politics
Showcasing the fight for political equality and the fearless females blazing the trail, to be stopped only once their hairstyle does not a headline make.
Rules for thee and not for Me. pt1. AI-Generated.
On June 4th, 2024, the US House of Representatives passed a significant bill, marking a controversial milestone. After nine months of widespread media coverage of alleged war crimes, the US has effectively declared Israel exempt from accountability, sparking intense debate and concern globally. The "Illegitimate Court Interaction Act" aims to punish the International Criminal Court for pursuing justice in the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Critics argue that this move exposes international law as a tool for Western interests, with the US shielding an apartheid regime from accountability. While the effort is widely condemned, it raises a crucial question: if the US can disregard international law and ignore its own war crimes, what value does the law hold? This sparks a necessary conversation about the efficacy and integrity of international law. In May, the International Criminal Court's (ICC) chief prosecutor sought arrest warrants for Israeli leaders Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yav Galant, indicting them for war crimes and crimes against humanity. This move prompted the US to pass the "Illegitimate Court Interaction Act" in June, aimed at sanctioning the ICC for its pursuit of justice in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has seen numerous human rights abuses, including the widespread destruction of Gaza, targeted attacks on medical personnel and journalists, and the killing of children by Israeli snipers. The use of white phosphorus, a banned substance, on schools and hospitals has been documented, along with the forced relocation of the population to supposedly safe areas that were subsequently targeted by airstrikes. These atrocities have been well-documented, making the ICC's indictment of Israeli leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity a long-overdue step towards accountability. International legal experts have anticipated accountability for Israeli officials' crimes against humanity in the occupied territories. The ICC's move to issue arrest warrants for Israeli leaders is a significant step. However, in an effort to appear impartial, the ICC has also targeted Hamas officials, including Yahya Sinwar and two others. This development is not surprising, as the ICC likely aims to avoid the appearance of bias, particularly given the significant political pressure from the US. Both Israeli and Palestinian officials have objected to the ICC's decision, highlighting the complex and contentious nature of the conflict. Netanyahu resorts to divisive rhetoric, framing the conflict as "children of light versus children of darkness," a narrative that perpetuates harmful and extremist ideologies. In contrast, the Palestinian resistance condemns the ICC's decision, stating that it "equates the victim with the executioner." International observers largely agree with this assessment, drawing parallels with historical struggles, such as slave revolts and the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, highlighting the power imbalance and the need for accountability. US politicians are often accused of dishonesty, but denying Israel's genocide and war crimes takes a special kind of cruelty. The evidence is readily available; a simple search on social media platforms like Twitter or Telegram using the hashtag #Palestine reveals haunting images and testimonies that expose the harsh reality of the conflict. The deliberate denial of these atrocities is a disturbing testament to the power of political spin and the need for continued awareness. The plight of the Palestinian people is a grave concern that warrants attention and action. Despite the overwhelming evidence, Joe Biden and his administration have chosen to deny the genocide, a decision that will indeed be a dark stain on their legacy. The Rose Garden speech only serves as a stark reminder of the disconnect between political rhetoric and harsh reality. It's crucial that we continue to raise awareness and demand accountability for the atrocities committed. The voices of the oppressed must be heard, and it's our responsibility to amplify them. Biden's statements on Israel's actions in Palestine are not only false but also perpetuate harmful rhetoric that denies the reality of the situation. His claims that Israel is prioritizing civilian protection and that the situation is not genocide are contradicted by numerous human rights organizations, international law experts, and eyewitness accounts. The fact that a president can make such statements with impunity, while simultaneously supplying weapons that enable these atrocities, reveals a profound disconnect between political discourse and moral accountability. This is a stark reminder of the need for sustained activism and advocacy to hold leaders accountable for their actions and words. The weaponization of the Holocaust is a troubling trend, where politicians and media outlets exploit the tragedy to deflect criticism of Israel's actions in Palestine. By invoking the Holocaust, they aim to silence dissent and paint Hamas as the sole perpetrator of violence. This rhetoric is not only historically inaccurate but also diminishes the severity of the Holocaust. The NYT's statement is particularly egregious, as it perpetuates a false equivalence between Hamas' actions and the systematic murder of six million Jews during the Holocaust. This kind of language obscures the reality of the Palestinian experience and stifles meaningful discussion about accountability and human rights. Republican Nikki Haley's comments are alarming, as she not only perpetuates the misleading narrative but also explicitly encourages violence with her "finish them" statement. This kind of rhetoric is reckless and dangerous, especially when directed at a vulnerable population like the Palestinians in Gaza. The bipartisan support for Israel's actions, despite international condemnation, highlights the profound influence of the pro-Israel lobby in US politics. Your conclusion is poignant: the US has the power to effect change, but its refusal to do so enables the continued perpetration of human rights abuses. The crux of the matter indeed. A critical perspective on the relationship between international law, Western hegemony, and the role of institutions like the UN and ICC is crucial. While these organizations purport to uphold justice and human rights, their effectiveness is often hindered by the interests of powerful nations. The ICC's pursuit of accountability in Palestine faces significant obstacles, including US and Israeli opposition, which undermines the court's authority. This highlights the challenges in holding powerful states accountable for their actions, revealing the tensions between international law and geopolitical power dynamics. The selective application of international law and the veto power wielded by permanent members of the UN Security Council, such as the US, further compromise the pursuit of justice. Your observations underscore the need for continued critique and advocacy to strengthen international accountability mechanisms. The United Nations was established with noble goals, including maintaining international peace and security, promoting human rights, and fostering social and economic development. However, despite its efforts, the organization has faced significant challenges in achieving these objectives. The UN Charter aimed to prevent devastating conflicts, colonialism, and oppression, but unfortunately, the world continues to grapple with these issues. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine, as well as the historical injustices in Latin America, highlight the need for continued efforts to strengthen international cooperation, accountability, and the pursuit of justice. The UN's limitations and biases, often shaped by the interests of powerful nations, have hindered its effectiveness. Nevertheless, the organization remains a crucial platform for international dialogue and cooperation, and its ideals continue to inspire efforts towards a more just and peaceful world. Yes, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has a unique history. Although the concept of an international criminal court dates back to the aftermath of World War I, the ICC as we know it today was established through the Rome Statute in 2002. This marked a significant milestone in international criminal law, enabling the prosecution of individuals for grave crimes such as genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. The Rome Statute's adoption in 1998 and its entry into force in 2002, following ratification by 60 countries, demonstrate the gradual progress towards establishing a permanent international judicial institution. Despite its limitations and challenges, the ICC plays a crucial role in promoting accountability and justice globally
By Ekeke Divine Favourabout 23 hours ago in Viva
Review of The Mother of the Bride: Climax clichés and gorgeous settings mask a generic plot.
