President Zelensky salutes the spirit of a free nation on Independence Day
On the event of Ukraine’s Independence Day, President Volodymyr Zelensky took a second to increase his needs to the individuals of Ukraine.
In a assertion, he expressed, “Today is a special day for the great people of Ukraine as we celebrate our Independence Day! It is an occasion that represents our freedom, strength, dignity, and equality.”
Happy Ukraine’s Independence Day!
The day of the free, the strong, and the dignified. The day of equals. Ukrainian men and women. In our entire country.
In this fight, everyone counts. Because the fight is for something that is important to everyone.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 24, 2023
President Zelensky’s heartfelt message deeply resonated with the significance of this present day as he honored “the people of Ukraine who are celebrating this grand day; Independence Day! It is a celebration of our spirit and unwavering determination.” Thursday, August twenty fourth marked the commemoration of Ukraine’s Independence Day. Through his assertion, President Zelensky paid tribute to the indomitable spirit of his nation.
In his tackle the Ukrainian president expressed gratitude in direction of segments of society together with troopers and their households. He additionally acknowledged educators, docs, nurses and all those that contribute to “Ukraines defense” in gentle of aggression. Furthermore President Zelensky emphasised the significance of those that have proven resilience amidst occupation by acknowledging that 20% of Ukrainian territory stays underneath Moscows management ” regardless of Kievs steadfast resolve to regain management, over these jap and southern areas.
Ukrainian Army Commander in Chief Valery Zaloujny joined in expressing admiration praising Ukraine as “a land of heroic and courageous individuals.”
At the time Ukrainian Military Intelligence Chief Kyrylo Boudanov communicated a message of unity on Telegram stating that their frequent goal is to attain victory and their shared dream is to determine an unbiased peaceable, safe and affluent future.
Vassyl Maliouk, the head of the Ukrainian Security Service echoed the nations resilience by asserting that Ukraine stays robust regardless of the invasion in February 2022.
As Maliouk aptly put it Independence Day has developed into greater than a celebration of our proper to life and freedom; it has develop into a image of heroism and bravado that signifies our unwavering willpower in the face of adversity.
This years Independence Day celebration coincides with Kievs counter offensive since June as they try to reclaim territories nonetheless occupied by Russia. The Ukrainian individuals stay steadfast of their dedication, to liberation and progress.
As Ukraine commemorates its Independence Day President Zelensky’s phrases replicate the nations enduring spirit. Unwavering dedication to overcoming challenges forging forward and securing a brighter future of freedom.
Twenty-six members of communities affected by TotalEnergies’ mega-oil projects in East Africa have filed a fresh lawsuit in France against the French oil multinational company demanding reparations for human rights violations.
The communities have jointly sued the oil giant along with human rights defender Maxwell Atuhura, and five French and Ugandan civil society organizations (CSOs).
In the suit, the communities are demanding reparations for human rights violations associated with Tilenga and EACOP oil drilling projects.
While an initial lawsuit filed in 2019 sought to prevent such violations, the company has since been accused of failure to comply with its Duty of Vigilance, causing serious harm to plaintiffs, particularly concerning their land and food rights.
The plaintiffs have consequently asked the court to order the company to compensate members of the affected communities.
The CSOs, AFIEGO, Friends of the Earth France, NAPE/Friends of the Earth Uganda, Survie and TASHA Research Institute, as well as Atuhura, are demanding compensation from TotalEnergies on the basis of the second legal mechanism of the French law on Duty of Vigilance.
France’s Corporate Duty of Vigilance law (Loi de Vigilance) requires large corporations in the country to effectively manage their human rights and environmental risks, both within the company itself, but also within subsidiaries, subcontractors and suppliers.
In 2017, France was the first country in the world to adopt a law making it mandatory for large companies to carry out human rights and environmental due diligence (HREDD) and publish a Vigilance Plan annually.
The law, known as The French Corporate Duty of Vigilance Law, or The French Loi de Vigilance, was adopted to ensure companies take the necessary measures required to identify and prevent human rights and environmental violations in their supply chains.
The legislation requires companies to comply if they are established in France. At the end of two consecutive financial years, companies are required by law to employ at least 5000 workers in the firm and its France-based subsidiaries.
They are alternatively required to have at least 10000 employees in the company payroll and its subsidiaries in France and other countries.
Dickens Kamugisha, CEO of AFIEGO, says injustices committed against Tilenga and EACOP-affected communities nearly on a weekly basis include under-compensation, delayed compensation to the construction of small, inappropriate replacement houses that were not suitable for family sizes of affected households.
Other violations include young people being forced to live a few metres from EACOP. “The injustices are too many and have caused real grief. We hope that the Paris civil court will
reign in TotalEnergies and provide justice for the people,” says Kamugisha.
