Policy and Rights

Mexican drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, known as 'El Mencho', was killed in a military raid in Jalisco after being seriously injured in a shootout, dying during an air transfer to Mexico City.The US provided intelligence support for the operation, as confirmed by Mexico's Defence Ministry.The US had designated the Jalisco New Generation Cartel as a terrorist organization and offered a reward for information leading to Oseguera's capture.Following Oseguera's death, violent protests with roadblocks and burning vehicles occurred in Jalisco and other states.At the Human Rights Council opening in Geneva, Guterres warned human rights are under attack globally and said `This assault is not coming from the shadows. It is happening in plain sight—and often led by those who hold the greatest power`.Guterres blamed political choices and donor shifts, citing US President Donald Trump's 2025 aid cuts and other major donors' follow suit, weakening rights enforcement.Across conflicts from Sudan to Myanmar, Guterres pointed to mass civilian suffering and said, "Humanitarian needs are exploding while funding collapses," targeting refugees, LGBTIQ+ communities, minorities, and indigenous peoples.The U.N. human rights office is now in "survival mode", Guterres said, as funding shortages blocked two 2025 investigations and Washington paid about $160 million of over $4 billion owed.Looking ahead, climate and AI pose accelerating threats to rights, the UN warned as António Guterres and Volker Türk said the two-state solution is being stripped away in broad daylight amid rising domination.The United States will withdraw from the U.N. Human Rights Council and will not resume funding for the U.N. agency helping Palestinian refugees, as announced by President Donald Trump.The U.S. previously left the Human Rights Council last year and cut funding to UNRWA after allegations from Israel that it housed Hamas militants, which UNRWA denies.Trump's announcement coincided with a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who claims both the rights body and UNRWA are biased against Israel.The decision to end funding to UNRWA follows legislation that halted American funding until March 2025, confirming it will not be restored under Trump.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Minister Hodgson reaffirmed Canada's enduring commitment to transatlantic stability and Arctic co-operation. The Minister and the Commissioner discussed further co-operation on multilateral critical minerals mechanisms, including the Critical Minerals Production Alliance and Critical Minerals Action Plan. Building on the direction provided in the EU–Canada Strategic Partnership of the Future launched in June 2025, the Minister and Commissioner discussed EU instruments that could facilitate enhanced Canada–EU trade and investment, including the EU's aggregate liquefied natural gas (LNG) purchasing mechanism. “Extortion is a serious crime that harms Canadians, businesses, and communities. Our government is strengthening financial intelligence and working closely with law enforcement and financial institutions to better detect and disrupt extortion, support investigations, and help protect Canadians.” - The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National RevenueBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

n a world of ongoing and heightened economic uncertainty, Budget 2026 makes careful choices to protect what matters most to British Columbians through investments to protect services, such as health care, education and social supports, while securing B.C.'s future through skills training and targeted investments to spur economic growth. “Over the past eight years, we have built schools, hospitals and invested in the services British Columbians rely on every day,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Finance. “Our investments have allowed us to enter these uncertain times from a position of strength, but we need to be realistic about the difficult financial situation we face as a province. We are choosing to safeguard what we've built, while growing our economy to secure good jobs and economic prosperity for people and families.” Budget 2026 opens the door further for people to train for good-paying careers in the skilled trades through $283 million in new funding over three years. This will expand spaces for in-demand trades training programs, increase per-seat funding to training centres, and enhance the B.C. Employer Training Grant to double apprenticeship seats by 2028-29. A new $400-million British Columbia strategic investment fund will help B.C. invest quickly in collaborative opportunities and major projects as the federal government invests in Canada's sovereignty. Budget 2026 supports businesses to leverage new opportunities through a new temporary Manufacturing and Processing Investment Tax Credit for investing in new buildings, machinery and equipment. To support B.C.'s maritime sector, which is the largest in Canada, Budget 2026 extends the Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Industry Tax Credit until the end of 2027. Safeguarding what matters most in turbulent times Budget 2026 protects the most critical services that people rely on every day through $5.1 billion in funding to strengthen health care, K-12 education and supports for people who need care and assistance. This includes funding to recruit and train more health-care professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and long-term care support workers in communities across B.C. Budget 2026 includes $634 million in new funding for K-12 education over three years, including a $167-million investment in the Classroom Enhancement Fund, which will result in more teachers for everyone, as well as special-education teachers and teacher psychologists and counsellors. New investments of $131 million will support intensive, specialized mental-health and addictions treatment for people with concurrent challenges of complex mental illness, addictions and acquired brain injuries. It will also fund involuntary treatment beds in Prince George, Maple Ridge and Surrey. A new $330-million lift to ChildCareBC will protect the child care services families rely on by maintaining lower fees, and the spaces and support for operators and educators achieved over the past eight years. Budget 2026 also provides $25 million in new funding to support the expansion of child care options on school grounds. With $475 million in new funding for children and youth with disabilities, families will get direct funding for support services and better access to more service providers in their communities. Budget 2026 provides $139 million in funding over three years to reduce repeat, violent offending and chronic property crime, and support timely access to justice. Making disciplined spending choices to reduce spending and increase revenue Government has exceeded initial targets set in Budget 2025 for expenditure management through operational and program savings. Budget 2026 continues that work by introducing targets to reduce the size of the public sector, and generates new revenue over the three-year fiscal plan. “We are making careful choices to secure B.C.'s future,” Bailey said. “We are updating the tax system to raise revenue and prevent cuts to critical services, while keeping B.C. one of the lowest-taxed provinces for working and middle-class families. At the same time, we are reducing government spending and carefully repacing our capital plan to deliver services and infrastructure more efficiently.” To improve B.C.'s fiscal outlook and raise revenues to protect critical services, Budget 2026 increases the tax rate of the first income-tax bracket by less than 0.6 percentage points. The average increase will be $76 in 2026, and more than 40% of taxpayers will see savings when combined with an increase to the B.C. Tax Reduction Credit. The credit offsets the tax change for British Columbians with lower incomes. British Columbians with middle incomes will continue to have some of the lowest taxes in the country, and government funding continues to help people with costs through measures such as the BC Family Benefit, more affordable child care and lower car insurance. Budget 2026 also increases the speculation tax for foreign owners and untaxed worldwide earners, as well as taxes on luxury homes worth more than $3 million through changes to the Additional School Tax. Deficits are projected to decline over the fiscal plan from $13.3 billion in 2026-27 to $11.4 billion in 2028-29 as government continues to achieve its targets through the efficiency review, hiring restrictions, and streamlining program and service delivery. B.C.'s deficit-to-GDP ratio is projected to decline from 2.9% in 2026-27 to 2.3% in 2028-29. B.C.'s debt-to-GDP ratio is among the best in Canada and remains affordable relative to provincial peers, even as the Province works to bring it down. A sustainable capital plan The Province is continuing to build infrastructure to create jobs and meet the needs of British Columbians. Over the next three years, government will make nearly $38 billion worth of taxpayer-supported investment to continue construction on 17 major hospitals and acute care facilities, 66 K-12 school additions and improvements, and important transit and transportation expansions. After years of building infrastructure to close gaps and strengthen services, B.C. is adjusting the pace of the capital plan to make sure it is sustainable over the long term. Budget 2026 makes realistic choices to raise revenue and safeguard critical services amid a time of financial challenges and global uncertainty, while making the public sector more efficient to ensure more dollars reach the front lines. Learn More:Read the 2026 Budget and Fiscal Plan: https://www.bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/To learn more about Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger BC and Canada, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/LookWest/To learn more about how B.C. is building a strong economy, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/strong-economyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Canada is talking the tragedy in Tubler Rifge BCBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

