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Russia: Opposition Distracted by Virtual Elections, Loses Real Elections · Global Voices
Andrey Tselikov

In August, Global Voices reported on several activists from Russia’s protest movement running for office in local elections. They hoped it would be easier to win these small-scale contests, which took place last weekend. On October 14, amid low turnout and perennial allegations of electoral fraud, Russians participated in thousands [ru] of elections across the country, voting for local mayors, city councilors, and regional legislatures. Five governorships were also in play, for the first time since Vladimir Putin canceled such elections seven years ago.
Dirty tricks and mudslinging
When the dust had settled, the result was that members of the opposition movement did not do well in the few places where they fielded candidates. The United Russia party, and other pro-Putin candidates, took the lion’s share of the votes in most races. The only nominally-opposition parties to enjoy even limited success were the usual suspects: the Communists, LDPR, and Just Russia. It remains unclear how much of United Russia’s success is due to fraud and other illegal actions. Nevertheless, there are widespread reports of dirty tactics.
Evgeniya Chirikova, Leader of the Khimki Forest Defenders, in Khimki, Russia (19 April 2011), By Daniel Beilinson, CC 2.0.
For example, journalist Dmitry Aleshkovsky blogged about the elections in a small district in the republic of Tatarstan in very apocalyptic terms [ru]:
Я видел умирающих от холеры людей в тени развалин разрушенного землетрясением Порт-о-Пренса, я видел тысячи сожженных домов в грузинских селах Южной Осетии […]. И эти выборы вызывают во мне примерно такое же количество ужаса, как и всё описанное выше.
I have seen people dying of cholera in the shade of ruined houses in Port-au-Prince demolished by an earthquake, I have seen thousands of burned houses in Georgian villages in South Ossetia […]. These [Russian regional] elections make me feel about the same amount of horror as what I've described above.
Aleshkovsky went on to describe numerous violations, ranging from extra ballots in voting boxes to the forcible removal of independent observers.
The extent to which pro-government fraud was present, even in the smallest elections and for the most irrelevant of positions, is striking. Sergey Ezhov, a member of Limonov’s Other Russia movement, ran for city council in the tiny town of Sarai. He described [ru] that experience in his blog:
Беспредел началася за несколько дней до даты голосования. Когда, видимо, жулики поняли, что я прохожу в депутаты. Спокойные и тихие Сараи завалили лживыми и прокационными листовками, по месту работы и учебы собирали избирателей и приказывали ни в коем случае не голосовать за Ежова. В это же время полиция начала препятствовать в агитации нам.
The lawlessness began a few days before the vote. When the cardsharps understood that I’m making it to deputy. Quiet and peaceful Sarai was inundated with deceitful and provocative leaflets, voters were rounded up where they work and study, and told to not for Ezhov for any reason. At the same time, the police began to interfere with our campaigning.
Ezhov lost. He had thought that the irrelevancy of the post he sought would make him immune from government pressure. Apparently, he was wrong in that assumption. As it turns out, some of these dirty tactics were used against United Russia members by other United Russia members. Such was the case in Angara, reports [ru] Sergey Schmidt, a local political science professor. A United Russia candidate for mayor seemingly got the short shrift -– his campaign was plagued by scandals, the governor openly supported his opponent, and so on. He ended up winning, however, largely because voters wanted to “support and help the person who is being hounded,” Schmidt argues. It seems that the mudslinging had gone overboard.
Eggs all in a single basket, where they are safest
Screenshot from the opposition's Elections Commission website for the Coordinating Council vote. 19 October 2012.
Most notably, the opposition's headliner also lost. Evgenya Chirikova’s bid for mayor in the Moscow suburb of Khimki was the only race where the movement came together in a meaningful way, marshaling significant donations and campaign volunteers. Yet, Chirikova still lost, with just 20% of the vote. Although there were some irregularities, exit polls [ru] confirmed the official vote tally. Chirikova lost, even though she is one of the better known leaders of the opposition, particularly in Khimki, where she's an active member of the local community.
In short, the opposition fared poorly. This is not in dispute. But there is also no arguing that the protest movement honestly dedicated itself to winning these contests. Chirikova was in fact the only major candidate to represent the new movement. Local elections could have been a great opportunity to try campaigning on a local level and perhaps decentralize the protest movement, devolving it to regional populations. Yet this opportunity seems to have been thrown away. For the past month, the nation's October 14 elections were scarcely on the blogosphere's radar (Chirikova being the exception that proves the rule).
Indeed, for the past month, Russian netizens have been distracted by a different set of elections — the online elections for the Coordinating Council of the opposition, beginning today and ending on October 21. Rather than compete in formal elections, dozens of local activists joined the Coordinating Council race, participating in televised debates, an essay contest, campaigning, and a host of intra-opposition squabbles — all for a seat in an institution that will be completely divorced from any actual power, even after it actually comes to exist.
Perhaps, if the massive get-out-the-vote machine tasked with mobilizing netizen voters had shifted focus to actual voters, it would have succeeded in increasing the meager October 14 turnout (especially considering how difficult it is become a verified voter on cvk2012.org [ru]). As it stands, it’s almost as if the Coordinating Council induced election fatigue. Hopefully it was worth it.

author: Andrey Tselikov


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Slovakia: “For Decent and Safe Life” Rally Stirs Controversy · Global Voices
Tibor Blazko

Back in September, about 3,000 people rallied “for the rights of decent people” in the town of Partizanske. This month, on October 13, a few hundred people gathered for a similar rally – “Together for a Decent and Safe Life” – in Slovakia's capital of Bratislava (video).
The Bratislava protest was co-organized by Oskar Dobrovodský [Twitter; Facebook – sk] from the town of Malacky, a person well-known in Slovakia because of his troubles with the “maladjusted” Roma neighbors (photos and video [sk] – here and here; news reports [en] – here, here, here and here).
Supporters of the Slovak Brotherhood, a far-right extremist group, also attended the rally.
Some 40 human rights activists, including MEP Monika Flašíková–Beňová, attempted to block the march by forming a human chain, but the police eventually got these counter-protesters out of the way and allowed the march to proceed (photos, video [sk] – here).
Ondrej Putra wrote [sk] that he wanted to support Dobrovodský and decided to attend the Oct. 13 rally, partly because his family had been in a situation similar to Dobrovodský's. However, when he arrived, a small group of neo-Nazi men started pointing at him, possibly because they recognized him from this year's gay pride in Bratislava. Later, Putra realized that about half of the attendees of the march appeared to be neo-Nazi – and he decided to leave. He wrote:
[…] Oskar [Dobrovodský], I'm sorry, […] even though I understand your fatal situation, I do not understand why you did not make sure that there wasn't a mob there marching with [their] party flags. […]
Tomáš Bosák commented [sk] on the news reports and the words of MEP Flašíková–Beňová, who labeled all of the protesters “fascists”:
[…] This is a problem of the whole Slovakia, not only of Oscar Dobrovodský in Malacky. Many people suffer in their neighborhoods because of asocials who just [live off the state] and are not willing to lift a finger. And this applies to all asocials, not just Roma, in many cases they are also non-Roma. This is why the protest's title refers to the asocials, not the Roma.
[…] It is the people who are experiencing situations like the one in Malacky who have the right to speak out and protest. Not politicians who are sitting in Brussels, away from their country and its problems. […]
Michal Sedláček addressed [sk] MEP Flašíková–Beňová in a more straightforward manner:
[…] Yes, the shaved skulls abounded. But I also saw a lot of ordinary people […]. They have had enough of [Slovakia's selective justice]. The rich or the asocials apparently do not have to worry.
Yelling at Dobrovodský that he is a disgrace to the decent people is not just funny but stupid. I would like to propose one thing to [MEP Flašíková–Beňová]. I heard that you have a pretty decent income. How about buying Dobrovodský's house from him? How about you settling there? I believe that your system of “love and peace” will surely bring abundant results. […]
Peter Černák disagreed [sk] with one newspaper's comments about Dobrovodský:
[…] The problem is not Oskar Dobrovodský, it's just he who has a problem. The problem is the inaction of the state authorities and the refusal of the state to fulfill its most basic functions. What is the significance of the state that does not know or even does not want to protect its citizens?
CynickaObluda.com mocked [sk] the lack of an adequate reaction from the state:
PM Robert Fico: “The living situation of citizen Dobrovodský requires a radical solution and the use of all the reserves. An extra portion of sympathy and deep understanding will be dispatched to him immediately from the Prime Minister's special fund.” (Image by CynickaObluda.com, used with permission.)
Meanwhile, a follow-up rally “for decent and safe life” is being planned [sk] for November 10 in Bratislava.

source: news-globalvoices

license: Creative Commons - Attribution - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

author: Tibor Blazko


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Angola: War Remnants Become Toys · Global Voices
Sara Moreira

Children playing with an old abandoned tank from the Angolan Civil War in Kuito, Bi Province. Photo by Bruno Abarca copyright Demotix (11/03/2012)
“Soberano” Canhanga on his blog Mesu Ma Jikuka writes a short post [pt] on children playing in old war tanks in Angola.

author: Sara Moreira


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Australia: Surprise Seat on United Nations Security Council · Global Voices
Kevin Rennie

There was lots of jubilation when Australia won a two-year non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council on Friday, October 19, 2102. The long UN Security Council and the short #UNSC of it were both trending on Twitter, down under.
James Alexander seems tickled pink:

