http://www.interpares.ca/en Latest news from Inter Pares, a Canadian organization that is dedicated to promoting international social justice. In Canada and overseas, we support people's struggles for peace, justice, and equality; their efforts to challenge structural obstacles for change; and their alternative development approaches. Tues, 1 Nov 2011 15:25:00 GMT en-ca http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/highlights/html/2011/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/highlights/html/2011/index.php In 2011, Inter Pares contributed more than $4.1 million in financial support, as well as political and organizational assistance, to our counterparts in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Canada. In Colombia, indigenous women overcame barriers to participate in governance structures; construction of a destructive dam was halted in Burma; and in Canada, the People's Food Policy was released, presenting a vision and a path towards food sovereignty in Canada. Read about these and more in our 2011 Highlights. Thurs, 1 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/givesomethingbig http://www.interpares.ca/givesomethingbig Giving is good, but giving good is better. This holiday season, give those on your list a chance to create a better world - and send cards that move with meaning. Give Something Big raises funds for organizations working towards social transformation, while offering an ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to holiday consumerism for people who care about peace and justice. Make a gift and send cards at www.interpares.ca/givesomethingbig. Thurs, 1 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia.php In November 2011, Inter Pares organized a four-city tour in Saskatoon, Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa, "(In)Equality Matters," to explore how to foster economic equality in our communities and around the world. In each city, residents came out to discuss this important issue with Inter Pares staff, Yao Graham of Third World Network Africa, and Canadian counterparts: National Farmers Union (Saskatoon), Canadians for Tax Fairness (Toronto), La Ligue des droits et libert豠(Montreal) and the Canadian Film Institute (Ottawa). Watch video from the Toronto event online. Thurs, 1 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/proof1/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#economy http://www.interpares.ca/proof1/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#economy In November 2011, Inter Pares organized a four-city tour in Saskatoon, Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa, "(In)Equality Matters," to explore how to foster economic equality in our communities and around the world. In each city, residents came out to discuss this important issue with Inter Pares staff member Jean Symes, Yao Graham of Third World Network Africa, and Canadian counterparts: National Farmers Union (Saskatoon), Canadians for Tax Fairness (Toronto), La Ligue des droits et libertés (Montreal), and the Canadian Film Institute (Ottawa). This document is the text of Jean Symes's speech delivered at the Saskatoon edition. Thurs, 1 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://embassymag.ca/dailyupdate/view/the_roots_of_inequality_mining_profits_soar_but_africans_are_still_poor_11-14-2011 http://embassymag.ca/dailyupdate/view/the_roots_of_inequality_mining_profits_soar_but_africans_are_still_poor_11-14-2011 Profits have ballooned in recent years, but African states haven't seen their fair share. It's time to look beyond the woefully inadequate compensation of voluntary corporate social responsibility actions by mining firms in Africa. During his visit to Canada for "(In)Equality Matters," Yao Graham published this op-ed in the foreign-affairs magazine Embassy. Thurs, 1 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201111/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201111/index.php This was a year of revolution. The media were splashed with gripping images and stories of popular uprisings toppling brutal dictatorships. These events showed us that even under the most difficult conditions, the desire for freedom and justice, and the will to control our own destinies, is alive in people all over the world; that sometimes the most intransigent governments can be held to account or even be brought down. The past year proved that in trying times, the collective will of people can be asserted and can bring about change. Our November 2011 Bulletin features examples of Inter Pares counterparts who are mobilizing for transformation and making their own "gradual instants" of history. Tues, 1 Nov 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/inequalitymatters.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/inequalitymatters.php A global economy that pushes millions of people into poverty and bankrupts countries is not only irrational but fundamentally unjust. What kind of society do we want, and how do we get there? This is the question that Inter Pares will be exploring in our upcoming national tour – with stops in Saskatoon, Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa – with renowned African scholar and activist Yao Graham, November 9-15, 2011. The Toronto event will be livecast on November 10th. We invite you to join us to explore what we can do about deepening inequality and the mechanisms that perpetuate it, in our communities and internationally. Tues, 1 Nov 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://kootenaycoopradio.com/index.php?/radio-show/show/nelson_before_nine/ http://kootenaycoopradio.com/index.php?