By Willy Fautré from Tbilissi – During yesterday’s demonstrations at the parliament, some citizens have brought diplomas – to mark the fact that the “Georgian Dream” presidential candidate, ex-footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili, is just a puppet of the pro-Kremlin party and lacks the needed education to bear the title of “President of Georgia.”
The protesters stated that the ongoing presidential elections in the Parliament of Georgia are an illegitimate process.
Protesters marching to the Georgian Parliament from various locations in Tbilisi on Monday 16 December
President Salome Zurabishvili has also arrived at Parliament, and police and special forces have been mobilized. Ministry of Internal Affairs personnel are stationed in the area surrounded by iron railings in front of the building.
The police forces are also deployed at Freedom Square, where water cannon vehicles are on standby.
Protesters marching to the Georgian Parliament from various locations in Tbilisi on Monday 16 December Source: Willy Fautré (HRWF) [email protected]
On 14 December, the electoral college elected the president of Georgia. Only one candidate, Mikheil Kavelashvili, had been nominated for the position. Opposition parties were not participating in the elections because they considered them illegitimate.
He is the first indirectly elected president in Georgia, a position he will hold for five years.
The presence of the majority of the full composition of the electoral college – at least 151 members – was sufficient to conduct indirect elections of the president.
The vote of 2/3 of the full composition of the collegium – at least 200 members – is enough to elect a president.
The collegium includes 150 members of the parliament, all members of the highest representative body of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara – a total of 21 deputies, all 20 members of the highest representative body of the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia and 109 members from the city councils.
The Chairman of the Central Election Commission said 225 members participated in the vote, with 1 ballot being invalid.
Kavelashvili received 224 votes in his favor. His candidacy was not supported by Ada Marshania, a member of the Supreme Council of Abkhazia, who stated that she did not approve of Kavelashvili’s candidacy.
The procedure took place in the Parliament’s plenary session hall.
The Chairman of the CEC handed over the final protocol to the Speaker of Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, and declared the election process complete.
Amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses to make it more repressive
This weekend, the Georgian Dream party adopted in a hurry amendments that will significantly increase sanctions for violations that the police usually use against demonstrators.
The new regulations provide for:
Increasing the fine for obstructing traffic from 1,000 to 2,000 GEL, and suspension of driving privileges for 1 year;
Increasing the fine for damaging the appearance of the city from 50 to 1,000 GEL and 2,000 GEL for repeat violations;
Increasing the fine for violating the norms of assemblies and demonstrations from 500 to 5,000 GEL and a fine of 15,000 GEL or administrative imprisonment for organizers;
Illegal wearing of an MIA uniform, punishable by a fine of 2,000 GEL and its confiscation;
Failure of a parent or other legal representative of a child to raise and educate a minor or to fulfill other duties towards him/her. This has been added to the commission of an act provided for in Article 173 of the same Code (disobedience to a lawful request of a law enforcement officer).
The amendments also expand the grounds on which a person can be detained, and their items or documents seized.
The new government is obviously trying to intimidate the population by disproportionately increasing sanctions for actions related to gatherings, demonstrations and protests.
As Christmas 2024 approaches, Archbishop Luc Terlinden embodies a spirit of hope and renewal that resonates deeply with Belgium’s Catholic community. With a background rooted in humility and action, Terlinden’s reflections and leadership signal a transformative vision for the Church, steeped in mercy, inclusivity, and faith.
A Leader of Renewal
Appointed Archbishop of Mechelen-Brussels in 2023, Luc Terlinden was an unexpected yet welcomed choice, rising from a simple priesthood to the helm of Belgium’s Catholic Church. Guided by his motto, Fratelli tutti (“All brothers”), his ministry has focused on fostering fraternity, modernizing Church practices, and addressing societal challenges head-on.
In his Christmas reflections, Terlinden draws inspiration from the birth of Jesus in humble surroundings, emphasizing that Christ’s incarnation represents God’s enduring presence amid humanity’s struggles. For the archbishop, Christmas is a profound reminder that faith and hope transcend adversity, just as Easter follows the crucifixion.
