Syrian refugees in Iraq risking lives to return home amid funding shortfall
Kristin Burger
In Syria, thousands of individuals are fleeing the country due to the recent civil war. According to an article on The Guardian website entitled, “Syrian refugees in Iraq risking lives to return home amid funding shortfall”, many of those fleeing Syria are deciding to return to the war zone as opposed to continuing to seek refuge in Iraq. The article states that roughly 200,000 Syrian refugees have sought safety in Iraq only to find the living conditions have become deplorable due to overpopulation in relation to the amount of funding that the refugee camps are given. More than one family has to live in tents created to house only one family. Because of the harsh living conditions and overcrowding, many of these refugees are choosing danger over safety by going back to Syria so that they can live in an area that is not overcrowded and underfunded. When reading this article, I am reminded of the overcrowded safe houses of Kru Nam in Thailand in the book “Not For Sale” by David Batstone. As described in the update to the book, Nam is still struggling to find enough funding to expand her housing area because as she grows, more refugees come to her for safety. Another piece of this article that I found interesting that directly relates to the reading from the textbook and the class discussion is that the economy of Iraq has been significantly affected by the Syrian refugees. While it is difficult for refugees to secure a work permit for those who had to abandon their personal identification in Syria, some refugees have been successful in obtaining the right to work which is described in the article as having an impact on job availability to refugees and citizens and has caused an increase the cost of basic housing. Basically, there is more competition for basic amenities so business owners are able to set prices wherever they see fit. The article states that housing alone can cost a refugee 75% of their salary in Iraq which leaves hardly any funds left for other basic needs. Overall, this article addresses social welfare issues, economic issues, and political issues with Syrian refugees seeking safety in Iraq.
Gang, Rebecca (2013, August 30). Syrian refugees in Iraq risking lives to return home amid funding shortfall. The Guardian. Retrieved from: ttp://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/aug/30/syrian-refugees-iraq
Kristen, This is a perfect example of how sometimes the solution to a problem can lead to an even bigger problem. That is why it is so important to continually evaluate a situation to determine the best course of action or aid at any given moment. With the global political climate quickly changing across the world responders must be flexible in intervention types and direction of funding. The Syrian refugees who are experiencing such conditions as described in the article have been put through the ringer. Not only did they have to flee a first time from the threats of war, but also a second time from the deplorable living conditions in Iraq.
Kristen, I enjoyed the topic of your article and found it to be interesting. I believe that scenarios like this exist all over the world and that Melissa summed it up perfectly in saying sometimes we don't realize how one solution to a problem can have unintended consequences and further complicate the issue, usually draining the resources and creating an even bigger problem to deal with. The people of Syria must feel betrayed in some sense. They thought it was going to be safe to flee their war-torn country only to be met with tremendous poverty and hardship in a country they thought would provide refuge. This reminds me of some of the domestic violence situations I encounter at work.
Kristen- The thought of the refugees camps being so overcrowded that the refugees would rather return to their home that is currently a war zone is almost unbearable to imagine. It seems that the article gave the facts regarding how poor the conditions are such as: 10% of cases, two families share the same tent, but I have a feeling that this does not describe the conditions there. If the conditions are so poor that people would rather take their chances in a war zone it must be so indescribable the writer of this article could or would not describe the true details of the conditions. The refugees are experiencing war at home and war in their escape. They are unable to find jobs without their proper identification and work permits. If that was not enough the supply and demand of the over population has caused rent to sky rocket to be 75% of their salary. Leaving them limited options of survival. You are so right when you said this article encompasses social welfare issues, economic issues, and political issues and it also is about many of the topics we discussed in class the other night such as human migration, non renewable resources, economics and etc. The burdens effecting these countries will eventually affect many countries
Melissa McIntosh Human Rights blog 8/31/13 3:40 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-23899082
After reading the article, UN's Navi Pillay attacks Sri Lanka human rights record on the BBC News/ Asia website this writer is left with more questions than answers. Navi Pillay fills the position as a senior official for the United Nations as a Human rights commissioner. The government of Sri Lanka granted permission for Navi Pillay to explore their country for a week and investigate if the government had been meeting human rights standards as determined by the UN. The human rights standards can be viewed at the following link: http://www.un.org/en/documents/udhr/ Navi Pillay was allowed to explore areas of Sri Lanka in which wars have previously taken place. According to the article Navi Pillay was very dissatisfied with the conditions for and treatment of people in these areas and voiced her dissatisfaction openly. Although the Sri Lankan government reported they were an open book with no secrets to hide, Navi Pillay was informed by residents of this country that family members have gone missing and they have experienced pressures and harassment from military personnel. Navi Pillay was under the impression from the looks of things in Mullivaikkal, that the area had been tidied up and wreckage had been cleared away in preparation for her visit. Navi Pillay voices concerns related to attacks on religious minorities, and the governments attempt to convince Pillay that these issues are simply not a big deal. Pillay plans to report her findings to the Human Rights Council. The war that took place in Sri Lanka lasted 26 years and ended just recently in 2009. Some people estimate that 9,000-75,000 civilian deaths occurred during the last month of the war. Although I feel relief in knowing that the UN is investigating human rights and fighting to ensure human rights standards are being followed, I can’t help but question how the UN can stop the mistreatment of people in other countries. Without placing someone on guard to protect these people how can the UN ensure that human rights are not being deliberately violated? Navi Pillay was left with the impression that Sri Lankan government had attempted to make things look appeasing to her during her visit and she was still left dismayed by what she witnessed. I can only imagine how people in these areas are treated when no one is looking. The severity of problems such as these blows my mind. Sadly enough, I feel an overwhelming urge to look the other way because I do not know how it would be possible to overcome such obstacles as the mistreatment of others. I pray that God is with the people who are suffering in countries such as this.
Addendum: This article relates to a discussion we had in class about how things that happen in other countries do effect the US. Anyone who watches the news recently has probably witnessed the debate about wether or not the US should become involved in the conflicts taking place in Syria. The UN has also been highly involved with investigation in that conflict.
Melissa, Your article was very good and I found several parallels between the Russian & Sri Lankan government (the focus of my blog). Both want to outwardly portray that things are "fine" within their country when there is great evidence proving the contrary. This must be terrifying for the citizens of these countries to live in conditions that are dangerous and oppressive but know that they cannot do anything to oppose them for fear of retaliation from their own government. I too questioned the power of the United Nations to enforce any kind of real penalty on these countries who are obviously oppressing their citizens. If there is real, documented proof mistreatment, how can these people seek justice and do so without the fear of being punished?
Russia’s Anti-Gay Law, Spelled Out in Plain English Submitted by: Lisa Norton 8/31/13 The topic of Discrimination and/or Justice Issues is extremely broad and can make narrowing down your topic of interest daunting. While searching through articles on the internet I found something that I have been hearing a lot of buzz about in the news recently; Russia and their discrimination of Gay Athletes competing in the 2014 Winter Olympics. Now the article I chose does not deal with this controversy directly, but rather how gay men and women are openly discriminated against in Russia on a daily basis. The Policymic.com reported that on June 30th of this year, the Russian President Vladimir Putin supported and signed a bill into law that banned any/all “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations to minors.” Many believe that this is a direct attempt to influence any person under the legal age from pursuing any same-sex interests. The Russian government is going so far as to impose fines on any person, public official or organization found engaging homosexual propaganda via public peace marches, protests or the internet may pay fines from 4,000 rubles to 200,000 rubles. Non-citizens of Russia face the same fines along with jail time and immediate deportation. How can Russia impose such restrictions after claiming that discrimination of any kind does not exist in Russia because the country’s constitution forbids it? Innokenty Grekov’s article explains that because the Russian government made the new law prohibiting homosexual propaganda so ambiguous that it can be twisted to reflect whichever side is most convenient to the judicial system. Translation: we can say that it is your personal right to engage in homosexuality but don’t do it publicly and/or encourage others to follow suit or there will be consequences. Although it became legal to publicly promote a homosexual lifestyle in 1993, citizens are facing harsh consequences and violent attacks when demanding human rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states in its global proclamation that “All human beings are born with equal rights and undeniable rights and fundamental freedoms.” And in Article 2 it states that every person is “entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion…” My interpretation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is that all humans are not only free to live as they choose but it is their right. Article 19 supports the freedom of opinion and expression and Article 16 technically states that all men and women have the right to marry and pursue a family; however it doesn’t say specifically those men and women can’t marry someone of the same sex and create a family together. It is my opinion that the Russian government wants to have their cake and eat it too. They would like to say that in theory that are giving their citizens the right to make decisions regarding their sexual lives and personal beliefs, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the government’s opinion of morality. http://www.policymic.com/articles/58649/russia-s-anti-gay-law-spelled-out-in-plain-english
As a side note: There was an additional article that I found about the Russian government banning public protests over gay rights, at the 2014 Winter Olympics. This story directly supports the information in my previous article about imposing fines for individuals and organizations that chose to publicly support homosexuality. If anyone is interested in reading this article as well, it is short in length but interesting. You can find it at the link below. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-23819104
Wow! This article was really interesting and makes me feel even more sorry for the gay people of our world. This has to be the most hated people groups in the world, and mainly because people just don't like their lifestyle and the decisions they make that don't directly affect anyone else. It sounds crazy doesn't it? It seems as though there is just as much momentum in preventing gay rights as there is terrorism. The part that got me the most in this article is when the courts ruled "that gays incite hatred toward themselves and should be “protected” from doing so." Is this so because they fight for their beliefs and to be treated like equals? With a leader that doesn't seem to budge, I have a feeling that these people will never recieve the rights they fight for everyday. Such a sad world we live in.. Thanks for the article, it was very interesting!
AHHHH!!!! Sorry but that is exactly how this article makes me feel! So upsetting to see people standing in the way of progress. Just as "superiors" tried to deny women and African Americans their right to protest or show what they stood for in public, I promise LGBT will protest and show what they stand for until policies change. There is no way for the leaders of Russia to restrain young adults from becoming gay by restricting information. For many people who really are homosexual, information about homosexuality will not change the outcome. If they are gay they will not need posters and information to tell them they are. Take that Russian government :)
This infuriates me. I feel that it has taken so many years for America's LGBT community to make gains and be treated as actual people so I cannot fathom why Russia does not take note from our mistakes and realize all the rights they are violating. Have their citizens no rights?! I think you nailed it by saying they want to have their cake and eat it too. They want to be able to say "hey, we are allowing freedom of expression, as long as we don't know about it or see it etc etc" but in actuality they are most definitely not. The part about fining people who actually have the courage to speak up and fight for their rights is maddening, as is the fact that they fine non citizens and deport them. Is their goal to have a "gay free" country? That thought is laughable. They would be better off to accept that some peoples morals differ from their own and that diversity is a beautiful thing verses trying to abolish a homosexual lifestyle. Sadly, the innocent citizens who are part of the LGBT community are the ones getting caught in the crossfire and are the ones who will be discriminated against, and it boils down to pure ignorance and fear.
This makes me so mad. This reminds me of an argument a co-worker and I were having not to long ago. There was an issue going on in our church at the time which brought up homosexuality. I normally do not talk about politics but because I have homosexuals in my family, it irritated me. I started talking to my co-worker and he immediately started saying that It goes beyond what the Bible says and that they need prayer. Homosexuality has been going on for years but it may have been different then because it was never heard of as much. Now, it is out in the open and people are not use to it and people want no part in it. It sucks for those who do not have any rights and those who say this is a free country because not everyone is free. I love how you said they have to have their cake and eat it too. It is just like Candace said in class, Russia is wanting to put "blinders" on so that they do not have to see homosexuality even though it is going to happen whether they like it or not.
There have been 163 new cases of cholera this year in Cuba. These outbreaks have been linked to the provinces of Havana, Santiago and Camaguey. So far there have been no deaths reported following this epidemic. Cholera is a waterborne disease that causes severe dehydration due to diarrhea and can be fatal if left untreated. In the province of Havana, the disease has been connected with two food distribution centers and there was immediate action taken to isolate the issue. Haiti, which is nearby Cuba has experienced thousands of deaths in recent years due to a cholera epidemic. There were twelve tourists out of the reported 163 cases who were infected with this nasty disease. Compared to last summer, in which Cuba had over 417 people infected and 3 fatalities due to cholera, this year’s numbers are significantly lower. The country has not had a problem in years until last year, and there are now posters everywhere stressing the importance of good hygiene to help prevent the spread of this disease. Reading this article really opened my eyes to how cholera can still be a problem. I recently watched a documentary about one of the wars in the 1800’s and how many men were sent home from duty because so many of their family had died from cholera. When I think of cholera I think about those massive graves they had to make just to dispose of all the bodies of people who had died, because there weren’t enough people around to help bury them all. I can also link this to one of the videos we were supposed to watch for class called “Hidden faces of Globalization.” In this video, many people who earned less than twenty cents a day could not afford the $5 it cost to receive medical attention or medicine if needed. Can you imagine? I often wonder how these people even survive on a daily basis with lack of good nutrition and clean dry living conditions, and horrible working conditions. They have to have one heck of an immune system! Watching this video made me think how bad the cholera epidemic would be in Cuba if there wasn’t adequate medical care. What if this happened in Bangladesh where workers work elbow to elbow in sweat shops every day? It’s situations like this that make me more and more grateful that I live in a nation where I often take doctor visits for granted!
This was an interesting article... I did not realize that cholera was still a significant health concern in so many other countries. I always related cholera to books that I read about the U.S. in the late 1800's and even early 1900's. I never took the time to consider that while the U.S. has made advances to practically eliminate the prevalence of diseases such as this in our country, many other countries have been unable to make the same advances. Therefore, it makes sense that there would be a significant challenge with the illness in countries like Haiti, which the article briefly references. I also thought it was interesting that the illness was significant enough for the U.S. to issue a travel alert to Cuba due to cholera. This article was definitely a bit of an eye-opener!
Sarah, I thought this was a very interesting article since it made me see connections between the readings regarding quality of human life and how the quality of resources can affect quality of life. Who would ever think cholera would be a threat, especially in the magnitude your article depicts. Living in the United States usually gives us a security blanket to trust the water from municipal water suppliers so that its consumption does not typically flood doctor’s offices. However, this is not the case for developing countries as your article demonstrates. This is another terrible example of when a government will not or cannot afford to take care of its people. I once taught water quality trainings and one fundamental principle I taught my students was if you want to see the quality of life a group of people have, look at the availability of clean water to them.
