Category: Editor’s choice

  • UN General Assembly Takes a Stand: New Resolution Addresses Trafficking and Forced Religious Conversions

    Washington, D.C., November 20, 2024 – In a step forward for the advancement of human rights worldwide, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)s Third Committee has approved a groundbreaking resolution on Child, Early, and Forced Marriage (A/C.3/79/L.19/REV.1) that tackles pressing concerns like abductions, human trafficking, and forced religious conversions that disproportionately impact women and girls. This momentous ruling was reached during the committees’ session on November 18th and signifies a crucial milestone in the continuous struggle for religious liberty and safeguarding vulnerable communities.

    The resolution regarding Child Marriage and Forced Marriages was achieved through the efforts of more than 60 groups and people committed to advocating for human rights and social equality. The approved wording specifically emphasizes the importance of tackling the lack of accountability in cases of kidnappings. Forced conversions carried out by armed groups and non-state entities. This acknowledgment is vital as it shines a light on a worldwide problem that has often been ignored in global conversations.

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    Jonas Fiebrantz, serving as the Chair of the UN Working Group for the International Religious Freedom Roundtable, representing ADF International, and Vice President of the United Nations Geneva NGO Committee on FoRB, highlighted the significance of cooperation in reaching this milestone. Thanks to our joint advocacy efforts, our proposals were taken up by the European Union delegation, who successfully inserted this language into the revised draft. This progress is a testament to the power of collaboration.” The resolution was unanimously backed by all 193 member states as a show of unity in protecting the rights and dignity of those, in situations.

    The resolution urges countries to enhance measures to prevent and protect women and children at risk of violations by tackling violence carried out by non state entities and armed groups alike. It draws from language put forth in the UN Human Rights Council in 2023 but includes practical safeguards to make the resolution implementable. This signifies a milestone, as it is the instance where the UN has acknowledged forced religious conversions in a General Assembly resolution. This breakthrough highlights a shift in discussions on freedom that had been stalled since 2011 due to political standoffs.

    The approval of this resolution isn’t a win in process terms; it shows an increasing worldwide understanding of the importance of tackling serious injustices experienced by women and girls. The IRF Roundtable has been instrumental in pushing for this resolution. Is committed to making sure that the language agreed upon leads to real protections for the most at-risk individuals. The team is eager for the United Nations General Assembly to officially adopt this resolution in December and for member states around the world to put it into action.

    In a time when the world faces challenges regarding freedom and human rights issues alike, this resolution shines as a symbol of optimism and unity in the fight against abductions and coerced conversions. Showcasing the strength found in working together and the dedicated efforts of supporters globally to build a safer and fairer world for everyone.

    In the few months ahead, the main aim will be to make sure that the promises outlined in this resolution are not just acknowledged but put into action as well, resulting in tangible safeguards for those in most need. The IRF Roundtable and its collaborators are ready to persist in their support, making certain that the concerns of the at-risk populations are listened to and their entitlements safeguarded across all regions worldwide.

  • Tragic End in Torrent: Bodies of Missing Children Izan and Rubén Found After DANA Floods

    Valencia, November 13, 2024 // In a heartbreaking turn of events, the bodies of Izan and Rubén Matías, two young children swept away during the devastating DANA floods in Torrent, have been found lifeless near Catarroja, several kilometers from where they disappeared. The family, after days of agony, shared a poignant message: “Our little angels are now resting from the heavens.”

    The boys, aged 3 and 5, went missing two weeks ago when torrential rains brought by the DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels) hit their neighborhood in Torrent. It was an unforeseen tragedy—the children were in their home when a container carried by a passing trailer became unhinged, crashing violently into the room they were occupying. The impact sent both Izan and Rubén into the raging floodwaters, setting off a desperate search across the region.

    Their disappearance mobilized not only local emergency teams, including the Spanish Military Emergency Unit (UME), but also community members and specialized rescue groups from around the world. Among the most notable were “Los Topos Aztecas,” a team of renowned Mexican rescuers, who joined the effort despite the daunting conditions, and who were working and assisted by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers who provided logistical support and aided, with many other citizen groups, in the relentless search operation.