Addressing Challenges with Compassion
In a recent interview, Terlinden highlighted the Church’s ongoing mission to support the marginalized, particularly victims of abuse. Building on two decades of reform within the Belgian Church, he has championed further dialogue and concrete actions, acknowledging the pain of the past while striving for accountability and healing. His commitment to zero tolerance for abuse underscores a broader vision of justice and reconciliation.
A Vision of Inclusion and Dialogue
Terlinden also advocates for a more inclusive Church, emphasizing the essential role of women in leadership. He envisions a Church modeled on family dynamics—less hierarchical, more participatory, and attentive to all voices. His push for interfaith dialogue, especially amid global conflicts, has positioned him as a bridge-builder. Notably, he has proposed joint peace initiatives with leaders of other faiths, such as a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, symbolizing unity across religious divides.
Christmas as a Call to Action
The archbishop’s Christmas message extends beyond spiritual reflection to encourage active engagement. He urges believers to be witnesses of God’s love by addressing modern societal challenges such as poverty, climate change, and political polarization. Drawing from his personal encounters, such as the vibrant Hope Happening youth festival, he highlights the power of collective action to foster solidarity and renewal within the Church and society.
A Symbol of Hope
In harmony with Pope Francis’ global message of hope and the opening of the Jubilee Holy Doors this Christmas Eve, Archbishop Terlinden’s leadership exemplifies a Church in transformation. His call to celebrate Christ’s birth as a source of hope and his commitment to a synodal, inclusive, and mission-oriented Church inspire believers to look forward with renewed faith.
As Belgium and the world prepare to mark Christmas 2024, Terlinden’s vision invites all to embrace the season not only as a time of celebration but as a catalyst for compassion, unity, and change.
The European Union has adopted a transformative set of rules on product liability with its updated Product Liability Directive (PLD), which came into force on December 8, 2024. The changes represent a significant shift in how liability for defective products is addressed, particularly in light of the advent of digital technologies and the growth of global supply chains. EU Member States must integrate these rules into their national legislation by December 9, 2026.
The new PLD replaces the 1985 directive and adapts Europe‘s liability framework to meet the needs of the 21st century. The new directive ensures that individuals harmed by defective products, including both traditional items and advanced technology such as artificial intelligence, can seek compensation. The directive modernizes EU rules by focusing on three main objectives:
The new directive is fit for the digital age, expanding liability to include software, AI systems, and digital products.
The new PLD is designed to be adaptable to global supply chains. The directive ensures that victims can claim against EU-based entities, even if the manufacturer is outside the EU.
The new directive offers enhanced protection for victims and greater legal clarity. The directive also aims to streamline court processes, enabling claimants to access evidence proportionate to the case and easing the burden of proof where necessary.
Who is eligible to receive compensation?
The PLD provides compensation for any individual who has been harmed by a defective product, including the owner, bystanders, and family members. Claims may be filed for the following types of damage:
In the event of death or personal injury (including physical and psychological harm), damage to property, or destruction or corruption of data, compensation may be sought. While companies are generally excluded as claimants, some EU countries may provide separate rules allowing businesses to claim compensation for defective products.
Which parties may be held liable?
In the past, liability has typically rested with the manufacturer of the defective product. The new PLD provides that a victim may claim against additional parties where the manufacturer is not based in the EU, such as:
Importers or authorized representatives within the EU
Fulfillment service providers, in the absence of the above entities
Distributors, if no EU-based liable party is identified or fails to respond to information requests within one month
This framework ensures that victims always have recourse to an EU-based party.
Online Platforms Under Scrutiny
The PLD recognizes the growing role of e-commerce and explicitly clarifies the liability of online platforms, such as marketplace operators. In the event that a platform acts in the capacity of a manufacturer, importer, or distributor, they may be held legally responsible. It should be noted that even platforms acting as intermediaries may face liability under specific conditions, as outlined in the Digital Services Act (DSA).
What constitutes a “defective” product?
In accordance with the PLD, a product is considered defective if it fails to meet the requisite safety standards or applicable legal requirements. The directive applies to all types of products, including traditional goods, raw materials, and digital and connected products.
