African Consuls General Meet in New York
The meeting welcomed new members and discussed past and upcoming activities with focus on creating ways to engage their various communities.
Africa-Related, New York
The African Consuls General Group Recently Met at the Africa Union Permanent Observer Office in New York
Hosted by the Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco in New York under the leadership of Hon. Mohammed Benabdeljalil, the meeting welcomed new members and discussed past and upcoming activities with focus on creating ways to engage their various communities.
A presentation on the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York was delivered by the Consul General of Malaysia HE Amir Farid Abu Hassan.
Mr Simon Ibe of Global Patriot Newspapers and Mrs. Oyiza Adaba of Africa-Related Inc. both spoke on the need for the group to engage the African Diaspora media outlets in order to reach their nationals. Ice informed the group that the gap in how the media operates in the West and how it operates among people of African descent, is the basis for a webinar that will will be held on September 20th 2024 from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm (EST), during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Week, and is part of the UN Summit of the Future..
Ms. Busi Matsiko, President of the newly instituted New York Chamber of Commerce also addressed the group, harping on the powerful location New York City offers, and on the economic viability of engaging with Wall Street and other financial institutions that encourage and support Diasporta Africans. She cited that six African designers participated in the the recently concluded New York Fashion Week.
U.S. Department of State Daily Digest Bulletin
U.S. and Ghana Nuclear Firms Sign Landmark Commercial Agreement for Small Modular Reactor Project in Ghana.
U.S. and Ghana Nuclear Firms Sign Landmark Commercial Agreement for Small Modular Reactor Project in Ghana
08/29/2024
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U.S. and Ghana Nuclear Firms Sign Landmark Commercial Agreement for Small Modular Reactor Project in Ghana
08/29/2024 09:02 AM EDT
Office of the Spokesperson
At the U.S.-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit in Nairobi, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Jenkins, joined by U.S. Department of Energy Deputy Assistant Secretary Aleshia Duncan, Ghana Deputy Minister of Energy Collins Adomako-Mensah, and Ghana Ministry of Energy Chief Director Wilhelmina Asamoah, observed a significant milestone in civil nuclear cooperation between U.S. and Ghanaian nuclear industries — the signing of a commercial agreement between Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG) and Regnum Technology Group, the U.S. developer for a small modular reactor (SMR) project using NuScale Power technology.
This commercial agreement between NPG and Regnum represents a pivotal advancement in collaboration between U.S. and Ghanaian civil nuclear industries and is testament of the commitment by both nations to advancing clean and sustainable energy solutions. The SMR project is anticipated to be a cornerstone of Ghana’s efforts to enhance its energy infrastructure and lead the way on SMR deployments in the region. This initiative will help Ghana achieve its energy goals and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, setting a precedent for future energy projects in the region.
The NPG-Regnum agreement builds on existing U.S.-Ghana civil nuclear cooperation, including under the U.S. Foundational Infrastructure for the Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Program that is helping Ghana to establish itself as a SMR Regional Hub and center of excellence. In addition to technical training, advisory services, and study tours, the FIRST Program is providing a NuScale Energy Exploration (E2) Center SMR control room simulator to serve as a regional training center for nuclear power technicians and operators and is establishing a welding certification program to support jobs and supply chain development for the region. Through this dedicated workforce development focus, Ghana will be positioned to establish a skilled nuclear workforce consistent with the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation.
The United States is committed to supporting the use of innovative clean nuclear energy to power global decarbonization efforts and provide energy security to partners around the world.
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SUDAN'S TWO WARLORDS: The Worst Displacement And Humanitarian Crisis Yet
Amidst the ongoing war in the Middle East and Ukraine, the rise of anti-government protests, mass migration and general global tensions, there is a "forgotten" war that is yet to garner as much media coverage. Two strategic events took place in the U.S. this week, to bring the much needed attention to the ongoing war in Sudan.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
Amidst the ongoing war in the Middle East and Ukraine, the rise of anti-government protests, mass migration and general global tensions, there is a "forgotten" war that is yet to garner as much media coverage. Two strategic events took place in the U.S. this week, to bring the much needed attention to the ongoing war in Sudan
Stock Photo: Tom Rogers @tomtookaphoto
Rival factions fighting in Sudan's two-year war that started on 15 April 2023, have brought the central African country to its knees in one of the worst displacement and humanitarian crises ever seen. The Sudanese Armed Forces under Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces under the Janjaweed leader, Hemedti are complicit in causing mass migration that has triggered famine in some parts of the country.
Screenshot: Washington Post Live
On July 30th, U.S. media giant, Washington Post hosted a live conversation on Sudan's current situation. The forum enabled top diplomats and humanitarian experts to come together and proffer solutions to a crisis, "forgotten". At this gathering, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, together with top global experts like Comfort Ero, President & CEO, International Crisis Group, participated in the discussion.
World Vision CEO, Edgar Sandoval Sr. has described it as "the largest humanitarian and hunger crisis in the world", because the warring factions continue to block humanitarian aid, have weaponized food and play the blame game with each other.
In a separate development on July 31, 2024, the Sudanese American Physicians Association (SAPA) held a press briefing with members of the foreign press, to drive home some hard-hitting, first-hand facts about the ongoing conflict.
Dr. Yasir Elamin, a Sudanese/American is an assistant professor in the Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, at the University of Texas MD Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, and president of SAPA. He and his colleagues conducts regular medical missions to the region, with his last trip being June 2024. His words paint a grim and desperate picture.
“The health care system in Sudan has been devastated. Almost 70 percent of healthcare facilities are damaged or non-operational, often targeted in attacks. Tragically, at least 30 healthcare professionals have lost their lives since the conflict began. Access to aid and information is frequently obstructed, compounding the crisis.”
Ms. Razan Zaroug, a planning, monitoring & evaluation specialist with the Sudanese American Physicians Association based in Sudan reiterated Elamin’s points, highlighting the immediate danger for the mission's ground team which creates strategic and operational plans, monitors and evaluates implementation and impact.
With the backdrop of a potentially expanded war or a negotiated peace, 4 million Sudanese children are acutely malnourished, parts of the country are on the brink of famine and up to 25.6 million people are facing food insecurity.
According to the U.S Department of State, the total U.S. humanitarian assistance for the Sudan emergency response was nearly $710 million in Fiscal Year 2023.
In January 2024, The United States. brought sanctions on funding sources fueling the conflict. Clearly, more needs to be done. How Sudan continues to fall under the world's radar in the shadow of other topical news items like the Middle East and Ukraine, is best summed by Amb. Greenfield…
“It’s Africa and people don’t pay as much attention to Africa as they pay to other parts of the world.”
Inside CONSUMER REPORTS America
How well are you protected as a consumer, given the vast array of products we consume everyday? In this special report, Oyiza Adaba, examines Consumer Reports America, an 87 year-old non-profit institution that has been championing consumer rights - from food to flying cars.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
How well are you protected as a consumer, given the vast array of products you consume everyday? In this special report, Oyiza Adaba, examines Consumer Reports America, an 87 year-old non-profit institution that has been championing consumer rights - from food to flying cars.
Copies of yearly consumer reports by over an 87-year period. (Photo: Africa-Related)
Yonkers, New York is approximately 30 minutes from Midtown Manhattan. It is the hometown of Denzel Washington and Consumer Reports, an 87-year old independent non-profit organization in the United States that has a long history of working to advance truth, transparency, and fairness in the marketplace. With its independent, evidence-based research and testing, Consumer Reports empowers and informs consumers, incentivizes corporations to act responsibly, and helps policymakers prioritize the rights and interests of consumers in order to shape a consumer-driven marketplace.
