Friday, June 30, 2017

The European Website on Integration is releasing an online tool to monitor the progress of its implementation, one year later (June 2016) that the European ...

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http://www.west-info.eu/new-tool-to-monitor-eu-actions-for-integration/

Dr Lisa Jardine-Wright - Department of Physics

The European Website on Integration is releasing an online tool to monitor the progress of its implementation, one year later (June 2016) that the European Commission launched the Action Plan for the Integration of Third Country Nationals. Designed as aaaa

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDJyzmtwjrs

Circular note on election rallies by foreign politicians in Germany

The Federal Foreign Office sent the following circular note today (30 June) to the embassies accredited in Germany:

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Appearances by foreign politicians at events in Germany that are aimed at the electorate of the foreign country require the approval of the German Government.

Such approval must be requested via a Note Verbale to the Federal Foreign Office at least ten days before the event. Approval will be granted in the light of foreign relations; it thus does not replace the necessary permits under the law of public order.

Appearances must comply with the principles of the Basic Law and the German legal system, particularly as regards the right of assembly. They may not pose a threat to public security and order.

As a general rule, approval is not granted if the speech is to be given in a period of less than three months before the date of the election or referendum; this rule does not apply to European Union Member States.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170630-Rundnote-Wahlkampfauftritte.html?nn=479796

Speech by Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the founding of the Center for International Peace Operations (ZIF)

Speech by Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth on the occasion of the 15^th anniversary of the founding of the Center for International Peace Operations (ZIF)

-- Translation of advance text --

Almut Wieland-Karimi,
Dr Kühne,
Fellow members of the German Bundestag,
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Fifteen years of the Center for International Peace Operations - what a wonderful reason to celebrate! I am saying that today not just as the Minister of State for Europe at the Federal Foreign Office but also as the Chairperson of the ZIF Supervisory Board - a position of which I am suitably proud.

Let us embark together on a journey through time - back to the year 2002 when ZIF was founded. I had a look what was dominating the headlines fifteen years ago today:

For example, “President Bush presents plan for more democracy in Middle East”.

Another headline read: “Al‑Qaida planning cyber attacks”.

And there were reports on a “historic decision”: “Russia is to become a full member of the G8”.

As you can see, even back then, we were experiencing turbulent times. Many current topics on the international agenda, from the Middle East conflict and Islamist terrorism to our relations with Russia, were also keeping us busy back then. We now have many new crisis hotspots. No matter where we turn in our world, we are seeing tragedies, war, disorder and violence in far too many places.

Over the last two decades, we have witnessed two parallel developments. On the one hand, we are living in a highly networked and ever more globalised world in which the connections between countries and people are becoming ever more close and dense. At the same time, we are seeing that this has in no respect made our world more united and peaceful. On the contrary, if anything. Even here at the heart of Europe, terrorism has hit home and our continent feels surrounded by tempestuous seas of insecurity and violence.

Furthermore, we have to learn that interventions from the outside, even if they are performed with the best of intentions, rarely bring about a reduction in violence. Peace is not something that can be dictated. It has to grow - and be bolstered, secured and, it is true, sometimes even be hard fought.

The former United Nations Under Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Jean‑Marie Guéhenno, coined a new term for this. He spoke of the “fog of peace”. The way I understand it is that the moral goal of wanting to create peace by definition goes hand in hand with insecurity, false assumptions and thwarted hopes. It is difficult to navigate this fog of peace even with the best of intentions.

Yet the difficulties on the road to lasting peace must not stop us from gearing our foreign policy energetically to this longing of humanity. Always aware that failing is a possibility. Working on and for peace is not a linear process. We must not expect war zones to become stable democracies overnight.

Ladies and gentlemen,

If ZIF didn’t exist, we would have to invent it today. After all, in this world full of crises and conflicts, civilian experts are needed more urgently than ever.

Your work and experience, colleagues, is extremely valuable. Day in, day out, you are helping to defuse crises or - even better - to prevent conflicts emerging in the first place. And you are doing so all over the world.

To give you some very concrete examples, our civilian experts are helping to build the rule of law in Kosovo, to demobilise the FARC guerilla in Colombia and to support the security forces in Mali who are fighting terrorism and organised crime. Without them, it would not be possible to implement negotiated peace agreements, such as those in the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Ukraine. You are also supporting the administrative side of the missions or are working in the Secretariat of the OSCE in Vienna or of the EU in Brussels.

Particularly in crisis areas such as eastern Ukraine or Afghanistan, our colleagues are performing excellent work in the most difficult of conditions. They are often not able to move about freely because of the tense security situation or they have to live in a staff compound or even on a military base. And they are often separated from their family and friends for long periods of time.

I would thus like to express my sincere thanks to all ZIF experts who have been involved in the last 15 years.

Your outstanding work for peace and understanding has become an unmistakeable hallmark of German foreign policy, and, colleagues, let me say that I am rather proud of this.

One thing is of particular importance to me. We do not want to express our appreciation merely with kind words. We want to improve how we support and protect our civilian experts in real life, too. And that is what the revised Secondment Act that we recently adopted in the Bundestag is meant to do.

What admittedly sounds somewhat technical and complex actually serves to make many people’s working lives easier. This law is a milestone in legal protection and social insurance for civilian personnel. We want to pay them a fair salary for their work and to ensure that they are covered as well as possible in their difficult and often dangerous missions.

I also voice my gratitude to my colleagues in all parliamentary groups in the German Bundestag for their support throughout the entire parliamentary procedure. Particularly in the run‑up to an election, that is not something we should take for granted. It shows the high esteem in which these civilian peace missions are held.

Ladies and gentlemen,

I am not sure if any of you remember but in the late 1990s, when highly qualified civilian personnel were needed for an OSCE peace mission in Kosovo, the Federal Foreign Office had to recruit suitable experts more or less out of thin air. At the time, there was simply no central organisation like the ZIF we now have in Berlin.

The foundation of ZIF in 2002 under the SPD‑Green government marked the start of a process to professionalise German staffing policy for international peace operations. With its integrated “one‑stop shop” approach of recruitment, training and support for civilian personnel, ZIF has become a role model worldwide.

Every year, it recruits over 160 experts for international peace missions and over 300 election observers. We need people for this who are experts in their field, know the region in question and are also prepared to take on managerial positions in the missions.

Ladies and gentlemen,

When you started this work 15 years ago, ZIF was pretty much an avant-garde - what is more, also far beyond Germany’s borders. In this period, the importance of civilian missions has grown steadily. Thus, also in the future, we are going to need a highly capable Center for International Peace Operations - as part of forward-looking, responsible diplomacy.

While other countries are spending yet more money on armaments and planning to save money on diplomacy and development cooperation, let us take a different approach. Particularly now, we need to invest more in our civilian capabilities. We need some kind of “diplomatic surge”, a boost for diplomacy. In the Federal Foreign Office, we recently proposed that for every euro spent on defence, we should spend 1.50 euros on diplomacy, stabilisation, humanitarian assistance and mediation.

We are living in highly explosive times - literally. We have to presume that crisis is going to continue to be the norm in the years to come. But we mustn’t lose heart. On the contrary! We have to do what we can to prepare ourselves both in terms of policy and organisation. During this legislative term, we have set things moving in the right direction and we now must stick at it and keep moving forward.

Firstly, at the institutional level: since 2014, the Federal Foreign Office has had a separate Directorate-General dealing with crisis prevention, stabilisation, post‑conflict peacebuilding and humanitarian assistance. But new bureaucratic structures do not by definition create added value. But we managed to bring together expertise, (wo)manpower and new, fresh thinking in such a way that we are now able to work more effectively and react to crises more rapidly and more directly.

Secondly, at the financial level: in recent years we have considerably increased Federal Foreign Office funding for crisis management - also thanks to the support from the German Bundestag. But it is not just a matter of feeding more money into projects. We also need to gain traction on our diplomatic efforts. Here, too, we need to invest in brains and blueprints. After all, it is clear there can be no diplomatic solutions without diplomats.

