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(Published on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:31:06 GMT)
There has been more violence in Bahrain. Prominent activist Nabeel Rajab was injured and hospitalized after he was attacked by riot police at a recent protest
Officials from the U.S. Embassy in Manama met with Mr. Rajab. They also spoke with senior Bahraini government official regarding the incident. While the facts surrounding the violence that took place remain in dispute, the United States strongly urges the government of Bahrain to undertake a full investigation to determine if excessive force was used by police
Mr. Rajab is one of hundreds of protesters to be injured since the unrest began in Bahrain last February and has been a target for his work in Bahrain. The United States is deeply concerned by these continuing incidents of violence between police and demonstrators. The U.S. urges all protesters to refrain from acts of violence and for police and security forces also to avoid excessive use of force.
The uprising in Bahrain began on February 14th, 2011, as a series of demonstrations that continue to this day. Bahraini protesters initially called for greater freedom and equality for the majority Shia population. Some protesters demands were more extreme, calling for the end of the monarchy.
Protesters in Manama camped out for days at the Pearl Roundabout, which functioned as the center point of protests. On February 17th, security forces cleared the roundabout, leaving four dead. Protesters returned without interference days later, and after a month, the government welcomed the entry of troops and police from neighboring countries as part of a Gulf Cooperation Council Peninsula Shield Force, when King Hamad declared a sort of martial law for the next two and a half months.
Protesters have demanded accountability for the abuses, and the government has taken some initial steps to address them.
King Hamad established the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry to study the period of unrest and offer recommendations to address the abuses. The report, released in November, confirmed the Bahraini governments use of torture and culture of impunity within the security forces, and offered a series of recommendations.
Tibetan Self-Immolations
(Published on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT)
[The United States Government is] seriously concerned by reports that three more Tibetans have self-immolated over the past few days, the State Department spokesperson said on January 9. Since March [2011], this brings the count to some 15 Tibetan Buddhist self-immolations in China
Media reported that a 40-year-old Tibetan monk, Sonam Wangyal, also known as Sonam Drugyu, died after setting himself on fire January 8, 2012, in Qinghai province in northwestern China. The latest death comes after two former monks in neighboring Sichuan province set themselves on fire on January 6. According to media reports, both of the former monks have died.
Over the last year, Tibetans who peacefully expressed disagreement with [Chinese] government policy [in Tibetan areas] faced increased risk of punishment, Maria Otero, Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights, and U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, said in recent testimony to the U.S. Congress
The Chinese government also substantially increased state infringement of freedom of religion in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and nunneries. Government security and judicial officials detained and imprisoned Tibetan writers, artists, intellectuals, and cultural advocates who lamented or criticized government policies, Under Secretary Otero said, referring to findings of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, of which she is a commissioner.
Under Secretary Otero noted her deep concern with the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibetan areas of China, and specifically with the abuse and forcible removal of monks from Kirti Monastery and the heavy security presence there
The recent self-immolations clearly represent enormous anger, enormous frustration with regard to the severe restrictions on human rights, including religious freedom inside China, the State Department spokesperson said.
The U.S. government repeatedly has urged the Chinese government to address its counterproductive policies in Tibetan areas that have created tensions and that threaten the unique religious, cultural and linguistic identity of the Tibetan people, Under Secretary Otero said.
The U.S. Government has consistently and directly raised with the Chinese government the issue of Tibetan self-immolations. We have urged the Chinese government to allow access to Tibetan areas for journalists, diplomats and other observers, Under Secretary Otero said. We also have asked the Chinese government to resume substantive dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives.
U.S. Contribution To UNRWA
(Published on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 19:00:00 GMT)
Recognizing the important role that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, or UNRWA, plays in assisting Palestinian refugees and maintaining regional stability, the United States will continue to provide it with financial support in the coming year, beginning with an initial contribution of $55 million.
Of this contribution, $29 million will support UNRWAs core services in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, the West Bank, and Gaza; $24 million will support UNRWAs emergency programs in the West Bank and Gaza; and two million will support UNRWAs ongoing relief assistance in Lebanon
UNRWA, established in 1948, is the only UN agency dedicated to aiding refugees from a specific region. Today UNRWA serves some 5 million registered Palestinian refugees living in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank and Gaza. UNRWA aids the poorest families by providing food and monetary assistance, and is the main healthcare provider for the Palestinian refugee population
To help alleviate poverty, UNRWA invests in training and education. It operates one of the largest school systems in the Middle East, including vocational and technical schools, as well as teacher training colleges
UNRWA also runs an enterprise-training program that educates participants in subjects such as book-keeping, taxation, tendering, computing and e-commerce. Further, the Agency helps support economic development in the refugee community by offering capital investment and working capital loans at commercial rates, including microfinance loans and small-scale enterprise loans
Such programs are critically important to help the Palestinian refugee population become self-sufficient, which is why the United States is UNRWAs largest bilateral donor. In 2011, we provided just under $250 million to the agency, including $146 million to its General Fund, $75 million to its West Bank and Gaza emergency programs, and $15 million to emergency programs in Lebanon. The final $10 million went toward the construction of five new schools in Gaza, which will serve an estimated 10,000 schoolchildren.
The United States encourages UNRWA to maintain the neutrality of its operations, expand its donor base, enhance its strategic communications, and maximize programmatic efficiencies in order to better serve refugees.
Verveer In Bangladesh
(Published on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT)
U.S. Ambassador-at-large for Global Womens Issues Melanne Verveer recently visited Dhaka, Bangladesh, where she met with government and civil society leaders about advancing the rights and well-being of women and girls
During her stay, Ambassador Verveer addressed such issues as child marriage, maternal and child health, womens political and economic participation, and gender-based violence. She also observed how Bangladesh continues to be a strong center of social entrepreneurship, which helps women become agents of change.
On my visit to a Grameen village, I was reminded once again of the extraordinary transformative power of investing in women through microfinance, said Verveer. All the women who had received loans showed that when women have access to resources, they can truly transform their lives and the lives of their families and communities.
