Weekly News Recap (22 - 28 July 2024)
© Photo by United Nations Photo via Flickr
- Germany: Court Rules No General Danger to Civilians in Syria, Rejecting Asylum Claim
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USA: Trump Campaign Files FEC Legal Complaint Over Biden-Harris Campaign Fund Transfer Allegations
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UAE: Court Sentences 57 Bangladeshi Nationals for Unlawful Assembly and Inciting Riots
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Kenya: High Court Finds Police Commanders and Officers Guilty of Crimes Against Humanity
- UK: Labour Government Drops Opposition to ICC Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu
International Justice Section
Germany: Court Rules No General Danger to Civilians in Syria, Rejecting Asylum Claim
On 22 July 2024, a German higher administrative court in Muenster ruled that the long-running conflict in Syria no longer poses a general danger to civilians, rejecting protected status for a Syrian man previously convicted in Austria for smuggling. Justice Minister Marco Buschmann endorsed the decision, asserting regional safety variations in Syria. However, this ruling has sparked widespread criticism for its potentially dangerous oversimplification of Syria’s complex and volatile security landscape. The case involved a man from Hasaka province who arrived in Germany in 2014. Initially denied protected status due to his smuggling conviction, he was later recognised as a refugee. The Muenster court’s reversal, based on the man’s criminal record and the alleged reduction in violence in Hasaka, has been heavily criticised for its apparent disregard of the on-the-ground realities. Critics argue the decision ignores the persistent threats of sporadic violence and political instability that continue to endanger civilians across Syria. The ruling’s broader implications for German asylum policies are troubling. It sets a dangerous precedent that could undermine protection standards for Syrians, many of whom still face significant risks. The German Foreign Office’s own assessment contradicts the court’s view, highlighting ongoing threats from terrorism and violent jihadist activities throughout Syria. This disconnect between the court’s decision and the reality described by the Foreign Office raises serious concerns about the adequacy and fairness of current asylum policies. Moreover, the ruling has been criticised for potentially being influenced by political pressures to reduce immigration. This concern is heightened by recent trends in German politics, where anti-immigrant sentiments have gained traction, as evidenced by the rise of the far-right AfD party. Critics argue that decisions like this one reflect a growing hostility toward migrants and could lead to increased deportations, disregarding the genuine dangers many asylum seekers face.
https://apnews.com/article/germany-syria-migration-court-civil-war-d2746da0a7f302c7e256a6af162accee
Spain: Court Imposes Sentence of Imprisonment on Man Convicted of Terrorism for Sending Letter Bombs to Governmental Figures
On 23 July 2024, the Spanish National Court sentenced Pompeyo González Pascual, a 76-year-old man, to 18 years in prison for sending six letter bombs to prominent figures, including the Spanish Prime Minister, in November 2022. The Audiencia Nacional, Spain’s top criminal court, convicted him of terrorism (10 years) and preparing and placing explosives for terrorist purposes (8 years). The court found that González intended to disrupt Spanish society and pressure governments, including those of Spain and the US, to stop supporting Ukraine. The letter bombs were sent to the US and Ukrainian embassies, Spain’s Defence Minister Margarita Robles, a Spanish weapons firm, and a Spanish military station. Only a staff member at the Ukrainian embassy was slightly injured, as most packages were intercepted by security. González had extensively researched explosives and postal rates online and tracked the outcomes of his bomb deliveries through similar means. Despite his denials, the court found ample evidence of his guilt. After his arrest in January 2023, González was released conditionally in April, as he posed no risk of destroying evidence and had no prior convictions. The court noted his actions were independent but aligned with pro-Russian views and his opposition to Spain’s support for Ukraine. The Audiencia Nacional, headquartered in Madrid, handles nationwide criminal offences, ensuring justice across Spain.
