The political crisis in Niger has created uncertainty for scores of vulnerable displaced people, with restrictions on humanitarian operations limiting aid and protection, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said on Tuesday.
Niger spiralling into ‘protection crisis’ following takeover: UNHCR
First Person: Caught in the crossfire in Ukraine
Ugochi Daniels, Deputy Director General for Operations with the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM), vividly describes what it was like spending a week in Ukraine and Moldova, meeting some of those most affected by Russia’s ongoing full-scale invasion.
UN expert sounds alarm over ‘contemporary forms of slavery’ in Canada
Tomoya Obokata, the Human Rights Council-appointed Special Rapporteur on the global scourge of modern slavery issued his statement at the end of a 14-day visit.
He called on the Canadian Government to intensify its efforts to safeguard workers’ rights and offer a clear pathway to permanent residency for all migrants.
Migrant workers at risk
“I am deeply disturbed by the accounts of exploitation and abuse shared with me by migrant workers,” he said
“Employer-specific work permit regimes, including certain Temporary Foreign Worker Programmes, make migrant workers vulnerable to contemporary forms of slavery, as they cannot report abuses without fear of deportation,” Obokata said.
He acknowledged recent policies enacted to promote human rights across the business sector such as the creation of a Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE) and other codes of conduct.
But he emphasized the need to regularize the status of foreign migrant workers, citing their valuable skills the bring to the economy.
“I urge the Government to bring forward legislation requiring Canadian companies to implement mandatory human rights due diligence, and expand the independence, powers, and mandate of the CORE,” he said.
Trauma twice over
While visiting, Mr. Obokata noted that the communities at the highest risk of contemporary slavery and exploitation were those already experiencing structural discrimination and violence.
This included individuals with precarious migrant status, Indigenous Peoples, those with disabilities, individuals of African descent, former prisoners, and the homeless.
He drew a line between Canada’s colonial history and the disproportionate effect of contemporary forms of slavery on Indigenous Peoples, such as First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, who have reported instances of unresponsiveness from law enforcement over the issue.
“I am extremely concerned by the extent to which Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people go missing or are murdered, often as a result of being trafficked for forced labour or sexual exploitation,” Mr. Obokata said.
He said they were reportedly targeted by traffickers when traveling to seek employment or services.
Legal challenges and solutions
Canada’s efforts to address slavery within domestic frameworks have improved. However, the independent expert said he had witnessed a lack of trauma-informed personnel and human rights-centered approaches within law enforcement and the judicial system.
“Victims and survivors are forced to relive their trauma in their interactions with law enforcement and the court systems, and the outcome of legal proceedings often fails to provide adequate compensation,” he said.
He said there was not enough consultation with survivors over policymaking and insufficient protections and remedies for victims.
“I am also seriously concerned about the misuse of anti-trafficking legislation to target sex workers, which seriously impacts their human rights,” said Obokata. “Full decriminalization of sex work is necessary to prevent further abuses.”
Special Rapporteurs and other UN experts are not UN staff and are independent from any government or organisation. They serve in their individual capacity and receive no salary for their work.
‘Not the time to forget’ Central African Republic
Attacks by armed groups against security forces in the Central African Republic (CAR), combined with increased food and fuel prices and an influx of refugees from Sudan, have aggravated an already fragile humanitarian situation there UN officials said on Tuesday.
The Dance of Religion and Technology, Unveiling Scientology’s Unique Intersection at the 20th Annual EASR Conference
VILNIUS, LITHUANIA, September 7, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ — In today’s ever-evolving landscape of religion and technology, the traditional notion of conflict between the two is being challenged by a more nuanced perspective, and Scientology, according to scholars, shows to be a definite example of this. How is the relationship between religion and technology?
Among the many conferences that are being held this week in Vilnius with over 400 presentations by experts from all over Europe and around the world, there was one panel with a focus on Scientology as an intriguing case study. This exploration took place within the context of the 20th Annual Conference of the European Association for the Study of Religions (EASR) which was hosted by both the Lithuanian Society for the Study of Religion and Vilnius University, where experts discussed and challenged each other about how religion, technology and society intersect.
