Division for International Cooperation
Peace, Democracy and Development
Bonn 2000
1 Publishing: Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Division for International Cooperation Godesberger Allee 149 D -53170 Bonn Editing: Uwe Kerkow Coordination: Peter Schlaffer Translation: Annette Brinkmann Layout: Pellens Kommunikationsdesign ltd., Bonn Fotos: Andreas Boueke, dpa, Helmut Elischer, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Peter Hering, Klaus Reiff, Heiner Sassenfeld, Sepp Spiegl, Günter Walpuski, iAfrica, Wonge Bergmann, IMAGE BANK, Werner Bartsch, Walter Keller Lithography: eps Schreck & Jasper ltd., Bonn Print: Toennes Satz + Druck ltd., Erkrath Printed in Germany 2000 updatet reprint ISBN 3–86077–904 –4
2 Contents
4 Introduction
6 Promotion of Democracy
13 Social Justice
19 International Understanding
24 The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Worldwide
27 Crisis Prevention and Conflict Management
31 Trade Union Activities
34 Gender and Positive Action for Women
39 Human Rights
42 Protection of the Environment and of Resources
46 Organizational Structure of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
48 Addresses
3 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Peace, Democracy and Development ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Willy Brandt’s statement – both vi- accessible to everyone in equal measure. to the pressing needs of the day. Again, sionary and admonitory – that “develop- Freedom from hunger and deprivation the point is to propose not ready-made ment policy is the peace policy of the 21st and social justice are similarly impera- recipes, but possible solutions to out- century” has become the Leitmotif of tive for democracy. standing problems in cooperation with international development cooperation Colonization, State-socialist experi- our partners. on the part of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stif- ments and authoritarian governments The fact that a major part of our ac- tung. It is today one of the Foundation’s have destroyed the first steps towards tivities is directed towards qualifying central tasks to promote, to the best of its democracy and development in many groups of the civil society is self-evident: ability, development and democracy in countries of the Third World. Under such democracy needs to be internalized and Africa, Asia and Latin America. In so circumstances, ethnic, religious and formed. This is where political parties, doing, it realizes the legacy of its foun- cultural antagonisms will lead time and trade unions, peasants’ organizations der, the first German President Fried- again to crisis-prone developments – and business associations, human rights rich Ebert, of contributing to the under- including violence, war and destruction groups, women and environmental or- standing between peoples. of unprecedented dimensions. Contri- ganizations have a role to play, as do At the end of the East-West conflict butions to peace and understanding are independent media, research institutes, and the onset of the era of “globalization”, very much in demand as a result. The universities, churches and local insti- many issues are back on the agenda in a willingness to manage conflicts peace- tutions, as also political and State in- changed form. Models of State socialism fully in the future needs to be enhanced. stitutions such as parliaments, govern- are out of fashion, free and market- A great challenge – or perhaps too ments and ministries. oriented systems have proved to be great a challenge for consultancy by a In the cooperation with State organi- superior. Nevertheless, to copy success- political foundation? zations it is our aim to contribute to good ful political and economic “models” has The following examples are intended governance, thus also following our ideas turned out to be impractible. Each coun- to give an impression of the wide range of social democracy, individual partici- try, each region apparently needs to of activities carried out by the Friedrich- pation and public administration close start on its own road towards develop- Ebert-Stiftung. It is not our aim to present to the people. ment and democracy. The Foundation a comprehensive or even a represen- The confidence which has been built aims at assisting its partners and friends tative picture, but to illustrate that it is up over many years has enabled the in this process – offering help for self- primarily a matter of constant adaptation Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung to act as a me- help in societal issues, as it were. diator in many critical instances: Cen- Democracy is not achieved by simply The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, foun- tral America, Chile, Zimbabwe and Mo- holding elections at regular intervals. It ded in 1925 and thus the oldest polit- zambique are cases in point. However, requires the active participation of broad ical foundation in Germany, is a when acute conflicts are brought to a sections of the population. It must accept public-interest, private institution halt, confidence and the willingness to plurality of views and should bestow committed to the ideas of social de- cooperate must be restored. This re- power for limited periods only. Govern- mocracy. It carries the name of the quires both action to prevent new con- ments must be made accountable; the first democratically-elected German flicts and efforts of reconstruction and opportunity of a change of power by President, Friedrich Ebert, and con- development for the benefit of everyone peaceful means, ie through elections, is tinues his legacy of shaping freedom, concerned. Crisis prevention and conflict a prerequisite of any democratic order. solidarity and social justice by political management – apparently re-discov- Individual liberties must be guaranteed means. The Foundation pursues these ered areas of activity in development (freedom of association and assembly, aims through its programmes of cooperation – have been and continue to freedom of expression and of the press, political education, international co- be an approach practised for a long to mention just a few). The law and operation, scholarships and research time, and in many instances success- legislation must be applied and be both inside and outside the country. fully, by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung.
4 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
The promotion of peace and de- mocracy in the impoverished countries of the South must always go hand in hand with efforts of economic develop- ment. To quote Willy Brandt once again: “when starvation reigns, there is no lasting peace”. Again, the Foundation attempts to use its moderate resources to assist, but is not really able to promote nation-wide programmes; it therefore needs to limit its activities to so-called pilot projects – promotion of associa- tions, small-scale industry development, amongst other things. But it attempts to supplement these by cooperating and coordinating activities with other natio- nal and international donor institutions. The current globalization debate has left its mark on international cooperation between states. Our partners increasing- ly demand support for their efforts of shaping the globalization processes and their effects. Is globalization a blessing or a burden? It should certainly be not only a blessing to the rich countries, and a burden to the impoverished ones! In particular in times of globalization, policies which have a lasting effect are in demand. A blessing to only a few and a burden to many – this is not the way to secure lasting peace. The Foundation is also contributing to this discussion which will decisively affect the course of the new century. Peace, democracy and development in social justice are the values that the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung stands for in its international development cooperation. The examples in this brochure are intended to illustrate this. ■
our mission: supporting disadvantaged groups (favelas in Rio de Janeiro)
5 ○○○○○○○○ Promotion of Democracy ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
To promote democracy entails more PREPARING FOR ELECTIONS the composition of its partners and than just support of formal democratic IN INDONESIA … established contact with the emerging procedures such as elections. As de- democratic forces within a very short Indonesia’s path towards democracy monstrated by the examples of Indone- period of time. The current President, has been and continues to be long and sia, Guatemala and South Africa, it Abdurrahman Wahid, visited Bonn in hard. The country faced major political involves specifically the strengthening February 1999 on invitation of the Foun- challenges in 1999. The end of military of civil-society structures in all their dation in order to establish direct con- rule under Soeharto in 1998, which had forms. The Foundation’s activities in tacts with the German body politic. In- lasted for more than 30 years, parlia- Mali and in Lebanon illustrate very formation programmes for the leader- mentary elections in June 1999 and also clearly how important it is in this context ship of new democratic parties, the publi- presidential elections in October that to devolve State power. The important cation of a voters’ manual and dis- same year, paved the way for some ini- role played by the media in a process of cussions between selected groups of tial political and societal reform measures democratization is demonstrated by the voters (workers and women) and political in favour of democratic developments. example of “community radios”. They Fundamental conditions for democratic parties about their party platforms are indispensable for giving a voice to elections had first of all to be established. formed important elements in the Foun- disadvantaged and silent groups of the Political parties had to be registered and dation’s activities. They were meant to population, as in the case of Ecuador. a new electoral law adopted. Moreover, reinforce a new democratic political cul- The fact that political actors need to be after decades of systematic de-politiza- ture. To support the independent com- qualified for their new functions is tion under the Soeharto regime, the mission of election monitors (KIPP) in illustrated by the example of Egypt. voters had to be prepared, by means of order to ensure fair and publicly-con- political education, for the new political trolled parliamentary elections was situation and for the choice of candidates similarly important. In addition, the re- from a large number of competing poli- form process was stimulated by organi- tical parties. zing public forums with politicians, The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung ac- experts and representatives of the civil cordingly adapted its programmes and society on critical issues such as “the re-
t-shirts on the clothes line – for parliamentary elections in Benin from the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
6 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
form of electoral laws”, “laws on political played a major part in the Foundation‘s the advisory services offered by the parties” and “devolution”. The strength- dialogue and consultancy services. To Foundation concentrated mainly on the ening of democratic structures in Indo- this end, political expertise and access to relationship between the different nesia has been and continues to be a international experience has been made spheres of government. The constitution long-term objective. available in particular on questions of now provides for a body representing structures of government (federalism), regional interests, the „National Council ... AND PROMOTING DEMOCRACY the work of constitutional courts and of Provinces“, which participates in the IN SOUTH AFRICA media legislation. This went hand in hand national legislative process similar to with programmes aimed at preparing the German Bundesrat. By assisting the As early as the eighties, the Fried- representatives of the former liberation South African trade unions, the Foun- rich- Ebert-Stiftung supported the South movement ACN for the time when they dation supports the social dialogue be- African liberation movements against were to assume political responsibility tween the Government and the social the system of Apartheid which was in and at assisting them in developing poli- partners within the framework of the place in South Africa at that time; the cy options in the field of, for example, “National Economic Development and Foundation also organized meetings economic policy. In addition, the Fried- Labour Council”, established after 1994. outside the country to facilitate the rich-Ebert-Stiftung contributed to the pre- Programmes for local government de- dialogue between the opposition in exile parations of the historic elections in velopment and cooperation with par- and forces from the business and aca- 1994 through voter education program- liamentary committees at the national demic communities open to reform. With mes and the training of polling agents. and provincial levels are also aimed at the onset of political liberalization in Since 1994, the Foundation’s activi- strengthening the institutions of South 1990, the Foundation was able to begin ties in South Africa are directed towards Africa’s democratic system. Dialogue its operations inside the country as well. consolidating the new democratic dis- programmes on general political issues During the political transition up to pensation and establishing it more firmly which are being implemented in co- 1994, supporting the negotiating process within society. In connection with the operation with various South African which led to an interim constitution and negotiations on South Africa’s final con- institutions complete the picture. the first free and general elections has stitution, which was adopted in 1996,
1994: historic elections in South Africa
7 Pomotion of Democracy ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
DEVOLUTION IS THE MOST IMPORTANT DECISION FOR THE CONSOLIDATION OF DEMOCRACY IN MALI
“Fanga seginna so!” (the power June 1999 – thus increasing the turnout training of important leaders in public returns back home!) These are the by some 100 percent compared to the opinion (broadcasting journalists) and words used by the inhabitants of Mali’s National Assembly elections in 1997. guarantors of the rule of law (admini- villages and towns when they comment Even the radical parties in opposition strative judges). on the introduction of devolution. took part, which had boycotted previous Owing to the positive response to “Devolution is the most important elections: in all communities of Mali a devolution in Mali – which may serve political decision for the consolidation total number of 15,000 local councillors as an example for the rest of Africa – of democracy in Mali”, says Mali’s and 701 mayors were elected, including the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is current- President Alpha Oumar Konaré in 12 women mayors for the first time in ly supporting a nation-wide working order to emphasize his political con- the history of Africa. programme on local government poli- viction.This has caused the Friedrich- Journalists were also included in cies to assist, for example, local mayors Ebert-Stiftung to take part in the these programmes. Reports and infor- in the introduction of a citizen-friendly country’s process of devolution: mation ads were sponsored in which the system of public administration and ● We assisted in the preparation of country’s citizens were informed by radio also city councillors in the launching devolution in the context of financial about devolution and the rights and of development projects. And last but policy by organizing educational pro- duties of citizens. grammes for future city treasurers In a country in (1996 and 1997). which elections ● We organized seminars for the can- have been routi- didates of city and county councils in nely rigged in the the years 1997 to 1999. past, citizens and ● In 1998 and 1999, we trained wo- democratic politi- men secretaries general of local go- cians have little vernments so as to ensure that new faith in results local politics took into account the which are officially “gender perspective” from the start. presented. In or- “Just imagine elections being held der to ensure the and no one taking part!” This is a rule of law and to nightmare scenario for anyone in support the politi- political office. In consequence, we cal election pro- organized meetings in the towns and cess, the Friedrich- villages together with women’s or- Ebert-Stiftung in traditional leader, Mali ganizations, we sponsored street 1997 also trained the country’s judges not least it is important in a traditional theatre productions and also “Tam- from the administrative courts in matters society to build bridges between new Tams”, as they are called in Mali: related to local election laws, thus democratic local government repre- drummers, musicians and singers enabling the judges to deal competently sentatives and traditional opinion motivated people to go to the ballot. with possible challenge proceedings. leaders, such as chiefs of city districts The results were quite impressive: The four areas in which we have and tribal chiefs, if democracy is to be 38.3 percent of the population, or 45 been active include: motivation of citi- stabilized. percent respectively, voted in the local zens, training of both female and male elections in June 1998 and in May/ candidates and councillors, advanced