Bangladesh is perhaps unique in the developing world as a country where women hold many of the leading positions in government. Moreover, the country has succeeded in bringing down child and maternal mortality over the past two decades. The government moved in May 2011 to make inheritance laws more equitable to female beneficiaries, as part of the countrys Womens Development Policy
Yet despite these gains, societal problems, including violence against women, continue to hamper the lives of too many women. In 2010, Parliament passed a bill criminalizing domestic violence, but critics have doubts about the Governments ability to effectively implement the law. Most efforts to combat domestic violence are funded by nongovernmental organizations, or NGOs, with little assistance from the government
Educating religious leaders on the consequences of child marriage, increasing efforts to keep girls in schools, as well as offering economic incentives to parents are key ways to help communities abandon the practice of child marriage. Two-thirds of victims of acid attacks, a cruel practice designed to cripple victims for life, are women. According to the most recent State Department Human Rights Report, dowry-related killings increased during 2010
Violence against women and girls is a crime, Ambassador Verveer said, not something private or cultural. Countries, including Bangladesh, have an obligation to implement and enforce laws, because no country can progress by leaving half of its people behind.
Peaceful Transition Needed In Guinea-Bissau
(Published on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 19:00:00 GMT)
The United States offers its condolences to the family of Malam Bacai Sanha, president of the small West African nation of Guinea-Bissau who died January 9 after a long illness. The coming weeks will prove a key test of the countrys democracy and stability as it prepares for elections and a transition to new leadership. Our nation remains a longstanding friend of the Bissau-Guinean people, and we will continue to support their aspirations for stable governance, peace and prosperity.
By law, National Assembly President Raimundo Pereira will serve again as acting president and call for new elections. Prime Minister Carlos Gomes had ably administered the country, attracting aid from international donors and advancing many reforms. With traditionally weak law enforcement and miles of isolated beaches and coves, however, Guinea-Bissau has attracted smugglers using it as a trans-shipment point moving drugs from South America to Europe. A peaceful and transparent transition is critical in helping to address this threat.
We are pleased that the government and its military worked well together recently in addressing an internal threat to democratic governance. We also look forward to collaborating with the international community in working with acting president Pereira to arrange elections and pursue reforms.
The Legacy Of Martin Luther King, Jr.
(Published on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT)
On the third Monday of each January, Americans honor the memory of the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King, a Baptist minister from the southern state of Alabama, was a leader in the U.S. Civil Rights Movement who advocated social change through non-violent means. On January 15th, he would have celebrated his 83rd birthday.
Believing, as he said, that change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle, Dr. King organized and participated in mass action boycotts, sit-ins, peaceful marches and other non-violent acts of civil disobedience
Dr. King once stated that an individual who breaks a law that conscience tells him is unjust, and who willingly accepts the penalty of imprisonment in order to arouse the conscience of the community over its injustice, is in reality expressing the highest respect for the law.
And so, activists sometimes deliberately, but peacefully and respectfully, broke laws aimed at segregating the white citizenry from the non-white, thus hoping to bring attention to the inherent unfairness of such legislation. Thus, when a black seamstress named Rosa Parks broke the law by refusing to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger, and subsequently was jailed for her transgression, her plight generated national attention and increasing sympathy for her cause across the country.
Dr. King was 39 years old when he died by an assassins bullet on April 4th, 1968. But his legacy lives on. In the fullness of time, segregationist laws were repealed, discrimination is a legally punishable and punished offence. And even as we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.s life and enormous contribution to society, Barack Obama, the first ever African-American U.S. President, marks the conclusion of his third year in office. I never thought in my lifetime that I would see one of us aspiring to be the head of our nation, said Martin Luther King Jr.s eldest sister, Dr. Christine King Farris. Mr. Obama leading us toward the presidency is like the Promised Land for us.
But in the end, Dr. Kings life is well summed up in his own words: The quality, not the longevity, of ones life is what is important.
U.S. Defense Posture Towards Europe
(Published on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:34:51 GMT)
President Barack Obama recently unveiled new strategic guidance on American defense in the 21st century. The guidance is designed to clarify Americas strategic interests in the world as the U.S. approaches the end of ten years of war and faces tighter budgets. As U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Philip Gordon recently explained, the new strategy reaffirms unwavering U.S. commitment to European security and close cooperation with NATO Allies and European partners.
The transatlantic relationship remains an essential source of stability in an unpredictable world, and Europe is Americas principal partner in promoting global and economic security. The new defense strategy will ensure the continued ability of the U.S. to meet its commitment to collective defense under NATOs Article 5. It will also provide for enhanced cooperation and interoperability as the U.S. and Europe work together on global challenges. Concrete U.S. steps to strengthen such cooperation will include deploying missile defense assets to Europe, enhancing special operations forces in the region, and sending an aviation detachment to Poland for training purposes.
In the last year alone, the United States and European partners have worked together on challenges from Libya to Afghanistan, and from Kosovo to the Horn of Africa. Diplomatically, the United States and Europe continue to cooperate on countering the proliferation of ballistic missiles and weapons of mass destruction and working to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The U.S. and Europe have been united in working to support economic and political transitions in the Middle East and North Africa, and to increase pressure on the Assad regime in Syria to meet its commitments to refrain from violence against its own people.
In May the transatlantic Alliance will take important steps forward in ensuring 21st Century security as President Obama hosts the 2012 NATO Summit in Chicago. At the Summit Allies will focus on three priorities, the first of which is ensuring continued progress on transition in Afghanistan and agreeing on a vision for NATOs post-2014 role in Afghanistan
The second Summit priority will be to ensure NATO has the full range of capabilities to ensure security in the 21st Century, even as Allies face difficult budgetary realities
Finally, in Chicago NATO will continue efforts to strengthen relations with partners around the world. The recent success in Libya showed how Allies and non-NATO partners could effectively work together in an operation
Working together, the United States and Europe will continue to ensure continued security and prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.
