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Hainan, often referred to as "China's Hawaii" due to its tropical climate and beautiful beaches, has the potential to become a top tourist destination in Asia. However, it has been slow to reach that goal due to an economic downturn. After years of struggle, the tallest building in Hainan province, which was once abandoned, is now close to completion and serves as a symbol of the island's recovery efforts. Real estate sales in the area are picking up, signaling a positive turn for Hainan's tourism industry. Nearly all of the 16 million square meters of unfinished construction in Hainan following the economic crash has either been completed or demolished. Investors are now returning to the island, which is shifting towards a focus on becoming a top tourist destination to rival Thailand's beach resorts. Numerous luxury resorts are opening, and plans are in place to improve infrastructure, expand air links, and promote foreign language studies. Vice Governor Chen Cheng emphasized the importance of tourism in Hainan's development strategy. "It's very appealing," stated Ian Zheng, the Managing Director of the Pacific Alliance Asia Opportunity Fund, which has a $150 million investment in the company that owns Hainan's main airports and is also involved with a Beijing real estate firm operating in Hainan. "I do not anticipate any significant risks." If the island's beautiful coast does not immediately attract a large number of international beachgoers, the growing number of domestic tourists will likely support the industry. The vast Chinese market is a major attraction for the resorts, as they aim to capitalize on the millions of people who have benefited from the country's economic growth and are increasingly embracing Western lifestyles and aspirations. "Some estimates suggest there will be 450 million middle class Chinese in 10 years," noted Peter Pedersen, the general manager of Banyan Tree Sanya. "I believe Sanya has a great deal of potential." The recent opening of luxury resorts by major hotel operators in Sanya, including the Ritz-Carlton and Banyan Tree, shows a significant shift for Hainan, previously known for inexpensive package tours. Sanya is emerging as a top tropical destination in Asia, particularly as the only tropical island in China. Pedersen shared this perspective with Reuters. "It is increasingly popular in both the local and international tourism markets. It is an ideal location," he remarked while standing on the top of one of the resort's private pool villas, priced at around 5,000 yuan per night. Hainan, once a test-tube for development after becoming China's youngest and most economically liberal province in 1988, saw its economy grow rapidly to the point where enthusiastic officials even attempted to sell the city's main park to developers. While other coastal provinces flourished, Hainan struggled. Now, Hainan appears to be regaining stability, but analysts and investors caution that existing imbalances and conflicts could disrupt the island's recovery. In Haikou, the capital city, about 60 percent of newly built apartments are being purchased as second homes by non-locals, which Mayor Xu Tangxian admits is a problem. Xu mentioned in an interview that there are areas where all the homes have been sold, but remain unoccupied at night. Even though the majority of tourists in Hainan are from mainland China, with only 750,000 overseas visitors compared to 18 million last year, the government is striving to attract wealthy foreigners to enhance the island's reputation and economy. The provincial tourism bureau chief, Zhang Qi, stated last month that the goal is to bring in 20 well-known international hotel management groups within five years, and increase the number of five-star, internationally recognized resorts to 60 or more. With developers eagerly eyeing the tourism growth, reports of typical scandals are starting to surface. In Longqiao, a rural township near Haikou, the red earth is being plowed to create golf fairways. Local residents claim that officials persuaded them to sell their land for the development of a golf course. Tensions rose in April when rumors spread that the government had sold the land to the developer for a much higher price than what the locals received, leading to an angry mob overturning a police car. Subsequently, police reportedly used tear gas to disperse a crowd that had gathered in a nearby schoolyard. In the city of Sanya in southern China, there are concerns about bottlenecks and corruption causing delays and difficulties for investors. One Western investor mentioned facing significant challenges due to high levels of corruption. Despite these obstacles, there is still strong optimism about the potential for tourism in Hainan. The issues in Sanya are seen as just the beginning of a much larger problem. According to Pedersen from Banyan Tree Sanya, the island of Hainan remains quite large, with beaches stretching almost all the way to the capital Haikou. The island has a diameter of 350 km, and the possibilities are endless. | 4 |
The author of a well-known report on global warming stated that India is likely to be more severely affected by climate change compared to other countries. This could result in poor agricultural output, increased natural disasters, and higher death rates due to an increase in diseases. Nicholas Stern, a former World Bank chief economist, warned that if greenhouse gas emissions remain unchecked, global temperatures could rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius within the next 50 years. Speaking to Indian businessmen, Stern highlighted the potential impact of changing monsoon patterns on India's economy, as the country heavily relies on these rains for crop production. He mentioned possible scenarios such as varying starting dates for the monsoon, periods of intense rainfall, and extended dry spells. He stated that it is probable that there will be disruptions. It is evident that India will face similar consequences as the rest of the world, possibly even more severe. Experts predict that if temperatures rise by 2 to 3.5 degrees Celsius, India could experience a decrease in agricultural revenue by nine to 25 percent. Agriculture contributes approximately 22 percent to India's GDP. Stern also mentioned that with temperature increases, diseases transmitted by vectors such as malaria and dengue fever could spread to higher altitude areas where mosquitoes were previously not found. The head of Britain's Economic Service warned that the melting of Himalayan glaciers could lead to increased deaths and decreased productivity. He also stated that this could result in serious floods in neighbouring Bangladesh due to rising sea levels, causing mass migration into India. Additionally, he noted that the reduced flow of water from the glaciers during India's dry season would have significant impacts. Experts predict that the melting glaciers will affect a large portion of the world's population, particularly those in the Indian subcontinent, with the Ganga river alone sustaining over 500 million people by receiving 70 percent of its summer water flow from the Himalayan glaciers. Stern noted that India was advancing in addressing challenges related to reducing emissions and supporting clean development mechanisms. He highlighted that climate change was an unfair process, with wealthier nations needing to shoulder the responsibility as they are responsible for 75 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. He emphasized that poorer countries would be disproportionately affected by climate change. Stern stressed the importance of all countries being involved in addressing climate change, but emphasized that richer nations should bear the majority of the costs due to equity considerations. | 4 |
British charity Oxfam has emphasized the importance of achieving quick results at the upcoming UN climate talks in Cancún, Mexico. Oxfam highlighted the increase in weather-related disasters, record temperatures, flooding, and rising sea levels in 2010 as evidence that negotiators need to reach a resolution. According to Oxfam's report, around 21,000 people died as a result of weather-related disasters in the first nine months of 2010, more than double the number of casualties in 2009. The report's author, Tim Gore, stated that the human impacts of climate change in 2010 demonstrate the urgent need for progress in Cancún. The text also mentioned that Oxfam is advocating for a fair Climate Fund to ensure that the most vulnerable parties receive funding. The organization is emphasizing the importance of women in helping communities adapt to climate change and has recommended prioritizing them in fund allocation. It has suggested that countries explore new ways to raise funds, such as taxing unregulated international aviation and shipping emissions, and implementing a tax on financial transactions at banks. Oxfam believes that quicker action will reduce the cost of addressing climate change, noting that every dollar spent on adaptation could prevent $60 worth of destruction. Gore has stated that the outcome of the Cancun conference will not fully address the global response needed for climate change. It has the potential to produce results that will positively impact impoverished individuals. A crucial accomplishment would be the establishment of a equitable climate fund, as this would also aid in restoring confidence and getting the negotiations back on course. | 4 |
In an interview with bdnews24.com from Glasgow during the final hours of negotiations at the COP26 summit on Friday, the Bangladeshi scientist stated that they are not willing to give in to our demands and are trying to block everything. Despite this, he emphasized that they will continue their efforts to push for their commitments until the end. Huq, who is the director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development in Dhaka, has participated in all 26 COP meetings since the first one in Berlin in 1995. The promised emissions cuts by the largest climate polluters are expected to result in a dangerous 2.7-degree Celsius increase in global temperatures, significantly surpassing the more ambitious 1.5C goal of the Paris agreement endorsed by scientists. Wealthy nations, which had pledged to provide $100 billion annually from 2020 to assist developing countries in transitioning to cleaner growth and adapting to climate risks, have now postponed meeting this target until 2023. A new draft agreement released during the closing hours of the Glasgow talks called for a two-fold increase in funding to help developing nations address climate impacts, and urged countries to enhance their emissions reduction targets by next year. However, much of the draft text, aimed at facilitating a consensus among all nations, remained contentious due to disagreements over funding, the pace of emissions cuts, and the inclusion of the term "fossil fuels" in the agreement for the first time. These differences, evident after lengthy negotiations, suggest that reaching a comprehensive agreement as advocated by activists and scientists prior to the UN talks will be challenging. The scientific community agrees that in order to prevent the worst effects of global warming, the world must reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost half by 2030. However, current targets set by countries would result in emissions continuing to increase. Professor Huq expressed determination to continue working towards an agreement, stating that the battle is not over and they will not give up. The United States and China recently announced a partnership to increase collaboration in addressing climate change, with plans to reduce methane emissions, decrease coal consumption, and preserve forests. A joint declaration on climate change by China and the US marks a return to a time when the two largest carbon emitters came together to help create the Paris Agreement in 2015. However, more action is needed from both countries to address the worsening climate crisis, including reducing fossil fuel use and encouraging other nations to do the same at the COP26 talks in Glasgow. While Professor Huq welcomed the agreement, he noted that there are still unanswered questions and emphasized the importance of both countries working together to combat pollution. The announcement lacks specific details, leaving uncertainty about what has actually occurred. Delegates and negotiators from Bangladesh, a country highly susceptible to climate impacts, shared their perspectives at various levels of the talks, both privately and publicly. The focus is on negotiation and what can be gained from different governments, as richer nations are reluctant to give easily. This is described as a challenging battle. | 4 |
Australia is one of the highest per capita carbon emitters in the world due to its reliance on coal-fired power. The conservative government, led by the new deputy PM, is hesitant to commit to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, citing concerns about job losses in the fossil fuel industry. Despite acknowledging the economic importance of coal and other fossil fuels, the government is urged to engage in a more honest and rational discussion about Australia's best interests. The UN has proposed phasing out coal by 2030 in OECD countries, including Australia, but a recent meeting of G20 energy and environment ministers did not reach an agreement on phasing out coal by 2025. Some experts believe that there is potential for progress at the UN climate talks in Glasgow in November. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has indicated that Australia is working towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions, but has not specified a timeline. He has mentioned that Australia will revise its 2030 emissions projections before the Glasgow talks. Unlike Australia, many other developed countries have committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Hart suggested that the Australian government should take advantage of the opportunity and transition to renewable energy sources. He stated that if coal is not quickly eliminated worldwide, climate change will cause widespread damage to the Australian economy, affecting industries such as agriculture, tourism, and the services sector. | 4 |
The Constitutional Court invalidated the election on Friday, leading to the chairman of the Election Commission stating that it would take months before a new vote could be conducted. This situation has left Yingluck in charge of a weakened caretaker government with limited authority. The ongoing crisis is part of an eight-year conflict between Bangkok's middle class and royalist establishment on one side, and supporters of Yingluck and her brother Thaksin Shinawatra, who was removed as prime minister by the military in 2006. Thaksin is currently living in Dubai to avoid imprisonment for abuse of power. Despite showing restraint for several months, Thaksin's "red shirts" supporters are starting to become more aggressive under new hardline leaders. An upcoming major assembly is being planned for April 5. Jatuporn Prompan, chairman of the "red-shirts" United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship, informed supporters that the destination for their upcoming event, whether it be Bangkok or elsewhere, will be revealed at a later time. Jatuporn was a key figure in organizing a "red-shirts" uprising against a previous government, which resulted in a violent military crackdown in May 2010, leading to the deaths of over 90 people in central Bangkok. Jatuporn still faces terrorism charges related to the violence in 2010. In the current political crisis, 23 individuals have lost their lives and more than 700 have been injured since November. Speaking to approximately 10,000 individuals in Pattaya, located to the southeast of Bangkok, another leader named Nisit Sintuprai issued a warning to Suthep Thaugsuban, the former opposition politician who has been leading protests against Yingluck since November. Nisit stated, "We are mobilizing once again to convey to Suthep that the majority of this country desire democracy and governance through elections. We refuse to accept a prime minister chosen by your group." Suthep's People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) is advocating for unspecified electoral reforms before any election takes place, with the goal of reducing the influence of Thaksin and his strong support among the rural poor in the north and northeast regions. Political parties associated with Thaksin have emerged victorious in every election since 2001, and it is widely predicted that Yingluck's Puea Thai Party would win in any election conducted under the current system. There is a looming possibility of impeachment for Prime Minister Yingluck due to disruptions by Suthep's supporters during the election on February 2. The Constitutional Court deemed the ballot illegal as voting was not held uniformly across the country on the same day. The Election Commission will convene on Monday to determine the next steps, with reluctance to hold a new election due to the political climate. Yingluck's caretaker government faces challenges, including potential impeachment for negligence in a failed rice-buying scheme. This plan helped increase Yingluck's popularity in the 2011 election, but this year, many farmers who typically support Thaksin have protested in Bangkok due to not receiving payment for their rice. Yingluck is facing scrutiny from an anti-corruption commission and could potentially be impeached soon after. If removed from office, the Senate, which is expected to have an anti-Thaksin majority after an upcoming election, may appoint a "neutral" prime minister as demanded by anti-government protesters. Analysts believe that independent agencies are working to remove Yingluck and her cabinet in order to create a power vacuum and influence the appointment of a preferred prime minister. He mentioned that if they proceed with this plan, the government's supporters will retaliate and the second half of the year will be worse than the first half. Violence negatively impacts the economy. Despite the decrease in protesters and calm streets, the government ended the state of emergency on March 19. However, there were three grenade explosions near a Constitutional Court judge's home before the election ruling, a car bomb near a PDRC camp in north Bangkok, and near a government administrative complex disrupted by protesters. There were also explosive incidents in Chiang Mai province, a Thaksin stronghold, resulting in serious injuries. One target was Boon Rawd Brewery, which produces Singha beer. One of the family members who owns the business has been active in PDRC rallies. Consumer confidence is currently very low, leading the central bank to revise its economic growth forecast for 2014 from 3 percent to 2.7 percent. Last October, before the protests began, the forecast was 4.8 percent. The stock market did not react significantly to the court decision on Friday. Some stock analysts view the cancellation of the election as a potential positive development, as they believe it could encourage negotiations between political rivals. Standard and Poor's, a rating agency, expressed a different opinion. According to Agost Benard, the associate director of sovereign ratings, the decision made by the Thai court is likely to prolong and potentially escalate political risks in Thailand, further complicating the resolution of the country's political divide. | 4 |
Farhad Saffi is feeling disheartened as he looks at his Milli Boot Factory in Kabul, where expensive machinery once produced boots for police and army, now covered in plastic sheeting. The factory, which provided jobs and showcased local manufacturing in Afghanistan, was considered a symbol of hope. However, the Afghan government's decision to source boots from China and Pakistan instead of supporting local businesses has led to the downfall of Milli. Saffi was promised contracts until 2014 by the US government but was abruptly informed of cancellation by the Afghan government, leaving him with $30 million worth of unusable raw material. When the plant opened, Afghan and US generals were eager to have their photos taken with a local success story inside large white sheds that were once used for PVC piping machinery but now house high-tech German injection molding and boot-making equipment. In 2010, US Navy Rear Admiral Kathleen Dussault visited to award 23-year-old Saffi with a quality certificate for the plant, enabling it to supply top-quality boots to the Afghan National Security Forces under contracts worth up to $40 million annually. Saffi's leather boots, which went through thorough quality testing in the US, were priced at $62 per pair, while Chinese-made boots with imitation leather cost the Afghan government $22 per pair in a contract for up to 700,000 pairs per year. Saffi explained that the Afghan government prioritizes the lowest price, despite his production costs being higher. He voiced his frustration as he looked at a room filled with leather and raw materials purchased from Taiwan, stating that the government requested him to sell the boots for $15 per pair, even though the leather alone cost him $40. The Chinese boots made of fake leather are not durable but inexpensive. Between 2002 and the end of 2011, Afghanistan received $85.5 billion for reconstruction, and $57 billion in international aid. NATO-led forces have been following "Afghan First" rules since 2010, which require them to prioritize purchasing from local companies to support the economy, create jobs, and support anti-insurgent efforts. Afghan businesses have received contracts for uniforms, boots, textiles, furniture, tents, software, and transformers, creating 15,000 jobs and saving $650 million on imports for combat-related expenses. Despite these efforts, the war in Afghanistan is estimated to cost $200 million a day. The Afghan First Policy aims to prevent local individuals from joining the Afghan Taliban fighters by providing them with better job opportunities and higher incomes. This strategy, known as the $10-a-day Talib, refers to the payment offered to potential fighters. With the withdrawal of most NATO combat troops in 2014, some of the 700 workers laid off from Saffi's factory are considering joining the Taliban due to lack of other options for employment. They believe that reopening the factory is crucial to avoid resorting to joining the Taliban for work. "We need to provide for our families," stated Ares Khan, 23, as he prepared some of the final boots to be made by Milli unless the government has a change of heart. Employees at the factory were earning between $400 and $900 per month, which is significantly higher than the average income in a country where a large portion of the 30 million residents live below the poverty line. However, there is concern among businessmen and workers that security will deteriorate once Western forces leave, resulting in a loss of job opportunities and investment. This has been a trend in Afghanistan for many years, as the wealthy elite have moved their money to safer locations. Khan's friend, Khair Mohammad, who moved from Ghazni province to Kabul, where NATO forces are currently involved in a major offensive, also believes that there is no future outside of insurgency if the Afghan government stops providing jobs. "I am the only breadwinner for my family of sixteen," Mohammad stated. Mohammad stated that upon returning to Ghazni, he would need to join the Taliban due to the high cost of living. The decision to allocate a significant portion of procurement to the Afghans was made in March as part of the transition to Afghan security and control. US Navy Lieutenant Aaron Kakiel, a logistics officer for the NATO-led coalition in Afghanistan, mentioned that this decision was made to hand over responsibility to the Defence and Interior Ministries. Kakiel stated that Afghan companies have provided a wide range of goods and services for the country's security forces, including boots, uniforms, sleeping bags, construction, and IT services. The security forces are expected to reach a total of 352,000 members. Milli is not the only company facing difficulties due to the shift towards local procurement, as other suppliers of uniforms and equipment are also feeling the impact. Another company executive, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed concerns about the uncertainty surrounding their supply contracts, as they have invested heavily in their business but are unsure if the government will continue to contract with them or choose companies from other countries. Lieutenant-General Abdul Basir Asafzari, in charge of logistics and procurement at the Ministry of Defence, expressed concern about the company's reliance on imported materials from the US for products manufactured in Kabul. He emphasized the importance of securing contracts to avoid having to lay off employees. Currently, only 30 percent of the supplies come from Afghan companies, and President Hamid Karzai has urged the military to prioritize local firms. Asafzari explained that Milli had contracts terminated due to importing substandard boots from China and other countries, which were then falsely labeled. Consequently, the company failed to meet its obligations. According to Asafzari, there were complaints from soldiers regarding the quality of the boots. However, Mohammad Akbar Ahmadzai from the NGO Building Markets, which supports entrepreneurs in developing countries, confirmed that Milli's boots were genuine and met US quality standards. Some business experts, speaking anonymously, suggested that Milli and others may have faced challenges due to corruption and political connections, with better-connected competitors working to undermine them. NATO's Kakiel mentioned that Milli and others may have also misunderstood the contract provisions, which guaranteed only one year of sales. In 2011, US agencies contracted over $4 billion to Afghan companies out of a total of $17.3 billion through the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. More than 90 percent of the money was spent on goods purchased from Afghan vendors (49 percent), construction (28 percent), support services (11 percent), and transportation (6 percent). However, an audit conducted by the US government's Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) in January revealed that the Afghan First Initiative (AFI) had issues with insufficient contract solicitation and vetting, as well as limited data on the employment benefits claimed. Saffi, who returned to Afghanistan in 2002 after fleeing during Taliban rule to find everything destroyed, expressed doubts about both the US government and the future promised by Karzai due to his experiences. He stated, "We tried to do a good job here in this factory, but right now this has happened. The only judgment we can make is that my company and the country are going the same way." He mentioned that many people in Kabul's business community were feeling anxious due to the unstable investment environment and worsening security situation. This feeling was strengthened by a bold Taliban attack on the city center and surrounding areas in mid-April. Saffi explained that he had to hire 30 personal bodyguards to ensure his children's safety at school and had police snipers stationed on the roof of his home. He compared the struggles of his company to the challenges facing the country, saying that just as he is the president of his company, Karzai is the president of the country. As his company faced closure and declining success, he noted that his employees were also leaving. The country will experience the same thing. The president is responsible for leading his country. | 4 |
The United States is being urged to join other wealthy nations in setting a 2020 goal for reducing greenhouse gases in order to improve the chances of reaching a climate deal at the upcoming Copenhagen conference. The Danish hosts emphasized the importance of the United States taking action during a meeting in Barcelona. African countries threatened to leave the Barcelona talks unless rich nations committed to more ambitious emissions reductions. The head of the UN Climate Change Secretariat stressed the necessity of a specific target from the United States at the Copenhagen conference. President Barack Obama, addressing reporters at the White House, emphasized the crucial nature of that particular element in the puzzle. He expressed optimism for a significant agreement in Copenhagen but cautioned that it may not address every issue related to the topic. Obama noted that while the deal may not solve all problems, it represents a crucial step forward and sets the stage for further progress in the future. Unlike the European Union and other developed nations, the United States has not yet established a concrete target for reducing emissions by 2020. Democrats in the US Senate are moving forward with legislation in a key committee on Tuesday, despite a boycott by minority Republicans. The proposed legislation aims to reduce US carbon dioxide emissions by 20 percent from 2005 levels. However, even if the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee approves the bill in the coming weeks, it is uncertain if it will be passed by the full Senate this year. Delegates at the Barcelona talks expressed concern about the limited time to resolve issues related to sharing emissions reductions between wealthy and developing nations, as well as finding funding to assist developing countries in addressing climate change. The inclusion of forests in the discussions is adding further complexity to the negotiations. Prime Minister Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow will emphasize the importance of considering Russia's forests' capacity to absorb carbon dioxide. After discussions with Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, Rasmussen expressed hope to have enough progress to invite world leaders to the December conference. Australia reported a decrease in emissions last year, excluding the impact of forest fires. Both Denmark and the European Union urged Obama to take more action to facilitate an agreement at the upcoming talks. Danish Climate and Energy Minister Connie Hedegaard questioned how Obama could receive the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo on Dec. 10 and simultaneously send an unprepared delegation to Copenhagen, just a few hundred kilometers away. Swedish Environment Minister Andreas Carlgren, whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, acknowledged a significant and genuine shift in the American stance, but believes more progress is necessary. The US delegation in Barcelona, led by Jonathan Pershing, emphasized their commitment to a UN agreement and highlighted various initiatives under Obama aimed at advancing clean energy and reducing emissions. Pershing stressed the importance of the US being a part of the Copenhagen deal, noting that the US is the second largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally, after China. Antonio Hill of Oxfam reported that African nations are pushing for stronger emissions reductions from developed countries. He also mentioned that Gambia, Ethiopia, and Algeria expressed support for leaving the UN talks. In a demonstration outside the conference center, protesters placed hundreds of ringing alarm clocks to emphasize the urgency of reaching an agreement to combat the increasing impact of climate change. | 4 |
US prosecutors are seeking to have Meng Wanzhou, the Chief Financial Officer of Huawei, extradited to face allegations of deceiving banks about the company's operations in Iran, potentially violating US sanctions. Meng, the daughter of Huawei's founder, was arrested in Vancouver on Dec 1 and maintains her innocence, stating she will fight the charges if extradited to the US. The bail hearing has been postponed to Tuesday to further discuss the issue of who will take responsibility for Meng if she is released, with her lawyer proposing her husband as surety. The judge and the public prosecutor raised concerns about Meng's husband's ability to fulfill his duty since he does not reside in British Columbia, where Vancouver is located, and would not face consequences if she violated her bail conditions. Meng's arrest has caused turmoil in markets due to fears that it could worsen tensions between the United States and China, which are already high due to tariffs. Both countries have agreed to trade negotiations that must be finalized by March 1. Beijing has demanded Meng's immediate release and warned of "consequences" for Canada, but officials from both China and the US seem to be avoiding connecting her arrest to the trade dispute. Meng's attorney proposed offering C$14 million in property equity and C$1 million in cash as a guarantee, while the public prosecutor requested half of the guarantee to be in cash and half in property. During the proceedings, the judge questioned Meng's avoidance of travel to the United States since 2017, suggesting it may have been to avoid arrest. Martin argued that Meng stayed away due to the "hostile" attitude towards Huawei in the US, prompting him to ask the court to consider what reason Meng would have to flee. Martin stated that the evidence against her was not very strong. He mentioned that if she were to escape or violate any orders, it would not only be embarrassing for herself but also for China. Meng initially seemed calm and collected in court, smiling and walking with her lawyer. However, as the day progressed, she became more nervous, talking quickly and gesturing as she spoke with her legal team. She has requested to be released due to her severe hypertension and concerns for her health. Huawei is the leading provider of telecommunications network equipment globally and the second largest producer of smartphones, generating approximately $92 billion in revenue last year. Despite being a major Chinese technology company, Huawei conducts a significant portion of its business internationally. US authorities claim that Huawei attempted to utilize banks to transfer funds out of Iran, which is prohibited as companies are not allowed to use the US financial system to support sanctioned entities. Huawei and its legal team maintain that the company adheres strictly to all relevant laws, regulations, and sanctions imposed by the United States and other jurisdictions. The company stated on Monday that they will keep track of the bail hearing scheduled for tomorrow. They believe that both the Canadian and US legal systems will come to a fair decision. | 4 |
Sánchez resides in Rincón, a coastal town in northwestern Puerto Rico known for its surfing and sunsets, and has become a popular destination for wealthy investors seeking tax benefits. Despite his one-story home not being for sale, numerous offers have been made by visitors interested in purchasing it, with some even handing him a blank check to fill in the amount he thinks the house is worth. This surge in investors is occurring in various picturesque towns across Puerto Rico, with some taking advantage of tax incentives aimed at attracting new residents and investments to the financially struggling island as it emerges from bankruptcy. The popularity of tax breaks increased due to the coronavirus pandemic causing many companies to transition to remote work, prompting mainland Americans to move to warmer climates. However, the arrival of wealthy new residents, who must establish residency and purchase property in Puerto Rico within two years to maintain the tax breaks, has led to higher home prices and the displacement of long-time residents. Hurricane Maria, which devastated thousands of homes in 2017, had already driven many people away from the island. The real estate boom, starting in San Juan, has spread throughout Puerto Rico, with investors moving from the city to smaller towns like Rincón. In addition to those seeking tax breaks, there are also other newcomers purchasing properties and driving up rental prices and home values. However, the finance and tech investors who have officially applied for tax-break status are the ones garnering the most attention. Among them are cryptocurrency traders, who now gather for weekly happy hours at a seaside bar in Rincón. A new barbecue food truck that started operating in August accepts various cryptocurrencies for its mainland-style chicken. The slow spread of gentrification is causing concern among many Puerto Ricans, who are increasingly vocal about how an economy reliant on tax breaks for the wealthy can benefit local residents struggling to afford property. Gloria Cuevas Viera, a Rincón resident fighting against gentrification, likened the situation to Hurricane Maria putting a 'For Sale' sign on the island. A large number of investors purchase residential properties and later sell them at increased prices or convert them into short-term vacation rentals, transforming whole neighborhoods into Airbnb hotspots and causing a lack of available housing for local residents. Forty-three percent of Puerto Ricans live below the federal poverty line. Israel Matos, aged 45, is being forced to relocate from his home in Rincón by March as the property was sold by the owner last year. Matos had the opportunity to purchase the house, but the option expired. The owner, who hails from Hermosa Beach, California, opted to sell to another buyer. Matos, a sound engineer for a television station, has been living in his home with his wife and two daughters for two years, but he is struggling to find a suitable listing in Rincón within his budget. Many Puerto Ricans are facing the same challenge as outside investors purchase properties and raise prices, making it difficult for them to afford staying in their homes. Matos expressed the pressure and difficulty of being a father in this situation, never imagining he would struggle to find a place to live with his daughters. Many Puerto Ricans are being forced out of their homes due to rising property prices caused by outside investors. Demonstrators in Old San Juan recently protested tax breaks given to wealthy individuals like Bitcoin billionaire Brock Pierce, who has converted a children's museum into a "crypto clubhouse." The tax breaks, known as Act 60, were initially enacted in 2012 as the island faced economic collapse and gained more attention after Hurricane Maria hit in 2017. In 2019, the tax incentives were revamped in order to attract investors in finance, technology, and other industries. Those who relocate to Puerto Rico can take advantage of reduced income taxes on various financial gains and services. A billboard in Silicon Valley promotes Puerto Rico as a tech center aligned with investors' goals. By October 2021, the island had received a record 1,349 applications from individuals seeking residency through investment, with 982 approvals. Since 2012, over 4,286 applications have been approved, with over 35% approved in the last three years. According to the law, an individual can be eligible for tax breaks if they have not been a resident of Puerto Rico for at least 10 years prior. In order to benefit from a 4% corporate tax rate and zero capital gains tax, the investor must also purchase a home. However, the more than 3 million current residents of Puerto Rico are not eligible for these tax breaks, leading to concerns about inequality in tax responsibilities. Heriberto Martínez Otero, the executive director of the Ways and Means Committee in the Puerto Rico House of Representatives, expressed these concerns. He also noted that renters who are being priced out of coastal areas may move to cheaper neighboring towns, but will likely spend more on commuting expenses such as gas and tolls. Martínez Otero, who is also an economics professor at the University of Puerto Rico, highlighted these issues. Homeowners who sell their properties are benefiting from the increase in property prices, according to Gov. Pedro R. Pierluisi, who expressed support for investors purchasing luxury homes. The passing of a tax law was partly motivated by the collapse of the luxury real estate market, with the intention of attracting individuals with capital to boost the real estate sector. Policymakers were also concerned about the significant number of people leaving the island due to the economic crisis and Hurricane Maria, leading to an 11.8% decline in Puerto Rico's population from 2010 to 2020, as reported by the census. Martínez Otero mentioned that the issue of people purchasing residential properties that do not align with consumption patterns in Puerto Rico is adding to the island's affordable housing problems. Many Puerto Ricans are finding it increasingly difficult to afford to stay in their homes due to outside investors purchasing properties and driving up prices. Sánchez, a homeowner in Rincón, who posed as a landscaper, is involved in coordinating the town's federal Section 8 program, which aims to provide affordable housing to low-income families. The program offers families $450 monthly vouchers for housing, but he is struggling to find homes at that price. An oceanside gathering spot in Rincón, Puerto Rico on January 13, 2022, has become unaffordable for many Puerto Ricans due to outside investors purchasing properties and increasing prices. In rural areas like the mountains, property prices are also rising, causing concern among locals about being displaced. Real estate broker Ingrid Badillo Carrero noted that home prices in Rincón have significantly increased over the past four years, with a two-bedroom condo that would have been listed at an average of $290,000 in 2017. Currently, the unit could now be priced around $420,000, with the average annual income in Rincón being about $19,900. Badillo, who often works with investor clients looking for tax breaks, has had locals accuse him of selling out their country. Many investors can pay in cash, which is more appealing to sellers compared to Puerto Ricans who may only be able to pay through a mortgage. In May, Elizabeth Stevenson relocated to Puerto Rico with her husband, Tyler McNatt, from Austin, Texas. They wanted to find a way to avoid going to the office every day, so they started exploring cryptocurrency investments as a source of income. Stevenson, a beneficiary of Act 60, is working as a consultant for a California movie producer now living in Puerto Rico, in addition to trading cryptocurrency. Stevenson mentioned that there is a lot to learn and a lot of money to be made in the cryptocurrency market. She recently signed a one-year lease for an apartment near the beach and is involved in various cryptocurrency groups for former mainlanders that regularly hold events in Rincón. Daniel Torgerson, a crypto investor who relocated to Puerto Rico in June, organizes a weekly happy hour at the Aqua Marina Beach Club in Rincón. In early January, approximately 20 individuals gathered near the bar and pool, chatting under string lights and trying to be heard over the nocturnal coquí frogs. Torgerson inquired about everyone's feelings about the market that week and if anyone had any new projects they were enthusiastic about. Someone mentioned solar bitcoin mining. The newcomers are also bringing their children with them. Myriam Pérez Cruz, the principal at Manuel González Melo K-8 School in Rincón, mentioned that the school has had to include additional coursework for students who are learning Spanish as a second language. In the school year 2016-17, a student survey found three native English speakers who required help with Spanish, Pérez mentioned. By the school year 2021-22, this number had increased to 17 students. Matos, a resident of Rincón who needs to vacate his home by March, drove around searching for potential rental signs. Later, he went to the beach, sat on the sand with his legs crossed, and attempted to unwind. However, shortly after parking his car, he began to feel uneasy. Matos observed that out of approximately 50 people on the beach, he only saw around five Puerto Ricans, indicating a significant change in Rincón. | 4 |
