The Gambia’s Ministry of Energy recently convened a stakeholder forum that seeks the removal of customs and taxes on energy-saving technologies, such as saving lighting fixture and hybrid cars, in a bid to reduce or limit Green House Gas (GHG) emissions.
The forum discussed the National Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMAs) and actions that should be taken at the policy level to help in mitigating the risk of climate change.
The NAMAs are voluntary country engagement proposals of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which are a set of government prioritised actions aimed at reducing or limiting greenhouse gas emissions.
The forum brought together stakeholders from various ministries and departments of the Gambia government, who are funding the project in conjunction with the African Development Bank (AfDB).
According to Bubu Pateh Jallow, national consultant of the project, the concept of NAMA emerged during the preparation of the Bali action plan as part of the Bali roadmap agreed upon at the United Nations climate change conference in Berlin in December 2007.
“The Bali action plan recognises the need for developing countries to fully participate in the efforts at achieving global emission reduction goals,” said Mr Jallow, who described the plan as a step in the right direction.
Mr Jallow told MarketPlace that it was when the AfDB realised that developing countries are not making enough submissions of NAMAs to the UNFCCC that it came with a proposal suggesting ways to support Regional Member Countries (RMCs) in developing and implementing the NAMAs.
The forum observed that at the policy level, actions should be considered on increasing Natural and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (NLP & LPG) supply and distribution, as well as on increasing their share in the national energy system.
The consultant observed that there is the need to “develop a low-carbon growth plan and low-carbon strategy, in particular through the use of renewable energy investments and global cooperation”.
On renewable energy consumption, Mr Jallow said policies should be marshalled to offer subsidies for electricity generation from renewable energy resources such as wind, solar photovoltaic (PV), biogas and biomass, establishing tax exemptions to incentivise investment in the sector.
He also calls for the promotion of production and use of biofuels as transport fuel.
Experts at the forum also discussed the establishment of a national plan for the integrated management of urban solid waste for the construction of sanitary landfills and landfill gas capture, as well as the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from burning of waste through composting.
Monday, 31 October 2011
Wednesday, 26 October 2011
GREENTECH LEADS THE WAY TO THE USE OF BIOFUEL BRIQUETTES
Green Tech environmental solutions will on Tuesday November 2nd launch GreenTech’s briquette and fuel-efficient stove aimed at reducing cooking costs, emissions and the exploitation of the forest. The event will take place at the Green Mamba Garden restaurant, Senegambia.
Managing our forest is a general responsibility
Green Tech is a newly established company in The Gambia, dedicated to provide sustainable environmental solution to households, industries and institutions.
Since July 2010, GreenTech produces high quality fuel briquettes from groundnut shells and promotes fuel-efficient stoves for cooking and heating purposes in households, restaurants and industries.
FUEL BRIQUETTES Also termed ember briquettes
As the combine briquette/stove unit needs less fuel input than common cooking units, it helps reduce cooking costs, emission and the exploitation of forest materials.
The event will avail attendees the opportunity to see how briquettes are produced and use in fuel-efficient stoves. A heavy-duty machine, producing 800kg/h, presses the briquettes, while local welder men produce the stoves with recycled metal.
Green Tech is a newly established company in The Gambia, dedicated to provide sustainable environmental solution to households, industries and institutions.
Since July 2010, GreenTech produces high quality fuel briquettes from groundnut shells and promotes fuel-efficient stoves for cooking and heating purposes in households, restaurants and industries.
As the combine briquette/stove unit needs less fuel input than common cooking units, it helps reduce cooking costs, emission and the exploitation of forest materials.
The event will avail attendees the opportunity to see how briquettes are produced and use in fuel-efficient stoves. A heavy-duty machine, producing 800kg/h, presses the briquettes, while local welder men produce the stoves with recycled metal.
Monday, 24 October 2011
GAMCOTRAP MAKES MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH IN THE CRUSADE AGAINTS FGM, EARLY MARRIAGE
The Gambia Committee on Harmful Traditional Practices (GAMCOTRAP) has once again strengthened its belt for the long-standing battle against female genital mutilation, early marriage and women’s right.
GAMCOTRAP – the women’s right group -- was able to reach about three hundred youths in a three-day sensitisation campaign that started on last Friday. The programme was centred in three areas in the Greater Banjul Area: its head office at Kanifing, Wellingara Cinema hall, and the Sukuta hospital.
Speaking at the event, Dr Isatou Touray said, “GAMCOTRAP is committed to the promotion and protection of women and girl children’s political, social, educational and sexual reproduction and health rights.”
Dr Isatou Touray, Executive Director, GAMCOTRAP
According to her, why her institution targets the youth cohort, is because they are the custodians of the future. “Youth are very important in development, because they are the future leaders of every country,” she said, adding that her NGO is committed to creating and raising the awareness of girl children and women about traditional issues that affect their wellbeing.
