Redwan Ahmed is a freelance journalist and fixer/local producer based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. He reports on human rights, the readymade garments industry, and climate change issues. He also covers any breaking news.

Bangladesh garment workers fighting for pay face brutal violence and threats

15 Nov 2023  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Protests

Garment workers in Bangladesh, including Masuma Akhtar and Naima Islam, face brutal violence and threats as they protest for higher wages. Despite a government-announced wage increase, the new minimum wage remains far below what workers need to survive. Factory owners and police have responded with violence, threats, and mass dismissals. Major fashion brands like Marks & Spencer and C&A are investigating the incidents and supporting wage negotiations, while rights groups call for brands to take responsibility for fair wages. The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association is criticized for its role in the violent crackdown.

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Clean Clothes Campaign Human Rights Watch Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association Sommilito Garments Sramik Federation

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Nalova Akua is 2022 winner of the Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling. The award which honours up-and-coming journalists in Africa who strive to strengthen people's voices and improve their well-being came with a reporting grant and a two-week internship at The Economist ...

Bill Urges Blinken to Hold Cameroon Accountable for Human Rights Abuses

15 Feb 2023  |  www.theepochtimes.com  |  English  |  Cameroon Conflict

Rep. Karen Bass has introduced a proposal urging Secretary of State Antony Blinken to hold Cameroon accountable for human rights abuses linked to the Anglophone crisis. The conflict, which began in 2016, has led to significant violence and human rights violations by both the Cameroon government and separatist groups. The international community, including organizations like the African Union and the U.N., has been criticized for its ineffective response. The article highlights the complex colonial history of Cameroon and the ongoing struggle for independence by the Anglophone regions.

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The Global Campaign for Peace and Justice in Cameroon Human Rights Watch Cameroon Government Ambazonia Secessionist Movements National Democratic Institute African Union Commonwealth U.N.

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Mishti Ali is a journalist based in Cambridge, United Kingdom.

‘It’s in my blood to fight back’: Drag Race star Peppermint on anti-LGBTQ+ bills

01 Oct 2023  |  GAY TIMES  |  English  |  Drag Shows

Peppermint, a prominent drag entertainer and activist, expresses frustration over the increasing number of anti-trans and anti-drag laws in the US, emphasizing their negative impact on the LGBTQ+ community. She highlights the resilience of drag performers and the broader LGBTQ+ community in adapting to challenges, including the pandemic. Peppermint underscores the importance of drag as a tool for communication and education while stressing the critical state of healthcare for transgender individuals. She encourages trans youth to remain strong despite the barriers and continues to use platforms like Linktree to connect with her audience and support her work.

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Human Rights Campaign Trans Legislation Tracker

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Alessandra Bajec is a journalist based in Cairo since 2013. From 2010 to 2011, she lived Palestine where she made her first steps as a freelance journalist. She has experience in writing for print, online media along with some radio experience. Her work has appeared in UN's IRIN, Russia Today's rt....

Will the UK stop selling arms to Israel?

07 Aug 2024  |  The New Arab  |  English  |  International law

The UK government faces mounting pressure to suspend arms sales to Israel amid allegations of international law violations in Gaza. Despite legal advice and calls from human rights organizations, the UK has delayed a decision, with Labour's David Lammy considering a ban on 'offensive' weapons. The International Court of Justice's ruling against Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories adds to the pressure. Critics argue the UK risks complicity in humanitarian law violations, while political and economic ties with Israel complicate the decision. The debate highlights the UK's struggle to balance international law compliance with strategic alliances.

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Palestine Solidarity Campaign Campaign Against Arms Trade Human Rights Watch UK Government Labour Party Conservative Party International Court of Justice War on Want Council for Arab-British Understanding

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Meet Dinesh Bothra, a seasoned journalist with a profound passion for the written word. With over two and a half decades of dedicated service in print media, Dinesh has left an indelible mark on the journalistic landscape. Currently thriving as a freelance journalist, he has carved a niche for ...

Death and debt: The two shadows that never leave Jodhpur sandstone workers, families

01 Oct 2023  |  101reporters.com  |  English  |  Labor Rights

Silicosis, a fatal lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust, continues to devastate the lives of sandstone mine workers and their families in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Despite government policies and relief programs, many workers and their dependents struggle with debt and lack of medical facilities. The Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission and other organizations have taken steps to address the issue, but challenges remain in enforcing safety regulations and providing adequate compensation. The article underscores the urgent need for better regulatory measures and support systems to protect vulnerable mine workers.

