The ADB's annual meeting is coming up in a month and a half, 3-6 of May.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBSCRIPTION TO THE OFFICIAL EVENT IS *MARCH 15TH.*
We are working to coordinate logistics and programming, to maximize our collective advocacy impact. Please read the following information and kindly reply to questions we put forth together with the information about people coming to the event by next Wed *March 19st *the latest.
The most crucial information we need immediately is where participating groups are in their registration process for the official conference. If you plan to attend or you plan to invite people partners from the region and haven't secured an invitation to register, this needs to be done within the next week. If you need help please let us know.
The next urgency will be receiving visas, for our colleagues coming in from around the region. Again, we can assist in this process with a letter of invitation from partner groups, but we need an indication from you.
Please fill out and return our logistics questionnaire at your earliest convenience, for improved coordination.
As always, please communicate with us about your plans and how we can assist.
SECTIONS: 1. Advocacy Opportunities / Program 2. Logistics Update 3. Questionnaire 4. Calendar 5. Upcoming Call Schedule
*1. ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES / PROGRAM*
Core messaging around this meeting is still being discussed. This will continue to be sharpened in the coming weeks, prior to the event. The message has to come from the regional groups and try to find common themes with Spanish/ European groups. We also need to think of a rather simple media message/ hook.
*A) ADB Spaces:* Official events and unofficial events. We as usual will have a space within the premises of the annual meeting and we will also look for alternative events outside to have our own events. However during the annual meeting our press conferences should probably take place inside the meetings premises to maximize the presence of the press.
Meetings with the ADB officials: (YTD yet to be determined).
*B) Civil Society Spaces:* Outside of the official program, there will be YTD events organized by different groups. The EU coordinator is working on finding spaces for our events.
Ideas: workshops, panel discussion or debate between civil society and ADB officials on any number of topics, workshops, press conferences, mirror mobilization in dif.countries, etc.
*C) Media:* We need to form our media team and have an experienced point person in Europe / Asia.
Ideas for materials: Should we plan on producing a "daily civil society magazine? For this, we need your participation, even if you aren't going to be at the conference, contributions in the form of relevant articles would be appreciated. We will be in touch soon to solicit short articles and case studies from you to highlight our explicit concerns about the ADB and how they are operating in the region.
*2. ADB AGM LOGISTIC UPDATE*
*Registration:* If you are not registered, but would like to be, we need to know as soon as possible! The deadline to request accreditation is March 15th but it usually takes more than one step. If you need help please let us know.
*Visas:* Once you are registered and are requesting a visa, we can assist with letters of support for the Spanish. Embassy in your country. In some cases, people are asking for letters directly from the ADB, though the later it gets, the less feasible it will be to get those. Europe based NGO allies could also send such letters.
*Arrival:* The dates of the actual ADB meeting are Saturday May 3rd through Tuesday May 6th. However people *should arrive a day or two before to join the events of May 1st, International Labour day and for a strategy meeting on Friday May 2nd and a welcoming party, the Spanish way on the evening of the 2nd.*
*Housing:* The Forty-First Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank will be held from 3 to 6 May 2008 at the Institución Ferial de Madrid (IFEMA) <http://www.ifema.es/convenciones/default_i.html>in Madrid, Spain. Ideally, the NGO representatives should stay as close together as possible, which will facilitate activity planning and coordination. It is very likely that we will be staying in a hotel in Barajas, the same town than the airport is at. Its only 2 metro stops away from the ADB venue.
The name of the Hotel is IBIS Hotel, in Avenida General, 49, 28042 Madrid Phone number is (34) 91 301 09 99 and Fax (34) 305 73 50. The person we are talking to is Dominic Simon.
*Transportation:* The best way to get to the hotel is to take the metro, the stop is Barajas Metro Station which is 8 min.walk to the hotel. Alternatively if you send us your flight information we can arrange a shuttle to pick you up for 7 Euros per person. The cheapest way to get into town and to the ADB's venue is to take the metro which will cost you around 3 Euros. Buying a 10 trip pass upon arrival is probably your best bet. Keep in mind you need a 1 E supplement to get to and from the airport.
*Questions:* If you have further logistics questions, please direct them toward Paulina Novo, EU coordinator for the Forum { pn...@forum-adb.org } or Hemantha Withanage heman...@forum-adb.org
*3. QUESTIONNAIRE FOR PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS*
Who from your organization is planning to come? (Please include organization full name, title, cell phone number, and e-mail address and passport number and country that issues it)
What dates will they be in Spain? Date of arrival and date of departure
Do you/ they need accommodation? Do you/ they have any dietary, medical special needs?
What are you planning or would like to see regarding outside civil society programs or events?
Which project/policy advocacy you want to bring to the Madrid AGM? Whom you are planning to meet?
What short written materials you want to contribute for the NGO publications? These could be overall thematic critiques or specific problematic case studies.
Do you have someone who can participate on the Media Team? Are there any of your representatives you would like to serve as a CSO spokesperson?
Note: Those who are planning to attend should write to heman...@forum-adb.org or pn...@forum-adb.org on or before March , 2008
*4) CALENDAR* Note: this is preliminary and will be updated in the coming weeks, especially as civil society groups organize their events. Even the calendar of official events is still being set , we will need your feed back to know what events we want to organize.
For the full list of official events, please see: http://www.adb.org/AnnualMeeting/2008/program-events.asp
DAY UNOFFICIAL OFFICIAL Thursday May 1st Arrival of NGOs, participate on May 1st Spanish events (May be even a day before? We need to discuss) Participant registration Friday May 2nd Morning: Press briefing breakfast (YTD) Labour standards panel (?) Participant registration Friday May 2nd Daytime: NGOs arrive Evening: Spanish Happy hour / dinner- Don't miss it!
Friday, May 3rd (Day 1) Press conference Energy panel (?)- Greenpeace, Setem, others
Saturday, May 4th (Day 2) 4:30 Safeguard panel (?) 4:30 "Institutional Investors' Roundtable: Current Market Turmoil". Sunday, May 5th (Day 3) 4:30 Safeguard panel (?) 14:30 on "Economic Integration and Financial Market Stability Monday, May 6th (Day 4) -do-
Tuesday, May 7th (day 5) Morning: Closure of the events Afternoon: departure
* * *Other ideas on the table:*
- ADB members in Q&A with relevant ADB staff on audit/anticorruption, information disclosure, or the accountability mechanism - Energy round table: biofuels, extractives, hydro (Greenpeace, Setem, FoE (?), others) - Mirror events/ international day of action in Asia, demonstration at ADB venues in the region - Linking events to Alianza Continental events in Lima (Mid May) ; counter forum of Water in Zaragoza (April); - Invite people from Bank of the South/ Venezuela - Street Theater - Concert of famous leftist group/ singer in solidarity - Join the International Labour Day events (1st of May)
* * *5) CONFERENCE CALL SCHEDULED FOR March 18 or 19th. Please send your preference by Monday 17th.*
General Call: Point person: Paulina Novo, NGO Forum on ADB pn...@forum-adb.org
Media Working Group:. Point person: Romil Hernandez, ro...@forum-adb.org
--
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme 2009
Indigenous Fellowship Programme
The Indigenous Fellowship Programme (IFP) was launched by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in the context of the first International Decade of the World's Indigenous Peoples (1995/2004).
The aim of the programme is to give indigenous peoples the opportunity to gain knowledge on the UN system and mechanisms dealing with human rights in general and indigenous issues in particular so they can assist their organizations and communities in protecting and promoting the rights of their people. In its first decade, more than 100 indigenous men and women from 46 countries undertook the programme. They provided human rights training to many more in their communities.
The IFP is accessible in four different languages: English, French, Spanish and Russian. The programme -in its four linguistic versions- is held annually. Each language version has developed slightly differently and generally runs from 2 to 4 months. The selected candidates are entitled to a return flight ticket, living expenses and health insurance.
Who can apply?
1. The candidate must be indigenous (non-indigenous persons will not be taken into consideration, even if they have close links with indigenous communities and/or organizations).
2. Age should not be a limitation to participation in the programme, although preference should be given to candidates in the age-bracket 25-35 years.
3. Formal education should not be a limitation to participation in the IFP given the socio-economic barriers confronted by many indigenous peoples that limit access to formal educational institutions.
4. Candidates should agree to train other indigenous persons after the return to their respective communities/organizations.
5. The candidate should be proposed and his/her candidacy supported by his/her indigenous organization and/or community. It is desirable that the sponsoring organization has a firm constituency or membership and that it is representative.
6. The candidate should have a good working knowledge of the language, in which the programme is imparted.
Selection process
The selection of fellows reflects a gender and a regional balance. The general human rights situation in the respective regions/countries is also taken into consideration.
A pre-selection of 15 (first five preferences and 10 alternates) candidates is made by previous indigenous fellows. The final selection of successful candidates is undertaken by an advisory group composed of indigenous persons.
In view of the large number of applications, we regret to inform that only successful candidates will be contacted.
How to apply?
Fellowship applications will only be taken into consideration if they are fully completed. Both parts I and II must be signed and faxed or sent by regular post at the following address:
Indigenous Peoples and Minorities UnitOffice of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human RightsUNOG-OHCHRCH-1211 Geneva 10SwitzerlandTelefax number: (+41 22) 928 90 66
E-mailed applications will not be taken into consideration, unless both parts I and II are signed and scanned.
Application forms need to be accompanied by an official recommendation letter from the nominating indigenous organization or community.
Any questions pertaining to the Indigenous Fellowship Programme can be sent to the address mentioned above or E-mailed to: fellowship@ohchr.org
The Indigenous Fellowship Programme (IFP) was launched by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in the context of the first International Decade of the World's Indigenous Peoples (1995/2004).
The aim of the programme is to give indigenous peoples the opportunity to gain knowledge on the UN system and mechanisms dealing with human rights in general and indigenous issues in particular so they can assist their organizations and communities in protecting and promoting the rights of their people. In its first decade, more than 100 indigenous men and women from 46 countries undertook the programme. They provided human rights training to many more in their communities.
The IFP is accessible in four different languages: English, French, Spanish and Russian. The programme -in its four linguistic versions- is held annually. Each language version has developed slightly differently and generally runs from 2 to 4 months. The selected candidates are entitled to a return flight ticket, living expenses and health insurance.
Who can apply?
1. The candidate must be indigenous (non-indigenous persons will not be taken into consideration, even if they have close links with indigenous communities and/or organizations).
2. Age should not be a limitation to participation in the programme, although preference should be given to candidates in the age-bracket 25-35 years.
3. Formal education should not be a limitation to participation in the IFP given the socio-economic barriers confronted by many indigenous peoples that limit access to formal educational institutions.
4. Candidates should agree to train other indigenous persons after the return to their respective communities/organizations.
5. The candidate should be proposed and his/her candidacy supported by his/her indigenous organization and/or community. It is desirable that the sponsoring organization has a firm constituency or membership and that it is representative.
6. The candidate should have a good working knowledge of the language, in which the programme is imparted.
Selection process
The selection of fellows reflects a gender and a regional balance. The general human rights situation in the respective regions/countries is also taken into consideration.
A pre-selection of 15 (first five preferences and 10 alternates) candidates is made by previous indigenous fellows. The final selection of successful candidates is undertaken by an advisory group composed of indigenous persons.
In view of the large number of applications, we regret to inform that only successful candidates will be contacted.
How to apply?
Fellowship applications will only be taken into consideration if they are fully completed. Both parts I and II must be signed and faxed or sent by regular post at the following address:
Indigenous Peoples and Minorities UnitOffice of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human RightsUNOG-OHCHRCH-1211 Geneva 10SwitzerlandTelefax number: (+41 22) 928 90 66
E-mailed applications will not be taken into consideration, unless both parts I and II are signed and scanned.
Application forms need to be accompanied by an official recommendation letter from the nominating indigenous organization or community.
Any questions pertaining to the Indigenous Fellowship Programme can be sent to the address mentioned above or E-mailed to: fellowship@ohchr.org
Tibet - support the Dalai Lama
Hi,
I just signed an urgent petition calling on the Chinese government to respect human rights in Tibet and engage in meaningful dialogue with the Dalai Lama. This is really important, and I thought you might want to take action:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/tibet_end_the_violence/98.php/?cl_tf_sign=1
After nearly 50 years of Chinese rule, the Tibetans are sending out a global cry for change. But violence is spreading across Tibet and neighbouring regions, and the Chinese regime is right now considering a choice between increasing brutality or dialogue, that could determine the future of Tibet and China. We can affect this historic choice. China does care about its international reputation. Its economy is totally dependent on "Made in China" exports that we all buy, and it is keen to make the Olympics in Beijing this summer a celebration of a new China that is a respected world power. President Hu needs to hear that 'Brand China' and the Olympics can succeed only if he makes the right choice. But it will take an avalanche of global people power to get his attention. Click below to join me and sign a petition to President Hu calling for restraint in Tibet and dialogue with the Dalai Lama -- and tell absolutely everyone you can right away. The petition is organized by Avaaz, and they are urgently aiming to reach 1 million signatures to deliver directly to Chinese officials:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/tibet_end_the_violence/98.php/?cl_tf_sign=1
Thank you so much for your help!
I just signed an urgent petition calling on the Chinese government to respect human rights in Tibet and engage in meaningful dialogue with the Dalai Lama. This is really important, and I thought you might want to take action:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/tibet_end_the_violence/98.php/?cl_tf_sign=1
After nearly 50 years of Chinese rule, the Tibetans are sending out a global cry for change. But violence is spreading across Tibet and neighbouring regions, and the Chinese regime is right now considering a choice between increasing brutality or dialogue, that could determine the future of Tibet and China. We can affect this historic choice. China does care about its international reputation. Its economy is totally dependent on "Made in China" exports that we all buy, and it is keen to make the Olympics in Beijing this summer a celebration of a new China that is a respected world power. President Hu needs to hear that 'Brand China' and the Olympics can succeed only if he makes the right choice. But it will take an avalanche of global people power to get his attention. Click below to join me and sign a petition to President Hu calling for restraint in Tibet and dialogue with the Dalai Lama -- and tell absolutely everyone you can right away. The petition is organized by Avaaz, and they are urgently aiming to reach 1 million signatures to deliver directly to Chinese officials:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/tibet_end_the_violence/98.php/?cl_tf_sign=1
Thank you so much for your help!
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Press release by Karenni Development Research Group
Press release by Karenni Development Research Group on March 14, 2008, International Day of Action for Rivers Land-mine injuries and forced labour precede Chinese investment in new Karenni hydropower project Eight villagers have been injured by landmines when forced by the Burma Army to clear land around the two Lawpita hydropower plants near Loikaw, as Chinese investors start construction of a third power plant in the area. The injuries occurred on December 11, 2007, when the commander of Burma Army Light Infantry Battalion 261 ordered hundreds of villagers from Noe Goe village tract to work in the land-mine infested area. According to research by KDRG, over 18,000 land mines have been laid by the Burma Army around the Lawpita power plants since they were constructed with Japanese bilateral aid decades ago. Human rights abuses such as these have stalled further Japanese aid to build the long-planned No. 3 Lawpita hydropower plant. However, residents of Loikaw have been told that Chinese investors are now preparing to build the new plant. In January 2008 local authorities began confiscating land in Daw Mu Kalah village near Loikaw and forcing villagers to clear the land and lay foundations for the construction of the plant, which will have an installed capacity of 84 megawatts. The No 1 and 2 Lawpita power stations have been producing 168 megawatts of electricity, mainly transmitted to Rangoon , Mandalay and other major cities in central Burma . Most of Karenni State receives no electricity at all, while the Karenni people continue to bear the impacts of the project. Land-mine fatalities have occurred repeatedly since the construction of the plants. On May 29, 2007, a 14-year-old girl from Lay Maing, Dee Mow Soe township died after stepping on a land mine while tending her cows near one of the power pylons. "The Lawpita hydropower projects have turned our farms into minefields. On this International Day of Action for Rivers, we urge China to consider the human costs of investing in such projects," said Moe Moe Aung of KDRG. Chinese and Thai companies are also planning five dams along the Salween River in Burma , which will permanently alter Southeast Asia 's longest undammed river and impact indigenous communities, including the Karenni.. Contact:Moe Moe AungPhone: 0899571867Email: kdrg05@yahoo.com For further information on the negative impacts of the Lawpita hydropower plants see the report "Dammed by Burma 's Generals" by KDRG on www.salweenwatch.org
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Monday, March 10, 2008
Call for Participation - COP 9, Bonn Germany
***Call for Participation* *** Please circulate widely.
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS 18 March 2008.
