CaMUN 2009

CaMUNews - China and the Palestinian National Authority

2009-05-28T14:55:00.001-04:30

China and PNA Bond

Anneke Ball
May 25th 2009

The people´s republic of China and the Cabinet of Palestine has joined forces resembling their union, in order to be allies and support each other economically. The representatives of both states held a meeting and discussed the current situation and the economical crisis. Among the ministers in the Palestine Cabinet was Ziad Banack: Minister of Agriculture and local government, Minister of information, Riyad Al Malki Minister of Information and foreign affairs. The meeting holds an important meaning for both countries, which now have each other as allies. China agreed to help Palestine giving them weapons and economical aid.

CaMUNews - Joining Forces Against Hamas

2009-05-28T14:49:00.000-04:30

Joining Forces Against Hamas

Anneke Ball

May 25th 2009

The United States of America and the Gabinet of President Barack Obama joined forces with Al Fata and Israel in order to overrule Hamas, destroying the tunnels that Iran uses to suministrate and help Hamas. These tunnels represent their most important income and the base of their economy, the black market. Once the tunnels are eliminated Hamas looses power and economical welfare. The United Nations committed to help with supplies and food as well as economical welfare. The people who were in Palestine will then have a home where they can improve their economy; in order to reach prosperity, peace and democracy. The United States offered Al Fata future economic welfare, development, help fighting Hamas and their power in government in exchange Al Fata committed themselves to be a democratic and peaceful government who fights corruption. The United States will help develop their Nation and then back off the territory as long as Al Fata keeps their promess to be democratic.

CaMUNews - EL PROBLEMA DEL DESARME NUCLEAR AÚN SIGUE SIN SOLUCIONARSE

2009-05-28T14:47:00.000-04:30

José Guillermo Gonzalez

EL PROBLEMA DEL DESARME NUCLEAR AÚN SIGUE SIN SOLUCIONARSE

Durante el transcurso del día de hoy se discutió en el comité de Desarme y Seguridad el tópico de desarme nuclear. Varios países expusieron posibles soluciones en conjunto. Corea e India estaban de acuerdo en que el plan de desarme no era viable, puesto que convencer a delegaciones como la de Irak e Irán de desmantelar sus armas implicaba grandes dificultades.

India se negó a erradicar sus armas nucleares hasta que todos los países en el mundo se desarmen, ya que ellos necesitan protección contra naciones que las posean: “no queremos ser un blanco fácil”, dijo esta delegación. La delegación de Ghana amenazó a la delegación de la India:“si la india se niega a desarmarse todas las naciones nos uniremos y dejaremos extinta la raza India”.

Corea, India, Irán e Irak anunciaron que había dos pasos a seguir para erradicar las armas nucleares en sus países. En primer lugar todos los países debían desarmarse. Seguido a eso, exigieron que se hiciera una modificación del Tratado de no Proliferación de las Naciones Unidas.

CaMUNews - SE SIGUEN BUSCANDO SOLUCIONES CONTRA LA PIRATERÍA EN SOMALIA

2009-05-28T14:31:00.001-04:30

Caracas, 25 de mayo del 2009

Yoselin Desire Alvarez Montoya

SE SIGUEN BUSCANDO SOLUCIONES CONTRA LA PIRATERÍA EN SOMALIA

A las 9 y cuarto del día de hoy, en el Consejo de Seguridad, se comenzó a discutir la situación de la piratería por la que está pasando Somalia, tratando de encontrar soluciones “viables”. China reformuló la propuesta de la embajadora de Somalia de evacuar a los niños a otros países, con la finalidad de disminuir la población haciendo más fácil erradicar el problema. Al comienzo, China se mostraba firme en contra de aceptar esta propuesta, no obstante, la terminó apoyando.

CaMUNews - SE DISCUTEN CAMBIOS EN LOS PRECIOS DEL PETRÓLEO PARA PODER CONFRONTAR LA CRISIS EN NIGERIA

2009-05-28T14:30:00.000-04:30

25 de mayo del 2009
SE DISCUTEN CAMBIOS EN LOS PRECIOS DEL PETRÓLEO PARA PODER CONFRONTAR LA CRISIS EN NIGERIA

Sasha Botbol y Sarina Hayon

Hoy, en el Gabinete de la OPEP, se discutieron posibles soluciones para solventar a la crisis económica que está confrontando Nigeria. Arabia Saudita y Emiratos Árabes propusieron la disminución del precio del barril del petróleo. En contraposición con ellos, Irán, Nueva Zelanda e Irlanda buscaron el aumento de más o menos un total de 6 dólares, precio medio que permitiría el impacto en el mercado sea menor y que generaría una situación equilibrada.

Los países tienen una constante preocupación por esta situación. Venezuela afirmó estar abierta a cualquier necesidad que presente Nigeria, a pesar de no ser un país fronterizo de este, prestando colaboración mediante uno de sus principales productos primarios, el petróleo.

CaMUNews - SEVERAL CASES OF MEXICAN’S IMMIGRATES DELIQUESCES

2009-05-28T14:29:00.001-04:30

SEVERAL CASES OF MEXICAN’S IMMIGRATES DELIQUESCES

In the last few months its been discussed the case, between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of Mexico, in front of a group of judges, of certain Mexican citizens who lives and work in the United States, supported by the Government of this country, and who has made ilegal actions, by killing some American citizens, and pretending to keep the support of the government. Wanting to still live in the nation and having no troubles with the government after their attack to citizens of the country where they immigrated.

The government of the United States of America has agreed in keeping these Mexicans citizens in their country, but they can’t stand the fact that, after all the support and benefits given by them to the Mexicans, these people has made that kind of murder to those Americans. In the other hand, the Mexican Government affirms that the American Government should allows his citizens to stay in their country taking the needed actions about the case of each Mexican. The American government is wondering how the Mexican authorities ask for that even when themselves, governors of the immigrating Mexicans in America, doesn’t even respect the rights of these people been in their own country.
Caracas 25 de mayo 2009

CaMUNews - EMPIEZA LA DISCUSIÓN SOBRE EL TEMA DE LA LIBERTAD SEXUAL

2009-05-28T14:01:00.001-04:30

EMPIEZA LA DISCUSIÓN SOBRE EL TEMA DE LA LIBERTAD SEXUAL

Nicole Rodríguez Benzaquen.

Durante el día de hoy, en el Comité de Derechos Humanos, tomó lugar la discusión del tópico relacionado con la libertad sexual, para así poder consolidar soluciones coherentes sobre el tema. Algunas delegaciones como las de México, Reino Unido, Burkina Faso, Hungría, Estados unidos, Bután, entre otras, expresaron su apoyo y tolerancia a las orientaciones sexuales entre individuos del mismo sexo, comunicando su gran preocupación por la falta de apoyo hacia las personas con esta orientación sexual diferente. Por el contrario, países como China, Sudáfrica, Etiopia, entre otros, manifestaron su desacuerdo con respecto a estas relaciones que consideran desorientadas y que corrompen a la sociedad y en especial a los niños, siendo actitudes que no son admitidas en las posiciones oficiales de dichas delegaciones.

CaMUNews - Gases Tóxicos Generan Cambios Climáticos

2009-05-28T08:59:00.000-04:30

GASES TÓXICOS GENERAN CAMBIOS CLIMÁTICOS

Adriana Scioscia

La India está sufriendo daños permanentes por la presencia de gases tóxicos en el medio ambiente. No obstante, esta emisión de gases favorece a la economía del país, en consecuencia, reducirlos no es factible para la nación, por lo que solicitó nuevas propuestas a dicha situación.

Sin embargo las otras delegaciones concordaron en que este problema de los gases tóxicos afecta globalmente una amplia gama de factores entre los que se encuentran los económicos, sociales, ambiéntales, entre otros. “Un 12,5% de la economía depende de la agricultura y ésta es afectada porque no hay alteración en el clima, hay grandes vaguadas que hacen que se pierdan las cosechas u olas de calor que también dañan a las mismas “, afirmaron las autoridades colombianas.

CaMUNews - Presencia de Armas Nucleares Genera Disputa

2009-05-28T08:57:00.000-04:30

PRESENCIA DE ARMAS NUCLEARES GENERA DISPUTA

Hoy se llevó a cabo en la delegación de Desarme y Seguridad de las Naciones Unidas una polémica discusión sobre el uso de la tecnología nuclear: “No deben haber 5 países que tengan armas nucleares, ninguno debe poseerlas”, afirmó la delegación del Congo. Las delegaciones de Bélgica, Argentina, Indonesia, Japón, Siria, Chile, India, República Checa y Sudáfrica concordaron con esta propuesta para lograr la paz mundial, y declararon que la energía nuclear debe seguir utilizándose para el desarrollo de los países.

La delegación de Corea del Norte, poseedora de armas nucleares, anunció: “Debemos tener armas nucleares para protegernos mas no para atacar a otros países”. China se mostró en desacuerdo, puesto que Corea debería desarmarse antes de pedirles a los demás países que lo hagan. “Los países que poseen armas nucleares se ubican en un pedestal” anunciaron las autoridades de La India.

CaMUNews - Constantes Ataques Piratas Afectan a Somalia

2009-05-28T08:56:00.000-04:30

CONSTANTES ATAQUES PIRATAS AFECTAN A SOMALIA

Nicole Rodriguez

En la actualidad el Estado de Somalia está siendo afectado por constantes ataques piratas en donde secuestran barcos petroleros que contienen millones de dólares. Debido a este problema, Somalia expuso su gran preocupación ante dicha situación. En consecuencia, Estados Unidos se ofreció a colaborar con la logística de una organización que reúna a tropas del ejército africano, para así cesar con los secuestros que causan pérdidas para la economía en general.

CaMUNews - Buscando Soluciones sobre el VIH-SIDA

2009-05-28T08:55:00.000-04:30

VIH “PROBLEMÁTICA QUE DEBE SER ATACADA DESDE LA RAIZ”

Yoselin Desiré Álvarez Montoya

Francia propuso soluciones rápidas para atacar el VIH, entre las que se encontraban hacer campañas e informar a las personas para que vieran el daño que ocasiona el virus. Otra salida viable es educar a los niños, adolescentes y adultos sobre este tema.

Después de largos comentarios y propuestas, la alteración en algunos delegados todavía es evidente. Siguen en la búsqueda de soluciones rápidas y precisas a este problema.

CaMUNews - The NYC Mafia 1945

2009-05-28T08:51:00.002-04:30

The NYC Mafia and their various issues, don’t mess with them

- May 24rd 2009

The NYC Mafia one of the toughest and biggest mafias suffered a number of crisis among their family members, from rape to kidnapping the Mafia is full of trouble. Among the family members there is John Tramalia, the Philadelphia family, Don Gaetano Gagliano and Mr. Manglano. The first issue consisted in the assassination of Don Bonano’s son, for transferring information about the family affairs to the police. The debate started with declarations from the Bonano family and Mr.Mongano. Bonano declared how unfair his son’s death was, and that’s no way of making business accusing Mr.Mongano, to which Mr.Mongano responded that’s the way they make business, and they have true prove from their own private investigator of the actions made by Don Bonano’s son. During these declarations, Joseph Zerilli also part of the Mafia, constantly declared the importance to look for peace, how they shouldn’t let these family affairs affect the business. Following important declarations made by both John Tramalia and Monglano.

