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May

Football Day, World (1924): May 25

06:20 AM | -

WORLD FOOTBALL DAY—CELEBRATING THE SPORT'S GLOBAL IMPACT

The United Nations General Assembly declared May 25 World Football Day, recognizing the sport's profound influence on peace, development, and global unity. The resolution, adopted on May 9, 2024, celebrates the centenary of the first international football tournament held at the 1924 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, a historic event that marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition of international football and international cooperation in sports.

Reaffirming the role of sport as a vital enabler of sustainable development, the General Assembly highlighted football's significant contribution to fostering tolerance, respect, and empowerment across various communities. The resolution underscores football's unique ability to promote physical and mental health, education, and above all, social inclusion, thereby inspiring positive change in the lives of youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

Football's universal popularity is not just a testament to its appeal, but also a powerful tool for promoting peace, development, and human rights, the resolution states. The sport has a unique ability to break down barriers, combat discrimination, and inspire positive change, making it an invaluable asset in our collective efforts towards a better world.

The proclamation of World Football Day aims to raise public awareness of critical issues such as climate change and health through high-profile events and the involvement of athletes and teams.

The UN strongly calls upon member states to actively support football as a means of fostering social inclusion and intercultural dialogue. It urges the adoption of policies that promote sports at national and local levels, emphasizing the crucial role of member states in contributing to the global football community and the broader societal benefits that can be reaped from such support.

The resolution commends nations hosting significant international football events and encourages them to ensure these events leave a lasting legacy of global peace and sportsmanship. It also highlights initiatives like Football for the Goals, which engage the international football community in advocating for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting sustainability practices.

The UN invites all member states, international organizations, civil society, and other stakeholders to observe World Football Day with educational and public awareness activities. The goal is to celebrate football's benefits and role in uniting people across the globe.

The UN hopes to harness the sport's unifying power to inspire action towards a more peaceful and inclusive world.

Africa

May

Football Day, World (1924): May 25

06:20 AM | -

WORLD FOOTBALL DAY—CELEBRATING THE SPORT'S GLOBAL IMPACT

Africa

Jul

Snap Election, United Kingdom (UK): July 4

06:20 AM | -

SNAP ELECTION IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced on May 22, 2024, that a British snap election will be held on July 4, 2024. This election will determine the composition of the House of Commons and the United Kingdom's next government.

SNAP VS GENERAL ELECTION

The prime minister is required to call a general election by the end of autumn 2024. Rather than wait until November, Sunak called for a snap election in July. What is the difference between a general election and a snap election?

GENERAL ELECTION

a) Regularly Scheduled: General elections occur regularly, usually every five years.

b) Purpose: They are used to elect Members of Parliament (MPs) to the House of Commons to form a new government.

c) Predictable: The general election date is typically known well in advance, allowing for a standard election campaign period.

SNAP ELECTION

a) Called Early: Often unexpectedly, Snap elections are called before the fixed term's end.

b) Triggering circumstances include:

A vote of no confidence in the government followed by a failure to form a new government within 14 days.
At least two-thirds of the House of Commons agrees on a motion for an early general election.

c) Purpose: Like general elections, snap elections also elect MPs to the House of Commons and aim to form a new government, but they occur outside the regular election cycle.

d) Less Predictable: The timing of snap elections is often a strategic decision by the government, catching opposition parties and the electorate off guard.

Both snap and general elections serve the same fundamental purpose of electing MPs and forming a government; their key differences lie in their timing and the conditions under which they are called.

CURRENT POLITICAL LANDSCAPE

In addition to the two largest parties, Labour and Conservatives (Tories), the United Kingdom includes several influential political groups vying for seats in parliament. Many will win a small minority of available seats. However, early polling data favor Labour to win the most seats in July, with voters citing fatigue and frustration over various policies and positions under the past two decades of Conservative leadership.

The July snap election evolved amid these various political challenges and may significantly reshape the United Kingdom's political landscape. Following the election, the party with the most seats in the House of Commons will choose the next prime minister, which the sovereign may then accept or reject.

UNITED KINGDOM GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE 101

The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy, with the sovereign (Crown) as head of state.

The Parliament of the United Kingdom is bicameral (two chambers): the House of Lords and the House of Commons. Together, they legislate.

The House of Lords includes hereditary membership and Crown appointees.

The House of Commons is elected every five years. It represents the people and has the most collective power.

Laws are created in the Commons and approved in the Lords.

The Prime Minister is a member of the House of Commons. As a parliamentarian-style government, coalitions are formed after elections, giving less popular parties winning seats in the Commons a say and influence in how the government runs and the laws of the land.

The British election cycle is typically six weeks.

Africa

Jul

Snap Election, United Kingdom (UK): July 4

06:20 AM | -

SNAP ELECTION IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

SNAP VS GENERAL ELECTION

A vote of no confidence in the government followed by a failure to form a new government within 14 days.
At least two-thirds of the House of Commons agrees on a motion for an early general election.

CURRENT POLITICAL LANDSCAPE

UNITED KINGDOM GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE 101

Africa

Apr

India General Elections (IN): April 19 - June 1

06:20 AM | -

INDIA VOTES IN 2024

India, with a population of over 1.3 billion people, of whom 900 million are eligible to vote, is considered the world's largest democracy. Its general elections, held every six years, are a cornerstone of its democratic fabric and have a storied history marked by significant milestones and transformative changes.

HISTORY OF INDIA'S ELECTIONS

1951-52: The Dawn of Democracy

India held its first general elections in 1951-52, a monumental event for the newly independent nation. Over 173 million citizens were eligible to vote, and the Indian National Congress (INC), led by Jawaharlal Nehru, emerged victorious, setting the stage for a democratic governance model in the world's largest democracy.

1967: The Era of Coalitions Begins

The fourth general election in 1967 marked a significant shift. Though still in power, the India National Congress witnessed a decline in its dominance, leading to the rise of regional parties and coalition politics. This period saw the political landscape diversify, reflecting the country's complex socio-political fabric.

1977: Democracy Triumphs

The 1977 elections were a watershed moment, held after the controversial Emergency period (1975-77) imposed by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The electorate responded by voting the India National Congress out of power for the first time, bringing the Janata Party, a coalition of opposition parties, to the forefront. This election underscored the resilience of India's democratic institutions.

1984: A Sympathy Wave

The 1984 general elections followed the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Now led by her son Rajiv Gandhi, the India National Congress won an unprecedented majority, capitalizing on national sympathy. This election highlighted the emotional undercurrents that could influence Indian politics.

