The argument is often made about food, as well as about dozens of other “strategic goods”, that we must be self-sufficient in the face of threats to peace around the world.
The argument itself is very old, old enough for the self-sufficiency argument, as well as the feasibility of actually being self-sufficient, to have finally graduated to the status of political myth. Yet this is, unfortunately, a myth that refuses to die. One that continuously puts European nations on the path towards fragile supply chains.
The conflict in Ukraine has disrupted Black Sea agricultural exports, pushing prices higher, and exacerbating high energy and fertilizer costs. As major exporters of grain and vegetable oil, conflict around the Black Sea is significantly disrupting shipping.
In Sudan, the combined effects of conflict, economic crisis, and poor harvests are significantly affecting people’s access to food and have doubled the number of people facing acute hunger in Sudan to around 18 million. The higher grain prices from the war in Ukraine was the final nail.
If fighting in Gaza escalates across the Middle East, (which, fortunately, is looking less likely) it could spark a second energy crisis which could send food and fuel prices spiralling. The World Bank warned that if the conflict were to intensify, it could result in significant price hikes for oil and exacerbate food insecurity, both within the Middle East and globally.
It should be obvious that the most secure food supply, steel supply or fuel supply is one that draws from as many sources as possible, so that if one dries up, or is caught up in a military or diplomatic calamity, then the supply is able to be recovered by increasing trade through the many alternative channels. Its how Qatar, cut off during the blockade in 2017, was able to continue largely unaffected despite being shut off from all its neighbours and producing itself almost no food at all.
The myth’s enduring popularity largely is down to the way it interacts with our basic human psychology. Most of our mental heuristics are learn for much more simplistic problems. The way we’ve learnt to survive is by hoarding and sitting on as large a pile of food as possible. We’re also naturally disinclined to trust our neighbours, let alone rely on them.
Breaking though our prehistoric instincts and embracing what are therefore the counter-intuitive tenets of free trade is thus quite a tall order. Perhaps it explains why free trade remains so unpopular compared to protectionism despite the overwhelmingly positive record that free trade can claim for itself, singlehandedly lifting billions out of poverty.
Convincing the current generation of European politicians to diversify their food supply will always be hard – but the gains are massive if they can see the light.
Regions like Latin America and Southeast Asia stand out as regions where the EU does far too little strategic trade. Being in different hemispheres means that the seasons are opposite (or have massively different climates in the case of Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia), so the benefits to mutual supply chains are naturally complementary. Such countries are primed for mutually beneficial trade to boost strategic security.
Countries like Argentina produce large amounts of meat, something the EU sanitary and phytosanitary rules (SPS) make much more difficult to import than it need be. Malaysia is the world’s largest exporter of palm oil, producing the oils and fats needed across dozens of food categories. Compared to other main oilseeds, such as soybean, rapeseed, and sunflower, which can be grown domestically, oil palm is the highest-yielding oil crop. Making it cheaper and easier to import would mean food security in times of instability, and cheaper staples in times of peace by driving down costs.
More trade also means more influence and more transparency in supply chains. Taking the Malays as an example again, their agrifood industry is embracing the use of blockchain technology and traceability to prove that their products are environmentally friendly and deforestation-free. Trade makes economically viable massive environmental efforts to protect the environment. Conversely, it creates interdependence with regions around the world which reduce the likelihood of conflict or international rulebreaking generally.
The great French economist Frédéric Bastiat wrote that ““When goods don’t cross borders, Soldiers will”. He observed the power of interdependence as a peacekeeper. Diversifying trade is therefore both preparation and prevention. Politicians must overcome their primitive instincts and let the goods flow.
KingNewswire. Austin, Texas (USA) The Ideal Church of Scientology’s grand opening in Austin, Texas, last February 24th, signifies a major expansion, emphasizing spiritual freedom and community service. Located centrally on The Drag, the Church offers spiritual counseling and community programs, receiving praise from local leaders for its contributions to drug education and interfaith cooperation. Led by Mr. David Miscavige, this event marks a key step in the Church’s global growth, highlighting its commitment to positive community impact and spiritual awareness.
Brussels, Brussels, Belgium, 27th Feb 2024 – In a vibrant celebration of Texas freedom, the capital city of Austin witnessed a significant moment in its history with the opening of the new Ideal Church of Scientology Austin. The event, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, took place on a clear Saturday afternoon on the city’s main social corridor, The Drag, amidst an elated crowd of Scientologists and guests. This grand opening is the first of many scheduled for 2024, symbolizing the unabated growth of Scientology.
