Shahira Amin is a journalist based in Cairo Governorate, Egypt. Print journalist - Feature stories, interview, research .  Broadcast Journalist _Interview, Live Phoner for Radio or TV , documentary film maker , fixer.  Speaks / writes fluent English.  Mainly reports on current affairs (politics, ...

Egypt’s epidemic of police violence and impunity

05 Oct 2023  |  Middle East Eye  |  English  |  Political Dissent

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's apology for a police officer's assault on a lawyer in Damietta is seen as insufficient amidst rampant police abuses in Egypt. Recent incidents, including the deaths of lawyers Imam Affifi and Karim Hamdy, have sparked nationwide protests. Reports indicate a severe deterioration in human rights since the 2013 military takeover, with widespread abuses against various groups, including lawyers, students, journalists, and activists. Human Rights Watch and other organizations highlight the impunity of security forces and the lack of accountability for mass killings and forced disappearances. Despite some efforts, such as the creation of a special police unit to combat violence against women, significant reforms are needed to address the systemic issues within Egypt's security sectors.

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Freedom for the Brave International Federation of Human Rights Human Rights Watch Egyptian Government Bar Association Muslim Brotherhood Socialist Popular Alliance Party

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Amindeh Blaise Atabong is an award-winning multi-talented journalist with intrinsic passion for investigative reporting, based in Yaounde - Cameroon. With close to six years of experience in print, radio broadcast and multimedia, he has uncovered and reported many ground-breaking stories.
Among his ...

Is press freedom stifled by the travel restrictions faced by African journalists?

19 Aug 2023  |  Equal Times  |  English  |  Visa Discrimination

African journalists face significant barriers to press freedom due to stringent visa requirements and travel restrictions, both within the continent and internationally. These obstacles hinder their ability to cover important events, access diverse sources, and advance their careers. Cases of journalists being detained, denied entry, or facing humiliating treatment at borders are common. The article highlights the need for international commitments to protect press freedom and calls for easier visa processes for journalists, emphasizing the disparity between journalists from the Global South and their counterparts in the Global North.

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International Committee of the Red Cross International Federation of Journalists Human Rights Journalists Network International Centre for Journalists Cameroon Tribune Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa Ministry of Communication Irish Times Foreign Press Association Africa United Nations

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Sam Bradpiece is a multilingual journalist based in Dakar Senegal. 

He has worked as a foreign correspondent for France 24 and field producer for CNN. 

He has written features and investigations for publications including NPR, The Washington Post, The Times and others. He also shoots photos ...

Ivorian Government Cracks Down Ahead of Presidential Election

13 Oct 2020  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Human Rights

President Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast is seeking a controversial third term, sparking political unrest and opposition protests. The government has cracked down on dissent, arresting human rights activists like Pulchérie Gbalet. The Constitutional Court, perceived as biased, has allowed Ouattara's candidacy while barring many opposition figures. Human rights organizations have criticized the government's actions, warning of potential violence and democratic instability. Despite the crackdown, opposition figures continue to call for civil disobedience, highlighting the tense political climate ahead of the presidential election.

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Amnesty International International Federation for Human Rights RHDP Constitutional Court

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First Thing: Trump faces more charges in classified documents case

28 Jul 2023  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Entertainment

Federal prosecutors expanded the indictment against Donald Trump, adding charges related to an attempt to destroy surveillance footage. Trump faces over three dozen charges, including violations of the Espionage Act. A Trump spokesperson criticized the charges as a desperate attempt by the Biden administration. In other news, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan held talks with Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, aiming for a diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East. Singapore executed Saridewi Djamani for drug smuggling, despite international outcry. The UK Ministry of Defence mistakenly sent classified emails to Mali. An analysis revealed racial and income disparities in air pollution exposure in the UK. Logan Paul and KSI's energy drink, Prime Energy, has captivated young fans. A Black prosecutor's election in Georgia led to a controversial judicial circuit split. Rightwing groups plan to dismantle US climate policy for the next Republican president. Hollywood faces a backlash against CGI, with recent films favoring practical effects.

