Women's Views on News |
- Concern over definition of family
- Shock and despair as civilians killed
- Events 14 July – 20 July
- Playboy to release Terry Richardson issue
| Concern over definition of family Posted: 14 Jul 2014 09:15 AM PDT
Protecting the intimacy of the family has been long used to justify marital rape, domestic violence and child abuse. Unfortunately, as the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) point out, the resolution on the protection of the family passed at the recent Human Rights Council meeting, with a text that conveys a uniform idea of family that does not recognise diverse forms, which is a form of discrimination NGOs have been struggling against for years. We are left, WILPF says, with the appalling impression that the Human Rights Council has somehow been used to cover an agenda that has nothing to do with Human Rights but rather with doctrine. However, the Council was of course incredibly divided in its vote on this. As Sexual Rights Initiative point out: "It is however important to recognise that this was a voted resolution which carries significantly less weight that a consensus text". NGOs will keep fighting on this one – and have published a joint statement: ‘Our organizations, representing a wide range of civil society from all regions of the world, are urging the UN Human Rights Council to ensure the Panel discussion entitled "protection of the family" scheduled to take place in September reflects the diversity of family forms and includes a focus on the promotion and protection of human rights of individuals within the family unit. The decision to hold the Panel came in a resolution passed on 26 June 2014, as a result of the deeply flawed "protection of the family" initiative led by Egypt and other States at the UN Human Rights Council. The manner in which the initiative has been pursued gives rise to concern that some States will seek to exploit it as a vehicle for promoting a narrow, exclusionary and patriarchal concept of "the family" that denies equal protection to the human rights of individuals who belong to the various and diverse forms of family that exist across the globe. It also contravenes individuals', including children's, unequivocal right to non-discrimination on the basis of family status. These include, for instance: unmarried couples, with or without children; single-parent families; families headed by children or grandparents; joint families; extended families; kinship; families of divorced individuals; intergenerational families; families that include same-sex relationships. These also include community-based arrangements and, where children are concerned, any other care-giving environment that can provide for their care, nurturance and development consistent with their best interests. Previous UN resolutions on the family include language, agreed by all States, that recognized that "various forms of the family exist". The authors of the resolution deliberately omitted this language, despite this issue being consistently raised by other States throughout the negotiations. Attempts by a number of States to reintroduce the language agreed by consensus on "various forms of the family" in the resolution were rejected by the States in the core group in informal negotiations, without ever providing a substantive reason for the refusal, despite numerous attempts to elicit a response from the core group. The unprincipled refusal to accept this agreed language suggests highly politicized intentions of some of the States behind the resolution to remove from recognition families that do not conform to a narrow conception of the family. When the previously agreed language "various forms of the family" was brought as a formal amendment during the voting process on the resolution, the Russian Federation and other co-sponsor States used a procedural tactic (the "no action motion"), widely condemned by other States and civil society (and which has only ever been successfully used on one other occasion since the formation of the Council in 2006), to prevent the Council from even considering the amendment. Our organisations condemn the use of this wholly inappropriate procedural tactic to block discussion in a manner fundamentally incompatible with the purposes of principles of the Human Rights Council. The no action motion has been designed and intended as a procedure available for States to stop the Council taking up a question not appropriately within its purview – a circumstance That was patently inapplicable in respect of this amendment. In voting for this motion, Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, China, Congo, Cote D'Ivoire, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Morocco, Namibia, Pakistan, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, UAE, and Venezuela betrayed their responsibilities as members of the Council to uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights. At the same time, many of these same States insisted that the Panel would be open to a discussion by all of all forms of the family. They must now respect that commitment going forward. Some States, supported by civil society, had attempted during the informal negotiations to ensure that the resolution clearly acknowledged and addressed the fact that the family is also a setting in which human rights abuses sometimes take place. According to the UN Secretary General, the most common form of violence experienced by women globally is intimate partner violence, commonly