PREAMBLE: Our focus this month is on a recently announced initiative, jointly led by the Institute of Development Studies (University of Sussex UK), the Resource Alliance Ltd (London UK) and The Rockefeller Foundation (new York City, USA). The “Bellagio Series on the Future of International Development and the Role of the Philanthropic Sector: Promoting Human Well-being in a Challenging Global Context” is designed to explore future relationships between philanthropy and international development including a convening to be held at the Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center (Lake Como, Italy), November 2011.
Our view at Pacific Health & Development Sciences Inc. (PacificSci) is that, given the continued lagging of donor countries in meeting their long standing financial commitments to development, particularly the G7 group of nations, the role of private philanthropy has become even more important in filling this gap than ever before.
The following report is abstracted from a press release from the Rockefeller Foundation.
THE BELLAGIO INITATIVE
Bellagio, Italy—As millions of people, multilateral organisations, and philanthropic foundations around the world dedicate time and resources for short and long-term solutions to the urgent food crisis in the Horn of Africa, a global dialogue is launched to foster innovative partnerships focused on the improvement of human well-being.
The Bellagio Initiative plans to bring together “the world’s most respected and innovative thinkers in the fields of philanthropy and international development”. Over the coming months they will consider the key issues likely to shape the future wellbeing of humanity and identify new opportunities for joint action by philanthropic and development organisations.
The initiative comes as philanthropic giving becomes ever-more important in the fight to eradicate poverty. It has more than doubled in size over the past decade, according to OECD figures, standing at over US$22bn in 2009.
Throughout the second half of 2011, the Bellagio Initiative will engage a diverse group of practitioners, opinion leaders, beneficiaries, social entrepreneurs and donors to consider innovative solutions to some of the major challenges affecting poor people today. The Initiative will convene global consultations on topics such as climate change, emerging markets, sustainability, migration and rights which, together with specially commissioned papers and commentary, will feed into debate at a high-level summit being held at the Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Centre, Italy, in November.
This summit will explore joint solutions to poverty, drawing from the expertise of the invited participants and others from around the globe participating online.
In addition, the Bellagio Initiative will produce:
• A Timeline of Philanthropy, providing insights into the phenomenal growth of private giving.
• A Mapping of the Philanthropic Sector, revealing who the big private donors are today, what they spend their money on and which countries benefit most from their giving.
• A Framework for Action, focusing on building partnerships, across regions and sectors, for the promotion of human wellbeing.
All those interested in the future of development and the role of philanthropy can contribute to the discussion at the following newly launched WEBSITE which contains an interactive BLOG at http://www.bellagioinitiative.org/
Allister McGregor, a research fellow at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) and Director of the Bellagio Initiative, states: “The process will involve creative thinking, and it will culminate in a concrete action plan that we hope will make a real difference to people’s lives.”
Neelam Makhijani, chief executive of the Resource Alliance (RA), said: "This represents a unique opportunity for those working at the grassroots level, improving wellbeing in their communities, to engage in cross-sector dialogue on today’s most pertinent issues. We anticipate that the innovative solutions to strengthening strategic and sustainable philanthropy discussed throughout the Bellagio Initiative will lead to constructive action in the years to come.”
For more information:
James Georgalakis
email: j.georgalakis@ids.ac.uk
tel: +44 (0)1273 915781
or +44 (0)7713 110579
Summary Notes:
1. The Bellagio Initiative: The Future of Philanthropy and Development in the Pursuit of Human Wellbeing high-level summit will be held at the Rockefeller Bellagio Centre, Italy, from 8-22 November 2011.
2. The Rockefeller Foundation’s mission to promote the wellbeing of people throughout the world has remained unchanged since its founding in 1913.
3. The Institute of Development Studies is a leading global charity for research, teaching and information on international development. It is based at the University of Sussex, Brighton UK.
4. The Resource Alliance is an international charity specialising in building the fundraising capacity of not-for-profit organisations
Source: Press Release, Rockefeller Foundation. August 8, 2011. http://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/news/press-releases/rockefeller-foundation-partners-launch
Envoi: We at PacificSci wish the Bellagio Initiative the best possible success, and trust that its action plan will deliver on its central goal of global poverty alleviation over the coming years.
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The Council is a coalition of Canadian voluntary sector organizations working globally to achieve sustainable human development. CCIC seeks to end global poverty, and to promote social justice and human dignity for all. The Council is a coalition of Canadian voluntary sector organizations working globally to achieve sustainable human development. CCIC seeks to end global poverty, and to promote social justice and human dignity for all.
Established in 1968, CCIC monitors and analyzes federal policies on foreign affairs, aid, trade, debt and defence and communicates its findings to members and the public. The Council brings to the Canadian foreign policy-making arena the unique experience and knowledge of Canadian development practitioners and their Southern partners. Working with member organizations across the country, CCIC also seeks to enable its members to engage Canadians in a collective search for development alternatives. Through its links with like-minded domestic organizations, and by participating in international networks, CCIC connects its members to civil society organizations working in common cause around the globe. The Council also facilitates organizational learning and development among members by assisting their leaders and staff to adapt to a changing environment and changing expectations of their roles.
