Human rights groups urge Nigeria to arrest Sudan's president By: James Butty, VOA October 26, 2009 A coalition of human rights groups is calling on Nigerian President Umaru Yar'Adua to arrest Sudanese President Omar al-Bashire when he comes to Nigeria this Thursday, October 29 to attend an African Union-sponsored talks on the crisis in Sudan's Darfur region. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for the Sudanese president for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Oby Nwankwo, the representative for Africa on the International Coalition for the ICC, said Nigeria must honor its international legal obligation to arrest Mr. Bashir. http://www.voanews.com/english/Africa/2009-10-26-voa9.cfm Tactics: International/Third Party Actions Issues: Human Rights Country/Region: Nigeria, Sub-Saharan Africa Other Keywords: Umaru Yar'Adua, Omar al-Bashire, Darfur, African Union, International Criminal Court, War Crimes, Crimes Against Humanity
South Africa: Activists demand fair climate deal By: All Africa October 26, 2009 Activists in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Pietermaritzburg on Saturday placed banners on statues of local leaders to urge President Jacob Zuma to provide leadership during the Climate Summit in Copenhagen this December. Greenpeace's action was part of a global day of action, initiated by the 350.org campaign, which involved millions of people in more than 170 countries demanding a fair, ambitious and binding deal to prevent catastrophic climate change. http://allafrica.com/stories/200910260030.html Tactics: Mass Demonstrations/Marches Issues: Environment Country/Region: South Africa, Africa Other Keywords: Activists, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Jacob Zuma, Greenpeace, Climate Summit, 350.org Campaign
Zimbabwe: Public broadcaster imposes news blackout against ministers By: The Zimbabwean October 26, 2009 The Ministry of Media, Information and Publicity has reportedly ordered the state-controlled Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation and other state-controlled newspapers to stop covering ministers belonging to the Movement for Democratic Change led by Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai until the party reverses its decision to suspend contact with Zanu PF. This comes in the wake of a decision on 16 October 2009 by Tsvangirai and his MDC-T to partially withdraw from the inclusive government until the resolution of outstanding issues that have not been fulfilled in terms of the Global Political Agreement signed by Zanu PF, MDC-M and Tsvangiraiís party. http://www.thezimbabwean.co.uk/2009102625945/weekday-top-stories/public-broadcaster-imposes-news-blackout-against-ministers.html Tactics: Political Noncooperation Issues: Freedom of Press Country/Region: Zimbabwe, Sub-Saharan Africa Other Keywords: Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, movement for Meocratic Change, Morgan Tsvangirai, Zanu PF, Global Political Agreement
Leaders of Zimbabwe's NGO sector arrested By: The Guardian October 26, 2009 The heads of the umbrella organisation for all of Zimbabwe's NGOs were arrested on Sunday amid worsening signs of the disintegration of the country's fragile coalition government. Cephas Zinumhwe, chief executive of the National Association of NGOs (Nango), and its chairperson, Dadirai Chikwengo, were arrested at the small airport in the northern resort town of Victoria Falls after a Nango meeting, spokesperson Farai Ngirande said. Ngirande said they were accused of "holding a public political meeting without approval" -- a claim Nango rejects -- and were held by police overnight. http://www.mg.co.za/article/2009-10-26-leaders-of-zims-ngo-sector-arrested Tactics: Other Issues: Freedom of Assembly, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Zimbabwe, Sub-Saharan Africa Other Keywords: Cephas Zinumhwe, National Association of NGOs, Dadirai Chikwengo, Victoria Falls
Zimbabwe: Tsvangirai's walkout puts Mugabe on the backfoot By: All Africa October 26, 2009 For once, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai and the Movement for Democratic Change appear to have scored a palpable hit against President Robert Mugabe and his allies. Following a meeting with Tsvangirai on 21 October in Cape Town, South African President Jacob Zuma declared that 'the country should not be allowed to slide back into instability, and that he was ready to assist the parties in implementing the Global Political Agreement. http://allafrica.com/stories/200910261155.html Tactics: International/Third Party Actions, Political Noncooperation Issues: Corruption, Election Country/Region: Zimbabwe, Sub-Saharan Africa Other Keywords: Morgan Tsvangirai, Movement for Democratic Change, Robert Mugabe, Cape Town, Jacob Zuma, Global Political Agreement