The scheme, in which GAMCOTRAP engaged this youth, is sponsored by the UN Trust fund for women and Save the Children Sweden. The only multilateral grant-making mechanism exclusively devoted to supporting local and national efforts to end violence against women and girls, the UN Trust Fund works with partners across the world to secure much-needed services for women and girls affected by violence. Through its partners, the Fund also invests in long-term solutions for a world free of violence.
Dr Touray urged that in order to free Gambia off the scourge of traditional practices, the right information must be provided to the youth who constitute about 60% of our population. She said women in our geographical context have languished many years in abject poverty and practicing harmful traditional practices, because of ignorance and misinformation of the text of the holy books by so-called scholars – who claimed FGM, is obligatory in Islam.
She informed reporters that the work of GAMCOTRAP is having impacts in the country, as people’s attitude towards the practice is also changing. “Somebody called me this morning and informed me of a scenario, where someone leaves Senegal and comes to Basse to get his child circumcise.
As soon as the women we engaged over the past years heard about this news, they stood firm that the woman will not perform this act in their village. Therefore, you can see how people’s mindsets are changing. They [the youth] need to be informed of the effects attached to the practice, so that they can use their conscience and act wisely,” Dr Isatou said.
She pointed that by few years ahead; there is a possibility that the Gambia will be declared an FGM free state, citing the availability of the possible wherewithal to boost the campaign. “We are confident that by 2020 Gambia will be free from female genital mutilation, if the possible resources are available in our disposal,” she added.
LINKING FGM TO DEVELOPMENT
The development of a nation cannot be sustainable if the health situation of the women folk remain a risk. The unaccounted deaths as a result of FGM is a cause for alarm, as research papers have indicated that Gambia is among the countries that are rated high in maternal mortality.
For Dr Touray, some of these deaths could have been avoided, if only the right information and knowledge have been marshalled.
In this context, development could not be possible without creating a possible socio-environment for women, she noted. She challenged that it is high time those in the echelon of power pay heed to the women’s bill, which is still hanging in the balance.
She underscored GAMCOTRAP’s commitment to sensitise and lobby decision and policymakers about socio-cultural practices that are harmful to the health of girl-children and women.
GAMCOTRAP – the women’s right group -- was able to reach about three hundred youths in a three-day sensitisation campaign that started on last Friday. The programme was centred in three areas in the Greater Banjul Area: its head office at Kanifing, Wellingara Cinema hall, and the Sukuta hospital.
Speaking at the event, Dr Isatou Touray said, “GAMCOTRAP is committed to the promotion and protection of women and girl children’s political, social, educational and sexual reproduction and health rights.”
According to her, why her institution targets the youth cohort, is because they are the custodians of the future. “Youth are very important in development, because they are the future leaders of every country,” she said, adding that her NGO is committed to creating and raising the awareness of girl children and women about traditional issues that affect their wellbeing.
The scheme, in which GAMCOTRAP engaged this youth, is sponsored by the UN Trust fund for women and Save the Children Sweden. The only multilateral grant-making mechanism exclusively devoted to supporting local and national efforts to end violence against women and girls, the UN Trust Fund works with partners across the world to secure much-needed services for women and girls affected by violence. Through its partners, the Fund also invests in long-term solutions for a world free of violence.
Dr Touray urged that in order to free Gambia off the scourge of traditional practices, the right information must be provided to the youth who constitute about 60% of our population. She said women in our geographical context have languished many years in abject poverty and practicing harmful traditional practices, because of ignorance and misinformation of the text of the holy books by so-called scholars – who claimed FGM, is obligatory in Islam.
She informed reporters that the work of GAMCOTRAP is having impacts in the country, as people’s attitude towards the practice is also changing. “Somebody called me this morning and informed me of a scenario, where someone leaves Senegal and comes to Basse to get his child circumcise.
As soon as the women we engaged over the past years heard about this news, they stood firm that the woman will not perform this act in their village. Therefore, you can see how people’s mindsets are changing. They [the youth] need to be informed of the effects attached to the practice, so that they can use their conscience and act wisely,” Dr Isatou said.
She pointed that by few years ahead; there is a possibility that the Gambia will be declared an FGM free state, citing the availability of the possible wherewithal to boost the campaign. “We are confident that by 2020 Gambia will be free from female genital mutilation, if the possible resources are available in our disposal,” she added.
LINKING FGM TO DEVELOPMENT
The development of a nation cannot be sustainable if the health situation of the women folk remain a risk. The unaccounted deaths as a result of FGM is a cause for alarm, as research papers have indicated that Gambia is among the countries that are rated high in maternal mortality.
For Dr Touray, some of these deaths could have been avoided, if only the right information and knowledge have been marshalled.
In this context, development could not be possible without creating a possible socio-environment for women, she noted. She challenged that it is high time those in the echelon of power pay heed to the women’s bill, which is still hanging in the balance.
She underscored GAMCOTRAP’s commitment to sensitise and lobby decision and policymakers about socio-cultural practices that are harmful to the health of girl-children and women.
