Current events abound in this part of the world! Share contemporary events, provide your analysis and reactions, and raise questions. (TWO REQUIRED POSTS BY FRIDAY NOON 1/04/11).
MSNBC Reports that 2 men convicted in 2009, for filming footage of anti-government protests that had been occuring all over Iran. These protests occurred after Mahmond Ahmadinejad won the election which was believed to have been won through ballot fraud. They were also accused of visiting the groups base in Iraq for training. The two men were hung to death today after pleads from the U.S. and protesters went unheard as Irans court of appeals upheld the ruling. These men were killed for their freedom of speech not crimes against religion but simply freedom of speech. I can not imagine the pain those two men endored. I also think that they knew the risk and penelty involved when they began the crusaid to show Iran the truth. I think they must have felt it as a risk needed to be taken in order to help find change and bring freedom. As in Islam they are now jihad with innerpeace without hait may these men rest in peace and may more stand to allow freedom between government and their religion.
MSNBC Reports that a 26 year old male, Mumtaz Qadri was arrested and being held in a Pakistan prison. The confessed killer of Punjab Province Gov. Salman Taseer, claims he posed as his body-gaurd and then shot him. Qadri claims that he had to kill him because Taseer had critized Pakistani laws, that mandate death for insulting Islam. Tens of thousands of Pakistani supporters gathered outside of the prison cheering for Qadri and brought gifts. It is said that he is to be formally charged for this crime on February 1st. Here is another crime between government and religion. Although Islams religion and law all come from the same place. The Quran is their bible and their law gods law. It is how they punish all crimes. The punishment of these crimes are cast out from the Quran. By hanging, stoning, ext. The issues in Islamic belief is that the same punishments are ment for all crimes no matter the differance in severity. Although I won't be suprised that this man is set free on the 1st of February as he was only upholding the law which is allowed in their culture when it comes to a crime against Islam. It is sad to see that they do not see, that all crimes are not the same and it takes from the peoples freedom of speech, or all their rights as a person. They seek death to all that do crime against Quran. Although we seek the death penalty in murder cases there is a fair hearing and trial, Islamic religion and justice is based on an individuals choice to choose crime and punishment. Although this man killed he killed a man who commited crime aganist Islam and the man would have been put to death for this crime at court. They claim freedom of their people but this is clearly not the case. Islamic religion is a powerful way of life as they live their life through only the word of the Quran. As to both stories I posted these crimes and punish mets are upheld as Justice.
CNN International news reported that Algeria had a Rally for Culture and Democracy. There was not much said about the rally, but the government is giving the opposition group a hard time, and saying that they do not have any rights in their country. Unfortunately, the rally resulted in eleven individuals as well as two police men in serious condition. The entire cause of the rally was set up by the opposition group RCD, because they want their collective freedom back. Saadi, one of the leaders of the group spoke for the entire group and said that the group will not 'kneel' down to the Algerian government, until they see an improvement with the rights issue. Protests in Algeria have been breaking out left and right according to CNN news, the community has even caused an uproar about the price of foods in local grocery stores. The government is seeking additional options to cease these protests that are unauthorized.
According to CNN international news, a 25 year old married Pakistani mother has agreed to go against the norm and enroll in school. Her name is Rukhsana Batool, and she was encouraged to enroll in the elementary school by her two sons teacher, and her husband. Education was not something Rukhsana or several women in Pakistan had the advantage and opportunity of. Although Batool does not look like her fellow students in the first grade classroom, she loves it. She sits next to her 4 and 5 year old son everyday at school. She is enrolled in the first grade. Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in the world and education is not something that woman normally experience. Only 4 out of 10 women in Pakistan can read and write. Batool hopes that her enrollment in school will encourage other Pakistani women to enroll in an education. I found this interesting because we tend to take our education for granted, and underprivliged people would do almost anything to be learning and in a classroom.
CNN.com Reports That a audio tape with a voice claiming to be Osama Bin Laden warns France to pull out of Afghanistan. The taped message claimed that he had the two abducted journalists from 2009 and that their lives depended on Frances military role in Afghanistan. The voice on the audio tape threatens France that if they don't end their Alliance with the United States it will prove to be a costly decision. He then goes on to threaten Frances President that he will kill the two men when he is ready. France proclaims they will stand strong in their alliance with the United States in Afghanistan. I'd first like to say thank you to France and all troops fighting to keep all countries safe, even the people of Afghanistan that are truely seeking freedom. Although these two lives are worth more than their weight in gold they will not surrender for the holding of only two men. It is sad but easier to lose two lives than an entire city or nation to terrorist. Bin Laden has rained his terror and evil on all countries even his own for to long. It is time to seek and destroy evil with more than the human stregth. Prayers to aid our troops with the knowledge to track this monster and bring him to justice. As my other two posts depict some information into the Islamic Religion Osama Bin Ladens claims on are not of any definition depicted in the Quran. There are some to claim jihad as a reason or barganing to their crimes but again this word does not mean to cast the world with violance, as it means to fight the bad or negitive inside one's self to find their inner peace. This is clearly not the case with Bin Laden he in a sense is Commiting or planning to commit a sort of Genocidal acts although he has no true spacific nationality, color, culture, but a true hait crime against any and all who hold or want freedom and don't convey in his mind his government, punisment, and Religious views. This man reminds me of Hitler if this were then I am almost positive he would have caused greater devistation to the world. Again a great Love and Thank You to all TROOPS that keep all countries safe.