This week in class we talked about how people like to wear blinders to other countries problems. I can admit that I tend to do this and without being in this class I would continue to wear my blinders. Not because I don’t care about others and their struggles but because I do not know what to do. This article states that I am not the only one wearing blinders. The article accuses the President of the United States and Israel’s other ally’s of ignoring the Syria genocide and the dangers that Israel is facing. The President stated Syria use of chemical weapons has crossed the line and the U.S. would be compelled to attack, but then he changed his mind. By stating the U.S. would have to wait for congress approval. This change of heart came after Britain stated they would not participate in the Syria attack. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Netanyahu) has not used accusatory language towards the United States for not helping with the current genocide. His statements describe a feeling of being alone. His statements are reassuring and he is careful to not offend any ally. He states that Israel is strong and their enemies should fear them. His language is meant to soothe anxious citizens, by sounding powerful and not afraid but his optimistic, non judging comments are not shared by others. Others are angered by America’s idea to wait for congress permission to act. House Minister Uri Ariel (Ariel) compared the U.S. ignoring Syria to in-action during the Holocaust. Ariel stated the U.S. could have least helped intervene in the chemical action. Ariel stated that genocide should never be ignored. Ariel is not the only one that feels angry and disappointed in the lack of ally back up. As there is much media in Israel describing feeling of disappointment and anger. Yoaz Hendel, a former adviser to Netanyahu, feels that Israel’s ally’s have wasted time and gave Syria more time to hide weapons, create more weapons, and the killing will continue. Netanyahu feels that Ariel should not speak so harshly against an ally.
Fukushima radiation levels 18 times higher than previously thought. Kasey Gray 9/2/2013 My article comes from the town called Fukushima in Japan, this article is about radiation leakage in their water system, which cases environmental problems in all surrounding areas. This is very interesting because the article suggest that although this was separate from the 2011 tsunami, that they believe these leaks may have started soon after the tsunami hit. If that is the case, then this radiation leak has been going on for over two years. While reading this I fear the lives of these workers, and people who are in the surrounding areas, the article states that the leakage has also seeped into the sea as well, and fishermen could not make their annual catch during the month of August due to the radiation leakage. I can’t help but to compare this to the United States, I think if it were here this would be considered a huge disaster and a big warning for all surrounding places. But in Japan in this instance the article states that “initially there were only two workers who were sent to check 1000 storage tanks on the site. Neither of the workers carried dosimeters to measure their exposure to radiation, and some inspections had not been properly recorded”. While reading that in the article the only thing I could think of for only having two workers to check these 1000 tanks, is that they have limited sources of money to pay for speedy inspection. I know if I lived there, I would be worried about the safety of my household, and those two brave souls who are checking these without any monitors of the radiation, which is highly dangerous and detrimental to their health, but it also poses a huge risk for all persons in the households as well. Japan’s nuclear workers are allowed 50 millisieverts annually, but in this case the records indicated one of the storage tanks was submitting 70 millisieverts per hour! This is a huge difference compared to what the workers are only supposed to be exposed to on a yearly basis, and just to think of what this is doing to their environment, and the people in it.
I forgot to talk about how this related to class. This article would go along with our global problems book, especially the economic development. In this article we are potentially looking at economic resources and experts to be able to find a solution to the leakage before it reaches any other places in Japan.
I think the reason why Japan dealt with this very dangerous problem like that might relate with part of their culture. Japanese think "honor" and "shame" very seriously.As Kasey said that if American were experienced same problem, their responses would be different. In Japanese perspective, it would have been better to hide if the event was shameful things and at the same time, they could not have thought that event would cause like that serious problem all over the world initially. That's why they reported late and ask help late from other countries that had techniques to fix it. But real serious problem is that actually nobody knows how seriously the leaking problem affect all the foods we eat daily basis and water we drink every day.Is there any international regulations or laws that can prevent from nuclear leaking problem in the future? What specifically supposed to be done to prevent this?
8/31/2013 – Civil War/Conflicts Shawn Lanham I could not believe when this story appeared on my homepage news feed this morning. I was getting ready to research articles for the conflict in Syria, since my topic for World Problems is Civil War, when I see this headline from ABC News. I have to admit I knew trouble is ‘brewing’ in this area of the world, but I was confused about why, who, and the ramifications of the possible intervention by the United States. This article gives a quick synopsis of history, political power, reasons for unrest and possible outcomes regarding interventions of the super powers. The civil war is a direct result of Syrians becoming unhappy with the Baathist party political regime and the rebels demanding democratic reform, which culminated into the government torturing and killing many of these protesters. The recent use of chemical warfare by the government has drawn the ire of many nations and the consideration to become involved in aiding the rebels in their attempt to overthrow the government. Since Russia and Syria are allies, it becomes increasingly more complicated if the United States intends to intervene. Russia has indicated that the U.S. should not become involved and that chemical weapon use was a hoax. Intervention would create instability in the Middle East, Russia, the United States, Israel and the rest of the world. It is speculated that the U.S. intervention would draw attacks on Israel from Syria and other Middle Eastern nations, which would then be vehemently defended by its’ strongest ally, America. President Obama has asked Congress for approval to strike Syria. In the coming days we will learn the Congressional and Presidential decisions that could affect numerous countries and countless civilians. This web of global interaction reminded me of the exercise our class engaged in outside last week. Numerous things will pull (like the yarn) on other countries, resources etc. and the ‘domino effect’ will be unknown. It is hard to predict the eventual outcome when considering this conflict, whether it is minimized/ends or results in World War III, it is obvious that many more lives will be lost before any resolution. http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/syrian-civil-war/story?id=20112311
This article was very interesting in such a way that it not only describes the political unrest in Syria, but why the civil war started in the first place, and the possible results of outside countries getting involved. There have been many issues that have come from this area already, one such issue has been the many people that have had to relocate, refugees, and many of them being children. The global impact is phenomenal to me, such as where are these children and families going to go and what kind of services are going to be available to them? There is the threat of another world war looming as well. The article has made me appreciate living in a country where we can protest our dislikes, like those who did on wall street, and don't have to worry about being killed or maimed. I too see the web exercise from class of how one tug on the string on the right side affects those interconnected in the web. This article was also able to answer my own personal questions of what and why this was going on. Good job on finding this article.
Vietnams Lost Children in Labyrinth in slave labor
Debra Smith- 9/2/2013 As I was searching for an article relating to my topic human trafficking, I was not prepared for what I was getting ready to find: article after article of small children and women all around the world being bought, sold and traded for little to no wages and living horrific lifestyles. This specific article struck my heart because these poor families were actually being convinced and happy to send their children off to work in factories as slaves, being told that they were going to vocational training, and getting good jobs. According to the article, Hieu, an 18 year old, escapee that had been held captive for 2 years, stated “we started work at 6 am and finished work at midnight.” He then went on to say that if they made mistakes they were beaten with a stick. The children, with the youngest being 11, were only allowed 11 minutes all day to use the restroom and that included washing, and using it something that we take for granted on a daily basis, we are free to get up as early as we want and use the restroom for as long as we need to here, and we never even let it cross our minds that this is something to be thankful for. According to the article, 7,000 people have been trafficked internationally and domestically in Vietnam since 2005. This is an unreal number of people, its more than the population of the city that I live in. The article goes on to talk about the legal confusion of the laws and regulations. International trafficking is something that has been recognized for a much longer time, but domestic trafficking laws have just been in effect since last January. Even though there are laws in place, there are no regulations because “it takes time and training.” Most laborers even if they are caught are not convicted as criminals but as administrative sanctions. The factory where Hieu was at was only charged a $500 fee, and closed down. $500 for housing, kidnapping, enslaving children and teenagers in harsh conditions is NOTHING. These criminals, in my opinion, need to be punished more accurately for the pain and suffering they have brought. Some are not even charged because they are “paying” the children, the wages sometimes don’t even add up to $50-$100 a year, according to the article. In class, we discussed how we as Americans wear blinders and “ear muffs” when it comes to other countries problems, because it is not affecting us or our everyday lives but what if it was. Coming from a poor, rural area (not as poor as the ones in the article) if a company, or college had come to me at 17 offering me a full scholarship, and training programs I cannot say that I wouldn’t have looked into it, and just as easily been taken away from my family to better myself. My mom used to tell me that she always wanted better for me than she had, and a good education was the focus of that. I feel as though all parents feel this way especially in such poor places, these “people” are preying on this idea just to get cheap labor and I personally find that sickening, and after reading these articles I will definitely be checking the tags on my next purchase. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-23631923
Debra - this was a truly fascinating and very distrubing article. I was aware that human trafficking is a large global problem, but the numbers represented in this article are staggering. It states that roughly 80% of those trafficking in Vietnam are women and children. And what is even more sickening is that some of these women and children are forced into prostitution or a similar type of servitude. I agree with you that enough is not being done to punish the individuals responsible for these actions. If punishment was more consistent and fit the crime then more people would do it. I do not know if you have read the Not For Sale book, but it provides a similar picture and reasons why punishment is not carried out very effectively. According to the book, in many international locations, law enforcement and government are involved in this business and have a stake in ensuring that traffickers are able to continue in this vial trade. I really enjoyed that article. Thanks for sharing
Wow is all that I can say after reading your article. While completing a project for my undergrad degree I researched child labor in Africa. By reading this article I can tell that the problem goes much farther than cocoa beans. One of the most disturbing things that I read in the article was that during one factory raid they found fourteen people eating, sleeping, and working in a small room with machines and that those people were only allowed to leave the room for eight minutes a day. These are inhumane conditions. I also thought that it was interesting to read that they sent them away from their village to work so that they couldn't just walk out of the door and go home. They came to the factory to work with no knowledge on how they got there and how they could get home at all. I agree with you that I will definitely look a little closer at tags next time I make a purchase!
In the article I found this week I read about an ongoing debate occurring in India. Last December there was a teenager found guilty for gang rape on a bus. I realize the incident occurred several months ago, but the article I read was only written yesterday so it seems as though police officials are still trying to get to the bottom of this case. The debate is over whether or not the punishment given to the teenager was fair. Because the boy was a juvenile he was sentenced to three years in a reform facility, and convicted for both rape and murder. Many Indian citizens feel as though the boy should be tried as an adult and given the death penalty because of the severity of the crime. Others feel that he should be given a second chance, an opportunity to turn his life around and not make the same mistakes again.
This is such a difficult situation, and I am sure I would feel differently if it affected me personally. Because the boy was 17, I feel as though he should be tried as a 17 year old. There is a reason those laws are in place and I think that if they let this boy be tried as an adult when would it ever stop? Would they try a 10 year old as an adult? I realize the nature and severity of the crime, and in this case it does make it more difficult to reach a decision. However, I feel like there are laws in place for a reason and they should be followed. In my personal opinion, I do not think giving him the death sentence would solve anything. Yes, I believe he should be punished, but punished in a way in which he will reap the affects and also be given an opportunity to change his life. I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross for EVERYONE including murderers, rapists, thieves, etc., and I believe that He loves them just like He loves me. I would hate to think that I was going to be given the death sentence every time I messed up and sinned.
This is just my personal opinion. I know everyone views situations like this differently. I also realize that Christianity is not the popular religion in India so my reasoning behind my opinion probably would not amount to much. That is just my heart and how I feel. Yes, the boy committed a crime and it was horrible. He should be punished! I just don’t think that changing the law and trying him as an adult in order to give him the death sentence in the answer.
Anti-Muslim Monk Stokes Burmese Religious Tensions
This article covers a religious war in Myanmar (formerly Burma) between Buddhists and Muslims. The article initially speaks about how 200 people, mostly Muslims, have been killed while many others have been displaced from their homes over the course of a year in Myanmar. It is speculated that Buddhists who are part of a national organization called 969 are responsible for the Muslim killings.
969 is led by Buddhist monk, Shin Wirathu. Wirathu claims that there is a Muslim "master plan" to turn Myanmar, which is 90% Buddhist and 5% Muslim, into an Islamic state. He says that the Muslims are "invaders" and that for the last fifty years the Buddhists have been shopping in Muslim stores making the Muslims rich and in turn the Muslims have been marrying Buddhist women. Wirathu also blames the Muslims for the killing of many Buddhists including women and children.
While there is significant support for the 969 group, there is also much opposition, even from within the Buddhist community. Kaylar Sa, a monk who is currently in jail for participation in the Safron revolution in 2007, stated that he believes the 969 movement is "completely unnecessary". He also stated that he fears that the movement could stand in the way for democratic reform.
Another monk, Smar Nyi Nyi also expressed concern about the focus on the movement and the Buddhist/Muslim conflict. He stated that there is so much attention being put on the conflict that other significant issues are not getting the attention they deserve. He also said something that left a great impression on me. He said "We don't use drones - we haven't killed [Osama] Bin Laden or Saddam Hussein or the Taliban. We are just preaching and posting on the internet and Facebook for the safety and security of our nation. If we are all protecting our own nation who's the bad guy - Wirathu or Barack Obama?"
I thought about this statement for quite some time trying to figure out what he meant. Finally, what I came up with is that he is simply saying they are the same as we are. Buddhists are known for being peacekeepers and for a disbelief in killing, which is partly why there is a lot of focus on this conflict. However, America is predominantly Christian and Christians are supposed to be peacekeepers and abstain from killing, yet we have justified killing Bin Laden and Hussein for the sake of protecting our country, so why should the Buddhists in Myanmar be looked at any differently?
Amanda, as you pointed out, the article states that only 5% of Mynamar is Muslim, so it strikes me as odd that some of the Buddhists claim that they fear their country is being taken over by them. They say that the Muslim merchants are taking over because of their acquired wealth which kind of reminds me of the Nazi propaganda involving Jews in WWII.
The remark about Obama was kind of like a "mind your own business" or "point the finger back at yourself" statement. While he has a point, it is just a diversion tactic. I think many foreign leaders and citizens of other states think we are full of hypocrisy and even as Americans, sometimes our own actions are very hard to defend while pronouncing judgement on other countries.
Amanda, I do understand the fear of the Buddhists,because, and I know it sounds stereotyped, but the Muslim population increases in much larger proportions as others (I don't have websites right now), and considering this fact, the 5 % could become 20 or 30 in a couple of years.This does not excuse the attacks, and especially the dots on the stores reminds me of the Jewish yellow stars, I see Marshall thought of it too. I do believe that these religious fires are going to be inflamed more and more as each ethnic group is searching more and more for identity and its approval.
29 August 2013 Analysis: As Laos prospers, child malnutrition persists Brian Tucker
As I was researching the topic of Poverty throughout the world, I began thinking about countries that are economically growing and the challenges they face to overcome poverty. I found this article on Laos and the issues the country is facing to fight malnutrition in impoverished areas. The article discusses the economic growth of Laos that is suspected to propel the country to middle income status by 2020. The steady economic growth over 10 years has decreased the poverty rate from 44% to 27.6% within the country. For the first time, Laos has become a full member of the World Trade Organization in February of 2013. Given the financial growth of Laos, it is still the second highest rate of malnutrition in East Asia and the Pacific. According to the article, 44% of children under 5 years of age suffer from malnutrition. Many factors are involved to exacerbate the malnutrition rates. These factors include breastfeeding practices; women’s workloads that have them out in the fields instead in the home caring for newborns; natural hazards such as pests and flooding that attack food sources; villagers that live in rural areas and have limited resources; and the lack of educational awareness to promote healthier lifestyle practices. Laos is currently working with other agencies, such as UNICEF, UN, and CARE Laos to implement programs to educate and promote a better way of life for its citizens. These programs consist of better educational programs to citizens, the importance of a nutritional diet, breastfeeding practices that are healthier to newborns, and the reduction of women’s workloads. The article goes on to explain the government of Laos is trying to make changes in both behavioral and developmental areas of citizens to promote a better way of life. As I was reading the article, I recalled from class discussion about rights as a citizen to society and rights as a global citizen. The citizens of Laos have had this way of life for many generations and may be reluctant to change from outside influences; even if it is their own government suggesting the changes. A question I derived from reading this article is how willing are the citizens going to be to accepting change to their cultural practices?