Drug Traffickers Sanctioned
(Published on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:50:22 GMT)
The U.S. Department of the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC, has designated three people with ties to the head of the Sinaloa Cartel as narcotics traffickers under the Kingpin Act. Americans are prohibited from conducting financial or commercial transactions with the designees and any assets they may have under U.S. jurisdiction are frozen.
OFAC named Mexican nationals Oscar Alvarez Zepeda and Joel Valdez Benites, and Colombian national Carlos Mario Torres Hoyos, saying they provide material support to the drug trafficking activities of Sinaloa Cartel leader Joaquin Guzman Loera, also known as Chapo Guzman.
Today marks the fourth time in the past year that OFAC has targeted and exposed the support structures of the organization led by Chapo Guzman said Adam Szubin, director of OFAC in a statement.
The Treasury Department said all three traffickers have ties to Colombian drug trafficker Jorge Milton Cifuentes Villa, who was designated under the Kingpin Act in February 2011 along with 70 other individuals and entities. Cifuentes Villa was indicted on drug trafficking charges in New York federal court, and earlier charged in Florida federal court with drug trafficking and money laundering.
The most recent designations are part of an ongoing effort to apply financial measures against foreign narcotics traffickers and their organizations worldwide. The Treasury Department has designated more than 1,000 individuals and entities under the Kingpin Act since June 2000.
Penalties for violating the Kingpin Act range from civil penalties of up to $1,000,075,000 per violation to more severe criminal penalties. Criminal penalties for corporate officers may include up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $5 million. Criminal fines for corporations may reach $10 million. Other individuals face up to 10 years in prison and fines for violating the Kingpin Act.
The U.S. Treasury Department will continue to work with law enforcement and foreign counterparts, said Mr. Szubin, to help disrupt, and eventually dismantle, Chap Guzmans criminal empire.
Burns On U.S.- Turkey Partnership
(Published on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:52:48 GMT)
President [Barack] Obama and Secretary of State [Hillary] Clinton continue to attach very high priority to our partnership with Turkey, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State William Burns said in an interview in Ankara, Turkey recently. This is a partnership based on mutual benefit and mutual respect ... [and its] importance is only going to increase for both of us in the months and years ahead.
Deputy Secretary Burns had wide ranging discussions with Turkeys Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu and Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Feridun Sinirlioglu on a number of issues of shared concern and common interest, including developments in Iraq, the need for international solidarity on Iran, the deteriorating situation in Syria and ways to strengthen coordination to support Egypts democratic transition, and strengthening our joint efforts to combat terrorism
In addition to stressing the importance of expanding bilateral economic and commercial ties, Deputy Burns also reaffirmed U.S. support for Turkeys constitutional reforms, underscoring the importance of ensuring that the reform process is inclusive, transparent, and respects freedom of expression so that all the citizens of Turkey can benefit.
We also addressed the historic changes that are unfolding across the Middle East and our shared interest in the success of the democratic transitions in Egypt, Tunisia, and Libya, Deputy Secretary Burns said. Turkey offers an important model of success as a country that combines a dynamic democratic society with an active globally integrated economy and a deep Islamic heritage and culture.
We discussed our shared concerns about Syria, in particular the importance of putting an end to the Assad regimes violence against its own people and the need to bring about a rapid democratic transition, Deputy Secretary Burns continued. We also reaffirmed our shared concerns about Irans failure to meet its international responsibilities and obligations on the nuclear issue and about the importance that we attach to ensuring that Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon.
Developments in Iraq, the Balkans, in the South Caucasus, Afghanistan, Cyprus, and Sudan were also among the issues discussed during Deputy Secretary Burns visit to Turkey
This extensive agenda, said Deputy Secretary Burns in conclusion, is a very strong reminder of the breadth and significance of [the U.S.-Turkey] partnership, of the positive role that Turkey plays on so many issues in this region and beyond, and of the value of the United States and Turkey working together.
Boko Haram Dividing Nigeria, Not Addressing Grievances
(Published on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:13:23 GMT)
Violence has flared again in northern Nigeria, where attacks attributed to the group known as Boko Haram have several areas in a state of emergency. More than 80 people have been killed by extremist and criminal groups in recent weeks, adding to the more than 500 violently killed in the region in the past year.
As a long-time friend of the people of Nigeria, the United States condemns the ongoing acts of violence and offers our sincere condolences to the families of the victims. We urge the Nigerian government to hold accountable those responsible for the attacks, while also protecting innocent civilians as they enforce the law.
Groups that use violence against innocents can never be considered legitimate spokesmen of people seeking justice or those trying to build a better future for their children. Instead, we applaud those civil society groups who take tangible steps to deliver government accountability and inclusive, lasting economic growth to the region
The most populous nation in Africa, Nigeria derives enormous strength from its religious and ethnic diversity. We call on Christians and Muslims all over the country to defend the nations unity by protecting vulnerable minorities within their own communities.
Iran Enriching Uranium At Fordo
(Published on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:30:56 GMT)
The International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed that Iran has started the production of uranium enriched up to 20 percent in its underground Fordo Fuel Enrichment plant near the city of Qom
Irans refusal to comply with its international nuclear obligations, including the obligation to suspend all uranium enrichment, has led to four rounds of economic sanctions imposed on Iran by the United Nations Security Council. Additional bi-lateral penalties have been applied by a host of countries, including Australia, Japan, the U.S., the European Union and South Korea.
Enriched uranium can be used to produce nuclear fuel, but it can also be used to develop nuclear weapons. Uranium enriched to 20 percent significantly cuts down the time needed to enrich uranium to weapons grade level.
Irans nuclear program has caused grave international concern, because contrary to its nuclear obligations, Iran pursued a secret uranium enrichment program for decades, and has defied repeated U.N. Security Council and International Atomic Energy Agency resolutions to suspend enrichment. That concern increased when the IAEA in its most recent report said there was credible evidence that Iran has carried out activities relevant to the development of a nuclear explosive device.
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton condemned the move by Iran to begin enrichment operations at the Fordo plant. This step once again demonstrates the Iranian regimes blatant disregard for its responsibilities and that the countrys growing isolation is self-inflicted, she said in a statement.