The United Nations on Tuesday warned of a sharp escalation in violence in South Sudan, driven by political deadlock among the signatories to the country's fragile peace deal, as clashes, displacement and humanitarian access restrictions worsen. Briefing the UN Security Council, UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix said rising tensions linked to stalled implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement had led to armed confrontations across several regions, particularly in Jonglei state. He said fighting between government and opposition forces had intensified in recent weeks, with reports of aerial bombardments, inflammatory rhetoric and mass displacement. More than 280,000 people have been displaced by violence in Jonglei alone, according to government figures, he added. Lacroix expressed concern over reports that government forces had ordered the temporary relocation of civilians, as well as UN and humanitarian personnel, from parts of Jonglei in late January ahead of a planned military operation, although authorities later denied issuing such instructions. He also warned that unilateral initiatives to amend the 2018 peace agreement, including proposals to delay constitution-making until after elections, risk undermining the accord's primacy. The main opposition group, the SPLM/A-IO, has rejected the initiatives, citing ongoing legal proceedings involving First Vice President Riek Machar and demanding his release before engaging in political dialogue. South Sudan remains one of the most dangerous countries for aid workers, Lacroix said, noting that 350 attacks on humanitarian staff and facilities were recorded in 2025, up from 255 the previous year. Access constraints persist, particularly in opposition-held areas, as the country battles its worst cholera outbreak, with more than 98,000 cases reported since September 2024. He said violence in parts of Jonglei had forced the closure of nutrition sites and health facilities, cutting off care for thousands of children and pregnant women, while recent attacks and looting of humanitarian barges in Upper Nile state had further shrunk humanitarian space. Lacroix also warned that cost-cutting measures at the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) were limiting its ability to protect civilians, with patrols reduced by up to 70 percent in some areas and dozens of human rights monitoring missions cancelled. Despite these constraints, he said UNMISS continued to play a critical deterrent role, citing the mission's presence in Akobo, Jonglei, as helping prevent possible aerial bombardments amid escalating fighting. Lacroix urged South Sudan's leaders to step back from renewed conflict, return to inclusive dialogue and uphold the peace agreement, warning that elections held without consensus among all parties would lack credibility. “Without the participation of all those who have placed their hopes into this peace process, any election will not be credible and therefore not worthy of our support,” he told the council.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, visited Linamar, a Canadian company and global leader in advanced automotive manufacturing, to highlight the Government of Canada's new Automotive Strategy. The world is changing rapidly, fundamentally reshaping trade relationships and leaving economies, businesses and workers under a cloud of uncertainty. Canada's automotive industry is on the front line of this shift, with more than 90% of Canadian-made vehicles and 60% of Canadian-made auto parts currently exported to the U.S. The government is focused on what we can control—implementing a new industrial strategy. Canada is transforming the economy from one that is reliant on a single trade partner to one that is more resilient to global shocks—a stronger, more sustainable, more independent economy built on the solid foundation of strong Canadian industries and bolstered by diverse international trade partners. In parallel, the government is launching a national electricity strategy to leverage our energy advantage to provide clean, affordable and reliable power to Canadians. These shifts present a unique opportunity to transform Canada's auto industry to be less reliant on the U.S. and gas-powered vehicles. To that end, the government has introduced a new auto strategy that rewards the production of made-in-Canada vehicles and harnesses our world-class capabilities in artificial intelligence and technology expertise to build the cars of the future. This is a strategy that positions Canada to become a global leader in electric vehicle (EV) production. On February 5, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the following new measures: 1.     To accelerate investment in Canada's auto manufacturing sector, the government will:allocate $3 billion from the Strategic Response Fund and up to $100 million from the Regional Tariff Response Initiative to help the auto industry adapt, grow, and diversify to new markets.harness the Productivity Super-Deduction and reduced corporate tax rates for zero emission‑ technology manufacturers to encourage investment in clean technologies and EVs.2.     To rationalise emissions reduction policies to focus on outcomes that matter to Canadians, the government will:introduce stronger greenhouse gas emission standards for model years 2027–32. These standards will put Canada on a path to achieve a goal of 75% EV sales by 2035 and 90% EV sales by 2040—reducing our carbon footprint and securing Canada's global leadership in clean energy.These more stringent emissions standards will enable the Government of Canada to repeal the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard. This approach will allow manufacturers to use a wide array of technologies to meet the standards and respond to consumer preferences in the near term, while driving EV adoption over time.3.     To build up a domestic consumer base and make electric vehicles more affordable and reliable, the government will:launch a five-year EV Affordability Program to lower the cost of EVs for Canadians and create a stronger domestic consumer market.The new $2.3 billion program will offer individuals and businesses purchase or lease incentives of up to $5,000 for battery electric and fuel EVs, and up to $2,500 for plug-in hybrids (PHEV) with a final transaction value up to $50,000 on cars made by countries Canada has free trade agreements with. To support the Canadian automotive industry, this $50,000 cap will not apply to Canadian made‑ EVs and PHEVs.enhance our national EV charging network through investments of $1.5 billion through the Canada Infrastructure Bank's Charging and Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure Initiative, making it easier and more convenient for drivers to charge their EVs across the country.4.     To establish a comprehensive trade regime that strengthens the competitiveness of the auto sector, the government will:strengthen Canada's automotive remission framework to reward companies that produce and invest in Canada.maintain counter-tariffs on auto imports from the United States to ensure a level playing field for Canadian automotive manufacturers in the domestic market.build on its recently strengthened strategic partnership with the Republic of Korea by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen Canada Korea‑ industrial collaboration for future mobility. This builds on other MOUs that Canada has signed with global automakers to promote cooperation.focus on establishing a new strategic partnership with China, a global leader in EV manufacturing, to further diversify trade and catalyse new investment in the automotive sector. The recently announced partnership will look to drive new Chinese joint venture investment in Canada and allow for a fixed volume of Chinese EV imports into the Canadian market.[KP2]5.     To protect Canadian auto workers and businesses from immediate pressures while helping them bridge them to the future, the government will:provide support to employees through a new Work-Sharing grant—preventing layoffs and supporting worker retention so businesses can plan for the future.establish a new workforce alliance of industry, labour and training partners to address bottlenecks and catalyse private investment.provide employment assistance and reskilling supports for up to 66,000 workers across Canada, including for displaced auto workers, through a $570 million investment.The government will leverage our new and existing trade agreements—including the recent EV arrangement with China—to catalyse massive new investment in the sector, diversify Canada's auto export markets and position Canada as a global leader in EVs. Canadian workers and industries are well equipped to seize this opportunity, and we are making generational investments in critical minerals, including those essential for batteries, to secure Canada's place in the world's most important supply chains. The choices made now will shape the Canadian auto industry for decades to come. By protecting the industry and incentivising automakers to build here, we are helping ensure that Canada's workers and businesses can transform to compete and win in this new global environment. These measures build on previously announced initiatives to help transform strategic Canadian industries, including steel and softwood lumber. Together, they form an ambitious industrial strategy that will build a stronger, more resilient, more independent Canadian economy and ensure workers and industries can bridge to that future and seize its opportunities. Canada is a nation of builders and our auto sector has grown and powered communities across the country for more than a century. The skills and dedication of Canadian auto workers is at the heart of this new strategy. Our new government's message is clear: Canada intends not only to keep building vehicles at home, but to shape the future of the industry with Canadian workers at its core.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Speaking with reporters are Nada El-Falou (director of Student Services at Palestinian Students and Scholars at Risk Network), Sean Tucker (professor at the University of Regina's faculty of business administration), Saleha Faruqued (advocacy programs manager at Justice for All Canada), and Sherif Awad (Ottawa lead at the Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council). Representatives from Action Canada, the Guttmacher Institute, and the Future Planning Initiative hold a news conference in Ottawa to raise concerns about Canada's proposed cuts to international assistance and the impact they would have on sexual and reproductive health. Representatives from the Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights (RWCHR), alongside parliamentarians and Iranian civil society leaders, call on the Canadian government to lead “coordinated international action and strengthened enforcement measures” against Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The news conference comes after the European Union designated the IRGC as a terrorist organization over its response to recent protests. Thursday, in Brussels, EU foreign ministers adopted a terrorism listing that places the IRGC under the EU terrorism framework, with officials calling it a decisive step.Lobbying and deadly crackdowns spurred the decision, with EU foreign ministers citing brutal repression and a letter describing an estimated 12,000 Iranian protesters killed, while a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers urged action.The IRGC operates as a state institution overseeing ballistic missile and nuclear programs, and adding it to the EU terror list requires unanimity among 27 members, raising legal questions.Mohammad Fathali, Iranian Ambassador to India, called the EU move a strategic miscalculation ignoring realities and international law, while Iran's Parliament declared involved armed forces terrorist and warned of destructive consequences.Amid wider tensions, officials warned the step could worsen regional instability and hit European interests, as the EU's unprecedented listing exposes divisions among member states and raises legal challenges, with Abbas Araghchi criticising the move.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

