body
stringlengths 6
42.2k
| labels
int64 0
6
|
|---|---|
The government has decided to enhance the capabilities of local governments in addressing climate change issues. This decision was made during a meeting of the climate change trust board at the environment ministry. The project will be carried out in collaboration with various ministry units and the non-governmental organization Bangladesh Unnayan Parishad (BUP), as stated by environment state minister Hasan Mamud during a briefing with journalists. Additionally, the board has given initial approval to climate change projects proposed by 25 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) after the costs of the projects were adjusted. The NGOs will be required to complete their work within the approved budget after further discussions. He continued by stating that if any of the organizations go over budget, they will be held accountable by the board. Mahmud also mentioned that an expert organization will assess the projects completed by both government and non-governmental organizations approved by the trustee board. Additionally, the board decided to prioritize projects that would provide immediate benefits to the public and skip others. The meeting was attended by board members such as food minister Abdur Razzak and trustee board chairman Qazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmad. | 2 |
Gujarat in western India will hold elections in December, posing a challenge for the ruling Congress party amidst their current crisis. Additionally, Himachal Pradesh in northern India will have elections on Nov. 14 and Dec. 19. Political analyst Mahesh Rangarajan noted that this will be the first direct contest between the Congress and the opposition BJP since the political climate changed due to the nuclear deal. The Congress, leading India's ruling coalition, is facing resistance from leftist allies over the deal with the US, with threats of withdrawing support if the deal proceeds. If this scenario occurs, the government would be in the minority and it is possible that national elections could take place before the scheduled date in 2009. Over 30 million individuals will participate in voting for 182 seats in Gujarat in two phases on December 11 and 16. The Chief Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist BJP party has been victorious in the last three elections. Five years ago, Modi faced allegations of neglect during Hindu-Muslim riots in Gujarat in which around 2,500 individuals, mostly Muslims, were killed according to human rights organizations. The official death toll is around 1,000. The riots began in 2002 following a fire on a train carrying Hindu pilgrims that resulted in the deaths of 59 people. The fire was believed to have been initiated by a group of Muslim individuals. | 2 |
Thunberg, the 16-year-old Swedish climate activist, was set to depart from Hampton, Virginia, on Wednesday morning aboard the La Vagabonde, a 48-foot catamaran owned by an Australian couple who document their travels on YouTube. The journey to Spain, where Thunberg plans to attend the next UN climate talks, is expected to take about three weeks. Thunberg explained that she chose to sail in order to emphasize the challenges of living sustainably in today's society, and she avoids flying due to the high greenhouse gas emissions associated with aviation. Her journey from Europe to the United States was made by boat, a racing yacht that departed from Plymouth, England and docked in New York harbour in August. Thunberg had been slowly traveling across the United States and Canada, making appearances on various shows, participating in protests, and joining school strikes every Friday. She had intended to continue her journey south to Santiago, Chile for the next round of UN climate negotiations in December, but her plans had to be altered due to street protests in Santiago. Chile announced that the climate talks could not take place there, prompting Spain to offer Madrid as a new venue. Greta Thunberg, needing a ride across the ocean once again, expressed her predicament on Twitter, stating she had traveled halfway around the world in the wrong direction. She reached out for assistance in finding transport to cross the Atlantic in November. Riley Whitelum, an Australian sailor traveling with his wife Elayna Carausu, offered to help organize a solution. Within a week, the trip was planned. Whitelum and Carausu will sail with British professional sailor Nikki Henderson. Thunberg's father, Svante, will also be on board for the return journey across the ocean, just as he was for the trip westward. Their 11-month-old son, Lenny, will also be joining them, making Thunberg not the youngest person on board for once. "At last," she remarked. Thunberg's rapid rise in popularity is largely due to her being a child. At 15 years old, she made the decision to protest in front of the Swedish parliament, holding a homemade sign advocating for climate action. She attributes her intense focus on this issue to her Asperger's syndrome, which she considers a superpower. Her actions inspired other young environmental activists and led to numerous school strikes around the world, organized primarily through the use of the internet. Their anger, similar to hers, reflects the frustration felt by their generation towards the slow response to definitive scientific evidence. Thunberg's popularity has increased in the United States, with a new anthology of her speeches being released by Penguin Press. One of her most passionate speeches, given to world leaders at the United Nations in September, has even been remixed into a death-metal version. Additionally, a mural featuring her likeness has been painted on the side of a building in San Francisco. Threats of violence and attacks related to her medical condition have been directed towards her. One of her most well-known encounters in America was with President Donald Trump at the United Nations, where he did not notice her but she glared at him with icy eyes. When asked about her thoughts at that moment, Thunberg simply stated, "It speaks for itself." On Tuesday, she expressed her hope that La Vagabonde would safely and promptly transport her to Spain. She was excited to return to Stockholm and reunite with her two dogs after her travels. Although she enjoys traveling, she also values the comfort of her daily routines at home. | 2 |
The themes found in the three Academy Awards contenders were carefully chosen by Participant Media, a company known for producing socially conscious films. Founded in 2004 by Jeff Skoll, Participant has been behind a wide range of successful movies, from documentaries like "An Inconvenient Truth" to historical dramas like "Lincoln" and award-winning films like "Spotlight". According to Participant Media's CEO David Linde, the company is drawn to stories of ordinary individuals making a difference and inspiring change. Linde mentioned that "Roma" is a notable example of a film. The black-and-white movie, distributed by Netflix Inc, centers around Cleo, an indigenous Mexican housekeeper who shows bravery in difficult situations. It will be competing for the best picture at the Oscars against "Green Book," a film by Participant released by Comcast Corp's Universal Pictures, which tells the story of a black pianist on a 1962 tour of the segregated US South. Actor Mahershala Ali was present at the 91st Oscars Nominees Luncheon in Beverly Hills, California on February 4, 2019. Additionally, the documentary "RBG," focusing on US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, is nominated for best documentary. Actor Mahershala Ali was seen at the 91st Oscars Nominees Luncheon in Beverly Hills, California on February 4, 2019. His involvement in movies is often connected to activism off-screen. For example, the film "Roma" partnered with the National Domestic Workers Alliance to advocate for labor rights and supported the creation of an app that offers benefits to house cleaners, such as paid time off. Scott Budnick, who left producing comedies like "The Hangover" to focus on prison reform, is also using compelling and commercially successful entertainment to drive change. His company, One Community, is working to raise $10 million for a campaign centered around the release of the film "Just Mercy" in January 2020, which stars Michael B. Jordan as a lawyer fighting to free an innocent man convicted of murder. According to Budnick, the upcoming campaign will focus on issues like the death penalty and juvenile sentencing and is expected to launch within the next two months. One Community, which is co-financing "Just Mercy" with Warner Bros. and AT&T Inc., aims to bridge the gap between philanthropy and politics within the entertainment industry. Julie Cohen and Betsy West from "RBG" were seen at a reception for Oscar-nominated documentary films in Los Angeles on Feb 19, 2019. Budnick emphasized the importance of major studios aligning with philanthropists and politicians to effectively address social issues to the public. "We aim to be the force that brings things into alignment," he stated. Macro, a production company responsible for "Just Mercy," is dedicated to creating a diverse range of TV shows and movies that highlight people of color. Previous successful films from Macro include "Fences" and "Mudbound." Founded by Charles King, a former talent agent, Macro receives funding from various organizations, such as the Ford Foundation which contributed $5 million. According to Cara Mertes, director of the Ford Foundation's JustFilms initiative, influencing which stories are told, who tells them, and from what perspective can have a significant impact on changing the national conversation. Budnick's One Community, funded by a range of investors such as Endeavor Content and Philadelphia 76ers co-owner Michael Rubin, aims to have a social justice impact. The company operates with a "double bottom line" approach, seeking to both generate profits and drive social change. Executives are collaborating with social scientists to create metrics for measuring success, although Budnick acknowledges that this framework may not appeal to every investor. According to Budnick, if an individual is seeking a return of 10 times their investment, they could invest in companies like Twitter, Uber, or Instagram. However, this company is focused on generating profits and creating a significant impact. | 2 |
Russian nuclear-capable missiles have been seen moving near Ukraine, and the Kremlin has hinted at the possibility of a new intervention there. Russia has also tested hypersonic cruise missiles that evade US defenses and has severed ties with NATO. Ransomware attacks from Russia have resumed after a summer break, and Microsoft recently exposed a new Russian cyber surveillance campaign. Since President Joe Biden took office, the US has imposed extensive sanctions on Russia, supported Ukraine's military, and warned of cyberattacks against Russian targets. The US Embassy in Moscow has greatly reduced visa issuance. World leaders gathered at the Group of 20 summit in Rome over the weekend, but President Biden was unable to meet face to face with President Putin as he attended the event remotely due to coronavirus concerns. However, despite the tense situation, the two global rivals are engaging in discussions. Since their summit in Geneva in June, there have been multiple contacts between the two countries, including visits to Moscow by senior Biden administration officials and meetings on neutral ground in Finland and Switzerland. Arms control is a key topic of discussion, marking the most substantial conversation on the matter in years. Additionally, the White House's top adviser for cyber and emerging technologies has been holding virtual meetings with her Kremlin counterpart. Several weeks ago, the United States handed over information about hackers to Russia after a debate within the US intelligence community. Now, officials are waiting to see if this leads to arrests to test Putin's commitment to cracking down on cybercrime. Talks between the two countries have not yielded much substance but have helped prevent tensions from escalating. The US is cautious about Putin's intentions but believes they can work together on certain issues. Russia has cooperated with the US on matters like the Iran nuclear deal and North Korea, but also tries to disrupt other areas. Biden's approach has been praised in Russia for showing increased engagement and willingness to negotiate deals. Fyodor Lukyanov, a well-known Moscow foreign policy analyst who advises the Kremlin, stated that Biden comprehends the significance of taking a serious approach. He emphasized that Biden's understanding lies in the fact that he cannot change Russia, as it is set in its ways. The talks are crucial for the White House as they aim to prevent any unexpected geopolitical events that could hinder Biden's focus on competing with China and addressing various challenges within the country. On the other hand, Putin sees the talks as an opportunity to demonstrate Russia's global influence and enhance his image as a stabilizing force domestically. Fiona Hill, who previously served as the top Russia expert in the National Security Council under President Donald Trump, noted that Russians dislike being ignored more than anything else. Due to their desire for a prominent role on the global stage, Russia is seeking ways to gain the attention of the United States. However, this outreach presents risks for the Biden administration, as engaging with a Russia led by Putin could lead to criticism for compromising US interests and stifling dissent. European officials fear that Russia is taking a tough stance during the region's energy crisis, possibly using the approval of a new pipeline as leverage to secure more gas deliveries. Recent social media footage showing Russian military equipment moving near Ukraine has sparked concerns about potential new actions by Russia in the region. In the US, the focus is on the damaging effects of Russia's cyberattacks, with Microsoft revealing a new campaign targeting government, corporate, and think tank networks, despite sanctions imposed by Biden in response to the Solar Winds hack earlier this year. However, according to Dmitri Alperovitch, chairman of research group Silverado Policy Accelerator, it also indicated a long-term shift in Russian tactics. Alperovitch pointed out that Russia's focus on undermining America's cyberspace infrastructure, rather than just targeting individual corporate or federal entities, signified a strategic change rather than a one-time event. Russia has already exploited President Biden's desire for a more stable relationship to gain concessions from Washington. For example, when Victoria Nuland, a high-ranking State Department official, attempted to visit Moscow for talks at the Kremlin, the Russian government initially hesitated due to Nuland's reputation as a Russia hawk. However, a deal was eventually reached. If Washington were to grant a visa to a top Russian diplomat who had not been able to enter the United States since 2019, then Nuland could visit Moscow. The Biden administration accepted the offer and Nuland's discussions in Moscow were described as covering a wide range of topics. However, there are certain areas that the Kremlin does not want to address, such as Russia's suppression of dissent and the treatment of imprisoned opposition leader Alexei Navalny, despite Biden's expressed disapproval of these issues. Although Biden will not meet with Putin in person at the Group of 20 summit in Rome or the climate summit in Glasgow, Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, stated in October that another meeting between the two presidents this year in some form is likely. Foreign Minister Sergey V Lavrov mentioned that he briefly spoke with Biden in Rome and the president emphasized his commitment to future communication. Russia specialist Kadri Liik from the European Council on Foreign Relations in Berlin commented that Biden has been effective in signaling to Russia, noting that Russia desires the privilege of great power to break rules. However, in order for this to happen, there must be established rules in place. The United States still holds significant influence in setting global rules. The main focus of discussions between Russian and American officials has been on "strategic stability," which covers traditional arms control and concerns about new technologies, such as artificial intelligence in weapons systems, potentially leading to accidental conflict. Wendy Sherman, the deputy secretary of state, has led talks on these issues, which American officials see as a positive aspect of the relationship. Various working groups have been formed, including one to address "novel weapons" like Russia's Poseidon nuclear torpedo. While Pentagon officials view China's nuclear modernization as a long-term threat, Russia is seen as the more immediate challenge. Gen John E Hyten, who is set to retire soon as the vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated to reporters on Thursday that Russia remains the most significant threat due to their 1,550 deployed nuclear weapons. In recent interactions, John Kerry, Biden's climate envoy, visited Moscow in July, while Robert Malley, the special envoy for Iran, held discussions in Moscow in September. Alexei Overchuk, a Russian deputy prime minister, had productive talks with Sherman and Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security adviser, which he described as positive and honest in remarks to Russian media. Putin, with his extensive experience in diplomacy, appreciates such displays of respect. Experts pointed out that he also recently made his own statement: In October, during a conference, when an Iranian attendee asked if Biden's withdrawal from Afghanistan signaled the weakening of US power, Putin responded by supporting Biden's choice and dismissing the idea that the disorderly exit would greatly impact America's reputation in the long run. Putin stated that eventually, things would stabilize without causing significant changes, emphasizing that a nation's appeal is determined by its economic and military strength rather than specific events like the Afghanistan withdrawal. | 2 |
The high expenses of hotels, travel restrictions due to COVID-19, and quarantine regulations are causing worry among activists from developing nations like Dickson, who fear that their voices may not be heard at the COP26 conference in Glasgow from Oct 31-Nov 12. Reuters interviewed activists from countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Uganda. While some had managed to secure funding, visas, and vaccinations to attend the summit, others had given up. Despite the challenges, Dickson remains determined to attend COP26, where he plans to share his firsthand experience of trying to study in extreme heat. He believes it is essential for developed countries to listen to the stories of those most affected by climate change. The 28-year-old representing Nigeria’s Eco Clean Active NGO is still seeking funding for his trip, which he estimates will cost over $4,000 including accommodation and quarantine. He is concerned about the lack of representation from the African continent at the COP summit. The summit’s British hosts are providing some funding assistance and vaccines for delegates in need. Efforts are being made to ensure an inclusive, accessible, and safe summit in Glasgow with COVID mitigation measures in place. Delegates have the option of fairly-priced accommodation provided by government-approved hotel provider MCI. The United Kingdom recently lifted quarantine requirements for 47 countries, saving delegates from countries like South Africa and India the cost of a 10-day hotel quarantine. In the previous month, it was announced that quarantine costs for delegates from countries on the UK's COVID-19 travel "red list" would be covered. This currently includes seven states such as Colombia and Venezuela. However, some potential delegates have reported difficulties accessing this assistance or feel that it is insufficient. There are also opinions that their own governments should be taking more steps to ensure their attendance at the event. Mitzi Jonelle Tan, an activist with the Philippines-based youth movement Fridays for Future, described the challenges of obtaining visas and dealing with quarantine regulations as a nightmare. The youth movement is planning to send approximately 55 delegates from regions that are at risk of climate change to COP26, but Tan mentioned that some individuals had to withdraw before the UK updated its quarantine guidelines. The UK government is preparing for COP26 with an expected attendance of 25,000 people, however, a delegate list has not been released yet. Hotel prices for the 12-day conference on Booking.com start at 291 pounds per night, totaling 3,486 pounds. This high cost deterred 23-year-old Ugandan climate justice advocate Nyombi Morris from attending, as he had hoped to address concerns about EU biomass energy policies on forests. Morris declined the UK's accreditation offer due to lack of financial support, but remains hopeful to confront the issue in the future. Homestay groups are making an effort to offer more affordable accommodation for delegates attending COP26 in Glasgow, but they are struggling to keep up with the high demand. The Human Hotel network has managed to secure beds in local homes for around 600 delegates, but there are thousands more who want to attend but cannot afford the expensive hotel prices in Scotland, according to the network's community manager Michael Yule. Some people are choosing to skip the event due to health risks and travel complications caused by the pandemic, including Li Shuo, a senior climate adviser at Greenpeace China in Beijing, who has attended every COP since 2010 but will be missing this one. "I believe that the reduced number of NGOs attending will highlight the fact that there are voices that are not being heard. Government delegations that do not have direct travel routes to Glasgow are also facing logistical hurdles. For example, the Cook Islands in the South Pacific will not be sending a delegation, and other small island nations are struggling with visa issues. Nobert Nyandire, a climate activist in Nairobi, Kenya, recently received a COVID-19 vaccine through the UK government program. He plans to participate in COP26 to assist with the technical UN negotiations for Kenya's non-profit organization Sustainable Environmental Development Watch. However, he mentioned that some of his colleagues are still waiting for vaccines or have been deterred by the cost." Nyandire expressed uncertainty about the decisions that will be made if the individuals who are directly impacted and should be involved in the negotiations do not attend. | 2 |
It was cautioned by the Socialist government that the European football tournament starting in France on June 10 might face disruptions if they did not compromise. Demonstrators flooded the streets while workers followed the union's call to strike at various facilities like oil refineries, nuclear power plants, and railways. They also set up road blocks and caused disturbances at ports and distribution hubs. Prime Minister Manuel Valls stood firm on not withdrawing the law and vowed to dismantle refinery blockades, with only minor adjustments to the reforms being considered. The CFDT, another major trade union, supported his stance. The ongoing protests against the labor reform that aims to simplify hiring and firing practices were seen as a crucial moment to gauge the strength of the CGT-led opposition. Scores of marchers from the youth protest movement Nuit Debout joined the street marches, which were met with a police presence to prevent potential violence. Recent rallies have resulted in injuries to police and protesters, as well as numerous arrests. The leader of the CGT union, Philippe Martinez, suggested that the government could prevent further disruptions by pausing the implementation of the contested law. The leader of the FO union, Jean-Claude Mailly, called for the prime minister to reconsider the law as protesters took to the streets in Paris. Despite calls for changes, Prime Minister Valls remained firm in his stance, refusing to remove the controversial section of the law that sparked the protests. The national train company SNCF reported that around two-thirds of national, regional, and local train services were running, indicating that the strikes by railworkers were causing less disruption compared to the previous week when half of the trains were not operating. Following police actions to clear blockades at refineries and fuel distribution centers, Prime Minister Valls stated that 20-30 percent of gas stations were either out of fuel or low on certain types of fuel. Transport Minister Alain Vidalies remarked that the situation was improving, with fuel deliveries from depots to gas stations picking up. The number of gas stations experiencing shortages decreased from 140 on Wednesday to 83 on Thursday in the Loire-Atlantique region of western France. The French nuclear power capacity has been reduced by up to five gigawatts due to stoppages, which is approximately six percent of the total production capacity of the country. Despite experts in the power industry stating that the strike at the nuclear plant is unlikely to cause major blackouts because of legal restrictions on strike actions and power imports from other countries, the EDF power utility's operating costs are usually increased by such actions. In addition, with dockers on strike at the port of Marseille in the south, the number of ships waiting at sea to unload oil, gas, and chemicals has increased to 21 from the usual five, according to the port authority. A protest against pension reform in 2010 ended after police dispersed picketers at supply depots and rail workers faced disruptions that affected their paychecks. Oil company Total SA reported that almost all of its fuel distribution depots were operational, but two out of its five refineries in France were currently not in operation, with two more expected to shut down in the near future. The CGT union is facing a more isolated struggle this time around, as the head of the CFDT union, Laurent Berger, who supports the proposed labor reform, called for a more calm and rational approach to the current political and industrial tensions. | 2 |
Germany is not considering changing its approach to Europe's debt crisis, despite increasing opposition to Berlin's austerity policies following elections in Greece and France. Chancellor Angela Merkel dismissed the idea of a major policy shift after Francois Hollande's victory in France and Greek voters punishing ruling parties for spending cuts. Hollande criticized Germany's focus on budget cuts and labor reforms, suggesting a move towards higher-spending policies. Merkel's allies indicated that they expected Hollande to make concessions, as they viewed his promises as risky for the eurozone. Volker Kauder, parliamentary leader of Merkel's conservatives and a close ally, stated that the German government's stance is unequivocal - they will persist in their efforts to save. Following a disappointing state election for her Christian Democrats (CDU), Merkel understands that in order to secure a third term next year, she cannot ignore the demands of German voters who do not want their money to be given to foreigners. Kauder, her supporter, expressed concern that Germans may have to foot the bill for the Socialist victory in France with additional guarantees and money, which he deems unacceptable. Germany is not willing to fund the promises made by France during their elections. French promises such as balancing the budget, hiring new teachers, implementing a 75% tax on million-euro annual incomes, raising the minimum wage, introducing joint euro zone bonds, and giving the European Central Bank a more active role in fostering growth go against Germany's beliefs. Andreas Schockenhoff, a CDU lawmaker, predicts that Hollande will soon commit to stability policies. At a news conference, Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert emphasized that the key to moving forward in Europe was through growth achieved by implementing structural reforms, such as changes to tax and labor rules to enhance trade, rather than relying on debt-funded stimulus plans. Merkel herself stressed that while tactics could be discussed, the overall strategy agreed upon by EU leaders for fiscal consolidation was non-negotiable. She acknowledged that France, under its new president, would bring its own perspective to the debate, but emphasized that both solid finances and growth were essential for progress. Merkel reached out to Hollande, whom she had not previously met, after his victory, and the two leaders had a lengthy conversation with the help of interpreters. Sources informed Reuters that the discussion between Hollande and Merkel was amicable, with Hollande expressing his desire for strong relations. Hollande is scheduled to visit Berlin next week, most likely on May 16, the day after assuming office and embarking on his first foreign trip. Merkel stated that Hollande would be received warmly. Germany has indicated willingness to negotiate a "growth pact" with the new French president, even though the specifics of the agreement may be unclear. This would enable Hollande to claim success in his efforts for a more equitable approach to the crisis. However, it is unlikely that bold new initiatives that could provide a significant boost to struggling economies like Greece and Spain will be implemented. German officials are focused on structural reforms rather than simply boosting growth. They are considering using EU structural funds more flexibly, increasing the capital of the European Investment Bank, and issuing "project bonds" to finance infrastructure projects. Importantly, these measures would not require a significant amount of new funds from Germany, which is why they are seen as acceptable. However, Germany is opposed to the idea of implementing new government stimulus programs, extending deadlines for euro members to reduce deficits, or granting the ECB additional powers to boost growth. A senior German official emphasized that deficit targets will not be relaxed, citing French President Hollande's focus on deficit reduction in his victory speech as a positive sign of cooperation with Germany. Hollande's economic adviser, Michel Sapin, echoed this sentiment by stating that their government does not plan to simply spend money without careful consideration. Officials in Berlin and Brussels are taking a firm stance on Greece, stating that there is no room for the country to back out of or alter the terms of its multi-billion euro rescues by the European bloc and the International Monetary Fund. The recent election results in Greece, which saw a rise in support for extreme parties, have raised concerns about whether Athens will uphold its commitments and sparked speculation about a possible exit from the euro zone. A senior euro zone source stated that Greece must adhere to the program to receive financing from member states, or else face default. The consequences of a default are uncertain, but it would likely result in further hardship for Greek citizens. At the heart of the European Union project, which was established by France and Germany to prevent further wars, President Hollande can count on Italy, the euro zone's third largest economy, for support. Italy, facing economic challenges and budget cuts to satisfy creditors, has backed Hollande's pro-growth agenda. Hollande's approach towards Germany, France's key partner, will be revealed when he announces his government later this month. Jean-Marc Ayrault, a potential prime minister candidate who is familiar with Germany and has shown willingness to reconcile, may be chosen over Martine Aubry, a more traditional Socialist, indicating Hollande's readiness for compromise. Louis Gargour, chief investment officer of hedge fund LNG Capital, expressed curiosity about whether Hollande will begin his presidency by challenging Merkel. He sees this as a clash between Keynesian economics and a focus on growth, versus a prolonged period of austerity that voters are increasingly weary of. | 2 |
A former high-ranking government official known as "Hong Kong's conscience" has won a significant by-election for a seat in the city's legislature, which is considered a crucial vote on democracy in the former British colony. Anson Chan, who previously served as deputy to the last British governor Chris Patten, emerged victorious in the election, providing a boost to the city's pro-democracy political faction following a defeat in district council polls last month. Chan, 67, expressed her belief that the election results demonstrated the desire of Hong Kong residents for universal suffrage by 2012, the year of the next election for the city's leader. She emphasized the importance of genuine democracy in safeguarding freedoms, values, and creating a more compassionate and fair society. Despite enjoying significant autonomy in various areas since being handed back to China by Britain in 1997, Hong Kong has not seen progress in political reform. The city's constitution has universal suffrage as the main goal of political reform, but lacks clarity on when and how it will be implemented. The British did not prioritize this idea until the end of colonial rule under Patten. Chan's victory margin over her rival, Regina Ip, was larger than expected despite polls showing a close race. According to Ma Ngok, an associate professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, middle class residents in Hong Kong still value democracy, even as the economy improves and the city becomes more reliant on China. This is a point that Beijing should consider. Since 1997, the democratic camp's usual support rate of approximately 60 percent has decreased, prompting experts to suggest that they reassess their focus on single-issue campaigning. Chan secured 54 percent of the vote, leading James Sung of City University to urge the pan-democrats to reevaluate their strategy. Sung expressed concern that despite Anson's clear victory, the pan-democratic group may not adequately adapt to the evolving political landscape. Ip's impressive performance, supported by the pro-Beijing camp's formidable election machinery, further highlighted the need for the democratic camp to reconsider their approach. It also signaled the comeback of a politician known for attempting to pass a controversial anti-subversion law in 2003 as security chief. This move led to a massive protest with half a million participants, surprising leaders in Beijing. Analysts believe that Ip, aged 57, is in a good position to run in the upcoming full Legislative Council elections next year. Currently, the chief executive is chosen by an 800-seat committee under Beijing's influence, with half of the legislature being elected by the public and the other half selected by "functional constituencies" representing specific professions and interest groups. | 2 |
A survey conducted by the World Bank in 15 countries, primarily in the developing world such as Bangladesh, revealed that the majority of people are in favor of their governments implementing measures to combat climate change, even if it means incurring significant expenses. | 2 |
And then the situation deteriorated further: Karachi is currently dealing with a swarm of flies. These insects are prevalent in all areas of the city, including neighborhoods, markets, and stores, affecting everyone. They are a nuisance on sidewalks, entering and exiting establishments and vehicles, and landing on various surfaces such as produce and individuals. Flies and flooding often coincide, and Karachi has experienced both. Dr. Seemin Jamali, executive director of the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, described this as the most severe fly infestation she has ever seen. “There are large groups of flies and mosquitoes,” she mentioned. “It’s not just impacting the average person’s life - they are so intimidating; they are harassing people. It’s impossible to walk in a straight line on the street because there are so many flies everywhere.”
In Karachi, Pakistan, on August 28, 2019, flies were seen on produce at a market. The city faced heavy rains, poor drainage, and a garbage issue - leading to an increase in bugs. Despite a fumigation effort by the city, the flies continue to be a problem, causing growing frustration among residents. The city's ongoing issues with garbage and drainage, which have been used as ammunition by political factions for years, are now gaining renewed attention and anger. The recent infestation of bugs in Karachi, Pakistan, is believed to be a result of stagnant rainwater combined with garbage on the streets and waste from the recent Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha. According to experts, the heavy rainfall in the city was not unusual. He explained that the heavy rains in Karachi highlighted the city's ongoing problems with urban development, sewage, solid waste management, and water contamination, as well as the issue of using natural drains as dumping grounds for waste. Ahmed warned that if there are more rain spells like this, the city could become completely dysfunctional. In the Bohri Bazaar in Karachi, flies cover a man's hat, symbolizing the city's current issues with heavy rains, poor drainage, garbage, and now, a widespread presence of bugs. Jamali also noted that the unsanitary conditions in Karachi have led to an increase in various medical ailments and diseases such as malaria, gastroenteritis, typhoid, dengue fever, the chikungunya virus, respiratory disorders, and Congo fever. Flies cover a man's hat in the Bohri Bazaar in Karachi, Pakistan on August 28, 2019. The city's heavy rains, poor drainage, and garbage problem have led to a widespread infestation of bugs. A local resident acknowledged the community's role in the issue, pointing out how sacrificial animal waste is dumped on the streets, contributing to the piles of garbage. Vendors in the bazaar are seen fanning their products in an attempt to keep the flies away, as the insects swarm in and out of shops and settle on various displays. Muhammad Ismail Siddiqui, aged 54, sells traditional sweets such as jalebi and gulab jamun. To protect his products, he covers them with clear plastic. He mentioned that flies are not just a seasonal problem and in the past, the government used to organize fumigation drives early in the day. However, currently, there is no such assistance available, leaving vendors feeling helpless as their businesses suffer. "Anyone who arrives simply observes the presence of flies."
Flies can be seen in a meat market located in the Empress Market in Karachi, Pakistan on August 28, 2019. The city's issues with heavy rainfall, poor drainage, and garbage disposal have led to a widespread infestation of bugs. Politicians in Karachi have been quick to point fingers at each other for the sanitation problems, using it as a rallying cry and a political tool. The largest city in Pakistan is facing a multitude of challenges including heavy rains, poor drainage, and a garbage issue which has now led to a widespread infestation of bugs. The ruling party at the national level, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), is making efforts to strengthen its presence in Karachi in order to challenge the dominance of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) at the provincial level. A local PTI legislator initiated a "Let's Clean Karachi" campaign, indirectly blaming the PPP for the garbage problem. However, PPP senator Saeed Ghani argues that the campaign has only exacerbated the crisis due to poorly managed cleanup efforts. Cleaning up Karachi, where garbage is commonly seen piled up on streets and in vacant lots, would be a challenging and costly task. Karachi, with a population of over 15 million residents, generates approximately 12,000 tons of waste daily. The city's resources and infrastructure have not been able to keep pace with its rapid expansion, population growth, and changing lifestyles. Additionally, Karachi is facing similar climate change challenges as the rest of Pakistan. The city's recent heavy rains, poor drainage systems, and garbage issue have led to an infestation of flies in markets. The management of Karachi is intricate and divided, with waste management and municipal services being handled by separate agencies. Buildings are often built over drains, and certain areas of the city, even upscale neighborhoods, are managed separately as cantonment areas. As a result of heavy rains, poor drainage, and a garbage issue, Karachi is now facing a widespread infestation of bugs. Ahmed, an expert on water issues, expressed concern about the decreasing livability of Karachi. He stated that the city urgently needs a sanitation emergency to address the waste accumulation in streets and drains, and to establish a new sanitation management system. This would require politicians to work together, but the bugs do not seem to respect political boundaries. Ismail Lalpuria, a furniture trader in the Arambagh area of Saddar, complained about the high number of flies affecting his business. He stated that all the political parties are engaged in politics without actually getting any work done. | 2 |
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN has begun distributing agricultural inputs to farmers affected by Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh's coastal areas. The distribution is part of the Emergency 2007 Cyclone Recovery and Restoration Project funded by the World Bank, and has reached beneficiaries in 13 southern Upazilas since starting on July 13. According to a statement from the FAO office in Dhaka, the distribution team is being accompanied by government and FAO officials. FAO representative Ad Spijkers stated that farmers in the south require additional support with modern technologies to rebuild their livelihoods following the impact of cyclones Sidr and Aila. Spijkers also mentioned that assistance for crops, fisheries, and livestock will be provided over the next four years. Spijkers emphasized that, despite being vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters, farm production can be increased by using stress-tolerant seeds and modern equipment such as power tillers and irrigation pumps. He outlined the goals of the ECRRP project, which include promoting balanced fertilizer use, expanding surface water irrigation, and providing training on modern farming techniques through Farmers Field Schools. Spijkers mentioned that the FAO has assisted 1.4 million farmers affected by Sidr and Aila with emergency supplies for crops, fisheries, and livestock. He also mentioned that 12 southern districts will benefit from EU funding for agriculture sectors. Spijkers highlighted that the Bangladeshi government is looking into investment opportunities in the southern delta region to achieve sustainable food security, with the adoption of modern technologies and practices being key to reaching these goals. He highlighted the importance of creating an investment master plan that will effectively link the agriculture and water sectors in the south to promote sustainable development and restore the region's status as the country's main source of food production. The FAO chief also pledged to collaborate with the government and development partners to establish this plan. | 2 |
The climate fund will provide funding for the construction of new cyclone shelters and roads, as well as the renovation of existing shelters in the coastal area. The governing council of the Bangladesh Climate Change Resilience Fund (BCCRF) approved a Tk 1.87 billion project for nine coastal districts at their first meeting. State minister for environment, Hassan Mahmud, announced that the project will initially focus on building 50 cyclone shelters and renovating 40 old ones, as well as constructing approximately 50 km of roads in the coastal districts. Funding will be sought from donor countries and agencies. Mahmud mentioned that Bangladesh had been guaranteed $147 million for the project, with the UK committing $10 million and Australia providing $16 million. Additionally, two other projects were discussed during the meeting: the construction of a cross dam at Noakhali-Urirchar-Sandip for land reclamation and coastal forestation. | 2 |
The book, which takes place in the 1950s and features various interreligious relationships and friendships, has remained popular with readers due to its relatable family dramas and its portrayal of what it means to be a secular, independent citizen. After several failed attempts, the beloved novel has finally been adapted into a new six-part series directed by Mira Nair. The show received praise in Britain for being the network's first prime-time drama filmed in India with an almost entirely Indian cast. However, in India, there has been controversy with members of the ruling Hindu nationalist party calling for a boycott over its portrayal of interfaith romance, leading to an investigation by police. In the United States, the series debuted on Acorn TV without any boycotts. Nair, who grew up in India but is based in New York, humorously referred to the show as "'The Crown' in Brown" due to its grand story and production. However, beyond its scale and prestige, the project holds significant personal and political importance for her. Nair explained that she wanted to create a reflection of the world she felt was drifting further away, particularly drawn to the 1950s as it was the year her parents got married. She noted that this was a time of secularism and idealism, where Indians were taking influence from the English but making it their own. The novel "A Suitable Boy" was written amidst the rise of Hindu nationalist politics in India following violent events, such as the destruction of a mosque in Ayodhya in 1992. The story is set in the aftermath of the 1947 division of India by the British, which led to the creation of Pakistan along religious lines. His method was to write a witty and dramatic comedy about a mother's efforts at Indian matchmaking, creating a complex and emotional story involving four affluent families, forbidden love, religious tolerance, and political tensions after Partition. The novel became a classic portrayal of India's early years. Despite previous unsuccessful attempts to adapt the book, the author personally selected screenwriter Andrew Davies for the project, following his successful adaptation of "War and Peace" in 2016. As the author worked on a sequel, he entrusted his sister to oversee the adaptation's integrity. The BBC approved the series in 2017, with director Nair joining the project the following year. Setting aside the humorous comparisons, the "Suitable" adaptation, though sharing similarities with "The Crown" in terms of drama and scope, did not have a budget as large as the House of Windsor drama. To be able to afford the desired locations and period detail, the production had to reduce the number of episodes from eight to six and simplify the complex narrative of the book. Aradhana Seth emphasized the importance of approaching adaptations with a fresh perspective and leaving the original book aside. Instead of trying to cover all the central characters in the novel, the TV adaptation focuses mainly on two young protagonists, Lata and Maan, who are navigating adulthood during India's first post-independence elections in 1952. While Maan becomes involved in his father's election campaign in the countryside, exposing him to the broader politics of caste and religion, Lata learns to forge her own path despite her mother's insistence on finding her a suitable Hindu husband. Maniktala commented on Lata's youthful energy and her optimistic outlook on life, mentioning that she is a recent university graduate who has yet to fully experience the world. Filming for the project was finished in India in December, and director Nair took a break from editing in London to visit New York in March. However, her plans were disrupted when international borders closed due to the coronavirus. In a video interview, Nair showed how she edited the show with her team from different locations using multiple screens. Even the music for the show was composed remotely, with a full orchestra in Budapest, Hungary, and the composers, Alex Heffes and sitarist Anoushka Shankar, in Los Angeles and London. The show received acclaim in mainstream British press for its representation on the BBC, but South Asian critics were less impressed, criticizing the English dialogue and accents. There was also controversy over why an 84-year-old Welsh writer was chosen to adapt the iconic story of modern India and a young woman's romantic journey. Despite social media backlash, Vikram Seth defended the choice of writer, Andrew Davies, stating that "race should have nothing to do with it." Davies himself explained that he was chosen for his experience in adapting long books, rather than his Indian background. His previous TV adaptations include "Bleak House" and "Pride and Prejudice." He expressed feeling defensive of his position as a writer and emphasized his right to empathize with diverse characters. Raised in a secular Hindu family, Nair advocated for reintegrating the novel's political themes into the screenplay. She aimed to shift the focus away from marriage plots to emphasize the importance of political issues in India. Nair also strove to incorporate Hindi and Urdu dialogue into the script while navigating the constraints of BBC broadcasting. When asked about balancing her Indian perspective with British television standards, she laughed. “It was a delightful struggle, if I may say so.” This is a familiar challenge for Nair, who is experienced in the battles for more accurate and artistic portrayals of South Asians on Western screens. She has created many well-received films about India and its diaspora that focus on social issues rooted in everyday life. According to Amardeep Singh, a professor at Lehigh University, Nair's work on "A Suitable Boy" aligns well with her previous films like "Monsoon Wedding" and "Salaam Bombay!" as she explores the changes in modern India. The series was filmed in real cities, showcasing both their grandeur and decay, to capture a midcentury Indian minimalism. A mansion in Lucknow was transformed into the home of Saeeda Bai, a Muslim singer and courtesan, symbolizing an aristocratic Islamic court culture that was fading at the start of the story. Tabu, one of India's most acclaimed actors, portrays the character of Saeeda in Mira Nair's film. Saeeda's poetry, singing, and beauty captivate Maan, the son of a powerful Hindu politician. Tabu emphasized Mira's focus on portraying women accurately on screen, highlighting Saeeda's ethereal and untouchable presence in society. Maan, played by Khatter, acknowledged the significance of interfaith love stories in a diverse country like India, drawing from his own experience as the son of parents from different religions. The filming concluded just before protests erupted in December over a controversial law excluding Muslim migrants from Indian citizenship. Sadaf Jafar, who portrays Saeeda's servant, Bibbo, took part in the protests and was subsequently arrested and beaten by police during a violent crackdown. Despite warnings from friends, Nair initiated a public campaign for Jafar's release, quoting poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz: "Speak, for your lips are still free." In light of the challenging political climate for artists, Nair's actions may seem risky. The multiculturalism depicted in "A Suitable Boy" appears to be fading, but Maniktala, who plays Lata, finds hope and kindness in Vikram Seth's story still relevant. Reflecting on her own family's experiences during the 1947 partition, Maniktala became emotional, underscoring the enduring impact of historical trauma. She emphasized the significance of pain and the lessons it brings. She expressed concern about the decreasing empathy in society and stressed the importance of remembering our roots. | 2 |
