Read the latest news below about the Carter Center's work around the world.
The Georgia Institute of Technology today announced the recipients of fellowships in which students will collaborate with The Carter Center during the fall 2024 academic semester. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the killing of American-Turkish human rights activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, who was fatally shot by Israeli forces during a peaceful protest in Beita, West Bank, on Sept. 6. Her death highlights a troubling pattern of excessive force used against civilians, journalists, and nonviolent activists in violation of international law. Learn more »
The Carter Center urgently calls for a ceasefire in Sudan and implores all factions involved — military and civilian, local and international — to immediately embark on a path toward peace through dialogue and negotiation. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the Israeli government’s directive to forcibly transfer Palestinian civilians in Rafah to pave the way for a military offensive and reiterates our call for an immediate ceasefire. This plan is alarming given that an estimated 1.3 million Gazans now reside in overcrowded conditions in Rafah, previously designated as a safe zone. The Israeli government’s directive further undermines prospects for long-term peace and its citizens’ security and prosperity. Learn more »
In his 2002 Nobel Peace Prize lecture, our founder, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, said, “We will not learn to live together in peace by killing each other’s children.” His words resonate with us today more than ever as the Israel-Hamas conflict enters a new and even more dangerous phase. Learn more »
The Carter Center strongly condemns the targeting of Israeli and Palestinian civilians and calls for genuine dialogue as well as international collective action to halt hostilities in the region. Learn more »
In the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck Syria and Turkey earlier this year, the U.S. government released General License 23 (GL 23), a humanitarian exception to sanctions on Syria, to allow for aid to reach those in need. This exception took effect Feb. 9, 2023, for a period of 180 days. Learn more »
The Carter Center is gravely concerned over the Israeli Knesset’s vote to enact legislation that strips the Israeli Supreme Court’s authority to override unreasonable government decisions. This legislation, known as the “reasonableness law,” is the first step of an extensive agenda designed to eliminate judicial responsibility to act on the Israeli government’s actions. Learn more »
The Carter Center joins those continuing to mourn the loss of Shireen Abu Akleh and again calls for a full and transparent investigation into her killing. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply concerned by the death of Khader Adnan, a Palestinian prisoner who died in solitary confinement in an Israeli prison this week after an 87-day-long hunger strike. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply saddened by the earthquakes that devastated Turkey and Syria, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation in Syria. As relief aid is being disbursed, it is crucial that it reach all affected communities immediately and without hindrance. Learn more »
The Carter Center was pleased to hear Secretary of State Antony Blinken affirm the Biden administration’s goal of equal measures of freedom, security, opportunity, justice, and dignity for Palestinians and Israelis in his public remarks in Jerusalem this week. We support the administration’s sustained opposition to settlement construction, annexation of the West Bank, demolition of Palestinian houses, and displacement of Palestinians from their land. Learn more »
The Carter Center is alarmed that the early actions of the new Israeli government violate human rights, contravene international law, and risk instigating identity-based violence in the occupied Palestinian territories and Israel. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns Israel’s decision today to raid and close the offices of six prominent Palestinian human rights organizations based in Ramallah. Learn more »
The Carter Center is alarmed by recent developments in and around Gaza that resulted in the death of some 46 Palestinians, including at least 16 children, in the latest escalation of violence over the past weekend. Learn more »
As President Biden prepares for his visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories later this week, The Carter Center calls on him to make human rights a central theme of his meetings with Israeli and Palestinian leaders. Learn more »
On June 30 at approximately 7:45 a.m., access to internet and mobile communications was cut in Sudan. This communications blackout comes as Sudanese citizens engage in demonstrations in support of democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, today released a report describing the current, unprecedented impasse in the implementation process. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the killing of Al Jazeera news correspondent Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian American, and calls for an independent investigation into the incident. The perpetrators must be brought to justice. Learn more »
Jason Carter, chairman of The Carter Center Board of Trustees, and C.D. Glin, Global Head of Philanthropy for PepsiCo and a Carter Center board member, led a delegation this week to Bamako, where they met with leaders tasked with implementing Mali’s 2015 peace agreement. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns today’s coup d’etat in Sudan and calls upon Sudan’s military actors to immediately release detainees, allow peaceful demonstrations, and move swiftly to transfer leadership of the government to civilian control, maintaining the agreed-upon transitional schedule. Learn more »
The Carter Center is alarmed by the Israeli Defense Ministry’s designation of leading Palestinian human rights organizations as terrorist organizations. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released “Sudan’s Youth and the Transition: Priorities, Perception, and Attitudes,” a report that presents the experiences, expectations, and hopes of Sudanese youth regarding the country’s transition from Omar al-Bashir’s regime to democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center calls on the Palestinian Authority leadership to reschedule Palestinian presidential, legislative, and municipal elections—ideally within the next six months—and to engage with political leaders to create an environment conducive to peaceful and genuine elections. Learn more »
On June 24, Palestinian political activist Nizar Banat died when Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces raided his home in Hebron in the southern West Bank. According to his family, PA security officers used explosives to blow open the door of Banat’s residence, pepper-sprayed him, and violently beat him. Learn more »