For more information, visit: http://www.ccic.ca/
Suppose you own a pond on which a water lily is growing, and the plant doubles in size each day....If allowed to grow unchecked, it would cover the pond in 30 days, then choking off the other forms of life in the water. For a long time the lily plant seems small, and so you decide not to worry about cutting it back until it covers half the pond. On what day will that be? On the 29th day of course. You have one day to save your pond!
Living on the Edge
Urban Contrasts - Dhaka
Permanent Home to a World Class Gandaran Archeology Exhibition
Can the world make the shift to renewable energy without threatening the food supply?
This site offers views on sustainable health and development. Your host, PACIFIC HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT SCIENCES Inc. is a Canadian consulting firm.
ETERNAL TRUTH
“…to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others."
Nelson Mandela (1918-2013)
Nelson Mandela (1918-2013)
New Release................... GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH - ECOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS
For information about this timely and exciting new book, including contents and how to order, visit the Oxford University Press website:
http://www.us.oup.com/us/catalog/general/subject/Medicine/EpidemiologyBiostatistics/?view=usa&ci=9780199751907
http://www.us.oup.com/us/catalog/general/subject/Medicine/EpidemiologyBiostatistics/?view=usa&ci=9780199751907
Since 2003, PacificSci has supported initiatives in Bangladesh, India, Kuwait, Pakistan, Kenya, Uganda & Canada.
We have also been involved in monitoring and evaluation of leading public health agencies, including AMREF, ICDDR,B and the World Health Organization.
Visit our WEBSITE:
http://www.pacificsci.org/
We have also been involved in monitoring and evaluation of leading public health agencies, including AMREF, ICDDR,B and the World Health Organization.
Visit our WEBSITE:
http://www.pacificsci.org/
50th Anniversary of the March on Washingon, and MARTIN LUTHER KING's GLOBAL LEGACY
We wish to draw attention to the global significance of the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, being commemorated today Wednesday August 28, 2013.
People the world over owe Dr Martin Luther King a place of honour for his timeless legacy of combating racial oppression. His famous "I have a dream" speech lives on as one of the most powerful and moving political orations of all time.
He was not only a major historical figure in addressing racism in the US, but had an impact on the whole world, much as did Gandhi and Mandela. We note that all three were incarcerated for expounding views against the grain of established interests (a denial of political rights that still holds in many countries).
The Seattle Times has an excellent site on his life , and the following URL leads to some of his famous speeches.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/special/mlk/king/speeches.html
He was not only a major historical figure in addressing racism in the US, but had an impact on the whole world, much as did Gandhi and Mandela. We note that all three were incarcerated for expounding views against the grain of established interests (a denial of political rights that still holds in many countries).
The Seattle Times has an excellent site on his life , and the following URL leads to some of his famous speeches.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/special/mlk/king/speeches.html
A HEALTH PERSPECTIVE ON GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT
For a well developed powerpoint set on the topic of "International and Global Health - Who Benefits?" visit the following URL:
http://www.phabc.org/userfiles/file/Frank_White_CPHA_CentennialWebinar_2010.pdf
http://www.phabc.org/userfiles/file/Frank_White_CPHA_CentennialWebinar_2010.pdf
NEW GLOBAL JOURNAL OF MEDICINE AND PUBLIC HEALTH LAUNCHED
Illustrating a positive trend in research capacity development in developing countries, the Global Journal of Medicine and Public Health was launched early in 2012, honouring the principle that medical and public health practices must be appropriate to settings where they are applied.
An Inaugural Editorial may be viewed at : http://www.gjmedph.org/uploads/EDITORIAL-Vo1No1.pdf
Readers may also visit the CURRENT ISSUE of the journal at: http://www.gjmedph.org/Current.aspx
An Inaugural Editorial may be viewed at : http://www.gjmedph.org/uploads/EDITORIAL-Vo1No1.pdf
Readers may also visit the CURRENT ISSUE of the journal at: http://www.gjmedph.org/Current.aspx
RECOMMENDED GLOBAL LINKS
- Academy for Educational Development
- Africa Biodiversity Collaborative Group
- African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF)
- Amnesty International
- Bangkok Charter on Health Promotion - 2005
- Climate Change News Digest
- Commission for Africa - Report
- Declaration of Alma Ata - 1978
- Essential Health Links Gateway
- ExpandNet WEBSITE: scaling-up
- Free Public Health Courseware Collections
- Global Forum for Health Research
- Global Health Data Links
- Health Impact Assessment Guide
- Human Rights Watch
- Institute of Commonwealth Studies
- Making Markets Work for the Poor
- Medicins Sans Frontieres
- PacificSci's New Website
- The Carter Center
Increased educational attainment and its effect on child mortality
“….In addition to the inherent importance of education and its essential role in economic growth, education and health are strongly related. We updated previous systematic assessments of educational attainment, and estimated the contribution of improvements in women's education to reductions in child mortality in the past 40 years.
