Stories about Humanitarian Response from June, 2012
Lebanon: Complete Blackout
Two of the major power plants, Zahrani and Deir-Ammar, in Lebanon suffered from “unknown” technical difficulties, which plunged most of the country into complete darkness. While some citizens took to the streets blocking roads in protest, netizens took to their keyboards to express their frustration.
Understanding the Violence in Western Myanmar
Dozens dead, more than two thousand houses burned down, and thirty thousand residents have been displaced by the communal violence in Rakhine State, west of Myanmar. Who are responsible for these deaths? How was the internet used to spread hate and racism? What are the views of ordinary citizens on this very complicated issue?
Bangladesh: Keep Border Open For Rohingya Refugees
After a recent sectarian violence between Rohingya and Rakhine in Western Myanmar, Bangladesh has restricted the influx of Rohingya refugees crossing borders. Bangladeshi netizens questions the decision of the government on humane grounds, though admitting as well that the country is incapable of hosting more refugees.
Saudi Arabia: No to Fundraising for Syria
Saudi religious scholars used Twitter as a sounding board to express their frustration at being banned from raising funds for Syria. Salah Almhamdi explains what happened.
RightsCon: Future of Digital Rights in Latin America and Beyond
Activists, business representatives, thinkers and policy makers are meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the Human Rights and Technology Conference. Renata Avila and other Global Voices contributors are also present at this event. Here is Renata's summary of the conference.
