Monday, September 28, 2026
Home Blog Page 573

Future of agriculture – European Commission

0
Future of agriculture – European Commission

The vision is built around four main areas. 

An attractive sector

The EU will work to make farming a viable and attractive career for future generations. This means fair incomes, better support, and a stronger food chain. We’ll introduce a Generational Renewal Strategy in 2025 to help young farmers innovate and invest in their businesses.

A competitive and resilient sector

The EU will help our agri-food system to withstand crises and seize opportunities by becoming more diverse, adaptable, and innovative. We’ll prioritise food security, diversify supply chains, and work towards fairer competition. 

A future-proof sector 

Farming will play a key role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. The EU will promote sustainable farming practices that reduce emissions, protect natural resources, and improve soil health. We’ll also develop a voluntary benchmarking system to help farmers measure and improve their performance.

A sector that values food and people

The EU wants to reconnect people with the food they eat and the territories and traditions that define it. We’ll support rural areas, reduce food waste, and address societal concerns like animal welfare. We’ll also hold an annual Food Dialogue to discuss critical issues like food affordability and nutrition.

Source link

Civilians at breaking point in eastern DR Congo warns top aid official, in call to resume talks

0
Civilians at breaking point in eastern DR Congo warns top aid official, in call to resume talks

“The rapid and uninterrupted expansion of the conflict, particularly in South Kivu province, continues to inflict a heavy toll on the civilian population,” said UN humanitarian coordinator for DRC, Bruno Lemarquis. “The population can no longer continue to pay such a heavy price for a conflict that continues to spread and now threatens the stability of the entire region.”

The veteran aid official’s appeal came as yet more vulnerable people reportedly fled combat zones amid advancing and heavily armed Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. On Sunday the opposition fighters took control of Bukavu – the second major eastern DRC city to fall, in a matter of weeks.

“It is imperative to put an end to the confrontations” and resume dialogue, Mr. Lemarquis insisted, as he echoed concerns stressed by the UN Secretary-General that the continuing M23 offensive threatens regional stability.

For aid teams who remain committed to helping vulnerable and hard-to-reach communities impacted by the fighting, Mr. Lemarquis signalled that the most urgent priorities include reopening airports for humanitarian flights in Goma – capital of North Kivu and Kavumu in South Kivu, both now controlled by M23.

‘Tense’ situation in Bukavu

The security situation in Bukavu remains tense, according to the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, which also reported that commercial boats have resumed services on Lake Kivu between Bukavu and Goma.

Humanitarian partners have also reported widespread looting in various part of Bukavu over the weekend, including a UN World Food Programme warehouse containing 7,000 tonnes of supplies.

“Several churches and collective centres in Bukavu are reportedly hosting displaced people,” OCHA noted in an update, adding that humanitarian assessment activities resumed on Tuesday “and will continue tomorrow as conditions permit”.

In addition to the urgent need for humanitarian supply flights, the UN aid coordinator urged respect for international law regarding the rights of internally displaced people (IDPs). Just last week, relief agencies expressed concern at a 72-hour ultimatum issued by M23 representatives to IDPs in Goma who were told to go back to their villages.

“Any return can only take place on a voluntary basis, under safe, dignified and sustainable conditions, in accordance with international principles,” Mr. Lemarquis explained.

Neutrality at core of mission

The UN aid coordinator also insisted that relief teams’ “sole mission” was to provide vital assistance and protection to the most vulnerable, “wherever they may be…This action is guided by the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity, and independence, without taking sides or engaging in political considerations.”

The DRC emergency is one of the most complex humanitarian crises in the world; it follows decades of clashes between the Congolese armed forces and various non-State armed groups, widespread human rights violations and sexual violence.

Humanitarian needs are staggering and not just in eastern DRC, according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, which noted that seven million people within the country are displaced and more than one million have sought asylum beyond the country’s borders.

Most of these refugees are hosted by Angola, Burundi, the Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia. At the same time, the DRC – a country seven times the size of Germany – also hosts more than half a million refugees and asylum-seekers.