The Carter Center calls on Israel to halt the bombardment of Gaza, a densely populated area. Residents there have no access to bomb shelters and have no way to escape the indiscriminate shelling. Learn more »
On April 6, the Israeli police prevented an electoral event planned by Palestinian civil society organizations at the Ambassador Hotel in occupied East Jerusalem. Police placed barriers around the vicinity of the hotel to block participants from reaching it. Israeli security officials detained activists, including a Fatah candidate for the Palestinian Legislative Council, Ghada Abu Rabee. The manager of the Ambassador Hotel, Sami Abu Dayya, was reportedly placed in custody. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, today released its year-end report, which finds that the lack of commitment by the parties – combined with the sociopolitical crisis, the coup d'état, the establishment of the Transition, and the COVID-19 pandemic – greatly limited the progress of implementation in 2020. Learn more »
Sudan’s Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports announced today that The Carter Center will support the building of a Youth-Focused Independent Observer Program for the country’s ongoing transition to democracy. Learn more »
Israel’s planned annexation of up to 30% of the West Bank as early as today would violate international laws prohibiting the acquisition of territory by force and changing the status of occupied territories. The planned move would violate the Oslo and Camp David Accords and jeopardize Israel’s peace treaties with Jordan and Egypt. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, today released a new report describing two persistent obstacles to the implementation of the agreement: the delay of electoral and administrative redistricting and continued problems preventing full redeployment of integrated army units. Learn more »
President Trump’s plan for unilateral annexation to Israel of a large piece of the occupied Palestinian territories offers the Palestinians fragmented statehood, without control of their borders, in four years and subject to certain conditions, and leaves the status of large parts of the West Bank to be determined in the future. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement implementation, released its 2019 end-of-year report, which criticizes the overall stagnation of the process and urges vigorous measures to consolidate peace in Mali. Learn more »
Despite recent progress in the demobilization of combatants from former armed groups, foot-dragging and lack of support from decision-makers is significantly delaying the implementation of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, according to a new Carter Center report. Learn more »
BAMAKO, MALI (May 14, 2019) — The Carter Center, which is serving as Independent Observer of the implementation of the 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, emanating from the Algiers process, today released its fourth report on the state of implementation. The report warns of recent backsliding in the implementation process and highlights the major blockages impeding progress. It also focuses on the state of reconciliation and justice in Mali. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which is serving as Independent Observer of the implementation of the 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, today released its third report on the state of implementation in 2018. Learn more »
Carter Center Chief Executive Officer Ambassador (ret.) Mary Ann Peters will visit Sudan Nov. 18 and 19 to explore ways The Carter Center can contribute to durable peace and advance efforts to control or eliminate neglected tropical diseases, particularly river blindness and trachoma. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which is serving as Independent Observer of the implementation of the 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, released its second report today, which focuses on measures that could help accelerate implementation of the peace agreement. The report notes modest but real progress in the implementation of the agreement but also highlights problems impeding further progress. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which is serving as Independent Observer of the implementation of the 2015 Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, released its first report today, saying that despite slow progress the signatories remain committed to the agreement. Learn more »
The Carter Center today announced that it has chosen former U.S. Ambassador Bisa Williams to spearhead its efforts as the official independent observer of Mali’s 2015 Peace Agreement. Learn more »
President Donald Trump’s announcement recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and ordering the Department of State to start preparations to move the U.S. embassy there damages the credibility of the U.S. as an effective mediator and undermines hope for a two-state solution. Since 1967, the international community has been unanimous in rejecting such a shift and in considering East Jerusalem part of the occupied Palestinian territory. Learn more »
The Carter Center convened leading academics, activists, and policymakers from around the world Sept. 25-27 to discuss the growing threat of Islamophobia and seek effective solutions. Hate crimes against Muslims are at an all-time high. According to a recent report issued by the Southern Poverty Law Center, the total number of anti-Muslim hate groups in the United States grew 197 percent from 2015 to 2016. In 2016, anti-Muslim hate crimes surged 67 percent, reaching a level of violence not seen since the aftermath of 9/11. Learn more »
The Carter Center deployed a delegation of international electoral experts to Liberia to assess the voter registration process and the pre-election environment in advance of general elections anticipated in October 2017, when voters will elect a new president and 73 members of the House of Representatives. Learn more »
The Carter Center, the impartial nongovernmental organization led by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, held meetings earlier this month with key members of the Sudanese government, civil society, and opposition. Learn more »
The Carter Center, the impartial non-governmental organization founded and led by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, plans to hold three meetings in the coming days with a group of international experts and key Sudanese stakeholders to discuss possibilities for peace in Sudan. Learn more »
The Carter Center convened its third Africa-China-United States Consultation for Peace and Development in Lome, Togo on July 27-28, 2016 Learn more »
