Civil Society « Afronline – The Voice Of Africa

Burkina Faso and the realization that it is possible to win

Activists most often focus on the grievances and challenges immediately in front of them. But in Burkina Faso many do so with one eye cast back, towards the historical precedents of popular action. In their speeches and writings Burkinabè debate the lessons of those prior struggles. In part, they do so in hopes of avoiding earlier blunders and shortcomings, to stand on the shoulders of the past. Yet frequently they also consciously draw inspiration from previous triumphs. Victories beget victory.

Small Win for NGOs as UN Members Try to Exclude Critical Voices

Aug2

An UN Committee responsible for giving non-government organisations (NGOs) UN accreditation has had one of its decisions overturned by other UN member states as it seems to be restricting NGOs which are perceived to be critical of governments.

What can Development Banks do to Protect Human Rights?

Jul18

In a petition signed by 150 NGOs, the Coalition for Human Rights in Development have called for development banks to make sure that human rights are respected by their beneficiaries.

Valletta Summit: at least Civil Society invited, but too late

Nov9

Fixing a glaring omission as requested by civil society leaders from Europe and Africa, EU and African governments have agreed to participation of two representatives of civil society as observers in the high-level Valletta Summit on Migration expected to convene at least 50 heads of states in both regions 11-12 November in Malta. Organized by the EU, participation in the Summit had originally been reserved only for governments and international organisations. continue reading »

Civil society on the frontline in Expo 2015

Dec3

Brussels – An area of approximately 8,000 square meters of the Expo Milan 2015 site, will be entirely devoted to national and international Civil Society. The Cascina Triulza pavillon, an antique rural Lombard construction, will be used as a reference hub for local and international networks of the Third Sector.

Ebola and ISIS: A learning exchange between U.N. and faith-based organisations

Nov15

New York – The simultaneity presented by the outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus on one hand and militant barbarism ostensibly in the name of Islam on the other present the international development community – particularly the United Nations and international NGOs – with challenges, as well as opportunities.