Methods: We compiled 915 censuses and nationally representative surveys, and estimated mean number of years of education by age and sex. By use of a first-differences model, we investigated the association between child mortality and women's educational attainment, controlling for income per person and HIV seroprevalence. We then computed counterfactual estimates of child mortality for every country year between 1970 and 2009.
Findings: The global mean number of years of education increased from 4·7 years (95% uncertainty interval 4·4—5·1) to 8·3 years (8·0—8·6) for men (aged ≥25 years) and from 3·5 years (3·2—3·9) to 7·1 years (6·7 −7·5) for women (aged ≥25 years). For women of reproductive age (15—44 years) in developing countries, the years of schooling increased from 2·2 years (2·0—2·4) to 7·2 years (6·8—7·6). By 2009, in 87 countries, women (aged 25—34 years) had higher educational attainment than had men (aged 25—34 years). Of 8·2 million fewer deaths in children younger than 5 years between 1970 and 2009, we estimated that 4·2 million (51·2%) could be attributed to increased educational attainment in women of reproductive age.
Interpretation: The substantial increase in education, especially of women, and the reversal of the gender gap have important implications not only for health but also for the status and roles of women in society. The continued increase in educational attainment even in some of the poorest countries suggests that rapid progress in terms of Millennium Development Goal 4 might be possible.
Reference: Gakidou E, Cowling K, Lozano R, Murray CJL. Increased educational attainment and its effect on child mortality in 175 countries between 1970 and 2009: a systematic analysis. Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. Lancet, 2010. 376, 9745, 959 - 974. Website: http://bit.ly/bfINy4
Acknowledgement: This report was extracted from a mailing from the Pan American Health Organization, PAHO/WHO. Materials are those of the authors and not necessarily of PAHO/WHO or its country members”.
Methods: We compiled 915 censuses and nationally representative surveys, and estimated mean number of years of education by age and sex. By use of a first-differences model, we investigated the association between child mortality and women's educational attainment, controlling for income per person and HIV seroprevalence. We then computed counterfactual estimates of child mortality for every country year between 1970 and 2009.
Findings: The global mean number of years of education increased from 4·7 years (95% uncertainty interval 4·4—5·1) to 8·3 years (8·0—8·6) for men (aged ≥25 years) and from 3·5 years (3·2—3·9) to 7·1 years (6·7 −7·5) for women (aged ≥25 years). For women of reproductive age (15—44 years) in developing countries, the years of schooling increased from 2·2 years (2·0—2·4) to 7·2 years (6·8—7·6). By 2009, in 87 countries, women (aged 25—34 years) had higher educational attainment than had men (aged 25—34 years). Of 8·2 million fewer deaths in children younger than 5 years between 1970 and 2009, we estimated that 4·2 million (51·2%) could be attributed to increased educational attainment in women of reproductive age.
Interpretation: The substantial increase in education, especially of women, and the reversal of the gender gap have important implications not only for health but also for the status and roles of women in society. The continued increase in educational attainment even in some of the poorest countries suggests that rapid progress in terms of Millennium Development Goal 4 might be possible.
Reference: Gakidou E, Cowling K, Lozano R, Murray CJL. Increased educational attainment and its effect on child mortality in 175 countries between 1970 and 2009: a systematic analysis. Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. Lancet, 2010. 376, 9745, 959 - 974. Website: http://bit.ly/bfINy4
Acknowledgement: This report was extracted from a mailing from the Pan American Health Organization, PAHO/WHO. Materials are those of the authors and not necessarily of PAHO/WHO or its country members”.
Indigenous Peoples Still Among Poorest in World, but Progress Reported in Some Countries
New study documents poverty statistics for Indigenous Peoples in Asia, Latin America
“….Indigenous Peoples worldwide continue to be among the poorest of the poor and continue to suffer from higher poverty, lower education, and a greater incidence of disease and discrimination than other groups, according to a new World Bank study: Indigenous Peoples, Poverty, and Development.
Released at the Ninth Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the study offers a "global snapshot” of a set of indicators for Indigenous Peoples vis-à-vis national demographic averages. It also considers in detail how social conditions have evolved in seven countries around the world (Central African Republic, China, Congo, Gabon, India, Laos and Vietnam).
The study shows how success in some Asian countries at achieving sustained growth and poverty reduction has helped their Indigenous Peoples to achieve better poverty, health, and education outcomes. A poverty gap still persists, however, between indigenous and non-indigenous populations, and while the gap is narrowing in China, it is stable or widening in most other countries.
The report provides both a grand overview of basic statistics across indigenous groups, and a series of in-depth country chapters. Large scale household surveys or census data were used to document poverty and other socio-economic trends (health, education) among Indigenous Peoples in the countries analyzed.
Combined with earlier case studies for five Latin American countries – “Indigenous Peoples, Poverty and Human Development in Latin America,” (Hall and Patrinos 2006) – the new study offers a set of detailed results for almost 80 percent of the world’s indigenous population.
Turning the situation around will require widespread and sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction, along with well designed programs that target Indigenous Peoples….”
Source: Authors - Gillette Hall, Georgetown University, Harry Patrinos World Bank. http://www.worldbank.org/indigenouspeoples
Available online as PDF file [339p.] at: http://bit.ly/cGnnyc
“….Indigenous Peoples worldwide continue to be among the poorest of the poor and continue to suffer from higher poverty, lower education, and a greater incidence of disease and discrimination than other groups, according to a new World Bank study: Indigenous Peoples, Poverty, and Development.
Released at the Ninth Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the study offers a "global snapshot” of a set of indicators for Indigenous Peoples vis-à-vis national demographic averages. It also considers in detail how social conditions have evolved in seven countries around the world (Central African Republic, China, Congo, Gabon, India, Laos and Vietnam).
The study shows how success in some Asian countries at achieving sustained growth and poverty reduction has helped their Indigenous Peoples to achieve better poverty, health, and education outcomes. A poverty gap still persists, however, between indigenous and non-indigenous populations, and while the gap is narrowing in China, it is stable or widening in most other countries.
The report provides both a grand overview of basic statistics across indigenous groups, and a series of in-depth country chapters. Large scale household surveys or census data were used to document poverty and other socio-economic trends (health, education) among Indigenous Peoples in the countries analyzed.
Combined with earlier case studies for five Latin American countries – “Indigenous Peoples, Poverty and Human Development in Latin America,” (Hall and Patrinos 2006) – the new study offers a set of detailed results for almost 80 percent of the world’s indigenous population.
Turning the situation around will require widespread and sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction, along with well designed programs that target Indigenous Peoples….”
Source: Authors - Gillette Hall, Georgetown University, Harry Patrinos World Bank. http://www.worldbank.org/indigenouspeoples
Available online as PDF file [339p.] at: http://bit.ly/cGnnyc
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)
The CRC has been ratified by every UN member state except the USA and Somalia. It covers the full spectrum of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, stressing their indivisible and interdependent relationship.
The rights fall into 4 categories:
* subsistence rights: including the rights to food, shelter and health care
* development rights: which allow children to reach their fullest potential
* protection rights: such as the right to life and protection from abuse, neglect and exploitation
* participation rights: which allow children to play an active role in community and political life
The rights of the Convention apply regardless of ''race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth or other status''.
The main message is equality of opportunity. Girls should be given the same opportunities as boys. Poor children, disabled children, refugee children, children of indigenous or minority groups - all should have the same rights as others, the same opportunities to learn and enjoy an adequate standard of living.
The Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, which came into force in February 2002, prohibits the use of children aged under 18 in hostilities. Unlike most international treaties, it applies to both states and non-state actors such as armed opposition groups.
Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, which came into force in January 2002, gives special emphasis to the criminalization of serious violations of children's rights - namely sale of children, illegal adoption, child prostitution and pornography – and international cooperation as a means of combating these transnational activities.
Reference: Amnesty International (Canada). http://www.amnesty.ca/themes/children_un_convention.php Accessed Feb 16, 2010.
The rights fall into 4 categories:
* subsistence rights: including the rights to food, shelter and health care
* development rights: which allow children to reach their fullest potential
* protection rights: such as the right to life and protection from abuse, neglect and exploitation
* participation rights: which allow children to play an active role in community and political life
The rights of the Convention apply regardless of ''race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth or other status''.
The main message is equality of opportunity. Girls should be given the same opportunities as boys. Poor children, disabled children, refugee children, children of indigenous or minority groups - all should have the same rights as others, the same opportunities to learn and enjoy an adequate standard of living.
The Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, which came into force in February 2002, prohibits the use of children aged under 18 in hostilities. Unlike most international treaties, it applies to both states and non-state actors such as armed opposition groups.
Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography, which came into force in January 2002, gives special emphasis to the criminalization of serious violations of children's rights - namely sale of children, illegal adoption, child prostitution and pornography – and international cooperation as a means of combating these transnational activities.
Reference: Amnesty International (Canada). http://www.amnesty.ca/themes/children_un_convention.php Accessed Feb 16, 2010.
Geneva Conventions 101
What we thought we knew, or at least should have known, but perhaps were afraid to ask?
Fundamental Rules cited by the International Committee of the Red Cross (abridged): 1 Persons hors de combat and those who do not take a direct part in hostilities... shall in all circumstances be protected and treated humanely without any adverse distinction. 2 It is forbidden to kill or injure an enemy who surrenders or who is hors de combat.3 The wounded and sick shall be collected and cared for by the party to the conflict which has them in its power... 4 Captured combatants and civilians...are entitled to respect for their lives, dignity, personal rights and convictions. They shall be protected against all acts of violence and reprisals. They shall have the right to correspond with their families and to receive relief. 5 Everyone shall be entitled to benefit from fundamental judicial guarantees.... No one shall be subjected to physical or mental torture, corporal punishment or cruel or degrading treatment. 6 Parties to a conflict and members of their armed forces do not have an unlimited choice of methods and means of warfare.... 7 Parties to a conflict shall at all times distinguish between the civilian population and combatants in order to spare civilian population and property... Attacks shall be directed solely against military objectives.
Source: http://www.icrc.org/eng
Fundamental Rules cited by the International Committee of the Red Cross (abridged): 1 Persons hors de combat and those who do not take a direct part in hostilities... shall in all circumstances be protected and treated humanely without any adverse distinction. 2 It is forbidden to kill or injure an enemy who surrenders or who is hors de combat.3 The wounded and sick shall be collected and cared for by the party to the conflict which has them in its power... 4 Captured combatants and civilians...are entitled to respect for their lives, dignity, personal rights and convictions. They shall be protected against all acts of violence and reprisals. They shall have the right to correspond with their families and to receive relief. 5 Everyone shall be entitled to benefit from fundamental judicial guarantees.... No one shall be subjected to physical or mental torture, corporal punishment or cruel or degrading treatment. 6 Parties to a conflict and members of their armed forces do not have an unlimited choice of methods and means of warfare.... 7 Parties to a conflict shall at all times distinguish between the civilian population and combatants in order to spare civilian population and property... Attacks shall be directed solely against military objectives.
Source: http://www.icrc.org/eng
JUSTICE FOR THE LUBICON CREE - A Human Rights Challenge for Alberta, Canada
An estimated $14 billion in revenue has been generated on Lubicon lands in northern Alberta, yet the Lubicon community of Little Buffalo has no safe, clean drinking water and no sanitation.
There are at least 4 times more oil and gas wells on Lubicon land than there are Lubicon people. Within 3 of years of the first oil wells the number of people dependent on social assistance increased from 10 to 90%. Lubicon houses have no running water or plumbing: traditional sources of water have been contaminated since the onset of resource exploration.
http://www.amnesty.ca/updates/speakout/Nov09/speakout_Nov09.html
There are at least 4 times more oil and gas wells on Lubicon land than there are Lubicon people. Within 3 of years of the first oil wells the number of people dependent on social assistance increased from 10 to 90%. Lubicon houses have no running water or plumbing: traditional sources of water have been contaminated since the onset of resource exploration.
http://www.amnesty.ca/updates/speakout/Nov09/speakout_Nov09.html
A Comparative Perspective on Poverty Reduction in Brazil, China and India
“………Brazil, China and India have seen falling poverty in their reform periods, but to varying degrees and for different reasons. History left China with favorable initial conditions for rapid poverty reduction through market-led economic growth; at the outset of the reform process there were ample distortions to remove and relatively low inequality in access to the opportunities so created, though inequality has risen markedly since. By concentrating such opportunities in the hands of the better off, prior inequalities in various dimensions handicapped poverty reduction in both Brazil and India. Brazil’s recent success in complementing market- oriented reforms with progressive social policies has helped it achieve more rapid poverty reduction than India, although Brazil has been less successful in terms of economic growth. In the wake of its steep rise in inequality, China might learn from Brazil’s success with such policies. India needs to do more to assure that poor people are able to participate in both the country’s growth process and its social policies; here there are lessons from both China and Brazil. All three countries have learned how important macroeconomic stability is to poverty reduction…..”.
Source: A Comparative Perspective on Poverty Reduction in Brazil, China and India
Martin Ravallion, The World Bank
Development Research Group - Director’s Office
Policy Research Working Paper 5080 - October 2009 WPS5080
Available online as PDF file [38p.] at:
http://www-wds.worldbank.org/external/default/WDSContentServer/WDSP/IB/2009/10/15/000158349_20091015114049/Rendered/PDF/WPS5080.pdf
Source: A Comparative Perspective on Poverty Reduction in Brazil, China and India
Martin Ravallion, The World Bank
Development Research Group - Director’s Office
Policy Research Working Paper 5080 - October 2009 WPS5080
Available online as PDF file [38p.] at:
http://www-wds.worldbank.org/external/default/WDSContentServer/WDSP/IB/2009/10/15/000158349_20091015114049/Rendered/PDF/WPS5080.pdf
CANADIAN COUNCIL FOR INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION - Information
The Council is a coalition of Canadian voluntary sector organizations working globally to achieve sustainable human development. CCIC seeks to end global poverty, and to promote social justice and human dignity for all. The Council is a coalition of Canadian voluntary sector organizations working globally to achieve sustainable human development. CCIC seeks to end global poverty, and to promote social justice and human dignity for all.
Established in 1968, CCIC monitors and analyzes federal policies on foreign affairs, aid, trade, debt and defence and communicates its findings to members and the public. The Council brings to the Canadian foreign policy-making arena the unique experience and knowledge of Canadian development practitioners and their Southern partners. Working with member organizations across the country, CCIC also seeks to enable its members to engage Canadians in a collective search for development alternatives. Through its links with like-minded domestic organizations, and by participating in international networks, CCIC connects its members to civil society organizations working in common cause around the globe. The Council also facilitates organizational learning and development among members by assisting their leaders and staff to adapt to a changing environment and changing expectations of their roles.
For more information, visit: http://www.ccic.ca/
mother and child
LIMITS TO GROWTH
Suppose you own a pond on which a water lily is growing, and the plant doubles in size each day....If allowed to grow unchecked, it would cover the pond in 30 days, then choking off the other forms of life in the water. For a long time the lily plant seems small, and so you decide not to worry about cutting it back until it covers half the pond. On what day will that be? On the 29th day of course. You have one day to save your pond!
EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION IN CANADA
According to a survey of responses to 6,000 mock resumes for jobs in metropolitan Toronto, applicants were more likely to land an interview if their name is John Martin or Emily Brown rather than Lei Li or Tara Singh. Anglo names were 40% more likely overall to receive callbacks than people of the same education and job experience but with Indian, Chinese or Pakistani names. Those with mixed names e.g, Vivian Singh, were at intermediate disadvantage, with a rate 20% lower than anglo names. The study was carried out by economist Philip Oreopoulos of the University of British Columbia.
The study challenges Canada's claim to be a country that celebrates diversity, and underscores the difficulty that even highly skilled immigrants have in the labour market. There was nothing in this study to reveal whether “foreign-sounding” names were of immigrants or of people born in Canada, indicating that the offspring of immigrants face name discrimination regardless of how many generations their family has been Canadian.
Source: Jimenez M. Right Resume, Wrong Name. Globe and Mail, May 21, 2009.
The study challenges Canada's claim to be a country that celebrates diversity, and underscores the difficulty that even highly skilled immigrants have in the labour market. There was nothing in this study to reveal whether “foreign-sounding” names were of immigrants or of people born in Canada, indicating that the offspring of immigrants face name discrimination regardless of how many generations their family has been Canadian.
Source: Jimenez M. Right Resume, Wrong Name. Globe and Mail, May 21, 2009.
A Human Rights Approach to Neglected Tropical Diseases
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect one billion people in the world, often the most vulnerable populations living in poor rural areas in low-income countries. NTDs can result in lifelong disabilities and even death. They constitute a source of social stigma, discrimination and poverty. Affected populations often do not have access to treatment and preventive measures, and research and development has been insufficient.
In recent years, there is growing attention to NTDs as both a public health, and human rights issue. This WHO Information sheet, available in English, French and Spanish) on a human rights-based approach to neglected tropical diseases, aims to raise understanding and knowledge among health planners, human rights groups, development partners and civil society organisations.
Source: World Health Organization - Health & Human Rights team. Department of Ethics, Equity, Trade and Human Rights - 2009
Full Report: A Human Rights Approach to Neglected Tropical Diseases. http://www.who.int/hhr/activities/NTD%20information%20sheet%20-%20English.pdf
In recent years, there is growing attention to NTDs as both a public health, and human rights issue. This WHO Information sheet, available in English, French and Spanish) on a human rights-based approach to neglected tropical diseases, aims to raise understanding and knowledge among health planners, human rights groups, development partners and civil society organisations.
Source: World Health Organization - Health & Human Rights team. Department of Ethics, Equity, Trade and Human Rights - 2009
Full Report: A Human Rights Approach to Neglected Tropical Diseases. http://www.who.int/hhr/activities/NTD%20information%20sheet%20-%20English.pdf
Living on the Edge
Urban Contrasts - Dhaka
State of the World’s Cities 2008/2009 - Harmonious Cities
Comments from Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General
“…….Half of humanity now lives in cities, and within two decades, nearly 60 per cent of the world’s people will be urban dwellers. Urban growth is most rapid in the developing world, where cities gain an average of 5 million residents every month. As cities grow in size and population, harmony among the spatial, social and environmental aspects of a city and between their inhabitants becomes of paramount importance. This harmony hinges on two key pillars: equity and sustainability. “
“……Cities embody some of society’s most pressing challenges, from pollution and disease to unemployment and lack of adequate shelter. But cities are also venues where rapid, dramatic change is not just possible but expected. Thus they present real opportunities for increasing energy efficiency, reducing disparities in development and improving living conditions in general. National and local governments can promote harmonious urbanization by supporting pro-poor, inclusive and equitable urban development and by strengthening urban governance structures and processes. History demonstrates that integrated urban policy can be a solid path towards development.
Contrary to popular opinion, inequality and the unsustainable use of energy are not inevitable aspects of urban development, nor are they necessary for urbanization and economic growth to occur. Rather, as this report illustrates, cities can advance the prosperity of their inhabitants while achieving equitable social outcomes and fostering the sustainable use of resources.
………..”
Source: Press Kit State of the World’s Cities 2008/2009 - Harmonious Cities. United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT), 2008
http://www.unhabitat.org/content.asp?cid=5964&catid=7&typeid=46&subMenuId=0
Reference: State of the World’s Cities 2008/2009 - Harmonious Cities.
Full report available online as PDF file [288p.] at:
http://www.unchs.org/pmss/getElectronicVersion.asp?nr=2562&alt=1
“…….Half of humanity now lives in cities, and within two decades, nearly 60 per cent of the world’s people will be urban dwellers. Urban growth is most rapid in the developing world, where cities gain an average of 5 million residents every month. As cities grow in size and population, harmony among the spatial, social and environmental aspects of a city and between their inhabitants becomes of paramount importance. This harmony hinges on two key pillars: equity and sustainability. “
“……Cities embody some of society’s most pressing challenges, from pollution and disease to unemployment and lack of adequate shelter. But cities are also venues where rapid, dramatic change is not just possible but expected. Thus they present real opportunities for increasing energy efficiency, reducing disparities in development and improving living conditions in general. National and local governments can promote harmonious urbanization by supporting pro-poor, inclusive and equitable urban development and by strengthening urban governance structures and processes. History demonstrates that integrated urban policy can be a solid path towards development.
