Gaza: Rafah ground assault would increase risk of atrocity crimes

How to interact with a shy cat?

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Newsroom

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15 March 2024

Purring animals often appear confident and fearless. But in reality, they can be shy and fearful of their surroundings. There are several reasons for this, but sometimes it’s just their genetics. Other times it is due to a traumatic past. Fortunately, there are many ways you can interact with shy cats. When interacting with a shy cat, move slowly so as not to frighten it.

Create a comfortable environment that includes plenty of places to hide and keep loud noises to a minimum. Always wait for your cat to come to you and use soft, gentle tones when talking to her. Establishing a consistent routine will help your cat feel more comfortable, as will using treats every time the cat shows courage.

Shyness in cats manifests itself in different ways. Some fearful cats appear nervous and scared, while others go home where they feel safe. Even if you have created a safe and secure environment for your cat, it may not be enough to stop her from being afraid.

Why is my cat so shy?

There are many reasons why cats feel nervous and hesitant. It usually comes down to:

• Genetics: Some cats are naturally fearful.

• Upbringing: Cats that are not properly socialized can become shy and fearful of people.

• Past experiences: Trauma and abuse can make cats fearful and nervous.

Likewise, environmental factors can cause a purring friend to become shy and withdrawn. They include:

• Other pets in the home

• Loud noises

• Rampant children

• Moving to a new home

• Unfriendly owners

To ensure a comfortable and happy life for your cat, you may want to consider teaching it to be less shy and more confident when in your presence.

How to increase a cat’s confidence

With effective socialization techniques, you can boost your cat’s confidence so that she feels less shy and more comfortable around you. It is important to remember that it will not work for all cats. But you can make yours feel happier in their environment, regardless of their personality. To boost your cat’s confidence, try the following:

• Offer physical contact

• Create a routine

• Create a safe environment

• Provide places to hide

How to get a shy cat to trust you

Building a bond with your cat is a rewarding process. After all, this is probably why you chose your pet. But it’s not always easy to do, especially if you’re dealing with a shy cat.

However, all is not lost. With some time and patience, you can get your cat to trust you. Follow these steps to get started:

• Respect your cat’s space

• Don’t get angry with your cat no matter what it does. Yelling and scolding her will only scare her more.

• Watch body language

• Learn your cat’s limits

• Positive support – reward her with treats when she is braver and comes to you

How to get a shy cat to come to you

It’s only natural to want to pet and play with your cat. This is difficult to do when you have a shy cat, so you should encourage her to come to you when she feels comfortable. Maintain a quiet, calm presence at all times. In this way, your cat will start to feel less shy.

Motivate your cat to come to you with these easy methods:

• Sit quietly near your cat for a while, allowing her to sniff you.

• Talk to her in a calm, gentle way.

• Stand still if your cat approaches you. Sudden movements will scare her.

• Give your cat a treat after it approaches you. Gradually increase the amount of time it takes you to give your cat a treat.

• Gently toss a ball or other toy to play together.

• If your cat runs away, do not chase it. Try again when she seems calmer and less anxious.

Bringing an insecure cat out of its “shell” is rewarding, but not always possible. A shy cat can still be a good pet, but you will need to respect its boundaries and be gentle when interacting with it.

Illustrative Photo by Doğu Tuncer: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-of-a-domestic-cat-16112164/

More determined efforts needed to combat anti-Muslim prejudice amidst surge in hatred, OSCE says

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15 March 2024

Matteo Mecacci, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. (OSCE/Piotr Dziubak)

VALLETTA/WARSAW/ANKARA, 15 March 2024 – Amidst an increase in prejudice and violence against Muslims in a growing number of countries, greater efforts are needed to build dialogue and counter anti-Muslim hatred, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe said in a statement on today’s International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

The Chair-in-Office of the OSCE, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta Ian Borg stated that “On this day, we are reminded of our collective duty to counter prejudice and embrace diversity” emphasising that “Our strength lies in our unity and our unwavering resolve to foster societies where dialogue prevails over confrontation, understanding over fear and tolerance over prejudice – a society where fundamental freedoms and human rights are protected and enjoyed by all.” Minister Borg called on all participating States “to intensify commitments and actions towards this crucial endeavour, striving to nurture an environment where every person can live free from hate and discrimination.”

Hatred against people from specific religious or belief communities rarely takes place in isolation, often going hand in hand with other forms of intolerance. Violence and discrimination do not only harm the individuals and communities concerned, but can also undermine security across the OSCE region, with tensions potentially escalating into wider conflicts.

There has been an upsurge in hatred against Muslims especially since the renewed outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East in October last year, with online and offline hate speech, threats and violence having a negative impact on Muslim communities, particularly women and girls. OSCE states have recognized the need for political leaders and parliamentarians to reject and condemn manifestations of racism, xenophobia, and intolerance against Muslims and other religious groups, while continuing to respect freedom of expression.

“Negative stereotypes and acts of intolerance and discrimination against Muslims have increased in recent years, making it all the more important to take urgent action and ensure we avoid stigmatisation or inflammatory rhetoric,” said ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci. “At the same time, we are encouraged by the growing recognition that more dialogue and understanding are needed. I am convinced this must remain a crucial contribution to successfully counter prejudice and anti-Muslim hatred.”

