From the Editors: 9-15 September 2024

 

This week we feature A Collection of Portraits by George McBean.

George dedicates his collection "To all fellow artists among our XUNICEF family." The collection is also "a selection of portraits .. recently produced for an on-line group of artists in Cleveland. USA." George McBean is now well retired and lives in Edinburgh but continues to inspire many by his creativity.

Our columnists, Ken Gibbs, Nuzhat Shahzadi and Ramesh Shrestha have much to share through their contributions this week:

Ken's "Evolution of the Mouse" recalls his days in Bangladesh. Ken explains how "we were almost defeated by a mouse" during his days in Bangladesh. Ken goes on to say that "Perhaps the time has come for one of our XUNICEF members who has an artistic flair to update the 'Evolution of Man' for 'Evolution of the Mouse". Read on!

"Maternal care services are becoming a challenge in rural America as hospitals are closing maternity centers," Nuzhat laments. Recalling her own work with remote communities on pregnancy and childbirth, "What's Not So Normal About It?" she asks. Why are women in this wealthiest nation facing maternal-care obstacles? Read on as Nuzhat takes us through her personal journey as a health care/communication professional beginning with a grassroots NGO in Bangladesh.

"Why is Peace so elusive?" - Ramesh asks while analyzing what he calls the "Perils of Peace". Read on as Ramesh offers his view of the checkered history of humankind through war and conflict and leaves us with a yet another question to ponder: "What will bring peace and stability in our society as envisioned in the UN Charter?"

Click these links to see the articles on Gaza and Sudan which continue to dominate our concerns through the week. 

Hugo Slim argues that Humanitarian Purpose Needs to Change in an article Paula Claycomb shares from The New Humanitarian. Slim argues that since saving humans is not enough and makes a strong plea for a radical shift in humanitarian action to address the global climate crisis.

Ellen Johnson (24th President of Liberia 2006-2018) argues that For the Pact of the Future to succeed, there is a need to include women and girls.

Karin Hulshof, RD Al TACRO reiterates that Migrant Children should not be separated from their families.

Mary Racelis is presently in NY where she met with the leadership of GSA and has sent us a brief report of her visit. Note the four issues Mary has raised.

And do take note of the Save the Date Poster shared by Ces Dorna for and on behalf of the next XUNICEF Reunion in the Philippines - February 3-9 2025.  

Click here for comments we received from readers this week.

Gautam Banerji

Editor for the Week