The new Church, situated across from the University of Texas, stands as a beacon of spiritual freedom. With its street-level, floor-to-ceiling windows, the Church invites passers-by to explore what it has to offer. The Grand Opening day was a lively affair, with tours of the Church extending from the afternoon into the evening.
The dedication ceremony was highlighted by a Texas-sized ovation for Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center, who described the new Church as a shining star in the “country of Texas.” Joined by parishioners who contributed to the establishment of this Ideal Church, Mr. Miscavige cut through a red, white, and blue ribbon, marking the official opening.
The ceremony was not just a celebration but also a reflection on the spirit of Texas. Mr. Miscavige reminded the audience of the words of a famous Texan, drawing parallels between the pioneering spirit of the past and the mission of the Church today to settle the “line of country” of the human spirit.
Voices of Unity and Commitment
The event featured speeches from local leaders and advocates, each highlighting the Church’s role in the community and its broader humanitarian missions.
Mr. Mike McHone, Vice-President of the University Area Partners Association, praised the Church’s contribution to the community, emphasizing the collaborative effort to create a thriving, active community in the University area.
Mr. Sam Price, a Texas Drug Education Advocate, acknowledged the Church-sponsored Drug-Free World program’s impact, crediting it with providing thousands with the choice to live drug-free.
Ms. Simone Talma Flowers, Executive Director of Interfaith Action of Central Texas, spoke on the importance of bridging divisions between different faiths and praised the Church for its role in building the largest interfaith movement in Central Texas. She highlighted the Church of Scientology’s commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation among diverse religious communities, which has significantly contributed to the region’s social fabric.
Mr. Nelson Linder, speaking on behalf of the Austin NAACP, expressed gratitude towards the Church for its strong voice and active participation in the community. He emphasized the shared goals of justice and equality, and how the Church’s efforts in Austin have helped turn these aspirations into reality, thereby enriching the community as a whole.
A New Chapter for Scientology in Austin
The establishment of the Ideal Church of Scientology in Austin marks a significant milestone. It not only serves as a spiritual home for Scientologists but opens its doors to the entire community, offering a venue for collaborative efforts aimed at uplifting all citizens, regardless of their denominations.
The Church features an array of facilities designed to meet the needs of parishioners and the community alike. The Public Information Center, with its extensive collection of films, provides an in-depth introduction to Dianetics and Scientology. The Hubbard Guidance Center offers one-on-one spiritual counseling, while the Purification Center addresses the mental and spiritual damage caused by drugs and toxins. The Academy trains auditors, spiritual counselors who assist others in achieving spiritual freedom.
Moreover, the Church’s location on The Drag, opposite the University of Texas, positions it at the heart of Austin’s social and cultural life, making it a hub for community engagement and humanitarian initiatives.
A Global Expansion
The opening of the Ideal Church of Scientology Austin is part of a global expansion plan. Throughout 2024, new Ideal Churches are set to open across the United States and around the world, reflecting the growing interest in Scientology and its humanitarian missions.
This expansion also includes the launch of the Scientology Network, a satellite TV channel that broadcasts the message of Scientology across the globe, furthering the Church’s outreach and engagement with a wider audience.
The Ideal Church of Scientology in Austin stands as a testament to the Church’s commitment to spiritual freedom, community service, and humanitarian work. Its opening marks a new chapter in the Church’s mission to help individuals achieve greater spiritual awareness and freedom, while also serving as a catalyst for positive change in the community and beyond.
For more information about the Church of Scientology Austin and its programs, or to visit the new Ideal Church, interested individuals are encouraged to explore the Church’s official website or visit the Church in person.
When on November 19, 1978, from a bird’s eye view we were able to see on television the atrocious images of the murder-suicide of the members of the People’s Temple Church, led and directed by the Reverend Jim Jones, something changed in the vision and respect that Europe had for the beliefs of others.