Finance adviser AB Mirza Azizul Islam stated that if donor countries do not fulfill their ODA pledges, the millennium development goals will not be achieved. He also mentioned that official development assistance is crucial for the realization of these goals in many countries. | 4 |
Global institutional investors with over $6 trillion in assets are urging policymakers to quickly come to a binding agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support clean technology. Over 130 major investors, including the London Pensions Fund Authority, are calling for countries to commit to cutting emissions by 50-80% by 2050, aligning with the goals of US President-elect Barack Obama. They are also advocating for long and medium term emission reduction targets for developed nations and a more robust global carbon market. US investors, like the California Public Employees' Retirement System, have been advocating for legislation to advance clean technologies. They have also urged the US Securities and Exchange Commission to require publicly traded companies to disclose climate-related risks as well as other factors that impact their business. Mike Taylor, chief executive of London Pensions Fund Authority, stated that as institutional investors, they are worried about the risks posed by climate change to the global economy and their diverse portfolios. He emphasized the need for strong policies to support investments in low carbon projects. The group of global investors is pushing for a new binding agreement to follow the Kyoto Protocol, which mandated industrialized countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union has set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent and increase the use of renewable energy sources by 2020. The United States is the only major industrialized country that has not accepted the Kyoto Protocol, but is currently engaged in talks to create a new international agreement. Mindy Lubber, the president of Ceres, a coalition of investors and environmental organizations focused on climate change, believes it is important for the United States to be part of this agreement. A global group of investors is working to ensure their views are considered prior to a climate change convention in Poland in December. | 4 |
During the election campaign on Monday, opposition leader Anthony Albanese failed to address questions about unemployment and interest rates, shifting focus to economic opportunities post-pandemic. Prime Minister Morrison criticized Labour's economic management and lack of plan while campaigning in Parramatta. Polls indicated Labour was leading but Morrison was preferred as the country's leader. Albanese apologized for his mistakes and tried to regain control of the situation. He quoted Taylor Swift's hit song by saying he will "Shake it off" in response to reporters questioning whether the mistake would impact the election. Albanese stated that he takes responsibility for his actions and will admit to any mistakes he makes. Morrison highlighted his government's success in lowering the unemployment rate to 4% despite facing numerous challenges such as fires, floods, a pandemic, a global recession, economic pressure from China, and a war in Europe. Initially, Albanese mentioned that he believed the current unemployment rate was around 5.4%. Morrison stated that they have achieved success in their plans, particularly in creating jobs to strengthen the economy, referencing cricket as he discussed Australia's economic progress. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg mentioned that the new jobs would be spread throughout various sectors of the economy. It is expected that Australia's unemployment rate will drop to the 3% range, earlier than expected, with some economists even predicting it could be lower than the budget forecast of 3.75%. While wage growth is anticipated to increase, it may not be enough to keep up with inflation, resulting in a decrease in real incomes for the year. In order to appease unhappy voters, the budget in March raised a tax break for 10 million low- and middle-income earners and provided one-time cash payments for pensioners, along with a temporary reduction in fuel taxes. | 4 |
The G8 wealthy nations are interested in collaborating with the nearly 200 countries participating in UN climate change discussions to establish a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% by the year 2050, according to a draft communique. This document, which was obtained by Reuters before being officially approved by Group of Eight leaders at a summit in northern Japan, also emphasized the need for interim objectives to reach the long-term goal. The statement highlights the importance of the UN-led negotiations to develop a new framework for addressing global warming after the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012, while also glossing over disagreements within the G8. The UN discussions are slated to wrap up in Copenhagen in December 2009. The diplomatic language used in the climate statement, typically the most contentious part of summit talks, is unlikely to fully satisfy those advocating for more specific targets. Last year, the G8 group of wealthy nations, including Japan, Britain, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Russia, and the United States, agreed to "seriously consider" the goal of cutting global emissions in half by mid-century. The European Union and Japan have been pushing for this year's summit to set clearer targets, but US President George W Bush has insisted that the US cannot commit to binding targets unless major polluters like China and India also reduce their emissions. The European Union's leadership praised the climate change agreement reached at the summit, calling it a "new, shared vision" that keeps negotiations on track for a global agreement in 2009. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso stated that the summit in Japan had met the EU's criteria for success. Global warming is connected to other significant issues such as rising food and fuel prices, which are being discussed at a three-day meeting on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido. 21,000 police have been mobilized for the event. The leaders at the summit expressed concerns about the uncertainty and risks facing the world economy, including the impact of high oil prices. They also hinted at the need for China to allow its tightly controlled currency to appreciate in order to address global financial imbalances. Additionally, the group agreed to convene a world energy forum to bring together major oil producers and consumers to discuss output and prices. The surge in food and oil prices, reaching a record high of $145.85 a barrel last week, is having a severe impact on the world's impoverished population. A recent World Bank report predicted that as many as 105 million more individuals could fall below the poverty line due to the increase in food costs, including 30 million in Africa. World Bank President Robert Zoellick emphasized the importance of how the global community responds to this crisis, calling it a crucial test of the system's commitment to assisting the most vulnerable. In an effort to alleviate the situation, G8 officials announced plans to introduce various measures to aid Africa, particularly its farmers, and reaffirmed their pledge to double aid, providing an additional $50 billion by 2010, with half designated for the world's most impoverished continent. The summit concludes on Wednesday with a Major Economies Meeting that includes the G8 and eight other significant greenhouse gas-emitting countries, such as India, China, and Australia. | 4 |
OPEC will support efforts to combat climate change and maintain stable oil prices after its heads of state meeting concludes on Sunday. Currently, only Saudi Arabia has promised to contribute $300 million towards environmental research. Other leaders have not made similar commitments, with Algerian Energy and Mines Minister Chakib Khelil stating that they are not committing to anything until they know the full proposal. It appears that no other countries within OPEC have pledged financial support at this time. OPEC Secretary-General Abdullah al-Badri stated this week that OPEC would be willing to contribute to the development of carbon capture and storage technology in order to help decrease emissions. A draft final communique, as read by an OPEC delegate over the phone, mentioned that the group shares the international community's concern about the long-term challenge of climate change and aims for stability in global energy markets, without mentioning an environmental fund. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez anticipated that the summit would reaffirm a commitment to stable and competitive oil prices. He cautioned that if the United States were to attack Iran or Venezuela, oil prices could potentially double from the current $100 per barrel to $200 on the global market. Chavez conveyed this message to fellow heads of state, including Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, at the summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Concerns about a potential attack on Iran by the United States or Israel, due to suspicions of covert nuclear weapon development, have contributed to the increase in world oil prices. Despite calls for OPEC to increase crude supply to stabilize prices, a decision on this matter will be postponed until a meeting in Abu Dhabi on Dec. 5. Iran and Venezuela are reluctant to raise output, while Saudi Arabia has been more willing to comply with Western requests to lower prices. Ecuador's President, Rafael Correa, suggested at the conference that oil should be priced in a currency other than the dollar. The decline in the value of the U.S. currency compared to other major currencies has contributed to the rise in oil prices to $98.62 last week, while also diminishing the purchasing power of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. During the summit, Saudi Arabia led the group in rejecting a proposal by Iran and Venezuela to address concerns about the weakening dollar in the summit's official statement. Analysts believe that Saudi King Abdullah, a key U.S. ally and influential figure within OPEC, is eager to prevent leaders like Chavez and Ahmadinejad from overshadowing the summit with their anti-U.S. rhetoric. Despite Chavez's lengthy speech advocating for OPEC to combat global poverty, King Abdullah remained unimpressed and even joked with the Venezuelan president afterwards. The summit took place in a lavish hall adorned with crystal chandeliers and gold leaf decorations, as Chavez emphasized the importance of OPEC taking a leading role in fighting poverty worldwide. Ahmadinejad called for OPEC to take a more active role in geopolitics and to demand greater respect for their countries, while also urging powerful nations to stop threatening the organization. He stated that he would share his opinions on the matter at the end of the summit. In an attempt to ease tensions between the United States and Iran, Saudi Arabia proposed establishing a consortium to supply Iran with enriched uranium for peaceful purposes. Despite this offer, Iran has asserted that it will not cease its own enrichment activities. Concerned about Iran's potential nuclear capabilities, Gulf Arab countries, including OPEC members Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, have announced plans to launch their own nuclear energy programs. | 4 |
The finance minister, AMA Muhith, criticized donors for not fulfilling their aid pledges, attributing this failure to the country's ongoing struggle with poverty and other challenges. Muhith made these comments during the launch of a report on Bangladesh's progress towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals at Sonargaon hotel in Dhaka. He emphasized the importance of donor agencies fulfilling their pledges in order to reach the MDGs, which include reducing extreme poverty by half by 2015. Despite some progress on certain issues, the minister acknowledged that there are still obstacles to achieving the MDGs. He stated that the issue of malnourished children continues to be a significant concern. Muhith acknowledged that while progress has been made in solving sanitation issues, the problem of arsenic contamination still remains unresolved. In terms of economic growth, he noted that the country is performing well but lags behind neighboring nations. During the event, Planning minister AK Khandker and foreign minister Dipu Moni also shared their thoughts. Khandker emphasized the need for increased international assistance to combat the impacts of climate change in Bangladesh. Moni stated that natural disasters caused by climate change are hindering the country's development. She mentioned advancements in poverty reduction, women empowerment, primary education, and child mortality. Shamsul Alam, a member of the Planning Commission, presented the progress report. | 4 |
In his concluding statements at the ninth consecutive Global Media Forum, DW Director General Peter Limbourg emphasized the importance of European values. He highlighted that discussing these values with others provides a valuable reflection on what Germany and Europe hold dear, but acknowledged that there are instances where these values are not upheld, such as in the sale of arms, environmental pollution, and partnerships with corrupt regimes. Limbourg stressed the need for Germany and Europe to practice what they preach before advocating for these values to others. Over 2,000 participants from 110 countries gathered in the former West German capital for the three-day event. The conference focused on the theme of "Media. Freedom. Values." and discussed challenging issues that journalists encounter in various countries worldwide. The importance of the media, freedom of speech, and the preservation of values were all topics of consideration. German President Joachim Gauck delivered an inspiring message to conference participants, emphasizing the shared responsibility of journalists worldwide. He highlighted the abundance of information available today, but also the growing potential for manipulation and disinformation. Gauck stressed the importance of upholding reliable journalism to combat this issue. A notable moment at the Global Media Forum was when Sedat Ergin, editor-in-chief of Hürriyet, received the Deutsche Welle Freedom of Speech Award. Upon receiving the award, Ergin expressed concern about the increasing challenges to freedom of expression in various countries, including democracies. Diekmann emphasized the importance of press freedom and criticized the state of freedom of the press in Turkey. Some Turkish media outlets linked to the ruling party reacted strongly, highlighting the pressure on journalists in Turkey. The GMF also discussed the vital role of bloggers and activists in societies lacking true freedom of speech. Egyptian comedian Bassem Youssef visited Bonn to participate in the award ceremony for The Bobs, which are awards presented by Deutsche Welle to recognize the top international online activists and their efforts. German Commissioner for Human Rights Policy Bärbel Kofler was part of a panel discussion with bloggers from Bangladesh who have sought asylum in Germany and other European countries after being targeted by Islamist extremists and receiving no support from their government. The forum aimed to shed light on the plight of journalists facing danger in their home countries and the need for asylum. Journalist and author Martin Walker provided a somber assessment of the future of media. International speakers across multiple panels at the conference emphasized that the media are at a critical juncture. The increasing emphasis on direct communication with people globally via social media is creating new possibilities for journalism. DW's Director General Limbourg stated that this presents a chance for the media to make a real impact. | 4 |
Chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed emphasized the importance of industrialized nations providing climate adaptation funds to developing countries, which are the most affected by climate change, without any conditions. He also urged wealthier nations to transfer advanced technology to help developing countries improve their climate resilience. Fakhruddin stated that industrialized economies should offer adaptation funds and support technology transfer unconditionally. He further mentioned that developed nations, as the main polluters, have a vital responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within specified time frames. The SAARC Ministerial Meeting on Climate Change was initiated in Dhaka following a proposal by the city, as there are concerns about a significant portion of Bangladesh's land being submerged due to rising sea levels caused by global warming. The meeting is anticipated to approve a shared declaration on taking action to address climate change, which will impact the entire SAARC region including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The Maldives island chain is also at risk of being submerged due to rising sea levels. Fakhruddin emphasized the importance of SAARC countries uniting to urge developed nations to provide new resources to support their adaptation efforts. He also mentioned that Bangladesh is working towards establishing an international climate adaptation center to exchange knowledge and best practices. It is crucial for developed countries to make a unilateral and unconditional commitment to reducing their emissions. He emphasized the importance of taking action to combat climate change in order to protect ourselves from its dangers. Fakhruddin warned that climate change could have devastating consequences for millions of poor people, leading to floods, droughts, and salinity. He compared the potential impact of climate change to past tragedies like the Black Death and World War II. Fakhruddin urged against inaction, stating that we must act to prevent this catastrophe. SAARC Secretary-General Sheel Kant Sharma also stressed the need for developed countries to make binding commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within specific timeframes. The inauguration was overseen by Devasish Roy, the special assistant for environment to the chief adviser, and also featured remarks from Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, the foreign adviser. | 4 |
Coach Jorge Luis Pinto reassured that Colombia will not be defeated despite their 5-0 loss to Paraguay in the Copa America. Pinto emphasized that this setback is not a catastrophe, as it does not compare to uncontrollable events like natural disasters. He stated that Colombia has not been completely defeated in terms of footballing ability, tactics, or morale. Pinto emphasized that despite the loss, life goes on and the team will continue to work towards success. "We have not been defeated yet, we will respond." In their first Group C game on Thursday, Colombia controlled the game early on but missed a penalty in the 28th minute. Paraguay then took the lead two minutes later and Colombia struggled in the second half. Surprisingly, Colombia's defense had been solid leading up to the tournament, only allowing two goals in six games. Their next game is against Argentina on Monday, the favorites who started with a 4-1 win over the United States. Pinto stated that changes will be made, including variations in playing style and player selection. He also drew a comparison between the upcoming match and Colombia's victory over Argentina in a World Cup qualifier in 1993, noting similarities in the level of performance between the two games. | 4 |
A major global report launched on Tuesday urges wealthy nations to lead the way in reducing carbon emissions to avoid negative impacts on health, education, and poverty reduction for the world's poor. The UN Human Development Report (HDR) 2007-08, titled "Fighting climate change: Human solidarity in a divided world," also calls on developed countries to offer incentives to developing nations to address the challenge of climate change. The report, prepared by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Synthesis Report, highlights the urgency of taking action within the next ten years, as discussed in upcoming climate change negotiations in Bali, Indonesia. The report warns that if action is not taken soon, temperatures could rise above two degrees Celsius, leading to the disappearance of Himalayan glaciers that are crucial sources of water and food for more than two billion people. The lead author of the report, Kevin Watkins, stated that the carbon budget of the 21st century is being overspent and could run out by 2032. He emphasized that the poor, who have the smallest carbon footprint and the least resources to protect themselves, will be the first to suffer from the effects of climate change caused by developed countries' high levels of energy consumption. The report calls on the wealthiest nations to take responsibility by reducing emissions by 80 percent by 2050 and investing $86 billion annually in international adaptation efforts to help vulnerable populations. The report suggests that developed countries should implement a new system to transfer clean energy technology to developing countries. It mentions that investing in this initiative can protect assets during flooding and argues that developing countries, especially rapidly growing nations like China and India, should also reduce emissions by 20 percent by 2050. The UNDP administrator emphasizes the importance of expanding access to affordable energy while reducing carbon emissions, and stresses the need for international cooperation to achieve climate and energy security. The report also proposes the creation of a Climate Change Mitigation Facility, funded by developed countries, to encourage developing nations to pursue sustainable development. Watkins emphasizes that rich countries must provide proper financing for technology transfer to poorer countries as a requirement for addressing their carbon footprint. The pathway for the Bali conference on 'Fighting climate change' outlines a detailed checklist for world leaders, urging a binding post-2012 multilateral agreement to combat climate change and protect vulnerable populations. This includes reducing emissions from developing countries by 20% by 2050 and from developed countries by 30% by 2020 and at least 80% by 2050 compared to 1990 levels. Additionally, it calls for the establishment of a Climate Change Mitigation Facility to fund low-carbon energy investments in developing countries, enabling them to transition to cleaner energy sources and commit to international emission reduction targets. This would require an annual investment of $25-50 billion. Additionally, setting a fair price on carbon can be achieved through a mix of carbon taxation and a widespread implementation of cap-and-trade programs globally. Furthermore, enhancing regulatory standards involves implementing and enforcing stricter efficiency guidelines for vehicle, building, and electrical appliance emissions. Encourage the growth of low carbon energy sources, acknowledging the untapped potential for expanding the use of renewable energy and the necessity of investing in innovative technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS). Dedicate $86 billion, equivalent to 0.2 percent of the combined GDP of northern countries, to developing climate-resilient infrastructure and enhancing the ability of disadvantaged communities to withstand the impacts of climate change. Incorporate adaptation into all strategies aimed at reducing poverty and extreme inequality, including poverty reduction strategy papers. Acknowledge the importance of carbon sequestration in forests and land in future global agreements, and support international financial transfer plans for deforestation, as proposed by Brazil and other countries. | 4 |
South Korea, the fourth largest economy in Asia, has committed to selecting one of three targets for carbon emissions by 2020, joining Kyoto signatories in the effort to combat climate change. The government announced that it will decide on a 2020 gas emission target this year, with options including an 8 percent increase from 2005 levels, remaining unchanged from 2005, or a 4 percent reduction below 2005 levels. South Korea is a wealthy nation and a major industrial player in Asia. Emissions in the country doubled from 1990 to 2005, with per-capita emissions of carbon dioxide in 2005 at 11.1 tonnes, putting it on par with some European countries and ranking as the 17th largest among OECD members. Sang-hyup Kim, Secretary to the President for National Future and Vision at the Presidential Office, noted that the targets may seem modest in comparison to those set by developed countries. However, these efforts are of the highest sincerity and demonstrate Korea's capabilities. The government has estimated that each target will require between 0.3 and 0.5 percent of GDP, and will involve the increased use of hybrid cars, renewable and nuclear energy consumption, energy efficiency through the use of light-emitting diodes and smart grids. Developed nations, who are obligated by the Kyoto Protocol to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, are facing pressure from developing countries to increase their emission reduction targets as part of a larger climate agreement being negotiated. These discussions will reach a conclusion at the end of the year during a major UN meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark. Wealthy developing countries like South Korea, Singapore, and Mexico are also facing demands to announce their plans for reducing emissions. South Korea's goals for reducing emissions are not as ambitious as those of countries like the United States and the European Union. Japan and the United States are targeting reductions of 15 and 17 percent, respectively, by 2020 compared to 2005 levels. The European Union and Britain are aiming for even greater reductions of 20 and 34 percent by 2020, compared to 1990 levels. China and other developing nations are calling for developed nations to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 percent by 2020 to prevent severe consequences of global warming like droughts, floods, and rising sea levels. | 4 |
A senior negotiator informed Reuters that China is willing to include its voluntary carbon emissions target in a binding UN resolution, which could potentially put pressure on developed countries to extend the Kyoto Protocol. The success of UN climate talks in Mexico's Cancun beach resort relies on reaching an agreement on solidifying national emissions targets beyond 2012 when the current round of Kyoto carbon caps expire. China's willingness to compromise is contingent on the United States agreeing to enforceable emissions reductions and an extension of the Kyoto Protocol, which currently applies to nearly 40 developed countries excluding the US. Developing countries are in favor of continuing the protocol, while industrialized supporters such as Japan, Russia, and Canada prefer a separate agreement that encompasses all nations. China had previously rejected the idea of making its domestic emissions goals legally binding, unlike industrialized nations. Huang Huikang, the Chinese Foreign Ministry's representative for climate change discussions, stated that a resolution could be crafted which would be enforceable on China. He mentioned the possibility of a legally binding decision under the UN Climate Convention and expressed willingness to consider different forms for this. He emphasized the importance of China's efforts being integrated into global initiatives and suggested that addressing concerns did not require scrapping the Kyoto Protocol and beginning anew. Jennifer Morgan from the World Resources Institute in Washington described the proposal as a significant development, calling it a "gamechanger." Alden Meyer of the Union of Concerned Scientists also expressed optimism, stating that while the details are important, this is a promising step forward. China's chief negotiator Xie Zhenhua later explained that China's targets could be aligned with the Convention, allowing developing countries to voluntarily commit to emission reductions using their own resources. Huang stated that China would not change its stance on insisting that new emissions targets be included in an extended Kyoto agreement. China has always maintained that its efforts to reduce emissions are only binding domestically and cannot be included in international agreements. Huang acknowledged that China is now willing to be fully part of the international effort and sees this as a compromise. However, he emphasized that when it comes to the Kyoto agreement, there is no room for compromise. Developing countries, such as China, the largest carbon emitter globally, made a commitment at a summit in Copenhagen to voluntarily take action to limit the growth of their emissions. China specifically vowed to decrease its "carbon intensity," which is the quantity of carbon dioxide released for each unit of economic growth. The goal is to lower this intensity by 40-45 percent by the year 2020 compared to levels in 2005. Huang suggested that this intensity target could be included in a resolution. | 4 |
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his disappointment with the progress on climate change made by the G8 leaders, stating that their commitments were not sufficient. He emphasized the importance of taking immediate action to combat climate change for the future of humanity and the planet. Despite the G8's agreement to cut emissions by 80% by 2050, Ban stressed the need for more substantial reductions sooner. President Barack Obama also acknowledged the need to bridge the gap with developing countries on climate change, following Ban's criticism of the G8's efforts. During the first day of a meeting of the G8 in L'Aquila, Italy, China and India did not agree to the goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2050. Obama, aiming to leave his mark on his first G8 summit by leading a meeting on the environment, expressed optimism that progress could still be made before the UN climate change talks in Copenhagen in December. Despite challenges, Obama was set to chair the Major Economies Forum (MEF) and work towards limiting global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, although specific emission cuts were not agreed upon. The absence of Chinese President Hu Jintao, who left to address clashes in China, hindered progress. Temperatures have increased by 0.7 degrees Celsius since the Industrial Revolution due to the widespread use of fossil fuels. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown expressed hope that all countries present at the meeting, including the United States, Japan, Germany, France, Britain, Italy, Canada, Russia, China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Indonesia, and Mexico, would agree on temperature targets. However, a G8 source mentioned that reaching a deal on emissions was not realistic. India emphasized that developing countries were looking to see plans from wealthier nations to provide financial assistance for dealing with the effects of climate change, such as floods, heatwaves, storms, and rising sea levels. Additionally, they are calling for richer nations to make more significant emissions cuts by 2020. The G8 countries reached an agreement to reduce global emissions by 50 percent by 2050, with the United States agreeing to this goal for the first time. They also established a target of an 80 percent reduction for developed countries collectively. However, Russia stated it would not be able to achieve this by 2050 and Canada's Environment Minister Jim Prentice referred to the 80 percent goal as an "aspirational goal." The summit also focused on the state of the world economy, with rich nations acknowledging significant risks to financial stability. China, along with Russia, India, and Brazil, used the second day of the summit to advocate for diversification of the global reserve currency system away from reliance on the dollar. State Councilor Dai Bingguo suggested the need for a more efficient system for issuing and regulating reserve currencies to ensure stability in exchange rates and promote a diverse international reserve currency regime. The G8 and G5 expressed hope for progress in the stalled Doha trade talks, aiming to conclude them by 2010. The Doha round, initiated in 2001 to aid developing countries, has faced challenges due to proposed tariff and subsidy reductions. The G5 pledged to address issues hindering the Doha talks, which would boost confidence in global markets, and called on wealthy nations to eliminate trade barriers and provide financial support to poorer countries. | 4 |
When a group of 96 individuals from China arrived at Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei, they realized they had fallen victim to a scam after paying significant amounts of money to participate in a music competition promising lucrative prizes. The con artist had deceived them with fake invitations from the city of Taipei, collected their entry fees, and abandoned them at the airport in mid-February. Some of the musicians were so upset that they refused to return home. Experts on crime predict that such fraudulent activities will escalate in Asia, especially in greater China, as the economic downturn prompts scammers to target those who are struggling and seeking a change in their fortunes. "We see an increasing number of victims due to the economic crisis," explained Chu Yiu-kong, a criminologist at Hong Kong University. Chinese individuals have a strong affinity for money, making them susceptible to financial traps. Additionally, they place great value on fortunate opportunities, particularly during challenging periods. As trade-dependent Asian nations struggle amidst a worldwide economic downturn, countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan are experiencing recessions. In response, many businesses in the region are reducing production, halting hiring processes, and letting go of employees to cut costs. Experts in criminology suggest that scam artists tend to flourish in such dire economic conditions. According to the police, scams that are expected to rise include job search fraud, fake money lending, and convincing people to pay large fees for fake lottery prizes or business opportunities. A recent popular scam involves tricking desperate job seekers in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China by pretending to be recruiters and asking for money to invest in the companies they are applying to. The companies and the money disappear by the time the job seekers try to follow up on their applications. As a result, people like Zhou Yang from Shenzhen, China, are wary of roadside job agencies as they are often deceived. According to local media reports, a scam artist in southern China managed to make 800,000 yuan ($117,000) last year by sending text messages from a mobile phone using a common Chinese name, claiming repayment of a debt. The victims, mostly individuals who already owed money to various people, fell for the trick and believed they were being pressured to pay back the debt. These types of scams only add to the hardships faced by those struggling financially. Chang Chin-lan, a prevention officer with Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Bureau, expressed concern that as deception crimes continue to rise - increasing by a third in Taiwan from 31,000 in 2007 to 41,000 in 2008 according to police statistics - people may become desperate and morals may decline. In the fourth quarter of 2008, Hong Kong police saw a significant increase in deception crimes, with cases rising from 1,071 to 1,414. Similarly, in Singapore, there has been a 10 percent increase in "cheating and related offences" from 2,917 cases in 2006 to 3,254 cases last year. The Singapore Police Force has warned of an expected rise in phone scams and other impersonation frauds due to the economic downturn. Advanced technology has also played a role in the growth of scams, allowing perpetrators to reach a wider audience and deceive people across borders. Costly hoaxes have become more common in Asia since 2001, with the emergence of the Internet and mobile phones providing anonymity and protection from the law in multiple countries. Tsai Tien-mu, a criminology professor at Taipei Police College, highlighted the role of technology in facilitating these scams. Tsai mentioned that it is now simple for people to communicate with each other, whereas previously the perpetrator had to physically encounter the victim. Due to the ease with which con artists can conceal themselves, law enforcement faces difficulties in solving fraud cases. In Taiwan, only 10 percent of cases are resolved by police officers. On the other hand, in Hong Kong, law enforcement is more focused on educating the public rather than pursuing individual con artists, according to Chu from Hong Kong University. Frequently, the scammers can be found in China, which makes it difficult for law enforcement in Hong Kong to apprehend them. According to Zhou, a job seeker from Shenzhen, the police in mainland China are not very helpful to those who have been deceived. Zhou mentioned that even if you are a victim of fraud, contacting the police is not effective as they rarely respond and provide assistance. | 4 |