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Amnesty International International Federation for Human Rights Biden administration US national security CIA White House Global Commission on Drug Policy UK Ministry of Defence Global Black Maternal Health Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Black Voters Matter Fund Heritage Foundation

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Milagros Costabel is a visually impaired freelance journalist based in Uruguay.

How the Canary Islands became Europe's latest migrant hotbed

25 Nov 2020  |  www.euronews.com  |  English  |  Human Rights

The Canary Islands have become a significant entry point for migrants from Western Africa, with a sharp increase in arrivals due to restrictions on other routes and the economic impact of COVID-19. The Spanish government has been criticized for inadequate preparation and management, leading to unsanitary conditions for migrants. Local businesses and residents are affected, with hotels housing migrants and fishermen assisting those in distress. Human rights organizations emphasize the need for better planning and respect for migrants' rights.

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Spanish Federation of Fisheries Human Rights Watch International Organization for Migration Spanish Government UNHCR

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Akila Jayawardena is based in Colombo. An independent photojournalist, visual storyteller, and artist. Akila represents the fourth generation of photojournalism in Sri Lanka.
Akila started his career in photojournalism in 2017 as a freelance photographer at Ceylon Today, one of the main English ...

Anatomy of a crackdown - The repression of Sri Lanka’s aragalaya protest movement

31 Jan 2023  |  Fédération internationale pour les droits humains  |  English  |  Economic Crisis

The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) has released a report documenting the suppression of protests in Sri Lanka, which began in early 2022 due to political and economic turmoil. The report, 'Anatomy of a crackdown - The repression of Sri Lanka’s aragalaya protest movement,' details human rights violations by the military, police, and pro-government groups against peaceful protesters. It highlights the use of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and harassment, including the misuse of emergency powers and the Prevention of Terrorism Act. The report, supported by the Sri Lankan NGO Center for Human Rights and Development (CHRD), is based on interviews with 42 individuals involved in the protests. It comes ahead of Sri Lanka's Universal Periodic Review by the UN, where human rights records are evaluated. FIDH Secretary-General Adilur Rahman Khan has expressed concern over the government's approach to handling protests and calls for international vigilance.

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Center for Human Rights and Development International Federation for Human Rights

Seda Karatabanoglu is a journalist and content creator based in Istanbul, Turkey. She writes about journalism ve current in Journo, NewsLab Turkey, Talent Politan and Dazzle Your World. She received communication and justice training.

The Dynamics of Iranian Media: Media as a Tool of Suppression

05 Jan 2023  |  NewsLabTurkey  |  Turkish  |  Human Rights

Iran, a neighboring country, has undergone significant changes since the 1979 Islamic revolution, leading to severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms. The death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, after being detained by the Morality Police for not adhering to hijab rules, sparked widespread protests against the mandatory hijab and broader government oppression. The protests have resulted in numerous deaths and arrests, including journalists. Iran ranks among the worst countries for press freedom, with state-controlled media often used to suppress dissent. Independent media is not legally allowed within Iran, leading many to rely on international and social media for information. The Iranian government frequently blocks internet access and threatens journalists, even those abroad. Corruption is rampant, with journalists who expose it often facing severe penalties. The ongoing protests are seen as a potential revolution, with calls for international support for the Iranian people's fight for human rights.

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International Federation for Human Rights Iranian Government Islamic Republic

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

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Faisal Mahmud is a journalist with over a decade of experience in working with three national English daily newspapers of Bangladesh—The Independent, Dhaka Tribune and The Business Standard.  Before switching his career to professional journalism, Faisal worked in the IT industry for two years. He ...

Long wait for families of Bangladesh forced disappearance victims

26 May 2019  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Human Rights Violations

Families of victims of forced disappearances in Bangladesh, primarily opposition members and activists, continue to seek answers and justice. Organized by Mayer Daak, these families gather to share their grief and press authorities for information. Reports by human rights organizations accuse state actors, including the Rapid Action Battalion, of involvement in these disappearances, suggesting they are used as political tools by the ruling Awami League to silence dissent. Despite denials from law enforcement, the families remain hopeful for the return of their loved ones.

