Category: Asia Pacific

MIL-OSI NGOs: India: Authorities must end repression of dissent in Jammu and Kashmir

Source: Amnesty International –

The Indian authorities must stop using restrictive travel bans and arbitrary detentions under the country’s stringent anti-terror laws to intimidate critical dissenting voices from speaking out on Jammu and Kashmir, Amnesty International said today ahead of the first state elections in the last ten years.

The authorities’ escalating repression of human rights after India revoked the special autonomous status of the region has resulted in arbitrary detentions, passports being revoked, the creation of opaque ‘no flying lists’, the denial of entry into India and arbitrary cancellations of Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status and affected those with Indian and non-Indian citizenship speaking out against the repression.

“The Indian authorities are using arbitrary restrictions and punitive actions to create a climate of fear in Jammu and Kashmir. Anyone daring to speak out – whether to criticize the government or to stand up for human rights – faces a clampdown on their rights to freedom of expression and association and are unable to move freely within and outside the country,” said Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India.

“The Indian authorities must end their campaign of harassment and intimidation against dissenting voices. The people of Jammu and Kashmir must be able to exercise their right to fully participate in the decision-making about their future in the run up to, during and after elections.”

The people of Jammu and Kashmir must be able to exercise their right to fully participate in the decision-making about their future in the run up to, during and after elections.

Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India

Since the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution in 2019, which scrapped Jammu and Kashmir’s special semi-autonomous status, and since Amnesty International issued its last briefing on the human rights situation in the region, we have verified the cases of at least five individuals, including journalists, political leaders and activists, who have been prevented from travelling abroad or travelling into India, despite having the requisite travel documents, in violation of their right to freedom of movement. The Indian authorities have imposed the bans without any written explanation, court order or proper notification within the legal time frame which indicate a form of retaliation against their legitimate human rights work around Jammu and Kashmir.

The government also continues to misuse the draconian Public Safety Act (PSA), which allows authorities to arbitrarily detain people for up to two years without charge or trial, and the UnlawfulActivities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to carry out arbitrary detentions. This has led to self-censorship of independent voices, and the Indian authorities’ near total control over information from Jammu and Kashmir.

MIL OSI NGO –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 57: Interactive Dialogue on Myanmar

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights on Myanmar. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Location:

Geneva

Delivered on:

24 September 2024 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Thank you Deputy High Commissioner for your update. And we thank the High Commissioner for his report.

The humanitarian and human rights crisis in Myanmar continues to deepen. In August, more than 42,000 people were displaced, and the Myanmar military conducted more airstrikes than in any other month since the coup, targeting villages, schools and hospitals. At the same time, the military continues to obstruct aid, preventing vital supplies from reaching those in need.

We call on the Myanmar military, and all other actors, to allow safe, unimpeded humanitarian access to vulnerable communities. This is crucial as people suffer from the impacts of flooding, growing food insecurity and shortages of health and sanitation supplies. The UK will provide more than £40 million in assistance this financial year. We encourage other Member States to also consider what more they can do.

20,000 people remain arbitrarily detained, including journalists, healthcare workers and political prisoners. The IIMM (Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar) has found credible reports of widespread torture and deaths in detention, including physical abuse and sexual and gender-based violence of the most horrific kind, including against children. The military must release all those arbitrarily detained. We also call on Myanmar to comply with the UN Convention against Torture and respect the rights of detainees.

Updates to this page

Published 24 September 2024

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI NGOs: Hong Kong: T-shirt sedition sentencing shows malice of new national security legislation

Source: Amnesty International –

Responding to the 14-month prison sentence handed to Hong Kong man Chu Kai-pong for wearing a “seditious” T-shirt and mask, Amnesty International’s China Director Sarah Brooks said:

“Just when you thought the human rights situation in Hong Kong couldn’t get any bleaker, a man is condemned to more than a year in prison just because of the clothing he chose to wear. This is a blatant attack on the right to freedom of expression.

“The conviction and sentencing of Chu Kai-pong over his choice of clothing also highlights the sheer malice of Hong Kong’s new Article 23 law, which expands the government’s powers to punish so-called ‘seditious’ acts.

“Chu Kai-pong is the first person convicted under this legislation, but its vague wording, vast scope and repressive nature leaves Hong Kongers fearing that he will not be the last. We once again urge the Hong Kong authorities to repeal this law.

“The government must also end its use of ‘sedition’ laws to crack down on dissent under the pretext of protecting ‘national security’. Chu Kai-pong has committed no internationally recognized crime and he must be released immediately.”

MIL OSI NGO –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI NGOs: UN Security Council casts nearly all vetoes last decade on Syria, Palestine and Ukraine, robbing opportunities for peace

Source: Oxfam –

Ahead of the UN Summit for the Future, Oxfam calls for reform of the UN Security Council to stop the “Permanent Five” from being their own “judge and jury”

The UN Security Council (UNSC) is failing people living in conflict, with Russia and the United States particularly responsible for abusing their veto power which is blocking progress toward peace in Ukraine, Syria, and the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel.

A new Oxfam report, Vetoing Humanity, studied 23 of the world’s most protracted conflicts over the past decade, including Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Libya, Niger, the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela and Yemen, and found that 27 of the 30 UNSC vetoes cast on these conflicts were on OPT, Syria and Ukraine.

The report concludes that the five permanent members of the UNSC (the P5) are exploiting their exclusive voting and negotiating powers to suit their own geopolitical interests. In doing so, they have undermined the Council’s ability to maintain international peace and security.

More than a million people have been killed in these 23 conflicts alone and more than 230 million people are today in urgent need of aid – an increase of over 150 percent since 2015.

“China, France, Russia, the UK and the US took responsibility for global security at the UNSC in what is now a bygone colonial age. The contradictions of their acting as judge and jury of their own military alliances, interests and adventures are incompatible with a world seeking peace and justice for all,” said Oxfam International Executive Director Amitabh Behar.

For instance, in 2023 Russia vetoed a nine-month extension of cross-border assistance to Northern Syria which left 4.1 million people with little or no access to food, water and medicine. Russia has also used its veto four times on Ukraine, despite being an aggressor in the conflict and by UN rules should therefore be disqualified from voting.

“China, France, Russia, the UK and the US took responsibility for global security at the UNSC in what is now a bygone colonial age. The contradictions of their acting as judge and jury of their own military alliances, interests and adventures are incompatible with a world seeking peace and justice for all.”

Amitabh Behar, Oxfam International Executive Director

Oxfam International

While the UN General Assembly (UNGA) has passed at least 77 resolutions over the last decade supporting Palestinian self-determination and human rights and an end to Israel’s illegal occupation, the US has used its veto power six times to block resolutions perceived as unfavourable to its ally Israel. The US vetoes have created a permissive environment for Israel to expand illegal settlements in the Palestinian territory with impunity.

“More often than not the Security Council permanent members’ vetoes have contradicted the will of the UN General Assembly, in which all states are represented,” Behar said.

The report critiques another of the P5’s powers called “pen-holding”, which allows them to lead on negotiations and direct how resolutions are drafted and tabled, or ignored – again, too often according to their own interests.

While France and the UK have not used their veto last decade, they and the US have held the pen on two-thirds of resolutions relating to the 23 protracted crises studied by Oxfam. The UK holds the pen on Yemen, for example, where it has a colonial legacy and strategic interests to maintain the maritime routes. In 2023, Mali objected to French pen-holding given what it considered “acts of aggression and destabilization” there.

Many other initiatives are not even written up or tabled because they would inevitability be vetoed, the report says. As a result, the 23 crises studied by Oxfam are being treated in wildly different ways.

Nearly half of them have been largely neglected with fewer than five resolutions each over the last decade, including just one on Myanmar and none on Ethiopia or Venezuela.

“The erratic and self-interested behaviour of UNSC members has contributed to an explosion of humanitarian needs that is now outpacing humanitarian organizations’ ability to respond. This demands a fundamental change of our international security architecture at the very top.”

Amitabh Behar, Oxfam International Executive Director

Oxfam International

On the other hand, the UNSC has passed nearly 80 on both South Sudan and Sudan, 53 on Somalia and 48 on Libya. None have led to lasting peace. Despite the Democratic Republic of Congo having had 24 UNSC resolutions in the past 10 years, for instance, the UN mission there (MONUSCO) has been hindered by chronic underfunding and lack of coordination.

“The erratic and self-interested behaviour of UNSC members has contributed to an explosion of humanitarian needs that is now outpacing humanitarian organizations’ ability to respond. This demands a fundamental change of our international security architecture at the very top,” Behar said.

Globally, the number of people needing humanitarian assistance has risen nearly four times in the last decade, triggering massive funding needs. Between 2014 and 2023, the UN appeal has nearly tripled from $20 billion to over $56 billion – but less than half of this amount was met last year.

The report is critical of the fact that humanitarian funding remains entirely dependent upon voluntary contributions. In contrast, UN member state funding for peacekeeping operations is mandatory.

As the Summit of the Future kicks off this week to envision a revitalized UN, Oxfam calls for a wholesale reform of the UN Security Council, including the abolition of the P5’s veto power.

“We need a new vision for a UN system that meets its original ambitions and made fit for purpose for today’s reality,” Behar said. “A Council that works for the global majority not a powerful few. This starts with renouncing the veto and pen-holding privilege of the P5 and expanding membership to more countries.”

MIL OSI NGO –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI NGOs: Media Advisory: Oxfam and partners at UNGA79
Source: Oxfam –

Oxfam leaders, experts, and partners are joining the UN 79th General Assembly, Summit of the Future, and Climate Action week in New York, hosting and attending events focused on UN Security Council Reform, gender, digital rights, inequality, climate action, and humanitarian issues. They will be urging global leaders to take bold decisions and action as they deliberate on the pressing issues of our time.

This year’s theme is “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations.”

Here is an overview of Oxfam’s key events, including a press conference on a report on UN Security Council Reform, media spokespeople, and products:

“Our global systems have failed to address the unprecedented challenges we face today, leaving millions behind. Conflict is rampant, the climate crisis is at a breaking point, and inequality is soaring. As we gather at this year’s Assembly, leaders cannot squander the opportunity to restore people’s faith in the UN’s role as the flagbearer for global peace, security, and cooperation. They must move beyond mere rhetoric and make bold choices to create a system that serves all of humanity, not just the powerful few.”

Amitabh Behar, Oxfam International Executive Director

Oxfam International
A few highlights from Oxfam’s agenda at UNGA (all times in EST):

Thursday, September 19: Oxfam will publish a report titled,“Vetoing Humanity,” which highlights how the five UN Security Council Permanent Member States’ (P5) have abused the veto and negotiating powers in their own geopolitical interests; and how they have paralyzed the Council’s ability to maintain international peace and security or mitigate prolonged conflicts and human suffering.

