MESSAGE: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABLED PERSONS 2008

Remove the Disability of the Ability

3 December 2008 is “the International Day of Disabled Persons” In 1992 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed it. The annual observance of the Day aims to increase awareness and understanding of disability issues and trends, and to mobilise support for practical action at all levels, by, with and for persons with disabilities.

With the coming into force on 3 May 2008 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, advocates for disability rights have a powerful tool at their disposal. The 13 December 2006 adoption of the Convention by the UN General Assembly reflected an attitudinal change towards people with disabilities, to recognition that persons with disabilities have the same inherent dignity, are capable of claiming their rights, and should be participating members of society. However, most countries have not yet ratified the Convention.

Barack Obama said, “On this day I stand with the roughly six hundred million people around the world, including fifty-four million Americans, who experience some form of disability. I share their vision of an inclusive and just world that is free of unnecessary barriers, stereotypes, and discrimination. Policies must be developed, attitudes must be shaped, and buildings and organizations must be designed to ensure that everyone has a chance to get the education they need, fulfill their potential, and live independently as full citizens in their communities. And every nation has a special responsibility to look after those who can't live on their own - because every human being deserves to live with dignity and respect.”

He said further, “The United States should lead the world to achieve this vision. But seventeen years after Congress enacted the Americans with Disabilities Act, leading other nations to pass similar laws, our leadership has faded. As president, I will restore America's leadership. I will make the United States a signatory to the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities - the first human rights treaty approved by the UN in the 21st century and a critical step toward respecting the rights of people with disabilities worldwide.”

Each year, organizations representing disabled people use the day on December 3 to educate the public about disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well being of people with disabilities. The theme for 2007 was “Decent work for persons with disabilities.” As many as 80% of people with disabilities in most countries are unemployed. Yet most disabled people could work as productively as any other citizen–if they were not blocked from employment opportunities by negative attitudes toward, and mistaken assumptions about, people with disabilities. This year’s International Day of Disabled Persons will emphasize how to ensure decent work for people with disabilities. In the recently adopted international Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Article 27 recognizes the rights of disabled people to work and employment on an equal basis with other people.

Thank you all.

God bless!

Robert Renatus Sanabam
President, ifop

MESSAGE: INTERNATIONAL MIGRANTS DAY 2008

The Best of Freedom

Today is 18 December 2008. The Day is calling for change. It is the week before Christmas and all through the world International Migrants Day was commemorated. In New York City, where nearly 40% of the population is foreign-born, the date came and went practically unnoticed. The United Nations General Assembly established International Migrants Day in 2000 to acknowledge the increasing numbers of migrants around the world and to recognize their economic, social and cultural contributions.

"We commemorate International Migrants Day this year while marking the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with its visionary commitment to dignity and justice for everyone, everywhere, always," UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said last week. "We can only fully give meaning to the declaration if we recognize that regardless of an individual's immigration status, fundamental human rights are non-negotiable," he said. Yet, eight years after the proclamation of such a day, the situation for immigrants in the United States and in many countries around the world has only deteriorated. Paramilitary raids and deportations have increased in record numbers. This year, two of the largest and most brutal raids in American history took place in Postville, Iowa, and Laurel, Miss. The vision of poor immigrant men and women being dragged away in handcuffs and ankle chains as if they were killers or terrorists will not be easily forgotten. Even more haunting were the faces of their terrified children crying for their parents.

Ironically, although they left behind devastated communities and desperate families, these raids did nothing to help control illegal immigration.
More recently and closer to home, two Ecuadoran immigrants - Marcelo Lucero and José Osvaldo Sucuzhañay - were savagely murdered by racist and homophobic thugs. "I want only to spend my son's last moments with him," Julia Quituña, Sucuzhañay's mother tearfully implored from her small village in Ecuador when she learned of the cowardly attack on her son. But her wish would not be fulfilled. When she finally arrived in New York, her son had already died at Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens.

For an increasing number of families like Sucuzhañay's and Lucero's, International Migrants Day and its promise of respect for the human dignity of immigrants can be no more than an empty slogan. In this great city, it is up to our elected officials to set a tone of civility and respect toward immigrants. It is up to our leaders to convey the message that hate has no place in our city and that violence against innocent people will not be tolerated.

Christmas, though, is a season of hope and we all can expect a little miracle.
The enactment of a rational comprehensive immigration reform law could be back on the table in the new year. During his campaign, President-elect Barack Obama promised to tackle immigration reform in his first year. He seems to be making good on that promise by establishing a working group on the issue during this transition period.

If this is the case and fairness and rationality prevail, the dense fog of hate that has enveloped immigration in the last decade will begin to dissipate. And that's something every New Yorker can be thankful for this joyful season.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in his message for the day observed that the world’s more than 200 million migrants are especially vulnerable to the financial downturn shaking the global economy. The crisis in markets has put them at greater risk of destitution, stigmatization, discrimination and abuse. Reports of layoffs and lower remittances only begin to tell the story of the human suffering that this crisis has wrought. He said, “Migrants must be acknowledged as human beings whose rights, like those of everyone else, must be protected.”

Moreover, migration policies are growing ever more restrictive. We continue to see the criminalization of irregular migrants. And all too often, migrants are being dealt with primarily from the perspective of security. There is a growing tendency in many parts of the world to subject them to mandatory or prolonged detention, even though human rights law says that detention should be the exception, not the rule.

To save migrants from abuse, and allow them to contribute to development in their home and receiving countries, we must acknowledge them as human beings whose rights, like those of everyone else, must be protected. The best way to do this is to reaffirm the fundamental role of international human rights law as a framework to govern national and international policy.

The world commemorates the Day this year while marking the sixtieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with its visionary commitment to dignity and justice for everyone, everywhere, always. We can only fully give meaning to the Declaration if we recognize that, regardless of an individual’s immigration status, fundamental human rights are non-negotiable, and the treatment of migrants, regular and irregular alike, must always conform to international standards.

The UN Secretary General urged all Member States to become parties to the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, which is the most comprehensive international framework on this issue.

People will continue to move from one place to another to live and work. Only by ensuring their protection can we live up to the Declaration’s recognition that “the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world”.

Thank you all.

God bless!