Today in Sudan, singers met with hope to ease the animosity in the region. With their peacful rhythms and contemporary hip-hop beats,the group of young rappers brought together poetic Arabic lyrics combined with Dinka, Nuer and English. The collaboration was originally brought on by Southern Sudan's vote on independence. Their painfull experiences and memories of war are reflected through their music, in an effort to spread the word on peace. Jal, who was a participant, initiated a global campaign with release of his new single "We Want Peace." Even though the separation of north and south Sudan is painful, he wants people to realize they are actually "one people."
What kind of a domino effect Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan and Libya will face by what is going on with Tunisian? Time to change those dictators, yes I say to those who is fighting for their better life in those countries, I don’t see how those rich countries making their people live in poverty. and what happen in Tunisia is a desperate act by a young unemployed man on 17 December triggered a much wider series of protests and clashes with the police. Mohamed Bouazizi set fire to himself when officials in his town prevented him from selling vegetables on the streets of Sidi Bouzid without permission. This set off protests about jobs in the town, which has an agriculture-based economy in one of the poorest regions of the country. These demonstrations then spread elsewhere, in a move the government said was being exploited by the opposition. But the violent response of the authorities - with the police opening fire on demonstrators - appears to have exacerbated anger and ignited further protests. The unrest is also widely seen as drawing on deep frustration with the ruling elite and the suppression of political freedoms. The clashes became much more deadly on the weekend of 8-9 January, and then spread to the capital Tunis. The government says 78 people have been killed in the protests. There is speculation about a possible domino effect similar to the collapse of Communist governments around Eastern Europe in 1989. In several countries of the Middle East and North Africa, youthful and rapidly growing populations face rising food prices, high unemployment and lack of political representation. Some are also ruled by aging autocrats facing succession issues. On the face of it, Egypt has many similarities with Tunisia - tough economic conditions, official corruption and little opportunity for its citizens to express their dissatisfaction with the political system. President Hosni Mubarak, 82, has an almost complete monopoly on power, has been in office for three decades and is seeking re-election this autumn. But Egyptians' deep frustration has not so far translated into large-scale protest, and political demonstrations are generally restricted to a few hundred people. A state of emergency has been in place in Algeria since 1992, and public demonstrations in the capital have been banned. There are regular impromptu protests elsewhere in the country, but in recent weeks these broke out simultaneously across Algeria for the first time, including in the capital, Algiers. There have been reports of self-immolations, too. Libyan leader Muammar Gadaffi's sharp reaction on Saturday to the overthrow of President Ben Ali would seem to reflect his own nervousness about a possible domino effect. Thousands staged protests across Jordan in a "day of rage" on Saturday in protest against rising food prices and unemployment. Some demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Samir Rifai. Like Tunisia, Morocco has been facing economic problems and allegations of corruption in ruling circles. Morocco's reputation was damaged after Wikileaks revealed allegations of increased corruption, in particular the royal family's business affairs and the "appalling greed" of people close to King Mohammed VI.but soon or later one of those countries will face the change.
This week in the New York Times, deadly attacks against religious pilgrims and members of Iraq’s security forces continued on Monday, including three car bombings around the city of Karbala, where as many as 10 million marchers are expected to travel in observance of one of the most sacred holidays on the Shiite Muslim calendar. Also, a roadside bomb in Baghdad’s Shula neighborhood wounded another five marchers. The attacks on pilgrims, which began with two nearly simultaneous blasts in the early morning hours, killed as many as 30 and wounded more than 100. The amount of casualites lost in these bombings keeps going up throughout the week. Officials say that they think Al Qaeda is working with the Baath. There have been attacks on many different people including lawmakers. It is a scary and unfortunate thing. When religion is targeted, it is considered martyrdom. I can only hope and pray that things get better for the people in Baghdad
Several dozen Palestinians confronted France’s foreign minister, as she entered Gaza from Israel on Friday, throwing eggs and shouting angry slogans at her armored motorcade over a comment falsely attributed to her about an Israeli soldier being held in captivity here since 2006. The minister, Michèle Alliot-Marie, had met in Jerusalem on Thursday with the parents of the abducted soldier, Staff Sgt. Gilad Shalit, after which a statement by Sergeant Shalit’s father accusing the captors of a war crime was misreported as hers. I thought it was intersting that they threw eggs, but in their culture, that might be a sign of hatred. Although the accusations were falsely portrayed, the throwing of the eggs can not be apologized for.
Just to comment on Rosemary about Iraq on going killing, this issue has long history since the death of Prophet Mohammed to this time as we see the attack against mostly Shia. Unfortunately some of the Sunni does not recognize the Shia as a Muslim. And here is the problem that give the extremist Muslims the justify to kill Shia whenever it is possible, this has long background event right after the death of the Prophet, Shia claim that Mohammed pinpoint his successors, but the Sunni don’t recognize that well known action called (Alghadeer), therefore Shia did not follow who ever came to lead Muslim nation after the absent of Prophet Mohammed, since then Sunni call Shia as the Rafadhi( mean the refuse of non Mohammed’s successors)
There have been many government issues around the world so far and the most recent is happening in Egypt. Thousands of Egyptian protestors gather around the heart of Cairo, which is the capital of Egypt to resist the government. The reason of this assemble was that the recent uprising in Tunisia has inspired the protestors. The demanding group requested to terminate President Hosni Mubarak’s authoritarian rule. As well as recall the government for solution to Egypt’s poverty, corruption and unemployment along with the police’s use of power. This assembles considered to be the biggest protest in Egypt causing Egyptian police to collide with the protestors. Police fired tear gas, rubber bullets, stone throwing and beat protestors to clear thousands of people from a central Cario square. As a result, there have been at least three deaths. Personally, I think what the police have done really made them not as much different from social evil doer that neglectful of a duty. Furthermore, the government blamed the violence on the banned Islamist movement. I strongly believe that violence is not the best solution. I really don’t understand why people not using reason to communicate and find solution that can be agreeable and that will improving Egyptian standard living rather than blaming or using violence. The best solution I can think of is to resign president Hosni Mubarak out of his position and have a new election. I think it is time to implement political, economic and social reforms to respond to the legitimate needs and interests of the Egyptian people.