This exclusive opportunity was for Foreign Press members to be briefed by Marta L. Tellado, President & CEO, Consumer Reports, and discussed consumer behaviors and how Consumer Reports informs consumer decisions. Ms. Tellado who has led America’s foremost consumer organization since 2014 and also explained how Consumer Reports is working to ensure a consumer-first approach to AI and the advocacy programs that help consumers can feel transparency, accuracy, and fairness
Other briefers were Lilian Kayizzi, Vice President of Research, Testing and Insights, Consumer Reports, who explained the depth of research by the organization. Jake Fisher, a Senior Director, Auto Test Center, gave insights to the Connecticut Testing 327-acre site, which is the largest independent automotive test site devoted to consumer interests.
The Briefers
The TOUR
Visiting journalists got an opportunity to tour CR’s consumer product and service testing center that houses over 60 state-of-the-art labs with over 130 researchers, scientists, engineers, and testing experts. In the coming fiscal year, CR expects to spend more than $30 million to test, rate, and review 9,000+ products and services. The tour included the following stops:
Auto Demonstration: A first-hand look at what drivers can and cannot see behind the wheel in some of America's most popular SUVs and trucks. Being 5.1, I proved the perfect candidate for this demo
Robotic Vacuum Lab: How well robotic vacuums perform at simple tasks like cleaning carpets and floors, and the data the machines collect about your home.
Rec Lab: Bike helmets are supposed to protect your head, but we'll show you how not all are created equal. Plus, experience the CR-invented machine that tests how long treadmills are supposed to last.
Inside the Rec Lab at Consumer Reports with the testing team. (Photo by Africa-Related)
My colleagues and I spent some time quizzing the team at the video doorbell lab where CR uncovered that popular video doorbells could be hacked by a young child.
In an era where fake products have flooded global trade, the agency continues to operate alongside global counterparts across various exchange platforms to ensure uniformity of vision.. The question now is, how does your country's consumer protection agency function? Do they live up to their name and objective of 'protecting the consumer'?
Video Report: By Africa-Related
PHOTOS BY AFRICA-RELATED
RELATED STORIES: Consumer Reports Part II: Rec Lab Team - A Candid Conversation
FACT SHEET: Outcomes of the 56th Session of the UN Human Rights Council
During the 56th session of the UN Human Rights Council, the United States worked closely with UN Member States to highlight and address pressing human rights concerns and to uphold the universal values, aspirations, and principles that have underpinned the UN system since its founding. Our statements and positions underscored the U.S. commitment to promoting the universality of human rights, including by addressing discrimination, inequity, and inequality in multiple contexts.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesperson
For Immediate Release
FACT SHEET
July 12, 2024
Outcomes of the 56th Session of the UN Human Rights Council
During the 56th session of the UN Human Rights Council, the United States worked closely with UN Member States to highlight and address pressing human rights concerns and to uphold the universal values, aspirations, and principles that have underpinned the UN system since its founding. Our statements and positions underscored the U.S. commitment to promoting the universality of human rights, including by addressing discrimination, inequity, and inequality in multiple contexts.
This session, the United States advanced our priorities on a broad range of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including economic, social, and cultural rights, including:
Renewing the mandate of the Special Rapporteur (SR) on the situation of human rights in Eritrea
The United States worked with the EU and other partners to renew the mandate of the SR. This mandate is particularly important given Eritrea's ongoing human rights violations and abuses, including its arbitrary detention of individuals for exercising their freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, or religion or belief, and its repression of those who conscientiously object to Eritrea’s compulsory, indefinite national service.
Renewing the mandate of the Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Equity and Justice in Law Enforcement (EMLER)
The United States strongly supports the renewal of the EMLER mandate and cosponsored the resolution that passed by consensus. The mechanism is part of a global effort to advance the rights of members of marginalized racial, ethnic, and Indigenous communities. The United States was proud to host an official country visit from EMLER in April 2023.
Advancing Gender Equality and the Empowerment of All Women and Girls
As part of our longstanding work to address the human rights of all women and girls, we reaffirmed support for eliminating discriminatory laws and practices. We strongly advocated that the human rights, health, and welfare of all women and girls be protected in several key resolutions, including Elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and girls, Technology facilitated gender-based violence, Menstrual hygiene management, and Accelerating progress towards preventing adolescent girls’ pregnancy. Additionally, as an active member of the Group of Friends on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, the United States worked with our partners across the session to highlight the importance of protecting the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons.
Other Priorities:
The United States joined consensus on the resolution to continue reporting on the human rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar, the resolution providing human rights technical assistance and capacity-building in Libya, and the text renewing the work of international expert Antonia Urrejola in identifying obstacles to carrying out the 2016 peace agreement in Colombia.
The United States also co-sponsored resolutions on thematic issues including the independence of the judiciary, jurors, and assessors and the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of peaceful protests. We joined consensus on resolutions on freedom of expression, the human rights of seafarers, safety of the child in a digital environment, and the importance of free secondary education.
Joint Statements:
Reflecting our core value of championing policies and practices that provide equal opportunities and protections for everyone, no matter their gender, the United States was proud to lead a joint statement cosponsored by states from all regions that condemns conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence. We continued our efforts to shine a light on the use of transnational repression by leading a joint statement condemning the actions of countries to silence critics beyond their borders through intimidation, surveillance, or violence. The United States also led a joint statement on athletes as human rights defenders.
We also joined statements on Georgia, Ukraine, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, the Special Rapporteur on freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, and the Olympic ideal. To advance gender equality, we signed statements on Women's Economic Empowerment; Women, Diplomacy, and Human Rights; Women's and Girls’ Human Rights; and Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.
Side Events:
A central highlight of this session was the side event the United States co-hosted with the EU on our joint U.S.-EU guidance for online platforms on protecting human rights defenders online. Panelists discussed growing online threats faced by human rights defenders (HRDs), underscored the need for online platforms to allocate sufficient resources to address the threats faced by HRDs, and the critical need for cross-platform collaboration.
The United States co-sponsored several additional side events, including events on Arbitrary detention, Decriminalization of homelessness, LGBTQI+ issues, Belarus, and Building a roadmap towards a disability-inclusive post-2030 agenda, among others.
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George Ehusani on Nigeria's Minimum Wage Debate
How can anyone who earns 200,000 300,000 400,500 thousand, not to talk of people who earn 1 million 2 million how can they go to sleep in good conscience? How can they go to sleep in good conscience and come out to sit down in a boardroom to discuss the sustainability or otherwise of paying 60,000 to the poorest of workers?
Excerpts from Rev Fr George Ehusani. Sermon on Nigeria's Minimum Wage Debate.
Lux Terra Leadership Center Abuja, June 2024.
I have been sick of this controversy over living wage or minimum wage, and I believe that something is seriously wrong with the heads of many of our leaders.How can anyone who earns 200,000 300,000 400,500 thousand, not to talk of people who earn 1 million 2 million how can they go to sleep in good conscience? How can they go to sleep in good conscience and come out to sit down in a boardroom to discuss the sustainability or otherwise of paying 60,000 to the poorest of workers?
I watch people on TV experts, economic experts, corporate executives, government officials who are taking home more than a million and the amount and they are debating 60,000 or over will destroy the economy and is not sustainable. How wicked.
How can we give 60,000 to a poor worker for his poor worker who may have a family of two or three or four for his feeding, for his accommodation, for his house rent for his medical care for his children's school fees? How can we be blind? How can we do that? And we think that God will bless our country?
