If disclosure means a threat to our neighbour, is it worth it?
Some people may believe that they should have the right to know who is actually HIV infected in order to protect themselves from the risk of contracting the disease, so they say. Still the question remains, who is really at risk of danger in their community? The facts are highlighted by the vulnerability of those HIV positive people who are still subject to discrimination to this day.
A few days ago the Offence (Aggravation by Prejudice) Bill which will ensure that for the first time people living with HIV in Scotland are protected from HIV related-hate crime was passed, and it is now awaiting approval.
Deborah Jack, the chief executive of the National AIDS Trust, said: “We are delighted that the Scottish Parliament has taken this important step. Stigma and discrimination remain a distressing and sometimes dangerous reality for many people living with HIV in the UK. This Bill, soon to be Act, sends out the important message that crime motivated by hate and prejudice is not acceptable.”
Although HIV is an incurable disease which has many unpleasant issues associated to it, such as discrimination and stigma, it is no doubt that the law of confidentiality is a solid system initially established to protect those affected by the virus. We are not turning a blind eye to the fact that the law has not yet proven to be totally in control of the disease in the UK. However, is it not sad enough to come across with news that in this modern society there are heartless people who indulge in mistreating and discriminating others simply because they are HIV positive? What a disgrace.
From what scientists and doctors have vainly tried to stress many times, we should know by now that HIV is just a ‘medical condition’ just as any other disease. So what’s all the fuss for? Surely those who are perpetrators of the stigma should be ashamed of themselves as they are causing hundreds of people to refrain from coming forward for either testing or even treatments.
Rebecca Bennett and Charles Erin argued in their book ‘HIV and AIDS: testing, screening and confidentiality’, “If there is to be adherence to the principle of equal protection for all citizens then the State should take all reasonable steps to protect individuals with HIV and AIDS from discrimination and stigmatization.”
So based on all the information and evidences which have been gathered with regards to the current issues related to HIV, is it not clear that the government is only fulfilling a “strong moral obligation” to shield HIV positive people from discrimination?
Monday, 29 June 2009
Wednesday, 6 May 2009
First US Face Transplant Gives Patient ‘Her Life Back’
A woman whose face was horrendously disfigured after her husband shot her five years ago, spoke to the public today to reveal the outcome of the first face transplant performed by top surgeons in US.
Connie Culp, the 46 year-old from Ohio, was a subject of horror to those who crossed her path as her smashed, deformed face with a non-existing nose was said to have been causing children to cry and run away. Despite her staggering change for which we assume she is totally grateful, her speech is still a little impaired. But according to one of the doctors on her case, she can at least now “smell and taste the food” she eats as opposed to the previous tube-feeding she was undergoing before the transplant.
This is indeed plastic surgery to another level. In fact, although it took five months to reconstruct a new face for the patient who helped US to break a world record, for once we stand in awe because a human being is given a chance to smile again especially when it's far easy to be segregated if your look don't fit into our 'quick to judge' society.
In an interview broadcast by the BBC News Ms Culp, who is still in a long process of getting “her life back” with the targeted look surgeons are aiming to produce, said that she understands how important it is to “never judge” someone who looks disfigured because “you never know what happened to them.”
Following this successful first-time major face transplant, it is crucial to mention that if it wasn’t for that dead woman whose tissues, organs and skin was donated to Ms Culp, she would still be carrying a disturbing and monstrous face that makes people shiver at one glance. Consequently, we must learn to appreciate organ donors from all platforms as they surely make a difference in the life of the living, and that alone is enough to make their families proud of them.
It is hard to conceive just what type of husband this poor woman was married to. We’re talking about a man who, in cold blood, pulled a trigger on the one before whom he publicly vowed “for better or worse, till death do us part.” What crime can a wife commit to face a gun-fire in her face as a punishment?
Connie Culp, the 46 year-old from Ohio, was a subject of horror to those who crossed her path as her smashed, deformed face with a non-existing nose was said to have been causing children to cry and run away. Despite her staggering change for which we assume she is totally grateful, her speech is still a little impaired. But according to one of the doctors on her case, she can at least now “smell and taste the food” she eats as opposed to the previous tube-feeding she was undergoing before the transplant.
This is indeed plastic surgery to another level. In fact, although it took five months to reconstruct a new face for the patient who helped US to break a world record, for once we stand in awe because a human being is given a chance to smile again especially when it's far easy to be segregated if your look don't fit into our 'quick to judge' society.
In an interview broadcast by the BBC News Ms Culp, who is still in a long process of getting “her life back” with the targeted look surgeons are aiming to produce, said that she understands how important it is to “never judge” someone who looks disfigured because “you never know what happened to them.”
Following this successful first-time major face transplant, it is crucial to mention that if it wasn’t for that dead woman whose tissues, organs and skin was donated to Ms Culp, she would still be carrying a disturbing and monstrous face that makes people shiver at one glance. Consequently, we must learn to appreciate organ donors from all platforms as they surely make a difference in the life of the living, and that alone is enough to make their families proud of them.
It is hard to conceive just what type of husband this poor woman was married to. We’re talking about a man who, in cold blood, pulled a trigger on the one before whom he publicly vowed “for better or worse, till death do us part.” What crime can a wife commit to face a gun-fire in her face as a punishment?
