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Extra-Time Elation: Spain’s La Roja Edges Past Hosts Germany in EURO 2024 Nail-Biter

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Photocredit: Screenshot from RFEF -

Spain secured a spot in the EURO 2024 semi-finals by defeating Germany with a late header from Mikel Merino. The intense quarter-final match was full of excitement and last minute heroics keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the end.

The game started with both teams displaying attacking skills, highlighted by Pedri‘s early shot that tested Neuer. Unfortunately, Pedri had to leave the field due to an injury, allowing Dani Olmo to step in and make an impact.

Throughout the half Spain dominated possession and created scoring chances with Yamal and Olmo getting close to scoring. Germany also showed strength through Havertz‘s header well saved by Unai Simón. The deadlock was broken in the half when Olmo calmly scored a low shot giving Spain the lead and prompting strategic changes, from the German side.

Julian Nagelsmann‘s tactical changes brought a dynamic to the German offense as Niclas Füllkrug and Florian Wirtz posed challenges for the Spanish defense. Füllkrug’s header and Wirtz’s late equalizer heightened the tension of the game pushing it into time with both teams tied at 1-1.

The extra period saw opportunities on both sides with Oyarzabal and Wirtz coming to scoring before the crucial moment unfolded. Merinos powerful header from Olmos cross sparked jubilation among Spanish fans while breaking German hearts. Despite Carvajal‘s red card Spain managed to secure a hard earned victory solidifying their spot in the semi-finals.

Dani Olmo’s outstanding performance earned him the Vivo Player of the Match title, with his goal, assist and defensive contributions playing a role in Spain’s triumph. Post game reactions from coaches and players underscored the intensity and spirit of the match, with Luis de la Fuente commending his team’s determination and Nagelsmann acknowledging Germany’s display despite defeat.

The showdown between Spain and Germany, at EURO 2024 will go down in history as a quarter-final clash that epitomized European football at its finest. The game displayed flashes of brilliance, exciting moments and a strong sense of determination, highlighting the beauty and unpredictability of soccer.

Yemen: UN chief demands release of aid workers held by Houthis

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United Nations News
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Yemen: UN chief demands release of aid workers held by Houthis

Four additional UN staff members have been detained and held incommunicado by the de facto authorities since 2021 and 2023, without access to their families or their respective organizations and agencies. 

“This is an alarming development that raises serious concerns about the Houthis’ commitment to a negotiated solution to the conflict. The United Nations condemns all arbitrary detention of civilians,” Mr. Guterres said. “I demand the immediate and unconditional release of all detained UN personnel.”

The UN chief’s call came as he met with his Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, in Jordan. They discussed recent developments in Yemen including an escalating crackdown on civic space by the de facto authorities that reportedly led to the arbitrary detention of dozens of UN, NGO, and aid workers.

UN and civil society targeted

The Special Envoy’s Office noted that the four staff held ahead of the latest detentions worked for the UN education, scientific and cultural agency, UNESCO, and the UN human rights office, OHCHR.

The 13 UN staff detained over the past few days included six from OHCHR, one each from the Office of the Special Envoy (OSESGY), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the UN World Food Programme (WFP), UN World Health Organization (WHO) and two from UNESCO. At least 11 civil society workers were also arrested.

In the meeting between the Secretary-General and Mr. Grundberg, the Special Envoy briefed on efforts to secure the release of the personnel including a meeting on Monday with Mohamed Abdul Salam, the Houthi chief negotiator, in Muscat. He also met senior Omani officials to solicit support. 

“We are working diligently to secure the immediate and unconditional release of our detained personnel through all available channels,” Mr. Grundberg told UN News, as he called for the release of all arrested NGO workers as well. 

During their encounter, the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy also stressed that the United Nations stands in solidarity with all humanitarian workers and civil society actors who play a crucial role in providing life-saving assistance and support to the people of Yemen. 

Human rights chief’s call

Echoing the call to immediately release all the detainees, UN human rights chief Volker Türk expressed deep concern about the conditions in which they were being held, while also rejecting false allegations about their activities.

Two of the UN personnel detained last week are women, along with at least one other female civil society worker, continued the High Commissioner for Human Rights, as he insisted on an immediate end to “any further targeting” of human rights and aid workers in Yemen.