This is an especially meaningful moment for me since it's my final opportunity for our customary exchange at the beginning of the year.  These are early days — but 2026 is already shaping up to be a year of constant surprises and chaos. Before I entered public life, I trained as a physicist.  And in times of profound flux, I return to some of the fixed principles that explain how forces act upon the world. One stands out — Newton's Third Law of Motion:  for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.  In physics, this law is a stabilizing principle.  In geopolitics today, it is a destabilizing factor. We are living in a world where actions — especially reckless ones — are provoking dangerous reactions.  And unlike in physics, these reactions are not symmetrical or predictable.  They are being multiplied by geopolitical divisions and magnified by an epidemic of impunity. The law of power is prevailing over the power of law.  International law is trampled.  Cooperation is eroding.  And multilateral institutions are under assault on many fronts.  When perilous actions do not meet the adequate reaction, the system destabilizes. Impunity is driving today's conflicts — fueling escalation, widening mistrust, and kicking the doors open for powerful spoilers to enter from every direction.  Meanwhile, the slashing of humanitarian aid is generating its own chain reactions of despair, displacement and death. At the same time, inequalities are deepening and roiling societies.  Climate change is the most literal and devastating illustration of Newton's principle. Every action that heats the planet triggers a ferocious reaction — storms, wildfires, hurricanes, droughts, rising seas. And then there is technology.  We are witnessing perhaps the greatest transfer of power of our times — not from Governments to people, but from Governments to private technology companies. When technologies that shape behavior, elections, markets and even conflicts operate without guardrails, the reaction is not innovation, it is instability. As I look across the spectrum of global challenges, one truth becomes unmistakably clear:  our systems of global problem-solving face a reckoning. Those systems are out of time.  They still reflect the economic and power structures of 80 years ago.  But the world is moving on. Every day, the share of global economic activity by the traditional group of developed economies recedes — quietly, gradually, but undeniably.  Every day, emerging economies expand in scale, in influence and in confidence.  Every day, the dynamism of South-South trade further outpaces traditional North-North flows. Yet, our structures, our institutions, our assumptions, our habits of cooperation, remain tethered to another time. This must change. Our structures and institutions must reflect the complexity — and the opportunity — of these new times and realities. Global problems will not be solved by one Power calling the shots.  Nor will they be solved by two Powers carving the world into rival spheres of influence. It is important to accelerate, deliberately and with determination, multipolarity — one that is networked, inclusive by design and capable of creating balance through partnerships.  Partnerships in trade, in technology and in international cooperation. But, multipolarity, by itself, does not guarantee stability or peace.  Europe before the First World War was multipolar.  But, in the absence of effective multilateral institutions, the result was confrontation and war. For multipolarity to generate equilibrium, prosperity and peace, we need strong multilateral institutions where legitimacy is rooted in shared responsibility and shared values. And let's be clear about something else as we strongly pursue reform:  Structures may be out of date — but values are not.  Leadership today is not a choice about being principled or pragmatic.  It's the recognition that principles are pragmatic. The Charter of the United Nations was written by people bloodied and bruised by war.  They understood that the values enshrined in our founding documents were not lofty abstractions or idealistic hopes. Those values are the sine qua non of lasting peace and enduring justice.  Values matter — and people are risking everything to make those values real. That is on full display around the world — whether it is a protestor standing up to repression, a journalist standing up for press freedom or an everyday citizen standing up for their neighbour. Despite all the hurdles, the United Nations is acting to give life to our shared values.  And we won't give up. We are pushing for peace — just and sustainable peace rooted in international law.  Peace that addresses root causes.  Peace that endures beyond the signing of an agreement. We are pressing to reform and strengthen the Security Council — the one and only body with the Charter-mandated authority to act on peace and security on behalf of every country.  But there is no lasting peace without development. We are acting to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals and insisting on reform of the global financial architecture. That includes ending the crushing cycle of debt, tripling the lending capacity of multilateral development banks and ensuring developing countries' just participation and real influence in global financial institutions. On climate, we recognize the overshoot of global temperatures above the 1.5-degree threshold and that it now requires an overshoot of ambition — starting with deep emissions cuts this decade and a just, orderly and equitable transition from fossil fuels to renewables. We are demanding far greater support for countries already confronting climate catastrophe, expanded early warning systems, opportunities for nations rich in critical minerals to climb global value chains. And on technology, we are working urgently to help craft a framework for governance — through a global dialogue here at the United Nations, the new International Scientific Panel on AI and enhanced capacity support for developing countries. I will soon submit to the General Assembly a list of 40 names of proposed Panel members.  I am also calling for the creation of a Global Fund on AI Capacity Development for developing countries — with a target of $3 billion. As we begin this year, we are determined to choose actions that generate concrete and positive reactions — as called for in the Pact for the Future.  Reactions of peace, of justice, of responsibility and of progress in our troubled times.  Thank you. And I am at your disposal.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Priorities for Canadian ParliamentBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the UN Secretary-General urged Member States to take immediate steps to implement the reforms they committed to in the Pact for the Future. Speaking at the commemoration of ECOSOC at 80 named “a turning point for multilateralism” today , Guterres said, “let us renew our commitment to safeguarding rights and speeding up development through multilateral cooperation. ECOSOC is an indispensable platform for global dialogue and action.” ECOSOC President Lok Bahadur Thapa said the Council's legacy at 80 is simple and more urgent. He said, “Multilateralism must deliver. Development must be inclusive. And progress must reach everyone. This is the vision and commitment we set forth in the Charter - one that should continue to guide our collective action.” For her part, President General Assembly Annalena Baerbock reiterated, “Peace, development and human dignity and human rights are inseparable,” adding that delivering on these social and economic goals is therefore “not only a moral imperative for those they are designed to serve. It is also a matter of enlightened self-interest.” “It is an investment in stability, resilient and security in a world that is too often defined by crisis,” she added. Established in 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations, ECOSOC held its first meeting on 23 January 1946. Its mandate – to coordinate the economic, social, and cultural activities of the United Nations and promote international cooperation and development – has placed it at the heart of advancing the principles of the UN Charter. Multilateralism, inclusivity, and global solidarity have been central to ECOSOC's mission from the outset. Marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the UN Secretary-General urged Member States to take immediate steps to implement the reforms they committed to in the Pact for the Future. Speaking at the commemoration of ECOSOC at 80 named “a turning point for multilateralism” today , Guterres said, “let us renew our commitment to safeguarding rights and speeding up development through multilateral cooperation. ECOSOC is an indispensable platform for global dialogue and action.” ECOSOC President Lok Bahadur Thapa said the Council's legacy at 80 is simple and more urgent. He said, “Multilateralism must deliver. Development must be inclusive. And progress must reach everyone. This is the vision and commitment we set forth in the Charter - one that should continue to guide our collective action.” For her part, President General Assembly Annalena Baerbock reiterated, “Peace, development and human dignity and human rights are inseparable,” adding that delivering on these social and economic goals is therefore “not only a moral imperative for those they are designed to serve. It is also a matter of enlightened self-interest.” “It is an investment in stability, resilient and security in a world that is too often defined by crisis,” she added. Established in 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations, ECOSOC held its first meeting on 23 January 1946. Its mandate – to coordinate the economic, social, and cultural activities of the United Nations and promote international cooperation and development – has placed it at the heart of advancing the principles of the UN Charter. Multilateralism, inclusivity, and global solidarity have been central to ECOSOC's mission from the outset. Briefing the Security Council today on the situation in Syria, Assistant Secretary-General for Middle East Khaled Khiari said, “It is vital that ISIL is not allowed to capitalize on the fluid situation in the northeast.” Khiari also said, “As I speak, the situation on the ground remains very tense, with exchanges of fire and clashes between Government forces and the SDF in parts of Hasekeh governorate and also on the outskirts of Ayn al Arab, also known as Kobane - an SDF-controlled enclave where access is challenging, given ongoing clashes.” He appealed for both sides to “immediately adhere to a ceasefire in line with the 18 January agreement and engage in fleshing out and implementing the details of this latest understanding of 20 January swiftly and in a spirit of compromise, in order to ensure a peaceful integration of north-east Syria in support of Syria's broader transition.” He highlighted, “It is important also to note the recent Decree no. 13 announced by President al-Sharaa concerning the linguistic, cultural, and citizenship rights of Syrian Kurds within the Syrian state. This is a crucial issue for the future, and the decree is an encouraging initiative on which to build further through a genuinely inclusive process.” He stressed, “We share concerns about the presence of foreign terrorist fighters in Syria. During the fighting in northeast Syria, control of some of the detention centers for ISIL fighters switched from the SDF to Government forces, as did al-Hol camp in Hasakeh. There are indications that some detainees escaped.” He added, “Separately, the US announced on 21 January its mission to transfer ISIL detainees from Syria to Iraq, with 150 ISIL members held in Hasakeh already transported to a secure facility in Iraq. ” He also noted, “Israeli incursions in southern Syria continue to undermine Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We welcome this Council's extension of UNDOF's mandate for another six months.” Edem Wosornu, Director of the Crisis Response Division of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said, “In spite of these challenges, Syrians across the country continue to work to build a brighter future. More than 3 million refugees and internally displaced people have returned to their homes since December of 2024. And we have started to see some encouraging, if still limited, improvements in humanitarian indicators. Food security has improved slightly, but only one in five families are consistently meeting their nutritional needs.” Ibrahim Olabi, Syrian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, said, “We are fully aware of the suffering endured by our Syrian Kurdish compatriots for decades due to marginalization and denial of rights. We are pleased today to see them as part of the new Syrian State institutions, like all other Syrian communities.” He reported, “The Ministry of Interior successfully apprehended the majority of escaped members and continues its efforts to follow to pursue the remaining ones, stressing that extended State sovereignty and the rule of law is the only permanent guarantee of security, stability, and effective counterterrorism. In this regard, the Syrian Government welcomes the American operation to transfer ISIS detainees out of Syrian territories and affirms its readiness to provide the necessary logistical and security support to ensure its success.” Lukman Al-Faily, Iraqi Permanent Representative to the United Nations, stated that his government reaffirms “its reception of foreign terrorists whose states refused to repatriate them is a measure aimed at protecting regional and international security from an imminent threat. Nevertheless, we stress that this issue should not be left to become a long-term strategic burden on Iraq alone. The insistence of some States on considering their terrorist nationals a threat to their national security and refusing to repatriate them is unacceptable.”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Revolution Now! w Peter Joseph Ep. 58 Integral & the Mirage of “Marxism.” Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

At Davos, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen questioned `Trump's trustworthiness` over planned tariffs on eight European nations related to Greenland, calling it `a mistake especially between long-standing allies.`President Donald Trump framed the tariffs as leverage tied to acquiring Greenland, saying they would remain `until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland` and argued the U.S. needs Greenland for security against China and Russia.Using doctored visuals, Donald Trump, U.S. President, posted a fabricated image of planting the U.S. flag on Greenland and published text messages from Mark Rutte and Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday.EU leaders will convene an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday to consider countermeasures including counter tariffs and the anti-coercion instrument, while European markets fell after Trump's posts.Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers in both parties criticized the tariff threats as protesters marched with flags in Nuuk on Jan. 17 and Danish soldiers disembarked on Jan. 18.On Jan. 21, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney is wrapping up a nine-day trip in Switzerland for the World Economic Forum, meeting investors and attending a leaders' lunch before returning to Ottawa this evening.He started the trip in Beijing, China, where Carney clinched a deal for China to lower tariffs and open market access, then went to Qatar seeking investments and promising expanded direct flights.Carney told forum attendees that a technical problem with Donald Trump, U.S. President's aircraft delayed his arrival, causing them to miss each other in Davos.The tour yielded concrete economic returns, including over $7 billion opportunity in agricultural goods with first shipments of beef and canola, while Conservatives and Liberals criticized deals with countries and Davos outreach.The forum unfolded amid tensions over U.S. tariff policy, and the World Economic Forum saw leaders like Carney and Trump essentially passing ships in the night.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