Iran claims that this decision was necessary to produce fuel for the Tehran Research Reactor, the TRR. This is false, Secretary Clinton said. She noted that the P5+1 group Britain, China, France, Russia, the United States and Germany offered alternatives for providing fuel for the TRR, which Iran refused
We call upon Iran to immediately cease uranium enrichment and to comply with its international nuclear obligations, said Secretary of State Clinton. We also call on Iran to return to negotiations with the P5+1, prepared to engage seriously on its nuclear program. ... We reaffirm that our overall goal remains a comprehensive, negotiated solution that restores confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of Irans nuclear program, while respecting Irans right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy consistent with its obligations under the Nonproliferation Treaty.
Taiwan Presidential Election
(Published on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:31:43 GMT)
The United States congratulates President Ma Ying-jeou on his victory in Taiwans January 14th Presidential election. The Taiwanese people should be proud of this latest milestone for their democracy.
Since the ending of the nearly four decades of martial law in 1987, the island nation has taken dramatic steps to create a democratic political system that respects human rights, including freedom of religion, of speech, of the press and of assembly.
Today, Taiwan, with a population of 23 million living in an area of 36,000 square kilometers, is governed by a president and parliament that are freely and fairly elected by its people in multiparty elections.
Since the first direct presidential balloting by Taiwans voters in 1996, there have been four direct elections. Maintaining strong, unofficial relations with Taiwan has been a major goal of the United States through six consecutive administrations, in line with the United States desire to further peace and stability in Asia
The United States has taken strong steps to deepen relations with Taiwan, including nominating Taiwan for the Visa Waiver Program, launching new education initiatives, pursuing trade and energy initiatives, and helping Taiwan to have better access to appropriate international organizations, such as the World Trade Organization, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, the Asian Development Bank, and the World Health Organization
We share with the Taiwan people a profound interest in the continuation of cross-Strait peace and stability. We look forward to working with Mr. Ma and Taiwans leaders from both the Kuomintang and the Democratic Progressive parties to ensure that our strong economic and people-to-people relationship is maintained.
Kazakhstan Elections Fall Short
(Published on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:13:02 GMT)
Recent parliamentary elections in Kazakhstan did not meet fundamental principles of democratic elections, according to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, or OSCE, and the Council of Europe. Both organizations monitored the elections. The United States acknowledges their assessment that a variety of issues caused the polling to fall short of the international standards to which Kazakhstan has committed itself
The elections were well administered at the technical level, and observers noted that changes in Kazakhstans election code in 2009 were made to ensure that a second party would be seated in the next Mazhilis (lower house of parliament).
According to the final results, the ruling Nur Otan party won with more than 80 percent of the vote. Pro-business party Ak Zhol polled 7.5 percent and the Communist Peoples Party of Kazakhstan also made it across the 7 percent entry threshold.
But the OSCE and the Council of Europe also noted that Kazakh authorities did not provide the necessary conditions for the conduct of genuinely pluralistic elections. They pointed out that several political parties were barred from running and a number of candidates were de-registered without due process. Moreover the vote counting process lacked transparency, with cases of fraud reported
Kazakhstans electoral law includes major inconsistencies with OSCE commitments and other international standards, as it disproportionately restricts freedom of assembly, the free flow of information and freedom of association. The law also places burdensome restrictions on candidate eligibility making it hard for independent candidates to run
If Kazakshstan is serious about their stated goals of increasing the number of parties in parliament, said special Coordinator for the OSCE observer mission Joao Soares, then the country should have allowed more genuine opposition parties to participate in this election
According to the OSCE, there was limited public debate in Kazakhstan and the media operated in an environment characterized by self-censorship. On the plus side, the political parties that were permitted to compete in the election could campaign largely without government interference
The United States encourages the government of Kazakhstan to follow through on its stated goal of strengthening overall conditions for political pluralism. The United States looks forward to engaging with the new Parliament and working with the government and people of Kazakhstan to implement a broad-ranging strategic partnership.
Sebelius On U.S. Global Health Strategy
(Published on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT)
In an increasingly globalized world, with travel restrictions easing and the movement of cross-border migrants and travelers on a steady upswing, a health threat emerging in one corner of the world will eventually become a global health threat
We can no longer separate global health from Americas health, said Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius at a recent seminar on global health. We need to look beyond our borders to improve health inside our country.
Cross-border movement of people and goods increases the chances of disease-causing pathogens hitching a ride. Thats the bad news, said Secretary Sebelius. The good news is that other countries are working to develop solutions for the same problems, and we can share research and ideas. This is true not only for contagious health threats such as the H1N1 flu, for example, but also for chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer, which are rapidly increasing within the global population.
However, there are many more reasons beyond preventing diseases from entering the US for taking a global approach to improving Americas health. After all, those health issues which affect US citizens, from chronic disease, to rising health costs to the shortage of primary care providers are not unique to our country. These are agenda items of governments around the world
One area in particular where we are learning from each other is the importance of investing in the health of women and girls. When you give women better access to health information and services, there are huge benefits not just for the women themselves, but also for their children, families, and communities
[The HHS Global Health Strategy] does not represent a radical new direction. Rather, it seeks to provide a new focus going forward so that we can use the [Departments] unique expertise, resources and relationships to make the biggest impact possible, said Secretary Sebelius.
Health is an issue which aligns the interests of the countries around the world. ... [A] healthier world is one in which every nation will have more productive workers, longer lives, and larger markets for its goods and services.