1991: Liberalization and Reform

The 1991 elections occurred in the shadow of Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's assassination. The India National Congress, led by P.V. Narasimha Rao, returned to power. This period is notable for economic liberalization and significant policy reforms that opened India's economy to global markets, marking a new era of economic transformation.

1998-1999: Coalition Politics and Stability

The late 1990s saw the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerge as a significant political force. The 1998 and subsequent 1999 elections led to the formation of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. These elections solidified coalition politics as a norm in Indian governance, reflecting the fragmented political mandates of the electorate.

2004: The UPA Era

In 2004, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), a coalition led by the India National Congress party under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi, won the general elections. Manmohan Singh, an economist and former finance minister, became the Prime Minister. This period saw significant policy initiatives, including introducing the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA).

2014: A Modi Wave

The 2014 general elections were a turning point, with the BJP, led by Narendra Modi, winning a decisive mandate. Modi's campaign focused on development, governance, and economic reform, appealing to a broad spectrum of voters. More controversially, he promotes a version of Hindu nationalism that targets minority faiths in the country, primarily India's 200 million Muslims. The BJP's victory marked the first time a non-Congress party secured a majority since 1984.

2019: Consolidating Power

In 2019, the BJP and its allies in the NDA secured another substantial victory, with Modi continuing as Prime Minister. The election underscored the BJP's stronghold in Indian politics, driven by a combination of nationalist rhetoric, development promises, and social welfare initiatives.

Current Landscape

As India moves towards future elections, the political landscape evolves with new players, issues, and dynamics shaping the democratic discourse. Nationalism is on the rise, and throughout Modi's rule, freedom of the press, social justice and civil rights continue to be undermined, suppressed and sidelined. Though billions in advertising dollars continue to be allocated to the current election, voter turnout has been meager. Following June 1, 2024, voters will reveal the future of India's democracy.

INDIA'S TOP FIVE POLITICAL PARTIES

India's political landscape is characterized by many parties, each with its unique ideology and base of support. Here is a summary of the five most influential:

1. Indian National Congress (INC)
Founded: 1885
Ideology: Center-left, secularism, social democracy

Key Leaders: Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi

Influence: As one of the oldest political parties in India, the INC played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement. Post-independence, it dominated Indian politics for several decades, spearheading major social and economic reforms. Despite recent electoral setbacks, the INC remains a significant player in national and state politics, advocating for inclusive growth, social justice, and secularism.

2. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
Founded: 1980
Ideology: Right-wing, Hindu nationalism, conservatism

Key Leaders: Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Lal Krishna Advani, Narendra Modi, Amit Shah

Influence: The BJP has emerged as the principal political force in India, especially after its decisive victories in the 2014 and 2019 general elections under Narendra Modi's leadership. The party promotes policies aligned with Hindu nationalist ideals and has focused on economic reforms, national security, and a strong central government. Its influence spans numerous states, making it a dominant force in Indian politics.

3. Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)]
Founded: 1964
Ideology: Left-wing, Marxism-Leninism

Key Leaders: E.M.S. Namboodiripad, Jyoti Basu, Prakash Karat, Sitaram Yechury

Influence: The CPI(M) has been a significant player in Indian politics, particularly in states like West Bengal, Kerala, and Tripura. It advocates for workers' rights, land reforms, and social justice, often leading mass movements and strikes. Although its national influence has waned, it remains a potent force in regional politics and continues to shape leftist discourse in India.

4. All India Trinamool Congress (AITC or TMC)
Founded: 1998
Ideology: Center to center-left, populism, regionalism

Key Leaders: Mamata Banerjee

Influence: The TMC, led by Mamata Banerjee, has become a dominant political force in West Bengal. It was formed as a breakaway faction of the INC and has since established itself as a key player in state and national politics. The party focuses on regional issues, social welfare programs, and development, often positioning itself as a staunch opponent of BJP's policies.

5. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)
Founded: 1984
Ideology: Social justice, Dalit empowerment, secularism

Key Leaders: Kanshi Ram, Mayawati

Influence: The BSP represents the interests of Dalits, Adivasis, OBCs, and other marginalized communities. Under Mayawati's leadership, it has been a crucial force in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state, and has held power there multiple times. The party's focus on social justice and equality has influenced national discourse on caste and marginalization.

These five parties have played critical roles in shaping India's political landscape, each contributing to the country's dynamic and multifaceted democracy.

