As the world celebrates Human Rights Day, it must not be forgotten that abuses continue on a daily basis in many parts of the world.
A recent report authored by 25 non-governmental organisations, DASHED HOPES - Continuation of the Gaza Blockade, highlights the plight of the citizens of Gaza despite the so-called easing of the blockade by Israel:
- 80% of the population is dependent on international aid
- 61% of the population is food insecure
- Unemployment rate is around 39%, one of the highest in the world.
- Power outages usually last 4-6 hours a day and often longer.
- 60% of Gaza’s population receives running water only once every 4 or 5 days, for 6-8 hours.
- 50 to 80 million litres of untreated or partially treated sewage are released into the sea every day.
- About 90% of water supplied to Gaza residents is not suitable for drinking and is contaminated with salt and nitrates.
- 78% of homes with major damages from Operation Cast Lead have not been rebuilt.
Hopefully the international community and Israel itself will take the urgent and necessady steps to ensure that the citizens of Gaza can join in the celebrations of Human Rights Day 2011.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Protect Wikileaks - Protect Free Speech
Please take the latest action from Avaaz demanding that the disgraceful campaign of intimidation against WikiLeaks stops.
Here is the communication Avaaz has issued:
Legal experts say WikiLeaks has likely broken no laws. Yet top US politicians have called it a terrorist group and commentators have urged assassination of its staff. The organization has come under massive government and corporate attack, but WikiLeaks is only publishing information provided by a whistleblower. And it has partnered with the world's leading newspapers (NYT, Guardian, Spiegel etc) to carefully vet the information it publishes.
The massive extra-judicial intimidation of WikiLeaks is an attack on democracy. We urgently need a public outcry for freedom of the press and expression. Sign the petition to stop the crackdown and forward this email to everyone -- let's get to 1 million voices and take out full page ads in US newspapers this week!
http://www.avaaz.org/en/wikileaks_petition/?vl
WikiLeaks isn't acting alone -- it's partnered with the top newspapers in the world (New York Times, The Guardian, Der Spiegel, etc) to carefully review 250,000 US diplomatic cables and remove any information that it is irresponsible to publish. Only 800 cables have been published so far. Past WikiLeaks publications have exposed government-backed torture, the murder of innocent civilians in Iraq and Afghanistan, and corporate corruption.
The US government is currently pursuing all legal avenues to stop WikiLeaks from publishing more cables, but the laws of democracies protect freedom of the press. The US and other governments may not like the laws that protect our freedom of expression, but that's exactly why it's so important that we have them, and why only a democratic process can change them.
Reasonable people can disagree on whether WikiLeaks and the leading newspapers it's partnered with are releasing more information than the public should see. Whether the releases undermine diplomatic confidentiality and whether that's a good thing. Whether WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has the personal character of a hero or a villain. But none of this justifies a vicious campaign of intimidation to silence a legal media outlet by governments and corporations. Click below to join the call to stop the crackdown:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/wikileaks_petition/?vl
Ever wonder why the media so rarely gives the full story of what happens behind the scenes? This is why - because when they do, governments can be vicious in their response. And when that happens, it's up to the public to stand up for our democratic rights to a free press and freedom of expression. Never has there been a more vital time for us to do so.
Here is the communication Avaaz has issued:
Legal experts say WikiLeaks has likely broken no laws. Yet top US politicians have called it a terrorist group and commentators have urged assassination of its staff. The organization has come under massive government and corporate attack, but WikiLeaks is only publishing information provided by a whistleblower. And it has partnered with the world's leading newspapers (NYT, Guardian, Spiegel etc) to carefully vet the information it publishes.
The massive extra-judicial intimidation of WikiLeaks is an attack on democracy. We urgently need a public outcry for freedom of the press and expression. Sign the petition to stop the crackdown and forward this email to everyone -- let's get to 1 million voices and take out full page ads in US newspapers this week!
http://www.avaaz.org/en/wikileaks_petition/?vl
WikiLeaks isn't acting alone -- it's partnered with the top newspapers in the world (New York Times, The Guardian, Der Spiegel, etc) to carefully review 250,000 US diplomatic cables and remove any information that it is irresponsible to publish. Only 800 cables have been published so far. Past WikiLeaks publications have exposed government-backed torture, the murder of innocent civilians in Iraq and Afghanistan, and corporate corruption.
The US government is currently pursuing all legal avenues to stop WikiLeaks from publishing more cables, but the laws of democracies protect freedom of the press. The US and other governments may not like the laws that protect our freedom of expression, but that's exactly why it's so important that we have them, and why only a democratic process can change them.
Reasonable people can disagree on whether WikiLeaks and the leading newspapers it's partnered with are releasing more information than the public should see. Whether the releases undermine diplomatic confidentiality and whether that's a good thing. Whether WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has the personal character of a hero or a villain. But none of this justifies a vicious campaign of intimidation to silence a legal media outlet by governments and corporations. Click below to join the call to stop the crackdown:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/wikileaks_petition/?vl
Ever wonder why the media so rarely gives the full story of what happens behind the scenes? This is why - because when they do, governments can be vicious in their response. And when that happens, it's up to the public to stand up for our democratic rights to a free press and freedom of expression. Never has there been a more vital time for us to do so.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
World AIDS Day
Today is World AIDS Day and a moment to raise awareness and ask people to unite together in the fight against HIV & AIDS.
Wear the red ribbon today in solidarity with those living and dead, and to show your support for the campaign for universal access to healthcare.
Wear the red ribbon today in solidarity with those living and dead, and to show your support for the campaign for universal access to healthcare.
Friday, November 19, 2010
The IMF is Coming - Look Busy
Despite numerous protestations by Ireland's beleaguered leaders, the IMF is in Ireland for talks about the future of the country.
Whilst these talks take place, here is some food for thought. Recent action by the IMF has included:
- In Pakistan, where people are suffering the impacts of massive flooding, the IMF has required government to end energy subsidies, increase fuel and electricity tariffs and increase regressive excise and sales taxes.
- In Jamaica teachers and other public sector workers have not received negotiated reimbursements of salary arrears.
- In Romania as part of a 2010 bail-out loan, public sector wages were slashed by 25% and pensions by 15%.
Here's a recent analysis of IMF crisis lending.
Whilst these talks take place, here is some food for thought. Recent action by the IMF has included:
- In Pakistan, where people are suffering the impacts of massive flooding, the IMF has required government to end energy subsidies, increase fuel and electricity tariffs and increase regressive excise and sales taxes.
- In Jamaica teachers and other public sector workers have not received negotiated reimbursements of salary arrears.
- In Romania as part of a 2010 bail-out loan, public sector wages were slashed by 25% and pensions by 15%.
Here's a recent analysis of IMF crisis lending.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Aung San Suu Kyi Released
After spending 15 of the last 21 years under house arrest, Aung San Suu Kyi has been released. Following months of negotiations, the pro-democracy leader and world icon was set free. But under what conditions?
Will the military allow her the freedoms necessary to play the important role expected of her in a country in transition, namely freedom of movement and expression? Will she be allowed remain in the country and participate in politics? Will she be allowed to challenge the long standing power and position held by the military?
Most importantly, will all political prisoners now be released? Governments of the world and the mass media may be satisfied with the liberation of Aung San Suu Kyi alone but there remains over 2000 others imprisoned for opposition to an oppressive regime.
Hopefully, her speech on Sunday will give an insight into the future of Burma/Myanmar and its people.
Will the military allow her the freedoms necessary to play the important role expected of her in a country in transition, namely freedom of movement and expression? Will she be allowed remain in the country and participate in politics? Will she be allowed to challenge the long standing power and position held by the military?
Most importantly, will all political prisoners now be released? Governments of the world and the mass media may be satisfied with the liberation of Aung San Suu Kyi alone but there remains over 2000 others imprisoned for opposition to an oppressive regime.
Hopefully, her speech on Sunday will give an insight into the future of Burma/Myanmar and its people.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Trace the Tax
Debt and Development Coalition Ireland and Christian Aid Ireland have jointly launched a new campaign, Trace the Tax, this week.
International tax dodging, made possible by secrecy in the global financial system, results in the loss for many countries in the developing world of tens of billions of dollars each year.
The campaign is calling on multinational companies Vodafone and Unilever to;
- back a new international accounting standard on country-by-country reporting as a means of preventing tax dodging.
- ask their auditors to back it too and the International Accounting Standards Board to introduce it
These companies are well known within Ireland, internationally recognised and have both publically expressed a commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). They can become positive examples within the business community and help to dramatically build campaign momentum.
Call on Vodafone, Unilever and the Irish Government to support country-by-country reporting and stop tax dodging now.
International tax dodging, made possible by secrecy in the global financial system, results in the loss for many countries in the developing world of tens of billions of dollars each year.
The campaign is calling on multinational companies Vodafone and Unilever to;
- back a new international accounting standard on country-by-country reporting as a means of preventing tax dodging.
- ask their auditors to back it too and the International Accounting Standards Board to introduce it
These companies are well known within Ireland, internationally recognised and have both publically expressed a commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). They can become positive examples within the business community and help to dramatically build campaign momentum.
Call on Vodafone, Unilever and the Irish Government to support country-by-country reporting and stop tax dodging now.
Monday, October 18, 2010
The Poor Can't Pay
The Poor Can't Pay Coalition recently released two videos to highlight the difficulties faced by those on low incomes in Ireland:
Friday, October 15, 2010
Blog Action Day 2010
Today is Blog Action Day and thousands of bloggers from around the world have agreed to come together and write about water issues this year.
This is a perfect opportunity for bloggers in Ireland to discuss the proposed water charges that the government supposedly intend to bring into effect in the very near future.
The concept of water charges is in itself a good idea if it encourages people to regulate their water usage and the tax collected is ear marked for investment in the country's infrastructure - thus limiting the current disgraceful waste of such a precious resource through leakage.
Unfortunately it has been suggested that the government plans to apply a blanket charge rather than one based on actual usage. This removes any financial incentive to conserve water or to alter behaviour usage. In addition, the tax collected will simply be thrown at reducing the country's deficit and thus the dilapidated infrastructure that urgently requires upgrading will remain untouched.
At the moment, it looks like a wasted opportunity by the Irish Government to raise public awareness about water being a precious resource in need of conservation. Instead it just lookes like another attempt at trying to tax away the problems that the country is currently suffering from.
This is a perfect opportunity for bloggers in Ireland to discuss the proposed water charges that the government supposedly intend to bring into effect in the very near future.
The concept of water charges is in itself a good idea if it encourages people to regulate their water usage and the tax collected is ear marked for investment in the country's infrastructure - thus limiting the current disgraceful waste of such a precious resource through leakage.
Unfortunately it has been suggested that the government plans to apply a blanket charge rather than one based on actual usage. This removes any financial incentive to conserve water or to alter behaviour usage. In addition, the tax collected will simply be thrown at reducing the country's deficit and thus the dilapidated infrastructure that urgently requires upgrading will remain untouched.
At the moment, it looks like a wasted opportunity by the Irish Government to raise public awareness about water being a precious resource in need of conservation. Instead it just lookes like another attempt at trying to tax away the problems that the country is currently suffering from.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Worst Lobbying Awards 2010
Scaremongering, blocking, astroturfing, deception...
Europe is full of corporate lobbyists who engage in these underhand tactics to further the cause of big business. Profits are being put before people and the planet and these lobbyists are to blame.
The Worst EU Lobbying Awards is an initiative organised by CEO, Friends of the Earth Europe, SPINWATCH and Lobby Control.
You can help discredit big businesses engaged in inappropriate lobbying in Brussels by casting your vote and adding your voice to the call for a clean-up in Europe.
Europe is full of corporate lobbyists who engage in these underhand tactics to further the cause of big business. Profits are being put before people and the planet and these lobbyists are to blame.
The Worst EU Lobbying Awards is an initiative organised by CEO, Friends of the Earth Europe, SPINWATCH and Lobby Control.
You can help discredit big businesses engaged in inappropriate lobbying in Brussels by casting your vote and adding your voice to the call for a clean-up in Europe.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Reputation Matters
Every other week Ireland's credit rating is being dropped by various international agencies. Investors look upon the country with serious trepidation and Ireland's financial regulatory system is seen as a rouge pariah.