The CBD Alliance supports "Southern" (from 'developing' countries and
countries with economies in transition) civil society representatives,
and Indigenous and local community participation in Convention on
Biological Diversity (CBD) and CBD-related meetings. We have
approximately six spaces (airfare, visa costs, per diem, hotel ) to
support participation in the following meetings:
1. Meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
(COP-MOP 4) 12-16 May 2008, Bonn Germany
Please see http://www.cbd. int/doc/? meeting=MOP- 04 for full agenda
and documents. Issues to be discussed include (but not limited to):
Handling, transport, packaging and identification of living modified
organisms (Article 18)
Risk assessment and risk management (Articles 15 and 16).
Liability and redress (Article 27).
Subsidiary bodies (Article 30).
Monitoring and reporting (Article 33).
Assessment and review (Article 35).
Socio-economic considerations (paragraph 2, Article 26).
Public awareness and participation (paragraph 1, Article 23).
Options for implementation of the notification requirement under Article 8.
2. Ninth Conference of the Parties to the Convention on
Biological Diversity (COP 9) 19 - 30 May 2008, Bonn Germany.
Please see http://www.cbd. int/doc/? meeting=COP- 09 for full agenda
and all documents. Issues to be discussed include (but not limited
to):
Agricultural biodiversity.
Invasive alien species.
Forest biodiversity.
Incentive measures.
Ecosystem approach.
Progress in the implementation of the Strategic Plan and progress
towards the 2010 target.
Financial resources and the financial mechanism.
Access and benefit-sharing.
Article 8(j) and related provisions.
Biodiversity and climate change.
Biodiversity of dry and sub-humid lands.
Protected areas.
Biodiversity of inland waters.
Marine and coastal biodiversity.
Island biodiversity.
Global Taxonomy Initiative.
Liability and redress.
Guidance to the financial mechanism.
Please note: We have found that participants with some experience with
the issues are most effective at fora such as the Conference of the
Parties Please do not apply for this funding unless you have direct
experience with the issues to be discussed at these meetings (at
either local, national, or international levels). We also find that
those most successful participants have a plan for how they will
participate in these meetings: what issues they will press forward,
and how. Please familiarize yourself with the agenda and documents on
the secretariat websites noted above prior to applying.
If you are interested, please fill out the application below, also
available on www.cbdalliance. org. DO NOT SEND CVs/Resumes - FILL OUT
THE APPLICATION AND BE AS BRIEF AS POSSIBLE.
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS 18 March 2008.
Applications received after this date will not be considered.
PLEASE EMAIL APPLICATIONS TO Swati Shresth (swatishresth@ gmail.com).
Please put "CBD Alliance Application" in the subject of your email.
Application Process:
The Advisory Board to the CBD Alliance is responsible for selecting
participants. This advisory board is regionally balanced civil society
and also has specific representation for Indigenous Peoples, Women,
and youth. The board has been openly nominated and supported through
the biodiv_civsoc listserve. Upon receiving applications, regional
advisory board members make recommendations to the full advisory
board, who is responsible for the final decision making. Please
contact Swati Shresth at swatishresth@ gmail.com for more information
on the advisory board and the process we use to select participants.
Or see www.cbdalliance. org for more information including the current
advisory board.
You will receive notification of the results by 31 March 2008. If
selected you are required to either accept or decline the support
within 3 days of receiving notice. Following this, selected
participants must follow the deadlines communicated by the coordinator
in order to facilitate prompt travel arrangements. Failure to comply
with these deadlines will result in a reallocation of funding to other
applicants.
Funding Disbursement:
For those selected, the Alliance prefers to reimburse participants
(individuals/ organizations) after the event upon receiving the
original receipts, signed invoices and the final report (see
application form for more information on the report). This is for
accounting purposes. However, exceptions can be made for candidates
requiring pre-financing (for airfare only, hotel and perdiems will be
paid at the meeting, all other expenses are reimbursed following
receipt of all receipts and reports).
About the CBD Alliance
The CBD Alliance is a loose network of activists, NGOs, local
community representatives and Indigenous Peoples representatives
advocating for improved and informed participation in Convention on
Biological Diversity processes - particularly the participation of
Southern NGOs, Indigenous Peoples and Community Based Organizations.
We currently moderate an email listserve of over 250 activists around
the CBD. See www.cbdalliance. org for more information. The Alliance
is currently hosted by Kalpavriksh, an environmental NGO Based in
Pune, India. See http://www.kalpavri ksh.org/ for more information.
Application Form
Please fill out the following application form. Please do not send CVs
or resumes.
I. Contact and Affiliation Details
Name:
Organizational Affiliation:
Address:
Email:
II. Meetings you would like to attend
Please note clearly the meetings you would like to attend (MOP 4 and/or COP 9).
III. Information about yourself
Please answer the following questions. Please be brief (less than 400
words in total). Successful candidates are generally those who have
clear, specific plans of what they hope to achieve at the meetings
beyond general 'learning'.
What is your experience with biodiversity issues (local, national,
regional, international) , in particular, we would like to know what
experience you have with issues being discussed at these meetings.
Please be specific. If you are applying for both meetings please
reference your experience with issues on both agendas.
Explain briefly why you want to participate in these meetings, and
what you hope to gain from participating. What issues do you hope to
bring forward, particularly in relation to the issues under
discussion? What groups will you work with, and how will you make the
views of your organization or community known?
Please outline any experience you have within international processes.
IV Participation in civil society strategy sessions and training session
All selected participants new to the CBD process, or relatively new,
are required to attend the inaugural Civil Society capacity building
day on 16 May 2008. This means arriving in Bonn on 15 May. In
addition, the Alliance, along with its partners, will be hosting
sessions on the weekend prior to COP 9 to allow for information
sharing, further capacity building and joint strategy building. All of
our supported participants are expected to participate in these
sessions. Please indicate if you will be able to attend these
sessions, which requires arriving one or two days before the official
secretariat meetings. Please answer Yes or No.
V Languages spoken
While we endeavor to make this process open, we struggle with
interpretation costs. Please list all languages you are able to work
in, so we can best anticipate and plan for your needs, if you should
be selected.
NOTE:
Each funded participant is required to write a brief, but analytical
report from the meeting outlining what happened, what was achieved,
and their participation. We also strongly encourage selected
applicants to contribute an article to the production of the ECO - the
civil society newsletter (please see www.cbdalliance. org). It is
expected that each selected participant will actively and fully
participate in the proceedings.
KINDLY CC YOUR APPLICATION TO ASIA INDIGENOUS PEOPLES PACT FOUNDATION
aipp@aippfoundation .org.
Mekong Alumni will collaborate to promote harmonious relationships
between Humans and the Environment.
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS 18 March 2008.
The CBD Alliance supports "Southern" (from 'developing' countries and
countries with economies in transition) civil society representatives,
and Indigenous and local community participation in Convention on
Biological Diversity (CBD) and CBD-related meetings. We have
approximately six spaces (airfare, visa costs, per diem, hotel ) to
support participation in the following meetings:
1. Meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
(COP-MOP 4) 12-16 May 2008, Bonn Germany
Please see http://www.cbd. int/doc/? meeting=MOP- 04 for full agenda
and documents. Issues to be discussed include (but not limited to):
Handling, transport, packaging and identification of living modified
organisms (Article 18)
Risk assessment and risk management (Articles 15 and 16).
Liability and redress (Article 27).
Subsidiary bodies (Article 30).
Monitoring and reporting (Article 33).
Assessment and review (Article 35).
Socio-economic considerations (paragraph 2, Article 26).
Public awareness and participation (paragraph 1, Article 23).
Options for implementation of the notification requirement under Article 8.
2. Ninth Conference of the Parties to the Convention on
Biological Diversity (COP 9) 19 - 30 May 2008, Bonn Germany.
Please see http://www.cbd. int/doc/? meeting=COP- 09 for full agenda
and all documents. Issues to be discussed include (but not limited
to):
Agricultural biodiversity.
Invasive alien species.
Forest biodiversity.
Incentive measures.
Ecosystem approach.
Progress in the implementation of the Strategic Plan and progress
towards the 2010 target.
Financial resources and the financial mechanism.
Access and benefit-sharing.
Article 8(j) and related provisions.
Biodiversity and climate change.
Biodiversity of dry and sub-humid lands.
Protected areas.
Biodiversity of inland waters.
Marine and coastal biodiversity.
Island biodiversity.
Global Taxonomy Initiative.
Liability and redress.
Guidance to the financial mechanism.
Please note: We have found that participants with some experience with
the issues are most effective at fora such as the Conference of the
Parties Please do not apply for this funding unless you have direct
experience with the issues to be discussed at these meetings (at
either local, national, or international levels). We also find that
those most successful participants have a plan for how they will
participate in these meetings: what issues they will press forward,
and how. Please familiarize yourself with the agenda and documents on
the secretariat websites noted above prior to applying.
If you are interested, please fill out the application below, also
available on www.cbdalliance. org. DO NOT SEND CVs/Resumes - FILL OUT
THE APPLICATION AND BE AS BRIEF AS POSSIBLE.
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS 18 March 2008.
Applications received after this date will not be considered.
PLEASE EMAIL APPLICATIONS TO Swati Shresth (swatishresth@ gmail.com).
Please put "CBD Alliance Application" in the subject of your email.
Application Process:
The Advisory Board to the CBD Alliance is responsible for selecting
participants. This advisory board is regionally balanced civil society
and also has specific representation for Indigenous Peoples, Women,
and youth. The board has been openly nominated and supported through
the biodiv_civsoc listserve. Upon receiving applications, regional
advisory board members make recommendations to the full advisory
board, who is responsible for the final decision making. Please
contact Swati Shresth at swatishresth@ gmail.com for more information
on the advisory board and the process we use to select participants.
Or see www.cbdalliance. org for more information including the current
advisory board.
You will receive notification of the results by 31 March 2008. If
selected you are required to either accept or decline the support
within 3 days of receiving notice. Following this, selected
participants must follow the deadlines communicated by the coordinator
in order to facilitate prompt travel arrangements. Failure to comply
with these deadlines will result in a reallocation of funding to other
applicants.
Funding Disbursement:
For those selected, the Alliance prefers to reimburse participants
(individuals/ organizations) after the event upon receiving the
original receipts, signed invoices and the final report (see
application form for more information on the report). This is for
accounting purposes. However, exceptions can be made for candidates
requiring pre-financing (for airfare only, hotel and perdiems will be
paid at the meeting, all other expenses are reimbursed following
receipt of all receipts and reports).
About the CBD Alliance
The CBD Alliance is a loose network of activists, NGOs, local
community representatives and Indigenous Peoples representatives
advocating for improved and informed participation in Convention on
Biological Diversity processes - particularly the participation of
Southern NGOs, Indigenous Peoples and Community Based Organizations.
We currently moderate an email listserve of over 250 activists around
the CBD. See www.cbdalliance. org for more information. The Alliance
is currently hosted by Kalpavriksh, an environmental NGO Based in
Pune, India. See http://www.kalpavri ksh.org/ for more information.
Application Form
Please fill out the following application form. Please do not send CVs
or resumes.
I. Contact and Affiliation Details
Name:
Organizational Affiliation:
Address:
Email:
II. Meetings you would like to attend
Please note clearly the meetings you would like to attend (MOP 4 and/or COP 9).
III. Information about yourself
Please answer the following questions. Please be brief (less than 400
words in total). Successful candidates are generally those who have
clear, specific plans of what they hope to achieve at the meetings
beyond general 'learning'.
What is your experience with biodiversity issues (local, national,
regional, international) , in particular, we would like to know what
experience you have with issues being discussed at these meetings.
Please be specific. If you are applying for both meetings please
reference your experience with issues on both agendas.
Explain briefly why you want to participate in these meetings, and
what you hope to gain from participating. What issues do you hope to
bring forward, particularly in relation to the issues under
discussion? What groups will you work with, and how will you make the
views of your organization or community known?
Please outline any experience you have within international processes.
IV Participation in civil society strategy sessions and training session
All selected participants new to the CBD process, or relatively new,
are required to attend the inaugural Civil Society capacity building
day on 16 May 2008. This means arriving in Bonn on 15 May. In
addition, the Alliance, along with its partners, will be hosting
sessions on the weekend prior to COP 9 to allow for information
sharing, further capacity building and joint strategy building. All of
our supported participants are expected to participate in these
sessions. Please indicate if you will be able to attend these
sessions, which requires arriving one or two days before the official
secretariat meetings. Please answer Yes or No.
V Languages spoken
While we endeavor to make this process open, we struggle with
interpretation costs. Please list all languages you are able to work
in, so we can best anticipate and plan for your needs, if you should
be selected.
NOTE:
Each funded participant is required to write a brief, but analytical
report from the meeting outlining what happened, what was achieved,
and their participation. We also strongly encourage selected
applicants to contribute an article to the production of the ECO - the
civil society newsletter (please see www.cbdalliance. org). It is
expected that each selected participant will actively and fully
participate in the proceedings.
KINDLY CC YOUR APPLICATION TO ASIA INDIGENOUS PEOPLES PACT FOUNDATION
aipp@aippfoundation .org.
Mekong Alumni will collaborate to promote harmonious relationships
between Humans and the Environment.
