http://community.myvoa.com/_Democrats-Deeply-Divided-over-Afghan-War/VIDEO/1198741/45137.html A vote this week in the U.S. House of Representatives on a bill to provide emergency funding for the war in Afghanistan reveals eroding support for President Barack Obama's war policy among members of his own Democratic Party. Wednesday at a House committee hearing, the U.S. envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke, sought to defend U.S. civilian operations in Afghanistan.  VOA Correspondent Cindy Saine reports from Capitol Hill. A vote this week in the U.S. House of Representatives on a bill to provide emergency funding for the war in Afghanistan reveals eroding support for President Barack Obama's war policy among members of his own Democratic Party. Wednesday at a House committee hearing, the U.S. envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke, sought to defend U.S. civilian operations in Afghanistan.  VOA Correspondent Cindy Saine reports from Capitol Hill. Wed, 28 Jul 2010 23:28:07 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Democrats-Deeply-Divided-over-Afghan-War/VIDEO/1198741/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2010-07-28T23:28:07Z News and Politics myVOA A vote this week in the U.S. House of Representatives on a bill to provide emergency funding for the war in Afghanistan reveals eroding support for President Barack Obama's war policy among members of his own Democratic Party. Wednesday at a House committee hearing, the U.S. envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke, sought to defend U.S. civilian operations in Afghanistan.  VOA Correspondent Cindy Saine reports from Capitol Hill. afghan, democrats, divided, news and politics, war nonadult false Democrats Deeply Divided over Afghan War video afghan,democrats,divided,news and politics,war 4786 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 1198741 5122122 Admin 108598 165 http://community.myvoa.com/_Many-African-Countries-Mark-50-Years-in-2010/VIDEO/1198707/45137.html Seventeen African countries are marking half a century of independence this year. These include a number former French colonies, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria. Celebrations are being held in Africa and outside the continent, but Africa analysts say Africa needs to see much more progress before celebration is really warranted. Seventeen African countries are marking half a century of independence this year. These include a number former French colonies, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria. Celebrations are being held in Africa and outside the continent, but Africa analysts say Africa needs to see much more progress before celebration is really warranted. Wed, 28 Jul 2010 22:09:43 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Many-African-Countries-Mark-50-Years-in-2010/VIDEO/1198707/45137.html tturco 2010-07-28T22:09:43Z News and Politics myVOA Seventeen African countries are marking half a century of independence this year. These include a number former French colonies, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria. Celebrations are being held in Africa and outside the continent, but Africa analysts say Africa needs to see much more progress before celebration is really warranted. africa, cameroon, democratic republic of congo, former french colonies, independence, kenya, news and politics, nigeria nonadult false Many African Countries Mark 50 Years in 2010 video africa,cameroon,democratic republic of congo,former french colonies,independence,kenya,news and politics,nigeria 3899 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=24083492&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg?t=1277921610747 false 0 News and Politics 0 1198707 24083492 Silver 1600 197 http://community.myvoa.com/_Las-Vegas-Poker-Tournament-Raises-Money-for-African-Conflict-Areas/VIDEO/1147479/45137.html A charity poker tournament in Las Vegas has raised millions of dollars and is working to raise awareness about the conflicts in Darfur and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Jennifer Glasse was at the tournament and reports for VOA from Las Vegas A charity poker tournament in Las Vegas has raised millions of dollars and is working to raise awareness about the conflicts in Darfur and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Jennifer Glasse was at the tournament and reports for VOA from Las Vegas Mon, 05 Jul 2010 21:29:13 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Las-Vegas-Poker-Tournament-Raises-Money-for-African-Conflict-Areas/VIDEO/1147479/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2010-07-05T21:29:13Z News and Politics myVOA A charity poker tournament in Las Vegas has raised millions of dollars and is working to raise awareness about the conflicts in Darfur and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Jennifer Glasse was at the tournament and reports for VOA from Las Vegas africa, charity, news and politics, poker nonadult false Las Vegas Poker Tournament Raises Money for African Conflict Areas video africa,charity,news and politics,poker 3133 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 1147479 5122122 Admin 108598 http://community.myvoa.com/_New-Bike-Lanes/VIDEO/1083155/45137.html America's main street has something new - bike lanes.They were painted several weeks ago on Pennsylvania Avenue, the wide boulevard that runs from the White House to the Capitol. Recently, a group of VIP cyclists went for a test ride.Among them were Washington Mayor Adrian Fenty and Democratic Congressman Earl Blumenhauer from the bike-friendly city of  Portland, Oregon, who pedals to his office on Capitol Hill every day. America's main street has something new - bike lanes.They were painted several weeks ago on Pennsylvania Avenue, the wide boulevard that runs from the White House to the Capitol. Recently, a group of VIP cyclists went for a test ride.Among them were Washington Mayor Adrian Fenty and Democratic Congressman Earl Blumenhauer from the bike-friendly city of  Portland, Oregon, who pedals to his office on Capitol Hill every day. Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:44:09 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_New-Bike-Lanes/VIDEO/1083155/45137.html dmekouar 2010-06-01T16:44:09Z Entertainment American Life myVOA America's main street has something new - bike lanes.They were painted several weeks ago on Pennsylvania Avenue, the wide boulevard that runs from the White House to the Capitol. Recently, a group of VIP cyclists went for a test ride.Among them were Washington Mayor Adrian Fenty and Democratic Congressman Earl Blumenhauer from the bike-friendly city of  Portland, Oregon, who pedals to his office on Capitol Hill every day. american life, bike lanes, entertainment, pennsylvania avenue nonadult false New Bike Lanes video american life,bike lanes,entertainment,pennsylvania avenue 2640 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=20167289&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg?t=1265209747241 false United States 0 Entertainment / American Life 0 1083155 20167289 Gold 5660 http://community.myvoa.com/_-Ethiopian-Diaspora-US-Rights-Groups-Seek-Democratic-Progress-in-Ethiopia/VIDEO/1053282/45137.html Members of the Ethiopian diaspora and U.S. human rights groups want the U.S. government to put pressure on its Horn of Africa ally Ethiopia to implement democratic reform, ahead of parliamentary elections Sunday.  But as VOA's Nico Colombant reports from Washington, Africa experts say Washington has little leverage to effect change. Members of the Ethiopian diaspora and U.S. human rights groups want the U.S. government to put pressure on its Horn of Africa ally Ethiopia to implement democratic reform, ahead of parliamentary elections Sunday.  But as VOA's Nico Colombant reports from Washington, Africa experts say Washington has little leverage to effect change. Tue, 18 May 2010 14:17:12 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_-Ethiopian-Diaspora-US-Rights-Groups-Seek-Democratic-Progress-in-Ethiopia/VIDEO/1053282/45137.html LizCM 2010-05-18T14:17:12Z News and Politics myVOA Members of the Ethiopian diaspora and U.S. human rights groups want the U.S. government to put pressure on its Horn of Africa ally Ethiopia to implement democratic reform, ahead of parliamentary elections Sunday.  But as VOA's Nico Colombant reports from Washington, Africa experts say Washington has little leverage to effect change. democracy, elections, ethiopia, news and politics nonadult false Ethiopian Diaspora, US Rights Groups Seek Democratic Progress in Ethiopia video democracy,elections,ethiopia,news and politics 4187 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5140059&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false Ethiopia 0 News and Politics 0 1053282 5140059 Admin 100570 http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Congress-Waging-Fierce-Final-Battle-over-Health-Care-Reform/VIDEO/951198/45137.html U.S. President Barack Obama and his Democratic Party allies in Congress are making one last push for health care reform after more than a year of debate.  Republicans and grass roots conservative activists are making their own last ditch attempt to block the health care bill, and the passionate battle over reform has spread from the halls of Congress into the streets surrounding the Capitol.  VOA National correspondent Jim Malone reports from Washington U.S. President Barack Obama and his Democratic Party allies in Congress are making one last push for health care reform after more than a year of debate.  Republicans and grass roots conservative activists are making their own last ditch attempt to block the health care bill, and the passionate battle over reform has spread from the halls of Congress into the streets surrounding the Capitol.  VOA National correspondent Jim Malone reports from Washington Thu, 18 Mar 2010 22:18:33 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Congress-Waging-Fierce-Final-Battle-over-Health-Care-Reform/VIDEO/951198/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2010-03-18T22:18:33Z News and Politics myVOA U.S. President Barack Obama and his Democratic Party allies in Congress are making one last push for health care reform after more than a year of debate.  Republicans and grass roots conservative activists are making their own last ditch attempt to block the health care bill, and the passionate battle over reform has spread from the halls of Congress into the streets surrounding the Capitol.  VOA National correspondent Jim Malone reports from Washington care, democrats, health, house, news and politics, obama, reform, republicans, senate, us nonadult false US Congress Waging Fierce Final Battle over Health Care Reform video care,democrats,health,house,news and politics,obama,reform,republicans,senate,us 5006 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 951198 5122122 Admin 108598 http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Congressional-Democrats-Propose-New-Financial-Regulations/VIDEO/949660/45137.html Legislation proposed this week by U.S. Senator Christopher Dodd could result in big changes in the way financial institutions do business.  Dodd, the Democratic Party chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. says the bill expands the Federal Reserve's role in policing large financial institutions and creates a new consumer protection agency.  But some predict a tough battle for the bill to pass. VOA's Mil Arcega has more. Legislation proposed this week by U.S. Senator Christopher Dodd could result in big changes in the way financial institutions do business.  Dodd, the Democratic Party chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. says the bill expands the Federal Reserve's role in policing large financial institutions and creates a new consumer protection agency.  But some predict a tough battle for the bill to pass. VOA's Mil Arcega has more. Tue, 16 Mar 2010 23:41:55 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Congressional-Democrats-Propose-New-Financial-Regulations/VIDEO/949660/45137.html VOANews_1 2010-03-16T23:41:55Z Economy myVOA Legislation proposed this week by U.S. Senator Christopher Dodd could result in big changes in the way financial institutions do business.  Dodd, the Democratic Party chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. says the bill expands the Federal Reserve's role in policing large financial institutions and creates a new consumer protection agency.  But some predict a tough battle for the bill to pass. VOA's Mil Arcega has more. economy nonadult false US Congressional Democrats Propose New Financial Regulations video economy 7263 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5137292&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false United States 0 Economy 0 949660 5137292 Admin 107375 http://community.myvoa.com/_Groups-Call-for-Greater-Attention-for-Congolese-Women/VIDEO/943208/45137.html Men and women in 18 countries on Monday commemorated International Women's Day by gathering on bridges in a symbolic call for peace and the empowerment of women in war-torn nations.  