Rights group urges Kenya to stop military recruitment of refugees By: Moni Basu, CNN October 25, 2009 A global human rights group is urging Kenya to stop Somali military recruiters from enlisting displaced men and boys in Kenya's sprawling Dadaab refugee camps to fight in their war against Islamic militants. She said allowing recruiters to enlist young refugees in a new force intended to fight on behalf of Somalia's Transitional Federal Government is a violation of U.N. regulations that govern refugee camps. The Kenyan government, however, rejects charges that it is aiding in Somali military recruitment. http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/africa/10/25/intl.kenya.refugee.recruitment/ Tactics: International/ Third Party Actions Issues: Human Rights Country/Region: Kenya, Sub- Saharan Africa Other Keywords: Dadaab, Refugee Camps, UN, Somalia's Transitional Federal Government
Zimbabwe police raid rivalsí house By: AP October 24, 2009 Police raided a house near here used by executives of the prime ministerís party, saying they were searching for weapons, the countryís finance minister said on Saturday. The raid signals the fragility of Zimbabweís unity government and undoubtedly will worsen the already bitter relationship between President Robert Mugabe and the prime minister, Morgan Tsvangirai. Mr. Mugabe was forced into a power-sharing government with Mr. Tsvangirai, a longtime opposition leader, after disputed elections. Mr. Tsvangirai withdrew from the coalition government on Oct. 16. http://www.tehrantimes.com/index_View.asp?code=206423 Tactics: Other Issues: Corruption, Election Country/Region: Zimbabwe, Sub-Saharan Africa Other Keywords: Robert Mugabe, Morgan Tsvangirai, opposition leader
DRC: Stop texting, to save lives in Africa By: One World October 21, 2009 Activists asked cell phone users to stop texting for one hour today -- not to save energy or focus on the road, but to call attention to one of the deadliest and most underreported conflicts in the world. The so-called "Cell Out" campaign is part of Congo Week, a series of actions being held worldwide between Oct. 18 and 24 to call attention to what many believe is the largest humanitarian crisis in the world -- the ongoing war over resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). http://us.oneworld.net/article/367552-stop-texting-save-lives-africa Tactics: Boycott Issues: Corruption, Other Issues Country/Region: DRC, Sub-Saharan Africa Other Keywords: Activists, "Cell Out" Campaign, Congo Week
AMERICAS: CENTRAL AMERICA/CARIBBEAN
U.S. officials to visit to Honduras to push for deal By: Deborah Charles, Reuters October 26, 2009 Senior U.S. officials will travel to Honduras this week to press ousted President Manuel Zelaya and the country's post-coup de facto leaders to break a stalemate in a four-month-old political crisis. Growing increasingly impatient with the repeated breakdown of talks between Zelaya and de facto leader Roberto Micheletti, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also spoke with both men by telephone on Friday evening to urge them to make compromises. http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE59P4TH20091026?rpc=401& Tactics: International/Third Party Actions Issues: Coup d'etat Country/Region: Honduras, South America Other Keywords: Manuel Zelaya, Robert Micheletti, Hillary Clinton
Honduras: President Zelaya undergoes strange siege inside Brazilian embassy By: Fabiano Maisonnave, Guardian October 25, 2009 The de facto government dares not storm the embassy and Zelaya dares not leave, knowing he would be arrested. Talks between the two sides have collapsed and no resolution is in sight. Access to the building is restricted, with only UN officials; a local human rights organization, which delivers food; embassy staff; and three Zelaya envoys allowed to regularly come and go. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/oct/25/honduras-manuel-zelaya-embassy-siege Tactics: Other Issues: Coup d'etat Country/Region: Honduras, South America Other Keywords: Manuel Zelaya, UN, Brazilian Embassy
Honduras' tourism minister - 'Don't visit my country!' By: Tim Rogers, Time October 24, 2009 A vacation in Honduras can conjure up visions of spectacular destinations. But that's not what tourist-industry reporters saw when the country's Minister of Tourism, Ricardo MartÌnez, presented a video at a recent convention in neighboring El Salvador. With a sound track of revolutionary music, it showed supporters of ousted Honduran President Manuel Zelaya clashing with riot police in the streets of the capital, Tegucigalpa. http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1932100,00.html?xid=rss-world Tactics: Other Issues: Coup d'etat, Fredom of Expression Country/Region: Honduras, South America Other Keywords: Ricardo Martinez, Manuel Zelaya, Tegucigalpa, police
AMERICAS: NORTH AMERICA
US: In Queens, still cultivating the grass roots By: Anne Barnard, NY Times October 25, 2009 The fledgling political activists, ages 10 to 81, crowded into Donnie Whiteheadís remodeled backyard garage in St. Albans, Queens, for the first time since their crushing loss. They talked about ways to move forward ó educating voters, starting block associations ó but it all sounded small, somehow, compared with the last grand battle. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/26/nyregion/26race.html?_r=1&th&emc=th Tactics: Other Issues: Elections Country/Region: United States, North America Other Keywords: Actvists, Queens, Donnie Whitehead, Michael R. Bloomberg, William C. Thompson Jr.