The top climate change official at the UN urged the European Union to quickly devise strategies to assist developing nations in combating global warming in order to avoid a potential deadlock that could hinder global action. Yvo de Boer emphasized the urgency of this issue for all industrialized countries and stressed the need for increased support to help poorer nations reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. The agreement reached in Bali in December highlighted the necessity for a tangible increase in resources to address climate change effectively. This would encourage developing countries to shift their economies away from fossil fuels towards cleaner energy sources, with commitment from countries like China and India being crucial for wealthier nations, such as the United States, to take action on reducing emissions. The United States is currently not part of the Kyoto agreement, which complicates the situation further. This lack of engagement from developing countries makes it challenging for wealthier nations to progress in their efforts to combat climate change. The Climate Secretariat in Bonn is working on addressing the impact of climate change, such as heatwaves and floods. The EU is committed to leading the fight against climate change, as predicted by the U.N. Climate Panel to bring more extreme weather events in the future. One proposed solution for funding includes auctioning carbon emission rights in the EU and using the proceeds to support developing nations. Another option is to increase a levy on a Kyoto project that allows wealthy nations to invest in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries. De Boer emphasized the importance of EU budgets for research and development in addressing climate change, stating that without resources for developing countries, it will be difficult to engage them. He also called on French President Nicolas Sarkozy to finalize an EU package of climate measures during the French EU presidency in the second half of 2008. The EU Commission has proposed cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2020, increasing the use of renewable energy in power production to 20 percent, and utilizing 10 percent of biofuels in transport by 2020. De Boer stressed the need for the package to be completed under the French presidency so it can be presented to the European Parliament. France and Germany expressed concerns last week that the plan could put European jobs at risk. De Boer emphasized that the European Union must now fulfill its commitments by distributing the responsibilities. It is crucial for the EU's credibility on the international stage to provide clear signals on how the target will be met. To read more environmental blogs from Reuters, click on the link. | 4 |
Speakers at a conference at the London School of Economics warned about the significant environmental, ecological, social, and economic impacts of India's planned unilateral construction of the Tipaimukh Dam on the people of Bangladesh and northeastern India. The Voice for Justice World Forum in London called on the governments of Bangladesh and India to conduct a joint feasibility study before proceeding with the dam construction to find a fair and equitable solution to the potential environmental disaster. It was emphasized that India, as an upper riparian country, has a moral and legal obligation to consult with Bangladesh before building such a dam. The conference was chaired by Dr. Hasanat Hussain MBE, the Convenor of the World Forum of the Voice For Justice organization, and was commended by British treasury minister Stephen Timms for holding its world forum in London. He informed the conference that the British government will always support the oppressed worldwide and collaborate with organizations like VFJ to advocate for human rights and justice for the underprivileged. This event marked the first global gathering of VFJ, organized at the London School of Economics by a coalition of its European, US, Canadian, and Asian branches. Attendees included Bangladeshi academics, experts, VFJ members, and a diverse group from the British-Bangladeshi community in the UK. Abdul Moyeen Khan, former planning and science minister, and Sabih Uddin, former Bangladesh high commissioner to the UK, joined the discussion remotely. Concerns were raised about the potential construction of barriers on the rivers Surma and Kushiara, which could lead to a humanitarian crisis for millions of people reliant on these rivers. Dr K M A Malik from the University of Cardiff presented a paper on Climate Change in South Asia focusing on Bangladesh at the conference. Additionally, two separate papers were discussed on 'Rights of Migrant Workers in Gulf States' and 'Women's rights in Islam' by Dr Mahbub Khan from California State University and Hasan Mahmud, the director of Sharia Law of Muslim Canadian Congress, respectively. The speakers emphasized the importance of formal bilateral agreements between migrant-sending states like Bangladesh and migrant-receiving states in the Gulf to address the widespread allegations of human rights violations and dignity of migrant workers. The conference urged the governments of migrant-receiving countries to prioritize the human rights of migrant workers who significantly contribute to their economies and send remittances back to their home countries, despite receiving minimal wages, poor working conditions, and job insecurity. Hasan Mahmud's paper reaffirmed that Islam and authentic Sharia laws promote and protect women's rights in a fair and just manner. The misinterpretation and distortion of laws over time, influenced by social and cultural biases, have resulted in discriminatory treatment of women in many societies. Professor Anthony Booth from Christchurch University, Kent, UK, Prof. Shamsul Islam Choudhury from Roosevelt University, US, Dr. Abdur Rahman and Dr. Zakia Rahman from Limmeric University, Ireland, Dr. Stephanie Eaton from Kingston University, UK, Luthfur Rahman Choudhury, and joint convenors of the World Forum of Voice For Justice from various cities in the UK participated in the question and answer sessions at the end. | 4 |
Sayed Talat Kamal reports from Durban, South Africa that developing countries are expressing concerns that they are taking climate change more seriously than wealthy nations. The US, in particular, is criticized for not prioritizing key issues related to climate change. Delegates at the UN Climate Summit in Durban, as well as European representatives and the leader of the African bloc, have criticized the US stance. Mali delegate Seyni Nafo stated that developed countries are not treating climate change as a serious global issue, despite their leadership in other areas such as democracy, human rights, and market access. Nafo emphasized the need for the US to show leadership in addressing climate change. The EU's chief negotiator, Arthur Runge-Metzger, expressed concerns about the US delegation being hindered by the current US domestic situation, where climate change is seen as an unpopular issue. He noted that the Obama administration faces challenges in advancing climate change initiatives due to opposition in Congress. The US is seen as delaying negotiations by seeking conditions in the agreement that would legally require all countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. This has stalled discussions on how to raise the US$100 billion designated for helping poor countries transition to low-carbon economies and address the impacts of global warming. Climate change is caused by greenhouse gases trapping heat in the earth's atmosphere, resulting in higher global temperatures and leading to extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods, rising sea levels, droughts, erosion, and increased salinity. It is widely understood that a temperature increase of over 2 degrees Celsius would bring about irreversible climate change. According to global studies supported by the UN and the scientific community, in order to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees, global emissions need to be reduced to 40 percent of 1990 levels by 2020 and to 95 percent by 2050. It is also crucial that emissions do not peak after 2015. While the US does not support binding targets, it prefers voluntary commitments from countries to reduce emissions. The US has pledged to reduce emissions by 17 percent from 2005 levels by 2020, a commitment that is unlikely to change in the near future according to Jonathan Pershing, the US delegation chief. Runge-Metzger argues that even if all countries fulfill their voluntary pledges, it would only amount to about half of the emissions reduction needed to prevent a potential climate catastrophe. In a strong statement, Rene Orellana, leader of the Bolivian delegation, has firmly rejected the Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (Redd) initiative, emphasizing that Bolivia does not view forests as mere carbon stocks. Orellana highlighted the importance of forests for food security, water resources, and biodiversity for the indigenous population, stating that forests play a much larger role than just offsetting emissions through carbon credits. Redd stated that the forest's function is often simplified to just carbon stocks. Orellana criticized certain aspects of the Green Climate Fund, particularly the payment system based on results of eco-friendly projects. Despite recent political unrest in Bolivia, the country has remained steadfast in its environmental stance at the 17th conference of parties to the UN climate change convention. This year, Bolivia passed groundbreaking legislation granting nature the same rights as humans. Scientists warn that heat waves, which currently occur every 20 years, could become an annual occurrence due to rising greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Additionally, global warming posed a threat of inundation to coastal areas and islands, putting up to 250 million more people at risk of water scarcity within the next ten years. Advocates for climate action contend that stabilizing carbon concentration in the atmosphere would only slightly impede economic growth by 0.12 percent annually. However, they argue that the benefits of improved health, enhanced energy security, and more reliable food supplies would outweigh these costs. | 4 |
The state minister for the environment has criticized developed countries for their deceptive behavior when it comes to climate funds. Hasan Mahmud, speaking at a discussion on the upcoming climate summit, accused rich nations of making false promises and not following through on commitments to reduce carbon emissions. He pointed out that only a small percentage of the $30 billion pledged at the Copenhagen conference in 2009 had been paid out by 2011, despite the funds being designated for countries most affected by climate change. He pointed out that there is a deception involved, as the money claimed to have been given in 2008 is actually being counted as Fast Start Funding. The roundtable took place before an upcoming climate change conference in Durban, South Africa starting on Nov 28. The state minister mentioned that Bangladesh had suggested a central authority to allocate the funds during the conference. He also stated that it is important for funds to be allocated based on need rather than on the basis of countries having better relationships with donors. He mentioned that developed countries have not made significant progress in reducing carbon emissions and are therefore responsible for global warming. Hasan also pointed out that a person in Bangladesh emits 0.3 tonnes of carbon annually. The amount is 1.6 tonne in developing nations and 15-20 tonne in developed countries. He also mentioned optimism for the Climate Vulnerable Forum happening on Sunday, which will include United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon and prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The roundtable was led by Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation chairman Qazi Kholiquzzaman. | 4 |
According to bdnews24.com's environment correspondent Maruf Mallick, Bangladesh's state minister for environment expressed dissatisfaction with the EU's climate fund commitment in Copenhagen. The EU pledged 10 billion euro over three years to the climate adaptation fund, but Minister Hasan Mahmud questioned whether this was in addition to Official Development Assistance (ODA). Mahmud emphasized the importance of Annex 1 countries contributing 1.5 percent of GDP to the adaptation fund, which could potentially create a $400 to $600 billion fund. The state minister emphasized that the EU's proposal to raise funds for adaptation is insufficient to reach the total $400-600 goal. He stated that poor and vulnerable nations are steadfast in their demand for a separate climate fund, in addition to existing ODA, that is not controlled by financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank. He suggested the creation of a new institution that is easily accessible and transparent. Hasan emphasized that 70% of funds should go to least developed or vulnerable countries, with 15% specifically allocated to Bangladesh. He noted that over one billion people worldwide are vulnerable to climate change. Hasan mentioned that Bangladesh has initiated the formation of a new group for the most vulnerable countries, having already reached out to potential members. He stated that approximately 20 countries could be included in this new group. He mentioned that the UN recognises G-77 or LDCs in terms of economic development. He stated that they are aiming to achieve similar recognition for climate change. He emphasized the need to create a new group of vulnerable countries for improved negotiation. Hasan highlighted that Bangladesh is the most vulnerable country according to the Global Climate Risk Index, with 15% of the 1 billion most vulnerable people residing there. Fifteen percent of the adaptation fund is required to be allocated to Bangladesh, as it is greatly impacted by various aspects of climate change such as sea level rise and extreme weather. The country has a higher number of affected people compared to small island nations. A delegation from Dhaka held a discussion at the conference focusing on Bangladesh's status as a victim of climate change. Dr. Ainun Nishat, a climate expert, focused on how climate change affects food and agricultural production, water management, health, and infrastructure. | 4 |
Reinhart, who was promoted to a higher position within the bank in an effort to restore its credibility following ethics concerns, stated that certain key aspects of the new product had already been identified. These included a focus on greater transparency regarding the methodology used, an increased reliance on survey data from companies, and a reduced emphasis on ranking countries. Reinhart emphasized that all details of the product would be made public in order to enhance credibility. Additionally, the bank would place more importance on survey data to minimize subjective judgment and eliminate the competitive aspect of rankings that encouraged countries to manipulate the system. In September, the bank decided to stop releasing the annual "Doing Business" rankings due to concerns about data irregularities in the 2018 and 2020 editions. It was alleged that senior bank officials, including former CEO Kristalina Georgieva, who now leads the IMF, pressured staff to alter the data. A law firm is currently investigating potential staff misconduct related to these changes, which favored certain countries like China and Saudi Arabia. The IMF board supported Georgieva after examining the accusations, but she could still be implicated in the ongoing investigation. According to Reinhart, this situation has damaged the World Bank's credibility, and it will take time and effort to regain trust. She emphasized the importance of credibility being based on systems rather than personalities and mentioned that the bank has implemented numerous safeguards following external reviews in the past year. She stated that while nothing in life is completely guaranteed, measures can be put in place to reduce the potential for misuse and abuse. She hopes that credibility will ultimately be established, as credibility is hard to build and easy to lose. Reinhart initiated a thorough review of the Doing Business methodology by an external advisory panel in response to concerns about internal data manipulation in the reports. The scathing 84-page review that resulted called for various remedial actions and reforms, pointing out a pattern of government interference with scoring. It criticized the bank for lack of transparency regarding data and suggested it should cease selling consulting services to governments to improve their scores. This practice had already been stopped in 2020 and 2021, according to Reinhart. She mentioned that the bank would assess the wider implications of the scandal and determine necessary steps after the completion of the second WilmerHale report. Reinhart stated that they would address this issue once they had the full report available. | 4 |
Two British ministers arrived in Dhaka on Monday and stated that the UK will assist Bangladesh in protecting the interests of the least developed countries (LDCs) during the important Copenhagen climate negotiations in December. The assurance was given by Douglas Alexander, UK minister for international development, and Ed Milliband, responsible for energy and climate change, one day before prime minister Sheikh Hasina's trip to Geneva for the World Climate Conference-3. Alexander mentioned that they would discuss how the UK can support Bangladesh in representing the LDCs at the Copenhagen summit. The ministers also met with Hasina to talk about climate change and development cooperation between the two countries. Bangladesh holds the chair of the 50-member LDC Group, which includes countries most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change caused by emissions from developed nations. Wealthy nations, including the UK, are seeking to form a partnership with Less Developed Countries (LDCs) in order to urge economic powerhouses China and India to also commit to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. A new international legal agreement to decrease carbon emissions will be discussed at the upcoming UN meeting in Copenhagen, replacing the current Kyoto Protocol which only held developed countries accountable for emission reductions. The Bali climate talks in 2007 acknowledged the need for major emerging economies to reduce emissions. The alliance between LDCs and developed nations will increase pressure on China and India, who are now considered significant greenhouse gas emitters. "Bangladesh, being highly susceptible to climate change, provides valuable lessons and inspiration to other countries through its adaptation and risk reduction efforts," said Ed Milliband. He also stated that the UK is dedicated to assisting Bangladesh in facing these challenges. On Monday evening, the visiting ministers had dinner with foreign minister Dipu Moni at the state guest house Padma. The UK government's International Climate Champions Initiative in Bangladesh, launched by Alexander and Milliband at the British High Commission Club, aims to send 15 Bangladeshi youths aged 18 to 35 to the Copenhagen summit. The project, overseen by the British Council, seeks to raise awareness about climate change and its adaptation among young people. Interested candidates must submit proposals on climate change, and a panel led by Dr Atiq Rahman of the Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies will select the 15 participants. | 4 |
French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius, who is leading the U.N. conference, stated that he still intends to release a nearly finalized draft on Thursday afternoon in order to minimize disagreements and prepare for a final round of revisions. He expressed his goal of reaching a final agreement during a meeting with U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon before the talks resumed. Fabius emphasized the importance of completing an agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by Friday, the official closing date of the meeting, rather than extending the conference as done in the past. However, there are still disagreements among ministers and negotiators from 195 countries on key issues, such as determining which countries will provide the necessary funds to assist developing countries in transitioning to lower-carbon energy sources. The issue causing disagreement has heightened tensions between the US and China regarding the financial contributions of countries, as mentioned by US Secretary of State John Kerry. While the Chinese did not provide specific details, they indicated a willingness to compromise. The decision between 1.5 degrees or 2 degrees remains uncertain, with further discussions and revisions planned before a resolution is reached. Gao Feng, a Chinese negotiator, mentioned that more consultations with colleagues are needed before a final agreement is possible, possibly by Friday or Saturday. The discussions have also reignited disagreements on the level of ambition the deal should have in addressing the increase in the earth's temperatures. A significant group of developing countries are adamant that the agreement must include the long-term objective of limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels, even though the carbon emission reductions pledged by countries for the next decade fall far short of that target. Many participants are still haunted by the disastrous failure to reach a deal in Copenhagen in 2009, the last time the world attempted to agree on addressing climate change. Alex Hanafi, head of climate change strategy for the Environmental Defense Fund in the US, stated that there is a strong desire to reach a deal this time, but the question remains whether it will be a robust agreement or a weak one. Jose Ramos-Horta, a former president of East Timor and Nobel Peace Prize laureate who is part of his country's negotiating team, emphasized that no country should expect to achieve everything they want from a treaty. He informed Reuters that a treaty is not set in stone like the Bible and can be reviewed and potentially strengthened in the future, implying that the agreements made in Paris are not final. | 4 |
The initial UN special session on climate change, held on Tuesday, emphasized the responsibility of wealthy nations in reducing greenhouse gases. Economist Nicholas Stern highlighted the need for both developed and developing countries to take part in a global effort to reduce human-made emissions. Stern proposed a global target of a 50 percent reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050, with wealthier nations expected to make even larger cuts, aiming for around 75 percent reductions due to their historical emissions and greater access to resources. Stern, a former head of the British government's economic service now at the London School of Economics, suggested that responsibility for financing cuts in emissions in other countries may be necessary. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown also emphasized the need for industrialized nations to take greater action on climate change, acknowledging the disproportionate impact on the world's poorest populations. Sunita Narain, director of India's Center for Science and Environment, criticized the lack of real action from political leaders in addressing climate change. John Holdren, an environmental scientist at Harvard University, stated at a gathering that global climate change is responsible for droughts, floods, rising seas, and more intense storms, and cannot be attributed to natural climate variability. The United States, a major emitter of greenhouse gases, did not make a statement at the recent sessions and has rejected specific targets for reducing emissions, citing potential harm to the economy. Instead, Washington has advocated for voluntary rather than mandatory cuts in emissions. President George W. Bush, along with leaders from other industrialized nations, agreed in June to make significant reductions in climate-warming emissions and to negotiate a new global climate agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol after 2012. The two-day climate meeting at the United Nations is the first of its kind in substance and style, concluding on Wednesday. The event is environmentally friendly, as any emissions produced from air travel and the UN Headquarters building in New York are counterbalanced by supporting a biomass fuel project in Kenya. | 4 |
The hearing follows a series of sexual assault scandals and new Pentagon data showing a significant increase in unwanted sexual contact in the military, from groping to rape. The top uniformed officers of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard, along with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, appeared before the Senate Armed Services Committee together to demonstrate their commitment to addressing the issue. General Martin Dempsey stated that they are taking swift action to change a complacent climate. While some propose removing responsibility for prosecuting sex crimes from the victim's chain of command, many believe that maintaining the power of commanders is crucial to administering justice quickly and preserving unit cohesion. Despite criticism of the military's handling of past cases, there is a recognition that radical change is needed to address the increase in sexual misconduct cases. Senator John McCain expressed disgust over continued reports of sexual misconduct in the military, emphasizing the need for more than just talk on the issue. Senator Carl Levin, head of the Armed Services Committee, appeared understanding of military concerns about preserving the chain of command's power. Levin stated that only the chain of command has the ability to implement a zero-tolerance policy for sexual offenses. Additionally, only the chain of command is empowered to confront any issues in the command climate that promote or allow sexual assaults. | 4 |
A climate tribunal organized by Oxfam in Dhaka has placed blame on developed countries for the destruction of fisherfolk communities in coastal Bangladesh due to climate change. The tribunal, held at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, highlighted the responsibility of Annex-1 countries under the Kyoto Protocol for the hardships faced by these communities. The event, coordinated by the Campaign for Sustainable Rural Livelihood, aimed to explore legal avenues to protect victims of climate change. Testimonies from four climate victims, including housewives and fishermen, were heard by a jury panel headed by Mizanur Rahman of the Bangladesh Human Rights Commission. The committee also received input from two experts on climate change and international law in an attempt to draw connections between the scientific, national, and international legal aspects of climate change and the ongoing multilateral negotiations. Unfortunately, there is still no binding international agreement in place to ensure compensation for countries affected by climate change due to carbon emissions from developed nations, as stated by legal expert Ahmed Ziauddin. He mentioned that while Bangladesh could bring complaints to various international courts, there is currently no way for individual countries to seek damages. Ziauddin recommended including provisions for climate change in Bangladesh's constitution and noted the lack of a legal definition for climate change in the country. Climate change expert Ahsan Uddin Ahmed stated that developed nations frequently request specific accounts of damage caused by climate change in an apparent attempt to avoid their responsibilities. He emphasized that while the scientific evidence behind climate change is undeniable, it is difficult to establish a separate account for the damages. Following testimonies, the jury recommended the creation of a new law and the inclusion of an article in the constitution addressing climate change. The jury concluded that developed nations, being primarily responsible for the impacts of climate change, should bear the costs of mitigation. Additionally, it noted that the human rights of coastal area residents had been violated by the effects of climate change. The jury panel was made up of politicians Saber Hossain Chowdhury, Tarana Halim, Hasanul Huq Inu, and economist Quazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmed. | 4 |
After three weeks of virtual mid-year climate talks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Patricia Espinosa urged nations to set aside their differences and collaborate before the upcoming COP26 negotiations in Glasgow. Despite the challenges of remote work, governments have made progress in areas such as emissions-cutting goals and transparency in reporting climate action. However, disagreements remain regarding global carbon market rules, requiring higher-level political guidance. Espinosa emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts to make significant progress before COP26, as there is a lot at stake according to the top UN official. "I am encouraging all of us to meet the challenge of our time, to complete the task at hand, to bridge our differences, and to keep our promises." The June meetings were the initial official UN climate discussions since the conclusion of 2019, as a result of delays from the pandemic. The COP26 summit has been given the responsibility of finalizing regulations for the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change in order for the agreement to be fully enforced, according to UN officials. "Success at COP26 is essential," Espinosa stated to reporters on Thursday. "It is a crucial test of our efforts against the climate crisis - it is crucial for a sustainable recovery and it demonstrates the importance of global cooperation during this crucial time." Many countries have not yet submitted updated climate action plans as required by the Paris agreement, a delay caused by the pandemic. The emissions reductions pledged by governments are still far from what is necessary to achieve the Paris goals of limiting global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius, according to the United Nations. The failure of wealthy nations to fulfill their promises of climate finance to assist poorer countries in transitioning to renewable energy and adapting to climate change impacts is also causing concern. The pandemic has further complicated matters, with developing nations struggling to obtain vaccines, potentially affecting their ability to attend the COP26 summit in person. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, as the conference host, announced this month that his government is working with the United Nations to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to accredited delegations who may not have access otherwise. Diann Black-Layne of Antigua and Barbuda, representing the Alliance of Small Island States, expressed concerns about the uncertainty of the road to COP26 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. She also emphasized the need for substantial progress on climate finance, calling for a new financial goal at COP26 for nations vulnerable to climate change. Sonam P Wangdi of Bhutan, chair of the group of least developed countries at the UN talks, echoed the importance of delivering on climate finance for the success of the conference. Rich nations have been criticized for failing to meet their promise to raise $100 billion annually from 2020 to assist poorer countries in addressing climate change. Criticism was directed towards G7 leaders for not providing a clear plan on how they would fulfill their pledge at a recent summit, despite Germany and Canada committing additional funds. The virtual nature of this month's UN climate talks led to a lack of formal decisions and technical difficulties for some delegates. To expedite progress, Alok Sharma, the UK official overseeing COP26, intends to convene ministers from over 40 countries in London in late July. Britain's lead climate negotiator, Archie Young, acknowledged the need for more clarity on issues such as vaccinations and logistics for COP26. Sharma announced plans to collaborate with partners on offering vaccines to all accredited COP26 attendees, including government officials, green group representatives, and members of the media, with further details to be provided soon. | 4 |
At the beginning of the pandemic, the CDC operated at its usual speed. However, due to the rapid spread of a new virus, the country suffered as testing and monitoring fell behind while the agency struggled with outdated methods and infrastructure. Recommendations for masks were delayed because federal scientists took too long to realize the virus was airborne. Now, the highly contagious omicron variant is forcing the CDC to make decisions quickly, leading to recommendations based on limited evidence and concerns about their impact on the economy and education. Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the director of the agency, has occasionally bypassed much of the typical scientific review process, most recently by reducing the isolation period for infected Americans. Following the Trump administration's history of interference, President Joe Biden took office pledging to restore the CDC's reputation for independence and thorough science. Walensky now faces the challenge of effectively communicating to the public that the science is not yet complete, but the current advice is the best available. This shift has been difficult for a bureaucracy primarily made up of medical professionals. In recent interviews, some CDC officials have expressed privately that the decisions have been disheartening, and they are concerned about Walensky relying heavily on a small group of advisors and the perceived political influence from the White House on her decisions. Others from outside the agency praised Walensky for bypassing a slow process and taking a practical approach to handling a national emergency, even when data was uncertain and agency researchers were unsure. Dr. Richard Besser, who was the interim chief of the agency during the H1N1 influenza outbreak in 2009, mentioned that there are policy considerations in a pandemic that go beyond the CDC's jurisdiction. However, he emphasized the need for more clarity when policy and economics influence agency recommendations. According to data from The New York Times, over 800,000 Americans are being infected daily as of Sunday, causing many schools and businesses to struggle to stay open and hospitals in nearly two dozen states to reach full capacity. At the end of December, Walensky announced that Americans who were infected would only need to isolate for five days instead of 10 if they were no longer showing symptoms, and a negative test result would not be necessary to end the isolation period. Critics raised concerns about the potential spread of the virus as contagious individuals were allowed to return to work and school. Despite limited research supporting the shortened isolation period for omicron infections, the recommendation was seen as beneficial for hospitals, businesses, and schools during the surge. Dr. Thomas Frieden, who previously led the agency under President Barack Obama, stated that the recommendations for isolation were essentially correct. The issue is that they were not given a clear explanation. Walensky and the CDC have not commented on recent tensions in decision-making at the agency. However, Walensky has often mentioned rapidly changing science as a reason for recommendations that have been confusing or unpopular. When speaking before the Senate, Walensky stated that the CDC's new guidelines for shortened isolation periods were based on quick actions grounded in science to address the potential problem of staffing shortages. This has been a common theme for Walensky. In March, the CDC stated that students could safely sit 3 feet apart in classrooms instead of 6 feet, even though there was little research to support this recommendation. However, this change did make it easier for school administrators to consider reopening schools. In May, Walensky referenced scientific data when she advised vaccinated individuals to remove their masks and socialize freely, despite criticism from experts who believed this decision overlooked the risk of breakthrough infections, particularly those caused by the delta variant. In August, Walensky, along with Biden, endorsed booster shots for all Americans, preempting the review of the necessity for these shots by scientists at the FDA and her own agency. The recent guidance on isolation caused internal turmoil within the agency due to the process by which it was established and announced. Following this, Walensky held an emergency meeting with the COVID response leaders at the agency on the Sunday night after Christmas. She informed them that the agency would reduce the recommended isolation period and eliminate the need for a negative test result before ending isolation. This information was shared during a video call by an anonymous official. The new guidance would be released the following day by Walensky, and no one was supposed to discuss it until then. Scientists were surprised by this news and quickly worked to gather data to support the changes and update the information on the agency's website related to quarantine and isolation. Normally, federal researchers carefully review data, draft a recommendation, and refine it based on feedback before publication. However, in this case, there was limited evidence supporting the shortened isolation period, particularly for the delta variant, resulting in the accompanying "science brief" being downgraded to a "rationale" document. Some researchers were upset about not being involved in the decision-making process and were angered by the agency's claim that the change was based on science. While some thought the new five-day cutoff was arbitrary, they were aware of data suggesting rapid tests might miss omicron infections and mostly supported Walensky's decision not to require a negative test before ending isolation. However, when Walensky announced the new recommendations on December 26, staff were unprepared. CDC scientists then struggled to update guidance documents on the website over the next week. Approximately 2,000 health officials and researchers joined a weekly call with CDC officials, where on December 27, they questioned the agency about isolation guidance for the general public just hours before the CDC released its statement. CDC staff members were instructed not to discuss the new recommendations, leading to silence among them. Scott Becker, the CEO of the Association of Public Health Laboratories, expressed a desire for more input and advance notice. Supporters of Walensky, the CDC director, believed the agency's change in direction was necessary and commended her decisions. The CDC is a large organization with researchers who are used to working methodically, but the urgent nature of the pandemic required quicker action. Frieden noted that there are individuals at the CDC who do not fully understand the situation. He stated that during his time in office, he often encountered CDC staff who were unaware of the potential consequences of their recommendations and statements. Several experts believe that Walensky has been unfairly blamed for the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic. Taking on the role of leading the CDC is difficult under normal circumstances, but Walensky assumed the position during a pandemic, in a politically charged environment, and at a time when the agency's credibility and staff morale were low. Additionally, agency researchers are still working remotely, which is seen as a significant obstacle to overcome. "I am worried about the CDC," Besser stated. Besser expressed his concerns about the public's trust in public health and defended Dr. Walensky from unfair blame. Walensky has been explaining her decisions at White House briefings, but in response to criticism, she and other CDC scientists held their own briefing to address questions about isolation guidance, rising hospitalizations among children, and plans for a fourth vaccine shot. This move was seen as a positive step in rebuilding trust in the CDC and providing clarity on its decisions, according to some experts. Besser emphasized the importance of separating public health considerations from political considerations. "She will be able to support CDC scientists and experts by attending briefings from the CDC. The current conflict at the CDC existed before the pandemic and before Walensky's leadership. Some health officials have noted tension between the CDC and the National Institutes of Health, particularly with Dr. Anthony Fauci. In a recent incident, Fauci and Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy made assurances on television about the CDC revisiting recommendations for isolation, even though the agency had no plans to do so, which upset senior CDC scientists. Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, suggested that Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra should help resolve the conflict. In a rare interview, Becerra defended Walensky, stating that she has a medical license and a degree in public health." "She is not qualified in marketing as she does not possess a degree." © 2022 The New York Times Company. | 4 |