Dr Robert Renatus Sanabam

President, ifop

MESSAGE: INTERNATIONAL HUMAN SOLIDARITY DAY 2008

The key to Human Rights

Today is 20 December 2008. The world is observing the International Human Solidarity Day. The day stands for the promotion of the culture of solidarity and the spirit of sharing is vital in combating poverty. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the day for Human Solidarity. Solidarity has defined the work of the United Nations since its birth and its creation drew the peoples of the world together to promote peace, human rights, and social and economic development. It will serve to remind us about the importance of solidarity and how, guided by the spirit of human solidarity and a shared sense of justice and fairness. We shall make our own voluntary contributions in overcoming difficulties that challenge our world today. In 2005 it initiatiated in the fight against poverty.

It celebrates our unity in diversity. It reminds governments to respect their commitments to international agreements. It raises public awareness of the importance of solidarity. It encourages debate on the ways to promote solidarity for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals including poverty eradicationA day of action to encourage new initiatives for poverty eradication

In the Millennium Declaration world leaders identified Solidarity as one of the fundamental values essential to international relations in the twenty-first century and emphasized that “Global challenges must be managed in a way that distributes the costs and burdens fairly in accordance with basic principles of equity and social justice. Those who suffer or who benefit least deserve help from those who benefit most.”

In the context of globalization and the challenge of growing inequality, the strengthening of international solidarity and cooperation is indispensable for the realization of the Millennium Development Goals. To promote culture of solidarity and spirit of sharing was important for combating poverty the UN took the day seriously. The UN defined the concept of solidarity as the work of the United Nations since the birth of the Organization. The creation of the United Nations, drew the peoples and nations of the world together to promote peace, human rights and social and economic development. The organization was founded on a basic premise of unity and harmony among its members expressed in the concept of collective security that relies on the solidarity of its members to unite “to maintain international peace and security”. It is in the spirit of solidarity that the organization relies on “cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural or humanitarian character” as well. (UN Charter)

In the area of human rights, the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action adopted by the 1993 World Conference on Human Rights identifies increased and sustained effort of international cooperation and solidarity as necessary for the achievement of substantial progress in human rights. Moreover, the international community has often affirmed its “human solidarity with victims of violations of international law, including violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, as well as with humanity at large.” (Commission on Human Rights Res. 2005/35). Resolutions on human rights underlined “the importance of mainstreaming the values of non-discrimination, equality, human dignity and human solidarity in the United Nations system.” (Commission on Human Rights Res. 2005/65)

Noe Governments increasingly recognized their responses to changing circumstances and their desires to achieve sustainable development and social progress. It requires increased solidarity, expressed through appropriate multilateral programmes and strengthened international cooperation. World leaders acknowledged that the implementation of the Programme of action depended on “solidarity, extending the concept of partnership and a moral imperative of mutual respect and concern among individuals, communities and nations.

Solidarity, as a central pillar of international cooperation, acquires new meaning in the face of globalization and growing interdependence. In particular, a globalizing world offers new opportunities to forge innovative alliances that can unleash the potential for broader and faster economic and social development. Among the more important aspects of solidarity at the international level are assistance, development aid and cooperation. Since concept of solidarity relates to the notion of cooperation, common rights and responsibilities as well as unity for the achievement of a common goal, it can be applied in many different spheres of human endeavour. Just as solidarity among workers unites them in their fight for better working conditions, it can also unite the global community in the fight against global threats such as terrorism or the HIV/AIDS pandemic, or to underscore our obligation to help the victims of natural and man-made disasters.

The successful campaign to ban landmines, for example, owed much of its success to the solidarity among all those who opposed the use of landmines, including governments, civil society organizations and individuals. In the face of the global threat of the AIDS pandemic, the spirit of solidarity created conditions which made antiretroviral drugs cheaper and more available to the poor. In the immediate aftermath of the Indian tsunami the international community undertook an immense relief effort that demonstrated how much can be achieved through global solidarity. It is also apparent that solidarity is increasingly indispensable in the fight against environmental degradation and poverty.

The International Human Solidarity Day serves to remind us about the importance of solidarity for the achievement of the internationally agreed agreements, including programmes of action of international conferences and multilateral accords. Only the international community guided by the spirit of human solidarity and a shared sense of justice and fairness can ensure sustainable social and economic development for all.

Quotes: “In our interconnected world, the human family cannot enjoy security
without development, cannot enjoy development without security, and cannot enjoy either without respect for human rights…to act on that understanding, we need a strong United Nations, and true solidarity among governments and peoples working together to fulfill those goals.” “Solidarity remains a crucial pillar of international cooperation. As markets expand and deepen, we have an opportunity to give new meaning to solidarity by enlisting new allies. Preparing the ground for investment and growth while at the same time forging new alliances may unlock the potential to successful development. At the same time, we have to rebuild the moral foundation and purpose of solidarity…Our duty is to new our efforts to make the case for solidarity; to strengthen not only its economic but also its moral underpinning.” Kofi Annan:“ John Paul II said, ‘Development and Solidarity are two keys to peace’.

Thank you all.

God bless!

Dr Robert Renatus Sanabam
President, ifop

MESSAGE: INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION DAY 2008

Security For All

Today is 7 December 2008. The world is observing International Civil Aviation Day. The theme of 2008 is, ‘Tomorrow’s Aviation – a world of opportunity for skilled aviation personnel.’ The day marks the creation of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in 1944.

“This year’s theme is about the tremendous prospects available to those considering careers in aviation,” remarked Roberto Kobeh González, President of the ICAO Council. “In the next few years there will be a massive wave of retirements from the current workforce. Thousands of new aircraft will be coming into the fleet and new technologies will transform the very nature of aviation jobs. The industry will be looking for pilots, air traffic controllers, maintenance
personnel and managers capable of effectively meeting the demands of a challenging working environment,” said Mr. Kobeh. The rapid and sustained growth in air traffic over the coming years is another major factor. Despite the current global economic context which will impact air traffic in the short term, civil aviation development is expected to regain momentum by 2010, according to the latest ICAO forecast. Human resource development is vital to a safe, efficient and sustainable air transport system. Professional competence is a critical element in achieving optimum levels of safety and is developing training strategies to ensure that the future world air transport system is supported by enough competent and qualified professionals. The plan includes identifying the number of pilots, maintenance personnel and controllers needed and related training requirements; aligning ICAO Standards with modern training
methodologies; identifying activities to be initiated with industry partners; and, bringing all parties around a common strategy. A report on this initiative will be presented to the 37th Session of the ICAO Assembly in 2010.

