Inter Press Service

04.05.2005 The late Tarzie Vittachi, formerly with UNICEF, recounted the story of an African official who walked into his office for advice on how to get Western media to cover stories having a profound effect on the continent. ''My prime minister is going to address the U.N. General Assembly... How can I get the story into the New York Times,'' the man said. "Shoot him, and you will get a front-page story,'' replied Vittachi.

02.05.2005 President Bush missed a key opportunity to demand an end to brutal human rights abuses and discrimination against women when he met with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Abdullah last week, U.S.-based rights groups are saying. Many blame U.S. dependence on oil for President Bush's apparent deference to the Saudi leader.

27.04.2005 The current state of emergency in Nepal has placed severe constraints on the rights to freedom of expression. Current affairs and news on fm radio has been banned, and royal directives forbid the publication of any material undermining the King’s authority. Many journalists have been detained as a result.

27.04.2005 The King’s dismissal of government and seizure of direct power has been welcomed in some quarters as an opportunity to re-establish control over the country and bring an end to the violence between government forces and Maoist insurgents. But in doing so it is possible the King has built a rod for his own back if his ambitious 3 year plan is unsuccessful.

22.04.2005 Chile's National Environment Commission and the United Nations are collaborating to develop the Chilean Trail eco-tourism project. At its completion in 2010, the 8,000 km trail--which will promote environmental protection and bring revenue and jobs into its communities--will be one of the longest pathways in the world for hiking or tours on bicycle or horseback.