Future of Okinawa base strains U.S.-Japanese alliance
By Blaine Harden
washington post foreign service
Sunday, January 24, 2010; A13
GINOWAN, JAPAN -- The people of Okinawa and the U.S. Marine Corps agree on at least one thing: The Futenma Marine air station is a noisy dinosaur that needs to move elsewhere -- and soon.
Smack in the middle of this densely packed city of 92,000 and taking up about a quarter of its land, the air base torments its neighbors with the howl of combat helicopters and the shudder of C-130 transport planes.
"The noise is unbearable," said Harumi Chinen, principal of Futenma No. 2 Elementary School, where about 780 children study in buildings next to the airfield. "A school should be very comforting and safe. That is not the case here."
Where can the Marines and their earsplitting machines go? That question has triggered the most serious quarrel in the history of the traditionally harmonious U.S.-Japanese alliance, which last week marked its 50th anniversary.
The relocation question has exasperated the Obama administration and strained its dealings with a country that the United States is treaty-bound to protect in case of attack. Hanging in the balance is the future of a $26 billion deal between Japan and the United States to transfer 8,000 Marines from Okinawa to Guam and turn over several valuable tracts of urban land to the people of the island.
Worry, too, has spread across East Asia, as officials from South Korea to Australia have expressed concern about the future of the U.S. security role in the region.
The 14,200 Marines who train with aircraft from Futenma are the only mobile U.S. ground forces based in East Asia, said Lt. Gen. Keith J. Stalder, commander of Marine forces in the Pacific. "They bring a lot of stability and security that allows the Asia Pacific region to be a relatively peaceful place," he said.
Yet even from a Marine point of view, staying at Futenma is not desirable. Decades of citizen complaints -- and the 2004 crash of a Marine helicopter into a nearby college campus, which miraculously killed no one -- have triggered flight restrictions that degrade the tactical utility of the Futenma base, especially in training Marines for night combat.
"These restrictions reduce the number of aircraft we can put up through a 24-hour day," said Lt. Gen. Terry G. Robling, Marine commander on this tropical island, which has a strategic perch between Taiwan and the Korean Peninsula. "It is not a showstopper, but it is a factor."
Until last year, the Futenma problem had a treaty-guaranteed solution that pleased the Marines, soothed the allies and suited Tokyo: The air station would move to a new seaside home at Camp Schwab, in the thinly populated north of the island.
Democracy scuttled the deal. In August, Japanese voters tossed out the Liberal Democratic Party, which had ruled the country for nearly 50 years and had agreed in 2006 on the relocation of the Marine base.
The winner of the election had other ideas about the future of the air station and Japan's relationship with the United States. The Democratic Party of Japan and its leader, Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, campaigned on the claim that Japan had for too long been too passive in its U.S. dealings. To make the point, Hatoyama froze the base relocation plan, while suggesting that the Marines move their airfield off Okinawa and perhaps out of Japan altogether.
This delighted and energized many of Okinawa's 1.4 million people, who have long complained that they bear a disproportionate burden of their country's security alliance. Most of the 36,000 U.S. military personnel in Japan are based on Okinawa, and local unease over their presence has grown rapidly since 1996, when two Marines and a sailor raped a 12-year-old girl.
"With the new leadership in Tokyo, we have moved away from a relationship where the United States gives an order and Japan says, 'Yes,' " said Yoichi Ida, the mayor of Ginowan and an outspoken advocate of moving the air station out of this city and off the island. "If the Americans try to force their will upon us, obviously Japan-U.S. ties will not go very smoothly."
On Sunday, in a mayoral election in Nago, a northern city of 65,000 people that includes Camp Schwab, an anti-base challenger is running against an incumbent who supports the relocation plan. The outcome of the election is being closely watched in Tokyo and might influence a final decision on the future of the base, which Hatoyama promised last week would be made by May.
The Obama administration's position on the base issue has moderated substantially in the past three months. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates warned in November of serious consequences if Japan did not honor its 2006 promise. But this month, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton voiced patient understanding, saying, "We are respectful of the process that the Japanese government is going through."
Still, the White House is continuing to press for the existing relocation plan. "An alliance requires sacrifices on both sides, and it is going to make some people unhappy," a senior administration official said.
When the United States completed its 8,000-foot runway at Futenma air station, there were no problems with complaining neighbors. It was 1947, and the base was surrounded by farmland.
But amid the rubble of Okinawa, where a ferocious World War II battle between U.S. and Japanese forces had razed much of island, the base created jobs, attracted businesses and sowed seeds for what would become a thriving city.
Futenma No. 2 Elementary School moved next to the airfield to be near the working families that encircled the base, said Chinen, the principal.
Marine officials say encroachment on the airfield is simply not their fault. "Why aren't you asking why the Japanese didn't have better zoning laws?" said Robling, the Marine commander. "They built a school right under the runway. What were they thinking?"
Japanese aviation law requires "clear zones" around civilian airports, but the rules do not apply to U.S. military bases. Neither Japanese nor U.S. authorities stopped local people from building beside the base.
Whatever the reason for encroachment, Robling and other U.S. officials acknowledge that it has long since made Futenma a poor site for a military airfield.
But if helicopters end up having no place else to go on Okinawa, Robling said, the Marine mission in Japan and East Asia would be dangerously compromised.
If helicopters were based on Guam or main islands of Japan, he said, "it would be like infielders training on the West Coast and outfielders training on the East Coast. On game day, everyone shows up and is somehow expected to play together."
