Kalimantan's Craft: Harmony of Culture and Nature
International Day of the World's Indigenous People
9 August
This Craft Kalimantan film highlights indigenous weaving
traditions used in the production of high quality art products. The products are the work of artisan groups, made up of 90 per cent women, who live in and around the forests in Kalimantan, Indonesia. These groups continue to struggle in defence of their culture and tradition through the art of weaving crafts.
Produced by: Ghekko Studio
For more information: http://www.un.org/en/events/indigenousday/
Thursday, 11 August 2011
Wednesday, 10 August 2011
IYD 2011 - Message from Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO
Message from Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO
On this International Youth Day 2011, I wish to acknowledge the contribution of young women and men across the world to the fight for human dignity and fundamental freedoms.The “youth quakes” that have struck across the Arab world have shown the ability of young people to drive change. The struggle for democratic participation has shaken regimes seemingly impervious to pressure. These movements have shown the power of aspirations for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Young people are one billion strong in the world. They carry a billion hopes for a better future and a billion ideas to change the world. They embody also one billion lives to nurture and support. Young women and men are growing up at the sharp end of change. The capabilities of every young person must be developed, so that their energy works for innovation, for civic participation, for resolving global challenges. Young people are already changing the world and reinventing culture. They must have the skills and tools to do so in ways that strengthen the ties between cultures and that protect human rights and fundamental freedoms.
In times of change and uncertainty, we must rely on all sources of dynamism to face rising global challenges. Every young woman and man must be given the chance to take part in the decision-making that shapes our societies and that will define their futures.
UNESCO works to leverage education, the sciences, culture, communication and information to empower young people as active stakeholders in the world’s society. Quality education is the starting point for their full and positive engagement. We must provide young people with everything they need to share their ideas and act on them -- to fight unemployment and poverty, to overcome gender inequality and all forms of discrimination, to tackle diseases and marginalization.
This International Youth Day marks the end of the International Year of Youth: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding. On this occasion, I call on all Governments, youth organizations and the international community to reflect on the historic changes underway this year and to consider the next steps we must take together.
This is the goal of the 7th UNESCO Youth Forum, which will be held in Paris from 17 to 20 October 2011. Under the theme of youth driving change, the Youth Forum will provide a platform for young people from all Member states and societies across the world to share experiences, to express views and to forge new ideas together.
Young women and men across the world are already shaping the contours of the present. We must do everything to encourage their development and to protect their dignity and rights. Everyone’s future depends on it.
International Youth Day - August 12
International Youth Day
The United Nations has long recognized that the imagination, ideals and energies of young women and men are vital for the continuing development of the societies in which they live. In 1985 the UN General Assembly observed the International Youth Year: : Participation, Development and Peace. It drew international attention to the important role young people play in the world, and, in particular, their potential contribution to development and the goals of the United Nations Charter.
Every year after that, the International Youth Day has been celebrated to:
1. Enhance awareness of the global situation of youth and increase recognition of the rights and aspirations of youth
2. Promote national youth policies, national youth coordinating mechanisms and national youth programs of action as integral parts of social and economic development, in cooperation with both governmental and non-governmental organizations
3. Strengthen the participation of youth in decision-making processes at all levels in order to increase their impact on national development and international cooperation.
For more information, visit http://www.hrea.org
The Youth of the World
International Youth Day is a day to stand out and be counted as passionate and energetic youth that are creating a better world for all. It’s an opportunity to remind key decision-makers and influential persons of the key role young global citizens play in affecting global change. International Youth Day is a day for the youth of the world to approach and rally support from governments, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, businesses, and other young people to strengthen your ability to tackle poverty together. IYD is a day to take practical action to further encourage the empowerment of youth in their communities.
Some of the issues that the youth of today faces and needs to address are:
• Education
• Employment
• Hunger and Poverty
• Health
• Environment
• Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug use
All these and more are a constant growing concern for the youth of the world and is what NGOs the world over are trying to improve on.
For more information, visit http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca
Taking Part
Celebrating International Youth Day is an opportunity to tackle issues and bring into light the problems our youth faces in today’s world. The world over students and NGOs plan some sort of activity which focuses on various aspects of this crisis which in turn leads to better decision. Some of the ways in which you can celebrate International Youth Day are:
• Team up! It is a great opportunity to rally support and get key actors involved - Governments, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, businesses, and young people - to focus on what has been done to further the cause
• Organize! Hold forums, public discussions and information campaigns in support of young people focusing on youth issues and how they can be addressed.
