DemocracyNews
Monthly Electronic Newsletter of the World Movement for Democracy
The World Movement for Democracy is a global network of democrats, including activists, practitioners, academics, policy makers, and funders, who have come together to develop new forms of cooperation to promote the development of democracy. View previous issues of DemocracyNews.
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CONTENTS
DEMOCRACY ALERTS/APPEALS
1. Asian Democracy Network Condemns Jailing of Sam Rainsy in Cambodia
2. Support Freedom of Speech in Russia
3. Human Rights Watch Calls for Independent Investigation into Killings in Dongzhou, China
4. Human Rights Watch Calls on Thai Government to End the Use of "Blacklists"
5. Amendments to Belarusian Criminal Code Endanger Freedom of Expression
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS
6. World Movement for Democracy Launches the Fourth Assembly Web Site
7. Cuban Political Prisoner Receives Prize
8. Call for Nominations: King Baudouin Foundation International Development Prize
9. Fellowships for Emerging Leaders in Developing Countries
10. Job Opportunity: Working With the Khmer Rouge Tribunal
11. Call for Nominations: 2006 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award
CIVIL SOCIETY STRENGTHENING
12. Communication Toolkit for Researchers and Civil Society Organizations
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
13. 14th Annual International Conference on Conflict Resolution on May 5-15, 2006 in St. Petersburg, Russia
DECENTRALIZATION AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT
14. Global Network on Local Governance Launches its Web Site
ECONOMIC REFORM AND THE BUSINESS SECTOR
15. Center for International Private Enterprise Launches Blog on Development
ELECTIONS
16. Zimbabwe Election Group Reports Lowest Voter Turn-out Recorded Since 1980
HUMAN RIGHTS
17. West African Human Rights Defenders Network Launches Web site
18. Study of UN Voting Pattern Shows Increase in Censure of Human Rights Violations
19. Moroccan King Orders Public Release of Truth Commission Final Report
20. Suara Rakyat Malaysia(SUARAM) Publishes Summary of Civil and Political Rights Report 2005
21. Online Publication: "Australia's Mental Health System in Distress."
INTERNATIONAL DEMOCRACY ASSISTANCE AND SOLIDARITY
22. Southeastern Europe's Liberal Parties Gather in Belgrade
INTERNET, MEDIA, AND FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
23. South East Europe Media Organization Urges Albanian Authorities to Investigate Attack.
24. National Union of Somali Journalists Wins RSF International Press Freedom Award
25. Internews International Releases 2005 Annual Report
26. Kabissa Newsletter Offers News on ICT in Africa
POLITICAL PARTIES AND POLITICAL LEADERSHIP
27. Asian Center for Human Rights (ACHR) Addresses Challenges Facing Afghanistan
RULE OF LAW
28. Liberia National Law Enforcement Newsletter
TRANSPARENCY AND ANTI-CORRUPTION
29. Report on Democratic Oversight of Education Sector in Pakistan
30. Global Integrity Seeks Journalists and Researchers to Help Prepare Global Integrity Report
31. WORLD MOVEMENT PARTICIPATING NETWORKS, ORGANIZATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS MENTIONED IN THIS ISSUE
DEMOCRACY ALERTS/APPEALS
1. Asian Democracy Network Condemns Jailing of Sam Rainsy in Cambodia
On January 3, 2006, the Alliance for Reform and Democracy in Asia (ARDA) issued a statement denouncing the recent crackdown on the opposition and human rights activists in Cambodia, such as Kem Sokha and Yeng Virak. The Alliance expressed a concern over the break-down of the democratic system in the country. In this statement, ARDA calls on the Cambodian authorities to stop the persecution of human rights defenders. It also calls on the governments of ASEAN not turn a blind eye to the failings of its member states.
In its earlier statement, ARDA also condemned the recent 18-month sentence against Cambodia's opposition leader Sam Rainsy by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court. The sentence follows the lifting of parliamentary immunity on MPs Sam Rainsy, Chea Poch, and Cheam Channy in February of 2005. ARDA calls on the government to release Cheam Channy, revoke Sam Rainsy's 18-month sentence, and reinstate parliamentary immunity in Cambodia.