Marine training issues, though, do not get much sympathy at Futenma No. 2 Elementary, where teachers are instructed to remain silent and not shout over the roar of passing aircraft.
"My personal wish is for the air base to move outside of Okinawa," Chinen said. "But who would raise his hand to take it? No one."
Special correspondent Akiko Yamamoto contributed to this report.
Showing posts with label Australia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Australia. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Pacific Islands Political Studies Conference
Pacific Islands Political Studies Conference
Monday, 23 November 2009, 1:00 pm
Press Release: University of Auckland
University Of Auckland Hosts Pacific Islands Political Studies Conference
Pacific scholars, policy makers and analysts from around the world will convene at The University of Auckland for the 11th Pacific Islands Political Studies Association (PIPSA) conference.
The theme for this year’s conference is Pacific Democracy: What’s Happening? The conference provides a forum to openly and critically discuss and re-examine the problems and issues that continue to shape the dynamics, culture and institutions of political governance and democratic rule in the Pacific.
Delegates from around the Pacific including Hawaii, Australia, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, United States, Niue, Japan, Vanuatu, New Zealand and Solomon Islands will gather for the two-day conference, which will address a wide range of issues including human rights, political violence, military coups, constitutional change, traditional leadership, development and women’s participation. Sir Paul Reeves, former Governor General of New Zealand, distinguished statesman and eminent political mediator in the Pacific region, will open the conference. His speech will focus on problems of democratisation in the Pacific.
The keynote speaker on day two is Labour Party leader Phil Goff, former Minister for Foreign Affairs, who will present “Pasifika New Zealanders in the new political scene.” There will also be presentations by prominent Pacific academics on topics relating to constitutional changes, political violence, human rights, development, corruption, peace-building and conflict resolution, alternative political systems and parliamentary democracy.
“These are difficult times for the Pacific politically, socially and economically, and it is important to engage in wider discussion and analysis of issues in an open and critical way-- as well as to look for long term solutions. Unstable countries can lead to an unstable region; thus, both national and regional solutions must be sought with seriousness,” says Dr Steven Ratuva, political sociologist at the University’s Centre for Pacific Studies, chief conference organiser and president of PIPSA. PIPSA was established in Hawaii in 1987 as a forum for Pacific scholars, policy makers and analysts to engage in discussion, research and publications about political issues in the Pacific islands. The PIPSA general conference takes place once every two years in different locations around the Pacific, including Port Vila, Suva, Noumea, Queensland, Rarotonga, Honolulu, Christchurch and Guam. The conference has been made possible through the support of The University of Auckland’s Faculty of Arts, Centre for Pacific Studies and Equity Office; and the State, Society and Governance in Melanesia Project at the Australian National University.
Monday, 23 November 2009, 1:00 pm
Press Release: University of Auckland
University Of Auckland Hosts Pacific Islands Political Studies Conference
Pacific scholars, policy makers and analysts from around the world will convene at The University of Auckland for the 11th Pacific Islands Political Studies Association (PIPSA) conference.
The theme for this year’s conference is Pacific Democracy: What’s Happening? The conference provides a forum to openly and critically discuss and re-examine the problems and issues that continue to shape the dynamics, culture and institutions of political governance and democratic rule in the Pacific.
Delegates from around the Pacific including Hawaii, Australia, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, United States, Niue, Japan, Vanuatu, New Zealand and Solomon Islands will gather for the two-day conference, which will address a wide range of issues including human rights, political violence, military coups, constitutional change, traditional leadership, development and women’s participation. Sir Paul Reeves, former Governor General of New Zealand, distinguished statesman and eminent political mediator in the Pacific region, will open the conference. His speech will focus on problems of democratisation in the Pacific.
The keynote speaker on day two is Labour Party leader Phil Goff, former Minister for Foreign Affairs, who will present “Pasifika New Zealanders in the new political scene.” There will also be presentations by prominent Pacific academics on topics relating to constitutional changes, political violence, human rights, development, corruption, peace-building and conflict resolution, alternative political systems and parliamentary democracy.
“These are difficult times for the Pacific politically, socially and economically, and it is important to engage in wider discussion and analysis of issues in an open and critical way-- as well as to look for long term solutions. Unstable countries can lead to an unstable region; thus, both national and regional solutions must be sought with seriousness,” says Dr Steven Ratuva, political sociologist at the University’s Centre for Pacific Studies, chief conference organiser and president of PIPSA. PIPSA was established in Hawaii in 1987 as a forum for Pacific scholars, policy makers and analysts to engage in discussion, research and publications about political issues in the Pacific islands. The PIPSA general conference takes place once every two years in different locations around the Pacific, including Port Vila, Suva, Noumea, Queensland, Rarotonga, Honolulu, Christchurch and Guam. The conference has been made possible through the support of The University of Auckland’s Faculty of Arts, Centre for Pacific Studies and Equity Office; and the State, Society and Governance in Melanesia Project at the Australian National University.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Rising Seas, Rising Awareness
Published on Thursday, October 22, 2009 by The Baltimore Sun
Rising Seas, Rising Awareness
Climate change threatens to drown Maryland's coasts and islands, but it's not too late to act
by Mike Tidwell
Here's an idea: Why don't the residents of Smith Island - at the fragile center of the Chesapeake Bay - rent a few scuba-diving suits and hold a town hall meeting under water?
Scientists say a huge part of the Chesapeake region could be below water in a few decades due to rapid global warming. So why not practice up? Just grab a few wetsuits and goggles and rehearse for the aquatic life to come.
