We are shocked by the sudden death of Peter Simi. After an illness of a few weeks Peter died on Saturday, March 31 in a hospital in Nairobi. To Both ENDS Peter was a very valued colleague, working hard not only for his own organization, but with his positive and professional attitude often making a valuable contribution to the work Both ENDS and its other partners do around the world.
Back in Kenya it became clear that this situation was much worse than anyone had imagined. Our thoughts go out to Peter's close family and friends. We wish them much strength to cope with their loss. For Peters' organization ELCI this is an unexpected, very heavy shock: we hope that his good work can still be continued with commitment. Both ENDS will do everything within its power to help with that. Women's rights are under pressure worldwide, and hard-fought rights and freedoms are being dismantled.
Whereas until recently the Netherlands was a champion of emancipation, women's rights and gender justice, the current cabinet is breaking with this policy and abandoning millions of women and girls. It is time to make a strong stand against the dismantling of gender policy and to stand up for gender equality and social justice. Foreign Trade and Development Minister Klever's published policy letter is coldhearted and callous. It places the Netherlands in international isolation and abandons the most vulnerable people worldwide, including many women, farmers, indigenous peoples and youth.
In and , the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais experienced two severe mining tragedies in Mariana and Brumadinho, due to the same mining company: Vale. Since then, the affected communities have been seeking justice, via the criminal punishment of the responsible parties, and a fair compensation for the loss of their loved ones, their homes and their livelihoods. To address the climate crisis we need to urgently transition away from fossil fuels towards clean, renewable energy.
However, this transition is not only about changing energy sources. It requires an inclusive and fair process that tackles systemic inequalities and demanding consumption patterns, prioritizes environmental and social justice, and which does not repeat mistakes from the past.