Dear all,
Please circulate this call among Wikimedia communities, researchersand other people that may be interested! This call is also online at
http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Call_for_Participation============ Wikimania 2008: Call for Participation =============Wikimania is an annual global event devoted to Wikimedia projectsaround the globe (including Wikipedia, Wikibooks, Wikisource, Wikinews,Wiktionary, Wikiversity, Wikiquote, Wikispecies, and Wikimedia Commons)and for its editors and users to gather, meet each other, exchange ideas,and report on research and projects. It is a community event, which isalso open to the public and to researchers. This year's conference willbe held from July 17-19, 2008 in Alexandria, Egypt at the new Library ofAlexandria (Bibliotheca Alexandrina).For more information, please visit the Wikimania 2008 Home page athttp://wikimania2008.wikimedia.orgWe are accepting submissions for presentations, workshops, panels, posters,open spaces, and artistic artifacts. Please carefully follow the submissionguidelines below. Submissions can be sent via the following link:https://wikimedia.pentabarf.org/submission/wikimania2008================== Important dates ======================* 1 February – 16 March : Submission* 17 March – 30 April : Review, feedback and notification of acceptance* 17 – 19 July 2007 : Wikimania================== Conference Tracks ===================Submissions should address one or more of the following themes:Wikimedia Communities :Interesting projects and particularities within the communities; policycreation within individual projects; conflict resolution and communitydynamics; reputation and identity; multi-lingualism, languages andcultures; social studies. We explicitly invite you to discuss your localWikimedia project's community.Free Knowledge :Open access to information; ways to gather and distribute free knowledge,usage of the Wikimedia projects in education, journalism, research; waysto improve content quality and usability; copyright laws and other legalareas that interfere with Wikimedia projects. Free Content in theMiddle-East/Africa.Technical infrastructure :Issues related to MediaWiki development and extensions; Wikimedia'stechnical infrastructure; new ideas for development (including casestudies from other wikis or similar projects).Scientific track :Papers about massively collaborative work, open and free content creation,community dynamics, the social or economic aspects of the Wikimediaprojects, and other topics related to Wikimedia projects. Paperssubmitted to the scientific track will be peer reviewed by a reviewingcommittee regarding their novelty, rigour, and estimated impact, andaccepted or rejected based on these reviews. The papers will be publishedin proceedings afterwards, and depending on the number and the qualityof the submissions, a journal special issue may be pursued. Scientifictrack papers must be in English, and must not exceed 7,500 words(or 15 pages LNCS).Your topic must be related either to the Wikimedia projects and theircommunities, or to the creation of free content in general.=================== Types of Submissions ==================We are seeking submissions for* presentations (10–30 minute talks with discussion afterwards)* workshops (60–120 minute session with more involvement of the audience)* panels (group of 2-5 speakers to discuss on a specific subject)* posters (printed presentations or visual displays that can stand on their own)* artistic artifacts (plays, competitions, comedy, visualizations, or other representations of some aspect of the projects)In addition there will the possibility to give lightning talks (5minute short presentations). These will be organized on the Wikimania2008 wiki without need to submit via the submission system.For more information about Submission Guidelines, please see:http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Submission======================= Submissions ========================Once you are sure you have included all of the required information,please send your submission before the respective deadline through oursubmission system at https://wikimedia.pentabarf.org/submission== See also ==* About the venue: http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Venue* Brainstorming page for program ideas:http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Program_ideas* Editable list of attendees: http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Attendees--Tzu-Chiang LiouLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tcliouFaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=543610417Email: tcliou@ {gmail.comiis.sinica.edu.tw} MSN: tcliou@msn.com Skype: tcliou--
Please circulate this call among Wikimedia communities, researchersand other people that may be interested! This call is also online at
http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Call_for_Participation============ Wikimania 2008: Call for Participation =============Wikimania is an annual global event devoted to Wikimedia projectsaround the globe (including Wikipedia, Wikibooks, Wikisource, Wikinews,Wiktionary, Wikiversity, Wikiquote, Wikispecies, and Wikimedia Commons)and for its editors and users to gather, meet each other, exchange ideas,and report on research and projects. It is a community event, which isalso open to the public and to researchers. This year's conference willbe held from July 17-19, 2008 in Alexandria, Egypt at the new Library ofAlexandria (Bibliotheca Alexandrina).For more information, please visit the Wikimania 2008 Home page athttp://wikimania2008.wikimedia.orgWe are accepting submissions for presentations, workshops, panels, posters,open spaces, and artistic artifacts. Please carefully follow the submissionguidelines below. Submissions can be sent via the following link:https://wikimedia.pentabarf.org/submission/wikimania2008================== Important dates ======================* 1 February – 16 March : Submission* 17 March – 30 April : Review, feedback and notification of acceptance* 17 – 19 July 2007 : Wikimania================== Conference Tracks ===================Submissions should address one or more of the following themes:Wikimedia Communities :Interesting projects and particularities within the communities; policycreation within individual projects; conflict resolution and communitydynamics; reputation and identity; multi-lingualism, languages andcultures; social studies. We explicitly invite you to discuss your localWikimedia project's community.Free Knowledge :Open access to information; ways to gather and distribute free knowledge,usage of the Wikimedia projects in education, journalism, research; waysto improve content quality and usability; copyright laws and other legalareas that interfere with Wikimedia projects. Free Content in theMiddle-East/Africa.Technical infrastructure :Issues related to MediaWiki development and extensions; Wikimedia'stechnical infrastructure; new ideas for development (including casestudies from other wikis or similar projects).Scientific track :Papers about massively collaborative work, open and free content creation,community dynamics, the social or economic aspects of the Wikimediaprojects, and other topics related to Wikimedia projects. Paperssubmitted to the scientific track will be peer reviewed by a reviewingcommittee regarding their novelty, rigour, and estimated impact, andaccepted or rejected based on these reviews. The papers will be publishedin proceedings afterwards, and depending on the number and the qualityof the submissions, a journal special issue may be pursued. Scientifictrack papers must be in English, and must not exceed 7,500 words(or 15 pages LNCS).Your topic must be related either to the Wikimedia projects and theircommunities, or to the creation of free content in general.=================== Types of Submissions ==================We are seeking submissions for* presentations (10–30 minute talks with discussion afterwards)* workshops (60–120 minute session with more involvement of the audience)* panels (group of 2-5 speakers to discuss on a specific subject)* posters (printed presentations or visual displays that can stand on their own)* artistic artifacts (plays, competitions, comedy, visualizations, or other representations of some aspect of the projects)In addition there will the possibility to give lightning talks (5minute short presentations). These will be organized on the Wikimania2008 wiki without need to submit via the submission system.For more information about Submission Guidelines, please see:http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Submission======================= Submissions ========================Once you are sure you have included all of the required information,please send your submission before the respective deadline through oursubmission system at https://wikimedia.pentabarf.org/submission== See also ==* About the venue: http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Venue* Brainstorming page for program ideas:http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Program_ideas* Editable list of attendees: http://wikimania2008.wikimedia.org/wiki/Attendees--Tzu-Chiang LiouLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tcliouFaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=543610417Email: tcliou@ {gmail.comiis.sinica.edu.tw} MSN: tcliou@msn.com Skype: tcliou--
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Training on Environment, Ecological Agriculture, and Sustainable Development
Training on Environment, Ecological Agriculture, and Sustainable Development
Place: Phnom Penh,
Starting from: March 15, 2008- April 06, 2008
JVC is a non-governmental organization, which has worked for SARD (Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development) since 1994. In 1999, JVC started environment education project with primary school children in Kandal province. And in 2006, JVC started a new project, promoting ecological agriculture through natural resource management in Siem Reap province. Training Objective. To raise awareness of youth to become a change maker who understands and takes action to protect environment and to practice ecological agriculture, and to understand the key concepts of sustainable development.. To make youth become familiar with the current situation of development both locally and globally. To discuss, introduce the connection between the theory and real practice on those topics. Training content1. Concept of environment -Definition of environment -Type of environment and its relation2. Concept of ecological agriculture -Concept of ecology -Concept of biodiversity3. Concept of sustainable development -Definition of sustainable/ development -Some alternative solutions and concrete examples4. Research methodsTraining methodologyThe training methods of this course will be a combination of: VCD showing; case study; group discussion and presentation; and lecturing. The trainees shall be encouraged to share their own ideas. Materials and costs.This training course will be free of charge.JVC will bear the cost of related documents and field trip as well as research after training LanguageKhmer and EnglishTarget groupUniversity students and NGO workers who:- are willing to learn, share ideas and take action;- have time to join the training;- love remote areas and are able to stay there.Trainer1. Mr. YAMASAKI Masaru (Program Coordinator)2. Mr. SAKAMOTO Takanori (CLEAN project) 3. Mr. SAY Bora (EE Coordinator)How to applyJVC offers an equal chance to every student.Interested candidates are advice to fill in the application form (available free of charge) and send to JVC Cambodia office at your convenient time during working hours (7:30-17:00, Monday-Friday) before the deadline.CertificateSuccessful candidates are awarded with a certificate offered by JVC.Training Schedule-The training will take 3 weeks. 2 days per week, conducted every Saturday and Sunday (7:30am-11:30am and 14:00pm-17:00pm), started from March 15, 2008.Application deadline.March 10, 2008 .15 participants will be selected(Only those who are selected will be informed for interviewing)Contact PersonMr. SAY BoraAdd : JVC Cambodia office #66A, St. 222Sangkat Boeung Raing, Khan Daun Penh, P.O.Box 526, Phnom Penh, CambodiaH/P : 011 202 644Tel : 023 220 481/ FAX: 023-220-482 Email : devjvc@online.com.khNote-We do not accept application forms through electronic mail. -Those who previously applied for this training are encouraged to apply again.
Place: Phnom Penh,
Starting from: March 15, 2008- April 06, 2008
JVC is a non-governmental organization, which has worked for SARD (Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development) since 1994. In 1999, JVC started environment education project with primary school children in Kandal province. And in 2006, JVC started a new project, promoting ecological agriculture through natural resource management in Siem Reap province. Training Objective. To raise awareness of youth to become a change maker who understands and takes action to protect environment and to practice ecological agriculture, and to understand the key concepts of sustainable development.. To make youth become familiar with the current situation of development both locally and globally. To discuss, introduce the connection between the theory and real practice on those topics. Training content1. Concept of environment -Definition of environment -Type of environment and its relation2. Concept of ecological agriculture -Concept of ecology -Concept of biodiversity3. Concept of sustainable development -Definition of sustainable/ development -Some alternative solutions and concrete examples4. Research methodsTraining methodologyThe training methods of this course will be a combination of: VCD showing; case study; group discussion and presentation; and lecturing. The trainees shall be encouraged to share their own ideas. Materials and costs.This training course will be free of charge.JVC will bear the cost of related documents and field trip as well as research after training LanguageKhmer and EnglishTarget groupUniversity students and NGO workers who:- are willing to learn, share ideas and take action;- have time to join the training;- love remote areas and are able to stay there.Trainer1. Mr. YAMASAKI Masaru (Program Coordinator)2. Mr. SAKAMOTO Takanori (CLEAN project) 3. Mr. SAY Bora (EE Coordinator)How to applyJVC offers an equal chance to every student.Interested candidates are advice to fill in the application form (available free of charge) and send to JVC Cambodia office at your convenient time during working hours (7:30-17:00, Monday-Friday) before the deadline.CertificateSuccessful candidates are awarded with a certificate offered by JVC.Training Schedule-The training will take 3 weeks. 2 days per week, conducted every Saturday and Sunday (7:30am-11:30am and 14:00pm-17:00pm), started from March 15, 2008.Application deadline.March 10, 2008 .15 participants will be selected(Only those who are selected will be informed for interviewing)Contact PersonMr. SAY BoraAdd : JVC Cambodia office #66A, St. 222Sangkat Boeung Raing, Khan Daun Penh, P.O.Box 526, Phnom Penh, CambodiaH/P : 011 202 644Tel : 023 220 481/ FAX: 023-220-482 Email : devjvc@online.com.khNote-We do not accept application forms through electronic mail. -Those who previously applied for this training are encouraged to apply again.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
RefINT2581
Region East Asia
Location Hanoi
Division International Department
Position TypeOpen Ended
Job Family Programme Closing date for applications (23:59 GMT)9 March 2008
Job Profile
To manage the development and implementation of Oxfam GB's projects within Oxfam Aim 4 "Right to be Heard" programme. Taking the lead in one or more programmatic theme for Oxfam GB in Vietnam.
Dimensions
· Work pattern is a mixture of reactive and project work. · Required to make sound judgements regularly within agreed processes using a good understanding of the team and the facilities of the team.· Communication largely with internal staff, (including internationally) also with some external contacts / target audiences to support operational work.· Analysis and internal communication of the locally relevant context to inform appropriate planning· Some analysis and communication of the wider context· Supervises the work of contractors, partners and junior staff for delivery of the programme· Problem solving activities related to a defined area, such as a limited geographical area or limited programme sectional area· Some negotiation and representation with local authorities· Networking with peers to develop a shared analysis of local issues, contacts and key players
Key Responsibilities
Contribute to the Oxfam GB programme planning and development and specifically for Oxfam's Right to be Heard programme. . Responsible for projects management and implementation within Right to be Heard programme Responsible for project's resource planning and management including human resource, assets and financial accountability.Ensure timely internal and external reporting (financial and narrative) .Ensure implementation of Oxfam GB's operational policies, procedures and guidelines, especially gender equity, in all aspects of Oxfam's work. Act as Oxfam's representative at provincial and national level as required. Take lead in one or more of the following programmatic themes e.g. ethnic minorities, gender equity, accountability, governance and civil society etc.
Skills and Competence
¨ Vietnamese national. ¨ University degree, preferably social science, related field or/and management¨ Proven (at least 5 years) experience in programme/project strategic planning and management. Working experience with NGOs or international development organisation is preferable. ¨ Proven experience in programming work, especially experience in application of participatory approaches ¨ Sound experience in resource management e.g. people, finances, assets¨ Good understanding and practical experience in application to support equity issues (Gender and diversity)¨ Good understanding of Governance, Grass-roots Democracy and Civil Society issues in Vietnam¨ Good understanding in Socio-economic Development Plan system and planning reform in Vietnam¨ Familiar with advocacy work at local and national level.¨ Strong written and spoken English and Vietnamese¨ Good computer skills (word processing and spreadsheet programs) ¨ Able to travel to programme/project areas on a regular basis Gross Annual Salary Full Range: US$ 8,200 - US$ 15,250
MORE INFO...
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Region East Asia
Location Hanoi
Division International Department
Position TypeOpen Ended
Job Family Programme Closing date for applications (23:59 GMT)9 March 2008
Job Profile
To manage the development and implementation of Oxfam GB's projects within Oxfam Aim 4 "Right to be Heard" programme. Taking the lead in one or more programmatic theme for Oxfam GB in Vietnam.
Dimensions
· Work pattern is a mixture of reactive and project work. · Required to make sound judgements regularly within agreed processes using a good understanding of the team and the facilities of the team.· Communication largely with internal staff, (including internationally) also with some external contacts / target audiences to support operational work.· Analysis and internal communication of the locally relevant context to inform appropriate planning· Some analysis and communication of the wider context· Supervises the work of contractors, partners and junior staff for delivery of the programme· Problem solving activities related to a defined area, such as a limited geographical area or limited programme sectional area· Some negotiation and representation with local authorities· Networking with peers to develop a shared analysis of local issues, contacts and key players
Key Responsibilities
Contribute to the Oxfam GB programme planning and development and specifically for Oxfam's Right to be Heard programme. . Responsible for projects management and implementation within Right to be Heard programme Responsible for project's resource planning and management including human resource, assets and financial accountability.Ensure timely internal and external reporting (financial and narrative) .Ensure implementation of Oxfam GB's operational policies, procedures and guidelines, especially gender equity, in all aspects of Oxfam's work. Act as Oxfam's representative at provincial and national level as required. Take lead in one or more of the following programmatic themes e.g. ethnic minorities, gender equity, accountability, governance and civil society etc.
Skills and Competence
¨ Vietnamese national. ¨ University degree, preferably social science, related field or/and management¨ Proven (at least 5 years) experience in programme/project strategic planning and management. Working experience with NGOs or international development organisation is preferable. ¨ Proven experience in programming work, especially experience in application of participatory approaches ¨ Sound experience in resource management e.g. people, finances, assets¨ Good understanding and practical experience in application to support equity issues (Gender and diversity)¨ Good understanding of Governance, Grass-roots Democracy and Civil Society issues in Vietnam¨ Good understanding in Socio-economic Development Plan system and planning reform in Vietnam¨ Familiar with advocacy work at local and national level.¨ Strong written and spoken English and Vietnamese¨ Good computer skills (word processing and spreadsheet programs) ¨ Able to travel to programme/project areas on a regular basis Gross Annual Salary Full Range: US$ 8,200 - US$ 15,250
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Robert S. McNamara (RSM) Fellowships
Robert S. McNamara (RSM) Fellowships
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program provides support to young researchers working in academic and research institutions from eligible countries preparing a doctoral thesis. Research grants cover residence costs for a 5 to 10 month period in a renowned university or research center. Fellows are expected to advance their research work mainly by using the facilities and resources provided by the host Robert S. McNamara (RSM) Fellowships institution and by interacting with peers.
Who Can Apply?
Only lecturers and researchers from eligible countries working on their doctoral thesis can apply for the fellowship. Candidates should be under 45 years, and have completed any course work or exams required for their doctoral program.
What Does the Program Support?