A similar rehearsal took place last week in another island area: the archipelago nation of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean. Sitting at underwater tables, atop underwater chairs with fish darting about, the country's president and Cabinet ministers held a "global warming summit" to ask the world to stop the rising seas that could eventually submerge their entire country.
But as TV networks broadcast this bizarre meeting back to the U.S., you could almost hear the "tsk, tsk." We comfortable Americans tend to view really big catastrophes - things like famines and tsunamis - as far-away matters involving people usually too poor or under-educated to plan better.
This mindset helped blind us to the pre-Hurricane Katrina dangers of New Orleans. And it's blinding us today to the shared threat of climate change in places like Smith Island, not to mention Manhattan Island and most of south Florida.
Smith Island - just 80 miles east of the White House in the main stem of the Chesapeake - is home to 300 fishermen, artists, boat-builders, shopkeepers and retirees. The island covers four square miles and is, on average, less than 2 feet above sea level.
If, thanks to global warming pollution, the Greenland ice sheet continues its satellite-verified meltdown, then Smith Island will almost certainly disappear even faster than the Maldives and faster than several much-publicized South Pacific island nations. The whole eastern third of Maryland, in fact, is in big trouble, from Ocean City to Solomons Island to Annapolis. James Hansen, the top climate scientist at NASA, says we'll be measuring sea-level rise in meters by 2100 if current trends continue.
That's a lot to take in, for sure, and skepticism might be the natural response to such climate predictions. So don't take it from Greenpeace or Al Gore or even James Hansen. Listen instead to Allstate Insurance Co.
In 2006, Allstate announced it was no longer issuing new homeowners' policies in states up and down the East Coast. In Maryland, the company shut its doors to new customers across 11 eastern counties, including parts of Anne Arundel and Prince George's counties. Why? First, the company said, sea levels are definitely rising worldwide based on irrefutable science. Second, Atlantic hurricanes are getting bigger and more intense as the planet warms. Hence, Smith Island and much of the rest of eastern Maryland just aren't good insurance risks anymore, Allstate acknowledged. The potential for catastrophe is too great.
Allstate is not a Republican corporation. It's not a Democratic corporation. This is rational private capital talking. The idea of an underwater town hall meeting near Smith Island seems less alarmist when a major insurance company is abandoning customers just a stone's throw from our nation's capital.
Thankfully, the Maryland General Assembly has done its part on global warming. It passed a statute last spring mandating a 25 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions statewide by 2020. But like the tiny nation of the Maldives, Maryland can't solve global warming by itself. The U.S. Senate must pass an even stronger federal carbon cap by mid-December, ahead of international climate talks in Copenhagen, Denmark. With a congressional bill in hand, President Barack Obama must then go to Copenhagen and push China and the rest of the world for a strong global treaty to replace the expiring Kyoto Protocol.
The good news is that this Saturday, for the first time ever, activists from Maryland and the Maldives - as well as Greenland, Australia and myriad places in between - will be speaking with one voice on global warming. The much-heralded "International Day of Climate Action" involves more than 4,000 events in more than 170 countries, including a "human circle of hope" outside the White House. (Learn more at www.350.org/dc).
And while there's no word yet about an aquatic town hall meeting at Smith Island, there are rumors of wetsuits and goggles available for loan from the president of the Maldives. It's time to follow in his wake.
Copyright © 2009, The Baltimore Sun
Mike Tidwell is executive director of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network based in Takoma Park. His e-mail is mtidwell@chesapeakeclimate.org.
Rising Seas, Rising Awareness
Climate change threatens to drown Maryland's coasts and islands, but it's not too late to act
by Mike Tidwell
Here's an idea: Why don't the residents of Smith Island - at the fragile center of the Chesapeake Bay - rent a few scuba-diving suits and hold a town hall meeting under water?
Scientists say a huge part of the Chesapeake region could be below water in a few decades due to rapid global warming. So why not practice up? Just grab a few wetsuits and goggles and rehearse for the aquatic life to come.
A similar rehearsal took place last week in another island area: the archipelago nation of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean. Sitting at underwater tables, atop underwater chairs with fish darting about, the country's president and Cabinet ministers held a "global warming summit" to ask the world to stop the rising seas that could eventually submerge their entire country.
But as TV networks broadcast this bizarre meeting back to the U.S., you could almost hear the "tsk, tsk." We comfortable Americans tend to view really big catastrophes - things like famines and tsunamis - as far-away matters involving people usually too poor or under-educated to plan better.
This mindset helped blind us to the pre-Hurricane Katrina dangers of New Orleans. And it's blinding us today to the shared threat of climate change in places like Smith Island, not to mention Manhattan Island and most of south Florida.
Smith Island - just 80 miles east of the White House in the main stem of the Chesapeake - is home to 300 fishermen, artists, boat-builders, shopkeepers and retirees. The island covers four square miles and is, on average, less than 2 feet above sea level.
If, thanks to global warming pollution, the Greenland ice sheet continues its satellite-verified meltdown, then Smith Island will almost certainly disappear even faster than the Maldives and faster than several much-publicized South Pacific island nations. The whole eastern third of Maryland, in fact, is in big trouble, from Ocean City to Solomons Island to Annapolis. James Hansen, the top climate scientist at NASA, says we'll be measuring sea-level rise in meters by 2100 if current trends continue.
That's a lot to take in, for sure, and skepticism might be the natural response to such climate predictions. So don't take it from Greenpeace or Al Gore or even James Hansen. Listen instead to Allstate Insurance Co.
