The Sahara Desert saw rare rainfall, turning sand dunes into rivers and lakes, prompting scientists to study environmental, global impacts. In a surprising turn of events, the Sahara Desert — one of the driest regions on Earth — recently experienced unprecedented rainfall, transforming its iconic sand dunes into temporary rivers and lakes. This unexpected phenomenon has left scientists and environmentalists examining its implications for the environment, local ecosystems, and potentially even global weather patterns.

In September 2024, a rare extratropical cyclone brought heavy rainfall across parts of the Sahara Desert, impacting Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya. This event resulted in flooding and the formation of water bodies in regions that typically receive minimal rainfall, with some areas recording up to five times their average September precipitation (NASA Earth Observatory). The aftermath was nothing short of extraordinary, with temporary lakes filling dry riverbeds and previously barren landscapes showing signs of vegetation.

This surge of moisture had an immediate impact: shrubs, grasses, and even small trees began to sprout in low-lying areas that hadn’t seen greenery for decades. This “greening” of the Sahara, albeit temporary, highlights the environment’s rapid response to sudden shifts in climate conditions (ABC News).

This unusual rainfall was driven by changes in the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) — a region near the equator where trade winds converge, creating rain belts. A northward shift of the ITCZ brought wet weather conditions to the Sahara, a phenomenon that may become more frequent as climate patterns continue to shift globally. The ITCZ shift not only affects rainfall in the Sahara but also has implications for weather systems around the globe, including the Atlantic hurricane season. Researchers speculate that this shift might be linked to a relatively calm hurricane season in the Atlantic, indicating the Sahara’s unexpected rainfall could influence other weather phenomena across the world (Live Science).

With climate change leading to more extreme and unpredictable weather patterns, some scientists wonder if these rains could signal a new era for the Sahara. Will the Sahara experience recurring rain events that could lead to even more frequent flooding? According to researchers, the probability of future rains in the Sahara has increased due to changing atmospheric conditions and global warming trends. While it’s unlikely that the Sahara will transform into a lush environment soon, repeated rain events could bring about more substantial and lasting changes to its ecosystems over time (Geographical Magazine).

While the immediate effect of the rainfall is a temporary greening of the Sahara, the long-term environmental consequences are complex and multifaceted. Water can lead to short-term bursts of plant and animal life, providing new habitats for migratory birds, insects, and other species that venture into the region. However, these brief changes may not sustain long-term shifts in the Sahara’s ecology, as desert ecosystems are typically resilient to short-lived weather events.

Yet, there is a deeper question at play: Could recurring rain events eventually bring about permanent changes in the Sahara? Some researchers suggest that sustained increases in rainfall over time could lead to more extensive vegetation and even create pockets of new ecosystems in the desert. Such a transformation would impact local communities, as newly formed oases could offer agricultural opportunities in an area previously deemed uninhabitable (AP News).

The Sahara is more than just an iconic desert; it plays a crucial role in the global climate system. Dust from the Sahara travels across oceans, fertilizing soils in places as far as the Amazon rainforest. Changes in the Sahara’s climate, including increased rainfall, could influence the amount of dust it produces, thereby affecting ecosystems thousands of miles away.

Moreover, shifts in the ITCZ could lead to more extreme weather patterns not just in Africa but globally. A wetter Sahara could contribute to fluctuations in the global climate system, potentially altering rainfall patterns in surrounding regions and affecting global weather phenomena such as monsoon cycles (The Times).

The unexpected rain in the Sahara serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of Earth’s climate systems. While the immediate impacts of this rare rainfall event are visible in the form of temporary rivers and newfound vegetation, scientists are closely watching for patterns that could indicate more permanent changes. With climate change likely to increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the Sahara’s “greening” could become a more common occurrence. This shift may force us to reconsider our assumptions about deserts, ecosystems, and the boundaries between climate zones.

The recent rains in the Sahara are a striking example of how dynamic Earth’s climate truly is. While it’s too early to determine if the Sahara will continue to green, this event underscores the need for continued research and monitoring. Understanding how and why these shifts occur is essential, not only for regional ecological stability but also for predicting potential impacts on a global scale.

BY ZEYNEP VEISOGLU

References:

1. NASA Earth Observatory, “A Deluge for the Sahara,” September 2024. https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153320/a-deluge-for-the-sahara
2. ABC News, “Parts of the Sahara Desert are turning green amid an influx of heavy rainfall” September 2024. https://abcnews.go.com/International/parts-sahara-desert-turning-green-amid-influx-heavy/story?id=113927214
3. Live Science, “Sahara desert hit by extraordinary rainfall event that could mess with this year’s hurricane season” October 2024. https://www.livescience.com/planet-earth/weather/rain-in-the-sahara-could-be-connected-to-a-calmer-atlantic-hurricane-season
4. Geographical Magazine, “Will the Sahara Flood Again?” October 2024. https://geographical.co.uk/science-environment/geo-explainer-will-the-sahara-flood-again
5. AP News, “Water gushes through sand dunes after a rare rainfall in the Sahara desert” October 2024. https://apnews.com/article/sahara-flooding-oasis-rain-morocco-2b6c28d2487a0ef370aff60775d0245d
6. The Times, “Why the Sahara is Unseasonably Wet,” October 2024. https://www.thetimes.com/uk/obituaries/article/why-the-sahara-is-unseasonably-wet-kmsh8vxlp

 

Since the Taliban’s return, Afghan women face severe ‘gender apartheid’, highlighting urgent international support and accountability needs for their oppression. The situation for women and girls in Afghanistan has reached a critical juncture, particularly following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. The term “gender apartheid” has resurfaced to describe the severe oppression faced by women under the current regime. This blog aims to shed light on Afghan women’s challenges and the urgent need for international support and accountability.

