The following media round up on international and foreign policy issues from around the world for the period of 3 to 9 September 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.
South Sudan - 9 September 2024
The South Sudanese Parliament approved a set of transitional justice laws aimed at addressing crimes committed during the country’s civil conflict. These laws include provisions for a truth and reconciliation commission, reparations for victims, while work continues to set up a hybrid court to prosecute serious crimes. Despite this development, human rights groups express concerns about the political will to fully implement the laws given long-standing entrenched impunity.
Brazil - 9 September 2024
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro led a free speech rally following the suspension of his social media accounts on X (formerly Twitter). Bolsonaro decried the censorship of conservative voices and called for greater protections for political speech. His critics argue the suspension is justified due to the former president's continued dissemination of disinformation, particularly around Brazil’s electoral process.
Italy - 9 September 2024
The Italian authorities detained an NGO-operated ship belonging to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) that was engaged in migrant sea rescues in the Mediterranean. Italian officials cited new regulations limiting NGO rescue activities as justification for the ship’s seizure. T his move is part of a broader crackdown on humanitarian rescue operations, prompting criticism from human rights groups who accuse Italy of violating international maritime law.
Bangladesh - 9 September 2024
A group of Bangladeshi academics has been credited by The Diplomat with laying the intellectual groundwork for Bangladesh’s recent political revolution. The network of professors has called for a fundamental transformation of governance, pushing for more inclusive policies and questioning the legitimacy of existing political structures. Their ideas gained traction amidst growing discontent with the former government,
Australia - 9 September 2024
Australia has announced plans to include questions about gender and sexual orientation in its 2026 national census. This move reflects growing recognition of the diversity within the Australian population and aims to provide better data to inform policy-making for the LGBTQ+ community. Some conservative groups have voiced opposition, arguing that such questions infringe on privacy and promote ideological agendas.
United States - 6 September 2024
A former Nixon adviser and television presenter has been charged by the US government with violating sanctions against Iran. The allegations involve illegally facilitating financial transactions linked to Iranian companies despite existing sanctions.
Nigeria - 6 September 2024
Nigerian authorities have charged several protesters with treason after their participation in demonstrations against government policies. The protests were largely peaceful, but the government claims that the actions of some demonstrators threatened national security. Human rights groups have condemned the charges, accusing the government of suppressing dissent and curtailing the right to free expression.
Hong Kong - 5 September 2024
Following a landmark court ruling in favour of same-sex couples, the Hong Kong government has been urged to expedite legislation recognizing same-sex partnerships. Human rights advocates have highlighted the need for clear legal frameworks to ensure equal rights and protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. The ruling is seen as a significant step forward, but activists remain cautious about the government's commitment to substantial reform.
Israel/Occupied Palestinian Territories - 5 September 2024
An investigation has called for the Israeli military to be scrutinised for the commission of war crimes constituting ‘wanton destruction’ of civilian property, a breach of international law. The report adds to growing calls for accountability in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Venezuela - 4 September 2024
The Venezuelan government continues its violent repression of protesters and opposition voters, particularly targeting those demanding free and fair elections. Recent crackdowns have included arbitrary arrests and the use of excessive force by security forces, exacerbating political tensions. This pattern of brutality is seen as a deliberate strategy to silence dissent and consolidate the regime’s hold on power ahead of upcoming elections.
Burkina Faso - 4 September 2024
A recent massacre in Barsalogho, Burkina Faso, has raised concerns about the involvement of both jihadi militias and military forces in human rights abuses. The attack, which left scores dead, is part of a broader pattern of escalating violence in the region. Human rights organizations are calling for an independent investigation to determine responsibility and to address the increasing vulnerability of civilians in the conflict.
Israel/United Kingdom - 3 September 2024
The UK government’s decision to suspend some arms sales to Israel in response to concerns over their use in Gaza has sparked a backlash from pro-Israel groups and some Conservative MPs. Critics argue that the suspension undermines the UK's strategic relationship with Israel and emboldens anti-Israel sentiment. Proponents of the decision assert that it is necessary to further the UK’s compliance with international humanitarian law.
Algeria - 2 September 2024
Ahead of its upcoming presidential elections, Algeria’s government continues to clamp down on civil society, with repressive measures targeting journalists, activists, and opposition figures. Authorities have ramped up censorship and surveillance, creating an environment of fear and intimidation. Human rights groups warn that this ongoing repression threatens the prospects for a free and fair electoral process.