• Celebrate! Plan and organize performances everywhere to showcase - and celebrate – the fact that youth contribute to the societies in which they live. Convene exchanges and dialogues focusing on the rich and varied skills, interests and aspirations of young people.
• Take action! A major focus of the Day is practical action to further encourage the empowerment and participation of youth in the processes and decisions that affect their lives.
• Media! The media especially has an important role to play in support of the observance of the Day to promote public awareness of youth issues and to run programs that reflect on them.
For more information, visit http://www.un.org
International Youth Day in Pakistan
In a third world country where avenues are available less and less, and inadequate facilities do not nurture or groom the youth of today, many adverse effects on the society are visible. The main concern about the youth population is their inclination towards activities which do not help in building their character. Since the youth has been deprived of opportunities and lack awareness, they tend to shift away from their aims and objectives. In Pakistan however International Youth Day is celebrated but on a rather mute note.
Youth day is an opportunity for governments and others to draw attention toward youth issues worldwide. Concerts, workshops, cultural events and meetings involving national and local government officials and youth organizations would take place around the world.
Other activities include seminars promoting the world's youth, as well as various sporting events, parades and mobile exhibitions that showcase young people's achievements. IYD is aimed to recognize efforts of the world's youth in enhancing global society and promote ways to engage them in becoming more actively involved in making positive contributions to their communities. The UN defines the worlds' youth as the age group between 15 and 24 years old, making up one-sixth of the human population.
The idea for International Youth Day was proposed in 1991 by young people who were gathered in Vienna, Austria, for the first session of the UN's World Youth Forum. The forum recommended that an International Youth Day be declared, especially for fundraising and promotional purposes, to support the United Nations Youth Fund in partnership with youth organizations.
The other activities to be carried out on this special day include tree plantation and an exhibition to recognize youth participation in sustainable development of the country.
For more information, visit http://www.nation.com.pk for more news
Situation in Pakistan
It is a great tragedy that the vast amounts of youth energies have never been put to proper use. They have not been given any participation in any sphere of life. They have never made partners in the development of the country. Young people are experiencing isolation, vulnerability, powerlessness and idleness.
Their disadvantages derive them from lack of access to interrelated dimensions, such as:
• Economic (assets leading to income generation).
• Social (access to information, social capital, free-time activities, cultural expression, educational opportunities, care and mentoring in youth friendly venues).
• Participation in decision making (empowerment, governance).
On this basis, it appears that youth inclusion policies would be more effective if these different dimensions are combined, rather than having fragmented sectoral interventions. Institutional neglect and cultural biases constitute major barriers that prevent youth access to the above-indicated assets.
The youth of Pakistan are caught in a multitude of problems like unemployment, poverty, remorselessness, social taboos, drugs, guns and politics. It is unfortunate that the youth are trapped in a culture marked by guns, violence and drugs. All this has resulted in an unstable economy, a shattered confidence of foreign investors, lawlessness and a break-up of the social fabric.
The costs of neglecting youth can be measured in terms of increasing incidences of crimes, terrorist activities and depletion of human and social capital. There is a loss of economic growth possibilities, which will only increase as this large cohort ages and is without experience in the work force.
For more information, visit http://www.pnys.com
Lack of engagement and lack of connection makes it less likely that young people will contribute and become self-sufficient adults. This is threatening our progress. Therefore in order to ensure a good future in Pakistan, it is absolutely vital that the role of the youth population be enhanced and they should be given more opportunities which will help them to grow as great individuals who support the country rather than hinder its growth.
The United Nations has long recognized that the imagination, ideals and energies of young women and men are vital for the continuing development of the societies in which they live. In 1985 the UN General Assembly observed the International Youth Year: : Participation, Development and Peace. It drew international attention to the important role young people play in the world, and, in particular, their potential contribution to development and the goals of the United Nations Charter.
Every year after that, the International Youth Day has been celebrated to:
1. Enhance awareness of the global situation of youth and increase recognition of the rights and aspirations of youth
2. Promote national youth policies, national youth coordinating mechanisms and national youth programs of action as integral parts of social and economic development, in cooperation with both governmental and non-governmental organizations
3. Strengthen the participation of youth in decision-making processes at all levels in order to increase their impact on national development and international cooperation.