That story began when American Congressman Leo Ryan heard about the conditions in which the followers of the American Reverend Jim Jones lived in Guyana. Apparently he had them subjected to a regime of semi-slavery, where women were sexually abused, beatings were administered to the dissatisfied and where, apparently, children were also tortured. Since the Cooperative Republic of Guyana is so close to the United States, located on the northern coast of South America, Congressman Ryan organized a visit to that place for November 17, 1978, when his helicopter landed in the track prepared for this within the limits of the Church, the Reverend Jones, who had tried by all means to prevent the visit, received him, failing to succeed, with a great party, where at first glance everyone seemed to be happy.
However, when Congressman Ryan was heading to his helicopter to leave the next day, November 18, the atmosphere of joy changed when several members of the Church headed toward him and the helicopter with the intention of leaving, which provoked the wrath of Reverend Jones, who ordered his trusted aides to open fire on the traitors and the congressman’s entourage. A trusted member of the Church stabbed Congressman Ryan on the spot. At that moment five people were shot to death without any kind of consideration. The rest of the people present there were forced to return to their cabins in Jonestown, the name given to the town where they lived in what was known as the Mutual Beneficial Agricultural Community.
That same day, Jim Jones understood that the fascist forces, after the assassination of Congressman Ryan, would put an end to his project and, filled with anger, without a hint of regret, he decided that everyone would immolate themselves with cyanide. Many of the members, especially those who had families, children, refused and were then shot to death. Nine hundred and twelve people died that day, among whom were found around two hundred and fifty minors, including babies and children, who were undoubtedly murdered.
What happened there went around the world, but it was really a sect or people subjected to the charisma of a narcissistic sociopath with pretenses of a Messiah Complex.
It is very likely that when Reverend Jim Jones received the Martin Luther King Jr. Award in San Francisco in 1977, no one thought that his project in Guyana would end like this just a year later.
The people who followed him were surely looking for a better, calmer life, within a framework of beliefs acceptable to their way of life. They were adults who consciously decided to modify their social regime and begin a life together, in a commune, emulating the hippie movements that still exist today in some places in the United States and the beliefs of the first Christians, without knowing who fell into the clutches of a mentally ill person with the aforementioned characteristics.
Was that a sect? Let’s analyze the facts.
Today, after almost forty years of research on these religious phenomena, I have reached two conclusions. The first is that those referred to as sects or destructive sects, as such, do not exist, and the second is that human beings are afraid of future events and this disables them from applying a certain form of critical analysis to their beliefs.
The Peoples Temple of the Disciples of Christ (The People’s Temple of the Disciples of Christ) was founded by the American religious pastor Jim Jones in Indianapolis, Indiana. For nearly 27 years he went unnoticed in the different places in the United States where he settled. In its best moments, it had nearly 5,000 members, who entered and left the different places where said center was established.
In 1960 Jim Jones moved his Church to California, and immediately attracted the attention of members of the hippie movement, that American subculture so widespread in those years on the west coast of the United States. Having grown up in a family that was not very tolerant and racist, his own father was a member of the Ku Klux Klan, his religious philosophy was, however, very permissive. Blacks and homosexuals were admitted, something unusual at that time in the radical churches that emerged like mushrooms under the protection of legislation, which I envied, was permissive and allowed freedom of worship, whatever it was, including some beliefs that were still difficult to digest in today, such as the registration of the Church of Satan in the registry of religious entities of the state of California in the mid-60s.
That religious movement, never considered a sect or destructive sect, had as its philosophical amalgam issues drawn from communism, Christianity and Buddhism, which were very well received by all its members who entered or left it. Civil rights activists, African-American groups and countless figures of the time always considered him as a person who was easy-going and tolerant of all those who came to his church. Without a doubt, if the events of September 18, 1978 had not happened, today its Temple in Guyana would be a subject of study by all those interested in learning more about the assembly and innovative movements that emerged in those years in different parts. of the world.
However, and despite the fact that in 1977, as I mentioned previously, he was awarded the Martin Luther King Jr. Prize in San Francisco, deserved for his work in favor of the black community in the United States. Everything had changed when he arrived. with his followers to Jonestown (Jones City). A pompous name because he personalized his church project. There the People’s Temple of the Disciples of Christ disappeared, to become his personal estate, his personal project. And in him, something changed. But not in his people.
His followers, many of whom had come with him from the US, continued to trust the person whose ideas had transformed their lives. They were people accustomed to an austere life, to putting everything in common, to working and contributing with their personal efforts whatever they achieved. They were even clear that Jones was not enriched by his efforts, given that he had a large personal fortune acquired over the years as an itinerant reverend, without ever having been accused of anything at all. But the capable leader failed.