All OSCE participating States have committed to combating discrimination and hate crime, and it is the primary responsibility of governments to ensure all citizens are safe, whatever their background, and to promote respect and dialogue. Supporting countries across the OSCE region in combating anti-Muslim hate crime is a key area of ODIHR’s work, but while data on Anti-Muslim hatred is available in ODIHR’s hate crime database, many victims across the OSCE area are reluctant to report their experiences to the authorities.

Victims of hate often turn to civil society organizations to report a crime, seek support, and access the services they need. Through genuine collaboration with civil society, states can develop efficient and targeted activities to tackle hate crime and meet the differing needs of individual victims.

Freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental human right that states the right of each individual to have, adopt, or leave a religion or belief. At its core is the understanding that respecting our differences is the only way for us to live together peacefully. Against this backdrop, dialogue and understanding between religions and cultures emerge as a pivotal instrument, offering a platform for open, respectful exchanges that transcend religious boundaries. Through these meaningful interactions, we can discover common ground, appreciate our differences, and forge an inclusive and harmonious path forward.

The Personal Representative of the Chair-in-Office on Combating Intolerance and Discrimination against Muslims, Ambassador Evren Dagdelen Akgun, noted that “Cases of deliberate attempts to tarnish the sanctity of Islam, of Muslims being stereotyped, attacked; instances of their beliefs belittled or culture represented as a threat and justified in the guise of security concerns are widespread, even normalized in some countries.” She underlined that “efforts to address these problems in their entirety will not only contribute to harmonious societies but also to international peace.” Dagdelen Akgun urged all participating states to search for ways to effectively implement their commitments.

Acknowledging the discrimination and hatred many Muslims face worldwide, the United Nations has declared March 15 the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. All OSCE states have committed to fighting prejudice, intolerance and discrimination against Muslims and members of other religions.

How to Write a Perfect Home Health Care Business Plan?

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15 March 2024

How to Write a Perfect Home Health Care Business Plan? — Medical workers, health care – artistic interpretation. Image credit: Freepik, free license

The population of the world is aging. The World Health Organization estimates that by 2030 one in six people will be over 60.

The home health care sector is complex, with many layers of issues. These range from staffing and licensing to liability concerns. You’ll still need a business strategy to help you navigate the challenges of this industry and to focus on providing quality care.

Medical workers, health care – artistic interpretation. Image credit: Freepik, free license

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Why do you need to have a Business Plan for your Home Health Care Company?

Writing a business proposal is essential when you are starting a healthcare company. This ensures you can think beyond your own expertise as a healthcare professional, and that you will be able to manage the day-to-day operation, billing and insurance snafus and large startup costs.

With the best intentions and extensive knowledge, you can enter into this industry. You will not be able to run a successful company without a business plan.

Why do Home Care Businesses need Plans?

It is important to write up a business plan regardless of the industry as it gives you a roadmap to where your business currently stands and where it could potentially head in the future.

If you are seeking a business loan or external funding to cover your startup expenses, having a well-thought-out business plan is crucial for influencing an investor’s decision. A good business plan will show investors:

Your business has cash flow
There is steady growth in the industry
A strong client base is available

By covering these three areas, you’ll be well positioned to receive working capital to help you set your home care business up for success.

How to craft an Effective Home Health Care Business Plan?

This guide will highlight specific areas you should consider when drafting a business plan for home health care. For more information on creating a detailed business plan, you can view our step by step guide.

This question will help you to create a road map for your business. It goes beyond describing what type of home-health care business you plan to open. This is a chance to describe your core values and long-term goals, as well as the impact you want to have on your clients’ lives.

You will probably offer a wide range of services as a home healthcare business. Will you focus on a particular area, such as post-surgery or elder care? Will you provide a broader range of services, such as medication management?

It’s also worth noting if you can manage special requests from clients based on their individual needs.

Identify your target audience

Home health care services that specialize in elderly or disabled care will serve this specific market. A home health care service that offers post-operative care or palliative services would appeal to a completely different market.

The Census Bureau can provide you with a good estimate of the number of seniors in the area that you intend to serve.

Understanding insurance and pricing

It’s a good idea to compare prices with other home care providers in the area before you price your service. You can use this information to set a benchmark for your own business and position it based on its value or quality.

Home health care may be covered by different insurance plans. Some offer comprehensive coverage, while others cover only specific treatments and services. To ensure that your services qualify for reimbursement, you should be aware of the limitations and requirements for each insurance plan. For example, some plans require prior authorization, while others only require a doctor’s referral.

Staffing and licensing requirements

The health care sector is particularly affected by worker shortages. You can expect fewer customers, a lower level of service, and possibly higher employee costs if you don’t have the right number or employees. You need a documented plan which takes into consideration the roles of employees, how many will be needed, and potential expenses.

Licenses and permits are also required for home health care businesses. The requirements may differ depending on where you live and what services you intend to provide. It’s important to know the local requirements so that you can avoid legal problems in the future. It may be helpful to your internal management to list the agencies and regulations that govern your business at all levels: local, state and federal.

Create a Plan for Risk Management

Consider conducting a comprehensive risk assessment, taking into consideration your location, the services you offer, and the qualifications of your employees. After identifying potential risks, describe what you will do to reduce or eliminate them. You can, for example, implement employee training to prevent fraud or malpractice or invest in insurance to cover your business against liability claims.

This step-by-step framework will guide you to create a successful business plan for home care. However, some adjustments may be needed in terms of pre-planning or research.

