A collection of breaking news stories about the countries where IDEX works, and the issues we address.
Guatemala
All Guatemalan Regions Improve Illiteracy Rates - Prensa-Latina, Mar 4, 2010
A Cuban literacy program is working towards eradicating illiteracy in all Guatemalan provinces.
India
Indian upper house approves women's quota bill - BBC.co.uk, Mar 9, 2010
Parliament approved a bill to reserve a third of all seats in the national parliament and state legislatures for women. Currently women occupy about 10% of seats.
Mexico
Battle to Preserve Baja's Whale Nursery Celebrated, but Threats Remain - OneEarth.org, Mar 8, 2010
A historic victory 10 years ago gave the whale population a chance to remain steady. Corporations, like Mitsubishi, are still interested in developing the area.
Nepal
Murders and death threats to silence Nepali media - Speroforum.com, Mar 06, 2010
The government recently acknowledged that police are concerned about media investigations into illegal police activities; this concern has led to the muder of prominent media figures.
South Africa
Zuma Wraps Up UK Visit - AllAfrica.com, Mar 5, 2010
President Jacob Zuma was in Britain attending a business seminar. The seminar will discuss climate change, the global economy, and international trade.
Zimbabwe
Government Revising Empowerment Rules - Chris Muronzi, AllAfrica.com, Mar 5, 2010
A business regulation designed to "broaden the ownership structures… as to also involve our own citizens" by suggesting 51% of shares to be sold to blacks.
Asia
Pesticides pose health risks - The Pesticide Action Network, Feb 25, 2010
The Pesticide Action Network is concerned about the "unacceptably high health risks" suffered by several Asian countries. Studies found that pesticide poisoning is severely under reported.
Nepal
Leprosy eradication could be years away - IRIN News, Feb 19, 2010
Leprosy is on the decline but authorities are concerned that this knowledge will breed complacency. There is also a concern that the country will now receive less funding for battling the disease.
Guatemala
Indigenous women in Guatemala and climate change - Guatemala Times, Feb 18 2010
Several organizations have come together to promote the involvement of women in issues regarding climate change. It is believed that, worldwide, "women have the potential to mobilize against climate change".
Mexico
Five peasants slain in land feud in Mexico - Earth Times, Feb 21, 2010
Two communities in Oaxaca have a long-standing feud over an area of land. Their recent violence has resulted on the loss of members from both communities.
Africa
Finding the food crops of the future - IRIN News, Feb 24, 2010
Research institutions have been concerned about how climate change will impact Africa's ability to grow food in the future. Michigan State University began working on a computerized research model years ago.
Zimbabwe
Union leader back in hiding after police raid - Alex Bell, Feb 25 2010
Gertrude Hambira has been hunted several times since reports on government land grabs were published. Hambira is the Secretary General of the General Agriculture and Plantation Workers Union of Zimbabwe (GAPWUZ). Amnesty International is calling for a stop on intimidation of all GAPWUZ staff.
Guatemala
World Coffee Conference in Guatemala - Barbara Schieber, Guatemala Times, Feb 15, 2010
This year’s conference theme is "Coffee for the future: Towards a sustainable coffee sector." Topics will include environmental and social sustainability.
India
What an Eggplant Uproar Says About India's Economy - Madhur Singh, Time.com, Feb 15, 2010
The GMO debate continues. There are arguments over safety, cost, regulations and the government's motive.
Mexico
Celebrating Indigenous Culture, Zapotec Autonomy and Uncontaminated Corn - Ramor Ryan, Upside Down World - Feb 15, 2010
A small village celebrates their heritage and defends their right to live with uncontaminated crops. Communities recall and celebrate prior victories at this fourth annual international gathering.
Nepal
UN human rights office condemns threats to journalists after killing - UN, Feb 15, 2010
United Nations officials are concerned over threats being made to journalists who are following the story of Jamim Shah's murder. Mr. Shah is a media entrepreneur who was shot on February 7th.
South Africa
Joy as siblings go to school for first time - IOL, Feb 16, 2010
An educational organization is on the lookout for children who are not enrolled in school. Parents are encouraged to enroll their children even if they lack the necessary documents.
Zimbabwe
EU imposes another year of sanctions - IRIN News, Feb 16, 2010
The European Union first imposed sanctions, such as freezing bank accounts and banning travel, in 2002. The EU will continue to extend their sanctions in Zimbabwe as long as they feel there is no progress in areas such as human rights and democratic elections.