The purpose of the grant is to help fellows advance their doctoral research work through a residency period of five to ten months in a host institution in a country other than their home country or country of residence.During the research period at the host institution, the fellows are expected to have access to essential resources such as reference books and research publications, databases, and software; attend seminars and eventually courses; and to benefit by interacting with peers.
Host InstitutionCandidates should be accepted or invited by a host institution which would designate an academic advisor to assist the fellow during his research period. Host institutions should also commit to provide the fellow with basic amenities such as office space and access to a computer, and to facilitate his/her research activities.
Fellowships AwardEligible candidates are evaluated by external reviewers based on three criteria: academic performance, teaching and research experience, and relevance of the proposed research program. The top candidates are submitted to the Selection Committee, which includes World Bank senior experts and Donors representatives, for final selection. In addition to the merit criteria, the Selection Committee takes into account other factors such as availability of budget, geographical diversity and gender balance.
GrantsCandidates are requested to submit a budget for their fellowship covering the costs related to their research program: travel; insurance and living expenses; fees for courses and participation to seminars; and a books and software allowance.The grant amount to be awarded to each fellow will be decided by the Selection Committee. The maximum amount of the grant is US$ 25,000.
Fellow's CommitmentFellows are required to issue two reports, a mid-term report during the fellowship period and a final report containing the results of the research. The results of the McNamara fellows research work may be considered for publication by the World Bank.Fellows are expected to return to their home countries and resume their academic or research position upon completion of the fellowship. They are also expected to mention the McNamara fellowship award in any publication related to their doctoral research work, including their thesis, and to provide the Program with a copy of their thesis upon graduation.
Read more:http://Cambodiajobs.blogspot.com/2008/02/robert-s-mcnamara-rsm-fellowships.html
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program provides support to young researchers working in academic and research institutions from eligible countries preparing a doctoral thesis. Research grants cover residence costs for a 5 to 10 month period in a renowned university or research center. Fellows are expected to advance their research work mainly by using the facilities and resources provided by the host Robert S. McNamara (RSM) Fellowship
Who Can Apply?
Only lecturers and researchers from eligible countries working on their doctoral thesis can apply for the fellowship. Candidates should be under 45 years, and have completed any course work or exams required for their doctoral program.
What Does the Program Support?
The purpose of the grant is to help fellows advance their doctoral research work through a residency period of five to ten months in a host institution in a country other than their home country or country of residence.During the research period at the host institution, the fellows are expected to have access to essential resources such as reference books and research publications, databases, and software; attend seminars and eventually courses; and to benefit by interacting with peers.
Host InstitutionCandidates should be accepted or invited by a host institution which would designate an academic advisor to assist the fellow during his research period. Host institutions should also commit to provide the fellow with basic amenities such as office space and access to a computer, and to facilitate his/her research activities.
Fellowships AwardEligible candidates are evaluated by external reviewers based on three criteria: academic performance, teaching and research experience, and relevance of the proposed research program. The top candidates are submitted to the Selection Committee, which includes World Bank senior experts and Donors representatives, for final selection. In addition to the merit criteria, the Selection Committee takes into account other factors such as availability of budget, geographical diversity and gender balance.
GrantsCandidates are requested to submit a budget for their fellowship covering the costs related to their research program: travel; insurance and living expenses; fees for courses and participation to seminars; and a books and software allowance.The grant amount to be awarded to each fellow will be decided by the Selection Committee. The maximum amount of the grant is US$ 25,000.
Fellow's CommitmentFellows are required to issue two reports, a mid-term report during the fellowship period and a final report containing the results of the research. The results of the McNamara fellows research work may be considered for publication by the World Bank.Fellows are expected to return to their home countries and resume their academic or research position upon completion of the fellowship. They are also expected to mention the McNamara fellowship award in any publication related to their doctoral research work, including their thesis, and to provide the Program with a copy of their thesis upon graduation.
Read more:http://Cambodiajobs.blogspot.com/2008/02/robert-s-mcnamara-rsm-fellowships.html
Friday, February 15, 2008
Mekong ICT Camp press release
The Mekong Sub-Region ICT CampPattaya, Thailand - Feb 25 to Feb 29, 2008
The Mekong Sub-Region ICT Camp is a five-day capacity developmentworkshop on information and communications technology for media groupsand non-governmental organisations in the Mekong sub-region. Thisevent will invite over 70 participants and facilitators mainly fromMyammer, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand, to bring about aneffective use of information and communications technology and awidespread of ICT network in order to strengthen alternative media andnon-profits in the region as independent information source.
Participants represent media and NGOs working in the Mekong sub-regioncountries with a history of working with service and advocacy in NGOs,educational organisations, NGO resource centres, community centres,health information organisations, Media agencies and Alternative mediaorganisations.
The focus of the agenda will be on the following four areas:1. Information Management,2. E-Advocacy,3. Computer Network for development, and4. Promotion of the Use of Open Source Software among the Media Organizations and NGOs.
The workshop will take place from February 25th to 29th at ThammasartUniversity Learning Resort, Pattaya, Chonburi province, Thailand.Pattaya city is a famous beach resort located 147 km southeast ofBangkok and faces the Thai Gulf.
This event is organized by the Thai Fund Foundation and collaborative with a group of dedicated organisations: TRN Institute, Thai Volunteer Service, and Volunteer Spirit Network.
The Mekong ICT Camp is realized thanks to the kindest support from:the Open Society Institute, Southeast Asian Center for e-Media(SEACeM), the Friedrich Naumann Foundation, Internews, CAT Telecom,Bank of Thailand, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau.
So far, two ICT camps entitled by AsiaSource have been held for NGOworkers in Asia. The first one took place at Bangalore in India in2005, and the second at Sukabhumi in Indonesia. The events were organized by Tactical Technology Collective. More than 400 participants from all over Asia attended the workshops. These events have played a key role to increase the number of ICT specialists in Asian NGO sector that can transfer their knowledge to others worldwide.
For more information please visit website: www.mekongict4d.org or contact to e-mail: mekongict4d@ict.or.th
The Mekong Sub-Region ICT Camp is a five-day capacity developmentworkshop on information and communications technology for media groupsand non-governmental organisations in the Mekong sub-region. Thisevent will invite over 70 participants and facilitators mainly fromMyammer, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand, to bring about aneffective use of information and communications technology and awidespread of ICT network in order to strengthen alternative media andnon-profits in the region as independent information source.
Participants represent media and NGOs working in the Mekong sub-regioncountries with a history of working with service and advocacy in NGOs,educational organisations, NGO resource centres, community centres,health information organisations, Media agencies and Alternative mediaorganisations.
The focus of the agenda will be on the following four areas:1. Information Management,2. E-Advocacy,3. Computer Network for development, and4. Promotion of the Use of Open Source Software among the Media Organizations and NGOs.
The workshop will take place from February 25th to 29th at ThammasartUniversity Learning Resort, Pattaya, Chonburi province, Thailand.Pattaya city is a famous beach resort located 147 km southeast ofBangkok and faces the Thai Gulf.
This event is organized by the Thai Fund Foundation and collaborative with a group of dedicated organisations: TRN Institute, Thai Volunteer Service, and Volunteer Spirit Network.
The Mekong ICT Camp is realized thanks to the kindest support from:the Open Society Institute, Southeast Asian Center for e-Media(SEACeM), the Friedrich Naumann Foundation, Internews, CAT Telecom,Bank of Thailand, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau.
So far, two ICT camps entitled by AsiaSource have been held for NGOworkers in Asia. The first one took place at Bangalore in India in2005, and the second at Sukabhumi in Indonesia. The events were organized by Tactical Technology Collective. More than 400 participants from all over Asia attended the workshops. These events have played a key role to increase the number of ICT specialists in Asian NGO sector that can transfer their knowledge to others worldwide.
For more information please visit website: www.mekongict4d.org or contact to e-mail: mekongict4d@ict.or.th
Thursday, February 14, 2008
LeadershipProgram- Korea
To whom it may concern.
This is to request you to recommend CSOs (Civil Society Organization) and GOs of your region including your organization to participate our training program. UNEP Eco-Peace Leadership Center supports CSOs/GOs to find the solution for Environmental problems that they faced in their own country. Last year we recruited and trained 23 representatives from 12 countries in Asia-Pacific region and this is the second program. We focus on 7 different topics with the collaboration of UNEP. Seven topics are ‘Peace & Cooperation’, ‘Urban Ecology Environment’, ‘Water & Dam’, ‘Desertification & Forest’, ‘Local Community Revival’, ‘Environment & Culture’ and ‘Renewable Energy’.
All candidates should send ‘Application and Study Plan’ which is based on the real field problems or the current issues that you want to solve in your hometown related on 7 topics mentioned above. We plan to have an Orientation on coming May in Korea for a week which will be flexible. We will support $2,000 for completion of our program, in addition to meals, accommodation and air ticket for your travel to Korea. All documents stated below should be submitted by the end of March, 2008.
Application, Study and Budget Plan Form
Recommendation letters
Resume or CV
English proficiency
Please find the attached files for further information.If you have any questions, please contact the address and number in attached file.
Sincerely, Yeong-Wan SeoSecretary General of UNEP Eco-Peace Leadership Center
This is to request you to recommend CSOs (Civil Society Organization) and GOs of your region including your organization to participate our training program. UNEP Eco-Peace Leadership Center supports CSOs/GOs to find the solution for Environmental problems that they faced in their own country. Last year we recruited and trained 23 representatives from 12 countries in Asia-Pacific region and this is the second program. We focus on 7 different topics with the collaboration of UNEP. Seven topics are ‘Peace & Cooperation’, ‘Urban Ecology Environment’, ‘Water & Dam’, ‘Desertification & Forest’, ‘Local Community Revival’, ‘Environment & Culture’ and ‘Renewable Energy’.
All candidates should send ‘Application and Study Plan’ which is based on the real field problems or the current issues that you want to solve in your hometown related on 7 topics mentioned above. We plan to have an Orientation on coming May in Korea for a week which will be flexible. We will support $2,000 for completion of our program, in addition to meals, accommodation and air ticket for your travel to Korea. All documents stated below should be submitted by the end of March, 2008.
Application, Study and Budget Plan Form
Recommendation letters
Resume or CV
English proficiency
Please find the attached files for further information.If you have any questions, please contact the address and number in attached file.
Sincerely, Yeong-Wan SeoSecretary General of UNEP Eco-Peace Leadership Center
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Training Opportunity
Exciting Opportunity for Civil Society Capacity Enhancement
First Social Accountability School in Cambodia
The World Bank in Cambodia, through its Program to Enhance Capacity in Social Accountability (PECSA) will conduct the first Social Accountability School in Cambodia from March 24 through April 12, 2008.
Two Leading International Institutes from the Asia region will bring together their practical experience in social accountability and good governance to share with Cambodian practitioners throughout a three week training course. The curriculum of the first Social Accountability School will cover general issues of CSO contribution to accountability and good governance in the first week; weeks 2 and 3 will concentrate on these issues as they relate to Land and Natural Resource Management
This is the first of a series of Social Accountability Schools that will be organized by PECSA program throughout the next two years. This training program will lead to awarding a recognized Diploma and possibly a Master Degree in Social Accountability and Governance to the participants who wish to pursue such a degree. Participants may choose to participate for one week, two weeks or three weeks training program depending on their interest and availability.
WHO ARE ELIGIBLE?
Participants from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs): (NGOs, CBOs, citizens' associations, trade unions, media professionals) and relevant Governmental Institutions from local, provincial and national level are eligible for this training program.
Application and selection process will be announced by mid- February 2008. If you are interested and intend to apply for this course, please save the date and mark it in your calendar.
For more information about our program please visit our websites: www.worldbank.org.kh (for Khmer) or www.worldbank.org/kh (for English) and or contact: Mr. Kol Preap, at: kpreap@worldbank.org
PECSA is a World Bank-funded program in Cambodia which has been endorsed by the Ministry of Interior. PECSA strives to enhance the capacity of CSOs through training them in the use of social accountability approaches and tools; adapting global accountability practices to the Cambodian context; providing grants to develop and pilot social accountability practices and supporting enhanced information-sharing and networking among social accountability practitioners.
First Social Accountability School in Cambodia
The World Bank in Cambodia, through its Program to Enhance Capacity in Social Accountability (PECSA) will conduct the first Social Accountability School in Cambodia from March 24 through April 12, 2008.
Two Leading International Institutes from the Asia region will bring together their practical experience in social accountability and good governance to share with Cambodian practitioners throughout a three week training course. The curriculum of the first Social Accountability School will cover general issues of CSO contribution to accountability and good governance in the first week; weeks 2 and 3 will concentrate on these issues as they relate to Land and Natural Resource Management
This is the first of a series of Social Accountability Schools that will be organized by PECSA program throughout the next two years. This training program will lead to awarding a recognized Diploma and possibly a Master Degree in Social Accountability and Governance to the participants who wish to pursue such a degree. Participants may choose to participate for one week, two weeks or three weeks training program depending on their interest and availability.
WHO ARE ELIGIBLE?
Participants from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs): (NGOs, CBOs, citizens' associations, trade unions, media professionals) and relevant Governmental Institutions from local, provincial and national level are eligible for this training program.
Application and selection process will be announced by mid- February 2008. If you are interested and intend to apply for this course, please save the date and mark it in your calendar.
For more information about our program please visit our websites: www.worldbank.org.kh (for Khmer) or www.worldbank.org/kh (for English) and or contact: Mr. Kol Preap, at: kpreap@worldbank.org
PECSA is a World Bank-funded program in Cambodia which has been endorsed by the Ministry of Interior. PECSA strives to enhance the capacity of CSOs through training them in the use of social accountability approaches and tools; adapting global accountability practices to the Cambodian context; providing grants to develop and pilot social accountability practices and supporting enhanced information-sharing and networking among social accountability practitioners.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Request for Accreditation of ADB annual Meeting
Request for Accreditation
ADB Annual Meeting is not open to the public. All participants must be invited to attend the Annual Meeting. To facilitate accreditation and registration, the participants are divided into different categories:
Member Country Participants
Observers
NGOs and civil society
Media
Financial Institutions and Banks
Consulting and Contractor Firms
ADB Former Employees
Other Guests
Member Country Participants
ADB member countries send a delegation of government officials to attend the meeting. The participants of this group are decided by each member government, not ADB. If you have any questions about delegations, please contact the respective office of the ADB Governor in your country.
Observers
This category of participants covers accredited intergovernmental organizations (such as World Bank and UN agencies) and government officials from countries planning to apply for ADB membership. If you work for either group and are interested in participating, please contact the head of your organization, or the ministry concerned. View to see the list of accredited organizations and countries [PDF].
NGOs and civil society
ADB welcomes the participation of civil society organizations (CSOs) including international NGOs, labor unions, foundations, professional associations, and other nonprofit organizations. CSOs attending for the first time are required to go through an accreditation process that is coordinated by ADB's NGO and Civil Society Center (NGOC). Learn more about CSO accreditation.
MediaMembers of the press with valid credentials are invited to attend open sessions of the meeting. To apply for accreditation, please complete the online form. Register online
Financial Institutions and Banks
The accredited financial institutions and banks have existing relationship with ADB. You can click here to review the list of accredited institutions. If you work in any of the listed institutions, please contact the head office to receive a copy of the invitation. If your company wishes to establish a relationship with ADB, please complete this form.
Consulting and Contractor Firms
If you are a registered consulting or contractor company with an existing contract with ADB, or have been short-listed for the last 2 years, please complete this form.
ADB Former Employees
Members of the Association of Former Employees of ADB are invited to attend the meeting. Please contact Mr. M. Ikramullah Khan, Executive Secretary, AFE-ADB at tel. +63 2 6325196/5556, or e-mail: mkhan@adb.org.
