Worker-farmer protests rock Mexico
A major event took place just across our border, but few U.S. media took note of it: Hundreds of thousands of workers and farmers marched through the streets of Mexico City and other Mexican cities and towns Jan. 30, demanding that their government deal with the growing economic crisis.
GOP diehards try to block stimulus plan
Despite the spreading job and foreclosure crises, with growing reports of people sleeping in alleys and tunnels, under bridges and highways, and in cars and tents, right-wing Republicans are trying to block President Obama’s National Recovery Act.
Colombian hostages released, peace hopes raised
In December, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) signaled its intention to release six prisoners. The guerrillas brought the prisoners to a clearing in Caquetá Department on Feb. 1. The three policemen and one soldier boarded two helicopters provided by Brazilian authorities that, having proceeded from Florencia, Colombia, took them to nearby Villavicencio City. There they fell into the arms of waiting family members.
Ghana: Voters also go for change they can believe in
On Jan. 7, John Evan Ata Mills was sworn in as the new President of Ghana, the third since the country became a multiparty democracy in 1992. Mills and his party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), swept elections last month, deemed free and fair by observers, and which solidified Ghana’s reputation as an African “success story.” As importantly, Ghanaian voters repudiated neo-liberalism by booting out of office a right-wing party closely tied to George W. Bush’s administration.
Making history, Bolivians approve new constitution
Bolivians celebrated long into the night following referendum approval of a new constitution by a 62 percent majority on Jan. 25. Opposition forces gained 36.4 percent of the 3.9 million votes cast. “The democratic spirit of the new constitution” represented for Mexico’s La Jornada newspaper “a notable political achievement,” unique in South America.
WORLDNOTES - February 7, 2009
Philippines: Political killings rise UN: Poverty kills babies & pregnant women Gaza: Protests vs. Israeli blockade South Africa: Labor demands Zimbabwe solution Sweden: Cancer survival varies by area Cuba: Castro on Obama, change
Give diplomacy a chance in Afghanistan
In its opening days, the Obama administration has set the stage for both diplomatic and military moves in Afghanistan and South Asia. Peace movement leaders here urge emphasis on diplomacy and economic aid, and warn that military actions will worsen the situation.
Remembering William Pomeroy
William J. Pomeroy, a legendary fighter for the independence and freedom of the Filipino people and a staunch member of the Communist Party USA, died in London Jan. 12. He was 92.
WORLD NOTES: January 31
Paraguay: Agrarian reform unveiled Uganda: Nile nations jostle over water Russia: Privatization and early death Gaza: International solidarity with victims builds Sri Lanka: “Then they came for me” Cuba: Dialogue on work and pay
The Cuban Revolution and the liberation of Africa
When the Cuban Revolution triumphed on Jan. 1 1959, its leaders openly declared their enmity for imperialism and colonialism, and began to organize material solidarity for revolutionary struggles in Africa, Asia and Latin America.