Afghan women are demonstrating remarkable courage and resilience in the face of gender oppression. Their determination, persistence, and creativity shine through despite the high costs they bear, including violence and sexual violence. However, it is essential to recognize that not all women experience oppression in the same way. Factors such as ethnicity, religion, disability, and family status can exacerbate discrimination. For instance, women from ethnic minorities like the Hazara, Uzbek, Turkmen, Sikhs, and Hindus, as well as those with disabilities or heading households (over 200,000 households in Afghanistan are headed by women), face even greater challenges. Since the fall of Kabul, Afghanistan has been in a dire human rights crisis. Over the past three years, the Taliban have enforced brutal policies. Just days ago, 14 Hazara young men were killed viciously in a remote area of Bankridi province.

The ongoing crisis extends beyond immediate threats to women’s rights; it poses a long-term risk to the education of future generations. We know women and girls above the sixth grade are denied education. They face severe restrictions in employment and are not allowed to play sports. Movement is also extremely difficult for them, requiring a dull face-covering hijab. Essentially, many women are imprisoned in their own homes, and that is how they describe it. The lack of positive female role models and the deterioration of education for both boys and girls could lead to a poorly educated and radicalized population. This situation threatens not only Afghanistan but potentially extends beyond its borders, impacting global stability.

After August 2021, there was talk of a “Taliban 2.0”, a supposedly changed, reformed and more acceptable Taliban. However, the reality has clarified that Taliban 2.0 is a myth. The Taliban’s current position of strength complicates efforts to advocate for women’s rights. While some Taliban leaders claim to support girls’ education, the reality on the ground tells a different story. The divisions within the Taliban movement create a complex dynamic that makes it challenging to shift their stance on women’s education and rights. Engaging with the Taliban requires a nuanced approach that considers these internal divisions while advocating for the rights of women and girls.

Another element to consider is Afghanistan’s status as a party to the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The ICC focuses on individual criminal justice, but CEDAW allows for state-to-state action. This means one or more states could sue Afghanistan for violations following an arbitration process. This is another avenue in international law to address the situation.

The return of the Taliban has severely restricted independent journalism in Afghanistan, particularly for female journalists. Most experienced and senior journalists have left the country, and the few media outlets still operating are entirely under Taliban control. As a result, the people of Afghanistan are deprived of hearing news that directly impacts their lives. For example, people in Kabul and other provinces are not informed about events like the attacks on the group of prosecutors in Darul Aman because journalists are not allowed to cover these incidents under Taliban rule. The dangers they face are compounded by gender discrimination, making their work even more perilous. Despite these challenges, courageous female journalists continue to report on the dire situation, highlighting the need for international attention and support.

The violations of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan have been so extreme, widespread, and systematic that Amnesty International and the International Commission of Jurists released a report last year stating that these violations amount to the crime of gender persecution and should be investigated as such. “Gender apartheid” should be recognized as a crime against humanity to capture the severity of the situation in Afghanistan. While there is currently no law specifically addressing gender apartheid, discussions are underway at the UN in New York to create a new international human rights treaty that could criminalize such practices, though it will take time. In the meantime, the situation in Afghanistan is ripe for investigation and prosecution of gender persecution under existing international law.

A common question is whether recognizing the Taliban as the de facto authority means they are obligated to adhere to international treaties. The UN’s position is that the Taliban are the de facto authorities, not the official government. However, as de facto authorities controlling Afghanistan, they are still liable for the treaties to which Afghanistan is a party, including human rights treaties like the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. This issue is legally complex, but it’s essential. By being de facto authorities, the Taliban are technically obliged to follow these treaties. Theoretically, they could claim they no longer wish to be a party to these treaties if it doesn’t benefit them, but that remains to be debated.

So, what will work? What won’t? Normative approaches are unlikely to change the Taliban’s mindset. They believe what they believe, and it differs vastly from our beliefs. It’s wrong, but that’s the situation. We need to find a way to mobilize the international community to make the Taliban confront choices they don’t wish to face. It’s a straightforward concept but incredibly difficult to implement. The burden of these choices falls not on the Taliban but on the population. The plight of women and girls in Afghanistan is a pressing human rights issue that demands our attention and action. We must listen to Afghan voices, particularly women, and create platforms for them to engage in dialogue about their rights and needs. The time for accountability and meaningful support is now. Together, we can advocate for a future where Afghan women and girls can live free from oppression and fear.