Later new information is presented regarding the case: A man took the women who work in Mr. Columbus prostitution club, to Joseph Zerilli’s house, raped the women and later killed them. The man is believed to be Zerilli. To these declarations Zerilli responded and demonstrated he was insulted by these outrageous declarations, to which he pleads innocent. “Somebody pretended that I was a rapist, and broke into my house. I’m a businessman I would never do that. Did I ever get out of here and then came back full of blood? No! Somebody wanted to frame me as a sexual animal and all you do is accuse me of being that, I feel insulted. I believe we should investigate,” said Joseph Zerilli. Statements made by Colombo followed the declaration, whim’s business suffered do to the murder of his prostitutes. Colombo was outraged, and considered an investigation as well as the matter taken care of immediately.

Later Mongano learns of more awful news: The prostitution ring was burned down, the women’s bodies have injuries and messaged written down in blood, he received a bag containing three fingers inside, a letter and a picture of his son who only has seven fingers. The place is dreadfully, and Mr. Mongano’s business has been hit badly. Outraged and angry Mongano stated they’ve gone “too far”. There was no right to kidnap his son, who had nothing to do with the issues presented before. Zerilli always being the peaceful one, declared the family should look for peace forget about the issues and stop committing murder that will just lead to even more trouble. The mafia receives an anonymous letter, a man found in his country house a man al most dying near a lake, and the mafia believes this man is Mongano’s kidnapped son. Anastasia declares himself innocent; he has no interest what so over in killing a man, to these declarations once again Zerelli looks for peace. The mafia is a dangerous group, there business being there most important priority, no matter who it is that comes in there way, they will take care of it.

Comités CaMUN 2009 - Crisis Conjunta - Guerra de las Malvinas

2009-02-25T09:07:00.000-04:30

Crisis Conjunta – Guerra de las Malvinas 1982 (02 de abril al 14 de junio)

La Guerra de las Malvinas o Guerra del Atlántico Sur (en inglés Falklands War) fue un conflicto armado entre Argentina y el Reino Unido que tuvo lugar en las Islas Malvinas, Georgias del Sur y Sándwich del Sur. La guerra se desarrolló entre el 2 de abril, día de la invasión de las Islas por parte del ejército argentino, y el 14 de junio de 1982.

La causa inmediata fue la lucha por la soberanía sobre estos archipiélagos australes, tomados por la fuerza en 1833 y dominados desde entonces por el Reino Unido, algo nunca aceptado por Argentina que los sigue reclamando como parte integral e indivisible de su territorio; de hecho, considera que se encuentran ocupados ilegalmente por una potencia invasora y los incluye como parte de su provincia de Tierra del Fuego, Antártida e Islas del Atlántico Sur.

Cumbre de Jefes de Estado de UNASUR

2009-02-25T09:06:00.000-04:30

Cumbre de Jefes de Estado de UNASUR
(Unión de Naciones Suramericanas)

Ítem 700.- La cuestión de la promoción de la cohesión social, de la inclusión social y de la justicia social en la región.

Ítem 701.- La cuestión de la integración energética.

Ítem 702.- La cuestión sobre el cuidado del medio ambiente y aprovechamiento de los recursos naturales.

Comités CaMUN 2009 - Comités de Crisis (English - Spanish)

2009-02-25T08:52:00.000-04:30

Special Committees / Crisis Committees

-G8+5 Heads of State Summit

-United States Cabinet 2009-2012 (White House Senior Staff)

-Israeli High Command Vs. Arab High Command 1973 (The Yom Kipur War)

-Knesset Foreign Affairs & Defense Committee, Israeli Cabinet and Palestinian National Authority Cabinet

-May 1968: President De Gaulle Cabinet Vs. Leftist Rioters

- Cold War - The Fall of the Berlin Wall: U.S Cabinet and Soviet Politburo

-Futuristic United Nations Security Council (2025)

-The Spionage Game 1962: CIA vs. KGB

-The New York City Mafia (1945)

Comité de Crisis – Gabinete del Presidente Rómulo Betancourt

2009-02-25T07:53:00.000-04:30

Comité de Crisis – Gabinete del Presidente Rómulo Betancourt
1960-1962

Rómulo Betancourt fue fundador del partido Acción Democrática. Político y periodista, presidió la Junta Revolucionaria de Gobierno entre 1945 y 1948. A pocos días de cumplir 52 años llega a la presidencia constitucional de la República. Obtuvo la victoria en elecciones libres convocadas para el 7 de diciembre de 1958 por la junta de gobierno con una votación de 1.284.092 sufragios, un 49,18% de los votos emitidos para Presidente.

Este comité desarrollará los principales acontecimientos ocurridos en el gobierno de Betancourt durante los años 1960-1962. El objetivo fundamental será el análisis, estudio y acción sobre diversos hechos (nacionales e internacionales) que sucedieron en Venezuela y que marcaron el devenir histórico de la naciente república democrática moderna en la década de los sesenta.

Cumbre Agencia Internacional de Energía y Organización de Países Exportadores de Petróleo (AIE – OPEP)

2009-02-25T07:52:00.000-04:30

Cumbre Agencia Internacional de Energía y Organización de Países Exportadores de Petróleo (AIE – OPEP)

Muchos de los países miembros de la Agencia Internacional de Energía son consumidores de petróleo; otros, productores y, dentro de ese grupo, encontramos una importante representación de naciones en vías de desarrollo y vinculados a la Organización de Países Productores de Petróleo. Esta cumbre tiene como objetivo fundamental discutir sobre la situación actual del mercado petrolero-energético, los cambios volátiles que suceden en el mismo, entre otros asuntos. De igual manera, el impacto de los recursos energéticos en el medio ambiente y la búsqueda de alternativas, mediante inversiones a largo plazo, para el desarrollo económico-social.

Ítem 800.- La cuestión de contrarrestar la volatilidad del mercado energético mundial ante factores como terrorismo, desastres naturales, crisis políticas y económicas.

Ítem 801.- La cuestión de establecer un plan conjunto que permita la producción eficiente y equitativa de petróleo, así como de fuentes alternativas de energía.

Comités CaMUN 2009 - Consejo de Seguridad 2009

2009-02-25T07:51:00.002-04:30

Consejo de Seguridad (2009)

Ítem 600.- La situación en Sudán.

Ítem 601.- La situación en Uganda.

Ítem 602.- La cuestión de la cooperación internacional en la lucha contra el terrorismo y otras formas de violencia.

Ítem 603.- La situación en Somalia.

Comités CaMUN 2009 - Consejo de Derechos Humanos

2009-02-25T07:51:00.001-04:30

Consejo de Derechos Humanos

Ítem 500.- El Derecho Individual y Colectivo a la Libertad de Expresión y de Opinión.

Ítem 501.- Los Derechos Humanos y la Diversidad Sexual.

Ítem 502.- Los Derechos Humanos y la Libertad Religiosa.

Comités CaMUN 2009 - PNUD y BIOMA

2009-02-25T07:48:00.000-04:30

Programa de las Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo

Ítem 300.- La cuestión de la vulnerabilidad económica de los países en vías de desarrollo ante los cambios climáticos.
Ítem 302.- La cuestión sobre el uso, aprovechamiento y acceso al agua potable.
Ítem 303.- La cuestión de aplicación de políticas que permitan el desarrollo sustentable en países en vías de desarrollo.

Comité de Bioética y Medio Ambiente

Ítem 400.- Calentamiento Global: Emisiones de Carbono y el Desarrollo Mundial. Situación Actual. Retos, Tareas, Alternativas.

Comités CaMUN 2009 - ECOSOC

2009-02-25T07:47:00.001-04:30

Consejo Económico y Social

Ítem 200.- La cuestión de facilitar el acceso a programas de vacunación contra enfermedades, epidemias y en la lucha contra el VIH-SIDA en los países en vías de desarrollo, de acuerdo a los Desafíos del Milenio establecidos por Naciones Unidas.

Ítem 201.- La cuestión sobre el impacto económico y social en el uso de biocombustibles como fuente alternativa de energía.

Ítem 202.- Impacto de la crisis económica mundial en las economías en vías de desarrollo.

Comités CaMUN 2009

2009-02-25T07:12:00.001-04:30

Comité de Desarme y Seguridad Internacional

Ítem 100.- La creación de una zona “libre de armas nucleares” en Oriente Medio y el Sudeste Asiático.

Ítem 101.- El rol de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas y otros organismos multilaterales en los conflictos bélicos: El Uso de la Fuerza y sus consecuencias.

Ítem 102.- La cuestión de la lucha y prevención en el uso de armas por parte de grupos beligerantes en el continente africano.

Ítem 103.- La cuestión de reducir el uso de los recursos naturales en conflictos (cualquiera su naturaleza u origen)

Invitación al Caracas Model United Nations 2009

2009-01-11T15:32:00.000-04:30

Construyendo Puentes de Justicia y Paz a través de las Naciones

Estimados Delegados, Profesores y Asesores

De nuestra mayor consideración.-

Reciban un cordial saludo. En nombre de la Dirección General del Sistema Educativo
Comunitario, de la Dirección del Liceo Moral y Luces "Herzl-Bialik", del Departamento de Ciencias Sociales y del comité organizador CaMUN 2009, queremos invitarles a la octava edición del Caracas Model United Nations, simulacro de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas que tendrá lugar en la sede de nuestro Liceo en la fecha del 24 al 26 de mayo de 2009.

Será realmente grato y satisfactorio para nosotros contar con vuestra presencia en las
octavas jornadas del modelo. A través de los años, ustedes han sido y serán los protagonistas de esta maravillosa experiencia educativa que es CaMUN. La colaboración, trabajo en equipo, coordinación que ustedes como profesionales de la Educación y como estudiantes, en pleno de proceso de formación y crecimiento académico y humano han manifestado, es el motivo que nos impulsa a seguir adelante y dar, año tras año, lo mejor de nosotros en pro del bienestar y satisfacción de esa Venezuela que sabemos es posible, donde nuevos líderes asumirán tareas y roles en pro del bienestar y desarrollo de esta "Tierra de Gracia".

Para la edición 2009 del modelo CaMUN el comité organizador ha expandido el número de comités de trabajo, tanto en inglés como en español, dando un énfasis especial a los comités de crisis y/o experimentales. Sabemos que ello representa un mayor esfuerzo por parte de todos, deseando aumentar en instituciones y sobre todo, en estudiantes que no hayan tenido esta experiencia de aprendizaje.

Nuevos comités y nuevos retos que en los archivos que anexamos a la presente comunicación detallarán. Uno de ellos es el Blog que el modelo maneja desde el año pasado. http://www.camuncaracas.blogspot.com es el espacio creado por el comité organizador del modelo, conjuntamente con el Departamento de Ciencias Sociales del Liceo Moral y Luces Herzl-Bialik Allí encontrarán información sobre el modelo, referencias y noticias de actualidad. Además, deseamos que el blog sea un espacio para el intercambio de contenidos, preguntas, dudas y requerimientos que ustedes, como parte fundamental, vital de CaMUN 2009 tengan a bien formularnos. Esperamos sea de su agrado.

Recordamos que los liceos oficiales no cancelan importe alguno y reciben ayudas en lo que a almuerzos y servicios se refiere. El comité organizador considera, igualmente, a
algunas instituciones educativas que por razones expuestas y consideradas ante el mismo puedan recibir los mismos beneficios que los anteriores.

Aquellas instituciones educativas que asistieron a la reunión del pasado 17 de noviembre de 2008 y entregaron su planilla de solicitud, recibirán desde el 12 de enero de 2009, las delegaciones ante el modelo.