In Copenhagen on December 18th, a UN summit is discussing the possibility of limiting global warming to a maximum of 2 degrees Celsius. This goal is supported by a proposed new fund of $100 billion annually to assist developing nations. A draft text, put together just hours before world leaders gathered, emphasizes the need for significant reductions in global emissions. The draft also calls for commitments from wealthy nations to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. While still in draft form, the text stresses the importance of immediate and enhanced national action, as well as strengthened international cooperation, in response to the scientific consensus that global temperatures should not rise beyond 2 degrees. Many of the world's largest economies have already committed to limiting the rise in global temperatures to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, which is considered a critical point to prevent severe impacts such as increased flooding, heatwaves, droughts, and rising sea levels. The parties involved have pledged to work together to mobilize $100 billion by 2020 to help address the climate change needs of developing countries, with funding coming from a variety of sources. This commitment mirrors similar statements made by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at the Copenhagen meeting. Additionally, there is a goal to provide $10 billion per year in immediate assistance to developing nations from 2010-2012, with funding increasing towards the $100 billion target by 2020. The text mentioned that developing countries would be willing to accept some monitoring of their pledged emissions reductions, including providing updates to the UN Climate Change Secretariat every two years. The United States is pushing for international verification to be included in any agreement. Negotiations for one or more new climate treaties would need to be completed by the end of 2010, according to the draft. The text clarified that the agreement would not be legally binding. It also stated that countries would continue discussions in order to adopt one or more legal instruments as soon as possible, but no later than COP 16, the next UN meeting scheduled for November 2010 in Mexico. Numerous developing countries are seeking two agreements: an extension of the Kyoto Protocol, which currently requires wealthy nations to reduce emissions until 2012, and a new pact outlining responsibilities for poorer nations. Developed countries, on the other hand, prefer a single treaty. The proposed text, known as the "Copenhagen X," is controversially named due to differing opinions. Some critics, including an environmental activist, believe it is insufficient and have dubbed it the "Copenhagen catastrophe." | 4 |
An agreement in Copenhagen next month on a new pact to combat climate change is expected to attract long-term investors towards companies better equipped to handle an anticipated increase in the cost of carbon emissions. A solid political agreement with emission reduction targets at the upcoming summit could prompt investors like pension funds and sovereign wealth funds to adjust their portfolios to account for the long-term risks associated with climate change. This is likely to benefit firms that are energy self-sufficient or involved in alternative energy sources like wind or solar power, while putting pressure on industries with high emissions such as utilities, aluminum, and car manufacturers. A more specific agreement, such as a legally binding target for emission reductions, could lead funds to start changing their asset allocation now to safeguard their portfolios from the impact on companies affected by rising emission costs. In essence, it would be a global treaty aimed at regulating pollutants. Bruce Jenkyn-Jones, managing director of listed equities at Impax Asset Management, stated that by intervening in the economy to control and internalise the cost of carbon, there will be an impact on products and services as people will have to pay for carbon across the economy. This will particularly affect big energy producers, utilities, and industrials. Impax manages 50 million pounds in global equities for the UK Environmental Agency's Active Pension Fund. The strength of a Copenhagen deal is still uncertain. During a preliminary UN meeting in Barcelona recently, developed countries downplayed the likelihood of reaching a consensus on a legally binding document, suggesting that it could take an extra 6-12 months. However, developing countries are wary of wealthy nations reneging on their commitments to take the lead in combatting climate change. They are adamant about securing a legally binding agreement in December, despite the skepticism of politicians about the outcome. This situation presents a real opportunity for progress. Simon Webber, a fund manager at Schroders, stated that decisions made in Copenhagen will have a significant impact on the growth rates of companies in which you are investing. He believes that industries immediately affected by a concrete deal would include power generation, utilities, and transport. Webber pointed out that some utilities, like Germany's RWE, could potentially face higher carbon costs that could amount to nearly a third of operating profits in the coming years. Additionally, he highlighted Warren Buffett's $26 billion deal in November to acquire railway firm Burlington Northern Santa Fe as evidence of the long-term viability of rails. Webber predicts that with an aggressive deal, the growth rates of nuclear power and solar industries will soar, leading to a major shift from combustion engine cars to electric vehicles in the future. Malcolm Gray, a portfolio manager at Investec Asset Management, stated that meeting tough initial targets is necessary and industries that are energy self-sufficient like sugar will be able to handle emission reductions better and attract investments. On the other hand, utilities in the traditional thermal sector and non-diversified aluminum producers will be at risk. Due to high carbon prices, the cost of goods will increase, impacting consumers with lower disposable income and some retail businesses with low margins. Gray also emphasized that there is more embedded inflation in the world than people are aware of. He stated that there may be a more aggressive inflation cycle globally compared to the current deflating world. The outcomes of the Copenhagen talks could help investors reduce portfolio risks by predicting the increase in the cost of carbon emissions and investing in industries that benefit from alternative energy. Long-term investors like sovereign funds are becoming more involved in environmental investing, while private sector involvement has been slower. Norway's oil fund, a major owner of European stocks, is investing over $3 billion in firms involved in environmental technologies and encouraging companies to address climate change more aggressively. "We benefit most from encouraging good corporate behavior. This aligns well with our long-term investment goals," stated Martin Skancke, director general of Norway's Ministry of Finance Asset Management Department, in a recent interview with Reuters. Rabobank believes the Copenhagen agreement will provide clarity for the Dutch bank, which already considers the cost of carbon emissions as a risk factor when granting credit. "We will focus on managing risks and anticipate business opportunities in due course," explained Ruud Nijs, head of corporate social responsibility at Rabobank. "If there was a tax on the costs of climate change, it would prompt us to reassess our credit portfolio." If a customer is now required to bear the cost of climate change, the risk factor for that customer will greatly shift. The bank has invested over 4 billion euros in renewables, with all credit investments in clean technology over the past 18 months. It is the only debt provider for the Belfuture solar project, valued at hundreds of millions of euros. Additionally, the bank has provided project financing totaling 620 million euros for the Belwind offshore wind farm project. The Copenhagen agreement offers a more favorable environment for conducting business. Nijs stated that significant cleantech deals and investments in solar, wind, and biomass technologies will be automatically generated as a result of the positive outcome. Additionally, the pipeline will also see an increase. | 4 |
Heckling has always been a challenge for Trudeau, but this time the criticism is more intense. After six years in office, the prime minister, who once symbolized change and positivity, is now seen as part of the political establishment with a record of mistakes for opponents to point out. Despite predictions that the Liberal Party will maintain control of Parliament, this tough election campaign has not been beneficial for Trudeau. Ben Chin, the prime minister's senior adviser, acknowledged that it would have been difficult for any politician to maintain Trudeau's initial popularity after being in power for several years. During his time in office, Trudeau has had to make difficult decisions that have not been universally supported. Critics, including opposition party leaders, have accused him of prioritizing his personal and political interests over the well-being of the nation. These criticisms have been fueled by controversies surrounding a charity linked to his family and a breach of ethics laws related to pressuring a minister to help a Quebec company. Trudeau's opponents have also highlighted unfulfilled promises and have criticized his handling of anti-vax protesters, some of whom have ties to far-right groups. Safety concerns have forced the shutdown of rallies, and Trudeau himself has faced physical attacks, such as being pelted with gravel. An official from the People's Party was later charged with assault involving a weapon in that incident. Since 2015, Trudeau has achieved many things, such as implementing carbon pricing and other climate initiatives, legalizing cannabis, increasing funding for Indigenous issues, and banning 1,500 models of military-style rifles. A new initiative will offer child care for 10 Canadian dollars per day per child. While his popularity has waned, Trudeau still has a strong presence. When he visited the outdoor terrace of a cafe in Port Coquitlam, a suburb of Vancouver, for elbow bumps, quick chats, and selfies with voters, a crowd quickly gathered. Joy Silver, a 76-year-old retired schoolteacher from nearby Coquitlam, expressed her love for Trudeau. However, as Election Day approaches, many Canadians are questioning why Trudeau is holding a vote now, two years early, amidst rising COVID-19 infections from the delta variant. Some provinces are imposing new pandemic restrictions or delaying the lifting of existing ones. Criticism was also directed at Trudeau for calling the vote the same weekend that Afghanistan fell to the Taliban, while Canadian troops were working to evacuate Canadians and Afghan allies. Gerald Butts, a longtime friend and former top political adviser to Trudeau, noted that the campaign has struggled to address this issue. Trudeau has acknowledged that the difficulty in getting the message across is one of the reasons why they are struggling. He mentioned the need to replace his plurality in the House of Commons with a majority to effectively handle the remaining pandemic issues and the subsequent recovery. The Liberal Party's strategy was to capitalize on Canadians' positive views of Trudeau's handling of pandemic-related matters such as income support and vaccine procurement. Trudeau emphasized the party's experience, team, and plan to continue delivering results for Canadians at a rally in Surrey. Despite being in a statistical tie with the Conservative Party throughout much of the 36-day campaign, Trudeau urged voters to choose the Liberal Party if they want to end the pandemic. Political scientist Kimberly Speers suggested that Trudeau's personality and celebrity status could be working against him. She stated that the NDP and the Conservatives have been emphasizing that Trudeau's actions are a power grab focused solely on him, which has resonated with voters. Some scandals that occurred during Trudeau's time in office have also benefited the opposition, such as the resignation of his veterans affairs minister in 2019 over allegations of improper pressure to benefit a Canadian corporation. Despite Trudeau's promotion of diversity, it was revealed during the 2019 election that he had worn blackface or brownface multiple times in the past. Additionally, a charity linked to his family received a no-bid contract to oversee a COVID-19 financial aid program for students last year. The group retreated, the program was called off, and Trudeau was exonerated by the federal ethics and conflict of interest commissioner. Critics have also pointed out areas where they believe he has not delivered on promises, such as implementing a nationwide prescription drug plan, reforming Canada's electoral system, reducing debt relative to the economy, and addressing issues of sexual harassment in the military and solitary confinement in federal prisons. A study by the Centre for Public Policy Analysis at Laval University in Quebec City revealed that Trudeau has completely fulfilled 45% of his promises and partially fulfilled 27%. Singh has been emphasizing Trudeau's commitment to providing clean drinking water to all Indigenous communities, as there were 105 boil-water advisories in place when Trudeau came into office, with more added later on. The government has provided clean water to 109 communities, although there are still 52 boil-water orders in place. During the official English-language debate, Singh suggested that while he believes Mr. Trudeau cares, he has often engaged in actions for display without following through with real action. O'Toole, on the other hand, has characterized the election as a pursuit of personal gain, describing Trudeau as privileged, entitled, and self-serving at a recent event in rural Ottawa. "He prioritized his own interests when he decided to call for this costly and unnecessary election during a pandemic." Security measures have been increased at Trudeau's campaign events due to disruptions by protesters unhappy about COVID-19 vaccination requirements and vaccine passport regulations. At a rally in Surrey, Trudeau spoke energetically to a mostly South Asian crowd, which had been invited rather than publicly announced to control the size of the gathering. No signs advertised the event, and two police snipers observed from the roof of the venue. Trudeau was indirectly asked if US politics had influenced the unruly protests following the cancellation of a rally in Ontario. He responded by suggesting that everyone should consider whether they want to embrace anger, division, and intolerance. Trudeau also mentioned that he has never witnessed such intense anger during a campaign or in Canada before. While it is difficult to accurately predict how many seats each party will hold in the next House of Commons based on wider poll results, current polls indicate that Trudeau may have alienated many Canadians by calling an early election and faced abuse while campaigning, without gaining any political advantage. The Liberals are expected to retain power but may not secure the majority they were aiming for. If this turns out to be true, Butts noted that the situation would be similar to where they started, which he finds ironic. | 4 |
Speakers at a seminar have pointed out that climate change, which disproportionately affects the least developed countries such as Bangladesh, is largely a result of global corruption. They emphasized that industrialized nations bear significant responsibility for the rapid changes in climate that harm these countries the most. | 4 |
The meeting held in downtown Omaha, Nebraska marked Berkshire's first gathering of shareholders since 2019, prior to the impact of COVID-19 on America's largest corporate event. Shareholders had the opportunity to ask Warren Buffett, Charlie Munger, Greg Abel, and Ajit Jain questions for five hours. Buffett announced that Berkshire increased its investments in Chevron Corp and Activision Blizzard Inc significantly to over $31 billion. Despite facing challenges such as supply chain disruptions, the Ukraine invasion, and inflation, Berkshire reported a first-quarter operating profit of $7.04 billion. Buffett expressed his satisfaction with addressing shareholders in person, as the previous two meetings were conducted without them. Attendees at the event included JPMorgan Chase & Co Chief Executive Jamie Dimon and actor Bill Murray. In his annual shareholder letter in February, Warren Buffett expressed frustration over the lack of investment opportunities. However, in March, Berkshire Hathaway purchased 14.6% of Occidental Petroleum Corp and agreed to acquire insurer Alleghany Corp for $11.6 billion. Buffett explained that he decided to invest in Occidental after reading an analyst report, and in Alleghany after receiving a letter from its CEO, who had previously worked for Berkshire's General Re business. Buffett attributed these investments to seizing opportunities when markets behave unpredictably. "It's not our intelligence but our sanity that I believe sets us apart. Berkshire invested $51 billion in stocks in the quarter, reducing its cash reserves by over $40 billion to $106 billion. However, the company has various sources of generating cash, such as its insurance business, and Buffett reassured that they will always have a substantial amount of cash available." "It's similar to oxygen, always present but if it suddenly disappears, it's game over." During a discussion on the potential of the Ukraine conflict leading to nuclear war, Buffett and Jain struggled to provide definitive answers. Jain, who has been commended by Buffett for many years, admitted to a limitation in estimating Berkshire's insurance risk. Buffett mentioned the extremely low likelihood of a nuclear attack, recalling the near miss during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. He emphasized that the world is taking a chance every day. Berkshire Hathaway does not have a solution. Buffett criticized stock markets for resembling a casino or gambling partner, especially in recent years due to encouragement from Wall Street. Munger also disapproved of bitcoin and advised against putting retirement funds in it, as well as criticizing trading firm Robinhood Markets Inc. At the meeting, he and Buffett enjoyed their favorite candies from See's, a company owned by Berkshire, and drank soda from Coca-Cola, a major investment of Berkshire. Abel defended Berkshire's BNSF railroad, stating that there is still work to be done to improve operations and customer service in order to compete with Union Pacific Corp. Buffett reassured shareholders that Berkshire is built to last beyond his and Munger's leadership, emphasizing the company's enduring business culture. Shareholders also voted against proposals for more disclosure on diversity and climate risks, as well as the appointment of an independent chairman to succeed Buffett. Mario Gabelli, a prominent Berkshire investor, opposed ending Buffett's chairmanship, who has been running Berkshire since 1965. He mentioned that it is not wrong for companies to consider having separate individuals as chair and CEO. However, he believes that this is not necessary for Berkshire Hathaway because the current leader has been very successful for half a century. Despite projections of lower attendance compared to the previous year, thousands of people gathered outside the downtown arena before it opened at 7 am, with about 10% to 15% of seats remaining empty. At other events sponsored by Berkshire this weekend, almost everyone did not wear masks, but all had to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. The meeting was broadcast on CNBC.com. Tom Spain, the founder of Henry Spain Investment Services in Market Harborough, England, arrived at 3:15 a.m. for his third meeting and bought a chair from Walmart to sit down. He mentioned that everyone has been using the chair and that he might bring a large container of coffee to share next year. Lauritz Fenselau, a 23-year-old entrepreneur from Frankfurt, Germany, arrived for his first meeting at 4 a.m. describing it as a pilgrimage. Andres Avila, who had traveled from Boston to Omaha, also arrived sleep-deprived at 4:45 a.m., carrying an umbrella to protect against the rain and expressing his excitement to meet his idols. | 4 |
In general, the promises made by governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are insufficient to prevent a temperature increase of 2 degrees Celsius, which is considered a critical point for extreme weather events and rising sea levels. A report from organizations like Christian Aid, Oxfam, the International Trade Union Confederation and WWF International concludes that major developed countries are not doing enough in relation to their fair share. This report comes as almost 200 nations gather in Bonn, Germany for talks ahead of the upcoming UN summit in Paris in December, where a deal on climate change beyond 2020 is expected to be reached. While around 150 nations have submitted plans to combat climate change, there is currently no established method for comparing the level of ambition of each nation. The report from Monday suggested that wealthy individuals could transition from using fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources, while also assisting others and taking on more responsibility due to their historical use of coal, oil, and natural gas since the Industrial Revolution. The report estimated that the United States and the European Union had committed to around 20% of their "fair share," while Japan had committed to approximately 10%. In contrast, emerging economies were found to either meet or surpass their fair share commitments. China was highlighted for exceeding its fair share by considering emissions since 1950, while Brazil was contributing significantly as well. Brandon Wu from ActionAid stated that wealthy countries were falling short in terms of both emission reductions and financial contributions during negotiations. Tasneem Essop from WWF International suggested that Paris should establish systems that allow actions to become increasingly stronger through regular evaluations based on science and fairness. Both major emitters, Beijing and Washington, have stated that their plans are ambitious. China aims to reach peak greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 2030, while the United States plans to reduce emissions by 26-28 percent by 2025 compared to 2005 levels. According to the report released on Monday, if current trends continue, temperatures are projected to increase by 3 degrees C (5.4F) or more above pre-industrial levels by 2100, surpassing the agreed maximum of 2C. | 4 |
A top carbon expert, James Cameron, emphasized that despite the financial crisis, the world still has the resources and capability to address climate change. He warned against using the financial crisis as an excuse to delay taking action on global warming. Cameron highlighted the recent mobilization of trillions of dollars as evidence of global cooperation in facing crises. He expressed concern that governments may prioritize short-term crises over long-term issues like climate change, but stressed that collaboration across borders can quickly mobilize capital to support market systems. He suggested that if governments were able to work together with the same level of cooperation and urgency in addressing climate change as they did in responding to the financial crisis, both issues could be effectively dealt with simultaneously. Despite concerns about the financial crisis depleting public funds and countries being hesitant to make commitments to address climate change due to potential economic costs and job losses, Cameron, a prominent investor in clean-energy projects, argued against focusing solely on short-term gains. He emphasized the importance of investing in long-term solutions to tackle a crisis that will have significant economic impacts in the future. Despite recent stock market declines, he believed that there is still capital available to invest in addressing the issue of climate change. Climate Change Capital manages over $1.6 billion in funds and specializes in companies and institutions impacted by policy and capital market reactions to climate change, as stated on the firm's website. | 4 |
The sixth yearly report on the Low Carbon Economy Index by PwC examined the advancement of both developed and emerging economies in reducing their carbon intensity, or emissions per unit of gross domestic product. According to Jonathan Grant of PwC, there is a growing disparity between what is being accomplished and what needs to be done each year. He noted that governments are becoming more disconnected from reality in addressing the goal of limiting global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, as current commitments are only on track for a 3-degree increase. This falls far short of what governments are discussing. Nearly 200 countries agreed during United Nations climate talks to restrict the increase in global temperatures to under 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels to prevent heat waves, floods, storms, and rising sea levels due to climate change. The current temperature rise is approximately 0.85 degrees Celsius. A reduction in carbon intensity of 6.2 percent annually is necessary to reach this target, a significant increase compared to the 1.2 percent rate from 2012 to 2013. Achieving this reduction would require changes on a much larger scale than recent shifts in energy production in some countries. France moved towards nuclear power in the 1980s and saw a 4 percent reduction in emissions, while Britain's focus on gas in the 1990s resulted in a 3 percent cut. The United States experienced a 3.5 percent reduction in emissions due to the shale gas boom in 2012. PwC noted a positive development where emerging economies like China, India, and Mexico reduced their carbon intensity faster than industrialized nations such as the US, Japan, and the EU for the first time in six years. Australia led in decarbonisation for the second consecutive year, decreasing its carbon intensity by 7.2 percent in 2013. Despite having high emissions per person, Australia's efforts to reduce emissions have slowed down since the repeal of a tax on emissions in July. Britain, Italy, and China all successfully reduced their carbon emissions at a rate of 4-5 percent. In contrast, France, the United States, India, Germany, and Brazil saw an increase in their carbon intensity. | 4 |
World leaders are addressing the UN climate conference in Copenhagen as it approaches its conclusion. The Danish organizers are trying to lower expectations of a full agreement, but some leaders remain positive. French President Nicolas Sarkozy stated that people want to maintain the Kyoto protocol, so let's do so. Let's come to a consensus on a political framework. We must act quickly as time is running out. A failure in Copenhagen would have dire consequences for all of us. We need to accelerate our efforts in this conference to avoid a catastrophe. We have less than 24 hours left. If we continue in this manner, it will result in failure. Our purpose here is not to hold a conference on global warming, but to make important decisions. UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown emphasizes that during the few days in Copenhagen, our actions will have long-lasting consequences, and we must not let narrow self-interest hinder efforts to ensure human survival. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton expresses concern about the lack of transparency from China, the second biggest emitter, stating that it is difficult to imagine progress without it. We need to be open and transparent in the forum we choose, and if there is no commitment to transparency, it is a dealbreaker for us. Israeli President Shimon Peres urges neighboring countries, even those without diplomatic relations, to work together to save the region. Political differences should not prevent environmental cooperation, as carbon molecules do not have passports. Rivers do not need visas but carry pollution. People of different religions hope for the Jordan River to remain fresh and pure. I am following the Bible's call for Adam to care for the Garden of Eden. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has strong opinions on environmental destruction and solutions to control it. I hope that those who have contributed the most to environmental destruction will agree to international commitments and help us establish a fair framework by reducing that destruction and supporting programs to mitigate its consequences. All nations should have access to new technologies to diversify their energy sources and utilize clean and renewable energies like wind, solar, tidal, geothermal, and nuclear power. Chinese Climate Change Ambassador Yu Qingtai stresses the importance of the Copenhagen conference and emphasizes that China is not interested in participating in efforts to blame other countries for any potential failure. He believes that such attempts are simply excuses for their own obstructive and unhelpful behavior throughout the process. INDIAN ENVIRONMENT MINISTER JAIRAM RAMESH believes that the main obstacle to progress is some parties' desire to unilaterally abandon agreements, leading to a lack of trust and blame being placed. MICRONESIA PRESIDENT EMANUEL MORI appeals for help in saving his people and other small island nations, urging collaboration to protect the planet for future generations. JAPANESE ENVIRONMENT MINISTER SAKIHITO OZAWA questions whether it will be acceptable to developing nations if the US, China, and others do not join in an agreement. The main issue currently lies within these nations. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has observed slogans in the streets, one of which said "don't change the climate, change the system." He believes this message is relevant and suggests focusing on changing the system rather than the climate. As a result, we will start to protect the planet. Capitalism is a harmful system that is leading to the destruction of life. Another memorable quote is, "if the climate were a bank, it would have been saved by now", and I believe that to be true. If the climate were a large capitalist bank, it would have already been saved by the wealthy governments. This statement was made by Marcus Stephen, the President of Nuaru (South Pacific). Nuaru is a small island nation, only 21 sq km (8 sq miles) in size. How much of our island should we sacrifice? We are isolated by the Pacific Ocean with rising sea levels and no other options. We must not play the blame game but instead take responsibility for the world and our children. George Papandreou, Greek Prime Minister. We are present and accountable for the future of the world. Our voices at this moment must turn this dream into a tangible reality. Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd expresses concern about prioritizing appearance over substance and inaction over action. He emphasizes the importance of collective action for sustainable development as the planet's ability to support it is at risk. I am concerned that this conference may result in failing all the children in the world. Each of us will be held accountable for our actions or inaction. South African President Jacob Zuma believes this is a critical issue that could determine the fate of the world's population. We must come together and make important decisions as this issue poses a threat to humanity's survival. The most important thing is to prioritize helping others who are struggling, rather than focusing on personal gain. South Korean President Lee Myung-bak emphasizes the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions for the future of our planet and our children. In order to truly make a difference, we must work together and take action collectively. Rather than waiting for others to act first, we should take the initiative ourselves. UGANDAN ENVIRONMENT MINISTER MARIA MUTAGAMBA expressed concern that the normal procedure is not being followed and that there is a tendency to overlook certain important aspects. She remains hopeful that an agreement will be reached. NORWEGIAN PRIME MINISTER JENS STOLTENBERG emphasized the critical stage of the conference and stressed the need for all parties to take responsibility in reaching an agreement the following day. Stoltenberg highlighted the importance of ambitious emissions targets and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, with wealthier countries bearing the main responsibilities. Every country must do their part, and Norway is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2020. If a strong global climate agreement is reached, we will strive to be carbon neutral by 2030. Prime Minister Edward Natapei of Vanuatu expressed concern for those affected by the recent cyclone in Fiji. This is just a glimpse of what could potentially worsen if there is no ambitious climate agreement in place. | 4 |
The head of the UN climate panel is optimistic that the climate talks in Bali will conclude on Friday with a specific schedule for implementing cuts in greenhouse gas emissions to combat dangerous global warming. The negotiations, involving 190 nations, have been stalled over emissions targets, with the United States, Japan, and Canada opposing any mention of numerical goals. Rajendra Pachauri, who recently accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of his UN panel, believes that a strong statement on emissions reductions by 2020 and a clear timetable for deciding on these numbers would signify progress. He suggested that reaching an agreement on a timetable could lead to establishing solid targets for emissions reductions by wealthy nations, possibly within six months. Pachauri emphasized the importance of clearly stating the targets for 2020. The UN panel has attributed global warming to human activity this year and warned of increased heatwaves, floods, droughts, and rising sea levels. There is a call for strong action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with specific reduction targets to be decided within the next six months. The Bali talks, taking place from Dec. 3-14, are discussing guidelines for formal negotiations on a post-Kyoto Protocol agreement. The EU is pushing for a non-binding agreement to reduce emissions by 25 to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 for industrialized nations. The United States, Japan, and Canada are against providing any figures, as they believe it would unfairly influence the outcome. Pachauri, as the chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, declined to address the U.S. opposition and expressed hope that the negotiations could resolve all differences. He stated that he hopes the disagreement can be resolved and noted that discussing ambitious targets of 25 to 40 percent is a positive sign that they acknowledge the scientific evidence on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Pachauri also emphasized the importance of acting to prevent the serious impacts of climate change. | 4 |
The 78-year-old pontiff delivered a message in Washington, stating that America's power and wealth should be used to serve humanity. He emphasized the importance of not turning our backs on those in need, urging a mindset of openness towards others. Born in Argentina to an Italian immigrant family, Francis addressed a variety of issues in his speech to Congress, touching on both liberal and conservative values and Catholic teachings. He called for an end to the death penalty worldwide, advocated for a more equitable economy to help those in poverty, and urged greater efforts against climate change caused by human activities. After his speech, he traveled to New York, where he was warmly welcomed by crowds lining Fifth Avenue as he made his way to St. Patrick's Cathedral in his "popemobile." With the sound of organ music and a choir singing, the pope was greeted by a crowd of 3,000 people in the cathedral for an evening prayer service. On Friday, Francis is scheduled to speak at the United Nations General Assembly in New York and lead an open-air Mass in Philadelphia on Sunday. His call for action on immigration was met with applause from both Democrats and Republicans in attendance at his address to a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress. The issue of illegal immigration has been a focal point in the Republican presidential race, with front-runner Donald Trump vowing to deport all 11 million undocumented immigrants, many of whom are from Latin America like the pope. Trump has also made controversial remarks accusing Mexico of sending criminals across the border. Francis addressed a problem that has caused the Republicans to lose support among Hispanic voters by stating that America should not be deterred by the influx of foreigners from south of the border seeking a better life. He emphasized the importance of seeing these individuals as people, listening to their stories, and responding to their situations with compassion, fairness, and brotherhood. The Pope spoke gently and with a strong accent, flanked by House Speaker John Boehner and Vice President Joe Biden. Boehner, known for getting emotional, openly wept during the speech. The United States has been struggling for a long time to determine what to do with illegal immigrants. Last year, Republicans in Congress prevented a bipartisan effort to reform immigration laws that would have given illegal immigrants an opportunity to become US citizens. In a Pew Research Center survey conducted in May, 51 percent of 2,002 U.S. adults believed that immigrants contribute positively to the country through their hard work and abilities, while 41 percent viewed immigrants as a burden because they compete for jobs, housing, and healthcare. It remains uncertain whether the pope's speech will change people's opinions on immigration. "It doesn't change my perspective," stated Michael Tipsword, a student at George Washington University and a Catholic. Tipsword, a staunch conservative, stated that Francis' stance on immigration is more about humanitarian needs than politics. The Pope, speaking in front of the US Capitol building, referenced Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr., urging lawmakers to prioritize unity for the common good. Presidential candidates on both sides used the Pope's words to support their own views. Additionally, Francis emphasized the importance of protecting human life at all stages, mentioning abortion and euthanasia. However, he quickly shifted his focus to denouncing the death penalty, emphasizing the sanctity of every life and the potential benefits of rehabilitating convicted criminals. Pope Francis also criticized the global arms trade, which he described as being fueled by money tainted with innocent blood, and called for an end to this practice. He expressed his disapproval of same-sex marriage, a stance that was well-received by conservatives. In an effort to emphasize his message of assisting the less fortunate, Pope Francis chose to have lunch with homeless individuals immediately after leaving the US Capitol in his modest black Fiat, stating that there is no excuse for homelessness. | 4 |
The World Bank stated that cities should take on a larger role in combating global warming, as they can act more effectively than governments struggling to reach a UN climate agreement. According to Andrew Steer, the special envoy for climate change at the World Bank, the 10 largest cities in the world produce more greenhouse gases than Japan. He suggested reforms, such as changes to carbon markets, to help cities become more environmentally friendly. A World Bank study noted that urban areas, where over half of the world's population resides and which are responsible for two-thirds of greenhouse gas emissions, could contribute to reducing emissions by adopting greener transportation, clean energy, and improved waste recycling practices. Steer emphasized that cities are both a major cause of climate change and a vital part of the solution. The report highlighted the significant economic influence of the world's 50 largest cities, stating that their combined gross domestic product was second only to that of the United States, surpassing China. Tokyo and New York were singled out as having economies larger than Canada or Turkey. The UN climate talks, aiming to reach agreement on measures to combat global warming at a conference in Cancun from Nov. 29 to Dec. 10, were described as challenging due to the diverse opinions of the 194 countries involved. In 2008, over 1,000 US mayors pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in accordance with the UN's Kyoto Protocol, which obligated nearly 40 nations to limit emissions until 2012 but was never ratified by the US. Many of the world's largest cities, including Tokyo, Shanghai, New York, and Buenos Aires, are located near bodies of water, making them vulnerable to floods and rising sea levels. The World Bank is advocating for a revamp of the UN's market mechanism that currently focuses on individual projects in developing countries, such as solar panels in Morocco or hydropower in Honduras, to instead allow for broader, city-wide investments. This reform of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) would enable mayors to access funding for a range of initiatives, from flood prevention measures to eco-friendly transportation, without needing approval for each individual project. The CDM currently allows companies to invest in environmentally friendly projects in developing countries and receive credits for reducing emissions. Steer also mentioned that the opinions of urban residents regarding the best places to live were changing. In the past, when there was high industrial air pollution, areas like the east side of London, which were downwind, were inhabited by the poor. However, in the future, it is predicted that the poor will reside in low-lying areas that are at risk of flooding from rivers or rising sea levels. | 4 |
