#global peace index 2017

[yesterdaysnewstodayandtomorrow]

Sport Venue & Event Management Entry 3

Olympic Games legacy

The Olympic Games is an event with grandeur like no other. The Olympic Games legacy of a country hosting the event can be measured by the economic effects of the budgeting, and construction within a city. Lack of consideration in legacy planning when planning on hosting an Olympic Games can lead to the “white elephant phenomenon” (Kobe et al., 2021). This occurs when the development and construction of venues in preparation for the mega-event in a city are no longer utilised or used frequently enough due to a lack of future planning. These venues can then become visually unappealing and run down. Dowling and Harris (2022) suggest research supports the idea that the Olympic Games legacy spruiked by politicians when pitching the event to the public, is rarely valid. They go on to explain there is evidence the 2012 London Olympics and Paralympics goal to ‘inspire a generation’ by increasing youth participation in sports failed. These results can vary across each Olympic Games however there has been an increasing negative sentiment amongst sections of the public around the adverse legacy left on host cities after the Olympics.

There can also be positive effects of the Olympic Movement before, during and well after the Olympic Games are held in a city, with the benefits being long-term (Olympics, 2024). Economic benefits of hosting an Olympic Games can include a region and country developing: their global profile; the business sector; career opportunities; diplomatic relations; the tourism and events industry; and the knowledge and skills of their workforce. Scheu et al. (2021) explain research into the legacy of the Olympic Games has mainly been done on the Summer rather than Winter Olympic Games with a focus on beliefs and behaviours, and the urban development facet of legacy.

Muller et al. (2021) comparison of the 16 Olympic Games between 1992 and 2020 found the sustainability of the event has declined over time however, overall the event still has a medium level of sustainability with the cost of hosting a main issue. Within the Legacy Strategic Approach Moving Forward document put together by the International Olympic Committee, they outline key Sustainable Development Goals they aim to contribute to (International Olympic Committee, 20217). The reasoning behind legacy being so important to the Olympic Movement is it supports the Olympic Movements vision of building a better world through sport. Harmonious development of humankind and stimulating peaceful society can be a by-product of the service of sport at the Olympic level.

a, Mean values of nine sustainability indicators. b, Distribution of values. Dots show the mean value; middle lines show the median; box limits show upper and lower quartiles; whiskers show maximum/minimum.

References

Dowling, M., & Harris, S. (2022, July 27). London 2012 Olympics: how it boosted medal winning but failed to inspire a generation. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/london-2012-olympics-how-it-boosted-medal-winning-but-failed-to-inspire-a-generation-187383

International Olympic Committee. (2017). Key Sustainable Development Goals to which the IOC aims to contribute [screenshot]. Legacy Strategic Approach Moving Forward. https://stillmed.olympics.com/media/Document%20Library/OlympicOrg/Documents/Olympic-Legacy/IOC_Legacy_Strategy_Full_version.pdf

IOC Media. (2020, October 31). World Cities Day 2020: The power of sport to build healthier, more sustainable urban communities [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzcmd9Xw9cs&list=PLX9eJ_kgiRLbTtixNPzdvVYMWtkLnFVaU&index=2

Koba, T., Gong, H., Ross, W. J., & Grady, J. (2021). Sustainable Olympic development: A proposed benchmark for managing economic outcomes. Journal of Global Sport Management, 6(1), 49-69. https://doi.org/10.1080/24704067.2019.1565925

Müller, M., Wolfe, S. D., Gaffney, C., Gogishvili, D., Hug, M., & Leick, A. (2021). An evaluation of the sustainability of the Olympic Games. Nature sustainability, 4(4), 340-348. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-021-00696-5

Olympics. (2024). Olympic Legacy. IOC. https://olympics.com/ioc/olympic-legacy

Olympic Legacy. (2024). About the project. https://olympiclegacy.eu/index.php/about-the-project/

Scheu, A., Preuß, H., & Könecke, T. (2021). The legacy of the Olympic Games: A review. Journal of Global Sport Management, 6(3), 212-233. https://doi.org/10.1080/24704067.2019.1566757

[brexiiton]

Warning Middle East conflict is fanning new wave of terrorist attacks during record election year

By Richard Wood, 6:20am Mar 1, 2024

Deaths caused by terrorist attacks across the world have spiked to their highest level in seven years, new research has found.

There are concerns last October's attack by Hamas on Israel has stoked a new wave of politically-motivated violence in coming months.

And researchers are concerned about potential attacks when crucial elections are held in about 50 countries, including the United States, Britain and India. Nearly half the world's population is expected to cast votes.

The Hamas attacks on Israel last October risk triggering a wave of terrorist attacks this year, a think tank has warned. (AP Photo/Hassan Eslaiah)

The warnings come in the Global Terrorism Index 2023, produced by the Australian think-tank, the Institute for Economics & Peace.

Total deaths from terrorism rose by 22 per cent to 8352 last year, the highest since 2017, the study said.

Even excluding the October 7 attacks in the Middle East, fatalities would still have increased by 5 per cent.

The institute's executive director, Steve Killelea, said if unchecked, the Gaza violence risked spreading across the world.

"Conflict remains the primary driver of terrorism, yet most wars in the 21st century have been unwinnable and very costly.

The epicentre of global terrorism has shifted away from the Middle East in recent years.. (AP)

"Terrorism also thrives in areas of political instability; it is imperative that current political tensions and minor conflicts do not escalate and that current conflicts are resolved, otherwise further increases in terrorism are likely."

The research shows that while acts of terrorism across the world dropped by 22 per cent to 3350 last year, the attacks were more deadly and increasingly concentrated.

Sub-Saharan Africa has overtaken the Middle East as the epicentre of global terrorism, which now accounts for more than half of deaths.

The West African nation of Burkina Faso was the worst in the world, with deaths increasing by 68 per cent.

It has been ravaged by growing jihadi attacks linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group that have killed thousands, displaced more than two million people and pushed tens of thousands to the brink of starvation.

The West African nation of Burkina Faso suffered the most deaths from terrorism in 2023. (AP Photo/Sunday Alamba, File)(AP)

Western nations recorded 23 attacks last year, a 55 per cent fall in attacks compared with 2022 and considerably lower than the peak of 176 assaults in 2017.

Sixteen of those attacks occurred in the United States, with only five countries in the West recording any attacks at all, and only Belgium and the US recording any deaths.

[abhishekbajaj01-blog]

Malaysia - A Safe Place For Students to Live and Study

Malaysia ranks 29th on the Global Peace Index (2017) and offers students a safe environment in which to study. Furthermore, Malaysia’s government has invested significantly into education in order to make Malaysia an international study destination with numerous world-class universities that offer quality education at reasonable costs. International students travelling to Malaysia will find its…

[vividmaps]

Global Peace Index 2017 http://www.vividmaps.com/2017/06/global-peace-index-2017.html

[realtalkingpoints]

This is why the U.N. is a useless organization.

From the piece:

Iran is one of the most oppressive countries to women on Earth. According to the World Economic Forum’s 2017 Global Gender Gap Report, Iran ranks 140 out of 144 countries in terms of gender parity. The Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security Index ranked Iran 116 out of 153 countries because of their legal discrimination against women.

The Index explains, “legal discrimination is a significant barrier to gender equality in Iran and is among the factors pulling the index rank down to 116. According to the World Bank, there are 23 restrictions against married women in Iranian law, including in applying for a passport, traveling outside the home, choosing where to live, and being head of the household.”

[creepingsharia]

A Killing Field of Defenseless Christians: 350 Killed in Jan & Feb 2020

A SPECIAL REPORT (click to read)

(dedicated to victims of Islamic jihad in Nigeria)

Onitsha, Eastern Nigeria, Sunday, 8th March 2020

Nigeria has fully become a killing field of defenseless Christians. Available statistics have shown that between 11,500 and 12,000 Christian deaths were recorded in the past 57 months or since June 2015 when the present central Government of Nigeria came on board. Out of this figure, Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen accounted for 7,400 Christian deaths, Boko Haram 4000 and the ‘Highway Bandits’ 150-200.

While 100 percent of the victims of Jihadist Herdsmen attacks across Nigeria are Christians, the estimated 4000 Christians killed by Boko Haram were part of the estimated 6000 massacred by the sect since June 2015. Generally, many, if not most of the victims of Boko Haram/ISWAP attacks in Nigeria’s Northeast are Christians. On the part of ‘Bandits/Highway Kidnappers’ in Northern Nigeria, most of their rural victims are Muslims while many, if not most of their outlet or roadside victims are Christians traveling to Northern or Southern parts of the country using the Birnin-Gwari Federal Road, near Kaduna, etc.

Also, in the past two months or Jan and Feb 2020, no fewer than 350 Christian deaths have been recorded and between 100 and 150 Christian travelers abducted on highways. And out of the 350 Christian deaths, Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen accounted for no fewer than 250 and Boko Haram and ‘Highway Bandits’ accounted for the remaining 100 deaths. The Killings targeted at Christians in Nigeria have continued into the first week of March 2020 leading to hacking to death of over a dozen more.  

Among the worst hit in the latest round of Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen attacks are Plateau State with 70-80 deaths, Kaduna 50 deaths, Kogi 30 deaths, Benue 15-20, Delta 16 and Taraba 10. Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen have also in the past two months of Jan and Feb 2020 carried out attacks in Nasarawa, Adamawa, Edo and other parts of the country, leading to death of dozens of Christians.

The anti Christian attacks by Boko Haram since Jan 2020 have also intensified in Borno, Adamawa and Taraba States; claiming between 50 and 70 Christian lives and loss of churches and other buildings belonging to Christians, while those of “Highway Bandits/Kidnappers” included raiding and looting of Christian villages and ambushing of Christian travelers.