Vini takes on the role from Pete Stanga who left IDEX in December after 6 years as Executive Director for a new opportunity in his career. While the organization will miss Pete, we have every reason to look forward to a bright future in the years ahead.
Vini is taking leadership of a competent and highly tenured staff. She enters this role at a time when IDEX is even better positioned, to serve our partners and communities. This is as a direct result of key accomplishments, such as, the completion of the website and strategic planning process, and our expanded grantmaking – accomplishments that serves the organization well now and as we move forward.
Vini bring to IDEX a wealth of management experience. She has previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of Juma Ventures, a youth development social enterprise program in San Francisco, and she currently holds board membership at the Canadian volunteering organization, CUSO-VSO. While Vini hails from Rajasthan, India, one of the six countries where IDEX has partners, much of her career in international development has been in Africa.
Staff and Board alike are thrilled that she has accepted the position after participating in a competitive recruitment and hiring process. We ask that you join with us in extending to her our warmest welcome.
We invite you to contact us and explore our website to find out more about our new leader, our staff, the work we do and the communities we serve.
Kenneth James
Chair, IDEX Board of Directors
Guatemala
Justice groups monitor election of Attorney General and Controller General of Guatemala - Barbara Schieber, Guatemala Time, Feb 3, 2010
The May election is deemed critical for strengthening of the nation's justice system. Watch groups have already criticized the lack of transparency and are on alert for signs of more political manipulation.
India
India puts on hold first GM food crop on safety grounds - BBC News, Feb 9, 2010
Though the government approved the use of genetically modified aubergine (eggplant) seeds in India, public outcry has halted the process. India is the world's largest producer of aubergine.
Mexico
Fewer unauthorized immigrants in U.S. in 2009, government says - CNN.com, Feb 10, 2010
The decrease of illegal immigrants in the US is linked to the economic downturn. An estimated two out of three immigrants is from Mexico; the dangers and costs associated with crossing the border is not worth the risk anymore.
Nepal
Waits as 2 Armies, Former Foes, Become One - Jim Yardley NY Times, Feb 3, 2010
The integration of Nepal's two rival armies is seen as an important first step in the peace process. There is mistrust and skepticism on both sides as former rebels join the nation's security forces.
South Africa
Arms export controls in meltdown - IRIN News, Feb 2, 2010
There is a major lack of control regarding the type and quantity of weapons being imported into the country.
Zimbabwe
HIV-Positive People Want Constitutional Rights - IRIN News via AllAfrica.com, Feb 4 2010
AIDS activists are lobbying hard for AIDS/HIV sufferers to be included in the revised constitution due this year. They are asking for "provisions on non-discrimination and equal protection before the law."
Guatemala
The Best-Kept Secrets - the Military's - Danilo Valladares, IPS News, Feb 2, 2010
Government records regarding the more than 20,000 victims of the civil war will be declassified. The civil war was instigated by the CIA-organized dictatorship that began in 1954.
India
Social security system in India: an international comparative analysis - R.K. Jha & S. Bhattacharyya, Eldis,Munich Personal RePEc Archive, 2010
The comparison highlights how India's unique make-up leaves the country lacking when it comes to social security.
Mexico
Calderon Says Mexico Violence Stoked by U.S. Weapons - Patrick Harrington, Bloomberg News, Feb 2, 2010
Mexico is known for its violence and drug trafficking. President Calderon comments that Mexico is "right next to the biggest drug consumer in the world."
Nepal
Communities Take Up Cudgels for Forest Conservation - Damakant Jayshi, IPS News, Feb 2, 2010
Community forestry is taking an important role in halting deforestation. There are about 15,000 such groups in Nepal. They set aside what can be used and what should be conserved, and their efforts are showing results.
South Africa
Lack of staff to blame for beach pollution - Anel Lewis, IOL, Feb 2 2010
Raw sewage is being released into rivers. Who's to blame? An estimated 80 posts are vacant at the utilities office, which is especially surprising in a place where there's such a lack of jobs.
Zimbabwe
One Million Casualties of Land Reform - Ann Hellman, IPS News, Jan 25, 2010
Many farm workers originally supported the reform, having been assured that the land would be returned to the people. This has yet to happen, and in the meantime they're unemployed.
Guatemala
Former Guatemalan President Alfonso Portillo Arrested - BBC News, Jan 26, 2010
The Guatemalan authorities have captured former President Alfonso Portillo, who is wanted in the US on money-laundering charges.