This latest crisis in DRC’s east has already uprooted hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people in a matter of weeks. Between 10 and 15,000 people have now crossed into neighbouring Burundi in a matter of days.

“UNHCR urgently calls for increased support to assist refugees and prevent further suffering,” it said in an online appeal. “We also urge an immediate end to hostilities in eastern DRC to prevent more displacement and civilian harm.”

Source link

Speech by President António Costa at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions

0
Speech by President António Costa at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions

At the 1st plenary session 2025 of the European Committee of the Regions, the President of the European Council, António Costa, emphasized the crucial role of local and regional governments in shaping the future of Europe and its citizens. He called for a united effort to strengthen Europe’s defence, security, and competitiveness, highlighting the importance of multi-level governance to tackle the current challenges that Europe is facing.

Source link

Be young and Muslim in Brussels – between traditions and modernity

0
Be young and Muslim in Brussels – between traditions and modernity

Yo, you who sail between tradition And modernity In Brussels, you’re not alone in this urban jungle. We know that it’s not always easy to be young and Muslim, with expectations that weigh and the gaze of others, but check that: your culture and your faith are strengths, not weaknesses. In this article, we will explore how you can smell your vibe between the past and the future, while keeping your head high and the heart burning with the desire to shine.

The Hood Life: Growing Up Muslim in Bxl

Yo, growing up in Brussels as a young Muslim is an explosive mixture of cultures and vibes. You love your inheritance while juggling the expectations of the modern world. It’s not always simple between looks and judgments, but you remain solid, because in the neighborhood, faith and identity, that’s what makes you move forward.

Repin ‘the Faith in The Streets

In the streets, you wear your faith like a coat of arms, you understood? Whether through fashion, graffiti or music, you show the world you are. You’re proud of your culture And you let it know. It’s your identity, and you defend your place with style and determination.

Family Ties and Old School Values

When you look at your family, it’s clear that values ​​of yesteryear are still there. Respect, unity and love, that’s what motivates you. Even if you drag with your friends, you know that your family is still in your heart.

The family is the base of your life, bro. Old values Remind you where you come from and guide you in your choices. Even in this world that changes quickly, you’re there to protect your roots. Whether around a traditional dish or a prayer together, you know that these moments strengthen and bring you closer. Never forget where you come from is what makes you unique in the daily Hustle.

Flexible identity culture

In this urban jungle that is Brussels, your culture is an explosive mixture. You are there, juggling between Muslim traditions and the Belgian lifestyle, creating a unique vibe that only you can wear. Every day, you sail between the inheritance of your ancestors and modern trends, and that’s what makes you special. The flexibility of your identity is 🔑 to stay in the game, while honoring your story.

Arab swag mixture and Belgian vibes

Imagine yourself in the streets, your flow kiffant Between the last rap sound and the scent of a good couscous. You thrown looks that talk about who you are: streetwear who slams, but with an Arab touch. It is a mixture that turns the heads and shows that you really know how represent.

Code change between worlds

When you cause with your friends, you go from Arabic to French as a pro. This Switching code Allows you to navigate easily through different cultures. It is a lifestyle where you can be fully Muslim and also love your life in Brussels, without ever losing your true self.

THE Switching code is child’s play for you. Whenever you speak with your family, Arabic flows naturally, but as soon as you try to approach the Belgians, you adapt your flow to stay in the blow. You are like a chameleon, changing colors according to those around you. This allows you to connect with people on different levels, while keeping your authenticity intact. This mixture of languages ​​and cultures makes you uniqueand that’s the strength of your youth in Brussels.

Squad Goals and Social Life

Yo, you’re in your team vibe, right? In Brussels, it is like an explosive mixture between tradition And modernity. You chest with your friends on the street, but you also remain connected to your roots. It’s the balancebrother, between evenings and family moments, are you? You have to know how to juggle between fun and respect, because in this game, each choice counts.

Hanging with the Fam vs. City Life

When you drag with your family, it’s all a big, big respect. But when you go out in town, it’s the free Service: You do what you want. On the one hand, you have the values ​​of the family and on the other, the freedom of urban life. This duality must be navigated in your daily life. It is above all a question of priorities.