/radio-show/show/nelson_before_nine/ Listen to a podcast about seasonal Mexican farm workers in British Colombia by Mike Chapman, a long-time Inter Pares Sustaining Donor and social justice activist. On his local radio show, he exposes how the temporary work program in the Kootenays has led to a situation that is exploitative and extremely disturbing. Intimately aware of Southern workers’ desire and struggle for both work and for dignity, Mike is doing his part to make public and visible Canadian employers’ and governments’ increasingly exploitative role in all of this. Wed, 7 Sep 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201109/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201109/index.php "Diego and I jump into a pick-up truck and drive north to the Guatemalan-Mexican border, to the city of Tecun Uman. We weave our way through the crowded bustling streets. It's noon, 40 degrees, and dusty. Down a side road, hidden away from view, we find the Casa del Migrante Tecun Uman, a safehouse for migrants run on a shoestring budget..." Karen Cocq, Inter Pares program manager ... Wed, 7 Sep 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201106/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201106/index.php This Bulletin tells the stories of Inter Pares and the people we work with around the world and here in Canada who are addressing the underlying social justice issues to our environmental challenges. Mon, 24 May 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.justride2011.com/ http://www.justride2011.com/ Well yes, in the best possible way. This summer Rod Germaine, a long-term Inter Pares collaborator and Burma advocate, will be bicycling from his home in North Vancouver to his 40-year Law school reunion in Halifax. Along the way he will be raising money and awareness about the Just Aid Foundation, and the health care in Burma it supports through Inter Pares. Check on his progress and see how you can support him at his blog, Just Ride(http://www.justride2011.com/). Mon, 24 May 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/2011AGM.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/2011AGM.php Get inspired, get informed! Canada has witnessed an alarming growth in inequality in recent years. Armine Yalnizyan, award-winning Senior Economist at the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, social justice activist and writer, spoke eloquently about what we can do about it at Inter Pares' 2011 Annual General Meeting. And Inter Pares' Nadia Faucher inspired us with Peruvian women's courageous struggle for a more just society for all. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/ar-2010/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/ar-2010/index.php In 1975, several young Canadians returned home from experiences overseas and decided to create a new social justice organization in Ottawa. Their vision was a Canadian organization that would engage with people, both internationally and at home, in the struggle for peace, equality, and social justice. They decided to call the new organization Inter Pares – among equals – a name that embodied the values they wanted to promote. Thirty-five years later, here are some of the highlights of success and struggle as we work with our counterparts around the world to promote equality, democracy and justice in our communities and societies... Wed, 13 Apr 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.takebacktheday.ca http://www.takebacktheday.ca Celebrate Mother's Day the way her-story intended: with a little peace and justice. This year, it's time to reclaim the original meaning of Mother's Day! Give to Inter Pares – a Canadian organization working with women internationally to promote peace and justice – and send an e-card to the women who make a difference in your life. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=6511 http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=6511 Northern Africa is not the only part of Africa where uprisings are taking place. TheRealNews talks to Firoze Manji about what's happening. Firoze is the editor-in-chief of Inter Pares' counterpart, Pambazuka News, an online news site with a readership of over 500,000. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www2.parl.gc.ca/CommitteeBusiness/CommitteeMeetings.aspx?FltrCmte=SDIR&Mode=1&FltrParl=40&FltrSes=3&FltrStac=3514115&CmteInst=house&FltrAff=166976&ControlCallback=pvuWebcast&Parl=40&Ses=3&Organization=SDIR&MeetingNumber=51&Language=E&NoJavaScript=true http://www2.parl.gc.ca/CommitteeBusiness/CommitteeMeetings.aspx?FltrCmte=SDIR&Mode=1&FltrParl=40&FltrSes=3&FltrStac=3514115&CmteInst=house&FltrAff=166976&ControlCallback=pvuWebcast&Parl=40&Ses=3&Organization=SDIR&MeetingNumber=51&Language=E&NoJavaScript=true In March 2011, Rachel presented information on the condition of women's rights in Sudan to the House of Commons Subcommittee on International Human Rights. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201102/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201102/index.php “By listening to women’s stories and taking leadership from them, Inter Pares has developed innovative programs on health, pharmaceuticals, and women’s political and social rights, as well as on issues not traditionally considered women’s issues – like food security, trade, migration, and conflict.” Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia/EarthGrab.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia/EarthGrab.php On November 26th, the Earth Grab public forum broke the story about a global trend that is now threatening the planet: the new ‘bio-economy.’ As fossil fuel reserves run low, the world’s biggest corporations are rushing to grab and convert plant matter into fuel. Eric Chaurette from Inter Pares moderated the panels, and our colleague Ibrihim Coulibaly of COPAGEN described how landgrabs are forcing farmers off their lands. Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.suwepmovement.org/Referandum_events.asp http://www.suwepmovement.org/Referandum_events.asp In mid-December, women from the North and South of Sudan came together to prepare a common platform for action, to express their concerns regarding the referendum on independence for South Sudan on January 9, 2011, and to look to the future. Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/BurmaWhatsNext.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/BurmaWhatsNext.php Last November, Burma held its first national elections in twenty years. While international attention was captured by her Aung San Suu Kyi’s sudden release, renewed fighting broke out in several places within eastern Burma. These battles provoked the flight of up to 30,000 people into Thailand in just one day, the largest refugee influx ever. Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/highlights/html/2010/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/highlights/html/2010/index.php In 2010, with the assistance of Canadians across the country, Inter Pares provided policy and organizational assistance and contributed more than $3.9 million to social justice action in Asia, Africa, Latin America and Canada. Wed, 24 Nov 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201011/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201011/index.php "We shine a light on what is happening to the most marginalized people in the world. And we support their own efforts in seeking safety, security and justice." Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia/MuseumofMemory.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia/MuseumofMemory.php Memory is the foundation of the process of healing – individual and societal –­ after war, the survivors’ affirmation of their experience, and the basis of social resolve to prevent such horrors in the future. Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://foodsecurecanada.org http://foodsecurecanada.org Inter Pares invites our Montr蠬 area supporters to attend “Weaving together food policy and community action: an agenda for change”, Food Secure Canada’s 2010 Assembly. Mon, 28 Oct 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www2.parl.gc.ca/HousePublications/Publication.aspx?DocId=4687757&Language=E&Mode=1&Parl=40&Ses=3 http://www2.parl.gc.ca/HousePublications/Publication.aspx?DocId=4687757&Language=E&Mode=1&Parl=40&Ses=3 In October 2010, Zaynab Elsawi of the Sudanese Women Empowerment for Peace, testified before the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development. Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/action/FSCEarthGrab.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/action/FSCEarthGrab.php Inter Pares and Food Secure Canada invite you to this exciting kick-off to FSC’s 2010 conference! The rush to grow ‘biomass’ for fuels and industrial uses will eat up $15 trillion – but won’t feed people, or stop climate change. Join us at this public forum November 26 in Montreal. Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.backpackteam.org http://www.backpackteam.org Dr Cynthia Maung, Director of the Mae Tao Clinic, has launched this urgent report on the health of people living in the conflict zones of eastern Burma. One in 14 women in eastern Burma are infected with Pf malaria, one of the highest rates in the world, and 60% of deaths of children under five are from preventable and treatable diseases. Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201009/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201009/index.php In March of 2010, Inter Pares staff member Rebecca Wolsak travelled to the Philippines to meet with our long-term counterpart Likhaan, a primary health organization that works in impoverished communities. Rebecca also invited Dr. Cynthia Maung, from the Mae Tao Clinic based on the Thailand-Burma border. This is an excerpt from Rebecca's trip report. Mon, 29 Aug 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/pdf/CCROpeningAddress.pdf http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/pdf/CCROpeningAddress.pdf In June, 2010, Inter Pares’ Karen Cocq was invited to address organizations involved in the settlement, sponsorship, and protection of refugees and immigrants at a consultation held by the Canadian Council for Refugees. Karen spoke of Inter Pares’ long history of supporting the struggles of displaced peoples around the world, and highlighted the need to see ‘refugee rights’ as only one part of the much broader issue of migrant justice. Mon, 29 Aug 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/index.php In every place that Inter Pares works, a central issue is the uncertainty people face about their future on the land they call home. This Bulletin describes how Inter Pares and our counterparts defend people against displacement from their land and homes, and promote the policies required to sustain rural livelihoods and urban communities. Thur, 27 May 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/action/enviropig.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/action/enviropig.php A new genetically engineered pig developed at the University of Guelph could soon be on our farms – and our dinner tables! "Enviropig" is the trademarked name for a pig genetically engineered to produce less polluting phosphorous in its feces. But the Canadian Biotechnology Action Network says this is a risky technological “fix” to a problem that already has a solution: smaller pig farms, in less concentrated land areas. What do you think? Thur, 27 May 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia/morbia.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia/morbia.php Rita Morbia was elected to the Board of Directors in the May Annual General Meeting of the members of the Canadian Council for International Cooperation. Established in 1968, the Council brings to the Canadian foreign policy-making arena the unique experience and knowledge of over 100 Canadian development practitioners and their Southern partners. Thur, 27 May 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/2010_AGM.