Brian, that was a very interesting article. It is heartbreaking to think about the way the way these people are used to living. Malnutrition is a norm for them. It seems as though the government is making an attempt to better the lives of its citizens. You bring up a very good point though. How willing are the citizens going to be to accept this change? Is it really feasible to go into a culture and tell the people they are going to have to change their way of living? If this is the only way of life they know, i would guess that the people of this country would be very hesitant to making such a drastic change.
Brian, this was a very sad but interesting article. I feel so bad for the infants who are born into these situations, they are not getting enough nutritious milk that is needed to keep their immune system healthy. When the article said these families live on 1.25 per day (which was in 1992) I could not imagine only making that per day to feed my family. Another thing that struck home is these families only eat meat 3 times per month, sometimes we take lots of things for granted that are in front of us everyday, and do not think of others. These people just don't have the means to get what they need in everyday life. It also broke my heart to read that 5,000 babies die each year from nutrition related problems. My two boys are ages 3 & 4, and I couldn't imagine the pain these mothers felt watching their babies health deteriorate in front of them, and knowing they had no money to get food for nutrition for them. This is so heart breaking, it makes you appreciate what you have and look at things in a different light.
Liberia recently raised its qualifications for getting accepted into the University of Liberia. They raised them so high, that not a single student passed their standardized test. After reading this article, I had my doubts about how it would be possible for every single student who took the entrance exam, to fail. Twenty five thousand students is a large group to be denied an education. As David-Tarpeh said, some of these students went to good schools and from the sound of it, would have been prepared. I am highly suspicious as to how they were scored and what the basis was for not admitting a single person. If this were in America, I feel that there would be a huge outcry in response to something of this nature. If Harvard did not admit a single freshman this year, I can only imagine how many news networks that story would dominate. Furthermore, in regards to why they were all denied, I think that lacking the English language should not be the number one determining factor. This is happening in Africa, therefore, why must all students grasp English so proficiently. I feel that the entire article relates to basic human rights that we have discussed in class. Here is a large amount of students who are in high school, who are trying to further their education and go on to college, and none were able to meet the requirements. Quite frankly, there are a lot of rights being violated. The article mentioned that the schools have been known to be corrupt. Some students pay for grades while others, no matter how hard they studied, will never get in. All students should have the same equal opportunities to education. This also relates to the “what is fair” concept that we discussed. How fair is it that student A is smart and worked so hard, yet student B has a little more money and is able to buy their way in. It goes on to teach these students that corruption is how you get somewhere in life. Finally, I was pleased to see that the university was required to admit 1800 students. However, that left me to ponder what will happen to the other 23,200 students. What kind of opportunities will they have living in such an impoverished country? For many, education is the only means to escape a life of poverty and yet, so many are unable to do so.
This article directly relates to our reading of both Surnu and Midgley texts. Despite large economic growth in Asia-Pacific, there are a tremendous amount of people still living below the poverty line. Over the past 2 decades, strong economic growth has pushed millions of people into middle class jobs but the gap between rich and poor continues to increase. As our readings portrayed, foreign, more developed countries may bring in more jobs to Asia-Pacific, yet fail to bring in better education. Even if some citizens reap the benefits of having these brought in factory jobs, those left without work fall even lower on the poverty chain then before. The working poor do not have higher education and therefore can not climb the ladder any higher. I instantly feel aggressive due to the lack of thought developed countries have when it comes to other countries. They and their business may benefit by moving industries over seas, but they fail to bring in processes that will truly benefit the nations as a whole. If the US put just as much effort into saving a buck and they do higher education for the countries they are basically using, Asia-Pacific would see a tremendous decrease in poverty. Even though the focus of the article was not about industry, the fact that labor for the middle class holds a whole different definition then to poor, uneducated farmers, can aggravate the soul. The article states, "Part of the solution is to increase infrastructure investment to facilitate shifts from agriculture to higher value-added industry and services" shows just how oblivious we are when we make quick solutions to huge issues. There is little education available, so how would moving to industry and services be possible for these individuals? I instantly thought of imperialism when I read this article. When will this age old 'tradition' end?
"India must stop viewing disasters as acts of God - report"
I found an interesting article this week that examines the “India Disasters Report.” According to the article, the report was written by “academics, aid workers, scientists and analysts.” The article looks at how the aggressive industrial development of India is not taking precautionary measures in building a sound infrastructure. Most importantly, it argues that disasters are not simply just always an “act of God” but can also be caused, or at least perpetuated by the hand of man.
The article sites the report as stating that the tremendous demand for growth ignores putting safe building practices in already disaster prone areas. The article also states that there has been a very significant lack of warning systems in place as well as sheltering structures and aid when disasters happen. The most important lesson of the article is that the demand for resources has put the safety and welfare of the Indian people at risk. The article is a plea for putting human life above monetary gains while acknowledging that expansive industrialized growth throughout the country is going to continue.
One of the most interesting facts I got out of the article was actually how disaster ripe India is and has been historically. The article states that “around 76 percent of India’s coastline is prone to cyclones and tsunamis, while 59 percent of the country is vulnerable to earthquakes, 10 percent to floods and river erosion and 68 percent to droughts.” These figures are made even more shocking when you consider that India has over one billion inhabitants. When you add in a huge desire for growth by both internal and external influences, India must also have a strong desire for preparedness of such a radical transformation in order to limit environmental and human causalities.
This definitely is an interesting article to say the least. You would think with being in an area such as India that has such a heavy population and is prone to disaster, that the country would have a comprehensive disaster prep and management program in place. Labeling any disaster as an act of God will not allow them to have the preparation that they need, but the country needs to take care of their citizens.
"In India, Hundreds March on Parliament to Demand End to Child Labor"
Link to article: http://world.time.com/2013/08/29/in-india-hundreds-march-on-parliament-to-demand-end-to-child-labor/print/
Child labor is an apparent world problem, especially in India. I found a very recent article in Time that demonstrates the current political state of India’s citizens and government officials regarding child labor. Recently, the government considered legislation which prohibits child labor under the age of fourteen years old combined with more stringent penalties for those groups who employ children for labor. This article explained that there are approximately twelve million children susceptible to child labor in India. Vulnerable children included in that number work in stone quarries, carpet factories, and rice mills. These children have been sold into slavery by a very old mechanism of human labor. They are sold into bonded slavery into the sex trade or domestic service industry. The petition that was presented to New Delhi legislators explained these vulnerable children have school withheld from them, work as much as 18 hours daily, experience crippling injuries, and develop chronic respiratory illness and pain. Child advocates are asking the government to legally terminate hazardous work for all people under 18 and any child under 14 years old. For younger people, the advocates are using the Right to Education Act (2009) which ensures each child’s right to education in support of their effort. This article connects with several readings assigned in this course. Nearly all the articles of the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” of human life may be related to this article. From the perspective of the child, the advocates identify the child’s need for school, safety, security, humane treatment, and fairness for quality of life. There is also a recommendation for enforcement of prosecution for those individuals/ businesses who employ children illegally. Child advocates in India argue for more stringent enforcement of the anti-child labor law and required child education. Advocates request the government to actually prosecute and assign mandated penalties to offenders. The effect of this demonstrates a positive change to improve the rights of vulnerable children. The article furthermore relates to issues of human justice discussed in Garcia and Soest (2006). These authors explain that social justice includes fulfillment of human rights characteristic for a life of dignity and respect. Children’s rights fall under this blanket as well.
Michelle, I loved your post about this issue. Human Trafficking has always been something close to my heart, because of my passion for wanting to keep all the children in the world in a bubble! I enjoyed reading about the advocates and the different policies that the advocates are putting into play. I think that is what the world as a whole needs is more advocates to stand up and fight for whatever they believe in. Thanks for sharing.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-23126814 (AGING) Where are the missing 90-year-olds?
In this article by Ruth Alexander; she points out the 2010 Census in the United Kingdom estimated a higher percentage of people living in their 90’s. When the census was published in 2011 it gave an alarming surprise that thousands of people were missing. Alexander states the data revealed 30,000 people unaccounted. The question was asked, where were these people?
The article states the life expectancy age has increased in developed countries over the last 200 hundred years by 2.5 years each decade. This increase has been due to improvements of children and maternal mortality, low mortality rates among children and adults, and smoking has dropped. Alexander points out the “average global life expectancy has increased by 6 years from birth”. Now in the UK the life expectancy of a man aged 65 has increased by 14 years since the early 1980s and stands currently plus 21 years.
So where are these 90 year old people? Alexander researched and found out that these individuals have died. When statisticians estimated the projected ages of living persons in the UK; they had simply over estimated. Individuals living in the UK did not live as long as they predicted. The article goes on to talk about how life expectancy has increased in other areas of the world such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
This article ties in with our readings about global inequalities. In our book, Global problems, on page 18 in table 1.1 it shows life expectancy at birth from high to low income countries. Our readings suggest even with technology, medical and economic improvements in parts of the world, poor countries continue to fall behind. There has been a slight increase in countries like India and China due to improvement of life conditions. However, some parts of Africa the life expectancy has decreased. This decrease is caused by the epidemic of HIV/AIDS.
I found your article find very interesting. I found it particularly intriguing that the individuals that were recorded as 90-year-old people had died and that statisticians had over estimated. I found the part about the life expectancy decreasing in many countries eye opening of how far we really have come as a world. I had just written my blog on South Africa and how HIV/Aids has affected that country so I found it again heart wrenching that your article had stated that, “over the past 20 years the life expectancy for South Africa had decreased by five years, almost entirely to the HIV epidemic.” We read in Sernau that globalization involves economic, political, and cultural interconnectedness. The division of the world really does have to deal with all of those especially dealing with the geographically where someone lives and what resources are available to them. The chart shown in the article put things in perspective for me and made me really start to see how much of a blessing it has been to live here in the United States. How the average life expectancy for some countries are under 60-this being the result of the social conditions those countries face (life expectancy, adult literacy, etc.). It makes you begin to think about close family members and friends and how old they are, and how grateful I truly am that they are still around constantly passing on their knowledge and values to me.
S. Michelle Wright SWK 615-Section 1 Topic: Asylum
Swiss segregation of asylum seekers: 'we get less respect than an animal'
An article I found which was published by “The Guardian” on August 26, 2013 indicated that cities in Switzerland are enforcing restrictions on residents in state operated facilities established for asylum seekers. The newest facility is located in Bremgarten where citizens of this town have placed skull/crossbones on signs stating, “No entry, Danger of death” on their property. Citizens were interviewed, "People here don't want their children to come into contact with asylum seekers because they believe the crime rate is very high," said Werner Birrer, a member of the anti-immigrant Swiss People's party (SVP) and resident of Alpnach. An estimated 48,000 people have sought asylum in Switzerland. Many residents of Switzerland see the asylum seekers as the cause of many social issues, such as, crime. The city of Bremgarten restricted asylum seekers from schools, sports facilities and public swimming pools. Raymond Tellebach, Mayor of Bremgarten stated that the restrictions are in place as a security measure to eliminate conflict among the citizens and asylum seekers. Among the asylum seekers is Azizi Abed which sought asylum 5 years ago from Iran. Mr. Abed feels that the restrictions are a violation of human rights. Mr. Abed reports feeling boredom, isolation, and disenfranchised due to the restrictions. Mr. Abed states that he is not allowed to work, no allowed to play a sport or go outside. Mr. Abed stated that he shares his bedroom with 4 others and his kitchen with 28 other people. Mr. Abed stated that they are all suffering the mental effects of this isolation. After reading this article it became apparent to me that the asylum seekers in Switzerland are be segregated from the general public or citizens of Switzerland. Communities in Switzerland that obviously do not want the facilities in their areas are establishing restrictions/policies within their communities to isolate the immigrants. According to Garcia and Soest, racism is a form of oppression. Social workers need to not only respond to the symptoms of oppression, but identify and respond to the source of the oppression. In my opinion, Switzerland is responding to the citizen’s fears and ignorance in regards to the asylum seekers. Switzerland is mandating harsh restrictions for the asylum seekers creating many mental health issues, such as, depression and isolation. Citizens of Switzerland are fearful that the crime rate in their communities will increase due to the influx of immigrants. I feel that social workers could assist asylum seekers by advocating for them within the communities and creating recreation, employment and educational opportunities for them.
What a mess! This article is displaying globalization in form of scrutiny of a nation’s increasing struggle to embrace their less fortunate world-neighbors and keep at the same time their residents sound, exposing discrepancies and poor or selective implementation of legislature between upper and lower level government and letting the rural environment know that the eye of the world is watching. The drama of humanity’s face (smiling as to accepting asylum-seekers and crying as to their treatment) is developing in the rural and once “hidden” environment and showing disruption in the distributive, cumulative and legal justice flow. I am particularly appalled that the mayor is “bemused” at the international outcry and offers the excuse of “misunderstanding” for the discriminating actions. It is important to note that each country enters voluntarily into a collaborative contract with the UNHCR, and receives then a capacity-proportionate percentage assigned. The UNHCR, as part of their migration management context, recognizes that cooperating countries have to deal with “mixed migration flows”, but that local and international NGO within the EU have “developed more sustainable and independent structures than NGOs in other States and are increasingly able to contribute directly to the development of policies on asylum and migration.” http://www.unhcr.org/4688b4af2.html. The mayor could have participated in this approach to communicate his community’s concerns and seek for a mutually beneficial solution instead of allowing conflict to escalate, being as elected official (hopefully) cognizant of his community’s undercurrents (consider anti-asylum and anti-segregation group formation). It appears also that intra- government communication is poorly managed and the government’s desire to accommodate asylum seekers does not offer a culturally sensitive plan in regard of how “they want to take the communities on this path”. Although I don’t disregard the residents’ fears, they ignore or lack education on why asylum-seekers need the refuge of another country in first place. Empathy to the fact that instead of a safe place, they are met with hostile behavior, isolation and discrimination is replaced by fear of the unknown. I wouldn’t be surprised then if the asylees would also prefer the return to their country of origin as mentioned in another article. Citizens here choose to keep the blinders on at the expense of violating human rights, lacking awareness of the legal components, the nation’s goals and responsibilities and their own responsibility as “global citizens”, to which they collectively agreed when Switzerland entered into the collaborative contract. A lot of the stereotyping, fear-mongering and discrimination could be decreased with community-wide sensitive approaches, education on ethnic groups, forums and fellowship meetings to afford acculturation for the asylees and increased understanding in the community, intertwining in a healthy way the dynamics of a global world. I would hope that the anti-segregation group could engage in some form of advocacy and awareness rising, launching a process that could generate much good and possibly clear some of the clogged paths.Thanks for choosing it.