What was the trigger that made Jones turn his town into a prison upon arriving in Guyana?
I must confess that I do not know and it would be lengthy to try to answer this question in the brief, although extensive, space of this article by bringing up another series of leaders, who at the same time and in adverse circumstances, were creating a personal movement that today It has become a great religious movement. The founder of Scientology comes to mind: LR Hubbard, whose project currently has more than 15 million followers around the world and growing. But that is another story that I will surely publish later.
Even though I must confess that I cannot be certain of something, allow me to conjecture based on the facts, something that has not been done to date. Nowadays and for many years now, even global intelligence services, including the FBI, Interpol, etc., do not bother to visualize such phenomena. They determine that they are sects without considering other issues, as in the case of that story, and that leads us to the creation of terrible errors that can end the credibility of many religious groups, as happened in Europe since the late 70s and even today.
First of all, many religious groups that emerged in those 50s and 60s were apocalyptic. And many of the people who joined them also thought like this, the Christian movements themselves continue to be so even today, without realizing that in the end it will be us with our actions that will end the planet, in whatever way. When Jim Jones ends his group in Guyana, he creates a commune that quickly becomes his ranch, as I mentioned before. And his beliefs become radicalized. That is his life’s work and it modifies his personal relationship with his followers, turning them into slaves. He creates a group of radical followers, which includes some of his children, arms them and puts them to watch the rest. He brings out his personality in a more radical way, according to some personality analysts consulted by the writer, inherited from his father and closes his eyes to the atrocities that could be committed in that environment that for him It was everything. Some members of his most personal group begin to convert that Jones city project into a slave estate. Women are raped, men are beaten and everyone is threatened.
In a very short time, the paradise they believed in becomes a hell from which they cannot escape. And in 1978, that fateful September 18, when the reverend sees that some of his members want to abandon the vital project that keeps him anchored to reality, he decides to assassinate a US congressman whom he and his inner circle intimate they had managed to deceive, and he makes the decision that a narcissistic sociopath would make to murder everyone.
Jim Jones becomes a serial killer and so do some of his followers in that more personal and powerful circle.
The facts were simple and the people did not commit suicide, because they were not imbeciles, they were believers who had the right to believe, but if they watch you with assault rifles and threaten to murder children and adolescents, you make the decision to drink what Let it be with the ultimate goal that nothing happens to them. But they did not take into account that some psychopaths, who most likely escaped after the massacre, did not want to leave too many witnesses.
That there were people who decided to take a drink so they could be in heaven and reunite there with other loved ones? Sure. But Christians did not sacrifice themselves in Roman circuses and many of their saints have continued to do so throughout history. And that is why Christianity is not called a sect, or Islam for generating among its ranks people who immolate themselves, causing terrifying attacks.
Fanatics will always exist in all types of religious movements. Therefore, if we begin to observe the facts better and analyze the causes from a different point of view, perhaps we can begin to realize that the lion is not as fierce as they paint it, that people can believe in whatever they want if does not harm others, that there are people capable of manipulating from a religious, political, etc. point of view, and that we have to call this, perhaps, anomalous behavior, and look for it in all areas of life .
In the end, if we want to use the term sect, we must think that it only identifies a group of people who share the same idea or body of beliefs and who do not harm anyone. Everything else is already part of human behavior, which is certainly anomalous in its singularity.
A watch that was melted during the August 6, 1945, atomic bombing of Hiroshima has sold for more than $31,000 at auction, the Associated Press reported.
Its arrows stopped at the moment of the detonation of the atomic bomb over the Japanese city – at 8:15 a.m. local time, according to the organizers of the auction from the Boston auction house RR Auction. It was purchased for $31,113 by a customer who preferred to remain anonymous.
The watch was discovered amid the rubble after the Hiroshima attack by a British soldier on a mission to secure emergency supplies and assess the city’s reconstruction needs, auction organizers said.
The lot was offered at the auction along with other historically significant items. Among them was a check signed by George Washington – one of only two known checks signed by him as President of the United States ever offered at auction. It sold for US$135,472. A copy of the Little Red Book signed by Mao Zedong has sold for US$250,000.