U.S. Committed To Democracy In Cote dIvoire
(Published on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 19:00:00 GMT)
Months after a bitter political crisis threatened the country with civil war, Cote dIvoire has made great progress in returning to peace, stability and economic development. The West African nation has moved from violence and conflict last spring following an election disputed by its former president to successful legislative elections in December
The United States is encouraged by these developments and is committed to helping the nation achieve more progress. As the government of Alassane Ouattara works to reconcile the divisions remaining from the 2010 political crisis, the Ivorian people need to see that the rule of law is working and that justice is impartial
President Ouattara discussed his hopes for the nation with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on a recent visit by the Secretary there and to three other nations to highlight U.S. support for good governance and economic development in West Africa. The United States is assisting with security sector reform efforts to help Ivoirians enhance the professionalism of its security forces and to effectively address cross-border crime, maritime security, drug trafficking, arms proliferation and terrorism. Regarding economic development, President Barack Obama has reinstated Cote dIvoire into the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which gives eligible nations in Sub-Saharan Africa favorable terms in trade with the United States. We are also encouraged by reforms Cote dIvoire has made in its key cocoa sector, which will guarantee farmers a percentage of world cocoa prices
With continued economic and political advances, Cote dIvoire can be the engine of growth not only for the Ivorian people, but also for the region.
An Update On Iranian Stoning Case
(Published on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:41:05 GMT)
Its been over a year since the Islamic Republic of Iran, after a fierce outcry from the international community, appeared to drop plans to stone to death Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani for adultery.
Governments and human rights monitors decried the lack of due process the Azeri-Iranian woman was accorded during judicial proceedings in which she was found guilty, and the punishment itself was denounced throughout the world for its barbarity. The stoning sentence was suspended, and there was a suggestion by an Iranian official that Ms. Ashtianis life might be spared.
The U.S. government continues to closely monitor this case and calls -- in concert with the international community -- for Ms. Ashtiani to be granted a fair trial or released.
Ms. Ashtiani has remained in prison, not only because of the adultery charge, but also for another crime -- complicity in the murder of her husband - to which she confessed under circumstances many believe were coercive. One of her lawyers, Mohammad Mostafaei, was forced to flee Iran; the other, Javid Hootan Kian, is in prison; reports are he has been severely tortured.
After months of silence, an Iranian official recently spoke out about Ms. Ashtianis case. The head of the judiciary in East Azerbaijan province reportedly said that facilities where she is held are not adequate to carry out a stoning sentence, so authorities are investigating whether it will be religiously acceptable to execute her by hanging instead.
The U.S. State Department has expressed deep concern that judicial cases, trials and sentences continue to proceed without transparency and the due process rights enshrined in Irans own constitution, and urged the Iranian government to halt these executions and to guarantee the rights of its citizens in accordance with its international obligations
An activist with the International Committee to Prevent Stoning, Mina Ahadi, said she believes by bringing up Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtianis case after a year, the Iranian regime is testing the waters
The international community should make clear the waters are not amenable. The hundreds of people killed in Iran in 2011 in a system lacking due process are now beyond help. But a global chorus should once again be raised in support of Ms. Ashtiani and all other Iranians who currently sit in prison in the shadow of death, convicted in violation of the rule of law and their fundamental rights.
Rationale For Sanctions On Iran
(Published on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:38:58 GMT)
United Nations Security Council Resolution 1929 recognized the connection between the revenues the Iranian regime derived from its energy sector and the funding of its proliferation-sensitive nuclear activities.
In part because of that connection, on December 31st, President Barack Obama signed legislation imposing new sanctions on Iran that target the Central Bank of Iran and, through them, oil revenues. Foreign financial institutions that facilitate certain transactions with the Central Bank of Iran or U.S.-designated Iranian banks, including for the purchase of Iranian petroleum, will be barred from the U.S. financial system. The European Union has now agreed to ban imports of Iranian oil and petroleum products
These new measures are meant to increase pressure on the Iranian regime to persuade it to meet its international nuclear obligations, including full compliance with relevant UN Security Council and International Atomic Energy Agency resolutions.
Iranian authorities acknowledge that sanctions are hurting the Iranian economy -- yet another burden borne by the Iranian people because of the policies of their government.
The United States and the international community recognize Irans right to peaceful nuclear energy, when it complies with its international nuclear obligations. Although the United States stands with the Iranian people, the Iranian regimes refusal to comply with its international nuclear obligations presents a threat to regional and global security.
The United States and its partners are determined to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons; pressure and sanctions will continue until the Iranian government changes course.
U.S. Designates Kurdish Batallions
(Published on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:59:54 GMT)
From time to time, the United States identifies certain groups as terrorist organizations. These are mostly active militant groups that do not shrink from committing violent acts against others, including civilian populations, or they are involved in providing support for other terrorist organizations. In all cases, these are people or groups that have committed, or are deemed to pose a significant risk of committing, acts of terrorism
When such a group is identified, the U.S. Government places that groups name on the Specially Designated Global Terrorist Entities List. Its assets within U.S. reach are immediately frozen, and the entity is locked out of the global financial network. No U.S. citizen or company may conduct business with a designated individual or group. In this way, the United States disrupts financial support networks for terrorists and terrorist organizations.
The al Qaeda Kurdish Battalions, or AQKB, is a terrorist organization primarily active in the northern Iran-Iraq border areas. According to the U.S. Department of State, it was formed in 2007 from the remnants of other Kurdish terrorist organizations, and has publically pledged its allegiance to other terrorist groups, including al Qaeda and al Qaeda in Iraq.
The AQKB is comprised of former elements of Ansar al Islam, and other Kurdish extremist groups loyal to the Islamic State of Iraq, al Qaeda in Iraqs political front. The AQKB sees the leaders of the Kurdistan Regional Government as traitors. The group has claimed responsibility for a number of attacks against Kurdish targets in Iraq
As a result of a May 2007 attack in Erbil, Iraq, when a vehicle loaded with explosives struck the Kurdish Ministries of the Interior and Security, 19 people died.
In July 2007, AQKB killed seven border guards and one Patriotic Union of Kurdistan security force member in an ambush in Penjwan, Iraq. And in September 2010, two police officers were injured during an unsuccessful AQKB suicide bomb attack targeting security officers in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq.
The al Qaeda Kurdish Battalions extremist group has demonstrated its commitment to violence. This designation is intended to disrupt its ability to carry out its deadly agendas or to support other terrorist groups with which it collaborates.