Other Guests
If you do not belong to any of the categories listed above, please complete this form.
For inquiries, e-mail:annualmeeting@adb.org
ADB Annual Meeting is not open to the public. All participants must be invited to attend the Annual Meeting. To facilitate accreditation and registration, the participants are divided into different categories:
Member Country Participants
Observers
NGOs and civil society
Media
Financial Institutions and Banks
Consulting and Contractor Firms
ADB Former Employees
Other Guests
Member Country Participants
ADB member countries send a delegation of government officials to attend the meeting. The participants of this group are decided by each member government, not ADB. If you have any questions about delegations, please contact the respective office of the ADB Governor in your country.
Observers
This category of participants covers accredited intergovernmental organizations (such as World Bank and UN agencies) and government officials from countries planning to apply for ADB membership. If you work for either group and are interested in participating, please contact the head of your organization, or the ministry concerned. View to see the list of accredited organizations and countries [PDF].
NGOs and civil society
ADB welcomes the participation of civil society organizations (CSOs) including international NGOs, labor unions, foundations, professional associations, and other nonprofit organizations. CSOs attending for the first time are required to go through an accreditation process that is coordinated by ADB's NGO and Civil Society Center (NGOC). Learn more about CSO accreditation.
MediaMembers of the press with valid credentials are invited to attend open sessions of the meeting. To apply for accreditation, please complete the online form. Register online
Financial Institutions and Banks
The accredited financial institutions and banks have existing relationship with ADB. You can click here to review the list of accredited institutions. If you work in any of the listed institutions, please contact the head office to receive a copy of the invitation. If your company wishes to establish a relationship with ADB, please complete this form.
Consulting and Contractor Firms
If you are a registered consulting or contractor company with an existing contract with ADB, or have been short-listed for the last 2 years, please complete this form.
ADB Former Employees
Members of the Association of Former Employees of ADB are invited to attend the meeting. Please contact Mr. M. Ikramullah Khan, Executive Secretary, AFE-ADB at tel. +63 2 6325196/5556, or e-mail: mkhan@adb.org.
Other Guests
If you do not belong to any of the categories listed above, please complete this form.
For inquiries, e-mail:annualmeeting@adb.org
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
FOR YOUR ENDORSEMENT
CALL FOR REVISION OF ADB SAFEGUARD POLICY STATEMENT PRIOR TO CONTINUED PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCES
Unacceptable Weakening of ADB Environmental and Social standards
Concerns regarding Proposed Continuation of Public Consultations Based on Deeply Flawed and Incomplete Documentation NESSIM N. J. AHMADDirector, Environment and Social Safeguards,Asian Development Bank
February ** 2008
Dear Nessim,
It is with a high level of concern and disappointment that we write this letter to you regarding the on-going public consultations on the current draft (October 2007) of the Safeguard Policy Statement and associated documents. Those of us who have engaged in the Asian Development Bank’s Safeguard Policy Update process during the past couple of years have done so on a good faith basis, taking at face value the commitment by ADB management that the new Safeguard Policy Statement would not entail the weakening of ADB safeguards. Unfortunately, the draft SPS presented by your office for public comment in October actively promotes a substantial weakening of most of the existing ADB safeguard protections. We are writing to inform you that the draft issued in October 2007 is unacceptable and is not suitable as a basis for public consultation. Further, the process of consultations as currently designed and undertaken is inappropriate and exclusive. We urge the ADB to withdraw this draft and re-write it - prior to continued public consultation - to comply with existing ADB environmental and social protection measures and international good practices. As such, we call for a postponement of the consultation process until such time as a draft which does not involve the weakening of existing standards is presented to the public. There are three points in particular about the consultation process that we would like to raise which have steadily increased our concern since our last collective communication with you in November 2007. Initially, the draft was released (without any translations) an unacceptably short time before the first consultations, and this lack of an adequate time period for comments made it impossible for our diverse coalition of groups to conduct detailed analysis before the consultations. Secondly, experience of our colleagues at the consultations held to date has failed to provide reassurance that critiques provided are being taken on board and changes will be made. Thirdly, despite our detailed requests provided to you to improve the consultation process in various ways, the agenda of the consultations remains strongly weighted towards presentations by the ADB and does not represent an effective opportunity for affected communities to engage. We would also like to remind you that during the NGO panel discussion on the SPS process held during the ADB’s Annual General Meeting in Kyoto in May 2007, you made public assurances, recorded on videotape, that the ADB is committed to ensuring that there would be no weakening of the existing safeguard policies as a result of the SPS process. Japanese Ministry of Finance officials made the same guarantee to Japanese NGOs. Our organizations and colleagues have spent a great deal of time analysing the lengthy SPS document and we have articulated a large number of collective concerns regarding the content and context of the current draft policy. We are clear that the content of the draft is regressive and damaging, reflecting a substantial weakening of existing ADB environmental and social policies in violation of the Bank’s stated commitment to upholding – at a minimum – existing standards. Enclosed with this letter are detailed critiques that our organizations and colleagues have put together, to seek an effective response from you on these criticisms and to clearly articulate our difficulties with the current draft. Due to the criticisms within these documents and our criticisms of the consultation process, we believe that both the draft and the process of consultation are so compromised that we do not see any value in the continuation of the process of public consultation on this version of the SPS. A good number of our organizations have strongly advocated with you and worked on details of the consultation process since the SPU process began in 2005. However our interest in the consultations was based on your assertion and the Bank’s guarantee that the consultation draft would contain improved safeguard provisions. Given our interest in ensuring the ADB adopts effective and world standard safeguards and realizing after our analysis that the October 2007 draft not only reneges on previously made commitments but also contains other substantial flaws, we have decided not to participate in the current consultations. We suggest that the ADB rewrite the October 2007 consultation draft of the Safeguard Policy Statement and release it for public review with sufficient lead time so as to enable project affected communities, civil society organisations and governments to engage in a substantive discussion on progressive and effective safeguard provisions. We will not participate any longer in the process of consultation until such a document exists as we do not view these consultations as effective or meaningful. We therefore also urge that the consultations be halted until such time as an acceptable draft document that meets at least current ADB safeguard standards and best international practices at peer institutions, is circulated. We have provided our SPS critiques and copies of this letter to our respective governments and to the President and Board of the ADB for action. We look forward to hearing your response to this letter.
Regards, Signed CC:Ursula Schafer-Preuss, Vice-President, Knowledge Management and Sustainable Development Liqun Jin, Vice-President, Operations 1C. Lawrence Greenwood, Jr., Vice President, Operations 2.Bindu Lohani, Vice President, Finance and Administration. Encl: Summary Critique of SPS October 2007 Consultation DraftDetailed Analyses of the Environmental, Involuntary Resettlement and Indigenous Peoples Safeguards
Asim Nawaz Khan -Umeedenao Citizen Community Board, Pakistan
Sergei Vosin - EcoCentre of Tajikistan, Tajikistan
Dilena Pathragoda - Centre for Environmental Justice, Sri Lanka
Suranjan Kodithuwakku – Sri Lanka Green Movement, Sri Lanka
Anna Dreyzina - Oil Workers Rights Protection Organization Public Union Azerbaijan Ulrike Bey - Asienhaus, Germany
Hemantha Withanage - NGO Forum on ADB, Philippines
Rustam Murzakhanov- NGO Environmental Law Center "Armon" (Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan)
Souparna Lahiri -National Forum of Forest People & Forest Workers(NFFPFW)
Titi Soentoro- Nadi, IndonesiaGururaja Budhya- Urban Research Centre, Mangalore, India Dang Ngoc Quang- Rural Development Services Centre, Vietnam
Zakir Kibria -Bangla Praxis, Bangladesh
Mangaraj Panda - Orissa Marine, Resource Conservation Consortium(OMRCC), India
Gevorg Arakelyan - Association "For Sustainable Human Development, Armania
Mekong Alumni Network - Chiang Mai University, Thailand
Souparna Lahiri - On behalf of ACT (Affected Citizens of Teesta), Sikkim, India
Yuki Tanabe -Japan Center for a Sustainable Environment and Society (JACSES), Japan
Monday, February 4, 2008
Job announcement for The Asia Foundation
*2 positions **โดย :* The Asia Foundation *เมื่อ : *4/02/2008 04:14 PM
The Asia Foundation is a non-governmental organization that has been operating in Thailand for over 50 years, committed to the development of a peaceful, prosperous, just, and open Asia-Pacific region. The Foundation is seeking professional, qualified Thai nationals for two Program Officers based in its Bangkok office.
1*. PROGRAM OFFICER FOR LAW AND GOVERNENCE PROGRAMS FOR LAO PDR*
Responsibilities: To develop and manage programs in the areas of law, governance, gender-based violence and related fields in Lao PDR
*Specific Qualifications: * - Excellent written and spoken skills in English and Thai; Lao language is an advantage - Willing to travel to Lao PDR as required
*2. PROGRAM OFFICER FOR SOUTHERN THAILAND PROGRAMS*
Responsibilities: To develop and manage programs in the areas of development and conflict resolution in Southern Thailand
*Specific Qualifications: * - Excellent written and spoken skills in English and Thai; Southern dialect or Yawi is an advantage - Willing to travel in the South as required
*Qualifications for both positions: * - At least a B.A. in political science, economics, international studies, or related field is essential; higher degree a plus - Minimum 8 years experience working with local and international NGOs - Demonstrated experience and strong knowledge of program development, project management, monitoring, and evaluation - Good interpersonal skills and team work
Please send a cover letter specifying the position to which you are applying with your resume by email to: tafthail...@asiafound.org by Thursday *February 14, 2008. *(Only short-listed candidates will be notified).
The Asia Foundation is a non-governmental organization that has been operating in Thailand for over 50 years, committed to the development of a peaceful, prosperous, just, and open Asia-Pacific region. The Foundation is seeking professional, qualified Thai nationals for two Program Officers based in its Bangkok office.
1*. PROGRAM OFFICER FOR LAW AND GOVERNENCE PROGRAMS FOR LAO PDR*
Responsibilities: To develop and manage programs in the areas of law, governance, gender-based violence and related fields in Lao PDR
*Specific Qualifications: * - Excellent written and spoken skills in English and Thai; Lao language is an advantage - Willing to travel to Lao PDR as required
*2. PROGRAM OFFICER FOR SOUTHERN THAILAND PROGRAMS*
Responsibilities: To develop and manage programs in the areas of development and conflict resolution in Southern Thailand
*Specific Qualifications: * - Excellent written and spoken skills in English and Thai; Southern dialect or Yawi is an advantage - Willing to travel in the South as required
*Qualifications for both positions: * - At least a B.A. in political science, economics, international studies, or related field is essential; higher degree a plus - Minimum 8 years experience working with local and international NGOs - Demonstrated experience and strong knowledge of program development, project management, monitoring, and evaluation - Good interpersonal skills and team work
Please send a cover letter specifying the position to which you are applying with your resume by email to: tafthail...@asiafound.org by Thursday *February 14, 2008. *(Only short-listed candidates will be notified).
Intern, East Asia (Southeast Asia + Northeast Asia) Program
*Intern, East Asia (Southeast Asia + Northeast Asia) Program **โดย :* FORUM-ASIA *เมื่อ : *31/01/2008 12:11 AM
*Position* Intern, East Asia (Southeast Asia + Northeast Asia) Program
*Location *Bangkok, Thailand
*Employment Duration *Mid of February – Mid of July 2008 (six months)
*Allowance* 5,000 baht/ month (after the 2nd month)
*Closing date* 8 February 2008
*Interview Dates *Between 12 April 2008 to 15 April 2008
*About the Organisation* FORUM-ASIA is a membership-based human rights organisation, founded in 1991. FORUM-ASIA presently has 40 member organisations in 15 countries in South Asia, Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia. Its regional Secretariat is located in Bangkok, Thailand. FORUM-ASIA has been an NGO in Consultative Status with the UN ECOSOC since 1994.
East Asia Programme (EAP) carries the objective of the Country Programme Branch (CPB) to take a lead in strengthening the human rights movements in East Asia through effective coordination at the national and sub-regional level. The programme focuses on the advancement of civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights, including the right to development, of all peoples particularly those who are marginalised and vulnerable in political and economic development processes. EAP covers 17 countries, both in Southeast Asia (SEA) and Northeast Asia (NEA): Brunei Darussalam, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste, and Vietnam (SEA); and China (including Hong Kong), DPRK, Japan, Mongolia, South Korea, Taiwan and Tibet (NEA). There are five programmatic areas that EAP is prioritising over the next three years: (1) enhancing membership and partnership in the EA sub-region, (2) assisting country campaigns and fact-finding missions, (3) strengthening regional advocacy, including ASEAN, (4) building capacity of the members, and (5) maintaining network and coalition-building.
*Duties and Responsibilities of the EA Intern* Within the above objective and priority areas, the intern will work on a full-time basis under the supervision of Programme Officers in EAP to provide:
(1) Daily Monitoring on the Human Rights (DMHR) situation in East Asia. Monitoring reports will cover democratisation, globalisation, peace and security issues, ethnic minorities, indigenous rights, poverty and development issues, women's rights, child rights and more. The intern is also responsible to maintain the filing arrangement for DMHR. From daily monitoring, the intern will consolidate a monthly analysis of the situation within the EAP teamwork to come up with "the reflection of the month". (2) Assistance in drafting statements, urgent appeals, press releases and commentaries related to the selected human rights issues agreed within the EAP team. (3) Assistance in organising forums, preparing lobby missions and coordinating the meetings with other programmes in the Secretariat. (4) Rapid and short-term research based on the request by the team. (5) Support in responding to emergency needs in the country, if necessary. (6) Assistance in preparing information, presentations, publications and articles in collaboration with Information and Communication Programme (ICP).
*Basic Qualifications and Competencies* Candidates are required to have a Bachelor degree in political science, international relations or development studies and/or Southeast Asia studies or Northeast Asia studies. Equivalent work experience in non-governmental organisations or international organisations is desired. Able to communicate in one or more East Asian languages is preferred.
*Core Competencies* 1. Proficiency in English 2. Excellent written and oral communication skills 3. Demonstrated competence with Microsoft Office and related database applications and ability to learn new software programs 4. Strong administrative and organisational skills with a demonstrated ability to set priorities among multiple tasks and requests and make decisions about how to handle them, take initiative, and use sound judgment 5. Ability to analyse and solve problems and research work-related issues 6. Ability to take responsibility for assigned tasks and to achieve intended results 7. Ability to work as a member of a team that has multiple sites of operation and work effectively in multi-cultural settings 8. Understanding of and commitment to the philosophy and work of FORUM-ASIA
*Stipend and Leaves* The intern will receive a stipend of 5,000 Thai Baht per month for housing allowance from the second month onwards if s/he can pass the first month probation. Intern is entitled to local public holidays and one day leave per month.
*Application Procedures* Interested applicants are requested to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae with references, a filled FORUM-ASIA Internship application form ( http://www.forum-asia.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2...) and a writing sample in English to interns...@forum-asia.org. Please use "EA Internship" as the subject of your email. Only complete applications will be reviewed. Deadline for submission of applications is on 8 February 2008, 5pm (Bangkok time).
***************************************** FORUM-ASIA Secretariate 246 Times Square Building, 12 Fl., Room 12-01 Sukhumvit Road, Between Soi 12-14 Klongton, Klongtoey Bangkok, Thailand
+66 (0)2 653 2940-2 +66 (0)2 653 2943
*Position* Intern, East Asia (Southeast Asia + Northeast Asia) Program
*Location *Bangkok, Thailand
*Employment Duration *Mid of February – Mid of July 2008 (six months)
*Allowance* 5,000 baht/ month (after the 2nd month)
*Closing date* 8 February 2008
*Interview Dates *Between 12 April 2008 to 15 April 2008
*About the Organisation* FORUM-ASIA is a membership-based human rights organisation, founded in 1991. FORUM-ASIA presently has 40 member organisations in 15 countries in South Asia, Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia. Its regional Secretariat is located in Bangkok, Thailand. FORUM-ASIA has been an NGO in Consultative Status with the UN ECOSOC since 1994.