Latin America and Caribbean Overview In search of an article this week I found a recent report on the World Bank strategy for reducing poverty and enhancing shared wealth. The bank addressed five core areas: reducing poverty, boosting growth /productivity, more efficient states, green growth/ global involvement and avoiding natural hazards/manmade disasters. Reducing poverty is on the banks priority list because more than 82 million people are living on less than $2.50 a day, helping women receive higher pay, increasing growth and working conditions, adequate public services and providing green services are also a priority for the World Bank. The article also indicated that Latin America and the Caribbean will showed an economical growth of 3.3% - 3.5% in 2013 – 2014 and Panama, Chile and Peru having a growth rate being above average. Brazil and Mexico being the regions powerhouses, will progress in 2013 with 3.2% from a measly 0.9% in 2012, Central America and the Caribbean, not including El Salvador are estimated to grow above 3.5%, Panama is estimating 8%, Chili and Peru are expecting 5 to 6 % rates. Due to the regions improvements 73 million people are out of poverty and 50 million are in the middle class. The World Bank offered financial services beyond traditional loans. They tailored services to each country’s needs. The World Bank, in 2012 committed $11.8 billion to the region’s economies, $7 billion from IBRD and IDA, $4.9 billion from IFC (the Bank Group’s own private sector). The Bank’s help in the continuing role of the Haiti’s recovery to helping Brazil and Mexico (advanced economies) “green up.” Some of the main results include: Haiti-received over 1.5 million for health/sanitation, education and prevention training and 73 communities was provided risk maps and emergency contingency plans. El Salvador- seen tax collection increase by 2 percent. Nicaragua- the learning conditions in primary schools improved after receiving 1 million new textbooks. Approximately 235,000 people in metropolitan Montevideo, Uruguay received access to potable water. 23 Argentine provinces benefited from investments in infrastructure. Brazil- more than 600,000 passengers on a daily basis are using the greener Sao Paulo metro line. Mexico launched a framework to regulate green growth and fund the sustainable use of energy. http://www.worldbank.org/en/region/lac/overview
This article was interesting. As we continue to learn about economies of the "South" countries. This article points out that some are having solid economical growth. While other countries still continue to struggle. The article pointed out because of labor development this growth has occured. This is good for those countries, however, is this due to countries like the United States outsourcing? Also could the growth include tourists coming in and out of these countries. I hear many Americans and people world-wide talking about going to these beautiful warm countries for vacations. One thing the article ended up saying is that even though they are having solid economic growth the death rates are rising. This is the same thing that Dr. Hansford referred to that happened in India. Countries recieve a increase in their economies but still haven't addressed their social problems.
HIV/AIDS: South Africa grapples with dilemma of pregnant students
Leslie Carver 9/3/13 5pm
When I started this assignment I must say I was very excited to learn more about a topic that seems to be taking our world by the numbers each year. But in all my excitement of learning more, it turned into my heart aching at the pictures and articles I came across. In search for an article I found this recent report about not only women but more so the young women of South Africa under the age of 18. Many of you are probably thinking the same thought I had in regards of the term woman usually meaning over the age of 18. As I read the article it discussed how the Constitutional Court was ruling in South Africa that the schools could not expel students for becoming pregnant. But stating that the country is still finding it difficult to cope with the issue of pregnancy which affects over 180,000 girls yearly. The article continues to tell brief stories of young ladies overwhelmed in the ever so usually painful duty of a mother, the birthing process. Of course not something that any women can state they loved the pains of, but rather it was worth it in the end. Responses for many of these young ladies in the hospital were more over the fact that they aren’t sure where the father is/was, or if the fathers family knew. Thoughts and feelings of disgrace to their parents for getting pregnant and finding themselves in the situation they are in. These girls like many in South Africa, were only fourteen and sixteen. All of this seems like issues that many of us have been a part of, or have witnessed, or have heard here in the United States. But risks in the United States pregnancy and resources available to most, weighs higher than that available or more so accepted in South Africa. The article states that 36% of maternal deaths every year are teenage mothers, and doctors state that there is a risk in giving birth at a young age because their pelvises are not yet developed. Many young girls walk the halls of their schools trying to find any way they can to hide that they are pregnant, but many are forced to leave the schools in order to take care of their children, and in some cases are forced due to the schools lack in being able to support expectant mothers. “Officials are worried that unprotected sex among teenagers could hamper the fight against HIV/Aids.” The article stated that about three million people in KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) are HIV positive, this country is has the highest number of people living with Aids virus in the world. Pause for a moment and process the previous statement. I found myself shaking my head, not in disbelief but more so with my heart reacting to my mind- what can I do, yet what can we do to change this disease that is increasing thousands of miles away, or even in our nation, in our community? Just like we discussed and demonstrated in class last week, we are all connected in some way. We have to have mindsets that are more aware of the pieces that are putting all of these life issues, life stories, life choices together. We are all a part of the same world, yet why do I feel like, little ole me in another “blessed” country is at a loss for words. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-23346288
While completing my research for an article that covered a food/water issue I came across an article titled “Yemen facing water shortage crisis.” Yemen is located in Southwestern Asia. While watching the news clip that was linked with the article I was in shock. The shock stemmed from the fact that while watching the video you could see puddles of water everywhere. Some areas even appeared to be flooded. According to the news story half of the population of Yemen has no access to clean water. The news story also reported that the drought in Yemen is so severe that it is estimated that the capital could run dry in ten years.
There are several reasons as to why Yemen is facing such a severe water crisis. Some of these reasons are that not enough is done to harness rain water and the government does nothing to regulate the water usage in the area. Instead of using the rain to water their crops, farmers are drilling for water. The farmers in the video reported that they are having to drill deeper than they ever have for the water, and that you can feel the water pressure being lowered as they are pumping the water. The article states that it is estimated that approximately 90% of the country’s water resources are used for the purposes of agriculture. Half of this water is used to cultivate a popular plant known as khat. Khat is a stimulant that is known to produce euphoric feeling when chewed or brewed in tea. Chewing khat is a popular tradition in Yemen.
One way that this information is tied to our readings for the week is through the Millennium Development Goals Report 2011. This report states that the limits for sustainable water resources have already been exceeded in Western Asia. The report also states that these limits make it impossible for everyone to receive their fair share of water. It’s sad to think that even if the government decided to step in and regulate the usage of water in Yemen, it is probably too late. Hopefully the people of Yemen will find a way to sustain water before clean water is completely gone.
Replying to Brandy. It was interesting to read and watch the video on the water shortage in Yemen. I think you made a wonderful point that was also backed in the video segment regarding government regulation. It is probably too late and even the expert interviewed concluded that not much could be don't since most agriculture was not regulated. It was also very interesting and sad when they stated that 14000 children don't have clean water and die each year from malnutrition. I did some quick math and found that equated to 38 per day. If there were 38 children in Kentucky dying from thirst and malnutrition per day, people would be advocating for immediate change and getting results. It is a shame that typically the most vulnerable suffer and when it is not a superpower country it tends to go unnoticed.
Leslie I found your article very interesting and sad at the same time. It amazes me that with all of the medical miracles young girls would be dying during child birth due to c-sections, but like all things it takes money to have good medical care. I realize that agencies donate medical equipment and doctors go over and assist these countries, but it is hard to understand. The issue of being bullied and teased by students and teachers is something that happens everywhere, even in the USA. The difference is if someone is being treated unfair in the USA they have the right to take legal action against the school. I can see how these young girls could feel hopeless in such an enviroment without any support not even your family. The article mentioned that the father's do not take responsibility and is doesnt seem that they are made to take any responsibilty. One question I have is if the schools and communities have any planned parenting program, HIV/AIDS education for young ladies and young men?
Michaela Vaillant, Terrorism, 2 September 2013, 10.44 pm - In Afghanistan, resurgent Taliban takes toll; more than 100 die in attacks in past week http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/war-zones/in-afghanistan-resurgent-taliban-takes-toll-more-than-100-die-in-attacks-over-the-past-week/2013/08/31/651d3de4-126e-11e3-a2b3-5e107edf9897_story.html This article refers to several Taliban-led insurgencies in Afghan provinces with deaths between foreign national & Afghan civilians alike, believed to be a reaction to failed peace talks & Egypt’s recent turmoils. Taliban’s mistrust of their government’s Western ties is shown in continued attacks of foreign targets despite troop withdrawals. American-backed peace talks initiations between Taliban leaders, Afghan & foreign officials failed & diplomatic encounters between moderate insurgent and government officials led nowhere as reportedly US officials tried to separate Taliban factions. Karzai’s efforts to enlist Pakistan’s help in re-negotiating with the Taliban failed despite offering concessions of Taliban prisoner releases. Leaving empty handed & after further insurgencies, Karzai accused Pakistan of backing Taliban aggression in order to destabilize Afghanistan. Yet independent analysts suggest a shrinking Pakistani influence on the Taliban, indicating a shift in initial pursuits of local freedom to expanded Muslim alliances worldwide as to Taliban’s capacity of global operations. Taliban’s wishes to pursue direct peace talks with the US clash with simultaneous attacks, indicating Egypt’s recent coup as evidence for US hypocrisy concerning the support of a democratic system & power-sharing in the Muslim world. - The reference to Taliban’s move from local operations to global extension ties in with Tim Friedman’s definitions of the 2nd (country) and 3rd (individual) era. Taliban was initiated by one individual: Bin Laden supported local mujahedeens against Soviet forces, expanded to intensive warfare training & eventually expanded his vision into Al Qaeda’s pursuit of Pan-Islamic worldwide rule & Sharia Law in lieu of secularism. Several reports suggest ideological splits between the Taliban factions, with the Afghan side pursuing their nation’s freedom from foreign influences and the Pakistani following more Al Qaeda’s goals. A “nationalistic” movement transcended geographic boundaries (see also Kashmir) and grew exponentially and globally. Globalization allowed for “activities that foster increased contact between people in different countries” (p. 21, Midgley), however these contacts did not benefit the very people they want to liberate. How does Afghanistan’s poverty level (36 %, CIA) fit into huge amounts of funds poured in technology and weaponry? - Playing devil’s advocate, Garcia’s form of justice based on social construct appears to justify Al Qaeda’s goals of freeing Arab countries from Western influence in “rectifying” the wrongs done to Muslims in past centuries, even if violating human rights. How then do we apply cultural competence and defend the basic human right to live to a culture which to a great part disregards human life if it serves the greater good? How can we apply cultural sensitivity engaging with many ethnic groups &nations while pursuing the defense of UN established human rights? Although I don’t condone violence in general, one thought though: if our family members would be hostages and the only way to freedom is violence ( SWAT), which life matters? I understand Garcia’s point that we need to graps the different lenses people see social justice from- tough job. Jesus though directed his disciples: preach in Samaria, then Jerusalem, then to the entire world. Emulating this journey could be done, with courses just like this one, stimulating our thoughts and challenging us to action.
There is a monster called debt that has affected China. According to the video “China’s Debt Addiction” by Financial Times, China has a large debt addiction. Debt is a growing hardship within the population of China. Several aspects have been affected, businesses have suffered, Land sales have suffered, and villages have to fetch their own water because of unfinished construction. Many people in China are financially struggling to get by on a daily basis. China has been increasing with debt since 2008. In 2008, the gross domestic product was 130% in 2013 the GDP was 200%. That is a dramatic jump in a short amount of time. The starting point of China’s financial problems began in 2008 and since then it has been significantly harder and harder to pay off debt. China is “deep in debt holes” as according to “China’s Debt Addiction”. In a podcast by Financial Times, Simon Rabinovitch, China Correspondent, stated several companies are unable to repay loans from the expected fact they are not financially stable. Due to the financial crisis in China, people have expressed concern of debt accumulating. It has been a battle that they have been fighting for the past five years now. In the video, it showed people striving to pay off what they already borrowed. On the streets of China, trash has started to pile up on the side of the roads; this is an example of how debt is such an impact on China. Allow many have lost jobs, businesses and have emotional stress, they have still found joy throughout. The video not only informed you with financial problems in China but it also showed that people can still enjoy life even in the most horrible circumstances.
Yolonda J Armstead Sep 3, 2013 7:34PM Earth Overshoot Day & Addressing the overshoot In 8 Months, Humanity Exhausts Earth's Budget for the Year. These articles expound upon the way that we as humans have consumed the earth’s resources for the year in an eight month period of time. The article stated that we have been shortening the period of reserve by three days since 2001. Humanity uses nature’s resources to build cities, roads, to provide foods, create products and to absorb our carbon dioxide. In the 70’s we reached a threshold whereas we began to consume more than we were able to replenish. The article states that not all countries are demanding more resource than the ecosystem can provide. Slowing population growth can play a role in addressing our overexploitation of limited resources. In order to slow down the demand and usage that the humans are requiring on earth’s resources, the second article that I listed that is tied to the Earth’s overshoot day suggests that overpopulation is addressed by families taking the initiative of planning their families, by strengthening women’s opportunities to study and work and also sex education along with the ability to manage their fertility. As humans that are dealing with the earths over populations, in addition to trying to deal with it from the population concern, we also have to face the concern of nature conservation and understanding a need to limit consumption. It is in our best interest to tend to our animals and making sure that we are getting them spayed and neutered as needed due to they are consumers also. In summary, every country has resources that are being exhausted, or on the brink of being exhausted before the years end without any reserve resources being available. We have to be good stewards over these resources by either being concerned about the earth’s population, planning our families, nature’s conservation and limiting consumption.
Syrian refugees in Iraq risking lives to return home amid funding shortfall
ReplyDeleteKristin Burger
In Syria, thousands of individuals are fleeing the country due to the recent civil war. According to an article on The Guardian website entitled, “Syrian refugees in Iraq risking lives to return home amid funding shortfall”, many of those fleeing Syria are deciding to return to the war zone as opposed to continuing to seek refuge in Iraq. The article states that roughly 200,000 Syrian refugees have sought safety in Iraq only to find the living conditions have become deplorable due to overpopulation in relation to the amount of funding that the refugee camps are given. More than one family has to live in tents created to house only one family. Because of the harsh living conditions and overcrowding, many of these refugees are choosing danger over safety by going back to Syria so that they can live in an area that is not overcrowded and underfunded.
When reading this article, I am reminded of the overcrowded safe houses of Kru Nam in Thailand in the book “Not For Sale” by David Batstone. As described in the update to the book, Nam is still struggling to find enough funding to expand her housing area because as she grows, more refugees come to her for safety. Another piece of this article that I found interesting that directly relates to the reading from the textbook and the class discussion is that the economy of Iraq has been significantly affected by the Syrian refugees. While it is difficult for refugees to secure a work permit for those who had to abandon their personal identification in Syria, some refugees have been successful in obtaining the right to work which is described in the article as having an impact on job availability to refugees and citizens and has caused an increase the cost of basic housing. Basically, there is more competition for basic amenities so business owners are able to set prices wherever they see fit. The article states that housing alone can cost a refugee 75% of their salary in Iraq which leaves hardly any funds left for other basic needs. Overall, this article addresses social welfare issues, economic issues, and political issues with Syrian refugees seeking safety in Iraq.