For more information, visit http://www.hrea.org
The Youth of the World
International Youth Day is a day to stand out and be counted as passionate and energetic youth that are creating a better world for all. It’s an opportunity to remind key decision-makers and influential persons of the key role young global citizens play in affecting global change. International Youth Day is a day for the youth of the world to approach and rally support from governments, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, businesses, and other young people to strengthen your ability to tackle poverty together. IYD is a day to take practical action to further encourage the empowerment of youth in their communities.
Some of the issues that the youth of today faces and needs to address are:
• Education
• Employment
• Hunger and Poverty
• Health
• Environment
• Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug use
All these and more are a constant growing concern for the youth of the world and is what NGOs the world over are trying to improve on.
For more information, visit http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca
Taking Part
Celebrating International Youth Day is an opportunity to tackle issues and bring into light the problems our youth faces in today’s world. The world over students and NGOs plan some sort of activity which focuses on various aspects of this crisis which in turn leads to better decision. Some of the ways in which you can celebrate International Youth Day are:
• Team up! It is a great opportunity to rally support and get key actors involved - Governments, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, businesses, and young people - to focus on what has been done to further the cause
• Organize! Hold forums, public discussions and information campaigns in support of young people focusing on youth issues and how they can be addressed.
• Celebrate! Plan and organize performances everywhere to showcase - and celebrate – the fact that youth contribute to the societies in which they live. Convene exchanges and dialogues focusing on the rich and varied skills, interests and aspirations of young people.
• Take action! A major focus of the Day is practical action to further encourage the empowerment and participation of youth in the processes and decisions that affect their lives.
• Media! The media especially has an important role to play in support of the observance of the Day to promote public awareness of youth issues and to run programs that reflect on them.
For more information, visit http://www.un.org
International Youth Day in Pakistan
In a third world country where avenues are available less and less, and inadequate facilities do not nurture or groom the youth of today, many adverse effects on the society are visible. The main concern about the youth population is their inclination towards activities which do not help in building their character. Since the youth has been deprived of opportunities and lack awareness, they tend to shift away from their aims and objectives. In Pakistan however International Youth Day is celebrated but on a rather mute note.
Youth day is an opportunity for governments and others to draw attention toward youth issues worldwide. Concerts, workshops, cultural events and meetings involving national and local government officials and youth organizations would take place around the world.
Other activities include seminars promoting the world's youth, as well as various sporting events, parades and mobile exhibitions that showcase young people's achievements. IYD is aimed to recognize efforts of the world's youth in enhancing global society and promote ways to engage them in becoming more actively involved in making positive contributions to their communities. The UN defines the worlds' youth as the age group between 15 and 24 years old, making up one-sixth of the human population.
The idea for International Youth Day was proposed in 1991 by young people who were gathered in Vienna, Austria, for the first session of the UN's World Youth Forum. The forum recommended that an International Youth Day be declared, especially for fundraising and promotional purposes, to support the United Nations Youth Fund in partnership with youth organizations.
The other activities to be carried out on this special day include tree plantation and an exhibition to recognize youth participation in sustainable development of the country.
For more information, visit http://www.nation.com.pk for more news
Situation in Pakistan
It is a great tragedy that the vast amounts of youth energies have never been put to proper use. They have not been given any participation in any sphere of life. They have never made partners in the development of the country. Young people are experiencing isolation, vulnerability, powerlessness and idleness.
Their disadvantages derive them from lack of access to interrelated dimensions, such as:
• Economic (assets leading to income generation).
• Social (access to information, social capital, free-time activities, cultural expression, educational opportunities, care and mentoring in youth friendly venues).
• Participation in decision making (empowerment, governance).
On this basis, it appears that youth inclusion policies would be more effective if these different dimensions are combined, rather than having fragmented sectoral interventions. Institutional neglect and cultural biases constitute major barriers that prevent youth access to the above-indicated assets.
The youth of Pakistan are caught in a multitude of problems like unemployment, poverty, remorselessness, social taboos, drugs, guns and politics. It is unfortunate that the youth are trapped in a culture marked by guns, violence and drugs. All this has resulted in an unstable economy, a shattered confidence of foreign investors, lawlessness and a break-up of the social fabric.