By the account of the Vanguard Newspaper, “320 persons were killed in Nigeria in the month of Jan 2020” and by that of Sahara Reporters, “223 persons died in Nigeria in the month of Feb 2020”.  The 2019 Global Terrorism Index also stated that “2,040 persons (all Christians) were killed by radicalized Fulani militants in Nigeria in 2018 alone”.  Intersociety, on its part,stated in March 2019 that ‘no fewer than 2400 defenseless Christians were hacked to death by Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen in 2018 alone and in 2019; the number went down to between 1000 and 1,200 Christian deaths.’ These are just to cite but few.

In all, not less than 10,475 Christians were hacked to death by non state actor Jihadists in the past 57 months, out of which Fulani Jihadists accounted for about 62% or 7,400 deaths. At the state actor level, the country’s security forces (Army, Air Force and Police) have been responsible for 1,050 Christian deaths. All the deaths occurred outside the law and were perpetrated in gross violation of the international human rights and humanitarian laws. Till date, the perpetrators of these heinous crimes or atrocities have remained on the prowl.

We Have Monitored Violence Against Christians In Nigeria Since 2010

Expertly speaking, the Int’l Society for Civil Liberties & the Rule of Law-INTERSOCIETY; formed and registered in Nigeria since 2008, is a leading investigative and research rights advocacy group in the country. Led by criminologists, lawyers, journalists, security, peace and conflict studies’ graduates; Intersociety opposes inter-faith violence or killing in the name of radical Islamism including persecution of Christians and destruction or burning of churches and other Christian worship centers. 

Intersociety had monitored and documented killing of Christians in Nigeria since 2010 and spoken out against same using several dependable mainstream and online media platforms of local and international credibility. In its monitoring and documentation, Intersociety relies on credible local and foreign media reports, eyewitnesses’ accounts and reports from Christian bodies and church media. Also relied upon are reports from local and international rights and research organizations and credible Government accounts (if any). 

 20 Clergymen Killed & 50 Abducted Since June 2015

No fewer than 20 clergymen including at least eight Catholic Priests/Seminarians were hacked to death in the past 57 months and not less than 50 abducted or kidnapped. Among the slain Priests are Rev Father Clement Ugwu, abducted and killed on 14th March 2019, Rev Father Paul Offu abducted and killed on 1st August 2019 and Rev Fathers Joseph Gor and Felix Tyolaha killed by Jihadist Herdsmen  at St. Ignatius Quasi Parish Ukpor-Mbalom (Benue) on 24th April 2018. Among the newest victims of killings targeted at Nigerian Christian leaders are Reverend Pastor Lawan Andimi and Reverend Pastor Denis Bagauri, all top officials of CAN in Adamawa State.

The abducted priests or clergymen included Catholic priests (Fathers Dim, Ezeokana and Chukwuemeka) abducted while returning from Nsukka to Onitsha and Nnewi when they were attacked by Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen in Sept 2016 along Nkpologwu-Nimbo Road in Enugu State. One of them later died. On the same Monday 26th September, 2016, a Vincentian Igbo Priest whose name was not given was also kidnapped with his brother along Abuja-Lokoja express way.  

Five pastors of the Reverend Enoch Adeboye owned RCCG; all Igbo citizens were abducted on Friday, 2nd August 2019, but later freed. The five Igbo-pastors are: Deaconess Ibelegbo Chidinma, Chidozie Eluwa, Chiemela Iroha, Okoro Ohowukwe and Ndubuisi Owuabueze.

In Dec 2018, two Catholic Priests were abducted by suspected Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen. The two Priests were of St Teresa’s Catholic Church Umueze Anam in Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State. The source said the priests were abducted at Umuleri while returning from an official function. This is just to cite but few.

Christian Travelers Abducted In Their Hundreds

Targeting and abducting Christian travelers on highways particularly in Northern Nigeria who are mainly citizens of Igbo extraction have also intensified and taken a dangerous dimension in recent months-whereby the victims are separated at gunpoint according to their tribe and religion. Same is applicable to victims of house to house raiding and looting during which Christians are separated from others at gunpoint and taken away or killed on the spot.

Christians particularly those of Igbo extraction are waylaid on highways and abducted into the bush and forced to pay ransom or face death including beheading or forceful conversion to Islam. Women among them are routinely subjected to sexual violence including rape and other forms of sexual assault.  On 14th Jan 2020, no fewer than 58 Igbo Christian travelers through the Ezenwata Transport’s Luxury Bus were ambushed and forced to stop after which they were abducted.

The Boko Haram, Jihadist Herdsmen and “Highway Bandits” have been abducting travelers on major Nigerian highways including Abuja-Okene, Birnin-Gwari-Kaduna and Benin-Ore Federal Roads, etc. The abductees are held and tortured in captivity until they pay ransoms running into millions of naira each. Those who are unable to pay run the high risk of being killed or raped to death in captivity, if they are young women.

Jihadists Have Forced 4m-5m Christians To Flee & Destroyed 2000 Churches In 57 Months

Ceaseless killing of Christians in Nigeria particularly since June 2015 and burning or destruction of their churches and other worship centers followed incessant attacks against them by Boko Haram/ISWAP, Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen and a branch of Boko Haram, called “Bandits/Highway Kidnappers” who engage in roadway abductions and armed robberies and house to house lootings; all for purpose of radical propagation of Islam and raising of ‘blood funds’ for themselves and advancement of their terror activities.

Generally, the number of indigenous Northern Christians forced to flee their ancestral homes, farmlands and sacred places of worship so as to escape being hacked to death or face forceful conversion to Islam and concomitant sexual violence or enslavement had sharply risen from “over 1.3m in 2014” (Open Doors Report 2015) to between 4m and 5m. The affected population had fled the country or relocated to some less risky capital cities in Northern Nigeria or cities and communities in the Southeast, South-south and Southwest parts of the country. The educated among them have become “urban refugees”.

The total number of Jihadist Herdsmen and Boko Haram generated internally displaced persons and refugees in Northern Nigeria-mostly Christians, are presently estimated at 3m, rising from 2.6m as at 2017. Among the refugees are some ’90,000 Christian dominated Nigerian refugees (from Borno’s Gwoza alone) presently in Cameroon. Joined in fleeing the Islamic jihad affected parts of the North are sizeable number of Igbo Christian population resident in the areas, but now resettled in the Southeast and the South-south parts of the country.

The number of churches and other Christian worship centers destroyed or burnt since June 2015 in the North has also risen to over 2000, out of which Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen account for over 1500 while Boko Haram accounts for 500 others. Of the churches destroyed or burnt by Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen, Benue, Plateau and Southern Kaduna are the worst hit.

In eight years, between 2011 and 2019, Benue State had lost not less than 600 churches and other Christian worship centers to Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen. By the account of Open Doors Int’l, “over 13,000 churches and 1,500 Christian schools were destroyed or burnt; with 11,500-12,500 Christians killed and over 1.3 million forced to flee their homes to escape being hacked to death by Boko Haram Jihadists between 2009 and 2014”.

Concise Background Of Christian Population In Nigeria & Their Settlements In The North

Nigeria is home to between 95m and 100m Christians, out of which estimated 30m (indigenous) Christians are found in the North. This is going by the country’s estimated total population of 200m citizens. The indigenous Northern Christian population is boosted by estimated 11m-12m Christians dominated by Christian citizens of Igbo extraction living in the North. Southeast and South-south regions of Nigeria are also home to the largest Christian population in Nigeria, followed by the Southwest and the old Middle Belt Region in Northern Nigeria. The Southwest Christians are further boosted by estimated 6m Christians dominated by Christian citizens of Igbo extraction largely found in Lagos.

In the Northeast, indigenous Christians are found in large numbers in Taraba State (about 60%), Adamawa (about 40%), Borno (about 40%), Gombe (sizeable) and Yobe and Bauchi (fraction). They are generally boosted by resident Christians dominated by Christians of Igbo extraction. Totality of these was the case as at 2009 and still substantially the case today particularly in Taraba and Gombe States. That is to say that Borno and Adamawa States are the hardest hit in the raging or ongoing anti Christian persecution or killing of Christians and burning or destruction of their churches.

Before the 1961 plebiscite, the old Gongola (now Adamawa and Taraba States of Nigeria) was part of the Republic of Cameroon with moderate religious practices including substantial Christian population. In Borno State, the area formerly Kanem-Bornu (Kanuri) Empire, is one of the oldest moderate Islamic settlements in now Northern Nigeria and was then (8th-11th century AD) under the Duguwa Dynasty that lastedfrom 700AD to 1086AD. The area specifically embraced moderate Islamism around AD1090s when its King (Sef Mai Umme) became a Muslim and changed his name to Ibn ‘Abd al-Jalil.  That was about 458 years after the death of Prophet Muhammed in 632AD.

The area later found itself under Kanem-Bornu Empire formed in 1380AD. It also embraced Islamic civilization early enough. Noted also is the fact that the area now called ‘Borno and Adamawa regions’ were the only areas in Northern Nigeria that withstood and resisted the Fulani Jihadist incursion in early 1800s. Christian missionaries went to the areas in 1800s and 1900s and established Christianity, which led many to embrace Christianity. Today, Christians and Christianity religion in the areas (Borno and Adamawa) are almost uprooted by terrorist activities of Boko Haram and Fulani jihadists.

By the account of Dr. Bitrus Pogu, the Adamawa State’s senior member of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN: translated as Church of the Brethren in Nigeria: 

”In many communities in Northeast Nigeria, the killers (Fulani and Boko Haram jihadists) take over ancestral lands and communities that for generations belonged to Christians. The majority of Christian-dominated areas in southern Borno have been taken over by terrorists.  In the area, only southeastern Damboa  (presently) has large Christian settlements…

Many of them [Christians living there] have been killed. The remnant who attempted to go to their farms were shot and killed, so the place is empty now. The area of Askira Uba, where Christians were dominant has all been deserted. In Gwoza, you will hardly find one Christian in all the settlements. Any Christian who goes home would see what had happened there and run away.