A well-supported business plan can be a great asset when you want to convince lenders to finance your home care business.

“Therapy” dogs work at Istanbul Airport

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Newsroom

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15 March 2024

“Therapy” dogs have started working at Istanbul Airport, Anadolu Agency reports.

The pilot project, which launched this month in Turkey at Istanbul Airport, aims to ensure a calm and pleasant journey for passengers experiencing flight-related stress with the help of their four-legged friends.

As part of the pilot project, five specially trained “therapist dogs” started working at the airport.

The dogs, which are in special aprons, move around the airport accompanied by their trainers. Passengers stressed by flights can pet the dogs, giving them a chance to calm down.

Quadrupeds are mainly found in the international flight area.

Passengers from all over the world welcome the initiative taken at Turkey’s largest airport.

Istanbul Airport has a total of four special pet areas that provide food for cats and dogs, toilets for them, and scratching boards for cats.

Illustrative Photo by Lum3n: https://www.pexels.com/photo/closeup-photo-of-brown-and-black-dog-face-406014/

UN and partners launch $2.7 billion humanitarian appeal for Yemen

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United Nations News

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14 March 2024

UN and partners launch $2.7 billion humanitarian appeal for Yemen

Nearly a decade of fighting between Government forces, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, pitted against Houthi rebels who control much of the country, has left 18.2 million Yemenis in need of life-saving assistance and protection, and 17.6 million are estimated to face acute food insecurity.

The 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) is based on robust consultations across the country involving those affected, authorities and institutions, aid workers, and development partners at both the local and national levels.

It also reflects the way the humanitarian community will adapt operations in a context of limited funding and access constraints.

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‘A critical juncture’

“Yemen is facing a critical juncture and has a unique opportunity to take a decisive step away from the humanitarian crisis by addressing the drivers of need,” said Peter Hawkins, interim UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the country.

“While regional conflict dynamics have introduced additional risks, the humanitarian community remains committed to stay and deliver.”

Following the start of the war in Gaza last October, Houthi rebels have been launching attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, affecting global trade and increasing geopolitical tensions.

The United States, United Kingdom and other countries have responded with counterstrikes.

Save lives, build resilience

The HRP emphasizes collaboration with development partners to support livelihoods, basic services, and economic conditions to build long-term solutions, in line with the $1.3 billion UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for Yemen for the period from 2022-2025.

“We must not turn our backs on the people of Yemen. I am appealing to donors for their continued and urgent support to save lives, build resilience, and also to fund sustainable interventions,” Mr. Hawkins said. 

Humanitarians reported that child mortality in Yemen slightly improved in 2023 following years of sustained assistance. However, the country is seeing some of the highest malnutrition rates ever recorded.

Nearly half of all children under age five are experiencing moderate to severe stunting – impaired growth and development from poor nutrition – and the situation continues to worsen.

Additionally, 12.4 million people lack sufficient access to safe drinking water, increasing the risk of infectious diseases, while more than 4.5 million school-age children are not in the classroom.

An estimated 4.5 million people across Yemen are currently displaced, one-third of whom have been uprooted more than once.

Humanitarian hub in Ta’iz

Relatedly, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has established a humanitarian hub in Ta’iz governorate in southern Yemen to boost access to critical services and support vulnerable communities.

The region faces significant challenges, including a water crisis, collapsed healthcare systems, and limited access to humanitarian assistance.

IOM has been providing crucial services to displaced communities there for more than three years, serving around 10,000 people across 13 sites.

The hub will provide a secure operational base for humanitarian partners, to help address urgent needs in Ta’iz, while allowing IOM to scale up its support and help communities to recover and rebuild.

The agency’s work includes camp coordination and camp management, site maintenance and implementing community feedback mechanisms.

IOM has also conducted women’s empowerment initiatives across eight sites that it manages, engaging 200 women in on-the-job training and literacy activities, while some 170 young people across eight sites have taken part in sports programmes.

Other activities include ongoing flood reduction efforts and infrastructure enhancements at 12 sites and school rehabilitation projects that promote coexistence between displaced and host communities.

Parliament backs tighter EU rules for toy safety

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European Parliament

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14 March 2024

Parliament backs tighter EU rules for toy safety

Ban on the most harmful chemicals such as endocrine disruptors
Smart toys to comply with safety, security and privacy standards by design
In 2022, toys topped the list of dangerous products alerts in the EU, comprising 23% of all notifications

The draft rules aim to decrease the number of unsafe toys sold in the EU single market and better protect children from toy-related risks.

On Wednesday, Parliament approved its position on revamped EU rules on toy safety with 603 votes in favour, 5 against and 15 abstentions. The text responds to a number of new challenges, mainly stemming from digital toys and online shopping, and converts the existing directive into a directly applicable regulation.

Ban on harmful chemicals

Focusing on children’s health and development, the proposal strengthens the requirements and bans on certain chemical substances in toys. The existing prohibition on carcinogenic and mutagenic substances or substances toxic for reproduction (CRM) is extended to chemicals that are particularly harmful to children, such as endocrine disruptors or chemicals affecting the respiratory system. The rules also target chemicals that are toxic to specific organs or are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic. Toys should not contain any per- and polyfluorinated alkil substances (PFASs) either.