We think that it is by bringing a new national anthem for God to bless our country. How can you commit this crime against humanity? For me this is a crime against humanity.
Because the poor people who cannot afford to buy Garri, I'm saying poor people who cannot buy Gary, I'm not talking of meat or fish. People are dying because they have no money to cure malaria. How can you go to sleep in good conscience, those of us who belong to the elite? How can we go to sleep with good conscience?
I see this as a new form of apartheid. Nigeria is one of the most unequal societies in the entire world. A society where it's like the Animal Farm, a society where we have conspicuously rich people, people who are living in conspicuous consumption and others who are in deplorable, dehumanizing poverty.
If you have somebody in this country that takes home, 1 million naira, I mean 1 million I'm not talking about 30 million naira 1 million naira in the month and he can open his mouth. I say anyone who earns up to 1 million should keep his or her mouth shut when he hears them debating about paying 60,000 for the poor.
More than 60 years after independence, we are running an apartheid society. This time is not racial apartheid, iis economic apartheid.
We are running an apartheid society of people of conspicuous consumption flying in private jets around at government expense. People who are riding four or 567 SUVs with pilot vehicles chasing the poor out of the road.
You insulted the poor by saying 30,000, and later you say 48,000, and now you say 60,000. Actually you will pay more than 60,000. You come out with 62,000. You insult poor Nigerians.
There is hardly any society I know that is as divided as the Nigerian society and a society that is so divided is just sitting on a keg of gunpowder. I have warned here before that the revenge of the poor is at the corner. The revenge of the poor is at the corner. I am not calling for it, but it will happen as night follows the day.
Because when you reduce people to this dehumanizing level, nature does not allow a situation of islands of affluence amidst a sea of poverty. Nature does not allow it.
Let me warn those in the elites. Let me warn those in the apartheid committee of government. Let me warn that it is in the course of nature that when a predator continues to devour the various resources that the predator needs more for his sustenance, nature will take out the predator in order to have a measure of equilibrium. Nature is about balance, you know.
When a predator continues to devour the various resources that the predator needs more for its sustenance, nature will take out the predator in order to have an equilibrium in order to have a measure of equilibrium. Nature is about balance, you know. All of nature is about balance and human beings are part of nature. And Nigerians are part of nature
If the predator who needs the animals in the kingdom to survive is recklessly devouring the very animals for its own survival, nature will step in and remove the predictor so that there can be balance in the system in the ecosystem.
Let me one that all those who are in government, I hear I have not confirmed that there are people taking home almost 30 million naira in the month and you have the guts and you have the temerity. Your conscience allows you to sit down to discuss about 60,000 Naira for a poor worker for the whole month, and you are the one that has all the opportunities of excess.
You sit down to discuss about 60,000 and come out and say this is not sustainable. How is that 30 million Naira sustainable economy? How is this sustainable that a leader has 100 SUVs going with him to the airport? How is this sustainable? How is it sustainable that leaders merely junket around the world? How is that sustainable?
I say we are committing a crime against humanity. And if we do not repent and retrace our steps immediately Revenge of the poor is at the corner. Do not hold me responsible because while the devastation was on, I did not keep quiet. Do not hold me responsible. Because while the madness was on, I did not sit on the fence. I kept on shouting, that the revenge of the poor is at the corner unless we change our course. And if we do not change our course we will end up where we are headed. And where we are headed is devastation, disruption, violent revolution.
I rest my case.
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NWU Report on Retaliation Against Media Workers During the War on Gaza
For the last 6 months, members of NWU's Digital Media Division have been investigating retaliation in the media industry during the war on Gaza.
Dear members,
For the last 6 months, members of NWU's Digital Media Division have been investigating retaliation in the media industry during the war on Gaza.
A team of two dozen FSP-NWU members collaborated to research and produce the report, which is now live at redlines.nwu.org.
This is a first-of-its-kind effort to document a pattern which many of our industry colleagues have informally observed for several months: the workplace repression and punishment of media workers who have voiced criticism of Israel or support for Palestine. The report tallies 44 cases of workplace retaliation occurring between October 7, 2023, and February 1, 2024, impacting more than 100 people. It draws on data compiled from two surveys distributed by NWU as well as news reports and social media posts.
The testimony gathered highlights how retaliation is affecting coverage of what might be the most important geopolitical event in at least a decade. It also highlights the ways in which retaliation is a labor rights issue. If there is any bright spot in this bleak landscape, it's the power of the union. Unions have been able, in some cases, to prevent retaliation from occurring or seek justice when it does.
As our president Larry Goldbetter said, "As a member of the International Federation of Journalists, the National Writers Union has stood for press freedom and against political targeting of media workers since the union’s founding in 1981. Now, we are witnessing how a coercive and retaliatory environment within the media industry can give way to the arbitrary and violent repression of the press, even in a U.S. context. It has never been more urgent to stand in solidarity with our Palestinian journalist colleagues who have been targeted with extreme violence simply for doing their jobs."
We will continue to stand in that solidarity and use our collective power to fight against repression and censorship, both for ourselves and for our fellow media workers, including the many student journalists at universities across the country.
Share the report widely!
With pride in our union,
Elena Novak
NWU Comms Manager
comms@nwu.org
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STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN: U.S. Abstention from UN Security Council Resolution on Gaza
Today, the United States abstained on UN Security Council resolution 2728. This abstention, which comes on the heels of the Russian and Chinese veto of our comprehensive draft resolution in the Council, reaffirms the U.S. position that a ceasefire of any duration come as part of an agreement to release hostages in Gaza. While we do not agree with all provisions included in this text, adjustments made by the resolution’s sponsors over recent days are consistent with our principled position that any ceasefire text must be paired with text on the release of the hostages.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesperson
For Immediate Release
STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN
March 25, 2024
U.S. Abstention from UN Security Council Resolution on Gaza
Today, the United States abstained on UN Security Council resolution 2728. This abstention, which comes on the heels of the Russian and Chinese veto of our comprehensive draft resolution in the Council, reaffirms the U.S. position that a ceasefire of any duration come as part of an agreement to release hostages in Gaza. While we do not agree with all provisions included in this text, adjustments made by the resolution’s sponsors over recent days are consistent with our principled position that any ceasefire text must be paired with text on the release of the hostages. This resolution further explicitly recognizes the painstaking, non-stop negotiations being conducted by the Governments of Egypt, Israel, Qatar, and the United States to achieve such a release in the context of a ceasefire, which would also create space to surge more lifesaving humanitarian assistance for Palestinian civilians, and to build something more enduring.
Because the final text does not have key language we view as essential, notably a condemnation of Hamas, we could not support it. This failure to condemn Hamas is particularly difficult to understand coming days after the world once again witnessed the horrific acts terrorist groups commit.
We reiterate the need to accelerate and sustain the provision of humanitarian assistance through all available routes – land, sea, and air. We continue to discuss with partners a pathway to the establishment of a Palestinian state with real security guarantees for Israel to establish long-term peace and security.
As reflected in my most recent travels to the region, we have been working very closely with our Arab partners to realize these important outcomes. We have also been working to with Israel to ensure October 7 can never be repeated, its security needs are met, and it is further integrated into a more secure and prosperous region. There is consensus on these priorities – a ceasefire, the release of hostages, a surge in humanitarian assistance, and a clear pathway planned for the future. And importantly, there is a growing consensus on the steps needed to achieve these priorities. We will continue our close collaboration with our regional partners to achieve these shared objectives.