The definition of defectiveness has also been expanded to include software, whether as a standalone product or embedded in devices. This highlights the applicability of the directive to AI systems that evolve over time. To illustrate,
Defects resulting from updates, upgrades, or machine learning features are also covered. Manufacturers may still be held liable for issues that arise after release if the defect existed at deployment.
Modified Products: A New Responsibility
The rules also address the liability for significantly modified products, such as refurbished devices. A party that makes substantial modifications to a product is considered to have created a “new product,” which then falls under the manufacturer’s liability.
In what timeframe must victims submit a claim for compensation?
Claims for compensation for defective products may be made within a 10-year period from the date the product was first made available on the market. In the case of health-related issues, where damage may not be immediately apparent, the period is extended to 25 years. The legal action must be initiated within three years of the claimant becoming aware of the defect and damage.
It is also worth noting that a number of other measures have been introduced with the aim of ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Evidence Disclosure: Both claimants and defendants may request access to evidence necessary for the case, ensuring a level playing field in legal proceedings. Court Transparency: National supreme and appellate courts are required to publish product liability judgments, with an EU-wide database currently in development for public access.
What is the next step?
The new regulations will be officially applicable to products placed on the market as of December 9, 2026. For products launched prior to this date, liability will remain under the 1985 Directive. This transitional period allows manufacturers, online platforms, and other stakeholders to adapt to the new regulations.
Speaking from Gaza, Jonathan Dumont said many people have been displaced multiple times, and that families are living either in tents or in the rubble of collapsed buildings, with no access to electricity or running water.
The text has been edited for length and clarity.
UN News:How do you describe the situation on the ground in Gaza, after more than a year since the war erupted there?
Jonathan Dumont: The devastation is absolutely staggering. This year, I’ve been to Goma, Port-au-Prince, Khartoum, a lot of different places where people have issues getting food or have been displaced. But in Gaza, I haven’t met anyone who hasn’t been displaced at least two or three times, due to military activity.
People walk on destroyed buildings in Gaza.
Almost everyone has lost their home. In the south, a lot of people are living in tents, and with the winter coming, you have rain and wind blowing them over, flooding them. Most kids don’t have shoes.
A lot of people feel they have no choice but to go back to their homes, which are quite frequently, literally rubble. I met a few families who are living in basically the cement blocks that have collapsed over them, and there’s no electricity, running water or sewage. This is the second winter for many of them that they’re homeless.
UN News:You’ve been to the northern part of Gaza. Can you tell us more about what you saw there?
Jonathan Dumont: I’ve been to Gaza City, although I didn’t go to the areas in the far north. Gaza City is a huge city but many of the buildings have been destroyed. Before you had villas, beach cabanas and a fishing port, and now it is just a ghost town.
Much of Gaza has been destroyed in the ongoing conflict.
WFP is able to reach that area, so there’s some food there, but the food prices of what’s not coming from the international community, or from WFP, are through the roof. There was someone selling peppers for 195 dollars…five dollars for one pepper. People can’t afford that.
Bakeries are being treated as banks – with metal slots and a metal corridor to channel people through because people are desperate, and they don’t want people to get injured or crushed trying to get food.
In Khan Yunis, where we are distributing hot meals, people get really desperate – you can see it in their faces, in their eyes.
You can listen to the full interview here:
UN News:The IPC report warned of the acute hunger and maybe some of people are on the verge of famine. Do you think the food insecurity is getting worse in Gaza?
Jonathan Dumont: The problem is that there’s been a total breakdown of society here, there’s no police, no infrastructure or any of the structures of society. As a result, what we’ve had in the southern part of Gaza is that gangs are emerging. We’ve had our trucks coming in from the south looted, and our drivers beaten.
We are trying to find solutions to have a consistent flow of food in. Obviously, the easiest way to do that would be if there was a ceasefire, which we are always hopeful will happen. In the absence of that, we need to find a way of getting all the food that we have outside Gaza into the country so that people can access it. We need to make sure people have access to food.
UN News:Many of the bakeries are not functioning. How many of them are working at full capacity?
Jonathan Dumont: In the south there is none of the WFP’s bakeries which are big volume bakeries. In the north there are some, but in the south, there are just small bakeries, so people are improvising when they have some flour.