Illustrative Photo by Armin Forster: https://www.pexels.com/photo/the-ruin-of-hiroshima-prefectural-industrial-promotion-hall-in-hiroshima-japan-6489033/
fresh americano oragne coffee from fresh making drink for relaxing in home
It sounds almost paradoxical, but it is Great Britain with companies like We Love Lucid (“We love a clear mind”) that is considered the leader of a phenomenon that is gaining strength and supporters – sober tourism, or dry tripping.
Because – if we continue with the imported terms – we usually associate British tourists with pub-crawling, balcony-hopping and people driven to a helpless state by drinking, roaming the streets of the resorts of southern Europe – from Sunny Beach to the Costa del Sol.
And perhaps because of this, young residents of Great Britain show less and less interest in alcohol and drunken tourism.
The country’s Generation Z is shaping up to be the most sober on the Island, and according to a YouGov survey, almost 40% of 18-24-year-olds there don’t touch alcohol. We associate the British with this, but things are gradually changing.
The trend is complemented by surveys overseas, where Gallup found in 2023 that as many as 52% of people in the 18-34 age group in the US believe that moderate alcohol consumption is harmful to health.
For comparison, 39 percent of people aged 35 to 54 and only 29% of those over 55 think so.
Moreover, attitudes change quickly – 5 years earlier, only 34 percent of the youngest considered moderate drinking to be a bad thing.
And some more dry statistics – from the latest StudentUniverse report, which deals with the travel attitudes of the youngest. For it, 4,000 students from the USA, UK, Canada and Australia aged 18 to 25 were surveyed.
A whopping 83% say they would consider a holiday abroad without any alcohol – given that this is the group where, until recently, ‘travel’ was synonymous with ‘party’ and ‘clubbing’.
Among the main reasons for liking sober travel, students cite the likelihood of getting into dangerous situations if they drink, the preference to spend money on other things, and the desire not to screw up the next day. According to more and more people, it can be fun without alcohol.
“It’s not so widely accepted anymore that you have to drink alcohol to have fun. People are starting to challenge that narrative, so there’s a rise in demand for non-alcoholic drinks, events and entertainment,” says Lauren Burnison, founder of We Love Lucid , quoted by “Euronews”. Lauren herself stopped drinking years ago.
According to the US company Expedia, which supports ticket and hotel search platforms, “sober travel” is among the hottest trends for 2024.
“Today’s tourists are more interested in making memories than trying to remember what they did – over 40% say they are likely to book a detox trip,” according to the company, which also studied traveler attitudes.
The idea can also be described like this – people prefer to see the sunrise because they wake up early for an excursion or hike, not because they are just coming home.
“The mindset of “You only live once, I’ll drink everything I see” is being replaced by the idea that our free time is valuable,” commented Rhiannon Jones, an analyst at the consulting company Kantar.
There is still a lot of logic in this – without overdoing alcohol, tourists can get a lot more out of their vacation – see more places, instead of sleeping until noon and suffering from a hangover all day, rest better – and physically, both mentally and emotionally, and to pay less money by not going around bars and pubs.
Plus, travel itself is physically demanding — especially if it’s a long drive or long, transoceanic flights. Alcohol, even in small amounts, can only harm recovery and adaptation.
There are also psychological benefits to not drinking while traveling.
Alcohol acts as a depressant and without it people are more likely to enjoy their holiday, Victoria Waters, co-founder of Dry Atlas, which offers alternative drinks, told the BBC.
That is, large and regular amounts of alcohol can lead to anxiety and depressive symptoms, which is the last thing a person wants from their vacation.
From a business point of view, the trend leads to an increase in the supply of mocktails – non-alcoholic cocktails, and the appearance of all kinds of non-alcoholic beers and wines, which can be found in more and more hotels, restaurants and even on cruises.
Brussels, 27th February 2024 – On the occasion of World NGO Day, the European External Action Service (EEAS), spearheaded by High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell, has reaffirmed its unwavering support for civil society organizations (CSOs) worldwide. Amidst an alarming global trend of shrinking civic spaces and increasing hostility towards NGO workers, human rights defenders, and journalists, the EU has taken a stand to protect and empower these crucial pillars of democracy.
Civil society, often the voice for the most vulnerable, faces unprecedented challenges. From being branded as “foreign agents” to facing excessive force during peaceful protests, the environment for NGOs and civil society actors is becoming increasingly restrictive. In light of these challenges, the EU’s condemnation of attacks on freedom of association and peaceful assembly has never been more pertinent.