Desde el comité CaMUN 2009 estamos a su entera disposición. En el portal web
www.secmyl.com colocaremos información sobre el modelo. Si desean contactarnos pueden hacerlo por los correos camun@secmyl.com camun2009@yahoo.com o por el teléfono (212) 2736854 Departamento de Ciencias Sociales del Liceo Moral y Luces Herzl-Bialik

Sean Bienvenidos(as) a CaMUN 2009, siendo una vez más protagonistas, líderes y
facilitadotes de un mundo diferente: “Constructores de Puentes de Justicia y Paz a través de las Naciones”

Se despide con un cordial Shalom;

Alejandro Coriat

Secretario General CaMUN 2009

Lic. Víctor Da Costa M.
Jefe Departamento Ciencias Sociales

Consejo de Seguridad 2008

2008-04-07T16:23:00.001-04:30

Consejo de Seguridad
Jacobo Sarshalom

Irán no puede seguir enriqueciendo de uranio luego que amenazaran con destruir a Israel. En la actualidad Irán padece sanciones por parte del Consejo de Seguridad.

Al comienzo del foro Irán reitero que hasta que no se le suspendan las sanciones, no comenzarían a negociar, ya que se cansaron que ciertos países tratan de impedir que se enriquezca uranio y reiteraron que desean a Israel fuera del medio oriente.

Ante dicho planteamiento Israel respondió que Irán debería seguir el consejo de Rusia, para así evitarse sanciones por parte del mundo. Igualmente Estados Unidos le exigió a Irán rectificar las palabras de su Presidente en cuanto a la destrucción de Israel, además le recordó que no se pretende impedir su progreso, que lo puede lograr a través Rusia.

En cierto momento la delegación de Indonesia recuerda que se esta en un Consejo de Seguridad y que tienen la influencia para cambiar las decisiones del presidente. Francia ofreciendo su respaldo a Indonesia expresó que no se puede permitir a Irán que enriquezca uranio porque han amenazado en reiteradas ocasiones que desean destruir a otro Estado.

Varias delegaciones estuvieron de acuerdo que era necesario analizar las sanciones, para poder eliminar algunas y poder así avanzar. Rusia reitero su apoyo a las naciones Árabes ya que desean un desarrollo endógeno y pidió no malinterpretar a Estados Unidos.

Se llegó a proponer que Rusia le proporcione energía nuclear a Irán, para que la comunidad Internacional esta tranquila que no se usarían esta tecnología con fines bélicos y que a futuro se le permitiría producir este tipo de energía.

Consejo de Europa: Reforma a los derechos humanos

2008-04-07T16:21:00.000-04:30

Consejo de Europa
Reforma a los derechos humanos a través de una carta.
Sarina Hayón

La delegación de Suecia planteó la modificación de la Declaración Universal de los Derechos Humanos a través de una carta, lo cual fue refutado por el delegado del Reino Unido; Francia, Eslovaquia, entre otros, quienes manifestaron que no se pueden cambiar los derechos humanos, sino por un consenso general.

Por otra parte Francia leyó una carta de los derechos humanos y explicó que se debe proponer una modificación a la carta que los haga más relevante y que se hagan cumplir. Croacia opinó que no se debe crear nuevas resoluciones o cartas sino que todas los países presentes en ese comité los cumplieran al pie de la letra.

Eslovaquia admitió que hay un funcionamiento deficiente de estos organismos por lo tanto que se debía revisar y no crear nuevas leyes.

Dinamarca advierte que los niños son los que se encuentran en todo el mundo y por esto es importante que los niños en el presente tengan en claro cuales son sus derechos para que en el futuro se haga cumplir y no dejen violar sus derechos.

Desarme y Seguridad Internacional

2008-04-07T16:12:00.000-04:30

DISEC
Andrea Rodríguez (Enviada especial)
En la tercera sesión de la comisión de DISEC se discutió “la materia del oriente medio” el cual inicio con la intervención de las delegaciones de las repúblicas de Irán, Jordania, y Argentina quienes explicaron la propuesta en la que plantean la implementación de chips en armas para facilitar su búsqueda, el establecimiento de controles que regulen las armas en cada nación, intervenciones de “grupos informativos” en Israel para mayor seguridad, entre otras soluciones, que fueron apoyadas y rechazadas por distintas delegaciones, entre estas destacaron Venezuela, Ruanda, Turquía, Francia, entre otros, quienes argumentaron el porque el rechazo de dichas propuestas.
Posteriormente se propuso una segunda hoja de trabajo por la republica democrática de Corea, Turquía y Kuwait en la cual declara prudente designar al consejo de seguridad para que se propicie el cese de fuego por las naciones que intervienen en el conflicto así como también la designación de Jerusalén como la capital oficial de Israel. Esta posición recibió críticas de la delegación de Rusia, Ruanda, Argentina, entre otros.
Es importante resaltar que delegaciones como la Federación Rusa y Venezuela, alegan “la hoja de ruta como la base que debería ser usada para llegar a acuerdos” ya que las mismas destacan que propuestas de otras hojas de trabajo se encuentran implementadas en la hoja de ruta.
Es importante que el comité llegue a un acuerdo con respecto a un conflicto que empeora a cada segundo.

Taiwanese Cabinet

2008-04-07T16:07:00.001-04:30

Taiwanese Cabinet
Jonathan Viloria
Taiwan as a country it can have a great economy that’s why China don’t want to let it go and is obvious, they lose of this state means a down in the economy. Taiwan asks for help from United States and it responds that it will help in a case of a war.
In case of a war or of a bombing, they decide to make an evacuation plan, because they don’t have money to fight against China so what they do are two plans: First to all, prepare the defense with United States and make a evacuation plan for the civilians which include alarms, refugees camps, food medical stores in the way and a map of the road.
China attack again and they said that they will not stop the attacks.

Comité de Ciencia y Tecnología: Religión contra tecnología

2008-04-07T16:04:00.000-04:30

Comité de Ciencia y Tecnología
Religión contra tecnología
Rosanna Mattout

Las delegaciones de Irán, Jordania y Palestina se han manifestado en contra del uso de la tecnología para optimizar los cultivos mediante tecnología, ya que las leyes musulmanas no lo permitían.

Sin embargo, se dio a conocer un informe que revelaba el uso de cultivos de arroz con tecnología biológica y química nuclear por parte de la nación persa, lo que caldeó el debate.
Continúan las deliberaciones para demostrarle a las naciones la importancia de los recursos tecnológicos en pro de la humanidad.

Comité de Defensa del Senado Norteamericano: Demócratas critican, Republicanos defienden

2008-04-07T16:03:00.000-04:30

Comité de Defensa del Senado Norteamericano
Demócratas critican, Republicanos defienden
Abraham Rosales

El Comité de Defensa del Senado discutió las dos posturas políticas que tienen dividida a la opinión estadounidense sobre el destino de las tropas de ese país en Irak, especial énfasis han tenido los ataques de los insurgentes iraquíes que han venido afectando la moral de las tropas e influido en las relaciones con Turquía e Israel.

Los republicanos plantearon la necesidad que las tropas permanezcan en Irak hasta que se logre controlar la situación, ya que consideran que esa guerra civil, que se desarrolla dentro de ese país, afectará a futuro también a otras naciones del oriente medio, y que sólo los Estados Unidos, por ser la mayor potencia del orbe, sería capaz de mantener el equilibrio mundial.

Por su parte los demócratas creen que las tropas deben volver de manera inmediata a los Estados Unidos, ya que están peleando una guerra que no les corresponde, y que en vez de estar garantizando la seguridad de otras naciones, deberían estar avalando la propia.

Otro de los argumentos que aducen los demócratas es que muchos estadounidenses han muerto en el frente de guerra por una paz, que perfectamente puede garantizar Israel, nación que no necesita protección especial, al haber quedado demostrado que tienen un ejército altamente capacitado y con las herramientas necesarias para defenderse.

El senador más destacado defendiendo la postura republicana ha sido el delegado de Arizona John McCain, por los demócratas destacaron los senadores Daniel Akaka (Hawai) y Bob Corker (Tennessee) quien a pesar de ser republicano está de acuerdo con el regreso de las tropas.
El comité continuará discutiendo la reducción del tiempo que los soldados pasan en el frente de guerra, aunque aún no hay consenso.

OEA: Gobiernos limitan la libertad de expresión

2008-04-07T16:02:00.000-04:30

Organizaciones de Estados Americanos
Gobiernos limitan la libertad de expresión
Allison E Hantos

Determinar formalmente las diferencias que existen entre los medios de comunicación públicos y privados, fue el planteamiento que la delegación de República Dominicana hizo a la Asamblea General, para que se cree una ideología común entre todos los países, dejando los aspectos punitivos a las legislaciones internas de cada nación

Las intervenciones de las delegaciones de Perú y México han contribuido a enriquecer las discusiones, buscando que se incluya una cláusula que obligue a los estados miembros para que respeten tanto los derechos de los periodistas a informar, como del pueblo a recibir la información correcta sin modificaciones.

Sin embargo las delegaciones de Venezuela y Ecuador, garantizando la plena libertad de sus ciudadanos, manifestaron que sus gobiernos han decidido filtrar la información que transmiten los medios de comunicación para prevenir mayores problemas en el país. Asimismo, Venezuela expresó su derecho a regular a los medios “de la oligarquía venezolana, que han apoyado golpes de estado” y dejó constancia de su inconformidad con la manera en que se ha hablado del caso de RCTV, por ser un tema que, según esta delegación, los demás países desconocen.

La OEA continuará sesionando sobre las implicaciones que trae a los pueblos que los diferentes gobiernos de la región estén restringiendo un derecho fundamental como lo es la libertad de expresión.

Conflicto árabe-israelí: Guerra Árabe Israelí

2008-04-07T16:01:00.000-04:30

Adriana Sciocia
El Comité de Seguridad Nacional Norteamericano continuó las deliberaciones relacionadas con el conflicto en el Oriente Medio entre Israel y Egipto. Las discusiones se han centrado en el apoyo que pudiesen dar hipotéticamente a ambas naciones, procurando mantener una buena imagen con dos de sus aliados más importantes de la región.

Entre las acciones a ejecutar, el gobierno de los Estados Unidos ha decidido disminuir los precios de los alimentos que se exportan hacia Egipto, dadas las condiciones de pobreza de la inmensa mayoría de la población egipcia, permitiendo a su gobierno incrementar los ahorros que coadyuven a la reducción de la pobreza.

Sin embargo fuentes de inteligencia que prefirieron mantener el anonimato, han confirmado que Egipto está usando la reducción de aranceles de exportación de alimentos para desviar recursos para la adquisición de armas a ser usadas en este conflicto.
La administración del presidente Jimmy Carter continuará evaluando los acontecimientos para decidir las acciones a ejecutar a futuro.

Árabes se preparan

El Alto Mando Árabe está planeando atacar a Israel en horas de la madrugada, para evitar ser sorprendidos con un supuesto movimiento armado, que fuentes de inteligencia han determinado sería en horas de la madrugada.

Sus estimaciones plantean que hay altas probabilidades de ganar debido a que Israel no tiene suficientes tropas, por lo que estiman conveniente aprovechar el factor sorpresa para atacar por aire y por tierra, y eliminar las tropas israelíes que pudiesen oponerse al ataque.

