Two men featured in a 2019 documentary alleging sexual abuse by Michael Jackson were given the go-ahead on Friday to pursue claims against two of the late singer's companies. 
 
A California appeals court ruled that Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who appeared in '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/trailer-of-michael-jacksons-controversial-documentary-leaving-neverland-is-out-198495">Leaving Neverland'</a>,&nbsp;could pursue their claims because of a change in California law. 
 
Robson and Safechuck say they were befriended by Jackson and were abused by him from the ages of 7 and 10 in the early 1990s. 
 
Jackson died in 2009, but the singer's family has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/michael-jacksons-family-defends-late-singer-over-sexual-abuse-claims-calls-film-public-lynching-193567">denied the claims</a> and described 'Leaving Neverland'&nbsp;as a public lynching.&nbsp;Jackson was acquitted at a 2005 trial in California on charges of molesting a different, 13-year-old, boy. 
 
A lower court had dismissed lawsuits brought by the two, now adult, men because California's statute of limitations had required that claims of childhood sexual assault be filed before an accuser's 26th birthday. The revised law, which came into effect on Jan. 1, extends the period until an accuser's 40th birthday. 
 
"We are pleased that the Court&nbsp;has&nbsp;recognized the strong protections California&nbsp;has put into&nbsp;place for sexual abuse victims&nbsp;under&nbsp;the state's new law extending the statute of limitations," Vince Finaldi, the lawyer for the two men, said in a statement after the ruling by the Second Appellate District in the California Court of Appeals. 
 
"We look forward to sharing the&nbsp;facts of the terrible abuse&nbsp;of James Safechuck and Wade Robson with a jury," Finaldi added. 
 
An attorney for Jackson's estate said he was confident that both lawsuits, against MJJ Productions and MJJ Ventures, would be dismissed. 
 
"The Court of Appeal's ruling merely revived lawsuits against Michael Jackson's companies, which absurdly claim that Michael's employees are somehow responsible for sexual abuse that never happened," attorney Howard Weitzman said in a statement. 
 
The appeal court said it was not ruling on the truth of the allegations by Robson and Safechuck but said they involved accusations of "a disturbing years-long pattern of child sexual abuse by international superstar Michael Jackson."

Two men featured in a 2019 documentary alleging sexual abuse by Michael Jackson were given the go-ahead on Friday to pursue claims against two of the late singer's companies.

Two men featured in a 2019 documentary alleging sexual abuse by Michael Jackson were given the go-ahead on Friday to pursue claims against two of the late singer's companies. A California appeals court ruled that Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who appeared in 'Leaving Neverland', could pursue their claims because of a change in California law. Robson and Safechuck say they were befriended by Jackson and were abused by him from the ages of 7 and 10 in the early 1990s. Jackson died in 2009, but the singer's family has denied the claims and described 'Leaving Neverland' as a public lynching. Jackson was acquitted at a 2005 trial in California on charges of molesting a different, 13-year-old, boy. A lower court had dismissed lawsuits brought by the two, now adult, men because California's statute of limitations had required that claims of childhood sexual assault be filed before an accuser's 26th birthday. The revised law, which came into effect on Jan. 1, extends the period until an accuser's 40th birthday. "We are pleased that the Court has recognized the strong protections California has put into place for sexual abuse victims under the state's new law extending the statute of limitations," Vince Finaldi, the lawyer for the two men, said in a statement after the ruling by the Second Appellate District in the California Court of Appeals. "We look forward to sharing the facts of the terrible abuse of James Safechuck and Wade Robson with a jury," Finaldi added. An attorney for Jackson's estate said he was confident that both lawsuits, against MJJ Productions and MJJ Ventures, would be dismissed. "The Court of Appeal's ruling merely revived lawsuits against Michael Jackson's companies, which absurdly claim that Michael's employees are somehow responsible for sexual abuse that never happened," attorney Howard Weitzman said in a statement. The appeal court said it was not ruling on the truth of the allegations by Robson and Safechuck but said they involved accusations of "a disturbing years-long pattern of child sexual abuse by international superstar Michael Jackson."

'Leaving Neverland' accusers can pursue lawsuits against Michael Jackson's companies, appeals court

American actor Kevin Spacey has settled the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kevin-spacey-sexual-assault-case-may-get-dropped-accuser-could-be-forced-to-testify-about-missing-phone-234144">sexual harassment</a>&nbsp;case brought against him by an unnamed massage therapist who died earlier this year. 
 
As per the Hollywood reporter, the settlement terms between the actor and the accuser's son who died on September six had not been revealed and a federal judge still had to sign. 
 
The masseuse filed a complaint under John Doe, claiming that Spacey attacked him at a massage session in Malibu three years ago. The star was accused of trying to fondle the accuser's genitals and attempting to kiss him. 
 
Nevertheless, as per the Hollywood reporter, after the alleged victim expired, the court permitted the special administrative officer of his estate, his son, as a defendant in litigation. 
 
Spaceys and the son's both attorneys agreed that the lawsuit should be dismissed by prejudice, which is to say that it could not be filed again, said the Federal Court paperwork lodged in California on Monday. 
 
Spacey has been accused of sexual misconduct by over a dozen people. One of them was the ex-husband of Princess Martha Louise of Norway, Ari Behn, who accused Spacey in 2007 of taming him under a table. On Christmas Day Behn committed suicide.

American actor Kevin Spacey has settled the sexual harassment case brought against him by an unnamed massage therapist who died earlier this year. As per the Hollywood reporter, the settlement terms between the actor and the accuser's son who died on September six had not been revealed and a federal judge still had to sign.

American actor Kevin Spacey has settled the sexual harassment case brought against him by an unnamed massage therapist who died earlier this year. As per the Hollywood reporter, the settlement terms between the actor and the accuser's son who died on September six had not been revealed and a federal judge still had to sign. The masseuse filed a complaint under John Doe, claiming that Spacey attacked him at a massage session in Malibu three years ago. The star was accused of trying to fondle the accuser's genitals and attempting to kiss him. Nevertheless, as per the Hollywood reporter, after the alleged victim expired, the court permitted the special administrative officer of his estate, his son, as a defendant in litigation. Spaceys and the son's both attorneys agreed that the lawsuit should be dismissed by prejudice, which is to say that it could not be filed again, said the Federal Court paperwork lodged in California on Monday. Spacey has been accused of sexual misconduct by over a dozen people. One of them was the ex-husband of Princess Martha Louise of Norway, Ari Behn, who accused Spacey in 2007 of taming him under a table. On Christmas Day Behn committed suicide.

Kevin Spacey settles sexual assault case after death of accuser

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-arrives-in-thailand-at-start-of-asia-trip-263302">Pope Francis</a> on Tuesday issued sweeping changes to the way the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catholic-church-spared-no-effort-fight-abuse-scandals-pope-francis-167693">Roman Catholic Church</a> deals with cases of sexual abuse of minors, abolishing the rule of "pontifical secrecy" that previously covered them.

Two documents issued by the pope cover practices that have been in place for some time in some countries, including reporting suspicion of sex abuse to civil authorities where required by law.

The documents also forbid imposing an obligation of silence on those who report sex abuse or allege to have been a victim.

The lifting of "pontifical secrecy" in cases of sex abuse investigations was a key demand by Church leaders at a summit on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/metoo-sexual-abuse-survivors-lash-harvey-weinstein-over-25-million-settlement-offer-268104">sexual abuse</a> held at the Vatican in February.

One of the documents also raises to 18 or under from 14 or under the age that pictures of individuals can be considered child pornography "for purposes of sexual gratification, by whatever means or using whatever technology".

Both of the documents issued on Tuesday are known as rescriptums, where the pope uses his authority to rewrite specific articles of canon law or parts of previous papal documents.

Pope Francis on Tuesday issued sweeping changes to the way the Roman Catholic Church deals with cases of sexual abuse of minors, abolishing the rule of "pontifical secrecy" that previously covered them.

Pope Francis on Tuesday issued sweeping changes to the way the Roman Catholic Church deals with cases of sexual abuse of minors, abolishing the rule of "pontifical secrecy" that previously covered them. Two documents issued by the pope cover practices that have been in place for some time in some countries, including reporting suspicion of sex abuse to civil authorities where required by law. The documents also forbid imposing an obligation of silence on those who report sex abuse or allege to have been a victim. The lifting of "pontifical secrecy" in cases of sex abuse investigations was a key demand by Church leaders at a summit on sexual abuse held at the Vatican in February. One of the documents also raises to 18 or under from 14 or under the age that pictures of individuals can be considered child pornography "for purposes of sexual gratification, by whatever means or using whatever technology". Both of the documents issued on Tuesday are known as rescriptums, where the pope uses his authority to rewrite specific articles of canon law or parts of previous papal documents.

Pope abolishes 'pontifical secrecy' for sex abuse investigations

A rape survivor was set ablaze in Bihar area of Uttar Pradesh's Unnao on Thursday morning.

The victim has been referred to Lucknow, said Vikrant Vir, Superintendent of Police, Unnao.

"The victim has been referred to a hospital in Lucknow for better treatment. We have rounded up the three accused, search for the other two is underway. The victim had earlier filed a rape case, one accused in that case has also been rounded up," Vir told media here.

A rape survivor was set ablaze in Bihar area of Uttar Pradesh's Unnao on Thursday morning. The victim has been referred to Lucknow, said Vikrant Vir, Superintendent of Police, Unnao.

A rape survivor was set ablaze in Bihar area of Uttar Pradesh's Unnao on Thursday morning. The victim has been referred to Lucknow, said Vikrant Vir, Superintendent of Police, Unnao. "The victim has been referred to a hospital in Lucknow for better treatment. We have rounded up the three accused, search for the other two is underway. The victim had earlier filed a rape case, one accused in that case has also been rounded up," Vir told media here.

Rape survivor set ablaze in Unnao

A woman who accuses Jeffrey Epstein of sexually abusing her as a child on Monday said Britain’s Prince Andrew should tell U.S. authorities what he knows about the financier.

Another woman accuses Jeffrey Epstein of sexual abuse

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon.

The director, who is popularly known as Jami, rocked Pakistani social media over the weekend after he published several tweets describing the alleged assault that happened 13 years ago.

"Why I'm so strongly supporting #metoo? cuz I know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz I was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world," he wrote Sunday evening.

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Why im so strongly supporting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/metoo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#metoo</a> ? cuz i know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz i was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world. A Giant actually. and yes im taller than him but
— jami (@jamiazaad) <a href="https://twitter.com/jamiazaad/status/1185980753584316418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The tweets were in response to a backlash online after a professor in the eastern city of Lahore committed suicide after allegedly being falsely accused of sexual harassment.

Amid the backlash, Jami pleaded with social media users to trust victims of sexual assault and avoid ignoring their accusations.

"I told my few close friends but no one took it seriously," added Jami, whose 2015 film 'Moor'&nbsp;('Mothe') was a massive hit.

The film-maker has so far refused to name the tycoon allegedly behind the assault, while the allegations have unleashed a torrent of differing reactions online.

"@jamiazaad I see you. I hear&nbsp;you. I stand with you. Always," tweeted popular actress Meesha Shafi -- who helped kickstart Pakistan's #MeToo movement in 2018 after accusing a popular singer in the country of harassment -- on Thursday.

"Jami is a true ally. This is unprecedented in Pakistan. This kind of revelation from a man" wrote Twitter user Khizra.&nbsp;

Others were more sceptical.

"Still, u cant b serious using it to square Lhr professor's suicide &amp; misuse of #MeToo," said another Twitter user Razi. "Pakistan is suffering by both #metoo &amp; misuse of #MeToo."

"No #MeToo here. Should have said No, but succumbed," wrote Ali Raj in response to a blog about the story.

The #MeToo and #Timesup campaigns have gone global since allegations of sexual misconduct by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein in 2017, sparking an avalanche of accusations against other powerful men.

However, the movement has been slow to catch on in Pakistan, where women have fought for their rights for years in a patriarchal society where so-called "honour" killings and attacks on women remain commonplace.

In 2017, future Prime Minister Imran Khan was also hit with allegations of sexual misconduct by a female lawmaker who accused the famed cricketer of sending obscene text messages.&nbsp;

He later denied the allegations.

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon.

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon. The director, who is popularly known as Jami, rocked Pakistani social media over the weekend after he published several tweets describing the alleged assault that happened 13 years ago. "Why I'm so strongly supporting #metoo? cuz I know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz I was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world," he wrote Sunday evening. Why im so strongly supporting #metoo ? cuz i know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz i was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world. A Giant actually. and yes im taller than him but — jami (@jamiazaad) October 20, 2019 × The tweets were in response to a backlash online after a professor in the eastern city of Lahore committed suicide after allegedly being falsely accused of sexual harassment. Amid the backlash, Jami pleaded with social media users to trust victims of sexual assault and avoid ignoring their accusations. "I told my few close friends but no one took it seriously," added Jami, whose 2015 film 'Moor' ('Mothe') was a massive hit. The film-maker has so far refused to name the tycoon allegedly behind the assault, while the allegations have unleashed a torrent of differing reactions online. "@jamiazaad I see you. I hear you. I stand with you. Always," tweeted popular actress Meesha Shafi -- who helped kickstart Pakistan's #MeToo movement in 2018 after accusing a popular singer in the country of harassment -- on Thursday. "Jami is a true ally. This is unprecedented in Pakistan. This kind of revelation from a man" wrote Twitter user Khizra. Others were more sceptical. "Still, u cant b serious using it to square Lhr professor's suicide & misuse of #MeToo," said another Twitter user Razi. "Pakistan is suffering by both #metoo & misuse of #MeToo." "No #MeToo here. Should have said No, but succumbed," wrote Ali Raj in response to a blog about the story. The #MeToo and #Timesup campaigns have gone global since allegations of sexual misconduct by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein in 2017, sparking an avalanche of accusations against other powerful men. However, the movement has been slow to catch on in Pakistan, where women have fought for their rights for years in a patriarchal society where so-called "honour" killings and attacks on women remain commonplace. In 2017, future Prime Minister Imran Khan was also hit with allegations of sexual misconduct by a female lawmaker who accused the famed cricketer of sending obscene text messages. He later denied the allegations.

