July 3, 2009
Minority Rights Group International

Abstract:

Despite recent changes in US policy towards the Islamic world, the latest annual global listing of Peoples Under Threat has seen the threat level rise further for communities in Muslim countries affected by international and civil conflicts. Every year Minority Rights Group International publishes Peoples Under Threat, identifying those groups or peoples around the world most at risk of genocide, mass killing or other systematic violent repression. 2009 is the fourth year that MRG has compiled the list, which is based on current indicators from authoritative sources (see How is Peoples Under Threat calculated?). In the latest listing, published July 2009, minorities in Pakistan, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Yemen are all assessed as under greater danger than a year ago, their governments’ involvement in regional conflicts compounding the risk of repression at home. Pakistan joins states including Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan at the top of the list, as does Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories....

July 3, 2009
International Committee of the Red Cross

Abstract:

This research was undertaken in eight countries that are currently experiencing or have experienced armed conflict or other situations of armed violence. The aim was to develop a better understanding of people’s needs and expectations, to gather views and opinions, and to give a voice to those who have been adversely affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. The eight country opinion surveys will be complemented by more in-depth research (qualitative survey). This research has been commissioned by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) within the framework of the Our world. Your move. campaign. Launched in 2009, the campaign's goal is to draw public attention to the vulnerability and ongoing suffering of people around the world. The intention is to emphasise the importance of humanitarian action and to convince individuals that they have the ability to make a difference and reduce suffering. 2009 is an important year for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement with three significant anniversaries (the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Solferino, the 90th anniversary of the founding of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the 60th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions). Few people surveyed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have been unaffected by armed conflict there. Those with direct personal experience make up 61% of the population interviewed, and most others also report suffering a range of serious hardships. In total, three quarters (76%) have been affected in some way - either personally or due to the wider consequences of armed conflict. Of these people: • Large numbers have been displaced (58%), lost contact with a close relative (47%), had their property seriously damaged or looted (34% and 30%), or known someone who has fallen victim to sexual violence (28%). During times of armed conflict, people mainly fear losing a loved one (54%), economic hardship (40%), sexual violence (36%) – and simply ‘living with uncertainty’ (26%)....

July 3, 2009
International Committee of the Red Cross

Abstract:

This research was undertaken in eight countries that are currently experiencing or have experienced armed conflict or other situations of armed violence. The aim was to develop a better understanding of people’s needs and expectations, to gather views and opinions, and to give a voice to those who have been adversely affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. The eight country opinion surveys will be complemented by more in-depth research (qualitative survey). This research has been commissioned by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) within the framework of the Our world. Your move. campaign. Launched in 2009, the campaign's goal is to draw public attention to the vulnerability and ongoing suffering of people around the world. The intention is to emphasise the importance of humanitarian action and to convince individuals that they have the ability to make a difference and reduce suffering. 2009 is an important year for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement with three significant anniversaries (the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Solferino, the 90th anniversary of the founding of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the 60th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions). Very few people in Liberia have escaped unscathed by the 14 years of internal armed conflict, and events are still very vivid in their minds. Fully 96% of respondents claim to have personal experience of the events. Of those with direct experience, a very high proportion were forced to leave their home (90%), lost contact with a close relative (86%), had their home looted (83%), had food taken away by combatants (76%) or had serious damage inflicted on their property (74%). A high proportion of them had even more harrowing experiences – such as losing a family member (69%), being humiliated (55%), being tortured (45%), or having somebody close to them fall victim to sexual violence (51%). Their greatest fears include displacement (37%), loss/destruction of property (35%), the inability to earn a living (29%), the loss of a loved one (23%) and sexual violence (22%)....

July 2, 2009
Integrated Regional Information Networks // United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Abstract:

Somalia has had no functioning government since January 1991, when former President Siad Barre was ousted. Since that time, fighting between Somali warlords, government forces and various alliances of Islamist insurgents has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Somalis and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. One of the boldest attempts to turn a new page in Somalia and end a famine was the US Restore Hope intervention in 1992, which however, ended in failure in October 1993. In the north, the former British protectorate of Somaliland declared its independence from the rest of Somalia in May 1991, and in 1998 the northeastern region of Puntland declared itself an autonomous state. Both regions have remained largely peaceful....