Africa

Apr

India General Elections (IN): April 19 - June 1

06:20 AM | -

INDIA VOTES IN 2024India, with a population of over 1.3 billion people, of whom 900 million are eligible to vote, is considered the world's largest democracy. Its general elections, held every six years, are a cornerstone of its democratic fabric and have a storied history marked by significant milestones and transformative changes.1951-52: The Dawn of DemocracyIndia held its first general elections in 1951-52, a monumental event for the newly independent nation. Over 173 million citizens were eligible to vote, and the Indian National Congress (INC), led by Jawaharlal Nehru, emerged victorious, setting the stage for a democratic governance model in the world's largest democracy.1967: The Era of Coalitions BeginsThe fourth general election in 1967 marked a significant shift. Though still in power, the India National Congress witnessed a decline in its dominance, leading to the rise of regional parties and coalition politics. This period saw the political landscape diversify, reflecting the country's complex socio-political fabric.1977: Democracy TriumphsThe 1977 elections were a watershed moment, held after the controversial Emergency period (1975-77) imposed by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The electorate responded by voting the India National Congress out of power for the first time, bringing the Janata Party, a coalition of opposition parties, to the forefront. This election underscored the resilience of India's democratic institutions.1984: A Sympathy WaveThe 1984 general elections followed the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Now led by her son Rajiv Gandhi, the India National Congress won an unprecedented majority, capitalizing on national sympathy. This election highlighted the emotional undercurrents that could influence Indian politics.1991: Liberalization and ReformThe 1991 elections occurred in the shadow of Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's assassination. The India National Congress, led by P.V. Narasimha Rao, returned to power. This period is notable for economic liberalization and significant policy reforms that opened India's economy to global markets, marking a new era of economic transformation.1998-1999: Coalition Politics and StabilityThe late 1990s saw the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerge as a significant political force. The 1998 and subsequent 1999 elections led to the formation of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. These elections solidified coalition politics as a norm in Indian governance, reflecting the fragmented political mandates of the electorate.2004: The UPA EraIn 2004, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), a coalition led by the India National Congress party under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi, won the general elections. Manmohan Singh, an economist and former finance minister, became the Prime Minister. This period saw significant policy initiatives, including introducing the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA).2014: A Modi WaveThe 2014 general elections were a turning point, with the BJP, led by Narendra Modi, winning a decisive mandate. Modi's campaign focused on development, governance, and economic reform, appealing to a broad spectrum of voters. More controversially, he promotes a version of Hindu nationalism that targets minority faiths in the country, primarily India's 200 million Muslims. The BJP's victory marked the first time a non-Congress party secured a majority since 1984.2019: Consolidating PowerIn 2019, the BJP and its allies in the NDA secured another substantial victory, with Modi continuing as Prime Minister. The election underscored the BJP's stronghold in Indian politics, driven by a combination of nationalist rhetoric, development promises, and social welfare initiatives.Current LandscapeAs India moves towards future elections, the political landscape evolves with new players, issues, and dynamics shaping the democratic discourse. Nationalism is on the rise, and throughout Modi's rule, freedom of the press, social justice and civil rights continue to be undermined, suppressed and sidelined. Though billions in advertising dollars continue to be allocated to the current election, voter turnout has been meager. Following June 1, 2024, voters will reveal the future of India's democracy.INDIA'S TOP FIVE POLITICAL PARTIESIndia's political landscape is characterized by many parties, each with its unique ideology and base of support. Here is a summary of the five most influential:1. Indian National Congress (INC)Founded: 1885Ideology: Center-left, secularism, social democracyKey Leaders: Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul GandhiInfluence: As one of the oldest political parties in India, the INC played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement. Post-independence, it dominated Indian politics for several decades, spearheading major social and economic reforms. Despite recent electoral setbacks, the INC remains a significant player in national and state politics, advocating for inclusive growth, social justice, and secularism.2. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)Founded: 1980Ideology: Right-wing, Hindu nationalism, conservatismKey Leaders: Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Lal Krishna Advani, Narendra Modi, Amit ShahInfluence: The BJP has emerged as the principal political force in India, especially after its decisive victories in the 2014 and 2019 general elections under Narendra Modi's leadership. The party promotes policies aligned with Hindu nationalist ideals and has focused on economic reforms, national security, and a strong central government. Its influence spans numerous states, making it a dominant force in Indian politics.3. Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)]Founded: 1964Ideology: Left-wing, Marxism-LeninismKey Leaders: E.M.S. Namboodiripad, Jyoti Basu, Prakash Karat, Sitaram YechuryInfluence: The CPI(M) has been a significant player in Indian politics, particularly in states like West Bengal, Kerala, and Tripura. It advocates for workers' rights, land reforms, and social justice, often leading mass movements and strikes. Although its national influence has waned, it remains a potent force in regional politics and continues to shape leftist discourse in India.4. All India Trinamool Congress (AITC or TMC)Founded: 1998Ideology: Center to center-left, populism, regionalismKey Leaders: Mamata BanerjeeInfluence: The TMC, led by Mamata Banerjee, has become a dominant political force in West Bengal. It was formed as a breakaway faction of the INC and has since established itself as a key player in state and national politics. The party focuses on regional issues, social welfare programs, and development, often positioning itself as a staunch opponent of BJP's policies.5. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)Founded: 1984Ideology: Social justice, Dalit empowerment, secularismKey Leaders: Kanshi Ram, MayawatiInfluence: The BSP represents the interests of Dalits, Adivasis, OBCs, and other marginalized communities. Under the leadership of Mayawati, it has been a crucial force in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state, and has held power there multiple times. The party's focus on social justice and equality has influenced national discourse on caste and marginalization.These five parties have played critical roles in shaping India's political landscape, each contributing to the country's dynamic and multifaceted democracy.

Africa

Apr

India General Elections (IN): April 19 - June 1

06:20 AM | -

Africa

Jun

Srebrenica Genocide, International Day of Reflection for (1995): July 11

06:20 AM | -

UN General Assembly Declares July 11 as International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of Srebrenica Genocide

On Thursday, May 23, 2024, the UN General Assembly designated July 11 as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of Genocide Jully 11-19, 1995, in Srebrenica, Yugoslavia (Bosnia). At least 8,372 people were killed, thousands displaced, and entire communities destroyed.

The resolution, adopted with the same title, also requested the Secretary-General to establish an outreach program on the Srebrenica genocide in preparation for the 30th anniversary next year.

In addition, the Assembly condemned any denial of the Srebrenica genocide and called on Member States to preserve the facts through educational systems, aiming to prevent denial, distortion, and future occurrences of genocide.

The resolution, sponsored by Germany and Rwanda, was adopted by a recorded vote of 84 nations in favor, 19 against, and 68 abstentions.

THE SREBRENICA GENOCIDE

The Srebrenica genocide represents one of the darkest chapters of the war that followed the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. In July 1995, the Bosnian Serb army overran Srebrenica, a town declared a safe area by the Security Council and brutally murdered thousands of men and teenagers. The Bosnian Serb forces also expelled 20,000 people from the city. A small and lightly armed unit of Dutch peacekeepers under the UN flag was unable to resist the Bosnian Serb forces.

The brutal killings of Bosnian Muslims in Srebrenica by the army of Republika Srpska have been recognized as genocide by the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

GLOBAL REACTION TO THE NEW DAY

Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, welcomed the resolution as "further recognition" of the victims and survivors and their pursuit of justice, truth, and guarantees of non-recurrence.

"The resolution is all the more important given the persistent revisionism, denial of the Srebrenica genocide, and hate speech by high-level political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as in neighboring countries," Türk stated.

GERMANY: Antje Leendertse, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Germany to the UN, stated that the initiative was about honoring the victims and supporting survivors "who continue to live with scars of that fateful time."

Leendertse clarified that the resolution "is not directed against anybody" but is aimed at the perpetrators of the genocide.

SERBIA: President Aleksandar Vučić of Serbia criticized the resolution as "highly politicized," claiming it would "open a Pandora's box."

"This is not about reconciliation, not about memories; this is something that will just open an old wound and create complete political havoc. Not only in our region but even here, in this hall," he argued.

The commemoration of the day and remembrance of the event was established during the week leaders in Israel and Palestine's Gaza Strip were issued memorandum of intent to secure arrest warrants by the ICC for the unfolding genocide in Gaza, which has displaced 2.3 million people, killed over 35,000 and destroyed 80% of all housing, infrastructure and culture in a besieged area the size of the island of Manhattan in New York City. Like Serbia, those accused deny they're guilty of anything.