The Carter Center has been engaged in promoting an end to fighting and a political transition in Syria since the conflict began in 2011. The Center has facilitated a series of workshops examining governance options for the 18-month transition called for by U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254 and constitutional changes necessary to support the resolution's call for an "inclusive transitional governing body with full executive powers." Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched a new web tool that shows in near real time which groups control what areas of Syria. Learn more »
The Carter Center closely follows events in Syria and regularly publishes reports about conflict developments on its website. These reports are publicly available and are forwarded to all interested parties, including Syrians across political divides and governments in the west and in the region. Learn more »
In the wake of the devastating earthquake and ongoing rescue and recovery operations in Nepal, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter calls on the international community to redouble efforts to support Nepal and to develop clear plans for long-term assistance and rebuilding. Learn more »
In recent weeks, as the Jan. 22 deadline to promulgate a new constitution approaches, Nepal's constitution-making process has become increasingly polarized. The Carter Center urges all parties to recommit to the spirit of consensus upon which the peace process and constituent assembly are founded and to find broadly acceptable compromises to bring constitution-making to a successful close. Learn more »
Gaza is on the verge of a humanitarian catastrophe. Two weeks of indiscriminate bombing and fighting in and around Gaza has left over 600 Palestinians dead, an estimated two-thirds of whom are civilians, including over 150 children. The Israeli death toll has reached 29, including two civilians. Learn more »
A high-level delegation of chiefs and elders from Grand Gedeh County will visit Nimba County for a two-day peace and reconciliation meeting with chiefs and elders from Nimba County. The Honorable Minister of Internal Affairs Morris M. Dukuly Sr. has requested Chief Zanzan Karwor, chairman of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders, to lead the meeting, which takes place in Toweh Town, Nimba County, from July 21-23, 2014. Learn more »
The Carter Center has named Pewee Flomoku as the first Liberian chief of party for its office in Liberia, effective today. A veteran Liberian journalist, Flomoku will lead both general office operations and its Access to Justice Project. Learn more »
Based on a recent field assessment, The Carter Center reports that while Nepal's second constituent assembly has made commendable progress to prepare a new constitution in a spirit of compromise, many Nepalis are concerned about the slow pace of the process to date, a perceived lack of engagement by senior political leaders on contentious issues, and the persistence of long-term risks to the credibility of the political process. Learn more »
As violence and instability continue to dominate the political scene in Libya, The Carter Center urges all stakeholders to cease hostilities, engage in comprehensive dialogue, and recommit to the democratic process. Learn more »
The Carter Center's long-standing support for the people of Sudan will continue through activities to advance peace, democracy, and health. The Carter Center's Health Program office continues to operate as it undertakes health promotion and disease prevention projects. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released to the public a series of reports that provide a comprehensive analysis of Syrian paramilitary group structures and their evolution. The reports are part of the Center's Syria Conflict Mapping Project, which analyzes the unprecedented volume of online citizen-generated information about the conflict in an effort to better inform peace-building efforts. Learn more »
The Carter Center finds that Nepal's Nov. 19 constituent assembly election was conducted remarkably well, especially in the face of attempts by boycotting parties to disrupt the process through violence. The Election Commission of Nepal estimated the voter turnout at more than 70 percent. Learn more »
The Sudan-South Sudan Dialogue Group visited the Tamazuj area in Northern Bahr el-Ghazal State from November 7-9, 2013. The objective of the visit was to advance people-to-people dialogue and specifically to learn from the experiences of the Dinka Malual and their interactions with neighboring Misseriya and Rizeigat tribes. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today that former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai will co-lead the Carter Center's delegation to observe Nepal's Nov. 19 constituent assembly election. The Center's mission will include more than 50 observers representing 27 nations deployed throughout the country. Learn more »
In a report released today, The Carter Center offered a series of recommendations to Nepal's election commission, candidates and parties, and government to support the conduct of a credible constituent assembly election on Nov. 19. Learn more »
In a report released today, The Carter Center applauds the Election Commission of Nepal's efforts to finalize a new voter roll for the constituent assembly elections on Nov. 19, 2013, while also identifying areas of concern such as potential voters who have not been registered. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched an international election observation mission for Nepal's Nov. 19, 2013, constituent assembly election at the invitation of Interim Election Council Chair Khil Raj Regmi and the Election Commission of Nepal and the welcome of political parties. Learn more »
The use of chemical weapons on August 21 near Damascus is a grave breach of international law that has rightfully outraged the world community. The United States and some of its European allies are calling for military strikes on Syria, but apparently without support from NATO or the Arab League. Learn more »
Representatives of the Carter Center's Conflict Resolution Program will travel to Beirut and Damascus in late July for discussions on eventual political transition in Syria. Learn more »
On the occasion of Palestinian Prisoners' Day, April 17, The Carter Center expresses concern for the treatment of 4,750 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, which contravenes international law and human rights norms. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched a series of nongovernmental dialogues between prominent leaders from Sudan and South Sudan to strengthen peace and create lasting understanding between the two countries. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter will visit Nepal and Myanmar from March 29-April 6. Learn more »
In a report released today, The Carter Center notes that identity-based political activity in Nepal has decreased since May 2012, providing space for much-needed civic dialogue on federalism and social inclusion. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns rocket fire from Gaza against Israeli communities, the assassination of Ahmed Jabari, head of the Hamas military wing, and other targeted attacks in Gaza. Learn more »