East Asia Programme (EAP) carries the objective of the Country Programme Branch (CPB) to take a lead in strengthening the human rights movements in East Asia through effective coordination at the national and sub-regional level. The programme focuses on the advancement of civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights, including the right to development, of all peoples particularly those who are marginalised and vulnerable in political and economic development processes. EAP covers 17 countries, both in Southeast Asia (SEA) and Northeast Asia (NEA): Brunei Darussalam, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste, and Vietnam (SEA); and China (including Hong Kong), DPRK, Japan, Mongolia, South Korea, Taiwan and Tibet (NEA). There are five programmatic areas that EAP is prioritising over the next three years: (1) enhancing membership and partnership in the EA sub-region, (2) assisting country campaigns and fact-finding missions, (3) strengthening regional advocacy, including ASEAN, (4) building capacity of the members, and (5) maintaining network and coalition-building.
*Duties and Responsibilities of the EA Intern* Within the above objective and priority areas, the intern will work on a full-time basis under the supervision of Programme Officers in EAP to provide:
(1) Daily Monitoring on the Human Rights (DMHR) situation in East Asia. Monitoring reports will cover democratisation, globalisation, peace and security issues, ethnic minorities, indigenous rights, poverty and development issues, women's rights, child rights and more. The intern is also responsible to maintain the filing arrangement for DMHR. From daily monitoring, the intern will consolidate a monthly analysis of the situation within the EAP teamwork to come up with "the reflection of the month". (2) Assistance in drafting statements, urgent appeals, press releases and commentaries related to the selected human rights issues agreed within the EAP team. (3) Assistance in organising forums, preparing lobby missions and coordinating the meetings with other programmes in the Secretariat. (4) Rapid and short-term research based on the request by the team. (5) Support in responding to emergency needs in the country, if necessary. (6) Assistance in preparing information, presentations, publications and articles in collaboration with Information and Communication Programme (ICP).
*Basic Qualifications and Competencies* Candidates are required to have a Bachelor degree in political science, international relations or development studies and/or Southeast Asia studies or Northeast Asia studies. Equivalent work experience in non-governmental organisations or international organisations is desired. Able to communicate in one or more East Asian languages is preferred.
*Core Competencies* 1. Proficiency in English 2. Excellent written and oral communication skills 3. Demonstrated competence with Microsoft Office and related database applications and ability to learn new software programs 4. Strong administrative and organisational skills with a demonstrated ability to set priorities among multiple tasks and requests and make decisions about how to handle them, take initiative, and use sound judgment 5. Ability to analyse and solve problems and research work-related issues 6. Ability to take responsibility for assigned tasks and to achieve intended results 7. Ability to work as a member of a team that has multiple sites of operation and work effectively in multi-cultural settings 8. Understanding of and commitment to the philosophy and work of FORUM-ASIA
*Stipend and Leaves* The intern will receive a stipend of 5,000 Thai Baht per month for housing allowance from the second month onwards if s/he can pass the first month probation. Intern is entitled to local public holidays and one day leave per month.
*Application Procedures* Interested applicants are requested to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae with references, a filled FORUM-ASIA Internship application form ( http://www.forum-asia.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2...) and a writing sample in English to interns...@forum-asia.org. Please use "EA Internship" as the subject of your email. Only complete applications will be reviewed. Deadline for submission of applications is on 8 February 2008, 5pm (Bangkok time).
***************************************** FORUM-ASIA Secretariate 246 Times Square Building, 12 Fl., Room 12-01 Sukhumvit Road, Between Soi 12-14 Klongton, Klongtoey Bangkok, Thailand
+66 (0)2 653 2940-2 +66 (0)2 653 2943
Friday, February 1, 2008
Mekong ICT camp RE_OPEN the call for application - deadline on 14 February
Dear friends,
Good news!!
As we still have some enough budget to expand an opportunity for other 20 friends who working on service and advocacy in NGOs, educational organisations, NGO resource
centres, community centres, health information organisations, Media agencies and Alternative media organizations to participate in this Mekong ICT camp. Therefore we would like to re-open the call for application: 20 participants. The dead line is 14 February, 2008. It would be appreciated that you could help us disseminating the "call for application" to your friends' network. below is the detail information; ------------------------------------- Call For applications: Mekong ICT camp: the “Capacity Development of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for Media and Non-profit organization practitioners” in the Mekong Sub-Region February 25th -29th, 2008 Thammasart University Learning resort, Pattaya, Chonburi province, Thailand Dear Friends, We, the Thai Fund Foundation(TFF), The Open Society Institute(OSI), Southeast Asian for e-Media (SEACeM), Friedrich Naumann Stiftung (FNS) and some other alliances, are pleased to inform you about the upcoming sub-regional ICT camp: the Capacity Development of ICT for Media and NGO practitioners in the Mekong sub-region to be held on February 25th – 29th , 2008 at Thammasart Learning resort, Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand. The focus of the ICT camp will be on four main topics: 1) information management, 2) E-advocacy, 3) computer network for social development 4) promotion of the use of open source software and also a widespread of ICT network in the Mekong Subregion as well. The event will last five days, emphasizing on providing a process where through participation, technical experts, local media and NGO workers can exchange their experiences so that mutual understanding and cooperation will be materialized and result in an effective use of the ICT. In this ICT camp, not only provide you working on technological process, but also having a touch of human network are included.
In this occasion, we are cordially opening to representing media and NGO workers in Mekong sub-region countries i.e. Cambodia, Laos, Burma, Vietnam and Thailand toapply for attending this ICT camp. Development work and gender balance must be also taken into account. Please see: www.ict.or.th/mekong-ict-camp for more details. The DEADLINE for sending the completed application: http://www.ict.or.th/q=mekong-ict-camp#application is 14 February, 2008. If you need additional information, please feel free to contact:Mr.Klaikong Vaidhyakarn, Mekong ICT Camp coordinatorThai Fund Foundation2044/23 New Petchaburi Road, Bangkapi,Huaykwang, Bangkok 10320 Thailand.Mobile. (66) 81310-4807Tel. (66) 2314-4112-3#508, (66) 2318-3959Fax. (66) 2718-1850, (66) 2314-4112-3#506E-mail. mekongict4d@ict.or.thwebsite. www.tff.or.th, www.thaingo.org, www.ict.or.th Look forward to welcoming you to the ICT camp: the Capacity Development of ICT for Media and Non-profit Organization practitioners in the Mekong Sub-Region!
-- Klaikong VaidhyakarnICT Team Leader
Thai Fund Foundation2044/23 New Petchaburi Road, Bangkapi,Huaykwang, Bangkok 10320 Thailand.Mobile. (66) 81310-4807Tel. (66) 2314-4112-3#508, (66) 2318-3959Fax. (66) 2718-1850, (66) 2314-4112-3#506E-mail. klaikong@thaingo.orgwebsite. www.tff.or.th, www.thaingo.org, www.ict.or.th_______________________________________________Mekongictcamp mailing listMekongictcamp@mekongict4d.orghttp://202.8.85.234/mailman/listinfo/mekongictcamp
Good news!!
As we still have some enough budget to expand an opportunity for other 20 friends who working on service and advocacy in NGOs, educational organisations, NGO resource
centres, community centres, health information organisations, Media agencies and Alternative media organizations to participate in this Mekong ICT camp. Therefore we would like to re-open the call for application: 20 participants. The dead line is 14 February, 2008. It would be appreciated that you could help us disseminating the "call for application" to your friends' network. below is the detail information; ------------------------------------- Call For applications: Mekong ICT camp: the “Capacity Development of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for Media and Non-profit organization practitioners” in the Mekong Sub-Region February 25th -29th, 2008 Thammasart University Learning resort, Pattaya, Chonburi province, Thailand Dear Friends, We, the Thai Fund Foundation(TFF), The Open Society Institute(OSI), Southeast Asian for e-Media (SEACeM), Friedrich Naumann Stiftung (FNS) and some other alliances, are pleased to inform you about the upcoming sub-regional ICT camp: the Capacity Development of ICT for Media and NGO practitioners in the Mekong sub-region to be held on February 25th – 29th , 2008 at Thammasart Learning resort, Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand. The focus of the ICT camp will be on four main topics: 1) information management, 2) E-advocacy, 3) computer network for social development 4) promotion of the use of open source software and also a widespread of ICT network in the Mekong Subregion as well. The event will last five days, emphasizing on providing a process where through participation, technical experts, local media and NGO workers can exchange their experiences so that mutual understanding and cooperation will be materialized and result in an effective use of the ICT. In this ICT camp, not only provide you working on technological process, but also having a touch of human network are included.
In this occasion, we are cordially opening to representing media and NGO workers in Mekong sub-region countries i.e. Cambodia, Laos, Burma, Vietnam and Thailand toapply for attending this ICT camp. Development work and gender balance must be also taken into account. Please see: www.ict.or.th/mekong-ict-camp for more details. The DEADLINE for sending the completed application: http://www.ict.or.th/q=mekong-ict-camp#application is 14 February, 2008. If you need additional information, please feel free to contact:Mr.Klaikong Vaidhyakarn, Mekong ICT Camp coordinatorThai Fund Foundation2044/23 New Petchaburi Road, Bangkapi,Huaykwang, Bangkok 10320 Thailand.Mobile. (66) 81310-4807Tel. (66) 2314-4112-3#508, (66) 2318-3959Fax. (66) 2718-1850, (66) 2314-4112-3#506E-mail. mekongict4d@ict.or.thwebsite. www.tff.or.th, www.thaingo.org, www.ict.or.th Look forward to welcoming you to the ICT camp: the Capacity Development of ICT for Media and Non-profit Organization practitioners in the Mekong Sub-Region!
-- Klaikong VaidhyakarnICT Team Leader
Thai Fund Foundation2044/23 New Petchaburi Road, Bangkapi,Huaykwang, Bangkok 10320 Thailand.Mobile. (66) 81310-4807Tel. (66) 2314-4112-3#508, (66) 2318-3959Fax. (66) 2718-1850, (66) 2314-4112-3#506E-mail. klaikong@thaingo.orgwebsite. www.tff.or.th, www.thaingo.org, www.ict.or.th_______________________________________________Mekongictcamp mailing listMekongictcamp@mekongict4d.orghttp://202.8.85.234/mailman/listinfo/mekongictcamp
Thursday, January 31, 2008
IRCSET Scholarship for Master and Doctorate
IRCSET Scholarship for Master and Doctorate
IRCSET's Embark Postgraduate Research Scholarship Scheme is designed for either Masters or Doctorate level researchers in the sciences, engineering or technology.The Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering & Technology invites applications for funding from intending postgraduate researchers under the Embark Postgraduate Research Scholarship Scheme.The programme will fund up to 165 Masters or Doctorate level researchers in the sciences, engineering and technology.The scheme is open to candidates worldwide with a number of scholarships also being available to exceptional candidates from non EU member states.A number of additional scholarships will be jointly funded by industry as part of IRCSET Enterprise Partnership Scheme (see below for details). This scheme fosters mutually beneficial collaboration between the academic and commercial research sectors. Enterprise Partnership Scheme Within this call, a number of Enterprise Partnership Scheme Awards are also being offered in conjunction with participating industry partners. The Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and Technology gratefully acknowledges the valuable participation of these organisations.
Applicants can indicate on their application if in addition to consideration for an Embark Initiative award they also wish to be considered for an Enterprise Partnership Scheme scholarship.
Through the Enterprise Partnership Scheme scholars are co-funded by both IRCSET and an Enterprise Partner. Industry's participation and co-funding role has enabled IRCSET to support many more young researchers in Irish research bodies.
The researcher receives the same financial support as a postgraduate scholar under the normal Embark Initiative Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme. However, they also benefit from expert industry supervision and gain experience of research in an industrial environment. Under the Postgraduate Research Scholarship Scheme, funding of €24,003 is provided for each of three years for Doctorate level research (total funding of €72,009) and one year (€24,003) for Masters level research.
Of the €24,003 maximum per annum available to Masters and Doctorate students, €16,002 goes directly to the student with the remainder available to fund other forms of support such as fees, appropriate travel and other expenses. Read more:http://Cambodiajobs.blogspot.com/2008/02/ircset-scholarship-for-master-and.html
IRCSET Scholarship for Master and Doctorate
IRCSET Scholarship for Master and Doctorate
IRCSET's Embark Postgraduate Research Scholarship Scheme is designed for either Masters or Doctorate level researchers in the sciences, engineering or technology.The Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering & Technology invites applications for funding from intending postgraduate researchers under the Embark Postgraduate Research Scholarship Scheme.The programme will fund up to 165 Masters or Doctorate level researchers in the sciences, engineering and technology.The scheme is open to candidates worldwide with a number of scholarships also being available to exceptional candidates from non EU member states.A number of additional scholarships will be jointly funded by industry as part of IRCSET Enterprise Partnership Scheme (see below for details). This scheme fosters mutually beneficial collaboration between the academic and commercial research sectors. Enterprise Partnership Scheme Within this call, a number of Enterprise Partnership Scheme Awards are also being offered in conjunction with participating industry partners. The Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and Technology gratefully acknowledges the valuable participation of these organisations.
Applicants can indicate on their application if in addition to consideration for an Embark Initiative award they also wish to be considered for an Enterprise Partnership Scheme scholarship.
Through the Enterprise Partnership Scheme scholars are co-funded by both IRCSET and an Enterprise Partner. Industry's participation and co-funding role has enabled IRCSET to support many more young researchers in Irish research bodies.
The researcher receives the same financial support as a postgraduate scholar under the normal Embark Initiative Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme. However, they also benefit from expert industry supervision and gain experience of research in an industrial environment. Under the Postgraduate Research Scholarship Scheme, funding of €24,003 is provided for each of three years for Doctorate level research (total funding of €72,009) and one year (€24,003) for Masters level research.
Of the €24,003 maximum per annum available to Masters and Doctorate students, €16,002 goes directly to the student with the remainder available to fund other forms of support such as fees, appropriate travel and other expenses. Read more:http://Cambodiajobs.blogspot.com/2008/02/ircset-scholarship-for-master-and.html
Monday, January 28, 2008
Women's Leadership Scholarship Program
Women's Leadership Scholarship
The Women's Leadership Scholarship program creates educational opportunities for women activists, grassroots leaders and organizers from the Global South and/or from indigenous groups. This scholarship supports study, research and leadership training to assist women in their pursuit of solutions to the critical social, environmental, health and economic problems facing their countries and communities.The selection committee awards four to eight scholarships a year and recipients may enroll in programs of study at accredited institutions worldwide that cover a range of human rights and development issues at the non-doctoral graduate level including gender, reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, child exploitation, human trafficking, infant and maternal mortality, conflict resolution, environmental justice, global fair trade, agro-ecology and sustainable development. Scholarship recipients are awarded $25,000 per academic year for a maximum of two years, helping recipients meet the costs of tuition, fees, books, educational supplies, housing, maintenance and travel to and from the home country and the educational institution.
Eligible candidates include women leaders from the Global South and/or from indigenous groups who also meet the following criteria:Commitment to grassroots organizing and the needs of their communities Proof of a bachelor's degree or equivalent or a higher degree Three years work experience dealing with critical human rights concerns or other social, educational or health conditions negatively affecting their communities Acceptance into a non-doctoral graduate program at an accredited university for full-time study/research related to their work experience in human rights, sustainable development and/or public health Evidence of financial need for educational support Intention to return to their home countries to work, utilizing training and research acquired in the study program Pre-applications for the 2008-2009 academic year will be available from January 1, 2008 through March 14, 2008 on the WLS website or by request from info@nativeleaders.org.