SHE DESERVES CARE!! – THE MENTALLY CHALLENGED
THIS ARTICLE IS WRITTEN BY OMAR DIBBA, A RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN WHO SAW THE NEED TO CATER FOR THE MENTALLY ILLED - ESPECIALLY WOMEN; FOR THEIR DIGNITY
Omar Dibba, the Author
Pedestrians, commuters and residence of the Kanifing Municipality are witness to the unspoken plight of a woman; who, on a daily basis walks unconsciously naked on the Tallinding/Churchill town road and no support is provide as at now.
First, she is human and deserves genuine attention and recognition of her right to care and protection (rights are not for the ‘sane’ only). It is quite touching and sad to see this woman lying under the sweltering sun everyday; while people who see themselves as sane and civilize pass her every day without making efforts to change her life and preserve her dignity. She deserves care.
Where is our humanity? Where is the moral justice, the love and care that we profess? What do we tell our children (that we are a people who care more for ourselves and less for others). She would have changed her situation if she could…but she can’t. That is the difference. She deserves care.
Second, she is a woman, who has suffered enough to go through such humiliation in life.
Her leg was broken at one point, and now her dignity is shattered and society is not responding to restore it for her. Who will mend it? I ask Gambia.
She would have certainly put on decent clothing and move around town like all other women…but she cannot at this point in time, because she is disabled. Who will enable her now and safe womanhood? She deserves care.
The difference between us and her would just be a thin line if we fail in our responsibility. If we assume to be sane, we should not fail in utilizing our faculty to help a person who is incapable.
Nothing will change in her life if we neglect. But we may choose to neglect her as if nothing is happening, but this will only indicate our lost of wisdom which would be insanity. She deserves care.
Our children must see us taking care of one and other, even if they appear to be different by virtue of their conditions. I can’t imagine how comfortable Gambians can watch a woman with her nakedness on the street and everyone ignores. Our children will also learn not to care for others because the society they grew up has lost its sense of support and care. God (Allah) will judge us for what we do or fail to do.
I am sure this woman dislikes her current condition, but can she change that condition for better on her own right now? Where are the stakeholders responsible? What are they doing for her and for many like her? From public to private establishments, to the community and the family, and individuals, do not neglect your child, do not throw away a woman, a mother, a sister, a niece and above all a human being. She deserves care.
I wish to call on the Ministry of Women’s affairs, the Women’s Bureau, The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare – department of social welfare, the Ministry of Interior and other departments and offices – Tanka Tanka and NGOs, to come forward and support the woman, give her treatment (medical or spiritual whatever) and let her situation be changed. She and many like her are Gambians who have a right under the law to be cared for. She deserves care.
It will not be human and it can never be accepted for society and stakeholders to allow the streets to watch her nakedness and her bodily dignity and integrity to be lost.
Let our conscience judge.
Pedestrians, commuters and residence of the Kanifing Municipality are witness to the unspoken plight of a woman; who, on a daily basis walks unconsciously naked on the Tallinding/Churchill town road and no support is provide as at now.
First, she is human and deserves genuine attention and recognition of her right to care and protection (rights are not for the ‘sane’ only). It is quite touching and sad to see this woman lying under the sweltering sun everyday; while people who see themselves as sane and civilize pass her every day without making efforts to change her life and preserve her dignity. She deserves care.
Where is our humanity? Where is the moral justice, the love and care that we profess? What do we tell our children (that we are a people who care more for ourselves and less for others). She would have changed her situation if she could…but she can’t. That is the difference. She deserves care.
Second, she is a woman, who has suffered enough to go through such humiliation in life.
Her leg was broken at one point, and now her dignity is shattered and society is not responding to restore it for her. Who will mend it? I ask Gambia.
She would have certainly put on decent clothing and move around town like all other women…but she cannot at this point in time, because she is disabled. Who will enable her now and safe womanhood? She deserves care.
The difference between us and her would just be a thin line if we fail in our responsibility. If we assume to be sane, we should not fail in utilizing our faculty to help a person who is incapable.
Nothing will change in her life if we neglect. But we may choose to neglect her as if nothing is happening, but this will only indicate our lost of wisdom which would be insanity. She deserves care.
Our children must see us taking care of one and other, even if they appear to be different by virtue of their conditions. I can’t imagine how comfortable Gambians can watch a woman with her nakedness on the street and everyone ignores. Our children will also learn not to care for others because the society they grew up has lost its sense of support and care. God (Allah) will judge us for what we do or fail to do.
I am sure this woman dislikes her current condition, but can she change that condition for better on her own right now? Where are the stakeholders responsible? What are they doing for her and for many like her? From public to private establishments, to the community and the family, and individuals, do not neglect your child, do not throw away a woman, a mother, a sister, a niece and above all a human being. She deserves care.