At 8:30am, Oxfam will be hosting a photo call at an art installation in Tudor City outside the UN, featuring a large dove shackled to a “veto” weight, signifying how the Security Council veto has restrained efforts for global peace. Brooklyn-based artist Miles Giordani built the installation with Oxfam.

At 11:00 am, Oxfam will also hold a press conference on the “Vetoing Humanity” report in the UN Correspondents Association briefing room.

At 5:30pm, Oxfam and other civil society organizations will be hosting a media happy hour for a chance for experts and journalists to connect. Media can RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/unga-media-civil-society-happy-hour-tickets-1009525918197

Saturday, September 21: Oxfam and partners will host a Summit of the Future Action Days Official Side Event on “Reforming the UN Security Council for an Equal and Sustainable Future” at the UN Headquarters. Speakers will include Amitabh Behar, Oxfam International Executive Director; Anne-Marie Slaughter, CEO of the New America; Ambassador Lazalous Kapambwe former Zambia Permanent Representative to the UN and 67th President of UN ECOSOC; Wameedh Shakir, Founder and Chairperson of Itar Foundation in Yemen; Augusto Lopez-Claros, Executive Director and Chair – Global Governance Forum and Ishaan Shah co-founded Stolen Dreams. Register to participate or watch the Livestream here: Reforming the UN Security Council for an Equal and Sustainable Future (Side Event, Action Day 2, Summit of the Future) | UN Web TV

Monday, September 23: Oxfam will publish “Multilateralism in an Era of Global Oligarchy: How Extreme Inequality Undermines International Cooperation,” a report highlighting how ultrawealthy individuals — often enabled by the richest countries — exert disproportionate influence over policy decision. The paper proposes the solutions needed for progress and provides new global data prepared for UNGA. On Thursday, September 26, a joint event with the Ford Foundation will outline key aspects the report; the panelists will include: Oxfam International Executive Director Amitabh Behar; Ronald Lamola, South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation; and Nanjala Nyabola, Kenyan writer, researcher, and political analyst; moderated by The Washington Post’s Karen Attiah.

Reactive Statements:

Oxfam will be making statements regarding Summit of the Future outcomes, Heads of State Speeches during the High-Level Debate and other developments throughout.

Oxfam Spokespeople:
- Amitabh Behar, Oxfam International, Executive Director: Sustainable Development Goals, UN Reform, Inequality, Climate, Democracy, Human Rights, war in Gaza
- Abby Maxman, Oxfam America President and CEO: Sustainable Development Goals, Inequality, Humanitarian Issues
- Lebogang Ramafoko, Oxfam South Africa Executive Director: Summit of the Future, Climate and Inequality
- Brenda Mofya, Head of Oxfam New York Office: Sustainable Development Goals, The Summit of the Future, Humanitarian Issues
- Dr. Tawanda Mutasah, Oxfam America Vice President of Global Partnerships and Impact: Sustainable Development Goals, UN Reform
- Ashfaq Khalfan, Oxfam America Director of Climate Justice: U.S. position and context on climate issues in UN agenda, Climate and Inequality, Future Generations
- Nabil Ahmed, Oxfam America Director of Economic and Racial Justice: Economic/Wealth Inequality, Progressive Taxation, Corporate Power, Multilateralism
- Pauline Chetcuti, Oxfam International Head of Humanitarian Advocacy and Campaigns; Humanitarian and Climate Financing, Humanitarian Issues
- Neal McCarthy, Oxfam America Associate Director of Digital in Program: Summit of the Future Digital Compact
- Rebecca Shadwick, Oxfam International Gender Rights & Justice Policy & Advocacy Lead: Gender Justice and Rights in the Summit of the Future
- Abdulwasea Mohammed, Oxfam in Yemen Advocacy, Policy, and Campaigns Lead; Yemen, Inclusive Peace and Security
Partners:
- Marinel Ubaldo, Climate Activist from the Philippines; Climate and Youth Activism
- Hilda Nakabuye, Climate Activist from Uganda: Climate and Youth Activism
- Wameedh Shakir, Chairwoman of Itar Foundation for Social Development in Yemen; Yemen, Gender, UN Reform
  
  Full list of events and media products:
  
  Wednesday, September 18:
- YEMEN JOINT NGO BRIEFING NOTE: Humanitarian Situation and Funding in Yemen on the Occasion of the 79th United Nations General Assembly
  
  Thursday, September 19:
- OXFAM REPORT + PRESS CONFERENCE + PHOTO CALL: Oxfam is publishing the report “Vetoing Humanity: How a few powerful nations hijacked global peace and why reform is needed at the UN Security Council.”
- Embargoed press release and report
- Public press release and report (links will go live at 00:01 EST)
- As detailed above, Oxfam will be presenting the report at a press conference and presenting a temporary art installation featuring a dove of peace shackled by the weight of the veto by Brooklyn-based artist Miles Giordani.
- OXFAM JOINT CIVIL SOCIETY MEDIA HAPPY HOUR: Oxfam and civil society partners are hosting a happy hour to connect policy experts with media. Media RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/unga-media-civil-society-happy-hour-tickets-1009525918197
  TIME: 5:30-8:30pm
  LOCATION: The Stag’s Head, 252 E 51st Street (at 2nd Avenue)
  
  Friday, September 20:
- FRIDAYS FOR FUTURE + OXFAM EVENT: Youth Climate Strike: Tear Down the Pillars of Fossil Fuels. Oxfam staff and partners will take part; Climate activist Hilda Nakabuye will speak at the rally
  TIME: 2:00-4:00pm
  LOCATION: Meet at Foley Square, RSVP at https://actionnetwork.org/events/youth-climate-strike-tear-down-the-pillars-of-fossil-fuels-2
- OXFAM + TRUST AFRICA EVENT: African Civil Society Dialogue on the Summit of the Future
  LOCATION: Jay Suites – Fifth Avenue, 15 W 38th Street
  Note: This event continues to September 21. For more information contact Gail Smith (gail.smith@oxfam.org.za).
  
  Saturday, September 21:
- OXFAM SIDE EVENT: Summit of the Future – “Transforming Economies beyond GDP: towards a caring and feminist future with people, well-being and planet at the center.”
  TIME: 9:00-10:45am
  LOCATION: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pmurQXRqTlqJFa4Ysp_AFA
- OXFAM EVENT: “Connecting the Global North and South in fulfilling existing legal obligations on climate finance, including loss and damage”
  TIME: 11:00am-12:30pm
  LOCATION: Oxfam NY Office, 369 Lexington Avenue
  Note: For more information contact Karelia Pallan (karelia.pallan@oxfam.org)
- OXFAM + IMPACT COALITION ON AI EVENT: Oxfam’s Neal McCarthy will be speaking on the Panel on AI & Technology Governance”
  TIME: 4:00-5:15pm
  LOCATION: UNHQ – CR12
  
  Monday, September 23:
- OXFAM REPORT: “Multilateralism in an Era of Global Oligarchy” will outline how extreme economic inequality undermines multilateral efforts to effectively respond to critical global challenges like global taxation, health, and debt and propose the solutions needed for progress. The paper provides new global data prepared for UNGA.
- OXFAM STATEMENT: Oxfam will issue a media reaction to the Pact of the Future and Summit of the Future outcomes
- OXFAM STATEMENT: Oxfam will issue a statement ahead of President Biden’s address at the General Debate
  
  Tuesday, September 24:
- OXFAM EVENT: “Building Global Consensus for Justice in Mining for the Energy Transition: Can the UN Critical Energy Transition Minerals (CETM) Panel lead the way?” RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/un-panel-on-critical-energy-transition-minerals-toward-the-change-we-need-tickets-999360422927
  TIME: 3:00-4:30pm
  LOCATION: Oxfam NY Office – Sinatra Room (2nd Floor), 15 W 38th Street
  
  Wednesday, September 25:
- OXFAM SPEAKING ON DEVEX PANEL: “Food as a weapon in the new age of starvation.” Oxfam in Yemen’s Abdulwasea Mohammed, Advocacy, Policy and Media Lead, will speak about the food security crisis in Yemen
  TIME: 10:25-11:00am
  LOCATION: In-person in New York and online at https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-unga-79.html
  
  Thursday, September 26:
- OXFAM + FORD FOUNDATION EVENT: “Multilateralism in an Era of Oligarchy” will explore how extreme economic inequality undermines multilateral efforts to effectively respond to critical global challenges like global taxation, health, and debt; Oxfam panelists will be moderated by The Washington Post’s Karen Attiah.
  TIME: 12:30-2:30pm
  LOCATION: Ford Foundation, 320 E 43rd Street
  Note: Please contact Shelby Bolen (shelby.bolen@oxfam.org) to be added to the RSVP list.
ABOUT OXFAM

Oxfam is a global organization that fights inequality to end poverty and injustice and will highlight the urgent need in tackling the intersections of rising inequality, humanitarian emergencies, and the climate crisis.

MIL OSI NGO –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI NGOs: Hong Kong: Prison sentence for wearing slogan T-shirt is ‘blatant attack’ on freedom of expression

Source: Amnesty International –

Hong Kong man is first to be sentenced under repressive new law

The Government must stop using ‘sedition’ laws to silence dissent

‘Chu Kai-pong has committed no internationally recognised crime and he must be released immediately’ – Sarah Brooks

In response to today’s sentencing of Chu Kai-pong in Hong Kong to 14-months in prison for wearing a “seditious” T-shirt and mask – the first person to be charged, convicted and sentenced under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, Sarah Brooks, Amnesty International’s China Director, said:

“Just when you thought the human rights situation in Hong Kong couldn’t get any bleaker, a man is condemned to more than a year in prison just because of the clothing he chose to wear. This is a blatant attack on the right to freedom of expression.

“The conviction and sentencing of Chu Kai-pong over his choice of clothing also highlights the sheer malice of Hong Kong’s new Article 23 law, which expands the Government’s powers to punish so-called ‘seditious’ acts.

“Chu Kai-pong is the first person convicted under this legislation, but its vague wording, vast scope and repressive nature leaves Hong Kongers fearing that he will not be the last. We once again urge the Hong Kong authorities to repeal this law.

“The Government must also end its use of ‘sedition’ laws to crack down on dissent under the pretext of protecting ‘national security’. Chu Kai-pong has committed no internationally recognised crime and he must be released immediately.”