July 2, 2009
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung

Abstract:

In December 2005, the United Nations created a high-profile Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) to serve as a dedicated institutional mechanism to fill the gap in the international architecture for post-conflict response. As such the PBC was mandated to link the political, security and eco-nomic functions of the United Nations in conflict and post-conflict situations. This paper analyzes the PBC’s own integrated strategies for peace-building in Sierra Leone and Burundi, through cumulative performance reports and views of practitioners. In almost all previous and on-going peacekeep-ing and peacebuilding operations, the UN has been represented by the Department of Peace-keeping Operations, the United Nations Devel-opment Program, the Department of Political Affairs, as well as over thirty other UN agencies, funds and programs including international fi-nancial institutions and regional organizations. Outside the UN structures, several international development agencies created dedicated emer-gency or transitional units to deal with initial post-conflict situations. Like the World Bank, the Task Force of the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the Organization of the Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) prepared guidelines for ‘Development Coopera-tion in Conflict: Prevention and Post-Conflict Recovery’; the United Nations Development Pro-gram (UNDP) expanded the mandate of its Divi-sion of Emergency Response; the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) strengthened its Emer-gency Unit and prepared guidelines on armed conflict and children; and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) created an Office of Transitional Initiatives. The involvement of so many players with competing interests in peacebuilding missions means that the coordina-tion and integration of peacebuilding activities remains a serious challenge....

July 3, 2009
World Public Opinion

Abstract:

Since the fall of 2007, Pakistan has experienced some extraordinary scenes. It is difficult to remember now that President Musharraf’s 2007 clampdown was seen by many as a crisis for the country with no visible exit. Instead, powerful events--the return of Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif from exile, Bhutto’s assassination, and her party’s victory in an election free of interference—transformed the political landscape and brought Musharraf’s departure after nine years in power. By March of 2009, Pakistan seemed again to be in a crisis with no visible exit. The efforts of the North West Frontier Province’s government to strike a deal with the Pakistani Taliban—offering Shari’a courts in Swat in exchange for peace—was formally endorsed by Pakistan’s Parliament and President Zardari. The Pakistani Taliban’s further spread into areas near Islamabad brought extreme concern in Washington. Secretary of State Clinton spoke of the Pakistani government as “abdicating” from its duty to control its national territory. A short time later, though, the dynamic reversed. The army launched a major offensive against the Pakistani Taliban, and the approach of seeking deals with religious militant groups had apparently lost the political elite’s support. How has the Pakistani public reacted to these extreme twists and turns in the country’s fortunes? This report focuses on Pakistanis’ attitudes toward the newest and most drastic changes in their national situation....

July 3, 2009
International Committee of the Red Cross

Abstract:

This research was undertaken in eight countries that are currently experiencing or have experienced armed conflict or other situations of armed violence. The aim was to develop a better understanding of people’s needs and expectations, to gather views and opinions, and to give a voice to those who have been adversely affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. The eight country opinion surveys will be complemented by more in-depth research (qualitative survey). This research has been commissioned by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) within the framework of the Our world. Your move. campaign. Launched in 2009, the campaign's goal is to draw public attention to the vulnerability and ongoing suffering of people around the world. The intention is to emphasise the importance of humanitarian action and to convince individuals that they have the ability to make a difference and reduce suffering. 2009 is an important year for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement with three significant anniversaries (the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Solferino, the 90th anniversary of the founding of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the 60th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions). In 1999, the ICRC undertook a similar survey entitled People on War, which serves as a basis for comparison and as a means of highlighting trends in opinions 10 years on. Around one third of people surveyed in Colombia have been affected in some way by armed conflict there. Those with direct personal experience make up 10% of the population, and many others also report suffering a range of serious hardships. In total 31% of respondents have been affected in some way - either personally or due to the wider consequences of armed conflict. However, among those who have been personally affected, there are widespread problems: - loss of income (38%), an immediate family member being killed (33%), being forced to leave home/displacement (32%) and losing contact with a close relative (23%) Among those with direct experience of armed conflict, one person in five (21%) says they are currently being affected; among the ‘other’ consequences mentioned is the falling standard of living (by most of those with direct experience: 57%). People’s fears reflect their experiences. The majority fear losing a loved one (68%). Many also worry about separation from loved ones (30%), displacement (30%), losing their property (27%), and losing their means of income (24%)....