Go to: www.asiademocracy.org/content_view.php?section_id=2&content_id=618 and to
www.asiademocracy.org/content_view.php?section_id=2&content_id=621
2. Support Freedom of Speech in Russia
The Center for Journalism in Extreme Situations (CJES) based in Russia recently issued a statement in support of Stanislav Dmitriyevsky, editor-in-chief of a local newspaper, Pravo-Zaschita, founded by the public association Nizhny Novgorod Human Rights Society. A criminal case against the journalist was opened in January 2005 based on the publication in Pravo-Zashchita of statements made by representatives of the elected inter-war government of Chechnya, Akhmed Zakayev and Aslan Maskhadov, which contained calls for a peaceful settlement of the Russian-Chechen conflict, criticism of the Russian government, army, and President Vladimir Putin. Human rights activists consider the charges to be politically motivated and designed to undermine the constitutional guarantees of freedom of speech. Dmitriyevsky's trial, which began in November, will resume on January 18. The CJES is collecting signatures for the statement issued on his behalf.
To sign the statement in support of the Stanislav Dmitriyevky, go to: www.cjes.ru/actions/action.php?p_id=1
3 Human Rights Watch Calls for Independent Investigation into Killings in Dongzhou, China
On December 15, 2005, Human Rights Watch (HRW) issued a call for an independent and transparent investigation into the December 6, 2005 killing of protestors in Dongzhou village in China. The incident in Guangdong province is the first known shooting of public protestors since the June 1989 massacre of democracy advocates in Tiananmen Square. The Dongzhou killings took place after a large crowd gathered to protest the arrest of villagers involved in negotiations over a poweplant. In an open letter circulated Tuesday, more than 50 Chinese intellectuals demanded an independent investigation. Human Rights Watch said it agreed with the authors of the letter and urged China to invite the United Nations or another independent body to investigate the killings immediately.
Go to: www.hrw.org/english/docs/2005/12/15/china12281.htm
4. Human Rights Watch Calls on Thai Government to End the Use of "Blacklists"
On December 16, 2005, Human Rights Watch (HRW) issued a call for the Thai government to end its use of blacklists. According to HRW, the use of blacklists of suspected militants has created a climate of fear in Thailand. Those on the list, who are Muslim villagers, are required to surrender themselves voluntarily and undergo re-education programs. Under the July 2005 Emergency Decree, defying a summons can result in imprisonment. Since those summoned are not considered criminal suspects, they are denied the right to habeas corpus and access to legal council, and have no safeguards against torture. At the same time, the Emergency Decree grants immunity to the government and its officials from allegations of abuse.
Go to: www.hrw.org/english/docs/2005/12/16/thaila12317.htm
5. Amendments to Belarusian Criminal Code Endanger Freedom of Expression
On December 16, 2005, CIVICUS, the World Alliance for Citizen Participation, and Belarusian human rights center Viasna, issued an alert on recent amendments to the Belarusian criminal code that will further endanger civil society's freedoms of association, expression, and assembly. The amendments, which came into force on December 20, 2005, impose jail terms of up to two years for anyone who facilitates or participates in group activities, works with unregistered organizations, appeals for assistance from foreign governments and organizations, or 'discredits' the Republic of Belarus in any way. CIVICUS and Viasna urge the government of Belarus to immediately repeal these new amendments.
Go to: www.civicus.org/csw/Belarus_JointStatement.htm
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS
6. World Movement for Democracy Launches the Fourth Assembly Web Site
The World Movement for Democracy recently launched the Web site for its upcoming Fourth Assembly. The Assembly, entitled "Advancing Democracy: Justice, Pluralism, and Participation," is scheduled to take place on April 2-5, in Istanbul, Turkey. The Web site includes general information on the meeting, workshops, and venue. Detailed Assembly agenda and other important information will be posted on the Web site soon.