CNN just reported that Egypt’s Mubarak dissolved his government and vowed to put a new government in place tomorrow. He announced that he wants to work for democracy and improved living conditions. I question if he really means what he said because it took all this violence to bring him to this point. In my opinion, a good leader understands the needs of his country and makes progressive decisions to move forward. By announcing a new government Mubarak gives SOME hope of change. Only time will tell what kind of government he put together. President Obama spoke with Mubarak after he announced he was dissolving the government. Obama told him to back up his words, that violence is not the answer. Hopefully Mubarak gets the message and opens up dialogue with his people. I must also add that the people need to stop the violence. The media seems to condemn the police for brutality. Their actions ARE wrong but so are the protestors. I think there is enough blame to go around for everyone to share.
Okay so instead about talking about news that isn't that happy I found some news that is on the happier side! I read today that in Africa Morocco will be in the 2015,2017 soccer events. They (Morocco) have not hosted it since 1988 and Africa since 1996. And Rwanda will host it in 2017. I just thought we should have something a little different. :)
I am sure that everyone has been following the tragedies that are occurring in Egypt. The people are upset and feed up with the president who has run his regime for more then 30 years. The Egypt president is supported by the United States as many of you all ready know. The whole country is rioting and lives are being lost. I read in the New York Times that over ten Police men were killed during these riots. Many other men and women of uniform took their uniforms of their backs and joined the protesters. The people are tried of this corrupt government that only peruses its own agenda. This problem has gathered the international community comes face to face on this issue in Egypt. I am sure it won’t be long before the people get the president to step down. The numbers in support of the president stepping down and ending this regime is overwhelming. I will try to stay up with the news and post more information as it is being release. Please if anyone knows more about this issue, go ahead and post it. It think it will be interesting to see where is ends up or how it’s resolved.
Egypt: Today (Jan 30), several countries including the U.S., advised their Nationals to leave Egypt. Fox News reported celebrities and businessmen were also leaving the country. Sixty-four private jets have flown out over the past two days. Friday’s stock markets took a big hit because of the unrest. This shows that the world is worried about the domino effect…the violent protests moving into other Middle East countries. Hilary Clinton said that the United States wants Mubarak to focus on a transition to a democratic government. If Mubarak steps down and one of the opposition groups takes power, this could have negative effects for the people and foreign relations. According to Clinton an organized transition to democracy is the best way to improve the standard of living for the Egyptians. This process needs to be done slowly so that the people can adjust and understand exactly what they will gain. I tend to agree with Clinton, once all the violence ends the individual in charge should work with foreign leaders to establish a government that meets the needs of the people. But, first the violence needs to end. How that will happen remains to be seen.
Egypt in Crisis I am watching CNN now and they are talking about how the government turned off the internet in Egypt. That is unreal, can you imagine if that happened in the U.S.? They are also encouraging people who are watching the news to go on Facebook and Twitter and post your opinion on what is going on in Egypt. So what they are saying is we have an opinion, but the people in Egypt do not? Protesters are entering their second week and are calling a “Million-Man Marches” the march could start in an hour from now and I hope the government sees that something needs done before it gets out of hand.. The government is now shutting down mobile phone network and train stations to stop the march. The US is calling for orderly transition and that Egypt must change. Egypt being the second largest city in Africa it has the possibility to make a stand and cause chaos. This will cause oil prices to go way up. I know as of yesterday 3 are dead from the protest and several inmates have escaped from prison. Egypt will never be the same after this.
To continue on with the domino effect.... I read an article on cnn.com 2/2/11 titled “The domino effect of Arab unrest”. This article is a continuation of the protest going on in Egypt. The article starts out with the witnessing of people power over political power. It continues on stating that over-population and corruption are the two biggest factors that most African, Middle East, and south Asia countries face today. The citizens of the country want the government to provide stable economic growth and to protect their welfare. As seen in Egypt these protestors want change. Egyptians wants to be liberated from autocrats and theocrats and transformed into a nation of democracy. The article goes on to show that this just may be the time for other countries to stand up for the same rights; as in the domino effect. Other article headings on cnn.com in the past few weeks read Jordan’s king dismisses government; Yemen president won’t seek re-election, Is Egypt following Tunisia. Domino effect; the headlines suggest that is what is going to happen. The world is being affected by these protests. This type of protesting is quite scary, several imagines include wounded citizens. As the protest continue; it will be interesting to see how the ending will emerge. Democracy or Repression? And will other countries continue to follow?
Did anyone see WJET channel 24 local news yesterday (February 1, 2011)? The government promised water wells to Africa since 1967 but never happened. People from Erie, Pa as a part of the Africa 6000 were able to drill seven water wells. The government couldn’t drill wells for over 44 years, and two people from Erie were able to. It is an overwhelming and enlightened feeling to know that people from Erie were able to bring something that we take for granted(like water) to those who need it so badly. If you have a chance, try and watch this video. http://yourerie.com/fulltext?nxd_id=157396
After 9 days the issue in Cairo seems to be out of control and has become very violent. The reports of violent with military personnel just watching and not responding is the testament to the disdain of this ruler. According to reports Tuesday was peaceful demonstrations & one of the largest demonstrations since this all started early last week. But things changed quickly after Mubarak made the announcement that he was not stepping down. Today (Wednesday) has been the most violent.