@shortino29: Awesome news: Australia has won a seat on the UN Security Council http://ow.ly/eAWfa
Stephen is in the clouds:
@TheAviator1992: The #UNSC seat cost about $1 per Australian. Far cheaper than a cup of coffee. No doubt about it, it was an absolute bargain #auspol
Australia's Foreign Minister Bob Carr receives congratulations
Photo: UN Photo/Evan Schneider
But it isn’t all self-congratulation. There seem to be some sour grapes as well. At Catallaxy Files, which claims to be ‘Australia's leading libertarian and centre-right blog’, Samuel J seems open to a charge of sore-loser:
Unfortunately Australia has won its campaign for a temporary seat on the UN Security Council with 140 votes out of 193 cast (2/3 majority being 129)
He uses sarcasm:
This victory for Australia must be [Opposition Leader] Tony Abbott’s fault!
Followed by a cheeky, machiavellian suggestion:
One option the Coalition could consider – ask Kevin Rudd if he would like to be considered for appointment as Australian Ambassador to the United Nations under a Coalition Government. Since the temporary position commences on 1 January 2013, Mr Rudd would want to be in a position to take up such an appointment prior to that day. As the Constitution makes it illegal for a MP to accept a Commonwealth salary, he would need to resign from Parliament.
Such a resignation would cause a by-election and a possible change of government. Kevin Rudd initiated the UN bid before being toppled as Prime Minister by Julia Gillard. Gillard leads a minority government with razor-thin support.
But it gets more bizarre. Andrew Puhanic, blogging at the Globalist Report shares his conspiracy theories:
GLOBALIST puppet, carbon tax lover and communist Julia Gillard has once again set Australia on the path to world government.
If you enjoy this kind of negativity, then try reading the Comments section on Tory Maguire’s post at the Punch: We won! So what should we do with the prize? She is not the only one caught napping, as few expected this victory:
The debate this morning is a bit hilarious as everyone scrambles to re-frame their arguments having assumed we were going to be embarrassed by the Fins.
One complaint that is rebutted by many on Twitter concerns the alleged waste of money. ManO'Steel(town) ponders Opposition Leader Tony Abbott's reaction to the announcement:
@berkeleyboy: Tony Abbott on Thursday: “failure to win UN Security Council seat would be a disaster…”, & Friday? “it cost too much…” #auspol #WhiteAnt
Kiera Gorden is also aiming at Tony Abbott:
@KieraGorden: What sort of terrible person denounces their own nation getting a coveted, prestigious seat at the #UNSC. Oh yeah, Tony Abbott!
Dav is doubtless thinking about Iraq and Afghanistan:
@dav9999: Having a say about wars our soldiers fight in is what's good about Australia on the UN Security Council #auspol #unsc #UNSecurityCouncil
Simon Bradshaw echoes Oxfam's similar concerns:
@simoncbradshaw: UN Security Council win a chance for Australia to better protect people affected by war – Oxfam https://www.oxfam.org.au/media/2012/10/un-security-council-win-a-chance-for-australia-to-better-protect-people-affected-by-war-oxfam/ … via @Oxfamaustralia
Author of My Israel Question and The Blogging Revolution, Antony Loewenstein, lists what he sees as Australian demerits in the international arena:
@antloewenstein: #Palestine, #Iraq, #Afghanistan, #asylumseekers. Oh yes, #Australia SO deserves UN seat @bobjcarr @JuliaGillard http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-10-19/australia-wins-seat-on-un-security-council/4321946 …
Joe Hildebrand, Daily Telegraph journalist and blogger, seems to be one of those who see politics as another sport:
@Joe_Hildebrand: So glad Australia won the UN Security Council spot. This totally makes up for the World Cup.
Australia's unsuccessful bid to host the World Cup 2022 cost $A 45 million compared with the $A 24 million on the UN campaign.
Many onliners see cause for optimism. Laura R is upbeat at 3things blog:
It’s an exciting time, not only for the government, but for any Australian citizen who’s ever wished we were that little bit more connected to the international arena and the decisions that get made within it. So now, here’s our chance.
As politicians never miss a photo opportunity in these days of social media, the Prime Minister Julia Gillard has used twitter to post a photo of herself thanking staff from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade:
Julia Gillard thanks DFAT staff
Photo: @JuliaGillard twitter account
@JuliaGillard
The PM thanking DFAT personnel this morning after Australia secured a UNSC seat for 2013/2014. TeamJG pic.twitter.com/HO5CE7m2
Finally, for a cartoon reaction please see: You know who else won a seat on the UN Security Council …
…everyone who thought they were voting for Austria will realise what happened and then there may be an international incident.
The two-year term starts in January 2013.

author: Kevin Rennie


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Bangladesh: Low Dependency on Agricultural Products Prompts Food Security Fears · Global Voices
পান্থ রহমান রেজা (Pantha)

Bangladesh is predominantly an agricultural country. A large number of population are dependent on agriculture. Currently the net contribution to GDP in this sector is 19.1%.
Recent studies reveal [bn] a decreasing trend on the dependency on agriculture and agricultural products in the country. The employment in agriculture sector is also decreasing. The last four decades saw a tremendous rise in the industry and service sectors, which is the main cause.
Currently almost 48% of population are dependent on agriculture. Only five years ago it was 60%. The employment in agriculture sector has decreased by 20%. The number of landless people have risen to an alarming 9%, which interprets to about 15 million people.
Bangladesh is known to be an agricultural country, however the dependency on agriculture is decreasing day by day. Image from Wikipedia by Balaram Mahalder. CC: BY-NC
In recent years the price of agricultural products has risen. Manure, Water for irrigation, electricity and diesel all have become expensive and as a result the cost of produces has increased. But the farmers are not getting enough profit from the crops as the price of produces are not rising proportionately. They are sometimes making loss.
Blogger Russel [bn] at Amar Blog wonders how these farmers are still in the agricultural business:
গত ১ মাসের বাজার দর বিবেচনা করলে দেখা যাচ্ছে গত এক মাসে বাজারে গরুর মাংসের গড় মূল্য ছিলো ২৭০ টাকা, সয়াবিন তেলের গড় মূল্য ছিলো ১৩০ টাকা থেকে ১৪০ টাকা, যে দেশে কৃষককে এক কেজি গরুর মাংস কিনতে আধা মন ধান বেচতে হয় সে দেশের মানুষ যে এখনও কৃষি কাজ করে এটাই আশ্চর্যজনক।
যে দেশে এক কেজি তেল কিনতে গোলা থেকে ৭ কেজি ধান দিতে হয় কৃষককে সে দেশে কৃষকেরা এখনও ধান উৎপাদনের মাহাত্ম্য দেখাচ্ছেন এটাই আশ্চর্যজনক।
If we compare the market rates of the past one month, the average price of a kilogram of beef was BD Taka 270 ($3.4), A liter Soybean oil BDT 140 ($1.75). In a country where a farmer has to sell half maund (20 kilograms) of paddy to buy a kilogram of beef, it is surprising that farmers are still able to survive.
Food insecurity will further worsen the lives of the population who lives under $1 a day. Image by Firoz Ahmed. Copyright Demotix (4/8/2012).
The question of food security arises because of the decrease in agricultural lands and the dependency on agriculture. Because of low purchasing power many people cannot buy all the food they need. Many are concerned that if these farmers cease to contribute in this sector and switch to other jobs then what is going to happen.
Economic Intelligence Unit, an influencial magazine from UK, published an index on Food security, where Bangladesh stands at the 81st position with a score of 34.6 out of 100. You can have an idea from this about the status of food security in Bangladesh.
The 2009 report by World Food Program (WFP) and Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) says that almost 35 million people in this country have a deficit of 1805 calories per day because of food shoratage and low food intake. According to Bangladesh Development Research Institute almost 50% of population face food shortage at one time of year, and 7% of population cannot secure 3 meals a day. Only a quarter of the population get enough nutrition all the year round.
On the other hand a lot of food are being wasted in the country for lack of proper and timely storage and poor marketing. Blogger Ek Theke Aat (1 to 8) [bn] at Somewhereinblog.net comments:
কৃষিতে আধুনিক কলাকৌশল ও সুষ্ঠু কৃষি বিপণন ব্যবস্থা, সংরক্ষণ ও পরিবহনের অভাবে প্রতিবছর প্রায় ২৫-৩০ ভাগ কৃষিপণ্য অপচয় হচ্ছে। আধুনিক কৃষি ব্যবস্থাপনার অভাবে প্রতিবছর যে পরিমাণ কৃষিপণ্য অপচয় হচ্ছে তার আনুমানিক বাজার মূল্য অন্তত ৪ হাজার কোটি টাকা।
Almost 25-30% agricultural produces are being wasted because of lack of modern production method, poor marketing, lack of storage and poor transport management. The loss due to lack of modern agricultural management is almost 40 Billion Taka ($500 million).
To improve food security more investment in agriculture sector is needed. More and more agriculture based industries are required for effective use of agricultural produces. The government has taken steps to disburse loans for agriculture based industries and storage facilities. According to Bangladesh Bank in 2011-12 financial year there has been an increase of loans of 30 billion Taka ($370 million) which is about a 24% increase from the previous year.

author: পান্থ রহমান রেজা (Pantha)


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Bangladesh: The Perils of The YouTube Ban · Global Voices
Rezwan

The Bangladesh government banned YouTube and its many IPs were also banned which are also used by other Google Services. Many from Bangladesh are unable to access a number of Google services for more than a month as a consequence. Sajib vents his frustrations.

author: Rezwan


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Burundi: Celebrating The First Democratically Elected President  · Global Voices
Lova Rakotomalala

Jean Marie Ngendahayo writes about [fr] the relatively unknown story of Melchior Ndadaye, the first democratically elected president of Burundi after winning the 1993 election. Ngendahayo states that what stood out with Ndadaye was his willingness to reach out to all Burundians; in fact he chose an opponent, Mrs. Sylvie Kinigi as his prime minister but he was killed in a coup attempt before he could really reunite the ethnically-divided nation.

author: Lova Rakotomalala


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Cape Verde: A Short Documentary · Global Voices
Sara Moreira

Short documentary “Cabo Verde” by Felix de Rosen, with footage from Sao Vicente, Praia, and Santo Antao. Music by Cordas do Sol


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Caribbean: Blog Action Day 2012 · Global Voices
Matthew Hunte

Since its founding in 2007, Blog Action Day has united bloggers from all over the world by having them devote space to a specific topic or theme. Past themes have included water, the environment, poverty and climate change. The theme for Blog Action Day 2012, which was observed on October 15th, was “The Power of We”. According to the Blog Action Day website:
2378 blogs from 111 countries, using 43 different languages, registered to take part in Blog Action Day, October 2012. We also know that an additional 500 blogs took part in Blog Action Day without registering.
Several Caribbean bloggers participated in Blog Action Day 2012 and their contributions took a variety of forms, from reports on voluntary work to poetry.
The Petchary expounded on the theme by exploring the ways in which blogging can unite a community:
The essence of blogging is, or should be, creating a community in which to share ideas, agree, disagree. It is not supposed to be an ego-boosting, self-aggrandizing exercise, as a Guardian blogger suggests in the article below. It should be about ‘we.’ But which ‘we’ are we talking about? How large is the collective ‘we’ – how vague, how amorphous is it? Can we reach out and embrace the ‘we’ and if not, why not?
She also addressed the way the way the term “we” is used in political discourse:
Our local politicians seem to like the concept of ‘we’ – when it suits them. When fingers are pointed at them to seize the initiative, to lead, to deal with a specific problem, the cry often goes up, ‘Well, we are all in this together… We can fight crime together… We can generate jobs together…’ etc, etc. The Jamaican citizen, staggering under the weight of poverty, growing inequality, joblessness and all the other social ills, hardly feels empowered, one suspects. He/she feels like the ‘us’ in ‘them and us.’  And if he/she does get up and assert him/herself, with fellow citizens, as the collective ‘we,’  the powers that be may not support you whole-heartedly.
The Petchary went on to list several organizations in Jamaica which she felt encouraged unity. Alas, the two main political parties weren't included on this list:
Please, please… let us not follow the example of our two political parties, whom our esteemed Gleaner newspaper still describes as the two ‘gangs.’ They bicker at each other and among themselves. They sigh and heckle and shout and grandstand and show every evidence of divisiveness in their daily lives and their work in Parliament (although there is a general feeling that this combativeness disappears when they are at cocktail functions and social events). Instead of cheering them on in their spiteful forays against each other; instead of calling radio talk shows to defend the party we support; instead of accepting their favors, waving flags and abusing our neighbors in their name – let us be the real Jamaican ‘we.’ Our oft-quoted National Motto is‘Out of Many One People.’
Let us be that ‘One People.’ For Jamaica, ‘we’ means unity.
Geoffrey Philip used the occasion to draw attention to an ongoing campaign to exonerate Marcus Garvey:
Unfortunately, Marcus Garvey was wrongfully arrested and convicted on trumped charges of mail fraud and Africans at home and abroad have never realized the full benefits of his answers. Since then, Garvey’s work has been deliberately distorted and his legacy has been all but erased from our collective memory.
It’s for this reason why I have joined with the Marcus Garvey Celebrations Committee (South Florida) Rootz Foundation, and the Institute for Caribbean Studies, to petition to President Barack Obama for the exoneration the Right Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey, the father of Pan-Africanism.
For although Marcus Garvey does not need to be exonerated in our eyes, it will take political pressure to bring about change.
Kris Ramperad used the occasion to encourage others to blog:
If you have not yet done a blog now's the time to do to feel the power of communication and outreach now available to all those who have access to a computer/phone or social media tool.
Blogging gives you direct access to a world audience no matter how small a place you may come from.
She compared the impact a blogger could have today to that of one of the Caribbean's most prominent broadcasters:
From Trinidad and Tobago, one of the most powerful voices in mainstream media, Trevor McDonald,  has often told of how he came from a small backwater island in the Caribbean and became the toast of the media world through moving to London to to work for the BBC and then for ITN. He has had a significant impact on perceptions of the role and place and power and influence of media in shaping society. Now, through blogging, that power is in the hands of social media users everywhere….
In the Bahamas, Jeremy Delancy volunteered at a shoe drive for needy children, while Francis Rousseau linked to a video of the Jamaica mento band The Jolly Boys in support of the “2012 Age Demands Action“initiative:
The Wordy Phoenix from Grenada offered a poem exploring the power of “we”.
Because the power of ‘we’ is that ‘we’ always find ‘we’, whether ‘we’ want them to our not.
‘We’ are linked.
‘We’ are blood,
‘We’ are power
Because nobody takes ‘we’ from ‘we’ permanently.
Unless ‘we’ let them..

