This site describes Croatia's land, people, economy, government and foreign affairs. It was helpful because it descibes in detail Croatia's place in the Former Yugoslavia and how Croatia survived independantly with the help of the UN.
"In Jan., 1992, after other European Community–brokered cease-fires had failed, a more stable truce was mediated by the United Nations, which in February sent in a peacekeeping forceS."
Background Notes on Countries of the World: Croatia; Oct2006, p1-6, 6p http://web.ebscohost.com/src/pdf?vid=8&hid=22&sid=b2f6066e-c238-4257-8b0b-dd464806f685%40sessionmgr7
This website displays Croatian history and detials of the country. It focuses on geography and government and the people of Croatia. In the "People of Croatia" section it discusses how the UN helped during a meditated cease-fire in 1992; it also discusses Croatias relationship to the UN and NATO and the EU. It talks about Croatia's formation of the ICTY ( International Criminal Tribunal of Yugoslavia).
" While Croatia has made progress on dealing with a number of post-war issues, the status of refugees displaced during the 1991-1994 war and resolution with Slovenia remain key issues influencing Croatia's relations with its neighbors and international community."
http://un.mfa.hr/?mh=150&mv=1205 Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integrations of the RC, "Candidature of the Republic of Croatia for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the term 2008/2009." 2006. http://un.mfa.hr/?mh=150&mv=1205 (accessed 4/19/07).
This website describes Croatia's desire to become a non-permanant member of the Security Council in the UN. Croatia believes that she would be a satisfactory member because she understands the concerns of small states, has extensive experience in the areas of post-conflict management and conflict prevention, is participating in the 12 UN peacekeeping missions, has had success in bridging the gap between relief and development, has never served on the Security Council, and believes the principle of equitable geographic rotation should apply.
" Croatia believes that the principle of equitable geographic rotation should apply."
Rogers, Leonard. “The Endangered Children of Northern Uganda.” House International Relations. Washington, DC. 26 Apr. 2006
This article is a primary source made by the Deputy Assistant Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development. This speech gives comprehensive information on the LRA problem in Uganda. He gives details on how the LRA is kidnapping children and using them as soldiers. He urges the international community to take action. He also mentions that the Ugandan government is mistreating its citizens as well.
“The Government of Uganda and the international community need to step up efforts to end the conflict, support the displaced as they remain in camps or as they voluntarily return home, and heal the physical and psychological wounds of this terrible tragedy.”
Smith, Chris. “The Endangered Children of Northern Uganda.” House International Relations. Washington, DC. 26 Apr. 2006
This speech is a prelude to the one above. It also discusses the problems of the LRA in Northern Uganda. However this one gives specific facts and figures such as 2,000,000 displaced in Northern Uganda and 20,000 children made to be soldier or slaves. The other one is more persuasive but this one holds concrete facts. Both are urging that the international community step in. He also states that this is a global problem and not completely centered on Uganda.
“Whatever the truth about the Government of Uganda`s war effort, it is certainly a fact that not enough is being done to safeguard the endangered children of northern Uganda.”
Maps 101, "Map of Democratic Republic of Congo." 2007.http://maps101.com/Application/Catalog/Product.aspx?cid=128&pid=1615 (accessed April 20, 2007).
This site gives some of the key information needed to accurately research Uganda. It shows a detailed map of the area surrounding Uganda and its predicament in terms of land and neighbors. Uganda is enclosed by several countries who have suffered from severe political unrest. This map gives insight to why it has been so difficult to regain stability in Uganda. This illustrates how Uganda must be being flooded by various refugees from different committees.
Gutierrez,Micheal. Paul Kagame. Great Neck Publishing, 7/1/2006.
This article is focuses on Paul Kagame’s role in the Rwandan Genocide of 1994. In 1993, the Rwandan Patriot Front and the Rwandan government signed a truce called the Arusha accords. This gave the Rwandan Patriot Front political rights in the Rwandan government, and opened the nation up to multi-party elections. But then the government blamed the RPF for the assassination of President Juvenal Habyarimana. After the assassination, the Hutu nationalists began killing all Tutsis. Within a span of three months, it was found that at least 800,000 Tutsis and Hutus that helped Tutsis were murdered in the worst genocide since the Holocaust.
“Kagame's small army of 15,000 to 20,000 boys and men quickly overran the Rwandan army of 40,000 well-armed soldiers.”
Unknown Author, "Justice on The Grass." Economist (20002):
This article is about the outlook for the justice system in Rwanda. They need this because they have very congested jails in the country. Rwanda still has 115,000 suspects in jail awaiting trial. They have an idea to try the genocide offenders in grassroots tribunals or gacaca courts.
“Suspects will be brought to the villages where they allegedly committed their crimes. Everyone who was there will testify, and a panel of 19 judges will rule.”
Edoho, Edoho Bassey. "Rwanda." Lands and Peoples. Grolier Online http://lp.grolier.com/cgi-bin/article?assetid=4045000 (accessed April 20, 2007).
This site talks about the history, people, economy, and the land of Rwanda. The thing I found useful was the History and the people. in the Section of the people it names the different types of people that are found in Rwanda. THe History section talks about the way Rwanda became a country, and the other main point is the genocide.
"Rwanda was first inhabited by Twa hunters and food gatherers. The Hutu came into the area between the 7th and 10th centuries. The Tutsi arrived in what is now Rwanda from somewhere in the north between the 14th and 16th centuries and developed a highly centralized kingdom."
May 18--PORT ARTHUR, Texas--Richard Vernon's small office at Gulf Copper & Manufacturing Corp. is decorated with map-sized photos of what the company is best known for: offshore oil rigs that now are in the Caribbean, off the coast of West Africa and one the company worked on in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. But Vernon, vice-president of the Port Arthur-based company, hopes the company's latest project it is doing in Port Arthur for a Canadian company the overhaul of two disassembled oil refining units that will be reassembled as Papua, New Guinea's first oil refinery will broaden Gulf Copper's image in the local marketplace.
Clausen, Christopher. "Port Arthur, Texas-Based Firm Hopes Oil Refinery Project Will Broaden Image." Tribune Business News (2002):
The small country of Papua New Guinea will soon have an oil refinery brought back to useable status. It will be their first, thus allowing them to control their own oil market. Normally, the country exports its crude oil to Australia to be refined and they buy their oil mainly from Singapore. This not only helps the country but also aids Gulf Copper and Manufacturing Corp. to expand their business in the trade. There have been stalls in the work but so far it is on track and will hopefully be completed in a timely fashion.
Reports on the damage done by a tidal wave in Papua New Guinea, near Australia, in July of 1998. Information on the area of Papua New Guinea; Direction in which the wave hit Papua New Guinea; Number of persons killed in the disaster; Details on the incident; Comments by resident of the area Paul Saroya.
"Tidal wave hits Papua New Guinea. (cover story)." News For You Vol. 46, no. Issue 29 (1998): p1, 1/4p.
Article shows the destructive tidal wave which struck Papua New Guinea and details of the damage.
“A crowd of soldiers dressed in camouflage gear rush towards the a stage set up for talks in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, Tuesday, March 20, 2001. Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Mekere Morauta was supposed to address the soldiers about defense reforms and failed to show up, causing the soldiers to tear the platform down and attack officials and journalists. Troops are refusing to return guns and ammunition they seized from their barracks last week.(AP Photo/Auri Eva/PNG Post-Courier)”
Stringer, Auri E. "Papua New Guinea Revolt." Associated Press Ping Post Courier (2001):
Text tells of an uprising in Papua New Guinea; gives an example of political unrest in the country.
Israel has a diversified economy with substantial government ownership and a rapidly developing high-tech sector. Poor in natural resources, Israel depends on imports of petroleum, coal, food, uncut diamonds, other production inputs, and military equipment. It also has received substantial direct economic aid from the United States, including approximately $1.2 billion per year since the mid-1970's, although that regular annual amount has been being tapered off by $120 million per year beginning in 1998. In 2006, direct economic aid from the US amounted to $240 million, or about 0.15% of Israel's GDP.