Africa

Jul

Srebrenica Genocide, International Day of Reflection for (1995): July 11

06:20 AM | -

UN General Assembly Declares July 11 as International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of Srebrenica Genocide

THE SREBRENICA GENOCIDE

GLOBAL REACTION TO THE NEW DAY

Africa

Jul

Srebrenica Genocide, International Day of Reflection for (1995): July 11

06:20 AM | -

UN General Assembly Declares July 11 as International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of Srebrenica Genocide On Thursday, May 23, 2024, the UN General Assembly designated July 11 as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of Genocide Jully 11-19, 1995, in Srebrenica, Yugoslavia (Bosnia). At least 8,372 people were killed, thousands displaced, and entire communities destroyed. The resolution, adopted with the same title, also requested the Secretary-General to establish an outreach program on the Srebrenica genocide in preparation for the 30th anniversary next year. In addition, the Assembly condemned any denial of the Srebrenica genocide and called on Member States to preserve the facts through educational systems, aiming to prevent denial, distortion, and future occurrences of genocide. The resolution, sponsored by Germany and Rwanda, was adopted by a recorded vote of 84 nations in favor, 19 against, and 68 abstentions. THE SREBRENICA GENOCIDE The Srebrenica genocide represents one of the darkest chapters of the war that followed the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. In July 1995, the Bosnian Serb army overran Srebrenica, a town declared a safe area by the Security Council and brutally murdered thousands of men and teenagers. The Bosnian Serb forces also expelled 20,000 people from the city. A small and lightly armed unit of Dutch peacekeepers under the UN flag was unable to resist the Bosnian Serb forces. The brutal killings of Bosnian Muslims in Srebrenica by the army of Republika Srpska have been recognized as genocide by the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ). GLOBAL REACTION TO THE NEW DAY Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, welcomed the resolution as "further recognition" of the victims and survivors and their pursuit of justice, truth, and guarantees of non-recurrence. "The resolution is all the more important given the persistent revisionism, denial of the Srebrenica genocide, and hate speech by high-level political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as in neighboring countries," Türk stated. GERMANY: Antje Leendertse, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Germany to the UN, stated that the initiative was about honoring the victims and supporting survivors "who continue to live with scars of that fateful time." Leendertse clarified that the resolution "is not directed against anybody" but is aimed at the perpetrators of the genocide. SERBIA: President Aleksandar Vučić of Serbia criticized the resolution as "highly politicized," claiming it would "open a Pandora's box." "This is not about reconciliation, not about memories; this is something that will just open an old wound and create complete political havoc. Not only in our region but even here, in this hall," he argued. The commemoration of the day and remembrance of the event was established during the week leaders in Israel and Palestine's Gaza Strip were issued memorandum of intent to secure arrest warrants by the ICC for the unfolding genocide in Gaza, which has displaced 2.3 million people, killed over 35,000 and destroyed 80% of all housing, infrastructure and culture in a besieged area the size of the island of Manhattan in New York City. Like Serbia, those accused deny they're guilty of anything.

Africa

Feb

Flour Massacre (IL/PS)(2024): February 29

06:20 AM | -

THE 2024 FLOUR MASSACRE

In the early hours of Thursday, 29 February 2024, at least 118 Palestinians were killed during a convoy's attempt to deliver much-needed food aid. In the weeks prior, the United Nations had warned of an impending famine for the approximately 300,000 residents trapped in the north and the 1.9 million in the southern Gaza Strip.

WHY ARE PALESTINIANS TRAPPED?

Since 1967, Israel has exercised complete control of Occupied Palestine. In 2007, Israel completely sealed the area by land, sea, and air as collective punishment for electing Hamas over Israeli-approved politicians. Every item that legally enters the Strip, including water, food, soap, and medical supplies, is monitored down to the allotted calories by the Israeli government. Even essential items like insulin, water-purifying tablets, and chocolate are often prohibited from entering.

HOW THE FLOUR MASSACRE UNFOLDED

Named "The Flour Massacre," after the staple delivered, the tragedy unfolded on a coastal roadway just outside the now-razed Gaza City.

To alleviate the man-made humanitarian crisis and prevent starvation, a convoy of approximately 20 trucks, reportedly supported by Israeli, Palestinian, and international businessmen, made its way toward northern Gaza from the Egyptian border, shadowed by the Israeli military on the ground and the air. After passing through an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) checkpoint, the convoy proceeded northward along al-Rashid Street.

As it neared the Nabulsi roundabout on the southwestern fringe of Gaza City, individuals waiting for over a day surged toward it. Upon reaching the trucks, shots rang out in quick succession, and people began to fall. As they realized they were being shot at and killed from the shadows, the panicked crowd attempted to flee. The gunfire intensified, coming from multiple directions. Within minutes, over 100 were dying or dead. In addition to those killed, the Gaza health ministry also confirmed that 760 individuals sustained injuries during the confusion.

CASTING BLAME

The IDF insists the deaths were due to the Palestinians "stampeding," and that its soldiers felt "threatened" by the unarmed civilians attempting to get food. The Israeli military says they only fired "warning shots."

The evidence soundly disputes this. Independent footage from Al Jazeera captures the harrowing moments of gunfire and panic as people scrambled over the aid trucks, seeking refuge. Several eyewitnesses accused Israeli forces of deliberately firing at civilians attempting to access the food aid, a claim corroborated by footage showing bodies being transported away from the scene.

FOCUSING ON FACTS

Hospitals, including al-Awda Hospital, reported receiving hundreds of casualties, nearly 85% with bullet wounds and an additional 15% with injuries consistent with a panicked dispersal of people. The majority of those shots were to the head or heart, meaning the killings were not random.

"Many victims of the massacre suffered injuries from 5.56x45mm NATO bullets; this is a type of bullet fired from Israeli army weapons. A sample of 200 dead and injured victims revealed that they were indeed hit by this type of bullet, and that the bullets were discovered and examined at the massacre site along with shrapnel found in the bodies of the wounded and dead." —Euro-Med Monitor.

Al Jazeera, The Intercept, BBC Verify, and several other media organizations meticulously examined available information, including social media footage, satellite images, and the edited drone videos from the IDF, to construct a coherent account of the unfolding situation.

Predictably, the IDF issued a series of dehumanizing statements portraying the massacre as an "incident of chaotic scrambling for aid that led to looting and trampling, resulting in numerous injuries." IDF spokespersons and Israeli officials have offered varying excuses for the use of gunfire, casting themselves as victims and emphasizing efforts to disperse the crowd and protect the convoy. The evidence from eyewitness testimony, footage, official causes of death, and treated injuries do not support Israel's assertions.

The IDF has pledged to release the complete footage of the incident, which has become a subject of intense scrutiny. Historically, if the victims are Palestinians, Israeli authorities rarely uphold their pledges.

THIS GENERATION'S DIER YASSIN

The Flour Massacre of February 2024 is quickly becoming the Dier Yassin Massacre of Israel's latest ethnic cleansing campaign. Dier Yassin, on 9 April 1948, is one of over 50 documented massacres perpetrated by then-self-described Zionist terrorists. Many of these people became the Israeli military following 15 May 1948, and several went on to lead the country. Like Dier Yassin, the Flour Massacre is not an isolated incident. Like Dier Yassin, the Flour Massacre is known and serves as a warning to Palestinians.