Gang, Rebecca (2013, August 30). Syrian refugees in Iraq risking lives to return home amid funding shortfall. The Guardian. Retrieved from: ttp://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/aug/30/syrian-refugees-iraq
Kristen,
DeleteThis is a perfect example of how sometimes the solution to a problem can lead to an even bigger problem. That is why it is so important to continually evaluate a situation to determine the best course of action or aid at any given moment. With the global political climate quickly changing across the world responders must be flexible in intervention types and direction of funding. The Syrian refugees who are experiencing such conditions as described in the article have been put through the ringer. Not only did they have to flee a first time from the threats of war, but also a second time from the deplorable living conditions in Iraq.
Kristen,
DeleteI enjoyed the topic of your article and found it to be interesting. I believe that scenarios like this exist all over the world and that Melissa summed it up perfectly in saying sometimes we don't realize how one solution to a problem can have unintended consequences and further complicate the issue, usually draining the resources and creating an even bigger problem to deal with. The people of Syria must feel betrayed in some sense. They thought it was going to be safe to flee their war-torn country only to be met with tremendous poverty and hardship in a country they thought would provide refuge. This reminds me of some of the domestic violence situations I encounter at work.
Kristen- The thought of the refugees camps being so overcrowded that the refugees would rather return to their home that is currently a war zone is almost unbearable to imagine. It seems that the article gave the facts regarding how poor the conditions are such as: 10% of cases, two families share the same tent, but I have a feeling that this does not describe the conditions there. If the conditions are so poor that people would rather take their chances in a war zone it must be so indescribable the writer of this article could or would not describe the true details of the conditions.
ReplyDeleteThe refugees are experiencing war at home and war in their escape. They are unable to find jobs without their proper identification and work permits. If that was not enough the supply and demand of the over population has caused rent to sky rocket to be 75% of their salary. Leaving them limited options of survival. You are so right when you said this article encompasses social welfare issues, economic issues, and political issues and it also is about many of the topics we discussed in class the other night such as human migration, non renewable resources, economics and etc. The burdens effecting these countries will eventually affect many countries
http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/aug/30/syrian-refugees-iraq
Jalena Robertson
08/31/2013
12:30 pm.
Melissa McIntosh Human Rights blog
ReplyDelete8/31/13
3:40 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-23899082
After reading the article, UN's Navi Pillay attacks Sri Lanka human rights record on the BBC News/ Asia website this writer is left with more questions than answers. Navi Pillay fills the position as a senior official for the United Nations as a Human rights commissioner. The government of Sri Lanka granted permission for Navi Pillay to explore their country for a week and investigate if the government had been meeting human rights standards as determined by the UN. The human rights standards can be viewed at the following link: http://www.un.org/en/documents/udhr/
Navi Pillay was allowed to explore areas of Sri Lanka in which wars have previously taken place. According to the article Navi Pillay was very dissatisfied with the conditions for and treatment of people in these areas and voiced her dissatisfaction openly. Although the Sri Lankan government reported they were an open book with no secrets to hide, Navi Pillay was informed by residents of this country that family members have gone missing and they have experienced pressures and harassment from military personnel. Navi Pillay was under the impression from the looks of things in Mullivaikkal, that the area had been tidied up and wreckage had been cleared away in preparation for her visit. Navi Pillay voices concerns related to attacks on religious minorities, and the governments attempt to convince Pillay that these issues are simply not a big deal. Pillay plans to report her findings to the Human Rights Council.
The war that took place in Sri Lanka lasted 26 years and ended just recently in 2009. Some people estimate that 9,000-75,000 civilian deaths occurred during the last month of the war. Although I feel relief in knowing that the UN is investigating human rights and fighting to ensure human rights standards are being followed, I can’t help but question how the UN can stop the mistreatment of people in other countries. Without placing someone on guard to protect these people how can the UN ensure that human rights are not being deliberately violated? Navi Pillay was left with the impression that Sri Lankan government had attempted to make things look appeasing to her during her visit and she was still left dismayed by what she witnessed. I can only imagine how people in these areas are treated when no one is looking. The severity of problems such as these blows my mind. Sadly enough, I feel an overwhelming urge to look the other way because I do not know how it would be possible to overcome such obstacles as the mistreatment of others. I pray that God is with the people who are suffering in countries such as this.
Addendum: This article relates to a discussion we had in class about how things that happen in other countries do effect the US. Anyone who watches the news recently has probably witnessed the debate about wether or not the US should become involved in the conflicts taking place in Syria. The UN has also been highly involved with investigation in that conflict.
DeleteMelissa,
DeleteYour article was very good and I found several parallels between the Russian & Sri Lankan government (the focus of my blog). Both want to outwardly portray that things are "fine" within their country when there is great evidence proving the contrary. This must be terrifying for the citizens of these countries to live in conditions that are dangerous and oppressive but know that they cannot do anything to oppose them for fear of retaliation from their own government. I too questioned the power of the United Nations to enforce any kind of real penalty on these countries who are obviously oppressing their citizens. If there is real, documented proof mistreatment, how can these people seek justice and do so without the fear of being punished?
Russia’s Anti-Gay Law, Spelled Out in Plain English
ReplyDeleteSubmitted by: Lisa Norton
8/31/13
The topic of Discrimination and/or Justice Issues is extremely broad and can make narrowing down your topic of interest daunting. While searching through articles on the internet I found something that I have been hearing a lot of buzz about in the news recently; Russia and their discrimination of Gay Athletes competing in the 2014 Winter Olympics. Now the article I chose does not deal with this controversy directly, but rather how gay men and women are openly discriminated against in Russia on a daily basis. The Policymic.com reported that on June 30th of this year, the Russian President Vladimir Putin supported and signed a bill into law that banned any/all “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations to minors.” Many believe that this is a direct attempt to influence any person under the legal age from pursuing any same-sex interests. The Russian government is going so far as to impose fines on any person, public official or organization found engaging homosexual propaganda via public peace marches, protests or the internet may pay fines from 4,000 rubles to 200,000 rubles. Non-citizens of Russia face the same fines along with jail time and immediate deportation.
How can Russia impose such restrictions after claiming that discrimination of any kind does not exist in Russia because the country’s constitution forbids it? Innokenty Grekov’s article explains that because the Russian government made the new law prohibiting homosexual propaganda so ambiguous that it can be twisted to reflect whichever side is most convenient to the judicial system. Translation: we can say that it is your personal right to engage in homosexuality but don’t do it publicly and/or encourage others to follow suit or there will be consequences.
Although it became legal to publicly promote a homosexual lifestyle in 1993, citizens are facing harsh consequences and violent attacks when demanding human rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states in its global proclamation that “All human beings are born with equal rights and undeniable rights and fundamental freedoms.” And in Article 2 it states that every person is “entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion…” My interpretation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is that all humans are not only free to live as they choose but it is their right. Article 19 supports the freedom of opinion and expression and Article 16 technically states that all men and women have the right to marry and pursue a family; however it doesn’t say specifically those men and women can’t marry someone of the same sex and create a family together.
It is my opinion that the Russian government wants to have their cake and eat it too. They would like to say that in theory that are giving their citizens the right to make decisions regarding their sexual lives and personal beliefs, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the government’s opinion of morality.
http://www.policymic.com/articles/58649/russia-s-anti-gay-law-spelled-out-in-plain-english
As a side note: There was an additional article that I found about the Russian government banning public protests over gay rights, at the 2014 Winter Olympics. This story directly supports the information in my previous article about imposing fines for individuals and organizations that chose to publicly support homosexuality. If anyone is interested in reading this article as well, it is short in length but interesting. You can find it at the link below.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-23819104
Wow! This article was really interesting and makes me feel even more sorry for the gay people of our world. This has to be the most hated people groups in the world, and mainly because people just don't like their lifestyle and the decisions they make that don't directly affect anyone else. It sounds crazy doesn't it? It seems as though there is just as much momentum in preventing gay rights as there is terrorism. The part that got me the most in this article is when the courts ruled "that gays incite hatred toward themselves and should be “protected” from doing so." Is this so because they fight for their beliefs and to be treated like equals? With a leader that doesn't seem to budge, I have a feeling that these people will never recieve the rights they fight for everyday. Such a sad world we live in.. Thanks for the article, it was very interesting!
DeleteAHHHH!!!! Sorry but that is exactly how this article makes me feel! So upsetting to see people standing in the way of progress. Just as "superiors" tried to deny women and African Americans their right to protest or show what they stood for in public, I promise LGBT will protest and show what they stand for until policies change. There is no way for the leaders of Russia to restrain young adults from becoming gay by restricting information. For many people who really are homosexual, information about homosexuality will not change the outcome. If they are gay they will not need posters and information to tell them they are. Take that Russian government :)
DeleteThis infuriates me. I feel that it has taken so many years for America's LGBT community to make gains and be treated as actual people so I cannot fathom why Russia does not take note from our mistakes and realize all the rights they are violating. Have their citizens no rights?! I think you nailed it by saying they want to have their cake and eat it too. They want to be able to say "hey, we are allowing freedom of expression, as long as we don't know about it or see it etc etc" but in actuality they are most definitely not. The part about fining people who actually have the courage to speak up and fight for their rights is maddening, as is the fact that they fine non citizens and deport them. Is their goal to have a "gay free" country? That thought is laughable. They would be better off to accept that some peoples morals differ from their own and that diversity is a beautiful thing verses trying to abolish a homosexual lifestyle. Sadly, the innocent citizens who are part of the LGBT community are the ones getting caught in the crossfire and are the ones who will be discriminated against, and it boils down to pure ignorance and fear.
DeleteThis makes me so mad. This reminds me of an argument a co-worker and I were having not to long ago. There was an issue going on in our church at the time which brought up homosexuality. I normally do not talk about politics but because I have homosexuals in my family, it irritated me. I started talking to my co-worker and he immediately started saying that It goes beyond what the Bible says and that they need prayer. Homosexuality has been going on for years but it may have been different then because it was never heard of as much. Now, it is out in the open and people are not use to it and people want no part in it. It sucks for those who do not have any rights and those who say this is a free country because not everyone is free. I love how you said they have to have their cake and eat it too. It is just like Candace said in class, Russia is wanting to put "blinders" on so that they do not have to see homosexuality even though it is going to happen whether they like it or not.
DeleteCholera outbreak in Cuba
ReplyDeleteSarah Yates 9-1-13 9:03 PM
There have been 163 new cases of cholera this year in Cuba. These outbreaks have been linked to the provinces of Havana, Santiago and Camaguey. So far there have been no deaths reported following this epidemic. Cholera is a waterborne disease that causes severe dehydration due to diarrhea and can be fatal if left untreated. In the province of Havana, the disease has been connected with two food distribution centers and there was immediate action taken to isolate the issue. Haiti, which is nearby Cuba has experienced thousands of deaths in recent years due to a cholera epidemic. There were twelve tourists out of the reported 163 cases who were infected with this nasty disease. Compared to last summer, in which Cuba had over 417 people infected and 3 fatalities due to cholera, this year’s numbers are significantly lower. The country has not had a problem in years until last year, and there are now posters everywhere stressing the importance of good hygiene to help prevent the spread of this disease. Reading this article really opened my eyes to how cholera can still be a problem. I recently watched a documentary about one of the wars in the 1800’s and how many men were sent home from duty because so many of their family had died from cholera. When I think of cholera I think about those massive graves they had to make just to dispose of all the bodies of people who had died, because there weren’t enough people around to help bury them all. I can also link this to one of the videos we were supposed to watch for class called “Hidden faces of Globalization.” In this video, many people who earned less than twenty cents a day could not afford the $5 it cost to receive medical attention or medicine if needed. Can you imagine? I often wonder how these people even survive on a daily basis with lack of good nutrition and clean dry living conditions, and horrible working conditions. They have to have one heck of an immune system! Watching this video made me think how bad the cholera epidemic would be in Cuba if there wasn’t adequate medical care. What if this happened in Bangladesh where workers work elbow to elbow in sweat shops every day? It’s situations like this that make me more and more grateful that I live in a nation where I often take doctor visits for granted!
http://www.nbcnews.com/health/163-new-cholera-cases-cuba-8C11010439
This was an interesting article... I did not realize that cholera was still a significant health concern in so many other countries. I always related cholera to books that I read about the U.S. in the late 1800's and even early 1900's. I never took the time to consider that while the U.S. has made advances to practically eliminate the prevalence of diseases such as this in our country, many other countries have been unable to make the same advances. Therefore, it makes sense that there would be a significant challenge with the illness in countries like Haiti, which the article briefly references. I also thought it was interesting that the illness was significant enough for the U.S. to issue a travel alert to Cuba due to cholera. This article was definitely a bit of an eye-opener!
DeleteSarah, I thought this was a very interesting article since it made me see connections between the readings regarding quality of human life and how the quality of resources can affect quality of life. Who would ever think cholera would be a threat, especially in the magnitude your article depicts. Living in the United States usually gives us a security blanket to trust the water from municipal water suppliers so that its consumption does not typically flood doctor’s offices. However, this is not the case for developing countries as your article demonstrates. This is another terrible example of when a government will not or cannot afford to take care of its people. I once taught water quality trainings and one fundamental principle I taught my students was if you want to see the quality of life a group of people have, look at the availability of clean water to them.
DeleteThis week in class we talked about how people like to wear blinders to other countries problems. I can admit that I tend to do this and without being in this class I would continue to wear my blinders. Not because I don’t care about others and their struggles but because I do not know what to do. This article states that I am not the only one wearing blinders. The article accuses the President of the United States and Israel’s other ally’s of ignoring the Syria genocide and the dangers that Israel is facing.
ReplyDeleteThe President stated Syria use of chemical weapons has crossed the line and the U.S. would be compelled to attack, but then he changed his mind. By stating the U.S. would have to wait for congress approval. This change of heart came after Britain stated they would not participate in the Syria attack.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Netanyahu) has not used accusatory language towards the United States for not helping with the current genocide. His statements describe a feeling of being alone. His statements are reassuring and he is careful to not offend any ally. He states that Israel is strong and their enemies should fear them. His language is meant to soothe anxious citizens, by sounding powerful and not afraid but his optimistic, non judging comments are not shared by others.