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International Federation for Human Rights Human Rights Watch Mayer Daak Bangladesh Nationalist Party Awami League Rapid Action Battalion Odhikar

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Rafiullah Mandokhail is a journalist based in Quetta, Pakistan, has been associated with English Daily DAWN, Daily The Frontier Post, Daily Pakistan Observer Islamabad, Balochistan Times Quetta and Daily Nawa-e-Waqt since 2009

Coal dust casts a pall over children’s health in Pakistan

01 Oct 2023  |  arynews.tv  |  English  |  Environmental Pollution

Children in Duki, Balochistan, are suffering from severe respiratory illnesses due to coal dust from nearby mines. Despite coal mining being a significant source of revenue, the health and safety measures for miners and their families are inadequate. Local health practitioners report high rates of asthma and tuberculosis among children. The Mines Labour Welfare Organization and other regulatory bodies are criticized for failing to provide necessary healthcare and enforce safety regulations. The article highlights the urgent need for better health facilities and environmental controls to protect the vulnerable population.

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International Union for Conservation of Nature Human Rights Commission of Pakistan National Labour Federation Mines Labour Welfare Organization Mines and Minerals Development Department Balochistan

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Wallace Mawire is a journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe.

SADC civil society intensifies efforts to review abortion care legislation

05 Oct 2023  |  www.downtoearth.org.in  |  English  |  Public Health

Civil society organizations in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are collaborating to review abortion care legislation to address the high number of unsafe abortions. The Southern Africa AIDS Dissemination Service is leading the 'My Choice, Our Choice' campaign, supported by various CSOs. Key findings indicate that only South Africa and Mozambique allow abortion on demand in the first trimester, with varying restrictions in other SADC countries. The African Commission on Human and People’s Rights and the WHO have called for the decriminalization of abortion to ensure safe practices. Recent global developments include France enshrining the right to abortion in its constitution.

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International Federation for Gynaecology and Obstetrics African Commission on Human and People’s Rights Southern African Development Community Southern Africa AIDS Dissemination Service World Health Organization Genderlinks Southern Africa Gender Protocol Alliance Women’s Action Group Safe Abortion Alliance of Southern Africa

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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.

Just 2 Meth Pills Could Soon Be Enough to Classify Drug Users as Dealers in Thailand

02 Feb 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Public Health

Thailand's Ministry of Public Health has proposed new regulations that would classify anyone found with more than one meth pill as a drug dealer, subjecting them to harsh penalties. This marks a significant shift from the country's recent focus on prevention and treatment. Critics, including drug reform advocates and human rights organizations, warn that the new regulations could exacerbate prison overcrowding, increase corruption, and undo years of progressive drug policy. The proposal follows a tragic incident involving a former policeman, which has intensified the government's crackdown on drugs.

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International Federation for Human Rights International Drug Policy Consortium Ministry of Public Health Association to Promote Access to Health and Social Support

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Maya Misikir is a freelance journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She has experience working for print as well as broadcast, radio and TV. She mostly covers current affairs for VOA but also writes in-depth analysis for other publications.

The only way out is through

29 Jul 2024  |  sifter.substack.com  |  English  |  Labor Rights in Central Ethiopia

The article discusses Ethiopia's Transitional Justice Policy, highlighting its goals, challenges, and the need for public participation and international expertise. It also covers the recent mudslides in Southern Ethiopia, the liberalization of the foreign exchange market, security issues in the Amhara region, and labor strikes in Central Ethiopia. The Transitional Justice Policy aims to address past injustices since 1995, focusing on criminal accountability, truth-seeking, and institutional reform. The Ethiopian government has liberalized the foreign exchange market, leading to a significant devaluation of the Birr. Security tensions persist in the Amhara region, with the armed group Fano involved in the killing of elders. Health workers in Central Ethiopia are striking due to delayed salaries.

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International Federation for Human Rights United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Ethiopian Human Rights Commission Ministry of Justice National Bank of Ethiopia IMF World Bank Fano

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Onai Mushava is a journalist and creative writer based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He was awarded the National Arts Merit Award (NAMA) for Outstanding Fiction Book and nominated as Outstanding Print Journalist in 2018 and for the inaugural Outstanding Poetry Book prize in 2020. Senior writer for This Is ...