referred to as domestic violence, which includes marital rape. These States affirmed that protection of the human rights of individuals within every family should be of paramount concern to the Human Rights Council. Their efforts were partially successful: Egypt eventually agreed that the Panel topic would be "on the protection of the family and its members to address the implementation of States' obligations under relevant provisions of international human rights law and to discuss challenges and best practices in this regard" (emphasis added). A preambular paragraph was also added that reaffirms "that States have the primary responsibility to promote and protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all human beings, including women, children and older persons". Unfortunately, the text of the resolution still does not give enough emphasis to this important aspect. Following the defeat of the "diversity" amendment, the resolution remained so deeply flawed that many States were effectively compelled to vote against or abstained on the resolution. Those States are to be highly commended. Austria, Chile, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Montenegro, Republic of Korea, Romania, the UK, and the USA voted against the resolution. Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru and Macedonia abstained. (Cuba was absent for both votes). It is also noteworthy that Saudi Arabia and Pakistan had tabled an amendment that attempted by implication to limit the concept of family to forms based on "the union of a man and a woman", though this was eventually withdrawn. It is important that the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, who is responsible for organizing the panel discussion, ensures that the Panel contributes to the promotion and protection of rights of individuals within families in all their diversity. Our organizations will continue to insist on recognition that various forms of the family exist, and that individuals should not be discriminated against as a result of the form of family to which they happen to belong. States should not fail to promote and protect the rights of persons because they belong to particular forms of family. We will continue to insist that the promotion and protection of the human rights of individuals within all families must be of the paramount importance to the UN Human Rights Council. Action Canada for Population and Development Amnesty International ARC International Article 19 Coalition of African Lesbians COC Netherlands Colectivo Ovejas Negras CREA Defence for Children International – DCI Costa Rica Eurochild Federation of Women and Family Planning Franciscans International International Commission of Jurists International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association International Service for Human Rights Sexual Rights Initiative Truth and Reconciliation for the Adoption Community of Korea Women's International League for Peace and Freedom World Young Women’s Christian Association  |
| Shock and despair as civilians killed Posted: 14 Jul 2014 08:30 AM PDT The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay has expressed alarm at the Israeli military operations resulting in the killing of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, as well as the indiscriminate firing of rockets from Gaza into Israel. She appealled to all sides to abide by their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law. As of the early afternoon of 10 July, 88 Palestinians, including at least 21 children and 11 women, had been killed in Gaza as a result of Israeli strikes since the beginning of Israel's latest military operation "Protective Edge" on the night of 8 July. Reports suggest that hundreds more have been injured: CNN reported that by this morning, the death toll from nearly a week of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza had reached 172 – all of them Palestinians – with more than 1,250 wounded, according to Palestinian health authorities. Israeli media reports over 800 strikes since the operation began, with 60 on the morning of 10 July alone. Reports indicate that from the start of "Operation Protective Edge" to midday on 10 July, Palestinian armed groups have fired a total of 809 rockets and 61 mortars. Media reports indicate that, as of midday on 10 July, nine Israeli civilians sustained injuries while fleeing to shelters. "Israel, Hamas, and Palestinian armed groups in Gaza have been down this road before, and it has led only to death, destruction, distrust and a painful prolongation of the conflict," Pillay said. "This time around, once again, civilians are bearing the brunt of the conflict. "I urge all sides to steadfastly respect their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law to protect civilians." Pillay warned in particular that attacks must not be directed against civilians or civilian objects, nor should military assets be located in densely populated areas or attacks be launched from such areas. "For its part, the Government of Israel must take all possible measures to ensure full respect for the principles of distinction, proportionality and precautions in attack, during the conduct of hostilities, as required by international humanitarian law. "In all circumstances, they must avoid targeting civilians," she said. "However, we have received deeply disturbing reports that many of the civilian casualties, including of children, occurred as a result of strikes on homes. "Such