CaMUNews: Comité para la Ciencia y el Desarrollo Tecnológico

2008-04-07T14:22:00.002-04:30

Curiosamente, la biotecnología no es aceptada, en lo que a aplicación y derivaciones se refiere, por varias delegaciones dentro del comité. Muchos consideran que afecta asuntos como la religión, política y otros particulares y decisivos. Sin embargo, los delegados han mostrado su potencial en buscar soluciones al tema. En estos momentos se está discutiendo las formas y/o maneras de implementar la biotecnología en la agricultura de una forma eficaz y que todos los países salgan beneficiados.
Realizado por: Rossana Mattout

Reporte de la Comisión Económica de África

2008-04-07T14:15:00.003-04:30

CaMUNews 2008: Reporte sobre la Comisión Económica de África

El debate gira en torno al grave problema por el que esta pasando el continente africano, donde factores como la insalubridad, la poca eficacia de los bienes y servicios; además de la profunda crisis económica en que se encuentra toda la región. Como la educación no es suficiente, los ciudadanos africanos no conocen las consecuencias que puede traer una relación sexual sin protección. De igual manera, no hay empresas que subsidien los costos de los tratamientos, por lo tanto, la enfermedad sigue generación tras generación (por ejemplo, la falta de control de natalidad, la no planificación familiar es un factor de riesgo que permite la expansión del virus)

Para solucionar este problema, se propuso la entrega de métodos anticonceptivos. También se propuso realizar una rama especializada en la ONU SIDA quen tenga como misión ÁFRICA. Varios delegados plantearon la necesidad de solicitar asistencia a organismos multilaterales y países desarrollados.

Educar a los ciudadanos en todos los sentidos es la mejor manera de prevenir el VIH-SIDA. Si no hay un cambio en lo que a educación se refiere, mejorando los métodos, técnicas y procedimientos, los resultados no serán los esperados.

Vivianne Benzaquen

IMPORTANTE - VARIOS CaMUN 2008

2008-04-03T08:45:00.002-04:30

Estimados profesores, asesores y delegados: Reciban un cordial saludo. A una semana del modelo, les recordamos ciertos asuntos de interés para todos, que nos ayudarán a que la conferencia, en cada uno de los comités y en general, se realicen y coordinen como deseamos. Desde el comité organizador de más está decirles que estamos a la orden para cualquier asunto de interés que consideren pertinente, aclarar dudas y ofrecerles la ayuda que requieran.

1.- Recuerden que el punto de encuentro es el Boleíta Center. A partir de las 09:15-09:20 de la mañana estarán los autobuses del Liceo Moral y Luces "Herzl-Bialik" recogiendo a los delegados. Dos profesores del Departamento de Ciencias Sociales y Dos personas del Dpto. de Seguridad del CSCD Hebraica estarán revisando listados. Recuerden que deben tener la cédula de identidad y el carnet estudiantil. Aparecer en el listado es FUNDAMENTAL.

2.- Uso de computadores portátiles: El uso o no de portátiles ha generado, dentro del mismo comité organizador CaMUN 2008, diferencias. Los comités históricos consideran que solamente deben usarse por parte de la mesa; mientras que en los comités regionales o dependientes de la AG consideran que si, pero que el delegado debe hacer uso de los archivos que le ayuden en su trabajo para un mejor desempeño dentro del comité, y no aplicar programas como juegos, o el uso de internet con fines diferentes al didáctico; por ejemplo, conectarse a "facebook" o al "messenger" Aquellos delegados que lleven su portátil al modelo, son responsables en todo momento por la misma y el uso de la misma debe ser, estrictamente, académico. Allí si requerimos del apoyo de los profesores y asesores para que el delegado cumpla con la normativa y que el uso del portátil no sea un factor de distracción, entretenimiento y que perjudique su trabajo y el de los demás delegados.

3.- Ceremonia de Apertura: Recordamos, nuevamente, el domingo a las 11:00 a.m. en la Sala de Usos Múltiples del Liceo Moral y Luces. El Orador de Orden para la séptima edición del modelo será el Excmp. Sr. Embajador Dr. Adolfo Taylhardat.

4.- Almuerzos: Recordamos que los almuerzos son en el CSCD Hebraica y en las cantinas del Liceo. Los liceos y colegios exonerados, reciben el domingo 06 de abril, el ticket de almuerzo (que incluye bebida) de los tres días del modelo. Son canjeables, solamente, en las cantinas de lácteo y/o carnes del Liceo. El menú es variado y para todos los gustos. Quienes almuerzan en Hebraica, recomendamos a los profesores y/o asesores que vayan previamente a los concesionarios y pidan el almuerzo con antelación. De esta manera, cuando llegan los delegados, ya pueden servirse y aprovechar el tiempo. Este año, el Café Eva, ubicado en el área de la piscina, ofrecerá el servicio de "self-service" y es mucho más rápido para quienes deseen comer allí. Revisen los horarios del modelo en lo que a almuerzos se refiere y recomendamos tomar las previsiones necesarias.

DURANTE LOS ALMUERZOS NO SE PUEDE FUMAR. ES IMPORTANTE CONTAR CON EL APOYO DE LOS PROFESORES Y ASESORES, ESPECIALMENTE SI FUMAN, AGRADECEMOS NO HACERLO CON LOS ESTUDIANTES Y EVITAR QUE ELLO OCURRA. EL SIMPLE HECHO DE FUMAR, DURANTE CAMUN, DENTRO Y FUERA DEL LICEO, GENERA LA CONSECUENCIA DE LA SANCIÓN DEL DELEGADO. RECUERDEN, IGUALMENTE, PROFESORES QUE ESTAMOS EN UN LICEO, UN COLEGIO Y NO SE PUEDE FUMAR, INGERIR BEBIDAS ALCOHOLICAS Y TENER UN COMPORTAMIENTO NO ACORDE CON LO QUE UN MODELO DE LAS NACIONES UNIDAS REQUIERE.

5.- Comités de Crisis: Varias preguntas han surgido en lo que a los comités de crisis se refieren. El delegado que participa en dichos comités no debe realizar una posición oficial bajo el formato que lo hacen los delegados que participan en los comités regionales, especiales o que pertenecen a la AG. Debe presentar un escrito sobre la posición de su personaje en lo que al asunto o asuntos a discutir se refiere. Es lo que denominan en inglés "statement"

¿Cómo se moderará en esos comités? En general, bajo la modalidad del caucus moderado, procurando tener un debate ágil y en donde todos los delegados intervengan. Eso buscarán los presidentes de dichos comités, que todos intervengan y planteen soluciones antes las emergencias que el crisis staff genere en los mismos. Inclusive, en el Consejo de Seguridad del Futuro, se moderará de esa forma. Aquellos colegios que no hayan recibido la presentación del CS Futuro, informarlo por este medio.

6.- Cupos Adicionales: Tenemos cupos en el Soviet Politburo y U.S. National SC (1979); además, cupos disponibles en el comité SENATE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES. En español, cupos disponibles en el Consejo de Europa, Comisión Económica para África y Cumbre de países asiáticos y oriente medio.

7.- Ubicación de los comités - Domingo, 06 de abril 2008: Ese día, cuando suban a los autobuses, desde el Boleíta hacia Hebraica, cada delegado y profesor recibirá un plano con la ubicación de los comités de trabajo del modelo CaMUN 2008. Los delegados que participan en el Comité de Derechos Humanos estarán ubicados en el Colegio, en la Sala de Usos Múltiples. Dicho edificio está "al frente" del edificio del Liceo. Personal de protocolo les acompañará, el domingo 06, para la ubicación en ese comité así como en el resto de los pisos del Liceo. La primera sesión comienza a la 01:30 p.m.

8.- Posiciones Oficiales: El domingo, 06 de abril de 2008, durante la primera sesión de trabajo, los delegados deben entregar ante la Presidencia de su comité la posición oficial de su delegación ante los tópicos agendados. Igualmente, de acuerdo al punto número 05, los delegados que participan en los comités de crisis. Quienes, por diversos motivos no la entreguen ese día tendrán una amonestación momentánea, la cual será retirada el lunes, 07 de abril de 2008, cuando entreguen la misma ante su mesa. Evitemos este tipo de "amonestaciones" y esperamos tenerlas todas ese domingo.

9.- Salón de Arte Hebraica: El domingo, 06 de abril de 2008, se inaugurará en Hebraica (Salón Jerusalem) la edición 2008 del Salón de Arte. Están cordialmente invitados los profesores y asesores a la misma. La inauguración es al mediodía, recomendando asistir a la misma en horas de la tarde. > > 10.- Reunión de profesores: Domingo, 06 de abril de 2008 a las 05:00 p.m. El lugar será avisado en su momento.

11.- La vestimenta durante el modelo es formal. Evitemos el uso de prendas inadecuadas en nuestros delegados que generen amonestaciones por parte del comité organizador. El uso de vestimentas típicas se permite dentro del Liceo y Colegio, no en el CSCD Hebraica.

12.- Presentaciones, vídeos, etc. Aquellos delegados que deseen presentar un vídeo, un archivo ante sus delegados, el mismo debe ser revisado, previamente, por el Secretario General. Al ser aprobados, la mesa abrirá el espacio para su proyección. Recordamos que dichas presentaciones deben relacionarse con los tópicos agendados del comité donde participe el delegado.

Estamos a la orden ante cualquier duda o requerimiento que tengan a bien formularnos.

Comité Organizador CaMUN 2008

Letter from the USA National SC 1979 Chair: Ilana Gunczler

2008-04-03T08:39:00.001-04:30

I want to give you a warm welcome to this year Caracas Model of the United Nations Joint Crisis Committee 1979 U.S. National Security Council. Being a few days from the model, I expect from each and everyone of you to have already researched and investigated about your historical character. Nevertheless I encourage you to search for more information so that you can have a clear view of the position that your character has inside this committee.

As your chair, I would like to give you some guidelines of how the committee will develop and what is your role in it. Since this is a crisis committee the dynamic of it will be very different from the regular UN committees, therefore there are no formal rules. However you must at all times be respectful towards your fellow delegates, while keeping the debate.

The main topic that we’ll discuss during CAMUN 2008, it’s going to be the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and its repercussions in the world. Also internal and foreign affairs topics will be treated, as well as political, economical and military. Additionally you need to take into account the worldwide situation during this period. The committees’ debate will be developed in the period embraced from December 27th, 1979 with the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan to November 4th, 1980 the date of the American elections.

Since in this committee you are a character instead of a delegation, it is important that you react the way that your historical character would, even if the decisions taken by the committee and the consequences of them, are different from the ones in the past. This will make the debate more interesting due to the fact that each delegate will have a defined position which not only doesn’t have to be the same but that will bring to the table many points of view.

You also need to take into account that each action that this committee passes will have consequences from the crisis staff and our joint crisis committee the 1979 Soviet Politburo. These actions will be passed through action papers which will have to be voted previously.
You will also be requiring, once in the committee, a short statement or an opening address in which you will have to express your character’s point of view of the situation.

Looking forward to it,
Good Luck!
And be prepared for the unexpected…

Ilana Gunczler
President Jimmy Carter
US National Security Council 1979

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES

2008-04-01T07:00:00.000-04:30

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES

Dear delegates,

First and foremost, we, the chairs of the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services would like to wish all of you the biggest of success on this year’s annual Caracas Model United Nation 2008.
Nonetheless, in view of the special categorization the committee has received, we have decided to award it with special rules of procedure applicable only to this committee.
The committee having four topics needing to be resolved, and it also having a first-person speaking modality make different rules necessary for the debate to reach the maximum level of effectiveness and dynamic.

The debate modality will be of a permanent moderate caucus, where the chair will give the word to those who wish to speak. Speaking will happen in a first person method, referring to other senate committee members as “Honorable” instead of the normal “Delegate”.