A specialized agency of the United Nations, ICAO was created in 1944 to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation throughout the world. It sets standards and regulations necessary for
aviation safety, security, efficiency and regularity, as well as for aviation environmental protection. The Organization serves as the forum for cooperation in all fields of civil aviation among its 190 Contracting States.

In the next few years there will be a massive wave of retirements from the current workforce. Thousands of new aircraft will be coming into the fleet and new technologies will transform the very nature of aviation jobs. The industry will be looking for pilots, air traffic controllers, maintenance personnel and managers capable of effectively meeting the demands of a rapidly changing working
environment. Moreover, in spite of the current slowdown in the industry caused by the global economic crisis, prospects for the long-term growth of the industry are positive and strong. So the timing is excellent for anyone entering or moving ahead in the exciting world of aviation.
The challenge for the aviation community will be to attract and retain competent employees, to shape the next generation of aviation professionals, and training is the key. Human resource development is vital to a safe, efficient and sustainable air transport system. ICAO understands the magnitude of the challenge and is working diligently with all industry stakeholders to develop, implement and promote the training programmes that will ensure aviation personnel of tomorrow develop the skills and abilities necessary for a long and prosperous aviation career.
The Assembly of ICAO in 2007 called for a four point plan to encourage and assist its 190 Member States in maintaining high standards of training of aviation personnel and particularly those employed in the provision and operation of services and facilities for international air navigation. The process begins with identifying the number of pilots, maintenance personnel and controllers
needed, as well as the training required. That is under way. The second step is to bring the ICAO Standards in line with modern training methodologies. That is also under way. The third step is to identify activities that can be initiated with industry partners, and the fourth is to bring everyone together around a
common strategy. This includes a symposium on training the new generation of aviation professionals planned for the first quarter of 2010.
All of this will culminate in a Report to the next Session of the ICAO Assembly in 2010. Out of this process will come a global approach to meeting the Human Resources challenge of this early part of the 21st century.

In 1994 the International Civil Aviation Day was established by ICAO, through Assembly Resolution A29-1, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Organization.
In 1996, pursuant to an ICAO initiative and with the assistance of the Canadian Government, the United Nations General Assembly by resolution officially recognized 7 December as International Civil Aviation Day and listed it as an official UN day. The purpose of the global celebration is to generate and reinforce worldwide awareness of the importance of international civil aviation in the social and economic development of States, and of the role of ICAO in promoting the safety, efficiency and regularity of international air transport.

The ICAO as an agency of the United Nations codified the principles and techniques of international air navigation and fosters the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth. Its headquarters are located in the Quartier International of Montreal, Canada. The ICAO Council adopts standards and recommended practices concerning air navigation, prevention of unlawful interference, and facilitation of border-crossing procedures for international civil aviation. It also defined the protocols for air accident investigation followed by transport safety authorities in countries signatory to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, commonly known as the Chicago Convention. The ICAO should not be confused with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), a trade organization for airlines also headquartered in Montreal, or with the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), an organization for Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP's) with its headquarters at Schiphol airport in the Netherlands.

Thank you all.

God bless!

Dr Robert Renatus Sanabam
President, ifop

MESSAGE: UN DAY FOR SOUTH-SOUTH COOPERATION 2008

Today is 19 December 2008. We send our good wishes to the the UNDP for promoting, coordinating and supporting South-South and triangular cooperation on a Global and United Nations system-wide basis. It aims to find a Policy Dialogue And Development.

This focus area offers a platform to support policy development and dialogue, and follow-up to major intergovernmental conferences, with a particular emphasis on mainstreaming South-South cooperation as a driver of development effectiveness.

Evolution: The evolution of Policy Making is the Key Milestones. The concept of Technical Cooperation among Developing Countries (TCDC) has evolved since its definition in the Buenos Aires Plan of Action, in 1975. The outcomes of the High Level Committee (HLC) meetings since 1980 have guided the focus of our work. In the timeline below, you can browse through major resolutions and references of the history of policy making for South-South Cooperation.

In 2001 the following five main objectives were focused: 1) Building stronger South institutions at the global level.2) Bridging the knowledge and information gap.3) Building broad-based partnerships.4) Mobilizing global support for South-South cooperation.
5) Bridging knowledge and information gap.

Greater collaboration and coordination between United Nations Agencies Focal points was decided in an effort to promote South-South cooperation. It decided to systematize the documentation and dissemination of successful practices of South-South cooperation, strengthening information systems and databases of the United Nations system. It gave report of the High-level Committee on South-South Cooperation Meeting Minutes UN Inter-Agency Meeting.

Thank you all.

God bless those who cooperate themselves.


Dr Robert Renatus Sanabam

President, ifop

MESSAGE: INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION DAY 2008

The World Is Corrupted Still!

Today is 9 December 2008. The global Convention against Corruption can help restore battered confidence in international financial markets, but only if bankers and leaders respect its principles. Corruption destroys jobs, productivity and markets in the developed world and robs the very poorest of development aid. On December 10 the Chairperson of the Anti-Corruption Commission, Aum Naten Zangmo said everybody must change culturally and behaviorally to uphold the notion of zero tolerance to corruption in country. It must be made risky and costly to corrupt people. She appealed the governments of the world to observe the International Anti-Corruption Day.

Definition: It is the act or process of corrupting and also the state of being corrupt or decay; rot. Other meanings are bestiality, depravity, flagitiousness, immorality, perversion, turpitude, vice, villainous ness, villainy, wickedness, corruptness, dishonesty, improbity, barbarism, solecism or vulgarism. The World Bank defined as "the extent to which power is exercised for private gain, including both petty and grand forms of corruption, as well as 'capture' of the state by elites and private interests."