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The 2024 Economic Report of the President
Today, the Council of Economic Advisers under the leadership of Chair Jared Bernstein released the 2024 Economic Report of the President, the 78th report since the establishment of CEA in 1946. The 2024 Report brings economic evidence and data to bear on many of today’s most significant issues and questions in domestic and international economic policy:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 21, 2024
The 2024 Economic Report of the President
Today, the Council of Economic Advisers under the leadership of Chair Jared Bernstein released the 2024 Economic Report of the President, the 78th report since the establishment of CEA in 1946. The 2024 Report brings economic evidence and data to bear on many of today’s most significant issues and questions in domestic and international economic policy:
Chapter 1, The Benefits of Full Employment, which is dedicated to the late Dr. William Spriggs, examines the labor market, distributional, and macroeconomic impacts of full employment, with a particular focus on the benefits for economically vulnerable groups of workers who are much more likely to be left behind in periods of weak labor markets.
Chapter 2, The Year in Review and the Years Ahead, describes macroeconomic and financial market trends in 2023 and presents the Federal government’s FY 2024 macroeconomic forecast.
Chapter 3, Population, Aging, and the Economy, explains how long-run trends in fertility and mortality are shaping the U.S. population and labor force.
Chapter 4, Increasing the Supply of Affordable Housing, explores the causes and consequences of the nation’s longstanding housing shortage and how the Biden-Harris administration’s policy agenda can significantly increase the production of more affordable housing.
Chapter 5, International Trade and Investment Flows, presents key facts about long-term trends in U.S. international trade and investment flows, including the role of global supply chains, and highlights the benefits and costs of global integration for American workers.
Chapter 6, Accelerating the Clean Energy Transition, applies a structural change framework to explain the factors that can accelerate the transition towards a clean energy economy.
Chapter 7, An Economic Framework for Understanding Artificial Intelligence, uses an economic framework to explore when, how, and why AI may be adopted, adapting standard economic models to explore AI’s potential effects on labor markets, while examining policy decisions that will affect social and macroeconomic outcomes.
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68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women
On March 13, on the margins of the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, the Government of the United States alongside the Governments of Canada, Colombia, and the United Kingdom, co-sponsored a high-level meeting at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations to discuss shared priorities for advancing women’s political participation and leadership, including by tackling new threats, such as technology-facilitated gender-based violence. Participants included senior leaders from governments, civil society, philanthropy, multilateral organizations, and the private sector.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesperson
For Immediate Release
MEDIA NOTE
March 15, 2024
68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women - High-Level Meeting To Advance Women’s Political Participation and Leadership in the Digital Age
On March 13, on the margins of the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, the Government of the United States alongside the Governments of Canada, Colombia, and the United Kingdom, co-sponsored a high-level meeting at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations to discuss shared priorities for advancing women’s political participation and leadership, including by tackling new threats, such as technology-facilitated gender-based violence. Participants included senior leaders from governments, civil society, philanthropy, multilateral organizations, and the private sector.
This high-level meeting focused on opportunities for collaboration to address the consistent underrepresentation of women at all levels of public life, politics and government, including peace and security decision-making processes. Women leaders, researchers, and experts from civil society highlighted how longstanding barriers to women’s political participation and leadership—including lack of access to political networks and resources as well as gender-based violence both online and offline—continue to undermine their inclusion and advancement in democratic processes. Several participants noted that threats to women leaders have proliferated with the increased adoption of digital technologies and are likely to continue to grow with new and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.Participants noted the urgency of addressing these systemic barriers to ensure a level playing field for elections set to take place around the world this year.
To address these issues, senior leaders from the Biden-Harris Administration invited partners to join a new multistakeholder initiative to advance women’s political participation and leadership in the digital age. This initiative, which the United States intends to launch on the margins of the 75th NATO Summit, will convene governments, philanthropy, civil society, private sector, and multilateral organizations to develop commitments focused on closing the gender gap in leadership, including through programs that address threats to women leaders on and offline. It will build shared commitments and priorities, including the U.S. Strategy and National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, the U.S. Presidential Initiative for Democratic Renewal, the Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse, the Summit for Democracy Gender Cohort, and the Network for Gender Inclusive Democracy.
For more information, please contact StateGWI@state.gov.
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Omoyele Sowore Returns To A Rousing Welcome In The U.S
After five long years away from the U.S, where his family primarily resides, Omoyele Sowore, the presidential aspirant that was held by The Muhammadu Buhari administration - returned to a rousing welcome in New York.
Omoyele Sowore Returns To A Rousing Welcome in the U.S
After five long years away from the U.S, where his family primarily resides, Omoyele Sowore, the Presidential aspirant and journalist that was held by The Muhammadu Buhari administration - returned to a rousing welcome in New York.
Omoyele Sowore and his family. Photo by Saharareporters
#RevolutionNow convener Omoyele Sowore, on Saturday, arrived in the United States of America after five years to reunite with his family.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that the activists would be traveling to the US Friday night (tonight) to reunite with his family.
This comes after a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the release of his passport following the decision of the Nigerian government to withdraw its treasonable felony case against the #RevolutionNow convener, four years after it was seized and he was barred from leaving Nigeria.
The human rights activist and two-time presidential candidate was warmly welcomed by friends and family on Saturday. Sowore, who departed the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos late Friday night on a United Airlines flight to DC Washington Dulles International Airport, was accompanied by his supporters to the airport.
After some tense confrontations with some Air Force and immigration officers upon his arrival at the Lagos airport over their refusal to allow his supporters and media crew to film his departure, Sowore left and arrived in Washington, D.C., according to his live stream upon arrival.
After U.S. immigration protocols, Sowore took a second leg of his trip to Newark International Airport, where his family and friends met him upon arrival at about 10 AM U.S. Eastern Time.
His friends, led by a member of the TakeItBack Movement, Kayode Ojo, a New York-based tax consultant, later met Sowore’s obviously excited family – his wife, Opeyemi, and his two kids.
Pius Omoregha, Adebayo Niyi, Seun Akinfolarin, also present at the airport were Friday Valentine Offo, Odinma Anaedo social Club USA, Engineer Victor and many others.
The activist said in a press invitation sent to SaharaReporters on Friday that his trip would be for a short while since he was "bound to return to Nigeria not only to continue my struggle for the total liberation of our people but also to face the myriad of bogus criminal and civil cases thrown at me since my detention began."
Sowore drove home and later attended a reception organized by the City of Haworth. The packed event, organized by the Mayor, Heather Wasser, had in attendance US Congressman Josh Gottheimer, whom Sowore acknowledged as facilitating his return to the U.S.
Sowore’s in-laws, Dr. Soji and Tolu Oluwole, also attended.
Other attendees included members of the Diaspora community led by a former President of the University of Lagos students union and now a foremost chemical engineer in the US, Dr. Malcolm Fabiyi, Bukola Oreofe, Deacon Dele Alade, Ademola Bello, American writer and journalist Lisa Vives, and Nigerian cuisine chef and owner of Brooklyn-based Buka restaurant, Lookman Afolayan.
The event, in which Sowore gave a heartfelt speech, also featured his wife, Opeyemi, appreciating the women who led the campaign for the activist’s release in Haworth, New Jersey.
The healthcare marketing consultant said the “friendship and unbreakable bonds” she forged with other women in Haworth helped her cope with the lonely days of wondering if her husband was safe.
“I’m so overwhelmed by the love that surrounds me and my family,” she said.
According to a video of the event posted by northjersey.com, Sowore said in his speech, “I can’t explain how I feel to be here with you today.
