An Indonesia police anti-terrorism squad has shot dead six fighters and arrested another in an all-night standoff at a house near the capital Jakarta, officials said.
Indonesia police kill six terrorism suspects - Asia-Pacific - Al Jazeera English
Tuesday 31 December 2013
Monday 30 December 2013
Lebanese forces fire on Syrian planes, officials say
It was the first time since the outbreak of the Syria's conflict three years ago that the Lebanese military took action to prevent Syrian warplanes from violating its airspace.
forces fire on Syrian planes, officials say - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Sunday 29 December 2013
Chinese police gun down 'terrorists'
Police in the northwest region of Xinjiang killed eight people after what they are calling a "terrorist attack".
Chinese police gun down 'terrorists' - Asia-Pacific - Al Jazeera English
Chinese police gun down 'terrorists' - Asia-Pacific - Al Jazeera English
Second deadly blast in Russia's Volgograd
Local news agency says at least 10 people killed after a trolleybus explodes in Volgograd city.
Second deadly blast in Russia's Volgograd - Europe - Al Jazeera EnglishDeadly blast hits Russian train station - Europe
A suicide bomber has set off a blast in a train station in the southern Russian city of Volgograd killing at least 15 people and injuring at least 34, news reports and officials have said.
Deadly blast hits Russian train station - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Two rockets fired at northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona
One rocket explodes near Kiryat Shmona, though five apparently launched; Netanyahu: Hezbollah carrying out a double war crime under the cover of the Lebanese government.
Two rockets fired at northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona - Diplomacy and Defense Israel News | Haaretz
Saudi Arabia pledges $3bn to Lebanese army
"The king of the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is offering this generous and appreciated aid of $3bn to the Lebanese army to strengthen its capabilities," Suleiman said in a televised address on Sunday.
He said the funds would allow Lebanon's military to purchase French weapons. He did not provide any further details of the deal, but said French President Francois Hollande was to discuss the matter during his visit Sunday to Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia pledges $3bn to Lebanese army - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Saturday 28 December 2013
Deadly 'barrel bomb' raid hits Aleppo market - Middle East
At least 25 people, including children, reportedly killed after Syrian regime helicopters dropped TNT-packed barrels.
Deadly 'barrel bomb' raid hits Aleppo market - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
The Jewish philosopher who tried to convince Israel not to try Eichmann
Like many other intellectuals, Berlin believed that Israel must not try Eichmann. In his letter to Kollek, which is addressed to Ben-Gurion, Berlin wrote that this is a political trial driven by revenge and wonders what lies behind it: Is the purpose “to remind the Jews that they are one and that they are in danger in the Diaspora?” He answered his own question, stating that “they either know or don’t know this; and this won’t convert anyone.” Is the trial intended to “remind the world about the slaughter?” In his view, the world is already irritable about the “efforts to bring up the ghosts of even the recent past” and “it will stop its ears to half the guilt of the guilty – German, British, etc.?” He questions, “Justice for its own sake?” and replies that “then the victims may not sit in judgment.” According to Berlin, the victims – namely, the Jews – “can take reprisals, assassinate, punish but not try.”
http://www.haaretz.com/mobile/1.565872?v=365DF972FBAFF8E60A94A07CD1F5A4AC
http://www.haaretz.com/mobile/1.565872?v=365DF972FBAFF8E60A94A07CD1F5A4AC
Putin’s Rearguard Battle
MADRID – Russia’s recent diplomatic successes in Syria and Iran, together with foreign-policy missteps by US President Barack Obama, have emboldened President Vladimir Putin in his drive to position Russia as capable of challenging American exceptionalism and Western universalism. But Putin’s recent address to Russia’s Federal Assembly was more a reflection of his resentment of Russia’s geopolitical marginalization than a battle cry from a rising empire.
To be sure, with America exhausted from its fruitless wars in the Middle East, and Europe turning inward as it faces its own crises, the case for a multipolar discourse is more convincing today than at any other time since the Cold War. But this does not change the fact that Russia is a declining power, whose diplomatic triumphs are mere tactical achievements that do not add up to a strategic game changer for the world.
Friday 27 December 2013
At least eight killed by bomb blast in Somali capital
At least eight
people were killed in Mogadishu on Friday when a remotely controlled
bomb exploded in a busy restaurant in the Somali capital, police
official and witnesses said.
Police suspect al Qaeda-linked Islamist group al Shabaab of planting the bomb, which went off in the notoriously insecure Dayniile district where, police say, al Shabaab militants often hide.
Al Shabaab did not immediately claim responsibility.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/27/us-somalia-bomb-mogadishu-idUSBRE9BQ05P20131227
Police suspect al Qaeda-linked Islamist group al Shabaab of planting the bomb, which went off in the notoriously insecure Dayniile district where, police say, al Shabaab militants often hide.
Al Shabaab did not immediately claim responsibility.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/27/us-somalia-bomb-mogadishu-idUSBRE9BQ05P20131227
China formally eases one-child policy, abolishes labor camps
China formally approved on Saturday easing its decades-long one-child policy and the abolition of a controversial labor camp system, the official Xinhua news agency reported.
Both were among a sweeping raft of reforms announced last month after a meeting of the ruling Communist Party that mapped out policy for the next decade.
Under the new policy, couples will be allowed to have two children if one of the parents is an only child. Previously, a couple could generally only have a second child if both parents were only children.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/28/us-china-reform-idUSBRE9BR01N20131228
Portuguese plumbers discover 600-year-old Jewish ritual baths
While replacing the piping of an old building in what used to be the Jewish part of Coimbra, plumbers find cluster of ancient mikvehs.
Portuguese plumbers discover 600-year-old Jewish ritual baths - Jewish World News Israel News | Haaretz
Portuguese plumbers discover 600-year-old Jewish ritual baths - Jewish World News Israel News | Haaretz
Russia says Syrian toxin removal deadline will be missed
Playing with fire...
Deadline will be missed because toxins that can be used to make sarin, VX gas and other agents were being packed up and still faced a potentially hazardous trip to the port of Latakia, Russian diplomat says.
Russia says Syrian toxin removal deadline will be missed - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Deadline will be missed because toxins that can be used to make sarin, VX gas and other agents were being packed up and still faced a potentially hazardous trip to the port of Latakia, Russian diplomat says.
Russia says Syrian toxin removal deadline will be missed - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Beirut car bombing kills top politician
Blast in Lebanese capital kills six people, including former minister Mohamad Chatah, a close aide of ex-PM Saad Hariri.
Beirut car bombing kills top politician - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Beirut car bombing kills top politician - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Fresh protests in Egypt turn deadly
Several protesters killed and hundreds arrested as police disperse rallies in support of deposed president.
Fresh protests in Egypt turn deadly - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Fresh protests in Egypt turn deadly - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Deadly explosion rocks Lebanese capital
Blast in Beirut kills former minister Shattah, a close aide of ex-prime minister Saad Hariri, and at least five others.
Deadly explosion rocks Lebanese capital - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Malaysia trial tests new security law
Some 30 people, 27 of them Filipinos, will go on trial in early January in a specially-converted hall in Sabah’s state prison complex to face charges of "waging war" against Malaysia’s King, in what is set to be the most significant test yet of the country’s newest security law.
Malaysia trial tests new security law - Features - Al Jazeera English
Lebanese Tripoli put under army control
This is the first time since the end of Lebanon's civil war in 1990 that the army has been ordered full control of a city.
The army will be in charge of carrying out arrests ordered by the judiciary. The military has announced the increase of security measures, such as patrols and checkpoints, in the northern port city.
Lebanese Tripoli put under army control - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Yemen: Redrawing the political map?
Political representatives in the country signed a deal on southern autonomy on Monday. But the new agreement, that could solve the intractable issue of autonomy in Yemen, has been rejected by three leading parties.
The document, that was signed by the government, 17 political parties and civil groups, could redraw the political map of Yemen. It aims to give power to federal states within the country, and it provides a blueprint for some level of self-rule in the restive south.
Yemen: Redrawing the political map? - Inside Story - Al Jazeera English
Wednesday 25 December 2013
Snowden declares 'mission accomplished' - Americas - Al Jazeera English
Snowden declares 'mission accomplished' - Americas - Al Jazeera English
Six months after his initial leak of NSA documents, Edward Snowden has said he accomplished what he set out to do.
Two rockets land in US embassy Kabul compound
Two rockets have landed inside the US embassy compound in Kabul, causing no casualties but underlining Afghanistan's continuing security problems as many foreigners in the capital marked Christmas Day.
Two rockets land in US embassy Kabul compound - Africa - Al Jazeera English
UN approves more S Sudan peacekeepers
The 15-member council unanimously authorised on Tuesday a request by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to boost the strength of the UN mission in South Sudan to 12,500 troops and 1,323 police - up from its previous mandate of 7,000 troops and 900 police.
UN approves more S Sudan peacekeepers - Africa - Al Jazeera English
Egypt blast was payback for dispersal of Islamist protests, minister says - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
The country's interim government accused the Muslim Brotherhood of orchestrating the attack, branding it a "terrorist organization." But the Islamist group condemned the bombing, describing it in a statement as a "direct attack on the unity of the Egyptian people" and demanding that the perpetrators be found and brought to justice.
It was the first major bombing in the Nile Delta, spreading the carnage that has marked Egypt's turmoil over the past months to a new area and bringing it closer to Cairo. Previous deadly violence has mostly taken place in the volatile Sinai Peninsula and in Suez Canal-area cities east of the Egyptian capital.Egypt blast was payback for dispersal of Islamist protests, minister says - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Saudi Arabia ready to act on Iran, Syria, 'with or without West' - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Saudi Arabia has "global responsibilities," the diplomat added, "and we will act to fulfill these responsibilities, with or without the support of our Western partners. Nothing is ruled out in our pursuit of sustainable peace and stability in the Arab World as King Abdullah — then Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince — showed with his leadership of the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict."
Saudi Arabia ready to act on Iran, Syria, 'with or without West' - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Saudi Arabia ready to act on Iran, Syria, 'with or without West' - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Tuesday 24 December 2013
Monday 23 December 2013
The Warsaw Ghetto myth -
What right did a small group of young people have to decide the fate of the 50,000 Jews of the Warsaw Ghetto?
The Warsaw Ghetto myth - Jewish World Features Israel News | Haaretz
The Warsaw Ghetto myth - Jewish World Features Israel News | Haaretz
Egypt deems Muslim Brotherhood 'terrorists' after huge blast - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
At least 14 people are believed to have died in a large explosion that destroyed a police headquarters in a Nile Delta city north of Cairo early Tuesday morning, according to the state news agency and a security official. Some 200 people were injured in the blast.
The Egyptian government accused the Muslim Brotherhood of orchestrating the attack. Cabinet spokesman Sherief Shawki said Prime Minister Hazem el-Beblawi had officially declared the group a terrorist organisation. The Muslim Brotherhood, however, condemned the attack in an emailed statement from the group's London press office released hours after the explosion.