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/2010_AGM.php Join us on Monday, April 26th in Ottawa. Our guest speaker is Firoze Manji – Kenyan activist, award-winning editor and leading social justice intellectual. With his brilliant and humorous speaking style and outside-the-box thinking, Firoze will explore this global moment in which we live, and the potential to transform our hopes and doubts into global solidarity. Long-time Inter Pares staff member Peter Gillespie will highlight special moments of social justice activism in his 25-year history with Inter Pares. Visit our website for details. Tues, 27 Apr 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/ar-2009/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/ar-2009/index.php Several years ago, an Inter Pares staff member had the opportunity to participate in a biodiversity festival in Andhra Pradesh, India, organized by the Deccan Development Society. It was an extraordinary sight. The festival was comprised of women farmers who walked from village to village, accompanied by a procession of carts pulled by oxen garlanded with flowers. The carts, decorated with sheaves of grain, flowers, and colourful fabrics, carried baskets of seed varieties the women saved and used in the growing season. The women sang and danced, proudly displaying the rich biodiversity that is the foundation of their agriculture. When the procession ended... Tues, 27 Apr 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/burma_announcement.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/burma_announcement.php In March 2010, the Canadian International Development Agency signed a five-year agreement with Inter Pares to continue its support to our program in Asia with Burmese refugee and exile communities who have fled Burma’s brutal dictatorship. This program prioritizes attention to vulnerable groups – particularly women and displaced communities, as well as ethnic minorities that are severely oppressed by the country’s regime. Tues, 27 Apr 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.takebacktheday.ca http://www.takebacktheday.ca Celebrate Mother's Day the way her-story intended: with a little peace and justice. This year, it's time to reclaim the original meaning of Mother's Day! Give to Inter Pares – a Canadian organization working with women internationally to promote peace and justice – and send tribute cards to the women making a difference in your life. Pay homage to your mother, remember your grandmother, or recognize any person important to you. Tues, 27 Apr 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#control http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#control Inter Pares collaborators ȴienne Roy-Gr覯ire and Jamie Kneen testified before the Standing Parliamentary Committee on International Trade on December 1, 2009. They presented the results of a joint study by Inter Pares, Mr Roy-Gr覯ire, Mining Watch Canada and CENSAT Agua Viva on Canadian investment in the mining and oil sectors in Colombia. Their presentation contributed to the committee’s reflections on Canada-South America trade relations. Tues, 27 Apr 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#violence http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#violence In November 2009, Inter Pares’ Rebecca Wolsak was invited to testify before the Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights as part of its examination of Canada’s international and national human rights obligations, particularly concerning women, peace and security. Rebecca spoke of the experiences of our Burmese counterparts who have documented rape as a weapon of war in Burma, and their recommendations about how to address it. Tues, 27 Apr 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201002/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/201002/index.php Last September, Inter Pares colleague Charm Tong testified before Canada’s Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development. Charm Tong told the members of the committee that she was a refugee from Shan State in Burma, and that she had grown up in an orphanage on the Thai-Burma border. She explained how hundreds of thousands of people like her had become refugees as a result of the war conducted by the Burmese military junta. Tues, 2 Feb 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://www.womensworlds.ca/call-participation http://www.womensworlds.ca/call-participation “Inclusions, Exclusions, and Seclusions: Living in a Globalized World” is the theme of this international and interdisciplinary gathering of and about women, to be held in Ottawa-Gatineau from July 3-7, 2011. The event will convene a diversity of minds and experiences to delve into some of the most pressing issues of our time. The Call for Participation has recently been officially launched; organizers are looking for insights from academia, community, and everywhere in between. Tues, 2 Feb 2010 15:25:00 GMT http://kairoscanada.org/en/ http://kairoscanada.org/en/ KAIROS, an ecumenical partnership that works internationally on issues of social justice, has recently learned that the government of Canada will no longer fund their activities. Inter Pares considers the work undertaken by KAIROS to be credible, meaningful, and courageous. The decision to end this 35-year funding relationship will not only jeopardize KAIROS’s work but also calls into question the government’s commitment to human rights. We encourage you to learn more and respond to KAIROS's urgent appeal. Tues, 15 Dec 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/what/Highlights2009.