King Mswati III’s government under fire for the “targeted killing” of people’s hero Thulani Maseko

27 Jan 2023  |  thisisafrica.me  |  English  |  Pro-Democracy Protests

The article reports on the assassination of Swazi human rights lawyer and democracy advocate Thulani Maseko, who was shot dead in his home by unidentified gunmen. The killing has been widely condemned by various human rights organizations and defenders across East and Southern Africa, who are calling for justice and accountability from the Eswatini government and King Mswati III. Maseko was known for his activism and legal challenges against the monarchy, including his imprisonment for contempt of court and his lawsuit against the king for changing the country's name. The article highlights the climate of repression in Eswatini and the broader regional response to Maseko's death, with calls for action from the African Union and SADC to address human rights abuses and support democratic reforms in the country.

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Lawyers for Human Rights (Swaziland) Centre for Human Rights Feminist for peace rights and justice centre Coalition For Grassroots Human Rights Defenders-Kenya Women Human Rights Defenders Hub -The Hub United Nations African Union SADC Institute for Security Studies Social Justice Centers HRD Network Uganda Africans Rising Defenders Coalition The African Agenda Forum Tribeless Youth Red Vests Movement Protection International Africa PUSSY POWER MOVEMENT Freedom Movement Uganda HAKI Africa Mzalendo Halisi Foundation Kongamano La Mapinduzi Bunge Mashinani Initiative Grassroot Defenders Focus- Uganda Mathare Social Justice Center Law Society of Kenya Social Justice Centers Working Group University of Pretoria Makerere University South African Federation of Trade Unions Law Society of South Africa Media Institute of Southern Africa International Commission of Jurists American University Washington College of Law

Newsweek Europe chief international correspondent 2014-2015; TIME magazine correspondent and bureau chief 2001-2013 in Hong Kong, South Asia and Africa. Longform specialist; frequent TV and radio contributor; author of three books (the latest, The Rift, out 2015/2016) and numerous ebooks; award ...

From Nuremberg to now: How a war crimes trial in Sweden is changing legal history

25 Dec 2024  |  www.politico.com  |  English  |  Corporate Accountability

The article discusses a landmark war crimes trial in Sweden involving former executives of Lundin Oil, accused of complicity in atrocities in Sudan. This case, under the principle of universal jurisdiction, marks a significant moment in legal history, reminiscent of the Nuremberg trials. The article highlights the evolving landscape of international law, where corporations are increasingly held accountable for human rights abuses. It also explores the broader context of global corporate justice, with France emerging as a leader in prosecuting companies for international crimes. The challenges of lengthy legal processes and the impact of such trials on victims and global justice are underscored.

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International Federation for Human Rights International Court of Justice International Criminal Court Sudanese Government French Supreme Court

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Freelance journalist covering human rights and everything in between. I have worked with The Guardian, BBC, Euronews, Open Democracy, France 24, Center for Investigative Reporting (CIN) Sarajevo and Radio Free Europe. I currently contribute to NewsMavens, OZY and Equal Times.

The Dayton Generation: Bosnia and Herzegovina's Youth Facing a Future Abroad

16 Nov 2020  |  Equal Times  |  English  |  EU Membership

The article discusses the challenges faced by the 'Dayton generation' in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), particularly focusing on the steep population decline and the emigration of young, educated individuals. It highlights the complex political system imposed by the Dayton Peace Agreement, which has led to a decentralized government and difficulties in areas such as healthcare and education. The article features personal stories of young Bosnians like Amila Omanović and Nermin Mameledžija, who express their frustrations with the system and their intentions to seek better opportunities abroad. It also touches on the economic factors driving emigration, such as high youth unemployment and low wages, and the potential impact of BiH's EU membership aspirations. The article suggests that without significant changes, BiH will continue to face a brain drain and political stagnation.

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European Court of Human Rights OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina German Institute for Employment Research International Organization for Migration (IOM) United Nations Republika Srpska University of Banja Luka Democratization Policy Council

Shaikh Azizur Rahman is a journalist based in Kolkata, India. He has produced news stories, features and multimedia reports for several global media outlets, including the Guardian, Voice of America, New York Times, London Telegraph, Sydney Morning Herald and Toronto Star.

