Friday, May 16, 2008

• Texas Mayors File Lawsuit against Homeland Security
• Taliban Stabilizes Flour Prices in Pakistan
• Migrant Organizations Work to Lower Money-Wiring Fees
• Islam Seeing New Influence in Indonesian Politics
• Division Remains Over 60th Anniversary of Israel

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Texas Mayors File Lawsuit against Homeland Security

A coalition of Texas mayors filed a civil lawsuit today against Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. They asked for a judicial ruling to stop the construction of a fence along the Texas-Mexico border and a declaration of illegality for the connected land seizures.
Katharine Jarmul reports from Washington, DC where the suit was filed.

Taliban Stabilizes Flour Prices in Pakistan

Flour shortages are still a serious problem in Pakistan. As in other parts of the country, the governments in tribal areas have had little success in controlling prices. But the Taliban has been stepping up – arranging lower prices for the local community. Consequently, security analysts fear the Taliban's humanitarian assistance may make them heroes in eyes of the people, and increase their influence in Pakistan's tribal regions. Correspondent Rahmanullah has more from Peshawar.

Migrant Organizations Work to Lower Money-Wiring Fees

Wiring money around the world is big business. And money transfer companies like Western Union and Money Gram have been taking their cut from migrants' earnings for years. To counter that, over 100 community-based organizations convened in Mexico City this week to form an association that would lower the cost of sending money home to a $3 flat fee. Additionally, the newly-formed Global League of Community Sustainers plans to establish a fund, and terms by which local communities can pay for development projects in migrants' home countries. Monica Lopez has more from Mexico City.

Islam Seeing New Influence in Indonesian Politics

Under the Soeharto New Order regime, Indonesia's secular constitution was strongly enforced. Islamic groups were suppressed by the military. But over the last ten years, a small hard-line Muslim fringe has been pressuring the government. And the Indonesian President has been accused of succumbing to the pressure. Rebecca Henschke reports on the struggle over the future of Islam in democratic Indonesia.

Division Remains Over 60th Anniversary of Israel

Eighteen world leaders, including President Bush are in Jerusalem this week to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the formation of Israel. Palestinians celebrated the anniversary in their own way – releasing one black balloon for each day since Israel's creation –21-thousand, 915 balloons in all. The day has mixed meanings for Israelis as well. As Daniel Estrin reports from Jerusalem, many still struggle with two perspectives on a day that marks statehood.