Dating and Relationship Drama

Relations is a real roller coaster, guy. You have the pressure of your family on one side, and on the other, the desire to explore in the jungle of apps and evenings. It’s not easy to follow the rules while trying to love it, but you have to stay authentic And know what you want.

Heart stories are often complicated When you are young and Muslim in Brussels. You want to go out with someone serious, but at the same time, the expectations of your family weigh heavily. You can come across situations dramaticlike canceled appointments or your parents’ speeches that remind you of traditions. You have to navigate this game with caution : Make the right choice, remains faithful to yourself, and above all, do not rush. Patience is a virtueeven in love, are you?

Modern Day Hustle

Yo, you know what it is, to live in Brussels is not a long quiet river. Muslim youth must juggle between TAF, studies and traditions. You’re in the game, looking for your way while remaining true. You have no choice, you have to adapt, innovate, and do the Hustle on a daily basis. The real question is how to make your culture shine while sailing in this modern urban vibe.

Education and Career Moves

In this urban jungle, education is the key, my friend. The opportunities are there, but you have to seize them. You have to focus on your studies, but not that, you also have to build your network. Be attentive to the internships and projects that can open doors to you. The more you move forward, the more you are your course, and the less the prejudices reach you.

Breaking Stereotypes In The Game

Listen, you know what it is said: prejudices are like barriers. But you can break them! Whether you are in the world of sport, music or even business, show the world that you are not just a label. Take the MIC, move the lines and break these stereotypes. You are an actor of change, and you have to prove it in your own way.

Theme Details
Education Build a solid future
Culture Value your roots
Opportunities Internships and networks
Hustle Persistence in life
Prejudice Crush them with success

Breaking stereotypes is not just a slogan, it’s a lifestyle! You’re not here to stick to people’s expectations. Each step you take, you show that you are proud of who you are. Whether in the field, in a project or in MIC, you represent your culture while rejecting borders. People like to see change, and you know how to make the difference. Perceiving the Struggle, but also the Victory, that’s How You Roll.

  • Break prejudices is essential
  • Present your culture proudly
  • Build bridges instead of walls
  • Show your value worldwide
  • Inspire the next generation with your actions
Positive elements Negative elements
Culture sensitivity Persistent prejudices
Solid networks of friends Discrimination in certain sectors
Multiple opportunities Lack of support
Innovation and creativity Access barriers
Collective strength Cultural stigma

You listen to, the challenges of being young and Muslim in Brussels are serious. Stereotypes, they have a hard life, but it’s up to you to change. By breaking these barriers, you don’t just inspire your crew, but also those who look at you from afar. You are their voice, their light, and it’s not nothing. Perceiving the Struggle, are you ready to show the world your true value?

Faith in the digital age

Yo, in this digital world, your faith Take a new turn, you see? Young people like you sail between traditions and new vibes, seeking to keep their spirituality while accepting the change. Twitter, Instagram, is that where you can share your thoughts and show what Muslim means in this modern world, did you capture?

Social networks and religious expression

On networks, you have the freedom to express your belief without filter. Whether you do religious content or talk about your culture, these platforms are the scene where you can shine. But be careful, not everyone is there with good intentions, so remains vigilant.

Muslim communities online

When you go to other young people in Muslim communities onlineyou discover a vibe that mixes tradition And modernity. It’s a place where you can share your experiences, ask questions and learn new things, knowing that you are part of a world family. Respect and listen to the opinions of others, because that’s it, the spirit of the Ummah!

These communities Online, it’s more than a simple cat, it’s a real space where young digital mosques are formed. You can share videos, ask questions about the faithand even find solutions to challenges you meet. You’re not alone in this game, guy. It is a powerful way to learn and rise together, so do not hesitate to dive and join the movement!

Keeping it real

Yo, being young and Muslim in Brussels is not always easy, you see? Like, you are between strict religious rules and the city’s urban vibe. You have to be careful not to lose your balance, but you also have the freedom to express yourself. You just have to stay true, authentic, and find your way in this mixture of traditions and modernity.