Thirdly, in terms of personnel: we need to engage in the international organisations in very practical terms as these organisations work to promote peace in the interest of us all. That is why it was right for us to increase the number of German peacekeepers, civilian experts in the United Nations and German police officers in international support missions. We need to continue ambitiously along this path. If we want international organisations such as the United Nations to do substantially more to resolve conflicts, then we have to give them the support they need.

Fourthly, in terms of strategy: here too, we have taken an important step forward. The guidelines on preventing crises, managing conflicts, building peace adopted on 14 June sketch out the strategic framework for future Federal Government engagement in crises and conflicts. We are putting the primacy of politics at the heart of our engagement in crises around the world. Particularly when drawing up these guidelines, we made intensive efforts to seek dialogue - with civil society representatives and politicians, with academics and practitioners.

Let us continue this, not just when implementing the guidelines. After all, we need to pool all our knowledge, exchange experience and have a critical think about how to best navigate our way through the fog of peace.

After all, that is the very essence of forward-looking peace diplomacy. Such diplomacy acts with courage but does not claim ownership of the absolute truth. I am pleased therefore that with the Center for International Peace Operations we have an institution which combines critical reflection with operational clout. What is more, it has been doing so for 15 years!

Almut, fellow members of the German Bundestag, we are counting on you - but only from tomorrow, because today we want to celebrate together. I congratulate you most sincerely on your anniversary and looking to the future wish you sturdy support from the Government and Parliament, team spirit, a wealth of ideas, strength and trust. A more peaceful world is possible. Yes, also precisely because we have ZIF.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Reden/2017/170627-StM_R_ZIF.html?nn=479796

Thursday, June 29, 2017

Return of the Titan

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNBIA1CRLTY

India Unboxed: Meet the meteorites?

The Skills2Work project has released an online platform which provides information on the labour market integration of refugees and beneficiaries of international protection in 9 participating EU member states: Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, andaaa

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ag1guNrfz-M

Website informing on the employment of refugees

The Skills2Work project has released an online platform which provides information on the labour market integration of refugees and beneficiaries of international protection in 9 ...

from
http://www.west-info.eu/website-informing-on-the-employment-of-refugees/

Foreign Minister Gabriel on public appearances in Germany by President Erdogan of Turkey

Speaking on the margins of his visit to Krasnodar, Russia, Foreign Minister Gabriel made the following comment today (29 June) regarding an official request by Turkey that President Erdogan be permitted to address the public in Germany:

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We have received an official request from Turkey that President Erdogan be permitted to address his compatriots in Germany on the sidelines of the G20 Summit.

I had already communicated to my Turkish colleague weeks ago that we do not believe this is a good idea. As we will be hosting the G20 Summit, we will not have sufficient police officers available to provide the necessary security. I also openly stated that such a public appearance would neither be appropriate nor politically apposite, given the current tensions that exist with Turkey.

I therefore very much understand the comments that have been made by Martin Schulz. We have a common position on this within the Federal Government. We will even go a step further. I have proposed to the Federal Chancellor that we reassess our policy. In the past, we have agreed to such public appearances, also during election campaigns. I think we should now tell all countries that are not EU members – not only Turkey – that we will not permit campaign appearances here that are intended to import another country’s internal conflicts into Germany.

It is the Federal Foreign Office’s view that this should no longer be permitted. I assume the Federal Chancellor will also think this is the right approach.

We consider the Turks who live in Germany to be fellow members of our society. All those who live in our midst, regardless of whether they are German citizens or not, are part of our country. We do not want these people to be subjected to demagoguery in connection with conflicts in their homeland.

Of course, President Erdogan is an important guest at the G20 Summit, and we will welcome him with full honours. I do not, however, believe that anything beyond that would be appropriate at this point in time.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170629-BM-TUR.html?nn=479796

Human Rights Commissioner on the worsening of the crisis in Yemen

The Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Aid at the Federal Foreign Office, Bärbel Kofler, issued the following statement today (29 June) on the occasion of today’s event in Berlin entitled "Crisis in Yemen: politics and humanitarian assistance in the context of media restraint" hosted by the German branch of the International Rescue Committee:

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I am shocked by the further worsening of the already dramatic humanitarian situation in Yemen. The war that has raged for over two years has inflicted a man-made humanitarian disaster upon this impoverished nation that has hit the weakest first – children, the elderly and the poor. The current cholera epidemic with around 5000 new suspected cases every day is exacerbating the crisis in the country still further.

The civilian population is bearing the brunt of the suffering. While humanitarian workers are attempting to do their job at great risk to life and limb, aid is not reaching many areas owing to restricted access and administrative barriers. We are greatly concerned by the fact that hostilities are claiming civilian casualties time and again. The attack on a market in Sadaa province on 18 June 2017, which claimed over 20 lives, is a case in point. Furthermore, more and more reports are detailing increasing repression and restrictions to fundamental civil and basic liberties by all parties to the conflict.

Only a political solution can put an end to this man-made crisis. The most important steps to this end are an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted and secure humanitarian access and the resumption of negotiations brokered by the United Nations. Infringements of international humanitarian law must be investigated quickly and thoroughly. An independent international commission of inquiry is the most effective tool in this regard.

Background information:

According to the United Nations, one of the world’s most serious humanitarian crises is taking place in Yemen. Some 18.8 million people are dependent on humanitarian assistance and there is a threat of famine. The current cholera outbreak has further exacerbated the situation since April. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the epidemic has already claimed in excess of 1400 lives. There are 220,000 suspected cases.

The Federal Foreign Office has increased humanitarian assistance for the country in 2017 to 125 million euros. Furthermore, Germany is funding the Track II dialogue of the Berghof Foundation, currently the only inclusive intra-Yemeni dialogue format to support the UN’s mediation efforts.

Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Aid Bärbel Kofler is patron of the #nichtvergessen (don’t forget) initiative, launched by the Federal Foreign Office together with several aid organisations. Thus aims to draw more attention to crises such as the one in Yemen.

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http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170629-MRHH_Jemen.html?nn=479796

Human traffickers take advantage of the EU’s silence

The boom in the number of immigrants arriving on Italy’s shores over the last 4 days (10,500) seems like yet another challenge to the EU’s ...

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http://www.west-info.eu/human-traffickers-take-advantage-of-the-eus-silence/

Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Foreign Minister Gabriel before leaving for Russia

Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel issued the following statement today (28 June):

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We have to keep talking to each other, even at times that are politically difficult. It’s the only way of maintaining trust. It’s the only way of solving problems peaceably.

I’m flying to Russia today to open the German-Russian town-twinning conference in Krasnodar together with my counterpart Sergey Lavrov. In spite of all our political differences, we should not forget how close and varied relations between Russians and Germans have become since the end of the Cold War. The twinning arrangements between our towns and regions play a crucial role in this regard. We have every interest in further expanding this kind of interaction between our societies.

We will only be able to overcome the major international conflicts of our times if we work together in a spirit of mutual trust. We need a constructive Russia – in Syria, Libya and Afghanistan, and likewise in eastern Ukraine. That too I will talk about with my interlocutors in Russia.

Germany and Russia: bilateral relations

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http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170628-BM_Russland.html?nn=479796

University of Bristol receives £1 million gift to launch next generation of researchers

Foreign Minister Gabriel before leaving for Russia

Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel issued the following statement today (28 June):

Zusatzinformationen

We have to keep talking to each other, even at times that are politically difficult. It’s the only way of maintaining trust. It’s the only way of solving problems peaceably.

I’m flying to Russia today to open the German-Russian town-twinning conference in Krasnodar together with my counterpart Sergey Lavrov. In spite of all our political differences, we should not forget how close and varied relations between Russians and Germans have become since the end of the Cold War. The twinning arrangements between our towns and regions play a crucial role in this regard. We have every interest in further expanding this kind of interaction between our societies.

We will only be able to overcome the major international conflicts of our times if we work together in a spirit of mutual trust. We need a constructive Russia – in Syria, Libya and Afghanistan, and likewise in eastern Ukraine. That too I will talk about with my interlocutors in Russia.

Germany and Russia: bilateral relations

from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JIiR7vErkk

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

What Do Students Think about Brexit?