Filmmaker in Pakistan stirs #MeToo debate, claims he was raped by media tycoon

Days after three women accused him of sexual misconduct; a nightclub server has sued Academy Award winner Cuba Gooding Jr. for sexual battery. 
 
Natasha Ashworth, the nightclub employee alleged that the actor pinched her last year. She had previously spoken on the matter to New York law enforcement; however, her name wasn't made public, reported a magazine. 
 
This new claim comes after the Oscar-winner was indicted last week on four misdemeanor counts. The 51-year old pleaded not guilty and is due back in court on December 13. The nightclub employee in her suit mentioned the details about the incident claiming that she was serving Gooding's table, when he asked her, "Do you want to see my impression of a p***s?" to which she replied in negative. 
 
Gooding Jr. then drank from his glass and spit the liquid out of his mouth after which Ashworth walked away. Later at around 4 in the morning, the complainant was standing at the bar when Gooding Jr. came and pinched her butt, according to the suit. 
 
"Don't touch my butt," she had said to which the actor replied, "Aw, that's no fun". The situation escalated and Gooding went to talk to the manager. After a conversation with the manager, he returned to touch the employee again, as per the suit. 
 
The suit also states that it was the first time in Ashworth's four years as a server that a customer had subjected her to such sexually aggressive behavior. The 'Coming to America'&nbsp;actor has also been accused of groping a woman at the Magic Hour Rooftop Bar in New York in June.

Days after three women accused him of sexual misconduct; a nightclub server has sued Academy Award winner Cuba Gooding Jr. for sexual battery. Natasha Ashworth, the nightclub employee alleged that the actor pinched her last year.

Days after three women accused him of sexual misconduct; a nightclub server has sued Academy Award winner Cuba Gooding Jr. for sexual battery. Natasha Ashworth, the nightclub employee alleged that the actor pinched her last year. She had previously spoken on the matter to New York law enforcement; however, her name wasn't made public, reported a magazine. This new claim comes after the Oscar-winner was indicted last week on four misdemeanor counts. The 51-year old pleaded not guilty and is due back in court on December 13. The nightclub employee in her suit mentioned the details about the incident claiming that she was serving Gooding's table, when he asked her, "Do you want to see my impression of a p***s?" to which she replied in negative. Gooding Jr. then drank from his glass and spit the liquid out of his mouth after which Ashworth walked away. Later at around 4 in the morning, the complainant was standing at the bar when Gooding Jr. came and pinched her butt, according to the suit. "Don't touch my butt," she had said to which the actor replied, "Aw, that's no fun". The situation escalated and Gooding went to talk to the manager. After a conversation with the manager, he returned to touch the employee again, as per the suit. The suit also states that it was the first time in Ashworth's four years as a server that a customer had subjected her to such sexually aggressive behavior. The 'Coming to America' actor has also been accused of groping a woman at the Magic Hour Rooftop Bar in New York in June.

Cuba Gooding Jr sued for allegedly pinching Nightclub employee

The former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned for five years and fined after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of violations relating to the abuse of female players.

The world soccer body said in a statement that the investigation into Sayed Aghazada concerned complaints lodged by several female Afghan football players against former AFF president Keramuudin Karim.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-afghan-football-president-banned-for-life-225544">Karim was banned for life </a>in June.

The female players' complaints related to sexual abuse between 2013 and 2018, at a time when Aghazada was the AFF’s general secretary.

"In its decision, the adjudicatory chamber ruled that Mr Aghazada was aware of this abuse and had the duty to report and prevent it according to the FIFA Code of Ethics," FIFA said on Friday.

"Consequently, the adjudicatory chamber found that Mr Aghazada had breached ... the FIFA Code of Ethics and sanctioned him with a ban ... for five years. In addition, a fine in the amount of 10,000 Swiss francs ($10,000) has been imposed."

Aghazada was also a FIFA standing committee member and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Executive Committee member.

The former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned for five years and fined after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of violations relating to the abuse of female players.

The former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned for five years and fined after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of violations relating to the abuse of female players. The world soccer body said in a statement that the investigation into Sayed Aghazada concerned complaints lodged by several female Afghan football players against former AFF president Keramuudin Karim. Karim was banned for life in June. The female players' complaints related to sexual abuse between 2013 and 2018, at a time when Aghazada was the AFF’s general secretary. "In its decision, the adjudicatory chamber ruled that Mr Aghazada was aware of this abuse and had the duty to report and prevent it according to the FIFA Code of Ethics," FIFA said on Friday. "Consequently, the adjudicatory chamber found that Mr Aghazada had breached ... the FIFA Code of Ethics and sanctioned him with a ban ... for five years. In addition, a fine in the amount of 10,000 Swiss francs ($10,000) has been imposed." Aghazada was also a FIFA standing committee member and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Executive Committee member.

FIFA bans former Afghan General Secretary in sexual abuse enquiry

Young hopefuls at Premier League giants Chelsea were abused for years by a "prolific and manipulative" coach as staff at the club "turned a blind eye", an independent report said Tuesday.

The report, led by lawyer Charles Geekie, found that the club's former chief scout Eddie Heath, who died in 1983, was able to operate "unchallenged", abusing boys aged between 10 and 17 in the 1970s.

Victims recalled that Heath used "sexual innuendo" in the changing room, but made sure "that his most serious sexual assaults took place in private," it added.

Heath's behaviour was an open secret among players and staff.

"The boys all knew it was safety in numbers, you didn't want to be the last in the van, you risked being groped by him or having your bum slapped. He was regarded as 'Nightmare Eddie'," one witness said.

Chelsea said in a statement that "Heath was a dangerous and prolific child abuser" whose conduct was "beyond reprehensible".

"Although the club today is a very different place from the club then... we will not shy away from responsibility for what happened in the past," it added.

Claims for compensation are being assessed by insurers for the former European champions.

'Manipulative risk-taker'

Heath was sacked when England World Cup-winning hero Geoff Hurst took over the club in 1979. But the former striker, now aged 77, denied knowing about Heath's behaviour and turned down requests to be interviewed for the report.

Geekie talked to 23 witnesses who claim that they were targeted by Heath, saying they painted a picture of an "audacious, manipulative risk-taker".

One witness said staff and players "must have known or been suspicious of what he was doing... but turned a blind eye to it."

One former player described how Heath would come into the urinals and watch, while another said he peered over the shower cubicle while he was inside.

Heath would lavish praise on his "favourites", inviting them around to his house to watch football matches, offering out money and sweets and befriending their parents.

Many said they were fearful of telling the authorities and getting Heath into trouble, while others "wanted to impress him" to ensure they kept being picked.

One former player said the abuse had had a "massive impact on me and my family".

Veteran manager Dario Gradi, who worked at Chelsea at the time, also came in for criticism, with the report finding he failed to report Heath despite receiving a complaint that he had indecently assaulted a boy in the showers.

Ex-Chelsea football star Alan Hudson said it was "common knowledge" that Heath was a paedophile.

"It was common knowledge that Eddie Heath was a 'nonce' (slang for paedophile)," Hudson wrote on Facebook when the allegations first surfaced.

Players from other London clubs he worked for, Leyton Orient and Charlton, also came forward about his predatory behaviour.

Young hopefuls at Premier League giants Chelsea were abused for years by a "prolific and manipulative" coach as staff at the club "turned a blind eye", an independent report said Tuesday.

Young hopefuls at Premier League giants Chelsea were abused for years by a "prolific and manipulative" coach as staff at the club "turned a blind eye", an independent report said Tuesday. The report, led by lawyer Charles Geekie, found that the club's former chief scout Eddie Heath, who died in 1983, was able to operate "unchallenged", abusing boys aged between 10 and 17 in the 1970s. Victims recalled that Heath used "sexual innuendo" in the changing room, but made sure "that his most serious sexual assaults took place in private," it added. Heath's behaviour was an open secret among players and staff. "The boys all knew it was safety in numbers, you didn't want to be the last in the van, you risked being groped by him or having your bum slapped. He was regarded as 'Nightmare Eddie'," one witness said. Chelsea said in a statement that "Heath was a dangerous and prolific child abuser" whose conduct was "beyond reprehensible". "Although the club today is a very different place from the club then... we will not shy away from responsibility for what happened in the past," it added. Claims for compensation are being assessed by insurers for the former European champions. 'Manipulative risk-taker' Heath was sacked when England World Cup-winning hero Geoff Hurst took over the club in 1979. But the former striker, now aged 77, denied knowing about Heath's behaviour and turned down requests to be interviewed for the report. Geekie talked to 23 witnesses who claim that they were targeted by Heath, saying they painted a picture of an "audacious, manipulative risk-taker". One witness said staff and players "must have known or been suspicious of what he was doing... but turned a blind eye to it." One former player described how Heath would come into the urinals and watch, while another said he peered over the shower cubicle while he was inside. Heath would lavish praise on his "favourites", inviting them around to his house to watch football matches, offering out money and sweets and befriending their parents. Many said they were fearful of telling the authorities and getting Heath into trouble, while others "wanted to impress him" to ensure they kept being picked. One former player said the abuse had had a "massive impact on me and my family". Veteran manager Dario Gradi, who worked at Chelsea at the time, also came in for criticism, with the report finding he failed to report Heath despite receiving a complaint that he had indecently assaulted a boy in the showers. Ex-Chelsea football star Alan Hudson said it was "common knowledge" that Heath was a paedophile. "It was common knowledge that Eddie Heath was a 'nonce' (slang for paedophile)," Hudson wrote on Facebook when the allegations first surfaced. Players from other London clubs he worked for, Leyton Orient and Charlton, also came forward about his predatory behaviour.

Chelsea staff 'turned blind eye' to sexual abuse

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/francis-pope-discusses-ethics-of-artificial-intelligence-with-microsoft-chief-brad-smith-197242">The Vatican</a> on Monday reaffirmed Catholic teaching that priests cannot reveal what they learn in confession, in an apparent response to moves in Australia and elsewhere to force them to do so in cases of sexual abuse.

A document from the Vatican's Apostolic Penitentiary, which deals with issues of the sacrament of confession, said no government or law could force clergy to violate the seal "because this duty comes directly from God."

The document, which did not mention any countries or the sexual abuse crisis, complained of a "worrying negative prejudice against the Catholic Church".

Most countries' legal systems respect the religious right of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catholic-priests-burn-harry-potter-books-in-poland-207284">Catholic priest</a> not to reveal what he has learned in confession, similar to attorney-client privilege.

But the sexual abuse crisis that has embroiled the Catholic Church around the world has seen this right challenged more frequently.

In Australia, an inquiry into child abuse recommended that the country introduce a law forcing religious leaders to report child abuse, including priests told of it during confession.

So far, two of Australia's eight states have introduced laws making it a crime for priests to withhold information about abuse heard in confession. Others are still considering their response.

In May, the California state Senate passed a bill to require the seal of confession to be broken if priests learn of or suspect sexual abuse while hearing the confession of a fellow priest or a colleague such as a Church worker.

Church leaders in both the United States and Australia have opposed such laws and the document backed them up unequivocally.

"Any political action or legislative initiative aimed at breaking the inviolability of the sacramental seal would constitute an unacceptable offence against the (freedom of the Church)," the document said.

"(The Church) does not receive its legitimacy from individual States, but from God; it (breaking the seal) would also constitute a violation of religious freedom, legally fundamental to all other freedoms, including the freedom of conscience of individual citizens, both penitents and confessors," it said.

The document said a priest could not demand that a penitent turn himself or herself into authorities as a condition for receiving absolution from their sins.

The penitent also cannot free a priest from his obligation to respect the seal of confession, it said.

The Vatican on Monday reaffirmed Catholic teaching that priests cannot reveal what they learn in confession, in an apparent response to moves in Australia and elsewhere to force them to do so in cases of sexual abuse.

The Vatican on Monday reaffirmed Catholic teaching that priests cannot reveal what they learn in confession, in an apparent response to moves in Australia and elsewhere to force them to do so in cases of sexual abuse. A document from the Vatican's Apostolic Penitentiary, which deals with issues of the sacrament of confession, said no government or law could force clergy to violate the seal "because this duty comes directly from God." The document, which did not mention any countries or the sexual abuse crisis, complained of a "worrying negative prejudice against the Catholic Church". Most countries' legal systems respect the religious right of a Catholic priest not to reveal what he has learned in confession, similar to attorney-client privilege. But the sexual abuse crisis that has embroiled the Catholic Church around the world has seen this right challenged more frequently. In Australia, an inquiry into child abuse recommended that the country introduce a law forcing religious leaders to report child abuse, including priests told of it during confession. So far, two of Australia's eight states have introduced laws making it a crime for priests to withhold information about abuse heard in confession. Others are still considering their response. In May, the California state Senate passed a bill to require the seal of confession to be broken if priests learn of or suspect sexual abuse while hearing the confession of a fellow priest or a colleague such as a Church worker. Church leaders in both the United States and Australia have opposed such laws and the document backed them up unequivocally. "Any political action or legislative initiative aimed at breaking the inviolability of the sacramental seal would constitute an unacceptable offence against the (freedom of the Church)," the document said. "(The Church) does not receive its legitimacy from individual States, but from God; it (breaking the seal) would also constitute a violation of religious freedom, legally fundamental to all other freedoms, including the freedom of conscience of individual citizens, both penitents and confessors," it said. The document said a priest could not demand that a penitent turn himself or herself into authorities as a condition for receiving absolution from their sins. The penitent also cannot free a priest from his obligation to respect the seal of confession, it said.

Vatican says laws cannot force priests to break seal of confession

Michael Jackson fans around the world are gearing up to mark the tenth anniversary of the death of the King of Pop. But almost 10 years after his sudden death, Jackson's legacy has been under fresh scrutiny since the release of a recent documentary about alleged child sex abuse that has been met with outrage by the singer's family and fans. Jackson, a child star turned King of Pop, set the world alight with his infectious songs and music videos. But his musical genius was overshadowed at times by a bizarre lifestyle and sex scandals. Jackson, who died on June 25, 2009, was acquitted at a 2005 trial in California on charges of molesting a 13- year-old boy at his Neverland ranch in California. In 1994, he settled a sexual abuse lawsuit concerning another 13-year-old boy.

A look back on reactions to Michael Jackson's death 10 years ago

The former president of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned from football for life after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of abusing his position and sexually abusing female players, the global soccer body said on Saturday.