July 3, 2009
International Committee of the Red Cross

Abstract:

This research was undertaken in eight countries that are currently experiencing or have experienced armed conflict or other situations of armed violence. The aim was to develop a better understanding of people’s needs and expectations, to gather views and opinions, and to give a voice to those who have been adversely affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. The eight country opinion surveys will be complemented by more in-depth research (qualitative survey). This research has been commissioned by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) within the framework of the Our world. Your move. campaign. Launched in 2009, the campaign's goal is to draw public attention to the vulnerability and ongoing suffering of people around the world. The intention is to emphasise the importance of humanitarian action and to convince individuals that they have the ability to make a difference and reduce suffering. 2009 is an important year for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement with three significant anniversaries (the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Solferino, the 90th anniversary of the founding of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the 60th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions). Most people surveyed in Haiti have been affected by armed violence there. Those with direct personal experience make up 31% of the population interviewed, and most others also report suffering a range of serious hardships. In total, almost everyone (98%) have been affected in some way - either personally or due to the wider consequences of armed violence. Among those with direct experience, 45% have been displaced, 44% know a victim of sexual violence, and 37% have lost contact with a close relative. 17% have lost a close family member. Across the whole population, 33% have been displaced, 31% have lost contact with a close relative, or know a victim of sexual violence. 18% have lost a close family member. Restrictions on basic necessities and health care abound, as do economic problems – and there are also hidden consequences: fear, anxiety, psychological and ‘moral’ problems. People’s fears include economic hardship (41%), losing loved ones (20%), losing property (18%) – or simply ‘living with uncertainty’ (37%). Sexual violence is also a common fear....

July 2, 2009
Congressional Research Service

Abstract:

President Obama has said his Administration shares the goals of the previous Administration to contain Iran’s strategic capabilities and regional influence, but the Obama Administration has formulated approaches to achieve those goals that differ from those of its predecessor—in particular through expanded direct diplomatic engagement with Iran. This effort has begun to be put in practice with messages to the Iranian people by President Obama, and through a growing number of invitations to and contact with Iranian diplomats at multilateral meetings, including those on Iran’s nuclear program. The Administration also has de-emphasized policies that have angered Iranian leaders including: ratcheting up international sanctions, efforts to promote democracy in Iran, and the potential for U.S. military action. In May 2009, President Obama said his Administration might renew the previous focus on sanctioning and pressuring Iran if, by the end of 2009, Iran does not show signs of willingness to compromise. Bills in the 111th Congress, such as H.R. 2194 and S. 908, would tighten U.S. sanctions on Iran by amending the Iran Sanctions Act to penalize sales to Iran of gasoline. Before Iran’s June 12, 2009, presidential elections, there was debate over whether the new approaches would yield clear results. The U.S. strategy has been further complicated by the allegations of a “stolen election” by the challengers to declared election winner, incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and the large protests held to demand a new vote. Administration officials say that U.S. goals have not been altered by the election and President Obama, while criticizing Iran’s use of violence against protesters, has not announced any changes in policy toward Iran. Congress has passed resolutions that express solidarity with the demonstrators and condemn the regime’s repression of them....

July 2, 2009
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace // IPALMO // ARGO

Abstract:

The success of international efforts to foster security and economic growth in Afghanistan is increasingly linked to wider stabilization and development in the states in its proximity. In order to elucidate the challenges in the region and draw recommendations for the Italian G8 Presidency, an Experts Meeting on Afghanistan and Regional Stabilization was organized by Ipalmo, ARGO and Carnegie Europe on May 28-29th 2009 in Rome. Participants noted five areas of interest that could be taken into consideration at the June 2008 meeting of G8 Foreign Ministers in Trieste: 1) The countries of the region are interlinked in a regional security complex which requires a regional approach in response; 2) Constructive action by the states of the region and existing regional institutions need to be reinforced; 3) Border management is necessary to curb illicit trafficking while encouraging a better flow of resources across the region; 4) Security remains a major priority in the region; and 5) Greater economic cooperation would increase welfare for populations while encouraging cooperation and trust in the region....