We need to learn from the fundamental failure of the 20-year campaign in Afghanistan. A report was published by members of the Republican Party in the US last week, attributing blame to President Biden and Kamala Harris. However, the reality is far more complex. We failed for 20 years to create the conditions for a US-led military withdrawal, but they withdrew regardless. What does this tell us? Unless there is pluralistic severe governance in Afghanistan capable of managing the country to benefit all its citizens to make meaningful progress. We are now in a weaker position than before August 2021 due to mistakes made over two decades. Join us in raising awareness about the gender crisis in Afghanistan. Share this blog, engage in discussion, and support organizations working to protect the rights of Afghan women and girls. Together, we can make a difference.

BY ROJIN ERDAL 

 

The Lake District pollution crisis highlights the need for stricter regulations, accountability to protect environmental, citizens’ rights to clean water. The Lake District, one of the UK’s most cherished natural landscapes, is facing an environmental crisis. In recent years, the pristine waters of Lake Windermere and other local lakes have been marred by illegal sewage discharges, threatening the ecosystem, public health, and the rights of local communities and visitors to a clean, safe environment.

The illegal sewage dumping in the Lake District strikes at the base of environmental rights. Polluted waters affect the local environment and public health, recreation, and the enjoyment of one of the UK’s most iconic natural treasures.

Under UK law, water companies can discharge sewage into natural water bodies only under controlled circumstances, such as during heavy rainfall when the system could overflow. However, investigations have revealed that these permissions have been flagrantly disregarded. In Windermere alone, United Utilities reportedly released between 143 million and 286 million litres of untreated sewage into the lake from 2021 to 2023, leading to a cascade of environmental impacts (The Telegraph, 2024).

The consequences of sewage pollution are severe. Raw sewage introduces high levels of phosphates and other pollutants into the water, leading to harmful algal blooms. These blooms deplete oxygen levels in the water, damaging fish populations and disrupting the lake’s ecosystem. Additionally, some algae produce toxins that are hazardous to both wildlife and human health, further undermining the integrity of the Lake District (BBC News, 2024).

Pollution in the Lake District is a reminder that environmental degradation has ripple effects beyond water quality alone. Polluted water impacts biodiversity, with native fish, birds, and mammals losing habitat and food sources. The tourism industry, a cornerstone of the local economy, is also at risk as visitors become increasingly wary of health and environmental risks associated with the lakes (Environment Agency Blog, 2024).

The recent sewage dumping incidents in the Lake District have sparked public outcry, leading to protests and demands for accountability. Environmental campaigners, including high-profile advocates, have gathered to demand stricter enforcement of regulations. In response, the government has committed £11 million from fines imposed on water companies to establish a Water Restoration Fund aimed at addressing pollution issues (Financial Times, 2024).

Yet, while this fund is a step in the right direction, many environmental groups argue it is insufficient to address the extensive and systemic nature of water pollution in the UK. Protecting the Lake District and other natural areas requires comprehensive regulatory changes, increased transparency from water companies, and an unwavering commitment to the environmental rights of all citizens.

The Lake District pollution crisis is a stark reminder of the importance of environmental rights and the need to hold those responsible accountable. Besides the violated environmental rights this situation violates the right to clean water and a safe, healthy environment for the citizens. By enforcing stricter regulations, supporting environmental organizations, and demanding transparency and responsibility from water companies, we can protect these precious natural resources for generations to come. The fight against illegal sewage dumping in the Lake District is about more than just pollution – it’s about safeguarding our right to a healthy environment, protecting biodiversity, and preserving our shared natural heritage. The time to act is now, for the Lake District and every community facing the impacts of environmental degradation.

BY ZEYNEP VEISOGLU 

 

References:

1. The Telegraph, “Millions of litres of sewage dumped illegally in Lake Windemere” October 2024. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/10/17/lake-windemere-lake-district-sewage-dumped/
2. BBC News, “Untreated sewage illegally pumped into Windermere” February 2024. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cv266nqq48xo
3. Environment Agency Blog, “Efforts to Reduce Pollution in Windermere,” May 2024. https://environmentagency.blog.gov.uk/2024/05/24/environment-agency-explains-that-pollution-in-windermere-is-reducing-but-more-needs-to-be-done-to-tackle-all-sources-of-pollution-not-just-sewage/
4. Financial Times, “UK seeks to quell public anger on sewage with £11mn restoration fund” April 2024. https://www.ft.com/content/a92eba77-ccd5-4567-a7c6-43ef7aa19e84

PM Starmer, abandoned the plan to fly asylum seekers to Rwanda. The scheme faced legal challenges and was deemed ineffective. Britain’s new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, announced on Saturday that he would cancel a plan to fly thousands of asylum seekers from Britain to Rwanda. This plan, originally introduced by the Conservative government in 2022, aimed to stop asylum seekers from arriving on small boats by sending them to the East African nation. However, the plan faced extensive legal challenges, preventing any asylum seekers from being sent to Rwanda.