Contrary to popular opinion, inequality and the unsustainable use of energy are not inevitable aspects of urban development, nor are they necessary for urbanization and economic growth to occur. Rather, as this report illustrates, cities can advance the prosperity of their inhabitants while achieving equitable social outcomes and fostering the sustainable use of resources.
………..”
Source: Press Kit State of the World’s Cities 2008/2009 - Harmonious Cities. United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT), 2008
http://www.unhabitat.org/content.asp?cid=5964&catid=7&typeid=46&subMenuId=0
Reference: State of the World’s Cities 2008/2009 - Harmonious Cities.
Full report available online as PDF file [288p.] at:
http://www.unchs.org/pmss/getElectronicVersion.asp?nr=2562&alt=1
On Civilization
Civilization has been thrust upon me.. and it has not added one whit to my love for truth, honesty, and generosity. Chief Luther Standing Bear (Oglala Sioux)
Improving the Health of Canadians: Mental Health, Delinquency and Criminal Activity
This new report examines the relationships between mental health, delinquency and criminal activity and their determinants.
http://secure.cihi.ca/cihiweb/dispPage.jsp?cw_page=PG_1250_E&cw_topic=1250&cw_rel=AR_1730_E
http://secure.cihi.ca/cihiweb/dispPage.jsp?cw_page=PG_1250_E&cw_topic=1250&cw_rel=AR_1730_E
Announcement - New LINKS
The AED-SATELLIFE Center for Health Information & Technology system of Essential Health Links (EHL) has been added to our recommended links list (well below in this column). EHL connects to >700 health science websites.
WHAT THE UNITED STATES CAN LEARN ABOUT HEALTH CARE FROM OTHER COUNTRIES
Open access article that proposes lessons the US can learn from other countries and recommendations for achieving a high-performance health care system.Annals of Internal Medicine 2008; 148(1): 55-75http://www.annals.org/cgi/content/full/148/1/55?ck=nck
PEOPLES OPEN ACCESS EDUCATION INITIATIVE
A new virtual educational institution focused on capacity building for public health has been recently launched. A paper giving the background to the "People's Open Access Education Initiative was published in the December 2007 issue of the Bulletin of the World Health Organization and may be accessed on-line: http://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/85/12/07-044388.pdf
Readers can also visit the website for the initiative at: http://peoples-uni.org/
A demonstration module on Maternal Mortality is available on http://moodle.cawd.net/course/view.php?id=2
The organizers advise that all comments and suggestions for improvement or additional resources will be appreciated.
Readers can also visit the website for the initiative at: http://peoples-uni.org/
A demonstration module on Maternal Mortality is available on http://moodle.cawd.net/course/view.php?id=2
The organizers advise that all comments and suggestions for improvement or additional resources will be appreciated.
PESHAWAR MUSEUM
Permanent Home to a World Class Gandaran Archeology Exhibition
REAL HEALTH NEWS
The Global Forum for Health Research and the WHO Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases sponsor a publication called Real Health News, a monthly web magazine about " action and research": http://www.realhealthnews.net./
NEW Innovation & Application WEBSITE
“Sharing Essential Knowledge with Health Researchers and Policy Makers”: http://www.tropika.net/
For a short and moving clip on gender and reproductive health:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otLHRMdBEvs
Source: Haroon Shuaib, Fellow, Leadership Development Program for Mobilizing Reproductive Health, Pakistan.
Source: Haroon Shuaib, Fellow, Leadership Development Program for Mobilizing Reproductive Health, Pakistan.
'happiest place on earth'
The happiest place on earth is the South Pacific nation of Vanuatu. The small island state, population 209,000, came out top in a happiness survey because its people are happy, live to nearly 70 and do little to damage the planet. The survey, compiled by the New Economics Foundation (NEF) and Friends of the Earth, indicates that although living standards in the West have improved dramatically over the past 50 years, it does not mean people are any happier. The NEF was set up in 1986 to question the agenda of the Group of Eight leading industrialized nations. The so-called 'Happy Planet Index' illustrates that people can live long, happy lives without consuming large amounts of the Earth's resources.
"People are generally happy here because they are very satisfied with very little," said Marke Lowen, of Vanuatu Online. "This is not a consumer-driven society. Life here is about community and family and goodwill to other people. It's a place where you don't worry too much."
Canada does not even make it into the top 100 of the index, which was based on life expectancy, happiness and consumption levels, rather than economic wealth indicators such as GDP. Canada languishes at 111, behind the UK (108) but ahead of the USA (150). Colombia is rated 2nd in the index, with Costa Rica 3rd and Dominica 4th. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is ranked a dismal 178, bottom of the heap. Russia is ranked 172nd, Japan 95th and Germany 81st.
