Policy and Rights

PAR - Hannah Ferguson's Address to the National Press ClubBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Prime Minister Mark Carney speaks with reporters at Rideau Hall in Ottawa following a swearing-in ceremony for members of his cabinet. This revamping of the federal cabinet comes in the wake of the April 28, 2025, general election. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre speaks with reporters on Parliament Hill following the swearing-in for members of Prime Minister Mark Carney's revamped cabinet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announces that effective immediately, her government is freezing its industrial carbon price at $95 per tonne of emissions. She says the move is an important step toward protecting Alberta's economy amid the uncertainty caused by U.S. tariffs. The premier is joined at the news conference in Edmonton by Rebecca Schulz, the minister of environment and protected areas. British Columbia Premier David Eby provides an update on the province's recruitment of U.S. nurses, doctors and allied health professionals. He is joined at the news conference in Victoria by provincial Health Minister Josie Osborne.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Prime Minister Mark Carney holds a news conference at the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C., following a bilateral meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. The prime minister faces questions from reporters on the possibility of renegotiating the CUSMA trade agreement and whether President Trump will drop tariffs against Canada. Carney also comments on the state of the Canada-U.S. relationship following the meeting with Trump. The Euthanasia Prevention Coalition and Delta Hospice Society hold a joint press conference in Ottawa to demand a full review of Canada's medical assistance in dying (MAiD) law. Alex Schadenberg, executive director of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition and Angelina Ireland, executive director of the Delta Hospice Society, deliver remarks and take questions from reporters. Representatives from the Campaign Life Coalition hold a news conference on Parliament Hill ahead of the National March for Life, which takes place this year on May 8. The organization is expected to raise concerns over the proposed policies of the re-elected Liberal government, including Prime Minister Mark Carney's pledge to cover some costs of in-vitro fertilization Rod Taylor, the national leader of the Christian Heritage Party, holds a news conference in Ottawa to offer suggestions to the newly elected Liberal government.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith faces questions from reporters in Edmonton follAlberta Premier Danielle Smith faces questions from reporters in Edmonton following her address yesterday on the future of the province's relationship with the federal government. Premier Smith also stated that she would hold a secession referendum next year if citizens gather the requisite number of signatures on a petition. Mark Carney has told Donald Trump that Canada "is not for sale" as the president raised the prospect of the country becoming the 51st US state while welcoming the prime minister to the White House. Carney won election last month promising to "stand up" to Trump, who has imposed tariffs on some Canadian products and sometimes talks about annexing the country. The former central banker responded with a firm but measured tone after the president proposed a "wonderful marriage" of incorporating Canada into the US. Despite a strained relationship recently between the once-close neighbours, the two men also lavished praise on each other in what was a largely cordial Oval Office meeting. The US president, who accuses Canada of not doing enough to stop the flow of fentanyl south, has levied similar duties on steel and aluminium. Tuesday's meeting was the first time the two had met since Carney won Canada's general election on 28 April, a victory many have credited to concerns in that country about Trump.owing her address yesterday on the future of the province's relationship with the federal government. Premier Smith also stated that she would hold a secession referendum next year if citizens gather the requisite number of signatures on a petition.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Agnès Callamard, the global head of Amnesty International, holds a news conference in Ottawa to discuss the rise of authoritarian practices in the United States and around the world. The organization is also releasing its latest annual report. Also delivering remarks are Amnesty International's France-Isabelle Langlois (executive director, Canada francophone), Ketty Nivyabandi (secretary general, Canada's English-speaking section) and Paul O'Brien (executive director, USA division). Callamard discusses the increasing erosion of the rules-based international order and calls on countries like Canada to do more push back against this trend and position itself as a defender of human rights across the globe. British Columbia Premier David Eby announces the launch of “The Clean Energy Action Plan,” a strategy to harness the province's clean-electricity reserves, drive economic growth and bolster energy security.  He is joined at the news conference in Victoria by Adrian Dix, the minister of energy and climate solutions, Brittny Anderson, the minister of state for local governments and rural communities, and Chris O'Riley, the president and CEO of BC Hydro. Premier Eby also comments on the April 26 attack at a Filipino street festival in Vancouver that killed 11 people. Additionally, he discusses U.S. President Donald Trump's continued threats against Canada's sovereignty and on the ongoing trade war between the two countries.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announces that her government will be challenging the constitutionality of the federal government's net-zero electricity regulations in court.   The premier also faces questions from reporters on her recently proposed legislation that makes it easier for Alberta to separate from Canada. The legislation was tabled on April 29, the day after the federal Liberals won a minority government in the 2025 federal election.   She is joined at the news conference in Edmonton by provincial ministers Mickey Amery (justice), Rebecca Schulz (environment and protected areas) and Nathan Neudorf (affordability and utilities). British Columbia Premier David Eby announces new legislation that aims to speed up building permit approvals to allow the province to deliver key infrastructure projects faster. Priority projects will include schools, hospitals and major transportation infrastructure. He is joined at the news conference in Victoria by Bowinn Ma, the province's infrastructure minister Peacekeeping Chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix today (24 Apr) told reporters in New York that the Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025, taking place in Berlin on 13-14 May, will be “a very important opportunity” for the UN and Member States to determine how to address challenges to ensure peacekeeping remains an “important, viable, credible and effective tool of the United Nations and multilateralism in the future.” Lacroix said another issue to be discussed will be “how we can make peacekeeping more cost effective, because we are aware that we are operating, and we will be operating under increasingly severe financial constraints.” He confirmed that Secretary-General António Guterres “will be participating in the Berlin meeting in two weeks' time.” Joining Lacroix, Germany's State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Defence, Nils Hilmer said, “we are convinced that UN peacekeeping has proven to be one of the most important tools the international community has an international crisis management. However, we still face many challenges with regards to changing conflict dynamics, disinformation campaign, or targeting missions. Hence, it is all the more important to discuss about the future of peacekeeping.” Hilmer said, “we want to provide a forum for Member States to discuss how we can continue making UN peacekeeping strong, effective and fit for the future,” adding that “by participating at the Berlin Ministerial, delegations can underline their political support for UN peacekeeping, contribute to closing critical capability gaps, and reinvigorate UN peacekeeping reform efforts.” The results of the discussions, he said, “will provide important input to the UN Secretary-General's review on the future of all forms of peace operations mandated in the Pact for the Future.” The goal of the Berlin Ministerial, Hilmer explained, will be to “ensure UN peacekeeping remains at a sufficient level of preparedness for both current and potential future missions, and we want to increase overall mission effectiveness while enhancing safety and security of our personnel deployed.” Germany's Director-General for International Order, United Nations, and Disarmament at the Federal Foreign Office, Katharina Stasch, said the Berlin Ministerial's aim, “is really to provide a follow up to the Pact for the Future. Actions must follow words.” Responding to journalists' questions, Lacroix said, “the United States is and has always been a very important part, and I should say, also a very important supporter of peacekeeping operation throughout the years. And we look forward to continuing cooperation with the United States. Now, when it comes to finances, I think that in any case, we are looking at times where financial resources will be limited. I think a very important challenge, to all of us really, is how we can improve the cost efficiency of peacekeeping.” He said, “we operate on mandates, you know, those mandates are given to us by Member States, by the Security Council. We keep telling our Member States, please prioritize those mandates. You know, make sure that, you know, we know what are the key mandated tasks from your point of view that we have to implement. And then please give us an adequate level of resources, and please pay on time and in full.” Leading up to the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and marking the 10-year anniversary of the Leaders' Summit on Peacekeeping, the 2025 Berlin UN Peacekeeping Ministerial is the latest in a series of meetings held at the Head of State, Government, or Ministerial level. The UN Peacekeeping Ministerial will serve as a high-level political forum to discuss the future of peacekeeping and for Member States to express and demonstrate their political support. It will also provide a platform for delegations to announce substantial pledges in support of closing capability gaps and adapting peace operations to better respond to existing challenges and new realities, in line with the pledging guide.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Anthony Albanese addresses the National Press Club ahead of election day in AustraliaBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Mark Carney PMBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Filippo Grand Violence Has Become a Currency of Our AgeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