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lW-2eYN4DIU

Speech by Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth on the presentation of the 14th volume of the book project “The persecution and murder of European Jews by National Socialist Germany from 1933 to 1945 – Occupied southeast Europe and Italy”

Speech by Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth on the presentation of the 14^th volume of the book project “The persecution and murder of European Jews by National Socialist Germany from 1933 to 1945 – Occupied southeast Europe and Italy”

-- Translation of advance text --

Prof. Wolfgang Schieder,
Dr Susanne Heim,
Esteemed guests,

“He who would write poetry must write poetry entire. He who would write history must have the courage to show the truth in all its nakedness.” This quote by Johann Gottfried von Herder could be a mission statement for the book that we are presenting here at the Federal Foreign Office today.

The fourteenth volume of the book project “The persecution and murder of European Jews by National Socialist Germany from 1933 to 1945 – Occupied southeast Europe and Italy” appears, at first sight, to be quite matter‑of‑fact and dry with its 812 pages in a mint-green jacket cover.

And yet this project, which began in 2003 with a new volume added to the compendium each year since then, is nothing less than a written memorial to the murdered Jews of Europe. The objective of the project is the comprehensive academic publication of central sources and documents on the history of the persecution and murder of the Jewish population on the basis of archive material from around the world.

Volume 14 contains 312 sources and documents detailing the persecution and murder of Jews in Italy, the former Yugoslavia, Greece and Albania. The fact that this volume on occupied southeast Europe and Italy is being presented here at the Federal Foreign Office shows that we are not shying away here at this Ministry from (self-)critical engagement with the darkest chapter of German history.

At the end of the day, the Federal Foreign Office also shared responsibility for the expulsion, oppression and murder of Jews in the National Socialist era. This is also reflected by documents in this volume.

Allow me to take a closer look at an example from the region, one that is particularly important to me, namely the situation of the Jewish community in Thessaloniki, which I have visited on a number of occasions in the past few years. This Jewish community, which was once so great and proud, suffered in an especially tragic way under the Nazi occupation.

Thessaloniki had been a city with an unmistakable Jewish identity for many centuries. The Holocaust almost completely destroyed this proud tradition and left deep wounds and scars in the metropolis. The city lost almost 50,000 citizens of Jewish faith in 1943.

Not only that, but its unique Jewish life – its culture, its academic heritage, its economy – was almost completely eradicated. This loss pains all of us, Jews and non‑Jews alike.
This volume traces the fate of the Jews in Greece over 150 pages and with more than one hundred documents. Instructions, communications from authorities, private letters and diary entries, as well as newspaper articles and reports by foreign observers are referenced in the process and provide an unfiltered record.

For example, in document 235 you can read the long letter by Nehama Kazes from Thessaloniki to her sons in Athens, in which she uses haunting language to describe the dramatic situation in Thessaloniki:

“Everyone is selling their things on the street so as to have something to eat. People are wasting money as if it were water. They are throwing money out of the window and letting anyone who wants to have all of their property. […] It’s like we’re in a bad dream day and night and we’re living in indescribable fear. Everyone’s packed their handcarts and put them outside their front doors.” That’s what Nehama Kazes writes in her letter.

The German Consulate General’s secret report of 15 March 1943 is also included in the volume. In this document, the then Consul General Dr Fritz Schönberg uses unsettling and bureaucratic language to describe the beginning of the deportations to Berlin:

“The resettlement of the 56,000 Jews with Greek nationality living in the locality began today with the deportation of 2600 persons from Saloniki to the General Government. It is planned to conduct four transports each week in order to complete the entire process in around six weeks.”

I have enjoyed a close dialogue with the Jewish community in Thessaloniki for almost four years now. In January 2014, I was invited to give an address on the occasion of International Holocaust Remembrance Day as a member of the Federal Government – at the place from where the Jews of Thessaloniki were deported. This powerful gesture of reconciliation, the outstretched hand of friendship, moved me greatly.

I have been back to Thessaloniki time and again since then. I am particularly delighted that the Jewish community in Thessaloniki is prepared, with the support of the Federal Government, to implement projects to continue to strengthen Jewish life in the city.

We have, for instance, supported the efforts to renovate the Monasteriotes synagogue. We are also fostering a Jewish education centre and summer gatherings of young people from Greece, Israel, Germany and other countries. And now a Greek Holocaust museum is being set up in Thessaloniki, which the Federal Government is lending its active support. This is more than a museum. It can restore some of the city’s Jewish identity and serve as a meeting place for future generations. The future always requires us to remember the past!

In Thessaloniki, I’ve often made a point of meeting up with Heinz Kunio, who is celebrating his 90^th birthday this week. He and his closest family survived the Holocaust. The circumstances were terrible. Since he spoke German, Heinz Kunio was ordered to translate the commands of the SS from German into Greek on the ramp at Auschwitz – which meant that he saw countless members of his community pass by him on the way to a cruel death in the gas chambers of the extermination camp.

In 1945, he was one of the few survivors to come back to Thessaloniki, returning to a city whose Jewish identity had been almost entirely erased by the Nazis. And he studied the past there and gave the victims back their names. He wrote an impressive book about his time in Auschwitz entitled “A litre of soup and 60 grams of bread – diary of prisoner no. 109565”.

And, first and foremost, Heinz Kunio has told countless school classes about his experiences and continues to meet young people to this day. It is important to Mr Kunio to pass these experiences on to the younger generation – to call these memories to mind, despite the pain. These encounters with eyewitnesses, their personal memories, are irreplaceable. And yet there are fewer and fewer of these eyewitnesses in our midst today.

This is why this publishing project, which sheds light on many original documents, the overwhelming majority of which are being published for the first time, is so important. This volume is the product of a great deal of work – conducting source research, reaching decisions on selections and editing. The authors are making the voices of eyewitnesses – both victims and perpetrators – heard with these original documents. It is up to the reader to draw their own conclusions. Access to original documents with commentaries by researchers is so important especially in times of increasing radicalisation and the rapid dissemination of so‑called “fake news” and “alternative facts”.

It is important that we engage in scholarly treatment of the Holocaust also from a foreign and European policy perspective. This is not just a question of shedding light on Germany’s chequered history, but above all of remembering the tragic history of Greece, Italy, Albania and the successor states of the former Yugoslavia. Without an awareness of this history, we Germans – despite all our best efforts to promote understanding and reconciliation – will never be able to do justice to these countries and the role that we play there. All of the trips that I have been on in this region have reminded me about this fact.

We cannot undo the past. But we can help ensure that the injustice that was perpetrated is never repeated. This, the darkest chapter in the history of humanity, must never be forgotten. This book project is committed to this aim. Allow me to thank all those who have played an active part in making it a reality.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Reden/2017/170622-StM_R_Buchvorstellung_Verfolgung_und_Ermordung.html?nn=479796

Tenth Summit of the Global Forum on Migration and Development

On 28 June 2017, Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel will open the Tenth Summit of the Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD) at the Federal Foreign Office. The meeting is the highlight of the first of two years of Germany and Morocco’s co‑chairmanship of the GFMD. Over 700 participants are expected to attend.

Launched in 2007 as an initiative of the United Nations Member States, the GFMD is an informal, non‑binding, voluntary and government‑led process at global level in an international framework.

The motto of the summit is “Towards a Global Social Contract on Migration and Development”. The focus will be on a fair balancing of interests between migrants and their countries of origin, transit states and destinations within the framework of regular and orderly migration.

Foreign Minister Gabriel and his Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita will open the three‑day conference, which will be attended by representatives of some 140 countries, international organisations, civil society and the private sector. Other speakers at the opening event will include Gerd Müller, Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development; Louise Arbour, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for International Migration (SRSG); Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR); William Swing, Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM); Guy Ryder, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO); and David Malone, Rector of the United Nations University.

The co‑chairmanship with Morocco underlines Germany’s engagement in the field of migration and sustainable development, as well as the German Government’s interest in working closely with Morocco.

Germany has set the following priorities for the summit:

1. Work on an ambitious Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration to be adopted in 2018, linking global standards on migration governance with recommendations on concrete goals and a review mechanism.

2. A fair balancing of interests between countries of origin and destination and migrants themselves. With its goal of a global social contract, Germany is a fair partner.