US: "Showdown in Chicago"- protesters swarm bankers convention By: Huffington Post October 25, 2009 The American Bankers Association's annual convention in Chicago has become the scene for a series of major protests, which are set to continue through Tuesday. Sunday's events included a speech by Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) and a protest in front of the ABA's cocktail reception, an event which reportedly had a "Roaring '20s" theme. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/25/showdown-in-chicago-prote_n_333245.html Tactics: Protest Issues: Corruption Country/Region: United States, North America Other Keywords: American Bankers Association, Chicago, Dick Durbin
Singing flashmob hijacks health insurance conference By: Stephen Webster, Raw Story, Octobet 24, 2009 Theatrical protest group "Billionaires for Wealthcare" has done it again. During the American Health Insurance Plans' (AHIP) annual State issues conference in Washington, D.C. on Friday, Wealthcare members infiltrated the group and interrupted health industry pollster Bill McInturff's speech with cheers of thanks for his "good work." However, kind words floating from the back of the room at the Capitol Hilton Hotel quickly turned into a full-blown musical number thanking the insurers for blocking a public health insurance option, set to the tune of "Tomorrow, Tomorrow." http://rawstory.com/2009/10/singing-flashmob-hijacks-health-insurance-conference/ Tactics: Protest Issues: Other Issues Country/Region: United States, North America Other Keywords: Billionaires for Wealthcare, American Health Insurance Plans, Bill McInturff
AMERICAS: SOUTH AMERICA
Chile: Mapuche - protest against police violence By: UNPO October 23, 2009 Chile's Mapuche Indians marched in Temuco on Friday, October 23rd, to protest what they see as police repression in an increasingly bitter fight over ancestral lands. Confrontations between indigenous protesters and police have left at least one Mapuche dead and a number of protesters and police injured. The Mapuche community has accused the police of using increasingly violent tactics, especially against minors. http://www.unpo.org/content/view/10254/127/ Tactics: Protest Issues: Indigeneous Rights, Land Rights Country/Region: Chile, South America Other Keywords: Mapuche Indians, Temuco, police
Justice in Uruguay comes full circle By: Marcelo Garcia, The Guardian October 24, 2009 Uruguay may look to foreign eyes like an icon for reconciliation and justice. If the polls are right, JosÈ "Pepe" Mujica, a former Tupamaro guerrilla leader who was under arrest for 14 years, will be elected president ñ be it in the first round or a run-off on 29 November. And, at the same time, Uruguayans will vote in a binding referendum to repeal amnesty legislation passed in 1986 to shield human rights abusers during the 1973-85 military dictatorship from prosecution. http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2009/oct/24/uruguay-election-argentina-human-rights Tactics: Other Issues: Elections, Corruption, Human Rights Country/Region: Uruguay, South America Other Keywords: Jose "Pepe" Mujica, Tupamaro
Venezuela: Opposition unity panel ensures single candidates for 2010 election By: El Universal October 22, 2009 Antonio Ledezma, Caracas Metropolitan Mayor and a member of the opposition Unity Panel, vowed on Thursday to have single candidates for the election to Congress next year and urged all sectors to be united. "Unity is the path; unity is the way. And our fight is precisely making available to Venezuela all the potential, all the imagination for us not to fail when devising the mechanisms which will secure the conquests of those dates." http://english.eluniversal.com/2009/10/22/en_pol_art_opposition-unity-pan_22A2936371.shtml Tactics: Other Issues: Elections Country/Region: Venezuela, South America Other Keywords: Antonio Ledezma, Caracas, Unity Panel
Colombia rights defenders say they're under constant attack By: Sibylla Brodzinsky, Miami Herald October 21, 2009 Human rights defenders in Colombia are under constant attack for their work, facing murder, death threats, illegal surveillance, arbitrary detentions and prosecutions, activists told a congressional panel in Washington on Tuesday. Speaking before the House Human Rights Commission, Colombian activist Gabriel Gonzalez recounted how he spent more than a year in jail on charges of being a member of the country's leftist guerrillas. A judge threw out the charges as baseless, but the ruling was overturned and he could face another seven years in prison on the same accusation. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/americas/story/1292282.html Tactics: International/ Third Party Action Issues: Democratic Rights, Human Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Columbia, South America Other Keywords: House Human Rights Commission, Gabriel Gonzalez, Washington DC
ASIA: CENTRAL ASIA
Civil society activist detained in Turkmenistan By: CIVICUS October 23, 2009 Famous ecologist and civil society activist Andrey Zatoka, was detained in Dashovuz, Turkmenistan on his birthday, 20th October 2009, and is currently being held in jail on the grounds of ëhooliganismí, awaiting trial. International observers at Zatokaís trial are essential to ensure that the fundamental freedoms of Zakota and Turkmen civil society are maintained. Please write to your embassies in Turkmenistan and ask them to conduct an independent investigation into the case and support the granting of visas to international observers for the trial. For more information and a sample letter, click below. http://www.civicus.org/media/CIVICUS-Zatoka-letter23rd.pdf Tactics: International/ Third Party Action Issues: Democratic Rights, Human Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Turkmenistan, Central Asia Other Keywords: Andrey Zatoka, Dashovuz
Turkmenistan: Free detained activist By: Human Rights Watch, October 23, 2009 Turkmen authorities should immediately release an activist arrested on what appears to be politically motivated grounds, Human Rights Watch said today. Andrei Zatoka, a well known environmental activist, was detained on October 20, 2009, in Dashoguz, Turkmenistan. "Zatoka's arrest appears to be a clear move by Turkmen authorities to stifle his activism," said Rachel Denber, Europe and Central Asia deputy director at Human Rights Watch. "Authorities should let him go at once and drop any charges against him." http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/HRW/9f24d82bd2d024ef9e66e0f677102275.htm Tactics: International/ Third Party Action Issues: Democratic Rights, Human Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Turkmenistan, Central Asia Other Keywords: Andrey Zatoka, Dashovuz, Human Rights Watch, Rachel Denber