National Dawn Service  Anzac Day 2025 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Why Public Transit is BetterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication. The disorder also includes limited and repetitive patterns of behavior. The term "spectrum" in autism spectrum disorder refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity.Autism spectrum disorder includes conditions that were previously considered separate — autism, Asperger's syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and an unspecified form of pervasive developmental disorder. Some people still use the term "Asperger's syndrome," which is generally thought to be at the mild end of autism spectrum disorder.Autism spectrum disorder begins in early childhood and eventually causes problems functioning in society — socially, in school and at work, for example. Often children show symptoms of autism within the first year. A small number of children appear to develop normally in the first year, and then go through a period of regression between 18 and 24 months of age when they develop autism symptoms.While there is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, intensive, early treatment can make a big difference in the lives of many children.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Liberal Leader Mark Carney holds an event in Victoria, B.C., where he highlights a series of British Columbia-related election pledges he has made to help the province deal with the impacts of U.S. tariffs. Liberal candidates Michelle Corfield (Nanaimo–Ladysmith), Will Greaves (Victoria), and Blair Herbert (Cowichan–Malahat–Langford) deliver brief introductory remarks. Carney faces questions from reporters on whether he is seeking a majority mandate. He also comments on Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's proposed plan to dismantle illegal encampments, which was announced earlier in the da Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre addresses supporters at a campaign rally in Vaughan, Ontario.  He is joined by Conservative candidates Anna Roberts (King—Vaughan) and Michael Guglielmin (Vaughan—Woodbridge), as well as Anaida Poilievre. At a campaign event in Winnipeg, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh reacts to reports that U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state in his March 28 call with Mark Carney. Singh discusses the need for transparency when it comes to future negotiations between the federal government and the Trump administration. He is joined by Leah Gazan, NDP candidate for Winnipeg Centre, and Melissa Dvorak, president of the Winnipeg Labour Council. Singh faces questions from reporters on whether Trump's comments constitute foreign meddling in the federal election.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

