Genocide Intervention Network: Have a Hand in Stopping Genocide

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First Steps up the Hill

GI-NET — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:28:36 GMT

Over the weekend, more than 1,000 anti-genocide activists were in attendance at the 2009 Pledge2Protect Conference at the Washington Hyatt. This morning, over 800 of these committed activists, including members of STAND and Carl Wilkens Fellows are at the Capitol to urge members of Congress to support the recommendations made in the Genocide Prevention Taskforce report.

800+ STUDENTS MARCH ON CAPITOL HILL AND MAKE HISTORY

Genocide Intervention Network — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 01:49:05 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Today, hundreds of activists will converge on Capitol Hill for the largest lobby day to prevent genocide in history. The lobby day and protest/rally caps off the last day of the Pledge2Protect conference. Convened by STAND, the student-led division of Genocide Intervention Network, and core partners the Save Darfur Coalition and Enough Project, the conference attended by close to 1000 activists featured training and education on the situations in Sudan, Burma and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

President Bashir Tests New Obama Policy on Sudan

Genocide Intervention Network — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:40:23 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - With the news that President Omar al-Bashir plans to travel to Turkey and Egypt in the coming days, President Obama faces the first test of his recently announced Sudan policy.

UN Suspends Support to Government Troops in Eastern DRC

GI-NET — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 06:11:52 GMT

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the DR Congo, MONUC, announced on Monday that it will be suspending its logistical and operational support to the government forces implicated in the killing of 62 civilians earlier this year.

Should Gration be fired? GI-NET responds

GI-NET — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 04:24:50 GMT

Today, The New Republic published an editorial calling for the resignation of President Obama's Special Envoy to Sudan, Major General Scott Gration. The editorial contends that the Special Envoy has an overly-optimistic or utopian approach to conflict resolution that may embolden the Sudanese government to continue its campaign of rape, displacement, and murder in Darfur or worse, expand its campaign back into South Sudan.

CWF: Bringing human rights to the nursing world

GI-NET — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 08:17:03 GMT

Over at the Enough Project, 2009 Carl Wilkens Fellow Sheila Davis has an excellent piece relating to her work with a Sudanese refugee named Hope. Davis recounts the harrowing glimpses into the violence Hope has experienced escaping to Chad and later the United States. As a Carl Wilkens Fellow, Davis has sought to bring an awareness for human rights the nursing community to inform its work with refugees like Hope as well as other patients. You can read the full piece here.

Sudan Policy Review Roundup, cont'd

GI-NET — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:02:57 GMT

When the Obama administration last week released its policy for the coming years for Sudan, the blogosphere was lit up with opinions on whether the policy represented an important step forward in ending the genocide in Darfur or could compromise progress. GI-NET had included some responses in a previous blog entry. Here are some additional responses:

Sudan Policy review roundup

GI-NET — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:04:02 GMT

It has been a day since the White House released its policy for engagement and peace in Sudan and responses are beginning to come in from the activist community as well as the blogosphere.

Genocide Monitor: Oct. 21, 2009

Genocide Intervention Network — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:07:00 GMT

DARFUR: Fighting resumes in the Jebel Marra region and the conflict in Darfur draws renewed attention from President Obama as the United States releases its new Sudan policy.

EASTERN BURMA: The U.S. releases its new Burma policy as tensions rise between Burma and China over the August fighting in northern Shan state.

AFGHANISTAN: Another suicide bombing rocks Kabul as the UN declared that September the second deadliest month for civilians in Afghanistan.

SOMALIA: While Al-Shabaab and Hisbul-Islam fight over control of the southern city of Kismayo, the numbers of Somali displaced continue to rise.

Sudan Policy - Promise of a New Frontier or Empty Rhetoric?

aneville — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 04:03:54 GMT

This morning, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, UN Ambassador Susan Rice and President Obama's Special Envoy released their plan for Sudan. Watch Genocide Intervention Network (GI-NET) Executive Director Sam Bell discuss the policy and then call 1-800-GENOCIDE to urge the President to implement the strategy.

Sudan Policy: GI-NET Executive Director Sam Bell responds

GI-NET — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 07:50:19 GMT

This morning the White House released its long-awaited Sudan policy to a cautiously positive reception from the major anti-genocide organizations. Genocide Intervention Network's own Executive Director Sam Bell recorded this message earlier today with a response to the policy itself as well as a call to action for activists. Please view the video and share it via Twitter, Facebook, and other social networking sites using the following shortcut link: http://bit.ly/DtfX6

Obama administration releases Sudan Policy

GI-NET — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 06:09:06 GMT

This morning, President Obama and his foreign policy team finally released their revised policy guidelines for Sudan at the State Department. After months of waiting, GI-NET and our partner organizations welcome the release of the Sudan strategy.

The policy, presented by Secretary Hillary Clinton, United Nations Ambassador Susan Rice and Special Envoy to Sudan Scott Gration, lays out three main strategic objectives necessary for a stable and peaceful Sudan.

Sudan Now Campaign Demands Obama Put Sudan Policy into Practice

Genocide Intervention Network — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 02:26:47 GMT

pending moderation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Sudan Now campaign, which comprises several human rights and anti-genocide groups, commends the Obama Administration for constructing a clear statement of U.S. policy in support of a sustainable peace in Sudan. However, the Administration’s diplomatic efforts to date have led member organizations to question whether the policy, as articulated today, will be fully implemented in the days ahead. Success will require President Obama, Vice President Biden and Secretary of State Clinton to live up to campaign promises and ensure that consequences are put into practice now for committing mass atrocities and undermining peace efforts.

Left Behind: gender-based violence in Darfur

GI-NET — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 10:31:22 GMT

Bec Hamilton has just posted an insightful article on The New Republic investigating gender-based violence in Darfur in the wake of the expulsion of aid groups and their readmittance earlier this year. The picture she paints is a grim one: despite Special Envoy Gration's insistence that aid operations were back to "near a hundred percent capacity," a huge gap exists in treating and responding to victims of rape and other forms of gender-based violence.

Hillary Clinton responds to violence in Guinea, “Egregious human rights violations.”

GI-NET — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 07:42:36 GMT

Violence and atrocious acts committed by the soldiers of the ruling government junta led by Captain Moussa Dadis Camara have prompted widespread international protest over the past few days.

Carl Wilkens fellow on USHMM Podcast

GI-NET — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 06:33:27 GMT

Carl Wilkens Fellow Lee Ann de Reus recently returned from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where she conducted interviews with 30 women who had been the victim of rape in the Congo's Kivu region. Lee Ann recently taped a podcast interview with the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum's Voices on Genocide Prevention and shared what she learned from this insightful experience.

To listen USHMM's interview with Lee Ann, please click here.

Somalia: The Presidents Waiting Game

GI-NET — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:42:13 GMT

Eight months into his first year as President of Somalia, Sheik Sharif Sheik Ahmed, has yet to establish himself as a legitimate stabilizer for the war torn country. Without 5,000 African Union troops, it would be possible that his federal government would lose control of the airports, ports and the presidential palace, Villa Somalia.

Rwandan war criminal apprehended in Uganda

GI-NET — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:04:03 GMT

The genocide in Rwanda may have ended more than 10 years ago, but justice for the victims is an ongoing process. Yesterday, Idelphonse Nizeyimana was arrested in Uganda and is being extradicted to Tanzania to stand trial for crimes against humanity committed during the Rwandan genocide.

Nizeyimana was an army captain and head of intelligence at Rwanda's ESO military training school leading up to and during the genocide. He is accused of forming special military units to carry out attacks on Tutsi targets.

“Calm” Returns to Kismayu.

GI-NET — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 08:08:45 GMT

After last week's declaration of war by Al-Shabaab, the militant group with ties to al-Qaeda that controls most of southern Somalia, attacked its former Hizbul-Islam allies in Kismayu.

Help us win $10 million for genocide prevention!

GI-NET — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 04:50:44 GMT

Google has created a contest to distribute $10 million between five ideas to change the world and genocide prevention is one of the finalists!

Keep the pressure on the White House!

GI-NET — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:43:36 GMT

Over the weekend, the Washington Post published an article following Special Envoy to Darfur Scott Gration's recent trip to the region and included a number of troubling quotes. Genocide Intervention Network responded with a petition, asking activists to sign on to pressure the President to engage more directly in the peace process in Sudan.

Sudan Advocacy Groups React To General Gration’s Statements to The Washington Post

Genocide Intervention Network — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 04:16:08 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On the eve of the Principals Meeting to review the Obama Administration's Sudan Policy, The Washington Post has published a devastating portrait of the U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, Major General Scott Gration, in action: Obama Administration Engages Sudanese Regime It Blasted, by Stephanie McCrummen

Tell President Obama: Don't leave the Sudan policy to Gration

Genocide Intervention Network — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 04:03:47 GMT

On September 29th, the Washington Post published a story about the deeply troubling strategy being pursued by President Obama's Special Envoy for Sudan, Scott Gration.

Obama's Mention of Sudan at UNGA Is a Step in the Right Direction

GI-NET — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 03:00:09 GMT

Yesterday in his first speech before the United Nations General Assembly, President Obama mentioned both conflict prevention and the situation in Sudan. The speech, entitled "Responsibility for Our Common Future," stressed that countries have both rights and responsibilities and that - especially today - interests among nations align, including the need for peace:

We’re looking for leaders

GI-NET — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 03:55:44 GMT

Genocide Intervention Network (GI-NET) is now accepting applications for the 2010 class of Carl Wilkens Fellows.

The Carl Wilkens Fellowship is a selective, 12-month program that provides emerging citizen leaders with the tools and training to shape US policy on genocide. Seeking to bridge the gap between thought and action in the anti-genocide movement, the Carl Wilkens Fellowship program works to develop effective leaders in communities across the United States.

Pledge2Protect Conference Registration is open!

GI-NET — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 07:30:40 GMT

Genocide Intervention Network, Save Darfur Coalition, and ENOUGH are proud to announce the Pledge2Protect Conference. Meeting November 6-9 in Washington, DC, Pledge2Protect will bring together hundreds of activists from all over the country to take workshops and hear from experts on Sudan and Darfur. The conference will be followed by a Lobby Day in which activists can take their asks straight to their elected representatives.

Genocide Monitor: Sep. 17, 2009.

