Otto Adolf Eichmann was born in 1906 to a Calvinist Protestant family in Solingen, Germany. He attended the State Secondary School in Linz, Austria. It was the same school which Adolf Hitler had attended about 17 years before. He joined the Nazi party in 1932 and rose up in ranks when his superior officers noted his skills and efficiency. During the outbreak of the Second World War, he was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Gestapo. On 20, January 1942, Eichmann participated in the “Wannsee Conference” where all top officials of Nazi Germany gathered to find a “final solution of the Jewish question” under the dreaded high ranking officer- Rienhard Heydrich the director of the Reich Main Office.

May 1945 Germany surrendered and the war ended in Europe. Eichmann managed to escape from American custody in 1946. With the help of sympathetic Catholic priests, he succeeded in fleeing to Argentina via Genova Italy. There he changed his name to Ricardo Klement, found a job at the Mercedes – Benz Company in Bueno Ares.

Meanwhile, the state of Israel and Holocaust survivors were looking for justice. Their intention was to bring all Nazi war criminals to trial. In 1960 the Israeli intelligence service was tipped of Eichmann’s presence in Argentina. After much verification and reassurances, it was confirmed that it was Eichmann indeed. Plans were made to dispatch a special team to Argentina for his capture and return to Israel. Many books and movies have revealed the full story of this daring operation hence the writer will not get into the mission details. Eichmann was captured on May 11, 1960, by the Israeli team when he was returning home after work. On 20, May he was flown out of Argentina secretly

Argentina was furious and called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council in June 1960 in the wake of fruitless negotiations with Israel. At the council the Israeli representative Golda Meir (later prime minister of Israel) countered the accusation of the Argentinian authorities of violation of their sovereignty by arguing that the abductors of this fugitive were not Israeli agents, but private individuals and hence, this incident was only an “isolated violation of Argentinian Law”. Later Argentina and Israel issued a joint statement on August 3, admitting the violation of territorial integrity of Argentina, but agreeing to end the dispute.

Gideon Hausner the attorney general of Israel, signed a bill indictment against Eichmann on 15 accounts, including crimes against Jewish people and crimes against humanity. The trial began on April 11, 1961, and the prosecutors called witnesses to testify and presented hundreds of documents as proof. Israel and the rest of the world listened to the unspeakable horrors committed against humanity by Germany and its Nazi leaders.

Otto Adolf Eichmann was found guilty on December 12, 1961, and was sentenced to death by hanging. Eichmann petitioned Yitzhak Ben-Zvi, the second president of Israel (from 1952-1963), along with Eichmann’s wife Vera and brothers for clemency. Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion convened a special cabinet meeting to resolve the issue. The cabinet decided not to grant presidential clemency to Eichmann.

On May 31, 1962 just before midnight the sentence was carried out at Ayalon prison, Ramla, Israel. His execution was attended by a few officials, four journalists and a Canadian clergyman, his spiritual counsellor while he was in prison. After his body was cremated, the ashes were scattered in the Sea beyond Israel’s territorial waters.

Though ancient history records many stories of caring for sick and elderly by institutions and individuals, Florence Nightingale laid the foundation of professional nursing in the 19^th century.  

To ensure standards are maintained for patience at all times nurses were taught ethics, knowledge, and techniques related to management in nursing. In earlier days many young women were attracted to this noblest profession, and later males too joined in. Caring for the needy had been always a challenge. The ongoing pandemic has relived many stories of nursing staff’s courage and heroism from all over the world. By now they have stretched their services above and beyond, but still continue their efforts in supporting patience and saving lives.

Who can predict what lays in the future? Any medical crises will make the nursing staff tiring and stressed. It is time that health authorities take appropriate measures to ensure nursing staff’s wellbeing further.

 Below given facts highlights their present-day role and challenges.

Statistics courtesy by International council of Nurses.

We thank you for your services.

In 2010, FIFA officially announced that Qatar would be the host for the 2022 soccer world cup. Five countries made their bid to host the competition, the global game which was understood by all ages. Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter told the press “We go to new lands. The Middle East and Arabic world has been waiting for a long time. So I’m a happy president when we talk about the development of football.”

For the Good of the Game

No doubt this was a glorious moment for the country, a soccer-loving nation, and the fans will have their memorable moments of the tournament. This was their first qualification in the world cup history and will do everything possible to be competitive.  

 Despite all the excitement world attention was drawn to one significant matter. Concerns on Human Rights for migrant workers who were involved in building the much-needed stadiums. Meanwhile, UK daily newspaper The Guardian claimed that more than 6500 workers have died on stadium construction sites since the World Cup was awarded to the Gulf State in 2010.