The Israeli Defense Force is among the most powerful and modern military forces in the world. It was founded May 26, 1948 after the establishment of the state of Israel "to protect the inhabitants of Israel and to combat all forms of terrorism which threaten the daily life." Also, it is used to protect the country of Israel of the constant battle over territory with Palestine. Israel's military contains all ages and these people have true dedication to their country. The amount of nationalism is incredibly strong and fascinating because it is unconditional.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is often claimed to be at the heart of the Arab-Israeli conflict, is an ongoing dispute between two peoples, Jewish Israelis and Arab Palestinians, that both claim the right to sovereignty over the Land of Israel/Palestine in whole or in part. Throughout history, there have been many conflicts in this area between peoples inhabiting it. This particular conflict started in the late 19th century, when Zionist Jews expressed their desire to create a modern state in their ancient homeland and began to settle in the land, then controlled by the Ottoman Empire.
This article explores the ways Egyptian pyramids were built more than 2,000 years ago. It talks about different theories such as the external ramp and crane theory and the internal ramp theory, both of which are supported by modern scholars. Scientists are looking for a way to test the internal ramp theory so that it can be confirmed.
Brier, Bob. [YEAR]. "How to Build a Pyramid." Archaeology 60, no. 3: 22. MAS Ultra - School Edition, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007).
2:
This article talked about the conflict that has become bigger between the government in Cairo and those who live in Sinai after the Sinai Peninsula was returned to Egypt. These problems include terrorist attacks, “promoted tourist resorts there at the expense of residents' land rights”, and discrimination. It is believed that “unless Cairo can change that perception, the Sinai will continue to breed radicalism and violence.”
2007. "Strife in Sinai." Atlantic Monthly (1072-7825) 299, no. 3: 36. MAS Ultra - School Edition, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007).
3:
This article talked about what what scientists are discovering by studying mummies. Their "remains...can teach scientists about ancient people—from their lifestyles to the diseases that struck them." This article explained what parts of mummies are studied and what they teach the scientists that are researching them.
Norlander, Britt. "Tales of the Dead4 63. (2006), http://go-passport.grolier.com/page?tn=/newsnow/feature.html&seq=3&type=0tdn&id=go-n20070122-3. (accessed April 21, 2007).
King, Warren. 2007. "The Hutch Part of Big Study of HIV Vaccine in S. Africa." Seattle Times, The (WA) . Newspaper Source, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007)
Summary: A new study has been launched about a promising vaccine for the HIV virus. It is being administered in 3,000 people in six countries, including five locations in South Africa. South Africa was a key location to run the trials because of its medical facilities, but also because over five million people in South Africa have the virus.
Quotes: “"We've not seen the levels of immune response in any other vaccines preceding this," said Dr. James Kublin of "The Hutch," who is helping to lead the project along with Dr. Glenda Gray, a researcher in Soweto, South Africa. "That's why we're so enthusiastic."”
“Scientists have been praising this latest experimental vaccine for more than two years, calling it the most promising yet. More than 100 preparations have been tested in animals and humans, but the virus mutates and is a difficult target.”
"Anti-pollution Demands Push Rhodium Ever Higher." Australian, The . Newspaper Source, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007).
Summary: Rhodium prices doubled in 2006, and are likely to go up another 26% in 2007. Most rhodium is mined in South Africa, and it’s demand has increased due to car makers complying with stricter pollution regulations. There is also increased demand because of glassmaking, LCD television screens, and its use in chemicals.
Quote: “The South African currency's 17 per cent decline over the past 12 months has encouraged development of new mining operations, while extraction of ore with higher rhodium content may lead to increased supply of the metal from the second half of next year, Salaria says.”
Jeremy said... 1. Belanger, Craig. "Our World: Cuba." Our World: Cuba 7p(2006) 1-7. 18 April 2007 2. The source is a basic overview of the aspects of Cuba such as history, government, culture, and agriculture. It also talks about how the there are no longer any remaining natives living in Cuba, because they were killed by the Spanish. It also points out the Cuban high points such as their education and universal health care system. One of the main portions of the article discusses the trade embargo placed on Cuba by the U.S. in 1962. 3. “The two most important facts of economic life in Cuba are the economic embargo placed on it in 1962 by the United States government, and the enormous economic losses it faced after the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1989 and 1990. It was to the Soviet Union that Cuba primarily turned for aid after the U.S. blockade went into effect. In addition, Cuba's vibrant black market is an unofficial yet stable aspect of the national economy.”
April 21, 2007 11:14 AM Jeremy said... 1. Belanger, Craig. "Our World: Cuba." Our World: Cuba 7p(2006) 1-7. 18 April 2007 2. The source is a basic overview of the aspects of Cuba such as history, government, culture, and agriculture. It also talks about how the there are no longer any remaining natives living in Cuba, because they were killed by the Spanish. It also points out the Cuban high points such as their education and universal health care system. One of the main portions of the article discusses the trade embargo placed on Cuba by the U.S. in 1962. 3. “The two most important facts of economic life in Cuba are the economic embargo placed on it in 1962 by the United States government, and the enormous economic losses it faced after the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1989 and 1990. It was to the Soviet Union that Cuba primarily turned for aid after the U.S. blockade went into effect. In addition, Cuba's vibrant black market is an unofficial yet stable aspect of the national economy.”
Mr. Ballou it wouldnt accept the website html.
April 21, 2007 11:14 AM Jeremy said... 1. Whelan, Carolyn. "Castro's Revenge." Fortune Vol. 155 Issue 64/2/2007 p26-28. 20 April 2007 2. This article presents the issue that the United States is not allowed to drill around the Cuban coast, while Spanish, Indian, and Norwegian companies are doing so. Senator Larry Craig plans to have Congress revisit the embargo put on Cuba doing the Cuban Missile Crisis. The Cuban commercial attaché in Washington D.C., Ernesto Plasencia, says that the American energy companies are welcome. 3. "This is not the 1960s, when the Kennedy administration was protecting the U.S. from a possible missile attack," says Charles Drevna, executive vice president of the National Petrochemical and Refiners Association, which represents more than 450 companies. "These resources will be developed and produced--the question is by whom. Prohibiting U.S. companies from developing resources [right offshore] is an Alice in Wonderland approach to policy that must be revisited."
April 21, 2007 11:15 AM Jeremy said... 1. Phillips, Charles. "April 17, 1961: Bay of Pigs Invasion.." American History Vol. 42 Issue 1,2pApril 2007 p!7-18. 19 April 2007 2. The article discusses the Bay of Pigs Invasion which happened on April 15,1961 and was given authorization by John F. Kennedy. It was an invasion of 1400 anti-Castro counterrevolutionary forces, who were backed by the CIA. The invasion was a complete failure because it quickly pushed Castro into a firm alliance with the Soviet Union. The Cubans took prisoner the counterrevolutionary invaders, which were not killed in the fighting. Fidel received 53 million dollars in ransom money of the families of many of the anti-Castro fighters. Of the ones not released 35 died in prison and some were not let out until 20 years later. Overall the operation was an ultimate failure. 3. "In 1959, after the revolution, the CIA began planning an invasion near Guantanamo Bay at a place called the Bay of Pigs. Although started under Eisenhower, it was his successor, John F. Kennedy, who authorized a covert invasion of Cuba by some 1,400 anti-Castro Cuban counterrevolutionaries, dubbed Brigade 2506 and supported by the CIA. The invasion kicked off on April 15, 1961, with the bombing of Cuba by what was reported to be defecting Cuban air force pilots—they were, in fact, in the hire of the CIA. Three Cuban military bases, two airfields and the Antonio Maceo Airport were attacked, killing 54 people. Two of the "defecting" B-26 bombers involved in the attack flew to Miami."
I accidently posted my posts on the 5th Period blog.
