Wellington, September 2nd 2014: By ratifying the new Arms Trade Treaty today New Zealand has played an historic role in helping end the irresponsible, lethal trade in weapons and ammunition that has devastated the lives of millions of people, according to campaigners.
News & Media
Oxfam: Gaza humanitarian crisis will repeat unless restrictions are lifted
Israeli and Palestinian leaders must seize the opportunity of the new ceasefire to end the violence once and for all. Lasting peace for all civilians will only be possible if Israel permanently lifts its restrictions on Gaza’s economy and people, Oxfam said in a new report issued today.
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Cease failure: Rethinking seven years of failing policies in Gaza
The most recent escalation of violence in Gaza and southern Israel has come at terrible human cost. More than 1,500 civilians in Gaza, and six in Israel, have been killed. Over 100,000 Palestinians have been left homeless and vital civilian infrastructure worth billions of dollars has been destroyed in Gaza. The recent ceasefire announcement is certainly a welcome one, but is only the first step on a long road toward lasting peace.
Unless long-term solutions are found to ensure economic growth and sustainable development in Gaza, frequent military escalations will only continue, increasing insecurity for Israelis and Palestinians alike. The Israeli government’s implementation of a policy of separation – politically and physically isolating Gaza from the West Bank – has resulted in the fragmentation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) and is a major obstacle to the chances of lasting peace.
The conflict between Palestinians and Israelis requires a long-term political solution that begins with a lasting ceasefire, continues with the end of the blockade of Gaza, and ends with a negotiated peace based on international law.
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Political parties pledge to increase overseas aid
A survey of political parties looking at how much New Zealand should spend on Official Development Assistance (ODA) shows the overwhelming majority of parties are committed to raising the bar according to the Council for International Development (CID).
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Tonga coconut partnership flourishes
Tauranga-based Heilala Vanilla has partnered with Oxfam’s partner the Tonga National Youth Congress (TNYC) to produce Virgin Coconut Oil for the global market. This partnership is strengthening the vitality of Tongan villages and building economic independence for young people.
Kellogg issues climate change wake-up call
Kellogg, the maker of staple Kiwi breakfasts Coco Pops, Cornflakes and Sultana Bran today became the second global food giant to say it will take industry-leading steps to cut pollution across its operations.
[Read more…] about Kellogg issues climate change wake-up call