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Mine Labour Protection Campaign Trust Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission National Institute of Miners' Health Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board Mines Department District Mineral Foundation Trust Directorate of Mines and Geology Directorate General of Mines Safety

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The Future of War Is Autonomous Killer Robots Battling to the Death

01 Oct 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Military Technology

The article discusses the emerging threat of autonomous killer robots in warfare, highlighting concerns from experts and campaigners about the destabilizing effects of lethal autonomous weapons systems (Laws). It details the ongoing arms race among major nations like the USA, China, and Russia to develop these technologies, and the push by organizations like Human Rights Watch to ban fully autonomous weapons. The article also touches on the potential risks and unpredictability associated with these systems, emphasizing the need for international regulation to prevent future conflicts driven by autonomous weapons.

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Campaign to Stop Killer Robots Human Rights Watch UN US Department of Defense Ministry of Defence

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Jessica Buxbaum is an independent journalist covering Palestine, Israel, and Syria.

As UK Inks Trade Deal with Israel, Rishi Sunak’s Connections to Apartheid State Come Under Scrutiny

09 Apr 2023  |  MintPress News  |  English  |  Human Rights

The UK and Israel have signed a trade deal, the 2030 Roadmap for UK-Israeli Bilateral Relations, which strengthens ties in trade, technology, and military cooperation. The deal has been criticized by activists and human rights organizations for making the UK complicit in what they describe as Israeli apartheid. The agreement includes commitments to combat antisemitism and anti-Israel bias, and opposes the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement. Critics argue that the UK is ignoring human rights violations in Palestine and strengthening economic and security ties with Israel. The article also highlights UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's business connections to Israel through Infosys, a company linked to the Israeli military.

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Campaign Against Arms Trade Palestine Solidarity Campaign United Nations Human Rights Council Friends of Al-Aqsa Israeli Military Intelligence Unit 8200

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James Clark is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom, specialising in sustainable tourism, adventure, and the great outdoors.

Press conference to address latest allegations of anti-Black racism at York University, following firing of Black employee of 24 years

05 Apr 2023  |  EIN News  |  English  |  Education

York University faces allegations of anti-Black racism following the firing of Lydia Dosu, a Black employee of 24 years. A press conference organized by students, labor leaders, and community allies will address the issue, reviewing the chronology of Dosu's complaint, including a 2019 application to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, and the retaliation she faced. Key speakers include Deena Ladd, Ron Franklin, Dr. Laura Mae Lindo, Marie Clarke Walker, Adaeze Mbalaja, and Nathi Zamisa. The event aims to highlight systemic racism and advocate for justice and equity.

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Campaign Against Anti-Black Racism Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario York University Workers' Action Centre Canadian Labour Congress Coalition of Black Trade Unionists York Federation of Students York University Graduate Students' Association

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Yen Duong is a multimedia journalist based in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, she travels often around the region.

I am a widely-published and versatile freelance journalist with 15 years' experience currently in London. See **** for work. I am an Australian-Canadian dual citizen who has reported from across Africa, Asia, the UK, and Australia. I have been published with The Sydney Morning Herald, News Deeply, ...

Should Uganda’s anti-homosexuality laws really be the “death knell” for the country’s tourism?

21 Jun 2023  |  Adventure.com  |  English  |  Legislation

Uganda's harsh anti-gay laws, prescribing severe penalties for same-sex acts, have raised concerns about the potential impact on the country's tourism industry. The sector, which contributes significantly to Uganda's GDP, is already reeling from the effects of COVID-19 and an Ebola outbreak. Tourism professionals and LGBTQ+ activists in Uganda express varying opinions on the ethics of visiting the country and the effectiveness of travel boycotts. International responses include travel advisories and the halting of promotional content by eTurboNews. The Uganda Tourism Board hopes the law will not deter tourists, while advocacy groups suggest supporting businesses that give back to the queer community.

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Human Rights Campaign Uganda Investment Authority Great Lake Safaris Uganda Lodges Uganda Tourism Board eTurboNews World Tourism Organization Equality Florida International LGBTQ+ Travel Association

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I am an Iranian-American Journalist and Iran Analyst.
 When I was 14 I was lucky enough to get a work experience placement at newspaper in Iran. That was begining, From 1997 through today and I have worked with such as great Media inside and outside of Iran. 
I worked as a beat reporter for many ...