“The Cameroon refugee camp alone has more than 90,000 persons from Gwoza who are dominantly Christians. Many of them have moved out to Abuja and other cities. The villages are deserted; they have left even local government headquarters. A place like Chibok is predominantly Christian but people have left the villages around Chibok town as a result of series of attacks. Where Rev. Andimi hails from is about six kilometres from where the last settlement is. …. there is nobody living there, apart from those who settled along the main road. Askia Uba is the last area north where Christians are. In Adamawa State, there is Madagali, where you have Gulak. Right south you find Christians, but north there are no people. The terrorists are approaching Adamawa proper, because Adamawa and Borno intersect from Uba…”

Boko Haram, Fulani Herdsmen & ‘Bandits’: Three Names With One Mission

At non state actor level, there are two major armed Islamic jihadist groups terrorizing Nigeria and its defenseless citizens particularly members of the Christian faith. They are the Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen and the Boko Haram jihadists. The international offshoot of Boko Haram is called Islamic State in West Africa or ISWAP.

Boko Haram was formed in 2002 as a ragtag violent group protesting local inequality, socio-economic downturn and failed political leadership in Borno. It was later hijacked and radicalized religiously by some Northern radical political and security actors. The terrorist Fulani Herdsmen, on their part, are the armed terrorist and Islamic jihadist department of Fulani Herdsmen in Nigeria, the country’s primitive cattle herders. The terrorist and jihadist department of Herdsmen were created and funded and are still funded by same extremist Northern politicians and security chiefs and made devastatingly active immediately after the return to civil rule in late May 1999.

The now fourth world’s deadliest terror group was formed and funded using the cover of existing Fulani rural cattle grazing in Nigeria. Initially formed and funded to wrestle the country’s seat of presidency power from the South targeted at making same ungovernable, the mission of the terror group and its sponsors later changed to jihadist Islamism in 2015.

The change in its mission also followed the emergence of Mr. Muhammadu Buhari, a known Fulani (Daji) and member of conservative Muslim faith, as the sixth civilian president of Nigeria in late May 2015. Mr. Buhari and his name, till date, is the life patron of the mother body of the association of Nigeria’s cattle herders, called ‘the Miyatti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria’ or MACBAN.

According to Comrade Steven Kefas, a fiery Southern Kaduna rights activist, ‘what is called “Bandits” or “Ansaru” or “northern kidnappers” or “cattle rustlers” is nothing but a product of Government ‘labeling’. These groups are just ‘cells’ or ‘departments of Boko Haram’ charged with responsibility of raising funds for its jihadist and terror activities through various forms of roadway and street criminality including kidnapping-for-ransom, armed robbery and house-to-house raiding and looting’.

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There is much more. Read it all at the link below.

[highspiritbag]

14 Of The Safest Countries in Africa

A lot of people assume that the continent of Africa is unsafe. This has mainly been caused by false and bias portrayal by the media. When the average person hears of Africa, they automatically think of the worst, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We have been to many countries in Africa and each country has its own unique gift and vibe and we have never had our lives in danger at any moment. We have even extended our stays in some of these countries because we were simply having too much fun. We believe that every single place on Earth should be visited at least once and it would be unfair to miss out on experiencing the beautiful continent of Africa. 

In recent years, Africa’s profile has been steadily rising due to the big media push surrounding Ghana’s Year of Return. This has put Africa on people’s radar as another destination to explore. For many, visiting anywhere in Africa will be a first-time experience so we decided to write a full list of the 20 safest countries in Africa. This list will highlight the places to see, what to expect and places to stay if you are a tourist visiting for the first time.

1. Rwanda

Rwanda is by far the safest country in Africa. The vibe of the country is very relaxed. If you want to travel solo to an African country. You have to start by visiting Rwanda. The crime rate is so low. According to the Gallup Global Law and Order Report, Rwanda is ranked as the 11th safest country in the entire World since 2017. In addition to this, the people are so warm and welcoming.

The place to visit in Rwanda is the city of Kigali. The city is very beautiful and a great display of African modernity. While you are in the city, we suggest you should visit the Genocide Memorial, the Inema Arts center, the Grand Presidential Palace, and many more. You will get a strong sense of the countri’s past, present, and future.

The nightlife in Kigali is unforgettable, there are many bars and clubs playing live music. There is always an event every night. For a night to remember, visit Iriba Bar, Pili Pili, K Club. The atmosphere, the drinks, the music, and the food will make you want to visit Rwanda every year. 

In terms of where to stay in Kigali. Definitely stay Kigali Serena Hotel. There are also some beautiful boutique hotels you can stay in such as the Heaven Boutique Hotel.

If you love to shop. You should visit the Kigali Cultural Village. There are so many stalls selling everything from clothing to art to food. The atmosphere is truly an unforgettable experience. I’m sure you will find something that catches our eye that will be the perfect gift for yourself or someone else.

One tip to note is that on the final Saturday of every month is Umuganda. It is basically a day of nationwide community service. So everyone does their part for the community by cleaning the streets and helping out with other general stuff. During this time a lot of places are closed or have limited opening hours. So be aware of this day when you are booking your flight and hotel. 

2. Botswana

Botswana has amazing political stability. As a result of this stability, it has led to a very low crime rate in the country.

One of the most exciting things about this country is the Wildlife. You will be immersed in the natural world so quickly. It feels like you are in another World. Kalahari Desert and many other areas offer epic views that have you photographic every single moment of your trip. There are other parts such as Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park.

There is so much diversity in terrain. If you enjoy outdoor activities a trip to Botswana is much needed as there is a wide range of outdoor activities, you can get involved in. One of the things you have to experience is the Moremi safari so you can have an opportunity to see the Big 5 which are the rhino, elephant, lion, leopard, and buffalo.

Botswana is one of the friendliest and safest African countries and I am sure you will enjoy it thoroughly.

3. Mauritius

The beaches in Mauritius are absolutely beautiful. It is very safe and is known to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the World. There is also plenty of opportunities to see different varieties of wildlife. There are also opportunities to go hiking. The terrain of the country is made of mountains and dunes. It’s perfect if you like to be at one with nature while going on a hike.

In terms of where to, we recommend you stay in Balaclava. When it comes to which accommodation to choose, the best places to stay in Mauritius is Maradive Resort and Spa, Degrees Sud, The St Regis Mauritius Resort. Mauritius has many instagrammable boutique hotels that will make any guest feel like they are the King or Queen of The World.

When it comes to partying, the best place to party is in Grand Baie. There are so many cool beach parties with world-class DJ’s to enjoy. There are also many beach bars, sports bars, and clubs to choose from to ensure you have an epic night every night.

4. Seychelles

 Seychelles is absolutely stunning. It is located off the east coast of Kenya. It is made up of over 115 islands. Seychelles is mostly pretty safe. Most people that go and visit actually experience no problems. However, you still should remain very vigilant and don’t create opportunities to attract petty thieves. Just in case, it is advised to carry your High Spirit Anti-Theft Backpack to prevent any pickpockets from taking your most valuable items.

 Seychelles has a wide range of accommodations to suit any taste. The best places to stay in Seychelles are Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue.

These places are very tourist-friendly and have many bars and clubs so you can fully experience the Seychelles nightlife without holding back.

 In terms of getting around, you can island hop by using the island’s reliable ferries.

5. Ethiopia

 Ethiopia is extremely safe. Violent and Non-violent crimes are very rare. However, you have to still be vigilant of petty crime or pickpockets. It is important to have your anti-theft bag or High Spirit Bag with you to ensure your stuff is safe and secure while you travel.

 In terms of accommodation, hotels in Addis Ababa are really cheap. One of the places to stay in is Biruk Bed and Breakfast in Bole, which is an upscale neighborhood in the city. Also, you can consider staying in The Sheraton Addis. It’s a huge luxury hotel and will give you the experience of living like a celebrity for the entirety of your trip.

When it comes to the nightlife in Addis. It is second to none. All the best clubs and bars are in Belo or in Piazza. Due to the proximity, it makes it a little easier to bar hop and get a full taste of the Ethiopian nightlife.

6. Zambia

 Zambia is generally very safe. As with anywhere in the World, it is still important to still be vigilant especially in large cities.

 Lusaka is the capital of Zambia and there are loads of bars and clubs to get your boogie on. There are a few places we would like to recommend that will enable you to have an unforgettable night. We suggest you visit the Alpha Bar. There is always something exciting happening there. It is definitely worth checking out. Lusaka is a buzzing city, so we are sure that you will find some cool bars and clubs to have a good time.

 In Zambia, it is best to stay in a hotel that gives you easy access to different places in the city. Hotels like the Neelkanth Sarovar Premier and The Hilton Garden Inn are great suggestions for places to stay in Lusaka, Zambia. Their service and location are fantastic elements to ensure you have a wonderful time in Zambia.

7. Ghana

 Ghana is currently number 44 on the Global Peace Index. This is a huge indicator of how safe the country is and how modern and forward-looking the country is.

I remember being in Accra, which is the capital city of Ghana walking at night and it felt so safe. I didn’t feel unsafe for one second. Everyone is focused on their own thing and really welcoming and friendly.

 If it is your first-ever trip to Africa. We would suggest you visit Ghana first to get an experience of how great African cities and societies function. They say that Ghana is Africa for beginners. Once you have visited Ghana it will set the precedent of what you can expect when you visit other countries in Africa.

 For a number of years, the country has had great political stability and it is currently going through a transformation where it is opening itself more to the World. Which is a very exciting opportunity for the country and its people. As mentioned before, one of the things I loved about Ghana was how friendly and peaceful the people were.

 In terms of the nightlife. It is absolutely epic. There are so many bars, clubs, and restaurants in Accra, especially on Oxford Street in the Osu area. The vibe of the city feels positive, energetic and you feel very safe and secure.

 Places to stay are in Osu, Oxford Street, or East Legon. These are great locations as you will be in the center of the action and buzz in the city. Also, there is easy access to upscale bars, restaurants, and nightclubs to sink your teeth into.

