Issues
The Union for the Mediteranean: a new French offensive
The Union for the Mediterranean (UPM) was launched on July 13, 2008 in Paris. The concept of a partnership between European and Mediterranean countries is not a new one. In 1995, the European countries had launched the ‘Barcelona Process’. The UPM restores the same spirit as Barcelona, but with a few changes and modifications.
Hormuz: a Strategic Chokepoint
If the Persian Gulf is the energetically heart of our world, then the Strait of Hormuz is its Aorta. The Gulf Countries hold 61.1% of the world’s proven reserves and 40% of the world’s gas reserves. 30% of the petroleum produced comes from the region as well as 12% of the world’s gas production. Ghawar is the biggest super giant oil field in the World, and it is located in Saudi Arabia and the South Pars/Asalouyeh is the largest natural gas field, shared by Iran and Qatar. The Persian Gulf plays a dominating role in the international energy arena.
Gaddafi's controversial visit to Paris
Colonel Gaddafi was recently recieved in Paris for a a few days. His visit was stimulating for the French economy but it caused outrage among the population due to the warm treatment reserved for the Dictator, whose Human Right record has often been tarnished. Let us take a deeper look into this controversial hospitality.
The UNHCR coming to Help Iraqi Refugees
On the 17th - 18th of April 2007, an International Conference was held at the UN Palace in Geneva, to answer the humanitarian needs of the refugees and internally displaced persons in Iraq and neighbouring countries. Ahmed Al Shikaki interviewed M. Radhouane Nouicer, UNHCR’s Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.
Iraqi Forced Migration and the UNHCR
On the 17th - 18th of April 2007, an International Conference was held at the UN Palace in Geneva, to answer the humanitarian needs of the refugees and internally displaced people in Iraq and neighbouring countries. Ahmed Al Shikaki interviewed M. Kais J. Alazawi, President of the International Committee of Solidarity with Iraqi Academics, on the situation of these refugees from Iraq.