After obfuscating the circumstances and attempting to spin the coverage of the Flour Massacre for twenty-four hours, Israel began killing more starving civilians, including children, trying to reach aid again—and again—and again, targeting additional aid convoys. Before the Flour Massacre, Israeli snipers regularly picked off men, women, and children seeking food, often killing whole families at once. They also killed security and NGO personnel delivering assistance in the weeks prior.

ISRAELIS SUPPORT THE ETHNIC CLEANSING

As of 10 March 2024, Israeli polls report that 75% of Israel's Jewish residents overwhelmingly support a ground invasion into Rafah and the continued starvation, murder, and ethnic cleansing of the 2.2 million men, women, and children trapped in the Gaza Strip. What does Israel's 20% non-Jewish population think? They are not permitted to voice an opinion on the genocide. A simple "like" on a social media post often results in arrest and indefinite imprisonment without charge, regardless of age.

Only one country in the world continues to support Israel's unfolding genocide unconditionally: the United States. The rest of the world has called for a permanent ceasefire.

____________________
CONTEXT ON THE CONFLICT

RAFAH, GAZA, AND THE PALESTINIANS

Before 7 October, Rafah's population was roughly 200,000. As of that writing, it has swelled to 1.5 million, nearly all displaced.
Rafah, known as Rafia during the Iron Age when the region was called Canaan, had been a thriving center of commerce and trade since at least 3200 BCE, but likely much longer given the ancient populations of Byblos, Damascus, and other regional cities.

Located in the southern part of the Gaza Strip, Rafah is part of the region of Palestine and has been controlled and occupied by the state of Israel since June 1967. Before the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948, the city and region were a vibrant trading hub and a prosperous center of agriculture, textiles, and tourism.

Gaza's native people are Palestinians who have lived in the region for over 6000 years. Their ancestors spoke various languages and were "settled people" or Harari/Fellaheen (as opposed to the Bedouin, who travel from place to place throughout the year). The term "Arab" references a language and cultural group, though the word is often misinterpreted as a race. Harari, Fellaheen, and Bedouin are all Arab peoples. Palestinian denotes a regional location for a distinct group. The collective term "Palestinians" includes original followers of the faiths of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.

RAFAH AND REFUGEES

Between 1 December 1947 and 31 December 1949, Israel expanded the land given to it by the United Nations by nearly 300% through the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people from their homes; many fled to Gaza for safety, believing they could return to their homes once Israel had finished. Israel began its ethnic cleansing before it became a state.

The surrounding Arab armies did come to the defense of the Palestinians, but only after 15 May 1948. These armies also refused to cross into the land granted to the new state by the United Nations. The 1948-49 war was fought on the additional lands Israel had conquered, land the United Nations had allocated to the Palestinians.

HOW PALESTINIANS BECAME REFUGEES

Being refugees for a bit was considered an inconvenience to the Palestinians, but it wasn't as if their land had never been conquered before. When the war ended, the Palestinians thought they would go home, and life would go on with a Jewish flavor rather than Muslim or Christian. This is what survivors will tell you they believed as Israel waged its war to expand its allocated territory. They fled to safety during a war and planned to return when it ended.

Instead, Israel killed those attempting to return, destroyed their homes and businesses, or gave them to new Jewish refugees and immigrants arriving from around the world. To further prevent Palestinians from returning home, the Israelis planted pine forests and built communal kibbutz over razed Palestinian villages, funded by international charity drives. Many a well-meaning person around the world purchased a tree in Israel, thinking it was a benevolent act. In reality, their trees hid war crimes and served to solidify an occupation.

Nealy all evicted Palestinians received zero compensation for their homes, businesses, or property. Instead, they became refugees in Gaza and the neighboring countries.

WHEN DID PALESTINE COME INTO EXISTENCE?

"Palestine" is the anglicized version of the Latin "Philistine," in Hebrew "Philistia" (mentioned over 250 times in The Bible), and ancient Egyptian "Peleset." Regardless of pronunciation, the region has existed for at least 3176 years (archeological remains prove this).

The first written reference to "Palestine" traces to ancient Egypt during the reign of Ramses III (1184-1153 BCE), specifically around 1152 BCE, as documented in the Papyrus Harris I, also known as the Great Harris Papyrus. This artifact, containing 1,500 lines of hieroglyphic text, was discovered near Medinet Habu on the Nile, close to Luxor.

PELESET, PHILISTINE, PALESTINE

The hieroglyphs referenced a people known as the PLST (pronounced 'peleset'), indicating early mentions of Palestinians. One notable passage from the papyrus stated, "I extended all the boundaries of Egypt; I overthrew those who invaded them from their lands. I slew the Denyen in their isles, the Thekel and the Peleset (Pwr-s-ty) were made ashes."

Another reference to the Peleset appeared in the Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III at Medinet Habu, dated around 1150 BCE. This text again highlighted the Peleset as adversaries of Ramesses III.

Additionally, the Merneptah Stele, an inscription from Pharaoh Merneptah (1213–1203 BCE), mentioned the Canaanites and the tribe of Israel in the context of a military campaign in Canaan, predating the earliest biblical records of the Kingdom of Saul/Israel around 1020 BCE.

Assyrian texts around 800 BCE referred to the region as Palashtu or Pilistu. By the 5th century BCE, the Greek historian Herodotus, in his work "The Histories," had identified "Palaistine" as encompassing the Judaean mountains and the Jordan Rift Valley within the fifth Persian satrapy, further solidifying Palestine's historical presence in ancient records.

CONQUERED MANY TIMES—NEVER EVICTED UNTIL 1948

Palestine's historical lineage began in the ancient texts created under Egypt's Ramses III's reign.

In 597 BCE, Babylon conquered Palestine. Next, in 538 BCE, the Persians took over, followed by the Seleucids, then the Romans, then the Muslim Caliphate, The Crusaders for a short time, who fell to the Ayyubid Sultanate, then the Mamluk Sultanate, and finally the Ottoman Empire, which ruled Palestine from 1516-1917. This was followed by the British Mandate period, which ended in the violent creation of the nation-state of Israel and the Nakba—the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians from their land.

Israel prevented non-Jewish Palestinians from returning when the war ended, in direct contradiction to the assurances the Zionist leaders had made to the United Nations as a condition of their statehood.

In the two years attributed to the creation of the state of Israel, approximately 17,000 Palestinians were murdered and 750,000 displaced. The 2023-2024 genocide has already killed 150% of that number and displaced 250% more people in five months.