USA: Trump Campaign Files FEC Legal Complaint Over Biden-Harris Campaign Fund Transfer Allegations
On 23 July 2024, former US President Donald Trump’s campaign filed a legal complaint with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) on Tuesday, challenging the legality of transferring $91.5 million raised for President Joe Biden’s reelection bid to Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign. The legal complaint argues that this transfer violates campaign finance rules, as Harris replaced Biden’s name with her own on campaign forms instead of filing a new “statement of candidacy.” The Harris campaign contends that the committees are simply renamed to reflect her candidacy. Trump’s campaign, represented by general counsel David Warrington, accused Biden, Harris, and campaign treasurer Keana Spencer of making and receiving an excessive contribution and filing fraudulent forms. The complaint demands the FEC to initiate enforcement, impose civil penalties, and refer the matter to the Department of Justice. FEC regulations allow fund transfers from candidate committees to party committees, which could then support various candidates. Legal experts suggest that the issue will likely remain unresolved until after the election.
UAE: Court Sentences 57 Bangladeshi Nationals for Unlawful Assembly and Inciting Riots
On 23 July 2024, the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) sentenced 57 Bangladeshi nationals for unlawful assembly, inciting riots, and gathering to pressure the Bangladesh government, as reported by the Emirates News Agency. Three individuals were sentenced to life imprisonment, while 53 received ten-year sentences, and one individual, who entered the UAE illegally, was sentenced to 11 years imprisonment. All 57 will be deported after serving their sentences, and their seized devices will be confiscated. The court’s decision followed an investigation that revealed the Bangladeshi nationals had organised large-scale protests in the UAE, disrupting public security and law enforcement. Despite the defence’s argument of insufficient evidence and lack of criminal intent, the court found enough evidence to convict. This ruling comes amidst significant unrest in Bangladesh, where the Supreme Court recently overturned the restoration of the government’s quota system for civil service jobs after violent protests. The protests, driven by opposition to the quota system favouring pro-government groups, have led to clashes with police, resulting in numerous casualties and a nationwide curfew.
Russia: Supreme Court Sentences Journalist Alsu Kurmasheva for False Reporting on Russian Armed Forces
On 23 July 2024, the Supreme Court of Tatarstan in Central Russia sentenced Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva to six and a half years in a medium-security penal colony for disseminating false information about the Russian Armed Forces. The secret trial, held in Kazan, was presided over by Judge Salikhov Ilfir Zilbirovich. Kurmasheva, associated with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, was found guilty under the amended Article 207.3, Part 2, paragraphs “g” and “d” of the Russian Criminal Code. She had initially been detained at Kazan International Airport for not registering her US passport and failing to declare herself as a foreign agent, linked to her editorial work on a book opposing the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This conviction, announced on 19 July 2024, coincides with the sentencing of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich for espionage. The case underscores the increasing repression of free expression in Russia, particularly against foreign journalists and media entities, as highlighted by Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders. The US State Department has condemned the conviction, emphasising that journalism is not a crime, and noting that Kurmasheva is one of several journalists from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty currently detained.
ECtHR: Court Confirms Spanish Courts’ Jurisdiction Limitations in the Case of Journalist David Couso Permuy’s Death
On 24 July 2024, the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled that Spanish courts did not violate Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) by discontinuing the investigation into the death of Spanish journalist David Couso Permuy in Iraq due to a lack of jurisdiction. In the case of Couso Permuy v. Spain (application no. 2327/20), the ECtHR upheld the Spanish legislative reforms which allow for the prosecution of foreigners for war crimes committed abroad only if they are present in Spain, thus limiting the court’s scope to cases with sufficient links to Spain to avoid overburdening the judiciary. The ECtHR noted that David Couso Permuy’s brother had the opportunity to pursue legal action from 2003 to 2015, before jurisdiction was lost due to legislative changes. The Spanish authorities conducted a thorough investigation and explored the possibility of prosecution in the US or Iraq when they had jurisdiction. However, prosecution of the three US servicemen named in the complaint was deemed impossible as US authorities refused to extradite them, and Spanish law prohibits trials in absentia. The ECtHR did not rule out the possibility of reopening the case if the servicemen were to travel to Spain. Previously, the Spanish Supreme Court had ordered a reopening of the investigation, but the Spanish National Court dismissed the charges due to a lack of new evidence, following claims by US authorities that the attack was a legitimate response to hostile fire.