Source one: I originally found this article on Ebsco three nights ago, and when i tried the link again today, i didn't work. I found the exact same article on another page, off of www.ed1stop.com.
bad Ebsco link: http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=20&hid=102&sid=2064c903-7dbd-450d-a42e-3d59bdd20ff9%40sessionmgr102
good non-Ebsco link: http://www.maldivespoliticsonline.com/index.php?PHPSESSID=9c82271a1828baf4a9508245254d3e4f&topic=61.0;prev_next=prev
This article is about the tourism industry, economic conditions, and the current government of the Maldives. Tourism was extremely successful, but the 2004 tsunami temporarily put the government and the economy to a halt. Without tourism, fish is the only other profitable business the country has.
Between the hundreds of populated islands and the 300,000 people of the Maldives, there is an extensive telecommunication system called Dhiraagu. It’s an internet provider, as well as a mobile phone and land-line service. Now, more telecom markets are coming into the Maldives, increasing competition with Dhiraagu.
"The Maldives with its relatively small population of 300,000, could rightly claim an efficient, up to date national telecommunications system, despite it being spread of a large archipelago of islands."
This website tells just about everything there is to tell about the Maldives from economy to demographics to geography to government and much, much more.
Here's a quote about it's current environmental issues:
"Environment - current issues: depletion of freshwater aquifers threatens water supplies; global warming and sea level rise; coral reef bleaching"
O'Loughlin, Ed. "Big Arms Buildup -- in Botswana?." Christian Science Monitor, 7/15/98, Vol. 90 Issue 161, p6.
In 1998, when this article was written, Botswana was gaining some international attention for its sudden purchases of military arms. Several justifications for this military buildup were conjured, but the most prevalent belief was linked to a surfacing border dispute between Namibia and Botswana over two islands on the Chobe river. These lonely islands were valued by both countries as reliable water sources; thus, negotiations regarding them were slow and stubborn. Although the article notes that Botswana and its surrounding areas were currently at an unprecedented peace, water is was and continues to be a scarcity in Africa -- enough to spur a war.
"The United Nations warned that control of rivers, rather than oil, could spark many of the next century's wars.”
"Africa's Prize Democracy." Economist 373, no. 8400 (2004): p50-50. The 2004 general election in Botswana once again peacefully elected the Botswana Democratic Party as the majority of parliament's seats. Sworn back into office, the country's president, Festus Mogae, has promised to fight poverty and AIDS. Botswana's 1.8 million people are among the continent's wealthiest, after four decades of fast economic growth. International surveys suggest they are Africa's least corrupt. Though landlocked and thinly peopled, the country is rich in diamonds. Botswana's moderate, efficient, British-educated presidents have been honest. They have made sound policies, ensure that civil servants implement them and leave office dutifully when the constitution says so. Botswana's democratic success can also be attributed largely to the fact that nearly all ethnic races within the country agree and coexist peacefully.
“Botswana's biggest advantage over virtually every other African country is its ethnic homogeneity: it has no big tribal divisions.”
"Debt for nature agreements to conserve Botswana's forests." M2PressWIRE (2006).
The Bush administration recently signed the 11th debt-for-nature pact with Botswana. The agreement reduces Botswana's debt payments to the United States by over $8.3 million. These funds will instead be used to support grants that will conserve and restore important tropical forests throughout the country. The agreements were made possible through a contribution of nearly $7 million by the U.S. Government.
"This is the first Tropical Forest Conservation Act(TFCA) agreement concluded in Africa and most likely it won't be the last."
• Brooke, James. "Mongols Go From Camels to Jeeps and a Superhighway." New York Times, 7/15/2004,
Focuses on the construction of the Mongolian Millennium Highway in Nalaikh, Mongolia. Benefit of the Millennium Highway for the government; Terms of the project; Pavement of roads in the desert. • Rupen, Robert A. "Mongolia." Encyclopedia Americana. Grolier Online http://ea.grolier.com/cgi-bin/article?assetid=0274730-03 (accessed April 23, 2007.) The span of years between the proclamation of Genghis as khagan, or great khan, of the Mongols in 1206 and the period marked by the end of their Yüan dynasty in China in 1368, the Russian defeat of the Mongols at Kulikovo in 1380, and the death of Timur (Tamerlane) in 1405 includes the most impressive and important events of the famous Mongolian empire.
“The obvious weakening of Manchu control in China had led to new jockeyings for power that were aimed at redrawing the lines of force in Central Asia. Japan entered the Asian mainland, and secret treaties with Russia in 1907, 1912, and 1916 divided Mongolia into spheres of influence by which Outer Mongolia was assigned to Russia and eastern Inner Mongolia to Japan.”
• "Grant of $ 7.0 million to support renewable energy in rural Mongolia approved." December 20, 2006.http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nfh&AN=16PU1759462543&site=srck5-live (accessed April 23, 2007).
The World Bank has approved a grant of US$ 7.0 million for Mongolia through the International Development Association (IDA) Grant and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Trust Fund. This will help finance the Renewable Energy for Rural Electricity Access Project (REAP) which will assist the country to provide electricity for herders and rural people who do not have access to the main power grid. The initiative will be co-financed by the Government of Netherlands and the Government of Mongolia, taking the total effort to US $23million.
“Since its transition to a market-based economy in 1990, Mongolia has achieved macroeconomic stability and undertaken fundamental structural reforms”
The article presents an overview of the Syrian Arab Republic, or Syria, a country in the Middle East. General information; Details on the people and culture of the country, including information on the population, native people, health care, education, food, arts and entertainment, and holidays; Description of the geography and environment of the area, with focus on the topography, natural resources, plants and animals, and climate; Overview of the country's economy, industries, agriculture and tourism; Structure of the government; Fun facts.
“Recently, Syria has been singled out by the United States as a sponsor of terrorism, but such political rhetoric tends to obscure the broader picture. Like other Middle Eastern countries, Syria has a complex modern culture informed by a patchwork of diverse peoples, and includes some of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.”
Article 2
"Pelosi's trip to Syria plays into enemies' hands." USA Today . Middle Search Plus, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007).
This article examines Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi's controversial visit to Syria to meet with President Bashar al-Assad. The administration of U.S. President George W. Bush objected to the visit, claiming she was undermining foreign policy, despite being accompanied my members of Bush's party. The author believes increased diplomacy is necessary to overcome regional challenges.
“Assad allegedly has been supplying terrorist groups such as Islamic Jihad and Hamas with weapons and has been fueling hatred in Iraq against U.S. interests. There are some who believe Assad's hands are bloodied with the assassination of Lebanon's prime minister, and Pelosi does not seem to care.”
Article 3
"Syria." Encyclopedia Americana. Grolier Online http://ea.grolier.com/cgi-bin/article?assetid=0377350-01 (accessed April 23, 2007).
This article explains the large variety in the lands of Syria. One third of the country is desert; one third is potentially cultivable land, and one third is totally scanty. There is much contrast in these lands.
“As a whole, Syrian natural resources are minimal. Except for oil in the northeast and plentiful gypsum and basalt—and unconfirmed hopes of phosphates, lead, and copper—exploitable minerals as well as timber are almost completely lacking.”
Environmental Problems (copied summary) Rapid industrialization in Greece during the 1970s has resulted in heavy pollution. Especially air pollution, a serious environmental problem in Athens, where the government called 19 air pollution emergencies between 1982 and 1989. In addition to causing respiratory problems, the smog erodes marble and other stone and has pocked and discolored many of the country's priceless monuments and statues. Pollution monitoring stations have been installed throughout metropolitan Athens and in numerous other Greek cities. Recent efforts have reduced air pollution from heating and industry. Although motor vehicles must comply with emission standards, automobile exhaust, particularly from diesel-powered vehicles, is still a major pollution agent. Water pollution is also a problem, especially in the gulfs of Saronikos and Thermaikos, where untreated industrial wastes, sewage, and municipal wastewater are discharged.
(Personal summary) This article mainly talks about how the air pollution, that is taking place in Greece currently, affects Greeks’ health and also corrodes national monuments and buildings. This article explains the cause of the air pollution by two main factors; first, the augmentation of cars in a short time in concentrated areas and second, the poor organization and placement of factories and toxic producers in distributed area. This was because after WW2’s reconstruction, there was not a good traffic and industrial plan. This article also explains the effects of pollution. These include: acid rain, health problems, corrosion of national buildings and monuments (as mentioned before), and water quality, among others. The article also gives the specific things that make air pollution worsen as time goes by.