The global landscape is rapidly changing, leaving economies, businesses, and workers in a state of uncertainty. In response, Canada is focused on what we can control: securing new trade and investment partnerships so we are not reliant on a single country, but more resilient to global shocks. We are positioning Canada as a strong, reliable partner to secure new capital, develop new export markets, and create new opportunities for Canadian workers and businesses. To advance that mission, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, travelled to Doha, Qatar – the first-ever visit by a sitting Canadian Prime Minister to the state. The Prime Minister met with the Amir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to discuss increasing trade, commerce, investment, and security cooperation. Upon concluding the visit, the leaders announced a commitment from Qatar to make significant strategic investments in Canadian nation-building projects. These investments will get major projects built faster, supercharge our clean energy, health, AI, and defence industries, and create thousands of high-paying careers and sustained prosperity for Canadian workers.  Building on this momentum, the Prime Minister and the Amir issued a joint statement committing to accelerated two-way investment and collaboration across AI, quantum computing, aerospace, defence technologies, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and agri-food.  After years of stalled negotiations, the leaders agreed to conclude negotiations on a new Canada-Qatar Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA) by this summer. This will enable Canadian businesses to more easily expand their operations in, and attract investment from, Qatar – a country with an economy worth nearly $290 billion. Building on this progress, Canada and Qatar agreed to immediately deepen work together on:Bilateral trade and investment through the establishment of a Joint Canada-Qatar Commission on Economic, Commercial, and Technical Cooperation.Information technology, expanding investment opportunities in areas such as AI and information and computer technology.Defence and security, launching negotiations on a framework to facilitate the exchange of expertise on military, security, and defence matters.A new double-taxation agreement to make it easier for Canadians to work and invest in Qatar and vice versa, with negotiations starting soon.To further build this partnership, Prime Minister Carney announced that Canada will: Expand air services between the two countries under the Canada-Qatar Air Transport Agreement.Establish an office for Canada's Defence Attaché in Doha to increase the frequency and depth of bilateral engagements that increase exports from Canada's defence sector.Exchange security-related best practices and lessons learned in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 26, as Canada, Mexico, and the United States prepare to co-host this global sporting event.As Qatar marks the beginning of its 2026 Year of Culture, Prime Minister Carney emphasised the important and growing people-to-people and cultural ties between the two countries. He extended an invitation to His Highness the Amir as well as Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, to visit Canada in the coming year. While in Doha, the Prime Minister met with the Minister of Public Health of Qatar to reinforce shared priorities in health and life science. He underscored the potential for Canadian companies to grow their footprint in Qatar's healthcare ecosystem, including in biotechnology and groundbreaking AI-driven health technologies. He also met with Qatari business leaders and heads of the Qatari Investment Authority to explore more opportunities to collaborate, further positioning Canada as a premier destination for global capital and investment. Canada and Qatar are both economies with preeminent resources, with common goals to diversify trade and investment opportunities, with complementary strengths in technology, security, and international leadership. As Canada works to build major new energy projects, scale up our defence capabilities, and build on our leadership in AI and innovative technologies, strengthening our partnership with Qatar will accelerate these missions.  January 20 2026 Annalena Baerbock said her priorities for the remainder of the session focus on institutional defense and reform. She said, “I invited Member States to symbolically recommit to our shared principles and values by signing the 80th Anniversary Charter poster ahead of Charter Day.” She added Member States echoed that call. Baerbock said changes in global politics require new approaches. She said, “The political and diplomatic ecosystem has undergone drastic changes, and we can't expect the old ways of working to suffice.” Baerbock said Member States are engaging with reform efforts, “The UN80 initiative, while not coming at the most desirable time or in the best condition, is overdue.” Baerbock said the selection of the next Secretary-General is another priority this year, with interactive dialogues with candidates are scheduled for April. She said the process will include Member States and civil society. PGA said, “Our choice of who will lead this organization is a chance to send a clear message in this turbulent time about who we are and what the United Nation stands for.”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Assistant Secretary-General Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee called on Iranian authorities “to halt any execution linked to protest related cases,” and expressed “alarm” at public statements suggesting military strikes on Iran. Pobee called on Iran “to respect due process and fair trial rights for all detainees” and for all deaths to be “promptly, independently and transparently investigated.” On military intervention, she said, “this external dimension adds volatility to an already combustible situation. All efforts must be undertaken to prevent any further deterioration,” adding that Secretary-General António Guterres “remains convinced that all concerns regarding Iran, including those related to the nuclear issue and ongoing protests, are best addressed through diplomacy and dialog.” United States Ambassador Michael Waltz said, “the people of Iran are demanding their freedom like never before in the Islamic Republic's brutal history” and quoted US President Donald J. Trump saying, “the United States of America stands by the brave people of Iran. Period.” Waltz denied allegations “put forward by the regime that these inspired protests are somehow a foreign plot to give a precursor to military action.” He said, “everyone in the world needs to know that the regime is weaker than ever before and therefore is putting forward this lie because of the power of the Iranian people in the streets. They are afraid. They're afraid of their own people.” Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia for his part said, “the whole world has been watching as the United States continues to escalate tensions and fuel hysteria around Iran, declaring that help is already on the way. What's more, in its official statements, Washington has not even tried to cover up the genuine reasons for its alleged concern over the country's internal political situation as it threatens new strikes against Iran.” Today's meeting, Nebenzia said, “is nothing more than yet another attempt to justify blatant aggression and interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state.” Finally Iranian Ambassador Gholamhossein Darzi told the Council that the United States “is attempting to portray itself as a friend of the Iranian people, while simultaneously laying the groundwork for political destabilization and military intervention under a so-called humanitarian narrative.” Darzi said, “Iran seeks neither escalation nor confrontation. However, any act of aggression, direct or indirect, will be met with a decisive, proportionate and lawful response under article 51 of the charter. This is not a threat. It is a statement of legal reality. Responsibility for all consequences will rest solely with those who initiate such unlawful acts.” He denied allegations that the government of the Iran has killed peaceful protesters, which he said, “is quite a distortion of the facts on the ground.” Darzi said, “what the Iranian security forces did confront firmly and responsibly were armed ISIS style terrorist cells and violent separatist groups funded and armed by a few foreign entities, including the Israeli regime. These groups deliberately targeted civilians and law enforcement officers in an attempt to ignite civil war and create the conditions for foreign intervention.” Prime Minister Mark Carney holds a news conference in Beijing, China, following his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Carney announces an agreement with Beijing that would see Chinese tariffs on Canadian canola reduced from 84 to 15 per cent by March 1 in exchange for allowing close to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles into Canada each year at a 6.1 per cent levy rate. The prime minister faces questions from reporters on what the federal government's warming of relations with China may mean for its relationship for the Trump administration in the United States. He is also asked about the decision of two Liberal MPs to cut short their sponsored trip to Taiwan ahead the Canadian delegation's official visit to Beijing. ogether, these results will help unlock nearly $3 billion in export orders for Canadian workers and businesses as they realise the full potential of the massive Chinese market of 1.4 billion people. Finally, to build on this momentum, Canada has set an ambitious goal to increase exports to China by 50% by 2030. To achieve this outcome, Prime Minister Carney and President Xi discussed increasing two-way investment in clean energy and technology, agri-food, wood products, and other sectors. Canada and China are both strong advocates of multilateralism. As a key pillar of this partnership, we will deepen our engagement on improved global governance. We will collaborate closely in key areas of shared interest, including climate competitiveness and financial and macroeconomic stability. Canada looks forward to contributing to China's 2026 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Presidency and appreciates China's support for Canada's bid to host the 2029 Summit. Canada and China will also pursue pragmatic and constructive engagement in public safety and security. Our law enforcement agencies will increase cooperation to better combat narcotics trafficking, transnational and cybercrime, synthetic drugs and money laundering – and create safer communities for people in both of our countries. They will also explore further opportunities for cultural exchanges and partnerships, including supporting museums, digital content creators, visual artists – to increase travel exchanges and cultural ties. Prime Minister Carney welcomed the agreement between Destination Canada and China Media Group to facilitate further outbound tourism to Canada, especially as we prepare to co-host the FIFA World Cup 26™. The Prime Minister welcomed President Xi's commitment to introducing visa-free access for Canadians travelling to China. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Since joining the Alliance in 2009, Croatia has been a valued member of NATO. It contributes significantly to our collective security – not only on our eastern flank and in the Western Balkans, but across the entire Alliance. Just before the holidays, I met Croatian troops in Poland, as part of NATO's Forward Land Forces in Bemowo Piskie. It was inspiring to meet so many servicemen and women spending Christmas away from their families – standing watch, keeping us all safe. Croatia also contributes personnel to our Forward Land Forces in Bulgaria and Hungary. And I welcome your efforts to modernise the capabilities of the Croatian Armed Forces, and the way Croatia's defence industry indeed is stepping up – particularly in driving innovation in the field of uncrewed systems. I am looking forward to the meeting, and you already announced it, this afternoon, with representatives from the defence industry. And I was really impressed this morning to see how you have revamped Croatia's Air Force in just a couple of years. You are already spending more than 2% of GDP on defence, and are working to reach the 5% benchmark by 2035, as all Allies agreed at the Summit in The Hague. I also welcome that, as of the 1st of January this year, the Croatian Air Force officially assumed full responsibility for protecting Croatian airspace. Croatia is also making good on the commitment Allies made to sustain our unwavering support for Ukraine. Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Croatia has been a strong and reliable supporter of Ukraine. In addition to your recent 15 million euro contribution to indeed, you already mentioned it, the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List – PURL – Croatia has provided now over 300 million euros in military aid since 2022. You have supplied helicopters, transport aircraft, artillery systems, ammunition, protective equipment, and much more. Russia's brutal war of aggression continues. And we saw just last week, the use of the Oreshnik missile on Lviv and continued attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure. Russia is trying to deter us from supporting Ukraine, but we will not be deterred. As Ukraine faces immense pressure during the harsh winter, your support, and support of all NATO Allies, is more important than ever. Ukraine's security is our security. And under your leadership, Prime Minister Plenković, Croatia has truly been a vital partner to our Ukrainian friends. Croatia also plays an important role in sustaining stability in the Western Balkans. You are a longstanding contributor to KFOR, with more than 150 troops on the ground in Kosovo. The Western Balkans remain high on NATO's agenda, and our commitment to the region's stability is steadfast. With your support, we will not allow a security vacuum to emerge, and NATO will continue to strengthen political dialogue and practical cooperation across the region. Prime Minister Plenković, dear Andrej, Thank you for your warm hospitality, and again, for Croatia's steadfast support to our Alliance, and everything we collectively stand for. Thank you. https://bit.ly/NATOhomepage SECURITY COUNCIL  I want to flag that our esteemed colleagues in the Security Council Branch released online the 2025 Highlights of Security Council Practice.  The Highlights Paper features insights into the work of the Security Council in 2025, particularly regarding meetings and other activities (including missions to the field) the agenda items and topics dealt with, decision-making and the work of its subsidiary bodies.  It's a fantastic trove of date for all of you Security Council afficionados!  SECURITY COUNCIL/UKRAINE   This afternoon, at 3:00 p.m., the Security Council will hold a briefing on Maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine, and our Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo will brief Council members. She is expected to underscore that the new year has brought no peace or even respite to Ukraine, but renewed fighting and devastation. Ms. DiCarlo is expected to note the recent use of the so-called Oreshnik missile, the second time the potentially devastating weapon has been fired at Ukraine since 2024.   Ramesh Rajasingham, OCHA's Director of the Coordination Division, will also brief and is expected to warn Council members about the impacts of the attacks on civilians, especially as the strikes impact energy facilities, cutting off power and heating for people enduring freezing temperatures.  UKRAINE  From Ukraine, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that over the weekend and the early hours of today, several civilians were killed and injured in the capital Kyiv and in the regions of Chernihiv, Donetsk, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Kherson, Kyiv, Odesa and Zaporizhzhia. This is according to authorities. Two health workers were reportedly injured in the Chernihiv region when their ambulance came under attack while on a call in a border community. As the weather conditions deteriorate, hundreds of thousands of households were left without electricity and heating across the country leaving entire communities without electricity and heating, with overnight temperatures down to nearly –20°C.  In Kyiv, repairs continue to restore critical electricity and heating services.        The water supply has been fully restored, while 1,000 multi-story apartment blocks have been without heating since January 9th, and parts of the city have electricity only for several hours per day, according to the city's mayor.  Complementing the work of utility companies and national rescuers, aid workers provided hot meals, water and psychological aid and deployed mobile warming centres where impacted people can warm up, charge their devices and receive essential support.   Turning to front-line areas, on 9 January, an inter-agency convoy delivered medicine, hygiene, shelter materials and solar lamps to the Sviatohirsk community, one of the hardest hit areas in the Donetsk region, where humanitarian access remains limited due to security concerns.                  Tomorrow, we, along with our humanitarian partners, will launch a prioritized Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for 2026, calling for continued solidarity with the most vulnerable war-affected people in Ukraine.   Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