A New Day For Burma
(Published on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 01:08:09 GMT)
Keeping its pledge to meet action with action, the United States is moving to restore full diplomatic relations with Burma, following important steps taken recently by the civilian government there on the path toward democracy
In Indonesia, I spoke about the flickers of progress that were emerging in Burma, President Barack Obama said after receiving news that some 650 prisoners would be released from Burmas jails, including over 200 political activists. Today, that light burns a bit brighter, as prisoners are reunited with their families and people can see a democratic path forward. Much more remains to be done to meet the aspirations for the Burmese people, but the United States is committed to continuing our engagement with the government in Nay Pyi Taw
The president asked Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to take additional steps to build confidence in our sincerity with the government and people of Burma. Exchanging ambassadors will help strengthen our efforts to support the reforms seen there since the military government ceded control to civilian rule. The U.S. had an ambassador in Burma from the time it gained independence from Britain until 1990, when a military junta suspended the constitution.
Since the restoration of civilian rule, Secretary Clinton and a number of top U.S. officials have traveled there for talks with Burmese leaders, who have undertaken a number of political reforms. These include easing restrictions on media and civil society, legalizing the main opposition party, the National League for Democracy, setting a date for by-elections this spring, passing new laws to protect the rights of assembly and workers, providing access for humanitarian groups to conflict areas, and establishing a national human rights commission
In addition, the government has made overtures to begin talks and address long-running tensions in ethnic minority areas. Burmese leaders recently signed a cease-fire agreement with the Karen National Union, the first ceasefire with the Karen in 63 years of conflict
The United States would like to see an immediate end to violence in all of Burmas ethnic minorities, as well as release of all remaining political prisoners. We will continue to support the people of Burma and their efforts, and to encourage the government to continue taking bold steps that build the kind of free and prosperous nation that their people desire to see.
Belarus Violates Rights Of Citizens
(Published on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:23:31 GMT)
The United States is deeply concerned about the serious violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Belarus that run contrary to its commitments to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, or OSCE, said U.S. Ambassador to the Permanent Council in Vienna Ian Kelly.
We continue to have grave concerns regarding the ill treatment of political prisoners in Belarus
Since popular protests began against the deeply-flawed Presidential election of December 2010, the Government of Belarus has relentlessly cracked down on anyone publicly criticizing or protesting the election results, government practices, Belarusian leader Aleksandr Lukashenka or his rule.
Numerous political and human rights activists, political candidates, journalists and media workers have been intimidated, beaten, arrested, and imprisoned. Political activists and 2010 presidential candidates Andrei Sannikov and Mikola Statkevich have been imprisoned since peacefully protesting last December. Belarus has also severely restricted the activities and funding of non-governmental organizations
The United States is concerned that new Belarusian legislation will further curb the free flow of information on the Internet inside Belarus. The amendment enacted on January 6 adds administrative penalties for commercial entities that violate the Presidential Decree On Measures to Improve the Use of the National Segment of the Internet, said Ambassador Kelly.
The provisions in this amendment, along with recent [Belarusian] legislative amendments criminalizing foreign funding of [non-governmental organizations], can only have a further chilling effect on civil society and political discourse in Belarus.
Ambassador Kelly emphasized that the United States remains committed to securing the release of all political prisoners immediately and unconditionally. The United States will continue to seek to stop the harassment of members of the opposition, their families, and civil society, to include human right defenders, independent journalists, defense attorneys, and students.
Return Of The Peace Corps To Nepal
(Published on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:08:26 GMT)
It gives me great pleasure ... to celebrate the return of the Peace Corps to Nepal, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake said recently in Washington DC. The Peace Corps reluctant departure from Nepal in 2004 due to security concerns was a sad point for all of us, and marked a difficult period for Nepal. ... Just as the Peace Corps departure was emblematic of a dark period in Nepals history, its return is equally symbolic of the positive trends that now prevail.
Real progress has been achieved last year toward completion of the peace process launched in 2006, Assistant Secretary Blake said. There is a renewed sense of optimism in Nepal that, at last, its citizens can move beyond the conflict and its aftermath to seize the opportunity to address many serious challenges and conclude the peace process.
When the new Peace Corps Volunteers arrive this summer, they will focus on agriculture and nutrition. These Volunteers will be well-placed to join the United States essential, ongoing efforts to assist Nepal to address the issue of food insecurity.
The Peace Corps has played such a special role in creating lifelong bridges of understanding and affection between the United States and Nepal, Assistant Secretary Blake said. Peace Corps volunteers will have a broader, indelible impact in Nepal, just as Nepal will have a lasting impact on all of them.
Peace Corps volunteers around the world retain fond memories of their experiences: the positive impact of volunteers on the pupils they have taught, the cities and villages where they have lived, to the life-changing inspiration that hosts and neighbors gave to their American volunteers. The legacy of Peace Corps is immeasurable, Assistant Secretary Blake said in conclusion. So it is with great joy that I join you ... to commemorate the beginning of a new Peace Corps era in Nepal.
Posner On The Digital Earthquake
(Published on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:22:23 GMT)
Technology and history converged in 2011 to bring about momentous change. A year ago this month, the repressive Tunisian president Zine Ben Ali was forced to flee his country. Twenty-seven days later, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak resigned. Eight months later, Moammar Gaddafi was gone. A month after that, Yemens President Ali Abdullah Saleh announced his resignation. The Internet and other social media sites played a key role in allowing protesters to organize and bring about political change in their respective countries
Other repressive regimes responded by redoubling their efforts to crack down. They did so by jailing bloggers, hijacking Facebook pages, and in the case of Iran, requiring cybercafs to install surveillance cameras. They managed to buy sophisticated technologies to sniff out digital dissidents and silence them.
The sale of this type of technology to a repressive regime like Iran highlights the need for companies to be guided by a set of principles aimed at protecting human rights
We believe, said Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Michael Posner, that creators and purveyors of technologies have a responsibility to respect human rights through their products and their practices.
Imposing sanctions against companies who sell surveillance type technology to repressive regimes may be a useful tool. But ultimately, said Assistant Secretary Posner, no regulatory regime can substitute for thoughtful, proactive practices by corporations that must be mindful of the ways their products are likely to be used or abused in the real world.