Strengthening checks

All toys sold in the EU will have to have a digital product passport (replacing the EU declaration of conformity), detailing compliance with the relevant safety rules. This will enhance the traceability of toys and make market surveillance and customs checks simpler and more efficient. Consumers will also have easy access to safety information and warnings, for example via a QR code. MEPs in their position urge the Commission to support and guide SME toy manufacturers in performing safety assessments and fulfilling the product passport requirements.

Safety, security and privacy by design

Toys with digital elements need to comply with safety, security and privacy by design standards. MEPs say toys using AI falling under the scope of the new Artificial Intelligence Act will have to comply with cybersecurity, personal data protection, and privacy requirements. Manufacturers of digitally connected toys need to follow the EU’s Cybersecurity rules and consider, where appropriate, the risks to mental health and the cognitive development of children using such toys.

Toys must also comply with the recently updated General Product Safety rules, for example, when it comes to online sales, accident reporting, consumer right to information and remedy.

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Rapporteur Marion Walsmann (EPP, Germany) said: “Children deserve the safest toys possible. With the revised safety rules, we are giving them just that. We are protecting them against invisible dangers such as harmful chemicals and ensuring that warnings such as age restrictions are clearly visible online. The newly introduced digital product passport will ensure that consumers have access to information they need. At the same time, trade secrets will be protected – a strong signal for fair competition and that Europe is the place to do business”.

Next steps

The text constitutes Parliament’s position at first reading. The file will be followed up by the new Parliament after the European elections on 6-9 June.

Background

Before placing a toy on the market, manufacturers have to carry out safety assessments that cover all chemical, physical, mechanical, electrical flammability, hygiene and radioactivity hazards and potential exposure. Despite the EU market being among the safest in the world, dangerous toys still find their way into consumers’ hands. According to the EU Safety Gate (the EU rapid alert system for dangerous consumer products), toys were the most notified product category, accounting for 23% of all notifications in 2022 and 20% in 2021.

Bird Watching 101 – Tips For Attracting Birds To Your Yard

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14 March 2024

Watching beautiful birds flit and chirp in your own backyard can bring such joy and tranquility to your daily life. Whether you’re an experienced bird watcher or just starting out, knowing how to attract these feathered friends to your yard is key. From providing the right food and water sources to creating a welcoming habitat, there are tips and tricks that can make your yard a hotspot for a variety of bird species. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know to transform your outdoor space into a bird-watching paradise!

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Creating a Bird-Friendly Environment

Even if you’re just starting out with bird watching, creating a bird-friendly environment in your yard can help attract a variety of beautiful birds. For more tips on getting started, check out Bird Watching 101: A Guide for Beginners | Audubon New.

Choosing the Right Location

On your quest to attract more birds to your yard, selecting the right location is key. Choose an area that is close to natural food sources like trees, shrubs, and water, as well as shelter from predators. Placing feeders and bird baths in a quiet spot can also encourage birds to visit.

Landscaping for the Birds

To create an ideal habitat for birds in your yard, consider planting a variety of native trees, shrubs, and flowers. Diverse vegetation provides birds with food sources, shelter, and nesting sites. Additionally, incorporating a mixture of plant heights and types can attract different species of birds, enhancing the overall biodiversity in your yard.

Birds are attracted to colorful flowers that produce seeds and fruits, such as sunflowers, coneflowers, and berry-bearing bushes. Providing a bird-friendly landscape not only benefits the birds but also adds beauty and tranquility to your outdoor space.

Feeding Your Feathered Friends

It Feeding Birds is an imperative part of bird watching. By providing a variety of bird feed and feeders, you can attract a wide range of feathered friends to your yard.

Types of Bird Feed and Feeders

Offer a mix of seeds, grains, fruits, nuts, and insects to attract different bird species.
Use platform feeders, hopper feeders, nyjer feeders, suet feeders, and hummingbird feeders to cater to various feeding preferences.
Ensure feeders are placed in accessible locations that are easily visible to birds.
Keep feeders clean and dry to prevent mold and disease.
Recognizing the preferences of local bird species will help you attract a diverse range of birds to your yard.

Safe Feeding Practices

To ensure the safety of the birds visiting your yard, it is imperative to avoid using pesticides near feeding areas. Additionally, regularly clean feeders and replace old or moldy food to prevent the spread of disease among birds.

To maintain a healthy bird population in your yard, follow safe feeding practices such as providing fresh water in birdbaths and keeping feeders clean to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. This can help create a welcoming environment for birds and promote their well-being.

Beyond Feeding – Offering Shelter and Water

Birdhouses and Nesting Sites

Many bird enthusiasts focus on providing food for their feathered friends, but offering suitable shelter is just as important. The placement of birdhouses and nesting sites can attract a variety of bird species to your yard. The key is to provide different types of houses to accommodate different birds’ preferences, from open-fronted houses for robins to small entrance holes for chickadees.

Birdbaths and Water Features

The right water feature can be as attractive to birds as a full bird feeder. For many species, access to a clean and reliable water source is important. For example, a shallow birdbath with a small fountain or drip feature will not only attract birds for drinking but also for bathing, which is vital for their feather maintenance. Plus, the sound of moving water can be particularly enticing to birds.

Enhancing Your Bird Watching Experience

Now, if you want to enhance your bird watching experience, there are a few things you can do. First and foremost, consider attracting more birds to your yard by following tips from Bird feeding 101 – attracting birds and maintaining feeders. Providing the right food and setting up bird feeders can attract a variety of bird species for you to observe.

