Weekly News Recap (22 - 28 April 2024)
© Photo by Wiki Palestine via Wikimedia Commons
- UK: Parliamentary Researchers Charged with Espionage for China
- US: Supreme Court to Rule on ATF’s Ghost Gun Regulation
- Brazil: Supreme Court Issues Ultimatum to Social Media Platform X for Alleged Non-Compliance
- Russia: Moscow Court Rejects Appeal of American Journalist Evan Gershkovich’s Pre-Trial Detention
- Germany: Far-Right AfD Party Aide Arrested in Germany on Espionage Charges
- ECtHR: Court Rules that Turkey Violated UN Judge’s Rights
- Serbia: Belgrade Court Sentences Former Yugoslav Army Members for Kosovo Atrocities
International Peace & Security Section
- Ecuador: Citizens Vote in Favour of Endorsing Enhanced Security Measures Amidst Surge of Violence
- China: 110,000 People Evacuated Due to Flooding
- US: Numerous Arrests at Pro-Palestinian Student Protests at Yale and NYU
- Ukraine: Russian Missiles Strike Kharkiv TV Tower
- North Korea: Multiple Suspected Short Range Missiles Tested
- Gaza: Mass Graves Discovered After Israeli Siege on Nasser and Al-Shifa Hospitals
- UK: 5 Migrants Die in English Channel Hours After UK Passes New Rwanda Immigration Law
- Colombia: Arrest Warrants Against Members of an Illegal Armed Group Suspended Amidst Peace Negotiations
- Burkina Faso: Military Forces Accused of Massacring Villagers in Human Rights Watch Report
- Lebanon: Declaration Submitted to ICC Permitting Investigation and Prosecution of Crimes
International Justice Section
UK: Parliamentary Researchers Charged with Espionage for China
On 22 April 2024, British parliamentary researchers, Christopher Cash, 29, and Christopher Berry, 32, were formally charged under the Official Secrets Act 1911 for alleged espionage activities for China, announced by UK’s Counter Terrorism Policing led by the Metropolitan Police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). Initially arrested in March 2023, the charges pertain to their alleged provision of sensitive materials to China during early 2022 and 2023, actions deemed harmful to the UK’s national interests. The legal actions align with ongoing legislative efforts aimed at strengthening laws against espionage, amid broader concerns highlighted by the National Cyber Security Centre about China’s attempts to target UK democratic processes. The complex case, underscored by Dominic Murphy of the Counter Terrorism Command and Nick Price of the CPS, warns of the serious implications of such offences and the need for public restraint in discourse to ensure a fair trial. Amidst these developments, China has denied the allegations, dismissing them as baseless. Both defendants are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court soon, with further details on the case anticipated.
https://www.ft.com/content/fd2cdeec-8263-49c0-a98e-55764f0b19c1
US: Supreme Court to Rule on ATF’s Ghost Gun Regulation
On 22 April 2024, the US Supreme Court agreed to review a decision by the Fifth US Circuit Court of Appeals that invalidated an ATF rule aimed at regulating ghost guns, which are firearms assembled from parts kits without registration. The US Fifth Circuit of Appeals had ruled that the ATF’s regulation, which redefined “frame” and “receiver” to include incomplete and multi-part components capable of being assembled into functional firearms, exceeded statutory boundaries set by the Gun Control Act (GCA). The rule was introduced in April 2022 to broaden the definition to cover parts kits that could be easily made into a working firearm. The Biden administration has appealed this decision, arguing that the rule aligns with the GCA’s language concerning parts that can be readily converted into operational firearms. This case is part of broader legal challenges regarding ghost guns, highlighted by the Nevada Supreme Court’s recent affirmation of a state ban on these weapons.
Brazil: Supreme Court Issues Ultimatum to Social Media Platform X for Alleged Non-Compliance
On 23 April 2024, Justice Alexandre de Moraes of the Brazilian Supreme Court issued a five-day ultimatum to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), demanding an explanation for its alleged non-compliance with previous court mandates by this Friday. This action is part of an extensive investigation into “milícias digitais” (digital militias) accused of spreading disinformation and inciting criminal activities during former President Jair Bolsonaro’s tenure. The investigation has led to the targeting and blocking of accounts belonging to figures such as bloggers Allan dos Santos, Oswaldo Eustáquio, Senator Marcos do Val, and commentators Paulo Figueiredo Filho and Rodrigo Constantino, who are believed to use these digital platforms to evade Brazilian judicial orders and fuel political extremism. X’s representatives in Brazil have responded, noting that live broadcasting has been disabled for the affected accounts, with 161 accounts blocked by court order and an additional 65 by the Superior Electoral Court. The scrutiny extends to Elon Musk, X’s executive director, who is now embroiled in the investigation facing serious allegations of orchestrating a disinformation campaign and ignoring judicial instructions to block certain users.
