IndyACT

Become an IndyACT “Eco-Warrior” fellow!

2011-10-14T06:32:00.000-07:00

IndyACT, one of the leading advocacy organizations in the Arab region, is offering a unique fellowship opportunity for passionate environmental leaders in Lebanon to become IndyACT’s Eco-Warriors.

If you have a deep passion for environmental protection and want to be a leading advocate for environmental change, now is your chance to achieve it.

What does becoming an Eco-Warrior mean?

Gain new skills, tools and knowledge, especially in environmental issues, advocacy, leadership, team and project management, communication, negotiation and diplomatic work through a training programme specially designed by IndyACT and based on best available techniques and tools used in leading universities.

Get access to IndyACT’s vast network of experts, professionals and other stakeholders.

Launch your own initiatives, mobilise, organize, advocate, cooperate and create change.

Gain ongoing support and assistance from IndyACT to become a successful environmental leader.

Become an IndyACT representative in your local region and/or organisation.

Be part of the global environmental movement by joining IndyACT campaigns in Lebanon and around the world.

The rigorously selected fellows will undergo a six month incubation period from November 2011 till May 2012, during which they will be trained, coached, and supported to conduct their own environmental advocacy campaigns.

How do I become an Eco-Warrior?

Fill in the application form available here and send it to admin@indyact.org before October 30, 2011.

After the first round of selection, come for an in-person interview with IndyACT.

Commit to the whole duration of the incubation program.

Learn, ACT, advocate!

For further inquiries regarding the Eco-Warrior project contact admin@indyact.org.

كن من محاربي إندي أكت الخضر

2011-10-14T06:22:00.000-07:00

تقدّم إندي أكت، وهي من المنظمات الرائدة في مجال الدعوة في المنطقة العربية، فرصة فريدة للقادة البيئيين المتحمسين في لبنان ليصبحوا من محاربي إندي أكت الخضر.

إذا كان لديك شغف عميق لحماية البيئة وتريد أن تكون من الروّاد الداعين إلى التغيير البيئي، الآن فرصتك لتحقيق ذلك.

ما معنى أن تصبح محارباً أخضر؟
• تكتسب مهارات وأدوات ومعلومات جديدة، خصوصاً في مجال القضايا البيئية والدعوة والقيادة وإدارة فرق العمل وإدارة المشاريع والاتصال والتفاوض والعمل الدبلوماسي من خلال برنامج تدريبي مصمم خصيصاً من قبل إندي أكت يرتكز على أفضل التقنيات والأدوات المتاحة المستخدمة في الجامعات الرائدة.

• تتمكن من الوصول إلى شبكة إندي أكت الواسعة التي تضم الخبراء والمتخصصين وأصحاب المصلحة الآخرين.

• تطلق مبادراتك الخاصة وتقوم بالتعبئة والتنظيم والدعوة والتعاون وخلق التغيير.

• تكسب الدعم والمساعدة المستمرين من إندي أكت لكي تصبح قائداً بيئياً ناجحاً.

• تصبح ممثل إندي أكت في منطقتك المحلية و / أو منظمتك.

• تكون جزءاً من الحركة البيئية العالمية من خلال الانضمام إلى حملات إندي أكت في لبنان وفي جميع أنحاء العالم.

سيخضع الأشخاص الذين يتم اختيارهم بعناية لفترة تدريب تمتد على ستة أشهر من تشرين الثاني / نوفمبر 2011 حتى أيار / مايو 2012، يتم خلالها تدريبهم ودعمهم ليقوموا بحملات الدعوة البيئية الخاصة بهم.

كيف تصبح محارباً أخضر؟

قم بتعبئة استمارة الطلب قبل 30 تشرين الأول وأرسلها إلى

Admin@IndyACT.org

للحصول على الإستمارة (اضغط هنا)

بعد الجولة الأولى من عملية الاختيار، تأتي لإجراء مقابلة شخصية مع إندي أكت

إلتزم بكامل فترة برنامج التدريب.

تعلّم وكن فاعلاً ومناصراً للبيئة!

لمزيد من الاستفسارات بشأن مشروع المحارب الأخضر، الرجاء الاتصال ﺒ

Admin@IndyACT.org

Job Opening: IndyACT Coordinator in Egypt

2011-10-04T07:27:00.000-07:00

JOB DESCRIPTION

IndyACT Coordinator in Egypt

Job Title: IndyACT coordinator in Egypt

Organization: IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists

Line Managed by: Executive Director

Country: Egypt

Job Statement

IndyACT is a global league of independent environmental, cultural and social activists that works for a healthy, safe, and active planet. IndyACT is currently focusing its operations in the Arab World. IndyACT has already established several campaigns in the Arab region, including Egypt, on issues such as climate change, resource management, and marine and coastal protection. The organizations motto is passion with Professionalism and applies it in all its campaigns.

IndyACT is currently seeking a Coordinator for the organization in Egypt that will coordinate all of IndyACTís work in Egypt including strengthening IndyACTís presence in Egypt, conducting all managerial and administrative work, developing the organizations strategy and program in Egypt, fundraising, and implementing campaigns and project.

Job Description

The first project that the coordinator will work on is related to Concentrated Solar Power plants in Egypt. Therefore, it is strongly preferable that candidates have experience and knowledge in solar energy work, and specifically concentrated solar power plants. Nevertheless, the main tasks of the position are:

Managing internal structure, organization and communication of IndyACT presence in Egypt
Strengthening, coordinating and supporting the IndyACT team in Egypt
Insuring professional standards of all campaigns, plans and programs in Egypt
Planning the general administration of the organizations operation in Egypt
Representing the association in front of all the organizations stakeholders in Egypt
Directing and coordinating all approved programs, projects, and activities in Egypt
Recruiting, hiring, training all association personnel including responsibility for promotions, and terminations
Defining team duties, establishes performance standards, and conducts performance reviews
Promoting interest and active participation in association activities to team members and supporters
Maintaining effective relationships with other organizations, both public and private
Providing leadership and management to assure that IndyACT is well-respected, self-sufficient and financially secure in Egypt
Team members and supporters are fully informed of association conditions and of all important factors influencing them.
Export and market the organizations training and capacity-building services
Set short and long term strategies and plans for the organizations program, development, fundraising and financial sustainability.
Assist in setting a national structure and the development of a new office in the country, including registration
Create and maintain an archive and database of all IndyACTís work in Egypt, including stakeholders database, management of documents, communication, and development of the supporter base
Maintain office records (filing system, records security, confidentiality, etc.)
Providing security for all files, legal and historical documents, and membership and mailing lists
Actively seek new members, supporters and donors to the organization and maintain existing ones
Explore available grants and calls for proposals from foundations, match grants with current needs of the organization and its campaigns
Assist in developing fundraising strategies for projects or campaigns
Ensuring that all funds, physical assets, and other association property are appropriately safeguarded and administered; operating within the approved budget
Exercising control of budget and all arrangements to meet financial objectives
Develop, administer and monitor the financial system for the office in order to ensure that the municipal finances are maintained in an accurate and timely manner
Ensuring all government regulations are adhered to (financial, administrative, etc.)
Coordinate all work with the head office in Beirut
Providing advice and information to the Executive Director on development in Egypt
controlling budgets
Develop and maintain an efficient team and office management system and services
Perform other related duties as required

Qualifications and skills required are:

Personal belief in and support of IndyACT core values
Commitment to creating positive environmental, social and cultural change
A university degree
Good understanding of regional politics
Ability to meet tight deadlines and work under pressure
Ability to handle large volume of work and have excellent organization skills
Excellent interpersonal skills, team worker, good listener, able to delegate, and develop teams
Ability to take initiatives and be flexible and adaptable in a changing environment
Readiness to travel on demand according to IndyACT needs
Computer literacy (Access, Photoshop, and HTML are a plus)
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and Arabic
managerial skills, Strategic thinking, and effective networking and communication skills
Experience in performing administrative duties and report writing
Preferably having experience and knowledge in general management (project and team management)
Preferably having experience in policy development and negotiation
Strength of will and determination to drive an advocacy program
Analytical and problem solving skills
Decision making skills
Knowledge of office administration
Attention to detail and high level of accuracy

The coordinator will receive training and support from the wider global IndyACT team.

Working Hours:

Full time job from 9am to 5pm, Monday till Friday. On account of his/her responsibilities, the Coordinator may be asked to adjust his/her working hours to suit the requirements of his/her duties. Please send a full CV/resume and a covering motivation letter via email to :

whmaidan@indyact.org

The deadline for applications is 15 October 2011.

The position will start immediately. Those who do not meet our requirements for this position will not be notified.

Salary:

Depending on experience and qualifications.

المجتمع المدني : اعتمادنا على السيارة الخاصة يدمر الاقتصاد

2011-09-26T23:37:00.000-07:00

بيروت – 24 ايلول 2011: للمرة الأولى في لبنان يجتمع 300 مواطن لبناني للمطالبة بخطة للنقل مستدامة، تؤمن نقل عام فعال ومتطور واقتصادي، ويخفف من اعتمادنا على السيارة الخاصة التي تؤدي الى عبء اقتصادي واجتماعي وبيئي. في مساء يوم السبت اطلقت 14 منظمة من المجتمع المدني ومبادرات مدنية "الحملة الوطنية للنقل المستدام" التي هي حملة مطلبية موجهة نحو الحكومة اللبنانية لوضع هذه الخطة.

وتم اطلاق هذه الحملة عبر تنظيم اعتصام على الدراجات الهوائية والزلاجات ومشيا على الاقدام وغيرها من وسائل النقل البديلة، كما شارك مقعدين على كراسيهم المتحركة. ويأتي هذا الإعتصام كجزء من تحرك عالمي يقوم به ناشطون في كل أنحاء العالم للحد من التلوث الناجم عن استخدام المحروقات، للمطالبة بوسائل نقل مستدامة تحمي الاقتصاد وتحقق العدالة الاجتماعقية وصديقة للبيئة.

إنطلق الاعتصام في تمام الساعة الخامسة عصراً من أمام مدخل البيال واحتلت الدراجات الهوائية الطرقات لمدة ساعة كاملة. حمل المشاركون والمشاركات لافتات طالبت بـ "نقل عام مشترك" و"أرصفة وشوارع آمنة للمشاة" و"هواء نظيف خالٍ من غازات السيارات" و"النقل المشترك للعيش المشترك" وغيرها من الشعارات التي تتعلق بخطة نقل مستدامة. وقالت سارة عبيد من جمعية الخط الأخضر بأن وضع النقل في لبنان لم يعد محمولاً مشيرة إلى أن الحملة التي أطلقت سوف تواصل بالتحرك اعلاميا وسياسيا وعلى كافة الاصعدة الى ان نصل الى هدفنا.

ترتكز الخطة التي تطالب بها الحملة على "ادارة الطلب على النقل" عبر تخفيف اعتمادنا على السيارة الخاصة. بحيث يزيد الاعتماد على السيارات من تكاليف النقل واستهلاك الموارد كما يتطلّب إستثمارات ماليّة ضخمة لشق الطرق وإقامة مواقف السيارات، ويزيد من زحمة السير ومخاطر الطرق والتأثيرات السلبية على البيئة، ناهيك عن التكاليف الطبية الباهظة الناتجة عن حوادث السير، بالإضافة إلى الأمراض الناتجة عن التلوّث. ففي جميع الدول المتطورة لا تعتبرالسيارة الخاصة الوسيلة الرئيسية للنقل، فمثلا في السويد فقط 36 في المئة من النقل يتم بالسيارة الخاصة، مقارنة بلبنان حيث أكثرمن 90 في المئة من النقل يتم بالسيارة الخاصة. أما الخطوات التي يمكن أن تتضمنها هذه الخطة فهي: تفعيل وسائل النقل العام، إدارة تدفّق السير، تحسين التنظيم المدني، انشاء خطوط سير مخصصة للباصات، انشاء شوارع خالية من السيارات ومخصصة للمشاة.

وقال وائل حميدان من منظمة إندي-أكت بأن أي اقتصاد ناجح يحتاج الى مقومات رئيسية كتأمين الكهرباء بشكل متواصل وشبكة اتصالات فعالة وقطاع نقل سريع واقتصادي. لذلك بعد اقرار خطة الكهرباء وتحسين شبكة الاتصالات آن الوقت لحل مشكلة النقل.

تتضمن الحملة الوطنية للنقل المستدام المنظمات والمبادرات التالية:
‏Aie serve, Nahnoo, Green Line, Greenpeace, IndyACT, Train-Train, Fast Forward, Rotaract club Beirut, Critical Mass Beirut, Tour in Sour, El Mina by Bike, Green Hands, , Lebanese Physical
Handicapped Union

محاسن تبني خطة نقل مستدامة تتضمن الآتي:
التخفيف من نسبة تلوث
التخفيف من زحمة السير، وبالتالي الزيادة بانتاجية المجتمع والتخفيف من التوتر لدى المتنقلين
التقليل من مصاريف الحكومة على شق وبناء الطرق وصيانتها
التوفير على المستهلك من تكاليف صيانة وتشغيل سيارته
الزيادة في السلامة العامة على الطرقات
تأمين النقل العام للأشخاص المعوقين جسدياً

الاستخدام الفعال للاراضي: التقليل من شق طرقات وانشاء مواقف للسيارات، وذلك لقلة الطلب، ويؤدي الى استعمال الاراضي المتوافرة بشكل فعّال اكثر
التنمية الاقتصادية: مثال: انجذاب السائح الى الاماكن التي لا تجوبها السيارات مثل وسط المدينة

للإتصال بنا
sustransportation@gmail.com 70-903802 / 76-805036 / 03-506313

IndyACT: a new victory for civil society Lebanese parliament approves smoking ban in closed public places

2011-08-18T02:17:00.000-07:00

Beirut, 17 August 2011: Two years after starting its campaign to prevent smoking in closed public places, IndyACT congratulated all Lebanese on the adoption of the tobacco control law during the Lebanese parliament meeting today.

The parliament has included the tobacco control draft law on its last agenda after a coalition of civic organizations (including IndyACT, AUB Tobacco Control Research Group and Tobacco Free Initiative) carried out a long campaign to achieve this result. During this campaign, tobacco companies constantly tried to influence the law by either delaying its adoption or by trying to weaken its content.

Nevertheless, IndyACT and its allies were successfully able to prevent the intervention of these companies after making several direct actions on the matter.

Commenting on the adoption of the law, IndyACT Executive Director, Wael Hmaidan, said: “Today the parliament proved that it is out of its paralysis, and is now able to formulate and pass fair laws that protect citizens; this gives the Lebanese a ray of hope that the legislative process can return to its normal course after a long absence” .

In the period before the law was passed, IndyACT and its allies worked for months with MPs to discuss the gaps that existed in early versions of this law. Now, the law contains many good provisions.

The most important of which are: complete ban on in all closed public places such as restaurants, cafes and public transport; preventing all tobacco companies from conducting any kind of ad campaigns or sponsorship for their products; and placing a warning that covers 40% of cigarette packs.

The gap that IndyACT was able to modify in the last minute was to impose a fine on the owners of closed public places in the event of having someone smoking tobacco in them, as well as fining the smoker himself/herself.

“Lebanese can be proud of this law which is considered progressive compared to the existing laws around the world; many told us that this achievement is impossible in Lebanon, but nothing is impossible, if you believe in change and work relentlessly for it”, added Hmaidan.

The law gave the owners of tourist establishments and restaurants a whole year to prepare and adapt to the upcoming ban on smoking in closed spaces. During this time, IndyACT and its allies will carry out a campaign to make sure the law is implemented in a serious manner. This law has the potential to enormously reduce health costs for the government and the citizen. Lebanon is losing more than $ 50 million annually from treating smoke related diseases, and more than 3000 Lebanese die each year due to smoking.

- End of press release -

For more information, please contact:

Ali Fakhry, Communication Officer

Telephone - Fax: +961-1-447192, Mobile: +96171421593, E-mail: comms@indyact.org

Job oppening : Project Manager

2011-08-08T02:05:00.000-07:00

Job Description for Project Manager

Description:

The role of the Project Manager is to plan, execute, and finalize projects according to strict deadlines and within budget. This includes acquiring resources and coordinating the efforts of team members and third-party contractors or consultants in order to deliver projects according to plan. The Project Manager will also define the project’s objectives and oversee quality control throughout its life cycle.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

A university degree or college diploma in the field of Project Management or any other relevant field is required.