In his first press conference as prime minister, Starmer explained that the Rwanda policy would be abandoned because it would have only affected about 1% of asylum seekers and failed to serve as an effective deterrent. He stated, “The Rwanda scheme was dead and buried before it started. It’s never been a deterrent. I’m not prepared to continue with gimmicks that don’t act as a deterrent.”

The UK Supreme Court had declared the policy unlawful in November 2023, citing concerns that Rwanda could not be considered a safe third country. This led to the UK government signing a new treaty with Rwanda and passing new legislation to override the court’s decision. However, the legality of these actions was being challenged by charities and unions in the courts.

The British government had already invested hundreds of millions of pounds in Rwanda to set up accommodation and hire additional officials to process asylum seekers, funds that cannot be recovered. On July 8, Rwanda responded to the UK’s intention to end the Migration and Economic Development Partnership Agreement, stating it was “a problem of the UK, not Rwanda.”

Sonya Sceats, CEO of Freedom from Torture, one of the many organizations and charities that have campaigned to stop the Rwanda plan, welcomed Starmer’s announcement on Saturday. “We applaud Keir Starmer for moving immediately to close the door on this shameful scheme that played politics with the lives of people fleeing torture and persecution,” she said.

Earlier in the day, Agnes Callamard, Secretary-General of Amnesty International, had called on the new Labour government to follow through on its campaign promise to scrap the Rwanda pact.

“Our asylum system must be made to focus on delivering as fairly and efficiently as possible the security and certainty to which every refugee is entitled, however they may arrive,” Callamard wrote in a social media post.

She added that this is “just as demanded by our international obligations, the rule of law, and basic respect for every human.”

BY BURAK BATUHAN KARAKUS

Human Rights Solidarity (HRS) organised a remarkable and meaningful event on the occasion of ‘Refugee Week’ celebrated between 17-23 June. HRS volunteers exhibited the cartoons titled ‘Humanity Cartoons’ about the problems and rights violations of refugees at symbolic places in London, on 20 June.

The 15 works in the travelling exhibition were selected among 750 cartoons participating in the International Migration Cartoon Competition, which was organised for the third time this year. The cartoons dramatically criticise or make suggestions on issues such as ‘migration, asylum and refugees’, which have become one of the main agenda items of the world.

The first place where HRS volunteers exhibited the cartoons was the famous iconic square Piccadilly Circus. The works were then exhibited in Trafalgar Square, followed by near the Prime Minister’s Office (Number 10), Parliament Square, Westminster Bridge and in front of the London Eye.

HRS volunteers also carried banners emphasising the problems of refugees such as ‘Refugees welcome’, ‘They need a home, like us’, ‘Everyone deserves to live in safety’. A cartoon competition and leaflets with information about refugee rights were handed out to people who had been attentively viewing the exhibition.

The fact that the event took place at a time when the UK government is planning to send refugees to the African country of Rwanda was also seen as meaningful by visitors to the exhibition.

Apart from London, Humanity Cartoons was also exhibited in Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield, Hull City and Lancaster. The exhibition held at St Maary’s Haritage Centre, one of the historical places of Newcastle, was open for 3 days. On 20 June, representatives from other organisations working on refugee issues attended the cocktail reception. Dr Neslihan Aksoy gave a speech on behalf of HRS, while Rebecca Bangura from Comfrey Project and Sara Muzaffer from Peace of Mind spoke.

The competition was held for the third time

The 3rd International Migration Cartoons Competition was organised by the UK registered charities HRS, Time to Help UK and Dialogue Society. This year, 388 artists from many countries of the world participated in the ‘Humanity Cartoons Competition’ with the theme ‘Our Home’ with a total of 750 works. After the preliminary selection by fine arts experts, 35 works were left to the selection of the main jury.

The jury consisting of cartoon artists Gustavo Fernando (Mexico), Ali Miraee (Iran) and Luc Descheemaeker (Belgium) selected the first 5 works. The artists who drew these cartoons were awarded a total of 3 thousand dollars. In addition to the first 5 works, 35 cartoons that passed the preliminary selection are planned to be exhibited in different countries and cities throughout the year after the Refugee Week.

The works reveal the difficult journey of asylum seekers who have to leave their countries due to war, persecution or political oppression, their search for a safe place and shelter, the troubles they experience and the rights violations they are exposed to in an artistic language.

The top 5 artists and their countries are as follows:

1. Mohammad Raei – Iran
2. Alireza Pakdel – Iran
3. Cenk Alparslan – Turkey
4. Rucke Souza – Brazil
5. Didie Sri Widiyanto – Indonesia

‘Kimse Yok Mu’ organised the first competition

The competition was first organised in 2016 by the Turkey-based humanitarian aid organisation ‘Kimse Yok Mu’. However, following the coup attempt on 15 July that year, ‘Kimse Yok Mu’, like hundreds of other organisations, was unlawfully shut down by a Decree Law (KHK).