In 2006, Allstate announced it was no longer issuing new homeowners' policies in states up and down the East Coast. In Maryland, the company shut its doors to new customers across 11 eastern counties, including parts of Anne Arundel and Prince George's counties. Why? First, the company said, sea levels are definitely rising worldwide based on irrefutable science. Second, Atlantic hurricanes are getting bigger and more intense as the planet warms. Hence, Smith Island and much of the rest of eastern Maryland just aren't good insurance risks anymore, Allstate acknowledged. The potential for catastrophe is too great.
Allstate is not a Republican corporation. It's not a Democratic corporation. This is rational private capital talking. The idea of an underwater town hall meeting near Smith Island seems less alarmist when a major insurance company is abandoning customers just a stone's throw from our nation's capital.
Thankfully, the Maryland General Assembly has done its part on global warming. It passed a statute last spring mandating a 25 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions statewide by 2020. But like the tiny nation of the Maldives, Maryland can't solve global warming by itself. The U.S. Senate must pass an even stronger federal carbon cap by mid-December, ahead of international climate talks in Copenhagen, Denmark. With a congressional bill in hand, President Barack Obama must then go to Copenhagen and push China and the rest of the world for a strong global treaty to replace the expiring Kyoto Protocol.
The good news is that this Saturday, for the first time ever, activists from Maryland and the Maldives - as well as Greenland, Australia and myriad places in between - will be speaking with one voice on global warming. The much-heralded "International Day of Climate Action" involves more than 4,000 events in more than 170 countries, including a "human circle of hope" outside the White House. (Learn more at www.350.org/dc).
And while there's no word yet about an aquatic town hall meeting at Smith Island, there are rumors of wetsuits and goggles available for loan from the president of the Maldives. It's time to follow in his wake.
Copyright © 2009, The Baltimore Sun
Mike Tidwell is executive director of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network based in Takoma Park. His e-mail is mtidwell@chesapeakeclimate.org.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Conference will focus on human rights and family
Family, human rights issues top forum agenda
Monday, 07 September 2009 03:09
by Jude Lizama
Marianas Variety News Staff
HUMAN rights and family issues as they relate to the presence of military bases are among the main issues that will be discussed at the 7th meeting of the International Network of Women Against Militarism from Sept. 14 to 19.
Hosted by the University of Guam in Mangilao and Carmel on the Hill Center, this year’s conference theme is “Resistance, Resilience and Respect for Human Rights.” Attending the conference are women from Japan, Okinawa, Hawaii, South Korea, Philippines, Australia, Republic of Belau, Marshall Islands, Guam, Saipan, United States, and Puerto Rico.
The International Network of Women Against Militarism has been meeting since 1997 to share information and strategize about the negative effects of U.S. military operations.
These effects include military violence against women and girls, the plight of mixed-race Amerasian children abandoned by U.S. military fathers, environmental contamination, cultural degradation and the distortion of local economies. They focus on how military institutions, values, policies and operations impact communities, especially women.
Women across the globe have endured tremendous struggles to protect their families and survive during times of war and unrest. It is from these struggles that women have gained the strength to fight for peace.
Workshops and public forums on human trafficking and prostitution, political arrangements with the U.S., rethinking peace and security, exploring alternatives for economic sustainability, environmental contamination and toxicity will be featured throughout.
A central focus of the gathering is the issue of the U.S. military presence on Guam. Referred to as the “tip of the spear,” Guam is immersed in an unprecedented military build-up as the U.S. plans to relocate thousands of Marines and their dependents from Okinawa. The conference comes at a critical time in island’s history, and aims to bring international attention to the concerns being raised about the proposed build-up.
Additionally, there will also be a historical tour of the island; a community vigil to honor the past and heal for the future; a public art event featuring local and international artists; and other networking opportunities.
Those interested in the conference may register until Thursday. For additional information, visit www.genuinesecurity.blogspot.com.
Monday, 07 September 2009 03:09
by Jude Lizama
Marianas Variety News Staff
HUMAN rights and family issues as they relate to the presence of military bases are among the main issues that will be discussed at the 7th meeting of the International Network of Women Against Militarism from Sept. 14 to 19.
Hosted by the University of Guam in Mangilao and Carmel on the Hill Center, this year’s conference theme is “Resistance, Resilience and Respect for Human Rights.” Attending the conference are women from Japan, Okinawa, Hawaii, South Korea, Philippines, Australia, Republic of Belau, Marshall Islands, Guam, Saipan, United States, and Puerto Rico.
The International Network of Women Against Militarism has been meeting since 1997 to share information and strategize about the negative effects of U.S. military operations.
These effects include military violence against women and girls, the plight of mixed-race Amerasian children abandoned by U.S. military fathers, environmental contamination, cultural degradation and the distortion of local economies. They focus on how military institutions, values, policies and operations impact communities, especially women.
Women across the globe have endured tremendous struggles to protect their families and survive during times of war and unrest. It is from these struggles that women have gained the strength to fight for peace.
Workshops and public forums on human trafficking and prostitution, political arrangements with the U.S., rethinking peace and security, exploring alternatives for economic sustainability, environmental contamination and toxicity will be featured throughout.
A central focus of the gathering is the issue of the U.S. military presence on Guam. Referred to as the “tip of the spear,” Guam is immersed in an unprecedented military build-up as the U.S. plans to relocate thousands of Marines and their dependents from Okinawa. The conference comes at a critical time in island’s history, and aims to bring international attention to the concerns being raised about the proposed build-up.
Additionally, there will also be a historical tour of the island; a community vigil to honor the past and heal for the future; a public art event featuring local and international artists; and other networking opportunities.
