Thousands of protestors gathered today in Rome, demanding to throw Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi out of Parliament. There will be a vote on Tuesday to decide whether or not he will be forced to resign or allowed to stay in his position. He is currently under investigation because he has been accused of being involved with a 17yr old girl and of buying votes. Even with all of the accusations, Berlusconi feels confident that he will have enough winning votes.
I personally haven't followed the Italian news enough to tell whether or not he is guilty of the crimes he is accused of. If he is found guilty of corruption, I believe he should be forced out of office. How can the people trust their leader to do the right thing, if he breaks the law himself?
I read up on the story you have posted. I am not sure that he is guilty or not as well. But I can say no matter the country, there seems to always be alot of scandal in politics! Bill Cliton is a great American example of scandel in politics. He took full advantage of his presidency, and still found a way to stay in office. I believe he was a good president and help America in many ways, not given it's current status. Even if this guy did the crimes they accuse him of, even if he admitted to doing them, previous history and politics tells us generally he'll still land on his feet anyway!
North Korea is ready for all out war against South Korea. North Korea claims that the South Korean's along with the U.S. are trying to persue a "Policy of Hostility and Confrontation" on North Korea. North Korean offical ,Pak Ui Chun was sent to Russia on talks. He claimed that North Korea needs it's "nuclear progams" to fend them off. North Korea's Army and it's people are ready for "escalated war" and "all out war". They have also quoted them as saying, "They are convienced they made the right choice in strengthing their defences with nuclear deterants", They were also Quoted as saying, " They will deal meriless retaliatory blows at the provocateurs and agressors, and blow up their citadels and bases". President Obama and South Korean counterpart, Lee Myung-bak agreed to hold more joint military exercises in responce to North Korea's artillery attack on South Korea. Government officals from China, New Mexico and other Countries have been holding Peace talks with North Korea. They are trying to urge them to co-exsist peacefully and in the end find reunification.
When I left class on Saturday I had my radio on in the car on star 104 heard the end of the news but I heard something about how parts of Europe had a snowstorm! Which rather cool to hear, and how I guess the guy who was on the radio saying this said something to the effect of "hey Erie lets start a blog and give tips on how to handle snowstorms"
Thousands of protesters gathered in the Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky city square chanting "give us our time back". Russia recently went from 11 to 9 different time zones. As part of the reform, five Russian regions did not set their clocks back an hour forward during daylight savings time. The consumption of electric energy has increased significantly throughout the change, which is the main reason people are protesting. The president of Russia has called upon officials to study and finalize if daylight savings time can be abolished by early 2011.
I would like to comment on Krystal's blog. I would say that I agree with her because if he is found guilty then how can you trust someone who is a leader that doesn't follow the rules? If found guilty something should be done about it. I also think that he should forced out of Parliament.
I am interested to see how Berlusconi makes out tomorrow when the parliament votes. I agree with Krystal that people might find it hard to trust Berlusconi because of the accused corruption but feel that his relationship with a 17 year old might not make that much difference. I am not familiar with Italy's moral values, but if they are anything near the United States', people will disregard these accusations just as most people did with Bill Clinton. I'll be tuning in tomorrow to see what happens.
CNN World reports that in Bosnia and Herzegovina 30 people were arrested (including police and officials) on charges of corruption. The story indicates that these areas were among the poorest in the former Yugoslav Federation and remain one of the poorest countries in Europe. The EU feels the corruption is affecting the ability of this country to develop. In order for Bosnia and Herzegovina to move forward, I think they need leaders who won't let greed take over. They need to put money back into the system. I feel sorry for the people as they continue to suffer.
CNBC.COM 12/12/2010 Swedish police: Explosions were terrorism
Officials stated Sunday that in Central Stockholm a terrorist tried to attack a busy shopping center/street. The terrorist sent an e-mail to a Swedish news agency TT and also to the Swedish police claiming that he went to the Middle East for jihad. He also claimed that Sweden was disregarding the Muslim faith by printing a cartoon depiction of Muhammad as a dog in Afghanistan presence. This man had explosive devices strapped to his body and in a car located by a pedestrian only shopping center. The car explosion was filled with gas canisters. Fortunately, only two bystanders were slightly injured, however if done properly this attack could have been catastrophic. Sweden, unlike other countries in Europe, has not been a target for terrorism. Terrorism seems to keep spreading. Even though the U.S. and other countries are trying to minimize this very unstable situation, there will always be extremists amongst us. Just like our conversation in class on genocide, this type of terrorism is hard to ignore. The question is why are the United Nations not banning together to protect civilization as a whole? Americans to Europeans and beyond are being targeted by terrorism. Speaking of our discussion of genocide and “taking things for granted” could you imagine what America would be like if every time a newspaper printed an un-tasteful political cartoon we would have to worry about being attacked?
Monday in Paris, France, 20 students age 4-6 and a teacher were held hostage in their classroom around 8:30 AM. A 17 year old male who was founded to be suicidal was in search for a weapon which is why he held this classroom hostage. Several parents were concerned, but also confident in their children's teacher. The teacher was very calm, and kept the children safe. The local officials did not enter the building while the hostage was occurring, but the male was arrested afterward. The children and teacher were all released safely later on Monday.