That year, the winning works were not even allowed to be exhibited in Turkey. The selected works could only be exhibited in Athens, Greece, in April 2016. Subsequently, the organisation’s director and many of its staff became refugees. HRS and Time to Help UK decided to continue the competition 7 years later and organised the second edition in 2023 and the third edition this year.

Humanity Cartoons Addresses:
Website: www.humanitycartoons.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/humanitycartoon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/humanitycartoon

 

On International Day, June 19th, we aim for a world without sexual violence in conflict, ensuring everyone’s dignity and safety. “Wartime sexual violence is one of history’s greatest silences and one of today’s most extreme atrocities…It is perhaps more dangerous to be a woman than a soldier in an armed conflict.” [1]

Throughout history, rape has been used in conflicts as a tool of psychological warfare to punish, intimidate, and devastate entire communities. According to Inge Skjelsbæk, a professor at PRIO, the conversation has evolved from viewing rape as something that “inevitably happens in war because men are men,” to acknowledging that “rape is a clear war strategy and a war crime that threatens international peace and security.”[2]

Sexual Violence was condemned as a tactic of war and an impediment to peacebuilding in 2008 by the UN Security Council. Unfortunately, rape continues to be widespread and prevalent in armed conflicts, situations of violence, and detention settings. It manifests in diverse contexts and results in severe humanitarian consequences. [3]

The data available reveal alarming rates of rape during and after conflicts: during the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, between 250,000 and 500,000 women and girls were raped; over 60,000 were raped in the Sierra Leone civil war; between 20,000 and 50,000 in the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina; and at least 200,000 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since 1996. Although these figures are shocking, they likely represent serious underestimates, as the majority of victims do not report these crimes to authorities. [1]

Sexual violence amidst armed conflict manifests through various motives and scenarios. It may be wielded as a tool of warfare strategy, as a tacitly condoned practice, or opportunistically driven by personal motivations. [3]

Kirthi Jayakumar, a legal researcher and lawyer, in her blog, delves into the psychological reasons behind sexual violence in conflict. “Rape and sexual violence at the micro level can be a product of lustful intentions, mental disorders or depravity, as criminology offers. However, at the macro level – where the cases are not individual instances, but a collective of several individual instances that happen at dizzying speed, it is about dominance.”[4]

In an article Guardian published, a Conglese soldier admits to raping 53 women and five and six year old children only because they had the freedom to do whatever they wanted during war.[5]

While women are disproportionately affected, men and LGBTIQ+ individuals can also be victims of sexual violence during war. They may face sexual violence from armed personnel, humanitarian workers or peacekeepers, or be trafficked for sexual exploitation.[3]

When a woman endures any form of sexual violence, the repercussions extend beyond physical and psychological harm; she also bears the weight of stigma. This burden, compounded by the trauma of humiliation, often leads families to ostracize these women, forcing them out of their homes.[4]

The repercussions of sexual violence on physical, mental, and emotional well-being can overshadow every facet of a survivor’s life. Even seemingly mundane tasks, such as getting out of bed, taking a shower, or stepping outside, can become daunting.[6]

Every individual deserves to live free from violence that strips them of their dignity and safety. As we observe the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict on the 19th of June, let us reflect on this profound issue and aspire for a world where no one is ever forced to endure such degradation to their very essence.

BY CEYDA BETUL KEMANCI 

 

Sources: 

[1] EVAWkit_06_Factsheet_ConflictAndPostConflict_en.pdf (unwomen.org)

[2] Sexual Violence As A Weapon Of War – The Organization for World Peace (theowp.org)

[3] Five things to know about sexual violence in conflict zones (icrc.org)

[4] Why is sexual violence so common in war? — Peace Insight

[5[ Congo: We did whatever we wanted, says soldier who raped 53 women | Democratic Republic of the Congo | The Guardian

[6] Impacts of sexual violence and abuse | Rape Crisis England & Wales

 

War zones expose children to daily dangers, denying them safety, education, food, and basic rights, necessitating urgent global humanitarian action. This year on International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression we remember the children of Gaza, Sudan, Myanmar, Turkiye, Syria, Ethiopia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti and Nigeria.

Children residing in war zones around the world witness unimaginable horrors on a daily basis. It is unsafe for them to play outside, sleep at home, attend school, or go to hospitals for medical attention.

Children around the globe endure unspeakable horrors even adults find unbearable and they are innocently caught in the midst of warring parties. They are being subjected to sexual violence, and abduction and are being forced to join armed groups, all while being deprived of essential humanitarian aid.

UN Reports, in Gaza the number of children killed is higher than from four years of world conflict. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said “This war is a war on children. It is a war on their childhood and their future” [1]. More than 14,000 children have been reportedly killed and thousands have been injured. If not injured or killed children are deprived of essential needs, displaced and don’t have access to water, food and medicine. UNICEF had initially reported that “Rafah is now a city of children, who have nowhere safe to go in Gaza”. On the 26th of May 2024, the tents and shelters in Rafah have now been bombed which leaves no safe place for the children of Gaza. UNICEF reports that even wars have rules and no child should be cut off from essential services in accordance with international humanitarian law [2] reflecting that this is not a war but a genocide[3].