    Despite daily searches, hopes of finding the children alive slowly dwindled as the days wore on. The area was combed repeatedly, with experts estimating the possible path of the floodwaters to track down the missing boys. Yesterday, the exhaustive search came to a tragic conclusion when both bodies were located together, several kilometers downstream from the house they had once played in.

    The story of Izan and Rubén has captured the hearts of many, highlighting both the fragility of life in the face of natural disasters and the extraordinary lengths that people will go to in times of crisis. Rescue teams worked day and night, enduring the challenges of muddy waters and unpredictable weather conditions, hoping against hope for a miracle that never came.

    Among the different organizations that assisted, the role of “Los Topos Aztecas” stood out for their bravery, with the seasoned Mexican team arriving in Spain as soon as news of the disaster spread. Their dedication was matched by the “Scientology Volunteer Ministers,” who provided critical coordination, distributing resources and assisting families and teams on the ground.

    Although the outcome has been a tragic one, the collective response to the disappearance of Izan and Rubén is a testament to the humanity that surfaces in times of need. Local residents, professional rescue units, and international teams all worked together tirelessly, exemplifying a community united by love and compassion. While the children could not be saved, the dedication of those involved brought some small measure of closure to the grieving family.

    “Our hearts are broken, but we’re forever grateful to those who never stopped looking for our boys,” said a family member through tears. As Valencia mourns the loss of these two young lives, the community’s resilience stands as a reminder that, even amidst devastation, people come together—strangers turned allies in a fight against despair.

  • Torino and Braga win European Capital of Innovation Awards

    Today, the Commission has revealed the winners of the 2024-25 European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital), celebrating a decade of recognising cities that lead the way in delivering innovative solutions for their citizens. This year’s top prizes, funded under the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe, were awarded to the cities of Torino and Braga.  

    Torino showcases a comprehensive approach to experimentation and innovation, leveraging its rich history and industrial heritage to tackle both present and future urban challenges. Braga has developed a range of innovative solutions, from tech-based clusters to cultural and creative industries, and established a strong innovation ecosystem with a focus on collaboration and inclusivity.  

    The award ceremony took place on 13 November 2024 in Lisbon at the Web Summit, one of the world’s largest technology events. Commissioner Iliana Ivanova handed the awards to cities that have embedded innovation into daily urban life, advancing sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities. The ceremony brought together the mayors from winning cities and past iCapital winners.  

    In addition to the main category winners, the Commission has announced the 1st and 2nd runners-up for each category:  

    European Capital of Innovation category 

    • Torino, winner 
    • Espoo, 2nd place 
    • West Midlands Combined Authority, 3rd place  

    European Rising Innovative City category 

    • Braga, winner 
    • Linz, 2nd place  
    • Oulu, 3rd place   

    The European Capital of Innovation category winner, Torino, has received a €1 million prize, while the two runners-up have been awarded €100 000 each. The European Rising Innovative City category winner, Braga, has received €500,000, and the two runner-up cities have each been granted €50,000.  

    Background 

    Supported by the European Innovation Council (EIC) under Horizon Europe, the European Capital of Innovation Awards – also known as iCapital – celebrate cities with dynamic, inclusive innovation ecosystems. The competition acknowledges those urban centres that successfully connect citizens, academic institutions, businesses, and public authorities to drive transformative change.  

    This year celebrates the tenth anniversary of the iCapital Awards. The prize first took place in 2014. Past winners include Barcelona (2014), Amsterdam (2016), Paris (2017), Athens (2018), Nantes (2019), Leuven (2020), Dortmund (2021), Aix-Marseille Provence Metropole (2022) and Lisbon (2023) as European Capitals of Innovation. Past winners in the Rising Innovative city category include Vantaa (2021), Haarlem (2022) and Linköping (2023).   

    iCapital is one of the five EIC Prizes granted under Horizon Europe. The prize is open to cities from all EU member states and countries associated to Horizon Europe and it is managed by the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency. The winners are chosen following an assessment performed by two high-level juries of independent experts.  

