Cup of black coffee with a slice of lemon on a grey tablecloth, selective focus
Over 2 billion doses of coffee are made every day in the world, with some bars in Italy setting records of over 4,000 doses of coffee per day.
Legend has it that in the 9th century, a young Abyssinian shepherd noticed that the goats he was caring for became unusually energetic after eating the fruits of some plant he did not know. He tried it out of curiosity and the effect was amazing, he felt lively and energetic throughout the day. Gradually, this drink has spread around the world.
This is further proof that it is good to trust animals that have kept their connection with nature and take advantage of their instincts. The word “coffee” has an Arabic origin and means “power, energy” or the other theory is that it comes from the Arabic word for wine – “kahwa” or it is wine from the coffee bean. On the question of the homeland of coffee, however, all there are still disputes. According to some sources, it is the Kaffa region of South-West Ethiopia, and according to others, Yemen.
Coffee is a fruit that resembles the cherry, and for this reason it is called “coffee cherry”, the color of the plant closely resembles the aroma and appearance of jasmine. There are two main methods of coffee processing – wet and dry. After that, an important part takes place – the fermentation of the coffee. It is important because it contributes to the aroma of the coffee. The next stage is the drying, which is best done in the sun. Coffee roasting is a whole science, with different bakers having and applying different methods and secrets.
The most expensive coffee in the world “Kopi Luwak” literally translated from Indonesian means “Coffee from Asian Palm Civet”. And it is the civet, a predatory mammal similar to a raccoon, that makes this coffee so special. The civet feeds on different types of coffee beans – Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, which lure it with their fruit shell. Once ingested, the grains spend about a day and a half in the animal’s stomach, where only part of their outer shell breaks down. Their insides remain whole, with an unchanged shape, and are expelled from the civet’s digestive tract naturally.
There are many benefits of coffee: “They have a very good effect on brain functions – we are much more focused, concentrated, it has a very good effect on memory. Research shows that daily coffee consumption can reduce or prevent the development of Type B diabetes, Parkinson’s, dementia.
Planning a vacation, a summer getaway to Europe in 2023? If you’re in need of a budget-friendly European destination, you’ll want to consider visiting some of the continent’s most affordable cities. From charming Eastern European gems to vibrant Mediterranean hotspots, here are the five cheapest cities to visit in Europe during the summer
Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a budget-friendly vacation destination that offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. With its picturesque streets, charming squares, and medieval buildings, Prague is a city that will transport you back in time. Explore the iconic Prague Castle, stroll across the historic Charles Bridge, and wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Don’t forget to indulge in some traditional Czech cuisine and sample the famous Czech beer. With its affordable accommodation options and reasonable prices for food and attractions, Prague is a perfect choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to experience the beauty of Europe without breaking the bank.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is another budget-friendly destination that offers a mix of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Explore the iconic Buda Castle, take a relaxing dip in one of the city’s famous thermal baths, and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Danube River. Budapest is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. The city offers affordable vacation accommodation options, delicious local cuisine, and a variety of free or low-cost attractions. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous Hungarian Parliament Building and the beautiful Fisherman’s Bastion. Budapest is a must-visit destination for travellers looking to experience the charm of Europe on a budget.
Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw, the capital city of Poland, is a budget-friendly vacation destination that offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of attractions to explore. Visit the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the colourful buildings and charming cobblestone streets. Explore the Warsaw Uprising Museum to learn about the city’s resilience during World War II, or visit the Royal Castle to experience the grandeur of Polish royalty. Warsaw also offers a variety of parks and green spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. With affordable accommodation options, delicious Polish cuisine, and a thriving arts and music scene, Warsaw is a great choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to experience the beauty of Europe.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is another budget-friendly destination that offers a mix of history, culture, and stunning views. Explore the narrow streets of the Alfama district, known for its colourful buildings and traditional Fado music. Visit the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, to learn about Portugal’s maritime history. Take a ride on the historic Tram 28 to see the city’s landmarks and enjoy panoramic views. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious Portuguese cuisine, such as pastéis de nata (custard tarts) and bacalhau (salted cod) as part of your vacation experience. With affordable accommodation options and a laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is a great choice for travellers looking to experience the charm of Europe without breaking the bank.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, is a hidden gem in Eastern Europe that offers a budget-friendly experience for travellers. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Sofia has something for everyone. Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture. During a vacation here, take a stroll through the charming streets of the city centre and discover local markets, shops, and cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Bulgarian cuisine, including banitsa (cheese-filled pastry) and shopska salad. With affordable accommodation options and a welcoming atmosphere, Sofia is a great choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore Europe.
The UN chief expressed deep concern at the extreme vulnerability faced by the Haitian people – especially women and girls – because of brutally violent and “predatory” armed gangs, like those encircling the capital, blocking main roads and controlling access to water, food, health care.
“I condemn in the strongest possible terms the widespread sexual violence which the armed gangs have used as a weapon to instil fear,” he said, calling on the entire international community to urgently “put the victims and the civilian population at the centre of our concerns and priorities.”
Speaking to reporters in the Haitian capital, Mr. Guterres said that lasting and fully representative political solutions in Haiti would be impossible without a drastic improvement in the security situation.
“Every day counts. If we do not act now, instability and violence will have a lasting impact on generations of Haitians,” warned the Secretary-General, calling on all partners to increase their support for the national police in the form of financing, training or equipment.
However, such assistance alone might not be enough to restore the authority of the State.
“I continue to urge the Security Council to authorize the immediate deployment of a robust international force to assist the Haitian National Police in its fight against the gangs,” emphasized the UN chief.
Political entente to end the crisis
During his one-day visit to the Haitian capital, the Secretary-General he met with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, the High Transitional Council, members of civil society and the political parties, speaking to all of them on the need for ‘a political entente to end the crisis’.
“I call on all actors to create the conditions necessary for the restoration of democratic institutions,” said Mr. Guterres, inviting all parties involved to “rise above personal interests and make concessions” enabling emergence of a common vision and setting a viable and credible electoral pathway.
He commended the recent inter-Haitian talks, facilitated by the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group, aimed at reaching agreement on the formation of a national unity government and the expansion of the High Transitional Council.
“Only an inclusive national dialogue – with the full participation of women and young people – will help end the insecurity and find lasting political solutions,” Mr. Guterres said, and added that the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and the entire UN system would continue to back these efforts.
‘A matter of moral justice’
While in Port-au-Prince, the Secretary-General met local men and women.
“I felt all the exhaustion of a people who have long been grappling with a cascade of crises and unacceptable living conditions. I listened to their call for help,” said the UN chief, noting that currently, one in two Haitians lives in extreme poverty, suffers from hunger, and does not have regular access to drinking water.
With the Haitian people facing such grave challenges, the Secretary-General lamented that the UN humanitarian response plan, which requires $720 million to assist more than three million people, is only 23 per cent funded.
It is “a matter of solidarity and moral justice” that the international community step up, he stated.
He specially commended the courage and dedication of humanitarian workers who provide assistance despite many obstacles and asked all stakeholders to uphold human rights and international law and to ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access to people in need in Haiti.
‘No solution without the Haitian people’
Only inclusive and sustainable development will help to break the historical cycle of crises, address the humanitarian and security challenges, and create a stable constitutional and political environment, stated the UN chief.
“No solution can be found without the Haitian people,” he continued, but acknowledged that the scale of the problems demands the full support of the international community.
To garner that and more, the Secretary-General said that he is heading on Sunday to Trinidad and Tobago, where will participate in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit, which brings together the region’s 20 countries, among others.
The coach of “Paris Saint-Germain” Christophe Galtier and his son John Valovik were detained by the French police.