Senate Committee members will be able to address the committee with a comment or short speech at any time as long as the chair acknowledges his permission to speak.

The chair will open the floor occasionally in case any committee member wishes to introduce a motion, such as the Introduction of a Working Paper or a Project of Law (What is generally a resolution, except in the senate, members work on creating new laws). These motions will be subject to vote; simple majority for a Working Paper and 2/3 majority for a Project of Law.
Points of Personal Privilege and Parliamentary Doubt can be addressed at any moment during the debate. First person expressions such as “I”, and “My opinion” will be allowed.

The only time the committee will not be in moderate caucus is in Topic Opening and/or passing a Project of Law. For topic opening will be discussed among the entire committee, then the floor will be opened, and we will proceed to one speaker for, one against and finalize the procedure with voting.

Remember delegates, participation is of the most importance so we expect you all to give your best and have a great time.

Thank you,
Sincerely,

Maximillian Sultan, President
Alicia Bittan, Vice-President

Rumbo a CaMUN 2008

2008-03-28T20:15:00.000-04:30

Del 06 al 08 de abril, se realizará la séptima edición del Caracas Model United Nations, modelo de las Naciones Unidas que reunirá a setencientos estudiantes y profesores procedentes de diversos colegios y liceos.

Ir construyendo puentes de justicia y paz a través de las Naciones ha sido y es la razón de ser del modelo CaMUN. Durante los últimos siete años, inspirados en los ideales de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas, jóvenes y profesores han construido una hermosa realidad basada en el respeto, la tolerancia, el trabajo en equipo, el liderazgo compartido y la toma de decisiones con el interés de vincularse y sentirse responsables por la compleja realidad nacional e internacional.

Este año, organizados en veintidós comités de trabajo, el modelo CaMUN se ha inspirado en dos grandes temas de interés, vigencia y actualidad dentro del conocimiento: La conmemoración de los sesenta años de la Creación del Estado de Israel y el Calentamiento Global. Además de los temas señalados, los estudiantes, que asumirán la delegación de un país u organismo acreditado ante las Naciones Unidas, analizarán y reflexionarán sobre temas vinculados a Economía, Desarme y Seguridad Internacional, Oriente Medio, la situación en Kosovo, en Sudán, la colocación de minas antipersonales, el manejo de los recursos naturales, fuentes alternativas de energía, entre otros.

El trabajo de los comités que pertenecen a la Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas, así como a los denominados "comités especiales" de dicho organismo se ve enriquecido en CaMUN con los "comités de crisis" Este año, además de aumentar el número de los mismos, estamos aumento, igualmente, la calidad en los temas y discusiones que esperamos dentro del modelo. Temas como la Guerra de los Seis Días (1967) la situación en Afganistán (1979) la realidad que vivía la ciudad de Nueva York, bajo los grupos de "mafiosos" en 1931 y la crítica situación vivida en 1996 por Taiwán, serán trabajados por los participantes y el comité responsable de darle "vida" a estos procesos determinantes en la historia universal. De igual manera, y vinculados con la historia de Venezuela, la crisis de la Corbeta "Caldas" que generó un episodio diplomático "particular" entre Venezuela y Colombia, será analizada en correspondencia directa con el año del conflicto.

Esperamos contar con vuestra presencia, como comunidad de padres, representantes, directivos, profesores, personal administrativo, obrero y estudiantes.

CaMUN es una hermosa realidad que expresa el trabajo que el Sistema Educativo Comunitario hace posible en pro del crecimiento intelectual y humano de sus estudiantes, del intercambio cultural con otras instituciones educativas y del aporte, importante y valioso, que se realiza por el futuro de esta hermosa Tierra de Gracia llamada Venezuela.

CaMUN 2008: Del 06 al 08 de Abril

2007-09-28T23:19:00.000-04:00

Construyendo Puentes de Justicia y Paz a través de las Naciones

Del 06 al 08 de Abril se realizará en la sede del Liceo "Moral y Luces Herzl-Bialik" la séptima edición del Caracas Model United Nations (CaMUN) donde esperamos reunir a más de quinientos estudiantes procedentes de una treintena de liceos y colegios de la ciudad de Caracas.

En su nueva edición, el modelo se expande en un mayor número de comités en inglés y español. El comité CaMUN 2008, actualmente trabajando por ustedes (profesores y estudiantes) protagonistas de esta maravillosa experiencia que son los modelos de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas, ha decidido dar mayor peso e importancia a los denominados "comités de crisis" los cuales permiten un mejor desempeño de los estudiantes, un aprendizaje más efectivo y el conocimiento de determinada realidad que exige gerencia compartida, trabajo en equipo, solución de conflictos y el poner en práctica, como una enseñanza por y para la vida, de valores como la tolerancia, respeto, justicia, libertad, aceptación y comunicación.

En los próximos días informaremos sobre los comités y tópicos del modelo CaMUN 2008.

ESPERAMOS CONTAR CON VUESTRA PRESENCIA! BIENVENIDOS A CaMUN 2008

CaMUNews - Anti-domestic violence campaign in Venezuela targets men

2007-09-28T23:14:00.002-04:00

A new anti-domestic violence advertising campaign in Venezuela is directed at male aggressors. The campaign, which encourages men to reflect on violence against women, is supported by the state Institute for Women, United Nations agencies in Venezuela, NGOs and a Venezuelan bank.

Breaking News: Situation in Myanmar - Part I

2007-09-28T23:14:00.001-04:00

The United Nations' Human Rights Council said Friday it will hold a special emergency session to discuss the violent crackdown on protesters in Myanmar. The meeting, which is scheduled for Tuesday in Geneva, comes as Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has dispatched a special envoy to the troubled Southeast Asian

Breaking News: Situation in Myanmar

2007-09-28T23:13:00.000-04:00

Myanmar's neighbors stay cautious: While Europe and the U.S. have clearly condemned Myanmar's military junta's violence against protesters and its history of human rights abuse, the country's Asian neighbors have taken a much more careful approach. The unwillingness of such countries as China and Thailand to speak up for Myanmar's people against their repressive rulers reflects the neighbors' own self-interests, The Washington Post reports. The Washington Post

Special Report CaMUNews: Britain struggles to clarify stance on Security Council reform

2007-09-28T23:12:00.000-04:00

Britain has been on the defensive this week since its foreign secretary, David Miliband, identified Brazil, India, Japan and South Africa as four "very clear" candidates for permanent membership on a potentially enlarged Security Council. Germany, Egypt and Nigeria were reportedly upset, as his comments during an interview Tuesday strayed from the U.K.'s earlier policy of backing Germany and not identifying a specific African country that ought to represent that continent. Miliband backtracked during his speech to the UN General Assembly Wednesday, embracing Britain's original position. The Independent (London)

CaMUNews - UN envoy to visit Myanmar to urge calm

2007-09-28T23:11:00.002-04:00

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Wednesday said he is sending his special envoy on Myanmar to the Southeast Asian country to urge the military regime there to exercise restraint, a move that comes as police have started to violently crack down on monks and other protesters. Ban's office urged the regime to refrain from harming peaceful demonstrators and to cooperate with the envoy, Ibrahim Gambari. Meanwhile, China blocked efforts in the UN Security Council to condemn the military junta's crackdown on the protests. CNN (9/27) , The Washington Times (9/27) , The New York Times (9/27)

CaMUNews - For this soccer star, malaria campaign is worthy goal

2007-09-28T23:11:00.001-04:00

As the national spokesman for Nothing But Nets, Chicago Fire's midfielder Diego Gutierrez is spreading the word that for a contribution of only $10, the United Nations Foundation-backed charity can buy and distribute a life-saving mosquito net in Africa. "Ideally, five or 10 years from now, I will be on to another charity and we won't be talking about malaria because I envision that it won't be a problem by then," the soccer veteran said. ESPN.com

CaMUNews - Senegal's president: A prosperous time ahead for Africa?

2007-09-28T23:10:00.000-04:00

This is a promising time for Africa, with both development and civil rights improving sharply in many countries, Senegal's president writes in The Boston Globe. African-Americans, many of whom feel a special connection to the continent of their ancestors, now "have unprecedented opportunities to buy African products and services, visit the national treasures, cities, beaches, and mountains of their lands of origin, cultivate foreign investment agencies, and tap Africa's boundless potential to produce green energy and abundant food supplies," Abdoulaye Wade writes.

CaMUNews - Commentary: As populations grow, so do problems

2007-09-28T23:09:00.002-04:00

While several industrialized countries are worried about their stalled population growth, a much larger problem globally is the soaring number of people in developing countries, this commentary in the Los Angeles Times argues. The world needs "bold international formulas" for addressing the growing problem of migration, which is at least partly a direct result of soaring populations in poor countries, says Barbara Crossette, former chief of The New York Times' UN bureau. Los Angeles Times

CaMUNews - Boat schools ensure education in wet Bangladesh

2007-09-28T23:09:00.001-04:00

Increasingly flood-prone Bangladesh has started offering more students education on boats. "For Bangladesh, boats are the future," said architect Abul Hasanat Mohammed Rezwan, reflecting the scientific consensus that the Himalayas' melting glaciers are expected to flood no less than one-fifth of the country in the next couple of decades. The Washington Post (9/27)

CaMUNews - World Bank concerned poor countries may face new tariffs

2007-09-28T23:08:00.002-04:00

Europe should extend a deadline that at the end of the year threatens to hike tariffs on goods imported from countries in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific, World Bank officials have urged. Europe has warned that the countries must agree to free-trade agreements by Dec. 31 or face significantly higher tariffs on their exports. Inter Press Service News Agency (9/27)

CaMUNews - Bush meeting on climate to focus on voluntary efforts

2007-09-28T23:08:00.001-04:00

The special two-day meeting on climate change that began Thursday in Washington, hosted by U.S. President George W. Bush, will focus on promoting various ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions without imposing mandates. China, India and several other major polluters are participating in the summit. Environmental News Network/Associated Press

CaMUNews - Iran Strengthens Ties With South America

2007-09-28T23:05:00.000-04:00

Iran Strengthens Ties With South America
By IAN JAMES, Associated Press Writer 1:06 AM PDT, September 28, 2007

CARACAS, Venezuela -- The leaders of Iran and Venezuela cemented an alliance aimed at countering the United States while the Iranian president reached out to a new ally in Bolivia and declared that together, "no one can defeat us." After being vilified during his U.N. visit this week, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad traveled on to friendlier territory Thursday, first stopping in Bolivia -- where he pledged $1 billion in investment -- and then visiting Venezuela to meet President Hugo Chavez. "Together we are surely growing stronger, and in truth no one can defeat us," the Iranian leader said through an interpreter. Apparently referring to the U.S., he said, "Imperialism has no other option: Respect the peoples (of the world) or accept defeat." Chavez greeted the Iranian leader warmly on a red carpet in front of the presidential palace, where they both stood before microphones and let loose with rhetoric challenging Washington. "We will continue resisting to the end in the face of imperialism," Ahmadinejad said. "And the age of imperialism has ended."

Chavez embraced the Iranian leader, calling him "one of the greatest anti-imperialist fighters" and "one of the great fighters for true peace." In his defiant speech to the U.N. General Assembly this week, Ahmadinejad rebuked "arrogant powers" seeking to curb Iran's nuclear program. Chavez also strongly defends Iran's nuclear research, insisting it is for peaceful energy uses despite U.S. charges it is aimed at making nuclear weapons. The Venezuelan leader also says his country plans to eventually develop a nuclear energy program. Chavez said he was proud of Ahmadinejad's courage while under hostile questioning at New York's Columbia University. "An imperial spokesman tried to disrespect you, calling you a cruel little tyrant. You responded with the greatness of a revolutionary."