To combat these concerning trends, the EU is leveraging all tools at its disposal, including substantial financial support. A notable initiative is the EU System for Enabling Environment (EU SEE), launched in 2023 with a €50 million budget. This groundbreaking system aims to monitor and promote civic space in 86 partner countries, incorporating an EU SEE Monitoring Index, an early warning mechanism, and a rapid and flexible support mechanism (FSM). These tools are designed to bolster civil society’s resilience and swiftly respond to any deterioration or positive developments in civic freedoms.
The EU’s commitment extends beyond the EU SEE. The Global Europe Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) programme, with a €1.5 billion budget for 2021-2027, supports civil society organizations outside the EU. This is complemented by other programmes and sources, including nine partnerships totaling €27 million focused on fundamental freedoms and independent media, and the ‘Team Europe Democracy’ initiative, which pools €19 million from 14 Member States to enhance democracy and civic space.
Furthermore, the Protect Defenders.eu mechanism, with a €30 million budget until 2027, continues to offer vital support to Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) at risk, having assisted more than 70,000 individuals since its inception in 2015. Additionally, under the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III), the EU has committed €219 million for civil society and media in the Western Balkans and Türkiye for 2021-2023.
As the world prepares for the Summit of the Future, the EU emphasizes the importance of a robust role for civil society, including youth, in shaping the UN’s Pact for The Future. This engagement is crucial for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and upholding human rights.
On World NGO Day, the EU honors the invaluable contributions of civil society in fostering resilient and inclusive societies. The EU’s comprehensive support framework underscores its dedication to safeguarding a safe and open civic space worldwide, ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and protected.
The Crucial Role of NGOs in Protecting Freedom of Religion or Belief
On World NGO Day, we take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the vital work of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) around the globe, especially those dedicated to protecting the fundamental human right of Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB). This day serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting these organizations, as their efforts in safeguarding FoRB are not only pivotal in their own right but also facilitate a wide range of other humanitarian aid initiatives.
Freedom of Religion or Belief is a cornerstone of human rights, enshrined in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It ensures that individuals and communities can practice their religion or belief freely, without fear of discrimination or persecution. However, in many parts of the world, this right is under threat, with individuals facing violence, legal penalties, and social ostracization for their beliefs. In this context, NGOs working to protect FoRB play a critical role in advocating for the rights of these vulnerable populations, monitoring abuses, and providing support to victims.
The protection of FoRB is intrinsically linked to the broader spectrum of humanitarian aid. When individuals and communities are free to practice their beliefs, it fosters an environment of tolerance and peace, which is essential for the effective delivery of aid. Moreover, NGOs focused on FoRB often work in collaboration with other humanitarian organizations to address complex crises that involve elements of religious persecution. By ensuring that FoRB is protected, these NGOs contribute to creating stable societies where other forms of humanitarian assistance, such as education, healthcare, and disaster relief, can be more effectively implemented.
Furthermore, the work of these NGOs in protecting FoRB can lead to long-term societal benefits, including the promotion of pluralism, democracy, and human rights. By advocating for the rights of all individuals to practice their religion or belief freely, these organizations help to combat extremism and build resilient communities that are capable of withstanding and recovering from conflicts.
On World NGO Day, it is crucial to recognize the interconnectedness of human rights and humanitarian aid. Supporting NGOs that focus on protecting Freedom of Religion or Belief is not only a commitment to upholding a fundamental human right but also a strategic investment in the broader humanitarian mission. As we honor the invaluable contributions of these organizations, let us also commit to further supporting their efforts, understanding that in doing so, we are helping to facilitate all other types of humanitarian aid and contributing to the creation of a more just and peaceful world.
In recent years, Pakistan has grappled with numerous challenges concerning religious freedom, particularly regarding the Ahmadiyya community. This issue has once again come to the forefront following a recent decision by the Pakistan Supreme Court defending the right to free expression of religious beliefs.
The Ahmadiyya community, a minority Islamic sect, has faced persecution and discrimination in Pakistan for decades. Despite considering themselves Muslims, Ahmadis are deemed non-Muslims under Pakistani law due to their belief in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as a prophet after Muhammad. This theological difference has subjected them to severe social, political, and legal marginalization, including restrictions on religious practices, hate speech, and violence.