The costs of neglecting youth can be measured in terms of increasing incidences of crimes, terrorist activities and depletion of human and social capital. There is a loss of economic growth possibilities, which will only increase as this large cohort ages and is without experience in the work force.
For more information, visit http://www.pnys.com
Lack of engagement and lack of connection makes it less likely that young people will contribute and become self-sufficient adults. This is threatening our progress. Therefore in order to ensure a good future in Pakistan, it is absolutely vital that the role of the youth population be enhanced and they should be given more opportunities which will help them to grow as great individuals who support the country rather than hinder its growth.
Saturday, 6 August 2011
World Hepatitis Day 2011 - Pan American Health Organization - Organización Panamericana de la Salud
World Hepatitis Day 2011 - Pan American Health Organization - Organización Panamericana de la Salud
In 2010 the 63rd World Health Assembly (WHA) of WHO, called for a comprehensive response to viral hepatitis
In 2010 the 63rd World Health Assembly (WHA) of WHO, called for a comprehensive response to viral hepatitis
Wednesday, 3 August 2011
International Day of Friendship - 30 July
Secretary-General’s Message for 2011
The idea of friendship permeates the work and ideals of the United Nations. The Charter proclaims that one of the purposes of the Organization is “to develop friendly relations among nations”. These same words appear in the preamble to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. UNESCO’s Constitution speaks of the need for peace based not just on the “political and economic arrangements of governments”, but on the “intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind”. And the UN Alliance of Civilizations initiative aims to improve cooperation and understanding among nations and peoples across cultures and religions, including to counter the forces that fuel extremism.
Friendship; harmony; tolerance; mutual respect and mutual concern: these concepts are part of the Organization’s very fibre. They inform our activities, from peacekeeping and defending human rights to our collective efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals. And they are now the focus of the International Day of Friendship, a new observance established by the General Assembly in a resolution that highlights the potential of friendship to “build bridges” and “inspire peace efforts”.
Individual friendships bring us face to face with diversity and different points of view. They bring us joy and support, notwithstanding the tests that can encumber even the best of relationships. The same pillars that support sturdy personal friendships – trust, respect, mutually beneficial decision-making – also have an important place in the community of nations.
United States President Woodrow Wilson once said, “Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together.” On this first International Day of Friendship, let us pledge to work together to strengthen that cement and build a peaceful, more prosperous world so old friendships can flourish and new ones can be made.
International Day of Friendship - 30 July
The idea of friendship permeates the work and ideals of the United Nations. The Charter proclaims that one of the purposes of the Organization is “to develop friendly relations among nations”. These same words appear in the preamble to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. UNESCO’s Constitution speaks of the need for peace based not just on the “political and economic arrangements of governments”, but on the “intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind”. And the UN Alliance of Civilizations initiative aims to improve cooperation and understanding among nations and peoples across cultures and religions, including to counter the forces that fuel extremism.
Friendship; harmony; tolerance; mutual respect and mutual concern: these concepts are part of the Organization’s very fibre. They inform our activities, from peacekeeping and defending human rights to our collective efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals. And they are now the focus of the International Day of Friendship, a new observance established by the General Assembly in a resolution that highlights the potential of friendship to “build bridges” and “inspire peace efforts”.
Individual friendships bring us face to face with diversity and different points of view. They bring us joy and support, notwithstanding the tests that can encumber even the best of relationships. The same pillars that support sturdy personal friendships – trust, respect, mutually beneficial decision-making – also have an important place in the community of nations.
United States President Woodrow Wilson once said, “Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together.” On this first International Day of Friendship, let us pledge to work together to strengthen that cement and build a peaceful, more prosperous world so old friendships can flourish and new ones can be made.
