IFEX’s Post

This year’s theme is linked to the International Decade for People of African Descent, which spans the timeframe from 2015 to 2024. In proclaiming this Decade, the international community is recognizing that people of African descent represent a distinct group, whose human rights must be promoted and protected. https://bit.ly/3PsupGC

Under the rule of the ayatollahs, Iran holds the notorious distinction of having the most dismal human rights record. The 2023 Global Rights Project report from the University of Rhode Island Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies, which evaluates countries worldwide, places Khamenei's Iran at the very bottom of the rankings. For detailed insights, access the report here: shorturl.at/qMNRT

Belgium holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union during the first six months of 2024. This presents an unique opportunity for the country to help shape the social priorities of the Union. One of the priorities of the Belgian Presidency is to continue the work on the social component of the European Union by discussing further implementation of the principles of the European Pillar of Social Rights. This Pillar contains 20 principles aimed at making the European Union more equitable and inclusive. We are proud to put a more social Europe at the heart of the debates for the next 6 months thanks to the many joined efforts and preparations of the Belgian administrations, civil society, advocacy groups and delegates of other member states. Discover our priorities:

Happy Human Rights Day South Africa Reflecting on historical events such as the Sharpeville massacre in 1960 is crucial for understanding the progress made toward democracy and equality in our country. The sacrifices and struggles of those who fought for these ideals serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding them. By reflecting on the past, we can identify areas where progress has been made and where challenges still exist. It's an opportunity to renew commitments to the values of democracy and equality and to take action to address any remaining injustices for future generations.

📢 This week at GGI, discover the article “On the model of Northern Ireland’s peace process, Women can be the key to negotiating peace between Israel and Palestine”. The author, Anna Franco draws a comparison between the contribution of women in peace processes in Northern Ireland, and in Palestine. This research shows how women's involvement in peace talks, through civil rights movements, is a central element in the road to equality. It also examines the extent to which the exclusion of women from peace negotiations by governments hinders the achievement of sustainable peace. 📄 To read the article : https://lnkd.in/egjv-EW7

📣 FRA's latest report on 'EU funds & Fundamental Rights' highlights key steps for upholding rules and respecting people's rights. 📚 The report calls on the EU and Member States to involve rights experts, monitor fund usage, provide resources for effective oversight, and raise awareness of complaint mechanisms. 🔗 Check out the report here https://cutt.ly/ewGMSVAn

🚨 NEW PUBLICATION | Strengthening Civic Cohesion in Europe This report, authored by EPC's Danielle Brady, Louisa Slavkova, and Denitza Vidolova Vidolova delves into the pressing issue of diminished democratic involvement in Europe, marked by the rise of 'civic deserts' and 'regional development traps.' The paper suggests considering civic cohesion as a core European value, essential to the European Union's initiatives and policies, particularly its Cohesion Policy. Read the entire paper here 👇

Today marks the 100-day countdown to #PeaceDay. The theme this year is “Cultivating a culture of peace”. In a world mired by conflict, inequalities and discrimination, we recognize that education is one of the principal means to build this culture of peace, and that we must strive ever harder to promote dialogue, empathy and human rights for all. Learn more about Peace Day: https://lnkd.in/d37trb3

Sir David Martin Foundation is proud to stand in solidarity with First Nations communities in the ongoing campaign for their sovereignty and self-determination. We believe there needs to be crucial and urgent action for the traditional custodians of this land to receive the acknowledgment, respect and equality that they deserve. In step with what we believe, we have signed the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS)’s Statement of Solidarity with First Nations Communities. The statement brings acknowledgement to the ongoing injustice and institutionalised racism that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face, calling for action to end this disparity. “As a community sector, we commit to: ·        Solidarity and action with First Nations communities in their ongoing campaign for sovereignty and self-determination, including Voice, Treaty, and Truth-telling. ·        Ensuring our own decision-making processes respect First Nations voices, leadership and right to self-determination. ·        Developing partnership principles that ensure we are not competing with Aboriginal community-controlled organisations who are best placed to develop policy solutions and deliver services for their communities.” It is a crucial time to unite in solidarity with First Nations peoples. We cannot change what has happened in the past; but now we can build a future that brings justice and equality, the way it should have been a long time ago. Read and sign the Statement of Solidarity with First Nations Communities here: https://lnkd.in/gRvxkSVH

Today, we come together to commemorate the #InternationalDayofConscience. This significant day, established by the United Nations General Assembly through resolution 73/329 on July 25, 2019, holds profound meaning in our global community. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of human conscience in shaping our world, and urges us to pause, reflect, and listen to the innate voice within us – a voice that guides us towards empathy, compassion, and understanding. In a world often marked by turmoil and discord, nurturing our conscience becomes paramount, guiding us towards actions that uphold dignity, justice, and equality for all. This day calls upon individuals, communities, and nations to awaken their humanity, to embrace empathy, and to strive for a better tomorrow. Today, we also recognise the invaluable work of the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation and our efforts in promoting peace, reconciliation, and social justice. Through our research, advocacy, and grassroots initiatives, CSVR embodies the principles of conscience-driven action, working towards a world where every individual's rights and freedoms are respected and upheld. #InternationalDayOfConscience #PeaceAndJustice #GlobalAwareness #CSVR35 #SocialJustice #HumanRights #UnitedNations #ConscienceDrivenAction