https://hudoc.echr.coe.int/?i=003-8007962-11178018
Israel: IDF Issues Draft Orders to Ultra-Orthodox Men Amidst Gaza Conflict Personnel Shortages Following High Court Ruling
On 24 July 2024, it was reported that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) issued 1,000 draft orders to ultra-Orthodox Jewish men, as directed by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, to address personnel shortages exacerbated by casualties in the ongoing Gaza conflict. This decision follows a landmark judgment delivered by Israel’s High Court of Justice on 25 June 2024, which invalidated the decade-long exemption for ultra-Orthodox students from military service, despite efforts by ultra-Orthodox parties in Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government to preserve the exemption. The court’s ruling mandates equal treatment for all Israelis, compelling the government to begin drafting Haredi Jews. The policy of exemption has been contentious, especially during the war, as many Israelis felt burdened by the unequal treatment. Ultra-Orthodox groups, however, oppose the draft, citing conflicts with their religious practices and have protested, with rabbis instructing young men to burn conscription letters. In response, the IDF plans to integrate these recruits while respecting their religious practices, offering them the freedom to choose their positions. Amidst the nearly 10-month-long war in Gaza and the expansion of conflict on other fronts, the IDF faces a shortage of 10,000 personnel and is increasing drafts and extending military service.
Kenya: High Court Finds Police Commanders and Officers Guilty of Crimes Against Humanity
On 25 July 2024, a High Court ruling found 11 police commanders and officers accountable for crimes against humanity, including the death of baby Samantha Pendo during the 2017 post-election violence. The officers face 47 charges, including murder, torture, and rape, stemming from police actions during protests in Kisumu. The inquest began in 2019, and in 2022, charges were brought under the International Crimes Act. Judge Kanyi Kimondo affirmed Kenyan courts’ jurisdiction over these cases, rejecting defence arguments against the court’s authority. This ruling was seen as a significant move towards justice, especially for victims of the 2017 violence. The court also issued a warrant for an officer who failed to appear and set 3 October 2024, for the accused to plead. This case marks the first instance of senior police officers in Kenya facing charges under the International Crimes Act, emphasising command responsibility for their subordinates’ actions. Human rights groups including Amnesty International, and victims’ families welcomed the decision, viewing it as a crucial step towards accountability and justice.
UK: Labour Government Drops Opposition to ICC Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu
On 26 July 2024, UK Labour party announced it would drop opposition to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite pressure from Washington. Downing Street stated that the government would not challenge the ICC’s jurisdiction, making it more likely the court will grant Prosecutor Karim Khan’s request. This marks a significant shift in the UK’s Middle East policy. Further changes are expected, including a review of Israel’s compliance with international law. Foreign Secretary David Lammy signalled potential restrictions on some arms sales to Israel. Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had intended to challenge the ICC’s jurisdiction. Israel and the US pressured the UK to maintain its objection. Pro-Palestinian organisations welcomed the shift. Zaki Sarraf of the International Centre for Justice for Palestinians said: “Respecting the jurisdiction and independence of the ICC is the least the Labour government can do to demonstrate a genuine commitment to justice and accountability.” Lammy also announced the UK would restore funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), overturning the previous government’s suspension. He is also reviewing whether Israel is breaking international law, with potential restrictions on “offensive” weapons.