This article could help me in my paper, because it is definitely the most important current event in Greece in the present. It is a very serious one and it is not only happening in Greece but in other countries too. 3) Quotes:
“Athens's climatic conditions favor formation of photochemicals that trap pollutants close to the ground, partly because the reconstruction activity that began after World War II has proceeded without a comprehensive plan for traffic and industrial location.”
“More than half the total vehicles in Greece are in the Athens and Thessaloniki areas, and their number doubled between 1983 and 1992.”
“Water pollution has likewise become a serious problem because of industrialization and development policies. Greece has shared in the general deterioration of water quality in the Mediterranean Sea in recent decades. In addition, Greece has drained many lakes completely to generate hydroelectric power or to expand agricultural land. Several animal species have disappeared from Greece as a result of habitat alteration caused by this process.”
General Environmental Characteristics of Greece (copied summary)
Over the last century, and especially after the 1960s, a significant move of population toward the coastal areas took place as these areas experienced increased economic development, mainly through tourism, industry, transport, and agriculture. This expansion and intensification of economic development activities has increased environmental problems and threats to Greece's wildlife, leading to a considerable decrease in the number of many species. The most serious threats for the fauna are draining of wetlands, extensive tree cutting, land clearing due to forest fires, development of coastal housing and tourist installations, and construction on mountains. Increased emissions of various kinds of pollutants and pollution of air, water, and soil have also been recognized as significant problems.
(Personal summary)
This article shows the immense variety of flora and fauna of Greece and it tells us how humans have destroyed it in noticeable amounts. It gives good facts and statistics. It describes pollution of air, water, and soil. It also contains the history of pollution in Greece; showing us when it started to affect nature and how it did do. In sections it describes agriculture, wastes, air pollution, and marine pollution and how they contribute to the damage of the ecosystem. It gives strong reasons and it seems very reliable because it comes from the organization Chemistry International and these articles are written by professionals. In my research I could easily incorporate the magnificent data that tells us the why, when, what, and where of pollution.
3) Quotes
“Thermaikos Gulf is actually heavily polluted by sewage from Thessaloniki and by industrial effluents from about 250 factories. The sewage waters are estimated at 150 000 m3/d, of which only 30% are treated.”
“Intensive agriculture, farming, and municipal wastes are the main causes for the observation of red tides along Greek coasts and for eutrophication of Greek lakes.” “River outflow has been significantly reduced during the last 20 years because of the construction of hydroelectric dams and the establishment of irrigation systems. Irrigated land has almost doubled in the period 1970 - 1990; it is now about 30% of the total. The reduction of the sediment load of the rivers leads to increased beach erosion, to loss of deltaic environments and wetlands, and to changes in offshore profile and shelf transport processes.”
"IncommunicadoEconomist 375. 8424 (2005), 34-34, http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=4&hid=17&sid=ff24dba6-209c-490a-97fa-c0953471e7ef%40sessionmgr8. (accessed April 19, 2007).
Abstract: This article focuses on governance in the country of Belize. For much of the past fortnight, Belize, a small English-speaking country in Central America, was technophobe heaven. Phones, Internet and cash machines stopped working for days and power was briefly cut. The prime minister, Said Musa, blamed saboteurs. Phones were more or less working again this week. But the respite may be brief. Belize is struggling with a public debt as big as its Gross Domestic Product. Much of it falls due this year. Most Belizeans are not keen to make sacrifices and believe that Musa has landed the country in its present mess after an inquiry into the Social Security Board learned of public money being lent unwisely to well-connected businessmen.
Quote: Belize is struggling with a public debt as big as its GDP. Much of it falls due this year. The country's credit rating has plunged, so new borrowing is onerous.
Abstract: The article reports on the assessment of the journal "New Internationalist" on the politics and government of Belize. According to the journal, the country has a functioning and lively parliamentary democracy, with constitutional safeguards for the freedom of speech, press, and association. The politics is dominated by the United Democratic Party and the Peoples United Party.
Quote: Despite the natural beauty there are growing social pressures - among the problems being tackled by a government heavily reliant on external help are poverty, the highest rate of HIV infection in Central America and violent street crime associated with gang culture.
Abstract: The article discusses the experience of Heath Bentley, a high school student from Flagler County, Florida, in an archaeological expedition at Cahal Pech in Belize.
Quote: Cahal Pech was a major classic Maya center that probably was home to as many as 15,000 people at its height
“Deep in India’s Northeast” 12-17-04 http://maps101.com/Application/GITN/View.aspx?articleID=752
Northeast India is isolated from the rest of the world. Bangladesh cuts Northeast India off from the larger part of the country. It’s considered a “backwater,” for physical and cultural reasons. The region is very wet with over 400 inches of rain a year. The main population of people there are tribal groups. Most of the people speak Indo-Aryan. Many rebel groups from the Northeast do not agree with the Indian government and make many terrorist attacks.
“The Northeast's tribal population is often at odds with Indian officials and its army. Several rebel groups arose out of dissatisfaction. Three rebel groups-The National Socialist Council of Nagaland, the United Liberation Front of Assam and the National Democratic Front of Bodoland-have come under pressure from the Indian Army.”
Surowiecki, James “India’s Skills Famine” New Yorker 4/16/07 54-54. http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=4&hid=13&sid=daa907d5 India’s economics have changed drastically as the country has become a high-powered center for information technology. Though India has one of the youngest workforces, a study showed this year’s salaries for skilled workers will rise fourteen and a half percent. Just ten percent of Indians get any kind of postsecondary education. India has over three hundred universities but only two are among the top one hundred in the world. At least thirty percent of India’s population is illiterate. Every dollar India puts into higher education creates value for the economy as a whole. India was once considered to be overeducated with too many engineers. Between 1985 and 1997, the number of teachers in India fell, as more students became enrolled in high school and college. In India, over three hundred million people live on a dollar a day
“Education will be all the more important for India’s well-being; the earlier generation of so-called Asian Tigers depended heavily on manufacturing, but India’s focus on services and technology will require a more skilled and educated workforce.”
Meredith, Robyn “Why Globalization is Good” Forbes 4/16/07 64-68. http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=3&hid=13&sid106
There are many benefits of globalization. In the next eight years, about 1 billion people across Asia will become part of the middle class from a lower class. About seventy-seven percent of Indians live on two dollars a day or less. Foreign companies have invested forty-eight billion in India since 1991. India is creating free trade zones, like those in China to promote exports of software, auto parts, and more. Many western restaurants have moved in such as Domino’s, Ruby Tuesday’s, and McDonald’s. McDonald’s serves veggie burgers in the land where cattle are sacred to all.
“In the 1980s, people waited five years to buy a scooter and cars were only for the rich. "Since we've liberated the economy, lots of companies have started coming into India," says Kutwal. "People couldn't afford cars then. Now the buying power is coming."
17 comments:
http://www.bartleby.com/65/cr/Croatia.html
This site describes Croatia's land, people, economy, government and foreign affairs. It was helpful because it descibes in detail Croatia's place in the Former Yugoslavia and how Croatia survived independantly with the help of the UN.
"In Jan., 1992, after other European Community–brokered cease-fires had failed, a more stable truce was mediated by the United Nations, which in February sent in a peacekeeping forceS."
Background Notes on Countries of the World: Croatia; Oct2006, p1-6, 6p
http://web.ebscohost.com/src/pdf?vid=8&hid=22&sid=b2f6066e-c238-4257-8b0b-dd464806f685%40sessionmgr7
This website displays Croatian history and detials of the country. It focuses on geography and government and the people of Croatia. In the "People of Croatia" section it discusses how the UN helped during a meditated cease-fire in 1992; it also discusses Croatias relationship to the UN and NATO and the EU. It talks about Croatia's formation of the ICTY ( International Criminal Tribunal of Yugoslavia).