Experience:

Three years experience in project management and execution of projects.

Languages

Excellent command of spoken and written English and Arabic. French is a plus. General qualifications.

- Highly developed written and oral communication skills.

- Strong management skills including: analytical skills, judgment and decision making, project
management; resource management and managing multiple priorities. Be able to provide
leadership and direction.

- Ability to work in a collaborative manner and develop strong working relationships.

- Highly flexible in style with the ability to produce creative and pragmatic solutions to complex
problems.

- Resourceful and creative with the capacity to implement and respond to change. - Solution focused with the ability to work quickly and flexibly in changing circumstances.

- Ability to coordinate and organize multiple projects efficiently.

- Ability to meet tight deadlines and work under pressure.

- Ability to work in a team and have excellent organization skills.

- Good knowledge of accounting principles and practices.

- Knowledge of accounting and finance procedures.

- Ability to maintain financial records and to organize own work.

- Must demonstrate responsible behavior and attention to detail.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

1- Assist in the developing and planning of projects.

2- Implement and monitor project logistics within IndyACT’s campaigns.

3- Overall evaluation of projects.

4- Handle project budgets.

5- Coordinate with stakeholders.

6- Coordinate with all team members on their individual tasks.

7- Coordinate with project activists and volunteers.

8- Plan and schedule project timelines and execution strategies.

9- Conduct weekly meetings for follow up and evaluation.

10-Follow up on donor requests, support, and transparent reporting. Liaise with project
stakeholders on an ongoing basis.

11- Following up on data collection, achievements, and analyses.

12- Direct and manage project development from beginning to end.

13-Define project scope, goals and deliverables in collaboration with senior management and
stakeholders.

14- Effectively communicate project expectations to team members and stakeholders in a timely
and clear fashion.

15- Estimate the resources and participants needed to achieve project goals.

16-Draft and submit budget proposals, and recommend subsequent budget changes where
necessary.

17- Where required, negotiate with other department managers for the acquisition of required
personnel.

18- Determine and assess need for additional staff and/or consultants and make the appropriate
recruitments if necessary during project cycle.

19- Set and continually manage project expectations with team members and other stakeholders.

20- Delegate tasks and responsibilities to appropriate personnel.

21- Identify and resolve issues and conflicts within the project team.

22- Identify and manage project dependencies and critical path.

23- Track project milestones and deliverable through appropriate tools.

24- Proactively manage changes in project scope and identify potential crises.

25- Define project success criteria and disseminate them to involved parties throughout project life cycle.

26- Coach, mentor, motivate and supervise project team members and contractors, and influence them to take positive action and accountability for their assigned work.

27- Build, develop, and grow any relationships vital to the success of the project.

28-Conduct post project evaluation and create a recommendations report in order to identify
successful and unsuccessful project elements.

Working Hours:

Full time job from 9am to 5pm, Monday till Friday. On account of his/her responsibilities, the Project Manager may be asked to adjust his/her working hours to suit the requirements of his/her duties. Please send a full CV/resume and a motivation letter via email to admin@indyact.org. The deadline for applications is August 30, 2011.

Salary

Salary will be based on qualifications and experience.

Job oppening : Communication Officer

2011-08-08T00:58:00.000-07:00

Job Statement

IndyACT is a global league of independent environmental, cultural and social activists.
IndyACT is currently focusing its operations in the Arab World.
Although it is a new organization, IndyACT has already established several campaigns in the Arab region, especially Lebanon, on issues such as climate change, resource management, marine and coastal protection, and youth and women’s rights.
The organization’s motto is “Passion with Professionalism” and applies it in all its campaigns.
IndyACT is currently seeking a Communication Officer and a Project Manager.

Job Description for Communication Officer:

Description:

To undertake the planning, development and delivery of IndyACT’s internal and external communications, including website, monthly newsletter and other member communications and publications, in liaison with other IndyACT staff; to contribute to wider policy and communications and IndyACT work programmes.

Required Qualifications Education:

University degree in a related field.

Experience:

Three years work experience in communication and campaigning.

Languages:

Excellent command of spoken and written English and Arabic. French is a plus.

General Qualifications:

- Personal belief in and support of IndyACT core values.

- Writing and outreach experience.

- Media and awareness-raising experience.

- A strong capacity for analysis, communication and information management.

- Excellent communication and writing skills.

- Ability to meet tight deadlines and work under pressure.

- Ability to handle large volume of work and have excellent organizational skills.

- Commitment to creating positive environmental, social and cultural change.

- Excellent interpersonal skills, team work and a good listener.

- Ability to take initiatives and be flexible and adaptable in a changing environment.

- Computer literacy (Photoshop and HTML)

- Excellent Knowledge and proficiency in social media networking.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

1. Manage IndyACT social media profiles.

2. Build strong social media networks and tools in order to push for IndyACT’s communication
strategy online and to strengthen IndyACT’s image in the media and in cyber, virtual and social
networks.

3. Build campaign media materials.

4. Maintain the indyact.org website and follow up on its functionality.

5. Manage media contact lists and add more contacts to it.

6. Maintain and build relations with mainstream media, empower the role of the organization
among them and build trustful and personal relationships with them.

7. Draft and issue press releases, information notes, and written material for dissemination
among local and international media.

8. Handle internal lists, events and updates.

9. Improve the use of communication tools.

10. Improve and maintain IndyACT’s active image.

11. Update IndyACT's monthly newsletter.

Working Hours:

Full time job from 9am to 5pm, Monday till Friday. On account of his/her responsibilities, the Communication officer may be asked to adjust his/her working hours to suit the requirements of his/her duties. Please send a full CV/resume and a motivation letter via email to admin@indyact.org. The deadline for applications is August 30, 2011.

Salary:
Salary will be based on qualifications and experience.

Voice of civil society seen as cornerstone of sustainable future for the Mediterranean

2011-06-30T02:36:00.000-07:00

“We must take action today if we want to achieve a positive impact on the environment and the security of people’s lives tomorrow. The time is now to invest in our Mediterranean future, and it is essential for civil society to be an integral part of that process.”

Mustapha Derdabi of Morocco’s Association for Environmental Protection of Wilaya de Tétouan summed up the concerns of many around the table, speaking at an unprecedented meeting at the Union for the Mediterranean Secretariat in Barcelona, Spain, with WWF and a range of environmental civil society groups from across the Mediterranean.

Global conservation organisation WWF and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) Secretariat together gathered the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) this week to define and agree on the need for civil society to be a stronger voice in policy-making and projects on nature and the environment.

The civil society representatives – from Albania, Croatia, Egypt, France, Italy, Lebanon, Montenegro, Morocco, Tunisia and elsewhere around the Mediterranean and EU – discussed the need to strengthen and improve NGO participation in UfM policies and processes.

“Coordination and collaboration among environmental NGOs across the Mediterranean has massive potential to bring about positive change on a regional and even global level. Civil society can contribute significantly to capturing this potential within the Union for the Mediterranean”, said Wael Hmaidan of IndyACT, an activist group based in Lebanon and working across the Arab and European regions.

The Mediterranean is one of the richest regions in the world in terms of environment and natural resources, but also one of the most vulnerable.

Dwindling water resources, habitat degradation, the risks of a changing climate and the need to develop renewable and sustainable energies were seen as particularly pressing environmental concerns – acknowledged as issues that have a direct impact on the stability and security of daily life across the Mediterranean, and in which civil society can and should play a valuable role.

“It is exciting to follow the rapid evolution of this region – and it is essential to keep civil society and NGOs involved, especially in getting nature and the environment higher on the UfM agenda. Regional representation and building capacity of civil society across the Mediterranean, as well as a transparent process of engagement, will be key to achieving positive steps forward,” said Paloma Agrasot, manager of WWF’s European Neighbourhood Programme.

Discussion touched on the so-called Arab Spring, the political awakening and revolutions that have swept this year across the Middle East and North Africa region – highlighting the key role of civil society in bringing about positive change and translating the needs of local populations into clearly communicated demands.

The Arab Spring has revived the attention of institutions on the pivotal role of civil society in bringing about real and far-reaching change.

Building the capacity of environmental civil society groups around the Mediterranean is a key need in empowering and encouraging NGO involvement and representation.

“Moving closer to democracy does not inevitably entail the successful involvement of civil society in decisions and policy-making,” said Michal Sagive of Friends of the Earth Middle East. “We need to keep pushing for NGO participation, and to empower civil society through training and capacity-building.”

WWF has called for more UfM attention on the natural and biological assets of the Mediterranean – and on the region’s struggle with ecological scarcity. The marine environment and fisheries, for example, are still not considered a priority among top environmental issues facing the Mediterranean – yet these resources are of high socioeconomic as well as ecological value.

Spanish Member of the EU Parliament Raül Romeva i Rueda, Vice President of the European Greens, joined the discussions and stressed the need for civil society to collaborate Mediterranean-wide.

“Mediterranean countries share a range of major common threats and risks to the stability of their environment and wellbeing. We have much to gain by facing these challenges together, and by getting civil society involved in the conversation on all environmental questions – including urgent fisheries and marine issues that so often remain submerged,” said Romeva.

“The voice of civil society has been expressed loud and clear these days in Barcelona,” said Dr Rafiq Husseini, Deputy Secretary General for Water and the Environment at the UfM Secretariat. “Those involved in the Union for the Mediterranean process should encourage this voice and continue to engage environmental civil society groups more and more in decisions and policies that have such a direct impact on the lives of citizens around the Mediterranean.”

To arrange telephone interviews and for more information:

Gemma Parkes, WWF Mediterranean, e gparkes@wwf.panda.org, t +39 346 387 3237

Notes to editor:

- The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), established in 2008, is the only political process that brings together all Mediterranean and EU countries and allows multilateral discussions. It includes all 27 EU Member States, along with 16 further Mediterranean partners, representing more than 756 million citizens. The initiative is strategic regarding the relationship between the EU and the Mediterranean, one of its major neighboring regions.

More information on the Secretariat of the UfM: http://www.ufmsecretariat.org/en/

- More on WWF’s work across the Mediterranean region: http://mediterranean.panda.org/

Gulf conservation and corporate 'greenwash'

2011-06-29T00:09:00.000-07:00

Environmentalists say that polluting corporations only fund Middle East conservation projects as a "greenwash" policy.

The US conservation movement is regularly derided for its willingness to take "dirty money" from Big Oil. Meanwhile, in the Middle East, those same companies are funding significant conservation projects with no such scrutiny.

Exxon Mobil, Dow Chemical and Ford Motors fund conservation projects such as the Emirates Diving Association which protects marine life, IFAW Middle East , which fights the illegal trade in animals - as well as Al Yaal that works to protect Kuwait's marine ecosystems. And all without strong criticism from either environmentalists or conservationists.

Those involved in these projects state that they do not see any problem taking funding from companies which are believed to cause environmental damage - if they are working together to protect nature.

Wahab Al Ghanim, the managing partner of en.v, which is behind the Al Yaal initiative to protect Kuwait's marine environment remarked: "The way I see it, all these companies are not going anywhere, so we may as well try and do something positive together and reverse some of the [environmental] damage that has been done, whether by individuals, companies or governments."

The small environmental movement in the region also means that few activists are raising any questions about the motives of companies behind such projects and whether they are simply being used for "greenwash", where companies feign environmental concern to make themselves look better without doing anything substantive.

Wael Hmaidan, the director of IndyACT- an independent organisation of activists based in Lebanon which campaigns on environmental issues - spoke to Al Jazeera from Bonn, where he is currently taking part in the latest UNFCCC climate negotiations.

"I do think that there are some corporations taking advantage of the fact that the Middle East has a weak environmental and civil society and are bringing projects here that wouldn't be accepted in more aware countries."

"I can't think of any other region that is doing worse than the Middle East in terms of environmental awareness. So, when we talk of recognizing greenwash I would say that there are very few of us who would spot it and criticize it in the region."

To continue reading please go to: http://english.aljazeera.net/indepth/features/2011/06/201162571431133120.html

A region with big climate vulnerability and bigger distractions

2011-06-28T00:18:00.000-07:00

Lisa Friedman, E&E reporter

The third in a series. Click here to read the first story and here for the second in the series.

Climate change may be the last thing that leaders of revolution-riddled countries in the Middle East want to deal with now. But before long, experts say, the problems caused by rising global temperatures could disfigure the land they are fighting over.

From disappearing snow in Lebanon to rising seas threatening Bahrain to flooding in Tunisia and Egypt, climate change already is giving the Middle East and North Africa a good deal to worry about. And those who work in the region note that governments struggling to maintain power and in some cases engaging in all-out warfare with their citizens are losing valuable time needed to adapt.

"Climate change and the environmental agenda is not anywhere in the top priorities of our governments, and wasn't on the agenda since even before the revolution," said Wael Hmaidan, executive director of the League of Independent Activists in Beirut.

Curiously, many governments are embracing renewable energy development even as they ignore adaptation needs. Egypt, Morocco and Jordan all are making serious strides, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been a regional leader in clean energy, and now even other oil producers like Saudi Arabia and Qatar are signaling their interest in solar and other low-carbon energy sources.

Hmaidan and others blame the disconnect on the suppression of free expression and the media. While some governments, like that of the UAE, have shown a sincere desire to address climate change, he said, for others, it's hard to tell if the interest is part of a real move to a low-carbon strategy or a mere jump on the renewables bandwagon for a short-term economic infusion. In the meantime, few countries are taking steps to build resilience or adapt to weather-related climate change impacts.

"You need civil society and free media in order to really change the priorities of the governments," Hmaidan said. "It has to become part of their core economic strategy."

Water stress for 100M people

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the water-scarce and thirsty Middle East is considered one of the regions of the world most vulnerable to climate change impacts. If temperatures increase up to 4 degrees Celsius by 2050, the result could be a 20 to
30 percent water drop-off in countries spanning North Africa and the Mediterranean.

According the World Bank, that could mean as many as 100 million people exposed to water stress. Meanwhile, in urban parts of North Africa, researchers predict that a temperature increase of up to 3 degrees could expose up to 25 million people to flooding.

A recent study on climate change vulnerability rankings from the Center for Global Development found that five Middle Eastern and North African countries ranked in the top 20 at risk from sea level rise by 2050.
They are: Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Tunisia and the United Arab Emirates.

Yet the body of scientific work examining the Middle East and North Africa remains thin, particularly compared to vast studies that have been done in South Asia and Africa. Some chalk up the disparity to the fact that the Middle East is literally betwixt and between. Partially in Asia and partially in Africa, countries in the region are often divided in official U.N. research and not given attention as a whole.

But the other reality, said Josh Busby, an assistant professor at the University of Texas, Austin's Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs who has studied climate and conflict in North Africa, is that many governments in the region don't have the government and scientific apparatus to support climate research. That's particularly true now as countries like Egypt and Tunisia try to find their balance post- revolution and protests continue to be met with state violence in places like Yemen and Syria.

A region with attention deficit

"They just can't pay attention to climate change if they're dealing with transitions to a new regime and have broader political instability," Busby said. "That could just be a short hiccup, but I think at the end of the day, a country like Egypt -- barring a major political cataclysm -- I think they're going to have to have more of the scientific expertise to come to grips with the climate issue."

Scientists in the region agree. In a paper last year for the Arab Forum for Environment and Development (AFED), Egyptian scientist Ibrahim Abdel Gelil warned, "If Arab scientists want to play a role in climate change policy in the Arab world, then they desperately need to offer better-informed science.

"The need to bridge the gap between science and public policy in the Arab region is obvious," he wrote. "The environmental and climate policy is no exception. In a region with a long history of autocratic political systems and under funding of research and development (R&D), the scientific community is lacking both the independence and the resources it needs to drive the public-policy process."

The tide is slowly turning in the Middle East, noted Mohamed El-Ashry, a senior fellow at the U.N. Foundation and a member of the board of trustees of AFED. Slowly but steadily, countries are starting to do their own research to better understand what climate impacts will mean nationally and locally.

In Lebanon, for example, scientists have found that climate change is threatening two of the country's most treasured symbols: its snow and its cedars. If temperatures rise 1 degree Celsius on the coast and 2 degrees inland by 2040 as researchers expect, the tall evergreen cedars might not get the snow they need to thrive. Hmaidan said the losses would be physically and psychologically devastating.