Others are angered by America’s idea to wait for congress permission to act. House Minister Uri Ariel (Ariel) compared the U.S. ignoring Syria to in-action during the Holocaust. Ariel stated the U.S. could have least helped intervene in the chemical action. Ariel stated that genocide should never be ignored. Ariel is not the only one that feels angry and disappointed in the lack of ally back up. As there is much media in Israel describing feeling of disappointment and anger. Yoaz Hendel, a former adviser to Netanyahu, feels that Israel’s ally’s have wasted time and gave Syria more time to hide weapons, create more weapons, and the killing will continue. Netanyahu feels that Ariel should not speak so harshly against an ally.
http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/israeli-leader-ready-scenario-20131404
09/01/2013
Jalena Robertson 10:30 pm
Fukushima radiation levels 18 times higher than previously thought.
ReplyDeleteKasey Gray
9/2/2013
My article comes from the town called Fukushima in Japan, this article is about radiation leakage in their water system, which cases environmental problems in all surrounding areas. This is very interesting because the article suggest that although this was separate from the 2011 tsunami, that they believe these leaks may have started soon after the tsunami hit. If that is the case, then this radiation leak has been going on for over two years. While reading this I fear the lives of these workers, and people who are in the surrounding areas, the article states that the leakage has also seeped into the sea as well, and fishermen could not make their annual catch during the month of August due to the radiation leakage. I can’t help but to compare this to the United States, I think if it were here this would be considered a huge disaster and a big warning for all surrounding places. But in Japan in this instance the article states that “initially there were only two workers who were sent to check 1000 storage tanks on the site. Neither of the workers carried dosimeters to measure their exposure to radiation, and some inspections had not been properly recorded”. While reading that in the article the only thing I could think of for only having two workers to check these 1000 tanks, is that they have limited sources of money to pay for speedy inspection. I know if I lived there, I would be worried about the safety of my household, and those two brave souls who are checking these without any monitors of the radiation, which is highly dangerous and detrimental to their health, but it also poses a huge risk for all persons in the households as well. Japan’s nuclear workers are allowed 50 millisieverts annually, but in this case the records indicated one of the storage tanks was submitting 70 millisieverts per hour! This is a huge difference compared to what the workers are only supposed to be exposed to on a yearly basis, and just to think of what this is doing to their environment, and the people in it.
http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2013/sep/01/fukushima-radiation-levels-higher-japan
I forgot to talk about how this related to class. This article would go along with our global problems book, especially the economic development. In this article we are potentially looking at economic resources and experts to be able to find a solution to the leakage before it reaches any other places in Japan.
DeleteI think the reason why Japan dealt with this very dangerous problem like that might relate with part of their culture. Japanese think "honor" and "shame" very seriously.As Kasey said that if American were experienced same problem, their responses would be different. In Japanese perspective, it would have been better to hide if the event was shameful things and at the same time, they could not have thought that event would cause like that serious problem all over the world initially. That's why they reported late and ask help late from other countries that had techniques to fix it. But real serious problem is that actually nobody knows how seriously the leaking problem affect all the foods we eat daily basis and water we drink every day.Is there any international regulations or laws that can prevent from nuclear leaking problem in the future? What specifically supposed to be done to prevent this?
Delete8/31/2013 – Civil War/Conflicts
ReplyDeleteShawn Lanham
I could not believe when this story appeared on my homepage news feed this morning. I was getting ready to research articles for the conflict in Syria, since my topic for World Problems is Civil War, when I see this headline from ABC News. I have to admit I knew trouble is ‘brewing’ in this area of the world, but I was confused about why, who, and the ramifications of the possible intervention by the United States. This article gives a quick synopsis of history, political power, reasons for unrest and possible outcomes regarding interventions of the super powers.
The civil war is a direct result of Syrians becoming unhappy with the Baathist party political regime and the rebels demanding democratic reform, which culminated into the government torturing and killing many of these protesters. The recent use of chemical warfare by the government has drawn the ire of many nations and the consideration to become involved in aiding the rebels in their attempt to overthrow the government.
Since Russia and Syria are allies, it becomes increasingly more complicated if the United States intends to intervene. Russia has indicated that the U.S. should not become involved and that chemical weapon use was a hoax. Intervention would create instability in the Middle East, Russia, the United States, Israel and the rest of the world. It is speculated that the U.S. intervention would draw attacks on Israel from Syria and other Middle Eastern nations, which would then be vehemently defended by its’ strongest ally, America.
President Obama has asked Congress for approval to strike Syria. In the coming days we will learn the Congressional and Presidential decisions that could affect numerous countries and countless civilians. This web of global interaction reminded me of the exercise our class engaged in outside last week. Numerous things will pull (like the yarn) on other countries, resources etc. and the ‘domino effect’ will be unknown. It is hard to predict the eventual outcome when considering this conflict, whether it is minimized/ends or results in World War III, it is obvious that many more lives will be lost before any resolution.
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/syrian-civil-war/story?id=20112311
This article was very interesting in such a way that it not only describes the political unrest in Syria, but why the civil war started in the first place, and the possible results of outside countries getting involved. There have been many issues that have come from this area already, one such issue has been the many people that have had to relocate, refugees, and many of them being children. The global impact is phenomenal to me, such as where are these children and families going to go and what kind of services are going to be available to them? There is the threat of another world war looming as well. The article has made me appreciate living in a country where we can protest our dislikes, like those who did on wall street, and don't have to worry about being killed or maimed. I too see the web exercise from class of how one tug on the string on the right side affects those interconnected in the web. This article was also able to answer my own personal questions of what and why this was going on. Good job on finding this article.
DeleteVietnams Lost Children in Labyrinth in slave labor
ReplyDeleteDebra Smith- 9/2/2013
As I was searching for an article relating to my topic human trafficking, I was not prepared for what I was getting ready to find: article after article of small children and women all around the world being bought, sold and traded for little to no wages and living horrific lifestyles. This specific article struck my heart because these poor families were actually being convinced and happy to send their children off to work in factories as slaves, being told that they were going to vocational training, and getting good jobs. According to the article, Hieu, an 18 year old, escapee that had been held captive for 2 years, stated “we started work at 6 am and finished work at midnight.” He then went on to say that if they made mistakes they were beaten with a stick. The children, with the youngest being 11, were only allowed 11 minutes all day to use the restroom and that included washing, and using it something that we take for granted on a daily basis, we are free to get up as early as we want and use the restroom for as long as we need to here, and we never even let it cross our minds that this is something to be thankful for. According to the article, 7,000 people have been trafficked internationally and domestically in Vietnam since 2005. This is an unreal number of people, its more than the population of the city that I live in. The article goes on to talk about the legal confusion of the laws and regulations. International trafficking is something that has been recognized for a much longer time, but domestic trafficking laws have just been in effect since last January. Even though there are laws in place, there are no regulations because “it takes time and training.” Most laborers even if they are caught are not convicted as criminals but as administrative sanctions. The factory where Hieu was at was only charged a $500 fee, and closed down. $500 for housing, kidnapping, enslaving children and teenagers in harsh conditions is NOTHING. These criminals, in my opinion, need to be punished more accurately for the pain and suffering they have brought. Some are not even charged because they are “paying” the children, the wages sometimes don’t even add up to $50-$100 a year, according to the article.
In class, we discussed how we as Americans wear blinders and “ear muffs” when it comes to other countries problems, because it is not affecting us or our everyday lives but what if it was. Coming from a poor, rural area (not as poor as the ones in the article) if a company, or college had come to me at 17 offering me a full scholarship, and training programs I cannot say that I wouldn’t have looked into it, and just as easily been taken away from my family to better myself. My mom used to tell me that she always wanted better for me than she had, and a good education was the focus of that. I feel as though all parents feel this way especially in such poor places, these “people” are preying on this idea just to get cheap labor and I personally find that sickening, and after reading these articles I will definitely be checking the tags on my next purchase.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-23631923
Debra - this was a truly fascinating and very distrubing article. I was aware that human trafficking is a large global problem, but the numbers represented in this article are staggering. It states that roughly 80% of those trafficking in Vietnam are women and children. And what is even more sickening is that some of these women and children are forced into prostitution or a similar type of servitude. I agree with you that enough is not being done to punish the individuals responsible for these actions. If punishment was more consistent and fit the crime then more people would do it. I do not know if you have read the Not For Sale book, but it provides a similar picture and reasons why punishment is not carried out very effectively. According to the book, in many international locations, law enforcement and government are involved in this business and have a stake in ensuring that traffickers are able to continue in this vial trade. I really enjoyed that article. Thanks for sharing
DeleteWow is all that I can say after reading your article. While completing a project for my undergrad degree I researched child labor in Africa. By reading this article I can tell that the problem goes much farther than cocoa beans. One of the most disturbing things that I read in the article was that during one factory raid they found fourteen people eating, sleeping, and working in a small room with machines and that those people were only allowed to leave the room for eight minutes a day. These are inhumane conditions. I also thought that it was interesting to read that they sent them away from their village to work so that they couldn't just walk out of the door and go home. They came to the factory to work with no knowledge on how they got there and how they could get home at all. I agree with you that I will definitely look a little closer at tags next time I make a purchase!
DeleteCrime: Debate over gang rape sentencing in India
ReplyDeleteSara Gilpin
In the article I found this week I read about an ongoing debate occurring in India. Last December there was a teenager found guilty for gang rape on a bus. I realize the incident occurred several months ago, but the article I read was only written yesterday so it seems as though police officials are still trying to get to the bottom of this case. The debate is over whether or not the punishment given to the teenager was fair. Because the boy was a juvenile he was sentenced to three years in a reform facility, and convicted for both rape and murder. Many Indian citizens feel as though the boy should be tried as an adult and given the death penalty because of the severity of the crime. Others feel that he should be given a second chance, an opportunity to turn his life around and not make the same mistakes again.
This is such a difficult situation, and I am sure I would feel differently if it affected me personally. Because the boy was 17, I feel as though he should be tried as a 17 year old. There is a reason those laws are in place and I think that if they let this boy be tried as an adult when would it ever stop? Would they try a 10 year old as an adult? I realize the nature and severity of the crime, and in this case it does make it more difficult to reach a decision. However, I feel like there are laws in place for a reason and they should be followed. In my personal opinion, I do not think giving him the death sentence would solve anything. Yes, I believe he should be punished, but punished in a way in which he will reap the affects and also be given an opportunity to change his life. I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross for EVERYONE including murderers, rapists, thieves, etc., and I believe that He loves them just like He loves me. I would hate to think that I was going to be given the death sentence every time I messed up and sinned.
This is just my personal opinion. I know everyone views situations like this differently. I also realize that Christianity is not the popular religion in India so my reasoning behind my opinion probably would not amount to much. That is just my heart and how I feel. Yes, the boy committed a crime and it was horrible. He should be punished! I just don’t think that changing the law and trying him as an adult in order to give him the death sentence in the answer.
Here is the link to the article I found:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-23925553
Anti-Muslim Monk Stokes Burmese Religious Tensions
ReplyDeleteThis article covers a religious war in Myanmar (formerly Burma) between Buddhists and Muslims. The article initially speaks about how 200 people, mostly Muslims, have been killed while many others have been displaced from their homes over the course of a year in Myanmar. It is speculated that Buddhists who are part of a national organization called 969 are responsible for the Muslim killings.
969 is led by Buddhist monk, Shin Wirathu. Wirathu claims that there is a Muslim "master plan" to turn Myanmar, which is 90% Buddhist and 5% Muslim, into an Islamic state. He says that the Muslims are "invaders" and that for the last fifty years the Buddhists have been shopping in Muslim stores making the Muslims rich and in turn the Muslims have been marrying Buddhist women. Wirathu also blames the Muslims for the killing of many Buddhists including women and children.
While there is significant support for the 969 group, there is also much opposition, even from within the Buddhist community. Kaylar Sa, a monk who is currently in jail for participation in the Safron revolution in 2007, stated that he believes the 969 movement is "completely unnecessary". He also stated that he fears that the movement could stand in the way for democratic reform.
Another monk, Smar Nyi Nyi also expressed concern about the focus on the movement and the Buddhist/Muslim conflict. He stated that there is so much attention being put on the conflict that other significant issues are not getting the attention they deserve. He also said something that left a great impression on me. He said "We don't use drones - we haven't killed [Osama] Bin Laden or Saddam Hussein or the Taliban. We are just preaching and posting on the internet and Facebook for the safety and security of our nation. If we are all protecting our own nation who's the bad guy - Wirathu or Barack Obama?"
I thought about this statement for quite some time trying to figure out what he meant. Finally, what I came up with is that he is simply saying they are the same as we are. Buddhists are known for being peacekeepers and for a disbelief in killing, which is partly why there is a lot of focus on this conflict. However, America is predominantly Christian and Christians are supposed to be peacekeepers and abstain from killing, yet we have justified killing Bin Laden and Hussein for the sake of protecting our country, so why should the Buddhists in Myanmar be looked at any differently?
Forgot my link...
Deletehttp://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-23846632
Amanda, as you pointed out, the article states that only 5% of Mynamar is Muslim, so it strikes me as odd that some of the Buddhists claim that they fear their country is being taken over by them. They say that the Muslim merchants are taking over because of their acquired wealth which kind of reminds me of the Nazi propaganda involving Jews in WWII.
DeleteThe remark about Obama was kind of like a "mind your own business" or "point the finger back at yourself" statement. While he has a point, it is just a diversion tactic. I think many foreign leaders and citizens of other states think we are full of hypocrisy and even as Americans, sometimes our own actions are very hard to defend while pronouncing judgement on other countries.
Amanda, I do understand the fear of the Buddhists,because, and I know it sounds stereotyped, but the Muslim population increases in much larger proportions as others (I don't have websites right now), and considering this fact, the 5 % could become 20 or 30 in a couple of years.This does not excuse the attacks, and especially the dots on the stores reminds me of the Jewish yellow stars, I see Marshall thought of it too. I do believe that these religious fires are going to be inflamed more and more as each ethnic group is searching more and more for identity and its approval.
Delete29 August 2013 Analysis: As Laos prospers, child malnutrition persists
ReplyDeleteBrian Tucker
As I was researching the topic of Poverty throughout the world, I began thinking about countries that are economically growing and the challenges they face to overcome poverty. I found this article on Laos and the issues the country is facing to fight malnutrition in impoverished areas. The article discusses the economic growth of Laos that is suspected to propel the country to middle income status by 2020. The steady economic growth over 10 years has decreased the poverty rate from 44% to 27.6% within the country. For the first time, Laos has become a full member of the World Trade Organization in February of 2013. Given the financial growth of Laos, it is still the second highest rate of malnutrition in East Asia and the Pacific. According to the article, 44% of children under 5 years of age suffer from malnutrition. Many factors are involved to exacerbate the malnutrition rates. These factors include breastfeeding practices; women’s workloads that have them out in the fields instead in the home caring for newborns; natural hazards such as pests and flooding that attack food sources; villagers that live in rural areas and have limited resources; and the lack of educational awareness to promote healthier lifestyle practices. Laos is currently working with other agencies, such as UNICEF, UN, and CARE Laos to implement programs to educate and promote a better way of life for its citizens. These programs consist of better educational programs to citizens, the importance of a nutritional diet, breastfeeding practices that are healthier to newborns, and the reduction of women’s workloads. The article goes on to explain the government of Laos is trying to make changes in both behavioral and developmental areas of citizens to promote a better way of life. As I was reading the article, I recalled from class discussion about rights as a citizen to society and rights as a global citizen. The citizens of Laos have had this way of life for many generations and may be reluctant to change from outside influences; even if it is their own government suggesting the changes. A question I derived from reading this article is how willing are the citizens going to be to accepting change to their cultural practices?
http://www.irinnews.org/report/98659/as-laos-prospers-children-still-hungry
Brian, that was a very interesting article. It is heartbreaking to think about the way the way these people are used to living. Malnutrition is a norm for them. It seems as though the government is making an attempt to better the lives of its citizens. You bring up a very good point though. How willing are the citizens going to be to accept this change? Is it really feasible to go into a culture and tell the people they are going to have to change their way of living? If this is the only way of life they know, i would guess that the people of this country would be very hesitant to making such a drastic change.