  • Pope Francis and the Peace Algorithm, A Renewed Path to Global Harmony

    A New Global Mediator

    Today’s world faces profound challenges, with one of the most significant being the crisis in international institutions established after World War II. The United Nations increasingly struggles to de-escalate military tensions, even in Europe, and cannot reform to meet new conditions. If one of the UN Security Council’s permanent members violates the Charter, it can use its veto to block compromise and neutralize the organization’s peacekeeping efforts.

    Under these circumstances, the world needs a new mediator—a person or institution with universal authority capable of influencing opposing sides. Pope Francis and the Holy See have this potential due to his spiritual influence, which reaches beyond confessional boundaries. His approach, often called the “peace algorithm,” rests on the belief that peace is achieved not through military victories but by creating conditions where all parties in a conflict can feel they have emerged victorious.

    The Papal Algorithm

    In the initial months of the full-scale war in Ukraine, Pope Francis proposed a “peace algorithm” designed, in his view, to satisfy both sides. This “algorithm” is not aimed at achieving a tactical victory but at creating common ground for all parties involved. For Francis, true victory means productive cooperation capable of confronting global challenges such as climate change or the need to explore space as Earth’s resources dwindle.

    Rome as an Archetype

    Pope Francis evokes the image of ancient Rome—a symbol of Pax Romana, in which diverse cultures coexisted harmoniously. The civilizations of Europe, Russia, America, and Asia are all deeply rooted in Rome’s cultural legacy. In this context, the Pope envisions Rome as a unifying symbol, not just metaphorically but also politically. Modern Rome, unburdened by historical entanglements between religion and politics, can serve as a model for new alliances among nations that recognize their shared cultural and historical contexts.

    A Neutral Vatican

    Since its establishment as a modern state in 1929, the Vatican has adhered to a principle of neutrality in international affairs. This tradition has been solidified by leaders like Pope John Paul II, who condemned the Iraq War and attempted to mediate between Saddam Hussein and the U.S., and Pope Benedict XVI, who criticized the war in Libya. Pope Francis continues this mission, meeting with world leaders—including Erdogan and Modi—and fostering respectful relations with both the West and with China and Russia. As a result, the Vatican has earned a reputation as a reliable intermediary in international relations.

    The Papal Peace Plan for Ukraine

    Recently, the Vatican released a peace plan for Ukraine that outlines the following steps:

    • Returning forcibly displaced children to their homeland under international oversight.
    • Full mutual exchange of prisoners of war, with a commitment to keep them from future military involvement.
    • Amnesty for individuals convicted of criticizing authorities (especially political prisoners) on both sides, affirming the principle of freedom of expression.
    • Lifting sanctions on relatives of Russian oligarchs who have not directly financed the military actions or engaged in political activities, as a goodwill gesture. These measures are intended to foster an atmosphere of trust conducive to further steps toward peace.

    Outlines of a New World Order

    Pope Francis proposes establishing a new, independent international forum for resolving global conflicts, where the Vatican could serve as a hub for negotiations. In a world where truly neutral states are dwindling, the Vatican maintains its potential as a mediator. The Holy See’s image is unassociated with any threat of revanchism or militarism, strengthening its role as a neutral party in global peacebuilding.

    A Global Project of Unity and Justice

    Pope Francis’s peace algorithm offers a path to fair and peaceful coexistence based on cultural values and respect for historical heritage. This approach views compromise as a formula that allows each side to feel victorious. This vision encourages calls to grant Pope Francis a broad international mandate as the principal mediator between conflicting parties in Ukraine. Such a mandate could be granted by the UN Security Council or the General Assembly, signaling the organization’s readiness for reform. The Vatican and the Pope, with no vested interest in this conflict, genuinely seek peace. With an official mandate, Pope Francis could propose effective and fair solutions to stop the bloodshed and restore stability to the region. Expanding his authority would be an essential step toward true and lasting peace.