The Framework of the EASR Conference
The EASR Conference held in 2023 played a role as a platform for scholars interested in aspects concerning religion and technology. Organized jointly by both the Lithuanian Society for the Study of Religion and Vilnius University this conference aimed to shed light on an overlooked theme – exploring how religion intersects with technology. It called for research not only into historical interactions but also, into our rapidly changing modern world where religions and religious movements have seamlessly integrated themselves into the technological and digital spaces.
“In this era, the beliefs and practices of religions have an impact, on public opinion and must therefore be properly understood, so that this impact is a positive one”, said Ivan Arjona, Scientology representative to the European institutions and the United Nations who that the opportunity to participate in this annual conference “and therefore this type conference deserves the attention and support of the authorities as well as all the academia”.
The Unique Intersection of Scientology
Among the circa 100 panels with around 400 presentations, there was a panel discussion specifically focused on “Religion as Technology and Technology as Religion; Scientology.” Experts came together to analyze the position that Scientology holds within this relationship.
This panel was convened by Prof Massimo Introvigne, founder of the renowned Center for Studies on New Religions, who plays a pivotal role in examining new religions and who has researched and written extensively on Scientology.
The first presenter was Attila Miklovicz, a PhD student specializing in philosophy of religion studies and the University of Pécs, Hungary, who provided insights into how Scientology’s connection to technology goes beyond academia and resonates with the public. He highlighted how Scientology has evolved from its initially not viewed as religious methodology, Dianetics, to growing into a recognized religion, with philosophical and technological aspects. Miklovicz explained and demonstrated how Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, through the application of scientific and engineering approaches to life and philosophy, the Dianetics methodology transformed into what experts, including the late Frank Flinn, call a technological religion.
The panel featured a diverse group of experts, each offering a unique perspective on the intersection of Scientology, religion, and technology, and among them was Prof Donald Westbrook, who has taught at prestigious institutions like UT Austin and UCLA, and who holds a PhD from Claremont Graduate University and MLIS from San Jose State University. And another expert who provided an approach was Rosita Soryte, the co-founder and President of ORLIR (the International Observatory of Religious Liberty of Refugees), who brought a unique perspective to the panel from her background in international relations.
In conclusion, the 20th Annual Conference of the European Association for the Study of Religions provided a platform for scholars to delve into the relationship, between religion and technology. “As we navigate through the changing landscape of religion and technology it becomes clear that the line separating these two realms is not fixed but rather flexible. The example of Scientology provides a captivating demonstration of it. The EASR conferences have always been extremely useful in bringing knowledge about religion to all through its members all over the continent “we congratulate them for this”, concluded Arjona.
UNICEF urges support for children, as wildfires rage across Greece
The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Wednesday called for urgent assistance for children caught up in wildfires in Greece, considered to be the worst Europe has seen since the turn of the century.
Accountability key to Sri Lanka’s future: UN rights chief
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, stressed the urgency of addressing these challenges if the country is to move forward, recalling the 2022 anti-Government protests demanding a fairer and more inclusive society.
“But the potential for a historic transformation that would address long-standing challenges is far from being realized.”
The UN rights chief’s message coincides with the launch of a new report documenting the country’s human rights situation. It outlines the challenges and opportunities to address them, in the wake of the 2022 economic crisis.
Families search for truth
Although the brutal decades-long civil war ended more than 14 years ago, tens of thousands of victims and their families in Sri Lanka still seek truth and justice.
While the Government proposed a new truth-seeking mechanism, meaningful and transparent consultations with victims and civil society are essential for the success of any transitional justice process, OHCHR said.
This includes putting an end to all forms of harassment and unlawful surveillance, and supporting initiatives to acknowledge and memorialize victims’ experiences.