Those interested in the conference may register until Thursday. For additional information, visit www.genuinesecurity.blogspot.com.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Family, human rights issues top forum agenda
Monday, 07 September 2009 03:09 by Jude Lizama | Variety News Staff
HUMAN rights and family issues as they relate to the presence of military bases are among the main issues that will be discussed at the 7th meeting of the International Network of Women Against Militarism from Sept. 14 to 19.
Hosted by the University of Guam in Mangilao and Carmel on the Hill Center, this year’s conference theme is “Resistance, Resilience and Respect for Human Rights.” Attending the conference are women from Japan, Okinawa, Hawaii, South Korea, Philippines, Australia, Republic of Belau, Marshall Islands, Guam, Saipan, United States, and Puerto Rico.
The International Network of Women Against Militarism has been meeting since 1997 to share information and strategize about the negative effects of U.S. military operations.
These effects include military violence against women and girls, the plight of mixed-race Amerasian children abandoned by U.S. military fathers, environmental contamination, cultural degradation and the distortion of local economies. They focus on how military institutions, values, policies and operations impact communities, especially women.
Women across the globe have endured tremendous struggles to protect their families and survive during times of war and unrest. It is from these struggles that women have gained the strength to fight for peace.
Workshops and public forums on human trafficking and prostitution, political arrangements with the U.S., rethinking peace and security, exploring alternatives for economic sustainability, environmental contamination and toxicity will be featured throughout.
A central focus of the gathering is the issue of the U.S. military presence on Guam. Referred to as the “tip of the spear,” Guam is immersed in an unprecedented military build-up as the U.S. plans to relocate thousands of Marines and their dependents from Okinawa. The conference comes at a critical time in island’s history, and aims to bring international attention to the concerns being raised about the proposed build-up.
Additionally, there will also be a historical tour of the island; a community vigil to honor the past and heal for the future; a public art event featuring local and international artists; and other networking opportunities.
Those interested in the conference may register until Thursday. For additional information, visit www.genuinesecurity.blogspot.com.
HUMAN rights and family issues as they relate to the presence of military bases are among the main issues that will be discussed at the 7th meeting of the International Network of Women Against Militarism from Sept. 14 to 19.
Hosted by the University of Guam in Mangilao and Carmel on the Hill Center, this year’s conference theme is “Resistance, Resilience and Respect for Human Rights.” Attending the conference are women from Japan, Okinawa, Hawaii, South Korea, Philippines, Australia, Republic of Belau, Marshall Islands, Guam, Saipan, United States, and Puerto Rico.
The International Network of Women Against Militarism has been meeting since 1997 to share information and strategize about the negative effects of U.S. military operations.
These effects include military violence against women and girls, the plight of mixed-race Amerasian children abandoned by U.S. military fathers, environmental contamination, cultural degradation and the distortion of local economies. They focus on how military institutions, values, policies and operations impact communities, especially women.
Women across the globe have endured tremendous struggles to protect their families and survive during times of war and unrest. It is from these struggles that women have gained the strength to fight for peace.
Workshops and public forums on human trafficking and prostitution, political arrangements with the U.S., rethinking peace and security, exploring alternatives for economic sustainability, environmental contamination and toxicity will be featured throughout.
A central focus of the gathering is the issue of the U.S. military presence on Guam. Referred to as the “tip of the spear,” Guam is immersed in an unprecedented military build-up as the U.S. plans to relocate thousands of Marines and their dependents from Okinawa. The conference comes at a critical time in island’s history, and aims to bring international attention to the concerns being raised about the proposed build-up.
Additionally, there will also be a historical tour of the island; a community vigil to honor the past and heal for the future; a public art event featuring local and international artists; and other networking opportunities.
Those interested in the conference may register until Thursday. For additional information, visit www.genuinesecurity.blogspot.com.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Pacific Pulse
AUST NETWORK LAUNCHES PACIFIC PULSE
www.fijidailypost.com/news.php?section=1&fijidailynews=19894
SUVA (FDP Online/Pacific Media Watch): Chief executive of Australia Network, Bruce Dover, yesterday announced the launch of a unique new television programme, Pacific Pulse, as part of Australia Network’s ongoing commitment to providing relevant content to its viewers.
Australia Network currently runs on Fiji One after normal local programming hours. It was originally Australia Television and later ABC Asia Pacific.
“A weekly feature-style television programme which will reflect the people, the personalities and the places which make the Pacific truly unique, Pacific Pulse will go beyond the headlines to explore the many other stories of this diverse, vibrant region,” a statement released yesterday by Australia Network said.
“Pacific Pulse will give Pacific viewers a new insight and perspective on local events and issues that matter to them,” said Dover.
Pacific Pulse will be co-presented by Tania Nugent, the face of Australia Network’s Nexus program, and Clement Paligaru, whose voice is recognised across the Pacific as a former presenter of Radio Australia’s Pacific Beat and current co-presenter of In the Loop, and will feature contributions from respected Pacific specialists.
“I am delighted with Australian Network launching Pacific Pulse – a program that captures the soul of the Pacific and offers an optimistic perspective,” said Murray Green, director, ABC International.
“This is another example of Australia Network’s ongoing commitment to providing relevant and engaging content for the Pacific,” Green added.
Tania Nugent, one of the presenters of the newly launched Pacific Pulse television programme, said they would be giving audiences “informative, entertaining and stimulating content” but more importantly, they would be providing “more than the headlines for our viewers".
Australia Network will also be providing viewers with a new evening Pacific News Bulletin, led by Australia Network’s correspondent, Sean Dorney, who has reported extensively on Pacific issues for three decades.