  • Russia, 147 Jehovah’s Witnesses sentenced to heavy terms languish behind bars

    On 25 October, 46-year-old Jehovah’s Witness Roman Mareev was released after having served his prison term but many others are still behind barbed wires: 147 according to the database of religious prisoners of Human Rights Without Frontiers in Brussels.

    In Russia, to be a Jehovah’s Witness is a worse crime than to kidnap or to rape. In comparison

    • According to Article 111 Part 1 of the Russian Federation’s Criminal Code, grievous bodily harm draws a maximum of 8 years sentence. 
    • According to Article 126 Part 1 of the Criminal Code, kidnapping leads to up to 5 years in prison.
    • According to Article 131 Part 1 of the Criminal Code, rape is punishable with 3 to 6 years in prison.

    Anatoliy Marunov and Sergei Tolokonnikov sentenced to 6 ½ years and 5.2 years

    In July 2023, the Savelovsky District Court of Moscow sentenced Mareev to 4.5 years in a general regime colony. He was found guilty of involvement in the activities of a banned organization (p. 1.1 Art. 282.2 of the Criminal Code).

    Mareev was arrested in October 2021. He spent a little more than three years, or 1100 days, in three Moscow detention centers. Since one day in custody is equivalent to one and a half days in a general regime colony, Mareev’s term was considered served.

    For some time the believer did not have his own bed in the cell and he slept on the floor. Mareev said that in the detention center he was supported by letters from family, friends and strangers. In three years, he received letters from 68 countries.

    Two other believers who were convicted together with Mareev remain in prison – Anatoliy Marunov and Sergei Tolokonnikov. The first one was sentenced to six and a half years in a general regime colony, and the second one to five years. In the appeal, Tolokonnikov’s term was increased to five years and two months.

    They did not plead guilty, and one of the lawyers emphasized that they were persecuted only for their religion.

    The usual charges for Jehovah’s Witnessesr are the spread of their religious beliefs and participation in religious services.

    A native Muscovite Sergey Tolokonnikov worked for many years as a security guard. After becoming a Jehovah’s Witness, he refused to carry weapons and to use violence against others. Despite this, in October 2021, the authorities considered him a dangerous criminal, charging him under two extremist articles for his faith.

    Anatoliy Marunov worked for almost 40 years in the publishing house and printing house of the “Krasnaya Zvezda” newspaper, which for a long time was the central printed organ of the USSR and Russian Federation Ministry of Defense. He joined the movement of Jehovah’s Witnesses at the end of the 1990s.

    Jehovah’s Witnesses banned since 2017

    In 2017, the Supreme Court recognized the “Jehovah’s Witnesses Management Center in Russia” as an “extremist organization”, liquidated it and banned its activities on the territory of Russia. All Jehovah’s Witnesses organizations were included in the banned list, after which the flow of criminal cases against believers began.

    Rosfinmonitoring included hundreds of Russian followers of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the list of “extremists and terrorists”. Most of the people on the list are believers aged 40 to 60.

    On 7 June 2022, the European Court of Human Rights declared the ban of Jehovah’s Witnesses organizations and the subsequent persecution of believers illegal.

    From the point of view of the ECHR, the decision to liquidate the organization and criminal cases against Jehovah’s Witnesses is based on too broad a definition of “extremism”, which in Russian legislation “can be applied to absolutely peaceful forms of expression”.

  • Fethullah Gülen, Advocate for Peace and Dialogue, Passes Away at 86

    Fethullah Gülen, a prominent Turkish cleric and advocate for interfaith dialogue and education, passed away on October 21, 2024, in a Pennsylvania hospital at the age of 86. Known for his emphasis on peace, tolerance, and service to humanity, Gülen dedicated his life to fostering dialogue among religions and promoting moderate interpretations of Islam. His death brings to a close a remarkable chapter in both Turkish history and global Islamic thought.

    Gülen’s legacy is shaped by his efforts to encourage altruism, education, and interfaith understanding. He founded the Gülen movement, or “Hizmet” (meaning “service” in Turkish), which built a global network of schools, universities, and charitable organizations that promoted these values. The movement emphasized that education and ethical leadership are essential to a peaceful, just society. Gülen’s teachings resonated with millions, not only in Turkey but across the world, as his message reached diverse communities through the network of schools and initiatives.