Egypt deems Muslim Brotherhood 'terrorists' after huge blast - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Sunday 22 December 2013
US 'helped kill Colombia rebel leaders'
Report alleges George W. Bush launched secret CIA programme that included "substantial eavesdropping help" from the NSA.
A secret CIA programme helped Colombia kill at least two dozen FARC leaders, The Washington Post has reported.
Washington's covert help in targeting Latin America's oldest insurgency, funded through a multibillion-dollar black budget, also includes "substantial eavesdropping help" from the National Security Agency, the newspaper said on Sunday.
The secret CIA programme - separate from the $9bn US aid package dubbed Plan Colombia, which launched in 2000 - was alleged to have been initially authorised by president George W. Bush around the same time.
It was thanks to US intelligence that the FARC number two, Raul Reyes, was found and killed in 2008, the report said.
US 'helped kill Colombia rebel leaders' - Americas - Al Jazeera English
Three U.S. aircraft hit by gunfire in South Sudan
Gunfire hit three U.S. military aircraft trying to evacuate American citizens in a remote region of South Sudan that on Saturday became a battle ground between the country's military and renegade troops, officials said.
Three U.S. aircraft hit by gunfire in South Sudan - World Israel News | Haaretz
Three U.S. aircraft hit by gunfire in South Sudan - World Israel News | Haaretz
Government airstrikes kill at least 32 in Syria
Since it began on December 15, the government's unusually heavy air campaign in Aleppo has killed more than 200 people, smashed residential buildings and overwhelmed the city's hospitals with casualties.
Government airstrikes kill at least 32 in Syria - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Government airstrikes kill at least 32 in Syria - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
UK says Syria must answer for doctor's death
British Prime Minister David Cameron has written to the family of a British doctor who died in a Syrian jail, saying Damascus must "answer for" his "sickening" death.
A government source said on Sunday that the prime minister wrote to the family of Abbas Khan: "Abbas' death is a sickening and appalling tragedy and it is right that the Syrian regime should answer for it."
UK says Syria must answer for doctor's death - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Al-Qaeda in Yemen 'sorry' for hospital attack
The armed group initially denied the assault but, after footage appeared and caused an outcry, it issued a rare apology.
Al-Qaeda in Yemen 'sorry' for hospital attack - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Friday 20 December 2013
Dozens killed as fresh fighting erupts in CAR
At least 37 people dead in capital Bangui, while local hospitals overflow with injured from sectarian clashes.
Dozens killed as fresh fighting erupts in CAR - Africa - Al Jazeera EnglishSyria rebel chief rejects Geneva peace talks
Leader of Ahrar al-Sham, Syria's most powerful rebel group, tells Al Jazeera he will not recognise potential agreement.
Syria rebel chief rejects Geneva peace talks - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Syria rebel chief rejects Geneva peace talks - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Egyptian soldiers shot dead in Sinai
Rebels kill two members of armed forces and injure eight as army attempts to arrest leader of al-Qaeda-linked group.
Egyptian soldiers shot dead in Sinai - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Raposa do Sol
Criticar os indios dizendo que sao improdutivos ultrapassa a ignorancia... Reserva indigena nao tem e nem deve terr felacao alguma com o agronegocio, e a intervencao do Estado tb é controversa, geralmente faz mal, isso sem falar em genocio cultural comum por aqui nos secul anteriores e einda em pratica..
http://www.cartacapital.com.br/sociedade/apos-4-anos-demarcacao-da-raposa-serra-do-sol-foi-positiva-mas-falta-presenca-do-estado-6230.html
http://www.cartacapital.com.br/sociedade/apos-4-anos-demarcacao-da-raposa-serra-do-sol-foi-positiva-mas-falta-presenca-do-estado-6230.html
Thursday 19 December 2013
Hassan v. United Kingdom, IHL and IHRL, and Other News in (Extra-)Territoriality and Shared Responsibility
Last week the Grand Chamber of the
European Court of Human Rights held an oral hearing in what is bound to
be a very important case, Hassan v. UK. The case deals with the
detention of an Iraqi by British forces in southern Iraq and his
subsequent release and death under unclear circumstances. As such it
raises both threshold questions on extraterritorial
applicability/Article 1 jurisdiction and substantive issues on the
relationship between human rights and international humanitarian law. Here is the Court’s press release on the hearings, and here’s the actual webcast of the hearings. Shaheed Fatima also has a good preview of the case over at Just Security.
The jurisdiction issue is made more complicated by uncertainties left after Al-Skeini as
to whether and when exactly the UK had effective overall control over
southern Iraq for the purpose of spatial model of Article 1
jurisdiction, as well as by the fact that the camp to which Hassan was
taken upon arrest was run by the US. The multiplicity of actors can thus
render both the jurisdiction and the attribution questions more
difficult. But I will not deal with them here. Rather, I want to focus
on the interaction between the ECHR and IHL.
In that regard, together with the pending Georgia v. Russia interstate case, Hassan presents
an excellent opportunity for the Court to articulate a clear and
systematic approach on IHL. Hopefully this is an opportunity that the
Court will take up, and the questions posed by the various judges during
the oral hearing are an indication that they will do so.
http://www.ejiltalk.org/hassan-v-united-kingdom-ihl-and-ihrl-and-other-news-in-extra-territoriality-and-shared-responsibility/Wednesday 18 December 2013
South Sudan death toll rises sharply
Up to 500 people have been killed in violent clashes in the South Sudanese capital, Juba, a day after President Salva Kiir said security forces had put down an attempted coup by supporters of his former deputy.
The violence was the focus of an emergency UN Security Council meeting, which heard that as many as 800 people had been injured, and some 20,000 people had sought refuge in UN compounds.
South Sudan death toll rises sharply - Africa - Al Jazeera English
Tuesday 17 December 2013
Monday 16 December 2013
US offers naval security aid to Asian nations
The US to give over $30m, more than half to Vietnam, as tensions grow with China over the South China Sea.
US offers naval security aid to Asian nations - Asia-pacific - Al Jazeera English
US offers naval security aid to Asian nations - Asia-pacific - Al Jazeera English
Russian missile movements stir tension
NATO members react warily to report Moscow has deployed Iskander missiles in its Baltic Sea enclave of Kaliningrad.
Russian missile movements stir tension - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Death toll rises in Syria bombing raid
Syrian government air raids using barrel bombs on rebel-controlled areas of Syria's second city of Aleppo have killed at least 125 people and injured scores of others, Al Jazeera's reporter in the northern city said.
Residents on Monday were still trying to recover bodies from the rubble, a day after regime helicopters dropped barrels filled with explosives on civilian rebel-held districts in the northern city.
Death toll rises in Syria bombing raid - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Residents on Monday were still trying to recover bodies from the rubble, a day after regime helicopters dropped barrels filled with explosives on civilian rebel-held districts in the northern city.
Death toll rises in Syria bombing raid - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Sunday 15 December 2013
Thursday 12 December 2013
Saudi Grand Mufti condemns suicide attacks
Saudi Arabia's Grand Mufti, the highest religious authority in the country, has condemned suicide bombings as grave crimes, reiterating his stance in unusually strong language.
The Saudi cleric, whose views influence those Muslims who adhere to the kingdom's hardline version of Islam, denounced suicide attacks after al-Qaeda's 2001 assault on US cities, but his latest comments, published on Thursday, recast the message in sharp terms.
"Killing oneself is a grave crime and a grave sin," Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Sheikh was quoted as saying by the Saudi-owned Al-Hayat newspaper.
"Those who kill themselves with explosives are criminals who are hastening their way to hell."
Saudi Grand Mufti condemns suicide attacks - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
The Saudi cleric, whose views influence those Muslims who adhere to the kingdom's hardline version of Islam, denounced suicide attacks after al-Qaeda's 2001 assault on US cities, but his latest comments, published on Thursday, recast the message in sharp terms.
"Killing oneself is a grave crime and a grave sin," Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Sheikh was quoted as saying by the Saudi-owned Al-Hayat newspaper.
"Those who kill themselves with explosives are criminals who are hastening their way to hell."
Saudi Grand Mufti condemns suicide attacks - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Fatal air strike hits wedding convoy in Yemen - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
At least 13 people have been killed on their way to a wedding in Yemen by a suspected United States drone strike, local officials have said.
The air strike occurred on Thursday in the village of Qaifa, in Yemen's central al-Bayda province.
A military official told Associated Press news agency that initial information indicated the drone operators mistook the wedding party for an al-Qaeda convoy. He said tribesmen known to the villagers were among the dead.
Yemen is among a handful of countries where the US acknowledges using drones, although it does not comment on the practice. The US considers Yemen's branch of al-Qaeda to be the most active in the world.
Human Rights Watch said in a detailed report in August that US missile strikes in Yemen, including armed drone attacks, have killed dozens of civilians.
Fatal air strike hits wedding convoy in Yemen - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
UN: Multiple chemical attacks likely in Syria
The report, published on Thursday, examined seven attacks in which chemical weapons use had been alleged.
"The United Nations Mission concludes that chemical weapons have been used in the ongoing conflict between the parties in the Syrian Arab Republic," noted the report by chief UN investigator Ake Sellstrom.
UN: Multiple chemical attacks likely in Syria - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
"The United Nations Mission concludes that chemical weapons have been used in the ongoing conflict between the parties in the Syrian Arab Republic," noted the report by chief UN investigator Ake Sellstrom.
UN: Multiple chemical attacks likely in Syria - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Bangladesh execution sparks violent protests
Wave of violence sweeps through towns and cities after hanging of opposition leader convicted of war crimes.
Deputy law minister Quamrul Islam announced Mollah's execution, saying he was hanged by the neck on Friday in a jail in the capital, Dhaka.
"It's an historic moment. Finally after four decades, the victims of the genocides of 1971 liberation war have got some justice," Islam told the AFP news agency.
Bangladesh execution sparks violent protests - Central & South Asia - Al Jazeera English
Deputy law minister Quamrul Islam announced Mollah's execution, saying he was hanged by the neck on Friday in a jail in the capital, Dhaka.
"It's an historic moment. Finally after four decades, the victims of the genocides of 1971 liberation war have got some justice," Islam told the AFP news agency.
Bangladesh execution sparks violent protests - Central & South Asia - Al Jazeera English
N Korea says leader's powerful uncle executed
News agency says Jang Song-thaek, uncle of Kim Jong-un, was found guilty of seeking to overthrow the state.
N Korea says leader's powerful uncle executed - Asia-Pacific - Al Jazeera English
N Korea says leader's powerful uncle executed - Asia-Pacific - Al Jazeera English
Wednesday 11 December 2013
US mulls sanctions against Ukraine
White House "appalled" by Ukrainian government's crackdown on massive protests at Kiev's Independence Square.
The United States may impose sanctions against Ukraine if security forces intensify a crackdown on anti-government demonstrators in the capital's Independence Square.US lawmakers said on Wednesday they were considering legislation to deny visas to Ukrainian officials or to freeze their American assets if violence escalates at the central protest camp.