Visit the Women's Leadership Scholarship website to learn more and apply: http://www.nativeleaders.org/how.html------ End of Forwarded Message -- -- Commission on the Status of Women1303 J St Ste 400Sacramento CA 95814-2900916-445-3173916-322-9466 Faxwww.women.ca.gov
The Women's Leadership Scholarship program creates educational opportunities for women activists, grassroots leaders and organizers from the Global South and/or from indigenous groups. This scholarship supports study, research and leadership training to assist women in their pursuit of solutions to the critical social, environmental, health and economic problems facing their countries and communities.The selection committee awards four to eight scholarships a year and recipients may enroll in programs of study at accredited institutions worldwide that cover a range of human rights and development issues at the non-doctoral graduate level including gender, reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, child exploitation, human trafficking, infant and maternal mortality, conflict resolution, environmental justice, global fair trade, agro-ecology and sustainable development. Scholarship recipients are awarded $25,000 per academic year for a maximum of two years, helping recipients meet the costs of tuition, fees, books, educational supplies, housing, maintenance and travel to and from the home country and the educational institution.
Eligible candidates include women leaders from the Global South and/or from indigenous groups who also meet the following criteria:Commitment to grassroots organizing and the needs of their communities Proof of a bachelor's degree or equivalent or a higher degree Three years work experience dealing with critical human rights concerns or other social, educational or health conditions negatively affecting their communities Acceptance into a non-doctoral graduate program at an accredited university for full-time study/research related to their work experience in human rights, sustainable development and/or public health Evidence of financial need for educational support Intention to return to their home countries to work, utilizing training and research acquired in the study program Pre-applications for the 2008-2009 academic year will be available from January 1, 2008 through March 14, 2008 on the WLS website or by request from info@nativeleaders.org.
Visit the Women's Leadership Scholarship website to learn more and apply: http://www.nativeleaders.org/how.html------ End of Forwarded Message -- -- Commission on the Status of Women1303 J St Ste 400Sacramento CA 95814-2900916-445-3173916-322-9466 Faxwww.women.ca.gov
Invitation to Apply for the 2008 Integrated Water Resources Management International Training Programme
"2008 Integrated Water Resources Management Advanced International Training Programme"
The objective of the training programme is to support and stimulate the development of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in the participants’ home countries, and to encourage the participants to involve in and contribute to networking on IWRM. The programme consists of 5.5 weeks of scheduled training distributed in two different phases, 3.5 weeks training in Stockholm, Sweden, from August 11–September 2, 2008, and 2 weeks training in Lao PDR, from November 17–28, 2008. In addition to the scheduled training, participants will undertake an Individual Project, on a part time basis in their home organisations, starting 6 weeks before the training in Sweden and to be completed within 8 weeks after the regional training. Please see the attached documentation for more information or visit www.siwi.org or www.rambollnatura.se. On behalf of Ramboll Natura AB, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, the International Water Management Institute, and SIWI, please accept our kind regards! David TroubaCommunications DirectorStockholm International Water InstituteDrottninggatan 3311151 Stockholm SWEDEN Tel: +46 8 522 139 89Text: +46 73 914 39 89Skype: davetroubawww.siwi.org www.swedishwaterhouse.sewww.watergovernance.org www.worldwaterweek.org SIWI mailing list: http://80.252.174.240/siwi/
In Sweden, August 11 - September 2, 2008In Lao PDR, November 17 - 28, 2008
Eligible countries include Cambodia, China, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam.
Deadline for application: March 17, 2008
The objective of the training programme is to support and stimulate the development of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in the participants’ home countries, and to encourage the participants to involve in and contribute to networking on IWRM. The programme consists of 5.5 weeks of scheduled training distributed in two different phases, 3.5 weeks training in Stockholm, Sweden, from August 11–September 2, 2008, and 2 weeks training in Lao PDR, from November 17–28, 2008. In addition to the scheduled training, participants will undertake an Individual Project, on a part time basis in their home organisations, starting 6 weeks before the training in Sweden and to be completed within 8 weeks after the regional training. Please see the attached documentation for more information or visit www.siwi.org or www.rambollnatura.se. On behalf of Ramboll Natura AB, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, the International Water Management Institute, and SIWI, please accept our kind regards! David TroubaCommunications DirectorStockholm International Water InstituteDrottninggatan 3311151 Stockholm SWEDEN Tel: +46 8 522 139 89Text: +46 73 914 39 89Skype: davetroubawww.siwi.org www.swedishwaterhouse.sewww.watergovernance.org www.worldwaterweek.org SIWI mailing list: http://80.252.174.240/siwi/
Press Statement by Revenue Watch Institute and PWYP Coalition Indonesia
INDONESIAN GROUPS AND OIL REVENUE EXPERTS PRESS FOR TRANSPARENCY STANDARDS IN INTERNATIONAL FIGHT ON CORRUPTION
At UN's Bali Gathering, Forty-Five NGOs Urge Leaders to Implement Good Governance Rules in Oil Rich Nations
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ridaya Laode Ngkowe
29 January, 2006 +62812037964, ridaya.lon@gmail.com
DENPASAR – As the UN Convention against Corruption meets in Bali, the Revenue Watch Institute and Publish What You Pay-Indonesia call on the members gathered from 140 states to recognize the urgent and particular need to eliminate corruption in countries rich in oil, gas and minerals. The leaders convening to ensure the Convention's ratification and widespread compliance should emphasize transparency and monitoring measures in these resource rich nations in line with the UNCAC's requirement for mechanisms to combat and prevent corruption. Accountable governance mechanisms such as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) can prevent the theft of citizen resources and empower communities to realize the benefits of their local industries. "With prices rising, huge windfalls are headed into the coffers of resource rich governments. This opportunity must not be wasted and the international community committed to fighting corruption must act quickly to help reverse the trend in developing countries and assist them in joining the EITI," said Ridaya Laode Ngkowe of PWYP-Indonesia. Corruption is egregious and disproportionately prevalent in resource rich countries, which account for nearly two thirds of the 40 most corrupt states in Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index. As Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Timor Leste, Burma, Vietnam, Cambodia and Papua New Guinea become increasingly resource dependent, they will face the economic and governance challenges that accompany oil, gas and mining revenues, including high poverty levels as well as corruption. The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (www.eitransparency.org) is an internationally recognized mechanism to create transparency and participation in revenue transfers. Led by stakeholders from government, civil society and industry, this voluntary initiative calls for countries to publish their revenues and for companies to publish their payments. "The fight against corruption begins by revealing where money goes before it ends up in the wrong hands," said Karin Lissakers, Director of the Revenue Watch Institute. "The EITI gives citizens, governments and companies a powerful tool to mitigate corruption in the places where it's most endemic, and to help keep money flowing to its intended destination." Publish What You Pay–Indonesia consists of 45 Indonesian NGOs from resource rich regions that are promoting transparency in the extractive industries sector, to ensure better economic growth and public service delivery, as well as higher social and environmental standards in the sector. The Revenue Watch Institute promotes the responsible management of oil, gas and mineral resources for the public good. With effective revenue management, increased citizen engagement and real government accountability, natural resource wealth will drive a nation's growth and development. RWI provides the expertise, funding and technical assistance to help countries realize these benefits. To learn more, please go to www.revenuewatch.org.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
The POSCO Asia Fellowship at Seoul National University
The POSCO Asia Fellowship is a scholarship program designed to invite promising Asian graduate students to the Master's Program at the Graduate School of International Studies(GSIS), Seoul National University(SNU), supporting their studies at one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in Korea. The fellowship, offered by the POSCO TJ Park Foundation, covers full tuitions for up to 4 semesters at GSIS-SNU and monthly living stipends for two years in Korea.A total of 9 fellowships for this year have been awarded to students from Asia. The POSCO Asia Fellowship Foundation has continued to expand the scope of its social contributions and hopes to provide additional Asian countries with more scholarships in the future. For the Master's program at GSIS SNU AY 2008, Asian universities are invited to recommend students to the Fellowship.Fellowships are provided to promote mutual understanding between Asian countries and Korea, and to strengthen professional abilities of Asian elite students. Knowledge sharing projects such as the POSCO Asia Fellowship hope to benefit the different societies, economies, and cultures of the world.Eligibility and Requirements for Admission
Submitted documents become the property of SNU and will not be returned to the applicants.Documents that are not in English or Korean must be accompanied by an English or korean notarized translation. Please submit the original documents as well.International applicants with unusual cases and individual circumstances may be given special consideration. Eligibility for Application
Applicants must meet all of the following requirementsCommon RequirementsHe or she holds a Bachelor's degree; He or she is not a citizen of Korea; His or her parents are not citizens of KoreaRead more:http://Cambodiajobs.blogspot.com/2008/01/posco-asia-fellowship-at-seoul-national.html
Submitted documents become the property of SNU and will not be returned to the applicants.Documents that are not in English or Korean must be accompanied by an English or korean notarized translation. Please submit the original documents as well.International applicants with unusual cases and individual circumstances may be given special consideration. Eligibility for Application
Applicants must meet all of the following requirementsCommon RequirementsHe or she holds a Bachelor's degree; He or she is not a citizen of Korea; His or her parents are not citizens of KoreaRead more:http://Cambodiajobs.blogspot.com/2008/01/posco-asia-fellowship-at-seoul-national.html
For Immediate Release
For Immediate Release: 28th January 2008
New Report Urges Better Energy Planning in Cambodia before Hydropower Dams are DevelopedChinese investment in Cambodia’s hydropower sector is threatening some of the country’s most precious ecosystems and the livelihoods of thousands of people, according to a new research report released today. The research report, prepared by International Rivers and the Rivers Coalition in Cambodia, highlights the growing interest in large-scale hydropower dam development by Cambodian decision makers backed mainly by Chinese project developers and financiers.In April 2006, China announced a US$600 million aid package to Cambodia, almost half of which financed the Kamchay Dam, Cambodia’s first large domestic hydropower project. The project, now under construction by China’s largest hydropower developer, Sinohydro Corporation, is located wholly within Bokor National Park and will flood 2,000 hectares of protected forest. A second major hydropower project was approved in 2007 and a further six large dams are known to be presently undergoing feasibility studies, mostly by Chinese companies. Four of these projects are located close to or within the Central Cardamom Protected Forest in Southwest Cambodia. In addition, Chinese investors are pursuing the Sambor Dam on the Mekong mainstream which, if built, would block major fish migrations and could decimate the income of tens of thousands of subsistence and commercial fishers. The Sambor Dam also threatens habitat for the endangered Irrawaddy Dolphin, around which a thriving local tourism industry has grown.“Cambodia’s free flowing rivers and abundant natural resources are invaluable assets, the health of which are vital to the well-being of Cambodia’s rural population” said Carl Middleton, Mekong Program Coordinator with International Rivers. “Poorly conceived hydropower development could irreparably damage these resources and undermine Cambodia’s sustainable development.”Securing access to reliable, cheap electricity to supply Cambodia’s expanding economy is a key challenge faced by the Cambodian Government. The report recommends that Cambodia adopt international best practices in electricity planning, including the findings of the World Commission on Dams, which is widely recognized to be the international gold standard for energy and water planning.“Cambodia has many choices for meeting our electricity needs including renewable and decentralized energy options that must be explored” said Ngy San, Deputy Executive Director with the NGO Forum on Cambodia. “We are asking the Government to invite the public’s participation in the planning process to ensure Cambodia’s electricity system is affordable, sustainable and accessible to all.” The report can be downloaded from www.internationalrivers.org/en/southeast-asia/cambodia and www.ngoforum.org.kh. Contact:Carl Middleton, Mekong Program Coordinator, International Rivers (+66 84 681 5332; carl@internationalrivers.org)Ngy San, Deputy Executive Director, NGO Forum on Cambodia (+855 16 852 552; san@ngoforum.org.kh)
New Report Urges Better Energy Planning in Cambodia before Hydropower Dams are DevelopedChinese investment in Cambodia’s hydropower sector is threatening some of the country’s most precious ecosystems and the livelihoods of thousands of people, according to a new research report released today. The research report, prepared by International Rivers and the Rivers Coalition in Cambodia, highlights the growing interest in large-scale hydropower dam development by Cambodian decision makers backed mainly by Chinese project developers and financiers.In April 2006, China announced a US$600 million aid package to Cambodia, almost half of which financed the Kamchay Dam, Cambodia’s first large domestic hydropower project. The project, now under construction by China’s largest hydropower developer, Sinohydro Corporation, is located wholly within Bokor National Park and will flood 2,000 hectares of protected forest. A second major hydropower project was approved in 2007 and a further six large dams are known to be presently undergoing feasibility studies, mostly by Chinese companies. Four of these projects are located close to or within the Central Cardamom Protected Forest in Southwest Cambodia. In addition, Chinese investors are pursuing the Sambor Dam on the Mekong mainstream which, if built, would block major fish migrations and could decimate the income of tens of thousands of subsistence and commercial fishers. The Sambor Dam also threatens habitat for the endangered Irrawaddy Dolphin, around which a thriving local tourism industry has grown.“Cambodia’s free flowing rivers and abundant natural resources are invaluable assets, the health of which are vital to the well-being of Cambodia’s rural population” said Carl Middleton, Mekong Program Coordinator with International Rivers. “Poorly conceived hydropower development could irreparably damage these resources and undermine Cambodia’s sustainable development.”Securing access to reliable, cheap electricity to supply Cambodia’s expanding economy is a key challenge faced by the Cambodian Government. The report recommends that Cambodia adopt international best practices in electricity planning, including the findings of the World Commission on Dams, which is widely recognized to be the international gold standard for energy and water planning.“Cambodia has many choices for meeting our electricity needs including renewable and decentralized energy options that must be explored” said Ngy San, Deputy Executive Director with the NGO Forum on Cambodia. “We are asking the Government to invite the public’s participation in the planning process to ensure Cambodia’s electricity system is affordable, sustainable and accessible to all.” The report can be downloaded from www.internationalrivers.org/en/southeast-asia/cambodia and www.ngoforum.org.kh. Contact:Carl Middleton, Mekong Program Coordinator, International Rivers (+66 84 681 5332; carl@internationalrivers.org)Ngy San, Deputy Executive Director, NGO Forum on Cambodia (+855 16 852 552; san@ngoforum.org.kh)
Friday, January 25, 2008
The Diplomacy Training Program
The Diplomacy Training Program is calling for applications for its 2nd program on Human Rights and Trade for advocates from the Asia/Pacific Region and Indigenous Australia. The 8-day program will focus on bilateral and regional free trade Agreements (FTA's) in the areas of manufacturing, investment, services, intellectual property and agriculture and their implications on human rights. Advocates who are looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of Human Rights, international trade and how this relates to their community are encouraged to apply. The program will also provide participants with practical skills in advocacy, media and Internet based research specifically tailored to support their advocacy work around Human Rights and Trade. The program will be held from 28 March – 4 April in Dili, East Timor in partnership with the Peace and Democracy Foundation, Timor-Leste I should be grateful if you could circulate this information to your contacts.Please note that the deadline for applications is 1 February 2008. This program is restricted to people from Asia, Pacific and Oceania. You can download a Program brochure and Application form from the DTP website
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
ESCR Training, May 08, Geneva
Course on "Monitoring Economic, Social and Cultural Rights" in Geneva (5-9 May 2008) for staff from small and medium organisations (in particular NGOs) with the know-how to get started in monitoring ESC rights, or in-depth knowledge to enhance their ESCR monitoring work.