To mark International Human Rights Day, join us for a discussion about human rights and democracy in Africa on these traditional, ancestral, and unceded national homelands of the Coast Salish peoples – specifically the sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) nations. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Ben Shewry's Address to the National Press Club of Australia Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Michelle Manook and Hugh Mark Addresses to the National Press Club of Australia Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

The world is changing rapidly. The United States, the world's largest economy, is fundamentally reshaping all its trade relationships, causing major disruption and upheaval for Canadians. It is time to transform our economy from one that is reliant on a single trade partner to one that is stronger, more independent, and resilient to global shocks. To these ends, Canada and Alberta share the same ambitions: diversify our export markets, make Canada an energy superpower, and build a stronger, more sustainable, more competitive economy.  Today, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to drive their shared missions. This framework for an agreement will strengthen federal-provincial collaboration in the energy sector to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, unlock the full potential of Alberta's energy resources, and create hundreds of thousands of new high-paying careers for Canadians. The MOU is built on practical solutions: stronger, more effective industrial carbon pricing, major private sector investments in clean technologies, and expanded, responsible energy development for the workers and communities who rely on it.  Under this partnership, Canada and Alberta will collaborate on multiple projects to build Canada's economy and meet growing consumer and industrial energy demands. It will advance the construction of Pathways Plus – the world's largest carbon capture, utilisation, and storage project. The project will strengthen Canada's energy sector, reduce emissions, and deliver substantial economic benefits, including more than $16 billion in GDP and more than 40,000 jobs annually.  Upon receipt of a proposal from the Government of Alberta, the Government of Canada will provide a clear and efficient approval process under the Building Canada Act for the construction of a new pipeline – to be financed and constructed by the private sector, with Indigenous Peoples' ownership and benefits. It would transport at least one million low-emissions barrels per day to Asian markets as a priority. As a prerequisite to this project, Pathways Plus means Alberta would export some of the lowest carbon-intensity oil produced in the world. The MOU also advances multiple ambitious clean energy projects and measures that will improve affordability, attract foreign and private investment, and build a more sustainable economy. This includes a strong industrial carbon pricing agreement for the province and an agreement to lower methane emissions by 75% over the next decade. It will also drive initiatives that will enable Alberta to build and operate competitive nuclear power generation, reinforce Alberta's electricity grid to power sovereign AI data centres, and build large transmission interties with British Columbia and Saskatchewan to better supply low-carbon, low-cost power across the three provinces. This MOU outlines what Canada and Alberta can build – and how they can build. These projects will only be built in consultation and partnership with Indigenous rights-holders and British Columbia. They will create unprecedented opportunities for Indigenous co-ownership, partnership, and economic benefits.  Facing profound global uncertainty, Canada and Alberta are focused on what we can control: building a stronger, more sustainable, more competitive economy together. Through this MOU, the partners will work within their respective jurisdictions to reach carbon neutrality, unlock the full potential of Western Canada's resources, and position Canada as a superpower in both clean and conventional energy.  Quotes “In the face of global trade shifts and profound uncertainty, Canada and Alberta are striking a new partnership to build a stronger, more sustainable, and more independent Albertan and Canadian economy. We will make Canada an energy superpower, drive down our emissions and diversify our export markets. We want to build big things, and we're building bigger and faster together.” The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada “Canada is acting decisively to establish ourselves as a global energy superpower in the face of a changing world. Together, Canada and Alberta will not only export critical energy to our customers, we will also support our allies, create hundreds of thousands of jobs here at home, and show that our energy sector can lead on a global stage.”  The Hon. Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Canada's prosperity depends on infrastructure that moves people and goods efficiently, reliably and securely. That's why the Government of Canada is investing in trade and transportation that unlock new export opportunities and build a more resilient, diversified economy for all Canadians. Today, the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Northwest Territories, on behalf of Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, announced the $1 billion Arctic Infrastructure Fund to support dual-use—civilian/community and defence—transportation projects that reinforce Canada's sovereignty, enable regional economic development, and connect Northern and Indigenous communities. This fund is part of $6 billion being invested over seven years through Budget 2025 to build the dual-use infrastructure Canada needs to unlock access to new global markets and double non-U.S. exports over a decade, generating $300 billion more in trade. These funds will be delivered by Transport Canada in partnership with the Canada Infrastructure Bank, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and National Defence.  Investments made through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund will create skilled, well-paid jobs, grow regional economies, and help businesses reach new markets. By enhancing critical transportation hubs, such as airports and ports, these investments will help improve affordability for Northern and remote communities and increase access to healthcare and services in the south. These investments represent strategic commitments to Canada's long-term economic resilience and sovereignty, helping build prosperity, independence, and opportunity for Northerners.  Quotes "Canada is building the trade and transportation corridors of tomorrow. These infrastructure investments will create skilled, well-paid jobs, strengthen regional economies, and help Canadian businesses get their goods to new markets. They're smart, strategic commitments to Canada's long-term economic resilience and sovereignty." The Honourable Steven MacKinnon and Leader of the Government in the House of CommonsMinister of Transport "The new $1-billion Arctic Infrastructure Fund represents a generational investment in the North and will create real, lasting benefits. By supporting critical infrastructure in our communities, we are building prosperity, independence, and opportunity for Northerners." The Honourable Rebecca AltyMinister of Crown-Indigenous RelationsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