Balancing Religious Rules with City Life

In the urban jungle, you learn to juggle the religious rules and the reality of city life. You don’t want to feel away, but you also want your beliefs. It is a real challenge to respect your values ​​while having the pleasures of urban life.

Finding Your Own Lane

Every day, you write your own chapter. Finding your own path is not just a matter of fashion or buzz, it’s really Define what it means to be Muslim in this still evolving world. The key is the trust and authenticity; Be proud of who you are.

In fact, looking for your own path, you learn to combine the Best of both worldsby developing a unique style that speaks to you. Whether by choosing your clothes With care, listening to music that represents you, or by creating links with people who share your values, you are building your identity. Remind yourself: the real strength is to be yourselfin a world that seeks to put you in boxes.

Conclusion

Yo, you’re there, young and Muslim in Brussels, juggling between your roots and the modern flow that surrounds you. It’s not always easy, but you have the strength to mix traditions and contemporary vibes. So don’t let go, stay proud of your identity, your choices, and build your own path. Listen to your heart, make your culture shine while having the diversity that surrounds you. Together, we give the clichés and we show the world that authenticity is the real swag.

Originally published at Almouwatin.com

14 arrested in hit against money laundering gang in Portugal and Spain

0
14 arrested in hit against money laundering gang in Portugal and Spain

The action day took place on 21 January 2025 in Spain (Madrid, Málaga, Marbella, Torremolinos, Coín and Ayamonte) and Portugal (Lisbon). All in all, the operation led to:14 arrests9 house searchesSeizure of over EUR 1 million in cash and cryptocurrencies.Suspects mainly operated in Spain, used the Hawala method to move the cash sourced mainly from drugs trafficking, and launder the…

Source link

World News in Brief: $53.2 billion needed for Palestinian recovery, UN condemns UNRWA schools raid, Lebanon-Israel tensions continue

0
World News in Brief: .2 billion needed for Palestinian recovery, UN condemns UNRWA schools raid, Lebanon-Israel tensions continue

“Palestinians will need joint action to address the immense recovery and reconstruction challenges ahead. A sustainable recovery process must restore hope, dignity, and livelihoods for the two million people in Gaza,” said Muhannad Hadi, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

The assessment estimates that $29.9 billion is required to repair physical infrastructure, while $19.1 billion is needed to address economic and social losses.

Housing remains the most severely affected sector, accounting for the largest share of recovery needs, with $15.2 billion – or 30 percent of the total cost – earmarked for rebuilding homes.

Over the next three years alone, $20 billion will be required to stabilise essential services and lay the foundation for long-term recovery.

Commitment to Gaza’s future 

Mr. Hadi reaffirmed the UN’s continued support, stating: “The UN stands ready to support the Palestinian people both on humanitarian assistance and a future recovery and reconstruction process.”

“Once conditions are in place, temporary shelters will be established, basic services restored, the economy kick-started, and individual and social rehabilitation begun while the longer-term recovery and reconstruction advances,” he added.

A crucial element of Gaza’s recovery will be restoring the administrative authority of the Palestinian Authority (PA) in the Strip.

“The international community must make collective efforts to support a just and lasting peace,” said Mr. Hadi, emphasising that Gaza is an integral part of this effort based on UN resolutions and international law, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States.

UN condemns raid on UNRWA schools 

In East Jerusalem, Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), reported that Israeli forces accompanied by local authorities forcibly entered the UNRWA Kalandia Training Centre, ordering its immediate evacuation.

At least 350 students and 30 staff were present at the time. Tear gas and sound bombs were deployed during the incident.

Earlier on Tuesday morning, Israeli police officers, accompanied by municipal staff, also visited several UNRWA schools in East Jerusalem, demanding their closure.

The incidents disrupted the education of approximately 250 students attending three UNRWA schools, alongside the 350 trainees affected at the Kalandia Training Centre.

UN chief condemns violations

UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the breach of the UN’s inviolable premises in occupied East Jerusalem, including the attempt to forcibly enter three UNRWA schools.

