A number of things have got on the way of my posting lately, so this has been quiet for a while now… While at the moment I have nothing really interesting to say, I’ve thought that, in order not to keep in silence for too long, I’d share two interesting initiatives I have come accross recently:
First the Africa Portal:

an online knowledge resource for policy-related issues on Africa. An undertaking by the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), Makerere University (MAK), and the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), the Africa Portal offers open access to a suite of features including an online library collection; a resource for opinion and analysis; an experts directory; an international events calendar; and a mobile technology component—all aimed to equip users with research and information on Africa’s current policy issues.

A more than welcome resource for all those interested on African politics.

Second, the Humanitarian Response Index 2010, launched by Dara.
Now in its fourth edition, this year’s report’s main finding is that:

the increasing politicization and militarization of humanitarian aid which compromises effective assistance to vulnerable populations and endangers humanitarian workers.

An extremely worrying trend seen in places likes Somalia, Sudan or Pakistan. Full report here.