The course is organized by Huridocs and the Research Unit on the Right to Food of the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (www.righttofood.org). At the end of the course, it is expected that participants will be familiar with the content of economic, social and cultural rights, be able to devise realistic strategies for monitoring ESC rights and documenting the violation and realisation of an ESC right of particular concern to them or their organization, be able to present findings effectively, and be able to devise an advocacy strategy which makes use of the international human rights mechanisms. More information at : www.huridocs.org/training/escr
Best regards, Priscilla Claeys Globalisation and HR Desk
-- Priscilla Claeys(en remplacement d'Elin Wrzoncki)Responsable de programme / Mondialisation et droits humainsDesk Officer / Globalization and Human Rights FIDHInternational Federation for Human RightsFédération internationale des ligues des droits de l'Homme17, passage de la Main d'Or75011 ParisTel : + 33 1 43 55 55 03Fax : + 33 1 43 55 18 80www.fidh.org
The course is organized by Huridocs and the Research Unit on the Right to Food of the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (www.righttofood.org). At the end of the course, it is expected that participants will be familiar with the content of economic, social and cultural rights, be able to devise realistic strategies for monitoring ESC rights and documenting the violation and realisation of an ESC right of particular concern to them or their organization, be able to present findings effectively, and be able to devise an advocacy strategy which makes use of the international human rights mechanisms. More information at : www.huridocs.org/training/escr
Best regards, Priscilla Claeys Globalisation and HR Desk
-- Priscilla Claeys(en remplacement d'Elin Wrzoncki)Responsable de programme / Mondialisation et droits humainsDesk Officer / Globalization and Human Rights FIDHInternational Federation for Human RightsFédération internationale des ligues des droits de l'Homme17, passage de la Main d'Or75011 ParisTel : + 33 1 43 55 55 03Fax : + 33 1 43 55 18 80www.fidh.org
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Vietnam: Unique biodiversity threatened by World Bank-funded cement plant
Posted on 25 June 2003 by Chris Lang IFC is funding a cement plant, partly owned by Swiss company Holcim, in Hon Chong in the southwest of Vietnam. The EIA makes almost no mention of the plant's impact on biodiversity.
By Chris Lang. Published in WRM Bulletin 71, June 2003.
Vietnam's karst landscapes are world renowned. Perhaps the country's most famous limestone scenery is at Ha Long Bay, which has been declared a World Heritage Site. In 1962, the karst landscape at Cuc Phuong in northern Vietnam became the country's first national park. As well as producing spectacular scenery, limestone is the main raw material for cement manufacture and many karst landscapes are under threat. Vietnam is no exception. In 1998, a new cement plant called Morning Star Cement, started operation in Hon Chong, in Kien Giang province in the southwest of Vietnam, near the Cambodian border. The project is a joint venture between a Swiss cement company, Holcim (65%), and Vietnam's Ha Tien I Cement Company (35%). Morning Star has since been renamed as Holcim (Vietnam) Ltd. The International Finance Corporation (IFC, the private sector arm of the World Bank) provided a US$30 million loan to build the 1.7 million tons a year cement plant. Holcim will quarry three limestone mountains near to its cement plant for raw material to produce cement. According to the company's web-site, Holcim Vietnam aims "to achieve first class environmental performance of our operation and assets. Holcim Vietnam recognizes that raw materials, soil, water and air are finite resources which we must handle carefully and responsibly." Yet the environmental impact assessment for the project made almost no mention of the impact on biodiversity caused by Holcim's limestone quarries. The EIA, produced in 1995 by the Environmental Protection Centre in Ho Chi Minh City, simply reported that "Very little wildlife has been seen in the area—only a few monkeys and there is a remarkable lack of birdlife. The EIA did not identify any protected or endangered species of wild life in the area." According to the Karst Waters Institute, a US-based non-profit organisation, the Ha Tien-Hon Chong Karst has a "unique compilation of plant and animal species due in large part to its geographical isolation." The area is habitat to bats, reptiles, birds and small animals. Endangered leaf monkeys have also been reported in the area. In 1997, the Institute reported that "Protests by locals, provincial authorities and scientists from Ho Chi Minh University have, so far, all been ignored by the Hanoi government" and added that Holcim "has proved especially insensitive to environmental issues involving karst". The Institute included the karst landscape of Ha Tien - Hon Chong, where Holcim is operating, in its 1998 list of the ten most endangered karst landscapes in the world. In October 1999, the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Working Group on Caves and Karst reported in its newsletter that in the late 1990s, "The World Bank became concerned about the impact on both biodiversity and cultural heritage which was occurring as a result of limestone quarrying for cement manufacture in the East Asia region." The Bank hired Dr Jaap Vermeulen of the Natural History Museum, Leiden in the Netherlands to "establish a process of inquiry". In January 1999, the World Bank and IUCN organised a workshop on karst in Bangkok, and in September the Bank published the result of Vermeulen's work. Vermeulen and co-author Tony Witten (of the World Bank) confirmed that the EIA of Holcim's operations "did not review the biodiversity of the limestone hills in any detail." The authors commented cautiously that "It was considered prudent to revisit the question of the biodiversity of these limestone hills to determine if additional management interventions are needed in this particular case, and to examine how the IFC and potential future sponsors should address these issues more generally." Using Australian Trust Funds, IFC hired Sinclair Knight Merz, an Australian-based consulting firm, to produce a "study of the limestone resources in southwestern Vietnam" which would "delineate their potential uses for limestone production, biodiversity conservation, forestry production (timber and nontimber), tourism, groundwater recharge, and so forth," according to Vermeulen and Witten. Four years later, this study is not available. In response to a request for the study in March last year, Richard Caines, Coordinator for East Asia and Pacific at IFC, replied, "We have only recently received a final draft. Once the report has been reviewed and approved, our intention is to make it publicly available." In June 2003, Caines stated, "The various issues which slowed its progress related to team selection and gaining the appropriate approvals for the study to be undertaken. These approvals needed to be secured from the funders, IFC management, Holcim management and various Vietnamese government Departments/People's Committees. Consensus decision making amongst such entities is not a fast-track process, I'm afraid." He added that "The report has not been publicly released." A source close to the study reported that the Vietnamese Army ordered that the limestone hills along the Cambodian border be excluded from the Sinclair Knight Merz study. Shortly afterwards, the Kien Giang Provincial Government refused to allow the study to continue. IFC is now working with Holcim and the International Crane Foundation on a project entitled "Sustainable Development and Biodiversity Conservation of Wetlands in the Ha Tien Plain". In 1998, the endangered Eastern Sarus Crane started to use areas of grassland near Hon Chong as an early season feeding ground. The project aims to preserve these grassland areas. Of course, this biodiversity project will in no way affect Holcim's quarrying activities. IFC and International Crane Foundation are allowing Holcim to greenwash its activities by deflecting attention from Holcim's quarries. By not insisting on an adequate EIA, IFC is in breach of the World Bank's safeguard policies. Meanwhile, Holcim continues to quarry 4,000 tons of limestone a day from the mountains near Hon Chong.Filed under: Mining __._,_.___
By Chris Lang. Published in WRM Bulletin 71, June 2003.
Vietnam's karst landscapes are world renowned. Perhaps the country's most famous limestone scenery is at Ha Long Bay, which has been declared a World Heritage Site. In 1962, the karst landscape at Cuc Phuong in northern Vietnam became the country's first national park. As well as producing spectacular scenery, limestone is the main raw material for cement manufacture and many karst landscapes are under threat. Vietnam is no exception. In 1998, a new cement plant called Morning Star Cement, started operation in Hon Chong, in Kien Giang province in the southwest of Vietnam, near the Cambodian border. The project is a joint venture between a Swiss cement company, Holcim (65%), and Vietnam's Ha Tien I Cement Company (35%). Morning Star has since been renamed as Holcim (Vietnam) Ltd. The International Finance Corporation (IFC, the private sector arm of the World Bank) provided a US$30 million loan to build the 1.7 million tons a year cement plant. Holcim will quarry three limestone mountains near to its cement plant for raw material to produce cement. According to the company's web-site, Holcim Vietnam aims "to achieve first class environmental performance of our operation and assets. Holcim Vietnam recognizes that raw materials, soil, water and air are finite resources which we must handle carefully and responsibly." Yet the environmental impact assessment for the project made almost no mention of the impact on biodiversity caused by Holcim's limestone quarries. The EIA, produced in 1995 by the Environmental Protection Centre in Ho Chi Minh City, simply reported that "Very little wildlife has been seen in the area—only a few monkeys and there is a remarkable lack of birdlife. The EIA did not identify any protected or endangered species of wild life in the area." According to the Karst Waters Institute, a US-based non-profit organisation, the Ha Tien-Hon Chong Karst has a "unique compilation of plant and animal species due in large part to its geographical isolation." The area is habitat to bats, reptiles, birds and small animals. Endangered leaf monkeys have also been reported in the area. In 1997, the Institute reported that "Protests by locals, provincial authorities and scientists from Ho Chi Minh University have, so far, all been ignored by the Hanoi government" and added that Holcim "has proved especially insensitive to environmental issues involving karst". The Institute included the karst landscape of Ha Tien - Hon Chong, where Holcim is operating, in its 1998 list of the ten most endangered karst landscapes in the world. In October 1999, the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Working Group on Caves and Karst reported in its newsletter that in the late 1990s, "The World Bank became concerned about the impact on both biodiversity and cultural heritage which was occurring as a result of limestone quarrying for cement manufacture in the East Asia region." The Bank hired Dr Jaap Vermeulen of the Natural History Museum, Leiden in the Netherlands to "establish a process of inquiry". In January 1999, the World Bank and IUCN organised a workshop on karst in Bangkok, and in September the Bank published the result of Vermeulen's work. Vermeulen and co-author Tony Witten (of the World Bank) confirmed that the EIA of Holcim's operations "did not review the biodiversity of the limestone hills in any detail." The authors commented cautiously that "It was considered prudent to revisit the question of the biodiversity of these limestone hills to determine if additional management interventions are needed in this particular case, and to examine how the IFC and potential future sponsors should address these issues more generally." Using Australian Trust Funds, IFC hired Sinclair Knight Merz, an Australian-based consulting firm, to produce a "study of the limestone resources in southwestern Vietnam" which would "delineate their potential uses for limestone production, biodiversity conservation, forestry production (timber and nontimber), tourism, groundwater recharge, and so forth," according to Vermeulen and Witten. Four years later, this study is not available. In response to a request for the study in March last year, Richard Caines, Coordinator for East Asia and Pacific at IFC, replied, "We have only recently received a final draft. Once the report has been reviewed and approved, our intention is to make it publicly available." In June 2003, Caines stated, "The various issues which slowed its progress related to team selection and gaining the appropriate approvals for the study to be undertaken. These approvals needed to be secured from the funders, IFC management, Holcim management and various Vietnamese government Departments/People's Committees. Consensus decision making amongst such entities is not a fast-track process, I'm afraid." He added that "The report has not been publicly released." A source close to the study reported that the Vietnamese Army ordered that the limestone hills along the Cambodian border be excluded from the Sinclair Knight Merz study. Shortly afterwards, the Kien Giang Provincial Government refused to allow the study to continue. IFC is now working with Holcim and the International Crane Foundation on a project entitled "Sustainable Development and Biodiversity Conservation of Wetlands in the Ha Tien Plain". In 1998, the endangered Eastern Sarus Crane started to use areas of grassland near Hon Chong as an early season feeding ground. The project aims to preserve these grassland areas. Of course, this biodiversity project will in no way affect Holcim's quarrying activities. IFC and International Crane Foundation are allowing Holcim to greenwash its activities by deflecting attention from Holcim's quarries. By not insisting on an adequate EIA, IFC is in breach of the World Bank's safeguard policies. Meanwhile, Holcim continues to quarry 4,000 tons of limestone a day from the mountains near Hon Chong.Filed under: Mining __._,_.___
CP to expand its regional maize crops
WALAILAK KEERATIPIPATPONG
The CP Group plans to enlarge its maize plantations in fourneighbouring countries by another 1.67 million rai to provide feed forthe group's livestock business.
Ajva Taulananda, vice-chairman of the group, said the expansion wasplanned over the next two years to bring the total plantation area to3.2 million rai in Vietnam, Burma, Cambodia and Laos.
Its crop areas would climb to 1.7 million rai in Vietnam, 700,000 inBurma, 500,000 in Cambodia and 300,000 in Laos.
The expansion is expected to produce an additional 1.67 million tonnesof maize for CP to supply animal feedmill production and livestockfarming for CP Group and its SET-listed flagship Charoen PokphandFoods Plc. Regional subsidiaries CP Vietnam Livestock Co and CP LaosCo need a large volume of maize each year.
Maize sales in these countries are covered under a tariff-freearrangement backed by the Ayerawaddy-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Co-operation Strategy (Acmecs), a programme launched in 2003 to promotethe regional economy by raising farm incomes in Cambodia, Laos, Burma,Vietnam, and Thailand.
CP was among the first Thai corporations to grow maize in the region,planting about one million rai of the crop.
''The programme provides mutual benefits to both local farmers andCP,'' Dr Ajva said. ''Under the contract-farming format, CP provideshybrid seeds and farm technology to farmers and buys the produce backat market prices.''
He said that the group's advanced seed development had boosted yieldsto about 1,000 kilogrammes per rai, well above the average of 650 kgproduced in Thailand at present.
Dr Ajva said that companies under the CP Group used about two milliontonnes of maize per year. Overseas expansion could provide sufficientmaize for their operations amid the fierce battles for grain suppliesbetween the farm and industrial sectors.
Maize exports from the United States would continue decreasing as thecrop would be used more in ethanol plants, he said.
In Thailand, the four million tonnes of output are insufficient tokeep up with demand of about 5.5 million tonnes. Plantations were indecline as farmers turned to other higher-earning crops such as rubberand sugarcane.
The total area of maize fields fell to 5.08 million rai last year,down from 5.67 million in 2005 and 5.14 million rai in 2006.
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The CP Group plans to enlarge its maize plantations in fourneighbouring countries by another 1.67 million rai to provide feed forthe group's livestock business.
Ajva Taulananda, vice-chairman of the group, said the expansion wasplanned over the next two years to bring the total plantation area to3.2 million rai in Vietnam, Burma, Cambodia and Laos.
Its crop areas would climb to 1.7 million rai in Vietnam, 700,000 inBurma, 500,000 in Cambodia and 300,000 in Laos.
The expansion is expected to produce an additional 1.67 million tonnesof maize for CP to supply animal feedmill production and livestockfarming for CP Group and its SET-listed flagship Charoen PokphandFoods Plc. Regional subsidiaries CP Vietnam Livestock Co and CP LaosCo need a large volume of maize each year.
Maize sales in these countries are covered under a tariff-freearrangement backed by the Ayerawaddy-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Co-operation Strategy (Acmecs), a programme launched in 2003 to promotethe regional economy by raising farm incomes in Cambodia, Laos, Burma,Vietnam, and Thailand.
CP was among the first Thai corporations to grow maize in the region,planting about one million rai of the crop.
''The programme provides mutual benefits to both local farmers andCP,'' Dr Ajva said. ''Under the contract-farming format, CP provideshybrid seeds and farm technology to farmers and buys the produce backat market prices.''
He said that the group's advanced seed development had boosted yieldsto about 1,000 kilogrammes per rai, well above the average of 650 kgproduced in Thailand at present.
Dr Ajva said that companies under the CP Group used about two milliontonnes of maize per year. Overseas expansion could provide sufficientmaize for their operations amid the fierce battles for grain suppliesbetween the farm and industrial sectors.
Maize exports from the United States would continue decreasing as thecrop would be used more in ethanol plants, he said.
In Thailand, the four million tonnes of output are insufficient tokeep up with demand of about 5.5 million tonnes. Plantations were indecline as farmers turned to other higher-earning crops such as rubberand sugarcane.
The total area of maize fields fell to 5.08 million rai last year,down from 5.67 million in 2005 and 5.14 million rai in 2006.
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