In Bolivia, the Iranian leader pledged investment over the next five years to help the poor Andean nation tap its vast natural gas reserves, extract minerals, generate more electricity and fund agricultural and construction projects. Bolivian President Evo Morales, who joins Chavez as one of Iran's key allies, called Ahmadinejad's visit historic as the two nations established diplomatic relations for the first time. Morales brushed off concerns about close ties to a country that the Bush administration says is a sponsor of terrorism, declaring that the "international community can rest assured that Bolivia's foreign policy is dedicated to peace with equality and social justice." Ahmadinejad's trip underscored his growing ties to Latin American nations, including Nicaragua and Ecuador, even as the U.S. tries to isolate him internationally. The closer relationship is viewed with alarm by the opposition in Venezuela and Bolivia, and by Washington. U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, a Florida Republican, said they remind him "of the relationship that Fidel Castro had with Russia." He urged Washington to reach out more to a region analysts say it has largely ignored since the Sept. 11 attacks. Toward that aim, a bipartisan bill is being introduced in Congress on Friday that would establish a 10-year, $2.5 billion program aimed at reducing poverty and expanding the middle class in Latin America. It would require recipient countries to contribute and encourage matching funds from businesses and non-governmental organizations. The program would bring more stability in the long run and help the United States "re-establish leadership in the hemisphere" by increasing development assistance by more than a third, said bill co-sponsor Sen. Bob Menendez, a New Jersey Democrat.

Chavez's government, for its part, has promised more than $8.8 billion in aid, financing and energy funding to the region this year. Relations between Iran and Venezuela, meanwhile, have grown very close. Since 2001, they have signed trade agreements worth more than $20 billion in potential investment, according to Iran's official news agency, IRNA. They have teamed up to begin producing cars, tractors and plastic goods, and signed an agreement to help Venezuela build public housing. Iran Air began flights between Tehran and Caracas, with a stopover in Syria, earlier this year. Venezuelan Jewish leaders objected to the presence of Ahmadinejad, who has called for the end of Israel and questioned the history of the Holocaust. "We raise our voice to condemn these statements by the Iranian leader which incite hatred, becoming a threat to world peace," the Venezuelan Confederation of Israeli Associations said in a statement.

The country is home to a large Jewish population, including Holocaust survivors. It was Ahmadinejad's third visit to Caracas. Along with Nicaragua and Bolivia, Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa also wants closer ties with Tehran, and Iran's PressTV reported last month that Iran will for the first time open an embassy in Quito. * __ Associated Press writer Alan Clendenning contributed to this report from La Paz, Bolivia.

CaMUNews - WFP's food aid to get French protection against Somali pirates

2007-09-28T23:04:00.001-04:00

WFP's food aid to get French protection against Somali pirates: The World Food Programme, whose food aid to destitute Somalia has been interrupted several times by pirates off the Horn of Africa country's coast, has accepted an offer from France for security protection for its ships. "We are grateful to the government of France for this generous offer, which would reduce the threat of piracy and allow WFP to feed more hungry people in Somalia," WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran said

CaMUNews - Cote d'Ivoire on road to peace, president tells UN

2007-09-28T23:03:00.000-04:00

The United Nations should ease a weapons embargo against Cote d'Ivoire, its president urged in his speech Wednesday to the UN General Assembly. Laurent Gbagbo, who said the West African country in recent months has been "taking great steps along the road to peace," also argued that the UN should end sanctions against three political leaders who have been accused of stalling the peace process.

CaMUNews - Poor countries: UN should guide global warming talks

2007-09-28T23:01:00.000-04:00

The best way for the international community to tackle global warming is to work within the United Nations system to find a replacement for the Kyoto Treaty, which expires in 2012, developing countries said Wednesday. Representatives of developing countries also said that even more urgent than tackling global warming is providing such basic necessities as food and shelter to the poor world. International Herald Tribune/Associated Press

CaMUNews - Iran's leader tells UN nuclear matter is closed

2007-09-28T22:58:00.001-04:00

In a fiery speech before the United Nations General Assembly Tuesday, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad argued that the matter of his country's nuclear program is "now closed" due to a deal reached last month with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Ahmadinejad said the UN nuclear watchdog has adopted the "correct approach," unlike the Security Council, which he said has been "influenced by some bullying powers and failed to uphold justice and protect the rights of the Iranian people." But a U.S. State Department official said it is "safe to say he is the only one who thinks the file on Iran's nuclear weapons program is closed."

CaMUNews - Security Council approves Chad, CAR force

2007-09-28T22:57:00.000-04:00

The United Nations Security Council voted unanimously Tuesday to send a peacekeeping force into Chad and the Central African Republic to protect civilians from violence spilling over from Darfur. More than 400,000 Darfur refugees and displaced Chadians are estimated to be living in camps in Chad, with another 280,000 in the Central African Republic.

CaMUNews - New congressional envoy to UN starts busy job

2007-09-28T22:56:00.002-04:00

As world leaders gathered at the United Nations headquarters this week, a U.S. congressman found himself very busy as he started his assignment as the Democrats' representative to the world body. Rep. William Delahunt, D-Mass. -- who will convey his party's foreign policy priorities to UN members, and vice versa -- began his first day by meeting with UN Foundation President Timothy Wirth, and later got advice from a group of former diplomats. Cape Cod Times (Mass.) (9/25)

CaMUNews - UN agencies urge countries to ramp up AIDS funding

2007-09-28T22:56:00.001-04:00

UNICEF and UNAIDS on Tuesday emphasized the need for governments around the world to create more HIV/AIDS prevention programs and provide adequate medicines to HIV-positive children. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria estimated that between $12 billion and $18 billion will be needed for the next three years to battle the diseases.

CaMUNews - Multinationals help drive corruption

2007-09-28T22:55:00.000-04:00

Multinational companies and financial institutions that employ bribery and accept the use of illicit funds are helping fuel corruption in poor countries, which drains resources needed for education, health and infrastructure, Transparency International said Wednesday as it released its annual Corruptions Perceptions Index. "The bribe money that buys a champagne lifestyle for corrupt officials in the poorest countries often originates in multinational companies based in the world's richest countries," the group's chairwoman, Huguette Labelle, said.

CaMUNews - In South Africa, reaching out to AIDS orphans

2007-09-28T22:54:00.000-04:00

Some 2 million South Africans have died from AIDS, leaving behind more orphans than any other country in the world. In this first part in an occasional series of articles, The Christian Science Monitor follows two families who have taken in AIDS orphans. The Christian Science Monitor (9/26)

CaMUNews - After the hurricane, Nicaraguan coast reeling

2007-09-28T22:53:00.002-04:00

The Mosquito Coast, hammered by Hurricane Felix three weeks ago, now suffers from growing hunger and disease as residents struggle amid the destruction. Up to 160,000 Nicaraguans may face a pending humanitarian disaster, officials warn. The Guardian (London) (9/26)

CaMUNews - Europe, U.S. eye Iran sanctions outside UN

2007-09-28T22:53:00.001-04:00

As support within the United Nations may be weakening for more sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program, the U.S. and Europe may work together to pressure the regime outside the world body's system, The Wall Street Journal reports. France, especially, seems willing to impose its own sanctions against Iran, with President Nicolas Sarkozy starting to ask French companies to refrain from doing business with Iran. The Wall Street Journal

CaMUNews - Rights groups: Iran does not ignore gays, it abuses them

2007-09-28T22:52:00.000-04:00

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad garnered headlines and not a little scorn Monday when he claimed in a speech that Iran has no homosexuals, but human rights groups say the regime in Tehran does worse than ignoring gays: it systematically persecutes them. Harassment and torture of homosexuals in Iran is routine, groups say, and up to 400 people are believed to have been executed because of their sexual orientation. FOXNews.com (9/25)

CaMUNews - Toxic statues pollute India waterways

2007-09-28T22:51:00.000-04:00

Water pollution threats in India are rising as increasing numbers of Hindu God statues containing toxic chemicals are immersed in the country's waterways as part of religious festivals. Environmentalists worry that the increased commercialization of festivals also leads to more statues containing cement, plastic and toxic dyes, and a shifting away from traditional statues made of mud, clay and other eco-friendly materials. Environmental News Network/Reuters (9/25)

CaMUNews - China faces environmental woes over hydropower project

2007-09-28T22:50:00.000-04:00

National officials and environmental experts warn that China's huge Three Gorges Dam hydropower project is creating environmental damage and could cause a massive catastrophe if steps are not taken to address the problems. Erosion, landslides, damaged local ecosystems and conflict over land shortages are just some of the issues facing the $25 billion project. AlertNet.org/Reuters (9/26)

CaMUNews - Rice: World needs energy revolution

2007-09-28T22:44:00.000-04:00

U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice called on the world to work together to embrace an energy revolution to shift away from the use of coal, oil and gas. "How we forge this integrated response has major consequences, not only for our future, but also for our present and especially for the millions of men, women and children in the developing world whose efforts to escape poverty require broad and sustained economic growth and the energy to fuel it," Rice said. Environmental News Network/Reuters (9/25)

Special Report: UN: Israel has added dozens of new roadblocks in West Bank

2007-09-24T10:15:00.000-04:00

Last update - 09:33 21/09/2007

UN: Israel has added dozens of new roadblocks in West Bank
By Avi Issacharoff, Haaretz Correspondent

Despite repeated promises to reduce the number of roadblocks in the West Bank, Israel has in fact added dozens of new ones, according to the United Nations. Defense Minister Ehud Barak promised U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice this week to remove 24 roadblocks and consider additional alleviations of movement restrictions on the Palestinians. This followed a similar promise to alleviate movement restrictions that Prime Minister Ehud Olmert made to Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas. However, the number of roadblocks has now reached 572, an increase of 52 percent compared to 376 in August 2005, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). In the past two months alone, Israel put up 40 new roadblocks, OCHA said.

Israel did remove a small fence along Road 317, in the Southern Mount Hebron region, doing away with 29 barricades. But OCHA found that 48 new roadblocks, mostly embankments preventing access to various roads, were put up. Altogether, there are 476 unmanned roadblocks in the West Bank, consisting of concrete cubes, earthen embankments and other barricades blocking roads and exits from villages and towns. The number of manned roadblocks has also increased, from 86 in July to 96 today, the UN found.

Most of them are manned by soldiers round the clock, but some are manned only a few hours a day. Since April, the defense establishment has refused to provide data about the number of roadblocks. In the past, defense officials said that many of the roadblocks were added to protect settlers, and not only to prevent terror attacks in Israel. The UN figures do not include checkpoints set up along the Green Line

Special Report: How much can U.N. achieve in Iraq?

2007-09-24T10:12:00.000-04:00

UNITED NATIONS, N.Y. - The United States wants the United Nations playing a larger role in Iraq. And the UN – with a new mandate in hand that calls for bulking up its presence on the ground and tackling a wider range of political and social issues – seems willing to try.

But even as UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon co-chairs a high-level meeting here Saturday with embattled Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, experts are cautious about how much the UN can do. Even UN officials are saying that the kind of progress now crucial – moves toward political compromise and national reconciliation – largely depends on the Iraqis themselves.

"The last thing I'm going to do is pretend we have some magic formula to make this work," says Lynn Pascoe, the UN's undersecretary-general for political affairs. The UN has the expertise to help in Iraq if the conditions are right, he says, sending what might be seen as a premeeting signal: "We're going to work at it if we're invited."