Russia: Moscow Court Rejects Appeal of American Journalist Evan Gershkovich’s Pre-Trial Detention
On 23 April 2024, a Moscow court dismissed an appeal by American Wall Street journalist Evan Gershkovich against his pre-trial detention on espionage charges, which he, The Wall Street Journal, and the US government have refuted. Gershkovich, 32, has been incarcerated for over a year in Moscow’s Lefortovo Prison following his arrest in Yekaterinburg during a reporting trip. Despite claims by Russian authorities of catching him “red-handed,” details of the accusations remain undisclosed publicly. His trial date is unset, with his detention recently extended to 30 June 2024. This case marks the first arrest of a Western journalist in Russia on espionage charges since the Soviet era. Discussions about a potential prisoner exchange involving Gershkovich have been hinted at by Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, who suggested a swap involving a Russian detained in Germany. However, official comments on these negotiations have been sparse, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasising the need for confidentiality in such diplomatic contacts.
Germany: Far-Right AfD Party Aide Arrested in Germany on Espionage Charges
On 24 April 2024, it was announced by the Federal Prosecutor’s Office that Jian G, an aide to Maximilian Krah, an MEP for the far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), was arrested in Dresden on charges of espionage. Accused of violating sections of the German Criminal Code, Jian G allegedly shared sensitive information from the European Parliament with a Chinese intelligence service and monitored Chinese dissidents in Germany. The Federal Court of Justice is reviewing the case to decide on further legal actions such as an arrest warrant or pre-trial detention. China has refuted these allegations, dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated. The incident arises amidst heightened tensions, given the proximity to the 2024 European Parliament elections scheduled for 9 June 2024, where Krah is a leading AfD candidate. This arrest has stirred significant controversy, with Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, labelling any espionage within the European Parliament as an internal threat to European democracy and emphasising the accountability of those employing such individuals.
ECtHR: Court Rules that Turkey Violated UN Judge’s Rights
On 24 April 2024, the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled that Aydin Sefa Akay, a UN judge, was unlawfully detained by Turkish authorities in 2016 following a failed coup attempt, as they failed to recognise his diplomatic immunity. Akay’s subsequent application to the ECtHR highlighted violations of his human rights during pre-trial detention, including searches of his home and person. The ECtHR found in Akay’s favour, determining that his detention breached Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) regarding the right to liberty and security, as well as Article 8 concerning the right to private life. Despite this ruling, Akay remains incarcerated due to a separate conviction, although he is entitled to financial compensation. Turkey has a three-month window to contest the ECtHR’s decision.
Serbia: Belgrade Court Sentences Former Yugoslav Army Members for Kosovo Atrocities
On 24 April 2024, the Belgrade Higher Court convicted seven former members of the 177th Yugoslav Army Unit for war crimes committed during the Kosovo war in April and May 1999. Commander Toplica Miladinovic received a 20-year prison sentence for ordering subordinates to commit war crimes in four villages. Six other members received varying prison terms, while two were acquitted. The attacks resulted in the deaths of at least 118 Kosovo Albanian civilians, with allegations of house burnings and forced displacement. The retrial, addressing concerns from previous proceedings, featured testimony from Kosovo Albanian witnesses. This verdict follows a lengthy legal process dating back to 2010, with the possibility of appeal within 30 days.
US: Arizona Attorney General Announces Indictment of 18 Individuals Linked to Trump’s Election Intervention
On 25 April 2024, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes announced the indictment of 18 individuals linked to former US President Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Arizona. The charges include fraud, forgery, and conspiracy, with 11 of the accused publicly named, while seven remain undisclosed. The indictment accuses them of attempting to prevent the lawful transfer of presidential power by orchestrating false or unproven claims about voter fraud to overturn Arizona’s legitimate election results, in favour of Trump. This action, described as a broader scheme involving attempts to influence the electoral certification process on 6 January 2021, includes serious felony charges under Arizona law.