    Despite his peaceful ideology, Gülen became a highly polarizing figure in Turkey. Once aligned with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, their relationship soured in 2013, and Gülen was later accused of orchestrating the failed coup attempt of 2016, charges he denied until his death. This led to his movement being attacked by the Turkish government, and many of his followers faced heavy persecution, hunting and kidnappings. Turkish representatives have also interefere with political affairs of other countries demanding that followers of Hizmet would not deliver public peaceful statements at Parliaments and official places. However, Gülen remained a staunch proponent of non-violence, consistently advocating for dialogue and mutual respect to resolve differences.

    Throughout his life, Gülen was recognized for his commitment to peace, having received awards for his efforts in fostering harmony between different cultures and faiths. His outreach extended to institutions such as the Vatican and Jewish organizations, showcasing his dedication to bridging divides between communities often in conflict. His moderate stance on Islam, coupled with his focus on science, education, and civic responsibility, made him a revered figure among his followers.

    Gülen’s passing leaves behind a complex legacy, marked by both admiration for his peaceful contributions and the controversies that shadowed his later years. Nevertheless, he will be remembered by many as a spiritual leader who sought to create a more compassionate, educated, and harmonious world.

    A movement of Service

    The Gülen movement, also known as Hizmet (meaning “service” in Turkish), stands out as a global initiative that focuses on education, interfaith dialogue, and social service. At its core, the movement seeks to promote values of tolerance, peace, and cooperation across various cultures and religious communities. Founded by Fethullah Gülen, the movement expanded rapidly, particularly through the establishment of schools and educational institutions across Turkey and in over 100 countries worldwide.

    Focus on Education and Altruism

    One of the most positive aspects of the Gülen movement is its emphasis on education. Gülen viewed education as a means to transform society for the better, advocating for schools that integrate academic excellence with moral values. The schools affiliated with the movement, known for their focus on science, technology, and mathematics, have provided quality education to students from diverse backgrounds, regardless of nationality or religion. This educational initiative is driven by the belief that well-rounded, educated individuals contribute positively to the peace and progress of society.

    The movement’s schools not only focus on academic learning but also emphasize character building, with an ethical dimension that encourages students to become compassionate, socially responsible individuals. These schools often promote interfaith understanding and multiculturalism, making them influential in conflict-prone areas by fostering mutual respect and dialogue among different communities.

    Promoting Interfaith Dialogue

    A central pillar of Gülen’s teachings is his dedication to interfaith dialogue. He consistently encouraged open discussions between different religious traditions, including Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Gülen himself initiated dialogue with global religious leaders, including the Vatican and Jewish organizations, with the aim of creating understanding and collaboration across religious divides. His efforts were particularly significant in a time when many regions of the world were grappling with religious conflict.

    This commitment to dialogue is reflected in various conferences and forums organized by the movement, where people from different faiths come together to discuss issues of common interest such as peace, justice, and mutual coexistence. Through these initiatives, the movement has helped to break down stereotypes and foster a spirit of cooperation, which has been praised by scholars and leaders worldwide.

    Social Services and Philanthropy

    Beyond education and dialogue, the Gülen movement has made significant contributions in the realm of social services. Various philanthropic activities supported by the movement include disaster relief, healthcare, and assistance to underprivileged communities. The movement’s charitable organizations, both in Turkey and globally, have been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts, helping those affected by natural disasters and economic hardships. Their work has ranged from providing scholarships to disadvantaged students to offering medical aid in countries facing crises.

    This altruistic element of the movement aligns with Gülen’s belief in serving humanity and addressing the practical needs of society through compassion and generosity. It has helped thousands of people improve their living conditions and access opportunities for personal development, which otherwise might not have been available to them.

    Advocacy for Peaceful Coexistence

    The Gülen movement is built on the idea that differences in religion, culture, and ideology should not be sources of conflict but rather opportunities for understanding and collaboration. This ethos has led the movement to advocate for peaceful coexistence, especially in conflict-prone regions where tensions between ethnic and religious groups often escalate into violence. By promoting dialogue and mutual respect, the movement seeks to create environments where diverse groups can live together peacefully.