I wish to call on the Ministry of Women’s affairs, the Women’s Bureau, The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare – department of social welfare, the Ministry of Interior and other departments and offices – Tanka Tanka and NGOs, to come forward and support the woman, give her treatment (medical or spiritual whatever) and let her situation be changed. She and many like her are Gambians who have a right under the law to be cared for. She deserves care.
It will not be human and it can never be accepted for society and stakeholders to allow the streets to watch her nakedness and her bodily dignity and integrity to be lost.
Let our conscience judge.
RIGHT GROUPS NARRATE ORDEALS OF MIGRANTS IN WEST, SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA -- CALL FOR MORE SUPPORT FROM THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY
Justice Without Borders for Migrants (JWBM) has convened a meeting in Banjul recently that gave opportunities for human rights groups engaged in the course for migrants rights to voice out their commitments with stakeholders in their defense of fundamental human rights of migrants.
JWBM is a multinational bloc that seeks to combat violations of migrants’ rights linked to deportations through transnational action that combines utilization of legal mechanisms, advocacy, and documentation and reporting of abuses, capacity building, and strengthening collaborations and communication between partners.
Migrants in Libya
However, JWBM project also aims to defense the fundamental human rights of migrants when they are deported, and to develop an advocacy scheme in favor of policy changes in countries that are involved in numerous issues surrounding asymmetrical immigration. Since its inception, the agency has weathered so many storms in West Africa and Africa in general.
Speaking to Gambian journalists at a tete-a-tete meeting, the President of Malian Association of Displaced People who also doubled as the president of JWB said, the importance of having a non-governmental organization advocating for the rights of migrants could not be over-emphasised, saying, his agency is open to all aspiring and committed individuals or agencies.
However, he maintained that even Member States that have ratified the ECOWAS protocols and other international laws that called for the protection of the rights of migrants workers and travelers, have fallen under the net of human right violators. “The human rights violations suffered by deported African migrants were committed in Africa [by Africans],” he adds.
Despite commitments made by Member States of the African Union to promote the respect of the human rights guaranteed by the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights and other international legal instruments on the protection of human rights ratified by these States, a number of African States blatantly violates rights of African migrants who have settled in their respective territories, he said.
Alassan Dicko, also a member of the Malian Association of Displaced People, said his country has witnessed over the past years the plights of migrants trekking to other parts of Africa or Europe to seek for greener pastures. He said most of the human rights violations occurred between the borders of Mali and other countries.
He explained that migrants have also suffered in the borders between Mali and Mauritania; and further attributed the general plight of migrants in Africa to racism, saying, “And the act seriously constitutes the violation of human rights”.
Aboubacry Mbodi and Sadikh Niass respectively, both representative of ‘Recontre Africaine pour la Defense des Driotes de L’Homme (RADDHO)’ – based in Dakar – added their voice to the situations of migrants in Africa.
Alioune TINE -- RADDHO President
For Mr Niass, youth unemployment and lack of paying considerable efforts to development of rural Senegal, has become a factor contributing to migrations to other parts of the world. Whilst he said migration from Senegal is booming, he also highlights that RADDHO has amongst other things, engaged stakeholders in capacity building workshops to sensitise them on their rights.
Francis Ekwere from the Nigerian Bar Association Human Right Institute also expressed sentiments of the predicaments faced by Nigerian migrants in other countries. He stated that about 350 Nigerians have been deported from Libya, and more seriously, these people’s rights were blatantly abused.
The Association Mauritanienne des Droits de l’Homme (AMDH), Groupe antiraciste d'accompagnement et de défense des étrangers et migrants (GADEM), Comisión Española de Ayuda al Refugiado (CEAR), and La Cimade, all are NGOs in the crusade against the discrimination of migrants and deported persons.
JWBM is a multinational bloc that seeks to combat violations of migrants’ rights linked to deportations through transnational action that combines utilization of legal mechanisms, advocacy, and documentation and reporting of abuses, capacity building, and strengthening collaborations and communication between partners.
However, JWBM project also aims to defense the fundamental human rights of migrants when they are deported, and to develop an advocacy scheme in favor of policy changes in countries that are involved in numerous issues surrounding asymmetrical immigration. Since its inception, the agency has weathered so many storms in West Africa and Africa in general.
Speaking to Gambian journalists at a tete-a-tete meeting, the President of Malian Association of Displaced People who also doubled as the president of JWB said, the importance of having a non-governmental organization advocating for the rights of migrants could not be over-emphasised, saying, his agency is open to all aspiring and committed individuals or agencies.
However, he maintained that even Member States that have ratified the ECOWAS protocols and other international laws that called for the protection of the rights of migrants workers and travelers, have fallen under the net of human right violators. “The human rights violations suffered by deported African migrants were committed in Africa [by Africans],” he adds.
Despite commitments made by Member States of the African Union to promote the respect of the human rights guaranteed by the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights and other international legal instruments on the protection of human rights ratified by these States, a number of African States blatantly violates rights of African migrants who have settled in their respective territories, he said.