3. The contribution made by migration to sustainable economic development in the countries of origin and destination.

4. Implementation of Goal 10.7 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development on facilitating safe, orderly and regular migration.

You will find further information on the Global Forum on Migration and Development at external link, opens in new windowhttp://www.gfmd.org/

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http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170627-Gipfeltreffen_Migration_Entwicklung.html?nn=479796

What Do Students Think about Brexit?

Tenth Summit of the Global Forum on Migration and Development

Launched in 2007 as an initiative of the United Nations Member States, the GFMD is an informal, non‑binding, voluntary and government‑led process at global level in an international framework.

Germany has set the following priorities for the summit:

2. A fair balancing of interests between countries of origin and destination and migrants themselves. With its goal of a global social contract, Germany is a fair partner.

3. The contribution made by migration to sustainable economic development in the countries of origin and destination.

4. Implementation of Goal 10.7 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development on facilitating safe, orderly and regular migration.

You will find further information on the Global Forum on Migration and Development at external link, opens in new windowhttp://www.gfmd.org/

from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgxJlUyfaAA

Highest Paying Degrees in Germany

Most students who want to study abroad and away from their home countries think about going to the United Kingdom (UK) or the Unites States (US). These countries have a reputation for providing the best education, but increasingly this reputation is decreasing.

Recently, studies which aim to find the best place to get a degree actually rank another country as the best one. In a study from Study.eu, which ranked countries according to education, life, cost, and career says that the best country to study in is Germany.

Germany surpassed the UK scores by a long way. It scored 83.2 out of 100, while the UK scores were only 69.8. Germany is being seen as an attractive study abroad country because of several reasons:

Universities offer an increasing number of courses in English

Around 150 universities out of 400 in Germany offer courses and degrees completely in English. This makes Germany the second country to offer the most degrees in English after the Netherlands. The language advantage attracts international students who find it more difficult to learn German.

There are no tuition fees

State universities in Germany are completely free. This is one of the most important factors taking into account the increasing education fees in other countries such as the U.S and the U.K. Recently, some universities want to introduce tuition fees for international students, but they will be quite low in comparison to other study destinations.

Graduate unemployment is low

After students graduate from a university in Germany, finding a job is relatively easy. The education system is strong and provides students with skills that gets them employed immediately. In fact, graduate unemployment is only 2.3%, the lowest on the continent of Europe.

So if you are now convinced that studying in Germany has many benefits, you might be wondering what the top paid jobs in Germany or degrees are. Instead of studying something haphazardly, an increasing number of students want to look at the market and for example, find the high demand jobs in Germany.

Statista, a market research company has conducted a study to find the best jobs in Germany. They took salary data from 60,000 professionals who have full time jobs. This gave a ranking of the 16 highest paid degrees in Germany. The salaries are annual and are shown in the European currency of the Euro.

Highest Paid Degrees in Germany

Here is a visualization of the degrees and their salaries, while below there are also descriptions of what each degree means.

1. Medicine and Dentistry

Doctors and dentists are valuable professionals throughout the entire world. Health is seen as one of the most important factors of having high wellbeing in any country. Because of that, medical occupations are the top paid degrees in Germany.

A doctor or a dentist is expected to make the highest amount of money out of anyone with other degrees. The average annual pay is €79,538.

2. Law

Lawyers are also highly important. Having a good justice system makes a country seem more developed and fair to its people. Whenever we have any legal problems, we are faced with the difficult task of finding a good lawyer.

In Germany, this is not a challenge. Medicine and Law are some of the toughest degrees to get admitted into. The high admittance criteria and the fact that the courses are very challenging, makes them so valuable. Lawyers due to their effort to graduate and their importance in society get paid well too.

The yearly average salary for a lawyer is €74,013.

3. Industrial Engineering

The third highest paying degree is Industrial Engineering. This is a branch of Engineering which works towards making companies and organizations more efficient. It can work with both products and services.

In a factory which produces something it deals with reducing machine time and other resources which are not valuable. In services, it looks to decrease time, money, and employee hours which do not add to the productivity.

Because all companies are looking to become more efficient, this degree pays a staggering €70,288 per year.

Top Universities to Study Industrial Engineering

4. Engineering

The standard degree of Engineering encompasses general knowledge from all branches and aspects of the profession.

Engineering degrees are some of the most difficult due to their scientific nature. Engineers need to be highly accurate as small errors could lead to big consequences. That is why they get compensated well too. The yearly average salary for Engineering degrees is €69,850.

5. Mathematics and Computer Science

The science of mathematics has always been valued. Mathematicians deal with the complexities of all that needs calculations. They come up with models and formulas which solve difficult and challenging problems.

In addition, the advent of technology has made computer scientists highly important too. They discover algorithms and models which make it possible for us to communicate and work with each other only throughout a small screen.

Our dependency on mathematics and computer science has made these degrees well paid. Those who have a diploma in one or the other get an average yearly salary of €68,241.

Top Universities to study Computer Sciences

6. Natural Sciences

Physics, chemistry, and biology are also highly accurate sciences. They assist people in making precise materials, knowing the laws of the natural world, and discovering other organisms. Throughout time these three sciences have made interesting and important findings about the world we live in.

Due to this, those with degrees in either of these natural sciences are compensated in hefty amounts. They get salaries which range around €66,954 per year.

7. Business and Economics

Having the knowledge to manage a company and compile its strategy makes the difference between success and failure. All companies and organizations, whether public or private, need people who know the basics and the intricacies of business and economics.

Since we rely so much on our economy and businesses working well and providing us with employment and income, the people with these degrees are compensated with around €65,404 per year.

8. Architecture

Architects design the buildings and structures we live and work in. They plan our space and the way we use it. Their skill does not lie in only coming up with buildings that look good, but in also having them be strong and not prone to collapsing.

Together with engineers and other professions, architects work to construct spaces that serve our living and working needs. And they get well compensated for it, since the annual average salary for an architect is around €55,822.

Top Universities to study Architecture

9. Psychology

Our mental well being is just as important as our physical health. Whereas doctors and dentists look after our bodies and teeth, psychologists take care of our mind. Increasingly, people deal with problems such as anxiety, depression, or just plain overloading stress.

Psychology and its branches train people with whom we can discuss and find solutions to our mental health issues. They prescribe medication and slowly work through to make us healthier individuals. Their job is demanding and the degree that leads up to it is challenging too. This makes their salaries high too, at approximately €55,204 per year.

10. Earth Science

Earth is the planet that we live in and until now we have not yet found an alternative to it. Because of this, we have always been curious about its composition and the way it works. We are also concerned with how it is evolving and how we should take better care of it.

That is what Earth Scientists study. They go through the details of how the earth is composed, its geology, its oceans, and its weather. Particularly now, climate change and how the weather is affecting us is becoming more and more important.

Earth scientists can give us answers and advice on how to protect our planet and they are well paid for it. Those who hold this degree make around €53,713 each year.

Besides these 10 of the highest paid degrees in Germany, which were more scientific and accurate, there are also other valuable degrees. These are more theoretical or visual and that is why they rank lower than the sciences. However, these degrees in Germany are still seen as earning people high salaries and life fulfillment. They are:

Political and Social Sciences – €52,974
Teaching – €50,000
Philosophy and the Humanities – €47,022
Historical and Cultural Sciences – 46,836
Design – €46,075
Education and Pedagogy – €45,116

Whichever degree you choose, Germany has become a better option to study abroad compared to other more popular countries. It gives good language conditions, lower costs, and higher chances of getting a job in the profession you want.

The post Highest Paying Degrees in Germany appeared first on Study in Germany for Free.

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"A Strong Europe in the World of Today", speech by Federal Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel at the European Council on Foreign Affairs

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished colleagues, dear Mark Leonard,

First of all: Happy Birthday! It is a pleasure to welcome you in Berlin for this event which marks the 10th anniversary of the European Council on Foreign Relations.

10 years ago, the ECFR was founded to facilitate and to deepen the strategic discussion amongst Europeans. I congratulate you most warmly for what you have achieved so far.