reports raise serious doubt about whether the Israeli strikes have been in accordance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law." The targeting of civilian homes is a violation of international humanitarian law unless the homes are being used for military purposes. In case of doubt, buildings ordinarily used for civilian purposes, such as homes, are presumed not to be legitimate military targets. Even where a home is identified as being used for military purposes, any attack must be proportionate, offer a definite military advantage in the prevailing circumstances at the time, and precautions must be taken. "Every alleged breach of international law must be promptly, independently, thoroughly and effectively investigated, with a view to ensuring justice and reparations for the victims," Pillay said. The High Commissioner expressed deep concern about the prospect of a ground offensive and strongly echoed the Secretary-General's call for a ceasefire. "It is high time that leaders on all sides abandon their poisonous rhetoric and deadly tit-for-tat behaviour in favour of a peaceful resolution to this impasse." "I have been to Gaza and I have been to Sderot myself and have seen how traumatic these air strikes and rocket attacks are on civilians, especially children. They must stop." In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, the situation remains tense. The High Commissioner reiterated her call upon all parties to address recent violations, including the excessive use of force, arbitrary arrest and detention, destruction and damage to property, incitement to violence, and to ensure accountability for crimes.  |
| Posted: 14 Jul 2014 04:05 AM PDT
National: Now until 9 August: Wool Against Weapons: join lots of knitters and crocheters knitting a Peace Scarf to run between the Women's Peace Camp at Aldermaston and Burghfield (the other Nuclear Weapons Establishment site) in Berkshire. Here is "why?": The UK Government is going to spend over £80 billion on renewing the Trident Nuclear warhead. That's a lot of money at a time of financial austerity and recession. And you know what? The world has a global arms trade worth USD1.74 trillion. Now, it doesn't seem like rocket science to me – let's invest in people instead – let's move from a war economy to a green economy. Cut the military, address the root causes of violence, wars and terrorism. Lots of you have been asking when the deadline is – good question, I keep asking myself that too. Well, 9 August is the obvious one. But seriously, if we were to have your pieces sent to us (Jaine in Stroud, CND in London, or certain Lush stores – so far: Birmingham, Brighton, Chester, Oxford, Preston and Sheffield) by the end of July latest then it would just about give us enough time to stitch them into the main scarf. If you are coming on the day – and please do join us! – then bring your piece(s) with you and we will stitch it there and then! Thanks lovelies! xxx Glasgow: 19-20 July: Glasgow Women's Liberation Conference at Kinning Park Complex, 43 Cornwall Street, Glasgow. Although this conference is being held in Glasgow on 19 and 20 July it is to commemorate the 1974 women's liberation conference held in Edinburgh. Forty years on, we will come together to reminisce, to celebrate our achievements and the fact we are still here, and to look to the future. We envision a return to a politics of women's liberation – moving from single-issue campaigns drawing on feminist ideas to a women-centred revolutionary movement. The Edinburgh conference gave rise to the sixth demand of the WLM – ' An end to all discrimination against lesbians and a woman's right to define her own sexuality' and therefore there will be two sessions specifically focusing on the activism and community of lesbian feminists then and now. There will be workshops, talks, exhibitions and an evening event with an open stage and then disco on one floor, and a quieter space to talk to one another on the other floor. There will be a few plenaries and lots of workshops including: On the Problem of Men: Challenging fathers' rights movements and their impact on women and children – by Lynne Harne Building a lesbian feminist sisterhood – with Julia Long Race and feminism: building solidarity among women – a workshop with Jennifer Kim Prostitution – legal perspectives and the Nordic model – by Gunilla Ekberg Exploring lesbian feminist activism through the years – a workshop with Elaine Hutton The nature of oppression for mothers under patriarchy – a workshop with Angela Soudjoukdjian Male violence against women – naming the problem – a workshop Women's bodies, objectification and racialised misogyny – a short presentation and discussion Women, trauma and recovery – women's mental health and the way we strive to recover from trauma including women's sector support, consciousness-raising and feminist therapy Engaging women in state politics, and a look at the independence debate through a feminist lens – a workshop Creating a women's culture – archives, art, writing, music – a workshop and an exhibition. There will also be a small library in a quiet space. London 16 July: 'Working Together for Women' at Menier Gallery, Southwark Street, London SE1, from 6.30pm. The British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) is hosting a networking event in London for campaigners working to influence public policy on behalf of women. Although we face similar challenges, opportunities to meet and share our experiences are limited and funding cuts have had a significant impact on advocacy work. Whether your focus is on domestic violence, economic inequality or maternity rights, you are welcome to join us at an informal reception where you will hear from some speakers offering us their thoughts on the challenges faced by the women's sector. There will then be plenty of time to chat about the issues with others campaigning for women. Speakers include Scarlet Harris, Women's Equality Officer, TUC and Clare Laxton, Public Policy Manager, Women's Aid. Wine, soft drinks and nibbles will be provided. Admission to this event is free and open to all working in and around the women's sector but please book your place in advance. 