Iranian Activist Tavakoli Starts Five

02 Oct 2023  |  www.rferl.org  |  English  |  Death Penalty

Four Iranian women, including aid worker Pakhshan Azizi and labor activist Sharifeh Mohammadi, have been charged with armed rebellion against the state, a crime punishable by death. Human rights groups condemn these charges as baseless and politically motivated. The rise in death sentences for women follows the 2022 antiestablishment protests sparked by Mahsa Amini's death. The article also discusses the broader context of Iran's political repression, including the crackdown on Kurdish minorities and the use of the death penalty to instill fear. Additionally, it touches on Iran's geopolitical maneuvers, including its stance on the Iran nuclear deal and its involvement in regional conflicts.

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Trump campaign University of Economics and Human Sciences Iran Human Rights group Center for Human Rights in Iran Free Life Party of Kurdistan Kurdistan Workers Party Islamic State U.S. State Department Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action Israel Defense Forces Hizballah Hamas European Union United States Iranian Foreign Ministry International North–South Transport Corridor Shanghai Cooperation Organization BRICS World Trade Organization Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center Echo of the Caucasus Digital Forensic Research Lab Microsoft Threat Analysis Center Open AI Mandiant Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Google threat analysis group Iranian police Das Deutsche Sprachinstitut Teheran Goethe Institute Islamic Center Hamburg

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Matt Haines is a journalist based in New Orleans, United States of America.

Some Fear US Abortion Decision Could Strip Other Rights

20 May 2023  |  www.voanews.com  |  English  |  Civil Rights

A leaked draft opinion by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito suggests the court may overturn Roe v. Wade, allowing states to ban abortion. This has sparked fears that other rights based on the right to privacy, such as contraception and same-sex marriage, could also be threatened. While some believe these fears are exaggerated, others argue that the reasoning in Alito's draft could lead to a domino effect, endangering various civil rights. Legal experts and activists emphasize the need for vigilance in protecting these rights.

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Human Rights Campaign U.S. Supreme Court

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Saeid Jafari is an Iranian journalist and an analyst on Middle Eastern affairs. He is a contributor to various media outlets such as Al-Monitor, Foreign Policy, Atlantic Council, National Interest, Middle East Eye, and Euronews. He has also worked for many Iranian media outlets including Aseman, ...

Iran Hands Down Prison Terms To Two Journalists Over Amini Coverage

22 Apr 2023  |  www.rferl.org  |  English  |  Politics

Two Iranian journalists, Niloofar Hamedi and Elahah Mohammadi, were sentenced to prison for their coverage of Mahsa Amini's death in custody, sparking national protests. They were accused of collaborating with the U.S. and acting against national security. The sentences can be appealed. The article also discusses the militant group Jaish al-Adl's attacks in Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province, the group's background, funding, and recent escalation in violence. Additionally, it covers the sentencing of political activist Hossein Razzagh and the detention of Turkmen pop star Nazir Habibov in Iran for narcotics possession. The EU removed sanctions on Iranian tech startup ArvanCloud, and a group of female students faced legal threats for dancing at a graduation event. Lastly, four Iranian environmental activists were pardoned, and the high suicide rate among Iranian resident doctors was highlighted.

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Global Campaign Against the Death Penalty in Iran Iran Human Rights Organization Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Jaish al-Adl Committee to Protect Journalists Ham Mihan newspaper Sharq newspaper United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Amnesty International International Committee Against the Death Penalty

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Lucy Kafanov is an Emmy-nominated foreign correspondent who has reported from many of the world's conflict-ridden regions and political hotspots. Based in Istanbul, Lucy covers the Middle East, Afghanistan, Turkey and Russia for clients including Newsweek, VICE News, the Christian Science Monitor, ...

7 Republican AGs write to Target, say Pride month campaigns could violate their state’s child protection laws

08 Jul 2023  |  WRAL.com  |  English  |  Anti-LGBTQ Legislation

Republican attorneys general from seven states—Indiana, Arkansas, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, and South Carolina—have sent a letter to Target regarding their concerns about the retailer's Pride month merchandise, which they claim could violate child protection laws. The AGs argue that the campaign sexualizes children and may not be in the best interest of Target's shareholders, potentially breaching fiduciary duty. The Human Rights Campaign has criticized the letter as an attempt to intimidate those who support diversity and inclusion. Target has removed some Pride products due to threats but has not commented on the letter from the attorneys general.