“Before I was arrested, nobody knew much about me in this city. I would just occasionally get on the street and run because I do long-distance running. I participated in the city’s runs once in a while. But something is very similar to where I come from; my hometown is as small as what you have here.
“And I remember growing up and saying that I would change the world through my hometown of 3,000 people when it was invaded by the police in 1980. Fast-forward to years later, and I found myself in this small town. Just the way my hometown shook the Nigerian government through me, you shook our government and the world through me again. I became one of the most popular faces throughout my five-year stay in Nigeria. Everybody knew how to spell this place.”
At the reception, Sowore’s daughter read a poem describing her father as “a man with a big heart.”
One of the leading voices was a council member, Alanna Zahn Davis, who spoke passionately about the strong bond Sowore’s incarceration brought to bear on the Haworth community in New Jersey.
To end the event, The Mayor of Haworth, Heather Wasser delivered a proclamation to honour Sowore and his family for their resilience and struggle for the emancipation of their homeland Nigeria.
SaharaReporters on February 15 reported that the President Bola Tinubu-led government had discontinued the treasonable felony case instituted against Sowore.
The development was made known in a document issued by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.
The document dated February 15, 2024, was addressed to the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Abuja Division.
In the document, the government disclosed its intention to also discontinue the case against Sowore’s co-defendant, Olawale Bakare, aka Mandate.
Sowore was arrested by the Department of State Services on August 3, 2019, in Lagos, Nigeria.
He was subsequently detained and charged with treason for calling for nationwide protests as part of the #RevolutionNow movement he started.
Following the notice of withdrawal of the case, which was issued by the government through the Attorney General of the Federation, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the release of his passport and other items seized from him.
Source: Sahara Reporters
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WELCOME CORPS Celebrate One Year Anniversary
Welcome Corps is a new program that empowers everyday Americans to welcome refugees arriving through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.
Photo courtesy of Welcome Corps
Africa-Related New York
Welcome Corps is a new program that empowers everyday Americans to welcome refugees arriving through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.
U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken announces Welcome Corps
In January 2023, the U.S. Department of State, in coordination with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, launched the Welcome Corps, a new program that empowers everyday Americans to welcome refugees arriving through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). In July 2023, the Department of State introduced the Welcome Corps on Campus, a new targeted education sponsorship initiative that enables U.S. colleges and universities to play a leading role in resettling refugee students.
The boldest innovation in the United States’ approach to refugee resettlement in four decades, the Welcome Corps builds upon our country’s long tradition of providing refuge to people forced to flee their homes. The launch of the program is widely popular among the American public and even more popular among those who personally know someone who is a refugee. In the first weeks following the launch, tens of thousands of people registered to learn more about the program and how they can join the Welcome Corps.
For more than 40 years, the Department of State has partnered primarily with non-profit resettlement agencies to provide initial resettlement assistance to newly arriving refugees. The Welcome Corps creates new opportunities for Americans in communities across the United States to engage directly in refugee resettlement, building on existing opportunities to volunteer with resettlement agencies.
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Where Should Africa Turn? BOOKINGS Publishes Foresight Africa 2024
The Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C. will launch its 2024 “Foresight Africa” report on January 26, 2024. The report contains top priorities and recommendations for Africa on where Africa should turn its attention in the year ahead.
Foresight Africa 2024. Photo courtesy of Bookings
BY Oyiza Adaba, New York
The Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C. will launch its 2024 “Foresight Africa” report on January 26, 2024 during a hybrid event. The report contains top priorities and recommendations for Africa on where Africa should turn its attention in the year ahead.
In this latest edition, experts offer their insights on key policy issues, including development finance, climate change, gender, entrepreneurship, governance, and more.
Foresight Africa is an annual report that captures top regional priorities for the year ahead published by The Brookings Institution, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C.. Their mission to conduct in-depth, nonpartisan research to improve policy and governance at local, national, and global levels.
Download this year's chapters here and register to watch the launch event on January 26.
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U.S. Secretary Blinken’s to Visit Cabo Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Angola
Secretary Antony J. Blinken will travel to Cabo Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Angola on January 21-26, 2024 to highlight U.S.-Africa partnership since the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, climate, food, health security, future-focused economic partnership, and infrastructure investments in Africa.
Photo by U.S Department of State
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
STATEMENT BY MATTHEW MILLER, SPOKESPERSON
JANUARY 18, 2024
Secretary Antony J. Blinken will travel to Cabo Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Angola January 21-26, 2024.
Throughout the trip, the Secretary will highlight how the United States has accelerated the U.S.-Africa partnership since the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, including in areas such as climate, food, and health security. He will also emphasize our future-focused economic partnership, and how the United States is investing in infrastructure in Africa to boost two-way trade, create jobs at home and on the continent, and help Africa compete in the global marketplace.
Additionally, the Secretary will advance security partnerships based on shared values such as respect for human rights, promotion of democracy, and expansion of the rule of law. He will reaffirm U.S. commitment to our coastal West African partners through the Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability, U.S. partnership with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to address regional challenges, and U.S. efforts to support African leadership in de-escalating tensions and adopting diplomatic solutions to the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The United States reaffirms its sustained commitment to high-level U.S. engagement with Africa.
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U.S. Migration Policy Overview
FOREIGN PRESS CENTER BRIEFING WITH KATIE TOBIN, DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO PRESIDENT BIDEN AND COORDINATOR FOR THE LOS ANGELES DECLARATION, BLAS NUÑEZ-NETO, ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF HOMELAND SECURITY FOR BORDER AND IMMIGRATION POLICY, AND ERIC JACOBSTEIN, DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CENTRAL AMERICA, CUBA AND MIGRATION.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Bureau of Global Public Affairs
JANUARY 11, 2024
FPC TRANSCRIPT: U.S. Migration Policy Overview
FOREIGN PRESS CENTER BRIEFING WITH KATIE TOBIN, DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO PRESIDENT BIDEN AND COORDINATOR FOR THE LOS ANGELES DECLARATION, BLAS NUÑEZ-NETO, ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF HOMELAND SECURITY FOR BORDER AND IMMIGRATION POLICY, AND ERIC JACOBSTEIN, DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CENTRAL AMERICA, CUBA AND MIGRATION.
Cover Photo: Metin Ozer @metinozer
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Calls for Congressional Hearing Over Religious Killings in Nigeria
Days before Christmas, hundreds of Christians were killed in Nigeria, along with their Pastor. This is just the latest example of deadly violence against religious communities in Nigeria. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) Calls for Congressional Hearing after State Department Fails to Designate Nigeria and India as Countries of Particular Concern (CPC).
AfricA-Related, New York
Days before Christmas, hundreds of Christians were killed in Nigeria, along with their Pastor. This is just the latest example of deadly violence against religious communities in Nigeria. (Photo: Screenshot)
PRESS RELEASE
January 4, 2024
USCIRF Calls for Congressional Hearing after State Department Fails to Designate Nigeria and India as Countries of Particular Concern (CPC), while Azerbaijan is Added to State Department’s Special Watch List
Washington, DC – The United States
Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) calls for a congressional hearing after reiterating its extreme disappointment that the U.S. Department of State yet again failed to designate Nigeria and India as Countries of Particular Concern (CPC), despite both countries repeatedly meeting the legal standard. Despite this disappointment, USCIRF welcomed the State Department’s decision to include Azerbaijan on its Special Watch List (SWL) for committing or tolerating severe violations of religious freedom pursuant to the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA).
“There is no justification as to why the State Department did not designate Nigeria or India as a Country of Particular Concern, despite its own reporting and statements. USCIRF calls on Congress to convene a public hearing on the failure of the State Department to follow our recommendations,” said USCIRF Chair Abraham Cooper and Vice Chair Frederick A. Davie.