In the latest lawsuit, filed at the Paris Civil Court, the communities have asked the court to hold TotalEnergies civilly liable and pay compensation for human rights violations committed against communities affected by Tilenga and other EACOP-affected communities within Ugandan territory in the past 6 years.
The summons clearly demonstrate a causal link between the failure to elaborate and effectively implement TotalEnergies’ Vigilance Plan, “and the damage suffered as a result.”
The communities accuse TotalEnergies of failure to identify risks of serious harm associated with its mega-project and act when alerted to their existence, nor did it implement corrective measures once the human rights violations had occurred. No measures relating to displacements of populations, restricted access to livelihoods or threats to human rights defenders appear in TotalEnergies’ 2018-2023 vigilance plans.
Maxwell Atuhura, director of TASHA says: “We have had interaction with the affected people and environmental human rights defenders intimidated and harassed in their home regions, including myself, due to Total’s oil projects in Uganda. Now we say enough is enough we need to defend absolutely the freedom of speech and opinion. Our voices matter for a better future.”
Yet the risks could have easily been identified in advance, as the company chose to locate the projects involving massive evictions in countries where civil liberties are often violated.
Frank Muramuzi, NAPE Executive Director says: “It’s a shame that foreign oil corporates continue to make supernormal profits while Ugandan oil host communities reap harassment, displacements, poor compensations and abject poverty on their own land.”
And contrary to TotalEnergies’ claims that its multi-billion oil projects were a major contributor to the development of local communities, it has become a threat to the future of poor families.
Pauline Tétillon, co-president of Survie, says: The company has only threatened the future of tens of thousands of people in a country where any protest is stifled or even repressed. Although the Duty of Vigilance Law forces communities to fight a David vs. Goliath battle by making them bear the burden of proof, it does offer them the opportunity to seek justice in France and finally have Total condemned for its repeated human rights violations.”
The law’s ambition is to prevent corporate abuses by obligating companies to set out effective measures of vigilance by establishing, implementing and publishing a Vigilance Plan in line with the UN’s human rights due diligence procedure.
The Vigilance Plan should explain what measures the company has implemented to identify and prevent human rights and environmental violations associated with a company’s activities. The activities include the company’s own activities of the company’s subsidiaries and suppliers and subcontractors’ activities which are directly and indirectly linked to the company through their commercial relationship/agreement.
The Vigilance Plan includes risk mapping, identification, analysis and ranking of potential risks as well as steps implemented to address, mitigate and prevent risks and violations.
The company is required to outline procedures implemented for periodically assessing the company’s subsidiaries, subcontractors and supplier’s compliance and a method for identifying existing or potential risks in cooperation with relevant trade unions.
Should a company covered by the law fail to comply by, for example, failing to implement and publish their Vigilance Plan, any concerned party, including victims of corporate abuses, may file a complaint with the relevant jurisdiction.
A company that fails to publish plans can be fined up to 10 million EUR which may rise to 30 Million EUR if failure to act results in damages that would otherwise have been prevented.
The scale of violations associated with Tilenga and EACOP projects has been widely documented by different actors, including civil society groups and UN Special Rapporteurs.
People affected by Tilenga and EACOP projects were deprived of free use of their land even before they had received compensation, for between three to even four years, in violation of their property rights.
Juliette Renaud, Senior campaigner for Friends of the Earth France claims TotaEnergies Tilenga and EACOP projects “have become emblematic, worldwide, of ravages of oil on human rights and the environment.
The affected communities must obtain justice for the violations committed by Total! This new battle is the battle of those whose lives and rights have been trampled upon by Total.”
“We salute members of affected communities for their courage in standing up to this powerful transnational corporation despite the threats they face, and call on the French justice system to repair this damage and thus put an end to Total’s impunity.”
Communities had also suffered severe food shortages because members had been deprived of their livelihoods, resulting in a violation of the right to adequate food.
Farmlands in some villages have been heavily affected by heavy flooding caused by the construction of the Tilenga Central Processing Facility (CPF) while only a minority of people benefited from compensation in kind, including land to land » i.e. replacement house and land, while for others, financial compensation was largely insufficient.
Scores of villagers say they have been threatened, harassed or arrested for criticising the oil projects in Uganda and Tanzania and defending the rights of the affected communities.
Friends of the Earth France and Survie have just released a new report concerning TotalEnergie’s EACOP project. “EACOP, a disaster in the making” is the result of a ground-breaking field investigation into Total’s giant oil pipeline project in Tanzania.
