Weekly News Recap (12 - 18 February 2024)
© Photo by Airwolfhound via Flickr
Bosnia: Trial of Bosnian Army Soldiers for Wartime Atrocities
- Netherlands: Man Arrested for Alleged Role in Rwandan Genocide
France: Majid Nema to Face War Crimes Trial, Exempted from Charges of Enforced Disappearances
Germany: Suspect in the Madeleine McCann Case Faces Trial for Sexual Offences
International Peace & Security Section
UN: Concern Over Escalation of Attacks on Civilians in Ukraine
Madagascar: Parliament Passes Castration Law for Paedophiles
Philippines: Nearly 100 000 Families Displaced Due to Torrential Rains and Floods
Russia: Law to Seize Assets of People Discrediting Military Passed by Putin
Sudan: Houthi Attacks in the Red Sea Affecting Aid Shipments to Sudan
Egypt: Satellite Images Suggest Construction on Egyptian Border with Gaza, In Event of Mass Exodus
International Justice Section
Netherlands: Dutch Court Halts F-35 Parts Export to Israel
On 12 February 2024, the appeals court ordered the Dutch government to stop exporting F-35 fighter jet parts to Israel, as there’s a significant risk of these parts being used in violations of international law. This decision follows a civil suit brought by three human rights organisations in December, arguing that the export licence should be reassessed due to Israeli military actions in Gaza. The court ruling requires exports to cease within seven days. This decision coincides with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s visit to Israel to discuss the conflict. The human rights groups argue that the Netherlands’ continued transfer of aircraft parts makes them complicit in potential war crimes committed by Israel.
https://apnews.com/article/netherlands-court-f35-israel-b33608b054a33fbacc518395b53b74e8
ICJ: South Africa’s Appeal Over Gaza Crisis
On 13 February 2024, the South African government filed an urgent appeal with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) challenging Israel’s decision to expand military operations in Rafah, Gaza, the last refuge for many Palestinians. They urged that the ICJ intervene to avoid additional breaches of Palestinian rights. Citing Article 75(1) of the Rules of Court, they emphasised the court’s authority to investigate the situation and take interim measures. The South African government expressed deep concern about Israel’s military offensive, fearing it would result in additional lives and destruction, violating the Genocide Convention and the Court’s previous judgement. They urged the ICJ to intervene quickly in light of the rising death toll in Gaza. On 17 February 2024, the ICJ rejected the request but also stressed that Israel must adhere to the previously established measures imposed last month. The Court emphasised that no new order was necessary as the existing measures “are applicable throughout the Gaza Strip, including in Rafah”.
https://apnews.com/article/world-court-israel-gaza-south-africa-40b00a2ddbb118374cf0993fe54b0399
Bosnia: Trial of Bosnian Army Soldiers for Wartime Atrocities
On 14 February 2024, a trial began in Sarajevo for thirteen former Bosnian Army soldiers and commanders who are facing charges related to wartime crimes. It is alleged that they were involved in the 1992 attack on Josanica village, resulting in the death of 56 Serb civilians and the destruction of property. All the defendants denied the charges against them. Ferid Buljubasic, charged as the commander of the Bosnian Army’s Eastern Bosnian Operational Group, is accused of leading the attack, while Ahmet Sejdic, an officer at the Armed Forces Headquarters, allegedly commanded an armed forces brigade. The indictment accuses them of orchestrating attacks without legitimate military targets, resulting in civilian casualties. Buljubasic is also charged with ordering attacks in 1993 that led to the deaths of 11 Bosnian Serb civilians. The prosecution alleges a deliberate intent to harm the Serb population, even in the absence of military necessity.