Essential Bird Watching Gear

Any bird watcher knows that having the right gear can make a big difference in your bird watching experience. Invest in a good pair of binoculars, a field guide to help with bird identification, and a comfortable chair or spotting scope for long observation sessions.

Keeping a Bird Journal

To truly enhance your bird watching experience, consider keeping a bird journal. Documenting the species you see, their behavior, and any patterns you notice can help you become a better birder over time. You can also track migration patterns and note any changes in bird populations in your area.

The benefits of keeping a bird journal are invaluable, allowing you to create a personal record of your bird watching adventures and contribute valuable data to bird conservation efforts.

Final Words

Drawing together all the tips and tricks from “Bird Watching 101 – Tips For Attracting Birds To Your Yard”, we hope you feel inspired and ready to create a bird-friendly environment in your own backyard. Do not forget, providing food, water, shelter, and a safe place for birds to rest will not only attract a wide variety of species but also contribute to their well-being. So grab your binoculars, set up some bird feeders, and enjoy the beauty and joy that comes with observing these wonderful creatures in your own space. Happy bird watching!

Human rights breaches in Afghanistan and Venezuela

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14 March 2024

On Thursday, the European Parliament adopted two resolutions on the respect for human rights in Afghanistan and Venezuela.

The repressive environment in Afghanistan, including public executions and violence against women

MEPs are gravely concerned by the humanitarian and human rights crisis in Afghanistan. The Taliban have, they say, dismantled the judicial system, ordered judges to fully implement Sharia law and have virtually eliminated women and girls from public life. This amounts to gender persecution and gender apartheid, according to MEPs, who call on the Taliban to immediately restore the full and equal participation of women and girls in public life, particularly access to education and work.

Parliament urges the de-facto Afghan authorities to abolish capital punishment and to immediately halt public executions and the barbarous persecution and discriminatory policies in particular against women, LGBTIQ+, ethnic and religious minorities.

MEPs insist that any EU engagement with the Taliban can be maintained only under strict conditions set by the Council and in accordance with the UN Special Rapporteur’s recommendations.

Parliament supports Afghan civil society’s call to hold the de-facto authorities accountable for their crimes, particularly via the International Criminal Court investigation by establishing an UN Independent Investigative Mechanism, and by expanding EU restrictive measures.

The resolution was adopted by 513 votes in favour, 9 against and 24 abstentions. For further details, the full version will be available here. (14.03.2024)

The case of Rocío San Miguel and General Hernández Da Costa, among other political prisoners in Venezuela

Parliament strongly condemns the Maduro regime in Venezuela for imprisoning hundreds of political prisoners held in conditions that fail to meet the United Nations standard minimum rules for their treatment.

Demanding their immediate and unconditional release, Parliament exhorts the regime to cease repressing and attacking civil society and the opposition. MEPs want the EU to increase sanctions, including on high-level officials, members of the security forces, members of the regime’s Supreme Tribunal of Justice and Maduro himself.

They urge the International Criminal Court to include ongoing human rights violations and arbitrary detentions in its investigation into alleged crimes against humanity committed by the Maduro regime. Parliament calls on the international community to support a return to democracy in Venezuela, particularly in view of the elections, in which the leader of the opposition to the regime, María Corina Machado, shall fully participate.

MEPs also urge the Chilean authorities to investigate fully the murder of Ronald Ojeda, a former political prisoner who escaped the Maduro regime, and urge the Venezuelan authorities to re-establish the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and guarantee their access to prisons.

The resolution was adopted by 497 votes in favour, 22 against and 27 abstentions. For further details, the full version will be available here. (14.03.2024)

Civilians in Israel and Palestine ‘cannot be abandoned’, says top UN official on sexual violence in conflict

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United Nations News

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14 March 2024

Civilians in Israel and Palestine ‘cannot be abandoned’, says top UN official on sexual violence in conflict

The Security Council meeting adjourned at 5:32 PM. Describing the evidence of unspeakable violence she had witnessed against Israeli civilians, the top UN official on sexual violence in war said she was also “horrified by the injustice of women and children killed in Gaza” since 7 October.

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HIGHLIGHTS

Pramila Patten, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, refuted falsehoods, provided a snapshot of her recent report on Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory and delivered recommendations
“There has been no attempt by the Secretary-General to silence my report or suppress its findings,” Ms. Patten said
The Special Representative expressed her disappointment “that the immediate reaction to my report by some political actors was not to open inquiries into those alleged incidents, but rather to reject them outright via social media”
“What I witnessed in Israel were scenes of unspeakable violence perpetrated with shocking brutality resulting in intense human suffering,” Ms. Patten said
“We found clear and convincing information that sexual violence, including rape, sexualized torture, and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment, has been committed against hostages, and we have reasonable grounds to believe that such violence may still be ongoing against those in captivity,” she said
“What I witnessed in the occupied West Bank was a climate of intense fear and insecurity with women and men terrified and deeply disturbed over the ongoing tragedy in Gaza,” Ms. Patten said, adding that concerns had been raised over invasive body searches, unwanted touches, threats of rape against women and inappropriate and prolonged forced nudity among detainees
For summaries of UN meetings, visit our colleagues at the UN Meetings Coverage in English and French

5:23 PM

Council silent on Hamas crimes for too long: Israel

Israel Katz, Foreign Minister of Israel, said that he had come to the Security Council to protest “as loud as I can” against the crimes against humanity that Hamas has committed to deter and scare the entire society of Israel.