 Human Rights record was never a favored subject within the Gulf States, despite thousands of labour force being attracted each year from different countries for employment opportunities. History and present-day incidents reveal many tragedies. It was a proven fact that Qatar was not following work ethics, health, and safety policies, and other labour welfare matters. Asian nationals from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka migrant workers had to undergo devastating hardship when work started on the eight stadiums.

This particular news became headlines. Soccer playing nations, other Human Rights protection institutes, and media showed concerns. Going one step further International football teams from Europe started showing their support towards “safety of all workers” by wearing jerseys with slogans before the commencement of their qualification round matches. The Dutch team message was “Football support change” and the German team “Human Rights” and Norwegians “Human Rights on and off the field”. It was a very strong signal to the host and a sign of hope to all migrant workers.

The world’s attention was building. The Gulf State came under pressure and agreed to implement new work guidelines on safety for its workers. The involvement of the International Labour Organization (ILO) made matters more pressing for the Gulf nation. At the same time, new implementations of the labour law were highly acknowledged by institutions worldwide including Amnesty International.

Going further there are other areas officials need to work on. Have the authorities compensated all workers who lost their lives up to now? Why wasn’t more attention not shown earlier by the concerned parties to provide better working conditions for the migrant workers? Had it been done, could many lives have been saved?

For the finals, 24 teams will qualify. The tournament itself will not be second to other previous tournaments. The Gulf nation will throw all its resources to bring the event to a success. Nothing wrong with that. Qatar’s team will perform at the highest level, speedy and dribbling South Americans will come storming. Determined African nations will make their presence felt, Europe will bring adventure and style. Asia will bring their own glamour. All teams will play with great sportsmanship and finally, only one nation will be crowned as world champions.

Germany and Netherlands join Norway in Qatar World Cup human rights message

Keeping to traditions team players will stand in front of their national flags singing their national anthems before each game.

At that very moment, from their hearts they will not forget to pay respect and gratitude to all people who made this possible especially to those migrant workers who lost their precious lives trying to make this beautiful game possible.  

Bono, Penélope and more stars in animated series on vaccine importance

With the health concerns of one Covid 19 vaccine, some countries have imposed temporary halts on vaccinating their population against the Pandemic. Concerns have arisen whether it is the correct decision after all.  As usual, someone can come to the conclusion, if these decisions were based on political reasoning or scientific reasoning. Further adding fuel to the fire it’s believed that few so-called “rich” countries have stockpiled vaccination doses in addition to their requirements. Where will all these lead? Some low-income countries have not got a single vaccination dose to date. Will some be left behind at the end? What will be the solution way forward?

What is the best Vaccine? What ever you can get – WHO

Meanwhile, ONE Campaign an organization based in the United States has taken the initiative to produce a seven-episode animation release called” Pandemica” to draw positive global attention on vaccine access to all, in order to bring an end to the current pandemic crises. The animated episodes will be released in the United States, Canada, some countries in Europe and Africa, and South Africa in few days.

Renowned celebrities have shown their concerns too and have agreed to join the campaign to help voice the animated characters. Their effort is to bring awareness to the importance of vaccinating everyone against the Pandemic. U2 frontman, Penelope Cruz, David Oyelowo, and many more will lend voices to the success of this animated series. They believe creating opportunities for all to be vaccinated will help to see the light at the end of the tunnel. 

No matter what the final outcome may be their efforts are to be commended. Looking at a positive perspective we must hope for better results as animation-based movies and TV series and their messages have managed to bring powerful messages to all ages and groups. 

The series is illustrated by artist Andrew Rae with animation by Titmouse and music and sound design by Father, and created and produced in partnership with Hive.

Andrew Rae work – “The science of Happiness” published in the New York Times.

Who is this Andrew Rae?

Andrew Rae is an illustrator who uses simple hand rendered line and a combination of paper, felt pens, watercolour, ipad, iMac and Wacom pads and screens to render irreverent images of characters, ghouls, robots, machines and creatures which are used in an editorial, publishing, advertising, animation and mural context. He is a regular contributor to The New York Times Magazine and has worked for many clients worldwide including Apple, The London Science Museum, Google and The Guardian.

He was art director on the award winning BBC animation Monkey Dust, his graphic novel “Moonhead and the Music Machine” is published by Nobrow and he has illustrated “This is Warhol”, “This is Dali”, “Where’s Warhol” and “My Crazy Inventions Sketchbook” published by Laurence King. He currently lives and works in London near Highgate Cemetery.