In Washington, one group of activists focused on the plight of women in the Democratic Republic of Congo. VOA's Robert Raffaele reports. Men and women in 18 countries on Monday commemorated International Women's Day by gathering on bridges in a symbolic call for peace and the empowerment of women in war-torn nations.  In Washington, one group of activists focused on the plight of women in the Democratic Republic of Congo. VOA's Robert Raffaele reports. Tue, 09 Mar 2010 02:03:54 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Groups-Call-for-Greater-Attention-for-Congolese-Women/VIDEO/943208/45137.html VOANews_1 2010-03-09T02:03:54Z News and Politics myVOA Men and women in 18 countries on Monday commemorated International Women's Day by gathering on bridges in a symbolic call for peace and the empowerment of women in war-torn nations.  In Washington, one group of activists focused on the plight of women in the Democratic Republic of Congo. VOA's Robert Raffaele reports. nonadult false Groups Call for Greater Attention for Congolese Women video 4321 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5137292&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false United States 0 News and Politics 0 943208 5137292 Admin 107375 http://community.myvoa.com/_Cote-dIvoire-lays-claims-to-Ghanas-oil/BLOG/1931663/45137.html Why on earth should Ivory Coast open its mouth to claim ownership of the territorial oil field of Ghana? I may not know what is motivating them to start claiming our oil field now but I can assure them that they might know Ghana is a peaceful democratic country but when we as Ghanaians decide to drop their line of peaceful character, I can promise that hell will break loose because we will have no mercy or respect for any human being living in the Ivory Coast so we must say to them that they are warned and advised to back off before they say we did not warn them.  We don’t care who or what is pushing them or motivating them but I think what I have said is enough to for them to go back and reason before they regret their actions. I will want Ivoirians to advise their government to be very cautious in what they are trying to do because whatever happens they as Ivoirian citizens will be the once to suffer for any bad decision taken by their government so they should be aware of what they are going to face.   Why on earth should Ivory Coast open its mouth to claim ownership of the territorial oil field of Ghana? I may not know what is motivating them to start claiming our oil field now but I can assure them that they might know Ghana is a peaceful democratic country but when we as Ghanaians decide to drop their line of peaceful character, I can promise that hell will break loose because we will have no mercy or respect for any human being living in the Ivory Coast so we must say to them that they are warned and advised to back off before they say we did not warn them.  We don’t care who or what is pushing them or motivating them but I think what I have said is enough to for them to go back and reason before they regret their actions. I will want Ivoirians to advise their government to be very cautious in what they are trying to do because whatever happens they as Ivoirian citizens will be the once to suffer for any bad decision taken by their government so they should be aware of what they are going to face.   Thu, 04 Mar 2010 19:36:09 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Cote-dIvoire-lays-claims-to-Ghanas-oil/BLOG/1931663/45137.html Wackson 2010-03-04T19:36:09Z Economy myVOA Why on earth should Ivory Coast open its mouth to claim ownership of the territorial oil field of Ghana? I may not know what is motivating them to start claiming our oil field now but I can assure them that they might know Ghana is a peaceful democratic country but when we as Ghanaians decide to drop their line of peaceful character, I can promise that hell will break loose because we will have no mercy or respect for any human being living in the Ivory Coast so we must say to them that they are warned and advised to back off before they say we did not warn them.  We don’t care who or what is pushing them or motivating them but I think what I have said is enough to for them to go back and reason before they regret their actions. I will want Ivoirians to advise their government to be very cautious in what they are trying to do because whatever happens they as Ivoirian citizens will be the once to suffer for any bad decision taken by their government so they should be aware of what they are going to face.   economy nonadult false Cote d'Ivoire lays claim's to Ghana's oil text blog economy 208 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=20742679&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg?t=1266753256417 false Ghana Accra 0 Economy 0 1931663 20742679 Member 365 http://community.myvoa.com/_International-Human-Rights-Day/BLOG/1920116/45137.html International Human Rights Day： Natural Rights Based on the People and the Rule of Law   Dr. Hong, Tao-TzeZhang-men-ren of Tai Ji MenPresident of Federation of World Peace and LoveHonorary Vice-President of Association of World Citizens UN/NGO/DPI/ECOSOC President of Association of World Citizens, Taiwan   Human rights are a universal fundamental value of humanity.  That is, what we do to protect the least fortunate in society is a reflection of our own humanity.  Additionally, those who would empower themselves by denying rights and protections to others would deny them to all that they are capable of and hence we protect our own rights by protecting the rights of others.  The world of the 21st century has awoken to the wisdom of defining and protecting human rights. At this critical moment of history, I would like to call attention to the necessity for the God-given human rights based upon the needs of people and ruled by law to prevail in the world. In May 2009 President Ma of the Republic of China signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), which have been adopted and enacted by the Taiwanese legislature and became domestic laws on December 10, 2009. The ICCPR and the ICESCR along with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) form the International Bill of Human Rights. The adoption of the ICCPR and the ICESCR marks a milestone in the progress of cultural advancement of developed nations and demonstrates special importance for Taiwan as it enters the second century of its history. A society of fairness and justice is a place where people can live and prosper. The division and balance of power anchors social order, promotes national security, prevents the abuse of administrative power and restricts the passage of inappropriate bills so as to uphold civilian’s rights. The basic human rights to life, work, property, freedom of speech and religion, and the freedom to move are clearly defined in the constitution of Taiwan. Everyone living in Taiwan should enjoy the same protections under the constitution.   Taxation without respect to human rights is a source of civilian pain The Administrative Enforcement Agency recently revealed appalling statistics. As of October 2009, the outstanding number of overdue administrative enforcement cases on taxes and duties is close to 4.2 million cases with total value of NT$ 440 billion. With 7,785,035 households registered in Taiwan, the 4.2 million cases mean that more than half of Taiwanese households have overdue taxes and duties and are subject to administrative enforcement by the government. The number speaks for itself with only two possibilities;  either social order in Taiwan has broken down to the degree that over half of the population habitually participate in tax evasion, or there has been a serious breakdown in the quality of tax assessment and collection, either case requires substantial redress.  If the tax authority is the source of the problem and the Administrative Enforcement Agency follows the instructions of the tax authority, the problem is compounded and is a waste of administrative and judicial resources and incurs high social costs. This is something the government cannot afford to ignore. On November 6, 2009 the Minister of the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Sush-Der Lee, when participating in a seminar on the Remedy for the Tax Administration organized by Soochow University on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, said the objective of taxation is for the taxpayers to pay taxes out of willingness and for the government to only collect justified taxes. As such, related governmental agencies should seek solutions to the problem. Inevitably, there is a tremendous amount of human misery hidden behind the 4.2 million cases of administrative enforcement on overdue taxes and duties waiting for the government to uncover and correct. Statistics show that most of the administrative litigation cases are related to taxation, and the disputes against the material imposition principle contribute the most. Scholar Ge-Chung Ko in the Department of Law of Cheng Kung University found that out of all the taxation disputes from 2006 and 2007, 87% of the rulings were in favor of the tax authorities. Official statistics from the Judicial Yuan also show that the average win rate of cases against tax administrations since 2001 has been below 10%, with the lowest year hitting the nadir of 1.3%. Such a low rate of success in cases against the tax bureaus suggests that civilians cannot obtain adequate remedy through administrative litigation. The primary reason for this is that the tax code is so complicated and convoluted that tax-payers are severely disadvantaged. As such, the addition of Articled 12-1 of the Tax Collection Act is meant to impose responsibilities on the tax administration to document evidence before filing tax cases. With this new responsibility, establishes the ability for civilians to preemptively evaluate their position dramatically reducing mishandled tax cases. This will help to free people from the time and finance consuming burden of dealing with tax agents and regain true human rights on tax grounds.   Unjustified tax bills are a killer of human rights Most troubling is that in today’s free and democratic country of Taiwan, unjustified tax bills do exist. When the tax administration issues erroneous tax bills without lawful grounds, the only remedy available to taxpayers is to apply for an examination of re-computation. If the result of the re-computation is not favorable, the taxpayers must then appeal to the Ministry of Finance, followed by the final recourse of administrative litigation. Assuming the taxpayers is one of the less than 10% to win a case of administrative litigation, the original disciplinary actions issued from the Ministry of Finance will be withdrawn.  Typically at this point, tax agents will make minor adjustments and re-issue a new tax bill; forcing taxpayers to once again file for re-computation, appeal and go to court for administrative litigation again. The cycle perpetually repeats itself with taxpayers living in anxiety and national resources being wasted. It is a troubling state of affairs when the tax authority can so easily flaunt their power above the Ministry of Finance and the Administrative Court with no balancing mechanism in the governmental system to correct false and illegal tax bills. If a taxpayer loses his case in the Supreme Administrative Court, then his case will be subject to immediate enforcement by the Tax Administration; contrarily, if he wins the case, tax agents can redo the math and issue new tax bills. Under these conditions, the people are always the losers and the people must ask "what’s the point of having an administrative remedy?" Taxpayers do not have human right protections in the arena of tax collection. Their constitutional rights of petition, litigation, property and human rights have been infringed upon. Where is the remedy for the people?   