International Peace & Security Section
UN: Yemen Envoy Warns of Escalation of Tensions in the Red Sea
On 23 July 2024, the UN envoy of Yemen, Hans Grundberg, underlined the escalation of tensions of conflicts in the Red Sea, Israel and inside the country, which has spread towards the region. Before the UN Security Council briefing in question, the Houthi had been targeting commercial shipping and Israel retaliated through air strikes directed at Yemen. The combat between the Houthi and Israel (especially on Yemen’s port of Hodeidah and its oil and power facilities) is moving towards a “new and dangerous level” of violence, Grundberg added. During these attacks, trade has been delayed and the commercial ships have been sunk and damaged and civilians died. The crew of the Galaxy Leader, a cargo ship, is still captivated by the Houthis since the November 2023 hijack. The US and the UK are deploying air strikes in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/7/23/un-yemen-envoy-warns-of-a-devastating-regional-escalation
Uganda: Dozens Arrested during Anti-Corruption Protests in Kampala
On 23 July 2024, at least 45 people of Uganda protested against corruption in the capital, Kampala. The police and military detained dozens of protesters who waved placards and shouted slogans condemning corruption, and wore a T-shirt with the words “Speaker Must Resign”. The demonstration started with the social media online campaign hashtag #StopCorruption by the youth in Uganda. Police blocked the roads to the parliament and deployed officers with anti-riot gear. President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power for more than four decades, referred to the protests as “demonstrators playing with fire”. The President is alleged to have failed to prosecute corrupt senior officials who are politically loyal or related to him. Musevenei added that if there is sufficient evidence, he will take actions against the culprits including law makers and ministers.
USA: President Joe Biden Ended His 2024 Presidential Re-Election Journey
On 21 July 2024, US President Joe Biden released a formal announcement stating that he would withdraw from the 2024 US Presidential election. His fellow Democrats had placed some pressure on him to withdraw due to a number of recent circumstances, including his unsteady performance during the Presidential debate between him and his fellow election candidate Donald Trump, his blunders at the NATO Summit, and a third-time diagnosis of COVID-19. After the announcement, the Vice President Kamala Harris received the endorsement from Biden to replace him and run for the 2024 US Presidential election.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/7/21/biden-pulls-out-of-us-presidential-race
UN: 2030 Eradication of Hunger Goal May Be Impeded by Growing Global Crises
On 24 July 2024, the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report was published, stating that about 733 million people faced hunger in 2023 – one in 11 people globally and one in five in Africa. Armed conflicts, climate change, and economic crises are worsening the situation. The contents of the report raise doubts regarding whether the aim of global eradication of hunger can be achieved by 2030. According to the Director of the division within the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) that helped prepare the report, David Laborde, the current crisis is worse than it was nine years ago when the goal of eradication of hunger by 2030 was launched. In some parts of the world, the goal is in progress. However, the goal is declining on a global scale. The report says that if this situation continues, about 582 million people will be chronically undernourished by the end of the decade. The malnutrition rate in the world has been increasing which affects the growth of children, the issue requiring urgent addressing, according to UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
Ethiopia: At Least 229 People Killed in Landslides as Search Operation Continues
On 23 July 2024, it was reported that at least 229 people were killed in two landslides in Ethiopia. The first landslide struck in the Kencho-Shacha area in the Gofa Zone on Monday, triggered by heavy rains. This was followed by a second landslide on Tuesday that buried people who had gathered to assist in the search. At least 148 men and 81 women have been confirmed dead, with search and rescue efforts still ongoing. Five people were pulled from the mud alive and are receiving medical treatment. Gofa is part of the state known as the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR), located 320 km (199 miles) southwest of the capital, Addis Ababa. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated the region has been severely hit by the short seasonal rains between April and May 2024, this has led to flooding and mass displacement. In May 2024, floods affected over 19,000 people in several regions, displacing over a thousand and causing damage to livelihoods and infrastructure. The southern region has previously experienced landslides – back in 2018 two separate landslides killed at least 32 people. The flooding and landslides occurred even as other parts of the country are facing severe drought. This has driven traditional herding communities to look at alternative food production methods. The UN reports that millions in Ethiopia face malnutrition due to climate-related challenges.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/7/23/dozens-killed-in-twin-ethiopia-landslides
Slovakia: New F-16 Fighter Jets Arrive in Slovakia from the US
On 23 July 2024, it was reported that Slovakia received the first two of 14 new F-16 fighter jets from the US after delivery was delayed by two years due to the coronavirus pandemic. President Peter Pellegrini stated the arrival would “significantly contribute to the increase of defence capabilities” of Slovakia. In 2018, Pellegrini was the Prime Minister when the $1.8 billion deal was signed to purchase 14 US F-16 Block 70/72 fighter jets to replace the outdated Soviet-made MiG-29 jets. In 2022, under the previous government, Slovakia grounded its MiG-29 jets due to lack of spare parts and the shortage of expertise to maintain them after Russian operators returned home following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Last year, the government agreed to give its 13 MiG-29s to Ukraine, becoming the second NATO member country to respond to Ukraine’s plea for military assistance to help defend against Russia’s invasion. Up until now, Slovakia had relied on fellow NATO members Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary to guard Slovakian airspace. The new Slovakian government led by Prime Minister Robert Fico has condemned the donation of the jets to Ukraine and has threatened legal action. He also opposes military support for Ukraine and EU sanctions on Russia.