8. Swaziland

 Swaziland is very safe. Swaziland actually has a low population. It currently only has over 1 million people in the country. The people are very friendly and welcoming.

 In terms of where to stay, you can stay at the Summerfield Botanical Garden or Mountain Inn. These are places where you will be embraced by the natural beauty of Swaziland.

 The nightlife is mainly in Ezulwini and Mbabane. There is live music, bars, restaurants. There are many places that give you the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere, culture, and the positive vibes of the country. 

9. Senegal

 Senegal is politically stable. As with anywhere in the World crime is usually a petty crime, which is mostly made up of pickpocketing. It is still important to take the necessary precautions and carry your anti-theft backpack with you, so you do not become an easy victim. But according to our experience, crimes against tourists are very rare.

 Senegalese are very positive and welcoming people. They are also very keen to share their culture with you. They treat people, especially tourists with respect, and are willing to go over and beyond to ensure you have a positive experience in their country.

 As you visit Senegal. We suggest you stay in the capital, Dakar. In the city, there is so much to do and you will get a full offering of the country’s vibrant culture and its people.

 In terms of places to stay. We would suggest staying in the Radisson Blue hotel. It is absolutely beautiful. The décor of the hotel is truly amazing and inspiring. It’s got an infinity pool, which gives you a beautiful view of the ocean. The rooms are state of the art and very modern. If you decide to stay there, you will definitely have a splendid time. If you want to stay in a boutique hotel. There are plenty of gorgeous boutique hotels that offer an elegant and vibrant experience. Boutique hotels such as The Djoloff Hotel and The La Residence Dakar are great choices for a unique and beautiful experience.

 The Senegalese love to party. The nightlife in Dakar is absolutely brilliant. There are so many bars to choose from. There is literally a bar or a club to suit every taste. If you decide to go on a night out in Dakar, check out Le Phare des Mamelles. The view in that bar is outstanding. Also, check out Le Patio. There is nothing more to say except that you will definitely have a night to remember there! 

10. The Gambia

 The Gambia is the smallest country on the African continent. It’s nickname is ‘The Smiling Coast of Africa.’ It is a very fitting nickname as The Gambia is actually one of the safest countries on the African continent. For tourists (travelling in groups or solo travellers) it is totally safe to travel around and it is trouble free. However, it is still important to take the necessary precautions because The Gambia does have a small issue with pickpockets. But if you remain aware of your surroundings or wear your anti-theft backpack in crowded areas you will be fine.

 In terms of where to stay. We would suggest you stay anywhere on the Senegambia strip as there are a lot of hotels, bars and restaurants. It is pretty busy, so we are sure you will be able to find some cool places to be entertained and get your groove on. We suggest staying at the Woodpecker resort or the Ocean Bay Hotel and Resort. A lot of the hotels in Banjul are pretty nice, so definitely find one that will give you then best deal.

 When it comes to the nightlife in The Gambia. A lot of the nightlife is mostly concentrated in Serrekunda, in the resort town of Kaloli. There are also plenty of wonderful bars and clubs in the township of Kotu to chack out as well.

 11. Malawi

 Malawi is a landlocked country. It is bordered by Zambia, Mozambique, and Tanzania. It is nicknamed as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa.’ It is very safe and is very popular amongst solo travellers. According to its history. It has never had a civil war. Which is very rare in the continent of Africa. In comparison to the region and its neighbouring countries, the crime rate is very low. According to the World Economic Forum Malawi is said to be one of the safest countries in Africa. However, as I keep mentioning. It is still important to take the necessary precautions to protect your belongings, just in case. There is nowhere on the planet that has no crime of pickpockets. So, it’s crucial to still be aware wherever you are in the World. 

If you are thinking of where to stay in Malawi. If you are staying in the capital city of Lilongwe. We suggest you stay at Latitude 13 degrees. The hotel is simply gorgeous. If you want to experience beachside luxury during your trip, definitely check out Kaya Mawa. It Is located on Likoma Island.

When it comes to nightlife, it has little bars and clubs that will satisfy the typical party animal. But it is very modest. However, there is an abundance of dancing displays and live music events that will be provided by the hotel or nearby bars in the area. 

12. Uganda

 Uganda is a very safe, secure, and politically stable country. According to the Government, there has been an increase in police on the streets. This has proved to be very effective as it has caused crime to be reduced by over 50% especially in the city of Kampala. The efforts in increasing police response and ensuring there is no civil unrest has solidified Uganda as a safe haven for group tourists and solo travellers from around the World.

 When it comes to choosing accommodation for your trip. Kampala has a wide range of luxury hotels and stylish boutiques to choose from. One luxury hotel that made a positive lasting impression on us was the Kampala Serena Hotel. The rooms are so beautiful and elegant. It has restaurants in the hotel that serve the most delicious meals. Definitely try some Ugandan cuisine and also try some authentic Ugandan coffee. It tastes like heaven. That is the best way I can describe it. There are other hotels such as the Kabira Country Club that also provide you with a luxurious African experience during your stay.

 Kampala’s nightlife is very well known amongst other African’s living in the continent. It is known that people from all over Africa travel to Uganda to experience Kampala’s wonderful nightlife. The clubs actually don’t close at 3 am, they are open till the next morning. Speaking from personal experience, the only times I have ever partied from night until in the morning (like 10 am in the morning) has been in Africa. African’s definitely know how to party. Especially Ugandans. If you are looking for some cool spots in Kampala to let your hair down. Definitely visit Hollywood in Kampala, also check out Guvnor. There are so many little bars and clubs where you can easily club hop and make your night one to remember

 13. Madagascar

 Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the World. Madagascar is a truly unique and beautiful island. The overall crime rate in the country is low so it is considered safe to travel to. If you are the type of traveller that likes an adventure Madagascar is the perfect destination. It has the World’s most unique biodiversity. During your visit, you will definitely see some rare plants and animals. In addition, the people are so friendly and kind. A trip to Madagascar will be a life-changing trip.

If you are looking for a place to stay in Madagascar. We suggest you stay in the North-Eastern part of the island, such as Nosy Boraha. Hotels such as Les Lemuriens and Samaria Lodge are great choices to have a unique and pleasant stay in Madagascar.

 When it comes to the nightlife. You should check out Taxi Be and Le point d'exclamation. They are both in the capital of Antananarivo. There are also loads of bars and clubs you can enjoy. There are also a lot of great spots for live music if you want a more immersive experience.

 14. South Africa

South Africa overall is very safe to travel to and explore. The country has so much natural beauty. There are many big cities within South Africa such as Johannesburg, Capetown, Durban, and many others that offer something different and special. There are some bits of petty crime such as pickpockets but as long as you have your anti-theft backpack with you and you keep your belongings close you will be fine. No country on Earth Is perfect and to expect perfection in a country is totally unrealistic. Another thing to be aware of is that tourist hotspots are controlled and protected by the authorities, so you will feel safe and secure during your trip.

South Africa is a very large country. It is the 9th biggest country in Africa. So when it comes to choosing a place to stay you will be spoiled for choice. If you are staying in Capetown, you may want to consider staying in the Atlantic View Capetown Boutique Hotel or Raddison Blu Waterfront. If you are staying in Johannesburg, you may want to consider staying at the Munro Boutique Hotel or Villa Simmone Hotel. If you are staying in Durban, you may want to consider staying at the Hilton Durban. Ensure you stay at a hotel with great customer service and great security. That is super important.

 South Africa has so much variety when it comes to the nightlife. There are so many clubs and bars in Capetown. In Capetown, there is an area called Long street, which has a lot of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Johannesburg has Rosebank and Durban has a lot of jazz clubs. There is something for everybody in these cities.

 Visiting Africa will be a unique experience. It will be like nothing you have experienced before. So, when you travel to any of the African countries, remember to immerse yourself in the culture, the vibe, and the activities. It will definitely make a positive impact on your life.

[selenocysteine]

Radio Ozodi

Radio Ozodi is a trusted source of local news, attracting outsized audiences with compelling reporting on issues not otherwise covered by Tajikistan’s state-run media.

Fast Facts

RFE/RL’s Tajik Service, operating out of its Dushanbe bureau, is the only Tajik-language media consistently challenging the state’s tightly controlled press and propaganda with high-impact reporting on the most popular digital platforms about local politics and economics, societal issues, and human rights.

According to a Media Preferability survey conducted by national media monitors Media-Consult and Zerkalo, Ozodi.org is the number one news website in Tajikistan.

Its local reporting on religious freedom, Islamic State recruiting, law enforcement, family reunification, and women’s and minority rights is relied on by international agencies and monitoring groups, and has been commended by the International Red Cross, The UN Committee on Women’s Rights, and the US Commission on International Religious Freedom.

Its local network inside the country affords it unique reporting opportunities, including coverage of the fatal attack against foreign cyclists in 2018 that was quoted by the BBC, NPR, ABC, Fox News, Russian channel 1, the Guardian, The New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, and other major international media.

Radio Ozodi is a critical source of local language news for Tajik labor migrants in Russia – over 1 million -- who rely on it for information about their native country that is uncensored by Tajik-state media, and for news that is independent of the Russian press.

Radio Ozodi’s website and Facebook pages have been blocked by authorities in response to reporting deemed to be undesirable, including coverage of Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2015, radicalism and extremist recruiting, official corruption, and the country’s leaders. Users in Tajikistan must access ozodi.org through proxies.

In 2018, The Institute for War and Peace Reporting recognized correspondent Sarvinoz Ruhulloh for reporting on the problems of women and children, and Orzu Karim for coverage of extremism and terrorism.

In press freedom rankings, Tajikistan is designated Not Free by Freedom House and ranked 186/198. Authorities control most of the country’s broadcasting facilities and internet service providers, practice selective accreditation of journalists, and actively intimidate journalists.