The UN climate agency is calling for a special summit to address climate change, but is considering high-level ministerial talks if world leaders are not on board. Yvo de Boer, head of the UN Climate Change Secretariat, stated that UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has agreed to send envoys to assess government interest in a high-level meeting regarding global warming. De Boer mentioned that Ban's envoys will look into the possibility of a high-level meeting, potentially during the UN General Assembly in New York in September. De Boer clarified that the meeting does not necessarily have to involve heads of state. "It may involve a different set of people, like foreign affairs or energy ministers." Ban stated on March 1 that global warming is as big of a threat as war and encouraged the United States to take the lead in addressing climate change. However, Ban's spokesperson mentioned that there were no immediate plans to organize a summit, despite requests from UN environmental agencies. De Boer clarified, "I don't believe there has been a change in perspective. What is being considered is a high-level gathering to involve a wider range of individuals - including those in foreign affairs, energy, trade, economy, and transportation." He stated that there is a need for a more extensive effort and broader support, regardless of whether leaders come together. Discussions on a global scale to combat the effects of climate change, primarily attributed to the burning of fossil fuels, have come to a standstill. Recent UN scientific reports have indicated that human activities are highly likely to be the cause of global warming, leading to potential consequences such as increased hunger, droughts, floods, heatwaves, glacier melting, and rising sea levels. De Boer emphasizes the urgency of accelerating negotiations to expand the UN Kyoto Protocol, which currently mandates emissions reductions for 35 industrialized countries until 2012. The United States and Australia withdrew from the agreement in 2001, citing concerns about the economic burden imposed by the Kyoto Protocol. The Kyoto nations account for only around one-third of global carbon dioxide emissions, with Russia being the only one of the top four emitters - the United States, China, Russia, and India - bound by Kyoto targets. De Boer suggested that a new meeting could complement, rather than repeat, the Group of Eight summit in June, where German Chancellor Angela Merkel aims to address climate change. The G8 summit will include leaders from China, India, Brazil, Mexico, and South Africa, who, along with the G8 countries, are responsible for the majority of global carbon dioxide emissions. De Boer mentioned that the G8 summit does not include certain groups like small island states, which are in danger due to rising sea levels, the poorest nations in sub-Saharan Africa, and Australia. The next round of formal UN climate negotiations will take place in Bali, Indonesia in December, where environment ministers will meet. | 4 |
According to an intelligence source, Ugandan police have discovered an unexploded suicide vest and apprehended six individuals suspected of being involved in the planning of twin bombings that resulted in the deaths of 76 soccer fans. The attacks, carried out by Somali al Shabaab Islamists with ties to al Qaeda, targeted a crowded restaurant and a rugby club in the Ugandan capital during a World Cup final viewing. A senior U.S. official in Washington mentioned that there are indications supporting al Shabaab's claim of responsibility, which would be the group's first attack outside of Somalia. U.S. President Barack Obama described the explosions as "tragic and ironic" given that they occurred during the World Cup in South Africa. Obama spoke about two contrasting visions for Africa: one of progress and unity, and the other of destruction and death by groups like al Qaeda and Al Shabaab. The U.S. government is working with Uganda and other regional governments to gather intelligence and take necessary action against potential attacks. Despite reports of a planned attack, there was no advance warning from Washington. A source from Uganda reported on June 17 that an informant from the Kisenyi suburb of Kampala had informed intelligence about a planned attack during the World Cup by some Somalis. The official stated that more than 20 individuals, including Somalis and Ugandans, were involved in planning the attacks. "As of now, we have apprehended six individuals from that group," he mentioned. Al Shabaab has threatened further attacks unless Uganda and Burundi remove their peacekeepers from the African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia, where the militants are in conflict with the government and have control over significant parts of the nation. The police mentioned that the suicide vest discovered at a third location on Monday night was designed to be planted, not worn. A man named Yonis, who claimed to be assistant to al Shabaab spokesman Sheikh Ali Mohamud Rage, told Reuters that those who carried out the attack were blessed with rage and expected to live long lives, indicating that it was not a suicide bomb. Al Shabaab, in addition to banning alcohol, has also prohibited watching soccer matches in areas under its control. Coordinated attacks are a characteristic of al Qaeda and groups associated with Osama bin Laden's militant network. For al Shabaab, this would mark the first instance of the militants extending their quest for power beyond national borders. According to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, there is a general acknowledgment that al Shabaab is entering a new phase by broadening their reach geographically. Napolitano explained to reporters that the U.S. is continuously exploring ways to enhance preparedness, prevent, and intercept any potential terrorist attacks before they occur domestically. A U.S. official in Washington, who briefed reporters, mentioned that al Shabaab has been a focus of attention, has connections to al Qaeda in East Africa and al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula. The official stated that the Kampala attack was consistent with threats to expand their targets, but did not directly address whether the group posed a specific threat to the United States. Obama mentioned in an interview with South African Broadcasting Corp that terrorist organizations do not value African life and see it as a place to carry out ideological battles with no concern for the consequences. Despite the attack, the African Union confirmed that Uganda would still host a summit for African leaders and continue its peacekeeping mission. IGAD also stated that they would not be intimidated and would continue to support the government in Somalia, with plans to increase peacekeepers to over 8,000 by the second week of August. Last week, members of IGAD, including Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Djibouti, expressed their desire for 20,000 troops from the AU and United Nations to be deployed in Somalia. The opposition Forum for Democratic Change party in Uganda called on President Yoweri Museveni to withdraw his peacekeepers and stated that they would do the same if they won the 2011 elections. The party's spokesman, Wafula Oguttu, told Reuters that there is no peace to maintain in Somalia and that Uganda has no strategic interests there. He believes that Uganda is sacrificing its youth for no reason. Analysts suggest that a prolonged bombing campaign would harm Uganda's investment climate, but a single attack would probably not deter major companies like Tullow Oil from investing. Foreign investment in the third largest economy in East Africa has significantly increased, largely due to oil exploration near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Among the casualties, one American was reported dead, while five others were injured and evacuated to Johannesburg and Nairobi. The U.S. State Department confirmed the presence of an FBI team in Kampala. | 4 |
Activists and left-wing leaders concluded at a meeting in Bolivia that big polluting countries need to aggressively reduce greenhouse gases and consider input from smaller nations in order to combat global warming. The gathering aimed to provide a platform for countries and environmental groups that felt excluded from the Copenhagen summit, where major decisions were made behind closed doors. Activists argue that industrial powers derailed the Copenhagen summit by failing to commit to significant cuts in emissions, and are calling for a more inclusive approach at the upcoming climate change meeting in Mexico. The summit in Cochabamba proposed a 50 percent reduction in emissions by leading industrial nations, a more ambitious target compared to the Copenhagen Accord's promises of 7 to 16 percent cuts. Bolivian President Evo Morales emphasized the importance of listening to the voices of the people and making decisions that benefit everyone at the Mexico meeting in December. During the summit, Morales sparked controversy by suggesting that consuming hormone-fed chicken can lead to "sexual deviation" in men, and that European men lose hair because of their consumption of genetically modified food. The World People's Conference on Climate Change and the Rights of Mother Earth, attended by 20,000 environmentalists and representatives from 90 governments, focused on issues such as capitalism, genetically modified food, and global warming. Indigenous groups from around the world participated in the event, which took place in Tiquipaya and featured various activities such as concerts, theater, and an arts market. Countries like Bolivia, Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Sudan, and Saudi Arabia, known for their leftist stance, have been vocal critics of the Copenhagen accord, arguing that climate change disproportionately impacts southern nations despite being caused by northern countries. Canadian author Naomi Klein stated that if people recognize the importance of justice and decency, it signifies that countries in the southern hemisphere are not simply seeking aid. She believes that the Cochabamba meeting could strengthen cooperation among nations facing the impacts of climate change, leading to a more united front among developing countries. The meeting concluded with a resolution to establish an international tribunal to hold responsible parties accountable for global warming, as well as proposing a global referendum on climate change and the creation of a fund to assist nations dealing with its effects. The resolutions are not mandatory, but countries and social organizations that participated in the summit have committed to promoting them prior to the United Nations summit on climate change in Cancun, Mexico in December. Alicia Barcena, the top UN representative at the meeting, acknowledged on Tuesday that grassroots groups were excluded from the Copenhagen summit and expressed doubt about the effectiveness of the Cancun summit. She suggested that the Rio+20 Earth Summit on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro in 2012 should be the ultimate goal. | 4 |
The European Union executive has emphasized the importance of EU states fulfilling their commitments to increase aid to impoverished countries, stating that failing to reach U.N. goals would have dire consequences for developing nations and global stability. While progress has been made towards the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, there are still significant challenges such as high child mortality rates, lack of access to clean water, limited education opportunities, and widespread illiteracy among women. The Commission stressed that achieving these goals is crucial for developing countries, Europe, and global stability, and called for increased political and public support to make it happen. The EU executive urged EU states to follow through on their promises to increase development aid as a percentage of Gross National Income, highlighting the importance of this in addressing issues like migration, security, and climate change. Each of the 27 EU states was urged to create financial plans that demonstrate year by year increases to meet the goals. In 2007, the European Union, which is the world's largest aid donor, pledged over 46 billion euros in aid. However, this amount decreased by about 1.7 billion euros from the previous year, which could have funded 4,500 schools or 1,200 hospitals. Aid and development Commissioner Louis Michel described this decrease as a "serious failure." The Commission stressed the importance of more effective aid by preventing duplication of efforts, assisting developing countries in utilizing biofuels to combat poverty, and taking action to reduce brain drains, especially in the fields of health, education, and research. The Commission also noted that fundamental principles of aid effectiveness are not being followed and announced plans to propose improvements on a state-by-state basis. The text called for the allocation of 2 billion euros ($3.15 billion) by 2010 to the Aid for Trade program, which aims to assist poorer countries in taking advantage of export opportunities, particularly focusing on African, Caribbean, and Pacific nations. Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso stressed the need for action in 2008 rather than just words, emphasizing the importance of delivering on promises to maintain credibility. A recent report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development revealed a decrease in development aid from major donors, largely due to the conclusion of significant debt relief packages. In 2000, 189 U.N. members established goals to eradicate poverty, promote human and social development, and protect the environment. In 2005, leaders of the European Union set goals for 2015 to reduce extreme poverty by half, provide primary education to all children, and enhance health standards. Aid from the EU reached 0.38 percent of the Gross National Income (GNI) in the previous year, slightly below the target of 0.39 percent for 2006, which was successfully achieved. The European Commission calculated that Official Development Assistance equated to 93 euros per EU citizen, surpassing the figures of 53 euros per person in the United States and 44 euros per person in Japan. | 4 |
However, there is some discouraging news: In conversations with Oscar voters, many have expressed concern over whether there are even 10 exceptional films to consider for voting this year. While greatness is subjective, this year's pool of Oscar contenders is notably diverse, including mainstream blockbusters, foreign dramas, and a comedy with Meryl Streep as the president. If voters feel that there are not enough deserving films to fill out their 10 slots, it may be because they have not explored all the options thoroughly. I have viewed all the major Oscar contenders for this year, except for Guillermo del Toro's "Nightmare Alley," and while there is some consensus forming around the top contenders, there are still several exciting films that could make the final lineup. I have identified six movies with the strongest chances for best picture, as well as a selection of other worthy films that voters can consider. One question on many minds is whether Steven Spielberg's new musical, "West Side Story," could replicate the success of the original 1961 version and win best picture at the Oscars. After receiving standing ovations this week, the film "West Side Story" has been moved to the top position. Steven Spielberg's clever reimagining of the original material combines classic grandeur with modern concerns, making it a favorite among Oscar voters. Following last year's more intimate Academy Awards ceremony, a large-scale Steven Spielberg musical premiering exclusively in theaters is just the type of project that the film industry and the Oscars will likely support. In comparison, "Belfast" is a modest film that runs for only 97 minutes, never exceeding its boundaries and concluding at the perfect moment. However, its modesty may prevent it from nabbing the top spot at the Oscars. Kenneth Branagh's "Belfast" has been well-received in the academy, but "West Side Story" has more glamour and has earned around $5 million at the box office. The film is waiting for the return of the older art-house crowd to potentially become a sleeper hit. Jane Campion's "The Power of the Dog" has generated buzz for the performances of Benedict Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst, and could put Campion in the running for a major Oscar. However, winning the best director award may be more likely than taking home the best picture prize. The movie "King Richard," which tells the story of Richard Williams, father of Venus and Serena Williams, is considered a strong contender for best actor due to Will Smith's performance. This increases its chances of being nominated for best picture, as the last 10 best actor winners all came from movies nominated in the top Oscar category. In contrast, only six of the last 10 best actress winners were from films nominated in the top category, indicating a need for more recognition of female-led films. Despite this, "King Richard" faced criticism for its weak opening weekend box office performance. In comparison, the trailer for "Being the Ricardos," directed by Aaron Sorkin, received backlash for downplaying Nicole Kidman's portrayal of Lucille Ball as potentially disastrous. However, once the film started being shown to enthusiastic guild audiences, Kidman's unexpected transformation with her smoky voice brought her closer to a potential second Oscar win. With a strong supporting cast that includes Javier Bardem as Desi Arnaz, J.K. Simmons, and Nina Arianda, "Being the Ricardos" is expected to be a major contender in the upcoming awards season. Another film to watch out for is "Don't Look Up" by Adam McKay, known for his previous hits "The Big Short" and "Vice." This star-studded satire about a comet threatening the end of the world features Oscar favorites Streep, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Mark Rylance, and Jonah Hill. Set against the backdrop of a potential apocalypse, "Don't Look Up" provides a timely commentary on the climate crisis and current global events, making it a standout among other period-piece films. These two movies are sure to be strong contenders in the upcoming awards season. Which other movies are still competing for the final four spots? It is beneficial to have a strong best-actor candidate leading your film. Expect a strong push for the musical "Cyrano," starring Peter Dinklage, Lin-Manuel Miranda's "Tick, Tick... Boom!," with Andrew Garfield, and Joel Coen's "The Tragedy of Macbeth," featuring Denzel Washington. Also, Joaquin Phoenix's "C'mon C'mon" should not be underestimated, despite being a tender drama about child-raising. Hopefully, voters will recognize the wonderful films contending in the best-actress category and give them a chance for a best-picture nomination. The group of potential Oscar contenders includes Paul Thomas Anderson’s "Licorice Pizza," which marks the film acting debut of musician Alana Haim. Pedro Almodóvar’s "Parallel Mothers," which earned Penélope Cruz the Volpi Cup for best actress at the Venice Film Festival, is also in the mix. Renate Reinsve won best actress at Cannes for her role in the romantic dramedy "The Worst Person in the World," which has been gaining awards attention. At the Gotham Awards, Maggie Gyllenhaal's "The Lost Daughter" received several awards, including one for Olivia Colman's lead performance. Kristen Stewart is a strong contender for the Oscar for her portrayal of Princess Diana in "Spencer," directed by Pablo Larraín. With the recent influx of international members in the academy, Asghar Farhadi's "A Hero" and Paolo Sorrentino's "The Hand of God" could potentially secure nominations for best picture and best director, respectively. I am interested in "CODA," a dramedy centered on the hearing daughter of a deaf family. Despite starting 2021 with a successful Sundance sale, the film received less attention when it arrived on Apple TV+ during the summer. Although it has not been widely discovered by audiences, two wins at the recent Gotham Awards may boost its popularity. Additionally, the sci-fi epic "Dune" is expected to be a strong contender in various technical categories. The positive reception of "West Side Story" may alleviate the pressure to include "Dune" in the best-picture category solely for its blockbuster status, but I believe it still has a good chance due to its quality and the director Denis Villeneuve's efforts against a sudden shift to HBO Max. This year's best-picture montage will be much more visually appealing with the inclusion of large sandworms. | 4 |
A draft report for European Union finance ministers suggests that by 2020, poor countries will require around 100 billion euros ($142 billion) annually to assist them in reducing emissions as part of the fight against climate change. The report, obtained by Reuters, outlines plans for competitive tenders to be held by the EU to secure funding from wealthier nations, with developing countries presenting their most cost-effective projects for emissions reduction. These documents highlight the EU's developing strategy leading up to the global climate talks in Copenhagen in December. Finance ministers will discuss and refine the bloc's position at a meeting scheduled for next Tuesday. The primary concern at the Copenhagen talks will be securing the necessary funding to encourage developing nations to reduce emissions, as well as additional support to help them adapt to the impacts of climate change that they argue have been exacerbated by wealthy, industrialized nations. Between 50% and 66% of the most cost-effective options for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 or 2030 are located in developing countries, according to a document on funding requirements from the EU's Economic Policy Committee and the Economic and Financial Committee. Environmentalists view this document as evidence that Europe's economic experts acknowledge the importance of supporting developing nations in the fight against climate change. Greenpeace campaigner Joris den Blanken questions whether finance ministers will overlook the advice of their experts or endorse the recognition of the needs in developing countries. Poor countries could partly offset the costs of reducing emissions through deforestation by cleaning up power generation and industry, which would lead to reduced reliance on expensive fossil fuels. However, an additional 100 billion euros per year in investments will still be necessary by 2020, including 71 billion euros for industry and energy sector improvements, 18 billion euros for forest conservation, and 5 billion euros for agriculture emissions reductions. The numbers may seem large, but they are more manageable when compared to the significant subsidies for fossil fuels in developing countries and agricultural subsidies among OECD states, according to the report. In addition to reducing their own emissions, developing nations will also need assistance in adapting to climate change, such as developing drought-resistant crops and building levees against rising sea levels. The exact cost of adaptation in these countries is difficult to determine due to uncertainties about the specific impacts of global warming, but the report estimated it could be 23-54 billion euros per year by 2030. | 4 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina plans to gather countries most severely impacted by climate change to advocate for climate funds during the upcoming 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly and Climate Summit, as stated by an official on Saturday. Hasina will address climate change issues, engage in discussions with leaders of nations that contribute UN peacekeeping troops, and cover various other topics, according to Foreign Secretary Mohamed Mizarul Quayes. She is scheduled to depart on September 21, arrive in the US on September 22, and remain there for a week before returning on September 29. Quayes, who will accompany the prime minister's delegation to the UN assembly, revealed that Hasina will participate in a meeting of 25 heads of state and government on climate change organized by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon on September 22. At this gathering, she will aim to unite the most severely affected nations and address compensation claims for climate change, specifically advocating for compensation for least developed countries as the chair of the LDC Group. Quayes stated that the outcome depends on how other countries, affected by global warming, respond. Bangladesh is at the forefront of nations dealing with the consequences of global warming, caused by human activities, and is seeking support for adaptation. Developing nations argue that they will bear the brunt of climate change despite having the least impact, calling on wealthy nations to acknowledge their financial obligations. The UN and World Bank have both called on wealthy nations to take on their moral responsibility. US President Barack Obama and Sheikh Hasina are set to participate in a meeting with nine countries that contribute significantly to UN peacekeeping efforts globally. Bangladesh plays a significant role in peacekeeping missions, with approximately 10,000 personnel participating in various missions globally. The United Nations has approximately 115,000 troops, police, and civilians involved in 16 peacekeeping missions across regions such as Africa, the Middle East, Cyprus, Kosovo, Western Sahara, and Haiti. These missions face challenges including a lack of personnel, equipment, helicopters, and other essential resources. Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, currently in the US, will be attending a ministerial meeting before the general assembly. Moni recently met with Isabel Guerrero, the World Bank vice president for the South Asia Region, in Washington DC to discuss the bank's regional plans. Earlier, on September 17th, Dipu Moni had a meeting with US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Dipu Moni is expected to go back to Bangladesh in the beginning of October. | 4 |
Speaking at the One Planet Summit in Paris, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh announced plans to increase tree coverage by two percent in her country over the next five years. She called on developed nations to uphold their commitments to climate justice and emphasized the importance of shared responsibility in securing the world's future. The summit, held at the Elysee Palace and attended by leaders from various levels of government and finance sectors, aimed to enhance global efforts in combating climate change. Despite being a developing nation, Bangladesh currently allocates over one percent of its GDP towards addressing climate change, as it is one of the most vulnerable countries to its effects despite not being a major contributor to the issue. With our limited resources, we are addressing the consequences of climate change through mitigation and adaptation. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the Elysse Place in Paris for the One Planet Summit, where she discussed the challenges Bangladesh faces due to the influx of over a million Rohingya refugees from Myanmar. Despite providing shelter to them on forest land in Cox's Bazar, the crisis has had a significant impact on the environment in that area. In this scenario, climate adaptation has become a significant challenge. Stressing the importance of afforestation in addressing environmental degradation, she mentioned a $50.76 million project aimed at conserving the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest. In the coastal areas, efforts have been made to create green belts to protect against cyclones, tidal surges, coastal erosion, and saline water intrusion. Approximately 67,000 hectares of land have been earmarked for afforestation in this region, stated the prime minister. Bangladesh is working to enhance the resilience of its agriculture to climate change impacts. Measures are also being taken to reduce reliance on groundwater for urban water supply. Prime Minister Hasina expressed appreciation for Macron's leadership on this issue and reaffirmed her commitment to implementing the 2015 Paris climate accord. The prime minister remembered the introduction of the Global Pact for the Environment at the UN in September of this year. She expressed her strong belief that collaborative actions for resilience and adaptation would help promote peace, stability, prosperity, and address inequalities within societies. | 4 |
The G77 and China, a major influential group, left the negotiation at 3am BdST on Wednesday due to developed countries refusing to allocate funds separately for loss and damage. Some countries, including the US, Australia, and Canada, were pushing for a separate mechanism on the issue of loss and damage. Developing country negotiator Quamrul Islam Chowdhury stated that the walkout occurred because some parties were trying to simplify the issue into disaster risk reduction. Differences among parties were highlighted by Dr Ainun Nishat, who stated that the G77 and China wanted an independent work stream reporting to COP, while some developed countries wanted it under the adaptation commitment. Developed countries were not in favor of providing financial support to the loss and damage mechanism. The Bangladesh delegation emphasized the need for a clear global understanding on mitigation and adaptation, along with addressing loss and damage with commensurate financing, technology development, and capacity building for a legally binding agreement in Paris in 2015. The delegation expressed disappointment that an institutional mechanism on loss and damage could not be agreed upon during COP 19. The press conference also included statements from Secretary Shafiqur Rahman, Ainun Nushat, Dr Asaduzzaman, and Md Quamrul Islam Chowdhury. | 4 |
Cameron is eager to launch strikes against Islamic State in Syria soon, believing that Britain cannot rely on other countries for security after the Paris attacks. He is seeking approval from the House of Commons to avoid a repeat of a previous defeat in 2013, but this has caused further divisions within the Labour Party. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has criticized Cameron for rushing into war and urged Labour lawmakers to reconsider their support for military action in Syria. Cameron's cabinet has approved the motion to extend air strikes to Syria, as well as Iraq, where British warplanes have been targeting since last year. He emphasized that the debate in parliament would be thorough and last 10-1/2 hours. When asked about the likelihood of securing a majority, he responded by saying "Let's wait and see." Cameron is almost guaranteed to receive parliamentary approval after Corbyn announced that his members of parliament would be allowed to vote based on their conscience, a departure from the usual practice of leaders instructing MPs how to vote on important matters. Reports suggest that around 50 Labour MPs will support the government, despite their leader, an experienced anti-war activist, hoping to convince them otherwise. Corbyn stated that Cameron's argument did not meet the demands of his party, and urged every MP to make their own decision on whether British troops should be deployed in another Middle East conflict without a clear end goal. A lot of British people are cautious about getting involved in more expensive military operations in the Middle East, given that previous interventions in Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan did not bring stability and may have contributed to the emergence of groups like Islamic State. Despite the British finance minister estimating the cost of extending air strikes into Syria to be in the "low tens of millions of pounds," some members of parliament who were initially against the idea now believe it is necessary to protect the country from attacks like the one in Paris. Defence Secretary Michael Fallon emphasized the need for Britain to launch air strikes against Islamic State in Syria during a meeting with MPs. | 4 |
In a letter to the International Monetary Fund Executive Board that was released on Thursday, attorney Lanny Breuer from Covington & Burling raised concerns about potential errors in the investigation report conducted by WilmerHale. This law firm was hired by the World Bank's board to look into data irregularities in the "Doing Business" rankings. The report suggested that while Georgieva was CEO of the World Bank in 2017, she exerted pressure on staff to manipulate data in favor of China during a time when the bank was seeking support from Beijing. Georgieva has refuted these allegations. Breuer, a former US Justice Department official who served as special counsel to former President Bill Clinton during his impeachment trial in 1999, has made these claims as Georgieva seeks support from the IMF board. The board recently interviewed both Georgieva and WilmerHale and will discuss the matter further on Friday. France has announced its plan to support Georgieva at the upcoming board meeting, according to a source from the French Finance Ministry. Georgieva has denied the accusations of pressuring staff to manipulate data, calling them "outrageous and untrue," and stating that her statements were taken out of context by WilmerHale. She released a detailed statement to the board on Thursday. Her attorney, Breuer, emphasized that Georgieva has not been informed that she is under investigation or given the opportunity to review and respond to the report's findings, as outlined in Staff Rule 3.00 covering World Bank Office of Ethics and Business Conduct procedures. The WilmerHale report stated that their investigation initially focused on board officials in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Board Officials, which is different from the staff rule mentioned by Breuer. The firm confirmed that they followed all relevant World Bank rules and informed Dr. Georgieva that their report would be presented to the World Bank Board, with the possibility of disclosing any information she provided. According to an email sent in July from WilmerHale to Georgieva, the firm was conducting a review into irregularities in Doing Business data and staff misconduct as authorized by World Bank Staff Rule 3.00. In 2017, when Georgieva was the World Bank CEO, she was considered a member of staff, not a board official. The email to Georgieva requested her to speak with investigators because they believe she may have information that could assist with their review, emphasizing that she is not the subject of their investigation. The World Bank's General Counsel's office stated that the investigation into the Doing Business 2018 and 2020 reports was carried out in accordance with World Bank regulations. | 4 |
The presidents of France and Brazil emphasized the importance of rich countries providing increased aid to developing nations in order to effectively combat global warming and reach a climate agreement in Copenhagen. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, speaking at a climate summit in Manaus, acknowledged progress made by China and the United States in reducing greenhouse gas emissions but stressed the need for more assistance for developing countries to address climate change and achieve their goals. Lula highlighted the importance of supporting the poor nations without compromising their sovereignty, pointing to Brazil's investment fund for conservation in the Amazon rainforest as an example of this approach. Norway has so far contributed the most in donations. Climate negotiators have not made much progress in addressing how wealthy countries can assist poorer nations in combating global warming. French President Nicolas Sarkozy emphasized the importance of providing financial assistance from developed countries to developing ones at the Copenhagen summit, stating that action needs to be taken immediately. Sarkozy expressed support for Washington's target to reduce emissions by 17 percent by 2020. The European Union estimates the cost to help developing nations combat global warming at around $100 billion annually. Developing countries believe that wealthy nations should contribute between 0.5 percent and 1 percent of their GDP. Brazil has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 36.1 to 38.9 percent by 2020 and is seeking a larger role in climate negotiations. However, only one other South American leader, Guyana's Bharrat Jagdeo, attended the Manaus summit to discuss a united stance on climate issues for the upcoming Copenhagen conference. | 4 |
European Union leaders have reached an agreement on a proposal to present at the global climate talks in Copenhagen in December. Developing countries will require 100 billion euros by 2020 to address climate change, with a portion coming from the public funds of wealthy nations, including the EU. This development was hailed as a significant breakthrough by British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. East European countries stated that the summit resolved a disagreement on how to divide the EU's share of the bill in a manner that would not negatively impact their economies as they bounce back from crisis. The Polish minister for Europe, Mikolaj Dowgielewicz, described this as a success for Poland, emphasizing the desire for rapid development and not being relegated to a museum of eastern European folklore. However, leaders did not reach a specific agreement on how to divide the bill and delegated this task to a new working party. "I would have preferred for this burden-sharing mechanism to be ready now, but unfortunately, it proved to be too challenging," stated Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The two-day summit successfully obtained a complicated negotiating mandate for the Copenhagen discussions in order to find a replacement for the Kyoto Protocol, the United Nations initiative to combat climate change that will expire in 2012. The success of these discussions is likely to depend on financial resources. Developing nations are insisting on adequate funds from wealthier countries in order to commit to addressing climate change, as the latter are primarily responsible for environmental damage due to their use of oil and coal in their industries over many years. Developing countries may use these funds to adjust their agricultural practices or seek new water sources in areas suffering from drought. The European leaders have decided to delay their previous plans for providing "fast start" financing to developing nations in the three years leading up to a new climate deal. Oxfam, an anti-poverty group, criticized Europe's proposal for lacking sufficient funds and guarantees that the money would not be taken from existing aid commitments. Oxfam's Elise Ford warned that if rich countries divert aid money to pay for climate issues, it could harm efforts to fight poverty. The opposition from east European countries eased after Sweden, which led the talks, addressed the issue of "hot air" - the excess carbon permits held by eastern European states, Russia, and Ukraine. These countries have about 9 billion tonnes of spare permits from when their economies collapsed after the end of communist rule. The additional permits, referred to as AAUs, can be traded to major polluters like Japan for around 10 euros per tonne. Eastern European nations are in favor of continuing to sell AAUs in the new agreement that replaces Kyoto. However, countries like Germany argue that this practice weakens the agreement's integrity and advocate for eliminating them as they reduce the urgency to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to an EU diplomat, Sweden secured support from eastern Europe for the overall agreement by delaying significant action on AAUs. The agreement also includes commitments to reduce domestic emissions, with a promise to deepen cuts to 30 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 if other countries follow suit. | 4 |