Kim, a Korean American, was upset by the perceived racism in classical music, particularly the marginalization of Asian string players whom he believed were treated like machines. He felt that his white colleagues in the San Francisco orchestra did not prioritize creating a more inclusive environment for Asian, Black, and Latino musicians. Kim, feeling isolated and frustrated, began to reconsider his career and ultimately resigned from his position as the only musician of color on an orchestra committee dedicated to equity and inclusion in March. After the ensemble began performing live again in May, he took a break because he was too upset to play. Kim said he felt ignored despite speaking loudly, which caused him to lose his love for music. Artists from China, Japan, South Korea, and other countries are well-represented in classical music, winning competitions and holding prominent positions in orchestras and conservatories. Renowned performers like Yo-Yo Ma, Midori, and Lang Lang are highly sought after worldwide. However, despite the success of certain Asian artists, it is important to recognize that many of them still experience routine racism and discrimination. In interviews with over 40 orchestra players, soloists, opera singers, composers, students, teachers, and administrators, it was revealed that Asian artists often encounter stereotypes that suggest their music lacks emotion and is merely mechanical. They are often viewed as exotic and are treated as outsiders in a field that has traditionally been dominated by European influences. Additionally, they are accused of disrespecting cultural traditions that do not belong to them and are frequently subjected to online harassment and racial slurs. While Asian artists may be present in classical music, many of them feel invisible and unheard. Nina Shekhar, a 26-year-old Indian American composer, expressed frustration at not always being able to create the type of art she desires, as her music is often incorrectly labeled as having Indian characteristics. The representation of Asian soloists and orchestra musicians has increased in recent years, while Black and Latino artists remain underrepresented. However, Asians are still lacking in areas such as opera, composition, conducting, arts administration, and on the boards of major cultural institutions. Many artists feel that a lack of role models is contributing to the problem, making success in these fields seem unattainable. Xian Zhang, the music director of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, described feeling like an endangered species in the industry. Zhang, a Chinese American conductor, is among a select group of Asian women who are leading prominent orchestras. She has faced challenges in gaining the respect of male musicians, particularly during guest conducting appearances in Europe. The increase in anti-Asian hate crimes has led to demands for more diversity and inclusion in the music industry, with musicians forming advocacy groups and urging cultural organizations to elevate Asian leaders and showcase Asian artists and composers. Classical music has historically been slow to change, with persistent stereotypes about Asians still prevalent. In a recent incident, renowned violinist and conductor Pinchas Zukerman faced backlash for making racist comments about Asians during a Juilliard master class, although he later apologized. Many successful artists in the industry have also experienced the impact of casual racism on their careers. Sumi Jo, a 58-year-old acclaimed coloratura soprano from South Korea, revealed that she had lost several roles due to directors feeling she did not have a white enough appearance. She emphasized that Asian artists must work much harder to succeed in the industry. Artists of Asian descent have faced racist stereotypes and discrimination for decades, dating back to the 1960s and '70s when musicians from Japan, Korea, and other parts of East Asia came to the United States. A Time magazine article from 1967 titled "Invasion From the Orient" exemplified the discriminatory attitudes of that time. Despite these challenges, Asian artists have made progress in gaining recognition in orchestras and concert performances. As of 2014, Asian musicians comprised around 9% of large ensembles in the United States, which is higher than the 6% representation of Asians in the general population. In prestigious orchestras like the New York Philharmonic, Asians make up a third of the musicians. However, in Europe, the representation of Asians in orchestras is much lower, such as in the London Symphony Orchestra where less than 4% of players have Asian roots despite Asians making up more than 18% of London's population. Despite these statistics, racist stereotypes towards Asian artists continue to persist, with some conductors making comments implying that Asian musicians do not fit the classical musician stereotype. According to audition committees, some musicians have been deemed too weak and youthful to be taken seriously, while others have been criticized for having foreign-sounding names. Akiko Tarumoto, the assistant concertmaster of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, mentioned that Asian musicians in the orchestra are sometimes mistaken for each other and referred to in a stereotypical manner. Renowned soloists like Lang Lang have attempted to challenge these stereotypes by embracing a more expressive style in their performances. Yuja Wang, a Chinese pianist, has attempted to mock the stereotype of Asians being robotic, which is partly linked to misconceptions about the Suzuki method of music education. Despite mixed success, Wang collaborated with a comedy duo in a controversial concert at Carnegie Hall in 2019, where crude jokes were made about her sexuality and Chinese background. Wang, 34, revealed in an interview that she was initially typecast as technically skilled but lacking emotional depth early in her career, expressing dissatisfaction with being pigeonholed based on her nationality. While Wang mentioned that she has not often encountered direct racism, she has sometimes felt like an outsider in her industry due to others mispronouncing her name or not taking her seriously. Other well-known soloists such as Lang Lang, Yo-Yo Ma, Midori, and Mitsuko Uchida declined to comment on issues of race. Zubin Mehta, a respected Indian conductor, stated that he has never personally faced racism in the industry and believes that discrimination against Asians is not prevalent. Mehta expressed sympathy for those who feel mistreated but was not aware of any significant issues within the field. Ray Chen, a Taiwanese Australian violinist with a large social media following, has shared that some audience members have been surprised by his ability to play works by composers like Mendelssohn, as they believe music is not in his blood. Although he believes there is now less discrimination in the classical music industry, Chen has faced challenges getting opportunities in Europe earlier in his career due in part to his Asian heritage. Chen, 32, believes that the fear of something new is a major issue in the classical music industry. Female artists of Asian descent also encounter obstacles, such as being stereotyped as exotic and obedient. Soyeon Kate Lee, a 42-year-old Korean American pianist, once had a conductor describe her as "cheap and good" in front of other orchestra leaders and suggest she perform a lap dance. Xenophobic beliefs that Asians are displacing others in the orchestra industry or conservatories are frequently encountered. Yuka Kadota, a violinist with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, described Asian musicians as being viewed as "some sort of invasive species, like carp or murder hornets." Despite progress in orchestras, individuals of Asian descent are still underrepresented in various areas of the music field, such as conducting, composition, and opera. Conductor Mei-Ann Chen, who serves as the music director for the Chicago Sinfonietta and will soon lead Recreation - Grosses Orchester Graz in Austria, shared that she has learned to accept rejection as a common aspect of her career. Chen, a 48-year-old woman from Taiwan, shared that donors and presenters have backed out of meetings and opportunities after discovering she is Asian. Despite facing discrimination, she has persevered. While arts organizations have promised to showcase a broader range of composers in recent years, artists of Asian descent feel they are often excluded, except for special holiday concerts. Analysis of 88 American orchestras by the Institute for Composer Diversity at the State University of New York at Fredonia revealed that works by Asian composers only make up about 2% of pieces planned for the 2021-22 season. The lack of Asian artists in opera is especially noticeable, as opera has historically struggled with a lack of racial diversity. At the Metropolitan Opera, which is the largest performing arts organization in the United States, only 6% of the singers announced for principal roles in the upcoming season are of Asian descent. This is despite Asians making up about 14% of New York City's population. While there is a growing number of Asians in prestigious vocal programs, such as the Manhattan School of Music, they are still underrepresented on opera stages. Nicholas Phan, a 42-year-old tenor of Chinese and Greek heritage, believes that Asians are often perceived as technically skilled but lacking in artistic depth. He was advised by a teacher to use a non-Chinese surname to avoid being pigeonholed as just another Asian singer. Asian opera performers are frequently cast in stereotypical roles, such as Cio-Cio San in "Madama Butterfly" or the princess in "Turandot," which have been criticized for perpetuating racist stereotypes. Despite this, Chinese soprano He Hui enjoys singing Butterfly as one of her signature roles. Mezzo-soprano Nina Yoshida Nelsen, who is half Japanese, has found that most of her performances over the past decade have been in stereotypical Asian roles. Nelsen has spoken out against being tokenized based on her ethnicity, and after doing so, she received three offers for non-stereotypical roles within a week. Advocating for Change "We need to speak out and not be fearful," stated Sou-Chun Su, a Taiwan-born violinist who has been with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra since 1990. Su mentioned the challenges in getting orchestra leaders to address issues raised by Asian musicians, a situation that only changed after the tragic shooting in Atlanta in March. Su emphasized the need for action, stating that it should not have taken such a tragedy to bring about change. The orchestra, in a statement, acknowledged the need to create a more inclusive environment while recognizing that there is still much work to be done. Hyeyung Yoon, a former member of the Chiara String Quartet, founded Asian Musical Voices of America last year to provide a platform for performers of Asian descent to discuss racism and identity. The group holds monthly meetings on Zoom. Yoon mentioned that Asians are often left out of discussions about increasing diversity in classical music because it is assumed that they are already well-represented. She stated that the Asian experience is rarely acknowledged. Miran Kim, a violinist at the Metropolitan Opera, expressed her frustration on social media about performing works with racist stereotypes and criticized the Met for selling a culturally insensitive sleep mask. Kim highlighted the lack of Asian representation in leadership roles. "We are not included in the discussion." There have been some improvements. San Francisco Opera is set to appoint Eun Sun Kim, a South Korean conductor, as its music director next month, making her the first woman to hold this position at a major American opera company. However, there are still major obstacles ahead. David Kim, a violist at the San Francisco Symphony who is reconsidering his career, expressed frustration with disagreements among colleagues regarding public statements on racism. He also believes the orchestra should do more to showcase composers of color. Kim, who has been a member of the ensemble since 2009, expressed feeling a sense of loss as he realizes that his work as a classical musician no longer reflects his values. He is ashamed to be a part of an industry that he sees as lacking self-awareness, entitlement, and respect for social justice. Kim believes that change in the classical music world, which he describes as "racism disguised as art," will not occur until it confronts its history of intolerance. Despite the superficial acceptance of Asians in orchestras and ensembles, Kim questions whether true acceptance exists. | 2 |
According to the Fiji Elections Office (FEO), Bainimarama's Fiji First party received around 50 percent of the votes, while the opposition Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) received nearly 40 percent. Bainimarama, who has been Prime Minister since a coup in 2006, has secured 27 out of 51 seats. SODELPA, with 21 seats, and other losing parties have called for the election results to be withheld due to transparency concerns. This election marked only the second democratic election in Fiji since 2006. Mahendra Chaudhry of the Fiji Labour Party, along with SODELPA, National Federation Party, and Unity Fiji, stated on Facebook Live that the elections supervisor has rushed to release results, compromising procedures and legal requirements. Chaudhry emphasized the need to correct this for the election to be credible. In response, Elections Supervisor Mohammed Saneem defended the transparency of the process, stating that accurate information is being provided in a timely manner to the people of Fiji. The Multinational Observer Group (MOG) supported Saneem's claims and stated that the Fijian election campaign was conducted in accordance with international standards. The MOG acknowledged concerns about the integrity of pre-poll ballots and said they would closely examine the process. They also stated that the legal framework of the electoral system aligns with universal suffrage and non-discrimination principles. Due to heavy rain disrupting the election in some venues earlier in the week, voting in those locations was rescheduled to Saturday, Nov 17 to ensure all eligible votes were counted. | 2 |
Health authorities and the United Nations have criticized the recent measures taken by some US states to impose mandatory quarantines on health workers returning from treating Ebola victims in West Africa, calling them extreme. Washington's top health official dealing with Ebola response warned against treating doctors and nurses who travel to West Africa as "pariahs". The United Nations condemned the restrictions imposed by some US states on health workers returning from Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone, stating that these workers should not be stigmatized and should be supported. American soldiers returning from West Africa are also being isolated, even if they show no symptoms, to ensure the safety of themselves and their communities. The Army isolated a group of soldiers, including Major General Darryl Williams, upon their return to their base in Vicenza, Italy over the weekend. Williams stated that they are staying in a separate area on the base with no contact with the general population or their families. The US military is focused on building treatment units to assist health authorities in combating the Ebola epidemic, rather than interacting with Ebola patients. Dr. Jeff Duchin, Washington State epidemiologist and chairman of the public health committee of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, stated that up to 4,000 U.S. troops may be deployed on the mission and believes that isolation is not appropriate from a public health perspective. This decision goes against established military protocols and was made as the Obama administration tried to discourage quarantines imposed by some states on healthcare workers returning from Ebola-affected countries. US federal health officials have revised guidelines for medical workers returning from West Africa, with Dr. Thomas Frieden calling for isolation of those at highest risk for Ebola but stating that most returning workers will require daily monitoring without isolation. The CDC makes decisions based on science and experience. Frieden stated that guidelines and recommendations are adjusted as science and experience evolve. The new guidelines from the Obama administration are not compulsory, allowing states to implement stricter policies if desired. Some state officials have criticized federal restrictions on travelers from Ebola-affected countries as insufficient and have imposed their own measures. Australia recently imposed a visa ban on individuals from West African countries affected by Ebola, despite not having recorded any cases of the disease. Critics argue that the ban is politically motivated and may cause unnecessary fear and panic. Medical experts emphasize that Ebola is not easily transmitted and is not airborne, but rather spread through direct contact with bodily fluids. Mandatory quarantines have been criticized by various organizations as hindering efforts to combat the disease in West Africa. UN officials stress the importance of treating health workers returning from the region as heroes. | 2 |
The UK's new Disasters and Emergencies Preparedness Programme, worth £40 million, aims to provide training, simulation drills, and new disaster monitoring systems to help countries most vulnerable to natural disasters like Bangladesh, Nepal, Ethiopia, and Sudan prepare for future crises. Justine Greening, UK's International Development Secretary, will announce the programme at the World Bank's Spring Meeting in Washington. Funding will be given to projects that enhance the quality and speed of humanitarian response. Greening will emphasize the need for increased investment in emergency preparedness and resilience, as the global humanitarian system is under increasing pressure. The programme will work with organizations like the START network and the Communicating with Disaster-affected Communities Network to provide training in at-risk countries. Support will also be given to innovative early warning systems to improve disaster communications and coordination. Additionally, a £20 million fund will be set up for UNICEF and the World Food Programme to enhance disaster planning in high-risk areas, benefiting 17 million people, including 14 million women and children in emergencies. The countries that will be involved in this initiative are Afghanistan, Burma, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Chad, Madagascar, Central America, Central Asia, African Great Lakes, and the Syria region. An example of the success of this approach is how Bangladesh reduced casualties from comparable cyclones, from 500,000 in 1972 to 3,400 in 2008. In addition to this, Greening will outline DFID's five main areas for improvement to help alleviate the demand for emergency assistance. These areas include investing more in preparedness and resilience, supporting national and local leadership, allowing recipients to drive aid, and tailoring responses to meet the specific needs of those affected. In order to address the challenges of humanitarian assistance in the 21st Century, new and creative strategies are necessary. This includes utilizing mobile technology, implementing more adaptable shelter solutions, and providing cash instead of standard relief items to allow individuals to prioritize their most pressing needs. Additionally, it is important to focus on long-term planning in areas of extreme poverty to mitigate the effects of recurring crises like food shortages. | 2 |
A member of the ANC in South Africa has filed a legal request to delay the party's conference this month due to disagreements over leadership and violations of the bill of rights, as reported by local media. The tensions between supporters of President Thabo Mbeki and his deputy Jacob Zuma before the Dec 16-20 ANC conference have caused significant divisions within the party, which has historically been known for its discipline and unity. Lawyer and ANC member Votani Majola is seeking an injunction at the Johannesburg High Court to halt the conference, stating that the current environment is not conducive for a successful event. ANC Secretary-General Kgalema Motlanthe confirmed that the party received legal documents on Wednesday related to allegations of bill of rights violations. The article did not provide specific information, and Motlanthe and ANC spokesperson Smuts Ngonyama were unavailable for comment on Thursday. Zuma is currently ahead of Mbeki in the competition for ANC leader, which could pave the way for him to become president in 2009, considering the ANC's strong influence in South African politics. Investors are concerned about Zuma's connections to the left, but a senior aide to Mbeki stated on Wednesday that South Africa's economic strategies are unlikely to undergo significant changes regardless of who wins. The aide also downplayed concerns about potential instability if Zuma becomes the victor. | 2 |
The global competition surrounding electric cars and battery technology is having significant economic implications for automakers, small battery startups, and consumers. As the era of combustion-engine vehicles fades away, car buyers will have a wide variety of electric cars to choose from, each using different types of batteries. The composition of batteries, once a technical matter for engineers, has now become a crucial topic of discussion in the boardrooms of major automakers like General Motors, Toyota, Ford Motor, and Volkswagen, as well as in the White House. With government support, these companies are collaborating with startups to innovate battery technology in order to stay competitive in the electric car revolution. Mastering battery technology could be a key factor in determining which companies succeed in the market, as well as which ones are surpassed by competitors like Tesla. The role of batteries in new cars will impact pricing and could become a defining feature of vehicles. Just as consumers once focused on megapixels in cameras or processing speeds in computer chips, the features of batteries will now be the key factor in determining the success of cars and trucks. According to Ford Motor's chief product platform and operations officer, Hau Thai-Tang, the battery in electric vehicles will be the new basis for brand differentiation. This shift towards prioritizing battery technology is crucial not only for the automotive industry but also for combatting climate change by reducing reliance on oil, coal, and natural gas in the transportation and power sectors. As demand for electric cars rises, automakers are rapidly learning about battery chemistry in order to produce more affordable and efficient batteries. In today's market, batteries can account for 25-33% of the total cost of electric cars, with the majority being produced by a small number of Asian companies. Even Tesla, a leading electric car manufacturer, depends on Asian suppliers and is working towards increasing its own battery manufacturing capabilities. President Joe Biden recently urged companies to shift more of the battery supply chain to the United States, a move that has gained strategic significance following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Volkswagen had to temporarily close its main electric vehicle factory in Germany due to disruptions in the supply of parts from western Ukraine. Large automakers like Stellantis are investing heavily in startups like Factorial Energy, a company with less than 100 employees near Boston, that is developing a new battery technology. Factorial's executives are focused on creating a battery that charges faster, holds more energy, and is less likely to overheat than current batteries. Co-founder Siyu Huang, who started working on battery technology at Cornell University, is committed to delivering the safest battery and improving people's lives. High-ranking officials in the Biden administration have expressed a desire to assist in improving battery technologies in the United States, acknowledging the country's failure to capitalize on domestically created innovations in this field. This has led to the growth of a significant battery industry in China. The Energy Department is exploring the possibility of providing financial support to companies involved in battery manufacturing or the supply of necessary components and minerals. Currently, there are over 10 applications pending with the agency requesting a total of more than $15 million for projects related to batteries. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recently highlighted the negative impact of a lack of innovation on his hometown of South Bend, Indiana, once home to Studebaker, which closed down in the 1960s. He stated that innovation is crucial for the auto industry's past, present, and future, especially with the opportunity for America to lead the electric vehicle revolution. One significant change on the horizon is the shift towards using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries in electric vehicles, which are cheaper and more durable compared to traditional nickel, manganese, and cobalt batteries. Although LFP batteries may not store as much energy per pound, they are gaining popularity due to their cost-effectiveness and longevity. Tesla is planning to use LFP batteries in their shorter-range, lower-priced electric vehicles, while Ford intends to utilize them in certain trucks under their Ion Boost Pro brand for fleet owners. Ford executive Thai-Tang mentioned that these trucks would be ideal for delivery, plumbing, electrical work, and landscaping within a specific geographic area. Ford is partnering with SK Innovation of Korea to produce these batteries but hopes to move much of the manufacturing to the United States to reduce geopolitical and logistical costs. However, it is important to note that the LFP battery is not a comprehensive solution. Vehicles produced by Tesla that utilize these batteries can travel approximately 270 miles on a single charge, while comparable models using nickel and cobalt batteries can reach about 358 miles. Additionally, LFP batteries may experience decreased performance in cold temperatures and require longer charging times. Ford's upcoming electric F-150 pickup truck, with 200,000 reservations already made, will utilize batteries with a higher nickel content. Tesla has announced the production of 1 million cells for their new "4680" battery, which is being used in their Model Y crossovers and is expected to provide a 16 percent increase in range due to its unique honeycomb design, according to CEO Elon Musk. In 2020, he stated that something is difficult until it is uncovered, and then it becomes easy. General Motors (GM) asserts that their Ultium battery cell requires 70% less cobalt compared to the cells found in the Chevrolet Bolt electric hatchback. The company has introduced aluminum into their battery design. The GMC Hummer pickup, recently launched by GM, is the first vehicle to incorporate this new battery technology. GM, in collaboration with South Korea's LG Chem, is constructing a $2.3 billion battery plant in Lordstown, Ohio. It is one of a minimum of 13 significant battery plants being built in the United States. Automakers are increasingly focusing on batteries as a key aspect of their brand, with GM promoting Ultium batteries in commercials. This highlights the need for these batteries to be dependable and safe. GM recently had to recall the Bolt due to a battery issue that could cause fires. Many car manufacturers are looking to decrease their use of cobalt, much of which is sourced from the Congo through Chinese-funded companies or freelance miners, some of whom may utilize child labor. Markus Schäfer, a senior Mercedes executive in charge of research and development, expressed concern over potential human rights violations, including child labor and difficult working conditions for artisan miners. The auto industry is particularly worried about the supply of nickel from Russia. A group of 25 government scientists at Oak Ridge National Lab is working on pushing innovations in electric car batteries. They are testing conventional batteries alongside a cobalt-free alternative to measure their performance over weeks of charging and discharging. Ilias Belharouak, in charge of the Oak Ridge Battery Manufacturing Center, aims to reduce battery costs by up to 50%, extend their range to over 300 miles, and decrease charge times to 15 minutes or less. The Energy Department has provided $200 million to seven national labs to support this effort. In the coming month, the department will hold a virtual event where battery designers will present their ideas to scientists, government officials, and industry leaders. US startups like Factorial Energy, Solid Power, and QuantumScape are working towards transforming battery construction methods, not just altering the materials used. Today's batteries use a liquid solution as an electrolyte to facilitate the flow of electricity. Solid-state batteries, on the other hand, do not require a liquid electrolyte. This makes them lighter, allows them to store more energy, and enables them to charge faster. Additionally, solid-state batteries are less likely to ignite, reducing the need for cooling equipment. Many car manufacturers are investing in solid-state technology, with Volkswagen backing QuantumScape, a company in San Jose, California. BMW and Ford are investing in Solid Power, located in Louisville, Colorado, while GM has put money into SolidEnergy Systems, originating from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and now based in Singapore. The timeline for the widespread availability of solid-state batteries is uncertain, with Stellantis aiming to introduce mass-market vehicles using them by 2026, but other industry executives predicting it may not be widely accessible until around 2030. Whichever automaker is able to bring solid-state batteries to market first stands to gain a significant competitive edge. Huang, co-founder of Factorial, mentioned that she and her business partner, Alex Yu, often work through the night to meet technical benchmarks. She is driven by memories of the pollution she experienced growing up near Shanghai and the company's goal of working towards a fossil-free future. Factorial, which has investments from Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai, has plans to expand globally despite currently operating on a second floor. Employees in laboratories test prototype cells with serious focus and determination. Andrew Miller, the chief operating officer at Benchmark Minerals Intelligence, stated that despite the frenzied activity in the auto industry, there may be a struggle to meet the demand for new batteries due to difficulties in mining and processing all the necessary raw materials, especially lithium. Miller expressed uncertainty about the source of raw materials for the models and plans announced by companies in the next three years. | 2 |
Three years ago, a purchase was made in Exeter with the hope of turning the community into a major center for Canada's legal pot industry. However, despite expectations of creating around 200 jobs and becoming a lucrative venture, it quickly became evident that Canada was already producing more marijuana than the demand. The 1-million-square-foot greenhouse sat empty for two years before being sold for one-third of its original price. This story reflects the overall disappointment in Canada's legal pot industry, with analysts attributing the failure to strict regulations on distribution that limit advertising and marketing opportunities. The slow opening of stores in certain provinces, especially Ontario, is contributing to the delay. Additionally, surveys have indicated that a significant number of Canadians are not inclined to try out this new product. "We were excited about it," remarked Mayor George Finch, as he stood outside Exeter's historic Town Hall. "It seemed almost too good to be true, right? It's unfortunate." When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government legalized marijuana in 2018, the primary intention was to promote a fairer justice system rather than sparking a new major business sector. Despite this, investors saw potential in the industry, leading to a surge in activity on the Toronto Stock Exchange before legalization. This "green rush" resulted in a significant amount of money flowing into companies looking to cater to the Canadian market and expand into opportunities in the US. This led to the renovation and sale of long-unused greenhouses, such as the one in Exeter, and the establishment of new indoor growing facilities nationwide. Newspapers, which had been downsizing, began hiring journalists to cover the emerging marijuana industry. Similar to the plastics industry portrayed in the movie "The Graduate," marijuana was expected to be the next big industry in Canada. The hype around investments in marijuana resembled the dot-com stock boom of the late 1990s, but ultimately ended in a similar collapse. Despite a slight recovery due to increasing legalization in the United States, with New York legalizing marijuana recently and voters in four states supporting legalization in November, one marijuana stock index remains down approximately 70% from its peak in 2018. Even 2 1/2 years after legalization, many marijuana producers in Canada are still facing significant financial losses. A significant new rival is on the horizon with the recent legalization of recreational marijuana use in Mexico. This could make the business environment even more difficult for Canadian growers. Kyle Murray, vice dean at the University of Alberta School of Business, predicts there will likely be a series of industry shakeouts, comparing the current situation to the dot-com boom and subsequent bust. Canopy Growth, Canada's largest producer, reported a loss of CA$1.2 billion in the first nine months of its current operating year. The industry has been hit by layoffs, leading to large producers merging to increase their strength. Many greenhouses in various provinces have permanently closed. Analysts had high hopes for the marijuana market in Canada, expecting a similar spike in sales as seen in the US after the end of Prohibition. However, this growth has not materialized as anticipated, according to Brendan Kennedy, CEO of Tilray, which lost $272 million last year. Kennedy is one of the few leaders in Canada's marijuana industry who have managed to stay afloat despite the challenges of competing with the illicit market due to strict regulations. Most pioneers in the industry have faced losses and stock declines, but Kennedy will continue as a director after the planned merger between Tilray and Aphria, creating potentially the world's largest cannabis company. In Ontario, the original plan was to sell marijuana through government-owned liquor stores, similar to Quebec, but this was canceled by a new Conservative government in 2018, leaving only online sales through a provincial website. The province's plans have changed twice since then, resulting in a somewhat inconsistent rollout of privately owned shops. Despite a recent increase in licensing, Ontario has only approved 575 shops, compared to Alberta's 583 shops, even though Alberta has a smaller population. While initial expectations for marijuana profits were too high, Murray believes a successful business will eventually emerge, as evidenced by the growing number of Ontario shops. The fact that prices are now more in line with street prices should also boost legal sales. Murray expressed that the poor start does not indicate a bad market overall. He believes that despite the initial challenges, some companies will eventually become very successful and could even become global leaders. A positive aspect is seen in British Columbia, where legal marijuana sales in stores increased by 24% from June to October 2020, showing potential growth in the industry. In Quebec, the government-owned cannabis store operator, Société Québécoise du Cannabis, initially reported a loss of nearly CA$5 million in its first fiscal year, but has since turned profitable. Despite disappointment in the domestic market, some of the larger Canadian cannabis growers are looking to foreign markets, especially for medical marijuana, for future growth. However, some analysts are doubtful of this strategy. Brent McKnight, a professor at McMaster University, believes that Mexico's recent push to establish the world's largest legal market could threaten the marijuana industry in Canada. Trade agreements may prevent Canada from restricting imports from Mexico, and Mexico's lower labor costs and warmer climate could give it a competitive edge. He stated that this would cause prices to drop for local growers, as Canada's industry consolidates to stay afloat. Concerns are rising about the impact on smaller businesses as large, publicly traded companies take control. Prior to legalization, some of the first shops to sell marijuana were nonprofit organizations serving medicinal users. Dr. Daniel Werb, a public health researcher, notes that the current system favors large corporations, pushing minority community members out of the industry. Preliminary research has revealed a lack of diversity in leadership among legal suppliers. Vendors in Indigenous communities are also experiencing uncertainty, as they are not typically targeted in police raids but are also operating outside of the legal framework. Ontario has started to issue licenses for shops in some Indigenous communities. There is concern about the lack of diversity and creativity in the legal cannabis industry, with missed opportunities to approach it in a more innovative way. | 2 |
South African President Thabo Mbeki expressed his belief that Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe will resign peacefully, and emphasized the importance of ensuring free and fair elections in Zimbabwe next year. Mbeki, appointed by the Southern African Development Community to lead mediation efforts in Zimbabwe, stated in an interview with the Financial Times on Tuesday that he is optimistic Mugabe will eventually step down. In an interview, it was stated that President Mugabe and the leadership of ZANU-PF believe they are governing a democratic country, evidenced by the presence of an elected opposition and the opposition's ability to run municipal government in Harare and Bulawayo. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) appointed Mbeki as a mediator between Mugabe and the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) following the Zimbabwe government's violent crackdown on political opponents. Despite suggestions that Zimbabwe's neighbors could force change, the South African leader emphasized that they do not possess the means to do so, but suggested that a joint effort by African leaders could lead to a resolution. Mbeki stated that his office has already been in communication with both factions of the MDC and ZANU-PF to establish a framework for negotiations ahead of next year's elections, in which Mugabe has been endorsed as the ZANU-PF candidate. Mbeki mentioned that the upcoming discussions will likely revolve around the MDC's requests for legal and electoral reforms, particularly focusing on the media and security laws that critics argue have been utilized by Mugabe to solidify his control in the country. Mbeki emphasized that based on previous interactions with the MDC, they are expected to bring up issues such as media legislation and laws concerning public meetings. He explained that the next step would involve engaging with ZANU-PF to address these concerns, and eventually reaching a point where both parties would need to come together to agree on actions to ensure a fair and open electoral environment. Morgan Tsvangirai, the main leader of the MDC, expressed his willingness to participate in any election that is guaranteed to be free and fair. However, he emphasized the need for urgent action from Mbeki to establish the necessary conditions. The SADC, facing criticism from the West for overlooking Mugabe's crackdown, is hopeful that Mbeki's appointment will facilitate direct negotiations between Mugabe and the MDC, despite past failed attempts to broker a political agreement. The West accuses Mugabe, who has been in power since Zimbabwe gained independence from Britain in 1980, of ruling authoritatively and mismanaging the economy. Mugabe contends that he is facing repercussions for redistributing white-owned farms to landless blacks. | 2 |
She was trained in soldering and had dreams of a career in electrical work, but for years she was sewing saris for her husband's tailor shop in Pune, India. However, two years ago, she finally found a job in the growing electric vehicle (EV) sector. Her ambition, which had been hindered by motherhood and safety concerns about working in a roadside electrical shop, has now been realized as she works in a factory assembling circuits for EV speedometers. This is her first job as a formal worker with fixed wages. She is part of a small but increasing number of women making a name for themselves in India's EV industry, which is booming due to high sales and government initiatives to reduce emissions. Despite concerns about safety and quality, as well as a lack of charging stations, the demand for EVs is surpassing supply, leading to more job opportunities for women in a traditionally male-dominated auto industry. She expressed her satisfaction with her job, mentioning that she now has fixed hours and financial independence while working on an all-female shop floor at Kinetic Communications, a manufacturer of EV components. She informed the Thomson Reuters Foundation that her soldering skills are excellent and she is hopeful of receiving a promotion, which has always been her aspiration. The factory she works at has a workforce predominantly made up of women, which is uncommon in India where only 20% of women are part of the labor force. India has one of the lowest rates of female participation in the world, with only 47% of women employed or actively seeking work compared to 74% of men. The gender gap in India was worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, with research indicating that nearly half of women lost their jobs in both formal and informal sectors during lockdowns and had not reentered the workforce by the end of 2020. Over the past two years, there has been a significant increase in the sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in India, leading to the emergence of more factories producing them and creating opportunities for women in manufacturing, design, and leadership roles. Unlike traditional manufacturing of internal combustion engine vehicles that rely on heavy machinery, EV companies focus on electronics, assembly, software, and design, which are skill-sets more commonly possessed by women, according to industry analysts. Women's comparative advantage in the EV business is seen as a chance to improve their pay and enhance their status and influence in the workplace by labor rights advocates. With startups in the EV industry introducing new ideas and building their businesses from the ground up, there is an opportunity for women to thrive in roles traditionally dominated by men. For example, companies like Ola Cabs and Piaggio have established all-women shop-floors at their factories in India in the past year. Kinetic Green, Hero Electric, and Ather Energy, along with Esmito Solutions, Kinetic Green, and Mahindra Electric, plan to expand their workforce with a focus on employing more women. In addition, women are leading companies such as Battery-maker Esmito Solutions, EV manufacturing majors Kinetic Green and Mahindra Electric, as well as the federal power ministry's energy transition company. Urdhwareshe, who was one of the few women in India's auto industry in the 1980s, believes that women have the necessary mindset to overcome challenges in a new business, as they prioritize safety and value for money. However, she notes that there are still not enough women in the industry, but those who are present are setting examples for others to follow. REUTERS/Aditi Shah captured an image of Mahindra's e2oPlus, owned by Ola, at an electric vehicle charging station in Nagpur, India on Jan 24, 2018. Prabhjot Kaur, co-founder and CEO of Esmito, a startup that produces batteries and battery-swapping stations for EVs, recalls the challenges of being the only woman in meetings where she had to repeatedly explain her role. Despite assumptions about her being a secretary, Kaur impressed with her presentations. Sulajja Firodia Motwani, founder and CEO of Kinetic Green, has faced similar experiences. After completing her university education and returning from the United States in the mid-1990s, she joined her family's auto business, where she initially faced doubt from the staff. According to Motwani, 51, the staff viewed her as a privileged daughter who would quickly leave. Kaur and Motwani have encountered common challenges for women in the EV corporate world, such as a lack of female restroom facilities and not being taken seriously by colleagues. On a more positive note, many female leaders and workers shared that their parents, especially fathers, were supportive and encouraged them to pursue their goals. Raised in Rajpura, a small town in northern Punjab, Kaur attributes her determination to her experience as the only girl in a karate class of 50 during her teenage years. Kaur initially did not want to go, but her father convinced her to do so. Despite feeling angry at first, she channeled that emotion into becoming the best student. This experience also taught her not to be afraid of her surroundings, including large groups of men. As a child, Motwani spent time in her grandfather's office drawing on the walls. Even after earning a degree from Carnegie Mellon University, she still had to demonstrate her value in the industry. She believes she has rightfully earned her place. Motwani, who was back at work just four days after her baby was born, expressed her gratitude for the platform she has been given. In the early days of her career, she traveled to 200 districts to familiarize herself with the company's dealership network. In addition to female CEOs like Motwani, there are also thousands of women factory workers contributing to India's EV surge, such as Nasreen Banu, who was the first woman in her family to pursue education and secure a job. She works as a production supervisor on the battery assembly line at Ather, a scooter manufacturer, and is determined to challenge stereotypes about what girls can accomplish. Despite the common belief that girls cannot lift a 25 kg battery, she confidently does so and loves her job. She shared her experience during a break at the Ather factory in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. In New Delhi, Mahua Acharya leads Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL), a company under the federal power ministry focused on energy transition. With a degree in environmental management from Yale and a background in green finance, renewable energy, and carbon markets, Acharya sees her role at CESL as an opportunity to increase the presence of electric vehicles on Indian roads. She focuses on developing innovative business models to promote the use of EVs and takes advantage of government incentives and tax benefits to boost production and sales. Currently, there are around a million EVs on Indian roads, accounting for nearly 2% of all vehicles. CESL aims to increase these numbers by expanding charging infrastructure, offering affordable loans, and purchasing public transport vehicles in bulk. However, Acharya faces challenges such as vehicle shortages, limited battery and semiconductor supplies, safety concerns, and a lack of charging stations powered by renewable energy sources. She, as a female leader in the government's promotion of e-mobility, has not personally encountered bias, despite often being the only woman in meetings with 15 men. In her view, women bring attention to issues that men overlook, such as emphasizing the need for EV charging stations to be located in safe areas rather than solely focusing on electricity and land availability. Some in the industry appreciate the unique perspective and insight that women bring. Sohinder Singh Gill, CEO of Hero Electric and director general of the Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles, acknowledges that discussions with women are more flexible compared to the cut-throat nature of conversations with men. During a meeting eight years ago with male representatives from major auto brands discussing the future of EVs in India, Motwani found herself questioning why they were only discussing cars and Tesla. In India, she raised awareness of the fact that 90% of people used two- and three-wheeled vehicles or buses, while only 10% drove cars by speaking out over the chatter. Her persistence led to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers establishing a focus group on two and three-wheelers, with her as the champion. This allowed her to have a role in shaping India's new policy for electric vehicles, focusing on green mobility for the masses. Despite safety concerns as demand for EVs exceeds supply in India, there is excitement in the industry and optimistic predictions that the "sunrise industry" will make up 30% of all vehicle sales by 2030. Those in the policy realm are discussing an extraordinary response from Indian states towards transitioning to electric vehicles, a move that is expected to reduce crude oil import costs and help India reach its goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2070, as announced at the COP26 summit in Glasgow last November. However, despite the positive images of new EV users sharing on social media with their vibrant vehicles, the industry is encountering significant obstacles: from electric scooters catching fire to a shortage of charging stations that is undermining consumer confidence. For instance, Dolly Maurya, a 26-year-old resident of Delhi, took advantage of a state subsidy to purchase an electric rickshaw in April, but she is concerned about driving it in a city with only around 600 charging points. She wonders, "If the battery dies, where can I go? How will I get it home?" Maurya asked about using the vehicle part-time to transport passengers in the capital while she prepares for a government job entrance test. Concerns are increasing among EV users as sales rise. Kaur from Esmito has been monitoring cases of e-scooters catching fire with growing concern. Kaur, who plans to expand her manufacturing at the IIT research park in Chennai, stated that these incidents are alarming as they could harm the industry's growth. She emphasized the need for more research and development to ensure battery safety. "Most companies, more than 400 in fact, import parts and then assemble them," she noted. "We must adjust everything to fit our environment and our specific needs." To establish a customer base from scratch five years ago, Kinetic Green's Motwani teamed up with non-profit organizations and governments to subsidize electric three-wheeler rickshaws as a new source of income for women in insurgency-affected Dantewada in eastern India and bicycle rickshaw pullers in northern Uttar Pradesh. "We presented EVs as a way to make a living with minimal operating costs," said Motwani, seated next to a cabinet adorned with numerous business leadership awards. "They could operate the e-rickshaw and earn 1,000 rupees ($13) a day, and we handled the maintenance," explained Motwani, who believes in the Hindi proverb: "jo dikhta hai woh bikta hai (what you see, sells)". Acharya in the federal government is advocating for state agencies that run public buses to hire more female drivers, pointing out that it is a stable, well-paying job with set hours that many women desire. The Delhi government has recently eliminated height requirements for bus drivers and waived the 15,000 rupee fee for heavy vehicle driving licenses for women in an effort to encourage more women to apply. Additionally, the city has introduced e-rickshaws and designated a third of the subsidized vehicles specifically for women like Maurya. Delhi transport minister Kailash Gahlot stated that the initiative is aimed at providing women with work opportunities and promoting the use of EVs to enhance safety in public transport. The increasing sales of EVs in India are not only driven by financial incentives but also by a growing awareness of climate change, rising fuel costs, and the challenges of mobility in a post-pandemic world. Mumbai resident Rajni Arun Kumar, who previously used public transport, switched to an orange e-scooter for her office commute and transporting her children to their hobby classes due to concerns about crowded spaces during COVID-19. She is currently hoping to have a charging point nearby because the closest one is 3 km (1.86 miles) away and involves a traffic jam. She emphasized the need for people to start taking action to help protect the environment. Companies are aware that women like Kumar play a significant role in making household purchasing decisions. According to Hero Electric's Gill, e-scooters are preferred by more women compared to traditional scooters because they eliminate the need for trips to fuel stations and are easier to handle. In addition to being price-conscious, Indian women consider practical features when making purchases, as stated by Prerana Chaturvedi, co-founder and CEO of Evolet India, an EV startup located near Delhi in Gurgaon. Chaturvedi, a former military aviator in the Indian Air Force, mentioned that the scooter from Ather has a lower seat height and clean edges to prevent scarves and saris from getting tangled. He believes that electric vehicles should be user-friendly like cell phones. In terms of workers' rights, Banu, who works at the Ather factory located in Hosur, appreciates the independence her job provides. Despite originally aspiring to work in a bank or office, her late father encouraged her to join the auto industry by telling her she could do what boys could do. She spoke with tears in her eyes about her "hero" and how she is currently working on batteries, which are crucial components of an electric scooter. Banu, who holds a diploma in electrical engineering and electronics, is one of many who have taken courses at industrial training institutes nationwide before entering the workforce and developing their skills through work experience. According to recruitment agency TeamLease Digital, the hiring of both men and women has increased by over 30% in the past two years, with a projected 40% growth by the end of 2022. The government anticipates that the electric vehicle sector will generate 750,000 jobs in the next five years. Munira Loliwala, business head at TeamLease Digital, estimated that there have been more than 200,000 new job openings in the past six months alone, with a particular demand for female candidates. "It's similar to the early days of mobile phone manufacturing in India, where women were sought after for their ability to handle delicate components with precision due to their smaller, more agile fingers," she explained. The chip manufacturing industry for electric vehicles also requires skilled soldering, welding, and assembly, creating more opportunities for women in both production and design roles. Loliwala noted that women leaders are already serving as role models and inspiring others to join the industry. While the increased job opportunities for women are welcomed, labor and gender activists are calling for electric vehicle companies to implement strong measures to protect labor rights and ensure equal pay. In industries like clothing, which predominantly employ women, female workers are often preferred due to the perception that they are easier and cheaper to hire. Preeti Oza, coordinator of the non-profit Centre for Labour Research and Action, noted that women are typically paid less than men for the same job, which helps keep production costs low and causes less trouble for bosses. She also mentioned that women tend to rush home after work, are less likely to collectively raise demands, and are hesitant to unionize, making them preferred hires. However, Banu, who is determined to continue working after getting married, considers the compact Ather factory her home. She fondly remembers the day she showed her father her skills in dismantling and reassembling an Ather scooter near the bus station. She recounted how he chuckled loudly and expressed concern that the owner could be offended. "He was extremely proud of me," she added. | 2 |
Every year in the fall, on the third Thursday of November, wine producers from the Beaujolais region release the first bottles of the year's harvest as part of the annual "Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé" campaign that began in the 1960s. Alain Fontaine, the owner of Le Mesturet, described the release day as a day of rebirth, despite the challenges faced in recent times. He offered complimentary glasses of Beaujolais outside his restaurant in Paris, where locals enjoyed the wine, even though it is often seen as cheap. Felix, an employee at the French national library, described Beaujolais as a pleasant and affordable wine, though not the most prestigious. Wine producers in France are feeling less optimistic due to the country's expected lowest wine production on record, following damage to vineyards from spring frost, hail, and disease. The farm ministry predicts total production to be 25% below the average of the last five years, with the Burgundy-Beaujolais region experiencing a nearly 50% decrease. Despite the challenging weather conditions and the need for increased manual labor, resulting in a 30% loss of the harvest, winemaker Julien Revillon in Villie-Morgon remains committed to the Beaujolais tradition as a way for people to come together after months of isolation. During challenging times, individuals tend to hold onto customs. Despite being in a war or a pandemic, there is still a desire to celebrate holidays like Christmas and events like the release of Beaujolais Nouveau. Ninety-year-old Parisian Marie-Francoise, who initially thought the new Beaujolais was too acidic, changed her opinion after trying it again. She now believes it is an excellent wine, the best Beaujolais there is. She stated.. | 2 |
At 40 years old, Hamila is an entrepreneur and the owner of a Moroccan packaged food business in London. She fondly recalls the excitement of the holiday when she and her father would bring a whole sheep back to their apartment. The women in the family would gather to clean the organs and trotters in the bathtub, following a specific order for eating the meat. The first day of Eid al-Adha was reserved for the organs, the second day for the head and trotters, and only on the third day, after the meat had rested, would they make kebabs, tagines, or grills. Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the two major Islamic holidays and occurs during the Hajj pilgrimage. It marks the story of prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as requested by Allah. However, according to the Quran, God provided a ram for Ibrahim to sacrifice instead. Traditionally, people in the Islamic world have sacrificed a lamb, goat, cow, or camel at home and divided it among the needy, friends, relatives, and immediate family. However, home butchering of animals is now prohibited in many countries, including parts of the Arab world where a significant portion of the Muslim population resides. Meat remains an important aspect of Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid al-Lahm, or Festival of Meat, for many Arabs. However, as traditional celebrations begin to fade, particularly for Arab Muslims living away from their homeland, people are finding new ways to honor the holiday, which is known for its emphasis on food. Areej Bazzari, a digital marketing director in San Francisco who grew up in Saudi Arabia and Jordan, recalls how breakfast was the highlight of Eid al-Adha in her family, with a variety of offal dishes being served in different ways. Laughing, Bazzari remembered how her family had different teams for cooking the meals. "Team liver, team kidneys — that's how Eid at home looks like for me, with all of us arguing over who gets to sit in front of which plate." Since her Palestinian family relocated to Sonoma County in 2000, they have seldom cooked organ meat, as it is not readily available fresh there. If her father manages to find fresh heart or kidneys, they will incorporate it with other meats to keep the tradition alive, but not as abundantly as they did in Saudi Arabia. "We're not going to a slaughterhouse," she explained. "This is more like Dad going to Whole Foods." Bazzari, 38, values the way her Eid al-Adha celebrations have changed over time. "I appreciate being able to draw on childhood memories and various cultural traditions I am learning from friends here," she said. Eid al-Adha celebrations for her now typically involve a large gathering of extended family and friends, complete with decorations and a variety of dishes, including unique ones like fattehs, shushbarak, and manaqeesh. Dessert is always a special treat from her parents' trips to Saudi Arabia or Jordan, with traditional holiday cookies like ka'ak and ma'amoul being a must-have on the table. This year, her dessert spread will include cookies filled with dates or nuts. However, her main dish for the upcoming holiday season will be mechoui, a leg of lamb slow-roasted to perfection - a staple in her feast not only for its delicious taste but also for its symbolic significance. Accompanying dishes will mainly consist of salads and vegetables to keep the meal light, considering it is the middle of summer. Eid al-Adha is tentatively scheduled for July 20 this year, as Islamic holidays are determined by the Hijri lunar calendar and the sighting of a new moon. As a result, the dates of these holidays shift through the seasons over time. Just a decade or two ago, Eid al-Adha was observed in cooler weather. In the last five years, the holiday has coincided with summer, which has affected the types of food chosen. Hamila values the changes from the usual traditions and believes that traditions should evolve. She believes that the most important thing is to fully participate in the festivities and feel the spirit of the occasion. Sumaya Obaid, a chef and TV personality from the United Arab Emirates, remembers that when she was young, neighbors of all backgrounds would come together to sacrifice sheep for Eid al-Adha, then clean and share the meat. She mentioned that with the change in laws and the end of slaughtering animals at home, the sense of community that came with collaborating, sharing, butchering, and cleaning together has disappeared. However, other aspects of Eid celebration, such as Machboos el-Eid, remain unchanged in the Emirates. The spice-rubbed and roasted lamb dish is still a central part of the holiday, with each family having their own variation of the saffron-laced spice mixture. Women take pride in selecting fresh spices at the market before the celebration to grind and prepare at home, making each blend unique. "I will only give this to my daughter as it is a highly secretive family recipe. The essence of Eid al-Adha meals is generosity, even though meat is the main focus. Hopefully one day we can share our family's machboos with you," Obaid added quickly. The recipe for Ka'ak el Eid makes about 35 round cookies and takes a total time of 1 3/4 hours, plus overnight resting and cooling. The ingredients for the dough include semolina flour, all-purpose flour, butter, vegetable oil, nigella seeds, aniseed, fennel seeds, baking powder, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and warm water. The filling consists of date paste and ground cinnamon. To prepare the dough, mix the dry ingredients with the butter and oil until it resembles wet sand." Cover and let sit at room temperature overnight or for a few hours to allow the semolina to soften and absorb the butter and oil. The next day or later, add nigella seeds, aniseed, fennel, baking powder, yeast, sugar, and salt to the semolina mixture and mix gently with your hands. Add 1/2 cup warm water and knead gently for no more than 2 minutes to finish the dough. The combination may still be crumbly at this stage. Slowly pour the remaining 1/2 cup of water into the mixture, adding 1 tablespoon at a time, and knead for about 1 minute after each addition, being careful not to over-knead. Repeat until you can gather a lump of dough in your hand and it stays intact. The amount of water needed may vary depending on factors like weather or type of flour. The goal is to have a dough clump easily come together and not break apart when rolled into a log. Cover the mixture and allow it to sit while you get the filling ready. Line a medium baking sheet with plastic wrap or parchment paper and grease it with oil. Pour some oil into a small bowl to use for greasing your hands as needed. Combine the date paste and cinnamon in a bowl and knead with greased hands until well mixed. Grease your hands and divide the filling into approximately 35 portions, each the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a string slightly thinner than your finger and about 4 to 5 inches long on a flat surface. Then, place them on a greased baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap until ready to use. These can sit at room temperature for a couple of days without any problem. Step 6: Get ready to bake the cookies by preheating the oven to 400 degrees and lining a few baking sheets with parchment paper. Take a portion of dough about the size of a golf ball, keeping the remaining dough covered to prevent it from drying out, and roll it into a 4-inch long sausage shape either between your palms or on a flat surface. Gently flatten the dough with your fingertips and place one of the date strings on top, trimming it as needed to fit the dough. Any pieces that have been cut off can be used to lengthen shorter pieces or combined to create more filling strings. Encase the dough around the date filling, then roll it on a flat surface to form a slightly elongated, thin sausage shape measuring about 8 to 9 inches in length. Bring one end over the other slightly to create a circular shape. Use a thin object (like a chopstick) to press down through both ends where they overlap, ensuring they are securely attached and will not separate while baking. Put the dough and filling on the baking sheet that has been lined and prepared. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling are used. Bake the cookies until they are a very light golden brown, which should take about 15 to 18 minutes. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they have cooled, store them in an airtight container. Cookies can be stored for 2 to 3 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer. Date paste can be easily found in Middle Eastern grocery stores or made at home by kneading soft Medjool dates with olive oil. Avoid using a food processor to prevent stickiness. The recipe for Sajiyeh yields 2 to 4 servings and takes a total of 40 minutes to prepare. The ingredients include olive oil, beef, Lebanese seven-spice blend, salt, onion, red bell pepper, jalapeños or green bell pepper, and bread or tortillas for serving. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron pan over medium heat until it is shimmering and hot, but not smoking. Then, add the strips of meat, spice blend, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook while stirring occasionally until all the released water evaporates and the meat begins to brown all over, which should take about 10 minutes. After the meat is browned, pour in 1/2 cup of water, cover the pan, and allow it to cook until the water evaporates again and oil visibly releases, which should take approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Repeat the procedure: Include an additional 1/2 cup of water, cover, and cook until the water disappears and oil is released. Then, add the onion, pepper, jalapeños, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook without a lid, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown and the meat begins to tenderize, approximately 4 minutes. Include an additional 1/2 cup of water and continue cooking without a cover, stirring occasionally, until some of the water has evaporated and a thick sauce coats the meat and vegetables, which should take about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and serve right away with bread to soak up the meat and gravy. A helpful tip is to substitute the seven-spice blend with 1/2 teaspoon each of ground allspice, ground cinnamon, and ground black pepper, along with 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin and a little bit of nutmeg. (©2021 The New York Times Company) | 2 |