The UN human rights office has been working in Yemen since 2012, Mr. Türk noted, “for the promotion and protection of the rights of all the people of Yemen, including through engagement with the de facto authorities”.

Humanitarian crisis impact

The development has added to deepening concerns about the humanitarian emergency in Yemen where needs remain huge.

After nearly a decade of conflict between the internationally recognized government in and despite truce conditions largely holding, aid teams have repeatedly warned that 17.6 million people – half of the population in Yemen – face food insecurity and nearly half of all children under five suffer from moderate to severe stunting. 

According to the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, 4.5 million people remain displaced across the Arabian peninsula country, many of whom have experienced multiple displacements over several years, as a result of more than nine years of conflict between the Government of Yemen and the de facto Houthi authority in control of the capital, Sana’a, and other areas of the country.

Top relief official’s plea

According to UN’s top relief official, the recent wave of detentions could have a negative impact on an already dire situation. 

“Aid workers are neutral in a conflict. Their safety and the safety of the civilians they serve must be guaranteed,” said Martin Griffiths, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator to UN News. Ahead of the Muslim celebration of Eid al-Adha beginning this weekend, he added: “My heart goes out to the families of the detained personnel who fear for the wellbeing of their loved ones instead of celebrating Eid al-Adha together.” 

Peace moves

In his briefing to the Security Council last month, UN Special Envoy Grundberg noted that the warring parties had agreed to a number of commitments in December including a nationwide ceasefire and an inclusive political process under UN auspices. 

However, he warned that announcements by Ansar Allah – the official name for the Houthi movement – to expand the scope of attacks on Red Sea shipping were a “worrisome provocation in an already volatile situation”.

On Tuesday, Mr. Grundberg told UN News that the recent arrests hinder his efforts and erode trust. However, he noted that his efforts to convene the parties to address key issues related to the economy, a nationwide ceasefire and the launch of talks to reach a sustainable political settlement will continue for the benefit of the Yemeni people.

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Keir Starmer Secures Historic Labour Victory, Ending 14 Years of Conservative Rule in UK

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London – In a seismic shift in British politics, the Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, has achieved a resounding victory in the UK general election, bringing an end to 14 years of Conservative governance. The results, which had been foreshadowed by months of polling, have given Labour its strongest parliamentary majority since 2001.

Labour secured an impressive 412 seats, far surpassing the 326 required for an absolute majority and more than doubling their 2019 performance. This landslide victory marks a dramatic turnaround for the party and signals a clear desire for change among the British electorate.

Upon learning of his victory in his central London constituency, Starmer declared, “The people have spoken, and they are ready for change.” This statement encapsulates the mood of a nation seemingly eager to embark on a new political chapter.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Keir Starmer Secures Historic Labour Victory, Ending 14 Years of Conservative Rule in UK
Photo credit: UK @RoyalFamily

The Conservative Party, in stark contrast, suffered its worst defeat since its founding in 1834. The Tories lost at least 250 seats compared to their 2019 performance under Boris Johnson, ending up with a mere 121 seats. This historic collapse prompted the outgoing Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, to apologize to “those Conservatives who have lost despite their dedication” while congratulating Starmer on his victory.

The election also saw significant shifts for other parties. The Liberal Democrats, led by Ed Davey, emerged as the third-largest party with 71 seats, a gain of 63 from the previous election. The Scottish National Party (SNP) experienced a dramatic decline, securing only nine seats, a loss of 38 compared to 2019. Sinn Fein, the Irish republican party, maintained its seven seats.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Keir Starmer Secures Historic Labour Victory, Ending 14 Years of Conservative Rule in UK
Keir Starmer Secures Historic Labour Victory, Ending 14 Years of Conservative Rule in UK 3

In a surprising development, the nationalist-populist Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, entered Parliament with four seats, exceeding all poll predictions. The Green Party quadrupled its representation, winning four seats in total.

Starmer’s first address as Prime Minister was filled with promises of change and renewal. “We did it!” he exclaimed, emphasizing that Britons would wake up to find “a weight has finally been lifted from the shoulders of this great nation.” He stressed the urgency of rebuilding trust in politics and committed to serving all citizens, regardless of their voting preferences.