In Ottawa, representatives from the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association propose steps the federal government can take to protect the automotive industry from tariffs while addressing the affordability crisis.  Speaking with reporters are Tim Reuss, Charles Bernard and Huw Williams. At a news conference in Victoria, Green Party co-leader Elizabeth May highlights measures in her party's recently released election platform and compares the Greens' economic proposals with those of other parties.  Canadian voters head to the polls on April 28.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

As the election campaign enters its final week, Liberal Leader Mark Carney releases his party's health-care platform at an event in Charlottetown, P.E.I. The plan focuses on building new hospitals, growing the health work force, modernizing the system, investing in women's health and reproductive rights, as well as increasing support for mental health care and substance abuse treatment.  Carney also comments on the passing of Pope Francis, who died Monday morning at the age of 88.   Delivering introductory remarks are Sean Casey, Liberal candidate for Charlottetown, and Greg Naterer, vice-president, academic and research at the University of Prince Edward Island. Carney faces questions from reporters on the Liberal party's election platform, which promises $130 billion in new spending while running deficits until at least the fiscal year 2028-2029. With one week until election day, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre holds a news conference in Scarborough, Ont., and lays out his party's housing plan. He pledges that a Conservative government would build 2.3 million new homes over the next five years. Poilievre also comments on the passing of Pope Francis, who died this morning at 88 years old.  Greg Brady, the Conservative candidate for Ajax, provides opening remarks.As the election campaign enters its final week, Liberal Leader Mark Carney releases his party's health-care platform at an event in Charlottetown, P.E.I. The plan focuses on building new hospitals, growing the health work force, modernizing the system, investing in women's health and reproductive rights, as well as increasing support for mental health care and substance abuse treatment. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Canadian and Australian Leaders Debates 2025Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) hosts Green Party co-leaders Elizabeth May and Jonathan Pednault for a discussion ahead of the April 28 federal election. This session is the first in a series that will offer First Nations chiefs the opportunity to share priorities and pose questions to federal party leaders.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

On Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Prime Minister Mark Carney comments following a meeting of the Canada-U.S. relations cabinet committee.  Carney says the meeting focused on the impact of U.S. tariffs, the federal response, and on preparations for possible future discussions with the Trump administration.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Liberal Leader Mark Carney unveils his party's plan for crime and public safety. The plan contains a series of measures that includes a continuation of the gun buyback program for assault-style weapons, a pledge to recruit 1,000 additional RCMP officers and train 1,000 new CBSA agents, as well as a commitment to tougher bail rules and sentencing guidelines for violent crime and car theft.   Carney is joined by Liberal candidates Nathalie Provost (Châteauguay–Les Jardins-de-Napierville, Que) and Bill Blair (Scarborough Southwest, Ont.). The Liberal leader faces questions from reporters on the federal response to U.S. President Donald Trump's global trade war. Carney is also asked about reporting from the Globe and Mail that alleges that Peter Yuen, the Liberal candidate chosen to replace Paul Chiang in Markham-Unionville, has links to pro-Beijing groups. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre announces that if his party forms government, he would reduce housing costs by incentivizing municipalities to cut home-building taxes. He also accuses Liberal Leader Mark Carney of failing to secure tariff relief for Canada, even as the U.S. offered a 90-day pause for other countries. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

“Civil society interlocutors, political and community leaders alike pointed to a continued trust deficit,” said UN envoy Caroline Ziadeh, urging dialogue to ease tensions in Kosovo. Briefing the Security Council on the situation in Kosovo, Ziadeh noted progress on some fronts, including the February parliamentary elections, which, despite technical issues and party appeals, were held without major incident. “It was especially encouraging to note the gains in women's representation,” she added. The UN envoy welcomed the recent appointment of Peter Sørensen as EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue, describing his “early engagement” as “an opportunity to support both sides in making headway.” Referring to an earlier agreement between the parties, she said, “The progress made in December, when Belgrade and Pristina agreed on the terms of reference for the Joint Commission on Missing Persons, should inspire both sides to move forward in other areas of the Dialogue.” Ziadeh also voiced concern over the deteriorating situation in northern Kosovo. “When I visited northern Kosovo on 25 March, civil society interlocutors, political and community leaders alike pointed to a continued trust deficit particularly vis-à-vis the institutions,” she said. “They lamented the unilateral actions taken by the Pristina authorities, including the recent closures of Serbia-run Centres of Social Welfare and the adverse socio-economic impact this has had.” She condemned the attack on the Ibar-Lepenac/Ibër-Lepenc water canal on 29 November and reiterated a call “for a comprehensive and transparent investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible.” She said, “I urge all leaders to act responsibly, avoid escalation, and to cooperate in bringing the perpetrators to justice.” Liberal Leader Mark Carney holds a campaign event in Delta, B.C., where he discusses his party's previously-announced housing plan, highlighting a pledge to build more homes using Canadian resources such as softwood lumber.  Carney is joined by Liberal candidates Jill Mcknight (Delta) and Gregor Robertson (Vancouver Fraserview–South Burnaby).  The Liberal leader faces questions from reporters on the use of overseas tax havens. Carney is also asked about his defence of Bill C-69 and the feasibility of building oil pipelines across Canada. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre holds a campaign event in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., where he promises to crack down on repeat offenders by bringing in a “Three-Strikes-and-You're-Out Law,” which would ensure that those convicted of three serious crimes would be jailed for a minimum of 10 years without parole. He is joined by Hugh Stevenson, Conservative candidate for Sault Ste. Marie–Algoma. Poilievre faces questions from reporters on how a Conservative government would act to protect the region's steel industry from the impacts of U.S. tariffs. He is also asked about a Global news report that alleges that a group linked to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi donated money to Poilievre's leadership campaign  Secretary General will meet the Minister of Defence, Mr Gen Nakatani. He will also visit the Yokosuka Naval Base and the Mitsubishi Electric Kamakura Works.  Mr Rutte will meet the Prime Minister, Mr Shigeru Ishiba, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Mr Yoji Muto, members of the Diet, and representatives of Japanese industry. The Secretary General will also give a speech followed by a moderated conversation on the topic “NATO and Japan – Strong Partnerships in an Interconnected World”, at the Keio University, in Tokyo.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Representatives from B'nai Brith Canada hold a news conference on Parliament Hill to discuss the findings from the group's audit of antisemitic incidents in Canada for the year 2024. Speaking with reporters are Henry Topas (Quebec regional director), Richard Robertson (director of research and advocacy) and David Matas (senior legal counsel). Liberal Leader Mark Carney holds a campaign event in Victoria, B.C., where he promises measures to help retirees deal with the economic uncertainty associated with U.S. President Donald Trump's global trade war. Carney also proposes a plan to protect Canada's nature, biodiversity and water that would, among other things, create 10 new national parks and marine protected areas. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

