Police Reform in Pakistan
“A law on police reform was not put into place by successive Pakistani governments. Why not put it into practice now with a newly and democratically elected government?” a participant asked at the consultation “Police Reform in Pakistan”, which was facilitated by I. A. Rehmann, Director of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, and Sanjay Patil from the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI). Pakistan stands at a crossroads on a number of issues, including policing. An effective counter-insurgency strategy cannot be implemented without an efficient and trusted police force.
South Asia Youth for Democracy, Peace and Open Borders
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| A candle-lit demontsration against terrorism at India Gate on the occassion of the SAYS |
The aftermath of the terrorist attacks in Mumbai displays how fragile the relationship between Pakistan and India still is. Terrorism remains one of the biggest export hits in the little integrated region of South Asia. With a candle-lit demonstration more than 80 participants of the “South Asia Youth Summit 2008” united at India Gate in New Delhi against terrorism.
Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt visits India
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| Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt, Chairman Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit |
Peaceful integration of a pluralistic society in a globalizing world, the need for well-thought of strategies to combat international terrorism, the importance of a common European foreign policy, and the increasing concern to tackle the growing environmental problems were some of the key areas that Dr. Gerhardt concentrated on in his keynote address delivered at New-Delhi. Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt, chairman of the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNF), was on a short visit to India and took the opportunity to interact with a group of prominent strategy experts, partners and numerous friends in a discussion on the topic “Challenges of Foreign Policy in the 21st Century”.
Peruvian Writer Mario Vargas (left) Awarded Freedom Prize from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation
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| Freedom Prize winner Mario Vargas Llosa and FNF Chairman Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt |
Mario Vargas Llosa, a Peruvian writer, politician, journalist and essayist, has been awarded the Freedom Prize 2008 from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation. In his acceptance speech delivered at a ceremony at St. Paul’s Church in Frankfurt, Germany on 8 November 2008, Mr. Llosa defended free market, globalisation, capitalism and absence of government subsidies. He was chosen for this prestigious award for his intellectual contribution to the advancement of freedom.
India and Pakistan need to take bold decisions...
says Dr. René Klaff, Regional Director, FNF South Asia, at the conference on India-Pakistan Economic Relations
Speaking at the conference organized by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and supported by Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNF) together with its partner organization, SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) in New-Delhi, Dr. Klaff shared the EU experience of Germany and France, where economic relations played a key role in easing out political tensions between the two countries and eventually laid the foundation of a strong European Union. A cordial relationship between the two biggest economies of South Asia would have a similar positive impact on the other smaller countries of the region. This would result in immense opportunities for all member countries of South Asia, he said.
Future Youth Group, Pakistan unearths unique ways of Conflict Management for Peace in the Region
All living beings react differently in conflict. The reactions of human being are the most diverse when confronted with critical conflict situations. During a workshop of Future Youth Group by Liberal Youth South Asia (LYSA) the focus was on Systems Thinking Paradigm while dealing with the personal, communal, regional and other conflicts. The moderator, Ms. Gulmina Bilal made the participants ponder why and how people turn violent in various circumstances.
Freedom of Information ACT 2002: Empowerment of the Common Man
Pakistan
The governed have the legitimate right to question the governing bodies and the ruling elite about governance lapses directly affecting them. The right to information ensures the people to enjoy the public utilities they are entitled to under the laws and the constitution in a democracy. In Pakistan this right is protected under Freedom of Information Act 2002. These were the propositions that were discussed during a three day FreedomGate Seminar on Freedom of Information recently in Islamabad.
Breaking Myth, Impunity and Silence against Torture in India
The National Project on Preventing Torture in India (NPPTI), supported by the European Union and the Friedrich Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit, is implemented by People's Watch in 47 districts across 9 States. The Project seeks the prevention and reduction of torture and other forms of degrading behavior by the police forces in India. Through documentation of more than 6000 individual cases of police torture, the project has established that torture exists and it is deeply rooted in the functioning of the police behavior of the country.
Celebrating 40 years of FNF in Sri Lanka
Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit held a commemorative event to celebrate 40 years of existence in Sri Lanka. Dr. Rene Klaff, traced the milestones of the Foundation’s 40 year journey to promote liberal values in Sri Lanka and paid tribute to all those who have worked with FNF to make it one of Sri Lanka’s best known and valued organizations. The guest of honour for the evening, John Lord Alderdice, congratulated the foundation for its impressive record in Sri Lanka. Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Alternatives speaking on behalf of all FNF partners, paid a well deserved tribute to the Foundation and its representative in Sri Lanka in his usual impressive rhetoric.
11th Dudley Senanayake Memorial Lecture, Sri Lanka
On the 24th October 2008, in Colombo Sri Lanka, the 11th Dudley Senanayake Memorial Lecture was delivered with great articulacy by John Lord Alderdice, President of Liberal International. His subject was Risks, Rights and Respect-essential elements of The Irish Peace Process. This was subject that is topical and of extreme relevance to Sri Lanka, the island nation embroiled in a decades long ethnic conflict. The conflict has wrecked havoc in the country’s political, economic and social environs and this great speech once again reminded how very important it is to embark on a peaceful means to ensure freedom and human dignity for all Sri Lankans.