Legal experts specializing in civil rights stated on Monday that federal prosecutors are unlikely to pursue charges against George Zimmerman, a white and Hispanic man who was acquitted of second-degree murder and manslaughter in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin, an unarmed black teenager. The jury in Sanford, Florida found Zimmerman not guilty, as his defense argued that he shot Martin in self-defense. In both state and federal courts, a criminal conviction requires guilt to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt by a jury or judge. The jury's verdict indicated that they did not believe Zimmerman acted with malice or racial bias when he shot Martin. Attorney General Eric Holder stated that the Justice Department has not yet made a decision on whether to pursue federal civil rights charges against Zimmerman. The case involving Martin is seen as an opportunity for the federal government to enforce civil rights, similar to past cases such as the Rodney King beating and the Sean Bell shooting. Al Sharpton and other preachers planned to hold a news conference to push for Zimmerman's prosecution, believing he racially profiled Martin before fatally shooting him. The federal prosecutors would potentially use a hate crimes law passed in 2009 to charge Zimmerman. It is necessary for prosecutors to demonstrate that someone caused physical harm to another person "due to the actual or perceived race" of the victim, a requirement that is clear but can be difficult to prove. Showing the perpetrator's mindset is the challenging aspect, as the statute mandates that there was a racial motive and the defendant was thinking in racial terms, according to William Yeomans, a former Justice Department civil rights lawyer. Typically, the government presents evidence like the attacker's immediate use of racial slurs or a history of planning to target a specific race, as stated by Samuel Bagenstos, who worked in the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division under President Barack Obama. Bagenstos explained, "In these types of cases, defendants often make statements during the attack that explicitly reference the victim's race. This constitutes stronger evidence than what has been presented against Zimmerman so far." Before the incident with Martin, Zimmerman mentioned to a police dispatcher that Martin "looks black" only after being asked about his race. A juror from Zimmerman's state trial stated to CNN that she believed Zimmerman did not racially profile Martin. She mentioned that race was not a factor in their decision. Unlike the beating of King by Los Angeles police officers, there is no video evidence of the encounter. The Justice Department used the video footage heavily in the federal trial of the officers after they were acquitted of state charges. Prosecutors carefully examined the baton strikes against King, focusing on those that occurred after he was already subdued in the video. The second jury convicted two officers, which helped to ease tensions in the racially charged climate in the US, which had led to riots. Wayne Budd, who oversaw the prosecution of the officers, expressed doubts about proving racial bias in Zimmerman's case based on the evidence available. Terree Bowers, the US attorney in Los Angeles during the second trial, mentioned that prosecutors were able to improve their case the second time around. He expressed uncertainty about the Justice Department's ability to take action against Zimmerman and mentioned the challenges they would face in proving racial motivation. Holder, who is the chief US law enforcement official and was appointed by Obama, discussed the high bar required to bring federal charges in the case of Martin's death. The Justice Department also acknowledged the difficulties prosecutors encounter due to limited civil rights laws. One benefit for prosecutors is that the hate-crimes law was changed in 2009 to remove the need to prove a connection between the crime and a federally protected activity. A Justice Department spokesperson did not confirm on Monday whether prosecutors had called a federal grand jury to review evidence on Zimmerman, which would suggest increased action on their part. | 2 |
Myanmar's junta continued to make arrests on Wednesday following the departure of a U.N. envoy who had been trying to stop the violent crackdown on protests. Witnesses reported seeing at least eight truckloads of prisoners being taken from downtown Yangon, where last week's protests had taken place. In one house near the Shwedagon Pagoda, only a 13-year-old girl was left after her parents were arrested. She said they were warned not to try to escape, as the authorities might return. The crackdown persisted despite some optimism about progress made by U.N. special envoy Ibrahim Gambari in convincing junta chief Than Shwe to ease his control and start discussions with detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, whom he met with twice. Singapore, as the chair of ASEAN, expressed satisfaction with the cooperation from the Myanmar government towards Mr. Gambari. Although Gambari was expected to return to Myanmar in early November, there was uncertainty about how his efforts and international pressure could influence the junta's policies. The junta is known for ignoring outside pressure and rarely allowing U.N. officials in, so little was expected to result from the situation. Georgetown University expert David Steinberg believes that the top leadership in Myanmar is deeply entrenched in their beliefs and unlikely to change. He mentioned that they often claim to be on the path to democracy and question what more is needed, referring to the junta's "seven-step road to democracy". The completion of the first step in September marked the end of a 14-year national convention, which many critics argue will solidify military rule and prevent Suu Kyi from holding office. The recent protests, the largest challenge to the junta in nearly two decades, started with small demonstrations against rising fuel prices and escalated after troops fired warning shots at a group of monks. The junta claims that they used minimal force to counter the monk-led protests, which spanned five city blocks, and that Yangon and other cities have returned to normal. They reported 10 deaths and dismissed reports of higher casualties and atrocities as untrue, but Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer agreed with other Western governments that the actual number of casualties was likely much higher. Despite this, the junta believes they have successfully quelled the uprising and have lifted barricades around the Shwedagon and Sule pagodas, the main protest sites, and reduced the overnight curfew by two hours. Additionally, 80 monks and 149 women suspected to be nuns who were detained in widespread raids last week have been released. Five local journalists, including one from Japan's Tokyo Shimbun newspaper, were released, but there remained a strong military presence in the streets of Yangon and Mandalay. Witnesses reported that armed gangs were searching homes for hiding monks, causing fear among the residents. The international community continued to condemn the junta's violent response to peaceful protests, with the U.N. Human Rights Council, including China, calling for the regime to allow the U.N. human rights envoy to Myanmar to visit for the first time in four years. He stated that thousands of individuals had been arrested. Pinheiro emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth about the events. The council passed a resolution condemning beatings, killings, and detentions. Myanmar accused powerful nations of using the hearing for political gain. | 2 |
The second-most impacted country by the pandemic has decided to resume international passenger flights from high-risk countries while implementing stricter border screening measures. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of monitoring all international arrivals, testing according to guidelines, and focusing on countries identified as high-risk after the WHO declared the new variant of COVID-19 to be concerning. The WHO warned that the Omicron variant, first identified in South Africa, may spread more rapidly than other strains. India has seen a decrease in new cases due to increased vaccinations and immunity from previous infections, with daily cases dropping by half since September. The latest report indicated 8,318 new cases within the past day. However, the emergence of a new variant, characterized by a spike protein that differs significantly from the strain current vaccines target, has sparked concern worldwide and caused financial markets to react nervously. Modi emphasized the importance of increased vigilance and adherence to preventative measures like mask-wearing and social distancing. He stressed the need for a proactive approach in response to the new variant and instructed for continued intensive containment and surveillance in areas with high case numbers. Additionally, he called for technical assistance to be provided to states experiencing a surge in cases. Modi instructed officials to speed up the administration of second doses, as reported. | 2 |
However, the new initiative, prompted by Germany's recent announcement that Chancellor Angela Merkel's mobile phone had been monitored, will face significant challenges if it is to be successful. It may not be effective for Germans accessing websites hosted on servers outside the country, such as Facebook or Google. Additionally, Deutsche Telekom may struggle to gain the support of other broadband providers who are hesitant to share network information. Furthermore, the initiative goes against the current structure of the Internet, where global traffic flows freely between networks without regard for national borders. If more countries adopt similar measures, it could lead to a fragmented Internet, undermining the openness and efficiency that have fueled its economic growth. In countries like China and Iran, governments control internet traffic by using firewalls to block certain websites like Facebook and Twitter. Professor Torsten Gerpott from the University of Duisburg-Essen noted that it is unusual for developed countries to have their internet traffic pass through servers in other countries. Deutsche Telekom, partially owned by the government, has received support for its efforts to provide customers with more options, such as encrypting emails and routing traffic through domestic servers. In Germany, government surveillance is a touchy topic due to the country's strict privacy laws and the history of eavesdropping by the Stasi secret police in East Germany. Chancellor Merkel has called for a "no-spying" agreement with the US and France by the end of the year. However, experts believe that the recent discussions may not lead to significant changes, as most of Germany's internet traffic already stays within its borders. Additionally, Deutsche Telekom's approach of charging other networks for carrying traffic conflicts with the goal of keeping data within Germany. It may be more cost-effective or even free for German data traffic to pass through London or Amsterdam, where it could be accessed by foreign intelligence agencies. Thomas Kremer, the executive responsible for data privacy and legal matters at the German operator, stated that the group must establish connection agreements with three more operators to enable national routing. If this does not happen, he suggested the possibility of a legislative solution. Kremer emphasized that traffic should not be routed through other countries as long as both the sender and receiver are within the Schengen area or Germany. A spokesperson for Telefonica Germany mentioned that they are in preliminary discussions with other organizations regarding national routing. A representative from Vodafone stated that they are currently assessing the Deutsche Telekom proposal to determine if and how it will be implemented. Despite Deutsche Telekom's portrayal of themselves as a trustworthy protector of user data, their history with privacy issues is a mixed one. In a scandal in 2008 known as Telekomgate, Klaus Trzeschan, a security manager at the company, was sentenced to three and a half years in jail for his involvement in monitoring phone calls of the firm's executives, board members, and journalists. A spokesperson from Deutsche Telekom claimed that this incident prompted the company to prioritize privacy and security measures in recent years, leading them to become a leading company in the industry in terms of customer trust. Data centers are key components of online services, as they house the routers and switches that direct data traffic. Popular web companies often rely on a small number of large data centers to power their operations. These data centers are strategically located based on factors such as cheap power, cool climates, and high-speed broadband networks, rather than the location of the company's customers. For example, a Munich resident using Facebook to chat with a friend in Berlin may have their data routed through one of the company's massive data centers located thousands of kilometers away. Different functions of a website, such as games, messaging, and wall posts, are often distributed among multiple data centers to enhance efficiency. Similarly, emails sent between two German residents using Google's Gmail may be routed through data centers in other countries such as Finland, Belgium, or Ireland. The experts believe that the only way to bring about a change in this situation would be for Germany to implement a policy mandating local hosting of websites, a drastic measure that German leaders have not yet been willing to support. Deutsche Telekom has not confirmed whether they will advocate for this approach. In response to reports of U.S. surveillance, Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff is working on legislation that would require internet companies like Google and Facebook to store data gathered from users within the country. Another potential solution is for European leaders to strengthen a data-privacy law that has been in development for nearly two years. Although a tougher version of the law was recently approved by the European Parliament, it still needs to be ratified by member states. France and Germany might be able to convince member states to accelerate discussions to finalize the new data regulations by 2015. According to Deutsche Telekom's Kremer, the new legislation could potentially enhance customer safety while still allowing them to access any internet services globally. | 2 |
According to a recent opinion poll conducted on the eve of the 190-nation talks in Copenhagen to address climate change, world concern about climate change has decreased over the past two years. The Nielsen/Oxford University survey of over 27,000 Internet users in 54 countries revealed that 37 percent were "very concerned" about climate change, a drop from 41 percent in a similar poll conducted two years ago. The poll, conducted in October, attributed this decline to the global economic slowdown. In the United States, the number of individuals who were "very concerned" about climate change dropped from 34 percent to 25 percent. President Barack Obama is aiming to reduce US greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from the burning of fossil fuels. He plans to attend a meeting in Copenhagen at the end of the Dec. 7-18 gathering along with over 100 world leaders to work towards a new UN agreement. A survey showed that China, the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, saw an increase in the number of people who are very concerned about the issue, rising from 30 to 36 percent. The highest levels of concern were found in Latin America and Asian-Pacific countries, with the Philippines leading at 78 percent, likely due to the impact of Typhoon Ketsana in September. The survey did not include most African countries. Eastern Europe had the lowest level of concern for global warming, which is attributed to human emissions of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels. According to Jonathan Banks, Business Insights Director Europe of the Nielsen Co., Estonia had the lowest level of concern about climate change at just 10 percent. He mentioned that economic issues had temporarily overshadowed climate change concerns, but with the focus on the Copenhagen summit, the issue is expected to gain more attention again. The survey found that globally, air and water pollution, followed by climate change, were the top environmental concerns for people around the world. | 2 |
Britain expressed strong disapproval of the increasing violence against opposition supporters in Zimbabwe after the recent elections and urged for a United Nations mission to investigate human rights violations. Prime Minister Gordon Brown is pushing for an arms embargo on President Robert Mugabe's ruling party and stated that Britain will increase diplomatic efforts leading up to a UN Security Council meeting regarding the situation in Zimbabwe. Brown emphasized the importance of international action and called for a UN investigation into the violence and human rights abuses in the country. The opposition Movement for Democratic Change has stated that the international community should condemn the climate of fear in Zimbabwe. They believe they won the March 29 parliamentary and presidential elections, with a partial recount confirming their victory over ZANU-PF. Despite calls for a re-run by Mugabe, the official results of the presidential vote have not been released. Brown emphasized the need for international monitors and adherence to SADC and AU principles in the event of a second round. He also praised the UN Secretary General, African leaders, Europe, the US, and others who support the restoration of democracy in Zimbabwe. "We are prepared, along with others, to assist in the reconstruction of Zimbabwe once democracy is restored. I promise that Britain will take a leading role in this endeavor." | 2 |
With the rise to power of Prince Mohammad bin Salman, the kingdom has experienced an expansion in women's rights, such as allowing women to attend mixed public sporting events and granting them the right to drive cars starting this summer. These changes have been seen as evidence of a new progressive direction towards modernization in the deeply conservative Muslim kingdom, but the nation is still criticized for imposing restrictions on women. Prince Mohammed emphasized that the laws of sharia require women to dress modestly and respectfully, similar to men, but did not specifically mention the requirement for a black abaya or head cover. Women have the complete freedom to choose their attire, as stated by a senior cleric last month. This includes wearing a modest and respectable outfit, such as an abaya, but it is not mandatory. The enforcement of women's dress code in Saudi Arabia, which currently requires women to wear abayas and sometimes cover their hair and faces, may be changing. There is no written legal code accompanying the texts of sharia in the kingdom. However, since the 32-year-old crown prince took power after years of elderly rulers, Saudi Arabia has experienced a cautious new era of social freedoms. Women in the kingdom have started wearing more colorful abayas, such as light blues and pinks, as well as open abayas over long skirts or jeans in some regions. This shift in women's fashion is seen as a result of the increased rights for women under the leadership of Prince Mohammad bin Salman. A group of women in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia celebrated International Women's Day by going for a jog, exercising their newfound freedom to do so. Despite this progress, activists criticize the country's guardianship system which still requires women to obtain permission from a male family member for certain activities. The UN has urged Saudi Arabia to end discriminatory practices against women, such as male guardianship, and ensure they have full access to justice. | 2 |
The Puja started on Tuesday at the well-known Durgabari temple, located in front of the Ujjayanta Palace, which is eastern India's largest of its kind. Part of the palace is still home to the former princely rulers, while the rest has been transformed into northeast India's largest museum dedicated to preserving the history, life, and culture of the region. Tripura is unique in that its state government, regardless of political party, has consistently funded this Hindu religious festival since the state's merger with India. After 517 years of rule by 184 kings, the princely state came under Indian government control in 1949. The merger agreement required the Tripura government to continue sponsoring temples established by the Hindu rulers, a tradition that has continued for over six decades. A specialized division, Debarchan Vibhag, overseen by district magistrates in four of Tripura's eight districts, is responsible for funding the maintenance of several temples, including Durgabari. Prior to the five-day worship of Durga and her children, a procession led by the head priest, accompanied by Tripura Police, seeks permission from the former royal family at the palace to commence the puja at Durgabari. Nagendra Debbarma, a senior official, noted that many ancient traditions are no longer observed. Debbarma mentioned that during the five-day festival at Durgabari, a young buffalo, several goats, and pigeons are sacrificed in front of thousands of devotees, all paid for by the government. Maneka Gandhi from People For Animals (PFA) wrote to district magistrates asking them to stop the cruel killing of animals during religious festivities at temples. The district magistrate of West Tripura used to report to the former royal family about the preparations at Durgabari, but this practice has now been discontinued. The chief priest of Durgabari temple, Dulal Bhattacharjee, explained that the final day of the festival, Dashami, is when the real splendor is on display. The idols of Durgabari lead the procession and are immersed at Dashamighat with full state honors, accompanied by a police band playing the national song. Historian Roy, known for his numerous books on the history of the royal era, stated that the Durga Puja, which has been celebrated for over 200 years, stands out because its prasad includes a variety of offerings such as meat, fish, eggs, and fruits. While the Durgabari temple's celebration of Durga Puja remains a major attraction for various reasons, community pujas organized by clubs and families also garner significant attention. The decorations at pandals often revolve around traditional themes, current issues, and historical events, with Indian temples and historical landmarks being prominently featured. Additionally, pandals are being used to showcase various topics such as India's mission to Mars, climate change, environmental protection, crimes against women, ancient Indian epics, and the culture of Hindu Bengalis and tribals. Various landmarks such as Tripura's royal palace, Kolkata's Birla Planetarium, Guwahati's Kamakhya Temple, Konarak's Sun Temple, Kashmir's scenic beauty, and a Buddhist temple in China are also being depicted through puja marquees. In Tripura alone, there are a total of 2,335 community and family pujas being organized, with 1,023 in urban areas and 1,312 in rural areas, and approximately 550 pujas taking place in and around Agartala. | 2 |
Paris is currently experiencing a loss, with all restaurants closed and a curfew in place that has silenced its nightlife. The beloved tradition of the aperitif at cafes has been lost, leading to a sense of gloom in the city. Taboos are being broken as people resort to eating sandwiches on benches in the rain. They now opt for takeout through "click-and-collect" services instead of dining out early, which they see as a negative American influence. They sadly observe the outdated menus of closed restaurants offering traditional French dishes. The city has lost its vibrant atmosphere with the disappearance of museums, tourist attractions, outdoor terraces, movie theaters, and the lively energy of its streets. Instead, a melancholy mood has taken over the city, akin to a dense fog. In 1983, Saul Bellow described how the gloom in Paris is not just due to the weather, but also has a spiritual impact on people's character, opinions, and judgment. Despite this, Bellow would still indulge in sauvignon blanc and charcuterie when feeling down during the dreary Parisian winter. Now, in the midst of a damp and COVID-19-stricken Paris, the city's empty streets resemble a tedious argument, with sunlight making only brief appearances, leaving doubts about its reality. New York does not experience drizzle or long periods of gray skies like Paris. The adjustment has been difficult, especially in a Paris that feels devoid of its essence. Alain Ducasse, the famous chef, described the current atmosphere as incredibly sad and imprisoning. The French are struggling without the social aspects of life they are used to, such as meeting for drinks at a cafe or exchanging kisses. The traditional "bisou" on both cheeks as a greeting or goodbye is no longer a part of daily life. With over 74,000 deaths in France due to the pandemic, everyone is aware of the restrictions in place. Nearly every major city worldwide has experienced loss of life, employment, and normalcy. Paris is not the only city facing hardships. However, each city is adapting in its own unique way. In New York, the most noticeable absence is the vibrant energy that typically characterizes the city. In Paris, the lack of lively social gatherings that inspire people is seen as a major loss. The disappearance of refined pleasures that the French have perfected over centuries has made life dull and monotonous. There seems to be no exciting options for entertainment. A friend recently complained of feeling trapped, saying, "Paris is all we have." He purchased a dog so he could take it for walks after the curfew. Frédéric Hocquard, who is in charge of tourism and nightlife at the mayor's office, informed me that there was an 85% decrease in tourist numbers in Paris last year. Visits to the Louvre and Versailles, which are currently closed, were down by approximately 90%. He described the situation as "catastrophic." Hotel occupancy is currently at approximately 6%, but one positive note is that the number of Parisians visiting the Eiffel Tower last year has doubled. According to Hocquard, one sign of a true Parisian is never having gone up the Eiffel Tower, but this trend is starting to shift. The increase in visitors can be attributed to the lack of other options available in Paris. Despite the low hotel occupancy and general unhappiness among Parisians, there are some advantages to this situation. Traffic is moving smoothly, and markets are bustling with vendors like oyster shuckers and butchers meticulously preparing their products. The debate over the ripeness of Camembert cheeses and the unique presentation of rum baba cakes with syringes injecting rum add to the city's charm. The islands in the city still face the elegant low-slung bridges, while 19th-century lampposts along Rue de Rivoli create a surreal atmosphere reminiscent of a film noir. It is noted that with a press pass, one can venture out after curfew. Paris in a peaceful state is also Paris lost in thought. Ducasse mentioned that after one hundred days, the revival would start. When asked if he had gone on any trips, he mentioned that he had only traveled to Bologna in Italy to find a skilled gelato maker. Following the success of his chocolate business a few years ago, Hocquard's next business venture will involve ice cream. He is also considering hosting concerts and outdoor activities in parks, along the Seine river, and even at unused airports in April and May. Despite his optimistic outlook, there remains the challenge of addressing the current situation. On a recent snowy Sunday, the author visited the Tuileries in search of entertainment and found solace in the formal design of the garden, with its gravel paths, trimmed trees, and geometric layouts. A carousel was the only attraction that was still operating. Colorful horses, along with an ostrich, a car, a plane, a ship, and a few Cinderella carriages went round and round. My partner and I decided to ride the horses. The music playing was from North Africa, and there were a few children present. The carousel, a small wonder, took me back through my occasional visits to Paris dating back to the mid-1970s. I knew that Paris would be there again, even if not this spring, at some point in the future. I observed a crow picking up a discarded French fry and flying away to sit on a bench. I looked at a wall adorned with plaques commemorating French soldiers who died during the liberation of Paris in 1944. The youngest soldier, Jean-Claude Touche, was only 18 years old. The pandemic has created a war-like atmosphere during times of peace, but it will eventually come to an end. Just like Humphrey Bogart's iconic line in "Casablanca," reminding Ingrid Bergman of the memories they shared in Paris, now is the time to imagine and cherish the beauty of the city. Copyright 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
If individuals can demonstrate that they are in real danger and meet the requirements of the host country, that country must accept them. This principle, which originated after World War II as a moral and practical necessity to rebuild societies for the greater good, has not been fully upheld. The Western powers that initially promoted this idea have been gradually weakening it in recent years, undermining their own and the world's responsibilities towards ensuring global stability. This trend reached a new low last week when the UK government announced a plan to send thousands of asylum seekers to Rwanda without hearing their claims, shifting the burden to another country. Britain did not invent the practice of detaining refugees and asylum-seekers in remote facilities. European governments have been outsourcing this task to foreign despots and warlords in countries such as Sudan and Libya. Australia also delegates this responsibility to island nations, which are sometimes referred to as its gulag archipelago. The United States initiated this approach in 1991 by redirecting boats carrying Haitians to Guantánamo Bay, Cuba. The rise of right-wing populist movements, the backlash in Europe against a surge in migration in 2015, and the coronavirus pandemic have all contributed to the acceleration of this practice, along with other measures such as walls, armed patrols, and policies designed to increase the dangers of the journey for migrants. The global refugee system is not completely dead, as European governments are accepting millions of displaced Ukrainians. However, Britain's recent policies suggest that the system, once seen as a universal obligation, is now viewed as voluntary. This change is evident in the double standard applied to different groups of migrants. The shift in attitude towards refugees is expected to have consequences in the coming months, particularly as refugee arrivals are expected to increase in the summer. The global commitment to refugees and asylum-seekers has always been more conditional and self-interested than initially portrayed. In the aftermath of World War II, Western leaders promised to resettle Europe's refugees in safe locations, but also forcibly repatriated 2.3 million Soviet citizens to the Soviet Union, where many faced execution or imprisonment. Despite this, during the Cold War, Western governments began to emphasize their respect for refugee rights as a way to showcase their superiority over communist governments that restricted citizens from fleeing. However, Western compliance with refugee rights remained inconsistent, often favoring refugees from communist countries or those who offered potential political advantages. The real change occurred at the end of the Cold War in 1991, when Western countries no longer had a political reason to accept refugees. As a result, global refugee populations increased significantly in the early 1990s, reaching 18 million according to the United Nations. The US started diverting Haitian refugees in 1991 as a way to avoid having to hear their claims, taking advantage of a loophole that allowed them to technically comply with US law without having to fulfill international obligations. Years later, there was another increase in the number of refugees globally, reaching 20 million in 2017. While the figure has slightly increased since then, it still remains smaller compared to the peak in 1992 as a percentage of the global population. The current refugee crisis is believed to be smaller than the one after World War II, which displaced tens of millions of people across Europe and Asia and had a significant impact on societies, prompting action from world powers. However, in the 2010s, as refugee numbers rose mainly from poorer countries, the response was different. The United States implemented similar policies for Central American and Haitian refugees by negotiating agreements with governments, particularly in Mexico, to prevent refugees and other migrants from reaching the border. Europe and Australia also followed similar strategies. The outcome is the establishment of detention centers in concentric rings just beyond the borders of wealthy countries, some known for their harsh treatment of detainees. These centers are strategically located along the paths of refugees or near the borders they were trying to reach, giving governments a facade of compliance. Britain's new proposal, which involves transporting people to a distant continent, takes this concept even further, highlighting the flaws in the current system. Some suggest that creating new international agreements or abolishing old ones could help distribute global responsibility more effectively, especially as the distinction between economic migrants and political refugees becomes blurred due to an increase in climate refugees. However, world leaders have shown little interest in these ideas. If governments are unwilling to accept refugees, simply replacing one ignored agreement with another will not make much of a difference. The double standard in Europe, where Ukrainians are welcomed but migrants from the Middle East are kept out, highlights the unwritten norms of the new refugee system. Governments now apply refugee rights selectively, based on which groups are expected to receive domestic political approval. This practice, seen in Britain's expulsion of asylum-seekers while apologizing for not accepting more Ukrainians, reflects a growing trend where certain populations are favored over others. Despite criticism of President Donald Trump's comments about accepting Norwegians and rejecting undesirable populations, this sentiment is becoming more common. The Biden administration recently provided protected status to 40,000 Cameroonian citizens in the US, allowing them to stay due to the civil war in Cameroon. Additionally, 30,000 Ukrainians were granted protected status. There is a debate within the administration about maintaining a Trump-era rule that allows the US to reject most refugees on public health grounds. Despite the rule being set to be lifted on May 23, some in the administration pushed to keep it, citing the pandemic as a reason for stricter border controls. Schwartz mentioned that the pandemic has led to once extreme measures, like near-total border closures, becoming more acceptable. The easing of restrictions that were once considered shocking has made governments more comfortable in implementing them. Governments have realized that as long as they don't hold each other accountable for breaking international norms, only their citizens can stop them. Often, it is the citizens themselves who demand these policies. Right-wing populist parties gained support in the last decade by opposing immigration and framing refugee regulations as a scheme to weaken national identities. While some mainstream parties resisted this trend - such as Germany accepting 1 million refugees despite the rise of far-right groups - others believed restricting nonwhite immigration was necessary to protect their parties, and possibly their democratic systems. The original intentions of the global refugee compact did not align with the current situation where domestic politics determine the fate of families fleeing disasters. The British public's response to Prime Minister Boris Johnson's proposal, which defies the compact, may shed light on the situation. David Normington, a former top civil servant, criticized the proposal as inhumane, morally wrong, potentially illegal, and impractical. Ultimately, the success of the plan may hinge on the British public's tolerance rather than legal or moral considerations. Copyright 2022 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Halimi was instructed to dismiss all male teachers at girls' schools and replace them with women because the militants believed that men should not teach girls. The government complied with this demand in order to prevent the schools from being forcibly shut down. Unfortunately, even Farah's schools were not exempt from this directive. Last month, armed men on motorcycles set fire to two girls' schools near Farah city on consecutive nights, causing significant damage and destroying teaching materials, resulting in the indefinite suspension of classes for nearly 1,700 girls. Graffiti with the words "Long live the Islamic Emirate" was found on a nearby wall, indicating the involvement of the Taliban. According to police spokesman Muhibullah Muhib, four other girls' schools in the province have also been targeted in recent months, instilling fear among teachers, students, and their families. These attacks have sparked concerns about a potential return to the oppressive rule of the Taliban as negotiations for a peace deal continue between the militants and the United States. Until 2001, girls' education was illegal and women were restricted to their homes under the Taliban government. Today, over 3.6 million Afghan girls are attending school and 100,000 women are enrolled in universities. However, in recent months, around 400 schools have closed due to security concerns such as armed conflict and threats from the Taliban. The recent bombings in Farah highlighted the ongoing fear among Afghan women that a future government involving the Taliban could once again restrict girls' education, despite assurances from Taliban leaders in Qatar about supporting women's rights under Islamic law. Sosan Aubi, a 38-year-old teacher at a school targeted in last month's arson attacks, expressed disappointment in the aftermath of the explosion, stating that she and her colleagues had been hopeful for peace due to the Qatar talks. Nayab Khan, a grocer from the village whose family members had attended the burned school, voiced skepticism towards the Taliban's claims of change, citing the continued violence against schools and girls' education. Zabihullah Mujahid, a Taliban spokesperson, denied any involvement in the attacks and pledged to investigate and punish any perpetrators. Mujahid stated that if the schools were to open again, there would be no threat from the Taliban. However, frustrated local residents noted that the schools were located in Taliban-controlled areas and government officials were unable to assess the damage. Dadullah Qani, a member of the Farah provincial council, expressed concern that the attacks indicated the government was losing control of the province, stating that the security situation was worsening with each passing day. Provincial government officials and village elders noted that both the government and ordinary people are unable to prevent attacks like the ones that occurred. The attacks revealed a division within the Taliban, with some civil authorities supporting girls' education while some military commanders opposed it. The Taliban have established shadow governments in areas they control, collecting taxes and overseeing daily operations. A delegation of village elders met with government officials to request the rebuilding of schools, but were informed that the government lacked the ability to intervene and were advised to approach local Taliban leaders instead. Halimi mentioned that a group of approximately 50 villagers was thinking about restarting classes in tents on a temporary basis. Residents in the area confirmed that Taliban education officials had been in touch with leaders of provincial schools to discuss the possibility of reopening, but they needed time to negotiate with Taliban military commanders. Mohammad Azimi, the education director of the province, stated that he had requested assistance from parents and students to help with the reopening of schools. At Sher Ali Khan school in Naw Deh village, located about 8 miles from Farah city, the windows were shattered and the walls were damaged. Inside, burnt desks and school papers were scattered around. A plaque at the school entrance displayed Afghan and American flags and a message indicating that the U.S. Agency for International Development had assisted in constructing the school in 2005. The U.S. flag on the plaque had been partially scratched out. The agency's office in Kabul stated that they were not currently funding the school, but it may have been a past project. The school principal, Abdul Rahman, reported that five masked men tied up the night watchman, poured fuel inside the school, and set it on fire on April 15. Additionally, they detonated a small explosive device inside the school office. School records, student supplies, and academic textbooks were set on fire, but the attackers chose not to destroy Islamic religious texts, according to Rahman. Rahman expressed concern that all the girls are now afraid, and even if the school reopens, they may not return. Abdul Hamid Haidari, a 45-year-old shopkeeper, revealed that his three daughters attended Sher Ali Khan school. He mentioned that his daughter Roya, who was supposed to graduate and become a teacher, may not be able to achieve her dream anymore as her school transcripts were destroyed in the attack. Haidari shared that Roya and her sisters were devastated when they heard about the incident. He expressed his determination to educate all of his children, including his daughters and four sons, and had made sacrifices to send them to school despite the dangerous security conditions. He had hoped that the peace talks would improve the situation, but after their school was destroyed, his hopes have diminished. Qani, a member of the provincial council, talked about the fear and lack of trust in the community following the attacks on schools. He mentioned that the attacks may have achieved their goal as many parents are now scared to send their daughters back to school. "Today they destroy school buildings," Qani said. "Will students be attacked by them tomorrow?" - c.2019 New York Times News Service. | 2 |
The "solar direct-drive" refrigerators, which are simple coolers that do not rely on fuel or batteries, have played a significant role in increasing child vaccination rates in the poorest rural provinces of the DRC by 50% in the last year, as reported by the global vaccine alliance Gavi. This has contributed to a 50% reduction in child mortality in the DRC compared to two decades ago. Over 18 million children were vaccinated against a deadly measles outbreak last year, which has significantly slowed down in recent weeks. With the hope of launching a large-scale immunization campaign once COVID-19 vaccines are available, the world faces the challenge of delivering millions of vaccines in Africa, a continent with weak healthcare systems and limited access to electricity. It is still uncertain if current off-grid refrigerators are able to maintain the necessary low temperatures for vaccines. Refrigeration is crucial for the distribution of vaccines, as many require specific cooling temperatures ranging from 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, while some COVID-19 vaccine candidates may need storage as low as minus 80 degrees Celsius. Establishing a cold chain distribution network for COVID-19 vaccines will be challenging, as it will require consistent low temperatures from manufacturers to airports to remote rural areas. Despite advancements in cold storage technology that have saved numerous lives through vaccinations, many African countries still lack sufficient cold chain networks. Toby Peters, a professor specializing in cooling systems for food and medicine at the University of Birmingham in Britain, described the logistical challenge of providing refrigeration in sub-Saharan African countries with rural populations as one of the largest challenges the world has ever faced. In the 1990s, outdated kerosene-powered refrigerators in health centers in the DRC were causing vaccines to be damaged or destroyed. The introduction of first-generation solar refrigerators was an improvement, but they had issues with storage batteries failing after a few years. However, the development of solar direct-drive refrigerators about a decade ago has addressed these problems. These refrigerators, which cost between $3,500 and $9,000, are directly wired to solar panels, allowing thermal energy to freeze a layer of water that keeps vaccines cool for many days, regardless of the weather. In 2016, only 16% of rural health centers in the DRC had functioning refrigerators, according to Gavi. Today, nearly 80% of these centers have been equipped, many with direct-drive solar units. These improvements have led to 24,000 monthly immunization sessions in the nine poorest provinces in the past year, a 50% increase from 2018. According to Clemmer, this has greatly improved vaccine delivery for children in sub-Saharan Africa. Karan Sagar, a doctor leading the health systems and immunizations strengthening team at Gavi, attributes a 25% increase in child vaccination rates in Africa over the past decade to the off-grid equipment. Since 2017, Gavi has spearheaded a $250-million initiative to distribute over 15,300 solar direct-drive fridges to numerous African countries, with the Democratic Republic of Congo receiving nearly 3,400 units and Nigeria receiving 5,400 units. According to Sagar, 87% of children in these countries received the initial dose of a vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis last year, showcasing the effectiveness of supply chains in reaching even the most remote areas. Moving forward, Africa will need to address not only ultra-cold storage for COVID-19 vaccines but also implement various measures to ensure swift and secure transportation of vaccines from manufacturing sites to urban and rural locations across the continent. Throughout the transportation process, including airplanes, warehouses, trucks, motorbikes, bicycles, canoes, and even drones, the vaccines must be stored at specific cold temperatures, similar to other perishable items. The COVID-19 vaccine will require substantially larger quantities than child vaccination campaigns, with experts estimating the need to reach up to 750 million people in Africa alone. To address this challenge, cold chain expert Peters is spearheading a government-supported initiative to assess Africa's requirements for distributing the COVID-19 vaccine, collaborating with various partners from nonprofit organizations, commercial entities, and academic institutions. They are leveraging insights from Rwanda, a country in central-east Africa that has made significant advancements in establishing efficient, environmentally friendly cold chains for delivering food and vaccines. The system is centered around a single warehouse that functions as a cooling center for vaccines distributed to various healthcare facilities, including district hospitals, health centers, and remote rural health posts. Many of these facilities are equipped with solar fridges. The World Health Organization reports that the vaccines are reaching over 95% of the population in Rwanda. However, duplicating this success in other countries will be challenging, especially in larger countries like Nigeria. According to Peters, a food cold chain model with larger-scale commercial capacity will be necessary. Peters explained that they have expertise in transporting fresh food from small farms in Africa to consumers in Europe, but transferring this knowledge to vaccines may be challenging due to the ultra-cooling requirements of COVID-19 vaccines. Rwanda and the DRC have experience with ultra-cold storage for vaccines, such as during the Ebola outbreak, using "super thermos" coolers with synthetic alcohol ice to maintain temperatures of minus 60-80C for up to 6.5 days. However, the quantities needed for a COVID-19 vaccine would be much larger. Sagar pointed out that very few African economies have the capability for ultra-cold chain storage. Peters is optimistic that COVID-19 vaccines will only need standard cold storage temperatures of 2-8C, which can be provided by solar direct-drive refrigerators at rural health centers. He stated that if vaccines require colder temperatures than that, it will pose a significant new challenge for mainstream cold chains. | 2 |
France had previously announced restrictions on cross-Channel trade starting at 2300 GMT on Monday, potentially escalating tensions over fishing rights into a larger trade dispute between France and the UK. However, President Macron stated that the French plan is currently on hold as discussions have resumed following a meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Macron mentioned that talks will continue based on a proposal he made to Johnson and that the British are expected to come back with other proposals tomorrow. "All tasks will be addressed. We will assess our progress tomorrow at the end of the day to determine if there have been any significant changes," he stated. "I hope that we can come to a resolution on all of these matters." European Affairs Minister Clement Beaune mentioned on Twitter that the trade sanctions would not be enforced until a meeting with British Brexit minister David Frost in Paris on Thursday. The decision was well-received by Britain. A spokesperson for the UK government stated that they appreciate France's recognition that thorough discussions are necessary to address the various challenges in the UK/EU relationship. The spokesperson also mentioned that Frost has agreed to Beaune's invitation. Earlier in the day, Britain gave France a 48-hour ultimatum to retract the threat of sanctions or be faced with legal consequences under the Brexit trade agreement. The possible measures from France, such as increased border checks and banning British vessels from certain ports, could disrupt trade across the Channel. British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss criticized the unreasonable threats from France, including those against the Channel Islands and the fishing industry, and warned of using the trade agreement mechanisms to respond. Disputes between Britain and France over access to fishing areas around the Channel have been ongoing for many years. The fishing issue was a major point of contention during the negotiations for Britain's exit from the European Union, not because of its economic significance, which is minimal, but because of its political importance. Reclaiming control over British fishing grounds was a key argument for Brexit made by Johnson to British voters. Macron, on the other hand, is facing re-election next year and needs to show support for his nation's trawler crews, who are a vocal political group. The recent conflict began in September when Paris accused London of not granting enough post-Brexit licenses to French fishing boats in the 6-12 nautical mile zone near UK shores. Britain argues that it is only issuing licenses to vessels that can prove they have previously fished in its waters, a demand from British fishermen who are concerned about French boats impacting their profits. French officials took control of a British scallop dredger, the Cornelis Gert Jan, in French waters close to Le Havre last Wednesday, causing frustration in London. As the French deadline approached on Monday afternoon, fishing crews from both countries were avoiding each other's waters in anticipation of escalating tensions. This information was gathered from marine traffic tracking data and a representative from the French fishing industry. | 2 |