Keramuddin Keram, also a former FIFA Standing Committee member, was accused by at least five Afghan female football players of repeated sexual abuse between 2013-18, FIFA said in a statement.

He was also fined 1,000,000 Swiss francs ($1.01 million).

The AFF could not immediately be reached for comment. It has previously rejected the allegations as "groundless".

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani ordered an investigation after Britain’s Guardian newspaper reported in November that senior figures linked to the Afghan women’s team had alleged that some players had been molested by officials from the federation.

According to the Guardian, the alleged abuse took place inside the federation’s headquarters in Afghanistan as well as at a training camp in Jordan last February.

FIFA, which began its investigation in December when it suspended Keram, said he had breached ethics code rules on the protection of physical and mental integrity and abuse of position.

The ban applies to any kind of football-related activity.

The national women's team was formed in 2010. Some conservative-minded Afghans oppose women playing sports.

The allegations left the women's team in tatters and prompted a loss of sponsorship.

In March, an Afghan federation official said friendly matches scheduled for outside Afghanistan had been cancelled because so many players had stopped training since the allegations emerged.

Many parents, alarmed by public treatment of female players, urged their daughters to give up soccer.

Afghanistan is ranked as one of the most dangerous countries for women and allegations of sexual contact outside marriage can have deadly consequences.

Victims of sexual harassment are often extremely reluctant to come forward for fear that they will be accused of adultery.

Dubai-based Alokozay Group, a company with a ubiquitous presence in Kabul selling soft drinks, tissues and tea, pulled its $850,000 annual contribution to the federation in February, following Danish sports brand Hummel, which cancelled its sponsorship in late November.

Alokozay blamed an administrative vacuum resulting from the allegations and Hummel cut ties with the AFF, citing its “unacceptable behaviour”.

The former president of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned from football for life after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of abusing his position and sexually abusing female players, the global soccer body said on Saturday.

The former president of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned from football for life after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of abusing his position and sexually abusing female players, the global soccer body said on Saturday. Keramuddin Keram, also a former FIFA Standing Committee member, was accused by at least five Afghan female football players of repeated sexual abuse between 2013-18, FIFA said in a statement. He was also fined 1,000,000 Swiss francs ($1.01 million). The AFF could not immediately be reached for comment. It has previously rejected the allegations as "groundless". Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani ordered an investigation after Britain’s Guardian newspaper reported in November that senior figures linked to the Afghan women’s team had alleged that some players had been molested by officials from the federation. According to the Guardian, the alleged abuse took place inside the federation’s headquarters in Afghanistan as well as at a training camp in Jordan last February. FIFA, which began its investigation in December when it suspended Keram, said he had breached ethics code rules on the protection of physical and mental integrity and abuse of position. The ban applies to any kind of football-related activity. The national women's team was formed in 2010. Some conservative-minded Afghans oppose women playing sports. The allegations left the women's team in tatters and prompted a loss of sponsorship. In March, an Afghan federation official said friendly matches scheduled for outside Afghanistan had been cancelled because so many players had stopped training since the allegations emerged. Many parents, alarmed by public treatment of female players, urged their daughters to give up soccer. Afghanistan is ranked as one of the most dangerous countries for women and allegations of sexual contact outside marriage can have deadly consequences. Victims of sexual harassment are often extremely reluctant to come forward for fear that they will be accused of adultery. Dubai-based Alokozay Group, a company with a ubiquitous presence in Kabul selling soft drinks, tissues and tea, pulled its $850,000 annual contribution to the federation in February, following Danish sports brand Hummel, which cancelled its sponsorship in late November. Alokozay blamed an administrative vacuum resulting from the allegations and Hummel cut ties with the AFF, citing its “unacceptable behaviour”.

Former Afghanistan Football Federation president banned for life over sexual assault

Southeast Asia is in the grip of a fresh surge of paedophile activity with predators orchestrating and watching abuse on live-streaming sites and via webcams and paying for it with near-untraceable cryptocurrency, victims and children's charities warn.&nbsp;

With widespread poverty, lax laws, and creaking judicial systems, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and the Philippines have long been seen as soft spots by foreign and local paedophiles seeking out underage sex in person.&nbsp;

Tougher policing and greater awareness have deterred some offenders, but technology has shifted the patterns of abuse in a region with growing access to broadband internet and encrypted technology.

Paedophiles can now use an array of mobile and online tools -- including social networks, video-sharing sites, and the dark web -- to direct and watch child rape and sexual abuse with anonymity, experts warn. &nbsp;

"Predators watch the rapes on large platforms that are not likely to close," said François Xavier Souchet, of Thai-based NGO Terre des Hommes.

"It's live, nothing is recorded... everything is encrypted. They pay more and more in Bitcoins, encrypted money makes their transactions as secure as possible," he added.

This week online giants including Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Facebook are giving evidence to the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse (IICSA), which is being held in London and will look at how to prevent online sex crimes as part of its remit.&nbsp;

'I want to die'

Demand for child sexual abuse via webcam is an increasing cause of human trafficking, according to a UN report, with suggestions Thailand has become a hub in the trade, as well as the Philippines.&nbsp;

Cassie, a Filipina victim, said she was just 12 when she was forced to commit sexual acts -- both with an adult man and alone -- in front of a webcam.

She moved to Manila to work as a maid but was exploited by her mother's employer. The torment went on for five years.&nbsp;

She said "I felt trapped, betrayed and alone. I was thinking, 'I want to die, I want to die because of this pain, but I can't'."

Her abuser received a two year jail term in 2017.

Last month, advocacy and legal aid group International Justice Mission (IJM) warned Philippine children were at risk of being forced into live streamed sex abuse, where paedophiles pay to direct so-called "shows" online.&nbsp;

"Easy access to the web and money transfer services make the country a global hotspot for this problem," said IJM, noting that it is often parents or family members that organise or even commit the abuse.&nbsp;

Terre des Hommes drew attention to the problem using a computer-generated girl nicknamed "Sweetie" that hung out in chatrooms and was approached by about 20,000 people -- mostly men -- in a matter of weeks.&nbsp;

Last year a report by the Internet Watch Foundation found online child abuse imagery had increased by a third in 2017.&nbsp;

Death penalty

In March, a teacher was arrested and charged in his native France with rape, abuse of minors and possession of child pornography.

The 51-year-old, who worked in schools in Asia, is alleged to have befriended kids in a working-class Bangkok neighbourhood before building a rapport on social networks, police sources told AFP.

The same month, prosecutors charged another Frenchman with ordering videos of rape and sexual assaults of Filipino children.

The suspect, a 55-year-old former police officer, was arrested after a seizure of computers and live-streaming equipment in the Philippines.

In late April, former British Army officer Andrew Whiddett, 70, was found guilty by a London court of spending thousands of pounds paying for live-streamed sexual abuse of children from the Philippines.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) estimates 80,000 people in the UK present some kind of sexual threat to children online.

The cyber-abuse phenomenon is reaching "Cambodia and Vietnam", warned Damian Kean, of the Thai-based NGO ECPAT, which specialises in combating the sexual exploitation of children.

In hyperconnected Vietnam, foreign paedophiles are increasingly targeting young victims online, often on social media.&nbsp;

The communist state last year instated harsher penalties to combat the crime -- anyone guilty of molesting a child under 16 faces 12 years in prison, while child rape comes with a maximum sentence of death.

But catching a paedophile requires help from the communities within which they operate - communities which are often marginalised, poor and mistrustful.

Souchet of Terre des Hommes explained: "Particularly ethnic minority communities across the region do not trust local authorities."

Southeast Asia is in the grip of a fresh surge of paedophile activity with predators orchestrating and watching abuse on live-streaming sites and via webcams and paying for it with near-untraceable cryptocurrency, victims and children's charities warn.

Southeast Asia is in the grip of a fresh surge of paedophile activity with predators orchestrating and watching abuse on live-streaming sites and via webcams and paying for it with near-untraceable cryptocurrency, victims and children's charities warn. With widespread poverty, lax laws, and creaking judicial systems, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and the Philippines have long been seen as soft spots by foreign and local paedophiles seeking out underage sex in person. Tougher policing and greater awareness have deterred some offenders, but technology has shifted the patterns of abuse in a region with growing access to broadband internet and encrypted technology. Paedophiles can now use an array of mobile and online tools -- including social networks, video-sharing sites, and the dark web -- to direct and watch child rape and sexual abuse with anonymity, experts warn. "Predators watch the rapes on large platforms that are not likely to close," said François Xavier Souchet, of Thai-based NGO Terre des Hommes. "It's live, nothing is recorded... everything is encrypted. They pay more and more in Bitcoins, encrypted money makes their transactions as secure as possible," he added. This week online giants including Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Facebook are giving evidence to the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse (IICSA), which is being held in London and will look at how to prevent online sex crimes as part of its remit. 'I want to die' Demand for child sexual abuse via webcam is an increasing cause of human trafficking, according to a UN report, with suggestions Thailand has become a hub in the trade, as well as the Philippines. Cassie, a Filipina victim, said she was just 12 when she was forced to commit sexual acts -- both with an adult man and alone -- in front of a webcam. She moved to Manila to work as a maid but was exploited by her mother's employer. The torment went on for five years. She said "I felt trapped, betrayed and alone. I was thinking, 'I want to die, I want to die because of this pain, but I can't'." Her abuser received a two year jail term in 2017. Last month, advocacy and legal aid group International Justice Mission (IJM) warned Philippine children were at risk of being forced into live streamed sex abuse, where paedophiles pay to direct so-called "shows" online. "Easy access to the web and money transfer services make the country a global hotspot for this problem," said IJM, noting that it is often parents or family members that organise or even commit the abuse. Terre des Hommes drew attention to the problem using a computer-generated girl nicknamed "Sweetie" that hung out in chatrooms and was approached by about 20,000 people -- mostly men -- in a matter of weeks. Last year a report by the Internet Watch Foundation found online child abuse imagery had increased by a third in 2017. Death penalty In March, a teacher was arrested and charged in his native France with rape, abuse of minors and possession of child pornography. The 51-year-old, who worked in schools in Asia, is alleged to have befriended kids in a working-class Bangkok neighbourhood before building a rapport on social networks, police sources told AFP. The same month, prosecutors charged another Frenchman with ordering videos of rape and sexual assaults of Filipino children. The suspect, a 55-year-old former police officer, was arrested after a seizure of computers and live-streaming equipment in the Philippines. In late April, former British Army officer Andrew Whiddett, 70, was found guilty by a London court of spending thousands of pounds paying for live-streamed sexual abuse of children from the Philippines. The National Crime Agency (NCA) estimates 80,000 people in the UK present some kind of sexual threat to children online. The cyber-abuse phenomenon is reaching "Cambodia and Vietnam", warned Damian Kean, of the Thai-based NGO ECPAT, which specialises in combating the sexual exploitation of children. In hyperconnected Vietnam, foreign paedophiles are increasingly targeting young victims online, often on social media. The communist state last year instated harsher penalties to combat the crime -- anyone guilty of molesting a child under 16 faces 12 years in prison, while child rape comes with a maximum sentence of death. But catching a paedophile requires help from the communities within which they operate - communities which are often marginalised, poor and mistrustful. Souchet of Terre des Hommes explained: "Particularly ethnic minority communities across the region do not trust local authorities."

Keyboard predators: Southeast Asia's kids targeted by online paedophiles

Former Pope Benedict has blamed the Catholic Church's sexual abuse scandal on the effects of the sexual revolution of the 1960s, homosexual cliques in seminaries and what he called a general collapse in morality.

Critics accused Benedict, who before becoming pope in 2005 was for 23 years in charge of the Vatican doctrinal office that has been widely criticised for its handling of abuse cases, of trying to shift blame away from the Church.

But in a rare essay, he also said the Church's legal system had at times been overly protective of accused clerics, citing what he called judicial guarantees that were "extended to such an extent that convictions were hardly possible".

The 91-year-old, who in 2013 became the first pope in six centuries to resign, argued that the sexual revolution had led some to believe paedophilia and pornography were acceptable. He also said an openly gay culture in some Catholic seminaries meant they had failed to train priests properly.

"It could be said that in the 20 years from 1960 to 1980, the previously normative standards regarding sexuality collapsed entirely, and a new normalcy arose that has by now been the subject of laborious attempts at disruption," Benedict wrote.

Benedict was head of the doctrinal office when the first wave of abuse cases were exposed in Boston in 2002. Later, as pope, he took action against some paedophiles that had been blocked during the reign of his predecessor, John Paul.

Abuse scandals in Ireland, Chile, Australia, France, the United States, Poland, Germany and elsewhere have forced the Church to pay out billions of dollars in damages to victims and close parishes. Many cases date back decades before the 1960s.

Revelations that predatory priests were often moved from parish to parish rather than expelled or criminally prosecuted as bishops covered up the abuse have shaken the church globally and undermined its authority.

"STUNNING"

Benedict offered his evaluations in a long essay in Klerusblatt, a monthly Church magazine in Bavaria, his native region of Germany. A Vatican official confirmed it was authentic.

The impetus for the essay, titled "The Church and the Scandal of Sexual Abuse", was a summit of senior bishops that Francis, his successor as pope, held in February to discuss the crisis, he said.

"Among the freedoms that the Revolution of 1968 sought to fight for was this all-out sexual freedom, one which no longer conceded any norms," Benedict wrote, according to an English translation published by several Catholic websites.

He said the spread of explicit sex education for young schoolchildren and nudity in advertising had contributed to a loosening of moral bearings and an "absence of God".

Some theologians took to Twitter to criticise Benedict.

"This is an embarrassing letter," said Brian Flanagan, professor of theology at Marymount University in Virginia.

"The idea that ecclesial abuse of children was a result of the 1960s, a supposed collapse of moral theology, and "conciliarity" (the Church after the 1962-65 Second Vatican Council) is an embarrassingly wrong explanation for the systemic abuse of children and its cover up."

Julie Rubio, a professor at Santa Clara University's school of theology, called Benedict's reasoning "deeply flawed", adding: "The willingness to blame a permissive culture and progressive theology for a problem that is internal and structural is stunning."

Benedict wrote that after the Second Vatican Council there was a "far reaching breakdown" of the traditional methods of priestly formation that coincided with a dissolution of the Christian concept of morality.