The new Prime Minister outlined his government’s priorities, including improving security on streets and borders, rebuilding infrastructure, and enhancing opportunities in education and employment. “Changing a country isn’t as easy as pressing a button,” Starmer cautioned, “We will rebuild the United Kingdom, brick by brick.”

Rishi Sunak, in his farewell speech, acknowledged the clear signal for change sent by the electorate. “I have heard your anger and disappointment. I take responsibility for these results,” he stated. Sunak announced his intention to step down as Conservative Party leader, but not immediately, allowing time for a formal process to choose his successor.

The election also marked a personal triumph for Nigel Farage, who finally won a parliamentary seat on his eighth attempt, representing Clacton-on-Sea. Farage hailed his party’s performance as “extraordinary” and vowed to fill what he sees as a “huge void in the center-right.”

In regional developments, Sinn Fein became the largest Northern Irish party in the British Parliament for the first time, maintaining its seven seats while the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) fell to four. In Scotland, the SNP lost its dominance, dropping from 48 seats in 2019 to just 8, with Labour making significant gains. Wales saw the Conservatives lose all representation, with Labour dominating the results.

As the United Kingdom enters this new political era under Starmer’s leadership, the country faces significant challenges. The incoming government must address economic concerns, social policies, and perhaps most critically, work to restore public trust in the political system. The scale of Labour’s victory suggests a strong mandate for change, but the real test lies in translating this electoral success into effective governance in the years to come.

UK parliamentary elections: Labour heavily favoured, Rishi Sunak Faces Imminent Defeat

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EuropeanTimes
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By David Hunt from Warwickshire, UK - [1], CC BY 2.0 - The Palace of Westminster in London, home of the House of Commons.

ELECTIONS-Britons vote this Thursday to renew the 650 seats in the House of Commons. Polls across the UK are unanimous: Rishi Sunak is unlikely to remain Prime Minister after Friday.

As Britons vote in Thursday’s general election, a new chapter in the country’s history is set to begin. The Conservative Party, after 14 tumultuous years in power, is facing severe unpopularity.

The question now is not whether the Conservatives will lose, but by how much Labour will win and the extent of Rishi Sunak’s defeat, as he has failed to gain any significant momentum after 20 months in office. Approximately 46 million voters are expected to cast their ballots to renew the 650 seats in the House of Commons. Each MP is elected through a single-member district plurality voting system. Polling stations will be open from 7 AM to 10 PM.

Numerous Crises Since 2010

From Brexit turmoil and managing the Covid-19 pandemic to soaring prices, increased poverty, an overstretched public health system, and a revolving door of Prime Ministers, the succession of crises since 2010 has created a strong desire for change. In recent days, even Conservatives have admitted they are fighting not to win but to limit Labour’s promised majority.

Barring any surprises, it will be Keir Starmer, a 61-year-old former human rights lawyer, who will be tasked by King Charles III on Friday to form a government. Starmer has shifted his party back to the center-left and promised a return to “serious” governance.

For Rishi Sunak, the fifth Conservative Prime Minister in 14 years, this election marks the end of a campaign that has become an ordeal. Despite trying to take the initiative by calling for an early election in July rather than waiting until autumn, the disastrous image of his announcement in the pouring rain without an umbrella lingered, leaving his party seemingly unprepared.

Sunak, a 44-year-old former investment banker and finance minister, has made numerous missteps and appeared politically tone-deaf. His strategy largely involved accusing Labour of planning to raise taxes, and in recent days, warning of the risks of a “super majority” that would leave Labour without any checks and balances, effectively conceding defeat.

In contrast, Keir Starmer has highlighted his modest beginnings—his mother was a nurse, and his father was a toolmaker—standing in stark contrast to his multimillionaire opponent. To counter right-wing attacks and distance himself from Jeremy Corbyn’s costly program, Starmer has promised strict management of public finances with no tax increases. He aims to revive growth through stability, state interventions, and infrastructure investments. However, he has cautioned that he does not have a “magic wand,” and Britons, according to polls, have tempered expectations for significant change.

Ukraine: UN report reveals ‘horrific toll’ of Russian attacks

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United Nations News
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Ukraine: UN report reveals ‘horrific toll’ of Russian attacks

Released on Wednesday by the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU), the report explained the hardships civilians faced, including physical and long-term socioeconomic harm.