Fresh testimonies from families show human rights violations by the French oil giant in Uganda. “From the shores of Lake Victoria to the Indian Ocean, in all the regions affected by the pipeline, affected communities are expressing their feelings of powerlessness and injustice in the face of practices of the oil developers, who are flouting their most fundamental rights,” says Kamugisha.
Ever since France implemented their HREDD law, governments adopting human rights and environmental due diligence legislation have skyrocketed, especially on the European continent.
The European Commission announced in 2021 that they would adopt their own directive on mandatory supply chain due diligence for all companies operating within the EU which is likely to be enforced in 2024.
Nothing recreates the holiday feeling like heading to a lovely bar to enjoy a drink after leaving your luggage at the hotel. Whether it’s an Aperol on a terrace in Italy, a gin and tonic overlooking Porto or a glass of sangria overlooking stunning Spanish cityscapes, the rooftop bar is the epitome of holiday sophistication.
Fortunately, Enjoy Travel knows how important these coveted spots are, so they’ve compiled a list of the best rooftop bars in Europe. Their recommendations are based on aggregated ratings of social media performance as well as insights from their editorial team.
Frank’s Café in London is considered the best. Perched atop a car park, this South London venue offers cocktails, nibbles and stunning views of the capital’s skyline.
In second place is Azotea del Circulo, an icon of the Madrid bar scene that can be enjoyed season after season thanks to its retractable roof. It is within walking distance of El Retiro Park and Plaza Mayor – the perfect place for a glass of wine between sightseeing.
In third place is The Roof in Reykjavík – offering panoramic views and an amazing cocktail list. The Veni, Vidi, Kiwi cocktail with Icelandic basil sounds particularly refreshing.
Schweizerhof Flims in Switzerland is fourth and Oroya in Madrid is fifth. Spain clearly knows what it’s doing when it comes to a good rooftop venue, as it takes three of the top 10 spots – Ibiza’s Patchwork comes in at number eight.
Here is the full list of the ten best bars in Europe according to Enjoy Travel
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM, August 24, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ — In a display of interfaith collaboration Ivan Arjona Pelado, the President of the European Office of the Church of Scientology for Public Affairs & Human Rights delivered a moving speech at the inauguration ceremony of the European Sikh Organization. Amidst the audience, Arjona-Pelados’s words struck a chord as he eloquently emphasized unity, equality and shared values that transcend religious boundaries.
(you can find full video below)
The significant event unfolded at Gurudwara Guru Nanak Sahib in Vilvoorde (located on the outskirts of Brussels). The Secretary General of the established European Sikh Organization warmly welcomed attendees from various faiths including Muslims, Christians, Scientologists and others. This inclusive gathering exemplified the spirit fostered by organizations like Religions for Peace and Peacefully Connected.
Following this introduction was an address by Jathedar Bhai Ranjit Singh Khalsa, a respected figure in the Sikh community who had journeyed all the way from India. Khalsa spoke passionately about the Sikh community’s unwavering dedication and loyalty to their adopted homelands. Then it was Arjona Pelados’s turn to pay tribute to Guru Nanak Dev Ji—the founder, behind the Sikh movement. Arjona-Pelado remarked, “Guru Nanak was a remarkable spiritual leader who emphasized the significance of equality, compassion, and service to others.” This tribute established the atmosphere for a speech that would contemplate the teachings of Guru Nanak and their significance in today’s world.
During his address, Arjona-Pelado praised the Sikh community for their dedication, to empathy, harmony and selflessness values that resonate with the core principles of Guru Nanak’s teachings. “As we unite to celebrate this milestone,” he noted, “I am reminded of the profound teachings of the founder of the Sikh movement, a visionary who ignited a flame of hope and understanding.”
Both Scientology and Sikhism place significant emphasis on personal experience and observation
Ivan Arjona-Pelado, Scientology representative to the European institutions and United Nations
Throughout the speech, Arjona-Pelado emphasized Guru Nanak’s unwavering dedication to equality, a theme that holds resonance in today’s society marred by discrimination and injustice. Pelado ardently stated, “He ardently believed in equality, teaching that all individuals are equal, irrespective of their religion, caste, or social standing.” This assertion was met with nods of agreement from the audience, as the enduring relevance of Guru Nanak’s ideals was acknowledged.
A powerful segment of Arjona-Pelado’s speech was dedicated to highlighting the challenges the Sikh community has faced. With a resolute tone, he stated, “Yet, it is imperative to recognize that the journey of the Sikh community has not been without trials.” Discrimination, hate crimes, and misconceptions surrounding the Sikh turban have created hurdles for this vibrant community.
