International Criminal Court Marks Opening of the Judicial Year 2024

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
International Criminal Court Marks Opening of the Judicial Year 2024

On 19 January 2024, the International Criminal Court held a solemn hearing for the opening of its judicial year, featuring speeches of this year’s keynote speaker, Honorable Lady Justice Stella Isibhakhomen Anukam, Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, ICC Principals, and the President of the ICC Bar Association. ICC judges as well as the Vice-President of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), Ambassador Margareta Kassangana, Representatives from national jurisdictions, regional or international courts, the diplomatic corps, civil society and international organizations, also attended the event in ICC Courtroom 1 or through the online streaming.

The President of the ICC, Judge Piotr Hofmański, stated: “2023 was an extremely intense year for the ICC, both as regards judicial proceedings as well as investigations and reparations. This heavy workload will continue in 2024. What we would hope to see, of course, is more suspects in custody. We need States to step up their efforts to execute the outstanding arrest warrants.”

Honorable Lady Justice Stella Isibhakhomen Anukam, Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, delivers Keynote Address at the opening of the ICC judicial year 2024 on 19 January 2024 at the seat of the Court in The Hague ©ICC-CPI

Honorable Lady Justice Stella Isibhakhomen Anukam, Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, delivered a keynote address on the role of judicial institutions in pursuing sustainable peace, security and development and stated: “The strengthening of judicial institutions plays a key role in the restoration and consolidation of peace by facilitating the maintenance of law and order and fostering the peaceful resolution of disputes. … By holding the perpetrators accountable, the ICC ensures that justice is served, and prevents further crimes from occurring, hence contributing to sustainable peace, security and development. ”

Prosecutor Karim AA Khan KC noted: “The opening of the judicial year is always a time for pause, reflection and re-commitment to doing better. This opening also is full of the hope, promise and expectations that victims around the world and humanity have for more justice and less crime. It is also one in which the obligation of the Court to effectively discharge its mandate is put into very stark relief. My Office and I commit to working with fidelity under the Rome Statute, to discharge our responsibilities by building partnerships and by independently assessing the evidence that we gather so that justice can be delivered more effectively in all areas where the Court has jurisdiction.”

ICC Registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler said: ”Looking forward to the year ahead, we find ourselves in the midst of a paradigm shift, where the demands for justice test the capacities of the international community to adequately address them. The Court’s operational landscape is undergoing a drastic expansion, reaching across five continents. Simultaneously, we are confronted with unprecedented security challenges that threaten the very essence of our institution. Security serves as a crucial precondition for the success of our operations, whilst also forming the foundation for judicial and prosecutorial independence, therefore placing it at the heart of the Court’s legitimacy.”

The President of the International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA) Marie-Hélène Proulx stated: “In a world that may seem more uncertain and dangerous with each passing day, justice must remain our guiding light. And for the rule of law to thrive, we need fearless lawyers. We need advocates who will represent victims with heart and soul, lawyers who will defend their clients tooth and nail, independent of prejudice and public opinion. We need lawyers who are not afraid to do the right thing, even when it is unpopular, controversial, or difficult. ICC external counsel and their teams are made of that cloth, and the ICCBA is proud to represent them and advocate for them.”

The solemn hearing was followed by the ICC’s Sixth Annual Judicial Seminar attended by ICC judges and more than 40 judges from international, regional and national courts, including several chief justices of ICC States Parties , held both online and at the seat of the Court. This year’s Seminar will focus on the role and the rights of victims in the context of judicial responses to international crimes, at the ICC as well as in other jurisdictions, notably national and regional courts. A summary report of the Judicial Seminar, held under Chatham House rules, will be issued subsequently. The ICC is grateful to the European Union for the funding provided for the Judicial Seminar.

The Office of the Prosecutor launches public principles to advance understanding of the crime of gender persecution

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
The Office of the Prosecutor launches public principles to advance understanding of the crime of gender persecution

The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Mr Karim AA Khan KC, is pleased to announce a new initiative to advance accountability for the crime against humanity of persecution on the grounds of gender. This initiative will culminate in a comprehensive set of principles on gender persecution to provide guidance for increasing its prevention, and ensuring protection and participation of its survivors.