Your clear focus on the relevant policy debates in the European capitals is your comparative advantage. The strategic decision to settle in European capitals and not become yet another Brussels Think Tank has been proven right by the course of events. The ECFR gathers, channels and challenges the intellectual diversity and creativity of the European nations. The role of member states has become more important over the last decade – for better or worse. The ECFR may take the praise of having scouted this trend very early on.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

So much for praise, now to the problems. The ten successful years of the ECFR coincide with a sequence of European crises that brought the historic project to the brink of collapse. 15 years ago the idea of “ever closer union” seemed to be the only game in town, a process which culminated in the drafting of a European Constitution. But this trend was not only stopped by national referenda, the whole project crumbled under the onslaught of events. The financial crisis evolved into a European sovereign debt crisis and into an existential crisis for the Euro zone; the challenge of the European security order by Russia, civil war and implosion of statehood on Europe´s borders, resulting in a massive refugee crisis; and the rise of populism and nationalism ultimately leading to the Brexit decision continue to threaten the project from within.

2017, which happens to be the year of your 10th anniversary, could be a turning point. Clearly, we are not out of the woods yet, but I think there is some room for optimism. The elections in Austria and the Netherlands proved that the populists are far from taking Europe by storm. In France, the victory of Emmanuel Macron proved to everyone that people on the continent still believe in the EU as a promise for a better future and as force to shape globalization. This is a signal to all of us: We should seize this European moment!

After years of sluggish growth and sometimes painful reforms, the economic situation in practically all 28 Member states is getting better and better. Growth is coming back to Europe, unemployment is going down, investment is picking up.

All in all, we see a strong momentum: Europe is back again. The main challenge is to turn this momentum into a sustainable, positive dynamic for the European Union. A European Union that protects its citizens and their interests and at the same time is capable to defend the common European interests around the globe.

Let me outline three priorities that could turn the positive momentum into a sustainable dynamic: First, we should strengthen Europe internally, doing more on the social and economic front and invest in the economic success of tomorrow. Second, we should strengthen the impact and reach of European Foreign and Security Policy – in our direct neighborhood and beyond. And third, we should defend and further develop Europe´s role in the international order at a time where geopolitical rivalries, thinking in zero sum games and pure bilateralism experience a dangerous renaissance.

My first point: strengthening Europe from within. The social and political cohesion of Europe, its historic promise of prosperity and protection is at the core of the project. Of course, structural reforms and a strengthened competiveness are important prerequisites of success. But in the last five to ten years, we sometimes underestimated how painful some of these measures had been and still are for the social fabric in the most affected countries. If we alienate people in Southern Europe by firmly insisting on austerity measures, even in a situation where one out of two young adults is unemployed, we will less likely be able to maintain broad support for our common cause.

Therefore, the reform of the Eurozone and the development of its governance structures are the most urgent tasks for realizing more social and economic cohesion and to avoid an ever growing divergence of the European economies. I strongly support a joint Franco-German strategy in this regard. France already put forward some ideas, notably about a budget for the Eurozone and a finance minister. I welcome these ideas, which have, apart from the usual suspects, received a positive echo, including in German business circles.

But we should go further: Germany and France both have to lead in the field of a more social Europe, a “Europe that protects” as Emmanuel Macron would put it. Therefore we strive for minimum wages and basic social security systems in all member countries. Our goal is furthermore that for the same work at one place the same wage has to be guaranteed. In addition, we clearly have to continue to support regions and countries which are struggling with high youth unemployment, through European financial means, through targeted investments into infrastructure and digital capacities, through mobility schemes and by a massive effort in qualification.

My second point: strengthening the impact and reach of European Foreign and Security Policy

The question of European security as re-emerged since Russia´s seizure of Crimea and its interference in Eastern Ukraine, but also with the rise of terrorism and the collapse of states in our neighborhood. The last European Council marked some important progress: the endorsement of the Permanent Structured Cooperation or PESCO is an important step as well as the establishment of the European Defence Fund. Better spending, joint projects and a coordinated development of European defence capabilities will help us to invest more efficiently in security. And the new Military Command and Control Capacity, the European Headquarter for non-executive missions, will speed up our ability to act. Interestingly, while we will certainly miss the British capacities in all matters of security, we reached unity on these decisions remarkably quickly since last summer.

The necessity to act is obvious. We have to tackle the immediate and long term problems of our southern neighborhood. The task is evident to every European citizen due to the refugee crisis. I strongly support a more visible role for the European Union in countries like Libya or in the Sahel region. It is in the European interest not only to fight terrorism by supporting the G5 Sahel, but also by contributing to the development in Niger and Mali. The integrated approach of the European Union, combining civilian with military engagement, is the best way to foster long term stability.

One region that deserves special attention is the Western Balkans - a region that stands like no other for the development of a common foreign and security policy of the European Union. The geopolitical landscape of the Western Balkan region is changing rapidly: social instability and ethnocentric nationalism is threatening the fruits of European engagement and investment of the last 15 years. Organized crime and corruption are destroying the social fabric from within and external actors like Russia, China and Turkey strengthen their footprint in the region.

I am convinced that we Europeans have to deepen our engagement in the Western Balkans. With the so called Berlin Process we work on common projects in infrastructure, energy and investment. We strongly support the idea to do even more, be it in the field of digitalization, in education or in people to people contacts.

My third point concerns Europe’s role in the international order. The European Union with its very special political DNA is a counter model to unilateralism, to authoritarianism and transactionalism. It is the most successful project of supranational cooperation and shared sovereignty in human history, ending centuries of rivalry and violent conflict among its members. Therefore I am convinced that the EU by the virtue of its existence and its success is a major contributor to a rules-based international order, including a system of free and fair international trade, of effective climate protection and a strong partnership between the industrialized and the developing world.

This order is challenged by emerging players, I need not list the examples to this distinguished audience. But it is also less rigorously defended by its former main contributor, to say the least. This makes our task even bigger. It falls upon us to convince the United States, our strong partner in the past, to remain in this business together with us. Some messages from Washington are troubling to our European ears: international politics being described as a Darwinist-like “competition for advantage”. Putting into question free trade by abandoning TTP and harming global cooperation by leaving the Paris Agreement on climate change are wrong, and we have to stay strong and united to counteract the rippling effects that decisions like these have – not only on climate and trade in the narrow sense, but on the world order in general. The EU is close to finalizing a Free Trade Agreement with Japan, and I hope others will follow soon. We fully support the European Commission to forge ahead on this path with full steam. I hope that we will finish a lot of free trade agreements that are in front of us.

Only united will the European voice be heard in the 21st century. Only united will we be strong enough to make a qualitative difference in the political management of globalization. What we lose in terms of demographic and economic weight in the coming decades should be compensated by our joint commitment to make the European project a success, at home and in the international arena.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

the ECFR proved to be wise in setting up offices in European capitals ten years ago. Now you move some major operations to Berlin, strengthening your presence in the German capital. Also thanks to your activities, Berlin is becoming more and more a vibrant hub of intellectual debate on international affairs and security policy.

Thank you for your work, for your commitment and for your engagement for Europe and the European Union. We need your advice and your creativity to keep the momentum this year and the following years ahead and to sustain the positive dynamic that we all feel in and for Europe.

Thank you very much for your attention.

I am looking forward to our discussion.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Reden/2017/170626_ECFR.html?nn=479796

Human Rights Commissioner on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

Bärbel Kofler, Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Aid at the Federal Foreign Office, issued the following statement today (26 June) to mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture:

Zusatzinformationen

Torture is always prohibited under all circumstances. It violates human dignity. Nevertheless, torture – in many different forms – is still taking place throughout the world. As the Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights at the Federal Foreign Office, I am confronted time and again in my daily work with incidents and allegations of torture in many different countries and regions around the globe. I am especially worried by the recurring attempts to use security concerns to justify the targeted abuse of people. Today, on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, as well as on any other day, we must oppose this in no uncertain terms. The ban on torture is absolute, both nationally and internationally.

That is why Germany has ratified the Convention against Torture and its additional protocol and is one of the biggest donors to the UN Fund for Victims of Torture. Every year the Federal Foreign Office supports a range of projects around the world aimed at combating torture. For example, the Federal Foreign Office funds the work of Dr Margarete Osterfeld, Germany’s member of the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture.