In a report released today, Carter Center observers found that the Election Commission of Nepal (ECN) continues to make progress toward finalizing a new voter register but faces challenges related to registration turnout, access to eligibility documents such as citizenship certificates, and data quality. Learn more »
Press Releases News &smp; Publications May 24, 2012 Contacts: In Atlanta, Deborah Hakes +1 404-420-5124; In Kathmandu, Sarah Levit-Shore +977-1-444-5055/1446 Statement by Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter on Nepal (नेपालीमा पढ्नुहोस) I am concerned by the tensions, prolonged strikes, and incidents of political violence that have taken place throughout Nepal in recent weeks. Positively, it appears that these tensions have reduced in the last few days following the signing of several agreements between the Government of Nepal and protesting groups, as well as some commendable initiatives at the local level. Learn more »
The Carter Center strongly condemns the seizure of power in Mali by elements of the military. The Carter Center calls for the immediate and peaceful return to constitutional order and the establishment of a short transition toward the scheduled elections. Learn more »
Following a series of public hearings, South Sudan's National Legislative Assembly (NLA) is in the final review stages of a national elections bill to establish the framework for political competition in future elections in South Sudan. Learn more »
My colleagues at The Carter Center and I commend Nepal's government and political parties for closing 13 of 28 cantonments and completing the discharge process for those Maoist combatants who have chosen voluntary retirement. These are important steps toward completing the peace process. Learn more »
The Carter Center calls on the Israeli government to immediately charge or release Palestinian prisoner Khader Adnan, who was arrested on Dec. 17, 2011, based on "secret evidence" and has been held in administrative detention without charge. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends South Sudan's National Legislative Assembly for its decision to convene a public hearing on the draft Political Parties Bill and solicit input from political parties, civil society, and citizens. This is an important opportunity for South Sudanese to provide input and demonstrate citizens' interest in the political process. Learn more »
In a report released today, The Carter Center commended the Election Commission of Nepal (ECN) for registering more than 10 million Nepali citizens to date, and encouraged the ECN to undertake additional efforts to reach out to those who have yet to participate in the process. Learn more »
The Carter Center denounces the recent detention of Speaker of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) Dr. Aziz Dweik, as well as the arrests of three other legislators and one former minister, who are members of the speaker's Hamas-affiliated faction. Learn more »
The Carter Center welcomes the recent agreement by Nepal's political parties to address key outstanding issues in the peace process, including the integration and rehabilitation of Maoist combatants, drafting of the constitution, and other important points. Learn more »
In a report released today, The Carter Center commended the Election Commission of Nepal (ECN) for registering nearly eight million Nepali citizens to date and encouraged the ECN to undertake additional efforts to reach out to millions more who have yet to participate in the process. Learn more »
The Carter Center welcomes the recent agreement by Nepal's political parties as well as their decision to extend the Constituent Assembly tenure by three months. Learn more »
In a report released today, Carter Center observers found that although the overall functioning of Local Peace Committees (LPCs) has improved since November 2009, their effectiveness remains unclear and they continue to face serious challenges. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the Government of Egypt for their success in brokering the historic intra-Palestinian reconciliation agreement announced on April 27. The Carter Center further commends the representatives of Fatah and Hamas for having the vision to begin the process of reunifying the Palestinian people. Mediated by the Government of Egypt, the agreement provides a framework for resolving long-standing issues regarding reform of the Palestine Liberation Organization, Palestinian governance, elections, human rights abuses, and the security sector. Now, the challenge will be implementing the agreement on the ground. Learn more »
In a report released today, Carter Center observers found that overall the Election Commission of Nepal's (ECN) voter registration process is moving forward, despite delays. Learn more »
In a statement released today, The Carter Center welcomed the completion of the voter registration process in South Kordofan. The process was conducted in a generally peaceful environment and the majority of registration centers operated without major problems. Learn more »
In a statement issued today, The Carter Center reports that the first phase of the popular consultation in Blue Nile produced notable accomplishments, but that state legislative assembly members, political parties, and consultation authorities should work collaboratively to ensure a more transparent and genuine dialogue on the key issues in remaining phases of the process in Blue Nile. Learn more »
Distrust between the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) and opposition parties is a critical challenge that undermines the unity of Southern Sudan on the eve of its independence. To ensure a successful transition, The Carter Center urges all Southern Sudanese political leaders to agree on genuinely inclusive processes for reviewing and adopting the transitional constitution and planning for the transition. Learn more »
The Andean-U.S. Dialogue Forum, a citizens' forum created to identify and contribute solutions to multilateral problems and tensions among the Andean countries (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela) and the United States, issued a report today outlining a common agenda to improve cooperation among the nations. Learn more »