It also emphasised the human rights impact of Russia’s renewed large-scale attacks on critical energy infrastructure in March, the ground offensive in the Kharkiv region in May and other developments in occupied and Government-controlled areas of Ukraine.

Relentless attacks

“With May having the highest monthly number of civilian casualties in nearly a year, fighting this spring took a horrific toll on civilians, particularly in Kharkiv region and city,” said Danielle Bell, head of the HRMMU.

“The relentless attacks resulted in tragic loss of life, displacement, and destruction of homes and businesses,” she added.

According to the report, between 1 March and 31 May, at least 436 civilians were killed and a further 1,760 injured as a result of conflict-related violence. Casualties included six media workers, 26 employees of healthcare institutions, five humanitarian workers, and 28 emergency service workers.

It added that the majority (91 per cent) of the casualties occurred in territory controlled by Ukraine, and nine per cent in Russian-occupied territory.

In the reporting period, Russian authorities reported that 91 civilians were killed and 455 injured in the Russia from attacks launched by Ukrainian armed forces, primarily in Belgorod, Briansk, and Kursk regions.

Powerful weapons

UN monitors identified the use of powerful air-dropped bombs and missiles in populated areas and at least five instances of successive attacks on the same location, just as first responders arrived on the scene, causing casualties.

The spring escalation in hostilities also saw Russian armed forces launch their “largest campaign of attacks” against critical energy infrastructure since the winter of 2022-23, killing and injuring civilians, while also affecting millions of people across the country with power cuts, the report said.

Rippling effects

The attacks also had rippling consequences on water supplies, mobile and internet access, and public transportation, Ms. Bell noted.

“The full impact of the attacks on energy infrastructure will only be clear this upcoming winter when the reduced power-generating capacity of Ukraine could leave many without access to heating and other services necessary for their survival,” she said.

Among other findings, the report noted that the Russian armed forces pressured civilians in occupied territory to get Russian citizenship to receive medical services and keep their property rights.

The report will be presented to the Geneva-based Human Rights Council on 9 July.

UN Assembly President visits Ukraine

On Wednesday, the President of the UN General Assembly completed a two-day official visit to Kyiv, where he met with several official leaders including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In his discussions Assembly President Dennis Francis stressed that the Russian aggression against Ukraine violated the UN Charter.

He reiterated the General Assembly’s commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.

Mr. Francis also noted that the Organization has worked closely with the Government, local authorities and international partners to rebuild Ukraine from the destruction.

“I would like to think the darkest of the night is behind Ukraine, not ahead of it,” he said, expressing hope that the recent Summit for Peace in Ukraine would bring further progress in the near future.

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The European Prosecutor’s Office has brought charges against a Bulgarian milk producer

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Newsroom
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Photo: Laura Kövesi. Source: European Chief Prosecutor’s Office

The European Prosecutor’s Office announced that it has filed charges against a Bulgarian dairy farmer who received funds from the EU fraudulently, BTA reported.

The accused submitted forged documents in order to be able to build a milk processing workshop with European funds. He has asked the State Fund “Agriculture” for 474,000 euros for this purpose. For the advance payment of half of the contract amount, the accused presented a bank guarantee, which was rejected by the paying agency due to non-compliance with the requirements. He later submitted more forged documents to make it appear that the necessary changes had been made. With this fraud, the accused received half of the project funds (237,000 euros). The investigation found that the EU-funded works had not been carried out.

If found guilty, the accused could be sentenced to between two and eight years in prison, the EU prosecutor’s office said.

Note: Laura Codruța Kövesi is the former chief prosecutor of Romania’s National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA in Romanian), a position she held from 2013 to 9 July 2018. Prior to this, between 2006 and 2012 Laura Kövesi was the Prosecutor General of Romania, attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice. She was the first woman and the youngest Prosecutor General in Romania’s history. In October 2019, Laura Kövesi was confirmed by the European Parliament and the Council as the first European Chief Prosecutor to head the recently created European Public Prosecutor Office (EPPO), EU Regulation (EU) 2017/1939.

Global Crisis of Physical Inactivity: Nearly 1.8 Billion Adults at Risk of Disease, Warns WHO

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silhouette of three women running on grey concrete road
Photo by Fitsum Admasu on Unsplash

Geneva, 5 July 2024 — In a stark warning from the World Health Organization (WHO), new data reveal that nearly one-third of adults globally, approximately 1.8 billion people, failed to meet recommended levels of physical activity in 2022. This alarming statistic marks a significant increase in physical inactivity, rising from 26% in 2010 to 31% in 2022, highlighting a worsening global health crisis.