Black Saturday in Islamabad
Blues of 9/20 of Pakistan
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| Horst August |
Mr. Horst August, Senior Advisor of FNF, Pakistan Office survives the suicide attack outside Marriott Hotel. Mr. August as head of the project for an interim period of four months, was staying at Marriott Hotel, Islamabad situated in the Red Zone of Islamabad that was believed to be the most protected area in terms of security. After the powerful attack outside the gate of one of the finest hotels in Islamabad, the burning pieces of the truck and the explosive materials containing aluminum powder hit the top floors causing an inextinguishable fire. Later the fire engulfed the whole building.
Forty Years of Project Work in India and Sri Lanka
In 1968, only ten years after the inception of the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung, the Foundation started with its project work in India and Sri Lanka. In Colombo, the Foundation maintained right from the beginning an office that was headed by Resident Representatives sent from Germany. Since 1996, Naumann affairs in Sri Lanka are prudently managed by Sagarica Delgoda, our Country Representative. The organizational structure in India, on the other hand, remained more flexible for many years. Some representatives worked for FNF part-time, while they were holding other positions simultaneously – as was the case, for instance, in the 1980's with Urs Schöttli, whose other engagement was that of foreign correspondent for the Neue Zürcher Zeitung. At times, project affairs in India were even looked after from Colombo – or from our office in Kathmandu, for that matter.
How do liberal parties function in Europe?
This was the general theme of an information programme in Brussels and Berlin organized by the Delhi Office of FNF for six representatives of Lok Satta Party in May, accompanied by the Regional Director, Dr. René Klaff. After an introductory one-day seminar with Prof. Dr. Michael Dreyer, Director of the Institute of Political Science at the University of Jena, on political institutions and party systems in the EU and Germany, the group met a wide range of counterparts, mainly from the liberal political family, who informed about different aspects of politics, policies and institutional set-ups of liberal parties.
Police Reform in South Asia
Democratic nations need democratic policing. Effective policing must be based on accountability, transparency and participation of people. Unfortunately, in post colonial South Asia, policing has not kept pace with democratic aspirations. Across the South Asian region, police reform and police accountability are key human rights concerns. Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI) has taken up these concerns on a regional level in its publication “Feudal Forces: Democratic Nations”.
A “Feather in their cap”
Business Development Strategies Consultancy (BDS)
FNF, Sri Lanka partner Business Development Strategies Consultancy (BDS) made another significant stride in their journey to promote the concept “Education Opens the Door to Freedom”. Having gathered their success with the Gainful Employment program targeting Ordinary Level & Advanced Level School Children, the management of the Arts Faculty of the University of Colombo made a request to BDS to carry out a similar programme for the undergraduates.
Key Persons' Forum
SMED, Sri Lanka
On 7 August 2008, Small & Medium Enterprise Developers (SMED), a joint project of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce & Industry in Sri Lanka (FCCISL) and the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNF) held their 06th Key Persons Forum of the year. The Key note address was given by Hon. Felix Perera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
Right to Information
“Securing an Access to Information Law in Sri Lanka” – a two days intensive workshop brought together Sri Lankan civil society organizations, advocates and the media on the subject of right to information. The right to information is a unique human right, the touchstone for all freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated. More than 70 countries have enacted laws to provide people access to government-held information.
Peter-Andreas Bochmann leaves to serve FNF in Bulgaria
After being five years in Pakistan as Resident Representative of Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit, Mr. Bochmann prepares to officiate from Bulgaria. While being based in Sofia, he will be in charge of four countries of the region namely Bulgaria, Romania, Macedonia and Moldova. Unlike the work in Pakistan, these countries already have established liberal political parties which are the main partners of the Foundation.
Mutual Funds Dynamics of Liberalism in Pakistan
“Mutual Funds” aims to describe and analyze growth dynamics of mutual fund sector in the context of financial liberalization with special emphasis on the individual investors. This report has been prepared for mutual funds, investors, policy makers, regulators and students of financial markets. Economies of the developing countriers like Pakistan suffer chronically from a low saving rate which feeds into low investment rates.
Regulatory Reforms in India
The Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit together with its partner Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies, Rajiv Gandhi Foundation organized the first seminar of the series on “Regulatory Reforms in India” in Chandigarh on 18th July 2008. Last year the two organizations brought out a publication “Regulations Nurture Illegality – Counterproductive Regulations of Delhi”. This work identified the regulations existing in Industry, Business, Agriculture, Land, Service Sector etc. This National Seminar was conducted as a follow-up to discuss the findings of the research work and to take the outcome to a larger target-group.
Politicians of conflicting ideologies reach a consensus to resolve the issues of Federalism
The statement appears too good to be true. But under the umbrella of FreedomGate Pakistan the Pakistani politicians from liberal, democratic and nationalist political parties and factions sat for three days around a table to listen to each other’s viewpoint. The sessions observed hot debates, argumentation, persistence to hold one’s ground and finally resoluteness to formulate some workable formula that could be acceptable to all the provinces and factions existing in the troubled areas.