Genocide Intervention Network — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 05:30:02 GMT

BURMA: Fighting erupts in Shan state. The government is also accused of human rights abuses in eastern Karen state and the continued forced conscription of child soldiers.

DARFUR: As the rainy season ends, new attacks are reported in Jebel Marra, while UNAMID undergoes a leadership rotation.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO: New reports detail possible war crimes committed by the CNDP and FARDC as the LRA continues its offensive against civilians in northern DR Congo.

AFGHANISTAN: The UN reports a rise in civilian casualties and it remains to be seen if the new NATO counterinsurgency directives will reduce the conflict's impact on Afghan civilians.

Calculating Civilian Casualties in Kunduz.

GI-NET — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 05:25:52 GMT

Ten days ago, a NATO airstrike on two fuel tankers in the northern Afghan province of Kunduz brought another in the northern Kunduz province raised further questions about NATO's tactical directives on airstrikes.

How War Has Changed Since 1939

GI-NET — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 09:05:42 GMT

Seventy years ago this week, the German Army began its invasion of Poland. On Tuesday, September 1, early morning ceremonies in Gdansk commemorated the moment when the battle cruiser Schleswig-Holstein fired on the Westerplatte district of the city, beginning the Second World War in Europe.

Iraq: Interlude or Return to Normalcy.

GI-NET — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 03:57:18 GMT

Last week, news out of Baghdad appeared to indicate that the Iraqi Government was taking steps to remove some of the concrete blast walls that have divided the capital over the last two years. The walls, taller versions of the Jersey Barriers used on divided highways in the United States, have provided protection from bomb blasts throughout the city as sectarian violence exploded.

Donate to GI-NET on your cell phone!

GI-NET — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 04:08:33 GMT

Genocide Intervention Network is pleased to announce its members can now support GI-NET from their cell phones. By texting the word "PROTECT" to 90999, you can give $5 to GI-NET to help us in our mission to end mass human rights atrocities.

You will be sent a text message asking you to confirm the donation by replying to this message a $5 charge will be added to your monthly cell phone bill. Here is what your donation can accomplish:

Suu Kyi Deserves Attention, But Rights Abuses Extend Far Beyond the Lady

GI-NET — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:47:44 GMT

Human Rights Abuses by the Regime Go Far Beyond House Arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi

News coverage of the trial of Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, known in Burma as "the Lady", has garnered media attention around the world. However, Suu Kyi's continued imprisonment is the tip of the iceberg in human rights abuses in Burma.

Video cameras in the Congo--mixed messages?

GI-NET — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 07:33:20 GMT

Over at Wronging Rights, posters Amanda and Kate have picked up on one of the odder initiatives listed in the US government's new $17 million plan to combat sexual and gender violence in Congo following Secretary of State Hilary Clinton's recent visit to Goma.

Sudan President interviewed by Time, PBS

GI-NET — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:37:53 GMT

It's been a tough year for genocidal heads of state. Since being indicted by the International Criminal Court on charges of crimes against humanity, Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir has been testing the waters to see where he can and cannot travel to without the risk of arrest and being handed over to the Hague.

A Sad Day for Democracy and Human Rights in Burma

GI-NET — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 02:30:32 GMT

Verdict in Aung San Suu Kyi Trial

Yesterday, a Burmese court sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi to another 18 months of house arrest for violating the terms of her prior house arrest. Suu Kyi, leader of the National League for Democracy (NLD) and Burma's most prominent pro-democracy advocate, has spent 14 out of the last 20 years under house arrest. Suu Kyi's trial, which began in late May, has been dismissed by President Barack Obama as a "show trial" and condemned by international human rights organizations.

Take Action for Burma and Celebrate the 8/8/88 Anniversary

GI-NET — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 06:34:19 GMT

The 8/8/88 Uprising

Genocide Awareness Day in Colorado

GI-NET — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 09:51:57 GMT

For readers who live in Colorado, yesterday was a special day for anti-genocide activists. Governor Bill Ritter signed a proclamation making August 5th Genocide Awareness Day in Colorado.

International Crisis Group Report - Congo: A Global Strategy for Disarming the FDLR

GI-NET — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 06:32:30 GMT

In 2000, when PetroChina had its initial public offering, one of the voices that reassured the public and investors about the company's operations belonged to Robert Hormats. Since that time, Mr. Hormats has become nominated for the position of Undersecretary of State for Economic, Energy and Agricultural Affairs.

State nominee involved in troubling IPO

Genocide Intervention Network — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 03:56:11 GMT

pending moderation

Washington, D.C. - August 3, 2009 - Genocide Intervention Network and Investors Against Genocide sent a letter to Senators John F. Kerry, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Richard G. Lugar, the Committee's Ranking Member, regarding the pending nomination of Robert Hormats as Undersecretary of State for Economic, Energy and Agricultural Affairs. In the letter, the anti-genocide groups raised concerns about the instrumental role that Hormats played in reassuring the public and the financial markets about PetroChina (NYSE:PTR) in preparation for that company's initial public offering in 2000.

GI-NET live-blogs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Meeting

GI-NET — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 02:29:46 GMT

Today, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee is discussing Darfur with Special Envoy to Sudan, Scott Gration. Genocide Intervention Network's Senior Advocacy Associate Allyson Neville will be live blogging the event to help you navigate the ins and outs of these senate hearings. GI-NET Executive Director Sam Bell will be joining via Twitter feed directly from the chamber.

STATEMENTS: International Court Decision on Abyei, Sudan

Genocide Intervention Network — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 03:58:36 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague issued a decision today on the boundary of Abyei - an oil-rich and contested region along the disputed internal border between the northern and southern regions of Sudan.

Video: We won't get fooled again

GI-NET — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 07:36:34 GMT

While serving in the United States Senate, President Obama, Secretary of State Clinton, and Vice President Biden were among the most active in Congress in calling for a response to the atrocities in the Darfur region of Sudan.

Our friends at Stop Genocide Now have used their expertise in video to create a reminder for the White House of the strong words our elected officials have used before and the great expectations those words have given the activist community that this administration will act to end genocide in Darfur and elsewhere.

Operating under uncertainty: A snapshot of this week’s work on Areas of Concern

GI-NET — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 04:49:06 GMT

In a recent post, we described changes to GI-NET's Areas of Concern, highlighting locations where our 2009 analysis indicates situations of ongoing "systematic and deliberate killing, severe torture, or rape of civilians on a massive scale." While our methodology is rigorous, conflict research -- especially when it focuses on civilian impact -- often deals with the unavoidable complications of limited information and sticky moral questions.

Maintaining Pressure: Congress Renews Burma Sanctions

GI-NET — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 04:42:21 GMT

Congress Passes Burma Sanctions Renewal Legislation

Last night the Senate passed House Joint Resolution 56 by unanimous consent. This resolution, which renews sanctions on the Burmese regime for a period of three years, was passed by the House of Representatives last week. With approval from both chambers, the legislation now awaits the President's signature before it can become law.

The Next Few Months Are Critical for Abyei

GI-NET — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 04:05:17 GMT

On July 22, a tribunal in The Hague issued a ruling on the boundary of the Abyei region in Sudan. Abyei is the oil-rich region that sits on the boundary of North and South Sudan and has been a focal point of violence and political disputes as both North and South have maneuvered to control its resources.

Burma Sanctions Renewed by House, Bill Expected on Senate Floor

GI-NET — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 03:37:07 GMT

House Passes Bill Renewing Sanctions on Burma

On Tuesday night the House of Representatives passed legislation renewing the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003. This legislation seeks to extend current sanctions on the Burmese regime for three year and maintains the ban on the importation of jade, rubies and other gems from Burma.

Burmese Regime to Release Political Prisoners?

GI-NET — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 03:07:38 GMT

Burma's head of state Than Shwe announced that his country is preparing to release political prisoners in advance of the national elections, which are to be held next year. This move comes at the request of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who visited the country earlier this month. Than Shwe did not say how many would go free out of the estimated 2,100 political detainees-many of whom were arrested after the pro-democracy rallies in 2007-nor did he

On Trial for Crimes Against Humanity, Charles Taylor Takes the Stand

GI-NET — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 05:35:55 GMT

This week the Christian Science Monitor likened the attitudes of Charles Taylor and Lubanga Dyilo-both on trial for crimes against humanity-to the theatrical defenses of Saddam Hussein and Slobodan Milosevic, who respectively referred to their trials as "comedy" and "farce."

Introducing the New Areas of Concern

GI-NET — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 08:41:37 GMT

As an organization devoted to preventing and stopping genocide, GI-NET focuses its attention on conflicts that include "the systematic and deliberate killing, severe torture, or rape of civilians on a massive scale." Our conflict selection process thus examines the level of civilian impact on the part of various actors as well as the overall scale of conflict. We rank the type of violence using a 1-6 scale describing whether civilians are harmed and whether this harm is deliberate. To summarize the scale, GI-NET uses essentially three major categories:

Carl Wilkens Fellow meets ICC Lead Prosecutor

GI-NET — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 04:26:12 GMT

Cory Williams, one of Genocide Intervention Network's Carl Wilkens Fellows recently was lucky enough to meet International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo at an event here in Washington, DC. She was kind enough to share the story with us and now we would like to share it with you.

In her own words, how Cory Williams met Mr. Ocampo:

It is amazing how life’s most memorable moments happen when you least expect them.

"The Reckoning: The Battle for the International Criminal Court"

kennedy@genocideintervention.net — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:33:07 GMT

Tonight, the critically acclaimed PBS series P.O.V. will air "The Reckoning: The Battle for the International Criminal Court" documenting the court's struggle to prosecute perpetrators of crimes against humanity while building its own credibility.

The film follows the creation of the ICC from its roots in the Nuremburg tribunals following the Second World War, through the Rome Statute creating the ICC to the Court's current attempts to prosecute the Lord's Resistance Army leadership, Congolese militia leaders and the President of Sudan, Omar al-Bashir.

U.S. and UK Take Action to Prevent Territory from Becoming Safe Haven for Genocidaires

GI-NET — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 07:44:44 GMT

War crimes suspects from Rwanda and the Balkans living in Britain could be tried in the United Kingdom, under plans outlined by Justice Secretary Jack Straw. Currently, under the UK's International Criminal Court Act 2001, UK nationals or residents suspected of war crimes and acts of genocide committed anywhere in the world since 2001 can be prosecuted in Britain.