author: Matthew Hunte


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East Timor: Documenting Traditional Music · Global Voices
Sara Moreira

The Timorese have a musical culture which is unique, but at present deeply hidden, the world is interested in it, and it deserves to be noticed and survive.
The Unofficial East Timor blog publishes an interview with Ros Dunlop, the author of a book titled “Sounds of the Soul: The Traditional Music of East Timor”.


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Guinea-Bissau: Six Killed in Attack to Military Base · Global Voices
Sara Moreira

An attack to a military base [pt] in Guinea-Bissau on the night of October 20, 2012, took the lives of at least six people. BBC journalist Zenaida Machado (@zenaidamz) informs on Twitter that the alleged mastermind of the attack is Captain N’Tchama, a member of the army elite unit who “was also behind March 2009 attack that killed President Nino Vieira and Army Chief of Staff Tagmé Na Waie”.


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Beijing’s Intervention on Radio License in Hong Kong Leaked · Global Voices
Oiwan Lam

A recently established commercial radio station, Digital Broadcasting Corporation Hong Kong Limited (DBC) [zh], has ceased to operate since October 10, 2012 because of internal disagreement among major shareholders. However, its founder Albert Cheng, a famous radio host, revealed that the top management and major shareholders have been pressured by the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong to wind up the company and return the license back to the Hong Kong government.
To stop Albert Cheng and others top management staff from exposing the details of internal discussion, one of the shareholders Wong Cho Bau, a property developer whose major business is in mainland China, applied for an injunction court order on September 26, 2012. In response to this legal harassment, supporters of Albert Cheng and DBC have occupied the square outside the Hong Kong Government office since October 19 and demanded that the government conduct an open investigation [zh] of the issue and pressure the major shareholders to fulfill the capital investment agreement according to terms of reference that come with the radio license. The assembly is planned last for at least seven days.
The latest development is the leakage last night October 20, 2012 of an audio tape that reveals Beijing's direct intervention in the radio station's operation:
Below is a partial transcription of the tape:
2011年5月
黃楚標：大班，你頭先話節目，大聲台見到有個李慧玲，佢主要鬧政府，仲要鬧中央政府，你係咪想我地做到咁樣…（李國寶：係呀，就是鬧 Donald ）咁佢來到我地台，你主要想佢做咩？政策係咩先？
鄭經翰：先講個政策先，做電台，最緊要有公信力，包括我在內，唔可以做政府喉舌…做電台最緊要有公信力，先有人聽。有人聽先有錢賺。最緊要係無政治立場，最緊要是其是，非其非。政府需要監察，唔監察點得呢？我就唔擔心，最緊要唔犯規，無針對性，但我地又唔好做喉舌。如果唔係電台無公信力，就無人聽。
黃楚標：李慧玲…是好惹火，你同我講過後，我地同彭（清華），中聯辦好反感，David（李國寶），你知嗎？（李國寶：知，係好唔想見到佢。），唔想我地要佢。但我亦同佢講此消彼長。但萬一佢來到（DBC），大班控制唔到呢？賺錢，我地當然同意，但我地唔想參與政治，或者捲入漩渦。我地應該明確清晰。
鄭經翰：做傳媒，第一要有獨立性…第二，我無可以話你聽我控制佢，如果我控制佢，係好大鑊，我無可能控制李慧玲，呢樣一定唔可以做。
我解釋畀你聽，有個宗旨，股東係分開。一頂帽，我係股東，另一頂帽我管內容。我係編輯，我都有自主…立場，我地不能預設，我同所有主持人都講，我地一定要根據事實，你地可以話有唔同立場…但我地一定唔可以有政治交易，我地唔可以話Donald話過，咁可唔以過…或者中聯辦我地話，專鬧民主派，就專鬧民主派，咁樣係唔得。一定有公信力。
黃楚標：我地唔想話為了個電台，引起不必要的…
鄭經翰：當你做傳媒，一定有是非…但有是非，你地咪話，找大班囉，把你地壓力卸開去，卸落我到。亦不需要話照住我，我唔使你照。
李國寶：我地照到你。
黃楚標：我地有意見表達，因為李慧玲係好惹火…
李國寶：就是河水不犯井水，我地無謂講咁多，你讚佢又好，彈又好…我地剩係睇返香港。
鄭：要講，一定要講，今日個個都講艾未未，你唔講唔得，咁講完咪算囉。
The public assembly outside the government building which is planned to last for at least 7 days. Photo from DBC Facebook Fan's page
May 2011
Wong Cho Bau: Albert, you just said the Loud Voice Channel will have Lee Wai Ling, her role is to criticize the government, including the Central government, do you really want to lead us there…
David Li [another major shareholder]: Yes, she will criticize Donald [the former Hong Kong mayor]
Wong Cho Bau: Do you want her here? What is our policy?
Albert Cheng: Let's talk about our policy first. We need credibility to be a radio station. We can't turn into government mouthpiece… we need credibility to attract an audience and then make money. We can't have a political stand and it is important that we stick to what is right and what is wrong. The government has to be monitored, why shouldn't we do that? The most important thing is not crossing the line and making personal attacks. If we become a mouthpiece, we lose our credibility and no one will listen to us.
Wong Cho Bau: Lee Wai Ling… many are angry at her. After you told me, I talked to Peng (Qinghua) [the current director of  the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong], the Liaison Office is very pissed. David, do you know that?
David Li: Yes, they don't want to see her.
Wong Cho Bau: They don't want us to hire her. I tried to explain that there are pros and cons. But what if Albert cannot keep her under control? Of course I want to make money, but I don't want to get involved in politics. We have to make this clear.
Albert Cheng: The first criteria of running media is to keep it independent… Secondly, it is impossible for me to control her. This would be disastrous. I ought not do that.
Let me explain. The principle is that shareholders and management should be separated. There are two hats, one is shareholder, one is content manager. I am in both positions. As editor, I have to uphold the principle of autonomy. I tell all the hosts that we have to base our comments on fact and they can have their own political stands. Moreover, we cannot have political deals. We can't echo with Donald's talk… or we can't criticize the democrats according to the Liaison Office's instruction. We can't do that, we need credibility.
Wong Cho Bau: This radio station will result in unexpected consequence…
Albert Cheng: As a media organization, we will face a lot of pressure. Just leave it to me. You don't need to protect me, I don't need your protection.
David Li: We can protect you.
Wong Cho Bau: We just want to raise our opinion that Lee Wai Ling will stir up a lot of anger…
David Li: Just make sure that we don't intervene into mainland Chinese politics. Whether she is good or bad… let's focus on Hong Kong.
Albert Cheng: We have to talk about China… now everyone is talking about Ai Weiwei, you can't be silent on that. After all we are just talking.
2012年2月錄音
黃楚標：你亦知道點解我唔點賣得畀你，我係唔肯……我不如買多架飛機。
鄭經翰：如果我找到買家，佢又合資格，你地無得拒絕。
（不詳）：但我地同意（買家）先得。
黃楚標：我地做呢，就唔會好似大班咁鬧政府。
DBC supporters talking on stage outside the HK Government Office on October 20, 2012. Photo from DBC's Facebook Fan's page
February 2012
Wong Cho Bau: You know why I can't sell it to you. I don't want to… I prefer to buy another plane.
Albert Cheng: What if I can find another buyer who is qualified. You can't reject that, right?
(Unknown voice): We have to review the buyer first.
Wong Cho Bau: If we take over, we won't criticize the government like Albert did.
The leaked tape proves that the top management of the radio, represented by Albert Cheng, has been under pressure from major shareholders who keep constant communication with the Beijing government's representative in Hong Kong. The shareholders eventually decided to stop injecting capital into the company according to plan, at the same time, refused to sell their shares to Albert Cheng, forcing the radio station to cease operation.
One of the program hosts at DBC, Lau Nan Kwong, has decided to hunger strike for seven days outside the government office building after he listened to the tape. Another communication rights activist Tsang Kin Shing, who has been challenging the government's radio and television broadcast license system, has also joined the hunger strike action.

author: Oiwan Lam


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India: The Question Of Vertical Farming  · Global Voices
Rezwan

Maddy writes about the recent developments of vertical farming considering the demand for more agricultural lands in India and elsewhere.


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Kazakhstan: The Accidental Nationalist · Global Voices
Alexander Sodiqov

To Son Pascal, I say that if you really believe that Kazakhs should stop using Russian language in favor of Kazakh, if you really feel that you, a foreigner, can tell Kazakhs how to feel pride in their background, you’re playing with fire. And it’s not your fire to play with.
Matthew Kupfer on Registan.net argues that the Italian singer who has made his name in Kazakhstan by encouraging Kazakhs to speak their mother tongue “is wading into a debate that really is none of his business”.

author: Alexander Sodiqov


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Myanmar: Newspapers Now Printed in Color · Global Voices
Chan Myae Khine

Government-sponsored newspapers in Myanmar are now printed in color, this was announced [my] by the Deputy Minister of Ministry of Information on his Facebook. There are only three major daily papers in Myanmar, all published in monochrome version except on special occasions like Independence Day. Weekly publications by other local media groups are called “journals”.

author: Chan Myae Khine


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Saudi Arabia: “Unescorted Women are not Allowed” .. in a Restaurant  · Global Voices
Amira Al Hussaini

On Twitter, Moad Aldabbagh shares this photograph of a sign on a restaurant in Saudi Arabia. It reads: “Kindly note that unescorted ladies are not allowed.”
Unescorted ladies are not allowed, reads a restaurant sign in Saudi Arabia. Photo shared on Twitter by @moadaldabbagh
He tweets:
@moadaldabbagh: Meanwhile in 21st century saudi Arabia…

author: Amira Al Hussaini


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Sri Lanka: Bumper Harvest Of Fish   · Global Voices
Rezwan

Malaka Rodrigo reports that many fish species have aggregated to the Sri Lankan East coast giving a bumper harvest to the fishermen. Experts say that this might have happened due to changing patterns of Oceanic Currents and climate change.