https://balkaninsight.com/2024/02/14/bosnia-tries-13-ex-soldiers-for-wartime-killings-of-serbs/
Netherlands: Man Arrested for Alleged Role in Rwandan Genocide
On 14 February 2024, the International Crimes Team (TIM) apprehended a 64-year-old man in Ede, the Netherlands, for his alleged role in the Rwandan genocide. A Rwandan-born resident in the Netherlands since 1998, he faces charges of co-determining genocide, incitement to genocide, as well as war crimes involving looting and property destruction. Despite an international arrest warrant issued by Rwandan authorities in 2014, the suspect, holding Dutch nationality, couldn’t be extradited. The Dutch investigation, initiated in 2020 by TIM and the National Public Prosecutor’s Office, involved on-site inquiries in Rwanda, with dozens of witnesses interviewed. The suspect, implicated in a 1994 raid in Gatobotobobo, Huye, during which over 100 000 people were killed, appeared before the examining magistrate on Friday. This arrest adds to previous cases in the Netherlands related to the Rwandan genocide, reflecting the ongoing pursuit of justice for such heinous crimes.
https://www.om.nl/actueel/nieuws/2024/02/14/man-uit-ede-aangehouden-wegens-genocide-rwanda
France: Majid Nema to Face War Crimes Trial, Exempted from Charges of Enforced Disappearances
On 14 February 2024, the French Court of Cassation dismissed an appeal by civil parties, ruling that Majdi Nema, a 35-year-old Syrian and former spokesperson for the armed group Jaysh al-Islam, would face trial in France solely for complicity in war crimes. The court’s decision means Nema will not be tried for the enforced disappearances of four human rights activists in 2013, abducted by Jaysh al-Islam and never found. The charges against Nema include recruiting children between 2013 and 2016 and participating in a criminal association for war crime preparation. Despite assertions of being a mere spokesperson without influence, Nema’s trial is scheduled for the spring of 2025. The Court of Cassation upheld the earlier finding that the crime of enforced disappearance was not legally constituted, citing a lack of evidence demonstrating a direct and positive act by the group’s leadership.
Norway: Court Maintains Breivik’s Isolation Status
On 15 February 2024, Anders Behring Breivik, the perpetrator of the 2011 Norwegian massacre, lost his legal bid to end his isolation in prison. The Oslo District Court rejected his claim that his prison conditions violated his human rights. Breivik, also known as Fjotolf Hansen, is serving a 21-year sentence for killing 77 people in a bombing and shooting spree. He argued that his isolation was inhumane, but the court disagreed, stating that he has adequate living conditions and considerable freedom. Breivik, who has shown no remorse for his crimes, remains considered dangerous by authorities. Despite previous legal attempts, including a ruling in his favour in 2016, higher courts upheld the state’s position, and the European Court of Human Rights dismissed his case in 2018.
India: Supreme Court Strikes Down Electoral Bond System
On 15 February 2024, India’s Supreme Court invalidated the seven-year-old electoral bond system, which allowed individuals and companies to donate to political parties anonymously and without limits. This verdict is seen as a challenge by the ruling party, since it comes just two months before the general elections. Challenged by opposition parties and civil society groups for obstructing transparency in political funding, the court ruled the system unconstitutional and directed the State Bank of India (SBI) to cease issuing these bonds, disclose purchaser identities, and provide information on bond redemption by each political party. While the government argued that the system reduced the use of “black money” in funding, critics saw it as a conduit for corporate influence over policymaking. The court’s decision reinstated corporate donation limits, emphasising the disproportionate influence of companies in contrast to individuals and recognising the impact on democratic processes. The ruling, hailed as significant for democracy, is expected to affect the upcoming general election by curbing potential financial manipulation.
Germany: Suspect in the Madeleine McCann Case Faces Trial for Sexual Offences
On 16 February 2024, the main suspect in the disappearance of British toddler Madeleine McCann is now facing trial for several unrelated sexual offences allegedly committed in Portugal between 2000 and 2017. Christian Brückner, 47, appeared in a Braunschweig state court in Germany, accused of three counts of rape and two counts of sexual abuse of children. Brückner, who denies involvement in McCann’s case, has already been convicted of rape in Portugal and is currently serving a prison sentence in Germany. His defence intends to seek his acquittal on all charges. The trial was temporarily suspended after the defence raised concerns about a lay judge’s alleged bias based on social media posts advocating violence. Prosecutors detailed multiple incidents where Brückner allegedly committed acts of sexual violence, including rape and exposure to minors. The trial, set to have 29 sessions until late June, is taking place in Braunschweig following a jurisdictional ruling overturning a previous decision.