Although prevention is vitally important, we also have to deal with the consequences of torture. The effects persist, often for the rest of the victim’s life. Overcoming this suffering is an intensive and often lengthy process. Treatment centres, including those in Germany, offer torture victims safe spaces where they can receive help to come to grips with what they have experienced. Today I would like to express my special thanks and respect to all those working in this field.

Background information:

Torture is illegal under international law and there are no exceptions. The 1984 UN Convention against Torture defines torture as any act by which severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, is intentionally inflicted on a person when such pain or suffering if inflicted by or at the instigation of or with the consent or acquiescence of a public official or other person acting in an official capacity. The definition does not include pain or suffering arising only from, inherent in or incidental to lawful sanctions. It is not limited to physical violence, the deliberate infliction of psychological violence can likewise be a manifestation of torture if it reaches a certain degree of severity. Examples of such torture include sleep deprivation, the threat of force or prolonged periods of isolation.

Germany has ratified the Convention against Torture and its additional protocol and is one of the biggest donors to the UN Fund for Victims of Torture.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170626_MRHH_Internationalen_Tag_Folteropfers.html?nn=479796

Message from Sigmar Gabriel, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, at the end of Ramadan (Eid ul‑Fitr)

Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel issued the following statement today (24 June) at the end of Ramadan (Eid ul‑Fitr):

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Muslim women and men around the world are currently celebrating the end of Ramadan. I wish you all a blessed Eid al‑Fitr – a blessed Festival of the Breaking of the Fast.

People of the Muslim faith have reached the end of a special month – a month of fasting and reflection, as well as social engagement. Ramadan stands for treating one another with respect and for supporting those who are in need of help. It also stands for bringing people together and for engaging in discussion, also with members of different religions.

A few weeks ago, I invited many Muslim clerics and representatives of other religions to the first conference on the Responsibility of Religions for Peace. The meeting showed what great peacemaking potential religions have. This was very encouraging!

May the end of the month of fasting be an occasion for Muslims and people of other faiths to join in the cause of promoting peace and tolerance. I wish you and your families a blessed Eid.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170624_BM_Ramadan.html?nn=479796

Monday, June 26, 2017

Case study: Example case studies: EU citizens' rights in the UK

After the UK leaves the EU, EU citizens’ residence status in the UK will depend on how long they have lived here and whether they arrived before the cut-off date (date to be agreed).

More details about the UK government’s offer to EU citizens: Status of EU citizens in the UK: what you need to know.

‘Andriana’ will have been resident in the UK for 5 years when the UK leaves the EU

Andriana is a Greek national who will have been resident in the UK for 10 years on 1 April 2019.

Andriana will continue to have the right to exercise her free movement rights to live and work in the UK up to the point that the UK leaves the EU. As Andriana has been living continuously in the UK for over 5 years (without an absence of more than 2 years after that 5 years), she also immediately qualifies for settled status, subject to suitability checks.

This means she can apply for settled status under the new UK scheme once it is open. Once she has received her status and document she does not need to do anything further after the UK leaves the EU. Andriana will have successfully secured her immigration status in UK law.

It’s ok if Andriana hasn’t immediately applied for settled status. She can remain in the UK after exit and continue her activities, during the grace period of blanket permission. However, she must apply to the Home Office for permission to stay before this grace period expires if she intends to carry on living in the UK afterwards

‘Christophe’ arrived before the cut-off date but won’t have been resident in the UK for 5 years when we leave the EU

Christophe is a French teacher who arrived before the cut-off date and will have been resident in the UK for 4 years at the point the UK leaves the EU.

After the UK leaves, Christophe will be able to continue to live and work in the UK during the grace period of blanket residence permission without having to make an application. Once Christophe has been resident for 5 years, which will be before the end of the grace period, he will be entitled to apply for settled status which will allow him to settle in the UK permanently.

‘Lukas’ arrived before the cut-off date but won’t have been resident in the UK for 5 years by the end of the grace period

Lukas is an Austrian national who came to work in the UK before the cut-off date. He will have been resident in the UK for 2 years before the cut off date.

After the UK leaves the EU, Lukas will be able to continue to live and work in the UK during the grace period of blanket residence permission without having to apply for any permission. He must apply to the Home Office for temporary residence document if he wishes to continue to live in the UK after the grace period. This will enable him to continue lawfully living and working in the UK until he meets the 5 year threshold.

Once Lukas has been resident for 5 years he will be entitled to apply for settled status which will allow him to settle in the UK permanently.

‘Audra’ and ‘Ignas’ qualify for settled status and are expecting a baby

Audra and Ignas moved to the UK from Lithuania in 2015. They are married and are expecting a baby later in 2017.

After the UK leaves the EU, Audra and Ignas will be able to stay in the UK as now during the grace period without having to apply for permission to do so. Once they have been resident for 5 years, in 2020, they will be entitled to apply for settled status which will allow them to settle in the UK permanently.

When their child is born later this year, their son or daughter will also have the opportunity to stay permanently in the UK. Once they get settled status, Audra and Ignas will need to apply for settled status on their child’s behalf. Or they can instead choose to register their child as a British citizen.

‘Aisha’ arrived after the cut-off date

Aisha is a German national who arrived in the UK after the cut-off date. She is self-employed and would like to settle in the UK. If the cut-off date is pre-exit, Aisha can still exercise her free movement rights to live in the UK until the UK leaves the EU.

However, once the UK leaves the EU, Aisha’s free movement rights will end. Like Christophe, Aisha will not be required to leave the UK when we exit the EU, she will be able to stay during the grace period – but she must apply for permission to stay (‘leave to remain’) here beyond that period. If Aisha successfully applies for permission to stay, she will be granted a temporary residence document.

If Aisha wishes to stay in the UK after her temporary permission expires, she will need to obtain further permission. Her eligibility for further permission will depend on the rules in force at that time. Unlike Christophe, she is not guaranteed to be eligible to apply for permission to stay in the UK permanently.

‘Agnieszka’ is intending to study in a UK university

Agnieszka is a Polish national who has lived in England since February 2017 and is intending to stay here and apply to study at an English university after the UK has left the EU. Prior to arriving in the UK, Agnieszka had lived in Poland for her entire life.

Under existing student finance rules (and assuming she meets relevant eligibility requirements), Agnieszka will be awarded home fee status and will be able to access a fee loan both of which will continue for the duration of her course. Under the relevant eligibility requirements, Agnieszka needs to have lived in the EU for 3 years prior to study to qualify for a tuition fee loan and home fee status.

The UK intends to maintain Agnieszka’s entitlements to student support and home fee status once we leave the EU, in line with persons settled in the UK.

from
https://www.gov.uk/government/case-studies/example-case-studies-eu-citizens-rights-in-the-uk

Policy paper: Safeguarding the position of EU citizens in the UK and UK nationals in the EU

Since the result of the referendum last summer, the UK government has been clear how important it is that we secure, as early as possible, both the rights of EU citizens in the UK and UK nationals in EU Member States.

We are now seeking to provide EU citizens with certainty about their future by publishing this white paper which sets out our offer to them.

Our negotiations with the EU have begun and we expect the EU and its Member states to make the same commitment to British nationals living in Europe.

You can find the latest information about the status of EU citizens, and their families, in the UK as the EU negotiations progress here: Status of EU citizens in the UK: what you need to know

from
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-the-position-of-eu-citizens-in-the-uk-and-uk-nationals-in-the-eu

She betrayed Le Pen for an Iranian refugee

The love story between Béatrice Huret and Moktar is not your usual romantic tale. In fact, the union between the 45-year old French woman, who ...

from
http://www.west-info.eu/she-betrayed-le-pen-for-an-iranian-refugee/

How many immigrants there are in the European Union

In 2015, a total of 4.7 million people immigrated to one of the 28 Member States of the European Union, while at least 2.8 million ...

from
http://www.west-info.eu/how-many-immigrants-there-are-in-the-european-union/

Why Do YOU Love Bristol? -- James and Trinity's story

In 2015, a total of 4.7 million people immigrated to one of the 28 Member States of the European Union, while at least 2.8 million emigrants were reported to have left an EU Member State. Half of the immigrants (2.4aaa

from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65ZU0z4ZX4I

Federal Foreign Office Spokesperson on the statements by the Turkish authority Diyanet

The Federal Foreign Office Spokesperson issued the following statement at the governmental press conference on 23 June:

Zusatzinformationen

In light of current events, I would like to say a few words about the Federal Government’s position on freedom of religion. We were very surprised and, to be honest, quite concerned by some statements, including those of the Presidency of Religious Affairs, Diyanet, a Turkish state authority under the responsibility of the Turkish Prime Minister.