"The cedar is in our flag and the snow is in our flag, so these are part of the Lebanese identity," he said. "As Lebanese, we cannot imagine ourselves without our snow, without our cedar trees. It's as if we're losing our country, just like the small island states."

Wanted: a more immediate timeline

Meanwhile, the World Bank is also starting to tackle climate change in the Middle East in a serious way. Earlier this year, a major study by the bank and the League of Arab States found that climate change could lead to the loss of more than 70,000 square miles of rain-fed agricultural land across the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Iran.

It's a topic on which Arab leaders increasingly are demanding more information, bank officials said. But even then, there remains a persistent message from leaders in the region that the most immediate needs are the most important.

In a recent study of how climate change and natural disasters will affect North African coastal cities, World Bank Urban Cultural Heritage Coordinator Anthony Gad Bigio said researchers purposely both broadened and narrowed their scope. It was important, he said, to study more immediate natural disasters in addition to long-term climate impacts, and the researchers made a conscious decision to keep the focus of the study on coastal impacts by 2030. According to the IPCC, most serious climate impacts are expected to reveal themselves by midcentury.

In doing so, he said, the World Bank was able to learn that cities like Alexandria, Egypt; Tunis, Tunisia; and Casablanca, Morocco, face far more immediate threats from natural disasters than from climate change.
That's something that city leaders can wrap their arms around and get re-elected fixing. Yet flood control measures, upgrading drainage structures and developing flood early-warning systems are precisely the kinds of things that can help lessen the long-term impacts of climate change.

"There's a real continuum between natural disasters and climate change," Bagio said. But, he noted, "We would really make a mistake if we approached these cities only talking about climate change.

"If you go in and only look at climate change, you would be looking at a timeline that is probably further out than the one we looked at.
Engaging policymakers ... it's going to be very difficult to get their attention. Ignoring challenges they've got on their table right now is probably not very conducive."

Resolve Minamata before global mercury treaty named for victims

2011-06-26T23:38:00.000-07:00

55 year-old struggle may provide lessons for Fukushima victims

(Beirut, Lebanon) Expectations are high as the Japanese government holds meetings on 26 June in Minamata to explain why the new mercury treaty should be named the Minamata Convention. The planned meeting triggered visits to Japanese embassies in Czech Republic, India, Philippines, and Thailand urging action on the 55 year-old disaster.

In addition, more than 200 NGOs from 70 countries signed a statement of solidarity with Minamata victims’ groups who insist that the ongoing tragedy must be properly addressed by the Government of Japan and the Chisso Corporation before the global mercury treaty can take the name the Minamata Convention in 2013.

In 2010, then Prime Minister Hatoyama proposed naming the mercury treaty the Minamata Convention, though the proposal was not discussed with Minamata groups prior to its announcement.

As victims of the Fukushima tragedy mount, the Minamata disaster may provide important lessons about compensation, clean-up, and polluter pays; all items that remain unresolved after 55 years in Minamata.

In January, Minamata victims and supporter groups released a statement on the tragedy at the global mercury treaty negotiation meeting in Chiba, Japan calling on the government to take authentic steps towards its resolution (see link below).

Civil society groups around the world support the Minamata victims and survivors.
“We call on the Government of Japan to make a public commitment to resolving the tragedy and to take concrete steps toward a genuine resolution of the tragedy before the treaty is finalized in 2013,” said Mariann Lloyd-Smith, IPEN co-chair. “After 55 years of struggling, we stand in solidarity with the Minamata victims’ groups in calling for a genuine resolution of the problem.”

“Naming the global mercury control treaty the Minamata Convention directly connects the treaty to the tragedy,” said Olga Speranskaya, IPEN co-chair. “If the treaty has this name, then the victims and their legitimate demands must be honored and the lessons of the Minamata tragedy must be applied to the treaty.”

The Link: http://ipen.org/minamata/

For more Photos please go to: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150228544161809.313417.615916808&l=e018659562

For more information:

Dr. Naji Kodeih
Toxics Campaigner
IndyACT - The League of Independent Activist
Phone: 00961-3-315326
Email: najikodeih@gmail.com
Website: www.IndyACT.org

Time for a Robin Hood Tax activists tell Europe: global day of action in 35 countries

2011-06-22T03:05:00.000-07:00

Activists in over 35 countries united today in calling on European heads of state to back a Financial Transaction Tax (FTT) that could raise hundreds of billions to tackle poverty and climate change.

The huge diversity of events, bringing together thousands of organisations, are happening across five continents. From the Great Britain to Ghana, from New Zealand to Nepal this demonstrates the global support for an FTT, popularly known in many countries as a 'Robin Hood Tax'.

The reckless behaviour of the financial sector has a global impact – the economic crisis triggered by financial meltdown has pushed tens of millions of people around the world into poverty and jeopardised commitments to tackling climate change.

The 'global day of action' is designed to put pressure on European leaders meeting in Brussels on 23/24 June. Global political momentum for a FTT has been building - many countries including France, Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, Belgium, Spain, Portugal and Greece are in support, as well as the President of the European Commission, Barroso. In March MEPs voted for a FTT (527 for, 127 against) and last week the French parliament voted unanimously in favour.

It comes as Europe negotiates another bailout for Greece – a bailout that will once again see taxpayers’ money go to cover banks’ bad debts.

Campaigners are calling for Europe to press ahead with a Robin Hood Tax before the G20 summit in November, chaired by France, where President Sarkozy has said he will attempt to create a coalition of countries willing to introduce an FTT.

Wael Hmaidan, Executive Director of IndyACT said:

“This unprecedented action shows that people around the world want the rich banks to pay their fair share to poor societies.

“It is called the Robin Hood Tax, because it ensures a fair transfer of needed support from the rich to the poor. We need Europe to take the lead in this.”

Highlights of the 'global day of action' include:

· In Germany activists dressed as Robin Hoods rolled giant Euro coins down the street. 'Angela Merkel' received this money from Robin Hood as she prepared to depart for the European Council meeting.

· Nurses from across the US gathered in New York for a march and rally to stand up to Wall Street and demand the high rollers in the finance capital of the world pay to rebuild the economy of a nation they have done so much to destroy.

· In Norway a casino/stock exchange installation was set up alongside a “Robin Hood forest” in the centre of Oslo.

· In Brazil a new FTT video was launched entitled: ‘Where is the Money for HIV and AIDS’

· In Italy two flashmobs will enact casino bankers being blocked by several Robin Hoods who ask for 'small change' at two main railway stations in Rome

· In many African countries including: Ghana, Malawi, DRC, Egypt, Kenya and Mali campaigners dressed as Robin Hood and organised photo stunts with Global Day of Action banners alongside submitting lobby letters to their heads of state and EU delegations.

Notes to editors:

· Chancellor Merkel of Germany and President Sarkozy of France continue to push for a European Financial Transaction Tax to raise money for development and climate change.

· President of the European Commission Barroso is now publically in favour of a FTT. An EU Impact Assessment on FTTs is due early July and the European Commission will present a formal legislative proposal after the summer.

· European Parliament voted through a 2nd motion in favour of a FTT on 9th June

For more information:

Ali Fakhry

Communication Director

IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists

Phone: 71-421593

Email: comms@indyact.org

A cultural and environmental art show for the launching of EUNIC in Lebanon

2011-05-14T10:30:00.000-07:00

Beirut, May 14, 2011: In the presence of several EU ambassadors and heads of cultural institutes of Romania, Germany, Italy, France and Britain, and under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture represented by His Excellency Minister Salim Sayegh, the European Union National Institutes for Culture in Lebanon (EUNIC) was launched in collaboration with IndyACT and the Delegation of the European Union in Lebanon, during an environmental and cultural festive day in Sanayeh garden, Beirut, under the slogan “Green Your Culture”.

On 21 January, 2011, five European cultural centers based in Beirut, namely British Council, Goethe Institute, The Romanian cultural Institute, the Italian cultural Institute, and French Cultural Center, signed an agreement to form a national cluster for European Union National Institutes for Culture. EUNIC in Lebanon aims at establishing partnerships and networks amongst the European cultural institutes in any country. In Lebanon, the formation of such a network seeks to achieve a better coordination of the activities between the different European cultural centers, organize joint initiatives, and respond collectively to European open calls for proposals in order to benefit from additional cultural funding.

Dan Stoenescu, President of EUNIC in Lebanon said, “With the cluster being launched today, we hope to facilitate action and cooperation in the cultural field between Lebanon and the EU; we would also be interested in reflecting European culture in the Lebanese cultural arena”.

The environmental and cultural festive day aims at inspiring Lebanese youth to live a greener life through the integration of environmental behavior in their culture. The activities of this day combine culture, art and environmental thinking.

The main event of the day was the international live graffiti art on a 30-meter mural depicting climate change by international and Lebanese artists from Britain, Germany, and Lebanon. The festival included theatrical performances from Romania, Lebanese hip-hop music and dance shows, Romanian classical music shows, a DJ from Italy, and a photo exhibitions on climate change from France and EU.

The graffiti artists painted a mural using paint that is harmless to the environment, sending an eco-responsible message to artists to adopt environment-friendly alternatives. The Romanian theater company Teatrul Ludic opened the festival with a play entitled “The Man - The Trash Can”. Then there was a performance by the Lebanese hip-hop band “Fareeq El Atrash”, which presented environmental songs accompanied by the Lebanese hip-hop dance group “961”. Afterwards, the band “Rebellious Phoenix” performed a unique music show where the members played percussion instruments made from recycled materials. Italian Letizia Renzini was the DJ of the festival.

“There is an urgent need for Arabs and Lebanese to incorporate the environmental behavior in their lives and culture. If it is not adopted right now, life as we know it will cease to exist on this planet”, said Ali Fakhry, IndyACT Communication Director. “Environmental problems such as climate change now have the greatest influence on all requirements of life, namely food, health and economy”, added Fakhry.

IndyACT promotes the adoption of environmentally friendly alternatives by Lebanese and Arab youths in their daily lives. It emphasizes the methods that limit carbon dioxide emissions, the primary cause of climate change. IndyACT also pushes Lebanon and Arab countries to develop long-term plans and policies to combat climate change; as well as working at the United Nations towards a global binding and just agreement that protects the people of the region from the devastating effects of climate change.

Note:

You can find the latest news about the EUNIC on the website of the Agenda Culturel [www.agendaculturel.com] The official web partner of the EUNIC.

For more information:

Ali Fakhry

Communication Director

IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists

Phone: 71-421593

Email: comms@indyact.org

Zero Mercury sampling Tour

2011-05-09T05:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Activists,

Most of you might not know that IndyACT has a campaign called Zero Mercury.

We are working with international coalition to stop the use of the toxic heavy metal, Mercury, by pushing for a new international agreement.

We already did few events to strengthen the role of Arab countries in the international negotiations, including a regional workshop for government negotiators on this issue.

So, our next activity is conducting a sampling tour for Mercury pollution all over Lebanon. We have this machine that can test air samples for Mercury, and we will be going to places all over Lebanon that could be contaminated with Mercury for the next couple of weeks.

So those interested in helping out, and could be free for a day or two to join the tour, please, contact us, so that we can arrange date and logistics.

Dr. Naji, the head of this campaign, will be with you, and train you on using the sampling machine.

For More Info:

Nadine Ajami

Project Manager

IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists

Rmayl, Nahr Street, Jaara Building, 4th floor
Tel: +961-1-447192
Fax: +961-1-448649

Green Your Culture

2011-05-04T02:19:00.000-07:00

EUNIC Lebanon, IndyACT and the Delegation of the European Union in Lebanon
invites you to the event:

“Green Your Culture”

The purpose of the day is to inspire Lebanese youth live a greener lifestyle.

The main event of the day is INTERNATIONAL LIVE GRAFFITI ART ON 30M MURAL

With Lebanese graffiti artists EPS, M3ALIM, PHAT2, FISH, ORAS with his crew ZED and HOREK (RUS), and KBRIT featuring German graffiti artist STONE

The performances of the day will also include:

· Italian DJ, Letizia Renzini

· Rap performance Rap performance by Edd, Chyno and Fz from Fareeq El Atrash

· "The Man - The Trash Can" performed by Romanian TEATRUL LUDIC

· TRASH band

· Romanian Quintet

· Break dancers

Plus:

· Photo exhibition on climate change by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, Olivier

Grunewald, Michel Loup, Philippe Boursellier and Philip Plisson

· Green artisan products

· Organic food and drinks

This event is sponsored by:

· Time Out Beirut

· l'Agenda Culturel

Green Your Culture is the launching event of EUNIC (the European Union National Institutes for Culture) in Lebanon.

The EUNIC presently consists of British Council, Goethe Institute, Romanian Institute, French cultural center and Institute Italiano.

The event is organized in partnership with IndyACT- The League of Independent Activists and the Delegation of the European Union.

Facebook event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=126554547421693

For more info:
Ali Fakhry
Communication Director
IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists
Phone: 71-421593
Email: Comms@indyact.org
Website: www.Indyact.org

IndyACT Holds Parliamentarian Committee Responsible for Delaying the Tobacco Control Law

2011-03-16T06:10:00.000-07:00

Today more than 15 female activists from IndyACT did a direct action next to the Lebanese Parliament while the Administration and Justice Committee held yet another session to discuss the tobacco control law. The law is supposed to have banned smoking in closed public spaces long time ago, but after tens of hearings in the parliamentarian committee, the law has not seen the light yet. The goal of the action was to warn those Parliament Members involved from the influence of the tobacco industry, and to push them in passing the law.

The female activists, who posed as pregnant women, wore t-shirts that say “your smoke is killing my baby” with a picture of an infant on their bellies to signify the deadly impact of second-hand smoke on every Lebanese citizen and their children.

IndyACT had previously exposed various illegal interferences from tobacco industry in the drafting of the tobacco control law. Even one time, a tobacco industry representative attended one of the draft law discussion meetings. Any kind of interference from tobacco companies in drafting this law is considered a breach of article 5.3 of the Framework Convention for Tobacco Control that Lebanon had signed and ratified in 2004. “It is clear that tobacco companies are still trying to influence the law, whereby we still hear unconstructive suggestions being introduced during the meetings of the Administration and Justice Committee, which could weaken and delay the adoption of the draft tobacco control law,” said Wael Hmaidan, Executive Director of IndyACT.

IndyACT has learned that one of its demands, which is putting a pictorial warning that covers 40% of the cigarette pack and changing it periodically, is not mentioned in a clear and effective manner. The significance of the these pictorial health warnings lies in their ability to leave a noticeable impact in the memory of smokers, where studies show that these warnings are more effective than text warnings and lead to the involvement of the emotional side while providing health information.

“Since the ratification of the Framework Convention for Tobacco Control by Lebanon at least 21,000 Lebanese people have died of illnesses directly related to smoking”, said Hmaidan. “The reluctance of the Lebanese Government represented by the Parliamentarian Administration and Justice Committee in passing the tobacco control law only benefits the tobacco industry, and we hold the committee responsible for the additional deaths due to the unnecessary delay”, added Hmaidan.

IndyACT in collaboration with the American University of Beirut and Tobacco Free Initiative is organizing a national campaign demanding a modern law for tobacco control that protects the rights of all citizens by banning smoking in closed public spaces and banning all kinds of advertising or sponsoring for tobacco products, in addition to placing pictorial warnings on cigarette packs as per the international agreement that the Lebanese Parliament has ratified.

- Editor’s Information –

The text of the Framework Convention for Tobacco control (FCTC): http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/2003/9241591013.pdf

The guidelines for implementing article 5.3 of the FCTC, which is related to the interference of the tobacco industry: http://www.who.int/fctc/guidelines/article_5_3.pdf

For more information:

Ali Fakhry – Communications Officer at IndyACT – email: comms@indyact.org, phone: 009611447192

لا للإستثنائات، لا للتمرير، لا للمواربة

2011-03-01T03:01:00.001-08:00

في ظل تصدّر الأخبار الإقليمية العربية والسياسية الحكومية اللبنانية أوليات اهتمامات المرحلة الراهنة، تعكف لجنة الإدارة والعدل النيابية على مناقشة قانون الحدّ من التدخين وتعقد جلستها الثالثة بهذا الخصوص الأربعاء 2 آذار 2011.