"In various seminaries homosexual cliques were established, which acted more or less openly and significantly changed the climate in the seminaries," he writes, adding that the situation has now improved.

Late last year, Australian Cardinal George Pell became the most senior Catholic to be convicted for child sex offences. His role as a former top adviser to Pope Francis brought the scandal to the heart of the papal administration.

Former Pope Benedict has blamed the Catholic Church's sexual abuse scandal on the effects of the sexual revolution of the 1960s, homosexual cliques in seminaries and what he called a general collapse in morality.

Former Pope Benedict has blamed the Catholic Church's sexual abuse scandal on the effects of the sexual revolution of the 1960s, homosexual cliques in seminaries and what he called a general collapse in morality. Critics accused Benedict, who before becoming pope in 2005 was for 23 years in charge of the Vatican doctrinal office that has been widely criticised for its handling of abuse cases, of trying to shift blame away from the Church. But in a rare essay, he also said the Church's legal system had at times been overly protective of accused clerics, citing what he called judicial guarantees that were "extended to such an extent that convictions were hardly possible". The 91-year-old, who in 2013 became the first pope in six centuries to resign, argued that the sexual revolution had led some to believe paedophilia and pornography were acceptable. He also said an openly gay culture in some Catholic seminaries meant they had failed to train priests properly. "It could be said that in the 20 years from 1960 to 1980, the previously normative standards regarding sexuality collapsed entirely, and a new normalcy arose that has by now been the subject of laborious attempts at disruption," Benedict wrote. Benedict was head of the doctrinal office when the first wave of abuse cases were exposed in Boston in 2002. Later, as pope, he took action against some paedophiles that had been blocked during the reign of his predecessor, John Paul. Abuse scandals in Ireland, Chile, Australia, France, the United States, Poland, Germany and elsewhere have forced the Church to pay out billions of dollars in damages to victims and close parishes. Many cases date back decades before the 1960s. Revelations that predatory priests were often moved from parish to parish rather than expelled or criminally prosecuted as bishops covered up the abuse have shaken the church globally and undermined its authority. "STUNNING" Benedict offered his evaluations in a long essay in Klerusblatt, a monthly Church magazine in Bavaria, his native region of Germany. A Vatican official confirmed it was authentic. The impetus for the essay, titled "The Church and the Scandal of Sexual Abuse", was a summit of senior bishops that Francis, his successor as pope, held in February to discuss the crisis, he said. "Among the freedoms that the Revolution of 1968 sought to fight for was this all-out sexual freedom, one which no longer conceded any norms," Benedict wrote, according to an English translation published by several Catholic websites. He said the spread of explicit sex education for young schoolchildren and nudity in advertising had contributed to a loosening of moral bearings and an "absence of God". Some theologians took to Twitter to criticise Benedict. "This is an embarrassing letter," said Brian Flanagan, professor of theology at Marymount University in Virginia. "The idea that ecclesial abuse of children was a result of the 1960s, a supposed collapse of moral theology, and "conciliarity" (the Church after the 1962-65 Second Vatican Council) is an embarrassingly wrong explanation for the systemic abuse of children and its cover up." Julie Rubio, a professor at Santa Clara University's school of theology, called Benedict's reasoning "deeply flawed", adding: "The willingness to blame a permissive culture and progressive theology for a problem that is internal and structural is stunning." Benedict wrote that after the Second Vatican Council there was a "far reaching breakdown" of the traditional methods of priestly formation that coincided with a dissolution of the Christian concept of morality. "In various seminaries homosexual cliques were established, which acted more or less openly and significantly changed the climate in the seminaries," he writes, adding that the situation has now improved. Late last year, Australian Cardinal George Pell became the most senior Catholic to be convicted for child sex offences. His role as a former top adviser to Pope Francis brought the scandal to the heart of the papal administration.

Sexual revolution of 1960s led to Church abuse crisis, ex-pope says

Controversy, lies and videotape: K-pop world rocked by scandals

Former Vatican treasurer Cardinal George Pell was sentenced to 6 years in jail on Wednesday by an Australian court for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/top-vatican-cleric-cardinal-pell-convicted-of-child-sex-crimes-199719">sexually abusing two choir boys in Melbourne</a> in the 1990s.

Pell, a former top adviser to Pope Francis, is the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-remorse-prosecutors-call-for-immediate-imprisonment-of-australian-cardinal-george-pell-199943">most senior Catholic worldwide to be convicted</a> for child sex offences.

County Court of Victoria Chief Judge Peter Kidd said there was a real possibility that at aged 77, Pell could spend the rest of his life in prison.

"In my view, your conduct was permeated by staggering arrogance," said Kidd in handing down the sentence after Pell was convicted of five counts of sexually abusing two children.

"Viewed overall, I consider your moral culpability across both episodes to be high."

Pell has maintained his innocence and has filed an appeal to be heard in June.

The offences against two 13-year-old boys took place after Sunday mass in late 1996 and early 1997 in a room and a corridor at St Patrick's Cathedral, in Melbourne, where Pell was archbishop.

Pell was found guilty on four charges of indecent acts and one of sexual penetration. He faced a maximum of 10 years in jail for each charge.

"In my view, the first episode in the priest's sacristy involved a brazen and forceful sexual attack on the two victims," Kidd told a packed court.

"The acts were sexually graphic. Both victims were visibly and audibly distressed during this offending," he said, adding Pell's behaviour had a "nasty element" to it.

Kidd made it clear the sentence was based solely on the crimes Pell was convicted of by the jury, and that Pell was not to be made a scapegoat for the failings or perceived failings of the Catholic Church.

He set a non-parole period of three years and eight months. He also said Pell would be registered as a sex offender for life.

"I am conscious that the term of imprisonment...carries with it a real, as distinct from theoretical, possibility that you may not live to be released from prison," the judge said.

Pell's sentencing was shown live on television, reflecting the high level of interest in the case, although only the judge was shown and the broadcast was cut immediately after the sentence was delivered.

The senior Catholic was convicted in December, but the verdict was suppressed from being made public in Australia by a court order until February 26, when further child sex offence charges against Pell dating back to the 1970s were dropped.

Former Vatican treasurer Cardinal George Pell was sentenced to 6 years in jail on Wednesday by an Australian court for sexually abusing two choir boys in Melbourne in the 1990s.

Former Vatican treasurer Cardinal George Pell was sentenced to 6 years in jail on Wednesday by an Australian court for sexually abusing two choir boys in Melbourne in the 1990s. Pell, a former top adviser to Pope Francis, is the most senior Catholic worldwide to be convicted for child sex offences. County Court of Victoria Chief Judge Peter Kidd said there was a real possibility that at aged 77, Pell could spend the rest of his life in prison. "In my view, your conduct was permeated by staggering arrogance," said Kidd in handing down the sentence after Pell was convicted of five counts of sexually abusing two children. "Viewed overall, I consider your moral culpability across both episodes to be high." Pell has maintained his innocence and has filed an appeal to be heard in June. The offences against two 13-year-old boys took place after Sunday mass in late 1996 and early 1997 in a room and a corridor at St Patrick's Cathedral, in Melbourne, where Pell was archbishop. Pell was found guilty on four charges of indecent acts and one of sexual penetration. He faced a maximum of 10 years in jail for each charge. "In my view, the first episode in the priest's sacristy involved a brazen and forceful sexual attack on the two victims," Kidd told a packed court. "The acts were sexually graphic. Both victims were visibly and audibly distressed during this offending," he said, adding Pell's behaviour had a "nasty element" to it. Kidd made it clear the sentence was based solely on the crimes Pell was convicted of by the jury, and that Pell was not to be made a scapegoat for the failings or perceived failings of the Catholic Church. He set a non-parole period of three years and eight months. He also said Pell would be registered as a sex offender for life. "I am conscious that the term of imprisonment...carries with it a real, as distinct from theoretical, possibility that you may not live to be released from prison," the judge said. Pell's sentencing was shown live on television, reflecting the high level of interest in the case, although only the judge was shown and the broadcast was cut immediately after the sentence was delivered. The senior Catholic was convicted in December, but the verdict was suppressed from being made public in Australia by a court order until February 26, when further child sex offence charges against Pell dating back to the 1970s were dropped.

Former Vatican treasurer Pell jailed for six years for sexually abusing choir boys

French archbishop Philippe Barbarin Thursday announced he will resign following his conviction for failing to report the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-cardinal-found-guilty-of-covering-up-child-abuse-201784">sex abuse of minors</a> by one of his priests.

"I have decided to go to see the pope to hand him my resignation," Barbarin, 68, the archbishop of Lyon, told a news conference after he was handed a six-month suspended prison sentence earlier in the day by a court in Lyon.

A French court found Barbarin guilty of covering up sexual abuse committed by a paedophile priest in his Archdiocese.&nbsp;

The allegations of child abuse dating back to a period between 1970-90, although the court found Barbarin helped silence controversy in a period between 2014/15.&nbsp;

The sentencing came as a surprise as even the prosecution did not recommend punishment, citing a lack of evidence.&nbsp;

(With inputs from EFE)

French archbishop Philippe Barbarin Thursday announced he will resign following his conviction for failing to report the sex abuse of minors by one of his priests.

French archbishop Philippe Barbarin Thursday announced he will resign following his conviction for failing to report the sex abuse of minors by one of his priests. "I have decided to go to see the pope to hand him my resignation," Barbarin, 68, the archbishop of Lyon, told a news conference after he was handed a six-month suspended prison sentence earlier in the day by a court in Lyon. A French court found Barbarin guilty of covering up sexual abuse committed by a paedophile priest in his Archdiocese. The allegations of child abuse dating back to a period between 1970-90, although the court found Barbarin helped silence controversy in a period between 2014/15. The sentencing came as a surprise as even the prosecution did not recommend punishment, citing a lack of evidence. (With inputs from EFE)

French archbishop Barbarin says he will resign following conviction

Nebraska's Justice Department said Tuesday that it has subpoenaed records on sexual abuse of children from over 400 Catholic churches and institutions in the US state.

"The subpoenas request all records or information related to any child sexual assault or abuse that has occurred by those employed or associated with each church or institution, whether previously reported or not," spokeswoman Suzanne Gage said in a statement.

The Justice Department "believes that subpoenas are necessary in order to ensure all reports of impropriety have been submitted to the appropriate authorities," Gage said.

"It is our goal that all reports of abuse are subject to complete law enforcement review and investigation as warranted."

The move comes amid a series of Catholic Church child abuse scandals in the US and other countries in recent years that have been marked by widespread allegations of cover-ups.

In December, the Illinois attorney general said that almost 700 clergymen in the state have been accused of child sexual assault -- a far greater number than the Catholic Church had previously disclosed.

The same month, authorities of the Jesuit order overseeing at least 40 US states released the names of more than 240 members who have been credibly accused of abuse -- including dozens of priests with multiple allegations.

And in August, a devastating US report on child sex abuse claimed more than 300 "predator" priests abused more than 1,000 minors over seven decades in the state of Pennsylvania.

Nebraska's Justice Department said Tuesday that it has subpoenaed records on sexual abuse of children from over 400 Catholic churches and institutions in the US state.

Nebraska's Justice Department said Tuesday that it has subpoenaed records on sexual abuse of children from over 400 Catholic churches and institutions in the US state. "The subpoenas request all records or information related to any child sexual assault or abuse that has occurred by those employed or associated with each church or institution, whether previously reported or not," spokeswoman Suzanne Gage said in a statement. The Justice Department "believes that subpoenas are necessary in order to ensure all reports of impropriety have been submitted to the appropriate authorities," Gage said. "It is our goal that all reports of abuse are subject to complete law enforcement review and investigation as warranted." The move comes amid a series of Catholic Church child abuse scandals in the US and other countries in recent years that have been marked by widespread allegations of cover-ups. In December, the Illinois attorney general said that almost 700 clergymen in the state have been accused of child sexual assault -- a far greater number than the Catholic Church had previously disclosed. The same month, authorities of the Jesuit order overseeing at least 40 US states released the names of more than 240 members who have been credibly accused of abuse -- including dozens of priests with multiple allegations. And in August, a devastating US report on child sex abuse claimed more than 300 "predator" priests abused more than 1,000 minors over seven decades in the state of Pennsylvania.

US state seeks abuse records from over 400 Catholic churches, institutions

By: Anshu Dubey

“When you feel caught in the web of childhood abuse, find words to describe it. Write them. Say them. Express them. In safe places, with safe people.” 
&nbsp; 
Words of Jeanne McElvaney, but widely believed by several others who faced a similar fate and survived it. Marie Collins, a brave heart who led a traumatic childhood due to sexual abuse at the tender age of 13 years, fought with it all her life and obtained victory after her abuser, a priest, was punished by law.

As the entire world looked at the Vatican City where Pope Francis hosted a 4-day meeting on Clerical sex abuse which concluded on Feb 24, WION spoke exclusively with the iron-willed woman Marie Collins on the highly complicated matter. 
&nbsp; 
Read on for the excerpts from Collins interview who also has been a former member of Francis' papal commission on clergy sexual abuse and a survivor herself.

How do you estimate the current Global abuse summit as an initiative, as a forum for redressal? Does it infuse hope and Is the summit in the right direction?

The presentations at the summit have been dealing clearly with the issue and indicate that strong measures need to be taken by the church in regard to safeguarding, transparency and accountability. However, we need to see these measures are actually put in place before we can say the summit is a success. 
&nbsp; 
How complex, longstanding and big is the issue of church sexual abuse?

The first mention of child abuse by clergy and religious in the church can be found in centuries-old documents. &nbsp;In modern times it began to become a public issue in the mid-1980s in Australia, Ireland and the USA. It grew in public awareness in the 1990’s here in Ireland it became a very high profile issue with the first call for a state enquiry coming in 2001.

Similarly, it became a public issue in Australia in the 1990s. &nbsp;In 2002 the Spotlight (film) exposure of the huge cover-up of abuse in Boston in the USA really brought it to the fore. &nbsp;

All the enquiries and subsequent reports that have occurred so far have concluded that child abuse has been prevalent in all areas of the Catholic Church but has been covered up and perpetrator protected in order to “protect the Church from scandal”. &nbsp;

The most recent report with statistics came from the German bishops in September 2018 it was found cases of 3,677 children were abused by about 1,670 clerics over nearly 70 years up to 2014. 
&nbsp; 
You were a victim of sexual abuse at a very young age. How difficult was it to deal with it as a child and alongside informing about it to your family?