US mulls sanctions against Ukraine - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Monday 9 December 2013
Resolution 2127 (2013) 5.12.13
The Security Council,
“Recalling its previous resolutions and statements on the Central African Republic (CAR), in particular resolution 2121 (2013),
“Reaffirming its strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and unity of the CAR, and recalling the importance of the principles of good-neighbourliness and regional cooperation,
“Expressing deep concern at the continuing deterioration of the security situation in the CAR, characterized by a total breakdown in law and order, the absence of the rule of law, inter-sectarian tensions and further expressing its grave concern about the consequences of instability in the CAR, on the central African region and beyond, and stressing in this regard the need for the international community to respond swiftly,
“Remaining seriously concerned by multiple and increasing violations of international humanitarian law and the widespread human rights violations and abuses, notably by former Seleka and militia groups, in particular those known as the “antibalaka”, including those involving extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and detention, torture, sexual violence against women and children, rape, recruitment and use of children and attacks against civilians,
“Underlying its particular concern at the new dynamic of violence and retaliation and the risk of it degenerating into a country-wide religious and ethnic divide, with the potential to spiral into an uncontrollable situation, including serious crimes under international law in particular war crimes and crimes against humanity, with serious regional implications,
“Further expressing concern at the insufficient capacity of the police, justice and corrections institutions to hold perpetrators of such violations and abuses accountable,
“Condemning all violence targeting members of ethnic and religious groups and their leaders and encouraging all parties and stakeholders in the CAR to support and contribute effectively, with the assistance of the international community, to intercommunal and interfaith dialogues, aiming at alleviating the current tensions on the ground,
“Reiterating that all perpetrators of such acts must be held accountable and that some of those acts may amount to crimes under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), to which the CAR is a State party, and further recalling the statement made by the Prosecutor of the ICC on 7 August 2013,
“Reiterating its condemnation of the devastation of natural heritage and noting that poaching and trafficking of wildlife are among the factors that fuel the crisis in the CAR,
“Noting the decision by the Kimberley Process to suspend the CAR,
“Welcoming the report of the Secretary-General dated 15 November 2013, on the situation in the CAR and on the planning of MISCA and taking note of the detailed options for international support to MISCA,
“Recalling that the Transitional Authorities have the primary responsibility to protect the civilian population,
“Further recalling its resolutions 1265 (1999), 1296 (2000), 1674 (2006), 1738 (2006) and 1894 (2009) on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, its resolutions 1612 (2005), 1882 (2009), 1998 (2011) and 2068 (2012) on Children and Armed Conflict and its resolutions 1325 (2000), 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), 1889 (2009), 1960 (2010), 2106 (2013) and 2122 (2013) on Women, Peace and Security and calling upon the parties in the CAR to engage with the Special Representative on Children and Armed Conflict and the Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict,
“Stressing the importance that the Transitional Authorities ensure women’s full and equal participation in all discussions pertinent to the resolution of the conflict and in all phases of electoral processes,
“Emphasizing the risk of the situation in the CAR providing a conducive environment for transnational criminal activity, such as that involving arms trafficking and the use of mercenaries as well as a potential breeding ground for radical networks,
“Recalling its resolution 2117 (2013) and expressing grave concern at the threat to peace and security in the CAR arising from the illicit transfer, destabilizing accumulation and misuse of small arms and light weapons,
“Expressing continued concern about the activity of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the CAR due in part to the prevailing security situation,
“Reiterating its serious concern at the worsening humanitarian situation in the CAR, strongly condemning the repeated attacks on UN staff and humanitarian personnel, goods, assets and premises and the looting of humanitarian aid which have resulted in obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid,
“Underscoring the importance of respecting the United Nations guiding principles of humanitarian assistance, including neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence in the provision of humanitarian assistance,
“Urging all parties to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and United Nations and its associated personnel and their assets,
“Recalling the letter of its President dated 29 October, approving the deployment of a guard unit to the CAR as part of BINUCA and taking note of the Secretary-General’s letter of 26 November 2013 highlighting progress towards the deployment of a guard unit within BINUCA, as well as the consent of the Transitional Authorities as expressed on 5 November for such a guard unit and welcoming in this regard the contribution of the Kingdom of Morocco to this unit,
“Welcoming the decision of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU‑PSC) on 19 July 2013 to authorize the deployment of the “African-led International Support Mission in the CAR” (referred to hereafter as MISCA), as well as the adoption of a new concept of operation on 10 October 2013,
“Reiterating its appreciation for the ongoing efforts of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and its Mediator regarding the CAR crisis, as well as the efforts of the African Union to resolve the crisis, and the efforts of the International Contact Group on the CAR,
“Welcoming the strong engagement of the European Union (EU) for the CAR, in particular the Foreign Affairs Council conclusions of 21 October 2013 and the commitment of the EU to contribute financially to the deployment of MISCA within the framework of the African Peace Facility, further welcoming ongoing discussions within the EU on possible additional support,
“Welcoming the efforts made by the Secretariat to expand and improve the roster of experts for the Security Council Subsidiary Organs Branch, bearing in mind the guidance provided by the Note of the President (S/2006/997),
“Taking note of the declaration adopted by the International Contact Group on the CAR at its third meeting held in Bangui on 8 November 2013,
“Taking note of the AU PSC Communiqué of 13 November 2013, which urges the Security Council to quickly adopt a resolution endorsing and authorizing the deployment of MISCA,
“Taking note of the letter dated 22 November 2013 from the Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, stressing the importance of ensuring that peacebuilding needs in CAR are addressed immediately following stabilization of the security and humanitarian situation and, in this regard, emphasizing the Commission’s role in mobilizing and sustaining the attention and commitment of partners and actors in support of related United Nations and regional efforts,
“Taking note of the letter by the CAR authorities of 20 November 2013 requesting the support to MISCA by French forces,
“Underlining the importance of all subregional, regional and international organizations acting in the CAR improving their coordination with one another,
“Determining that the situation in the CAR constitutes a threat to international peace and security,
“Acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations,
“Political process
“1. Underlines its support for the Libreville Agreements of 11 January 2013, the N’Djamena Declaration of 18 April 2013, the Brazzaville Appeal of 3 May 2013 and the declaration adopted by the International Contact Group on the CAR at its third meeting held in Bangui on 8 November 2013;
“2. Reiterates that, according to the political agreement signed in Libreville, the Prime Minister is the Head of the Government of National Unity which is in charge of implementing the priorities defined in article 5 of this agreement and urges all parties to respect this agreement;
“3. Further reiterates that, in accordance with the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, the Libreville Agreements, the relevant ECCAS decisions and the Constitutional Charter for the Transition, the Head of Transition, the Prime Minister, the President of the National Transition Council (NTC), the Ministers and members of the NTC bureau cannot participate in the elections intended to restore the constitutional order;
“4. Urges the Transitional Authorities to take all appropriate steps for immediate disarmament, cantonment and dismantling of all armed groups, throughout the whole territory of the country, consistent with international standards;
“5. Demands the swift implementation of transitional arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 above, which shall lead to the holding of free, fair and transparent presidential and legislative elections 18 months after the beginning of the transition period as defined in article 102 of the Transitional Charter which took effect on 18 August 2013, and called for by the N’Djamena Declaration;
“6. Deplores that the Transitional Authorities have made only limited progress towards the implementation of key elements of the Transitional Framework, notably regarding the organization of elections by February 2015; and in this regard, calls upon the Transitional Authorities to swiftly put in place the National Authority for the elections which will enable the United Nations to identify the technical requirements for the successful organization of elections;
“7. Urges the Transitional Authorities to implement the “Republican Pact” signed by the transitional government on 7 November 2013, under the aegis of the Sant’Egidio, as a credible framework to promote an inclusive national dialogue between all political, social and religious parties of the country, and requests the Secretary-General, through his Special Representative for the CAR, to take appropriate steps to assist the Transitional Authorities to enhance their mediation capacity and to facilitate and strengthen such a dialogue;
“8. Expresses its intention to closely monitor the management of the Transition and commends the role of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and the ECCAS mediator;
“9. Expresses its support for BINUCA’s critical role in helping to restore the constitutional order and supporting the ongoing political process in the implementation of the Libreville agreement and the N’Djamena road map and the electoral process;
“10. Decides that any attempt to delay, impede or violate the transitional arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 above shall be considered as an impediment to the peace process and could lead to the imposition of appropriate measures defined in paragraph 56 below;
“DDR/SSR
“11. Urges Transitional Authorities to develop and implement disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) or disarmament, demobilization, repatriation, reintegration and resettlement (DDRRR) programmes including for former Seleka elements who will not be integrated into the security forces and children associated with armed forces and groups;
“12. Further urges the Transitional Authorities to develop and to implement a comprehensive and nationally owned Security Sector Reform (SSR) programme, which includes appropriate vetting procedures to reconstitute professional, balanced and representative CAR security forces selected on the basis of the respect for human rights and nationality, and calls upon the Transitional Authorities to cooperate with BINUCA and MISCA for these purposes;
“13. Calls on Member States, regional and international organizations, including the African Union, the United Nations and the European Union, to coordinate their assistance to the Transitional Authorities in their efforts towards reforming the security sector;
“Rule of Law
“14. Underlines the importance of strengthening the capacity of police, justice and correction institutions to uphold the rule of law and bring to justice perpetrators of violations of international humanitarian law, international human rights law and of human rights abuses;
“15. Further stresses the importance of strengthening support to the Transitional Authorities to enable them to address security challenges and extend state authority;
“Protection of natural resources
“16. Condemns the illegal exploitation of natural resources in the CAR which contributes to the perpetuation of the conflict, and underlines the importance of bringing an end to these illegal activities, including by applying the necessary pressure on the armed groups, traffickers and all other actors involved;
“Promotion and protection of Human Rights
“17. Strongly condemns the continued violations of international humanitarian law and the widespread human rights violations and abuses, perpetrated by armed groups, and specifically former Seleka elements, anti-Balaka elements and the LRA, that threaten the population and stresses that the perpetrators of such violations should be brought to justice;
“18. Urges the Transitional Authorities to ensure, without delay, that all perpetrators of violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law are held accountable;
“19. Expresses deep concern at the escalation of interreligious and intercommunal violence as well as violence targeting members of ethnic and religious groups and their leaders, and urges all parties and stakeholders in CAR, with the assistance of the international community, to work together in order to strengthen intercommunal and interfaith dialogues, to prevent further deterioration of the situation on the ground;
“20. Reiterates its demands that all armed groups, in particular former Seleka elements and anti-Balaka elements, prevent and end the recruitment and use of children, that all parties protect and consider as victims those children who have been released or otherwise separated from armed forces and armed groups, and emphasizes the need to pay particular attention to the protection, release and reintegration of all children associated with armed groups;
“21. Underscores the primary responsibility of the Transitional Authorities to protect the population, as well as to ensure the security and unity in its territory, and stresses their obligation to ensure respect for international humanitarian law, human rights law and refugee law;
“22. Calls upon all parties to armed conflict in the CAR, including former Seleka elements and anti-Balaka elements, to issue clear orders prohibiting all violations and abuses committed against children in violation of applicable international law, such as their recruitment and use, killing and maiming, abductions and attacks on schools and hospitals and further calls upon Transitional Authorities to make and implement specific commitments on timely investigation of alleged abuses in order to hold perpetrators accountable and to ensure that those responsible for such violations and abuses are excluded from the security sector;
“23. Calls upon all parties to armed conflict in the CAR, including former Seleka elements to issue clear orders against sexual violence, and further calls upon Transitional Authorities to make and implement specific commitments on timely investigation of alleged abuses in order to hold perpetrators accountable, in line with its resolutions 1960 (2010) and 2106 (2013), and to facilitate immediate access for victims of sexual violence to available services;
“24. Requests that the Secretary-General rapidly establish an international commission of inquiry for an initial period of one year, including experts in both international humanitarian law and human rights law, in order immediately to investigate reports of violations of international humanitarian law, international human rights law and abuses of human rights in CAR by all parties since 1 January 2013, to compile information, to help identify the perpetrators of such violations and abuses, point to their possible criminal responsibility and to help ensure that those responsible are held accountable, and calls on all parties to cooperate fully with such a commission;
“25. Further requests the Secretary-General to report to the Security Council on the findings of the commission of inquiry six months and one year after the adoption of this resolution;
“26. Further requests the Secretary-General in conjunction with the High Commissioner on Human Rights (HCHR) to take appropriate steps to increase the number of human rights monitors deployed in the CAR;