Arjona-Pelado passionately condemned any form of discrimination, asserting, “I stand here today to unequivocally condemn any discrimination directed at your community.” He emphasized the shared responsibility of upholding the principles of dignity and respect, transcending religious differences. “Discriminating against one of you is tantamount to discriminating against me. And by discriminating against me, it is discrimination against all of you,” Arjona-Pelado proclaimed, invoking unity.
The speech further delved into the European Union’s principles and its commitment to human dignity, freedom, and equality. Arjona-Pelado emphasized the need for these principles to extend to all religious communities, emphasizing, “European Union agencies must enhance their efforts to ensure equitable treatment of all religions, including the Sikh community.”
He also drew intriguing parallels between Scientology and Sikhism, showcasing commonalities in their emphasis on personal experience and growth as shown by some of the quotes he read from Scientology founder L Ron Hubbard. “Both Scientology and Sikhism place significant emphasis on personal experience and observation,” he stated, highlighting the shared pursuit of self-improvement and spiritual realization.
As the speech reached its zenith, the Scientology representative looked towards the future, pledging solidarity with the Sikh Community’s aspiration to build a monumental Sikh temple. “Let us confront the regrettable reality of persisting discrimination, often manifesting as prejudice,” he passionately stated, reiterating the commitment to a more inclusive and understanding society.
Fostering Unity and Celebrating Diversity, Scientology Representative Addresses European Sikh Organization Inauguration 2
In the conclusion, Arjona-Pelado’s words resonated as a call to action. “Together, let us ensure that your legacy echoes one of resilience, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication to enhancing our society,” he implored. The speech concluded with resounding applause and a shared commitment to uphold the values of compassion, unity, and human dignity.
The Scientology representative’s address at the European Sikh Organization inauguration will undoubtedly be remembered as a powerful testament to the potential of interfaith collaboration. In a world seeking harmony amidst diversity, united action serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that shared values can bridge gaps and create a more inclusive future.
In a shocking turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the paramilitary group Wagner, has met an untimely demise in a private plane crash. This crash comes merely two months after Prigozhin’s bold confrontation with Russian authorities, during which he openly challenged top military figures and accused them of corruption and unpatriotic behaviour. While reports inform of his death, some sources still have doubts, fueling speculation about whether his demise was genuine or if it was a strategic ruse to escape the grasp of Putin’s regime.
After an intense period of openly clashing with the upper echelons of the Russian military establishment, where he unabashedly criticized the Minister of Defense and the Chief of the General Staff, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group, faced an abrupt end on Wednesday.
Although there has been no official confirmation of his death, Prigozhin’s name has appeared on the passenger list of a private plane that tragically crashed in the Tver Oblast, north of Moscow, yesterday. However, given Prigozhin’s history of strategic manoeuvring, some sceptics have raised doubts about the authenticity of the list of passengers.
The Russian Civil Aviation Agency, Rosaviatsia, has reported that the plane was carrying a total of ten individuals, including a crew of three. Tragically, all aboard are presumed deceased. A statement from this agency indicated that among the passengers was the prominent mercenary, Yevgeny Prigozhin.
Prigozhin’s journey from the shadows of misinformation to the forefront began in 2022 when he stepped into an active role amid the conflict in Ukraine. He acknowledged his role as the mastermind behind the Wagner Group, and over the months, his contingent of mercenaries gained prominence on the battlefield.
However, Prigozhin also amassed adversaries within Russia. He demanded greater resources for the Russian military and found himself in direct opposition to the top ranks of the Armed Forces. In a notable incident last June, he led an armed rebellion against the Kremlin, sending tremors through Russia amidst the ongoing war with its neighbouring country.
Following the quelling of the uprising through negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, mediated by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, Prigozhin took a step back. He agreed to exile himself and his men to Belarus, and it appeared that Wagner’s activities would shift their focus to this neighbouring ally of Russia and also Africa.
After months of silence, Prigozhin reemerged in a video this Monday, claiming to be in Africa without specifying the exact location. “We’re battling in 50-degree temperatures to elevate Russia’s influence across continents. Our fight is against the Islamic State, Al Qaeda, and other rogue elements,” were his final public words.
Rosaviatsia has initiated an investigation into the crash, while the governor of Tver Oblast, Igor Rudenia, has personally taken control of the inquiry. As the investigation unfolds, some observers cannot help but wonder whether Prigozhin’s reported demise is indeed true, or if it is part of a complex stratagem to elude the grasp of Putin’s regime.
The ill-fated aircraft, an Embraer Legacy business jet, was en route from Moscow to St. Petersburg when it tragically crashed near the village of Kuzhenkino in the Bologovsky district of the northwestern Tver region.
Notable figures such as Ksenia Sobchak, a former presidential candidate, and the Telegram channel Baza have revealed the registration number of the downed aircraft, RA-01795, which belongs to Yevgeny Prigozhin.