I was sexually abused by a Catholic priest while a patient in a children's’ hospital. &nbsp;It completely changed my life. I had been a confident child but lost all confidence in myself, felt worthless and turned in on myself pushing everyone away. 
&nbsp; 
You went into paralysis and had a tough time in your hospital days. How normal (if at all) did your life become post returning from the hospital and surviving the trauma you went through?

I suffered psychological problems from the time of my abuse for many, many years – severe anxiety, panic attacks, deep depressions and an inability to trust which destroyed relationships. &nbsp;I did not tell anyone for 25 years. &nbsp; &nbsp;

My life did not return to what would be seen as normal until after my abuser was jailed and I had a couple of years of therapy. &nbsp;By then I was 50 years of age but life then became good and I could enjoy everyday thing in the same way as others. 
&nbsp; 
Did you get any support from the papal committee after you came out publicly about your ordeal?

The Commission thanked me publicly for the work I had done while a member. &nbsp;I received supportive messages from former colleagues on the Commission. 
&nbsp; 
Dealing with such crime in places of religion and faith has always been a challenge for the lawkeepers, Do you think, it needs a more specialised or in fact a more stringent provision of punishment?

Those who commit crimes against children should be treated in the same way by the law whether they are clerics or lay people. &nbsp;Being a priest is not an excuse it is worse even as they are in a position of trust. &nbsp;The sexual abuse of a child is a dreadful crime as it can destroy many years of their adult life as it did mine. 
&nbsp; 
Why didn’t you ever try to take the help of the legal system when you eventually found the courage to speak about your situation?

I did cooperate with the police when I reported my abuse. &nbsp;In 1995 I reported it to the church and to the hospital where it happened. &nbsp;The church did nothing but the hospital reported it to the police and I made statements to them and helped in every way I could in their investigations. &nbsp;

My abuser Fr. Paul McGennis was found guilty of my abuse and jailed in 1997.

He was jailed again some years later for the abuse of other girls subsequent to mine. 
&nbsp; 
What acted as a catalyst to mark your exit from the Papal Committee?

The Vatican refused to implement the Commission recommendations for better safeguarding policy and for accountability of bishops but the final straw for me was when they refused a recommendation from the Commission that they always acknowledge correspondence from survivors. &nbsp;

They would not do this. &nbsp;I could not stay working with the church while they were telling the world they cared for the healing of survivors but were refusing to reply to letters from those survivors, causing them to hurt and feelings of rejection. 
&nbsp; 
What kind of response did you get when you started your organisation Marie Collins Foundation?

The Marie Collins Foundation is completely separate from my work on the issue of children abused within the Catholic Church. &nbsp;It is an organisation working to support victims of grooming, abuse or exploitation through the internet or mobile technology. &nbsp;It works also to improve the safety of children on the internet. &nbsp;

My reason for working in this area is the fact abusive images were taken of me during my abuse and I know what a sickening extra burden this puts on a victim. 
&nbsp; 
Considering that the issue of sexual abuse is predominant across the world, what do you think is the possible solution to fight such a pervert mentality?

Abuse of children is a blight on society in all areas of the world. &nbsp;Just dealing with it through the criminal law is not enough there must be in depth work done on prevention and reaching and identifying potential perpetrators before they have abused. 
&nbsp; 
You have travelled a very long way from being a minor sexual abuse survivor to a face of rebellion against the perverted mindset masked by an allegedly sacred veil and now we see a solution- provider. What would be your message for women of all ages across the globe?

My one message to any woman or man who has been exploited sexually in any way is not to stay silent, speak out, seek help and support others. &nbsp;Abuse thrives on secrecy. &nbsp;Abusers depend on it to facilitate further abuse. &nbsp;Those victims who keep their experience secret can suffer detrimental effects on their mental health and accessing therapy can make a great difference in their lives.

By: Anshu Dubey “When you feel caught in the web of childhood abuse, find words to describe it. Write them. Say them. Express them. In safe places, with safe people.

By: Anshu Dubey “When you feel caught in the web of childhood abuse, find words to describe it. Write them. Say them. Express them. In safe places, with safe people.” Words of Jeanne McElvaney, but widely believed by several others who faced a similar fate and survived it. Marie Collins, a brave heart who led a traumatic childhood due to sexual abuse at the tender age of 13 years, fought with it all her life and obtained victory after her abuser, a priest, was punished by law. As the entire world looked at the Vatican City where Pope Francis hosted a 4-day meeting on Clerical sex abuse which concluded on Feb 24, WION spoke exclusively with the iron-willed woman Marie Collins on the highly complicated matter. Read on for the excerpts from Collins interview who also has been a former member of Francis' papal commission on clergy sexual abuse and a survivor herself. How do you estimate the current Global abuse summit as an initiative, as a forum for redressal? Does it infuse hope and Is the summit in the right direction? The presentations at the summit have been dealing clearly with the issue and indicate that strong measures need to be taken by the church in regard to safeguarding, transparency and accountability. However, we need to see these measures are actually put in place before we can say the summit is a success. How complex, longstanding and big is the issue of church sexual abuse? The first mention of child abuse by clergy and religious in the church can be found in centuries-old documents. In modern times it began to become a public issue in the mid-1980s in Australia, Ireland and the USA. It grew in public awareness in the 1990’s here in Ireland it became a very high profile issue with the first call for a state enquiry coming in 2001. Similarly, it became a public issue in Australia in the 1990s. In 2002 the Spotlight (film) exposure of the huge cover-up of abuse in Boston in the USA really brought it to the fore. All the enquiries and subsequent reports that have occurred so far have concluded that child abuse has been prevalent in all areas of the Catholic Church but has been covered up and perpetrator protected in order to “protect the Church from scandal”. The most recent report with statistics came from the German bishops in September 2018 it was found cases of 3,677 children were abused by about 1,670 clerics over nearly 70 years up to 2014. You were a victim of sexual abuse at a very young age. How difficult was it to deal with it as a child and alongside informing about it to your family? I was sexually abused by a Catholic priest while a patient in a children's’ hospital. It completely changed my life. I had been a confident child but lost all confidence in myself, felt worthless and turned in on myself pushing everyone away. You went into paralysis and had a tough time in your hospital days. How normal (if at all) did your life become post returning from the hospital and surviving the trauma you went through? I suffered psychological problems from the time of my abuse for many, many years – severe anxiety, panic attacks, deep depressions and an inability to trust which destroyed relationships. I did not tell anyone for 25 years. My life did not return to what would be seen as normal until after my abuser was jailed and I had a couple of years of therapy. By then I was 50 years of age but life then became good and I could enjoy everyday thing in the same way as others. Did you get any support from the papal committee after you came out publicly about your ordeal? The Commission thanked me publicly for the work I had done while a member. I received supportive messages from former colleagues on the Commission. Dealing with such crime in places of religion and faith has always been a challenge for the lawkeepers, Do you think, it needs a more specialised or in fact a more stringent provision of punishment? Those who commit crimes against children should be treated in the same way by the law whether they are clerics or lay people. Being a priest is not an excuse it is worse even as they are in a position of trust. The sexual abuse of a child is a dreadful crime as it can destroy many years of their adult life as it did mine. Why didn’t you ever try to take the help of the legal system when you eventually found the courage to speak about your situation? I did cooperate with the police when I reported my abuse. In 1995 I reported it to the church and to the hospital where it happened. The church did nothing but the hospital reported it to the police and I made statements to them and helped in every way I could in their investigations. My abuser Fr. Paul McGennis was found guilty of my abuse and jailed in 1997. He was jailed again some years later for the abuse of other girls subsequent to mine. What acted as a catalyst to mark your exit from the Papal Committee? The Vatican refused to implement the Commission recommendations for better safeguarding policy and for accountability of bishops but the final straw for me was when they refused a recommendation from the Commission that they always acknowledge correspondence from survivors. They would not do this. I could not stay working with the church while they were telling the world they cared for the healing of survivors but were refusing to reply to letters from those survivors, causing them to hurt and feelings of rejection. What kind of response did you get when you started your organisation Marie Collins Foundation? The Marie Collins Foundation is completely separate from my work on the issue of children abused within the Catholic Church. It is an organisation working to support victims of grooming, abuse or exploitation through the internet or mobile technology. It works also to improve the safety of children on the internet. My reason for working in this area is the fact abusive images were taken of me during my abuse and I know what a sickening extra burden this puts on a victim. Considering that the issue of sexual abuse is predominant across the world, what do you think is the possible solution to fight such a pervert mentality? Abuse of children is a blight on society in all areas of the world. Just dealing with it through the criminal law is not enough there must be in depth work done on prevention and reaching and identifying potential perpetrators before they have abused. You have travelled a very long way from being a minor sexual abuse survivor to a face of rebellion against the perverted mindset masked by an allegedly sacred veil and now we see a solution- provider. What would be your message for women of all ages across the globe? My one message to any woman or man who has been exploited sexually in any way is not to stay silent, speak out, seek help and support others. Abuse thrives on secrecy. Abusers depend on it to facilitate further abuse. Those victims who keep their experience secret can suffer detrimental effects on their mental health and accessing therapy can make a great difference in their lives.

'Being a priest is not an excuse', Irish abuse survivor rests hope in the Vatican Summit

A top Catholic cardinal admitted Saturday that Church files on priests accused of sexually abusing children were destroyed or never even drawn up in a move which allowed paedophiles to prey on others.

German Cardinal Reinhard Marx was speaking on the third day of an unprecedented summit of the world's top bishops convened by Pope Francis in a bid to tackle the crisis over paedophilia within the clergy.

"Files that could have documented the terrible deeds and named those responsible were destroyed, or not even created," Marx told the landmark Vatican summit on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-church-hasnt-known-how-to-listen-193036">a problem that has dogged the Roman Catholic Church for decades</a>.

"Instead of the perpetrators, the victims were regulated and silence imposed on them," he said.&nbsp;

"The stipulated procedures and processes for the prosecution of offences were deliberately not complied with."

The ongoing scandals over sexual abuse have escalated, engulfing countries across the globe with the latest crises hitting Chile, Germany and the US. At one point, delegates heard the testimony of a woman who was repeatedly raped by a priest when she was just 11.

"Engraved in my eyes, ears, nose, body and soul, are all the times he immobilised me, the child, with superhuman strength," said the woman, who remained anonymous.

Back in September, Marx apologised personally to thousands of victims who had been abused by clergy within the German Church, saying the perpetrators must be brought to justice.

His admission about the documents on Saturday sparked an angry reaction from Peter Isely of the Ending Clerical Abuse (ECA) association, who denounced such destruction of paperwork as "illegal" and demanded an investigation.

"What he didn't tell us is... Who did it? Where did they do it? And what did they destroy?" he told AFP. Victims marched to the Vatican, holding signs accusing Francis of being deaf to their cries, and urging the expulsion from the Church of both the abusers and those who enabled them.

"I didn't remember my rape -- it was very, very violent -- until 50 years after it happened," Tim Lennon, from the survivors' network SNAP, told AFP.

Investigations have shown that in many cases, priests accused of assaulting minors were transferred to other parishes as bishops turned a blind eye to protect the Church's reputation.

"The rights of victims were effectively trampled underfoot, and left to the whims of individuals," Marx said. The cardinal said it was essential that victims felt they could "trust the system".

"There are no alternatives to traceability and transparency," he said, admitting efforts to cover-up scandals had badly undermined the Church's credibility.

Francis has told his bishops he wants "concrete measures" drawn up against child sex abuse. But survivors have lambasted the centuries-old institution for not releasing the names and case files of priests convicted of abuse or possessing child pornography.

The Vatican has in the past refused to hand over internal documents about child sexual abuse cases to civil authorities investigating paedophilia. On Friday, Archbishop Charles Scicluna, one of the organisers of the summit, said the call for statistics to be released was "legitimate".

Marx also called for a rethink of pontifical secrecy, echoing the appeal made Friday by Linda Ghisoni, a professor of canon law at the Pontifical Gregorian University, who told the meeting "the current legislation on pontifical secrecy" needed rewriting. Marx said transparency was needed in other areas of the Church, such as "the area of finances".

Scandals surrounding the Vatican bank have prompted a clean-up in recent years, with some 5,000 bank accounts being closed. But the decision to sack the bank's deputy director in 2017 without explanation prompted a flurry of rumours that he was dismissed because his investigations into possible illegal activity had hit too close to home.

The bank's reputation first came into question in 1982 after the body of senior banker Roberto Calvi was found hanging from Blackfriars Bridge in London. Calvi was often referred to as "God's Banker" because of his close ties to the Vatican.

No one has ever been convicted of his murder but prosecutors believe it was a mafia killing linked to money laundering via Banco Ambrosiano, the bank he chaired.&nbsp;

A top Catholic cardinal admitted Saturday that Church files on priests accused of sexually abusing children were destroyed or never even drawn up in a move which allowed paedophiles to prey on others.