The reason for the arrest are accusations of discrimination during the coach’s stay at the head of “Nice” in the period 2021-2022. It is about suspicions that Galtier asked his bosses at the club to sell or release black footballers who profess Islam. The mentor then began receiving death threats and his family had to be under police protection.
The two testified yesterday morning over suspicions of “discrimination on racial or religious grounds.” Galtier, 56, could face up to 3 years in prison if the allegations of racist remarks are confirmed.
The Confederation of Employers of Ukraine on Friday published data that may indirectly indicate the number of wounded in the Ukrainian army: according to a press release of the Confederation, the number of people who received disabilities in the first ten months of the war jumped by three and a half times compared to with peacetime and amounted to 45 thousand people, the Russian Service of the BBC cited the data.
“In the pre-war year, 13,000 people received disabilities. In the first 10 months of the war in 2022, according to official and not very adequate statistics, more than 45,000 Ukrainians received disabilities,” Ukrainian agencies quoted Valery Sushkevich, head of the Ukrainian National assembly of disabled people. His words are shared in a press release of the Confederation of Employers.
Sushkiewicz explains that the statistics “are not very adequate” because it is difficult to document the damage during the war and many of the wounded have not yet done so.
How many of these 45,000 are wounded soldiers, how many are wounded civilians, and how many are disabled with non-war-related disabilities is unknown.
Nearly 16,000 Ukrainian civilians have been injured since the war began, nearly 3,000 of them in Russian-controlled territory, according to the United Nations.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, 478 children have died as a result of hostilities and related events, the General Prosecutor’s Office of Ukraine said, as quoted by the BBC’s Russian Service in early May.
Ukrainian prosecutors estimate that 960 children have been injured since the war began.
“These data are not final. Work continues to establish the facts in the places of hostilities, in the temporarily occupied and liberated territories,” the announcement of the General Prosecutor’s Office says.
According to a report by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, from February 24, 2022 to April 23, 2023, 8,574 civilians were killed in Ukraine. 6611 people died in the territories controlled by the legitimate authorities of Ukraine and 1913 – in the territories occupied by Russia.
The Fundamental Rights Report by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) for 2023 provides a comprehensive analysis of the developments and shortcomings in human rights protection across the EU in 2022.
Implications of Aggression against Ukraine on Fundamental Rights
The report delves into the fundamental rights implications of the Ukraine conflict for the EU, highlighting the challenges that emerged. Notably, the EU’s Temporary Protection Directive played a vital role in granting access to work, housing, social assistance, education, and healthcare to those affected. However, the majority of arrivals were women and girls who often had caregiving responsibilities for children or older family members. Addressing these needs, the report emphasizes the importance of targeted support, including affordable and safe housing for women and children, suitable job opportunities to prevent exploitation, integration of children into mainstream education, and comprehensive support for women affected by sexual violence and exploitation.
Statement by FRA Director Michael O’Flaherty
FRA Director Michael O’Flaherty stresses that women and girls are innocent victims of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and commends EU countries for providing temporary protection and support. However, he emphasizes the need for long-term solutions that pay particular attention to women, given the ongoing conflict.
Rising Child Poverty: The report highlights the impact of the pandemic and increasing energy costs, which pushed nearly one in four children into poverty. It calls for the implementation of actions outlined in the European Child Guarantee and urges the allocation of funds to alleviate child poverty, especially among vulnerable households, including single-parent, Roma, and migrant families.
Widespread Hate: Hate crime and hate speech, particularly online, remained concerning in 2022, partially influenced by the Ukraine conflict. The report emphasizes the importance of national anti-racism action plans, with more countries urged to develop concrete measures at local and regional levels to combat racism effectively.
Safeguarding Rights in a Technologically Advancing World: The report addresses the growing concern of protecting fundamental rights as artificial intelligence and digital services expand. It recognizes the EU Digital Services Act as a milestone for strong rights protection and calls for its effective implementation. Additionally, the report emphasizes the need for robust safeguards within the proposed EU’s AI Act.