Prison for protest slogan

Chu Kai-pong was sentenced under section 24 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, the new national security legislation enacted in March this year based on Article 23 of the city’s Basic Law for “an act or acts that had a seditious intention”.

He was arrested on 12 June, the anniversary of the 2019 anti-extradition protests, for wearing a T-shirt bearing the 2019 protest slogan “Liberate Hong Kong, Revolution of Our Times”, and a yellow mask printed with the letters “FDNOL”, the abbreviation of another protest slogan “Five Demands, Not One Less”. He has already been detained for more than three months and denied bail. He was also charged with two other offences: loitering and failure to produce proof of identity for inspection, but these were dropped after he pleaded guilty to the sedition charge.

Under section 24 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, a person convicted of sedition can be imprisoned for seven years. If they are found to have colluded with an “external force”, the maximum sentence is increased to 10 years; previously the offence was punishable by up to two years in prison. According to Amnesty’s records, 12 people have been arrested for sedition – and three charged – under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance since its enactment.

MIL OSI NGO –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI NGOs: India: FATF raps government on the risk to abuse that non-profits face

Source: Amnesty International –

The ‘Financial Action Task Force’ (FATF) in its Mutual Evaluation Report pulls up the Indian government on the risk to abuse that the non-profit sector faces in India, said Amnesty International today. It also flags the delay in prosecutions in India under its money laundering and anti-terrorism laws.

The report published today, based on the fourth round of India’s evaluation on its measures to tackle illicit financing, highlights the ‘critical’ need to ‘taking a risk-based and educative approach with non-profit organisations.’

“The global financial watchdog significantly calls for ‘priority actions’, one of which is to ensure India’s civil society is not unnecessarily harassed and intimidated under the pretext of money-laundering or terrorism-financing. While the Indian Government may harp only on the positives in the FATF’s report on India, they can’t conveniently downplay how they have been rapped for their partial compliance with measures to protect the legitimate activities of the non-profit sector,” said Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India.

The Indian Government… have been rapped for their partial compliance with measures to protect the legitimate activities of the non-profit sector.

Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India

The report shows that India is only ‘partially compliant’ against FATF recommendation 8 which requires that laws and regulations to combat money laundering and terrorism financing target only those non-profit organisations that are identified – through a careful, targeted “risk-based” analysis – as vulnerable to terrorism financing abuse.

Three points of importance flagged in the report by FATF include the inability of India’s Income Tax department to demonstrate that its monitoring and outreach prioritised the 7500 non-profit organizations identified to be at-risk of terrorism financing abuse.

Secondly, the FATF also notes that the burdensome registration and audit requirements that non-profits in India have to undergo are not “always risk-based or implemented based on consultations with [them] to avoid negatively impacting their work”.

Thirdly, the FATF acknowledges that the 2020 amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) were implemented without adequate consultation with non-profits. Thereby, “impacting their activity or operating models”. The Indian government has shut down foreign funding for thousands of civil society groups using FCRA with over 20,600 non-governmental organizations losing their licenses to receive foreign funding in the past decade, many of them groups that have long promoted human rights in the country.

In addition, the report also highlights the delay in prosecutions under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) were “resulting in a high number of pending cases and accused persons in judicial custody waiting for cases to be tried and concluded”. Such delays illustrate the possibility that these laws are being misused to clamp down on human rights defenders by ensuring that the criminal proceedings characterized by stringent bail provisions, prolonged detention, and lengthy investigation act as punishment.

Among the proposed ‘Priority Actions’ the watchdog recommends India should ensure a risk-based approach, including by conducting a more focused, coordinated outreach to non-profit organizations on their Terrorism Financing risks. FATF also recommends India to address the delays in concluding prosecutions under UAPA and PMLA considering high rate of arrests and low rate of conviction under these laws.

The Indian Government must take seriously the priority actions recommended by the FATF report and calibrate its actions to stop the witch-hunt of non-profit organizations, human rights defenders and activists who dare to dissent.

Aakar Patel

Previously, Amnesty International’s research documented how the FATF’s recommendations have been abused by the Indian authorities including by bringing in draconian laws in a coordinated campaign to stifle the non-profit sector. These laws are in turn used to bring terrorism-related charges and, amongst other things, to prevent organizations and activists from accessing essential funds.

“Amnesty International has consistently flagged how these laws have been weaponized by authorities to target, intimidate, harass and silence critics. In consultation with the non-profit sector, the government needs to put in place measures that are focused, proportionate and not overbroad by bringing laws like FCRA and UAPA in line with international human rights standards. The Indian Government must take seriously the priority actions recommended by the FATF report and calibrate its actions with a risk-based approach to stop the witch-hunt under India’s anti-terror and money-laundering laws of non-profit organizations, human rights defenders and activists who dare to dissent,” said Aakar Patel.

MIL OSI NGO –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: Lumad people’s resistance – defending Indigenous communities

Source: Pacific Media Centre

Headline: Lumad people’s resistance – defending Indigenous communities – Analysis published with permission of PMC

Event date and time:

Wed, 04/04/2018 – 4:30am – 6:00am

PACIFIC MEDIA CENTRE SEMINAR 2/2018: INDIGENOUS LUMAD PEOPLE’S RIGHT TO EDUCATION, AUTONOMY AND DIGNITY

The Indigenous Lumad people’s Our Right to Education, Autonomy and Dignity (READ) Programme in the Philippines is rooted in the vision that every child deserves the basic human right of an education.

Today the majority of Lumad children in the southern island of Mindanao remain illiterate and have limited access to education.

Salupongan International is committed to sustaining culture-responsive basic education programmes and schools that help Lumad and Moro students and communities obtain a quality education.

SI currently supports hundreds of indigenous scholars, teachers and faculty from Salupongan Ta Tanu Igkanugon Community Learning Centers (STTICLC), Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Inc. (MISFI) Academy and other community schools throughout Mindanao. STTICLC and MISFI Academy has provided free, quality culture-responsive education to underserved indigenous, Moro and rural communities throughout Mindanao for over a decade.

Two Lumad advocates visiting New Zealand will speak on the issues at the Pacific Media Centre seminar at Auckland University of Technology. Jointly organised by Philippine Solidarity, Asia Pacific Human Rights Coalition (APHRC) and the PMC.

Contact: Del Abcede

When: 4 April 2018, 4.30-6pm

Where: TBC

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: Micronesian militarism – considering climate change

Source: Pacific Media Centre

Headline: Micronesian militarism – considering climate change – Analysis published with permission of PMC

Event date and time:

Wed, 30/05/2018 – 4:30pm – 6:00pm

PACIFIC MEDIA CENTRE SEMINAR 4/2018:
MICRONESIAN MILITARISM – CONSIDERING CLIMATE CHANGE
Pacific Media Centre’s postdoctoral research fellow, Dr Sylvia C Frain, explores the connections between climate change and United States (US) militarism in Micronesia and how both impact the daily life of Micronesians living in Hawai‘i. She is most interested in the everyday experience of Micronesians in relation to climate change and US militarisation from local perspectives. So often media narratives are dominated by outside interests and the US military, which overshadows discussion on climate change. Dr Frain seeks to highlight Micronesian narratives and the role that new media plays in sharing these experiences.

Dr Frain is traveling to the North Pacific in April/May and will report back after attending the 7th International Environmental Futures Conference, held at the East-West Center, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, as well as speaking with students and faculty at the University of Hawai‘i, participants with the Jobs Corps programme on Māui, and those living in the Marianas Archipelago on the islands of Guam, Saipan, and Tinian.

Dr Frain will also facilitate a new media workshop open to all community members in the Marianas Archipelago who are interested in using new media platforms to disseminate research. She will assist the participants in converting their research into a format that is shareable across new media platforms (including, but not limited to: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Change.org).

Who: Dr Sylvia C Frain, research fellow at the Pacific Media Centre

When: May 30, 2018
4.30pm-6pm

Where: Sir Paul Reeves Building
Auckland University of Technology
City Campus
Room WG903A

Contact: Dr Frain

Event on Facebook

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI Reportage: Asia Pacific Journalism projects and internships 2018

Source: Pacific Media Centre

Headline: Asia Pacific Journalism projects and internships 2018 – Analysis published with permission of PMC

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

The Pacific Media Centre is running several Asia-Pacific projects again this year and along with Asia Pacific Journalism (Semester 2) we have a new special paper to match – International Journalism Project (JOUR810).

The deadline for applications is Friday, March 2, at 4pm.

Send applications to: jessie.hsu@aut.ac.nz
Copy to: david.robie@aut.ac.nz

This year’s projects on offer:

Bearing Witness climate change project: Two weeks in Fiji in mid-semester break to experience and cover climate issues. Based at the University of the South Pacific. The PMC pays for return airfares, accommodation and a living koha. Apply and if selected, this counts towards JOUR810 international Journalism Project. More information. Contact: david.robie@aut.ac.nz
Possibly a Fiji elections project in the Second Semester mid-semester break (watch this space).

Pacific Media Watch freedom project: 10 hours a week, paid at HRT08 rates, reporting and editing on media freedom, ethics, educational, training and ownership issues for the digital websites Asia Pacific Report and Pacific Media Watch. More information. Contact: david.robie@aut.ac.nz

NZ Institute for Pacific Research reporting Pacific research project: A part-time internship with the University of Auckland’s Centre for Pacific Studies, but working out of AUT. Organised by the Pacific Media Centre in collaboration with NZIPR. 10 hours a week, paid at HRT08 rates. This assignment involves researching and news gathering and writing profiles about Pacific researchers and their projects. More Information. Contact: david.robie@aut.ac.nz Managed by Research Operations Manager Dr Gerry Cottrell at NZIPR.

Asia Pacific Report international news website: Internships are available on application. More information. Contact: david.robie@aut.ac.nz

Postgraduate students are preferred but there may be opportunities for final-year journalism major students.