Go to: www.wmd.org/fourth_assembly/main.html
7. Cuban Political Prisoner Receives Prize
Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, prisoner of conscience from the Cuban Movement of Youth for Democracy and independent journalist for the Western Free Press Agency, was awarded the Carlos Manuel de Cespedes Prize for Dignity on December 10, 2005, by the Western Democratic Alliance. The Prize was created by the Alliance to recognize the patriotism, heroism, courage, and stance of political prisoners from the five Western provinces of Cuba. The Prize is awarded annually on December 10th, the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Go to: www.directorio.org/press_releases/press_releases.php?note_id=895
8. Call for Nominations: King Baudouin Foundation International Development Prize
The Brussels-based King Baudouin Foundation invites nominations for the 2006-07 King Baudouin International Development Prize. The King Baudouin Prize is awarded every other year to reward the work of individuals or organizations that have made a substantial contribution to the development of countries in the Southern Hemisphere or to solidarity between industrialized and developing nations. Beyond its actual financial value, the prize provides its winners with international visibility and promotion. The 2006-07 prize, worth 150,000 euros, will be awarded in the spring of 2007 at the Royal Palace in Brussels. Previous prize-winners cover a broad spectrum of fields from literacy, education of rural communities, technology transfer, new forms of credit, human rights and fair trade.
For more information go to: www.kbprize.org/, and www.kbs-frb.be/
9. Fellowships for Emerging Leaders in Developing Countries
Applications are now available for the 2006-07 round of the H.J. Heinz Company Foundation Fellowship Program at the University of Pittsburgh. The Fellowships are offered annually and provide for one year of practical, professional, and non-degree educational experiences at the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. Heinz Fellowships will be granted to two individuals from developing countries who demonstrate potential as future leaders in the public, non-profit, or private sectors. The goal is to improve, early in a career, the Fellows' capacity to contribute to the development of their country and to enhance their understanding of the United States. Deadline for applications is March 15, 2006.
For more information and to obtain application forms, go to: www.ucis.pitt.edu/heinzfellowship or contact heinz@ucis.pitt.edu
10. Job Opportunity: Working With the Khmer Rouge Tribunal
The Documentation Center of Cambodia (DC-Cam) seeks several exceptional law students to serve as Legal Associates during months of June-August, 2006, to work closely with officials and attorneys from the Khmer Rouge Tribunal. DC-Cam is an independent Cambodian NGO originally created by Yale University scholars pursuant to the Cambodian Genocide Justice Act of 1994. The Khmer Rouge Tribunal, more accurately known as the "Extraordinary Chambers," will put certain former Khmer Rouge officials on trial, and DC-Cam is expected to play a central role in the proceedings. The Associates will assist the Deputy Legal Director of the Response Team. Law students with an avid interest in international criminal law and human rights are invited to apply. The positions are unpaid, but DC-Cam will make every effort to meet Associates' travel, board and lodging expenses by helping successful applicants identify and apply for suitable funds. Applicants should e-mail a resume and brief statement of interest to john_ciorciari@post.harvard.edu no later than January 30, 2006.
Go to: www.dccam.org
11. Call for Nominations: 2006 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award
The Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Center for Human Rights is now accepting nominations for the 2006 RFK Human Rights Award. The Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Center for Human Rights (CHR) engages in long-term partnerships with social justice activists to initiate and support sustainable social justice movements. The nominee must be currently active in human rights advocacy in the country where the human rights violations against which s/he is fighting are taking place, and must be part of and/or lead, a human rights campaign or organization. The nomination cycle will close on April 15, 2006.
Go to: www.rfkmemorial.org/legacyinaction/selectionprocess/.
The nomination form can be accessed at: www.rfkmemorial.org/legacyinaction/Nominate_Advocate/
CIVIL SOCIETY STRENGTHENING
12 Communication Toolkit for Researchers and Civil Society Organizations
This handbook, "Successful Communication: A Toolkit for Researchers and Civil Society Organizations," published by the Overseas Development Institute, is geared towards the needs of researchers and practitioners in civil society organizations, including development NGOs, research institutes, think tanks, and universities. It addresses the questions of how researchers and civil society practitioners can best communicate evidence in order to inform or influence policy, to achieve their own stated objectives, or simply to make their own knowledge accessible and understandable to a wider audience.