"What is happening here defies decency, it defies humanity, it defies the law," a UN humanitarian official said Wednesday, describing mounting horrors in Gaza as a “war without limits.” Briefing reporters in New York via video call, Jonathan Whittall, Head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, recounted a recent mission to Rafah, where he and colleagues uncovered a mass grave containing the bodies of medics. “These were medical workers from the Palestinian Red Crescent Society and the Civil Defense, still in their uniforms, still wearing gloves, they were killed while trying to save lives,” he said. “The ambulances were hit one by one as they advanced, as they acted into Rafah.” Whittall said the site was marked by crushed emergency vehicles, including a fire truck and a UN car. The incident, he said, was only one in a “parade” of horrors. In the past two weeks alone “UN premises have been shelled with tank fire, killing one of our colleagues and seriously injuring others. We've had international aid compounds and hospitals that have been hit,” he said. “People have been bombed at food distribution points where aid workers have also been killed.” Since the collapse of a ceasefire two weeks ago, forced displacement has surged, Whittall said, with about 100,000 people fleeing Rafah in the past 48 hours alone - many under fire. “I saw some of them in the same mission that I described at the beginning... running towards us and being shot in their backs,” he said. According to OCHA, 64 percent of Gaza is now under forced evacuation. “Nowhere and no one is safe in Gaza,” Whittall said. “My colleagues tell me that they just want to die with their families. Their worst fear is to survive alone.” Whittall also spoke about a total aid blockade. “Today, unfortunately, marks one month without any supplies entering into Gaza,” he said. “That's one month of no food, no fuel, no aid, nothing has entered. So, 2.5 million people are trapped, bombed, starved.” Prime Minister Mark Carney speaks with reporters in Ottawa after chairing a virtual meeting on U.S. tariffs with Canada's premiers. Carney comments on yesterday's announcement by President Donald Trump that the United States would impose reciprocal tariffs on a host of trading partners. The prime minister announces reciprocal 25 per cent tariffs on all automobiles from the United States that are not compliant with CUSMA trade agreement. Carney says that the money raised by the retaliatory measures will go toward providing support to the auto industry and its workers impacted by the U.S. tariffs. Carney faces questions from reporters on the future of the Canada-U.S. relationship and whether he has plans to speak with President Trump again in the near term.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Here's the clip from US President Donald Trump, the Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese and the Opposition Peter Dutton all talking about the US/Australia Tariffs.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

BRUSSELS, April 2 (Reuters) - NATO allies have pledged more than 20 billion euros ($21.65 billion) in military support for Ukraine in the first three months of the year, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Wednesday. Foreign ministers from the alliance meet in Brussels on Thursday and Friday to discuss further support for Ukraine agauinst Russia's three-year-old invasion. “WFP is prioritizing countries with the greatest needs and stretching food rations at the frontlines. While we are doing everything possible to reduce operational costs, make no mistake, we are facing a funding cliff with life-threatening consequences,” said Rania Dagash-Kamara, WFP Assistant Executive Director for Partnerships and Innovation. “Emergency feeding programmes not only save lives and alleviate human suffering – they bring greatly needed stability to fragile communities, which can spiral downwards when faced with extreme hunger.” The drastic reductions are threatening the organization's global programs in 28 regions, including Gaza, Sudan, Syria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

 Malcolm Bligh Turnbull is an Australian former politician and businessman who served as the 29th prime minister of Australia from 2015 to 2018. He held office as leader of the Liberal Party of Australia and was the member of parliament for the New South Wales division of Wentworth from 2004 to 2018.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

 questions from the Prime Minister Albamese on the Federal Election happening in May.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