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Human Rights Campaign

Murtala Kamara is a founder and publisher of Sierra Leone's foremost Arts and entertainment online and print magazine **** . He is also a freelance reporter for German International broadcaster Deutsche Welle. Kamara has worked with various local and international media outlets.

Sierra Leone Gears Up for Crucial Election

23 Jun 2023  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Economic Issues

Sierra Leone is preparing for a crucial election with incumbent President Julius Maada Bio and opposition leader Samura Kamara as the main contenders. The election, which follows a history of civil unrest, sees 3.4 million eligible voters choosing a new president, parliament members, and local representatives. Key issues include the economy, corruption, and living conditions. Campaigns have been mostly peaceful, but tensions are rising with opposition protests and calls for electoral commissioners to resign. The ECOWAS observer team is working to ensure a peaceful process. The election outcome is expected to be very close, potentially leading to a runoff if no candidate secures 55% of the votes.

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Campaign For Human Rights Development International Sierra Leone People's Party All People's Congress ECOWAS

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Leonie Kijewski is a journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

Fashion’s real victims: 10 years after Rana Plaza, EU scrambles to prevent future tragedy

23 Apr 2023  |  www.politico.eu  |  English  |  Legislation

A decade after the Rana Plaza disaster in Bangladesh, which killed over 1,100 garment workers, the European Union is drafting rules to enforce corporate responsibility in supply chains. The proposed legislation aims to prevent future tragedies by holding companies accountable for human rights and environmental violations. While the initiative has been broadly welcomed, critics argue it falls short in several areas, including the inclusion of workers' voices from the Global South and the reliance on for-profit auditing bodies. The article highlights the ongoing trial of Rana Plaza's owner, improvements in Bangladesh's garment industry, and the mixed reactions from various stakeholders regarding the effectiveness of the proposed EU rules.

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Clean Clothes Campaign Human Rights Watch European Union National Garment Workers Federation International Accord for Health and Safety

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Joe Lo is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom who is available to cover any event in London but specialises in politics and football.

UK's 'shady relations' with the UAE are nothing new

01 Oct 2023  |  The New Arab  |  English  |  Human Rights

The article reveals historical and ongoing 'shady relations' between the UK and UAE, focusing on a 1985 incident where the UK government faced pressure from the UAE to punish a newspaper editor for offending Abu Dhabi's rulers. It highlights the prioritization of trade deals over human rights and press freedom by the UK government, with commentary from various human rights organizations. The article also discusses the UAE's poor human rights record, including the arbitrary detention of critics and activists, and recent high-profile asylum cases involving members of Gulf royal families.

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Human Rights Watch International Campaign for Freedom in the UAE UK Government UAE Government Reporters Sans Frontieres Saudi-led coalition

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Fahim Mattoo is a journalist based in Srinagar and has done her honours in journalism from cluster university Srinagar

Shaken, not stirred: Trans people battle discrimination to rise above natural disasters

25 May 2023  |  www.prokerala.com  |  English  |  LGBTQIA Rights

Transgender individuals in Kashmir face significant discrimination and challenges in accessing relief aid during natural disasters. Despite the close-knit community's efforts to support each other, they struggle with financial and material aid, credit for repairs, and employment opportunities. The article highlights personal stories of discrimination during the 2014 floods, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the recent earthquake. It underscores the need for inclusive disaster management policies and the disproportionate impact of climate change on transgender people. Government officials emphasize standard guidelines, while activists call for a gender-sensitive framework.

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Human Rights Campaign Foundation Department of Disaster Management

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Alastair McCready is editor for regional magazine Southeast Asia Globe, based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. He is able to provide editing, photography and reporting, as well as contacts in country and across the region.

Dozens Dead as Myanmar Military Bombs Concert, Committing ‘War Crime’

25 Oct 2022  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Human Rights Violations

The Myanmar military conducted a deadly airstrike on a music concert in Kachin State, killing up to 80 people, including celebrities, in what rights groups have labeled a 'war crime.' The attack targeted a gathering celebrating the Kachin Independence Organisation's anniversary, escalating the military's ongoing brutal crackdown on ethnic and pro-democracy groups since the 2021 coup. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from international bodies and calls for increased sanctions against the junta. The National Unity Government and Human Rights Watch have highlighted the attack's violation of international laws, urging global action to cut off the junta's resources.