The recent ruling by the Pakistan Supreme Court represents a significant development in the ongoing struggle for religious freedom in the country. The court upheld the right of Ahmadis to self-identify as Muslims and express their beliefs without fear of prosecution, affirming the principles of freedom of religion and expression enshrined in Pakistan’s constitution.
However, despite this legal victory, challenges persist for the Ahmadiyya community. Deep-rooted societal prejudices and institutionalized discrimination continue to pose threats to their safety and well-being. Extremist groups often target Ahmadis with impunity, inciting violence and spreading hatred against them. Furthermore, discriminatory laws, such as Ordinance XX, which prohibits Ahmadis from practicing Islamic rituals or identifying as Muslims, remain in force, perpetuating their second-class status.
The international community has also raised concerns about religious freedom in Pakistan, urging the government to take concrete steps to address the plight of religious minorities, including the Ahmadiyya community. Organizations such as Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, Internantional Human Rights Committee and CAP Freedom of Conscience have called for the repeal of discriminatory laws and the protection of minority rights.
In response to mounting pressure, there have been some positive developments in recent years. Pakistan’s government has expressed commitment to safeguarding the rights of religious minorities and combating religious intolerance. Initiatives such as the National Commission for Minorities and efforts to promote interfaith harmony reflect a growing recognition of the importance of religious pluralism and tolerance in Pakistani society.
Nevertheless, genuine progress requires more than just legal reforms; it demands a fundamental shift in societal attitudes and the dismantling of entrenched discriminatory practices. It necessitates fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect, and understanding where all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs, can live freely and without fear.
As Pakistan navigates its complex socio-religious landscape, the case of the Ahmadiyya community serves as a litmus test for the nation’s commitment to religious freedom and pluralism. Upholding the rights of Ahmadis not only strengthens the fabric of Pakistani democracy but also reaffirms the country’s founding principles of equality, justice, and tolerance for all its citizens.
In a world where hostility towards religious minorities persists, the need for empowering responses to religious hatred has never been more urgent. The duty of States to prevent and respond to acts of violence and discrimination based on religion is firmly established in international human rights law. However, recent incidents of desecration and discrimination have reignited the debate on how best to address and prevent such acts.
On the 8th of March 2024, a pivotal event titled “Empowering Responses to Religious Hatred” will take place at Room XXV, Palais des Nations, Geneva.
This event, organized by ADF International and co-sponsored by Jubilee Campaign, CAP Liberté de Conscience, Fundación para la Mejora de la Vida, la Cultura y la Sociedad, aims to highlight the importance of empowering approaches rooted in international human rights law to combat religious hatred.
Distinguished speakers including Mrs. Fiona Bruce, MP, Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion of Belief, United Kingdom; H.E. Archbishop Ettore Balestrero, Apostolic Nuncio, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations Office; Mrs. Tehmina Arora, Director of Asia Advocacy, ADF International; Mr. Joseph Janssen, Advocacy Officer, Jubilee Campaign; and Mr. Jonas Fiebrantz, Advocacy Officer, ADF International, will lead a panel discussion on key questions surrounding religious hatred.
The panel will delve into crucial topics such as trends in violations against religious communities, the international human rights framework on responses to religious hatred, shortcomings of restrictive approaches, and examples of empowering practices. The event will conclude with a Q&A session, providing attendees with the opportunity to engage with the speakers and delve deeper into the discussion.
At a time when the rights and freedoms of religious minorities are under threat, it is essential for global stakeholders to come together and commit to implementing empowering strategies to combat religious hatred. States, the UN, civil society, and faith actors all have a role to play in promoting social resilience and upholding human rights in the face of religious intolerance.
I can only applaud such inclusive initiatives. Together, let us strive for a world where all individuals can practice their beliefs freely, without the threat of discrimination or violence. It is essential for global stakeholders to commit to implementing empowering strategies to combat religious hatred. All their support, commitment and advocacy is crucial in promoting social resilience and upholding human rights in the face of religious intolerance.
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The event concept note, along with the full list of co-sponsors, is available at this link.
Please confirm your attendance via email at [email protected] by no later than Monday, 4 March 2024.
In a pivotal speech delivered at the European Parliament plenary session in Strasbourg on 26th February 2024, Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB), expressed gratitude to the Parliament for its collaborative efforts in navigating Europe through economic challenges and geopolitical uncertainties. Lagarde emphasized the shared goal of enhancing prosperity and fortifying resilience in the face of evolving economic landscapes.