All in all, Ireland's reputation has taken an almighty beating.
The domestic effects are unfortunately all too apparent and most citizens will look upon the upcoming December budget with considerable apprehension. However, there is also another angle that is not being considered.
For years Irish non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have complemented their public campaigning work with strategic political advocacy. Illegitimate debt, the quality and quantity of overseas aid, policy conditionality, trade rules and the representation of developing countries on key international financial institutions are all issues that advocates have painstakingly grafted onto the agenda of Irish diplomats and civil servants in key departments. Although not always successful, the framing of Ireland's international voice by NGOs has at times instigated change at the international level.
But what now? Even if our diplomats are effectively influenced by the arguments of NGO policy advocates in this country, will they be in a position to bring that voice to the international stage. Is Ireland's reputation so damaged that we are facing a long period occupying the shadows and being ignored? Has a lot of great work now been undone?
Only time will tell but the difficult art of advocacy has just been made dramatically more complicated.
All in all, Ireland's reputation has taken an almighty beating.
The domestic effects are unfortunately all too apparent and most citizens will look upon the upcoming December budget with considerable apprehension. However, there is also another angle that is not being considered.
For years Irish non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have complemented their public campaigning work with strategic political advocacy. Illegitimate debt, the quality and quantity of overseas aid, policy conditionality, trade rules and the representation of developing countries on key international financial institutions are all issues that advocates have painstakingly grafted onto the agenda of Irish diplomats and civil servants in key departments. Although not always successful, the framing of Ireland's international voice by NGOs has at times instigated change at the international level.
But what now? Even if our diplomats are effectively influenced by the arguments of NGO policy advocates in this country, will they be in a position to bring that voice to the international stage. Is Ireland's reputation so damaged that we are facing a long period occupying the shadows and being ignored? Has a lot of great work now been undone?
Only time will tell but the difficult art of advocacy has just been made dramatically more complicated.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Forgotten Climate
The Irish Government's Autumn 2010 legislation programme, which was published yesterday, has failed to include a Climate Bill.
The Government committed itself last December to passing a climate law in 2010 but with only three months of the year remaining, that is looking increasingly doubtful. Yesterday was yet another missed deadline.
As previously mentioned, nearly half of all sitting TDs recently signed up to the Stop Climate Chaos climate commitment which secured their support for the passing of a strong climate bill.
It's time the Irish Government listens to the will of its people and their representatives.
The Government committed itself last December to passing a climate law in 2010 but with only three months of the year remaining, that is looking increasingly doubtful. Yesterday was yet another missed deadline.
As previously mentioned, nearly half of all sitting TDs recently signed up to the Stop Climate Chaos climate commitment which secured their support for the passing of a strong climate bill.
It's time the Irish Government listens to the will of its people and their representatives.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Update: Israeli Flotilla Raid - Illegal
It's been reported today that the UN Human Rights Council has found that Israel's military broke multiple international laws when it raided the Gaza bound flotilla in May of this year.
In addition, the UN body also called the Israeli blockade unlawful in itself.
Israel has already denounced the findings as biased but once again a UN body has found the actions of Israel to be contrary to international law.
However, whether or not there will be appropriate consequences is another matter.
In addition, the UN body also called the Israeli blockade unlawful in itself.
Israel has already denounced the findings as biased but once again a UN body has found the actions of Israel to be contrary to international law.
However, whether or not there will be appropriate consequences is another matter.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Update: Civil Partnership
The Irish Times today reported that campaigners have seized on the paper's Behaviour & Attitudes poll which shows that a large majority of people in Ireland support a move towards civil marriage legislation for same-sex couples.
The poll found that 67% of people believe gay couples should be allowed to marry and interestingly a further 60% do not believe such a move would undermine the institution of marriage.
Surely there are still some brave TDs in the Dáil who will now listen to the people and stick their neck outs by working to achieve true equality for same-sex couples.
The poll found that 67% of people believe gay couples should be allowed to marry and interestingly a further 60% do not believe such a move would undermine the institution of marriage.
Surely there are still some brave TDs in the Dáil who will now listen to the people and stick their neck outs by working to achieve true equality for same-sex couples.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Gaza Moments
French photographer, Anne Paq, has released a short video of her latest clips and photographs of the people of Gaza;
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Charitable Well-Being
Ireland has been ranked joint third (with Canada) in the Charities Aid Foundation's World Giving Index. The index is the result of a study that analysed the generosity of the world's countries based on people's financial donations and the amount of time they volunteer.
Interestingly, the study concluded that there was a stronger link between well-being and giving than there was between a country's wealth and giving. Quite simply, when we are happy, we are more charitable. And our happiness is not solely dependent on the country's wealth. However, that is not to suggest that we resurrect the dated image of the poor but happy Irish. It is simply a statistical finding worthy of further consideration.
For instance, a country's wealth has no bearing on the population if it's squandered. So for all the recent attention and importance that our politicians have given to Ireland's GDP, they must remember that the people need more than money in the country's coffers in order to be happy. They need it in their pockets too. There will always be those who have more than others but without a genuine redistribution of wealth, a high GDP is irrelevant to the vast majority of Irish citizens. One recent example is how the Samaritans warned that some people with suicidal feelings are choosing not to visit their doctor due to the high cost. At a time when the suicide rate is rising in Ireland, this is an extremely worrying development and is being inadequately addressed by those in power.
Behind all the statistics lie the people. Every fact and figure is simply a reference point for another person's life. The decisions that politicians make based on numbers affect the lives of people and it's about time they realised that.
Interestingly, the study concluded that there was a stronger link between well-being and giving than there was between a country's wealth and giving. Quite simply, when we are happy, we are more charitable. And our happiness is not solely dependent on the country's wealth. However, that is not to suggest that we resurrect the dated image of the poor but happy Irish. It is simply a statistical finding worthy of further consideration.
For instance, a country's wealth has no bearing on the population if it's squandered. So for all the recent attention and importance that our politicians have given to Ireland's GDP, they must remember that the people need more than money in the country's coffers in order to be happy. They need it in their pockets too. There will always be those who have more than others but without a genuine redistribution of wealth, a high GDP is irrelevant to the vast majority of Irish citizens. One recent example is how the Samaritans warned that some people with suicidal feelings are choosing not to visit their doctor due to the high cost. At a time when the suicide rate is rising in Ireland, this is an extremely worrying development and is being inadequately addressed by those in power.
Behind all the statistics lie the people. Every fact and figure is simply a reference point for another person's life. The decisions that politicians make based on numbers affect the lives of people and it's about time they realised that.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Real Leadership?
Here's an interesting short video exploring what it means to be a leader and whether the world really needs many?
Friday, August 20, 2010
Get Back to Work
Dáil Éireann will resume in September after breaking for the summer recess on July 8th. I hope that Irish politicians have used this time wisely planning how to address the state of the nation. Here's a little reminder of some of the problems they may want to address:
- The unemployment rate is close to 14%
- Over 30,000 home owners are known to be in arrears of three months or more.
- Acts of robbery, kidnapping, rape, murder threats and weapon offences are all statistically more common compared to Central Statistic Office figures from 2009.
- Poor and often homeless people make up 60% of those serving sentences for six months or less according to the Irish Penal Reform Trust
September can't come quickly enough.
- The unemployment rate is close to 14%
- Over 30,000 home owners are known to be in arrears of three months or more.
- Acts of robbery, kidnapping, rape, murder threats and weapon offences are all statistically more common compared to Central Statistic Office figures from 2009.
- Poor and often homeless people make up 60% of those serving sentences for six months or less according to the Irish Penal Reform Trust
September can't come quickly enough.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Irish Climate Change Bill
Labour's Liz McManus issued a statement yesterday criticising the government for failing to have published a climate change bill within the last year. She saved special rebuke for the Green Party for not ensuring that climate change has become a major priority during its time in government.
Lobbying for a climate bill has intensified in recent months. The Irish coalition Stop Climate Chaos recently held a very successful event which resulted in over 70 TDs signing a climate commitment which secured their support for:
- the passing of a strong climate bill that achieves targets without relying on the purchase of carbon offset credits
- the establishment of an independent advisory climate change committee
Since the lobby event more TDs have signed up with the number now exceeding 80, although that includes Minister John Gormley's amended climate commitment which unfortunately excludes the text about carbon offset credits.
The Irish Government needs to deliver a strong climate change law this year that meets the demands of the climate commitment (which has received massive cross party support) and protects the overseas development aid budget from being raided to pay for Ireland's contribution to address climate change internationally.
You can see if your local TDs have already voiced their support for the climate commitment here and if not; get on their cases.
Lobbying for a climate bill has intensified in recent months. The Irish coalition Stop Climate Chaos recently held a very successful event which resulted in over 70 TDs signing a climate commitment which secured their support for:
- the passing of a strong climate bill that achieves targets without relying on the purchase of carbon offset credits
- the establishment of an independent advisory climate change committee
Since the lobby event more TDs have signed up with the number now exceeding 80, although that includes Minister John Gormley's amended climate commitment which unfortunately excludes the text about carbon offset credits.
The Irish Government needs to deliver a strong climate change law this year that meets the demands of the climate commitment (which has received massive cross party support) and protects the overseas development aid budget from being raided to pay for Ireland's contribution to address climate change internationally.
You can see if your local TDs have already voiced their support for the climate commitment here and if not; get on their cases.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Brazil Tackles Corruption
Massive congratulations are due to the Brazilian people, a handful of committed politicians and the Avaaz community in Brazil for achieving a stunning legal victory.
A new law, dubbed ficha limpa (clean record) has been passed that bans any politician convicted of crimes such as corruption or money laundering from running for office. Hundreds of candidates are already facing disqualification as the law has a retrospective reach for such insidious activities.
The result of over 1.5 million citizens standing up against corruption and forcing Brazil's Congress to abide by their will; it is truly a great moment in an otherwise sleaze laden age.
A new law, dubbed ficha limpa (clean record) has been passed that bans any politician convicted of crimes such as corruption or money laundering from running for office. Hundreds of candidates are already facing disqualification as the law has a retrospective reach for such insidious activities.
The result of over 1.5 million citizens standing up against corruption and forcing Brazil's Congress to abide by their will; it is truly a great moment in an otherwise sleaze laden age.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings
Earlier this month, Ireland became the 30th state to ratify the Council of Europe's Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings. The purpose of this convention according to Article 1 is:
- to prevent and combat trafficking in human beings, guaranteeing gender equality;
- to protect the human rights of the victims of trafficking, design a comprehensive framework for the protection and assistance of victims and witnesses, guaranteeing gender equality, and ensure effective investigation and prosecution;
- to promote international cooperation on action against trafficking in human beings.
The Convention applies to all forms of trafficking whether national or international and regardless of the victim's sex. It will enter into force in Ireland on 1st November 2010 and will hopefully ensure that this modern form of slavery is finally tackled in Ireland.
- to prevent and combat trafficking in human beings, guaranteeing gender equality;
- to protect the human rights of the victims of trafficking, design a comprehensive framework for the protection and assistance of victims and witnesses, guaranteeing gender equality, and ensure effective investigation and prosecution;
- to promote international cooperation on action against trafficking in human beings.
The Convention applies to all forms of trafficking whether national or international and regardless of the victim's sex. It will enter into force in Ireland on 1st November 2010 and will hopefully ensure that this modern form of slavery is finally tackled in Ireland.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Update: Civil Partnership
Yesterday morning, President McAleese signed the Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010 into law.
Despite the fact that the bill was far from perfect and does not address the need for absolute equality between same-sex and opposite-sex couples, it is most definitely a step in the right direction and a credit to the many campaigners who worked to realise this achievement.
Congratulations are most deserved.
Despite the fact that the bill was far from perfect and does not address the need for absolute equality between same-sex and opposite-sex couples, it is most definitely a step in the right direction and a credit to the many campaigners who worked to realise this achievement.
Congratulations are most deserved.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Justice Delayed...
It was a welcome development this week to hear the Ombudsman for Children, Emily Logan, call for urgent constitutional change in order to ensure that future legislation protects the rights of children as a priority.
The Joint Committee on the Constitutional Amendment on Children, set up in 2007, concluded its work in February of this year with the publication of its third and final report calling for a new article to be inserted into the Constitution which gives express recognition to the rights of children as individuals.