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Turkey: Silent Treatment of Hunger Strike met with Anger by Kurds · Global Voices
Ruwayda Mustafah

Hundreds of Kurdish political prisoners in Turkey have entered an indefinite hunger strike. The non-violent protest has gone unnoticed by international media agencies and human rights organisations. One activist, who has been vocal about this protest, says the hunger strike demands the following:
@hevallo: Releasing Kurdish leader of Kurdish Worker's Party (PKK) rebels to negotiate a peace settlement
@hevallo: Freedom to use Kurdish language in public sphere
@hevallo: Political settlement for the Kurdish question in Turkey
Today marks the 40th day of their hunger strike, and since their start there has been very little information about the prisoners on hunger strike, and their demands in media outlets. Al Jazeera's The Stream has showed some interest to highlight the hunger strike, while other media agencies that respond to social networking demands have remained silent.
Members of Committee of International Relation of Swedish Left Party have joined the indefinite hunger strike, which was started on 12 September by Kurdish political prisoners held in Turkey.
The Global Times reports that mainstream Turkish outlets have failed to report on this hunger strike because the journalists are too afraid of being charged by the Turkish state.
What is more humiliating is the ignorance of Turkish media. None of the mainstream press installations picked up the story. One might claim that most of Turkish public is not even aware of the hunger strike. The government threatens and then charges the journalists with terrorism if they report human rights issues, especially about the Kurdish minority.
This has angered Kurds on social media. Nechirvan says “No one cares about Kurds” and Saya asks “Where are the activists?” to fill in the vacuum which media agencies have created on the hunger strike by political prisoners.
Raphael Thelen recently wrote an article about the Hunger strike on Lebanon News saying:
Kurds are a forgotten people. Called the largest nation without a state, they have been fighting for social, cultural and, at times, national rights for decades. But most of the time, nobody cared. Recently the Kurdish Worker’s Party’s (PKK) renewed war against the Turkish government has made headlines. What bleeds, as journalists say, leads.
Despite the lack of reporting from journalists and mainstream news sites, ordinary Kurds have used Twitter, Facebook and other social networking sites to raise awareness about this hunger strike, which many perceive as fundamental towards the future of Kurdish leaders of PKK rebels.

author: Ruwayda Mustafah


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Will ‘National Conversation’ Work in Singapore? · Global Voices
Kirsten Han

In an effort to include ordinary Singaporeans in the planning of the nation's future, the government has launched a “national conversation” that will last for about a year to gather people's views.
Led by the Our Singapore committee, the national conversation will take place online as well as in various dialogues and meetings. Our Singapore Conversation has both a website and a Facebook page, and urges people to share their views on Twitter using the #oursgconv hashtag.
The exercise has been met with positivity from some Singaporeans. Petunia Lee writes about her experience of attending a dialogue session:
From the Facebook page of Our SG Conversation
I must say that my experience of the SG Conversation opened my eyes to other Singaporeans. For one, I didn't realize that the elderly in Singapore felt such a sense of dispossession and rejection until one elderly gentleman from my group said his piece. For another, I had had the wrong assumption that harmonious race relations are so much a part of us that we don't need to work at it. It was a Malay lady doctor who in her impassioned speech convinced me that race relations can cause today, as much rawness as in the 1960s.
So yes… I think if, as explained by Mr Tan, the aim of the SG Conversation is to teach each of us some truths about our own country, then it did achieve that aim with me.
However, many others are wary of the exercise, seeing it as nothing more than a public relations endeavour. Molly Meek believes that the whole national conversation is simply a ploy to change the ruling party's image:
The PAP’s [ruling party] strategy is intelligent—one even wonders if they have consulted professionals on the matter before proceeding with their efforts—and one cannot helped but be impressed by their measurable success. The strategy employed  is perhaps fairly simple—target a few citizens, including prominent ones and lesser-known ones, that are moderately against the PAP, give them a different impression, and let them spread the news that the PAP really is not what its detractors have made it out to be. In fact, these do not even need to say anything—a mere talk with the PAP that leaves them with nothing to criticize will be effective enough for others who can still be convinced to support the PAP.
An editorial at publichouse.sg points out that the conversation may not lead to real change:
Even if it is assumed that the ministers leading the current initiative are of a keenly liberal bent, the older guards in the Cabinet remain likely to have a veto over the final product.  It is instructive that a majority of the more liberal suggestions made by the Remaking Singapore Committee – such as for the government to define the out-of-bounds markers for political debate, creating an Economic Relief Scheme for the structurally unemployed and subsidising the MediShield premiums of low-income groups – went unheeded.
Howard Lee, writing for The Online Citizen, commented on the perceived partisan bias in the conversation:
‘Join the Singapore Conversation’ website
We simply do not want to see a Conversation that is dominated by people who might be sympathetic of the ruling party's position on national issues, and are hence more likely to be part of the ancient echo chamber. How would we look forward, if so?
In other words, Wong and others like him need to realise that the ball is in the PAP's court to prove that they can be non-partisan, rather than lambast those who are raising the red flag on partisanship as ‘politicised’. Proof is in actions, not words.
We want diverse voices, even oppositional ones that sit at the far ends of the fence of logic and possibility, to get to the bottom of matters and stimulate a hearty, if not heart-felt, discussion, rather than another consensus building show-and-tell. And Singaporeans have the right to expect the National Conversations to be like that.
While the conversation continues in dialogue sessions and on Facebook, the Twitter hashtag #oursgconv appears to have been hijacked by anti-opposition spam:
@SGSilentMaj : Freedom of expression is bad for #Singapore #sgpolitics #sgelections  http://bit.ly/REUBsd http://bit.ly/TJjDZX
@SGLaoBaiXing : WP taking credit for PAP's work #sgpolitics #sgelections http://bit.ly/TcBoTM  http://bit.ly/R4RV9G
@theonlinesg : WP have no vision #sgpolitics #sgelections #oursgconv http://bit.ly/T1qhqo http://bit.ly/RWyvlo

author: Kirsten Han


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A Maligned Law to Protect the Philippines from Cybercrime · Global Voices
Mong Palatino

This post is part of our International Relations & Security coverage.
Protest against the Cybercrime Law. Photo shared by Tudla Productions on Facebook
The majority of Filipino internet users and media groups opposed the passage of the Philippine Cybercrime Law because of provisions that potentially curtail media freedom and other civil liberties. But prior to the insertion of online libel and other last minute amendments, the bill was actually quietly supported by many people.
In fact, it remains popular among business groups, computer security experts, and advocates of safe cyberspace, even after the Supreme Court issued an order to suspend its implementation for the next 120 days.
The Department of Justice – the main agency in charge of implementing the law – insists that the measure is necessary to stop global cybercrimes:
Precisely the purpose of the law is to protect our citizens from unscrupulous and abusive actions of misfits and the wicked in society. We see massive cyber fraud, state-sponsored terrorism, telecommunications hacking, credit card scams and consumer schemes that the State is mandated to investigate and prosecute. There is no doubt that cybercrime is a global crime that requires immediate and adequate response.
According to the agency, the hacking of government websites is another reason to use the law against “transnational organized crimes and criminal syndicates”:
The number of incidents and the ease of hacking government websites only show the vulnerability of our country's ICT framework and prove the necessity of a cybercrime law to protect us against criminal syndicates and transnational organized crime.
But it also emphasized that the agency opposed the inclusion of online libel in the original bill:
The IT industry knows that since 2007 when the Department of Justice (DOJ) first crafted the consolidated cybercrime bill, internet libel was never a part of any versions. The main purpose of the legislation was to cover acts committed with new technologies that were not included or could not have been anticipated by the Revised Penal Code or special penal laws. The DOJ will protect and defend the freedom of expression and freedom of speech in whatever form by going after transnational organized crimes and criminal syndicates who abuse the openness of social media.
Letter from a young woman asking the government to use the Cybercrime Law to stop the online circulation of a sex video
Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda echoed the arguments of the DOJ:
The Cybercrime Prevention Act was enacted by Congress to address legitimate concerns about criminal behavior on the Internet and the effects of abusive behavior
We would therefore like to point out that no government entity has moved to deprive anyone of access to the Internet or to suppress civil liberties as exercised online. In fact what has taken place is that hackers who claim to be aligned with critics of the Cybercrime Act are the ones who have engaged in online vandalism, depriving the broader public of access to much needed government information and services online.
The Business Processing Association of the Philippines, the umbrella organization of business process outsourcing companies in the country, identifies the advantages of having a Cybercrime Law:
The Cybercrime Prevention Act will help sustain and enhance investor confidence and strengthen our position as one of the world’s top locations for high-value IT-BPO services.
The Cybercrime Prevention Act is meant to provide the resources and legal framework to identify, prevent, and impose punishment for Internet-based crimes and safeguard users’ online information from unauthorized data collectors. Because IT-BPO firms utilize the Internet and computer technology as the principal channel for communication processes, the industry will benefit from provisions covering system and data protection, device security, and penalties for computer-related offenses.
Outsourcing is touted as a sunshine industry in the Philippines. It employs more than half a million young workers and contributes about $13 billion to the local economy.
Responsible Internet Users for Social Empowerment (Cyber RISE) appeals for the implementation of the law [fil]:
It is saddening that the law intended to curb evil acts in social networking today is the focus of attacks by groups which claim that human rights are going to be violated.
Give a chance by implementing the law to realize its positive intent. We have long clamored for a strong law to apprehend ‘cybercriminals’.
Even Senator Teofisto Guingona III, the only senator who voted against the law, recognizes the necessity of having a Cybercrime Law:
A Cybercrime Prevention Act is necessary, but must not be oppressive.
Republic Act 10175 is oppressive and dangerous. It demonizes the computer user and extends its tentacles to a computer user’s freedom of expression and speech. In an age when decriminalization of libel is the trend, this law makes a fatal step back, toward the vault of archaic policies that cannot be made to apply to the modern man operating in a modern world.
Let me just point out the fact that we need a Cybercrime Prevention Act. Except for certain problematic provisions, this law is necessary.
This post and its translations to Spanish, Arabic and French were commissioned by the International Security Network (ISN) as part of a partnership to seek out citizen voices on international relations and security issues worldwide. This post was first published on the ISN blog, see similar stories here.

author: Mong Palatino


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After Japan Earthquake, a New Local Newspaper by Citizens · Global Voices
Keiko Tanaka