DeleteBrian, this was a very sad but interesting article. I feel so bad for the infants who are born into these situations, they are not getting enough nutritious milk that is needed to keep their immune system healthy. When the article said these families live on 1.25 per day (which was in 1992) I could not imagine only making that per day to feed my family. Another thing that struck home is these families only eat meat 3 times per month, sometimes we take lots of things for granted that are in front of us everyday, and do not think of others. These people just don't have the means to get what they need in everyday life. It also broke my heart to read that 5,000 babies die each year from nutrition related problems. My two boys are ages 3 & 4, and I couldn't imagine the pain these mothers felt watching their babies health deteriorate in front of them, and knowing they had no money to get food for nutrition for them. This is so heart breaking, it makes you appreciate what you have and look at things in a different light.
DeleteAll 25,000 candidates fail Liberian university entrance exam (EDUCATION)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/aug/27/all-candidates-fail-liberia-university-test
Liberia recently raised its qualifications for getting accepted into the University of Liberia. They raised them so high, that not a single student passed their standardized test. After reading this article, I had my doubts about how it would be possible for every single student who took the entrance exam, to fail. Twenty five thousand students is a large group to be denied an education. As David-Tarpeh said, some of these students went to good schools and from the sound of it, would have been prepared. I am highly suspicious as to how they were scored and what the basis was for not admitting a single person. If this were in America, I feel that there would be a huge outcry in response to something of this nature. If Harvard did not admit a single freshman this year, I can only imagine how many news networks that story would dominate.
Furthermore, in regards to why they were all denied, I think that lacking the English language should not be the number one determining factor. This is happening in Africa, therefore, why must all students grasp English so proficiently. I feel that the entire article relates to basic human rights that we have discussed in class. Here is a large amount of students who are in high school, who are trying to further their education and go on to college, and none were able to meet the requirements. Quite frankly, there are a lot of rights being violated. The article mentioned that the schools have been known to be corrupt. Some students pay for grades while others, no matter how hard they studied, will never get in. All students should have the same equal opportunities to education. This also relates to the “what is fair” concept that we discussed. How fair is it that student A is smart and worked so hard, yet student B has a little more money and is able to buy their way in. It goes on to teach these students that corruption is how you get somewhere in life.
Finally, I was pleased to see that the university was required to admit 1800 students. However, that left me to ponder what will happen to the other 23,200 students. What kind of opportunities will they have living in such an impoverished country? For many, education is the only means to escape a life of poverty and yet, so many are unable to do so.
http://www.ilo.org/global/about-the-ilo/newsroom/news/WCMS_220375/lang--en/index.htm
ReplyDeleteThis article directly relates to our reading of both Surnu and Midgley texts. Despite large economic growth in Asia-Pacific, there are a tremendous amount of people still living below the poverty line. Over the past 2 decades, strong economic growth has pushed millions of people into middle class jobs but the gap between rich and poor continues to increase. As our readings portrayed, foreign, more developed countries may bring in more jobs to Asia-Pacific, yet fail to bring in better education. Even if some citizens reap the benefits of having these brought in factory jobs, those left without work fall even lower on the poverty chain then before. The working poor do not have higher education and therefore can not climb the ladder any higher. I instantly feel aggressive due to the lack of thought developed countries have when it comes to other countries. They and their business may benefit by moving industries over seas, but they fail to bring in processes that will truly benefit the nations as a whole. If the US put just as much effort into saving a buck and they do higher education for the countries they are basically using, Asia-Pacific would see a tremendous decrease in poverty. Even though the focus of the article was not about industry, the fact that labor for the middle class holds a whole different definition then to poor, uneducated farmers, can aggravate the soul. The article states, "Part of the solution is to increase infrastructure investment to facilitate shifts from agriculture to higher value-added industry and services" shows just how oblivious we are when we make quick solutions to huge issues. There is little education available, so how would moving to industry and services be possible for these individuals? I instantly thought of imperialism when I read this article. When will this age old 'tradition' end?
Marshall Allen
ReplyDelete9/03/13
Topic: Natural Disaters
"India must stop viewing disasters as acts of God - report"
I found an interesting article this week that examines the “India Disasters Report.” According to the article, the report was written by “academics, aid workers, scientists and analysts.” The article looks at how the aggressive industrial development of India is not taking precautionary measures in building a sound infrastructure. Most importantly, it argues that disasters are not simply just always an “act of God” but can also be caused, or at least perpetuated by the hand of man.
The article sites the report as stating that the tremendous demand for growth ignores putting safe building practices in already disaster prone areas. The article also states that there has been a very significant lack of warning systems in place as well as sheltering structures and aid when disasters happen. The most important lesson of the article is that the demand for resources has put the safety and welfare of the Indian people at risk. The article is a plea for putting human life above monetary gains while acknowledging that expansive industrialized growth throughout the country is going to continue.
One of the most interesting facts I got out of the article was actually how disaster ripe India is and has been historically. The article states that “around 76 percent of India’s coastline is prone to cyclones and tsunamis, while 59 percent of the country is vulnerable to earthquakes, 10 percent to floods and river erosion and 68 percent to droughts.” These figures are made even more shocking when you consider that India has over one billion inhabitants. When you add in a huge desire for growth by both internal and external influences, India must also have a strong desire for preparedness of such a radical transformation in order to limit environmental and human causalities.
http://in.reuters.com/article/2013/08/29/india-natural-disaster-idINDEE97S0C420130829
This definitely is an interesting article to say the least. You would think with being in an area such as India that has such a heavy population and is prone to disaster, that the country would have a comprehensive disaster prep and management program in place. Labeling any disaster as an act of God will not allow them to have the preparation that they need, but the country needs to take care of their citizens.
Delete"In India, Hundreds March on Parliament to Demand End to Child Labor"
ReplyDeleteLink to article: http://world.time.com/2013/08/29/in-india-hundreds-march-on-parliament-to-demand-end-to-child-labor/print/
Child labor is an apparent world problem, especially in India. I found a very recent article in Time that demonstrates the current political state of India’s citizens and government officials regarding child labor. Recently, the government considered legislation which prohibits child labor under the age of fourteen years old combined with more stringent penalties for those groups who employ children for labor. This article explained that there are approximately twelve million children susceptible to child labor in India. Vulnerable children included in that number work in stone quarries, carpet factories, and rice mills. These children have been sold into slavery by a very old mechanism of human labor. They are sold into bonded slavery into the sex trade or domestic service industry. The petition that was presented to New Delhi legislators explained these vulnerable children have school withheld from them, work as much as 18 hours daily, experience crippling injuries, and develop chronic respiratory illness and pain. Child advocates are asking the government to legally terminate hazardous work for all people under 18 and any child under 14 years old. For younger people, the advocates are using the Right to Education Act (2009) which ensures each child’s right to education in support of their effort.
This article connects with several readings assigned in this course. Nearly all the articles of the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” of human life may be related to this article. From the perspective of the child, the advocates identify the child’s need for school, safety, security, humane treatment, and fairness for quality of life. There is also a recommendation for enforcement of prosecution for those individuals/ businesses who employ children illegally. Child advocates in India argue for more stringent enforcement of the anti-child labor law and required child education. Advocates request the government to actually prosecute and assign mandated penalties to offenders. The effect of this demonstrates a positive change to improve the rights of vulnerable children. The article furthermore relates to issues of human justice discussed in Garcia and Soest (2006). These authors explain that social justice includes fulfillment of human rights characteristic for a life of dignity and respect. Children’s rights fall under this blanket as well.
Michelle,
DeleteI loved your post about this issue. Human Trafficking has always been something close to my heart, because of my passion for wanting to keep all the children in the world in a bubble! I enjoyed reading about the advocates and the different policies that the advocates are putting into play. I think that is what the world as a whole needs is more advocates to stand up and fight for whatever they believe in. Thanks for sharing.
Michaela Vaillant, Terrorism, 2 September 2013, 10.44 pm
ReplyDeleteTEST
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-23126814
ReplyDelete(AGING)
Where are the missing 90-year-olds?
In this article by Ruth Alexander; she points out the 2010 Census in the United Kingdom estimated a higher percentage of people living in their 90’s. When the census was published in 2011 it gave an alarming surprise that thousands of people were missing. Alexander states the data revealed 30,000 people unaccounted. The question was asked, where were these people?
The article states the life expectancy age has increased in developed countries over the last 200 hundred years by 2.5 years each decade. This increase has been due to improvements of children and maternal mortality, low mortality rates among children and adults, and smoking has dropped. Alexander points out the “average global life expectancy has increased by 6 years from birth”. Now in the UK the life expectancy of a man aged 65 has increased by 14 years since the early 1980s and stands currently plus 21 years.
So where are these 90 year old people? Alexander researched and found out that these individuals have died. When statisticians estimated the projected ages of living persons in the UK; they had simply over estimated. Individuals living in the UK did not live as long as they predicted. The article goes on to talk about how life expectancy has increased in other areas of the world such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
This article ties in with our readings about global inequalities. In our book, Global problems, on page 18 in table 1.1 it shows life expectancy at birth from high to low income countries. Our readings suggest even with technology, medical and economic improvements in parts of the world, poor countries continue to fall behind. There has been a slight increase in countries like India and China due to improvement of life conditions. However, some parts of Africa the life expectancy has decreased. This decrease is caused by the epidemic of HIV/AIDS.
Leslie Carver 9/3/13 6:35pm
DeleteI found your article find very interesting. I found it particularly intriguing that the individuals that were recorded as 90-year-old people had died and that statisticians had over estimated. I found the part about the life expectancy decreasing in many countries eye opening of how far we really have come as a world. I had just written my blog on South Africa and how HIV/Aids has affected that country so I found it again heart wrenching that your article had stated that, “over the past 20 years the life expectancy for South Africa had decreased by five years, almost entirely to the HIV epidemic.” We read in Sernau that globalization involves economic, political, and cultural interconnectedness. The division of the world really does have to deal with all of those especially dealing with the geographically where someone lives and what resources are available to them. The chart shown in the article put things in perspective for me and made me really start to see how much of a blessing it has been to live here in the United States. How the average life expectancy for some countries are under 60-this being the result of the social conditions those countries face (life expectancy, adult literacy, etc.). It makes you begin to think about close family members and friends and how old they are, and how grateful I truly am that they are still around constantly passing on their knowledge and values to me.
S. Michelle Wright
ReplyDeleteSWK 615-Section 1
Topic: Asylum
Swiss segregation of asylum seekers: 'we get less respect than an animal'
An article I found which was published by “The Guardian” on August 26, 2013 indicated that cities in Switzerland are enforcing restrictions on residents in state operated facilities established for asylum seekers. The newest facility is located in Bremgarten where citizens of this town have placed skull/crossbones on signs stating, “No entry, Danger of death” on their property. Citizens were interviewed, "People here don't want their children to come into contact with asylum seekers because they believe the crime rate is very high," said Werner Birrer, a member of the anti-immigrant Swiss People's party (SVP) and resident of Alpnach. An estimated 48,000 people have sought asylum in Switzerland. Many residents of Switzerland see the asylum seekers as the cause of many social issues, such as, crime. The city of Bremgarten restricted asylum seekers from schools, sports facilities and public swimming pools. Raymond Tellebach, Mayor of Bremgarten stated that the restrictions are in place as a security measure to eliminate conflict among the citizens and asylum seekers. Among the asylum seekers is Azizi Abed which sought asylum 5 years ago from Iran. Mr. Abed feels that the restrictions are a violation of human rights. Mr. Abed reports feeling boredom, isolation, and disenfranchised due to the restrictions. Mr. Abed states that he is not allowed to work, no allowed to play a sport or go outside. Mr. Abed stated that he shares his bedroom with 4 others and his kitchen with 28 other people. Mr. Abed stated that they are all suffering the mental effects of this isolation. After reading this article it became apparent to me that the asylum seekers in Switzerland are be segregated from the general public or citizens of Switzerland. Communities in Switzerland that obviously do not want the facilities in their areas are establishing restrictions/policies within their communities to isolate the immigrants. According to Garcia and Soest, racism is a form of oppression. Social workers need to not only respond to the symptoms of oppression, but identify and respond to the source of the oppression. In my opinion, Switzerland is responding to the citizen’s fears and ignorance in regards to the asylum seekers. Switzerland is mandating harsh restrictions for the asylum seekers creating many mental health issues, such as, depression and isolation. Citizens of Switzerland are fearful that the crime rate in their communities will increase due to the influx of immigrants. I feel that social workers could assist asylum seekers by advocating for them within the communities and creating recreation, employment and educational opportunities for them.
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/aug/26/swiss-segregation-asylum-seekers
What a mess! This article is displaying globalization in form of scrutiny of a nation’s increasing struggle to embrace their less fortunate world-neighbors and keep at the same time their residents sound, exposing discrepancies and poor or selective implementation of legislature between upper and lower level government and letting the rural environment know that the eye of the world is watching. The drama of humanity’s face (smiling as to accepting asylum-seekers and crying as to their treatment) is developing in the rural and once “hidden” environment and showing disruption in the distributive, cumulative and legal justice flow.