I would like to comment on Kristen's post on the terrorist attack. Terrorism is becoming a great concern to all the worlds societies. But I can't help to think, that some of these acts are atributed to the words and actions of our irresponsible journalist's, as well as the un-exceptence or lack of respect for one another in today's society. I do not agree with this mans actions nor his reasons for what he attempted to do. I do not belive that the man had even truely studied jihad because the true meaning behind jihad in basic is to fight off aggression and to have acceptence, even if they don't agree.I can explain jihad more to give you a better understanding the word jihad itself means :excertion in the path of god, it's outward aspect means to be defensive not aggressive and inward means: to battle negitive tendencies within the soul tendencies that prevent them from living a life of sactity and reaching the perfection god has ment for us. As far as what I have learned so far in my ,religous course, the jihad are not taught to do these types of acts nor any other crimes. People that claim their actions on, defence of their religion, need to be looked at more deeply. Personally after reading this story I refrenced it to Genocide, I had gotten the sense that this man committed this crime out of an uniformed understanding of Genocide, to rid the world or countries that do not share the same relgious views. But because of the stipulations on the acts within Genocide, they call it terrorism. As far as the "un-tasteful" picture of Muhammad, I personally feel that it was more than that. It was a great sign of dis-respect to the Islamic Religion and it's community. It was a blaten "hait crime" committed by the person who drew the picture, journalists that approved it to print and the paper that publised it for the "whole" world to see. It was truly a wake up call on the way we view things in society they are just to blame for the act's that had taken place. Ask yourself this; If it was some one you love in that picture how would you feel? Not saying that the man had any more right to committe act of terrorism, but more a question on; Does the world abide to civil moral respect anymore?
MSNBC.com 12/14/10 6 people are being charged for helping two serbian war crime suspects. These suspects: Ratko Mladic and police cheif Stojan Zupljanin hide throughout Russia. This was accomplished by attaining false ID and Documents. Zupljanin is charged of running concentration camps where thousands of non-serbs were killed. Like many instances of genocide the Belgrade court says they don't have enough evidence to support the charges. Russia has become a haven for those that need to hide from the prosecution of the war crimes they committed.
As we spoke and saw in last weeks class; there is still genocide going on in the world and it is under almost like a secret veil. How can other human beings that have the power not stop these acts. If the law isn't strong enough change it. Those that have the power hide behind ignorance of the laws and do nothing. Those that are doing the killing hide in the fact that they kill in the name of justice or a belief of what makes a better world.
Interesting posts on European/Russian "issues"--Some very thought provoking events/commentary as well as connecttions to the past class. Do you think all areas of the globe offer similar news events, or do you notice unique things happening in Europe/Russia?
Sorry for the long post, I had put it as two but posted as one. To Mrs. Nelson's questions. These events are happening all around the world. People seem to be commiting more crimes against humanity on a regular basis. Most of these un-stable people tend to target places, like schools with innocent children involved, as almost a barging tool, for there message to be heard. These act's are happening in all countries, due to the many changes that they have all been making, because of the current financial straingts. These act's of violence are ment as a cry for help, to try to bring positive change. Although it does seem to occur more over sea's than in the U.S.. It is also hightend from the war in the Middle East and the possability of one in Korea. This is our government's ways of trying to protect it's status and stregth through touch economic times. Although these changes can have severe repercutions on the people who live there.
I agree with Bethany. Similar events are happening all across the globe. The attacks seem to be in major areas so that they get more publicity and effect more people. It's unfortunate that these things happen but we can only do so much to prevent it. I think that no matter what we do, terrorist attacks will always occur in the world. Our unstable economy, continuous downward spiral in moral values and disrespect for others, plays a huge part in the chaos. I also don't think that people are as afraid of the repercussions they may face after commiting such a violent act. I just hope they don't become more frequent in the US.
Well Berlusconi won by 3 votes and there were many people who were not happy about it. It appears that he was caught with his hand in the cookie jar but nothing happened. People across the glob are getting tired of politicians are getting away with unacceptable behavior. I don't know if Berlusconi is guilty or not. But if does buy votes (as accused) it should not have been a suprise that he won AGAIN!!!!
Another very interesting story was about the counterfeit Faberge eggs. The 354 eggs were discovered when the head of customs wanted to look at the famous eggs. He said when he saw them he knew they were not the real thing even though they had the imperial crown of Russia stamped on the box. I believe it was the quantity (354) that alerted these were not the real deals since there are only 42 originals in the world today. My concern is what is the difference between these 'counterfeit eggs' and what us americans call 'knock off' Coach, Louis Vuitton, Baby Phat, handbags, shoes, and accessories. How do these items make it through customs; 1 item at a time?
A comment about the topic of genocide; From the "Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide" which was "Adopted by Resolution 260 (III) A of the United Nations General Assembly on 9 December 1948." Article 2 In the present Convention, genocide means any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such:
(a) Killing members of the group; (b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group; (c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; (d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group; (e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.
The key word is 'INTENT' without intent, the U.N. does not reconize the act as genocide.
Council of Europe report alleges Hashim Thaci headed a crime ring that smuggled drugs, weapons and human organs.Hashim Thaci, Kosovo's prime minister, headed up a "mafia like" crime ring responsible for smuggling weapons, drugs and human organs, a Council of Europe report alleges.The draft report, which follows a two-year investigation, says civilians detained by the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) were shot dead in northern Albania for their kidneys, which were then sold on the black market.The Kosovo government on Wednesday denounced the report, which does not name its sources or give the number of victims, as baseless and slanderous, threatening legal and political action.Its release comes as Thaci, a former key leader in the KLA, tries to form a coalition government after claiming victory in last week's election. The draft, written by Dick Marty, Swiss Council of Europe deputy, said there was substantial evidence that Serbians and some Albanian Kosovars had been secretly imprisoned by the KLA in northern Albania during the 1998-99 conflict "and were subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment, before ultimately disappearing".It said in the wake of the Kosovo war, before international forces had time to re-establish law and order there, "organs were removed from some prisoners at a clinic in Albanian territory, near Fushe-Kruje...".
European values: liberty or tyranny: Are the rise of right-wing parties and the increasing crackdowns on immigrants antithetical to European values?In recent months, Europe has witnessed mass deportations and crackdowns on religious and ethnic minorities. With the burka ban in France and parts of Italy, the anti-Roma movements in France and Hungary and police surveillance cameras set up in predominately Muslim neighbourhoods in the UK, the continent seems to be experiencing a shift in ideology that is centred less on notions of liberty and inclusion and more on protectionism and exclusion.European elections have yielded wins for right-wing parties in country after country - think Holland, Hungary, Sweden and the UK, where the Conservatives' failure to secure a solid majority is seen as a result of gains for the anti-immigrant UK Independence Party and the British National Party. This swing to the right tends to sprout with grassroots community movements, frequently presented as protecting European values, or protecting Europe from the threat of cultural demise, Sharia, criminal immigrants and so on. But what, exactly, are European values, and is limiting certain freedoms and resorting to a nearly granular social control the best way to protect them?To the outsider, European values may appear to rely on human rights rather than religious doctrines as a guiding principle, or they may be perceived as values based on Christianity. When Ban Ki-moon, the UN secretary-general, warned the European parliament against the "new politics of polarisation", he was specifically concerned with intolerance towards Muslim immigrants. "Some play on people's fears. They seek to invoke liberal values for illiberal causes. They accuse immigrants of violating European values," he said in October.