Yet Mr. Pascoe warns against expectations of a fix-it-fast UN role, saying, "In terms of the relations between a Shiite majority government and the minority Sunni population, it's going to be a process taking a good long while. It's not like we're going to jump in and solve what the Americans couldn't get done in the last several years."

The US, which hasn't always been enthusiastic about a greater UN role in Iraq, has significantly rewritten its tune. That message was clear in President Bush's address on Iraq last week, and it is echoed by officials here. "We're asking the UN to step up and do quite a few different things focused in three areas," says Richard Grenell, spokesman for the US mission to the UN in New York. "A greater political role with the neighbors … an increase in numbers [of UN personnel in Iraq] from about 50 to about 90 … and to promote an internal dialogue among the political factions."

Saturday's meeting is focused on the International Compact With Iraq, a document signed at an international forum on Iraq in Egypt in May. The ICI calls for increased international involvement and financial assistance, largely by Iraq's neighbors, in exchange for Iraqi action on political and economic challenges. Those challenges include some of the same "benchmarks" the US has called on the Iraqi government to meet, such as how revenues from Iraq's oil wealth will be shared.

Indeed, on Saturday, eyes will be focused not just on Mr. Maliki, who is mistrusted by many of Iraq's Sunni neighbors, but on the entourage he brings with him to New York. Having just suffered an image beating as an ineffectual and sectarian leader in Washington's review of Iraq policy, Maliki will be watched for signs that he understands the need for national reconciliation – and that he has the support of other political factions to work toward it.

In addition to the compact with Iraq, the UN also has a new "mandate" for action in Iraq approved by the Security Council in August. The mandate, vigorously sought by the Bush administration, calls for the UN to increase its number of officials and specialists on the ground, and to expand its work program to new areas including the promotion of national dialogue and economic reforms.

Yet the big question hanging over plans for an expanded physical presence of the UN is security. After the UN compound in Baghdad was blown up by a truck bomb in August 2003, killing 22 people including mission director Sergio Vieira de Mello, the safety issue has some UN officials sounding very cautious about the expanded mandate.

"Who's going to provide the security for additional people we'd send in?" asks one UN official with close knowledge of the Security Council's action on Iraq, speaking on condition of anonymity. "It's a dicey problem that could end up limiting how much more we can do."

The official notes, for example, that one level of security that the UN's small delegation has now on the ground is provided by Georgian troops. But Georgia has said it will reduce the 2,000 troops it has in Iraq to about 300 by next summer. "We don't see the number of multinational forces who can provide security for a larger UN presence increasing," says the official.

Even if the security issue is addressed, some experts say that what the UN really needs in Iraq is a "big name" who can raise the profile on the UN and the international community's commitment and get Iraqi leaders to focus on the compromises they have to make.

"The question is, can there be a political process to, in fact, actually start to make these trade-offs? That is where I have argued that the UN needs to be able to play this role – not a business-as-usual UN, but at a very senior, extraordinary level," says Carlos Pascual, director of foreign-policy studies at the Brookings Institution in Washington and until recently director of the State Department's Office of Reconstruction and Stabilization.

Mr. Pascual even has his preferred "shock" candidate for the job, France's new "tough guy" foreign minister, Bernard Kouchner. Noting Mr. Kouchner's previous experience in Kosovo, as a founder of the nongovernmental group Médecins Sans Frontières, and as the intellectual author of a so-called international "right to intervene," Pascual says it will take such an individual if political progress is yet possible. "That is the kind of individual who might be able to get some traction on this, " he says.

Not everyone supports the "big name" idea, however, with the US saying it is not what the Iraqis say they need most. "If there needs to be a bigger name later on who can shake the funding tree, we can do that," says Mr. Grenell of the US mission. "What the Iraqis said they wanted was less of a big name, but someone who would work and live there … coordinating and interacting [with them] on a daily basis."

Still, the US is noticeably more comfortable with the UN's new "can do" approach to Iraq. It wasn't so long ago that former Secretary-General Kofi Annan described the US war in Iraq as "illegal."

Setting a new tone, Secretary-General Ban, who took office in January, "came in with the idea that whether you liked what had transpired [in Iraq] or not, whatever you thought of how things before the invasion or after were handled, we now have a large problem on our hands," says Pascoe, the undersecretary-general. "And so what can the United Nations do to help?"

Source: http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0921/p02s02-wogi.html?page=2

CaMUNews - Female circumcisions in Burkina Faso lead to death, hospitalizations

2007-09-24T10:11:00.000-04:00

One young girl died and seven others were hospitalized during a female circumcision rite in Burkina Faso last week, according to a group that opposes the practice. The country banned female circumcision in 1996, but many young girls continue to be forced to undergone the painful ritual in secret.

CaMUNews - Envoys: More countries must participate in Darfur peacekeeping

2007-09-24T10:10:00.001-04:00

Leaders from 26 countries were invited to meet Friday to talk about plans for a joint United Nations-African Union peacekeeping force in Darfur and getting aid to people who have fled from their homes there. Some UN officials said other countries will have to provide more soldiers and other support due to the lack of proper equipment for African troops. AlertNet.org/Reuters

CaMUNews - Political hope emerges in Zimbabwe's crisis

2007-09-24T10:09:00.000-04:00

Constitutional changes approved by legislators from Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU-PF party and its political opposition will allow the country to hold presidential and parliamentary elections together next year. The vote signals that the two sides are moving toward a compromise that could ease Zimbabwe's political and economic crisis. The New York Times

CaMUNews - Ebola outbreak spurs Congolese to change social behavior

2007-09-24T10:08:00.002-04:00

The spread of the Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo has prompted residents of one province to stop shaking hands and kissing when they meet. Health workers say residents have little information about Ebola, which spreads through direct contact with blood, body fluids and tissue. AlertNet.org/Reuters

CaMUNews - UNICEF, WHO data questioned

2007-09-24T10:08:00.001-04:00

A leading medical journal on Thursday questioned the way UNICEF and the World Health Organization have presented some of their health data. The Lancet said UNICEF's release last week on global child mortality was skewed and that a WHO malaria study ignored certain important factors. UNICEF defended the way it had released its child mortality study. AlertNet.org/Reuters

CaMUNews - Soy sows new beginning for Brazil's Cerrado region

2007-09-24T10:07:00.002-04:00

Soy has transformed the economy of Brazil's Cerrado region into the scene of the country's greatest agribusiness expansion. Rotating soy, which was introduced to the region in the late 1960s, with other crops has boosted fertility of the region's soil and led to record harvests. Inter Press Service News Agency

CaMUNews - Kenya study: Malaria bednets key to saving children

2007-09-24T10:07:00.001-04:00

The risk for children under age 5 of dying from malaria can be cut nearly in half if they sleep under insecticide-treated bednets, a new study in Kenya shows. Kenya over the last three years has expanded distribution of bednets and, as a result, fewer children are dying, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme said in the journal Lancet. Yahoo!/Agence France-Presse

CaMUNews - UN will scale back Liberia peacekeeping forces

2007-09-24T10:06:00.001-04:00

The United Nations Security Council on Thursday said peacekeeping forces will remain in Liberia for another year but their number will be reduced. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Liberia's new government is stabilizing the country's security and promoting peace, but he said it is too early to know when the UN will withdraw its entire peacekeeping force. Seattle Post-Intelligencer/Associated Press (9/20) , AlertNet.org/Reuters

CaMUNews - Floods in Africa prompt urgent aid appeal

2007-09-24T10:05:00.000-04:00

Several aid organizations, including some United Nations agencies, Thursday appealed to donors to help the 1.5 million Africans badly affected by the massive floods that have hit several countries on the continent. The World Food Programme said many inundated areas will need months of food aid before they can subsist on their own. The Guardian (London)

CaMUNews - Talks to resolve Darfur conflict to move forward

2007-09-07T22:17:00.000-04:00

Talks to resolve Darfur conflict to move forward

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir announced Thursday talks aimed at bringing peace to conflict-ravaged Darfur will resume Oct. 27 in Libya. "We have taken a big step toward our shared goal of bringing peace to Darfur and are looking forward to the long-term development of Sudan. We are at a new beginning. Let us seize this moment together," Ban said. Rebel factions viewed as key to the process were divided in their reaction to the announcement. The Boston Globe/Associated Press

CaMUNews - China, U.S. line up against Taiwan UN bid

2007-09-07T22:15:00.002-04:00

China, U.S. line up against Taiwan UN bid

Chinese and American officials warned Taiwan Thursday against pursuing a referendum in support of its bid for membership in the United Nations. "We don't want to see anyone provoked by the actions of the Taiwanese, so for the moment we're going to stay with our position and continue to exert our good influence on the Taiwanese to see if we can change their position," James Jeffrey, deputy national security adviser to U.S. President George W. Bush, said. Taiwanese officials responded with vows to proceed with their referendum plans. The Washington Times

CaMUNews - Report: U.S., China should focus on preventing pollution

2007-09-07T22:15:00.001-04:00

Report: U.S., China should focus on preventing pollution

Both the U.S. and China need to do more to combat pollution and increase energy efficiency, U.S. and Chinese scientists said in a joint study released Thursday. The U.S. has cut risks from lead in gasoline, sulfur dioxide and some soot pollution. Meanwhile, China leads in research on using coal more efficiently. USA TODAY/Associated Press

CaMUNews - Refugees flee Myanmar for camps in Thailand

2007-09-07T22:10:00.000-04:00

Refugees flee Myanmar for camps in Thailand

The number of people at Thailand's largest camp for Myanmar refugees grows each day, Der Spiegel notes in this special report. The refugees, who fled to escape ethnic cleansing by Myanmar's military junta, receive food and shelter and are permitted to leave the camps once a year. Spiegel Online

CaMUNews - Severe human rights abuse persists in Somalia, experts say

2007-09-07T22:08:00.001-04:00

Severe human rights abuse persists in Somalia, experts say

Displacements and human rights abuses in Somalia are among the worst in the world, Leslie Lefkow, co-author of a Human Rights Watch report, said Wednesday. Lefkow, who spoke with other experts at a panel discussion at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, cited the shelling of Mogadishu neighborhoods by the Ethiopian military earlier this year as an example. AllAfrica Global Media

CaMUNews - Challenger seeks to outwit Pakistan's Musharraf

2007-09-07T22:04:00.000-04:00

Challenger seeks to outwit Pakistan's Musharraf

Pakistan's political drama continued Friday as former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif made reservations on five flights for his scheduled return home on Monday. Sharif, who was sent into exile by current leader Pervez Musharraf in 2000, has vowed to challenge the President-General in upcoming elections. A court in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore issued an arrest warrant for Sharif's brother, also a prominent politician, in an effort to prevent him returning alongside the former prime minister. The Guardian (London)

CaMUNews - Violence taints Guatemala's election season

2007-09-07T22:00:00.000-04:00

Violence taints Guatemala's election season

Recent political violence in Guatemala demonstrates instability present throughout the country, says this special report from the Christian Science Monitor. Almost 50 candidates, political activists and leaders have been killed this election season. "The killings during the election is not just a struggle between the parties; it is a reflection of the situation that Guatemalans live each day," Anders Kompass, head of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Guatemala, told the paper. The Christian Science Monitor

CaMUNews - International community must help solve conflict in Somalia

2007-09-07T21:59:00.000-04:00

International community must help solve conflict in Somalia

The international community must help solve persistent violence and displacement in Somalia, writes Anna Husarska, a senior policy adviser at the International Rescue Committee. The situation could have dire humanitarian consequences because people have nowhere to flee and Somalia does not have basic infrastructure to fall back on, says Husarska. MSNBC

CaMUNews - Ban visits Darfur, pushes for conflict solution

2007-09-05T17:11:00.000-04:00

Ban visits Darfur, pushes for conflict solution

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon visited Darfur Wednesday, saying he will pressure Sudan's government and rebel groups to find a solution to the stubborn conflict in the region. Ban, who's on a week-long African trip, is laying the groundwork for a hybrid UN-African Union peace force for the strife-torn region. Reuters (9/5) , The New York Times

CaMUNews - Israel court: Redraw route of barrier

2007-09-05T17:08:00.000-04:00

Israel court: Redraw route of barrier

BILIN, West Bank (AP) — In an embarrassing blow, Israel's Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered the state to redraw the route of its West Bank separation barrier near this Palestinian village that has come to symbolize opposition to the enclosure.
Pressure mounted, meanwhile, on Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to strike hard in Gaza after a rocket hit near a nursery school, and scenes of screaming children and terrified parents were broadcast nationwide. On Tuesday, Vice Premier Haim Ramon, an Olmert confidant, proposed cutting off electricity, fuel and water to the coastal strip.

