A Group photo of participants of the regional conference on the humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons and nuclear-free-zone in Central Asia held on August 29, 2023. Credit: Jibek Joly TV Channel
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, Sep 7 2023 (IPS) – Exactly 32 years ago, on September 29, 1991, Kazakhstan, then part of the Soviet Union, made a historic decision that would alter its fate. On that day, Kazakhstan permanently closed the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, defying the central government in Moscow. This marked the start of Kazakhstan’s transformation from a nuclear-armed state, possessing the fourth-largest nuclear arsenal at the time, to a non-nuclear-weapon state. Kazakhstan’s audacious move to eliminate its nuclear weapons was rooted in a profound commitment to global disarmament, setting an inspiring precedent.
Eighteen years later, in 2009, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution, led by Kazakhstan, designating August 29 as the International Day Against Nuclear Tests. This day serves as a solemn reminder of the catastrophic consequences of nuclear weapons and underscores the urgent imperative for disarmament.
In a world where the threat of nuclear weapons being used again remains a grim reality, a pivotal question looms: Can we genuinely aspire to a world free of nuclear arms? To delve deeper into this pressing concern and comprehend the menace posed by nuclear weapons testing and deployment, we interviewed Karipbek Kuyukov and participants of the “Humanitarian Impact of Nuclear Weapons and the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone” regional conference. This conference, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan in partnership with the Center for International Security and Policy (CISP), Soka Gakkai International (SGI), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), took place in Astana, Kazakhstan to commemorate this year’s International Day Against Nuclear Tests.
Karipbek Kuyukov is an armless painter from Kazakhstan, and global anti–nuclear weapon testing & nonproliferation activist. Credit: Jibek Joly TV Channel
One of the most poignant moments during the conference came from Dmitriy Vesselov, a third-generation survivor of nuclear testing. He provided a heartfelt testimony about the profound human toll exacted by nuclear testings on his family and the broader community. The nuclear tests conducted at the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site over four decades unleashed explosions 2,500 times more potent than the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The repercussions of these tests have echoed through generations, inflicting severe health problems and untold suffering.
Kuyukov, a renowned Kazakh artist born without hands due to radiation exposure in his mother’s womb, has devoted his life to raising awareness about the horrors of nuclear testing. His powerful artwork, created using his lips or toes, depicts the survivors of nuclear tests and serves as a poignant tribute to those who perished. Kuyukov’s unwavering commitment reflects the indomitable human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Dmitriy Vesselov’s testimony shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by survivors. He candidly shared his struggles with health issues, including acromioclavicular dysostosis, a condition severely limiting his physical capabilities. Vesselov expressed his deep concern about the potential transmission of these health problems to future generations. Consequently, he has chosen not to have children. The conference underscored the imperative of averting the repetition of history by delving into the past tragedies inflicted by nuclear weapons testings.
Hirotsugu Terasaki, Director General of Peace and Global Issues of SGI, commenting on the event said “I believe that this regional conference is a new milestone, a starting point for representatives from five countries of Central Asia to discuss how we can advance the process toward a nuclear-weapon-free world, given the ever-increasing threat of nuclear weapons.”
Terasaki observed that the international community is actively deliberating Articles 6 and 7 of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), mandating state parties to provide support to victims and address environmental remediation. He accentuated Kazakhstan’s pivotal role as a co-chair of the working group central to these discussions.
Kazakhstan does provide special medical insurance and benefits to victims of nuclear tests. However, these benefits are predominantly extended to individuals officially certified as disabled or a family member of those who succumbed to radiation-related illnesses. Numerous victims, like Vesselov, who do not fall within these categories, remain ineligible for assistance.
Despite his daunting challenges, Mr. Vesselov maintains an unwavering sense of hope. He hopes that his testimony will serve as a stark reminder of the perils of nuclear weapons and awaken global consciousness regarding the dangers posed by even small tactical nuclear weapons and the specter of limited nuclear conflicts. Ultimately, his deepest aspiration, shared by all victims of nuclear weapons, is that the world will never bear witness to such a devastating tragedy again.
As Kazakhstan assumes its role as President-designate of the third Meeting of States Parties to the TPNW, it reaffirms its steadfast commitment to global peace and disarmament. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s resolute words resonate with the sentiment of a nation that has borne the scars of nuclear testing: “Such a tragedy should not happen again. Our country will unwaveringly uphold the principles of nuclear security.”