Review of The Mother of the Bride: Climax clichés and gorgeous settings mask a generic plot. Ever wanting to escape in the picturesque beauties of nature while aimlessly wandering in the darkness with no mobile phone or a torch, sounds like a morbid plan without thoughtful execution behind it. While it is a celebratory year as this year is marked as a renewal of the cherish of romantic comedies with movies like Anyone But You, Idea of You, Players and many more, Netflix's most recent romantic comedy released in the week of Mother’s day, The Mother of the Bride tries to sell the second chance romance in the exotic location of Phuket, Thailand, yet its formulaic plot and half baked characteristic execution makes it dull and cliched. Let's dive deeper into the nuances of the plot.
By Hridya Sharmaabout a month ago in Viva
The detrimental impact of aesthetic norms on emotional wellness
What are beauty standards and where do they stem from? Beauty standards are cultural beliefs that influence social power and dictate how individuals should look to be socially accepted. These standards encompass physical features like facial appearance, skin, and body shape, and can be either innate or alterable. Terms like "attractive," "pretty," and "good looking" are used to describe adherence to these standards. It can be challenging to determine which features can be changed and which cannot. Not conforming to societal beauty standards by refusing to alter one's appearance is often viewed as a moral failure. For instance, wearing makeup is not a natural or biological choice, but rather influenced by current trends.
By Hridya Sharmaabout a month ago in Viva
How Sustainability Can Drive Customer Engagement and Loyalty in 2024
The consumer market today is highly aware of the greenwashing and dishonesty in a brand and they prefer buying their products from establishments that support the growth of sustainability and authenticity in their core principles. As many as 73 per cent of consumers are willing to pay extra for sustainable products, and they prefer to purchase from sustainable brands, according to a recent First Insight report. Younger consumers are also more likely to base their purchases on social, environmental, and personal values. They are the ones bringing about this change and are vocal about selecting brands that share their values. Prioritizing sustainability helps brands win over these morally minded customers and future-proof their operations.
By Hridya Sharma2 months ago in Viva
Unveiling the Timeless Wisdom of Swami Vivekananda for Today's Youth
I love myself despite infinite faults. How can I hate someone only with a few faults? A vast collection of millions of galaxies make up the universe. That is made up of planets revolving around one another and producing a cacophony of vibrations that impacts who we are. God gave humans the ability to reason, observe, and acquire knowledge. However, he did not grant him the one ability that would have made him immortal. The ability to find salvation and contentment in one's possessions. He created a being in man that was never static.
By Hridya Sharma3 months ago in Viva
Mirror to the Soul: Women’s Exploration of Self-Identity and Belonging. Content Warning.
Intro In the labyrinth of life, women often embark on a profound journey towards self-discovery and belonging. This exploration is not merely a quest for identity but a deeper dive into the essence of being and the intricate relationship with the world around them. "Mirror to the Soul" encapsulates this journey, offering insights into the nuances of womanhood and the pursuit of self-awareness.
By Sindhiya Belliraj3 months ago in Viva
South Africa's Upcoming Elections
Introduction: South Africa, a nation with a rich and turbulent history, is on the brink of another significant moment in its democratic journey - the upcoming elections. As the country prepares to cast its votes, the stakes are high, and the outcome will have far-reaching implications for its future. This essay explores the context, challenges, and prospects surrounding South Africa's upcoming elections, highlighting the importance of this democratic exercise.
By Thando Xulu3 months ago in Viva
Free The Hostages, Then Free Palestine From Hamas
It's been five months since the horrific massacre of the Nova Music Festival. Since that declaration of war, a lot has happened, but with International Women's Day approaching, it's important to remember those young women (and children, and elderly, and men) still being held hostage in Gaza.
By Natasja Rose4 months ago in Viva
'Traditional Ghanaian Family Values' Apparently Means Rape, Beat, Kill, Cheat As Far As Women & Girls Matter But Kill The Gays. Content Warning.
Friday, 9 February 2024 By: TB Obwoge On Friday, 5 2024, Ghana's Parliament approved a measure that would jail so-called LGTBQI supporters for 3 to 5 years.
By IwriteMywrongs5 months ago in Viva
Ghanians Arrested in Scam For US Citizenship Using the (VAWA) Violence Against Women ACT
Wednesday, 24 January 2024 By: TB Obwoge As a Black, American woman who is married to an African man, that only seems to have used me for my citizenship, I find pleasure that this story has a positive ending. Though this same scam is being used against American spouses as well, the US government seems to ignore the calls of Americans married to those from all over the world which happen to be using this same American law created to protect women.
By IwriteMywrongs6 months ago in Viva