The current provisions in the Constitution that relate to children are reflective of the period that they were written - 1937. In 2010, we have over 70 years of evolved thinking about children's rights behind us and need to amend the Constitution to mirror that. Though the work done by the Joint Committee on the Constitutional Amendment on Children has been a massive step forward, any amendment must encapsulate the principles enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (ratified by Ireland in 1992) if children's rights are to be truly realised and protected in Ireland.
As yet, there is still no definitive timeframe for the necessary referendum. The Government needs to listen to Ms Logan, The Children's Rights Alliance and all other interested parties and once and for all set a date.
The Joint Committee on the Constitutional Amendment on Children, set up in 2007, concluded its work in February of this year with the publication of its third and final report calling for a new article to be inserted into the Constitution which gives express recognition to the rights of children as individuals.
The current provisions in the Constitution that relate to children are reflective of the period that they were written - 1937. In 2010, we have over 70 years of evolved thinking about children's rights behind us and need to amend the Constitution to mirror that. Though the work done by the Joint Committee on the Constitutional Amendment on Children has been a massive step forward, any amendment must encapsulate the principles enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (ratified by Ireland in 1992) if children's rights are to be truly realised and protected in Ireland.
As yet, there is still no definitive timeframe for the necessary referendum. The Government needs to listen to Ms Logan, The Children's Rights Alliance and all other interested parties and once and for all set a date.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Update: U.N Women
The United National General Assembly voted unanimously last Friday to create the new UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women.
Consolidating four seperate UN divisions dealing with women's and gender issues, U.N Women will become operation on January 1st 2011.
Consolidating four seperate UN divisions dealing with women's and gender issues, U.N Women will become operation on January 1st 2011.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Coalition of the Willing
Here's a great animation from Knife Party Productions giving an alternative commentary on climate change and the world:
Coalition Of The Willing from coalitionfilm on Vimeo.
US to cut Aid to Afghanistan
A subcommittee of the US House of Representatives has voted to block $3.9 billion in aid to Afghanistan.
Highlighting corruption as the principal reason for the vote, chairwoman Nita Lowey explained:
I do not intend to appropriate one more dime for assistance to Afghanistan until I have confidence that US taxpayer money is not being abused to line the pockets of corrupt Afghan government officials, drug lords and terrorists
I agree that all imaginable measure should be taken to ensure that aid money is not siphoned away by corrupt individuals and that it benefits the most vulnerable people in fragile states such as Afghanistan. Also, all tax payers unquestionably deserve transparency and accountability. However, the pious language of the subcommittee's statement seems to ignore the fact that the all-important US taxpayer money in question is used to fund an occupying army in Afghanistan.
Worse still, it is hard to accept the veracity of such sentiments when a recent report by numerous international aid agencies highlighted that aid is referred to as a nonlethal weapon in a US army manual for troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Highlighting corruption as the principal reason for the vote, chairwoman Nita Lowey explained:
I do not intend to appropriate one more dime for assistance to Afghanistan until I have confidence that US taxpayer money is not being abused to line the pockets of corrupt Afghan government officials, drug lords and terrorists
I agree that all imaginable measure should be taken to ensure that aid money is not siphoned away by corrupt individuals and that it benefits the most vulnerable people in fragile states such as Afghanistan. Also, all tax payers unquestionably deserve transparency and accountability. However, the pious language of the subcommittee's statement seems to ignore the fact that the all-important US taxpayer money in question is used to fund an occupying army in Afghanistan.
Worse still, it is hard to accept the veracity of such sentiments when a recent report by numerous international aid agencies highlighted that aid is referred to as a nonlethal weapon in a US army manual for troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Victory for US Gun Lobby
Yesterday's split decision by the US Supreme Court that secured an individual's contitutional right to bear arms in every corner of the country and thus overturned a ban on handguns in Chicago has been strongly condemned by the Violence Policy Centre. See their official reaction below:
People will die because of this decision. It is a victory only for the gun lobby and America's fading firearms industry. The inevitable tide of frivolous pro-gun litigation destined to follow will force cities, counties, and states to expend scarce resources to defend longstanding, effective public safety laws. The gun lobby and gunmakers are seeking nothing less than the complete dismantling of our nation’s gun laws in a cynical effort to try and stem the long-term drop in gun ownership and save the dwindling gun industry. The 30,000 lives claimed annually by gun violence and the families destroyed in the wake of mass shootings and murder-suicides mean little to the gun lobby and the firearm manufacturers it protects.
It is our hope that Chicago’s citizens will follow the lead of the residents of the District of Columbia--who were stripped of their handgun ban in the wake of the Supreme Court’s June 2008 decision in District of Columbia v. Heller. In the two years since that decision, only 900 firearms have been registered in the District that otherwise could not have been registered before the Heller ruling. The citizens of DC reject the wrong-headed notion that more guns make us safer. We know the facts prove the opposite and that areas of the country with the highest concentration of gun ownership also have the highest rates of gun death. We urge Chicago residents to consider these indisputable facts before considering bringing a handgun into their homes--an act that could well prove fatal to themselves or a loved one.
People will die because of this decision. It is a victory only for the gun lobby and America's fading firearms industry. The inevitable tide of frivolous pro-gun litigation destined to follow will force cities, counties, and states to expend scarce resources to defend longstanding, effective public safety laws. The gun lobby and gunmakers are seeking nothing less than the complete dismantling of our nation’s gun laws in a cynical effort to try and stem the long-term drop in gun ownership and save the dwindling gun industry. The 30,000 lives claimed annually by gun violence and the families destroyed in the wake of mass shootings and murder-suicides mean little to the gun lobby and the firearm manufacturers it protects.
It is our hope that Chicago’s citizens will follow the lead of the residents of the District of Columbia--who were stripped of their handgun ban in the wake of the Supreme Court’s June 2008 decision in District of Columbia v. Heller. In the two years since that decision, only 900 firearms have been registered in the District that otherwise could not have been registered before the Heller ruling. The citizens of DC reject the wrong-headed notion that more guns make us safer. We know the facts prove the opposite and that areas of the country with the highest concentration of gun ownership also have the highest rates of gun death. We urge Chicago residents to consider these indisputable facts before considering bringing a handgun into their homes--an act that could well prove fatal to themselves or a loved one.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Monday, June 14, 2010
Update: Israeli Inquiry
The commission set up by Israel to investigate the raid of a Gaza bound flotilla has been unsurprisingly welcomed by White House officials. This is despite the fact that:
(1) It will be headed and dominated by Israeli citizens,
(2) Denies a vote to the foreign observing members,
(3) Does not appear to possess a mandate to examine the Israeli government's decision making role in the raid and,
(4) Will no be allowed to interview the soldiers that were involved.
Manifestly the composition and scope of the commission lacks credibility. If there is to be an inquiry, it must be international and genuinely independent. Otherwise it will be nothing more than self serving propaganda.
(1) It will be headed and dominated by Israeli citizens,
(2) Denies a vote to the foreign observing members,
(3) Does not appear to possess a mandate to examine the Israeli government's decision making role in the raid and,
(4) Will no be allowed to interview the soldiers that were involved.
Manifestly the composition and scope of the commission lacks credibility. If there is to be an inquiry, it must be international and genuinely independent. Otherwise it will be nothing more than self serving propaganda.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Alternative World Cup Ratings
The World Development Movement has set up an online ranking system for the world cup based on social justice.
WhoShouldICheerFor.com examines factors such as aid contribution, maternal mortality, life expectancy and carbon emissions and has rated the competing nations as follows:
1. Ghana
2. Paraguay
3. Honduras
4. Cote d’Ivoire
5. Cameroon
6. The Netherlands
7. Nigeria
8. Spain
9. Germany
10. Switzerland
11. Denmark
12. Slovakia
13. New Zealand
14. Japan
15. Mexico
16. Brazil
17. Serbia
18. France
19. Argentina
20. Slovenia
21. Uruguay
22. Algeria
23. Chile
24. Italy
25. Australia
26. Portugal
27. England
28. South Africa
29. South Korea
30. Greece
31. USA
32. North Korea* (Not enough data available)
WhoShouldICheerFor.com examines factors such as aid contribution, maternal mortality, life expectancy and carbon emissions and has rated the competing nations as follows:
1. Ghana
2. Paraguay
3. Honduras
4. Cote d’Ivoire
5. Cameroon
6. The Netherlands
7. Nigeria
8. Spain
9. Germany
10. Switzerland
11. Denmark
12. Slovakia
13. New Zealand
14. Japan
15. Mexico
16. Brazil
17. Serbia
18. France
19. Argentina
20. Slovenia
21. Uruguay
22. Algeria
23. Chile
24. Italy
25. Australia
26. Portugal
27. England
28. South Africa
29. South Korea
30. Greece
31. USA
32. North Korea* (Not enough data available)
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Update - Mapping Peace
The 2010 Global Peace Index was released today and accompanied with an excellent map. Once again, New Zealand topped the poll of 149 countries as most peaceful nation. Retaining its position at the top of the league, New Zealand scored well in related areas such as civil liberties, political participation, life expectancy and education enrolment.
PS: If you enjoy the interactive map, take a look at these visualisations from Information is Beautiful.
PS: If you enjoy the interactive map, take a look at these visualisations from Information is Beautiful.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Take Action Against Israel
Israel has broken international law, committed acts of state terrorism, killed innocent civilians and acted with impunity. This was unfortunately true long before Israel ordered its commandos to intercept the Gaza bound flotilla and has been the modus operandi of the country for decades.
For all those seeking to take action against Israel, here is a brief list of some that are currently live in Ireland:
For all those seeking to take action against Israel, here is a brief list of some that are currently live in Ireland:
- Demand an investigation - Amnesty International.
- Call on the Irish Government to take action against Israel - Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign.
- Sign the petition to expel the Israeli Ambassador - Contact.ie.
- Call for action against Israel - Free Gaza Movement Ireland.
Internationally, Avaaz have also just launched a petition calling for an immediate and independent investigation in addition to the lifting of the Gaza blockade.
Protests have already taken place throughout Ireland and more will follow. Take part and don't allow this atrocity to slip from the news desks.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Abortion Abroad
Figures published this week showed a decline (for the 8th year in a row) in the number of women travelling from Ireland to the UK for abortions. Despite this latest reduction, over 4,000 women in 2009 were still forced to leave the country in order to avail of a service that should be provided domestically. Ireland must end its exportation of women who require a pregnancy termination and seek to provide services in a sensitive way at home.
Contemporaneous with the release of these figures was a judgement by the Mexican Supreme Court holding that abortion must be provided to victims of rape and that women had the right to avoid forced pregnancies. Interestingly, this is a view that an overwhelming majority of the Irish population would appear to hold according to a survey conducted by the Irish Family Planning Association in March 2010. Yet motivation to liberalise the law in Ireland is conspicuously absent.
However, the European Court of Human Rights is expected to issue of judgement later this year following a challenge to Ireland's abortion law by three women in December 2009. So Ireland may be forced to review and reform its law in the very near future whether it wants to or not.
Contemporaneous with the release of these figures was a judgement by the Mexican Supreme Court holding that abortion must be provided to victims of rape and that women had the right to avoid forced pregnancies. Interestingly, this is a view that an overwhelming majority of the Irish population would appear to hold according to a survey conducted by the Irish Family Planning Association in March 2010. Yet motivation to liberalise the law in Ireland is conspicuously absent.
However, the European Court of Human Rights is expected to issue of judgement later this year following a challenge to Ireland's abortion law by three women in December 2009. So Ireland may be forced to review and reform its law in the very near future whether it wants to or not.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
FTT Momentum
As the Robin Hood Tax campaign captures the imagination of activists in more and more countries, the world is being forced to respond to the calls for a Financial Transaction Tax.
The latest move is the announcement today that the European Commission will present a plan to the G20 in June for the establishment of an EU network of bank resolution funds. Although the proposal sounds very much like an insurance scheme for banks, the press release states numerous times that this is not the case.
There is no mention of using funds raised for tackling issues such as climate change and global poverty, but the very mention of a coordinated approach to taxing banks is a positive step forward.
The latest move is the announcement today that the European Commission will present a plan to the G20 in June for the establishment of an EU network of bank resolution funds. Although the proposal sounds very much like an insurance scheme for banks, the press release states numerous times that this is not the case.