“Ukrainian civilians have continued to bear the brunt of the Russian Federation's escalating aerial campaign,” said Kayoto Gotoh, Europe Director with the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA). She briefed the Council against the backdrop of sustained missile and drone strikes, including a barrage on Wednesday night that killed at least 25 people. Despite the intensifying violence, Ms. Gotoh noted that the UN has supported more than six million people with electricity, heating, water and sanitation services. She also highlighted last month's breakthrough by the UN International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which secured agreement from both sides to reconnect the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant to the grid.On Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, Russian forces struck Kharkiv's main hospital with glide bombs and drones, wounding seven and forcing evacuation of 50 patients as rescue workers fought a fire.Since February 2022, Russia's long-range strike campaign has targeted Ukraine's energy facilities to disable power supply and deprive civilians of heat and water, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.Facing persistent strikes, Volodymyr Zelenskyy appealed to the U.S., Europe and the G7 for air defence systems, noting Ukraine's size complicates full air protection.Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian President, is due to meet U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on Friday to seek more military aid, with talks expected on sophisticated long-range weapons and Tomahawk cruise missiles.Long-Range missiles and drones have strategic effects that may influence negotiations and bilateral tensions, as Zelenskyy said they cause gas shortages in Russia and could deepen U.S.-Russia diplomatic tensions.Yesterday, Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa, for the G20 summit overshadowed by a U.S. boycott; this is his first visit to sub-Saharan Africa.Canada's Africa strategy, released under the Trudeau government, aims to shift from aid to trade, but Ottawa allocated no new funds while earmarking $2.3 billion for the Indo-Pacific strategy, and analysts say the plan lacks clear implementation and budget.G20 leaders will meet Saturday and Sunday and Carney will hold one-on-one talks with counterparts between sessions, pressing Canada's five summit priorities and joining economic talks on EU engagement with the CPTPP.Carney arrived in Johannesburg just after Ottawa cut back support for the Global Fund amid the largest G20 no-shows, including Russia, China, Mexico and Argentina, and a U.S. boycott.Observers warn Canada risks falling behind peers like China in advancing interests in Africa, while Global Affairs Canada faces a significant knowledge gap across the continent's 54 countries; Ramaphosa, South African President and G20 chair, aligns summit priorities with Ottawa's themes this year.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

On Nov 19, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israeli troops in the buffer zone in southern Syria, accompanied by Defence Minister Israel Katz and senior military chiefs, the prime minister's office said.After the December 8, 2024 advance, the IDF seized buffer-zone positions, expanding the security zone, and U.S.-brokered security talks have stalled as Israel refuses to withdraw from posts seized after December 2024.Video from the Prime Minister's Office showed Benjamin Netanyahu stepping from a helicopter wearing a flak jacket, visiting an IDF observation post where he observed the sector, held a security discussion and met regular and reserve soldiers on Wednesday.Syria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates condemned the visit as a sovereignty violation and a new attempt to `impose a fait accompli`, while Stephane Dujarric and Russia's ambassador also condemned the trip.With Syria demanding a return to the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, stalled security pact talks between Israel and Syria heighten risks as Najat Rochdi warned Israeli actions endanger civilians and inflame tensions.On Thursday, President Donald J. Trump backed a draft peace plan obtained by The Associated Press that was shared in full with Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Kyiv as U.S. envoys pushed for a quick signature.After about a month of talks, the 28-point proposal was drafted by Steve Witkoff, Trump negotiator, and Kirill Dmitriev, Kremlin adviser, without meaningful European or Ukrainian involvement.The draft's 28 points call for recognizing Crimea and parts of Donbas as Russian-held, capping Ukrainian Armed Forces at 600,000 personnel, barring NATO expansion, and creating a US‑Russian investment vehicle with $100 billion in frozen Russian assets.Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, has ruled out ceding territory while Ukrainian officials push back and European diplomats insist on their consent as U.S. officials pressed Kyiv for signature before Thanksgiving.The draft could reshape European security without clear U.S. or European enforcement, as analysts say the Peace Council headed by President Donald J. Trump mirrors Kremlin demands and raises enforcement questions.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

 NPCAU; Matt Tayler & Kate Fitz; James EldeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

NPCAU; Hon. Murray Watt; Judge Navi Pillay; Joe LongoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

“In this fragile environment, withdrawal of resources and capacity is imprudent at best, catastrophic at worst,” UN Women chief Sima Sami Bahous told the Security Council, stressing that South Sudan's gender-based violence crisis - threatening 2.7 million people -makes continued peacekeeping support essential. Bahous said UN Mission in South Sudan documented 260 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 2024, including “rape, gang rape, sexual slavery, forced abortion and forced marriage, with the highest number recorded in Western Equatoria State.” She described a recent incident in Warrap State in which armed youth surrounded a girls' boarding school seeking revenge for a cattle raid. “100 schoolgirls were trapped inside. They feared abduction or worse,” she said. “Fortunately, UN peacekeepers intervened. They de-escalated the situation. They freed the girls.” “For those 100 girls, those peacekeepers could not have been more essential, nor their courage and skill more life changing,” she added, cautioning that any reduction of mandates or resources would be “imprudent at best, catastrophic at worst.” Secretary-General António Guterres said, “The world must not turn its back on Africa, home to nearly one-fifth of humanity. The stakes are too high. And the potential is too great.” The Secretary-General and Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the African Union Commission Chairperson, spoke to reporters following the annual African Union United Nations Conference. Guterres reiterated that the cooperation between the two organizations has never been stronger — or more necessary. The UN chief highlighted that Africa's history is as old as humanity. Its resources are vast – and have driven the growth of many economies. However, its progress is held back by an outdated and unfair global financial system. Guterres said, “The time has come to reform this financial architecture – so it reflects the world of today and better serves the needs of developing countries, particularly in Africa.” The Secretary-General reiterated, “It must become more inclusive, representative, equitable and effective,” explaining that it means “giving developing countries more meaningful participation in global financial institutions. Tripling the lending capacity of multilateral development banks. And easing debt burdens with new instruments that reduce the cost of capital, lower borrowing costs, extend maturity, align debt service to the ability to pay, and speed up sovereign debt resolution for countries facing debt distress.” The UN chief also reaffirmed his full support for the AU's Silencing the Guns initiative. In Sudan, Guterres is “gravely” concern by recent reports of mass atrocities and gross human rights violations in El Fasher and worsening violence in the Kordofans. He said, “The flow of weapons and fighters from external parties must be cut off. The flow of humanitarian aid must be able to quickly reach civilians in need. The hostilities must stop.” The Secretary-General called on the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to engage with his Personal Envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, and “take swift, tangible steps toward a negotiated settlement.” In the eastern reaches of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Guterres noted that decades of conflict have created a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions – with 5.7 million people displaced and 21 million in need of lifesaving aid. Services are collapsing. Cholera on the rise. Hope is on the run. The UN chief said, “Donors must step up – with meaningful support for the vastly underfunded Humanitarian Response Plan. Combatants must stand down – so peace agreements can be implemented without delay. Parties must honour their commitments under the Washington Peace Agreement and Doha Declaration of Principles, and comply fully with Security Council resolution 2773.” “The DRC's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected. And the root causes of the instability and violence in eastern DRC must be addressed,” Guterres added. For his part, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, said that the AU is committed to work with all parties and stakeholders at the United Nations to “achieve a transparent, equitable, unjust reform of the UN Security Council.” “These reforms are indeed of paramount importance and would ultimately consolidate the multilateral system,” Youssouf said. He also highlighted that the two organizations are faced with financial strains. “We need to adapt our actions and programs to the new realities,” the Chairperson said, adding that “it is critical to continue to support peace operations, the fight against terrorism, conflict prevention and resolution, and also focus most of our efforts on humanitarian affairs.” Asked about the decision from the United States to not attend the upcoming G20 in South Africa, the AU chairperson said, “It is indeed unfortunate that the United States boycott this G20 summit.” He continued, “let me reassure you. I think the African continent has decided to take its destiny on its hands. And we are definitely working to increase the self-reliance. We are working to mobilize domestic resources for our development programs and the whole rhetorics and narratives is changing.”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand speaks with reporters at the conclusion of the G7 foreign ministers' meeting in Ontario's Niagara region. Minister Anand outlines discussions that were had between her G7 counterparts on issues such as Ukraine's security and defence, plans to end the Gaza conflict, as well the humanitarian crises in Haiti and Sudan. Anand faces questions from reporters on her bilateral meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and whether she brought up the possibility of a resumption of trade talks between their two countries. In Calgary, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre speaks about the federal budget and reiterates his party's opposition to it. Poilievre faces questions from reporters on the state of his party and his leadership style following the departure of two Conservative MPs last week. He is also asked about whether Prime Minister Mark Carney will deliver on Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's demand for the development of a new pipeline from her province to British Columbia. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