A top Catholic cardinal admitted Saturday that Church files on priests accused of sexually abusing children were destroyed or never even drawn up in a move which allowed paedophiles to prey on others. German Cardinal Reinhard Marx was speaking on the third day of an unprecedented summit of the world's top bishops convened by Pope Francis in a bid to tackle the crisis over paedophilia within the clergy. "Files that could have documented the terrible deeds and named those responsible were destroyed, or not even created," Marx told the landmark Vatican summit on a problem that has dogged the Roman Catholic Church for decades. "Instead of the perpetrators, the victims were regulated and silence imposed on them," he said. "The stipulated procedures and processes for the prosecution of offences were deliberately not complied with." The ongoing scandals over sexual abuse have escalated, engulfing countries across the globe with the latest crises hitting Chile, Germany and the US. At one point, delegates heard the testimony of a woman who was repeatedly raped by a priest when she was just 11. "Engraved in my eyes, ears, nose, body and soul, are all the times he immobilised me, the child, with superhuman strength," said the woman, who remained anonymous. Back in September, Marx apologised personally to thousands of victims who had been abused by clergy within the German Church, saying the perpetrators must be brought to justice. His admission about the documents on Saturday sparked an angry reaction from Peter Isely of the Ending Clerical Abuse (ECA) association, who denounced such destruction of paperwork as "illegal" and demanded an investigation. "What he didn't tell us is... Who did it? Where did they do it? And what did they destroy?" he told AFP. Victims marched to the Vatican, holding signs accusing Francis of being deaf to their cries, and urging the expulsion from the Church of both the abusers and those who enabled them. "I didn't remember my rape -- it was very, very violent -- until 50 years after it happened," Tim Lennon, from the survivors' network SNAP, told AFP. Investigations have shown that in many cases, priests accused of assaulting minors were transferred to other parishes as bishops turned a blind eye to protect the Church's reputation. "The rights of victims were effectively trampled underfoot, and left to the whims of individuals," Marx said. The cardinal said it was essential that victims felt they could "trust the system". "There are no alternatives to traceability and transparency," he said, admitting efforts to cover-up scandals had badly undermined the Church's credibility. Francis has told his bishops he wants "concrete measures" drawn up against child sex abuse. But survivors have lambasted the centuries-old institution for not releasing the names and case files of priests convicted of abuse or possessing child pornography. The Vatican has in the past refused to hand over internal documents about child sexual abuse cases to civil authorities investigating paedophilia. On Friday, Archbishop Charles Scicluna, one of the organisers of the summit, said the call for statistics to be released was "legitimate". Marx also called for a rethink of pontifical secrecy, echoing the appeal made Friday by Linda Ghisoni, a professor of canon law at the Pontifical Gregorian University, who told the meeting "the current legislation on pontifical secrecy" needed rewriting. Marx said transparency was needed in other areas of the Church, such as "the area of finances". Scandals surrounding the Vatican bank have prompted a clean-up in recent years, with some 5,000 bank accounts being closed. But the decision to sack the bank's deputy director in 2017 without explanation prompted a flurry of rumours that he was dismissed because his investigations into possible illegal activity had hit too close to home. The bank's reputation first came into question in 1982 after the body of senior banker Roberto Calvi was found hanging from Blackfriars Bridge in London. Calvi was often referred to as "God's Banker" because of his close ties to the Vatican. No one has ever been convicted of his murder but prosecutors believe it was a mafia killing linked to money laundering via Banco Ambrosiano, the bank he chaired.

Top cardinal says Catholic church files on paedophile priests were 'destroyed'

The Roman Catholic Church must repair the "systematic failures" that enabled sexual abuse to take root around the world, and bishops should start policing each other's behaviour, leading cardinals said on Friday.

Cardinals Blase Cupich of Chicago and Oswald Gracias of Mumbai spoke on the second day of a conference of some 200 senior Church officials convened by Pope Francis to confront what he has called the scourge of sexual abuse by the clergy.

"This past year has taught us that the systematic failures in holding clerics of all rank responsible are due in large measure to flaws in the way we interact and communicate with each other," Cupich said.

Various aspects of the sexual abuse crisis made 2018 the worst year for the pope since his election in 2013.

In Chile, all of the country's 34 bishops offered their resignations over a nationwide scandal; Francis's trip to Ireland shone a new light on decades of abuse in the once staunchly Catholic nation; and a damning report by a grand jury in Pennsylvania revealed that priests had sexually abused about 1,000 people over seven decades in that US state alone.

Last week, Theodore McCarrick, once a powerful cardinal in the US Church, was dismissed from the priesthood after the Vatican found him guilty of sexual abuse of minors and adults over decades.

The Church had "to confront the past grave and callous errors of some bishops and religious superiors in addressing cases of clergy sexual abuse, and the discernment to understand how to establish just accountability for these massive failures," Cupich said.

Problematic behaviour

At the start of the conference on Thursday, five victims told painful stories of abuse and cover-up and the pope said they could expect concrete measures to come out of the meeting.

Victims groups have complained that while some priests who sexually abused children were eventually disciplined by the Church and sentenced by civil authorities, the bishops who either enabled the abuse or it covered up have not been punished.

In what appeared to be a reference to the McCarrick case, Cardinal Gracias said bishops should "fraternally correct" each other.

"Do we really engage in an open conversation and point out honestly to our brother bishops or priests when we notice problematic behaviour in them?" he said.

Before proof of McCarrick's child sex abuse decades ago was discovered last year, his sexual misconduct with adult men studying for the priesthood and his abuse of power over them was an open secret in the US Church.

Critics have asked how McCarrick could have risen to become archbishop of Washington, DC from 2001-2006 while many allegedly knew of his misconduct with adults.

Pope Francis ordered a "thorough study" last year of all documents concerning McCarrick. The four US dioceses where he served - New York, Metuchen, Newark, and Washington - have launched independent investigations.

The conference ends on Sunday when the pope will make a final speech. The Vatican says it will then formulate follow-up measures to make sure all bishop return home knowing how to put anti-abuse procedures into place.

The Roman Catholic Church must repair the "systematic failures" that enabled sexual abuse to take root around the world, and bishops should start policing each other's behaviour, leading cardinals said on Friday.

The Roman Catholic Church must repair the "systematic failures" that enabled sexual abuse to take root around the world, and bishops should start policing each other's behaviour, leading cardinals said on Friday. Cardinals Blase Cupich of Chicago and Oswald Gracias of Mumbai spoke on the second day of a conference of some 200 senior Church officials convened by Pope Francis to confront what he has called the scourge of sexual abuse by the clergy. "This past year has taught us that the systematic failures in holding clerics of all rank responsible are due in large measure to flaws in the way we interact and communicate with each other," Cupich said. Various aspects of the sexual abuse crisis made 2018 the worst year for the pope since his election in 2013. In Chile, all of the country's 34 bishops offered their resignations over a nationwide scandal; Francis's trip to Ireland shone a new light on decades of abuse in the once staunchly Catholic nation; and a damning report by a grand jury in Pennsylvania revealed that priests had sexually abused about 1,000 people over seven decades in that US state alone. Last week, Theodore McCarrick, once a powerful cardinal in the US Church, was dismissed from the priesthood after the Vatican found him guilty of sexual abuse of minors and adults over decades. The Church had "to confront the past grave and callous errors of some bishops and religious superiors in addressing cases of clergy sexual abuse, and the discernment to understand how to establish just accountability for these massive failures," Cupich said. Problematic behaviour At the start of the conference on Thursday, five victims told painful stories of abuse and cover-up and the pope said they could expect concrete measures to come out of the meeting. Victims groups have complained that while some priests who sexually abused children were eventually disciplined by the Church and sentenced by civil authorities, the bishops who either enabled the abuse or it covered up have not been punished. In what appeared to be a reference to the McCarrick case, Cardinal Gracias said bishops should "fraternally correct" each other. "Do we really engage in an open conversation and point out honestly to our brother bishops or priests when we notice problematic behaviour in them?" he said. Before proof of McCarrick's child sex abuse decades ago was discovered last year, his sexual misconduct with adult men studying for the priesthood and his abuse of power over them was an open secret in the US Church. Critics have asked how McCarrick could have risen to become archbishop of Washington, DC from 2001-2006 while many allegedly knew of his misconduct with adults. Pope Francis ordered a "thorough study" last year of all documents concerning McCarrick. The four US dioceses where he served - New York, Metuchen, Newark, and Washington - have launched independent investigations. The conference ends on Sunday when the pope will make a final speech. The Vatican says it will then formulate follow-up measures to make sure all bishop return home knowing how to put anti-abuse procedures into place.

At Pope's abuse summit, Church seeks to fix 'systematic failures'

The Vatican has defrocked former United States cardinal, Theodore McCarrick after a church trial found him guilty of sexually abusing minors.

McCarrick is the highest-ranking Catholic figure who has been dismissed from priesthood over the sexual abuse crisis, reported CNN.

During his tenure, he led the Archdiocese of Washington and was recognised as a powerful advocate of the Catholic Church`s political priorities in the country.

According to a statement from the Vatican, Pope Francis has recognised the judgment to be of a "definitive nature" and "res iudicata" which means it is no longer subject to appeal.

The Pope has accepted the resignations of as many as five American bishops since 2015. The church has been roiled in a sex abuse crisis as several Catholic figures have been accused of either sexual misconduct or of mishandling the abuse cases.McCarrick, who is 88 and resides in Kansas, can no longer present himself as a priest or celebrate the sacraments.

The Pope had asked the former cardinal to live a secluded life of "prayer and penance" last summer. Following his defrocking, McCarrick will no longer be provided for by the church, so his way of sustenance hangs in a balance now.&nbsp;

The Vatican has defrocked former United States cardinal, Theodore McCarrick after a church trial found him guilty of sexually abusing minors. McCarrick is the highest-ranking Catholic figure who has been dismissed from priesthood over the sexual abuse crisis, reported CNN.

The Vatican has defrocked former United States cardinal, Theodore McCarrick after a church trial found him guilty of sexually abusing minors. McCarrick is the highest-ranking Catholic figure who has been dismissed from priesthood over the sexual abuse crisis, reported CNN. During his tenure, he led the Archdiocese of Washington and was recognised as a powerful advocate of the Catholic Church`s political priorities in the country. According to a statement from the Vatican, Pope Francis has recognised the judgment to be of a "definitive nature" and "res iudicata" which means it is no longer subject to appeal. The Pope has accepted the resignations of as many as five American bishops since 2015. The church has been roiled in a sex abuse crisis as several Catholic figures have been accused of either sexual misconduct or of mishandling the abuse cases.McCarrick, who is 88 and resides in Kansas, can no longer present himself as a priest or celebrate the sacraments. The Pope had asked the former cardinal to live a secluded life of "prayer and penance" last summer. Following his defrocking, McCarrick will no longer be provided for by the church, so his way of sustenance hangs in a balance now.

Vatican dismisses former US cardinal over sexual abuse allegations

Michael Jackson's estate on Thursday condemned on Thursday an upcoming documentary about alleged child sexual abuse by the late singer as another "outrageous and pathetic attempt" to cash in on his fame.

The documentary 'Leaving Neverland' will be screened at the Sundance independent film festival later this month and will be shown on cable channel HBO and Britain's Channel 4 television network this spring, festival organizers and HBO said.

It features interviews with two men, now in their 30s, who say they were befriended by the singer and sexually abused by him when they were young boys, according to the filmmakers.

The 'Thriller' singer, who died in 2009, was acquitted at a 2005 criminal trial in California on charges of molesting a different, 13-year-old boy, at his Neverland ranch.

The documentary focuses on the experiences of Wade Robson and James Safechuck. Both men filed lawsuits against the Jackson estate alleging sexual misconduct after the singer's death and both cases were dismissed. Robson had testified at Jackson's 2005 trial in the singer's defence.

"This so called ‘documentary’ is just another rehash of dated and discredited allegations," Jackson's estate said in a statement.&nbsp;

"This is yet another lurid production in an outrageous and pathetic attempt to exploit and cash in on Michael Jackson."

Director Dan Reed said he had no question about the validity of the stories of the two men.&nbsp;

"If there’s anything we’ve learned during this time in our history, it’s that sexual abuse is complicated, and survivors’ voices need to be listened to," he said in a statement.

Jackson's sudden death at age 50 of an overdose of the anesthetic that he was using as a sleep aid triggered worldwide grief and a surge in record sales.&nbsp;

According to an annual Forbes survey, Jackson has been the top-earning dead celebrity for the past six years. In 2018, Forbes estimated he earned $400 million, thanks to the sale of his stake in EMI Music Publishing and other ventures including a television special and the Las Vegas Cirque du Soleil show 'One.'

Michael Jackson's estate on Thursday condemned on Thursday an upcoming documentary about alleged child sexual abuse by the late singer as another "outrageous and pathetic attempt" to cash in on his fame.

Michael Jackson's estate on Thursday condemned on Thursday an upcoming documentary about alleged child sexual abuse by the late singer as another "outrageous and pathetic attempt" to cash in on his fame. The documentary 'Leaving Neverland' will be screened at the Sundance independent film festival later this month and will be shown on cable channel HBO and Britain's Channel 4 television network this spring, festival organizers and HBO said. It features interviews with two men, now in their 30s, who say they were befriended by the singer and sexually abused by him when they were young boys, according to the filmmakers. The 'Thriller' singer, who died in 2009, was acquitted at a 2005 criminal trial in California on charges of molesting a different, 13-year-old boy, at his Neverland ranch. The documentary focuses on the experiences of Wade Robson and James Safechuck. Both men filed lawsuits against the Jackson estate alleging sexual misconduct after the singer's death and both cases were dismissed. Robson had testified at Jackson's 2005 trial in the singer's defence. "This so called ‘documentary’ is just another rehash of dated and discredited allegations," Jackson's estate said in a statement. "This is yet another lurid production in an outrageous and pathetic attempt to exploit and cash in on Michael Jackson." Director Dan Reed said he had no question about the validity of the stories of the two men. "If there’s anything we’ve learned during this time in our history, it’s that sexual abuse is complicated, and survivors’ voices need to be listened to," he said in a statement. Jackson's sudden death at age 50 of an overdose of the anesthetic that he was using as a sleep aid triggered worldwide grief and a surge in record sales. According to an annual Forbes survey, Jackson has been the top-earning dead celebrity for the past six years. In 2018, Forbes estimated he earned $400 million, thanks to the sale of his stake in EMI Music Publishing and other ventures including a television special and the Las Vegas Cirque du Soleil show 'One.'

Michael Jackson's estate slams as 'pathetic' abuse claims in new documentary

Sundance Film Festival has added the world premiere of the documentary 'Leaving Neverland' to its lineup.

The documentary focuses on sexual abuse allegations against the late pop legend Michael Jackson, Variety reported.

Produced and directed by Dan Reed, the film describes how Jackson allegedly began relationships with two boys, aged 7 and 10. The two, now in their 30s, claim they were sexually abused by Jackson and reveal how they have come to terms with it years later.

In response to the announcement, representatives for the Jackson estate issues a statement, "This is yet another lurid production in an outrageous and pathetic attempt to exploit and cash in on Michael Jackson."

The 'Neverland' in the film refers to the Neverland Ranch in Santa Barbara County Calif., where the pop legend lived between 1988 and 2003 and was raided by law enforcement officers in 2003 in connection with molestation accusations against Jackson by a 13-year-old boy.