Complementing and building on the 2022 Policy on the Crime of Gender Persecution , this new initiative will help to further promote accountability, transparency and predictability in the work of the Office in this crucial area and serve as broader guidance internationally. The principles will be developed on the basis of international criminal law and human rights law, drawing from applicable treaties and general principles and rules of international law. It will also draw on the jurisprudence of the Court and other relevant human rights and accountability mechanisms.

Through this, the Prosecutor invites comments early in the development of this initiative, calling for input on, inter alia, the nature and scope for preventing, protecting and including victim participation that the principles ought to include, cover and address.

In highlighting the importance of the policy and stakeholder consultation, Prosecutor Khan stated: “Sexual and gender-based crimes are among the gravest under the Rome Statute. Justice requires a holistic understanding as to why perpetrators committed such acts, if we are to eliminate discrimination and break cycles of violence. Holding such crimes that meet the threshold for persecution accountable is a key priority for the Office. The gender persecution principles initiative is another commitment to this necessary objective.”

Mr Karim AA Khan KC, ICC Prosecutor.

Professor Lisa Davis, Special Adviser to the Prosecutor on Gender Persecution , will be assisting the Prosecutor and the Office in developing the principles. Professor Davis will be taking leave from the OTP during the open call and will return shortly after. “ Recognition of gender persecution acts helps to shed light on the historical and longstanding structural discrimination and fundamental rights deprivations experienced by vulnerable groups such as women, girls and LGBTQI+ persons. These principles will contribute to furthering effective measures to prevent and protect against gender persecution as well as to strengthen survivor participation”, stated Professor Davis.

In this first round of external consultations, the Office welcomes and encourages comments on the substance of the initiative early in the drafting process and prior to the first draft being produced and circulated for further input. The Prosecutor is of the view that external consultations on its policies and working methods are important for maintaining and furthering transparency and predictability, and generating the most comprehensive principles and policies. Comments will therefore be sought during the drafting process: first before the draft has been formulated, and a second round to solicit more specific and focused feedback.

Comments can be sent to OTP.Policies@icc-cpi.int by Friday, 22 November 2024, midnight, CET. All input received by the deadline will be carefully considered in the internal review and revision process.

The Office is grateful for the interest and support of the Rome Statute community for its activities and initiatives.

US-Greece Relations Reach New Heights: Blinken-Mitsotakis Meeting in Crete

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
US-Greece Relations Reach New Heights: Blinken-Mitsotakis Meeting in Crete

By Eleni Vasiliki Bampaliouta

The meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and American Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, held at the prime minister’s ancestral home in Chania, Crete, lasted an hour and twenty minutes. Against the backdrop of kaltsoynia (Greek traditional sweets) and raki (Greek traditional drink), Mitsotakis warmly welcomed Blinken, showcasing the nearby American base in Souda Bay from his garden.

The meeting unfolded in a friendly atmosphere, with Blinken underscoring that Greek-American relations are currently at their zenith, attributing it to Mitsotakis’s significant contribution. The Greek Prime Minister, in turn, conveyed the commitment of Athens and Washington to continue collaborating towards restoring peace and security in the Middle East region. In a brief exchange before television cameras, Mitsotakis expressed his pleasure in hosting Blinken, emphasizing the symbolic depth of the two countries’ relations, currently at an all-time high.

Mitsotakis stated, “It is with pleasure that I welcome you here in Souda Bay in a place that symbolizes the depth of our strategic partnership. It is my great pleasure to welcome you to a place like this at a time when our bilateral relations are better than ever. These are difficult and challenging times for the region and it is especially important for us to stand side by side and work not only for our strategic cooperation as allies but also to ensure that peace and stability return to our troubled region. Again, it is my pleasure to welcome you here.”

Expressing gratitude, Blinken thanked the Greek Prime Minister for the warm welcome, acknowledging the honor of being received at his home in Chania and highlighting the significance of hospitality. He remarked, “It is a great honor for me professionally and personally and it means a lot to me to be welcomed into your home and thank you very much. I have many Greek friends in the US who know what hospitality means. I completely agree with you about the relationship between the two countries. I have been doing this job for 30 years and I have told the US ambassador in Athens Mr. Giorgos Tsounis and I do not remember another time when the friendship and relations between Greece and the US were stronger and this is due to the good relationship between the two peoples and also to the leadership that you have demonstrated. We are grateful for that.