8 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
○ Pomotion of Democracy
FROM PSEUDO-DEMOCRACY the surface of an otherwise undemo- be enabled to achieve their objectives TO DEMOCRATIC REALITY: HOW cratic legacy. People absorb the proper inside the country by means of more ENCRUSTED STRUCTURES democratic spirit once they are sur- democracy, and also to personally benefit ARE BROKEN UP IN GUATEMALA rounded by an appropriate political from it. On the initiative and with the culture. assistance of the Foundation, Quemé Guatemala in December 1999, 13 years Since the beginning of 1995, our was the first in his city to draw up a after the re-introduction of democracy Foundation has been trying to improve differentiated working plan for his four- and three years after the peace settlement: the very situation which has been year term of office, a clear advantage long lines of cars with blaring music and described. The aim is to give a voice in over his opponent. Quemé won, albeit colourful posters tried hard to get to the the political process to those who have with a tiny majority. villages on the dirt roads. The messengers kept silent so far. Since then, the part- Since then, democracy from below of democracy “convinced” their often ner in this process has been Rigoberto has gone hand in hand with the rein- undernourished illiterate electorate with Quemé Chay, a Quiché-Indígena from forcement of institutions, advising and many promises but no concrete policies, Quetzaltenango, the second largest city training of members of staff and the with roofs of corrugated iron, food parcels in this country of 11 million inhabitants. search for ways of getting out of the and gifts of some ten marks for each vote Originally a candidate of the indigenously- crisis. At the same time, it meant to cast. If no other argument worked, former based civil movement “Xel-jú”, he be- arouse awareness in many seminars paramilitary occasionally visited the remote villages and described to the locals what would happen to them if they were to elect the wrong candidate. Election campaigns in the indigenous West of the country have nothing in common with what the word “democracy” normally entails. For 55 years, power in Guate- mala has been handed down from one military ruler to the next, from a more modern group of enterpreneurs to a more traditional one. But the ruling elite has remained the same: the military, busi- big land-owner in Central America nessmen, big landowners – all of them Ladinos. The large majority of indigenous came known for his intercultural ideas about the rights of individuals, to people, every second inhabitant of Gua- aimed at sharing responsibility between neutralize racist excesses and to bring temala, and also the lower and middle Indígenas and Ladinos instead of keep- together the opposing parties: business- classes of Ladinos have not been repre- ing power exclusively in the hands of men of Ladino and Indigena origins, the sented in the governments – in spite of or Ladinos. What he is trying to achieve Ladino elite and the new City Govern- just because of the prolonged civil war. instead is a sharing of responsibility. A ment. Democracy is certainly not limited How can democracy be made to first invitation to Germany by the Fried- to elections, yet without a properly de- function under such circumstances, and rich-Ebert-Stiftung quite unexpectedly mocratic electoral process it would not where do we start? Of course, institu- provided the candidate, who had run function either. How can candidates be tions and a new constitution, based on as an outsider, with the necessary made to genuinely respond to people’s the division of power and democratic prestige which had so far failed to exist. needs and be prevented from reaching principles, must first be introduced. But Yet it is not sufficient to simply support their aims by making empty promises? in most cases such reforms merely scratch new political actors. They also need to In the ensuing weeks, similar working
9
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Pomotion of Democracy ○○○○○○○○
plans were discussed and drawn up in if the individuals concerned are unwill- lenged immediately by his political 23 other counties together with political ing to drop their authoritarian attitudes opponents. It continues to be difficult for parties and civil movements. Seminars in negotiations? One possible solution: Ladinos to accept that an Indigena holds were organized in cooperation with the seminars on the culture of debate and the most important office in the City same partners to analyze the situation conflict prevention. Hall. This had always been the prero- and aspirations of the people. The body The activities of a political foundation gative of Ladinos. And now the elite has politic and power is moving closer to the are not constantly crowned with ever- to resign itself to another four years of people – at least in these 23 counties. increasing successes. However, in the being represented by an Indigena mayor. And what if the political parties actually elections of November 7th, 1999, a mayor This has not yet brought democracy win? Then it is essential to prevent con- was re-elected for the first time in the to Guatemala. But owing to the Founda- flict. Round-table talks have already history of Quetzaltenango: Rigoberto tion’s activities with civil movements in brought together the people in Quetzal- Quemé Chay won a second term of office. particular, a regional party is in the tenango. But how to reach compromises Of course, his election was again chal- process of being established which may
THE CASE OF EGYPT: TRAINING OF THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS FROM POLITICAL PARTIES, NGOS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
Globalization presents a new and ments are given the opportunity of acqui- moderate meetings and in a democra- special challenge to every country and to ring personal competence in political tic style of leadership. In addition, the every individual. In particular leaders action. Their active engagement for so- question of how to deal with the content from the political community, society ciety is to be promoted and supported in side of their work is addressed. Global and business are being faced with the process. They are trained by means political and economic developments are complex situations and decision-making of lectures and practical exercises in discussed with experts from a practical requirements for which they are often rhetoric and communication techniques, background. In total, more than 300 neither trained nor experienced enough. in how to deal with the media, to resolve experts have been trained in 6 training It is precisely in countries like Egypt with conflicts on the basis of partnership, to courses. its long socialist traditions and perpe- tuated hierarchic and centralized de- cision-making structures that globali- zation brings about the most radical break with acquired cultural techniques. Young people have to respond to these new challenges in order to fulfil their fu- ture leadership functions responsibly. No training has so far been offered to them outside the formal educational sys- tem. The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung has therefore initiated a training programme for young leaders in cooperation with the Faculty of Economic and Political Science of Cairo University. As part of this training, participants from political parties, NGOs and from local govern- parliamentary elections in Egypt
10 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○Pomotion of Democracy
eventually become a national movement will be. At present, almost all local go- In the run-up to the elections, the in four years’ time. vernment coffers are empty because the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung had supported Central Government has invested local women’s organizations, with which it REINFORCING LOCAL taxes into the reconstruction programme had established friendly relations, with GOVERNMENT DEVELOPMENT of Greater Beirut. The existing Local the aim of enabling women to exercise Government Act leaves little room to their right of political participation. Since Owing to pressure from the civilian local communities to regulate their own the summer of 1998, it has maintained population, local elections were held in affairs. An amendment of the Act and of a forum discussing political issues which Lebanon in 1998 for the first time in 35 electoral laws has been on the political are affecting local communities. These years. In many communities, members agenda for years. monthly events have caused various local of local councils had died in the mean- Local elections in 1998 proved that councils to ask us for further assistance time or no longer represented the local opportunities for political participation in the discussion of socio-political issues. constituency and its often denomination- were greatly appreciated by the local As from the year 2000, we will cooperate based interests because of demographi- population. This was illustrated, amongst with the Local Government Federation cal changes during the war years. other things, by the fact that a large of North Lebanon in running an advice In 1997, a poll by the Ministry for number of women stood as candidates and training centre for the existing 156 Local Affairs showed that 50 percent of and that many young people were upset local councils in North Lebanon. This the then existing 695 local communities operated without a properly legitimated local council. 25 percent were controlled by a district administrator or by indivi- duals who were well past retirement age. The post-war centralized policy of the Lebanese Government has perpetua- ted a disastrous situation in a large number of local communities even 10 years after the end of the civil war. Problems are caused, in particular, by the poor condition of the roads, and also of the water supply system and the telecommunications network. In 1997, no waste disposal system existed in 41 workshop in Lebanon percent of towns and villages outside Beirut. Local services (hospitals, libraries about being excluded from the elections centre is intended to provide services to etc.) were concentrated in the area of because the voting age had been set at members of local councils and admini- Mount Lebanon. 21 years. Voters’ turnout, at roughly strative units, and also to offer training It has not yet been decided what the 60 percent, was far above the turnout courses and advisory programmes. Af- functions of the currently 637 local coun- during the parliamentary elections in ter the start-up phase, it is intended to cils and the future of local governments 1996 (40 percent). operate on a cost-covering basis.
11 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Pomotion of Democracy ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
COMMUNITY RADIOS: SMALL, BUT been without rights and organized forms cational centre for coloured students in WITH POWERFUL ROOTS of representation for centuries, are sud- the midst of the bush in 1991, ie, still in denly able to act in solidarity. They march the days of Apartheid. The commu- The media ensure openness and on Quito in July 1999 and paralyze pub- nication activities of this “Bush College” transparency – and therefore form a lic life. They demand that price increases, developed into “Bush Radio”. Live re- constitutive part of any democracy. But ordered by the International Monetary cordings from democratic countries in many countries of the Third World, Fund, be repealed. A general strike elsewhere were broadcast, recordings they cannot, or simply do not, fulfil this follows. The Government makes con- of discussions and original contributions function because governments and leg- cessions. In January 2000 they march were taped on audiocassettes and circu- islation stop them or be- lated behind the censors’ back. cause monopolies and olig- This is the way in which this opolies prevent a plurality of medium – the only independent views from being articulated. one at the Cape then – developed. This is where the Fried- There are good reasons for rich-Ebert-Stiftung and its calling “Bush Radio” the mo- media activities have a role ther of all community radios at to play. The Foundation helps the Cape. It broadcasts on VHF, journalists by arranging pro- mostly live, for twelve hours a fessional training and ad- day in English and two African vanced training for them or languages. The listeners are on by supporting their lobby average between 18 and 25 groups. In addition, it pro- years of age. Emphasis is placed vides direct support to the on their being directly involved. media and their networks, They can regularly comment supporting workers from the informal sector in particular to alternative on the design and quality of the media such as community radios and again. This time, there is even a change programme in the so-called Open Fo- community TV. These are small and in the Presidency. The “radios populares” rum. They can phone in at any time largely noncommercial radio or tele- are indeed playing an important part in when a programme is on air. In addition vision stations. the organization of mass protests. In to studio interviews with politicians and Ecuador, they are organized in the natio- other public figures, there are special pro- THE EXAMPLE OF ECUADOR, nal association CORAPE, which in turn grammes for women, the unemployed, COTOPAXI PROVINCE: is affiliated to the World Federation of the handicapped and ethnic minorities. Community Radios, AMARC. The Fried- The content focus is on everyday issues: In this province, “Radio Latacunga” rich-Ebert-Stiftung coordinates training lack of health care, Aids, crime, rape, is on air, the only radio station of the 58 initiatives for alternative broadcasting drugs and terror in the townships, the in the province which broadcasts in the stations via AMARC and supports its target area of the programmes. Indian language Quechua. The reason initiatives for improving broadcasting With assistance from the Friedrich- for this is that the indigenous Indians rights in Latin America. Ebert-Stiftung, “Bush Radio” provides represent the majority of the population, training and advanced training to some in particular in the rural areas. The OR CAPE TOWN: 40 future journalists each year. They radio supplies information, but it also come from all parts of South Africa and gives them a voice. 30 voluntary staff are This is where “Bush Radio” is broad- even from neighbouring countries. The working as reporters by collecting the cast. It is one of the currently 84 com- practice-oriented training schedule news and conducting interviews. munity radios in South Africa. Its history includes broadcasting management, Their message meets popular de- sounds almost fantastic: the University documentation, news, reporting, inter- mand. The indigenous people, who have of the Western Cape established an edu- views and radio drama. ■
12 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Social Justice ○○○○○○○○○
Active support for disadvantaged school because their unemployed parents and the Government on the issue of un- sections of the populations, for example could no longer afford the school fees employment assistance/unemployment in India, and cushioning the impact of and additional costs (school uniforms, insurance and on occupational health the financial and economic crisis, such books, transportation, school meals). A and safety. In addition, it initiated a as in Thailand, are intended to benefit flood of workers returned from Bangkok debate about the social effects of directly the losers in the process of glo- to the rural areas in order to make a liv- privatization – a topic which is becoming balization. In addition, the Friedrich- ing with their families and in agriculture. increasingly important in view of the Ebert-Stiftung has launched a dialogue Under these circumstances, the Foun- fact that the extensive privatization plans programme with the International Con- dation in Thailand reinforced its coope- of the Government will affect public federation of Free Trade Unions and the ration with the Thai trade union move- utilities, universities and hospitals alike. International Trade Secretariats in order ment with the aim of bringing about Other activities on our part were to explore the conditions under which reforms in social policies. At a number of intended to strengthen the Thai trade core labour standards can be enforced meetings, potential strategies that could unions. They included training courses worldwide. To cooperate directly with facilitate a resolution of the crisis were for trade union leaders, for example in trade unions in, for example, Morocco discussed, as were the implementation negotiating techniques, and also joint plays a special part in this. The activities of fair industrial relations and the spe- strategic planning and coordination of the Foundation in this field are com- pleted by support for the modernization of social security systems in countries such as China or the reform of pension systems in Central America.