He explained that migrants have also suffered in the borders between Mali and Mauritania; and further attributed the general plight of migrants in Africa to racism, saying, “And the act seriously constitutes the violation of human rights”.
Aboubacry Mbodi and Sadikh Niass respectively, both representative of ‘Recontre Africaine pour la Defense des Driotes de L’Homme (RADDHO)’ – based in Dakar – added their voice to the situations of migrants in Africa.
For Mr Niass, youth unemployment and lack of paying considerable efforts to development of rural Senegal, has become a factor contributing to migrations to other parts of the world. Whilst he said migration from Senegal is booming, he also highlights that RADDHO has amongst other things, engaged stakeholders in capacity building workshops to sensitise them on their rights.
Francis Ekwere from the Nigerian Bar Association Human Right Institute also expressed sentiments of the predicaments faced by Nigerian migrants in other countries. He stated that about 350 Nigerians have been deported from Libya, and more seriously, these people’s rights were blatantly abused.
The Association Mauritanienne des Droits de l’Homme (AMDH), Groupe antiraciste d'accompagnement et de défense des étrangers et migrants (GADEM), Comisión Española de Ayuda al Refugiado (CEAR), and La Cimade, all are NGOs in the crusade against the discrimination of migrants and deported persons.
GAMBIA TO HOST JUMBO NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT
The Gambia will play host to an international entertainment galore that will garner together international participants come December 17 this year.
The event will bring together internationally celebrated individuals, fashion designers, renowned musicians and television personalities from across the world.
The event, which is organised by ‘Gambia Fashion Night’, will be first of its kind in The Gambia, if not in Africa, a move Mr Joachin Lielesch Producer of Gambia Fashion Night described as a good venture in marketing The Gambia to the outside world.
Mr Lielesch was speaking at a press conference held at the Sheraton hotel, during the course of last week, when he commended the sponsors of the event. He expressed happiness for seeing Comium and Sheraton hotel be at the forefront of sponsoring the event.
However, both those in the fashion designing corridor and the financial institutions respectively played their part in hosting the event, by feeding the kitty at the sponsorship board.
The Gambia Tourism Board and the Association of Tour Operators respectively, both expressed optimism about the success of the event.
The event is expected to be attended by television personalities such as Cecilia Dutsch, a German TV presenter, and a host of other seasoned media personalities from Belgium, UK, and Poland.
The event will bring together internationally celebrated individuals, fashion designers, renowned musicians and television personalities from across the world.
The event, which is organised by ‘Gambia Fashion Night’, will be first of its kind in The Gambia, if not in Africa, a move Mr Joachin Lielesch Producer of Gambia Fashion Night described as a good venture in marketing The Gambia to the outside world.
Mr Lielesch was speaking at a press conference held at the Sheraton hotel, during the course of last week, when he commended the sponsors of the event. He expressed happiness for seeing Comium and Sheraton hotel be at the forefront of sponsoring the event.
However, both those in the fashion designing corridor and the financial institutions respectively played their part in hosting the event, by feeding the kitty at the sponsorship board.
The Gambia Tourism Board and the Association of Tour Operators respectively, both expressed optimism about the success of the event.
The event is expected to be attended by television personalities such as Cecilia Dutsch, a German TV presenter, and a host of other seasoned media personalities from Belgium, UK, and Poland.
Wednesday, 19 October 2011
UPR of Lithuania: progress on gender equality but concerns over prison conditions
On 11th October 2011, Lithuania presented its report on its human rights situation to the UPR Working Group. The delegation of nine was headed by the Minister of Justice of Lithuania, Mr Remigius Simasius who provided most of the comments, with input also from Vice-Minister of Culture, Mr Stanislav Vidtmann.
In his opening statement, Mr Simasius noted a range of stakeholders including the Minister of Health, the Minister of Education and Science, and human rights NGOs contributed to the preparation of the Lithuania report. He particularly highlighted Lithuania’s achievements in human rights, placing them within the context of Lithuania gaining independence in 1990 and its challenges in modernising the legal system and establishing a number of institutions to counter the legacy of the Soviet regime in denying basic rights and freedoms. Mr Simasius drew particular attention to the establishment of three independent ombudsmen to protect human rights, including an Ombudsman for Children’s Rights and an Ombudsman for Equal Opportunities, and the progress made in ensuring gender equality.
In 2008 Provisions on non-discrimination based on gender were added into the Law on Equal Opportunities and according to Mr Simasius women now hold two of the top three administration posts (President, and Seimas [parliament] Spokesperson), and account for 40% of all managerial staff. Mr Simasius also acknowledged the need for improvements in prison conditions, especially modernising prisons and reducing overcrowding.