UK Crimes Against Humanity Act of 2009

kennedy@genocideintervention.net — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 05:51:16 GMT

pending moderation

War crimes suspects from Rwanda and the Balkans living in Britain could be tried in the United Kingdom, under plans outlined by Justice Secretary Jack Straw.

Burma Sanctions Up for Renewal

GI-NET — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 03:20:49 GMT

Two identical resolutions have been introduced in the House of Representatives and Senate calling for the renewal of sanctions on the Burmese military junta under the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003, which is set to expire on July 29.

The resolutions, sponsored by Rep. Joe Crowley in the House side and Sen.

Will African ICC member states fulfill their Rome Statute obligations?

GI-NET — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 09:27:31 GMT

At the conclusion of the African Union Summit in Sirte, Libya, the AU released a resolution stating that member states of the African Union shall not cooperate with the ICC regarding the arrest of President Omar al-Bashir.

New York Times Highlights Johnny Strange and GI-NET

GI-NET — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 05:08:41 GMT

Yesterday, the New York Times highlighted Genocide Intervention Network in a story profiling Johnny Strange, the 17-year old who became the youngest person on record to climb the seven summits, including Mt. Everest. What is truly unique about his achievement is not only his age, but his commitment to raising awareness about genocide.

Read the New York Times article here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/05/sports/05climbers.html

Ban Ki-Moon Set to Visit Burma on Friday

GI-NET — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:18:19 GMT

On Friday, the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will travel to Burma, where the military junta clings to power and continues its major counter-insurgency campaigns against ethnic minorities in the east. The Secretary-General's top three priorities for the country are:

Failed States: a Slideshow from Foreign Policy

GI-NET — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 05:20:04 GMT

Last week, the Fund for Peace released the Failed States Index for 2009. The Failed States Index grades countries on criteria of social, economic, and political indications of state stability. All of Genocide Intervention Network's Areas of Concern appear in the top-25 most unstable countries on this list and Somalia has the distinguished title of topping the list two years in a row.

NY State Common Retirement Fund Divests

GI-NET — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 07:29:37 GMT

Earlier today, the New York State Comptroller announced that the New York State Common Retirement Fund is divesting its portfolio of all investments in a set of companies operating in Sudan with another set now being monitored. The move has been made in conjunction with the Conflict Risk Network, Genocide Intervention Network's project to mitigate risk to investors in companies engaged in conflict zones.

NEW YORK STATE COMPTROLLER WITHDRAWS STATE INVESTMENTS FROM COMPANIES IN SUDAN

Genocide Intervention Network — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 05:23:44 GMT

pending moderation

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, New York State Comptroller DiNapoli announced the withdrawal of investments in a set of companies operating in Sudan from the New York State Common Retirement Fund (Fund). DiNapoli also announced the decision to continue to monitor and engage another set of companies with Sudan-related operations. The actions to be undertaken by the Comptroller, particularly the latter, were developed in coordination with the Conflict Risk Network (CRN), a project of Genocide Intervention Network (GI-NET).

Time's Running Out on the CPA

GI-NET — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:24:29 GMT

A joint communiqué between the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) and the National Congress Party (NCP) was released last week at the conclusion of a conference on the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA).

Violence escalates ahead of US pullout from Iraqi cities

GI-NET — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 02:52:37 GMT

About 200 people died in a week-long series of blasts near Shiite sites, one week before US troops are scheduled to pullout from Iraqi cities. Violence has been dropping steadily since 2007, but the death toll for June has already exceeded the May levels, which saw the fewest deaths linked to insecurity since 2003.

17 YEAR OLD CLIMBS EVEREST TO STOP GENOCIDE

Genocide Intervention Network — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:45:57 GMT

pending moderation

Washington, DC - Earlier this month, Johnny Strange became the youngest person to climb the 'Seven Summits' (the highest peak on each continent). After reaching the summit of Mt. Everest, Johnny held up a sign that said 'Stop Genocide'.

GI-NET welcomes STAND leadership team!

GI-NET — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:15:49 GMT

Today marks the beginning of the retreat for the STAND Student Leadership Team. STAND, as the student-led division of Genocide Intervention Network, has been bringing genocide awareness to college campuses and communities all over the United States since 2004. Its leadership team consists solely of students volunteering their time to raise awareness and bring about an end to genocide and other mass human rights atrocities.

Johnny Strange on CBS News

GI-NET — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 05:10:15 GMT

17-year-old mountaineer and featured Person Who Moves the World, Johnny Strange has continued his mission to raise awareness to end genocide by appearing on the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric last night. In it, they discuss Johnny's climbs both to the summit of Mt. Everest and Vinson Massif, the tallest peak in Antarctica at age 12.

Reporting from on the ground in DRC

GI-NET — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 04:55:21 GMT

The US Holocaust Memorial Museum’s World is Witness blog has just posted a fascinating entry by Michael Graham as he explores the town of Duru, recently devastated by the LRA.

Genocide Monitor: Jul. 17, 2009

Genocide Intervention Network — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:38:04 GMT

DARFUR: As new aid agencies work to eliminate remaining aid gaps in Darfur, the Sudanese government and JEM rebels continue to fight in North Darfur.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO: Civilians in the east remain at risk of violence perpetrated by the Lord’s Resistance Army, FDLR rebels and soldiers of the Congolese military.

EASTERN BURMA: The Burmese Army and its proxies continue their offensive in Karen state as two new reports highlight the crimes committed by the government against civilians in the east.

SOMALIA: The UN reports that war crimes are regularly committed in Somalia, as fighting in Somalia continues.

Gareth Evans on Crimes Against Humanity and the Responsibility to Protect

GI-NET — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:30:34 GMT

In a recent speech in The Hague, International Crisis Group President and former Australian Foreign Minister, Gareth Evans highlighted the need to improve the international response to crimes against humanity.

Continued Emergency in Somalia

GI-NET — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:24:04 GMT

On June 22, Somali president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed announced that the country is under a state of emergency due to a deadly 6-week offensive by insurgents across the country.

In recent fighting, at least 300 people have been killed nationwide and the UN says over 122,000 people have been displaced from their homes since early May.

Johnny Strange plugs GI-NET on Tonight Show

GI-NET — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 03:41:47 GMT

Have you heard of Johnny Strange? At 17, this Malibu resident has become the youngest person in history to scale the tallest summits on each of the seven continents including the tallest peak in the world, Mt. Everest. Johnny has been using his amazing journey to raise awareness of genocide and inspire people to take action to end it.

Special Envoy speaks to the press

GI-NET — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 07:30:06 GMT

After a whirlwind tour of Sudan, sub-Saharan Africa, China, France, and England, Special Envoy Scott Gration had a press conference yesterday to announce the findings of this initial trip. He made points that have been advocated inside the Sudan and Darfur activist community for years, saying, "We need engagement to make a positive difference in Darfur. We need engagement to fully implement the Comprehensive Peace Agreement."

DARFUR ADVOCACY GROUPS URGE ADMINISTRATION TO UNVEIL SUDAN PLAN

Genocide Intervention Network — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 03:58:03 GMT

pending moderation

WASHINGTON - In a State Department briefing today Special Envoy to Sudan Major General Scott Gration referred to the situation in Darfur as the "remnants of genocide," and suggested that humanitarian aid to Darfur had been restored to almost the same level as before the government of Sudan expelled 13 aid agencies. In response, the Save Darfur Coalition, Enough Project and Genocide Intervention Network issued the following statement.

GENOCIDE INTERVENTION NETWORK’S ADVOCACY HOTLINE RECEIVES 25,000th CALLER

Genocide Intervention Network — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 03:43:37 GMT

WASHINGTON - Genocide Intervention Network today announced receiving the 25,000th caller to the 1-800-GENOCIDE hotline.

Stop Genocide Now’s i-ACT 8--see the latest events in Eastern Chad!

GI-NET — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 02:42:55 GMT

Stop Genocide Now has begun sending daily webcasts from Eastern Chad through their i-ACT 8 program. Over the next ten days, they will be uploading the stories and images of refugees throughout the region and checking in with many individuals they've made contact with over the years.

Renewed Exodus from Eastern Burma

GI-NET — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 05:42:59 GMT

Over the last week, fighting between the Burmese Army, its Democratic Karen Buddhist Army proxies and the Karen National Liberation Army has caused upwards of 3,500 civilians to seek refuge in Thailand.

According to the Burmese exile newspaper, Mizzima, at least 3,500 Karen civilians have fled recent fighting between the Burmese Army, also known as the Tatmadaw, its Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) proxies and the Karen National Liberation Army rebel group.

House Passes Legislation Supporting Genocide Prevention and UNAMID

GI-NET — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:58:26 GMT

Yesterday, H.R. 2410, the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, was passed in the House of Representatives. Key sections of the bill are designed to strengthen U.S. capacity to prevent genocide and address shortfalls in the resources needed for peacekeeping missions in Darfur and elsewhere around the world. Click here to see how your representative voted.

Donate your birthday to GI-NET this June!

GI-NET — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 01:48:40 GMT

Genocide Intervention Network is joining with Facebook to celebrate Causes' 2nd birthday in June, and you can too! If you have a June birthday, consider "donating" it by setting up a June Birthday Wish.

A Birthday Wish allows your friends to give money to our cause instead of giving you yet another coffee mug or gift card. The process is super easy – just go to Facebook Birthday Causes, confirm your birthday, and choose Genocide Intervention Network as your Birthday Cause!

GI-NET launches Conflict Risk Network

GI-NET — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:28:02 GMT

Today, GI-NET is launching a new service called the Conflict Risk Network (CRN). An outgrowth of our work on Sudan Divestment, CRN is a network of institutional investors, financial service providers, and critical stakeholders that will work to increase the level of responsible foreign investments. These investments will both protect civilians in conflict areas and improve returns for investors.

MAJOR INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS, FINANCIAL FIRMS JOIN FORCES TO FIGHT GLOBAL CONFLICT

Genocide Intervention Network — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:00:09 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, major institutional investors and asset management firms representing a combined total of over $400 billion in assets under management are taking a groundbreaking step to improve corporate responsibility in areas afflicted by severe conflict. They have joined forces as founding members of the Conflict Risk Network (CRN), a project of the Genocide Intervention Network (GI-NET).
CRN is a network of institutional investors, financial service providers and critical stakeholders whose combined efforts to mitigate conflict risk and increase responsible foreign investment work to protect civilians and improve investment returns.