Ayurveda, or Ayurvedic medicine, is a healthy-lifestyle system that has been in practice for more than 5000 years in India. Unlike western medicine it offers preventive aspects as well and has many options for curative treatments too. The principal is to balance one’s lifestyle and create the opportunity to enjoy many benefits. Treatments are offered after consultation of each person by the Ayurveda physician and the purpose is to identify each body type. According to Ayurveda body types are categorized as, Vata, Pitta and Kapha which is known as Tri Dosas. This is why the first consultation will be very important. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is thought that if an imbalance occurs in any of the three Dosas, illness results. 

In Sri Lanka Ayurveda practices are based on indigenous traditions and customs. Our own approach to healing has been unique and recognized world over. Discovering the oldest hospital in Sri Lanka itself holds valid proof. In our culture healing is considered holy and a noble cause and is practiced by Buddhist priests, native medical practitioners and other Ayurveda institutes.  Traditional medicine systems are well documented and protected throughout history. 

Some of the treatment options

• Stress relief and mind relaxation programmes
• Beauty therapy and facials
• Shirodahara oil treatments
• Weight reducing packages
• Detox programmes
• Treating skin ailments
• Steam and sauna
• Panchakarma
• Rejuvenation programmes
• Sleeping disorders
• Yoga and meditation programmes
• Food nutrition and balance diet

Some of the benefits and values

• Help sleep better
• Increases blood circulation
• Feels more energetic
• Glossy and healthy skin
• Increases appetite
• Removes toxins from your body
• Balances hormones
• Reduces risk of disease and many more
• Removes body odor
• Controls cholesterol and diabetic

Few tips to consider before taking Ayurveda treatments.

• The Ayurveda institution should have a valid license issued by the Ayurveda department of Sri Lanka.
• Every Ayurveda institution should have an Ayurveda doctor available for consultation before treatments. Remember, Ayurveda cannot be offered without consultation and treatment will be recommended to suit your body constitution.
• If possible make an appointment first
• Wear light clothes when you go for treatments
• Notify your present medical conditions to the physician. If you have any past medical reports and prescriptions take them with you.
• Notify any allergies to medicine and food.
• Oils, herbs and oral medicine will be used for treatments.
• Check for benefits, clear any doubts and get advice to live a better lifestyle.
• If you are not comfortable during treatments notify the therapists/ doctor
• Give feedback after treatment.
• Follow up on medical advice.

Ayurvedic medicine is holistic, which means viewing the body and mind as a whole. Get to know better speak to your Ayurveda physician. Enjoy life.

CONTD…

Katuwapitiya is a quiet suburb where people have lived in harmony for many centuries with unity among multicultural and multi-religious societies. On that fateful day, a man walked into the church of St. Sebastian in Katuwapitiya, and blew himself up just before the conclusion of Easter Sunday’s mass, killing and wounding scores of people for a reason only he knew.

Sri Lanka’s history reveals many stories of innocent civilians falling victim to unspeakable crimes due to the obsessions of one man or group. These individuals take matters into their own hands and break all rules of the land as they attempt to fulfill their beliefs violently. These perpetrators find justification for their actions as always, but innocent people of society have always been the target, suffering mostly for a reason unknown to them. Some victims live with physical and mental scars to this day, seeking answers and justice for themselves, and their loved ones from the people who were responsible for their safety.

Pasidu, a young and active resident within the village, as well as a prefect at Joseph Vaz College in Wennappuwa, Sri Lanka, was able to convey to me, a family’s devastating experience throughout the terrorist attack on April 21, 2019.

I met with the family; Mr. Ramon Peiris, his mother Mrs. Charlotte Peries and young son. Roman’s wife Mrs. Ruklanthi Fernando (fondly known as “Chuti”) who was the pillar of the house, had fallen victim that fateful day. I was kindly welcomed into their home and was greeted with typical Sri Lankan warmth. Yes, they were smiling, and showing hospitality, but their expressions were showing sadness of their loss. After a brief introduction, we settled down to recollect what unfolded during the tragic event with Mrs. Peiris and Roman.   

Q: Mrs. Peiris, what is your relationship with the family?

A: “I am Roman’s mother. I lost my daughter-in-law during the bombing.”

Q: How long have you lived in Katuwapitiya?

A: “For the past 20 years.”

Q: Could you recall what happened that day?