Mr Simasius regretted that he was not able to answer all questions posed by States. Responding to numerous concerns, Mr Simasius observed that Article 4(1)(14) of the Law on the Protection of Minors Against the Detrimental Effect of Public Information, which prohibits the dissemination of information promoting homosexual, bisexual, or polygamous relations on the grounds of having a ‘detrimental effect on the development of minors’, had been removed in the recently revised version of the law. In response to concerns about discrimination of Roma in Lithuania, Mr Vidtmann (Vice Minister of Culture) noted the complexities of integrating the 2,500 Roma in Lithuania and drew attention to the draft Inter-institutional Action Plan for Roma Integration into the Lithuanian Society currently awaiting approval. Mr Simasius further denied the Russian Federation’s allegation that Lithuania was falsifying history and rejected its recommendation to Lithuania to stop attempts to revise interpretations of the outcomes of the Second World War and its persecutions of anti-fascist veterans.
A secret prison in Lithuana where suspected Alqai'da islamists may have been held.
During the adoption of the report, 43 recommendations out of a total of 120 were accepted by Lithuania, with a further 53 recommendations already considered as being implemented or in the process of being implemented. Only one recommendation was rejected and the remaining 23 recommendations were pending further consideration and would be decided upon prior to the 19th session of the Human Rights Council. Mr Tomas Vaitkevicius, Lithuania’s Vice Minister of Justice, provided the concluding remarks and stipulated that the UPR can only be a meaningful process if it is conducted in a transparent, non-confrontational, and non-politicised manner.
In his opening statement, Mr Simasius noted a range of stakeholders including the Minister of Health, the Minister of Education and Science, and human rights NGOs contributed to the preparation of the Lithuania report. He particularly highlighted Lithuania’s achievements in human rights, placing them within the context of Lithuania gaining independence in 1990 and its challenges in modernising the legal system and establishing a number of institutions to counter the legacy of the Soviet regime in denying basic rights and freedoms. Mr Simasius drew particular attention to the establishment of three independent ombudsmen to protect human rights, including an Ombudsman for Children’s Rights and an Ombudsman for Equal Opportunities, and the progress made in ensuring gender equality.
In 2008 Provisions on non-discrimination based on gender were added into the Law on Equal Opportunities and according to Mr Simasius women now hold two of the top three administration posts (President, and Seimas [parliament] Spokesperson), and account for 40% of all managerial staff. Mr Simasius also acknowledged the need for improvements in prison conditions, especially modernising prisons and reducing overcrowding.
Mr Simasius regretted that he was not able to answer all questions posed by States. Responding to numerous concerns, Mr Simasius observed that Article 4(1)(14) of the Law on the Protection of Minors Against the Detrimental Effect of Public Information, which prohibits the dissemination of information promoting homosexual, bisexual, or polygamous relations on the grounds of having a ‘detrimental effect on the development of minors’, had been removed in the recently revised version of the law. In response to concerns about discrimination of Roma in Lithuania, Mr Vidtmann (Vice Minister of Culture) noted the complexities of integrating the 2,500 Roma in Lithuania and drew attention to the draft Inter-institutional Action Plan for Roma Integration into the Lithuanian Society currently awaiting approval. Mr Simasius further denied the Russian Federation’s allegation that Lithuania was falsifying history and rejected its recommendation to Lithuania to stop attempts to revise interpretations of the outcomes of the Second World War and its persecutions of anti-fascist veterans.
During the adoption of the report, 43 recommendations out of a total of 120 were accepted by Lithuania, with a further 53 recommendations already considered as being implemented or in the process of being implemented. Only one recommendation was rejected and the remaining 23 recommendations were pending further consideration and would be decided upon prior to the 19th session of the Human Rights Council. Mr Tomas Vaitkevicius, Lithuania’s Vice Minister of Justice, provided the concluding remarks and stipulated that the UPR can only be a meaningful process if it is conducted in a transparent, non-confrontational, and non-politicised manner.
Tuesday, 18 October 2011
Ghana Former Vice President Warns African Heads of States
Alh Aliu Mahama, the former vice president of one of Africa’s most respected States, has made his voice heard about the status quo of the African continent, saying, “We cannot harness and utilize our resources effectively when intra Africa trade remains dismally low on the continent.”
The former subordinate to President John Kuffour, who along him, led Ghana’s government from 2001 to 2009, pointed to a consortium of political leaders, security analysts and experts, saying Africa has the potential in both human and natural resources to generate wealth and end the poverty of our people.
His Excellence Aliu Mahama was speaking at a high-level gathering, aimed at recognising African leaders and Statesmen who have taken a giant stride in developing the continent through their expertise, altruistic political position, and selfless service to creating a stable buzzer zone for human lives to blossom, held at the Sheraton hotel, The Gambia.
Alh. Aliu Mahama, former Vice President of Ghana; from January 2001-January 2009
Whilst it is true that we have increasingly become responsive to the needs of our people on the continent, we must continue to be assertive in engaging in the bold decision that enhances regional and continental integration, he cautioned. “At both economic and political levels, we must work towards more integration of our collective efforts.
“I am absolutely convinced that such integration efforts will also enhance and give meaning to compliance with ECOWAS regional political principles and protocols.”