Pacific Pulse will be broadcast across the Pacific from November 1, on Australia Network.
It will broadcast in Fiji beginning this Sunday at 9.20pm (Sky Pacific and Fiji One later).
www.fijidailypost.com/news.php?section=1&fijidailynews=19894
SUVA (FDP Online/Pacific Media Watch): Chief executive of Australia Network, Bruce Dover, yesterday announced the launch of a unique new television programme, Pacific Pulse, as part of Australia Network’s ongoing commitment to providing relevant content to its viewers.
Australia Network currently runs on Fiji One after normal local programming hours. It was originally Australia Television and later ABC Asia Pacific.
“A weekly feature-style television programme which will reflect the people, the personalities and the places which make the Pacific truly unique, Pacific Pulse will go beyond the headlines to explore the many other stories of this diverse, vibrant region,” a statement released yesterday by Australia Network said.
“Pacific Pulse will give Pacific viewers a new insight and perspective on local events and issues that matter to them,” said Dover.
Pacific Pulse will be co-presented by Tania Nugent, the face of Australia Network’s Nexus program, and Clement Paligaru, whose voice is recognised across the Pacific as a former presenter of Radio Australia’s Pacific Beat and current co-presenter of In the Loop, and will feature contributions from respected Pacific specialists.
“I am delighted with Australian Network launching Pacific Pulse – a program that captures the soul of the Pacific and offers an optimistic perspective,” said Murray Green, director, ABC International.
“This is another example of Australia Network’s ongoing commitment to providing relevant and engaging content for the Pacific,” Green added.
Tania Nugent, one of the presenters of the newly launched Pacific Pulse television programme, said they would be giving audiences “informative, entertaining and stimulating content” but more importantly, they would be providing “more than the headlines for our viewers".
Australia Network will also be providing viewers with a new evening Pacific News Bulletin, led by Australia Network’s correspondent, Sean Dorney, who has reported extensively on Pacific issues for three decades.
Pacific Pulse will be broadcast across the Pacific from November 1, on Australia Network.
It will broadcast in Fiji beginning this Sunday at 9.20pm (Sky Pacific and Fiji One later).
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
A Letter of Solidarity from Australia Regarding the Possibility of Chamorros Become a Native American Tribe
A Letter of Solidarity from Australia Regarding the Possibility of Chamorros Become a Native American Tribe:
Dear Hope Cristobal and all our Chamorro Friends
What distressing news this is. If the Chamorro Peoples become an internal tribe of the United States of America this will surely undermine your rights as a Non-Self Governing Peoples listed before the United Nations Committee on Decolonisation. Yet another stone is being thrown at the sovereign right of the Chamorro Peoples to the long-promised Act of Self-Determination. Without your Indigenous stewardship who will care for your ancestral lands and waters? We wish all Chamorro and supporters the strength, courage and clarity that you need to keep up the fight. You speak for all fair minded people - Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike. The day must surely come when Chamorro will be free. One day we will finally eradicate colonialism.
In lasting solidarity
Dr Zohl de Ishtar, Nobel Peace Prize 2005 nominee
And the Kapululangu Elders of the remote Aboriginal community of Balgo, Western Australia
Also the Peace Convergence Australia – a Citizen’s Protest against Militarisation including of the North West Pacific Ocean
Dear Hope Cristobal and all our Chamorro Friends
What distressing news this is. If the Chamorro Peoples become an internal tribe of the United States of America this will surely undermine your rights as a Non-Self Governing Peoples listed before the United Nations Committee on Decolonisation. Yet another stone is being thrown at the sovereign right of the Chamorro Peoples to the long-promised Act of Self-Determination. Without your Indigenous stewardship who will care for your ancestral lands and waters? We wish all Chamorro and supporters the strength, courage and clarity that you need to keep up the fight. You speak for all fair minded people - Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike. The day must surely come when Chamorro will be free. One day we will finally eradicate colonialism.
In lasting solidarity
Dr Zohl de Ishtar, Nobel Peace Prize 2005 nominee
And the Kapululangu Elders of the remote Aboriginal community of Balgo, Western Australia
Also the Peace Convergence Australia – a Citizen’s Protest against Militarisation including of the North West Pacific Ocean
Monday, June 09, 2008
US Accused of Human Rights Violations by Chamorro Activists
Press Release
Monday, 9
June 2008
US accused of human rights violations
Two Chamoru representatives from Guam visiting Australia for a month-long international awareness campaign today accused the United States of glaring human rights violations of the indigenous Chamoru people.
"The new wave of U.S. militarization of Guam means to be decisive," said Chamoru writer Julian Aguon in Sydney today. "It is not simply more of the same. Part of the U.S. military realignment in the Asia-Pacific region includes the controversial relocation of 8,000 U.S. Marines from Okinawa, Japan to Guam. The move will have devastating consequences for the indigenous Chamoru people, who have been struggling for decolonization of their island home.
"The situation of Guam serves as one of the greatest indictments of U.S. democratic legitimacy, as Guam remains one of only 16 non-self-governing territories in the modern world. The military build-up now underway in Guam, which will include an influx of a military personnel population comparable in size to the entire indigenous population (55,000), is being done entirely without the input or consultation of the indigenous people and over their deepening dissent."
Dr. Lisa Natividad, a professor at the University of Guam, stated that the new wave of military buildup will only worsen the well being of the Chamoru people, who already suffer from the classic symptoms of a colonial condition such as dramatic health disparities. "For example, rates of nasopharyngeal cancer among my people are 2,000% higher than in the United States, and the rate of diabetes is five times the national U.S. average," Dr Natividad said.