Independent UN Human Rights Council-appointed experts said in a statement that it represents a fundamental attack on women’s rights.
The legislation, which applies to children as young as 12, combines severe criminal penalties with mandatory citizen surveillance and systematic enforcement across all sectors of society, the experts added.
The Law on Protecting the Family through the Promotion of the Culture of Chasity and Hijab, represents what experts describe as “an intensification of State control over women’s bodies in Iran and a further assault on women’s rights and freedoms”.
The new legislation expands existing restrictions, targeting women and girls who fail to wear a hijab in both physical and online spaces. While the hijab requirements were already mandatory under Iran’s Islamic Penal Code, this new law introduces dramatically harsher consequences.
Violations can now result in extended prison sentences of up to 15 years and substantially increased fines. Most concerning to human rights experts is the provision allowing judges to impose the death penalty under the charge of “corruption on earth”.
Systematic impact on Iranian society
The law’s reach extends far beyond individual enforcement, embedding mandatory veiling and “culture of chastity” principles deep within Iranian society, the independent experts said.
Educational curricula, training programs and public information campaigns must now incorporate these concepts, effectively creating a State-sanctioned value system that experts warn will severely limit freedom of expression and belief.
“The law constitutes clear violation of fundamental human rights, legal norms and principles, including women’s rights to equality, freedom of expression, religion and belief, bodily autonomy, liberty, security and privacy, “the experts emphasised.
‘Climate of fear’
Additionally, the law’s approach to enforcement transforms ordinary citizens into agents of the State. The legislation requires individuals, families, and businesses to report instances of unveiling while also mandating extensive use of technology for enforcement purposes.
“These requirements will create a climate of fear and distrust among individuals and communities,” the experts warned, noting that severe economic punishments would likely hit vulnerable populations and groups including children, young persons, and social media users.
Long term consequences
The experts said that the enforcement will likely escalate violence against women and girls while further embedding systematic gender-based discrimination.
Harsh penalties along with citizen surveillance and institutional enforcement creates what they describe as a comprehensive system of gender-based persecution.
“We call upon the Government of Iran to immediately repeal the Hijab and Chasity Law and all other discriminatory legislation that perpetuates gender-based persecution,” the experts said, whilst confirming that they are in contact with the Government on this matter.
Special Rapporteurs and other independent rights experts are not UN staff, receive no salary for their work and have no connection to any government. They serve in their individual capacity.
In a significant move for global religious freedom, the UK Government has appointed David Smith MP as its new Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB). This appointment, announced in early December 2024, signals the government’s commitment to advancing religious liberty across the globe and responds to increasing concerns over the persecution of religious minorities in many parts of the world. Smith, a Conservative MP with a strong track record on human rights issues, takes on a critical role at a time when religious freedoms face unprecedented challenges worldwide.
A Crucial Appointment for Religious Freedom
The new position of Special Envoy for FoRB was created in 2019 as part of the UK’s ongoing commitment to defending freedom of religion or belief for people of all faiths and none. The envoy works with international partners, including governments and civil society, to promote religious freedom, counter religious persecution, and support those who are oppressed because of their faith.
The announcement of Smith’s appointment was welcomed by a wide range of religious and human rights organizations. According to a statement from the UK government, the role will involve championing religious freedom in diplomatic discussions, strengthening the international coalition for religious liberty, and advocating for policies that protect the rights of religious minorities worldwide. Smith’s responsibilities will also include monitoring global trends related to religious freedom and providing guidance on how the UK can support vulnerable communities.
The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) emphasized that the appointment of a dedicated envoy underscores the UK’s resolve to ensure that religious freedom remains a central tenet of its foreign policy.
David Smith: A Defender of Religious Liberty
David Smith, a Member of Parliament for over a decade, is known for his advocacy of human rights and his commitment to religious freedom. His appointment to this high-profile position is seen as a logical step, given his background in championing issues related to freedom of conscience, expression, and belief.
Smith has long been involved in supporting religious communities facing persecution, particularly Christians and other minorities in conflict zones like the Middle East. In his parliamentary work, he has regularly spoken out on the importance of religious freedom as a fundamental human right and has pushed for stronger UK and international action against regimes that suppress religious expression. Smith’s extensive experience working on humanitarian issues makes him a powerful advocate for those suffering under oppressive regimes.