There is no mention of using funds raised for tackling issues such as climate change and global poverty, but the very mention of a coordinated approach to taxing banks is a positive step forward.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Who Gets What?
A colleague recently brought my attention to a parliamentary question asked last week by Joanna Tuffy - requesting a break down from Minister Power of all Irish Aid funding provided to Irish NGOs in recent years.
The following table was given in reply, from which I will simply list some of the largest benefactors.
Concern Worldwide:
2010 - 15, 997,000
2009 - 24,812,620
2008 - 33,395,950
GOAL:
2010 - 9,960,720
2009 - 16,596,722
2008 - 20,197,526
Trocaire:
2010 - 11,200,000
2009 - 19,524,452
2008 - 22,999,837
Misean Cara:
2010 - 11,200,000
2009 - 16,000,000
2008 - 20,000,000
It is quite clear, from a brief examination of the table, that there is still a propensity for funding to be given to organisations that have a religious ethos at their core. With the exception of GOAL and Guidestar Ireland Ltd, secular NGOs simply do not come close to achieving that level of funding. That is not to say that all organisations with a religious persuasion are provided with such sums (see for example Christian Aid) or that such funding is not justified. It is just a numerical fact. I am also not ignoring that organisations such as Concern have been active for decades and are considerably larger than any other NGO in Ireland - though with such funding, it is clear to see how it can maintain its size and engage in the quantity of work that it does.
I am referencing the table as I think it is important for tax payers to see what organisations are trusted to spend part of Ireland's aid budget. The table should be examined in great detail and judgements should be made by the public as to whether the NGOs that benefit most financially are leaders in their field or examples of best practice.
The following table was given in reply, from which I will simply list some of the largest benefactors.
Concern Worldwide:
2010 - 15, 997,000
2009 - 24,812,620
2008 - 33,395,950
GOAL:
2010 - 9,960,720
2009 - 16,596,722
2008 - 20,197,526
Trocaire:
2010 - 11,200,000
2009 - 19,524,452
2008 - 22,999,837
Misean Cara:
2010 - 11,200,000
2009 - 16,000,000
2008 - 20,000,000
It is quite clear, from a brief examination of the table, that there is still a propensity for funding to be given to organisations that have a religious ethos at their core. With the exception of GOAL and Guidestar Ireland Ltd, secular NGOs simply do not come close to achieving that level of funding. That is not to say that all organisations with a religious persuasion are provided with such sums (see for example Christian Aid) or that such funding is not justified. It is just a numerical fact. I am also not ignoring that organisations such as Concern have been active for decades and are considerably larger than any other NGO in Ireland - though with such funding, it is clear to see how it can maintain its size and engage in the quantity of work that it does.
I am referencing the table as I think it is important for tax payers to see what organisations are trusted to spend part of Ireland's aid budget. The table should be examined in great detail and judgements should be made by the public as to whether the NGOs that benefit most financially are leaders in their field or examples of best practice.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Stop Gibe 3
The Italian and Chinese governments and potentially the European Investment Bank are currently financing the construction of a dam in Ethiopia that threatens the livelihoods of 500,000 people in both Ethiopia and Kenya.
The Gibe 3 dam on the Omo river, if completed, will;
The Gibe 3 dam on the Omo river, if completed, will;
- End the river's natural food cycle
- Reduce water flow to Lake Turkana in Northern Kenya
- Devastate the UNESCO recognised ecosystems of the Omo and Lake Turkana
The construction of the dam has been approved in violation of Ethiopian law and various international conventions and contravenes the standards set by the independent World Commission on Dams.
Sign the petition to Stop Gibe 3 now or take part in the Dublin photo stunt this coming Monday.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Tax Dodging Undermining Irish Aid
Have a look at Christian Aid Ireland's latest report Tax of Life, which highlights how tax dodging by multinational companies undermines the development of countries that Irish Aid supports.
Christian Aid has called on the Irish government to take action to address this massive loss of tax by;
Christian Aid has called on the Irish government to take action to address this massive loss of tax by;
- Supporting the introduction of binding country by country reporting standards for multinational companies
- Examining policy coherence between Irish Aid and the Department of Finance
- Moving forward the goal of establishing a truly multilateral agreement for the automatic exchange of tax information
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Irish Unemployment
Figures released today by the OECD, show that Ireland has the third highest rate of unemployment within the block. Lower than only Spain and Slovakia, Ireland's rate now stands at 13.2%.
That translates into nearly a tripling of the unemployment rate in just 3 years and is considerably higher than the OECD area rate of 8.7%.
With government machinations to prop up the banking industry being published on a daily basis, it would be a welcome change to hear what nascent plans if any are in place to address the daily struggle that over 13% of the country is now facing.
That translates into nearly a tripling of the unemployment rate in just 3 years and is considerably higher than the OECD area rate of 8.7%.
With government machinations to prop up the banking industry being published on a daily basis, it would be a welcome change to hear what nascent plans if any are in place to address the daily struggle that over 13% of the country is now facing.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Today's the Day for Clegg
Coalition governments have become the norm in Ireland. It is always known, regardless of what politicians say prior to an election, which parties are likely to pair off after the votes have been counted. There have been no surprises in recent history.
However, the situation in the UK is quite different. For decades, the political landscape has been dominated by either the Conservatives or Labour - neither party ever being forced to form an official coalition in order to gain an overall majority. The Liberal Democrats on the other hand have always been a minority voice who have existed perpetually in opposition. Now though, they are in the unique position of being able to decide, within reason, which of the established parties forms the next government.
As a result, both the Conservatives and Labour are offering concessions to the Liberal Democrats, but the key issue on the table is electoral reform. Nick Clegg must realise that true electoral reform - the kind that will embolden the political aspirations of his party - would be suicide for the Conservatives. Whether is be alternative voting or proportional representation, the Conservative party would suffer the most in future elections whereas Labour and the Liberal Democrats would benefit dramatically.
Mr Clegg has stated since the beginning of this campaign that he intends to assiduously respect the wish of the British electorate. It could be argued that to do so he must go into government with the Conservatives who secured the most seats in the 2010 election. Alternatively it could be suggested that if he truly wants to respect the will of the people, then he must do everything in his power to ensure that the political system is designed to realise that will.
If the Liberal Democrats side with the Conservatives they will be accused of abandoning some of their core principles but if they opt for Labour, many pundits will criticise them for propping up a party that much of the UK does not wish to see retain power. Either way, they will be lambasted by one side. The question that the Liberal Democrats have to ask themsevles is whether they are willing to suffer for the good of the people that they purport to represent or just suffer for their chance in power.
However, the situation in the UK is quite different. For decades, the political landscape has been dominated by either the Conservatives or Labour - neither party ever being forced to form an official coalition in order to gain an overall majority. The Liberal Democrats on the other hand have always been a minority voice who have existed perpetually in opposition. Now though, they are in the unique position of being able to decide, within reason, which of the established parties forms the next government.
As a result, both the Conservatives and Labour are offering concessions to the Liberal Democrats, but the key issue on the table is electoral reform. Nick Clegg must realise that true electoral reform - the kind that will embolden the political aspirations of his party - would be suicide for the Conservatives. Whether is be alternative voting or proportional representation, the Conservative party would suffer the most in future elections whereas Labour and the Liberal Democrats would benefit dramatically.
Mr Clegg has stated since the beginning of this campaign that he intends to assiduously respect the wish of the British electorate. It could be argued that to do so he must go into government with the Conservatives who secured the most seats in the 2010 election. Alternatively it could be suggested that if he truly wants to respect the will of the people, then he must do everything in his power to ensure that the political system is designed to realise that will.
If the Liberal Democrats side with the Conservatives they will be accused of abandoning some of their core principles but if they opt for Labour, many pundits will criticise them for propping up a party that much of the UK does not wish to see retain power. Either way, they will be lambasted by one side. The question that the Liberal Democrats have to ask themsevles is whether they are willing to suffer for the good of the people that they purport to represent or just suffer for their chance in power.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Greek Protests
Not to trivialise the civil unrest currently bringing strife to the streets of Greece, but it is worth highlighting one protestor's call during the riots;
We are not Ireland. We do not sacrifice ourselves for the rich
What will it take to push Irish people on to the streets?
Friday, April 30, 2010
CRH and Israel's Wall
Next Tuesday (05/05/10), the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign is organising a boycott/divestment at the CRH Annual General Meeting being held in the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire.
The group is calling on CRH to cease its involvement with Israel's West Bank Wall, which they have labelled an Apartheid wall, and which has been internationally condemned.
Take part or find out more here.
The group is calling on CRH to cease its involvement with Israel's West Bank Wall, which they have labelled an Apartheid wall, and which has been internationally condemned.
Take part or find out more here.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Oxfam Launches Climate Financing Action
Oxfam Ireland is asking campaigners to urge the Taoiseach and the Minister for the Environment to ensure that climate financing is new money.
Ireland has committed €100 million, approximately €33 million per year, in fast-track money to support developing countries cope with the devastating effects of the changing climate. Oxfam Ireland is calling for this money to be separate from our existing aid commitment to reach 0.7% of national income by 2015.
To join the call, you can take action here.
Ireland has committed €100 million, approximately €33 million per year, in fast-track money to support developing countries cope with the devastating effects of the changing climate. Oxfam Ireland is calling for this money to be separate from our existing aid commitment to reach 0.7% of national income by 2015.
To join the call, you can take action here.
Water Tax
There is growing resistance to the imposition of water charges on homes in Ireland. It would seem sensible to tax such an essential a resource in order to ensure it is protected and sustained for future generations. However, there are some key arguments against the latest government proposal to do so;
There are no plans in place as yet that the tax collected from these charges would be earmarked for the improvement of Ireland's moribund water infrastructure. It is reasonable to assume that the moneys collected would simply go into the general state coffers. If the government is genuinely serious about conserving water, then it needs to dramatically invest in a system which allows nearly half the treated water in many local authorities to be lost through broken pipes.
Regarding the public's attitude to water conservation, I believe that if you hit people's pockets, they tend to adjust their behaviour accordingly. However, there is some credence in the supposition that if investment in the infrastructure is accompanied by a national educational campaign the same results could be yielded. This option is less attractive to those in power however, as it does not facilitate immediate results and is quite costly.
Another point of contention is that taxation of our national resource is an incremental step towards the privatisation of water. Whether this is fact or fantasy, it is worth bearing in mind as the people's water service should always be maintained by the people's representatives. Privatisation will not lead to greater efficiency - it would simply solidify a charge and instill a profit driven management of a national and natural resource.
I imagine the debate surrounding water taxation is bound to be controversial and one that will be hotly contested in the coming months.
There are no plans in place as yet that the tax collected from these charges would be earmarked for the improvement of Ireland's moribund water infrastructure. It is reasonable to assume that the moneys collected would simply go into the general state coffers. If the government is genuinely serious about conserving water, then it needs to dramatically invest in a system which allows nearly half the treated water in many local authorities to be lost through broken pipes.
Regarding the public's attitude to water conservation, I believe that if you hit people's pockets, they tend to adjust their behaviour accordingly. However, there is some credence in the supposition that if investment in the infrastructure is accompanied by a national educational campaign the same results could be yielded. This option is less attractive to those in power however, as it does not facilitate immediate results and is quite costly.
Another point of contention is that taxation of our national resource is an incremental step towards the privatisation of water. Whether this is fact or fantasy, it is worth bearing in mind as the people's water service should always be maintained by the people's representatives. Privatisation will not lead to greater efficiency - it would simply solidify a charge and instill a profit driven management of a national and natural resource.
I imagine the debate surrounding water taxation is bound to be controversial and one that will be hotly contested in the coming months.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
World People's Conference on Climate Change
The People's Agreement arrived at in Bolivia last week is well worth a read and contains some bold statements such as;
The corporations and governments of the so-called “developed” countries, in complicity with a segment of the scientific community, have led us to discuss climate change as a problem limited to the rise in temperature without questioning the cause, which is the capitalist system.
Have a read here.
The corporations and governments of the so-called “developed” countries, in complicity with a segment of the scientific community, have led us to discuss climate change as a problem limited to the rise in temperature without questioning the cause, which is the capitalist system.