"Although Guam is only 30 miles long, it contains 19 sites designated by the US Environmental Protection Agency as the most highly contaminated and toxic sites in the entire United States." Dr. Natividad said. These toxins include radioactive and carcinogenic materials, dioxins, etc.
"We come to Australia in the hope of raising awareness about the human rights deprivations of the Chamoru people by the U.S, to build solidarity among the peace and justice groups here and throughout the Asia-Pacific region, who are all endangered by current U.S. militarization of the region," she said.
For more information and interviews with Lisa Natividad and Julian Aguon.
please contact Dr Hannah Middleton on 0418 668 098
Monday, 9
June 2008
US accused of human rights violations
Two Chamoru representatives from Guam visiting Australia for a month-long international awareness campaign today accused the United States of glaring human rights violations of the indigenous Chamoru people.
"The new wave of U.S. militarization of Guam means to be decisive," said Chamoru writer Julian Aguon in Sydney today. "It is not simply more of the same. Part of the U.S. military realignment in the Asia-Pacific region includes the controversial relocation of 8,000 U.S. Marines from Okinawa, Japan to Guam. The move will have devastating consequences for the indigenous Chamoru people, who have been struggling for decolonization of their island home.
"The situation of Guam serves as one of the greatest indictments of U.S. democratic legitimacy, as Guam remains one of only 16 non-self-governing territories in the modern world. The military build-up now underway in Guam, which will include an influx of a military personnel population comparable in size to the entire indigenous population (55,000), is being done entirely without the input or consultation of the indigenous people and over their deepening dissent."
Dr. Lisa Natividad, a professor at the University of Guam, stated that the new wave of military buildup will only worsen the well being of the Chamoru people, who already suffer from the classic symptoms of a colonial condition such as dramatic health disparities. "For example, rates of nasopharyngeal cancer among my people are 2,000% higher than in the United States, and the rate of diabetes is five times the national U.S. average," Dr Natividad said.
"Although Guam is only 30 miles long, it contains 19 sites designated by the US Environmental Protection Agency as the most highly contaminated and toxic sites in the entire United States." Dr. Natividad said. These toxins include radioactive and carcinogenic materials, dioxins, etc.
"We come to Australia in the hope of raising awareness about the human rights deprivations of the Chamoru people by the U.S, to build solidarity among the peace and justice groups here and throughout the Asia-Pacific region, who are all endangered by current U.S. militarization of the region," she said.
For more information and interviews with Lisa Natividad and Julian Aguon.
please contact Dr Hannah Middleton on 0418 668 098
Friday, February 08, 2008
Monday, July 16, 2007
The Great White Whale
Oceania: No War Games - 29 Jun 2007
White Whale forces Military Retreat in US-Australian War Games
english (original)
http://www.indymedia.org/en/2007/06/888289.shtml
--------------
Migaloo, the white humpback whale, is forcing the USA and Australian
military forces to reconsider using the Great Barrier reef for war games.
The USA and Australian Defence forces have faced down a civil disobedience
peace campaign against their Talisman Sabre War Games, from June 19 to
July 2, at Shoalwater Bay near Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, only to
come up against the white whale!
Hundreds of people protested outside the restricted area near Rockhampton,
Queensland, with many attempting to enter the area, several actually
succeeding (Video) and evading capture for a number of days. (Audio
reports: 1, 2, 3) But still the military exercise continued, although
possibly in a slightly subdued form. Now the combined military forces are
facing another threat - a very rare and distinctive white humpback whale
by the name of Migaloo has been sighted heading towards the exercise area,
and the miltary are being forced to back off from endangering this
beautiful creature.
White Whale forces Military Retreat in US-Australian War Games
english (original)
http://www.indymedia.org/en/2007/06/888289.shtml
--------------
Migaloo, the white humpback whale, is forcing the USA and Australian
military forces to reconsider using the Great Barrier reef for war games.
The USA and Australian Defence forces have faced down a civil disobedience
peace campaign against their Talisman Sabre War Games, from June 19 to
July 2, at Shoalwater Bay near Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, only to
come up against the white whale!
Hundreds of people protested outside the restricted area near Rockhampton,
Queensland, with many attempting to enter the area, several actually
succeeding (Video) and evading capture for a number of days. (Audio
reports: 1, 2, 3) But still the military exercise continued, although
possibly in a slightly subdued form. Now the combined military forces are
facing another threat - a very rare and distinctive white humpback whale
by the name of Migaloo has been sighted heading towards the exercise area,
and the miltary are being forced to back off from endangering this
beautiful creature.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Solidarity Between Guam and Australian Activists
Australian activists share solidarity with Guam counterparts
By Mar-Vic Cagurangan
Variety News Staff
July 2, 2007
AUSTRALIAN peace activists have shared their solidarity with their Guam counterparts who are opposing the military buildup and the repositioning of nuclear-powered submarines at the Naval Base and aircraft carriers at Andersen Air Force Base.
"The Chamorro people face the prospect of more of their pristine land and sea areas being polluted and contaminated by the toxic chemicals used by the military, as is happening here in Shoalwater Bay," peace activists said in a statement read at Yeppoon Rockhampton during the June 24 rally against the joint U.S.-Australia war games billed "Talisman Sabre '07."
Thousands of activists participated in the Peace Convergence that opposed the military exercise held at the Shoalwater Bay training area near central Queensland. Nasion Chamoru was represented by young Chamorro activist Fanai Castro.