As the new Special Envoy, Smith will now be tasked with expanding these efforts on a global scale, leveraging his political influence and relationships to press for meaningful change.
Welcoming the Appointment: Reactions from Religious Organizations
The appointment has been widely lauded by faith-based organizations and advocacy groups across the UK. Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), a charity that focuses on helping persecuted Christians around the world, praised the selection of Smith, calling it a “significant step” towards addressing the growing global crisis of religious persecution. ACN’s UK director, Dr. Neville Kyrke-Smith, expressed hope that Smith’s work would lead to more coordinated international efforts to protect vulnerable religious communities, particularly in regions like the Middle East and Africa where Christians and other religious minorities often face violent oppression.
Similarly, Christian Concern, an organization dedicated to defending religious freedom, commended the UK government’s decision. Andrea Williams, the CEO of Christian Concern, described the appointment as an “important signal” that the UK is serious about protecting religious freedom. Williams emphasized the importance of Smith working with international counterparts to counter the rise of state-sponsored persecution, especially in countries like China and North Korea, where the freedom to practice religion is severely restricted.
Care, a Christian public policy charity, also welcomed Smith’s appointment, underscoring the importance of having a designated official who can actively engage with international partners to address the complex challenges posed by religious intolerance and persecution. “Religious freedom is an essential human right that must be defended wherever it is threatened,” said a Care spokesperson. “We look forward to working with Mr. Smith to ensure that religious liberty is placed at the heart of the UK’s foreign policy.”
The Role of the UK Government in Global Religious Liberty Advocacy
The creation of the Special Envoy for FoRB was part of a broader initiative by the UK government to elevate religious freedom on the global stage. The UK’s involvement in FoRB issues has historically been robust, with the government regularly highlighting the issue at the United Nations and within diplomatic circles. However, the rise of authoritarian regimes and the ongoing persecution of religious minorities have made the role of the Special Envoy increasingly important.
Smith’s predecessor, Fiona Bruce MP, held the position of Special Envoy for FoRB until recently, and during her tenure, she made significant strides in raising awareness of religious persecution worldwide. She met with Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Scientologists, Bahai’s, Latrer Day Saints and everyone who needed to meet with her. Under her leadership, the UK government took steps to support vulnerable religious groups, including the Yazidis in Iraq, Christians in the Middle East, and Uyghur Muslims in China. Smith’s appointment builds upon this legacy, and experts believe that his extensive experience will help to elevate the UK’s influence on this critical issue.
Smith’s work will not only focus on diplomatic efforts but will also involve collaborating with international civil society groups, religious leaders, and grassroots organizations that are directly involved in defending religious freedom. As the UK’s representative, Smith will be expected to engage with a wide range of stakeholders to foster international cooperation in addressing religious persecution.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the broad support for Smith’s appointment, there are significant challenges ahead. Religious persecution continues to rise in various regions of the world, with many countries adopting increasingly restrictive policies on religion and belief. In China, for example, the government continues to impose heavy restrictions on religious practices, particularly targeting Christian and Muslim communities. In countries like Nigeria and Pakistan, religious minorities such as Christians, Yazidis, and Hindus continue to face violence, discrimination, and displacement.
The Special Envoy’s role is not without its difficulties. Advocating for religious freedom in countries with hostile regimes can be politically sensitive, and the envoy must carefully balance diplomatic priorities with the need to confront human rights abuses. Moreover, given the complexity of global geopolitics, there will be times when the UK’s stance on religious freedom may clash with its economic or strategic interests in certain regions.
However, with Smith’s experience and commitment to the cause, the UK government’s approach to FoRB looks poised to continue making meaningful strides in the global fight for religious freedom.
Conclusion: A Beacon for Global Religious Liberty
David Smith’s appointment as the UK’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief represents a significant step forward in the fight to protect religious freedoms across the world. In a time of rising persecution and intolerance, Smith’s work will be essential in shining a spotlight on the plight of religious minorities and advocating for their rights on the global stage.