The study, conducted in collaboration with academic researchers and published in The Lancet Global Health journal, underscores the widespread prevalence of a sedentary lifestyle and its dire consequences. The WHO recommends adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. Insufficient physical activity is linked to a higher risk of severe health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases (such as heart attacks and strokes), type 2 diabetes, dementia, and cancers like breast and colon cancer.

“If this trend continues unchecked, the rate of physical inactivity could rise to 35% by 2030, further derailing global health goals,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “We must urgently renew our commitment to promoting physical activity, prioritizing strong policies and increasing funding to reverse this troubling trend.”

Regional Disparities and Vulnerable Groups

The report lays bare significant regional disparities in physical activity levels. The highest rates of inactivity were recorded in high-income Asia Pacific regions (48%) and South Asia (45%), with other regions ranging from 28% in high-income Western countries to as low as 14% in Oceania. Furthermore, the data reveal noteworthy gender and age disparities: 34% of women are inactive compared to 29% of men, with some countries exhibiting a gender gap as wide as 20 percentage points. Additionally, individuals over 60 years old are notably less active than younger adults, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions for older populations.

“Physical inactivity is a silent threat to global health, significantly contributing to the burden of chronic diseases,” said Dr. Rüdiger Krech, Director of Health Promotion at WHO. “To tackle this issue, we must innovate in motivating people to become more active, taking into account factors like age, environment, and cultural background. By making physical activity accessible, affordable, and enjoyable, we can drastically reduce the risk of noncommunicable diseases and foster a healthier, more productive population.”

Signs of Hope and the Path Forward

While the overall picture is concerning, there are glimmers of progress. Nearly half of the countries analyzed have shown improvements in physical activity levels over the past decade. Moreover, 22 countries are on track to meet the global target of reducing inactivity by 15% by 2030 if current trends persist.

In response to these findings, the WHO is urging countries to intensify efforts in policy implementation to encourage and facilitate physical activity. Suggested measures include promoting grassroots and community sports, active recreation, and transport options like walking, cycling, and the use of public transport.

“Promoting physical activity transcends individual lifestyle choices; it demands a whole-of-society approach,” affirmed Dr. Fiona Bull, Head of the WHO Unit for Physical Activity. “Creating environments that make physical activity easier and safer will help ensure everyone can enjoy its numerous health benefits.”

To address this growing crisis, collective efforts from governments, nongovernmental organizations, and community stakeholders are vital. Enhanced investments in innovative strategies are necessary to reach the least active individuals and reduce access inequalities.

The WHO’s urgent call to action aims to reverse the rising tide of physical inactivity by fostering a global environment conducive to active, healthy living. Achieving this requires a concerted effort that spans policy reform, community engagement, and individual commitment to embrace a more active lifestyle for the benefit of global public health.

Russia – Three Jehovah’s Witnesses sentenced to 78, 74 and 27 months in prison

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Willy Fautre
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Courtesy of Jehovah’s Witnesses

Gevorg Yeritsyan, a Jehovah’s Witness sentenced to 6 years and 2 months in prison at the end of June, declared in court  at the end of his trial:

“Jehovah’s Witnesses have faced persecution at different times and in different countries. But what’s interesting is that after the persecution they were always exonerated. This was the case for Witnesses persecuted in Nazi Germany (link) and under the Soviet Union.”

“After the end of the Soviet rule in 1991 the Administrative Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses (JW) in Russia was officially registered. JW were rehabilitated and deemed victims of unjustified repression against believers after Boris Yeltsin’s decree in 1996.” (Religion During the Russian Ukrainian Conflict, 2019, p. 226)

The court decision

On June 26, Nikolay Egorov, judge of the Novocherkassk City Court of the Rostov Region, sentenced three Jehovah’s Witnesses (two men; one woman) to prison for up to 6.5 years.

Judge Egorov ignored evidence that included a statement by Russia’s own Foreign Ministry:

“Members of a liquidated organization may worship independently, including as part of religious groups that do not require registration.” The two men already spent more than 22 months in pretrial detention, while the woman over 16 months.