At the conference, member states of the Treaty of Semipalatinsk were encouraged to support Kazakhstan in this endeavor, and in its efforts to represent the Central Asian region’s contribution to nuclear disarmament, through attending the second Meeting of States Parties of the TPNW, at least as observers, which will take place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York between 27 November and 1 December this year, and by signing and ratifying the TPNW at the earliest opportunity.
In a world still grappling with the looming specter of nuclear devastation, Kazakhstan’s journey from a nuclear test site to a leading advocate for disarmament serves as a beacon of hope. Kazakhstan’s unwavering commitment to peace stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a nation that once bore the weight of nuclear tests and now champions a safer, more secure world for all.
Katsuhiro Asagiri is President of INPS Japan and Kunsaya Kurmet-Rakhimova is a reporter of Jibek Joly(Silk Way) TV Channel.
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres addresses the 22nd session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at the General Assembly Hall of the United Nations headquarters in New York City on 17 April 17 2023. Credit: Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images
NEW YORK, Sep 7 2023 (IPS) – This September, world leaders and public policy advocates from around the world will descend on New York for the UN General Assembly. Alongside conversations on peace and security, global development and climate change, progress – or the lack of it – on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is expected to take centre-stage. A major SDG Summit will be held on 18 and 19 September. The UN hopes that it will serve as a ‘rallying cry to recharge momentum for world leaders to come together to reflect on where we stand and resolve to do more’. But are the world’s leaders in a mood to uphold the UN’s purpose, and can the UN’s leadership rise to the occasion by resolutely addressing destructive behaviours?
Sadly, the world is facing an acute crisis of leadership. In far too many countries authoritarian leaders have seized power through a combination of populist political discourse, outright repression and military coups. Our findings on the CIVICUS Monitor – a participatory research platform that measures civic freedoms in every country – show that 85% of the world’s population live in places where serious attacks on basic fundamental freedoms to organise, speak out and protest are taking place. Respect for these freedoms is essential so that people and civil society organisations can have a say in inclusive decision making.
UN undermined
The UN Charter begins with the words, ‘We the Peoples’ and a resolve to save future generations from the scourge of war. Its ideals, such as respect for human rights and the dignity of every person, are being eroded by powerful states that have introduced slippery concepts such as ‘cultural relativism’ and ‘development with national characteristics’. The consensus to seek solutions to global challenges through the UN appears to be at breaking point. As we speak hostilities are raging in Ukraine, Sudan, the Occupied Palestinian Territories and the Sahel region even as millions of people reel from the negative consequences of protracted conflicts and oppression in Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Myanmar, Syria and Yemen, to name a few.
Article 1 of the UN Charter underscores the UN’s role in harmonising the actions of nations towards the attainment of common ends, including in relation to solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural or humanitarian character, and to promote respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. But in a time of eye-watering inequality within and between countries, big economic decisions affecting people and the planet are not being made collectively at the UN but by the G20 group of the world’s biggest economies, whose leaders are meeting prior to the UN General Assembly to make economic decisions with ramifications for all countries.
Economic and development cooperation policies for a large chunk of the globe are also determined through the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Established in 1961, the OECD comprises 38 countries with a stated commitment to democratic values and market-based economics. Civil society has worked hard to get the OECD to take action on issues such as fair taxation, social protection and civic space.
More recently, the BRICS – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – grouping of countries that together account for 40 per cent of the world’s population and a quarter of the globe’s GDP are seeking to emerge as a counterweight to the OECD. However, concerns remain about the values that bind this alliance. At its recent summit in South Africa six new members were admitted, four of which – Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates – are ruled by totalitarian governments with a history of repressing civil society voices. This comes on top of concerns that China and Russia are driving the BRICS agenda despite credible allegations that their governments have committed crimes against humanity.
The challenge before the UN’s leadership this September is to find ways to bring coherence and harmony to decisions being taken at the G20, OECD, BRICS and elsewhere to serve the best interests of excluded people around the globe. A focus on the SDGs by emphasising their universality and indivisibility can provide some hope.
SDGs off-track
The adoption of the SDGs in 2015 was a groundbreaking moment. The 17 ambitious SDGs and their 169 targets have been called the greatest ever human endeavour to create peaceful, just, equal and sustainable societies. The SDGs include promises to tackle inequality and corruption, promote women’s equality and empowerment, support inclusive and participatory governance, ensure sustainable consumption and production, usher in rule of law and catalyse effective partnerships for development.