For this reason I want to take this opportunity to reject in no uncertain terms statements which are quite evidently intended to deny people in Germany the right to freely practise their religion and restrict their right to freedom of expression.

I would specifically like to add that how, where, when and in what way people pursue and practise their religion is no concern of the state. On the contrary, according to our understanding, the state certainly has no competence to pass judgement on theological issues, but rather has the obligation to protect freedom of religion to the same extent as freedom of expression and of the media. The Federal Government does so, and is deeply committed to this obligation, without exception.

Freedom of religion in Germany is a valuable asset, a fundamental and constitutional right, a right that is expressly guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights, a right that has the same status in our constitution and our political activities as freedom of expression and of the media.

Several weeks ago we hosted a large conference on the responsibility of religions for peace at the Federal Foreign Office here in Berlin. All the participants, and specifically the representatives of the major monotheistic religions, agreed on the responsibility that the religions and their representatives bear for peace in the world as well as for dialogue and exchange, and on the importance of respect for how others practise their religion.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170623_Diyanet.html?nn=479796

Friday, June 23, 2017

Guidance: HM forces: reservists

Uk Visas and Immigration guidance on when and in what circumstances a member of HM forces reserves will be considered exempt from immigration control under section 8(4) of the Immigration Act 1971.

from
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hm-forces-reservists

Starbucks offers employment to refugees in Europe

The famous American chain of coffee bars, Starbucks, plans to hire 2,500 refugees by 2020, to work in its stores that are populating Europe. This news ...

from
http://www.west-info.eu/starbucks-offers-employment-to-refugees-in-europe/

When government aid stops immigrants look for work

In Scandinavia, the success of one experiment for integration of new arrivals has been confirmed. Between 2015 - 2016, in fact, the number of non-EU residents ...

from
http://www.west-info.eu/when-government-aid-stops-immigrants-look-for-work/

Fantastic voyage of the nanobots

In Scandinavia, the success of one experiment for integration of new arrivals has been confirmed. Between 2015 – 2016, in fact, the number of non-EU residents in Denmark who found work doubled. The merit has been attributed, most of all, to theaaa

from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUD2Hy6WIJg

10 Best Places to Visit in Thailand - Thailand Travel Guide

from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxt5WR_mYbw

Foreign Minister Gabriel on the agreement on a harvest ceasefire in eastern Ukraine

Foreign Minister Gabriel issued the following statement today (22 June) on the agreement on a harvest ceasefire in eastern Ukraine:

Zusatzinformationen

It is good that the conflicting parties agreed yesterday through OSCE mediation on a harvest ceasefire which is to apply all along the contact line from midnight on Saturday. We worked hard for this in the Trilateral Contact Group in Minsk.

Such a ceasefire is not only going to make it possible to bring in the harvest, it is also intended to save lives. Far too many people have lost their lives in recent months along the contact line. This makes it all the more important that the ceasefire agreed a long time ago is now finally respected and that both sides can start with the overdue withdrawal of heavy weapons and the disengagement of troops.

It is however also important that the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission is able to monitor the agreed ceasefire. To do so, the monitors need unhindered and secure access to the entire conflict area. The attacks and the massive hindrances that they have been subjected to in recent days and weeks, above all in areas not under the control of the Government, must halt without dela

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170622_Ernte_Waffenruhe_Ostukraine.html?nn=479796

Foreign Minister Gabriel on the UN Solidarity Summit on Refugees in Uganda

Foreign Minister Gabriel issued the following statement in Berlin today (22 June) on the occasion of the Uganda Solidarity Summit on Refugees, which is taking place in Kampala today and tomorrow:

Zusatzinformationen

“The civil war in South Sudan has forced a large part of the population to flee their homes. Around 1.9 million South Sudanese people have fled to the neighbouring countries of Uganda, the Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Congo and the Central African Republic. Over one million people have sought protection and aid in Uganda.

This makes Uganda the biggest refugee-hosting country in Africa. Uganda is a country whose population already faces great humanitarian, economic and social challenges. It is continuing to take in refugees from neighbouring countries nevertheless. They are being cared for and even integrated in Uganda with the support of international aid organisations. This model refugee policy needs our support. The Secretary-General of the United Nations, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the Ugandan Government have therefore issued an invitation to a Solidarity Summit in Kampala. The objective is to obtain further urgently needed support from the international community.

The situation of the refugees in Uganda is closely bound up with the development of the humanitarian emergency in South Sudan. We are viewing this with great concern and have increased the Federal Government’s humanitarian assistance for South Sudan to around 90 million euros in 2017. We are using this money to support the people suffering in South Sudan and in the affected neighbouring countries, especially Uganda.

Germany will therefore support Uganda’s refugee policy with around 50 million euros, of which 14 million euros have been earmarked for humanitarian assistance and 36 million euros for development cooperation.

In view of the suffering of countless people in South Sudan and the burden that the neighbouring countries are bearing, I urgently call on the Government of South Sudan and all adversaries in the region to end their violent clashes and the serious human rights violations against the civilian population without delay. I also call on the governments in the region to support political processes seeking to achieve a peaceful solution to the conflict in South Sudan.”

Background information:

Uganda is the biggest refugee-hosting country in Africa having now taken in 1,270,000 refugees. Statistics published on the refugee situation around the world (Global Trends 2016), published by UNHCR on 19 June 2017, have found that Uganda is the fourth-largest refugee-hosting country in the world. It has taken in some 1,025,000 refugees from South Sudan since 2013, with the majority of that number arriving after July 2016. Aside from refugees from South Sudan, Uganda is hosting almost 320,000 refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Somalia and other countries.

Uganda’s refugee policy has a strong focus on development and is held up around the world as a model for the integration of refugees into host communities. Refugees in Uganda enjoy freedom of movement and are given land, seed and tools to help them fend for themselves. Thanks to its exemplary policy, Uganda is among the first countries to implement the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF) adopted in 2016 as part of the New York Declaration. Alongside guaranteeing the rights of refugees and ensuring that they receive the humanitarian aid they need, the CRRF sets out approaches to resolving refugee situations in the long term.

Against the backdrop of the dramatic increase in the number of refugees as well as reception capacities that have been exhausted and a general reduction in the availability of land, Uganda’s refugee policy is reaching its limits. The drought in many parts of East Africa is sparking further migration to Uganda – including from Kenya.

The Federal Government is supporting the CRRF’s comprehensive approach in Uganda with development policy measures and humanitarian assistance. Our policy is helping to ensure that the causes of displacement are tackled and that the absorption capacity of countries and regions taking in refugees is strengthened.

Over the past five years, the Federal Government has increased its budget for humanitarian assistance abroad to ten times the former amount. This makes Germany the world’s second-largest bilateral donor of humanitarian aid today. The Federal Foreign Office supported humanitarian aid projects in Africa to the tune of around 1.3 billion euros in 2016. Of these funds, some 307 million euros went to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) – more than ever before.

The Federal Foreign Office’s contribution to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to support South Sudanese refugees and internally displaced persons in South Sudan has been increased from an initial sum of five million to approximately 31 million euros.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170622-UN_Fluechtlingsgipfel_Uganda.html?nn=479796

Refugees received in Europe are not so many

Europe receives only 3.5 million refugees on a total of 65.6 million people displaced worldwide. Equal to 0.68% of the European population and to about ...

from
http://www.west-info.eu/refugees-received-in-europe-are-not-so-many/

Teaching celebrated across the University

Europe receives only 3.5 million refugees on a total of 65.6 million people displaced worldwide. Equal to 0.68% of the European population and to about 5% of all people forced to leave their Motherland because of conflicts, natural disasters, persecutionsaaa

from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y40evUDa8pg

Speech by Michael Roth, Minister of State for Europe and Member of the German Bundestag, during the German-British Parliamentary Dialogue at the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung on 22 June 2017

Ladies and gentlemen,

As we are among friends today, I would like to be very frank and open. After last week’s general elections there is a lot of uncertainty about the political future in the UK and what this means for the Brexit negotiations, which officially started last Monday.