Liberal Forum Pakistan recasts itself by revisiting its strategy and target image
Liberal Forum Pakistan gets a tail wind by Mr. Manfred Richter to reorganize itself in terms of thematic and organizational matters during a three day Strategy Workshop held 28-30 July in Islamabad. This strategy Workshop for Liberal Forum Pakistan was meant to streamline the organization and define its concrete objectives for the year 2008. It served to bring all the members of the board and thinking minds around a table to discuss all the internal organizational matters after the transitional phase of LFP during the first half of the year and thematic issues concerning liberals in the current scenario.
FNF Partners vow to cooperate for making space for liberal values in the country
There is a dire need for the promotion of liberal values in the terrorism stricken society of Pakistan where the subsequent prevailing uncertainty and declining economy promises no future to investors. These propositions were debated during the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNF) Partners’ Meeting on 2nd August 2008 at Islamabad.
Liberals counteract the current challenges posed to the Political Economy and Security of the country
during Sixth International Academy for Leadership (IAF) Alumni meeting 19-20 July in Islamabad
Political stability, rule of law, and patience to let the democratic process continue are the fundamental principles for social, political and economic development. These propositions were debated during the two day IAF Alumni Meeting in Islamabad. The meeting was attended by the Director International Academy for Leadership (IAF), Ms. Birgit Lamm, and eminent politicians who are also the alumni, Senator Rukhsana Zuberi, Former MNA, Dr. Donya Aziz and Senator ® Sanaullah Baloch.
Economic Freedom for the States of India held in Jammu and Srinagar
The Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit together with its partner Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies of the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation organized two workshops in the state of Jammu and Kashmir recently. The programme in Jammu on 17.06.2008, jointly organized by the University of Jammu, invited Mr. Janak Raj Gupta, the political advisor to Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir to interact on the subject of Economic Freedom for the states of India with a special focus on J & K. On the other hand, in Srinagar (19.06.2008), the seat of parliament in summers, the Deputy Chief Minister of J & K, Mr. Muzaffar H. Beigh, participated in the discussions on the issue of Economic Freedom.
Campaign against torture in India
In the third year of the implementation of the EU-FNF supported National Project on Prevention of Torture in India, the focus is on the advocacy and lobbying. The fact finding and intervention data in all the nine states are complete and cases are identified for hearings during the state level public tribunals. The recently concluded Public Tribunal in Varanasi (28-29 April, 2008) was a very important event in the state of Uttar Pradesh from the point of civil society groups and its campaign for individual rights.
The Institute for Democracy & Leadership (IDL) and the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNF) organize a public forum to spread the message of Freedom
Late Hon. Lalith Athulathmudali was not only a one of Sri Lanka’s most well known, key politicians, but also a prominent Liberal personality Sri Lanka produced. Therefore, his association of with the top management of FNF was naturally close. He was one of the first visitors from Sri Lanka to IAF and the Foundation’s head office. As a top cabinet Minister, he has addressed the International Colloquium on “Freedom & Human Dignity in development strategies” in Berlin.
Economic Freedom prerequisite for development
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| Group picture of participants |
Economic Freedom and Political Freedom influence the pace and outcome of development. Both depend in fundamental ways on rule of law. These propositions were debated during a three day seminar on economic freedom held here under the auspices of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Liberty and moderated by the German expert, Dr Stefan Melnik. The seminar highlighted the manifold relationships between political and economic freedom at a global level and, more specifically in Pakistan.
Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani endorses Economic Freedom
The Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit together with its regional partner SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) intensifies the debate on Economic Freedom in South Asia
Speaking at the seminar on “Economic Freedom: A Stimulator for Achieving Business Excellence in South Asia” in Lahore, the newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan, Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani, recognized that Economic Freedom was a prerequisite for prosperity and development in South Asia. Appreciating the business community as an engine for growth, he alleged that South Asian entrepreneurs had the determination and the imagination to ensure a transformation that could help achieve the noble objectives for which SAARC was created.
The Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit reaffirms its policy on Tibet
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| Dr. Jürgen Morlok |
The Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit does not change its policy on Tibet. This was decided unanimously by the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, chaired by Dr. Jürgen Morlok. At the same time reports are refuted which claim that the Foundation would have steered Anti-China protests through the "5th International Tibet Support Groups Conference" from 11th to 14th May 2007 in Brussels, which had been co-organised by the Foundation. Among others the Chinese news agency Xinhua has been spreading such insinuations.
The Electoral Reforms Debate in Sri Lanka
On 17 January 2008, the publication draft of the Electoral Reforms Debate in Sri Lanka was presented at a workshop, to a selected audience for discussion and exchange of opinion. The research on Electoral Reforms Debate in Sri Lanka is a crucially important study carried out by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA) in association with the Friedrich-Naumann- Stiftung für die Freiheit.