“27. Encourages Member States to take steps to strongly discourage their nationals from travelling to the CAR to participate in activities that contribute to undermining the peace, threatening the political process, or supporting the violation of human rights;
“Deployment of MISCA
“28. Authorizes the deployment of MISCA for a period of 12 months after the adoption of this resolution, to be reviewed six months after the adoption of this resolution, which shall take all necessary measures, consistent with the concept of operations adopted on 19 July 2013 and reviewed on 10 October 2013, to contribute to:
(i) the protection of civilians and the restoration of security and public order, through the use of appropriate measures;
(ii) the stabilization the country and the restoration of State authority over the whole territory of the country;
(iii)the creation of conditions conducive to the provision of humanitarian assistance to populations in need;
(iv) the DDR or DDRRR process led by the Transitional Authorities and coordinated by BINUCA;
(v) national and international efforts to reform and restructure the defence and security sectors led by the Transitional Authorities and coordinated by BINUCA;
“29. Welcomes the consultations held between the AU Commission and countries from the central African region and the support provided by the United Nations, and Member States to finalize all aspects of the transition from MICOPAX to MISCA, including the outcome of the meetings held in Addis Ababa from 7 to 10 October 2013;
“30. Requests the AU and ECCAS to ensure that the transfer of authority from MICOPAX to MISCA takes effect on 19 December 2013 and, in this regard, notes that the AU Commission has been called by the AU PSC to urgently and successfully transfer authority from MICOPAX to MISCA and further welcomes the appointment of the new leadership of MISCA;
“31. Emphasizes the need for strong coordination and information-sharing between BINUCA, the African Union-Regional Task Force (AU-RTF) and the MISCA in the context of their protection of civilians activities and counter-LRA operations;
“32. Requests the African Union, in close coordination with the Secretary-General and other international organizations and bilateral partners involved in the crisis, to report to the Security Council every 60 days on the deployment and activities of MISCA;
“33. Emphasizes the need for MISCA, and all military forces in CAR, while carrying out their mandate, to act in full respect of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of CAR and in full compliance with applicable international humanitarian law, human rights law and refugee law and recalls the importance of training in this regard;
“International support
“34. Welcomes contributions already made by ECCAS countries, calls upon African countries (MAR) to contribute to MISCA so it is able to fulfil its mandate, and further encourages Members States and regional organizations to cooperate closely with the African Union, ECCAS the United Nations, troop-contributing countries and other organizations and donors to this end;
“35. Stresses that all new African troops shall be integrated fully into the MISCA command and control structures, and shall operate in accordance with MISCA’s mandate as set out in paragraph 28 of this resolution;
“36. Calls upon the Transitional Authorities and all other parties in the CAR to cooperate fully with the deployment and operations of MISCA, in particular by ensuring its safety, security and freedom of movement with unhindered and immediate access throughout the territory of the CAR to enable it to fully carry out its mandate and further calls upon neighbouring countries of the CAR to take appropriate measures to support the implementation of MISCA mandate;
“UN Support
“37. Requests the Secretary-General to continue to enhance the provision of technical and expert advice to the African Union in the planning and deployment of MISCA as well as on the implementation of the MISCA Concept of Operations, on the establishment of MISCA mission headquarters, with the view to strengthening its command and control and administrative structures, improving communication and information technology infrastructure and providing necessary training;
“38. Further requests the Secretary-General to support MISCA in countering illicit proliferation of all arms and related materials of all types, in particular small arms to secure stockpiles of explosive weaponry, clear explosive remnants of war and conventional munitions disposal;
“39. Underscores the need to establish appropriate coordination mechanisms between BINUCA and MISCA;
“40. Underlines that the support outlined in paragraph 37 and 43 of this resolution must be in full compliance with the United Nations Human Rights and Due Diligence Policy on UN support to non-UN Security forces (HRDDP);
“Funding
“41. Underlines that regional organizations have the responsibility to secure human, financial, logistical and other resources for the work of their organizations including through contributions by their members and support from their partners;
“42. Calls upon Member States and international, regional and subregional organizations, to provide financial support and contributions in kind to MISCA to enable its deployment and implementation of its mandate and welcomes in this regard the willingness of the European Union to provide such financial support to MISCA through the mobilization of the African Peace Facility;
“43. Requests the Secretary-General to establish a trust fund for MISCA through which Member States and international, regional and subregional organizations can provide financial support to MISCA and further requests the Secretary-General to support, in coordination with the EU, the holding of a donors conference of Member States and relevant international, regional and subregional organizations which will be organized by the African Union to solicit contributions, notably to this trust fund, as soon as possible;
“44. Calls upon Member States to contribute generously and promptly to the new UN trust fund for MISCA, while noting that the existence of the trust fund does not preclude the conclusion of direct bilateral arrangements and further requests the African Union, in consultation with and the Secretary-General, to submit budgetary requests to this trust fund;
“45. Notes that the AU PSC communiqué of 13 November 2013 expresses its appreciation to bilateral and multilateral partners of the AU who are committed to providing support for the deployment and operation of MISCA;
“PKO
“46. Takes note of the position of the AU and ECCAS that MISCA may require eventual transformation into a United Nations peacekeeping operation and in this regard welcomes the Secretary-General’s intention to undertake the necessary preparations for the possible transformation of MISCA into a United Nations peacekeeping operation;
“47. Requests the Secretary-General to undertake expeditiously contingency preparations and planning for the possible transformation into a United Nations peacekeeping operation, stressing that a future decision of this Council would be required to establish such a mission;
“48. Requests the Secretary-General, in consultations with the AU, to report to the Security Council no later than three months from the adoption of this resolution with recommendations on the possible transformation of MISCA to a United Nations peacekeeping operation, including an assessment of progress towards meeting the appropriate conditions on the ground referred to in paragraph 45 of the Secretary-General report dated 15 November 2013;
“French forces
“49. Notes the AU PSC communiqué of 13 November 2013 welcoming the proposed strengthening of the French forces to better support MISCA and encouraging the AU Commission to work towards the establishment of an effective operational coordination between MISCA and the French forces;
“50. Authorizes the French forces in the CAR, within the limits of their capacities and areas of deployment, and for a temporary period, to take all necessary measures to support MISCA in the discharge of its mandate as provided by paragraph 28 above; requests France to report to the Council on the implementation of this mandate in the CAR and to coordinate its reporting with the reporting by the African Union referred to in paragraph 32 above and decides to review this mandate within six months after its commencement and calls upon the Transitional Authorities to cooperate fully with the deployment and operations of French forces, in particular by ensuring its safety, security and freedom of movement with unhindered and immediate access throughout the territory of CAR and further calls upon neighbouring countries of CAR to take appropriate measures to support the action of French forces;
“Humanitarian principles, access, funding and action
“51. Expresses its serious concern at the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the CAR and the restricted humanitarian access resulting from increased insecurity and attacks against humanitarian workers;
“52. Demands that all parties to the conflict, in particular the former Seleka, ensure the rapid, safe and unhindered access of humanitarian organizations and relief personnel and the timely delivery of humanitarian assistance to populations in need, while respecting the UN guiding principles of humanitarian assistance, including neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence in the provision of humanitarian assistance;
“53. Calls upon Member States to respond swiftly to the United Nations’ humanitarian appeals to meet the spiralling needs of people inside the CAR and refugees who have fled to neighbouring countries and encourages to this effect the swift implementation of humanitarian projects by UN and humanitarian organizations;
“Sanctions regime
“Arms embargo
“54. Decides that, for an initial period of one year from the date of adoption of this resolution, all Member States shall immediately take the necessary measures to prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale or transfer to the CAR, from or through their territories or by their nationals, or using their flag vessels or aircraft, of arms and related materiel of all types, including weapons and ammunition, military vehicles and equipment, paramilitary equipment, and spare parts for the aforementioned, and technical assistance, training, financial or other assistance, related to military activities or the provision, maintenance or use of any arms and related materiel, including the provision of armed mercenary personnel whether or not originating in their territories, and decides further that this measure shall not apply to:
(a) Supplies intended solely for the support of or use by MICOPAX, MISCA, BINUCA and its guard unit, the AU-RTF, and the French forces deployed in the CAR;
(b) Supplies of non-lethal military equipment intended solely for humanitarian or protective use, and related technical assistance or training, as approved in advance by the Committee established pursuant to paragraph 57 below;
(c) Protective clothing, including flak jackets and military helmets, temporarily exported to the CAR by United Nations personnel, representatives of the media and humanitarian and development workers and associated personnel, for their personal use only;
(d) Supplies of small arms and other related equipment intended solely for use in international patrols providing security in the Sangha River Tri-national Protected Area to defend against poaching, smuggling of ivory and arms, and other activities contrary to the national laws of CAR or CAR’s international legal obligations;
(e) Supplies of arms and other related lethal equipment to the CAR security forces, intended solely for support of or use in the CAR process of SSR, as approved in advance by the Committee; or
(f) Other sales or supply of arms and related materiel, or provision of assistance or personnel, as approved in advance by the Committee;
“55. Decides to authorize all Member States to, and that all Member States shall, upon discovery of items prohibited by paragraph 54 of this resolution, seize, register and dispose (such as through destruction, rendering inoperable, storage or transferring to a State other than the originating or destination States for disposal) items the supply, sale, transfer or export of which is prohibited by paragraph 54 of this resolution and decides further that all Member States shall cooperate in such efforts;
“Future measures
“56. Expresses its strong intent to swiftly consider imposing targeted measures, including travel bans and assets freezes, against individuals who act to undermine the peace, stability and security, including by engaging in acts that threaten or violate transitional agreements, or by engaging or providing, support for actions that threaten or impede the political process or fuel violence, including through violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict in violation of applicable international law, sexual violence, or supporting the illegal armed groups or criminal networks through the illicit exploitation of natural resources, including diamonds, in the CAR, or by violating the arms embargo established in paragraph 54;
“Sanctions Committee
“57. Decides to establish, in accordance with rule 28 of its provisional rules of procedure, a Committee of the Security Council consisting of all the members of the Council (herein “the Committee”), to undertake to following tasks:
(a) To monitor implementation of the measures imposed in paragraphs 54 and 55 above with a view to strengthening, facilitating and improving implementation of these measures by Member States;
(b) To review information regarding those individuals who may be engaging in the acts described in paragraph 54;
(c) To establish such guidelines as may be necessary to facilitate the implementation of the measures imposed above;
(d) To report within 60 days to the Security Council on its work and thereafter to report as deemed necessary by the Committee;
(e) To encourage a dialogue between the Committee and interested Member States, in particular those in the region, including by inviting representatives of such States to meet with the Committee to discuss implementation of the measures;
(f) To seek from all States whatever information it may consider useful regarding the actions taken by them to implement effectively the measures imposed above;
(g) To examine and take appropriate action on information regarding alleged violations or non-compliance with the measures contained in paragraphs 54 and 55;
“58. Calls upon all Member States to report to the Committee within 90 days from the adoption of this resolution on the steps they have taken with a view to implementing effectively paragraph 54;
“59. Requests the Secretary-General to create for an initial period of 13 months, in consultation with the Committee, and to make the necessary financial and security arrangements to support the work of the Panel, a group of up to five experts (“Panel of Experts”), under the direction of the Committee to carry out the following tasks:
(a) Assist the Committee in carrying out its mandate as specified in this resolution, including through providing the Committee with information relevant to the potential designation at a later stage of individuals who may be engaging in the activities described in paragraph 54 above;
(b) Gather, examine and analyse information from States, relevant United Nations bodies, regional organizations and other interested parties regarding the implementation of the measures decided in this resolution, in particular incidents of non-compliance;
(c) Provide to the Council, after discussion with the Committees, an update no later than 5 March 2014, an interim report by 5 July 2014 and a final report no later than 5 November 2014;
(d) To assist the Committee in refining and updating information on the list of individuals violating measures imposed by paragraph 54 of this resolution, including through the provision of biometric information and additional information for the publicly-available narrative summary of reasons for listing;
“60. Urges all parties and all Member States, as well as international, regional and subregional organizations to ensure cooperation with the Panel of experts and further urges all Member States involved to ensure the safety of the members of the Panel of experts and unhindered access, in particular to persons, documents and sites in order for the Panel of experts to execute its mandate;
“Continuous Review
“61. Affirms that it shall keep the situation in the CAR under continuous review and that it shall be prepared to review the appropriateness of the measures contained in this resolution, including the strengthening through additional measures, in particular the freezing of assets, modification, suspension or lifting of the measures, as may be needed at any time in light of the progress achieved in the stabilization of the country and compliance with this resolution;
“62. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.”