For more information and to download the toolkit, go to: www.comminit.com/materials/ma2005/materials-2604.html
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
13. 14th Annual International Conference on Conflict Resolution on May 5-15, 2006 in St. Petersburg, Russia
The Annual International Conference on Conflict Resolution (ICR), sponsored by the Common Bond Institute (USA) and the Harmony Institute (Russia) is to be held on May 5-15, 2006 in St. Petersburg, Russia. It will offer an open forum exploring conflict transformation within diverse contexts, including arts, culture, economics and business, environment, education, gender, global and regional conflicts, health, human rights, community, and spirituality. Many opportunities will be provided for intensive dialogue on theory and perceptions of conflict and transformation, practical skills training, networking, and collaboration. Proposals for presentation must be submitted by March 10, 2006. A parallel youth conference on "The Ecology of War and Peace" will also take place at the same location. It is open to youth from any country between the ages of 14-18, and their adult chaperones. An intensive International Training in Trauma Treatment for relief workers from regions of conflict is scheduled to take place following the ICR Conference.
Go to: www.cbiworld.org/Pages/Conferences_ICR.htm
DECENTRALIZATION AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT
14. Global Network on Local Governance Launches its Web Site
On December 20, 2005, the Web site of the Global Network on Local Governance (GNLG) was launched. The Web site contains an array of information on trends and developments in the field of local government at the global level. In addition to information on the state of local governments around the world, the Web site also proposes to hold online discussions on contemporary issues concerning decentralization, grassroots democracy, and empowerment of disadvantaged groups. The Web site is prepared and maintained by the Institute of Social Sciences, New Delhi, which serves as the Secretariat for the GNLG. The GNLG is a network of elected local government representatives, democracy activists, academics, and socially active NGOs and serves work as a clearinghouse for information, innovative practices, and events concerning local governments. The primary purpose of the GNLG is the dissemination of success stories and the sharing of experiences at regional and global levels. The GNLG network emerged as a result of discussions at the second and third Assemblies of the World Movement for Democracy, with which it is affiliated.
Go to: www.gnlg.org
ECONOMIC REFORM AND THE BUSINESS SECTOR
15. Center for International Private Enterprise Launches Blog on Development
The CIPE Development Blog is an online forum designed to encourage discussion among reformers, civil society and youth leaders, and others interested in issues relating to economic reform and democratic development. It discusses international development issues in light of CIPE's programs and world events. For additional information, contact blog@cipe.org
Go to: www.cipe.org/blog.
ELECTIONS
16. Zimbabwe Election Group Reports Lowest Voter Turn-out Recorded Since 1980
In a press statement dated November 27, 2005, the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) characterized the 2005 Senatorial elections in this country as having the lowest voter turn out since independence, with the average percentage of voter turn-out at less than 30 percent. The lowest poll prior to that was the 1996 presidential election, which recorded a 32.3 percent turn-out. According the ZESN, the low turn-out implies a protest vote by Zimbabweans against the status quo. They also cited other factors, such as a questioning of the role of the Senate and the importance of voting, dwindling interest in the integrity of the ballot, current economic hardships, and lack of adequate voter education and information
Go to: www.zesn.org.zw/docs/Press%20statement%20Senate%20Final.doc
HUMAN RIGHTS
17. West African Human Rights Defenders Network Launches Web site
In observance of International Human Rights Day on December 10, the West African Human Rights Defenders Network (WAHRDNet) announced the launching of its Web site. It contains news, information on human rights abuses, information by country, monthly events, projects, and resources. WAHRDnet is an umbrella institution of national coalitions of NGOs working in the field of human rights in the 16 West African countries.