    The movement has often been lauded in international circles for its efforts to counter extremism. Its schools and institutions serve as models of moderation, where students are encouraged to think critically and embrace values of tolerance. This stance has made the movement an influential voice in promoting a balanced interpretation of Islam that aligns with modern, democratic values.

    Overall, the Gülen movement’s contributions to education, interfaith dialogue, social service, and the promotion of peace have left a lasting impact on both Turkey and the global community. Despite facing significant political challenges and opposition, particularly in Turkey, the movement’s positive initiatives have garnered respect worldwide for their commitment to fostering understanding and bettering society through peaceful means. Fethullah Gülen’s vision of an educated, compassionate, and tolerant society continues to inspire many even after his passing.

  • Historic Referendum in Moldova: EU Membership on the Ballot

    Moldova is at a crucial crossroads as polling stations opened today for a pivotal referendum. Voters across the nation are tasked with two significant decisions: determining their next president and deciding whether Moldova should embrace European Union (EU) membership.

    Current polls indicate that approximately 60% of Moldovans support joining the EU; however, a turnout of at least 33% is required for the referendum to be deemed valid. The potential of a new future is palpable in many regions, yet skepticism persists.

    In the capital city of Chișinău, citizens expressed mixed sentiments about EU membership. “Nothing good,” remarked one man, echoing the frustrations of those who have long lived with deteriorating infrastructure and stagnant development. “In all these years they’ve been doing nothing. The roads are completely deteriorated. I don’t see any hope for the future,” he added.

    Conversely, many voters believe that EU membership could enhance living standards and wages, issues that have pushed many young Moldovans to seek better opportunities abroad. “I think these elections go hand in hand because I will, of course, choose the European path,” stated an optimistic voter, emphasizing the importance of unifying the nation’s vision for its future.

    Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. local time and will close at 9 p.m., with the potential for a presidential runoff on November 3 if incumbent President Maia Sandu does not secure an outright majority. Sandu, a dedicated proponent of EU accession, faces competition from Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor general with pro-Russian affiliations polling at around 10%.

    Moldova’s minimum wage, currently set at 5,000 leu (approximately €261) per month, ranks among the lowest in Europe. A recent analysis by the independent think tank Idis Viitorul revealed that over 200,000 Moldovans have left the country in the last four years, marking a record high. Alarmingly, more than 40% of Moldovans living overseas fall within the 30 to 44 age demographic, indicating a potential demographic shift by 2030, when those born abroad could outnumber those born in Moldova.

    “For about 20 years, we have been talking about Moldova in the European Union, and we are very close now. It is crucial to not miss this opportunity,” remarked President Maia Sandu, who has actively advocated for EU membership. The nation was granted EU candidate status in 2022, signaling a pivotal moment in its European aspirations.

    However, the shadow of foreign influence looms large over the referendum. Moldovan authorities have highlighted attempts by Russian-backed campaigns to demobilize voters. Allegations revealed that approximately €14 million in Russian funds were funneled directly to about 130,000 Moldovans in efforts to sway votes against EU integration. Pro-Russian oligarch Ilan Shor, notorious for orchestrating Kremlin-backed operations within Moldova, has even been reported to offer financial incentives for anti-EU votes.

    In response, Moldova’s Prime Minister Dorin Recean urged citizens to stay vigilant against external destabilization efforts. “It is up to you, dear citizens, to stop the attack on democracy,” he declared. “On Sunday, you make the choice: do we go back to the past, or do we march towards a future within the family of civilized countries?”

    As the nation votes today, the Central Election Commission announced that ballots can be cast at 2,221 polling stations, including 1,957 across Moldova and 234 stations set up in various countries for Moldovans living abroad.