He observed that peace – which is a catalyst to the development of Africa – is very critical to our accustomed discussion that we often garner ourselves to converse about the development of our African continent.
The Ghanaian former vice president said, for Africa to realise part of its dream, it needs a good leadership that will inspire the broader understanding and application of human security with the focus on human life and dignity.
He argued that an egocentric Head of state who is apathetic to the cause of his people, is far beyond the need of the continent; rather the African people hanker for a leader who will free them from intellectual slavery and the nuisance of despotism. “Indeed [we need] the type of transformative leadership that is selfless, but very inspiring to lift and motivate our people and turn around the fortunes of our continent.”
“As Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, I made my contribution while in government and continue to do so at the level of leadership and governance outside government. From my experience over the years, I am deeply convinced that we must continue to work hard to address the leadership question.”
As regards developing the continent, he observed that the most important issues that must continue to capture our attention include enhancing good governance and democratic practice, transparency and the fight against corruption, respect to the rule of law, and creating the enabling environment for private sector led development.
“We, in Africa hold the key to our own security and development and must galvanise the political will to make peace [and development] happen on our continent.
“We have to step up educational strategies to bring home to our leaders that the discourse about security in Africa has moved on to embrace human security. This involves the security of the individual [including food security] with respect to the satisfaction of the basic needs of life,” he explained.
For him, these are not the only mechanisms, rather “It also encompasses the creation of the social, political, economic, military, environmental and cultural conditions necessary for the survival, livelihood, and dignity of the individuals.”
He asked: “How do we build a security architecture or infrastructure from the State level to the Continental level to ensure the practice and application of human security?”
In providing a universal panacea to this question, he maintained that the Continent must make efforts to build capacities to protect the state and citizens.
He advised African governments to take with good fate advises from independent bodies on issues surrounding security and human development.
“Another area that we can consider is, encouraging independent organisations to assess and advise governments on issues relating to peace and security within Africa. Such bodies should also continue to educate the larger population on the causes of insecurity and suggested remedies to overcome these lapses as part of their research,” former Vice President Aliu Mahama who also chaired the gathering, said.
The former subordinate to President John Kuffour, who along him, led Ghana’s government from 2001 to 2009, pointed to a consortium of political leaders, security analysts and experts, saying Africa has the potential in both human and natural resources to generate wealth and end the poverty of our people.
His Excellence Aliu Mahama was speaking at a high-level gathering, aimed at recognising African leaders and Statesmen who have taken a giant stride in developing the continent through their expertise, altruistic political position, and selfless service to creating a stable buzzer zone for human lives to blossom, held at the Sheraton hotel, The Gambia.
Whilst it is true that we have increasingly become responsive to the needs of our people on the continent, we must continue to be assertive in engaging in the bold decision that enhances regional and continental integration, he cautioned. “At both economic and political levels, we must work towards more integration of our collective efforts.
“I am absolutely convinced that such integration efforts will also enhance and give meaning to compliance with ECOWAS regional political principles and protocols.”
He observed that peace – which is a catalyst to the development of Africa – is very critical to our accustomed discussion that we often garner ourselves to converse about the development of our African continent.
The Ghanaian former vice president said, for Africa to realise part of its dream, it needs a good leadership that will inspire the broader understanding and application of human security with the focus on human life and dignity.
He argued that an egocentric Head of state who is apathetic to the cause of his people, is far beyond the need of the continent; rather the African people hanker for a leader who will free them from intellectual slavery and the nuisance of despotism. “Indeed [we need] the type of transformative leadership that is selfless, but very inspiring to lift and motivate our people and turn around the fortunes of our continent.”
“As Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, I made my contribution while in government and continue to do so at the level of leadership and governance outside government. From my experience over the years, I am deeply convinced that we must continue to work hard to address the leadership question.”
As regards developing the continent, he observed that the most important issues that must continue to capture our attention include enhancing good governance and democratic practice, transparency and the fight against corruption, respect to the rule of law, and creating the enabling environment for private sector led development.
“We, in Africa hold the key to our own security and development and must galvanise the political will to make peace [and development] happen on our continent.
“We have to step up educational strategies to bring home to our leaders that the discourse about security in Africa has moved on to embrace human security. This involves the security of the individual [including food security] with respect to the satisfaction of the basic needs of life,” he explained.
For him, these are not the only mechanisms, rather “It also encompasses the creation of the social, political, economic, military, environmental and cultural conditions necessary for the survival, livelihood, and dignity of the individuals.”
He asked: “How do we build a security architecture or infrastructure from the State level to the Continental level to ensure the practice and application of human security?”
In providing a universal panacea to this question, he maintained that the Continent must make efforts to build capacities to protect the state and citizens.
He advised African governments to take with good fate advises from independent bodies on issues surrounding security and human development.