Proposals for Action and Topics Covered
The report provides actionable proposals and covers various fundamental rights topics, including the utilization of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights by Member States, equality and non-discrimination, combating racism and related intolerance, Roma inclusion and equality, asylum, borders, and migration policies, information society, privacy, and data protection, child rights, access to justice, and the implementation of the UN’s Disability Convention (CRPD).
Photo credit: THIX for The European Times - MEP Peter Van Dalen at the 10th Anniversary of the European Union Guidelines on Freedom of Religion or Belief
MEP Peter van Dalen (Christian Union) has announced today on his website his departure from the European Parliament, concluding a remarkable tenure spanning over 14 years. Upon the request of the national executive of the Dutch Christian Union, Van Dalen makes way for Anja Haga, the next candidate on the party’s list, to continue their important work.
Throughout his tenure, one of the causes closest to Peter Van Dalen’s heart has been the promotion of religious freedom in Europe and across the globe. He played a pivotal role in co-founding the European Parliament’s Intergroup on Religious Freedom and was instrumental in the establishment of a Special Envoy on Religious Freedom within the European Union. Notably, Van Dalen organized the highly esteemed European Prayer Breakfast, an annual event that attracted dignitaries and visitors from around the world for many years.
Van Dalen underscores the ongoing significance of prioritizing religious freedom, stating:
“More and more Christians worldwide are being persecuted, but at the same time, attention to this growing issue is waning in Europe. This is a very worrying development. Many colleagues do not seem to appreciate the seriousness of this.”
Reflecting on his impactful initiatives, Peter Van Dalen recalls two cases that stand out: the release of Christian Asia Bibi and the Christian couple Shagufta & Shafqat, who were unjustly held on Pakistani death row for several years on charges of blasphemy. From his position in the European Parliament, Van Dalen exerted pressure on the Pakistani government, working closely with Pakistani lawyer Saïf-ul-Malook, to secure their freedom and advocate for the abolition of blasphemy laws. These successes highlight the efficacy of Van Dalen’s unwavering commitment to religious freedom.
Furthermore, Van Dalen has consistently championed the rights of the people of Armenia and the Armenian enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh. The population, predominantly Christian, has long endured oppression from Azerbaijan, an issue that has been largely overlooked by the international community. Van Dalen strongly believes that Europe should provide support to the Armenians in their struggle against belligerent Azeris. Encouragingly, EU foreign chief Borrell recently pledged to take action on this matter, signalling progress towards addressing the ongoing challenges faced by these communities.
Photo credit: THIX for The European Times – MEP Peter Van Dalen at the 10th Anniversary of the European Union Guidelines on Freedom of Religion or Belief.
Additionally, van Dalen made significant contributions to the development of the European Union Guidelines on Freedom of Religion or Belief. Recognizing the pressing need for a comprehensive framework to safeguard this fundamental human right, Van Dalen played a pivotal role in shaping these guidelines. His expertise and commitment to religious freedom were instrumental in ensuring that the guidelines not only addressed the challenges faced by Christians but also encompassed the broader spectrum of religious communities across Europe.
Peter Van Dalen’s tireless efforts in this regard have left a lasting impact, providing a crucial reference for policymakers and stakeholders working towards the protection and promotion of religious freedom within the European Union, and just the day before announcing his departure, he hosted (together with MEP Carlo Fidanza, Human Rights Without Frontiers, EU Brussels FoRB Roundtable (co-chaired by Eric Roux) and the Netherlands FoRB Roundtable (co-chaired by Hans Noot) a two hours conference within the framework of the 10th anniversary of the guidelines. The conference was well attended by civil society, university students and some MEPs, as well as representatives from different faiths and cosmovisions, from Evangelicals to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Later Day Saints, Scientologists and humanists among others.