July 3, 2009
World Public Opinion

Abstract:

Since the fall of 2007, Pakistan has experienced some extraordinary scenes. It is difficult to remember now that President Musharraf’s 2007 clampdown was seen by many as a crisis for the country with no visible exit. Instead, powerful events--the return of Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif from exile, Bhutto’s assassination, and her party’s victory in an election free of interference—transformed the political landscape and brought Musharraf’s departure after nine years in power. By March of 2009, Pakistan seemed again to be in a crisis with no visible exit. The efforts of the North West Frontier Province’s government to strike a deal with the Pakistani Taliban—offering Shari’a courts in Swat in exchange for peace—was formally endorsed by Pakistan’s Parliament and President Zardari. The Pakistani Taliban’s further spread into areas near Islamabad brought extreme concern in Washington. Secretary of State Clinton spoke of the Pakistani government as “abdicating” from its duty to control its national territory. A short time later, though, the dynamic reversed. The army launched a major offensive against the Pakistani Taliban, and the approach of seeking deals with religious militant groups had apparently lost the political elite’s support. How has the Pakistani public reacted to these extreme twists and turns in the country’s fortunes? This report focuses on Pakistanis’ attitudes toward the newest and most drastic changes in their national situation....

July 3, 2009
Minority Rights Group International

Abstract:

Despite recent changes in US policy towards the Islamic world, the latest annual global listing of Peoples Under Threat has seen the threat level rise further for communities in Muslim countries affected by international and civil conflicts. Every year Minority Rights Group International publishes Peoples Under Threat, identifying those groups or peoples around the world most at risk of genocide, mass killing or other systematic violent repression. 2009 is the fourth year that MRG has compiled the list, which is based on current indicators from authoritative sources (see How is Peoples Under Threat calculated?). In the latest listing, published July 2009, minorities in Pakistan, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Yemen are all assessed as under greater danger than a year ago, their governments’ involvement in regional conflicts compounding the risk of repression at home. Pakistan joins states including Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan at the top of the list, as does Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories....

July 3, 2009
International Committee of the Red Cross

Abstract:

This research was undertaken in eight countries that are currently experiencing or have experienced armed conflict or other situations of armed violence. The aim was to develop a better understanding of people’s needs and expectations, to gather views and opinions, and to give a voice to those who have been adversely affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. The eight country opinion surveys will be complemented by more in-depth research (qualitative survey). This research has been commissioned by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) within the framework of the Our world. Your move. campaign. Launched in 2009, the campaign's goal is to draw public attention to the vulnerability and ongoing suffering of people around the world. The intention is to emphasise the importance of humanitarian action and to convince individuals that they have the ability to make a difference and reduce suffering. 2009 is an important year for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement with three significant anniversaries (the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Solferino, the 90th anniversary of the founding of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the 60th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions). In 1999, the ICRC undertook a similar survey entitled People on War, which serves as a basis for comparison and as a means of highlighting trends in opinions 10 years on. Very few people in Afghanistan have been unaffected by the armed conflict there. Those with direct personal experience make up 60% of the population, and most others also report suffering a range of serious hardships. In total, almost everyone (96%) has been affected in some way – either personally or due to the wider consequences of armed conflict. - Of those with direct experience, most have had to leave their homes (76%), suffered serious property damage (66%), lost contact with a close relative (61%), lost their means of income (60%) or seen the area where they lived come under enemy control (56%) - Of those without direct experience, most have nevertheless had to make do with limited (or no) supplies of water/electricity (56%) or health care (59%) However, there are some signs that the situation has marginally improved since 1999. Fewer now report having their home looted (down from 51% to 33%), having to leave their homes (down from 83% to 60%), or losing a family member (from 53% to 35%). People’s fears include economic hardship (37%), ‘uncertainty’ (36%), displacement (34%), losing a loved one (25%), losing property (22%), and losing contact with a loved one (16%)....