India
Fund crunch hits midday meal plan in Prakasam - Deccan Chronicle, Jan 25, 2010
Seven years ago the government started a meal plan for school children. The funding, however, isn't enough to cover the costs and the program has been running on credit. The cooking agencies have been promised an infusion of funds.
Mexico
Wal-Mart Unveils Largest PV Installation in Latin America - Jan 20, 2009
More than 1000 panels will provide 20% of the energy used.
Nepal
Why are so many women killing themselves? - IRIN News, Jan 21, 2010
Suicide has slowly crept up the charts to become the number one cause of death amongst women. The complex issues surrounding this phenomenon have not been explored, and there seems to be no interest in funding such a study. Accidents are the second leading cause of death.
South Africa
A day in the life of a sex worker - IRIN News, Jan 22, 2010
Though illegal and dangerous, many women turn to prostitution because of lack of options. The women deal with rape, HIV and police taking their money. There is optimism about increased business during the World Cup, and worry about more competition.
Zimbabwe
Hope and crops scorched again - IRIN News, Jan 26, 2010
Continuing droughts are threatening the supply of one of Zimbabwe’s staple foods. It is estimated that about half of the maize will be lost this season. Relief agencies believe millions of Zimbabweans will require food aid once more.
Guatemala
All Guatemalan Regions Improve Illiteracy Rates - Prensa-Latina, Mar 4, 2010
A Cuban literacy program is working towards eradicating illiteracy in all Guatemalan provinces.
India
Indian upper house approves women's quota bill - BBC.co.uk, Mar 9, 2010
Parliament approved a bill to reserve a third of all seats in the national parliament and state legislatures for women. Currently women occupy about 10% of seats.
Mexico
Battle to Preserve Baja's Whale Nursery Celebrated, but Threats Remain - OneEarth.org, Mar 8, 2010
A historic victory 10 years ago gave the whale population a chance to remain steady. Corporations, like Mitsubishi, are still interested in developing the area.
Nepal
Murders and death threats to silence Nepali media - Speroforum.com, Mar 06, 2010
The government recently acknowledged that police are concerned about media investigations into illegal police activities; this concern has led to the muder of prominent media figures.
South Africa
Zuma Wraps Up UK Visit - AllAfrica.com, Mar 5, 2010
President Jacob Zuma was in Britain attending a business seminar. The seminar will discuss climate change, the global economy, and international trade.
Zimbabwe
Government Revising Empowerment Rules - Chris Muronzi, AllAfrica.com, Mar 5, 2010
A business regulation designed to "broaden the ownership structures… as to also involve our own citizens" by suggesting 51% of shares to be sold to blacks.
Labels: Guatemala, India, Mexico, Nepal, South Africa, Zimbabwe
A collection of breaking news stories about the countries where IDEX works, and the issues we address.Asia
Pesticides pose health risks - The Pesticide Action Network, Feb 25, 2010
The Pesticide Action Network is concerned about the "unacceptably high health risks" suffered by several Asian countries. Studies found that pesticide poisoning is severely under reported.
Nepal
Leprosy eradication could be years away - IRIN News, Feb 19, 2010
Leprosy is on the decline but authorities are concerned that this knowledge will breed complacency. There is also a concern that the country will now receive less funding for battling the disease.
Guatemala
Indigenous women in Guatemala and climate change - Guatemala Times, Feb 18 2010
Several organizations have come together to promote the involvement of women in issues regarding climate change. It is believed that, worldwide, "women have the potential to mobilize against climate change".
Mexico
Five peasants slain in land feud in Mexico - Earth Times, Feb 21, 2010
Two communities in Oaxaca have a long-standing feud over an area of land. Their recent violence has resulted on the loss of members from both communities.
Africa
Finding the food crops of the future - IRIN News, Feb 24, 2010
Research institutions have been concerned about how climate change will impact Africa's ability to grow food in the future. Michigan State University began working on a computerized research model years ago.
Zimbabwe
Union leader back in hiding after police raid - Alex Bell, Feb 25 2010
Gertrude Hambira has been hunted several times since reports on government land grabs were published. Hambira is the Secretary General of the General Agriculture and Plantation Workers Union of Zimbabwe (GAPWUZ). Amnesty International is calling for a stop on intimidation of all GAPWUZ staff.