" While Croatia has made progress on dealing with a number of post-war issues, the status of refugees displaced during the 1991-1994 war and resolution with Slovenia remain key issues influencing Croatia's relations with its neighbors and international community."
http://un.mfa.hr/?mh=150&mv=1205
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integrations of the RC, "Candidature of the Republic of Croatia for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the term 2008/2009." 2006. http://un.mfa.hr/?mh=150&mv=1205 (accessed 4/19/07).
This website describes Croatia's desire to become a non-permanant member of the Security Council in the UN. Croatia believes that she would be a satisfactory member because she understands the concerns of small states, has extensive experience in the areas of post-conflict management and conflict prevention, is participating in the 12 UN peacekeeping missions, has had success in bridging the gap between relief and development, has never served on the Security Council, and believes the principle of equitable geographic rotation should apply.
" Croatia believes that the principle of equitable geographic rotation should apply."
whoops.. previous comment was left by natasha..sorry
Rogers, Leonard. “The Endangered Children of Northern Uganda.” House International Relations. Washington, DC. 26 Apr. 2006
This article is a primary source made by the Deputy Assistant Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development. This speech gives comprehensive information on the LRA problem in Uganda. He gives details on how the LRA is kidnapping children and using them as soldiers. He urges the international community to take action. He also mentions that the Ugandan government is mistreating its citizens as well.
“The Government of Uganda and the international community need to step up efforts to end the conflict, support the displaced as they remain in camps or as they voluntarily return home, and heal the physical and psychological wounds of this terrible tragedy.”
Smith, Chris. “The Endangered Children of Northern Uganda.” House International Relations. Washington, DC. 26 Apr. 2006
This speech is a prelude to the one above. It also discusses the problems of the LRA in Northern Uganda. However this one gives specific facts and figures such as 2,000,000 displaced in Northern Uganda and 20,000 children made to be soldier or slaves. The other one is more persuasive but this one holds concrete facts. Both are urging that the international community step in. He also states that this is a global problem and not completely centered on Uganda.
“Whatever the truth about the Government of Uganda`s war effort, it is certainly a fact that not enough is being done to safeguard the endangered children of northern Uganda.”
Maps 101, "Map of Democratic Republic of Congo." 2007.http://maps101.com/Application/Catalog/Product.aspx?cid=128&pid=1615 (accessed April 20, 2007).
This site gives some of the key information needed to accurately research Uganda. It shows a detailed map of the area surrounding Uganda and its predicament in terms of land and neighbors. Uganda is enclosed by several countries who have suffered from severe political unrest. This map gives insight to why it has been so difficult to regain stability in Uganda. This illustrates how Uganda must be being flooded by various refugees from different committees.
As it is a map there are no quotes.
Katerina
Gutierrez,Micheal. Paul Kagame. Great Neck Publishing, 7/1/2006.
This article is focuses on Paul Kagame’s role in the Rwandan Genocide of 1994. In 1993, the Rwandan Patriot Front and the Rwandan government signed a truce called the Arusha accords. This gave the Rwandan Patriot Front political rights in the Rwandan government, and opened the nation up to multi-party elections. But then the government blamed the RPF for the assassination of President Juvenal Habyarimana. After the assassination, the Hutu nationalists began killing all Tutsis. Within a span of three months, it was found that at least 800,000 Tutsis and Hutus that helped Tutsis were murdered in the worst genocide since the Holocaust.
“Kagame's small army of 15,000 to 20,000 boys and men quickly overran the Rwandan army of 40,000 well-armed soldiers.”
Unknown Author, "Justice on The Grass." Economist (20002):
This article is about the outlook for the justice system in Rwanda. They need this because they have very congested jails in the country. Rwanda still has 115,000 suspects in jail awaiting trial. They have an idea to try the genocide offenders in grassroots tribunals or gacaca courts.
“Suspects will be brought to the villages where they allegedly committed their crimes. Everyone who was there will testify, and a panel of 19 judges will rule.”
Edoho, Edoho Bassey. "Rwanda." Lands and Peoples. Grolier Online http://lp.grolier.com/cgi-bin/article?assetid=4045000 (accessed April 20, 2007).
This site talks about the history, people, economy, and the land of Rwanda. The thing I found useful was the History and the people. in the Section of the people it names the different types of people that are found in Rwanda. THe History section talks about the way Rwanda became a country, and the other main point is the genocide.
"Rwanda was first inhabited by Twa hunters and food gatherers. The Hutu came into the area between the 7th and 10th centuries. The Tutsi arrived in what is now Rwanda from somewhere in the north between the 14th and 16th centuries and developed a highly centralized kingdom."
This is Colton Sorry!!
Papua New Guinea
May 18--PORT ARTHUR, Texas--Richard Vernon's small office at Gulf Copper & Manufacturing Corp. is decorated with map-sized photos of what the company is best known for: offshore oil rigs that now are in the Caribbean, off the coast of West Africa and one the company worked on in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
But Vernon, vice-president of the Port Arthur-based company, hopes the company's latest project it is doing in Port Arthur for a Canadian company the overhaul of two disassembled oil refining units that will be reassembled as Papua, New Guinea's first oil refinery will broaden Gulf Copper's image in the local marketplace.
Clausen, Christopher. "Port Arthur, Texas-Based Firm Hopes Oil Refinery Project Will Broaden Image." Tribune Business News (2002):
The small country of Papua New Guinea will soon have an oil refinery brought back to useable status. It will be their first, thus allowing them to control their own oil market. Normally, the country exports its crude oil to Australia to be refined and they buy their oil mainly from Singapore. This not only helps the country but also aids Gulf Copper and Manufacturing Corp. to expand their business in the trade. There have been stalls in the work but so far it is on track and will hopefully be completed in a timely fashion.
Reports on the damage done by a tidal wave in Papua New Guinea, near Australia, in July of 1998. Information on the area of Papua New Guinea; Direction in which the wave hit Papua New Guinea; Number of persons killed in the disaster; Details on the incident; Comments by resident of the area Paul Saroya.
"Tidal wave hits Papua New Guinea. (cover story)." News For You Vol. 46, no. Issue 29 (1998): p1, 1/4p.
Article shows the destructive tidal wave which struck Papua New Guinea and details of the damage.
“A crowd of soldiers dressed in camouflage gear rush towards the a stage set up for talks in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, Tuesday, March 20, 2001. Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Mekere Morauta was supposed to address the soldiers about defense reforms and failed to show up, causing the soldiers to tear the platform down and attack officials and journalists. Troops are refusing to return guns and ammunition they seized from their barracks last week.(AP Photo/Auri Eva/PNG Post-Courier)”
Stringer, Auri E. "Papua New Guinea Revolt." Associated Press Ping Post Courier (2001):
Text tells of an uprising in Papua New Guinea; gives an example of political unrest in the country.
Israel has a diversified economy with substantial government ownership and a rapidly developing high-tech sector. Poor in natural resources, Israel depends on imports of petroleum, coal, food, uncut diamonds, other production inputs, and military equipment. It also has received substantial direct economic aid from the United States, including approximately $1.2 billion per year since the mid-1970's, although that regular annual amount has been being tapered off by $120 million per year beginning in 1998. In 2006, direct economic aid from the US amounted to $240 million, or about 0.15% of Israel's GDP.
The Israeli Defense Force is among the most powerful and modern military forces in the world. It was founded May 26, 1948 after the establishment of the state of Israel "to protect the inhabitants of Israel and to combat all forms of terrorism which threaten the daily life." Also, it is used to protect the country of Israel of the constant battle over territory with Palestine. Israel's military contains all ages and these people have true dedication to their country. The amount of nationalism is incredibly strong and fascinating because it is unconditional.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is often claimed to be at the heart of the Arab-Israeli conflict, is an ongoing dispute between two peoples, Jewish Israelis and Arab Palestinians, that both claim the right to sovereignty over the Land of Israel/Palestine in whole or in part. Throughout history, there have been many conflicts in this area between peoples inhabiting it. This particular conflict started in the late 19th century, when Zionist Jews expressed their desire to create a modern state in their ancient homeland and began to settle in the land, then controlled by the Ottoman Empire.