Information: Corruption affects the lives of people at all levels. It hampers the achievement of the national and Millennium Development Goals. Everybody must take part in preventing corruption. We must organize marathon to fight against corruption. The least corrupt ten countries in 2007 were Denmark, Finland, New Zealand, Singapore, Sweden, Iceland, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Canada, and Noeway. The most corrupt nine countries were Somalia, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Uzbekistan, Tonga, Sudan, Chad, and Afganistan. In the U.S., the top five most corrupt states are Louisiana, Mississippi, Kentucky, Alabama, and Ohio. In the USA there are the worst financially corrupt politicians. 3 out of 4 EU citizens considered corruption. The United Nations Convention against Corruption is the right time. Let us not forget that corruption is a crime. Despite being considered as a victimless crime, corruption does not come for free. Its costs are borne by the entire society, by every organization that tolerates it. The bribing costs to secure contracts are usually "invoiced" later and it is the ordinary citizen who pays the bill". No country or institution is immune from corruption. No country effectively implemented the existing anti-corruption instruments.

Political Corruption: The old axiom is power corrupts; and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Corruption means the abuse of a public office for personal gain or other illegal or immoral benefit. Political corruption is a recognized criminal offense. Examples are, bribery, extortion, and embezzlement. These are in office. Some forms of corruption may escape legal notice, such as the hiring of relatives for key positions, but they may not escape the scrutiny of voters on Election Day. Whenever a person accepts a political appointment or wins election to an office, he or she must take an oath to uphold the public trust. While this may sound noble on paper, enforcement of this oath can prove problematic. Very few political candidates successfully reach office without making a few promises along the way. Many of these campaign promises are harmless, such as sponsoring a bill or lobbying for more funding for schools. Other promises, however, may come closer to crossing an ethical line, such as hiring relatives or awarding government contracts to influential contributors. Almost all of these countries' political representatives were from the wealthier class, which inevitably led to a division between the influential haves and the virtually powerless have-nots. The seeds of political corruption were planted as soon as the senators and other political leaders realized that power and wealth could be equals. Political corruption often begins with favoritism towards those with wealth and influence. It is nowadays a cancer. It may always remain a concern for democratic governments, but there are a number of independent checks and balances that can root out corruption before it affects the integrity of the political body as a whole. Misuse of government power for other purposes, such as repression of political opponents and general police brutality, is not considered political corruption. All forms of government are susceptible to political corruption of bribery, extortion, cronyism, nepotism, patronage, graft, and embezzlement. While corruption facilitates criminal enterprise such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and trafficking, it is not restricted to these organized crime activities. In some nations, corruption is so common that it is expected when ordinary businesses or citizens interact with government officials. The end point of political corruption is a kleptocracy, literally "rule by thieves". The activities that constitute illegal corruption differ depending on the country or jurisdiction. Certain political funding practices that are legal in one place may be illegal in another. In some countries, government officials have broad or poorly defined powers, and the line between what is legal and illegal can be difficult to draw. Bribery around the world is estimated at about $1 trillion (£494bn), and the burden of corruption falls disproportionately on the bottom billion people living in extreme poverty.

Effects on politics, administration, and institutions: Corruption poses a serious development challenge. In the political realm, it undermines democracy and good governance by flouting or even subverting formal processes. Corruption in elections and in legislative bodies reduces accountability and distorts representation in policymaking; corruption in the judiciary compromises the rule of law; and corruption in public administration results in the unfair provision of services. More generally, corruption erodes the institutional capacity of government as procedures are disregarded, resources are siphoned off, and public offices are bought and sold. At the same time, corruption undermines the legitimacy of government and such democratic values as trust and tolerance.

Economic effects: Corruption also undermines economic development by generating considerable distortions and inefficiency. In the private sector, corruption increases the cost of business through the price of illicit payments themselves, the management cost of negotiating with officials, and the risk of breached agreements or detection. Although some claim corruption reduces costs by cutting red tape, the availability of bribes can also induce officials to contrive new rules and delays. Openly removing costly and lengthy regulations are better than covertly allowing them to be bypassed by using bribes. Where corruption inflates the cost of business, it also distorts the playing field, shielding firms with connections from competition and thereby sustaining inefficient firms. Corruption also generates economic distortions in the public sector by diverting public investment into capital projects where bribes and kickbacks are more plentiful. Officials may increase the technical complexity of public sector projects to conceal or pave way for such dealings, thus further distorting investment. Corruption also lowers compliance with construction, environmental, or other regulations, reduces the quality of government services and infrastructure, and increases budgetary pressures on government. In Nigeria, for example, more than $400 billion was stolen from the treasury by Nigeria's leaders between 1960 and 1999.

Environmental and social effects: Corruption facilitates environmental destruction. Even the corrupt countries may formally have legislation to protect the environment, it cannot be enforced if the officials can be easily bribed. The same applies to social rights such as worker protection, unionization and prevention of child labor. Violation of these laws and rights enables corrupt countries to gain an illegitimate economic advantage in the international market. As the Nobel Prize-winning economist Amartya Sen has observed that "there is no such thing as an apolitical food problem." While drought and other naturally occurring events may trigger famine conditions, it is government action or inaction that determines its severity, and often even whether or not a famine will occur. Governments with strong tendencies towards kleptocracy can undermine food security even when harvests are good. The 20th century is full of many examples of governments undermining the food security of their own nations – sometimes intentionally.

Causes: Areas with high religious attendance tend to have higher rates of corruption, due to the possible cultural aspects from that religion. For example Islamic nations, and the Bible Belt in the US have high rates of corruption. A gift economy, such as the Chinese guanxi or the Soviet blat system, emerges in a Communist centrally planned economy. In societies where personal integrity is rated as less important than other characteristics. Long-time work in the same position may create relationships inside and outside the government which encourage and help conceal corruption and favoritism. Rotating government officials to different positions and geographic areas may help prevent this. Weak rule of law, weak legal profession, weak judicial independence, lack of protection of whistleblowers, lack of benchmarking, lack of government transparency, lack of freedom of information legislation, weak accounting practices, lack of measurement of corruption and lacking control over and accountability of the government are main causes.