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/what/Highlights2009.php In 2009, Inter Pares contributed more than $6 million in financial support, as well as political and organizational assistance to sustain the work of our counterparts in Asia, Africa, Latin America and Canada. The following are highlights from some of these activities. Thurs, 26 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.miningwatch.ca/en/urgent-action-support-legislation-hold-canadian-mining-companies-account-abuses-overseas http://www.miningwatch.ca/en/urgent-action-support-legislation-hold-canadian-mining-companies-account-abuses-overseas The Canadian government has consistently failed to create meaningful measures to regulate the activities of Canadian mining companies operating overseas. A private member's bill, number C-300, represents the best chance for urgently needed regulation. It is currently being reviewed by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development. Your letters in support of Bill C-300 are urgently needed to ensure that Canadian mining companies live up to international human rights and labour standards and environmental best practices when they operate overseas, and that government financial and political support are not provided to companies that abuse human rights and the environment. 26 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#economy http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#economy This article, written by Inter Pares staff member Peter Gillespie and published in Au Courant, states that each year hundreds of billions of dollars are illegally transferred out of developing countries. This massive loss of domestic resources, which is far greater than aid inflows, maintains poverty, contributes to inequality, and deprives developing countries of the ability to invest in essential public goods and services. It is only recently that the role of offshore tax havens in enabling these losses has been examined. The article outlines the scope of the problem as well as proposed civil society measures. Mon, 26 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.givesomethingbig.com/ http://www.givesomethingbig.com/ Our holiday tradition continues: to offer an ethical and environmentally friendly gift option to all. It's called "Give Something Big." After all, what could be bigger than equality, social justice, or peace on planet Earth? This year, give those on your shopping list a contribution to creating a better world and send cards that move with meaning. By making a donation to Inter Pares, you'll support organizations around the world working towards social transformation. You'll also receive up to ten printed or electronic cards that you can personalize (attach your own photo to an e-card!). By mail or by e-mail, your loved ones can receive a card that says that sometimes, our fondest holiday wish is something that just won't fit under a tree. Mon, 2 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/200911/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/200911/index.php As Kalissa admits, her story is different than that of the typical farm family. Growing up in rural Saskatchewan, she has seen many farms disappear and never dreamt of becoming a farmer herself. Like many other farmers, Kalissa's parents encouraged their children to keep their options open, get a university education and leave the farm. Kalissa's older siblings all became engineers and she ended up in British Columbia, first studying horticulture, and later, jazz. It was on campus, and not on the farm, that Kalissa started to really think about food for the first time. As she puts it, “As commercial grain growers, we don't eat what we grow. Farmers are often just as disconnected from their food as others.” Mon, 2 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/risingfromtheashes/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/risingfromtheashes/index.php Peru's civil war killed close to 70,000 people, and left hundreds of survivors of sexual violence, primarily indigenous women. Hidden from view high in the Andes, the brutality of the armed conflict shocked Peruvians when the truth was revealed in 2003. Inter Pares' 30-minute film Rising From the Ashes presents an inspiring story of women taking on new roles in Peru and seeking a more just and peaceful society. The film will be screened in Toronto on November 9th as part of the "Women, Violence and Resistance" series of the Centre for Women's Studies in Education at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto. Please see our website for more details. Mon, 2 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/beyondhunger.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/beyondhunger.php The food system is at a crossroads. What food future will we choose? Join Inter Pares, the National Farmers Union and friends for a free evening in Ottawa on Thursday, November 26th, where we will hear from farmers, farm movement leaders, and global thinkers from Canada and the global South. Please see our website for more details. Mon, 2 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#control http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#control This report, researched by Mining Watch Canada, CENSAT-Agua Viva, and Inter Pares, looks at four case studies of Canadian extractive industry investment projects in Colombia, analyzing their associated potential human rights risks. Referring to principles developed by the UN Special Representative on Human Rights and Transnational Corporations, the report identifies issues and circumstances that clearly indicate that independent human rights impact assessments are necessary. Mon, 2 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#control http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#control Canada's recently signed free trade agreement with Colombia and engagement to increase the use of biofuels in Canada are bound to increase the volume of importation of palm oil from Colombia. However, the cultivation of African oil palm in Colombia in recent decades has been directly related to violence perpetrated by right-wing paramilitaries against Afro-Colombian communities. This report examines the socio-economic, human rights, cultural, and environmental impacts of the expanding production of African oil palm and analyzes Canada's current and future role. Mon, 2 Nov 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/action/saffron.