A RHETORICAL QUESTION

For thousands of years, the people of Palestine, who share many faiths, including Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, lived in relative peace under their various conquerors. "Muslim terrorists" didn't threaten previous conquerors, nor did they exist. Only in the past 105 years did this become a problem. Only in the past 105 years has a conqueror tried to remove the people from the land and take it for themselves without compensation and through brutal force.

The region was a haven of cross-cultural trade and cohesiveness for 6000+ years, beginning with Canaan through multiple occupations and rulers. Suddenly, it is not, begging the question: Is it the people or policies?

Sources:
Many thanks to Tanya Cariina Newbury-Smith, PhD at Exeter University's Institute for Arab and Islamic Studies for providing the background and history of Rafah and Palestine.

Additional resources consulted:

The Concept of Palestine: A Four Thousand-Year History (2018), by Nur Masalha

The Invention of Ancient Israel: The Silencing of Palestinian History (1997) by Keith W. Whitelam

What video and eyewitness accounts tell us about Gazans killed around aid convoy, 1 March 2024, by By Paul Brown, BBC Verify. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-68445973

The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine (2006) by Ilan Pappé.

The Great War for Civilisations: The Conquest of the Middle East, (2005) by Robert Fisk.

New evidence confirms Israel's full involvement in 'Flour Massacre' of starving Palestinian civilians (6 March 2024), Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor.

And cumulative information over the years from:
Al Jazeera
Ha'artez
The Intercept
Mondoweiss
Democracy Now
The Gray Zone
Breaking Points
The Electronic Intifada
Judging Freedom
Jonathan Cook
The New York Times
The Guardian
The Majority Report
Middle East Eye
Washington Report on Middle Eastern Affairs
Foreign Policy Magazine
...and many other films, books, symposiums, lectures, thesis, and memoirs.

Africa

Jun

USS Liberty (1967): June 8

06:20 AM | -

ATTACK ON THE USS LIBERTY

34 Americans killed, 172 Injured in international waters by an ally

On June 8, 1967, a foreign nation launched a surprise 75-minute air and sea attack on an American naval ship, the USS Liberty, in international waters. The United States was not at war in the region. Ultimately, 34 men died, and 172 were wounded. The American government opted to bury the assault for diplomatic favor and assuage a foreign nation's vanity following the attack.

The USS Liberty story epitomizes bravery and beating the odds. It is the kind of story Hollywood loves, and Hollywood tried to tell the Liberty's story in the mid-1980s. Interests benefiting from silence threatened participants in the film with blacklisting, effectively shutting it down. One gruesome threat arrived via a decapitated cat thrown on a survivor's front porch. The intimidation of the survivors and producers of the Liberty feature film exemplifies why it is difficult to speak about the attack and why most Americans do not know about it.

THE ATTACK

On June 8, 1967, the USS Liberty sailed quietly in the eastern Mediterranean, going about its business monitoring events in the region. It was a perfect late spring day, and the ship was in international waters, well away from the shore.

Preceding the ambush, the crew felt safe, having observed up to nine reconnaissance flights by the Israeli air force, in marked planes, over the ship throughout the morning. Israel was currently in combat with Egypt and Syria, but the Liberty was outside the territorial waters of the combatants. On its mast hung a giant ceremonial American flag (20 by 38 feet, six by 11.5 meters). Israel was and continues to be an ally of the United States; the Israelis were watching out for them, the crew thought. The US was not at war in the region, and the ship, lightly armed, was no threat.

With lunch concluded and the galley cleared, several off-duty crewmen were sunbathing on the main deck. Suddenly, at 14:00 hours, unmarked fighter jets descended upon the ship and attacked. Under fire, the communications room frantically called for help using both military and international civilian maritime frequencies, only to discover their communications were jammed.

Jamming civilian frequencies violates international law, and only an ally might know the Liberty's top-secret military frequencies. Yet, both were jammed. The Liberty found itself alone, without comms, and fighting for its life against an unknown enemy. The nearest American aircraft carrier was 500 miles (805 km) away.

The jets attacking were modern, fast, and agile; the Liberty's crew could see this much. But who was shooting, and why? Was it the USSR or another state actor with an advanced air force? Nobody on the Liberty knew, nor would they know for most of the 75-minute strike. The attacker concealed the identifying markings on their planes, making them ghost planes, unknown. Three military ships, as yet unidentified, were spotted approaching quickly on the horizon.

The crew of the Liberty scrambled to hold the ship together, destroying sensitive documents and attending to the wounded as bullets and napalm engulfed the deck. The ship's armaments were useless, designed to repel boarders, not a sustained air and sea attack. The Liberty was not a warship; it was an intelligence ship. One of the first targets hit in the attack was its primary gun, and both gunnery technicians died instantly.

THE REVEAL

An hour into the assault, the crew discovered their attacker's identity: the air and naval forces of the state of Israel. The markings on the nearest warship became visible. One of the Liberty's officers noted its Star of David as he witnessed it using its deck guns to shoot the crewmen attempting to launch the lifeboats (a war crime). The gunfire rendered the dinghies unusable, trapping the Liberty's crew on the ship. Ultimately, the Israeli navy fired five torpedoes at the American ship. Four missed, but one hit the Liberty mid-ship, punching a 45 ft (13.7 meters) hole in its side and killing at least twenty instantly.

The vessel was taking on water fast. Israeli forces were close to sinking the ship when Israeli command intercepted communications confirming the American Air Force was on its way (the Liberty crew jury-rigged a radio and finally got a call out). The Israeli attack boats and planes retreated. Some minutes later, a helicopter appeared to check on the ship. The note dropped from the aircraft landed in a bundle beside a severed leg on the main deck, and the Liberty's captain picked it up.

"Do you have any casualties?" it asked cheekily.

Reading it, Captain McGonagle paused, looked up, and presented the hovering airship with a pronounced, sustained, and defiantly blatant bird (middle finger). Upon receiving the message, the helicopter slithered back to its base. McGonagle and the crew went to work navigating the severely listing ship to safe harbor, six days away in Malta. The rescue never arrived. On the orders of US Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, the US government pulled the rescue jets back once they confirmed who was attacking. The attack was over, but the drama was just beginning for the survivors.

Within hours of their arrival in Malta, US intelligence forbade the survivors from telling their stories. Years later, Lt. James Ennes, who was on the bridge of the USS Liberty during the attack, defied the gag order. He authored the first book on the attack, published in 1980, Assault on the Liberty.

The US government's handling of the atrocity—including recalling the rescue planes upon confirmation that Israel was the belligerent—is unprecedented in US military history.