Below: Kendall Hutt, one of the 2017 Bearing Witness climate journalists, talks to David Robie about the project. Video: PMC

Attachment	Size
Asia Pacific Journalism Studies_2018flyer.pdf	561.13 KB
JOUR810 International Journalism Project – climate change FIJI_2018flyer.pdf	663.61 KB
PMW project2018_editorjobdesc_sem1-2.pdf	453.23 KB
PACIFIC RESEARCH JOURNALISM PROJECT 2018 Final.pdf	412.54 KB

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI Reportage: WPFD, Indonesia and media ‘open door’ to West Papua

Source: Pacific Media Centre

Headline: WPFD, Indonesia and media ‘open door’ to West Papua – Analysis published with permission of PMC

Event date and time:

Thu, 03/05/2018 – 4:03pm – 6:00pm

PACIFIC MEDIA CENTRE SEMINAR 3/2018:
WPFD, INDONESIA AND MEDIA ‘OPEN DOOR’ TO WEST PAPUA
As the world marks World Press Freedom Day on May 3, Pacific Media Centre’s director, Professor David Robie, talks about the challenges of “press freedoms” in the world’s most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia. David was one of only two New Zealanders among the 1500 global journalists, media policy makers and communication researchers present at the last WPFD conference in Jakarta last May. He was also a keynote speaker at the “Press Freedom in West Papua” seminar in Jakarta organised by the Papuan chapter of the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) in spite of attempts by local authorities to gag the issue at the conference. David also visited a progressive new research library founded by celebrated Australian author, researcher, activist and Indonesian affairs expert Max Lane in the cultural and educational city of Yogyakarta on this trip. he also spoke to Papuan university students at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) while he was in Yogya.

He will share his experiences and reflect on media freedom issues in Indonesia amid a disturbing and growing intolerance towards the secular traditions of the republic and the implications for West Papua.

David’s trip to WPFD was funded by the School of Communication Studies and he has had research papers published in Media Asia and other publications about the issues. David is editor of Pacific Journalism Review and Asia Pacific Report and convenor of Pacific Media Watch freedom project at AUT.

World Press Freedom Day 2018 in Ghana – ‘Keeping Power in Check’

An Indonesian oasis of progressive creativity emerges in culture city

Who: Professor David Robie, director of the Pacific Media Centre

When: May 3, 2018
4.30pm-6pm

Where: Sir Paul Reeves Building
Auckland University of Technology
City Campus
Room WG907

Contact: Professor Robie

Event on Facebook

PACIFIC MEDIA CENTRE SEMINAR 3/2018:
WPFD, INDONESIA AND ‘OPEN DOOR’ TO WEST PAPUA
As the world marks World Press Freedom Day on May 3, Pacific Media Centre’s director, Professor David Robie, talks about the challenges of “press freedoms” in the world’s most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia. David was one of only two New Zealanders among the 1500 global journalists, media policy makers and communication researchers present at the last WPFD conference in Jakarta last May

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: Tanah Papua, Asia-Pacific news blind spots and citizen media: From the ‘Act of Free Choice’ betrayal to a social media revolution

Source: Pacific Media Centre

Headline: Tanah Papua, Asia-Pacific news blind spots and citizen media: From the ‘Act of Free Choice’ betrayal to a social media revolution – Analysis published with permission of PMC

David Robie

Pacific Media Centre

For five decades Tanah Papua, or the West Papua half of the island of New Guinea on the intersection of Asia and the Pacific, has been a critical issue for the region with a majority of the Melanesian population supporting self-determination, and ultimately independence. While being prepared for eventual post-war independence by the Dutch colonial authorities, Indonesian paratroopers and marines invaded the territory in 1962 in an ill-fated military expedition dubbed Operation Trikora (‘People’s Triple Command’). However, this eventually led to the so-called Act of Free Choice in 1969 under the auspices of the United Nations in a sham referendum dubbed by critics as an ‘Act of No Choice’ which has been disputed ever since as a legal basis for Indonesian colonialism. A low-level insurgency waged by the OPM (Free West Papua Movement) has also continued and Jakarta maintains its control through the politics of oppression and internal migration. For more than five decades, the legacy media in New Zealand have largely ignored this issue on their doorstep, preferring to give attention to Fiji and a so-called coup culture instead. In the past five years, social media have contributed to a dramatic upsurge of global awareness about West Papua but still the New Zealand legacy media have failed to take heed. This article also briefly introduces other Asia-Pacific political issues—such as Kanaky, Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinean university student unrest, the militarisation of the Mariana Islands and the Pacific’s Nuclear Zero lawsuit against the nine nuclear powers—ignored by a New Zealand media that has no serious tradition of independent foreign correspondence.

Researcher profile

Robie, D. (2017). Tanah Papua, Asia-Pacific news blind spots and citizen media: From the ‘Act of Free Choice’ betrayal to a social media revolution. Pacific Journalism Review, 23(2): 159-178. Paper available at: https://doi.org/10.24135/pjr.v23i2.334

Thursday, November 30, 2017

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: Flashback to the 1968 My Lai massacre: ‘Something dark and bloody’

Source: Dr David Robie – Café Pacific – Analysis-Reportage:

Headline: Flashback to the 1968 My Lai massacre: ‘Something dark and bloody’

RT’s special report on the My Lai massacre and the cover-up of this atrocity.

THE MELBOURNE Sunday Observer — the original paper of that name which campaigned against Australian involvement as a US surrogate in the Vietnam War — published photographs of the My Lai massacre in December 1969. It was prosecuted for “obscenity” for reporting the obscenity but the charge was later dropped.

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: ‘A cloud over Bukidnon forest’ – the Lumad indigenous rights struggle in Mindanao

Source: Pacific Media Centre

Headline: ‘A cloud over Bukidnon forest’ – the Lumad indigenous rights struggle in Mindanao – Analysis published with permission of PMC

THE MOOD in the chapel on the outskirts of Malaybalay, capital of Bukidnon province was somber. Six datu (chiefs) and several delegates of the indigenous tribal Lumad people of the region were airing their concerns about a controversial New Zealand-backed $5.7 million forestry aid project for the Philippines. Ironically, less than 100 metres away, in a derelict building nestling amid a plantation of benguet pines on land earmarked for the project, were living about 80 “squatters” who in a sense symbolised the problem at the root of the scheme. Squatters would be the term used by some New Zealand officials and their technical advisers. But it was hardly appropriate, and reflected the insensitivity to many of the social and economic problems in the province. The homeless people belonged to the Bukidnon Free Farmers and Agricultural Labourers’ Organisation, or Buffalo, as it was generally known. Their story was one of injustice, victimisation and harassment, only too common in the Philippines.

The opening two paragraphs of Chapter 14 in David Robie’s 2014 book Don’t Spoil My Beautiful Face: Media, Mayhem and Human Rights in the Pacific (Auckland: Little Island Press) summarising his investigation in 1989/1990 into the the controversial $6 million New Zealand forestry aid programme in Bukidnon province, Mindanao, Philippines with a series of articles published in The Dominion and the NZ Listener and other publications.

Robie, D. (2014). A cloud over Bukidnon forest. Chapter 14 in Robie, D., Don’t Spoil My Beautiful Face: Media, Mayhem and Human Rights in the Pacific (pp. 174-183). Available at: ResearchGate

RESEARCH: David Robie: THE MOOD in the chapel on the outskirts of Malaybalay, capital of Bukidnon province was somber. Six datu (chiefs) and several delegates of the indigenous tribal Lumad people of the region were airing their concerns about a controversial New Zealand-backed $5.7 million forestry aid project for the Philippines.

Saturday, April 7, 2018

“Squatters” on their ancestral tribal land in 1989. Conrado Dumindin (second from right rear) and other Lumads in Bukidnon Forest, Mindanao, Philippines.
(16) A cloud over Bukidnon [forest]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324273184_A_cloud_over_Bukidnon_forest [accessed Apr 07 2018]. Image: David Robie

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: PMC’s Bearing Witness 2018 crew arrive in Fiji

Source: Pacific Media Centre

Headline: PMC’s Bearing Witness 2018 crew arrive in Fiji – Analysis published with permission of PMC

Author profile:

Blessen Tom

Hele Ikimotu

Pacific Media Centre

Touchdown Fiji … Last week: Our intrepid Pacific Media Centre Bearing Witness climate media team Blessen Tom (left below) and Hele Ikimotu Christopher prepping in Auckland before departure … Now: On the ground at the University of the South Pacific.

Full story

Touchdown Fiji … Last week: Our intrepid Pacific Media Centre Bearing Witness climate media team Blessen Tom (left below) and Hele Ikimotu Christopher prepping in Auckland before departure

Climate change continues to take its toll on small island nations such as Kiribati and Tuvalu. Image: File – Kiribati in 2009. Jodie Gatfield/AusAID/Wansolwara

Sunday, April 15, 2018

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: Pacific nuclear activist-poet tells stories through culture – and her latest poem
Source: Pacific Media Centre

Headline: Pacific nuclear activist-poet tells stories through culture – and her latest poem – Analysis published with permission of PMC

Pacific Media Centre

Sylvia C. Frain

Tuesday, April 17, 2018

Sylvia C. Frain reports from Hawai’i on the release of a poetry work focusing on the impact of nuclear activity in the Marshall Islands.

Nuclear activist, writer and poet Kathy Jetñil-Kijner from the Marshall Islands has launched her new poetry work which has a focus on nuclear weapons.

Her newest poem, “Anointed” can be seen as a short film by Dan Lin on YouTube.

At da Shop bookstore for the official launch of her poem, Jetñil-Kijner shared her writing process inspiration with the gathered audience.

“I knew this poem could not be a broad nuclear weapons poem, but I needed to narrow the focus,” says Jetñil-Kijner.

The project, which has an aim to personalise the ban of nuclear weapons, began during a talk-story session with photojournalist Lin three years ago in a café.

Jetñil-Kijner told Lin that she wanted to perform a poem on the radioactive dome located on what remains of the Runit Island in the Enewetak Atoll Chain.

Lin, who before this project worked as “only a photojournalist,” agreed to document this collaborative “experiment”. Lin spoke of how Jetñil-Kijner’s previous poems had the “Kathy effect” which were filmed with only an iPhone and went viral across digital platforms.

However, they agreed that this story deserved more in-depth documentation. They partnered with the non-profit organisation, Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL) and with the Okeanos Foundation, specialising in sustainable sea transport. Travelling by Walap/Vaka Motu/Ocean Canoe for 11 days , Okeanos Marshall Islands ensured that zero carbon emissions were used and the experience served as a way to connect with the sea.

Runit Island
The radioactive dome on Runit Island is one of 14 islands in the Enewetak Atoll Chain, and the farthest atoll in the Ralik chain of the Marshall Islands. Enewetak and surrounding area has been studied scientifically after the 43 nuclear bomb explosions (out of the 67 total nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands) by the United States between 1948-1958.

Dubbed the “Cactus Crater”, Runit Island has limited economic possibilities. It is not a tourist destination nor has ability to export goods. No one will visit or purchase products from a radioactive location. This leaves the community dependent on funding from the United States. While many are grateful, they truly want to self-sustaining future.

While conducting research for the poem, Jetñil-Kijner found that most of the literature is scientific and by journalists or researchers who do not include the voices of the local community or share the end results. Jetñil-Kijner wanted to create a poem focusing on the story of place beyond the association as a bombing site, and ask, “what is the island’s story?”