CAELY BRANDON
1:
This article explores the ways Egyptian pyramids were built more than 2,000 years ago. It talks about different theories such as the external ramp and crane theory and the internal ramp theory, both of which are supported by modern scholars. Scientists are looking for a way to test the internal ramp theory so that it can be confirmed.
Brier, Bob. [YEAR]. "How to Build a Pyramid." Archaeology 60, no. 3: 22. MAS Ultra - School Edition, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007).
2:
This article talked about the conflict that has become bigger between the government in Cairo and those who live in Sinai after the Sinai Peninsula was returned to Egypt. These problems include terrorist attacks, “promoted tourist resorts there at the expense of residents' land rights”, and discrimination. It is believed that “unless Cairo can change that perception, the Sinai will continue to breed radicalism and violence.”
2007. "Strife in Sinai." Atlantic Monthly (1072-7825) 299, no. 3: 36. MAS Ultra - School Edition, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007).
3:
This article talked about what what scientists are discovering by studying mummies. Their "remains...can teach scientists about ancient people—from their lifestyles to the diseases that struck them." This article explained what parts of mummies are studied and what they teach the scientists that are researching them.
Norlander, Britt. "Tales of the Dead4 63. (2006), http://go-passport.grolier.com/page?tn=/newsnow/feature.html&seq=3&type=0tdn&id=go-n20070122-3. (accessed April 21, 2007).
King, Warren. 2007. "The Hutch Part of Big Study of HIV Vaccine in S. Africa." Seattle Times, The (WA) . Newspaper Source, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007)
Summary:
A new study has been launched about a promising vaccine for the HIV virus. It is being administered in 3,000 people in six countries, including five locations in South Africa. South Africa was a key location to run the trials because of its medical facilities, but also because over five million people in South Africa have the virus.
Quotes:
“"We've not seen the levels of immune response in any other vaccines preceding this," said Dr. James Kublin of "The Hutch," who is helping to lead the project along with Dr. Glenda Gray, a researcher in Soweto, South Africa. "That's why we're so enthusiastic."”
“Scientists have been praising this latest experimental vaccine for more than two years, calling it the most promising yet. More than 100 preparations have been tested in animals and humans, but the virus mutates and is a difficult target.”
"Anti-pollution Demands Push Rhodium Ever Higher." Australian, The . Newspaper Source, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007).
Summary:
Rhodium prices doubled in 2006, and are likely to go up another 26% in 2007. Most rhodium is mined in South Africa, and it’s demand has increased due to car makers complying with stricter pollution regulations. There is also increased demand because of glassmaking, LCD television screens, and its use in chemicals.
Quote:
“The South African currency's 17 per cent decline over the past 12 months has encouraged development of new mining operations, while extraction of ore with higher rhodium content may lead to increased supply of the metal from the second half of next year, Salaria says.”
Jeremy said...
1. Belanger, Craig. "Our World: Cuba." Our World: Cuba 7p(2006) 1-7. 18 April 2007
2. The source is a basic overview of the aspects of Cuba such as history, government, culture, and agriculture. It also talks about how the there are no longer any remaining natives living in Cuba, because they were killed by the Spanish. It also points out the Cuban high points such as their education and universal health care system. One of the main portions of the article discusses the trade embargo placed on Cuba by the U.S. in 1962.
3. “The two most important facts of economic life in Cuba are the economic embargo placed on it in 1962 by the United States government, and the enormous economic losses it faced after the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1989 and 1990. It was to the Soviet Union that Cuba primarily turned for aid after the U.S. blockade went into effect. In addition, Cuba's vibrant black market is an unofficial yet stable aspect of the national economy.”
April 21, 2007 11:14 AM
Jeremy said...
1. Belanger, Craig. "Our World: Cuba." Our World: Cuba 7p(2006) 1-7. 18 April 2007
2. The source is a basic overview of the aspects of Cuba such as history, government, culture, and agriculture. It also talks about how the there are no longer any remaining natives living in Cuba, because they were killed by the Spanish. It also points out the Cuban high points such as their education and universal health care system. One of the main portions of the article discusses the trade embargo placed on Cuba by the U.S. in 1962.
3. “The two most important facts of economic life in Cuba are the economic embargo placed on it in 1962 by the United States government, and the enormous economic losses it faced after the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1989 and 1990. It was to the Soviet Union that Cuba primarily turned for aid after the U.S. blockade went into effect. In addition, Cuba's vibrant black market is an unofficial yet stable aspect of the national economy.”
Mr. Ballou it wouldnt accept the website html.
April 21, 2007 11:14 AM
Jeremy said...
1. Whelan, Carolyn. "Castro's Revenge." Fortune Vol. 155 Issue 64/2/2007 p26-28. 20 April 2007
2. This article presents the issue that the United States is not allowed to drill around the Cuban coast, while Spanish, Indian, and Norwegian companies are doing so. Senator Larry Craig plans to have Congress revisit the embargo put on Cuba doing the Cuban Missile Crisis. The Cuban commercial attaché in Washington D.C., Ernesto Plasencia, says that the American energy companies are welcome.
3. "This is not the 1960s, when the Kennedy administration was protecting the U.S. from a possible missile attack," says Charles Drevna, executive vice president of the National Petrochemical and Refiners Association, which represents more than 450 companies. "These resources will be developed and produced--the question is by whom. Prohibiting U.S. companies from developing resources [right offshore] is an Alice in Wonderland approach to policy that must be revisited."
April 21, 2007 11:15 AM
Jeremy said...
1. Phillips, Charles. "April 17, 1961: Bay of Pigs Invasion.." American History Vol. 42 Issue 1,2pApril 2007 p!7-18. 19 April 2007
2. The article discusses the Bay of Pigs Invasion which happened on April 15,1961 and was given authorization by John F. Kennedy. It was an invasion of 1400 anti-Castro counterrevolutionary forces, who were backed by the CIA. The invasion was a complete failure because it quickly pushed Castro into a firm alliance with the Soviet Union. The Cubans took prisoner the counterrevolutionary invaders, which were not killed in the fighting. Fidel received 53 million dollars in ransom money of the families of many of the anti-Castro fighters. Of the ones not released 35 died in prison and some were not let out until 20 years later. Overall the operation was an ultimate failure.
3. "In 1959, after the revolution, the CIA began planning an invasion near Guantanamo Bay at a place called the Bay of Pigs. Although started under Eisenhower, it was his successor, John F. Kennedy, who authorized a covert invasion of Cuba by some 1,400 anti-Castro Cuban counterrevolutionaries, dubbed Brigade 2506 and supported by the CIA. The invasion kicked off on April 15, 1961, with the bombing of Cuba by what was reported to be defecting Cuban air force pilots—they were, in fact, in the hire of the CIA. Three Cuban military bases, two airfields and the Antonio Maceo Airport were attacked, killing 54 people. Two of the "defecting" B-26 bombers involved in the attack flew to Miami."
I accidently posted my posts on the 5th Period blog.
The Maldives
Source one: I originally found this article on Ebsco three nights ago, and when i tried the link again today, i didn't work. I found the exact same article on another page, off of www.ed1stop.com.
bad Ebsco link: http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=20&hid=102&sid=2064c903-7dbd-450d-a42e-3d59bdd20ff9%40sessionmgr102
good non-Ebsco link: http://www.maldivespoliticsonline.com/index.php?PHPSESSID=9c82271a1828baf4a9508245254d3e4f&topic=61.0;prev_next=prev
This article is about the tourism industry, economic conditions, and the current government of the Maldives. Tourism was extremely successful, but the 2004 tsunami temporarily put the government and the economy to a halt. Without tourism, fish is the only other profitable business the country has.
"We make nothing in the Maldives except fish."