With the support of religious and human rights organizations, the UK’s commitment to religious freedom is stronger than ever, and Smith’s appointment signals that the country is ready to continue playing a leading role in defending this fundamental human right. As the world’s attention turns increasingly to issues of religious freedom, the role of the Special Envoy will remain crucial in shaping global responses and ensuring that the freedom to practice one’s faith is protected for all.
In a much-awaited speech marking one year since his inauguration, Argentina’s President Javier Milei presented a comprehensive and impassioned address, celebrating what he described as a transformative year for the nation. The speech, titled “The Most Important Announcement,” aimed to highlight the government’s achievements, justify the challenges faced by citizens, and outline a vision for Argentina’s future. While supporters praised his radical reforms, critics remained uncertain about the long-term viability of his policies.
“Dear Argentines, I want to begin by thanking you all,” Milei opened, expressing gratitude for the perseverance shown by ordinary citizens. Referring to the so-called “model of the caste” that he blamed for decades of mismanagement, he declared: “The sacrifice you’ve made is moving. I assure you, it will not be in vain.”
Milei acknowledged that his first year in office involved what he described as a “trial by fire,” citing measures that caused short-term pain but aimed at long-term gain. “When I took office, inflation was running at an annualized rate of 17,000%,” he stated, referring to hyperinflationary pressures that had gripped the economy. According to Milei, through aggressive fiscal measures, inflation is now under control, with the wholesale index showing just 1.2% for October.
Economic Overhaul
Central to Milei’s address was a detailed breakdown of his economic reforms. He highlighted the elimination of Argentina’s staggering fiscal deficit, turning it into a sustained surplus for the first time in over a century. “This was achieved through the largest adjustment in the history of humanity,” he said, emphasizing the controversial decision to halt monetary emissions. By cutting public spending and slashing government subsidies, Milei claims to have stabilized the economy and opened the doors to foreign investment.
On international debt, Milei painted a stark contrast between the state of affairs a year ago and today: “The debt with importers, which stood at $42.6 billion, is now cleared. Our trade surplus is growing, and reserves are being rebuilt.”
The Motosierra Plan in Action
A hallmark of Milei’s campaign was his pledge to wield a figurative “chainsaw” (motosierra) against public spending and government bloat. In his speech, he proclaimed significant progress in streamlining the state apparatus. “We’ve reduced ministries from 18 to 8 and eliminated nearly 100 redundant agencies. Public sector employees must now pass competency exams to keep their jobs.”
Milei’s critics argue that his drastic cuts to government services risk creating gaps in vital sectors. Nonetheless, he reiterated his belief that “a smaller state means greater liberty” and promised even more aggressive reforms in the coming year.
Social Policies and Public Order
The President also tackled the hot-button issue of public security. He touted a 63% reduction in homicides in Rosario, the epicenter of Argentina’s drug violence, attributing the success to his “Plan Bandera” and a tough-on-crime approach. “The streets are no longer dominated by fear and lawlessness,” he declared, adding that offenders are now compelled to work to repay their debt to society.
On social welfare, Milei emphasized that direct transfers to citizens, bypassing intermediaries, had restored dignity to the vulnerable. “A year ago, the Universal Child Allowance covered just 60% of the basic food basket. Today, it fully covers 100%,” he claimed.
Towards a Free-Market Future
Milei’s vision for Argentina’s economic future hinges on radical free-market principles. He announced the introduction of a monetary competition system, allowing Argentines to transact in any currency, including U.S. dollars. “We are laying the groundwork to eliminate the Central Bank entirely,” he said, framing this as a solution to Argentina’s chronic inflation.
His administration has also prioritized deregulation. “Over 800 regulations have been scrapped,” Milei boasted, citing industries from pharmaceuticals to e-commerce as beneficiaries. He also called for Argentina to embrace free trade, pushing for a historic agreement with the United States.
An Optimistic Outlook
Milei ended his speech on an optimistic note, promising that 2024 would mark a year of “high growth and low inflation.” He attributed this to structural reforms and the government’s ability to attract significant foreign investment. Highlighting Argentina’s potential to become a global hub for artificial intelligence and clean energy, he asserted, “We have the resources, talent, and freedom to lead in the technologies of tomorrow.”