The speech centered on the ECB’s accountability and the importance of the ongoing dialogue between the ECB and the European Parliament, particularly in the context of the ECB Annual Report. Lagarde provided insights into the current state of the euro area economy, highlighting the impact of recent shocks on inflation and economic activity.
Key Points Addressed in the Speech:
Economic Overview: Lagarde outlined the challenges faced by the euro area economy, including fluctuations in inflation rates and subdued economic growth in 2023. Despite weaknesses in global trade and competitiveness, there are indications of a potential economic upturn in the near future.
Monetary Policy: The speech discussed the ECB’s monetary policy stance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining key policy interest rates to support the return of inflation to the two per cent medium-term target. Lagarde highlighted the need for a data-dependent approach in determining the appropriate level of restriction.
Euro Area Resilience: Lagarde underscored the necessity of strengthening the euro area’s resilience in the face of high energy prices, geopolitical instability, and structural challenges such as ageing and digitalization. She emphasized the importance of energy independence, investment in clean energy and green technologies, and deepening the Economic and Monetary Union.
Integration and Competitiveness: The speech emphasized the significance of a more integrated Single Market to enhance Europe’s competitiveness and resilience. Lagarde stressed the need for reducing regulatory obstacles, promoting innovation, and completing initiatives such as the Capital Markets Union and banking union to support growth and investment.
Conclusion: Lagarde concluded by calling for bold European action to advance integration and solidarity. She highlighted the importance of strengthening Europe’s unity and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges, reaffirming the ECB’s commitment to price stability and ongoing dialogue with EU representatives.
In her closing remarks, Lagarde echoed the sentiments of Simone Veil, emphasizing the importance of solidarity, independence, and cooperation in meeting Europe’s challenges. She expressed confidence in the Parliament’s role in driving decisive European action to enhance the euro area’s strength.
Lagarde’s speech underscored the ECB’s commitment to navigating economic uncertainties while fostering collaboration with European institutions to promote stability and prosperity in the region. It laid out a roadmap for addressing key economic and policy challenges facing the euro area, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in shaping Europe’s future.
President Vladimir Putin’s interview with American journalist Tucker Carson will be studied in Russian schools. The relevant materials are published on the portal for educational programs recommended by the Ministry of Education of Russia, reports The Moscow Times.
A recommendation to teachers prepared by the State Initiatives Support Agency called the two-hour interview a “significant educational resource” and recommended that it be used for “educational purposes” – in history lessons, social studies and “in the context of patriotic education”.
Teachers are encouraged to “lead class debates” in which students discuss the interview; to be involved in “research projects” related to the interview topics. “Analyze the interview as a media text” to “teach students to identify reliable sources of information,” the recommendation says.
It is recommended that Putin’s interview be used in history lessons for “analysis of contemporary international relations and their historical roots”. In social studies classes, it can be useful for “discussing civic responsibility and developing a critical view of contemporary political processes,” the memo said. It is also suggested to study the interview in literature (to “develop analytical skills”), geography (to “study the geopolitical situation of countries”) and even in foreign language and computer science classes (to “enrich vocabulary” and develop of “media literacy”).
“It is important for classroom teachers to read this interview because it can serve as a basis for discussions about the importance of civic responsibility and historical awareness,” write the authors of the material. They also point to the “educational potential of the interview”, which “consists in the ability to contribute to the formation of a civic position and national identity in students”.
When discussing the interview with children of participants in the war, teachers are advised to show “special attention to the emotional state of children”, not to limit them in expressing their feelings, and also to emphasize “the national support and unity of Russian society in this question”.
Putin’s interview was shown to Russian television viewers on the morning of February 9, but did not generate widespread interest.
With a rating of 2.9%, the interview took only 19th place in the list of the most popular TV programs for the week of February 4-11.
In the interview – the first to the Western press since the start of the war – Putin said Ukraine belonged to Russia’s “historic lands”, accused Austria of “policing” Ukraine before World War I and attributed the root causes of the February 2022 invasion to the era of Kievan Rus from the 9th century. He complained about Kiev’s refusal to implement the Minsk agreements and accused NATO of starting the “assimilation” of Ukrainian territory with the help of its “structures”.