https://apnews.com/article/slovakia-us-f16s-fico-pellegrini-d03f4c7171fdc42ec5b7c530132284c9
Gaza: 150,000 People Fled Khan Younis After Evacuation Order
On 23 July 2024, it was reported 150,000 people fled parts of Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip following an Israeli evacuation order was issued on Monday. The United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) aired concerns about the short period between the dropping of leaflets announcing the evacuation order and the military onslaught. They stated this created “significant risks” to those fleeing. The OCHA outlined that evacuation orders profoundly affect people’s lives and force them into areas with limited access to shelter, health, sanitation or other life-saving humanitarian assistance. Evacuation orders also impede humanitarian operations. Over nine months into the war, vast areas of Gaza lie in ruin, with shortages of food, clean water and medicine. Nearly 39,000 Palestinians have been killed, and over 89,000 injured according to local health authorities. Israel is accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice and in their latest ruling ordered an immediate cease to the Israeli military operation in the city of Rafah. One million Palestinian people had sought refuge in Rafah before it was invaded on 6 May 2024.
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/150-000-people-fled-areas-in-khan-younis-on-july-22-un/3283512
UK-Germany: Joint Defence Declaration Signed to Boost Military Cooperation
On 24 July 2024, the UK and Germany signed a joint defence declaration aimed to strengthen their defence industries, bolster European security and support Ukraine in its fight against Russia. The UK’s new defence minister, John Healey, signed the declaration in Berlin with German defence minister, Boris Pistorius. Healey’s trip also included stops in France, Poland and Estonia as he set out the new Labour government’s pledge to strengthen defence ties with allies in the European Union (EU). Healey stated that the visits send a clear message that “European security will be this government’s first foreign and defence priority”. The drive to establish closer relations comes as NATO is evaluating the cost of fixing Europe’s waning defences in response to increased fears about Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. Such issues include insufficient air defences and long-range missiles, troop numbers, ammunition, logistical problems and a lack of secure digital communications on the frontline. The UK-German declaration plans to develop the defence industrial base in Europe, promote joint procurement initiatives and work together to improve production and innovation. New UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, outlined he wants to improve defence and security cooperation between the UK and European allies in an effort to provide better support to Ukraine. He has also suggested enacting an UK-EU security pact, to include a range of areas such as energy, supply, chains, pandemics and migration.
Sudan: Paramilitary Leader Agrees to US-Mediated Ceasefire Talks
On 24 July 2024, the leader of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, said he would participate in US-led ceasefire talks with the Sudanese army. US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, said the US has invited both the Sudanese army and RSF for ceasefire talks due to start on 14 August in Switzerland. Dagalo said they will participate in the talks to achieve a ceasefire across the country and to facilitate humanitarian access. Dagalo affirmed their insistence on saving lives, stopping the fighting, and finding a pathway towards a “peaceful, negotiated political solution” to the war. Blinken stated the talks will include the African Union, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and the United Nations as observers, with Saudi Arabia co-hosting the discussions. Blinken described the scale of death and suffering in Sudan as “devastating” and expressed the need to end the conflict. The war in Sudan broke out in April 2023 and has forced nearly 10 million people to flee their homes. It has also led to serious concerns of famine and waves of ethically driven violence. Last year, talks in Jeddah between the Sudanese army and the RSF led by the US and Saudi Arabia broke down without a solution. The goal of the planned talks in Switzerland are to build on the work from Jeddah and try to move talks to the next phase.