Public servants need to promote the concepts of human rights Lawful administration is the way to relieve the pain of taxpayers Government officers have to pass national exams in order to serve our nation and people. Given the low pass rate of national exams, governmental officers are considered to be an elite group. They should be highly capable in their professions. What remains is the matter of their hearts, be it of good or evil and the governmental system. Working in the government for the people is the best way to cultivate oneself. With a heart of loving people and dedication to the nation, officers can commit themselves to the people and win respect and recognition. Rumor of election bribery broke out recently in the election of the Kuomintang (KMT) Central Standing Committee, in response Chairman Ma wholeheartedly supported reform and vowed to clean things up. As a result, an unprecedented thing happened when all the members of the Central Standing Committee resigned for re-election. Thus the whole nation anxiously watches to see if the code of ethics and integrity promoted by Chairman Ma will be implemented in the election of the county and city mayor. The Great Learning, one of the Four Books of Confucianism, teaches to illustrate illustrious virtue; to love the people; and to rest in the highest excellence. It is a nation’s fortune to have governmental officers servicing their people with a heart of kindness and dedication to the people with the highest standards of ethics and integrity. The people would like to have officers who desire to serve and lead our nation, not officers who obsess over elections. We used to have officers who do their jobs by the book without any commitment to serving people, to their credit, they still were able to solve some problems. The worst case is to have officers who abuse his/her legal powers manipulate rules and even violate laws. Civilians are at the mercy of such officers when they wield the force of government and the reputation of the government becomes disgraced by their actions as well. The delayed justice of a no guilt ruling or compensation is meaningless for the people who suffer such deep pain at the hands of such officers. If our officers can do their jobs with a heart bent on protecting human rights based on people and the rule of law, we can alleviate the current situation and achieve real practice of the two international covenants signed by President Ma.   Abolish the bad practices of officers deliberately breaking the law and covering for one another The first article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights says all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. The God-given human rights have to be based upon people and the rule of law. The exercise of human rights can be traced and observed in individuals, families, societies, education system, sports, religious practices, cultures, ethnic groups and nations. Chaos in society and politics will lead to fear and unease for people. People’s hearts will change as the environment changes in order to accommodate their own needs. Impartiality can be achieved in principle, but that does not necessarily mean it is achievable on ethical grounds. The errors and bad practices committed by officers who violate laws and abuse power have resulted in misery for millions of people. The purpose of emphasizing human rights is to lead people towards kindness and goodness. In addition to kind motivations, detailed knowledge and courage out of moral understanding are required. People will from time to time commit misdemeanors even when equipped with legal knowledge. Therefore, it is necessary to ask officers to abide by the procedural requirements of law when performing governmental affairs so as to reduce the possibilities of the government making mistakes, protect the legal rights of the people and make human rights prevail. Taiwan law has made it clear that officers manipulating rules, abusing powers and violating laws is more than an issue of morals and ethics; it is also a serious crime and offence. If criminal charges are involved, the penalty can be 50% heavier than in normal civilian cases. Supervisors are responsible to oversee the conduct of his/her subordinates. If the supervisor neglects or harbors the offences of his subordinates, he has to be collectively held responsible. The judges of administrative courts should investigate cases prudentially, impartially, fairly and openly. Judges should take responsibility to revoke legal penalties if an order was issued without lawful grounds in the first place or the officers have violated procedural codes or broken the law, instead of only asking for the original administrative branches to resubmit a law-compliance order. Only in this way will people no longer suffer miseries from governments perpetuating mistakes. In addition, in dealing with governmental officers involved in criminal cases, judges should refer the cases to prosecutors as a warning to others who may be tempted to following a bad example. Such actions are real patriotic practices.   Real democracy and true practice of law exist only when human rights are protected  The United Nations dedicated the years from 1995 to 2004 as the Decade for Human Rights Education, not only to proactively promote the education on human rights subjects, but also to address the human right issues occurring around the globe. In correspondence to the United Nations goals, I presented an essay “Sharing Goals for Economic and Social Development” in response to the urgent need for global solidarity at the 53rd Annual DPI/NGO Conference, and delivered the Global Endorsement of Declarations for Human Rights of World Citizens and for “Love of the World, A Wish for Peace” with 2 million signatures from 158 countries to the United Nations in 2004. In addition, I have also met with former UN Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan several times at the UN headquarters in New York, where we discussed the implementation of the Natural Rights stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the establishment of a balance mechanism in international society in order to establish the real practice and proper respect of human rights.  In 2008, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote to express his gratitude toward my devotion and interactions with the United Nations throughout the years, stating that “the Secretary-General remains deeply committed to efforts to establish and maintain world peace, a goal made that much easier, thanks to the support of individuals like you for your interest in the work and goals of the Organization”.  In 2009, President Obama of the United States and I have engaged in correspondence discussions on the related issues of love, peace, and human rights in several exchanging letters.  President Obama personally wrote the letter to me, mentioning that “the future we leave to our children and grandchildren will be determined by our willingness to shoulder each other’s burdens, take great risks, and march forward. With your help, we will build on what we have already achieved and lay a foundation for real and lasting progress”.  In 2008 I was invited to participate in the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World and the 5th Global Symposium: ‘Awakening Planetary Consciousness’ in attendance were nearly 300 chief judges and NGO representatives and participants from 85 nations. The discussion was centered on the law as the last defense of human rights. One matter of consensus from that conference was that legal enforcers, with powers endowed by law, play an important role in safeguarding human rights by leading through personal example. In the conference Dr. Virgilijus Valancius, President of the Supreme Administrative Court of Lithuania, said that in democratic society, everybody follows legal rules including head of states, members of government, and high-ranking officers. There must be a legal mechanism within the judicial system to swiftly correct and stop the violation of laws whenever it happens. On the other hand, the national judicial systems and authorities have to follow the practice of international laws and apply them into national legal mechanisms in order to broaden the coverage of law, protect human rights as well as the fundamental values of humanity. The aspirations of people and governance of a nation all hinge upon the practice of human rights. The prevailing exercise and protection of human rights should start immediately. In a democratic society, all rules and regulations are established for the benefit of the people. It is the good blessing of a nation and the fortune of its people and the future generations to have government officers that administer laws with conscience. We all have to understand and practice the natural rights based on people and the rule of law in order to protect and uphold the basic God-given human rights.   International Human Rights Day： Natural Rights Based on the People and the Rule of Law   Dr. Hong, Tao-TzeZhang-men-ren of Tai Ji MenPresident of Federation of World Peace and LoveHonorary Vice-President of Association of World Citizens UN/NGO/DPI/ECOSOC President of Association of World Citizens, Taiwan   Human rights are a universal fundamental value of humanity.  That is, what we do to protect the least fortunate in society is a reflection of our own humanity.  Additionally, those who would empower themselves by denying rights and protections to others would deny them to all that they are capable of and hence we protect our own rights by protecting the rights of others.  The world of the 21st century has awoken to the wisdom of defining and protecting human rights. At this critical moment of history, I would like to call attention to the necessity for the God-given human rights based upon the needs of people and ruled by law to prevail in the world. In May 2009 President Ma of the Republic of China signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), which have been adopted and enacted by the Taiwanese legislature and became domestic laws on December 10, 2009. The ICCPR and the ICESCR along with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) form the International Bill of Human Rights. The adoption of the ICCPR and the ICESCR marks a milestone in the progress of cultural advancement of developed nations and demonstrates special importance for Taiwan as it enters the second century of its history. A society of fairness and justice is a place where people can live and prosper. The division and balance of power anchors social order, promotes national security, prevents the abuse of administrative power and restricts the passage of inappropriate bills so as to uphold civilian’s rights. The basic human rights to life, work, property, freedom of speech and religion, and the freedom to move are clearly defined in the constitution of Taiwan. Everyone living in Taiwan should enjoy the same protections under the constitution.   Taxation without respect to human rights is a source of civilian pain The Administrative Enforcement Agency recently revealed appalling statistics. As of October 2009, the outstanding number of overdue administrative enforcement cases on taxes and duties is close to 4.2 million cases with total value of NT$ 440 billion. With 7,785,035 households registered in Taiwan, the 4.2 million cases mean that more than half of Taiwanese households have overdue taxes and duties and are subject to administrative enforcement by the government. The number speaks for itself with only two possibilities;  either social order in Taiwan has broken down to the degree that over half of the population habitually participate in tax evasion, or there has been a serious breakdown in the quality of tax assessment and collection, either case requires substantial redress.  If the tax authority is the source of the problem and the Administrative Enforcement Agency follows the instructions of the tax authority, the problem is compounded and is a waste of administrative and judicial resources and incurs high social costs. This is something the government cannot afford to ignore. On November 6, 2009 the Minister of the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Sush-Der Lee, when participating in a seminar on the Remedy for the Tax Administration organized by Soochow University on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, said the objective of taxation is for the taxpayers to pay taxes out of willingness and for the government to only collect justified taxes. As such, related governmental agencies should seek solutions to the problem. Inevitably, there is a tremendous amount of human misery hidden behind the 4.2 million cases of administrative enforcement on overdue taxes and duties waiting for the government to uncover and correct. Statistics show that most of the administrative litigation cases are related to taxation, and the disputes against the material imposition principle contribute the most. Scholar Ge-Chung Ko in the Department of Law of Cheng Kung University found that out of all the taxation disputes from 2006 and 2007, 87% of the rulings were in favor of the tax authorities. Official statistics from the Judicial Yuan also show that the average win rate of cases against tax administrations since 2001 has been below 10%, with the lowest year hitting the nadir of 1.3%. Such a low rate of success in cases against the tax bureaus suggests that civilians cannot obtain adequate remedy through administrative litigation. The primary reason for this is that the tax code is so complicated and convoluted that tax-payers are severely disadvantaged. As such, the addition of Articled 12-1 of the Tax Collection Act is meant to impose responsibilities on the tax administration to document evidence before filing tax cases. With this new responsibility, establishes the ability for civilians to preemptively evaluate their position dramatically reducing mishandled tax cases. This will help to free people from the time and finance consuming burden of dealing with tax agents and regain true human rights on tax grounds.   