Election: Campaign contributions in the political arena is difficult to prove corruption. Politicians are placed in apparently compromising positions because of their need to solicit financial contributions for their campaign finance. If they then appear to be acting in the interests of those parties that funded them, this gives rise to talk of political corruption. The United States require that all contributions and their use should be publicly disclosed. Many big companies fund both the Democratic and Republican parties. France ban altogether the corporate funding of political parties. In some countries, political parties are run solely off membership fees. An individual voter may have a rational ignorance regarding politics, especially in nationwide elections, since each vote has little weight. Costly political campaigns, with expenses exceeding normal sources of political funding. Less interaction with officials reduces the opportunities for corruption. For example, using the Internet for sending in required information, like applications and tax forms, and then processing this with automated computer systems.

Conclusion: Individuals must have firm intention not to pay corruption at all levels in a coherent way. There must be Anti Corruption Commission in every country aiming at protecting the financial interests, ensuring that corrupt public officials can be investigated and prosecuted. The principles of integrity and sound financial management must guide the relations of between countries. Bilateral agreements concerning provisions of development aid must include today as a standard anti-corruption clauses. In order to improve the exchange of best practices, a network at international level must be set up.

Thank you all.

God bless the world without corruption!!!

Dr Robert Renatus Sanabam
President, ifop

THE RIGHT TO SELF DETERMINATION AND THE MANIPUR CONTEXT

The principle of self determination was accepted by the allies of the World War II in 1941and in 1942. Twenty-six nations signed the Declaration accepting the principles of self determination. In 1945 United Nations charter was ratified and placed the right to self determination into the framework of International Law and Diplomacy.


After the declaration of self determination, between 1945 and 1960 people of thirty seven new nations got independent from the colonial status in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. From 1960 to 1994 twenty five countries in Africa, four countries in Asia, thirteen countries in Caribbean, one in Europe and eleven in the Pacific got their independence since the adoption of the 1960 Declaration. Since 1994 till now some more countries including East Timor got independent. But more colonies are remaining unsolved due to the strong intervention of veto powers. And some more countries are hardly known by the world community even though they have many evidences of human rights violations by the occupying force against the unarmed innocent people of the occupied territory.


According to the UN Charter it is a rightful claim for the Manipuris to determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. Before the annexation of Manipur under the dominion of India in 1949, Manipur remained as an independent nation and the national liberation movement of Manipur started when it lost its independence in 1949. But world communities ever hardly know about the Manipuris and their rightful claim for their right to self determination. Besides Manipur, there are lots of nations under the suppression of colonial rules.


India also strongly supported the declaration of right to self determination. The address of the Indian representative to the UN on November 20, 1991 proved their determination to support the declaration. He addressed the General Assembly urging upon the world body to work earnestly to eradicate the remaining vestiges of Colonialism before entering the 21st century. He pleaded for the decolonization of Western Sahara, New Caledonia and the Malvinas, among others. But the question remains as to why India strongly opposed against the independence of Manipur even though they have the right to self determination. The conflict resolution should start from here.


Sir Dayaito Luwang
Secretary General, ifop

REPORT OF 16 NOVEMBER, 2008 FUNCTION

On 16 November 2008, International Day for Tolerance was observed at the BICPAJ Conference Room, Iqbal Road, Mohammadpur, Dhaka. Rev. Bijoyshree Bhikku, blessed the function as Chief Guest and lit the candle to bring peace on earth. Bro. Jarlath D’Souza, CSC, Secretary of the BICPAJ was the chairperson.

The President of the organisation Dr. Robert Renatus Sanabam read out his ‘Welcome Address.’ Dr. Sanabam welcomed wormly the dhief guest and others present for their valuable time. He said that India is a signatory nation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and have to tolerate the rightful claim of the Manipuri people for their Right to Self determination. He further mentioned that the increasing unrest and the violation of human rights throughout the globe has threatened the consolidation of peace and Democracy. He also appealed the member states to take the main responsibilities to respect human rights and fundamental freedom for all. He insisted the importance of tolerance in bringing peace and social progress in all respects. He said “without tolerance there can be no peace, and without peace there can be no development or democracy.” He told that it has the right to be different for all individuals and groups and everybody should commit to tolerance more than before. He continued that man should be provided systematic education to negate intolerance in the society. Finally he concluded we all should equally work to implement properly the individual rights, political rights such as right to self determination.

Then the Secretary General Sir Dayaito Luwang read out his Report on the observation of UNITED NATIONS DAY on 24 October and the meeting of the International Committee of ifop held on 24 October, 2008. He read out the resolutions adopted in the meeting.

The next talker was the Vice President Mr. S. Sotyendra Mangang. He read out in Bangla Language. He conveyed a message to the meeting that with intolerance the world could be destroyed in a second. Everybody loves their own lives and afraid of immediate death penalty or hurt in the hands of an intolerant man. He appealed to the audience to be a tolerant and to preserve peace and harmony in this world.

The Secretary General read out his paper. He said, “Tolerance is the need of the hour, without tolerance there will be no peace in this world, if we want to decrease social problems, it is inevitable to increase social awareness of practicing tolerance with education.”

Mr Pari Chingtham, Member of International Committee, ifop presented his paper. He clearly told that tolerance is greatly emphasized by all religions and everyone should cultivate by heart and soul from childhood. He also condemned seriously the oppression of indigenous people and minorities across the world including the situation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. He also expressed his unwanted plea of enforcing the Armed Forces Special Power Acts, 1958 (AFSPA) in Manipur and other North-East states of India.

In the next move Ms Mercy Sanabam, Secretary Finance, ifop, delivered his paper “Financial Tolerance”. She said that the risk level of tolerance depends on the planning of the investor or stock broker. If one wants to reduce the risk level of tolerance he or she should plan properly by taking time and using right strategy. Finally she emphasized on saving money to achieve long term or short term financial goals and to contribute money to the organization voluntarily to achieve the aims of the organization.

Rev. Bijoyshree Bhikku finally delivered his valuable speech relating to the celebration and also mentioned precious teachings of Gautama Buddha. Peace will be attained only after we are free from the illusion of worldly pleasure. Budha taught Five Aggregate and Eight Fold Path.

Then Bro. Jarlath D’Souza, CSC delivered his valuable speech. In his speech he supported the organization. He compared the Manipur issue with the Chittagong Hill Tract. He also narrated his valuable experiences of the Chakma people in the Hill Tract.