“Truth-seeking alone will not suffice. It must also be accompanied by a clear commitment to accountability and the political will to implement far-reaching change,” Mr. Türk said.
Concerns over proposed laws
The report raises concerns over proposed new laws, such as the Anti-Terrorism Bill before parliament and legislation to regulate broadcasting.
It also highlights the need for comprehensive security sector reform, including reduced military spending and a cut in military personnel in areas affected by armed conflict.
The report also calls on the authorities to accelerate investigations and prosecutions into emblematic cases of human rights violations, as well as the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings, which claimed 269 lives and injured over 500.
In July 2022, autorickshaws wait in a long queue at a Sri Lankan fuel station, amidst a severe economic crisis.
Economic crisis
The report summarizes the impact of the 2022 economic crisis on the human rights and well-being of Sri Lankans.
The crisis resulted in severe shortages in fuel, electricity, food, medicines, and other essential items. While some stabilization occurred in 2023, many experienced a sharp decline in living standards, and the country still grapples with a heavy debt burden.
Poverty has almost doubled – from 13 per cent in 2021 to 25 per cent in 2022, according to World Bank estimates, and it is projected to further rise to 27.4 per cent this year, and remain over 25 per cent for the next few years.
Women have borne a “distinct impact” post-crisis, as many are primarily engaged in informal sectors of the economy and face limited access to social protection, said OHCHR.
Food and education
Food insecurity and access to health and education also remain major concerns.
Across the country, about 37 per cent of households faced acute food insecurity in November 2022, leading to a significant number of families buying cheaper less nutritious food and sometimes skipping meals altogether, leading to fears of rising malnutrition among children.
Mental health has also been affected as people face multiple stresses due to price increases, scarcity and loss of income.
Access to education is also at risk, amid rising truancy due to competing economic needs, and higher transport and food costs.
Children from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds and girls are particularly vulnerable, OHCHR noted.
Recommendations
The report outlines a series of recommendations, including a call on the Government to guarantee people’s economic and social rights, tackle corruption and create an enabling environment for a successful and sustainable transitional justice process.
It also urges increased women’s participation in political life and decision-making, as well as ensuring free and fair elections at all levels of government.
The report also calls on the international community to support effective and meaningful transitional justice processes, in compliance with international norms, and targeted sanctions against those credibly alleged to have perpetrated gross human rights violations.
Explore Tournai: between majestic cathedral and picturesque streets
Explore Tournai: between majestic cathedral and picturesque streets
Located in the province of Hainaut, Belgium, Tournai is a city full of charm which is full of historical and architectural treasures. With its majestic cathedral and picturesque streets, Tournai is an ideal destination for history and culture lovers.
The Notre-Dame de Tournai cathedral, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is undoubtedly one of the city’s jewels. Built in the 12th century, this magnificent Gothic cathedral is famous for its five towers and richly ornate façade. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning stained glass windows, detailed carvings, and ancient frescoes that tell the story of the area. The cathedral is also known for housing the famous Processional Carpet, an exceptional medieval tapestry that depicts the life of Christ.
Walking through the picturesque streets of Tournai, you discover a real treasure of architecture and history. The Grand-Place, with its colorful houses and lively cafés, is a great place to relax and observe the daily life of the locals. Not far from there, the rue des Jésuites is a real journey through time with its 17th century houses and stone facades. Architecture enthusiasts should not fail to visit the Maison Tournaisienne, a fine example of Renaissance architecture, which now houses the town’s archeology museum.
The city of Tournai is also known for its world-famous museums. The Museum of Fine Arts, located in a former 18th century hospice, houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and works of art ranging from the Middle Ages to the contemporary era. History buffs can visit the Natural History and Archeology Museum, which features local artifacts dating back to Roman times.
For those who wish to discover the surrounding nature, Tournai offers many green spaces and parks. The Esplanade Park, located near the cathedral, is an ideal place for a walk or a picnic with the family. The gardens of the Palais des Beaux-Arts, with their fountains and sculptures, are a real haven of peace in the heart of the city.