Labels: Asia, Guatemala, Mexico, Nepal, South Africa, Zimbabwe
A collection of breaking news stories about the countries where IDEX works, and the issues we address.Guatemala
World Coffee Conference in Guatemala - Barbara Schieber, Guatemala Times, Feb 15, 2010
This year’s conference theme is "Coffee for the future: Towards a sustainable coffee sector." Topics will include environmental and social sustainability.
India
What an Eggplant Uproar Says About India's Economy - Madhur Singh, Time.com, Feb 15, 2010
The GMO debate continues. There are arguments over safety, cost, regulations and the government's motive.
Mexico
Celebrating Indigenous Culture, Zapotec Autonomy and Uncontaminated Corn - Ramor Ryan, Upside Down World - Feb 15, 2010
A small village celebrates their heritage and defends their right to live with uncontaminated crops. Communities recall and celebrate prior victories at this fourth annual international gathering.
Nepal
UN human rights office condemns threats to journalists after killing - UN, Feb 15, 2010
United Nations officials are concerned over threats being made to journalists who are following the story of Jamim Shah's murder. Mr. Shah is a media entrepreneur who was shot on February 7th.
South Africa
Joy as siblings go to school for first time - IOL, Feb 16, 2010
An educational organization is on the lookout for children who are not enrolled in school. Parents are encouraged to enroll their children even if they lack the necessary documents.
Zimbabwe
EU imposes another year of sanctions - IRIN News, Feb 16, 2010
The European Union first imposed sanctions, such as freezing bank accounts and banning travel, in 2002. The EU will continue to extend their sanctions in Zimbabwe as long as they feel there is no progress in areas such as human rights and democratic elections.
Labels: Guatemala, India, Mexico, Nepal, Newsflash, South Africa, South Africa Zimbabwe
On behalf of the Board of Directors and the IDEX Staff, I am pleased and honored to announce the appointment of our new Executive Director, Rajasvini ("Vini") Bhansali. Vini has served as IDEX's Interim Executive Director since early December and was a Program Officer at IDEX for the past year.Vini takes on the role from Pete Stanga who left IDEX in December after 6 years as Executive Director for a new opportunity in his career. While the organization will miss Pete, we have every reason to look forward to a bright future in the years ahead.
Vini is taking leadership of a competent and highly tenured staff. She enters this role at a time when IDEX is even better positioned, to serve our partners and communities. This is as a direct result of key accomplishments, such as, the completion of the website and strategic planning process, and our expanded grantmaking – accomplishments that serves the organization well now and as we move forward.
Vini bring to IDEX a wealth of management experience. She has previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of Juma Ventures, a youth development social enterprise program in San Francisco, and she currently holds board membership at the Canadian volunteering organization, CUSO-VSO. While Vini hails from Rajasthan, India, one of the six countries where IDEX has partners, much of her career in international development has been in Africa.
Staff and Board alike are thrilled that she has accepted the position after participating in a competitive recruitment and hiring process. We ask that you join with us in extending to her our warmest welcome.
We invite you to contact us and explore our website to find out more about our new leader, our staff, the work we do and the communities we serve.
Kenneth James
Chair, IDEX Board of Directors
Labels: Executive Director, Rajasvini Bhansali, Vini Bhansali
A collection of breaking news stories about the countries where IDEX works, and the issues we address.Guatemala
Justice groups monitor election of Attorney General and Controller General of Guatemala - Barbara Schieber, Guatemala Time, Feb 3, 2010
The May election is deemed critical for strengthening of the nation's justice system. Watch groups have already criticized the lack of transparency and are on alert for signs of more political manipulation.
India
India puts on hold first GM food crop on safety grounds - BBC News, Feb 9, 2010
Though the government approved the use of genetically modified aubergine (eggplant) seeds in India, public outcry has halted the process. India is the world's largest producer of aubergine.
Mexico
Fewer unauthorized immigrants in U.S. in 2009, government says - CNN.com, Feb 10, 2010
The decrease of illegal immigrants in the US is linked to the economic downturn. An estimated two out of three immigrants is from Mexico; the dangers and costs associated with crossing the border is not worth the risk anymore.
Nepal
Waits as 2 Armies, Former Foes, Become One - Jim Yardley NY Times, Feb 3, 2010
The integration of Nepal's two rival armies is seen as an important first step in the peace process. There is mistrust and skepticism on both sides as former rebels join the nation's security forces.
South Africa
Arms export controls in meltdown - IRIN News, Feb 2, 2010
There is a major lack of control regarding the type and quantity of weapons being imported into the country.