Mass burials taking place in Plateau State. (Photo by Kim Masara / AFPTV / AFP)
“Days before Christmas, hundreds of Christians were killed in Nigeria, along with their Pastor. This is just the latest example of deadly violence against religious communities in Nigeria that even the State Department has condemned. The majority of Commissioners have travelled to Nigeria and noted the threats to freedom of religion or belief and the deadly implications to religious communities,” stated USCIRF Chair Cooper and Vice Chair Davie. “In India, in addition to perpetrating egregious religious freedom violations within its borders, the government has increased its transnational repression activities targeting religious minorities abroad and those advocating on their behalf.”
“USCIRF rejects the State Department’s decision to omit Nigeria and India as CPCs. We met with the State Department on many occasions to sound the alarm about these countries, but not all of our recommendations have not been followed. We will not be deterred and will continue our role as a congressionally mandated watchdog to ensure the U.S. government prioritizes religious freedom as a key component of U.S. foreign policy,” they added.
The State Department re-designated 12 countries as CPCs—Burma, China, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, Nicaragua, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Furthermore, the State Department again issued waivers on sanctions for Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. In its 2023 Annual Report, USCIRF recommended the re-designation of those 12 countries without any waivers and also recommended CPC designation for Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, Syria, and Vietnam.
The State Department placed Algeria, Azerbaijan, the Central African Republic (CAR), Comoros, and Vietnam on its SWL. USCIRF recommended in its 2023 Annual Report that Algeria, Azerbaijan, and CAR be placed on the SWL, in addition to Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.
“USCIRF acknowledges the State Department accepted our recommendation to include Azerbaijan on its SWL. At the same time, USCIRF is disappointed that the State Department did not include our other recommendations for CPC or SWL. Though Vietnam is included on its Special Watch List, USCIRF strongly believes Vietnam should be designated a CPC based on the State Department’s own reporting on the government’s religious freedom violations,” said USCIRF Chair Cooper and Vice Chair Davie. “USCIRF formally requests a detailed justification by the State Department as to why our policy recommendations were not fully implemented, including the waivers.”
The State Department also designated eight EPCs, which are non-state actors that engage in particularly severe violations of religious freedom pursuant to IRFA. USCIRF recommended the redesignation of seven of these actors in its 2023 Annual Report: al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Houthis, ISIS-Sahel (formerly known as Islamic State in the Greater Sahara or ISGS), Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP, also referred to as ISIS-West Africa), and Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM).
Since the issuance of its 2023 Annual Report, USCIRF has consistently shared its recommendations with the U.S. Department of State and Congress. In early December 2023, USCIRF met with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken to reiterate those recommendations. USCIRF released publications on India’s State-Level Anti-Conversion Laws, Ethnonationalism and Religious Freedom in Nigeria, and State Control of Religion in Azerbaijan, and many others. In 2023, USCIRF held hearings on Iran, Burma, Russia, Cuba, Tajikistan, Vietnam, India, and Iraq.
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The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze, and report on religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion and belief. To interview a Commissioner, please contact USCIRF at media@uscirf.gov.
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Houthi Attacks: Governments Issue Joint Statement
A Joint Statement from the Governments of the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom
AfricA-Related, New York
PRESS RELEASE
January 3, 2024
A Joint Statement from the Governments of the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom
The White House
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Recognizing the broad consensus as expressed by 44 countries around the world on December 19, 2023, as well as the statement by the UN Security Council on December 1, 2023, condemning Houthi attacks against commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea, and in light of ongoing attacks, including a significant escalation over the past week targeting commercial vessels, with missiles, small boats, and attempted hijackings,
We hereby reiterate the following and warn the Houthis against further attacks:
Ongoing Houthi attacks in the Red Sea are illegal, unacceptable, and profoundly destabilizing. There is no lawful justification for intentionally targeting civilian shipping and naval vessels. Attacks on vessels, including commercial vessels, using unmanned aerial vehicles, small boats, and missiles, including the first use of anti-ship ballistic missiles against such vessels, are a direct threat to the freedom of navigation that serves as thebedrock of global trade in one of the world’s most critical waterways.
These attacks threaten innocent lives from all over the world and constitute a significant international problem that demands collective action. Nearly 15 percent of global seaborne trade passes through the Red Sea, including 8 percent of global grain trade, 12 percent of seaborne-traded oil and 8 percent of the world’s liquefied natural gas trade. International shipping companies continue to reroute their vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding significant cost and weeks of delay to the delivery of goods, and ultimately jeopardizing the movement of critical food, fuel, and humanitarian assistance throughout the world.
Let our message now be clear: we call for the immediate end of these illegal attacks and release of unlawfully detained vessels and crews. The Houthis will bear the responsibility of the consequences should they continue to threaten lives, the global economy, and free flow of commerce in the region’s critical waterways. We remain committed to theinternational rules-based order and are determined to hold malign actors accountable for unlawful seizures and attacks.
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Cover Photo: Ian Taylor @carrier_lost
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FACT SHEET: U.S. at the United Nations in 2023
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield and the United States Mission to the United Nations (USUN) showcased American leadership at the United Nations, around the world, and across the country—advancing U.S. interests and delivering on Biden Administration policy goals.
AfricA-Related, New York
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield
FACT SHEET
December 30, 2023
UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS
Office of Press and Public Diplomacy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FACT SHEET: Showcasing U.S. Leadership at the United Nations in 2023
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield and the United States Mission to the United Nations (USUN) showcased American leadership at the United Nations, around the world, and across the country—advancing U.S. interests and delivering on Biden Administration policy goals.
In 2023, USUN advanced humanitarian relief efforts, including leading initiatives to combat global food insecurity, and worked to rally international cooperation to renew international resolve towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. In addition, USUN championed U.S. priorities on human rights and defended the core values of the UN Charter, including consistently standing up to Russia’s violations of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. USUN also managed challenges posed by the conflict in Gaza, both responding to Hamas’s atrocious terrorist attacks against Israel and promoting humanitarian assistance and civilian safety in Gaza.
What’s more, USUN worked with partners across the UN system to modernize its processes and workforce to achieve better results. That included launching new initiatives to increase the number of American citizens working at the UN, leading reform efforts to ensure the UN is fit for purpose, and advancing Biden Administration initiatives to bolster democracy, engage youth, and recruit a more diverse workforce that better represents the American people.
This year, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield took this agenda to the road, traveling to 12 countries and nine cities across the U.S. to make the case for U.S. foreign policy priorities.
In 2023, the U.S. Mission to the United Nations has:
Countered Threats to Peace and Stability While Fostering and Building Alliances
· Across multiple continents and conflicts, USUN led efforts to create and maintain peace – and hold those committing atrocities accountable.
· USUN spearheaded efforts to address the crisis in Haiti, helping to adopt a resolution – co-penned by the U.S. and Ecuador – to authorize a Multinational Security Support mission. This mission, led by Kenya, would provide critical international support for the Haitian National Police to address gang violence and pave the way toward long-term stability in the country. USUN also led efforts to strengthen the mandate of the Special Political Mission, the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). In December, the Security Council sanctioned four notorious gang leaders who have undermined peace and security in Haiti by unleashing unspeakable violence and suffering on Haitian citizens.
· USUN consistently pushed for Security Council unity in condemning the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK)’s reckless and dangerous behavior as the country launched multiple ballistic missiles — including at least five intercontinental ballistic missile launches— in violation of multiple Security Council Resolutions.