Hainan, known as "China's Hawaii," is on track to become a top tourist destination in Asia with its tropical climate and pristine beaches. The construction of the Haikou Master hotel and serviced apartments, previously stalled due to economic struggles, is now nearing completion and reflects the island's efforts to recover from a property bubble in the early 1990s. Agent Hong Weibin reported strong sales of luxury flats in the complex. Nearly all of the 16 million square meters of construction left unfinished after the economic crash has been either completed or demolished, leading to a resurgence of investors in Hainan. The previous unrestricted development approach has been replaced with a concentrated effort to transform the tropical island into a tourist destination comparable to Thailand's beach resorts. Numerous high-end resorts are now opening up, and plans are in place to expand the visa exemption program, establish duty-free shops, enhance infrastructure, construct airports, increase air connections, and promote foreign language education. Vice governor Chen Cheng emphasized tourism as the most distinctive, promising, and competitive industry in Hainan during the unveiling of a development strategy last month. "It is quite appealing," stated Ian Zheng, who is the Managing Director of the Pacific Alliance Asia Opportunity Fund. The fund holds a $150 million stake in the company that owns Hainan's main airports and also has investments in a Beijing property firm operating in Hainan. Zheng expressed confidence in the investment, stating, "I do not anticipate any significant risks." The potential for growth in the tourism industry on the island is high, with a growing number of domestic tourists and the vast Chinese market presenting opportunities for resorts. Peter Pedersen, general manager of Banyan Tree Sanya, mentioned the estimated 450 million middle-class Chinese expected in the next decade, highlighting the potential for growth in the industry. "I believe that Sanya has great potential." In the past month, both the Ritz-Carlton and the Banyan Tree, luxury branches of major hotel companies, have opened resorts in Sanya, home to the island's top beach resort. The Mandarin Oriental is also set to open later this year. This development signifies a significant transformation for Hainan, previously recognized in China primarily for inexpensive package tours. "Sanya is emerging as a new tropical destination in Asia, and it is the only tropical island in China," Pedersen stated to Reuters. "It is increasingly sought after by both the local and international tourist markets. It is a perfect location," he stated while standing on top of one of the resort's private pool villas, which are priced at around 5,000 yuan per night. Hainan, after becoming the country's youngest and most economically liberal province in 1988, experienced rapid development. However, officials went as far as attempting to sell the city's main park to developers in their excitement. While other coastal provinces prospered, Hainan struggled. Now, Hainan appears to be on the road to recovery, but analysts and investors caution that there may be imbalances and conflicts that could disrupt the island's resurgence. In Haikou, the capital city, about 60 percent of new apartments are being purchased as second homes by individuals not from Hainan, a situation that Mayor Xu Tangxian has acknowledged. Xu mentioned in an interview that there are areas where all the homes have been sold, but remain unoccupied at night. Although the majority of tourists in Hainan are Chinese mainlanders, with 18 million visitors last year compared to just 750,000 international tourists, the government is making efforts to attract wealthy foreigners to help enhance the island's reputation and economy. The provincial tourism bureau head, Zhang Qi, stated last month that the objective is to attract 20 renowned international hotel management companies within five years and increase the number of five-star, internationally recognized resorts to 60 or more. With developers eagerly eyeing the tourism growth, reports of typical misconduct are starting to surface. In Longqiao, a rural township located approximately a 40-minute drive from Haikou, the red earth is being plowed in large swaths to create golfing fairways on the low hills. Local residents claim that government officials persuaded them to sell their land for the construction of a golf course. In early April, rumors spread that the government had sold the land to the developer for a significantly higher price than what the locals received, causing outrage among the community. This led to an angry mob overturning a police car. Subsequently, when a group gathered at a nearby schoolyard, witnesses reported that police used tear gas to disperse the crowd. Some individuals in the southern town of Sanya believe that bottlenecks and corruption issues are beginning to have negative effects. A Western investor mentioned that he was facing difficulties in starting a project due to excessive corruption. The permit approval process has been significantly delayed, causing frustration. However, despite these challenges, optimism about Hainan's potential for tourism remains strong. There is a belief that the issues seen in Sanya are just the beginning of larger problems. "The island of Hainan remains quite large. There are beaches stretching almost all the way to the capital Haikou. The island has a diameter of 350 km," stated Pedersen from Banyan Tree Sanya. "There are endless possibilities here." | 4 |
According to an influential report on global warming by former World Bank chief economist Nicholas Stern, India is likely to face severe consequences of climate change, including reduced agricultural output, more frequent natural disasters, and an increase in deaths due to higher rates of diseases. Stern warned that if greenhouse gas emissions are not controlled, global temperatures could rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius in the next 50 years. Speaking to Indian business leaders, Stern highlighted the potential impact on India's economy, particularly on the crucial June-September monsoon rains that are essential for crop production. He mentioned the possibility of changes in the monsoon patterns, such as varying starting dates, increased intensity, and prolonged periods of drought. "He stated that there is a high probability of disruption. India is expected to face similar challenges as the rest of the world, and possibly even more severe ones. Experts predict that a temperature increase of 2 to 3.5 degrees Celsius could result in a loss of agricultural revenue ranging from nine to 25 percent for India. Agriculture accounts for approximately 22 percent of India's GDP. Additionally, rising temperatures could lead to the spread of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever to higher altitude areas that are currently mosquito-free." The head of Britain's Economic Service stated that if the Himalayan glaciers continue to melt, there is a high possibility of increased deaths leading to decreased productivity. He also mentioned that this melting could cause severe floods in Bangladesh due to rising sea levels, prompting mass migration into India. Additionally, he warned that the reduced water flow from the glaciers during India's dry season would have significant repercussions. Experts predict that the melting glaciers will impact a large portion of the global population, particularly those in the Indian subcontinent, with India's Ganga river supporting over 500 million people by receiving 70 percent of its summer water flow from the Himalayan glaciers. Stern noted that India was making strides in addressing emissions challenges and investing in clean development methods. However, he emphasized that climate change disproportionately affects poorer nations, even though wealthier countries are responsible for the majority of greenhouse gas emissions. He stressed the importance of all countries participating in solutions, but also argued that rich nations should bear the majority of the financial burden. | 4 |
British NGO Oxfam emphasized the need for quick outcomes at the UN climate talks starting in Cancún, México on Monday. In a statement before the talks on Sunday, Oxfam highlighted the increase in weather-related disasters, extreme temperatures, flooding, and rising sea levels in 2010 as indications for negotiators to find a resolution. Quoting from an Oxfam report on the importance of reaching a resolution at the climate talks, the statement mentioned that around 21,000 people lost their lives due to weather-related disasters in the first nine months of 2010, which was more than double the casualties in 2009. The report's author, Tim Gore, warned that the situation is likely to worsen as climate change continues to escalate. The human toll of climate change in 2010 serves as a stark reminder of the urgency for progress in Cancun, according to the report. The statement also mentioned that Oxfam is advocating for a fair Climate Fund to ensure that the most vulnerable parties receive the necessary funds. The organization is emphasizing the important role of women in helping communities adapt to climate change and is calling for them to be a priority in fund distribution. It is urging countries to explore new fundraising methods, such as taxing unregulated international aviation and shipping emissions and implementing a tax on financial transactions at banks. Oxfam also noted that quicker action will reduce the costs of addressing climate change, with estimates showing that every dollar spent on adaptation could prevent $60 worth of destruction. Gore pointed out that Cancun will not meet all the requirements of a comprehensive global response to climate change. It has the potential to produce results that will positively impact disadvantaged individuals. A crucial accomplishment would be the establishment of a just climate fund, as this could also contribute to rebuilding confidence and getting the negotiations back on course. | 4 |
In an interview with bdnews24.com from Glasgow during the final hours of negotiations at the COP26 summit on Friday, the Bangladeshi scientist stated that the other parties do not want to give in to any of our demands and are trying to block everything. Despite this, he mentioned that they will persist in their efforts to persuade them to make commitments until the end. Huq, who is the director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development in Dhaka, has been present at all 26 COP meetings since the first one in Berlin in 1995. The emissions cuts that have been promised by the major climate polluters globally are projected to result in a concerning 2.7-degree Celsius increase in average global temperatures, which is significantly higher than the more ambitious goal of 1.5C outlined in the Paris agreement and supported by scientists. Affluent nations, which had pledged to provide $100 billion annually starting in 2020 to assist developing countries in transitioning to cleaner growth and adapting to climate risks, have now delayed meeting that target until 2023. A recent draft agreement at the Glasgow talks called for a doubling of funds for developing nations to address climate impacts, and urged all countries to enhance their emissions reduction goals by the following year. However, contentious issues such as funding, emission reduction timelines, and the inclusion of "fossil fuels" in the agreement continue to divide nations. These disagreements suggest that reaching a comprehensive agreement at the United Nations talks may prove challenging despite efforts from activists and scientists. Scientific consensus indicates that in order to prevent the most disastrous effects of global warming, the world must reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost half by 2030. However, current targets set by countries would result in emissions continuing to increase. Professor Huq expressed determination to continue working towards reaching an agreement on these issues, stating "We will try until the end. The war has not ended. We won't give up now." On Wednesday, the United States and China announced a deal to increase collaboration in addressing climate change, which includes reducing methane emissions, decreasing coal consumption, and preserving forests. A joint declaration on climate change between China and the US marks a return to a time when the two largest carbon emitters came together to support the 2015 Paris Agreement. However, more action is needed from both countries to truly address the climate crisis. Professor Huq praised the agreement but noted that there are still unanswered questions. He emphasized the importance of China and the US taking concrete steps to reduce fossil fuel emissions and encouraging other countries to do the same at the upcoming COP26 talks in Glasgow. However, the announcement lacks specific details, leaving uncertainty about what has truly occurred. Delegates and negotiators from Bangladesh, a nation highly susceptible to climate change impacts, expressed their perspectives at various levels of the talks, both privately and publicly. The primary focus is on negotiations and what can be attained from different governments, as it is challenging to obtain concessions from wealthier nations. This situation is likened to a war. | 4 |
Australia is one of the world's top carbon emitters per capita due to its heavy reliance on coal-fired power. The conservative government, led by the new deputy PM, has hindered the country's ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 by supporting the fossil fuel industries. The government argues that taking tougher action on emissions would lead to job losses, despite the fact that mining only accounts for around 2 percent of overall jobs in Australia. However, there is a need for a more honest and rational conversation about what is truly in Australia's best interests. The UN has called for phasing out coal by 2030 in OECD countries, including Australia, but a deal to phase out coal by 2025 was not reached in July by the G20 energy and environment ministers. However, certain analysts suggested that there is potential for advancements at the UN climate conference in Glasgow in November. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has indicated that Australia is moving towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions, though he has not specified a timeline for this goal. He has mentioned that Australia will revise its 2030 emissions projections ahead of the Glasgow talks. In contrast, many other industrialized nations have committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Hart recommended that the Australian government take advantage of this opportunity and transition to renewable energy sources. He stated that if coal is not quickly eliminated worldwide, climate change will cause widespread damage to the Australian economy, affecting industries such as agriculture, tourism, and services. | 4 |
The election was canceled by the Constitutional Court on Friday, and the head of the Election Commission stated that it would take months before a new vote could be organized. This leaves Yingluck in charge of a weakened caretaker government with limited authority. The ongoing crisis is the most recent development in an eight-year conflict between Bangkok's middle class and royalist establishment on one side, and supporters of Yingluck and her brother Thaksin Shinawatra on the other. Thaksin, who was removed as prime minister by the army in 2006, currently resides in Dubai to avoid imprisonment for abuse of power. Despite showing restraint for several months, Thaksin's supporters, known as the "red shirts," are now becoming more aggressive under new hardline leadership. A call has been made for a major gathering on April 5. Jatuporn Prompan, chairman of the "red-shirts" United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship, informed supporters late on Saturday that the destination, whether it be Bangkok or elsewhere, will be revealed at a later time. Jatuporn was involved in organizing the "red-shirts" uprising against a previous government, which resulted in a violent military crackdown in May 2010, causing over 90 deaths. Jatuporn is still facing terrorism charges from the events of 2010. In the current political turmoil, 23 people have died and over 700 have been injured since November. Addressing approximately 10,000 individuals in Pattaya, located to the southeast of Bangkok, Nisit Sintuprai issued a caution to Suthep Thaugsuban, the former opposition figure who has been leading demonstrations against Yingluck since November. Sintuprai emphasized the desire of the majority in the country for democracy and governance through elections, stating that they cannot accept a prime minister appointed by Suthep's supporters. The People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) led by Suthep is advocating for electoral changes that would decrease the influence of Thaksin and his strong backing from the rural population in the north and northeast. Parties affiliated with Thaksin have emerged victorious in every election since 2001, and it is widely predicted that Yingluck's Puea Thai Party would win any upcoming election under the current system. IMPEACHMENT IS POSSIBLE FOR PM YINGLUCK AS SUPPORTERS DISRUPT ELECTION
Suthep's supporters caused disruptions during the February 2 election, leading to voting being prevented in 28 constituencies. The Constitutional Court recently declared the ballot illegal due to the requirement for voting to take place nationwide on the same day. The Election Commission will convene on Monday to determine the next steps, though there had been reluctance to hold the February election amidst the political turmoil. Talks between opposing factions may be sought before setting a new polling date. The future of Yingluck's caretaker government is uncertain, with the immediate threat being impeachment over alleged negligence regarding a failed rice-buying scheme that has resulted in significant financial losses. This plan boosted Yingluck's popularity in the 2011 election, but this year, thousands of farmers, who are typically strong supporters of Thaksin, have protested in Bangkok because they have not received payment for their rice. Yingluck is facing scrutiny from an anti-corruption commission and could potentially be impeached soon after. If she is impeached, the Senate, which is expected to have an anti-Thaksin majority after an election on March 30, could remove her from office. Some experts believe that the Senate may then appoint a "neutral" prime minister, likely a figure favored by the anti-government demonstrators. Analysts suggest that independent agencies are pushing for Yingluck's removal and the dissolution of her entire cabinet in order to create a power vacuum and install a prime minister of their choosing. Kan Yuenyong, an analyst at the Siam Intelligence Unit, highlighted the courts and the anti-corruption commission as the key players in this process. He warned that if the government proceeds with their plan, their supporters will retaliate, leading to a more turbulent second half of the year. The economy is at risk due to the violence, with recent incidents including grenades near a judge's home, a car bomb near a protest camp in Bangkok, and explosive devices in Chiang Mai province. One of the targets was the Boon Rawd Brewery, known for producing Singha beer. One of the family members who owns it has been actively participating in PDRC rallies. Consumer confidence is currently very low, with the central bank recently lowering its economic growth forecast for 2014 to 2.7 percent from 3 percent. This is a significant decrease from the 4.8 percent forecast made in October last year, before the protests began. The stock market showed little reaction to Friday's court decision. Some stock analysts view the cancellation of the election as a positive development, as they believe it will encourage negotiations between political adversaries. Standard and Poor's rating agency expressed a contrasting opinion, stating that the Thai court's decision will likely prolong and potentially escalate the country's political divide, aligning with their anticipation of long-lasting political risks. Agost Benard, the associate director of sovereign ratings, made this statement. | 4 |
Farhad Saffi, looking sadly at his idle Milli Boot Factory in Kabul, is concerned that he is witnessing the failure of a dream for Afghanistan. The factory was once a symbol of local manufacturing and employment opportunities, but a decision by the US government to shift procurement to Afghanistan has resulted in local officials choosing cheaper boots from China and Pakistan. This unexpected change has left Saffi with a surplus of raw materials and no contracts, despite promises of stability from the US government. When the facility first opened, Afghan and US generals were excited to have their photos taken with the local success story. Inside the large white sheds, which used to house PVC piping machinery but now contain high-tech German injection molding and boot-making equipment, US Navy Rear Admiral Kathleen Dussault visited in 2010 to award 23-year-old Saffi with a quality certificate. This allowed the plant to supply the Afghan National Security Forces with top-quality boots under contracts valued at up to $40 million annually. Saffi's leather boots, which had undergone extensive quality testing in the United States, were sold for $62 per pair. In comparison, Chinese-made boots with imitation leather cost the Afghan government $22 per pair in a contract for up to 700,000 pairs per year. Despite the Afghan government's insistence on lower prices, Saffi explained that he could not sell his boots for less than $40, as the cost of the leather alone was $40 per pair. The inexpensive Chinese boots, made of fake leather, tend to fall apart easily. However, from 2002 to the end of 2011, a total of $85.5 billion was allocated for reconstruction in Afghanistan, with an additional $57 billion in international aid. NATO-led forces, responsible for procurement for Afghan security forces during the decade-long conflict, have been following "Afghan First" rules since 2010, prioritizing purchases from local companies to stimulate the economy, create jobs, and support anti-insurgent efforts. Afghan businesses were awarded contracts for items such as uniforms, boots, textiles, furniture, tents, software, and transformers, resulting in the creation of 15,000 jobs and saving $650 million on combat-related imports. Despite these savings, the daily cost of the war is estimated to be around $200 million. The Afghan First Policy aims to prevent locals from joining the Afghan Taliban fighters by providing better jobs and incomes. The $10-a-day Talib nickname refers to the payment offered to potential fighters. Some of the 700 workers laid off from Saffi's factory are considering joining the Taliban due to lack of other job opportunities as Western nations and NGOs plan to leave the country with the withdrawal of NATO combat troops in 2014. The workers believe that reopening the factory is crucial to avoid joining the Taliban for employment. "We need to support our families," explained Ares Khan, 23, while packing some of the final boots being produced by Milli before the government makes a decision. Employees at the factory were making between $400 and $900 per month, which is higher than the average salary in a country where nearly a third of the 30 million citizens live below the poverty line. However, many business owners and workers are concerned that security will deteriorate once Western businesses leave, taking job opportunities and investments with them to safer locations, as the wealthy elite in Afghanistan have been doing for years. Khan's friend, Khair Mohammad, who came to Kabul from Ghazni province, where NATO forces are currently involved in one of the last major offensives of the war, also believes that there is no future outside of the insurgency if the Afghan government cuts off job opportunities. "I am the only breadwinner for my family of sixteen people." Mohammad stated that when he returns to Ghazni, he will need to join the Taliban due to the high living costs in Afghanistan caused by the more than $12 billion spent on the war annually. US military officials have decided to entrust a significant portion of procurement to the Afghan government as part of the transition to Afghan security and control, with responsibility now resting with the Defence and Interior Ministries. Afghan companies, according to Kakiel, have provided a wide range of supplies for the country's security forces, including boots, uniforms, sleeping bags, construction, and IT services. The security forces are expected to total around 352,000. Milli is not the only company facing challenges due to the switch to local procurement. Other uniform and equipment suppliers are also concerned about expiring contracts or losing orders to competitors from other countries. Another company executive, who chose to remain anonymous out of fear of retribution, stated that his company had invested millions of dollars into the business, but their supply contracts are now uncertain. "The government has not confirmed if they will renew our contracts or choose to work with companies from other countries," the executive explained. Lieutenant-General Abdul Basir Asafzari, in charge of logistics and procurement at the Ministry of Defence, expressed concern about the company's reliance on imported materials from the US for manufacturing in Kabul, emphasizing the importance of securing contracts to avoid laying off employees. He noted that only 30 percent of the current supply was sourced from Afghan companies, with President Hamid Karzai urging the military to prioritize local firms. Asafzari explained that Milli's contracts were terminated due to importing substandard boots from China and other countries and misrepresenting them. He stated that Milli failed to meet its obligations. Asafzari stated that there were some complaints from soldiers regarding the quality of the boots. However, Mohammad Akbar Ahmadzai from the NGO Building Markets, which supports entrepreneurs in developing countries to create jobs and investment, confirmed that Milli's boots were genuine and passed US quality tests. Some business experts, who requested to remain anonymous, suggested that Milli and other companies may have faced challenges in Afghanistan's system of bribes and patronage, with more well-connected competitors trying to eliminate them. NATO's Kakiel mentioned that misunderstanding complex contract terms, such as only one year of guaranteed sales, may have also contributed to the challenges faced by Milli and others. In 2011, US agencies contracted over $4 billion to Afghan companies out of a total of $17.3 billion by the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. More than 90 percent of the spending in Afghanistan was on products from Afghan sellers, construction, support services, and transportation. However, an audit by the US government's Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction found that the Afghan First Initiative had issues with contract solicitation and vetting, as well as limited data on claimed employment benefits. Saffi, who returned to Afghanistan after his family fled during Taliban rule, expressed disappointment in both the US government and the future promised by Karzai. His faith in the country and his company has been shaken. He mentioned that many people in Kabul's business community were feeling anxious due to the unpredictable investment environment and worsening security situation. This feeling was heightened by a bold Taliban attack in mid-April. Saffi explained that he had to hire 30 personal bodyguards to ensure his children's safety while attending school, and police snipers were stationed on the roof of his home. He compared the struggles of his failing company to the challenges faced by the country, with himself as the president of his company and Karzai as the president of the country. As his company was declining and employees were leaving, he felt a parallel to the state of the nation. The country will experience the same fate. It is essential for the president to effectively govern his nation. | 4 |
Pressure is being put on the United States to set a 2020 goal for reducing greenhouse gases in order to improve the chances of reaching a climate deal in Copenhagen. The hosts of the preparatory meeting in Barcelona increased pressure on the United States, stating that they must not arrive in Copenhagen without a plan. African countries also demanded that rich countries, including the US, increase their emissions-cutting targets. The head of the UN Climate Change Secretariat emphasized the importance of the United States setting a clear target for reducing emissions at the Copenhagen conference. President Barack Obama, while addressing reporters at the White House, emphasized the significance of a particular element in the puzzle. He expressed optimism for a potentially crucial agreement in Copenhagen, but also acknowledged that it may not address all issues related to the matter. Obama highlighted the importance of taking a step forward and establishing a foundation for future advancements. The United States has not committed to a specific target for emission reduction by 2020, unlike the European Union and other developed nations that have set goals. Democrats in the US Senate plan to move forward with legislation in a key committee on Tuesday, despite a boycott by minority Republicans. The legislation aims to reduce US carbon dioxide emissions by 20 percent from 2005 levels. However, even if the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee approves the bill in the coming weeks, there is uncertainty about whether it will be approved by the full Senate this year. Delegates at the Barcelona talks emphasized the urgency of reaching a consensus on how to distribute emission reductions between wealthy and developing nations, as well as how to raise funds to support developing countries in addressing climate change. The issue of forests could further complicate the already challenging negotiations. Prime Minister Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow will insist on considering Russia's forests' ability to absorb carbon dioxide. This announcement came after talks with Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, who expressed hope of having enough progress to invite world leaders to the December conference soon. Australia reported a decrease in emissions last year, excluding the impact of forest fires. Both Denmark and the European Union urged Obama to take more action to reach a deal at the upcoming talks. Danish Climate and Energy Minister Connie Hedegaard expressed skepticism about Obama receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo while sending a delegation to Copenhagen without tangible results. Swedish Environment Minister Andreas Carlgren, who holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, noted that there has been a significant and real change in the American position, but they are still expecting more. The United States has stated its commitment to a UN deal, with head of the US delegation Jonathan Pershing in Barcelona emphasizing that the notion that the US is not making enough effort is incorrect. He pointed to various measures under Obama aimed at promoting clean energy and reducing emissions. Pershing stressed the importance of being a part of the Copenhagen deal, especially considering that the US is the second largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China. African countries demanded stricter emissions reductions from developed nations, with Gambia, Ethiopia, and Algeria expressing support for leaving the UN talks, according to Antonio Hill from Oxfam. Protesters outside the conference center placed hundreds of ringing alarm clocks to emphasize the urgency of reaching an agreement to combat increasing temperatures, floods, heatwaves, wildfires, and rising sea levels. | 4 |
US prosecutors are seeking the extradition of Meng Wanzhou, the Chief Financial Officer of Huawei, on allegations that she misled banks about the company's operations in Iran, potentially putting the banks at risk of violating US sanctions. Meng, who is the daughter of Huawei's founder, was arrested in Vancouver on Dec 1. She maintains her innocence and plans to contest the allegations at trial if she is sent to the US. The judge in a bail hearing on Monday postponed the proceedings to Tuesday to further discuss who will be responsible for Meng if she is released. Meng's lawyer proposed a C$15 million bail guarantee and offered her husband as surety to ensure she does not flee. However, the judge and prosecutor raised doubts about Meng's husband's ability to fulfill his duty as he does not reside in British Columbia, where Vancouver is situated, and would not face consequences if she were to violate her bail terms. The arrest of Meng has caused turmoil in the markets amid concerns that it could escalate tensions between the United States and China, which are already high due to tariffs. Both countries have agreed to trade talks that need to be finalized by March 1. Beijing has demanded the immediate release of Meng and warned of potential repercussions for Canada. Despite this, officials from China and the US seem to be avoiding connecting her arrest with the trade dispute. Meng's attorney proposed putting up C$14 million worth of property and C$1 million in cash as security. The prosecutor requested that half of the guarantee be in cash and the other half in property. The judge questioned Meng's avoidance of travel to the United States since 2017, suggesting it may have been to evade arrest. Martin argued that Meng stayed away due to the negative perception of Huawei in the US, and questioned what reason she would have to flee. Martin claimed that the evidence against her was not strong enough. He stated that if she were to escape or violate any orders, it would be a huge embarrassment for China. Meng seemed calm and composed in court at the beginning of the day, but later appeared more anxious as she spoke quickly with her legal team. She is arguing that she should be released due to her severe hypertension and concerns for her health. Huawei is the top provider of telecommunications network equipment globally and the second largest producer of smartphones. It generated approximately $92 billion in revenue last year, and unlike many other major Chinese technology companies, conducts a significant portion of its business internationally. US authorities claim that Huawei attempted to utilize banks to transfer funds out of Iran, a violation of regulations prohibiting companies from utilizing the US financial system to provide goods and services to sanctioned entities. Huawei and its legal representatives maintain that the company adheres strictly to the laws, regulations, and sanctions of the United States and other relevant parties. The company stated on Monday that they will continue to monitor the bail hearing tomorrow and believe that both the Canadian and US legal systems will come to a fair decision. | 4 |
Sánchez resides in Rincón, a coastal town in northwestern Puerto Rico known for surfing and beautiful sunsets. The town has become popular among wealthy investors seeking tax breaks. Despite his one-story home being only a short walk from the beach, Sánchez has received unsolicited offers from interested buyers. These investors are taking advantage of tax incentives aimed at bringing new residents and outside funds to Puerto Rico as the island works to recover from bankruptcy. The appeal of tax breaks has increased due to the coronavirus pandemic causing many companies to transition to remote work, prompting Americans living on the mainland to move to warmer areas. However, the arrival of wealthy new residents who must establish residency and purchase property in Puerto Rico within two years to maintain the tax breaks has led to higher home prices and the displacement of long-time residents who can no longer afford to stay. Hurricane Maria, which devastated thousands of homes in 2017, had already caused many residents to leave the island. The real estate boom, initially in San Juan, has now spread throughout the island with investors moving from the metropolitan area to smaller towns like Rincón. Apart from those seeking tax breaks, there are also new residents purchasing properties and driving up rents and home prices. However, it is the finance and tech investors seeking tax-break status that have garnered the most attention. Among them are cryptocurrency traders, who now frequent a seaside bar in Rincón for weekly happy hours. A new barbecue food truck that started operating in August accepts various cryptocurrencies as payment for its mainland-style chicken. The growing gentrification concerns many Puerto Ricans, leading them to question how an economy dependent on tax breaks for the wealthy can benefit local residents struggling to afford property. Gloria Cuevas Viera, a Rincón resident, expressed her sentiment by likening the impact of Hurricane Maria to putting a 'For Sale' sign on the island. A large number of investors purchase residential properties and later sell them at increased prices or convert them into short-term vacation rentals, transforming whole neighborhoods into Airbnb hubs and causing a lack of available housing for local residents. Forty-three percent of Puerto Ricans reside below the federal poverty line. Israel Matos, aged 45, must vacate his home in Rincón by March as the property was sold by the owner last year. Matos had the opportunity to purchase the house, but the option expired. The owner, hailing from Hermosa Beach, California, chose to sell to another buyer. Matos, a sound engineer for a television station, has been living in his home with his wife and two daughters for two years. He expressed frustration at being unable to find a suitable housing option in Rincón that fits his budget. Many Puerto Ricans are facing similar challenges due to rising property prices driven by outside investors. Matos described the situation as a father as incredibly difficult and unexpected. Many Puerto Ricans are unable to afford to stay in their homes due to outside investors purchasing properties and increasing prices. Demonstrators recently gathered in Old San Juan to protest tax breaks, particularly in front of a former children's museum now owned by Bitcoin billionaire Brock Pierce. The tax breaks fall under Act 60, which was initially enacted by the Puerto Rico government in 2012 as the island faced economic challenges, with increased interest following Hurricane Maria in 2017. In 2019, changes were made to the tax breaks in order to attract investors in finance, technology, and other industries. Moving to Puerto Rico can result in a reduction of income taxes on various sources of income for individuals. A billboard in Silicon Valley promotes Puerto Rico as a technology hub that aligns with the vision of potential investors. By October 2021, Puerto Rico had received a record-breaking 1,349 applications from individuals seeking to become resident investors, with 982 of them approved. Since 2012, over 4,286 applications have been approved, with more than 35% of them approved in the last three years. According to the law, an individual can be eligible for tax breaks if they have not resided in Puerto Rico for at least 10 years. To benefit from a 4% corporate tax rate and zero capital gains tax, the investor must also purchase a home. Unfortunately, the over 3 million Puerto Ricans already living on the island do not qualify for these tax breaks, leading to inequality in taxpayer responsibility. Heriberto Martínez Otero, the executive director of the Ways and Means Committee in the Puerto Rico House of Representatives, expressed concern over this issue. He mentioned that renters who are forced to leave due to high housing prices may move to more affordable neighboring towns but may end up spending more on gas and tolls for commuting. Homeowners who have sold their properties have profited from the increase in property values, which Gov. Pedro R. Pierluisi has praised. He mentioned that the passing of the tax law was motivated by a decline in the luxury real estate market, with the intention of attracting investors with capital to stimulate the real estate market. Policymakers were also worried about the significant decrease in the island's population due to economic challenges and natural disasters like Hurricane Maria. According to the census, the population of the island decreased by 11.8% from 2010 to 2020. Martínez Otero expressed concern that the purchase of residential properties by individuals who are not familiar with the consumption patterns in Puerto Rico is exacerbating the affordable housing crisis on the island. The increasing presence of outside investors buying properties is making it difficult for many Puerto Ricans to afford to remain in their homes. Sánchez, a homeowner in Rincón who also works as a landscaper, is involved in coordinating the town's federal Section 8 program, which offers affordable housing to low-income families through monthly $450 vouchers. However, he is facing challenges in finding homes at that price point. An oceanside meeting place in Rincón, Puerto Rico on January 13, 2022. Many residents of Puerto Rico are expressing concerns about being priced out of their homes due to outside investors purchasing properties and increasing costs. "I am concerned that local Puerto Ricans will not be able to afford to live or invest here and will be forced out," he explained. "I initially thought that property prices were only rising in the downtown area, but now even properties in the more remote mountain regions are becoming expensive." In Rincón, real estate broker Ingrid Badillo Carrero noted a significant increase in home prices over the past four years. In 2017, a two-bedroom condo would typically be listed at $290,000. Currently, the unit could now be priced at around $420,000, while the average annual income in Rincón is approximately $19,900. Badillo, who often works with investor clients looking for tax breaks, has been told by locals that he is selling out their country. Many investors are able to pay in cash, which is more appealing to sellers compared to selling to Puerto Ricans who may only be able to pay through a mortgage. In May, Elizabeth Stevenson and her husband, Tyler McNatt, relocated to Puerto Rico from Austin, Texas. They were seeking a way to avoid going to the office every day and began exploring investments in cryptocurrency as a means of generating income. Stevenson, who is a beneficiary of Act 60, is currently working as a consultant for a California movie producer who has relocated to Puerto Rico, in addition to trading cryptocurrency. Stevenson expressed excitement about the opportunity to learn and earn money in the cryptocurrency market. She recently signed a one-year lease for an apartment located a short walk from the beach. She is a member of multiple cryptocurrency groups for former mainland residents that frequently organize events in Rincón. Daniel Torgerson, a crypto investor who moved to Puerto Rico in June, organizes a weekly happy hour at the Aqua Marina Beach Club in Rincón. In early January, approximately 20 individuals gathered near the bar and pool, conversing under string lights and amidst the sounds of nocturnal coquí frogs. Torgerson inquired about everyone's feelings regarding the market that week and asked if there were any new projects they were enthusiastic about. One person mentioned solar bitcoin mining. Additionally, new residents have brought their children with them. Myriam Pérez Cruz, the principal at Manuel González Melo K-8 School in Rincón, mentioned that the school has had to incorporate additional coursework for students who are learning Spanish as a second language. In the 2016-17 academic year, a student survey found three native English speakers who required help with the Spanish language, according to Pérez. By the 2021-22 school year, this number had increased to 17 students. Matos, a resident of Rincón who needs to relocate by March, drove around searching for suitable rental signs. Following this, he visited the beach, sat on the sand, and attempted to unwind. However, shortly after parking his car, he began to feel uneasy. Matos mentioned that there were around 50 individuals at the beach, but he only noticed approximately five Puerto Ricans. He also remarked that Rincón has undergone significant changes. | 4 |