Wow. We responding to one aother, expressing an array of events, and really raising some pretty intense topics! I am especially pleased with those who visit often and read/comment to others:)
I agree with Krystal’s post as well as Bathanymacry response. We can all agree on the fact that violators of the law should be put on trail and be convicted accordingly. I am not sure which violation or allegation is worse. Now please do not take this the wrong way. But I think that the accusation of buying votes is more of a serious crime than having a relationship with a seventeen year old. I say this because in many counties it is not out of the norm for men to date or even marry younger partners. But if it is a crime in jurisdiction where he committed this act he should be prosecuted rightfully. Now as for the accusation of buying votes, I believe that is the worst crime at hand. If in fact it is true, then he should get charged and have the right to a speedy fair trial. In my eyes public trust is very important especially if one is elected through a democratic process were the people feel that their voice is what counts. And by buying voted he has betrayed the public from their constitutional rights.
I would like to add a few things on Caria’s comments on Genocide. There are for component threads of genocide. All for of these things achieve the goal of dehumanization. 1. History of violence 2. A culture in crisis 3. The rise of nationalism 4. Lack of democracy We see these four components in all of the cases where genocide has accrued. Another very important thing to keep in mind is that with all of these actions of genocide we see the following: 1. A perpetrator 2. victim group 3. intent 4. results An example of this is the Ukraine famine 1.perpetrator ( Stalin) 2.Victims ( Kulaks) 3.Intent – to control them and to terrorize them into submission. And use them for and their land for farming to reach the Stalin’s quotas, 4.Result- Five to seven million dead. The Ukrainians were almost wiped out as a culture and people. The outcome was the Non- aggression pact.
Lastly I would like to add to Bethanymarcy’s comment on North and South Korea. It was the North that attacked south and few of its Islands I believe. This was one of the topics for my world politics class. This attack came at a time that the North is changing its leadership. The current dictator is passing the power down to his son. But more importantly it is said that the North is running short on food and other supplies that they want from the South. We have seen tension between the two countries in the past. Scholars predict that the North with its advance military power is waiting to surprise attack the South in a very economically devastating way. There are interested in investments from the South as well as other material goods. As for when the North will attack.... i guess time will tell.
Earlier this week in Athens, Greece huge crowds of protesters, upset about stringent Greek economic reforms, marched past the Greek Parliament in Athens Wednesday as police in white helmets tried to keep them from getting any closer. Most protesters were peaceful, and just protested. Although, some threw cocktails at cars and created more of a scene. Many of peoplie living in Athens are unhappy about the reforms because Parliament adopted a law Tuesday diminishing the power of collective labor agreements, making it easier for employers to fire people. It also says hundreds of thousands of employees in the civil sector will be getting a pay cut of 10%. There is a Blackout set later in the week along with other strikes.
I would like to add a few things to Rosemary's post on Greek strikers. As the protesters are getting more angry they started fires and and threw petrol bomb. At least 10 people had been detained and three had been injured, as well as, the former conservative minister, Kostis Hatzidakis, had blood pouring from his head. This problem became a world issue due to the economic downturn, causing many people to be unemployed. The government and protesters should be more open and listen to one another. The government should conduct a meeting with the head of the protesters to discuss the problem and to find the best outcome for both to agree on and prevent anymore injuries that may occur.
I'd like to comment on the friction that is occurring between Iceland and much of the E.U. Large schools of mackerel have swam into water that Iceland fishes,raising the amount of fish Iceland catches to 130,000 tons instead of the 2,000 tons they normally catch. There are calls for E.U. ports to not accept fishing boats from Iceland. The big problem seems to stem from the fact that Iceland has a low population (which seems to equate to low status and power in the E.U.), and they are catching more fish than more populous nations such as Ireland, Scotland, and Norway.
On Wednesday in Moscow there was a riot between two different ethnic groups, the ethnic Russians and members of Caucasus ethnic groups. There was some 3000 police officers dispatched to prevent out breaks but there were some minor brawls. The police did manage to arrest some 200 people and sized many nonlethal weapons likes knives and pepper spray. The majority of the arrests were from the North Caucasus police had mentioned and were also checking papers to help prevent further fighting in the area.
Turkey is becoming a booming border town for their imports and exports. Exports have been taking over the industrial world with the billions of dollars worth of machine made carpets. Gaziantep is becoming one of the luckiest cities because of its geopolitical position and also by being known as a border city, industrial city and a trade city. Along with the carpet some workshops still weave hand-made kilim rugs. They also send silk wedding dresses to Paris, France and shoes to Italy and now trying the sweet stuff like baklava and chocolate to Switzerland. Tourist from Syria has been coming in full force to this city since the visa restrictions have been lifted.
I agree with Carla. Although he won another election I also believe that it was unfair. If what he was accused for actually took place I believe that people would be more upset and try to get him out of office. This issue takes place in many other places and it should be dealt with in a proper manner, not ignored.
I would like to comment about the greed and corruption that seems to be taking place in many places throughout Europe. It is sad to say but this is the way life has always been in most of these countries. This is the way these countries run, conduct business, and write policy. If we even take a look into our own country, we have politicians that are no longer looking at the broad spectrum of their works but a small portion of "whats in it for them" I don't believe in politics anymore; over the years i have come to realize that anyone in "politics" lies to get in or becomes influenced to go against their own personal morals and ethics. I can't see a real resolution to all the money problems throughout the world at this point, economies have crossed that line of no return with every country having high debt and no means to reverse it, everything will stay as is or get worse. By getting worse i mean with the greed and corruption still taking place everywhere, there will be a new scheme i'm sure. Enron, Worldcom, Housing and banking greed as some examples were minute in scale as is yet to come i'm sure.