Zimbabwe
HIV-Positive People Want Constitutional Rights - IRIN News via AllAfrica.com, Feb 4 2010
AIDS activists are lobbying hard for AIDS/HIV sufferers to be included in the revised constitution due this year. They are asking for "provisions on non-discrimination and equal protection before the law."
Labels: Guatemala, India, Mexico, Nepal, South Africa, Zimbabwe
A collection of breaking news stories about the countries where IDEX works, and the issues we address.Guatemala
The Best-Kept Secrets - the Military's - Danilo Valladares, IPS News, Feb 2, 2010
Government records regarding the more than 20,000 victims of the civil war will be declassified. The civil war was instigated by the CIA-organized dictatorship that began in 1954.
India
Social security system in India: an international comparative analysis - R.K. Jha & S. Bhattacharyya, Eldis,Munich Personal RePEc Archive, 2010
The comparison highlights how India's unique make-up leaves the country lacking when it comes to social security.
Mexico
Calderon Says Mexico Violence Stoked by U.S. Weapons - Patrick Harrington, Bloomberg News, Feb 2, 2010
Mexico is known for its violence and drug trafficking. President Calderon comments that Mexico is "right next to the biggest drug consumer in the world."
Nepal
Communities Take Up Cudgels for Forest Conservation - Damakant Jayshi, IPS News, Feb 2, 2010
Community forestry is taking an important role in halting deforestation. There are about 15,000 such groups in Nepal. They set aside what can be used and what should be conserved, and their efforts are showing results.
South Africa
Lack of staff to blame for beach pollution - Anel Lewis, IOL, Feb 2 2010
Raw sewage is being released into rivers. Who's to blame? An estimated 80 posts are vacant at the utilities office, which is especially surprising in a place where there's such a lack of jobs.
Zimbabwe
One Million Casualties of Land Reform - Ann Hellman, IPS News, Jan 25, 2010
Many farm workers originally supported the reform, having been assured that the land would be returned to the people. This has yet to happen, and in the meantime they're unemployed.
Labels: Guatemala, India, Mexico, Nepal, South Africa, Zimbabwe
A collection of breaking news stories about the countries where IDEX works, and the issues we address.Guatemala
Former Guatemalan President Alfonso Portillo Arrested - BBC News, Jan 26, 2010
The Guatemalan authorities have captured former President Alfonso Portillo, who is wanted in the US on money-laundering charges.
India
Fund crunch hits midday meal plan in Prakasam - Deccan Chronicle, Jan 25, 2010
Seven years ago the government started a meal plan for school children. The funding, however, isn't enough to cover the costs and the program has been running on credit. The cooking agencies have been promised an infusion of funds.
Mexico
Wal-Mart Unveils Largest PV Installation in Latin America - Jan 20, 2009
More than 1000 panels will provide 20% of the energy used.
Nepal
Why are so many women killing themselves? - IRIN News, Jan 21, 2010
Suicide has slowly crept up the charts to become the number one cause of death amongst women. The complex issues surrounding this phenomenon have not been explored, and there seems to be no interest in funding such a study. Accidents are the second leading cause of death.
South Africa
A day in the life of a sex worker - IRIN News, Jan 22, 2010
Though illegal and dangerous, many women turn to prostitution because of lack of options. The women deal with rape, HIV and police taking their money. There is optimism about increased business during the World Cup, and worry about more competition.
Zimbabwe
Hope and crops scorched again - IRIN News, Jan 26, 2010
Continuing droughts are threatening the supply of one of Zimbabwe’s staple foods. It is estimated that about half of the maize will be lost this season. Relief agencies believe millions of Zimbabweans will require food aid once more.
Labels: Guatemala, IDEX NewsFlash, India, Mexico, Nepal, South Africa, Zimbabwe
Blog Archive
Blogs We Like
- America’s Mexico Blog
- Change.org – Global Health
- Change.org – Social Entrepreneurship
- Change.org – Women’s Rights
- Change.org – Global Warming
- Change.org – Sustainable Food
- Civil Eats Food Access
- GlobalGiving
- Good Magazine
- Guatemala Solidarity Network
- Mexico Today
- Mimundo.org
- Need Humanitarian Magazine
- Our World 2.0
- Raj Patel’s Blog
- Sokanwele Zimbabwe
- Women’s Net Blog – South Africa
- Zimbabwe Women’s Voices