In a report released today, Carter Center observers found that overall clashes between Nepal's political party youth wings appear to have decreased. However, many activities of the Maoist-affiliated Young Communist League (YCL) and, to a lesser extent, the CPN-UML Youth Force [1] remain targeted toward financial gain, and youth wing activity continues to have a negative impact on security in many districts. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission, the Southern Sudan Referendum Bureau, the Comprehensive Peace Agreement partners, and the Sudanese people on the announcement of the final results of the referendum on the self-determination of Southern Sudan. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, former U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan, former Tanzania Prime Minister Joseph Warioba, and Dr. John Hardman, Carter Center president and CEO, will lead the Carter Center's international observation delegation for the January 2011 referendum on the self-determination of Southern Sudan. Learn more »
Mistrust among Nepal's political leaders, failure to implement previous commitments, and repeated unsuccessful efforts to form a new government pose threats to the peace process and constitutional drafting. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the recent attacks in the West Bank resulting in four murdered and two injured Israeli settlers. The military wing of Hamas has assumed responsibility. Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses deep concern about the revocation of Jerusalem residency rights for three members of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC): Muhammad Abu-Teir, Ahmad Attoun, and Muhammad Totah, as well as the former Palestinian Minister of Jerusalem Affairs Khaled Abu Arafeh. Learn more »
In a report released today, The Carter Center has found that the Maoists and successive governments have each only partially fulfilled land commitments as outlined in the November 2006 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) and subsequent agreements. Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses deep regret for the loss of life and condemns the unprovoked and illegal Israeli assault on the humanitarian Gaza aid flotilla in international waters. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter will lead a study mission to Israel, the West Bank, Egypt, Syria, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan April 13-21, 2008, as part of the Carter Center's ongoing effort to support peace, democracy, and human rights in the region. Learn more »
In its latest statement on Sudan's electoral process, The Carter Center notes that while much has been achieved in organizing the 2010 elections, the country's first competitive elections since 1986, the process remains at risk on multiple fronts including the ability of candidates to campaign freely and the impact of delayed logistical preparations by the National Elections Commission (NEC). Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses serious concern about the growing incidence of threats and attacks on media personnel in Nepal. The Center strongly believes that a free and vibrant press is indispensable for the sustainability of a functioning democracy. Learn more »
According to a Carter Center report released today, Nepalis expect their new constitution to provide peace, security, and address basic needs. They support measures to promote equality, inclusivity, and education for all; end discrimination; uplift disadvantaged communities; and improve access to the state and justice system. Learn more »
The Carter Center hopes to observe presidential and legislative elections in Palestine, but will only consider the opportunity if the democratic principles and fundamental freedoms required for genuine and inclusive elections across the West Bank and Gaza are met. Learn more »
In a report released today, The Carter Center in Nepal describes the current security environment around the country and notes that while the situation across parts of the Tarai remains poor, it has moderately improved since early-2009. Learn more »
The American Civil Liberties Union today filed a friend-of-the-court brief on behalf of the Carter Center, Human Rights Watch and several other human rights and humanitarian organizations in a case before the U.S. Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of a law that makes it a crime to provide "material support or resources" to any organization that the Secretary of State has designated a ''foreign terrorist organization'' (FTO). Learn more »
The Carter Center urges all parties to heed the recommendations of the recent United Nations report on hostilities in and around Gaza from December 2008 to January 2009. Learn more »
Nepal has made significant progress on the path to peace and inclusive democracy over the past three years but the future of the process now appears in question. Reminiscent of the 1990s, political leaders in Kathmandu appear focused on zero-sum power politics at the expense of the constitution drafting, peace process, and provision of basic government services. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the significant progress that Nepal has made on the path to peace and stability during the last three years, but notes with concern that the breakdown in consensus politics following the 2008 Constituent Assembly elections, as well as the delay in implementing previous commitments, threatens to derail the progress made thus far. Learn more »
National Christian leaders meeting at The Carter Center on May 14-15 sent the following letter to President Barack Obama following two days of discussions on the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Citing a growing sense of despair in the Holy Land, the letter conveys to the President support for his efforts to push for a two-state solution and calls for an immediate opening of the Gaza borders. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the killing and maiming of suspected collaborators, political opponents, and common criminals committed by Hamas-affiliated security forces in the Gaza Strip. According to a recent Human Rights Watch report, during the course of Operation Cast Lead from Dec. 27, 2008, through Jan. 17, 2009, Hamas-affiliated security forces executed extra-judicially 18 people while maiming dozens of others, often by shooting them in the knees and feet. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the people of Nepal, the election commission, and the political parties for a generally peaceful and orderly by-election process. Following an invitation from the Election Commission of Nepal, The Carter Center deployed four teams of short-term observers to Morang, Dhanusha, Kaski, and Kanchanpur from April 9-11 to conduct a small scale assessment of Nepal's April 10, 2009, Constituent Assembly by-elections. Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses strong concern about recent home demolition orders issued by the Jerusalem Municipality. If implemented, a total of 95 structures, including 87 homes in the historic Al-Bustan neighborhood south of the Old City, would be demolished and some 1,840 Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem would be displaced. Learn more »
The Carter Center welcomes the temporary cessation of the war in and around the Gaza Strip, but notes that the situation remains extremely precarious. Learn more »