The European Union's Nobel Peace Prize is being awarded at a time when it is becoming clear that the EU's single currency, which has survived three years of financial turmoil, is not going to fall apart. However, despite avoiding a potentially messy breakup, the euro zone still faces challenges and risks becoming an unequal and strained partnership. Recent developments have shown that the euro is likely to remain with all 17 members and possibly expand in the future. However, the region still struggles with economic stagnation, high unemployment, and social issues that are creating divisions between northern and southern Europe and fueling anti-EU sentiment in various countries. The European Central Bank's decision to buy unlimited quantities of bonds from troubled member states has provided some stability to the euro zone, but the region has yet to find a way out of its economic troubles. ECB President Mario Draghi emphasized the bank's commitment to using all available tools to prevent anyone from speculating on the breakup of the monetary union. The euro zone's permanent rescue fund, which offers a 500 billion euro backstop for countries at risk of losing access to capital markets, recently went into effect after overcoming legal challenges. German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit to Athens indicated that Germany, the EU's most powerful economy, wants Greece to remain in the euro area, putting an end to debates in Berlin about potentially expelling Greece. Furthermore, the flood of predictions about the euro's collapse from financial institutions in London and New York has suddenly ceased, and the number of short bets against the euro in currency markets has decreased. Bond yields have decreased and bank stocks have rebounded. Spanish banks are borrowing less from the ECB as some are regaining access to money markets. The likelihood of a Greek exit from the euro, or "Grexit," has decreased according to economists at Citigroup, who now believe key euro zone players see more harm than good in a Greek exit. While the probability of a "Grexit" has been lowered to 60 percent from 90 percent, Citigroup still believes Greece is likely to leave the euro within the next 12-18 months. However, they argue that European governments are unlikely to agree to forgive part of Greece's significant debt to ensure sustainability. It is suggested that debt forgiveness may still be a possibility after the next German general election. It might appear to be a more logical, although unpopular, choice compared to a disorderly Greek default and exit, which would have severe economic and social consequences for Greece and Europe. The International Monetary Fund recently criticized the EU's policy response, stating that it is incomplete and leaves the euro area vulnerable to capital flight, breakup fears, and economic decline. The IMF is pushing for faster progress in the euro zone, particularly in Germany, towards a banking union and closer fiscal integration, as well as a change in the balance between austerity and growth. The IMF also admitted underestimating the negative impact of budget cuts on growth and called on Europe to relax austerity measures, which was met with opposition from Germany's finance minister. The effects of the sovereign debt crisis will continue to be felt for years to come, particularly in financial markets. Austerity measures and economic downturn are causing severe social repercussions in countries like Athens and Madrid, pushing middle-class families, retirees, and young people into poverty and insecurity. This crisis has shifted the balance of power in Europe, giving Germany and its allies more control in decision-making within the euro zone. This has led to the possibility of a two-tier Europe, with a tighter inner core and a looser outer circle. Germany is resistant to taking on more financial responsibility for struggling euro zone countries and is opposed to common euro zone bonds or joint bank guarantees. Finance ministers from Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland are working to prevent the retroactive use of euro zone rescue funds. Berlin is in favor of the idea of creating a separate budget for the euro zone to deal with economic shocks and supports a single banking supervisor, which could lead to increased risk-sharing in the future. As the euro area becomes more unified, non-euro EU countries like Poland, Hungary, and Latvia are faced with difficult decisions. They are eager to join the monetary union and are pushing to have a say in decisions made by the banking supervisory authority. Poland recently tried to gain entry to the Eurogroup by offering to participate in a financial transaction tax, but was informed that only euro zone members could attend. Britain is not planning to join the euro or banking union, but wants a veto right to safeguard its financial sector. It also sees the closer integration of the euro zone as a chance to renegotiate its own European ties. Sweden, with a pro-euro government that was defeated in a referendum on joining the currency in 2003, is less certain about the euro zone progressing without it. This situation is creating tension in Europe as it undergoes a period of restructuring that will challenge its ability to maintain peace and prosperity on a divided continent, as recognized by the Nobel Prize. | 2 |
Pope Benedict stated that communism had failed in Cuba and offered the Church's assistance in developing a new economic model. His remarks, made during a plane journey to Mexico and Cuba, received a cautious response from the Cuban government. The Pope emphasized that Marxist ideology no longer aligns with reality and stressed the need for patience and constructive efforts to create new societal models. These comments were more direct and critical than those made by his predecessor, John Paul II, during his visit to Cuba 14 years ago. The Church and government in Cuba have improved their relationship in recent years, leading many to believe that the pope would avoid controversial topics during his visit. However, Cuban leaders did not show any signs of being upset by his comments, as Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez emphasized the importance of respecting all opinions and engaging in the exchange of ideas. Elizardo Sanchez, leader of the Cuban Commission on Human Rights, commended the pope for demonstrating the Catholic Church's good intentions, particularly Pope Benedict XVI's stance on Cuba. Despite this, Sanchez expressed skepticism about the possibility of significant change, citing the government's lack of willingness to make necessary political reforms. Pope John Paul II's famous words in Revolution Square urged Cuba to embrace its potential and engage with the world, a sentiment echoed by Pope Benedict, who highlighted the importance of collaboration and dialogue. Although progress has been made in resolving certain disputes, disagreements persist between the Cuban bishops and the government on issues such as media access and religious education. The Church is aiming to increase its congregation in Cuba through the upcoming papal visit, as the number of followers has decreased since the revolution due to factors like families leaving and government hostility. Church officials estimate that around 60 percent of Cuba's population has been baptized, but only five percent regularly attend mass. During his visit, Pope Benedict will offer the Church's support in helping Cuba achieve a peaceful transition, emphasizing the need for patience and decisiveness. The Church hopes to assist in fostering a society that is fraternal and just, and to avoid any potential difficulties that may arise in the future when Cuba's current aging leaders, including Fidel Castro and Raul Castro, are no longer in power. Cuba's leaders have acknowledged the need for improvement in the country's economic model while strongly supporting the one-party communist political system. Fidel Castro's statement in 2010 to a reporter from the Atlantic magazine that the "Cuban model doesn't even work for us any more" was seen by some as an acknowledgement of communism's failure in Cuba. However, Castro later clarified that his remark was not a criticism of the communist revolution but rather a reflection on Cuba's challenging economic conditions. This indicated his support for his brother's efforts to implement modest reforms to boost the country's struggling economy and uphold the revolution. The question remains whether Benedict will meet with Fidel, who led Cuba for 49 years before stepping down due to age and health issues. The Vatican has stated that the pope is willing to meet with the elder, ailing Castro if he desires. According to a report from Amnesty International, there has been a significant increase in harassment and detention of dissidents in Cuba over the past two years. When asked about defending human rights in Cuba, the pope responded by affirming the Church's support for freedom of conscience and religion. On Monday, Cuba released 70 members of the dissident Ladies in White group who had been detained over the weekend, but cautioned them against participating in activities related to the pope's visit. The women, also known as the "Damas de Blanco," were released without charges after being arrested in separate incidents when they tried to march in Havana. Rodriguez cautioned that attempts to disrupt the papal visit through political means will be unsuccessful, as the Cuban people are patriotic, educated, and proud of their culture and beliefs. The Vatican recently reiterated its disapproval of the US trade embargo against Cuba, labeling it as ineffective and harmful to the citizens. Despite being in place for 50 years, the embargo remains a key component of US policy towards Cuba, despite its failure to weaken the communist regime. During the peak of the Cold War, Washington implemented a nearly complete trade embargo on Havana as a way to retaliate against its alliance with the Soviet Union and to try to eradicate communism. | 2 |
The latest comprehensive data from 2013 showed that 767 million people were living on less than $1.90 a day, a decrease from 881 million the previous year, with the most significant income improvements in Asia. World Bank President Jim Yong Kim stated that it is impressive that countries have managed to decrease poverty and increase shared prosperity despite global economic challenges. The new statistics demonstrate progress in assisting the poor over the last 25 years, with nearly 1.1 billion fewer people living in poverty in 2013 compared to 1990, despite population growth. These findings bring the world closer to achieving the United Nations' goal of eradicating extreme poverty by 2030. The objective is a part of the Sustainable Development Goals, which consists of 17 goals aimed at addressing poverty, inequality, and climate change. However, achieving this objective will also involve addressing long-standing inequality, according to the Bank. Francisco Ferreira, a senior adviser at the World Bank's Development Research Group, stated that meeting the international community's goals by 2030 will require addressing inequality and promoting more inclusive growth. The Bank reported that income inequality had increased between 1988 and 2013. Nevertheless, recent data indicates that inequality has decreased in over 40 countries, including Brazil, Peru, Mali, and Cambodia. Half of the world's population living in extreme poverty resides in Sub-Saharan Africa, while one third of the global poor are located in South Asia. The Bank stated that poverty reduction efforts have been most successful in East Asia and the Asia Pacific regions, specifically in countries such as China, Indonesia, and India. The Bank also reported that in 2015, the number of people living in extreme poverty was estimated to fall below 10 percent of the world's population for the first time. | 2 |
"Sleepless: A Musical Romance," which premiered at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theater on Tuesday, is more significant for what it symbolizes rather than the show itself: London's first fully staged indoor musical since the coronavirus pandemic forced live performances to stop in March. While several musical revivals have been performed in concert outdoors in the city, the limited plays available have featured small casts or no live actors at all. Despite its lack of excitement, "Sleepless" will be running until Sept. 27 on a scale that was previously unimaginable, which is worth celebrating. The musical benefits from being based on the popular 1993 film "Sleepless in Seattle," which starred Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan and is known for keeping its main characters apart until the end. This version of "Sleepless" is not related to a 2013 stage adaptation. The plot reflects the current trend of physical distancing, with the characters only coming together at the end of the show on the Empire State Building. The production has implemented safety measures such as daily COVID testing for the cast and crew, mask requirements for audience members, temperature checks, and hand sanitizers throughout the building. The theater in northwestern London, located away from the West End, is only selling less than one-third of its 1,300 seats for each performance. This decision was made by producers who believed that having some paying audience was better than having no audience at all. The musical "Sleepless: A Musical Romance" at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theater is London's first indoor musical production in months, based on the 1993 hit film "Sleepless in Seattle." Despite the dedication of everyone involved, it is disappointing that the director Morgan Young's production is not more exciting, despite the likable performances of the main actors. Young and his two English stars had previously worked together on the West End premiere of the Broadway musical "Big" last year. An image provided by Alastair Muir shows Kimberley Walsh, Jack Reynolds, and Jay McGuiness in the musical "Sleepless: A Musical Romance" at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theater in London. Based on the popular 1993 film "Sleepless in Seattle," this production is London's first fully staged indoor musical in months. The musical features a new British composing team, Robert Scott and Brendan Cull, in a theater scene still dominated by Andrew Lloyd Webber. However, some critics find that too many songs in the score have a similar easy-listening quality, with Annie's numbers mainly focusing on her feelings of being "out of my mind" or "out of my head" due to her sudden obsession with a man she heard about on the radio. The film's portrayal of the character Walter, played by Daniel Casey, evokes sympathy as he deals with his partner Annie's growing attraction to a voice she wants to meet in person. The role of Sam, a depressed architect in Seattle, is overshadowed by his son Jonah, portrayed by Jobe Hart, a talented young actor known for his work in "Big." Hart shares the role of Jonah with three other boys due to union regulations. The standout moment in the film is a duet called "Now or Never" between Hart and Cory English, who plays Sam's lively friend Rob. The song even has its own reprise, showcasing the chemistry between the two characters. The film's script is based on Nora Ephron's Oscar-nominated screenplay, occasionally overemphasizing certain references. It is acceptable to introduce Annie, a reporter for The Baltimore Sun, as a movie enthusiast with a strong interest in the Cary Grant-Deborah Kerr movie "An Affair to Remember," which influenced Ephron's film. However, it is unclear why Annie must express her admiration for Grant, and it is hard to believe that such a devoted movie buff would argue about the pronunciation of Kerr's last name. Nevertheless, Annie is the type of person who finds the word "exotic" intriguing, so her conversations can go in unexpected directions. McGuiness and Walsh, both known for their work with pop groups, are affable team leaders in a production that feels somewhat lacking. After watching "Sleepless," you are left feeling satisfied but also eager for more and better theater in the future. Copyright 2020 New York Times News Service. | 2 |
When a new wave of COVID-19 hit in January, Stishi's father contracted the virus and passed away shortly after. Despite her efforts to find work, such as offering housecleaning services for $10, she was unsuccessful. As a result, Stishi and her children are experiencing hunger for the first time. Stishi, 30, expressed frustration that others do not understand their dire situation, as the pandemic has caused widespread unemployment and financial hardship for families like hers who were already struggling to make ends meet. Currently, more people in South Africa and other countries are experiencing severe food shortages compared to before the pandemic. According to the World Food Program, an estimated 270 million people are at risk of life-threatening food insecurity this year, up from 150 million previously. The number of people on the verge of famine has also increased to 41 million from 34 million last year. The World Food Program, in collaboration with the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation, has warned that conflict, economic impacts of COVID-19, and the climate crisis will likely lead to higher levels of acute food insecurity in 23 hunger hot spots over the next four months, mostly in Africa but also in Central America, Afghanistan, and North Korea. The situation is especially dire in Africa, where new infections have risen significantly. In recent months, humanitarian organizations have expressed concern about the situation in Ethiopia and southern Madagascar, where the number of people facing famine is alarmingly high. Global hunger has been on the rise due to various crises such as armed conflicts and extreme poverty, as well as climate-related disasters like droughts and floods. The economic impact of the pandemic has further exacerbated the crisis, leading to long lines at food distribution centers in both wealthy and impoverished nations. As a new surge of the virus spreads through Africa, the lack of financial assistance from relatives, friends, and neighbors is exacerbating the already dire situation for the world's poor who rely on this informal safety net in the absence of government aid. Hunger is now a prominent issue highlighting the disparity between affluent countries returning to normalcy and poorer nations facing worsening crises. Amer Daoudi, senior director of operations at the World Food Program, expressed concern over the unprecedented global food security situation, with multiple significant crises occurring simultaneously worldwide. In South Africa, a traditionally food-secure nation, hunger has become widespread. In the past year, three destructive waves of the virus have resulted in the deaths of thousands of breadwinners, causing families to struggle to afford food. Extended school closures have stopped around 9 million students from receiving free lunches. A stringent government lockdown last year closed down informal food vendors in townships, making it difficult for some of the poorest residents to access affordable groceries and forcing them to shop at more expensive supermarkets. Approximately 3 million South Africans lost their jobs, leading to an unemployment rate of 32.6% — the highest since data collection began in 2008. In rural parts of the country, prolonged droughts have led to the loss of livestock and a decline in farmers' incomes. The South African government has offered some assistance by implementing $24 monthly stipends and other social grants last year. However, by the end of the year, almost 40% of South Africans were still experiencing hunger, as reported in an academic study. In Duncan Village, a large township in the Eastern Cape province, the economic support for many families has been lost. Prior to the pandemic, the area was bustling with workers heading to East London for jobs in car assembly plants, textiles, and processed food industries. Anelisa Langeni, 32, expressed that they always had an abundance of resources while sitting at the kitchen table in their two-bedroom home in Duncan Village. Her father, who worked at the Mercedes-Benz plant for nearly four decades, had saved enough to build two additional single-family homes on their property as rental units to secure financial stability for his children. However, the pandemic disrupted these plans as the tenants lost their jobs and were unable to pay rent shortly after the first lockdown. When Langeni and her sister lost their jobs at a seafood restaurant and a pizza joint, they relied on their father's $120 monthly pension. However, in July, he fell ill with a cough and fever and passed away from suspected COVID-19 on the way to the hospital. Langeni was devastated by the news, feeling like she had lost everything. Without work, she sought assistance from two elderly neighbors, one of whom provided food bought with her husband's pension. The second neighbor would provide food weekly following visits from her daughter, who often brought so many grocery bags that they filled the back of her gray Honda minivan. However, in November, a new variant of the coronavirus hit the province, resulting in the death of the first neighbor's husband and the end of his pension. A month later, the second neighbor's daughter also passed away from the virus. "I never expected things to turn out like this," expressed 73-year-old Bukelwa Tshingila, wiping tears from her cheeks. In the kitchen, a portrait of her daughter hung above an empty cupboard. Two hundred miles to the west, in the Karoo region, the impact of the pandemic has been worsened by an ongoing drought that has lasted for eight years. This has caused the once green shrubs in the area to turn a dull, gray color. Zolile Hanabe, a 70-year-old farmer with a 2,400-acre farm in the Karoo, is not only losing his income but also witnessing the effects of the drought. Hanabe has dreamt of owning a farm since he was a child, when his father had to sell their goats due to apartheid policies. In 2011, nearly two decades after apartheid ended, he used his savings from working as a school principal to lease a farm and purchase cattle and Boer goats, the same breed his father had raised. These animals grazed on the shrubs and drank from a river that flowed through the property. He stated that he once believed the farm would be his legacy to pass down to his children. However, by 2019, he was still renting the farm and faced challenges such as a dried river, cattle deaths, and shrivelled shrubs due to the intensifying drought. He had to buy feed to keep the remaining cattle alive, costing $560 a month. The pandemic worsened his situation, leading him to lay off two of his three farm hands to reduce the risk of infection. Feed vendors also reduced their workforce and increased prices, further straining his finances. Hanabe expressed doubt that he could withstand both crises simultaneously. | 2 |
A $600 million global initiative was launched by scientists on Wednesday to increase rice yields and minimize the environmental impact of rice production. This effort, known as the Global Rice Science Partnership, aims to help 150 million people out of poverty by 2035 by conducting research over the next five years to improve yields and develop stronger rice strains that can withstand flooding and climate change. Led by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and its partners, the initiative was unveiled in Hanoi during a meeting of rice scientists, executives, policymakers, and traders from nearly 70 countries to discuss research, demand, trading, and currency risks. The focus of the research is to enhance food security, as rice is a staple for over half of the global population and most of the developing world. Additionally, the new research seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from rice production by over 1 billion tons of carbon dioxide through improved irrigation methods and the prevention of deforestation. The consultative group stated that if farmers were able to achieve higher yields, they would not need to expand their fields into new areas, potentially saving over 1.2 million hectares (3 million acres) of forest, wetlands, and other natural ecosystems by 2035. They also mentioned that annual funding for rice research by donors would increase to $139 million by 2015 from approximately $100 million the following year to help achieve the goals of the scheme. By increasing supplies and reducing food prices, the initiative is expected to help alleviate poverty for up to 72 million people by 2020, according to Zeigler. Along with IRRI, the initiative involves two French organizations, a research center in Japan, and numerous other partners from governments, the private sector, and civil society. | 2 |
He was a member of a band in Niterói, a city in Brazil surrounded by beaches, and he honed his guitar skills by watching tutorials online. YouTube had recently implemented a new artificial intelligence system that analyzed user behavior to suggest videos, leading him to discover a popular amateur guitar teacher named Nando Moura, known for his videos on heavy metal, video games, and politics. Moura's far-right conspiracy theories captivated him, and as he spent more time on the platform, he was recommended videos from other far-right personalities, including then-lawmaker Jair Bolsonaro. YouTube played a significant role in shaping his political views to the far right, and he now aspires to enter politics himself. YouTube has built its success by engaging users, but this has inadvertently benefited extremist groups. An investigation in Brazil, the company's second-largest market, revealed serious repercussions. The far-right movement in the country credits YouTube's recommendation system for their rapid rise to power. Recent studies support this claim, showing that the platform's algorithms have consistently directed users towards far-right and conspiracy content. The New York Times' investigation in Brazil uncovered how these promoted videos have disrupted everyday life, leading to unruly classrooms, misinformation on health issues, and other harmful consequences. Viral videos have led to death threats against public health advocates, while right-wing YouTube stars have joined politics and use the platform for trolling and provocation. YouTube's recommendation system is designed to keep users watching by suggesting videos that may include extreme content, leading to concerns about radicalization. Despite the platform's denial, some experts believe YouTube is a powerful tool for radicalization in the 21st century. Nevertheless, representatives from the company acknowledged some of the conclusions and assured that changes would be made. Farshad Shadloo, a spokesperson, stated that YouTube had made significant investments in policies, resources, and products to combat the spread of harmful misinformation, noting that authoritative content is thriving in Brazil and is highly recommended on the platform. Danah Boyd, founder of the think tank Data & Society, linked the disruption in Brazil to YouTube's relentless drive for viewer engagement and revenue generation. Despite the country already facing corruption scandals and a severe recession, Boyd expressed concern over YouTube's growing influence on democracies worldwide. Maurício Martins, the local vice president of Bolsonaro's party in Niterói, attributed most of the party's recruitment to YouTube, including his own. He described how YouTube auto-playing recommendations served as his political education, a sentiment echoed by many others. The platform's political impact is increasingly apparent in Brazilian schools, with students citing YouTube stars as their main source of information. Carlos Jordy, a City Council member, exemplifies YouTube's influence as he transitioned from traditional politics to focus on YouTube, posting videos accusing local teachers of promoting communism. He stated that his videos gained him a wide audience nationwide and helped him quickly rise to the federal legislature two years later. He credited social media for his success, stating that without it, neither he nor Jair Bolsonaro would be in their respective positions. Researchers at the Federal University of Minas Gerais analyzed YouTube videos and comments, finding that right-wing channels in Brazil were growing faster and influencing the site's political content. Positive mentions of Bolsonaro increased after YouTube changed its algorithm, even though polls still showed him to be unpopular. A team at Harvard's Berkman Klein Center investigated whether YouTube's recommendation engine had contributed to the far right's rapid growth in Brazil. They programmed a server to explore popular channels and search terms on YouTube, tracking how the platform guided users from one video to the next. They discovered that following the viewing of a video related to politics or entertainment, YouTube tended to recommend right-wing, conspiracy-driven channels like Moura's to users. Importantly, users who watched one extreme right channel were often recommended many more. The researchers found that the algorithm had brought together previously marginalized channels and helped them build a larger audience. One of these channels belonged to Bolsonaro, who had been using the platform to share hoaxes and conspiracy theories. Despite being an early adopter of YouTube, his online following had not significantly expanded his political base, which was minimal at a national level. However, when Brazil's political system collapsed and YouTube's popularity surged, Bolsonaro's far-right content, where he was a prominent figure, gained a massive audience, effectively preparing many Brazilians for his message during a time of political transformation. YouTube disputed the researchers' methods and claimed that their internal data contradicted the findings, but they refused to provide the data or statistics requested by the Times to verify the accuracy of the researchers' conclusions. The spread of conspiracies was not limited to politics. Numerous Brazilians who turned to YouTube for health information were frightened by videos claiming that Zika was being spread by vaccines or insecticides meant to control the disease. These videos, similar to extremist political content, made alarming claims and promised hidden truths that captivated viewers. As a result, many frightened patients refused vaccines and insecticides, leading to a public health crisis in communities like Maceió. Doctors and health workers struggled to combat the misinformation spread by these videos, as patients increasingly chose to believe what they found online over medical advice. This has led to a resurgence of Zika in some areas, as more communities reject larvicides. The medical community in Brazil feels overwhelmed by the influence of social media on public health decisions. Harvard researchers discovered that YouTube's algorithms often directed users searching for information on Zika or watching reputable health videos towards conspiracy channels. A YouTube spokesperson acknowledged the unintended findings and pledged to adjust the search tool to display Zika-related videos differently. The rise of the far right enabled conspiracy videos to be weaponized, with leading voices targeting individuals like women's rights activist Debora Diniz. YouTube stars, such as Bernardo Küster, accused Diniz of involvement in supposed Zika plots, suggesting that those working to help Zika-affected families were actually behind the disease. As far-right and conspiracy channels began referencing each other, YouTube's recommendation system began linking their videos, creating the illusion of widespread consensus on unfounded rumors. Diniz faced threats of rape and torture as a result of these conspiracy theories. Diniz stated that Küster's videos contained numerous repeated claims, and although Küster never explicitly supported the threats mentioned in the videos, he managed to stay within YouTube's guidelines. When Diniz's university received a warning of a potential shooting targeting her and her students, and the police could no longer guarantee their safety, she decided to leave Brazil. Diniz criticized the YouTube recommendation system for creating a culture of hate, where viewers are exposed to harmful narratives about individuals and groups. She emphasized the importance of holding companies accountable for their role in propagating hate speech. They are considered to be ethically accountable. On YouTube, there is a trend of spreading conspiracies targeting aid groups involved in controversial issues like abortion. This trend, known as "linchamento" in Brazil, has caused even long-time supporters of these groups to question the accuracy of the videos and avoid them. Bolsonaro was one of the first to spread false accusations in videos, leading to a culture of hate and fear. Jordy, a follower of Bolsonaro, had no remorse for the fear caused by his YouTube campaign. He believed it was necessary to fight a culture war and was his purpose in coming into office. The São Paulo headquarters of Movimento Brasil Livre is seen as the epicenter of political influence through YouTube. The group's members are typically young, middle-class, right-wing, and heavily involved in online activities. Renan Santos, the national coordinator, pointed to a door labeled "the YouTube Division" as the central hub of the group. Inside, a group of young men were working on editing software, including creating an image of Benito Mussolini for a video arguing that fascism was wrongly associated with the right. Despite their dedication to social media, some members expressed concerns about its impact on democracy. The co-founder, Pedro D'Eyrot, referred to social media as the "dictatorship of the like," emphasizing how viral messages shape reality. A controversial YouTube video titled "1964" was influencing public opinion by arguing that Brazil's military coup was necessary to prevent communism. This video convinced some viewers, like teenager Dominguez, that his teachers had distorted the truth about military rule. However, others, like history teacher Borges, were reminded of the dark memories of military rule, including curfews, disappeared activists, and police violence. Despite the divisive impact of social media, individuals like Matheus Dominguez credited YouTube for leading them to adopt far-right political views. YouTube has established its success by ensuring that users remain engaged, which has inadvertently benefitted extremist groups. A study conducted in the company's second-largest market uncovered significant repercussions. (Dado Galdieri/The New York Times) | 2 |
Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the son of the prime minister and an ICT adviser, announced the winners during a virtual event organized by Young Bangla, the youth platform of the Awami League's Centre for Research and Information, on Tuesday. The winners, 16 under the social inclusion category and 14 under social development, were chosen from 47 organizations selected for the final round out of 600 groups of youths aged between 18 and 35. Joy praised the winners for their "outstanding" work in serving the common people and thanked them for their efforts in helping poor children, people with disabilities, and other marginalized individuals. Joy mentioned that the winners were actively working to address the issues they encountered, contrasting them with those who simply complain. He emphasized that these winners, often individuals or small groups, are making a positive impact by implementing their own solutions rather than just criticizing. Nasrul Hamid Bipu, the state minister for power, energy, and mineral resources and a trustee of CRI, participated in the event, which was moderated by Dr. Nuzhat Choudhury. The winners in their respective categories are Happy Natore and Shoshtho Indrio for The 6th Sense of Rajshahi (focusing on children's rights), Obhizatrik Foundation of Patuakhali and Miserable Welfare Association of Sylhet (aimed at empowering the ultra-poor), Hate Khori Foundation of Pirojpur, Ek Takay Shikkha of Chattogram, and Good Film of Barishal (working towards empowering disadvantaged individuals), Unmesh of Rangamati, Ignite Youth Foundation of Chandpur, iTech School of Chandpur, and Positive Bangladesh of Dhaka (dedicated to youth development), and Deshi Balllers of Dhaka and Youth for Change of Barishal (dedicated to women's empowerment). The organizations mentioned are working towards empowering people with disabilities, preventing coronavirus through emergency efforts, addressing environmental and climate change issues, providing health education and awareness, and promoting socio-cultural entrepreneurship. Footstep Bangladesh from Noakhali and Safety Management Foundation from Kurigram, both focused on disaster management and reducing risk of damage, are the winners of the upcoming awards. The recipients will be given certificates, crests, and laptops. Young Bangla has recognized and awarded 130 organizations since 2015, with many of them achieving international acclaim afterwards. | 2 |
Colombia's Marxist rebels have announced a two-month ceasefire, marking the first break in hostilities in more than ten years. This ceasefire comes as peace talks in Cuba aim to end a fifty-year conflict. President Juan Manuel Santos' government has stated that military operations will continue until a final peace agreement is reached with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The rebels have agreed to stop all offensive military actions and acts of sabotage until January 20, in an effort to create a more positive atmosphere for negotiations. Lead rebel negotiator Ivan Marquez described the ceasefire as a significant step towards achieving peace and emphasized the importance of understanding between all parties involved. This gesture indicates that the rebels are committed to reaching a successful conclusion to the talks, despite previous calls for major changes to Colombia's political system. The opposing groups arrived in high-end black cars for the talks, which will occur almost daily until negotiations conclude. Journalists surrounded the bearded, glasses-wearing Marquez, along with other FARC delegates, including Dutch national Tanja Nijmeijer, in Havana's most luxurious neighborhood. Some FARC members wore clothing with the image of Simon Trinidad, a guerrilla negotiator imprisoned in the US, while others shouted slogans in support of the guerrilla army. The leader of the Colombian government delegation, Humberto de la Calle, greeted the crowd with a smile and wave, but did not speak. Speaking from Bogota, Colombian Defense Minister Juan Carlos Pinzon expressed skepticism regarding the FARC's ceasefire pledge. He stated that security forces have a responsibility to pursue all criminals who have violated the constitution, and doubted the terrorist group's sincerity based on their history of non-compliance. The 50-year war in Colombia has resulted in numerous casualties, displacements, and infrastructure damage, making a successful peace process crucial for the country's future stability and reputation. Failure to achieve peace would lead to more years of conflict and hinder Colombia's ability to attract foreign investment and assert regional influence. Residents in western Cauca province, which has been heavily affected by war, were happy to hear about the FARC ceasefire. Orlando Ramos, a resident in Miranda, Cauca, expressed his optimism on local television, hoping that the ceasefire would be permanent. The ceasefire announcement could benefit oil and mining companies, which have been targeted by FARC attacks in recent months. The war with FARC has been costly for Colombia, affecting the economy and making large areas of land unsafe. Eurasia Group's Latin America analyst Heather Berkman believes that a peace agreement with FARC could attract more sectors and investors to Colombia. The potential for agricultural production could significantly change the country's export industry, especially since both small and large-scale farmers can now utilize land that was previously inaccessible due to security concerns. Santos is pushing for a deal within nine months, but the rebels anticipate that the negotiation process will be lengthier. The two parties are confronted with numerous complex issues in their five-point plan, with rural development as the starting point. Past peace efforts have not been successful, but there is hope from both the government and the FARC that this time could be different. However, not everyone shares this optimism. Felix Lafaurie, the leader of Colombia's National Federation of Cattle Ranchers, cautioned on Colombian radio that the announcement should be viewed skeptically. He expressed hope that it would indicate the FARC's good intentions rather than leading to further disagreements on important matters. Although most Colombians support the peace process, they are doubtful of its success in the end. The talks represent a significant risk in President Santos' political career, with the outcome potentially affecting the 2014 election. The conflict originated in 1964 when the FARC was established as a communist agrarian movement aiming to address Colombia's history of social inequality. In the 1990s, the FARC had significant control over large areas of the country. However, in the early 2000s, with the help of billions of dollars in US aid, improved intelligence, and increased mobility, the government began to gain the upper hand in the war. Despite losing several top commanders and being pushed back into remote jungle hideouts, the FARC remains a formidable force and continues to launch attacks on security forces and economic infrastructure. Previous peace talks failed due to violence, with the government ending negotiations in 2002 after the FARC hijacked an airplane during the last attempt from 1999 to 2002. Juan Fernando Cristo, a senator of the Liberal Party, stated that the FARC has listened to the concerns of many Colombians who have been doubtful about its commitment to ending the war, considering its history. He expressed optimism about the future negotiations due to the FARC's decision to declare a unilateral truce. | 2 |
A senior Iranian legislator cautioned Western powers that they would soon need to acknowledge Iran's advancements in nuclear technology, as reported by Iran's state news agency on Saturday. The warning comes just days before talks are scheduled to resume on Iran's disputed nuclear program. Alaeddin Boroujerdi, who heads the parliamentary committee for national security and foreign policy, made these remarks at a ceremony in Mashhad honoring Iran's "nuclear martyrs" - scientists associated with Iran's nuclear program who have been targeted in attacks since 2010. Western nations have accused Tehran of secretly pursuing nuclear weapons, a charge that Iran has consistently denied. Both sides are scheduled to participate in negotiations this week in an attempt to address international concerns, though the location of the talks has yet to be determined. Boroujerdi emphasized that the P5+1 group of countries must reconsider their approach, as "confronting the Islamic Republic will not be to their benefit," as reported by IRNA news agency. Iran, being a respected nation, will continue discussing the topic of peaceful nuclear energy. It is believed that soon enough, countries like America and Europe, who are viewed as arrogant, will come to accept Iran's advancements in nuclear technology and its inclusion in the nuclear community. Despite facing threats and sanctions, Iran has made significant progress in its nuclear capabilities, excelling in various stages such as uranium mining, yellow cake production, centrifuge construction, and uranium gas injection. In a recent development, Iran successfully loaded domestically produced fuel rods into the Tehran Research Reactor for medical and agricultural purposes. Iran has consistently stated that its nuclear activities are in line with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty for peaceful purposes. However, if the International Atomic Energy Agency fails to uphold its commitments, Iran warns that its scientists are capable of building a reactor within the country. Speaking in front of the families of slain scientists, Boroujerdi cautioned that the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientists was ineffective. He stated that despite efforts by the Zionist regime, Arabs, and America to hinder Iran's progress, their evil actions would not deter the thousands of university students and professors in Iran from advancing in the field of nuclear science. A recent report from the IAEA revealed that Iran had significantly increased its production of higher grade enriched uranium, raising concerns about potential military intentions. While some analysts are skeptical of Iran's claims, experts believe that uranium enriched to 20 percent is a crucial step towards reaching the 90 percent threshold needed for nuclear explosions. The Islamic Republic of Iran has announced that it will use highly refined uranium to restock special fuel for a reactor in Tehran that produces vital medical isotopes for cancer patients in the country. In response to Iran's enrichment activities, the United States and its allies have implemented new sanctions on Iran's financial and energy sectors. Israel has threatened military action to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, while US President Barack Obama has stressed the importance of pursuing a diplomatic solution. The next round of negotiations between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries, including the permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany, was scheduled for April 13 but a location has not been agreed upon. | 2 |
According to interviews conducted by Reuters with activist investors and fund managers, it is expected that votes related to climate change will receive more support this year from large asset managers who are seeking clarity on how executives intend to thrive in a low-carbon world. In the United States, there have been 79 climate-related resolutions filed by shareholders so far, which is higher than the total number filed in 2020 and 2019. The Sustainable Investments Institute estimates that this number could reach 90 by the end of the year. These resolutions cover topics such as emissions limits, pollution reports, and climate audits that demonstrate the financial impact of climate change on businesses. The overarching goal is to urge companies in various sectors, including oil, transportation, food, and beverage, to outline their plans for reducing their carbon footprints in the coming years, aligning with government commitments to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Billionaire British hedge fund manager Chris Hohn believes that setting net-zero targets for 2050 without a credible plan with short-term goals is considered greenwashing, and shareholders should hold companies accountable. Hohn is advocating for companies worldwide to have a recurring shareholder vote on their climate plans. Some companies argue that they already provide sufficient information on climate issues, but activists are noticing that more executives seem willing to make deals this year. Royal Dutch Shell, Spanish airports operator Aena, UK consumer goods company Unilever, and US rating agency Moody's have all announced plans to offer shareholder votes on climate plans. Although these resolutions are typically non-binding, they often lead to changes when supported by 30% or more of investors, prompting executives to make adjustments to satisfy as many shareholders as possible. Daniele Vitale, head of governance for Georgeson in London, stated that the calls for increased disclosure and target-setting are more precise than in 2020. Many companies are now setting net-zero targets for 2050, aligning with the Paris climate accord, but few have established interim targets. A study by South Pole found that only 10% of 120 companies surveyed had done so. Mirza Baig, from Aviva Investors, noted the lack of clarity on companies' plans and the speed of progress. Data from J Safra Sarasin reveals the significant challenge ahead. Sarasin conducted a study on the emissions of approximately 1,500 companies in the MSCI World Index, which represents the world's listed companies. The study concluded that if companies worldwide do not reduce their emissions, global temperatures could increase by more than 3 degrees Celsius by 2050. This projection falls short of the goals set by the Paris accord, which aims to limit warming to below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably 1.5 degrees Celsius. The study also revealed significant variations in emissions among different industries. For instance, if all companies emitted at the same rate as the energy sector, global temperatures could rise by 5.8 degrees Celsius. The materials sector, which includes metals and mining, is projected to contribute to a 5.5-degree Celsius increase, while consumer staples, such as food and drink companies, are on track for a 4.7-degree Celsius rise. The calculations were primarily based on companies' reported emissions in 2019, covering Scope 1 and 2 emissions - those directly caused by the company, as well as the electricity it purchases and uses. Sectors with high carbon emissions will likely face increased investor pressure for transparency, as demonstrated by ExxonMobil's disclosure of its Scope 3 emissions in January. This move led Calpers to withdraw a shareholder resolution, signaling a trend of companies making agreements with activist investors on climate concerns. Calpers' Simiso Nzima sees 2021 as a promising year for climate action, but Exxon has requested to skip votes on four other shareholder proposals, including three related to climate issues. They mention reasons such as the company having already made significant reforms. An Exxon representative stated that ongoing discussions with stakeholders led to the disclosure of emissions. He did not comment on requests to skip votes, nor did the SEC, which had not made a ruling on Exxon's requests as of late Tuesday. Activists are hopeful for more action from BlackRock, the world's largest investor with $8.7 trillion in assets, who has pledged to take a stricter stance on climate issues. Last week, BlackRock urged boards to develop a climate plan, release emissions data, and set strong short-term targets, warning that directors could face opposition at the AGM if not compliant. BlackRock supported a resolution at Procter & Gamble's AGM in October, asking the company to report on efforts to eliminate deforestation in its supply chains, which passed with 68% support. Green Century Capital Management hopes this is a positive sign for the future. When asked about its plans for 2021 and supporting resolutions, BlackRock stated it would assess each proposal on a case-by-case basis. Amundi also announced it would back more resolutions, while Vanguard appeared less certain. Lisa Harlow, who is Vanguard's stewardship leader for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, expressed uncertainty about whether the support for climate resolutions this year would surpass the usual rate of backing one in ten. In an effort to assess climate progress through annual shareholder votes, Britain's Hohn, the founder of a $30 billion hedge fund TCI, aims to establish a regular mechanism. This mechanism, known as a "Say on Climate" resolution, involves investors requesting a company to present a detailed net zero plan with short-term targets for an annual non-binding vote. If investors are not satisfied, they would have stronger grounds to vote down directors. The initiative seems to be gaining traction. Hohn has submitted seven resolutions through TCI and plans to file over 100 resolutions in various countries with the help of The Children's Investment Fund Foundation. Hohn is confident that despite facing opposition, they can secure enough votes to support the Say on Climate. | 2 |
At the 170-nation climate talks in Bonn, proposals are being discussed to extend a UN program that helps developing nations build nuclear power plants in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This option is a controversial one, as it involves rich nations investing in projects like wind farms in India or hydropower dams in Peru and receiving credit for reducing emissions in their own countries. Yvo de Boer, head of the U.N. Climate Change Secretariat, stated that nuclear energy aid is being considered along with other suggestions such as carbon capture and storage from coal-fired power plants, and increasing efforts to promote forestation to absorb carbon dioxide. Numerous countries and environmentalists are against the idea of extending the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to incorporate nuclear energy. The CDM is a component of the United Nations' Kyoto Protocol which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions until 2012. According to Martin Hiller from the WWF conservation group, nuclear power is not considered as the future of energy and therefore should not be included in the CDM. He believes that the CDM should focus on promoting renewable energy sources instead. He expressed concerns about the dangers of nuclear power, despite its minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to burning coal, oil, and gas. Discussions in Bonn, part of negotiations for a new long-term U.N. climate treaty to succeed the Kyoto Protocol, will not include decisions on restructuring the CDM. Many delegates do not support including nuclear power in the CDM. There is uncertainty about whether nuclear power should be considered as an alternative to fossil fuels in the effort to combat rising temperatures and their associated consequences. De Boer estimated that the CDM could provide up to $100 billion annually to developing nations in the future if industrialized countries agreed to significant emissions cuts and allocated half of their reductions to foreign countries. That was also assuming that credits for preventing greenhouse gas emissions would be around $10 per tonne. Currently, the CDM has approved or is considering projects that would prevent a total of 2.7 billion tonnes of emissions by 2012, which is roughly equal to the annual emissions of Japan, Germany, and Britain combined. De Boer dismissed criticisms that the CDM was flawed, such as accusations of benefiting carbon traders and companies in China that destroy HFC 23, a potent greenhouse gas produced during refrigerant manufacturing. He argued that finding a way to profitably eliminate a potent greenhouse gas is not unethical, as it demonstrates the success of creating a market mechanism. Additional criticisms of the program center around whether the funding allocated has actually resulted in reductions of emissions, or if these reductions would have occurred regardless due to preexisting government support for wind power in countries like China and India. | 2 |
The pandemic in France and Austria led to a focus on the debate between planes and trains. The French government's COVID bailout for Air France required the airline to stop domestic flights when a train option of under 2 1/2 hours was available, later becoming law. Similarly, the Austrian government imposed a similar condition on Austrian Airlines, ending the 50-minute flight between Vienna and Salzburg in favor of a three-hour train journey. The European Commission declared 2021 as the "Year of European Rail" to promote train travel, especially to a younger audience. Despite passenger traffic increasing steadily until 2019, it was still relatively low with only 8% of all passenger travel in the European Union being by train before the pandemic. European leaders are not only focusing on public relations to promote cross-border train travel, but they are also working on reducing practical barriers by implementing new data-sharing systems, updating infrastructure, and constructing new high-speed routes, especially in Central and Eastern Europe. Alberto Mazzola, the executive director of the Community of European Railways and Infrastructure Companies, based in Brussels, emphasized the goal of making train travel the preferred choice for trips under four hours for businesspeople and under six hours for tourists. Government leaders are now showing strong support for railway infrastructure, particularly high-speed lines, with significant investments being made. Night trains in Europe are also becoming increasingly popular, contributing to the growing trend of rail travel on the continent. Since the 1990s, overnight services have been on the decline due to the rise of low-cost air carriers and increased government investment in high-speed trains. However, there has been a recent resurgence in night trains across Europe, with new sleeper connections emerging. Alain Krakovitch, director of travel at SNCF, France's state-owned railway company, noted a strong demand for night trains from customers, elected officials, mayors, and the government. SNCF recently reintroduced overnight services between Paris and Nice, offering tickets as low as 19 euros, compared to 31 euros for a short flight on EasyJet. SNCF provides overnight services between Paris and Toulouse, as well as between Paris and Lourdes in southwestern France. In July and August, a night train to Hendaye, a coastal town near the Spanish border, will be available. Starting in December 2023, there will be a change-free overnight service between Paris and Berlin, a journey that currently takes eight hours and requires at least one change. This service is a collaborative effort among four European operators and has already seen strong demand, according to Krakovitch. Passengers are drawn to the convenience of these overnight services. Krakovitch explained that the convenience of falling asleep in Paris and waking up in Nice can save a night in a hotel, allowing travelers to arrive in Nice early without feeling tired. Despite the initial heavy investment to relaunch this service, there are numerous benefits. The Swiss Federal Railways also introduced a new overnight connection from Zurich to Amsterdam, expanding their overnight services to various European destinations such as Berlin, Budapest, Prague, and Zagreb. This momentum is hoped to be maintained in the future. European Sleeper, a company founded by two entrepreneurs from the Netherlands and Belgium, is in the process of planning an overnight service that will connect Brussels and Prague, with stops in cities such as Amsterdam and Berlin. The service is expected to launch this summer, although the exact start date has not been confirmed. Meanwhile, ÖBB's Nightjet service has recently introduced an overnight route between Vienna and Paris, offering tickets that range from around 30 euros for a regular train seat to over 200 euros for a first-class private cabin, depending on the travel date. In comparison, a midweek, low-season flight on the same route with Transavia costs 44 euros, excluding baggage fees. Nightjet also operates overnight services to destinations like Rome, Milan, Brussels, and Amsterdam, providing passengers with the option to book private compartments. Some cabins even come equipped with a private shower and toilet. Prices vary based on the amenities offered, with a couple traveling from Vienna to Amsterdam on a weeknight in July able to book two seats in a private compartment for a total of 129 euros. Another option available is a two-bed sleeper cabin for 378 euros for both passengers, which includes breakfast. If a private shower and toilet are added, the price increases to 418 euros. Currently, all of the Nightjet trains are in use, but new services are expected to be introduced in the future, with more than 30 new sleeper trains scheduled to be delivered starting in 2023. Despite the benefits of night trains in providing new travel options, they are limited to specific routes. There are still challenges for people seeking to travel between cities not connected by rail networks, including difficulties in booking tickets and high prices. Some long-distance trips with multiple stops are cheaper by plane than by train. Despite the European Union's support for rail, governments in the bloc continue to provide significant subsidies to airlines in the form of bailout packages and low taxes on jet fuel, though this may change soon. While France and Austria have banned short-haul flights on certain routes, the impact has been limited, with only a few routes affected in each country. In France, passengers can still fly these routes as part of a longer journey. Herwig Schuster, a transport campaigner for Greenpeace's EU Mobility for All campaign, suggested that the European Union should consider banning flights with a train alternative that takes under six hours, rather than just two or three, as a starting point. This measure could eliminate about one-third of Europe's most popular short-haul routes. Schuster noted that consumers are open to such a change, with a recent climate survey showing that 62% of Europeans support a ban on short-haul flights. However, he acknowledged that ensuring rail options are as affordable as flights would be a challenge. Currently, flying is often the cheaper option on several European routes, especially longer-distance trips that cross multiple national borders. For example, a one-way flight from Zurich to Barcelona can cost as little as 45 euros on a low-cost carrier, compared to 140 euros (and more time) to travel the same distance by rail. Similarly, flying is usually more affordable for routes like London to Madrid, Copenhagen to Rome, and Paris to Budapest. Mark Smith, who manages The Man in Seat 61 website, noted that Europe's extensive rail network not having a unified ticketing system is a challenge. He pointed out that trains can offer good value compared to planes, especially when factoring in baggage fees and transportation costs to and from the airport. Smith advised booking train tickets in advance, similar to flights, to save money and avoid last-minute price increases. He suggested using websites like Trainline and Rail Europe for booking multicountry train trips in Europe. Despite potentially higher ticket prices, many travelers still choose trains for their long-distance travel. Smith mentioned that when he launched his website two decades ago, individuals interested in long-distance train travel were typically either fearful of flying or unable to do so due to medical reasons. However, nowadays, he notes a shift in people's reasons for choosing train travel. According to Smith, individuals are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with the airport and airline experience and are seeking a less stressful and more engaging alternative. Additionally, there is a growing desire among travelers to reduce their carbon footprint. | 2 |