  • The European Migration Dilemma: President Metsola Calls for a Unified European Solution

    In a pivotal address to European leaders, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola underscored the critical need for a comprehensive European solution to the migration crisis, while also reaffirming Europe’s unwavering support for Ukraine amidst its prolonged conflict with Russia. Speaking from the heart of European politics, Metsola’s speech painted a clear picture of the complex and interconnected challenges that Europe faces—where migration, war, and instability ripple far beyond their immediate borders, touching the very core of European unity and values.

    Standing Firm with Ukraine: “Nothing About Ukraine Without Ukraine”

    Metsola began by highlighting Europe’s moral and strategic commitment to Ukraine, now approaching 1,000 days under Russian aggression. Her message was resolute: Europe must stand with Ukraine until a just and lasting peace is secured. However, she rejected any notion of peace through submission, insisting that real peace must be anchored in freedom, dignity, and justice—principles that resonate deeply within the European project.

    “We will, and we must, keep standing with Ukraine,” Metsola stated, emphasizing that peace cannot be built on capitulation or compromise with aggression. Her firm stance echoed the European Parliament’s ongoing support, demonstrated by an impending vote to provide Ukraine with a Macro-Financial Assistance loan of up to 35 billion euros. This substantial aid package, she said, signifies Europe‘s commitment not only politically, but also financially, to Ukraine’s sovereignty and reconstruction.

    Her words reflected the broader European consensus: Ukraine’s future belongs to Ukraine, and any solution that does not include the voices of Ukrainians is no solution at all.

    The Middle East: A Call for Urgent Action

    Metsola also turned her attention to the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon and Israel. Europe, she argued, cannot afford to be passive as violence and instability spread across the region. Stressing the need for a sustainable, two-state solution that secures dignity for Palestinians and safety for Israelis, Metsola reaffirmed the European Parliament’s call for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages.

    Her words rang with a sense of urgency as she highlighted Europe’s responsibility in addressing the wider consequences of regional instability. “What happens in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, or Northern Africa does not stay isolated—there are consequences for Europe,” Metsola warned. Nowhere, she suggested, is this truer than in the sphere of migration.

    Migration: A European Solution or a Fragmented Failure?

    The crux of Metsola’s speech, however, centered on migration—a challenge that has long tested the resilience and unity of the European Union. With the recent adoption of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact following a decade of political deadlock, Europe now has a framework to address migration in a way that balances border security with humanitarian obligations. However, Metsola cautioned that this Pact would only succeed if European countries stand united, particularly in moments of crisis.

    “The real solution is a European solution,” Metsola declared, advocating for broad, holistic, and sustainable cooperation. She pointed to the hybrid threats posed by states like Russia and Belarus, which have weaponized migration as a tool to destabilize Europe. This manipulation of human suffering for geopolitical gain has heightened the need for stronger European coordination and action.

    Metsola was clear: migration is not an isolated issue. The instability in Ukraine, the Middle East, and North Africa has direct consequences for Europe, particularly in terms of migration flows. In response, Europe must not allow itself to be fragmented by external actors exploiting these crises. “We must respond to those who seek to abuse the systems we built for the betterment of man,” she urged, calling for a response that is both firm and compassionate—one that aligns with Europe’s core values of human dignity and justice.

    Securing Schengen: Integrity Through Unity

    Metsola’s final message was a plea to safeguard the integrity of the Schengen Area, the symbol of free movement within Europe. A failure to implement the Migration and Asylum Pact effectively, she warned, could compromise this freedom—a freedom that millions of Europeans have come to cherish as one of the Union’s most tangible achievements.

    As European leaders continue to grapple with the pressures of migration, Metsola’s call for a coordinated European approach was a reminder that fragmentation is not an option. Only through solidarity, cooperation, and shared responsibility can Europe ensure the stability of its borders while remaining true to its humanitarian ideals.

    Conclusion: A Challenge to European Leadership

    Roberta Metsola’s speech was a call to action—a reminder that Europe’s greatest challenges, whether they be migration, war, or regional instability, can only be overcome through unity. Her message to European leaders was clear: Europe’s future rests not on isolated national policies but on a collective European solution. Only by working together can Europe protect its borders, uphold its values, and ensure peace, security, and dignity for all.