July 3, 2009
International Committee of the Red Cross

Abstract:

This research was undertaken in eight countries that are currently experiencing or have experienced armed conflict or other situations of armed violence. The aim was to develop a better understanding of people’s needs and expectations, to gather views and opinions, and to give a voice to those who have been adversely affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. The eight country opinion surveys will be complemented by more in-depth research (qualitative survey). This research has been commissioned by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) within the framework of the Our world. Your move. campaign. Launched in 2009, the campaign's goal is to draw public attention to the vulnerability and ongoing suffering of people around the world. The intention is to emphasise the importance of humanitarian action and to convince individuals that they have the ability to make a difference and reduce suffering. 2009 is an important year for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement with three significant anniversaries (the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Solferino, the 90th anniversary of the founding of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the 60th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions). In 1999, the ICRC undertook a similar survey entitled People on War, which serves as a basis for comparison and as a means of highlighting trends in opinions 10 years on. The majority of people in Lebanon have been affected by the armed conflict there. Those with direct personal experience make up 75% of the population, and most others also report suffering a range of serious hardships. In total, almost everyone (96%) has been affected in some way – either personally or due to the wider consequences of armed conflict. Of those with direct personal experience, for a fifth this has been within the past year. Usually people say they had to leave their homes and live elsewhere (55%), they suffered serious damage to their property (49%) or lost contact with a close relative (47%). Lebanese people’s fears during times of armed conflict include losing a loved one (57%), losing property (28%), suffering injury (27%), and losing one's livelihood (24%). Fewer people (11%) fear restricted access to basic necessities....

July 2, 2009
Center for Strategic and International Studies

Abstract:

These assessments, compiled by the CSIS Transnational Threats Project, were drafted by members of the CSIS Trusted Information Network project on Southeast Asia (TIN-2). The Transnational Threats Project created and operated TIN-2 to examine extremism and transnational crime in Southeast Asia and the surrounding region. Comprising top specialists from the region and beyond, this network highlighted the immense expertise such a group could bring to bear on important national security priorities. Primary analysis and findings of the TIN-2 project were published in an April 2009 CSIS report, The Power of Outreach: Leveraging Expertise on Threats in Southeast Asia.Because the TIN-2 discussion questions focused on overarching thematic issues, the editors felt it was important to draw on the tremendous and varied knowledge of the TIN-2 team to create a regional threat assessment. To this end, the TIN members drafted a short paper on their respective areas of expertise. The 16 assessments address terrorism and criminality in the Southeast Asia region as a whole as well as the individual countries of Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Burma, and Australia. As the essays show, the situation is improving in some counties, while violence in on the upswing in others. The authors bring to bear direct experience with local terrorist threats, painting a concise and realistic picture. They pay particular attention to the role of local governments in fighting the threats, which have succeeded when they focus not on ideology or reframing the narrative but rather on reducing local grievances and encouraging and offering opportunities for mainstream Muslims. The lessons that can be drawn from these essays in effect recalibrate the debate on terrorism in Southeast Asia and, more generally, offer insights on strategy and tactics to countering local extremist threats....

July 3, 2009
International Committee of the Red Cross

Abstract:

This research was undertaken in eight countries that are currently experiencing or have experienced armed conflict or other situations of armed violence. The aim was to develop a better understanding of people’s needs and expectations, to gather views and opinions, and to give a voice to those who have been adversely affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. The eight country opinion surveys will be complemented by more in-depth research (qualitative survey). This research has been commissioned by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) within the framework of the Our world. Your move. campaign. Launched in 2009, the campaign's goal is to draw public attention to the vulnerability and ongoing suffering of people around the world. The intention is to emphasise the importance of humanitarian action and to convince individuals that they have the ability to make a difference and reduce suffering. 2009 is an important year for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement with three significant anniversaries (the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Solferino, the 90th anniversary of the founding of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the 60th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions). In 1999, the ICRC undertook a similar survey entitled People on War, which serves as a basis for comparison and as a means of highlighting trends in opinions 10 years on. In Georgia, 300 interviews were conducted with Georgians from a range of areas (excluding Abkhazia and South Ossetia), referred to as ‘the resident population' in this report. A further 200 interviews were conducted with internally displaced persons (IDPs) displaced from either Abkhazia or Shida Kartli (part of the disputed South Ossetia region - no interviews were conducted in Abkhazia or Shida Kartli), referred to as 'IDPs' in this report....

July 2, 2009
The Jamestown Foundation // Eurasia Daily Monitor

Abstract:

On June 14, after the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) summit in Moscow formally created its new Collective Operational Reaction Forces (CORF), Russian President Dmitry Medvedev hailed this achievement as a "step toward creating a military force to be reckoned with, truly capable of responding to a variety of threats." During his press conference Medvedev said "certain discussions" were held with CSTO countries still to commit to this collective military force and that such delays were normal, since new structures cannot be formed "overnight."...