Launch of ‘Liberal Youth Forum India’ in Mumbai
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| Mr. Sharad Joshi unveil the LYF-India Logo |
On April 5, 2008 the Liberal Youth Forum of India (LYF-India, read as Life India) was launched at Mumbai with the support of Friedrich- Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit and Center for Civil Society. The launched was inaugurated by the Member of Parliament, Mr Sharad Joshi. Mr Joshi unveiled the logo of LYF-India and shared his views on liberal movements in India.
IFAN Annual General Meeting 2008
The FNF and its Alumni Network known as India-FNF Alumni Network (IFAN) held the Annual General Meeting 2008 in Mumbai. IFAN is a network, which provides a platform for its members to exchange ideas and explore ways of collaborating with each others, in order to build synergy towards a wider liberal movement in India. IFAN meeting was held a day after the launch of Liberal Youth Forum India (LYF-India). The core group of LYF-India members were invited to participate in IFAN as observers to explore possible area of collaboration.
Liberal Journalists and community workers ascertain modern campaigning and advocacy techniques
FreedomGate Pakistan in collaboration with Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNSt) organized a seminar on Media Campaigning & Advocacy Skills 3-6 April in Murree. The seminar targeted the participants from the liberals associated with FNSt partner organizations in Pakistan in one way or the other. Most of the participants were the liberal journalists who joined hands with Liberal Forum Pakistan for highlighting the issues that concern liberals through Media.
Liberal Youth South Asia (LYSA) forms a new strategy
Open Communication and Visibility are the goals of the 3 year young network of youth organisations in South Asia for the year 2008. This was decided by delegates of member organisations from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India in an Annual General Meeting and a strategy workshop, which also elected a new team of leaders.
FreedomGate identifies future trainers
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| Group picture of participants |
FreedomGate Pakistan gathered young liberals under one roof in Karachi (15-18 December 2007) to share novel and diverse communication and moderation techniques. The young members of Future Youth Group(FYG) and other partner organizations enthusiastically participated and reciprocated their experiences, visions, and ideas with each other. The trainer, Mr. Tauseeq Haider introduced various interpersonal communication techniques while preparing the participants for public communication and moderating events.
Young Liberals Network in India
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| Young Liberals of India |
Committed and enthusiastic liberal youth of India have formed the Liberal Youth Forum of India (LYF India). They are former participants of seminars conducted by the Think Tank, Center for Civil Society (CCS), who has been challenging youth all over India to deliberate on liberal solutions. Inspired by liberal ideas the CCS Alumni have created Friends of Freedom groups and other organisations. An informal network of young liberals grew swiftly in India in the past years. With the help of a strategy consultant of the Foundation these individuals and groups will emerge as a collective strength in future.
Mega city of Karachi faces huge traffic problems
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Nasreen Jalil, Vice Mayor of Karachi addresses the seminar
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Shehri-CBE (Citizens for a better Environment) recently conducted a well received seminar on city development with the special topic: “Managing Cities: The Transport Dilemma” in the mega city of Karachi. “Shehri” is the Urdu word for citizen. This organization, which has been collaborating with the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNSt) since 1990, strives in the city of Karachi for the interests of the inhabitants and for an active civil society. For a long time the word environment haven’t been meant only environmental issues but also good governance, traffic policy, democracy and effective participating local government.
EFN Pakistan prepares to take off
Economists and experts finalize Work plan 2008 in EFN Expert’s Hearing
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| Dr. Sahiba Wizarat, head of Alpplied Economics Research Centre Karachi, explains the economic situation in Pakistan |
Economic Freedom Network (EFN) Pakistan in cooperation with Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNSt) sat recently with the eminent economists and experts for an Expert’s Hearing on Economic Freedom (EF) Index, Pakistani Edition at Islamabad. Economists from Pakistan and head of the Asian Economic Freedom Network from Bangkok, Dr. Gurowut Numnak discussed Economic Freedom in different fields in detail. Dr. Gurowut Numnak explained the purpose and background of the Asian Economic Freedom Network, which was established some years ago and which combines economic freedom think tanks from all over Asia.
Liberals learn novel ways of campaigning and lobbying for liberal ideas
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| Manfred Richter explains how to lobby and campaign |
Members of the liberal organizations and partners of FNSt Pakistan learnt new techniques and skills for successful campaigning. The German expert, member of board of directors and treasurer of Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNSt), Mr. Manfred Richter conducted the seminar for liberal friends on a special request. This activitiy was organized by FreedomGate Pakistan (FGP) in collaboration with FNSt.
Economic Freedom: A Liberal Strategy for Development
From 6-13 October 2007, the Regional Office South Asia of the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit together with the Department for International Political Dialogue organized a week long study tour on the topic “Economic Freedom: A Liberal Strategy for Development” in Berlin, Germany and Brussels, Belgium.
Tamil Nadu State Government abides by NHRC Guideline on Encounter Killing
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| Victims Meeting |
Amidst growing concern regarding frequent "encounter killings" a local expression meaning "extra judicial killings" happening in the Sate of Tamil Nadu in India, it is inspiring to observe that the Government of the State of Tamil Nadu has come up with a recent circular issued to all the District Collectors and the Superintendents of Police directing them to strictly adhere to the guidelines based on the "Revised Guidelines/Procedures to be followed in dealing with deaths occurring in encounter" issued on December 12, 2003 by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India.