We are facing the most difficult challenges but we are united whether it is the war in the middle east or in Gaza, it gives us strength for the future. That’s why I’m here and I want to hear your point of view, and your cooperation and alliance means a lot to the United States. I completely agree with what you said about bilateral relations.”

He added, “We’re facing some of the toughest challenges we’ve ever faced, but the fact that we’re united, whether it’s Ukraine, or security and stability in the Middle East, or the war in Gaza, that gives us enormous strength and perspective for the future,” closing the brief conversation in front of the cameras by emphasizing the importance of their cooperation and alliance for the United States.

According to government sources, Greece, as a consistent and reliable partner and ally, will receive what has been agreed upon following the meeting. This is believed to refer to the approval of the sale of American F-35s to Greece. The meeting provided a comprehensive overview of Greek-American relations, confirming the “excellent” level, with expectations of further positive steps in defense cooperation in the coming period.

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis is currently in Washington, with discussions centering around the F-35 and the Middle East situation. On February 9, the Greek and US foreign ministers, Giorgos Gerapetritis and Anthony Blinken, are scheduled to meet in Washington. Greece is seeking an increased role in the ongoing processes in the Middle East, and the talks include Athens’ commitment to participating in the “Guardian of Prosperity” operation in the Red Sea.

Additionally, Greece aims to expand channels with critical actors in the region, as demonstrated by Mr. Gerapetritis’s recent visits to Jordan and Egypt, where he engaged in discussions with counterparts and leaders on regional issues, including the situation in Libya.

Case Against the Netherlands at the European Court of Human Rights

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Case Against the Netherlands at the European Court of Human Rights

The Dutch Supreme Court dismissed a claim against two Israeli military officials in August 2023, asserting that under international law, the accused enjoyed absolute immunity from civil suits. Despite the serious nature of the allegations against them, the Dutch courts found that Mr. Benny Gantz and Mr. Amir Eshel, former senior Israeli military officials, were immune from civil prosecution in the Netherlands.

Mr. Ismail Ziada, a Dutch national of Palestinian origin, exhausted his legal avenues within the Dutch court system after the dismissal of his civil claim against the two Israeli officials. This claim stemmed from the bombing of his family’s residence in Gaza’s Bureij refugee camp in July 2014, which resulted in the tragic death of six family members. The District Court of The Hague and the Court of Appeal had previously rejected the case.

Having exhausted domestic legal options, Ismail Ziada’s legal team is now taking the matter to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). A legal briefing took place on 18 December at the International Institute of Social Studies of Erasmus University Rotterdam (ISS) in The Hague. On 18 December, international lawyer Helen Duffy of Human Rights in Practice, in collaboration with ISS, the Nuhanovic Foundation, and the European Legal Support Center, lodged the case against the Netherlands at the ECHR. These entities co-hosted the public briefing.

Mr. Ziada’s case challenges the denial of justice in Dutch courts as a violation of the Netherlands’ obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights, specifically the right of access to justice. The legal action at the ECHR seeks to rectify this perceived violation and hold the Netherlands accountable for its obligations.

It is noteworthy that the backdrop of this case is the Israeli military operation codenamed “Operation Protective Edge,” during which approximately 2000 Palestinians, including Ziada’s mother, three brothers, nephew, and sister-in-law, lost their lives between July and August of 2014.

Mastering Public Diplomacy at the University of Ottawa: A Strategic Approach to Modern International Relations

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Mastering Public Diplomacy at the University of Ottawa: A Strategic Approach to Modern International Relations

In the fast-evolving landscape of international relations, mastering the art of public diplomacy has become increasingly crucial. The University of Ottawa’s Mastering Public Diplomacy course stands out as a beacon for diplomats and individuals eager to hone cutting-edge techniques in the realm of modern international affairs.

The course offers a comprehensive exploration into the realm of the “new diplomacy” – public diplomacy, where the focus extends beyond traditional state-to-state interactions to encompass the vital relationship between public diplomats and civil society in the receiving state. Over the 12-hour duration, participants delve deep into the intricacies of this evolving field, gaining valuable insights into effective communication strategies and hands-on skills development.

One of the course’s key objectives is to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to implement public diplomacy projects under a cost-effective policy. This approach is particularly relevant in today’s global context, where resource optimization is paramount, and swift, impactful strategies are essential for success.

Through a combination of storytelling and practical exercises, participants not only understand the theoretical foundations of public diplomacy but also learn how to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios. The emphasis on storytelling is especially noteworthy, as it aligns with the contemporary trend of using narratives to shape public opinion and build meaningful connections with diverse audiences.

An innovative aspect of the Mastering Public Diplomacy course is its recognition of the increasing role of locally engaged staff (non-diplomats) in public diplomacy departments. Participants gain valuable insights into why these individuals are becoming integral to the functioning of diplomatic missions and international organizations. This understanding allows diplomats and professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of public diplomacy with agility and adaptability.

The course caters to a diverse audience, including diplomats, diplomatic schools from ministries of foreign affairs, civil servants, journalists, international communication professionals, academics in diplomacy or international relations, staff from international organizations, the military, multinational corporations, the private sector, NGOs, and the civil society in general. This broad spectrum ensures a rich exchange of perspectives and experiences, enhancing the overall learning environment.

In a concise 12-hour timeframe and by bridging theory with practical skills, the course empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of modern international relations, fostering a new generation of public diplomats who are ready to face the challenges of our interconnected world.

For additional information visit Ottawa University Professional Development Institute

OpenAI Responds to New York Times Lawsuit: Defending the Use of Copyrighted Material

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
OpenAI Responds to New York Times Lawsuit: Defending the Use of Copyrighted Material

OpenAI, the organization behind the creation of ChatGPT, recently faced legal action from the New York Times, alleging the unauthorized use of millions of articles and a violation of intellectual property law. In response, OpenAI addressed the issue during a presentation before the British Parliament, emphasizing the challenges posed by the diverse nature of data sources.

OpenAI, in collaboration with Microsoft, asserted that it is “impossible” to develop advanced AI models without incorporating materials protected by copyright law. The organizations contended that copyright coverage extends to a broad spectrum of human expressions, ranging from blog posts and photographs to forums, software code snippets, and government documents. They argued that constraining AI training data to sources from 50 years ago or limiting it to public domain materials would be impractical and insufficient for meeting the demands of contemporary society.

“Copyright today covers virtually every type of human expression, including blog posts, photographs, snippets of software code, and government documents. It would be impossible to train leading AI models without using protected materials,” explained OpenAI.

Additionally, OpenAI is currently facing legal challenges from prominent authors, such as George R.R. Martin, John Grisham, and Jonathan Franzen, who allege that their works were used by the company to train its algorithms. The lawsuit highlights the ongoing tension between the necessity of using copyrighted material for AI training and the concerns raised by content creators regarding unauthorized use of their intellectual property.

As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome will likely shape the future landscape of AI development and the boundaries between innovation and intellectual property rights.

Lithuania contributes €10,000 to OPCW missions in Syria

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Lithuania contributes €10,000 to OPCW missions in Syria

Lithuania’s contribution will support OPCW in implementing its mandate related to the Syrian Arab Republic

THE HAGUE, Netherlands—21 December 2023— The Government of the Republic of Lithuania has voluntarily contributed €10,000 to the Trust Fund for Syria Missions of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

The contribution will be used towards the full elimination of the Syrian Chemical Weapons Programme as well as establishing facts surrounding the alleged use of chemical weapons in Syria, in accordance with the Chemical Weapons Convention, relevant decisions of the policy-making organs of the OPCW, and resolutions of the United Nations Security Council.

The voluntary contribution was formalised on 19 December 2023 in a signing ceremony held between the Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Lithuania to the OPCW, H.E. Mr Neilas Tankevičius, and the OPCW Director-General, Ambassador Fernando Arias, at the Organisation’s Headquarters in The Hague.

Lithuania’s contribution will support OPCW

“Lithuania commends the important work of the OPCW and will continue supporting key activities of the Organisation. With this voluntary contribution, we are pleased to assist the OPCW’s pivotal work in the Syrian Arab Republic,” said Ambassador Tankevičius.

“We will continue to support the Organisation through active engagement in the Executive Council from 2024 to 2026,” he added.

The Director-General stated: “I express my sincere appreciation to Lithuania for its financial and political support to the OPCW’s mission to permanently eradicate chemical weapons. This contribution will help the OPCW to continue its critical work in Syria to ensure that the norms and principles of the Chemical Weapons Convention are upheld.”