The Defense Ministry is considering the possibility of limiting water and electricity to Gaza, officials said. Also, the ministry declared a state of emergency in Israeli communities near Gaza, but the effects of that were unclear.
Residents of the village of Bilin went to court arguing that the current route of the separation barrier kept them from reaching their fields and orchards. Villagers and their Israeli and foreign supporters have protested at the barrier every Friday for the past 2 1/2 years, routinely sparring with police in clashes that have wounded dozens.
The Israeli government argued that the route was necessary to protect residents of the nearby settlement of Modiin Illit, and completed the section near Bilin.
A three-judge Supreme Court panel unanimously rejected the government's argument Tuesday, ordering defense planners to change the barrier's route to cause less harm to village residents.
"We were not convinced that it is necessary for security-military reasons to retain the current route that passes on Bilin's lands," Chief Justice Dorit Beinish wrote.
The judges ordered the government to come up with a new route in a "reasonable period of time."
"We went to court, hired the best lawyers in Israel and we won," said Abdullah Abu Rahma, one of the leaders of the weekly protest. He vowed that villagers would keep fighting until the fence was moved entirely off Bilin's land.
Elated villagers poured out of homes and schools and headed toward the fence, where several army jeeps gathered as the crowd began to swell. "They demolished the Berlin Wall, we want to demolish the Bilin wall," they chanted. Men waving Palestinian flags burst into a traditional Arab dance. "Soldiers, go home," shouted several who were ordered to climb down from a gate in the barrier.
The Israeli Defense Ministry, which has overseen construction of the barrier, said in a statement that it would "study the ruling and respect it."
Israel's Supreme Court has made several such rulings in the past, ordering authorities to move the fence in several parts of the West Bank.
Israel began building the 425-mile barrier — a combination of concrete walls, fences, trenches and patrol roads — along the West Bank in 2002, saying it was a necessary weapon in its war against Palestinian suicide bombers. But the barrier juts into West Bank territory, provoking Palestinian claims that Israel is using security arguments to take land they want for an independent state.
Just under two-thirds of the barrier's planned final length of 490 miles has so far been completed, according to Israel's Defense Ministry. About 8% of West Bank territory would lie on the "Israeli" side.
In the West Bank, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas denounced militant rocket attacks on southern Israel from Gaza, where Islamic Hamas militants are in control.
"We condemn the launching of rockets from Gaza and other places because these actions harm peace and the peace process," he said at a news conference.
Ramon, the Israeli vice premier, said severing water, fuel and electrical supplies to impoverished Gaza would force Hamas to stop the daily rocket fire.
"We won't continue to supply oxygen (to Gaza) in the form of electricity, fuel and water when they are trying to kill our children," he told Army Radio.
Cutoffs would greatly disrupt life in Gaza, which relies heavily on Israel for electricity and water. But it would likely draw heavy international condemnation.
While Ramon is close to Olmert, government spokesman David Baker said the vice premier was voicing his own opinion.
On Monday, Olmert said he instructed the army "to destroy every Qassam rocket launcher and anyone who is involved in their launching." He is to convene his security Cabinet on Wednesday to discuss a response to the rocket attacks.
Tzahi Hanegbi, chairman of parliament's influential foreign affairs and defense committee, said Israel had "no choice" but to launch a broad military operation in Gaza "at some stage." But military officials said a large-scale operation wasn't expected soon because the army's top command opposes it.
Military leaders are reluctant to divert resources from the northern front in case tensions with Syria and Lebanese guerrillas reignite, they said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss sensitive security matters with the press.
What's more, past fighting in crowded Gaza has resulted in heavy Israeli and Palestinian civilian casualties.
Israel is likely to continue with its frequent airstrikes and brief ground incursions against rocket launchers. Last week, Israeli fire killed three Palestinian children playing in an area used by rocket squads.
Also Tuesday, Israel let more than 150 Palestinians stranded in Gaza cross through Israeli territory to reach jobs and studies in Egypt and other countries. It was the largest group of people to be allowed out since Israel sealed Gaza's borders in response to the Hamas takeover.
In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot an 8-year-old Palestinian boy in the head with a rubber-coated bullet, seriously wounding him, Palestinian hospital officials said. The army said troops operating in the area encountered rioters throwing rocks and fired rubber-coated bullets in response.
Copyright 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

CaMUNews - Natural gas project helps protect Peru rain forest

2007-09-05T17:07:00.000-04:00

Natural gas project helps protect Peru rain forest

A natural gas extraction project in Peru is helping protect large areas of rain forest in the Lower Urubamba region. Questions surrounding how energy extraction can coexist with preservation are becoming more important as energy sources grow more scarce. IDBAmerica

CaMUNews - Pakistani entrepreneurs begin to rev up economic engine

2007-09-05T16:45:00.002-04:00

Pakistani entrepreneurs begin to rev up economic engine

Politics in Pakistan are growing more unstable, but the country may have a strong economic future thanks to a fresh boom in business entrepreneurs, The Wall Street Journal reports. Whether it's fitness studios, hair-transplant centers or liposuction services, a whole new class of businesses are popping up and pushing the economy along. The Wall Street Journal

CaMUNews - Paraplegics in poor countries face double whammy

2007-09-05T16:45:00.001-04:00

Paraplegics in poor countries face double whammy

Living long-term with a severe injury can be almost impossible in developing countries. Paraplegics with access to proper health care can live as long as able-bodied people, but charity groups note that most paraplegics in developing countries often die within two or three years of their injuries. AlertNet.org/Reuters

CaMUNews - Higher fuel, grain prices curtail food donations

2007-09-05T16:43:00.002-04:00

Higher fuel, grain prices curtail food donations

Higher grain and shipping prices have pushed down food donations to their lowest level since 1973. Aid groups say donor countries must increase their aid budgets to meet the needs of the world's 850 million malnourished people. They also note that the higher prices may eliminate aid for some needy communities. Reuters

CaMUNews - New health campaign aims to improve how aid is used

2007-09-05T16:43:00.001-04:00

New health campaign aims to improve how aid is used

Seven developing countries will participate in a new campaign that will help them use aid more effectively to address basic needs. The International Health Partnership is aimed at reducing child and maternal mortality and building long-term health infrastructure. Donors participating in the program hope to provide more predictable funding to poor countries. Reuters

CaMUNews - UN: Mobile phone use soars in poor countries

2007-09-05T16:12:00.000-04:00

UN: Mobile phone use soars in poor countries

Telephone service around the world has quadrupled in the last decade to 4 billion accounts, the International Telecommunications Union reported Tuesday. The increase is largely due to a skyrocketing growth of mobile phones in developing countries, the UN's telecommunications agency said. USA TODAY/Associated Press

CaMUNews - As deserts expand, more people at risk

2007-09-04T13:49:00.000-04:00

As deserts expand, more people at risk

Deserts are spreading in many areas around the world, threatening the livelihoods of hundreds of millions of people, experts and politicians said at a United Nations-sponsored meeting on desertification that began Monday in Madrid. Most vulnerable is Africa, where the spread of arid land costs the continent some $9 billion per year, according to the UN Environment Programme.

CaMUNews - Climate meeting finds no easy fix for global warming

2007-09-04T13:48:00.002-04:00

Climate meeting finds no easy fix for global warming

Industrialized countries agreed last week at the United Nations-sponsored meeting on climate change to a nonbinding goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 25% to 40% by 2020 compared to 1990 levels. But the Vienna meeting, which ended Friday, saw continued disagreements between rich and poor countries on how to best tackle the climate problem. The Washington Post

CaMUNews - UNFAO sees threats against unusual livestock breeds

2007-09-04T13:48:00.001-04:00

UNFAO sees threats against unusual livestock breeds

About one-fifth of the world's thousands of breeds of farm animals are at risk of extinction and some are disappearing already, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation has warned. One problem is that the world increasingly is relying on a few highly productive breeds, while others, especially in poor countries, are suffering from lack of resources and investment.

CaMUNews - Ban calls on Sudan to help promote Darfur peace

2007-09-04T13:46:00.000-04:00

Ban calls on Sudan to help promote Darfur peace

Source: BBC NewsUnited Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Monday began a trip to Africa that will focus on ending the violence in Darfur. He called for Sudan to protect the human rights of all of its citizens and said he supports a plan that would involve peacekeepers as well as negotiations between rebel militias and the government. "There must be a peace to keep," Ban said. "Peacekeeping must be accompanied by a political solution." After the speech, Ban met privately with Sudan's President Omar Hassan al-Bashir

CaMUNews - Children leave Zimbabwe for neighboring states

2007-09-04T13:45:00.000-04:00

Children leave Zimbabwe for neighboring states

Severe food shortages and high unemployment rates have prompted many unaccompanied Zimbabwean children to leave their country in search of better lives in South Africa. A report by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the UN World Food Programme predicts the number of people in Zimbabwe at risk of severe food shortages will peak at 4.1 million in the first three months of 2008. IRINNews.org

CaMUNews - Study: Mental health problems growing in poor world

2007-09-04T13:44:00.000-04:00

Study: Mental health problems growing in poor world

Developing countries should try to do more to help people with mental health problems, health experts have urged. Poor countries are typically ill-prepared to properly support people with mental problems, which are being made worse by such issues as poverty, disease and war, researchers said in the British medical journal The Lancet. BBC (9/4) , Los Angeles Times/Associated Press

CaMUNews - IAEA report says Iran nuclear cooperation improving

2007-08-31T14:28:00.000-04:00

IAEA report says Iran nuclear cooperation improving

An International Atomic Energy Agency report set to be presented early next month claims that while overall nuclear work in Iran appears to be slowing, the enrichment of uranium continues. The report also said Iran was cooperating more fully with IAEA inspectors in an effort to make its nuclear activities more transparent. The Sun (Baltimore)

CaMUNews - UN refugee chief praises Iraq's neighbors for efforts

2007-08-31T14:27:00.002-04:00

UN refugee chief praises Iraq's neighbors for efforts

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Antonio Guterres, this week praised Jordan and Syria for taking in most of the 2 million Iraqi refugees that have fled the war in their native country. Guterres called on the international community to do more to help relieve Iraq's neighbors from bearing more than their share of the burden. International Herald Tribune/Associated Press