But seven years on the SDGs are seriously off-track. The UN Secretary-General’s SDG progress report released this July laments that the promise to ‘leave no one behind’ is in peril. As many as 30 per cent of the targets are reported to have seen no progress or worse to have regressed below their 2015 baseline. The climate crisis, war in Ukraine, a weak global economy and the COVID-19 pandemic are cited as some of the reasons why progress is lacking.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is pushing for an SDG stimulus plan to scale up financing to the tune of US$500 billion. It remains to be seen how successful this would be given the self-interest being pursued by major powers that have the financial resources to contribute. Moreover, without civic participation and guarantees for enabled civil societies, there is a high probability that SDG stimulus funds could be misused by authoritarian governments to reinforce networks of patronage and to shore up repressive state apparatuses.
Also up for discussion at the UN General Assembly will be plans for a major Summit for the Future in 2024 to deliver the UN Secretary-General’s Our Common Agenda report, released in 2021. This proposes among other things the appointment of a UN Envoy for Future Generations, an upgrade of key UN institutions, digital cooperation across the board and boosting partnerships to drive access and inclusion at the UN. But with multilateralism stymied by hostility and divisions among big powers on the implementation of internationally agreed norms, achieving progress on this agenda implies a huge responsibility on the UN’s leadership to forge consensus while speaking truth to power and challenging damaging behaviours by states and their leaders.
The UN’s leadership have found its voice on the issue of climate change. Secretary-General Guterres has been remarkably candid about the negative impacts of the fossil fuel industry and its supporters. This July, he warned that ‘The era of global warming has ended; the era of global boiling has arrived’. Similar candour is required to call out the twin plagues of authoritarianism and populism which are causing immense suffering to people around the world while exacerbating conflict, inequality and climate change.
The formation of the UN as the conscience of the world in 1945 was an exercise in optimism and altruism. This September that spirit will be needed more than ever to start creating a better world for all, and to prove the UN’s value.
Mandeep S. Tiwana is chief officer for evidence and engagement + representative to the UN headquarters at CIVICUS, the global civil society alliance.
The Essence of Pan-Africanism: A Historical Perspective and Contemporary Relevance
7 September 2023
Spread the love
By Divine Mafa | Pan-Africanism is a dynamic ideology rooted in the historical experiences of the African diaspora. It encompasses a broad spectrum of political, social, and cultural movements aimed at uniting people of African descent worldwide. This essay delves into the history of Pan-Africanism, its pivotal figures, and its contemporary significance, with a focus on dispelling misconceptions.
Historical Context:
Pan-Africanism emerged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time when the African continent was enduring colonization and exploitation by European powers. The African diaspora, particularly those residing in the Americas and the Caribbean, were deeply affected by the horrors of slavery. This shared history of oppression and exploitation fostered a sense of unity among people of African descent.
Key Figures in Pan-Africanism:
1. **Marcus Garvey:** Marcus Garvey is often considered one of the early pioneers of Pan-Africanism. He founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and advocated for the return of Africans to their ancestral homeland. Garvey’s “Back to Africa” movement inspired a generation.
2. **W.E.B. Du Bois:** Du Bois, a prominent African-American scholar and civil rights activist, played a significant role in Pan-Africanism. He organized the Pan-African Congresses in the early 20th century, providing a platform for discussions on African self-determination and the end of colonialism.
3. **Kwame Nkrumah:** Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president, was a fervent Pan-Africanist. He believed that African nations should unite to achieve true independence from colonial powers. His leadership in the decolonization of Africa set a precedent for the continent.
Contemporary Relevance:
In the present day, Pan-Africanism remains highly relevant. While colonialism in Africa has ended, the legacy of exploitation and inequality persists. The movement serves as a reminder that people of African descent, regardless of their geographic location, share a common history and must support one another.
Moreover, Pan-Africanism aligns with the pursuit of democracy and human rights. Contrary to misconceptions, it is not an ideology of hate but one of solidarity and empowerment. People of African descent in the United States, for instance, have made significant strides in politics, education, and culture. The presence of Black Americans in leadership positions demonstrates the progress achieved over time.
Conclusion:
Pan-Africanism is a powerful ideology rooted in the shared history of people of African descent. It has evolved from its historical roots to become a force for unity, empowerment, and the pursuit of justice in today’s world. By dispelling misconceptions and embracing the principles of solidarity, Pan-Africanism can continue to inspire positive change for the benefit of all.