I have a hard time understanding why these leaders that are supposed to be somewhat intelligent people do not take into consideration what their people want. They can clearly see the effect this has on the people. Even in our own state, leaders cannot play nice in the sandbox to make headway on our policies. The first day back in the new session, Democrats walk out after being shut out from the Republican Majority.
I can honestly say that I did not know of the situations in Egypt until I read this blog. Sounds to me that the Egyptian government is getting pretty nervous by attacking journalists and terminating the internet. Why doen't Mubarak just step down? Does he really think he can continue doing what he is doing (or not doing)? He's probably eventually going to be assasinated. Its interesting to see one of the world's stronger countries go through this kind of conflict. And this is also a good reason why democracy is favored in alot of countries. 30 years as president has shown that it has been too much, and the people want him out and I doubt they rest until he is.
Cnn.com “inside the numbers: the frustrations of a generation”
This article provided insight into the factors behind the current demonstrations – from a lack of economic opportunities for vast segments of society to governments that provide little say for citizens. The most significant however is the frustration of young people in the region struggling to support themselves and their families. More than 100 million young people between the ages of 15-29 live in the North Africa & Middle East region. One of the problems is the quality of education available for this young population – although most are getting the schooling, it is very low quality & doesn’t provide its students with any skills that are useful in the labor market. Unemployment rates for those between the ages of 15-29 are much higher than the average rates across the region – in countries like Algeria it’s nearly 46%! I definitely found myself relating to this article – I’m in that age group and I could only imagine what it’s like having a degree and it being worthless. It’s no wonder that this region is in such turmoil – these people are asking for their basic needs – being able to support themselves & their families. The article compares this to a generation the size of the baby boomers in the U.S. trying to find a job in the U.S. economy of the late 1970s. This generation’s aspirations have been stifled so they have no choice but to take their grievances to the streets.
Cnn.com – “child workers in Yemen given back their childhood” This article tells a story about 12 year old Abed and his 10 year old brother who leave school at one in the afternoon & work until sunset, selling balloons in the park, earning about $4.60 a day between them. The money, the article concludes is never enough. These children are one of Yemen’s many child workers who have to work to support their families. Yemen has a young and rapidly growing population and there is widespread poverty. Many parents do not earn enough to support their children (as I mentioned in the last article) so these children must share the burden of work to survive. Many children work in dangerous conditions; those in rural areas work in agriculture. There are some organizations like Yemen’s Shawthab Foundation for Childhood & Development helping working children by providing them with food, clothes, school bags & protection, on the condition they stay in school. Although Yemeni law prohibits child labor there is a lack of monitoring so it is common for businesses to flout the law by employing young children. I think the key to ending this problem is changing parents’ attitudes about child labor. The sad part is parents encourage children to work and often need to be convinced not to send children to work. It is parents’ responsibilities to take care of children – if their own parents who are supposed to protect them won’t step up to the plate, how can anyone else make a case?
On February 1st Egypt's president Mubarak announced that he will not seek a reelection in the 2011. He has stated that his time as president is complete and he wishes the best for the government as they elect a new leader.
Egypt has vowed not to use force against the protesters. Their reasoning is they want a peaceful resumption back into everyday life, not any violence and they want all of their citizens to be as safe as possible and using force will greatly enhance the violence and perhaps cause even more out breaks. I feel this is a good approach however some force is needed in certain situations to protect civilians not in riots also property.
About 22,000 people have fled Pakistan’s restive tribal region due to intense fighting between military and terrorists. Roshan Khan Mehsud, a government spokesperson, said the estimated 22,000 displaced are now living in camps away from the troubled area and are being provided with food and aid. The military offensive in Mohmand tribal agency near Afghanistan border began Jan 27 to rout militants involved in targeting security forces and orchestrating bombings in the region. The official said the troops backed by jets and helicopter gunships had so far killed nearly 100 insurgents. Some casualties among security forces were also reported. I think its a shame how all these people have to leave their homes. It's also sad how innocent people are dying because of the fighting.
Is very difficult to understand how Mubarak has been able to hold power for 28 years, or how Zine al'Abidine Ben Ali wsa able to hold power so long in Tunisia. Obviously, intimidation and repression were tools used by both, but in Tunisia, sports were a tool used to distract the people. There are eleven stadiums in Tunis alone. By "encouraging" the population to participate in sports, Ben Ali was able to keep the people occupied. Apparently, Ben Ali hoped that democracy was something that you think about after soccer practice, unless your too tired. In the early days of the protests, there was a lot of talk about this being a social networking phenomenon. I think that it isn't only a social networking event. I think that these events are a synergistic effect of technology, penetration of various communication modes, and a desire for freedom.
I just read a very inspiring article. It is about a man named Moses Kipsiro. He won double gold mental for running. Kenya was famed for the fastest runners but now because of Kipsiro Uganda is. Kipsiro has brought such inspiration to the kids of his country. Each morning when he wakes up and goes running, he is greeted by the pack of local youths to join him. I like that he first encourages the children to study and go to school. Then he tells them if you have a talent you practice and one day you'll be able to go anywhere. Like I said before even just a little encouragement for children can go a long way. Now they look at Kipsiro and think if he can do it so can I, and thats a wonderful feeling to have.