There is a silent war and famine going on in Sudan affecting innocent children. Human Rights Watch reports a gruesome incident where RSF Forces first shot the parents in front of their children and then piled up the children and shot them. They later threw their bodies into the river and their belongings after them[4].

To mark a year of brutality against Sudanese children, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) issued a media statement highlighting the violations resulting in 24 million children in Sudan being at risk of generational catastrophe. Among these children, 14 million are in dire need of humanitarian support, 19 million are out of school, and 4 million are displaced, according to UNICEF, making Sudan now the largest child displacement crisis in the world[5].

Since the military coup in 2021, the armed conflict, and the suffering and cruelty continue in Myanmar. Innocent children who are too young to comprehend the chaos around them, are caught in the midst of the conflict, malnourished and deprived of essential needs. UNICEF reports that 6,000,000 children are in need of humanitarian assistance [6].

A year after the deadliest earthquakes in Turkiye and Syria, children are still feeling the effects of the tragedy. Almost 7.5 million children in Syria still require humanitarian aid. 3.2 million children in Turkiye still need essential services as families are homeless and without access to essential services, including safe water, education, and medical care [7].

The human rights violations continue in Turkiye not only affecting innocent adults but affecting innocent children. Thousands of children are growing up in prison with their parents who are only detained due to Erdogan’s dictator regime in Turkiye. The government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is dismantling human rights protections and democratic norms in Turkiye on a scale unprecedented in the 18 years he has been in office, said Human Rights Watch [8]. Recently, several girls under 18 were detained and subjected to psychological torture due to non-implementation of the Constitutional Court and ECHR rulings.

Ethiopia is facing multiple crises due to climate crises (flood and drought), armed conflicts, diseases and economic shocks. Floods have affected the education sector in the Somali region with the disruption of the schooling of over 66,000 children (32.3 percent girls) and damage/destruction to school infrastructure (56 out of 146 flood-affected schools). The scale of damage to the schools and the reported sheltering of IDPs on school grounds will prevent thousands of children from returning to school [9].

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the decades-long armed conflict continued to cause grave violations against civilians and children. The M23 committed more unlawful killings, rapes, other apparent war crimes and crimes against humanity in areas under their control [10]. Save the Children has reported that 78,000 children have been forced to flee their homes due to the escalating violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)[11]. As armed conflict is a daily reality for the children in the Democratic Republic of Congo, these children are facing poverty, sexual violence, being abducted, deprived of food and water and even being trained as child soldiers [12]. UNICEF’s Director of Child Protection said “I met children who survived the horrors of recruitment and use by armed groups and the unspeakable trauma of sexual violence – atrocities that no one should experience, let alone children” [13].

On 8 May 2024, Save the Children reported that children in Haiti are being forced into armed gangs due to extreme hunger. According to the UN, between 30% to 50% of armed groups in Haiti currently have children within their ranks. Save the Children’s Food and Livelihood Advisor in Haiti said “The hunger situation is so desperate our staff are hearing stories of children joining deadly gangs just so they can get food to eat” [14].

OCHA reports that in Nigeria children are at risk of forced recruitment into armed groups when unaccompanied and separated from families, especially children of those considered to be formerly associated or affiliated with armed groups. Protection concerns continue more so for women and girls, who run a higher risk of being subject to violence, abduction, rape, gender-based violence, forced and child marriage, and other violations of their rights. Children in Nigeria face malnutrition on an incomprehensible scale, 1.53 million children under five years old are expected to face acute malnutrition and about 511,800 children are expected to face severe acute malnutrition, a life-threatening condition. [15]

On this international day of innocent children victims of aggression we remember all the innocent children who, instead of crying over lost toys, are crying due to fear, destruction, and violence. These children, born into a cruel world, deserve a childhood filled with love and safety, not suffering.

BY CEYDA KEMANCI

 

Sources:

[1] Gaza: Number of children killed higher than from four years of world conflict | UN News

 

[2] Children in Gaza need life-saving support | UNICEF

 

[3] Rights expert finds ‘reasonable grounds’ genocide is being committed in Gaza | UN News

 

[4] Children ‘piled up and shot’: new details emerge of ethnic cleansing in Darfur | Global development | The Guardian

 

[5] Sudan conflict: 24 million children exposed to a year of brutality and rights violations, UN committee says | OHCHR

 

[6] Myanmar-Humanitarian-SitRep-April-2024.pdf (unicef.org)

 

[7] One year after devastating earthquakes hit Türkiye and Syria, consequences continue to reverberate for affected children and families (unicef.org)

 

[8] Turkey: Erdoğan’s Onslaught on Rights and Democracy | Human Rights Watch (hrw.org)

 

[9] Ethiopia – Situation Report, 10 Jan 2024 | OCHA (unocha.org)

 

[10] World Report 2024: Democratic Republic of Congo | Human Rights Watch (hrw.org)

 

[11] DRC: AT LEAST 78,000 CHILDREN DISPLACED AND FAMILIES RIPPED APART AS FIGHTING ESCALATES | Save the Children International