Protecting the Fisheries Sector
Van Dalen has also been a staunch advocate for the fisheries sector during his time as an MEP. Serving as the vice-chairman of the fisheries committee in the European Parliament, he has witnessed the hardships faced by fishermen in recent years.
Recalling the struggles encountered, Van Dalen states:
“When I started working to preserve pulse fishing from 2017, the Netherlands was already virtually alone in Europe on this important file. More than some extension for use of that gear was unfortunately not in the cards. Combined with the Brexit, the fall in demand for fish during the corona pandemic and the introduction of the landing obligation, among others, our fishery was unfortunately dealt a heavy blow. Together with several Dutch MEPs, we tried all kinds of things to reverse this development, but failed. I deeply regret that. When I now see how many cutters are being scrapped, it turns my stomach.”
Passing the Torch to MEP Anja Haga
Anja Haga has been designated as Peter van Dalen’s successor. With a background as a former Fryslân state member and Arnhem alderman, Haga brings her expertise in nature and climate issues at the European level to the role. She anticipated that:
“It is important to make the Christian-social sound heard again and again. Religious freedom, creation and looking after our neighbour requires our full attention in the coming years, especially also at the European level.”
Peter Van Dalen’s Background
Peter van Dalen embarked on his political career as a policy officer supporting MEP Leen van der Waal in 1984, while affiliated with the RPF party. Since 2009, he has served as an MEP representing the Christian Union, now in his third term of office. In addition to his steadfast commitment to religious freedom and the fisheries sector, Van Dalen has actively engaged with topics such as the euro and the European Union’s foreign policy. Throughout his tenure, he consistently emphasized the importance of preserving the influence and decision-making power of EU member states.
Peter van Dalen’s departure from the European Parliament marks the end of an era characterized by dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to advocating for religious freedom and the well-being of the fisheries sector. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of policymakers and activists to champion these causes, ensuring a more just and inclusive society within Europe and beyond.
Speaking to the Council’s annual meeting in Geneva on protecting the rights of women and girls, the UN High Commissioner said it was an urgent task, and there needed to be zero-tolerance of gender-based violence.
He highlighted the alarming reality that female human rights defenders, women journalists, and those in public office and political decision-making positions, routinely come under “vicious” attack.
“Such acts are deliberate, directed at those seen as challenging traditional notions of family and gender or harmful traditional social norms”, said Mr. Türk.
“Their purpose is clear”, he added, “to exercise control, to perpetuate subordination and to crush the political activism and aspirations of women and girls.”
To illustrate that, Mr. Türk pointed to a recent study conducted by UN Women in 39 countries. It found that 81.8 per cent of women parliamentarians had experienced psychological violence, while 44.4 per cent reported being threatened with death, rape, beatings, and kidnapping.
Additionally, 25.5 per cent had endured some form of physical violence.
Another study, by UNESCO, estimates that 73 per cent of women journalists have faced online violence, including through the spread of fake news, doctored images, and direct verbal threats and attacks.
Zero tolerance
Confronting the deep-seated structural discrimination requires comprehensive and systemic change. High Commissioner Türk called for the strengthening of national legal frameworks to ensure gender equality and protect women from violence, both online and offline.
“We must adopt codes of conduct with zero tolerance for gender-based violence and establish effective reporting mechanisms for those who experience it,” the High Commissioner said.
Concrete measures, both temporary and permanent, are urgently required. Mr. Türk underscored the need for quotas for women in public and political life. He believes that women should be given more of a chance to get elected to serve on public bodies. For that, awareness-raising campaigns and other forms of assistance to women who want to dedicate their time to politics are needed.
Supporting this point, Reem Alsalem, Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, who also addressed the Council on Friday said: “We must stem the tide of violence against women and girls in the private, public and political spheres of life and we must do so now.”
Challenge archaic notions
Increasing participation needs to start with changing habitual behaviour said the UN rights office (OHCHR) chief.