The British decision one year ago came as a shock. It was not only the outcome of the referendum or how the government interpreted it that was somewhat irritating, but also the way this vote came about. We heard and read falsehoods and misleading arguments during the campaign, without any political consequences for those who circulated them. Some of them were even rewarded with a government job.

But from a distance, it also seemed that the entire political class could have taken a clearer stand in favour of the EU. I would have wished for more politicians to point out the many mutual benefits of European cooperation.

In my view, Social Democrats need to be committed Europeans. We are traditionally the driving internationalist and European movement. For me, being a progressive means showing the readiness and willingness to shape globalisation. For the EU is definitely still the best answer to the challenges of globalisation.

Of course, it is one thing to say that not everything is perfect in ‘Brussels’. But it seemed impossible for the advocates of the EU to prevail in this campaign: on the one hand EU labour laws were criticised for being over-protective and bureaucratic, while others labelled the same policies neo-liberal and serving only corporate interests.

I believe some of the protest expressed was directed at issues not decided by EU institutions, but by national governments. I can only encourage everyone to stop playing the blame game on Brussels.

I regret the Brexit vote, as does the entire German Government. But we are where we are and of course we respect the British vote as a democratic decision. And of course we will stay close partners even after Brexit has become reality.

Allow me to say a few words on the ongoing withdrawal negotiations. Where do we stand right now? The UK has sent its letter, the EU27 have adopted political guidelines for the exit talks and given the Commission a mandate. Formal negotiations finally started on Monday. A couple of things are important to me here:

First of all, we want constructive negotiations. We want an orderly exit that avoids legal uncertainty. We want a close future partnership. No one wants to “punish” the UK for leaving the EU. But one thing is clear: the unity of the EU27 is our top priority, also with regard to our future relationship with the UK. The negotiations have to be conducted with one voice of the 27, coherently, by the Commission.

Sequence of negotiations: We have very little time to ensure an orderly exit. The clock has been ticking since the end of March. Difficult questions need to be addressed and agreed upon. Of course, future relations are equally important. But they will take more time than the withdrawal agreement, which needs to be in force in March 2019. It may take several years to negotiate a free trade agreement for instance and have it ratified by the national parliaments of all member states.

And you know that we are planning on agreeing on principles for future relations before the exit as well. Talks can start in autumn 2017 or the beginning of 2018, if we make sufficient progress on the main withdrawal questions.

Citizens first: This is a point where both sides are generally in full agreement. Those who have lived, worked and contributed for a long time on the respective other side have a legitimate expectation to be able to carry on their lives as before. Of course, the political will to safeguard this needs to be incorporated into legal texts that address an awful lot of details. And our governments need to be able to put the new policies into practice.

We want to avoid cherry picking. The benefits of a club do not exist without the corresponding commitments. A common market is made by common rules. Otherwise, you have separate markets. Or an entirely unregulated economy – no safety, consumer or environmental protection or legal standards, but plenty of – in this case – harmful competition.

The financial settlement has become an emotional issue in the press, but it could be conducted as a purely rational exercise. The financial divorce concerns matters the UK has committed to and benefited from during its membership. It is not about imposing a fine on the British taxpayer for leaving. We will find a rational settlement. But of course this does involve large budgets and complex issues. Just think of projects financed by the European Investment Bank over decades and the guarantees given for them by the UK and us. And you will understand there is little appetite in the other member states to say they will pay for the costs of Brexit.

We want to deal very responsibly with the situation in Northern Ireland. I believe the British Government has an obligation to help find creative solutions here so as to avoid any harm to the peace process resulting from Brexit. And the solution can not only consist of doing away with EU customs or trade rules.

The attitude of both sides as they go into these negotiations matters a great deal. It is important to understand that we want constructive negotiations and to stay as close as possible. But the UK faces choices, for instance on leaving the customs union and the single market. These are British decisions.

Please do not blame the EU for the complexity. Some of the Brexiteers seem to believe the EU is just a forum where governments meet and that you can just walk away from. But in the 42 years of your membership, the EU has become a community of law that underpins the daily lives of citizens and companies. Some say undoing this means “un-scrambling scrambled eggs”.

We did not want the UK to leave, and it is only natural that our aim is to keep a close partnership, both economically and politically, even if this partnership remains less desirable than joint EU membership. We need continued cooperation in many fields – for instance on trade, internal security, on foreign policy, defence and research. As the UK is leaving the EU, we need to find an arrangement for all of this.

Some EU programmes are already open to third countries who want to contribute. In others, we will find the right balance. Not everything can be the same as before, as if nothing has happened. Just like other agreements with third partners, our future arrangement should not undermine the internal EU legal framework and provide some common standards for consumer protection.

Finally, I would like to say a few words on our bilateral relations and common challenges in the world. The world is too uncertain for any nation-state to stand on its own. The challenges we are facing are global and consequently need global answers.

Our cooperation in NATO remains unchanged. We should also continue to have a common approach towards Russia and Turkey and to drive forward our successful engagement in the Western Balkans along the lines agreed together in the EU and elsewhere. Iran, the Middle East, Yemen, Qatar and Afghanistan – there are many more issues where we need to work to preserve our bilateral as well as the European and international consensus.

The UK and Germany are frontrunners in shaping and implementing climate policies. We should continue our successful cooperation on this and many other global challenges, even if we need to find a new framework for our cooperation.

And last, but not least: the links between our civil societies have never been stronger than today. This is not only thanks to the more than 100,000 British citizens living in Germany and the nearly 300,000 Germans in the UK.

London and Berlin are cultural magnets. Our countries maintain more than 500 town twinnings and around 2,000 school partnerships, which help to deepen mutual understanding and friendship.

Distinguished colleagues,

We continue to share the same values and interests, the same views on so many global issues. Safeguarding this partnership in times of a readjustment due to Brexit requires particular attention, commitment and investment. But it is an aim that we absolutely share and into which Members of Parliament of our political families should put every effort.

Now I look forward to our discussion!

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Reden/2017/170622-StM_R_DEU_BRIT_Dialogforum.html?nn=479796

Federal Foreign Office on the peace agreement for the Central African Republic

A Federal Foreign Office spokesperson issued the following statement today (21 June) on the peace agreement for the Central African Republic:

Zusatzinformationen

In Rome on Monday, the Government of the Central African Republic and rebel groups reached an agreement on common elements to establish peace through the mediation of the Catholic lay Community of Sant'Egidio. This constitutes a major step after many years of internal conflict and the current rise in the number of armed confrontations. We call upon all parties now to resolutely implement the agreements that have been reached. The fighting must stop. The people of Central Africa urgently need peace and security in order to be able to rebuild their country.

Great respect is due to the persistence and commitment of Sant'Egidio, which made a consensus possible.

Background:

On 19 June 2017, a comprehensive peace agreement including all the armed groups in the country was signed on the premises and through the mediation of the Catholic lay Community of Sant'Egidio in Rome.

The Community of Sant'Egidio is active throughout the world and has approximately 75,000 members in more than 70 countries. Besides Europe, it has a particularly strong presence in Africa. Sant'Egidio's international peace and mediation activities first became known as a result of the successful negotiations on Mozambique from 1990 to 1992, when a 16-year-long civil war was brought to an end through negotiations in Rome. Professor Andrea Riccardi, who founded the community in 1968 while still at school, was awarded the Charlemagne Prize in 2009 on behalf of Sant'Egidio and its work. In addition to its mediation work, Sant'Egidio is engaged in people-oriented development projects, particularly in Africa. In Italy, its country of origin, it is also deeply involved in charitable projects and refugee assistance.

The Federal Foreign Office provides considerable support and funding for international mediation projects run by Sant'Egidio throughout the world.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2017/170621_Zentralafrika.html?nn=479796