Monday, 16 March 2009
A father’s incest shames Austria
This is unspeakable and unbelievable, yet it is true. A man managed to lock up his daughter for more than twenty years in the basement of his home, and fathered his own grandchildren in Austria.
Josef Fitzl, aged 73, is a total disgrace not only to Austria, his country, but also to the entire face of the earth. Appearing in court earlier today, he pleaded guilty for incest and raping his child, Elizabeth, who had seven kids as a result. However, he denied murdering one of his children and enslavement.
Although the press is doing as always, the best it can to expose demoralizing news such as this, one has to admit that we certainly live in a sick world. Day after day, people even those who look fairly decent, are capable of causing pain which could make others shake their heads in shock. Sadly even as we speak it is just a matter of time before another scandal gets uncovered.
Strangely enough, just last November, it was unveiled in Britain that a 56-year-old businessman from Sheffield kept his two daughters captives for 25 years and fathered nine of his own grandchildren. It is believed that he was moving them around houses in South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire in order to avoid any detection. That explains why this news incited the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, to warn that there was “a lesson to be learned” due to the fact that the police and social services had failed to monitor that case.
Still amidst such chaotic and despicable stories, witnessing nations are usually ready to raise their fingers and judge the failed government. Nevertheless, we remember the bad guy easily, but when it comes to the poor victim, our memory of them and their pain often evaporate as swiftly as we turn the page of a newspaper.
According to experts, a father is supposed to be the first portrait of ‘real love’ in a girl’s life. As incest robs the pure bond between two relatives, one can only wonder what it would take to recover from such horrific damage.
Josef Fitzl, aged 73, is a total disgrace not only to Austria, his country, but also to the entire face of the earth. Appearing in court earlier today, he pleaded guilty for incest and raping his child, Elizabeth, who had seven kids as a result. However, he denied murdering one of his children and enslavement.
Although the press is doing as always, the best it can to expose demoralizing news such as this, one has to admit that we certainly live in a sick world. Day after day, people even those who look fairly decent, are capable of causing pain which could make others shake their heads in shock. Sadly even as we speak it is just a matter of time before another scandal gets uncovered.
Strangely enough, just last November, it was unveiled in Britain that a 56-year-old businessman from Sheffield kept his two daughters captives for 25 years and fathered nine of his own grandchildren. It is believed that he was moving them around houses in South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire in order to avoid any detection. That explains why this news incited the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, to warn that there was “a lesson to be learned” due to the fact that the police and social services had failed to monitor that case.
Still amidst such chaotic and despicable stories, witnessing nations are usually ready to raise their fingers and judge the failed government. Nevertheless, we remember the bad guy easily, but when it comes to the poor victim, our memory of them and their pain often evaporate as swiftly as we turn the page of a newspaper.
According to experts, a father is supposed to be the first portrait of ‘real love’ in a girl’s life. As incest robs the pure bond between two relatives, one can only wonder what it would take to recover from such horrific damage.
Thursday, 19 February 2009
Russia: a murder goes unpunished
How long will Russia go on with letting its journalists suffer fear of being killed as freedom of the press is still proven to be suffocated within its shores? It has just been reported that the three men who were charged of the murder of the Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya in October 2006, have been exonerated.
MS Politkovskaya who was shot dead, was determined to showcase human rights abuses while her journalistic work was a living campaign of her accusations on the Russian government’s corruption.
How can anyone believe that some people could walk away without having to face a proper sentence after someone’s blood was spilled without retribution? It is no wonder that Alex Rossi, a Sky News correspondent in Russia reported that “the verdict was an embarrassing defeat for prosecutors.”
Dzhabrail, Ibragim Makhmudov and Sergei Khadzhikurbanov, who were allegedly accused of participating in the “contract-style killing” two years ago, walked free of charge after today’s verdict.
It is believed that MS Politkovskaya’ severe reports on the Kremlin’s policy treatment in Chechnya, was a possible set off of her death. MS Politkovskaya was also known to be one of the most radical critics of Vladamir Putin, the former Russian President who was the leader of the Kremlin government at the time.
Although we heard so many times of several mysterious deaths of key critics of the President Putin in and outside Russia, there seems to be no justice nor has anyone been able to put their finger on dirty Russian murders. Especially when this is regarding individuals who died just when they were striving to release vital information. The sad thing is that their truth revealed could have exposed the face of the man operating from the dark.
One could suddenly look back and remember that in November 2006 Alexander Litvinenko, who was a former KGB officer died of poisoning in a London’s hospital. But could anyone tell us whether of not there is any difference between dying from being shot dead in front of one’s apartment or dying from a slow and painful death after being poisoned? The answer is pretty much clear. A murder is a murder, isn’t it?
MS Politkovskaya who was shot dead, was determined to showcase human rights abuses while her journalistic work was a living campaign of her accusations on the Russian government’s corruption.
How can anyone believe that some people could walk away without having to face a proper sentence after someone’s blood was spilled without retribution? It is no wonder that Alex Rossi, a Sky News correspondent in Russia reported that “the verdict was an embarrassing defeat for prosecutors.”