“For too long the UN has been silent on Hamas actions,” he alleged, stating that the Organization had failed to condemn the group for its crimes.

Foreign Minister Israel Katz of Israel addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

“The only one responsible for the crimes against humanity is Hamas,” he said, recalling the brutal attacks against Israeli civilians of 7 October and calling for Hamas to be declared a terrorist organization by ambassadors and face the heaviest sanctions possible.

He said that Hamas was not speaking on behalf of the Muslim world and that Israel is asking the Security Council to condemn the crimes it has committed which the militant group claimed in the name of the Muslim faith.

“I am demanding from the Security Council to put as much pressure on the Hamas organization to release immediately and unconditionally all kidnapped hostages” assumed to be in Gaza, he said, noting that they continue to face attacks and remain in grave danger.

“United Nations, please try your utmost to stop this living hell on Earth,” he added, thanking the nations that have supported and accepted Israel’s point of view.

5:00 PM

Palestine: ‘Stop this genocide’

Riyad Mansour, Permanent Observer for the Observer State of Palestine, said food and hope cannot be found in Gaza at the start of the holy month of Ramadan, with nothing to eat for suhur or for iftar, alongside an occupation-made humanitarian crisis that has left 9,000 women and 13,000 children dead and more than one million displaced, living in “inhumane conditions”.

Riyad Mansour, Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine to the United Nations, addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

However, for decades, investigations on sexual assault against Palestinian women, men, girls and boys have not led the Security Council to convene a single meeting on the matter, he said, citing such evidence as the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) 2013 report on Israel’s ill treatment of detained Palestinian children and UN rights office (OHCHR) findings that since 7 October Israeli security forces’ arrests were “often accompanied by beating, ill-treatment and humiliation of Palestinian women and men, including acts of sexual assault such as kicking genitals and threats of rape”.

Expressing hope that today’s meeting marks a change in this attitude and that more attention will be shown by the Council in an unbiased manner, he raised several concerns about the latest report before the Council.

While Ms. Patten had not sought to gather information or verify allegations in the context of the Occupied Palestinian Territory in order not to duplicate the ongoing work of other UN entities in this regard, he said none of these groups were invited today to present their findings on sexual violence against Palestinians.

‘Let the facts speak’

Declaring his delegation’s full readiness to cooperate with OHCHR and the Independent International Commission of Inquiry to investigate all allegations, he expected the Security Council to demand that Israel do the same.

“Let the facts speak; let the law decide,” he said, noting Israel’s refusal to cooperate with any fact-finding mission or rights inquiry over the years in “its failed attempt to hide the truth”.

Indeed, Israel has resorted to lies and distortions many times before to justify the killing of Palestinians and their dispossession, helping to spread false stories knowing that irreparable harm would be done during the time it would take to refute them, he said.

In this vein, he pointed to the stories of “beheaded babies”, “Hamas headquarters under Al-Shifa Hospital” and another tale refuted in the Special Representative’s report as “unfounded”: the “highly publicized allegation of a pregnant woman whose womb had reportedly been ripped open before being killed, with her fetus stabbed while still inside her”.

“Shamefully, this was never about the Israeli victims; this was about justifying the atrocities that Israel intended to commit against Palestinian victims, and, for Israel, the truth is irrelevant in this pursuit,” he said.

Israeli impunity made Gaza genocide possible

Nothing justifies any violence against civilians, he said.

Israel has been killing, maiming, detaining Palestinians, destroying their homes and collectively punishing a nation, before and after 7 October, for 75 years now, he said.

“It is always the victim, even when it kills and destroys and steals, and not a single Israeli leader, not a single member of the Israeli occupation forces has ever been held accountable for any crime committed against the Palestinian people,” he said, emphasizing that this impunity is what made this genocide possible.

“It is time for a change, and that change starts by ending Israeli impunity,” he said. “I call on you again: stop this genocide.”

4:43 PM

Relentless assault on Palestinians: Algeria

Amar Bendjama, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Algeria to the UN, said that the principled position of his country is that no man or woman, regardless of their nationality, religious or origin, should endure the horror of sexual violence.

“Such acts are clearly condemned by our religion, Islam, and those responsible must face severe consequences within the bounds of law,” he said, calling for an international independent investigation into allegations of all sexual violence in the region, as suggested by Special Representative Patten.

He went on to note that for decades, Palestinian women have borne the impact of a relentless assault, discrimination and unspeakable violence on numerous fronts.

“The Palestinian population, and specifically women, have been subjected to countless brutalities violating the very essence of their humanity and dignity,” he said. “This plight is however not a recent phenomenon; it has persisted throughout the enduring occupation and exacerbated by a deliberate policy of collective punishment.”

4:35 PM

US: Council must stamp out conflict-related sexual violence

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that the Council has been silent about the 7 October atrocities, with some members viewing the evidence with scepticism.

“The evidence before us is damning and devastating,” she said. “The question now is how will we respond? Will the Council condemn Hamas’s sexual violence or will it stay silent?” she asked.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield of the United States addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

Turning to allegations in the West Bank, she said all parties must uphold international law, and, as a democracy, Israel must hold perpetrators accountable.