A TRAGIC CASE OF MISIDENTIFICATION. SERIOUSLY?

The state of Israel said it misidentified the USS Liberty, believing it to be a civilian Egyptian freighter. Accepting this premise requires factual gymnastics.

First, aside from no similarity in ship silhouette, civilian ships do not use military grey; it is camouflage.

Second, the ship's oversized standard would need to change to an Egyptian flag, not American. Other than the color red, the flags of Egypt and the United States have nothing in common.

Next, in the first two minutes, precision airstrikes disabled the single gun turret and all communications antennas. Some freighters may have deck-mounted machine guns, but they do not have a military-grade canon, even a small one, like the Liberty. Nor did 1967-era civilian freighters have dozens of high-tech antennas emanating from the bridge and upper decks.

Finally, if the Israelis believed the ship to be an Egyptian freighter, why jam US military communications channels? To do so required knowledge of its top-secret frequencies, and a civilian freighter, particularly one of a foreign nation, would not know these or use them.

None of these facts mattered. Israel insisted the attack was a massive error, a misjudgment. It was simple incompetence. Israel's version became the accepted narrative.

ONE SHIP, 239 COMMENDATIONS CLANDESTINELY AWARDED

Upon their return to the United States, the Liberty and its captain, William McGonagle, received the Medal of Honor (MoH) for guiding the heavily damaged ship from the eastern Mediterranean to Malta. Typically, as they are so rare, MoH awards are awarded by the President of the United States in a public ceremony. The Department of Defense awarded the Liberty's in a clandestine ceremony. In addition to the MoH, crew members received two Navy Crosses, eleven Silver Stars, twenty Bronze Stars, nine Navy Commendation Medals, two hundred and four Purple Hearts, and the ship received the Presidential Unit Citation. None of these ceremonies occurred publicly. The awards were secret, under threat of court-martial or imprisonment if the recipients disclosed how or why they received their commendations.

EPITAPH

The Israeli pilot transcripts debunk the misidentification lie and several others. American intelligence acquired access to these shortly after the attack. The transcripts prove Israeli command knew it was an American ship when they attacked with gunfire, bombs, torpedos, and napalm. Their mission, confirmed by the pilot transcripts, was to sink the ship. Why continues to be speculation. As a spy ship, the logical conclusion is that Israel was about to engage in something it didn't want to be recorded, even by its closest ally.

After the first few days, the media could not tell this story due to US censorship. More recently, avoidance has been due to aggressive activities by the Israel lobby. Lobby activities focus on defamation, slander, and libel of crewmen and journalists who dare report on it. An intensive disinformation campaign via books, videos, and speeches on the attack is also part of the strategy.

Ironically, one diplomat was horrified by the attack, and he did take action. Officially protesting Israel's assault and the subsequent US whitewash of the event at the time, he implored Tel Aviv to come clean and make amends. Who was this man of character and gravitas? Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Avraham Harman. Harman tried, and he was one of few who officially did. In 1968, after nine years in his post, he was succeeded as ambassador by Yitzhak Rabin.

In Malta and back in the United States, the USS Liberty underwent 40 million dollars in repairs. Ultimately, the highly decorated ship was beyond repair, and she was stripped, partitioned, and sold for scrap.

Since the attack, the survivors and the families of the USS Liberty have lobbied the US government for full recognition. As of May 2022, despite it being one of the most decorated ships in US history, there is no official US memorial commemorating the survivors or the attack. The US government has not publicly and formally recognized the USS Liberty in totality, removed the gag orders, or publicly celebrated the crew's extreme bravery, endurance, and fortitude on that day. Nor has it defended and protected the crew and their families from defamation by interests associated with the attacking nation. Fifty-five years later, the survivors and the families of the slain continue to fight, hoping the American people will push their government into acknowledging them publicly and end the harassment.

LEARN MORE

A) For more information on the USS Liberty, see the survivor's site at: http://www.gtr5.com.

B) Al Jazeera's (AJ) 2014 fifty-minute documentary is the most recent and concise: The Day Israel Attacked America: https://youtu.be/tx72tAWVcoM on YouTube with commercials.

Or on AJ without commercials: https://www.aljazeera.com/program/featured-documentaries/2014/10/30/the-day-israel-attacked-america

The AJ special report includes the actual Israeli pilot radio calls with control. It is the first to publish these.

C) The 2002 BBC documentary USS Liberty, Dead In the Water is available here: https://youtu.be/kjOH1XMAwZA

The BBC documentary came out before Admiral Thomas Moorer's testimony and the leaking of the Israeli pilot transcripts a few years later. It is also good but not as current or detailed as the AJ special report.