The devastating effects of the ‘Great East Japan Earthquake’ (known internationally as the Japan 2011 earthquake) on Otsuchi, a small town in Iwate prefecture, are little known. This is partly because their local newspaper closed in 2011 due to damage inflicted by the earthquake, tsunami and fire. Now an online fundraising campaign [ja] has succeeded in gathering 2,496,000 Yen (US$31,000 dollars) to help build a new kind of newspaper.
Dubbed Otsuchi Mirai Shimbun (Otsuchi Future Newspaper), the project reaches out to Otsuchi citizens to teach them skills in reporting, and university students from all over Japan can sign up for internships to help make the newspaper. This unique combination of a hyper-local, hybrid newspaper uses both online and offline communication.
The project was launched in August by the Japan Center of Education for Journalist and non-profit organization, Volunteer Info, in cooperation with local groups.
Location of Ōtsuchi. Image from Wikipedia by Maximilian Dörrbecker (CC BY-SA 3.0).
The first issue of Otsuchi Future Newspaper was printed in 250 copies and distributed to local citizens by bike. The content is also available online.
The newspaper also offers onsite training experience for both students and citizen reporters, where practice and theory meet – or maybe not. One student reporter  looked back critically on a training workshop [ja], saying:
私たちも「ニュースとは何か？」というものを勉強している身であるのですが、それを町民の方に理解して頂けるように説明するということは、とても難しいことです。
As for students like us who study “what is news”, I found it was more difficult to explain what it is to people in town.
Another student intern saw reactions to stories on Facebook [ja] as a potential motivator for citizen reporters:
町民レポーターになってくださった方が書かれた大槌中学校吹奏楽部・定期演奏会の記事は、フェイスブックページに投稿した日だけで663人もの方が見てくださいました！シェアした方々も何人かおられました。この結果を町民レポーターの方にiPhoneで見せると「もっと書く気になるね！」と積極的なお言葉をいただきました。紙の記事とは異なり、リアルタイムで読者の数や反応がわかるインターネット記事は、書き手にとってやる気の源泉ともなるようです。
663 people have seen the post on Facebook written by a citizen reporter. Many shared the story about a concert by Otsuchi Junior High School brass band club. “I feel like writing more articles!” said one citizen reporter, when I showed him the response on Facebook with my iPhone. Unlike paper-based media, the interactivity made possible by online articles seems to be a good motivation for reporters, where they can witness the amount of traffic and responses in real time.
Internship student teaches photography to citizens in Otsuchi. Image used with permission.
Other students organized a workshop [ja] on using digital cameras and mobile phones to record news:
このワークショップを行ったのは、お茶っこに参加した時に「言いたい事、伝えたいことはたくさんあるし、いつもお茶っこしてる皆でだったら町民レポーターをいくらでもやるけどね。カメラも撮れないし、パソコンも使えねえから無理だ」と言われたのがきっかけでした。ワークショップが終わった後、この小鎚第２０仮設のお茶っこグループの方々が町民レポーターを引き受けてくださる事になりました！！ありがとうございます。
When I held [the workshop] in the tea salon, one citizen said to me, “I always have something to tell. I would become a citizen reporter with all other participants of the tea salon we have here. But I don't know how to take photos, I can’t use computers. So I can’t do it.” That’s why I decided to organize this workshop. After finishing the workshop, members of tea salon from temporary housing sector 20 [for displaced citizens] became citizen reporters! I’m so pleased for them.
You can see the latest stories from Otsuchi on their Facebook Page as well as their website otsuchinews.net.

author: Keiko Tanaka


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Brazil: Police Violence and Privatization of Public Space in Porto Alegre · Global Voices
Raphael Tsavkko Garcia

[All links lead to Portuguese language pages]
On October 4, 2012 hundreds of students and activists met at the Montevideo Plaza and in the Glênio Peres Square in Porto Alegre, to protest against what they called the privatization of public space.
They protested against the banning of use of that square by street performers and by the general population for artistic activities or fairs, as Coca-Cola was allowed to use the space to put a gigantic inflatable “Tatu-bola” (Soccer Armadillo), symbol of the 2014 World Cup. Porto Alegre is one of the main host cities.
Marco Aurelio Weissheimer explained:
A prefeitura de Porto Alegre repassou para a Coca-Cola a tarefa de “cuidar” do Largo Glênio Peres, uma das áreas mais tradicionais do centro da capital e espaço histórico de manifestações sociais, culturais e políticos.
[…]
A iniciativa não é isolada. Outros espaços públicos da cidade estão sendo repassados pela gestão Fortunati para a iniciativa privada, como é o caso do Auditório Araújo Viana, agora sob os cuidados da produtora Opus. O ufanismo empreendedorista embalado pelas “obras da Copa” justifica a invasão privada de espaços públicos na cidade.
The city hall handed over to Coca-Cola the task of “taking care” of the Glênio Peres Square, one of the most traditional areas of the center of the capital and historically a space for social protest, cultural and political gatherings.
[…]
The initiative is not unique. Other public spaces of the city are being turned over to the management of [Mayor] Fortunati to the private sector, as is the case of Araújo Viana Auditorium, now under the care of Opus, a producer. An enterprise-oriented, nationalistic swagger wrapped in “construction for the World Cup” justifies the private invasion of public spaces in the city.
The students and activists tried to destroy the mascot – in which they succeeded – and in the process were repressed with extreme violence by the Military Brigade, the local military police at the service of the Governor of the state.
Photo that become famous from the scenes of violence in Porto Alegre. Photo: Ramiro Furquim/Sul21.com.br used with permission
Ramiro Furquim, Igor Natusch, Samir Oliveira and Felipe Prestes wrote for the alternative newspaper Sul 21 about the events. According to them, the “protestors were dancing, singing and shouting words against Mayor José Fortunati (PDT)” while “more than 20 municipal police defended the entrance to city hall and exactly 19 military police – grouped in four vehicles and three motorcycles – defended the mascot.”
Soccer Armadillo destroyed after protesters’ actions. Photo: Ramiro Furquim/Sul21.com.br used with permission
According to witnesses, some few protesters passed through without being contained by the barrier around the inflatable armadillo and, once close to it, the Military Brigade started to attack all those who were in the area.
Para defender o boneco (…) foram deslocados cerca de 60 policiais militares do Pelotão de Operações Especiais (POE) do 9º Batalhão de Polícia Militar, além de tropas da Guarda Municipal. Os policiais jogaram bombas de gás lacrimogêneo, dispararam tiros com munição não-letal e partiram para cima dos manifestantes com seus cassetetes. Os relatos informam que sequer os jornalistas presentes foram poupados. Pelo menos três, que estavam devidamente identificados com seus crachás, foram agredidos: um fotógrafo do jornal Zero Hora, um repórter do Correio do Povo e um repórter da Rádio Guaíba.
To defend the armadillo (…) about 60 military police were deployed from the Special Operations Platoon (POE) of the 9th Military Police Battalion, beyond troops from the City Guard. The police launched tear gas bombs, shot non-lethal munitions and rained down blows on the protesters with nightsticks. Reports say that not even journalists present were spared. At least three, who were duly identified by their ID badges, were attacked: a photographer of Zero Hora, a reporter from Correio do Povo and a reporter from Radio Guaíba.
At least 6 protesters were arrested and between 14-20 were injured and taken to the hospital. The Blog do Prestes reported aggression against the journalists and even a case of racism against a reporter.
Youtube user ciclodocs posted a video with images of the police aggression:
The Blog F2 Véia de Guerra posted a series of videos on the violence of the Military Brigade and commented:
Em que nível a sociedade chegou. Pagamos impostos (que não são poucos) para pagar salário de policial que defende boneco de plástico. Boneco esse que não foi pedido pelo povo, boneco esse que não representa as necessidades desse povo.
[…]
Policiais batem em outros seres humanos para defender uma porcaria de uma multinacional, e justificam isso dizendo que essas pessoas estão depredando propriedade privada, policiais que logo depois machucam , quebram celulares e máquinas fotográficas dessas pessoas.
Quem são os vândalos? Quem são os estúpidos?
Society has descended to quite a low. We pay taxes (and not insignificant ones) to pay the salaries of these police who defend an inflatable plastic doll. A doll that was not asked for by the people, doll that does not represent the needs of this people.
[…]
Police beat other human beings to defend a piece of crap of a multinational, and they defend this saying that people are destroying private property, police who after hurting people, break cell phones and cameras of these people.
Who are the vandals here? Who are the idiots?
Cartoon by Carlos Latuff, under Creative Commons license
But I am also tired of seeing all kinds of useless protests, if not because of the naivete to think that one slogan can change everything, then because of the mediocrity of using them for personal purposes. I am tired of seeing people taking advantage of important issues, that must be discussed, for petty politics. People, I am tired of seeing blood spilled because of a plastic armadillo.
Youtube user Samantha Torres posted more images of the police violence and journalists:
Even in face of eventual excesses by some protesters, there is no justification for these scenes, including aggression against those who were filmed the episode (which is, by the way, not the first time this happens).
Mashup on a photo of the scene of police violence. Photo by Ramiro Furquim/Sul21.com.br used with permission
Pessoalmente, sou contra o confronto físico com policiais. Isso gera repercussão negativa (mesmo que a causa seja justa) e coloca o grosso da população, essa massa amorfa e apática, contra os manifestantes.
Mas acredito que, neste caso do Largo Glênio Peres, esconder ou omitir as violências originárias do poder público e de uma empresa multinacional também é vandalismo, também é violência. Achar que revitalizar o Centro é sinônimo de tirar o povo do Largo e beneficiar empresas é um gravíssimo ato de violência, que deve ser denunciado.
Se esta é uma briga de sujos contra mal lavados, adoto o seguinte critério: entre bonecos infláveis e pessoas, fico do lado das pessoas. Não é da cabeça do boneco que sai sangue.
Personally, I am against physical confrontation with the police. This has negative reprecussions (even if the cause is just) and turns the majority of the population, this amorphous and apathetic mass, against the protesters.
But I believe that, in this case of Glênio Peres Square, to hide or omit the violence coming from public authorities and a multinational company is also vandalism, it is also violence. To think that revitalizing the Center is synonymous with removing people from the Square and benefiting companies is a grave act of violence, and should be denounced.
If this is a fight between the dirty and poorly-washed, I adopt the following criterion: between inflatable mascots and people, I am on the people's side. It won't be from an inflatable mascot's head that blood runs.
On October 7, the Governor of Rio Grande do Sul, Tarso Genro, responsible for the Military Brigade of the state, released a note of repudiation of the police violence. On the next day the Military Brigade recognized it had committed “excesses.”

author: Raphael Tsavkko Garcia


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Cambodia Mourns the Death of King Father Norodom Sihanouk  · Global Voices
Sopheap Chak