She learned from the elders that the island was considered the “pantry of the chiefs with lush vegetation, watermelons, and strong trees to build canoes”. As one of the remote atolls, the community consisted of navigators and canoe-builders with a thriving canoe culture.

Both Lin and Jetñil-Kijner said visiting the atolls was emotional and that approaching the dome felt like “visiting a sick relative you never met”.

The voyage included community discussions with elders and a writing workshop with the youth. Since the story of the dome is not usually a “happy one” the gatherings and workshops served as a method for the people to tell their stories not covered in the media or reported in US government documents.

Creating the poem with the community also required different protocols and Jetñil-Kijner thanked the community for generously sharing their knowledge and stories. She spoke to how the video connects the local community with a global audience across digital platforms.

Digital technology and the future
Despite the remote location and distance as an outer island, there is limited wi-fi and the community has access to Facebook. These technological advances help with visualising these previous unfamiliar spaces, including using a drone to capture aerial shots of the dome and the rows of replanted but radioactive coconut trees.

Supported by the Pacific Storytellers Cooperative, a digital platform for publishing Pacific voices, more young people are able to tell their stories online and foster relationships beyond the atoll.

The newest generation is raising awareness through the incorporation of cultural knowledge combined with new media technologies to tell their stories. Empowered young leaders continue to unpack the layers of the nuclear legacy while highlighting their unique community and culture.

The Anointed poem and film serves as an educational resource to highlight the nuclear legacy and ongoing environmental issues in the Marshall Islands. This piece also promotes community justice and is a visual learning tool. Jetñil-Kijner and Lin encourage others to share Anointed and to join the call to action to ban nuclear weapons.
- Pacific Storytellers Cooperative – Marshall Islands audio nuclear archive
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3
MORE INFORMATION

Dan Lin’s website

Kathy Jetñil-Kijner’s website

The United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (2017)

International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons
CULTURE: Sylvia C. Frain: On Saturday, nuclear activist, writer and poet Kathy Jetñil-Kijner from the Marshall Islands launched her new poetry work which has a focus on nuclear weapons. Her newest poem, “Anointed” can be seen as a short film by Dan Lin on YouTube.

https://www.kathyjetnilkijiner.com/

Nuclear activist and poet Kathy Jetñil-Kijner … exploring the “pantry of the chiefs with lush vegetation, watermelons, and strong trees to build canoes”. Image: Kathy Jetñil-Kijner

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Analysis –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: Auckland’s iconic Diwali and Lantern Festivals secure naming rights partnership with BNZ

Source: BNZ statements

Two of the country’s most iconic cultural celebrations, the Auckland Diwali Festival and the Auckland Lantern Festival, will continue to delight locals and visitors thanks to a new naming rights sponsorship agreement with the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) announced today.

The Auckland Diwali Festival, known as ‘The Festival of Lights’, draws over 60,000 attendees annually. Since its inception in 2002, the festival has been a vibrant showcase, featuring traditional and contemporary music, dance, and stalls offering Indian delicacies and crafts.

The Auckland Lantern Festival, founded in 2000, marks the culmination of the Chinese New Year festivities. As Auckland’s largest annual festival and New Zealand’s largest Chinese cultural festival, it attracts over 170,000 attendees each year. With its recent move to the Manukau Sports Bowl, the festival promises to deliver a fantastic celebration.

BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says, “We’re delighted to throw our support behind two of New Zealand’s best loved and attended festivals.”

“Our sponsorship of the Auckland Diwali and Lantern Festivals reflects our commitment to growing the social, cultural, and financial wellbeing of New Zealanders. These events align with that mission, bringing hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders from all backgrounds together each year to celebrate Aotearoa’s rich cultural and ethnic diversity.

“We are thrilled to help bring these free family-friendly events to life from 2023 and beyond.”

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Chief Executive, Nick Hill, says the partnership is a significant one.

“As one of New Zealand’s most recognisable brands, we are thrilled that BNZ is partnering with two of Auckland’s most popular cultural festivals. It’s a great example of how Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is working with the private sector to reduce the reliance on ratepayer funding, while still delivering world-class cultural experiences that inevitably make Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland a great place to live, work, and visit.”

This year’s Auckland Diwali Festival will take place on 4-5 November at Aotea Square and Queen Street. Auckland Lantern Festival will be held at the Manukau Sports Bowl from 22 -25 February next year.

The post Auckland’s iconic Diwali and Lantern Festivals secure naming rights partnership with BNZ appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: Boost for early breast cancer detection in New Zealand

Source: BNZ statements

The mission to improve the rates of early breast cancer detection in New Zealand has been given a three tonne, 188 horsepower boost, with BNZ gifting a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van to Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand’s fleet of breast health education vehicles.

As Breast Cancer Foundation NZ begins a series of events to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, including the Pink Ribbon Walk and the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal, it’s CEO Ah-Leen Rayner, says, “Early detection is one of the best tools we have to beat breast cancer. With this new vehicle from BNZ, we will be able to better support remote parts of New Zealand and ensure all our communities can access life-saving breast health education.”

BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says the gift reflects the bank’s commitment to support the communities it’s proud to serve.

“We’re delighted to support the Foundation’s mission, particularly during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Foundation has played a vital role reaching into communities across Aotearoa for decades, and with this contribution we look forward to seeing this life-saving work reach even more New Zealanders.”

Since 2014, the Foundation’s early detection education programme has been run across New Zealand through its Pink Caravan, but the iconic retro vehicle relies on volunteers with the ability to tow it around the country.

The addition of the vehicle gifted by BNZ will enable the Foundation’s nurses and other staff to access remote regions the caravan couldn’t easily get to, allowing the charity to talk to even more women and whānau about the importance of early detection, without relying on volunteers.

The importance of early breast cancer detection is underscored by a ten-year survival rate for women diagnosed early standing at 95 percent. The Foundation, in collaboration with Breast Screen Aotearoa, has been leading the charge, especially in areas with low screening rates.

“We know how important early detection is, particularly for Māori and Pacific women, who have poorer outcomes when it comes to breast cancer,” says Rayner. “That’s why our early detection programme is so vital and is a key theme in our breast health messaging – the importance of regular mammograms and self-checks.”

The former BNZ sprinter van is being overhauled to set it up for community outreach. Once finished, it will boast consultation spaces, technology and an awning for outdoor events, all tailored for breast health education and community engagement. It is also being wrapped in bright pink Breast Cancer Foundation vehicle colours.

“We’re incredibly grateful to BNZ for contributing to our early detection programme, giving us the ability to access more remote locations, be more flexible with the timing of our visits, and increase the frequency of our visits.”

Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s latest vehicle will be on the road early next year.

The post Boost for early breast cancer detection in New Zealand appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: No card? No problem: New Zealanders can now shop online without a credit or debit card

Source: BNZ statements

Ka whangaia, ka tupu, ka puawai (“that which is nurtured will grow and blossom”)

New Zealanders can now easily shop online without needing a credit or debit card, thanks to an API agreement between homegrown Māori fintech start-up BlinkPay and the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ).

BlinkPay provides a platform that connects businesses with their customers using BNZ’s secure API built to Payments NZ standards – a tool allowing third-party services to securely connect with BNZ accounts, with customer consent.

Blink PayNow is a new payment solution that makes online shopping easy by enabling account to account payments within New Zealand with only a couple of clicks, eliminating the need for a credit or debit card, while reducing transaction fees for merchants.

“As pioneers in the API payment solutions space, BlinkPay is proud to collaborate with BNZ, which is a leader in the NZ financial services sector,” says Adrian Smith (Ngāpuhi), Chief Product Officer and co-founder of BlinkPay.

“This collaboration allows BNZ merchants to access BlinkPay’s payment products like Blink PayNow and, in the future, Blink AutoPay. Both products provide a straightforward and secure payment method from a customer’s BNZ bank account.”

Karna Luke, BNZ’s Executive of Customer Products & Services, says it’s about simplifying the digital economy and making it accessible to more New Zealanders.

“Whether it’s for the latest fashion, an annual insurance premium, or other domestic online purchases, this service makes it possible to easily pay for your shopping online with just a bank account.

“Enabled through our secure API, this is a step forward for inclusive banking in Aotearoa, reducing barriers and making it easier for consumers and businesses to benefit from the digital economy.”

BNZ has been providing open banking services since 2018 and has consistently led the market in New Zealand in releasing APIs. It is a strong supporter of industry moves toward secure standards for open banking, and its APIs are already being used by a range of different organisations and companies, from local councils to financial service providers, fintechs, and many more.

How Blink PayNow works

At checkout on a BlinkPay-integrated website, customers simply select Blink PayNow and choose their bank. They are then redirected to their bank’s portal, where payment details are pre-filled.

After reviewing and confirming the payment from their mobile banking app, customers are taken back to the merchant’s site with a successful payment notification.

No credit card details, no lengthy forms, just a few mouse clicks or taps on your smartphone.

Making it cheaper to do business

In addition to providing a user-friendly, secure and accessible payment option for customers, businesses using BlinkPay will also benefit from cheap fees. BlinkPay’s standard fee is 0.95% per transaction, capped at $3.00 NZD, and there is no cost to consumers who pay through the service.

“We’re proud to offer cheaper fees to New Zealand businesses than our multinational rivals. Reduced fees make it easier for businesses to be competitive in the marketplace, which is also good news for consumers,” Mr Smith says.

To introduce this new feature, BlinkPay is offering BNZ-merchants a special deal: no integration fees and half-price transaction fees until 31 December 2023. Merchants can get this offer by signing up on BlinkPay’s website by the 30th of September 2023.

For more details on this payment method, visit BlinkPay’s official website.

The post No card? No problem: New Zealanders can now shop online without a credit or debit card appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: BNZ FY23 Results: Solid performance as economy slows
Source: BNZ statements

BNZ announced a statutory net profit of $1,509 million for the 12 months to 30 September 2023, up 6.7% or $95 million on the previous year. The result reflects a strong first half, with a decline in Net Profit of 12.5% in the second half reflecting the broader economic slowdown in New Zealand.

CEO Dan Huggins says challenging economic conditions have impacted business and household confidence and this has flowed through into BNZ’s result in the second half of the year.

“Inflation, while softening, remains high, and as the official cash rate has risen, businesses and households have taken a more cautious approach to borrowing.

“Despite the slowing economy and intense competition across the banking sector, we’ve continued to see growth across the business as more New Zealanders choose to bank with BNZ.