في هذا الإطار يهمّ مجموعة الحدّ من التدخين في الجامعة الأميركية في بيروت AUB وجمعية حياة حرّة بلا تدخين T.F.I. وجمعية إندي آكت IndyACTِ أن تشكر اللجنة على إنكبابها على مناقشة القانون في مرحلة هي الأخيرة قبل طرحه على الجلسة العامة للتصويت، وتنبّه إلى عدم الإتاحة لشركات صناعة التبغ وأصحاب المصالح إستغلال إهتمام الناس بالظروف السياسية الراهنة لتمرير ما يرضيها في هذا القانون إذ إنّ مجموعتنا ساهرة على مراقبة أدنى التفاصيل المتعلّقة بالقانون نظراً لدقة هذا الموضوع وتعلّقه المباشر بصحّة الناس.

من هنا نعيد التذكير ببنود العريضة الخاصة بالقانون التي وقّع عليها رؤوساء الكتل النيابية والنقابات كافة وجمعيات المجتمع المدني وعدد كبير من البنوك والمؤسسات الخاصة، والتي إلتزمت عدم تبنّي أي قانون لا يلتزم بالنقاط الأربعة التالية:

1- منع التدخين التام والشامل 100% في الأماكن العامة في مدّة أقصاها ستة أشهر بعد إقرار القانون.

2- منع الإعلانات في الوسائل الإعلامية والإعلانية كافة.

3- منع الرعاية الإعلانية لمنتجات التبغ على أشكالها كافة.

4- وضع التحذير الصحّي المصوّرعلى الوجهتين الرئيسيتين من علب وعبوات منتجات التبغ ليغطي ما لا يقل عن مساحة 40% من مساحة كل وجهة .

وإذ توصّلت اللجنة حتى الآن الى تبنّي منع التدخين التام والشامل في الأماكن العامة ومنع الإعلانات والرعاية الاعلانية إلاّ أنّها إستثنت المطاعم بمنحها مهلة سنة لتطبيق القانون من حين إقراره، كما استثنت الفنادق بالسماح بالتدخين في 10% من مجموع الغرف على أن تكون الغرف في الطابق نفسه. كما علمنا أنّ اللجنة هي في اتّجاه إستثناء الصور من التحذير الصحيّ على علب منتجات التبغ.

عليه، وإذا كان الجميع متّفقا على الضرر الجسيم اللاحق بالصحّة العامة في لبنان والموازنة العامة على السواء من جرّاء التدخين، تطرح مجموعتنا الأسئلة التالية:

أولاً: ما الهدف من إستثناء المطاعم بإعطائها مهلة سنة لتطبيق القانون سوى رعاية الإستفادة المادية السهلة لأصحابها على حساب صحّة روّادها والعاملين فيها؟ علماً أنّ الأرقام العالمية تشير إلى عدم الخسارة في القطاع السياحي إثر تطبيق القوانين خصوصا أنّ الجميع بات على دراية منذ فترة غير وجيزة بأن القانون العتيد سيمنع التدخين تماما. وعليه، يمكن لأصحاب المطاعم التحضير لذلك منذ الآن خصوصاَ أن حملات التوعية الإعلامية وغيرها هيّأت اللبنانيين بشكل كبير لهكذا إجراء.

ثانياً: ما الهدف من إستثناء 10% من غرف الفنادق سوى إرضاء أصحاب الفنادق ما يفتح الباب لهم ولغيرهم المطالبة باستثناءات أكبر وبخروقات في تطبيق القانون لا يمكن ضبطها؟ علما أنّ الفندق لا يمكن اعتباره بأي شكل من الأشكال إلاّ مكاناً عاماً كونه مكان عمل ويجب حماية صحة العاملين فيه.

ثالثاً: ما الهدف من إستثناء الصورة من التحذير الصحي على علب منتوجات التبغ سوى رعاية المصالح المادية والمعنوية لشركات صناعة التبغ وعدم التصدّي لعمليات التهريب عبر الحدود اللبنانية؟ ولماذا عدم إقرار الصورة التحذيرية في القانون وربطها بمرسوم وزاري يعود لمزاجية الوزير إقراره أو عدمه؟ علماً أنّ الصورة دائماً أبلغ من الكلام، وجميع الدراسات تؤكّد أهمية الصورة في التأثير إيجاباً على دماغ المدخّنين وغير المدخّنين لا سيّما الأطفال والأميّين. ففي كندا مثلاً أقرّت الحكومة مؤخراً وضع التحذير المصوّر على مسافة 75 % من علب التبغ من الجهتين. إضافة إلى أنّ الصورة على علب التبغ في لبنان قد تسمح بتمييز العلب المهرّبة من البلدان الأخرى وملاحقة مصادرها، ما يساهم في مكافحة التهريب وبالتالي في دعم اقتراح رفع سعرمنتجات التبغ في لبنان.

وبناء على ما تقدّم، تؤكّد مجموعتنا، وبما تمثّله من ثقل أكاديمي ومدني وشعبي، أنّ كلّ هذه الإستثناءات لا تصبّ إلاّ لمصلحة شركات صناعة التبغ وبالتالي لا يمكننا القبول بها في وقت يتّجه فيه العالم المتحضّر إلى إقرار منع التدخين في الأماكن العامة غير المغلقة، وكان آخرها قرار مدينة نيويورك في الولايات المتحدة الأميركية.

وتبقي مجموعتنا إجتماعاتها مفتوحة لمراقبة سير المناقشات في المجلس النيابي واتخاذ الخطوات اللازمة لضمان إقرار قانون يضمن الصحة العامة دون استثناءات.

الموقعون:

مجموعة البحث للحدّ من التدخين في الجامعة الأميركية في بيروت

جمعية "حياة حرّة بلا تدخين" T.F.I

إندي آكت

IndyACT

Lebanon is acting against incinerators and for the support of the zero waste principle

2010-12-18T23:36:00.001-08:00

More than 100 actions in one day to solve the waste crisis

On the occasion of the “National day of action against incinerators and for zero waste”, individuals and institutions from organized today more than 100 actions all over Lebanon covering all governorates and districts to say that the Lebanese refuse incinerators and that they are ready for a sustainable solution based on the “zero waste” principle to solve the waste crisis in Lebanon. This event, organized by IndyACT and the Lebanese Coalition towards Zero Waste, is part of a national campaign to uphold an effective draft law on the management of solid waste in Lebanon and to stop the incinerators project as a solution to this problem.

The National Day provided the Lebanese with an opportunity to express their position in their own way. Some organized a jazz concert, while others worked on cleaning up waste from a park. In the North, people distributed brochures about the principle of zero waste, and in Saida, a number of individuals demonstrated in front of the giant landfill. Most of the participants held a banner reading “No to incinerators…Zero Waste now”. In addition to all the on ground actions, hundreds of supporters joined the event through signing to the position on the Internet.

Lebanon is currently facing the risk of drowning in its political problems, but at the same time facing the risk of drowning in its waste that is spread in the mountains, valleys, plains, rivers and beaches. This requires an immediate action to tackle the issue where the risk is aggravated year after year and is heading for the worst. Existing temporary solutions to the waste problem are on the verge of collapse, and this could lead to a national crisis especially in Beirut and Mount Lebanon. The Coalition believes that all Lebanese are tired of hearing the same theories about the prompt technological solutions for the disposal of waste, such as waste incinerators. Such solutions only increase the size of the problem instead of reducing it. Therefore, IndyACT and the coalition members believe that it is time to adopt the first solid waste management legislation in Lebanon, which is the only way to reach a sustainable and long-term solution to the waste problem.

“The core of the waste problem is the way we deal with materials and products in the human economy. So to solve this problem, only appropriate legislation can change the way we deal with materials before they become waste”, said Wael Hmaidan, Executive Director of IndyACT. Lebanon is one of the few countries in the world that still do not have a waste management law. However, the Lebanese Ministry of Environment drafted such a law on the issue in 2003 and submitted it this year to the Council of Ministers to study and ratify it. Unfortunately, the draft law is still stuck in the Cabinet; and on the contrary, a project to establish incinerators was adopted to solve the problem.

Waste incinerators are globally known to be the main source of dioxins and other toxic pollutants that cause cancer. Dioxin is considered one of the most dangerous human-produced chemicals and one of the substances that the Stockholm Convention calls for terminating their production. Incineration is the most expensive existing solution and generates a small number of jobs compared to other solutions. The solution proposed by the Lebanese Coalition towards Zero Waste relies on materials management and recovery policy and gradually eliminating non-recoverable materials. There is universal agreement that recycling and re-manufacturing is the most appropriate solution for the disposal of waste from environmental, economic and social perspectives. Most developed countries have established policies and laws aimed at increasing recycling. In addition, the adoption of sorting and recycling techniques stimulates local industry and achieves employment opportunities growth. “National action today demonstrates that Lebanese people have become desperate from the waste problem which began to affect their daily life more than the political problems, and it is time to put an end to it”, said Hmaidan.

IndyACT and other Coalition members call for expediting the endorsement of the solid waste management draft law that is in the cabinet, which is the only solution to the waste problem.

- End -

Photos from the National Day of Action towards Zero Waste will be available at the following link: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=255080&id=615916808&ref=mf

To download Zero Waste files and the Coalition paper: www.slideshare.net/indyact

For information about the Coalition: www.zerowastelebanon.org

For more information: Ali Fakhry – Communication Director – IndyACT

Tel: 71-421593, E-mail: comms@indyact.org

One Day before THE DAY - 19th of December The National Day of Action

2010-12-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Activists,
Tomorrow is our Big Day!!
On the 19th of December we will mark this day forever as the biggest social/environmental movement in Lebanon.

More than 175 actions will take place all over Lebanon in all regions and Caza covering the nation and mobilizing citizens under one unified message: " Not to Incinerators ... Zero Waste NOW "

Raining or not activists will stand once for all to deliver their message to ask the Lebanese government to implement a Zero Waste law NOW.

Media is eager to cover this event and looking forward to put you on their front pages and on TV's, so please if you are intrested in having a TV and Journal media coverage send us an email now with you phone number so we will be able to refer them to you. (this is top urgent)

Please make sure to send us the picture of your actions on: comms@indyact.org once you are back from your action or please upload them directly on the facebook page :
http://www.facebook.com/indyact.org?ref=ts

We will be calling you tomorrow morning to make sure that everything is alright and on the track.

Have a nice day,

Ali Fakhry
Communication Director
IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists
Phone: 71 - 421593
Email: Comms@indyact.org
Website: Zerowastelebanon.org

19 Dec The National Day of Action for Zero Waste

2010-12-16T04:01:00.000-08:00

Below are the actions happening in Lebanon so far:

Tyre: 4
Baabda: 4
Baqaa awsat : 2
Tripoli: 16
Maten:2
Rachaya: 1
Saida: 10
Dounieh:1
Anjar: 1
Zahle:1
Baalback: 3
Akkar: 7
Nabatieh: 8
Hasbaya: 3
Beirut: 16
Aley & Aramoun: 2
Hermel: 1
Bint Jbayl: 1
Shouf:3
Gizine:1
Toura: 1
Ras alayn: 1
Maarakeh:1

If you did not subscribe to do an action till now please do so by sending you full contact details to comms@indyact.org

For more information about Zero Waste please visit:

http://www.zerowastelebanon.org/

نتائج مؤتمر كانكون لتغير المناخ خطوة مهمة لانقاذ الكوكب

2010-12-11T08:05:00.000-08:00

مع إختتام أعمال مؤتمر كانكون لتغير المناخ حُّقِقَّ تقدما مهما نحو التوصل إلى اتفاق عالمي لحل مشكلة تغير المناخ، حيث استطاعت الدول التوصل الى مجموعة من القرارات التي اعادة الثقة بعملية مفاوضات الأمم المتحدة حول تغير المناخ. ولكن أرجأ قادة العالم الاجابة عن بعض الأسئلة الصعبة الى مؤتمر الاطراف القادم في جنوب افريقيا نهاية عام 2011.

السببان الرئيسان لاحراز النجاح المتواضع في المؤتمر كان حسن ادارة الحكومة المكسيكية لعملية المفاوضات قبل وخلال المؤتمر واستعداد معظم البلدان على للتحرك قدما بشكل واضح للتوصل إلى اتفاق عالمي. ولكن قلة قليلة من الدول عرقلت جهود بقية العالم للتوصل إلى إتفاق اهم في كانكون كاليابان وروسيا والولايات المتحدة على وجه الخصوص.

"القرارات في كانكون اعاد الثقة في عملية المفاوضات العالمية كما وضع الاطر والآليات للبدء بالعمل الجدي على الارض وتخفيض انبعاثات ثاني اوكسيد الكربون المسببة بتغير المناخ." صرح وائل حميدان المدير التنفيذي لإندي-أكت. اهم القرارات في كانكون هي انشاء صندوق تمويل جديد لمكافحة تغير المناخ ووضع آلية للتأقلم مع تغير المناخ والاتفاق على نقل التكنولوجيا البيئية من الدول المتطورة الى الدول النامية وخفض الانبعاثات من جراء خسارة الغابات.

لذلك ترى إندي-أكت بأنه حان الوقت ليبدأ لبنان والكثير من البلدان الأخرى في المضي قدما في التخفيف من إدمانهم على إستعمال النفظ والفحم الحجري. إن تكلفة التأخير في العمل على الموضوع هي حادة وخطيرة على لبنان الذي يعاني من الزيادة في حرائق الغابات في كل عام. من المعروف أن تغير المناخ يزيد من الظروف الجوية التي تسمح بانتشار الحرائق بسرعة، وهنالك دلائل علمية تفيد بأن تغير المناخ هو السبب الرئيسي لزيادة الحرائق في لبنان وفلسطين وروسيا وجنوبي أوروبا واسترالي وغيرها. لذلك إذا لم يتم وقف تغير المناخ، فإن لبنان سيفقد جميع غاباته مهما كانت الجهود لمكافحة الحرائق أو إعادة زرع الاشجار.

"حان الوقت لجميع الدول ان تضع خطط طويلة الامد للتوصل الى اقتصاد خال من الكربون وحماية شعوبها من آثار تغير المناخ"، أضاف حميدان. كلما تقدمت الدول بالعمل ضد تغير المناخ بطريقة أسرع كلما ساهمة في حل المشكلة بأقل تكلفة ممكنة. "العمل على التوصل الى اتفاقية عالمية جديدة حول تغير المناخ لم ينتهي بعد، ونحن بدأنا بالاستعداد للمحطة المقبلة في جنوب إفريقيا"، ختم حميدان.

معلومات للمحرر:

تابع فريق متخصص من 8 خبراء في إندي آكت المفاوضات في كانكون وهم على أتم الإستعداد لتزويدكم بالمعلومات والمقابلات الصحفية..

للمزيد من المعلومات:

علي فخري- المسؤول الإعلامي في اندي-اكت

هاتف: 71421593

بريد الكتروني: comms@indyact.org

فايسبوك: Facebook.com/Indyact Org

تويتر:Twitter.com/IndyACT

Some ideas for the National Day of Action

2010-12-08T03:57:00.000-08:00

Activists, friends and supporters

Thank you very much for your support and enthusiasm that you are showing for the National Day of Action on the 19th of December.
Let me update you with some of your fellow organizers ideas.

Wall building and a sit in:

Maxim-e Hourani

On this occasion, I will be launching a project that consists of empty Plastic water bottles that I have been collecting for more than 6 months.

The 100 more bottles will be used to construct a wall garden on the balcony of my apartment as an initiative to show a creative and productive way of recycling waste.

on the 19th, I will be filing a room in my house(attached image of the setting dating last June) and I will be doing a sit in to mark this day.

Recycling day:

Clara Atallah

For this occasion, I initiated friends of mine to recycling, and also we made a group to pick up the garbage from the streets on the 16th of December (we are waiting for the ok of ra2iss el baladiyyé of sin el fil) with friends of mine...
NO TO INCINERATORS...YES FOR ZERO WASTE!

Photo shot:

Riham Miri

Hello!

I live in the South; Saida

I am having a photo-shot along with my grade 3 students from Saida Generations School (orphanage welfare society) in front of Saida waste dumb holding a banner that says:"Zero Waste NOW!

Also there is a plan of an experimental play at Hamra about Zero Waste and a diving photo shot in Tyre.(details to be sent soon)

These are some ideas shared by our fellow activists; we are waiting for your idea, please share them as soon as you can.