In an effort to ensure that the Internet remains free, the U.S. has joined a coalition of fifteen countries called the Coalition for Freedom Online. It brings together governments, businesses, civil society and academics to defend Internet freedom. Together they will stand up for the rights of Internet users and cyber-activists
As part of that commitment, the United States and Netherlands announced the creation of Digital Defenders partnership to provide support for Internet users under threat. The State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development have spent over seventy million dollars to fund projects supporting Internet freedom, ranging from developing circumvention technologies to training activists in cyber self-defense.
The United States believes that universal human rights apply online as they do offline. And promoting those rights remains a U.S. foreign policy priority.
Arab League Calls For Assad To Step Down
(Published on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 01:18:21 GMT)
The Arab League sent more than 150 monitors to Syria to verify that the regime was complying with the action plan it agreed to, aimed at stopping violence in the country. On January 22nd Arab League Foreign Ministers met and determined that the Syrian regime had not abided by its promises. The Arab League, recognizing that Syrians are still subject to brutality, called for Syrias president Bashar Al-Assad to delegate authorities to a deputy to help end the brutal repression of the Syrian people and begin a process of constructive dialogue.
The plan called for a unity government to be set up within two months to prepare for parliamentary and presidential elections to be held under Arab and international supervision.
The Arab League, along with the United States, the European Union and other countries around the world, asserted that now is the time for Assad to step aside and allow a peaceful political transition to go forward. Regrettably, said State Department Spokesperson Victoria Nuland, Assad rejected [the proposal] almost before the ink was dry.
The United Nations estimates that more than 5,000 Syrian civilians have been killed at the hands of the Assad regimes security forces since peaceful protests against Assads rule began in March 2011. On November 2nd, Syria accepted an Arab League peace plan, but the Leagues January 22nd report, said Ms. Nuland, makes absolutely clear that the Assad regime has not fully implemented any of the provisions it agreed to. Indeed, the Assad regime continues to perpetrate violence against its citizens. The Arab League report calls the situation in Syria a state of severe stagnation, oppression, and injustice
The Arab League has concluded that it is time to bring the issue before the United Nations Security Council -- a step the United States supports, said Ms. Nuland. From our perspective, we would like to see a Security Council resolution that firmly reflects the conclusions of the Arab League report and reflects the various pieces of unfinished business that the Arab League has highlighted.
In the meantime, the United States supports the extension of the monitoring mission in Syria for another month. Ms. Nuland said that it not the job of the monitors to stop the violence. It is the job of the Assad regime to stop the violence. Its the job of the Assad regime to pull back its tanks, to allow journalists in, to release people from prison.
Accountability In Kenya
(Published on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 01:08:22 GMT)
After a lengthy investigation, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has ruled that four leading political figures must answer charges related to the political and ethnic violence that swept Kenya following the countrys disputed 2007 presidential election
The ICC confirmed charges against Uhuru Kenyatta, William Ruto, Francis Muthaura and Joshua arap Sang for their alleged roles related to the deadly violence that swept Kenya in December 2007, during which at least 1,100 people died. President Mwai Kibaki asked his countrymen to remain calm in the aftermath of the ICCs decisions on confirmation of charges
The United States continues to believe that accountability for the 2007-2008 post-election violence is critical to ensuring Kenyas democracy, peace and long-term stability. Under the ICC process, individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty and we make no judgment as to the guilt or innocence of those subject to the recent decisions
In the spirit of Kenyas new constitution, which embraces transparency, accountability and integrity, we urge the Kenyan government, the people of Kenya and the individuals involved to continue to cooperate fully with the ICC proceedings and to remain focused on their nations future, especially through implementation of the national reform agenda. The United States is committed to continuing to support Kenyas ambitious reform process as it looks ahead to its first national elections under the new constitution.
Dissidents Death Underscores Cubas Continued Denial Of Human Rights
(Published on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:55:33 GMT)
For the second time in as many years, a political activist jailed in Cuba has died on a hunger strike protesting the repressive policies of the island nations government
Wilman Villar Mendoza, 31, died on January 19 of complications from pneumonia in a Santiago hospital where he had been transferred from prison when his health deteriorated. For more than 50 days he had refused to eat to call attention to a sentence of four years in jail for his activism. His crime: taking part in a march and resisting arrest when confronted by security personnel attempting to break up the protest.
The United States joins with others in the international community in deploring the political repression and prison conditions that led to Mr. Villars unjust incarceration and subsequent death. In protesting the Cuban governments continued mistreatment of peaceful political activists, he was a courageous defender of human rights on the island, one who put principles into action
His death highlights the continuing problem of political repression by the Castro regime and prisoners held there for speaking out against it. His treatment in prison and the conditions that contributed to his death also underscore the urgent need for greater international, independent monitoring of Cubas prisons and its prisoners, whether those of conscience or not.
The United States will not waiver in our support for the liberty of the Cuban people. We will remain steadfast in our outreach to the Cuban people through unlimited Cuban American family visits and remittances, purposeful travel, and humanitarian assistance to dissidents and their families in support of their legitimate desire to freely determine Cubas future.
EU Bans Imports Of Iranian Oil
(Published on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:18:26 GMT)
Since 2006, the United Nations Security Council has imposed four rounds of legally-binding sanctions on Iran for its refusal to comply with its international nuclear obligations. Concerns deepened after the International Atomic Energy Agency in its most recent report in November said that Iran has engaged in activities aimed at developing a nuclear explosive device
In the toughest steps it has taken so far involving Iran, the 27-member European Union has agreed to ban imports of Iranian crude oil and petroleum products; freeze the assets of the Iranian central bank; and take additional action against Irans energy, financial, and transport sectors
All new oil contracts with Iran are banned immediately; existing contracts can be fulfilled until July 1. UN Security Council Resolution 1929, adopted in 2010, noted the potential connection between revenues derived from Irans energy sector and the funding of Irans proliferation-sensitive nuclear activities
The new measures fall in the context of increased international pressure on Iran, and the United States welcomed them
In their joint statement, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said the new EU sanctions are another strong step in the international effort to dramatically increase the pressure on Iran. They are consistent with steps the U.S. previously has taken and with new U.S. sanctions on Iran that the President [Barack Obama] signed into law on December 31st. . . .The United States and our international partners are committed to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. That is why we have pursued a dual-track policy that puts pressure on Iran to engage seriously in discussions with the international community on its nuclear program.