President of the organization delivered his Vote of Thanks. Rev. Bijoyshree Bhikku closed the function after saying a chain prayer.

We had then light refreshment with water and apples. After the refreshment we departed.

Mr Leon Sanabam took photographs of the occasion.

The meeting started from 6 pm sharp and closed at 8 pm. Mercy Sanabam conducted the meeting.

Sir Dayaito Luwang
Secretary General, ifop

ইন্টারনেশনেল ফেলোশীপ অফ পিস (ifop)

শরৎতের এই পড়ন- বিকেলের মনিপুরি জাতির ঐতিহাসিক এইদিনে অদ্যকার মহতি অনুষ্টানের মান্যবর চেয়ারপারসন উপসি'ত শ্রদ্ধেয় গুরুজন সম্মানিত ভাই ও বোনেরা শ্রেণীভেদে আমার সালাম , আদাব, নমস্কার ।অর্থবিত্ত যদি কোন ব্যক্তির শ্রেষ্টত্বেও প্রমান না হয় তাহলে কেবল অর্থবিত্ত কোন জাতির শ্রেষ্টত্বের মাপকাঠি হতে পারেনা । শ্রেষ্টত্বেও মাপকাঠি বহুমাত্রিক। উন্নত সাংস্কৃতিক ঐতিহ্য তার অন্যতম । উন্নত সাংস্কৃতিক উত্তরাধিকার একটি জাতিগোষ্ঠীর উন্নত মননশীলতার স্বাকখর বহন করে। প্রান-বাসী মনিপুরি জনগোষ্ঠী যুগ যুগ ধরে যে উন্নত সাংস্কৃতিক ঐতিহ্য, সৃজন, লালন , ধারন ও বহন করে চলেছে । মনিপুরি নৃত্য কলা উপমহাদেশের ঐতিহ্যের এক অমূল্য সংযোজন। যে জাতি জগৎকে এমন মহামূল্য মনিহার উপহার দিতে পারে সেই জাতিকে খাটো করে দেখা একেবারে সমীচিন নয়। সমাজ সাংস্কৃতিকর এক শিক্‌্রানবীশ শিক্‌খার্থী হিসাবে আমি কেবল নিত্য নতুন ঐতিহাসিক ঘটনা প্রবাহ ও বাস-বতার নিরীক্‌েখ সত্য উদঘাটনের স্পৃহা অনেক আগে থেকেই । তাই শিকড়ের সন্ধ্যানে অনুসন্ধিৎসার জালে জড়িয়ে পরেছে। ঐতিহাসিক ঘটনা প্রবাহে এক সন্ধিখনে মনিপরিদের নিজস্ব রাষ্ট্র মনিপুর ছেড়ে বিশ্বের বিভিন্ন জায়গায় সরিয়ে পড়ে। ব্রর্ম্মা মনিপুর যুদ্ধ এর প্রেক্‌খাপদ হিসাবে উল্লেখ্য করা যায়। প্রায় তিনশত বৎসর যাবৎ বাংলাদেশে মনিপুরীদের বসবাস। ভ্রাতৃ প্রতিম জনগনের সাথে সুখে দুখে অংশিদারিত্ব হয়ে আজ বাংলাদেশের মনিপুরীরা পরিপূর্ণ ভাবে বাংলাদেশী এবং বাংলাদেশের নাগরিক। পরমপরিক্রমায় মনিপুর বাজ্য রাজতন্ত্র্র অবিধায় অভিসিক্ত ছিল । পর পর ৮৬ জন রাজা রাজ সিংহাসনে বসে রাজ্য শাসনের উজ্জ্বল ইতিহাস মনিপুরীদের রয়েছে। ১৮৯১ খৃ: এ্যাংলো মনিপুর যুদ্ধে মনিপুরীরা পরাজিত হয়ে বৃটিশ কলোনীর ছত্র ছায়ায় দাসত্বের জীবন অতিবাহিত করার পর ১৯২৬ খ্র: আবার নিজস্ব স্বাধীনতা ফিরে পায়। ১৯৪৯ সালের ১৫ই অক্টোবর দূর্বল এক মুর্হুতে জোর পূর্বক ইন্ডিয়ান কলোনীতে অনর্-ভূক্ত করেন। ইতিহাসে সেই নির্মম ১৫ই অক্টোবরকে ুরভড়ঢ়চ বিবেক জাগ্রত দিবস হিসেবে পরিচিতি দিতে চাই। যদিও মনিপুরের বিভিন্ন রাজনীতি অঙ্গ সংগঠন দিনটিকে কাল দিবস হিসেবে আক্‌খায়ীত করেছেন। পরম পুজনীয় অহিংসার স্রষ্টা জাতীর জনক, ভারত বাসীর ধূমকেতু উজ্জ্বল নক্‌থত্রের দেশে ৫০ বৎসর ধরে আর্ম স্পেশাল পাওয়ার এ্যাক্ট প্রর্বতন করে মনিপুরের নিরীহ প্রজাদেরকে গণহত্যা চালিয়ে গান্ধিজির অহিংসার আদর্শকে পদদলিত করেছে যা আদৌ কাম্য নয়। ১৫ই অক্টোবরের মনিপুরের নিরীহ জণগন সমৃদ্ধশালী, আইনের শাসন , সভ্যতা উন্নত সাংষকৃতির এবং আরও অনেক কিছু আশা করেছিল । পরিনামে প্রায় ২৫ হাজার ণিরীহ জনগন গনহত্যার স্বীকার - এবং প্রতিনিয়ত আইন বতিভূত হত্যাকান্ড, ধর্ষন, রাহাজানি, ক্রসফায়ারের নামক ভয়ংকর মানবতা ও মানবাধিকার বিরোধী কার্য়কলাপ মনিপুরবাসীকে ভাবিয়ে তুলেছে যাহা আনর্-জাতিক অঙ্গনে গ্রহণ যোগ্যতা নেই। মনিপুর বাসী নতুন করে স্বাধীনতা সংগ্রামে জরিয়ে পড়েনি তারা শুধু হারানো সার্বভেীমত্ব ফিরে পেতে চাই। আজ সেই ঐতিহাসিক ১৫ই অক্টোবর ( ১৯৪৯ ) মনিপুরীরা কালো দিবস হিসাবে আথ্যায়িত করেছে আমরা ifopুবিবেক জাগ্রত দিবস” হিসাবে পরিচিতি দিতে চাই। আজকের এই শুভ দিনে ifop রাষ্ট্র , সরকার, স্বাধীনতাকামী উভয় পকখকে মানবতা ও মানবাধিকার পরিপন'ী সকল কার্য বন্ধসহ নিরীহ জনগণের জীবন রকখার আহব্বান জানাচ্ছি । ifop শানি-তে বিশ্বাসী । শানি-র প্রহরী হিসাবে আনর্-জাতিক আইনে স্বীকৃত সকল আন্দোলনকারীকে শ্রদ্ধা করি , স্বাগত জানাই । অহিংসা আন্দোলনে জীবন উৎসর্গ করতে দ্বিধাবোধ করব না । বিশ্ব শানি- কামনায় ifop।