Jackson was acquitted by jurors of all 14 criminal counts against him in state court in 2005.

'Leaving Neverland' will screen in the special event category at the festival in two parts, totalling nearly four hours, followed by a Q&amp;A with the filmmakers.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sundance Film Festival has added the world premiere of the documentary 'Leaving Neverland' to its lineup. The documentary focuses on sexual abuse allegations against the late pop legend Michael Jackson, Variety reported.

Sundance Film Festival has added the world premiere of the documentary 'Leaving Neverland' to its lineup. The documentary focuses on sexual abuse allegations against the late pop legend Michael Jackson, Variety reported. Produced and directed by Dan Reed, the film describes how Jackson allegedly began relationships with two boys, aged 7 and 10. The two, now in their 30s, claim they were sexually abused by Jackson and reveal how they have come to terms with it years later. In response to the announcement, representatives for the Jackson estate issues a statement, "This is yet another lurid production in an outrageous and pathetic attempt to exploit and cash in on Michael Jackson." The 'Neverland' in the film refers to the Neverland Ranch in Santa Barbara County Calif., where the pop legend lived between 1988 and 2003 and was raided by law enforcement officers in 2003 in connection with molestation accusations against Jackson by a 13-year-old boy. Jackson was acquitted by jurors of all 14 criminal counts against him in state court in 2005. 'Leaving Neverland' will screen in the special event category at the festival in two parts, totalling nearly four hours, followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.

'Leaving Neverland': Sexual abuse documentary on Michael Jackson to premiere in Sundance Film Festival

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte drew outrage Sunday after saying he "touched" his maid when he was a teenager, with women's rights groups accusing him of attempted rape and encouraging sexual abuse.

Duterte frequently sparks uproar with his comments on women, including rape jokes and boasting about adultery.

In his latest remarks, Duterte recounted a confession he had with a priest in high school, detailing how he had entered the room of his maid while she was sleeping.&nbsp;

"I lifted the blanket... I tried to touch what was inside the panty," Duterte said in a speech late Saturday.

"I was touching. She woke up. So I left the room."

Duterte recounted telling the priest that he had then returned to the maid's room and again tried to molest her.

Women's rights political party Gabriela denounced Duterte's "repulsive" comments and called for him to resign, saying he had confessed to attempted rape.

"Rape does not happen only through penile insertion. If it is a finger or an object it is considered rape," said Joms Salvador, secretary general of Gabriela.

Responding to the criticism, Duterte's spokesman said Sunday that the president had "made up" and "added and spliced" the story.&nbsp;

"He has made up a laughable anecdote to dramatise the fact of sexual abuse that was inflicted on him and his fellow students when they were in high school," said Salvador Panelo.&nbsp;

Duterte, 73, made the remarks as he blasted the Catholic Church over allegations of sexually abusing children.

The president, who brands the church the "most hypocritical institution" in the mainly Catholic nation, said Saturday that he and his classmates at school were molested during confession.

It was his latest tirade against bishops and priests who have been critical of his drug war which has left more than 5,000 people dead, according to official figures.&nbsp;

Duterte and his aides often dismiss his controversial statements about women as a "joke" or insist they are taken out of context.&nbsp;

Duterte provoked fury in 2016 when during an election campaign speech he said he had wanted to rape a "beautiful" Australian missionary who had been murdered in a Philippine prison riot.

Women's advocates said Duterte's latest comments endangered domestic workers.&nbsp;

More than a million Filipinos work abroad as domestic workers, according to the labour ministry.&nbsp;

"Flaunting abusive practices encourages the rape culture and in this case, sexual abuse of domestic workers," said Jean Enriquez, executive director of the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women-Asia Pacific.

Duterte frequently sparks uproar with his comments on women, including rape jokes and boasting about adultery.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte drew outrage Sunday after saying he "touched" his maid when he was a teenager, with women's rights groups accusing him of attempted rape and encouraging sexual abuse. Duterte frequently sparks uproar with his comments on women, including rape jokes and boasting about adultery. In his latest remarks, Duterte recounted a confession he had with a priest in high school, detailing how he had entered the room of his maid while she was sleeping. "I lifted the blanket... I tried to touch what was inside the panty," Duterte said in a speech late Saturday. "I was touching. She woke up. So I left the room." Duterte recounted telling the priest that he had then returned to the maid's room and again tried to molest her. Women's rights political party Gabriela denounced Duterte's "repulsive" comments and called for him to resign, saying he had confessed to attempted rape. "Rape does not happen only through penile insertion. If it is a finger or an object it is considered rape," said Joms Salvador, secretary general of Gabriela. Responding to the criticism, Duterte's spokesman said Sunday that the president had "made up" and "added and spliced" the story. "He has made up a laughable anecdote to dramatise the fact of sexual abuse that was inflicted on him and his fellow students when they were in high school," said Salvador Panelo. Duterte, 73, made the remarks as he blasted the Catholic Church over allegations of sexually abusing children. The president, who brands the church the "most hypocritical institution" in the mainly Catholic nation, said Saturday that he and his classmates at school were molested during confession. It was his latest tirade against bishops and priests who have been critical of his drug war which has left more than 5,000 people dead, according to official figures. Duterte and his aides often dismiss his controversial statements about women as a "joke" or insist they are taken out of context. Duterte provoked fury in 2016 when during an election campaign speech he said he had wanted to rape a "beautiful" Australian missionary who had been murdered in a Philippine prison riot. Women's advocates said Duterte's latest comments endangered domestic workers. More than a million Filipinos work abroad as domestic workers, according to the labour ministry. "Flaunting abusive practices encourages the rape culture and in this case, sexual abuse of domestic workers," said Jean Enriquez, executive director of the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women-Asia Pacific.

Philippine President Duterte sparks outrage for saying he 'touched' his maid

Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey has been charged in connection with an allegation that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/actor-kevin-spacey-declares-he-is-gay-23119">he sexually abused an 18-year-old boy</a> at a Nantucket, Massachusetts, bar more than two years ago, the local district attorney said on Monday.

Spacey is scheduled to be arraigned at Nantucket District Court on Jan. 7 on a single charge of indecent assault and battery on a person who is at least 14 years old, according to court documents and a statement issued by Cape and Islands District Attorney Michael O'Keefe.

An attorney for Spacey did not immediately reply to a request for comment. The actor, however, released a video on YouTube on Monday in which he adopts the persona of his character Frank Underwood in the popular Netflix TV series "House of Cards" and says, "I know what you want, you want me back ... You wouldn't rush to judgments without facts, would you?"

The 3-minute video (below) makes no specific reference to the Massachusetts allegation.

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The charge against Spacey, 59, whose full name is Kevin Spacey Fowler, was filed after a Dec. 20 hearing, O'Keefe said. The name on the complaint was Kevin S. Fowler.

The charge against Spacey follows an allegation in November 2017 by Boston television journalist Heather Unruh that her 18-year-old son was sexually assaulted by the actor at the Club Car restaurant and bar in Nantucket on July 7, 2016.

At a news conference in which she made the allegations, Unruh said her "star struck" son falsely told the actor he was old enough to drink when he met him at the bar. The legal age to drink alcoholic beverages in Massachusetts is 21.

'DRINK AFTER DRINK'

"Kevin Spacey bought him drink after drink after drink, and when my son was drunk, Spacey made his move and sexually assaulted him," Unruh said at the 2017 news conference.

The actor allegedly stuck his hands into her son's pants and grabbed his genitals, she said, adding it was "completely unexpected" and her son tried unsuccessfully to shift his body away from Spacey.

"He did not report the crime at the time, and that was largely because of embarrassment and fear," she said.

Unruh said her son filed a report with police in Nantucket, a resort island off the southern coast of Massachusetts, shortly before her news conference.

More than 30 men have said they were victims of unwanted sexual advances by Spacey, who became embroiled in controversy last year when actor Anthony Rapp accused him of trying to seduce him in 1986 when Rapp was 14. In October 2017, Spacey apologised for any inappropriate conduct with Rapp but has not commented since.

The fallout resulted in Spacey, who won a best actor Oscar in 2000 for “American Beauty,” being dropped from the final season of “House of Cards” and erased from the 2017 movie “All the Money in the World.”

Spacey is one of dozens of men in the entertainment industry and politics who have been accused of sexual misconduct, partly as a result of the #MeToo social media movement that began over a year ago.

Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey has been charged in connection with an allegation that he sexually abused an 18-year-old boy at a Nantucket, Massachusetts, bar more than two years ago, the local district attorney said on Monday.

Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey has been charged in connection with an allegation that he sexually abused an 18-year-old boy at a Nantucket, Massachusetts, bar more than two years ago, the local district attorney said on Monday. Spacey is scheduled to be arraigned at Nantucket District Court on Jan. 7 on a single charge of indecent assault and battery on a person who is at least 14 years old, according to court documents and a statement issued by Cape and Islands District Attorney Michael O'Keefe. An attorney for Spacey did not immediately reply to a request for comment. The actor, however, released a video on YouTube on Monday in which he adopts the persona of his character Frank Underwood in the popular Netflix TV series "House of Cards" and says, "I know what you want, you want me back ... You wouldn't rush to judgments without facts, would you?" The 3-minute video (below) makes no specific reference to the Massachusetts allegation. × The charge against Spacey, 59, whose full name is Kevin Spacey Fowler, was filed after a Dec. 20 hearing, O'Keefe said. The name on the complaint was Kevin S. Fowler. The charge against Spacey follows an allegation in November 2017 by Boston television journalist Heather Unruh that her 18-year-old son was sexually assaulted by the actor at the Club Car restaurant and bar in Nantucket on July 7, 2016. At a news conference in which she made the allegations, Unruh said her "star struck" son falsely told the actor he was old enough to drink when he met him at the bar. The legal age to drink alcoholic beverages in Massachusetts is 21. 'DRINK AFTER DRINK' "Kevin Spacey bought him drink after drink after drink, and when my son was drunk, Spacey made his move and sexually assaulted him," Unruh said at the 2017 news conference. The actor allegedly stuck his hands into her son's pants and grabbed his genitals, she said, adding it was "completely unexpected" and her son tried unsuccessfully to shift his body away from Spacey. "He did not report the crime at the time, and that was largely because of embarrassment and fear," she said. Unruh said her son filed a report with police in Nantucket, a resort island off the southern coast of Massachusetts, shortly before her news conference. More than 30 men have said they were victims of unwanted sexual advances by Spacey, who became embroiled in controversy last year when actor Anthony Rapp accused him of trying to seduce him in 1986 when Rapp was 14. In October 2017, Spacey apologised for any inappropriate conduct with Rapp but has not commented since. The fallout resulted in Spacey, who won a best actor Oscar in 2000 for “American Beauty,” being dropped from the final season of “House of Cards” and erased from the 2017 movie “All the Money in the World.” Spacey is one of dozens of men in the entertainment industry and politics who have been accused of sexual misconduct, partly as a result of the #MeToo social media movement that began over a year ago.

Kevin Spacey charged with sexually abusing 18-year-old boy

A Brazilian faith healer who was accused of sexual abuse by more than 300 women has turned himself in a day after being officially ruled a fugitive, local news media reported on Sunday.

João Teixeira de Faria, known as "John of God" and who became a celebrity when Oprah Winfrey broadcast a report on his healing methods in 2013, surrendered to authorities in a roadway in Abadiânia, several news outlets said. Since 1976, he has led a spiritual centre in Abadiânia, a small town in the central Brazilian state of Goiás.

Representatives for Faria and police could not be immediately reached for comment.

A judge on Friday had issued an arrest warrant for Faria giving until 2 PM (1600 GMT) on Saturday to surrender. After he failed to report to authorities, Faria was officially declared to be a fugitive.

Faria drew thousands of Brazilians and foreigners to his spiritual centre in Abadiânia.

Faria denied the accusations on Thursday when he visited his centre and spoke to a crowd of followers. His lawyer on Saturday said Faria would turn himself in and file an appeal on Monday.

Faria, 76, could face charges of rape, with a prison sentence of 10 years if convicted, and rape of a vulnerable person, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years. 
&nbsp;

A Brazilian faith healer who was accused of sexual abuse by more than 300 women has turned himself in a day after being officially ruled a fugitive, local news media reported on Sunday.

A Brazilian faith healer who was accused of sexual abuse by more than 300 women has turned himself in a day after being officially ruled a fugitive, local news media reported on Sunday. João Teixeira de Faria, known as "John of God" and who became a celebrity when Oprah Winfrey broadcast a report on his healing methods in 2013, surrendered to authorities in a roadway in Abadiânia, several news outlets said. Since 1976, he has led a spiritual centre in Abadiânia, a small town in the central Brazilian state of Goiás. Representatives for Faria and police could not be immediately reached for comment. A judge on Friday had issued an arrest warrant for Faria giving until 2 PM (1600 GMT) on Saturday to surrender. After he failed to report to authorities, Faria was officially declared to be a fugitive. Faria drew thousands of Brazilians and foreigners to his spiritual centre in Abadiânia. Faria denied the accusations on Thursday when he visited his centre and spoke to a crowd of followers. His lawyer on Saturday said Faria would turn himself in and file an appeal on Monday. Faria, 76, could face charges of rape, with a prison sentence of 10 years if convicted, and rape of a vulnerable person, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years.

Brazil faith healer accused of sexual abuse turns himself in

Thousands demonstrate against sexual violence at Paris protest

What the judgment of the Supreme Court in Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997) did not do; what even the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (“Act”) did not do; the #MeToo movement has done – which is to wake up every corporate entity in India to take sexual harassment as a serious malady and not merely a thorn in its side.

The recent spurt of awareness programmes at workplaces; hasty formulation of complaints processes; hushed but expedited setting up of Internal Complaints Committee (“ICC”), are all welcome momentum in the inertia-ridden corporate world.

Not surprisingly, the natural knee-jerk reaction to anything disruptive and the consequent overreach have also already reared its head. Many a corporate romance does end up in a lifelong relationship and even if they don’t, it is still a consensual relationship between adults who may decide the course of such events. A query at a recent panel discussion on #MeToo and corporate romances highlighted the fear factor that now permeates corporates and male colleagues alike.