Facts & Stats about Tajikistan

Population: 8.92 million (World Bank estimate, 2017)

Most Common Languages: Tajik, Russian, Uzbek

Press Freedom Index (Freedom House): Not Free, 87th out of 100 (2017)

Press Freedom Index (RSF): 161 out of 180 (2019)

Corruption Index (Transparency Int.): 152 out of 180 (2018)

Global Peace Index (IES): 114 out of 163 (2018)

Human Rights Watch: Report on Tajikistan (2019)

Amnesty International: Tajikistan Report (2017/2018)

(read more: https://pressroom.rferl.org/rferl-tajik-service-radio-ozodi)

[newstfionline]

Headlines

The American Dream has headed north (CNN) Individuals born into poorer families have a better chance of owning a home, getting a good education and experiencing a better life than their parents if they are born in Canada than if they are born in the United States. In other words, Canadians have a better shot at the American Dream than Americans do. That’s according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Social Mobility Index, which ranks 82 countries on their citizens’ ability to fulfill their potential regardless of their socio-economic background.

Trump touts U.S. economy, dismisses climate ‘prophets of doom’ (Reuters) U.S. President Donald Trump touted the success of the U.S. economy in Davos on Tuesday, dismissing “perennial prophets of doom” on climate change to an audience that included Greta Thunberg.

Pro-gun rally by thousands in Virginia ends peacefully (AP) Tens of thousands of gun-rights activists from around the country rallied peacefully at the Virginia Capitol on Monday to protest plans by the state’s Democratic leadership to pass gun-control legislation--a move that has become a key flash point in the national debate over gun violence. The size of the crowd and the expected participation of white supremacists and fringe militia groups raised fears that the state could see a repeat of the violence that exploded in 2017 in Charlottesville. But the rally concluded uneventfully around noon, and the mood was largely festive, with rally-goers chanting “USA!” and waving signs denouncing Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam.

Murders in Mexico hit record as Lopez Obrador seeks justice system reform (Reuters) Mexico suffered its worst year for homicides in 2019, with a record 34,582 victims, official data showed on Monday, underscoring the challenge President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador faces while waging war on drug cartels. Lopez Obrador assumed the presidency in December 2018 pledging to pacify the country with a less confrontational approach to security, but violence has continued rising, with the number of homicide victims 2.5% higher in 2019 than a year earlier, according to the security ministry data.

Norway’s government (Foreign Policy) Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg’s ruling coalition fell apart on Monday, after a right-wing party withdrew in response to a controversial decision to repatriate a suspected member of the Islamic State and her children from Syria so that one could receive urgent medical treatment. The political crisis could have ramifications for other European governments already wary of repatriating ex-ISIS fighters.

Seven still missing after Himalayan avalanche (Foreign Policy) Seven hikers and guides are still missing in Nepal after an avalanche hit a trail around Annapurna, the world’s 10th highest mountain, last Friday. Officials have already rescued 200 people, but the search for the missing was called off on Monday amid worsening weather conditions. Last year, Nepal faced a deadly climbing season on Mount Everest, leading to criticism that it had issued too many permits.

Bangladesh says island is ready for refugees (Foreign Policy) Last year, Bangladesh announced plans to move thousands of Myanmar’s Rohingya refugees from camps in Cox’s Bazar to an island in the Bay of Bengal, Bhasan Char. Now the government says that the island, which floods regularly during monsoon season, is ready to welcome around 100,000 people--with newly built houses, hospitals, mosques, and flood protection. (Foreign media have not been allowed to visit the island.)

Hong Kong on High Alert to Tackle Coronavirus Outbreak (Reuters) Hong Kong’s government is on high alert to deal with a new flu-like coronavirus that has killed nine people in mainland China, the city’s commerce secretary, Edward Yau, said on Wednesday.

Thai officials resume peace dialogue with main southern insurgents (Reuters) A senior Thai official met an envoy of the main insurgent group fighting in the country’s largely Muslim south in what both sides described as a positive step toward a peace process, the Thai government said on Tuesday.

Australia’s bush fires take their toll (Foreign Policy) As fire conditions in Australia are expected to worsen again this week, the government announced Monday that it would increase emergency funding for small businesses affected by the country’s blazes. The cost of the fires means the government may not deliver on a promised budget surplus. Australia’s tourism and insurance industries have already reported they are likely to take a hit.

Lebanon forms government with backing of Hezbollah and allies (Reuters) Lebanon formed a new government on Tuesday under Prime Minister Hassan Diab after the Shi’ite group Hezbollah and its allies agreed on a cabinet that must urgently address the economic crisis and ensuing protests that toppled its predecessor.

Saudi-Led Coalition Resumes Airstrikes Near Yemeni Capital (AP) The Saudi-led military coalition fighting in Yemen stepped up its bombing campaign Tuesday, launching airstrikes near the rebel-held capital in clashes that killed at least 35 people, Yemeni security officials said.

Militants Kill 36 People in Northern Burkina Faso (AP) Militants attacked a market in Burkina Faso’s Sanmatenga province, killing at least 36 people and wounding several others, the government said Tuesday.

[stocknewspaper-blog]

"China upset about 'negative' Taiwan content in U.S. defense bill" has been added to my site. Please visit for details. http://www.stocknewspaper.com/china-upset-about-negative-taiwan-content-in-u-s-defense-bill/

[its-me-canada-blog]

HOW IS CANADA TODAY?

Canada is the world’s second-largest country by surface but relatively small in terms of population. Is one of world’s top trading nations, and one of its richest.

Image source: https://www.plant.ca/insights/171911/ 

Economy:

Canada is the 10th largest economy in the world and the 8th freest economy. It closely resembles the U.S. in its market-oriented economic system, patterns of production, and high living standards. Also, Canada is the third in the world in proved oil reserves behind Venezuela and Saudi Arabia, being United States the main importer of this oil, and about three-quarters of Canada’s exports go there, so the successful 2018 renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement was crucial.

Image: Thelinknewspaper.ca @ 2017

Social:

Canada is famous for its free Healthcare system, although there is no pharmacare policy. The country has very permissive Abortion laws, where a woman can interrupt the pregnancy at any stage, even the final weeks. The legal drinking age is 18 years old in some provinces (Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec) and 19 years old in the rest of the provinces and territories. Marijuana was legalized in 2018 but there are laws dictating when, where and how marijuana can be bought, sold and used, and can be prescribed for medical reasons too. Gun ownership is allowed but carrying them is illegal. 

Canada has laws that prevent discrimination against race, gender, religion or sexual orientation, and protects those discriminated in their jobs and social environment. Since 1969, most legal bans on sodomy were lifted and in 2005 same-sex marriage was legalized. Also, gender dysmorphia is a legitimate medical condition so the cost of sex reassignment surgery is covered. There are a variety of pension and welfare programs to assist the less fortunate.

Image: Government of Canada (Source: TheTyee.ca@2016)

Politics:

Canada’s style of government is based on the British system, with the national government run as a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. Also, Canada is divided into 13 provinces and territories with their own head of government called Premier.

Most Canadians can identify the Prime Minister and the Premier of their own province, and the vast majority of adults Canadians participate in politics by voting in elections. Canada has a “two party-plus” system which means that the country is usually dominated by two large parties (left wing: The Liberal Party of Canada, right wing: The Conservative Party of Canada) and a third one either on the further-left or further-right.

Image: Justin Trudeau (Source Kalinga-TV@2019)

Today, Justin Trudeau is the Prime Minister and he is the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada since April 14, 2013.

Sources of information: https://www.indexmundi.com/canada/economy_overview.html https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/economy https://www.heritage.org/index/country/canada http://www.thecanadaguide.com/culture/social-issues/ http://www.thecanadaguide.com/government/ http://www.thecanadaguide.com/government/political-parties/

WHAT IS LIKE LIVING IN CANADA?

Canada enjoys a positive global reputation as one of the world’s safest, most comfortable countries, with citizens who enjoy generally contented lives free from substantial hardship. Canada is the 6th most peaceful country in the world (According to the Global Peace Index, 2018) with low crime and homicides rates.

Canadians are generally healthy people, their life expectancy is 80 years for men and 84 years for women. This is accompanied by the fact that Canadians have free health care system.

Despite this, Canada is not a perfect country. Canadians of both genders are declared legally equal under the law but women are always less likely to work than men, and continue to be over represented in stereotypically female professions, such as teaching, nursing and waitressing, and because of this, discussion about pay gap are common.

Regarding work life, the balance between work hours and leisure is in an ill position compared with other countries, with long working hours. 

Sources:  http://visionofhumanity.org/indexes/global-peace-index/ http://www.thecanadaguide.com/basics/quality-life-canada/ http://www.thecanadaguide.com/culture/religion/ http://www.oecdbetterlifeindex.org/countries/canada/

Image: Tent in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (source)

Image: Luxurious Mansion in Vancouver (source)

ARE PEOPLE POOR OR RICH IN CANADA?

Canadians enjoy a high standard of living, and that this has been true for the entire postwar period. But Canada has generally high levels of economic inequality, with the gap between Canada’s rich and poor having steadily increased since the 1990s. 

The richest fifth of the Canadian population hold close to 50% of the entire wealth of all Canadian families. On the other hand, 1 in 7 people in Canada live in poverty. So Canada is a wealthy country but only for the top percentiles of the population.

Sources: http://www.thecanadaguide.com/basics/quality-life-canada/ https://www.opencanada.org/features/inequality-explained-hidden-gaps-canadas-education-system/ http://www.cwp-csp.ca/poverty/just-the-facts/

ARE THERE MANY DIFFERENT ETHNIC GROUPS LIVING IN CANADA?

Canada is a multicultural country. Most people living in Canada self-identify as “Canadian”. However, Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, and responses to ethnic origin surveys are incredibly diverse. According to the 2016 census form, there were acknowledged multiples groups of origin.