ASIA: EAST ASIA
Group says China has executed four for roles in Tibet riots By: Andrew Jacobs, NY Times, October 23, 2009 A Tibetan exile group in India says that the Chinese authorities have executed four people convicted for their roles in the riots that convulsed Tibet last year. According to the Tibetan Center for Human Rights and Democracy, the four were put to death on Tuesday, more than six months after they were tried and convicted of starting fires in the Tibetan capital, Lhasa, that killed seven people. Since then at least 84 people have been convicted during trials that rights groups say are opaque, cursory and unfair. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/24/world/asia/24china.html?ref=world Tactics: Other Issues: Human Rights, Democratic Rights Country/Region: China, East Asia Other Keywords: Tibet, Tibetan Center for Human Rights and Democracy, Lhasa
Tibetans protest alleged scam By: Lobsang Choephel, RFA, October 21, 2009 Hundreds of Tibetans claiming they were cheated in a pyramid scheme run by a purported health-products company are demanding their money back and staging protests in several Chinese cities, spokesmen for the group say. The groupís representatives, who want restitution from TIENS at its company headquarters in northeastern Tianjin municipality, said Tibetan investors were promised large returns on initial investments but have received nothing. Authorities in Tianjin and TIENS company officials have refused to comment. http://www.rfa.org/english/news/tibet/pyramidscheme-10202009170044.html Tactics: Protests Issues: Other Issues Country/Region: Tibet, East Asia Other Keywords: TIENS, Tianjin
ASIA: SOUTH ASIA
Afghan police open fire at demonstration By: Google News October 26, 2009 Afghan police Monday opened fire and turned a water cannon on demonstrators angry about allegations that Western troops torched a Koran, wounding at least three people, officials and witnesses said. Clashes erupted as police tried to prevent around 300 students, most of them men, from marching on parliament, the city's criminal investigation police chief, Sayed Abdul Ghafar Sayedzada, told AFP. http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iSwSuzz5Dk60oCYE92vi0cqM9odA Tactics: Masson Demonstrations/ Marches Issues: Other Issues Country/Region: Afghanistan, South Asia Other Keywords: Sayed Abdul Ghafar Zayedzada, Demonstrators, Police
Tibetans in Bangalore protest ahead of Chinese minister's India visit By: Sify News, October 26, 2009 Tibetans-in-exile here on Monday staged a silent protest against the visit of Chinese External Affairs Minister in India for a trilateral Foreign Ministers' meet. The Foreign Ministers of Russia, India and China will meet in Bangalore on Tuesday (Oct. 27). The protestors said that the border issue between the two countries could not be solved till Tibetan issue was solved. http://sify.com/news/Tibetans-in-Bangalore-protest-ahead-of-Chinese-Minister-39-s-India-visit-news-jk0xchfahbi.html Tactics: Protest Issues: Human Rights Country/Region: India, South Asia Other Keywords: Tibet, Bangalore, Yang Jiechi
ASIA: SOUTHEAST ASIA
Burma: Suu Kyi 'can play a role' By: BBC October 26, 2009 Burmese Prime Minister Thein Sein has told Asian leaders the detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi can contribute to national reconciliation. It was not clear if that meant Burma's military would allow her to take part in next year's elections. The leaders were strongly criticised by activists for their failure to demand more of Burma on ending military rule. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8325348.stm Tactics: Other Issues: Elections Country/Region: Burma, Southeast Asia Other Keywords: Thein Sein, Aung San Suu Kyi
Half a world away the struggle for freedom in Burma continues By: The Star October 25, 2009 Photographer Anne Bayin has chosen to tell the story of Burma through people's faces. She photographed Canadian artists and human rights activists and others wearing a half mask of the beautiful, solemn face of Aung San Suu Kyi, who leads Burma's democracy movement. http://www.thestar.com/news/insight/article/715822--half-a-world-away-the-struggle-for-freedom-in-burma-continues Tactics: Other Issues: Human Rights, Corruption Country/Region: Burma, Southeast Asia Other Keywords: Anne Bayin, Activists, Aung San Suu Kyi, Democracy Movement
Vietnam: Blogger and democracy activist beaten and arrested By: Sami Ben Gharbia, Global Voices Online October 23, 2009 Vietnamese authorities have arrested another blogger after sending nine internet activists to prison on two to six years terms for expressing their views on the internet. Tran Khai Thanh Thuy was arrested on the evening of October 8, 2009 after the police sent plain-clothes officers to her house to harass her, her husband, and their 13-year-old daughter. The officers hit Thuy with bricks, causing her a head injury. \ http://advocacy.globalvoicesonline.org/2009/10/23/vietnam-blogger-and-democracy-activist-tran-khai-thanh-thuy-beaten-and-arrested/ Tactics: Digital Activism Issues: Human Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Vietnam, Southeast Asia Other Keywords: Tran Khai Thanh Thuy, Police
Thailand: Civil society representatives barred from ASEAN summit By: Salai Pi Pi, Mizzima October 23, 2009 Member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have rejected a proposed meeting with five civil society representatives, including a Burmese delegate, at the 15th ASEAN summit to be held Hua Hin, Thailand. Debbie Stothard, Coordinator for the Alternative Asean Network (Altsean) said Thai Foreign Ministry officials informed the 10 representatives that five of them ñ the representatives from Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Philippines and Singapore ñ had been denied by their governments from attending an interface meeting with ASEAN leaders on Friday. Stothard added that the rejection in effect means ASEAN governments have already violated their own charter, which enshrines the concept of a ìpeople centric communityî. http://www.mizzima.com/news/regional/2954-civil-society-representatives-barred-from-asean-summit.html Tactics: International/ Third Party Action Issues: Other Country/Region: Thailand, Southeast Asia Other Keywords: Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Hua Hin, Debbie Stothard