Hamas’s acts of sexual violence are ongoing, she continued, citing examples in the Special Representative’s report and calling for the release of all hostages.

The Council must call on Hamas to agree to the ceasefire deal “on the table”, she said. If Hamas actually cared about the Palestinian people, it would agree to this deal, which would bring in much-needed aid.

The US has put forward a resolution that would help to pave the way to a cessation of hostilities and towards a lasting peace. The draft will also do what the Council has yet failed to do: condemn Hamas, she stressed.

In the meantime, the Council must work together to stamp out conflict-related sexual violence, she said.

4:33 PM

Accountability essential: Ecuador

Ecuador’s Ambassador Jose De La Gasca said an immediate ceasefire was vital and in relation to the sexual violence report, Israel should allow a full United Nations investigation to take place.

He urged Israel to allow entry to the UN human rights office (OHCHR) and the independent investigative commission of inquiry.

“It is vital that there be accountability for these crimes whereby we guarantee that the offenders are investigated, tried and condemned.”

He said it was important to investigate all allegations of sexual violence in the West Bank, by settlers or the Israel forces.

“The value of human life and human dignity have been forgotten and this report clearly shows that.” He said Ecuador stands in solidarity with both Israel and Palestine. The violence must end.

4:10 PM

Russia: More information needed

Maria Zabolotskaya of the Russian Federation, briefs UN Security Council members on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

Russian representative Maria Zabolotskaya, recalling her delegation’s unequivocal condemnation of the October attacks, said these crimes, no matter how heinous, cannot be just to justify collective punishment of Palestinians in Gaza.

Welcoming efforts aimed at shedding light on the crimes committed during the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, she said the UN is not taking sufficient measures in this area nor does it have access to reliable information.

Moreover, she said, the Special Representative’s visit did not include a visit to Gaza, and it was unclear what kind of Israeli cooperation the report refers to. Indeed, the Council has only been given partial information.

Noting that Ms. Patten’s team was unable to meet victims of the sexual assault that took place during the tragic events of 7 October, she said the data was mainly received from the Government of Israel.

“Only after a comprehensive and objective study of the situation in its entire geographical extent will it be possible to draw any conclusions,” she said, adding that Russia categorically rejects attempts to manipulate the important issue of combating sexual violence in the conflict.

“We consider it unacceptable that the suffering of people who have experienced sexual violence or accusations of this serious crime become a ‘bargaining chip’ in political games,” she concluded.

4:02 PM

Mozambique: Intervention urgently needed

Domingos Estêvão Fernandes, Deputy Permanent Representative of Mozambique to the UN, said that the relentless violence between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the Occupied West Bank, coupled with the bombardment in the Gaza Strip demanded the “immediate intervention” of the Security Council.

“All parties must fully respect international humanitarian law as rape and other forms of sexual violence constitute grave violations in armed conflict,” he said, strongly urging all parties to pursue a peaceful resolution and a cessation of hostilities during the scared month of Ramadan.

“We should all pause and reflect on whether our world needs further bloodshed and violence,” he added.

3:35 PM

France: Ceasefire needed now

French Ambassador Nicolas de Rivière said it is unacceptable that the Security Council and the General Assembly have not yet been able to clearly condemn the terrorist acts and violence, including sexual violence, committed by Hamas and other terrorist groups on 7 October.

France will continue to work so that the reality of the crimes committed that day is recognized and cannot be called into question, he said.

“We reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages,” he continued, emphasizing that international law is binding on all. It will be necessary to shed light on the allegations contained in the report about some forms of sexual violence against Palestinians.

At the start of Ramadan, and while no agreement has been reached on a cessation of hostilities, France reiterates its call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in order to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid and the protection of civilians, he said, stating that the lack of sufficient access to those in need is unjustifiable and indefensible.

3:29 PM

Civilians terrorized: UK

Lord Tariq Ahmad, the UK Minister of State for the Middle East, said that it is a tragic fact that sexual violence is used to terrorize civilians, shattering lives and leaving brutal and lifelong scars on victims, their families and communities.

He voiced “deep concern” over Special Representative Patten’s findings, including “reasonable grounds” to believe that sexual violence occurred in Israel on 7 October and the existence of “clear and convincing” information that sexual violence has been committed against hostages.

“It is deeply disturbing to know that ‘such violence may be ongoing against those still in captivity’,” he added, calling for the immediate, safe and unconditional release of all hostages.

United Kingdom’s Minister for the Middle East, Lord Tariq Ahmad, addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

Lord Ahmad also expressed “deep shock” at the reports of sexual violence perpetrated by Israeli forces against Palestinian detainees, which are being investigated.

“I call on Israel to take immediate measures to prevent conflict-related sexual violence, to abide by international humanitarian law, to ensure thorough investigations into these reports, and for perpetrators to be held to account,” he added.

“Let me be absolutely clear – we, the United Kingdom, condemn conflict-related sexual violence unequivocally, wherever it occurs, and stand in solidarity with all victims and survivors,” he said.

“Put it simply, it must stop. Perpetrators must be held accountable. Survivors must receive holistic support,” he said.

In conclusion, Lord Ahmad said that justice delayed is justice denied, and that a two-State solution is the “only way” to achieve justice and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.