International Day of Friendship - 30 July
Documents
- UN General Assembly designates 30 July as the International Day of Friendship (2011)
- General Assembly resolution on a Culture of Peace (1998)
- Proclamation of the year 2000 as the International Year for the Culture of Peace (1998)
- Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace (1999)
- General Assembly declares 21 September as the International Day of Peace (2001)
- International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-violence for the Children of the World, 2001-2010
- Resolution adopted by the General Assembly in 1998 (A/RES/53/25)
- Resolution adopted by the General Assembly in 2001 (A/RES/55/47)
- Report of the Secretary-General (September 2000)(A/55/377)
- Report of the Secretary-General (September 2001) (A/56/349)
- Note by the Secretary-General (August 2009)(A/64/312)
- Convention on the Rights of the Child
- Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination
Based on Religion or Belief
Resources
Friday, 22 July 2011
US Senate passes resolution suporting 2012 UN International Year of Co-operatives
NCBA Applauds Passage of Senate Resolution for International Year of Cooperatives
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Andrea Cumpston
202-383-5447
acumpston “at” ncba.coop
NCBA Applauds Passage of Senate Resolution for International Year of Cooperatives
“Cooperative enterprise creates jobs and strengthens communities,” says NCBA CEO Hazen.
Washington, D.C. —July 22, 2011 — The National Cooperative Business Association applauds the unanimous passage of Senate Resolution 87, which designates 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives. The bi-partisan Resolution was introduced by Tim Johnson (D-SD) and Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) and 29 additional co-sponsors. It recognizes the vital role cooperatives play in the economic and social well-being of the United States; urges the establishment of a National Committee for the 2012 International Year of Cooperatives to be comprised of representatives from Federal agencies, all cooperative sectors and key stakeholders; and encourages highlighting the positive impact of cooperatives and developing new programs for domestic and international cooperative development.
NCBA President and CEO Paul Hazen said, “Cooperative enterprise knows no party. The unanimous support and significant bi-partisan sponsorship demonstrates that clearly. Co-ops operate in every state and congressional district, bringing jobs, strengthening the economy and anchoring local communities. Cooperative enterprise builds a better world here and around the world by fostering democracy and providing social and economic development opportunities. I thank all of the NCBA members who wrote to their Senators as well as the national organizations that worked with NCBA in support of the Resolution.”
The United Nations has designated 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives in order to recognize the contribution cooperatives make to social and economic development. The theme of IYC—“Cooperative Enterprise Builds a Better World”—reflects the contribution of cooperatives to the communities they serve.
“Cooperative enterprise has a long and strong history in this country, beginning when Ben Franklin organized the Philadelphia Contributionship, a mutual insurance company still in operation today,” Hazen said. “It’s the best business model in the world because it is guided by a set of principles and values, innovates to meet member needs and puts people first. Americans have formed cooperatives to provide for themselves services that no investor-owned company would offer, such as bringing electricity and telecommunications services to rural areas. Food cooperatives were some of the first businesses to offer organic foods—because their members asked for it,” he continued.
Several organizations that serve cooperatives in the United States worked with NCBA in support of this Resolution, including American Farm Bureau Federation, Credit Union National Association,
Farm Credit Council, National Association of Federal Credit Unions, National Association of Housing Cooperatives, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives , National Cooperative Grocers Association, The National Farmers Union, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, National Telecommunications Cooperative Association, North American Students of Cooperation, South Dakota Association of Cooperatives, Parent Cooperative PreSchools International and US Federation of Worker Cooperatives. In addition, members of NCBA wrote to their Senators in support of the Resolution.
A cooperative is a member-owned and controlled business that operates for the benefit of its members. More than 29,000 cooperatives operate in every sector of the economy and in every congressional district; Americans hold over 350 million co-op memberships. US cooperatives generate 2 million jobs and make a substantial contribution to the economy with annual sales of $652 billion and possessing assets of $3 trillion.
Senate Resolution 87 had 31 co-sponsors, which are listed below (by state and party affiliation):
Democrats
1. AR-Pryor
2. CA-Boxer
3. CA-Feinstein
4. CO-Bennet
5. MI-Stabenow
6. MN-Franken
7. MN-Klobuchar
8. MO-McCaskill
9. MT-Tester
10. MT-Baucus
11. ND-Conrad
12. NE-Nelson
13. NM-Udall
14. NY-Schumer
15. OH-Brown
16. SD-Johnson
17. WA-Murray
18. WA-Cantwell
19. WI-Kohl
Republicans
1. GA-Chambliss
2. IA-Grassley
3. IN-Lugar
4. KS-Roberts
5. KS-Moran
6. MO-Blunt
7. MS-Cochran
8. MS-Wicker
9. ME-Collins
10. NE-Johanns
11. SD-Thune
12. WY-Enzi
Several co-sponsors of Senate Resolution 87 provided comments on cooperatives, which are provided below:
Saxby Chambliss (R-GA): “Cooperatives play a crucial role in communities across Georgia and throughout the United States. In some areas they are the only providers of basic essentials and should be commended for their tireless work. Designating 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives will serve to highlight the significant contributions cooperatives make to our economy and society.”