“Customer deposits are up 5.8% to $78.5 billion compared to the same period last year. Home lending increased 5.3% to $57.7 billion, with nearly 5,000 home loan customers switching to BNZ from other lenders in the 12 months to 30 September.”

Mr Huggins says BNZ remains strong, stable and well capitalised. “With more than $12 billion in total capital, we’re well positioned to continue supporting our customers and the New Zealand economy.”

Supporting our customers

BNZ recognises the cost-of-living pressures that are challenging household budgets, and the concerns New Zealanders have about keeping safe from scams and frauds.

“While most of our home lending customers have moved onto higher rates, we continue to proactively contact those who we have identified as potentially needing additional support,” says Mr Huggins.

“With an increase in scams and fraud impacting more New Zealanders, protecting our customers and helping them stay safe online remains a priority. We continue to invest significantly in fraud protection measures, and we support the establishment of a multi-agency anti-scam centre and the introduction of account name and number matching, which will add additional layers of protection for New Zealanders.

“We continue to work alongside our business customers as they navigate their way through a variety of ongoing challenges. The impacts of adverse economic conditions and this year’s severe weather events are still being felt by a number of our customers.

“We have made $1 billion in low-cost lending available through our Business Recovery and Resilience Fund, committed more than $50 million in interest relief, and provided nearly $900,000 in cash and community grants,” says Mr Huggins.

Outlook

Economic growth is expected to remain flat for the next 12 months, however, Mr Huggins says BNZ is cautiously optimistic that business and household confidence will begin to rebuild in 2024.

“New Zealanders are resilient, and while the year ahead will remain challenging, we are optimistic about New Zealand’s future potential and prosperity. As BNZ has done for the past 160 years, we’ll continue to support our customers and New Zealand.”

Key Financial Items

Note: compared to the year ended 30 September 2022, unless otherwise stated.

Statutory net profit of $1,509 million increased by $95 million, or 6.7%
- Loans and advances to customers increased by $2.5 billion to $102 billion driven by home loan growth
- Customer deposits and other borrowings increased $2.8 billion to $81 billion
- KiwiSaver funds under management increased by $733 million, up 17%
- Total Capital Ratio 15.7% – more than $12 billion invested in New Zealand
An unaudited summary of financial information for the 12 months ended 30 September 2023 follows:

The post BNZ FY23 Results: Solid performance as economy slows appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: BNZ expands investment offering by launching High Growth Funds for the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and YouWealth

Source: BNZ statements

From today, members of the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and investors in YouWealth have the option of investing into High Growth Fund options.

The two High Growth Funds invest 100% in growth assets, providing the potential for higher returns for those who are more long-term minded and understand that it means holding investments through the market cycle which can have its ups and downs.

BNZ’s General Manager of Wealth Peter Forster says the funds provide those with a long investment timeframe with the opportunity to take a more aggressive approach.

“We’re excited to give our customers the choice of a fund that will suit people who are prepared to weather the inevitable market turbulence through their investment journey,” he says.

BNZ has chosen to charge the same low 0.45% per annum fee for the two High Growth Funds as it does across the majority of its BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and YouWealth funds (the exceptions being the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme Cash (0.30% p.a. and Default (0.35% p.a. funds).

“A management fee of just 0.45% for funds that invest 100% in equities represents real value in a market where investors are frequently charged in excess of 1% for more aggressive funds,” says Mr Forster.

BNZ is also launching an updated version of its KiwiSaver Navigator tool today that will recommend the High Growth Fund when appropriate.

The tool will provide users with a detailed breakdown of steps they need to take to get back on track if they are not currently predicted to reach their savings targets. These steps could include increasing contribution rate, changing fund choice or delaying retirement or first home purchase.

BNZ customers can request a KiwiSaver Navigator session by visiting a BNZ branch or over the phone.

Disclaimer:

BNZ Investment Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of New Zealand (‘BNZ’), is the issuer and manager of the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and YouWealth. Download a copy of the relevant Product Disclosure Statement from bnz.co.nz/kiwisaver or bnz.co.nz/youwealth.

Investments made in the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme or YouWealth do not represent deposits or other liabilities of BNZ or any other member of the National Australia Bank Limited group, and are subject to investment risk, including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and principal invested. None of BNZ or any other member of the National Australia Bank Limited group, the Supervisor, and any director of any of them, the Crown or any other person guarantees (either fully or in part) the performance or returns of the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme or YouWealth, or the repayment of capital.

The post BNZ expands investment offering by launching High Growth Funds for the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and YouWealth appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: BNZ Foundation backs marine restoration, social vehicle leasing and community support network in first round of partnerships

Source: BNZ statements

Restoring marine biodiversity, empowering low-income families with affordable low-emissions transport, and developing new ways to support New Zealanders facing financial difficulty are the focus of three projects selected for support through the BNZ Foundation’s inaugural grant round.

$590,000 will go to three charitable programmes: Revive Our Gulf, Waka Aronui, and a new partnership aimed at improving community resilience.

“This marks a significant milestone for the Foundation as we transition from planning to action,” says Dan Huggins, BNZ Foundation Chair. “After 18 months laying the groundwork for the Foundation, we’re delighted to now be in the position to provide tangible support to projects that will make a significant, positive difference for New Zealand.

“The organisations we are partnering with share our vision for a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Aotearoa and align with our funding mandate to make strategic investments in the areas of regenerating biodiversity and improving financial wellbeing,” Mr Huggins says.

Restoring the Hauraki Gulf’s marine ecosystem

Revive Our Gulf—spearheaded by the Mussel Reef Restoration Trust in collaboration with iwi and research partners—is set to receive a significant boost with a three-year, $450,000 commitment from the BNZ Foundation.

The project is at the forefront of restoring the Hauraki Gulf’s soft sediment kūtai (green lipped mussel) reefs: vital ecosystems that once flourished in the region. The project aims to increase biodiversity, enhance water quality, and re-establish critical natural habitats for marine life.

Revive Our Gulf has already deployed over 350 tonnes of mussels in experimental mussel beds in the Hauraki Gulf. As these beds continue to grow in number, thorough monitoring becomes increasingly important. The BNZ Foundation’s financial support will fuel the development of a comprehensive programme for monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on the Gulf’s health and the effectiveness of restoration efforts.

Empowering low-income families with sustainable transportation

Currently in the second year of a three-year pilot in south Auckland, Waka Aronui is a social car leasing programme which aims to provide low-income whānau with safe, affordable, and low-emissions vehicles to support an equitable transition to a greener future.

Many low-income families grapple with costly, high-interest vehicle finance, often leading to unaffordable, poorly maintained, and uninsured vehicles. The pilot, spearheaded by the Ākina Foundation and the Manukau Urban Māori Authority, has shown promising results, improving financial and mental wellbeing, along with environmental benefits through CO2 emissions reductions.

With a $110,000 grant from the BNZ Foundation, a comprehensive feasibility study will explore options to scale the programme to new regions across New Zealand as well as the potential to incorporate new solutions such as vehicle sharing and e-bikes.

Growing the financial wellbeing of New Zealanders

Thanks to seed funding from a range of philanthropic foundations, including a $30,000 contribution from the BNZ Foundation, The Centre for Sustainable Finance: Toitū Tahua is establishing a new partnership between corporates, iwi and community organisations to support more resilient communities. The partnership aims to foster collaboration between corporates and community organisations and encourage new practices, products and services that ensure New Zealanders facing economic hardship can always access essential goods and services.

“These partnerships reflect our commitment to impactful investment. It’s about taking a targeted approach, making every dollar count, and ensuring that our resources bring about substantial and lasting positive change for the country,” says Mr Huggins.

John McCarthy, BNZ Foundation Independent Trustee, says, “The investment decisions we make are deeply rooted in the principles of Kaitiakitanga and Manaakitanga, values that all our partners embody. We look forward to working closely with them and accelerating positive change for our communities.”

For more information on the BNZ Foundation and its funding programmes, please visit bnz.co.nz/bnzfoundation.

The post BNZ Foundation backs marine restoration, social vehicle leasing and community support network in first round of partnerships appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: Unlocking home ownership aspirations for iwi housing – BNZ and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei collaborate on papakāinga development

Source: BNZ statements

24 new whānau homes are under construction on Hawaiki St, Ōrākei in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, thanks to a new funding framework which enables lending for housing on iwi land. Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) collaborated with the central Tāmaki tangata whenua, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, in the development of the framework.

Under the new model, hapū members who meet BNZ’s normal home lending criteria can secure a BNZ home loan for papakāinga housing on land owned by the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust at standard home loan interest rates.

“The framework has made home ownership more accessible for our whānau,” says Grant Kemble, CEO of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa. “BNZ’s commitment to work alongside us, understand our vision, and persevere through complex legal arrangements has been commendable.”

“For our people that will move into these new homes, it will be the realisation of a dream: the security of home ownership on their whenua.”

Historically, obtaining finance for housing on Māori owned land has been challenging. The unique ownership structure and restrictions on land transferability often meant that it couldn’t be used as security for loans, creating a significant barrier for Māori home ownership.

To address this, the new framework employs standard leasehold mortgage lending practices, underpinned by a confidential Deed of Understanding. This ensures that in the face of any challenges, the land integrity and control is preserved with the iwi or hapū, in this case Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, who would take over in the event of a distressed mortgage. This approach balances the bank’s security requirements with the enduring land rights of the iwi.

Developing the model involved significant legal work, which was undertaken with advice and guidance from Buddle Findlay and Russell McVeagh, who provided pro bono legal support to help enable the solution.

BNZ believes the framework may hold promise for broader application among other iwi and the approach has been shared with other banks in the hopes that it will help expand access to finance for development on Māori land across New Zealand.

BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says the prosperity of Māori, and Māori businesses, is vital to the prosperity of Aotearoa.

“BNZ is committed to growing the social, cultural and financial wellbeing of all New Zealanders, and our collaboration with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei is part of our wider strategy to facilitate financial solutions for Māori which enable Māori people and businesses to prosper.

“Considerable thought has been invested in designing this framework to be as flexible as possible, and it has been shared with other financial institutions in the hope of extending its benefits to more iwi across New Zealand.

“We are committed to helping New Zealand and New Zealanders to thrive and prosper. Our collaboration with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei is another example of how we can achieve this. We hope this example will help more iwi to assist their people into warm, dry homes of their own.”

Further bolstering the collaboration with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, BNZ has provided a $20 million social loan, certified by EY New Zealand, to support the construction of the homes. Ground has broken on site, with roofing expected to be laid before the summer holidays. Completion of the homes is expected in 2024.