‘The Pollera’ – Panama’s National Pride

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
‘The Pollera’ – Panama’s National Pride

8 of January, 7th and 9th of February, 2024
Special series of Events by the Embassy of Panama

The Ambassador of Panama, H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, started a unique national promotional program under the theme of Panama National Dress, “La Pollera”. With a small population of only 4.2 million inhabitants, the central American nation is invariably proud of having what is considered to be one of the most beautiful and costly national dresses in the world and ambassador Ward decided to share it with the Dutch society.

Panama is known primarily for its mix of races and exuberant nature; its rich gastronomy; its ultramodern city and historic center; as a top international business and finance center; and as an air, maritime and digital hub leading to an internationally well-known logistic center being one of the best-connected countries in the world.  Less known is that it is one of the three carbon negative countries in the world.

Carolina Ward Bothmann in a Pollera de Gala and H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, Ambassador of Panama at the Panamenian Chancellery.

On the 8th of January, at the International Women Club, the 7th of February at Instituto Cervantes of Utrecht, and 9th of February at The Arts Society The Hague are a series of events hosted by the Embassy of Panama in collaboration with the mentioned prestigious cultural entities.

Sheyla Karman in a Pollera Montuna, H.E. Ms. Madeleine Liguemoh Ondoua, Ambassador of the Republic of Cameroon, H.E. Ms. Marisol Aguero Colunga, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru, H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal, Ambassador of the Argentinian Republic, H.E. Ms. Sahar Ghanem, Ambassador of the Republic of Yemen and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, the host H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, H.E. Mr. Agustin Vásquez Gómez, Ambassador of the Republic of El Salvador and Johanna Landman, in a Pollera de Gala at the Instituto Cervantes of Utrecht.

During each event, H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman is delivering a presentation on ´The Pollera’, the traditional national dress of Panama, worn by women primarily during folkloric and cultural festivities to honour the Panamanian heritage and traditions.

The art of producing these hand-made dresses and transferred from one generation to the next, is making a comeback due to increased efforts by the government which are explained during the presentations. It takes several years and multiple artisans to make one of the gala polleras, thus making them very costly!  

The pollera has undergone evolution throughout the years but its origin dates to the time of the Spanish conquest dating from the traditional Spanish peasant dress of the 16th and 17th centuries.  “At that time, it was the women´s daily attire; very simple, normally white with floral embroidery and used in mild climates and areas such as in Andalusia with harsh climates in summer season. In Panama, the pollera, which translated means “skirt”, refers to the set of shirt and skirt and is used in festivities denoting nationalism and folklore as well as on special occasions.” explained Ambassador Ward to the attendees.  

Sheyla Karman in a Pollera Montuna, H.E. Ms. Madeleine Liguemoh Ondoua, Ambassador of the Republic of Cameroon, H.E. Ms. Marisol Aguero Colunga, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru, H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal, Ambassador of the Argentinian Republic, H.E. Ms. Sahar Ghanem, Ambassador of the Republic of Yemen and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, the host H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, H.E. Mr. Agustin Vásquez Gómez, Ambassador of the Republic of El Salvador and Johanna Landman, in a Pollera de Gala.

There are 28 varieties depending on the region where it is made. The style of pollera would determinate the type and quantity of jewelry and hair pieces worn, which can range from fresh flowers and wooden beads to extravagant tembleques and numerous gold chains.   “The more casual pollera, the Pollera Montuno, referring to the mountains where the women would come from, is plainer and straighter and is made from a certain type and quantity of inexpensive fabric.  There are several types of montuno polleras.  They are used during the carnival, folkloric parades and rural events like the rice shelling,” she explained while a model walked to the scenario to demonstrate it.  

The Pollera Congo, originated among the slaves and black women that were dependent on fabric scraps to make their clothing resulting in a colorful mix of plain and printed designs sewn together in geometric patterns.  Added, were fresh or dried flowers as hair ornaments and jewelry made out of a variety of beads or wood.   The fancier, Pollera de Gala, also has several varieties.  One is the totally white dress and used on very special occasions, such as weddings. However, the maximum plus ultra is the Pollera de Gala Zurcida Calada. It is the most elaborated and costly of all polleras; hand made of imported fine white linen fabric and French or Belgian lace, with colored intricate unique embroidery with takes from three years and up to make it. Many artisans work together and combine their unique contributions before being stitched together to finalize the confection of the dress. The dress is enriched with braids and laces and the colors are chosen by the proud new owner as she orders her dream pollera.