Have a read here.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Don't Give Up on Haiti
Haiti's largest creditor, the Inter-American Development Bank, announced last month that it would cancel US$ 479 million owed to it by Haiti. Even if it is well overdue, this cancellation is great news.
Unfortunately though, the IMF still has not cancelled the US $271 million owed to it by Haiti despite public outcry. More pressure needs to be put on the Irish Minister for Finance and on the Canadian Government (who represent Ireland at the executive board of the IMF) to cancel the debt immediately and unconditionally.
Haiti may have dropped from the headlines but its debt has not. Email the Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty (jflaherty@fin.gc.ca) and urge him to ensure Haiti's debt is fully and unconditionally cancelled. Please CC Minister Lenihan (minister@finance.gov.ie), Minister Martin (minister@dfa.ie) and Minister Power (peter.power@dfa.ie) when you send your email.
Unfortunately though, the IMF still has not cancelled the US $271 million owed to it by Haiti despite public outcry. More pressure needs to be put on the Irish Minister for Finance and on the Canadian Government (who represent Ireland at the executive board of the IMF) to cancel the debt immediately and unconditionally.
Haiti may have dropped from the headlines but its debt has not. Email the Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty (jflaherty@fin.gc.ca) and urge him to ensure Haiti's debt is fully and unconditionally cancelled. Please CC Minister Lenihan (minister@finance.gov.ie), Minister Martin (minister@dfa.ie) and Minister Power (peter.power@dfa.ie) when you send your email.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Australia Denies Asylum
Earlier this month, the Australian government made the appalling move of suspending all asylum applications by people from Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Those continuing to arrive are being held at detention centres but are being denied the right to apply for asylum. Instead, the Australian government has indicated that it will simply review the situation for Sri Lanks after three months and for Afghans after six.
Today, the UNHCR criticised the government for refusing to consider alternatives to detention for asylum seekers. The UN agency highlighted the lack of judicial oversight and the geographic isolation of the detention centres as serious concerns.
There is substantial evidence that unnecessary prolonged detention, in such isolated surroundings, can result in serious negative maladies for the physical and mental health of detainees. Such detrimental effects are worsened by the fact that many asylum seekers have been victims of torture before taking the decision to flee their homelands.
The pernicious actions of the Australian government need to be reversed and the UNHCR should be expressing more than disappointment with the progress that has been made so far from discussions between both parties. The peoples of Sri Lanka and Afghanistan have greatly suffered under recent war time conditions and those fleeing should not be punished further.
Today, the UNHCR criticised the government for refusing to consider alternatives to detention for asylum seekers. The UN agency highlighted the lack of judicial oversight and the geographic isolation of the detention centres as serious concerns.
There is substantial evidence that unnecessary prolonged detention, in such isolated surroundings, can result in serious negative maladies for the physical and mental health of detainees. Such detrimental effects are worsened by the fact that many asylum seekers have been victims of torture before taking the decision to flee their homelands.
The pernicious actions of the Australian government need to be reversed and the UNHCR should be expressing more than disappointment with the progress that has been made so far from discussions between both parties. The peoples of Sri Lanka and Afghanistan have greatly suffered under recent war time conditions and those fleeing should not be punished further.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
And we're back...
Despite the fact that more than 400,000 people in this country are currently on the live register, and in the face of Labour Party opposition, the Dáil voted earlier this month in favour of an indulgent 2 week Easter break.
Thankfully, the Dáil resumes today!
Thankfully, the Dáil resumes today!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
The Airplot Design Contest
GREENPEACE UK's Airplot Design Competition is coming to an end this month.
Their unique competition designed to prevent the construction of a new runway at Heathrow seems to have captured the imagination of tens of thousands of campaigners over in the UK.
Here's the competition/campaign video;
Their unique competition designed to prevent the construction of a new runway at Heathrow seems to have captured the imagination of tens of thousands of campaigners over in the UK.
Here's the competition/campaign video;
Design a fortress to stop the third runway from Greenpeace UK on Vimeo.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
March and Rally in memory of Toyosi Shitta-Bey
This Saturday there will be a march to honour the memory of Toyosi Shitta-Bey who recently died in tragic circumstances.
His family and friends have organised this march to call on communities to unite against racism.
Those attending will be meeting at 2PM at the Garden of Remembrance, Parnell Square, Dublin 1.
His family and friends have organised this march to call on communities to unite against racism.
Those attending will be meeting at 2PM at the Garden of Remembrance, Parnell Square, Dublin 1.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Corporate Social Responsibility and Tax Justice
Last night I attended a very interesting lecture at Trinity College Dublin, entitled A Fairer Global Tax System: Developing World and National Perspectives. Given by David McNair (Christian Aid) and Sheila Killian (University of Limerick, the most engaging element was when the speakers were faced with some difficult questions from those in attendance. Needless to say, the answers were typical of such experienced speakers and quite insightful. For those interested in learning more about the subject discussed, some materials are available on the college website.
Earlier in the lecture however, Ms Killian briefly touched on the subject of tax justice and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). I would have welcomed a more in-depth discussion of this as for years CSR has been the battlefield of environmentalists and human rights activists who have tried (with some success) to ensure that multinational companies act in a socially and environmentally responsible manner with regard to local communities.
If tenets of tax justice were ingrained into CSR policies, the unfair resource flow from 'South' to 'North' would be hampered and governments in the developing world would have a greater amount of income to spend on health, education and other essential services. Furthermore, when the business community takes positive action world leaders tend to follow suit and cement such moves through various international treaties. By adopting (albeit voluntary) tax justice mechanisms to prevent the immoral use of tax havens and transfer pricing as part or their CSR policies, multinationals could give governments the push they need to work towards a fair global tax system.
However, given the discussion last night of the amounts of money generated by a manipulation of tax systems, it will probably be a long and difficult fight to encourage/force multinationals and certain governments to play fair.
Earlier in the lecture however, Ms Killian briefly touched on the subject of tax justice and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). I would have welcomed a more in-depth discussion of this as for years CSR has been the battlefield of environmentalists and human rights activists who have tried (with some success) to ensure that multinational companies act in a socially and environmentally responsible manner with regard to local communities.
If tenets of tax justice were ingrained into CSR policies, the unfair resource flow from 'South' to 'North' would be hampered and governments in the developing world would have a greater amount of income to spend on health, education and other essential services. Furthermore, when the business community takes positive action world leaders tend to follow suit and cement such moves through various international treaties. By adopting (albeit voluntary) tax justice mechanisms to prevent the immoral use of tax havens and transfer pricing as part or their CSR policies, multinationals could give governments the push they need to work towards a fair global tax system.
However, given the discussion last night of the amounts of money generated by a manipulation of tax systems, it will probably be a long and difficult fight to encourage/force multinationals and certain governments to play fair.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Tax Not Insurance
The Robin Hood Tax campaign is capturing the imagination of tens of thousands of people in the UK. Importantly, the main political parties have also started engaging - each making their own unique sounds.
While this is very welcome and a great tribute to all those involved in the campaign, a close watch needs to be maintained to ensure that bad policy is not made on the back of a good campaign. For example the Tories have suggested recently that they would apply a unilateral bank levy (in the absence of a global agreement) but would fashion it as a type of insurance scheme.
The idea of using any money raised from such a levy as insurance fails to address the grossly under regulated and risk obsessed financial sector. Indeed the very existence of such insurance could encourage even more dangerous trading within the banking sector rather than throw a little sand into the wheels of the market - no mere peccadillo!
Furthermore, the proposed levy will also not raise the much needed funds that could be used to support the poorest people both in the UK (surely a vote generator) and around the world. Labour are slightly more in tune to this need and the Liberal Democrats are openly supportive but campaigners have no opportunity to rest on their laurels.
The robin hood tax should not be seen by governments as a ceiling - it is a sound proposal thats time has come and one that is the antithesis of insipid legislation.
While this is very welcome and a great tribute to all those involved in the campaign, a close watch needs to be maintained to ensure that bad policy is not made on the back of a good campaign. For example the Tories have suggested recently that they would apply a unilateral bank levy (in the absence of a global agreement) but would fashion it as a type of insurance scheme.
The idea of using any money raised from such a levy as insurance fails to address the grossly under regulated and risk obsessed financial sector. Indeed the very existence of such insurance could encourage even more dangerous trading within the banking sector rather than throw a little sand into the wheels of the market - no mere peccadillo!
Furthermore, the proposed levy will also not raise the much needed funds that could be used to support the poorest people both in the UK (surely a vote generator) and around the world. Labour are slightly more in tune to this need and the Liberal Democrats are openly supportive but campaigners have no opportunity to rest on their laurels.
The robin hood tax should not be seen by governments as a ceiling - it is a sound proposal thats time has come and one that is the antithesis of insipid legislation.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Earth Hour
This Saturday (27/03/2010) will see hundreds of millions of people around the world show their support once again for climate action by turning their lights off for one hour in recognition of Earth Hour.
Update - Google Stops Censoring
Surprisingly, Google has followed through with its threat to stop self-censorship in China - in violation of a written agreement (though not contractual) it had with the Chinese government.
This does not mean that internet users in China will suddenly gain unrestricted access but rather than the burden now falls on the Chinese state to censor searches.
The ball is most certainly in China's court and it will be interesting to see how it reacts to this move from the internet giant...
This does not mean that internet users in China will suddenly gain unrestricted access but rather than the burden now falls on the Chinese state to censor searches.
The ball is most certainly in China's court and it will be interesting to see how it reacts to this move from the internet giant...
Monday, March 15, 2010
Blasphemy in Ireland Challenged
From the beginning of 2010, a ridiculous and anachronistic piece of legislation came into effect in Ireland which made blasphemy a crime punishable by a fine of up to €25,000.
By publishing or uttering any matter that is deemed grossly abusive or insulting to matters sacred by any religion and thereby causing intentional outrage among a substantial number of adherents of that religion, an individual will fall foul of the law. Despite this, groups such as Atheist Ireland sought to challenge the law and were able to easily highlight its ineffectiveness.
Now, the Minister for Justice, Dermot Ahern, has announced that he is proposing a referendum this Autumn to remove the offence of blasphemy from the Irish Constitution in its entirety. As with most referendums in Ireland that have some association with religious beliefs, I am sure that it will be a divisive one. However, it will give Ireland a chance to show itself to be a modern, pluralist society. I hope the people of Ireland grasp the opportunity.
By publishing or uttering any matter that is deemed grossly abusive or insulting to matters sacred by any religion and thereby causing intentional outrage among a substantial number of adherents of that religion, an individual will fall foul of the law. Despite this, groups such as Atheist Ireland sought to challenge the law and were able to easily highlight its ineffectiveness.
Now, the Minister for Justice, Dermot Ahern, has announced that he is proposing a referendum this Autumn to remove the offence of blasphemy from the Irish Constitution in its entirety. As with most referendums in Ireland that have some association with religious beliefs, I am sure that it will be a divisive one. However, it will give Ireland a chance to show itself to be a modern, pluralist society. I hope the people of Ireland grasp the opportunity.
Friday, March 5, 2010
The Language of Action
It is not often that I read an opinion piece by a Minister in the Irish Government and appreciate the intended sentiment. However, a recent article by Micheál Martin in the New York Times is worthy of note due to the language deliberately employed by the Minister.
In an otherwise average piece of writing, some key lines stood out when Minister Martin spoke of Gaza and the ongoing devastating impacts that Operation Cast Lead has resulted in;
- I view the current conditions prevailing for the ordinary population as inhuman and utterly unacceptable, in terms of accepted international standards of human rights.
- I genuinely believe that the medieval siege conditions being imposed on the people of Gaza are unacceptable.
- The people of Gaza are justifiably proud of their heritage...(and) deserve the opportunity to have a future in line with their heritage.
Emotive language is all well and good but too often is let down by subsequent inaction. However, by directly referencing human rights and the heritage of the people of Gaza, Minister Martin is challenging the actions of Israel and its claim to certain occupied lands. It is a welcome move and one that desperately needs to be followed by action - at the very least by other European states.
Finally, it should be pointed out that Minister Martin did also call for the release of Gilad Shalit, the Israeli soldier currently enduring his fourth year of captivity. This is as important an issue as the ones already highlighted and should be addressed with similar speed.