MSNBC Reports that 2 men convicted in 2009, for filming footage of anti-government protests that had been occuring all over Iran. These protests occurred after Mahmond Ahmadinejad won the election which was believed to have been won through ballot fraud. They were also accused of visiting the groups base in Iraq for training. The two men were hung to death today after pleads from the U.S. and protesters went unheard as Irans court of appeals upheld the ruling. These men were killed for their freedom of speech not crimes against religion but simply freedom of speech. I can not imagine the pain those two men endored. I also think that they knew the risk and penelty involved when they began the crusaid to show Iran the truth. I think they must have felt it as a risk needed to be taken in order to help find change and bring freedom. As in Islam they are now jihad with innerpeace without hait may these men rest in peace and may more stand to allow freedom between government and their religion.
ReplyDeleteMSNBC Reports that a 26 year old male, Mumtaz Qadri was arrested and being held in a Pakistan prison. The confessed killer of Punjab Province Gov. Salman Taseer, claims he posed as his body-gaurd and then shot him. Qadri claims that he had to kill him because Taseer had critized Pakistani laws, that mandate death for insulting Islam. Tens of thousands of Pakistani supporters gathered outside of the prison cheering for Qadri and brought gifts. It is said that he is to be formally charged for this crime on February 1st. Here is another crime between government and religion. Although Islams religion and law all come from the same place. The Quran is their bible and their law gods law. It is how they punish all crimes. The punishment of these crimes are cast out from the Quran. By hanging, stoning, ext. The issues in Islamic belief is that the same punishments are ment for all crimes no matter the differance in severity. Although I won't be suprised that this man is set free on the 1st of February as he was only upholding the law which is allowed in their culture when it comes to a crime against Islam. It is sad to see that they do not see, that all crimes are not the same and it takes from the peoples freedom of speech, or all their rights as a person. They seek death to all that do crime against Quran. Although we seek the death penalty in murder cases there is a fair hearing and trial, Islamic religion and justice is based on an individuals choice to choose crime and punishment. Although this man killed he killed a man who commited crime aganist Islam and the man would have been put to death for this crime at court. They claim freedom of their people but this is clearly not the case. Islamic religion is a powerful way of life as they live their life through only the word of the Quran. As to both stories I posted these crimes and punish mets are upheld as Justice.
ReplyDeleteCNN International news reported that Algeria had a Rally for Culture and Democracy. There was not much said about the rally, but the government is giving the opposition group a hard time, and saying that they do not have any rights in their country. Unfortunately, the rally resulted in eleven individuals as well as two police men in serious condition. The entire cause of the rally was set up by the opposition group RCD, because they want their collective freedom back. Saadi, one of the leaders of the group spoke for the entire group and said that the group will not 'kneel' down to the Algerian government, until they see an improvement with the rights issue. Protests in Algeria have been breaking out left and right according to CNN news, the community has even caused an uproar about the price of foods in local grocery stores. The government is seeking additional options to cease these protests that are unauthorized.
ReplyDeleteAccording to CNN international news, a 25 year old married Pakistani mother has agreed to go against the norm and enroll in school. Her name is Rukhsana Batool, and she was encouraged to enroll in the elementary school by her two sons teacher, and her husband. Education was not something Rukhsana or several women in Pakistan had the advantage and opportunity of. Although Batool does not look like her fellow students in the first grade classroom, she loves it. She sits next to her 4 and 5 year old son everyday at school. She is enrolled in the first grade. Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in the world and education is not something that woman normally experience. Only 4 out of 10 women in Pakistan can read and write. Batool hopes that her enrollment in school will encourage other Pakistani women to enroll in an education. I found this interesting because we tend to take our education for granted, and underprivliged people would do almost anything to be learning and in a classroom.
ReplyDeleteCNN.com Reports That a audio tape with a voice claiming to be Osama Bin Laden warns France to pull out of Afghanistan. The taped message claimed that he had the two abducted journalists from 2009 and that their lives depended on Frances military role in Afghanistan. The voice on the audio tape threatens France that if they don't end their Alliance with the United States it will prove to be a costly decision. He then goes on to threaten Frances President that he will kill the two men when he is ready. France proclaims they will stand strong in their alliance with the United States in Afghanistan. I'd first like to say thank you to France and all troops fighting to keep all countries safe, even the people of Afghanistan that are truely seeking freedom. Although these two lives are worth more than their weight in gold they will not surrender for the holding of only two men. It is sad but easier to lose two lives than an entire city or nation to terrorist. Bin Laden has rained his terror and evil on all countries even his own for to long. It is time to seek and destroy evil with more than the human stregth. Prayers to aid our troops with the knowledge to track this monster and bring him to justice. As my other two posts depict some information into the Islamic Religion Osama Bin Ladens claims on are not of any definition depicted in the Quran. There are some to claim jihad as a reason or barganing to their crimes but again this word does not mean to cast the world with violance, as it means to fight the bad or negitive inside one's self to find their inner peace. This is clearly not the case with Bin Laden he in a sense is Commiting or planning to commit a sort of Genocidal acts although he has no true spacific nationality, color, culture, but a true hait crime against any and all who hold or want freedom and don't convey in his mind his government, punisment, and Religious views. This man reminds me of Hitler if this were then I am almost positive he would have caused greater devistation to the world. Again a great Love and Thank You to all TROOPS that keep all countries safe.
ReplyDeleteToday in Sudan, singers met with hope to ease the animosity in the region. With their peacful rhythms and contemporary hip-hop beats,the group of young rappers brought together poetic Arabic lyrics combined with Dinka, Nuer and English. The collaboration was originally brought on by Southern Sudan's vote on independence. Their painfull experiences and memories of war are reflected through their music, in an effort to spread the word on peace. Jal, who was a participant, initiated a global campaign with release of his new single "We Want Peace." Even though the separation of north and south Sudan is painful, he wants people to realize they are actually "one people."