I have been noticing that many of the articles that we, as a class, have been finding seem to be negative. I have found one that is a bit more uplifting. Photographer David Bailey is known for capturing models and haute couture. He recently did a peice where he photographed soilders. The images are published in a book entitled "Heroes," sales of which will benefit Help for Heroes, a British charity supporting wounded servicemen and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. I found this on cnn.com
I would just like to make a comment on all the articles as a whole. Whether the article is positive or negative (more so negative because negativity is more captivating), there seems to be a lot of similar issues happening across the world. These issues or actions don’t happen at the same time for everyone but eventually they happen everywhere. Terrorism, corruption, economic struggles and political sex scandals are things that happen in the United States and worldwide. I don’t want to say that it’s comforting knowing that everyone experiences struggles amongst each other, however it is interesting to know that at some point we can say on some level we all can relate to one another.
In reading the classes posts I was very intreged. I have a lot to respond to. First I definitely agree with Rosemary, every post had to do with something bad and corrupt. Thats exactly why I never watch the news because the moto is "If it bleeds it leads," and all you hear about is the negative happening around the world. They never want to mention any of the good people do. Then I want to comment on the multiple posts about Berlusconi's case. I agree that something should be done. The reality of it though is that nothing will change. I agree with Michelle when she said corruption will just keep getting worse. In another class we were discussing the decision recently by the courts to allow politicians to get any donation of money from businesses for campaigning and how this will cause major problems. Even though their arguement why they decided this was that it will allow us to think more for ourselves I believe it's quite the opposite. This will cause more bashing campaign commercials telling us what to think. It will also cause the politicians to make unbias decisions when the companies that gave them millions are involved and have their side on a matter. Last thing I'd like to comment on is Carla's post on counterfeit Faberge eggs. I am very interested to find out what the heck they are!
A fight in Ukraine's parliament Thursday left opposition lawmakers bloodied and bruised after they protested against the opening of a criminal case against their leader, former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko.
Human human rights investigator is calling for a look into the allegations that guirilla fighters from Kosvo were killing people in order to sell their organs to the black market.
I thought the story about the guirilla fighters killing innocent people for their organs was pretty shocking. I mean, its probably common throughtout the world, but us, as Americans, are't used to these types of evil acts. I wonder how many innocent men, women, and children had their lives taken from them so someone could profit off their organs...crazy
I saw this on the news last night, but could not find much on the internet about it. http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7156111n Hopefully that worked? They found the skull of one of France's Kings Henry the IV. He was found in the attic of someones house and there was little evidence to go on, but it was determind that it was, in fact Henry the IV.
I'm sorry there is alot of interesting information found, if you put the right words in the search bar!!! hahaha Henry IV was assassinated in 1610 and because of the chaos of the French Revolution it was presumed that the remains were lost. http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,6346430,00.html
Belfast, Northern Ireland a 22 year old man was due to have a court hearing on Friday because of his attack on the Strand Road Police Station in Londonderry with a 200 pound bomb. The man faces 6 different charges and damaged surrounding building.
I completely agree with Rosemary about the negative trend in this blog (hey it's what makes major headlines!) ...however on a happy note, Prince William (U.K.) is getting married!!!! :) ...to the one and only Miss. Kate Middleton. The two met as students at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland in 2002. The British public seems to agree on this royal match with more than three-quarters of those surveyed believing it will be good for the monarchy. The Prince who is second in line to the British throne gave Middleton his mother's engagement ring (the late Princess Diana) as his way of keeping her close to it all.
In Belarus there is a lot of tension about the upcoming election. The form of government there is similar to the former Soviet Union, of which Belarus was a member (Chernobyl is in Belarus). The government employs 80% of the population, and between close ties to Russia, and trade deals with China the current president Aleksander Lukashenko has managed to stay in power for 16 years. There seems to be a swing between the younger citizens who want change, and older citizens who would rather maintain the course. I guess that it does not matter what the country, there is a belief in the old saying. "The devil you know is better than the one you don't."
I would like to comment on Dan's post about the guirilla fighters killing innocent people for their organs. I would agree that as Americans we are not use to this. I would have to say though we are not use to it because it happens in a different way that we are. Why are we scared to be organ donors? We assume that doctors would not give us the care that might save our lives. There are cases about doctors that needed to get ahead by having the most successful transplants and suppling the most organs to other doctors they have killed or failed to properly treat their organ donor patients. Not to make anyone scared to be one now, I'm an organ donor!
In Ravenna Italy about 1,000 Turtle Doves fell dead from the sky. The birds were found with mysterious blue coloring on or their beaks which indicate the birds died from poisioning or hypoxia(lack of oxygen)which can confuse the animals. Most of the birds were found in industrial areas and others in wooded areas or in the middle of streets so it is hard to tell if the birds were suffocated from pollution or if they were indeed poisioned by something else. The test results should be available sometime next week.Similar cases have been reported through out the globe. Not only have birds been falling from the sky, fish have been washing up along many coast lines. What could be the cause? Is it a simple (or not so simple)case of poisioning? Or could it indeed be the beginning of the end of life on Earth?.
Thousands of protestors gathered today in Rome, demanding to throw Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi out of Parliament. There will be a vote on Tuesday to decide whether or not he will be forced to resign or allowed to stay in his position. He is currently under investigation because he has been accused of being involved with a 17yr old girl and of buying votes. Even with all of the accusations, Berlusconi feels confident that he will have enough winning votes.
ReplyDeleteI personally haven't followed the Italian news enough to tell whether or not he is guilty of the crimes he is accused of. If he is found guilty of corruption, I believe he should be forced out of office. How can the people trust their leader to do the right thing, if he breaks the law himself?
