousands of migrants are sold into sexual slavery, tortured on video while their families are extorted, or forced to work for months without pay on farms, according to IOM.
The situation has become a trafficking crisis of extraordinary proportions, the UN agency warned. Many also struggle to access essential public services, like health care, shelter, sanitation facilities, and food while also experiencing stigma and discrimination.
Humanitarians mobilized along the eastern corridor migration route are striving to ensure assistance is available to people on the move and that those who wish to return home can do so safely and voluntarily. But, the demand for these services continues to outweigh the resources available to respond to all migrants in need.
More meaningful efforts from world leaders to restore the rights of and end violence toward people on the move in Yemen – regardless of background or migration status – must also be made, the UN agency said.
IOM is providing services to patients at a health centre on the west coast of Yemen.
Yemenis welcome newcomers
Confronted with these harsh realities, it is Yemeni community members who often go out of their way to help newcomers. Thousands of Yemenis work for humanitarian agencies in dangerous areas. Some have moved far from their homes to lend a hand to communities in need across the country.
Host communities, still reeling from years of war, have stepped up to support and welcome those in dire need.
Yemeni doctors provide relief to people suffering from ailments on their journeys, engineers build extensive water networks in arid lands, community leaders help mitigate conflict over dwindling resources, and teachers spread knowledge to children whose education has been compromised by war.
The realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) depends on supporting these unsung heroes to make concrete contributions to development and peace in countries in crisis.
Bruges is a picturesque city located in the Flemish region of Belgium. Known for its romantic canals and well-preserved medieval architecture, Bruges is a must-visit destination for food lovers. With an abundance of artisan chocolate shops, traditional breweries and fresh produce markets, this city offers a unique culinary experience.
When you visit Bruges, it is impossible not to succumb to the delights of chocolate. The city is full of chocolate factories, some dating back centuries. Master chocolatiers use traditional techniques to create edible works of art. From delicate pralines to melting truffles, there is something for everyone. Additionally, many shops offer chocolate-making demonstrations, allowing visitors to see the process of creating their favorite treats.
But Bruges is not just about chocolate. The city is also renowned for its Flemish cuisine, which highlights fresh, quality ingredients. Traditional dishes such as mussels and fries, stoemp (a dish of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables) and waterzooi (a chicken or fish stew) are must-try. Local restaurants also serve innovative dishes that combine Belgian cuisine with international influences.
Beer lovers will also find what they are looking for in Bruges. Belgium is famous for its craft beer, and the city has many breweries where you can taste a wide variety of Belgian beers. Some breweries even offer guided tours to learn about the brewing process and taste different types of beers. The city’s cafes and bars also offer a cozy atmosphere for enjoying a beer while admiring the picturesque canals of Bruges.
In addition to its culinary delights, Bruges is also a charming city to explore. The canals that cross the city have earned it the nickname “Venice of the North”. A boat trip along the canals is an ideal way to discover the cobbled streets and medieval houses that line the banks. Visitors can also stroll through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire magnificent buildings such as the Bruges Belfry and the Church of Our Lady.
For art lovers, Bruges is also home to numerous museums and galleries. The Groeninge Museum is famous for its collection of Flemish art, while the Memling Museum displays the works of the famous painter Hans Memling. History buffs can visit the Historium museum, which offers an immersive experience tracing the history of Bruges in the Middle Ages.
Finally, foodies cannot leave Bruges without visiting the Friday market, which offers a variety of fresh and local products. From delicious cheeses to fresh fruits and vegetables, the market is a food lover’s paradise. Fish stalls also offer fresh seafood, such as gray shrimp, a local specialty. Visitors can buy fresh produce to prepare a delicious meal when they return home or simply enjoy it on site.
In conclusion, Bruges is a gourmet destination that will delight lovers of chocolate, beer and Flemish cuisine. With its romantic canals and medieval architecture, the city also offers an enchanting setting for strolling and discovering its rich cultural heritage. Whether you are a gourmet or simply in search of culinary pleasures, Bruges is a city not to be missed.
Civilians continuing paying a heavy price as the “senseless violence” between rival militaries continues in Sudan, the UN’s political affairs chief said on Wednesday.
Antwerp, a dynamic port city: between commerce and history
Located in northern Belgium, Antwerp is a dynamic port city that has played a major role in European trade for centuries. Its rich history and strategic geographical position make it a must-see for history and culture lovers.
Antwerp’s history dates back to Roman times, when the city was an important trading center. During the Middle Ages, it became the main trading port in Western Europe, attracting merchants from all over the world. The city enjoyed a period of prosperity in the 16th century, when it was the economic and cultural capital of the Spanish Netherlands.
The port of Antwerp played a crucial role in the development of the city. With its position on the Scheldt estuary, it was the departure point for merchant ships heading to Northern and Eastern Europe. Today, the Port of Antwerp is one of the largest ports in the world, with significant maritime traffic and modern facilities.
In addition to its economic importance, Antwerp is also a city rich in history and culture. The historic center of Antwerp is a true architectural gem, with buildings dating from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its impressive spire, is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture. The Vieux Port district is also a place not to be missed, with its cobbled streets and historic houses.
Antwerp is also known for its art. In the 16th century, the town was an important center of Flemish painting, with famous artists such as Rubens and Van Dyck. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts houses an exceptional collection of Flemish paintings, ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Art lovers can also visit Rubens House, the former residence of the famous painter.
In addition to its historical and artistic heritage, Antwerp is a dynamic and modern city. The city is known for its fashion and design, with many internationally renowned designers having their studios in Antwerp. The Fashion District is a favorite spot for shopping enthusiasts, with designer boutiques and luxury stores.
Antwerp is also a culturally vibrant city. Throughout the year, the city hosts numerous events and festivals, such as the Antwerp Fashion Festival and the Jazz Festival. The people of Antwerp are also known for their friendliness and joie de vivre, which makes the city a pleasant place to visit.
In conclusion, Antwerp is a dynamic port city that combines commerce and history. Its rich past makes it a fascinating place for history lovers, while its modernity and cultural life make it an attractive destination for travelers. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, fashion or just exploring a vibrant city, Antwerp has a lot to offer.