Source two:
http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reportinfo.asp?report_id=332498
Between the hundreds of populated islands and the 300,000 people of the Maldives, there is an extensive telecommunication system called Dhiraagu. It’s an internet provider, as well as a mobile phone and land-line service. Now, more telecom markets are coming into the Maldives, increasing competition with Dhiraagu.
"The Maldives with its relatively small population of 300,000, could rightly claim an efficient, up to date national telecommunications system, despite it being spread of a large archipelago of islands."
Source three: http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=8&hid=105&sid=b9a3abf6-ddba-4ac4-a4f6-db55aedd3a2f%40sessionmgr104
This website tells just about everything there is to tell about the Maldives from economy to demographics to geography to government and much, much more.
Here's a quote about it's current environmental issues:
"Environment - current issues:
depletion of freshwater aquifers threatens water supplies; global
warming and sea level rise; coral reef bleaching"
O'Loughlin, Ed. "Big Arms Buildup -- in Botswana?." Christian Science Monitor, 7/15/98, Vol. 90 Issue 161, p6.
In 1998, when this article was written, Botswana was gaining some international attention for its sudden purchases of military arms. Several justifications for this military buildup were conjured, but the most prevalent belief was linked to a surfacing border dispute between Namibia and Botswana over two islands on the Chobe river. These lonely islands were valued by both countries as reliable water sources; thus, negotiations regarding them were slow and stubborn. Although the article notes that Botswana and its surrounding areas were currently at an unprecedented peace, water is was and continues to be a scarcity in Africa -- enough to spur a war.
"The United Nations warned that control of rivers, rather than oil, could spark many of the next century's wars.”
"Africa's Prize Democracy." Economist 373, no. 8400 (2004): p50-50.
The 2004 general election in Botswana once again peacefully elected the Botswana Democratic Party as the majority of parliament's seats. Sworn back into office, the country's president, Festus Mogae, has promised to fight poverty and AIDS. Botswana's 1.8
million people are among the continent's wealthiest, after four decades of fast economic growth. International surveys suggest they are Africa's least corrupt.
Though landlocked and thinly peopled, the country is rich in diamonds. Botswana's moderate, efficient, British-educated presidents have been honest. They have made sound policies, ensure that civil servants implement them and leave office dutifully when the constitution says so. Botswana's democratic success can also be attributed largely to the fact that nearly all ethnic races within the country agree and coexist peacefully.
“Botswana's biggest advantage over virtually every other African country is its ethnic homogeneity: it has no big tribal divisions.”
"Debt for nature agreements to conserve Botswana's forests." M2PressWIRE (2006).
The Bush administration recently signed the 11th debt-for-nature pact with Botswana. The agreement reduces Botswana's debt payments
to the United States by over $8.3 million. These funds will instead be used to support grants that will conserve and restore important tropical forests throughout the
country. The agreements were made possible through a contribution of nearly $7 million by the U.S. Government.
"This is the first Tropical Forest Conservation Act(TFCA) agreement concluded in Africa and most likely it won't be the last."
yeeee
• Brooke, James. "Mongols Go From Camels to Jeeps and a Superhighway." New York Times, 7/15/2004,
Focuses on the construction of the Mongolian Millennium Highway in Nalaikh, Mongolia. Benefit of the Millennium Highway for the government; Terms of the project; Pavement of roads in the desert.
• Rupen, Robert A. "Mongolia." Encyclopedia Americana. Grolier Online http://ea.grolier.com/cgi-bin/article?assetid=0274730-03 (accessed April 23, 2007.)
The span of years between the proclamation of Genghis as khagan, or great khan, of the Mongols in 1206 and the period marked by the end of their Yüan dynasty in China in 1368, the Russian defeat of the Mongols at Kulikovo in 1380, and the death of Timur (Tamerlane) in 1405 includes the most impressive and important events of the famous Mongolian empire.
“The obvious weakening of Manchu control in China had led to new jockeyings for power that were aimed at redrawing the lines of force in Central Asia. Japan entered the Asian mainland, and secret treaties with Russia in 1907, 1912, and 1916 divided Mongolia into spheres of influence by which Outer Mongolia was assigned to Russia and eastern Inner Mongolia to Japan.”
• "Grant of $ 7.0 million to support renewable energy in rural Mongolia approved." December 20, 2006.http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nfh&AN=16PU1759462543&site=srck5-live (accessed April 23, 2007).
The World Bank has approved a grant of US$ 7.0 million for Mongolia through the International Development Association (IDA) Grant and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Trust Fund. This will help finance the Renewable Energy for Rural Electricity Access Project (REAP) which will assist the country to provide electricity for herders and rural people who do not have access to the main power grid. The initiative will be co-financed by the Government of Netherlands and the Government of Mongolia, taking the total effort to US $23million.
“Since its transition to a market-based economy in 1990, Mongolia has achieved macroeconomic stability and undertaken fundamental structural reforms”
Article 1
Aliprandini , Michael. "Syria." Student Research Center. 18 Apr 2007. http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=8&hid=108&sid=6929af8a-bb18-49a2-882c-bb84f4fff7b3%40sessionmgr8.
The article presents an overview of the Syrian Arab Republic, or Syria, a country in the Middle East. General information; Details on the people and culture of the country, including information on the population, native people, health care, education, food, arts and entertainment, and holidays; Description of the geography and environment of the area, with focus on the topography, natural resources, plants and animals, and climate; Overview of the country's economy, industries, agriculture and tourism; Structure of the government; Fun facts.
“Recently, Syria has been singled out by the United States as a sponsor of terrorism, but such political rhetoric tends to obscure the broader picture. Like other Middle Eastern countries, Syria has a complex modern culture informed by a patchwork of diverse peoples, and includes some of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.”
Article 2
"Pelosi's trip to Syria plays into enemies' hands." USA Today . Middle Search Plus, EBSCOhost (accessed April 19, 2007).
This article examines Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi's controversial visit to Syria to meet with President Bashar al-Assad. The administration of U.S. President George W. Bush objected to the visit, claiming she was undermining foreign policy, despite being accompanied my members of Bush's party. The author believes increased diplomacy is necessary to overcome regional challenges.
“Assad allegedly has been supplying terrorist groups such as Islamic Jihad and Hamas with weapons and has been fueling hatred in Iraq against U.S. interests. There are some who believe Assad's hands are bloodied with the assassination of Lebanon's prime minister, and Pelosi does not seem to care.”
Article 3
"Syria." Encyclopedia Americana. Grolier Online http://ea.grolier.com/cgi-bin/article?assetid=0377350-01 (accessed April 23, 2007).
This article explains the large variety in the lands of Syria. One third of the country is desert; one third is potentially cultivable land, and one third is totally scanty. There is much contrast in these lands.
“As a whole, Syrian natural resources are minimal. Except for oil in the northeast and plentiful gypsum and basalt—and unconfirmed hopes of phosphates, lead, and copper—exploitable minerals as well as timber are almost completely lacking.”
Salendres, Jean Pierre
4/18/07
Annotated Search for Country Case
1) Citation:
"Pollution Problems." http://greece.russiansabroad.com/country_page.aspx?page=125 (accessed 4/18/07).
2) Summary
Environmental Problems (copied summary)
Rapid industrialization in Greece during the 1970s has resulted in heavy pollution. Especially air pollution, a serious environmental problem in Athens, where the government called 19 air pollution emergencies between 1982 and 1989. In addition to causing respiratory problems, the smog erodes marble and other stone and has pocked and discolored many of the country's priceless monuments and statues. Pollution monitoring stations have been installed throughout metropolitan Athens and in numerous other Greek cities. Recent efforts have reduced air pollution from heating and industry. Although motor vehicles must comply with emission standards, automobile exhaust, particularly from diesel-powered vehicles, is still a major pollution agent. Water pollution is also a problem, especially in the gulfs of Saronikos and Thermaikos, where untreated industrial wastes, sewage, and municipal wastewater are discharged.