    As the migration crisis intensifies and conflicts continue to threaten European stability, Metsola’s words serve as both a warning and a beacon. The time for decisive, coordinated action is now.

  • Parliamentary Assembly President: ‘Our weapons to fight battles are not bullets, but the words that combine to create arguments‘

    Addressing the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities at its 47th plenary Session, Parliamentary Assembly President Theodoros Rousopoulos highlighted the most pressing challenges the Assembly and the Congress both needed to face, including democratic backsliding, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the global environmental crisis, gender inequalities, the impact of AI on democracy and human rights, and the migration crisis.

    “The direct access to citizens’ concerns and expectations regarding democracy, human rights and the rule of law that you have makes your Congress a crucial local and regional dimension to governance,” he emphasised, evoking this body’s 30th anniversary.

    The PACE President welcomed the Congress’s revised priorities following the Reykjavik Summit, in particular the strengthened monitoring of local democracy and respect for the rule of law. “This serves as an important element of an early warning system to signal signs of democratic erosion in our member states,” he said.

    “As in any parliament, battles are fought within the Parliamentary Assembly, and in this Congress as well, but our weapons are not bullets, they are the words that combine to create arguments,” Mr Rousopoulos concluded.

  • Deciphering the Origin of Christopher Columbus: A 500-Year Journey

    After five centuries of speculation and theories, the true identity of Christopher Columbus has begun to emerge thanks to the documentary “Columbus DNA: his true origin ’, produced by RTVE. This feature-length film, which details 22 years of research led by forensic scientist and professor at the University of Granada, José Antonio Lorente, has revealed that the man who discovered America was, in fact, Jewish.

    The investigation began with the search for Columbus’ mortal remains, which were believed to be in Seville or the Dominican Republic. Science has confirmed that the remains in the Cathedral of Seville belong to the admiral. An analysis of the bones of his son, Hernando Colón, was crucial in establishing the parentage and resolving a 150-year dispute between Spain and the Caribbean nation. Hernando’s DNA results showed traits compatible with a Jewish origin, both in the ‘Y’ chromosome and in mitochondrial DNA.

    The documentary, presented in a true crime format, chronicles the genetic research process, where 25 possible origins of Columbus were examined and narrowed down to eight plausible hypotheses. As the theories were presented, DNA dismantled many of them, leading to the conclusion that Columbus was not Genoese, as had been believed for centuries.

    Researcher Francesc Albardaner, who led one of the lines of research, argues that Columbus was Jewish and places him in the western Mediterranean, specifically on the Iberian peninsula, where at the time of Columbus there were around 200,000 Jews. In contrast, in Italy, the Jewish population was significantly smaller. Albardaner argues that Columbus’ history as a Genoese enters into crisis if his Jewish origin is accepted, as Genoa had expelled the Jews in the 12th century.

    Research also revealed that the surname Colombo, common in Italy, was used for abandoned children, further complicating the narrative of an Italian Columbus. In addition, the Columbus letters, which are preserved in large numbers, are written in Spanish, with no Italian influence.

    The documentary also addresses other enigmas about Columbus’ life, including the revelation that his brother Diego was not really his brother, but a distant relative. Throughout his life, Columbus concealed his origin, possibly due to the persecution faced by Jews in the Iberian Peninsula. In 1492, an ultimatum was issued forcing Jews to convert to Christianity or leave the kingdoms of the Catholic Kings.

    Albardaner suggests that Columbus, throughout his life, had to appear to be a devout Christian to avoid persecution. The research also highlights the support Columbus received from Jews and converts, such as the Duke of Medinaceli and Luis de Santángel, who played a crucial role in financing his expedition to America.

    Finally, Lorente concludes that the DNA indicates a Mediterranean origin for Columbus, suggesting that his most likely provenance is in the Spanish Mediterranean arc or in the Balearic Islands, which at that time belonged to the Corona de Aragón. With this new evidence, the documentary not only rewrites the story of Columbus, but also invites a deeper reflection on the identity and legacy of the man who changed the course of history.

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