Unjustified tax bills are a killer of human rights Most troubling is that in today’s free and democratic country of Taiwan, unjustified tax bills do exist. When the tax administration issues erroneous tax bills without lawful grounds, the only remedy available to taxpayers is to apply for an examination of re-computation. If the result of the re-computation is not favorable, the taxpayers must then appeal to the Ministry of Finance, followed by the final recourse of administrative litigation. Assuming the taxpayers is one of the less than 10% to win a case of administrative litigation, the original disciplinary actions issued from the Ministry of Finance will be withdrawn.  Typically at this point, tax agents will make minor adjustments and re-issue a new tax bill; forcing taxpayers to once again file for re-computation, appeal and go to court for administrative litigation again. The cycle perpetually repeats itself with taxpayers living in anxiety and national resources being wasted. It is a troubling state of affairs when the tax authority can so easily flaunt their power above the Ministry of Finance and the Administrative Court with no balancing mechanism in the governmental system to correct false and illegal tax bills. If a taxpayer loses his case in the Supreme Administrative Court, then his case will be subject to immediate enforcement by the Tax Administration; contrarily, if he wins the case, tax agents can redo the math and issue new tax bills. Under these conditions, the people are always the losers and the people must ask "what’s the point of having an administrative remedy?" Taxpayers do not have human right protections in the arena of tax collection. Their constitutional rights of petition, litigation, property and human rights have been infringed upon. Where is the remedy for the people?   Public servants need to promote the concepts of human rights Lawful administration is the way to relieve the pain of taxpayers Government officers have to pass national exams in order to serve our nation and people. Given the low pass rate of national exams, governmental officers are considered to be an elite group. They should be highly capable in their professions. What remains is the matter of their hearts, be it of good or evil and the governmental system. Working in the government for the people is the best way to cultivate oneself. With a heart of loving people and dedication to the nation, officers can commit themselves to the people and win respect and recognition. Rumor of election bribery broke out recently in the election of the Kuomintang (KMT) Central Standing Committee, in response Chairman Ma wholeheartedly supported reform and vowed to clean things up. As a result, an unprecedented thing happened when all the members of the Central Standing Committee resigned for re-election. Thus the whole nation anxiously watches to see if the code of ethics and integrity promoted by Chairman Ma will be implemented in the election of the county and city mayor. The Great Learning, one of the Four Books of Confucianism, teaches to illustrate illustrious virtue; to love the people; and to rest in the highest excellence. It is a nation’s fortune to have governmental officers servicing their people with a heart of kindness and dedication to the people with the highest standards of ethics and integrity. The people would like to have officers who desire to serve and lead our nation, not officers who obsess over elections. We used to have officers who do their jobs by the book without any commitment to serving people, to their credit, they still were able to solve some problems. The worst case is to have officers who abuse his/her legal powers manipulate rules and even violate laws. Civilians are at the mercy of such officers when they wield the force of government and the reputation of the government becomes disgraced by their actions as well. The delayed justice of a no guilt ruling or compensation is meaningless for the people who suffer such deep pain at the hands of such officers. If our officers can do their jobs with a heart bent on protecting human rights based on people and the rule of law, we can alleviate the current situation and achieve real practice of the two international covenants signed by President Ma.   Abolish the bad practices of officers deliberately breaking the law and covering for one another The first article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights says all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. The God-given human rights have to be based upon people and the rule of law. The exercise of human rights can be traced and observed in individuals, families, societies, education system, sports, religious practices, cultures, ethnic groups and nations. Chaos in society and politics will lead to fear and unease for people. People’s hearts will change as the environment changes in order to accommodate their own needs. Impartiality can be achieved in principle, but that does not necessarily mean it is achievable on ethical grounds. The errors and bad practices committed by officers who violate laws and abuse power have resulted in misery for millions of people. The purpose of emphasizing human rights is to lead people towards kindness and goodness. In addition to kind motivations, detailed knowledge and courage out of moral understanding are required. People will from time to time commit misdemeanors even when equipped with legal knowledge. Therefore, it is necessary to ask officers to abide by the procedural requirements of law when performing governmental affairs so as to reduce the possibilities of the government making mistakes, protect the legal rights of the people and make human rights prevail. Taiwan law has made it clear that officers manipulating rules, abusing powers and violating laws is more than an issue of morals and ethics; it is also a serious crime and offence. If criminal charges are involved, the penalty can be 50% heavier than in normal civilian cases. Supervisors are responsible to oversee the conduct of his/her subordinates. If the supervisor neglects or harbors the offences of his subordinates, he has to be collectively held responsible. The judges of administrative courts should investigate cases prudentially, impartially, fairly and openly. Judges should take responsibility to revoke legal penalties if an order was issued without lawful grounds in the first place or the officers have violated procedural codes or broken the law, instead of only asking for the original administrative branches to resubmit a law-compliance order. Only in this way will people no longer suffer miseries from governments perpetuating mistakes. In addition, in dealing with governmental officers involved in criminal cases, judges should refer the cases to prosecutors as a warning to others who may be tempted to following a bad example. Such actions are real patriotic practices.   Real democracy and true practice of law exist only when human rights are protected  The United Nations dedicated the years from 1995 to 2004 as the Decade for Human Rights Education, not only to proactively promote the education on human rights subjects, but also to address the human right issues occurring around the globe. In correspondence to the United Nations goals, I presented an essay “Sharing Goals for Economic and Social Development” in response to the urgent need for global solidarity at the 53rd Annual DPI/NGO Conference, and delivered the Global Endorsement of Declarations for Human Rights of World Citizens and for “Love of the World, A Wish for Peace” with 2 million signatures from 158 countries to the United Nations in 2004. In addition, I have also met with former UN Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan several times at the UN headquarters in New York, where we discussed the implementation of the Natural Rights stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the establishment of a balance mechanism in international society in order to establish the real practice and proper respect of human rights.  In 2008, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote to express his gratitude toward my devotion and interactions with the United Nations throughout the years, stating that “the Secretary-General remains deeply committed to efforts to establish and maintain world peace, a goal made that much easier, thanks to the support of individuals like you for your interest in the work and goals of the Organization”.  In 2009, President Obama of the United States and I have engaged in correspondence discussions on the related issues of love, peace, and human rights in several exchanging letters.  President Obama personally wrote the letter to me, mentioning that “the future we leave to our children and grandchildren will be determined by our willingness to shoulder each other’s burdens, take great risks, and march forward. With your help, we will build on what we have already achieved and lay a foundation for real and lasting progress”.  In 2008 I was invited to participate in the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World and the 5th Global Symposium: ‘Awakening Planetary Consciousness’ in attendance were nearly 300 chief judges and NGO representatives and participants from 85 nations. The discussion was centered on the law as the last defense of human rights. One matter of consensus from that conference was that legal enforcers, with powers endowed by law, play an important role in safeguarding human rights by leading through personal example. In the conference Dr. Virgilijus Valancius, President of the Supreme Administrative Court of Lithuania, said that in democratic society, everybody follows legal rules including head of states, members of government, and high-ranking officers. There must be a legal mechanism within the judicial system to swiftly correct and stop the violation of laws whenever it happens. On the other hand, the national judicial systems and authorities have to follow the practice of international laws and apply them into national legal mechanisms in order to broaden the coverage of law, protect human rights as well as the fundamental values of humanity. The aspirations of people and governance of a nation all hinge upon the practice of human rights. The prevailing exercise and protection of human rights should start immediately. In a democratic society, all rules and regulations are established for the benefit of the people. It is the good blessing of a nation and the fortune of its people and the future generations to have government officers that administer laws with conscience. We all have to understand and practice the natural rights based on people and the rule of law in order to protect and uphold the basic God-given human rights.   Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:33:10 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_International-Human-Rights-Day/BLOG/1920116/45137.html Ruchen 2010-02-26T18:33:10Z News and Politics Breaking News myVOA International Human Rights Day： Natural Rights Based on the People and the Rule of Law   Dr. Hong, Tao-TzeZhang-men-ren of Tai Ji MenPresident of Federation of World Peace and LoveHonorary Vice-President of Association of World Citizens UN/NGO/DPI/ECOSOC President of Association of World Citizens, Taiwan   Human rights are a universal fundamental value of humanity.  That is, what we do to protect the least fortunate in society is a reflection of our own humanity.  Additionally, those who would empower themselves by denying rights and protections to others would deny them to all that they are capable of and hence we protect our own rights by protecting the rights of others.  The world of the 21st century has awoken to the wisdom of defining and protecting human rights. At this critical moment of history, I would like to call attention to the necessity for the God-given human rights based upon the needs of people and ruled by law to prevail in the world. In May 2009 President Ma of the Republic of China signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), which have been adopted and enacted by the Taiwanese legislature and became domestic laws on December 10, 2009. The ICCPR and the ICESCR along with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) form the International Bill of Human Rights. The adoption of the ICCPR and the ICESCR marks a milestone in the progress of cultural advancement of developed nations and demonstrates special importance for Taiwan as it enters the second century of its history. A society of fairness and justice is a place where people can live and prosper. The division and balance of power anchors social order, promotes national security, prevents the abuse of administrative power and restricts the passage of inappropriate bills so as to uphold civilian’s rights. The basic human rights to life, work, property, freedom of speech and religion, and the freedom to move are clearly defined in the constitution of Taiwan. Everyone living in Taiwan should enjoy the same protections under the constitution.   