And, in a statement on January 23, the President reaffirmed, These sanctions demonstrate once more the unity of the international community in addressing the serious threat presented by Irans nuclear program. . . .We will continue to increase the pressure unless Iran acts to change course and comply with its international obligations.
2011 Awards For Corporate Excellence
(Published on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:38:14 GMT)
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton recently awarded the 2011 Awards for Corporate Excellence, or ACE. This years winners are Sahlman Seafoods, Incorporated, in Nicaragua; and Procter & Gamble in Nigeria and in Pakistan. The ACE is an annual award that recognizes U.S.-owned businesses that exhibit good corporate citizenship, promote innovation, and advance democratic principles around the world.
We are honoring these two companies, said Secretary Clinton, because they have had an exceptional impact in giving back to the communities where they do business. They are setting the highest standards for corporate social responsibility. Theyre showing the world that it is indeed possible to do well by doing good.
This years small- or medium-sized company winner, Sahlman Seafoods, is a shrimp farming company that promotes sustainable aquaculture and environmental awareness in local communities. Sahlman Seafoods also works to protect endangered species of wildlife, and assists communities by improving school facilities, providing meals to children, and offering free medical treatment to farm workers.
This years recipient of the multinational ACE award went to Proctor & Gamble in Nigeria and Pakistan. In Nigeria, Procter & Gamble, a consumer packaged goods company, improves the local communities water supply through education and purification technology, supports the health and well-being of new and expectant mothers and children through mobile clinics, provides a safe and healthy work environment, and conducts novel educational programs for teenage girls.
In Pakistan, Procter & Gambles humanitarian assistance includes providing clean drinking water, food, hygiene products, medical care, and laundry services after unprecedented flooding in the region; cultivating sustainable partnerships to establish schools, early education programs, support for orphanages; reduction of carbon dioxide emissions at its facilities; and collaboration with universities to develop young business leaders.
American businesses play a crucial role around the globe representing the United States and its values. In an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world, American corporations are ambassadors of the United States and American values. Sahlman Seafoods in Nicaragua and Procter & Gamble in Nigeria and Pakistan are great examples of what American companies can achieve when they do business with a commitment to social responsibility.
Otero On Tibet
(Published on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:51:04 GMT)
As United States Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, I am gravely concerned by reports of violence and continuing heightened tensions in Tibetan areas of China, including reports of security forces in Sichuan province opening fire on protesters, killing some and injuring others, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Maria Otero said in a recently released statement. These reports follow the self-immolation of four Tibetans earlier this month, bringing the number of reported self-immolations by Tibetans to 16, mostly monks and former monks, and two nuns since March 2011.
The U.S. Government consistently and directly has raised the issue of Tibetan self-immolations with the Chinese government. The U.S. Government has urged the Chinese government to address the counterproductive policies in Tibetan areas that have created tensions and that threaten the distinct religious, cultural and linguistic identity of the Tibetan people.
As I have noted previously, these policies include dramatically expanded Chinese government controls on religious life and practice; ongoing patriotic education campaigns within monasteries that require monks to denounce the Dalai Lama; the permanent placement of Chinese officials in monasteries; increasingly intensive surveillance, arbitrary detentions and disappearances of Tibetans; and restrictions on and imprisonment of some families and friends of self-immolators, Under Secretary Otero continued.
Over the last year, Chinese government security and judicial officials also have detained and imprisoned Tibetan writers, artists, intellectuals, and cultural advocates who criticized Chinese government policies.
We call on the Chinese government to safeguard the universal human rights of all of Chinas citizens, Under Secretary Otero concluded in the statement. We urge Chinese security forces to exercise restraint, and we renew our call to allow access to Tibetan areas of China for journalists, diplomats and other observers. We call on the Chinese government to resume substantive, results-oriented dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives to address the underlying grievances of Chinas Tibetan population.
More Blows To Internet Freedom In Iran
(Published on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:35:01 GMT)
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton recently spoke of the urge by some governments to control every voice or public sphere:
They want to control what gets printed in newspapers, who gets into universities, what companies get oil contracts, what churches and NGOs get registered, where citizens can gather so, why not the internet
The Iranian regimes continuing crackdown on internet freedom shows it is just such a government.
Authorities have announced new rules for internet cafes. Owners must require patrons to register their personal information, which will be kept on file for six months, and security cameras must be installed
Not content with blocking millions of websites, authorities are going forward with plans to withdraw from the world-wide web and create a filtered, national internet
The repression of bloggers and other web users continues. On January 17th, the Supreme Court upheld the death sentence for web programmer Saeed Malekpour, who was convicted of insulting and desecrating Islam, after what observers say was a grossly unfair trial. Blogger Vahid Asghari and website administrator Ahmad Reza Hashempour are also on death row after similarly flawed proceedings.
In the month of January alone, Simin Nematollahi, a contributor to a pro-Sufi website, was arrested at her Tehran home; Mohammad Soleimaninya, translator and head of u24, a social networking website for Iranian professionals, was arrested after being summoned before a revolutionary tribunal in Karaj; bloggers and journalists Marzieh Rasouli and Parastoo Dokouhaki were arrested by security forces at their homes in Tehran.
Secretary of State Clinton says the right to express ones views, practice ones faith, peacefully assemble with others to pursue political or social change these are all rights to which all human beings are entitled, whether they choose to exercise them in a city square or an internet chat room.
Iranian authorities must face the condemnation of the global community not only for their violations of the rights of their citizens in the material world, but for the attempts to abrogate them in cyber space, as well.