The finance adviser AB Mirza Azizul Islam has stated that the millennium development goals may not be achieved if donor countries do not fulfill their ODA commitments. Without proper official development assistance, many countries will continue to fall short of reaching these goals. | 4 |
Global institutional investors with over $6 trillion in assets have urged policymakers to quickly come to an agreement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting clean technology. Over 130 major investors, including the London Pensions Fund Authority, are calling for countries to commit to cutting emissions by 50 percent to 80 percent by 2050, aligning with the climate policy favored by US President-elect Barack Obama. Additionally, investors are urging policymakers to establish long and medium term emission reduction targets for developed countries and to expand the global carbon market. US investors, such as the California Public Employees' Retirement System, have also been advocating for legislation to support clean technologies. They have also urged the US Securities and Exchange Commission to require publicly traded companies to disclose climate-related risks in addition to other factors impacting their business. Mike Taylor, CEO of London Pensions Fund Authority, emphasized the concern of institutional investors regarding the risks posed by climate change to the global economy and their portfolios. The group of global investors is calling for strong policies to support capital allocation towards low carbon investments. They are advocating for countries to commit to a new binding agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol, which established targets for industrialized nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union aims to decrease greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020 and increase the use of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro, wave power, and biofuels by the same deadline. The United States is the only major industrialized nation that has not accepted the Kyoto Protocol, but is actively engaged in talks to create a new global agreement. Mindy Lubber, president of Ceres, a group of investors and environmental organizations focused on climate change, believes it is crucial for the United States to be part of this agreement. The global coalition of investors is aiming to make their concerns known before the upcoming climate change convention in Poland in December. | 4 |
During the election campaign that began on Monday, opposition leader Anthony Albanese failed to address questions about unemployment and interest rates. Prime Minister Morrison criticized Albanese and the Labour Party for their economic management skills, highlighting the economic opportunities post-pandemic. Despite polls showing Labour ahead, Morrison was still favored as the country's leader. Albanese apologized for his mistakes in handling economic data. He quoted Taylor Swift's hit song by saying he will "Shake it off" in response to reporters questioning whether the slip would impact the election. Albanese expressed his approach of owning up to mistakes and taking responsibility when necessary. Morrison highlighted his government's success in reducing the unemployment rate despite facing various challenges. Initially, Albanese stated he believed the current rate was around 5.4%. Morrison mentioned that they have a strong position in cricket, a popular sport in Australia, and have plans to increase job creation to pre-pandemic levels. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg stated that new jobs would be spread throughout the economy. Australia's unemployment rate is expected to drop below 3% earlier than predicted, with some economists even suggesting it could go below the budgeted forecast of 3.75%. Wage growth is projected to increase, but not enough to keep up with inflation, resulting in a decrease in real incomes this year. In order to appease upset voters, the budget in March raised a tax break for 10 million low- and middle-income earners and provided one-time cash payments for pensioners as well as a temporary reduction in fuel taxes. | 4 |
The G8 wealthy countries are interested in collaborating with the nearly 200 states participating in UN climate change discussions to establish a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% by 2050, according to a draft communique. The document, obtained by Reuters prior to its official approval by Group of Eight leaders at a summit in northern Japan, also stated that intermediate objectives would be necessary to meet the 2050 target. This declaration shifts the emphasis on combating global warming to UN-led discussions aimed at developing a new framework for after the Kyoto Protocol ends in 2012, and addresses internal disagreements within the G8. The UN negotiations are scheduled to conclude in Copenhagen in December 2009. The cautious wording of the climate statement, typically the most contentious aspect of summit deliberations, is also unlikely to appease those advocating for more specific objectives. Last year, the G8 group of wealthy nations, including Japan, Britain, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Russia, and the United States, agreed to consider the goal of cutting global emissions in half by mid-century. The European Union and Japan have pushed for this year's summit to set more ambitious targets and establish clear interim goals. However, US President George W Bush has maintained that the US cannot commit to binding targets unless other major polluters like China and India also limit their emissions. The European Union's leadership praised the climate change agreement as a step towards a new shared vision and progress towards a global deal in 2009. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso called it a strong signal to people worldwide and stated that the EU's objectives for the G8 summit had been met. Global warming is connected to other important topics like rising food and fuel prices, which are being discussed at a three-day meeting at a luxurious mountain-top hotel on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido. The leaders at the summit also acknowledged the uncertainty and risks facing the world economy, including the impact of increasing oil prices. Additionally, they hinted at the need for China to allow its tightly controlled currency to appreciate in order to address global financial imbalances. The G8 leaders also agreed to convene a world energy forum to bring major oil producers and consumers together to discuss output and prices. The escalating prices of food and oil, which reached a new high of $145.85 per barrel last week, are having a severe impact on the impoverished populations worldwide. A recent study by the World Bank warned that as many as 105 million more individuals could fall below the poverty line due to the surge in food prices, including 30 million in Africa. World Bank President Robert Zoellick emphasized the importance of the global community's response to this crisis, stating that it is crucial to support those most in need. In an effort to alleviate the situation, the G8 is set to introduce a series of measures to assist Africa, particularly its farmers, and has pledged to double aid to provide an extra $50 billion in assistance by 2010, with half allocated to the poorest continent in the world. The summit concludes on Wednesday with a Major Economies Meeting, which includes the G8 as well as eight other prominent countries that emit large amounts of greenhouse gases, such as India, China, and Australia. | 4 |
OPEC will support efforts to combat global warming and uphold stable oil prices after its heads of state meeting concludes on Sunday. However, only Saudi Arabia has promised financial support for research on climate change. Saudi King Abdullah announced a contribution of $300 million for environmental research, but other leaders have not made any commitments yet. Algerian Energy and Mines Minister Chakib Khelil stated that they are not committing to anything as they are unsure of the proposal, and as far as he knows, no other country has made any pledges either. OPEC Secretary-General Abdullah al-Badri stated that OPEC is willing to contribute to the development of carbon capture and storage technology to help reduce emissions. A draft final communique read by an OPEC delegate mentioned the group's recognition of climate change as a long-term challenge and its desire for stability in global energy markets, but did not include any mention of an environmental fund. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez expressed his expectation that the summit would reaffirm a commitment to stable and competitive oil prices. He cautioned that if the United States were to attack Iran over its nuclear program, crude oil prices, already around $100 per barrel, could potentially double on global markets. Chavez issued this warning to heads of state, including Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, during a meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Concerns about a potential attack by the United States or Israel on Iran, due to accusations of Iran seeking nuclear weapons, have contributed to the rise in global oil prices. Iran denies these allegations. Despite calls from consumer nations for OPEC to increase oil supply, a decision on this matter has been postponed until a meeting in Abu Dhabi on Dec. 5. Iran and Venezuela are considered to be in favor of higher oil prices, while Saudi Arabia has typically supported efforts to lower prices. Ecuador's President, Rafael Correa, suggested at a conference that oil should be priced in a currency other than the dollar. The decline in the value of the U.S. currency compared to other major currencies has contributed to the rise in oil prices to $98.62 last week, but has also weakened the purchasing power of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Saudi Arabia, a key U.S. ally and influential member of OPEC, led the group in rejecting a proposal by Iran and Venezuela to address concerns over the weakening dollar in the summit statement. Analysts believe that Saudi King Abdullah, as OPEC's "swing producer" and long-time supplier of crude oil to the United States, is determined to prevent leaders like Chavez and Ahmadinejad from overshadowing the summit with anti-U.S. rhetoric. During the summit, Chavez delivered a 25-minute speech calling on OPEC to combat global poverty, while King Abdullah humorously remarked to the Venezuelan president afterwards that he spoke for too long. The summit took place in a lavish hall adorned with crystal chandeliers and gold leaf toilet accessories. Ahmadinejad stated that OPEC should take a more active role in geopolitics and demand greater respect for member countries, while also urging powerful nations to cease threats against OPEC. He mentioned that he would share his thoughts on the matter at the end of the summit. Saudi Arabia recently suggested creating a consortium to supply Iran with enriched uranium for peaceful purposes in an attempt to ease tensions between the US and Iran. Despite this, Iran has no plans to stop its own enrichment activities. Concerned about Iran's nuclear capabilities, Gulf Arab countries, including OPEC members Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, have announced plans to develop their own nuclear energy programs. | 4 |
The finance minister, AMA Muhith, criticized donors for not fulfilling their aid pledges, which he believes has hindered Bangladesh's ability to overcome poverty and other challenges. He expressed these views at the launch of a report on Bangladesh's progress towards Millennium Development Goals at Sonargaon hotel in Dhaka. He emphasized the importance of donor agencies fulfilling their commitments in order to achieve MDGs, which include eradicating extreme poverty by 2015. Despite some progress, he acknowledged that there are still challenges in achieving these goals. He mentioned that the issue of child malnutrition continues to be a significant challenge. Muhith also stated that while progress has been made in solving sanitation problems, the arsenic issue still needs to be fully resolved. In terms of economic growth, he noted that the country's rate is satisfactory but lags behind neighboring countries. Other speakers at the event included Planning Minister AK Khandker and Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, who emphasized the need for additional international support to address the impacts of climate change in Bangladesh. Moni stated that natural disasters caused by climate change are hindering the country's development. She mentioned advancements in poverty reduction, women's empowerment, primary education, and child mortality. Progress report was presented by Planning Commission member Shamsul Alam. | 4 |
During his closing speech at the ninth consecutive Global Media Forum, DW Director General Peter Limbourg emphasized the importance of European values. He highlighted the need for Germany and Europe to uphold and share these values, acknowledging that there are instances where they fall short. Limbourg specifically mentioned issues such as arms sales, environmental pollution, and collaboration with corrupt regimes as areas where improvement is necessary. The event brought together over 2,000 participants from 110 countries in the former West German capital for a three-day annual Global Media Forum. The conference focused on addressing difficult topics related to "Media. Freedom. Values." Journalists in various countries face challenging circumstances, and the discussions centered around the role of media, freedom of expression, and the importance of protecting values. German President Joachim Gauck delivered an uplifting message to conference participants, emphasizing the shared responsibility of journalists worldwide. He highlighted the abundance of information available today, while also warning of the increasing potential for manipulation and disinformation. Gauck stressed the importance of upholding reliable journalism that can be trusted. A highlight of the Global Media Forum was the presentation of the Deutsche Welle Freedom of Speech Award to Sedat Ergin, editor-in-chief of Hürriyet newspaper in Turkey. Upon receiving the award, Ergin expressed concerns about the increasing issues related to freedom of expression not only in third world countries, dictatorships, and monarchies, but also in countries that claim to be democracies. He emphasized that even the European continent is not immune to this authoritarian trend. Kai Diekmann, a fellow journalist and publisher of the German newspaper "BILD", spoke highly of the Turkish editor, stressing the importance of press freedom and the need to address the dire situation of press freedom in Turkey. Some reactions from Turkish media aligned with the ruling party were extreme, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists in the country. The GMF once again discussed the vital role of bloggers and activists in societies lacking genuine freedom of speech. Egyptian satirist Bassem Youssef attended an award ceremony in Bonn for The Bobs, awards presented by Deutsche Welle to recognize outstanding international online activists. The German Commissioner for Human Rights Policy, Bärbel Kofler, participated in a panel discussion with bloggers from Bangladesh who are currently living in asylum in Germany and other European countries. The panel addressed the lack of protection for journalists facing threats from Islamist extremists in their home countries. Journalist and author Martin Walker also provided a somber outlook on the future of media during the Forum. Speakers from various countries emphasized that the media is currently undergoing a significant transformation. The increasing significance of direct communication with individuals worldwide via social media presents journalism with new possibilities. DW's Director General Limbourg emphasized the importance of seizing this opportunity in order to have a real impact. | 4 |
Chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed emphasized the importance of industrialized nations providing climate adaptation funds for developing countries, who are the most affected by climate change, without imposing any conditions. During the inauguration of the first 'SAARC Ministerial Meeting on Climate Change' in Dhaka, he also urged wealthier nations to share advanced technology to help developing countries improve their climate resilience. Fakhruddin stated that industrialized economies should offer adaptation funds and assist with technology transfer without any prerequisites. He also mentioned that developed nations, as the main polluters, have a crucial responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the main cause of global warming, within specified timeframes. This SAARC climate conference was organized in response to a proposal from Dhaka, as there are concerns that a significant portion of Bangladesh's land will be submerged due to rising sea levels caused by global warming. The meeting is anticipated to approve a joint declaration on taking action to address climate change, which will impact the SAARC region, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The entire Maldives island chain is at risk of being submerged due to rising sea levels. Fakhruddin stated that SAARC countries should unite to ensure that developed nations provide new and additional resources to support their adaptation efforts. He also mentioned that Bangladesh is working towards establishing an international climate adaptation center to exchange knowledge and best practices. It is essential for developed countries to commit unilaterally and unconditionally to reducing their emission levels. He emphasized the importance of taking action to protect us from the dangers of climate change. Fakhruddin warned that climate change will have devastating effects on millions of impoverished people by worsening floods, droughts, and salinity levels. He stated that this crisis could be the worst tragedy in human history, surpassing even the 'Black Death' and World War II. It is crucial that we do not remain passive and allow this to happen. SAARC Secretary-General Sheel Kant Sharma echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for developed countries to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions within specific timeframes. The inauguration was led by Devasish Roy, the special assistant for environment to the chief adviser, and also featured remarks from Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, the foreign adviser. | 4 |
Colombia's coach Jorge Luis Pinto reassured that the team will not be defeated despite their 5-0 loss to Paraguay in the Copa America. Pinto emphasized that the loss is not a catastrophe and that the team has not been destroyed in terms of footballing ability, tactics, or morale. He stated that the world has not ended and the team will continue to move forward. "We haven't given up yet, we're going to respond." Colombia started strong in their first Group C game on Thursday, but missed a penalty in the 28th minute. Paraguay scored two minutes later and Colombia struggled in the second half. Surprisingly, Colombia's defense had been solid leading up to the tournament, only allowing two goals in six games. Their next game is on Monday against Argentina, who had a 4-1 win over the United States in their first match. Pinto stated that changes will be made, including variations in playing style and players. He also drew a comparison between the current match and Colombia's 5-0 victory over Argentina in a 1993 World Cup qualifier, noting that both situations were similar in terms of performance. | 4 |
A major global report released on Tuesday emphasizes the importance of wealthy nations leading the way in reducing carbon emissions to protect the progress made in health, education, and poverty reduction for the world's poor. The UN Human Development Report (HDR) 2007-08, titled "Fighting climate change: Human solidarity in a divided world", calls on developed countries to offer incentives to developing nations to address the challenge of climate change. The report, prepared by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Synthesis Report, outlines a plan for climate change negotiations in Bali, Indonesia, stressing the urgency of taking action within the next ten years. The report warns that if action is not taken soon, temperatures could rise by more than two degrees Celsius, leading to the disappearance of the Himalayan glaciers which provide water and food for over two billion people. Kevin Watkins, lead author of the HDR 2007-08, stated that the carbon budget of the 21st century is being overspent and could run out by 2032, putting the most vulnerable populations at risk. The report calls on the world's richest countries to take responsibility by cutting emissions by 80 percent by 2050 and investing $86 billion annually in international adaptation efforts to protect the world's poor. The report suggests that developed countries should implement a new method for transferring clean energy technology to developing countries. It mentions the success of this approach in Bangladesh, where every $1 invested in adaptation initiatives can protect $2 to 3 in assets from flood damage. The report emphasizes the need for developing Asian countries, such as China and India, to reduce emissions by at least 20 percent by 2050. UNDP administrator Kemal Derviş stresses the importance of expanding access to affordable energy while also reducing carbon emissions. The report proposes the establishment of a Climate Change Mitigation Facility, funded by developed countries, to incentivize developing countries to pursue a more environmentally friendly development path. "According to Watkins, proper funding for technology transfer from wealthy nations to poorer nations must be a requirement for developed countries in order to address their carbon footprint. The pathway outlined in 'Fighting climate change' for the Bali meeting in December provides a definitive checklist for political leaders. This pathway calls for a binding and enforceable post-2012 multilateral agreement that is crucial in protecting the planet and its most vulnerable populations from the severe impacts of climate change. The checklist includes cutting emissions from developing countries by 20 percent by 2050, and from developed countries by 30 percent by 2020 and at least 80 percent by 2050 compared to 1990 levels. Additionally, it proposes the creation of a Climate Change Mitigation Facility to finance low-carbon energy investments in developing countries, providing them with the means to transition to low emission pathways and the motivation to commit to international emission reductions." This would require an annual investment of $25-50 billion. 3. Establish a fair cost for carbon by implementing both carbon taxes and expanding cap-and-trade programs globally. 4. Improve regulatory guidelines by implementing and enforcing stricter efficiency standards for vehicle, building, and electrical appliance emissions. Encourage the growth of low carbon energy sources, acknowledging the untapped potential for expanding the use of renewable energy and the necessity for immediate investment in innovative technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS). Dedicate $86 billion or 0.2 percent of the combined GDP of northern countries to the development of climate-resilient infrastructure and enhancing the ability of vulnerable populations to withstand the impacts of climate change. Incorporate adaptation into all strategies aimed at decreasing poverty and extreme inequality, such as poverty reduction strategy papers. Acknowledge the importance of carbon sequestration in forests and land in future global agreements, and support international financial transfers for deforestation, as proposed by Brazil and other countries. | 4 |
South Korea, the fourth largest economy in Asia, has committed to choosing one of three targets for carbon emissions by 2020, aligning itself with the Kyoto signatories in the fight against climate change. The government announced it would select a 2020 gas emission target this year from three options: an 8 percent increase from 2005 levels, remaining unchanged from 2005, or 4 percent below 2005 levels. Despite being one of Asia's wealthiest nations and a major industrial player, South Korea saw its emissions double between 1990 and 2005. Per-capita emissions of carbon dioxide based on 2005 levels were 11.1 tonnes, on par with some European countries and ranking as the 17th largest among OECD members. Sang-hyup Kim, Secretary to the President for National Future and Vision at the Presidential Office, noted that compared to developed countries, the targets may seem moderate. The efforts being made are sincere and reflect Korea's capabilities to curb emissions. The government has estimated that each target will cost between 0.3 and 0.5 percent of GDP. They plan to achieve this by increasing the use of hybrid cars, renewable and nuclear energy consumption, energy efficiency with light-emitting diodes, and smart grids. Developed countries that are part of the Kyoto Protocol are facing pressure from developing nations to increase their emissions reduction targets as part of a broader climate agreement being negotiated. These discussions will conclude at the end of the year at a major UN conference in Copenhagen. Wealthy developing countries like South Korea, Singapore, and Mexico are also being pushed to announce emissions reductions. South Korea's goals are relatively small when compared to those of more advanced countries like the United States and the European Union. Japan and the US are targeting emission reductions of 15 and 17 percent by 2020 from 2005 levels, while the EU and Britain are aiming for cuts of 20 and 34 percent by 2020 compared to 1990 levels. China and other developing nations are calling for developed countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 percent by 2020 in order to prevent severe consequences of global warming such as droughts, floods, and rising sea levels. | 4 |
According to a senior negotiator speaking to Reuters, China is open to incorporating its voluntary carbon emissions target into a mandatory UN resolution. This move could put pressure on developed countries to prolong the Kyoto Protocol. The outcome of the UN climate talks in Mexico's Cancun is dependent on reaching an agreement on solidifying national emissions targets post-2012, when the current round of Kyoto carbon caps expires. China's willingness to compromise is contingent on the United States committing to mandatory emissions reductions and an extension of the Kyoto Protocol, which currently includes nearly 40 developed countries but not the United States. Developing nations are in favor of continuing the protocol, while industrialized countries such as Japan, Russia, and Canada are pushing for a separate agreement that would regulate emissions for all nations. Previously, China had resisted the idea of making its domestic emissions targets mandatory, a requirement that currently applies to industrialized nations. "We have the ability to establish a resolution that China must adhere to," stated Huang Huikang, the Chinese Foreign Ministry's representative for climate change negotiations. "According to the (UN Climate) Convention, we could even implement a decision that is legally binding. The exact format can be discussed. Our contributions can be integrated into global initiatives." "We believe that addressing these issues does not require scrapping the Kyoto Protocol and beginning anew." Jennifer Morgan from the World Resources Institute in Washington described the proposal as a "gamechanger," highlighting its constructive nature and potential to pave the way for an agreement in Cancun. Alden Meyer from the Union of Concerned Scientists also viewed the proposal as a promising development, acknowledging that the specifics would be crucial. China's chief negotiator, Xie Zhenhua, later mentioned that China's targets could align with the Convention, allowing developing countries to use their own resources to make voluntary emissions commitments within the framework of the Convention. Huang stated that China would maintain its stance on including new emissions targets in an extended Kyoto agreement. Previously, China had insisted that its efforts were only binding domestically and could not be included in any international agreements. However, Huang now acknowledges that international cooperation is necessary and China is willing to compromise by fully participating in global efforts. Despite this willingness to compromise, China remains firm on not compromising on the issue of Kyoto. Last year at a summit in Copenhagen, developing nations, including China, the top carbon emitter, agreed to voluntarily take steps to reduce their emissions. China's commitment was to decrease its "carbon intensity" - the amount of carbon dioxide emitted per dollar of economic growth - by 40-45 percent by 2020 compared to 2005. Huang suggested that this intensity target could be included in a resolution. | 4 |
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed disappointment with the progress on climate change at the G8 summit in Italy, stating that the commitments made so far were insufficient. He emphasized the urgent need for stronger action to address the issue, calling it a critical responsibility for the future of humanity and the planet. Despite the G8 leaders agreeing to cut emissions by 80% by 2050, Ban Ki-moon insisted that more significant reductions are necessary sooner rather than later. President Barack Obama also acknowledged the need for greater efforts to bridge the gap with developing countries on climate change, following criticism from the UN chief. At the first day of the Group of Eight major industrialized nations meeting in L'Aquila, Italy, the G8 was not successful in convincing China and India to commit to cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2050. President Obama, who wanted to have an impact on his first G8 summit by leading a meeting on the environment with wealthy and emerging nations, mentioned that there was still potential for progress before the UN climate change treaty talks in Copenhagen in December. White House spokesperson Robert Gibbs stated that Obama told Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva that there was still time to resolve the disagreement before the important meeting. Obama was set to lead the 17-member Major Economies Forum (MEF) in an effort to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels, although agreement on emission cuts was not reached. Chinese President Hu Jintao's absence due to dealing with ethnic conflicts in China's northwest, where 156 people have died, hindered progress. Sharing the burden of addressing climate change is a pressing issue as temperatures have increased by 0.7 Celsius since the Industrial Revolution. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown expressed hope that all countries, including major powers like the United States, Japan, and China, would agree on temperature targets. However, a G8 source doubted the feasibility of reaching a deal on emissions. India emphasized that developing countries need financial assistance from wealthy nations to address the impacts of climate change, such as floods and rising sea levels. Developing nations also expect wealthier countries to make more significant emissions cuts by 2020. The G8 countries have agreed to a goal of reducing global emissions by 50 percent by 2050, with the United States agreeing to this for the first time. Additionally, they have set a goal of an 80 percent reduction in emissions for developed countries. However, Russia stated that it may not be able to meet this target by 2050, and Canada's Environment Minister Jim Prentice described the 80 percent goal as an "aspirational goal." The first day of the summit was dominated by discussions on the world economy, with rich nations acknowledging the significant risks to financial stability. China, along with Russia, India, and Brazil, used the second day to argue for diversification of the global reserve currency system away from reliance on the dollar, which is a sensitive issue in currency markets. State Councilor Dai Bingguo stated that there is a need for a more effective system for issuing and regulating reserve currencies in order to maintain stability in exchange rates and promote a diverse international reserve currency regime. The G8 and G5 expressed hope for progress in the stalled Doha trade talks, aiming to conclude them by 2010. The Doha round, initiated in 2001 to assist developing countries, has faced challenges due to proposed tariff and subsidy reductions. The G5 emphasized the importance of addressing issues related to Doha to boost confidence in global markets, urging wealthy nations to eliminate trade barriers and provide financial support to poorer countries. | 4 |
When 96 Chinese individuals arrived at Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei to participate in a music contest with cash prizes, they discovered they had been deceived by a con artist who had fabricated invitations from the city of Taipei. The scammer took their entry fees and left them stranded at the airport in mid-February. Some of the musicians were so upset that they refused to go back home. Experts on crime predict that such fraudulent activities will rise in Asia, particularly in greater China, due to the economic downturn, which drives swindlers to target vulnerable individuals seeking a change in their fortunes. Chu Yiu-kong, a criminologist at Hong Kong University, stated, "We see more and more victims now because of the economic crisis." Chinese individuals have a strong affinity for money and can easily become ensnared by it. They also have a belief in fortunate chances, particularly during challenging periods. The trade-dependent economies of Asia are currently suffering from a worldwide downturn. Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan are experiencing a recession, leading to companies in the area reducing production, halting job hiring, and laying off employees to conserve funds. Experts in crime believe that scammers tend to flourish in these types of dire economic situations. Scams that are expected to increase include job search deception, fraudulent money lending, and persuading individuals to pay high fees for fake lottery winnings or business opportunities. A recent popular scam involves con artists posing as recruiters in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China, tricking job seekers into investing in companies that do not exist. Job seekers like Zhou Yang from Shenzhen, China, are now wary of roadside job agencies due to the prevalence of scams targeting desperate individuals. According to local media reports, a scam artist in south China managed to earn 800,000 yuan ($117,000) last year by sending text messages from a mobile phone using a common Chinese name to demand repayment of a debt. Many victims who fell for this scheme were already in debt to various individuals and believed they were being pressured to pay back what they owed. This type of scam only adds to the suffering of those who are already struggling financially. Chang Chin-lan, a prevention officer with Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Bureau, expressed concern that such scams could lead to desperation and a decline in morals. Police statistics in Taiwan show that deception crimes increased by a third from around 31,000 in 2007 to 41,000 in 2008. In the fourth quarter of 2008, Hong Kong police reported a significant increase in deception crimes, from 1,071 to 1,414 cases. In Singapore, where authorities are expecting a rise in phone scams and impersonation fraud due to the weakening economy, "cheating and related offences" have risen by about 10 percent from 2,917 in 2006 to 3,254 last year. The Singapore Police Force has warned that phone scams are likely to continue in difficult economic times, with criminals coming up with new tactics to deceive victims into giving up their money. Advancements in technology have also contributed to the growth of scams, making it easier for con artists to target victims across borders. The increase in costly hoaxes in Asia since 2001 can be attributed to the proliferation of the Internet and mobile phones, which provide anonymity and protection from legal consequences in multiple countries, according to Tsai Tien-mu, a criminology professor at Taipei Police College. Tsai mentioned that it is now simple for anyone to contact anyone else, whereas in the past, the aggressor had to physically meet the victim. Due to the ability of con artists to easily conceal themselves, law enforcement faces challenges in solving fraud cases. In Taiwan, police officers are only able to resolve 10 percent of their cases. On the other hand, in Hong Kong, authorities prioritize public education over tracking down individual con artists, according to Chu from Hong Kong University. Many times, scammers are located in China, making it difficult for law enforcement in Hong Kong to apprehend them. According to Zhou, a job seeker in Shenzhen, the police in mainland China are not very helpful to victims of fraud. Zhou stated that even if you are scammed, contacting the police is pointless as they rarely respond and provide assistance. | 4 |
The top climate change official at the UN has urged the European Union to quickly develop strategies to assist developing nations in combating global warming, in order to prevent a potential deadlock that could hinder global action. Yvo de Boer emphasized the importance of industrialized countries prioritizing this issue and providing additional resources to help poorer nations reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In Bali, 190 nations agreed to establish a global plan to address climate change by the end of 2009, building upon the Kyoto Protocol which currently binds 37 industrialized nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions until 2012. This would then motivate developing countries to shift their economies from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources. The commitment of developing nations, particularly China and India, is crucial for many developed countries, including the United States, to reduce emissions. The United States is the only wealthy nation not part of the Kyoto agreement. The lack of resources to engage developing countries is creating a dilemma for the United States, Japan, Canada, Australia, and possibly the EU in moving forward with emission reductions, according to de Boer, head of the U.N. The Climate Secretariat in Bonn is discussing the EU's role in combatting climate change, as predicted by the U.N. Climate Panel to result in more heatwaves, floods, droughts, and rising seas. One proposed idea for new funding includes auctioning carbon dioxide emission rights in the EU and using the proceeds to assist developing nations. Another option is to raise a levy on a Kyoto project that enables wealthy nations to invest in reducing greenhouse gases in developing countries. De Boer emphasized that EU budgets allocated for research and development could play a significant role in mitigating climate change. He stressed the importance of generating resources for developing countries in order to encourage their participation in climate change efforts. De Boer urged French President Nicolas Sarkozy to finalize an EU package of climate measures during the French EU presidency in the latter half of 2008. The EU Commission had proposed measures in January, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2020, increasing the use of renewable energy in power production to 20 percent, and implementing 10 percent of biofuels in transport by 2020. De Boer emphasized the need for the package to be completed under the French presidency so that it could be presented to the European Parliament. France and Germany expressed concerns last week that the plan could put European jobs at risk. De Boer emphasized the importance of the European Union following through on its commitments and sharing the burden of achieving the target. It is crucial for the EU's credibility on the international stage to provide clear signals on how the target will be met. To read more environment blogs from Reuters, click on the link provided. | 4 |