Thad Cochran (R-MS): “This resolution highlights the usefulness of cooperative business models in creating opportunities for groups of people, especially those living in rural areas. Cooperatives give groups that might otherwise be left at a disadvantage a chance to be more competitive in marketing goods or securing basic services,” Cochran said. “I’m proud of the accomplishments of cooperatives in Mississippi and elsewhere. I look forward to cooperatives continuing to expand and prosper in an increasingly global marketplace.”
Michael B. Enzi (R-WY): “All across Wyoming, cooperatives provide local markets for Wyoming goods and secure a better future for farmers and ranchers by giving them an opportunity to take ownership in a business that buys and sells their goods,” said Senator Mike Enzi. “Co-ops contribute to the American economy and to the lives of those they employ.”
Mike Johanns (R-NE): "Cooperatives play a unique and valuable role for our farmers, ranchers and business owners," Johanns said. "As our economy grows more complex, cooperatives help to ensure rural America remains prosperous and competitive in the 21st century."
Tim Johnson (D-SD): “At a time of great partisan gridlock, I am glad the Senate could come together to adopt the resolution I introduced to support cooperatives,” Johnson said. “As a member of the Congressional Farmer Cooperative Caucus, I have consistently supported cooperative businesses because I understand how important they are to South Dakota’s economy,” said Johnson.
Herb Kohl (D-WI): “Wisconsin is home to more than 640 cooperatives that operate in all sectors of the economy. These member owned and operated cooperatives play a critical role in building local wealth, creating jobs and improving competition in the marketplace. The University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives estimates that cooperatives are responsible for $7 billion in gross sales and employ 23,000 people in our state,” Kohl said.
Dick Lugar (R-IN): “I am pleased to support SRes. 87 and all of the cooperatives in Indiana,” said Senator Dick Lugar. “The economic impact of cooperatives throughout Indiana is important to our economy. These unique ventures offer thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in wages and revenue for our state. I appreciate all their work throughout Indiana.”
Ben Nelson (D-NE): “I am proud to be an original sponsor of Resolution 87, designating 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives because cooperatives are a major economic engine in the United States and Nebraska,” Nelson said. “Nebraska cooperatives enable our farmers to strengthen their marketing and processing opportunities enhancing their crop and livestock production. Nebraska agriculture and marketing cooperatives invested more than $78 million in 2009 alone in new facilities and equipment. They employ thousands of Nebraskans, and pay millions in both dividends and taxes, helping keep Nebraska’s economy robust and thriving.”
Mark Pryor (D-AR): “Cooperatives are a vital resource in Arkansas, bringing economic development and services to many of our rural communities,” Pryor said. “This resolution will ensure that we continue to recognize the positive contributions co-ops make to our local and global economies.”
Pat Roberts (R-KS): “Cooperatives have a long history in Kansas, starting even before former Kansas Senator Arthur Capper helped pass the Capper-Volstead Act in Congress in 1922, giving individuals producing agriculture based products certain exemptions from antitrust laws,” said Roberts. “Today cooperatives continue to play an important role in our economy and in the lives of Kansans, from farmer’s local cooperative elevators to electric cooperatives. I’m very pleased to support 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives.”
Roger Wicker (R-MS): “Cooperatives help many of Mississippi’s rural communities immensely, and today’s resolution highlights the good work they do,” said Wicker. “The broad support this resolution received is a testament to the benefit of co-ops across the country.”
ABOUT NCBA
Headquartered in Washington, DC the National Cooperative Business Association creates cooperative connections across all sectors of the nation's more than 29,000 cooperative businesses, including agriculture, food distribution and retailing, childcare, credit unions, housing, healthcare, purchasing, worker, energy, and telecommunications cooperatives. In addition, NCBA's CLUSA International Program has helped develop cooperatives and other sustainable businesses in over 50 countries since 1953. CLUSA currently runs 23 projects in 11 countries. To learn more about NCBA, please visit www.ncba.coop.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Andrea Cumpston
202-383-5447
acumpston “at” ncba.coop
NCBA Applauds Passage of Senate Resolution for International Year of Cooperatives
“Cooperative enterprise creates jobs and strengthens communities,” says NCBA CEO Hazen.