 

[12] Children of the Democratic Republic of the Congo – Humanium

 

[13] DR Congo: Children killed, injured, abducted, and face sexual violence in conflict at record levels for third consecutive year – UNICEF

 

[14] Extreme hunger in Haiti forcing children into armed gangs – Save the Children – Haiti | ReliefWeb

 

[15] “Nigeria Humanitarian Needs Overview 2024 | OCHA (unocha.org)

 

Central London’s historic walks, initiated by Human Rights Solidarity (HRS), enjoy overwhelming demand and positive feedback for their educational tours. Did you hear about our recent Walking Through History in Central London project? If not, let me give you a summary of what happened for the past three months. This project was established by Human Rights Solidarity and funded by the Transport for London & London Marathon Foundation. It creates a safe opportunity to be more active and participate in interactive learning sessions about Britain’s history at the same time. Would you believe me if I said the tickets for our next session sold out in one day? There is a very high demand for this project, and we are thrilled to see such enthusiasm and support from the community! Since the start of our project, the feedback we received has been incredibly positive with many participants expressing their enjoyment for the guided walks through historic parts of Central London. Let’s break down where we have been and what we learned through our wonderful tour guide. 

Our first spot was London’s Times Square: The Piccadilly Circus. In this buzzing environment, filled with tourists from all around the world, we learned the brief history of how Britain was built. Did you know the word “Britain” comes from the ancient Romans’ name for the ancient Britons? As we walked through Leicester Square, we didn’t forget to visit the famous Chinatown and take a picture with their guardian lions. Finally, we finished at London’s most significant market, Covent Garden. 

Our second tour started at Tower Hill to learn more about the Roman Wall of Londinium. We explored the ancient defence systems built in London as well as visited the places Samuel Pepys talked about in his diaries. Wandering through the streets of Central London, we learned the nicknames of famous skyscrapers and took a bunch of pictures. After also passing through the Leadenhall Market, where one of the iconic scenes in Harry Potter was filmed, we ended our tour at the Bank Square. 

The most recent session we had was in the British Museum, a place where the history of all countries is gathered in one place. Starting with the famous Rosetta Stone, our tour guide explained how it led to a new era of understanding ancient civilizations. We explored various artefacts gathered from Anatolia and Ancient Greece as well as diving briefly into Greek mythology with stories about Heracles. We ended our tour on the Egyptian floor where we had the chance to see a 5500-year-old mummy.

If this sounds interesting to you, stay tuned for updates on upcoming sessions and opportunities to join us as we walk through history together. Do not forget to book your tickets on our Eventbrite website as we release them on the second Saturday of every month!

 

Overcoming digital dopamine addiction requires mindfulness, healthier habits, and internal change for Gen Z’s balanced well-being in the digital age. Gen Z is the most connected generation in history. Smartphones and devices enable constant browsing and scrolling, leading to repeated dopamine hits with each new notification. Is digital dopamine addiction actually harmful? Study conducted by the University of Cambridge shows that almost half of British teenagers feel as if they are addicted to social media. So, how can we combat this growing concern? 

What is Digital Dopamine Addiction?

Dopamine is the neurotransmitter in our brains that controls the pleasure and reward centres. When we get likes and messages, reach a new level in a game, or find something new online, our brains release dopamine, which makes us feel good. Over time, we can become addicted to seeking dopamine hits from our digital devices, constantly checking for new content and stimulation. 

Moreover, excessive digital media consumption has been associated with decreased attention span, poor sleep, anxiety, depression, and strained relationships with family and friends. This is primarily due to the  fear of missing out and constant distraction and stimulation, which can overload our brains. A study published by the Lancet shows that for girls across the range of daily social media use, from  5 or more hours, a strong depressive symptoms score is seen; for boys, higher depressive symptom scores were seen among those 3 or more hours daily use.

What can be done about it? 

Many of us need to recognise that there is a shared responsibility. Addressing this growing issue requires a comprehensive approach involving families, schools, technology companies, and, most importantly, young people. Families can set boundaries, such as no device usage during mealtimes or after a particular hour at night. They can also engage in device-free activities and spend quality time together. 96% of parents set limits on their child’s digital habits.

When it comes to schools, the government and school governors have considered implementing smartphone bans during the day. While this may prevent distractions, it’s crucial to address the root issues. Educating students on healthy device usage and digital wellness is not just a suggestion, but a key to their success in the digital age.

Students also need to be self-aware about their digital habits. They can use app limits and website blockers, turn off notifications, and schedule device breaks. They can also replace endless scrolling with other enjoyable activities. 

What do my friends think?

I surveyed 20 friends aged 16-22, and 75% acknowledged some degree of digital addiction tendencies. A few have deleted distracting apps but admitted it’s an ongoing struggle, apps like TikTok Snapchat and Instagram. 80% agree that schools should provide more education on this issue.