USA: Trump Faces Penalty in New York Court Ruling
On 16 February 2024, in a significant legal ruling, New York Judge Arthur Engoron imposed a 355-million-dollar penalty on former President Donald Trump, his companies, and executives for defrauding banks with inflated financial statements, as well as a three-year ban on Trump serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation. Despite Trump’s denials of guilt and promises to appeal, the judge found him and his co-defendants guilty of refusing to accept responsibility for their acts and chastised their lack of contrition. Trump’s defence team argued against politically motivated allegations during his two-and-a-half-month trial. New York Attorney General Letitia James, who filed the action, hailed the ruling for exposing years of dishonest conduct.
https://apnews.com/article/trump-civil-fraud-verdict-engoron-244024861f0df886543c157c9fc5b3e4
International Peace & Security Section
UN: Concern Over Escalation of Attacks on Civilians in Ukraine
On 12 February 2024, as the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine approaches, UN Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenča expressed deep concern over escalating attacks on civilians. Briefing the Security Council, Jenča warned that the intensifying conflict threatened the prospects for a just and lasting solution. He emphasised the UN’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, advocating for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. Jenča stressed the importance of addressing root causes in peace processes, urging full and equal participation of women, youth, and civil society. Meanwhile, ongoing hostilities in Ukraine, including evening strikes in Kharkiv leading to a massive fire, have prompted humanitarian responses, with efforts to provide assistance, mental health support, and repairs to affected areas. Damage to energy facilities has left numerous towns without electricity, underscoring the severe impact of the conflict on the country.
Madagascar: Parliament Passes Castration Law for Paedophiles
On 12 February 2024, the parliament of Madagascar approved a law permitting chemical and surgical castration as punishment for individuals convicted of raping minors. While international human rights organisations have condemned the measure, local activists view it as a necessary deterrent to combat what they describe as a pervasive “rape culture.” The law, passed on February 2 and subsequently approved by the Senate, awaits ratification by the High Constitutional Court and the signature of President Andry Rajoelina. Justice Minister Landy Mbolatiana Randriamanantenasoa defended the law, citing a surge in child rape cases. The law also imposes harsher prison sentences. Critics, including Amnesty International, decry the law as violating human rights and failing to address systemic issues such as victim protection and flaws in the justice system. Concerns are raised about the practicality of implementing the punishment and potential injustices if exonerated individuals have undergone castration. Despite criticism, local advocates view the law as a step forward in deterring potential offenders, though they emphasise the need for widespread awareness and understanding of the new penalties to be effective.
Philippines: Nearly 100 000 Families Displaced Due to Torrential Rains and Floods
As of 12 February 2024, the southern region of Mindanao in the Philippines is grappling with severe displacement, affecting nearly 100 000 families, as torrential rains trigger floods and landslides. Save the Children Philippines is conducting rescue and humanitarian efforts, providing children’s hygiene kits, assessing needs, and addressing the concerns about the physical and mental well-being of children. The extreme weather is linked to the climate crisis and El Niño, with the phenomenon expected to last until May 2024. Over 1.2 million people, including 269 000 children, have been impacted, leading to fatalities, home damage, and disruptions to essential services. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reports damaged infrastructure, including 43 schools, disrupted electricity and communication networks, and threats to water supplies and sanitation services, particularly in isolated areas. Save the Children Philippines emphasised the vulnerability of children during disasters and stressed the need for coordinated action with the government. The Philippines, identified as the world’s most vulnerable country to natural disasters, faces increased climate-related risks, impacting future generations. Save the Children is actively supporting affected families and children to mitigate the immediate aftermath of the disaster.