I read up on the story you have posted. I am not sure that he is guilty or not as well. But I can say no matter the country, there seems to always be alot of scandal in politics! Bill Cliton is a great American example of scandel in politics. He took full advantage of his presidency, and still found a way to stay in office. I believe he was a good president and help America in many ways, not given it's current status. Even if this guy did the crimes they accuse him of, even if he admitted to doing them, previous history and politics tells us generally he'll still land on his feet anyway!
ReplyDeleteNorth Korea is ready for all out war against South Korea. North Korea claims that the South Korean's along with the U.S. are trying to persue a "Policy of Hostility and Confrontation" on North Korea. North Korean offical ,Pak Ui Chun was sent to Russia on talks. He claimed that North Korea needs it's "nuclear progams" to fend them off. North Korea's Army and it's people are ready for "escalated war" and "all out war". They have also quoted them as saying, "They are convienced they made the right choice in strengthing their defences with nuclear deterants", They were also Quoted as saying, " They will deal meriless retaliatory blows at the provocateurs and agressors, and blow up their citadels and bases". President Obama and South Korean counterpart, Lee Myung-bak agreed to hold more joint military exercises in responce to North Korea's artillery attack on South Korea. Government officals from China, New Mexico and other Countries have been holding Peace talks with North Korea. They are trying to urge them to co-exsist peacefully and in the end find reunification.
ReplyDeleteWhen I left class on Saturday I had my radio on in the car on star 104 heard the end of the news but I heard something about how parts of Europe had a snowstorm! Which rather cool to hear, and how I guess the guy who was on the radio saying this said something to the effect of "hey Erie lets start a blog and give tips on how to handle snowstorms"
ReplyDeleteThousands of protesters gathered in the Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky city square chanting "give us our time back". Russia recently went from 11 to 9 different time zones. As part of the reform, five Russian regions did not set their clocks back an hour forward during daylight savings time. The consumption of electric energy has increased significantly throughout the change, which is the main reason people are protesting. The president of Russia has called upon officials to study and finalize if daylight savings time can be abolished by early 2011.
ReplyDeleteI would like to comment on Krystal's blog. I would say that I agree with her because if he is found guilty then how can you trust someone who is a leader that doesn't follow the rules? If found guilty something should be done about it. I also think that he should forced out of Parliament.
ReplyDeleteI am interested to see how Berlusconi makes out tomorrow when the parliament votes. I agree with Krystal that people might find it hard to trust Berlusconi because of the accused corruption but feel that his relationship with a 17 year old might not make that much difference. I am not familiar with Italy's moral values, but if they are anything near the United States', people will disregard these accusations just as most people did with Bill Clinton. I'll be tuning in tomorrow to see what happens.
ReplyDeleteCNN World reports that in Bosnia and Herzegovina 30 people were arrested (including police and officials) on charges of corruption. The story indicates that these areas were among the poorest in the former Yugoslav Federation and remain one of the poorest countries in Europe. The EU feels the corruption is affecting the ability of this country to develop. In order for Bosnia and Herzegovina to move forward, I think they need leaders who won't let greed take over. They need to put money back into the system. I feel sorry for the people as they continue to suffer.
ReplyDeleteCNBC.COM 12/12/2010
ReplyDeleteSwedish police: Explosions were terrorism
Officials stated Sunday that in Central Stockholm a terrorist tried to attack a busy shopping center/street. The terrorist sent an e-mail to a Swedish news agency TT and also to the Swedish police claiming that he went to the Middle East for jihad. He also claimed that Sweden was disregarding the Muslim faith by printing a cartoon depiction of Muhammad as a dog in Afghanistan presence. This man had explosive devices strapped to his body and in a car located by a pedestrian only shopping center. The car explosion was filled with gas canisters. Fortunately, only two bystanders were slightly injured, however if done properly this attack could have been catastrophic. Sweden, unlike other countries in Europe, has not been a target for terrorism. Terrorism seems to keep spreading. Even though the U.S. and other countries are trying to minimize this very unstable situation, there will always be extremists amongst us. Just like our conversation in class on genocide, this type of terrorism is hard to ignore. The question is why are the United Nations not banning together to protect civilization as a whole? Americans to Europeans and beyond are being targeted by terrorism. Speaking of our discussion of genocide and “taking things for granted” could you imagine what America would be like if every time a newspaper printed an un-tasteful political cartoon we would have to worry about being attacked?
Monday in Paris, France, 20 students age 4-6 and a teacher were held hostage in their classroom around 8:30 AM. A 17 year old male who was founded to be suicidal was in search for a weapon which is why he held this classroom hostage. Several parents were concerned, but also confident in their children's teacher. The teacher was very calm, and kept the children safe. The local officials did not enter the building while the hostage was occurring, but the male was arrested afterward. The children and teacher were all released safely later on Monday.
ReplyDeleteI would like to comment on Kristen's post on the terrorist attack. Terrorism is becoming a great concern to all the worlds societies. But I can't help to think, that some of these acts are atributed to the words and actions of our irresponsible journalist's, as well as the un-exceptence or lack of respect for one another in today's society. I do not agree with this mans actions nor his reasons for what he attempted to do. I do not belive that the man had even truely studied jihad because the true meaning behind jihad in basic is to fight off aggression and to have acceptence, even if they don't agree.I can explain jihad more to give you a better understanding the word jihad itself means :excertion in the path of god, it's outward aspect means to be defensive not aggressive and inward means: to battle negitive tendencies within the soul tendencies that prevent them from living a life of sactity and reaching the perfection god has ment for us. As far as what I have learned so far in my ,religous course, the jihad are not taught to do these types of acts nor any other crimes. People that claim their actions on, defence of their religion, need to be looked at more deeply. Personally after reading this story I refrenced it to Genocide, I had gotten the sense that this man committed this crime out of an uniformed understanding of Genocide, to rid the world or countries that do not share the same relgious views. But because of the stipulations on the acts within Genocide, they call it terrorism. As far as the "un-tasteful" picture of Muhammad, I personally feel that it was more than that. It was a great sign of dis-respect to the Islamic Religion and it's community. It was a blaten "hait crime" committed by the person who drew the picture, journalists that approved it to print and the paper that publised it for the "whole" world to see. It was truly a wake up call on the way we view things in society they are just to blame for the act's that had taken place. Ask yourself this; If it was some one you love in that picture how would you feel? Not saying that the man had any more right to committe act of terrorism, but more a question on; Does the world abide to civil moral respect anymore?