“Recalling its previous resolutions and statements on the Central African Republic (CAR), in particular resolution 2121 (2013),
“Reaffirming its strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and unity of the CAR, and recalling the importance of the principles of good-neighbourliness and regional cooperation,
“Expressing deep concern at the continuing deterioration of the security situation in the CAR, characterized by a total breakdown in law and order, the absence of the rule of law, inter-sectarian tensions and further expressing its grave concern about the consequences of instability in the CAR, on the central African region and beyond, and stressing in this regard the need for the international community to respond swiftly,
“Remaining seriously concerned by multiple and increasing violations of international humanitarian law and the widespread human rights violations and abuses, notably by former Seleka and militia groups, in particular those known as the “antibalaka”, including those involving extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and detention, torture, sexual violence against women and children, rape, recruitment and use of children and attacks against civilians,
“Underlying its particular concern at the new dynamic of violence and retaliation and the risk of it degenerating into a country-wide religious and ethnic divide, with the potential to spiral into an uncontrollable situation, including serious crimes under international law in particular war crimes and crimes against humanity, with serious regional implications,
“Further expressing concern at the insufficient capacity of the police, justice and corrections institutions to hold perpetrators of such violations and abuses accountable,
“Condemning all violence targeting members of ethnic and religious groups and their leaders and encouraging all parties and stakeholders in the CAR to support and contribute effectively, with the assistance of the international community, to intercommunal and interfaith dialogues, aiming at alleviating the current tensions on the ground,
“Reiterating that all perpetrators of such acts must be held accountable and that some of those acts may amount to crimes under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), to which the CAR is a State party, and further recalling the statement made by the Prosecutor of the ICC on 7 August 2013,
“Reiterating its condemnation of the devastation of natural heritage and noting that poaching and trafficking of wildlife are among the factors that fuel the crisis in the CAR,
“Noting the decision by the Kimberley Process to suspend the CAR,
“Welcoming the report of the Secretary-General dated 15 November 2013, on the situation in the CAR and on the planning of MISCA and taking note of the detailed options for international support to MISCA,
“Recalling that the Transitional Authorities have the primary responsibility to protect the civilian population,
“Further recalling its resolutions 1265 (1999), 1296 (2000), 1674 (2006), 1738 (2006) and 1894 (2009) on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, its resolutions 1612 (2005), 1882 (2009), 1998 (2011) and 2068 (2012) on Children and Armed Conflict and its resolutions 1325 (2000), 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), 1889 (2009), 1960 (2010), 2106 (2013) and 2122 (2013) on Women, Peace and Security and calling upon the parties in the CAR to engage with the Special Representative on Children and Armed Conflict and the Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict,
“Stressing the importance that the Transitional Authorities ensure women’s full and equal participation in all discussions pertinent to the resolution of the conflict and in all phases of electoral processes,
“Emphasizing the risk of the situation in the CAR providing a conducive environment for transnational criminal activity, such as that involving arms trafficking and the use of mercenaries as well as a potential breeding ground for radical networks,
“Recalling its resolution 2117 (2013) and expressing grave concern at the threat to peace and security in the CAR arising from the illicit transfer, destabilizing accumulation and misuse of small arms and light weapons,
“Expressing continued concern about the activity of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the CAR due in part to the prevailing security situation,
“Reiterating its serious concern at the worsening humanitarian situation in the CAR, strongly condemning the repeated attacks on UN staff and humanitarian personnel, goods, assets and premises and the looting of humanitarian aid which have resulted in obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid,
“Underscoring the importance of respecting the United Nations guiding principles of humanitarian assistance, including neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence in the provision of humanitarian assistance,
“Urging all parties to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and United Nations and its associated personnel and their assets,
“Recalling the letter of its President dated 29 October, approving the deployment of a guard unit to the CAR as part of BINUCA and taking note of the Secretary-General’s letter of 26 November 2013 highlighting progress towards the deployment of a guard unit within BINUCA, as well as the consent of the Transitional Authorities as expressed on 5 November for such a guard unit and welcoming in this regard the contribution of the Kingdom of Morocco to this unit,
“Welcoming the decision of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU‑PSC) on 19 July 2013 to authorize the deployment of the “African-led International Support Mission in the CAR” (referred to hereafter as MISCA), as well as the adoption of a new concept of operation on 10 October 2013,
“Reiterating its appreciation for the ongoing efforts of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and its Mediator regarding the CAR crisis, as well as the efforts of the African Union to resolve the crisis, and the efforts of the International Contact Group on the CAR,
“Welcoming the strong engagement of the European Union (EU) for the CAR, in particular the Foreign Affairs Council conclusions of 21 October 2013 and the commitment of the EU to contribute financially to the deployment of MISCA within the framework of the African Peace Facility, further welcoming ongoing discussions within the EU on possible additional support,
“Welcoming the efforts made by the Secretariat to expand and improve the roster of experts for the Security Council Subsidiary Organs Branch, bearing in mind the guidance provided by the Note of the President (S/2006/997),
“Taking note of the declaration adopted by the International Contact Group on the CAR at its third meeting held in Bangui on 8 November 2013,
“Taking note of the AU PSC Communiqué of 13 November 2013, which urges the Security Council to quickly adopt a resolution endorsing and authorizing the deployment of MISCA,
“Taking note of the letter dated 22 November 2013 from the Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, stressing the importance of ensuring that peacebuilding needs in CAR are addressed immediately following stabilization of the security and humanitarian situation and, in this regard, emphasizing the Commission’s role in mobilizing and sustaining the attention and commitment of partners and actors in support of related United Nations and regional efforts,
“Taking note of the letter by the CAR authorities of 20 November 2013 requesting the support to MISCA by French forces,
“Underlining the importance of all subregional, regional and international organizations acting in the CAR improving their coordination with one another,
“Determining that the situation in the CAR constitutes a threat to international peace and security,
“Acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations,
“Political process
“1. Underlines its support for the Libreville Agreements of 11 January 2013, the N’Djamena Declaration of 18 April 2013, the Brazzaville Appeal of 3 May 2013 and the declaration adopted by the International Contact Group on the CAR at its third meeting held in Bangui on 8 November 2013;
“2. Reiterates that, according to the political agreement signed in Libreville, the Prime Minister is the Head of the Government of National Unity which is in charge of implementing the priorities defined in article 5 of this agreement and urges all parties to respect this agreement;
“3. Further reiterates that, in accordance with the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, the Libreville Agreements, the relevant ECCAS decisions and the Constitutional Charter for the Transition, the Head of Transition, the Prime Minister, the President of the National Transition Council (NTC), the Ministers and members of the NTC bureau cannot participate in the elections intended to restore the constitutional order;
“4. Urges the Transitional Authorities to take all appropriate steps for immediate disarmament, cantonment and dismantling of all armed groups, throughout the whole territory of the country, consistent with international standards;
“5. Demands the swift implementation of transitional arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 above, which shall lead to the holding of free, fair and transparent presidential and legislative elections 18 months after the beginning of the transition period as defined in article 102 of the Transitional Charter which took effect on 18 August 2013, and called for by the N’Djamena Declaration;
“6. Deplores that the Transitional Authorities have made only limited progress towards the implementation of key elements of the Transitional Framework, notably regarding the organization of elections by February 2015; and in this regard, calls upon the Transitional Authorities to swiftly put in place the National Authority for the elections which will enable the United Nations to identify the technical requirements for the successful organization of elections;
“7. Urges the Transitional Authorities to implement the “Republican Pact” signed by the transitional government on 7 November 2013, under the aegis of the Sant’Egidio, as a credible framework to promote an inclusive national dialogue between all political, social and religious parties of the country, and requests the Secretary-General, through his Special Representative for the CAR, to take appropriate steps to assist the Transitional Authorities to enhance their mediation capacity and to facilitate and strengthen such a dialogue;
“8. Expresses its intention to closely monitor the management of the Transition and commends the role of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and the ECCAS mediator;
“9. Expresses its support for BINUCA’s critical role in helping to restore the constitutional order and supporting the ongoing political process in the implementation of the Libreville agreement and the N’Djamena road map and the electoral process;
“10. Decides that any attempt to delay, impede or violate the transitional arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 above shall be considered as an impediment to the peace process and could lead to the imposition of appropriate measures defined in paragraph 56 below;
“DDR/SSR
“11. Urges Transitional Authorities to develop and implement disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) or disarmament, demobilization, repatriation, reintegration and resettlement (DDRRR) programmes including for former Seleka elements who will not be integrated into the security forces and children associated with armed forces and groups;
“12. Further urges the Transitional Authorities to develop and to implement a comprehensive and nationally owned Security Sector Reform (SSR) programme, which includes appropriate vetting procedures to reconstitute professional, balanced and representative CAR security forces selected on the basis of the respect for human rights and nationality, and calls upon the Transitional Authorities to cooperate with BINUCA and MISCA for these purposes;
“13. Calls on Member States, regional and international organizations, including the African Union, the United Nations and the European Union, to coordinate their assistance to the Transitional Authorities in their efforts towards reforming the security sector;
“Rule of Law
“14. Underlines the importance of strengthening the capacity of police, justice and correction institutions to uphold the rule of law and bring to justice perpetrators of violations of international humanitarian law, international human rights law and of human rights abuses;
“15. Further stresses the importance of strengthening support to the Transitional Authorities to enable them to address security challenges and extend state authority;
“Protection of natural resources
“16. Condemns the illegal exploitation of natural resources in the CAR which contributes to the perpetuation of the conflict, and underlines the importance of bringing an end to these illegal activities, including by applying the necessary pressure on the armed groups, traffickers and all other actors involved;
“Promotion and protection of Human Rights