Go to: www.wahrdnet.org/
18. Study of UN Voting Pattern Shows Increase in Censure of Human Rights Violations
A new Democracy Coalition Project (DCP) survey shows a marked improvement in UN member states' willingness to adopt resolutions criticizing human rights violations in specific countries this year. The United Nations General Assembly's Third Committee approved six out of seven resolutions criticizing human rights violations and a seventh resolution was blocked from consideration by a motion to adjourn the debate, down from three resolutions blocked last year. Consistent support from new and old democracies from the Americas and Europe for resolutions that condemn the worst human rights violations, coupled with an increasing tendency by democracies in Africa and the Caribbean to abstain from voting against such resolutions, account for the improvement this year, the annual survey reveals.
Go to: www.demcoalition.org/pdf/Scorecard%202005-2006%20Analysis.pdf
19. Moroccan King Orders Public Release of Truth Commission Final Report
According to a report released by the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ), on December 16, 2005, King Mohammad VI approved the publication and public release of the final report of the Moroccan Equity and Reconciliation Commission (IER). According to the summaries, the full report determines the responsibilities of state actors and other parties for abuses, and outlines an extensive reparations plan for victims and their families. While addressing the precise nature of past violations, the report also recommends concrete steps the Moroccan government and civil society can take to ensure non-repetition in the future, such as measures and reforms that strengthen the rule of law. The ICTJ assists countries pursuing accountability for past mass atrocity or human rights abuse. The Center works in societies emerging from repressive rule or armed conflict, as well as in established democracies where historical injustices or systematic abuse remain unresolved.
Go to: www.ictj.org/downloads/PR.051216.IERReportRelease.eng.pdf
To access the summaries, go to: www.ictj.org/downloads/IERreport.summary.eng.pdf
20. Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM) Publishes Summary of Civil and Political Rights Report 2005
Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM), a leading human rights organization in Malaysia, has published the Executive Summary of its Malaysian Civil and Political Rights Report 2005 on December 9, 2005. The full report is scheduled to be published in April of 2006.
Go to: http://suaram.net/2005-hr-exec-summ-eng.pdf
For more information on SUARAM, go to: www.suaram.net/
21. Online Publication: "Australia's Mental Health System in Distress."
South Asia Human Rights Documentation Center (SAHRDC) has issued the December edition of the Human Rights Feature article, HRF-132, "Australia's mental health system in distress." The article reviews the findings of a report prepared by the Mental Health Council of Australia and the Brain and Mind Research Institute, in consultation with the Human Rights Equal Opportunity Commission of Australia (HREOC). The 2005 Report, "Not for Service: Experiences of Injustice and Despair in Mental Health Care in Australia," analyzes Australia's mental health system. It demonstrates that human rights violations exposed in an earlier (1993) report by HREOC have not been rectified.
Go to: www.hrdc.net/sahrdc/hrfeatures/HRF132.htm
INTERNATIONAL DEMOCRACY ASSISTANCE AND SOLIDARITY
22. Southeastern Europe's Liberal Parties Gather in Belgrade
A declaration, "Chance for the Future," was ratified at the regional conference of Southeastern Europe's liberal parties held on December 13, 2005, in Belgrade. The declaration aims to increase cooperation among the liberal parties in the region. The Civic Alliance of Serbia (conference organizer), the Liberal Democratic Party, and representatives of the liberal political parties from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Bulgaria, Albania, Macedonia, and Kosovo attended the conference. The declaration encourages full European Union membership, the strengthening of regional cooperation, and addressing the past as a necessity for the development of countries in the region.
Go to: www.gradjanskisavez.org.yu/eng/vest.php?id=42
INTERNET, MEDIA, AND FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
23. South East Europe Media Organization Urges Albanian Authorities to Investigate Attack.
In a press release on December 21, 2005, the Vienna, Austria-based South East Europe Media Organization (SEEMO) issued an alert about the recent attack on a media house in Albania. On the night of December 18, unknown persons threw explosives into an area close to the building in which three newspapers, Shekulli, Sporti Shqiptar and Biznesi, and one magazine, Spekter, have their offices. Although no one was injured, there was damage to property. Oliver Vujovic, SEEMO Secretary General, condemned the incident and emphasized the importance of journalists' ability to report without fear of harassment or intimidation. SEEMO urges the Albanian authorities to investigate this case immediately and take all necessary action against those responsible.