In Windsor, Ont., Liberal Leader Mark Carney proposes the creation of a new fund to protect Canada's auto sector and “fortify the entire Canadian auto supply chain.” The $2-billion fund, which would provide aid to a sector directly impacted by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs, would also aim to help build more auto parts within Canada. The Liberal leader faces questions from reporters on a CBC story that alleges that during his time at Brookfield Asset Management, Carney co-headed two green investment funds that were registered in a Bermuda tax haven. Carney is also asked about naming the wrong school when discussing the 1989 Polytechnique massacre in Montreal. The Liberal leader mistakenly referred to the massacre as having occurred at Concordia University, in lieu of L'École Polytechnique. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte speech at the Warsaw School of Economics, 26 March 2025. x On 26 March 2025, Maarit Kohonen Sheriff, Director of the Global Operations Division at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, presented the following report to the Human Rights Council: "Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan—Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights" (A/HRC/58/73).Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Australian Budget for 2025. short because the australian election will be held in may. Here's the clip from the Australian Finance Minister Addressing the budget for 2025.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

SYRIA/SECURITY COUNCIL   This morning at the Security Council, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, told Council members that Syria stands at a crossroads: either to return to violence or to overcome the conflict and revive the economy. To take the right path, Syria needs increased and continued international support, he said.   For his part, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, said that we are making progress on the humanitarian front. We are now using more routes to deliver aid.  Premier Danielle Smith delivers the keynote address at the 2025 United Conservative Party Leader's Dinner in Edmonton, Edmonton's conservative movement is strong United and growing and we are just getting started now of course an event like this one doesn't just happen on its own it takes countless hours of hard work dedication and planning and that's where our incredible volunteers and staff come in these folks are the lifeblood of the UCP the ones who give their time energy and passion to ensure that our party and our Province are strong and I do want to take this moment to recognize all of our party volunteers and staff including our incredible executive director Dustin van vot he told me he'd be back at the bar somewhereBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Ottawa, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh speaks with reporters as the federal election campaign gets underway. He highlights his party's accomplishments around health and dental care, and pledges that an NDP government would work to protect all Canadians in the face of U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war. Voters will head to the polls on April 28. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre responds to questions from reporters after making a policy announcement in Brampton, Ontario. Voters will head to the polls on April 28. Liberal Leader Mark Carney responds to questions from reporters after making a policy announcement in Gander, Newfoundland. (Note: Portions of this event are not available due to technical problems at the source) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Ministers speak with reporters on Parliament Hill as the Cabinet Committee on Canada-U.S. Relations and National Security meets. They face questions on Canada's ongoing trade disputes with the U.S. and China and U.S. President Donald Trump's recent comments that he would rather deal with a liberal than a conservative government in Canada.   Speaking with reporters are ministers François-Philippe Champagne (finance),  Jonathan Wilkinson (energy and natural resources), Rachel Bendayan (immigration), Kody Blois (agriculture), and Steven MacKinnon (jobs and families).    Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly also discusses China's recent execution of several Canadian citizens for “drug-related crime.”  the members of the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine spoke to journalists in Geneva about their latest report to the UN Human Rights Council. The Chair of the Fact-Finding Mission, Erik Møse, and the two other expert members, Vrinda Grover and Pablo de Greiff, participated in a press conference held at the United Nations Office at Geneva. The Secretary-General is still in Brussels today, and a few hours ago, he took part in a working lunch with the Heads of State and Government of the European Union. As we mentioned, he was invited by the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa – and this lunch took place at the opening of the European Council.  The Secretary-General and Mr. Costa spoke to the press as they entered the European Union building. Mr. Guterres expressed his appreciation for our partnership with the EU, reiterating that it is a fundamental pillar of the multilateral response to the challenges we face in peace and security, climate, sustainable development, and human rights.   Turning to the situation in Ukraine, the Secretary-General said any ceasefire is welcome because it saves lives, but he added that it is essential that a ceasefire paves the way for a just peace in Ukraine – a peace that respects the UN Charter, international law, and Security Council resolutions, namely about the territorial integrity of Ukraine.   The Secretary-General renewed his appeal for respect of the ceasefire in Gaza, for unimpeded humanitarian access to all areas of Gaza, and for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages. His full remarks have been shared with you.                                                                 Tomorrow, the Secretary-General will deliver remarks in Leuven, where the universities KU Leuven and UC Louvain will jointly award an honorary doctorate to the United Nations. In his remarks, Mr. Guterres will pay tribute to the work and commitment of our UN colleagues around the world. The ceremony will be webcast live on UN WebTV.   Tomorrow, the Secretary-General is also scheduled to have a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever. The Secretary-General will be back here on Monday morning.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