The Carter Center urges an immediate end to violence in and around Gaza. The government of Israel must cease actions that endanger the civilian population of densely populated Gaza, and the de facto authorities of Gaza must halt rocket attacks. Learn more »
The Carter Center will continue working for dialogue and the improvement of the relationship between the people of Colombia and Ecuador and remains ready to collaborate with both governments in the manner the presidents deem to be most appropriate and opportune. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the people of Nepal, the government, and the political parties on the first sitting of the Constituent Assembly on May 28, 2008. This is a testament to the commitment and dedication of the Nepali people and their political leadership to sustainable peace and multi-party democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns in the strongest terms the rocket attack launched from the Gaza Strip against Israeli civilians in Ashkelon yesterday. According to reports, the "Grad-type" rocket injured at least 14 civilians, including a mother and her three-year-old daughter, when it struck the Hutzot shopping center. Learn more »
Jewish Voice for Peace and Just Foreign Policy have presented former U.S. President Jimmy Carter with a petition signed by 5,000 of their members supporting his meeting with Hamas leader, Khaled Meshaal. The petition is being delivered to the three remaining Democratic and Republican presidential candidates this week. Learn more »
President Carter has the greatest respect for Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and believes her to be a truthful person. However, perhaps inadvertently, she is continuing to make a statement that is not true. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today that its founders, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, will lead the Center's international election observation delegation to Nepal. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, former deputy prime minister of Thailand, will co-lead the delegation with the Carters. The Carter Center mission will also include more than 60 observers representing more than 20 different nations deployed throughout the country. Learn more »
The Carter Center's international election observation mission in Nepal has observed the pre-electoral environment in the country for the past 14 months. The Center is encouraged by the level of electoral preparations and campaigning presently taking place, as this represents a marked increase from the two previous election periods in June and November 2007. Learn more »
Hrair Balian, an attorney with background in international conflict mediation and democratic governance for organizations including the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, United Nations, and International Crisis Group, is the new director of the Carter Center's Conflict Resolution Program. Learn more »
The Carter Center has heard from Nepalis nationwide that they want peace, prosperity, and a representative, transparent, and accountable government. Nepal's political leaders need to respond to these expectations by holding a credible election for the constituent assembly on April 10, 2008. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the recent Palestinian suicide bombings and rocket fire against Israel and calls on the Palestinian leadership in Gaza to take urgent and immediate measures to halt the spiraling cycle of violence. Learn more »
Applications are now being accepted for six one-year journalism fellowships with the Carter Center Mental Health Program. Designed to enhance public understanding of mental health issues and combat stigma and discrimination against people with mental illnesses, the fellowships begin in September 2008. Applicants must be U.S. residents. Learn more »
After two years of almost complete isolation, the people of the Gaza Strip breached the iron wall along the border with Egypt, pouring over the border to seek basic supplies, receive needed health care, and some said, to "breathe a breath of freedom." Although Egypt seems poised to close the border again, most Gazans are giving Hamas credit for relieving their misery, even if the relief is temporary. Learn more »
The people of Nepal have embarked on a remarkable and historic transition. I am proud and grateful to witness parties formerly in conflict demonstrating their commitment to resolving their differences through peaceful means. Learn more »
The Carter Center urges the government of Israel to cease consideration of a proposal to cut energy supplies in Gaza. On Sept. 19, 2007, Israel threatened to declare the Gaza Strip a "hostile territory" and cut off provision of essential services such as electricity and fuel to the civilian population as retaliation for rocket attacks being launched from the territory. Learn more »
The Carter Center is disappointed with the announcement of a second postponement of Nepal's constituent assembly election. The Center hopes that Nepal's political leadership will now use the time ahead of them wisely to reach reasonable compromises on key issues in dispute. Learn more »
Nepal's peace process is at a critical juncture following the Sept. 18 departure of the Maoists from the interim government and the rapid approach of key electoral deadlines. The Carter Center is encouraged by the renewed commitment of all parties to maintaining unity and pursuing intensive negotiations to resolve contentious issues. Learn more »
In a statement issued today (see below): The Carter Center deplores the decision taken Wednesday by Israel to declare the Gaza Strip a hostile territory and its threat to cut off provision of essential services such as electricity and fuel to the civilian population. Learn more »
This statement presents the observations and continued findings of the Carter Center's international election observation mission in Nepal. Since March 2007, The Center's 13 international long-term observers (LTOs) have visited all of Nepal's 75 districts, in many cases multiple times, reaching not only to district headquarters but also to the village level. Learn more »
The collapse of the Palestinian National Unity Government (NUG) last month following the takeover of Gaza by Hamas has left the Palestinian territories in crisis. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter will visit Nepal June 13-16 to encourage Nepal's political leaders to continue on the path to peace as they prepare to hold constituent assembly elections later in 2007. President Carter, 2002 Nobel Laureate and co-founder of The Carter Center, will lead a delegation including former U.S. Ambassador A. Peter Burleigh, Carter Center Democracy Program Director Dr. David Carroll, and Carter Center Nepal Field Director Darren Nance. Learn more »