ReplyDeleteMSNBC.com 12/14/10
ReplyDelete6 people are being charged for helping two serbian war crime suspects. These suspects: Ratko Mladic and police cheif Stojan Zupljanin hide throughout Russia. This was accomplished by attaining false ID and Documents. Zupljanin is charged of running concentration camps where thousands of non-serbs were killed. Like many instances of genocide the Belgrade court says they don't have enough evidence to support the charges. Russia has become a haven for those that need to hide from the prosecution of the war crimes they committed.
As we spoke and saw in last weeks class; there is still genocide going on in the world and it is under almost like a secret veil. How can other human beings that have the power not stop these acts. If the law isn't strong enough change it. Those that have the power hide behind ignorance of the laws and do nothing. Those that are doing the killing hide in the fact that they kill in the name of justice or a belief of what makes a better world.
Interesting posts on European/Russian "issues"--Some very thought provoking events/commentary as well as connecttions to the past class. Do you think all areas of the globe offer similar news events, or do you notice unique things happening in Europe/Russia?
ReplyDeleteSorry for the long post, I had put it as two but posted as one. To Mrs. Nelson's questions. These events are happening all around the world. People seem to be commiting more crimes against humanity on a regular basis. Most of these un-stable people tend to target places, like schools with innocent children involved, as almost a barging tool, for there message to be heard. These act's are happening in all countries, due to the many changes that they have all been making, because of the current financial straingts. These act's of violence are ment as a cry for help, to try to bring positive change. Although it does seem to occur more over sea's than in the U.S.. It is also hightend from the war in the Middle East and the possability of one in Korea. This is our government's ways of trying to protect it's status and stregth through touch economic times. Although these changes can have severe repercutions on the people who live there.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Bethany. Similar events are happening all across the globe. The attacks seem to be in major areas so that they get more publicity and effect more people. It's unfortunate that these things happen but we can only do so much to prevent it. I think that no matter what we do, terrorist attacks will always occur in the world. Our unstable economy, continuous downward spiral in moral values and disrespect for others, plays a huge part in the chaos. I also don't think that people are as afraid of the repercussions they may face after commiting such a violent act. I just hope they don't become more frequent in the US.
ReplyDeleteWell Berlusconi won by 3 votes and there were many people who were not happy about it. It appears that he was caught with his hand in the cookie jar but nothing happened. People across the glob are getting tired of politicians are getting away with unacceptable behavior. I don't know if Berlusconi is guilty or not. But if does buy votes (as accused) it should not have been a suprise that he won AGAIN!!!!
ReplyDeleteAnother very interesting story was about the counterfeit Faberge eggs. The 354 eggs were discovered when the head of customs wanted to look at the famous eggs. He said when he saw them he knew they were not the real thing even though they had the imperial crown of Russia stamped on the box. I believe it was the quantity (354) that alerted these were not the real deals since there are only 42 originals in the world today. My concern is what is the difference between these 'counterfeit eggs' and what us americans call 'knock off' Coach, Louis Vuitton, Baby Phat, handbags, shoes, and accessories. How do these items make it through customs; 1 item at a time?
ReplyDeleteA comment about the topic of genocide; From the "Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide" which was "Adopted by Resolution 260 (III) A of the United Nations General Assembly on 9 December 1948."
ReplyDeleteArticle 2
In the present Convention, genocide means any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such:
(a) Killing members of the group;
(b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;
(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part;
(d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group;
(e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.
The key word is 'INTENT' without intent, the U.N. does not reconize the act as genocide.
Council of Europe report alleges Hashim Thaci headed a crime ring that smuggled drugs, weapons and human organs.Hashim Thaci, Kosovo's prime minister, headed up a "mafia like" crime ring responsible for smuggling weapons, drugs and human organs, a Council of Europe report alleges.The draft report, which follows a two-year investigation, says civilians detained by the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) were shot dead in northern Albania for their kidneys, which were then sold on the black market.The Kosovo government on Wednesday denounced the report, which does not name its sources or give the number of victims, as baseless and slanderous, threatening legal and political action.Its release comes as Thaci, a former key leader in the KLA, tries to form a coalition government after claiming victory in last week's election.
ReplyDeleteThe draft, written by Dick Marty, Swiss Council of Europe deputy, said there was substantial evidence that Serbians and some Albanian Kosovars had been secretly imprisoned by the KLA in northern Albania during the 1998-99 conflict "and were subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment, before ultimately disappearing".It said in the wake of the Kosovo war, before international forces had time to re-establish law and order there, "organs were removed from some prisoners at a clinic in Albanian territory, near Fushe-Kruje...".
European values: liberty or tyranny: Are the rise of right-wing parties and the increasing crackdowns on immigrants antithetical to European values?In recent months, Europe has witnessed mass deportations and crackdowns on religious and ethnic minorities. With the burka ban in France and parts of Italy, the anti-Roma movements in France and Hungary and police surveillance cameras set up in predominately Muslim neighbourhoods in the UK, the continent seems to be experiencing a shift in ideology that is centred less on notions of liberty and inclusion and more on protectionism and exclusion.European elections have yielded wins for right-wing parties in country after country - think Holland, Hungary, Sweden and the UK, where the Conservatives' failure to secure a solid majority is seen as a result of gains for the anti-immigrant UK Independence Party and the British National Party. This swing to the right tends to sprout with grassroots community movements, frequently presented as protecting European values, or protecting Europe from the threat of cultural demise, Sharia, criminal immigrants and so on. But what, exactly, are European values, and is limiting certain freedoms and resorting to a nearly granular social control the best way to protect them?To the outsider, European values may appear to rely on human rights rather than religious doctrines as a guiding principle, or they may be perceived as values based on Christianity.