The post Unlocking home ownership aspirations for iwi housing – BNZ and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei collaborate on papakāinga development appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: From red roses to red flags – BNZ warns of increase in relationship scams ahead of Valentine’s Day
Source: BNZ statements

On Valentine’s Day eve, BNZ is warning Kiwis to be wary of scammers with its customers reporting a 43% increase in relationship and romance scams over the past year.

“There were 167 reported cases in 2023 – and they’re only the ones that we know about as many of these sorts of scams go unreported,” says BNZ’s Head of Financial Crime Ashley Kai Fong.

This is up from 117 reported cases in 2022.

“This shows that despite the headline grabbing nature of these types of scams, relationship scams are still very fertile ground criminals are using to exploit vulnerable Kiwis,” says Kai Fong.

Relationship scams are a type of fraud where criminals pretend to be interested in a relationship with another person, sometimes for romance and occasionally simply for companionship, most commonly online, and then victims are conned out of their money or tricked into sharing personal details.

“All scams can be devastating for victims, but relationship scams are particularly heinous given the time criminals invest in building the relationship with their victims. It can be months before the scammer hints or asks directly for money. They steal your heart, then they steal your money,” says Kai Fong.

In a recent romance scam case, Barry (details have been changed) came to a BNZ branch wanting help to make an international payment to Italy. Barry revealed that the funds were going to his girlfriend’s friend for an airline ticket to New Zealand. They had been dating online for almost a year and he recently started sending his “girlfriend” money. The girlfriend had asked for the money to be sent to her “friend’s account” as her friend had the credit card to purchase the airline ticket.

“There is so much social engineering involved in romance scam cases, and victims often don’t believe that they are caught up in a scam. That is what has happened in this case. Barry refused to believe this was a scam and despite being warned of the risks, he sent the money,” says Kai Fong.

In another case, romance scam victim Sally (details have been changed) believed she was sending money to her US Army surgeon boyfriend stationed in Syria. But Sally’s “boyfriend” said he couldn’t access his bank account due to a poor internet connection and needed the money urgently to fly to NZ. This customer had already sent considerable funds to her “boyfriend” from a number of banks, despite being warned of the risks. The funds for the latest transaction were the proceeds of a personal loan from a finance company.

“As in this case, criminals can go to great lengths to provide evidence to support their fake personas,” says Kai Fong.

“They set up bogus social media profiles, and often share doctored documents such as boarding passes or letters from fake employers. While relationship scams primarily involve romantic relationships, criminals can also exploit friendships built up online too.

“So, while we’ve got an eye out for red roses this Valentine’s Day, and I know it’s not very romantic, my plea is that New Zealanders keep an eye out for the red flags of romance scams this year too.”

How to recognise a romance scam:
- Strong emotions are expressed within a short timeframe.
- The scammer gives you excuses as to why they cannot meet in person or video call.
- They’ve asked you to keep the relationship a secret.
- You’re asked to provide financial assistance.
- You’re asked to receive money on their behalf and forward it to them.
Top tips to protect yourself from romance scams:
- Never send money or give personal or financial information to someone you have just met or have not met in person.
- Do not trust someone who claims to be in love with you after a short time without meeting you.
- Do not trust someone who asks you to communicate only through email, phone, or chat apps and avoids video calls or social media.
- Do not trust someone who has a lot of excuses for not meeting you in person or who cancels plans at the last minute.
- The internet is your friend – use reverse image search to check if their photos are stolen from someone else. Search for their name, email, phone number, or other details on the internet and see if they match what they have told you.
- A great relationship isn’t a secret! Talk to your friends and family about your new relationship. They may be able to spot the signs of a scam that you may have missed.
- Report any suspicious or fraudulent activity to the online platform where you met the person. If you’ve sent any funds, contact your bank immediately.
The post From red roses to red flags – BNZ warns of increase in relationship scams ahead of Valentine’s Day appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Reportage: BNZ’s new low-cost rate loans make it easier for businesses to invest in green assets
Source: BNZ statements

Sustainability is increasingly front of mind for New Zealand businesses, from small startups to large corporates. Surveys by the Sustainable Business Network (SBN) reveal a strong commitment to sustainable practices among NZ corporates, while Stats NZ has found that a third of local businesses are investing in climate change measures. Yet, as RNZ reports, a significant gap remains: While the vast majority of the country’s small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are concerned about sustainability, more than 40 per cent report that they lack the knowledge and resources to become more sustainable.

Recognising this gap, BNZ has announced a refresh of its Green Business Loan proposition, including a limited time, low-cost rate Green Asset Finance Loan. This initiative is designed to help SMEs finance no and low emission vehicles and machinery such as electric forklifts, cars, trucks and buses, at a market leading fixed interest rate of 5.5% p.a. for up to five years, capped at $500k per customer.

“At BNZ, we’ve made a strategic commitment to help build a resilient, regenerative and inclusive Aotearoa for the long term and helping our SME customers reach their sustainability goals plays a huge role in achieving that,” says Alex West, BNZ’s Head of Sustainable Finance – Growth Sectors.

Supporting businesses to be more sustainable is not only key for New Zealand to achieve its climate change commitments, but also brings a range of other benefits, from supporting biodiversity and enhancing water quality to improving labour practices and delivering better social outcomes for our communities.

And as West points out, it also makes strong business sense.

“Switching to electric and plug in hybrid vehicles with BNZ’s Green Asset Finance Loan can significantly reduce fuel and maintenance costs, in addition to the emissions benefits. Being sustainable doesn’t mean sacrificing your bottom line – it’s actually crucial for long term financial success,” he says.

While BNZ’s Green Asset Finance offer is focused on clean transport and machinery assets, West says that the Bank’s wider Green Business Loan proposition can support a diverse range of sustainability initiatives.

“At BNZ, we’re seeing a growing desire among our customers to embark on their own sustainability journeys. They range from those who are already incorporating sustainability into their businesses to many who are keen to make a difference but don’t know exactly where to start.

“Our role is to be there as a trusted advisor, to guide and support them through the process. We collaborate closely with our customers, understanding their unique needs and aspirations, and together, develop sustainable finance solutions to not only benefit their businesses but also contribute positively to our communities and environment.”

South Island Forklifts’ sustainable shift with BNZ

South Island Forklifts, a forklift rental company in Christchurch that has been operating since 1999, has made a major move towards sustainability, investing heavily in eco-friendly electric forklifts, with the help of a Green Business Loan from BNZ.

“We saw adopting green electric forklifts as a logical step for us,” says the owner of South Island Forklifts, Jason Donnithorne. “These forklifts are the future of our industry, and we are dedicated to assisting our customers switch to a more sustainable fleet.

In addition to the environmental benefits of eliminating the need to regularly change used engine and transmission oils, green electric forklifts also have lower operating costs than fuel-powered forklifts. This is because the electricity they use is typically much cheaper than diesel or gasoline.

“With BNZ’s Green Business Loan, we’ve been able to purchase these environmentally friendly machines, which not only match our sustainability values but also offer cost savings to our customers.

“Our aim is to set an example,” he says. “We want to show the industry that making sustainable choices is not just beneficial for the planet – it’s good for business too.”

To discover how a BNZ Green Business or Green Asset Finance Loan can help your business reach its sustainability goals, visit our website or speak to your banker.

Summary: BNZ Green Asset Loan
- Low-cost rate loans are available to finance a broad range of green assets.
- Market leading interest rate of 5.5% p.a., fixed for up to 5 years.
- Maximum loan of up to $500,000 per customer. For lending over $500,000, speak to a BNZ banker about what we can do.
- Available until 17 May 2024 or until the total amount available is exhausted, for new and existing business customers with their main banking relationship with BNZ.
- Eligibility criteria, terms and fees apply, including those that apply to the base product.
The post BNZ’s new low-cost rate loans make it easier for businesses to invest in green assets appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI Analysis –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2024 Article IV Consultation with Vanuatu

Source: IMF – News in Russian

September 3, 2024

Washington, DC: On August 28, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation[1] with Vanuatu.

As Vanuatu was recovering from the natural disasters of 2023 and prolonged disturbance from the pandemic, the voluntary liquidation of Air Vanuatu in May 2024 created a major shock to the economy with substantial implications for growth and confidence. The loss of air connectivity has significant direct effects on economic activity through the decline in tourism and services, and on domestic and international labor mobility and cargo networks. Adverse developments in the Economic Citizenship Program (ECP) are also creating significant impairments to fiscal revenue and financial integrity.

Assuming a resumption of international air connectivity by 2024Q3 and domestic connections to be restored gradually by end-2024, real GDP growth is expected to slow to 0.9 percent y/y in 2024 and recover to 1½ percent y/y in 2025 (from an estimated 2.2 percent y/y in 2023). Limited fiscal revenue and high costs associated with the airline liquidation are expected to exacerbate the deficit and reduce the government’s fiscal space. Consequently, capital spending will likely decline as expenditures are reprioritized, affecting medium- and long-term growth. Although foreign reserves will remain above the RBV’s benchmark, they are forecast to decline due to lower tourism earnings and remittances.

While the loss of connectivity may produce price shocks, inflation, which peaked in 2023, will continue to decelerate as internal and external price pressures ease, supported by reduced demand from tourism and investment. Risks to the outlook remain tilted to the downside, including a worse-than-expected resolution of Air Vanuatu’s liquidation, political instability, geopolitical tensions, China’s slowdown, and severe natural disasters.

Executive Board Assessment[2]

Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They noted the significant economic shock created by the voluntary liquidation of Air Vanuatu just as the economy was recovering from the multiple natural disasters of 2023. With real GDP growth expected to decelerate markedly in 2024, and the balance of risks tilted to the downside, Directors called for urgent measures to address the immediate risks to growth and stability, and then to rebuild buffers and tackle structural issues with accelerated policy reforms.

Directors agreed that in the near term targeted and strategic support is needed to help stabilize the economy. Starting in 2025, they called for urgent fiscal consolidation to reduce sustainability concerns, including re‑establishing and adhering to the fiscal anchor. Against the backdrop of the voluntary liquidation of Air Vanuatu, as well as declining Economic Citizenship Program (ECP) proceeds, Directors also highlighted the structural revenue weakness in Vanuatu and supported calls to strengthen public finances. They emphasized the importance of stronger revenue mobilization, expenditure rationalization, efficiency enhancements for spending, and a strong adherence to the principles of responsible public financial management.

Directors agreed that monetary policy remains appropriately accommodative, but fiscal dominance needs to be reduced. While recognizing that the exchange rate has acted as a buffer, they noted that it requires close monitoring, and welcomed the authorities’ efforts to review the currency basket.