Limited Edition Posters

GI-NET — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 05:16:27 GMT

Starting today, GI-NET will begin sales of our Areas of Concern poster.

More Calls for an Inquiry into Human Rights Abuses in Burma

GI-NET — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 07:07:13 GMT

In an editorial earlier this week, Sir Geoffrey Nice, Deputy Prosecutor for the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and Judge Pedro Nikken, former President of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, called for an investigation into human rights abuses committed by the Burmese government.

President Obama Speaks in Cairo

GI-NET — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 05:48:49 GMT

Earlier today in Cairo, President Barack Obama delivered a landmark speech in Cairo on how the United States can redefine their relationship with each other in order to confront shared challenges to global peace and security. While the President addressed a number of ongoing challenges, he failed to call for a new spirit of cooperation in Darfur.

In his speech, the President only makes one reference to the ongoing violence in Darfur.

STATEMENT: Obama Should Have Said More About Darfur

Genocide Intervention Network — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 04:28:45 GMT

pending moderation

WASHINGTON, DC - The Genocide Intervention Network, the Save Darfur Coalition, and the Enough Project today issued the following statement in response to President Barack Obama's remarks in Cairo:

Carl Wilkens on the USHMM podcast

GI-NET — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 05:39:12 GMT

Many of our members are familiar with Carl Wilkens, the sole American to remain in Rwanda for the duration of the genocide after all other Americans had been evacuated. By staying in Rwanda, Carl managed to save hundreds of lives and make a huge impact in protecting many Tutsis and moderate Hutus targeted by the genocide.

More Evidence of Civilian Suffering in the Sri Lankan “No-Fire Zone.”

GI-NET — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 08:39:37 GMT

On Friday, we reported on the new final casualty counts due to the civil war in northern Sri Lanka. While there has yet to be independent confirmation of these totals, there is evidence that civilians were affected by heavy artillery shelling during the last weeks of the conflict.

Final Tally in Sri Lanka

GI-NET — Fri, 29 May 2009 04:39:54 GMT

The Times, the British paper of record, reports that over 20,000 civilians were killed in the final days of the Sri Lankan conflict.

Burma Update: Suu Kyi Trial and Human Rights Abuses

GI-NET — Thu, 28 May 2009 04:36:36 GMT

Democracy on Trial

It has been nine days since the trial of Aung San Suu Kyi began in Burma. Proceedings are expected to end this week with only one witness being permitted to speak in Suu Kyi's defense. Last week, international observers were once again banned from the courtroom.

Genocide Monitor: May 28, 2009

Genocide Intervention Network — Wed, 27 May 2009 06:28:58 GMT

SRI LANKA: Overt fighting may have ended with the battlefield defeat of the LTTE, but restrictions on humanitarian aid to more than 200,000 civilians remain. The UN and EU call for investigation into war crimes.

DARFUR: As the rainy season nears, gaps in aid operations have yet to be addressed. The peace process continues between JEM and the Sudanese government, despite the sidelining of civil society.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO: As the rebels and the government continue to battle in the east, the United States Senate introduces legislation aimed at addressing conflict minerals, a main motivation behind the ongoing fighting.

South Sudan as deadly as Darfur?

GI-NET — Tue, 26 May 2009 08:53:00 GMT

Over the weekend, the ENOUGH Project highlighted a disturbing report published by the Associated Press. In the past three months, more than 900 people have been killed in south Sudan in the largest spike in violence since the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) was signed, ending the second civil war between north and south Sudan.

Is the fighting over in Sri Lanka? Frequently asked questions about the conflict

GI-NET — Fri, 22 May 2009 07:55:02 GMT

With the death of Velupillai Prabhakara the Sri Lankan government is claiming victory in a decades-long civil war against Tamil separatist group the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, but these events may not be the end of the conflict. Genocide Intervention Network has compiled answers to the most pressing questions activists have in the wake of the past week's major events:

Tamil resistance leader killed--the end of the LTTE insurgency?

GI-NET — Wed, 20 May 2009 03:36:46 GMT

Over the weekend, the Sri Lankan military effectively ended the war between the Sri Lankan government and the insurgency group known as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) both by routing out the remaining LTTE forces and by killing LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran.

Is Your Cell Phone Fueling Violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo?

GI-NET — Tue, 19 May 2009 03:55:26 GMT

A deadly war is raging in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and your cell phone has a guilty conscience. Cell phones require minerals such as tin, tungsten, tantalum and gold to work properly, minerals that are found in eastern Congo. Armed groups in the area are perpetrating atrocities and sexual violence while fighting for control of the valuable mineral

Divestment Supporter Nominated as Ambassador to China

GI-NET — Mon, 18 May 2009 05:41:24 GMT

This Saturday, President Obama nominated Utah Governor Jon Huntsman as the next Ambassador to the People's Republic of China. This nomination gives the Genocide Intervention Network hope that Governor Huntsman's record will be an asset for the United States as it works with China to facilitate a lasting peace in Darfur and the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

Genocide Intervention Network Announces New Leadership Structure, Board of Directors and Staff

Genocide Intervention Network — Mon, 18 May 2009 03:52:43 GMT

Washington, D.C - Genocide Intervention Network (GI-NET) is pleased to announce that former Executive Director Mark Hanis has been named President of GI-NET.

Aung San Suu Kyi Taken to Prison

GI-NET — Thu, 14 May 2009 03:39:13 GMT

Burma's democratically elected leader and Nobel Laureate, Aung San Suu Kyi, was taken to prison today. According to her lawyers, she is set to face trial on May 18th for charges related to breaking the conditions of her house arrest by having an unauthorized visitor.

ICC Update: Prosecutor Expects Genocide Charges; Bashir Denies Crimes

GI-NET — Thu, 14 May 2009 02:20:23 GMT

ICC Chief Prosecutor Expects Genocide Charges

International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo issued a statement on Monday further underscoring his belief that he has sufficient evidence to prove that President Omar al-Bashir is guilty of committing genocide.

The further adventures of Ahmed Haroun

GI-NET — Tue, 12 May 2009 04:15:47 GMT

While Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir is easily the most famous war criminal sought by the ICC, he is also hardly the first named in the Darfur conflict. Many readers may remember that a full year before the court issued a warrant for President Bashir's arrest, it issued warrants for the arrests of Janjaweed commander Ali Kushayb and then Minister of State for the Interior Ahmed Haroun.

Things Go From Bad to Worse

GI-NET — Mon, 11 May 2009 08:30:05 GMT

Horrific levels of violence continue in Sri Lanka's northern Vanni regions, with ongoing reports of shelling and airstrikes in and around the northern "No-Fire Zone." These weekend attacks have killed at least 378 civilians and may have caused the death of as many as one thousand.

Prospects for Peace in Sudan as Fighting Breaks Out in Chad

GI-NET — Thu, 07 May 2009 06:59:29 GMT

New Aid Agencies to Be Allowed in Sudan

Today, top officials in Khartoum declared that they will allow new international aid agencies back into Darfur. Although the Government of Sudan has refused to allow the 13 international aid groups they kicked out in March to return, they will allow in new humanitarian aid groups with new names and logos to enter the country.

Darfur Peace Talks Resume

The War in Sri Lanka Grinds On

GI-NET — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:45:44 GMT

A recently leaked UN document estimates that the casualty total from ongoing fighting in northern Sri Lanka has risen to nearly 6,500 deaths since January 2009, with an increase of more than 2,000 in the last month alone. As the civil war grinds onwards, there is increasing fear that any increase in military action will put the more than 50,000 people believed to be sheltering in the zone at greater risk.

Georgia Governor Signs Darfur Bill Into Law

GI-NET — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 07:33:01 GMT

On April 29th Georgia Governor Perdue signed the state's Darfur Contract Ban bill into law. This action makes Georgia the 4th state to prohibit contracts with problematic companies operating in Sudan. The effort was spearheaded by Georgia State Senator David Adelman--who introduced the bill--and the Darfur Urgent Action Coalition of Georgia (DUACG).

GENOCIDE INTERVENTION NETWORK CONDEMNS SRI LANKA VIOLENCE

Genocide Intervention Network — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 08:41:42 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Genocide Intervention Network today strongly condemned the ongoing killing of civilians in Sri Lanka's northern Vanni region and urges all sides to refrain from actions that will lead to further violence.

Mia Farrow Goes on Hunger Strike and Promotes 1-800-GENOCIDE

GI-NET — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 05:39:12 GMT

Yesterday, Darfur activist Mia Farrow began a 21-day hunger strike in solidarity with the people of Darfur. Appearing on Larry King Live last night, Farrow encouraged viewers to take action by calling 1-800-GENOCIDE (1-800-436-6243), the Genocide Intervention Network's Anti-Genocide Hotline.

Spotlight on an Activist

GI-NET — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 06:35:08 GMT

Congratulations to Rachel Harmon and the students of Spring Lake Area Learning Center, recipients of the Minnesota Student Service Award for their work on raising awareness of the continuing genocide in Darfur.

Genocide Monitor: Apr. 24, 2009

Genocide Intervention Network — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 09:05:30 GMT

SRI LANKA: The Sri Lankan government and the LTTE appear to be preparing for a final battle as over 50,000 civilians remain trapped between the belligerents.

DARFUR: The United States Government calls for a resolution to the humanitarian expulsions and Special Envoy Gration expects a plan to be in place by May 9th.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO: The situation in the DR Congo remains fluid as attacks by the FDLR and the LRA continue.

In observation: Holocaust Remembrance Day

GI-NET — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 10:01:51 GMT

On this day in 1951, Israeli Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion signed into law the inaugural observance of what has become a national memorial day for Israel and an international day of remembrance for the six million Jews murdered between 1933 and 1945 by the Nazi German government during the Holocaust, or Shoah in Hebrew.

The latest casualty of the Somali pirates: food aid

GI-NET — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 04:41:08 GMT

Change.org Humantarian Relief blogger Michael Kleinman has posted an interesting link between the increase in Somali piracy and aid work in Sudan:

As many readers may be aware, recent months have seen a dramatic rise in piracy off the coast of Somalia. This embattled country, one of the Genocide Intervention Network's Areas of Concern, has been in a near-constant state of anarchy and civil war since 1991. Along the coast, many armed groups have turned to hijacking ships crossing through the Gulf of Aden and holding either the ships or their crews for ransom. In 2008 alone, Somali pirates made more than $150 million from ransoms.

The Beginning of the End in Sri Lanka?

GI-NET — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 07:48:03 GMT

Even though more than 100,000 civilians remain trapped in the "no-fire zone" in northern Sri Lanka, the situation appears to be headed towards a showdown between the LTTE and the Sri Lankan Army in those areas.

Donate Today to Make a Tangible Difference in Burma

GI-NET — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 08:18:32 GMT

About the Situation

The Burmese regime, which has ruled the country since 1962, continues major counter-insurgency campaigns which have led to widespread mass atrocities against the ethnic minority civilians of eastern Burma. This violent campaign to suppress ethnic rebel groups has left more than 650,000 people internally displaced and forced more than 700,000 Burmese to seek refuge abroad.

Urgent Action from Investors Against Genocide

GI-NET — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 07:08:23 GMT

Our friends in Investors Against Genocide have been working tirelessly to divest investment management companies of mutual funds that are funding the genocide in Darfur. If you are a customer of Vanguard, they have a unique and timely opportunity for you to take action to divest this company's assets.

From Investors Against Genocide:

Senator Kerry Arrives in Sudan

GI-NET — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 04:07:55 GMT

Yesterday, April 15, 2009, United States Senator John Kerry landed in Khartoum, Sudan. The Senator is leading a three day congressional delegation to the country. The purpose of the trip is to explore solutions for the Darfur crisis and ensure full implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

Be the 25,000th Caller on 1-800-GENOCIDE and Win

GI-NET — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 03:53:28 GMT

Be the 25,000th caller on 1-800-GENOCIDE and win the opportunity to record the hotline introduction message. Your message will rotate with the introductions of celebrity endorsers, Mia Farrow and Zach Braff.

April 29th, the 100th day of the Obama Administration, is quickly approaching. Help us reach 25,000 calls by day 100. Will you be the 25,000th caller and win the chance to have your voice on the hotline? Call today.

About the Hotline

More obstacles on the road to peace

GI-NET — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:13:01 GMT

Darfur rebel group the Justice and Equailty Movement (JEM) has rejected initiatives from both Egypt and Libya to restart peace talks with the Sudanese government, according to the Sudan Tribune. JEM walked out of the most recent round of talks in Doha, Qatar after Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir expelled 13 aid groups from Darfur the same day a warrant for his arrest was issued by the International Criminal Court.

All Is (Reportedly) Quiet on New Year’s Day

GI-NET — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 07:56:08 GMT

In celebration of his country's New Year's festivities, Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa has declared a two-day ceasefire, ostensibly to allow civilians to evacuate the conflict zone in the northern Vanni area. As the ceasefire began this morning, it is too early to determine its current success or prospects for extension beyond the 48-hour time period.

Too Busy to Protect Civilians?

GI-NET — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:24:44 GMT

How much of a priority is the United States willing to make Darfur?

What do you think of our new look?

GI-NET — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 04:15:50 GMT

It has been nearly two years since the Genocide Intervention Network last updated the look and feel of its website. In that time, we've seen the proliferation of social networking, many innovations in design, and an entire family of anti-genocide organizations joining the mission to end mass human rights atrocities.

To keep GI-NET apace with all these developments, we've launched an initiative to create a brand new site to better provide you, the activist, with the tools and information you need to make this mission a success. We are hoping to launch this new site over the summer.

What the Future Holds

GI-NET — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 10:08:36 GMT

Today, ceremonies commemorating the Siege of Sarajevo and the first killings of the Rwandan genocide are taking place in Sarajevo and Kigali as part of Genocide Prevention Month. As one remembers what atrocities occurred in these locations more than fifteen years ago, one should also remember the progress made over the past decade.

Participate in Genocide Prevention Month!

GI-NET — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 06:43:36 GMT

April is Genocide Prevention Month. So far, we have held kick off events in Washington, D.C. and New York where participants viewed an excerpt from The Last Survivor, a documentary produced by Carl Wilkens Fellow Michael Pertnoy and Michael Kleiman. Now you can view a portion of the film, which follows the story of four survivors of four different genocides as they continue with their lives and become advocates against genocide.

Diplomatic Travels: Bashir in Saudi Arabia and Gration on His Way to Sudan

GI-NET — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 02:34:08 GMT

Bashir's "defiance" tour continued with a stop in Saudi Arabia earlier this week. The trip is meant to show Bashir's strength in the face of the ICC decision to issue an arrest warrant for his arrest. However, some challenge that at home Bashir's hold on power is in an increasingly fragile state.

Cambodian genocide suspect apologizes for his role in crimes.

GI-NET — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:37:59 GMT

Testimonies began this week at the trial of Kaing Khev Iev, better known as Duch, for his involvement with the Cambodian genocide from 1975-1979. This is first trial of a Khmer Rouge official suspected of involvement with the Cambodian genocide. Just three days into the trial, Duch apologized today for his role in the killings—Duch ran Tuol Sleng prison, where at least 12,000 men, women and children were tortured and killed.

SGN returns to the refugee camps

GI-NET — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 05:27:34 GMT

With Sudan expelling aide organizations from Darfur, now more than ever before it is critical to know the situation on the ground in the refugee camps and the voices of the Darfuris displaced by the conflict. Over the past week, Stop Genocide Now (SGN) has been in Chad as part of their seventh iAct mission to the refugee camps along the Chad/Sudan border.

Duch in the Dock

GI-NET — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 09:51:30 GMT

While Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir ignores the ICC arrest warrant in Doha, Qatar, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, the wheels of international justice are slowly turning for others accused of crimes against humanity.

Tightening the Screws: March Economic Advocacy Successes

GI-NET — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 09:49:53 GMT

On December 31, 2007, President Bush signed the Sudan Accountability and Divestment (SADA) into law. SADA contains a provision that prohibits companies operating in problematic sectors of the Sudanese economy--oil extraction, mineral extraction, power production, and military--from contracting with the federal government. SADA also authorizes states to do the same.

Bashir's Defiance Tour

GI-NET — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 05:31:14 GMT

Following his trip to Eritrea, Sudanese President Bashir has continued his international tour with trips to Egypt and Libya. The Sudanese President has conducted these trips in spite of the arrest warrant for him from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Eritrea, Egypt, and Libya are not party members of the ICC.

Take our Burma Challenge

GI-NET — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 02:26:33 GMT

Help us Raise $50,000 and protect 70 villages in eastern Burma

In 2009, GI-NET launched its first civilian protection project in eastern Burma-a Civilian Radio Network that helps ethnic minorities who have been targeted by the Burmese government receive early warning messages and escape impending attack by the Burmese military.

To help us expand our work in eastern Burma, the Echoing Green Foundation has issued a $25,000 matching grant challenge.

Please help us meet this match by making an online gift to our Burma Challenge today!

Bashir steps out...to Eritrea

GI-NET — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 05:07:54 GMT

Sudanese President and wanted war criminal Omar al-Bashir took his first trip abroad since a warrant was issued for his arrest by the ICC. This trip partially answers the question of how a sitting head of state who has a warrant out for his arrest from the Internation Criminal Court would continue to take diplomatic excursions.

Dark Clouds on the Horizon

GI-NET — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 10:26:14 GMT

The situation for civilians in Sri Lanka continues to deteriorate and former UN special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi warned that the increasing severity of the humanitarian crisis in the country's northern region has brought the country to the edge of catastrophe.

Profile: Special Envoy to Sudan Scott Gration

GI-NET — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 08:50:27 GMT

On March 18^th, 2009 the Obama administration announced the appointment of J. Scott Gration as Special Envoy to Sudan. The announcement follows weeks of pressure from Darfur advocates like you.

The Need for Humanitarian Access, a Special Envoy and a Way Forward

GI-NET — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 02:59:14 GMT

Bashir gives Humanitarian Aid Groups One Year

On Monday, President Bashir announced that he wanted all aid groups operating in Sudan out within a year. This statement followed the March 4th expulsion of 13 international humanitarian aid groups. Tuesday, Sudan's state minister for humanitarian affairs Ahmed Harun, clarified the position. According to Harun there will be no mass expulsion. Rather, the Sudanese government wants to see a "Sudanization" of humanitarian aid. The intention is to "phase out" international organizations until they take a background role.

A Place for Activism

GI-NET — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 04:12:45 GMT

Since the ICC Indictment of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on March 4, and the expulsion of aid groups from Sudan, there has been a lot of activity from the Darfur activists in the United States. We have written letters to Congress, called 1-800-GENOCIDE, and held vigils in Los Angeles, New York and Boston to inspire our leaders to protect the people of Darfur. Today, with President Obama's appointment of a special envoy to Sudan, we can see that activism pays off.

Kidnapped MSF staff released

GI-NET — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:19:10 GMT

After some confusion over the weekend, aid group Doctors Without Borders (MSF) confirmed that four staff members kidnapped last week in Darfur have been released. The staff members kidnapped included an Italian doctor, French administrator, Canadian nurse and Sudanese staffer.

Outraged in LA

GI-NET — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 05:36:22 GMT

The Government of Sudan has now expelled 13 international aid agencies and 3 Sudanese aid groups from Darfur, cutting off the humanitarian lifeline to over 1 million people. Are you outraged? We are, and so are tens of thousands of people across the United States who are joining forces and calling for the U.S. to take a stand for the people of Darfur.

Aid Workers Kidnapped in Darfur

GI-NET — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 06:26:17 GMT

Five aid workers with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, were kidnapped at gunpoint today from the MSF Belgium office in Darfur.

The Los Angeles Times Interviews

GI-NET — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:56:33 GMT

Since the International Criminal Court issued its warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, the Los Angeles Times was able to interview two senior members of the Sudanese political scene, First Vice-President Salva Kiir and opposition politician Hassan al-Turabi and gets their thoughts on the recent ICC decision.

The Case in Darfur: Is the ICC Anti-Africa?

GI-NET — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 06:29:46 GMT

About the ICC
The Darfur Referral and Members of the African Union
Is the ICC Anti-Africa?

About the ICC

The Greater Meanings of the ICC Arrest Warrant

GI-NET — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:44:48 GMT

While the international community has begun to see the reaction to the ICC's issuance of an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on counts of crimes against humanity and war crimes, most notably with the expulsion of sixteen aid agencies from Sudanese soil, the longer-term effects of the warrant are yet unclear.

Congressional Statements on the ICC Announcement

GI-NET — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 07:10:09 GMT

Several members of Congress have issued official statements in support of the ICC's decision to issue a warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir. They are:

Reaction to the ICC Announcement

GI-NET — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 09:58:33 GMT

It is less than twelve hours after the International Criminal Court announced that it was issuing an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir and the ruling's impact is already being felt around the world.

After today's announcement from The Hague, the international community has begun to respond to the arrest warrant for President al-Bashir, in ways that can be considered good, bad and ugly.

Sudan revokes aid licenses of 6 agencies

GI-NET — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 05:54:05 GMT

Following hours after the announcement that the ICC has issued a warrant for the arrest of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, the Sudanese government has revoked the licenses of 6 aid organizations. What this means for the operations of these agencies on the ground remains to be seen, but likely their movements will be restricted and they may be forced to remove personnel from Sudan entirely.

Breaking - ICC Issues Arrest Warrant

GI-NET — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:34:01 GMT

The International Criminal Court said Wednesday it has issued an arrest warrant for Sudan's President Omar al-Beshir for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

Bashir is charged with seven counts of crimes against humanity and war crimes. The warrant does not mention genocide, but the court may issue an amended warrant to include that charge later, ICC spokeswoman Laurence Blairon said.

The ICC Al-Bashir warrant--you can watch the press conference live!

GI-NET — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 08:18:56 GMT

The International Criminal Court has posted a link that will host its press conference tomorrow on the arrest warrant of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir. After months of speculation, at 12:45 GMT (7:45 AM EST), ICC Spokesperson Laurence Blairon will announce whether the Court has approved a warrant for the arrest of al-Bashir on charges of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

The Darkest Part of the Congo

GI-NET — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:01:41 GMT

On January 27, 2009 FDLR rebels raped a woman and her nine-year old daughter in the Masisi region of the Congo's North Kivu province. These two rapes add to the more than 10,000 that were committed in North Kivu in 2008. Despite these grim numbers, there is increasing hope for the survivors of gender-based violence in the DR Congo, particularly when they are able to reach Panzi hospital in Bukavu, South Kivu.

Rwandan Troops Withdraw after Congo "Unity" Mission

GI-NET — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:32:20 GMT

On February 26, 2009, Rwandan troops began pulling out of eastern Congo after a month long joint operation with the Congolese Government known as "Umoja Vetu" or "Our Unity" (photos).

Politics of Unity

Joint Resolve Uganda/GI-NET Conference Call

GI-NET — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 04:15:26 GMT

On Thursday, February 19, the Genocide Intervention Network held a joint conference call with Resolve Uganda to provide additional information about the Lord's Resistance Army threat. During the call, GI-NET's education associate, Josh Kennedy and Resolve Uganda's senior policy analyst, Paul Ronan, discussed the regional problems posed by the LRA and what can be done to end the immediate violence and ensure a long term peace.

You, Clooney and $1

GI-NET — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:53:19 GMT

To mark Day 25 of the Obama administration, I was one of more than 700 GI-NET members who called Secretary of State Clinton through the 1-800-GENOCIDE hotline to demand the appointment a special envoy to Sudan. We kept her phone ringing off the hook for almost three days straight!

Expect an ICC Ruling.

GI-NET — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 08:20:57 GMT

Today in The Hague, the International Criminal Court said that it will issue its ruling on an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on March 4, 2009.

In Darfur, a school called Obama

GI-NET — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:55:37 GMT

On a recent trip to Darfur, Nicholas Kristof and George Clooney visited a school house in a refugee camp that the children had named "Obama." Meeting the displaced students who attended the school, the men were surprised to hear them talk about what they wanted to be when they grow up.

Cambodian Genocide Trials Begin

GI-NET — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 02:02:22 GMT

On Wednesday--three years after the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) was inaugurated--the pre-trial of Kaing Guek Eav came to an end. Eav was the former commandant of the notorious S-21 prison in Phnom Penh, also known as Tuol Sleng. It is estimated that, of the 17,000 people imprisoned at S-21, less than 20 survived.

Good Search, Stop Genocide

GI-NET — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 04:57:54 GMT

Want to support GI-NET's anti-genocide work but don't have a lot of funds? Check out this incredibly easy fundraiser-Good Search.

Just download the Good Search engine on your toolbar and select GI-NET as your charity of choice-every time you search, GI-NET receives a donation.

Sudan Peace Agreement in the Works Despite Continued Skepticism

GI-NET — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 03:57:16 GMT

Agreement of Confidence and Goodwill Signed

Yesterday in Doha, Qatar, the government of Sudan (GoS) and the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) rebel group signed an Agreement of Confidence and Goodwill, paving the way for peace talks. The United States and the United Nations welcomed the agreement, but remain cautious.

Ringing Off The Hook

GI-NET — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 04:35:44 GMT

Last Friday, February 13, while Secretary of State Clinton was planning her upcoming trip to the Far East, holding a conference call with the national press and preparing remarks for her appearance at the Asia Society in New York.. While she was working on these tasks, she was also receiving one call per minute from the public to urge the Obama administration to appoint a high-level Special Envoy to Sudan, to build on the efforts made by the outgoing emissary, Ambassador Rich Williamson.

ICC issues arrest warrant? Not yet.

GI-NET — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 03:54:42 GMT

Yesterday the New York Times published a piece claiming that the judges at the International Criminal Court had decided to issue an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir. The ICC has since issued a statement indicating that no such decision has been made--there is currently no warrant out for the arrest of al-Bashir.

Somalia Update

GI-NET — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 01:06:24 GMT

On February 7, 2009 the newly-elected President of Somalia, Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, arrived in the war-torn capitol of Mogadishu. President Ahmed was elected in January by the exiled government operating out of Djibouti.

DARFUR GROUPS: RESOLVING SUDAN CRISIS MUST BE TOP PRIORITY FOR FOREIGN POLICY NOMINEES

Genocide Intervention Network — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 06:48:16 GMT

WASHINGTON - The Enough Project of the Center for American Progress, the Save Darfur Coalition and the Genocide Intervention Network today applauded President-elect Obama's selection of a foreign policy team with a strong Sudan record and called on the nominees to make ending the Darfur genocide a top and immediate priority.

Former GI-NET intern nominated for national volunteer award!

GI-NET — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 03:10:32 GMT

Our regular readers may remember the story of Matthew Heck, a student from Wichita, Kansas who ran a 1,300-mile relay with a half dozen friends from Kansas to Washington, DC to raise awareness of the genocide in Darfur. We had the privilege of hosting Matthew as an intern once he arrived in Washington and have been singing his praises ever since.

The FDLR Begins To Return To Rwanda.

GI-NET — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 04:30:50 GMT

Despite the continued fear of renewed attacks by LRA rebels and CNDP troops in northern and eastern Congo, a recent offensive by a joint Rwandan-Congolese force may be helping to eliminate the threat of FDLR militia members in North and South Kivu.

Tracy McGrady: Basketball, war, and helping kids in Africa

GI-NET — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 06:26:23 GMT

Tracy McGrady on Darfur

February 5, 2009 11:55 AM

UN Envoy Gambari Ineffective in Burma

GI-NET — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 01:28:21 GMT

Ibrahim Gambari, the United Nations Envoy to Burma, made his fifth visit to the country earlier this week. His four day trip included meetings with Prime Minister Thein Sein and Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the National League for Democracy (NLD).

Khartoum threatens attacks on Darfur village while Washington hesitates. Take action now!

GI-NET — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 14:26:05 GMT

Yesterday, we reported on the urgent situation in Muhajiriya, South Darfur, where the government of Sudan is currently building up forces in preparation for a major offensive, placing the town's 30,000 citizens in immediate danger.

Khartoum has requested that UNAMID - the protection force charged with protecting civilians and monitoring a ceasefire - leave the town, giving the international community clear warning about its intentions.

Under Fire in Sri Lanka

GI-NET — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 08:15:00 GMT

Sri Lankan civilians have been repeatedly shelled during fighting in the northeastern district of Mullaitivu. Over the past two weeks, more than 250 civilians have been killed and internationally-run hospital facilities and government-designated ‘safe zones' have come under repeated attack.

Even Worse Than We Thought:

GI-NET — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:13:41 GMT

LRA attacks in Congo and Sudan tops the world's list of deadliest conflicts for civilians

Hundreds of Civilians Evacuated from Battle Zone in Sri Lanka

GI-NET — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:34:36 GMT

The United Nations announced the evacuation of hundreds of civilians caught in the crossfire between Sri Lankan troops and Tamil Tiger rebels. On its second attempt in three days, the UN convoy was finally able to escape the battle zone during a brief lull in fighting.

One Small Step

GI-NET — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 05:39:19 GMT

History was made this morning in The Hague, Netherlands when former Congolese warlord Thomas Lubanga appeared before the International Criminal Court's Trial Chamber I, officially opening the ICC's first trial.

A New Threat to Civilians in the DRC – The Lord’s Resistance Army

GI-NET — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 08:54:17 GMT

Despite the fall fighting in North Kivu and the continued presence of Hutu extremist militias in eastern Congo, the largest and fastest killer of civilians in the DRC is the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), who have brutally killed more than 620 people since September.

The number of civilians killed by the LRA is as roughly as many as have been killed by all other actors in the DRC throughout 2008. This means that the LRA is one of the newest, and fast becoming the largest, threat to civilians in the eastern DRC.

Good News in North Kivu

GI-NET — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 05:17:33 GMT

This morning, January 23, CNDP rebel leader Laurent Nkunda was arrested by Rwandan troops after fleeing North Kivu. The arrest, coupled with the recent ceasefire between the government and a CNDP faction under Bosco Ntaganda, may help make progress in the peace process in eastern Congo.

UN Ambassador-Designate and Darfur

GI-NET — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 06:39:21 GMT

UN Ambassador-Designate, Susan Rice, spoke passionately yesterday on the issue of Darfur during her confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Rice has long been an outspoken advocate for more significant action to protect civilians in Darfur. She has written several reports on the subject, describing U.S. response to these atrocities as "coupled generous humanitarian assistance with unfulfilled threats and feckless diplomacy." Responding to Senator Robert Menendez's question about possible U.S.

Getting Results

GI-NET — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 07:58:07 GMT

On Monday, you flooded the phone lines on Capitol Hill asking Senators to make sure Hillary Clinton outlined her plans for Darfur during her confirmation hearing for Secretary of State.

Help genocide issues make Change's top ten!

GI-NET — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 08:26:09 GMT

Readers may recall our recent blog on the Change.org's Ideas for Change in American competition. Visitors to Change's site may submit ideas they believe will change America and the world for the better. Save Darfur Coalition President Jerry Fowler submitted the "peace surge" espoused by GI-NET, SDC, and ENOUGH Project and we would like to see this idea make the finals.

The editor of the "Stop Genocide" forum at Change.org sent out the following request:

Sounding the Alarm Again on Darfur

GI-NET — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 04:05:24 GMT

Yesterday, Secretary of State-Designate Hillary Clinton faced questioning during her confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Senator Russell Feingold, Chair of the Africa Subcommittee, asked Clinton about Darfur and the Administration's plans to implement a "bold and comprehensive approach to Sudan."

Lasantha Wickramatunge: April 5, 1958 – January 8, 2009

GI-NET — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:51:01 GMT

Some of our readers may be familiar with Lasantha Wickramtunge: as a journalist and editor-in-chief of the Sunday Leader, a liberal Sri Lankan newspaper that frequently featured editorials condemning government violence on the Tamil population made in the name of ending a brutal civil war.

Fractures in the Somali Insurgency?

GI-NET — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 04:13:12 GMT

It has been ten days since Ethiopian troops in Somalia began to withdraw and it appears that factional fighting between Islamist militias has already begun in the town of Guriel, north of Mogadishu.

Make a Change in Just Three Minutes.

GI-NET — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 03:09:02 GMT

On January 13, 2009, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold a hearing on Secretary of State-Designate Hillary Clinton. By calling 1-800-Genocide today, you will help us send a strong message to the incoming administration on the need to end the Darfur genocide.

Bush's Last Stand on Darfur

GI-NET — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 02:57:50 GMT

The Bush Administration announced that they had approved the airlift of equipment for the undermanned and underequipped UNAMID force. Monday's announcement was made by Bush's National Security Advisor, Stephen Hadley.

Breaking news: bombing in North Darfur

GI-NET — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:15:55 GMT

Reports are coming in of an Antonov bomber on a bombing campaign right now in the regions of Anka and Donkey Housh in North Darfur. The reports are being relayed by Darfuri community leader Mohamed Suleiman of California.

According to Mohamed:

Vote for genocide issues in "Ideas for Change in America"

GI-NET — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 01:57:05 GMT

"Ideas for Change in America" is a nationwide competition that aims to identify and create momentum around the best ideas for how the Obama Administration and 111th Congress can turn the broad call for "change" across the country into specific policies. The project enables anyone to submit an idea of 250 words or less and vote on ideas from across the country.

The Capture of Kilinochchi

GI-NET — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 03:58:47 GMT

The Sri Lankan government offensive against the LTTE continues as government forces have captured the Tigers' de facto capital of Kilinochchi and advanced on the LTTE's last remaining jungle redoubts.

Top Ten Statements on Darfur from 2008

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 06:07:23 GMT

From Change.org's Stop Genocide blog.

Darfur was big news in 2008, from the focus on China and the Olympics, to the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigations, to the U.S. presidential elections, and beyond. Below is a round-up of the top ten most important statements on developments in Darfur in 2008.

Follow the link for the full list, but in case your attention span is as short as mine, here's a summary:

Can Somalia Get Worse?

GI-NET — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:48:17 GMT

Even though violence in Somalia has been ongoing since the fall of President Siad Barre in 1991, recent fighting throughout the country's south is reportedly worse than every before.

Sadly, in Sudan Slavery is No Surprise

GI-NET — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:04:50 GMT

A report released yesterday by the Darfur Consortium finds that forced labor and sexual slavery is being used as a method of ethnic cleansing in Darfur.

Thousands flee clash in Abyei

GI-NET — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 01:19:27 GMT

The BBC is reporting that an argument between soldiers of Sudan's joint North-South army and a market trader in the town of Abyei led to a clash between the soldiers and police units that left one North Sudanese man dead and nine injured.

In Memory of Mr. Mohamed Haroun

GI-NET — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 04:16:05 GMT

On November 24, 2008, Mohamed Haroun, a refugee from Darfur died due to wounds suffered during an armed robbery in the state of Kentucky.

Imagine that you were one of the few lucky ones, who had evaded the bombings and Janjaweed raids in Darfur, survived your time in the IDP and refugee camps and was one of just over 10,000 people from Sudan to be selected to be resettled in the United States.

This happened today in Darfur

GI-NET — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 10:47:54 GMT

Dear All,

1- North Darfur: contacts with an Omdah ( local tribe leader), 2 school teachers, and a rebel leader on the ground in North Darfur. All witnessed today a GoS military aircraft (Antonove) overflying villages in north Darfur(North west of Kutum town). The Aircraft kept circulating for more than 3 hours over villages of: Korbia, Um Marahik, Um Shidig, Door.

Korbia, where there is a Khazan( water reservoir), was bombed exactly four weeks ago (Friday 11/14/2008). I was told that there are still unexploded ordinance from last raid.

Will AU troops withdraw from Somalia before Ethiopia does?

GI-NET — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:20:28 GMT

Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi suggested that the African Union's AMISOM peacekeeper force may withdraw from Somalia.

Bush meets with Halima Bashir, Darfur Human Rights Activist

GI-NET — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:54:39 GMT

To mark International Human Rights day, President George Bush met with human rights activist Dr. Halima Bashir. Dr.

Help Us Protect- Make a Year-End Gift to GI-NET

GI-NET — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 06:59:28 GMT

Last week, thousands of people fasted to raise money for civilian protection in Darfur and eastern Burma. If you participated, you know how important GI-NET's programs are to making a real difference to people living in the shadow of genocide.

We are grateful for your commitment and want you to know that we still need your help to support our long-term mission to prevent and permanently end genocide.

60 Years of the Genocide Convention

GI-NET — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 03:58:17 GMT

Today marks a unique event in the history that the Genocide Intervention Network (GI-NET) would like to observe and share with all its members. On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide, the first document to not only prohibit the practice of genocide, but indeed to define the word in the legal world.

Release of “Preventing Genocide: A Blueprint for U.S. Policymakers” by the Genocide Prevention Taskforce.

GI-NET — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 04:12:52 GMT

On the eve of the 60^th anniversary of the Genocide Convention, the Genocide Prevention Taskforce released set of recommendations aimed at improving the U.S. government's ability to recognize and respond to situations of emerging genocide and mass atrocities around the world.

In November 2007, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, the U.S.

ICC Chief Prosecutor reports to the UN Security Council

GI-NET — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 07:36:30 GMT

On Wednesday December 3, 2008, the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Luis Moreno-Ocampo presented his eighth report on ICC activities in Darfur to the UN Security Council.

Tonight: CNN Special on Genocide Profiles Three Extraordinary People

GI-NET — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 04:16:11 GMT

Tonight, CNN will air a special report, Scream Bloody Murder. The 2-hour documentary follows Christiane Amanpour as she travels to Iraq, Cambodia and Rwanda.

The special tells the stories of three extraordinary people who took action in the face of genocide: an American who tried to protect the Kurds of Iraq, a Canadian general who refused to follow orders in Rwanda, and a French priest who fought to expose atrocities in Cambodia.

Can you STANDFast with us today?

GI-NET — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 06:09:01 GMT

Today, instead of buying my usual medium blueberry Cosi smoothie--$4.29-- I'm helping to protect innocent lives in Darfur and eastern Burma.

Think about it:

$3 can buy ONE 12-ounce can of RedBull. OR it can provide a woman with a donkey for one week to collect firewood.

$5 can buy ONE Venti-sized Mocha at Starbucks. OR it can provide early warning of an impending attack to civilians in eastern Burma.

Today, STANDFast with us to protect innocent civilians.

Make Darfur a priority for Obama's Cabinet!

GI-NET — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 02:10:08 GMT

On Monday, President-elect Barrack Obama announced his picks for Secretary of State, National Security Advisor, and UN Ambassador for his new administration--all roles with key influence over how the United States pursues action in cases of genocide and other mass atrocities. The Genocide Intervention Network (GI-NET) has been following the nomination process with a keen interest and we are happy to report that each pick has a solid history of working to end genocide.

Breakthrough in Sri Lanka?

GI-NET — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:04:56 GMT

Sri Lankan troops are closing in on the LTTE's ‘capital' of Kilinochchi, bringing the government closer to a military victory in the country's long civil war.

The Sri Lankan government announced that it captured the rebel-held town of Kokavil, located 20 kilometers south of the LTTE's administrative center of Kilinochchi. This means that the government now surrounds Kilinochchi on three sides, a position that increases the possibility of a military defeat of the LTTE in the coming months.

Laurent Nkunda: Protector, Profiteer or Puppet?

GI-NET — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:52:04 GMT

General Laurent Nkunda and his militias have been responsible for much of the recent resurgence of violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Nkunda is leader of the National Congress for the Defense of the People (CNDP) rebel group in Congo that has pitted itself against the Congolese Government and other militia groups.

WSJ article urges action on Sudan and Congo from President-Elect Obama

GI-NET — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 01:35:45 GMT

The Wall Street Journal Online recently published an article by Academy-award winning actor George Clooney, human-rights lawyer David Pressman, and ENOUGH Project co-founder John Prendergast urging President-elect Obama to make action in Darfur, Sudan and Eastern Congo a top priority of his new administration.

More Jets (and more questions) for Khartoum

GI-NET — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 08:20:24 GMT

In a move criticized by the United States, the Sudanese government announced that it had purchased 12 MiG-29 fighter jets from Russia.

The MiG-29 is one of the world's leading air superiority fighters, developed to counter the U.S. Air Force F-15 and F-16 fighters.

ICJ to Hear Serbian "Genocide"

GI-NET — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:40:29 GMT

In February 2007, the International Court of Justice decided that while Serbia had violated international law by not stopping the 1995 massacre at Srebrenica, the state was not directly responsible for genocide during the Bosnian war. Serbia may have been reprieved from Bosnian allegations, however on Tuesday the ICJ voted in favor of the court's jurisdiction to proceed with hearings regarding similar allegations by Croatia.

ICC Prosecutor Presents Evidence against Rebel Leaders

GI-NET — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 03:47:19 GMT

The Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Luis Moreno-Ocampo, presented evidence today in what will be the third case in Darfur. Although the names of the individuals accused have not been made public, Ocampo announced that the case involves rebel leaders implicated in the September 29, 2007 attack on African Union peacekeepers at the Haskanita camp in North Darfur.

Potential Policy Shift toward Mass Atrocities

GI-NET — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 06:54:15 GMT

In a recent article, The Washington Independent elucidates the potential foreign policy shift toward bolder action against mass atrocities under an Obama administration. The article contextualizes the current role of Susan Rice, head of Obama's Foreign Policy Transition Team, who in April 2007 testified in favor of military action as a last resort in response to genocide in Sudan. She further concluded that a Chapter 7 UN Resolution ought to be invoked should robust financial sanctions and an implemented no-fly zone fail to cease government fueled atrocities.

When is a Ceasefire not a Ceasefire

GI-NET — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:00:51 GMT

On November 12, Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir announced an immediate, unilateral ceasefire in Darfur. Unfortunately, two days later, rebels reported Sudanese government air attacks in North Darfur.

Could We Be in For Another African World War in Congo?

GI-NET — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 02:54:39 GMT

The Second Congo War, which began in the 1990s, has often been called "Africa's World War". The war lasted from 1998 to 2003 and it is estimated the 5.4 million people died during the war and its aftermath in a study conducted between 1998 and 2008-making it the highest death toll since the end of World War II.

Working to build an effective early warning system for Burmese villagers.

GI-NET — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 07:30:18 GMT

To help protect civilians in eastern Burma, GI-NET is working to create an early warning system together with our partner on the ground, the Free Burma Rangers (FBR). The system will use a radio network to ensure that villagers living in ethnic minority areas receive enough warning prior to Burmese Army attacks to escape.

A Peace Surge for Sudan

GI-NET — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 08:36:14 GMT

The message of Sudan activists all over the United States is clear: Don’t try to contain the damage from the war in Darfur—end the war. Don’t just declare that genocide is taking place—end the genocide. Don’t just try to manage the consequences of crisis after crisis in Sudan—end these crises.

Stop the Violence in Congo

GI-NET — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 08:16:55 GMT

The renewed rebel offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo threatens to return the region to all-out war and has already displaced at least 200,000 additional civilians. The UN mission in Congo (MONUC), while the largest UN mission, is not able to protect civilians from atrocities without immediate reinforcements.

Call Secretary Rice and tell her that you want stopping the violence in Congo to be a priority during her final days in office: (202) 647-5291.

Hitting the Ground Running on Darfur

GI-NET — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 02:23:40 GMT

Congratulations to President-elect Barack Obama. After almost 2 years of campaigning, the 2008 election has come to a close. Now, the hard work begins.

The Road to November 4th

Don't Forget to Vote Today!

GI-NET — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 03:09:05 GMT

The Genocide Intervention Network (GI-NET) would like to remind and urge all our readers and members to get out today and vote.

Fragile Stability in Eastern Congo

GI-NET — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 08:38:23 GMT

General Laurent Nkunda's unilateral ceasefire continues to hold in North Kivu, but the outcome of his recent offensive remains far from certain.

Voices of Hope

GI-NET — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 08:05:08 GMT

"My Name is Ahmat. I have 16 years old. I come from Darfur state. Now, I am a refugee. I live in Kounoungo."

A few years ago, i-ACT interviewed Ahmat, a Darfuri youth with high ambitions and a strong desire to further his education. See the complete interview below:

Thousand of Civilians at Risk as Crisis Continues in Congo

GI-NET — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 03:45:42 GMT

Laurent Nkunda's militia forces (known as the CNDP) have begun a new offensive in eastern Congo. Nkunda had announced on October 23 that he was rejecting the United Nations' October 20 call for a ceasefire. Nkunda stated that he had written to the UN to request that peace negotiations move forward with a neutral mediator, but claimed that the UN had not responded to his request.

Legislative Update: No More Burmese Gem Imports

GI-NET — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 08:51:40 GMT

On July 29, 2008 President Bush signed the Tom Lantos Block Burmese JADE (Junta's Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act into law. The bill passed Congress on July 22, 2008 with help from GI-NET members like you.

The Block Burmese JADE Act Takes Effect

Update: Kidnapped Chinese Oil Workers Killed

GI-NET — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 02:58:51 GMT

Five of the nine Chinese oil workers kidnapped last weekend in South Kordofan are reported to have been killed in an escape attempt, according to the Sudanese Foreign Minister.

Tell the Next President: Make Darfur a Day One Priority

GI-NET — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 09:53:00 GMT

Presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama have both pledged "unstinting resolve" to end the Darfur genocide-let them know you are holding them to their promise! Help us send one million post cards to the next president with this message: You must make Darfur a Day One priority.

RAISE Hope for Congo

GI-NET — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 03:01:36 GMT

Since 1996, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has played host to the world's deadliest conflict since World War II. More than 5.4 million people have died from the ravaging effects of war and its aftermath. Today, eastern Congo is caught in an epidemic of appalling sexual violence, as militias use rape as a military tactic to destroy communities and exert control over natural resources. The conflict has been marked by cycles of escalation, and the international response has been wholly inadequate.

Aid to Burma: Who’s Really Benefitting?

GI-NET — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 09:56:00 GMT

One of the major concerns regarding humanitarian aid in Burma has been the inequality with which it has been distributed. Although in great need, the Irrawaddy Delta region that was devastated by Cyclone Nargis has been the only region to receive a substantial amount of humanitarian aid. The rest of the country-also in need-remains marginalized.

Another Darfur in Sudan’s Southern Kordofan State?

GI-NET — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 03:43:05 GMT

On Tuesday, October 21 the International Crisis Group published a report detailing the escalation of tension in the Southern Kordofan (download report).

About Southern Kordofan State

Sudan Gov't Hunts for Kidnapped Chinese Oil Workers

GI-NET — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 03:59:41 GMT

Over the weekend, nine Chinese oil workers were abducted in the Kordofan region of Southwest Sudan, near the border of Darfur. Today, Sudanese security forces are struggling to recover the workers amid harsh weather and terrain.

At least 40,000 more displaced in Darfur.

GI-NET — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 09:14:21 GMT

According to the United Nations more than forty-thousand people have been displaced in North Darfur in recent weeks.

The Alaska Divestment Conversation

GI-NET — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 08:53:13 GMT

An editorial written recently in the Anchorage Daily News reflects the broadened conversation sparked by Sarah Palin's remarks regarding Alaska divestment from Sudan. The editorial agrees with several critics of divestment in that investment policies should not be steered by social or political agendas. The author goes on to say that "Genocide goes beyond a political or social agenda.

ICC Delays War Crimes Charges Against Bashir

GI-NET — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 05:57:15 GMT

Following July's request for an arrest warrant against Omar al-Bashir, Chief Prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo has waited almost three months for the ICC to issue an official arrest warrant regarding war crimes in Darfur. In a statement issued Thursday, the ICC gave Mr. Moreno Ocampo one month to acquire additional evidence to support the 10 counts of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes brought against President Bashir.

Sudan Arrests Janjaweed Leader

GI-NET — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:02:45 GMT

On Monday, the government of Sudan announced that Janjaweed militia leader, Ali Kushayb (also known as Ali Mohamed Ali Abdel-Rahman), has been in police custody since February. The government stated that Kushayb was arrested earlier this year while a probe into alleged crimes in Darfur was being conducted.

How Can A Googol Dollars End Genocide?

GI-NET — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 04:43:05 GMT

If you had a googol (10¹⁰⁰) dollars, what would YOU do to change the world and help as many people as possible?

Google wants to know your ideas--they are hosting a competition to give $10 million to up to 10 projects that can change the world.

Palin divests!

GI-NET — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 03:33:37 GMT

Readers who have been keeping up with this blog in the past few weeks as well as those who tuned into the vice-presidential debate may remember vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin's comment to have supported the passage of divestment legislation in her native Alaska.

Additional Complications to Peace in North Kivu

GI-NET — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 06:59:44 GMT

In the Democratic Republic of Congo's North Kivu province, the peace process sits on a knife's edge due to recent fighting between the FARDC forces and CNDP militia. Yet, recent accusations of a Rwandan incursion into the territory may make a lasting peace in the DRC much more difficult to achieve.

Pirates, Grenade Launchers and the Future of Sudan

GI-NET — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 10:03:25 GMT

A recent chain of events-more likely to appear in a Hollywood movie than real-life-involving Somali pirates and an ill-fated Ukrainian freighter has exposed a shipment of arms on its way to southern Sudan.

On September 25^th, the Ukrainian vessel MV Faina was captured by pirates off the coast of Somalia.

Darfur an Issue in Second Presidential Debate

GI-NET — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 03:06:52 GMT

We scored another success for Darfur in last night's presidential debate! When moderator Tom Brokaw asked each candidate to discuss his doctrine for use of force when there aren't national security issues at stake, both seized the opportunity to discuss Darfur:

Senator Obama: "...it's so important for us to be able to work in concert with our allies.

Between a rock and a hard place: the case of Emmanuel Karenzi

GI-NET — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 03:32:45 GMT

Seeking justice for the victims of genocide and mass human rights abuses can be tricky enough when the perpetrators are protected by their home countries, but what about when they are protecting victims of other genocides?

UNAMID Reinforces Security Presence at Kalma Camp

GI-NET — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 09:40:19 GMT

In response to Sudanese government threats against the Kalma IDP camp, the UNAMID peacekeeping mission deployed a platoon of armed soldiers and an armored personnel carrier to Kalma in order to increase camp security.

Darfur Addressed in Vice Presidential Debate

GI-NET — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 07:45:00 GMT

Great job, GI-NET members!