Taxation without respect to human rights is a source of civilian pain The Administrative Enforcement Agency recently revealed appalling statistics. As of October 2009, the outstanding number of overdue administrative enforcement cases on taxes and duties is close to 4.2 million cases with total value of NT$ 440 billion. With 7,785,035 households registered in Taiwan, the 4.2 million cases mean that more than half of Taiwanese households have overdue taxes and duties and are subject to administrative enforcement by the government. The number speaks for itself with only two possibilities;  either social order in Taiwan has broken down to the degree that over half of the population habitually participate in tax evasion, or there has been a serious breakdown in the quality of tax assessment and collection, either case requires substantial redress.  If the tax authority is the source of the problem and the Administrative Enforcement Agency follows the instructions of the tax authority, the problem is compounded and is a waste of administrative and judicial resources and incurs high social costs. This is something the government cannot afford to ignore. On November 6, 2009 the Minister of the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Sush-Der Lee, when participating in a seminar on the Remedy for the Tax Administration organized by Soochow University on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, said the objective of taxation is for the taxpayers to pay taxes out of willingness and for the government to only collect justified taxes. As such, related governmental agencies should seek solutions to the problem. Inevitably, there is a tremendous amount of human misery hidden behind the 4.2 million cases of administrative enforcement on overdue taxes and duties waiting for the government to uncover and correct. Statistics show that most of the administrative litigation cases are related to taxation, and the disputes against the material imposition principle contribute the most. Scholar Ge-Chung Ko in the Department of Law of Cheng Kung University found that out of all the taxation disputes from 2006 and 2007, 87% of the rulings were in favor of the tax authorities. Official statistics from the Judicial Yuan also show that the average win rate of cases against tax administrations since 2001 has been below 10%, with the lowest year hitting the nadir of 1.3%. Such a low rate of success in cases against the tax bureaus suggests that civilians cannot obtain adequate remedy through administrative litigation. The primary reason for this is that the tax code is so complicated and convoluted that tax-payers are severely disadvantaged. As such, the addition of Articled 12-1 of the Tax Collection Act is meant to impose responsibilities on the tax administration to document evidence before filing tax cases. With this new responsibility, establishes the ability for civilians to preemptively evaluate their position dramatically reducing mishandled tax cases. This will help to free people from the time and finance consuming burden of dealing with tax agents and regain true human rights on tax grounds.   Unjustified tax bills are a killer of human rights Most troubling is that in today’s free and democratic country of Taiwan, unjustified tax bills do exist. When the tax administration issues erroneous tax bills without lawful grounds, the only remedy available to taxpayers is to apply for an examination of re-computation. If the result of the re-computation is not favorable, the taxpayers must then appeal to the Ministry of Finance, followed by the final recourse of administrative litigation. Assuming the taxpayers is one of the less than 10% to win a case of administrative litigation, the original disciplinary actions issued from the Ministry of Finance will be withdrawn.  Typically at this point, tax agents will make minor adjustments and re-issue a new tax bill; forcing taxpayers to once again file for re-computation, appeal and go to court for administrative litigation again. The cycle perpetually repeats itself with taxpayers living in anxiety and national resources being wasted. It is a troubling state of affairs when the tax authority can so easily flaunt their power above the Ministry of Finance and the Administrative Court with no balancing mechanism in the governmental system to correct false and illegal tax bills. If a taxpayer loses his case in the Supreme Administrative Court, then his case will be subject to immediate enforcement by the Tax Administration; contrarily, if he wins the case, tax agents can redo the math and issue new tax bills. Under these conditions, the people are always the losers and the people must ask "what’s the point of having an administrative remedy?" Taxpayers do not have human right protections in the arena of tax collection. Their constitutional rights of petition, litigation, property and human rights have been infringed upon. Where is the remedy for the people?   Public servants need to promote the concepts of human rights Lawful administration is the way to relieve the pain of taxpayers Government officers have to pass national exams in order to serve our nation and people. Given the low pass rate of national exams, governmental officers are considered to be an elite group. They should be highly capable in their professions. What remains is the matter of their hearts, be it of good or evil and the governmental system. Working in the government for the people is the best way to cultivate oneself. With a heart of loving people and dedication to the nation, officers can commit themselves to the people and win respect and recognition. Rumor of election bribery broke out recently in the election of the Kuomintang (KMT) Central Standing Committee, in response Chairman Ma wholeheartedly supported reform and vowed to clean things up. As a result, an unprecedented thing happened when all the members of the Central Standing Committee resigned for re-election. Thus the whole nation anxiously watches to see if the code of ethics and integrity promoted by Chairman Ma will be implemented in the election of the county and city mayor. The Great Learning, one of the Four Books of Confucianism, teaches to illustrate illustrious virtue; to love the people; and to rest in the highest excellence. It is a nation’s fortune to have governmental officers servicing their people with a heart of kindness and dedication to the people with the highest standards of ethics and integrity. The people would like to have officers who desire to serve and lead our nation, not officers who obsess over elections. We used to have officers who do their jobs by the book without any commitment to serving people, to their credit, they still were able to solve some problems. The worst case is to have officers who abuse his/her legal powers manipulate rules and even violate laws. Civilians are at the mercy of such officers when they wield the force of government and the reputation of the government becomes disgraced by their actions as well. The delayed justice of a no guilt ruling or compensation is meaningless for the people who suffer such deep pain at the hands of such officers. If our officers can do their jobs with a heart bent on protecting human rights based on people and the rule of law, we can alleviate the current situation and achieve real practice of the two international covenants signed by President Ma.   Abolish the bad practices of officers deliberately breaking the law and covering for one another The first article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights says all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. The God-given human rights have to be based upon people and the rule of law. The exercise of human rights can be traced and observed in individuals, families, societies, education system, sports, religious practices, cultures, ethnic groups and nations. Chaos in society and politics will lead to fear and unease for people. People’s hearts will change as the environment changes in order to accommodate their own needs. Impartiality can be achieved in principle, but that does not necessarily mean it is achievable on ethical grounds. The errors and bad practices committed by officers who violate laws and abuse power have resulted in misery for millions of people. The purpose of emphasizing human rights is to lead people towards kindness and goodness. In addition to kind motivations, detailed knowledge and courage out of moral understanding are required. People will from time to time commit misdemeanors even when equipped with legal knowledge. Therefore, it is necessary to ask officers to abide by the procedural requirements of law when performing governmental affairs so as to reduce the possibilities of the government making mistakes, protect the legal rights of the people and make human rights prevail. Taiwan law has made it clear that officers manipulating rules, abusing powers and violating laws is more than an issue of morals and ethics; it is also a serious crime and offence. If criminal charges are involved, the penalty can be 50% heavier than in normal civilian cases. Supervisors are responsible to oversee the conduct of his/her subordinates. If the supervisor neglects or harbors the offences of his subordinates, he has to be collectively held responsible. The judges of administrative courts should investigate cases prudentially, impartially, fairly and openly. Judges should take responsibility to revoke legal penalties if an order was issued without lawful grounds in the first place or the officers have violated procedural codes or broken the law, instead of only asking for the original administrative branches to resubmit a law-compliance order. Only in this way will people no longer suffer miseries from governments perpetuating mistakes. In addition, in dealing with governmental officers involved in criminal cases, judges should refer the cases to prosecutors as a warning to others who may be tempted to following a bad example. Such actions are real patriotic practices.   Real democracy and true practice of law exist only when human rights are protected  The United Nations dedicated the years from 1995 to 2004 as the Decade for Human Rights Education, not only to proactively promote the education on human rights subjects, but also to address the human right issues occurring around the globe. In correspondence to the United Nations goals, I presented an essay “Sharing Goals for Economic and Social Development” in response to the urgent need for global solidarity at the 53rd Annual DPI/NGO Conference, and delivered the Global Endorsement of Declarations for Human Rights of World Citizens and for “Love of the World, A Wish for Peace” with 2 million signatures from 158 countries to the United Nations in 2004. In addition, I have also met with former UN Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan several times at the UN headquarters in New York, where we discussed the implementation of the Natural Rights stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the establishment of a balance mechanism in international society in order to establish the real practice and proper respect of human rights.  In 2008, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote to express his gratitude toward my devotion and interactions with the United Nations throughout the years, stating that “the Secretary-General remains deeply committed to efforts to establish and maintain world peace, a goal made that much easier, thanks to the support of individuals like you for your interest in the work and goals of the Organization”.  In 2009, President Obama of the United States and I have engaged in correspondence discussions on the related issues of love, peace, and human rights in several exchanging letters.  President Obama personally wrote the letter to me, mentioning that “the future we leave to our children and grandchildren will be determined by our willingness to shoulder each other’s burdens, take great risks, and march forward. With your help, we will build on what we have already achieved and lay a foundation for real and lasting progress”.  