In an otherwise average piece of writing, some key lines stood out when Minister Martin spoke of Gaza and the ongoing devastating impacts that Operation Cast Lead has resulted in;
- I view the current conditions prevailing for the ordinary population as inhuman and utterly unacceptable, in terms of accepted international standards of human rights.
- I genuinely believe that the medieval siege conditions being imposed on the people of Gaza are unacceptable.
- The people of Gaza are justifiably proud of their heritage...(and) deserve the opportunity to have a future in line with their heritage.
Emotive language is all well and good but too often is let down by subsequent inaction. However, by directly referencing human rights and the heritage of the people of Gaza, Minister Martin is challenging the actions of Israel and its claim to certain occupied lands. It is a welcome move and one that desperately needs to be followed by action - at the very least by other European states.
Finally, it should be pointed out that Minister Martin did also call for the release of Gilad Shalit, the Israeli soldier currently enduring his fourth year of captivity. This is as important an issue as the ones already highlighted and should be addressed with similar speed.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Haiti's Debt Still Not Cancelled
Despite recent media reports, Haiti's debt still is not cancelled. Although the G7 has announced that they will cancel the debts due to them from Haiti, the vast bulk of Haiti's debt is owed to international financial institutions (IFIs) such as the Inter-American Development Bank, the IMF and the World Bank.
Ireland is implicated in the failure to cancel Haiti's debt in its entirety through its membership of the IMF and the World Bank. However, Canada represents Ireland's views at the executive boards of these institutions and has still not insisted that the IFIs cancel Haiti's debt.
Debt and Development Coalition Ireland (DDCI) are calling on people to pressure the Irish and Canadian governments so that Haiti's debt can be cancelled immediately and unconditionally.
Please send the below text (amended as you wish) to the Canadian Minister for Finance (jflaherty@fin.gc.ca) and the Canadian Minister for Foreign Affairs (lawrence.cannon@international.gc.ca) and copy Brian Lenihan (minister@finance.gov.ie), Micheál Martin (minister@dfa.ie) and Peter Power (peter.power@dfa.ie);
Dear Minister Flaherty and Minister Cannon
I am writing to you from my country, Ireland, to express my deep concern about Haiti's unjust debt situation. The Haitian people deserve a debt-free future, not least because much of their debt was accumulated on an illegitimate basis.
Canada, as chair of the constituencies at the World Bank and IMF which represent Ireland, plays a critical role in ensuring Ireland's voice is heard in these institutions. Ireland has a policy of supporting debt cancellation for the most impoverished countries in the world. The Irish government, Irish parliamentarians and the people of Ireland have recently expressed very strong support for the immediate cancellation of Haiti's debts.
Your recent announcement at the G7 Finance Ministers Summit in support of debt cancellation for Haiti is very welcome. Now we must see unconditional, full debt cancellation for Haiti happen in reality.
I urge you to strongly support total, immediate and unconditional debt cancellation for Haiti at the Executive Boards of the World Bank and IMF (US$ 205 million) in addition to the cancellation of the most recent loan of US$ 102 million extended to Haiti by the IMF. I also urge you to use your influence as a member of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to ensure immediate cancellation of the sizeable debt of US$ 418 million outstanding to the IDB from Haiti.
Haiti needs a debt free start and I urge you to urgently act to ensure this happens now.
Yours sincerely,
[INSERT YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS]
(cc Irish Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan T.D; Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin T.D; Irish Minister for State for Overseas Development Peter Power T.D)
Ireland is implicated in the failure to cancel Haiti's debt in its entirety through its membership of the IMF and the World Bank. However, Canada represents Ireland's views at the executive boards of these institutions and has still not insisted that the IFIs cancel Haiti's debt.
Debt and Development Coalition Ireland (DDCI) are calling on people to pressure the Irish and Canadian governments so that Haiti's debt can be cancelled immediately and unconditionally.
Please send the below text (amended as you wish) to the Canadian Minister for Finance (jflaherty@fin.gc.ca) and the Canadian Minister for Foreign Affairs (lawrence.cannon@international.gc.ca) and copy Brian Lenihan (minister@finance.gov.ie), Micheál Martin (minister@dfa.ie) and Peter Power (peter.power@dfa.ie);
Dear Minister Flaherty and Minister Cannon
I am writing to you from my country, Ireland, to express my deep concern about Haiti's unjust debt situation. The Haitian people deserve a debt-free future, not least because much of their debt was accumulated on an illegitimate basis.
Canada, as chair of the constituencies at the World Bank and IMF which represent Ireland, plays a critical role in ensuring Ireland's voice is heard in these institutions. Ireland has a policy of supporting debt cancellation for the most impoverished countries in the world. The Irish government, Irish parliamentarians and the people of Ireland have recently expressed very strong support for the immediate cancellation of Haiti's debts.
Your recent announcement at the G7 Finance Ministers Summit in support of debt cancellation for Haiti is very welcome. Now we must see unconditional, full debt cancellation for Haiti happen in reality.
I urge you to strongly support total, immediate and unconditional debt cancellation for Haiti at the Executive Boards of the World Bank and IMF (US$ 205 million) in addition to the cancellation of the most recent loan of US$ 102 million extended to Haiti by the IMF. I also urge you to use your influence as a member of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to ensure immediate cancellation of the sizeable debt of US$ 418 million outstanding to the IDB from Haiti.
Haiti needs a debt free start and I urge you to urgently act to ensure this happens now.
Yours sincerely,
[INSERT YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS]
(cc Irish Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan T.D; Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin T.D; Irish Minister for State for Overseas Development Peter Power T.D)
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Good Aid - Bad News
A BBC investigation has today revealed that millions of dollars intended for victims of the Ethiopian famine of 1984-1985 were instead used by rebel forces to acquire weapons. The investigation claims that €93 million ended up in rebel hands with some given directly to Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, who was one of the leaders of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) at the time. If Overseas Aid does not reach its intended recipients, it makes no real difference where it eventually ends up. If a corrupt official, a criminal gang or a freedom fighter comes into possession of such money, then delivery of the aid has categorically failed.
Unfortunately, this investigation comes at a time when the OECD (Organisation for Economic Development and Co-Operation) has just revealed that development aid is falling €21 billion short of promises made in 2005. This colossal amount could pay for every child in the world today to go to school - to make just one calculation.
France, Germany, Austria, Portugal and Greece are failing to reach the commitment made by rich countries in 2005 to give a minimum of 0.51% of their national income in 2010 to developing nations. Investigations such as the one carried out by the BBC and the seasonal criticism of Overseas AID - most recently by Dambisa Moyo - makes it all the more difficult to focus public pressure on such countries and ensure that aid promises are kept. However, the problem is not that there is persistent in-depth analyses of the effectiveness of Overseas Aid by those who wish to discredit the system, but rather that there is often a lack of push back by NGOs and other relevant players.
Overseas Aid is vital and it works. Improvements can always be made but the current effectiveness needs to be underlined, bolded and highlighted. There should be no chip on anyone's shoulder about justifying the use of every cent of Overseas Aid and more importantly, the public need to be shown how it helps to make a massive difference in the lives of millions of the most vulnerable people around the world. Quite simply, we need some good aid stories.
Unfortunately, this investigation comes at a time when the OECD (Organisation for Economic Development and Co-Operation) has just revealed that development aid is falling €21 billion short of promises made in 2005. This colossal amount could pay for every child in the world today to go to school - to make just one calculation.
France, Germany, Austria, Portugal and Greece are failing to reach the commitment made by rich countries in 2005 to give a minimum of 0.51% of their national income in 2010 to developing nations. Investigations such as the one carried out by the BBC and the seasonal criticism of Overseas AID - most recently by Dambisa Moyo - makes it all the more difficult to focus public pressure on such countries and ensure that aid promises are kept. However, the problem is not that there is persistent in-depth analyses of the effectiveness of Overseas Aid by those who wish to discredit the system, but rather that there is often a lack of push back by NGOs and other relevant players.
Overseas Aid is vital and it works. Improvements can always be made but the current effectiveness needs to be underlined, bolded and highlighted. There should be no chip on anyone's shoulder about justifying the use of every cent of Overseas Aid and more importantly, the public need to be shown how it helps to make a massive difference in the lives of millions of the most vulnerable people around the world. Quite simply, we need some good aid stories.
Friday, February 26, 2010
UPDATE: West Bank Settlement Goods
In a case brought by German drinks company Brita, the European Court of Justice has ruled that Israeli goods made in Jewish settlements (which are illegal under international law) cannot be considered Israeli and benefit from a trade deal that gives Israel preferential access to EU markets.
Israel has yet to comment but even if state authorities decide to exert political pressure on their European counterparts, it should be noted that European Court of Justice rulings are binding on member states.
Israel has yet to comment but even if state authorities decide to exert political pressure on their European counterparts, it should be noted that European Court of Justice rulings are binding on member states.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Censorship and the Search Engine
Officials from China and internet giant Google met this week to resume talks about Google’s continued operation in the country. This has prompted a flurry of debate and support from many who sycophantically laud Google as some sort of defender of human rights and bastion of free speech.
Let’s be clear about do not evil Google. When Google chose to commence operations in China, it did so with full knowledge of the level of state censorship that it would have to provide its online search engine services under. From the very beginning, terms such as human rights and genocide were banned and Google users in China could not search for information associated with the date of the Tiananmen Square massacre. Furthermore and as was reported earlier this year, Google can block entire websites that are deemed offensive to the Chinese Government and will remove web addresses (or specific pages within sites) that are known to carry so-called dangerous content. Google was originally happy with this level of self-censorship.
Then Google had a change of heart. It announced that it would cease operating in China due to cyber attacks (that were potentially state sponsored) aimed at collecting information on Chinese human rights activists. Though very serious allegations, such clandestine online activity is neither new nor surprising in China and Google was patently aware of the mine field it arrogantly chose to set up business in from day one. So perhaps the real reason that Google threatened to pull out of China is to do more with the fact that the internet giant is finding it difficult to compete with Baidu, a Chinese search engine that dominates the fast growing internet market which Google sought to originally exploit.
I would love to be wrong and to believe that Google has made an ethical rather than an economic decision – but I sincerely doubt that I am. Human Rights Watch previously praised the decision taken by Google and called on other companies to follow suit. It will be interesting to see what such an organisation, which is deserving of tremendous respect and trust, will do if the officials from China and Google manage to patch up their differences and continue to jointly enforce censorship in China.
Let’s be clear about do not evil Google. When Google chose to commence operations in China, it did so with full knowledge of the level of state censorship that it would have to provide its online search engine services under. From the very beginning, terms such as human rights and genocide were banned and Google users in China could not search for information associated with the date of the Tiananmen Square massacre. Furthermore and as was reported earlier this year, Google can block entire websites that are deemed offensive to the Chinese Government and will remove web addresses (or specific pages within sites) that are known to carry so-called dangerous content. Google was originally happy with this level of self-censorship.
Then Google had a change of heart. It announced that it would cease operating in China due to cyber attacks (that were potentially state sponsored) aimed at collecting information on Chinese human rights activists. Though very serious allegations, such clandestine online activity is neither new nor surprising in China and Google was patently aware of the mine field it arrogantly chose to set up business in from day one. So perhaps the real reason that Google threatened to pull out of China is to do more with the fact that the internet giant is finding it difficult to compete with Baidu, a Chinese search engine that dominates the fast growing internet market which Google sought to originally exploit.
I would love to be wrong and to believe that Google has made an ethical rather than an economic decision – but I sincerely doubt that I am. Human Rights Watch previously praised the decision taken by Google and called on other companies to follow suit. It will be interesting to see what such an organisation, which is deserving of tremendous respect and trust, will do if the officials from China and Google manage to patch up their differences and continue to jointly enforce censorship in China.
Monday, February 22, 2010
THE BIG SWAP
It's that time of year again - Fairtrade Fortnight.
This years theme is THE BIG SWAP and we are being asked to swap our usual coffee, tea, chocolate, ice-cream etc. for Fairtrade versions. To find out more about THE BIG SWAP, visit Fairtrade Mark Ireland.
For those who want to get more involved, Oxfam Ireland is running a Fairtrade Fortnight campaign. With less that 2% of tea sold in Ireland being Fairtrade, it's time the big companies had pressure put on them to make the switch. Join the call for Lyons and Barry's Tea to work towards achieving Fairtrade certification now.