Salam,

Ali Fakhry
Communication Director
IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists
Phone: 71-421 593
Email: comms@indyact.org

Updates and requests for the National Day of Action

2010-12-07T00:45:00.000-08:00

Dear Activists,

I hope everything is good at your end.
Today marks the 7th and in 13 days we will have our BIG DAY the National Day of Action for ZERO WASTE.
Most of you have sent us their contacts details i.e emails and direct phone numbers, if you did not please do so asap so we can call you to coordinate the work.
Now there is several things we need to make sure that are happening and some information to ask about.

1 - Make sure that:

on the day of action you take a clear picture of you along with your partners holding a banner near to any dumb or trash bins where you live with one of the following slogans.

English :

Incinerators KILLS Zero Waste NOW!
No to Incinerators
Zero Waste NOW!

عربي:

لا للمحارق٫ نحو صفر نفايات الآن
لا للمحارق
صفر نفايات الآن

Or you can use the banner attached, printed out and add your logo or area/school/institution name next to the Zero Waste coalition logo.

The picture have to be sent to us on the spot so we can provide the media with it , uploaded on our websites, partners website and social media platforms.

Make sure that you insert the description on the action in the body of the email along with the area name and direct contact.

Make sure that you keep your mobile line open on the day of action so we could coordinate.

What will we provide you with:

Stickers for Zero Waste.
Fliers to distribute before the day of action.
Brochures explaining what is Zero Waste.
A media team coming to film and photograph most of your actions.

Kindly contact us as soon as you can so we can agree how to deliver the above materials.

2 - Information:

We need to know exactly where you live so we can coordinate the work accordingly, for an example Beirut, Verdun or South; Nabatiyeh, North; Akkar, Beqaa; Riyak.
We need to know what are the logistical problems you are having so we can look into them and try to work it out.
We need to know the description of the actions you are doing before hand so we can inform local and national media about it which might be interested in covering them.

Exp:

We are having a photo-shot along with our friends at School/Uni/work in front of a waste dumb holding a banner that says xxxxx.
We are organizing an experimental concert for the Zero Waste National Day of Action at Hamra.
We are organizing a recycling day in our city/village in the National Day of Action.

For more Information please contact:

Ali Fakhry
Communication Director
IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists
Cell : 71-421593
Email: Comms@indyact.org
Website: www.IndyACT.org

To join the day, please go to our event on Facebook and confirm attending : http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=173281956020847

An idea that could save lives By our GCCA partners

2010-12-05T23:47:00.000-08:00

Continuing with the theme of covering some of the 'hot topics' at this week's Cancun climate summit, I wanted to delve into an issue that Oxfam is hoping to see progress on during the coming week or so – international climate finance. Not the most inspiringly named topic, I know. But stick with me now – it's not as dry as it sounds.

If you were to break down Oxfam's climate change campaign (and I'm probably going to upset some of my colleagues in the policy team by simplifying the issue like this), it could roughly be separated into two demands. Firstly, greenhouse gas production must be reduced internationally, with developed countries cutting their emissions first and fastest. And secondly, poor communities should be provided with support.

Finance is connected to the second of these issues. With climate change undermining progress on tackling poverty, poor communities must be provided with funds (ie. the finance) to help them adapt as climate change kicks in.

In Bangladesh, floods are getting higher, lasting longer and threatening more lives. In response, local people are moving their homes onto higher foundations. In areas of north east Thailand, rainy seasons have become unpredictable with a devastating effect on rice production. With support from Oxfam, people are fighting back. But for every success story, there are many more cases where climate change is pushing communities backwards.

Rich country governments, with more wealth and having polluted for longer, agreed in Copenhagen to establish a climate fund. Put simply, it's a pot of cash to help communities avoid the worst effects of climate change – with institutions like the World Bank estimating that developing countries will need between $70bn-$100bn a year between 2010 and 2050.

That's a big figure. And though generating that kind of amount of money will be no walk in the park, innovative ways of raising cash do exist.

Ideas such as taxing aviation and shipping – two industries that escape current legislation because they pollute across national borders – could raise $20 billion a year.

Or ideas like the Robin Hood Tax – a tiny tax on the banking sector that could raise hundreds of billions worldwide, a portion of which could go toward tackling climate change.

Throughout the Cancun summit, Oxfam will be continuing to push for the Fund. Working to make sure that it's set up in a way that meets the needs of the most vulnerable. You can help add an injection of political will by taking action here.

In Bolivia, ancient farming techniques are helping protect crops from more severe drought

Article by Richard Casson

Climate Change Seminar at Beirut - Preparations to Mexico COP16

2010-11-24T00:49:00.000-08:00

IndyACT organizes an international climate policies seminar in collaboration with British Embassy and Environment Ministry

Beirut – November 24, 2010: A few days before the start of the Sixteenth Conference (COP16) of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP16) in Cancun, Mexico, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, the British Embassy and the Mexican Embassy, IndyACT organized a seminar on international climate change policies that are currently being negotiated within the United Nations to discuss the latest developments in this area.

During the seminar, the Ministry of Environment presented Lebanon's position on climate change, while British Ambassador, Frances Guy, presented her country's point of view concerning climate change. The representative of the Mexican Ambassador explained the expectations of Mexico from the meeting in Cancun. Participants in the event included the ambassadors of Denmark, Holland, Australia, Korea and Germany, and representatives from other embassies. Also attending the event were representatives of a number of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) active in the field of climate change, UN agencies, and experts in the field.

IndyACT also launched a paper on climate change policies, which show that the Cancun conference in Mexico would not be a conclusion to the current negotiation process, but a very important step to maintain faith in this process and to reach a strong and binding global agreement. But in the event of its failure, the repercussions will be critical to the negotiation process in general, which would have catastrophic impacts on Arab States which will only be able to obtain their rights through the United Nations negotiation process.

The seminar also showed how the Lebanese Ministry of Environment has started to take serious steps in the United Nations climate change negotiations through the formulation of a progressive official position and playing a stronger role in the negotiation process. The ministry is also coordinating with and involving concerned civil society organizations in this process. It is also developing a long-term national plan to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, the primary cause of climate change. Nevertheless, the Lebanese Ministry of Environment could play a greater role including leading the Arab countries position.

“Lebanon must take advantage of available opportunities to improve its climate change action and the current negotiations process, such as joining the Mediterranean Climate Change Initiative. Such initiatives and alliances can provide the Lebanese state with an important source of funding for its climate change plans”, said Wael Hmaidan, IndyACT Executive Director.

“We are less than a week away from Cancun meeting, and we need to have progress. For the United Kingdom, we would like to see progress on the issue of mitigation and measurement, reporting and verification”, said British Ambassador to Lebanon Frances Guy.

A team of experts on climate change policies from the global league of activists, IndyACT, will be heading to Cancun, Mexico next week to participate in the negotiation process and to push Arab countries towards adopting a clear and strong position with regard to climate change and to play an active and positive role in the negotiation process.

Incinerators are a mistake, Lebanon needs a strong Waste Management Law

2010-11-05T05:38:00.000-07:00

Beirut – November 5, 2010: Today the global league of activists, IndyACT, launched its “Zero Waste” exhibition which will tour the Lebanese territories to recommend the principle of “Zero Waste” as a solution to Lebanon’s waste problem. The exhibit also displays the possible risks of incineration technologies that the Lebanese government is planning to establish.

The exhibition will visit several districts and governorates and will include awareness illustrations on the danger of incineration and the feasibility of the “zero waste” principle (environmentally and economically), as well as films and educational games, and sections that show how recycling, sorting and manufacturing products from waste could take place.

“The zero waste principle needs the support of local communities to be implemented, which is why we are doing this exhibition, but these communities will not be able to do so without the support of the government through a solid waste management law”, said Wael Hmaidan, Executive Director of IndyACT.

The Ministry of Environment has been trying to pass a law on this issue since the middle of this year, but the law is still caught in the legislative process. IndyACT supports the efforts of the Ministry of Environment concerning the law, but at the same time sees that incineration is a dangerous technology that could cause economic, social and environmental problems in Lebanon.

It is scientifically proven that incinerators are a main source of dioxins. Dioxins are the most dangerous human-made carcinogens that cause congenital malformations at birth and respiratory and lung diseases. Incinerators also produce a large mixture of other toxic materials such as nanoparticles and heavy metals. Incineration is also the most expensive method to treat solid waste.

“The Lebanese government has a golden opportunity to be among the first leading nations in this field and to be an example to be followed by nationally adopting the principle of zero waste and ensure maximum utilization of resources existing in our waste”, added Hmaidan.

More than fifty civil society NGOs in Lebanon have decided to join the “Lebanese Coalition towards zero waste” to press the Lebanese government to adopt the principle of “zero waste” as a substitute for waste incinerators that are meant to be established.

Information to the editor:
During the months of November and December, the “zero waste” exhibition will be in: Baalbek, Rayak, Tripoli, Zgharta, Halba, Jbeil, Nabatiyeh, Tyre, Sidon, and Shouf and will conclude the tour in Beirut.

Photos and videos of this event are available at: www.indyact.blogspot.com
For more information:
Ali Fakhry – Communication Director – IndyACT
Tel: 71421593
E-mail: comms@indyact.org
Facebook: Facebook.com / IndyACT Org
Twitter: Twitter.com / IndyACT

IndyACT Assists Arab Governments in Mercury Control

2010-11-04T03:04:00.000-07:00

Beirut – November 4, 2010: With the support of the International Zero Mercury Working Group, IndyACT is organizing an Arab consultative workshop in Beirut on 4 and 5 November 2010, in preparation for the second round of international negotiations on establishing a global and legally binding instrument on mercury.

The workshop is attended by delegates from more than ten Arab countries in addition to the League of Arab States, and representatives from a large number of Arab and Lebanese NGOs active in the field of chemicals management and following up global mercury negotiations, as well as a number of foreign and Lebanese experts.

This activity is part of IndyACT’s initiative to coordinate between various Arab countries and Arab non-governmental organizations. IndyACT attended the first round of negotiations held in Stockholm in June 2010, where Arab delegations expressed positive public positions and endorsed the establishment of a global and legally binding mercury treaty, and expressed their willingness to move forward positively in the negotiations to reach this goal.

“Mercury is a toxic substance that poses a serious threat to human health and the environment, and therefore it is necessary to keep pace with international negotiations on this matter with the required seriousness from the beginning”, said Dr. Naji Kodeih, IndyACT's Zero Mercury campaigner. “Each country should be prepared to ensure that these negotiations will protect its society from this dangerous substance”, added Kodeih.

Non-governmental organizations, including IndyACT, are preparing to play an active role in the negotiation process through international alliances in order to achieve the major objectives of the treaty, i.e. the protection of human health and the environment from the risks of mercury. Arab governments need to make sure that the negotiations do not sway in the interest of some advanced industrial countries at the expense of developing and Arab countries or vice versa, in terms of effects and implications on economic and social situations. Achieving this requires the follow-up of bilateral communications, research and consultation at negotiation groups’ level and at the Arab level in general under the umbrella of the Arab League.

For more information:
Ali Fakhry – IndyACT’s Communication Manager -
E-mail: comms@indyact.org, Tel: 00961-1-447192, Mobile : 00961-71-421593

Two conservation experts from IndyACT, attending the 10th Conference of Parties of the Convention of Biological Diversity

2010-10-27T05:33:00.000-07:00

Two conservation experts from IndyACT, are attending the 10th Conference of Parties of the Convention of Biological Diversity.

This summit, which will take place in Japan is considered the most important meeting on biodiversity since the first Earth Summit in 1992.

It is expected that in this conference, countries will set a new 10-year strategy on biodiversity conservation, decide on how to share all the genetic resources in all species, agree on defining all the areas that need to be protected in the high-seas and oceans, among many others.

IndyACT is hoping that countries would be able to agree on the goal of halting all biodiversity loss by 2020.

Nevertheless, it will not be easy, especially that now between 40 and 100 species go extinct every day, never to be back again.

Our team is focusing its work on the role of Arab countries in these negotiations, and they are pushing them to take strong positions, especially in relation to marine conservation. We are demanding that 20% of all seas and oceans to be protected by 2020.

For more information please send an email to : whmaidan@indyact.org or soumar@indyact.org

IndyACT on the international day to act against climate change 10/10/10 is coordinating 85 actions around the MENA region

2010-10-10T10:21:00.000-07:00

IndyACT the League of Independent Activists in Lebanon on the international day to act against climate change 10/10/10 is coordinating 85 actions around the MENA region as a part of the 350.org network.

Activists from: Egypt, Tunisia, Iraq, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain, Iran, Qatar and Occupied Palestine held several symbolic actions to show the whole world and the political leaders of their nations that they care.

Pictures of actions are being sent,uploaded and showed all over the world to deliver a clear message that on the international day to act against climate change we are all united to save the planer earth.
Photos and description of actions are on : http://www.350.org/

For more information:
Ali Fakhry
Communication Director
Email: comms@indyact.org
Phone: 71 - 421 593

A week full of excitement and hard work!

2010-09-22T01:55:00.000-07:00

This week was extremely busy and its only Wednesday!

With the Zero Waste coalition preparing their official position paper, the development department building materials, the Anti Racism Movement doing urgent intervention for the sake of an Malagasy migrant worker, the anti sexual harassment campaign Salwa being screened in cinema festivals, coordinating the global day of action on 10/10 in all the MENA region, wining the Peace One Day football tournament and sending our team of experts to Egypt to advise the Arab League on the Convention of Biological Diversity the office seems like a bee hive for god's sake!

Below is the latest updates sent by our experts in Egypt:

On Sunday IndyACT gave a presentation to the Arab League in their preparatory meeting for the Conference of the Parties to the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD COP). For the non-technical people, IndyACT was suggesting ideas on how Arab governments can preserve their marine resources.

After an hour of presentation by Indy experts, IndyACT received positive responses from country delegates. We will be cooperating further with Arab governments and the Arab League to achieve a healthy marine ecosystem in the region.

We will be following on the results, but it looks very promising, and we definitely made big impact.

Interested in joining our team???
Please send us an email at : comms@indyact.org

The Adventures of Salwa مغامرات سلوى , IndyACT's Anti Sexual Harasment campaign fund raising event.

2010-09-07T00:20:00.000-07:00

Time:
September 12 · 9:00pm - 10:30pm

Location:
Our sister organization Nasawiya's office Achrafieh - Shahrouri St - Braidi Bldg - Facing Laure Mghayzel Highschool, Beirut, Lebanon

Next Sunday September 12, Jagual EL USEK,Salwa, and many other typical Lebanese characters will be present at Nasawiya our sister organization.

Michelle Keserwany (and her famous guitar), along with her sister Noel will be performing a bunch of new cool smart feminist songs at our very own Nasawiya space!

So come dance,drink,have fun, and contribute to our Salwa's Anti harassment campaign!

Michelle doesn't only understand the true character of the typica...l USEK jagual, she's talented and inspired enough to write a sarcastic yet lovely song about him, amongst many other songs she's written about domestic workers, Lebanese women etc...( Listen to " Jagual EL USEK " :http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PasLc-YG46E)

This event is a fundraiser for Adventures of Salwa Anti harassment campaign! Dont miss it!

For more info: f.salka@indyact.org

The " Zero Waste" coalition members

2010-08-04T03:13:00.000-07:00

Greenpeace and LAU - Moustapha Itani

Train/train - Elias Maalouf

Green Orbit - Chawki Bahmad

SADA - Mahmud Jbara

Auxilia - Zalfa Raad Demian

A Rocha - Jessica Ghantous

Ray NAMA - Salim Khalife

HAD - Ali Nassereddine

Arcenciel - Elias Bechara

A Rocha - Mirna Chaaya Safi

YMCA - Patricia Sfeir

AFDC - Elias Chnais

SITA - Claude Feghali

Salam - Joseph Matta

Mister Tanak - Shadi Sadek

Sinacle Libanais pour la Protection de l' Environment - Charbel Kharat

For People and Nature Association - Adeeba Al Khansa

Pontifical Mission - Michel Constantine

Lebanese Sporting Club Association - Ali Baydoun

Working Women and Single Mothers Association - Sabrine Abed Khaled

Association for the Care of Epileptic Patients in Lebanon - Manar Khalil Swan

T.E.R.R.E - Paul Abi Rached

For More Information:

Ali Fakhry
Communication Director
IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists
Email: comms@indyact.org
Website: www.indyact.org
Blog: Indyact.blogspot.com
Facebook: IndyACT Org
Phone: 71 - 421 593
Office : 01 - 447 192

“Zero Waste”: a new concept spreading around the world as a final solution to waste

2010-07-26T04:29:00.001-07:00

An international conference organized by IndyACT recommends a Zero Waste law:

Organized by the global league of activists, IndyACT, in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA), and in the presence of ministers, deputies and experts from around the world, the International Conference on the “Zero Waste” principle as a solution to the problem of waste in Lebanon and in the Arab world was launched.