ReplyDeleteWhen Ban Ki-moon, the UN secretary-general, warned the European parliament against the "new politics of polarisation", he was specifically concerned with intolerance towards Muslim immigrants. "Some play on people's fears. They seek to invoke liberal values for illiberal causes. They accuse immigrants of violating European values," he said in October.
Wow. We responding to one aother, expressing an array of events, and really raising some pretty intense topics! I am especially pleased with those who visit often and read/comment to others:)
ReplyDeleteI agree with Krystal’s post as well as Bathanymacry response. We can all agree on the fact that violators of the law should be put on trail and be convicted accordingly. I am not sure which violation or allegation is worse. Now please do not take this the wrong way. But I think that the accusation of buying votes is more of a serious crime than having a relationship with a seventeen year old. I say this because in many counties it is not out of the norm for men to date or even marry younger partners. But if it is a crime in jurisdiction where he committed this act he should be prosecuted rightfully. Now as for the accusation of buying votes, I believe that is the worst crime at hand. If in fact it is true, then he should get charged and have the right to a speedy fair trial. In my eyes public trust is very important especially if one is elected through a democratic process were the people feel that their voice is what counts. And by buying voted he has betrayed the public from their constitutional rights.
ReplyDeleteI would like to add a few things on Caria’s comments on Genocide. There are for component threads of genocide. All for of these things achieve the goal of dehumanization.
ReplyDelete1. History of violence
2. A culture in crisis
3. The rise of nationalism
4. Lack of democracy
We see these four components in all of the cases where genocide has accrued. Another very important thing to keep in mind is that with all of these actions of genocide we see the following:
1. A perpetrator
2. victim group
3. intent
4. results
An example of this is the Ukraine famine
1.perpetrator ( Stalin)
2.Victims ( Kulaks)
3.Intent – to control them and to terrorize them into submission. And use them for and their land for farming to reach the Stalin’s quotas,
4.Result- Five to seven million dead. The Ukrainians were almost wiped out as a culture and people. The outcome was the Non- aggression pact.
Lastly I would like to add to Bethanymarcy’s comment on North and South Korea. It was the North that attacked south and few of its Islands I believe. This was one of the topics for my world politics class. This attack came at a time that the North is changing its leadership. The current dictator is passing the power down to his son. But more importantly it is said that the North is running short on food and other supplies that they want from the South. We have seen tension between the two countries in the past. Scholars predict that the North with its advance military power is waiting to surprise attack the South in a very economically devastating way. There are interested in investments from the South as well as other material goods. As for when the North will attack.... i guess time will tell.
ReplyDeleteEarlier this week in Athens, Greece huge crowds of protesters, upset about stringent Greek economic reforms, marched past the Greek Parliament in Athens Wednesday as police in white helmets tried to keep them from getting any closer. Most protesters were peaceful, and just protested. Although, some threw cocktails at cars and created more of a scene. Many of peoplie living in Athens are unhappy about the reforms because Parliament adopted a law Tuesday diminishing the power of collective labor agreements, making it easier for employers to fire people. It also says hundreds of thousands of employees in the civil sector will be getting a pay cut of 10%. There is a Blackout set later in the week along with other strikes.
ReplyDeletecnn.com
I would like to add a few things to Rosemary's post on Greek strikers. As the protesters are getting more angry they started fires and and threw petrol bomb. At least 10 people had been detained and three had been injured, as well as, the former conservative minister, Kostis Hatzidakis, had blood pouring from his head. This problem became a world issue due to the economic downturn, causing many people to be unemployed. The government and protesters should be more open and listen to one another. The government should conduct a meeting with the head of the protesters to discuss the problem and to find the best outcome for both to agree on and prevent anymore injuries that may occur.
ReplyDeleteI'd like to comment on the friction that is occurring between Iceland and much of the E.U. Large schools of mackerel have swam into water that Iceland fishes,raising the amount of fish Iceland catches to 130,000 tons instead of the 2,000 tons they normally catch. There are calls for E.U. ports to not accept fishing boats from Iceland. The big problem seems to stem from the fact that Iceland has a low population (which seems to equate to low status and power in the E.U.), and they are catching more fish than more populous nations such as Ireland, Scotland, and Norway.
ReplyDeleteOn Wednesday in Moscow there was a riot between two different ethnic groups, the ethnic Russians and members of Caucasus ethnic groups. There was some 3000 police officers dispatched to prevent out breaks but there were some minor brawls. The police did manage to arrest some 200 people and sized many nonlethal weapons likes knives and pepper spray. The majority of the arrests were from the North Caucasus police had mentioned and were also checking papers to help prevent further fighting in the area.
ReplyDeletecnn.com 12/15/10
ReplyDeleteTurkey is becoming a booming border town for their imports and exports. Exports have been taking over the industrial world with the billions of dollars worth of machine made carpets. Gaziantep is becoming one of the luckiest cities because of its geopolitical position and also by being known as a border city, industrial city and a trade city. Along with the carpet some workshops still weave hand-made kilim rugs. They also send silk wedding dresses to Paris, France and shoes to Italy and now trying the sweet stuff like baklava and chocolate to Switzerland. Tourist from Syria has been coming in full force to this city since the visa restrictions have been lifted.
I agree with Carla. Although he won another election I also believe that it was unfair. If what he was accused for actually took place I believe that people would be more upset and try to get him out of office. This issue takes place in many other places and it should be dealt with in a proper manner, not ignored.
ReplyDeleteI would like to comment about the greed and corruption that seems to be taking place in many places throughout Europe. It is sad to say but this is the way life has always been in most of these countries. This is the way these countries run, conduct business, and write policy. If we even take a look into our own country, we have politicians that are no longer looking at the broad spectrum of their works but a small portion of "whats in it for them" I don't believe in politics anymore; over the years i have come to realize that anyone in "politics" lies to get in or becomes influenced to go against their own personal morals and ethics. I can't see a real resolution to all the money problems throughout the world at this point, economies have crossed that line of no return with every country having high debt and no means to reverse it, everything will stay as is or get worse. By getting worse i mean with the greed and corruption still taking place everywhere, there will be a new scheme i'm sure. Enron, Worldcom, Housing and banking greed as some examples were minute in scale as is yet to come i'm sure.