The Carter Center launched an international election observation mission in Nepal with the deployment this week of thirteen long-term observers in all five development regions around the country. The long-term observers come from eight countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, Croatia, France, Germany, Sweden, United Kingdom, and the United States. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright will speak on the prospects for lasting peace in the Palestinian territories to a sold-out audience at The Carter Center on Feb. 22, 2007, from 7-8:30 p.m. Learn more »
During my recent book tour I signed more than 10,000 books and was interviewed on 100 news media outlets.* The high point for me was a meeting with leaders of the Board of Rabbis of Greater Phoenix, who announced before my arrival that they would demonstrate against my book. Learn more »
The attempt to coerce Hamas leaders by starving the Palestinian people has failed, and it is time for the international community to alleviate their suffering and resort to diplomacy. Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses its alarm at the outbreak of violence in Ethiopia rooted in the ongoing dispute over the May 2005 elections. We send condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives, and urge that every effort be made to avoid further death and injury. Learn more »
The Carter Center’s Liberia Election Observation Project called for fair and honest campaigning for the Oct. 11, 2005, Liberian presidential and legislative elections, as the official campaign period begins today. Learn more »
My colleagues and I at The Carter Center are deeply saddened by the death of Vice President Dr. John Garang, chairman of the Sudanese People's Liberation Movement. John Garang was for millions in Africa and across the world a symbol of the struggle for peace and dignity, and his passing will be greatly mourned. Learn more »
The Carter Center views with concern the political crisis of the past four months, culminating in the removal of the Ecuadorian president yesterday. The Center urges calm to allow the restoration of a normal constitutional situation, including re-establishing the Supreme Court. Learn more »
I have watched with concern the increasing tension in Bolivia culminating two days ago in the resignation letter of President Mesa. Over the past 17 months, Bolivia has faced difficult choices on a variety of issues, and these will not be solved simply with a change in the government. Learn more »
ATLANTA…International experts will discuss the state of world conflict in a live webcast on www.cartercenter.org as part of the Conversations at The Carter Center series on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2005, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Learn more »
ATLANTA.....It is with great joy that I congratulate the government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army on their peace accord signed today. The road to this agreement has been long and hard, but finally the people of Sudan have a chance to realize their great potential for a future of peace. Learn more »
NAIROBI....The historic peace accord signed here today by the government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army not only brings an end to Africa's longest running civil war, but also paves the way for final global eradication of Guinea worm disease Learn more »
Yasser Arafat's death marks the end of an era and will no doubt be painfully felt by Palestinians throughout the Middle East and elsewhere in the world. Learn more »
ATLANTA....I am pleased that the Sudan peace talks made important progress yesterday with the signings of additional significant agreements in Navaisha, Kenya. All concerned should be congratulated for their dedication to working through the difficult details of these protocols. The world looks forward to a final, comprehensive accord. This will mark the true beginning of the hard work of implementing the agreements and building peace throughout Sudan. Learn more »
ATLANTA.... I have followed with concern for a number of years the appalling working conditions in the Florida-based tomato industry. While production costs in the industry have increased over the last 25 years, wages have been effectively stagnant, as giant cooperative buying mechanisms hold prices down. Conditions are so bad in parts of the industry that there have been two separate prosecutions for slavery in recent years. Learn more »
CARACAS, VENEZUELA... Today the national government, represented at the Enlace Mechanism (established by the May 29, 2003, accord) by deputies Nicolás Maduro and Desireé Santos Amaral, has informed the group's facilitators of the delicate situation regarding the detention of a group of foreign mercenaries. These mercenaries may be willing to initiate violent and criminal actions against military and political targets. Learn more »
The Carter Center joins the world community in commemorating the loss of life from the genocide in Rwanda that began on April 7, 1994. Learn more »
ATLANTA...The weeks of protests, marches, and violence have taken a heavy toll on the people of Bolivia. The loss of lives in El Alto and elsewhere will remain just one of the many sad reminders of this period in Bolivia's history. Learn more »
ATLANTA… I wish to express my deepest regret for the loss of life that has occurred in Bolivia these past days and weeks and my personal condolences to the family and friends of those who have died. The violence that has rocked Bolivia is abhorrent to all peace loving people. Learn more »
ATLANTA….Concessions must be made by both India and Pakistan to resolve escalating tensions between the countries over Kashmir, the strife-torn Himalayan region, The Carter Center recommended in a report released today. India must acknowledge the existence of Pakistani grievances over the disputed territory while Pakistan must visibly take all possible steps to stop infiltrations by terrorists, the report said. Learn more »
ATLANTA…..Members of the Egyptian, Israeli, and U.S. delegations to the 1978 Camp David negotiation will gather in Washington, D.C., Sept. 17 on the 25th anniversary of the accords to discuss lessons learned for Middle East peacemaking. Learn more »
Matthew Hodes, a former United Nations official, has been appointed director of the Carter Center's Conflict Resolution Program. He had served as the program's senior associate director since September 2001. Learn more »
I congratulate the members of the Forum on Negotiation and Agreements in Venezuela on the signing of an accord to respect human rights, freedom of expression, and the right to petition for recall referenda of elected officials. Learn more »
Friends, family, and dignitaries from across Georgia gathered here March 19 for a gala event at Atlanta Symphony Hall to honor former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, and his wife, Rosalynn. The evening, which President Carter described as "an ironic night," began at 8 p.m.--the exact deadline issued for Saddam Hussein's exit from Iraq. Learn more »