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Human Rights Watch Burma Campaign UK Myanmar Military Kachin Independence Organisation Kachin Independence Army National Unity Government People’s Defence Force

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Tasnim Nazeer is an award-winning journalist based in the United Kingdom. Tasnim freelances for a number of mainstream media outlets including Al Jazeera English, Huffington Post, The Guardian, BBC, CNN and many more. She was the first hijab wearing TV reporter in Scotland and does freelance TV ...

What do POC think about UK’s PM candidate Rishi Sunak?

22 Jul 2022  |  The New Arab  |  English  |  Representation

The article explores the perspectives of people of color (POC) in the UK regarding the candidacy of Rishi Sunak for Prime Minister. Despite a record number of POC candidates initially contesting, Sunak remains the only one in the final race. Many POC express skepticism about the candidates' ability to represent their communities, citing the Conservative Party's history of Islamophobia and xenophobia. The article highlights the importance of representation but questions whether POC candidates truly address systemic issues faced by ethnic minorities. Criticism is directed at Sunak and other candidates for their perceived disconnect from common and working-class backgrounds.

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Afghan Human Rights Foundation Labour Campaign for International Development Conservative Party Tory Party

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LISA SCHLEIN is a freelance journalist based in Geneva, Switzerland.  My reporting is largely centered around United Nations activities, including human rights, humanitarian (refugee and migration) issues, international political events, health, environment and development with a focus on Africa.  
...

Increase in Use of Land Mines Triggers Rise in Civilian Casualties

15 Nov 2023  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  War in Ukraine

The use of anti-personnel land mines by Russia and Myanmar has led to a significant increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine and Myanmar, according to a report by the International Campaign to Ban Landmines. The report highlights that Russia has extensively used these mines in Ukraine since its invasion in 2022, while Ukraine has also been found to use them in certain areas. Civilian casualties from land mines and remnants of war have surged, with children making up a significant portion of the victims. The report underscores the ongoing threat posed by land mines in various countries and the urgent need for increased resources to support victims.

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Human Rights Watch International Campaign to Ban Landmines Wagner Group

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Beatrice Siviero is a journalist and editor based in Vientiane, Laos. She has a background in law and journalism, and she writes about human rights, social issues, and children's rights in Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Timor-Leste and Cambodia.

Western fashion brands in Myanmar called out for worker abuse

06 Apr 2023  |  southeastasiaglobe.com  |  English  |  Fashion Industry

Garment workers in Myanmar face increased abuse and rights violations since the 2021 military coup, with multinational brands like ZARA, H&M, and Marks & Spencer implicated in the exploitation. Despite international sanctions, the military's oppression continues, with workers urging brands to withdraw from Myanmar to cut off the military's foreign currency income. Labour unions report worsening conditions, with the minimum wage halved and workers facing threats if they report abuse. Human rights organizations call for responsible exits by brands, but some, like H&M, remain hesitant. Meanwhile, other brands have announced their departure, and initiatives like the Clean Clothes Campaign provide guidelines for due diligence. The European Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar and the Myanmar Centre for Responsible Business advocate for continued engagement with improved working conditions, but labor representatives demand immediate withdrawal, prioritizing human rights over employment.

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Clean Clothes Campaign Business & Human Rights Resource Centre Industrial Workers’ Federation of Myanmar Confederation of Trade Unions Myanmar Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association European Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar Myanmar Centre for Responsible Business

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I'm a journalist based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. I regularly produce a 30 minute radio programme for the BBC World Service called CrowdScience ******. 
I also write long form articles on a wide range of subjects such as ****** 
and 
****** 
For much of my career I have worked on news desks, ...

US election: Trump wins first three battleground states

05 Nov 2024  |  www.dw.com  |  English  |  Kamala Harris

Donald Trump has secured victories in key battleground states Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia, strengthening his position in the 2024 US presidential election against Kamala Harris. Trump also won Florida, Ohio, Texas, and Iowa, while Harris claimed states like California and New York. European populists, including Björn Höcke and Viktor Orban, congratulated Trump on his success. Meanwhile, Sarah McBride made history as the first openly transgender person elected to the US Congress. The election remains closely contested, with ongoing vote counting in states like Michigan and Nevada.

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Human Rights Campaign Alternative for Germany

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