Washington, D.C. —July 22, 2011 — The National Cooperative Business Association applauds the unanimous passage of Senate Resolution 87, which designates 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives. The bi-partisan Resolution was introduced by Tim Johnson (D-SD) and Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) and 29 additional co-sponsors. It recognizes the vital role cooperatives play in the economic and social well-being of the United States; urges the establishment of a National Committee for the 2012 International Year of Cooperatives to be comprised of representatives from Federal agencies, all cooperative sectors and key stakeholders; and encourages highlighting the positive impact of cooperatives and developing new programs for domestic and international cooperative development.
NCBA President and CEO Paul Hazen said, “Cooperative enterprise knows no party. The unanimous support and significant bi-partisan sponsorship demonstrates that clearly. Co-ops operate in every state and congressional district, bringing jobs, strengthening the economy and anchoring local communities. Cooperative enterprise builds a better world here and around the world by fostering democracy and providing social and economic development opportunities. I thank all of the NCBA members who wrote to their Senators as well as the national organizations that worked with NCBA in support of the Resolution.”
The United Nations has designated 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives in order to recognize the contribution cooperatives make to social and economic development. The theme of IYC—“Cooperative Enterprise Builds a Better World”—reflects the contribution of cooperatives to the communities they serve.
“Cooperative enterprise has a long and strong history in this country, beginning when Ben Franklin organized the Philadelphia Contributionship, a mutual insurance company still in operation today,” Hazen said. “It’s the best business model in the world because it is guided by a set of principles and values, innovates to meet member needs and puts people first. Americans have formed cooperatives to provide for themselves services that no investor-owned company would offer, such as bringing electricity and telecommunications services to rural areas. Food cooperatives were some of the first businesses to offer organic foods—because their members asked for it,” he continued.
Several organizations that serve cooperatives in the United States worked with NCBA in support of this Resolution, including American Farm Bureau Federation, Credit Union National Association,
Farm Credit Council, National Association of Federal Credit Unions, National Association of Housing Cooperatives, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives , National Cooperative Grocers Association, The National Farmers Union, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, National Telecommunications Cooperative Association, North American Students of Cooperation, South Dakota Association of Cooperatives, Parent Cooperative PreSchools International and US Federation of Worker Cooperatives. In addition, members of NCBA wrote to their Senators in support of the Resolution.
A cooperative is a member-owned and controlled business that operates for the benefit of its members. More than 29,000 cooperatives operate in every sector of the economy and in every congressional district; Americans hold over 350 million co-op memberships. US cooperatives generate 2 million jobs and make a substantial contribution to the economy with annual sales of $652 billion and possessing assets of $3 trillion.
Senate Resolution 87 had 31 co-sponsors, which are listed below (by state and party affiliation):
Democrats
1. AR-Pryor
2. CA-Boxer
3. CA-Feinstein
4. CO-Bennet
5. MI-Stabenow
6. MN-Franken
7. MN-Klobuchar
8. MO-McCaskill
9. MT-Tester
10. MT-Baucus
11. ND-Conrad
12. NE-Nelson
13. NM-Udall
14. NY-Schumer
15. OH-Brown
16. SD-Johnson
17. WA-Murray
18. WA-Cantwell
19. WI-Kohl
Republicans
1. GA-Chambliss
2. IA-Grassley
3. IN-Lugar
4. KS-Roberts
5. KS-Moran
6. MO-Blunt
7. MS-Cochran
8. MS-Wicker
9. ME-Collins
10. NE-Johanns
11. SD-Thune
12. WY-Enzi
Several co-sponsors of Senate Resolution 87 provided comments on cooperatives, which are provided below:
Saxby Chambliss (R-GA): “Cooperatives play a crucial role in communities across Georgia and throughout the United States. In some areas they are the only providers of basic essentials and should be commended for their tireless work. Designating 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives will serve to highlight the significant contributions cooperatives make to our economy and society.”
Thad Cochran (R-MS): “This resolution highlights the usefulness of cooperative business models in creating opportunities for groups of people, especially those living in rural areas. Cooperatives give groups that might otherwise be left at a disadvantage a chance to be more competitive in marketing goods or securing basic services,” Cochran said. “I’m proud of the accomplishments of cooperatives in Mississippi and elsewhere. I look forward to cooperatives continuing to expand and prosper in an increasingly global marketplace.”