Commercialization of Research & Development – Policy of the Government
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| Mrs Sagarica Delgoda, Resident Representative FNSt Sri Lanka, addressing the Forum |
The topic of the 7th Key Persons’ Forum organized by Project Small & Medium Enterprise Developers (Project SMED) held on the 18 October 2007, was ‘Commercialization of Research & Development-Policy of the Government.’ The Key Person’s address was delivered by Prof. Tissa Vitharana, Hon. Minister of Science & Technology and Chairman of the All Party Representatives Committee.
Economic Freedom of the World: 2007 Annual Report
“Economic freedom, like political freedom, is integral to a good society" so writes the Indian Union Minister of Commerce and Industry in his preface to the Indian reprint of the Economic Freedom of the World: 2007 Annual Report.
The Liberal Youth Guilds of Sri Lanka become the proud owners of a Library and a National Secretariat
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| Dr. René Klaff, Regional Director FNSt South Asia at the inauguration |
The Liberal Youth Guilds, which began their quest to foster cooperation among youth to promote liberal values and ideas in Sri Lanka in the year 2004, reached a remarkable milestone this year by establishing a fully equipped National Secretariat in Matara, Southern Province of Sri Lanka. They were also fortunate to add a Library to enhance the capabilities of the LYG members.
Doing Business in South Asia
The Friedrich-Naumann–Stiftung für die Freiheit together with its partner the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) organized a symposium in New Delhi on the topic “Doing Business in South Asia: Constraints and Impediments”.
Indian Liberals' meet in Hyderabad
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| Group pictures of participants |
Liberty Institute and FNSt invited for a Round Table Discussion on the topic "Political Strategies for Liberal Reforms in India". Some 30 Liberals from all parts of the country – writers, activists, businesspeople – with a lot of political experience came together and discussed for two days a wide range of topics.
In support of promoting Liberal Principles
On 14 October 2007, Business Development Services Consultancy (BDS), partner of the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit in Sri Lanka, added another feather in their cap. A group of young students who followed the “Gainful Employment Programme” two years ago, today as successful young leaders clearly on their way to make a mark on the society, volunteered to conduct sessions of the current programme.
Regional Office South Asia: Audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama
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| Dr. René Klaff in the Audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama |
For almost last 15 years the FNSt has been cooperating with the Tibetan Parliament in Exile and their Think Tank, the Tibetan Parliamentary and Policy Research Centre (TPPRC). Now the Regional Office South Asia met in Dharamsala, which is the seat of His Holiness and the Tibetan Exile Institutions.
Consultancy for reform party in India
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| Group picture |
Lok Satta means People's Power. This is the name of the still very young regional political party from Andhra Pradesh, which can be located in the spectrum of political liberalism. The party, especially its head Dr. J.P Narayan, has been in good contact with the Delhi office of Friedrich Naumann – Stiftung für die Freiheit. Dr. Rolf Steltemeier, a consultant of the Foundation, conducted a consultancy from 29.-31.8.2007 on the topic "Party organisation, Communication, Strategic planning".
50th Anniversary of Ayn Rand's "Atlas Shrugged"
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| Katrin Bannach, FNSt South Asia addresses the gathering |
On October, 12 Liberty Institute and the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Ayn Rand’s most influential book, Altas Shrugged, in Delhi. In the US it is considered to be the book, after the bible that had an impact on the readers. With Atlas Shrugged Ayn Rand pleaded the case for freedom and independent thinking by writing fiction.
Pakistani public impressed by FreedomGate
Liberal youth organization motivates young and first time voters
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| Ross Mahtani, General Secretary FYG and President LYSA addresses the guests of Freedomgate Video Launch |
Pakistani media was impressed, when FreedomGate Pakistan – a liberal network of alumni of International Academy for Leadership (IAF) in Germany – launched a recently self-produced video, to raise awareness in youth of their right to vote. The attention of the young voters was captivated by using youth language and life like situation.
Media’s role in upcoming elections – LFP strengthens relations with journalists
Although by now nobody exactly knows when the national elections will take place in Pakistan, it’s for sure that they will happen soon. Liberal Forum Pakistan (LFP) has initiated a series of Media Workshops to improve relations with media and feed them with liberal ideas, where not only the media personnel were invited, but information secretaries and other office bearers of LFP also actively participated. In two days workshop, they strengthened their relations by intensive discussions and exchanged novel concepts of information sharing.
Liberalism & Secularism–important issues in Pakistan
FreedomGate Pakistan becomes active
FreedomGate Pakistan, an initiative of Pakistani IAF alumni, has started a series of seminars similar to the German International Academy for Leadership (IAF). The main purpose is to create more liberal space by conducting seminars establishing virtual platforms to inform about to discuss political matters and to support the existing liberal partners of Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit.
Pakistan: Civic organization gets tail wind
Shehri-CBE (Citizens for a better Environment) got recently tail wind through a strategy consultancy organized by Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit. Shehri is the Urdu word for citizen. This organization, which has been collaborating with the Foundation since 1990, strives in the city of Karachi for the interests of the inhabitants and for an active civil society.