Also, if Lyons' Tea reply and explain how they are part of the Rainforest Alliance initiative, remember that Fairtrade is the only independent certification system that guarantees a fair deal for farmers in developing countries.
This years theme is THE BIG SWAP and we are being asked to swap our usual coffee, tea, chocolate, ice-cream etc. for Fairtrade versions. To find out more about THE BIG SWAP, visit Fairtrade Mark Ireland.
For those who want to get more involved, Oxfam Ireland is running a Fairtrade Fortnight campaign. With less that 2% of tea sold in Ireland being Fairtrade, it's time the big companies had pressure put on them to make the switch. Join the call for Lyons and Barry's Tea to work towards achieving Fairtrade certification now.
Also, if Lyons' Tea reply and explain how they are part of the Rainforest Alliance initiative, remember that Fairtrade is the only independent certification system that guarantees a fair deal for farmers in developing countries.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
The Crying Dutchman Resigns
Yvo de Boer, UNFCCC Executive Secretary, has today resigned from his role as head of the UN climate change body.
De Boer, who famously and perhaps unfairly earned the nickname the crying Dutchman when he broke down in tears at the Bali UN climate conference, has to be regarded as one of the world's most experienced climate change negotiators.
Moving on to greener pastures, de Boer is expected to join accountancy firm KPMG as a consultant on climate and sustainability issues. It is always cause for concern when someone leaves a high powered political position to move into the commercial sector as it is hard to know what influence those individuals can wield for their new employers and clients.
Perhaps de Boer will work with progressive business interests in addressing climate change in the private sphere and become part of the growing commercial contingent that seek to encourage real action in the area. Alternatively, his services could be utilised for the benefit of investors seeking to profit from a changing world where carbon becomes a hugely valuable traded commodity and the use and ownership of land (particularly in the developing world) fails to benefit local communities.
As the focus now turns to who will replace de Boer, it will be just as interesting to see what his future holds.
De Boer, who famously and perhaps unfairly earned the nickname the crying Dutchman when he broke down in tears at the Bali UN climate conference, has to be regarded as one of the world's most experienced climate change negotiators.
Moving on to greener pastures, de Boer is expected to join accountancy firm KPMG as a consultant on climate and sustainability issues. It is always cause for concern when someone leaves a high powered political position to move into the commercial sector as it is hard to know what influence those individuals can wield for their new employers and clients.
Perhaps de Boer will work with progressive business interests in addressing climate change in the private sphere and become part of the growing commercial contingent that seek to encourage real action in the area. Alternatively, his services could be utilised for the benefit of investors seeking to profit from a changing world where carbon becomes a hugely valuable traded commodity and the use and ownership of land (particularly in the developing world) fails to benefit local communities.
As the focus now turns to who will replace de Boer, it will be just as interesting to see what his future holds.
Monday, February 15, 2010
€2 Billion - Loose Change
Last week, Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance, Brian Lenihan, to clarify Ireland's commitment as part of the G-20 to contibute to a new fund led by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Here is the full text from the Parliamentary Debates;
Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the Irish commitment at a recent meeting of the G20 to contribute to a special fund addressed to the needs of indebted countries; if the fund is to be led by the International Monetary Fund; if so, the guiding principles that exists for the fund; and if they will include debt cancellation.
Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan): I understand the Deputy is referring to the International Monetary Fund’s New Arrangements to Borrow (NAB) which has not, however, been designed to deal with debt cancellation. The NAB is essentially a set of credit arrangements between the IMF and member countries and institutions to provide supplementary resources to the IMF to forestall or cope with an impairment of the international monetary system or to deal with an exceptional situation that poses a threat to the stability of that system. Arrangements for a new and expanded NAB are currently under negotiation.
In April 2009, G20 Leaders agreed to increase the resources available to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) by up to USD500bn, thereby tripling the total pre-crisis lending resources of the IMF to USD750, to support growth in emerging market and developing countries. This agreement was endorsed by the International Monetary and Financial Committee, the European Council and Ecofin Ministers. The increase in IMF resources is to be made in two steps: (i) through the immediate provision of bilateral loans up to USD250bn from IMF member countries to the IMF; and (ii) by subsequently rolling over these loans and making additional provision into an expanded and more flexible New Arrangements to Borrow NAB), increased by up to USD500 bn.
At the Spring Council 2009, the EU agreed to provide temporary bilateral loans of €75bn to the IMF. Ireland agreed to provide its share - a loan facility of €1.3bn - based on Ireland’s new IMF quota. On 17 September 2009, EU Heads of State agreed to further increase support to the IMF by increasing the €75bn to €125bn (approx USD175bn) by rolling over EU bilateral loans into the new NAB and making further financial commitments to NAB. The result of this agreement for Ireland is that our share of the new and expanded NAB (based on Ireland’s IMF quota) would be approximately €2bn, inclusive of Ireland’s bilateral loan of €1.3bn.
On 13 January 2010, the Government decided in principle to approve Ireland’s participation in the IMF’s New Arrangements to Borrow (NAB), for increasing IMF resources, and Ireland’s provision to the NAB of a loan facility of approximately €2bn, subject to agreement on terms and conditions. Like a number of EU countries, Ireland’s provision of the bilateral loan to the IMF and participation in NAB will be met using Central Bank resources. Legislative provision for the bilateral loan and Ireland’s participation in NAB will be required.
Some important questions now need to be addressed. How will the €2 billion (and indeed the fund in its entirety) be used and who will it be given to? Will the poorest countries be targeted or excluded? Will Ireland re-coup this money - when and how? When will the appropriate legislation be drafted?
Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the Irish commitment at a recent meeting of the G20 to contribute to a special fund addressed to the needs of indebted countries; if the fund is to be led by the International Monetary Fund; if so, the guiding principles that exists for the fund; and if they will include debt cancellation.
Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan): I understand the Deputy is referring to the International Monetary Fund’s New Arrangements to Borrow (NAB) which has not, however, been designed to deal with debt cancellation. The NAB is essentially a set of credit arrangements between the IMF and member countries and institutions to provide supplementary resources to the IMF to forestall or cope with an impairment of the international monetary system or to deal with an exceptional situation that poses a threat to the stability of that system. Arrangements for a new and expanded NAB are currently under negotiation.
In April 2009, G20 Leaders agreed to increase the resources available to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) by up to USD500bn, thereby tripling the total pre-crisis lending resources of the IMF to USD750, to support growth in emerging market and developing countries. This agreement was endorsed by the International Monetary and Financial Committee, the European Council and Ecofin Ministers. The increase in IMF resources is to be made in two steps: (i) through the immediate provision of bilateral loans up to USD250bn from IMF member countries to the IMF; and (ii) by subsequently rolling over these loans and making additional provision into an expanded and more flexible New Arrangements to Borrow NAB), increased by up to USD500 bn.
At the Spring Council 2009, the EU agreed to provide temporary bilateral loans of €75bn to the IMF. Ireland agreed to provide its share - a loan facility of €1.3bn - based on Ireland’s new IMF quota. On 17 September 2009, EU Heads of State agreed to further increase support to the IMF by increasing the €75bn to €125bn (approx USD175bn) by rolling over EU bilateral loans into the new NAB and making further financial commitments to NAB. The result of this agreement for Ireland is that our share of the new and expanded NAB (based on Ireland’s IMF quota) would be approximately €2bn, inclusive of Ireland’s bilateral loan of €1.3bn.
On 13 January 2010, the Government decided in principle to approve Ireland’s participation in the IMF’s New Arrangements to Borrow (NAB), for increasing IMF resources, and Ireland’s provision to the NAB of a loan facility of approximately €2bn, subject to agreement on terms and conditions. Like a number of EU countries, Ireland’s provision of the bilateral loan to the IMF and participation in NAB will be met using Central Bank resources. Legislative provision for the bilateral loan and Ireland’s participation in NAB will be required.
Some important questions now need to be addressed. How will the €2 billion (and indeed the fund in its entirety) be used and who will it be given to? Will the poorest countries be targeted or excluded? Will Ireland re-coup this money - when and how? When will the appropriate legislation be drafted?
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Robin Hood Tax Campaign Launched
A new campaign has been launched in the UK which has galvanised the support of a coalition of charities, trade unions, aid agencies and hundreds of economists.
Calling for a tax of 0.05% to be applied on international banking transactions, the Robin Hood tax could raise up to £250 billion per year. Ideally half the proceeds would remain in the country to address domestic problems and the other half would be spent on tackling global poverty and climate change.
Financial transaction taxes already exist in many countries but none are as bold as the proposed Robin Hood tax. However, some world leaders including Angela Merkel and Gordon Brown have expressed support for the proposed tax alongside philanthropists such as George Soros.
The organisations involved claim that the minute tax would not damage the sterling market or impact negatively on the business of traders and so should prove relatively palatable. The tax is also not designed to hit the pockets of the public - though ensuring that banks and financial institutions do not pass on the cost may be hard to regulate. In addition, this new innovative source of funding should not be seen as a mechanism to relieve rich countries of any existing or future aid promises which they are committed to.
The only negative that immediately jumps to mind when this new campaign is considered is that the tax does not address the problems of the unregulated capitalist market that caused the recent global economic crisis but rather simply purports to benefit from it on the premise of helping those trapped in poverty. But, baby steps first...
Calling for a tax of 0.05% to be applied on international banking transactions, the Robin Hood tax could raise up to £250 billion per year. Ideally half the proceeds would remain in the country to address domestic problems and the other half would be spent on tackling global poverty and climate change.
Financial transaction taxes already exist in many countries but none are as bold as the proposed Robin Hood tax. However, some world leaders including Angela Merkel and Gordon Brown have expressed support for the proposed tax alongside philanthropists such as George Soros.
The organisations involved claim that the minute tax would not damage the sterling market or impact negatively on the business of traders and so should prove relatively palatable. The tax is also not designed to hit the pockets of the public - though ensuring that banks and financial institutions do not pass on the cost may be hard to regulate. In addition, this new innovative source of funding should not be seen as a mechanism to relieve rich countries of any existing or future aid promises which they are committed to.
The only negative that immediately jumps to mind when this new campaign is considered is that the tax does not address the problems of the unregulated capitalist market that caused the recent global economic crisis but rather simply purports to benefit from it on the premise of helping those trapped in poverty. But, baby steps first...
Thursday, February 4, 2010
When Profits Mean Losses
Pharmaceutical companies probably feel that they receive an unfair level of negative attention from NGOs. By this stage, many big pharmaceutical companies may well have even developed acute victim complexes commensurate with the constant criticism they receive in relation to their policies on patents and access to life saving medicines.
However, with that criticism comes the odd flash of praise. For example, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) was lauded last year for its decision to reduce the price of medicines it supplies to the world's poorest countries and for investing some of its profits into health infrastructure in those countries. More demands were and have been put on GSK but the backing that the pharmaceutical giant received at the time from those in the development sector was genuine.
But the criticism must start once again - this time for the way in which GSK is attempting to maximise its profits. Despite the global economic crisis, and partly due to sales of vaccines in response to the H1N1 pandemic, GSK reported a pre tax profit of $13.81 billion for 2009. However that is not enough profit for GSK who have stressed that major cost reductions continue to be required. Interestingly, the difference in profit margins between 2008 and 2009 is roughly the same value as the cuts that GSK chose to make throughout 2009. Some would argue that the company is simply reducing waste and becoming more efficient. Others however will point out that the staff that GSK may choose to let go in the near future to cut costs, never benefited from the profit margins (and bonuses) that those making these decisions gained from, but most certainly contributed to their accumulation.
2009 was a good year for GSK but 2010 may be a very bad one for its staff.
However, with that criticism comes the odd flash of praise. For example, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) was lauded last year for its decision to reduce the price of medicines it supplies to the world's poorest countries and for investing some of its profits into health infrastructure in those countries. More demands were and have been put on GSK but the backing that the pharmaceutical giant received at the time from those in the development sector was genuine.