Go to: www.southeasteurope.org/subpage.php?sub_site=2&id=15889&head=hl&site=1
For more information about SEEMO, go to: www.seemo.org
24. National Union of Somali Journalists Wins RSF International Press Freedom Award
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) was presented the International Press Freedom Award by Reporters Without Borders and Fondation de France. It is in recognition of the Union's fight to defend the freedom of the press in a country ravaged by internal warfare. The NUSOJ, which is a trade union organization that also deals with professional issues, is the first ever independent union for Somali journalists since the birth of Somalia.
Go to: www.nusoj.org
25. Internews International Releases 2005 Annual Report
Internews International's 2005 annual report is now available on its Web site. This publication provides an overview of the work of Internews in its mission of improving access to news and information for people around the world.
Go to: www.internews.org/about/ar2005/default.htm
26. Kabissa Newsletter Offers News on ICT in Africa
On January 10, 2005, Kabissa released the most recent issue of Kabissa Gong Gong, a monthly newsletter containing the latest news about Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Africa and how African Civil Society Organizations are using it. The current issue focuses on giving email a professional look, announcements from Kabissa members, a spotlight on the Maasai Girls Education Fund, and more. Kabissa's mission is to help African civil society organizations put ICTs to work for the benefit of the people those organizaitons serve.
Go to: www.kabissa.org/newsletter/
POLITICAL PARTIES AND POLITICAL LEADERSHIP
27. Asian Center for Human Rights (ACHR) Addresses Challenges Facing Afghanistan
The latest issue of the ACHR REVIEW, a weekly commentary and analysis of the Asian Centre for Human Rights (ACHR), analyzes many challenges facing President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan in the new year. Some of the challenges discussed are the harmonization of conflicting interests in the parliament, drug trafficking, materialization of aid pledged by donor countries, and the building up of Afghanistan's own security forces. The article states that the realization of democracy and the rebuilding of Afghanistan is a "Herculean task," whose success depends upon overcoming these challenges.
Go to: www.achrweb.org/Review/2005/105-05.htm
RULE OF LAW
28. Liberia National Law Enforcement Association Newsletter
The Liberia National Law Enforcement Association (LINLEA) issued its most recent newsletter in December 2005. The issue focuses on law enforcement issues and on improving the law enforcement and security administration situation in Liberia. This newsletter contains articles on the functions of law enforcement agencies in conflict, leadership seminars, upcoming events, and principles of democratic governance in the security sector.
Go to: www.wmd.org/documents/jan2005-linlea_newsletter-jan2005.doc
TRANSPARENCY AND ANTI-CORRUPTION
29. Report on Democratic Oversight of Education Sector in Pakistan
The Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives, Pakistan (CPDI-Pakistan) has issued a report on the "Performance of the Standing Committee of the Senate on Education." This report has been prepared with the aim of aiding civil society organizations to strengthen democratic oversight in the education sector, and facilitating the work of members of the Senate Committee in implementing appropriate steps to improve their performance. CPDI-Pakistan welcomes feedback and comments on the report.
Go to: www.cpdi-pakistan.org/publications.htm
30. Global Integrity Seeks Journalists and Researchers to Help Prepare Global Integrity Report
Global Integrity, a US-based NGO dedicated to collecting and disseminating data and information on governance and corruption trends around the world is seeking journalists and researchers with expertise in governance and anti-corruption to help prepare the 2006 edition of the Global Integrity Report. The Report will assess the state of corruption in 100 countries based on on-the-ground reporting and a set of indicators measuring transparency, government accountability, and anti-corruption initiatives. Interested candidates should submit their resumé/CV and three references to info@globalintegrity.org. Applications will be reviewed in early 2006.
Go to: www.globalintegrity.org/inviteletter
31. WORLD MOVEMENT PARTICIPATING NETWORKS, ORGANIZATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS MENTIONED IN THIS ISSUE
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