“The use of tear gas and sound bombs in educational environments while students are learning is both unnecessary and unacceptable,” said the Secretary-General Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.

“This is a clear violation of Israel’s obligations under international law, including obligations concerning the privileges and immunities of the UN and its personnel,” he added.

Mr. Dujarric emphasised that Israel’s internal legal provisions do not alter its international legal obligations and cannot justify their breach.

Lebanon: Tensions ease along the Blue Line of separation

In northern Lebanon, Tuesday marked the deadline for the Israel Defense Forces’ withdrawal south of the Blue Line, alongside the parallel deployment of Lebanese Armed Forces to positions in southern Lebanon, under the cessation of hostilities agreement reached between Israel and Hezbollah leaders on 26 November 2024.

UN peacekeepers report that Lebanese troops continue their deployment across southern Lebanon with active support from the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), while displaced families are gradually returning to their homes.

Lebanese troops continue to dispose of “unauthorised weapons” abandoned during the conflict in UNIFIL’s area of operations, said Mr. Dujarric.

Call for stability

UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro Sáenz, Force Commander of UNIFIL urged both parties to honour ceasefire commitments to ensure communities in southern Lebanon and northern Israel can feel safe again following the weeks of deadly fighting last year.

The UN remains committed to supporting all parties in upholding their obligations, Mr. Dujarric affirmed.

Source link

Council and Parliament agree to reduce food waste and set new rules on waste textile

0
Speech by President António Costa at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions

The Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement on the targeted revision of the waste framework directive.

Source link

EU annual budget 2026: Council sets guidelines for next year's EU budget

0
Speech by President António Costa at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions

The Council today approved conclusions setting guidelines for the EU’s annual budget for 2026. The guidelines will provide political guidance to the Commission in preparing the budget for next year.

Source link

Shiva Forum Europe Opens New Office to Empower Women & Youth Through Sanatana Dharma

0
Shiva Forum Europe Opens New Office to Empower Women & Youth Through Sanatana Dharma
Representatives of Shiva Forum Europe with Aldermen of Oudenaarde, Natascha De Meulemeester.

Shiva Forum Europe Launches New Office to Promote Women and Youth Empowerment, Interreligious Dialogue, and the Values of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism)

Press release // Oudenaarde, Belgium – Last february 14, 2025, Shiva Forum Europe, a prominent international organization dedicated to fostering understanding and dialogue among different cultures and religious communities, is proud to announce the opening of its new office in Oudenaarde, (East-Flanders) in collaboration with Sanatana Dharma Europe & Belgium.

This initiative aims to promote empowerment for women and youth, interreligious dialogue, and the core values of Sanatana Dharma, in alignment with the organization’s mission to build a more inclusive, peaceful, and just world. The new office will serve as a hub for organizing educational initiatives, community outreach, and dialogue programs that will work to uplift marginalized voices, especially women and youth, by providing them with opportunities for leadership, education, and social engagement. These programs will reflect the rich spiritual, philosophical, and cultural traditions of Sanatana Dharma while creating a platform for interfaith dialogue and understanding among diverse communities.

“We are thrilled to open our office in Europe and expand our reach to promote empowerment and peace through dialogue and understanding,” said Swami Bhairavananda Saraswati, Executive Director of Shiva Forum Europe.

“Through this office, we aim to create an inclusive space where women and youth can thrive, learn from one another, and work together to tackle some of the most pressing global issues. This will also be an opportunity to share the positive teachings of Sanatana Dharma, which emphasize respect for all beings, unity in diversity, and the importance of spiritual growth.”

The organization’s programs will include leadership training for women and youth, awareness campaigns on gender equality and education, and public forums on the role of religion in promoting peace and understanding. The office will also partner with other faith-based and secular organizations to encourage collective action toward sustainable and harmonious societies. Shiva Forum Europe’s mission is rooted in the deep teachings of Sanatana Dharma, which emphasizes compassion, nonviolence (ahimsa), and the interconnectedness of all life.