Despite the ambitious rhetoric, the challenges ahead are immense. Social unrest, unemployment, and the erosion of public trust in institutions remain hurdles. Milei’s speech did not delve into these complexities, focusing instead on the positive outcomes of his administration.
Polarized Reactions
For supporters, Milei’s reforms represent a long-overdue reckoning with a bloated state and a corrupt political class. His aggressive deregulation and fiscal discipline have earned him comparisons to historical reformers.
However, critics argue that the speed and scale of his reforms risk destabilizing the economy and exacerbating inequality. Labor unions and opposition parties accuse him of prioritizing foreign investors over domestic welfare. Some fear that deregulation may erode labor protections and environmental safeguards.
Looking Ahead
Milei’s first year has been nothing short of transformative, characterized by bold policies and polarizing rhetoric. While his supporters see the makings of an “Argentine miracle,” skeptics remain unconvinced. As Argentina braces for another electoral year, Milei’s agenda will undoubtedly be a defining factor in the nation’s political and economic future.
Spain’s center-right Popular Party (PP) is intensifying its campaign to pressure Nicolás Maduro’s regime for the release of two Spanish citizens detained in Venezuela. As reported by Spanish newspaper El Mundo, José María Basoa and Andrés Martínez Adasme face unsubstantiated charges of espionage and conspiracy against the Venezuelan president. The PP’s initiative aims to rally European and international support for their immediate and unconditional release, while calling for tougher sanctions on Maduro’s regime.
As Nicolás Maduro seeks to secure a new presidential term, widely considered fraudulent by the international community, the PP is pursuing a multi-pronged strategy to hold the regime accountable. Among the measures proposed are:
Diplomatic Campaign: The PP has submitted a motion to Spain’s Congress demanding that the Sánchez government spearhead a diplomatic offensive, both domestically and internationally, to advocate for the detained Spaniards.
Enhanced Sanctions: The party is urging the Spanish government to push for an expansion of European Union sanctions against top Venezuelan officials. Proposed measures include additional asset freezes, travel bans, and stricter economic restrictions.
International Condemnation:Spain is called upon to lead efforts for a global denunciation of Maduro’s repressive practices, particularly the use of unfounded espionage allegations to target foreign nationals and opposition figures.
Repression Under Maduro’s Rule
It would seem that the arrests of Basoa and Martínez Adasme are not isolated incidents. The PP suggests that these incidents may be indicative of a broader pattern of political persecution by Maduro’s regime, which has been known to employ fabricated charges in an effort to silence dissent. It would seem that Venezuelan human rights groups and international observers have identified a growing reliance on intimidation and arbitrary detentions by the regime as a means of maintaining power.
As the new term of President Maduro approaches, European nations are facing an increasing number of calls to take action. The PP’s campaign is in line with calls from the Venezuelan diaspora and global democracy advocates for more robust measures against a regime that has been accused of undermining democratic principles and violating human rights.
Europe’s Role in the Crisis
The Popular Party believes that Spain has a responsibility to play as a leading European voice on Latin American issues. Spain could play a role in supporting democracy and human rights in Venezuela by using its influence in the EU to push for unified actions against Maduro’s government, from sanctions to political pressure.
It is anticipated that the motion will be discussed in Spain’s Foreign Affairs Committee, while the Senate will consider a resolution encouraging the government to consider a contingency plan (“Plan B”) should Maduro remain in power.
Brussels — The European Parliament has taken the initiative to approve new committees with the intention of addressing key issues facing citizens. In a constructive move, leaders of political groups have announced the establishment of two new standing committees and two special committees, reflecting the European Parliament’s (EP) commitment to addressing pressing citizen concerns. This decision, made during a crucial meeting on Friday, is intended to enhance the EP’s ability to address contemporary challenges in security, health, democracy, and housing.
It is worth noting that the subcommittee on Security and Defence has been upgraded to a full standing committee. In light of the growing number of global security threats and the intensifying debates over defense strategies, this committee will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping Europe‘s strategic responses. Similarly, the transformation of the Public Health subcommittee into a standing committee is a timely move, given the need for robust and ongoing legislative oversight in the face of health crises, such as pandemics and public health emergencies.