  • Garegin Khachaturyan: 6.5 years
  • Gevorg Yeritsyan: 6 years and 2 months
  • Lyubov Galitsyna: 2 years and 3 months

“Although the Supreme Court liquidated the legal entities of Jehovah’s Witnesses in April 2017, Russia’s Foreign Ministry has clearly stated that Jehovah’s Witnesses are free to continue to worship individually or with others”, said Jarrod Lopes, a spokesperson for world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

“The 2017 decision is being shamelessly abused by local authorities to strip Jehovah’s Witnesses of their constitutional right to peacefully worship. This court-sanctioned religious discrimination is a cold heartless attack on Witness families, where spouses are separated for years and innocent children, like those of Garegin and Gevorg, have their fathers taken from them at a very critical time when they need their father’s love, guidance, and support more than ever. 

We hope soon the authorities will likewise see the value of devout Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russian society, release those in prison, and allow them to freely worship with their families as well as to return to promoting the morals and neighborly love that will further unite and beautify their communities.”

Case History

  • August 11, 2022. At 6 a.m., armed security forces raided 10 homes of Witnesses in Novocherkassk (Rostov region), including the village of Hrushevskaya. Officers confiscated Bibles, electronic devices, money, and bank cards. All were taken for interrogation. Garegin Khachaturyan and Gevorg Yeritsyan were court-ordered to pretrial detention
  • August 16. Returning from vacation, Lyubov Galitsyna discovered she had been summoned for interrogation and immediately reported. Anticipating a possible arrest, she took essentials and medicines with her
  • August 17. Novocherkassk City Court ordered Galitsyna to pretrial detention. Some 30 fellow believers risked their freedom to come to the court to support her
  • January 18, 2023. She appealed for release from pretrial detention. She reminded the court that she never had any intention to hide or flee, citing that she quickly reported when called for interrogation. She also explained that her diabetes and hypertension have worsened while in detention. The court denied her appeal
  • August 2, 2023. Her leg grew numb. She requested exam and seeked release from detention
  • September 20, 2023. Criminal trial began
  • December 25, 2023. She was released and placed under house arrest. While in pretrial detention, she received over 4,000 letters of support from friends
  • February 19, 2024. Surveillance video of meetings of Jehovah’s Witnesses was examined. Experts testified that they heard nothing that could be construed as extremist
  • March 22, 2024. Sergey Astapov, Doctor of Philosophy, Head of the Department of Philosophy of Religion and Religious Studies of the Institute of Philosophy and Socio-Political Sciences (Southern Federal University), testified the Witnesses are law-abiding citizens and asserted that there can be no extremist calls from Jehovah’s Witnesses simply for devoutly following Biblical doctrines. (link to Astapov’s academic bio)
  • May 14, 2024. The defense asked the court to consider the statement by Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted above (link to more information), as well as the European Court of Human Rights decision (LRO Taganrog and others v. the Russian Federation) that declared the 2017 ban unjustified and unlawful (link to summary of decision)
  • June 26, 2024. All three were convicted and sentenced. The men returned to their respective detention centers. Lyubov Galitsyna’s sentence was considered satisfied due to her time in pretrial detention and under house arrest

Biographies of the convicts

  • Garegin Khachaturyan: 56 years old
    • Born in Azerbaijan
    • 1994, became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses
    • 1995, moved to Russia
    • 2008, married Ksenia. They have a son named Timothy
  • Gevorg Yeritsyan: 37 years old
    • 2010, married Melina
    • 2013, became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. They have two minor children
  • Lyubov Galitsyna: 68 years old
    • 1997, became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses
    • Has grandchildren from her two adult children
    • Widowed in 2015

Persecution in numbers | Russia and Crimea

  • 2,102 homes of Jehovah’s Witnesses raided since 2017 ban
  • 811 men and women criminally charged for their belief in God
  • 134 men and women in prison as of today; a total of 427 have spent some time behind bars since 2017
  • 506 men and women have been added to Russia’s federal list of extremists/terrorists

See 128 documented cases in HRWF Database of FORB Prisoners

Hungary: EU’s Most Corrupt Nation Faces Scrutiny as it Takes the Presidency of the Council

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Budapest – Hungary remains the European Union’s most corrupt country, according to the 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) released last January by Transparency International. Despite some judicial reforms aimed at securing EU funds, systemic corruption continues to undermine Hungary’s governance, raising significant concerns as the country became the new chairing member state Presiding the Council of the EU as of July 1, 2024.