WaMwari Devine Chaminuka Mafa ZEM AFRICA FOUNDING FATHER
The 10 year ZEM plan
**ZEM Unified Plan for One African Union**
**Vision:** To unite the SADC region under a common goal of economic progress, political transformation, and regional cooperation, ultimately contributing to the creation of a more prosperous and united Africa.
**Why It Matters:**
1. **Economic Prosperity:** By uniting the SADC region under the banner of ZEM, we aim to harness the economic potential of Southern Africa. A unified approach can facilitate regional trade, investment, and economic development, leading to increased prosperity for all.
2. **Political Transformation:** ZEM’s commitment to political transformation addresses the challenges of fair and transparent governance. This is crucial to achieving stability and fostering trust among citizens and international partners.
3. **Regional Cooperation:** In an interconnected world, regional cooperation is vital. ZEM’s unified plan promotes cooperation among SADC countries, allowing us to tackle shared challenges such as climate change, security, and healthcare more effectively.
**Phase 1: Formation of ZEM Divisions in SADC Countries**
**Leadership Selection:** ZEM leaders are carefully chosen for their dedication to our vision. They are the driving force behind our mission in each country.
**Formation of ZEM Divisions:** The establishment of ZEM divisions in each SADC country ensures that local issues are addressed while working towards common regional objectives.
**Membership Recruitment:** Our success depends on the commitment of our members. We seek individuals who share our vision for a better Africa.
**Phase 2: Coordination and Collaboration**
**Regular Meetings:** Open channels of communication among ZEM divisions promote collaboration, the exchange of ideas, and strategic alignment.
**Shared Resources:** By pooling resources, we amplify our impact. Knowledge sharing, financial support, and expertise are shared among divisions.
**Joint Initiatives:** Collective efforts can address regional challenges more effectively. ZEM divisions identify common issues and work together to find solutions.
**Phase 3: Advocacy and Political Engagement**
**Policy Development:** ZEM takes a proactive stance on policy development. Our shared regional agenda focuses on economic integration, trade, currency unification, and harmonized policies.
**Advocacy Campaigns:** Through advocacy campaigns, we seek to influence policy decisions within SADC member states. Our goal is to promote policies that align with ZEM’s vision.
**Phase 4: Grassroots Mobilization and Outreach**
**Youth Empowerment:** Engaging the youth ensures that the next generation is invested in Africa’s future. ZEM provides opportunities for leadership and involvement.
**Public Awareness:** Raising public awareness about our mission is crucial. Through extensive awareness campaigns, we aim to garner support and inspire change.
**Phase 5: Engagement with International Partners**
**International Alliances:** ZEM seeks partnerships with organizations, governments, and entities that share our objectives. We are not alone in our pursuit of a better Africa.
**Phase 6: Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation**
**Assessment:** Ongoing assessment helps us measure progress and identify areas for improvement.
**Adaptation:** Flexibility is key. ZEM is prepared to adapt strategies to address changing political, economic, and social dynamics.
**Phase 7: Transition to an African Union**
**SADC Integration:** ZEM’s vision extends beyond the SADC region. We seek to collaborate with other regional movements to promote unity and integration across the African continent.
**Pan-African Vision:** The ultimate goal is a united African Union, achieved through collaboration with like-minded organizations and movements across the continent.
The ZEM Unified Plan for One African Union is not just a blueprint; it’s a testament to our commitment to a brighter future for Africa. By working together, we can overcome the challenges that have hindered our progress and pave the way for a united, prosperous, and sovereign Africa.
Join us in this historic endeavor, and together, we will make a difference for our beloved continent.
Our Planned branches across Africa.
ZIMBABWE ECONOMIC MOVEMENT FOR AFRICA INC.
1. South Africa economic movement 2. Angola economic movement 3. Botswana economic movement 4. Comoros 5. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) economic movement 6. Eswatini economic movement 7. Lesotho economic movement 8. Madagascar economic movement 9. Malawi economic movement 10. Mauritius economic movement 11. Mozambique economic movement 12. Namibia economic movement 13. Seychelles economic movement 14. Tanzania economic movement 15. Zambia economic movement 16. Zimbabwe economic movement
We are open offices in the region.now write the zem plan for one African union. FOUNDER – Wamwari Devine Mwana +19015459000 USA https://chat.whatsapp.com/FNUUsDel2OHGJ2dHpIv5w5
The 10 year ZEM plan
**ZEM Unified Plan for One African Union**
**Vision:** To unite the SADC region under a common goal of economic progress, political transformation, and regional cooperation, ultimately contributing to the creation of a more prosperous and united Africa.
**Why It Matters:**
1. **Economic Prosperity:** By uniting the SADC region under the banner of ZEM, we aim to harness the economic potential of Southern Africa. A unified approach can facilitate regional trade, investment, and economic development, leading to increased prosperity for all.
2. **Political Transformation:** ZEM’s commitment to political transformation addresses the challenges of fair and transparent governance. This is crucial to achieving stability and fostering trust among citizens and international partners.
3. **Regional Cooperation:** In an interconnected world, regional cooperation is vital. ZEM’s unified plan promotes cooperation among SADC countries, allowing us to tackle shared challenges such as climate change, security, and healthcare more effectively.
**Phase 1: Formation of ZEM Divisions in SADC Countries**
**Leadership Selection:** ZEM leaders are carefully chosen for their dedication to our vision. They are the driving force behind our mission in each country.
**Formation of ZEM Divisions:** The establishment of ZEM divisions in each SADC country ensures that local issues are addressed while working towards common regional objectives.
**Membership Recruitment:** Our success depends on the commitment of our members. We seek individuals who share our vision for a better Africa.
**Phase 2: Coordination and Collaboration**
**Regular Meetings:** Open channels of communication among ZEM divisions promote collaboration, the exchange of ideas, and strategic alignment.
**Shared Resources:** By pooling resources, we amplify our impact. Knowledge sharing, financial support, and expertise are shared among divisions.
**Joint Initiatives:** Collective efforts can address regional challenges more effectively. ZEM divisions identify common issues and work together to find solutions.
**Phase 3: Advocacy and Political Engagement**
**Policy Development:** ZEM takes a proactive stance on policy development. Our shared regional agenda focuses on economic integration, trade, currency unification, and harmonized policies.
**Advocacy Campaigns:** Through advocacy campaigns, we seek to influence policy decisions within SADC member states. Our goal is to promote policies that align with ZEM’s vision.
**Phase 4: Grassroots Mobilization and Outreach**
**Youth Empowerment:** Engaging the youth ensures that the next generation is invested in Africa’s future. ZEM provides opportunities for leadership and involvement.
**Public Awareness:** Raising public awareness about our mission is crucial. Through extensive awareness campaigns, we aim to garner support and inspire change.
**Phase 5: Engagement with International Partners**
**International Alliances:** ZEM seeks partnerships with organizations, governments, and entities that share our objectives. We are not alone in our pursuit of a better Africa.
**Phase 6: Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation**
**Assessment:** Ongoing assessment helps us measure progress and identify areas for improvement.
**Adaptation:** Flexibility is key. ZEM is prepared to adapt strategies to address changing political, economic, and social dynamics.
**Phase 7: Transition to an African Union**
**SADC Integration:** ZEM’s vision extends beyond the SADC region. We seek to collaborate with other regional movements to promote unity and integration across the African continent.
**Pan-African Vision:** The ultimate goal is a united African Union, achieved through collaboration with like-minded organizations and movements across the continent.
The ZEM Unified Plan for One African Union is not just a blueprint; it’s a testament to our commitment to a brighter future for Africa. By working together, we can overcome the challenges that have hindered our progress and pave the way for a united, prosperous, and sovereign Africa.
Join us in this historic endeavor, and together, we will make a difference for our beloved continent.
Our Planned branches across Africa.
ZIMBABWE ECONOMIC MOVEMENT FOR AFRICA INC.
1. South Africa economic movement 2. Angola economic movement 3. Botswana economic movement 4. Comoros 5. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) economic movement 6. Eswatini economic movement 7. Lesotho economic movement 8. Madagascar economic movement 9. Malawi economic movement 10. Mauritius economic movement 11. Mozambique economic movement 12. Namibia economic movement 13. Seychelles economic movement 14. Tanzania economic movement 15. Zambia economic movement 16. Zimbabwe economic movement
We are open offices in the region.now write the zem plan for one African union. FOUNDER – Wamwari Devine Mwana +19015459000 USA https://chat.whatsapp.com/FNUUsDel2OHGJ2dHpIv5w5