Furthermore, the establishment of two special committees demonstrates the EP’s proactive approach to addressing urgent matters. The Special Committee on European Democracy Shield will endeavor to protect democratic values and institutions throughout the EU, a welcome response to mounting concerns over electoral integrity and citizen engagement. Meanwhile, the Special Committee on the Housing Crisis is seeking to address the growing challenges many Europeans face in securing affordable housing, which has become a pressing issue in numerous member states.
The full House is scheduled to vote on these proposals on Wednesday, December 18, at noon, at which time the details regarding the committees’ mandates, membership, and terms of office are expected to be finalized. Following this vote, we will proceed to announce the lists of appointed members in a subsequent plenary session.
In light of this growing public interest in the workings of the EU and its institutions, it seems appropriate to consider these developments. It would seem that there is a growing need for effective governance that resonates with the electorate. The Conference of Presidents, which made this decision, highlighted the value of aligning the European Parliament’s Rules of Procedure with these changes, ensuring that the updated standing committees reflect citizens’ expectations and the EP’s strategic objectives.
As Europe faces a range of complex challenges, from security threats to health emergencies and housing shortages, the establishment of these new committees is an encouraging sign of a commitment to responsive and responsible leadership. The vote on December 18th will be watched with interest, with many hoping that these committees will bring about positive change and renewed hope for European citizens confronting these pressing issues.
Washington, D.C., Dec 13 – Final In-person IRF Roundtable of 2024 Honors IRF Ambassador, Rashad Hussain on Capitol Hill
On December 9, the IRF Roundtable convened in the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill for its final in-person IRF Roundtable of the year. Representatives from civil society and the U.S. Government discussed ongoing initiatives and challenges in advancing international religious freedom.
The meeting commenced with co-chairs Greg Mitchell and Nadine Maenza recognizing Ambassador Rashad Hussain’s exemplary service as Ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom in the U.S. Department of State. The IRF Roundtable community expressed deep gratitude for Ambassador Hussain’s steadfast participation in discussions and extended best wishes for his future endeavors. In turn, Ambassador Hussain conveyed his appreciation for the collective efforts of the IRF Roundtable participants.
Nominated in July 2021 and confirmed on January 24, 2022, by President Joseph Biden, Ambassador Rashad Hussain “serves as principal advisor to the Secretary and advisor to the President on religious freedom conditions and policy. He leads the Department’s efforts to monitor religious freedom abuses, persecution, and discrimination worldwide. He also oversees policies and programs to address these concerns and works to build diverse and dynamic partnerships with the broadest range of civil society, with equitable and meaningful inclusion of faith actors globally.”
Alongside Ambassador Hussain, other U.S. Government special guest speakers included:
Erin Singshinsuk, Executive Director, United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF)
Amanda Vigneaud, Initiative Lead, Center for Faith-Based & Neighborhood Partnerships, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
Miranda Jolicoeur, Director, Justice, Human Rights, and Security Office, USAID
Jenny Yang, External Relations Officer, United Nations Refugee Agency, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
The IRF Roundtable concluded with civil society representatives addressing critical issues in Turkey, Pakistan, India, Egypt, South Korea, and Burma, alongside global efforts to assist prisoners of conscience. Participants also discussed several active multi-faith letters:
An urgent call for the cessation of legal proceedings against detained university students associated with the Hizmet movement in Turkey.
A letter of collective support for Senator Marco Rubio’s ongoing dedication to promoting international religious freedom.
An additional letter encouraging Senator Rubio’s continued advocacy for prisoners of conscience should he assume the role of Secretary of State.
Before and after the IRF Roundtable meeting, participants gathered together for light holiday refreshments sharing best wishes to their fellow advocates during this time of hope, gratitude, and for many — prayer for peace in the world. The IRF Secretariat extended heartfelt thanks to all participants – both in-person and online – for their unwavering commitment to advancing international religious freedom.
Ambassador Rashad Hussain,
In sincere appreciation for your dedication and impact during your years of service as our Ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom. We are grateful for your ongoing collaboration with the IRF Roundtable.