CUSHIONING THE EFFECTS OF THE FINANCIAL AND ECONOMIC CRISIS IN THAILAND
The most conspicuous sign of the financial and economic crisis into which Thailand was plunged in July 1997 was the breakdown of a large number of fi- nancial institutions and businesses. Demand went down drastically in some coconut vendor in Sri Lanka parts of the economy and entire indus- tries, such as the building industry, came cific problems of unemployed women. It meetings of the fragmented labour to a standstill. was the women in the rural and informal movement. On the suggestion of the A poorly developed system of social sectors in particular that were supported Foundation, the Thai trade unions set security further aggravated the effects of in training seminars and assisted in up a scholarship fund for the children the crisis. Unemployment figures rocket- forming networks. Women workers in of unemployed parents which was ed, while many other workers had to home-based industries constituted a spe- supported by the German and interna- accept lower wages and short-time work cial target group for activities in this field tional labour movement. The Thai Go- in order to keep their jobs at all. Women because they lacked any form of social vernment also gave a considerable sum were disproportionately affected by un- security and legally protected status. of money to the fund when this success- employment. Several hundreds of thou- The Foundation promoted the dis- ful initiative was brought to its notice. sands of children were taken out of cussions between workers, employers
13
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Social Justice ○○○○○○○○○○
INDIA: ACTIVE SUPPORT FOR vironment. To support women from the of the lessons learnt from ten years of DISADVANTAGED SECTIONS OF urban and rural informal sectors is project activities is that a network in- THE POPULATION therefore at the centre of our projects. volving everyone concerned is absolutely With the help of Indian partner organi- vital for successful lobbying on behalf of How can street vendors ensure that zations, the persons concerned learn to the poor in the Indian society. they are no longer driven away from initiate processes of change towards Some examples of activities with our their sales pitch? What can poor female greater economic and social security, to partners: with assistance from the Foun- lease-holders do to get access to small become more involved in the political dation, “Nari Nidhi” in 1991 founded a loans from the State? And how can an process and more aware of their own revolving credit fund for women who Indian woman convince her father that rights. The small-scale projects in various were previously dependent on private she, as a daughter, has an equal claim to regions of India are directed towards moneylenders. Some 6000 loans have the inheritance? self-help by practical measures: training, been distributed in the meantime in the Since 1989, the Friedrich-Ebert- workshops and study tours. Whether rural parts of Bihar. Together with “So- Stiftung has supported disadvantaged the aim is to inform displaced persons in hard”, an NGO from Rajasthan, the Fried- groups of the Indian population with Orissa about their legal situation, to rich-Ebert-Stiftung has organized prac- tical training exercises in 60 villages for women active in local politics. For several years, 33 percent of the seats in local bodies have been reserved for women. Today, these women make sure that new watertanks are installed in their villages or that girls attend school reg- ularly. They have become more self- confident and bring the problems of disadvantaged groups to the notice of politicians and government officials. In Patna, “Nidan” assists street vendors who are being spurned in all parts of India and harassed and driven away by the police and public authorities. A Na- being born into a caste should not determine the rest of his life tional Alliance of Street Vendors has information and advice. The majority of educate women active in local politics in been established and the campaign is the estimated 340 million poor in the Rajasthan or programmes in Andhra controlled by Nidan. country consists of the casteless, indi- Pradesh in which entire communities genous ethnicities and religious minor- practise sustainable resource manage- SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM ities. They are all discriminated against ment in areas of drought – all these ac- TO REPLACE THE “IRON RICE – socially, economically and politically – tivities are directed towards improving BOWL” IN CHINA in this strictly hierarchically and patriar- the working and living conditions of the chically structured society, and women groups concerned. Experience gained at “In China, we are just starting a sys- are disproportionately affected by this: the grass roots is incorporated into the tem of comprehensive social security, they are denied access to education, in- national development debate by means while in Germany, in contrast, such a come and social security, and also to of studies, conferences and discussion system has been in place for more than participation in decision-making pro- meetings with representatives from the 100 years.” Representatives of local cesses even in their direct social en- scientific and political communities. One authorities responsible for labour and
14 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
○ Social Justice
social security describe in these words, which can often be heard in China, the GLOBALIZATION WITH A HUMAN FACE – enormous task faced by their country. In TO ENFORCE CORE LABOUR STANDARDS WORLDWIDE
view of the fact that social services are The International Labour Organi- such as the World Bank, the Internatio- increasingly taken out of the responsi- zation (ILO) adopted a declaration on nal Monetary Fund and the World Trade bility of State enterprises which are in fundamental rights at work which was Organization (WTO), about how to in- need of reform, the authorities in charge supported by a large majority of go- corporate social aspects into the pro- in the Chinese provinces are being vernments, employers’ associations grammes of these organizations. confronted with the task of establishing and trade unions. In this process, go- On the other hand, it is our aim, and a social security system outside the vernments and social partners have that of other partners in Germany, to industries as part of their social policy. committed themselves to compliance incorporate core ILO labour standards In 1995, a pilot project was launched with fundamental trade union rights in projects and programmes funded in Shanghai with the aim of building up and the ban on child and bonded la- within the framework of German de- a pension insurance for urban workers. bour, and also on discrimination at velopment cooperation. In other words, Since the end of 1998, an unemploy- work. we contribute, at the national level as ment insurance, tax breaks for buying Through its international activities, well, to the strengthening of the social private housing property and a health the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is sup- market economy and the application of insurance have been added. In 1999, porting the practical implementation international standards. priority in the reform process has been of this declaration. The worldwide net- At the same time, we commission given to the nation-wide introduction of work of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung studies, such as the one by Christoph urban health insurances. In addition, an and its broadly-based socio-political Scherrer and Thomas Greven (1999), external accident insurance – indepen- approach make it possible to pursue analyzing how the activities of the WTO dent of enterprises – is intended to be this discussion outside the polarized impact on social and environmental built up in the years to come. There is a North-South context and to reinforce standards. certain measure of discretion of local the political determi- governments in setting contributions to nation to implement be paid, services covered and forms of core labour stan- investment. It is the aim of all pro- dards together with grammes of social policy in China to other institutions of provide services first to the entire urban the civil society. population and then to extend and stan- In cooperation dardize the system nation-wide in the with the Internatio- longer term. nal Confederation of Within a few years, the People’s Free Trade Unions Republic of China has drawn up, and to and the Internatio- some extent established, a system of nal Trade Secreta- social security for the urban workforce riats, we are pro- which is remotely comparable to the moting, on the one original system of local German health hand, the dialogue insurances. Most progress has been between organized made in its implementation in the cities labour and interna- of the coastal provinces. According to tional organizations official statistics, 4.3 million people, or involved in global go- 98 percent of urban workers, are covered vernance activities, bonded labour in Myanmar
15
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Social Justice ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
by a pension insurance in Shanghai. In pressures on the social security system tral America. In almost all the countries, view of the rapid increase in the pro- which are being discussed in Western the social insurance situation was portion of elderly inhabitants in Shang- Europe are noted with concern in China comprehensively analyzed and reform hai (the city government estimates that where employers are liable to contribute concepts were submitted so that the dis- 36 percent of the citizens will be sixty or and will soon have reached the end of cussion about the road to be taken was older in 2030) and the current decrease their ability to pay in view of approxima- very broadly based. Additional consul- in numbers of people in work, the pension tely 40 percent non-wage labour costs. tancy by international experts, offered system will come under considerable The Foundation is making a contribution to decision-makers in social policy, and strain at some point in the future. The to social justice in China by offering the realization of a great number of dis- health insurance is currently still based consultancy about the various compo- cussion meetings contributed to a on high personal payments and simul- nents of a statutory social insurance, the broadly-based consensus. taneously restricted entitlements in the institutional advantages of the principle Activities of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stif- case of severe illnesses. of self-governance for statutory health tung have considerably influenced the The level of services provided by the insurances and pensions insurance discussion on the conceptual redesign of social system offers a minimum of pro- bodies, the incentive system of the Ger- pension insurances in all Central Ameri- tection at least in the cities of the coastal man accident insurance and by sharing can countries. The most recent example provinces and is more balanced than, the German experience of a uniform and is the adoption of a pension reform in for example, the US-American system. nation-wide system of social security. Costa Rica which may undoubtedly be State-owned enterprises in the coastal regarded as one of the most modern of regions have in the meantime been to a PENSIONS REFORM IN the continent. It successfully combines great extent relieved of the costs incurred CENTRAL AMERICA solidarity-based elements of the “pay- for the “iron rice bowl”, ie the principle as-you-go”-principle with the financial of life-long social protection by State Both the debt crisis in the eighties, advantages of the funding principle. The enterprises. Since their funding is not and the development of inflation which discussion process has not yet been guaranteed, however, the new systems got out of hand in the course of it, have concluded in the other countries. will not be adequate for the poorer land- aggravated the structural defects and locked provinces where the restructuring weaknesses of the social security systems of State enterprises is particularly urgent. in Central America and in some cases It can thus be anticipated even at this brought them to the brink of collapse. It point that the question of how to share was in particular the pension systems the burden of social insurances between that were most affected by this develop- coastal and landlocked provinces will ment: as early as the mid-nineties they have to be addressed in a few years’ were at the end of their financial tether in time. several countries. The low level of cost- The Shanghai office of the Friedrich- coverage of the systems, of which many Ebert-Stiftung has initiated a cycle of had only existed for a short time, the seminars and workshops about the inefficiency of their administration, the individual components of a nation-wide funding problems and not least the selec- system of social security since 1996. It tive range and low level of services were cooperates with the relevant authorities the reasons behind the need for reform. and trade union federations which are Since 1994, the Friedrich-Ebert-Stif- involved in the design, implementation tung has been instrumental in analyzing and monitoring of the systems by the existing systems and in drawing up
employment authorities at all levels. The reform concepts in the countries of Cen- helping to modernize social insurance systems
16 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
○ Social Justice
REINFORCING THE of the economy. The State increasingly The Foundation therefore organized SOCIAL DIALOGUE – COLLECTIVE withdrew from social activities. Shortly two other study tours to Germany and AGREEMENTS IN MOROCCO before the Constitutional Referendum in one to Spain in which representatives of 1996 – the preparation of which took the executive bodies of partner organi- Morocco is one of the countries in place in a consensual political atmos- zations took part. Between 1996 and which the Government is actively sup- phere – this process culminated in a 1998, workers and employers held par- large national conference on the issue porting the social dialogue and collec- allel introductory seminars at the regio- “Social Dialogue” which was concluded tively-negotiated industrial relations. nal level with assistance from the Foun- with the “Joint Declaration of August 1st, There can be no doubt that so far collec- dation. It was the aim of this sequence of 1996”. This declaration has been re- tive bargaining is merely supplementing programmes to promote direct contacts garded from then on as the new social existing statutory regulations. between the leadership of organizations pact and has been the turning point in A poorly-developed rate of unioni- at the regional level, to stimulate the so- the relationship between the social zation, the fragmentation of the labour cial dialogue and to discuss how to im- partners and the State. movement, the absence of employers’ prove the opportunities for a negotiated Some months before the final ratifi- associations and the security interests of settlement of social conflicts. The climax cation of the declaration, leading repre- of this series of meetings was a two-day the State have politicized the social dia- sentatives of the three major trade union national seminar in Casablanca at the logue and reduced the opportunities for centres and of the employers’ association end of November 98 which concluded conflict resolution. This is also proved (all signatories to the declaration) had by the failure to negotiate collective agree- taken part in a study tour to Germany, the conceptual part of the first phase of ments and by the large number of bar- on the invitation of the Friedrich-Ebert- the programme. gaining and conciliation procedures ini- Stiftung, with the aim of being briefed on It was decided in July 1999 to proceed tiated or promoted by the administra- the German system of industrial rela- with cooperation in the field of, in tive authorities or political instances. tions. This reinforced the determination particular, trade union education and The last decade saw a political pro- to continue the dialogue and to draw up the promotion of “best practices” in cess of opening-up and of liberalization a cooperation programme. connection with the social dialogue.
demanding support for groups that are particularly vulnerable and promoting self-organization (Koutoubia minaret in Marrakech)
17 ○○○○○○○○○○○
Social Justice ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
However, the Foundation’s partners also collective agreements and to monitor ● developing the concept for and es- underlined their determination to tackle their implementation. Current activities tablishing a training centre for collec- the underlying social issues. As a means are mainly concerned with two things: tively-negotiated industrial relations. of general orientation, it was intended to ● focussing on specific industrial sectors prepare the resolution of conflicts by with the aim of reaching a collective means of negotiations, to draw up agreement for them;
ADDING A SOCIAL DIMENSION TO GLOBALIZATION
Under conditions of globalization, how to soften, socially and ecologically, language “Studies on International Fi- the pursuit of political and social ob- the impact of world trade and the nancial Architecture” which is also dis- jectives can no longer be restricted to strengthening of regionalization proces- tributed in Germany) and the South- national strategies. For quite some time, ses with the aim of re-establishing the South exchange are taken into account international capital markets, interna- ability to act on the part of the states in the in this process. The two dimensions are tional organizations and large trans- South at a different – regional – level. important if the real interdependencies national trusts have played a crucial role These aims were pursued in the in a globalized world are to be addressed. in influencing the development oppor- course of a series of international con- The “Studies on International Financial tunities of states in the Third and Fourth ferences (for example, on the regulation Architecture” are additionally available World. and de-regulation of capital markets in worldwide by email and distributed via The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is threshold countries, the role of rating the Foundation’s offices, also by elec- attempting to react to these trends with agencies in the international financial tronic means, to interested institutions a specific globalization-oriented project system or on the experience of regional in the partner countries. Expert know- approach. The national activities of the processes of integration); by means of ledge from the South is specifically Foundation’s offices are being supple- studies (on the social conditionalities of available for political processes in the mented by worldwide activities, while world trade, the attitude of important South: at a conference in Kampala, ex- national partners are incorporated into threshold countries towards the pro- perts from the MERCOSUR, ASEAN and global contexts of discussions and in- blems of the international financial SADC-areas analyzed the draft treaty teraction, and are thus enabled to con- architecture, the issue of trade in hazar- for an “East African Community”, which tinue to pursue their own objectives dous waste) and by subject-specific was in the process of being signed, and under conditions of globalization. consultancy for development politicians submitted proposals on how to optimize This approach is at present concen- and partners (for example on the impor- this regional integration concept. The trated on three major areas. At the centre tance of ILO core labour standards). Internet is also used for disseminating we find the issue of a new international Both the North-South exchange (for the results. ■ financial architecture, the problems of example by means of the English-
18 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ International Understanding ○○○○○