ধন্যবাদ

শোরেনশংবম সত্যেন
ভাইস প্রেসিডেন্ট, ifop

RELIGION AND PEACE

Religion is simply a discipline of peace, an ideology of peace. Someone is very aptly remarked that religion is peace and peace is religion. Without peace there is no religion. And also, without religion there is no peace. I hope that these discussions and consultations produce something very substantial, which will prove helpful in the building of a peaceful world I hope and pray that there will emerge some practical formula towards peace. God willing, we shall be able to contribute something very constructive for the betterment of humanity.

The theory of religion or doctrine emerged to organize the unruly negative nature of human beings and to lead to the civilize manner of society. In these theories Peace is inherent when it becomes birth. No religion has ever taught of destruction or annihilation of human beings. Every doctrine is base on Peace, Love and Service. But nowadays the spiritual nature of religion is converted into political game-plan by some politicians and it stained true faces of religion.

Now I would like to give a brief description of the major religions of the world. Let’s take Hinduism first, as it is the most ancient religion. Everyone who has studied Hinduism will agree that Hinduism in itself is a philosophy of peace. The basic concept of Hinduism is that Truth is one and that different religions are only different manifestations of the same truth. The concept was termed by a great religious scholar Sarwa Dharma Sambhawa. So Hinduism is nothing but a philosophy of peace. Some scholars like Arnold Toynbee have pointed out that this concept of Hinduism generates a spirit of mutual coexistence. It is a philosophy of live and let live. As the great Hindu philosopher Vivekananda put it. “Follow one, hate none.” This kind of respect is just another name for peaceful living.

Now take the case of Christianity. Christianity is also a religion of peace. That is why Christianity has gained such great popularity. And now it enjoys the status of the greatest religion numerically. As you know, Jesus Christ said: “I tell you not to resist an evil person. Whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” It means that the Christian formula for peace is unilateral accommodation. According to this saying of Jesus Christ, you yourself have to adjust in the face of any controversy.

Now take the case of Sufism and Sikhism. Both these traditions are very similar to each other. The essence of both these traditions is love, compassion and peace. A Sufi poet has described this beautifully in a Persian couplet which translates thus:
“We do not know the stories of kings and generals. We know only the stories of love, compassion and peace.”

I will give here an example from Islamic history. One day, in Madinah, the Prophet of Islam noticed a funeral procession passing along the street. The Prophet stood up in deference. A companion of the Prophet remarked at this: “O Prophet, you know it was the funeral of a Jew that is a Non-Muslim.” The Prophet replied: “(alaisat nafasan) was he not a human being?” It shows that in the Prophet’s vision everyone was a human being. He saw everyone on an equal plane. Thus, according to Islam, everyone deserves equal respect. Everyone is a creature of God. One can say, therefore, that according to this brief description, the formula for peace according to Hinduism is mutual coexistence. And formula for peace according to Buddhism and Jainism is non-violence, or no violence. The Christian formula for peace is based on the concept of unilateral adjustment, while the Sufi formula for peace is love for all. And the Islamic formula for peace is respect for all. And Sanamahi formula for peace is to know one’s own soul and respect the other soul.

In the complete sense of the word Islam is a religion of peace. Even the name of Islam connotes peace. You know the root word of Islam is Silm. Silm in Arabic means peace. One of God’s names is Salam, and Salam means peace. The Qur’an mentions itself as barakah. The Prophet of Islam is described as Rahamah. And barakah and rahamah are only other names for peace. That is, peace is basic to Islam. Islamic living is in peace. All the teachings of Islam are oriented towards peace.

All the religion taught peace to humanity but why men who adopt the religion are so aggressive to fight each other? The answer is that there is a wide gape among the religious leaders. Without the integration among the religious leaders there will be no peace in this world.

We ifop, appeal to the religious leaders to bring the spiritual integration among themselves to bring the world in peace and harmony.

Sir Dayaito Luwang
Secretary General, ifop

2008: HUMAN RIGHTS DAY ON EDUCATION

WELCOME ADDRESS: HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2008

‘Human Rights Education’

First of all I welcome our Respected Chief Guest Associate Professor Begum Sharifulnessa, Respected Guest of Honours, Members and Invitees on this auspicious occasion of the observation of Human Rights Day 2008. The theme of our organisation of the next year is ‘human rights education.’ Therefore I give very shortly certain important hints on it. Our branches are going to take up special programs for it.

Introduction: We all now understand what are ‘human rights’ and why these rights are not still universal. The term, ‘Human rights education’ comes from the Declaration. We have to redefine human rights and rewrite its history, theory, and law for schools, institutions and the general public. The UN aimed to promote all the rights and freedoms of the Declaration by reaching every individual and every organ of the society.

Human Rights Education: It shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups and shall further the activities of the UN for the maintenance of peace, language, human values and culture. The UN in 1993 reaffirmed the importance of human rights. The States are duty-bound, as stipulated in the Declaration and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and other international human rights instruments, to ensure that education is aimed at strengthening the respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The Vienna Declaration declared the UN Decade of Human Rights Education from 1995 to 2004. The UNESCO has a responsibility and was a key organiser of the Decade. It attempts to promote through development of national and local capacities. It needs co-operation in development projects and programmes at national and sub-regional levels. It elaborated learning materials, publications and their translation in national and local languages.