Africa

Mar

Hands Off Rafah Global Day of Action: March 2

06:20 AM | -

Millions will take to the streets worldwide on March 2nd in a global day of protest in support of Gaza, as tensions escalate over the Israeli government's plans for a full-scale invasion of Rafah on March 9th, just one day before the commencement of Ramadan. This announcement comes in the wake of the United States vetoing a United Nations resolution that called for Israel to immediately halt its extensive military actions in Gaza, actions increasingly equated with the war crimes and crimes against humanity of ethnic cleansing and genocide. The global protest is a response to the dire situation in Gaza, where the region faces famine, its hospitals are under siege, and the threat of a ground invasion looms. Israel's continued military operations in the Gaza Strip affect over 2 million Palestinians, sparking international outcry and calls for immediate action. The widespread mobilization for Palestine has notably isolated the United States and Israel on the international stage amid growing internal divisions and increasing political pressure on both countries. Advocates for Palestine argue that the current moment presents a critical opportunity to apply pressure, emphasizing that the upcoming protests could significantly influence the pursuit of a lasting ceasefire and an end to the siege on Gaza. Activists are urging individuals worldwide, including those in the United States, to mobilize within their communities and institutions, emphasizing the importance of widespread participation in the protests on March 2nd. The rallying cries of "All out for Rafah! All out for Gaza! Stop the genocide!" reflect the urgency and the scale of the global response to address the crisis. The primary enablers of Israel's War on Gaza are the governments of the United States and Germany. As of March 1st, both nations have cases brought against them in the International Court of Justice for complicity in genocide. Israel's case of genocide is awaiting the judgment of the court. WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW Picket Israeli, American, and German embassies and consulates. Boycott companies that profit from Israel's occupation of Palestine (e.g., Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, Caterpillar, Elbit Systems) Host speak-outs. Wear a keffiyeh. Wear a black armband. Write your government representatives. HISTORY OF "SHUT IT DOWN FOR PALESTINE" Activists and people of conscience across the world are intensifying their efforts to spotlight the Israeli occupation and suspected genocide through a series of organized protests, walk-outs, sit-ins, and other forms of direct action. This initiative, dubbed "Shut It Down for Palestine," is part of an international campaign urging a halt to support for Israel. The movement seeks to leverage political and economic pressure on offices, businesses, and institutions seen as contributors or collaborators in the occupation. The campaign has garnered significant participation worldwide, with notable events emphasizing solidarity with Palestine. On November 4th, Washington DC witnessed a historic turnout, as over 500,000 individuals rallied in one of the largest marches of recent times. Similar expressions of support erupted in London, where half a million people took to the streets, and in Canada, where activists occupied the offices of over 17 Members of Parliament. In Belgium, dock workers refused to transport weapons destined for Israel, highlighting a broader, growing support for the demands of the movement. These demands include an immediate ceasefire, cessation of all aid to Israel, and lifting the blockade on Gaza. The movement has already seen tangible effects, with protests leading to the shutdown of major transportation hubs in the United States and activists targeting Israeli arms manufacturers. In a show of solidarity, several countries, including Bolivia, Jordan, Chile, and Colombia, have taken diplomatic actions against Israel. Organizers held their first event on Friday, December 8th, 2023, backed by a broad coalition of societal sectors—including labor unions, students, media, and healthcare workers. It called for an immediate ceasefire, the cutting of all aid to Israel, and the lifting of the Gaza siege. Shut It Down for Palestine aims to disrupt "business as usual" until Palestine is free from occupation and all people in the region enjoy equal rights. The campaign, which began on November 9th, intends to maintain and build momentum through continuous action days, signaling a new phase in the global struggle for Palestine. As of March 2nd, in 148 days, Israel has destroyed 70% of the Gaza Strip using the combined firepower of more than two atomic bombs. The nation state has killed over 30,000 people, two-thirds of whom were women and children. Another 600,000 civilians are at severe risk of starvation and dehydration within the next ten days. Ninety percent of the population cannot find food or water. No one can leave the walled-in enclave, even by sea. Outside of the Gaza Strip, Israel continues to kill hundreds of men, women, and children, in addition to disappearing and detaining over 8,000 civilians without charge or counsel throughout the Occupied Territories.

Africa

Mar

Credit Card Reduction Day: March 21

06:20 AM | -

CREDIT CARD REDUCTION DAY In a landscape where credit card debt looms as a formidable challenge for countless Americans, finding the most effective strategy to eliminate it is a pressing concern for many. Experts agree that while there is no one-size-fits-all solution, adopting a disciplined and strategic approach can significantly ease the burden of credit card debt. The first step in tackling credit card debt is to take a comprehensive inventory of all debts, noting the balances, interest rates, and monthly payments. This clarity is crucial for formulating a plan that targets debts efficiently. One widely recommended strategy is the debt avalanche method, which focuses on paying off the credit card with the highest interest rate first while maintaining minimum payments on others. This approach saves money in the long run by reducing the interest paid over time. Alternatively, the debt snowball method, endorsed by financial experts for its psychological wins, suggests paying off debts from smallest to largest. This method provides a sense of accomplishment with each debt cleared, keeping individuals motivated throughout their debt-elimination journey. Budgeting plays a pivotal role in debt reduction. Creating a realistic budget that prioritizes debt repayment without neglecting essential expenses is critical. Cutting discretionary spending, such as dining out and subscription services, can free up additional funds for debt payments. Another effective tactic is negotiating with credit card companies for lower interest rates. A simple phone call explaining one's financial situation and asking for a rate reduction can sometimes lead to significant savings on interest payments. For those with good credit, transferring balances to a card with a 0% introductory APR can provide a much-needed respite from high-interest rates, allowing more of the payment to go toward the principal balance. However, planning to pay off the balance before the promotional period ends is essential to avoid facing high rates again. Side hustles or part-time jobs can offer additional income specifically earmarked for debt repayment. This extra income can accelerate the debt elimination process significantly. In extreme cases, the best action might be to consult with a credit counseling agency for a debt management plan. These plans can consolidate debts into a single payment with a lower interest rate, though they may require closing credit accounts, which could impact credit scores. Eliminating credit card debt requires determination, discipline, and strategic financial planning. Staying committed to a repayment strategy, adapting as necessary, and avoiding new debt during repayment are crucial for economic freedom. The journey may be challenging, but the peace of mind and financial stability from debt-free are invaluable.

Africa

Mar

Crowdfunding Day: March 14

06:20 AM | -

CROWDFUNDING DAY Crowdfunding, the practice of funding a project or venture by raising small amounts of money from many people, has revolutionized how entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators bring their ideas to life. Its history is a testament to human ingenuity and the power of collective support, evolving from modest beginnings to become a key player in the global finance landscape. The concept of pooling resources for a common goal has been introduced previously, with historical precedents dating back centuries. However, the modern incarnation of crowdfunding began to take shape in the late 1990s and early 2000s, fueled by the advent of the internet and social media. These technological advancements made it possible to reach a broad audience quickly and efficiently, laying the groundwork for the crowdfunding model. One of the earliest and most notable examples of online crowdfunding was in 1997 when British rock band Marillion raised $60,000 through an internet campaign to fund their North American tour. This successful endeavor demonstrated the potential of online fundraising, showing that fans and supporters were willing to financially back projects they believed in. The early 2000s saw the emergence of dedicated crowdfunding platforms, providing a structured fundraising environment. ArtistShare, launched in 2003, is considered the first official crowdfunding website to support musicians and artists. It was followed by the launch of other platforms like Kickstarter in 2009, Indiegogo in 2008, and GoFundMe in 2010, each catering to different projects and needs. Kickstarter, in particular, became synonymous with crowdfunding, offering a space for creative projects across various fields, from film and music to technology and publishing. Its model, which rewards backers with tiered rewards based on their contribution level, became a standard in the industry. Legislative changes in various countries further bolstered the growth of crowdfunding. In the United States, the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act of 2012 marked a significant milestone, easing securities regulations for broader participation in funding startups and small businesses through crowdfunding platforms. Today, crowdfunding is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with platforms catering to diverse sectors, including equity crowdfunding, peer-to-peer lending, and donation-based campaigns. It has democratized access to funding, allowing entrepreneurs, artists, and individuals facing personal emergencies or pursuing charitable causes to reach out to a global community for support. Crowdfunding's history reflects its adaptability and the changing landscape of finance and philanthropy. From helping bands tour to launching innovative products, from supporting art projects to aiding disaster recovery, crowdfunding has shown that collective action through small contributions can have a profound impact. Its evolution continues as platforms explore new technologies, such as blockchain, to enhance transparency and trust among users further, promising an exciting future for this collaborative approach to fundraising.

Africa