International Peace & Security Section
Ecuador: Citizens Vote in Favour of Endorsing Enhanced Security Measures Amidst Surge of Violence
On 22 April 2024, it was reported that Ecuador held a referendum on 21 April to address rising crime rates, including a surge in violent deaths and high-profile murders. The measures approved by voters include granting the military more authority to patrol streets, extending prison sentences for criminals, and allowing extradition of violent offenders. President Daniel Noboa called for the referendum amid growing concerns over public safety. Despite some feeling safer with increased military presence, human rights groups fear potential abuses. Ecuador’s geographical location between major cocaine producers and its economic challenges during the pandemic have contributed to crime escalation. The referendum also proposed legalising hourly work contracts to combat unemployment, but it did not pass. While President Noboa sees the measures as vital for fighting crime, critics worry about potential human rights violations like mass arrests and arbitrary detentions.
China: 110,000 People Evacuated Due to Flooding
As of 22 April 2024, Chinese authorities evacuated 110,000 people from their homes in China’s Guangdong province after heavy rainfall led to mass flooding. At least four people have died, with 10 missing. The floods inundated large areas, forcing rescuers to use lifeboats in waist-deep water. Several major rivers have overflowed, and authorities are closely monitoring water levels, warning of potential once-in-a-century peaks. Guangdong, part of the low-lying Pearl River delta, is prone to floods due to rising sea levels and storm surges. Major cities like Guangzhou, Shaoguan, and Heyuan were severely affected. Over 1.16 million households lost power, with many schools closed and flights cancelled or delayed. The economic loss is estimated at nearly US$19.8 million, with homes collapsing and infrastructure damaged. Videos shared online depict the devastation, with torrents collapsing walls and bridges. Meteorological authorities predict continued heavy rain in Guangdong and neighbouring Fujian provinces, as well as other parts of China, including Beijing and Hebei. In July 2023, Beijing experienced its heaviest rainfall in 140 years, leading to widespread flooding.
US: Numerous Arrests at Pro-Palestinian Student Protests at Yale and NYU
On 22 April 2024, police made numerous arrests at pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Yale University in Connecticut and New York University in Manhattan amid ongoing student protests across US campuses regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza. At Yale, 47 protesters were arrested for refusing to leave after demands to disperse. Columbia University also faced disruptions, leading to the cancellation of in-person classes after students set up tent encampments. Similar protests occurred at NYU, where police dismantled encampments and made arrests. These incidents follow a pattern of tensions on US campuses, with Columbia University recently involving law enforcement to clear a protest camp. The situation prompted Columbia to cancel in-person classes to ease tensions. Solidarity protests erupted across various universities, advocating for a Gaza ceasefire and divestment from companies with ties to Israel.
Ukraine: Russian Missiles Strike Kharkiv TV Tower
On 22 April 2024, Russian missile strikes targeted Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, damaging a prominent TV tower. The strikes coincide with increased Russian pressure on the northeastern region, exploiting Ukraine’s air defence vulnerabilities. Kharkiv has faced repeated attacks, with recent strikes focusing on critical infrastructure and residential areas. The Institute for the Study of War warns of a concerted effort to destroy Kharkiv and displace civilians. In response, the US Senate plans to vote on US$61 billion in war aid to Ukraine, with assurances from US President Biden of advanced military capabilities. Britain also pledged significant military supplies, including long-range missiles. However, EU countries showed reluctance to provide Patriot air defence systems. Ukraine is grappling with the challenge of mobilising its forces and addressing conscription issues amid ongoing attacks. Meanwhile, Russian aggression continues, with missile strikes injuring civilians and damaging infrastructure in cities like Dnipro and Kostiantynivka.
https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-kharkiv-tv-tower-317bfd1aef56342a82dfa0a776dadbcc
North Korea: Multiple Suspected Short Range Missiles Tested
On 22 April 2024, North Korea conducted suspected short-range ballistic missile tests, firing them into the sea, with ranges indicating they could target South Korea. South Korea and Japan strongly condemned the launches, viewing them as threats to regional peace. Japan’s coast guard issued warnings but reported no damage. North Korea’s recent weapons tests, including a “super-large” cruise missile and a solid-fuel intermediate-range missile, indicate its efforts to enhance military capabilities amid stalled diplomacy with the US and South Korea. Concerns mount over a potential satellite launch violating UN Security Council resolutions, with South Korea detecting preparations but no imminent signs. North Korea’s intentions for a satellite launch could coincide with key anniversaries, and the US and South Korea are bolstering military cooperation to counter such threats. North Korea’s previous satellite launches have drawn international scrutiny, viewed as disguised tests of ballistic missile technology, banned by UN resolutions.