During the conference a number of experts gave lectures showing how several authorities around the world have started to adopt the “Zero Waste” principle and how other waste management policies have failed, especially incineration technology. Among the most important speakers was Kevin Drew, coordinator of the “Zero Waste” project in the city of San Francisco, which adopted this principle as a solution to its waste problem.

IndyACT also launched a new report explaining how Arab countries can apply the principle of “Zero Waste”, while the Minister of Environment identified the progress in Lebanon’s new draft legislation on waste management.

Solid waste is one of the most important challenges facing developing countries, where in most cases, waste is landfilled or incinerated, leading to contamination of water or dissemination of carcinogenic pollutants in the air.

This conference comes at a time when the Lebanese government is trying to solve the problem of solid waste before it becomes a social and environmental catastrophe due to the lack of space to dump this waste in the near future.

One of the proposed solutions is incineration, despite its failure in the past in Lebanon and in several countries around the world.

“If we decide to proceed with the adoption of incinerators as a solution to the problem of solid waste, then we would be burning our money, loosing job opportunities, while producing carcinogenic and deadly chemical fumes”, said Wael Hmaidan begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting, Executive Director of IndyACT. “Lebanon is one of the few countries around the world that does not have a law on solid waste management, and the waste problem cannot be solved without such a legislation”, said Hmaidan.

“Zero Waste” is a new progressive principle adopted by many institutions and regions around the world such as Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, the city of San Francisco in the United States, most of the counties in New Zealand and many others as both a final and profitable solution to the problem of solid waste.

The “Zero Waste” principle aims at managing materials from the extraction stage down to the stage of manufacturing, packaging, shipping, sales and reprocessing.

This is different from the principle of recycling in that it relies on planning to ensure the reutilization of manufactured goods even before they are produced.

It is worth noting that the “Zero Waste” principle is the only solution to achieve sustainability and complete protection from the environmental damage caused by waste; it is the least costly solution, provides employment in the field of solid waste treatment, supports local industry and reduces imports of products.

“We remain hopeful that Zero Waste would form the heart and soul of your country’s waste law and provide a model that other countries in the Arab region and the rest of the world can learn from and emulate”, said Emmanuel Calonzo, the international coordinator of GAIA.

IndyACT is calling that the Lebanese state to be globally the first and leading country to adopt a “Zero Waste” strategy and to develop a progressive law to implement it.

Note for the editor:

- Part of this conference was funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

Publications are available on : www.slideshare.net/indyact

For more information, please contact:

Ali Fakhry, Communication Director
Phone - Fax: +961-1-447192
Mobile: +96171421593
E-mail: comms@indyact.org

IndyAct's Anti-Racism Movement Takes Action: Exposing Racism Against Migrant Workers at Swimming Pools

2010-07-13T04:50:00.000-07:00

For more information in Arabic and for the press release: http://ethiopiansuicides.blogspot.com/2010/07/blog-post_5814.html
For more information in English and for the press release: http://ethiopiansuicides.blogspot.com/2010/07/swimming-pool-denies-entry-to-migrant.html
Join our Facebook Page to stay updated: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Anti-Racism-Movement/123396574358452

IndyACT launches “Anti Racism Movement” in Lebanon

2010-07-13T02:08:00.001-07:00

July 13, 2010: A group of independent activists organized a direct action on a number of touristic resorts that adopt racist policies towards migrant workers in Lebanon on the basis of color, race, and class.

Some of these resorts had put up signs asking its customers not to bring radio, food and maids to the resort.

After conducting several field researches and verifying the rules and procedures of the resorts, activists went to the resorts identified as the most racist accompanied by an activist of the Madagascari citizenship.

The woman was denied entry by the administration of the resort and no valid reasons were provided.

"We have monitored more than 15 resorts that follow the same traditions and practices of racism against non-whites in Lebanon, reminiscent of the era of apartheid in South Africa, blatant racism in the United States," said the campaign's spokesperson at IndyACT, Aimee Razanjay.

"The action today is the beginning of a series similar actions to monitor and document such practices and to inform the Lebanese society of the extent of their contribution to perpetuating the racist system in Lebanon," added Aimee.

Incidents of this sort have recently been exacerbated where customers are prevented from entering because of skin color or prejudice and definitely because of the weakness and/or indifference of civil society actors in dealing with these phenomena and the absence of a criminalizing and binding law that affects these racist practices in Lebanon.

"The Lebanese government should take the initiative to fine those resorts that are engaged with such policies going against the UN Charter of human rights, in particular the item relating to equality," said Ali Fakhry, Communication Officer of the Anti Racism Movement in IndyACT.

"This move is an explicit notification to the rest of the resorts that there are activists not willing to stay silent anymore, "said Fakhry.

The Anti Racism Movement is preparing for several events and actions advertised in a timely manner designed to support, advocate and empower migrant domestic workers in Lebanon.

For more information, please contact:
Ali Fakhry, Communication Officer, tel. – fax: +961-1-447192, mobile: +961-71-421593, e-mail: comms@indyact.org

Videos of this event will be published on:

http://ethiopiansuicides.blogspot.com/

IndyACT Referees Final Session onTobacco Controle Law in Front of the Parliament: “Don’t Play With Our Health”

2010-07-09T00:37:00.000-07:00

Beirut – 09 July, 2010: While Lebanon waits for the final football match of the World Cup, IndyACT awaits the final decision on the Tobacco control law currently being considered by the Parliament. But IndyACT couldn’t just sit still and observe, and so intervened by refereeing the final “match” about this law in the parliament. Activists from the League of Independent Activists – IndyACT, in a swift move, performed a peaceful action in front of the Lebanese Parliament in light of the fact that negotiations about the law were about to conclude, just like the world cup.

The ten activists from IndyACT organized a football match before the parliament, where the first team represented the international tobacco companies, the second team represented the Chamber of Deputies, and the ball was none other than the Tobacco Control Law currently under discussion in the Parliament.

Seconds after the beginning of the game, referee IndyACT raised the red card expelling the tobacco companies’ team from the game because of its unethical infiltration and illegal blocking of the other team. This was welcomed by viewers and fans representing civil society, public health experts and academics, who chanted along with the vuvuzellas "towards complete smoking prevention in enclosed public places!" and "the Lebanese parliament, champion of the world in prohibiting smoking in enclosed public places!”

Currently the Parliamentary Committee on Administration and Justice is discussing the bill to reduce tobacco usage, and is about to reach the end of discussions. It is expected that the committee will be finalizing a draft law next week, and then will bring the law to the plenary for a vote.

"Until now, the tobacco companies are winning 1:0 because the current draft law does not prohibit smoking in enclosed public places, but only divides the spaces between smokers and non-smokers. This has been proved by experts to be dangerously ineffective and can’t be applied in Lebanon," said Wael Hmaidan begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting Executive Director of IndyACT.

IndyACT, and its allies the American University of Beirut and Tobacco Free Initiative , are determined to make sure that the final whistle will not be blown before the parliament passes a law to ensure the protection of the health and the economy of the Lebanese

-- end --

For more information, please contact:
Ali Fakhri, Communication Officer, tel. – fax: +961-1-447192, mobile: +961-71-421593, e-mail: comms@indyact.org

IndyACT sends a direct message to the global tobacco companies “We still have our eyes on you”

2010-06-30T04:01:00.000-07:00

Beirut - June 30, 2010: Today, ten activists from the league of independent activists – IndyACT carried out a peaceful action in front of the offices of Philip Morris, the largest tobacco manufacturer in the world. The activists warned the company as well as other international tobacco companies from directly or indirectly interfering in the drafting of a new law on smoking control that is currently being discussed by the Lebanese Parliamentary commission for administration and justice.

The activists from IndyACT stood in front of the entrance to the offices of Philip Morris in Sodeco building, where they hanged a sign for the company that read: “Philip Morris: lobbying governments” in order to focus the attention of Lebanese citizens on the company’s history, which is full of negative influence on governments and laws on issues relating to smoking around the world. Activists also wore giant eyes and carried banners reading: “Tobacco companies, we are watching you” and “out of our parliament” to warn these international companies such as Philip Morris, British American Tobacco and Japanese Tobacco of attempting to weaken the law that is currently being discussed in the parliament.

Lebanon is bound to implement the “WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control” which was ratified by the Parliament and the Cabinet in 2005. The Convention includes two clear paragraphs on the risk of interference from tobacco companies. In the preamble, the Convention recognizes “the need to be alert to any efforts by the tobacco industry to undermine or subvert tobacco control efforts and the need to be informed of activities of the tobacco industry that have a negative impact on tobacco control efforts”. The Convention further specifies in article 5.3 that “in setting and implementing their public health policies with respect to tobacco control, Parties shall act to protect these policies from commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry in accordance with national law”. This article even has detailed guidelines that have been submitted to the company during the event.

Last February, when IndyACT knew that representatives of the tobacco companies were participating in the parliament meetings to discuss the draft Law on Tobacco Control, the organization carried out a peaceful movement in front of the Lebanese parliament, demanding that the companies step out of the commission meetings and stop their attempts to weaken the law. After this action, tobacco companies stopped attending the commission meetings, but IndyACT has enough reason to believe that tobacco companies are still trying to influence the law in indirect ways. “During our meetings with several deputies to discuss the new tobacco law, we knew that tobacco companies have been contacting a number of MPs”, said Wael Hmaidan, Executive Director of IndyACT. “This act is suspicious and we consider it to be a breach of the principles of the International Convention on Tobacco Control”, added Hmaidan.

IndyACT carries out, in cooperation with the American University of Beirut and the “Tobacco Free Initiative” association, a campaign to pass a law that completely bans smoking in public places and fully meets the conditions of the Global Framework Convention. These three institutions have launched a petition on the subject at the beginning of June, which has been signed by more than one hundred societies, associations and foundations during the first week. “Deputies now face a crucial test. Will they support the views of experts, scientific and educational institutions and civil and international society by fully banning smoking in enclosed public spaces, or will they serve the interests of tobacco companies?”, concluded Hmaidan.

- End of press release -

For more information, please contact:
Ali Fakhry, Communication Director,
Phone - Fax: +961-1-447192,
Mobile: +96171421593,
E-mail: comms@indyact.org
Photos from this event will be available on: http://indyact.blogspot.com

200 young people ask everyone to join the global movement against climate change

2010-06-26T02:37:00.000-07:00

Beirut – 27 June 2010: Today more than 200 young people from all over Lebanon did a symbolic action on Ramlet El Bayda Beach in Beirut calling upon individuals, institutions, and governments to join the global effort to combat climate change.

The 200 activists from Merci Corps, within a scheme of local initiatives though local municipalities and the League of Independent Activists – IndyACT, drew with their bodies “20:12” on the Lebanese flag.

This is a preparatory step to launch IndyACT’s new regional campaign “20:12” that will take place on the 10th of October on the Global Day for Action against Climate Change.

This campaign, which will be held in 10 Arab countries, relies mainly on the efforts of institutions and individuals to take simple steps in reducing carbon dioxide emissions – the primary reason for climate change – and to call upon their governments to accelerate their efforts in adopting similar and serious plans to support these efforts.

Because of that, IndyACT will launch an extensive publicity campaign coupled with actions and activities to shed light on environmentally friendly practices that these individuals can do with the support of their governments to directly contribute to saving the planet.

“The action that will be held today is included in the priorities and goals of the organization especially that it involves young people in a global issue whose results will affect everyone and in all parts of the world. This action falls within a series of programs that Mercy Corps is conducting in 7 different countries of the world and is working to disseminate in others.

Mercy Corps hopes that young people will be a powerful force in their communities and will participate in making decisions that will affect them and their communities, and will be able to have opportunities to contribute to the development of their countries,” said Director of Mercy Corps Lebanon Stephen Healy.

Climate change is considered the biggest threat to mankind on the planet. According to UN reports, climate change threatens to kill and displace over a billion people by 2050.

The only solution to climate change is the reduction of burning of oil and coal which are the primary source of carbon dioxide, and relying on renewable and safe energy such as wind and solar energy.

After over two years of trying, world governments are still negotiating to reach a global agreement that will save us from climate change.

Negotiations were expected to end in Copenhagen end of last year. But despite progress, states could not agree and therefore extended the negotiations another year ending in Mexico at the end of this year.

“Although there is no substitute for the need to reach a strong global agreement on climate change, we cannot wait until that happens; we have to start acting now as individuals, institutions, and governments to reduce our addiction to oil and coal as a source of energy” said Wael Hmaidan Executive Director of IndyACT.

“We call upon everyone to join this campaign before its launch in October so that it will be a coming from all and does not belong to any individual and institution,” added Hmaidan.

For more information, please contact:
Ali Fakhri Communication officer, tel. – fax: +961-1-447192, mobile: +961-71-421593, e-mail: comms@indyact.org

Jobs Opening at IndyACT/ Policy Campaigner

2010-06-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

Dear All,
Bellow you can find the Job Description for the Communication Officer that we are offering at IndyACT.

Please send your CV to Admin@indyact.org CC: Soumar@indyact.org

Kindly note that a motivation letter is required and any incomplete application will not be considered.

Job Statement:

IndyACT is a global league of independent environmental, cultural and social activists that works for a healthy, safe, and active planet.

IndyACT is mainly focusing its operations in the Arab World.

IndyACT has already established several campaigns in the Arab region, especially Lebanon, on issues such as climate change, resource management, marine and coastal protection, youth empowerment, biodiversity conservation, domestic workers rights, banning smoking in public areas and women’s rights.

The organization’s motto is “Passion with Professionalism” and applies it in all its campaigns.

During the past three years IndyACT successfully campaigned and changed Arab policy on climate change.

It also achieved several wins in biodiversity conservation, women’s rights, youth empowerment among others.

IndyACT is now recognized as a leading advocacy organization in the region and in international forum.

IndyACT is currently seeking a Policy Campaigner to develop and implement advocacy campaigns in the Arab region and international forum.

The Policy Campaigner will be working on a number of campaigns that require public policy decisions.

He/she will be supporting the different IndyACT teams in their advocacy work.

The first task of the Policy Campaigner is to organize a ship mission to all red sea countries.

The ship tour is aimed at raising the marine conservation among public, decision makers, media and other stakeholders.

Job Description

• Assist in building Campaign strategy and plans.

• Implement the agreed campaign plans and activities.

• Conduct professional policy communication with decision makers.

• Conduct high-media profile activities to push policy demands.

• Represent the campaign in front of campaign stakeholders and media across the region.

• Build campaign material and communication tools (position papers, brochures, briefs, etc.)

• Develop and maintain extensive contacts and relationships with relevant campaign stakeholders.

• Maintain a general knowledge of recent and relevant information on climate change policy, technology, science, etc. in the region and globally.

Qualifications and skills required are:

• Proven belief in and support of IndyACT core values.

• Commitment to creating positive environmental, social and cultural change.

• A university degree in political science, communication, international affairs, law or related fields.

• Three years experience in advocacy campaigning, diplomatic relations, politics or related fields.

• Ability to lead, work under pressure, and not be afraid to have a confrontation.

• Ability to inspire, communicate in public, and convince.

• Strong personality, high confidence, and high ambition.

• Effective verbal and listening communications skills.

• Effective written communications skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively in both English and Arabic.

• Ready to take risks, and to stay on the move continuously.

• Ability to handle large volume of work and have excellent organization skills.

• Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.

Education Degree :Bachelor Degree.

Education Area :Health Education, Health Promotion or related field,Environment,Human Rights, Protection,Social Policy.

Period: Full time job from 9am to 5pm, Monday till Friday. On account of his/her responsibilities, the Policy Campaigner may be asked to adjust his/her working hours to suit the requirements of his/her duties.

Salary: Starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience.

Jobs Opening at IndyACT/ Executive Director Assistant

2010-06-16T04:52:00.000-07:00

Dear All,
Bellow you can find the Job Description for the Communication Officer that we are offering at IndyACT.

Please send your CV to Admin@indyact.org CC: Soumar@indyact.org

Kindly note that a motivation letter is required and any incomplete application will not be considered.