ReplyDeleteWhat kind of a domino effect Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan and Libya will face by what is going on with Tunisian?
ReplyDeleteTime to change those dictators, yes I say to those who is fighting for their better life in those countries, I don’t see how those rich countries making their people live in poverty. and what happen in Tunisia is a desperate act by a young unemployed man on 17 December triggered a much wider series of protests and clashes with the police. Mohamed Bouazizi set fire to himself when officials in his town prevented him from selling vegetables on the streets of Sidi Bouzid without permission. This set off protests about jobs in the town, which has an agriculture-based economy in one of the poorest regions of the country. These demonstrations then spread elsewhere, in a move the government said was being exploited by the opposition.
But the violent response of the authorities - with the police opening fire on demonstrators - appears to have exacerbated anger and ignited further protests.
The unrest is also widely seen as drawing on deep frustration with the ruling elite and the suppression of political freedoms. The clashes became much more deadly on the weekend of 8-9 January, and then spread to the capital Tunis. The government says 78 people have been killed in the protests. There is speculation about a possible domino effect similar to the collapse of Communist governments around Eastern Europe in 1989. In several countries of the Middle East and North Africa, youthful and rapidly growing populations face rising food prices, high unemployment and lack of political representation. Some are also ruled by aging autocrats facing succession issues. On the face of it, Egypt has many similarities with Tunisia - tough economic conditions, official corruption and little opportunity for its citizens to express their dissatisfaction with the political system. President Hosni Mubarak, 82, has an almost complete monopoly on power, has been in office for three decades and is seeking re-election this autumn.
But Egyptians' deep frustration has not so far translated into large-scale protest, and political demonstrations are generally restricted to a few hundred people. A state of emergency has been in place in Algeria since 1992, and public demonstrations in the capital have been banned. There are regular impromptu protests elsewhere in the country, but in recent weeks these broke out simultaneously across Algeria for the first time, including in the capital, Algiers. There have been reports of self-immolations, too. Libyan leader Muammar Gadaffi's sharp reaction on Saturday to the overthrow of President Ben Ali would seem to reflect his own nervousness about a possible domino effect. Thousands staged protests across Jordan in a "day of rage" on Saturday in protest against rising food prices and unemployment. Some demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Samir Rifai. Like Tunisia, Morocco has been facing economic problems and allegations of corruption in ruling circles. Morocco's reputation was damaged after Wikileaks revealed allegations of increased corruption, in particular the royal family's business affairs and the "appalling greed" of people close to King Mohammed VI.but soon or later one of those countries will face the change.
This week in the New York Times, deadly attacks against religious pilgrims and members of Iraq’s security forces continued on Monday, including three car bombings around the city of Karbala, where as many as 10 million marchers are expected to travel in observance of one of the most sacred holidays on the Shiite Muslim calendar. Also, a roadside bomb in Baghdad’s Shula neighborhood wounded another five marchers. The attacks on pilgrims, which began with two nearly simultaneous blasts in the early morning hours, killed as many as 30 and wounded more than 100. The amount of casualites lost in these bombings keeps going up throughout the week. Officials say that they think Al Qaeda is working with the Baath. There have been attacks on many different people including lawmakers. It is a scary and unfortunate thing. When religion is targeted, it is considered martyrdom. I can only hope and pray that things get better for the people in Baghdad
ReplyDeleteSeveral dozen Palestinians confronted France’s foreign minister, as she entered Gaza from Israel on Friday, throwing eggs and shouting angry slogans at her armored motorcade over a comment falsely attributed to her about an Israeli soldier being held in captivity here since 2006. The minister, Michèle Alliot-Marie, had met in Jerusalem on Thursday with the parents of the abducted soldier, Staff Sgt. Gilad Shalit, after which a statement by Sergeant Shalit’s father accusing the captors of a war crime was misreported as hers. I thought it was intersting that they threw eggs, but in their culture, that might be a sign of hatred. Although the accusations were falsely portrayed, the throwing of the eggs can not be apologized for.
ReplyDeleteJust to comment on Rosemary about Iraq on going killing, this issue has long history since the death of Prophet Mohammed to this time as we see the attack against mostly Shia. Unfortunately some of the Sunni does not recognize the Shia as a Muslim. And here is the problem that give the extremist Muslims the justify to kill Shia whenever it is possible, this has long background event right after the death of the Prophet, Shia claim that Mohammed pinpoint his successors, but the Sunni don’t recognize that well known action called (Alghadeer), therefore Shia did not follow who ever came to lead Muslim nation after the absent of Prophet Mohammed, since then Sunni call Shia as the Rafadhi( mean the refuse of non Mohammed’s successors)
ReplyDeleteThere have been many government issues around the world so far and the most recent is happening in Egypt. Thousands of Egyptian protestors gather around the heart of Cairo, which is the capital of Egypt to resist the government. The reason of this assemble was that the recent uprising in Tunisia has inspired the protestors. The demanding group requested to terminate President Hosni Mubarak’s authoritarian rule. As well as recall the government for solution to Egypt’s poverty, corruption and unemployment along with the police’s use of power. This assembles considered to be the biggest protest in Egypt causing Egyptian police to collide with the protestors. Police fired tear gas, rubber bullets, stone throwing and beat protestors to clear thousands of people from a central Cario square. As a result, there have been at least three deaths. Personally, I think what the police have done really made them not as much different from social evil doer that neglectful of a duty. Furthermore, the government blamed the violence on the banned Islamist movement. I strongly believe that violence is not the best solution. I really don’t understand why people not using reason to communicate and find solution that can be agreeable and that will improving Egyptian standard living rather than blaming or using violence. The best solution I can think of is to resign president Hosni Mubarak out of his position and have a new election. I think it is time to implement political, economic and social reforms to respond to the legitimate needs and interests of the Egyptian people.