https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-missile-launch-e156b60c342cfc4ebf03e33a5a31503a
Gaza: Mass Graves Discovered After Israeli Siege on Nasser and Al-Shifa Hospitals
On 23 April 2024, the UN rights chief expressed horror over the destruction of medical facilities in Gaza and reports of mass graves found at Nasser and Al Shifa hospitals. Palestinian authorities reported discovering hundreds of bodies in mass graves, alleging they were left by Israeli forces. However, the Israeli military denied these claims, stating they examined bodies in search of hostages and treated the deceased with respect. The UN called for further investigations into potential human rights violations. Palestinian health authorities reported finding 310 bodies in one mass grave at Nasser hospital, with more graves identified. Individuals found in the mass graves included those in medical scrubs and with their hands tied.The UN also condemned Israeli strikes in Gaza, emphasising the civilian casualties, and warned against a full-scale incursion in Rafah. In the West Bank, violence escalated, with reports of Palestinian deaths, including alleged extrajudicial executions, following clashes with Israeli forces. Israel maintained that militants were targeted during the raids.
UK: 5 Migrants Die in English Channel Hours After UK Passes New Rwanda Immigration Law
On 23 April 2024, five asylum seekers, including a child, died while crossing the English Channel in an overcrowded boat, shortly after the UK approved a bill to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda. The boat, carrying 112 people, departed from Wimereux in France, with rescuers managing to save 49 individuals. Despite efforts, some stayed onboard and continued towards Britain. French authorities reported the engine failure just off the shore, resulting in several passengers falling into the water. This incident adds to the more than 6,000 arrivals in Britain in 2024 via small boats. The UK’s long-debated plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda faced parliamentary approval, with flights expected within 10 to 12 weeks. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the move, citing the need to combat people smuggling. However, the UN refugee agency and the Council of Europe urged the UK to reconsider, expressing concerns about its impact on international cooperation in addressing the migration crisis. Similar initiatives are being considered in other European countries, including Austria and Germany.
Colombia: Arrest Warrants Against Members of an Illegal Armed Group Suspended Amidst Peace Negotiations
On 25 April 2024, the Colombian attorney general’s office suspended arrest warrants for nine leaders of the Segunda Marquetalia, a dissident faction of the now-demobilised Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), as part of President Gustavo Petro’s initiative to initiate peace talks between the group and the government. This move is aimed at ending the country’s decades-long armed conflict, which has resulted in over 450,000 deaths. While efforts for peace negotiations are underway, the top commander, Ivan Marquez, was not included in the list. The government is also engaged in discussions with other leftist guerrilla groups, including the National Liberation Army and the Estado Mayor Central, another FARC faction that never accepted the 2016 peace deal.
Burkina Faso: Military Forces Accused of Massacring Villagers in Human Rights Watch Report
On 26 April 2024, Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that military forces in Burkina Faso carried out lethal attacks on two villages, Nondin and Soro, on 25 February 2024, resulting in the deaths of at least 233 civilians. These incidents rank among the gravest military abuses in the country since 2015. The motivations behind these attacks remain unclear, as the Burkinabè Defense Minister Mahamoudou Sana, in an interview following the attacks, failed to address these specific incidents but mentioned Islamist hostilities on the same day. HRW suggests that the villagers perceive these acts as retaliatory measures by the military against Islamist groups. These actions might constitute crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), considering their systematic and widespread nature against civilians. The ongoing political instability following a military coup in October 2022, and subsequent armed insurgencies, complicate efforts to address and prevent such atrocities, further exacerbated by insufficient international support and attention as indicated by UN High Commissioner Volker Türk.
https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/04/25/burkina-faso-army-massacres-223-villagers
Lebanon: The Foreign Affairs Ministry Instructed to Submit a Declaration to ICC Permitting Investigation and Prosecution of Crimes
On 26 April 2024, Lebanon’s Council of Ministers moved towards acknowledging the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC) within its territory. The Council of Ministers have instructed the Foreign Affairs Ministry to submit a declaration to the ICC, granting the court authority to investigate and prosecute crimes occurring in Lebanon since October 7, 2023. Despite not being a ratifying member of the ICC Rome Statute, this declaration enables the investigation of serious crimes within Lebanese borders. The decision comes amidst accusations against Israel for violating Lebanese sovereignty and international law, particularly following clashes involving Hezbollah and Israeli forces. These clashes have resulted in civilian casualties, including the death of journalist Issam Abdallah, attributed to an Israeli tank strike. Human Rights Watch has documented alleged targeting of journalists and civilians in Lebanon and commended the Council of Ministers’ decision as a step towards securing justice for war crimes. They urge the swift submission of the declaration to facilitate justice for victims, including those affected by actions of Israeli forces, underscoring the importance of upholding obligations under the laws of war.
https://www.jurist.org/news/2024/04/lebanon-takes-major-step-towards-accepting-icc-jurisdiction/