Ethnic groups above the one million mark: Canadians (32,3%), English (18,3%), Scottish (13,9%), French (13,6%), Irish (13,4%), German (9,6%), Chinese (5,1%) Italian (4,6%), First Nations (4,4%), Indian (4%), Ukrainian (4%), Dutch (3,2%), Polish (3,2%). The are also at least 21 other ethnic groups in Canada that have between 200,000 and 1,000,00 habitants. 

It is important to mention the Indigenous Peoples in Canada, who are also referred to as Aboriginal peoples. They formed complex social, political, economic and cultural systems before Europeans came to North America. There are three recognized Aboriginal groups in Canada:

- Métis: Métis are people of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, and one of the three recognized Aboriginal peoples in Canada.  While the Canadian government politically marginalized the Métis after 1885, they have since been recognized as an Aboriginal people with rights enshrined in the Constitution of Canada and more clearly defined in a series of Supreme Court of Canada decisions.

- Inuit: Inuit — Inuktitut for “the people” — are an Indigenous people, the majority of whom inhabit the northern regions of Canada. An Inuit person is known as an Inuk. The Inuit homeland is known as Inuit Nunangat, which refers to the land, water and ice contained in the Arctic region.  

- First Nations: Is a term used to describe Aboriginal peoples in Canada who are not Métis or Inuit. First Nations people are often known by other names like Indians, Natives, Native Canadians, Native Americans, American Indians and Amerindians. There are 634 First Nations communities in Canada, speaking more than 50 distinct languages.

Video: “Walking in Downtown Vancouver BC Canada. City Life on Granville Street - Youtube”

Sources: https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/metis https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/inuit https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/first-nations

[catherinemcmn772-blog]

Politics of Turkey

     While the Republic of Turkey was only founded less than 100 years ago, on October 29th, 1923, Turkish history stems back more than 4,000 years.  The first Turks lived in Central Asia around 2,000 B.C.; some later left and established various empires within varying parts of Asia and Europe.  Some of these ancient empires include: The Great Hun Empire, established in 3rd century B.C., the Gokturk Empire that ranged from 552-740 B.C., the Avar Empire  from 6th-9th century A.D., The Great Seljuk Empire from 1040-1157 A.D., and many, many more.  The Ottoman Empire was the last great ruling empire prior to the inception of the true Turkish state.  The Ottoman age stemmed from 1299 - 1923, ruling over many areas in Asia, Europe, and Africa until the fall of the empire at the end of World War I.  At the height of the Ottoman Empire, they had stake in what is now: Greece, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Albania, Romania in the Balkans, all of the islands in the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Middle East.  The empire’s borders extended from Crimea in the North to Yemen and Sudan in the South, from Iran and the Caspian Sea in the East, Vienna in the Northwest, and Spain in the Southwest.  The Republic of Turkey in its current state is in both Europe and Asia, with the portion of the Turkish state in Europe being comparable to the size of the state of Massachusetts and the portion of the Turkish state in Asia being comparable to the size of the state of Texas.

     As the 16th century progressed, the Ottoman Empire gradually lost its economic and military superiority compared to Europe; Europe began to develop rapidly during the Renaissance period, causing the balance of power to shift more towards the European states.  However, it was the nationalist movements of the 19th century, as well as the self-determination movements and rebellions of the Balkan nations that truly brought the Ottoman Empire crumbling down.  It did not help the Ottoman Empire’s case that these movements and rebellions were backed by European nations  as well as Russia.  The Empire was officially defeated during World War I in 1918 and then forced into signing the Mondros Armistice on October 30th, 1918.  The Mondros Armistice allowed the former empire to be occupied by Britain, France, Russia, and Greece.

     It was not long before efforts to create a new state began, with the Turkish National Liberation War beginning in 1919 and ending in 1922.  The war for liberation was led by Mustafa Kemal, an Ottoman military commander who had worked to mobilize Anatolia for national independence.  Kemal was successful and on July 24th, 1923 the Lausanne Peace Treaty was signed with Great Britain, France, Greece, Italy, and several others as a means of recognizing the creation of the international borders of the Turkish State, a well as guaranteeing the state's freedom.  This Ottoman military commander, Mustafa Kemal, was elected the first president of the Republic of Turkey, with his legacy still shining on to this day.  Kemal was president of Turkey for 15 years until his death in 1938, eventually being given the last name ‘Ataturk”, meaning, ‘father of the Turks’.

     Ataturk worked hard to establish legal, political, and social reforms for the Turkish State.  Ataturk secularized the Turkish state and assumed control of religious affairs.  The First Grand National Assembly led by Ataturk created “a new political and legal system based on the principles of parliamentary democracy, human rights, national sovereignty and division of powers, private ownership and secularism, and the separation of religion and state affairs,” (Turkish Cultural Foundation, 2019).  In 1926, Ataturk revised the Law of Obligations as well as the Civil, Criminal, and Commercial codes to fall more in line with Western values.  Under Ataturk’s leadership Turkish woman were also granted equal rights in regards to men, putting Turkey ahead of many Western nations in terms of women’s rights.  Leadership under Ataturk contrasted sharply with the prior government of the Ottoman Empire, which had primarily been a theocratic state with religion as a huge focus and major part of the government.  In his 15 years as president, Ataturk was able to greatly improve, develop, and reform the Turkish state, causing him to still be viewed admirably in modern times.

     Following Ataturk’s leadership, the Turkish state was very adamant in upholding the principles of Kemalism, including having a secularist state.  This was tough for those who had been firm believers in the Ottoman system, with rural areas being far less prone to accepting secular principles.  The rise of Political Islam began in Turkey and the Middle East in the late 1960s and took off from there.  Turkish politics dating back specifically to 1973, has provided a strong and fertile ground for many parties to operate on a populist platform.  The Turkish military was to ensure that the principles of Kemalism were protected and upheld at all costs, with the military having to intervene in the government if religion was inserted into their secularist state.  In 2001, the Justice and Development party, also known as the AK or the AKP, won the most seats in the Turkish elections; this ushered in a state of Islamist rule for the Republic of Turkey.  Earlier forms of the AKP had been banned by the Turkish military due to too strong of waves of Islamism.  The AKP however garnered heavy support in part due to their attention to Islamic issues and democratic reform, as well as due to a rise in the business middle-class, helped along by the states current president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

     Erdogan and the AKP party were able to gather much support in their first several years as the economy quickly grew.  Erdogan helped rural areas move from “relative poverty and provincialism to relative wealth and sophistication”, causing his political following to grow further.  The percentage of those living below the poverty line fell to single digits, and the percentage of those considered part of the middle class doubled to just over 40%.  Erdogan was careful in his introduction of Islamist beliefs into the Turkish government, moving slowly, beginning by approaching subjects such as advocating for Women to have the right to wear the hijab in public buildings and schools.  

     While many were happy with Erdogan’s leadership, tensions began to rise between the secularists and Islamists.  The Turkish military worked to uphold Kemalism, intervening in 2008 as a means to end the AKP, with no success.  Fueled by the actions of the military, Erdogan worked to increase his influence and power over the military so they would have a more difficult time going against him and his party.  While Erdogan was elected in a democratic manner and led that way initially, after gaining more support and positive influence, his leadership has begun to switch to more authoritarian in principle.  In the summer of 2013 protests began to break out as citizens felt growing irritation in regards to Erdogan and the AKP’s leadership; citizens felt frustration towards the AKP’s disregard of the environment, the mistreatment of ethnic minorities, and the continued push towards full authoritarian control of the state.  In true populist fashion, Erdogan and other AKP politicians refused to legitimize the concerns of citizens, and brushed them aside stating that “...Turkey has progressed to such an extent under the rule that protestors cannot possibly have legitimate reasons for wreaking havoc; therefore, they should be considered traitors engaged in an evil plot to hinder Turkey’s progress and disrupt the country’s political and economic stability’ (Kocamener, 2015: 6)”.

     The 2018 Democracy Index has given Turkey a score of 4.37 out of 10, causing the Turkish state to have a global rank of 110 out of the 167 listed countries.  Regionally, in Western Europe, Turkey is ranked at 21, leaving the country in last place.  The 2018 Democracy Index also lists Turkey’s government as being a hybrid regime.  Hybrid regimes are described as having substantial irregularities within their elections, with these irregularities preventing elections from being free and fair; this has been seen over the last several years as Erdogan and the state place censors in the media on the political opposition.  After an attempted coup in July of 2016, a state of emergency was imposed in Turkey, in which it remained throughout the rest of the year.  Following the coup, nine parliamentarians from the Peoples’ Democracy Party, HDP, spent the remainder of 2016 in jail.  In addition, sixty elected mayors from the Democratic Regions Party also remained in prison.  The Democratic Regions Party is considered to be the sister party to the HDP, both groups being predominantly Kurdish.  These individuals were replaced by unelected officials to serve while they were in jail, however, these unelected officials remained in office throughout the rest of 2017; because of this, one-third of Turkey’s entire population was not being represented by those that they had elected into office.  As the Turkish economy begins to plummet, the fate of the nation comes into question...will Erdogan be able to maintain his reign?  Or will the turmoil push him out of office?  Only time will be able to tell.

[adigitalworldstudent-blog]

Social Mapping; bringing people together in times of crisis

I first learnt about social mapping while studying professional communication. The unit discussed the different types of mediums that can be used when sending out messages to mass audiences. We talked about crowdsourcing, the act of engaging a ‘crowd’ toward a common goal, often towards solving a problem. We learnt about the Queensland floods and the Queensland Police Services use of social media to get information about the floods out to the public as quickly as possible. Within just eight weeks Queensland Police Services Facebook page had risen to 100 000 likes and generated 450 post views per second over the 24-hour period (Cenere et al. 2015). 

Turning to social media during times of crisis proves to be a useful tool in distributing important information quickly and effectively, not only in the case of the Queensland floods but many others. With the increasing use of mobile technology, internet connectivity, and social networking, information technology is playing a crucial and developing role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of disaster response settings (Global Disaster Preparedness Center 2017). The internet allows people to know where you are and navigate their way around by developing crisis mapping through the Geoweb by gathering real-time information during conflict and disaster settings.