Job Statement:

IndyACT is a global league of independent environmental, cultural and social activists that works for a healthy, safe, and active planet. IndyACT is currently focusing its operations in the Arab World.

IndyACT has already established several campaigns in the Arab region, especially Lebanon, on issues such as climate change, resource management, marine and coastal protection, youth empowerment, and women’s rights.

The organization’s motto is “Passion with Professionalism” and applies it in all its programs.

IndyACT is currently seeking a Personal Assistant to the Executive Director (ED) to insure that he achieves his duties.

This includes assisting the ED in his daily responsibilities and insuring a healthy balance between the ED’s personal and professional life.

Job Description:

• Organizing and following up on all the ED’s tasks and responsibilities.

• Insuring all deadlines related to the ED’s responsibilities are met.

• Taking on some of the ED’s responsibilities and working more closely with senior management, staff, supporters, donors and stakeholders.

• Providing advice to the ED related to work and personal responsibilities.

• Organizing and maintaining diaries and making appointments on behalf of the ED.

• Organizing meetings and ensuring the ED is well-prepared for these meetings.

• Screening telephone calls, enquiries and requests, and handling them when appropriate.

• Dealing with incoming email, faxes and post, and often corresponding on behalf of the ED.

• Arranging travel and accommodation and, occasionally, travelling with the ED to provide general assistance during his mission.

Qualifications and skills required are:

• Personal belief in and support of IndyACT core values.

• Commitment to creating positive environmental, social and cultural change.

• A university degree in personal relations, public administration, management, executive management, communication or any related field.

• At least three years experience as an executive assistant, personal assistant, personal relations or any related field.

• Effective verbal and listening communications skills.

• Effective written communications skills.

• Strong personality.

• Excellent organization skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively in English and Arabic.

• Computer skills.

• Ability to handle large volume of work and work under pressure.

• Ability to travel on demand.

• Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.

• Able to keep high confidentiality.

Education Degree :Bachelor Degree
Education Area :Management,
Work Experience :Not less than 2 years

Period: Full time job from 9am to 5pm, Monday till Friday.

On account of his/her responsibilities, the Personal Assistant may be asked to adjust his/her working hours to suit the requirements of his/her duties.

Salary: Starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience.

Jobs Opening at IndyACT/ Development Director

2010-06-16T04:42:00.000-07:00

Dear All,
Bellow you can find the Job Description for the Communication Officer that we are offering at IndyACT.

Please send your CV to Admin@indyact.org CC: Soumar@indyact.org

Kindly note that a motivation letter is required and any incomplete application will not be considered.

Job Statment :

IndyACT is a global league of independent environmental and social activists that works for a healthy, safe, and active planet.

IndyACT is currently focusing its operations in the Arab World. IndyACT has already established several campaigns in the Arab region, especially Lebanon, on issues such as climate change, resource management, marine and coastal protection, youth empowerment, biodiversity conservation, domestic workers rights, banning smoking in public areas and women’s rights.

The organization’s motto is “Passion with Professionalism” and applies it in all its campaigns.

IndyACT is currently seeking a Development Director to insure the healthy growth of the organization and build the organization’s fundraising strategy. This includes providing advice to the Executive Director on international growth of the organization, developing an individual supporters’ base, organizing grant seeking operations with all donors and foundations, developing investment opportunities, building and implementing other methods of fundraising.

Job Description

• Set short and long term strategies and plans for the organization’s development, fundraising and financial sustainability.

• Assist in setting an international structure and the development of new offices in new countries.

• Insure the sustainable development of the organization.

• Create and maintain a supporter service for donors, including management of mailing, communication, and development of the supporter base.

• Actively seek new supporters and donors to the organization and upgrade existing ones.

• Explore available grants and calls for proposals from foundations, match grants with current needs of the organization and its campaigns.

• Assist League Members in developing fundraising strategies for their projects or campaigns.

• Develop income-generating business lines for the organization.

• Export and market the organization’s training and capacity-building services.

• Develop investment opportunities for the organization to ensure continuous income.

• Create and manage the organization’s international representation, support, and fund raising from around the world.

• Fulfilling the cooperative management role with the Senior Management Team [SMT].

• Attending monthly SMT meetings.

Qualifications and skills required are:

• A proven belief in and support of IndyACT core values and campaigns.

• A university degree in marketing, business, management or related fields.

• At least three years of experience in marketing, PR, event management, fundraising or related fields.

• Experience in writing proposals, giving professional presentations and public speaking.

• Ability to meet tight deadlines and work under pressure.

• Ability to handle large volume of work and have excellent organization skills.

• Commitment to creating positive environmental, social and cultural change.

• Excellent interpersonal skills, team worker, good listener, able to delegate, and develop staff.

• Ability to take initiatives and be flexible and adaptable in a changing environment.

• Readiness to travel on demand according to IndyACT needs.

• Computer literacy (Access, Photoshop, and HTML are a plus).

• Excellent written and oral communication skills in both English and Arabic.

Period: Full time job from 9am to 5pm, Monday till Friday. On account of his/her responsibilities, the Executive Director may be asked to adjust his/her working hours to suit the requirements of his/her duties. Please send a full CV/resume and a covering motivation letter.

Salary: Starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience.

Jobs Opening at IndyACT/ Communication Officer

2010-06-16T03:55:00.000-07:00

Fast Forward launches the “Darreja” Campaign for alternative sustainable transportation in cooperation with IndyACT

2010-06-12T04:17:00.000-07:00

Beirut – 12 June, 2010: In cooperation with IndyACT, the League of Independent Activists, Fast Forward launched “Darreja”, its campaign for alternative, sustainable transportation in Lebanon since Beirut had become a city crowded with private cars due to the lack of public transportation and urban planning, congestion and pollution of the city which has caused major economic and social damage in Lebanon.

In this context, about 150 persons went on a symbolic tour, starting from Biel, and cycled on a bicycle lane drawn symbolically along the Corniche. They were able to enjoy an exclusive space without imposing on pedestrians or vehicles, while other activists raised a banner with a message calling for “sustainable transportation". The Dutch and Danish ambassadors were among the participants who participated in this activity.

This campaign was born through the mobilization of a group of young individuals who would like to have the choice of using alternative and environmentally friendly means of transportation ranging from public means of transportation such as buses and tramways to non-motorized vehicles such as bicycles. The campaign "Darreja" aims to highlight that the bicycle could be a real means of transportation and that implementing bicycle lanes allowing for safe cycling is perfectly feasible. The campaign lead by Fast Forward aims to promote the development of alternative and sustainable means of transportation on the national level. “Darreja” is the first of a series of events aiming to raise awareness and call for urgent action from the authorities.

To achieve these objectives, the campaign "Darreja" will carry on a series of steps to formally launch the National Campaign for the development of alternative and sustainable means of transportation. The campaign will include many activities for public awareness, and work to create community pressure from the heart of civil society.

Lily Abi-Chahine, an activist in the “Darreja” Campaign, stated that “the participation of individuals in this event reflects their desire for a swift and conclusive solution for the traffic and pollution problems. Using bicycles is a first step that we encourage, just like using public transports and carpooling”.

Car ownership rate in Lebanon is higher than the rates in the world, with an estimated one car for every three persons. The main problem of road transportation in Lebanon is the heavy reliance on private cars, the partial application of laws, lack in regulations and a decline in the standard of services provided. Over dependence on the automobile adds to the cost of transportation, to the consumption of resources, requires large financial investments to build roads and establish parking spaces, in addition it causes more traffic congestion and increases the adverse effects on the environment; not to mention the exorbitant medical charges resulting from traffic accidents and respiratory diseases caused by pollution.

"The transportation sector, in its present state, has become a source of negative impact on both the environmental and social level, and it has become one of the obstacles facing sustainable development in Lebanon today. Based on that it became necessary to develop an integrated national plan for the management of this sector," said Ali Fakhry, Communication officer at IndyACT.

For more information, please contact:
Ali Fakhri Communication officer, tel. – fax: +961-1-447192, mobile: +961-71-421593, e-mail: comms@indyact.org

“Darreja” on Facebook:
Fast Forward Group

Delegates from more than 100 countries today begin negotiating a treaty to control global mercury pollution

2010-06-08T07:16:00.001-07:00

As delegates from more than 100 countries today begin negotiating a treaty to control global mercury pollution, a coalition of environmental NGOs, including IndyACT, and indigenous nation representatives from around the world are calling on them to curb the rising tide of mercury pollution worldwide.

Mercury has contaminated global food supplies at levels, which pose a significant risk to human health, and exposure to methylmercury places the developing fetus and young children most at risk.

“Toxic heavy metal exposures, especially mercury are all around us, and continue to rise. No matter if you are rich or poor or from one country or another, mercury knows no boundaries.

Sweden is the first country in the world with a principal ban of mercury in products. Now we want the other countries to follow our lead” says Mikael Karlsson, President of SSNC.

“Developing a strong treaty is a critical first step towards solving the global mercury crisis,” said Michael Bender, co-coordinator of the Zero Mercury Working Group.

Mercury is toxic heavy metal that is never broken down in the environment, and instead, it accumulates in our air, water, and food supply, becoming more concentrated as it moves up the food chain and poisons people the world over.

According to the United Nations Environment Program, mercury travels around the world and deposits both near and far from the sources where it is released.

Indeed, many small countries with no significant sources of pollution are exposed to mercury pollution arising from great distances elsewhere.

Indigenous peoples and island communities, dependent on fish as a vital protein source, are particularly at risk.

“Like many other island cultures, we in the South Pacific cannot stop the increasing mercury contamination of our traditional foods, like the fish we are so dependent on,” said Imogen Ingram, Island Sustainability Alliance, Cook Island and member of IPEN. “With over 60% of the world population depending heavily on protein from fish, the international community must act urgently.”

“First and foremost, we need a treaty that reduces mercury levels in the environment to the point where people can safely eat fish and other food sources for generations to come,” said Elena Lymberidi-Settimo, co-coordinator of the Zero Mercury Working Group

“Arab countries are greatly affected by Mercury pollution and actively participate in the negotiation process to insure a strong global legally binding treaty on mercury”, said Dr. Naji Kodeih IndyACT’s Toxics campaigner.

The environmental movement wants the mercury treaty to reduce the global availability of mercury through:

- The phase out of mercury mining, restrictions to its supply and trade

- Safe terminal storage of mercury already in circulation.

- Phase out the use of mercury in products and processes,

- Address the growing mercury emissions from the combustion of coal.

- All countries will need to take action and assistance to developing countries through awareness raising, capacity building, and the provision of financial and technical resources will be essential.

Without urgent coordinated action by the international community, the levels of toxic fish and cases of mercury contamination among communities could increase, further harming vulnerable populations in the future." Said Professor Jamidu Katima, IPEN Co-Chair based in Tanzania.

- End -

For more information please contact:
- Ali Fakhry, Communication Director – IndyACT:

Tel- fax: +961-1-447192; Mobile: +961-71-421593 +961-71-421593, email: comms@indyact.org

Image from : http://www.michigan.gov/images/mdch/Thermometer_broken_Final_217161_7.jpg

Join IndyACT and celebrate labor’s day/week

2010-04-29T05:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Activists, Stakeholders and supporters,

Since Lebanese labor laws exclude domestic workers from rights guaranteed to other workers, such as a weekly day of rest, limits on work hours, paid holidays, and workers’ compensation. This leaves many of them subject to exploitation and frequent abuse by employers and agencies. Their situation is made worse by immigration sponsorship laws that tie a domestic worker’s residency to a specific employer, making it difficult to change employers, even in cases of abuse.

In January 2009, the Ministry of Labor finally introduced a standard employment contract that clarifies certain terms and conditions of employment for domestic workers, such as the maximum number of daily working hours and the need for a 24-hour rest period each week. However, the standard contract is not being enforced.

A coalition of a comprising Lebanese and international NGOs, a magazine, concerned individuals and Independent Activists will hold a number of events to raise awareness about the rights of domestic workers and to challenge negative stereotypes regarding migrant domestic workers on May 1st .

We will be glad if you can join us on the events below :

APRIL 24-30

Join the Twitter (http://twitter.com/twenty_four_7) and blogging campaign.

FRIDAY, APRIL 30

African Dance Party at Art Lounge, Qarantina, from 9 PM to 2 AM.

SATURDAY, MAY 1 LABOR DAY

9 AM TO 2 PM - Asian and African Food Festival and a Capoeira performance at Souk el Tayeb, Saifi parking lot.

3 PM TO 5PM - Solidarity march from under the Qarantina bridge to Ein el Mreisseh square.

5:30 PM- Free concert at Ein el Mreisseh square.

THROUGHOUT THE DAY AROUND BEIRUT

Public performances by Clown Me In, Kiki Bokassa and Semaan Khawam, and a city-wide photography exhibition by Elsie Haddad.

For more information: http://twenty-four-7.org

Also join the Facebook event : http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=118154594870298&ref=ts

Join IndyACT's climate policy team

2010-04-07T23:46:00.000-07:00

Dear activists,

Starting June new rounds of negotiations will start, and as usual, IndyACT will be there to push countries into achieving an ambitious and binding agreement.

This year there is an opportunity to have ONE activist join all negotiation sessions as part of the climate policy capacity building program in IndyACT.

This will require at least FIVE weeks of travel between now and end of the year to Germany, Mexico and maybe Thailand.

Those interested need to have the following qualifications:

- Deep interest in climate change policy

- Proof of intention that this person will want to continue engaging in climate change policy

- Commitment to IndyACT

Please, send me an email before Sunday.

All the best,

Wael Hmaidan
Executive Director
IndyACT - The League of Independent Activists

Rmayl, Nahr Street, Jaara Building, 4th floor
Tel: +961-1-447192
Fax: +961-1-448649
mobile: +961-3-506313
P.O.Box: 14-5472, Beirut, Lebanon
skype: whmaidan
www.indyact.org

IndyACT launches "The Adventures of Salwa" campaign which aims to combat all forms of sexual harassment

2010-03-30T00:48:00.000-07:00

The League of Independent Activists – IndyACT launches today its campaign "The Adventures of Salwa" which aims to combat all forms of sexual harassment, physical and verbal abuse against children, girls, and women, especially after incidence rates have increased drastically, sounding the alarms in universities, schools, streets, workplaces and in public transport.

The campaign is the concept and implementation of five young women whose only purpose is to increase awareness among women, children, and men about everything related to sexual harassment. In addition, they aim to urge young women to talk about their painful experiences and to raise their voices in the face of sexual harassers in order to stop their non-human inequities.

To achieve these objectives, "The Adventures of Salwa" campaign adopted a series of steps. To begin with, “Salwa’s” current and future adventure cartoons and videos is being deployed in all available media (Facebook, newspapers, magazines, blogs, TV, etc.). Regular meetings for individuals who had been sexually harassed will be organized. The aim of these meetings is for individuals to talk about their experiences, ways of dealing with harassment and how to overcome traumatic events. The campaign is also working on establishing a website that provides a venue for communication, exchange of information, experiences, and ideas among the public.

The webpage will be established in conjunction with the preparation of a booklet containing guidance for young women to defend themselves in case they are subjected to harassment or rape, and instructions on how to file a complaint. Furthermore, the campaign is planning to coronate its activities with the launch of “Salwa Day" in different regions in Lebanon, where “Salwa bags”, which contain instructions and methods to deal with sexual harassment, will be distributed to women and children. In addition, awareness workshops will be organized for communities.

"Our campaign “Adventures of Salwa” comes at a time when young women cannot find any legal or social deterrent for sexual harassment in all its forms in any public place," said Leen Hashem, "The Adventures of Salwa" campaign coordinator in IndyACT. "It is no longer acceptable for our streets to become a place where we are unable to walk, and being silent about such practices shows our weakness, so Salwa will speak," added Hashem.

"Salwa" calls upon the Lebanese government to draft a Penal Code that criminalizes sexual harassment and protects people subjected to it.