But the criticism must start once again - this time for the way in which GSK is attempting to maximise its profits. Despite the global economic crisis, and partly due to sales of vaccines in response to the H1N1 pandemic, GSK reported a pre tax profit of $13.81 billion for 2009. However that is not enough profit for GSK who have stressed that major cost reductions continue to be required. Interestingly, the difference in profit margins between 2008 and 2009 is roughly the same value as the cuts that GSK chose to make throughout 2009. Some would argue that the company is simply reducing waste and becoming more efficient. Others however will point out that the staff that GSK may choose to let go in the near future to cut costs, never benefited from the profit margins (and bonuses) that those making these decisions gained from, but most certainly contributed to their accumulation.
2009 was a good year for GSK but 2010 may be a very bad one for its staff.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
No Accountability - No Trust
Yesterday, the US public relations firm Edelman announced that Ireland was experiencing a crisis of trust. Out of 22 European countries surveyed, trust in governance and business in Ireland ranked lowest and overall, trust in Ireland across a variety of industries is below the global average. Such platitudes however are unsurprising to anyone currently living in Ireland. For there to be trust, there must be accountability and where is such accountability in governance and business in Ireland today?
To have an effective state operating with a mandate that is truly endorsed by the people, the state must have the capacity and desire to respond to the demands of an active citizenry. The Fianna Fáil dominated government of recent decades has led the country from a period of supposed boom to very real bust. Naturally, there was a global recession and Ireland was never going to be immune, but there was also mismanagement on the part of the government that dramatically worsened the effects of the recession in Ireland. The current Taoiseach, was the Minister for Finance during the crucial years preceding the recession and should therefore bear considerable responsibility. However, instead of being held to account or even answering his critics, Brian Cowen was promoted to a position where he could do even greater damage – but for more remuneration.
To be fair and in line with the Edelman survey, governance relates to the political system that exists within Ireland rather than specific parties, so the lack of trust applies to the opposition also, though probably not in equal measure. The unfortunate state of affairs though is that despite the borderline criminal record of Fianna Fáil in government, the opposition parties have not inspired the general population to oust them from their position of power in favour. Unfortunately, the Government may be the thief but the opposition are the unwitting accomplice.
With regard to business, banks have naturally become the least trusted industry with a 23% trust rating. Again, the banks contributed to the global recession but rather than being held to account, they were protected. A few scapegoats were put up for slaughter and a cap on some ludicrous salaries was imposed. But in general, the same people who were responsible for the banking crisis remain on the bank’s boards and promotions to fill the places of the odd scapegoat or two have been from within. Worse still, the nascent inquiry into the banking system is to be a private affair which means that the transparency required for there to be accountability, which in turn could instil trust in the people, is absent. Instead the tax payer is simply saddled with a bill for NAMA with no mechanism to question the receipt.
Workers need greater unity and civil society needs better organisation. It is quite clear that there is not enough pressure on those within the political system to act equitably and effectively and until there is, there will no reason for them to need our trust.
To have an effective state operating with a mandate that is truly endorsed by the people, the state must have the capacity and desire to respond to the demands of an active citizenry. The Fianna Fáil dominated government of recent decades has led the country from a period of supposed boom to very real bust. Naturally, there was a global recession and Ireland was never going to be immune, but there was also mismanagement on the part of the government that dramatically worsened the effects of the recession in Ireland. The current Taoiseach, was the Minister for Finance during the crucial years preceding the recession and should therefore bear considerable responsibility. However, instead of being held to account or even answering his critics, Brian Cowen was promoted to a position where he could do even greater damage – but for more remuneration.
To be fair and in line with the Edelman survey, governance relates to the political system that exists within Ireland rather than specific parties, so the lack of trust applies to the opposition also, though probably not in equal measure. The unfortunate state of affairs though is that despite the borderline criminal record of Fianna Fáil in government, the opposition parties have not inspired the general population to oust them from their position of power in favour. Unfortunately, the Government may be the thief but the opposition are the unwitting accomplice.
With regard to business, banks have naturally become the least trusted industry with a 23% trust rating. Again, the banks contributed to the global recession but rather than being held to account, they were protected. A few scapegoats were put up for slaughter and a cap on some ludicrous salaries was imposed. But in general, the same people who were responsible for the banking crisis remain on the bank’s boards and promotions to fill the places of the odd scapegoat or two have been from within. Worse still, the nascent inquiry into the banking system is to be a private affair which means that the transparency required for there to be accountability, which in turn could instil trust in the people, is absent. Instead the tax payer is simply saddled with a bill for NAMA with no mechanism to question the receipt.
Workers need greater unity and civil society needs better organisation. It is quite clear that there is not enough pressure on those within the political system to act equitably and effectively and until there is, there will no reason for them to need our trust.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Haiti and the IMF - Update
Here is your chance to call on the IMF to cancel Haiti's debt of roughly $891 million. Oxfam International has launched an action asking people to email Dominique Strauss-Kahn (head of the IMF) and demand that Haiti's debts are cancelled immediately.
CANCEL HAITI'S DEBT NOW
CANCEL HAITI'S DEBT NOW
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Haiti Needs Grants not Loans
Since Haiti gained its independence in 1804, it has been saddled with illegitimate debt. Initially, this was also coupled with the imposition of a ruthless blockade by Britain, which was subsequently imposed by Haiti's former colonial rulers France (to whom Haiti only finished paying compensation in 1947 for recognition of its freedom).
The US backed Duvalier father-son dictatorship (1957-1986) then accumulated hundreds of millions of illegitimate debt that was spent on personal loans by Papa Doc and Baby Doc and used to maintain their despotic rule. The money did not benefit the vast majority of the population in any way, shape or form. Yet, the world still demanded that the Haitian people pay back such loans. Last year Haiti finally qualified for debt cancellation worth roughly $1.2 billion, which was owed to the IMF, World Bank and the US Government, but the country still owes close to $1 billion.
Now, in response to the devastating earthquake in Haiti, the IMF is offering a new loan of $100 million, albeit interest free. Responding to criticism from those calling for debt cancellation for impoverished nations; the IMF said that it did not have a procedure to provide immediate grants. Interestingly, it does have mechanisms in place to provide immediate loans - loans that could tie Haiti into debt repayments for decades. The IMF does not have the mandate to act in this crisis and has nothing to do with development. Haiti's experience of the IMF in the 1990s was that it was forced to slash tariffs which allowed the US to dump its subsidised surplus of rice on the country, ruining the livelihoods of thousands of indigenous rice farmers. Its influence will not help the survivors of the earthquake and given the length of time it may take Haiti to repay such a loan, the IMF could wield influence for years to come. If any international financial institution is to get involved, it should be the World Bank, who could provide the same money in the form of a grant payment without any policy conditions attached.
Haiti does not need loans. It needs grants and it needs the balance of its debt to be cancelled. Now!
The US backed Duvalier father-son dictatorship (1957-1986) then accumulated hundreds of millions of illegitimate debt that was spent on personal loans by Papa Doc and Baby Doc and used to maintain their despotic rule. The money did not benefit the vast majority of the population in any way, shape or form. Yet, the world still demanded that the Haitian people pay back such loans. Last year Haiti finally qualified for debt cancellation worth roughly $1.2 billion, which was owed to the IMF, World Bank and the US Government, but the country still owes close to $1 billion.
Now, in response to the devastating earthquake in Haiti, the IMF is offering a new loan of $100 million, albeit interest free. Responding to criticism from those calling for debt cancellation for impoverished nations; the IMF said that it did not have a procedure to provide immediate grants. Interestingly, it does have mechanisms in place to provide immediate loans - loans that could tie Haiti into debt repayments for decades. The IMF does not have the mandate to act in this crisis and has nothing to do with development. Haiti's experience of the IMF in the 1990s was that it was forced to slash tariffs which allowed the US to dump its subsidised surplus of rice on the country, ruining the livelihoods of thousands of indigenous rice farmers. Its influence will not help the survivors of the earthquake and given the length of time it may take Haiti to repay such a loan, the IMF could wield influence for years to come. If any international financial institution is to get involved, it should be the World Bank, who could provide the same money in the form of a grant payment without any policy conditions attached.
Haiti does not need loans. It needs grants and it needs the balance of its debt to be cancelled. Now!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
ICCL Review New DNA Database Bill
It is welcome news that the Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL) will undertake a review of the Irish Government's new Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence and DNA Database System) Bill 2010 to establish if it falls foul of Article 8 (right to privacy) of the European Convention on Human Rights.
In December 2008, the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights issued a judgement in the case of S. and Marper v the United Kingdom, which examined the use and retention by state authorities of fingerprints, cellular samples and DNA profiles of persons suspected but not convicted of an offence. The judgement will have a massive bearing on the legitimacy of the Irish Government's bill and the ICCL's review will have to consider the following from the judgement;
(1) Retention of such personal data must strike a fair balance between competing public and private interests. The Court in the above case was disturbed by the blanket and indiscriminate nature of the power of retention in England and Wales.
(2) Provision for an independent review of the justification for the retention of such data should be made.
(3) Retention of unconvicted persons' data would be especially harmful in the case of minors, especially if the nature and gravity of the offence in question are not taken into consideration.
(4) Retention should be time-limited.
The Court concluded unanimously that there had been a violation of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights so the Irish Government should be aware that it has a small margin of appreciation and should listen to the ICCL's advice.
In December 2008, the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights issued a judgement in the case of S. and Marper v the United Kingdom, which examined the use and retention by state authorities of fingerprints, cellular samples and DNA profiles of persons suspected but not convicted of an offence. The judgement will have a massive bearing on the legitimacy of the Irish Government's bill and the ICCL's review will have to consider the following from the judgement;
(1) Retention of such personal data must strike a fair balance between competing public and private interests. The Court in the above case was disturbed by the blanket and indiscriminate nature of the power of retention in England and Wales.
(2) Provision for an independent review of the justification for the retention of such data should be made.
(3) Retention of unconvicted persons' data would be especially harmful in the case of minors, especially if the nature and gravity of the offence in question are not taken into consideration.
(4) Retention should be time-limited.
The Court concluded unanimously that there had been a violation of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights so the Irish Government should be aware that it has a small margin of appreciation and should listen to the ICCL's advice.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Haiti Appeals
After having suffered the worst earthquake in 200 years, there are an estimated 2 million people in need of immediate assistance in Haiti. The Red Cross has already speculated that 45,000-50,000 people have died and development organisations such as Oxfam have warned that the actual epicentre of the quake was in the countryside, to which there is currently no access.
Many governments have pledged resources, both financial and labour, and an emergency appeal has been made by many charities, NGOs and civil society organisations in order to provide assistance to the people of Haiti.
Every donation made will be needed to ensure that the people of Haiti can overcome yet another natural disaster and re-build their future. Immediate priorities will naturally be to provide safe water and shelter to the countless that have lost their homes. Medical supplies are in high demand and organisations such as the Red Cross desperately need funds in order to address the urgent needs of survivors.
Co-ordination among aid agencies is required to ensure the right kind of relief is effectively and swiftly provided. Many organisations have decades of experience responding to humanitarian crises and others have the acute skills necessary to provide much needed assistance. Some organisations specialise in responding to the immediate needs of survivors and others plan for long term development so that the survivors can re-build their lives. Some do both.
Naturally people will donate to organisations that they trust and this is important. Agencies already working in Haiti though or those with years of humanitarian response experience should be supported too. Quick fix solutions or organisations promoting holiday development will not sufficiently address the very real needs of the people of Haiti. Please give, but think about who you give to.
Many governments have pledged resources, both financial and labour, and an emergency appeal has been made by many charities, NGOs and civil society organisations in order to provide assistance to the people of Haiti.
Every donation made will be needed to ensure that the people of Haiti can overcome yet another natural disaster and re-build their future. Immediate priorities will naturally be to provide safe water and shelter to the countless that have lost their homes. Medical supplies are in high demand and organisations such as the Red Cross desperately need funds in order to address the urgent needs of survivors.
Co-ordination among aid agencies is required to ensure the right kind of relief is effectively and swiftly provided. Many organisations have decades of experience responding to humanitarian crises and others have the acute skills necessary to provide much needed assistance. Some organisations specialise in responding to the immediate needs of survivors and others plan for long term development so that the survivors can re-build their lives. Some do both.
Naturally people will donate to organisations that they trust and this is important. Agencies already working in Haiti though or those with years of humanitarian response experience should be supported too. Quick fix solutions or organisations promoting holiday development will not sufficiently address the very real needs of the people of Haiti. Please give, but think about who you give to.
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