· During its presidency of the Security Council, USUN held the first Security Council open briefing on Sudan since the start of the conflict. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield traveled to the Chad-Sudan border to galvanize the international community to help protect civilians affected by the conflict.
· USUN and likeminded partners called for investigations into violations of UN Security Council resolutions resulting from Russia’s procurement of weapons and material from Iran and the DPRK.
· The United States led a high-level event focused on coalition-building to address the growing threat of synthetic drugs – and facilitated the drafting, negotiation, and consensus adoption of a General Assembly resolution to tackle the public health and security threats posed by synthetic drugs and weaken transnational criminal organizations.
· Following Hamas’ October 7th attacks against Israel, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and USUN advocated for increased humanitarian assistance into Gaza, as well as the inclusion of Israel’s right to defend itself, a condemnation of Hamas, and calls for the return of hostages in key UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions. All the while, the U.S. remained the leading supporter of the efforts of UNRWA and other humanitarian organizations on the ground in Gaza. In addition, the U.S. worked with other Council members to craft a humanitarian-focused resolution in the Security Council to help ensure humanitarian personnel and assistance, including fuel, food, medical supplies, and emergency shelter assistance, can reach the people of Gaza.
· As head of the U.S. delegation to the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Ghana, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield highlighted U.S. leadership and commitment to improving peacekeeping effectiveness through a series of financial and programmatic commitments.
· Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield worked to secure the unanimous adoption of a UN Security Council resolution on the financing of African Union-led peace support operations. This resolution outlines a framework for the use of UN funds to support the deployment of AU-led missions to promote peace and security across the African continent – and is a major steppingstone toward empowering AU missions to respond to Africa’s growing security challenges.
Continued to Bring Global Food Insecurity to the Forefront
· For Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s third Security Council presidency in August 2023, the United States again made combatting food insecurity a signature priority – becoming the only permanent member of the Security Council to devote its presidency to the same issue for multiple years in a row, an important signal and commitment.
· USUN spearheaded the passage of the first Security Council product addressing food insecurity in over five years, a Security Council Presidential Statement condemning the use of food as a weapon of war.
· In concert with USUN’s work on combatting food insecurity in the Security Council, nearly 100 UN Member States from around the world signed on to a U.S.-drafted communique on ending the use of food as a weapon of war.
· In response to Russia’s attacks on critical food infrastructure in Ukraine, the United States catalyzed multiple UN Security Council meetings to draw attention to the global impacts of such attacks and Russia’s threats against maritime security in the Black Sea. USUN also worked to continue diplomatic efforts to secure Black Sea routes to keep Ukraine’s grain flowing to food-insecure regions around the globe.
· In addition to USUN’s work in the Security Council and other UN fora, USUN brought this message to the world, including during travel to Mogadishu, Somalia, where Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield implored the international community to step up to avert famine in the Horn of Africa while announcing millions in new funding from the United States for Somalia.
Advanced Progress on Global Development and the Sustainable Development Goals
· The United States helped bring sustainable development to the top of the multilateral agenda, with USUN highlighting the importance of and commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals throughout the year at engagements around the world and country: from spotlighting the role of local actors at the Cities Summit in March, to outlining the impact of U.S. leadership in the development space at the Council on Foreign Relations in September.
· Ahead of the Sustainable Development Goals Summit in September 2023, USUN demonstrated the United States’ commitment to the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, at home and abroad. In the two years leading up to the Summit alone, the United States invested over $100 billion in Official Development Assistance. At the Summit, the United States joined the SDG Political Declaration to reinvigorate progress toward the SDGs, and Secretary Blinken articulated the U.S. commitment to leaving no one behind at the SDG Summit.
· During the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week, the United States spearheaded efforts to include strong language across three General Assembly Political Declarations on health: pandemic preparedness and response, universal health coverage, and the fight against tuberculosis.
· Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield, along with U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, co-led the U.S. delegation to the 2023 United Nations Water Conference that included 125 delegates. During the conference, the United States announced a $49 billion investment in the domestic and international water sector, which accelerates progress on Sustainable Development Goal Six: universal clean, safe, and affordable water and sanitation.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and USUN took the case for sustainable development around the world. In November, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield led the U.S. delegation to the Pacific Islands Forum hosted by the Cook Islands to reaffirm the United States’ commitment to the region and engaged with Pacific region leaders and stakeholders to galvanize further international cooperation on climate change and sustainable development. And in December, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield led the U.S. Delegation to the 10th Conference of the States Parties of the UN Convention against Corruption, held in Atlanta, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to anti-corruption efforts in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Put Human Rights at the Core of the International System
· USUN made defending human rights a signature priority during its Security Council presidency – making clear that the Security Council is a key multilateral venue to address human rights violations by highlighting ongoing violations of human rights in conflict zones with numerous civil society briefings and thematic events.
· In April, the Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution that called for the full, equal, meaningful, and safe participation of women and girls in Afghanistan. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield called for this resolution in January and USUN worked closely with Japan and the United Arab Emirates on its adoption, which also called on the Taliban to swiftly reverse its policies and practices restricting women and girls’ enjoyment of their human rights and fundamental freedoms, including those related to their access to education, employment, freedom of movement and participation in public life.
· Throughout the year, USUN repeatedly shined a light on the DPRK’s violation of human rights. In March, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield highlighted the issue with two events focused on exposing the human rights situation in the DPRK, first by meeting with women defectors and then by cosponsoring and co-leading a DPRK Arria Formula meeting with Albania. During the United States’ August presidency of the UN Security Council, the United States held the first open briefing in more than five years on the human rights situation in the DPRK.
· As antisemitism rose across the country and world, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield hosted leaders at the UN to support practical global efforts to combat antisemitism. The event featured keynote remarks by Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff. Throughout the year, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield frequently met with representatives of the Jewish and Muslim communities to discuss ways to counter both antisemitism and Islamophobia domestically and internationally.
· Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield advanced the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to strengthening the dialogue between U.S. officials and people of African descent by leading the U.S. delegation to the 2nd Session of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. In addition, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield traveled to Brazil to underscore U.S. support for reinvigorating the U.S.-Brazil Joint Action Plan to Eliminate Racial Discrimination and Promote Equality – marking the first cabinet-level official visit to Salvador since the JAPER was signed by then-Secretary Condoleezza Rice.
· USUN has consistently and continuously called for the release of hostages and political prisoners. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield invited Elizabeth Whelan – the sister of Paul Whelan, who is wrongfully detained in Russia – to attend a Security Council meeting presided over by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to highlight Paul’s lengthy and unjust detention. The Ambassador and the family of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich spoke to UN correspondents about Evan’s arbitrary detention in Russia. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield advocated for McClatchy reporter Austin Tice, who was abducted in Syria, World Press Freedom prize recipient Niloofar Hamedi who is still wrongfully detained in Iran, and former U.S. Embassy personnel who are being held in Yemen. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also met with family members of individuals held hostage by Hamas and other groups in the wake of the October 7th attacks.
· Throughout the year, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield used her travels to reaffirm the United States’s commitment to prioritizing global human rights issues. That included delivering a keynote speech in Costa Rica on strengthening democracy and human rights as part of President Biden’s Summit for Democracy.
· To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield visited the National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta, highlighted the United States’ commitment to the document at multiple UDHR anniversary events in New York, and celebrated the rededication of the Eleanor Roosevelt memorial the UN grounds.
Bolstered Key Humanitarian Programs in Africa
· Both at the United Nations and in visits to member states, Ambassador Thomas Greenfield reaffirmed the United States support for humanitarian initiatives in Africa – from health and nutrition to gender equality and refugee support.