Source: S Challands, CTV.ca News. http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20060712/happy_planet_060712/20060712?hub=TopStories
COMMENT: While this report is from 2006, it ranks among the best “good news” stories in years.
"People are generally happy here because they are very satisfied with very little," said Marke Lowen, of Vanuatu Online. "This is not a consumer-driven society. Life here is about community and family and goodwill to other people. It's a place where you don't worry too much."
Canada does not even make it into the top 100 of the index, which was based on life expectancy, happiness and consumption levels, rather than economic wealth indicators such as GDP. Canada languishes at 111, behind the UK (108) but ahead of the USA (150). Colombia is rated 2nd in the index, with Costa Rica 3rd and Dominica 4th. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is ranked a dismal 178, bottom of the heap. Russia is ranked 172nd, Japan 95th and Germany 81st.
Source: S Challands, CTV.ca News. http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20060712/happy_planet_060712/20060712?hub=TopStories
COMMENT: While this report is from 2006, it ranks among the best “good news” stories in years.
"A CLOSER WALK" - A film about AIDS in the world.
"What I would appeal to the whole world, I would say, 'Come down to Earth and face reality'... Know what's going on in the lives of other people. You have the access to everything, but think of that person from the beginning point, who has no access to medicine, who has no access to food, who has no access to a good life. Think of such people who are like so and I think we'll have a better world."
Source: Olivia Nantongo, from "A Closer Walk" http://www.acloserwalk.org/
Source: Olivia Nantongo, from "A Closer Walk" http://www.acloserwalk.org/
ARCTIC WARMING NARRATIVES
A Circumpolar Journey in the International Polar Year 2007-8
http://www.point-hope.com/index.php
WE SHARE OUR PLANET
Ship, Wildlife & Winter Scenes Photo Credits: David Nicholls http://www.pbase.com/nicintime
About Us
- Franklin White & Debra Nanan
- For biographies, vist our website.
A QUOTE FOR ALL SEASONS – applicable at all levels.
Justice delayed is justice denied.
William Gladstone.
British Statesman. 1809-98.
William Gladstone.
British Statesman. 1809-98.
News - CANADIANS THINK DISCRIMINATION AGAINST MINORITIES IS A PROBLEM
A new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid finds that most (54%) Canadians ‘strongly’ (17%) or ‘moderately’ (36%) agree that discrimination against minorities is a problem in Canada. However, fewer are of this opinion now than they were in 1993, when a similar study revealed that seven in ten (70%) agreed that such discrimination was a problem, while six in ten (60%) in 1998 agreed with that sentiment, showing a steady decline over the last 14 years.
For details: http://www.ipsos-na.com/news/pressrelease.cfm?id=3539
The Power of Literacy
“Literacy is a platform for democratization, and a vehicle for the promotion of cultural and national identity. Especially for girls and women, it is an agent of family health and nutrition. For everyone,... literacy is... a basic human right.... through which every man, woman and child can realize his or her full potential.”
Kofi Annan
investing in literacy
THIS is your World...
Interesting data on the world's population: what some of us have and what many do not! http://users.gazinter.net/melan/Warn/Warnenu.htm
Mechanical dinosaur
Can the world make the shift to renewable energy without threatening the food supply?
recommended reading
HOW OLD IS CANADA?
"How long have I known you, oh Canada?... a hundred years. And many many 'seelanum' more. And today, when you celebrate your hundred years, oh Canada, I am sad for all the Indian people throughout the land. For I have known you when your forests were mine; when they gave me my meat and my clothing. I have known you in your streams and rivers where your fish flashed and danced in the sun, where the waters said come, come and eat of my abundance. I have known you in the freedom of your winds. And my spirit, like the winds, once roamed your good lands........” Chief Dan George. On Canada’s Centennial Year 1967. http://thegoldweb.com/voices/chiefgeorge.htm
What Do Totem Poles Mean?
“Carved from mature cedar trees by the Native people of the Northwest Pacific coast (British Columbia, Canada and southern Alaska, USA), full size totem poles are outgrowths of the region's aboriginal art forms. Originally an important part of the Potlatch ceremony, a feast with deep meaning to coastal First Nations, totem poles were once carved and raised to represent a family-clan, its kinship system, its dignity, its accomplishments, it prestige, its adventures, its stories, its rights and prerogatives. A totem pole served, in essence, as the emblem of a family or clan and often as a reminder of its ancestry.” Source: http://www.nativeonline.com/totem_poles.htm Note: Totem poles were never objects of worship; this erroneous idea was propagated by Christian missionaries who urged converts to cease production and to destroy existing poles.
the world grows its food
Global Health Inequities
"It is not inevitable that there should be a spread of life expectancy of 48 years among countries,..... and 20 years or more within countries....." Professor Sir Michael Marmot [Bangkok Charter link above]
A Closing Inspiration
We shall not cease from exploration... And the end of all our exploring... Will be to arrive where we started... And know the place for the first time. TS ELIOT