Lastly, ultimately, overcoming digital dopamine addiction is about being mindful and developing healthier habits. External limits can provide a necessary structure, but true change comes from within. By recognising the shared responsibility and taking proactive steps, we can help Gen Z navigate the digital age with balance and well-being. The struggle is real, but with concerted effort, it is one we can overcome. Don’t let devices rule your dopamine-take back control of your time and attention. 

BY AZRA OZCAN 

Sources:

• Revealed: almost half of British teens feel addicted to social media, study says | Well actually | The Guardian.
• *PIIS2589-5370(18)30060-9.pdf (thelancet.com)
• Raising the smartphone generation: New research into how parents and children manage their digital habits | Kaspersky official blog

 

 

The surge in waste export from Europe to Turkey, poses serious environmental and ethical dilemmas, necessitating robust international environmental policies. The issue of waste exportation, mainly from European nations to countries like Turkey, presents a pressing environmental and ethical challenge. With China’s decision in 2018 to ban the import of plastic waste, Turkey has become a significant destination for European waste. This shift underscores the global dynamics of waste management as nations grapple with waste surpluses and the complexities of international waste disposal practices.

Historically, China was the world’s largest importer of recyclable materials until its ban, which redirected much of Europe’s waste to other countries, including Turkey and Malaysia. This policy change addressed domestic pollution issues and encouraged China’s waste recycling industries. The ban has had ripple effects across the globe, compelling other nations to rethink their waste management strategies and develop more sustainable practices[1].

In recent years, incidents such as the illegal export of 220 tonnes of waste from the UK to Turkey, which included banned materials like soiled nappies, have highlighted systemic issues in waste management and compliance with international laws[2]. This particular case from 2019 resulted in fines and mandated improvements in waste sorting at UK facilities. However, these actions underscore a broader problem of inadequate oversight and enforcement of waste export regulations. A 2020 Greenpeace report revealed that much of the UK’s plastic waste exported to Turkey was either dumped or burned illegally, posing severe health hazards and environmental pollution [2]. The UK exported significant plastic waste to Turkey in 2023, demonstrating the ongoing dependency on foreign waste management facilities [3].

According to a report in Envirotech Magazine, there has been a significant increase in the amount of UK plastic waste exported for recycling, with over 600,000 tonnes shipped in 2023 alone. More than 25% of this waste was sent to Turkey, highlighting a growing reliance on foreign nations, including non-OECD countries, to manage the UK’s plastic waste. The export of waste has surged by over 500% in the last three years, raising concerns about the environmental impact and the effectiveness of recycling systems in recipient countries [3].

The EU has taken steps to address these challenges through revised waste export rules under the European Green Deal, demonstrating a commitment to reduce waste generation and prevent the shipment of plastic waste to non-OECD countries. Despite these regulations, Turkey, as an OECD country, remains a significant destination for EU waste. This situation presents an opportunity for significant change, raising concerns regarding Turkey’s recycling capacities and the environmental health impacts on its local communities.

Reports from various organisations have illuminated the dire consequences of the current practices. In Turkey, poorly managed waste sites, where much of Europe’s plastic waste ends up, have become environmental hazards. These sites often lack proper controls, leading to widespread pollution and severe health risks for local populations. Activists have used the term “waste colonialism” to describe this dynamic, where developed nations exploit less wealthy countries as dumping grounds for their waste [4]

The magnitude of waste exports to Turkey is significant: in 2021, Turkey imported 14.7 million tonnes of solid waste from EU countries, a threefold increase since 2004, with plastics making up a considerable portion[5]. This statistic highlights Turkey’s role as Europe’s primary waste hub and underscores the urgent need for improved waste management and regulatory practices within Turkey to handle such volumes effectively [6] [7].

This situation necessitates a critical re-evaluation of international waste management policies. Countries involved in waste exports must enforce stricter regulations and improve transparency. Additionally, enhancing recycling technologies and capacities within exporting countries can reduce the need to ship waste abroad, thus mitigating environmental and ethical issues.

The environmental repercussions of waste export are profound, disrupting ecosystems and contravening ethical waste management principles. Strengthening international cooperation and establishing stringent environmental safeguards are essential to ensuring sustainability and justice in waste management.

BY ZEYNEP VEISOGLU

Sources:

[1]          https://politeknik.org.tr/turkiye-nasil-avrupanin-cop-merkezi-oldu/

[2]          https://certified-sustainable.co.uk/why-is-the-uks-plastic-waste-being-dumped-in-turkey/

[3]          https://envirotecmagazine.com/2024/01/24/growth-in-plastic-packaging-recycling-being-shipped-abroad-including-non-oecd-countries/

[4]          https://www.gov.uk/government/news/soiled-nappies-among-banned-waste-exported-to-turkey

[5]          https://tr.euronews.com/2022/05/25/ab-ulkelerinin-turkiye-ye-gonderdigi-cop-uc-kat-artarak-14-7-milyon-tona-ulast

[6]          https://www.politico.eu/article/the-turkey-shaped-hole-in-the-eus-new-waste-export-regime/

[7]          https://www.equaltimes.org/turkey-europe-s-rubbish-dump