On 14 March 2025, the members of the UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran spoke to journalists in Geneva about their latest report to the UN Human Rights Council. The Chair of the Fact-Finding Mission, Sara Hossain, and the two other expert members, Shaheen Sardar Ali and Viviana Krsticevic participated in a press conference held at the United Nations Office at Geneva. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says Australia will continue working hard to achieve a different outcome from Trump's confirmed trade tariffs. He has also confirmed he will not be imposing reciprocal tariffs in return.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Imtiaz Popat tells us why he is running for MP in Vancouver Kingsway in British Columbia with the Green Party. He wants us to focus on Human Rights, Stewardship and Soveriegnty of the people around the world so we can end violence and bigotryBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford addresses reporters at Queen's Park to announce a pause on the 25 per cent surcharge on electricity exports to three U.S. states. The move comes following a conversation between Premier Ford and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Earlier in the day, U.S. President Trump threatened an increase on Canadian steel and aluminum tariffs to 50 per cent in response to the Ontario's electricity surtax. Ford tells reporters he will travel to Washington on Thursday with federal Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc to meet with Lutnick and other U.S. officials to discuss the ongoing trade war. Green Party of Canada Co-Leaders Elizabeth May and Jonathan Pedneault held a press conference on March 11, 2025 to congratulate Mark Carney and react to his election as the new Leader of the Liberal Party. The implications of that choice for Canadian politics and the effort to defend Canada from an erratic US president were also discussed. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas condemned Russia's full-scale invasion and continuing war against Ukraine, underscored the need for humanitarian aid to reach civilians in Gaza, and reaffirmed the EU as a steadfast partner of the United Nations. She also emphasised that reinforcing multilateral cooperation is the only way to address collective challenges and safeguard international peace and security. “The world faces unprecedented pressure … our geopolitical context is changing, but you can count on the European Union as the United Nations' most reliable, credible, and predictable partner,” she said.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Mark Carney has won the race to succeed Justin Trudeau as Canada's prime minister, vowing to win the trade war with the US and President Donald Trump. The former governor of the Canadian central bank and Bank of England beat three rivals in the Liberal Party's leadership contest in a landslide. In much of his victory speech, Carney, 59, attacked Trump, who has imposed tariffs on Canada and said he wants to make the country the 51st US state. "Americans should make no mistake," he said. "In trade, as in hockey, Canada will win." Carney is expected to be sworn in the coming days and will lead the Liberals in the next general election, which could be called in the coming weeks. Speaking with reporters on Parliament Hill, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre comments on Mark Carney's Liberal leadership victory. Poilievre reiterates his concerns over the new Liberal leader's financial assets and interests, suggesting U.S. President Donald Trump could use them as leverage amid the ongoing Canada-U.S. trade war.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Amid Evolving Political Reality, Security Council Speakers Urge Breakthrough on Syria's Chemical Weapons Compliance The new political reality in Syria presents an opportunity to obtain long-overdue clarifications on the Syrian chemical weapons programme, rid the country of all such weapons and ensure long-term compliance with the Chemical Weapons Convention, a senior United Nations official told the Security Council today. “The importance of closing all outstanding issues related to Syria's chemical weapons dossier cannot be overstated,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, during her briefing to the 15-member Council. Although the previous Syrian authorities submitted 20 amendments to Syria's initial declaration, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Declaration Assessment Team was never able to confirm that the information was accurate.  Over the last 11 years, the Team has raised and reported a total of 26 outstanding issues with Syria's declaration. “The OPCW Technical Secretariat has reported that the substance of the 19 outstanding issues remains a ‘serious concern' as it involves large quantities of potentially undeclared or unverified chemical warfare agents and chemical munitions,” she added. The OPCW Fact-Finding Mission and the OPCW Investigation and Identification Team have documented the use of chemical weapons in Syria, and in several incidents, identified the Syrian Arab Armed Forces as the perpetrators.  The OPCW Technical Secretariat has reported that Syria continued to use, and possibly produce, chemical weapons after joining the Chemical Weapons Convention in 2013.  “The situation left by the previous Syrian authorities is extremely worrying,” she went on to stress. But, there are some encouraging signs.  The OPCW Director-General recently received assurances that the new authorities are committed to destroying any remains of the chemical weapons programme, bringing justice to the victims and ensuring Syria's compliance with international law.  