“17. Strongly condemns the continued violations of international humanitarian law and the widespread human rights violations and abuses, perpetrated by armed groups, and specifically former Seleka elements, anti-Balaka elements and the LRA, that threaten the population and stresses that the perpetrators of such violations should be brought to justice;
“18. Urges the Transitional Authorities to ensure, without delay, that all perpetrators of violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law are held accountable;
“19. Expresses deep concern at the escalation of interreligious and intercommunal violence as well as violence targeting members of ethnic and religious groups and their leaders, and urges all parties and stakeholders in CAR, with the assistance of the international community, to work together in order to strengthen intercommunal and interfaith dialogues, to prevent further deterioration of the situation on the ground;
“20. Reiterates its demands that all armed groups, in particular former Seleka elements and anti-Balaka elements, prevent and end the recruitment and use of children, that all parties protect and consider as victims those children who have been released or otherwise separated from armed forces and armed groups, and emphasizes the need to pay particular attention to the protection, release and reintegration of all children associated with armed groups;
“21. Underscores the primary responsibility of the Transitional Authorities to protect the population, as well as to ensure the security and unity in its territory, and stresses their obligation to ensure respect for international humanitarian law, human rights law and refugee law;
“22. Calls upon all parties to armed conflict in the CAR, including former Seleka elements and anti-Balaka elements, to issue clear orders prohibiting all violations and abuses committed against children in violation of applicable international law, such as their recruitment and use, killing and maiming, abductions and attacks on schools and hospitals and further calls upon Transitional Authorities to make and implement specific commitments on timely investigation of alleged abuses in order to hold perpetrators accountable and to ensure that those responsible for such violations and abuses are excluded from the security sector;
“23. Calls upon all parties to armed conflict in the CAR, including former Seleka elements to issue clear orders against sexual violence, and further calls upon Transitional Authorities to make and implement specific commitments on timely investigation of alleged abuses in order to hold perpetrators accountable, in line with its resolutions 1960 (2010) and 2106 (2013), and to facilitate immediate access for victims of sexual violence to available services;
“24. Requests that the Secretary-General rapidly establish an international commission of inquiry for an initial period of one year, including experts in both international humanitarian law and human rights law, in order immediately to investigate reports of violations of international humanitarian law, international human rights law and abuses of human rights in CAR by all parties since 1 January 2013, to compile information, to help identify the perpetrators of such violations and abuses, point to their possible criminal responsibility and to help ensure that those responsible are held accountable, and calls on all parties to cooperate fully with such a commission;
“25. Further requests the Secretary-General to report to the Security Council on the findings of the commission of inquiry six months and one year after the adoption of this resolution;
“26. Further requests the Secretary-General in conjunction with the High Commissioner on Human Rights (HCHR) to take appropriate steps to increase the number of human rights monitors deployed in the CAR;
“27. Encourages Member States to take steps to strongly discourage their nationals from travelling to the CAR to participate in activities that contribute to undermining the peace, threatening the political process, or supporting the violation of human rights;
“Deployment of MISCA
“28. Authorizes the deployment of MISCA for a period of 12 months after the adoption of this resolution, to be reviewed six months after the adoption of this resolution, which shall take all necessary measures, consistent with the concept of operations adopted on 19 July 2013 and reviewed on 10 October 2013, to contribute to:
(i) the protection of civilians and the restoration of security and public order, through the use of appropriate measures;
(ii) the stabilization the country and the restoration of State authority over the whole territory of the country;
(iii)the creation of conditions conducive to the provision of humanitarian assistance to populations in need;
(iv) the DDR or DDRRR process led by the Transitional Authorities and coordinated by BINUCA;
(v) national and international efforts to reform and restructure the defence and security sectors led by the Transitional Authorities and coordinated by BINUCA;
“29. Welcomes the consultations held between the AU Commission and countries from the central African region and the support provided by the United Nations, and Member States to finalize all aspects of the transition from MICOPAX to MISCA, including the outcome of the meetings held in Addis Ababa from 7 to 10 October 2013;
“30. Requests the AU and ECCAS to ensure that the transfer of authority from MICOPAX to MISCA takes effect on 19 December 2013 and, in this regard, notes that the AU Commission has been called by the AU PSC to urgently and successfully transfer authority from MICOPAX to MISCA and further welcomes the appointment of the new leadership of MISCA;
“31. Emphasizes the need for strong coordination and information-sharing between BINUCA, the African Union-Regional Task Force (AU-RTF) and the MISCA in the context of their protection of civilians activities and counter-LRA operations;
“32. Requests the African Union, in close coordination with the Secretary-General and other international organizations and bilateral partners involved in the crisis, to report to the Security Council every 60 days on the deployment and activities of MISCA;
“33. Emphasizes the need for MISCA, and all military forces in CAR, while carrying out their mandate, to act in full respect of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of CAR and in full compliance with applicable international humanitarian law, human rights law and refugee law and recalls the importance of training in this regard;
“International support
“34. Welcomes contributions already made by ECCAS countries, calls upon African countries (MAR) to contribute to MISCA so it is able to fulfil its mandate, and further encourages Members States and regional organizations to cooperate closely with the African Union, ECCAS the United Nations, troop-contributing countries and other organizations and donors to this end;
“35. Stresses that all new African troops shall be integrated fully into the MISCA command and control structures, and shall operate in accordance with MISCA’s mandate as set out in paragraph 28 of this resolution;
“36. Calls upon the Transitional Authorities and all other parties in the CAR to cooperate fully with the deployment and operations of MISCA, in particular by ensuring its safety, security and freedom of movement with unhindered and immediate access throughout the territory of the CAR to enable it to fully carry out its mandate and further calls upon neighbouring countries of the CAR to take appropriate measures to support the implementation of MISCA mandate;
“UN Support
“37. Requests the Secretary-General to continue to enhance the provision of technical and expert advice to the African Union in the planning and deployment of MISCA as well as on the implementation of the MISCA Concept of Operations, on the establishment of MISCA mission headquarters, with the view to strengthening its command and control and administrative structures, improving communication and information technology infrastructure and providing necessary training;
“38. Further requests the Secretary-General to support MISCA in countering illicit proliferation of all arms and related materials of all types, in particular small arms to secure stockpiles of explosive weaponry, clear explosive remnants of war and conventional munitions disposal;
“39. Underscores the need to establish appropriate coordination mechanisms between BINUCA and MISCA;
“40. Underlines that the support outlined in paragraph 37 and 43 of this resolution must be in full compliance with the United Nations Human Rights and Due Diligence Policy on UN support to non-UN Security forces (HRDDP);
“Funding
“41. Underlines that regional organizations have the responsibility to secure human, financial, logistical and other resources for the work of their organizations including through contributions by their members and support from their partners;
“42. Calls upon Member States and international, regional and subregional organizations, to provide financial support and contributions in kind to MISCA to enable its deployment and implementation of its mandate and welcomes in this regard the willingness of the European Union to provide such financial support to MISCA through the mobilization of the African Peace Facility;
“43. Requests the Secretary-General to establish a trust fund for MISCA through which Member States and international, regional and subregional organizations can provide financial support to MISCA and further requests the Secretary-General to support, in coordination with the EU, the holding of a donors conference of Member States and relevant international, regional and subregional organizations which will be organized by the African Union to solicit contributions, notably to this trust fund, as soon as possible;
“44. Calls upon Member States to contribute generously and promptly to the new UN trust fund for MISCA, while noting that the existence of the trust fund does not preclude the conclusion of direct bilateral arrangements and further requests the African Union, in consultation with and the Secretary-General, to submit budgetary requests to this trust fund;
“45. Notes that the AU PSC communiqué of 13 November 2013 expresses its appreciation to bilateral and multilateral partners of the AU who are committed to providing support for the deployment and operation of MISCA;
“PKO
“46. Takes note of the position of the AU and ECCAS that MISCA may require eventual transformation into a United Nations peacekeeping operation and in this regard welcomes the Secretary-General’s intention to undertake the necessary preparations for the possible transformation of MISCA into a United Nations peacekeeping operation;
“47. Requests the Secretary-General to undertake expeditiously contingency preparations and planning for the possible transformation into a United Nations peacekeeping operation, stressing that a future decision of this Council would be required to establish such a mission;
“48. Requests the Secretary-General, in consultations with the AU, to report to the Security Council no later than three months from the adoption of this resolution with recommendations on the possible transformation of MISCA to a United Nations peacekeeping operation, including an assessment of progress towards meeting the appropriate conditions on the ground referred to in paragraph 45 of the Secretary-General report dated 15 November 2013;
“French forces
“49. Notes the AU PSC communiqué of 13 November 2013 welcoming the proposed strengthening of the French forces to better support MISCA and encouraging the AU Commission to work towards the establishment of an effective operational coordination between MISCA and the French forces;
“50. Authorizes the French forces in the CAR, within the limits of their capacities and areas of deployment, and for a temporary period, to take all necessary measures to support MISCA in the discharge of its mandate as provided by paragraph 28 above; requests France to report to the Council on the implementation of this mandate in the CAR and to coordinate its reporting with the reporting by the African Union referred to in paragraph 32 above and decides to review this mandate within six months after its commencement and calls upon the Transitional Authorities to cooperate fully with the deployment and operations of French forces, in particular by ensuring its safety, security and freedom of movement with unhindered and immediate access throughout the territory of CAR and further calls upon neighbouring countries of CAR to take appropriate measures to support the action of French forces;
“Humanitarian principles, access, funding and action
“51. Expresses its serious concern at the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the CAR and the restricted humanitarian access resulting from increased insecurity and attacks against humanitarian workers;
“52. Demands that all parties to the conflict, in particular the former Seleka, ensure the rapid, safe and unhindered access of humanitarian organizations and relief personnel and the timely delivery of humanitarian assistance to populations in need, while respecting the UN guiding principles of humanitarian assistance, including neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence in the provision of humanitarian assistance;