Michael B. Enzi (R-WY): “All across Wyoming, cooperatives provide local markets for Wyoming goods and secure a better future for farmers and ranchers by giving them an opportunity to take ownership in a business that buys and sells their goods,” said Senator Mike Enzi. “Co-ops contribute to the American economy and to the lives of those they employ.”
Mike Johanns (R-NE): "Cooperatives play a unique and valuable role for our farmers, ranchers and business owners," Johanns said. "As our economy grows more complex, cooperatives help to ensure rural America remains prosperous and competitive in the 21st century."
Tim Johnson (D-SD): “At a time of great partisan gridlock, I am glad the Senate could come together to adopt the resolution I introduced to support cooperatives,” Johnson said. “As a member of the Congressional Farmer Cooperative Caucus, I have consistently supported cooperative businesses because I understand how important they are to South Dakota’s economy,” said Johnson.
Herb Kohl (D-WI): “Wisconsin is home to more than 640 cooperatives that operate in all sectors of the economy. These member owned and operated cooperatives play a critical role in building local wealth, creating jobs and improving competition in the marketplace. The University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives estimates that cooperatives are responsible for $7 billion in gross sales and employ 23,000 people in our state,” Kohl said.
Dick Lugar (R-IN): “I am pleased to support SRes. 87 and all of the cooperatives in Indiana,” said Senator Dick Lugar. “The economic impact of cooperatives throughout Indiana is important to our economy. These unique ventures offer thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in wages and revenue for our state. I appreciate all their work throughout Indiana.”
Ben Nelson (D-NE): “I am proud to be an original sponsor of Resolution 87, designating 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives because cooperatives are a major economic engine in the United States and Nebraska,” Nelson said. “Nebraska cooperatives enable our farmers to strengthen their marketing and processing opportunities enhancing their crop and livestock production. Nebraska agriculture and marketing cooperatives invested more than $78 million in 2009 alone in new facilities and equipment. They employ thousands of Nebraskans, and pay millions in both dividends and taxes, helping keep Nebraska’s economy robust and thriving.”
Mark Pryor (D-AR): “Cooperatives are a vital resource in Arkansas, bringing economic development and services to many of our rural communities,” Pryor said. “This resolution will ensure that we continue to recognize the positive contributions co-ops make to our local and global economies.”
Pat Roberts (R-KS): “Cooperatives have a long history in Kansas, starting even before former Kansas Senator Arthur Capper helped pass the Capper-Volstead Act in Congress in 1922, giving individuals producing agriculture based products certain exemptions from antitrust laws,” said Roberts. “Today cooperatives continue to play an important role in our economy and in the lives of Kansans, from farmer’s local cooperative elevators to electric cooperatives. I’m very pleased to support 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives.”
Roger Wicker (R-MS): “Cooperatives help many of Mississippi’s rural communities immensely, and today’s resolution highlights the good work they do,” said Wicker. “The broad support this resolution received is a testament to the benefit of co-ops across the country.”
ABOUT NCBA
Headquartered in Washington, DC the National Cooperative Business Association creates cooperative connections across all sectors of the nation's more than 29,000 cooperative businesses, including agriculture, food distribution and retailing, childcare, credit unions, housing, healthcare, purchasing, worker, energy, and telecommunications cooperatives. In addition, NCBA's CLUSA International Program has helped develop cooperatives and other sustainable businesses in over 50 countries since 1953. CLUSA currently runs 23 projects in 11 countries. To learn more about NCBA, please visit www.ncba.coop.
Thursday, 21 July 2011
Angelina Jolie on the UNHCR Emergency Response Team
Emergency Response Team Delivering life-saving emergency relief for refugees, wherever and whenever disaster strikes
UNHCR is on the ground saving lives within 72 hours in a crisis. Please help us be there every time. Join the team now!
Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie's message: When disaster strikes, the UN Refugee Agency is there, on the ground, saving lives within 72 hours.
UNHCR is on the ground saving lives within 72 hours in a crisis. Please help us be there every time. Join the team now!
Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie's message: When disaster strikes, the UN Refugee Agency is there, on the ground, saving lives within 72 hours.
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