The agency has upgraded India's rating to Baa2 from Baa3 and changed the rating outlook to stable from positive, citing balanced risks to India's credit profile. This upgrade, the first by Moody's since January 2004, puts India at the second-lowest investment grade, above Standard & Poor's and Fitch. The decision by Moody's is seen as a recognition of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government and its reforms. Just weeks after India moved up 30 places in the World Bank's ease of doing business rankings, Indian stocks, bonds, and the rupee all saw gains. Lakshmi Iyer, head of fixed income at Kotak Mutual Fund, likened the situation to Santa Claus delivering early gifts. The upgrade in ratings is a positive development for bonds that were previously in a negative trend. This improvement is expected to result in lower yields across various time periods. India had pushed hard for an upgrade from Moody's last year, but was unsuccessful due to concerns about debt levels and banks. Despite government criticism, the agency did not change its rating methodology. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley sees the upgrade as a recognition of the government's efforts to improve the economy. Prime Minister Modi's colleagues view it as another success for him, especially following a recent survey showing high approval ratings for him among Indians. Some economists believe that other major rating agencies, such as Fitch and S&P, are unlikely to upgrade India's rating soon. Radhika Rao from DBS pointed out that slow growth, a struggling rural sector, weak investment, and increased oil prices are posing risks to the economy. She mentioned that Fitch and S&P have expressed concerns about the financial situations of state and central governments. Jaitley, the finance minister, stated that the government will continue with fiscal consolidation, aiming for a fiscal deficit of 3.2 percent of GDP for the current fiscal year, and 3 percent for the following year. He stated that they will continue to adhere to fiscal discipline and expressed confidence that current policies will help India improve its financial position. Moody's upgraded the ratings of several Indian banks and energy companies, as well as the National Highways Authority of India, which could reduce their borrowing costs. The bond yield and the value of the rupee improved, and the stock market in Mumbai closed higher. However, debt traders warned that due to increased bond supply and inflation concerns, the market rally may not last long. A bond trader at a private bank questioned who would be brave enough to continue purchasing in the current market. Moody's stated that the introduction of the goods and services tax in India would increase productivity by eliminating barriers to trade between states. Marie Diron from Moody's said the upgrade considered the potential impact of the tax reform on growth. Moody's also took into account a higher government deficit, believing in the government's commitment to fiscal consolidation. However, some market participants expressed doubts about the timing of the upgrade, with concerns about the government's fiscal discipline. Moody's predicted India's GDP growth to decrease to 6.7 percent in the fiscal year ending in March 2018, compared to 7.1 percent the previous year. The agency also upgraded India's local currency senior unsecured debt rating to Baa2 from Baa3 and its short-term local currency rating to P-2 from P-3. Moody's stated that although some important reforms are still in the early stages, the ones already in place are expected to help the government achieve its goal of improving the business environment, increasing productivity, and encouraging investment. Moody's also mentioned that in the long run, India's growth potential is much higher than that of most other Baa-rated countries. | 2 |
The mountain, scribbled on a piece of cardboard, served as the backdrop for her online show during the Leicester Comedy Festival. Ives explained that it was not just a prop but a symbolic representation of the daily struggles faced by transgender individuals in Britain. She compared these struggles to climbing a hill while dealing with constant attacks. Despite the challenging topic, Ives assured that she was well-equipped to tackle it as a transgender person herself. Transgender visibility has increased in British culture, but this has also led to opposition to transgender rights in various forms of media. In the realm of stand-up comedy, where societal issues are often addressed, transgender issues have frequently been treated as a joke. During a recent phone interview, Jen Ives, a trans comedian, discussed her experience on stage and the pressure she felt to represent her community while just wanting to tell jokes. In Britain, unlike in the United States, both the political left and right have expressed concerns about allowing transgender women to use bathrooms that align with their gender identity, citing safety issues. JK Rowling, the author of the "Harry Potter" books, has been a prominent figure making such claims, leading to accusations of transphobia. In a 2018 study from UCLA, concerns about safety and privacy were found to be unfounded. Dan Healey, a scholar at the University of Oxford's Centre for Gender, Identity, and Subjectivity, stated in a phone interview that the discussion surrounding transgender rights in Britain is more prominent than in the United States. He explained that there is a debate among feminist groups in Britain about accepting transgender women as women. British comedian Jen Ives, who was in London on Feb 24, 2021, expressed concern that feminists who do not accept trans women are questioning their humanity. She stated that there seems to be an effort in the UK to dehumanize trans individuals. "We are often seen as something other than human. People see us as a topic of debate, an agenda, or a passing fad," Ives, who is 30 years old, expressed. She has been discussing her experience as a transgender person on stage since she began doing stand-up comedy in 2017, and it seemed that audiences appreciated someone addressing the topic. She explained that her show, "Peak Trans," was created in response to the negative atmosphere in Britain. "If you can make someone laugh, you may not change their beliefs, but you can at least show them that you are a real person," she said. In her performance, even when discussing the discrimination against transgender individuals, Ives always included lighthearted jokes. She mentioned that being transgender is not the only aspect of her identity, also revealing that she is a vegetarian. Despite wanting to go vegan, she decided not to in order to spare her father any additional stress. Transgender comedians have been performing in British comedy for many years. Eddie Izzard, a well-known figure, made headlines by stating she prefers she/her pronouns and wants to present as female. Debra-Jane Appleby, a trans stand-up comedian, won the Funny Women comedy award in 2005, while Bethany Black has been a fixture in British comedy for almost twenty years. Black has stated that people generally do not care about her being transgender, and she laughed when reminded of this during a recent interview. "Yeah, that has changed quite a bit," she remarked. In the past, there was a belief that there were only a small number of transsexuals in the world, maybe around 10 or 15, she explained. However, now the perception has shifted to thinking that they are more prevalent and are actively trying to participate in sports. Despite making jokes about transphobia during her performances, Black admitted that the ongoing debate surrounding transgender individuals in Britain has had a negative impact on her. She revealed that she was diagnosed with agoraphobia a few years ago, attributing a significant part of it to constantly feeling like she is fighting a battle. Additionally, Black expressed frustration with comedians and TV shows that rely on making cheap jokes about transgender people. James Acaster made fun of how many high-profile comedians use those types of jokes in their routines. However, many comedians would avoid making those jokes when they were performing on the same lineup as she was, according to Black. Despite claiming to be bold and pro-free speech, many comedians would not make those jokes when she was also performing. One exception to this was comedian Adam Rowe, who has a routine about Victoria's Secret not casting transgender or plus-size models in its shows. In a photo taken remotely, British comedian Bethany Black is shown on Feb 25, 2021. Black commented on the challenges of being transgender, stating that it is a daily reality for her, not just a hypothetical situation. She mentioned that many British comedians make jokes about transgender individuals, although they tend to avoid doing so when she is also performing. Brian, your hands are compared to shovels. Bethany Black, a British comedian who is transgender, spoke about her experiences and the jokes made about trans people by British comedians. Despite this, when she is on the lineup, those jokes are usually avoided. Rowe, in an email, defended the joke. He stated that the routine was not transphobic, but rather intended to trick those who are not paying attention into thinking it is. He mentioned that people often get caught up in buzzwords. Ives pointed out that she has seen non-trans comedians perform trans material that was funny, as she can laugh at herself. However, she also noted that it can sometimes feel like a cheap shot. She shared instances when she had to follow male comedians who made jokes about transgender women on stage, and she would usually respond by mocking them. Ives explained that this was her way of dealing with a difficult situation. "I would prefer not to." In her most recent performance, Ives slowly guided her audience through a metaphorical journey to the Peak Trans, pausing to poke fun at transgender individuals in sports and her own experience coming out. However, as they neared the summit, one topic came into focus. Apologizing, Ives announced, "We need to discuss JK Rowling." She started off with a joke about Rowling's latest novel "Troubled Blood," which includes a male killer who pretends to be a woman. Ives expressed her desire to be an activist and speak out against it, but noted the challenge given the book's length of 1,000 pages. Ives stated that Rowling's intention was for individuals like herself to avoid using women's spaces and instead use men's toilets. Ives then made a comparison between trans women and spiders, noting that they are both often more afraid of others than others are of them. | 2 |
The most severe financial crisis in 80 years is causing turmoil in emerging markets, leading to emergency actions by central banks and calls for international assistance to prevent investor panic. In the United States, companies like AT&T Inc and Boeing reported disappointing earnings, while Merck & Co announced plans to cut 7,200 jobs. Wachovia Corp, a struggling US bank being acquired by Wells Fargo & Co, suffered a record $23.9 billion loss in the third quarter. Emerging market stocks, debt, and currencies are all facing significant pressure as investors react to concerns about the global economy. Despite efforts by authorities worldwide to stabilize the financial system, fears of a global recession are still looming large. Hungary increased interest rates by three percentage points to protect its currency, the forint. Belarus requested credit from the International Monetary Fund, while Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko anticipated significant financial assistance from the IMF. The IMF is also prepared to assist Pakistan and Iceland, which are facing economic challenges. Neil Dougall, chief emerging markets economist at Dresdner Kleinwort, noted that capital is shifting from emerging markets to developed markets. Despite the problems, officials expressed optimism about the financial crisis, with U.S. Treasury Undersecretary David McCormick stating that the U.S. economy could start to recover late next year. Mervyn King, governor of the Bank of England, also suggested that the worst may be over for the financial system. The goal, according to McCormick, is to restore confidence in the financial markets. He mentioned on Tuesday that we still have a long way to go before stability is fully restored. However, he expressed confidence that the plan to strengthen our banking system, both domestically and internationally, will be recognized as a turning point in overcoming the banking crisis of the past year. This optimism was supported by a decrease in U.S. dollar short-term funding costs in London and Asia, indicating that banks are starting to rebuild trust in one another. Russia, a growing economic power, also reported progress in bank lending, with interbank lending returning to normal. The rates, although high, are beginning to decrease as banks resume lending to various sectors. According to First Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov, it will take two to three weeks for the situation to start improving. However, there is a looming fear of a recession due to the deteriorating global economic climate, despite progress made in preventing financial collapse. The Bank of England's recent meeting minutes mentioned a substantial deterioration in the UK economy, with Governor King suggesting that the country may be entering its first recession in 16 years. Financial markets were hit with worries leading to a poor start for Wall Street, as indicated by the significant decreases in Dow Jones industrial average futures, European shares, and Japan's Nikkei average. Emerging markets also experienced challenges, with MSCI's sector index dropping to its lowest point in over a decade and sovereign debt spreads widening. Additionally, several currencies, including the Turkish lira and South Africa's rand, suffered losses against the dollar. Sanjay Mathur, an economist at the Royal Bank of Scotland in Singapore, stated that the challenges of a business cycle downturn will likely be severe. Various US companies reported their quarterly results on Wednesday, offering a glimpse into the state of different industries and sectors in the world's largest economy. Despite some companies like Philip Morris International, Reynolds American Inc, and McDonald's Corp surpassing analysts' expectations with their profits, they were seen as exceptions in an overall bleak economic outlook. | 2 |
Michael Strizki is able to heat and cool his home year-round, run various appliances, and even power a hot tub and wide-screen TV without having to pay any utility bills. His house in New Jersey is the first in the US to demonstrate that a mix of solar and hydrogen power can provide all the necessary electricity for a household. The Hopewell Project, located near a town of the same name, is a response to growing concerns about US energy security and the environmental impact of fossil fuels. Gian-Paolo Caminiti of Renewable Energy International, the project's commercial arm, believes that taking action against climate change can have a positive impact and provide a sense of fulfillment. Strizki operates a 3,000-square-foot house using electricity from a 1,000-square-foot roof covered in photovoltaic cells, an electrolyzer that converts solar power into hydrogen from water, and hydrogen tanks to store the gas for later use. During the summer, the solar panels generate excess electricity which is stored as hydrogen for use in the winter when solar power alone is not enough to meet the house's needs. Strizki also uses the hydrogen to power his fuel-cell car, which is environmentally friendly. Solar power currently only accounts for 0.1 percent of US energy needs, but the number of photovoltaic installations is increasing and the cost of solar panels is decreasing annually. As the cost of fossil fuels continues to decrease and the search for cleaner alternatives accelerates, some analysts believe that solar energy is on track for a significant expansion in the next five to 10 years. The New Jersey project, which was completed in October 2006 after four years of planning and construction, had a total cost of approximately $500,000, with $225,000 funded by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. New Jersey, a strong advocate for renewable energy, has a goal of obtaining 20 percent of its energy from renewables by 2020 and currently has the second largest number of solar-power installations in the US, behind only California. The state's utility regulator supported the project as it aligns with New Jersey's renewable energy objectives, according to Doyal Siddell, a spokesperson for the agency. He stated that the solar-hydrogen residence project presents a significant opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. The project received support from various commercial sponsors, including Exide and Swageloc, who provided equipment and expertise. Strizki also contributed $100,000 of his own money. While the initial cost may be prohibitive for many, Strizki and his team emphasize that the project is meant to be replicated and that the prototype's price is higher than what imitators would pay. After covering research and design expenses, the estimated cost would be around $100,000. However, this price is still considered too high for widespread replication, according to Marchant Wentworth of the Union of Concerned Scientists. In order for such installations to be widely adopted, they would need to have the capability to sell excess power to the grid, creating a source of income that could attract investors, according to Wentworth. Caminiti argues that the hydrogen/solar system costs about $4,000 per year when the $100,000 initial cost is spread out over the expected 25-year lifespan of the equipment. This is significantly higher than the average US homeowner's annual energy expenditure of $1,500, as reported by the government. Even when factoring in gasoline costs of around $1,000 per car annually, the renewable energy option remains more expensive than a combination of grid and gasoline. For Strizki and his team, the significance of the house goes beyond just financial considerations. It represents a commitment to energy security in a time when the government is aiming to lessen reliance on Middle Eastern fossil fuels, and it symbolizes a sustainable lifestyle that does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Strizki, who is 51 years old, views this project as his life's purpose, stating, "I have devoted myself to improving the environment." | 2 |
The Hong Kong government did not provide a reason for their decision to not renew Victor Mallet's work visa, according to a statement by The Financial Times. This situation is unprecedented in Hong Kong, and the government has not given any explanation for the rejection. The Immigration Department stated that they make decisions on visa applications based on individual circumstances and existing policies. Mallet, a British citizen, is the first vice president of the Hong Kong Foreign Correspondents' Club and faced criticism from local and mainland Chinese officials for hosting a talk by a Hong Kong independence advocate in August. Mainland China often denies work visas to foreign journalists and media organizations as a form of punishment, but Hong Kong, which has stronger protections for civil liberties, has traditionally been more tolerant. The decision to expel Mallet has raised concerns among human rights advocates, who see it as eroding the distinction between Hong Kong and mainland China. This move, unprecedented in Hong Kong, is expected to have a negative impact on freedom of expression in the city, according to experts. Ng stated that as Beijing continues to change the boundaries of what topics are considered 'sensitive' and off-limits, there is a growing pressure for both institutions and individuals to practice self-censorship. This, in turn, poses a threat to free expression and the free exchange of ideas in Hong Kong, impacting its reputation as an open and law-abiding 'world' city. He believes that the expulsion of the Foreign Correspondents' Club was a clear act of retaliation by the authorities in response to the Club hosting a talk by Andy Chan, the leader of a political party advocating for Hong Kong's independence from China. The Hong Kong government had already expressed its intention to ban Chan's party, the Hong Kong National Party, under an old law that allows the prohibition of groups for reasons related to national security, public safety, or public order. Both Hong Kong and Chinese officials criticized the event. Leung Chun-ying, who served as the city's top official from 2012 to 2017, compared the talk to hosting supporters of racist or anti-Semitic ideologies, and suggested that the Hong Kong government should reconsider the lease of the FCC's clubhouse in a historically significant, publicly owned building in central Hong Kong. Mallet, an experienced Financial Times editor who previously served as the newspaper's bureau chief in New Delhi, stated during Chan's talk that the club viewed it as a regular event related to an important news story in Hong Kong. He expressed that the overwhelming interest and controversy surrounding the lunch indicated more about the political atmosphere in Hong Kong and Beijing than it did about the FCC itself. Last month, Hong Kong banned Chan's political party. According to the law, a person claiming to be a member of the party could face up to three years in prison, and providing a meeting place for the group could result in up to a year of imprisonment for a first offense. Hong Kong, which has its own immigration policies and internal border with China, has previously denied visas to academics and political activists. In the past, Taiwan scholars and leaders of protests against a trade bill with China were also denied entry. The recent denial of a visa renewal for a foreign journalist from The Financial Times marks an expansion of these restrictions, as no foreign journalist has previously been expelled from Hong Kong. In 2011, authorities in Hong Kong declined to grant a work visa to Chang Ping, a well-known journalist from mainland China who had secured a position at a Hong Kong newspaper. This type of treatment towards foreign journalists is much more common in mainland China. For instance, Megha Rajagopalan, who served as the China bureau chief for BussFeed News and wrote about the mass detention of Uighurs and other Muslim minorities in western China, did not receive a new journalist visa this year. Similarly, Ursula Gauthier, a reporter in Beijing for the French newsweekly L’Obs, had her visa renewal denied in 2015 after questioning China’s treatment of Uighurs. Additionally, The New York Times and Bloomberg faced obstacles in obtaining new journalist visas in China following their reports in 2012 on the wealth accumulated by the families of Chinese leaders. Vice President Mike Pence delivered a speech on Thursday criticizing China for its limitations on foreign journalists, stating that these restrictions are a tactic used by the Communist Party to promote censorship. | 2 |
Bulgarians cast their votes in a parliamentary election on Sunday in hopes of jumpstarting reforms to address corruption and revive an economy suffering from the global crisis. Polls suggest that the Socialist party in power is likely to lose due to the country's recession and a culture of impunity for criminals and politicians, leading to Bulgaria being considered the EU's problem child. The center-right opposition party led by Sofia Mayor Boiko Borisov is expected to have a chance at forming a new government, potentially through a coalition. Borisov, a former bodyguard turned politician, has pledged to crack down on crime, but concerns remain about his ability to implement reforms in a coalition government. Pollsters say that his party currently receives around 30 percent of the vote, while the ruling Socialists receive about 20 percent. Former teacher Pepa Kozhuharova, 64, expressed her frustration with the government as she voted in a Sofia neighborhood, stating that the country is in need of change and that corrupt politicians are no longer wanted. Borisov, known for his straightforward approach and nicknamed Batman for his proactive nature, has garnered support from many Bulgarians who are tired of the slow reforms of the past two decades. Maria Nikolova, age 50, explained that she supported Boiko because he is the only man who can clearly identify what is right and wrong and take action on it. She emphasized the urgent need for a new government in Sofia to prevent new EU sanctions, secure aid for Bulgaria's struggling economy, and attract investors who have left the country. There is uncertainty about whether GERB will have enough votes for a stable majority in the 240-seat chamber, even with their planned coalition partners from the Blue Coalition. The current government, while successful in leading Bulgaria into the EU, cutting taxes, and maintaining fiscal discipline, has been criticized for being inefficient and failing to address corruption within the government. Prosecutors are investigating widespread claims of vote-buying by all parties before the election, resulting in the arrest of at least five individuals. EU countries are concerned about suspected criminals running for parliament to avoid prosecution and jail time. Bulgaria, hit hard by the financial crisis, is now in recession after years of growth, leading to mass protests. Unemployment is rising and private spending is decreasing, causing a significant amount of debt. The economy is expected to shrink by 2 percent in 2009, and Bulgaria may seek aid from the International Monetary Fund, according to analysts. Voting began at 6 a.m. (11 p.m. EDT on Sunday) and will conclude at 7 p.m., followed by the release of exit polls. By 6 a.m. EDT, the turnout was recorded at 29.3 percent. | 2 |
The World Bank announced on Saturday that the financing will benefit rural communities by reducing poverty and creating new opportunities for livelihood. The funds will also support local communities in Cox's Bazar who are hosting Rohingya refugees from Myanmar. According to Qimiao Fan, the World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal, the projects will specifically target vulnerable populations and help them escape poverty, while also enhancing the country's ability to adapt to climate change. The Sustainable Forests & Livelihoods Project, which will receive $175 million, aims to increase forest cover by involving local communities in collaborative forest management and planting trees in 79,000 hectares of forest, including a coastal green belt to boost climate change resilience. Madhavi Pillai, a World Bank Senior Natural Resources Management Specialist, stated that the project aims to increase income for approximately 40,000 households in various districts of Bangladesh, including Cox's Bazar where many Rohingya refugees have sought shelter. The project will focus on developing and implementing protected area management plans for 10 Protected Forest Areas with the participation of community members. The $240 million Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries Project by the World Bank will work towards enhancing fisheries management, promoting mariculture, and enhancing aquaculture biosecurity and productivity in 10 coastal districts. Additionally, the project will support female workers through alternative livelihoods, skills training, and nutrition education. The overall goal of the project is to enhance fisheries management systems, infrastructure, and value chain investments. Milen Dyoulgerov, the World Bank Senior Environment Specialist and Task Team Leader for the project, stated that this will lead to increased productivity and availability of fish. An additional $100 million in financing for the Second Rural Transport Improvement Project will aid in the rehabilitation of rural roads in 26 districts affected by heavy rainfall and floods last year. The project has already repaired over 5,000 km of rural roads, benefiting numerous individuals in accessing markets, hospitals, and schools. The financing will prioritize climate-resilience in the planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of the roads. | 2 |
The 16-year-old Swedish activist expressed disappointment in world leaders for their lack of substantial plans and empty promises at a large rally in Montreal. She vowed to continue striking and marching until they start listening to the concerns of young people. Despite being mocked by Trump and criticized by Canadian Member of Parliament Maxime Bernier, Thunberg believes that those who try to silence them are threatened by their message. "We should view that as a compliment," she said. The climate strikes she sparked began in Asia on Friday and then moved on to Europe, following similar strikes the previous week. In New Zealand, tens of thousands of students initiated the movement. In Seoul, South Korea, around 500 students called for increased government efforts to combat climate change. They marched towards the Blue House after a protest downtown, where they criticized the government's lack of action. In the Netherlands, thousands of children skipped school to participate in a global climate strike, questioning their leaders with the words "how dare you?" as they blocked traffic. Matthew McMillan, a 22-year-old mechanical engineering student at Concordia University in Montreal, referenced Greta Thunberg's speech at the United Nations by holding a "Make America Greta Again" poster at a protest. He believed it was a crucial event for their generation. Nine-year-old Xavier Damien Tremblay and his family also participated in the protest, holding placards and chanting "protect the planet" because they felt it was essential to safeguard the Earth. Trudeau meets with Thunberg in Canada ahead of federal election, discussing the need for more action on climate change. Thunberg urges politicians, including Trudeau, to listen to and act on scientific evidence. Trudeau is vowing to take further action on climate change, but he is also facing criticism for his choice to purchase and enlarge a significant oil pipeline in western Canada. During one of Trudeau's campaign events, a man shouted, "You are the problem! Climate criminal!" and was removed by police. At a Montreal protest that the prime minister attended, another man attempted to throw eggs at him and was apprehended by police. Video footage showed Trudeau comforting his son, who appeared scared and was crying after an incident. Trudeau mentioned having a positive discussion with Thunberg about the urgent need to take more action. Leaders in the aviation industry are meeting in Montreal to discuss ways to reduce the sector's impact on climate change. Commercial flights currently contribute 2.5% of carbon emissions, and with passenger numbers expected to double by 2037, experts warn that emissions will increase unless more is done. ICAO expressed support for the recent climate march, stating that greater action and innovation are necessary to address the environmental impacts of aviation in both the short and long term. | 2 |
They appeared to be helpful, but Martha Agbani, the leader of the women, sensed danger and instructed them to let the women carry instead. This was not the first encounter with these men in Yaataah, a small hill in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, and she knew that their offer came with a threat: if she did not pay them, there would be consequences. Agbani's main objective was to provide employment opportunities for the women. Throughout her life, she had witnessed the hardships faced by women from Ogoniland in the oil-rich Niger Delta who had to fight to be heard and make a living. And she was determined to ensure that men would not interfere with her new project: creating a large nursery to cultivate hundreds of thousands of mangrove plants for sale to the Nigerian branch of Royal Dutch Shell, the leading oil company in Ogoniland that had previously destroyed many of them. Agbani, a resilient woman with a cheerful demeanor and a kind yet firm attitude, was attempting to start a business that could empower women financially and help restore their damaged environment. Mangroves have impressive natural abilities, purifying brackish water, preventing coastal erosion, and providing a safe breeding area for aquatic life that sustains humans. The Niger Delta is home to one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in the world, which humans had coexisted with harmoniously for centuries. However, with the rise of oil production — a key revenue source for the Nigerian government — the mangrove forests suffered. In 2011, the United Nations Environment Program released a detailed report on pollution in Ogoniland, stating that it could take up to 30 years to address. However, the government-run Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, tasked with cleaning up the affected land and water, has been slow to take action. Following devastating oil spills in 2007 and 2008 near the village of Bodo that wiped out thousands of acres of mangrove forests, Shell agreed to compensate the community, clean up the oil, and replant the mangroves. Agbani saw an opportunity in this situation, as the company would require a large number of mangroves to restore the damaged ecosystem and habitat for marine life in the Niger Delta. She began by growing mangroves in her own yard before searching for a location to establish a nursery. This led her to Yaataah, where the once lush mangrove forests had been decimated by past environmental disasters and the invasion of nipa palms introduced by the British. She organized a launch event in late 2019, bringing in over 100 female mangrove planters to celebrate the project. However, during the event, she encountered young men who unexpectedly arrived and demanded money and snacks meant for the women. When she tried to reason with them, highlighting that the women had come to assist in reviving the land for their mothers and sisters to harvest periwinkles again, they assaulted her. "They were pulling me from the back," she recounted. "The situation turned ugly." Disturbed by the incident, Agbani and her team departed from Yaataah and did not come back for several months. She opted to establish the nursery in a different location, with the support of a local leader who offered her land near the contaminated areas in Bodo. However, she still had a strong attachment to Yaataah. It had a good creek where they could practice planting mangroves directly from seeds in the wild, rather than starting them in nursery plastic grow bags in Bodo. In May 2021, the women returned to plant, carrying sacks on their heads and wading barefoot into the creek with their skirts pulled up. The water quickly became murky as they stirred up the sediment with their feet. Agbani, 45, laughed as she felt something tickling her legs and struggled to keep her balance in the muddy creek. "Oh, dear, Martha is an elderly lady." The location was ideal, with minimal oil pollution and a variety of wildlife still present. Despite being overrun by nipa palms like many creeks in the Niger Delta, Agbani had organized for villagers to clear a significant portion of the palms. The women moved swiftly through the mud to the patch where they worked under Agbani's direction, passing podlike "propagules" from hand to hand and planting them in the mud at regular intervals. Jessy Nubani sang a popular call-and-response song as she worked, with the other women joining in harmony. The young men returned with their friends on motorcycles, but stayed on shore after receiving a scolding from Agbani. Agbani's activism was influenced by her mother, who was involved in the Ogoni people's struggle against the Nigerian government and Shell in the 1990s. Like her mother, Agbani dedicated years to working for the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, which was established in 1990 to address the environmental damage caused by multinational oil companies in the region. She drew inspiration from activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, Ogoniland's esteemed hero, who was executed by the Nigerian government in 1995. Agbani vividly recalls the day Saro-Wiwa was arrested while she was a student in Bori, his hometown, and witnessed the chaos that ensued. She mentioned that there was chaos as people ran in all directions, with soldiers entering communities like Bori and firing shots. This traumatic event, along with Saro-Wiwa's advocacy for the oppressed, inspired her to advocate for her community. She noted that while there were organizations addressing environmental issues caused by oil pollution, few were focusing on the rights of women, who were disproportionately affected by these issues. She expressed that women were constantly in a state of distress and suffering from various hardships. She felt a strong need to empower women in her community. In Ogoniland, men typically engage in deep-sea fishing while women traditionally gather crustaceans near the shore for soups or to sell. Without access to shellfish, women become reliant on men, leading to increased vulnerability and violence. Agbani believed that the Ogoni people were responsible for preserving the environment for future generations. She was bothered by the fact that local young men were hindering and attempting to benefit from the women's work to restore the environment. The young men did not seem to grasp the significance of the restoration efforts, which was disappointing to her. The ringleader jokingly threatened to take her to court, but she found it amusing and ironic, suggesting that she would welcome the opportunity if he actually followed through with a lawsuit. "That will be an excellent choice," she remarked as she left Yaataah on a rough road, bound for the nursery in Bodo. The driver quickly moved aside to make way for a group of motorcycles heading toward the village. These were more young men who had heard about the opportunity for money, but they had arrived too late as Agbani was already on her way out. | 2 |
Bangladesh is the second largest producer of jute in the world, following India. Despite the decline in demand, a Bangladeshi scientist has discovered a way to transform jute fibers into affordable, biodegradable cellulose sheets that can be used to create eco-friendly disposable bags resembling plastic. Mubarak Ahmad Khan, a scientific consultant for the state-run Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation (BJMC), led the team that developed these new 'sonali' bags, named after the Bengali word for golden. These bags have similar physical properties to plastic bags and are biodegradable after three months in soil, as well as recyclable. Bangladesh is currently producing 2,000 of these bags per day on a trial basis, but plans to increase commercial production following an agreement signed last October with a British subsidiary of a Japanese green packaging company. In March, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina encouraged those involved in the project to help increase the widespread use of the golden bags for economic and environmental benefits. In April, the government allocated approximately $900,000 from Bangladesh's climate change trust fund to support the large-scale production of the bags. Mamnur Rashid, the general manager of the BJMC, stated that they aim to start commercial production of the sonali bag within six months once the project is fully operational. Bangladesh was among the first countries to prohibit the use of plastic and polythene bags in 2002 to prevent them from accumulating in water bodies and on land, but the ban has not been very effective. Currently, more than 60 countries, including China and France, have implemented bans on these bags in certain regions or cities, according to Khan. Khan stated that with the expansion of bans, over 100 Bangladeshi and international companies are interested in utilizing the new jute-based shopping bags. He mentioned that he receives daily inquiries from buyers in various countries such as Britain, Australia, the United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and France. Sabuj Hossain, director of Eco Bangla Jute Limited, expressed that there will likely be a high demand for the bags globally and his company aims to export 10 million bags per month in the future. Rashid of the BJMC stated that commercial production is set to begin towards the end of the year. Khan stated that even if all the jute produced in Bangladesh was used to make sacks, the country would only be able to meet a third of the expected demand. Despite Bangladesh's ban on plastic bags being almost twenty years old, millions of bags are still used each year due to a lack of alternatives and weak enforcement. The government estimates that about 410 million polythene bags are used in Dhaka each month, leading to environmental issues such as a build-up of discarded bags in waterways like the Buriganga River. Former deputy director general of the Department of Environment, Quazi Sarwar Imtiaz Hashmi, believes that the use of jute polymer bags will help alleviate pollution as they are biodegradable and decomposable. | 2 |
Audrey Withers, the editor who commissioned it, made an appearance herself in the magazine’s November 1941 issue. She was seen in a plaid over-shirt and pillbox hat, working with her staff in the basement of the magazine’s headquarters on New Bond Street, putting the final touches on the issue despite the dilapidated surroundings. In the accompanying text, she declares, "Here is Vogue, in spite of it all," which served as a rallying cry from a woman who, since taking over as editor in 1940 at 35 years old, was determined to provide readers with a mix of lifestyle content and real-world struggles during wartime. With a humble background as a copy writer and administrator, Withers was an unexpected choice for the job. In her 1994 autobiography "Lifespan," Audrey Withers acknowledged that she would not have been the right fit to edit Vogue at any other time in its history. However, her words are now being rediscovered and shared on social media, as they resonate in today's world of pandemic, unemployment, and unrest. Withers, known for her left-of-center politics and outspokenness, criticized the right-wing tactic of remaining silent to maintain the status quo. Her biography, "Dressed for War" by Julie Summers, explores her ability to navigate challenges during a tumultuous era. Withers, once considered the most powerful woman in London, is now seen as a role model for the current generation in the midst of a difficult political and publishing climate. Audrey Withers, who was photographed by Lord Snowdon in January 1960 and was once known as ‘the most powerful woman in London’, passed away at the age of 96 in 2001. The current editor of British Vogue, Edward Enninful, has been compared to Withers for his dedication to inclusivity and social progress. In the July issue of the magazine, Enninful features three essential workers on the cover - a train conductor, a midwife, and a supermarket clerk - along with a variety of others inside. This echoes a series by Irving Penn, which Withers had commissioned, depicting men and women in traditional blue-collar roles. Enninful acknowledges the departure from Vogue's usual content in his editor's letter, recognizing the importance of honoring those who worked tirelessly during the pandemic. This tribute comes at a time of change for fashion magazines. Harper's Bazaar has announced that Samira Nasr, formerly the executive fashion director of Vanity Fair, will be taking over as editor following Glenda Bailey's departure in January. Nasr will be the first black editor of the magazine and has expressed her commitment to providing a platform for all voices. Meanwhile, at American Vogue, Anna Wintour is under scrutiny for issues of race and class, particularly in light of recent changes at Bon Appétit. In his new memoir, "The Chiffon Trenches," André Leon Talley describes Anna Wintour as unfeeling and determined solely by her own ambition to succeed as a powerful figure. Wintour, who has been rumored to be nearing retirement, has recently been presenting herself as progressive, endorsing Joe Biden and launching a fundraising initiative to support designers. Some believe it is time for a change in leadership in the fashion industry, with former editor Phillip Picardi suggesting a new mindset is needed. Picardi proposed that the concept of leadership in society needs to be reimagined. He believes that society is moving away from the idea of one person being above all others. On the other hand, Ariel Foxman argues that expecting editors to lead discussions or provide innovative content is unrealistic in today's media landscape. Samir Husni also believes that the traditional celebrity editor is becoming obsolete as media becomes more democratized. During times of turmoil, readers are more likely to trust a brand rather than an individual editor. Michael Wolf, a media consultant, believes that editors do not need to be seen as glamorous figures, and readers may prefer someone like Withers, who is driven by a sense of purpose rather than self-promotion. Withers argued that in times of crisis, fashion magazines should not ignore political issues. In a letter to Woolman Chase, she expressed the idea that by giving silent approval to the current state of things, one is just as politically engaged as actively advocating for change. She further supported this belief by sending journalists like Beaton and Lee Miller to the front lines. Withers, born in 1905 into a family of free-thinkers, was educated at Oxford and worked in a bookshop and briefly at a publishing house before joining Vogue. Known affectionately as "Austerity," she encouraged readers to be resourceful during times of scarcity by growing their own food, preserving, and repairing and reusing items in their wardrobes. She set an example of minimalism in her own wardrobe, with only a few suits and blouses for work, a wool dress for evenings, and casual attire for off-duty days. When restrictions were placed on the amount of labor and material used in civilian clothing, she sought advice from the British Board of Trade on creating affordable utility fashions for her readers and emphasized the importance of simplifying. She humorously responded to London's nightly blackouts by featuring glowing hatpins and brooches in her magazine, along with stylish gas mask totes. Concerned about the safety of female factory workers, she promoted short haircuts to prevent accidents. Her most groundbreaking decision was to send Miller to report on the events in Saint Malo, Paris, and Hitler's death during the war. As Vogue's war correspondent, Miller captured powerful images, including a heartbreaking scene in a bombed-out Normandy village. She recorded the events of the liberation of Buchenwald, including the sight of emaciated bodies stacked up, although she only published a small photograph. Withers asked journalist Jane Stockwood to write about the hardships faced during Nazi occupation in France, such as the lack of food, electricity, and water, as well as the tragic massacre at Oradour-sur-Glane, where SS officers killed 190 men and burned 452 women and children alive in a church. Summers notes that this may not have been what Vogue readers wanted to read, but it was important for Audrey to make them understand, and she continued to push for this. This kind of dedication could help revive fashion magazines. Picardi mentioned that when we separate political and social justice coverage from fashion magazines, we are essentially saying that they are not related. "What I have discovered is that they are not." - c.2020 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Lights were turned off at popular tourist sites and homes around the world on Saturday for Earth Hour 2009, a worldwide event aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of climate change. Landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Eiffel Tower, and London's Houses of Parliament dimmed their lights as part of a campaign to promote energy conservation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The event demonstrated the support of millions of people for governments to reach a new U.N. agreement to combat global warming by the end of 2009, despite concerns about the economic impact. Kim Carstensen, head of a global climate initiative at WWF, expressed optimism about achieving a new climate deal during U.N. climate talks in Bonn, Germany. He mentioned that they were sharing the information with everyone who was turning off their lights, while delegates and activists enjoyed blue cocktails. The U.N. Climate Panel warns that greenhouse gas emissions are causing global warming and will result in increased floods, droughts, heatwaves, rising sea levels, and extinction of animals and plants. Global emissions have increased by 70% since the 1970s, with China now surpassing the United States as the top emitter, followed by the European Union, Russia, and India. One billion people from nearly 90 countries are expected to participate in Earth Hour, which was first held in Australia in 2007 and went global in 2008. The U.N. Climate Panel states that rich nations must reduce their emissions to 25-40% below 1990 levels by 2020 to prevent the worst effects of global warming, while developing nations must also slow the rise of their emissions by the same year. Andy Ridley, the executive director of Earth Hour, explained that the main purpose of the event is to encourage people to consider ways to reduce their carbon footprint, even if only for an hour, and hopefully continue to do so beyond that time. In Asia, landmarks in countries like China, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines turned off their lights as people enjoyed candle-lit picnics and concerts. In Singapore, buildings in the business district and major landmarks like the Singapore Flyer went dark. Other iconic global landmarks such as the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, the Reserve Bank in Mumbai, the dome of St Peter's Basilica in Rome, the Great Pyramids in Egypt, and the Acropolis in Athens also participated by turning off their lights. | 2 |
The conservative state is currently one of the few EU members that does not allow marriage or civil partnerships for same-sex couples. However, supporters of a proposed change, including the Orthodox Church and almost all parliamentary parties, want to amend the constitution to define marriage as exclusively between a man and a woman in order to prevent gay couples from marrying in the future. Many human rights groups are urging a boycott of the ballot, warning that approving the change could lead to further erosion of minority rights and move Romania towards a populist, authoritarian direction. A recent poll predicted a turnout of 34 percent, with 90 percent in favor of the change, surpassing the required 30 percent threshold. The Coalition for the Family collected 3 million signatures in support of the change. The lower house of parliament approved the referendum last year, followed by the senate in September, making it the final necessary step. Some Coalition campaign posters encouraged people to vote "Yes" to protect family values, warning that gay couples could potentially adopt their children if they did not. Another advertisement claimed that a "No" vote would allow a man to marry a tree. The leader of the ruling Social Democrat Party (PSD), Liviu Dragnea, expressed concerns about legalizing marriage between a man and an animal, citing examples from other countries. In the days leading up to the vote, the government loosened anti-fraud measures, restricted challenges to the result, and the broadcasting regulator removed the campaign cut-off date. According to the independent think tank Expert Forum (EFOR), there are currently no effective methods to verify fraud in the referendum, creating a sense of distrust in the fairness of the process. Some opposition politicians and activists believe the ruling party PSD is using the vote to distract from its leader's legal issues and conflicts with the European Commission. Former Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos accuses the government of trying to create an anti-European sentiment to justify their actions against the judicial system and anti-corruption efforts. The government denies these allegations, while the Orthodox Church believes a "Yes" vote is in line with Christian, democratic, and patriotic values. Romania legalized homosexuality in 2001, long after neighboring countries, and discrimination against the LGBT community is common. The photo is titled "Romania 1+2" and shows Romanian clergymen participating in a rally to support a "Yes" vote for an upcoming referendum. The referendum aims to make changes to the constitution to prohibit the recognition of same-sex marriages in the future. This event took place in Draganesti, Romania on October 4, 2018. The information was provided by REUTERS. | 2 |
He addressed a prominent CSR conference in Germany, emphasizing the responsibilities of politicians, buyers, factory owners, and customers in promoting ethical practices. The Bangladesh German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BGCCI) is the largest bilateral chamber in Bangladesh. The 11th German CSR Forum took place in Stuttgart on April 20 and 21, and is considered a leading event on Corporate Social Responsibility in Germany. The BGCCI stated that the forum focused on the importance of CSR for business success. Over 800 participants from various sectors attended the conference and prizes were given in six categories for outstanding practices, such as CO2 reduction, gender diversity, collaboration with NGOs, CSR in the supply chain, sustainable urban development, and the best video showcasing a company's CSR efforts. Germany is a key market for Bangladeshi garments, which receive duty-free access. The conference also addressed the supply chain of ready-made garments in Bangladesh. BGCCI stated that in addition to following policy guidelines, it is important for the standards in the supply chain to be enhanced. Jan Eggert, a sustainability consultant and former CEO of BSCI, mentioned that companies often have their products manufactured by independent firms overseas, which makes it difficult to ensure that standards are being met. The Executive Director of BGCCI emphasized the need for a shift from prioritizing price to focusing on sustainable business models. | 2 |