(Personal summary)
This article mainly talks about how the air pollution, that is taking place in Greece currently, affects Greeks’ health and also corrodes national monuments and buildings. This article explains the cause of the air pollution by two main factors; first, the augmentation of cars in a short time in concentrated areas and second, the poor organization and placement of factories and toxic producers in distributed area. This was because after WW2’s reconstruction, there was not a good traffic and industrial plan. This article also explains the effects of pollution. These include: acid rain, health problems, corrosion of national buildings and monuments (as mentioned before), and water quality, among others. The article also gives the specific things that make air pollution worsen as time goes by.
This article could help me in my paper, because it is definitely the most important current event in Greece in the present. It is a very serious one and it is not only happening in Greece but in other countries too.
3) Quotes:
“Athens's climatic conditions favor formation of photochemicals that trap pollutants close to the ground, partly because the reconstruction activity that began after World War II has proceeded without a comprehensive plan for traffic and industrial location.”
“More than half the total vehicles in Greece are in the Athens and Thessaloniki areas, and their number doubled between 1983 and 1992.”
“Water pollution has likewise become a serious problem because of industrialization and development policies. Greece has shared in the general deterioration of water quality in the Mediterranean Sea in recent decades. In addition, Greece has drained many lakes completely to generate hydroelectric power or to expand agricultural land. Several animal species have disappeared from Greece as a result of habitat alteration caused by this process.”
Salendres, Jean Pierre
4/18/07
Annotated Search for Country Case
1) Citation:
Dassenakis, 01/15/00.http://www.iupac.org/publications/ci/2000/january/greece.html (accessed 4/19/07).
2) Summary
General Environmental Characteristics of Greece (copied summary)
Over the last century, and especially after the 1960s, a significant move of population toward the coastal areas took place as these areas experienced increased economic development, mainly through tourism, industry, transport, and agriculture. This expansion and intensification of economic development activities has increased environmental problems and threats to Greece's wildlife, leading to a considerable decrease in the number of many species. The most serious threats for the fauna are draining of wetlands, extensive tree cutting, land clearing due to forest fires, development of coastal housing and tourist installations, and construction on mountains. Increased emissions of various kinds of pollutants and pollution of air, water, and soil have also been recognized as significant problems.
(Personal summary)
This article shows the immense variety of flora and fauna of Greece and it tells us how humans have destroyed it in noticeable amounts. It gives good facts and statistics. It describes pollution of air, water, and soil. It also contains the history of pollution in Greece; showing us when it started to affect nature and how it did do. In sections it describes agriculture, wastes, air pollution, and marine pollution and how they contribute to the damage of the ecosystem. It gives strong reasons and it seems very reliable because it comes from the organization Chemistry International and these articles are written by professionals. In my research I could easily incorporate the magnificent data that tells us the why, when, what, and where of pollution.
3) Quotes
“Thermaikos Gulf is actually heavily polluted by sewage from Thessaloniki and by industrial effluents from about 250 factories. The sewage waters are estimated at 150 000 m3/d, of which only 30% are treated.”
“Intensive agriculture, farming, and municipal wastes are the main causes for the observation of red tides along Greek coasts and for eutrophication of Greek lakes.”
“River outflow has been significantly reduced during the last 20 years because of the construction of hydroelectric dams and the establishment of irrigation systems. Irrigated land has almost doubled in the period 1970 - 1990; it is now about 30% of the total. The reduction of the sediment load of the rivers leads to increased beach erosion, to loss of deltaic environments and wetlands, and to changes in offshore profile and shelf transport processes.”
"IncommunicadoEconomist 375. 8424 (2005), 34-34, http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=4&hid=17&sid=ff24dba6-209c-490a-97fa-c0953471e7ef%40sessionmgr8. (accessed April 19, 2007).
Abstract: This article focuses on governance in the country of Belize. For much of the past fortnight, Belize, a small English-speaking country in Central America, was technophobe heaven. Phones, Internet and cash machines stopped working for days and power was briefly cut. The prime minister, Said Musa, blamed saboteurs. Phones were more or less working again this week. But the respite may be brief. Belize is struggling with a public debt as big as its Gross Domestic Product. Much of it falls due this year. Most Belizeans are not keen to make sacrifices and believe that Musa has landed the country in its present mess after an inquiry into the Social Security Board learned of public money being lent unwisely to well-connected businessmen.
Quote: Belize is struggling with a public debt as big as its GDP. Much of it falls due this year. The country's credit rating has plunged, so new borrowing is onerous.
Peedle, Ian. "NI AssessmentNew Internationalist 392 (2006), 36-36, http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=4&hid=17&sid=ff24dba6-209c-490a-97fa-c0953471e7ef%40sessionmgr8. (accessed April 19, 2007).
Abstract: The article reports on the assessment of the journal "New Internationalist" on the politics and government of Belize. According to the journal, the country has a functioning and lively parliamentary democracy, with constitutional safeguards for the freedom of speech, press, and association. The politics is dominated by the United Democratic Party and the Peoples United Party.
Quote: Despite the natural beauty there are growing social pressures - among the problems being tackled by a government heavily reliant on external help are poverty, the highest rate of HIV infection in Central America and violent street crime associated with gang culture.
Saunders, Mathew C.. "Dig StuffDig 9. 4 (2007), 30-30, http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=3&hid=118&sid=af1abe1b-5d11-4dcc-a360-39b9e02b7a32%40sessionmgr104. (accessed April 24, 2007).
Abstract: The article discusses the experience of Heath Bentley, a high school student from Flagler County, Florida, in an archaeological expedition at Cahal Pech in Belize.
Quote: Cahal Pech was a major classic Maya center that probably was home to as many as 15,000 people at its height
Katarina F.
“Deep in India’s Northeast” 12-17-04 http://maps101.com/Application/GITN/View.aspx?articleID=752
Northeast India is isolated from the rest of the world. Bangladesh cuts Northeast India off from the larger part of the country. It’s considered a “backwater,” for physical and cultural reasons. The region is very wet with over 400 inches of rain a year. The main population of people there are tribal groups. Most of the people speak Indo-Aryan. Many rebel groups from the Northeast do not agree with the Indian government and make many terrorist attacks.
“The Northeast's tribal population is often at odds with Indian officials and its army. Several rebel groups arose out of dissatisfaction. Three rebel groups-The National Socialist Council of Nagaland, the United Liberation Front of Assam and the National Democratic Front of Bodoland-have come under pressure from the Indian Army.”
Surowiecki, James “India’s Skills Famine” New Yorker 4/16/07 54-54. http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=4&hid=13&sid=daa907d5
India’s economics have changed drastically as the country has become a high-powered center for information technology. Though India has one of the youngest workforces, a study showed this year’s salaries for skilled workers will rise fourteen and a half percent. Just ten percent of Indians get any kind of postsecondary education. India has over three hundred universities but only two are among the top one hundred in the world. At least thirty percent of India’s population is illiterate. Every dollar India puts into higher education creates value for the economy as a whole. India was once considered to be overeducated with too many engineers. Between 1985 and 1997, the number of teachers in India fell, as more students became enrolled in high school and college. In India, over three hundred million people live on a dollar a day
“Education will be all the more important for India’s well-being; the earlier generation of so-called Asian Tigers depended heavily on manufacturing, but India’s focus on services and technology will require a more skilled and educated workforce.”
Meredith, Robyn “Why Globalization is Good” Forbes 4/16/07 64-68. http://web.ebscohost.com/src/detail?vid=3&hid=13&sid106
There are many benefits of globalization. In the next eight years, about 1 billion people across Asia will become part of the middle class from a lower class. About seventy-seven percent of Indians live on two dollars a day or less. Foreign companies have invested forty-eight billion in India since 1991. India is creating free trade zones, like those in China to promote exports of software, auto parts, and more. Many western restaurants have moved in such as Domino’s, Ruby Tuesday’s, and McDonald’s. McDonald’s serves veggie burgers in the land where cattle are sacred to all.
“In the 1980s, people waited five years to buy a scooter and cars were only for the rich. "Since we've liberated the economy, lots of companies have started coming into India," says Kutwal. "People couldn't afford cars then. Now the buying power is coming."
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