16 July: Women in Leadership – What Needs to Change? at St. Pauls Institute, London at 7pm: doors at 6.30pm. Creating greater opportunities for female empowerment has been designated as one of the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals. It is clear that the tide is turning and large strides are being made to overcome problems of institutional inequality; many voices have joined together to call for our leaders to represent the diversity of the people they govern, but there is still work to be done to remove impediments that have restricted female advancement. How can we remove the institutional and cultural barriers preventing many women from reaching positions of leadership? What can different sectors learn from one another in the fight for true equality? What actions can we take to create lasting change? Join us at St Paul's Cathedral for a public discussion led by: Liz Bingham, Managing Partner for Talent at EY, Shami Chakrabarti, Director of Liberty, Ceri Goddard, Director of Gender at the Young Foundation, The Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons, Frances O'Grady, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress. Chaired by: The Very Rev David Ison, Dean of St Paul's Cathedral. Entry is free. 16 July: She Grrrowls: City Stories at The Gallery Café, 21 Old Ford Road, London E2, from 7.30pm She Grrrowls showcases a range of talented women and includes poetry, comedy and a musical finale. Come along and take part in the all-inclusive OPEN MIC section, with this month’s theme: City Stories. Guest hosted by Catherine Woodward, Poetry by Jess Green, Comedy by Elizabeth Carola and Music by Oh Boy 17-18 July: Women, migration and development: Investing in the future: at the Overseas Development Institute at 203 Blackfriars Road, London. SE1 8NJ and streamed online This two-day conference hosted by ODI and CARE International UK and funded by Big Lottery Fund will focus on two key thematic areas: vulnerabilities faced by women migrant workers and challenges in developing lasting policy solutions. Swansea: 17 July: Do You Want Your Say On … Domestic Abuse Services? at Swansea Women's Centre, 25 Mansel Street, Swansea, from 11am. Swansea Women's Centre are looking for women who have experienced domestic abuse in heterosexual, same-sex or family relationships and would be willing to share their views of the services they have received by Police, Health, Housing and Social Services. Buffet lunch provided. Travel and childcare expenses available for refund.  |
| Playboy to release Terry Richardson issue Posted: 14 Jul 2014 01:09 AM PDT
Some brands are distancing themselves from the photographer amid increasing claims of sexual harassment, but not Playboy. Terry Richardson recently posted teasers from the 'California Dreamin' shoot, which was originally due for release in September, but will now be published in full in February 2015. When Jezebel asked a Playboy spokesperson for details about the issue, the magazine confirmed that its 'great partner' Richardson has shot a 100-page 'special edition' which will be published in full next year. Playboy offered no comment in response to the question of their choice to commission a Richardson special at a time when allegations about the photographer's behavior are growing and some of his other clients are no longer working with him. Playboy's decision is in contrast with Vogue, who announced in April that they will no longer work with Richardson in the wake of allegations that he sent a message to a model offering her the chance to be in the magazine in exchange for sex. Shortly after British model Emma J. Appleton tweeted a screen grab of the message allegedly sent from Richardson, a US Vogue spokesperson told The Wrap: 'The last assignment Terry Richardson had for US Vogue appeared in the July 2010 issue and we have no plans to work with him in the future'. In recent years numerous models have spoken of their experiences with Richardson. In a 2010 The Gloss article, ex-model Jamie Peck describes the photographer asking her to remove her tampon so he could play with it on set. Peck says that when she refused Richardson proceeded to undress and further harass her. In 2012 Danish model Rie Rasmussen told Jezebel that the girls who work with Richardson 'are too afraid so say no because their agency booked them on the job and they are too young to stand up for themselves.' Richardson finally responded to the allegations in March, describing them as 'false', 'hate-filled and libelous tales'. While Playboy might be convinced, those behind the growing #NoMoreTerry campaign are not, and are encouraging people to boycott companies, publications and celebrities who maintain their association with Richardson.  |
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