In 2008 I was invited to participate in the 9th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World and the 5th Global Symposium: ‘Awakening Planetary Consciousness’ in attendance were nearly 300 chief judges and NGO representatives and participants from 85 nations. The discussion was centered on the law as the last defense of human rights. One matter of consensus from that conference was that legal enforcers, with powers endowed by law, play an important role in safeguarding human rights by leading through personal example. In the conference Dr. Virgilijus Valancius, President of the Supreme Administrative Court of Lithuania, said that in democratic society, everybody follows legal rules including head of states, members of government, and high-ranking officers. There must be a legal mechanism within the judicial system to swiftly correct and stop the violation of laws whenever it happens. On the other hand, the national judicial systems and authorities have to follow the practice of international laws and apply them into national legal mechanisms in order to broaden the coverage of law, protect human rights as well as the fundamental values of humanity. The aspirations of people and governance of a nation all hinge upon the practice of human rights. The prevailing exercise and protection of human rights should start immediately. In a democratic society, all rules and regulations are established for the benefit of the people. It is the good blessing of a nation and the fortune of its people and the future generations to have government officers that administer laws with conscience. We all have to understand and practice the natural rights based on people and the rule of law in order to protect and uphold the basic God-given human rights.   breaking news, news and politics nonadult false International Human Rights Day text blog breaking news,news and politics 348 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=20834615&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg?t=1267113122325 false Taiwan, Province of China 1 News and Politics / Breaking News 1 1920116 20834615 Member 340 http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Hospitals-Say-They-Need-Government-Action/VIDEO/933188/45137.html As Republican and Democratic Party lawmakers met in Washington for a White House summit on healthcare reform, VOA looked at what reform could mean for American hospitals. Many are in deep financial trouble. About half are currently operating at a deficit. Jeff Swicord traveled south of Washington to the small town of Warrenton, Virginia to talk with a hospital CEO about the problems he faces and the fixes he would like to see. As Republican and Democratic Party lawmakers met in Washington for a White House summit on healthcare reform, VOA looked at what reform could mean for American hospitals. Many are in deep financial trouble. About half are currently operating at a deficit. Jeff Swicord traveled south of Washington to the small town of Warrenton, Virginia to talk with a hospital CEO about the problems he faces and the fixes he would like to see. Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:21:15 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Hospitals-Say-They-Need-Government-Action/VIDEO/933188/45137.html VOANews_1 2010-02-26T00:21:15Z Science Health myVOA As Republican and Democratic Party lawmakers met in Washington for a White House summit on healthcare reform, VOA looked at what reform could mean for American hospitals. Many are in deep financial trouble. About half are currently operating at a deficit. Jeff Swicord traveled south of Washington to the small town of Warrenton, Virginia to talk with a hospital CEO about the problems he faces and the fixes he would like to see. health nonadult false US Hospitals Say They Need Government Action video health 5771 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5137292&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false United States 0 Science/Health 0 933188 5137292 Admin 107375 http://community.myvoa.com/_A-London-Photo-Exhibit-Features-People-in-the-DRC-/VIDEO/931651/45137.html A new exhibition in London is about people in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. While the country has long struggled with war, poverty and illness, this exhibit and the accompanying book show a different side.  Jennifer Glasse reports for VOA from London.     A new exhibition in London is about people in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. While the country has long struggled with war, poverty and illness, this exhibit and the accompanying book show a different side.  Jennifer Glasse reports for VOA from London.     Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:04:20 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_A-London-Photo-Exhibit-Features-People-in-the-DRC-/VIDEO/931651/45137.html jrogers 2010-02-24T13:04:20Z Entertainment myVOA A new exhibition in London is about people in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. While the country has long struggled with war, poverty and illness, this exhibit and the accompanying book show a different side.  Jennifer Glasse reports for VOA from London.     charity, congo, entertainment, exhibition, illness, london, oxfam, photographer, pictures, poverty, rankin, scottish, teaching, war nonadult false A London Photo Exhibit Features People in the DRC video charity,congo,entertainment,exhibition,illness,london,oxfam,photographer,pictures,poverty,rankin,scottish,teaching,war 2821 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4527844&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false Congo 0 Entertainment 0 931651 4527844 Admin 116851 http://community.myvoa.com/_Obama-Pledges-38-Trillion-Budget/VIDEO/904783/45137.html U.S. President Barack Obama is proposing a $3.8-trillion federal government budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1st.  The plan would push the deficit to a record of nearly $1.6 trillion this year. Both the Senate and House of Representatives must approve the plan. Mr. Obama's Democratic Party holds the majority in both houses.  VOA's Laurel Bowman has more. U.S. President Barack Obama is proposing a $3.8-trillion federal government budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1st.  The plan would push the deficit to a record of nearly $1.6 trillion this year. Both the Senate and House of Representatives must approve the plan. Mr. Obama's Democratic Party holds the majority in both houses.  VOA's Laurel Bowman has more. Mon, 01 Feb 2010 22:01:18 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Obama-Pledges-38-Trillion-Budget/VIDEO/904783/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2010-02-01T22:01:18Z News and Politics myVOA U.S. President Barack Obama is proposing a $3.8-trillion federal government budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1st.  The plan would push the deficit to a record of nearly $1.6 trillion this year. Both the Senate and House of Representatives must approve the plan. Mr. Obama's Democratic Party holds the majority in both houses.  VOA's Laurel Bowman has more. budget, news and politics, obama nonadult false Obama Pledges $3.8-Trillion Budget video budget,news and politics,obama 2528 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 904783 5122122 Admin 108598 http://community.myvoa.com/_Sri-Lanka-Chooses-Tuesday-between-Incumbent-President-and-His-Former-Top-General/VIDEO/896247/45137.html An unusual political irony is reaching a climax on the South Asian island nation of Sri Lanka. The two proclaimed heroes of the recently-ended quarter century civil war, who are openly accusing each other of war crimes, are facing off in the country's presidential election Tuesday. The two Sinhalese Buddhists have focused their campaigns on persuading the minority, mostly Hindu, Tamils, who bore the brunt of the war, to vote for them. The election is being closely watched by international agencies and donor governments. They hope whoever wins will quickly resettle displaced Tamils, demilitarize the country and support reforms designed to protect democratic rights. An unusual political irony is reaching a climax on the South Asian island nation of Sri Lanka. The two proclaimed heroes of the recently-ended quarter century civil war, who are openly accusing each other of war crimes, are facing off in the country's presidential election Tuesday. The two Sinhalese Buddhists have focused their campaigns on persuading the minority, mostly Hindu, Tamils, who bore the brunt of the war, to vote for them. The election is being closely watched by international agencies and donor governments. They hope whoever wins will quickly resettle displaced Tamils, demilitarize the country and support reforms designed to protect democratic rights. Mon, 25 Jan 2010 02:52:07 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Sri-Lanka-Chooses-Tuesday-between-Incumbent-President-and-His-Former-Top-General/VIDEO/896247/45137.html clovett 2010-01-25T02:52:07Z News and Politics myVOA An unusual political irony is reaching a climax on the South Asian island nation of Sri Lanka. The two proclaimed heroes of the recently-ended quarter century civil war, who are openly accusing each other of war crimes, are facing off in the country's presidential election Tuesday. The two Sinhalese Buddhists have focused their campaigns on persuading the minority, mostly Hindu, Tamils, who bore the brunt of the war, to vote for them. The election is being closely watched by international agencies and donor governments. They hope whoever wins will quickly resettle displaced Tamils, demilitarize the country and support reforms designed to protect democratic rights. election, lanka, news and politics, president, sri nonadult false Sri Lanka Chooses Tuesday between Incumbent President and His Former Top General video election,lanka,news and politics,president,sri 4503 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=12205161&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_5126325_45137_12205161_ap_160X120.jpg false United States 0 News and Politics 1 896247 12205161 Gold 7279 http://community.myvoa.com/_Republican-Wins-US-Senate-Seat-of-Late-Liberal-Democrat-Edward-Kennedy/VIDEO/893512/45137.html In a stunning upset, Republican Scott Brown has won a special election in (the northeastern state of) Massachusetts to fill the U.S. Senate seat held for nearly a half-century by the late Democratic Party Senator Edward "Ted" Kennedy.  Brown defeated Democrat Martha Coakley, the state's attorney general by a margin of 52 to 47 percent.  VOA's Carolyn Presutti takes a look at how this affects the balance of the Senate....and the future of the health care bill.       In a stunning upset, Republican Scott Brown has won a special election in (the northeastern state of) Massachusetts to fill the U.S. Senate seat held for nearly a half-century by the late Democratic Party Senator Edward "Ted" Kennedy.  Brown defeated Democrat Martha Coakley, the state's attorney general by a margin of 52 to 47 percent.  VOA's Carolyn Presutti takes a look at how this affects the balance of the Senate....and the future of the health care bill.       Thu, 21 Jan 2010 15:16:31 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Republican-Wins-US-Senate-Seat-of-Late-Liberal-Democrat-Edward-Kennedy/VIDEO/893512/45137.html jrogers 2010-01-21T15:16:31Z News and Politics myVOA In a stunning upset, Republican Scott Brown has won a special election in (the northeastern state of) Massachusetts to fill the U.S. Senate seat held for nearly a half-century by the late Democratic Party Senator Edward "Ted" Kennedy.  Brown defeated Democrat Martha Coakley, the state's attorney general by a margin of 52 to 47 percent.  VOA's Carolyn Presutti takes a look at how this affects the balance of the Senate....and the future of the health care bill.       american life, brown, coakley, defeated, election, kennedy, massachusetts, news and politics, republican, scott, senate, special, us nonadult false Republican Wins US Senate Seat of Late Liberal Democrat Edward Kennedy video american life,brown,coakley,defeated,election,kennedy,massachusetts,news and politics,republican,scott,senate,special,us 2424 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4527844&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false United States 0 News and Politics 0 893512 4527844 Admin 116851 http://community.myvoa.com/_Two-Democratic-Senators-Announce-They-Will-Retire-/VIDEO/882749/45137.html Two veteran Democratic Party senators have announced they will retire instead of running for re-election, in what may be a sign Democrats could face a tough time at the polls in mid-term elections this November.  The loss of either seat would deprive the Democrats of their 60 vote majority in the Senate and give opposition Republicans the power to block legislation. VOA Correspondent Cindy Saine has the story. Two veteran Democratic Party senators have announced they will retire instead of running for re-election, in what may be a sign Democrats could face a tough time at the polls in mid-term elections this November.  The loss of either seat would deprive the Democrats of their 60 vote majority in the Senate and give opposition Republicans the power to block legislation. VOA Correspondent Cindy Saine has the story. Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:17:54 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Two-Democratic-Senators-Announce-They-Will-Retire-/VIDEO/882749/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2010-01-08T00:17:54Z News and Politics myVOA Two veteran Democratic Party senators have announced they will retire instead of running for re-election, in what may be a sign Democrats could face a tough time at the polls in mid-term elections this November.  The loss of either seat would deprive the Democrats of their 60 vote majority in the Senate and give opposition Republicans the power to block legislation. VOA Correspondent Cindy Saine has the story. dodd, dorgan, news and politics, retire nonadult false Two Democratic Senators Announce They Will Retire video dodd,dorgan,news and politics,retire 4688 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 882749 5122122 Admin 108598 http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Senate-Health-Care-Bill-Inches-Closer-to-Passage/VIDEO/869944/45137.html U.S. President Barack Obama's Democratic Party on Monday moved closer to passing a major health care bill in the U.S. Senate.  VOA's Laurel Bowman has the story.       U.S. President Barack Obama's Democratic Party on Monday moved closer to passing a major health care bill in the U.S. Senate.  VOA's Laurel Bowman has the story.       Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:17:12 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Senate-Health-Care-Bill-Inches-Closer-to-Passage/VIDEO/869944/45137.html jrogers 2009-12-22T15:17:12Z Science Health myVOA U.S. President Barack Obama's Democratic Party on Monday moved closer to passing a major health care bill in the U.S. Senate.  VOA's Laurel Bowman has the story.       american life, bill, care, democratic, economy, health, major, news and politics, obama, party, passing, science, senate, us nonadult false US Senate Health Care Bill Inches Closer to Passage video american life,bill,care,democratic,economy,health,major,news and politics,obama,party,passing,science,senate,us 3957 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4527844&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false United States 0 Science/Health 0 869944 4527844 Admin 116851 http://community.myvoa.com/_Kenya-Serves-as-Transportation-Hub-for-Food-Aid-to-East-Africa/VIDEO/869488/45137.html Despite the post-election violence that broke out in Kenya last year, the East African country is widely viewed as an island of stability and economic progress in a region plagued by war and poverty. And because of this, Kenya serves as a transportation hub for international food aid to Uganda, southern Sudan, Somalia and the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cathy Majtenyi reports. Despite the post-election violence that broke out in Kenya last year, the East African country is widely viewed as an island of stability and economic progress in a region plagued by war and poverty. And because of this, Kenya serves as a transportation hub for international food aid to Uganda, southern Sudan, Somalia and the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cathy Majtenyi reports. Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:54:49 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Kenya-Serves-as-Transportation-Hub-for-Food-Aid-to-East-Africa/VIDEO/869488/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2009-12-22T00:54:49Z News and Politics myVOA Despite the post-election violence that broke out in Kenya last year, the East African country is widely viewed as an island of stability and economic progress in a region plagued by war and poverty. And because of this, Kenya serves as a transportation hub for international food aid to Uganda, southern Sudan, Somalia and the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cathy Majtenyi reports. africa, aid, ethiopia famine, food, kenya, news and politics nonadult false Kenya Serves as Transportation Hub for Food Aid to East Africa video africa,aid,ethiopia famine,food,kenya,news and politics 3563 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 869488 5122122 Admin 108598 http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Envoy-N-Korea-Inclined-to-Rejoin-Nuclear-Talks/VIDEO/866140/45137.html The US envoy for North Korea, Stephen Bosworth, said Wednesday that officials in Pyongyang told him last week the communist state "would like" to return to the stalled six-party nuclear talks, but made no commitment to do so. The State Department confirmed that Bosworth gave North Korean officials a letter from President Barack Obama for North Korean leader Kim Jong Il. VOA's David Gollust reports from the State Department. The US envoy for North Korea, Stephen Bosworth, said Wednesday that officials in Pyongyang told him last week the communist state "would like" to return to the stalled six-party nuclear talks, but made no commitment to do so. The State Department confirmed that Bosworth gave North Korean officials a letter from President Barack Obama for North Korean leader Kim Jong Il. VOA's David Gollust reports from the State Department. Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:54:29 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_US-Envoy-N-Korea-Inclined-to-Rejoin-Nuclear-Talks/VIDEO/866140/45137.html David_Clements 2009-12-17T16:54:29Z News and Politics myVOA The US envoy for North Korea, Stephen Bosworth, said Wednesday that officials in Pyongyang told him last week the communist state "would like" to return to the stalled six-party nuclear talks, but made no commitment to do so. The State Department confirmed that Bosworth gave North Korean officials a letter from President Barack Obama for North Korean leader Kim Jong Il. VOA's David Gollust reports from the State Department. korea, news and politics, nuclear, nuclear talks nonadult false US Envoy: N. Korea Inclined to Rejoin Nuclear Talks video korea,news and politics,nuclear,nuclear talks 1566 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=3947263&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_4007186_45137_3947263_ap_160X120.jpg false Korea, Democratic People's Republic of 0 News and Politics 0 866140 3947263 Admin 113667 http://community.myvoa.com/_Clinton-Cautions-Latin-American-States-About-Iranian-Influence/VIDEO/861483/45137.html U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Friday urged Latin American countries to "think twice" about establishing links with Iran, which she said is the world's leading promoter and exporter of terrorism. Clinton also expressed concern about democratically-elected leaders in Latin America who later move to undermine democratic institutions.  VOA's David Gollust reports from the State Department. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Friday urged Latin American countries to "think twice" about establishing links with Iran, which she said is the world's leading promoter and exporter of terrorism. Clinton also expressed concern about democratically-elected leaders in Latin America who later move to undermine democratic institutions.  VOA's David Gollust reports from the State Department. Sat, 12 Dec 2009 00:15:11 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Clinton-Cautions-Latin-American-States-About-Iranian-Influence/VIDEO/861483/45137.html VOANews_1 2009-12-12T00:15:11Z News and Politics myVOA U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Friday urged Latin American countries to "think twice" about establishing links with Iran, which she said is the world's leading promoter and exporter of terrorism. Clinton also expressed concern about democratically-elected leaders in Latin America who later move to undermine democratic institutions.  VOA's David Gollust reports from the State Department. 2009 middleeast, news and politics nonadult false Clinton Cautions Latin American States About Iranian Influence video 2009 middleeast,news and politics 4030 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5137292&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false United States 0 News and Politics 0 861483 5137292 Admin 107375 http://community.myvoa.com/_Obama-Faces-Divided-US-Public-Congress-on-Afghanistan/VIDEO/853609/45137.html President Barack Obama's decision to send 30-thousand additional U.S. troops to Afghanistan comes as the American public appears increasingly skeptical about the U.S. role there. In addition, Mr. Obama faces opposition from some members of his own Democratic Party who fear a quagmire in Afghanistan, and doubts from some Republicans who question his commitment to the struggle.  VOA National Correspondent Jim Malone has more from Washington. President Barack Obama's decision to send 30-thousand additional U.S. troops to Afghanistan comes as the American public appears increasingly skeptical about the U.S. role there. In addition, Mr. Obama faces opposition from some members of his own Democratic Party who fear a quagmire in Afghanistan, and doubts from some Republicans who question his commitment to the struggle.  VOA National Correspondent Jim Malone has more from Washington. Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:05:39 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Obama-Faces-Divided-US-Public-Congress-on-Afghanistan/VIDEO/853609/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2009-12-03T00:05:39Z News and Politics myVOA President Barack Obama's decision to send 30-thousand additional U.S. troops to Afghanistan comes as the American public appears increasingly skeptical about the U.S. role there. In addition, Mr. Obama faces opposition from some members of his own Democratic Party who fear a quagmire in Afghanistan, and doubts from some Republicans who question his commitment to the struggle.  VOA National Correspondent Jim Malone has more from Washington. news and politics, obama afghan strategy nonadult false Obama Faces Divided US Public, Congress on Afghanistan video news and politics,obama afghan strategy 4820 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 853609 5122122 Admin 108598 http://community.myvoa.com/_Conflict-Minerals-Under-Study-in-US-Congress/VIDEO/848777/45137.html Bipartisan legislation on so called "conflict minerals" was recently introduced in the US House of Reprresebtatives. Conflict minerals are metals mined in war-torn countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo - that are imported for key elements in electronic products. The bill is designed to create transparency and allow consumers to make informed choices when they purchase electronic devices like cell phones. Mariama Diallo reports Bipartisan legislation on so called "conflict minerals" was recently introduced in the US House of Reprresebtatives. Conflict minerals are metals mined in war-torn countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo - that are imported for key elements in electronic products. The bill is designed to create transparency and allow consumers to make informed choices when they purchase electronic devices like cell phones. Mariama Diallo reports Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:37:59 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Conflict-Minerals-Under-Study-in-US-Congress/VIDEO/848777/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2009-11-26T15:37:59Z News and Politics myVOA Bipartisan legislation on so called "conflict minerals" was recently introduced in the US House of Reprresebtatives. Conflict minerals are metals mined in war-torn countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo - that are imported for key elements in electronic products. The bill is designed to create transparency and allow consumers to make informed choices when they purchase electronic devices like cell phones. Mariama Diallo reports conflict, congress, drc, minerals, news and politics, us nonadult false Conflict Minerals Under Study in US Congress video conflict,congress,drc,minerals,news and politics,us 3642 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 848777 5122122 Admin 108598 http://community.myvoa.com/_Healthcare-Reform-Bill-Passes-US-House-of-Representatives/VIDEO/834407/45137.html It's a major victory for President Barack Obama, and his Democratic Party supporters in the House of Representatives. But what took a matter of hours in the House could take weeks in the Senate.  VOA's Laurel Bowman takes a look at the hurdles this healthcare legislation faces ahead. It's a major victory for President Barack Obama, and his Democratic Party supporters in the House of Representatives. But what took a matter of hours in the House could take weeks in the Senate.  VOA's Laurel Bowman takes a look at the hurdles this healthcare legislation faces ahead. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 23:09:21 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Healthcare-Reform-Bill-Passes-US-House-of-Representatives/VIDEO/834407/45137.html nordicwalkingus 2009-11-09T23:09:21Z News and Politics myVOA It's a major victory for President Barack Obama, and his Democratic Party supporters in the House of Representatives. But what took a matter of hours in the House could take weeks in the Senate.  VOA's Laurel Bowman takes a look at the hurdles this healthcare legislation faces ahead. care, democrats, health, house, news and politics, obama, reform, republicans, senate, us nonadult false Healthcare Reform Bill Passes US House of Representatives video care,democrats,health,house,news and politics,obama,reform,republicans,senate,us 3201 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5122122&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_3915015_45137_5122122_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 News and Politics 0 834407 5122122 Admin 108598 http://community.myvoa.com/_Barack-Obama-Election-Anniversary/BLOG/1460073/45137.html One year ago, young supporters of Barack Obama at colleges across the country poured into the streets to celebrate his presidential election victory.  Hundreds of supporters in the college town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, gathered in jubilation, shouting “Obama is my president!” and “Yes, we did!”  Just down the road at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, college students sat glued to their televisions and screamed with excitement when Mr. Obama’s victory was announced.Today, I walked down the same street at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that was flooded with students last year.  I watched cars and buses casually cross the same intersection and reminisced about the excitement that once blasted from the city, now long forgotten in the crisp fall air.  But when I arrived at an Obama event in Durham, I realized that the message of hope from some supporters remains.“[President] Obama inspires us that we can accomplish things if we stick together and stick with it.  One year later, that hope is still there,” Giles Harrison-Conwill, 28, said.The Democratic National Committee group called “Obama for America” during the campaign changed its name to “Organizing for America” after Mr. Obama’s Inauguration.  The group is the first ever grassroots team put together for a sitting president.“It is a very special way to bring in people supporting not only the candidate during the campaign, but now supporting his agenda,” organizer Zack Hawkins said.  “Thirteen million e-mail addresses and the millions of people that voted now have a way to stay as connected, if not more connected, than they did one year ago.”It is fitting that on the anniversary of Mr. Obama’s election win, some supporters in Durham chose to celebrate near a college campus.  Two-thirds of young voters between the ages of 18 and 29 chose Mr. Obama last year according to national exit polls, and Hawkins said young Americans are the “keys” to Mr. Obama’s grassroots operation. “Our campus organizing teams put together rallies and get people to commit to calling their members of Congress,” he said.  “They are very motivated students that support and understand the issues in front of us…You want to make sure you are educating the citizenship, not just exciting them once every four years.”  But volunteer Damian Smith, 30, said the younger generation can sometimes be the hardest to keep involved.“People ages 18 to 30 are the most difficult to build up, because a lot of them feel like ‘Oh I voted, I have done my job’,” he said.  Smith added that despite this setback, the grassroots group is slowly trying to increase youth participation to the level it was during the presidential campaign.Obama supporters said their political activism has not always proved as successful as it did on November 4, 2008.  For example, Mr. Obama’s attempts at health care reform have fallen flat in Congress thus far.Smith, however, said these delays just increase his responsibility to keep going.“Getting him elected was only part of the process.  In order to get what you really want, you have to start the work and support that agenda that you voted for,” he said.And supporters at the celebration proudly pointed out they have at least three more years to keep pushing for Mr. Obama’s reforms. One year ago, young supporters of Barack Obama at colleges across the country poured into the streets to celebrate his presidential election victory.  Hundreds of supporters in the college town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, gathered in jubilation, shouting “Obama is my president!” and “Yes, we did!”  Just down the road at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, college students sat glued to their televisions and screamed with excitement when Mr. Obama’s victory was announced.Today, I walked down the same street at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that was flooded with students last year.  I watched cars and buses casually cross the same intersection and reminisced about the excitement that once blasted from the city, now long forgotten in the crisp fall air.  But when I arrived at an Obama event in Durham, I realized that the message of hope from some supporters remains.“[President] Obama inspires us that we can accomplish things if we stick together and stick with it.  One year later, that hope is still there,” Giles Harrison-Conwill, 28, said.The Democratic National Committee group called “Obama for America” during the campaign changed its name to “Organizing for America” after Mr. Obama’s Inauguration.  The group is the first ever grassroots team put together for a sitting president.“It is a very special way to bring in people supporting not only the candidate during the campaign, but now supporting his agenda,” organizer Zack Hawkins said.  “Thirteen million e-mail addresses and the millions of people that voted now have a way to stay as connected, if not more connected, than they did one year ago.”It is fitting that on the anniversary of Mr. Obama’s election win, some supporters in Durham chose to celebrate near a college campus.  Two-thirds of young voters between the ages of 18 and 29 chose Mr. Obama last year according to national exit polls, and Hawkins said young Americans are the “keys” to Mr. Obama’s grassroots operation. “Our campus organizing teams put together rallies and get people to commit to calling their members of Congress,” he said.  “They are very motivated students that support and understand the issues in front of us…You want to make sure you are educating the citizenship, not just exciting them once every four years.”  But volunteer Damian Smith, 30, said the younger generation can sometimes be the hardest to keep involved.“People ages 18 to 30 are the most difficult to build up, because a lot of them feel like ‘Oh I voted, I have done my job’,” he said.  Smith added that despite this setback, the grassroots group is slowly trying to increase youth participation to the level it was during the presidential campaign.Obama supporters said their political activism has not always proved as successful as it did on November 4, 2008.  For example, Mr. Obama’s attempts at health care reform have fallen flat in Congress thus far.Smith, however, said these delays just increase his responsibility to keep going.“Getting him elected was only part of the process.  In order to get what you really want, you have to start the work and support that agenda that you voted for,” he said.And supporters at the celebration proudly pointed out they have at least three more years to keep pushing for Mr. Obama’s reforms. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 03:15:54 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Barack-Obama-Election-Anniversary/BLOG/1460073/45137.html Carla_Babb 2009-11-05T03:15:54Z myVOA One year ago, young supporters of Barack Obama at colleges across the country poured into the streets to celebrate his presidential election victory.  Hundreds of supporters in the college town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, gathered in jubilation, shouting “Obama is my president!” and “Yes, we did!”  Just down the road at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, college students sat glued to their televisions and screamed with excitement when Mr. Obama’s victory was announced.Today, I walked down the same street at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that was flooded with students last year.  I watched cars and buses casually cross the same intersection and reminisced about the excitement that once blasted from the city, now long forgotten in the crisp fall air.  But when I arrived at an Obama event in Durham, I realized that the message of hope from some supporters remains.“[President] Obama inspires us that we can accomplish things if we stick together and stick with it.  One year later, that hope is still there,” Giles Harrison-Conwill, 28, said.The Democratic National Committee group called “Obama for America” during the campaign changed its name to “Organizing for America” after Mr. Obama’s Inauguration.  The group is the first ever grassroots team put together for a sitting president.“It is a very special way to bring in people supporting not only the candidate during the campaign, but now supporting his agenda,” organizer Zack Hawkins said.  “Thirteen million e-mail addresses and the millions of people that voted now have a way to stay as connected, if not more connected, than they did one year ago.”It is fitting that on the anniversary of Mr. Obama’s election win, some supporters in Durham chose to celebrate near a college campus.  Two-thirds of young voters between the ages of 18 and 29 chose Mr. Obama last year according to national exit polls, and Hawkins said young Americans are the “keys” to Mr. Obama’s grassroots operation. “Our campus organizing teams put together rallies and get people to commit to calling their members of Congress,” he said.  “They are very motivated students that support and understand the issues in front of us…You want to make sure you are educating the citizenship, not just exciting them once every four years.”  But volunteer Damian Smith, 30, said the younger generation can sometimes be the hardest to keep involved.“People ages 18 to 30 are the most difficult to build up, because a lot of them feel like ‘Oh I voted, I have done my job’,” he said.  Smith added that despite this setback, the grassroots group is slowly trying to increase youth participation to the level it was during the presidential campaign.Obama supporters said their political activism has not always proved as successful as it did on November 4, 2008.  For example, Mr. Obama’s attempts at health care reform have fallen flat in Congress thus far.Smith, however, said these delays just increase his responsibility to keep going.“Getting him elected was only part of the process.  In order to get what you really want, you have to start the work and support that agenda that you voted for,” he said.And supporters at the celebration proudly pointed out they have at least three more years to keep pushing for Mr. Obama’s reforms. anniversary, barack, election, obama, voa staff blogger nonadult false Barack Obama Election Anniversary text blog anniversary,barack,election,obama,voa staff blogger 1346 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4633146&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/photos/PHOTO_2485929_45137_4633146_ap_160X120.jpg false 1 0 1460073 4633146 Member 140 http://community.myvoa.com/_Republicans-Win-Governors-Races-in-Two-Key-US-States/VIDEO/830772/45137.html U.S. President Barack Obama's Democratic Party lost key elections for governor in two states Tuesday, in what opposition Republicans claim was a referendum on Mr. Obama's leadership.  Democrats see it differently. Carolyn Presutti takes a look. U.S. President Barack Obama's Democratic Party lost key elections for governor in two states Tuesday, in what opposition Republicans claim was a referendum on Mr. Obama's leadership.  Democrats see it differently. Carolyn Presutti takes a look. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:41:32 GMT http://community.myvoa.com/_Republicans-Win-Governors-Races-in-Two-Key-US-States/VIDEO/830772/45137.html VOANews_1 2009-11-05T00:41:32Z News and Politics myVOA U.S. President Barack Obama's Democratic Party lost key elections for governor in two states Tuesday, in what opposition Republicans claim was a referendum on Mr. Obama's leadership.  Democrats see it differently. Carolyn Presutti takes a look. news and politics nonadult false Republicans Win Governors' Races in Two Key US States video news and politics 2960 0 0.0 http://community.myvoa.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=5137292&as=45137 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/45137/icons/defaultMember_45137_portrait160X120.jpg false United States 0 News and Politics 0 830772 5137292 Admin 107375