“We must also challenge archaic notions that confine domestic and care work to women and girls only,” he urged, adding that economic incentives, social protection measures and gender equality campaigns can be driving forces to promote greater equality overall.
Mr. Türk said improving education was an essential precondition for women’s equality participation in public affairs. He stressed the importance of boosting involvement in traditionally male-dominated fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Education systems and curricula should include women as role models and highlight their contributions throughout history to address the lack of visibility and recognition.
“Women make up half of humanity. Gender equality is not a matter of isolated gains for women alone, it is a collective pursuit that benefits entire societies,” said Mr. Türk, calling upon Member States and the Council “to pledge to take concrete and transformative action to tackle gender-based violence against women and girls in public and political life, and to promote their participation and leadership.”
In a statement released in Geneva on Friday, OHCHR Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani expressed concern over the death of 17-year-old Nahel M on Tuesday, after he was shot dead driving away from a traffic stop in the Parisian suburb of Nanterre.
According to news reports, at least 875 people were arrested in major cities around the country on Thursday night, after around 40,000 police officers were deployed to quell protests and rioting over the killing.
President Emmanuel Macron has urged parents to keep their children off the streets, while in Paris, shots have been ransacked and cars set alight, despite the heavy police presence.
The officer who shot the youth has reportedly apologized to the family and has been officially charged with voluntary homicide.
Ms. Shamdasani noted that an investigation has been launched into the alleged voluntary homicide.
“This is a moment for the country to seriously address the deep issues of racism and discrimination in law enforcement”, she said.
Proportional use of force
“We also emphasize the importance of peaceful assembly. We call on the authorities to ensure use of force by police to address violent elements in demonstrations always respects the principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, non-discrimination, precaution and accountability.
She called for any allegations of disproportionate use of force by people exercising their rights to protest, to be swiftly investigated.
According to latest figures released by France’s police regulator, there were 37 deaths during police operations recorded in 2021, of whom ten were shot dead.
Surrounded by the glass and steel towers of London’s financial district, a low-rise construction made of re-used materials has sprung up to make the point we have collective power to tackle climate change.
The Greenhouse Theatre, billed as Britain’s first zero waste theatre, is staging plays in London over the summer months when long, light evenings reduce the need for electricity.
It is made entirely from recycled materials, reported Reuters.
A small theater made from recycled materials has been announced as Britain’s first zero-waste theatre. The aim is to show that we have the collective power to tackle climate change.
Its building is surrounded by the glass and steel towers of London’s Financial District.
According to the theatre’s 26-year-old artistic director Ollie Savage, it is the only zero-waste theater in the UK.
“We’re using the power of performance and storytelling to spark climate action among all the people who want to get involved,” Savage said.
The theater puts on plays in London during the summer months when the evenings are long and there is no need for lighting. The small portable structure is built from used lumber.
“Everything we use had a life before us. And once we’re done with it, we work very hard to make sure it continues to be used,” said Ollie Savage.
According to the artistic director, his target audience between the ages of 16 and 35 is very concerned about the environment. But young people are pessimistic that they can do anything about it. He wants to show them that sustainable development can be easier and more fun than they think.
“Our goal is to help people feel more connected to nature and each other,” said Ollie Savage.
Laura Kent is one of four actresses in the play. As soon as she finds out about the existence of the theater, she expresses her desire to join it.
“I try to lead a relatively natural lifestyle. But I realized it’s not that easy, especially with a limited budget. It’s really hard for new theater producers. That’s why I was so excited when I saw that this theater existed. I wanted to learn the ways they manage and it’s very encouraging because it means anyone can do it,” explained Kent.
The audience is in a circle, seated on wooden benches, while the cast performs the play using few props and no microphones.
“I think it’s a really innovative idea. You get the feeling that everything is handmade and that adds magic to the place,” said onlooker Stephen Greaney.
The small theater space will host a further 15 shows during the London summer season.