“Another area that we can consider is, encouraging independent organisations to assess and advise governments on issues relating to peace and security within Africa. Such bodies should also continue to educate the larger population on the causes of insecurity and suggested remedies to overcome these lapses as part of their research,” former Vice President Aliu Mahama who also chaired the gathering, said.
Monday, 17 October 2011
UPR of Thailand: Concerns over handling of migrant workers and situation in the south of the country
On 5 October 2011, the Working Group on the UPR examined the human rights situation in Thailand. The delegation was led by Mr Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Special Envoy of the Royal Thai Government, and Ambassador to the UN in Geneva.
In his introductory statement Mr Phuangketkeow stated that Thailand’s human rights record is one of the strongest in the region but that the situation for vulnerable groups, especially migrant workers and their families, needed further improvement. This view was shared by a number of countries, particularly those from the same region. States suggested that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) should make increased efforts in this regard, and that Thailand should cooperate further with its neighbours to improve the situation.
The dialogue largely focused on issues such as the situation of vulnerable groups, the ongoing security issues in the south of the country, and alleged restrictions on freedom of expression.
The dialogue largely focused on issues such as the situation of vulnerable groups, the ongoing security issues in the south of the country, and alleged restrictions on freedom of expression.
Friday, 14 October 2011
Clean hands save lives: Global Handwashing Day 2011 celebrated worldwide
On 15 October 2011, people across the globe will celebrate the 4th annual Global Handwashing Day aimed at increasing awareness and understanding on the importance of handwashing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent disease.
Last year’s global celebration was hugely successful with 200 million people and 700,000 schools in more than 70 countries celebrating the event. This year promises to be even bigger with more children, teachers, parents, celebrities and Government officials planning to motivate millions to lather up to prevent life-threatening diseases such as diarrhoea and acute respiratory infections.
Children suffer disproportionately from diarrhoeal diseases – with more than 2 million children under five dying every year from diarrhoea and pneumonia-related illnesses. The simple act of washing hands with soap at critical moments (such as after using the toilet and before handling food) is a key cost effective and lifesaving intervention. Research has shown that handwashing with soap can reduce the incidence of diarrhoea among children under five by almost 50 per cent, and respiratory infections by nearly 25 per cent.
In many developing countries, it is not the lack of soap that is usually the barrier – with the vast majority of poor households having soap in the home – rather, the problem is that soap is rarely used for handwashing. Creating lasting behavior change and ensuring handwashing with soap becomes a social norm are key components of UNICEF’s hygiene and sanitation programmes worldwide.
Governments around the world have now adopted Global Handwashing Day as a national celebration – the event is more than just a day and aims to ensure that handwashing with soap is practiced and promoted throughout the year. For example in 2010, all schools (18 million children) across Bangladesh participated in the celebrations which included mass handwashing demonstrations and nationwide media coverage. The event was used as a platform to launch the Government’s National Hygiene Campaign which aims to promote long-term behavior change, particularly handwashing with soap.
Global Handwashing Day was initiated in 2008 by the Global Public-Private Partnership for Handwashing with Soap, and it is endorsed by a wide array of governments, international institutions, civil society organisations, NGOs, private companies and individuals around the globe.
Everyone can get involved in this year’s Global Handwashing Day celebrations.
Courtsey of UNICEF Gambia
Last year’s global celebration was hugely successful with 200 million people and 700,000 schools in more than 70 countries celebrating the event. This year promises to be even bigger with more children, teachers, parents, celebrities and Government officials planning to motivate millions to lather up to prevent life-threatening diseases such as diarrhoea and acute respiratory infections.
Children suffer disproportionately from diarrhoeal diseases – with more than 2 million children under five dying every year from diarrhoea and pneumonia-related illnesses. The simple act of washing hands with soap at critical moments (such as after using the toilet and before handling food) is a key cost effective and lifesaving intervention. Research has shown that handwashing with soap can reduce the incidence of diarrhoea among children under five by almost 50 per cent, and respiratory infections by nearly 25 per cent.
In many developing countries, it is not the lack of soap that is usually the barrier – with the vast majority of poor households having soap in the home – rather, the problem is that soap is rarely used for handwashing. Creating lasting behavior change and ensuring handwashing with soap becomes a social norm are key components of UNICEF’s hygiene and sanitation programmes worldwide.
Governments around the world have now adopted Global Handwashing Day as a national celebration – the event is more than just a day and aims to ensure that handwashing with soap is practiced and promoted throughout the year. For example in 2010, all schools (18 million children) across Bangladesh participated in the celebrations which included mass handwashing demonstrations and nationwide media coverage. The event was used as a platform to launch the Government’s National Hygiene Campaign which aims to promote long-term behavior change, particularly handwashing with soap.
Global Handwashing Day was initiated in 2008 by the Global Public-Private Partnership for Handwashing with Soap, and it is endorsed by a wide array of governments, international institutions, civil society organisations, NGOs, private companies and individuals around the globe.
Everyone can get involved in this year’s Global Handwashing Day celebrations.
Courtsey of UNICEF Gambia
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