“53. Calls upon Member States to respond swiftly to the United Nations’ humanitarian appeals to meet the spiralling needs of people inside the CAR and refugees who have fled to neighbouring countries and encourages to this effect the swift implementation of humanitarian projects by UN and humanitarian organizations;
“Sanctions regime
“Arms embargo
“54. Decides that, for an initial period of one year from the date of adoption of this resolution, all Member States shall immediately take the necessary measures to prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale or transfer to the CAR, from or through their territories or by their nationals, or using their flag vessels or aircraft, of arms and related materiel of all types, including weapons and ammunition, military vehicles and equipment, paramilitary equipment, and spare parts for the aforementioned, and technical assistance, training, financial or other assistance, related to military activities or the provision, maintenance or use of any arms and related materiel, including the provision of armed mercenary personnel whether or not originating in their territories, and decides further that this measure shall not apply to:
(a) Supplies intended solely for the support of or use by MICOPAX, MISCA, BINUCA and its guard unit, the AU-RTF, and the French forces deployed in the CAR;
(b) Supplies of non-lethal military equipment intended solely for humanitarian or protective use, and related technical assistance or training, as approved in advance by the Committee established pursuant to paragraph 57 below;
(c) Protective clothing, including flak jackets and military helmets, temporarily exported to the CAR by United Nations personnel, representatives of the media and humanitarian and development workers and associated personnel, for their personal use only;
(d) Supplies of small arms and other related equipment intended solely for use in international patrols providing security in the Sangha River Tri-national Protected Area to defend against poaching, smuggling of ivory and arms, and other activities contrary to the national laws of CAR or CAR’s international legal obligations;
(e) Supplies of arms and other related lethal equipment to the CAR security forces, intended solely for support of or use in the CAR process of SSR, as approved in advance by the Committee; or
(f) Other sales or supply of arms and related materiel, or provision of assistance or personnel, as approved in advance by the Committee;
“55. Decides to authorize all Member States to, and that all Member States shall, upon discovery of items prohibited by paragraph 54 of this resolution, seize, register and dispose (such as through destruction, rendering inoperable, storage or transferring to a State other than the originating or destination States for disposal) items the supply, sale, transfer or export of which is prohibited by paragraph 54 of this resolution and decides further that all Member States shall cooperate in such efforts;
“Future measures
“56. Expresses its strong intent to swiftly consider imposing targeted measures, including travel bans and assets freezes, against individuals who act to undermine the peace, stability and security, including by engaging in acts that threaten or violate transitional agreements, or by engaging or providing, support for actions that threaten or impede the political process or fuel violence, including through violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict in violation of applicable international law, sexual violence, or supporting the illegal armed groups or criminal networks through the illicit exploitation of natural resources, including diamonds, in the CAR, or by violating the arms embargo established in paragraph 54;
“Sanctions Committee
“57. Decides to establish, in accordance with rule 28 of its provisional rules of procedure, a Committee of the Security Council consisting of all the members of the Council (herein “the Committee”), to undertake to following tasks:
(a) To monitor implementation of the measures imposed in paragraphs 54 and 55 above with a view to strengthening, facilitating and improving implementation of these measures by Member States;
(b) To review information regarding those individuals who may be engaging in the acts described in paragraph 54;
(c) To establish such guidelines as may be necessary to facilitate the implementation of the measures imposed above;
(d) To report within 60 days to the Security Council on its work and thereafter to report as deemed necessary by the Committee;
(e) To encourage a dialogue between the Committee and interested Member States, in particular those in the region, including by inviting representatives of such States to meet with the Committee to discuss implementation of the measures;
(f) To seek from all States whatever information it may consider useful regarding the actions taken by them to implement effectively the measures imposed above;
(g) To examine and take appropriate action on information regarding alleged violations or non-compliance with the measures contained in paragraphs 54 and 55;
“58. Calls upon all Member States to report to the Committee within 90 days from the adoption of this resolution on the steps they have taken with a view to implementing effectively paragraph 54;
“59. Requests the Secretary-General to create for an initial period of 13 months, in consultation with the Committee, and to make the necessary financial and security arrangements to support the work of the Panel, a group of up to five experts (“Panel of Experts”), under the direction of the Committee to carry out the following tasks:
(a) Assist the Committee in carrying out its mandate as specified in this resolution, including through providing the Committee with information relevant to the potential designation at a later stage of individuals who may be engaging in the activities described in paragraph 54 above;
(b) Gather, examine and analyse information from States, relevant United Nations bodies, regional organizations and other interested parties regarding the implementation of the measures decided in this resolution, in particular incidents of non-compliance;
(c) Provide to the Council, after discussion with the Committees, an update no later than 5 March 2014, an interim report by 5 July 2014 and a final report no later than 5 November 2014;
(d) To assist the Committee in refining and updating information on the list of individuals violating measures imposed by paragraph 54 of this resolution, including through the provision of biometric information and additional information for the publicly-available narrative summary of reasons for listing;
“60. Urges all parties and all Member States, as well as international, regional and subregional organizations to ensure cooperation with the Panel of experts and further urges all Member States involved to ensure the safety of the members of the Panel of experts and unhindered access, in particular to persons, documents and sites in order for the Panel of experts to execute its mandate;
“Continuous Review
“61. Affirms that it shall keep the situation in the CAR under continuous review and that it shall be prepared to review the appropriateness of the measures contained in this resolution, including the strengthening through additional measures, in particular the freezing of assets, modification, suspension or lifting of the measures, as may be needed at any time in light of the progress achieved in the stabilization of the country and compliance with this resolution;
“62. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.”
French troops begin disarming CAR fighters
The deployment gained momentum after a resolution sponsored by France was passed last week to pave the way for military action. The troops have the mandate to use "appropriate measures" to protect civilians.
French troops begin disarming CAR fighters - Africa - Al Jazeera English
French troops begin disarming CAR fighters - Africa - Al Jazeera English
Sunday 8 December 2013
Saturday 7 December 2013
Ethnic clashes in Kenya leave dozens dead
The arid northern region of Kenya is also awash with guns due to its proximity to unstable neighbours such as Somalia, where al-Qaeda-linked rebels have been fighting to topple the government, and Ethiopia, where rebel fighters have made sporadic incursions into Kenya
Ethnic clashes in Kenya leave dozens dead - Africa - Al Jazeera English
US reassures Gulf allies wary over Iran - Middle East
The Pentagon "will not make any adjustments to its forces in the region – or to its military planning – as a result of the interim agreement with Iran," he added.
US reassures Gulf allies wary over Iran - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Al-Qaeda says it shot down Syria drone
Jabhat al-Nusra, al-Qaeda's local branch in Syria, has sent Al Jazeera exclusive footage of what it said was a drone it shot down while it was flying over Aleppo, saying it was the first operation of its kind for the group.
The group said the government of President Bashar al-Assad has started deploying drones in its fight against the rebels, especially since opposition fighters escalated their assault on the northern city.
Al-Qaeda says it shot down Syria drone - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Egyptian women protesters freed
Egyptian authorities have released 21 women and girls convicted for staging a street protest after an appeal court reduced their harsh penalties, including prison terms of 11 years, to suspended sentences.
The initial verdict handed down late last month caused an international and domestic outcry.
Egyptian women protesters freed - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Hospital attacked in Central African Republic
France increases troop presence to 1,600 after almost 400 people are killed in three days of violence.
Hospital attacked in Central African Republic - Africa - Al Jazeera English
Friday 6 December 2013
OMC conclui primeiro acordo comercial global em 18 anos
O pacote de 10 textos é dividido em três temas: desburocratização do
comércio, agricultura e promoção do desenvolvimento dos países pobres.
As estimativas otimistas calculam que o acordo pode gerar um incremento
de US$ 1 trilhão do comércio global - se as medidas para tornar portos e
aduanas mais eficientes foram totalmente implementadas.
"É um acordo ambicioso. Se não fosse, não teria sido tão difícil de fechar", disse o brasileiro Roberto Azevêdo, diretor geral da OMC, à Folha.
http://www1.folha.uol.com.br/mercado/2013/12/1382377-omc-conclui-primeiro-acordo-comercial-global-em-18-anos.shtml
"É um acordo ambicioso. Se não fosse, não teria sido tão difícil de fechar", disse o brasileiro Roberto Azevêdo, diretor geral da OMC, à Folha.
http://www1.folha.uol.com.br/mercado/2013/12/1382377-omc-conclui-primeiro-acordo-comercial-global-em-18-anos.shtml
Thursday 5 December 2013
Hezbollah says commander killed in Beirut, blames Israel
Hassan al-Laqqis was shot in the head from close range by a silenced gun as he arrived home at around midnight in the Hadath district of Beirut, a source close to Hezbollah said.
Israel, which fought a 34-day war with Hezbollah in 2006, denied any role in the shooting and hinted that the motive may have been Hezbollah's military support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his war with Sunni Muslim rebels.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/04/us-lebanon-hezbollah-killing-idUSBRE9B306S20131204
Chemical experts eye port to load Syria toxins onto U.S. ship
The OPCW said on Saturday the United States
had started modifying a U.S. naval vessel to be able to destroy Syria's
500 tons of chemicals, including actual nerve agents - neutralizing them
offshore with other chemicals in a process known as hydrolysis.
Italy, Norway and Denmark have offered to transport Syria's chemicals from the northern Syrian port of Latakia with military escorts. The chemicals would then be transferred to the U.S. ship at another port.
"We're still awaiting confirmation by a member state that a port is available for trans-loading, so it will be trans-loading in a port," Kaag told reporters after briefing the council.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/04/us-syria-crisis-chemicals-idUSBRE9B31BD20131204
Italy, Norway and Denmark have offered to transport Syria's chemicals from the northern Syrian port of Latakia with military escorts. The chemicals would then be transferred to the U.S. ship at another port.
"We're still awaiting confirmation by a member state that a port is available for trans-loading, so it will be trans-loading in a port," Kaag told reporters after briefing the council.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/04/us-syria-crisis-chemicals-idUSBRE9B31BD20131204
Brazil's plan for Indian-farmer land disputes faces opposition
The proposal from the Justice Ministry gives
Indian affairs agency Funai the option to consult other branches of
national and local governments before proposing new Indian territories.
Farmers had wanted Funai, which they say threatens private property, to
seek other opinions on new territories.Brazil's 1988 constitution gives Indians the right to inhabit "the lands they traditionally occupy." The government asked Funai to identify ancestral land through anthropological studies and gave the Justice Ministry the job of approving Indian territories.