Dzhabrail, Ibragim Makhmudov and Sergei Khadzhikurbanov, who were allegedly accused of participating in the “contract-style killing” two years ago, walked free of charge after today’s verdict.
It is believed that MS Politkovskaya’ severe reports on the Kremlin’s policy treatment in Chechnya, was a possible set off of her death. MS Politkovskaya was also known to be one of the most radical critics of Vladamir Putin, the former Russian President who was the leader of the Kremlin government at the time.
Although we heard so many times of several mysterious deaths of key critics of the President Putin in and outside Russia, there seems to be no justice nor has anyone been able to put their finger on dirty Russian murders. Especially when this is regarding individuals who died just when they were striving to release vital information. The sad thing is that their truth revealed could have exposed the face of the man operating from the dark.
One could suddenly look back and remember that in November 2006 Alexander Litvinenko, who was a former KGB officer died of poisoning in a London’s hospital. But could anyone tell us whether of not there is any difference between dying from being shot dead in front of one’s apartment or dying from a slow and painful death after being poisoned? The answer is pretty much clear. A murder is a murder, isn’t it?
Sunday, 8 February 2009
More than Hundred People Killed in Australia Bush Fire
It is not just the number of people who died in the bush fire in South East Australia that comes as shocking news. Rather it is hard to believe that there are still on earth people with hearts in stone.
It is believed that the blaze which started on Saturday February 7 was triggered by some so-called ‘alleged arsonists’ who reignited the fire after it was turned down by fire-fighters in the first round. Earlier this morning death toll reached 108 people. The wreckage this destructive fire has left behind is massive. There are completely burnt out houses and mostly family in agony some due to the loss of their loved ones and others are simply going through excruciating pain while lying in hospital.
It is no wonder Julia Gillard, Australia Deputy Prime Minister told the BBC News Channel that this is ‘a national disaster’. The Queen of England, Elizabeth II has sent her ‘deep condolences’ to Australia and she has expressed her sympathy to victims stressing out that this incident is a ‘terrible distress ever in the wildlife history.’
Meanwhile, it can only feel appropriate to take off our hat to brave fire-fighters as they keep on working under severe pressure to bring the fire under control. In fact, isn’t it amazing that we often take for granted that fire-fighters constantly risk their very lives in order to save others who are trapped in deadly furnace such as that of the Australian Bush fire?
It is believed that the blaze which started on Saturday February 7 was triggered by some so-called ‘alleged arsonists’ who reignited the fire after it was turned down by fire-fighters in the first round. Earlier this morning death toll reached 108 people. The wreckage this destructive fire has left behind is massive. There are completely burnt out houses and mostly family in agony some due to the loss of their loved ones and others are simply going through excruciating pain while lying in hospital.
It is no wonder Julia Gillard, Australia Deputy Prime Minister told the BBC News Channel that this is ‘a national disaster’. The Queen of England, Elizabeth II has sent her ‘deep condolences’ to Australia and she has expressed her sympathy to victims stressing out that this incident is a ‘terrible distress ever in the wildlife history.’
Meanwhile, it can only feel appropriate to take off our hat to brave fire-fighters as they keep on working under severe pressure to bring the fire under control. In fact, isn’t it amazing that we often take for granted that fire-fighters constantly risk their very lives in order to save others who are trapped in deadly furnace such as that of the Australian Bush fire?
Friday, 23 January 2009
Israel Ceasefire: What A Relief, At Least For Now
We all know that this is not the first time Israel and Palestine engage into a fierce fighting. And it’s certainly not the first time that civilians find themselves victims of the bombings in both camps. Whether or not somebody can certify that this is the very last time the world has to witness such horrifying and irrepressible conflicts between the two sides, none can tell.
According the Al Jazeerah report, the recent conflict which started on December 27, 2008 and got carried all the way through to mid January 2009, birthed more than 750 dead and 3200 injured in Gaza, including women and children. With the actual official ceasefire, Israeli military has finally backed off, but God only knows how long this temporary peace will last for.
The Hamas, a Palestinian Sunni Islamic military organization, were the key opponents to Israel’s mega force. According to Wikipedia, Hamas is listed as a terrorist organization by many countries including the United States and the European Union.
Earlier, during the boiling opposition, the UN Secretary Ban Ki-moon spoke of his alarm for the Israel and Hamas’s “acts of violence.” In fact, the UN chief called for an immediate ceasefire as he expressed his “concern” about the disaster caused by the relentless rocketing in Gaza saying that it was “unacceptable.” Still, despite every possible authoritative figure’s call for an immediate ceasefire, it was shocking to note how these messages were falling on Israeli’s death ear. No respond whatsoever. For what seemed like an endless season, we saw with horror how the number of casualties and dead were multiplying day after day after day.
At one stage on January 7 this year, in a special interview with Sky News, the Israeli President, Shimon Peres, defended their merciless bombing actions. Mr Peres was blaming the Palestinians’ so-called ‘terrorists supported by Iran’ who according to him, have been “warned many times” claiming that they attacked Israel using innocent masquerades such as appearing in hospital as sick people and so on. Although the Israeli President argued that his country wasn’t aiming at conquering a territory in Gaza, his cold face could say a lot on how Israel feels about its enemy.
It is true that every time we saw news reports on our screens or heard that more civilians were being caught up in the political conflicts between Israel and Palestine, our hearts went out to the victims. But isn’t it sad enough to note that in all cases there’s hardly any sign that the perpetrators give a damn about innocent people?
According the Al Jazeerah report, the recent conflict which started on December 27, 2008 and got carried all the way through to mid January 2009, birthed more than 750 dead and 3200 injured in Gaza, including women and children. With the actual official ceasefire, Israeli military has finally backed off, but God only knows how long this temporary peace will last for.
The Hamas, a Palestinian Sunni Islamic military organization, were the key opponents to Israel’s mega force. According to Wikipedia, Hamas is listed as a terrorist organization by many countries including the United States and the European Union.
Earlier, during the boiling opposition, the UN Secretary Ban Ki-moon spoke of his alarm for the Israel and Hamas’s “acts of violence.” In fact, the UN chief called for an immediate ceasefire as he expressed his “concern” about the disaster caused by the relentless rocketing in Gaza saying that it was “unacceptable.” Still, despite every possible authoritative figure’s call for an immediate ceasefire, it was shocking to note how these messages were falling on Israeli’s death ear. No respond whatsoever. For what seemed like an endless season, we saw with horror how the number of casualties and dead were multiplying day after day after day.
At one stage on January 7 this year, in a special interview with Sky News, the Israeli President, Shimon Peres, defended their merciless bombing actions. Mr Peres was blaming the Palestinians’ so-called ‘terrorists supported by Iran’ who according to him, have been “warned many times” claiming that they attacked Israel using innocent masquerades such as appearing in hospital as sick people and so on. Although the Israeli President argued that his country wasn’t aiming at conquering a territory in Gaza, his cold face could say a lot on how Israel feels about its enemy.
It is true that every time we saw news reports on our screens or heard that more civilians were being caught up in the political conflicts between Israel and Palestine, our hearts went out to the victims. But isn’t it sad enough to note that in all cases there’s hardly any sign that the perpetrators give a damn about innocent people?
Monday, 22 December 2008
Zimbabwe and many nations are crying
There’s a silent cry of suffering which has been going on and on in some African countries such as Zimbabwe, DR Congo, Sudan and Middle East countries such Afghanistan and Pakistan. We’ve seen it all on TV haven’t we? So we think. Some are dying in the midst of blasting bombs and devastating gun shootings, some of hunger and others of sicknesses. Could that cry be possibly ignored or unheard?
Yet when that sound gets on our screens through television news, we simply see it as in a flash. We sure are proud of reporters and journalists who work hard to unveil to us things and events happening around the world. It’s good to be thrilled about the news brought into our living rooms every day. Some of us attend to evening services as regular and faithful followers. Watching the news on time, from the headlines’ announcement to the last word of the anchor man or woman.
However, the moment the evening news is over, we turn around, switch the TV off or change channels in order to find entertainment to wash away the horrific scene we’ve just seen. As to so say to ourselves “O my God, that’s sad. Unbelievable!” Then we simply perceive that news as happening in a distant world, and so since we need to move on with our life there isn’t much we can do about it anyway. Of course, one can only say that it is only normal to cross our arms and turn a blind eye to these matters for a couple of reasons: We are powerless. Just what can we do as individuals to stop human right abusers from freely operating in a nation far away? Plus, no matter how bad the situation gets, we are not affected neither directly nor indirectly.
The suffering of Zimbabweans has been portrayed in the news for months now. The last time we checked, President Mugabe is still in power. There’re lots of ways viewers can understand the sound of pain. Anyone who has ever lost their beloved ones in a way or another would know how bitter life can turn to be when one has to say goodbye to someone close to them. Tragic or peaceful death, the person is gone forever. Never to be seen again from the face of the earth. So how can one figure out the type of pain Zimbabweans are going through at the moment as many of them are losing precious lives by thousands?
It has been reported that the outbreak of Cholera which is a fatal disease has caused and is still causing a significant number of dead in Zimbabwe. In this country where it is believed that human rights are continuously being abused without any intervention, its corrupted government is no place to turn eyes to for help. How horrendous.
Strangely while in some corners of the earth many people are dying of diverse calamities, somewhere else others are starving of being powerless. This is because on this other side of the world, though watching from a distance, some people are wishing they could do something about justice where it is needed.
Nevertheless, let’s hope someday these sufferings will end one way or another. But in the meantime, has anyone heard that silent cry yet?
Yet when that sound gets on our screens through television news, we simply see it as in a flash. We sure are proud of reporters and journalists who work hard to unveil to us things and events happening around the world. It’s good to be thrilled about the news brought into our living rooms every day. Some of us attend to evening services as regular and faithful followers. Watching the news on time, from the headlines’ announcement to the last word of the anchor man or woman.
However, the moment the evening news is over, we turn around, switch the TV off or change channels in order to find entertainment to wash away the horrific scene we’ve just seen. As to so say to ourselves “O my God, that’s sad. Unbelievable!” Then we simply perceive that news as happening in a distant world, and so since we need to move on with our life there isn’t much we can do about it anyway. Of course, one can only say that it is only normal to cross our arms and turn a blind eye to these matters for a couple of reasons: We are powerless. Just what can we do as individuals to stop human right abusers from freely operating in a nation far away? Plus, no matter how bad the situation gets, we are not affected neither directly nor indirectly.
The suffering of Zimbabweans has been portrayed in the news for months now. The last time we checked, President Mugabe is still in power. There’re lots of ways viewers can understand the sound of pain. Anyone who has ever lost their beloved ones in a way or another would know how bitter life can turn to be when one has to say goodbye to someone close to them. Tragic or peaceful death, the person is gone forever. Never to be seen again from the face of the earth. So how can one figure out the type of pain Zimbabweans are going through at the moment as many of them are losing precious lives by thousands?
It has been reported that the outbreak of Cholera which is a fatal disease has caused and is still causing a significant number of dead in Zimbabwe. In this country where it is believed that human rights are continuously being abused without any intervention, its corrupted government is no place to turn eyes to for help. How horrendous.
Strangely while in some corners of the earth many people are dying of diverse calamities, somewhere else others are starving of being powerless. This is because on this other side of the world, though watching from a distance, some people are wishing they could do something about justice where it is needed.
Nevertheless, let’s hope someday these sufferings will end one way or another. But in the meantime, has anyone heard that silent cry yet?
Sunday, 30 November 2008
DR Congo: A Nation Bleeding, Yet Still Exploited?
UN PEACE KEEPERS IN D.R.C INEFECTIVE
The ravaging war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) over the past years, have left the country bleeding from inside out. And the sad thing is that nothing or nobody seems to be equipped with the right tools to end this savage war and heal the population once for all. But who is to blame?
In 10 years nearly 5 million people have died, including around 400, 000 who were shot dead. It is no wonder Brian Wood of Amnesty International said: “The level of the death toll in Congo is like having a September 11 each day.”
Just a few weeks ago it was reported how more than half a million people fled their homes from Goma, in Eastern Congo, due to a surge which was said to have been started with gun fires by a bunch of rebels who wanted to take over the country. Their leader, Laurent Nkunda, a Congolese who is originally from Rwanda, is using his harmful remote control to a mess up a government which is trying to recover from 30 years of slavery under a deceased dictator, Mobutu, the former president.
All over the world news streams highlighted reports detailing the level of misery these innocent people were going through during the war outbreak. How appalling. To think that rebels stoop so low to get their way in by destroying lives, leaving burning homes behind them, causing the little ones to go hungry because their parents couldn’t take enough food to sustain them for days on the run? It goes beyond words.
On the other hand, rumour has it that some Western countries have always had their eyes on the wealth of developing countries in Africa, thus they supply rebels with sophisticated weapons enjoying their mineral products in the process. What is known officially is that the neighbouring countries such as Rwanda and Uganda are triggering the war for a reason or another. However, it is believed that a group of experts sent by the UN are carrying out investigations to find out who finances the needless war in Congo, and the truth is yet to be uncovered and exposed.
Still it is true that D.R.C is said to be one of the richest country when it comes to valuing its minerals resources. These include diamond, gold, silver, coltan (a source of tantalum for the capacitors used in electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptop computers) and copper etc. Could these be a good enough reason why this poorly governed country is likely to be exploited? According to the man who has been closely following weapons’ trafficking in eastern Congo, Brian Wood, of Amnesty International “the real cause of the ethnic war is the need to control the minerals’ wealth.”
In the meantime, what about the civilians caught up in the politic of this war? Fair enough the United Nations (UN) are diligent when it comes to mandating military forces to attend a place in crisis. For goodness sake, what are they doing for this exhausted nation? We know that they are called UN Peace Keepers. Apparently their job is to only be present in places of trouble but they have no power. This means they have no right or order to prevent killings of any sort from happening. So what’s the point? Their presence in DRC has proven to be ineffective so far. They might as well pack their bags and go home.
The ravaging war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) over the past years, have left the country bleeding from inside out. And the sad thing is that nothing or nobody seems to be equipped with the right tools to end this savage war and heal the population once for all. But who is to blame?
In 10 years nearly 5 million people have died, including around 400, 000 who were shot dead. It is no wonder Brian Wood of Amnesty International said: “The level of the death toll in Congo is like having a September 11 each day.”
Just a few weeks ago it was reported how more than half a million people fled their homes from Goma, in Eastern Congo, due to a surge which was said to have been started with gun fires by a bunch of rebels who wanted to take over the country. Their leader, Laurent Nkunda, a Congolese who is originally from Rwanda, is using his harmful remote control to a mess up a government which is trying to recover from 30 years of slavery under a deceased dictator, Mobutu, the former president.
All over the world news streams highlighted reports detailing the level of misery these innocent people were going through during the war outbreak. How appalling. To think that rebels stoop so low to get their way in by destroying lives, leaving burning homes behind them, causing the little ones to go hungry because their parents couldn’t take enough food to sustain them for days on the run? It goes beyond words.
On the other hand, rumour has it that some Western countries have always had their eyes on the wealth of developing countries in Africa, thus they supply rebels with sophisticated weapons enjoying their mineral products in the process. What is known officially is that the neighbouring countries such as Rwanda and Uganda are triggering the war for a reason or another. However, it is believed that a group of experts sent by the UN are carrying out investigations to find out who finances the needless war in Congo, and the truth is yet to be uncovered and exposed.
Still it is true that D.R.C is said to be one of the richest country when it comes to valuing its minerals resources. These include diamond, gold, silver, coltan (a source of tantalum for the capacitors used in electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptop computers) and copper etc. Could these be a good enough reason why this poorly governed country is likely to be exploited? According to the man who has been closely following weapons’ trafficking in eastern Congo, Brian Wood, of Amnesty International “the real cause of the ethnic war is the need to control the minerals’ wealth.”
In the meantime, what about the civilians caught up in the politic of this war? Fair enough the United Nations (UN) are diligent when it comes to mandating military forces to attend a place in crisis. For goodness sake, what are they doing for this exhausted nation? We know that they are called UN Peace Keepers. Apparently their job is to only be present in places of trouble but they have no power. This means they have no right or order to prevent killings of any sort from happening. So what’s the point? Their presence in DRC has proven to be ineffective so far. They might as well pack their bags and go home.
Wednesday, 5 November 2008
Barack Obama: A History-Maker
It is true that most of us never believe we would see a day like this one in the history of mankinds. A black man publicly elected to lead one of the most powerful nations on earth: The United Nations of America. From the moment he stepped out of no where to live for a greater cause, he attracted a number of enemies against his plan to bring “change” around. However, his courage meant the world to all of us because in the face of fierce adversity he didn’t dare to shrink back, nor give way to the giant who thought he was going to keep tradition alive by having the last word as usual. But thank God for people to whom quitting is not an option to access success.
In his speech as the first black president of the United States, Barack Obama said: “…Is anyone up there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our fathers is alive in our time; who still question the power of our democracy: tonight is your answer.”
He appeared as calm as ever. He was finally reaping the fruit of his labour. Barack Obama was addressing the nations with a firm voice, highlighting his clear purpose for the White House just as he did throughout his campaigning season. There, stood a man looked upon as a hero by an overjoyed crowd. Some in tears: young, old, white, black, Asians and people from all walks of life. They all turned up to listen to their history-maker.
What can we say? At the end of a race, there is always a winner and a loser. It is no wonder that in the Republican’s camp, defeat was raining on an obviously disappointed crowd. A large number of people who also lined up to hear Senator John McCain wrap up his last sermon to confirm that his race to the White House was over. Still the latter encouraged his faithful followers to “forget their differences and reunite” with the Democrats in order to “rebuilt” the country.
Meanwhile, back to the place where all the spotlights were, Obama said: “Tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment: change has come to America.” The 44th elected president declared that he did not win the election for himself but that this victory belonged to his supporters who stood up to fight with him to the end.
Aware that the victory was won but the battle was not completely over yet, he admitted that he wasn’t a “perfect” man. He knew it would take a lot to reach a satisfying ground for the whole of America and even all other nations looking up to the US. But he also confidently said: “I promise you that we, as a people …we will get there.”
Barack Obama urged the people who didn’t vote for him and who probably still didn’t think he was worthy to take America to the next level, to see the bigger picture. It was about time they joined him because he needed their participation in order to restore the country, just as much as he needed those who wholeheartedly accepted him in the first place. And so he passionately cited a quote by a great pioneer of the past, Abraham Lincoln who said “We are not enemies but friends. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bond of affection.”
To see a shot of Jessie Jackson’s face, the man who has campaigned as a civil right activist for many years, in tears like a speechless child. It was priceless. Various broadcasters played over and over again the clip showing Jessie Jackson’s face as he broke down in tears. It felt as though the expression on his face was sending a message of relief, consolation and “victory at last” to the viewers all around the world.
Finally, proving to be a sensible man, Barack Obama remembered to include his unofficial supporters from all over the globe. “…And all those watching from beyond our shores …and the forgotten world; our stories are singular but our destiny is shared. The new dawn of America’s leadership is at hand,” he said to emphasize his sympathy to nations in the third world countries.
After winning with a score of 349 beating his rival John MacCain who fell short with a total of 173 points, it is no wonder that a broadcaster announced that it was a “comfortable” triumph for the Democrats. In fact, with this undisputable victory, surely Obama is a hero to many and is going to remain a history-maker for generation after generations.
In his speech as the first black president of the United States, Barack Obama said: “…Is anyone up there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our fathers is alive in our time; who still question the power of our democracy: tonight is your answer.”
He appeared as calm as ever. He was finally reaping the fruit of his labour. Barack Obama was addressing the nations with a firm voice, highlighting his clear purpose for the White House just as he did throughout his campaigning season. There, stood a man looked upon as a hero by an overjoyed crowd. Some in tears: young, old, white, black, Asians and people from all walks of life. They all turned up to listen to their history-maker.
What can we say? At the end of a race, there is always a winner and a loser. It is no wonder that in the Republican’s camp, defeat was raining on an obviously disappointed crowd. A large number of people who also lined up to hear Senator John McCain wrap up his last sermon to confirm that his race to the White House was over. Still the latter encouraged his faithful followers to “forget their differences and reunite” with the Democrats in order to “rebuilt” the country.
Meanwhile, back to the place where all the spotlights were, Obama said: “Tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment: change has come to America.” The 44th elected president declared that he did not win the election for himself but that this victory belonged to his supporters who stood up to fight with him to the end.
Aware that the victory was won but the battle was not completely over yet, he admitted that he wasn’t a “perfect” man. He knew it would take a lot to reach a satisfying ground for the whole of America and even all other nations looking up to the US. But he also confidently said: “I promise you that we, as a people …we will get there.”
Barack Obama urged the people who didn’t vote for him and who probably still didn’t think he was worthy to take America to the next level, to see the bigger picture. It was about time they joined him because he needed their participation in order to restore the country, just as much as he needed those who wholeheartedly accepted him in the first place. And so he passionately cited a quote by a great pioneer of the past, Abraham Lincoln who said “We are not enemies but friends. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bond of affection.”
To see a shot of Jessie Jackson’s face, the man who has campaigned as a civil right activist for many years, in tears like a speechless child. It was priceless. Various broadcasters played over and over again the clip showing Jessie Jackson’s face as he broke down in tears. It felt as though the expression on his face was sending a message of relief, consolation and “victory at last” to the viewers all around the world.
Finally, proving to be a sensible man, Barack Obama remembered to include his unofficial supporters from all over the globe. “…And all those watching from beyond our shores …and the forgotten world; our stories are singular but our destiny is shared. The new dawn of America’s leadership is at hand,” he said to emphasize his sympathy to nations in the third world countries.
After winning with a score of 349 beating his rival John MacCain who fell short with a total of 173 points, it is no wonder that a broadcaster announced that it was a “comfortable” triumph for the Democrats. In fact, with this undisputable victory, surely Obama is a hero to many and is going to remain a history-maker for generation after generations.
Sunday, 23 December 2007
Cuban President To Give Way To Younger Generation
Fidel Castro, the Cuban Veteran President has finally realised it is high time he steps aside to give his ruling power away to a younger generation. As the 81-year-old took office in Cuba since 1959, his aspiring younger successor can now take a deep sigh after such a long awaiting moment. On Tuesday December 18, it was announced on state Television in a read out letter, that the unwell President said that his fundamental responsibility was not “to cling to office” nor to stand in the way of the younger people, but to “pass on” the experiences and ideas…”
Over the years, Castro has proven to have firmly stood his ground against America’s imperialism until his health betrayed him. He might be loved and respected by the Cuban population for being a steady leader for a long time. Unfortunately, as the saying goes “everything comes to an end”. Maybe it is time for Castro to let go of his power. In fact, if it was not for his recent critical intestinal operation, it might has been another story altogether – who knows, perhaps the communist leader made a vow before embarking onto his political career saying ‘Till death do part’. As for the new wannabe Cuban leader, who could well be Carlos Lage Dάvila, the actual vice-President, with regards to socialism in Cuba, will he be able to sustain the legacy of his soon-to-be predecessor?
Over the years, Castro has proven to have firmly stood his ground against America’s imperialism until his health betrayed him. He might be loved and respected by the Cuban population for being a steady leader for a long time. Unfortunately, as the saying goes “everything comes to an end”. Maybe it is time for Castro to let go of his power. In fact, if it was not for his recent critical intestinal operation, it might has been another story altogether – who knows, perhaps the communist leader made a vow before embarking onto his political career saying ‘Till death do part’. As for the new wannabe Cuban leader, who could well be Carlos Lage Dάvila, the actual vice-President, with regards to socialism in Cuba, will he be able to sustain the legacy of his soon-to-be predecessor?
Saturday, 1 December 2007
Will Israel and Palestine live in peace at last?
Israel and Palestine have being having vicious conflicts for decades. On November 27, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert agreed to officially engage in a peace process negotiation for the first time in seven years. Their decision came after the US President George Bush announced a preliminary agreement between the two sides at a conference in Annapolis. The Middle East leaders of the two long-lasting opposing countries are due to meet again at the White House on December 12 in order to continue with the peace process.
Great. It sounds like a good start. However, one has got to keep in mind that this is not the first time that an attempt is made to stop the endless conflicts in these respective countries. And although the US is standing in the gap acting like a referee, is there hope? Knowing that for years Israel has been backed up by the US in its every move; in fact, just like a loyal big brother would do to his little one. Then, good luck to Palestine. So really, the question is not will this peace process work this time, but what will be done differently to see a radical change settling in these two nations?
Great. It sounds like a good start. However, one has got to keep in mind that this is not the first time that an attempt is made to stop the endless conflicts in these respective countries. And although the US is standing in the gap acting like a referee, is there hope? Knowing that for years Israel has been backed up by the US in its every move; in fact, just like a loyal big brother would do to his little one. Then, good luck to Palestine. So really, the question is not will this peace process work this time, but what will be done differently to see a radical change settling in these two nations?
Tuesday, 30 October 2007
Men Hanged In Iran
UN Numbness on Human rights abuses in Iran
The merciless Iranian regime publicly hanged three more men last month on September 27. Following the previous week’s hangings of some political prisoners, this time the victims were students [Hadi Jafartabar, Mirhadi Mirtaghi and Seyyed Shoja Mousazadeh] accused of raping and robbing 12 women. According to Amnesty International, the death toll has now reached 210 people since January 2007, a number which has exceeded last year record which 177 was. There has been indeed a chain of public executions despite the International law’s condemnation urging Iran to stop these human rights violations. Iran death penalty ranges from people who have committed an “outrageous” offence such as rape or murder, to theft. Surely, the whole situation in Iran is extremely appalling. However, the UN Human Rights Council vote to no longer monitor human rights abuses in Iran, is even more disgraceful.
The merciless Iranian regime publicly hanged three more men last month on September 27. Following the previous week’s hangings of some political prisoners, this time the victims were students [Hadi Jafartabar, Mirhadi Mirtaghi and Seyyed Shoja Mousazadeh] accused of raping and robbing 12 women. According to Amnesty International, the death toll has now reached 210 people since January 2007, a number which has exceeded last year record which 177 was. There has been indeed a chain of public executions despite the International law’s condemnation urging Iran to stop these human rights violations. Iran death penalty ranges from people who have committed an “outrageous” offence such as rape or murder, to theft. Surely, the whole situation in Iran is extremely appalling. However, the UN Human Rights Council vote to no longer monitor human rights abuses in Iran, is even more disgraceful.
Friday, 19 January 2007
The future of war correspondents
According to CPJ (Committee to Protect Journalists), 71 percent of journalists who were killed from 1992 to 2006 were murdered, 18 percent were killed by Crossfire / Combat related, and only 10 percent died during other dangerous assignments. Most of them were Print reporters and writers, Broadcast reporters, Camera operators, Photographers, Columnist / Commentators etc.
So, what does the future holds for war correspondent?
Our nation still needs courageous and outstanding journalists to bring news from dangerous places. Let face it. Danger is everywhere anyway. In fact, who would have thought that the peaceful and “Peacemaker” America would see a day like September11? In other words, if you are a journalist out there, you’ve got to be ready or at least be willing to embrace unpredicted as well as unexpected challenges, such as reporting from war zones, in order to satisfy your nation with outstanding breaking news.
So, what does the future holds for war correspondent?
Our nation still needs courageous and outstanding journalists to bring news from dangerous places. Let face it. Danger is everywhere anyway. In fact, who would have thought that the peaceful and “Peacemaker” America would see a day like September11? In other words, if you are a journalist out there, you’ve got to be ready or at least be willing to embrace unpredicted as well as unexpected challenges, such as reporting from war zones, in order to satisfy your nation with outstanding breaking news.
A sad situation
November 13, 2006, Ap Associated Press reported the killing of another journalist in Baghdad, a television camera man. It is reported that at least 89 journalists have been killed in Iraq since hostilities began in March 2003, according to Associated Press count based on statistics kept by the New York-based Committee to protect Journalists.
What a sad situation. So then, what is the future of reporting from dangerous zones? In March 2006 Richard Gizbert, a war reporter was fired by the TV network ABC after repeatedly rejecting assignments in war zones like Iraq. The thing is, maybe this journalist was being shrewd enough to think twice about how worth was his life.
I guess it must be great to be labelled ‘Valiant To Work In Dangerous Places’, however, Mission or no mission, life comes first. One could wonder whether or not the money counts? Say your Editor make an offer of an unimaginable dream sum of money. It would go into your bank account on the completion day of your mission, and after bringing an exclusive story to your newspaper or TV network. Well, that sounds great, but what about facing the bombs? Does your Editor know what it feels like to disappear in a flame? I don’t think so.
What a sad situation. So then, what is the future of reporting from dangerous zones? In March 2006 Richard Gizbert, a war reporter was fired by the TV network ABC after repeatedly rejecting assignments in war zones like Iraq. The thing is, maybe this journalist was being shrewd enough to think twice about how worth was his life.
I guess it must be great to be labelled ‘Valiant To Work In Dangerous Places’, however, Mission or no mission, life comes first. One could wonder whether or not the money counts? Say your Editor make an offer of an unimaginable dream sum of money. It would go into your bank account on the completion day of your mission, and after bringing an exclusive story to your newspaper or TV network. Well, that sounds great, but what about facing the bombs? Does your Editor know what it feels like to disappear in a flame? I don’t think so.
Sunday, 14 January 2007
End of a Courageous and Outspoken Critic
Anna Politkovskaya, a Russian investigative journalist was killed on Saturday October 7, 2006 at her apartment block in Moscow. According to the CIJ (Centre For Investigative Journalism), she was a courageous and outspoken critic of President Putin and was renowned for her principled reporting on the Chechen conflict.
What is happening with our journalism world? How many more indispensable journalists are we going to lose? Although I love adventure, one thing I am sure of is that being a war correspondent is no longer an attractive job to me. Moreover, Reporters Without Borders annual roundup in 2006 counted on January 1, 63 journalists killed, more than 1300 attacked or threaten around the world. A worldwide total of 126 journalists imprisoned.
This doesn’t sound good, does it?
What is happening with our journalism world? How many more indispensable journalists are we going to lose? Although I love adventure, one thing I am sure of is that being a war correspondent is no longer an attractive job to me. Moreover, Reporters Without Borders annual roundup in 2006 counted on January 1, 63 journalists killed, more than 1300 attacked or threaten around the world. A worldwide total of 126 journalists imprisoned.
This doesn’t sound good, does it?
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