Displaying items by tag: social justice

Labour’s welfare reform bill was plunged into turmoil after the government dropped plans to tighten eligibility for PIP, one of its core cost-saving measures. Facing fierce backlash and the threat of a major rebellion, Disability minister Sir Stephen Timms announced that changes to PIP would be delayed pending a full review, co-produced with disabled people. The last-minute concession has caused confusion among MPs, leaving uncertainty over the bill’s financial viability. Despite earlier compromises, numerous Labour MPs remain opposed, warning the reforms could deepen poverty and harm disabled people. Emotional speeches in Parliament underscored divisions, with some MPs moved to tears as they denounced the bill as unjust. Critics argue the concessions feel rushed and insufficient, while government ministers insist reforms are vital to sustain the welfare system. Poverty impact assessments indicate that even with changes, around 150,000 more people could be pushed into poverty by 2030. The fate of the bill remains uncertain as further votes loom and disquiet grows within Labour ranks.

Camila Batmanghelidjh, the founder of Kids Company and a prominent social justice campaigner, passed away at 61. Known for her significant contributions to supporting deprived and vulnerable inner-city children, she started Kids Company in 1996 in South London, reaching up to 36,000 young people. Although she stepped down in 2015 amid allegations of mismanagement, she was later cleared of any wrongdoing by the High Court. Batmanghelidjh, who had been ill for some time, passed away peacefully in her sleep on 1 January, her birthday. She was remembered for her unwavering dedication to Britain's most vulnerable children, spending her last Christmas wrapping presents for them. Born in Iran and arriving in England at 12, she overcame significant personal challenges and achieved a first-class degree from the University of Warwick. She was recognised for her vibrant personality and influence, rubbing shoulders with politicians and celebrities like David Cameron and Coldplay, and her impact on social welfare and child support remains significant. Steve Chalke, Baptist minister and founder of Oasis Charitable Trust, said he would ever be grateful to Ms Batmanghelidjh, 'for her wisdom and depth of love for children'.

Las Vegas is one of five cities participating in a new nationwide programme to reduce chronic homelessness by 20%. Deacon Thomas Roberts said that a partnership will simultaneously tackle shelter issues and the root causes of chronic homelessness - mental health and addiction. ‘We think that it is important to recognise the reasons why people have become chronically homeless and to address those issues. I think that is where we can effect really meaningful change.’ Within five years, the project hopes to have built 100 homes: Roberts said this will be enough to support 20% of the 500+ people who have been homeless for at least two years. There will be mental health offices in the housing units or transportation to locations off site. The homeless don’t have transportation, so resources need to be accessible, otherwise you have not addressed the underlying cause of what got them homeless.

President Trump calls the ‘migrant caravan’ an invasion of the USA. . A desperate 2,600-mile walk from Honduras with children and a few possessions is an odd invasion. Honduras has suffered much since President Hernández’s fraud-marred re-election in 2017. As resistance to him persists, scores are killed by government security forces. Also gangs and drug trafficking cause one of the highest rates of homicide. Some are fleeing not because of crime or political oppression, but because of economic inequity and lack of opportunity. Scripture says we should care for the widow, the orphan, and the stranger. Pope Francis said, ‘It is hypocrisy to call yourself Christian and chase away refugees, those seeking help, someone who is hungry or thirsty. If I say I am Christian, but do these things, I am a hypocrite.’

The 18th International Anti-Corruption Conference brought together 1,800+ delegates from civil society, governments, multilateral agencies, and the private sector. They came from 144 countries to exchange ideas and experiences. Although there has been progress around the world, they are concerned that the foundations of democracy and the rule of law are under threat in many countries. Today, the world is witnessing erosion of good governance, sharp increases in human rights violations and violence. The role of civil society is also being impeded by repressive governments. The rise of authoritarianism, in the guise of populist regimes, threatens all who defend social justice regardless of the regions or continents. Stealing from their own people, colluding with criminals, and distorting laws and truth to serve their own interests result in extremist movements and harsh divisions.