Hungary Reigns in the Lowest Rankings

Hungary found itself at the bottom of the list for the year, in a row among EU member states with a score of 42 points on the Corruption Perceptions Index’s 100 point scale, where 0 represents the highest level and 100 the lowest level of perceived corruption. While the country improved slightly in global rankings, rising from 77th to 76th place among 180 countries, this minor advancement does little to counteract the perception and reality of widespread corruption domestically.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Hungary: EU's Most Corrupt Nation Faces Scrutiny as it Takes the Presidency of the Council
Hungary: EU's Most Corrupt Nation Faces Scrutiny as it Takes the Presidency of the Council 8

The country report, from Transparency International Hungary, released in Budapest, sheds light on the issue of corruption. While some reforms have been implemented, they are deemed insufficient to restore the rule of law and effectively combat corruption.

Judicial Reforms: A Drop in the Ocean

The government of Hungary has made some changes, to its system, due to the influence of the European Union. The EU linked the allocation of cohesion policy funds to these reforms. In December 2023, €10.2 billion were unlocked by the European Commission as a result of these changes representing the disbursement of EU funds after growing worries about Hungary’s lack of adherence to the rule of law.

However Transparency International Hungary has highlighted that these actions fall short in ensuring autonomy. The authority and capabilities of the established Integrity Authority and Anti Corruption Task Force are deemed inadequate in addressing corruption effectively. The governments efforts, such, as enhancing protections for business secrets and imposing obstacles to accessing public interest data are viewed more as steps, than holistic remedies.

Political Motivations Behind the Scrutiny of Transparency International Hungary

The investigation conducted by the Sovereignty Protection Office (SPO) into Transparency International Hungary has further complicated the issues surrounding corruption and governance, in Hungary. Globally Transparency International has criticized this action believing it to be politically motivated to undermine the NGOs corruption activities. This investigation has sparked worries regarding the security of information, within the NGO putting their vital anti corruption work at risk. Hungarian data protection legislation must align with Article 2(1) and Recital (15) of the GDPR to uphold the supremacy of European law and the regulations within the GDPR. According to rulings from the European Court of Justice, Member States are required to adhere strictly to GDPR provisions without deviation.

Economic and Regional Context

Hungary’s economic situation reflects the challenges it faces with corruption. When looking at GDP per person, Hungary falls behind neighboring countries doing better, than Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania within the EU. In comparison, Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia demonstrate performance and anti corruption efforts.

Although Hungary has a rate of investment, this has not led to economic growth. This suggests that the funds may not have been used effectively due to activities related to public procurement. Transparency International Hungary points out that despite some improvements, in reducing single bid tenders, the public procurement system still struggles with influence and lacks market competition.

Hungary’s Role as Chair of the Council of the EU

As Hungary takes over the presidency of the European Commission, these matters become more important. The leadership position of the country raises concerns, about how various EU priorities, those concerning rule of law and corruption efforts, will be addressed. The examination of Hungary’s actions and their harmony, with EU principles is expected to increase.

Hungary’s standing problems with corruption, along with its prominent position in the EU, underscore the pressing importance of real change and responsibility. While some slight enhancements have been noted in the CPI, they are overshadowed by the ongoing battles against deep-rooted corruption, the non and the absence of judicial autonomy. As Hungary takes on a leading role within the European Commission, global observers will be closely monitoring to see if it can effectively address its corruption issues and pave the way, for transparency and governance.

References:

  1. Transparency International. (2024). Transparency International Condemns Hungary Investigation.
  2. AP News. (2024). Hungary Government Investigates Transparency International.
  3. Transparency International. (2024). Corruption Perception Index.

Gaza: ‘high time’ for ceasefire and hostage release, says Guterres

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United Nations News
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Gaza: ‘high time’ for ceasefire and hostage release, says Guterres

Speaking in Jordan at an international conference prompted by the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, Mr. Guterres insisted that after more than eight months of intense hostilities, “the horror must stop”.