BREAKING: Business jet carrying 7 people crashes in Russia's Tver region, northwest of Moscow pic.twitter.com/hsC4YycaGj
In a joint statement shared today in honour of theInternational Day Commemorating the Victims of Violence Based on Religion or Beliefs, leading global multi-religious organizations, Religions for Peace and United Religions Initiative (URI), announced they are “deepening their collaboration on the prevention of religiously motivated violence across the globe. This multi-religious partnership will galvanize other multi-faith groups and peacebuilding allies into common action for our shared goal of positive and lasting peace. We urge others to join us in this effort” said their statement
The need to advance multi-religious collaboration and action against religiously motivated violence
Since signing a Memorandum of Understanding in 2021, both Religions for Peace and United Religions Initiative have been leveraging their resources and networks to advance multi-religious collaboration and action.
“Today, we announce a new initiative under this partnership, aimed at bringing together the world’s religious, faith, and Indigenous leaders and communities in strengthening efforts and capacities to stop the spread of religiously motivated violence. Together, we serve to cultivate a culture of positive and lasting peace, justice, and healing worldwide” reads the joint statement.
To this day, religious and faith communities continue to face harassment and persecution by governments and private groups in various parts of the globe. Religious, spiritual, and Indigenous leaders and actors play a pivotal role in preventing this violence and establishing positive behaviours and actions to counter it.
It is with this understanding, says the declaration, that United Religions Initiative and Religions for Peace commit to build on the strengths and experiences of their respective networks, in a joint effort to call attention to and address religiously motivated violence.
With a focus on evidence-based approaches to stopping the spread of violence, this partnership will strengthen the capacities of religious and faith leaders at the grassroots, national, regional, and global levels.
Together, United Religions Initiative and Religions for Peace will provide additional tools and approaches to religious and faith leaders and scale up documentation of lessons learned and best practices from the joint mobilization of their work.
The important role of media and international organizations
In addition, this collaboration will focus on designing and implementing robust media campaigns and activities aimed at stopping the spread of religiously motivated violence.
Advocacy actions will be targeted towards governments and international organizations whose mandate is to prevent violence based on religion or belief.
A special emphasis will be placed on mobilizing the engagement of the Women and Youth Interfaith Networks, as catalysts of change and drivers of common action and awareness-raising.
More on the organizations
Religions for Peace is the largest representative multi-religious coalition, advancing common action among the world’s faith communities through Interreligious Councils – and their Women of Faith and Interfaith Youth Networks – in over 95 countries and 6 regions.
United Religions Initiative (URI) is the world’s largest interfaith grassroots network of more than 1,100 community-led organizations (Cooperation Circles) working in 110 countries to cultivate peace, justice, and healing worldwide.
As we enter the summer of 2023 the global climate continues to astonish us with weather phenomena. Soaring temperatures and intense rainfall are wreaking havoc in regions highlighting the need to address climate change. This article explores the surge of weather events their impact, on different parts of the world and ongoing efforts to comprehend and mitigate their consequences.
Reaching New Heights, Alarming Temperature Surge in Switzerland
Amidst Europe’s scorching conditions, Switzerland is facing a concerning rise in temperatures. The UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) issued a warning about this issue. Speaking from Geneva WMO spokesperson Clare Nullis revealed that the freezing point has reached an altitude of 5,298 meters—surpassing Mont Blancs peaks. This elevation is a staggering 115 meters higher than the record set in 2022 making it the highest point recorded since temperature measurements began in 1954.
Ms Nullis emphasized that the impact of this heatwave on glaciers cannot be ignored. It has led to changes in freezing levels and snow cover, exacerbating years of observations of vanishing snow and ice, on glaciers—an unfortunate continuation caused by this latest heatwave.
Extreme Heatwaves Sweeping Across Europe
The countries of Southern Europe, Italy, France, Croatia and Portugal are currently facing heat waves. The national weather forecaster, in France, Météo France has issued alerts ranging from amber to red across regions as record-breaking daytime and minimum overnight temperatures are being recorded.
Similar red alerts have also been issued in parts of Italy, Croatia and Portugal with neighbouring countries receiving amber heat alerts.
In contrast to this scorching heat, Scandinavia is experiencing an amount of rainfall. Norway has even issued alerts for the rainfall in its southern regions due to the potential risk it poses to human lives.
Impacts on Human Health
The relentless heat brings health risks as demonstrated by summer statistics. Over 61,000 individuals lost their lives due to heat-related causes across 35 countries during the summer months. Tarik Jašarević, a spokesperson, for the UN World Health Organization (WHO), emphasized the need to address these risks associated with heat.