EUROPE
Russia: St. Petersburgís ëgas-scraperí saga - culture turns political By: Dmitri Travin, Open Democracy October 26, 2009 On 19 October everyone in St.Petersburg who is even remotely interested in politics was talking about one thing only- the TV programme Vremya and its coverage of the Okhta Centre issue. Vremya is both Russia's main information program and the Kremlin's chief propaganda mouthpiece. The Okhta Centre may not be a government matter, but its coverage has turned it into a political sensation of national importance. http://www.opendemocracy.net/article/openrussia/st-petersburg-s-gas-scraper-saga-culture-turns-political Tactics: Other Issues: Freedom of Press, Democratic Rights Country/Region: Russia, Europe Other Keywords: Vremya, Kremlin, Okhta Centre
Russia: Opposition figure in Ingushetia is killed By: Philip Pan, Washington Post October 26, 2009 A popular opposition figure in Russia's restive Ingushetia province was gunned down Sunday morning in the latest killing of a government critic in the North Caucasus, prompting outrage from human rights groups and raising fears of further violence in the region. Maksharip Aushev, a businessman who had led mass protests against alleged abuses by the government's security forces, was driving on a major highway in the neighboring province of Kabardino-Balkaria when a passing vehicle sprayed his car with more than 60 bullets, authorities said. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/10/25/AR2009102502395.html Tactics: Protests Issues: Freedom of Expression, Human Rights Country/Region: Russia, Europe Other Keywords: Ingushetia, North Caucasus, Maksharip Aushev, Kabardino-Balkaria
Russia: After Aushev murder, 'To work in human rights in North Caucasus is suicidal' By: Kevin O'Flynn, RFE October 26, 2009 Rights activists say that the death of Maksharip Aushev, who was killed after the car he was driving was peppered by more than 60 bullets, shows that human rights work in the restive North Caucasus is tantamount to suicide. More than 3,000 people gathered on October 26 in Aushev's home town of Surkhakhi, about 10 kilometers outside Nazran in the Russian republic of Ingushetia, to bury the rights activist. Aushev, an Ingush activist and businessman, became the latest North Caucasus rights worker to fall victim to violence. http://www.rferl.org/content/Murdered_Russian_Campaigner_Buried_In_Ingushetia/1861262.html Tactics: Protests Issues: Freedom of Expression, Human Rights Country/Region: Russia, Europe Other Keywords: Maksharip Aushev, Surkhakhi, Ingushetia
UK: British Muslims for Secular Democracy plan counter demonstration By: Liberal Democrat Voice October 26, 2009 British Muslims for Secular Democracy today announces the launch of its plans to organise a demonstration on Saturday 31st October to counter a demonstration by Al Muhajiroun, at which they will call for the abolition of democracy in Britain and the imposition of Shariah Law on all. British Muslims for Secular Democracy are organising the counter demonstration, bringing together a number of religious and non-religious groups. http://www.libdemvoice.org/british-muslims-for-secular-democracy-plan-counter-demonstration-16652.html Tactics: Mass Demonstrations/Marches Issues: Other Issues Country/Region: UK, Europe Other Keywords: British Muslims for Democracy, Al Muhajiroun
UK: Protesters urge end to Afghan war By: BBC, October 24, 2009 Soldiers and military families were among an estimated 5,000 protesters in London demonstrating against UK military operations in Afghanistan. The Stop the War Coalition says it was the first march against the Afghan war since the conflict began in 2001. L/Cpl Joe Glenton, of York, who faces a court martial for refusing to return to Afghanistan, led the protest march. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8323163.stm Tactics: Mass Demonstrations/Marches Issues: War Country/Region: UK, Europe Other Keywords: Stop the War Coalition, Joe Glenton, War on Afghanistan
Belarusian authorities ìoverlookedî criticism of freedom of speech situation By: Charter97 October 23, 2009 According to the report of the human rights mission on the situation with freedom of expression in Belarus, the country still falls short of international standards. In the nearest future the structures of the European Union are to study this document, the European Radio for Belarus informs. As said by the International Federation of Journalistsí European Co-Director Marc Gruber, the document calls for a set of reforms dealing in particular with economic conditions for non-state media, access to information, accreditation of media and journalists as well as broadcasting licensing. http://www.charter97.org/en/news/2009/10/23/23077/ Tactics: International/Third Party Action Issues: Freedom of Expression, Freedom of Press, Human Rights, Democratic Rights Country/Region: Belarus, Europe Other Keywords: European Union, International Federation of Journalists, European Radio for Belarus
Italy: Mayors stage sit-in over toxic ship By: UPI October 21, 2009 Italy's environmental undersecretary agreed to tour the site of a toxic shipwreck Wednesday after 50 mayors staged a sit-in in Rome, the mayors say. Mayors from the Calabrian province of Cosenza went to the capital Tuesday to persuade the Italian government to take immediate action to recover the toxic waste a ship was carrying when it sank off the Calabrian coast, the Italian news agency ANSA reports. http://www.upi.com/Top_News/International/2009/10/21/Mayors-stage-sit-in-over-toxic-ship/UPI-96801256136571/ Tactics: Other Issues: Environment Country/Region: Italy, Europe Other Keywords: Cosenza, Rom, ANSA
MIDDLE EAST/ NORTH AFRICA