“The first step must be an immediate stop to the fighting leading to a permanent, sustainable ceasefire, the release of all hostages and vital humanitarian lifesaving aid delivered to Gaza. It is this solution that we seek,” he said, adding:

“We owe it to the legacy of every innocent civilian killed in Israel and across the Occupied Palestinian Territories to utilize every lever and channel we have in pursuit of this.”

3:10 PM

‘I saw the pain in their eyes’: Patten

UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, provided an overview of her mission to Israel and the West Bank, which was not investigative in nature, but aimed at gathering, analysing and verifying reports on conflict-related sexual violence.

Considering the ongoing hostilities, she did not request a visit to Gaza, where other UN entities are operation, with some monitoring sexual violence.

“There has been no attempt by the Secretary-General to silence my report or suppress its findings,” she said at the outset, emphasizing that her team, including nine UN experts, conducted the mission in accordance of independence and transparency.

Conclusions were based on the credibility and reliability of sources and assessing whether or not there was information sufficient to determine a finding of fact, she said, noting that in a number of cases, the team assessed that certain allegations were unfounded.

Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, briefs UN Security Council members on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

Israel visit

Her team conducted interviews with 34 individuals, including survivors of the 7 October attacks, visiting four sites of alleged attacks and review over 5,000 images and 50 hours of footage provided by authorities and independent sources. The team did not meet with survivors of sexual attacks, she said.

“What I witnessed in Israel, were scenes of unspeakable violence perpetrated with shocking brutality resulting in intense human suffering,” she said, recalling meeting with traumatized communities who are trying to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives.

“I saw the pain in their eyes,” she said, citing reports of people who had been shot, burned in their homes and killed by grenades alongside the abduction of hostages, mutilation of corpses and widespread looting. “It was a catalogue of the most extreme and inhumane forms of killing, torture and other horrors.”

Hostages in Gaza

“We found clear and convincing information that sexual violence, including rape, sexualized torture, and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment has been committed against hostages and we have reasonable grounds to believe that such violence may still be ongoing against those in captivity,” she said, adding that this information does not legitimize further hostilities.

Instead, this creates “a moral imperative” for a humanitarian ceasefire to end the unspeakable suffering imposed on Palestinian civilians in Gaza and bring home the hostages, she said.

West Bank

On the visit to Ramallah, she said UN entities had already provided information that would be included in her report to the Council in April.

“What I witnessed in the occupied West Bank was a climate of intense fear and insecurity with women and men terrified and deeply disturbed over the ongoing tragedy in Gaza,” she said.

Interlocutors raised concerns of invasive body searches, unwanted touches, threats of rape against women and inappropriate and prolonged forced nudity among detainees, she said.

Raising these reports with Israeli authorities, who indicated its who provided her with some information regarding their protocols in place to prevent and address such instances and indicated their willingness to investigate any alleged breaches.

“In this regard, I wish to express my disappointment that the immediate reaction to my report by some political actors was not to open inquiries into those alleged incidents, but rather to reject them outright via social media,” she said.

“We must translate political resolve into operational responses, which are critical in the current context of unremitting violence,” she said.

Recommendations

The report makes a number of recommendations, including urging all parties to agree to a ceasefire and for Hamas to release all hostages.

“The implicated parties in these hostilities have turned a blind eye to international law,” she said, encouraging the Government of Israel to grant without further delay access to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, and that Israel to carry out fully-fledged investigations into all alleged violations that occurred on 7 October.

Truth is the ‘only path to peace’

“Truth is the only path towards peace,” she said, also calling on relevant bodies to bring perpetrators to justice.

Nothing can justify the violence perpetrated by Hamas on 7 October nor the horrific collective punishment of the Palestinian people, she said.

“The end goal of my mandate is a world without war,” she said. “Civilians and their families in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory cannot be abandoned by the international community. Survivors of sexual violence and persons at risk must be protected and supported. We cannot fail them.”

She said horror and heartache must be replaced with healing, humanity and hope.

“The credibility of the multilateral system depends on it, and the rules-based international order demands no less.”

3:06 PM

Ms. Patten is briefing ambassadors, and said the Council was meeting more than 150 days after the coordinated Hamas-led attack, the deadliest in Israeli history.

She also reminded that more than 30,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have perished in the aftermath of 7 October during the Israeli offensive, according to figures released by the health ministry in Gaza.

2:45 PM

Ms. Patten is expected to provide an overview of the report on sexual violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel, which made headlines worldwide upon its release last week following a visit to the region from late January to mid-February.

According to the report, the Special Representative said that during the Hamas attacks on Israel in October, there are “reasonable grounds” to believe that incidents of sexual violence took place “in at least three locations”, including the Nova music festival.

Findings also showed hostages taken during the attacks faced “rape and sexualized torture and sexualized cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment and it also has reasonable grounds to believe that such violence may be ongoing” inside Gaza.

In the West Bank, her team heard “the views and concerns” of Palestinian counterparts over incidents “allegedly committed by Israeli security forces and settlers”. The report noted that stakeholders had “raised concerns about cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment of Palestinians in detention, including the increased use of various forms of sexual violence, namely invasive body searches, threats of rape and prolonged forced nudity”.

The meeting is taking place against the backdrop of rising hunger in Gaza, where aid deliveries have been blocked by Israel and the risk of famine is steadily mounting, as Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) military operations are planning a ground invasion in Rafah, the southern point of the besieged and bombarded enclave, where more than 1.5 million Gazans are seeking shelter from the fighting.