The topic of immigration is a major focus of political discussion in the country leading up to the presidential elections, with candidates from both the right and left taking strong stances. The recent tragedy of 27 migrants drowning off France's coast has fueled the debate on the need for immigration control. Despite heated rhetoric during the campaign, the reality is that France actually has a lower percentage of immigrants in its population compared to its neighboring countries. Over the past ten years, immigration rates in France have increased at a slower pace than in other European countries and wealthy nations globally. According to migration expert François Héran, the immigration situation in France is considered to be average and moderate. "We are not a country overwhelmed by immigration, but politicians have still made promises to pause immigration, hold a referendum, or close borders. Unlike other wealthy nations like Germany and Australia, who are attracting migrant workers to address labor shortages due to the pandemic, France is considering raising wages instead of allowing more immigrants into the country. Economic discussions are rarely connected to immigration in France; instead, the focus is on national identity. There are concerns that traditional French identity is at risk from Muslim immigrants from Africa, which has dominated immigration debates for years. Recent terrorist attacks, some carried out by children of immigrants raised in France, have only intensified these fears." In France, concerns about immigration have had a significant impact, leading to political consequences, hindering necessary reforms to attract skilled workers from other countries, and causing the country, once a global crossroads, to turn inward. According to Philippe Corcuff, an expert on the far right, France is experiencing a new phase, with the collapse of the left and the rise of the extreme right shaping the political debate. Candidates from the centre-right Republican party are calling for stricter border control and limiting immigrants' access to social benefits. Some, like Michel Barnier, have even proposed a temporary halt on immigration by changing the constitution. On the left, most candidates have remained silent, but one former economy minister has suggested blocking remittances sent by migrants to countries that do not cooperate in repatriating their citizens living illegally in France. The proposal came after President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to reduce the number of visas granted to citizens of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Éric Zemmour, a writer and TV personality who recently declared his candidacy for the presidency, has expressed concerns about France's Christian heritage being threatened by immigration from Muslim countries. Zemmour stated that France must not allow itself to be taken over or replaced. His candidacy has brought the once taboo topic of the "great replacement" conspiracy theory into the election discussion, with Zemmour accusing Macron of wanting to dissolve France in Europe and Africa. Other candidates, while hesitant to fully embrace the concept, acknowledged the issue of replacement as a real problem facing the country. A recent survey found that 61% of French people believe that Muslim immigrants will replace Europe's white and Christian population. This contrasts with Germany's recent election, where immigration was not a major issue despite their history of accepting refugees. According to Jean-Christophe Dumont from the OECD, immigration is a significant concern in France, despite the country having a lower percentage of immigrants in its population compared to other OECD nations. Between 2010 and 2020, the proportion of immigrants in Germany's population increased by 16%, while in France, the number of immigrants from northern Africa declined after a period of economic growth ended in the mid-1970s. This decline coincided with the rise of the far-right National Front, now known as the National Rally, which made immigration a contentious topic in French politics. Since then, new immigration to France has been mostly comprised of foreign students and family members of existing residents, rather than migrant workers. An economist named Auriol noted that immigrants are now primarily brought to France to join their spouses, rather than for employment purposes. The consequence is that France has a less diverse immigration population compared to other wealthy countries. Government data from 2019 shows that over 40% of new arrivals were from Africa, particularly Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. The lack of diversity, along with the clustering of immigrants in urban areas like Paris, contributes to concerns about immigration, according to historian Patrick Weil. While anti-immigrant sentiments were a factor in Donald Trump's 2016 campaign, immigration in France, tied to its colonial past in countries like Algeria, is an even more contentious issue, Weil explained. He noted that in France, immigration is closely associated with religion, a distinction from the United States where the two are separate. Auriol, the economist, stated that fears of immigration and threats to France's Christian heritage from the right make it challenging to discuss reforming immigration policies to attract qualified foreign immigrants. She believes that current policies hinder economic growth and recovery from the pandemic. While some minor changes have been made recently, they are not sufficient to attract the motivated, skilled immigrants that France needs for innovation. Auriol also pointed out that France struggles to attract European Union citizens due to anti-immigrant sentiment and has low retention of foreign students post-graduation. "In the 20th century, Paris attracted talented individuals from around the world," she remarked. "These immigrants made significant contributions to France's economic, scientific, and cultural achievements. We used to be a welcoming country. How did we change so much?" © 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Myanmar's government and ethnic Karen rebels signed a cease-fire on Thursday to end one of the longest-running insurgencies in the world. This is part of the government's efforts to resolve conflicts with separatist groups. The government and the 19-member Karen National Union (KNU) delegation agreed on 11 points and signed two agreements to end hostilities between the military and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA). This is a step towards a political settlement to a 62-year conflict. The cease-fire could lead to the lifting of sanctions imposed on Myanmar by the European Union and the United States. Peace talks have been held six times since 1949, but no lasting agreement has been reached. Saw David Htaw, the deputy leader of the KNU delegation, mentioned that the changing climate in Myanmar under its new government made dialogue inevitable. He expressed a high level of confidence in the ongoing discussions, stating that peace talks are now a necessity due to the evolving circumstances. He emphasized the importance of moving forward with these talks, as people have suffered from the terrors of war for a significant period. He believes that the news of the peace talks will bring joy to the people and hopes that they will be able to savor the feeling of peace fully this time. Since 1949, the KNU has been fighting various governments for more autonomy through its military wing, the KNLA, just a year after Myanmar gained independence from Britain. Saw David Htaw commended the government's peace negotiators for their honesty and sincerity. In addition to the issue of sanctions, achieving peace with the KNU is crucial for Myanmar's economic interests. The resurgence of conflict poses a security threat that could disrupt the construction of the $50 billion Dawei Special Industrial Zone, which will be the largest industrial estate in Southeast Asia once completed and a significant source of income for the impoverished country. Previous offensives by government forces have forced hundreds of thousands of Karens to flee their villages, with many seeking refuge in camps in neighboring Thailand, which has struggled to accommodate the influx of refugees. Myanmar's military has been accused of committing human rights abuses against the Karens and other ethnic minorities, including rape, forced labor, torture, and murder. In response, the West has imposed strict sanctions. Agreements made in Pa-an in eastern Kayin State aim to resettle and rehabilitate displaced individuals, allow arms in specific areas, clear landmines, and establish liaison offices to facilitate communication. These discussions are part of a series of dialogues between the government and rebel groups along Myanmar's borders with Thailand and China. An agreement has been made with the Shan State Army (South), but initial discussions with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) have been disrupted due to ongoing fighting, despite a recent directive from President Thein Sein to halt military operations. U.S. officials have noted that the peace process could be the biggest challenge for civilian leaders looking to improve relations after decades of military rule. The rebels have a strong distrust of Thein Sein's government, which includes individuals from the previous military regime, but they are generally supportive of Aung San Suu Kyi's vision of federalism in Myanmar, a concept advocated by her father, Aung San. | 2 |
Although vaccines are highly effective in preventing COVID-19, reports of breakthrough infections and new guidelines on mask wearing for vaccinated individuals have caused confusion and concern. Recent studies have shown that vaccinated individuals can still get infected and carry high levels of the virus, but these cases are rare compared to the unvaccinated population. It is important to remember that being vaccinated is crucial in protecting yourself and others. While there is more freedom for vaccinated individuals, it is not the same as before the pandemic. It is also important to note that no vaccine provides 100 percent protection, so it is still necessary to be cautious, especially with the Delta variant. Erin Bromage, a biology professor at the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, compares vaccine antibodies to a sea wall that protects a town from a storm surge. While most of the time the wall holds up against waves, a strong hurricane like Delta can allow some water to seep through. Delta is more infectious than earlier forms of the virus, posing a bigger challenge even to vaccinated people. Vaccinations provide extra protection, but may not always hold up against significant challenges, such as being near an unvaccinated person with a high viral load. Despite this, current vaccines in the US are effectively preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death. Over 97 percent of COVID-19 hospitalizations are among unvaccinated individuals. Recent data from Singapore indicates that vaccinated patients hospitalized with delta breakthrough infections are less likely to require supplemental oxygen and clear the virus faster than unvaccinated patients. While breakthrough infections receive media attention, they are still rare. Although the CDC no longer tracks all breakthrough cases, about half of states provide some data on such occurrences. The Kaiser Family Foundation has recently examined state-reported data and discovered that breakthrough cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are uncommon occurrences among individuals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The rate of breakthrough cases among fully vaccinated individuals is less than 1% in all states, with percentages ranging from 0.01% in Connecticut to 0.29% in Alaska. However, many cases of breakthrough infections may go unreported because infected individuals may not exhibit symptoms or may experience mild symptoms that resolve before they seek testing. Dr. Asaf Bitton, executive director of Ariadne Labs at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, noted that while breakthrough infections are rare, the true level of rarity is unknown without a population-based sample. It is uncertain if many individuals with a mild sore throat for a few days actually had breakthrough cases of COVID-19. The occurrence of breakthrough cases is not a result of the vaccine's failure. It has been estimated that the vaccine campaign has prevented 100,000 to 200,000 deaths. The risk of a breakthrough infection increases when individuals are exposed to the delta variant multiple times, weakening the protection provided by the vaccine. Large events, such as the July 4 celebration in Provincetown, Massachusetts, or the Lollapalooza concert in Chicago, pose a higher risk of vaccinated individuals coming into contact with someone carrying a high viral load. The more people you interact with, the higher the risk, depending on the local risk level. In the near future, there may be a surge in COVID-19 cases at events like Lollapalooza, where large crowds are at high risk for spreading the delta variant. The CDC recommends wearing masks in areas designated as orange or red on their color-coded map, which includes roughly 80 percent of counties in the United States with high infection rates. The Northeast and Upper Midwest have low infection numbers, while states like Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Florida are experiencing spikes in cases due to the delta variant. It is important to note that case counts are changing quickly, so your local community may see a surge in cases before the map is updated. Even if you live in a highly vaccinated area with low case counts, it is wise to consider the situation in nearby communities as well since people and viruses can easily cross boundaries. Experts generally agree that wearing a mask outdoors is not necessary if you are not in a crowded area and can maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others whose vaccination status is unknown. However, attending a packed outdoor event is still considered risky, and if you choose to do so, wearing a mask is recommended. "I would recommend continuing to wear a mask indoors around people whose vaccination status is unknown, especially if you will be close to them for an extended period of time," advised J Alex Huffman, an aerosol scientist and associate professor at the University of Denver. "Although I am fully vaccinated and do not always wear a mask indoors, I do wear my N95 mask in indoor public spaces. If you are considering upgrading your mask, high-quality medical masks such as N95 or KN95 offer the best protection, ensuring they are authentic. Another option is a KF94 mask from Korea, known for its quality and lower risk of counterfeits. If you do not have a medical mask, double masking with a surgical mask underneath a cloth mask can provide strong protection." Wearing a mask with an exhale valve is not recommended as it can allow viral particles to escape, and counterfeit masks may have faulty valves that let germs in. It is important to choose the appropriate mask based on the situation. A cloth mask may suffice for a brief visit to a sparsely populated convenience store in a highly vaccinated area, but a higher-quality mask is advisable for air travel or crowded grocery stores, especially in areas with low vaccination rates and high case counts. Masks with straps or ties around the back of the head provide a tighter seal than masks with ear loops. Huffman emphasized the need for enhanced mitigation efforts, particularly when it comes to dealing with the delta variant, including the use of high-quality masks that fit tightly to the face. He advised ensuring that the mask is sealed well all around the edges, over the nose bridge, by the cheeks, and under the chin. According to him, a tightly fitting mask is more effective than a loose-fitting one. Vaccinated individuals have very low risk of contracting the virus when they are with other vaccinated friends and family members without wearing masks, according to Huffman. While wearing masks is not considered critical in indoor gatherings with a small group of vaccinated individuals, extra precautions may be necessary in certain situations. Although it is rare for a vaccinated person to transmit the virus to another vaccinated person, it is still theoretically possible. Those who engage in high-risk activities such as going to crowded events or traveling to COVID hotspots pose a greater risk compared to those who avoid large crowds and primarily spend time with other vaccinated individuals. With the delta variant on the rise, Bitton recommends prioritizing outdoor gatherings, especially for families with unvaccinated members or those at high risk. Moving your event to a backyard or patio and minimizing indoor time can reduce the risk of exposure. Spending time with small groups of vaccinated friends is safer than attending large parties, even if everyone is vaccinated. When indoors, opening windows for better ventilation is advised. For individuals at very high risk, such as the elderly or immunocompromised, it is reasonable to request that even vaccinated individuals get tested before visiting. It is possible to provide guests with a quick home test to ensure they are not infected with COVID-19. Whether or not it is safe to dine at restaurants depends on factors such as local vaccination rates, case counts, personal health, and individual risk tolerance. Dining in a restaurant in Vermont, where two-thirds of the population is vaccinated, is less risky than dining indoors in Alabama or Mississippi, where only one-third of residents are vaccinated. Parents of unvaccinated children and individuals with compromised immune systems, who may not receive as much protection from vaccines according to studies, may choose to order takeout or eat outside as an extra safety measure. Is it advisable to travel? Should I avoid peanuts and water and continue wearing my mask? While airplanes are usually well ventilated and not a significant source of outbreaks, taking precautions is still recommended. The risk of coming into contact with an infected individual may be higher in the airport terminal, while dining at airport restaurants and bars, or going through security. Air on airplanes is replaced every two to three minutes, a faster rate than in grocery stores and other indoor areas. Passengers are allowed to take off their masks to eat or drink, but ventilation systems keep airflow limited to a few rows to prevent it from circulating throughout the entire cabin. Infected passengers pose the greatest risk to those nearby, so experts recommend using high-quality medical masks like N95 or KF94 when flying. If you do not have a mask, it is recommended to wear two masks. For those who are vaccinated, the risk of briefly removing a mask to eat or drink during a flight is low, but it is best to keep it on as much as possible. The CDC advises unvaccinated individuals, including children, to avoid flying. Bromage shared that he recently flew and took his mask off briefly to drink, but kept it on for most of the flight. He mentioned that he would feel more at ease removing his mask to eat if he knew his seatmates were vaccinated. He mentioned that he would be worried if the person next to him was not following COVID precautions or wearing their mask incorrectly. He emphasized the importance of keeping the mask on, especially when around strangers or talkative individuals. Despite being vaccinated, there is still a risk of viral exposure on buses, subways, and trains, as most still require masks to be worn, which helps to reduce the risk. The level of risk depends on factors such as the duration of the ride and the level of crowding on the train or bus. For a lot of individuals, using public transportation is necessary for commuting to work or school, and it is advised to wear a properly fitting medical mask or double mask. When taking public transit is not obligatory, the choice of whether to ride should take into account the vaccination rates in the area and if there is an increase in case numbers. Can I embrace and visit elderly family members? What about children who are not vaccinated? While it is typically deemed safe for vaccinated individuals to hug and socialize without masks, parents of unvaccinated children have more factors to think about, especially when visiting older relatives. In areas where there are few cases of COVID-19 and many people are vaccinated, it is generally considered safe for unvaccinated children from one household to visit vaccinated grandparents. However, with the spread of the delta variant and children returning to school, the risk of close contact increases for older or immunocompromised individuals who are more susceptible to severe illness from COVID-19. When planning a visit to a high-risk family member, it is advisable to limit exposure by avoiding activities such as dining out or going to the gym in the week leading up to the visit. Even though the chances of a vaccinated person transmitting the virus are low, vaccinated grandparents should also minimize their own exposure when spending time with unvaccinated children. Huffman, an aerosol scientist, mentioned that despite not wearing masks indoors with his elderly parents currently, he is still cautious about wearing masks in public places. “If I had more interactions that increased my overall risk of exposure, I would strongly consider wearing a mask when indoors with vulnerable individuals,” said Bromage. Rapid home tests are an additional precaution when visiting grandparents or immune-compromised family members. It is recommended to take a test a few days before the visit as well as on the day of the visit. Home tests are a good option for those who are feeling anxious about the virus. Bromage suggests that everyone take a test right before coming together to ensure that everyone is clear of the virus and can safely enjoy their time together. How can one determine if they have the delta variant? If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 in the United States, it is highly likely that you have the delta variant, according to the CDC. The delta variant is now the most common strain in the US, accounting for over 82 percent of cases. This variant has also become dominant in many other countries, with the World Health Organization reporting that it makes up 75 percent or more of cases in countries such as Australia, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Denmark, India, Indonesia, Israel, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, and the UK. Unfortunately, standard COVID tests cannot determine if your infection is specifically caused by the delta variant or another strain of the virus. Although health departments may utilize genomic sequencing to detect various variants in a population, this data is usually not disclosed to individuals. It is important to continue isolating and consulting with healthcare professionals if experiencing low blood oxygen levels, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms. © 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
During a speech in Tokyo, former US Vice President Al Gore suggested that Japan's top business lobby could have a significant impact on global warming policy by influencing their counterparts in the United States. Gore emphasized the importance of the Japanese business community's respected reputation and urged them to send a strong message to US businesses. He noted that a shift in US business opinions could lead to a change in US policy, referencing the country's withdrawal from the Kyoto protocol due to concerns about its impact on the economy. Gore's speech was part of a campaign to promote his documentary film 'An Inconvenient Truth' in Japan. As the host of the 1997 talks that created the protocol, the Japanese government has called on major polluters like the United States, China, and India to increase efforts to address climate change. Most recently, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe reiterated this message during a visit to Europe last week. Japan's own greenhouse gas emissions reached 1.36 billion tonnes in the year ending March 2006, a 0.6 percent increase from the previous year and 14.1 percent higher than its goal of reducing emissions to 6 percent below 1990 levels. Despite this, Al Gore emphasized that Japanese corporations have a significant role to play in leading the way towards combating climate change. He believes that Japan's business leadership can set an example for the global business community and be crucial in successfully addressing the crisis. Gore stated that over 330 US cities have shown their support for the Kyoto protocol, indicating strong grassroots backing for its goals. He did not respond to media inquiries on Monday and no business executives at the event inquired about speculation regarding his potential presidential candidacy following his environmental initiatives. | 2 |
This is where the melting face emoji becomes relevant. The face, with a half-smile even as it melts into a puddle, is one of 37 new emojis approved by the Unicode Consortium this year. Other new emojis include a saluting face, dotted line face, and a disco ball. These emojis will be released gradually over the next year. The melting face emoji has already gained popularity on social media, with many seeing it as a symbol of the significant psychological impact of the coronavirus pandemic. One Twitter user described the melting smiley face as a representation of the current pandemic mood, while others saw it as a symbol of climate anxiety. Another user predicted that the emoji would be used frequently in the era of climate change apocalypse. The melting face emoji was created in 2019 by Jennifer Daniel and Neil Cohn, who bonded over their love for visual language. Daniel, who goes by they/them pronouns, is a creative director at Google and a member of the emoji subcommittee for Unicode, while Cohn is an associate professor at Tilburg University in the Netherlands specializing in cognition and communication. Cohn's research on representations of emotions in Japanese Visual Language, particularly the concept of "paperification" where characters in manga turn into paper when embarrassed, caught Daniel's attention. They realized there was no existing emoji for this visual convention, so they decided to create one, eventually landing on the melting face emoji as a more visceral representation. This idea is also sometimes depicted as a solid turning into liquid. Cohn noted that many of the best face emojis draw from conventions in comics or manga, as seen in the original emoji set. In 1999, the first emojis were created by a Japanese artist named Shigetaka Kurita, who was inspired by manga. The emojis were created to make text-based communication easier, especially due to the 250-character limit on messages sent through NTT Docomo's mobile internet service. The original set of 176 emojis designed by Kurita is now housed in the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Despite no longer having character restrictions, emojis continue to be a quick and flexible way to convey emotions, with the melting face being a prime example. From a literal perspective, emojis can be used to represent physical discomfort, such as the feeling of a broken air conditioner. However, they can also be used figuratively to express emotions like embarrassment, exhaustion, and sarcasm. According to Cohn, emojis tap into a shared knowledge base of metaphors, like the concept of melting, which can be applied to a variety of emotions. Emojis are designed to be versatile and can be interpreted in multiple ways, much like words can be used flexibly. Visual language is more flexible than words and can convey ideas that reality cannot. For example, the concept of a "melting face" can evoke various emotions and interpretations. Emojis themselves may not hold deep meaning, but it is the way people use them that gives them significance. A graphic designer named Erik Carter shared his interpretation of the melting face image he created. Carter mentioned that a lot of people may be experiencing a sense of despair due to issues such as climate change or lack of action from the government. He expressed that at times it may seem like the only option is to smile as we watch things deteriorate. | 2 |
The artists Lina Lapelyte, Vaiva Grainyte, and Rugile Barzdziukaite won the Golden Lion for best national participation at the Biennale with their work "Sun & Sea (Marina)," surpassing 89 other national pavilions. This marks the second consecutive year that a performance piece has won the prize, following the German pavilion's win in 2017 for Anne Imhof's "Faust." American artist and filmmaker Arthur Jafa received the Golden Lion for best participant in the Biennale's central exhibition for his film "The White Album," which contrasts manifestations of white supremacy with portraits of white individuals he cares for. Jafa also exhibited a series of large sculptures of truck tires in chains. Catherine Wood, a senior curator specializing in performance at the Tate in London, expressed approval of the winners, stating, "If I could have picked a list, I would've picked the same list." Wood described the Lithuanian pavilion as having a clever way of showcasing people's everyday activities within the context of ecological warnings. She noted the combination of pedestrian movement and a larger story that was both joyful and melancholic. The curator of the pavilion, Lucia Pietroiusti, emphasized the need for museums to think creatively and step outside their usual specializations to explore new possibilities in exhibition formats. Then, when we come across large catastrophic events such as climate change or species extinction, we must seek out additional means of connecting with each other. | 2 |
In Yangon, Myanmar's military arrested additional individuals on Wednesday following the departure of a UN envoy who had visited the country to address the violent crackdown on protests that had caused international outrage. Witnesses reported that at least eight truckloads of prisoners were taken from downtown Yangon, where last week's protests against military rule and economic hardship had been centered. In one house near the Shwedagon Pagoda, only a 13-year-old girl remained after her parents were taken into custody. She stated that they were warned not to flee as authorities may return. Despite some optimism about UN special envoy Ibrahim Gambari's progress in persuading junta chief Than Shwe to ease his control and engage in talks with detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, the crackdown in Myanmar continued. Singapore, as chair of ASEAN, expressed satisfaction with the cooperation given to Gambari by the Myanmar government. Gambari, who met with Suu Kyi twice, was expected to return to Myanmar in early November after his visit to Singapore. However, there was uncertainty about whether his efforts and international pressure would bring about any significant changes in the junta's policies, as they typically do not respond to outside influence or welcome UN officials. David Steinberg, an expert on Myanmar from Georgetown University, believes that the top leadership is so ingrained in their beliefs that it will not be beneficial. He mentioned that they often justify their actions by claiming they are on the path to democracy, questioning what more people could want. The junta's "seven-step road to democracy" was initiated in September, completing the first step with the conclusion of a 14-year national convention. Critics argue that the resulting constitution will further solidify military control and prevent Suu Kyi from holding office. The recent protests, the most significant challenge to the junta in nearly two decades, originated from small demonstrations against sudden fuel price hikes in August and escalated after soldiers fired warning shots over the heads of monks. The military government claims that they used minimal force to disperse the monk-led protests that spanned five city blocks, and that Yangon and other cities have now returned to normal. They acknowledge 10 deaths, but dismiss reports of higher casualties and atrocities as lies. Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, however, believes the actual death toll is much higher than the official figure of 30. Despite this, the junta believes they have successfully quashed the uprising and have eased restrictions, including removing barricades and releasing some monks who were detained in monastery raids. One young monk reported that most of those taken from his monastery were allowed to return after being verbally threatened but not physically harmed during questioning. However, witnesses stated that there was still a significant armed presence in the streets of Yangon and Mandalay, the second largest city. The military regime is reportedly sending groups into homes to search for monks in hiding, actions that Western diplomats describe as creating a climate of fear. International outrage at the severe crackdown on peaceful protests continues unabated. The UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, which includes China, the junta's closest ally, denounced the regime's use of violence. They called on the military leaders to allow UN human rights envoy Paulo Sergio Pinheiro to visit Myanmar for the first time in four years. Pinheiro reported that thousands of individuals had been detained. Pinheiro emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth about the events that occurred, stating this to the council. The council passed a resolution condemning acts of violence such as beatings, killings, and detentions. Myanmar accused powerful countries of using the hearing for political gain. | 2 |
The 95-year-old queen, who has been fully vaccinated against coronavirus, joked to Palace staff just four days ago that she was immobile, and she spent a night in hospital last October for an unspecified illness. The Palace announced today that the Queen has tested positive for COVID-19 but is only experiencing mild cold-like symptoms and plans to continue with light duties at Windsor over the next week. She will receive medical care and adhere to guidelines. Charles, 73, the heir to the throne, recently canceled an event after contracting COVID-19 for the second time. According to a source from the Palace, he had a meeting with the queen just days before. Elizabeth, who is the oldest monarch in the world, quietly celebrated the 70th anniversary of her reign as the queen of Britain and other realms in early February. When her father, King George VI, passed away on Feb. 6, 1952, while she was in Kenya on a tour, Elizabeth ascended to the throne. She is the first British monarch to reign for seven decades in a dynasty that dates back nearly 1,000 years to King William I and his conquest of England in 1066. Throughout her reign, Elizabeth has successfully maintained the popularity of the British monarchy despite significant political, social, and cultural changes that could have made royalty seem outdated. When she took the throne, Josef Stalin, Mao Zedong, and Harry Truman were leading the Soviet Union, China, and the United States, while Winston Churchill was serving as the British prime minister. Throughout her reign, she has been served by 14 prime ministers, which is a quarter of the total number in Britain since Robert Walpole 300 years ago. Over the years, she has met 14 U.S. presidents, with the exception of Lyndon Johnson. Queen Elizabeth's dedication to her duties has earned her support and respect in the United Kingdom and the wider Commonwealth, in contrast to the scandals that have plagued other members of the royal family. Opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer expressed well wishes for her health and a speedy recovery. "Get well soon, Ma’am." Despite strong public support for her, with approximately four out of five Britons viewing her favorably, the monarchy has faced challenges such as a U.S. sex abuse court case involving her son Prince Andrew, leading to concerns about the future of the monarchy. Last week, Andrew settled a lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse when she was a teenager. Andrew, a former associate of Jeffrey Epstein, has denied the allegations. Additionally, British police have started investigating reports that honors were exchanged for donations to one of Prince Charles's charities from a Saudi national. | 2 |
Russian authorities conducted a raid on a property company owned by the wife of Moscow's former mayor as part of an investigation into possible embezzlement and misuse of city funds related to a $440 million land deal. The raid on Inteko, a property developer, marks a significant development in the investigation into Yelena Baturina's business empire. OMON riot police and plainclothes individuals arrived at the office and took the management for questioning, according to an anonymous Inteko employee. In addition to the property company, police also raided Bank of Moscow and the residences of its directors as part of the embezzlement probe. Investigators suspect that employees at Bank of Moscow and Premiere Estate used a 13 billion roubles loan to embezzle funds, which ultimately ended up in Baturina's personal account. The removal of Luzhkov last year and the appointment of Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, a supporter of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, led to capital outflows from Russia and a decline in the rouble. This also resulted in changes in ownership of assets controlled by the city, including Bank of Moscow, which state-owned VTB is trying to acquire. Baturina, who has a controlling stake in Inteko, was involved in a probe last December regarding a loan used to buy land from her debt-ridden company, but she and Inteko were not named as suspects and there was no suggestion of wrongdoing. Baturina criticized the recent raid, stating that it was merely an attempt to pressure her and her company. Inteko spokesman Gennady Terebkov emphasized that there are no criminal cases against Inteko or its employees, and that there is no basis for any legal action. Baturina, who is valued at $1.1 billion, and Luzhkov have faced corruption allegations, which they both deny. Businessmen claim that corruption is rampant in the construction sector, which is heavily influenced by decisions made in the mayor's office. Luzhkov denies that his wife received special treatment during his time as Moscow's mayor. The raid on Baturina's company by riot police armed with automatic weapons is seen as a sign that her business empire is being targeted by powerful groups within the elite, following Luzhkov's public challenge to Kremlin chief Dmitry Medvedev. Challenging the leadership of the Kremlin in Russia can have serious consequences for any wealthy individual, as they risk losing their assets, facing legal consequences, and ultimately fleeing the country. President Medvedev has vowed to enhance the business environment and protect property rights, but investors believe that the inconsistent rule of law is a major obstacle for doing business in Russia. | 2 |
The period of shared sadness and frustration quickly transitioned into a yearlong, countrywide discussion on the experience of being Black in the United States. Initially starting with demonstrations that increased in size daily, these protests eventually became the biggest protest movement in American history. Close to 170 Confederate symbols were either renamed or taken down from public areas. The phrase "Black Lives Matter" was embraced by a nation struggling to cope with the death of Floyd. Throughout the following 11 months, demands for racial equality would impact almost every aspect of American society on a level not seen since the civil rights movement of the 1960s, according to historians. Derek Chauvin, the white police officer who kneeled on Floyd, was found guilty of two counts of murder and manslaughter on Tuesday. The verdict brought some comfort to activists fighting for racial justice, but many Black Americans feel that real change is still out of reach, especially with the ongoing killings of Black men by the police. Recent legislation in Republican-controlled state legislatures also shows a backlash against movements for racial justice. Otis Moss III, pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, argued that calling the past year a racial reckoning was inaccurate. He stated that we are struggling to reimagine various aspects of society, such as criminal justice and health disparities, but we have not taken significant action towards this. The guilty verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin is seen as addressing a symptom, not the underlying issue. Before the verdict was announced, Derrick Johnson compared George Floyd's death to a pivotal moment in American history, similar to the events in Selma, Alabama in 1965 which led to the passing of the Voting Rights Act. He emphasized that Floyd's death should be a catalyst for significant reforms in policing. The Floyd case unfolded during the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic, which highlighted the racial inequities in the country. Many saw Floyd's death as a culmination of various racial incidents over the past decade, including the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Sandra Bland, and Breonna Taylor. Some concrete changes have taken place since Floyd's death. Numerous laws aimed at reforming policing were proposed at the state level. Companies promised significant financial support for racial equity initiatives, and the NFL expressed regret for not supporting its Black players in protesting police violence. The response to these events was unique, as numerous public officials faced consequences for making racist remarks regarding George Floyd's death, losing their jobs and being sent to anti-racism training. Initially, American attitudes towards racial inequality and policing underwent a significant shift, which is uncommon in opinion polls. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in support among Americans, especially white Americans, for the Black Lives Matter movement. Many now acknowledge racial discrimination as a major issue and believe that excessive police force disproportionately affects African Americans. Following George Floyd's death, a majority of Americans viewed it as part of a larger pattern rather than an isolated incident. A survey conducted by The New York Times in June found that over 10% of registered voters had participated in protests. Despite some Republican politicians initially backing police reform, this support was short-lived among both elected officials and voters. Some protests became destructive and Donald Trump's reelection campaign started using those scenes in political ads, which led to polls showing white Republicans changing their views on discrimination. Throughout the campaign, voters were forced to choose between supporting racial equity or law-and-order. Republican officials who were once outspoken about George Floyd's death became quiet. Patrick Murray, the director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, explained that on the Republican side, the message became one of not acknowledging the appalling nature of Floyd's death in order to maintain political ground, as their worldview shifted to an "us against them" mentality. And the individuals protesting will be included in that group." Despite this, Floyd's death did bring about some changes, at least temporarily, among non-Republican white Americans in terms of their understanding of racial inequality and their support for reforms. It also solidified the shift of college-educated suburban voters, who were already disheartened by what they perceived as Trump's use of racial division, towards the Democratic Party. "The year 2020 will be remembered as a significant and pivotal time in history," remarked David Bailey, whose nonprofit organization Arrabon, based in Richmond, Virginia, assists churches nationwide in promoting racial reconciliation. "People's perspectives have shifted to some extent. The full impact of this change is not yet fully understood." However, even prominent Democratic leaders, such as local mayors and President Joe Biden, have expressed concern over police violence while also cautioning protesters against resorting to violence. This connection between Black political outrage and violence is deeply ingrained in American society and has not been dismantled in the past year, according to Davin Phoenix, a political scientist at the University of California, Irvine. Phoenix believes that Black people are often prevented from fully processing their trauma and grief by elected officials who urge them to refrain from certain actions. He suggests that politicians should also hold law enforcement accountable by telling them what not to do. The protests that followed George Floyd's death became a contentious topic in American politics, with some instances of looting and property damage overshadowing the majority of peaceful demonstrations. Republicans pointed to the protests as evidence of the left's loss of control. Last autumn, Blue Lives Matter flags were displayed on homes. When backing for Trump turned violent at the US Capitol on January 6th, conservatives were upset at what they perceived as a disparity in how the two movements were handled. Biden assumed office in January promising to prioritize racial equality in all aspects of his agenda, including vaccine distribution, federal infrastructure projects, and climate policy development. He promptly implemented changes that any Democratic administration probably would have, such as reinstating police consent decrees and fair housing regulations. However, Biden's administration has also taken more innovative steps to address racial inequality, such as acknowledging racism as a serious public health issue and highlighting Black unemployment as a key indicator of the economy's well-being. While opinion polls have not fully captured whether white liberals will change their behaviors that perpetuate racial inequality, recent events like the protests following George Floyd's death have increased awareness of racial disparities. The pandemic has further exacerbated these inequalities, with Black families and workers being disproportionately impacted while white students have thrived in remote education and white homeowners have gained wealth in a booming housing market. A study earlier this year found that even racially sympathetic white Americans were more likely to support individual actions like educating themselves about racism rather than taking more systemic actions like living in diverse communities or advocating for racial issues with policymakers. Historians emphasize the significant impact of Floyd's death on public discourse, highlighting its influence on discussions about policing and the pervasive nature of racism within public and private institutions. Black business leaders have shared personal experiences with racism, criticizing the business world for its inaction. Many companies have pledged to diversify their workforce in response. The outcry over racism in the US sparked protests worldwide, driving interest in books on structural racism among white Americans. According to historian Robin DG Kelley, the protests against police violence in the last year were more racially diverse than previous protests following police shootings of Black individuals. The protests also led to the mainstream acceptance of the idea of defunding the police, which is a significant transformation in policing. Kelley noted that there was more organizing, more people in the streets, and more calls for systemic change rather than just reforms. This level of activism has not been seen in the United States since the 19th century. Organizers also focused on registering voters and making racial justice a campaign issue by the fall. Mostly Democratic candidates focused on addressing racial disparities in their campaigns by advocating for police reform, the dismantling of cash bail systems, and the establishment of civilian review boards. Rashad Robinson, president of Colour for Change, noted that George Floyd's death sparked a renewed energy for change in American history, although the lasting impact remains uncertain. The incident brought racial justice to the forefront and prompted a multiracial response, but the primary goal is to hold Chauvin accountable and implement systemic changes. A significant policy outcome has been the passing of new police oversight and reform laws in over 30 states since Floyd's death, granting states more authority and challenging the influence of powerful police unions. The changes involve limiting the use of force, revamping disciplinary procedures, increasing civilian supervision, and mandating transparency regarding misconduct incidents. However, law enforcement systems are intricate and deeply rooted, so it is uncertain how much impact the new laws will have in practice. Bailey, a racial reconciliation advocate in Richmond, acknowledged the ongoing racism in America while recognizing progress has been made, albeit slowly. He emphasized that addressing a 350-year-old issue will take time, with only minimal progress achieved in the past 50 years. | 2 |
Biden took the oath of office with his hand on a family Bible, swearing to protect the Constitution. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the ceremony, completing the process before the presidency officially changed hands. Kamala Harris was sworn in as vice president by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, using a Bible once owned by Thurgood Marshall. Harris made history as the highest-ranking woman in US history and the first Black American and person of South Asian descent to hold the office. In his Inaugural Address, Biden stated that democracy had prevailed despite challenges from former President Donald Trump. He urged Americans to come together to address the coronavirus pandemic, economic issues, and racism. Biden emphasized the need to end the division in the country, highlighting the conflict between red and blue, rural and urban, conservative and liberal. He urged for unity, tolerance, and humility, emphasizing the importance of understanding each other's perspectives. Biden acknowledged that achieving unity may seem like a far-fetched idea but believed that Americans have overcome similar challenges in the past and can do so again. He called for a collective effort to come together, reduce hostility, and create a more harmonious environment. Without unity, there will be no peace, but rather bitterness and fury. Progress will be hindered by exhausting outrage, and chaos will reign instead of a unified nation. This current moment in history is filled with crisis and challenge, and the only way forward is through unity. The ceremony marking the end of the tumultuous and divisive Trump presidency took place on a chilly, breezy day with a touch of snowfall. Trump, true to form, departed Washington before the inauguration of his successor, refusing to accept his election defeat, while his vice president, Mike Pence, did attend the event. President Joe Biden took his oath of office from Chief Justice John Roberts Jr., completing the process just 11 minutes before the presidency was officially handed over. Trump flew to Florida to reside at his Mar-a-Lago estate, but the Senate will soon begin his impeachment trial for inciting the Capitol attack. The inauguration of the new president and vice president at the same location where the violent mob had gathered just two weeks prior highlighted the surreal nature of the day. Contrary to typical inaugurations filled with happiness and hope for the future, the events on the nation's 59th Inauguration Day highlighted America's challenges. In the midst of concerns about potential violence, Washington has been heavily fortified with a large presence of National Guard troops and police officers, and a significant portion of downtown blocked off. Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Americans were advised to stay away, resulting in a surreal scene of a new president delivering his address to a nearly empty National Mall adorned with flags instead of people. Reuters reported that due to the pandemic, many traditional inauguration activities were canceled, such as the usual lunch with congressional leaders, the parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, and the evening balls. Instead, President Biden will review military units at the Capitol, be escorted to the White House by marching bands, and participate in a virtual "Parade Across America" with performances from all states and territories. To symbolize national unity, Biden will be joined by former presidents Obama, Bush, and Clinton at Arlington National Cemetery. In place of formal dances, the new first and second couples will participate in a televised evening program hosted by Tom Hanks. If the grandeur and formality of the occasion were limited by the current challenges, President Biden's determination to swiftly undo the policies of the previous administration remained strong. He intended to sign a total of 17 executive orders, memorandums, and proclamations later that day, aiming to reverse many significant aspects of the previous administration's agenda. This marked a bold rejection of his predecessor and was a more extensive set of actions on Inauguration Day than seen in recent history. Among these actions were plans to implement a national mask mandate for federal workers and properties, extend eviction protections and student loan relief, rejoin the Paris climate accord, halt construction of the border wall, end the travel ban on certain Muslim-majority countries, protect young immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and pause oil and gas leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. On his first day in office, President Biden made a concerted effort to undo many of the policies put in place by his predecessor, Trump, in a clear attempt to show a new direction. While some of the executive orders were more symbolic than impactful, real change will ultimately depend on passing legislation. Biden is set to introduce an immigration reform bill on Wednesday that would offer a pathway to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants, a move that will require approval from Congress and is expected to spark debate. "Democracy has prevailed." Check out President Joe Biden's Inaugural Address. "Democracy has triumphed." President Joe Biden's Inaugural Address can be viewed at https://t.co/EPzTya587f pic.twitter.com/BotK2BwfBN. Gaining attention in Congress will be difficult, as Trump's trial is expected to occupy the Senate for an extended period. Currently, it seems unlikely that any of Biden's Cabinet nominees will be confirmed on Inauguration Day, which deviates from tradition. Trump had two Cabinet secretaries approved on his first day in office, while Obama and Bush each had seven. Harris' inauguration has shifted the Senate to Democratic control, with an even split of 50 Democrats and 50 Republicans now leaning in favor of the Democrats due to her tiebreaking vote as president of the chamber. Sen. Chuck Schumer is now the Democratic majority leader and aims to have two separate tracks for considering nominations, legislation, and the Trump trial simultaneously. Biden worked on his Inaugural Address with the help of his adviser Mike Donilon, historian Jon Meacham, speechwriter Vinay Reddy, and sister Valerie Biden Owens, in an effort to set a different tone from his predecessor focused on unity rather than provocation. Biden began this process before Thanksgiving. Flags were displayed at the National Mall in Washington to represent those who could not attend Joe Biden's presidential inauguration on January 20, 2021. In his speech, Biden addressed the importance of unity, condemned racism following the George Floyd killing and Capitol siege, and emphasized the need for truth after years of false statements from the previous president. Biden's inauguration highlighted a stark contrast between himself and his predecessor in terms of age, gender, and race. Biden, a seasoned senator and former vice president who is well-connected in Washington, values his ability to work with politicians from both parties and is looking to collaborate with Sen. Mitch McConnell and other Republicans. Known for his talkative nature, warm smile, occasional overly familiar gestures, and tendency to make mistakes, Biden employs a politics of empathy similar to Clinton and a relationship-based approach like the first President George Bush. Despite being the oldest president in American history at 78, Biden's allies recognize that he may not be at his peak, prompting close scrutiny from both supporters and critics for any signs of decline. Despite overcoming doubts and obstacles, Biden's core beliefs lean towards the center-left, but he is flexible and willing to adapt to the political landscape. The more liberal faction of his party is still doubtful, and he may struggle to maintain his electoral coalition, which was mainly united in their dislike of Trump. Biden comes into power with strong public support. A majority of Americans have a positive view of him, with a higher approval rating than Trump had during his time in office. However, most people feel that the country is heading in the wrong direction and a significant portion do not believe Biden won the election fairly, likely influenced by Trump's unfounded claims. Biden and Harris bring a new level of diversity to the highest levels of government. Biden is only the second Catholic president after John F. Kennedy, while Harris made history by breaking multiple gender and racial barriers in winning the vice presidency. Biden's Cabinet has a record number of women and people of colour, as well as the first gay person to lead one of the statutory Cabinet departments. A member of the National Guard used his smartphone to record the scene at the US Capitol during Biden's inauguration on Jan. 20, 2021.