ReplyDeleteCNN just reported that Egypt’s Mubarak dissolved his government and vowed to put a new government in place tomorrow. He announced that he wants to work for democracy and improved living conditions. I question if he really means what he said because it took all this violence to bring him to this point. In my opinion, a good leader understands the needs of his country and makes progressive decisions to move forward. By announcing a new government Mubarak gives SOME hope of change. Only time will tell what kind of government he put together. President Obama spoke with Mubarak after he announced he was dissolving the government. Obama told him to back up his words, that violence is not the answer. Hopefully Mubarak gets the message and opens up dialogue with his people. I must also add that the people need to stop the violence. The media seems to condemn the police for brutality. Their actions ARE wrong but so are the protestors. I think there is enough blame to go around for everyone to share.
ReplyDeleteOkay so instead about talking about news that isn't that happy I found some news that is on the happier side! I read today that in Africa Morocco will be in the 2015,2017 soccer events. They (Morocco) have not hosted it since 1988 and Africa since 1996. And Rwanda will host it in 2017. I just thought we should have something a little different. :)
ReplyDeleteI am sure that everyone has been following the tragedies that are occurring in Egypt. The people are upset and feed up with the president who has run his regime for more then 30 years. The Egypt president is supported by the United States as many of you all ready know. The whole country is rioting and lives are being lost. I read in the New York Times that over ten Police men were killed during these riots. Many other men and women of uniform took their uniforms of their backs and joined the protesters. The people are tried of this corrupt government that only peruses its own agenda. This problem has gathered the international community comes face to face on this issue in Egypt. I am sure it won’t be long before the people get the president to step down. The numbers in support of the president stepping down and ending this regime is overwhelming. I will try to stay up with the news and post more information as it is being release. Please if anyone knows more about this issue, go ahead and post it. It think it will be interesting to see where is ends up or how it’s resolved.
ReplyDeleteEgypt: Today (Jan 30), several countries including the U.S., advised their Nationals to leave Egypt. Fox News reported celebrities and businessmen were also leaving the country. Sixty-four private jets have flown out over the past two days. Friday’s stock markets took a big hit because of the unrest. This shows that the world is worried about the domino effect…the violent protests moving into other Middle East countries. Hilary Clinton said that the United States wants Mubarak to focus on a transition to a democratic government. If Mubarak steps down and one of the opposition groups takes power, this could have negative effects for the people and foreign relations. According to Clinton an organized transition to democracy is the best way to improve the standard of living for the Egyptians. This process needs to be done slowly so that the people can adjust and understand exactly what they will gain. I tend to agree with Clinton, once all the violence ends the individual in charge should work with foreign leaders to establish a government that meets the needs of the people. But, first the violence needs to end. How that will happen remains to be seen.
ReplyDeleteWe are following some diverse news and interest stories! Stay tuned and keep sharing:)
ReplyDeleteEgypt in Crisis
ReplyDeleteI am watching CNN now and they are talking about how the government turned off the internet in Egypt. That is unreal, can you imagine if that happened in the U.S.? They are also encouraging people who are watching the news to go on Facebook and Twitter and post your opinion on what is going on in Egypt. So what they are saying is we have an opinion, but the people in Egypt do not? Protesters are entering their second week and are calling a “Million-Man Marches” the march could start in an hour from now and I hope the government sees that something needs done before it gets out of hand.. The government is now shutting down mobile phone network and train stations to stop the march. The US is calling for orderly transition and that Egypt must change. Egypt being the second largest city in Africa it has the possibility to make a stand and cause chaos. This will cause oil prices to go way up. I know as of yesterday 3 are dead from the protest and several inmates have escaped from prison. Egypt will never be the same after this.
To continue on with the domino effect....
ReplyDeleteI read an article on cnn.com 2/2/11 titled “The domino effect of Arab unrest”. This article is a continuation of the protest going on in Egypt. The article starts out with the witnessing of people power over political power. It continues on stating that over-population and corruption are the two biggest factors that most African, Middle East, and south Asia countries face today. The citizens of the country want the government to provide stable economic growth and to protect their welfare. As seen in Egypt these protestors want change. Egyptians wants to be liberated from autocrats and theocrats and transformed into a nation of democracy. The article goes on to show that this just may be the time for other countries to stand up for the same rights; as in the domino effect. Other article headings on cnn.com in the past few weeks read Jordan’s king dismisses government; Yemen president won’t seek re-election, Is Egypt following Tunisia. Domino effect; the headlines suggest that is what is going to happen. The world is being affected by these protests. This type of protesting is quite scary, several imagines include wounded citizens. As the protest continue; it will be interesting to see how the ending will emerge. Democracy or Repression? And will other countries continue to follow?
Did anyone see WJET channel 24 local news yesterday (February 1, 2011)? The government promised water wells to Africa since 1967 but never happened. People from Erie, Pa as a part of the Africa 6000 were able to drill seven water wells. The government couldn’t drill wells for over 44 years, and two people from Erie were able to. It is an overwhelming and enlightened feeling to know that people from Erie were able to bring something that we take for granted(like water) to those who need it so badly. If you have a chance, try and watch this video. http://yourerie.com/fulltext?nxd_id=157396
ReplyDeleteAfter 9 days the issue in Cairo seems to be out of control and has become very violent. The reports of violent with military personnel just watching and not responding is the testament to the disdain of this ruler. According to reports Tuesday was peaceful demonstrations & one of the largest demonstrations since this all started early last week. But things changed quickly after Mubarak made the announcement that he was not stepping down. Today (Wednesday) has been the most violent.
ReplyDeleteI have a hard time understanding why these leaders that are supposed to be somewhat intelligent people do not take into consideration what their people want. They can clearly see the effect this has on the people. Even in our own state, leaders cannot play nice in the sandbox to make headway on our policies. The first day back in the new session, Democrats walk out after being shut out from the Republican Majority.
I can honestly say that I did not know of the situations in Egypt until I read this blog. Sounds to me that the Egyptian government is getting pretty nervous by attacking journalists and terminating the internet. Why doen't Mubarak just step down? Does he really think he can continue doing what he is doing (or not doing)? He's probably eventually going to be assasinated. Its interesting to see one of the world's stronger countries go through this kind of conflict. And this is also a good reason why democracy is favored in alot of countries. 30 years as president has shown that it has been too much, and the people want him out and I doubt they rest until he is.
ReplyDeleteCnn.com “inside the numbers: the frustrations of a generation”
ReplyDeleteThis article provided insight into the factors behind the current demonstrations – from a lack of economic opportunities for vast segments of society to governments that provide little say for citizens. The most significant however is the frustration of young people in the region struggling to support themselves and their families. More than 100 million young people between the ages of 15-29 live in the North Africa & Middle East region.
One of the problems is the quality of education available for this young population – although most are getting the schooling, it is very low quality & doesn’t provide its students with any skills that are useful in the labor market.
Unemployment rates for those between the ages of 15-29 are much higher than the average rates across the region – in countries like Algeria it’s nearly 46%!
I definitely found myself relating to this article – I’m in that age group and I could only imagine what it’s like having a degree and it being worthless. It’s no wonder that this region is in such turmoil – these people are asking for their basic needs – being able to support themselves & their families. The article compares this to a generation the size of the baby boomers in the U.S. trying to find a job in the U.S. economy of the late 1970s. This generation’s aspirations have been stifled so they have no choice but to take their grievances to the streets.
Cnn.com – “child workers in Yemen given back their childhood”
ReplyDeleteThis article tells a story about 12 year old Abed and his 10 year old brother who leave school at one in the afternoon & work until sunset, selling balloons in the park, earning about $4.60 a day between them. The money, the article concludes is never enough. These children are one of Yemen’s many child workers who have to work to support their families.
Yemen has a young and rapidly growing population and there is widespread poverty. Many parents do not earn enough to support their children (as I mentioned in the last article) so these children must share the burden of work to survive.
Many children work in dangerous conditions; those in rural areas work in agriculture.
There are some organizations like Yemen’s Shawthab Foundation for Childhood & Development helping working children by providing them with food, clothes, school bags & protection, on the condition they stay in school.
Although Yemeni law prohibits child labor there is a lack of monitoring so it is common for businesses to flout the law by employing young children. I think the key to ending this problem is changing parents’ attitudes about child labor. The sad part is parents encourage children to work and often need to be convinced not to send children to work. It is parents’ responsibilities to take care of children – if their own parents who are supposed to protect them won’t step up to the plate, how can anyone else make a case?
On February 1st Egypt's president Mubarak announced that he will not seek a reelection in the 2011. He has stated that his time as president is complete and he wishes the best for the government as they elect a new leader.
ReplyDeleteEgypt has vowed not to use force against the protesters. Their reasoning is they want a peaceful resumption back into everyday life, not any violence and they want all of their citizens to be as safe as possible and using force will greatly enhance the violence and perhaps cause even more out breaks. I feel this is a good approach however some force is needed in certain situations to protect civilians not in riots also property.
About 22,000 people have fled Pakistan’s restive tribal region due to intense fighting between military and terrorists. Roshan Khan Mehsud, a government spokesperson, said the estimated 22,000 displaced are now living in camps away from the troubled area and are being provided with food and aid. The military offensive in Mohmand tribal agency near Afghanistan border began Jan 27 to rout militants involved in targeting security forces and orchestrating bombings in the region. The official said the troops backed by jets and helicopter gunships had so far killed nearly 100 insurgents. Some casualties among security forces were also reported. I think its a shame how all these people have to leave their homes. It's also sad how innocent people are dying because of the fighting.
ReplyDeleteIs very difficult to understand how Mubarak has been able to hold power for 28 years, or how Zine al'Abidine Ben Ali wsa able to hold power so long in Tunisia. Obviously, intimidation and repression were tools used by both, but in Tunisia, sports were a tool used to distract the people. There are eleven stadiums in Tunis alone. By "encouraging" the population to participate in sports, Ben Ali was able to keep the people occupied. Apparently, Ben Ali hoped that democracy was something that you think about after soccer practice, unless your too tired. In the early days of the protests, there was a lot of talk about this being a social networking phenomenon. I think that it isn't only a social networking event. I think that these events are a synergistic effect of technology, penetration of various communication modes, and a desire for freedom.
ReplyDeleteCheck 2/6/11
ReplyDeleteI just read a very inspiring article. It is about a man named Moses Kipsiro. He won double gold mental for running. Kenya was famed for the fastest runners but now because of Kipsiro Uganda is. Kipsiro has brought such inspiration to the kids of his country. Each morning when he wakes up and goes running, he is greeted by the pack of local youths to join him. I like that he first encourages the children to study and go to school. Then he tells them if you have a talent you practice and one day you'll be able to go anywhere. Like I said before even just a little encouragement for children can go a long way. Now they look at Kipsiro and think if he can do it so can I, and thats a wonderful feeling to have.
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