Worldwide Call for Action from Members of the International Network of Street Papers

by INSP
The International Network of Street Papers (INSP) is a global independent media movement which supports homeless people worldwide. INSP unites an international membership of over 90 street papers in 38 countries worldwide with a combined annual readership of some 100 million. 

 

Most recently, INSP has focused on supporting and establishing new street papers in African countries, helping to launch papers in Kenya, Zambia, Nigeria and Ethiopia in 2007/08.

 

 

 

The 13th Annual Conference of the INSP took place in Glasgow, 19-21st June 2008, in partnership with The Big Issue in Scotland. The international event which is held in a different worldwide city each year returned to Glasgow, the home of its international headquarters, after a 4-year break. The 3-day event brought together over 100 street paper journalists, directors and social development workers from 32 countries to get together, share ideas and learn from one another.


One particular delegate from Zimbabwe was refused entry into the UK to attend the conference, despite having travelled extensively in the past and INSP securing funding to support his attendance. Further, the refusal to issue a visa resulted in our inability to immediately assist development with this delegate of a new street newspaper in Zimbabwe, as well as a full exchange at our meeting of the deteriorating political and economic situation within his country.


INSP members attending the conference felt strongly that the government's decision encroached upon the individual's right of freedom of movement, as well as the ability to strengthen his international connections with street paper colleagues. This view has been endorsed by the wider INSP membership as well as by external organisations from countries such as Burundi, Nigeria, Malawi and Brazil.


At this current time, a senior representative from the visa section of the 'Foreign and Commonwealth Office' had no comment, explanation or apology to issue regarding the refusal of the visa.


The INSP therefore issues this call for action:


The International Network of Street Papers believes that we exist only to benefit homeless people and people living in poverty around the world through the activity of our members.


We are an independent organisation and strongly believe that our objectives and integrity cannot be compromised by past, current or prospective funders, partners or other bodies.


Our primary goal is to protect and develop our members and their respective beneficiaries.


We hereby declare that we will utilise our combined resources to ensure that any threats or other harmful actions to our members will not go unchallenged and unnoticed.


The truth that our Zimbabwe colleague was not allowed to attend this conference must be deplored and similar actions should not be allowed to happen in the future.


We shall seek your support to highlight this issue and ask you to continue to support the INSP.




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About the International Network of Street Papers (INSP)


Established in 1994, the International Network of Street Papers (INSP) is a global engine for innovative poverty solutions. From its headquarters in Scotland, INSP supports more than 90 enterprising street paper projects in 38 countries spanning 6 continents. Based on principles of self-help, social enterprise and independent information, INSP addresses immediate and urgent needs through individual empowerment and opportunity and tackles the roots of social injustice through civic education and advocacy.


Street papers are independent newspapers and magazines sold by homeless and severely disadvantaged people on street corners around the world. Since 1994, INSP street papers have enabled approximately 250,000 marginalised people to earn a dignified income, make their voices heard and build relationships across harmful social boundaries. Reaching 32 million global readers every year, INSP is a strong and united voice advocating for the needs and rights of people living in poverty. For more information, go to: www.street-papers.org


Lisa Maclean
Executive Director


International Network of Street Papers (INSP)
c/o SCVO
Floor 3, Centrum Building
38 Queen Street
Glasgow
G1 3DX
SCOTLAND


Tel: +44 (0)141 225 8036
Fax: +44 (0)141 248 8066
Web: www.street-papers.org


The International Network of Street Papers - Enterprising Solutions to Poverty

Co-ordinator, Victoria Street Newz
http://relativenewz.ca
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