The larger threat to women appears to be the possibility of employers shunning them, as a risk element in workplaces or worse mollycoddling women employees in their fear of any “stigma” impacting the corporate entity. Equally unfortunate that many companies appear to have resorted to play it safe than be sorry by “banning” romances or at least subjecting them to monitoring. Apart from policies mandating disclosure of personal relationships amounting to blatant violation of privacy, it also brings in the “chilling effect” at workplaces.

Knowing the Laxman Rekha for sexual harassment is expedient to avoid such excessive or regressive actions.

Sexual harassment in the eyes of law: The Act sets out an inclusive definition for sexual harassment but the Criminal provisions under S.354A Indian Penal Code is limited to specific actions. Of these, unwelcome physical contact and advances, explicit sexual overtures, demand or request for sexual favours and showing pornography against the will of a woman carry a more stringent punishment of three years, as opposed to making sexually coloured remarks, which is punishable with one year imprisonment.

In addition, a person in a fiduciary relationship abusing his authority to induce or seduce a woman in his custody or charge or even present in the premises to have sexual intercourse, which may not amount to rape is also an offence punishable under S.376C IPC with six years imprisonment.

Against this, the Sexual Harassment Act provides an open-ended inclusive definition. Implied or explicit promises of preferential treatment or threat of detrimental treatment including in present or future, in employment; interference with her work; creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile work environment; humiliating treatment likely to affect her health or safety are all acts amounting to sexual harassment under the Act.

Corporate policies for internal penal actions may, therefore, be more stringent than those under IPC for initiation of criminal prosecution. These, however, would have to be explicitly set out in the human resources policies to support such initiation of action. Any corporate action against culprits would have to be preceded by an inquiry by ICC.

Women — not just employees — protected: Corporate policies need to take into account that it is not just women employees but “any woman” present at a “workplace” who is protected under the Act. The Act is gender-specific to “women”, as victims but is gender neutral with respect to the perpetrator, i.e., complaint against a woman may be entertained for commission of sexual harassment against another woman, subject however to other provisions being applicable.

Workplace &amp; The Act: In today’s hyper-connected world every place in effect would become a workplace. The Sexual Harassment Act itself expands the workplace not just to the office premises but also to places visited by employees in the course of employment including transportation provided by the employer. It would therefore include even online workspaces.

Purpose &amp; its implementation: With the application of the Sexual Harassment Act extending to any woman present in a “workplace”, enforcing excessive or possibly restrictive protections to women employees is clearly misplaced. Similarly, placing employees in different hotels or mandating travel by co-workers on different vehicles reeks of segregation processes in schools and colleges. If not anything else it certainly demonstrates abject lack of trust. Most significantly, none of these actions, including restraining or restricting office romances or travels together or other regressive processes is likely to protect against commission of an act of sexual harassment. 
 
Short of restricting all forms of communication between the two genders, which clearly is not just impractical but impossible, there is no way for corporates to create Chinese walls to protect against complaints of sexual harassment – for a man may commit an offence against a woman employee (yes the law is gender specific) or against a non-employee. If the act is committed at a “workplace”, which could even be a coffee shop where a meeting is being held or even during a conference call, the ICC of the entity is required to entertain the complaint.

It is imperative for corporates to understand that the law is not “against” them. Nor is it intended to become yet another restrictive and regressive step for women. It is intended as a facilitator for women to freely venture out and be part of the workforce. The law is for and about women. Experience has taught us that any attempt at keeping statistics “clean" will only defeat the purpose behind an enactment.

Registration of a complaint with the ICC is not a blot on a corporate entity or a stigma. On the contrary, it reflects the robustness of its sexual harassment policies and implementation. It is not important to protect adults against each other especially against their natural urges or choices. The decisions of the Supreme Court from the Privacy judgment to the recent strike down of adultery as a Criminal offence demonstrate the need to protect an adult’s consensual choice. 
 
The need of the hour for companies is to, therefore, put in place effective processes for undertaking complaints of sexual harassment boldly and transparently and to ensure speedy and just disposals. The measure of a company’s worth or safe workplace may probably now depend not on a “clean slate” with no complaints registered but of effective, speedy and conscientious handling of sexual harassment complaints, which is a more plausible measure. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-metoo-for-corporate-world-2686760">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

What the judgment of the Supreme Court in Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997) did not do; what even the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (“Act”) did not do; the #MeToo movement has done – which is to wake up every corporate entity in India to take sexual harassment as a serious malady and not merely a thorn in its side.

What the judgment of the Supreme Court in Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997) did not do; what even the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (“Act”) did not do; the #MeToo movement has done – which is to wake up every corporate entity in India to take sexual harassment as a serious malady and not merely a thorn in its side. The recent spurt of awareness programmes at workplaces; hasty formulation of complaints processes; hushed but expedited setting up of Internal Complaints Committee (“ICC”), are all welcome momentum in the inertia-ridden corporate world. Not surprisingly, the natural knee-jerk reaction to anything disruptive and the consequent overreach have also already reared its head. Many a corporate romance does end up in a lifelong relationship and even if they don’t, it is still a consensual relationship between adults who may decide the course of such events. A query at a recent panel discussion on #MeToo and corporate romances highlighted the fear factor that now permeates corporates and male colleagues alike. The larger threat to women appears to be the possibility of employers shunning them, as a risk element in workplaces or worse mollycoddling women employees in their fear of any “stigma” impacting the corporate entity. Equally unfortunate that many companies appear to have resorted to play it safe than be sorry by “banning” romances or at least subjecting them to monitoring. Apart from policies mandating disclosure of personal relationships amounting to blatant violation of privacy, it also brings in the “chilling effect” at workplaces. Knowing the Laxman Rekha for sexual harassment is expedient to avoid such excessive or regressive actions. Sexual harassment in the eyes of law: The Act sets out an inclusive definition for sexual harassment but the Criminal provisions under S.354A Indian Penal Code is limited to specific actions. Of these, unwelcome physical contact and advances, explicit sexual overtures, demand or request for sexual favours and showing pornography against the will of a woman carry a more stringent punishment of three years, as opposed to making sexually coloured remarks, which is punishable with one year imprisonment. In addition, a person in a fiduciary relationship abusing his authority to induce or seduce a woman in his custody or charge or even present in the premises to have sexual intercourse, which may not amount to rape is also an offence punishable under S.376C IPC with six years imprisonment. Against this, the Sexual Harassment Act provides an open-ended inclusive definition. Implied or explicit promises of preferential treatment or threat of detrimental treatment including in present or future, in employment; interference with her work; creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile work environment; humiliating treatment likely to affect her health or safety are all acts amounting to sexual harassment under the Act. Corporate policies for internal penal actions may, therefore, be more stringent than those under IPC for initiation of criminal prosecution. These, however, would have to be explicitly set out in the human resources policies to support such initiation of action. Any corporate action against culprits would have to be preceded by an inquiry by ICC. Women — not just employees — protected: Corporate policies need to take into account that it is not just women employees but “any woman” present at a “workplace” who is protected under the Act. The Act is gender-specific to “women”, as victims but is gender neutral with respect to the perpetrator, i.e., complaint against a woman may be entertained for commission of sexual harassment against another woman, subject however to other provisions being applicable. Workplace & The Act: In today’s hyper-connected world every place in effect would become a workplace. The Sexual Harassment Act itself expands the workplace not just to the office premises but also to places visited by employees in the course of employment including transportation provided by the employer. It would therefore include even online workspaces. Purpose & its implementation: With the application of the Sexual Harassment Act extending to any woman present in a “workplace”, enforcing excessive or possibly restrictive protections to women employees is clearly misplaced. Similarly, placing employees in different hotels or mandating travel by co-workers on different vehicles reeks of segregation processes in schools and colleges. If not anything else it certainly demonstrates abject lack of trust. Most significantly, none of these actions, including restraining or restricting office romances or travels together or other regressive processes is likely to protect against commission of an act of sexual harassment. Short of restricting all forms of communication between the two genders, which clearly is not just impractical but impossible, there is no way for corporates to create Chinese walls to protect against complaints of sexual harassment – for a man may commit an offence against a woman employee (yes the law is gender specific) or against a non-employee. If the act is committed at a “workplace”, which could even be a coffee shop where a meeting is being held or even during a conference call, the ICC of the entity is required to entertain the complaint. It is imperative for corporates to understand that the law is not “against” them. Nor is it intended to become yet another restrictive and regressive step for women. It is intended as a facilitator for women to freely venture out and be part of the workforce. The law is for and about women. Experience has taught us that any attempt at keeping statistics “clean" will only defeat the purpose behind an enactment. Registration of a complaint with the ICC is not a blot on a corporate entity or a stigma. On the contrary, it reflects the robustness of its sexual harassment policies and implementation. It is not important to protect adults against each other especially against their natural urges or choices. The decisions of the Supreme Court from the Privacy judgment to the recent strike down of adultery as a Criminal offence demonstrate the need to protect an adult’s consensual choice. The need of the hour for companies is to, therefore, put in place effective processes for undertaking complaints of sexual harassment boldly and transparently and to ensure speedy and just disposals. The measure of a company’s worth or safe workplace may probably now depend not on a “clean slate” with no complaints registered but of effective, speedy and conscientious handling of sexual harassment complaints, which is a more plausible measure. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How #MeToo movement has impacted corporate world

North Korea Sunday slammed a report by Human Rights Watch which said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sexual-abuse-part-of-daily-routine-in-north-korea-report-174984">sexual abuse of women</a> was rampant in the isolated nation.

In its report released Thursday, the US-based rights group said North Korean police and other officials prey on women with near-total impunity.

HRW drew on interviews with more than 50 North Korean escapees to chronicle gruesome details of rape and other abuses perpetrated by security officers such as border guards, but also civilian officials.

In its response Sunday, the North's Korean Association for Human Rights Studies said the "preposterous" report was "a part of political scheme fabricated by the hostile forces ... to tarnish the image of the DPRK", the state Korean Central News Agency reported, using the country's official acronym.

"It is also an extremely dangerous provocation aimed at reversing the tide of peace and prosperity on the Korean peninsula," the statement said, branding the women interviewed as "human scum".

In the HRW report, one anonymous former textile trader in her 40s recounted being treated like a sex toy "at the mercy of men".

"On the days they felt like it, market guards or police officials could ask me to follow them to an empty room outside the market, or some other place they'd pick," where they forced sexual encounters, she said.

"It happens so often nobody thinks it is a big deal. We don't even realise when we are upset," she added.

Pyongyang maintains that it protects and promotes "genuine human rights", and says there is no justification for the West to try to set human rights standards for the rest of the world.

"Sexual violence in North Korea is an open, unaddressed, and widely tolerated secret," said HRW executive director Kenneth Roth.

North Korea Sunday slammed a report by Human Rights Watch which said sexual abuse of women was rampant in the isolated nation. In its report released Thursday, the US-based rights group said North Korean police and other officials prey on women with near-total impunity.

North Korea Sunday slammed a report by Human Rights Watch which said sexual abuse of women was rampant in the isolated nation. In its report released Thursday, the US-based rights group said North Korean police and other officials prey on women with near-total impunity. HRW drew on interviews with more than 50 North Korean escapees to chronicle gruesome details of rape and other abuses perpetrated by security officers such as border guards, but also civilian officials. In its response Sunday, the North's Korean Association for Human Rights Studies said the "preposterous" report was "a part of political scheme fabricated by the hostile forces ... to tarnish the image of the DPRK", the state Korean Central News Agency reported, using the country's official acronym. "It is also an extremely dangerous provocation aimed at reversing the tide of peace and prosperity on the Korean peninsula," the statement said, branding the women interviewed as "human scum". In the HRW report, one anonymous former textile trader in her 40s recounted being treated like a sex toy "at the mercy of men". "On the days they felt like it, market guards or police officials could ask me to follow them to an empty room outside the market, or some other place they'd pick," where they forced sexual encounters, she said. "It happens so often nobody thinks it is a big deal. We don't even realise when we are upset," she added. Pyongyang maintains that it protects and promotes "genuine human rights", and says there is no justification for the West to try to set human rights standards for the rest of the world. "Sexual violence in North Korea is an open, unaddressed, and widely tolerated secret," said HRW executive director Kenneth Roth.

North Korea slams sex abuse report by Human Rights Watch

Actor Alok Nath responded to the show-cause notice on Monday that has been sent to by the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association.&nbsp;The notice was sent to the actor after writer-producer Vinta Nanda accused him of raping her 20 years back.&nbsp;

The actor, in his response, said that he is not liable or answerable to any organisation since no formal police complaint has been filed by the accused.

The response sent to IFTDA by Alok Nath’s lawyer reads, “My client states that however, in the present case, there is no complaint at all made with any of the police authorities nor filed with any of the legal authorities save and except making interviews and some complaints on social media.”

“Please note that since till date, there is no such initial complaint made by any of person including the said Smt Vinta Nanda, the question of my client being liable to show any case before your association does not arise,” the notice further added. 
 
Nath on Monday also responded to the CINTAA notice and refuted the allegations that have been made by Nanda against him.&nbsp; 
 
After Nanda called out the actor in an emotional post on Facebook, two other women have come out and spoken about being harassed by Nath on film sets. Nath is yet to respond to those allegations.&nbsp;

Actor Alok Nath responded to the show-cause notice on Monday that has been sent to by the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association. The notice was sent to the actor after writer-producer Vinta Nanda accused him of raping her 20 years back.

Actor Alok Nath responded to the show-cause notice on Monday that has been sent to by the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association. The notice was sent to the actor after writer-producer Vinta Nanda accused him of raping her 20 years back. The actor, in his response, said that he is not liable or answerable to any organisation since no formal police complaint has been filed by the accused. The response sent to IFTDA by Alok Nath’s lawyer reads, “My client states that however, in the present case, there is no complaint at all made with any of the police authorities nor filed with any of the legal authorities save and except making interviews and some complaints on social media.” “Please note that since till date, there is no such initial complaint made by any of person including the said Smt Vinta Nanda, the question of my client being liable to show any case before your association does not arise,” the notice further added. Nath on Monday also responded to the CINTAA notice and refuted the allegations that have been made by Nanda against him. After Nanda called out the actor in an emotional post on Facebook, two other women have come out and spoken about being harassed by Nath on film sets. Nath is yet to respond to those allegations.

Alok Nath to Director's Association: Not answerable to any organisation since no police complaint has been made

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