Global Launch of the Economic Freedom Index of the World 2007 in New-Delhi
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| Release of Economic Freedom Index of the World 2007 |
The Friedrich-Naumann–Stiftung für die Freiheit together with the Economic Freedom Network Asia, the Fraser Institute and the local host, the Centre for Civil Society launched the global Economic Freedom Index of the World 2007 on 4 September 2007 in New-Delhi. Launching the report, prepared by the Fraser Institute of Canada, Industry and Commerce Minister, Shri Kamal Nath said that India had significantly improved its position especially under freedom to trade internationally in the last fifteen years.
Challenges of Globalisation: The Role of Economic Freedom
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| Training workshop for journalists |
The Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit together with its partner the Press Institute of India organized a training workshop for journalists on the subject of “Challenges of Globalisation: The Role of Economic Freedom” at Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad on 7-8 August 2007 and another in Bangalore on 17th August 2007. These workshops are part of the four series workshops to be conducted across India.
The flourishing Telecom Sector brings maximum benefits to the common man
FNSt together with Development Pool launched the survey report Telecom Liberalization: Its Implications for a Common Man on 15 August at Marriott Hotel, Islamabad
The study is an initiative of Economic Freedom Network of Pakistan. The survey conducted by Development Pool and supported by FNSt mainly focuses on the marvelous growth of telecom sector in a short span of time highlighting the benefit that privatization and free market economy brings to the masses.
Fifth International Conference of Tibet Support Groups
Dalai Lama withdraws his participation – Wolfgang Gerhardt criticizes Belgium
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| Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt, Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, Dr. Otto Graf Lambsdorff, Tempa Tsering, Rolf Berndt |
The 5th International Tibet Support Groups Conference was held in Brussels from 11th – 14th May, 2007, organized by the Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile and the Friedrich Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit, in collaboration with the Belgian Inter-Parliamentary Group for Tibet.
UN Day in support of Torture Victims
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| Policeman reading the poster on what torture means |
The UN Day in Support of Torture Victims was observed on 26th June. In the framework of the National Project on "Prevention of Torture in India", a joint project of the EU, the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit (FNSt) and Peoples Watch Tamil Nadu (PWTN), several programmes in forms of demonstrations, poster competitions, candle light marches, formation of human chains were organized to highlight the issue of police torture. Meetings were also organized at the district and state level to sensitise the members of the civil society groups about forms of torture and the need for torture specific laws in the country.
New Board of Directors
Friedrich Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit
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| New Board of Directors |
On April 27, 2007, the 29 members of the Foundation's Board of Trustees, chaired by Prof. Dr. Jürgen Morlok, elected the Board of Directors which is responsible for the management and the formulation of policies of the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung für die Freiheit. The Board of Directors consists of seven members, and it holds office for a period of four years. Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt, MP, was confirmed as Chairman, as were his deputies Dr. Wolf-Dieter Zumpfort and Axel Hoffmann. Manfred Richter remains Treasurer, and Rolf Berndt will continue as Managing Director and CEO of the Foundation. Also Dr. Irmgard Schwaetzer was re-elected.
National Project on Preventing Torture in Karnataka, India
Organised by SICHREM and sponsored by EU-FNSt-PWTN
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| Inauguration of the programme |
The police in India is widely perceived as torturing suspects to elicit information, although no empirical data is available to draw such a conclusion. The prevalence of such a perception is unthinkable in a democracy like India. There are many dominant reasons like lack of quality education, socio-economic back ground of the personnel, inadequate training and bad working atmosphere to influence such behavior of the police. Some in the uniform are probably aware of the fact that torture is wrong, but to them it seems an easy way to get confessions, on which they rely to a large extent. The fear of torture and abuse is a big factor for the poor to avoid approaching the police.
Investments in Bhutan, India & Nepal a stock-taking
The regional partner of the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung, SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) captured the investment scenario in the region through their three publications each featuring Bangladesh, Pakistan and India (alongwith Bhutan and Nepal). In the series on Bhutan, India and Nepal, the report identifies some major constraints on Investments in these three countries and comes out with opportunities and challenges in important sectors like Tourism, Airports and Aviation, Telecommunications, IT and outsourcing, Energy, Health, Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical and the SME sector.
Investments in Pakistan: A stock taking
The regional partner of the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung, SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) captured the investment scenario in the region through their three publications each featuring Bangladesh, Pakistan and India (alongwith Bhutan and Nepal). On of the titles is 'Investments in Pakistan : A stock-taking. The report on Pakistan is indicative of Pakistan’s economy which continued to maintain its solid pace of expansion for the fourth year in a row in the fiscal year 2005-06 despite rising energy prices and wide spread damage caused by the earthquake of Oct 8, 2005.