The improvement of the partner- direction: it was not trade, but the ship between the Europeans and, for political relations, development co- example, the Mediterranean or Latin operation and cultural exchange American countries represents an which were to be inspired by the important element of international historic meeting. understanding. But specific problems In cooperation with other political of understanding with, or between, foundations and organizations of developing countries have to be German development cooperation, addressed as well. In consequence, the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung drew up the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is trying a number of recommendations for to integrate China into the interna- the participants of the Summit and tional dialogue or to improve under- the general public on both sides; standing between South Africa and these recommendations anticipated Nigeria. The relationship between to a great extent the wide range of Peru and Ecuador, which continues issues covered in both the Final De- to be tense, can be improved by claration and the Plan of Action and means of youth exchanges and me- were oriented towards a new culture dia-related activities. In addition, of cooperation in which not only support is being given to internatio- diplomats but also the civil society, nal organizations, such as the Peace- with all its diverse concerns and keeping Section of the UN, in the institutions, should become more pursuit of their missions. closely involved. The aim is to develop a strategic EUROPE AND LATIN AMERICA partnership in which political dia- IN SEARCH OF A NEW logue, cultural and human contacts CULTURE OF COOPERATION carry the same weight as economic relations, thus consolidating the The Latin American participants relationship between the two regions and observers looked forward with “on the basis of the immense cultural great expectations to the first Sum- heritage which unites us” – as the mit Meeting of 48 Heads of States Final Declaration states. and Governments from Europe, Latin Owing to the revolutionary events America and the Caribbean which in Central and Eastern Europe and was held in Rio de Janeiro on June the emerging regional powers in Asia, 28th and 29th, 1999. It was, in par- less attention is today paid to Latin ticular, the MERCUSOR-member America. Stable democracies and states that had pinned their hopes on successful market-economic reforms the Summit to produce the break- prevent people from looking behind through in their efforts towards a re- the facade at a social reality which gional trade agreement – as con- continues to be grim: 40 percent of cluded by the EU with Mexico soon the population is living below the afterwards. Yet the preparatory docu- poverty line. The explosive potential ments in fact pointed in a different of globalization is often under-
19 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
International Understanding ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
estimated in its effect on the political and Maastricht and Amsterdam have moved for dialogue between the regions. To economic institutions which are often the European Community closer to ge- transfer the “German model” directly to not yet fully developed. nuine democratic integration despite other parts of the world is not a valid In consequence, the activities of the existing “democratic deficiencies”, Latin proposition; what counts is the willing- Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in Latin Ame- American scientists and politicians con- ness to learn from each other. In this rica and the Caribbean continue to be tinue to pursue their discussions within process, the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung determined by the need for contributing national boundaries: only a strong nation sees it as its contribution to a new culture to stability and to socially-balanced and state, capable of resolving the social of cooperation to support both regional democratically-legitimated develop- problems, can come to terms with globa- projects on issues of common interest, ments. The Foundation confronts this lization and strive for regional integra- coordinated by the countries’ represent- task in the spirit of strategic partnership tion. But we know from Europe that “se atives, and a more intensive dialogue invoked in Rio: by means of dialogue- hace el camino al andar” (To travel about innovative policy concepts on both based discussions on political and sub- hopefully is a better thing than to arrive, sides – Europe and Latin America. ject-specific issues, information pro- and the true success is to labour). grammes for partners in the EU and in At the same time the fact that or- EURO-MEDITERRANEAN Germany, support in developing insti- ganizations of the civil society, in particu- PARTNERSHIP UNDER THE tutional capacities, especially for the lar, expect international agreements at MICROSCOPE organizations of the civil society, but sub-regional level to speed up progress also for local communities and provinces. – in an enforceable form – in the fields of, Since Ehud Barak’s election as Is- Integration and democracy continue for example, protection of environment raeli Prime Minister and the revival of to be key terms, in particular in connec- and resources, gender equality or health the Middle East peace process, the chan- tion with the weak civil societies in Latin and safety standards was also addressed ces of successfully implementing the America and the Caribbean. An interna- at the conference. The weak MERCOSUR- Euro-Mediterranean Partnership (EMP) tional conference of the Friedrich-Ebert- institutions are not yet equal to this, but have again improved considerably. In Stiftung on the fringe of the Rio Summit again the main point is to get started. spite of all efforts of, verbally, decoupling demonstrated that major differences In other words, activities by the Fried- the so-called Barcelona process from still exist in this respect between Europe rich-Ebert-Stiftung also need to place the peace process, it had become obvious and Latin America. While the treaties of greater emphasis on providing a platform under the Netanjahu Government that
striking a balance: slums and rubbish dump in Brazil
20 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ International Understanding
peace, development and partnership But the EMP was, of course, not are intended to bring about the desired were inseparably linked. And not only primarily brought into being with the results. For activities by an NGO such as that: the Barcelona process is the most aim of complementing the Middle East the Foundation, the “third basket” is of important instrument for Europeans to peace process. It was rather an indirect special importance because it refers to positively influence the peace process result of the transformation in Eastern direct contacts between the NGOs of the and to complement American presence Europe, and subsequent negotiations various countries and the promotion of in a meaningful manner. for accession with the Eastern European democracy, human rights and social This is done in two ways: on the one States, which caused concern amongst justice. hand, Europe is one of the most the Southern EU-member states about a We have promoted corresponding important donors for funding the potential neglect of their interests. Their projects in almost all 12 Mediterranean building-up of the economy and State interests are self-evident: the Medi- partner countries and attempted to ini- structures in the Palestinian territories, terranean region is strongly affected by tiate multilateral exchanges. Meetings on the other the EMP offers a neutral conflicts inside and between countries, with journalists from the Southern framework for meetings between, for by religious fundamentalism, dictatorial Mediterranean countries, which are example, Arabs and Israelis even at a regimes and social inequalities. The im- taking place in Brussels on a regular time of crisis; this equally applies to pact on Europe: refugees, terrorism, drug basis, and a cycle of conferences on se- other parties in the conflict, of course. trafficking and a long-term threat resul- curity and cooperation in the Medi- Below the level of governments, the ting from weapons of mass destruction. terranean are cases in point. How im- Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung was able to bring together Israelis and Palestinians The EMP converts this threat scenario portant these activities have been became and Europeans in a series of workshops into a positive picture by emphasizing obvious during the Euro-Mediterranean in Brussels, thus successfully pointing the opportunities of security partnership, Conference of Ministers in Stuttgart in the way. A major project of cross-border economic exchange and encounters be- April 1999 when the Friedrich-Ebert- cooperation between Israeli and Pales- tween the populations concerned. In Stiftung, together with its partners, or- tinian regions developed out of these addition to multilateral mechanisms, it ganized a meeting of journalists, a hu- meetings and in the meantime has been is in particular the bilateral association man rights forum and a trade union granted considerable support by the agreements with five countries up to conference on the Euro-Mediterranean European Commission in its function as now (Cyprus, Malta and Turkey besides Partnership. a pilot project. the candidates for membership) which
boom town Shanghai
21 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
International Understanding ○○○○○○
CHINA’S INTEGRATION INTO international socio-political dialogue If the aim is to advance the socio- THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIO- with the People’s Republic of China. The political dialogue, it may be advisable to POLITICAL DIALOGUE willingness of both parties to abandon start with areas of a more mundane na- out-dated stereotypes forms an essenti- ture as part of a practice-oriented dia- China has extended its active engage- al part of any meaningful dialogue. Those logue, such as the role of social security ment in international organizations in who wish to enter into a dialogue on so- systems in a market economy and the recent years, ranging from the UN to the cietal issues with China need to be aware development of a legal system. The aboli- ILO and membership in WTO. Never- of the risk of being sucked into a “dialogue tion of the “iron rice bowl” has necessita- theless, both historical and current events amongst the deaf” once mutual preju- ted the introduction of a new system of put a strain on attempts at extending an dices come to the surface. social protection. The pension, health
THE PRACTICE OF SOUTH-SOUTH DIALOGUE: SOUTH AFRICA – NIGERIA
Global Dialogue” (IGD), was commis- from the start. In consequence, the sioned by the Government to realize the overall concept of the planned dialogue planned bilateral exchange of expe- was extensively discussed with our offices rience. A subsequent exploratory visit of in Johannesburg and Lagos. The Foun- IGD-staff to Nigeria in October 1998 led dation also undertook to pay part of the to first intensive contacts with Nigerian costs for activities so far implemented. representatives of the Government, the Future debates will focus, in partic- business community, trade unions, the ular, on matters related to the Consti- media, NGOs and academia, who had tution, good governance, devolution, set up a “Nigerian Steering Committee” economic exchange and the building-up to act as a counterpart of IGD. It was de- and enlargement of the civil society. A cided to hold two conferences with the aim major expert input will inevitably have Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigerian President of identifying common fields of interest, to be contributed by South Africa. ie, the focal points of future activities. However, the Nigerian partners will wish In the eyes of other countries on the The first conference took place in to share their specific experience in the African continent, South Africa passed Lagos on February 12th/13th, 1999. Dis- drawing-up of policy proposals. through an exemplary reform process cussions centred around experiences when Apartheid came to an end. In Ni- gained in connection with the processes geria, the most populous country of of transition, prospects for democratic sub-Saharan Africa, a new political de- velopment took shape in 1999 under an consolidation und the strategic roles of elected civilian Government after 16 years the two countries in continental or glo- of military dictatorship. It therefore bal affairs. makes sense that these two, probably At the second conference in Johan- most important, countries in sub-Saha- nesburg on August 26th/27th, 1999, the ran Africa have begun an intensive and initial discussions were resumed and mutually-supportive dialogue – which intensified. South Africa´s President has also been endorsed by the two Pre- Mbeki participated at some stages of the sidents currently in office. conference. On the part of South Africa, one of the The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung was Foundation’s partners, the “Institute for invited by IGD to take part in the project Thabo Mbeki, South Africa’s President
22 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
○ International Understanding
and unemployment insurances, which sovereignty” is seen by China as some ment and prejudices and to promote a have been put on a statutory basis since new attempt at bringing back interven- change of heart amongst the next gen- the mid-nineties, reflect to a great extent tionism through the backdoor. The night- eration of leaders and decision-makers. the seminars, symposia, expert consul- mare of a hundred years of foreign dom- The project follows to some extent tancies and study tours of civil servants, ination owing to its own weakness is the example of Franco-German youth researchers and experts which the coming back to haunt it. The bombard- exchanges. The participants in the Foundation has been offering over the ment of the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade exchange come from two cities in Peru years. has rekindled old fears of being spurned and Ecuador. Programmes lasting sev- Owing to the market-oriented eco- and disdained by the big powers. eral days take place alternately in the nomic reforms, trade unions are in the two countries. The target groups include process of reorienting their basic philo- PERU/ECUADOR: young persons in general and young sophy from political domination towards YOUNG PEOPLE CONTRIBUTE leaders between 20 and 30, who are becoming genuine representatives of TO PEACE living in the border area. labour interests. This includes a gradual In a first step, the dialogue is directed opening-up to and conceptual coopera- With the signing of the overall peace towards issues of common interest, such tion with Western trade unions and in- agreement of Brasilia on October 26th, as youth unemployment or military ternational trade secretariats. 1998, a border conflict between the two service, and the exchange of experience. The internationally most difficult and South American neighbouring countries Once the initial defensive attitudes are emotionally charged issue in the dialogue of Peru and Ecuador finally came to an broken down, other political issues can with the PR China continues to be the end: it had been going on for almost two be addressed. Peruvian and Ecuadorian implementation of and respect for hu- centuries and had repeatedly erupted youth organizations are part of this man rights. The traumatic experience of into armed confrontation in the disputed process and are expected to contribute theTienanmen Square massacre in 1989 border area – the last time in 1995. to the viability of the project in the longer causes many people in the West to While the compromise reached after term, thus facilitating peace and under- question the very ability of the Chinese prolonged negotiations between govern- standing between the peoples of the two Government to pursue any social reform ments has put an end to political and countries in future. or dialogue. The Chinese body politic, in military confrontation, the deeply rooted Cross-border communication, not contrast, emphasizes the important role distrust based on nationalist perceptions only between politicians, forms part of of social human rights against the between the populations of the two the “confidence-building measures” background of China’s historical expe- neighbouring countries has persisted. which are expected to bring to life the rience of poverty, starvation and feuda- However, the treaty as a whole, and the peace between Ecuador and Peru. They lism. The Chinese political leadership longing for peace expressed in it, met are directed, in particular, towards the does not directly deny a deficiency in the the approval of the majority of the people. populations on both sides of the border. implementation of general and political But the mutual dislike between the two In today’s world, this can be achieved human rights, but argues that it requires nations lives on in the minds of the by the media only, for example by “TV- more time to implement them and, for people. Loja”. A bi-national television system is deterrence, calls to mind the case of The offices of the Friedrich-Ebert- planned to be established in cooperation Russia. Stiftung in Peru and Ecuador are with the “Universidad Tecnica Particu- The PR China, as a regional power, therefore organizing a youth project, lar” in Loja and corresponding partner demands to be taken seriously and to be involving young persons from the two institutions on the part of Peru. Produc- treated as an equal partner in the dis- countries, as part of the “Agreement on tions and programmes are planned to cussions of global issues. The formula Confidence-Building Measures and be jointly used by being broadcast in the practised by NATO in the Kosovo conflict Security” for the year 2000; it is the aim respective other country as well. This of “human rights take precedence over of this project to diminish such resent- adds to the programme offered without
23 The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Worldwide ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
New York
Washington D.C.
Mexiko City Kingston Santo Domingo Guatemala Tegucigalpa San Salvador Managua San José Caracas Panama
Bogotá
Quito
Lima
La Paz
Rio de Janeiro São Paulo
Buenos Aires Santiago Montevideo
24 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
St. Petersburg Tallinn
Riga Moscow Vilnius Minsk Berlin London Brussels Warswa Prague Paris Bonn Bratislava Kiev Strasbourg Geneva Budapest Zagreb Belgrade Temesvar Ulan Bator Banjaluka Bucharest Almaty Pristina Sarajevo Bischkek Podgorica Sofia Skopje Tbilisi Rome Beijing Madrid Tirana Istanbul Tashkent Ankara Erivan Lisbon Athens Tunis Seoul Rabat Malta Beirut Tokyo Amman Tel Aviv Jerusalem (East) Islamabad Cairo New Delhi Shanghai Kathmandu
Hanoi
Dakar Sanaa Khartoum Bangkok Bamako Manila
Conakry Phnom Penh Cotonou Addis Abeba Lagos Colombo Abidjan Accra Yaoundé Kuala Lumpur Kampala Singapore Nairobi
Jakarta Daressalaam Luanda
Lusaka Harare Antananarivo Windhuk Gaborone Maputo Johannesburg
Offices with German staff
Offices with local staff
As of December 1999
25 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
International Understanding ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
extra costs. It meets the information programmes. The cooperation partner “pilot project for bi-national participatory needs of some 6 million inhabitants in a in this case is the Ibero-American Asso- grass roots communication for peace, border area which was a “flourishing ciation of Regional and Local Television integration and development”. Again, region” before the conflict. Stations, ASITRA. the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung has given The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung sup- In addition, a network of six commu- its support to this project, this time ports TV-Loja by means of training nity radios along the border, three from through the World Federation of Commu- courses. The project started with a basic Ecuador and three from Peru, are taking nity Radios, AMARC, by providing semi- course in news production and was later part in the implementation of peace. In nars and workshops to teach journalistic supplemented by the development of in- cooperation with their national umbrella skills and know-how. ■ dependent formats for information organizations, they have developed a
PRACTICAL COOPERATION WITH THE UN-PEACEKEEPING SECTION
Kofi Annan – then Head of the Blue- a small unit in the UN-Secretariat in ted in the organization of a great Helmet Section of the UN – called upon to New York. It has been and continues number of seminars for the analysis of the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung in 1994 to to be the remit of this unit to analyze peace activities in countries such as support the UN in its worldwide peace past UN operations and draw lessons Somalia, Mozambiqe, Angola and operations. Annan knew the Foundation for the future. Cambodia, to mention a few. Staff of from its long-term activities in his native The Foundation equipped the new the Foundation took part in a field country Ghana. It subsequently assisted sub-section with modern archive and study in Haiti, examining specifically the Peace-keeping Section in building up data-processing technology and assis- to what extent the media and commu- nications may contribute to the re- establishment of peace and to eco- nomic-social reconstruction. The “Guidelines for Media and Informa- tion Activities during UN Peace Ope- rations”, which are available to every blue-helmet soldier as teaching and information material today, are one of the results of this work. Cooperation with the UN-Peace Section was continued in 1999 with a conference in Geneva for more than 90 experts from the UN-system, the military, representatives of aid orga- nizations and national development agencies. The meeting held intensive discussions on how to de-militarize parties in a dispute and to re-integrate former combatants and child soldiers “Guidelines for Information Activities”: UN blue helmets into the civil society.
26 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Crisis Prevention and Conflict Management ○○○○
Each year, armed conflicts, in par- A CASE OF PRACTICAL PEACE structure, such as water supply, waste ticular in the countries of the South and POLICY: CROSS-BORDER water management and drainage, elec- East, destroy the positive development COOPERATION BETWEEN tricity supply, waste disposal and trans- effects of previous years. These wars ISRAELI AND PALESTINIAN port. It is planned to cooperate in future and, increasingly, civil wars and other LOCAL AUTHORITIES in the fields of agriculture, business de- violent internal conflicts within states velopment, environment, local govern- are often the consequence of economic On February 15th, 1999, an agree- ment, education, health and social serv- and social inequalities, of violations of ment was signed in the City Hall of Haifa ices, tourism and protection against human rights and the lack of alternati- which may be called historic in every crime as well. ves and institutions for balancing in- respect: “Cooperation North” spells out The Foundation sees its role primari- terests and resolving conflicts in a peace- cross-border cooperation between the ly as that of a mediator between both the ful manner. Peace policy may take the Palestinian border region of Jenin and unequal partners and vis-a-vis Europe. practical form of promoting cross-border the Israeli border regions of Gilboa and Its good contacts to the Upper Rhine re- cooperation between Israeli and Palesti- Bet Shean, and the City of Haifa. It was gion have come in useful in this context: nian local authorities or of inviting the the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung and its in the past 50 years, a system of cross- parties to the conflict in a state to talk to partners, Dr. Yair Hirschfeld, Director of border cooperation has been developed each other (Sri Lanka) or finding a the Israeli Economic Cooperation Foun- there which has found worldwide rec- common solution for peaceful conflict dation and Zuhair Manassrah, Governor ognition as a model and is used as a management (democratization in Mo- of the Palestinian Autonomous Region blueprint elsewhere. zambique). International policies may Jenin, who had taken the lead in this With assistance from the Lord Mayor also contribute to the consolidation of initiative. of Freiburg, Dr. Rolf Böhme, a triangular peace, as has been demonstrated by the It is the first agreement of this kind partnership agreement was concluded activities of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung and its symbolic role in practical peace with “Regio TriRhena”. As part of it, Ger- in the Mekong region. policy should not be underestimated. man, French and Swiss experts give ad- Fields of cooperation include the exten- vice to the Palestinian and Israeli part- sion of regional and cross-border infra- ners, exchange programmes are planned
Palestinians demonstrating for work and peace
27
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Crisis Prevention and Conflict Management ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
and traineeships with German and between schools and universities, and demonstrate the economic prospects in French institutions will be arranged in also for meetings between NGOs, youth, times of peace. individual cases. A first group of experts women and other groups. The Commis- While the war is still going on, plans has been to Israel and the Palestinian sion approved a project “Cooperation have to be made for the ensuing period. territories at the end of June 1999 for North” by the two offices of the Fried- Constitutional matters, legal systems, discussions with the partners and set rich-Ebert-Stiftung; the project will fur- the functioning of democratic institutions out a working schedule for planned co- nish quite considerable amounts of are issues on which information is very operation. money for planned cooperation between much needed. Considerable synergy effects for other Israelis and Palestinians as from spring End of November 1994: the first free projects in technical and financial de- 2000. elections are to be held. The majority of velopment assistance in the Palestinian the 16 million Mozambicans are illite- territories may be achieved as a result of MOZAMBIQUE: rate, have never seen a ballot paper or a “Cooperation North”. The Federal Minis- THE ROAD TO PEACE ballot box. They do not know the capital try of Economic Cooperation is already Maputo where the President they elect examining whether to support cross- Rome, October 1992: representatives and his Cabinet will reside and represent border infrastructural projects and has of Mozambique’s two warring parties them and where the elected members of commissioned a feasibility study on wa- sign a peace accord which brings to an Parliament will act on their behalf. The ter supply, waste water management end one of the bloodiest civil wars on the German and local staff of the Friedrich- and drainage as a first step. This will African continent and one which lasted Ebert-Stiftung are planning and drawing create greater acceptance of and re- for 16 years. up education programmes tailored to gional coordination for measures al- The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung has the specific needs of the local people. ready decided for Jenin: it is planned to come to Maputo with a project office and Broadcasting in local languages, set up an industrial park and to extend a residential member of staff as early as comics and street theatre – this broadly- the water supply and waste water dis- 1984. Reform forces are carefully selected based campaign would not be possible posal systems. and supported in their efforts towards without the support of prominent Mozam- The European Commission will pro- peace and democratization. A short while bican artists, but time and again it must be vide considerable funds for programmes later, a business expert follows: consult- coordinated with other organizations. in the fields of environmental protection, ancy for and funding of the crafts and Of course, politicians need to be pre- business development, cooperation small-scale industries are expected to pared and trained for their functions as
landmine victims in Mozambique violence in Nigeria
28 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○Crisis Prevention and Conflict Management
well, and information provided. The of a sequence of conferences on re- academic community needs to be in- gional cooperation which are being corporated and forums be so organi- organized in close cooperation be- zed as to enable them to contribute tween the “Cambodian Institute for to a democratically-structured so- Cooperation and Peace” (CICP) and cietal system. Although the elections the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung. One have proceeded without major round-table conference discussed the upsets, Mozambique’s democracy question of “ASEAN policy: flexible continues to be lacking in democrats. engagement or non-intervention?” The successful programmes of polit- and attempted to strike the right bal- ical education which have been ance between state sovereignty and started need to be continued, con- growing (regional and international) stantly improved and expanded. The interdependence. The discussions Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung has added went along the same lines as a re- cooperation with the Parliament and gional workshop in March 1998 on parliamentary groups to its pro- “environmental management and gramme. sustainable development in the May 1998: the first local elections Greater Mekong Subregion”. It is are being held in some parts of the planned to follow up these pro- country. An incomplete election reg- grammes by organizing other ac- ister provokes serious political con- tivities in this field. frontations. An election boycott called It became evident during the con- out by the opposition leads to a voters’ ference that the subjects presented turnout of no more than 20 percent. and discussed were highly topical. Nevertheless, it has been one more This was explicitly emphasized by step towards stabilizing democracy, prominent speakers, such as the yet also a reminder that political Prime Minister of Cambodia and the education must not be neglected. ASEAN Secretary General, and was December 1999: This time Mo- later re-confirmed during discussions zambicans go to the ballot box for at the ASEAN Conference in Singa- the second time to elect their Presi- pore in July 1999. There are a num- dent and the National Assembly – ber of reasons for this: indeed quite a success story for de- ● With Cambodia’s accession to mocracy in Africa, and it requires ASEAN as its tenth member, an im- further support. portant gap was closed between ASEAN and the GMS, which had so RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN far been open. THE MEKONG REGION ● In view of the considerable eco- nomic potential of the GMS, ASEAN The international conference on leaders decided as early as 1995 to the subject “The Greater Mekong jointly support the Mekong subre- Subregion (GMS): political and secu- gion. rity implications for ASEAN” is part
29 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Crisis Prevention and Conflict Management ○○○○○○○○○○○
● Owing to the many decades of war, And yet for almost 20 years now, a In cooperation with several Sri aggression and instability, in which the civil war has been raging in the North Lankese NGOs, the Friedrich-Ebert-Stif- Mekong river largely functioned as a and East of the country, caused by ethnic tung is therefore organizing workshops dividing line, security – apart from the tensions between the Singhalese majority for representatives of the two ethnic economic implications – constitutes an and the Tamil minority of the population; groups with the aim of analyzing the important concern, including all its side it has so far claimed some 60,000 lives causes of the conflict, presenting the effects such as arms build-up, border and forced hundreds of thousands to viewpoints of the respective other party, disputes, migration, environmental de- flee or to go into exile and has drastically introducing methods of constructive gradation and resource management. reduced the development potential of management and transformation of ● Experience has shown that regional the country. conflicts and studying cases of successful or transnational cooperation cannot fully Due to political intrigues, deeply- non-violent strategies of conflict and develop if attention continues to be re- rooted mutual distrust, apparently irre- crisis management from other parts of stricted to the national level of govern- concilable ethnic-nationalistic ideolo- the world. ment. gies on both sides and the intransigence Another series of programmes for of the Tamil guerrilla “Liberation Tigers local politicians of the government and CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS CRISIS of Tamil Eelam” (LTTE), all efforts of de- opposition is aimed at promoting a MANAGEMENT IN SRI LANKA escalating the tensions have so far failed. constructive dialogue and cross-party The large number of victims and cooperation in the resolution of this Sri Lanka: an azure sea, perfect high costs of war have caused an in- ethnic conflict. beaches of fine sands, lush tropical veg- creasing number of representatives from The programme is supplemented by etation, friendly people – a holiday- the civil society to call for political nego- seminars in which Singhalese local maker’s paradise! This was probably tiations between the parties involved in politicians from the South of the island the idea shared by most of the 430,000 order to end the conflict by guaranteeing meet their Tamil counterparts from the tourists (including some 80,000 from full rights to the ethnic minorities within East. ■ Germany) who visited the island in the the framework of a multi-ethnic state Indian Ocean in 1999. structure.
30 ○○○○○○○○○○○○ Trade Union Activities ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Economic problems, unstable and FOR EXAMPLE LEGAL ADVICE IN VIETNAM poorly-developed democratic institu- tions, unsatisfactory working conditions and social deprivation sum up the general conditions towards trade union activities in many countries of the South. In con- sequence, trade unions must address both the concerns of their members and the problems of a growing number of people working in the so-called informal sector who are protected neither by work contracts nor by health or social insur- ances. It is, however, also part of trade defending workers´ rights unions’ regular tasks to fight for respect “Rapid transformation, the diffe- all, 48 cases last year. The court re- for human rights, for minimum public rent investor mentality, the consequen- cord of the advisory office is quite services, protection of minorities, wom- ces of the Asian crisis, and also the new impressive: it won 46 percent of its en’s rights etc. Conversely, the State and confrontation with the private sector court cases, nine of those in the second entrepreneurs attempt to block trade are giving us a lot of trouble”, says Mrs. instance, and one case even went to the union activities by means of pressure Pham Thi Thanh Tuu, member of the highest law-court. and repression, and also by granting Executive of VGCL (”Vietnamese Gen- The office is run by the regional financial and political privileges to certain eral Confederation of Labour”) in Dong branch of the general workers’ organi- trade union officials. To support free Nai province, some 30 kilometres north zation VGCL. It is available for all trade unions that are conscious of their of Ho Chi Minh City. The federation is workers seeking advice, not just for responsibility towards society therefore the apex organization of trade unions trade union members. continues to be a major task of the in Vietnam. Mrs. Thanh Tuu is standing The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung has Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung. in a small office with a plate over the promoted and assisted this process door offering advice in cases of conflict from the start: it tried to attract support EGYPT: HOW TO SETTLE with the employer. A lawyer, a legal for the concept, assisted in the legal CONFLICTS IN INDUSTRIAL clerk and two administrative staff are training and at the end also in furnishing RELATIONS the members of the advisory team. the small centre. Workers come to see them mostly about Legal advice is a new kind of service Industrial relations in Egypt are or- matters of job grades and pay, over- indicating a change of heart within the ganized on the basis of a traditional time regulations and overtime pay, and Vietnamese trade union movement patriarchal pattern. Trade unions and often also about working conditions on both in respect of their self-perception employers’ associations are not given the shop floor. “Most conflicts can be internally and their image in the world the opportunity of negotiating collective resolved in discussions with the firms”, outside. Moving away from being a agreements because the Government says Mr. Vu Ngoc Tuan, legal counsel- socialist-front type of organization and lays down wages and working conditions or and director of the office. “The towards being a genuine mouthpiece centrally. The privatization of some companies make concessions when of the workers appears to be the trend public enterprises has now made it they realize that the workers know that is taking shape. The modest office in necessary to find new ways of dealing their rights and are given support.” Dong Nai may appear rather unspec- with each other. Only very serious cases, ie when dis- tacular to Western visitors, but it is the The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, in missal notice has been given, will be symbol of a change in society which is cooperation with the Egyptian Trade tried in the courts. There were, after seen as a continuous process in Vietnam.
31 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Trade Union Activities ○○○○○○○○
Union Confederation and a national NGO, SOCIO-POLITICAL DIALOGUE exist in Europe? What are the basic fea- has been offering a training course for IN KOREA tures of the pension insurance scheme trade unionists on the subject “how to in the Federal Republic of Germany and settle conflicts” which has been going on The issue of the “social dimension” what reform proposals have come from regularly for four years. This training of the market economy has been playing the German trade unions? What are the course is offered to all workers, not just a prominent part in South Korean politics options under discussion for a reform of trade union members. For some indus- and society in recent years: what should the accident insurance in Germany and trial trade unions (such as that of the be used for guidance in Korea? Where is what is the role of social housing there? chemical workers) specific courses were an additional input indispensable in so- Furthermore, the role of the trade cial matters, where desirable? What is unions in shaping social policy has organized for their members only. Some the role of the State? In the most recent attracted a great deal of attention in re- courses were especially designed for past, the Government has expanded the cent years: how can the unions convince women in order to promote the cause of, instruments of social policy, not least more people of the necessity of de- in particular, the (few) women officials under pressure from the trade unions: veloping the instruments of social policy in trade unions. As part of an evaluation, in analogy to the German system, the and what is the part played by the unions they reported on their experience in four pillars of social insurance (unem- in important institutions of labour market applying the newly-acquired skills: they ployment, health, pension and accident and social policies (such as the Federal are feeling much more self-confident insurance) have been introduced. In par- Labour Office). Korean trade unions are and able to assert themselves as a result. allel to the discussions about introducing certainly aware of the fact that German For example, one of them successfully or, if necessary, extending appropriate economic and social policies have de- forced the health insurance to pay for programmes, the Foundation’s partners veloped differently, and yet there are the treatment of venereal diseases for from the trade union sector have request- many similarities, many lessons to be women – as had hitherto been the case ed advice and expertise on all central learned from current concepts, and at for men. issues of social policy: what must be the times even from the historical experience, concept of an unemployment insurance, of trade union activists in Germany. how can instruments of labour market policy be designed in order to produce the greatest possible effect on employ- ment, what health insurance systems
respect for social and economic human rights: cultivating the land in Egypt demonstrating workers in Korea
32 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○Trade Union Activities
TRADE UNIONS AND REGIONAL concepts and became increasingly active most affected by the process, and to INTEGRATION: THE CASE OF at the regional level. develop joint strategies. Government MERCOSUR In 1994, a regional coordination body, representatives, entrepreneurs, scien- which later became the “Comisión Sin- tists and external experts were invited to Trade unions are being confronted dical MERCOSUR” (trade union com- take part in a number of activities. Var- with new challenges as a result of re- mission for MERCOSUR), began to draw ious working and study programmes by gional attempts at integration in various up proposals on how to shape the process trade unions leaders and scientists close parts of the world. This applies to the of integration from a social point of view. to the unions in Brussels were organized southern part of Latin America as well Both the recent adoption of the so-called with the aim of getting some first-hand where MERCOSUR was established in “Social Protocol” by the member states experience of the EU; these programmes 1991, initially on the basis of bilateral of MERCOSUR, which defines important formed an important part of the Foun- agreements; it consists of Argentina, social and trade union rights, and the dation’s activities. Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay, with Chile “Foro Consultivo Económico Social” (Con- At the moment, we are implementing and Bolivia as associate members. sultative Economic and Social Forum), two comprehensive regional projects in The trade unions in the region, which which has been established after lengthy cooperation with the trade unions: a have been influenced by very different his- discussions along the lines of the EU- Foundation project involving all inter- torical traditions and cultures, assumed Economic and Social Council, albeit on a national trade secretariats is currently either a negative or indifferent attitude more modest scale, would have been being implemented for the third year towards regional integration at the start. inconceivable without pressure from the running; its aims are to reinforce the This was also clearly reflected in the trade unions. technical competence of the trade unions various seminars organized by the Fried- From the start, the Foundation has on the various MERCOSUR commissions, rich-Ebert-Stiftung at the end of the 80s, been involved in the discussions about to bring about a greater measure of net- early 90s. But in the course of events regional integration amongst trade working and to increasingly mobilize people were forced to realize that this unions, and has contributed to them. In international experience. Another pro- process of integration could neither be a first phase, the possible implications ject with the “Comisión Sindical MER- halted nor reversed, but could at least be and effects of integration on trade union COSUR” is aimed at developing a greater influenced in individual areas. Having activities were analyzed. In a second political profile for the trade unions and realized this, trade unions began to move phase, efforts were made to bring to- at expanding the dialogue with other away from their diverging positions and gether the trade unions from sectors players in politics and society. ■
Brazil
Bolivia
Paraguay Chile
Argentina Uruguay
poster advocating socially-oriented Member states integration of markets in Latin America of MERCOSUR
33 Gender and Positive Action for Women ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
The gender approach is a partic- the agenda of women-specific discussion organization which rapidly grew to be- ipatory concept for planning and im- circles for the implementation of the UN come the leading lobby group for wom- plementation which focusses on both women’s rights convention in Egypt. en’s rights. It successfully used growing men and women in project activities. It competition between the political par- is the overriding objective of the gender IMPLEMENTING WOMEN’S ties in the election year 1994 for prop- approach thus to improve general socio- RIGHTS IN BOTSWANA agating women’s rights; both the gov- political conditions as to enable both ernment and opposition parties adopted women and men to equally share in the Women’s organizations still form the major elements of the “Women Manifes- economic, political and social develop- largest segment of Botswana’s civil so- to” which had been formulated under ments of their countries. In the de- ciety: they were initially oriented towards the leadership of Emang Basadi. After veloping world, the fundamental human providing services to their female clien- the elections, the Government appointed rights of women have been under attack tele whose legal status had been pre- a commission charged with scrutinizing time and again; discrimination often carious owing to blatantly discrimina- a number of extremely discriminatory jeopardizes the economic existence of tory elements in both the traditional and laws. the women concerned, as has been dem- the modern body of law. For example, In spite of this success, it was obvious onstrated by the project experience of even under modern law, married women that women’s rights could be promoted the Foundation in Kenya and Botswana. were being treated as minors under the by lobbying to a limited extent only, un- The furtherance of businesswomen in authority of their husbands. less the women’s movement had direct Egypt and of micro-businesses in Co- To provide advisory activities exclu- access to political decision-makers, in lombia is tailored to the specific needs of sively on the basis of existing laws there- particular in the legislature. Of the 44 particular groups of women. In Brazil, fore proved a rather limited exercise. By members elected to parliament in 1994 we are trying to support women in local consistently politizing women’s organi- no more than 4 were women, of whom and provincial administrations, while zations, a re-orientation took place – the two had not been elected in their con- activities in Tunisia benefit all female aim being to reduce widespread legal stituencies but appointed by the Presi- managers in equal measure. To realize discrimination against women by funda- dent. The proportion of women was a national policy of gender equality on mentally changing legislation. This was slightly higher, at 15 percent, in the dis- the basis of international agreements is a special concern of “Emang Basadi”, an trict councils. The idea behind the
empowering women economically: small crafts in Botswana and in Latin America
34 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
establishment of the Botswana Caucus GENDER ACTIVITIES BY THE means of publications and training of, of Women in Politics (BCWIP) has there- FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG IN for example, the Constitutional Reform fore been to mobilize women to become KENYA Commission, it is planned to amend the actively involved in politics and to assist legal foundations which have so far women politicians in their political work Like in many other African countries, restricted women in their personal and – in particular by making them aware of women are socially marginalized in political development. gender issues and supporting them in Kenya in many different ways and greatly These consultancy activities are joint actions. Cross-party cooperation disadvantaged by law when compared supplemented by measures appealing within the framework of BCWIP consti- to men. They have less opportunities, to a wider public on the same subject, for tutes a crucial element for success be- statistically speaking, of getting into example by the discussion of women- cause the small number of women politi- public and political office or positions of specific issues in cooperation with the cians could hardly develop into a critical leadership than even in many of the “Kenya Human Rights Commission”. mass. African neighbouring countries. For The Foundation’s office has support- example, no more than eight of the 222 BRAZIL: SUPPORTING WOMEN ed the establishment and first activities members of Parliament are women, and IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AT of the BCWIP since 1996 in different there is not a single female member in LOCAL AND STATE LEVEL ways. They include the funding of work- President Moi’s Cabinet. shops, a study tour to both the Bundes- It has to be noted, however, that the In recent years, considerable prog- tag (German Federal Parliament) and educational level of women has tradi- ress has been made in ensuring equal the provincial parliament of Northrhine- tionally been very low – with a literacy opportunities for women in politics and Westfalia, the training of women candi- rate of merely 19 percent of all women society. Almost all political parties and dates in parliamentary and district and a drop-out rate of 90 percent of all trade unions have introduced a quota council elections and some assistance in girls in primary education (figures from system with the result that more women furnishing the BCWIP office. 1989). Nevertheless, these data do not have been elected into political office. Although it is deplorable that an provide sufficient grounds to explain the They are nowadays better represented opposition party has so far failed to join current low representation of women in in public administrations than even a the BCWIP, this has not greatly hampered leadership. few years ago. The Friedrich-Ebert-Stif- its activities. It is true that the intention This inevitably brings into focus the tung has supported and promoted this of thoroughly preparing women candi- general political conditions that apply development by a large number of pro- dates for the election campaign and of equally to educated women in Kenya grammes. developing a joint platform was frustrat- when they try to stand on their own two Under the title “Gender in Public ed in the 1999 elections by unusually feet. Administrations”, the Foundation has late selection procedures in the political Against this background, the Fried- cooperated with equal opportunity offi- parties. Yet the fact that the number of rich-Ebert-Stiftung has introduced a pro- cers from six local governments and women members of Parliament doubled gramme to actively involve women and three state governments in the last few is not least to the credit of the BCWIP women’s groups in the process of socio- years. Practical problems were discussed which had complained about the lack of political development in Kenya. A great in a series of workshops and seminars female representation in the parties and number of educational and supporting and possible solutions suggested: what in public and had supported the 30- programmes therefore target the mem- does it mean to implement a pro-women, percent target established in Beijing. bership, equal opportunity officers and citizen-friendly policy in local govern- executive members of political parties in ment? What kind of projects and pro- order to draw up positive action plans grammes have had a positive effect? for women in cooperation with them. As What financial resources are available? part of these programmes, and also by And in particular: how can women assert
35 Gender and Positive Action for Women ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
themselves in their own administrative these gender programmes are, however, women for positions of leadership, the units and link up with male and female intended to be realized on a cross-party programme has developed in the colleagues in other departments and basis, thus contributing to the consoli- meantime into a pilot project. divisions? dation of a democratic political culture. In the course of a little less than three Almost all women participants had years, more than 250 women partici- WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP no or only limited experience in public pants have benefited from the programme IN TUNISIA administration before being appointed which is realized in the urban centres of “equal opportunity officers”; most of Since 1991, the Friedrich-Ebert-Stif- Tunisia. This advanced training pro- them had gained their political expe- tung has been cooperating closely with a gramme, with 20 women in each course, rience in party organizations and NGOs. regional network of autonomous wom- covers a whole range of different subjects. Initially, it was therefore a matter of en’s organizations which are actively A large majority of the participants are building up their self-confidence. This working for both legal and factual equali- working in higher management positions was especially emphasized in the joint ty of women in the Maghrib. However, in in private and State companies, in public evaluation: more self-confidence, crea- Tunisia, one of the few Arab countries administration and in banks. The course tivity, new initiatives and more courage known for its progressive legislation in teaches them various methods that help in solving the many practical problems. favour of women’s rights, the Foundation them in their career in an environment Concrete examples of successful has chosen a different approach: it is the which is not exactly “women-friendly”. policy concepts for the protection of aspect of women’s closer integration in- The fact that there is a great demand for women against violence, in health care, to economic life that is at the centre of its information is illustrated by the women´s in providing public infrastructure etc. activities in this country. Since 1996, in own initiative of organizing local dis- formed another major area of discussion, cooperation with its partner, the Tunisian cussion circles for the exchange of ex- which was supplemented by inviting Women’s Research and Documentation perience and the development of new women scientists and national women Centre (CREDIF), the Friedrich-Ebert- strategies for action in addition to the politicians to join the discussion. Stiftung has been organizing one-week training programme. In 1998-99, women participants advanced training courses for women in A political side effect of this pro- came exclusively from local and state leadership who come from private gramme is also worth mentioning: legal governments in which the “Partido dos businesses and public administration. and economic equality of women in the Trabalhadores” (labour party) was in Originally designed with the aim of im- Arab world functions as a defence against power. After further evaluation of results proving the qualifications of working fundamentalist tendencies.
gender activities with many facets: (from left to right) workshops in Egypt and in Tunisia
36 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
○○○○○○○ Gender and Positive Action for Women
FURTHERING BUSINESSWOMEN Within the framework of this project, at the same time more intensive (strong- IN EGYPT AND … cooperation with the “Business Women er bonds with the members) and more Association Dakhalia” in the Nile delta is broadly-based (more members). This is The business promotion project of playing a special part because this group planned to be done by promoting edu- the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in Egypt consists exclusively of women, some 30 cational programmes; their costs will be entails cooperation with various groups business-women and women managers. partly covered by contributions from the and associations of small and medium- They have separated from the male- women. sized businesses. It concentrates in prin- dominated assocation, which is also one Another important aspect is the rec- ciple on building up these associations of the Foundation’s partners, because ognition of this group in society by as part of the country’s civil society and they were disenchanted about the fact granting the women’s organization the on providing services for individual that their specific interests were in- same status that the other, male-domi- members and an interested public. To adequately represented by the men. nated, institutions enjoy in cooperation. gradually improve cooperation between There is a gender-specific aspect in In joint meetings, the men are told time these organizations themselves and to addition to the listed objectives: although and again that the input by women is reinforce their representative power is Egyptian women of the middle and upper equally important; as a result, the wom- another aim of the project; this will affect classes enjoy more liberties than women en’s group, which was initially met with not only the regional, but increasingly in other countries of the region, there is a pitying smile, is increasingly taken the supra-regional level as well. still a long way to go before they are seriously. There are ultimately two major ob- treated as equals. But first of all, the The striking fact about this process is jectives behind these activities: on the association had to be assisted in building that the women’s ideas are frequently one hand, to strengthen the small and up its organization, a process which has much more realistic than those of the medium-sized business sector in order been concluded by now. It was done by men. Their very practical proposals are to turn it into the backbone of the nation- means of advice, planning workshops, proof of this, for example on how to al economy in the future; on the other, by compiling a membership file and an acquire certain skills which they do not to contribute in the longer term to greater information brochure, and also by pro- yet have, such as learning English in the plurality, and consequently to democra- viding some material. In a second phase, case of businesswomen or how to use a tization of Egyptian society by reinforcing greater attention needs to be paid now computer. the groups’ representative power, in- to serving the interests of members in cluding their ability to lobby. order to initiate a development which is
women in Pakistan
37 Gender and Positive Action for Women ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
… MICRO-BUSINESSES IN household. In consequence, she is more grounds. Since the next national report COLOMBIA motivated to take care of the education about progress made with the con- and training of her children from a work- vention must be submitted in the year The majority of micro-businesses oriented viewpoint in order to be able to 2000, the Friedrich-Ebert -Stiftung has in Colombia are owned by men. Some employ them as qualified workers in the established a women-political dialogue 35 percent of these businesses are in business. forum in cooperation with various the hands of women. This is the sector ● The businesswoman also changes her NGOs and the media. This forum brings that is called “informal” in Latin Amer- attitude towards her husband and other together representatives of the Gov- ica because fiscal and social legislation, men. She becomes more independent, ernment, NGOs, the media and politi- health and safety regulations for the assumes more responsibilities and be- cians in order to discuss ways of im- workforce or provisions for environ- gins to practise what normally exists in plementing the convention and to pro- mental protection are applied even less the political platforms of parties only, ie, pose necessary changes in legislation. in this sector than elsewhere. equality. This effect of development is There are a total of 11 forums, at which It is especially those women who not without conflict. But the resulting various issues are being discussed. The are solely responsible for raising their tension also empowers her to break very fact that Government and NGO children, managing the business and down further the traditional hierarchies representatives sit together at the same providing the most important labour between men and women. table is quite a success in itself. More- input for it who feel the strain most ● Women entrepreneurs become more over, owing to the forum’s contribution, acutely. interested in getting involved in local some of these issues are now being The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung has politics, in taking part in decisions that addressed in both a public and political concentrated on this target group as affect their neighbourhood and thus the debate: part of its Colombian programme since place where they live. ● The women quota which was the eighties. This project has been im- abolished in 1986 has never been plemented under the title “marketing DISCUSSION CIRCLES declared unconstitutional and could consultancy” because it included or- ON WOMEN’S ISSUES FOR therefore be brought back on the ganizational assistance for this sector IMPLEMENTING THE UN-WOMEN’S agenda. of the economy, the creation of net- RIGHTS CONVENTION IN EGYPT ● Court rulings in cases of adultery, works amongst micro-businesses in a for which penalties are more severe for region, and also improved links between The international women’s rights women than for men, have been dis- the businesses, the local chambers of convention CEDAW was adopted by the cussed with judges. commerce, regional development banks UN-General Assembly in 1979. It went ● The various forms of violence against and State promotion schemes. into force in 1981 and has been ratified women (such as rape by husbands, Businesswomen represented 40% by 139 states in the meantime. Under genital mutilation) have been brought of this programme. The Foundation the convention, these states have com- to the notice of government agencies. was not, however, interested only in mitted themselves to abolish all forms of ● The law on births, marriages and providing technical advice and pro- discrimination against women in all deaths should not be based exclusively moting this large number of women, sectors of public, political, economic and on religious grounds because it prevents but took into account the sociological cultural life. This commitment applies married women, for example, from effect of the entire programme. In fact, not only to public life, but also to the leaving the country unless their hus- such effects can be observed in the private domain, in particular the family. bands consent. Existing regulations following: Egypt has signed the convention, but make it practically impossible for wom- ● The programme first of all changes expressed reservations about some of en to get a divorce, while it is very easy the role of the woman in her own its articles on religious and political for men to divorce their wives. ■
38 ○○○○○○○○○○○○ Human Rights ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Democracy, social justice and soli- Government under Olusegun Obasanjo office of General Sani Abacha (1993- darity are at the centre of socio-political to establish an inquiry commission 1998) have not yet been investigated or activities of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung charged with revealing human rights disclosed. It will probably take years to and are ultimately always regarded as abuses perpetrated under previous mil- come to terms with the past. This applies human rights activities as well. By itary governments since 1966. Its es- equally to new criminal offences of which supporting the development of a culture tablishment has finally caused even the the police is currently reproached. based on the rule of law and democracy, judiciary to take seriously reports to the Since 1976, the Friedrich-Ebert-Stif- the Foundation is attempting to con- police about human rights violations tung has had an office in Lagos. As a tribute to better general conditions for and to prosecute them. However, all the result, the Foundation has cooperated respecting human rights in all parts of crimes committed during the term of more intensively with human rights and the world. After years of military rule, human THE HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD OF THE FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG rights once again stand a good chance in Nigeria. To resolve the problems re- Since 1994, the Human Rights Previous award-winners have been: sulting from the transition to a demo- Award of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Marie Schlei Verein (1994); Prof. Dr. cratic form of society is a crucial task in has gone to individuals or organizations Ewa Letowska,ç Parliamentary Commis- this country. In Ecuador, the Friedrich- that have rendered outstanding ser- sioner for Citizens, Poland (1995); Presi- Ebert-Stiftung supports existing human vices in the enforcement of human dent Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigeria (1996); rights organizations in their activities rights. The award is funded from a Father Petar Andelovic´ OFM, Bosnia and assists them in building up a func- legacy of Ida and Karl Feist, a couple (1997); Omar Belhouchet, Editor-in-Chief tioning network. In Colombia, attention from Hamburg. It was the legators’ in- of the Daily Newspaper “Al watan”, Al- in society needs to be concentrated on tention to pay tribute less to spectacular geria (1998), Kailash Satyarthi, inter- the concept of fundamental human rights successes, but rather to the tedious and national co-ordinator of the “Worldwide under conditions which are still com- persistent broadly-based activities for March against Child Labour”, India parable to civil war. The “National Peace the benefit of human rights, human (1999) and the Committees of Soldiers’ Award” constitutes a useful step in this dignity and peace which help to fight Mothers of Russia (2000). direction. Efforts of introducing a hu- the causes of violence and injustice. man rights culture in Peru are meant to improve, in particular, the ability to act on the part of the national association of Peruvian human rights organizations.
TO HELP PROTECT HUMAN RIGHTS IN NIGERIA
It is only a few months ago that Nigeria finally ended 16 years of military dictatorship. The most populous country of Africa is now being ruled by a legit- imately-elected civilian government and has thus been given another opportunity for lasting democratization. It has been one of the most re- markable measures taken by the new Human Rights Award-winner 1999: Kailash Satyarthi
39 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Human Rights ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
“THE NATIONAL PEACE AWARD” IN COLOMBIA
“Mogotes – a beacon of hope” said the inhabitants, which had started so prevention of violent attacks in the course the press commentaries about the winner dynamically, have continued to this very of armed conflict. of the first National Peace Award pre- day. The military, paramilitary and As was said in a number of press sented by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung guerrillas began to respect the commu- commentaries after the award ceremony, in Colombia on October 28th, 1999. nity and did not dare to attack again. the experience of Mogotes functions as a The award-winner, the small town With the Peace Award, Mogotes laboratory in which one can study how of Mogotes, had proved that the map of stands out as a model for all those in the postulates of an enlightened political Colombia was not entirely soaked in Colombia who wish to ensure lasting philosophy can take effect in a village in blood: there also existed a car- the midst of violent fighting. Di- tography of peace. The inhabi- rect democracy based on the rule tants of Mogotes in Santander, of law, guaranteeing constant it was said, had supplied proof participation of and advice for of the fact that participation and the citizens, is a successful con- direct democracy was the best cept against corruption and for protection against violence. peace and development, it was After a guerrilla attack by said. the group ELN, in which police- It became clear during the men and civilians were killed award ceremony and the subse- and the mayor kidnapped alleg- quent concert that Mogotes is edly for corruption, the inhab- not the only hope-inspiring case itants of Mogotes had united, in Colombia. The jury, which together with the diocesan was appointed from different administration, to form a “Sov- segments of the population, had ereign Municipality” (an en- to select a candidate from some tity permissible under the 1991 280 applications from all parts Constitution) in order to en- of the country. All of them together force the release of their may- represent a cartography of peace or. The guerrilla was so much which often remains hidden be- impressed by their demon- hind the daily pictures of conflict. stration of unity and participa- The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung tion that it handed back the in Colombia (FESCOL) was able mayor. Some time later, the to win the most important print local people uncovered irreg- media of the country as coor- ularities in the work of the ganizers of the award. The total released and removed him costs for both the award, some from office. They drew up an 50,000.– DM, and the ceremony integral development project, Peace Award document – presented for the first time in 1999 were shared between them. The which involved the whole community, peace by means of participation and the FESCOL initiative was made possible by and thus improved the social conditions rule of law. The people of Mogotes proved a donation from the WAZ (one of Ger- of life in their small locality. The that democracy is the best method for many’s print media) founder’s widow, participation and practised solidarity of the settlement of conflicts and for the Anneliese Brost.
40 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○Human Rights
democracy groups since the end of the contribute to its success since we had amnesty laws benefiting the perpetrators eighties and this became the focal point gained their trust during the years of on the part of the State, maintaining the of its activities during the years of the dictatorship. state of emergency in some rural prov- Abacha dictatorship. The Foundation Under the Obasanjo-Government, the inces and the concerns of displaced was one of the few international organi- office in Lagos will intensify cooperation persons. zations in the country offering opponents with organizations committed to demo- The “Coordinadora Nacional de Der- of the regime a public platform in which cratic consolidation and the implemen- echos Humanos” (National Human human rights abuses and totalitarian tation of human rights. Rights Coordination Body, CNDDHH) – a government practices could be criticized. national apex organization with 61 affi- The Foundation’s office was able to ON THE ROAD TOWARDS A liates from different parts of Peru – is maintain contacts through informal HUMAN RIGHTS CULTURE IN PERU playing a crucial part in human rights channels between imprisoned dissidents activities. Authoritarian organizational and sympathizing organizations in Ger- Human rights violations are systemic structures which are dominating the many and Europe. The Human Rights in Peru. Out-dated ideas about the use of country and lack of solidarity amongst Award, which the Foundation in Ger- political force, authoritarian and ver- the people are major problems faced by many presents once a year, in 1996 tically-organized structures in State and both CNDDHH and its affiliates. The honoured Obasanjo who was in prison society, no rule of law and non-existent population usually tends to disregard all at the time. division of power, and also strong social efforts to investigate the effects of Owing to this unambiguous stance in fragmentation, combined with elements terrorism. favour of human rights and democratic of discrimination, create a climate in With technical support from the reforms, the Nigerian security forces in- which the protection of human rights is Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, CNDDHH has creasingly put pressure not only on our neither desired by the State nor de- succeeded this year in openly addressing partners but also on our staff. Seminars manded to any great extent by society. its problems and developing a working were disturbed or prohibited and par- In addition, Peru must still come to terms strategy. The Foundation organized a ticipants arrested. with the problems created by internal total of five workshops for the CNDDHH- The sudden death of dictator Abacha fighting against guerrilla groups, such executive secretariat, and some of the and the democratization programme of as “Sendero Luminoso”, during the affiliated organizations also took part. his successor contributed to a better period from 1980 to 1995 which continue The purpose of the workshops was, on political climate. Our partners invited us to prevent the acceptance and guarantee the one hand, to define common values to assist in the transition process and to of human rights. These problems include and principles which would form the
newspaper clipping: Peace Award for the town of Mogotes human rights are indivisible: Latin America
41
○○○○○○○○○○○○ ○○○○○
Human Rights ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
basis for the functioning of this heter- The activities of the Friedrich- ical spectrum of Sudan, ranging from ogeneous national body and would Ebert- Stiftung in the various countries the Islamists to the political Left, and enable CNDDHH to break away from the of the South in this field are as diverse also all the technical disciplines con- traditional structures in society. On the as the demands on environmental poli- cerned are represented, as are the most other, a common vision was developed cy in general: In Sudan, an “environ- important groups in society: government for the period until the year 2005 as a mental parliament” has been set up servants and academics, representatives frame of reference for successful oper- with the aim of demonstrating both the of the farmers, shepherds and craftsmen. ations. At the same time, the institutional necessity of and the opportunities for a Prominent women are actively involved. structures were re-oriented and ex- national environmental policy. In the Unfortunately, Sudanese from the South panded, the situation and tasks of the Egyptian national economy, an analysis are not yet well represented. organization’s various units clearly of the flow of materials is to help the Immediately following its constitu- described and its position within the country on the Nile to come to terms tion, the Environmental Forum set out overall human rights environment de- with its environmental problems and to formulate the basic concept of a na- termined.These measures are intended to use its natural resources more tional environmental plan. The Founda- to promote cohesion within the organi- efficiently. In the Amazonian region, tion promised financial support for the zation and to increase its efficiency and sustainable development is primarily project. In 1995, renowned scientists of credibility. promoted with the aim of demonstrat- the Forum worked out a draft document, In the years to come, we will cooper- ing to public administrations and on a voluntary basis, which was pre- ate in Peru with the local committees of influential social groups alike the ad- sented to the Minister for Environment the human rights organizations, in vantages of carefully managing the and Tourism. After it has been submitted addition to the national body, in order to natural wealth of the region. In Central to the Council of Ministers and the Parlia- support the grass roots activities of these America, the Foundation contributes ment, the Ministry for Environment and groups for the benefit of democracy. ■ to the protection of biodiversity by ad- Tourism is now charged with drawing vising on legislation that sets the trends up a national environmental plan. for future developments. Since then, the Forum has many times been called the “Environmental SUDAN: AN ENVIRONMENTAL Parliament”, albeit off the record, because PARLIAMENT IS FUNCTIONING IN in order to escape political repressions, SPITE OF POLITICAL REPRESSION it does not wish to give the impression of being an extra-parliamentary opposi- In 1994, the Sudanese “Environ- tion or competition to the Parliament mental Society” (SECS), together with itself. However, it has made a name for the “Higher Council for the Environ- itself as an organization of the civil society ment and Natural Resources” and in because it addresses issues of importance cooperation with the Friedrich-Ebert- to the entire nation, such as “poverty Stiftung, invited respected socially- and the environment” or “decentraliza- active citizens and experts to a meeting tion and the environment”. The Forum with the aim of determining the basic organizes public lectures outside the features of a national environmental capital Khartoum as well and implements plan. small-scale projects aimed at eradicating More than 50 individuals followed poverty. Under the management of five the invitation and founded an environ- individuals, including one woman, it mental forum. Today, the entire polit- supports the establishment of further
42 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Protection of the Environment and of Resources
environmental forums in the capitals of mal-husbandry or uncontrolled exploi- the country’s federal states and prov- tation of the rich resources of timber inces. The Foundation is actively in- and raw materials, pose an acute threat volved in the planning and implemen- to the natural foundations of life and do tation of activities by the Environmental not, in fact, improve the economic and Forum – an important body of one of our social conditions of the large majority most active partners – and sits on the of the Amazonian population. Steering Committee of the sub-project Against this background, the project “Environment and Poverty”. attempts to create the political and so- cial conditions for sustainable develop- PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE ment in selected territories in the region DEVELOPMENT IN AMAZONIA – including not only the Brazilian part of Amazonia, but also the smaller The regional project of the Founda- neighbouring countries of Bolivia, Peru, tion “Sustainable Development in Ama- Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela. The zonia” is inspired by the idea of combin- aim is to transform the existing political ing sustainable development and the and social culture into a democratic improvement of general economic and culture of dialogue. The project con- social conditions and of translating them tributes to this by bringing together the into concrete policies. The aim of the political and social players from the project is to contribute to political and selected territories and by offering them social conditions under which a broad- the opportunity of reflecting and dis- ly-based consultation process can be cussing options of sustainable develop- initiated between political institutions, ment. In addition, it assists them in the civil society and private enterprise in building up networks of activists who are order to arrive at consensual agreements aware of the social and ecological prob- about the options in sustainable de- lems inherent in the currently dom- velopment. inating economic activities and who These conditions are almost non- take it on themselves to draw up concepts existent in the Amazonian region at pres- and strategies of sustainable develop- ent. On the contrary: the region stands ment for their region or community. In for both institutional under-develop- individual cases, it may also be necessary ment and a political culture which is to to improve the ability of socially-weak a great extent conflict-ridden – an ex- groups to articulate their interests and to pression of the fact that the democrati- act, or to improve the administrative zation processes in the political and and technical capacity of local institu- urban centres of Latin America have not tions. A programme for improving the yet reached the dense forests along the political and technical capabilities of the Amazon river. Local tribal chiefs and City Government of Rio Branco, capital powerful clans still dominate the com- of the Brazilian Federal State of Acre, munities and territories there and behave proved to be particularly effective, and as if they owned them. Economic activ- has been expanded to the State Gov- ities, such as subsidized extensive ani- ernment of Acre in the meantime.
43 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Protection of the Environment and of Resources ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
There will be no sound basis for tices”. The project therefore offers in- The project is also contributing to these local efforts of finding the right terested groups information and educa- better concepts and mechanisms for approach of sustainable development, tion by providing systematic data about ecological and social certification. For however, unless these development op- successful economic models, which have example in Bolivia, information is made tions – integrating both ecological and proved to be compatible with ecological available about certification processes social aspects – are also economically and social objectives, and instructions for timber and the Brazil nut, and ex- viable. This is why it is another important on how to adapt them to local conditions. perience in connection with the “green function of the project to establish if and This applies, for example, to the exchange labels” shared with the Amazonian re- how the natural potential of Amazonia of experience about the commercial gion, thus increasing the interest in can be used economically without jeop- processing of natural plants between opening up new markets for certified ardizing its regeneration and neglecting Peru and Ecuador or Colombia, and also products. Efforts are being made to ren- social progress. The most appropriate know-how about Cajú cultivation passed der certification processes more trans- method for this is to apply “best prac- on from Brazilian Acre to Bolivian Pando. parent and attractive for indigenous
ANALYZING THE FLOW OF MATERIALS IN THE EGYPTIAN NATIONAL ECONOMY
Sustainable development requires to these data. Materials intensity of the construction sectors. Egypt’s level of that operational policy targets and Egyptian economy in proportion to Gross ecological sustainability is therefore very indicators be established below the National Product, however, amounts to low. These results have been taken into general economic, social and ecological no more than 8 percent of the level of account in the first national environ- levels. Ecological sustainability can be Germany. In other words: in order to mental report and form the basis for achieved by conserving natural resourc- produce one unit of the National Product, developing concrete programmes aimed es. The consumption of raw materials Egypt uses 13 times more materials at improving resource productivity. In in an economy can be used as a rough than Germany. This is due to major in- the industrial region of Helwan, the local indicator in this process. efficiencies in water management and university is cooperating with Egypt’s The methodology developed by the in the energy-producing, transport and largest steel producer. Wuppertal Institute for analyzing the flow of materials and global materials input was presented in Egypt for the first tetrahedron of sustainability: key indicators time in February 1998. Subsequently, institutional the Centre for Studies on Developing indicator Countries of Cairo University did a survey
on the basis of the Wuppertal concept tax revenues for labour, capital indicator indicator for and consumption of nature with support from the Friedrich-Ebert- for gender international equity equity Stiftung. First results were submitted to economic the appropriate decision-makers in Cai- ro in February 1999. They calculated a direct materials input of 7 tons per ca- distribution of materials input poverty and wealth pita for the year 1995. In an internatio- nal comparison, Egypt’s input (ie, the amount of raw materials extracted or nature reserves transport expenditure extended harvested plus the amount of imports) is (protected) unemployment still significantly below the values for ecological social
Germany (20 tons per capita) according Institut 1997 Joachim Spangenberg, Wuppertal Kerstin Deller, Source:
44 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○Protection of the Environment and of Resources
communities, cooperatives and small PROTECTING BIODIVERSITY An important step forward has been businesses, and at the same time to IN CENTRAL AMERICA taken since discussions on this issue are formulate certification standards in more increasingly combined with new and precise and more binding terms, in The complex issue of sustainable innovative concepts for the protection particular their social components development is being discussed at very and the use of biological diversity. (compliance with labour law standards, different levels in Central America and is In parallel to efforts by State author- social minimum standards). It is im- playing a special role now that it has ities, a large number of organizations of portant in this context to bring together been made part of the efforts towards the civil society have started to develop the trade union organizations of the regional integration. This is expressed their own concepts in these fields and to timbermen, timber companies, certifica- in the fact that a “Central American present them jointly and in a coordinated tion agencies and government institu- Alliance for Sustainable Development” manner to the body politic. The Fried- tions as part of a constructive dialogue. has been set up at the highest level by the rich-Ebert-Stiftung has promoted this In December 1997, a promising start presidents of the countries concerned. process at two levels: was made with a conference or- ● The emerging network of or- ganized by the Foundation in the ganizations of the civil society – provincial capital Belem in Brazil- ranging from peasants’ move- ian Amazonia. ments, environmental organiza- To initiate and to maintain tions to associations of the Indian processes that promote sustain- population – has been supported able development depends, in the in the drawing-up of its own final analysis, on the commitment concepts of sustainable develop- of individuals who have the ment, in particular in connection necessary political, technical and with biodiversity. Three inter- communicative skills. Such “pro- national forums since 1997 have moters” already exist in several offered an opportunity of com- locations, but they often lack es- prehensively analyzing relevant sential features of the required case studies and of exchanging profile. To educate and to train information. This process culmi- persons suitable for the role of nated in an independent pro- “promoter” therefore forms a posal for the formulation of the central part of the project. What “Central American Charter for counts is their communicative the Use of Genetic and Bio- skills, their qualification as mod- chemical Resources”. Consulta- erators and the ability to think tions at the highest level in Cen- and act in a planning-oriented, tral America were thus supple- strategic and systematic manner. mented by a wide range of expert To establish a network between knowledge and input contributed the graduates of these courses by the civil society. and to re-invite them continuously ● An essential contribution can for further training is another also be expected from the “Act objective in this context. on Biodiversity” – the first one of its kind worldwide – adopted by Costa Rica in 1998. In a broadly- tree-felling in Bazil based discussion process, a large
45 Protection of the Environment Organizational Structure of the Friedrich- and of Resources
number of State institutions and organi- zations of the civil society were given an opportunity of presenting their views so that the law could be passed in a relatively short time. It was cultural and social aspects, in particular, that were empha- sized by this law. This was possible because, owing to support by the Fried- Political Education rich-Ebert-Stiftung, organizations of the
environmental movement, the peasants’ Member of the Academy of Socio-Political Dialogue East Germany Executive Board Political Education Information movement and the association of the Uwe Ziegler Christel Nickel-Mayer Prof. Dr. Thomas Meyer Frank D. Karl (Academic Director) Indian population all agreed to coordi- Coordination Women and Society Reinhard Weil nate their actions and were supplied (Executive Director) with the necessary scientific expertise
and organizational capabilities. In Press and Information Academies Political Education in Forum ”Politics and Division * Northrhine-Westfalia, Society“ * Kurt Schumacher Academy addition to the content-related scientific Klaus-Peter Schneider (Bonn) Hesse and (Bad Münstereifel) Forum Berlin * Rhineland-Palatinate aspects of the law, the lawmaking process Peter Donaiski (Berlin) Alfred Nau Academy Offices at Provincial Levels (Bergneustadt) Regional Discussion Circles itself can be seen as a major success and Berlin ** Centralized Services * Gustav Heinemann Academy (Freudenberg) an important experience with new forms Offices at Provincial Levels Brandenburg (Potsdam) Dr. Michael Domitra Fritz Erler Academy Mecklenburg-West ■ Lower Saxony (Hannover) of citizen participation. (Freudenstadt) Pomerania (Schwerin) Auditing* Georg von Vollmar Academy Rhineland-Palatinate (Mainz) Saxony Heiner Naumann reg. assocn (Kochel am See) Saarland (Saarbrücken) (Dresden, Leipzig, Chemnitz) Society for Political Education, Elisabeth Selbert Akademy Saxony-Anhalt reg. assocn (Academy (Magdeburg) Frankenwarte, Würzburg) Women’s Issues Thuringia (Erfurt)
Regional Offices Political Education / Local Julius-Leber-Forum (Hamburg, Politics ** Bremen, Schleswig-Holstein) BayernForum (Munich) Regensburg
Academy Discussion Circles/ Inter Cultural Dialogue ** Dr. Johannes Kandel
Academy “Management and Politics”
Media Academy Journalists‘ Academy Online Academy
Editorial Department “Neue Gesellschaft / Frankfurter Hefte”
* under direct control of the Executive Board ** these organizational units are in parts or entirely located in Berlin
46 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Ebert-Stiftung○○○○
General Meeting of the Association of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Executive Board President: Holger Börner Vice-Presidents: Anke Fuchs Board of Trustees Ernst Breit Member of the Executive Board and Secretary General: Dr. Jürgen Burckhardt
International Coorperation Scientific Activities General Administration
International International Dialogue Scholarships Historical Research Research and Administration and Personnel and Cooperation Centre Consultative Centre Accounting Social Affairs Dr. Uwe Optenhögel Dr. Friedrich-Wilhelm Witt for Economic and Dr. Gerhard Fischer Lothar Hüttemeister Dr. Ernst-J. Kerbusch Deputy: Dr. Manuela Erhart Prof. Dr. Dieter Dowe Social Policy Deputy: Dr. Joachim Schubert Deputy: Dr. Jürgen Brummel Dr. Jochem Langkau
Liason Office for International Relations* German Scholarships Social- and Contemporary Economic Policy Controlling and Personnel / inland History Organization Africa Western Industrialized Foreign Scholarships Labour and Social Policy Solaries and collectively- Countries Archive of Social Information Technology negotiated benefits / Asia and Pacific Consultative Tuition and Democracy Technology and Society inland Central and Eastern Europe Follow-up contacts Bookkeeping Latin America and Caribbean Library Personnel / international International Conference Centre Project accounts / inland Middle East, North Africa Politics Analysis ** Venusberg Karl-Marx-House Trier Technical services / Project accounts / building management Editorial Staff Institute for Social international Bonn Development Policy ** “International Politics History reg. assocn, Cross-Divisional Activities: and Society” Brunswick/Bonn Administration / Procurement/ Construction Gender/Positive Action Trade Union Coordination for Women for Industrialized Countries Human Rights Globalization Editorial Staff “Eurokolleg” Follow-up Contacts Evaluation
Coordination Trade Union Activities International Economic and Social Development Media and Communication
47 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Addresses in Germany ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Division of International Department for Latin America Godesberger Allee 149 Cooperation and the Caribbean D-53170 Bonn Head: Dr. Ernst-J. Kerbusch Head: Peter Hengstenberg Tel.: +49(0)228 883-0 Tel.: +49(0)228 883-522 Tel.: +49(0)228 883-694 Fax: +49(0)228 883-696 Fax: +49(0)228 883-696 Fax: +49(0)228 883-404 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Department for Africa trade union /gender coordination: Hiroshimastr. 17 Head: Dr. Volker Vinnai Dr. Achim Wachendorfer D-10785 Berlin Tel.: +49(0)228 883-576 Tel.: +49(0)228 883-573 Tel.: +49(0)30 26935-6 Fax: +49(0)228 883-623 e-mail: [email protected] Fax: +49(0)30 26935-853 e-mail: [email protected] Trade Union Coordination trade union coordination: International Hubert René Schillinger N.N. Tel.: +49(0)228 883-582 Tel.: +49(0)228 883-517 e-mail: [email protected] Department for Development Policy gender coordination: Head: Christiane Kesper Evelyn Ehrlinspiel-Ponath Tel.: +49(0)30 26935-918 Tel.: +49(0)228 883-581 Fax: +49(0)30 26935-959 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]
Department for the Cross-Divisional Activities: Middle East/North Africa Head / trade union coordination coordination gender/women’s issues: international: Astrid Ritter-Weil N.N. Tel.: +49(0)228 883-603 Tel.: +49(0)228 883-517 e-mail: [email protected] Fax: +49(0)228 883-696 human rights: Peter Schlaffer Tel.: +49(0)228 883-607 gender coordination: e-mail: [email protected] Dr. Werner Puschra Tel.: +49(0)228 883-0 globalization: Dr. Ernst Hillebrand e-mail: [email protected] Tel.: +49(0)228 883-604 e-mail: [email protected] Department for Asia and the Pacific Head: Dr. Beate Bartoldus follow-up contacts: Ursula Hoffstadt Tel.: +49(0)228 883-515 Tel.: +49(0)228 883-608 Fax: +49(0)228 883-575 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]
trade union coordination: Erwin Schweisshelm Tel.: +49(0)228 883-511 e-mail: [email protected]
gender coordination: Roland Feicht Tel.: +49(0)228 883-506 e-mail: [email protected]
48