- End -

For more information please contact:
- Ali Fakhry, Communication Director – IndyACT; Tel- fax: +961-1-447192; Mobile: +961-71-421593, email: comms@indyact.org

- Leen Hashem, Campaign Coordinator, Tel- fax: +961-1-447192; Mobile: +961-3-874147, email: leenhashem@gmail.com

- “Adventures of Salwa” Facebook group - http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=249336733391&ref=ts

Watch the first video on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Zt1IZGROmk

Importance of CITES Convention Increases after Food Species Become Endangered

2010-03-29T01:13:00.000-07:00

Beirut – March 29, 2010: After two weeks of charged negotiations, CITES Conference on the trade in endangered species concluded its work last Thursday in the Qatari Capital, Doha. Government delegates, NGOs and media described this conference as uniquely charged in comparison to previous CITES meeting, because it included discussions on controlling the trade of highly controversial species that have been a major source of food for billions of individuals around the world.

Several marine species, such as Blue Fin Tuna and many sharks that are a source of food and livelihood to more than 1.5 billion individuals on this planet, are now becoming threatened with extinction. When the trade of such species becomes a topic for discussion in CITES, economic and political interests, rather than science, will be the main drivers of the debate. “Future CITES negotiations will be even more charged, because more and more marine species that are linked to food security are becoming endangered”, said Soumar Dakdouk, the Director of the Conservation Campaign in IndyACT. “For example, Lebanon is suffering marked deterioration in its fish stocks, which thousands of families depend on for their livelihood. If Lebanon does not actively work to preserve these marine resources, common fish species that we are used to see on our plates will simply stop being there."

CITES is considered one of the most successful environmental agreements. Unlike the climate change negotiations and the Convention on Biodiversity, where decisions are reached by consensus, CITES decisions are taken by a two third vote. It is also the most implemented agreement because of the trade sanctions that could be imposed on a State that does not abide by its decisions. Despite losing the battle to preserve the marine species such as Bluefin tuna, sharks, and coral reefs, member States made progress towards the implementation of better protection for other species such as rhinos and tigers and some species of frogs, lizards and others.

The global league of activists, IndyACT, participated in the summit with a team of political experts and journalists, and organized a meeting for the Lebanese Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Hussein Al-Haj Hassan, with Secretary General of CITES to facilitate Lebanon’s accession to the convention. Becoming a Party in CITES will help Lebanon protect its wildlife resources from the impact of international trade.

-End-

News on this event on: http://indyact.blogspot.com
Picture from:

http://www.yasour.org/news.php?go=fullnews&newsid=4245

For more information please contact: Ali Fakhry, Communication Director – IndyACT; Tel- fax: +961-1-447192; Mobile: +96171421593, email: comms@indyact.org

Lebanon’s Absence from CITES Convention Threatens its Natural Resources

2010-03-23T02:34:00.001-07:00

Qatar – 22 March, 2010: For the second week, the CITES Conference continues its work in the Qatari capital, Doha. Debates on a range of proposals and amendments to add or modify the classification of animal and plant species are carried, with a view to regulating the international trade in these species, or tightening their protection. Lebanon, which had not yet joined CITES, did not have a chance to defend several threatened species that have economical importance for the country, such as the Bluefin Tuna and several types of marine species in the Mediterranean Sea.

Not attend the conference; Lebanon lost the chance of defending its right and the rights of other Arab countries. For example, Egypt desperately needed support in placing the Nile Crocodiles on Appendix II of the convention, which regulates trade in the species. Participation of the global league of activists, IndyACT, in the conference constituted partial compensation for the absence of official Lebanese presence, where the organization played a role in mobilizing European and global support for the Egyptian proposal.

The Ministry of Agriculture in Lebanon has begun the accession process to CITES, but IndyACT sensed a strong need to deepen the knowledge in this Convention. The organization has noticed some confusion regarding the purpose of CITES among Lebanon’s stakeholders, who consider it related to animal welfare. The organization is concerned that some actors might try to exploit this confusion to push the Lebanese law on animal welfare under the pretext of Lebanon is implementing CITES. CITES purpose is to regulate trade in endangered animal and plant species. Illegal trade in endangered species is the third largest illegal trade in the world after arms and drug trade. "After Lebanon's joins CITES, a new law must be put in place to implement the Convention, and this law must not be confused with a law for the ethical treatment of animals; the two are completely different matters," said Soumar Dakdouk, head of conservation campaign at IndyACT.

Despite losing the battle to preserve the Bluefin Tuna in Doha, governments were able to so far to reach agreement on the protection of other endangered species. Nevertheless, few of the most important discussions that still need to take place today (Tuesday) are on the protection of several shark species that are declining steadily.

"Discussions have been extremely heated during this conference compared to previous CITES meetings; and the reason is because many important commercial species that have been very common in the past, are now endangered", said Dakdouk. "It is clear that CITES will become one of the most important international conventions to manage the sustainable use of wildlife resources."

-End-

For more information please contact:
- Ali Fakhry, Communication Director – IndyACT; Tel- fax: +961-1-447192; Mobile: +96171421593, email: comms@indyact.org

CITES conference at Qatar might change the maritime resources destiny

2010-03-13T23:20:00.000-08:00

Qatar – March 15th, 2010 : The 15th meeting of the conference of parties to CITES started its activities with the participation of representatives for more than 120 states from around the world in order to discuss major items related to the survival of complete species on the Planet.
This conference holds a great importance because it will discuss banning the trade of high commercial value species, such as Atlantic bluefin tuna who reached serious stages threatening its existence as a result of unsustainable harvest and huge revenues that it produces. For the first time, the conference will be held in an Arab country, adding a special importance to its activities for the region.

Therefore, this time a great number of civil society organizations from around the world will participate in the conference, among which a major team from IndyACT Arabia whose objective would be getting the approval on preserving bluefin tuna.

The Principality of Monaco has proposed the inclusion of Atlantic bluefin tuna, which is subject to unsustainable harvest in the Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea in order to meet the sushi market needs, in CITES Appendix I. This proposal was completely supported by the EU states, USA, Egypt, Norway and others.

The bluefin tuna issue is considered to be one of the most thorny issues on the agenda, for CITES agreement which is one of the most successful international environmental agreements might change the maritime resources management method and may succeed where other directly concerned agreements and organizations with maritime resources management have failed. Instead of managing maritime fishing operation which is a very hard and complicated issue difficult to implement, CITES solves the problem by effectively managing trade after fishing. And when it becomes difficult to sell fish subject to extinction, it will lose its commercial value and catching will decrease.

“The meeting success relies on the International Community support for the total banning of bluefin tuna trade, which will provide the commercial maritime resources that would collapse by 2015, with the chance to survive.” declared Soumar Dakdouk, the CITES campaign regional coordinator at IndyACT.

The bluefin tuna can be found in great numbers at the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Its length might reach 4 meters and price 150 Thousand Euros. Moreover, it has magnificent and rare characteristics being the only fish having warm blood, in addition to its great speed, for it crosses the ocean within 60 days and may reach 700 Kg of weight.

“For the first time CITES conference will be held in an Arab country, therefore the Arab countries should unite their voices in order to save the Tuna” declared Wael Hmaidan, IndyACT Executive Director. “It would be very unfortunate for this conference to fail and lose the opportunity of being a historical turn point for maritime resources protection which more than 1.5 billion people on the planet depend on.” he added.

The civil society organizations and IndyACT ask all governments to exhort all possible efforts to preserve the maritime wealth and ocean and seas biological diversity through supporting all proposals concerning Tuna, Sharks and Coral reefs presented during Qatar conference.

Live photos and news from this event will be available on:
http://indyact.blogspot.com/

Photos from WWF

For more information, please call:Ali Fakhry, Communication Department, Telephone – Fax: +961-1-1447192, Mobile: +96171421593, e-mail: comms@indyact.org

إندي-اكت توجه رسالة للبرلمان اللبناني وشركات التبغ: عيونا عليكن

2010-02-15T04:22:00.000-08:00

إندي-أكت توجّه رسالة للبرلمان اللبناني وشركات التبغ: عيونا عليكن

بيروت – 15 شباط 2010: : اليوم، نفّذ ناشطون من الرابطة العالمية للناشطين، إندي-أكت، تحركاً سلميا أمام مجلس النواب اللبناني، لمطالبة اللجنة النيابية للإدارة والعدل التي تناقش مشروع قانون لتنظيم التدخين مطالبتهم بعدم الخضوع للضغوط التي تمارسها عليهم الشركات المصنعة والمروجة للتبغ.
وقام أربعة ناشطين من إندي-أكت بتحرك أمام مدخل البرلمان اللبناني حيث ينعقد إجتماع للجنة حيث ارتدوا عيون ضخمة ورفعوا يافطة كتب عليها "عيونا عليكن" للإشارة بأن المجتمع المدني يراقب عمل اللجنة وشركات التبغ وبأنهم جاهزون للتحرك عند الحاجة.
فور وصول الناشطين إلى مدخل مجلس النواب، تدخل حراس الأمن من قوى الأمن الداخلي والجيش والحراس الشخصيين للنواب و بادروا بأخ\ اليافطة ومرافقة الناشطين خارج المنطقة الأمنية المحيطة بالمجلس. على ضوء ذلك إنتقل الناشطون إلى الخارج لتكملة نشاطهم.
تطالب شركات التبغ بتقسيم الأماكن العامة بين المدخنين والامدخنين بدل من المنع الكلي للتدخين في الأماكن العامة. ولكن الدراسات العالمية أثبتت بأن هذا لا يقلل من الضرر الذي تعرض له الغير مدخنين.
"من الغريب بأن يسمح لشركات التبغ بحضور إجتماعات اللجنة وأن يؤخذ برأيهم أكثر من رأي المجتمع المدني الذين لم يعطوا المساحة الكافية في اللجنة"، صرح د.ناجي قديح خبير السياسات في إندي-اكت. "إعتماد قانون ضعيف ستكون فرصة ضائعة لن نستطيع تعويضها قبل سنوات"، أضاف قديح.
في كانون الأول 2005 صدق لبنان عبر مجلس نوابه (القانون رقم 657 الجريدة الرسمية بتاريخ 17/2/2005 العدد السابع) وعن رئيس الجمهورية ورئيس مجلس الوزراء على "إتفاقية منظمة الصحة العالمية الإطارية بشأن مكافحة التدخين"، ولكنه لليوم لم يطبقه مسببا بذلك مئة وخمسون ألفا من الصغار وثلاثمئمة وخمسون ألفا من الكبار بأمراض مميتة بسبب التدخين أو تعرضهم لدخان سجائر المدخنين (حسب إحصاءات منظمة الصحة العالمية) رغم تحديد المادة الثانية من القرار بأن "يعمل بهذا القانون فور نشره في الجريدة الرسمية"

هدف حملة إندي-أكت ليس منع الناس من التدخين، ولكن الهدف هو حماية الغير مدخنين. فبالنسبة للمنظمة، ليس من العدل أن يفرض على أي إنسان (مدخن أو غير مدخن) تنشق دخان السجائر عندما لا يريد ذلك.

للمزيد من المعلومات، الرجاء الاتصال بـ:
علي فخري، المسؤل الإعلامي، هاتف – فاكس: +961-1-447192، موبايل:
+96171421593، البريد الالكتروني: comms@indyact.org

IndyACT launches campaign for Non-Smokers Rights

2010-02-12T00:37:00.001-08:00

IndyACT launched its campaign to ban smoking in public places yesterday in a press conference at Van Dyck AUB.
IndyACT stated that:
We are not against smokres.we are not an anti-smoking group.For IndyACT the issue is about social equity more than public health.
"The freedom of an individual ends when it is affecting the freedom of others"
Every individual has the right to be in any public space without being threatened to get cancer.
Therefore there should be a complete ban on smoking in public places, especially in restaurants.
There,babies and young children are at the highest risk as they are constantly subjected to secondary smoke inhalation in Lebanon.
The tobacco industry does not have the right to brainwash our kids and youth by their advertisements and promotions.
We would agree to put porn advertisements on our highways and just put a warning statement at the bottom of this add saying"this may affect your kids"?Every parent has the right for a fair chance to protect their children and be able to raise them according to their own standards.
They are competing with these advertisements constantly. Therefore IndyACT calls for a complete ban on tobacco advertisements.
Finally,the health cost of each cigarette should be reflected in its price.It is not fair that non-smokers have to pay for the health impacts of smokers.who benefit from the funds available by the Ministry of Health. Therefore we demand to have appropriate health tax on cigarettes that reflects the health costs of these cigarettes. This tax should go directly to the Ministry of Health to cover diseases caused by smoking.

IndyACT launches its campaign asking for a new law that will insure social equity for all.

You're not done yet,And neither are we

2010-01-07T02:27:00.000-08:00

Following the failure and collapse of the 2009 Copenhagen UN climate summit ,the international youth climate mouvement has the following message for world leaders: "You're not done yet,And neither are we"

The video:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z25Vj6Gm93Q

Become a PROUD Maldivian citizen

2009-12-18T11:39:00.000-08:00

Because we are NOT all that proud of the countries' level of ambitions in the climate negotiations here in Copenhagen,

Because we regard the President of the Maldives, President Mohammad Nasheed, as our true leader in this fight against climate change and as our global President,

Because we believe that survival is not negotiable...

IndyACT has printed special Maldivian Passports so that you can become global citizens under the only true leadership in this negotiations. So if you are from any country with a weak position, and for once you want to be proud of your own country, I guess it is easier to become a Maldivian citizen than getting your country to lead.

In the first couple of hours of distribution, over 250 new citizens became honorary citizens of the Republic of the Maldives; we just hope that world leaders will follow the lead of their peoples and of President Nasheed, and seriously work on safeguarding our planet from climate change.

"The Ministry of Climate Activists

supporting the Republic of the Maldives

requests and requires all those whom it may

concern to allow the bearer to negotiate freely

Without let or hindrance and to afford the bearer

Such assistance and protection as maybe

Necessary to ensure their survival."

Climate Heroes at the Bella Center?

2009-12-17T11:01:00.001-08:00

It seems that Climate Heroes walking the halls of the Bella Center! IndyACT activists have been going up to delegates asking them to sign a postcard saying "I Will Be A Climate Hero", and then sending it to their families around the world.

Over a 1,000 postcards have been signed by the delegates here at Copenhagen Climate Change summit (some civil society people also wanted to send postcards; we didn't turn them down). Their families in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Arab world, Latin America, and US & Canada, would be please to know that delegates here are doing everything they can to make this summit a success! But with the current progress (or lack thereof) in the negotiations, IndyACT wonders if the delegates will be able to live up to their word, and what they will think when they go back home to see a postcard waiting for them!

Yes, the postcards are now in the mail, and you should be expecting to receive in about 10 days :)

IndyACTivists to President Nasheed of the Maldives: You Are Our Global President

2009-12-17T05:00:00.001-08:00

President Mohammad Nasheed of the Maldives spoke at the Klimaforum on Monday Dec14, 2009. His words resonated with the audience, as the room fell silent when he spoke about the need to go back to 350, the need to address climate change, and the need for the world to stand united against their common Carbon enemy.

President Nasheed urged the crowd to "Continue the protest, continue after Copenhagen, continue despite the odds, and eventually we will reach that crucial number – the most important number in the world."
He adds that “3-5-0 ensures that our country survives, 3-5-0 makes a better world possible. After all,
It is not carbon that we want, but development
It is not Coal that we want, but electricity
It is not Oil that we want, but transport"

IndyACT activists taking a picture with President Nasheed of the Maldives; telling the world that he is their "GLOBAL President".

The Oil Lobby has WON!

2009-12-17T03:19:00.000-08:00

A 850 Oil Lobbyist has been lurking around the hallways of the Bella Center this past week, searching for email hackers, calling for an 850ppm world, and most recently, celebrating is success in delaying the negotiations.

IndyACT received intelligence yesterday that the Oil Lobby seems to think he has won the fight, and has in fact left the building.

Maybe someone should keep him updated on how bad his losses turn out to be on Friday...

no wonder he thinks he is wining! he bribed everyone in sight!!! Shame Oil Lobby, SHAME!

On Dec. 9th, indyACT staged an action at the UN Copenhagen Climate Summit -COP15. An indyACT activist, dressed as an oil lobbyist clown, approached country delegates with oil slogans stuck on his suit and a sign that says "recruiting e-mail hackers", in reference to the email hacking incident that oil lobbyists and climate skeptics are using to justify their denial of climate change.

Dec. 16: This action has been repeated several times and in several locations inside the Bella Center (one of which in collaboration with Avaaz.org)

Check out the pictures on Flicker: http://www.flickr.com/photos/sarahrifaat/sets/72157622980277398/

(courtesy of IndyACT youth Activist - Sarah Rifaat)