Crisis mapping was launched by Patrick Meier in 2008, as a form of disaster response known as Ushahidi. “Ushahidi—or ‘testimony’ in Swahili—has played a central role in coordinating responses to crises around the globe.” (Hyman 2014, p. 27). Meier’s map used satellite imagery and SMS to create in response shared area-based information about open safe houses, pharmacies, medical clinics and markets and was utilized by the U.S. military to save injured residents and deliver services (Dillon 2019).

In times of crisis, information is essential to effective and efficient disaster response that enable planning, response and readiness for crisis management. Chief Craig Fugate of The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sent out a tweet about the Ushahidi map saying

“ it was the most comprehensive and up-to-date map available to the humanitarian community" (Hyman 2014, p. 27).

Social media has brought new ways for people to reach each other and offer support during times of crisis that was not available until now. This innovative technology-based approach conveys significant changes to the traditional data chain utilise in emergencies by blending authoritative and non-authoritative data (Goodchild 2009, p. 23).

“In times of crisis, innovative means are becoming available for facilitating and improving the flow of information among communities when and where they need it most” (Swinburne 2019).

References

Cenere et al. 2015, Communication skills for business professionals, Cambridge University Press, Port Melbourne.

Crowdsourcing Week 2019, What is Crowdsourcing?, Crowdsourcing Week, viewed 21 January 2019, <https://crowdsourcingweek.com/what-is-crowdsourcing/>.

Dillon, H 2019, Crisis Mapping: An Overview of Social Media Mapping Response to Disaster, PA TIMES Online, viewed 2 January 2019, <https://patimes.org/crisis-mapping-overview-social-media-mapping-response-disaster/>.

‘Flooding Facebook’ [IMAGE], in Research Gate, The use of social media during the Queensland and Victorian floods, viewed 21 January 2019, <https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Growth-of-the-Queensland-Police-Service-Facebook-page-likes-from-May-2010-to-February_fig1_263810598>.

Ford, H 2012, 'Crowd Wisdom', Index on Censorship, vol. 41, no. 4, pp. 33-39.

Geothink 2012, Explorations in Geoweb – What is geoweb?, Geothink, viewed 21 January 2019, <http://geothink.ca/explorations-in-geoweb-what-is-geoweb/>.

Global Disaster Preparedness Center 2017, Crisis Mapping, viewed 21 January 2019, <https://www.preparecenter.org/topics/crisis-mapping>.

Hyman, P 2014, ‘Peace technologies' enable eyewitness reporting when disasters strike’, Communications of the ACM, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 27-29, viewed 21 January 2019, <http://web.a.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.lib.swin.edu.au/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=1&sid=7451ef49-d009-4420-b4af-ebc148c839c0%40sessionmgr4007>.

Swinburne Online 2019, ‘8.3 Social Mapping’ MDA20009 Digital Communities, Learning Materials in Online Classroom, Swinburne University of Technology, viewed January 21, <https://swinburneonline.instructure.com/courses/704/pages/8-dot-3-social-mapping?module_item_id=60094>

[einereiseblog]

Wir teilen die interessantesten Fakten über Mauritius, die wir auf unserer einmonatigen Reise durch das atemberaubende Land gesammelt haben Nach Reisen auf die Malediven, Fidschi und Französisch-Polynesien fragten wir uns, ob Mauritius dem etablierten Standard gerecht werden würde. Die in Broschüren verbreitete Vision ist natürlich von großen blauen Lagunen und puderweißen Stränden, aber im Gegensatz zu den oben genannten Orten besteht Mauritius aus einer Hauptinsel und nicht aus einem großen Streifen, der über den Ozean verstreut ist. Wäre wahre Abgeschiedenheit schwer zu finden? Die Hauptstadt des Landes, Port Louis, ist lebhaft und geschäftig wie Hauptstädte, während die Resorts der Insel erwartungsgemäß voll von sonnenhungrigen Touristen sind. Wagen Sie sich jedoch weiter zum Gipfel von Le Morne oder Le Pouce oder gehen Sie in Blue Bay tauchen und Sie werden diese schwer fassbare Abgeschiedenheit finden. Wir verbrachten einen Monat mit Wandern, Tauchen und Entspannen und verliebten uns in das Land und seine Kultur. Hier sind die interessantesten Fakten über Mauritius, die wir unterwegs gesammelt haben. Interessante Fakten über Mauritius Mauritius ist eine Vulkaninsel, die vor acht Millionen Jahren zum ersten Mal aus den Wellen aufstieg. (Quelle: BBC) Atlas & Boots Das vulkanische Mauritius ist acht Millionen Jahre alt Mauritius war bereits im 10. Jahrhundert arabischen und malaiischen Seeleuten bekannt, wurde erstmals im 16. Jahrhundert von den Portugiesen erkundet und anschließend im 17., 18. und 19. Jahrhundert von den Holländern, Franzosen und Briten besiedelt. 1968 erlangte es schließlich seine Unabhängigkeit. (Quelle: CIA World Factbook) Mauritius ist eines von wenigen Ländern, die nach einer Person benannt sind. Es wurde im 17. Jahrhundert von den Niederländern zu Ehren von Prinz Maurits van Nassau benannt. (Quelle: Wikipedia) Das Land umfasst die Inseln Mauritius, Rodrigues und die äußeren Inseln Cargados Carajos Shoals und Agalega Islands. Mauritius beansprucht auch die Souveränität über das Chagos-Archipel 2.000 km (1.250 Meilen) im Nordosten, aber dies wird von Großbritannien bestritten. (Quelle: Britannica) Mauritius ist fast vollständig von Korallenriffen umgeben. Es gibt 177 km (110 Meilen) Küste, ein Großteil davon mit weißen Sandstränden bedeckt. (Quelle: CIA World Factbook) Im Jahr 2017 wurde Mauritius als eines von nur vier Ländern der Welt genannt, das nicht in laufende internationale oder innerstaatliche Konflikte verwickelt war und keine Spannungen mit Nachbarländern hatte. Die anderen waren Botswana, Chile und Uruguay. (Quelle: S.13, Global Peace Index 2017) Das Obige könnte erklären, warum Mauritius kein stehendes Heer unterhält. (Quelle: CIA World Factbook) Mauritius war der einzige bekannte Lebensraum des Dodos. Niederländische Seefahrer begegneten dem flugunfähigen Vogel wahrscheinlich erstmals im Jahr 1598. Innerhalb von 100 Jahren hatten Schiffsratten und andere eingeführte Tiere die Art ausgerottet. Die letzten bestätigten Sichtungen waren in den 1660er Jahren. (Quelle: BBC) Traumzeit Mauritius war der einzige bekannte Lebensraum des heute ausgestorbenen Dodos Der Dodo ist im Staatswappen des Landes prominent vertreten und liefert eine der ergreifenderen interessanten Fakten über Mauritius. (Quelle: Republik Mauritius) Es wird gesagt, dass der Autor Lewis Carroll zu seinem berühmten Buch Alice im Wunderland teilweise durch einen ausgestopften Dodo im Museum of Natural History der Universität Oxford inspiriert wurde. (Quelle: BBC) Im 18. und frühen 19. Jahrhundert diente der Berg Le Morne Brabant als Zufluchtsort für entflohene Sklaven, die in den Höhlen auf dem Gipfel Siedlungen gründeten. Geschützt durch die bewaldeten Klippen des Berges lebten die Sklaven jahrelang auf dem Berg. (Quelle: UNESCO) Atlas & Boots Entflohene Sklaven nutzten Le Morne Brabant als Zufluchtsort Die Sklaverei wurde 1835 auf Mauritius abgeschafft. Zwischen 1834 und 1920 holten britische

Pflanzer fast eine halbe Million Zwangsarbeiter aus Indien, um auf den Zuckerrohrfeldern zu arbeiten. (Quelle: UNESCO) Zwei Drittel der Bevölkerung auf Mauritius sind indisch-pakistanischen Ursprungs, von denen die meisten Nachkommen von Vertragsarbeitern sind. Ein Viertel der Bevölkerung ist kreolisch (gemischt französischer und afrikanischer Abstammung), und es gibt eine kleine Anzahl von Menschen chinesischer und französisch-mauritischer Abstammung. (Quelle: Britannica) Das ist keine Amtssprache auf Mauritius, obwohl Englisch und Französisch die „Landessprachen“ sind. Die überwiegende Mehrheit der Bevölkerung (85,6 %) spricht Kreolisch, eine in Frankreich ansässige Dialektsprache. (Quelle: CIA World Factbook) Mauritius ist das einzige afrikanische Land mit einer hinduistischen Mehrheit (48,5 % der Bevölkerung). Religionsfreiheit ist ein verfassungsmäßiges Recht und das Land ist die Heimat einer großen Zahl von Katholiken (26,3 % der Bevölkerung) und Muslimen (17,3 %). (Quelle: CIA World Factbook) Atlas & Boots Trou aux Biches wurde zum besten Strandziel der Welt gewählt Mit einer Wohnbevölkerung von etwa 1.263.000 hat Mauritius die höchste Bevölkerungsdichte in Afrika und eine der höchsten der Welt. (Quelle: United Nations World Population Prospects) Die Lebenserwartung auf Mauritius – 70 Jahre für Männer und 75 Jahre für Frauen – ist höher als der Weltdurchschnitt und liegt weit über dem Durchschnitt der afrikanischen Länder. (Quelle: Britannica) Mauritius hat zwei UNESCO-Welterbestätten: Aapravasi Ghat, ein Komplex, der die Überreste der ersten Gebäude darstellt, die von Zwangsarbeitern aus Indien errichtet wurden, und das bereits erwähnte Le Morne Brabant. (Quelle: UNESCO) Trou aux Biches auf Mauritius wurde 2011 zum weltbesten Strandziel gekürt. Das Land wird häufig zum weltbesten Flitterwochenziel gewählt. (Quelle: World Travel Awards) Eine unserer interessantesten Fakten über Mauritius ist, dass es die Heimat eines spektakulären Unterwasser-„Wasserfalls“ ist. Aus der Luft sieht es aus wie eine atemberaubende Schlucht, die Meter von der Halbinsel entfernt aufbricht. Leider ist das Phänomen nur eine optische Täuschung, die durch das Abfließen von Sand und Schlick verursacht wird. (Quelle: Kuoni) Der furchteinflößende Unterwasser-„Wasserfall“ auf Mauritius Berichten zufolge soll Mark Twain gesagt haben: „Sie kommen auf die Idee, dass Mauritius zuerst gemacht wurde und dann der Himmel, und dass der Himmel nach Mauritius kopiert wurde.“ (Quelle: The Writings of Mark Twain) Lonely Planet Mauritius, Réunion & Seychellen ist ein umfassender Reiseführer für Mauritius, ideal für diejenigen, die sowohl die wichtigsten Sehenswürdigkeiten erkunden als auch die weniger befahrene Straße nehmen möchten. Leitbild: Dreamstime .