Investments in Bangladesh: A stock taking
The regional partner of the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung, SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) captured the investment scenario in the region through their three publications each featuring Bangladesh, Pakistan and India (alongwith Bhutan and Nepal). One of the titles are 'Investments in Bangladesh: A stock taking'. The report on Bangladesh recognizes the growing potential of the country and its strategic location connecting South Asia to the South East Asia and ASEAN markets, it suggests that Bangladesh has the potential to be an entry port to the region, a potential small scale Singapore, for the region covering Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and eight north eastern Indian states.
Relevance of Economic Freedom in Development
On June 20th 2007, the Friedrich Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit together with its partner Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies (RGICS) organized a conference on the “Relevance of Economic Freedom for Development” in Chennai, hosted by the local partner TANSTIA-FNF Service Centre (TFSC). Third in the series (the first two previously being held in Chandigarh and Hyderabad), the seminar was organized to create awareness on the issue and importance of Economic Freedom in the development of the Indian economy. The seminar attracted almost 75 participants from the business community, academia, the bureaucracy and the media.
National Finance Commission
An Incomplete Guide to the Issues in Resource Distribution in Pakistan
Discussion Paper National Finance Commission: An Incomplete Guide to the Issues in Resource Distribution in Pakistan published in cooperation with Lead Pakistan The paper addresses the issue of resource distribution in Pakistan; and examines the distribution of fiscal and Natural resources between federal and provincial governments.
Stand on Your Own Feet
FNSt partner Business Development Services (BDS) launched their promotional brochure titled “Stand on Your Own Two Feet” in May 2007. The Brochure details the much in demand “Gainful Employment” programme, which targets the young adults in their formative years. Ms. Caroline Heun, the Second Secretary of the German Embassy in Sri Lanka was the Chief Guest at the official launch. The Head of the GtZ in Sri Lanka, Dr. Roland Steuerer and Member of Parliament Hon. Ravi Karunanayake too attended the official launch.
SPARC on Child Rights Issues
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| Group photograph |
Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNSt) partner organization, SPARC, Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child conducted a 2nd Training on “Child Rights and Child Protection Issues in Pakistan” for the university students from all over the country from 23rd to 25th June 2007 in Islamabad. The basic aim of the workshop was to make the target group aware of child rights, international and national laws, special skills to deal with violation of child rights and enable them to “Break the Silence”
Intensive workshop for Tibetan Local Assembly Members
Tibetans have come a long way since coming into exile in 1959. Escaping the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) atrocities in Tibet, about eighty thousand Tibetans sought refuge in India, Nepal and Bhutan, trying to learn a new way of life in a foreign but friendly country. Working as labourers, building roads in the Himalayan region to make a living, they have contributed in building the edifice of democracy for the Tibetan community in Exile, and for future Tibet.
Youth Leadership Training with a Difference
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| Group Photograph |
Irrespective of whether the Tibetan struggle will take a short or a long time to resolve, it is very important to inculcate the young to sustain the movement in the years to come. Also, irrespective of whether international support will wane or surge, the younger generation of Tibetans have to carry forward the cause of returning back to Tibet, where Tibetans will have the right to govern themselves under the framework of the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China.
Review Meeting of District Human Rights Monitors, PWTN-FNSt EU Project
A Seminar on assessing the performance of district human rights monitors (DHRM) and Project Cordination Meeting was organised in Coonor from 16th -20th April 2007 for the EU-FNSt-PWTN project on " Prevention of Police Torture".
SPARC Trains Trainers, Pakistan
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| Training the Trainers |
Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNSt) partner organization, SPARC, Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child conducted a special Master Training on “Child Rights and Child Protection Issues in Pakistan” for CRC Heads to convey the knowledge of child rights, international and national laws and special skills how to deal with violation of child rights.
National Finance Commission Award, Pakistan
FNSt & Lead Pakistan strive to create awareness about
National Finance Commission Award
Friedrich Naumann Stiftung (FNSt) Pakistan together with LEAD Pakistan organized a book launching ceremony of “National Finance Commission: An Incomplete Guide to the Issues in Resource Distribution in Pakistan” on 4th June 2007 in Islamabad.
Efficiency and Good Governance in Regulatory Bodies – need of the hour
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| Dr. Salman Shah |
Having in view the increasingly problems of services in the water, energy and telecom sector the International Institute of Islamic Economics (IIIE) of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) organized a seminar on “Policy Framework for Public Utilities Management”.
Pakistan IAF Alumni network becomes the FreedomGaters
For the past five years, the steadily growing network of Pakistani International Academy for Leadership, Gummersbach Alumni have been getting together annually to discuss ideas. At each of these annual meetings a need to more formally organize themselves and become a more “visible force for change” was expressed.
FNSt Partner conferred with the "Gwangju Prize for Human Rights 2007"
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| Dr. Raghuvanshi |
Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi has been awarded 2007
Gwangju Prize for Human Rights in recognition of his efforts in improving the state of human rights in India. Dr. Raghuvanshi is the State Director (Uttar Pradesh) of the
European Union and Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung support project on "Prevention of Torture in India: From Public Awareness to State Accountability".
Running a Successful Liberal Youth Organisation
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| Group photo |
A five day South Asian regional workshop on ‘Running a Successful Liberal Youth Organisation’ was organized by Liberal Youth South Asia (LYSA), supported by Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung.