Glacial Effects and Ongoing Research
Scientists are currently investigating how rising temperatures are affecting glaciers. In Switzerland, snow cover is now limited to elevations—a clear indication of how profoundly the heatwave is impacting these icy formations.
The United Nations defines heatwaves as periods of weather statistically speaking and their prolonged duration makes their effects particularly worrisome.
Heatwaves and Tropical Cyclones Across the Globe
Outside of Europe, there are sweltering conditions, in the southern parts of the United States resulting in excessive heat warnings. Moreover, there has been an increase in cyclone activity in the Atlantic region, which raises concerns about flooding and extreme rainfall. Specifically, there have been worries regarding tropical systems Gert, Franklin and Harold.
Franklin caused flooding in Haiti and the Dominican Republic while Harold is expected to make landfall in Texas bringing with it rainfall and a risk of flash flooding. The convergence of heat and substantial rainfall in Texas highlights the nature of the climate crisis.
Unprecedented Rainfall and Extraordinarily Wet Conditions
regions known for their climates are experiencing unprecedented levels of rainfall that are reshaping landscapes. Death Valley, one of the places, on Earth recently broke records by receiving its recorded amount of rainfall ever; 2.20 inches. This surpasses a record setback in August 2022. Demonstrates how climate patterns can be dynamic and unpredictable.
Global Responses and Ongoing Initiatives
As extreme weather events continue to impact parts of the world attention has turned to the United Nations’ efforts to comprehend and address climate change effectively. While discussions have arisen about naming heatwaves to cyclones the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) remains primarily focused on ensuring public safety through effective messaging.
Moreover, the recent gathering of the Greater Horn of Africa Weather Forum emphasizes the significance of cooperation, in addressing and minimizing the consequences of weather conditions.
In conclusion, the world is confronted with evidence of climate change through weather events, such as scorching temperatures in Switzerland and unprecedented rainfall in Death Valley. As new records are continuously set it becomes crucial for governments organizations and individuals to prioritize taking action, against climate change and implementing measures to adapt to its impacts. Only through collective efforts can the global community successfully navigate the challenges posed by these extraordinary weather patterns.
WARSAW, August 22nd, 2023 – The beautiful fabric of interfaith and interreligious dialogue is intertwined with the threads of various faith traditions. Each of the religions, large or small, contributes to upholding the right to freedom of religion or belief and striving to eradicate religious intolerance and violence.
On the International Day dedicated to commemorating victims of violence rooted in religion, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) highlights the significance of these efforts.
In this mosaic individuals, from various religious backgrounds unite to promote understanding, empathy and harmonious coexistence. The contributions made by faiths, like Christianity, Islam, Bahá’í, Scientology, Hinduism, Buddhism and others hold great significance in nurturing dialogue and harmony; they should not be interfered with by governments.
As ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci emphasizes, “Dialogue can be difficult, but it is nonetheless vital.” The combined efforts of religious groups, such as Christians, Scientologists, Muslims, Bahá’ís, Hindus and Buddhists showcase the incredible impact that dialogue can have.
These communities understand the importance of fostering understanding, empathy and respect among faiths. It’s not a noble pursuit; it’s crucial for creating a more harmonious and inclusive world. As we remember those who have suffered from violence rooted in religion let us also celebrate the progress achieved through interfaith collaboration. Let’s renew our commitment, to a future where understanding prevails over ignorance and where dialogue overcomes discord.
Christian communities, representing denominations have always played a vital role in fostering interfaith collaborations. Whether it be through gatherings or interreligious prayer sessions Christians actively work towards bridging theological differences by emphasizing common principles of compassion and benevolence. The World Council of Churches serves as an example of this commitment, to dialogue as it brings together diverse Christian traditions with the aim of overcoming misunderstandings and nurturing unity. And we can not forget to mention the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in fostering religious freedom, nor the Seventh-Day Adventists with their IRLA.
Scientology being a new religion supports the idea of religious freedom and mutual understanding between different faiths. The Church of Scientology actively takes part in interfaith gatherings around the globe, such as the Parliament of World Religions held in Chicago, the different International Religious Freedom Roundtables and even the Faith and Freedom Summit NGO Coalition, with the aim of fostering tolerance and respect among diverse religious groups. The Church’s focus on spiritual development aligns well, with the broader goals of interfaith discussions.
Muslim communities from around the globe round actively participate in dialogues aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence. Dedicated organizations, such, as the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) put in effort to debunk misconceptions surrounding Islam and cultivate unity among different faiths. ISNAs efforts include hosting seminars, workshops and collaborative projects that encourage understanding between Muslims and people of religious beliefs.