Brazil has an estimated 897,000 indigenous people, making up about 0.4 percent of the country's overall population, and about 13 percent of Brazil has been set aside for them. Most of that land is in the remote Amazon jungle but more recently Funai has proposed creating or expanding Indian territories on land used to produce soy, beef, sugar and other commodities.
Late last year the federal government evicted some 7,000 farm families and bulldozed a small town in order to return a slice of central Brazil to Xavante Indians who had been removed by a military dictatorship in the 1960s.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/05/us-brazil-indians-proposal-idUSBRE9B40P220131205
Hague court judges reject Kenyatta's bid to stop trial
Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto face
separate charges of stoking ethnic violence after the country's 2007
elections, when 1,200 people died. The cases have become a rallying
point for the ICC's critics, including many other Africa leaders, who
accuse it of singling the continent out for prosecution.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/05/us-kenya-icc-kenyatta-idUSBRE9B40PL20131205
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/05/us-kenya-icc-kenyatta-idUSBRE9B40PL20131205
France to launch military operation in CAR immediately: Hollande
President
Francois Hollande said a French-led military operation to protect
civilians in the Central African Republic would be launched immediately
following authorization from the U.N. Security Council.
"I have decided to act immediately, in other words, this evening," Hollande told journalists.
He added that the number of French troops present in the poor landlocked nation, currently 600, would be doubled as early as this evening thanks to reinforcements from neighboring states.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/05/us-france-car-idUSBRE9B40YQ20131205
"I have decided to act immediately, in other words, this evening," Hollande told journalists.
He added that the number of French troops present in the poor landlocked nation, currently 600, would be doubled as early as this evening thanks to reinforcements from neighboring states.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/05/us-france-car-idUSBRE9B40YQ20131205
Aide to N. Korean leader's ousted uncle seeks asylum in South-media
A man who managed
funds for the ousted uncle of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has fled
the isolated country and is seeking asylum in South Korea, local media said on Friday.
The aide is currently being protected by South Korean officials in a secret location in China, cable news network YTN said, citing a source familiar with the matter.
If true, the defection would be the first instance in years of a significant insider from the Pyongyang regime switching sides.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/06/us-korea-north-defector-idUSBRE9B504F20131206
The aide is currently being protected by South Korean officials in a secret location in China, cable news network YTN said, citing a source familiar with the matter.
If true, the defection would be the first instance in years of a significant insider from the Pyongyang regime switching sides.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/06/us-korea-north-defector-idUSBRE9B504F20131206
EU continues training Somali troops
Soldiers from the European Union will soon head to the Somali capital Mogadishu to continue training regional forces.
Nearly 4,000 Somali troops have already been put through their paces in neighbouring Uganda over the past three years.
EU continues training Somali troops - Africa - Al Jazeera English
Nearly 4,000 Somali troops have already been put through their paces in neighbouring Uganda over the past three years.
EU continues training Somali troops - Africa - Al Jazeera English
Scores killed in Yemeni ministry attack
At least 52 people, including doctors and nurses, have been killed in a suicide bombing that targeted a hospital inside Yemen's defence ministry complex in the heart of the capital Sanaa, according to Yemen Higher Security Committee.
Thursday's assault, which was followed by a gun battle, also left 167 people injured, the defence ministry said.
Scores killed in Yemeni ministry attack - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Thursday's assault, which was followed by a gun battle, also left 167 people injured, the defence ministry said.
Scores killed in Yemeni ministry attack - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Suicide attack rocks Yemen's defence ministry
At least 30 feared dead as suicide bombing rocks the defence ministry complex in the capital, followed by firefight.
Suicide attack rocks Yemen's defence ministry - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
UN passes resolution on CAR military action
Security Council passes French-sponsored resolution amid reports that 100 people have been killed in renewed violence.
UN passes resolution on CAR military action - Africa - Al Jazeera English
Wednesday 4 December 2013
Bob Dylan investigated in France for 'racist' comments
Culture Minister Aurelie Filippetti said that, for French people, he embodied a "subversive cultural force that can change people and the world."
Bob Dylan investigated in France for 'racist' comments - World Israel News | Haaretz
Bob Dylan investigated in France for 'racist' comments - World Israel News | Haaretz
Russia: Iran deal will eliminate need for missile defense in Europe
Is there any limit for hypocrisy?
It seems Russia is trying to go back to some cold war arguments such as invitation, no need, no evidence, no harm..
Russia: Iran deal will eliminate need for missile defense in Europe - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
It seems Russia is trying to go back to some cold war arguments such as invitation, no need, no evidence, no harm..
Russia: Iran deal will eliminate need for missile defense in Europe - Middle East Israel News | Haaretz
Tuesday 3 December 2013
Europe rights court hears of CIA prisons
The secret network of black site prisons across Europe that the CIA used to interrogate 'terror' suspects has had a rare public hearing at Europe's human rights court.
Lawyers for two suspects, currently held by the US in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, accuse Poland of human rights abuses.
They told the European Court of Human Rights on Tuesday that the two fell victim to the CIA's program to kidnap suspects and transfer them to third countries.
They also allege they were tortured in a remote Polish prison.
Europe rights court hears of CIA prisons - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Sunday 1 December 2013
Over 300,000 defy protest ban in Ukraine
A protest by about 300,000 Ukrainians angered by their government's decision to freeze integration with the West turned violent, when a group of demonstrators besieged the president's office and police drove them back with truncheons, tear gas and flash grenades.
Over 300,000 defy protest ban in Ukraine - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Friday 29 November 2013
Nigeria: Boko Haram Abducts Women, Recruits Children
(Abuja, November 29, 2013) – Boko Haram has abducted scores of women
and girls, used children as young as 12 in hostilities, and killed
hundreds of people in recent attacks, Human Rights Watch said today. The
Nigerian government,
meanwhile, has failed to account for hundreds of men and boys whom
security forces have rounded up and forcibly disappeared during Boko
Haram’s four-year insurgency.
The rise of an anti-Boko Haram group allied with Nigerian security forces, the so-called Civilian Joint Task Force, has added a worrisome new dimension to the violence. Civilian Joint Task Force members inform security forces about presumed local Boko Haram activity; the Islamist group then retaliates against both the neighborhood vigilante group and the broader community.
http://www.hrw.org/news/2013/11/29/nigeria-boko-haram-abducts-women-recruits-children
The rise of an anti-Boko Haram group allied with Nigerian security forces, the so-called Civilian Joint Task Force, has added a worrisome new dimension to the violence. Civilian Joint Task Force members inform security forces about presumed local Boko Haram activity; the Islamist group then retaliates against both the neighborhood vigilante group and the broader community.
http://www.hrw.org/news/2013/11/29/nigeria-boko-haram-abducts-women-recruits-children
Thursday 28 November 2013
France's new African war
IS FRANCE about to embark on another African military intervention?
Things certainly seem to be moving very fast in Paris. Just over ten
months after it dispatched soldiers and fighter jets to push back an
Islamist incursion in Mali, the French are putting things into place in
order to launch another operation, possibly as early as next week, this
time in the Central African Republic (CAR).
This is Laurent Fabius, the foreign minister, making the case for intervention in Le Figaro, a newspaper, on November 25th. He described a “collapsed state” in which violence, rape and executions by armed gangs was turning into inter-religious hatred. Intervention always had a cost. But, he wrote: “We don’t want tomorrow to pay the far higher price of inaction”.
http://www.economist.com/blogs/charlemagne/2013/11/french-foreign-policy
This is Laurent Fabius, the foreign minister, making the case for intervention in Le Figaro, a newspaper, on November 25th. He described a “collapsed state” in which violence, rape and executions by armed gangs was turning into inter-religious hatred. Intervention always had a cost. But, he wrote: “We don’t want tomorrow to pay the far higher price of inaction”.
http://www.economist.com/blogs/charlemagne/2013/11/french-foreign-policy
China fighter jets fly through disputed zone
Beijing's "defensive measure" raises stakes in standoff with US, South Korea and Japan over the disputed airspace.
China fighter jets fly through disputed zone - Asia-Pacific - Al Jazeera English
China fighter jets fly through disputed zone - Asia-Pacific - Al Jazeera English
Tuesday 26 November 2013
Monday 25 November 2013
Hundreds deported to Haiti from Dominican Republic
At least 350 people have been expelled to Haiti from The Dominican Republic, or have fled of their own accord, after an elderly Dominican couple was slain in an apparent burglary near the border between the two countries.
Hundreds deported to Haiti from DR - Americas - Al Jazeera English
Hundreds deported to Haiti from DR - Americas - Al Jazeera English
Britain warns Israel against actions that undermine Iran nuclear deal
So what kind of actions do they mean? Building houses or keeping the bomb? Things are so politicized that politicians loose their sense of distinction between real threats to peace and simbology of Palestinian narrative that includes everything from house building to air strikes against unmarmed civilians as the same issue. Now it seems the British also believe that Israel may undermine something that is still nothing.
Britain's Hague warns Israel against actions that undermine Iran nuclear deal - Diplomacy and Defense Israel News | Haaretz
Saturday 23 November 2013
Egypt expels Turkey's ambassador
Turkey has emerged as one of the fiercest international critics of the overthrow of Egypt's Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in July, calling it an "unacceptable coup".
Since Morsi's election to the president's office in June 2012, his Muslim Brotherhood organisation has forged close ties with the governing AK Party of Erdogan.
Turkey was "attempting to influence public opinion against Egyptian interests, supported meetings of organisations that seek to create instability in the country", Badr Abdelatty, Egyptian Foreign Ministry spokesman, said on Saturday.
Egypt expels Turkey's ambassador - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Since Morsi's election to the president's office in June 2012, his Muslim Brotherhood organisation has forged close ties with the governing AK Party of Erdogan.
Turkey was "attempting to influence public opinion against Egyptian interests, supported meetings of organisations that seek to create instability in the country", Badr Abdelatty, Egyptian Foreign Ministry spokesman, said on Saturday.
Egypt expels Turkey's ambassador - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Friday 22 November 2013
Djihadistes britanniques tués en Syrie
Le ministère dit "avoir connaissance de 200 individus liés au Royaume-Uni qui se sont rendus en Syrie et qui sont un motif d'inquiétude", tout en précisant que "leur nombre réel est vraisemblablement plus élevé".
http://www.lemonde.fr/proche-orient/article/2013/11/21/quatre-djihadistes-britanniques-tues-en-syrie_3518223_3218.html
Thursday 21 November 2013
Ukraine drops EU plans and looks to Russia
In dramatic turnaround, government says it is suspending trade pact preparations and talking to Russia again.
Ukraine drops EU plans and looks to Russia - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Wednesday 20 November 2013
Kurdish leader makes historic Turkey visit
It was a breakthrough moment: Massoud Barzani, the president of Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey's predominantly Kurdish city of Diyarbakir, shouting messages of peace to thousands of spectators.
It was an emotionally momentous day for Turkish Kurds for another reason as well. Iconic Kurdish poet and singer Sivan Perwer, who fled Turkey in 1976, accompanied Barzani on his trip and returned to his homeland after decades of exile.
Kurdish leader makes historic Turkey visit - Features - Al Jazeera English
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