Imprisonment of Top Rights Activists in Bangladesh Triggers Global Outrage

16 Sept 2023  |  Voice of America  |  English  |  Political Repression

In Bangladesh, human rights activists Adilur Rahman Khan and Nasiruddin Elan of the organization Odhikar were sentenced to two years in prison for a report on extrajudicial killings by government forces. Their trial has been criticized as politically motivated by international rights groups, including Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights and Amnesty International. The Odhikar report contradicted the government's death toll in a 2013 protest, leading to criminal charges against Khan and Elan. Despite the prosecution's failure to prove charges, according to the defense, the activists were convicted and plan to appeal. The verdict comes amid a crackdown on opposition and political tensions ahead of the general election. Global rights organizations have condemned the ruling and called for the activists' release, highlighting the case as part of a broader pattern of repression in Bangladesh.

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Balsillie School of International Affairs International Federation for Human Rights Amnesty International Human Rights Watch Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights United Nations U.S. State Department Asian Legal Resource Centre

Matthias Raynal is a freelance journalist based in Tunis, Tunisia. Correspondant of the French Radio RTL in Tunisia.
He writes also for French newspapers and websites.

Guinea: Stadium Massacre - The Escape That 'Cracked' the Trial

14 Nov 2023  |  fr.allafrica.com  |  French  |  Security

On September 28, 2022, a historic trial for mass crimes began in Guinea, focusing on the 2009 Conakry stadium massacre where over 150 people were killed. The trial faced a significant disruption on November 4, when an armed commando facilitated the escape of four key accused, including former junta leader Moussa Dadis Camara. While three were recaptured, Claude Pivi remains at large, raising security concerns among victims and legal representatives. The escape has led to increased security measures and an ongoing investigation into potential complicity within the military and prison staff. The trial, set to resume on November 13, will likely address the implications of the escape, which has cast a shadow over the judicial process.

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Guinean Organization for the Defense of Human Rights and Citizens (OGDH) International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) Guinean Government Association of Victims, Parents and Friends of September 28, 2009 (Avipa)

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Samuel Woodhams is a Researcher at the digital rights group and VPN comparison website, Top10VPN. Based in London, United Kingdom, he writes at the intersection of technology and politics, with a particular focus on internet shutdowns, digital rights and disinformation. His work has been featured ...

Sisi's brutal crackdown continues, aided by western accomplices

06 Oct 2023  |  The New Arab  |  English  |  Authoritarianism

The article highlights the ongoing human rights abuses in Egypt under President Sisi's regime, including torture and mass detentions, and criticizes Western governments for their complicity through continued support and provision of surveillance technology. Despite international laws and human rights obligations, countries like the US, UK, and France are accused of prioritizing economic and security interests over human rights, thereby enabling the authoritarian regime. The article calls for Western governments to condemn these abuses and halt the sale of repressive technologies to Egypt.

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International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) Amnesty International Human Rights Watch UN US Congress

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Cyril Zenda is an African freelance journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe. His work, which covers southern Africa and focuses on development, social justice, human rights, climate change and the environment, has appeared in several international publications such as TRT World Magazine, African ...

Pro democracy activist's assassination in Eswatini sparks uproar

21 Jan 2023  |  www.fairplanet.org  |  English  |  Assassination

The assassination of Thulani Maseko, a prominent human rights advocate in Eswatini, has sparked significant outrage and condemnation. Maseko, known for his pro-democracy stance, was shot dead in his home, an act widely seen as a confirmation of threats made by King Mswati III. Various human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and the International Federation for Human Rights, have condemned the killing, calling it a chilling reminder of the dangers faced by activists in Eswatini. The Eswatini government has denied any involvement, while international bodies like the United Nations and the European Union have called for an impartial investigation. The incident has intensified calls for political reform in the kingdom, which has been under Mswati's authoritarian rule since 1986.

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Centre for Human Rights International Federation for Human Rights Amnesty International United Nations US embassy European Union Southern African Development Community Southern Africa Litigation Centre

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