The Bahá’í communities, guided by principles of unity and harmony have long been advocates for interfaith cooperation. The Bahá’í International Community takes a role, in engaging with interfaith conversations advocating for freedom and the elimination of prejudice. The teachings of the Bahá’í Faith, which emphasize the unity of all religions provide a foundation, for fostering understanding and cooperation.
Buddhist communities, rooted in principles of compassion and nonviolence also play a role in interfaith endeavors. Buddhist leaders and organizations take part in dialogues that aim to promote harmony and mutual respect among faiths. The Dalai Lama, a known leader in the Buddhist community has consistently emphasized the importance of engaging in dialogue between different faiths to foster inner peace and establish harmonious relationships.
Importance of Protecting and Fostering Interfaith
In a world where intolerance and violence often prevail the dedication of these religious communities to interfaith and interreligious conversations offers hope. Their collaborative endeavours reflect the beliefs and responsibilities upheld by OSCE member states reaffirming freedom of religion or belief, as a human right.
ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci also underlined the arduous yet indispensable nature of dialogue as it:
“gives an opportunity for different religious or belief communities to engage in frank but respectful conversation. This allows members of diverse communities to gain insight into each other’s beliefs, practices and values, fostering mutual tolerance and respect and countering stereotypes and prejudices that can lead to intolerance or even violence.”
Acts of prejudice or hostility towards religious or belief communities like the ones sometimes witnessed in countries such as France, Germany and Russia regularly covered by NGOs like Human Rights Without Frontiers and CAP Freedom of Conscience, rarely occur in isolation. They often coincide with other forms of intolerance. The consequences of violence and discrimination go beyond community harm potentially posing a threat to security throughout the OSCE region.
Tensions between belief communities can escalate into broader conflicts with significant repercussions so it is important for governments to promote dialogue rather than attempting to disrupt relations between religions particularly when it concerns minority groups. For instance, it is unacceptable to advise a woman in Bavaria, Germany, not to collaborate with Scientologists as doing so would jeopardize her support from City Hall in promoting Jewish women who have taken action against the Holocaust. Or for example of France would be their financing of anti-religious outfits such as FECRIS which has fostered hate in Ukraine and all around Europe and the world. Or just another instance of states fostering and perpetrating discrimination is the stance Russia has with most “non-orthodox” like Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Actively fostering exchange and collaboration, rather than hate, among religious and belief communities through interfaith has the potential to advance freedom of religion or belief while creating an atmosphere of peaceful coexistence. This effort includes initiatives aimed at formulating effective anti-discrimination regulations and laws. It is crucial to align the status of belief communities, with international human rights standards while safeguarding everyone’s right to practice their faith without fear of violence. As a note, I would say that there are countries in Asia like Taiwan, which have better records on protecting diversity than some participating states like Belgium, of which even USCIRF and Bitter Winter report about.
Ensuring the security and stability of the OSCE region by promoting freedom of religion or belief is a focus of ODIHR’s mission. ODIHR has a panel of experts from backgrounds and fields who contribute to this effort. An exciting upcoming event on ODIHR’s schedule is the launch of a toolkit that aims to facilitate interfaith and interreligious dialogue and collaborations. This toolkit is designed to foster understanding and dialogue, among religious and belief communities.
On this day of remembrance, let us not only commemorate the victims but also recommit ourselves to a world where understanding eclipses hatred, and dialogue prevails over discord.
The principles at the heart of the OSCE acknowledge that every participating state recognizes the right for individuals to “profess and practice, alone or in community with others, religion or belief acting in accordance with the dictates of his own conscience.” This freedom allows people to choose, adapt or even abandon their faith emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity in society for coexistence.
To summarize, promoting dialogue and understanding among faiths and religions is crucial for progress and peace in our interconnected world. ODIHR’s unwavering commitment, to this cause backed by its team of experts, guides societies towards a future where freedom of religion or belief’s not just a theoretical right but a lived reality. It envisions a world where violence fueled by intolerance becomes a thing of the past. On this day of remembrance let us honor the victims while also reaffirming our dedication to creating a world where empathy triumphs over hatred and meaningful conversations prevail over discord.
Hyundai can be dropping hope and contemplating promoting its plant in St. Petersburg, in accordance to Moscow media
“The Russian market could become more volatile and could even stagnate. We risk no longer being able to deliver new vehicles,” the group warned, as quoted by Russian information company Tass.
Korean manufacturers Kia and Hyundai are additionally getting ready to go away the Russian market, the place they’ve been the one various to Chinese imports in current months. Kia has already moved most of its Russian workplace to Kazakhstan, and has confirmed plans to begin assembling vehicles there in a three way partnership with native firm Allur Auto.