The planned meeting of American, British, and Spanish leaders in the Azores this weekend is a strong indication of their determination to resolve the present impasse in the United Nations. Learn more »
The Carter Center deplores the escalation of violence in Caracas in the last week and deplores the bombings of the diplomatic missions of Colombia and Spain in Caracas. Learn more »
I am pleased to see that the government and the Coordinadora have begun discussions at the Mesa de Negociaciones y Acuerdos on an electoral solution. Both sides have used the proposals that The Carter Center presented at the Mesa last week as a basis for progress and have presented their initial responses. Learn more »
La oposición anuncia la finalización del paro. El Gobierno anuncia que no habrá represalias contra los trabajadores públicos que recurrieron a sus derechos sindicales. Quienes sean encontrados culpables de sabotaje o de otros delitos, serán penados conforme a la ley. Learn more »
La oposición anuncia la finalización del paro. El Gobierno anuncia que no habrá represalias contra los trabajadores públicos que recurrieron a sus derechos sindicales. Quienes sean encontrados culpables de sabotaje o de otros delitos, serán penados conforme a la ley. Learn more »
Quiero expresar al pueblo Venezolano mi profunda preocupación por el alto nivel de tensión en el que se aproximan a celebrar las Navidades y la llegada del Año Nuevo. Learn more »
ATLANTA, GA….I commend the Venezuelan government and opposition grouped under the Coordinadora Democratica for opening the Table of Negotiation and Accords today to resolve the deep differences between them. Direct conversation is the best method to increase understanding and to resolve conflict peacefully. Learn more »
La Misión integrada por funcionarios de la Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA), del Programa de las Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo (PNUD) y del Centro Carter, concluyó hoy una visita de cinco días a Venezuela, atendiendo a invitaciones tanto del Gobierno como de los diversos sectores de la oposición agrupados en la Coordinadora Democrática. Learn more »
A mission of officials from the Organization of American States (OAS), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and The Carter Center concluded a five-day visit to Venezuela today, in response to invitations from the Government and the various opposition groups in the Coordinadora Democrática. Learn more »
Atlanta....A mission of the Organization of American States (OAS), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Carter Center will visit Venezuela on September 9 to 13, 2002, in response to an invitation from the government and the various opposition groups in Coordinadora Democrática. Learn more »
ATLANTA….The Carter Center welcomes the outcome of the recent IGAD peace talks on Sudan and applauds all concerned for this renewed commitment to peace. It is our profound hope that the agreements reached mark the beginning of a new era of justice and prosperity throughout Sudan and the region. It remains, however, the solemn responsibility of Sudan's leaders and their international friends to transform these initial agreements into a final and comprehensive peace that is fully embraced and implemented by all of the peoples of Sudan. Learn more »
In response to a request last week from the Venezuela government to former U. S. President Jimmy Carter to facilitate a national dialogue, The Carter Center will send a small assessment team to Caracas June 24-29, 2002, to form a recommendation to President Carter on whether to accept this invitation. Learn more »
THE CARTER CENTER is a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization founded by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife,Rosalynn, in 1982 to advance peace and health worldwide. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the Center has helped to improve quality of life for people in more than 65 countries. Its staff of 150 includes experts working to control and eradicate diseases, diminish the stigma against mental illness, strengthen democracy, advance human rights, and improve development planning. Learn more »
My heart goes out to the Venezuelan people who have suffered the turmoil of the last four days, and especially to the families of those who were killed. Learn more »
Atlanta... In this difficult political moment, I want to express my support for the Argentine people and my sincere regret for the recent violence and consequent loss of life. Argentina remains a valued member of the democratic community of nation states, and the Argentine people will find support from citizens across the hemisphere as they seek a way forward. I have confidence that the Argentine people and their leaders will find a peaceful solution to current challenges through established democratic procedures, reflecting the country's respect for human rights and civil liberties. Learn more »
Lima, Peru....On behalf of The Carter Center and the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI), I want to say our joint delegation is honored to be in Peru to observe this historic election. Learn more »
Nairobi, Kenya….The following statement is issued by the delegation leaders, Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, minister in charge of the presidency, Uganda, and Ali Numeiri, minister of state in the Ministry of External Relations, Sudan. Learn more »
ATLANTA, GA.... NAIROBI.....With a view to full implementation of the Nairobi Agreement of Dec. 8, 1999, between the Governments of Sudan and Uganda, a ministerial meeting was held in Nairobi Nov. 17-19, 2000, under the auspices of The Carter Center, with the participation of the Governments of Canada, Egypt, and Libya and representatives of UNICEF. Learn more »
Representatives of the Sudanese and Ugandan governments issued the following statement today following three days of talks here on steps to implement the Nairobi Agreement, which is designed to normalize relations between the two countries and promote regional peace. Learn more »
Uganda President Yoweri Museveni and Sudan President Omaral-Bashir today agreed to take steps to re-establish diplomatic relationsand to promote peace in the region. Learn more »
ATLANTA, GA.... I commend the Sudanese People's Liberation Army (SPLA) and the South Sudan Independence Movement (SSIM) for their decisions to extend the cease-fire in Sudan for another two months. During the past two months, the cease-fire has permitted the leaders and citizens of Sudan, working with The Carter Center and others, to carry out a major effort to eradicate Guinea worm disease, prevent river blindness, and immunize children against polio and other diseases. The cease-fire extension, agreed to by the SPLA, SSIM, and the government of Sudan, will enable the expansion of these efforts to further alleviate the suffering of Sudanese and will provide an opportunity to advance the peace process. Learn more »
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