On the morning of his inauguration, Biden began his day at 8:50 a.m. by attending a service at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle with his wife, Jill Biden, and Harris with her husband, Doug Emhoff. Congressional leaders, including McConnell, were also in attendance. Biden had spent the previous night at Blair House, the presidential guest quarters near the White House. A National Guard member used his smartphone to capture the scene at the US Capitol during President Joe Biden's inauguration on January 20, 2021. This deviated from tradition, as most new presidents typically attend a worship service at St. John's Church before taking the oath. However, St. Matthew's Church also has a significant presidential history, hosting Kennedy's funeral. Among those present at the swearing-in ceremony were three former presidents and their spouses, Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, and Michelle Obama, along with former Vice President Dan Quayle. In addition to Chief Justice Roberts and Justice Sotomayor, four other Supreme Court justices were in attendance: Justice Elena Kagan and Trump's three appointees, Justices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. Pence and his wife, Karen Pence, were warmly welcomed with bipartisan applause at the Capitol for their display of respect during the transition of power, despite Trump's snub. This marked Pence's first visit since being evacuated from the Senate chamber due to the pro-Trump mob's threats against him. Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, and Garth Brooks performed at the ceremony, with Kerry Washington, Bruce Springsteen, Eva Longoria, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Demi Lovato scheduled to join Tom Hanks for the "Celebrating America" evening performance at 8:30 p.m. The celebrity celebration will be interspersed with demonstrations of governmental duties. Biden is scheduled to sign his orders and memorandums in the Oval Office at 5:15 p.m., followed by a virtual swearing-in of his staff half an hour later. At 7 p.m., Jen Psaki, the new White House press secretary, will hold her first daily briefing, allowing reporters to question the White House regularly again after a lack of opportunities under Trump. The Bidens will spend their first night in the White House, marking the end of a journey that officially began in 1987 and unofficially much earlier. These were not the circumstances the new president may have expected when he started on this path, but history always holds surprises. ©2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Rio de Janeiro's successful bid to host the 2016 Olympics is seen as a symbol of Brazil's incredible transformation over the past decade from a struggling country to a powerful economic and diplomatic player. Just as the 2008 Beijing Olympics signaled China's resurgence, the upcoming Rio games are viewed as a validation of Brazil's emergence as a major player on the world stage. Despite years of underperformance, Brazil has finally capitalized on its rich natural resources, strong democracy, and large consumer base to become a prominent player in the global arena. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's leadership has been crucial in Brazil's economic success, lifting millions out of poverty and solidifying his status as a popular world leader. Even in the face of the global economic crisis, Brazil has quickly rebounded and returned to growth, further solidifying its newfound status as a global powerhouse. Lula mentioned to the International Olympic Committee in Copenhagen this week that Brazil was the last to be affected by the financial crisis, but the first to recover from it. He also stated that Brazil no longer feels inferior and has shed the image of being second-rate citizens. The country's history of unfulfilled potential, humorously referred to as "Brazil is the country of the future -- and always will be," was a common sentiment during periods of military dictatorship, inflation, and economic crises in the past. As Lula was on the brink of presidency in 2002, Brazil was still facing struggles, with concerns mounting that it would follow in the footsteps of crisis-ridden Argentina. In the years since then, Brazil has experienced strong economic growth and President Lula's charismatic personality has helped elevate the country's status on the global stage. By 2006, Brazil had successfully paid off its IMF loans ahead of schedule and even pledged to lend $10 billion to the IMF. Brazil has earned three investment-grade ratings in the past 18 months and has become a key player in international diplomacy on various issues. Companies like Petrobras and Vale have thrived, expanding Brazilian investments and influence in Latin America and beyond. Brazil has also been advocating for greater representation for developing nations in global decision-making, boosting the influence of the G20 and the BRIC group. Lula's call for South America's inaugural Olympics echoed a similar sentiment - that wealthier countries have historically dominated the Games in terms of both spectacle and prestige. Brazil's resurgence has provided a way out of poverty for approximately 20 million people, many of whom have benefited from Lula's extensive social welfare initiatives. Additionally, Brazil has been fortunate in terms of economic factors, such as the commodities boom that bolstered exports of materials like iron ore and soybeans, as well as the significant oil discovery off the coast of Rio in 2007. The government hopes that this discovery will elevate Brazil to the status of a developed nation, leading Lula and others to jokingly claim that "God is Brazilian." Despite these successes, Brazil still faces numerous obstacles on its path to achieving developed-nation status. The education system in Brazil is consistently underfunded, resulting in a lack of top-tier universities and a shortage of skilled labor, which concerns business leaders. The country's aging infrastructure is also hindering its potential for growth. Racism continues to be a significant obstacle for black and indigenous individuals in accessing education and job opportunities. Additionally, despite economic advancements, Brazil remains one of the most unequal countries in the world, with widespread poverty, crime, and illiteracy in regions such as the northeast and the Amazon rainforest. | 2 |
The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, which previously decided against reducing supply to maintain market share against higher-cost competitors, has increased its global supply projections for tight oil, including shale, in its 2015 World Oil Outlook. Despite the drop in prices, OPEC anticipates that demand for its crude oil will reach 30.70 million barrels per day in 2020, which is slightly lower than the expected 30.90 million barrels per day next year. OPEC is projected to produce about 1 million barrels per day more than the expected demand in 2020. Oil prices have significantly decreased over the past year and a half, reaching an 11-year low of $36.04 per barrel. While the drop in prices has led to increased oil consumption in the short term, OPEC believes that this demand boost will diminish over time. OPEC Secretary-General Abdullah al-Badri stated in the report's foreword that the recent oil price decline has had a significant impact on demand, especially in the short term, but this impact diminishes in the medium term. OPEC is currently divided over the effectiveness of the market-share strategy implemented in 2014 by Saudi Arabia and its Gulf allies. At a meeting on Dec 4, OPEC failed to agree on a production ceiling for the first time in decades. However, the report indicates that OPEC's medium-term outlook has improved, as they supply a third of the world's oil. The 2014 report predicted a decrease in demand for OPEC crude to 29.0 million bpd by 2020. OPEC announced that it ceased working on the report in the middle of the year and has since updated its forecast for a decline in 2016 non-OPEC supply. The report does not include Indonesia, which rejoined in December. The main figures in the report, which show OPEC's medium-term market share under pressure, remain the same as in a confidential report obtained by Reuters in November. OPEC initially underestimated the impact of shale oil, but acknowledged in its 2012 annual outlook that it could have a significant effect. Years of high prices, supported by OPEC's previous supply-cutting policy, have made non-conventional oil like shale economically viable. OPEC's latest report indicates a shift in perspective, stating that many projects are profitable at lower prices than previously thought. The report predicts that global tight oil output will increase to 5.19 million bpd by 2020, peak at 5.61 million bpd in 2030, and then decrease to 5.18 million bpd in 2040, with Argentina and Russia becoming major producers alongside North America. In a more optimistic scenario, tight oil production could expand to Mexico and China, potentially reaching almost 8 million bpd by 2040. As recently as 2013, OPEC believed that tight oil would only affect North America. The report suggests that OPEC's market share will increase in the future as rival supply growth diminishes. OPEC predicts that their crude demand will reach 40.70 million bpd by 2040, making up 37 percent of global supply, up from 33 percent in 2015. OPEC slightly raised their medium-term world oil demand forecast, anticipating oil usage to reach 97.40 million bpd by 2020, which is 500,000 bpd more than in the previous year's report. However, factors such as slower economic growth, the limited impact of crude costs on pump prices, and the weakening value of some domestic currencies against the dollar will restrict the response to lower crude prices, according to OPEC. OPEC predicts that by 2040, demand for oil will be 109.80 million barrels per day, which is 1.3 million barrels per day less than the previous year due to increased energy efficiency and efforts to mitigate climate change. The report suggests that there will only be a slight increase in oil prices, with OPEC's basket of crude oils starting at $55 in 2015 and gradually increasing by $5 each year to reach $80 by 2020. | 2 |
The Supreme Court stated that complications from metastatic pancreatic cancer were the cause of death. In December 2018, two small tumors were discovered in one of her lungs during a follow-up scan for broken ribs from a fall. Ginsburg had previously overcome colon cancer in 1999 and early-stage pancreatic cancer 10 years later. In 2014, she received a coronary stent for a blocked artery. Despite her small stature and weight, Ginsburg was known for her toughness and dedication to regular workouts with a trainer, who even wrote a book about her challenging exercise routine. As Ruth Bader Ginsburg celebrated her 80th birthday and 20th anniversary on the Supreme Court during President Barack Obama’s second term, she ignored suggestions for retirement in order to allow a Democratic president to choose her successor. She intended to remain in her position as long as she could perform her duties effectively, expressing optimism for the future. Ginsburg became the only woman on the Supreme Court after Justice Sandra Day O’Connor retired in 2006, which she found challenging and not reflective of the progress she had fought for in her career. However, she was later joined by two other female justices appointed by Obama: Sonia Sotomayor in 2009 and Elena Kagan in 2010. After Justice John Paul Stevens retired in 2010, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg became the senior member and de facto leader of a four-justice liberal bloc, which included the three female justices and Justice Stephen Breyer. Without a fifth vote, usually provided by Justice Anthony Kennedy before his retirement in 2018, the four justices were frequently in dissent on the highly polarized court. Ginsburg's strong and pointed dissenting opinions, often representing the views of all four justices, gained attention as the court shifted further to the right. A law student named Shana Knizhnik dubbed her the Notorious RBG, a nod to the rapper Notorious BIG, who was also from Brooklyn. Soon, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's name and image, with her peaceful yet stern expression, lace collar, oversized glasses, and gold crown askew on her head, became popular on the internet. Young women got tattoos of her image, daughters dressed up as her for Halloween, and her famous quote "You Can't Spell Truth Without Ruth" appeared on bumper stickers and T-shirts. Biographies about her, such as "Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg," by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik, and a children's book titled "I Dissent," were bestsellers. A documentary about her life was a surprise hit in 2018, and a Hollywood movie about her first sex discrimination case was released on Christmas Day that same year. The admiration for Ruth Bader Ginsburg increased significantly after Donald Trump's election, during which she had controversially referred to him as "a faker." Scholars tried to understand this phenomenon, with Dahlia Lithwick suggesting that women were looking up to Ginsburg as a model of female influence, authenticity, dignity, and voice in a time when they needed hope for an empowered future. Ginsburg's unexpected popularity in her later years was a stark contrast to the doubts some feminist leaders had when President Bill Clinton nominated her in 1993. Despite her reputation for collegiality and friendship with conservative colleagues, Ginsburg's Senate confirmation ended a long period without Democratic appointments to the Supreme Court. There was a certain appropriateness to that series of events, as Ruth Ginsburg was sometimes referred to as the Thurgood Marshall of the women’s rights movement due to her work as a litigator and director of the Women’s Rights Project of the American Civil Liberties Union in the 1970s. This comparison was made because of her strategic approach and careful selection of cases in order to persuade the all-male Supreme Court to recognize the constitutional prohibition against sex discrimination, much like how Thurgood Marshall built the case against racial segregation as the chief legal strategist of the civil rights movement. When Ruth Ginsburg took her seat as a junior justice on the Supreme Court in October 1993, it was a familiar setting for her, despite the change in perspective, as she had previously argued cases that became legal milestones. From 1973 to 1978, she brought six cases before the court and won five of them. Her daunting objective was to convince the Supreme Court that the 14th Amendment's guarantee of equal protection extended to both racial and gender discrimination. While the Court under Chief Justice Earl Warren had a reputation for liberal rulings, it had never addressed gender discrimination as a constitutional issue. The Court under Chief Justice Warren Burger, appointed by President Nixon, was not expected to be any more sympathetic. Ginsburg believed that it was important to educate an audience that may not have been hostile but simply did not understand certain issues. She criticized laws that aimed to protect women but were based on stereotypes about male and female abilities and needs. In a 1988 speech, she expressed that justices did not see the differential treatment of men and women in legal contexts as a burden for women, as they may have viewed their treatment of their wives and daughters as indulgent and fair. In order to change course, the court needed to recognize that laws supposedly intended to benefit or protect women could actually have the opposite effect. This was demonstrated through successful legal challenges, such as one in Idaho where a law giving men preference over women to administer estates was overturned. Another case involved a military regulation denying benefits to husbands of female soldiers, assuming they were not dependent spouses. Similarly, a Social Security provision assumed wives were secondary breadwinners, depriving widowers of survivor benefits. In many of these cases, the plaintiff was a man, like Stephen Wiesenfeld who sought benefits to care for his child after his wife's death. Following her victory in the Supreme Court case, Ginsburg maintained contact with the father and child involved. In 1998, she traveled to Florida to help officiate at the child's wedding. Years later, in 2014, Ginsburg presided over her former client's second marriage at the Supreme Court, marking 42 years since the death of Paula Wiesenfeld. One of Ginsburg's notable cases was Craig v. Boren in 1976, where she contributed but did not personally argue. This case resulted in the Supreme Court formally adopting the rule that official distinctions based on sex were subject to "heightened scrutiny" from the courts. The court struck down an Oklahoma law that allowed girls to buy beer at 18 but required boys to wait until they were 21. While the question in Craig v. Boren may not have seemed significant, the constitutional implications of the ruling were profound. Even though the court did not adopt Ginsburg's proposed "strict scrutiny" rule in her early cases, they did recognize that the 14th Amendment's guarantee of equal protection encompassed gender equality. This was a personal victory for Ginsburg when she delivered the majority opinion in a 1996 discrimination case involving the Virginia Military Institute. The court ruled 7-1 that the all-male admissions policy of the state-supported military college was unconstitutional, despite Virginia's argument that their education method was not suitable for women. Virginia had established a separate military college for women under legal pressure, which was less rigorous and lacked the advantages of VMI's alumni network. Ginsburg criticized the state of Virginia for not providing a convincing reason for treating men and women differently in the United States v. Virginia case. She argued that women deserving of a VMI-quality education should not be offered anything less than equal protection under the law. Ginsburg emphasized that while there are inherent differences between men and women, these should not be used to restrict opportunities or create inequality. She believed her decision would improve VMI and create a more equal environment for all students. On June 26, 1996, Ginsburg spoke about a moment during her opinion in the VMI case where she looked at her colleague, O'Connor, who had previously contributed to the legal foundation for the decision. O'Connor had written a majority opinion in 1982 that influenced Ginsburg's cases, and Ginsburg's opinion in the VMI case referenced O'Connor's earlier opinion. The group of justices including Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Clarence Thomas, Antonin Scalia, Sandra Day O'Connor, and John Paul Stevens gathered at the Supreme Court building to honor the late Chief Justice William Rehnquist, marking the completion of the constitutional circle. O'Connor and Ginsburg, two justices who were three years apart in age, were pioneers in breaking barriers for women in the legal profession, facing obstacles in their careers despite their impressive academic achievements. The professor, Albert Sacks, who later became dean of the law school, wrote to Frankfurter, a former Harvard law professor, expressing that “the lady possesses extraordinary self-possession” and that “her qualities of mind and person would make her highly appealing to you as a law clerk.” Despite never having hired a woman before, the justice declined to interview the star student. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her fellow justices Clarence Thomas, Antonin Scalia, Sandra Day O'Connor, and John Paul Stevens left the Supreme Court building for the casket procession of the late Chief Justice William Rehnquist in Washington on Sept 6, 2005. Despite their differing views on important court matters such as affirmative action and federalism, the two women shared a bond due to their similar life experiences, despite their different backgrounds - one being the daughter of Southwestern ranchers and the other being the Brooklyn-born daughter of Russian Jews. Ruth Bader's father, Nathan Bader, immigrated to New York with his family when he was 13, while her mother, the former Celia Amster, was born four months after her family's own arrival. Ruth, originally named Joan Ruth at birth and known as Kiki during her childhood, was born on March 15, 1933. Growing up in Brooklyn's Flatbush neighborhood, she essentially grew up as an only child, as her older sister passed away from meningitis at the age of 6 when Ruth was just 14 months old. The family owned small retail stores, such as a fur store and a hat shop, but money was always tight. Celia Bader, Ruth's mother, was a highly ambitious woman who graduated from high school at 15 but was unable to attend college. Instead, her family sent her to work in Manhattan's garment district so her brother could attend Cornell University. She had great aspirations for her daughter, but unfortunately, she did not live long enough to see them come to fruition. She was diagnosed with cervical cancer when Ruth was a freshman at James Madison High School and passed away at the age of 47 in 1950, the day before her daughter's high school graduation. Following the ceremony, where Ruth was unable to attend, her teachers brought her numerous medals and awards to the house. On June 14, 1993, when Ginsburg stood alongside Clinton in the Rose Garden for the announcement of her Supreme Court nomination, she moved the president to tears with a heartfelt tribute to her mother. "I hope to achieve all that she would have achieved had she lived in a time when women could aspire and succeed, and daughters were valued as much as sons," she expressed. Ruth Bader received a scholarship to attend Cornell University where she met Martin Ginsburg during her freshman year. Ruth was immediately attracted to Martin because he was the only boy who appreciated her intelligence. They got engaged during her junior year and got married in 1954 after her graduation. Their romantic and intellectual partnership lasted a lifetime. Despite their differences in personality - she was reserved and thoughtful in her speech, while he was outgoing and humorous - their strong bond and shared dedication to their family and careers were evident to everyone who knew them. Martin Ginsburg, a successful tax lawyer, wholeheartedly supported his wife, giving up his own thriving law practice in New York to move with her to Washington when she was appointed to the US Court of Appeals in 1980. Thirteen years later, he worked hard behind the scenes to support her nomination to the Supreme Court. Moving to Washington, Martin Ginsburg taught tax law at Georgetown University's law school. He held a chair endowed for him by Ross Perot, a longtime client, in appreciation for saving him millions in taxes. Additionally, he was a skilled cook who prepared meals for the family and baked treats for his wife to share with her colleagues at the court. (Ruth Ginsburg admitted she was a terrible cook and was banned from the kitchen by her children.) The Ginsburgs resided in a duplex apartment at the Watergate, located next to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where they regularly attended the opera and ballet. After 56 years of marriage, he passed away from cancer in 2010 at the age of 78. Before his death, he left a handwritten note on a yellow pad for his wife to discover by his bedside. The note began with "My dearest Ruth," expressing his deep love and admiration for her throughout their relationship. He praised her for reaching the pinnacle of the legal world and reflected on their time together since their first meeting at Cornell. Their two children, Jane and James, along with four grandchildren, survive. After marrying, the couple moved to Lawton, Oklahoma, where Martin Ginsburg was stationed as an Army officer at Fort Sill. Ruth Ginsburg applied for a job at the local Social Security office, but the offer was rescinded when she informed them she was pregnant with Jane. She took on a clerk-typist position at the GS-2 level, which she saw as just the way things were at the time. It wasn't until later that Ruth Ginsburg dedicated herself to challenging the societal norms that restricted women's opportunities. Early in their marriage, both Ruth and Martin Ginsburg faced a difficult situation when Martin was diagnosed with testicular cancer during his third year of law school. His prognosis was grim, and he struggled to attend classes. Other classmates helped him by taking notes, while Ruth Ginsburg, who was also attending class and looking after their young daughter, typed up the notes and assisted him with studying. Despite the challenges women faced at Harvard Law School, he managed to recover and graduate on time. The school had no female faculty members, and during Ruth Ginsburg's first year, the dean, Erwin Griswold, questioned the nine women in the class about why they believed they deserved to be there instead of a man. Ruth struggled to explain that she wanted to understand her husband's work as he pursued a career in law. When her husband got a job offer in New York, Ruth requested to finish her studies at Columbia and still obtain a Harvard degree, but her request was denied. She then transferred to Columbia, where she tied for first place in her class. In 1972, she became the first woman to receive tenure at Columbia Law School. Years later, after Harvard changed its policy to award degrees to students in similar situations, Ruth's husband jokingly suggested she trade in her Columbia degree for a Harvard one, reflecting on how the incident had affected her career. "She simply smiled." In 2011, Harvard University awarded Ruth Ginsburg an honorary degree during a ceremony where Plácido Domingo serenaded her. Ginsburg, a lover of opera, considered it one of the most significant moments in her life. Following her graduation from Columbia, Ginsburg struggled to find employment at New York law firms and instead worked as a clerk for federal district judge Edmund L Palmieri. Only after a threat from her mentor, Professor Gerald Gunther, did Palmieri agree to hire her. After her clerkship, Ginsburg returned to Columbia to work on a project related to comparative law on civil procedure. The project necessitated her to acquire knowledge of Swedish and to stay in Sweden, which turned out to be influential. Feminism was thriving in Sweden, and it was common for women to juggle both work and family responsibilities with ease. Childcare was easily accessible, and an article written by the editor of a feminist magazine caught Ruth Ginsburg's interest. "We should stop focusing on the idea of women having two roles," stated editor Eva Moberg. She believed that both men and women primarily have the role of being people. Ruth Ginsburg wrote a significant treatise on Swedish civil law between 1963 and 1970, along with numerous other articles and books. Beyond her academic achievements, her time in Sweden may have had the most impact by exposing her to a different societal structure. Despite being rejected by prestigious law schools, Ginsburg found a teaching position at Rutgers Law School, where she was only the second woman on the faculty. At that time, there were fewer than twenty-four women teaching at all American law schools combined. During this time, she gave birth to her second child, James, who was nine years younger than his sister. Alongside her teaching job, she started volunteering to handle discrimination cases for the New Jersey chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union. These cases included complaints from pregnant public-school teachers who had lost their jobs. A childhood friend, Melvin Wulf, who was the national legal director for the ACLU, learned about her work and started sending more cases her way. One of these cases, the Idaho estate administrators case which she won in the Supreme Court as Reed v. Reed, became her first major victory. Her 88-page brief in this case, highlighting how the law reinforced the oppression of women in society, became known as the "grandmother brief" in legal history and served as a reference for feminist lawyers for many years. In 1972, the ACLU established the Women's Rights Project and appointed Ruth Ginsburg as its inaugural director. She also began teaching at Columbia University after leaving Rutgers. Through the ACLU project, she developed a legal strategy to challenge official discrimination based on sex in front of the Supreme Court. The significance of her approach was not immediately evident, even to observers closely following her work. Ruth Ginsburg stood out by choosing cases where men were the victims of unequal treatment by the government. She was not just trying to present cases in a way that would be easy for the justices to understand and agree with, but she had a deeper goal of freeing both men and women from societal roles and using the Constitution to dismantle the structures that enforced those roles. This is why she saw a widowed father seeking welfare benefits to care for his child as the perfect plaintiff, as it could challenge the idea that childcare was solely a woman's responsibility. Wendy W Williams, a retired professor of law at Georgetown University Law Centre and Ginsburg's authorized biographer, wrote in a 2013 article that Ginsburg's legal campaign successfully targeted the intricate and widespread legal system that portrayed women as yin and men as yang, either rewarding them for conforming to gender-specific roles or punishing them for deviating from them. Williams explained that Ginsburg recognized the legal and societal perception of male and female as natural opposites interconnected by nature or divine design, and she realized that one could not separate the two. Male plaintiffs were crucial in dismantling what Ginsburg called "sex-role pigeonholing," as sex discrimination affected both men and women, and both could benefit from Ginsburg's idea of sex equality. Professor Neil S Siegel of Duke Law School described this idea as one of "equal citizenship stature." Despite Ginsburg's reputation as a liberal, she surprised many with her moderate voting record on the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, where she often appeared more at ease with conservative colleagues than with liberal ones. Her perspective as a judicial-restraint liberal stemmed from her belief that the judicial branch should collaborate with the other branches in a healthy democracy, rather than impose a final decision that allowed no room for further discussion. This viewpoint was evident in her criticism of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court's 1973 ruling on abortion rights. In a speech at New York University Law School in 1993, shortly before her nomination to the Supreme Court, she criticized the ruling for stopping a political process that was moving towards reform and causing prolonged division. She expressed her support for abortion rights but suggested that the court should have issued a more limited ruling, allowing states to regulate abortions without banning them completely. She warned against the court making drastic decisions that could lead to a strong backlash. Despite some questioning the accuracy of her narrative, she continued to criticize the decision. Her speech caused concern among some women's groups and abortion rights organizations, leading to quiet lobbying against her nomination. Clinton, in his first nomination to the court, publicly searched for potential candidates among judges and political figures, including Mario Cuomo and Bruce Babbitt. It seemed that Stephen G. Breyer was the chosen candidate, but his interview did not go smoothly due to his recent bicycle accident. Martin Ginsburg encouraged Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan to advocate for his wife, Ruth Ginsburg, with the president. Initially hesitant, Clinton ultimately decided to nominate Ruth Ginsburg after a private meeting with her on June 13th. He phoned her at 11:33 that evening to inform her that she was his selection. Clinton stated at the announcement ceremony the following day that he believed she would promote consensus-building on the Supreme Court as she had on the Court of Appeals. The public strongly supported her appointment, and she was confirmed on Aug. 3, 1993, despite dissenting votes from three conservative Republicans in the Senate. Ginsburg addressed the Senate Judiciary Committee, stating that her judicial approach was not strictly liberal or conservative. She did, however, express her unwavering support for the right to abortion, despite her criticism of Roe v. Wade. When questioned by Sen. Hank Brown, R-Colo., she emphasized the importance of this issue to a woman's life and dignity. The decision regarding abortion should be made by the woman herself, and when the government interferes with that decision, it diminishes her autonomy as a responsible adult. In a dissenting opinion during the 2006-07 Supreme Court term, Ginsburg criticized the majority's rationale in upholding a federal law criminalizing a certain abortion procedure, arguing that it was based on outdated beliefs about women and lacked reliable evidence. Another controversial decision led to another strong disagreement among the judges. In the case of Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co, the court voted 5-4 to dismiss Lilly Ledbetter's pay discrimination claim due to her failure to file within the 180-day deadline. The majority opinion, written by Alito, stated that the clock started ticking from Ledbetter's first paycheck showing the unequal pay. Ginsburg disagreed, arguing that the period should begin when the employee becomes aware of the discrimination. She urged Congress to clarify this issue, emphasizing the importance of their involvement. Notably, Ginsburg made her dissent known from the bench, which added weight to her message. The situation, which initially appeared to be a technical disagreement regarding a statute of limitations, evolved into a widely-publicized rallying cry. This approach was successful, leading Congress to reverse what Ginsburg criticized as a narrow interpretation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The outcome was the passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act on Jan. 29, 2009, which became the first bill signed into law by President Obama. According to Harvard Law School Professor Lani Guinier in a 2013 essay, Ginsburg was actively engaging with the public in her efforts. Guinier praised oral dissent as a way to make judicial speech more accessible to the public, while Ginsburg carefully crafted her opinions, both majority and dissenting, with clear language and minimal jargon. She credited her attention to writing to studying literature under Vladimir Nabokov at Cornell. Her dissenting opinions, especially those announced from the bench, garnered the most attention, and she even playfully switched her decorative collars on dissenting days. She continued to wear her "dissenting collar," described as resembling medieval armor, the day after Trump's election. One of her notable dissents occurred in 2013 in Shelby County v. Holder, where she criticized the majority for dismantling the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Ginsburg questioned the court's usual restraint and ended with a quote about the arc of the moral universe bending towards justice. Another favorite opinion of hers was in the 1996 case MLB v. SLJ, which dealt with the right of a parent to appeal a court decision even if unable to afford the cost of preparing the official court record. The Supreme Court of Mississippi determined that the state was not required to cover the cost of the necessary record for an appeal to proceed. The Constitution does not typically grant affirmative rights, except for certain exceptions such as the right to a lawyer for an indigent criminal defendant. Justice Ginsburg based her decision on cases that emphasized the importance of protecting family relationships. This decision was praised by legal experts as extraordinary. In 2017, a decision was made regarding the unequal treatment imposed by federal immigration law on unwed mothers and fathers seeking to pass on their American citizenship to children born overseas. According to the law, mothers who had lived in the United States for at least one year could pass on their American citizenship, while fathers had to have lived in the US for five years. The law assumed that it was easier to identify the mother as a parent compared to the father, who may be less likely to assume parental responsibility for their out-of-wedlock children. In the case of Sessions v. Morales-Santana, Ginsburg, writing for a 6-2 majority, declared the law unconstitutional due to its sex-based distinction, which she described as outdated and reflective of past generalizations about men and women. She emphasized the importance of avoiding such broad generalizations, which can limit people's opportunities and choices. Ginsburg often attributed the success of her 1970s legal battles to being in the right place with the right arguments at the right time. In the preface to her book "My Own Words," published in 2016, she expressed gratitude for being alive and a lawyer during a time when it was possible to advocate successfully for gender equality in the U.S. She acknowledged that she had a significant impact on the court's understanding of this issue and believed that judges were influenced by the changing societal climate. Ginsburg was known for her meticulous approach to both her work and her appearance. She wore her dark hair pulled back and preferred finely tailored suits by designer Giorgio Armani, occasionally mixing in flamboyantly patterned jackets from her travels. Despite being recognized as one of the best-dressed women, she was quiet in social settings and often let her outgoing husband speak for her. Those who didn't know her well saw her as shy and reserved, but she could become passionate when discussing her love for opera. Despite her reserved nature, it was hard to imagine she was once a high school cheerleader and twirler due to her precise and deliberate movements. There wasn't a clear distinction between the two sides of her personality, rather her shyness disappeared when she was focused on a task. She remembered feeling extremely nervous before her first Supreme Court argument, to the point where she couldn't eat lunch for fear of getting sick. However, once she began the argument, her fear vanished and she felt empowered by the attention of the powerful judges. | 2 |
The journalists from Ukraine received a special citation for their coverage of the Russian invasion, and the Pulitzer board honored the 12 journalists who lost their lives while reporting on the Ukraine war this year. The Pulitzer Prizes are highly esteemed awards in American journalism, with a focus on the public service award. The Washington Post was awarded this year for their reporting on the siege of the US Capitol by supporters of former President Trump, which led to Joe Biden becoming president. The Pulitzer Prize Administrator Marjorie Miller praised The Washington Post for their detailed and powerful account of the events on January 6, 2021. Additionally, a team of photographers from Getty Images won a Pulitzer for their breaking news photography of that day. A team of Reuters photographers, including the late Danish Siddiqui, who died in Afghanistan last July, won the Pulitzer Prize for their coverage of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic in India. Reuters was also a finalist for their photographs of climate change globally. The images of COVID's impact in India were praised for their balance of intimacy and devastation. Along with Siddiqui, the honored photographers were Adnan Abidi, Sanna Irshad Mattoo, and Amit Dave. Reuters Editor-in-Chief Alessandra Galloni stated that the world was made aware of the severity of India's outbreak through the photographers' documentation. Galloni praised Siddiqui's incredible work and recognized his legacy in the field of photojournalism. Siddiqui was part of the Reuters team that won the Pulitzer Prize in 2018 for their coverage of the Rohingya refugee crisis. The Pulitzer Prize was awarded to Reuters, a division of Thomson Reuters, for the 10th time, marking their seventh win in the past five years. The New York Times has now accumulated a total of 135 Pulitzers since the awards were established in 1917. The Times received three Pulitzers this year, including one for national reporting on police-involved fatal traffic stops, another for international reporting on the failures of the US air war in the Middle East, and a third for criticism by Salamishah Tillet for her work on race in arts and culture. The Times was also named a finalist in the international reporting category twice more, for their coverage on the fall of Afghanistan and the assassination of Haiti's president. Additionally, New York Times reporter Andrea Elliott received a Pulitzer Prize in the general nonfiction category for her book "Invisible Child: Poverty, Survival and Hope in an American City," which was based on a series published by the newspaper in 2013. The Pulitzer board recognized the difficult and risky environment for journalists globally, highlighting the deaths of 12 journalists in Ukraine, the murders of eight Mexican journalists, and instances of assault and intimidation against journalists in Afghanistan and Myanmar. The special recognition for Ukrainian journalists praised their bravery, resilience, and dedication to honest reporting during Vladimir Putin's invasion and propaganda campaign. The Pulitzer Prizes, which have been awarded since 1917, were established by Joseph Pulitzer to support journalism education and recognize excellence in various categories such as media reporting, writing, photography, books, drama, and music. A group of primarily senior editors from prominent US media outlets and academics oversees the selection process that decides the winners. | 2 |
The upcoming visit of President Joe Biden is seen as a positive development as he values Europe as an ally and NATO as essential for Western security. However, the scars left by the previous presidential administration may take time to heal, according to experts. Rosa Balfour, director of Carnegie Europe, warns against underestimating the impact of the Trump years on the European Union, which has made the EU more cautious in accepting US demands. Various important issues such as the Afghanistan pullout, military spending, relations with Russia and China, trade disputes, tariffs, climate, and vaccine diplomacy will be discussed. Despite Europeans appreciating Biden's promises of loyalty and affection, they are concerned about how quickly US foreign policy can change with a new president. There is a fear that America has shifted, and Biden may only be a temporary placeholder between more populist, nationalist leaders. They are uncertain about the costs of Biden's policies and how they differ from Trump's "America first" approach. With upcoming elections in Germany, France, and the US, there is a sense of urgency for Biden to make his mark. However, his upcoming visits to NATO and the EU are seen as more than just symbolic gestures. The meetings are coordinated so that he can arrive in Geneva on June 16 with support and consultation from allies for his first meeting as president with Russia's president, Vladimir Putin. Jana Puglierin, Berlin director of the European Council on Foreign Relations, believes that Biden is starting a new relationship with Brussels and NATO, initiating a strategic process to renovate the alliance for the next decade. However, tangible results are necessary to show benefits for the partnership, as it is not unconditional love, but rather friends with benefits. François Heisbourg, a French defense analyst, views the Biden trip positively, stating that the US is back and there is no cynicism in Biden's approach. Heisbourg is a special adviser to the Foundation for Strategic Research in Paris. "Biden is focused on implementing his strong views, with a basic stance of wanting to rebuild relationships with allies. While policy reviews need to turn into actual policies, the overall goal of his administration is to show a renewed commitment to alliances. However, Biden has not yet named ambassadors to key positions, which could become crucial in the future for immediate communication with allies." The NATO summit meeting will be brief, with a single 2 1/2-hour session following an opening ceremony. This will give each leader only five minutes to speak. The leaders will reach an agreement on a communique currently being negotiated, address the Afghanistan withdrawal, and approve a yearlong study on revamping NATO's strategic concept to address new challenges such as cyberwarfare, artificial intelligence, antimissile defense, disinformation, and other emerging technologies. The previous revision of the strategic concept in 2010 focused on Russia as a potential partner, with minimal mention of China. The new revision will be based on different assumptions. NATO officials and ambassadors anticipate discussions on topics such as countering China within a regional trans-Atlantic alliance, determining NATO's required capabilities, and deciding whether these capabilities should be funded collectively or by individual member countries. Adapting to the EU's vague desire for "strategic autonomy" while promoting European military spending and efficiency and avoiding duplication with NATO is a concern. Additionally, there is a need to make NATO more politically savvy, as requested by French President Emmanuel Macron, potentially through the establishment of new meetings including key officials from member states. Leaders will also discuss in bilateral sessions the replacement of NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, whose term was extended to maintain stability during the Trump presidency and ends in September 2022. Other issues for the NATO summit meeting include managing Afghanistan during and after withdrawal, relations with Putin's Russia, Xi Jinping's China, and Lukashenko's Belarus. The ambassador of a NATO country stated that those who are interested in trains running on time will be drawn to the NATO summit, while those interested in train collisions will be disappointed. The same can be said for Biden's upcoming meeting with the European Union on June 15, where he will meet with Charles Michel of the European Council and Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission. Biden will have already met with 21 of the 27 EU leaders the day before at NATO, as there is significant overlap between the two organizations. Turkey, a member of NATO, poses challenges in balancing its relationships with Russia and its hostility towards Greece. Cyprus, an EU member, hinders coordination with NATO due to its animosity towards Turkey. The bloc faces a variety of issues, such as trade disputes related to Airbus and Boeing, steel and aluminum tariffs, and the enforcement of a new global corporate tax rate agreed upon by G-7 finance ministers. Other topics include data transfer, military spending, carbon-neutral economy transition, regulation of technology and social media companies, reform of international institutions like the WTO and WHO, and managing relationships with China and Russia. There is also concern about the potential for another president similar to Trump in the future. German officials feel that Biden's decision to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan was made unilaterally, with allies simply following along. European leaders were upset and embarrassed by Biden's unexpected decision to support the waiver of intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines, which was made without consulting allies. Europeans have a different perspective on China and Russia compared to the United States, as they rely more on these countries for trade and energy. Some are concerned that Biden's approach of framing the world as a competition between democracy and authoritarianism is oversimplified. Nathalie Tocci, director of Italy's International Affairs Institute, emphasized the importance of consulting with allies before the Putin summit. Europeans are fooling themselves if they believe that things can return to how they were before. They should collaborate with Biden on important issues like climate, vaccines, and trade to create a Western alliance that can lead to broader global agreements. This is the most effective way to demonstrate that democracy is effective. | 2 |