DeleteI am particularly appalled that the mayor is “bemused” at the international outcry and offers the excuse of “misunderstanding” for the discriminating actions. It is important to note that each country enters voluntarily into a collaborative contract with the UNHCR, and receives then a capacity-proportionate percentage assigned. The UNHCR, as part of their migration management context, recognizes that cooperating countries have to deal with “mixed migration flows”, but that local and international NGO within the EU have “developed more sustainable and independent structures than NGOs in other States and are increasingly able to contribute directly to the development of policies on asylum and migration.” http://www.unhcr.org/4688b4af2.html. The mayor could have participated in this approach to communicate his community’s concerns and seek for a mutually beneficial solution instead of allowing conflict to escalate, being as elected official (hopefully) cognizant of his community’s undercurrents (consider anti-asylum and anti-segregation group formation). It appears also that intra- government communication is poorly managed and the government’s desire to accommodate asylum seekers does not offer a culturally sensitive plan in regard of how “they want to take the communities on this path”. Although I don’t disregard the residents’ fears, they ignore or lack education on why asylum-seekers need the refuge of another country in first place. Empathy to the fact that instead of a safe place, they are met with hostile behavior, isolation and discrimination is replaced by fear of the unknown. I wouldn’t be surprised then if the asylees would also prefer the return to their country of origin as mentioned in another article. Citizens here choose to keep the blinders on at the expense of violating human rights, lacking awareness of the legal components, the nation’s goals and responsibilities and their own responsibility as “global citizens”, to which they collectively agreed when Switzerland entered into the collaborative contract. A lot of the stereotyping, fear-mongering and discrimination could be decreased with community-wide sensitive approaches, education on ethnic groups, forums and fellowship meetings to afford acculturation for the asylees and increased understanding in the community, intertwining in a healthy way the dynamics of a global world. I would hope that the anti-segregation group could engage in some form of advocacy and awareness rising, launching a process that could generate much good and possibly clear some of the clogged paths.Thanks for choosing it.
Latin America and Caribbean Overview
ReplyDeleteIn search of an article this week I found a recent report on the World Bank strategy for reducing poverty and enhancing shared wealth. The bank addressed five core areas: reducing poverty, boosting growth /productivity, more efficient states, green growth/ global involvement and avoiding natural hazards/manmade disasters. Reducing poverty is on the banks priority list because more than 82 million people are living on less than $2.50 a day, helping women receive higher pay, increasing growth and working conditions, adequate public services and providing green services are also a priority for the World Bank. The article also indicated that Latin America and the Caribbean will showed an economical growth of 3.3% - 3.5% in 2013 – 2014 and Panama, Chile and Peru having a growth rate being above average. Brazil and Mexico being the regions powerhouses, will progress in 2013 with 3.2% from a measly 0.9% in 2012, Central America and the Caribbean, not including El Salvador are estimated to grow above 3.5%, Panama is estimating 8%, Chili and Peru are expecting 5 to 6 % rates. Due to the regions improvements 73 million people are out of poverty and 50 million are in the middle class. The World Bank offered financial services beyond traditional loans. They tailored services to each country’s needs. The World Bank, in 2012 committed $11.8 billion to the region’s economies, $7 billion from IBRD and IDA, $4.9 billion from IFC (the Bank Group’s own private sector). The Bank’s help in the continuing role of the Haiti’s recovery to helping Brazil and Mexico (advanced economies) “green up.” Some of the main results include: Haiti-received over 1.5 million for health/sanitation, education and prevention training and 73 communities was provided risk maps and emergency contingency plans. El Salvador- seen tax collection increase by 2 percent. Nicaragua- the learning conditions in primary schools improved after receiving 1 million new textbooks. Approximately 235,000 people in metropolitan Montevideo, Uruguay received access to potable water. 23 Argentine provinces benefited from investments in infrastructure. Brazil- more than 600,000 passengers on a daily basis are using the greener Sao Paulo metro line. Mexico launched a framework to regulate green growth and fund the sustainable use of energy.
http://www.worldbank.org/en/region/lac/overview
This article was interesting. As we continue to learn about economies of the "South" countries. This article points out that some are having solid economical growth. While other countries still continue to struggle. The article pointed out because of labor development this growth has occured. This is good for those countries, however, is this due to countries like the United States outsourcing? Also could the growth include tourists coming in and out of these countries. I hear many Americans and people world-wide talking about going to these beautiful warm countries for vacations. One thing the article ended up saying is that even though they are having solid economic growth the death rates are rising. This is the same thing that Dr. Hansford referred to that happened in India. Countries recieve a increase in their economies but still haven't addressed their social problems.
DeleteHIV/AIDS: South Africa grapples with dilemma of pregnant students
ReplyDeleteLeslie Carver 9/3/13 5pm
When I started this assignment I must say I was very excited to learn more about a topic that seems to be taking our world by the numbers each year. But in all my excitement of learning more, it turned into my heart aching at the pictures and articles I came across. In search for an article I found this recent report about not only women but more so the young women of South Africa under the age of 18. Many of you are probably thinking the same thought I had in regards of the term woman usually meaning over the age of 18. As I read the article it discussed how the Constitutional Court was ruling in South Africa that the schools could not expel students for becoming pregnant. But stating that the country is still finding it difficult to cope with the issue of pregnancy which affects over 180,000 girls yearly.
The article continues to tell brief stories of young ladies overwhelmed in the ever so usually painful duty of a mother, the birthing process. Of course not something that any women can state they loved the pains of, but rather it was worth it in the end. Responses for many of these young ladies in the hospital were more over the fact that they aren’t sure where the father is/was, or if the fathers family knew. Thoughts and feelings of disgrace to their parents for getting pregnant and finding themselves in the situation they are in. These girls like many in South Africa, were only fourteen and sixteen. All of this seems like issues that many of us have been a part of, or have witnessed, or have heard here in the United States. But risks in the United States pregnancy and resources available to most, weighs higher than that available or more so accepted in South Africa. The article states that 36% of maternal deaths every year are teenage mothers, and doctors state that there is a risk in giving birth at a young age because their pelvises are not yet developed.
Many young girls walk the halls of their schools trying to find any way they can to hide that they are pregnant, but many are forced to leave the schools in order to take care of their children, and in some cases are forced due to the schools lack in being able to support expectant mothers. “Officials are worried that unprotected sex among teenagers could hamper the fight against HIV/Aids.”
The article stated that about three million people in KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) are HIV positive, this country is has the highest number of people living with Aids virus in the world. Pause for a moment and process the previous statement. I found myself shaking my head, not in disbelief but more so with my heart reacting to my mind- what can I do, yet what can we do to change this disease that is increasing thousands of miles away, or even in our nation, in our community?
Just like we discussed and demonstrated in class last week, we are all connected in some way. We have to have mindsets that are more aware of the pieces that are putting all of these life issues, life stories, life choices together. We are all a part of the same world, yet why do I feel like, little ole me in another “blessed” country is at a loss for words.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-23346288
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-23777176.
DeleteWhile completing my research for an article that covered a food/water issue I came across an article titled “Yemen facing water shortage crisis.” Yemen is located in Southwestern Asia. While watching the news clip that was linked with the article I was in shock. The shock stemmed from the fact that while watching the video you could see puddles of water everywhere. Some areas even appeared to be flooded. According to the news story half of the population of Yemen has no access to clean water. The news story also reported that the drought in Yemen is so severe that it is estimated that the capital could run dry in ten years.
There are several reasons as to why Yemen is facing such a severe water crisis. Some of these reasons are that not enough is done to harness rain water and the government does nothing to regulate the water usage in the area. Instead of using the rain to water their crops, farmers are drilling for water. The farmers in the video reported that they are having to drill deeper than they ever have for the water, and that you can feel the water pressure being lowered as they are pumping the water. The article states that it is estimated that approximately 90% of the country’s water resources are used for the purposes of agriculture. Half of this water is used to cultivate a popular plant known as khat. Khat is a stimulant that is known to produce euphoric feeling when chewed or brewed in tea. Chewing khat is a popular tradition in Yemen.
One way that this information is tied to our readings for the week is through the Millennium Development Goals Report 2011. This report states that the limits for sustainable water resources have already been exceeded in Western Asia. The report also states that these limits make it impossible for everyone to receive their fair share of water. It’s sad to think that even if the government decided to step in and regulate the usage of water in Yemen, it is probably too late. Hopefully the people of Yemen will find a way to sustain water before clean water is completely gone.
Replying to Brandy.
DeleteIt was interesting to read and watch the video on the water shortage in Yemen. I think you made a wonderful point that was also backed in the video segment regarding government regulation. It is probably too late and even the expert interviewed concluded that not much could be don't since most agriculture was not regulated.
It was also very interesting and sad when they stated that 14000 children don't have clean water and die each year from malnutrition. I did some quick math and found that equated to 38 per day. If there were 38 children in Kentucky dying from thirst and malnutrition per day, people would be advocating for immediate change and getting results. It is a shame that typically the most vulnerable suffer and when it is not a superpower country it tends to go unnoticed.
Reply to Leslie:
DeleteLeslie I found your article very interesting and sad at the same time. It amazes me that with all of the medical miracles young girls would be dying during child birth due to c-sections, but like all things it takes money to have good medical care. I realize that agencies donate medical equipment and doctors go over and assist these countries, but it is hard to understand. The issue of being bullied and teased by students and teachers is something that happens everywhere, even in the USA. The difference is if someone is being treated unfair in the USA they have the right to take legal action against the school. I can see how these young girls could feel hopeless in such an enviroment without any support not even your family. The article mentioned that the father's do not take responsibility and is doesnt seem that they are made to take any responsibilty. One question I have is if the schools and communities have any planned parenting program, HIV/AIDS education for young ladies and young men?
Michaela Vaillant, Terrorism, 2 September 2013, 10.44 pm - In Afghanistan, resurgent Taliban takes toll; more than 100 die in attacks in past week
ReplyDeletehttp://www.washingtonpost.com/world/war-zones/in-afghanistan-resurgent-taliban-takes-toll-more-than-100-die-in-attacks-over-the-past-week/2013/08/31/651d3de4-126e-11e3-a2b3-5e107edf9897_story.html
This article refers to several Taliban-led insurgencies in Afghan provinces with deaths between foreign national & Afghan civilians alike, believed to be a reaction to failed peace talks & Egypt’s recent turmoils. Taliban’s mistrust of their government’s Western ties is shown in continued attacks of foreign targets despite troop withdrawals. American-backed peace talks initiations between Taliban leaders, Afghan & foreign officials failed & diplomatic encounters between moderate insurgent and government officials led nowhere as reportedly US officials tried to separate Taliban factions. Karzai’s efforts to enlist Pakistan’s help in re-negotiating with the Taliban failed despite offering concessions of Taliban prisoner releases. Leaving empty handed & after further insurgencies, Karzai accused Pakistan of backing Taliban aggression in order to destabilize Afghanistan. Yet independent analysts suggest a shrinking Pakistani influence on the Taliban, indicating a shift in initial pursuits of local freedom to expanded Muslim alliances worldwide as to Taliban’s capacity of global operations. Taliban’s wishes to pursue direct peace talks with the US clash with simultaneous attacks, indicating Egypt’s recent coup as evidence for US hypocrisy concerning the support of a democratic system & power-sharing in the Muslim world. - The reference to Taliban’s move from local operations to global extension ties in with Tim Friedman’s definitions of the 2nd (country) and 3rd (individual) era. Taliban was initiated by one individual: Bin Laden supported local mujahedeens against Soviet forces, expanded to intensive warfare training & eventually expanded his vision into Al Qaeda’s pursuit of Pan-Islamic worldwide rule & Sharia Law in lieu of secularism. Several reports suggest ideological splits between the Taliban factions, with the Afghan side pursuing their nation’s freedom from foreign influences and the Pakistani following more Al Qaeda’s goals. A “nationalistic” movement transcended geographic boundaries (see also Kashmir) and grew exponentially and globally. Globalization allowed for “activities that foster increased contact between people in different countries” (p. 21, Midgley), however these contacts did not benefit the very people they want to liberate. How does Afghanistan’s poverty level (36 %, CIA) fit into huge amounts of funds poured in technology and weaponry? - Playing devil’s advocate, Garcia’s form of justice based on social construct appears to justify Al Qaeda’s goals of freeing Arab countries from Western influence in “rectifying” the wrongs done to Muslims in past centuries, even if violating human rights. How then do we apply cultural competence and defend the basic human right to live to a culture which to a great part disregards human life if it serves the greater good? How can we apply cultural sensitivity engaging with many ethnic groups &nations while pursuing the defense of UN established human rights? Although I don’t condone violence in general, one thought though: if our family members would be hostages and the only way to freedom is violence ( SWAT), which life matters? I understand Garcia’s point that we need to graps the different lenses people see social justice from- tough job. Jesus though directed his disciples: preach in Samaria, then Jerusalem, then to the entire world. Emulating this journey could be done, with courses just like this one, stimulating our thoughts and challenging us to action.
http://podcast.ft.com/index.php?pid=1940
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mKKgvoxjZ4
There is a monster called debt that has affected China. According to the video “China’s Debt Addiction” by Financial Times, China has a large debt addiction. Debt is a growing hardship within the population of China. Several aspects have been affected, businesses have suffered, Land sales have suffered, and villages have to fetch their own water because of unfinished construction. Many people in China are financially struggling to get by on a daily basis. China has been increasing with debt since 2008. In 2008, the gross domestic product was 130% in 2013 the GDP was 200%. That is a dramatic jump in a short amount of time. The starting point of China’s financial problems began in 2008 and since then it has been significantly harder and harder to pay off debt. China is “deep in debt holes” as according to “China’s Debt Addiction”. In a podcast by Financial Times, Simon Rabinovitch, China Correspondent, stated several companies are unable to repay loans from the expected fact they are not financially stable. Due to the financial crisis in China, people have expressed concern of debt accumulating. It has been a battle that they have been fighting for the past five years now. In the video, it showed people striving to pay off what they already borrowed. On the streets of China, trash has started to pile up on the side of the roads; this is an example of how debt is such an impact on China. Allow many have lost jobs, businesses and have emotional stress, they have still found joy throughout. The video not only informed you with financial problems in China but it also showed that people can still enjoy life even in the most horrible circumstances.
Yolonda J Armstead
ReplyDeleteSep 3, 2013 7:34PM
Earth Overshoot Day & Addressing the overshoot
In 8 Months, Humanity Exhausts Earth's Budget for the Year.
These articles expound upon the way that we as humans have consumed the earth’s resources for the year in an eight month period of time. The article stated that we have been shortening the period of reserve by three days since 2001. Humanity uses nature’s resources to build cities, roads, to provide foods, create products and to absorb our carbon dioxide. In the 70’s we reached a threshold whereas we began to consume more than we were able to replenish. The article states that not all countries are demanding more resource than the ecosystem can provide.
Slowing population growth can play a role in addressing our overexploitation of limited resources. In order to slow down the demand and usage that the humans are requiring on earth’s resources, the second article that I listed that is tied to the Earth’s overshoot day suggests that overpopulation is addressed by families taking the initiative of planning their families, by strengthening women’s opportunities to study and work and also sex education along with the ability to manage their fertility.
As humans that are dealing with the earths over populations, in addition to trying to deal with it from the population concern, we also have to face the concern of nature conservation and understanding a need to limit consumption. It is in our best interest to tend to our animals and making sure that we are getting them spayed and neutered as needed due to they are consumers also. In summary, every country has resources that are being exhausted, or on the brink of being exhausted before the years end without any reserve resources being available. We have to be good stewards over these resources by either being concerned about the earth’s population, planning our families, nature’s conservation and limiting consumption.
http://www.footprintnetwork.org/en/index.php/GFN/page/earth_overshoot_day/
http://populationmatters.org/2013/population-matters-news/addressing-population-overshoot/