Cambodia is mourning the death of King Father Norodom Sihanouk who died last October 15, 2012. Sihanouk is known as a hero of the Kingdom of Cambodia for his achievements which include the peaceful claiming of the country's independence from the French colonization in 1953, for steering the country's road to prosperity during the Sangkum Reastr Niyum, for winning a case in the International Court of Justice in 1962 which recognized Cambodia's ownership of Preah Vihear Temple near the Thai border, and particularly his role in the Paris Peace Agreement in 1991 which marked the end of civil wars that brought peace to the country.
“You are our hero, you will be missed” is the common message expressed by citizens and netizens who are all mourning the death of the King. His body was brought back to the country from Beijing where he often went to seek medical treatment.
Cambodians waited in line along the Russian Boulevard near the Council of Ministers for the return of the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk. Photo by author
On October 17, 2012, millions of people waited in line along the way from the international airport to the Royal Palace to pay respect to the King reminiscent of Sihanouk's historic return to Cambodia in November 1991 after being out of the country for 13 years.
The news of Sihanouk's death broke out during the long holiday of Pchum Ben Festival. The mood suddenly changed in the internet as people started to send their tributes to the late King. Cambodians used the twitter hashtag #RIPKingSihanouk to express their mourning:
@Cambodian_VIPz #RIPKingSihanouk We're sad and we're crying, you were leaving us. Father king of independence Norodom Sihanouk. pic.twitter.com/11x8wRXD
@lanycassie #RIPKingSihanouk My hero grandpa smile the best in this world <3 pic.twitter.com/fuD2ilqt
@Nida_CamELF Without him, Cambodia are now may still be the slave of French Colonization. #RIPKingSihanouk
@PinkyElevenShi Even It's Raining But Cambodian Still Stay in front of The Royal Palace This Made Me Crying #RIPKingSihanouk
There are also Facebook pages which were created in honor of the King Father:
Cambodians coming from various provinces and regions were united in mourning the death of King Norodom Sihanouk. Photo from the Facebook photo album of Rip Somdech Ta (King Norodom Sihanouk)
Khmerbird hopes to see Cambodian politicians to follow the teachings of the late King:
The King Father once said (Source):
I want my country to be independent, always independent. I have done my best, but as a human being I cannot be perfect, nobody is perfect.
I hope all Cambodian politician would follow this statement. The King Father accepted that he is not perfect but he has a clear vision to put his country independent.
Khmerbird identifies the legacy of Sihanouk:
He built a very beautiful country and made Cambodia once as the most beautiful country in Asia. There’s one thing we know it is true is that he loves his country and he wants to bring happiness to his people.
The King's death inspired citizens like Koh Tha to contribute more for the progress of the country:
I watched TVs broadcasted the ceremony and historical films and documents of my late great King. I don’t know why my mind feel so mixed, sad and sorrow. My tear dropped silently. I deeply feel that I myself as well as my country lost the great hero. Then, a very strong power come into my heart and talk my that “Kok Tha, there is something that you need to put more effort to help and develop your country”. I just feel that what I have done so far is not enough and even much less than my king. I need to continue my hard-work and my well-being to colleague, youth organizations, role models, my friends, youths, family and my love.
The National Mourning Ceremony for the King will take place until October 23, 2012. The public can pay their last respects by visiting the Royal Palace in the next three months. After this period, the King's body will be cremated according to Buddhism ritual.

author: Sopheap Chak


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Cameroon: Students and Researchers Evaluate the Welfare System    · Global Voices
Rakotomalala

Welfare Systems are rapidly evolving in Sub-Saharan Africa, with some countries having implemented systems allowing evaluation of measures taken several decades ago. Students and researchers from Cameroon have closely examined social public policies and private sector initiatives in their country.
Fundamentals and Weaknesses of the Cameroon Social Security System
The Centre of European and International Liaisons for Social Security, CLEISS, provided a summary [fr] of the Cameroon social security system:
La sécurité sociale camerounaise comporte trois branches :
Les soins sont dispensés aux travailleurs par les employeurs dans le cadre du code du travail. Toutefois, depuis 1962, un certain nombre de soins sont dispensés, dans le cadre d'un service national de santé. La législation camerounaise de sécurité sociale ne comporte pas, en effet, de branche “soins de santé”. Les cotisations sont payées sur les salaires plafonnés à 300.000 francs CFA sauf pour les accidents du travail pour lesquels les cotisations sont payées sur la totalité du salaire. Le SMIG est égal à 28.216 francs CFA par mois pour 40 heures de travail hebdomadaire dans les entreprises non agricoles publics ou privées.
The Cameroon social security system consists of three branches:
Treatment is provided to workers by employers according to the labour code. However a certain number of treatments have been provided through the national health service since 1962. Cameroon social security legislation does not actually include a ‘health care’ branch. Contributions are paid on wages up to a ceiling of 300,000 CFA francs, except in the case of work accidents, where contributions are paid on the whole salary. The guaranteed minimum wage is 28,216 CFA francs per month for 40 hours of weekly work in public or private non-agricultural businesses.
Informal workers at the Biyem-Assi crossroads in Yaounde by Niluje from wikipedia (CC License-Public Domain)
Alex Okolouma, doctoral student at the University of Yaoundé in 2008, argued that Cameroon social security has not worked well since its implementation in the early 1980s because of three main factors: the financial crisis, systemic inefficiency and a lack of legitimacy. He explained [fr]:
Les difficultés éventuelles que peut rencontrer le système de sécurité sociale dépendent toutefois de la conjoncture dans laquelle il évolue, du taux d'activité dans l'économie formelle et de la gestion des fonds qui alimentent le régime. Si l'on prévoit une hausse des activités dans l'économie informelle chez les individus appartenant à la classe d'âge des actifs, alors cela ne peut que susciter la dégradation du ratio de dépendance du système. Plusieurs facteurs de dysfonctionnements ont été identifiés. Pour certains ces facteurs sont d'abord démographiques et macroéconomiques. Il y a l'arrivée à l'âge de la retraite de populations importantes de salariés pris en charge à l'époque de la croissance et bénéficiaires de pensions au moment où le nombre de cotisants a baissé considérablement. A ces facteurs structurels et financiers s'ajoutent également les évolutions négatives de la gestion interne (gestion financière et gestion administrative).
Okouloma recommended a new approach [fr]:
Si ce système continue à fonctionner ainsi, sa viabilité sera dans un terme proche mise à mal. Il apparaît donc judicieux d'entreprendre la réforme du système camerounais de protection sociale. La mise en place d'un nouveau modèle de protection sociale va permettre de contribuer à l'extension et à l'amélioration du fonctionnement du système de protection sociale camerounais.
If this system continues to function in this way, its sustainability will be undermined in the short term. It therefore seems advisable to undertake a reform of the Cameroon welfare system. The establishment of a new welfare model will help contribute to the extension and improvement of the functioning of the Cameroon welfare system.
The Private Sector and the Labour Market
Boris Kamga, researcher at the International Relations Institute of Cameroon, IRIC, described the Cameroon insurance market as follows [fr]:
Le marché des assurances se caractérise par une faible couverture des risques industriels, un très faible taux de couverture des ménages, et une assurance-vie encore peu développée. Selon certaines sources, seules une maison sur 10 et une voiture sur deux seraient assurées. [..] Dans le secteur, 25 compagnies, 52 courtiers et 48 agents généraux se partagent un marché dont le chiffre d'affaires (mesuré par les primes émises) était de 94,2 milliards de FCFA en 2005. Parmi les 25 compagnies d'assurance établies au Cameroun, les cinq premières – Chanas, Axa, Saar, AGF et Activa – détenaient en 2005 environ 72,5% du marché. Les deux entreprises d'État (AMACAM et CNR) ont été liquidées.
Kagan believes insurance has a role to play in the recovery of the Cameroon economy. To do this, he concluded [fr]:
Les résultats auxquels nous sont parvenus attestent d'un réel besoin d'assainissement du secteur, étant entendu que le service des assurances est une nécessité impérieuse pour le développement de notre économie, la garantie des personnes et la sécurisation des affaires. Reste que, cet effort d'assainissement doit concerner aussi bien le cadre juridique d'exercice de la profession, les mesures incitatives pour ouvrir les services d'assurances aux diverses branches de l'activité économique, l'amélioration du processus de paiement des sinistres et/ou des engagements dus.
A crucial component of the system remains the labour market and its role in obtaining minimum guarantees for welfare measures. The unemployment rate remains an unknown quantity in Cameroon. Official data from the Cameroon National Institute of Statistics shows an unemployment rate of 4.4% for 2005 while the CIA World Factbook reported unemployment around 30%. In light of the importance of the informal economy, experts believe that it is also important to closely examine employee productivity as a function of the security given by their employment contracts.
Benjamin Fomba Kamga is currently a researcher at IZA, an Economic Research Institute specialising in the labour market. He wrote an article on ‘Labor Contracts and Shirking in Cameroon’. He concluded that:
The employees under short term contracts since their recruitment are more inclined to shirk as well as those who are permanent since their recruitment. Employees without social security are likely to cheat than those with social security and recruited permanently since the beginning.
The importance of a wellfare system that protects most Cameroonians is emphasized by these studies. There is still quite a lot to be achieved before the current system can satisfy such criteria. Political leadership will be paramount to drive the necessary changes.

author: Rakotomalala


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China: Gangnam Style by Beijing Foreigners · Global Voices
Oiwan Lam

Jesse Appell a a Fulbright research fellow studying Chinese comedy made a video, “Laowai Style“, another fantastic parody of the Korean pop “Gangnam Style”.


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Costa Rica: Forum on Online Anonymity, Pseudonyms and Freedom of Expression · Global Voices
Silvia Viñas

Ticoblogger, a community of Costa Rican bloggers, invites everyone to attend the forum “Online Anonymity, Pseudonyms and Freedom of Expression” [es] on Wednesday, October 24, 2012, at 9:00 PM (GMT-03:00) at the Legislative Assembly in San José, Costa Rica. The forum will discuss Article 230 of the ‘Cybercrime Law‘, which penalizes online impersonation.
Tonny Castro shares [es] a link to a ustream channel [es] which will livestream the event.

author: Silvia Viñas


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Global Voices Seeks Advocacy Editor · Global Voices
Ivan Sigal

Global Voices seeks an Advocacy Editor to manage its online freedom of expression content. Global Voices Advocacy seeks to build a global anti-censorship network of citizen media and online activists throughout the developing world that is dedicated to protecting freedom of expression and free access to information online.
The goal of the network is to raise awareness of online freedom of speech issues, and to share tools and tactics with activists and citizen media facing censorship and surveillance on different parts of the globe. The network provides support to both the Global Voices advocacy community and to others, produces and promotes educational guides about information technology advocacy, privacy and anonymity, anti-censorship and and anti- surveillance campaigning, and strategies for online organizing. In collaboration with software developers, activists, and citizen media producers, the network also aims to design and promote new and more appropriate tools to protect our rights on the Internet. Finally, the Global Voices Advocacy community focuses on building and supporting the rights of netizens around the world.
Global Voices is a global, virtual organization, supported by the paid and volunteer efforts of people on every continent. The Advocacy Editor must possess a wide range of professional and personal skills to help the project reach its potential as the leading international network for the development of successful and effective citizen media projects.
The Global Voices Advocacy Editor will be responsible for the following:
We seek a candidate with the following qualities:
To work effectively with our community, we would prefer that candidates:
Have experience living and working internationally, or have traveled extensively in the developing world
The Advocacy Editor will report to the Global Voices Advocacy Director.
The ideal candidate must have a passionate commitment to the values and goals of Global Voices. He or she will be joining a well established core team who are dedicated to amplifying the voices of world. There is no geographic requirement associated with this position; Global Voices has no office or physical headquarters. Candidates must have access to broadband internet connectivity and be comfortable working in a wholly virtual environment. We strongly welcome candidates from outside North America and Western Europe, and encourage people currently working on the Global Voices project to apply.
The position is near full-time or full-time, but should be treated as a freelance contract.
Interested candidates should send a CV and letter of interest explaining why you'd be a good candidate for the job to: adminjob AT globalvoicesonline DOT org by no later than November 5.