Iran's Karroubi under attack at rally By: UPI October 26, 2009 Karroubi came under attack by supporters of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at a press fair during the weekend in Tehran. Demonstrators reportedly attacked Karroubi, who challenged Ahmadinejad in June, with clubs and managed to remove his turban during the scuffle. Opposition Internet outlets in Iran called on supporters to attend the media event and chant slogans against a decision to close a series of newspapers. http://www.upi.com/Top_News/Special/2009/10/26/Irans-Karroubi-under-attack-at-rally/UPI-37981256579998/ Tactics: Digital Activism Issues: Freedom of Expression, Freedom of Press, Human Rights Country/Region: Iran, Middle East Other Keywords: Mehdi Karroubi, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, opposition
MP says Iran leader opposes direct talks with U.S. By: Hashem Kalantari, Reuters October 26, 2009 Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei opposes holding direct negotiations with the United States, newspapers on Monday quoted a senior lawmaker as saying. But Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said talks on the nuclear issue would continue within the framework of Tehran's contacts with six world powers, including the United States. http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSTRE59P0TC20091026 Tactics: Other Tactic Issues: Other Issues Country/Region: Iran, Middle East Other Keywords: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, United States, Manouchehr Mottaki
Iran: Death sentences for post-election protesters By: Iran Human Rights Voice October 26, 2009 Four months after the presidential election in Iran and the widespread mass demonstrations that followed, branch 15 of the revolutionary court, in its first round of sentencing, has convicted three people for their roles in post-election events and sentenced all three to death. Also, branch 28 of the revolutionary court found another individual guilty of similar offenses and issued another death sentence. http://www.ihrv.org/inf/?p=3110 Tactics: Other Issues: Human Rights, Democratic Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Iran, Middle East Other Keywords: Revolutionary Court, Demonstrators
U.N. reports on human rights in Iran By: VOA October 25, 2009 United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki Moon has issued a report to the U.N. General Assembly on human rights conditions in Iran. The report covers developments since June 2008, and focuses attention on what occurred in Iran after the presidential election in June 2009. http://www.voanews.com/uspolicy/2009-10-25-voa6.cfm Tactics: International/Third Party Action Issues: Human Rights, Democratic Rights Country/Region: Iran, Middle East Other Keywords: UN, Ban Ki Moon, UN General Assembly
Mass arrests during prayer service for activists in Iran By: Amnesty International October 23, 2009 The Iranian authorities must immediately release dozens of people arrested on Thursday during a prayer service in support of activists detained following protests after Juneís presidential election, Amnesty International has said. The prayer service was organized by the family of Shahaboddin Tabatabaei, a prominent supporter of presidential candidate Mir Hossein Mousavi, who was jailed for five years earlier this week for state security offences relating to the post-election unrest. http://www.amnesty.org/en/news-and-updates/news/mass-arrests-during-prayer-service-activists-iran-20091023 Tactics: International/Third Party Action Issues: Human Rights, Democratic Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Iran, Middle East Other Keywords: Amnesty International, Shahaboddin Tabatabaei, Mir Hossein Mousavi
Iran is said to arrest wives of many prominent detainees By: Nazila Fathi, NY Times October 23, 2009 Iranian authorities arrested the wives and family members of a number of high-profile political detainees at a religious ceremony in Tehran, several reformist Web sites reported Friday. The raid happened Thursday after the family members of one detainee, Shahab Tabatabee, announced on the Web site Norooz News that they were holding a prayer ceremony for his release. Officers arrested nearly all the guests except for several young women who were attending with infants and toddlers. http://demopedia.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=102&topic_id=4117225&mesg_id=4117225 Tactics: Other Issues: Human Rights, Democratic Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Iran, Middle East Other Keywords: Tehran, Norooz News, Shahab Tabatabaei
More Iranian injustice By: NY Times October 23, 2009 The journalist Maziar Bahari joined his pregnant wife in London this week after being freed from an Iranian prison where he had been held for five months. That is welcome news, but it would be a mistake to think that the mullahs who run the government had been seized with humanitarian spirit. If anything, they seem more determined to shift the blame for the unrest that followed the fraudulent June 12 election to America and other ìforeigners.î http://www.freekian09.org/2009/10/24/more-iranian-injustice-source-new-york-times/ Tactics: Other Issues: Human Rights, Freedom of Press Country/Region: Iran, Middle East Other Keywords: Maziar Bahari, London, Mullahs
Lashes for Saudi woman journalist By: BBC October 24, 2009 A female journalist in Saudi Arabia has been sentenced to 60 lashes over a TV show in which a Saudi man described his extra-marital sex life. The programme, made by Lebanese satellite network LBC, caused a huge scandal in conservative Saudi Arabia when it was shown several months ago. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/8324117.stm Tactics: Other Issues: Freedom of Press, Human Rights, Democratic Rights Country/Region: Saudia Arabia, Middle East/North Africa Other Keywords: LBC (Lebanese satellite network)
Egypt's Brotherhood is knocking By: LA Times October 24, 2009 He doesn't seem a radical or a troublemaker, but to the Egyptian government, Abdel Fattah Rizk, a surgeon with a graying mustache and hands pink from scrubbing, is a man to be watched. The government of President Hosni Mubarak paints the Brotherhood as an extremist organization with terrorist ties determined to impose strict Islamic law across Egypt. The group says it renounced violence decades ago, and its real threat to the ruling party is its appeal to the educated and middle class, who view the regime as corrupt and too beholden to the West. http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-muslim-brotherhood24-2009oct24,0,7135490.story Tactics: Other Issues: Democratic Rights Country/Region: Egypt, Middle East/North Africa Other Keywords: Abdel Fattah Rizk, Hosni Mubarak, Muslim Brotherhood