'India-FAN' formed to develop Liberal Network
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| Group photo |
The Second FNF Alumni Meeting in India held in on 2007 has witnessed the formation of 'India-FNF Alumni Network' (IFAN) to serve the purpose of promoting a more liberal society in India.
'Regional Economic Integration an essential precondition for a peaceful South Asia’ says Dr. Gerhardt
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Talking to S. Asian
Business Leaders |
Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt, MP and Chairman of the Friedrich-Naumann-Foundation, underlined the importance of a functioning market economy for creation of a prosperous, open, peaceful South Asia, free from poverty and oppression.
Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt, Chairman FNF, Visits India
From its Regional Office South Asia in Delhi, Friedrich Naumann Foundation implements a broad spectrum of projects in the areas of market economy, rule of law, civic education and conflict prevention. Interactions with Project Partners, politicians, business leaders and security experts – the program of Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt was tight!
Memorial Lecture
On the 19th of January 2007, the second Chanaka Amaratunga Memorial Lecture was held in Colombo. Dr. Amaratunga had an international reputation as a liberal personality and an erudite speaker on liberalism.
Sagarica Delgoda, Country Representative FNSt in Sri Lanka, on information tour in Germany
What's really happening in Sri Lanka? How should the Germans react to the situation of escalating conflicts?
Seminars organized by Liberal Forum Pakistan for the upcoming general elections in Pakistan
As a political advocacy group, it will not be incorrect to state that FNSt’s partner Liberal Forum Pakistan is sensitive to the political pulse of the country.
An Inclusive World
In which the West, Islam and the Rest have a stake
The greatest challenge of the 21st century is for us to come together to discover our common identity, reaffirm and restore core human values, to appreciate our common history and to create a shared future.
THE ART OF ASKING
The Young Liberals and Democrats of Asia (YLDA) held their first international forum for 2007 in Colombo Sri Lanka. The programme was hosted by the Institute for Democracy and Leadership (IDL) and the Liberal Youth Guilds (LYGs) of Sri Lanka and sponsored by the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung.
SMED: Launching SME Policy Reforms to face the Challenges in the SAARC Region
Small & Medium Enterprise Developers (Project SMED) a joint project of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce & Industry in Sri Lanka (FCCISL) and the Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung (FNSt) brought out a publication titled “Challenges & Policy Reforms for SME development in SAARC Countries”.
“India-US Nuclear Agreement: Deal or No Deal?”
Year 2007 began with “India-US Nuclear Agreement: Deal or No Deal?” at the People’s Forum. This Forum was organized on 12th January 2007 at the amphitheatre of the India Habitat Centre in Delhi. The Forum invited three prominent persons on its panel namely Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Spokesperson Congress, Prakash Jadvekar, Spokesperson BJP and Brahma Chellaney, a security expert.
"Restructuring Relations between Western and Islamic Countries"
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Round Table being
held in the European
Parliament's building |
This was the topic of the 3rd International Roundtable on "Constructing Peace, Deconstructing Terror" which was held in Brussels on 26/27. November 2006, jointly organized by the Mumbai-based Strategic Foresight Group, the liberal fraction of the European Parliament "Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE)" and the Friedrich-Naumann-Foundation.
Pakistani Liberals visited Germany
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The delegation
with Dr. Gerhardt |
A delegation of seven liberal Pakistanis hailing from FNSt partners in Pakistan visited Germany on the invitation of the International Academy for Leadership (IAF). The delegation comprised of senior members of Liberal Forum Pakistan (LFP), Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) as well as a leading liberal journalist of the country.
International Conference of Autonomous Regions for Tibet
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HHDL with
Representatives of AR |
A unique International Conference of Autonomous Regions for Tibet (19-20 November 2006) was organised on the outskirts of Delhi by the Tibetan Parliamentary and Policy Research Centre (TPPRC) which is a joint project of the Friedrich-Naumann Stiftung (FNSt.) and the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile.
Economic Freedom Index: Its relevance for Economic Development
Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies, Rajiv Gandhi Foundation and the Friedrich-Naumann-Foundation jointly organized a discussion in Hyderabad on the issue of Economic Freedom Index and its relevance for Economic Development on the 23rd November 2006 together with local partners Indian Institute of Economics and the Federation of Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
“Our Judicial System: Is there a Third Umpire?”
Of the three organs of our society, the Executive, the Legislative and the Judiciary, our judiciary is an independent organ. However, recent spate of decisions by the court strongly indicates influence of a third party, especially when the defendant belongs to influential families.
Free Trade and Minimum State Intervention key ingredients of Regional Cooperation...
Mohamed Jaleel, Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Republic of Maldives emphasized the importance of Free Trade and Minimum State Intervention as the key ingredients of contribution to regional economic growth of South Asia.
Meeting of the FNSt Alumni in India
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| Alumni |
Muggy Friday afternoons may generally be better suited to a snooze and planning for the weekend ahead, but friends and colleagues of the Friedrich-Naumann-Foundation had other ideas up their sleeve on the 22nd September.
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