The following media round up on international and foreign policy issues from around the world for the period of 17 to 24 June 2024.
Guernica 37 will provide weekly media updates from the International Criminal Court, European Court of Human Rights, United Nations, European Union and other sources. Should you wish to contribute or submit a media summary, opinion piece or blog, please send to Ned Vucijak at nenadv@guernica37.com for consideration.
Gaza - 23 June 2024
The ICRC condemned a shelling attack near its Gaza office that killed 22 people and injured 45 who were seeking shelter. The ICRC emphasised the obligation of conflicting parties to avoid harm to civilians and damage to humanitarian structures under international law. The Hamas-controlled health ministry in Gaza reported casualties and attributed the attack to Israeli forces, while the Israeli Defense Forces denied direct attacks on Red Cross facilities and promised an investigation.
Hungary - 23 June 2024
Thousands of Hungarians rallied at the Budapest Pride March to protest against Hungary's anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. The demonstrators, including various ambassadors, condemned laws that restrict LGBTQ+ rights, such as the 2021 law prohibiting the portrayal of homosexuality to minors. The march emphasized international concern over Hungary's policies, highlighting ongoing efforts to advocate for equality and non-discrimination.
Lebanon - 23 June 2024
Escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah warned of a potential broader conflict in the Middle East. The situation has deteriorated with frequent skirmishes along the Israel-Lebanon border, exacerbated by Hezbollah's increasing involvement, which Israel views as a significant threat. The Guardian analysed the regional implications of this conflict, emphasizing that a full-scale war could destabilize the entire area, drawing in other nations and complicating existing geopolitical dynamics.
Kazakhstan - 22 June 2024
Kazakhstan's new mass media law, signed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokaev, includes provisions that may restrict media freedom and increase government control. The law requires online publications to register with authorities, grants the government power to deny accreditation to foreign journalists, and mandates monitoring of all media for compliance with undefined national values. Despite some positive amendments, such as reduced limitation periods for claims against media, the law's ambiguity and restrictive measures pose a threat to freedom of speech and information in Kazakhstan.
Ecuador - 22 June 2024
In a recent referendum, Ecuador voted on several constitutional amendments, including one that could significantly impact its stance on international arbitration. The referendum's outcome indicates a move towards rejecting international arbitration in favor of local judicial systems, raising concerns among foreign investors about the stability and fairness of dispute resolution in Ecuador. This shift may have profound implications for the country's legal and economic landscape, affecting its attractiveness to international business.
Mali - 21 June 2024
The International Criminal Court (ICC) unsealed an arrest warrant for Iyad Ag Ghaly for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in northern Mali between January 2012 and January 2013. Ghaly, also known as "Abou Fadl”, is believed to be the undisputed leader of the group Ansar Eddine, which at the time had control of Timbuktu, Mali, jointly with Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb ("AQIM"). Ghaly is accused of crimes including murder, rape, torture, and attacks on religious buildings. The ICC has requested cooperation from relevant authorities to facilitate his arrest and surrender.
Pakistan - 21 June 2024
Amnesty International reports escalating attacks on Pakistan's Ahmadiyya community, including arbitrary arrests, police harassment, and violence against places of worship. Despite official orders to protect the community, incidents have increased around religious holidays, revealing systemic discrimination and inadequate protection from authorities. Amnesty calls for immediate action to safeguard Ahmadis' rights and urges the repeal of blasphemy laws used to target them.
Namibia - 21 June 2024
The Namibia High Court has overturned colonial-era laws criminalizing same-sex sexual conduct, a significant victory for human rights. This ruling aligns with Namibia's constitution and international human rights standards, promoting equality and non-discrimination. Despite this progress, Amnesty International commented that there is still a need to protect LGBTI persons from ongoing violence and discriminatory rhetoric in Namibia.
DPRK - 21 June 2024
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed support for North Korea's policies during a meeting with North Korean officials, aligning against Western pressure. This development came amid ongoing tensions in Ukraine, where Russia's actions faced international condemnation. South Korea and other regional actors watched these interactions closely, concerned about the implications for regional stability and security.
Taiwan - 21 June 2024
China threatened the death penalty for 'diehard' Taiwan separatists. China issued guidelines threatening severe punishments, including the death penalty, for Taiwanese independence advocates. The guidelines aim to punish those promoting Taiwan's independence, engaging in official exchanges, or taking actions deemed as secessionist under existing laws. Taiwan rejected these threats, emphasising that Chinese laws have no jurisdiction over the island and urging its citizens not to be intimidated by Beijing's moves.
US Supreme Court - 21 June 2024
The Supreme Court in United States v. Rahimi upheld a law barring those under certain domestic-violence restraining orders from possessing firearm. Yet the broader implication of the Supreme Court’s ruling was to avoid a major shift on gun rights by declining to take up a broad Second Amendment case. Instead, the Court opted for a narrower ruling, focusing on specific regulations without making sweeping changes to existing gun laws. This decision highlights the Court's cautious approach in addressing the complex and contentious issue of gun control.
Israel - 20 June 2024
Activists have called on UK arms manufacturers to halt sales to Israel, citing potential criminal liability for their role in facilitating alleged human rights abuses against Palestinians. The campaigners argue that these sales contribute to violations of international law, including war crimes, and hold UK companies complicit in the violence. They are urging for stricter regulations and accountability measures to prevent further harm and ensure adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Ukraine - 20 June 2024
The United States announced new measures to support Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces, including additional military aid and intelligence sharing. This policy shift aimed to bolster Ukraine's defenses and enhance its ability to reclaim occupied territories. The move reflected a US intended strategic response to escalating Russian aggression and demonstrated continued US commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and security.
Republic of Congo - 19 June 2024
The Congolese Ministry of the Environment has suspended Metssa Congo's operations due to health and environmental risks. An urgent investigation is needed to assess the plant's impact on local communities, with findings made public and appropriate measures taken. This follows reports of the company's failure to conduct environmental impact assessments and high lead levels found in residents.
Angola - 19 June 2024
Rights groups urged Angolan police to respect the rights of protesters during demonstrations in Luanda. The protests are against economic decline, political repression, and arbitrary arrests. Amnesty International highlighted past instances of police violence during peaceful protests and calls for adherence to international law and the protection of citizens' right to peaceful assembly.
Brazil - 19 June 2024
The Federal Supreme Court of Brazil signed an agreement with major digital media platforms, including Google, Meta, TikTok, and Kwai, to combat misinformation. This agreement focuses on the 2024 elections, aiming to strengthen the dissemination of accurate information and uphold the integrity of the electoral process. The collaboration will involve implementing measures to identify and remove false content, promoting transparency, and educating the public on identifying misinformation.
United States - 18 June 2024
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled that the act of state doctrine barred the recovery of a painting sold under duress during World War II by Max Emden, whose descendants sought its return from the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston. The court determined that adjudicating the claim would require evaluating acts of the Dutch government, which shipped the painting to the U.S. under mistaken identity. This ruling underscores the doctrine's role in preventing U.S. courts from judging foreign sovereign acts.