[aurianneor]

War and Peace at the UN

In 1961, Secretary General Dag Hammarskjöld’s plane, which wanted to establish a UN right of interference in Katanga (Congo), crashed. The square in front of the General Secretariat in New York still bears his name.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jan/12/former-raf-pilot-shot-down-un-chief-dag-hammarskjold-1961-plane

http://www.un.org/depts/dhl/dag/time1960.htm

The project to establish a right of interference falls through. This means that the UN cannot intervene when a conflict occurs within a country. It can only intervene when one country declares war on another. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paix#Paix_international_international

The UN is therefore not intervening, or too late, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Yugoslavia, Rwanda, Chechnya or Syria. https://www.monde-diplomatique.fr/mav/49/VIDAL/55555

In cases such as Haiti or East Timor, the UN intervenes when it is an internal conflict. This is because there is no commercial interest that puts pressure on the presidents of the USA, France, Russia, China and the United Kingdom. This is important because they are the ones who are part of the security council. https://www.cairn.info/revue-pouvoirs-2004-2-page-111.htm

Bernard Kouchner relaunches the idea of the UN’s right of interference. He has not enough support and the idea falls through again. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernard_Kouchner#Devoir_d'ing%C3%A9rence

Several conflicts erupt without the UN intervening or, on the contrary, making the situation worse. This makes the institution less credible. Horrible massacres such as in Sebrenica or Aleppo are taking place. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/srebrenica-20-years-after-the-genocide-the-dutch-peacekeepers-still-haunted-by-memories-of-the-10378913.html

https://www.lemonde.fr/idees/article/2018/03/30/la-tragedie-syrienne-sera-t-elle-le-tombeau-des-nations-unies_5278740_3232.html

So why do I still have confidence and why do I have my hopes for the UN?

Since the creation of the UN, the risk of dying from violent aggression has collapsed. The number of countries that have declared war to another has also fallen. The number of injured, maimed and dead is much lower in internal conflicts than in conflicts between countries. It is a fact that peace has progressed thanks to the UN: https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/battle-related-deaths-in-state-based-conflicts-since-1946-by-world-region The very idea of the duty of interference is gradually gaining ground in the face of state sovereignty. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Souverainet%C3%A9#Les_limites_%C3%A0_la_souverainet%C3%A9_issues_of_intergovernmental_organizations But the UN does much more for peace, helping people to live better. The results on child labour, slavery and women’s rights are staggering. No one can deny the effectiveness of WHO, which has been directly involved in the eradication of certain diseases. Who could criticize UNICEF? https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/various-measures-of-child-labour-incidence https://www.gapminder.org/data/documentation/legal-slavery/ https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/women-married-by-age-18?tab=chart https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/life-expectancy-globally-since-1770 https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/decade-in-which-smallpox-ceased-to-be-endemic-by-country https://mobile.twitter.com/melindagates/status/981236431770157057 The introduction of indicators has served as a lever for States to face up to their real actions, and not those of their propaganda. The UN is effective. The UN is still in its infancy. Some are frustrated because they do not intervene in internal conflicts; let us mobilize to ask for interference! Let us also ask the institution to measure the progress of democracy through a popular initiative referendum indicator (e.g. how many there have been, results respected): https://sdg-tracker.org The current UN Secretary General is a man of courage who fought against the Salazar dictatorship in Portugal. He will surely listen to the requests made to him. With popular support, it will be easier for him to convince the powerful ones: http://inthesetimes.com/article/19820/united-nations-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-refugees-multiculturalism Giving priority to peace also means making better use of public money by freeing the institutions from lobbies which press for their commercial interests, before peace is established: https://foreignpolicy.com/2018/09/24/peacekeeping-cant-be-done-on-the-cheap-united-nations-secretary-general-antonio-guterres

http://www.climatechangenews.com/2018/09/10/secretary-general-throw-entire-un-fight-suicidal-emissions

It is very important for the UN to have people who support them. We are not the only ones. More and more groups around the world are pushing to help bring about this popular referendum project in the face of the increasingly autocratic trend of “liberal democracies”. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is concerned about these issues.

V-DEM is a department of the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. It officially provides indicators and statistics for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 16 (related to peace, justice and strong institutions).

The V-DEM Annual Report 2017: https://www.v-dem.net/media/filer_public/91/14/9114ff4a-357e-4296-911a-6bb57bcc6827/v-dem_annualreport2017.pdf

The UN has already collaborated in 2015 with the V-DEM cabinet to consider the measurement of the referendum on popular initiative. V-DEM provided statistics for the SDG in 2015 in a very technical report: https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/43561144.pdf

This index measures:

(1) the ease with which each type of popular vote can be initiated and approved, and

(2) the importance of this vote (if approved).

The ease of initiation is measured by:

(a) the existence of a process of direct democracy,

(b) the number of signatures required; and

© the time limits for collecting signatures.

The ease of approval is measured by the quorums relating to domain names in :

(a) participation,

(b) approval,

© the supermajority, and

(d) a majority of the district.

With regard to the importance of the vote, it examines its decisive nature (whether the decision is binding or not) and the threatening capacity of direct democracy mechanisms at the initiative of citizens, measured by the frequency with which direct popular votes have been used and approved in the past. Finally, the study tests the validity of the new measure, discussing its strengths and limitations.

The next revision of the indicators of SDG 16 (Peaceful and inclusive societies) will be in July 2019 with the opportunity to include the direct democracy indicator. If the project does not pass, the next chance to ask for a referendum on a citizens’ initiative at the UN will be in 2030.

https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/hlpf/2018

Petition to the UN in accordance with the sustainable development objective n°16 “peace, justice and strong institutions” (https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/fr/ …), for the Popular Initiative Referendum: sign here: http://chng.it/TXCknMhm and forward it to your friends.

Is the world getting better or worse? A look at the numbers | StevenPinker |TEDTalks | https://youtu.be/yCm9Ng0bbEQ   How We Can Make the World a Better Place by 2030 | MichaelGreen | TEDTalks: https://t.co/BnGtJVraZx United Nations General Assembly Resolution 377: https://youtu.be/AkTTpreLvNg

联合国的战争与和平: https://tmblr.co/ZprwNe2fXt8n2

Война и мир в ООН: https://tmblr.co/ZprwNe2fY02kx

Guerre et Paix à l'ONU:  https://tmblr.co/ZprwNe2fWTBUA

L’ONU interdit à la France l’usage des grenades et lanceurs de balles car cette violence d’Etat dissuade les gens de manifester pacifiquement. Rights of ‘gilets jaunes’ protesters in France, ‘disproportionately curtailed’, say UN independent experts | UN News https://news.un.org/en/story/2019/02/1032741

Si vous avez la chance d’être protégé par votre statut ou votre pays, vous avez le devoir de vous servir: http://chng.it/DHtc8HMV

Main tendue: https://aurianneor.tumblr.com/post/181769674190/main-tendue-appel-à-la-poursuite-de-la-lutte

Les rouges et les jaunes: https://aurianneor.tumblr.com/post/181545667825/les-rouges-et-les-jaunes-foulards-rouges-contre

Le levier économique: https://aurianneor.tumblr.com/post/181291168120/le-levier-économique-charles-stewart-parnell

Successful protesters: https://aurianneor.tumblr.com/post/181195356610/successful-protesters-lets-have-a-quick-look-back

Je veux briller:https://aurianneor.tumblr.com/post/181712917330/mes-hormones-veulent-de-ladmiration-je-veux

[stephenphotom]

🔺Women's rights in Iran - Photo : © Stephen photographer _ During the late 20th and early 21st centuries in Iran, women's rights have been severely restricted, compared with those in most developed nations. The World Economic Forum's 2017 Global Gender Gap Report ranked Iran 140, out of 144 countries, for gender parity. In 2017, in Iran, females comprised just 19% of the paid workforce, with seven percent growth since 1990. In 2017, the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Index ranked Iran in the bottom tercile of 153 countries. Compared to other South Asian regions, women in Iran have a better access to financial accounts, education, and cellphones. Iran was ranked 116, out of the 153 countries, in terms of legal discrimination against women. _ #زنان_ایران #زن #حجاب_زن #حجاب_اجبارى #حجاب_بی_حجاب #حجاب_شیک #چادر #دختران_خیابان_انقلاب #دختر #دخترایرانی #ایراناینترنشنال #ایران_رو_پس_میگیریم #ایران_فروشی_نیست #خیابان_انقلاب #حقوق_زنان_در_ایران #حقوق_مدنی #حقوق_شهروندی #womenfreedom #womeniniran #girls #hijabstyle #hijablove #freedom (at Tehran, Iran) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgcYBzMN7Te/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=