MONCTON, November 8, 2025 In a rapidly changing and uncertain world, Canada's new government is focused on what we can control. We are protecting our communities and our country. We are building our economy with major projects and millions more homes. We are empowering Canadians with lower costs and new opportunities to help you get ahead. We cannot control what other countries do, but we can control what we choose to build, and we are building Canada Strong. Culture is a powerful driver of innovation and inclusion, strengthening both our economy and our identity. In the face of global challenges, culture brings Canadians together, nurturing national pride and preserving the vitality of our communities. Today, David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and to the Secretary of State (Nature) and Member of Parliament (Fredericton–Oromocto), announced $277,200 in support for the Réseau atlantique de diffusion des arts de la scène (RADARTS) through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund. This investment will allow the organization to fund the programming of FrancoFête en Acadie for the period from 2026 to 2029. FrancoFête en Acadie, currently underway until November 9, is the flagship event of RADARTS. This annual French-language event, which is holding its 29th edition in 2025, takes place over five days and brings together around 500 Francophone cultural stakeholder. To highlight the investments in culture in Budget 2025, Parliamentary Secretary Myles took part in activities at FrancoFête en Acadie and met with various members of the arts and culture sector in southeast New Brunswick. He visited the Pays de la Sagounine in Bouctouche, the new modern and accessible outdoor amphitheatre for the performing arts at Highland Park in Salisbury, and the Atlantic Ballet of Canada in Moncton. This week, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced Budget 2025 investments in culture totalling $503 million over four years, starting in 2026-27, in sectors such as the arts, multimedia, journalism, and national celebrations. He made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue. Canada's artists, creators and cultural entrepreneurs are at the heart of our creative economy. Budget 2025 proposes new investments to grow Canada's creative industries and ensure our national cultural institutions remain strong, resilient and successful. This includes support for Telefilm Canada, the Canada Media Fund, the National Film Board, and the Canada Council for the Arts. Budget 2025 also proposes funding to help Canadian talent succeed in an increasingly digital and global marketplace, including through the Canada Music Fund.  Culture is experienced locally, in our towns, neighbourhoods, and public spaces. Budget 2025 proposes targeted support to strengthen community identity and participation through experiences and celebrations in every region of Canada. This includes support for local festivals, community anniversaries and community-initiated capital projects through the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program, and for professionally presented arts festivals or performing arts series through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund. Budget 2025 also proposes funding for communities to celebrate Canada Day and National Acadian Day. In addition, Budget 2025 proposes to provide $150 million in funding to support the modernization of CBC/Radio-Canada's mandate and strengthen its mandate and better deliver for Canadians in both French and English. Additionally, Budget 2025 also proposes to provide $116.3 million to renew the Canada Strong Pass for the holiday season, from December 12, 2025, to January 15, 2026, and for summer 2026. This will provide families and young people free or discounted access to national parks, museums, galleries, and rail travel. Together, those investments are key to protecting Canada's cultural sovereignty, strengthening our economy, and building Canada strong. Quotes When we invest in our culture, we invest in ourselves, and in our capacity to tell our own stories. Across the country, our artists, creators and creative industries fuel innovation, create jobs, and strengthen our economy. In a time of uncertainty, we must protect our cultural sovereignty and help Canadian talent thrive at home and around the world. Budget 2025 meets the moment, positioning Canada's creative economy for growth, competitiveness and stability.” —The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages “At a time with a shifting global economy and rapid technological change, the Government of Canada is committed to supporting cultural workers and strengthening our arts and culture sectors. These measures reflect a clear vision of a strong, united and resilient Canada, where our way of life is protected, celebrated and passed on to future generations.” —The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue “Through the new Budget, our government continues to support initiatives that promote the Francophonie across the country and especially here in Atlantic Canada. The funding provided to RADARTS will allow an even greater number of artists and local presenters to work together and offer quality cultural experiences. This is how we're helping build Canada Strong, where the arts play an essential role in the life of our communities.” —David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and to the Secretary of State (Nature) and Member of Parliament (Fredericton–Oromocto) “We welcome the renewal of additional funds for the Canada Arts Presentation Fund and the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program in the recent federal budget. This renewal for the next three years will allow presenters in Atlantic Canada to better plan their events and their upcoming artistic seasons. We are grateful for the Department's commitment to providing support for the entire performing arts sector.” —Jacinthe Comeau, Executive Director, RADARTSBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Andrew Saberton, Deputy Executive Director for Management, on his recent visit to Gaza and the West Bank. “In Gaza I was not fully prepared for what I saw, one can't be,” a UN top official for population said, describing the destruction across the enclave as “the set of a dystopian film.” Speaking to reporters at UN Headquarters in New York, Andrew Saberton, Deputy Executive Director for Management at UNFPA said, “There is no other way to put it, Gaza has been flattened mile upon mile with rubble and dust, with few buildings left intact. This is not collateral damage. And I cannot unsee what I have seen.” He said many women in Gaza “lost everything, their family members, their homes, their colleges and their jobs,” adding that “women cannot even access the most basic personal hygiene supplies when they are menstruating.” The UN official also said, “Across Gaza, as you well know, one in four people is starving. That includes 11,500 pregnant women for whom starvation is particularly catastrophic for both mother and the newborn. Premature and low birth weight babies now make up around 70 per cent of newborns, and one in three pregnancies is regarded as high risk.” Maternal health services have collapsed under the strain of conflict. “Ninety-four per cent of hospitals in Gaza are damaged or destroyed,” Saberton said. “Maternal deaths are on the rise because the drugs that could save mothers are no longer available, and multiple newborns are often crammed into one incubator due to a lack of fuel and equipment.” He noted that UNFPA recently managed to deliver some medical supplies into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing. “We have been distributing medical supplies and equipment, including incubators, delivery beds and fetal-monitoring machines,” he said, “now that we have more freedom of movement.” However, Saberton cautioned that “the trickle of aid being allowed to enter Gaza after the ceasefire is nowhere near enough.” He said UNFPA has “much more assistance on all the crossings ready to enter, including more incubators, more heart monitors, beds and other supplies for safe births, as well as much needed hygiene items.” He urged the full opening of all crossings to ensure “safe and sustained humanitarian access to bring aid to all women and girls in Gaza, from the north to the south.” Saberton also warned of the long-term psychological toll. “There will be this period of elation when you know, ‘the ceasefire, the ceasefire holds,' and then it may come this overwhelming downside when people take a look at their lives and realize they've lost everything,” he said. “That may actually lead to a kind of a bigger issue psychologically that we'll need to address.” Saberton concluded with a call for action: “For the last two years many countries, nations, people have been saying, ‘what can I do? I want to do something.' Now is the time.”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Canada faces a rapidly changing and increasingly uncertain world. The rules-based international order and the trading system that powered Canada's prosperity for decades are being reshaped – hurting companies, displacing workers, causing major disruption and upheaval for Canadians. In the face of global uncertainty, Canada's new government is focused on what we can control. Budget 2025: Canada Strong is our plan to transform our economy from one that is reliant on a single trade partner, to one that is stronger, more self-sufficient, and more resilient to global shocks. Our plan builds on Canada's strengths – world-class industries, skilled and talented workers, diverse trade partnerships, and a strong domestic market where Canadians can be our own best customers. We are creating an economy by Canadians, for Canadians.    We are building Canada Strong. This is a plan to build the major infrastructure, homes, and industries that grow our economy and create lasting prosperity. This is a plan that will protect our communities, our borders, and our way of life. This is a plan to empower Canadians with better careers, strong public services, and a more affordable life. We are building a stronger economy, so that Canadians can build their own future. To do that, Canada's new government is delivering an investment budget. We are spending less on government operations – and investing more in the workers, businesses, and nation-building infrastructure that will grow our economy. Budget 2025 delivers on the government's Comprehensive Expenditure Review to modernise government, improve efficiencies, and deliver better results and services for Canadians. It includes a total of $60 billion in savings and revenues over five years, and makes generational investments in housing, infrastructure, defence, productivity and competitiveness. These are the smart, strategic investments that will enable $1 trillion in total investments over the next five years through smarter public spending and stronger capital investment. Countries across the world are facing global economic challenges – and Canada is no different. Budget 2025 is Canada's new government's plan to address these challenges from a position of strength, determination, and action. It is our plan to take control and build the future we want for ourselves, as a people and a country. It is our plan to build Canada Strong. Quotes “The global uncertainty we are facing demands bold action to secure Canada's future. Budget 2025 is an investment budget. We are making generational investments to meet the moment and ensure our country doesn't just weather this moment but thrives in it. This is our moment to build Canada Strong and our plan is clear – we will build our economy, protect our country, and empower you to get ahead. When we play to our strengths, we can create more for ourselves than can ever be taken away.” The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National RevenueBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Ben Saul and Chris Sidoti address Press Club on Palestine recognition Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Dr Anna Cody's Address to the National Press Club of Australia Kelly - Dj Rea Reaburn (1)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Prime Minister Mark Carney delivers opening remarks at a reception with business leaders on the sidelines of the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. On Oct. 25, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney pitched Canada as a reliable, rules-based partner to Southeast Asia at the ASEAN leaders' summit in Kuala Lumpur, attending as a guest of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.Senior officials say the 10-nation bloc has shifted toward being an increasingly important commercial partner, prompting Canada to aim for doubling exports outside the U.S. in the next decade.Prime Minister Mark Carney will meet an oil and gas company, Malaysia's central bank and visit an aerospace facility during the Kuala Lumpur stop, as Ottawa fast-tracks LNG 2 and other projects via major-projects legislation.About 24 hours after Carney's speech, U.S. President Donald Trump canceled trade talks with Canada, calling the Ontario government anti-tariff ad campaign `crooked` and `possibly AI`.Canada and Association of Southeast Asian Nations are working to finalize a trade agreement expected early 2026 and the next phase of a five-year action plan expiring at the end of this year.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Canada in “investment crisis” business council says in federal budget submissionThe Business Council of Canada CEO Goldy Hyder urged Prime Minister Mark Carney to control spending in a budget submission, warning against increasing debt without a plan to manage it.According to the council's survey, members emphasized the need for fiscal anchors to guide government spending and ensure public finances are responsibly managed.Most respondents supported a debt-to-GDP ratio that is stable or declining and advocated for balanced budgets, highlighting concerns over debt-servicing costs.The council conducted a survey of its members, with nearly unanimous agreement that the government needs fiscal anchors for prudent budget management.Trump cuts off trade talks with Canada over Reagan tariff ad US President Donald Trump announced the end of trade talks with Canada due to an advertisement featuring Ronald Reagan that he claims misrepresents his views on tariffs. Trump stated, "Based on their egregious behavior, all trade negotiations with Canada are hereby terminated."The advertisement, reportedly funded by the Ontario government, cost $75 million and criticized US tariffs on Canadian goods, contributing to heightened trade tensions. This ad misrepresented the intent of Reagan's statements about tariffs, according to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation.Trump's decision marks a sharp reversal from previous discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney about trade negotiations, emphasizing the need for both countries to thrive economically.Carney's office did not respond immediately to Trump's announcement, which could inflame existing trade tensions, as over three-quarters of Canadian exports go to the US.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Trump meets with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - The Hon Tony Burke MP's Address to The National Press Club of Australia Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