Directors stressed the importance of addressing bank asset quality concerns and enhancing safeguards against financial vulnerabilities, including through upgrading regulatory, supervisory, and monitoring practices. They also agreed that improving governance and reducing vulnerabilities to corruption should remain a priority. In this context, Directors emphasized the crucial importance of enhancing anti‑corruption frameworks and the transparency and supervision of SOEs, including through ensuring an expedited approval of the Commercial Government Business Enterprises Act.

Directors commended the authorities’ efforts to adapt to climate impacts and build resilience against future disasters and called for these efforts to be accelerated. They agreed that investing in quality education and skills training and improving the ease of doing business are crucial to addressing labor and skills shortages in Vanuatu.

[1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

[2] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chairman of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

@IMFSpokesperson

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/09/03/pr24315-vanuatu-imf-exec-board-concludes-2024-art-iv-consult

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Russia News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – CommBank Matildas on loan to Aussie businesses – CBA

Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

Fifty CommBank business customers will have the opportunity to have the CommBank Matildas promote their business as the bank launches marketing support for its customers.

CommBank’s business customers will have the opportunity to have some CommBank Matildas promote their business, as the bank launches further support to help its customers with the rising costs of doing business.

The Aussie sporting legends will lend a helping hand to 50 customers across the country by promoting their business and helping spread the word about the products and services that particular business offers.

Commonwealth Bank Executive General Manager Small Business Banking, Rebecca Warren, said many small business owners were facing challenges on multiple fronts as revenues decline with tightening household budgets and costs of doing business continue to rise.

Recent research commissioned by CommBank1 shows 70 per cent of Australian small to medium businesses have had to cut costs in the last 12 months due to economic pressures, with marketing being one of the top categories where they’ve reduced spend.

“Running a small business is hard work, and often stressful. We know that right now small business owners are finding it particularly tough, and our customers are showing incredible resilience,” Ms Warren said.

“One of the best ways of maximising spending events, especially if you’re running a small business, is targeting your local community with promotions, and a little marketing budget can go a long way.

“We wanted to see what else we could do to back our small business customers at this time, to complement our existing suite of measures to support with cash flow or expenses.

“Whether you’re a dog walker on the Central Coast of NSW, a baker in Fremantle WA, or an online fashion brand based in Melbourne, our business customers could soon have some CommBank Matildas feature on their ads, all paid for by us. We’re excited to be shining a spotlight on some of the amazing businesses around the country.”

The campaign is designed to boost the visibility of the winning businesses with their target audience, be it their local community or online target demographics, and help with the costs of marketing. Along with providing the opportunity to have some CommBank Matildas promote the winning business, CBA will be paying to run the ads in the business’ local area.

To be eligible, applicants must hold an active CommBank Business Transaction Account, have an ABN and operate in Australia. The competition, which can be accessed online, launches today and closes on 1 December 2024. For full details, visit: commbank.com.au/backingbusiness

1 YouGov research conducted on behalf of CommBank (August 2024)

About YouGov research

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov. Total sample size was 510 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 1 – 7 August 2024. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all Australian small and medium business owners and decision makers (aged 18+).

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Submissions: Hong Kong: T-shirt sedition sentencing shows malice of new national security legislation – Amnesty International

Source: Amnesty International

Responding to the 14-month prison sentence handed to Hong Kong man Chu Kai-pong for wearing a “seditious” T-shirt and mask, Amnesty International’s China Director Sarah Brooks said:

“Just when you thought the human rights situation in Hong Kong couldn’t get any bleaker, a man is condemned to more than a year in prison just because of the clothing he chose to wear. This is a blatant attack on the right to freedom of expression.

“The conviction and sentencing of Chu Kai-pong over his choice of clothing also highlights the sheer malice of Hong Kong’s new Article 23 law, which expands the government’s powers to punish so-called ‘seditious’ acts.

“Chu Kai-pong is the first person convicted under this legislation, but its vague wording, vast scope and repressive nature leaves Hong Kongers fearing that he will not be the last. We once again urge the Hong Kong authorities to repeal this law.

“The government must also end its use of ‘sedition’ laws to crack down on dissent under the pretext of protecting ‘national security’. Chu Kai-pong has committed no internationally recognized crime and he must be released immediately.”

Background

Chu Kai-pong was today sentenced to one year and two months in jail for “doing with a seditious intention an act or acts that had a seditious intention” under section 24 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO), the new national security legislation enacted in March 2024 based on Article 23 of the city’s Basic Law.

He is the first person charged, convicted and sentenced under the SNSO. He was arrested on 12 June 2024, the anniversary of the 2019 anti-extradition protests, for wearing a T-shirt bearing the 2019 protest slogan, “Liberate Hong Kong, Revolution of Our Times”, and a yellow mask printed with the letters “FDNOL”, the abbreviation of another protest slogan, “Five Demands, Not One Less”. He has already been detained for more than 3 months and denied bail.

He was also charged with two other offences – loitering and failure to produce proof of identity for inspection – but these were dropped after he pleaded guilty to the sedition charge.

According to section 24 of the SNSO, a person convicted of sedition can be imprisoned for seven years. If the sedition is conducted in collusion with an “external force”, the maximum sentence rises to 10 years. The offence was previously punishable by up to two years.

Hong Kong’s Legislative Council voted unanimously on 19 March 2024 to pass the SNSO under Article 23 of the Basic Law, Hong Kong’s mini-constitution. The SNSO increases penalties for acts relating to sedition and contains many troubling provisions, such as the vague and broadly worded crime of “external interference”.

According to Amnesty International’s records, 12 people have been arrested for sedition – and three charged – under the SNSO since its enactment.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Nations: As floods hit dozens of countries, WFP urges investment to protect weather-battered communities
Source: World Food Programme

Photo: WFP/Mumit M. Bangladesh is currently grappling with severe floods that have impacted nearly 6 million people, particularly in the southeastern and northeastern regions of the country.

Photo credit

ROME – As the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) responds to flood emergencies across the globe, the agency is calling for investment and concerted action to prepare vulnerable communities for more frequent extreme climate events that threaten to damage crops, displace communities and disrupt food systems.

The number of floods in WFP’s areas of operation has increased this year, with at least 21 countries already facing significant flooding, and more expected. The floods exacerbate ongoing crises and threaten food security, while also slowing down efforts to deliver critical relief. In 2023, climate extremes drove 72 million people into crisis or emergency levels of hunger, a 26 percent increase from the previous year.

“Rich and poor countries alike are suffering severe floods and record-breaking storms, and with each passing year extreme climate events are becoming the new normal,” said WFP Assistant Executive Director Valerie Guarnieri. “When flood events come on top of conflict, displacement and hunger, they multiply the strain on communities and governments. Investing in early action and preparedness is essential to protect people’s access to food and this is a core priority for WFP.”

In 2023, WFP assisted almost 18 million people in 60 countries with solutions and services to manage climate risks. WFP’s support for early warning systems and ‘anticipatory action’ – where help arrives before disaster strikes – reached 36 countries, covering over 4.1 million people. WFP-supported climate risk insurance programmes provided 5.1 million people in 27 countries with financial protection.

In flood-affected Bangladesh, WFP recently provided cash assistance to 120,000 families before floods hit – one of WFP’s largest anticipatory action programmes to date. WFP has also been supporting cash-for-work schemes that help rebuild critical infrastructure. From Bangladesh to Somalia, WFP is working with governments and communities to analyse climate risks, strengthen early warning systems and expand climate protection.

“Climate shocks are predictable. By investing in preparedness, we can help reduce the impact of extreme weather and safeguard food security amid the climate crisis,” said Guarnieri. Evidence generated by WFP in Bangladesh and Nepal shows that anticipatory action investments have reduced the cost of humanitarian responses to floods in affected areas by up to 50 percent.

The recent spate of floods worldwide has seen WFP responding on several fronts, most recently in Asia and West Africa.
- In Myanmar, on the government’s request, WFP is gearing up to expand its flood response operations to also reach those affected by Yagi, one of the strongest typhoons to hit Southeast Asia in decades.
- In Laos, WFP teams are on the ground helping the government and partners assess needs and, over the coming days, 100 metric tonnes of rice will be distributed to affected families.
- Chad, Mali, Niger, and Nigeria have been among the hardest hit in some of the worst flooding Western and Central Africa have ever experienced, with more than four million people have been affected. WFP is ramping up its support, targeting a million people across the region – distributing food and cash. WFP is also advocating for expanded anticipatory action and improvements to early warning systems to help respond more effectively.
- In war-torn Sudan, the worst floods in 40 years are adding to the misery caused by the war. WFP has provided food assistance to 41,000 people affected by the flooding and continues operations to assist those affected by the conflict. But floods are complicating the delivery of lifesaving aid.
- In South Sudan, massive flooding is affecting over 735,000 people, most of whom already face extremely high levels of food insecurity. WFP has been planning for a worst-case scenario and initially plans to reach 1.2 million people from mid-September. The flooding is also creating challenges for WFP’s logistics operations, with a sharp increase in airdrops as many communities have become inaccessible.
Forecasts suggest major flooding events will likely continue across Asia, the Sahel, Sudan and South Sudan over the next few months. As La Niña takes over from El Niño, floods and increased tropical storm activity are more likely in Southern Africa, northern South America and Southeast Asia. In addition to the La Niña pattern, the current extremely warm ocean temperatures are fuelling what is expected to be an exceptionally active 2024 hurricane season in the Caribbean.

For photos, click here.

# # #

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media

MIL OSI United Nations News –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: International travel: July 2024
Source: Statistics New Zealand

International travel: July 2024 – 11 September 2024 – International travel covers the number and characteristics of overseas visitors and New Zealand resident travellers (short-term movements) entering or leaving New Zealand.

Key facts
Monthly arrivals – overseas visitors
Overseas visitor arrivals were 221,800 in the July 2024 month, an increase of 8,000 from the July 2023 month. The biggest changes were in arrivals from:
- Australia (up 11,400)
- China (up 10,000)
- United States (down 13,100).
July 2023 saw a boost in overseas visitor arrivals from the United States, coinciding with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 hosted by New Zealand and Australia.

Visit our website to read this information release:
- International travel: July 2024
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
September 29, 2024

Category: Asia Pacific

Updates to this page

Ahead of the UN Summit for the Future, Oxfam calls for reform of the UN Security Council to stop the “Permanent Five” from being their own “judge and jury”

A few highlights from Oxfam’s agenda at UNGA (all times in EST):

Reactive Statements:

Oxfam Spokespeople:

Partners:

Full list of events and media products:

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS