World
Activist tackles China over alleged forced repatriation of North-Koreans
A North Korean defector who fled the country when he was 17, Ilhyeok Kim
has knocked China after reports emerged that the Chinese government allegedly willy-nilly returned more than 500 North Korean defectors.
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council meeting held in August, Kim
alleged that defectors sent back to North Korea were made to suffer series of punishments including forced labor, imprisonment, torture, or execution.
In a brief chat with newsmen to commemorate the Korea National Day Reception held in Abuja on November 2, the North Korean defector who currently resides in South Korea called on the Republic of China to uphold its obligations as a permanent member of the United Nations.
According to him, China subscribed to the 1982 Refugee Convention which prohibits the expulsion or return of refugees to places where their lives or freedom may be threatened. Moreover, Kim said that China also signed the 1988 Convention Against Torture banning expulsion and return to countries where there is a risk of torture.
Emphasis on the fact that North Korean defectors are recognized as refugees under these international law was made by Kim, he however expressed dismayed that the Chinese government refused to acknowledge them as such which he claimed is obviously in violation of international law.
When deported, Kim disclosed that defectors are often subjected to forced labour in re-education camps or correctional facilities, where they barely survive while enduring harsh treatments.
“In many cases, they are taken to political prisoner camps and never get to see the outside world again, even until death. Even worse, some might face public executions by way of exemplary punishment to the public. One of the serious offenses in North Korea is called a “betrayal of the party and the homeland” which can lead to a public execution, serving as violent means by the party to force loyalty to the regime”, he added.
The Alleged Forced Repatriation is in contrast to the Mutual aid and cooperation treaty which the China Authority ratified with North Korea since 1961, Kim noted further.
In Spite of international condemnation, Kim lamented that the China Government has continued to ignore the human rights agreement it signed.
Kim called on the South Korean government and international community;
“The remaining 2,000 or so North Korean refugees who are at imminent risk of forced repatriation by the Chinese regime should be allowed to reach any places on their own will. The approximately 600 defectors who have already been repatriated likely face severe realities.
“The South Korean government and the international community must collaborate to ensure that the remaining North Korean defectors in China can find freedom. If we do not make efforts and simply stand by, many innocent people will die while gazing at the same sky we see. North Korean refugees can live one more ordinary day like.
World
AI Revolution: How 92 Million Jobs Will Disappear and 78 Million Will Emerge by 2030
The future of work is undergoing a seismic shift as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integral to global industries. A new report from the World Economic Forum (WEF) reveals that 92 million jobs, representing 8% of the global workforce, are expected to be displaced by 2030 due to advancements in AI.
While this statistic may sound alarming, the report offers a glimmer of hope: 170 million new jobs are projected to emerge, leading to a net growth of 78 million jobs globally. However, the transition won’t be seamless.
Key sectors like graphic design and legal administration are already witnessing a wave of automation, with generative AI tools replacing traditional roles. Employers worldwide are feeling the pressure to adapt. According to the WEF, 41% of employers plan to downsize, citing AI’s ability to handle complex tasks more efficiently than humans.
Despite these disruptions, the report emphasizes the potential of AI to revolutionize industries positively. AI and big data top the list of in-demand skills, followed by networks, cybersecurity, and technology literacy. Employers are responding by prioritizing retraining, with 77% committing to upskill their workforce for AI integration.
The WEF warns that the road to this AI-driven future requires careful planning. Millions of workers lack the skills needed to transition to these emerging roles, posing a significant challenge. Without comprehensive support systems, the economic and social impact of job displacement could be severe.
“While technology will enhance productivity, equipping workers with the necessary skills is crucial to ensuring no one is left behind,” the report concludes.
As the AI revolution accelerates, the focus must shift to preparing the workforce for a rapidly changing landscape—transforming what could be a crisis into an opportunity.
World
Malawi Ex-Minister, Four Others Arrested in $250 Million Fraud Scandal
Former finance minister Joseph Mwanamveka and four other former government officials have been apprehended by Malawi’s police for their involvement in an alleged embezzlement scheme worth around $250 million.
The funds are said to have been misappropriated from two state-owned enterprises, Salima Sugar Company and Greenbelt Initiative.
Those arrested include former secretary to the president Lloyd Muhara, former treasury secretary Cliff Chiunda, and Collins Magalasi, the former CEO of Malawi’s energy regulatory authority. The arrests are coming after a 2023 audit of Salima Sugar revealed massive mismanagement of funds.
In total, nine individuals have now been arrested in connection with the fraud, with authorities still pursuing Henry Njoloma, the former acting CEO of Greenbelt Initiative, who remains on the run.
The five arrested on Monday will be brought before a court of law once police complete their statements.
The accused officials served under the presidency of Peter Mutharika from 2014 to 2020. Following Mutharika’s ouster in 2020, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) transitioned into the opposition, while President Lazarus Chakwera’s government took over.
World
39th US president Jimmy Carter dies at 100
The 39th president of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize laureate,Jimmy Carter has passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind an enduring legacy of leadership, humanitarian service, and moral integrity.
Carter’s remarkable journey from a peanut farmer in Plains, Georgia, to the Oval Office epitomized the American dream.
Elected in 1976, he championed human rights, brokered the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, and tackled domestic challenges with honesty and resilience. Despite facing setbacks such as the Iran hostage crisis and economic difficulties, Carter’s single term in office laid the groundwork for policies that emphasized peace and social justice.
While his presidency was met with mixed reviews, Carter’s post-presidential life earned widespread admiration. In 1982, he established the Carter Center, which became a global force for democracy, health, and conflict resolution.
His efforts earned him the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing his tireless work to alleviate suffering and promote fairness worldwide.
Carter’s dedication extended beyond politics. A devout Christian, he spent decades teaching Sunday school and embodying values of faith, humility, and service.
His advocacy for affordable housing through Habitat for Humanity showcased his belief in empowering the less fortunate.
The loss of his wife, Rosalynn, in November 2023 marked the end of a 77-year partnership defined by mutual love and commitment to humanitarian causes.
Even in grief, Carter’s devotion to family and faith remained steadfast.
Carter’s legacy as a statesman, peacemaker, and advocate for human dignity will continue to inspire generations.
His life reminds the world that leadership grounded in compassion and integrity can leave an indelible mark on history.
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