Speakers at a conference at the London School of Economics warned of the serious environmental, ecological, social, and economic impacts that the planned unilateral construction of the Tipaimukh Dam by India will have on the millions of people of Bangladesh and northeastern India. They called for a joint feasibility study between Bangladesh and India before any dam construction to find a fair and equitable solution to the potential environmental disaster. It was emphasized that as an upper riparian country, India has a moral and legal obligation to consult with Bangladesh before proceeding with any dam projects. Dr. Hasanat Hussain MBE, the convenor of the World Forum of the Voice For Justice, chaired the conference, which was attended by British treasury minister Stephen Timms who commended the organizers for hosting the forum in London. He informed the conference that the British government will always support the oppressed globally and collaborate with organizations like VFJ to advocate for human rights and justice for the underprivileged. The event marked the inaugural world forum of VFJ, organized at the London School of Economics by a coalition of its European, US, Canadian, and Asian sectors. Attendees included Bangladeshi expatriate academics, experts, VFJ members, and various individuals from the British-Bangladeshi community in the UK. Abdul Moyeen Khan, former planning and science minister, and Sabih Uddin, former Bangladesh high commissioner to the UK, participated remotely. Concerns were expressed at the conference regarding the potential impact of constructing barriers on common rivers, which could lead to a humanitarian crisis for the millions who rely on the Surma and Kushiara rivers. Dr K M A Malik from the University of Cardiff presented a paper on Climate Change in South Asia, focusing particularly on Bangladesh, at the conference. Additionally, Dr Mahbub Khan from California State University and Hasan Mahmud, the director of Sharia Law at the Muslim Canadian Congress, presented papers on 'Rights of Migrant Workers in Gulf States' and 'Women's rights in Islam', respectively. The speakers emphasized the importance of formal bilateral agreements between migrant-sending countries like Bangladesh and the Gulf states where migrant workers face widespread allegations of human rights violations. The conference urged the Gulf states to prioritize the human rights of migrant workers who play a significant role in their economies and contribute to remittances for their home countries. Hasan Mahmud's paper highlighted that Islam and authentic Sharia law protect and promote women's rights in a fair and just manner. He expressed remorse for the fact that social and cultural biases have caused the misinterpretation and distortion of laws, leading to discriminatory treatment of women in various societies. Professor Anthony Booth from Christchurch University, UK, Prof. Shamsul Islam Choudhury from Roosevelt University, US, Dr. Abdur Rahman and Dr. Zakia Rahman from Limmeric University, Ireland, Dr. Stephanie Eaton from Kingston University, UK, Luthfur Rahman Choudhury, and the joint convenors of the World Forum of Voice For Justice from various cities in the UK participated in the question and answer sessions at the end. | 4 |
Sayed Talat Kamal reported from Durban, South Africa that developing countries are expressing concerns about the lack of seriousness shown by rich countries in addressing climate change. Specifically, the US has been criticized for being slow to act on important climate change issues. Delegates from Europe and the African bloc at the UN Climate Summit in Durban have spoken out against the US stance. Mali delegate Seyni Nafo stated that developed countries do not seem to be taking climate change seriously as a global issue, and called for the US to show leadership in tackling the crisis. The EU's chief negotiator, Arthur Runge-Metzger, expressed concerns about the US delegation being hindered by the current US political climate, where climate change is seen as a controversial issue. He mentioned that the Obama administration faces challenges in advancing climate change initiatives due to resistance in Congress. The US is seen as delaying progress in negotiations by pushing for conditions in the agreement that would legally require all countries to limit their greenhouse gas emissions. This has also stalled discussions on how to allocate US$100 billion to help developing countries transition to low-carbon economies and address the impacts of global warming. Climate change is caused by greenhouse gases trapping heat in the atmosphere, resulting in rising global temperatures and extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods, sea level rise, droughts, erosion, and increased salinity. It is widely agreed that a temperature increase of over 2 degrees Celsius would lead to irreversible climate change. Global studies supported by the United Nations and the scientific community suggest that in order to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees, global emissions need to be reduced to 40 percent of 1990 levels by 2020 and to 95 percent of 1990 levels by 2050. It is also crucial that emissions do not peak after 2015. The United States has expressed a preference for voluntary pledges by countries to control emissions, rather than binding targets. The US has committed to reducing its emissions by 17 percent from 2005 levels by 2020, a pledge that is unlikely to change in the near future according to US delegation chief Jonathan Pershing. However, Runge-Metzger argues that even if all countries fulfill their voluntary pledges, it would only amount to about half of what is necessary to prevent a potential climate crisis. Rene Orellana, the leader of the Bolivian delegation, strongly rejected the Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (Redd) initiative in Bolivia's first official statement. Orellana emphasized that forests play a crucial role in providing food security, water resources, and biodiversity for indigenous populations, rather than just serving as carbon stocks for emissions offsetting schemes. Redd stated that the forest's function has been reduced to just carbon stocks. Orellana criticized certain aspects of the Green Climate Fund, specifically the payments based on results of green initiatives. Despite recent political instability, Bolivia has remained steadfast in its environmental stance at the 17th conference of parties to the UN climate change convention. This year, the country passed groundbreaking laws giving nature equal rights to humans. Scientists predict that heat waves, which currently occur once every 20 years, will start happening annually due to rising greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Coastal regions and islands are at risk of being flooded due to global warming, and within ten years, an additional 250 million people could be affected by water shortages. Advocates for climate action believe that stabilizing carbon concentrations in the atmosphere would only slightly slow economic growth, but the benefits of improved health, increased energy security, and more reliable food sources would outweigh the costs. | 4 |
The state minister for the environment criticized developed countries for their deceptive behavior regarding climate funds. Hasan Mahmud, speaking at a discussion on the upcoming climate summit, accused rich countries of making false promises and using trickery when it comes to providing funds to address climate change in poorer nations. He also pointed out that these countries have not kept their promise to reduce carbon emissions. Hasan mentioned that at the Copenhagen conference in December 2009, developed countries had pledged $30 billion for Fast Start Funding to help countries vulnerable to climate change impacts, but only eight percent of the funds had been paid by November 2011, despite the commitment to clear the funds by 2012. He mentioned that there is a deception involved, as they claim to have already provided the money. However, upon closer examination, it is evident that the funds given in 2008 are labeled as Fast Start Funding. This discussion took place before an upcoming climate change conference in Durban, South Africa starting on Nov 28. The minister from Bangladesh suggested establishing a central entity to allocate the funds at the conference. He also mentioned that it is important for "need" to be the main factor in determining which countries receive funds, rather than favoring those with better relations with donors. He expressed concern that developed countries have not made significant progress in reducing carbon emissions and are contributing to global warming. Hasan noted that the average person in Bangladesh emits 0.3 tonnes of carbon per year. The amount is 1.6 tonne in developing nations and 15-20 tonne in developed countries. He also voiced optimism that the Climate Vulnerable Forum on Sunday, featuring United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon and prime minister Sheikh Hasina, will yield favorable results. Qazi Kholiquzzaman, chairman of the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation, led the roundtable discussion. | 4 |
In Copenhagen, the EU's pledge of 10 billion euro over three years to the climate adaptation fund was deemed insufficient by Bangladesh's state minister for environment. Hasan Mahmud expressed concern that the EU did not specify if this commitment was separate from Official Development Assistance (ODA). He emphasized the need for Annex 1 countries to contribute around 1.5 percent of GDP to the adaptation fund, which could potentially create a fund of $400 to $600 billion. The state minister believes that the EU's proposal to raise funds for adaptation is insufficient, as it falls short of the $400-600 goal. He emphasized the need for a separate climate fund specifically for poor and vulnerable nations, separate from existing ODA and not under the control of financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank. He insisted on the creation of a new institution that is easily accessible and transparent. Hasan stated that 70% of funds should go to the least developed or most vulnerable countries, with 15% specifically allocated to Bangladesh. He highlighted that over one billion people worldwide are at risk from climate change. Hasan mentioned that Bangladesh is leading the formation of a new group called the Most Vulnerable Countries (MVCs) and has already reached out to potential member countries. He suggested that around 20 countries could be included in this new group. He explained that the UN recognizes the G-77 or LDCs for economic development, and he is working towards gaining UN recognition for a similar group focused on climate change. He believes it is important to create a new group of vulnerable countries to improve negotiation efforts. Hasan emphasized that Bangladesh is the most vulnerable country according to the Global Climate Risk Index, with 15% of the 1 billion most vulnerable people residing there. So, Bangladesh is requesting that 15 percent of the adaptation fund be allocated to them because they are heavily impacted by climate change, experiencing issues like sea level rise and extreme weather. The delegation from Dhaka held a discussion at the conference titled "Bangladesh: Victim of Climate Change." Dr. Ainun Nishat, a climate expert, discussed the effects of climate change on food and agricultural production, water management, health, and infrastructure. | 4 |
Reinhart, who was promoted to a senior management position as part of the bank's efforts to regain trust after ethical concerns, stated that key ideas for the new product were already established. These included a requirement for more transparency regarding the methodology, a heavier reliance on survey data from companies, and less emphasis on ranking countries. Reinhart emphasized that all details would be made public in order to restore credibility. The bank would also prioritize survey data to minimize subjective judgment, and eliminate the competitive aspect of the rankings that encouraged countries to manipulate the system. In September, the bank's board decided to stop releasing the annual "Doing Business" rankings due to data irregularities in the 2018 and 2020 versions. Senior bank officials, including former chief executive Kristalina Georgieva, were accused of pressuring staff to alter the data. A law firm, WilmerHale, is currently investigating possible staff misconduct related to the data changes that favored certain countries like China and Saudi Arabia. The International Monetary Fund's board supported Georgieva after examining the allegations, but she may still be implicated in the ongoing investigation. Reinhart mentioned that the situation has damaged the World Bank's credibility and rebuilding trust will require time and effort. She emphasized the importance of credibility being based on systems rather than personalities, and noted that the bank had implemented numerous safeguards in response to external reports over the past year. She stated that while nothing in life is completely guaranteed, taking measures can help reduce the potential for misuse and abuse. She hopes that credibility will eventually be established, but acknowledges that it can be difficult to gain and easy to lose. Reinhart initiated a thorough review of the Doing Business methodology by an external advisory panel in response to internal concerns about potential data manipulation in the reports. The critical 84-page review that followed called for various corrective measures and changes, pointing out a consistent government interference in the scoring process. It criticized the bank for not being transparent about the data used and recommended that it cease offering consulting services to governments to boost their scores, a practice that had already been stopped in 2020 and 2021. Reinhart mentioned that the bank would further analyze the impact of the scandal and determine additional necessary actions after the completion of the second WilmerHale report. "We will address that issue once we have the complete report," she stated. | 4 |
Two British ministers arrived in Dhaka on Monday, stating that the UK will assist Bangladesh in advocating for the interests of the least developed countries (LDCs) at the important Copenhagen climate negotiations in December. The assurance was given by Douglas Alexander, UK minister for international development, and Ed Milliband, responsible for energy and climate change. This commitment was made a day before Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's trip to Geneva to attend the World Climate Conference-3. Alexander mentioned that discussions would focus on how the UK can help Bangladesh in representing the LDCs at the Copenhagen summit. Following their arrival, the British ministers met with Hasina to discuss climate change and development cooperation between the two countries. Bangladesh currently chairs the 50-member LDC Group, comprising countries most susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change, largely due to emissions from developed nations. Wealthy nations, including Britain, are seeking to form a partnership with Less Developed Countries (LDCs) in order to urge economic powerhouses China and India to commit to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. At an upcoming meeting in Copenhagen, UN member countries will work to create a new international legal agreement aimed at reducing carbon emissions, replacing the current Kyoto Protocol which only had emission reduction requirements for developed nations. The Bali climate talks in 2007 acknowledged the need for major emerging economies to also reduce emissions. By joining forces with developed nations, LDCs can increase pressure on China and India, who are now recognized as significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Bangladesh is considered one of the countries most at risk from the impacts of climate change. Its actions in adapting to and reducing risks provide valuable lessons and motivation for other nations. Ed Milliband acknowledged the significant challenges faced by Bangladesh and affirmed the UK's commitment to supporting the country in overcoming them. The visiting ministers enjoyed dinner with foreign minister Dipu Moni at the state guest house Padma on Monday evening. The UK government's International Climate Champions Initiative in Bangladesh was launched by Alexander and Milliband at the British High Commission Club. As part of this initiative by the British Council, 15 Bangladeshi youths aged between 18 and 35 will be selected to attend the Copenhagen summit. The main aim of the project is to raise awareness about climate change and its impact on the younger generation. Interested individuals must submit proposals on climate change, and a panel led by Dr Atiq Rahman of the Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies will choose the final 15 candidates. | 4 |
French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius, who is leading the U.N. conference, stated his intention to release a nearly final draft on Thursday afternoon in order to minimize disagreements and prepare for a final round of revisions. He expressed his goal of reaching a final agreement during a meeting with U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon before the talks resumed. Fabius emphasized the need for an agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions responsible for global warming to be completed by Friday, the official closing date of the meeting, without extending into additional days like previous conferences. However, ministers and negotiators from 195 countries are still divided on key issues, including which countries should provide the hundreds of billions of dollars necessary to assist developing nations in transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources. The current issue has worsened tensions behind the scenes between the United States and China regarding the differing financial contributions of countries, as pointed out by US Secretary of State John Kerry. While the Chinese did not delve into specifics, they mentioned a possibility for compromise. The debate over whether to aim for a limit of 1.5 degrees or 2 degrees will continue in the upcoming draft, with further discussions needed before a resolution is reached, according to Chinese negotiator Gao Feng. The goal is to reach an agreement by Friday or Saturday. The discussions have reignited disagreements over the level of ambition the agreement should have in addressing the increase in global temperatures. Developing countries are pushing for a long-term goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, even though current carbon emission cuts fall short of that target. Many are still wary of the failed negotiations in Copenhagen in 2009. There is a strong desire to reach an agreement this time, but the question remains whether it will be strong or weak. Ramos-Horta emphasized that no country should expect to have all their demands met in the accord. He informed Reuters that a treaty is not set in stone like the Bible and can be reviewed, implying that the agreements made in Paris could potentially be altered and strengthened in the future. | 4 |
The focus of the first UN special session on climate change was on wealthy countries, with policymakers urging long-standing polluters to take on a significant portion of the responsibility for reducing greenhouse gases. British economist Nicholas Stern emphasized the need for both rich and developing nations to be involved in a global agreement to address human-made emissions. Stern proposed a global target of a 50 percent reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050, with wealthier countries taking on even larger objectives, aiming for around 75 percent cuts due to their past responsibility and greater access to resources. Stern, a former head of the British government's economic service and now at the London School of Economics, suggested that responsibility may involve funding emissions cuts in other countries. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown also emphasized the need for industrialized countries to take greater action on climate change, acknowledging that the poorest nations will be most affected. Sunita Narain, director of India's Center for Science and Environment, criticized the lack of substantial action by wealthy nations in reducing emissions, despite their rhetoric on the issue. At a recent gathering, environmental scientist John Holdren from Harvard University attributed droughts, floods, rising seas, and more intense storms to global climate change, rather than natural climate variability. Despite being one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases, the United States did not make a statement at the meeting and has resisted setting firm targets for reducing emissions, citing concerns about the impact on the economy. Instead, the US has advocated for voluntary emissions cuts. President George W. Bush, along with other leaders from the Group of Eight nations, agreed to make substantial reductions in climate-warming emissions and negotiate a new global climate agreement that would extend and broaden the Kyoto Protocol. The two-day climate meeting at the United Nations, which ends on Wednesday, is unique in both its content and approach. The event is environmentally friendly, as any carbon emissions produced from air travel and the UN Headquarters in New York are balanced out by funding a biomass fuel project in Kenya. | 4 |
The hearing follows a series of sexual assault scandals and recent Pentagon statistics indicating a significant increase in unwanted sexual contact within the military. Top military officials, along with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee to address the issue and assure Congress of their commitment to addressing it. While some lawmakers are pushing for a change in the way sex crimes are prosecuted, others argue that maintaining the authority of commanders is essential for maintaining unit cohesion and administering justice. Despite ongoing criticisms of the military's handling of sexual assault cases, some believe that radical changes are necessary to address the problem. The Defense Department's report estimated a 37% increase in cases of unwanted sexual contact in the military in 2012, sparking further concern and outrage among lawmakers. Senator McCain expressed his frustration over the continued reports of sexual misconduct in the military, emphasizing the need for action rather than just talk. Senator Levin, however, showed understanding towards the military's perspective on the importance of the chain of command in addressing these issues. Levin stated that only the chain of command has the power to implement a zero-tolerance policy for sexual offenses and address any issues with command climate that allow sexual assaults to occur. | 4 |
A climate tribunal organized by Oxfam in Dhaka has blamed developed countries, particularly Annex-1 countries, for the destruction of fisherfolk communities in coastal Bangladesh due to climate change. The tribunal, held at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, aimed to find legal ways to protect victims of climate change. The jury panel, led by Mizanur Rahman of the Bangladesh Human Rights Commission, heard testimonies from various climate victims, including housewives in cyclone-affected areas and fishermen who ended up in Indian jails. It also received input from two experts on climate change and international law in an attempt to establish a connection between the science of climate change, its national and international legal aspects, and the ongoing multilateral negotiations. Unfortunately, there is still no globally binding legal instrument that could facilitate compensation to countries affected by climate change from the developed world, the major carbon emitters, as stated by legal expert Ahmed Ziauddin. While Bangladesh can bring complaints to international courts such as the UN, WTO, and UNESCO, there is no way to seek individual damages. Ziauddin suggested that an act for climate change and relevant article should be included in Bangladesh's constitution. He also mentioned that Bangladesh lacks a legal definition of climate change. Climate change expert Ahsan Uddin Ahmed stated to the tribunal that developed nations are avoiding their responsibilities by requesting specific accounts of damage caused by climate change, despite the scientific evidence proving its existence. The jury, after listening to testimonies, suggested creating a separate law and incorporating an article in the constitution regarding climate change. They determined that developed nations, being primarily responsible for climate change, should bear the costs of mitigation efforts. The jury also noted that the human rights of coastal area residents had been violated by the impacts of climate change. The jury panel was made up of legislators Saber Hossain Chowdhury, Tarana Halim, Hasanul Huq Inu, and economist Quazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmed. | 4 |
At the conclusion of three weeks of mid-year climate talks conducted online because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Patricia Espinosa urged nations to set aside their differences and collaborate in the months leading up to the crucial COP26 negotiations in Glasgow. She acknowledged that governments had effectively participated in the virtual meetings and had made strides in various areas, such as establishing common time-frames for emission reduction goals and improving transparency in reporting climate actions. However, disagreements persist regarding the regulations governing global carbon markets, requiring additional political guidance, according to the UN climate body. Espinosa emphasized the importance of continued efforts to make significant progress before COP26, as there is much at stake, as stated by the top UN official. I am encouraging all of us to meet the challenges of our time, to complete the necessary tasks, to resolve our differences, and to keep our promises. The June discussions were the initial official UN climate talks since the end of 2019, delayed by the pandemic. The COP26 summit's goal is to finalize regulations for the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change to ensure full implementation, according to UN officials. "Success at COP26 is crucial," Espinosa stated to reporters on Thursday, emphasizing its importance in the fight against the climate crisis, in promoting green recovery, and in supporting multilateralism during a critical period. Stumbling blocks remain as many countries have not yet submitted stronger climate action plans that were required last year under the Paris agreement but were delayed due to the pandemic. The promised emissions reductions by governments are far from what is necessary to meet the Paris goals of limiting global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius, according to the United Nations. The failure of wealthy nations to fulfill climate finance commitments to aid poorer countries in transitioning to renewable energy and adapting to climate change impacts is also causing concerns. Additionally, the pandemic has created further complications as many developing nations are struggling to access vaccines, potentially affecting their ability to attend the COP26 summit in person. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, as the host of the conference, announced this month that his government is in discussions with the United Nations regarding the provision of COVID-19 vaccinations to accredited delegations who may otherwise not have access to them. Diann Black-Layne of Antigua and Barbuda, speaking on behalf of the 44-member Alliance of Small Island States, expressed concerns about the uncertain path to COP26 and the ongoing impact of COVID-19. She also emphasized the need for significant progress on climate finance, calling for a new financial goal at COP26 to support climate-vulnerable nations. Sonam P Wangdi of Bhutan, chair of the 46-member group of least developed countries at the UN talks, echoed the importance of meeting climate finance commitments to ensure success. Wealthy nations have faced criticism for failing to meet their pledge to raise $100 billion annually from 2020 to assist developing countries in addressing climate change. Criticism was directed at G7 leaders for not providing a clear plan on how their pledge would be fulfilled at a recent summit, despite Germany and Canada committing new funds. The virtual nature of this month's UN climate talks led to a lack of formal decisions, with technical difficulties hindering some delegates. To accelerate progress, Alok Sharma, the UK official overseeing COP26, intends to convene ministers from over 40 countries in London in late July. Britain's lead climate negotiator, Archie Young, acknowledged the call for more clarity on vaccination and logistical arrangements for COP26. Sharma announced plans to work with partners on offering vaccines to all accredited COP26 attendees, including government officials, green group representatives, and media personnel, with details to be revealed soon. | 4 |
At the beginning of the pandemic, the CDC was slow to respond due to its usual pace, resulting in a delay in testing and surveillance. The agency struggled with outdated methods and infrastructure, leading to a delay in recommending mask-wearing as they were slow to acknowledge the airborne nature of the virus. The emergence of the omicron variant has forced the CDC to make quick decisions with limited evidence, sparking concerns about the impact of their guidelines on the economy and education. Dr Rochelle Walensky, the agency's director, has at times bypassed the usual scientific review process, most recently by shortening the isolation period for infected Americans. President Joe Biden took office vowing to restore the CDC's reputation for independence and rigorous science after the Trump administration's interference. Walensky now faces the challenge of effectively communicating to the public that the science is still developing and their recommendations are based on the best available information. This shift has been difficult for the primarily medical staff of the CDC, with some officials privately expressing demoralization in recent interviews. Concerns have also been raised about Walensky's increasing reliance on a select group of advisers and the perceived political influence from the White House on her decisions. Others from outside the agency praised Walensky for bypassing a lengthy process and taking a practical approach to managing a national emergency, even when the data was uncertain and agency researchers were unsure. Dr. Richard Besser, who led the agency during the H1N1 outbreak in 2009, noted that there are policy considerations during a pandemic that go beyond the CDC's jurisdiction. However, he emphasized the need for more clarity when policy and economics influence agency recommendations. The New York Times reported that over 800,000 Americans are being infected daily, leading to struggles for schools, businesses, and hospitals in nearly two dozen states. At the end of December, Walensky announced that Americans infected with COVID-19 would only need to isolate for five days instead of 10 if they were no longer symptomatic, and a negative test was not necessary to end isolation. Critics were concerned that allowing contagious individuals back into workplaces and schools could lead to the spread of the virus. Despite limited research supporting a shorter isolation period for omicron infections, the recommendation was seen as beneficial for hospitals, businesses, and schools during the omicron surge. Dr. Thomas Frieden, who previously led the agency under President Barack Obama, believed the isolation recommendations were mostly accurate. Walensky and the CDC have not provided explanations for new tensions in the agency's decision-making. Walensky has frequently justified recommendations that were confusing or unpopular by citing rapidly evolving science. She recently testified before the Senate that the agency's new recommendations for shortened isolation periods were based on swift science to address potential staffing shortages. This approach has been a consistent theme for Walensky, as seen in the CDC's recommendation in March that schoolchildren could safely sit 3 feet apart in classrooms instead of 6 feet, despite limited research supporting the change. However, this decision did make it easier for school administrators to consider reopening schools. In May, Walensky used scientific data to inform vaccinated individuals that they could remove their masks and interact freely, which caused concern among experts who believed this decision overlooked the risk of breakthrough infections, particularly from the delta variant. In August, Walensky supported booster shots for all Americans alongside Biden, even before the FDA or her own agency had reviewed the necessary data. The latest incident, providing guidance on isolation, created internal turmoil within the agency due to the way it was decided and communicated. Following an emergency meeting on a Sunday night after Christmas, Walensky gathered the agency's COVID response leaders. She informed them that the agency would reduce the recommended isolation period and eliminate the need for a negative test result to leave isolation. The information was shared during a video call by an official who preferred to remain anonymous. The new guidelines would be announced the next day by Walensky, and it was advised not to discuss it until then. The scientists were caught off guard and rushed to gather supporting data and revise the website content about quarantine and isolation. Normally, federal researchers thoroughly analyze data, draft recommendations, and seek feedback before publishing new guidelines. However, due to the lack of evidence for shortened isolation, particularly related to the delta variant, the accompanying "science brief" was downgraded to a "rationale" document. Some researchers were upset about not being included in the decision-making process and were angered by the agency's claim that the change was based on science. While some thought the new five-day cutoff was arbitrary, they were aware of data indicating that rapid tests might not always detect omicron infections, so they mostly supported Walensky's choice not to mandate a negative test before ending isolation. However, when Walensky announced the new recommendations to staff in a meeting on December 26, they were unprepared. CDC scientists then spent the next week updating numerous guidance documents on the website. Approximately 2,000 health officials, public health lab directors, and researchers from state and city levels participate in a weekly call with CDC officials. During the call on December 27, just before the CDC's statement was released, state and local officials questioned agency scientists about the isolation guidance for the general public. CDC staff members were quiet due to orders not to discuss the new recommendations. Scott Becker of the Association of Public Health Laboratories expressed a desire for more input and advance notice. Supporters of Walensky believed the CDC's change in direction was necessary and that she had made the correct decisions. The CDC is a large organization with researchers used to working slowly, but the pandemic required faster action. According to Frieden, there are individuals within the CDC who do not fully understand the urgency of the situation. He mentioned that during his time in office, he often encountered CDC staff who were sometimes charming but also clueless about the potential impact of their recommendations and statements. Many experts believe that Walensky has unfairly taken the blame for the ongoing challenges of the pandemic. Leading the CDC is always difficult, but even more so during a pandemic, in a politically tense environment, and at a time when the agency's credibility and staff morale are low. Additionally, the fact that agency researchers are still working remotely is seen as a significant obstacle to overcome. "I am worried about the CDC," Besser said. Besser expressed his concern about the public's trust in public health and believes it is unfair to blame Dr. Walensky for this. Despite explaining her decisions at White House briefings, Walensky and other agency scientists recently held their own briefing to address criticism and clarify the CDC's decisions, which some experts view as a positive step towards rebuilding trust in the agency. Besser emphasized the importance of separating public health considerations from political considerations. "And through conducting briefings from CDC, she will have the opportunity to elevate CDC scientists and experts." Some of the current tension at the CDC existed before the pandemic and Walensky's leadership. Conflict between the agency and the National Institutes of Health, represented by Dr. Anthony Fauci, has been ongoing even during previous public health crises, according to some health officials. In a recent incident, Fauci and Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy made statements on television assuring that the CDC would reconsider its recommendations for isolation, despite the agency having no plans to do so, which frustrated senior CDC scientists. Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, suggested that Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra should help resolve the conflict. In a rare appearance, Becerra recently defended Walensky in a CNN interview, stating that she possesses "a medical license and a degree in public health." She lacks a marketing degree according to © 2022 The New York Times Company. | 4 |
A UN summit is discussing a proposal to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, along with a new $100 billion fund to help developing nations. The draft text, obtained by Reuters, emphasizes the need for significant reductions in global emissions and calls for commitments from rich nations to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. The draft also stresses the importance of immediate and enhanced national action and strengthened international cooperation to address climate change. Many major economies have already committed to limiting warming to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, which is considered a critical threshold to avoid dangerous consequences such as increased floods, heatwaves, droughts, and rising sea levels. The parties have agreed to work towards mobilizing $100 billion by 2020 to address the climate change needs of developing countries, with funding coming from a variety of sources. This commitment mirrors the sentiments expressed by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at the Copenhagen meeting. Additionally, there is a goal to provide $10 billion annually in quick start funds for developing nations from 2010-2012, with the amount increasing to reach the $100 billion target by 2020. The text stated that developing countries would accept some level of monitoring for their promised reductions in emissions, which would include reporting back to the UN Climate Change Secretariat every two years. The United States is pushing for international verification to be included in any agreement. Negotiations on the full legal documents for one or more new climate treaties would need to be completed by the end of 2010, according to the draft. The text emphasized that the agreements would not be legally binding. It also mentioned that countries would continue discussions in order to adopt one or more legal instruments as soon as possible, with a deadline of COP 16, the next UN meeting scheduled for November 2010 in Mexico. Numerous developing countries are in favor of having two agreements - an extension of the Kyoto Protocol which currently requires wealthy nations to reduce emissions until 2012, and a new deal outlining actions for poorer nations. On the other hand, developed countries prefer a single treaty. The overall text was referred to as "Copenhagen X," but there was disagreement about what to name it. One environmental activist criticized it, calling it the "Copenhagen catastrophe" due to its perceived weakness. | 4 |
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