Crisis

Veteran Irish Rights Advocate Resigns from European Watchdog, Decries Inaction on Gaza Crisis

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DUBLIN, Ireland — A veteran human rights advocate has resigned from his influential post at a major European organization, citing its inaction regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as a key reason for his departure. Michael Farrell, who dedicated 14 years to the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI), expressed deep disappointment over the body’s reluctance to address what he considers an urgent and critical issue. Farrell argued that ignoring the situation in Gaza undermines the organization’s integrity and respect on other human rights matters. “You cannot work in an organization committed to human … Read more

Family Files Lawsuit After Tragic Death of Coos Bay Man Left Unattended in Police Car Amid Health Crisis

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COOS BAY, Ore. — The family of a man who became unconscious in the back of a patrol car and later died has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city and the responding officers, highlighting serious concerns regarding police handling of health emergencies. Nathan Bradford Smith, 33, fell ill while in police custody on July 7, 2024. According to legal documents, while Smith gasped for air and slumped over in the police vehicle, the officer transporting him neglected his duties, reportedly spending time on personal phone activities instead of ensuring the man received urgent … Read more

Human Rights Crisis: Five Deported Foreign Nationals Face Unlawful Detention in Eswatini’s Maximum Security Prison

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Matsapha, Eswatini — Five men deported from the United States last month under a covert agreement with the Eswatini government are now incarcerated at the Matsapha Correctional Complex, the nation’s primary maximum-security facility. Despite serving their criminal sentences, these foreign nationals are being held without access to legal representation, according to Sibusiso Nhlabatsi, a local attorney advocating on their behalf. Nhlabatsi disclosed this troubling situation on Friday, stating that the men, who hail from countries including Cuba, Jamaica, Laos, Yemen, and Vietnam, have been unable to meet with legal counsel since their arrival in Eswatini … Read more

"Palermo Faces Flood Crisis: Grand Jury Report Uncovers Urgent Need for Drainage Overhaul Amid Growing Storm Risks"

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PALERMO, Calif. — The persistent threat of flooding in Palermo stems from a combination of low-lying terrain, inadequate drainage systems, and sporadic storms, creating a precarious situation for this unincorporated community. A recent report from the Butte County Grand Jury highlights a series of long-standing issues that have contributed to the area’s vulnerability to water damage. The investigation concluded that the primary cause of the flooding is the local drainage system, which is undersized, poorly maintained, and often blocked by vegetation. Eleanor Deck, a longtime resident and business owner, recalled her family’s struggles with flooding. … Read more