A new focal point for chemical weapons matters within the Syria's Foreign Ministry travelled to The Hague for in-person meetings with the OPCW Technical Secretariat on how to advance the OPCW's “Nine-Point Action Plan for Syria”. In the coming days, a team of experts from the OPCW Technical Secretariat will be deployed to Damascus to establish OPCW's permanent presence in Syria and start jointly planning deployments to chemical weapons sites.  While the commitment of the caretaker authorities in Syria to fully cooperate with the OPCW Technical Secretariat is commendable, the work ahead will not be easy and will require additional resources from the international community. “I urge the members of this Council to unite and show leadership in providing the support that this unprecedented effort will require,” she said. In the ensuing discussion among Council members, many speakers took note of the developments reported to date, underscoring them as important steps towards implementing relevant Council resolutions and securing Syria's fulfilment of its international commitments.  Several speakers also stressed the importance of ensuring that chemical weapons do not fall into the hands of non-State actors.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Press Conference by President: H.E. Ambassador Akan Rakhmetullin, First Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan; Ms. Melissa Parke, Executive Director of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons; Ms. Eirini Giorgiou, Legal Advisor, International Committee of the Red Cross; Ms. Taraem Taukaro of Kiribati, A representative of affected community. --- As the third Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) got underway today (3 Mar) at United Nations Headquarters in New York, Kazakh First Deputy Foreign Minister Akan Rakhmetullin welcomed new ratifications of the Treaty by Indonesia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone and the Solomon Islands.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly takes part in a discussion on Canada–US. Relations hosted by the Vancouver Board of Trade. Moderated by board president Bridgitte Anderson, the discussion focuses on the future of bilateral relations and on the federal government's efforts to navigate the second Trump presidency. Joly comments on the impending U.S. tariff threat and highlights the importance of diversifying trade and breaking down interprovincial trade barriers. In Ottawa, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre lays out his proposals for bolstering Canada's economy amid the threat of U.S. tariffs, which President Donald Trump has said may now come into effect on March 4. Poilievre also takes aim at Mark Carney, accusing the Liberal leadership frontrunner of lying about his role in moving Brookfield Asset Management's headquarters from Toronto to New York. Responding to questions from reporters, Poilievre comments on the recent Oval Office meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. As Friday ended, we all got word of a fight that happened in the Oval Office, in the White House, and it was captured live on American television. It was properly broadcasted on the White House YouTube channel, Mr. Zielinski was defending himself against bullies in the Trump administration. It kind of all started with, sadly, with some blogger commenting Mr. Zinsky wasn't wearing a suit. Pretty certain that the person commenting why he doesn't wear a suit was planted there by Mr. Trump to demean Mr. Zelensky and demean him as a leader.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Mr. Zelensky leaves the White House without a deal, or, should I say, leaves them with without a a treaty agreement between the United States and Ukraine so that they can continue a relationship together that would work to help make a better world instead, he leaves after hearing Mr. Donald Trump say that he is going to be the cause of world war three.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

Here's the clip from the National Press Club of Australia and the guest speaker is The Hon. Ed Husic Australian Minister of Industry and Science. Elected to the House of Representatives for Chifley, New South Wales, 2010. Re-elected 2013, 2016, 2019 and 2022. Served as the Australian Labor Party from 21.08.2010 to present day.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

 let's focus on Ukraine because the United Nations did. They had a meeting with the General Assembly on this which will be the third anniversary of the war of aggression posed by Russia against Ukraine, as they, three years ago, invaded the Ukrainian borders and hoped to well, quite frankly, the hope was probably to take over the country of Ukraine, to put President Zelensky out of power, and once again, have Ukraine under their curtain and control. Vladimir Putin, three years ago, discussed all the reasons why Ukraine should be part of Russia and should not be its own sovereign country. They and he does this, do not want to recognize Ukrainian sovereignty. Okay, so, we have this war of aggression that has progressed over the past three years. Damage and destruction have been done on both sides of the Russian-Ukrainian border, with troops having moved far into both countries, and Ukrainian troops having taken or done destruction several miles within the Russian border. And of course, military actions and equipment belonging to the Russian Federation is standing on the Ukrainian bordersBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.