A: “I was right in front of the church, where the priests stood. Suddenly I felt a dark cloud covering me. Pieces of tile began falling on me, and I started feeling dizzy. Blood was pouring, and I told my son to tell “chuti” (my daughter-in-law) to take me to the hospital but my son stood there, stunned. [As time went by], my son with the help of my granddaughter, who was [originally] with her mother, had sent “Chuti” to the hospital. Pasidu also helped us take her to the hospital. Later, I learned that my daughter-in-law had died instantly in the church itself. I was treated for head injuries and I still feel the pain and dizziness [to this day]. Thankfully, my son and grandchildren escaped unscathed.”

Q: Where were you Roman, at the time of the attack?

A: “I was outside of the church because of the crowd. Normally, I do that. After the explosion, I rushed in to help.” 

Q: Tell me about the children. How are they managing with all of this?

A: Roman’s daughter is boarded in a convent in Kandy. My younger son is with me and I am planning to board him too. I am worried about their education. My main concern is our children. My youngest son, though he is sad, does not think of [the attack] much. My daughter is the one who suffers most. She had seen what happened and helped her mother to be transported to the hospital. Their children are my main concern until they get married. After that, maybe I will be okay. I must work to fulfil their mother’s [role], but we need help.”

Q: Roman, how are you managing the overall situation?

A: “Lack of financial support is our main difficulty. I was employed before working in England. However, for the last nine years, [I have been under] treatment for depression. [Currently, I work] with a cousin of mine, and I sell spare parts and try to manage the day to day expenses. My wife and I’s savings are kept for the children. We try to take life day by day, but we have no big hopes.”

Mrs. Peiris joined in and stated that their main worries are the expenses for medicine and the education of the children. Earlier, assistance was provided well by the government and the Church. Since time has passed, things have become difficult. We manage from the savings and survive day by day.

Q: What support do you get from the fellow neighbours?

A: “They were very supportive at the beginning but everyone has difficulties and problems of their own. [Due to this,] help does not arrive as before. No one is to be blamed. They helped when they could and we must appreciate that. There are other victims too, not only us.”

Q: What are the family’s main concerns now?

A: “Children’s education and our medicine. True the Church and the authorities did provide assistance but we feel very helpless when thinking of the future of our children and our health. We need to be in good health to look after them.”

Q: What do you have in mind at this moment Mrs. Peiris?

A: “The children. They don’t have anyone to call “mother” now. They are growing, and the future looks uncertain without proper support. At least if someone can help the children to lead a good life and to finish their education, it will be a blessing. I was interviewed many times by the media, and have articles to show. (I was presented with some articles). I am still getting treatments and feel better, but the pain inside me remains. I was in the hospital for two days and came back for my daughter-in-law’s funeral. Lord Jesus will sort the matter and we will wait patiently with faith.”

(I did not press on the matter further since she was feeling very uncomfortable and was very emotional)

Q: Roman, do you wish to add anything? Future?

A: “I hope these types of incidents will not occur again. Sometimes I feel that after everything is forgotten, [will these incidents] come back…I don’t know but I feel [they will]. I hope there will be justice soon for us and the loved ones we lost. We must bring all of [terrorists] in front of the law. Everything changed in a moment, and for us, everything changed forever.

My wife was our strength and guidance. She was a courageous lady and preferred for me to stay at home since I am sick. She went to work and looked after the family’s needs. I can’t think clearly of what a future is without her. We feel our strength is taken away from us.

It was nice to see someone coming after so long and for making inquiries…earlier we had a lot of people coming, but not so much anymore. We understand that we are not the only ones who are suffering. It just feels good when someone makes an occasional visit. 

We believe there will be more help coming for us all.”

Pasidu who made this possible had few words to say on behalf of this family.

“Ruklanthi Akka, (Chuti) was an example to all. She was a devoted wife, mother and friend to all. She had a good relationship with everyone and was a kind-hearted person. She provided help to many, including me in educational needs. 

The villagers too have provided all families with support wherever possible and will continue to do so in the future. We need people, not power and money. We must understand true life, and that one must travel on the path that God has set for us, and be ready to answer his loving call.”

Let it be a message to all.

In Conclusion,

No society could move forward amidst crime and violence. But regrettably, for some reason, certain countries pay less attention to countering or preventing them. The word “public safety” has been discussed widely as never before. In the absence of safety, any society will come under threat or attack, resulting in a higher causality rate whatever the nature of the violence. 

All parties in the community should support and act in unity in protecting society and prevent it from collapsing further. By doing so we will be able to bring justice and peace for individuals, and families like Mr. Peiris who had fallen victim to an unspeakable act of violence.

Special thanks to Mr. Peiris and family, Pasidu, and Claude for their time and support to make this story published.