Tunisia's wretched opposition By: Bassam Bounenni, The Guardian October 24, 2009 Tunisia's opposition has never been so divided. Two of the most influential official parties, the Progressive Democratic party (PDP) and the Democratic Forum for Labour and Liberties (FTDL), are boycotting tomorrow's election, while the Ettajdid (Renewal) movement is still in the running, despite considerable restrictions. Non-recognised opposition parties, including the Islamist Ennahda movement, the Communist Party of Tunisian Workers (PCOT) and the Congress for the Republic (CPR), called its participation "irresponsible". http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/oct/24/tunisia-election-reform-opposition Tactics: Boycott Issues: Elections Country/Region: Tunisia, Middle East/North Africa Other Keywords: Progressive Democratic Party, Democratic Forum for Labour and Liberties, Ettajdid (renewal) Movement
Tunisia: Government cracks down on press freedoms, opposition before elections By: LA Times October 23, 2009 Ben Ali has introduced constitutional amendments to allow himself to run for another term, limit the number of opposition candidates and guarantee his Constitutional Democratic Rally an overwhelming majority in parliament. The U.S.-based advocacy group Committee to Protect Journalists has criticized the Tunisian government for its news media crackdown, including the arrests and violent attacks on critical Tunisian writers. This week, French reporter Florence Beauge was detained while attempting to enter the country and sent back to Paris. http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/babylonbeyond/2009/10/tunisia-government-cracks-down-on-press-freedoms-opposition-before-elections.html Tactics: International/ Third Party Action Issues: Human Rights, Democratic Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: Tunisia, Middle East/North Africa Other Keywords: Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, Committee to Protect Journalists, Florence Beauge
Tunisia: Beyond illusions of change By: Amel Boubekeur, Open Democracy October 23, 2009 The president of Tunisia, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, is guaranteed to be re-elected for a fifth term in the country's presidential election on 25 October 2009. This certain outcome both reveals the authoritarianism of this north African and Arab country and underlines how far the international community continues to accept such a reality without question. http://www.opendemocracy.net/article/tunisia/tunisia-beyond-illusions-of-change Tactics: Other Issues: Elections Country/Region: Tunisia, Middle East/North Africa Other Keywords: Zine El Abidine Ben Ali
OCEANIA
West Papua: Urgent appeal on Victor Yiemo arrest By: Free West Papua October 2009 Victor Yiemo, the chairman of the National Committee of West Papua, a student-based organization, campaigning for a UN-sponsored referendum in Papua, has been arrested by police in Jayapura for his involvement in three peaceful protests. His arrest is a further sign that the Indonesian authorities are stepping up their crackdown against Papuans. Yeimo has always advocated a peaceful solution to West Papua's future. http://freewestpapua.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1047&Itemid=2 Tactics: Protests Issues: Human Rights, Democratic Rights, Freedom of Expression Country/Region: West Papua, Oceania Other Keywords: Victor Yiemo, National Committee of West Papua, Jayapura
ARTICLES OF INTEREST
The power of one of many By: Bryan Farrell, Waging Nonviolence October 26, 2009 The International Day of Climate Action appears to have gone off as planned, with many journalists calling it the most widespread day of political action in history. The 350.org website is being flooded with photos from around the world and blog updates from the always inspiring Bill McKibben. Here in New York City, Eric, Nathan and I attended a march across the Brooklyn Bridge with a few hundred others. Many carried homemade signs and burst into spontaneous chants (like ìAinít no power like renewable power ícause renewable power donít stop). http://wagingnonviolence.org/2009/10/the-power-of-one-of-many/ Tactics: Mass Demonstrations/ Marches Issues: Environment Country/Region: Global Other Keywords: International Day of Climate Action, 350.org, Bill McKibben
Activists turn up the heat on climate By: Jeannie Nuss and Hannah McBride, Boston Globe October 25, 2009 Schools of environmentalists clad in snorkels, inner tubes, swim caps, and wellies flocked to Boston Harbor yesterday to raise awareness about climate change. A man wrapped in a wet suit slid belly down near the crowd of 200 people gathered at Christopher Columbus Park, home to one of more than 5,200 events in 181 countries organized for the 350.org International Day of Climate Action. http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/10/25/activists_turn_up_the_heat_on_climate/ Tactics: Other Issues: Environment Country/Region: United States, North America Other Keywords: 350.org, International Day of Climate Action
International day of demonstrations on climate change By: CNN October 24, 2009 From seabeds to mountaintops, people around the world were staging a day of demonstrations Saturday to call for urgent action on climate change. The events were being coordinated by a group called 350.org, whose name refers to the parts per million of carbon dioxide it considers the safe upper limit for our atmosphere. The group said it wants to "inspire the world to rise to the challenge of the climate crisis" ahead of the United Nations climate change conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December. http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/europe/10/24/international.climate.change.demonstrations/index.html Tactics: Mass Demonstrations/Marches Issues: Environment Country/Region: Global Other Keywords: 350.org, United Nations Climate Conference, Copenhagen