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/action/saffron.php The end of September marks the second anniversary of the Saffron Revolution. Over the course of several weeks in 2007, a few activists who took to the streets grew into a movement of thousands of monks, nuns, elderly and youth – individuals risking their lives in cities all over Burma to stand up for democracy and peace. Their audacity was blunted by the military might of the ruling junta, but their spirit and commitment continues. Inter Pares invites you to engage in this movement for peace. Mon, 7 Sep 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/augusta.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/augusta.php Long-term Inter Pares colleague Augusta Henriques will be a keynote speaker at the annual convention of L'Entraide Missionnaire, September 12-13 in Montreal (in French only). Under the convention's theme of “Le monde en crises: Quelles voies de sorties?”, Augusta will be speaking alongside personalities such as Jacques G諩nas. A dedicated environmental activist from Guinea-Bissau and former colleague of Paulo Freire, Augusta will address the topic of “Crise alimentaire : perspectives africaines.” Mon, 7 Sep 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-sept_2009/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-sept_2009/index.php The daily newspapers sit on the kitchen table at the Inter Pares office, where everyone can flip through their pages and see the headlines. Fear. Crisis. Security. Risk. These words are used to describe a range of world events, simplifying complex problems into bite-sized concepts. As we read them, we are encouraged to worry about the world we live in and to fear certain people with whom we share this planet. But headlines and articles have no meaning if they are stripped of context. Mon, 7 Sep 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/risingfromtheashes/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/risingfromtheashes/index.php Peru's civil war, which raged from 1980 to 2000, killed more than 69,000 people, and left hundreds of survivors of sexual violence, primarily indigenous women. Hidden from view high in the Andes, the brutality of the conflict shocked Peruvians when it was revealed in the 2003 Truth and Reconciliation Commission (CVR) report. The CVR's evidence confirmed that during the armed conflict, rape was systematically used by the army as a weapon against civilian indigenous women. Yet while women suffered, the conflict also spurred them to take on new roles, often as community leaders. Fri, 5 June 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-june_2009/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-june_2009/index.php In July 2008, Inter Pares staff Nadia Faucher and Karen Cocq travelled to Peru to participate in a regional exchange on truth, justice, and reparation (TJR), organized by Inter Pares' main counterpart in Latin America – Project Counselling Service (PCS). Nadia and Karen were among a group of thirty-five participants from Peru, Guatemala, and Colombia who spent a week together sharing their experiences with armed conflict, and learning about strategies of the victims' movement to push for redress. Fri, 5 June 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/photo_essay/9/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/photo_essay/9/index.php In July 2008, Inter Pares staff Nadia Faucher and Karen Cocq travelled to Peru to participate in a regional exchange on processes of truth, justice, and reparation (TJR), organized by Inter Pares' main counterpart in Latin America – Project Counselling Service (PCS). Nadia and Karen were among a group of thirty-five participants from Peru, Guatemala, and Colombia who spent a week together sharing their experiences with armed conflict, and learning about strategies of the victims' movements to push for redress. This piece was inspired by Nadia's photos and travel journal. Fri, 5 June 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/ar-2008/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/ar-2008/index.php Every year, as we prepare this report, we are struck with the mix of the familiar and the new that each year brings. Like so many people, we fnd plenty of evidence that little really changes, and the world continues to confound our hopes for what we know is possible. Sometimes we even fail to imagine how things could work differently, so convinced are we of the permanence of the world as we know it. Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/karen.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/karen.php On March 4th, 2009, Karen Seabrooke received one of the first annual “Femmy” Awards during an evening to celebrate International Women's Day in Ottawa. She was nominated by Inter Pares for her feminist work to promote justice and equality for women. Here is the text of her nomination, which presents a glimpse of the important contributions Karen has made through her work at Inter Pares. Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia.php 2009 is an important year for Burma. As part of their “seven-step road map to democracy”, the military regime, the State Peace and Development Council, will hold national elections in the beginning of 2010. Human rights defender and democracy activist Victor Biak Lian was interviewed on Radio-Canada International (RCI) January 1st, 2009 with a look at the year ahead for Burma. One of the founders of Chin Human Rights Organization, Victor has worked in Burma's democracy movement for well over twenty years; in this interview he reflects on the situation in Burma, and the significance of the lead-up to what is largely anticipated to be a fraudulent national election. Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia.php Roch Tass窠coordinator of the International Civil Liberties Monitoring Group, was interviewed by CKUT, McGill University's campus-community radio station, March 22nd, 2009. The interview focused on the recently re-introduced anti-terror legislation by Canada's Conservative government, who have brought back two controversial provisions within the post-9/11 Anti-Terrorism Act. If passed, the recently tabled legislation would once again extend policing powers such as investigative hearings and preventive arrests. Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#violence http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#violence This report and reflection paper documents a roundtable convened by Inter Pares in September 2007. This event brought together over twenty women's rights activists from Africa, Asia, Latin America and Canada, who have significant experience working on issues related to sexual violence against women in armed conflict. This report presents the tensions, dilemmas, and contradictions confronting work on sexual violence against women in armed conflict, as well as the political and institutional challenges and opportunities. Mon, 2 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/2009_AGM.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/2009_AGM.php Please join Inter Pares on the occasion of our 2009 Annual General Meeting: "Water in the Desert: Finding hope in uncertain times." Our guest speaker is Pat Mooney, Executive Director of ETC Group. In his engaging style, Pat will entertain and provoke as he leads us in an exploration of the optimism and opportunities to be found in uncertainty. Wed, 15 Apr 2009 15:25:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/ed.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/ed.php It is with pleasure that Inter Pares' Board of Directors announces the appointment of Rita Morbia as our new Executive Director, effective March 1st, 2009. Rita joined Inter Pares in 2001 as a program manager for Asia; her responsibilities have focused on managing Inter Pares' Burma program and liaising with the Canadian International Development Agency's (CIDA) Voluntary Sector Program. Inter Pares is also bidding a fond adieu to our current Executive Director, Molly Kane. Molly will be leaving the organization after fifteen years, including twelve years as Executive Director. Mon, 2 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#engagement http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/reportsandpresentations.php#engagement Fundraising for social change is about building a financial and political base for socially transformative programs. In Inter Pares staff members Samantha McGavin and Rachel Gouin's article, they outline ways in which the Internet and e-mail can be harnessed in this movement-building. This article is available directly from the Grassroots Institute for Fundraising Training for a nominal fee. Mon, 2 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT http://www.pambazuka.org/en/issue/407 http://www.pambazuka.org/en/issue/407 Canada's engagement with Africa is frequently seen as 'progressive' or perhaps anodyne. But the reality is murkier. This special issue, jointly published by Pambazuka News and AfricaFiles, analyzes why Canada became a superpower in mining investments and why Canadian stock exchanges are a global centre for risky investments. The issue includes case studies from the DRC, Ghana, Tanzania, and a report on Canadian civil society efforts to hold our companies accountable for overseas activity. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 16:00:00 GMT http://embassymag.ca/page/view/venezuela_colombia-10-8-2008 http://embassymag.ca/page/view/venezuela_colombia-10-8-2008 In this article, Inter Pares staff member Jean Symes offers her perspective on Canada's engagement with Colombia. Mon, 2 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/multimedia.php Rachel Gouin, Inter Pares staff member, was interviewed by Radio-Canada during our holiday campaign "Give Something Big" ("Emballez-vous!" in French). Mon, 2 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT http://www.rcinet.ca/rci/en/emissions/archives/archivesDetails_1952_25122008.shtml http://www.rcinet.ca/rci/en/emissions/archives/archivesDetails_1952_25122008.shtml December 22, 2007, a paramilitary group massacred over forty indigenous Tsotsiles members of Las Abejas, a civil society organization in Southern Mexico. Those killed were mainly women and children living in a refugee camp in Acteal, in the state of Chiapas. They were civilian casualties of an ongoing armed conflict that began with the 1994 Zapatista uprising in Chiapas. Inter Pares is supporting the work of the Human Rights Centre Fray Bartolome de las Casas, or Frayba, in pursuing justice for Las Abejas. Frayba member Michael Chamberlin, who works with victims of the armed conflict in Chiapas, was interviewed on Radio-Canada International (RCI) on December 25th, 2008. Mon, 2 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-feb_2009/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-feb_2009/index.php Staff member Rachel Gouin recently travelled to Guinea-Bissau to meet with young organizers who are building a better future for their country. The following is an excerpt from Rachel's trip report. Mon, 2 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/job_opening.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/job_opening.php Job openings for Program manager and Fundraising manager. Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:12:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-nov_2008/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-nov_2008/index.php In 2008, the world food crisis reached unprecedented levels. In many parts of the world, grain prices doubled or even tripled. Food riots erupted on various continents, and desperate pleas were made by the World Food Program for governments to increase their support to food aid to feed 850 million hungry people. Mon, 3 Nov 2008 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-sept_2008/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-sept_2008/index.php When floodlights from armoured cars blinded sixteen-year-old Tin Maung Htoo and the hundreds of other demonstrators, they sat down in unison still singing protest songs. Tin heard automatic rifle fire and closed his eyes, "because I knew we were going to die." Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/burmese_cyclone.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/burmese_cyclone.php Some of Inter Pares' counterparts that are based on the Thai-Burma border have organized to help communities devastated by Cyclone Nargis. This coalition has extensive community networks within the country, and is supporting affected communities directly without passing through official humanitarian channels controlled by Burma's military regime. Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/emi.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/events/emi.php To mark the 50th anniversary of our long-time colleagues L'Entraide missionnaire, Inter Pares is proud to support their annual Congress, September 6 - 7, Ahunstic College, 9055 rue St-Hubert, Montreal. Under the theme "D'hier �emain : des voies de solidarit窢 the congress will address issues such as human rights, justice and peace, citizen perspectives on globalization, and liberation theology. Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/photo_essay/8/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/photo_essay/8/index.php It is hard to imagine life in Burma under the military regime of the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC). The generals have extensive systems for controlling the content and flow of information into or out of this beleaguered nation. Inter Pares has been working with community-based organizations from Burma since 1991. Through the eyes of colleagues in these organizations we get a unique perspective on life in Burma - here, we provide a rare glimpse of the reality of life under this cruel regime. Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-june_2008/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/bulletins/html/bul-june_2008/index.php From April 28 to May 1, farm and civil society leaders from Argentina, Canada, Mexico, Paraguay, and the Philippines toured six Canadian cities. Under the title "Cars, Crops and Climate Change," they revealed how producing crops for fuel is already changing world agriculture, with major consequences for people, ecosystems and the planet. The public forum in Ottawa was recorded and can be watched online. Wed, 4 Jun 2008 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/pdf/caas_presentation_edmonton_may3.pdf http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/pdf/caas_presentation_edmonton_may3.pdf Molly offers her reflection on issues and dilemmas facing international NGOs today dedicated to international solidarity with people in Africa. By exploring the political economy of the aid industry and its implications for work promoting social justice and peace in the world, she invites us to press our government for concrete actions and also raises fundamental questions for anyone interested in global solidarity. Wed, 4 Jun 2008 16:00:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/audio/CFRC-Women's_Word_2007-10-26_32kbps.mp3 http://www.interpares.ca/audio/CFRC-Women's_Word_2007-10-26_32kbps.mp3 In September 2007, during her last visit to Canada, Asha El-Karib from the Gender Centre for Research and Training in Sudan was interviewed by Women's Word, CFRC 101.9 FM, Queen's Campus Radio in Kingston. Asha shares some of her experiences as a women's rights activist in Sudan and provides a feminist analysis regarding some of the recent changes in her country. Fri, 7 Dec 2007 20:15:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/audio/CFRC-Women's_Word_2007-11-02_32kbps.mp3 http://www.interpares.ca/audio/CFRC-Women's_Word_2007-11-02_32kbps.mp3 In September 2007, during her last visit to Canada, Asha El-Karib from the Gender Centre for Research and Training in Sudan was interviewed by Women's Word, CFRC 101.9 FM, Queen's Campus Radio in Kingston. Asha shares some of her experiences as a women's rights activist in Sudan and provides a feminist analysis regarding some of the recent changes in her country. Fri, 7 Dec 2007 20:15:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/photo_essay/7/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/photo_essay/7/index.php In this photo essay, Inter Pares staff member Eric Chaurette provides an inside perspective on the exciting social movements coming together to advance the global movement for food sovereignty. From an international gathering in Mali to farmers' fields in Guinea Bissau, the photo essay provides a glimpse of this rapidly growing movement taking root in Africa and globally. Fri, 7 Dec 2007 20:15:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/video/burma.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/video/burma.php During the recent peaceful demonstrations in Burma that were brutally crushed by the regime, many Canadian organizations working in solidarity with Burmese social movements were contacted by media. Inter Pares answered many of these calls from newspaper, radio and television reporters. Wed, 7 Nov 2007 19:05:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/pdf/Embassy_article.pdf http://www.interpares.ca/en/publications/pdf/Embassy_article.pdf In this article, which was published in Embassy (www.embassymag.ca), Inter Pares counterparts Asha El-Karib and Fahima Hashim outline Sudanese women's struggles for equality. Wed, 7 Nov 2007 19:05:00 GMT http://www.interpares.ca/en/photo_essay/6/index.php http://www.interpares.ca/en/photo_essay/6/index.php The photo essay "Searching for Justice in Guatemala" features photographs and excerpts from the travel journal of Samantha McGavin, who along with Alison Crosby, travelled to Guatemala, and learned more about women's struggles to rebuild their communities and society after war. Tue, 12 Jun 2007 19:10:00 GMT