ReplyDeleteI have been noticing that many of the articles that we, as a class, have been finding seem to be negative. I have found one that is a bit more uplifting. Photographer David Bailey is known for capturing models and haute couture. He recently did a peice where he photographed soilders. The images are published in a book entitled "Heroes," sales of which will benefit Help for Heroes, a British charity supporting wounded servicemen and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. I found this on cnn.com
ReplyDeleteI would just like to make a comment on all the articles as a whole. Whether the article is positive or negative (more so negative because negativity is more captivating), there seems to be a lot of similar issues happening across the world. These issues or actions don’t happen at the same time for everyone but eventually they happen everywhere. Terrorism, corruption, economic struggles and political sex scandals are things that happen in the United States and worldwide. I don’t want to say that it’s comforting knowing that everyone experiences struggles amongst each other, however it is interesting to know that at some point we can say on some level we all can relate to one another.
ReplyDeleteIn reading the classes posts I was very intreged. I have a lot to respond to. First I definitely agree with Rosemary, every post had to do with something bad and corrupt. Thats exactly why I never watch the news because the moto is "If it bleeds it leads," and all you hear about is the negative happening around the world. They never want to mention any of the good people do.
ReplyDeleteThen I want to comment on the multiple posts about Berlusconi's case. I agree that something should be done. The reality of it though is that nothing will change. I agree with Michelle when she said corruption will just keep getting worse. In another class we were discussing the decision recently by the courts to allow politicians to get any donation of money from businesses for campaigning and how this will cause major problems. Even though their arguement why they decided this was that it will allow us to think more for ourselves I believe it's quite the opposite. This will cause more bashing campaign commercials telling us what to think. It will also cause the politicians to make unbias decisions when the companies that gave them millions are involved and have their side on a matter.
Last thing I'd like to comment on is Carla's post on counterfeit Faberge eggs. I am very interested to find out what the heck they are!
A fight in Ukraine's parliament Thursday left opposition lawmakers bloodied and bruised after they protested against the opening of a criminal case against their leader, former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHuman human rights investigator is calling for a look into the allegations that guirilla fighters from Kosvo were killing people in order to sell their organs to the black market.
ReplyDeletechecked at noon Friday 12/17/10
ReplyDeleteI'm reading an article in Friday's paper re: a suicide bomb in Stockholm, Sweden. Anyone else read about this event and want to supply details?
ReplyDeleteI thought the story about the guirilla fighters killing innocent people for their organs was pretty shocking. I mean, its probably common throughtout the world, but us, as Americans, are't used to these types of evil acts. I wonder how many innocent men, women, and children had their lives taken from them so someone could profit off their organs...crazy
ReplyDeleteI saw this on the news last night, but could not find much on the internet about it. http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7156111n
ReplyDeleteHopefully that worked? They found the skull of one of France's Kings Henry the IV. He was found in the attic of someones house and there was little evidence to go on, but it was determind that it was, in fact Henry the IV.
I'm sorry there is alot of interesting information found, if you put the right words in the search bar!!! hahaha Henry IV was assassinated in 1610 and because of the chaos of the French Revolution it was presumed that the remains were lost.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,6346430,00.html
Belfast, Northern Ireland a 22 year old man was due to have a court hearing on Friday because of his attack on the Strand Road Police Station in Londonderry with a 200 pound bomb. The man faces 6 different charges and damaged surrounding building.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with Rosemary about the negative trend in this blog (hey it's what makes major headlines!) ...however on a happy note, Prince William (U.K.) is getting married!!!! :)
ReplyDelete...to the one and only Miss. Kate Middleton.
The two met as students at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland in 2002. The British public seems to agree on this royal match with more than three-quarters of those surveyed believing it will be good for the monarchy.
The Prince who is second in line to the British throne gave Middleton his mother's engagement ring (the late Princess Diana) as his way of keeping her close to it all.
In Belarus there is a lot of tension about the upcoming election. The form of government there is similar to the former Soviet Union, of which Belarus was a member (Chernobyl is in Belarus). The government employs 80% of the population, and between close ties to Russia, and trade deals with China the current president Aleksander Lukashenko has managed to stay in power for 16 years. There seems to be a swing between the younger citizens who want change, and older citizens who would rather maintain the course. I guess that it does not matter what the country, there is a belief in the old saying. "The devil you know is better than the one you don't."
ReplyDeleteGot these checked and recorded:) 12/23/10
ReplyDeleteI would like to comment on Dan's post about the guirilla fighters killing innocent people for their organs. I would agree that as Americans we are not use to this. I would have to say though we are not use to it because it happens in a different way that we are. Why are we scared to be organ donors? We assume that doctors would not give us the care that might save our lives. There are cases about doctors that needed to get ahead by having the most successful transplants and suppling the most organs to other doctors they have killed or failed to properly treat their organ donor patients. Not to make anyone scared to be one now, I'm an organ donor!
ReplyDeleteIn Ravenna Italy about 1,000 Turtle Doves fell dead from the sky. The birds were found with mysterious blue coloring on or their beaks which indicate the birds died from poisioning or hypoxia(lack of oxygen)which can confuse the animals. Most of the birds were found in industrial areas and others in wooded areas or in the middle of streets so it is hard to tell if the birds were suffocated from pollution or if they were indeed poisioned by something else. The test results should be available sometime next week.Similar cases have been reported through out the globe. Not only have birds been falling from the sky, fish have been washing up along many coast lines. What could be the cause? Is it a simple (or not so simple)case of poisioning? Or could it indeed be the beginning of the end of life on Earth?.
ReplyDeleteGot these two comments.
ReplyDelete