U.S. envoys arrived in Israel to shore up the tenuous ceasefire holding in Gaza after a major flareup threatened to derail it.There are concerns about how much aid Israel is allowing into Gaza, which is part of the ceasefire agreement.Palestinians in Gaza are wary that the deal will hold after Sunday's flareup, which saw funerals for dozens killed by Israeli strikes across the strip.From the United Nations On Gaza, we are encouraged that the parties have reaffirmed their commitments to implementing the ceasefire in Gaza and commend the steadfast efforts of the mediators. We remain concerned by all acts of violence in Gaza and the reported attacks and strikes that took place yesterday.  We urge the parties to honor all their commitments, ensure the protection of civilians and avoid any actions that could lead to a renewal of hostilities and undermine humanitarian operations. We reiterate the Secretary-General's call for the release of the remains of the deceased hostages.  From Al Jazeera US President Donald Trump has deployed a number of senior officials to Israel as Washington looks to preserve a fragile Gaza ceasefire deal. His Vice President JD Vance is heading to Tel Aviv, joining Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Adviser Jared Kushner. Sami Al-Arian is a professor of public affairs and Director at the Center for Islam and Global Affairs at Istanbul Zaim University. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Mark Vassella's Address to The National Press Club of Australia Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

OCHA Spokesperson in Gaza Olga Cherevko said that since the ceasefire took effect, the United Nations and partners have moved swiftly to scale up the delivery of humanitarian assistance across Gaza. “It's all hands on deck,” she said. Olga Cherevko, OCHA Spokesperson in Gaza spoke to reporters via video link. She said, “after months of devastation and suffering, the bombs have stopped falling. And with that silence came an opportunity and a responsibility to act.” “We have wasted no time,” the OCHA Spokesperson said, highlighting that the UN's scale up plan for the first 60 days tested and proven to work, “is in full motion.” Cherevko said, “In the past three days, thousands of tons of humanitarian aid and other supplies have entered Gaza, including cooking gas, which entered on Sunday for the first time in over seven months.” “We're offloading and collecting critical supplies and accessing areas which we weren't able to reach for months. With 190,000 metric tons of assistance in our cleared pipeline,” she added. The OCHA Spokesperson also said, “Our medical teams are resupplying hospitals and field clinics that have been running on empty. We're delivering fuel to power by bakeries, desalination plants and hospitals again. We're repairing roads and checking them for explosive risks and helping displaced families prepare for the winter months.” “Every truck, every piece of bread, every box of medicine that crosses into Gaza carries with it a message of hope for a better tomorrow,” Olga stressed. She reiterated that the humanitarian needs “remain immense.” “The ceasefire has ended the fighting, but it hasn't ended the crisis,” the OCHA Spokesperson said, explaining, “displacement, destroyed infrastructure, lawlessness, damaged roads, unexploded ordnance and the collapse of basic services are just some of the challenges.” She said, “Scaling up response is not just about logistics and more trucks. It's about restoring humanity and dignity to a shattered population.” Olga also said that the UN is working around the clock with all parties to ensure predictable, safe and sustained access. “But let me be clear,” she said, “Humanitarian aid alone will not be a substitute for peace. The ceasefire must hold. It must become the basis for a broader political effort that brings the end of cycles of violence and despair.” Asked about the danger of unexploded ordnance, the OCHA Spokesperson said, “We have, of course, our teams on the ground who do assessments, and they assess the various roads, the locations, and they go to make sure that the ordnance is clearly marked and that they're also awareness for the communities to make sure that they know not to touch them and not to be around them and so forth.” Asked reports of delaying the scaling up of humanitarian aid coming into Gaza, Olga said, “We have received this is communication from the Israeli authorities. And of course, we continue to encourage the parties to adhere to the agreements that have been set out in the ceasefire parameters. And we certainly very much hope that, the bodies of the hostages are handed over and that the ceasefire continues to, to be implemented.” Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and India's Minister of External Affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, issued this joint statement: “At the invitation of the Minister for External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Ms. Anita Anand, undertook, an official visit to India from October 12 to 14, 2025. “The meeting in New Delhi is a follow up to the guidance provided by the Prime Ministers of the 2 countries during their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, to take calibrated measures to restore stability in the relationship and to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership grounded in respect for each other's concerns and sensitivities, strong people-to-people ties, and growing economic complementarities. “Pursuant to this guidance, both sides initiated several steps, including the joint announcement of reinstatement of High Commissioners on August 28, 2025, meeting between the National Security Advisers of the 2 countries on advancing Canada-India security cooperation in New Delhi on September 18, 2025, and the agreement to continue senior official-level discussions on security and law enforcement cooperation, pre-Foreign Office Consultations between Secretary (East) and Canada's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs in New Delhi on September 19,2025, and a meeting between the 2 Foreign Ministers on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly high-level week in New York on September 29, 2025.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Palestine Peace Deal An Israeli ceasefire deal with Hamas for the Gaza Strip came into effect at noon on Friday, with the Israeli military saying troops were withdrawing to agreed-upon lines.A senior Hamas official, Khalil al-Hayya, said the deal included releasing around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and opening the border crossing with Egypt.Despite the ceasefire announcement, Palestinians reported heavy shelling in parts of Gaza throughout Friday morning.Carney says renegotiating CUSMA likely won't resolve all trade issues with U.S. Prime Minister Mark Carney, President Donald Trump, and Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc met at the White House on Tuesday to discuss Canada-U.S. trade relations.Canada sought these talks as ongoing U.S. tariffs continue to affect industries such as steel, auto, energy, and lumber despite an existing trade agreement.During the meeting, Trump told reporters tariffs on Canadian goods will continue, while LeBlanc pressed for tariff relief with U.S. officials.Carney indicated that the United States intends to maintain tariffs on specific industries, and cautioned that the forthcoming trade discussions are unlikely to address every outstanding concern.With formal talks on the trade agreement scheduled for next year, Canada is actively pursuing temporary arrangements in the meantime.Trump Signs $6.1B Arctic Icebreaker Deal with Finland The White House will sign a memorandum of understanding with Finland to acquire four Arctic Security Cutters from Finnish shipyards, as confirmed by officials from both countries.This deal, valued at $6.1 billion, allows for the construction of seven additional cutters in the U.S.President Trump emphasized the importance of these icebreakers for national security in the Arctic.Finnish President Alexander Stubb stated that this agreement strengthens both countries' cooperation and is crucial for Finland's economy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

“electric vehicles at this time do not meet the specific needs for patrol vehicles.Temperature is known to impact the life of batteries, both excess of cold and heat, and it can reduce the amount of range you get from the battery.”Article contentInfrastructure challenges and limited EV options for heavy-duty work vehicles further complicate the transitionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Canada Advances Battery Innovation with Made-in-Canada TechnologyHonourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced an investment of over $22 million in support of eight projects to accelerate battery innovation and production capacity across Canada. By powering electric vehicles and making it easier to incorporate renewable energy into our grids, batteries play an important role in the ongoing transition to a prosperous, affordable, low-carbon economy. To stay on track to get to net-zero emissions by 2050, the global cumulative battery demand from 2022 to 2050 is set to increase nearly 150-fold, providing an opportunity for Canada to seize. Today's investments support key priorities in Canadian battery innovation, including:Enhancing battery performance and reducing costs for more reliable, affordable energy storage across key sectors such as transportation, utilities and industry;Strengthening the security and increasing the competitiveness of Canada's battery supply chains while reducing environmental impacts; and,Supporting the development and scale-up of new technologies that grow Canada's economy and promote energy sovereignty.This investment will shape a cleaner, more resilient future for Canadians — one where affordable and reliable clean energy powers our homes, vehicles and industries. The Trump administration is seeking a 10% stake in Lithium Americas as it aims to intervene in industries deemed critical to national security. Lithium Americas has agreed to negotiate a stake of less than 10% while also renegotiating a $2.26 billion loan from the Department of Energy. Stock for Lithium Americas surged nearly 99% in one day following the news, reaching a high of $6.25 per share. The company is developing the Thacker Pass lithium project in Nevada, which is expected to produce 40,000 tons per year of battery-quality lithium carbonate.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Anita Anand, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Canada, addresses the General Debate of the 80th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 23 - 29 September 2025). World leaders will gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, "Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights". The General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly is the opportunity for Heads of State and Government to come together at the UN Headquarters and discuss world issues. Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development. The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote. The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945. Currently made up of 193 Member States, the UN and its work are guided by the purposes and principles contained in its founding Charter. Briefing by Bintou Keita, Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). The Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bintou Keita, said “peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is still mostly a promise,” and “will not last if the underlying drivers of conflict are not addressed.” Presenting the Secretary-General's latest report, Keita told the Security Council in New York that “there are discrepancies between the progress we see on paper and the reality we observe on the ground which continues to be marred with violence.” She stated that the key provisions of Security Council resolution 2773 “remain largely unimplemented,” and despite the Council's requests, the AFC/M23 armed group has “continued to pursue a logic of territorial expansion and consolidation.” This and other issues, Keita said, underscore “the persisting gap between the decisions of this Council and the realities on the ground.” She called upon the Council “to bring about a permanent ceasefire and a durable peace agreement that will establish stability in eastern DRC,” adding that “only then, will commitments be translated into meaningful progress for the people.” Keita stressed that “illegal mining, looting of natural resources and illicit financial flows continue to fuel violence,” and said, “these activities must be stopped.”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Dr Anna Cody's Address to the National Press Club of Australia Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - Paul Schroder's Address to the National Press Club of Australia Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - President Trump with King Charles iii UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer Sining Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

PAR - President Trump with King Charles iii UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer Sining Kelly - Dj Rea ReaburnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.