July 2, 2009
The Jamestown Foundation // Eurasia Daily Monitor

Abstract:

Militants in Dagestan today attacked the headquarters of the police in the city of Derbent, just south of the republic capital Makhachkala and near the border with Georgia, Russian and Western news agencies reported. According to the Associated Press, three policemen and a civilian died in the attack. The news agency quoted Dagestani interior ministry spokesman Mark Tolchinsky as saying that the attack came in two phases, with one officer killed and two others wounded when gunmen opened fire on the facility just after midnight, and another two officers killed and 12 police and bystanders wounded two hours later when a car parked outside exploded. AP quoted Tolchinsky as saying the driver of the car was found dead in the vehicle's trunk. Interfax quoted a source in the Derbent police department as saying one policeman was killed and two wounded in the gun attack on the police headquarters and that 12 people were wounded in the subsequent car bomb blast outside. The source said the attackers had also shot and killed the car's driver when they stole the vehicle, after which they put his body in the trunk and stuffed the vehicle with explosives....

July 2, 2009
Human Rights Watch

Abstract:

The armed conflict in Chechnya has subsided and the capital, Grozny, has been largely rebuilt. However, abuses such as torture, illegal detention, and extrajudicial executions persist (albeit on a smaller scale), and impunity for past and ongoing abuses is rampant. The perpetrators of ongoing violations are mainly law enforcement and security personnel under the de facto control of the republic’s president, Ramzan Kadyrov. Although insurgent attacks in Chechnya are now distinctly less frequent than in the neighboring North Caucasus republics of Ingushetia or Dagestan, they continue to occur sporadically. The insurgency has a loose agenda to overthrow the government and create an Islamic state in the Caucasus. Working toward those objectives, insurgents have been using a variety of violent tactics, including killings and house-burnings, against members and supporters of the pro-Moscow Chechen authorities: policemen, security personnel, administration officials, and their family members. Human Rights Watch is aware of 25 cases of punitive house burning that can be attributed to Chechen law enforcement personnel between June 2008 and March 2009 in seven districts of Chechnya: ten in Kurchaloi, six in Shali, four in Vedeno, two in Naur, and one each in Shatoi, Achkhoi-Martan, and Grozny districts. Also, just several days prior to the release of this report Human Rights Watch learned of yet another, most recent case of house-burning. On June 18, around 5 a.m., unidentified law enforcement servicemen reportedly burned two homes belonging to elderly parents of an alleged insurgent in the village of Engel-Yurt, in the Gudermes district. Thirteen episodes of punitive house-burning are documented in detail in this report. These cases follow a strikingly similar pattern. They were generally perpetrated at night, with law enforcement personnel—often masked—arriving in several cars, breaking into the yard, and forcing the residents out of their house. The perpetrators would prevent residents from approaching their home, treating them roughly and in some cases holding them at gunpoint....

July 2, 2009
Humanitarian Policy Group

Abstract:

This report reviews DRC livelihoods and protection programme in northern and eastern Sri Lanka. The objectives of the review were to: assess the overall relevance and impact of the programme on protection and livelihoods from 2006 until mid-2008; and provide recommendations for the future development of the programme, in particular how to sharpen and strengthen the livelihoods approach and livelihoods activities in programmes. The review was also part of DRC‟s global livelihoods and protection initiative. The objective of this review is to strengthen DRC‟s corporate learning and understanding of how livelihood and protection approaches can be combined and mutually reinforce each other for the benefit of assisted people. The methodology included a brief literature review, interviews with conflict-affected communities on their own responses to livelihoods and protection risks as well as the effectiveness of DRC‟s programmes, and interviews with DRC staff and staff from other agencies (see Annex 1 for the ToRs, Annex 2 for a description of the methodology used and Annex 3 for a list of interviewees). On the suggestion of the DRC country team, the review focused on the Danida-funded integrated livelihood rehabilitation project, which is currently being implemented in Trincomalee and Vavuniya. These were considered two of the more stable areas in the north. Interviews were also carried out with the Jaffna team and the emergency coordinator from Kilinochchi, to get an idea of livelihoods and protection projects elsewhere in the country....