An equally important part of the gala pollera are the head accessories called Tembleques (The term comes from the movement of the pistils of the flowers, as they should move when dancing).  They are made of pearls, crystals, and other materials.  Between 12 and 14 pairs of Tembleques, depicting flowers and garden animals, should be placed symmetrically on the women´s head depending on the size of the woman and the year the pollera was made.  Gold jewelry, as well as matching colored motta, ribbon and shoes complete the full gala pollera dress.  

While choosing the headdress adornments as well as the gold jewelry, certain rules must be respected to maintain the tradition of the pollera. There are specific types of gold earrings and other golden jewellery, consisting of seven to twelve gold necklaces each with a specific name and meaning holding different symbols of Catholicism, bracelets and rings.  

Johanna Landman, in a stunning Pollera de Gala, H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman and Sheyla Karman in a charming traditional Pollera Montuna at the Instituto Cervantes of Utrecht.

The national parade, Desfile de las Mil Polleras, is organised every year in January by the Panama Tourism Authority to promote Panamanian cultural heritage through the pollera of each region, made by people dedicated during the year to the special artisanal work. This year it was celebrated on the 13 of January in the city of Las Tablas and it exceeded 20, 000 parading women in polleras and 250, 000 people in attendance.

After Ambassador Ward Neiman´s fascinating presentation, drinks and canapés were served.

Senegal on the eve of presidential elections

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Senegal on the eve of presidential elections

HRWF (09.01.2024) – When Senegal goes to the polls to elect a President on 25 February 2024, it will be a crucial date with ramifications far beyond that country’s borders.

President Macky Sall’s decision not to stand for a third term bucks the trend in a region with leaders seeking to extend their hold on power. The Senegalese president’s announcement that he will not stand, and his instruction to his government to do everything possible to organise a transparent election, send a clear signal to his own people and also set the tone for other elections on the continent this year.

President Sall’s announcement was praised by neighbouring leaders, the African Union, the USA, and former colonial power France, whose foreign ministry said “Senegal is again delivering proof of the solidity of its long democratic tradition.” Certainly, Senegal is providing a welcome contrast to some other nations on the continent. With military rule in Burkina Faso, Guinea and Mali, plus Ivory Coast president staying in power in third term and Togo’s for a fourth, Senegal does seem a much needed beacon. A look at all mainland Francophone Africa’s countries sees Senegal standing out as truly democratic, with free elections, the transfer of power between opposing parties, and as we have seen with President Sall’s commitment not to stand, firm commitment to constitutional limits. The true test of democracy is the willingness to allow smooth transitions via free and fair elections.

Senegal’s February vote is one of several important African elections in 2024, including Mali, which is currently under military rule, South Africa, Ghana and Botswana. The international community will be looking to Dakar for an early indicator of how this year might look across the continent.

President Sall’s decision offers a firm foundation for Senegal’s future commitment to continued democracy protection of human rights. The international community should provide maximum support to Senegal as it goes to the polls, as the positive impact of that country’s smooth transition of power will echo across the continent. There should also be great vigilance regarding any foreign interference, especially from Russia, in Senegal’s February election campaign, as that too will have far-reaching ramifications.

Publishied by Human Rights Without Borders.

Congratulations to the class of 2023

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Congratulations to the class of 2023

On 20 December 2023, ISS’ latest MA graduates collected their diplomas during a heartfelt commemoration to conclude their academic journey.

During the ceremony, 108 students were awarded their degrees, while some graduates attended virtually from their home countries. The batch comprised students from almost 50 different countries.

Furthermore, two awards were presented at the ceremony. Dr Roy Huijsmans, Dr Karin Astrid Siegmann, and Dr Nanneke Winters received the Best Teacher Award for their exceptional facilitation. The Best Thesis Prizes were awarded to Conor Farrell, Joelle Vetter and Amanda Faria Oliveira for their high-quality research work.

The 2023 Best Student Essays booklet, ‘An Exercise in Worldmaking’, was unveiled at the ceremony. This booklet, available now for reading, features 26 essays showcasing students’ diverse perspectives and expertise.

Finally, the students took a moment to reflect on the mounting crises of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Their speeches called for solidarity, support and mobilization against injustices in Gaza—a powerful way to conclude their academic journey.

1...636465...858Page 64 of 858