Comments are heard within the Russian media that this enterprise shall be primarily geared toward exporting to Russia – maybe “in the second way”, in order not to immediately violate the sanctions.
Kia and Hyundai have been respectively the quantity 2 and three gamers within the Russian market earlier than the battle in Ukraine, second solely to AvtoVAZ by way of gross sales. In 2021, the 2 Korean corporations offered 205,000 and 197,000 automobiles, respectively.
After the beginning of the battle, the Koreans waited, hoping to save their Russian enterprise. Now, nonetheless, this hope appears to have disappeared, as a result of Hyundai can be contemplating the sale of its Russian plant in St. Petersburg, Gazeta.ru claims. There can be hypothesis concerning the value – about 500 million {dollars}, which in accordance to specialists is virtually half of the true worth of the enterprise.
In the Haftar family, we know the father: Marshal and leader of the Libyan National Army (ANL). A Libyan tutelary figure. Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi on October 20, 20112, who died in the city of Sirte, a stronghold of the Ferjany tribe, from which the family originated, Khalifa Haftar has reigned over the east of the country. It is often ignored that the Benghazi master has eight sons – certainly one of his only points in common with the former “guide of the revolution”.
Elseddik Haftar – When charisma rhymes with leadership
The eldest, Elseddik is a doctor of international law. He wears the suit and the fine moustache with elegance. Nothing to do with the trellis, the uniform of the members of the clan. Far from the sound of bullets, Dr Elseddik prefers start-ups and economic and social development programs. A builder at heart, Doctor Elseddik envisages the reconstruction of a fragmented and clanified Libya.
He wants it pacified, reunited and on the move….An influential figure in the field of engineering and infrastructure in Libya, the “Doctor” as he is nicknamed, oversees projects related to the reconstruction and development of roads, buildings and public services in Libyan cities, thus contributing to the improvement of living conditions and the development of community infrastructure.
Its objective: To breathe new life into Libya and thus get out of the deadly impasses that plague the country. More than ten years of conflict have left it in full decline. Two governments, the proliferation of armed militias and terrorist groups. A military, political and social divide without counting on the ever-increasing migration crisis.
Regain your sovereignty
“Take in hand the ongoing reconciliation process in your country, Africa and all the other partners will accompany you there until the general elections which should seal the return to constitutional order”, this exhortation was launched by the leader of the Congolese State Denis Sassou N’Guesso, Chairman of the High Level Committee of the African Union (AU), on July 20, as part of the preparatory meeting for the inter-Libyan reconciliation conference.
A priority – THE priority. Recreate the country’s unity and create security for the Libyan people, bruised by years of lead, and find peace.
“We have to turn the page, turn the bloody page of violence, of hatred to move towards reconciliation. To put my country back on track, all parts of the population will have to take each other by the hand, whatever their tribe, their social class. The urgency today is to save the country from the current situation in which we find ourselves after the events. This country must be built on democratic foundations, that is to say, a multilateral country, where everyone has their place in this reconstruction. This is Doctor Haftar’s vision.
The Future of Libya – the Strength of its Youth
Those under 25 represent almost half of the seven million Libyans, which is to say that their future is crucial for the development of the country. A youth raised in the school of propaganda and the “green book”, a veritable bible of Muammar Gaddafi. A youth, which today dreams of an elsewhere, since its horizon has still not cleared up. In this oil-rich country – it has the largest reserves in Africa – the Libyan population does not see any future.
Galloping corruption, record unemployment rate, and economic crisis direct consequence of political insecurity. Many young people are forced into unregulated and underpaid jobs. As for those under ten, a large number of them do not go to school, the fault for the ten years of conflict.
A reality against which the discreet but influential “Doctor” has decided to attack.
“The education of boys and girls is a non-negotiable priority for my country. It is essential to give back to this youth, the desire to build and to undertake”. And to financially support innovative projects aimed at young people. But not only… ” It is time to put in place a policy of equality between men and women. The place of the Libyan woman is essential in our society. The right to freedom, the right to work and the right to emancipation. Libya must take this path. »
A Haftar dynasty?
In 2017, Doctor Elseddik joined the very closed circle of the “Eastern Forces General Staff”, a government composed mainly of the sons and relatives of the strongman of Benghazi. To the “Doctor”, Marshal Haftar entrusted diplomacy. The task force, since Elseddik spent his doctorate in Egypt, a country with which the Haftars have kept strong ties. A key position, which could position him favourably to enter the race for succession in place of his father.
One thing is certain: At 49, Doctor Elseddik presents himself as a diplomatic and consensual figure, well-established with many Libyan tribes, one of the political keys to managing this country.
It remains to be seen whether this new challenge will tempt “Doctor” Elseddik HAFTAR.