Nigeria: Significant Spike in Measles Admissions
On 12 February 2024, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported that between October and December 2023, MSF facilities in Maiduguri, Northeast Nigeria, experienced a significant spike in measles admissions, treating a total of 9 618 patients for measles in 2023, nearly three times more than the same period in 2022. This surge is attributed to the failure to achieve the required 95% vaccination rate, compounded by difficulties in accessing rural communities due to insecurity. The interruption of routine childhood vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic, technical complications disrupting the cold chain, and an unprecedented diphtheria outbreak with over 24 500 suspected cases and 600 deaths further highlight setbacks in immunisation programs. The longer-than-usual malaria season adds to the challenges. MSF warned of a potential humanitarian crisis in 2024, emphasising the need for international and national stakeholders to address the complex security situation, funding cuts, and neglect of public health infrastructure in Northern Nigeria to prevent a worsening of the situation. The measles spike poses additional risks in a region already grappling with malnutrition, creating a vicious cycle of increased morbidity and mortality.
Iran-US: US Seizes Plane Sold to Venezuela by Iran
On 12 February 2024, the United States announced it had seized a Boeing 747 cargo plane that Iran sold to a Venezuelan state airline in 2022, citing violations of sanctions on Iran. The US Department of Justice took custody of the aircraft, which Mahan Air, associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), sold to Venezuela’s Emtrasur. The sale breached US sanctions, leading Argentina to ground the plane in 2022. The US accuses Mahan Air of transporting weapons and fighters for the IRGC and Hezbollah. Iran condemned the move as “illegal,” pledged support for Venezuela in reclaiming the Boeing, and criticised Argentina for alleged collusion. The US Justice Department revealed that the registered captain of the aircraft was a former IRGC commander and a shareholder in Fars Air Qeshm, linked to the IRGC’s Quds Force. The US-built plane, now in Florida after 18 months in Argentinian control, is set for disposal.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/2/13/us-takes-over-boeing-747-iran-had-sold-to-venezuela
UN: Urgent Action Needed to Address Interconnected Challenges of Conflict, Climate Change and Food Insecurity
On 13 February 2024, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged urgent action to address the interconnected challenges of conflict, climate change, and food insecurity. Speaking at a Security Council meeting convened by Guyana, Guterres highlighted the escalating threats of climate chaos and food crises to global peace and security. Almost 174 million people worldwide were affected by the global food crisis in 2022, exacerbated by climate disasters and conflict. Guterres cited examples such as Gaza, where four in five of the world’s hungriest people reside. He emphasised that all 14 countries most at risk from climate change are experiencing conflict, and 13 face humanitarian crises. The Secretary-General called for adherence to international humanitarian law and increased funding for humanitarian operations to prevent conflicts from exacerbating hunger. To address the root causes, Guterres advocated for accelerated progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals and massive investment in healthy, equitable, and sustainable food systems. He stressed the need for global climate action, including limiting the rise in global temperature and supporting climate adaptation measures.
Russia: Law to Seize Assets of People Discrediting Military Passed by Putin
On 14 February 2024, Vladimir Putin, the Russian President, signed a law allowing authorities to seize the assets of people who discredit the military. According to the law, people convicted of offences ranging from “discrediting” the government and spreading “deliberately false information” about the army would have their assets confiscated by the government. The law would also apply to persons convicted of publicly inciting “extremist activities” and calling for actions harmful to state security. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Kremlin while expressing his fears of misuse of the law highlighted that it could target exiled critics who have property at home and it had “absolutely” nothing to do with Soviet-style confiscations. The new law would come into effect just ahead of the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the upcoming presidential elections in March, which Putin would almost certainly win.