The organization hopes to foster a greater understanding of these principles through its programming and outreach efforts, creating a more harmonious and empathetic world. “We believe that interreligious dialogue and a focus on empowerment are essential to creating a future where people of all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures can live together in peace,” added Swamiji.

“Sanatana Dharma offers invaluable wisdom that can guide us towards living in harmony with nature and with one another, and we are excited to share this message across Europe.” With a dedicated team of diverse professionals, Shiva Forum Europe states that is ready to contribute positively to the global conversation on social justice, inclusion, and spiritual growth.

The organization invites individuals and groups interested in supporting its mission to “connect, collaborate, and become part of this transformative journey”.

For further information on Shiva Forum Europe’s programs and upcoming events, please visit: www.shivaforum.eu Contact:

Email: info[a]shivaforum.eu

Phone: +32.493.41.88.34

About Shiva Forum Europe:

Shiva Forum Europe is an international non-profit organization dedicated to fostering interreligious dialogue, women and youth empowerment, and the promotion of the core values of Sanatana Dharma. Through education, outreach, and collaboration, the forum seeks to create a more inclusive, peaceful, and just world for all.

UN rights office warns of ‘dangerous tipping point’ as abuses surge in Sudan

0
UN rights office warns of ‘dangerous tipping point’ as abuses surge in Sudan

In a new report, UN investigators detailed multiple attacks on civilians, healthcare facilities, markets, and schools, as well as ethnically motivated summary executions.

“The continued and deliberate attacks on civilians and civilian objects, as well as summary executions, sexual violence and other violations and abuses, underscore the utter failure by both parties to respect the rules and principles of international humanitarian and human rights law,” said Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

“Some of these acts may amount to war crimes. They must be investigated promptly and independently, with a view to bringing those responsible to justice,” he added.

Among its key recommendations, the report called for expanding the arms embargo and the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to cover the whole of Sudan – not just the region of Darfur, where atrocities raged unchecked 20 years ago.

Twenty-two months of brutal war

More than 22 months of brutal fighting between Government forces and their former allied militia, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has left more than 30 million people across Sudan in need of assistance and protection.

The fighting has precipitated the world’s worst displacement crisis, with over 12 million displaced from their homes, of whom 3.3 million have fled across the border.

Food security and healthcare are also in freefall, with less than a quarter of Sudan’s health facilities functioning in areas worst hit by fighting. Nearly 25 million people are suffering from “acute” levels of hunger.

Workers offload sacks of food aid from a barge in Sudan.

Sexual violence a weapon of war

The report highlighted the widespread use of sexual violence as a weapon of war, with 120 documented incidents affecting at least 203 victims. Cases are likely vastly underreported due to fear, stigma, and the collapse of medical and judicial institutions.

All sides involved in the fighting have been responsible for violations, according to report, including widespread sexual violence.

“The persistent use of sexual violence as a weapon of war in Sudan is deeply shocking,” High Commissioner Türk said.

“Urgent steps must be taken by the parties to put an end to it, to hold those responsible to account and provide redress for survivors,” he stressed.

Crackdown on civic space

The report also detailed widespread disappearances and a generalised crackdown on civic space, including killings of journalists and attacks on human rights defenders.

At least 12 journalists were killed, two of them while in detention, and 31 were arbitrarily detained, including four women.

In all, throughout 2024, OHCHR documented more than 4,200 civilian killings in the context of hostilities though the real number is likely much higher.

Reamins of a health clinic that was attacked and looted, leaving thousands of women and girls without access to critical care.

Reamins of a health clinic that was attacked and looted, leaving thousands of women and girls without access to critical care.

A dangerous tipping point

Li Fung, the head of the OHCHR office in Sudan, described the dire situation in Sudan as a “dangerous tipping point”.

Speaking to journalists at the UN Office at Geneva (UNOG) via video link from Port Sudan, she underscored the need for the international community to renew the focus on human rights.

“[The international community] must take all necessary measures to protect civilians and prevent further violations and abuses. It remains urgent to ensure critical humanitarian assistance can reach those in need,” she said.

“Together, we must stand with the people of Sudan.”

Source link