Activities: Advocacy and Networking follow the Decade. The General Assembly proclaimed the World Programme for Human Rights Education, to advance the implementation programmes in all sectors. It promotes a common understanding of the basic principles and methodologies of human rights education. It also provided a concrete framework for action to strengthen partnerships and cooperation from the international level down to the grass roots.

Organizations: Amnesty International and Human Rights Education Associates are the main organisations with programmes to make more learning about human rights. It is the first step toward respecting, promoting and defending the rights. Amnesty International defines Human Rights Education as a “deliberate, participatory practice aimed at empowering individuals, groups and communities through fostering knowledge, skills and attitudes consistent with internationally recognized human rights principles”.

The Human Rights Committee: It will implement human rights by meeting three times a year to consider the five-yearly reports submitted by UN member states on their compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). It is one of seven UN-linked human rights bodies. The First Optional Protocol came into effect on 23 March 1976. Currently 104 countries have agreed to allow persons within the member state to obtain an opinion from the Committee regarding violations of that Covenant. The Committee can thus function as a mechanism for the international redress of human rights abuses. The Second Optional Protocol came in force since 11 July 1991. Currently 53 countries abolished the death penalty. Why not India recognise it? Where has shaken the Gandhian Philisophy that condemned death penalty. The Committee is a treaty based mechanism where a group of experts examines reports and rules on individual communications pertaining only to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. It remains disputed whether the Committee's in principle non-binding final views qualify as decisions of a quasi-judicial body or simply constitute authoritative interpretations on the merits of the cases brought before them for the members of the Optional Protocol. The members of the Committee must be "of high moral character and recognized competence in the field of human rights", are elected by the member states but on an individual basis, not as representatives of their countries. They serve four-year terms, with one-half of their number elected every second year at the General assembly. Our ifop has hopes of individual member when someone of us is qualified with high moral character and competent in the field of human rights. The ICCPR adopted and opened for signature on 16 December 1966 and came into force on 23 March 1976. The States Parties recognized the inherent dignity, equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family as the foundation of freedom, justice and peace. It also recognized the free human beings enjoying civil and political freedom and freedom from fear and want. It can only be achieved if conditions are created whereby everyone may enjoy his civil and political rights, as well as his economic, social and cultural rights. The individual, having duties to other individuals and to the community to which he belongs, is under a responsibility to strive for the promotion and observance of the rights recognized in the present Covenant.

Self-determination: All peoples have the right of self-determination. They may freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. All peoples may, for their own ends, freely dispose of their natural wealth and resources without prejudice to any obligations arising out of international economic co-operation, based upon the principle of mutual benefit and international law. In no case may a people be deprived of its own means of subsistence. The States Parties shall have responsibility for the administration of Non-Self-Governing and Trust Territories. It shall promote the realization of the right of self-determination and shall respect that right in conformity with the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations. Each State Party shall respect and ensure to all individuals within its territory and subject to its jurisdiction the rights recognized in the Covenant, without distinction of race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. It provided for by existing legislative or other measures, each State Party shall take the necessary steps, in accordance with its constitutional processes and with the provisions of the Covenant, to adopt such laws or other measures as may be necessary to give effect to the rights recognized in the Covenant. Each State Party shall ensure that any person whose rights or freedoms as herein recognized are violated shall have an effective remedy, notwithstanding that the violation has been committed by persons acting in an official capacity.

We ifop humbly do appeal to India and other countries that did not recognize the Right to self determination, to consider again this right without delay so that the peace shall be restored in the armed conflict zones. Why the UNO failed to convince those countries of the right to self determination? Some countries did not ratify the ICCPR whereas many did it. How conflicts would be resolved in such situations when nationalism is contradicted with terrorism?

Thank you all.

God bless!!!

(Dr) Robert Renatus Sanabam
President, ifop
21/10/08

2008: MESSAGE ON INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY

05 December 2008: INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY

Message

We ifop feel really happy to have this day as the International Volunteer Day for all of us on the basis of Social and Economic Development programs of the UN. This year is the beginning year and enjoy fully with the day, especially our youths.

On 2 December 2008, the UN Secretary General said in his message that December 5 would be observed as International Volunteer Day. This year marked by rising food and fuel prices, accelerating climate change and turmoil in world financial markets. There have been many calls for resources to combat these problems. However volunteerism is absent with us. Our potentially vast and powerful resource cannot engage people in the pursuit of peace and development. Yet the UN Volunteers programme deployed 7,500 volunteers every year to support national development efforts. Millions more may contribute their time and energy in their own way.

He said, “Recently I learned of a 70-year old woman who travelled halfway around the world from New Zealand to volunteer in Liberia with the UN’s peacekeeping mission and join local people in supporting the Government’s new national youth volunteer scheme. Every day, people across the world contribute their knowledge and energy as volunteers. Through facilities such as the UNV Online Volunteering service, everybody can volunteer for peace and development without being limited by time or physical constraints. The cultural form and definition of a volunteer may change depending on circumstances, but the underlying principle never wavers: every individual can make a difference in society. Beyond helping to promote the greater good, volunteers enrich their own lives. As one volunteer recently put it, “I feel as though I am able to make a difference in the world and use my skills. It allows me to genuinely feel as though I am part of the world community. The altruistic spirit of volunteerism is immense and renewable. On this International Volunteer Day, I urge all members of our global community to tap this great reserve of energy and initiative.”

On this auspicious day of volunteers the Planning Commission and the UN have signed a Joint Programme on Convergence to help India’s backward districts achieve the Millennium Development Goals by better utilisation of government resources. Currently, each district receives about $75 million per year from a large number of government schemes. However, the absence of convergence leads to poor utilisation and results. The Joint Programme on Convergence aims to address this lacuna through improved district planning, better budgeting and collaborative implementation where departments do not duplicate efforts.

The programme also provides for better monitoring of outcomes from government programmes. State governments and district administrations are the key partners in this exercise. The UN has committed about $15 million for selected backward districts in seven states for the programme. Infrastructure and expertise will be provided to state governments and District Planning Committees so that planning becomes more participatory and effective linkages are established between planning, budgeting, implementation and monitoring. Various agencies of the UN are to provide assistance in areas of their relevance.

Dr S R Mangang
President, ifop