“I welcome the peace initiative recently outlined by President Biden and urge all parties to seize this opportunity and come to an agreement,” the UN chief said. “And I call on all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law. This includes facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid both into and inside Gaza, as they have committed. All available routes into Gaza must be operational – and the land routes are absolutely crucial.”

On Monday, the United States-drafted text urged Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal announced on 31 May by President Joe Biden that has already been accepted by Israel, according to the White House.

The text urges both parties to fully implement the terms of the proposal “without delay and without condition”. It was adopted by a large majority with 14 votes in favour and Russia abstaining – choosing not to exercise its veto power.

Standing by UNRWA

Highlighting the key role played in the battered enclave by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA – which has been attacked and ostracized by Israeli leaders – the Secretary-General insisted that its presence “will remain critical not only during the conflict, but afterwards”.

Latest reports from Gaza show that around 60 per cent of all residential buildings and at least 80 per cent of commercial facilities have been damaged by Israeli bombardment, the UN chief said, with health facilities and educational institutions reduced to rubble.

In addition, more than one million “deeply traumatized children in Gaza” need psychosocial support and the safety and hope their schools used to provide, Mr. Guterres said, before insisting that “only UNRWA has the capacity, skills, and networks needed to support the Palestinian people to face the immense challenge on health, on education and so much more.”

The head of UNRWA Phillipe Lazzarini confirmed once again during his remarks to the meeting that “there is no alternative” available to the skills and expertise of the organization he leads.

UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths reiterated that a permanent ceasefire is crucial. “Humanitarian aid must enter Gaza unobstructed to effectively address urgent needs”, he said.

Aid access obstacles endure

Echoing deep and repeated warning from humanitarians about the scale of the severe emergency across Gaza linked to the lack of aid access, the UN chief noted that “at least half of all humanitarian aid missions are denied access, impeded, or cancelled due to operational or security reasons”

In Geneva, meanwhile, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, expressed profound shock at the impact of the hostage release operation in Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp at the weekend.

OHCHR spokesperson Jeremy Laurence said that hundreds of Palestinians, – many of them civilians – were reportedly killed and injured and that the way the raid was conducted “in such a densely populated area seriously calls into question” whether Israeli forces respected the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution, as set out under the laws of war.

Actions ‘may amount to war crimes’

“Our Office is also deeply distressed that Palestinian armed groups continue to hold many hostages, most of them civilians, which is prohibited by international humanitarian law. Furthermore, by holding hostages in such densely populated areas, the armed groups doing so are putting the lives of Palestinian civilians, as well as the hostages themselves, at added risk from the hostilities”, Mr Laurence continued.

He said the actions carried out by both parties during Saturday’s assault “may amount to war crimes.”

The High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk welcomed Monday’s Security Council Resolution 2735 calling for a “full and complete ceasefire”, hostage releases and other phased moves including the exchange of prisoners held by Israel. 

“An immediate priority must be to ensure the full and unfettered flow of humanitarian aid to the desperate population of Gaza”, Mr. Laurence concluded.

‘Dying before their families’ eyes’ 

Separately, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned that almost 3,000 malnourished children are at risk of “dying before their families’ eyes” as the Rafah offensive cuts them off from treatment. This figure equates to approximately three-quarters of the children who were estimated to be receiving life-saving care prior to the escalating conflict in Rafah.

“Unless treatment can be quickly resumed for these 3,000 children, they are at immediate and serious risk of becoming critically ill, acquiring life-threatening complications, and joining the growing list of boys and girls who have been killed by this senseless, man-made deprivation,” said UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Adele Khodr.

The rising number of cases of malnutrition comes at the same time as treatment services are collapsing amid the ongoing military offensive in Gaza.

Malnourished children are at a heightened risk of catching diseases and suffering from other health issues due to limited access to safe water, sewage overflow, infrastructure damage, and a lack of hygiene items, according to UNICEF.

This risk is severely exacerbated by the reduced water production across Gaza. There is currently less than a quarter of water produced compared to the intensification of hostilities in October.

“Our warnings of mounting child deaths from a preventable combination of malnutrition, dehydration and disease should have mobilised immediate action to save children’s lives, and yet, this devastation continues,” Ms. Khodr said.

“With hospitals destroyed, treatments stopped and supplies scant, we are poising for more child suffering and deaths,” she added. 

 

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