author: Ivan Sigal


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North Korea’s Software and IT Exhibition · Global Voices
Lee Yoo Eun

The NK Leadership Watch posted photos of North Korea's 23rd National Software Contest and Exhibition held in Pyongyang. North Korean state media reported 1,300 computer programs developed by North Korean engineers and technicians were displayed in the exhibition.

author: Lee Yoo Eun


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Peru Holds Annual Processions for the Lord of the Miracles · Global Voices
Gabriela García Calderón

Every October, Peru's capital city -Lima- looks as if dyed purple, as followers of the highly venerated image of the Lord of the Miracles celebrate its annual processions on October 18, 19 and 28. People from all racial and economic backgrounds participate in the processions.
Around 1651, black Angolan slaves came together and built a site for their brotherhood in Pachacamilla, in the outskirts of Lima. On one of the building's walls, an unknown Angolan slave captured the image of a crucified Christ on a rough wall. The anonymous slave carried out the painting moved only by his unbreakable faith.
Four years later, on 1655, an earthquake hit Lima and neighboring Callao. Many buildings collapsed, including the walls of the site of the brotherhood of Pachacamilla –all but the wall where the crucified Christ was painted.
On October 20, 1687, another violent earthquake hit Lima and Callao, and one of its aftershocks caused the collapse of the shrine built to honor the crucified Christ. But the image stood strong. An oil painting of the image was made, and for the first time, that replica painting was taken around Pachacamilla on a portable platform which allowed the faithful to pray and express their devotion.
Since then, every October the same oil painting of the Lord of the Miracles presides the procession, followed by thousands of devout believers. Women wear purple dresses with a white rope as belt, while men wear purple ties.
The portable platform is carried on the shoulders of members of the Lord of the Miracles Brotherhood, a religious association made up of about 5000 members divided into twenty squads, honorary brothers, and two groups: cantoras and sahumadoras (female singers and incense burners). The leader is a general foreman appointed by the Archbishop of Lima.
Sahumadoras walking along the procession. Photo by Global Voices contributor Isabel Guerra, used with permission.
As usual, this year the procession was followed by bloggers and Twitter users alike.
The blog Historia y fotos [es] reviews the history of the image and shares some events that happened around it:
Entre el 6 y el 12 de setiembre de aquel año llegó a la ermita de Pachacamilla una comitiva, que incluía un pintor que acercó su escalera a la pared y extendió su mano con la brocha para borrar la venerada imagen de Cristo. En ese momento sufrió un desmayo y tuvieron que sostenerle para que no cayera. Al recuperarse lo intentó de nuevo, pero al darle el primer brochazo, quedó paralizado, después de lo cual se negó rotundamente a intentarlo de nuevo.
Un alarife lo intentó voluntariamente, pero también quedó paralizado. Luego nadie se atrevió a intentarlo. En ese momento se oscureció el cielo y comenzó una gran lluvia, como nunca se había visto en Lima.
Los devotos testigos de aquellos sucesos murmuraban que eran señales de Dios, que no quería que se borrara la imagen.
On September 6-12 that year [1671], a commission arrived to the Pachacamilla shrine, including a painter who put his stepladder by the wall and held out his hand to overpaint the much worshiped image of Christ. He fainted and had to be held not to fall down. Upon recovering, he tried again, but was paralyzed and he refused to try again.
A builder tried the same voluntarily, but he was also paralyzed. No one else even dared to try again. Then the skies went dark and an unprecedented huge rain began, something never seen in Lima.
Devout witnesses mumbled that those were signs from God, that He didn't want the image to be deleted.
It is worth mentioning that in Lima there are no heavy rains, just drizzles that can go on for hours.
The blog Universidad 21 [es] informs citizens with a detailed recount of the processions’ route in Lima, illustrated with maps.
This devotion is also present in the interior of the country, like in the city of Tacna. The blog Tacneños [es] shares news on the city's procession:
En octubre, mes morado. Como todos los años cientos de fieles, acompañan a la imagen del Señor de los Milagros en su recorrido procesional. Este es el recorrido procesional del Señor de los Milagros para el 18 y 28 de octubre en la ciudad de Tacna.
On October, purple month. As each year, hundreds of faithful followers walk with the image of Lord of the Miracles on its processional tour. This is the Lord of the Miracles processional tour for October 18 and 28 in the city of Tacna.
Members of the Lord of the Miracles Brotherhood. Photo by Global Voices contributor Isabel Guerra, used with permission.
Meanwhile, Twitter users have been posting their own share of views.
Actor Jesús Neyra (@Jesusneyra) [es] poses a question:
@Jesusneyra: Señor de los milagros q recorres nuestras calles :-) #mesmorado #espiritumorado mi deseo te lo mando ya?
@Jesusneyra: Lord of the Miracles that travels across our streets :-) #mesmorado [purple month] #espiritumorado [purple spirit] should I send you my wish now?
And Karen Ruiz (@karen_rfer) [es] asks him:
@karen_rfer:  @Jesusneyra alla en usa hay procesion?porq aca en buenos aires si hay todos los años voy con mi familia,no es como en Peru pero es muy lindo.
@karen_rfer:  @Jesusneyra Is there a procession in the US? Because here in Buenos Aires there is one, every year I go with my family. It's not like in Peru but it is very nice.
Juanpi Pozú Pflucker (@juanpipp) [es] sends a picture to Jesús Neyra:
@juanpipp: @Jesusneyra para ti hermano, la tomé hace un rato… Éxitos y exageraaa! pic.twitter.com/lEpUFMYu
@juanpipp: @Jesusneyra for you, my brother, I took it a while ago… All the best and exaggerate! pic.twitter.com/lEpUFMYu
Local TV station AmericaNoticias.pe (@NoticiAmerica) [es] shares a video and mentions Peruvian President Ollanta Humala:
@NoticiaAmerica: [VIDEO] Ollanta Humala fue abucheado durante el recorrido del Señor de los Milagros http://goo.gl/rygsN
@NoticiaAmerica:[VIDEO] Ollanta Humala was booed during procession of Lord of the Miracles http://goo.gl/rygsN
Viajaporperu Indira (@viajaporperu) [es] expresses her surprise:
@viajaporperu: No sabía que la procesión del señor de los milagros se realiza en 260 paises!!! http://bit.ly/QJOUbe
@viajaporperu: I didn't know that the procession of the Lord of the Miracles is held in 260 countries!!! http://bit.ly/QJOUbe
As to confirm that fact, from Santiago de Chile, Marion Duarte (@marionfernanda) [es] shares a picture and tweets:
@marionfernanda: La procesión por diagonal Paraguay del señor de los milagros cc. nico_brown pic.twitter.com/zSsUKk5F
@marionfernanda: Procession of the Lord of the Miracles [passing] by diagonal Paraguay cc. nico_brown pic.twitter.com/zSsUKk5F
Adrián (@sspxs) [es], from Mexico, shares a picture too:
@sspxs: Procesión del Señor de los Milagros (@ Plaza de la Constitución (Zócalo) w/ 23 others) [pic]: http://4sq.com/TJOy5j
@sspxs: Procession of Lord of the Miracles (@ Plaza de la Constitución (Zócalo) w/ 23 others) [pic]: http://4sq.com/TJOy5j
User Humbero Meneses (@elyuka) [es] tweets about a replica that is close to his house:
@elyuka: Hoy es el día en que [la réplica del] el Señor de los Milagros de Polvos Rosados (?) pasa por la puerta de mi jato [casa]. Para mi mamá, esto es mejor que Navidad.
@elyuka: Today, the Polvos Rosados [replica of] Lord of the Miracles goes by the door of my house. For my mom, this is better that Christmas.
The last procession is scheduled for November 1, starting at 11:30 am. The actual Lord of the Miracles, the one painted by the Angolan slave, remains all year long in the Nazarenas church, in downtown Lima, where people can go an pay respects at any time.

author: Gabriela García Calderón


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Portugal: Media Sector Struggling in Hard Times · Global Voices
Hugo Ferro