· During Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s January visit to Somalia to review the humanitarian, economic, and security situation, she announced that the United States would provide $40 million in additional funding to address extreme food gaps, treat severe malnutrition in women and children, and combat the current outbreak of deadly diseases like measles and cholera.
· At the UN’s High-Level Pledging Event for the Horn of Africa in May, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield announced that the United States would provide $524 million in additional funding to mitigate the impacts of the record-setting drought in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.
· Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield visited eastern Chad in September to draw international attention to and support for the humanitarian crisis along the border with Sudan. During the visit, the Ambassador announced that the United States would provide an additional $163 million in humanitarian assistance to support the people of Sudan and its refugees in neighboring countries. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also announced U.S. sanctions against officials accused of violating human rights in Sudan.
Held Russia Accountable for its Unprovoked Invasion of Ukraine
· In the Security Council, the United States continued to hold Russia accountable for its aggression against Ukraine through meetings on Russia’s forced deportation of Ukrainian children, Russia’s violations of international humanitarian law, and Russia’s weaponization of the global food system. In the General Assembly, USUN led the overwhelming passage of a resolution on the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, outlining the principles underlying a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the region.
· Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield cultivated domestic and global coalitions, including on a bipartisan basis alongside the U.S. Congress, to rally the global community to sustain support for Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s war.
· Throughout the year, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and USUN addressed head-on the dangerous and destabilizing activities of the Wagner Group and other Russian proxies in Africa, including their abuses and massacres of civilians, their role in driving extremist recruitment, and the threat they pose to the safety and security of UN peacekeepers. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield raised awareness of Wagner’s activities during Security Council meetings, in discussions with African leaders, and by pressing the United Nations to report publicly on Wagner's human rights violations. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also engaged the African publics, particularly youth, on actions of these groups to extract wealth and foment political instability that undermines peace and prosperity on the continent.
Championed Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Principles
· Recognizing commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility as a hallmark of the Biden Administration and essential to truly advancing U.S. foreign policy, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield prioritized and delivered outreach campaigns to engage young Americans, especially from underrepresented communities and universities, to urge them to consider careers in diplomacy or public service. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield participated in dozens of briefings and meetings with students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, local high schools, and Model UN groups on U.S. foreign policy priorities, the UN, and multilateral organizations. USUN amplified the work of and collaborated with the UNA-USA Youth Observer to build a network of public servants that advance democratic values and the relevance of the UN in addressing global challenges. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also spoke at the William & Mary Charter Day Ceremony, where she encouraged students to pursue careers in public service.
· USUN emphasized representation with its Security Council Presidency programming, proudly bringing 12 civil society members to brief the Council, with more than two-thirds of those briefers being women.
· The Mission reflected the diversity of the United States in many of its events with the UN diplomatic and broader New York Community, including by hosting the Mission’s first Black History Month concert at the United Nations, a reception in honor of Indigenous Leaders at the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, an LGBTI+ Pride Month celebration, its first Diwali dinner, and its first music diplomacy event at which it featured U.S. Arts Envoy Matthew Whitaker.
· At the UN, the United States continued to lead efforts to advocate for LGBTQI+ issues. In the Economic and Social Council, the United States worked to preserve language on sexual orientation and gender identity in the text for a resolution on elections; more than 80 percent of the UN members voted in favor of the resolution during the December General Assembly plenary.
· USUN played a critical role in the first-ever official meeting on access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) for persons with disabilities during the 2023 Conference of States Parties for the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), USUN played a critical role in securing a reference to SRH in the biannual resolution, which was adopted by consensus.
· As co-chair of the UN Accessibility Steering Committee, USUN improved physical and digital accessibility at the UN for persons with disabilities and elevated the concerns of UN staff who face employment barriers due to their disabilities. USUN continues to hold the UN accountable for their accessibility shortcomings at UNHQ, including pushing for a rostrum lift, to make the UN General Assembly stage accessible to all.
Spearheaded UN Modernization and Reform Efforts to Make the UN More Effective, Representative, and Efficient
· Nearly eight decades since the founding of the United Nations, USUN has worked to ensure that the organization is built, staffed, and run to meet the current moment.
· USUN spearheaded efforts in the UN system on responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, emphasizing the need to protect human rights.
· Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and USUN led successful high-level campaigns for Americans to elected positions in the UN including Sarah Cleveland’s campaign for the International Court of Justice, and Amy Pope for Director General for the International Organization for Migration.
· As part of efforts to reform the UN Security Council, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and USUN leadership have continued to hold wide-ranging consultations with intergovernmental negotiation chairs, regional blocs, groups of Member States, individual Member States, and civil society to ensure all stakeholders are heard and involved in the process of Security Council reform.
· USUN led the way on peacekeeping reform, paving the way towards an agreement to provide assessed funding for the Peacebuilding Fund to prevent conflicts before they begin, a proven approach to identifying and addressing the root causes of conflicts will save lives and money.
· Following reports of fraud and mismanagement at the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS), USUN led efforts to improve oversight of UN funds and programs and strengthen audit and ethics offices.
· During December’s UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Accra, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield pledged millions of dollars to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of UN peacekeeping efforts and helped launch a first-of-its-kind women's body armor pilot project in partnership with Ghana and Zambia. This innovation is an investment in female peacekeepers – and in turn, an investment in the communities they protect.
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BOBI WINE Meets Omoyele SOWORE
Two political activists and Presidential candidates, Bobi Wine of Uganda and Nigeria's Omoyele Sowore met online recently during an interview with Africa-Related Report.
Africa-Related, New York
MEETING
Two political activists and Presidential candidates, Bobi Wine of Uganda and Nigeria's Omoyele Sowore met online recently during an interview with Africa-Related Report.
BOBI WINE - The People's President
Full Film
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BOBI WINE Documentary Screens at The Whitby New York
Following its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, and North American debut at the Telluride Film Festival, Bobi Wine: The People’s President screened to a select audience at The Whitby in New York City
Following its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, and North American debut at the Telluride Film Festival, Bobi Wine: The People’s President screened to a select audience at The Whitby in New York City
Oyiza Adaba, New York
Bobi Wine taking a bow
Full House at Bobi Wine Screening. Moderator David Fear of Rolling Stone Magazine, Robert ‘Bobi Wine’ Kyagulanyi, Barbara ‘Barbie’ Kyagulanyi, co-Director Moses Bwayo.
Multiple award winning documentary film Bobi Wine - The People's President screened at The Whitby New York on December 6, 2023. The screening was hosted by National Geographic and featured the famed musician turned-politician Robert ‘Bobi Wine’ Kyagulanyi, his wife Barbara ‘Barbie’ Kyagulanyi, co-Director Moses Bwayo; with the Q&A moderated by David Fear of Rolling Stone Magazine.
Oscar-winner John Battsek produced, while Moses Bwayo and Christopher Sharp directed the documentary which was among the 17 feature-length documentaries shortlisted for this year’s 39th IDA Documentary Awards. It won the prestigious best feature award on December 12, 2023.
Q & A Session of a story democracy, freedom and love. Video: Africa-Related
The film, which was acquired by National Geographic Documentary Films, is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+, and is free on Youtube for people living on the African continent. In a chat with AR Report, Nat Geo said the move was necessary in order bring equal viewing access to underserved communities globally. It further reaffirms its commitment to “bringing the world premium documentaries that cover timely, provocative and globally relevant stories from the very best documentary filmmakers in the world.”
Photos by Africa-Related