Tournai is also famous for its gastronomy. Fans of Belgian cuisine will not fail to taste the famous mussels and fries, accompanied by a local beer. The town’s restaurants also offer refined cuisine based on local products, such as Tournai cheese and farm snails.
The city of Tournai is easily accessible by train from Brussels and Lille, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Once there, it is possible to get around easily on foot or by bike, thanks to the many cycle paths in the city.
In conclusion, Tournai is a city that will seduce lovers of history, architecture and culture. Between its majestic cathedral and its picturesque streets, Tournai offers a unique blend of heritage and charm. Whether for a cultural visit or a nature getaway, Tournai will seduce you with its beauty and authenticity.
Originally published at Almouwatin.com
200,000 children at risk of starvation in Mali, warn UN agencies
A nexus of protracted armed conflict, internal displacement and limited humanitarian access threatens to plunge nearly one million children under the age of five into acute malnutrition by the end of this year – with at least 200,000 at risk of dying of hunger if life-saving aid fails to reach them, UN agencies said on Friday.
OECD Survey – EU needs a deeper Single Market and to accelerate emissions reduction to growth
OECD Survey – The latest survey looks at how European economies are reacting to the negative external shocks as well as the challenges facing Europe moving forward.
The European economic recovery has been disrupted by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, which has driven energy and food prices higher and curbed the post-pandemic rebound. While co-ordinated and timely policy action helped avoid a severe downturn, the near-term outlook remains clouded by uncertainty, according to a new OECD report.
The latest OECD Economic Survey of the European Union and the euro area looks at how European economies are reacting to the negative external shocks as well as the challenges facing Europe moving forward. The Survey projects growth will pick up gradually, from 0.9% in 2023 to 1.5% in 2024, with inflation expected to decrease to 5.8% in 2023 and 3.2% in 2024, but to remain above the European Central Bank’s 2% target.
Financial Vulnerabilities
Given broad-based and persistent inflation, monetary and fiscal policy need to act in synergy to durably reduce inflationary pressures, according to the Survey. Driving down inflation will require a continuation of restrictive monetary policy, as well as greater efforts to ensure that fiscal policy becomes better targeted and more sustainable.
The Survey recognises that financial vulnerabilities are significant, especially in countries with high levels of private debt and a high share of variable mortgages. The authorities should use macroprudential policies and other targeted instruments to address financial sector risks, as needed. Fiscal sustainability should be grounded in well-prioritised, more efficient public spending and underpinned by improved economic governance, notably stronger compliance with fiscal rules. These should refocus on debt sustainability and multiannual expenditure plans to ensure a more countercyclical fiscal policy and a downward path to more prudent debt levels.
Stronger Single Market
The OECD Survey says that a stronger and deeper Single Market can help Europe boost growth and innovation while fostering structural change. Priorities should include renewed efforts to ensure a level playing field, through a consistent and evenly applied state aid framework, as well as a re-direction of EU resources towards support for green R&D, innovation and early-stage support. Further harmonisation of national regulations and their alignment with EU rules for digital services, the circular economy and building codes is needed, alongside continued co-ordination of national efforts to fight corruption and fraud.
Accelerating the Climate Transition
Achieving climate change objectives – notably the net-zero target by 2050 – will require an acceleration of emission reductions. More action is needed across all sectors, but particularly in sectors not covered by emission trading, notably agriculture, buildings and transport. Reducing emissions in these sectors will rely on regulatory measures and a gradual alignment and raising of carbon prices.
An important element of the green transition is affordable and secure energy, which requires more integrated electricity markets. Deeper capital markets could support the development of new clean technologies, while improving labour mobility and skills will help to reduce transition costs.
See an Overview of the OECD Survey with key findings and charts (this link can be included in media articles).
The OECD, working with over 100 countries, is a global policy forum that promotes policies to preserve individual liberty and improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world.