This post is part of our special coverage Europe in Crisis.
On October 18, 2012, workers at the Portuguese news agency Lusa began a four-day strike against the 30% cuts foreseen in the State Budget for 2013. Their action stopped the news distribution service of the agency.
The second day of strikes, October 19, started with a protest near the side door of the parliament with a subsequent shift to the headquarters of the newspaper Público – also striking that day – joining a protest called by a group of former employees and readers of the newspaper.
In Porto, a debate was held to address the situation of the media, organized jointly by Lusa and Público, in the auditorium of the Creative Industries Cluster at the University of Porto.
The protests began with concentrations in the main cities of Portugal; in Lisbon, near the Presidency of the Council of Ministers; in Porto, at the door of the delegation with the presence of the President of the Journalist's Union, Alfredo Maia; and in Coimbra, near the old building of the delegation.
“Destroying Lusa is to attack democracy”. Photo shared on the Facebook page Lusa – Serviço Público
The interruption of Lusa's services hindered the work of other Portuguese media, which were forced to resort to the Internet and official sources to get information. Lusa distributes roughly 12,000 news pieces and 30,000 pictures a month.
In a Facebook page [pt] recently created by the workers of the agency, a statement in which workers lament the inconvenience caused by the strike and call for understanding, can be read:
Os Trabalhadores da Agência Lusa lamentam os incómodos que esta greve possa causar aos restantes órgãos de comunicação social, clientes da Agência, mas apelam à sua compreensão e solidariedade e, sobretudo, à cobertura noticiosa destas acções de luta.
The Workers of Lusa regret the inconvenience this strike may cause to other media and costumers of the agency, but call for their understanding and solidarity and, above all, the news coverage of these fighting actions.
“Don't let them block Lusa”. Image shared on the Facebook page “Lusa – Serviço Público” created by the workers of Lusa.
The strike lasted until Sunday, October 21, and was marked by several awareness campaigns conducted by picket lines, amongst other media and costumers of Lusa agency services.
A press conference was scheduled for October 22, at the bureau of the Journalist's Union in Lisbon, with worker's representatives, to make an assessment of the strike and to announce new actions.
Over the past few days, an online public petition In Defense of Lusa News Agency [pt] appeared on the Internet. The petition has already gathered more than 4 thousand subscribers who oppose to the budget cut, claiming that this cut “will severely compromise the functioning and editorial quality of Lusa, and the size of the national and international network”.
Apart from Lusa, the workers of the newspaper Público, a quality daily newspaper, are also on strike against the collective dismissal of 48 workers, announced on October 10.
Publico newspaper. Photo by Amendoas on Flickr (BY-NC-SA 2.0)
One of the sacked employees, Manuel Jorge Marmelo, a journalist with Público since its inception and also a writer, described [pt] the day he found out he would be fired on his blog Teatro Anatómico:
Nas caixas do correio, quando hoje cheguei a casa, havia prospectos de uma coisa qualquer (não fixei o quê) com a imagem do Snoopy e a pergunta “já sorriu hoje?”. A mesma pergunta repetida não sei quantas vezes. Pensei que sim, que já tinha sorrido hoje, sorrisos amargos, sobretudo, mas que também tinha chorado com os que me são mais próximos, aflitos por me saberem desempregado. Estou desempregado. Ao fim de 23 anos de trabalho estou desempregado e não sei o que vou fazer amanhã. Como as más notícias correm depressa, amigos perguntaram-me, entretanto, se estou interessado em ser ghostwriter, o escritor-fantasma que trabalha por trás dos livros das celebridades. Os espanhóis chamam-lhes “negros”. É um bom resumo do meu dia.
In mailboxes, when I got home today, there was something (I did not notice what) with the image of Snoopy and the question “have you smiled today?”. The same question repeated I don't know how many times. I thought yes, that I had smiled today, bitter smiles, especially, but I also wept with those who are closest to me, afflicted by knowing that I am unemployed. After 23 years of work I'm unemployed and I do not know what I'll do tomorrow. As the bad news travels fast, friends asked me, however, if I am interested in being a ghostwriter, a ghostwriter who works behind the books of celebrities. The Spanish call them “negros”. It is a good summary of my day.
Filipa Melo, a former journalist with Público and promoter of the protest action that the workers of Lusa joined, wrote on the Facebook event [pt] page:
Ao que sabemos, ainda não foi formalizado o processo de despedimento ou rescisão amigável de nenhum dos 48 profissionais a quem a direcção editorial do Público comunicou na semana passada que viriam a ser dispensados. Por isso, a nossa expressão de solidariedade de amanhã assume uma força e uma importância que podem vir a ser decisivas neste processo. Da parte de alguns dos profissionais em vias de serem dispensados, fica aqui já expresso o agradecimento a todos os que nela participarem.
As we know, the process of dismissal or friendly rescission of none of the 48 professionals to whom the editorial direction Público announced last week that they would be dismissed, has not yet been formalized. Therefore, our expression of solidarity tomorrow takes a strength and importance that may be decisive in this process. From some of the professionals in the process of being dismissed, here's expressed our gratitude to all who took part.
In parallel, a public petition ‘In defense of maintaining the quality of the newspaper Público and the professionals that make it a quality newspaper‘ [pt] was launched and delivered on October 19 at the bureau of Sonae (the company that owns the newspaper), in Porto.
Similar to what is happening in other places of the world, after the announcement of dismissals within the Spanish newspaper El País, the end of the print edition of United States magazine Newsweek and the news, although denied, that the British newspaper The Guardian could be considering the end of the print edition of the newspaper, this is a dark month for journalism.
In an attempt to reverse this situation and to find a solution for journalism, a group of 80 Portuguese journalists and academics wrote an open letter titled ‘For Journalism, for democracy’, reproduced [pt] on the blog Entre as Brumas da Memória:
A redução de efectivos, a precariedade profissional e o desinvestimento nas redacções podem parecer uma solução no curto prazo, mas não vão garantir a sobrevivência das empresas jornalísticas. Conduzem, pelo contrário, a uma perda de rigor, de qualidade e de fiabilidade, que terá como consequência, numa espiral recessiva de cidadania, a desinformação da sociedade, a falta de exigência cívica e um enfraquecimento da democracia.
The downsizing, the job insecurity and the disinvestment in professional newsrooms may seem like a solution in short term, but will not guarantee the survival of newspaper companies. It will lead, instead, to loss of accuracy, quality and reliability, which will result in a recessive spiral of citizenship, the disinformation of society, the lack of civic demand and a weakening of democracy.
This letter may be the starting point for a broader discussion about the role of journalism in democratic societies, in their various forms of organization, financing and distribution and not just an attempt to rescue some jobs.
This post is part of our special coverage Europe in Crisis.

author: Hugo Ferro


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Puerto Rico: Journalism Called Into Question  · Global Voices
Alfredo Richner

Former President of the Association of Puerto Rican Journalists (ASPPRO), Wilda Rodríguez, wrote a scathing column [es] on the current state of journalism in Puerto Rico for local blog 80grados.net. In it, she asks for what she refers to as “simply the basics”: journalism that is informed, honest, and sensible, in order to make a better country – not before saying that:
[…] the majority of journalists are sloppy, ignorant, and undeserving of the distinction of being chroniclers of the people.

author: Alfredo Richner


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Uganda: Getting Ready for the Second Coming of #Kony2012 · Global Voices
Abdoulaye Bah

“I didn’t pay much mind to the #Kony2012 kerfuffle when it first surfaced back in March. I couldn’t be bothered to watch the film and was a bit blasé about the re-emergence (as it seemed to me) of the Lord’s Resistance Army as a topic of wide international interest. But now Invisible Children has released another film that promises the unleashing of a new wave of activism (they’re promising to take over the US capital in mid-November) and awareness-raising”.
OLUFEMI Terry in #KONY2005 on the Africa is a Country blog. OLUFEMI unpacks the nuances that must be taken into account when approaching the stories of child soldiers in Uganda.

author: Abdoulaye Bah


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United States: Former Police Chief Blogs for Better Policing · Global Voices
Solana Larsen

Police officers need to police with consent of those affected if we are to ever have peace and safety in our cities.
Former Madison, Wisconsin police chief David C. Couper writes about the need for compassion in a police force in his blog Improving Police.

author: Solana Larsen


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Arab World: Obama and Romney are on the Same Page on Syria · Global Voices
Amira Al Hussaini

Arab netizens had some harsh words to share after waiting to the wee hours of the early morning to tune in to the last US Presidential Debate 2012 between President Obama and Republican hopeful Mitt Romney before the November elections.
On Twitter, netizens rammed the US policy on Syria, saying both Obama and Romney were two faces of the same coin.
Abu Hatem tweets:
@abuhatem: Romney & Obama on Syria: Exactly the same.
Ahmed Shihab-Eldin adds:
@ASE: He [Obama] doesn't have different ideas, bc we are doing exactly what we are supposed to be doing. #Obama on Romney's plans in #Syria #Debate
Obama's position on Syria? Shared by The New Syria page on Facebook
And The New Syria page on Facebook says:
Looks like #Obama and #Romney care more about #Syria becoming an ‘ally’ to the United States in the long run than actually trying to help the civilians there.
[…]
We don't need your help, Allah is on our side
THE 47th notes:
@THE_47th: So Obama wants 2 c what Israel wants be done in Syria (w/o any intrvntion), Romney thnks Syria is an opportunity. 30k dead r an opportunity.
Meanwhile, Syrian Amal Hanano addresses Obama:
@AmalHanano: Obama, you don't need to visit the Holocaust Museum to remember evil, turn on YouTube and watch #Syria bleed.
Tunisian Sami Ben Romdhane tweets:
@samiTunis: All what I can remember from tonight US presidential debate on CNN is that they are sponsored by Exxon Mobil .. :-) #fact
And Syrian THE 47th jokes:
@THE_47th: The winner today was clearly twitter.
On policymic, Tunisian blogger Ahmed Medien adds:
Monday's debate was not a stellar for both candidates. As someone who might be affected by these same very policies and corporations between U.S. and MENA, I was particularly unimpressed. It is the same talk that we have heard since years


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Benin: Organizing Volunteer Holidays to Share Specific Expertise · Global Voices
Lova Rakotomalala

Round table on volunteer holidays in Benin by Youphil with permission
Youphil writes [fr] about a project driven by Espace Volontariats du Bénin and supported by France Volontaires that promotes volunteer holidays in Porto Novo and Sô-Ava. The project will help experts share their knowledge in fields such as accounting, communication, ICT & project management with local NGOs.

author: Lova Rakotomalala


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Bolivia: Vice President Keeping Track of Netizens’ Insults · Global Voices
Pablo Andres Rivero

“I am always going online and I write down the name and surname of those insulting our president (Evo Morales),” said [es] Álvaro García Linera, Bolivia’s vice president, on October 20, 2012.
While members of the opposition considered this statement an attempt to restrict freedom of speech in the country, the Minister of Government, Carlos Romero, asserted [es] that social media is “regularly misused to attack the Government or misinform about its work”.
Netizens also reacted in different ways to the controversy. Twitter user Juan Carlos Quiroga (@jcrquiroga) [es] looked at the positive side of the vice president’s statement:
Bolivia's vice president Álvaro García Linera during a UNASUR meeting in February 2010. Photo by Presidencia de la República del Ecuador (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
@jcrquiroga: A mí me agradó que el Vice hable de las redes, porque por primera vez sabemos que le interesan las redes sociales. @joup1
@jcrquiroga: I am pleased that the vice president talked about social networks, because for the first time we know they are interested in social media. @joup1
Nevertheless, Mr. García Linera doesn't have an official page, profile or account on Facebook or Twitter, the two most popular social media platforms in Bolivia.
Others, like Mario Durán (@mrduranch) [es], a Twitter user based in El Alto, suggested that the government is taking the wrong approach:
@mrduranch: la idea azul (en referencia al partido de gobierno, MAS) para fiscalizar redes sociales permiten “cosas malas” … con esa logica deberiamos eliminar cuchillos de cocina #fb
@mrduranch: The blue idea (referring to the ruling party, MAS) to monitor social networks [because they] allow “bad things” … On that logic we should eliminate kitchen knives #fb
Other netizens are asking the government to pay attention to important issues and the needs of the Bolivian people. Fabiola Chambi (@fabiolachambi) [es] commented via her Twitter account:
@fabiolachamb: Que el Vice y sus “rastreadores” anoten tb las quejas y necesidades de los internautas. ¡Hay otros espacios donde el pueblo se manifiesta!
@fabiolachamb: The Vice president and his “trackers” should also write down the complaints and needs of Internet users. There are other places where the people manifest themselves!
The vice president's statement and citizens’ reactions – both online and offline – have brought back a debate about the control of social media in Bolivia.
On Gobernabilidad Democrática's Facebook page [es], a platform which aims to broaden the democratic exchange in the country, Miriam Romero Baldiviezo expressed [es] her support to set restrictions, particularly to deal with issues like pornography and crime, and to legislate on the use and access of the Internet. However, replying to Miriam Romero's comment, some activists consider such controls unfeasible due to a number of constraints; for instance, most people in Bolivia connect to the web via Internet cafes and other public spaces, where the same IP address is assigned to different users.

author: Pablo Andres Rivero


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Brazil: Guarani Kaiowá say they will resist together to death · Global Voices
Janet Gunter

Brazilian bloggers and even mainstream media are reacting to a letter by an indigenous Guarani Kaiowá community that claims to have lost all hope, promising a mass resistance to death of 170 men, women and children, if an eviction order goes forward. Global Voices reported in 2011 and 2010 on ongoing violence against the Guarani-Kaiowá.

author: Janet Gunter