"These experiences of Gua'han and Gani that Fanai Castro has shared with us during the Peace Convergence are full of important warnings to all Australians," according to a Peace Convergence statement.
"We of the Peace Convergence and the thousands of other Australians who support us extend our warm solidarity to the Chamorro people and all the organizations of your island that are struggling against military occupation and colonization imposed by the U.S.," the statement added.
By Mar-Vic Cagurangan
Variety News Staff
July 2, 2007
AUSTRALIAN peace activists have shared their solidarity with their Guam counterparts who are opposing the military buildup and the repositioning of nuclear-powered submarines at the Naval Base and aircraft carriers at Andersen Air Force Base.
"The Chamorro people face the prospect of more of their pristine land and sea areas being polluted and contaminated by the toxic chemicals used by the military, as is happening here in Shoalwater Bay," peace activists said in a statement read at Yeppoon Rockhampton during the June 24 rally against the joint U.S.-Australia war games billed "Talisman Sabre '07."
Thousands of activists participated in the Peace Convergence that opposed the military exercise held at the Shoalwater Bay training area near central Queensland. Nasion Chamoru was represented by young Chamorro activist Fanai Castro.
"These experiences of Gua'han and Gani that Fanai Castro has shared with us during the Peace Convergence are full of important warnings to all Australians," according to a Peace Convergence statement.
"We of the Peace Convergence and the thousands of other Australians who support us extend our warm solidarity to the Chamorro people and all the organizations of your island that are struggling against military occupation and colonization imposed by the U.S.," the statement added.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
New US Bases in Australia
Media Release Australia
Australian Anti-Bases Campaign Coalition
Thursday, 15 February 2007
--------------
New US War Base Condemned
“We are appalled by the announcement that the Federal Government has secretly agreed to set up a new United States base at Geraldton in WA,” Australian Anti-Bases Campaign Coalition National Coordinator Denis Doherty said this morning.
“We are sure Australians do not want to supply intelligence and communications for more Bush administration invasions or to host bases which spy on our neighbours and training areas for Australian soldiers to practice fighting under US command.
“The Federal Government has dropped all pretence about ‘joint facilities’ and is calling the new base, the first of several planned facilities, a United States military base.
“Defence Minister Nelson’s claim that the government will have full knowledge of all activities at the base is unbelievable,” Mr. Doherty said.
“We already have over 40 US military facilities in Australia. We cannot afford more. This is a case where less is best!
“US bases make Australia a target for nuclear and terrorist attacks,” Mr. Doherty said.
“They increase the US hold on Australian foreign policy. They undermine Australia’s security and add even more to the already out of control Australian military budget which is running at $55 million every day.
“In the most recent budget the military got more money than education.
“These bases do not make Australia safer but they make us poorer,” Mr. Doherty said.
“Around the world, US bases have become the centre of major social problems. Australia is no different. An Anglican Church report from Hobart details frequent sexual assaults on young men and women by US service people. US MPs assaulted Aborigines in Ipswich during 1997 war games and two US servicemen were tried for rape in Darwin in February 2004.
“There are also major dangers to our environment of pollution from repairs and maintenance programs and from weapons firing.
“The Australian Anti-Bases Campaign Coalition condemns this outrageous agreement and vows to fight it in every way we can,” he said.
“Our Coalition and other groups are preparing for a major campaign against another new US base at Shoalwater Bay in Queensland. In June this year there will be protests against the huge joint military exercise called “Talisman Sabre 07’.
“We call on the Government to rescind this agreement and hold a public enquiry into the US military presence in Australia,” Mr Doherty said.
Australian Anti-Bases Campaign Coalition
Thursday, 15 February 2007
--------------
New US War Base Condemned
“We are appalled by the announcement that the Federal Government has secretly agreed to set up a new United States base at Geraldton in WA,” Australian Anti-Bases Campaign Coalition National Coordinator Denis Doherty said this morning.
“We are sure Australians do not want to supply intelligence and communications for more Bush administration invasions or to host bases which spy on our neighbours and training areas for Australian soldiers to practice fighting under US command.
“The Federal Government has dropped all pretence about ‘joint facilities’ and is calling the new base, the first of several planned facilities, a United States military base.
“Defence Minister Nelson’s claim that the government will have full knowledge of all activities at the base is unbelievable,” Mr. Doherty said.
“We already have over 40 US military facilities in Australia. We cannot afford more. This is a case where less is best!
“US bases make Australia a target for nuclear and terrorist attacks,” Mr. Doherty said.
“They increase the US hold on Australian foreign policy. They undermine Australia’s security and add even more to the already out of control Australian military budget which is running at $55 million every day.
“In the most recent budget the military got more money than education.
“These bases do not make Australia safer but they make us poorer,” Mr. Doherty said.
“Around the world, US bases have become the centre of major social problems. Australia is no different. An Anglican Church report from Hobart details frequent sexual assaults on young men and women by US service people. US MPs assaulted Aborigines in Ipswich during 1997 war games and two US servicemen were tried for rape in Darwin in February 2004.
“There are also major dangers to our environment of pollution from repairs and maintenance programs and from weapons firing.
“The Australian Anti-Bases Campaign Coalition condemns this outrageous agreement and vows to fight it in every way we can,” he said.
“Our Coalition and other groups are preparing for a major campaign against another new US base at Shoalwater Bay in Queensland. In June this year there will be protests against the huge joint military exercise called “Talisman Sabre 07’.
“We call on the Government to rescind this agreement and hold a public enquiry into the US military presence in Australia,” Mr Doherty said.
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