Greece: Parliament Legalises Same-sex Marriage
On 15 February 2024, the Greek parliament passed a law legalising same-sex marriage, marking a significant advancement for human rights in Greece and making it the first predominantly Orthodox Christian nation to achieve marriage equality. The decision was supported by 176 lawmakers out of 300, following extensive debate. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed it as a milestone reflecting Greece’s commitment to progressive values. The LGBTQ+ community, long marginalised, welcomed the law as a validation of their rights and an opportunity for legal recognition. The legislation grants parental and children’s rights to same-sex couples, allowing them to adopt and receive full parental recognition. The Greek Orthodox Church opposed the bill, citing concerns about child welfare. Far-right groups and politicians also opposed the law. Despite significant criticism from the ruling New Democracy party, the law was enacted with opposition support. The result has significant implications for eliminating discrimination against the LGBTQ+ population in Greece, with many expressing relief and hope for a more inclusive society.
Trinidad and Tobago: Oil Spill May Spread into Caribbean Sea, May Affect Venezuela and Neighbouring Countries
On 15 February 2024, Farley Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago’s chief secretary, warned that the oil spill from an overturned and abandoned barge that has stained Tobago’s coastline along with entering Grenada’s water could also affect Venezuela. The spill from the vessel has moved about 144 km into the Caribbean Sea at 14 km/h. The chief secretary further stated that the situation was under control with a 40-ft perimeter supported by booms around the wreckage while adding that fuel continued to leak as they could not plug in the leak until they had information regarding the quantity of fuel and what exactly is in the vessel. According to a preliminary investigation, the barge was being tugged to nearby Guyana.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/feb/15/trinidad-tobago-oil-spill
Venezuela: UN Human Rights Office Operations Suspended
On 15 February 2024, Yvan Gil, Venezuelan foreign affairs minister, announced the decision to suspend the operations of the local UN office on human rights in Venezuela, giving the staff notice of 72 hours. The move comes after the government accused the human rights office of promoting opposition to the South American country. He urged that the operations of the UN Human Rights office would not continue unless it rectified its “colonialist, abusive and violating attitude”. Additionally, he accused the office of supporting impunity for individuals involved in attempted assassinations, coups, or conspiracies. The move by the government comes after the UN human rights office expressed its “deep concern” over the detention of prominent rights activist Rocio San Miguel while calling for her “immediate release”. Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN human rights office, stated that they were “evaluating the next steps” while continuing to engage with the authorities and their stakeholders.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/feb/15/venezuela-closes-un-human-rights-office
Sudan: Houthi Attacks in the Red Sea Affecting Aid Shipments to Sudan
On 16 February 2024, it was reported that the attacks by Houthi forces against ships in the Red Sea are affecting the shipments of humanitarian aid to Sudan. The attacks have further increased the costs of providing aid to the East African country as due to the attacks, the ships carrying humanitarian aid from Asia to Port Sudan have to change their route now and enter the Red Sea via the Suez Canal from the north, and the same is causing delays. Eatizi Yousif, Sudan’s country director for the International Rescue Committee (IRC), stated that the attacks were making their operations “very expensive” and shipments were taking months to reach the country. To avoid the Yemeni coast, smaller shipments of aid are also being delivered by disembarking them at ports in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), driving them across Saudi Arabia, and shipping them to Sudan from Jeddah. Other aid is being flown in from Kenya or driven across the Egyptian border, which are longer routes and cost more.
Egypt: Satellite Images Suggest Construction on Egyptian Border with Gaza, In Event of Mass Exodus
On 16 February 2024, the Guardian reported that in photos and videos released by the Sinai Foundation for Human Rights (SFHR), a monitoring group revealed that Egypt has begun constructing an enclosed area ringed with high concrete along its border with Gaza, and shows workers using heavy machinery to erect concrete barriers and security towers around it. The building is intended to house Palestinian refugees fleeing a threatened Israeli assault in Rafah. According to the SFHR on social media, the videos showcase efforts to construct an enclosed area on the border with the Gaza Strip to receive refugees “in the event of a mass exodus”. The SFHR said in a report that the gated area will be surrounded by 7 meter high, i.e. 23 ft high cement walls. Reports as to building a refugee camp along the border in the event of a mass exodus of Palestinians have been denied by Mohamed Abdelfadil Shousha, the governor of North Sinai.