Campaign against emissions picks number By: Andrew Revkin, NY Times October 24, 2009 Campaigners against global warming have drawn on an arsenal of visually startling tactics over the years, from posing nude on a Swiss glacier to scaling smokestacks at coal-fired power plants. On Saturday, they tried something new with the goal of prodding countries to get serious about reaching an international climate accord: a synchronized burst of more than 4,300 demonstrations, from the Himalayas to the Great Barrier Reef, all centered on the number 350. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/25/science/earth/25threefifty.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=350&st=cse Tactics: Mass Demonstrations/Marches Issues: Environment Country/Region: Global Other Keywords: 350.org
Twittering the tyrants - new media's role in authoritarian regimes By: Heather Maher, RFE October 24, 2009 New media websites like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube have opened a window of freedom for people living in closed societies around the world. Whether by "tweeting" information to their fellow citizens, posting videos online, or publishing non-state-controlled news stories, democracy advocates have embraced new technologies. With it, they are organizing protests, recruiting others to their cause, exposing corruption, and shining a light on human rights abuses. http://www.rferl.org/content/Twittering_The_Tyrants_New_Medias_Role_In_Authoritarian_Regimes/1860083.html Tactics: Digital Activism Issues: Corruption, Human Rights Country/Region: Global Other Keywords: Facebook, Twitter, Youtube
Cyber resistance By: Dahr Jamail, Truthout October 23, 2009 If technology has transformed warfare into a spectacle of shock and awe, its contribution to the cause of dissent has been no less remarkable. It has enabled solidarities across borders and facilitated networks and forums dedicated to impartial communication of ground realities beyond the sanitized projection of mainstream news. True, technological advances have not brought an end to either occupation, but it has certainly helped alternative voices and views to be heard. http://www.truthout.org/10230910 Tactics: Digital Activism Issues: Corruption, Human Rights Country/Region: Global Other Keywords: Technology, Activism
Pranksters fixing the world By: Mark Engler, Yes! Magazine October 21, 2009 Over the past 10 years, the Yes Men have emerged as an infamously daring and creative duo of anti-corporate pranksters. In their new movie, The Yes Men Fix the World, Andy Bichlbaum and Mike Bonanno (known in their non-activist lives as Jacques Servin and Igor Vamos) explain their methodology: "What we do is pass ourselves off as representatives of big corporations we don't like," they say. "We make fake websites, then wait for people to accidentally invite us to conferences." http://www.yesmagazine.org/people-power/pranksters-fixing-the-world/ Tactics: Drama/Theatre/Humor Issues: Corruption Country/Region: United States, North America Other Keywords: Yes Men, Yes Men Fix the World, Andy Bichlbaum, Mike Bonanno
Guinness world record shattered by citizens across globe demanding that their leaders end poverty By: Stand Up October 20, 2009 A Guinness World Record shattered this weekend when 173,045,325 citizens gathered at over 3,000 events in more than 120 countries, demanding that their governments eradicate extreme poverty and achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). ìStand Up, Take Action, End Poverty Now!î, now in its fourth year, has been certified by Guinness World Records as the largest mobilization of human beings in recorded history, an increase of about 57 million people over last year. http://standagainstpoverty.org/content/guinness-world-record-shattered-citizens-across-globe-demanding-their-leaders-end-poverty Tactics: Mass Demonstrations/Marches Issues: Poverty Country/Region: Global Other Keywords: Millennium Development Goals, "Stand up, Take Action, End Poverty Now!", Guinness World Records
BOOK REVIEW
New book: People power- unarmed resistance and global solidarity By: Howard Clark, PCDN October 25, 2009 People Power: Unarmed Resistance and Global Solidarity - edited by PCDN member Howard Clark and with chapters by several other PCDN members - has now been published by Pluto Press, London (US distributor is Palgrave Macmillan). Transnational solidarity can be crucial for movements of nonviolent struggle ñ in helping them emerge, in accessing contacts and resources, and in applying leverage on a regime or corporation. However, some ìtransnational advocacy networksî have been criticized for ìtaking overî from local organizers and ultimately having a disempowering impact. The starting point of this book is that the prime role for transnational solidarity is to strengthen the counter-power of those resisting domination and oppression. http://www.internationalpeaceandconflict.org/forum/topic/show?id=780588%3ATopic%3A184895&xgs=1 Tactics: Other Issues: Other Issues Country/Region: Global Other Keywords: Howard Clark, Solidarity, Nonviolent Movements
NOTICES
Crisis in Honduras - A special forum By: Action Notice Center, Axis of Logic October 25, 2009 Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 6:00pm - 9:00pm, New York, NY the International Action Center will host the video premier of "Honduras: A People in Resistance." http://axisoflogic.com/artman/publish/Article_57305.shtml Tactics: Other Issues: Coup d'etat Country/Region: United States, North America Other Keywords: Honduras, "Honduras: A People in Resistance"
Show your support for the upcoming Global Day of Action against the Shwe gas pipeline projects in Burma By: Shwe Campaign October 2009 On October 28, the Shwe Gas Movement plans to facilitate a Global Day or Action, to suspend the Shwe gas Pipeline project in Burma. The project will, if allowed to go ahead, cut a 980 km corridor through Burma and have a devastating impact for the people of Burma and the region. On October 28, the Shwe Gas Movement and supporting organizations plan to submit a letter to the Chinese President Hu Jintao, as he has the power to suspend the project, and we are humbly requesting as many organizations to endorse the letter. http://www.shwe.org/Attachments/Global%20Call%20to%20Action_28%20October%202009.pdf Tactics: International/ Third Party Action Issues: Environment Country/Region: Burma, Southeast Asia Other Keywords: Shwe Gas Movement, Global Day of Action, Hu Jianto