It is an example of the type of compromise that has been made by certain employees of the Kremlin propaganda machine over the years - individuals who valued the stability of their job and the creative challenge it presented, even if they did not necessarily agree with the goals of their workplace. After President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, Likin, who had been the art director for Channel 1, a major player in the Russian state television network and Kremlin's propaganda machine, resigned. He stated that he was not a political person, but the invasion forced him to recognize that he was now involved in a harmful agenda. Likin observed that in Russia, television is primarily consumed by individuals who are either too lazy to seek out alternative sources of information or lack the ability to critically analyze information. The invasion of Ukraine has prompted some Russians who have long been affiliated with the government to sever ties, indicating that the Kremlin is facing challenges in maintaining unity among society in support of the war. Thousands of people have been arrested for protesting against the invasion of Ukraine, with tens of thousands fleeing the country. Anatoly Chubais, Putin's climate envoy, recently resigned, making him the first senior government official to do so since the invasion began on February 24. Several high-profile resignations have also occurred at Russia's state television channels, which are crucial for Putin's control over domestic politics. Marina Ovsyannikova, a Channel 1 staff member, made a bold statement by interrupting a live news broadcast to display an anti-war poster. Other resignations, like that of Likin, have been more subtle but still reflect the unrest within Putin's regime and the significant influence of television in shaping public perception of the war. Zhanna Agalakova, a Channel 1 correspondent who recently resigned, described her colleagues as feeling clinically depressed in the current situation. Many individuals who are thoughtful are feeling their own sense of guilt, with no clear way out. Merely seeking forgiveness is not sufficient. Despite the increasing influence of YouTube and social media, Russia's national television networks, all controlled by the Kremlin, remain the primary source of news for the public. According to surveys by the Levada Center, about two-thirds of Russians relied on state television for news last year, a decrease from 90% in 2014. State television channels have portrayed a narrative of the conflict that contrasts sharply with Western perspectives, depicting Russians as the heroes bringing liberation to Ukrainian lands from neo-Nazis supported by the dominant West, a stark contrast to how they were portrayed during World War II fighting Nazi Germany. Photographs of dead civilians and destroyed homes are being wrongly dismissed as either fake or the result of Ukrainians shelling their own areas. A Channel 1 reporter stated that local residents in Mariupol believe that the Ukrainian military is intentionally targeting residential buildings, while others claim that nationalists were instructed to destroy the city before retreating. Polls show that many Russians are influenced by the narrative presented on state television, which portrays the war as a continuation of longstanding grievances against the West. Despite this, most state television journalists continue to amplify the message of Russia fighting for its right to exist. Anchor Liliya Gildeyeva, who recently left the state-run channel NTV, expressed understanding for her colleagues who remained, admitting that she had compromised her principles and only realized the extent of it when the war began. She stated that when you start to give in to your own desires slowly, you may not realize how far you have fallen. The shock of the war has caused a significant number of Russians to leave the country in recent weeks, with many flying to destinations like Turkey and Armenia. Among those leaving are not just journalists and activists avoiding potential arrest, but also young professionals who no longer see a future for themselves in Russia. Even some of Russia's elite have decided to leave, with the most prominent departure being Chubais, the Kremlin's climate envoy, who resigned due to the war in Ukraine and left the country. The Kremlin has confirmed that Chubais has resigned. He was viewed as one of the few officials in Putin's government who held liberal views, and his significant role in the economic reforms of the 1990s in Moscow made him unpopular among many Russians. It remains uncertain whether the discontent among some members of the elite could pose a threat to Putin's government. Likin, a former Channel 1 art director, suggested that those who are willing to resign for their beliefs are a small minority in Russia. Agalakova, a former Channel 1 correspondent, noted that many of her former colleagues who chose to remain in their positions were not motivated by any particular ideology. People who work in state television and decide to leave, especially if they speak out, face an uncertain future. Agalakova, who used to be a correspondent in Paris, mentioned that some of her friends stopped talking to her after she resigned. Likin, on the other hand, plans to stay in Russia and continue working as an architect. He mentioned that he might consider going back to television if it changes its focus from promoting violence to promoting life. Government-sponsored surveys indicate that most Russians are in favor of Putin's actions in the invasion, but experts warn that people may not be honest when responding to surveys during wartime. Agalakova now realizes that years of propaganda on Russian television have contributed to the current support for the government's policies by distorting Russians' memories of their country's sacrifices in World War II. Agalakova stated that the mention of Nazism in Ukraine by the Kremlin causes immediate reactions in society, comparing it to a deceptive and dishonest game. Due to the overwhelming propaganda, Russians who are skeptical of television have limited sources for accurate news. The Echo of Moscow radio station and TV Rain independent television channel have been shut down, while access to Facebook and Instagram has been blocked. Additionally, journalist Alexander Nevzorov is under criminal investigation for sharing information about the Russian bombing of Mariupol on his Instagram page. The most recent attempt to instill fear in critics of the war involves a new law in Russia that can result in up to 15 years in prison for going against the official narrative of the conflict in Ukraine. Denis Volkov from the Levada polling center believes that the true test of Russian public opinion will come when the economic consequences of Western sanctions are fully felt. Despite this, Volkov thinks that the Kremlin's narrative of the West undermining Ukraine and Russia heroically defending its people abroad has been deeply ingrained in the minds of television viewers and is unlikely to be challenged soon. Many Russians tend to accept news that aligns with the television narrative and reject anything that contradicts it, regardless of its truthfulness. | 2 |
The US-India Business Council (USIBC) praised the reforms proposed in the budget, such as raising the FDI cap in insurance and implementing policies to address transfer pricing challenges and promote infrastructure investment. USIBC, a major trade association representing 300 top US and Indian companies, expressed appreciation for the finance minister's leadership and described the policies as beneficial for businesses. The council emphasized the significance of lifting the insurance composite FDI cap to 49 percent without voting rights restrictions as a positive signal to the global business community. USIBC also advocated for clarity on retrospective taxation and welcomed the decision to increase the FDI cap in defense. Additionally, USIBC supported initiatives for Smart City development and public-private partnerships in airports. The US-India Political Action Committee (USINPAC), representing Indian-Americans, also welcomed the higher FDI limits in defense and insurance, highlighting the potential for technology transfer with increased investments. He stated that both of these advancements are praiseworthy and will motivate international investors, including those from the Indian diasporas, to get involved in the progress of India's defense and insurance sectors. | 2 |
After his global teleconference fell apart on September 11, 2001, a top economist at a US investment bank began to consider the implications of the attacks on the United States for the future of the world. Rather than focusing on Al Qaeda, Jim O'Neill of Goldman Sachs reflected on his recent meeting at the World Trade Center and his timely return to London before the terrorist attacks. As he prepared to take on a new role leading the bank's global economics team, O'Neill sought a significant concept to define his tenure. He ultimately determined that the period following September 11 would be characterized not by the dominance of the US or the war on terror, but by the growing influence of China, Russia, India, and Brazil as emerging market economies. O'Neill coined the term "BRICs" after the first letter of the countries' names. He recalled the moment he came up with the idea and how it signified the end of American dominance in globalization after 9/11. O'Neill, now in charge of Goldman's global asset management business, introduced the term in a pamphlet in November 2001. The data from the past decade shows that his prediction will have a significant impact on world history. When O'Neill first coined the BRIC acronym, the four major emerging economies accounted for just eight percent of the global economy. At that time, the top five economies were the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, and France. A decade later, the BRICs have exceeded O'Neill's expectations by growing faster than anticipated, now making up nearly 20 percent of the world economy. China has become the second largest economy globally, while Britain, a key ally of the US in the war on terror, has fallen out of the top five, replaced by Brazil. India and Russia are also close behind in economic growth. Following the attacks on New York and Washington, the United States quickly initiated an expensive and all-consuming global "war on terror" aimed not only at Al Qaeda but also at other perceived threats in what was termed an "axis of evil", which included Iraq under Saddam Hussein. While it may seem that the US and its allies emerged victorious in this war, with significant damage to the Al-Qaeda network, the death of key leaders, and a lack of major terror attacks in the West for several years, the true cost of this apparent success, both in terms of finances and international relations, is not immediately clear. Joseph Nye, a former US government official and current Harvard professor, pointed out that during the first decade of the 21st century, while the world economy was shifting towards Asia, the United States was heavily focused on a controversial war in the Middle East. He suggests that the actions of the United States significantly damaged its influence in diplomacy, values, and culture, while also diminishing its military and economic strength. The increase in national debt from $5.8 trillion to $14.7 trillion over the past decade is largely due to unfunded tax cuts, post-financial crisis stimulus, and increased domestic spending. America's post-9/11 conflicts significantly increased the burden, with one estimate suggesting that the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan cost up to $4.4 trillion. Nigel Inkster, a former deputy head of Britain's Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) and current head of transnational threats and political risk at London's International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), believes that the American response to 9/11 was an overreaction. He also suggests that in the grand scheme of things, the impact of 9/11 and the rise of Al Qaeda may be seen as just a minor setback. Other Western powers also took drastic measures in response to the attacks. British Prime Minister Tony Blair, like then-US president George W Bush, viewed the September 11 attacks as a pivotal moment that required a shift in global politics. Blair expressed in a television interview that although the exact actions needed were unclear, the perception of risk had changed significantly. This belief led to costly military interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan, which may have had less impact on Britain than the challenges posed by a rapidly changing global economy and internal financial issues. The Iraq war damaged Blair's reputation and leadership due to Britain's decision to go to war based on faulty intelligence about weapons of mass destruction. According to Wolfgang Ischinger, the events of September 11 shattered the belief in one superpower dominating the world, but the rise of the BRICs countries will have a more lasting impact on global power and governance. Ischinger suggests that the confusion caused by 9/11 delayed the understanding of its consequences and led some countries down the wrong path, making it less of a turning point than the financial crisis. During a flight to Houston, Texas for a meeting between Jordan's King Abdullah and Bush, Al Qaeda attacked. Jordan's ambassador to Washington, Marwan Muasher, initially feared an anti-Muslim backlash in the United States. He believes Washington managed to avoid that, but miscalculated its broader reaction and should not have started the Iraq war. Muasher, who later became foreign minister and is now a vice president at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a US think-tank, points out that other events such as the financial crisis have overshadowed the impact of 9/11. He argues that the era of US dominance was brief and unsustainable, as other powers have emerged on the global stage. Ian Bremmer, the president of Eurasia Group, believes that the world has shifted its focus away from the events of September 11. Bremmer argues that the year 2008 was a more significant turning point, marked by the financial crisis and the Beijing Olympics. He highlights how China's perception changed from being viewed as an emerging market to a global player during this time. In the 2008 Olympics opening ceremony, China displayed a bold sense of self-assurance by showcasing its new buildings in Beijing and disregarding Western concerns about human rights violations. With its significant financial influence, holding $1.2 trillion of US government debt, the West cannot afford to challenge China. When a government debt crisis struck Europe, leaders turned to China for help by purchasing euro-zone securities, a situation that would have been unthinkable in the past. In the same year, Russia, another BRIC country, successfully fought and defeated US-supported Georgia, marking the first time since 1991 that Moscow had deployed troops outside its borders. This more assertive approach by emerging powers in their own regions could potentially be adopted by countries like China or India in the future. The CEO of Moscow-based investment bank Renaissance Capital, Stephen Jennings, believes that there is a noticeable shift in investment patterns towards developing nations, with more big business deals being funded by BRIC banks and involving emerging market investors. Jennings suggests that traditional financial centers and the Western economic model are losing their dominance, as emerging market economies like Russia are becoming leaders in the new economic order. The diplomatic order has also undergone changes in response to these shifts. In 2009, during the Copenhagen climate summit, US President Barack Obama chose to negotiate a deal not with the other G8 developed countries, but with emerging powers like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa. The latter was trying to establish itself as part of the BRICS group to counterbalance older powers. The Arab Spring uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa caught both regional leaders and Western intelligence agencies off guard, including Al Qaeda. Some viewed these uprisings as a warning to authoritarian BRICS countries like China. Critics argued that the US and its allies had double standards, supporting authoritarian Arab rulers for business or counterterrorism purposes, then abandoning them when their positions became unsustainable. Recently, documents found in Libya have embarrassed Britain and the US, revealing close cooperation between their intelligence services and Col Muammar Gaddafi's regime. "In many ways, it highlights the hypocrisy of the belief that embracing the dark side was necessary to combat terrorism," said Jan Egeland, who served as Europe head of Human Rights Watch and United Nations global humanitarian chief from 2003 to 2006 and often criticized US Policy. "This damaged the reputation of the West, especially as emerging economies were already making progress in other areas." Since September 11, 2001, the world has changed in unexpected ways. While the US and its allies were engaged in wars in the Middle East, conflict decreased significantly in other parts of the world. Despite criticism from development economists like Jeffrey Sachs, who argue that the money spent on Western wars could have been used to alleviate poverty in the poorest countries, BRIC economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty, although many states still struggle with internal wealth disparities. The BRICs' increasing economic power is now being reflected in their growing military strength, while the West is experiencing financial decline leading to significant cuts in defense spending. The International Institute for Strategic Studies noted in its annual survey that while Western military budgets are being reduced, those in Asia and the Middle East are increasing rapidly, sometimes by double digits annually. This indicates a global shift in military power. For example, Britain no longer has an aircraft carrier, while China has launched its first one. Analysts like Goldman's O'Neill believe that the BRICs' economic growth will have a greater long-term impact than events like September 11. His bank is promoting the benefits of the "N-11" - the next 11 major emerging market economies after the BRICs, which include countries like Mexico, Indonesia, and Turkey. He also suggests that the attack and its aftermath might have influenced the BRICs' more assertive approach on the global stage. Some believe that the Western focus on the Middle East and terrorism may have caused them to overlook opportunities to influence the emerging new world order. However, even if they had been more attentive, it may not have made a significant difference. Former British spy Inkster stated that the unexpected shift to emerging powers caught us off guard due to the focus on the Islamic world, although it likely would have surprised us regardless. | 2 |
He has just returned from a failed summit in Hanoi with North Korea, leaving a dark cloud over his presidency. The meeting with Kim Jong Un ended in disagreement over sanctions related to North Korea's nuclear weapons program. Additionally, his former lawyer Michael Cohen's testimony accusing him of illegal activities while in office posed a potential threat to his reputation. Trump also faced challenges on multiple fronts including delicate negotiations with China, ongoing crisis in Venezuela, tensions between India and Pakistan, and opposition in Congress to his emergency declaration for funding a border wall. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election is expected to conclude soon, keeping the spotlight on Trump and his campaign's actions. Trump expressed frustration before leaving for Vietnam, believing Democrats would use the Cohen testimony to attack him, breaking an unwritten rule against criticizing the president while he is abroad. He expressed a desire for the Mueller report to be completed and was frustrated that the hearings were being held while he was out of the country. He was also disappointed that the investigation had not been finished before he left, feeling that it cast a shadow over him. While at the summit, Trump ended discussions on North Korea's denuclearization prematurely, leading to conflicting reports and uncertainty about the future of one of his key initiatives. The White House had originally planned a signing ceremony for a deal in Hanoi, but ultimately decided to cancel it. Trump’s Secretary of State Mike Pompeo criticized reporters for focusing too much on what he called "process" and dismissed their questions as being from people who were not well-informed. Pompeo advised reporters not to dwell on such details. While the summit was taking place, Trump stayed updated on Cohen's testimony despite the time zone difference. Trump's inner circle felt that the president handled the week well, as there were no surprises in Cohen's testimony and Trump was praised for walking away from a potentially bad deal with North Korea. Christopher Ruddy, a conservative media mogul and close friend of Trump, stated that they were prepared for the challenges presented by North Korea and Cohen's negative comments. Ruddy stated to Reuters that ultimately, he does not believe the Cohen testimony will affect the political atmosphere for President Trump. However, the testimony did raise concerns among Trump supporters about the effectiveness of his re-election campaign's ability to respond appropriately. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, a friend of Trump, questioned the lack of defense for the president on ABC's "This Week" program. Trump will have a supportive audience when he speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference on Saturday. At the CPAC event, Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel promptly defended Trump's actions during the Vietnam summit. "He left in a just manner because he made it clear that the sanctions will not be lifted unless there is progress on denuclearization," she stated to a round of applause. | 2 |
A growing US deficit may be a bigger threat to President Barack Obama's healthcare reforms than the Supreme Court or the 2012 elections, according to health experts. Even if the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is repealed, innovations in healthcare delivery and state health insurance exchanges are likely to continue. However, former healthcare policymakers from both Democratic and Republican administrations warn that cost control measures could be at risk if arbitrary spending cuts are made in response to fiscal pressures. Dr. Don Berwick, former head of Medicare and Medicaid under Obama, believes that cutting benefits and shifting the burden to the poor and taxpayers will only make things worse. The Affordable Care Act aims to extend coverage to over 30 million uninsured Americans by expanding Medicaid and creating state exchanges for subsidized private insurance. It also requires new ideas to steer America's $2.6 trillion healthcare system, the most expensive in the world, towards incentives for controlling costs. The law is facing strong opposition from Republicans and is entering a period of significant uncertainty. In the coming spring, the Supreme Court is expected to rule on the constitutionality of the individual mandate, a key provision of the law that mandates all Americans to purchase insurance. Months later, voters will determine whether Republicans or Democrats will have control of the White House and Congress. Current and former healthcare officials are optimistic about changes that would reward healthcare providers based on patient progress rather than the number of tests and procedures they perform. Dr. Mark McClellan, who previously oversaw Medicare, Medicaid, and the Food and Drug Administration under President George W. Bush, stated that healthcare reforms have the potential to significantly impact healthcare costs in the long term. Innovations such as "bundled payments" and rewarding healthcare providers for successful outcomes while saving money were gaining momentum in the private market before the passage of the healthcare bill in March 2010. The law's efforts to implement these innovations in Medicare and Medicaid, which together spend about $900 billion annually to care for 100 million beneficiaries, have accelerated their adoption across the United States. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, which is a year old, plans to develop approximately two dozen innovation models with private partners in the coming years. Experts believe that advancements in care delivery are important as they help healthcare providers deal with increasing cost pressures from employers and government agencies. Don Moran, a healthcare consultant in Washington who previously worked in President Ronald Reagan's Office of Management and Budget, stated that these innovations are driven by market demands rather than just reform efforts. The future of innovation in healthcare could be impacted by potential across-the-board cuts to Medicare and Medicaid after the November election, which may reinforce traditional fee-for-service healthcare. These innovations are at risk because they have not yet proven their ability to reduce costs, which makes it difficult for the Congressional Budget Office to assign concrete dollar values for deficit reduction. Gail Wilensky, who previously oversaw Medicare and Medicaid during the administration of President George H.W. Bush, is concerned that Congress may resort to the usual tactic of reducing payments to healthcare providers in order to address budget concerns. This could potentially lead to providers refusing to accept Medicare patients. She expressed these worries during a forum at the Harvard School of Public Health. Some experts believe that financial pressures may prompt the Obama administration to postpone certain aspects of the healthcare law, such as the establishment of state health insurance exchanges and the individual mandate for health coverage. Delaying the implementation of the law could lead to significant cost savings for the government and allow officials more time to establish exchanges, which have been developing slowly due to uncertainties caused by the Supreme Court case and the upcoming election. An administration official has stated that there are currently no plans to postpone the implementation of the law. Analysts believe that the election outcome is unlikely to determine the fate of the law, unless President Obama loses re-election. Even if Republicans gain a slim majority in the Senate, Congress is not expected to overcome partisan gridlock. It is possible for certain sections of the law, such as state insurance exchanges, to move forward even if the individual mandate is overturned in court, repealed after the election, or weakened due to political and budgetary pressures. McClellan suggested that rather than mandating the purchase of insurance, the government could create voluntary rules to incentivize participation in exchanges. He cited Medicare Part D as a successful example, where early enrollment is rewarded and late enrollment is penalized. While acknowledging that state exchanges may be less effective without the individual mandate, McClellan noted that this could lead to deficit savings. However, there are currently no discussions or plans to use Part D enrollment restrictions as a substitute for the individual mandate. | 2 |
Four years ago, the joint program of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), referred to the United States as Germany's "most important friend" outside of Europe. The 2013 program also emphasized the importance of the "friendship" with Washington as a key aspect of Germany's international relations, focusing on enhancing transatlantic economic ties by eliminating trade barriers. However, the latest election program, titled "For a Germany in which we live well and happily," presented by Merkel and CSU leader Horst Seehofer on Monday ahead of the September 24 election, does not include the terms "friend" or "friendship." Instead, the United States is referred to as Germany's "most important partner" outside of Europe. CDU officials were unavailable for immediate comment on the change in language. The change in wording highlights the deteriorating relations between Berlin and Washington since President Donald Trump took office in January. Trump criticized Merkel during his campaign for "ruining" Germany with migration policies he called "insane". He has also criticized Germany's trade surplus, accused European partners of owing money to NATO, and caused concern among western allies by withdrawing from the Paris climate accord. A recent survey by the Pew Research Centre showed that only 35 percent of Germans have a positive view of the United States, compared to 57 percent at the end of President Obama's term. Merkel is set to host Trump and other leaders at a G20 summit in Hamburg later this week. Instead of focusing on strengthening economic ties as mentioned in the 2013 passage, the 2017 program highlights historical US support for Germany post-World War Two and before German reunification. The new CDU/CSU election program also echoes a statement made by Merkel in Munich after a challenging G7 summit where Trump opposed staying in the Paris agreement. The program emphasizes the need for Europeans to take control of their own destiny as reliance on others is no longer as reliable. Additionally, the program reaffirms Germany's dedication to the NATO alliance while stressing the importance of the EU being able to defend itself independently for long-term survival. The text includes a new section titled "Germany and France as the Engine of Europe," which aims to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. It expresses willingness to work with the new French government to enhance the euro zone, such as by establishing a separate monetary fund. However, it rejects the idea of sharing debt in Europe and emphasizes that solidarity will be contingent on EU countries adhering to the rules of the bloc's Growth and Stability Pact. | 2 |
Here are 10 celebrities who have taken a stand in the past year to make a positive impact on the world. Meghan Markle, who joined Britain's royal family in May, has focused on women's rights. She wore "slave-free" jeans from Outland Denim in Australia, sparking a rush to buy them, and worked with survivors of London's Grenfell Tower fire on a community-led cookbook. Emma Watson, best known for her role as Hermione in the Harry Potter films, supported the #MeToo movement in 2018 by donating one million pounds to a fund that helps charities combat sexual abuse. In October, Watson penned a public letter advocating for the end of restrictive abortion laws across countries ranging from India to Ireland. Around the same time, she was also photographed wearing earrings made from shrapnel and undetonated bombs from Laos. David Attenborough, the elderly nature documentary broadcaster, used the platform of the 2018 United Nations' climate talks in Poland to align himself with young activists and emphasize the urgency of taking action on climate change. Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan solidified his popularity in India by generously paying off the debts of farmers who were struggling due to an agricultural crisis, spending over 40 million rupees ($560,000) in the process. 5. Elton John, a renowned British singer-songwriter and advocate for LGBT+ rights, urged for greater support to be provided to individuals living in poverty in order to improve their access to HIV/AIDS medical treatment, condemning the lack of access as a "disgrace." 6. Millie Bobby Brown, the young star of the popular Netflix series "Stranger Things," was appointed as the youngest goodwill ambassador for the United Nations children's agency UNICEF this year. She pledged to address issues concerning children's rights, education, poverty, and to combat bullying. Brown expressed her excitement, calling the opportunity a "dream come true." Michelle Obama, the ex-first lady of the US, has been advocating for women's rights and girls' education while promoting her memoir internationally. Obama, who was raised in a working-class family in Chicago, aims to empower women to find hope in challenging political and social circumstances. David Beckham, the former captain of the English soccer team, has partnered with the charity Malaria No More UK to support a campaign to revitalize the global effort against malaria. The former athlete appeared in a short film where he was surrounded by mosquitoes to draw attention to the fact that malaria still claims the lives of approximately 445,000 individuals each year, as reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Cate Blanchett, an Australian actress and United Nations' refugee goodwill ambassador, voiced her concerns about the Rohingya crisis, calling on nations to increase their support for refugees escaping Myanmar and seeking refuge in Bangladesh. Despite being a two-time Oscar winner, Blanchett emphasized the urgent need to act swiftly to protect Rohingya refugees. Princess Beatrice, the eighth in line to the British throne, has been actively working to address the issue of online abuse and cyber-bullying, particularly targeting young women and girls. She is involved in a larger anti-bullying campaign supported by celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Cara Delevingne, known as "Be Cool Be Nice." | 2 |
The racially charged graffiti reading "KKK Bitch" appeared in mid-October in Kokomo, Indiana, on cars, homes, and telephone poles. Many of the victims, including Peters, were African American, while others were not. Some of the victims had Democratic candidate lawn signs for the upcoming presidential election, which were painted over with the Ku Klux Klan initials. Peters believes that the divisive nature of the presidential campaign, particularly the aggressive and nativist language used by Republican candidate Donald Trump, has emboldened extremists. She believes that when political leaders make ignorant statements, it may give others the impression that such behavior is acceptable, which she finds deeply troubling. Our country appears to be regressing. The police have no leads in the attacks, but Democrats suspect political motives. Local Republicans are doubtful, attributing the damage to ignorant troublemakers. The divisive political rhetoric is spreading across the country, polarizing the public. The impact is difficult to measure due to the lack of national data on politically motivated crimes and inflammatory speech. However, there has been an increase in the percentage of voters who believe it is acceptable to insult political opponents, rising from 30 percent in March to 43 percent in October, according to surveys conducted by the non-partisan Pew Research Center during the campaign season. A majority of voters from both parties have negative views of the opposing party, a trend that is unprecedented since Pew began asking this question in 1992. Trust in government is currently at an all-time low. Brian Levin, director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, believes these indicators point to growing inter-group tensions that can lead to various levels of aggression, including extreme acts. The focus of much of the hostility has been on immigrants, African Americans, and other groups associated with Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, but Republicans have also been targeted. The discussion on extremism has mainly centered around the Alt-Right, a movement consisting of white nationalists, anti-Semites, and immigration opponents that has aligned itself with the Trump campaign after emerging from obscurity. A person who supports the Ku Klux Klan was photographed with his tattoos during a rally at the statehouse in Columbia, South Carolina on July 18, 2015. Trump's promises to construct a wall along the Mexican border, remove millions of undocumented immigrants, and closely examine Muslims for connections to terrorism have sparked enthusiasm within the Alt-Right community. Michael Hill, a self-professed white supremacist and leader of the League of the South, believes that the Alt-Right's rhetoric has helped validate their concerns about the decline of the white, Christian majority in the country. Hill stated that the political climate surrounding certain campaigns has been beneficial for right-wing groups, including his own. Nationalist sentiments have also been on the rise in other countries such as Russia, Japan, and Britain, where a pro-EU lawmaker was killed during the Brexit debate. In the United States, there have been numerous reports of hostile political acts, vandalism, and violence, such as the burning of a black church in Mississippi and the spray painting of a building with "Nazi Republicans leave town" in North Carolina. A man in Utah who had Trump yard signs on display discovered KKK graffiti on his car, while in Wisconsin, a fan at a college football game wore a President Barack Obama mask with a noose around his neck. Both the Trump and Clinton campaigns did not respond to requests for comment. Jared Taylor, a white nationalist, stated that Trump's beliefs align with the Alt-Right's goal of "slowing the dispossession of whites," but he believes the media is exaggerating Trump's support within the Alt-Right in order to discredit him. Critics from both sides, including Democrats and some Republicans, have reproached Trump for being slow to denounce extreme elements of the political right. However, when a prominent KKK newspaper published a favorable article about Trump, his campaign quickly released a statement denouncing it as "repulsive." Despite this, figures like Taylor, Hill, and other Alt-Right members claim they do not support vandalism or violence. They argue that their rhetoric should not be classified as hate speech and believe they are unfairly targeted and vilified by the left. On the other hand, left-wing extremists have a history of aggressively confronting individuals or groups they perceive as fascist or racist, according to Heidi Beirich of the Southern Poverty Law Center, an organization that tracks extremist movements. She mentioned that the anti-racists often engage in more violence than the racists. The First Amendment of the US Constitution provides extensive protections for controversial speech. However, laws at the state and federal levels do allow law enforcement to investigate and charge individuals for committing "hate crimes" targeting individuals based on race, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. Research conducted by California State University reported a 6 percent rise in hate crimes last year, with a significant increase of 86 percent in crimes against Muslims. Some individuals involved in politics and academia believe that there has been a gradual decline in respectful behavior that predates the current presidential campaign. Craig Dunn, the Republican party chairman for Howard County, Indiana, which encompasses Kokomo, suggests that a small number of extreme viewpoints are being magnified through the use of the Internet and social media, contributing to a general breakdown in politeness. Local leaders are concerned about the impact on their community. Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight, a Democrat, notes that the atmosphere has become more volatile and tense. He finds the recent graffiti incidents particularly alarming, stating, “I do not recall anything like this ever occurring before.” Monica Fowler, a 43-year-old resident who had her Democratic yard signs defaced with “KKK,” is struggling to cope with the hate-filled attacks. She acknowledges that it is acceptable to have differing opinions, but strongly condemns actions that may frighten or hurt someone else. | 2 |
The Dhaka City Corporation is struggling with inadequate dumpsters to handle the waste in the capital, prompting a youth-based organization called Footsteps to propose a solution. They plan to privatize trash cans by selling them to businesses, who will then place them in front of their offices for public use. These trash cans will not only help keep the city clean but also serve as a part of a company's Corporate Social Responsibility. The cans will be sold for Tk 5000 each and will come with metal chains to prevent theft. Any additional revenue generated will be used to provide winter clothes to the less fortunate. Footsteps encourages companies to buy multiple cans for maximum impact. The maintenance of the cans will be the responsibility of the purchasing company. This initiative is seen as a win-win situation for both the environment and the companies involved, as it will lead to decreased littering and serve as an effective advertisement campaign. Founded in 2012, Footsteps aims to engage Bangladeshi youth in various social issues and has volunteers working to promote the sale of the cans. | 2 |
Fifty years after the opening of the first atomic power plant in Obninsk near Moscow, nuclear power is becoming more appealing due to climate change concerns, despite the lack of a final solution for storing toxic waste. Studies show that the world's 439 nuclear power plants release minimal greenhouse gases, preventing emissions equivalent to those of Japan each year compared to fossil fuel-generated electricity. However, the risks of accidents, such as the one at Chernobyl in 1986, present difficult decisions for governments considering nuclear power as a tool against global warming. According to Rajendra Pachauri, head of the UN Climate Panel, nuclear power is not a simple choice, as it currently accounts for a significant portion of global electricity generation. In order to handle toxic waste that can remain hazardous for thousands of years, countries need to have proper institutions and disposal sites in place. Each country has the right to make its own decisions regarding this matter. Despite the lack of permanent repositories for high-level waste even decades after the Obninsk reactor opened in 1954, some countries like Britain, Finland, and France are investing in new nuclear power stations. Additionally, companies in the United States are beginning to file licence applications for new plants, with a total of thirty-four plants currently under construction globally. While some are in favor of nuclear power due to factors such as climate change, energy security, and high oil prices, others continue to oppose it. Jan Beranek from Greenpeace believes that the idea of a 'nuclear renaissance' is gaining popularity as countries consider nuclear power as a solution for climate change and energy security. However, he argues that investing in nuclear energy is not the best option, as it takes away resources that could be used for renewable energy sources like wind, hydro, solar, and tidal power. Norwegian Environment Minister Erik Solheim agrees, pointing out the challenges of storing nuclear waste. Instead, Norway advocates for technology to capture and bury carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel power plants. Despite these concerns, the U.N. climate panel led by Pachauri stated in 2007 that nuclear power can effectively help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The panel cited a study that highlighted how nuclear power helps in avoiding 1.5 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases annually, in comparison to the global average emissions from electricity generation. In 2005, Japan's greenhouse gas emissions were around 1.4 billion tonnes. However, other research suggests that nuclear emissions could be higher due to factors like ore processing and decommissioning. There are also concerns about the environmental impact of nuclear power, as well as fears of terrorist attacks on nuclear plants or the potential misuse of technology for making bombs. Ferenc Toth, a senior energy economist at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), mentioned that the immediate association with nuclear power is still linked to incidents like Chernobyl. The IAEA estimates that the radiation leak at Chernobyl could result in the deaths of 4,000 people living closest to the plant and an additional 5,000 people further away. Toth pointed out that the environmental benefits of nuclear power, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, are not widely recognized. He also stated that nuclear power could be a viable option for developing countries, like China, to reduce air pollution in cities like Beijing. In India, a study by the IAEA suggested that nuclear power could be a cost-effective alternative to coal power plants located more than 800 kms away due to high transportation costs. He observed that large developing countries were also exploring ways to reduce their increasing greenhouse gas emissions in the long run, even though they are not currently restricted under the U.N.'s Kyoto Protocol, which aims to combat climate change until 2012. The UN Climate Panel mentioned that while there are temporary storage facilities for waste, there are no permanent repositories for high-level waste like spent light-water reactor fuel. Finland and Sweden are closest to implementing deep geological storage, according to Toth. The Yucca Mountain site in the United States may take a decade or more to be completed. However, he also mentioned that advancements in technology could potentially allow for the recycling of waste before it needs to be permanently buried. | 2 |
Marguerite Hanley, a native Californian living in Amsterdam, is a traveler who has recognized the importance of our actions on a global scale, including the impacts of COVID and human encroachment on habitats, as well as how we treat others in our community. In light of this, Hanley has decided to scale back her ambitious honeymoon plans in Africa to focus on supporting conservation and local communities in Botswana. By staying longer in fewer locations and reducing her carbon footprint, Hanley hopes to make a positive impact while also embracing the principles of slow travel, which parallels the slow food movement in its emphasis on sustainability, localism, and artisanal traditions. The enduring appeal of walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in Spain has been attracting more travelers recently for various reasons. These include seeking solace in social distancing, avoiding flight-shaming, finding meditative moments, or practicing caution inspired by the pandemic. These slower, more mindful trips involve visiting fewer places and traveling at a slower pace by car, train, bike, foot, or canoe. Slow travel prioritizes the experience over a packed itinerary, focusing on intentionally choosing to do less in order to experience more. Instead of rushing through activities, slow travel is focused on finding a balance in pace and leaving room for spontaneity. The pandemic has inadvertently led many people to embrace a slower lifestyle, which has contributed to the rise of the slow travel movement. Environmental improvements observed during the pandemic have influenced individuals like Julia Douglas to opt for more sustainable travel options, such as walking or taking a train instead of flying. Despite a decline in commuter train ridership, long-distance train travel has seen a resurgence, with Amtrak Vacations reporting a 47 percent increase in bookings compared to 2019. In Europe, the European Union has declared 2021 as the European Year of Rail to emphasize sustainable transportation, leading to a resurgence in long-distance train travel. Night train networks are making a return, and Midnight Trains, a new startup, is planning to introduce luxury sleeper cars on routes from Paris to over 10 cities starting in 2024. The ability to work from anywhere, a result of the pandemic, has allowed many to extend their travels. Airbnb reported a 10 percent increase in stays of 28 days or more in the first quarter of 2021 compared to the same period in 2019. Exclusive Resorts, a membership home rental service, saw a 550 percent growth in bookings of 21 days or more in 2021 compared to 2019. The current travel requirements, such as testing and entry applications, are causing delays in travel. Before the pandemic, travelers would often visit multiple countries in one trip, but now many are opting for single-country safaris due to COVID-19 testing and flight disruptions. Getting a COVID-19 test before returning to the United States is a necessary step that slows things down. In response to the complications of travel, some companies are recommending clients to add extra days at the end of their trip to handle testing requirements. This shift in travel behavior is not only due to practical reasons, but also a change in mindset towards more relaxed and flexible travel experiences. There is a soothing appeal for travelers who may be feeling overwhelmed after a year of coexisting with the coronavirus. Up Norway, a luxury travel company, has started offering the concept of "kos," a Norwegian term for peace and gratitude that is experienced when one takes their time to travel and appreciate the simple joys of culture and nature. This is in contrast to the typical rushed sightseeing trips to major tourist attractions, as people are now seeking more remote and peaceful locations for longer stays. According to Denise Ambrusko-Maida, a travel adviser, travelers are moving away from crowded tourist hotspots in Europe and Asia. Rebecca Werner, a travel adviser based in Chicago, recently arranged a train trip to Glacier National Park for a family from Wisconsin who enjoy the show "The Queen's Gambit." This trip allowed them to bond with their children, enjoy the scenery, and play chess on the train. Instead of focusing on a traditional bucket list, travelers like David Demers of Naples, Florida, are now prioritizing their personal interests when planning trips. Demers, who recently sold his health care company, is working with a bespoke travel agency to organize two month-long trips to Israel and the Mediterranean next year, allowing him ample time to explore his passion for history, theatre, food, and art. The pandemic has taught many travelers the value of slowing down and focusing on what truly matters. To cater to this new mindset, travel company Sojrn has launched monthlong trips centered around educational themes, such as philosophy in Athens, wine in Italy, or Spanish language in Colombia. Travellers choose to stay in local apartments and take part in weekly dinners and events, allowing for plenty of free time to work and explore. Cara Wright from Apple Valley, Minnesota, is adopting a more spontaneous approach during her upcoming trip to Italy with Sojrn, as she continues her work for a nonprofit. Another traveller, Donna Hetrick, a potter from Pittsburgh heading to Africa, values slow travel as a means to reduce her environmental impact. Instead of a short safari, Hetrick plans to spend several months biking in Africa starting in 2022 with TDA Global Cycling, aiming to lessen her carbon footprint, immerse herself in the culture, and form connections during her extended journey. “When you’re riding a bicycle, you are more open to interactions with people,” she explained. Slow tourism, which emphasizes responsible travel practices like exploring lesser-known areas, engaging with local communities, and supporting small businesses, is seen as a solution to overtourism, the issue of overcrowding in popular destinations like Dubrovnik. Martha Honey, an expert in sustainable travel, believes that slow tourism is more sustainable because it encourages visitors to spend more time in a location and disperse the benefits of tourism. She describes slow travel as a positive experience for both the traveller and the destination, and attributes the rise in popularity of slow tourism principles to the recent focus on supporting local businesses during the pandemic. Honey also highlights that slow tourism is less disruptive and more economically beneficial overall. According to a recent survey by Flywire, a payment-processing service, the popularity of destinations like Alaska and Montana this summer shows that travelers are seeking uncrowded places. For eco-conscious travelers looking for a unique experience, Responsible Travel has introduced an 11-week trip around the world by train and cargo ship, allowing for a deeper connection with different cultures and environments. For those who prefer a slower pace, human-powered travel like hiking, biking, and paddling provide a closer connection to nature and the small details often missed at higher speeds. Kristi Growdon, a personal golf trainer from Seattle, emphasized the unique perspective gained from cycling slowly compared to driving. VBT Bicycling Vacations has almost sold out all domestic trips this year. The Maine Island Trail Association saw a 23 percent increase in membership last year, offering access to information about a route across over 200 undeveloped islands along the Maine coast. Sea Kayak Stonington, owned by Michael and Rebecca Daugherty, provides rentals and guided trips to islands on the trail, offering a perspective on the intertidal zone that larger boats cannot access. Michael, an artist, and Rebecca, have paddled 625 miles along the Maine coast, resulting in their 2020 book "Upwest & Downeast." Michael emphasized the importance of taking time to truly see and appreciate a place. During my 55-day trip, I realized that the pace was not slow enough for me. Tour operators are now offering more relaxed vacation packages in response to this trend. Backroads, an active travel company, recently introduced a new division called Dolce Tempo, which allows travelers to enjoy a more leisurely pace. The 2021 trips have already sold out, and for 2022, they plan to add 100 new Dolce Tempo departures both domestically and internationally. Some of the upcoming destinations include Scandinavia, England, and along the Danube River. While it only takes about 5 1/2 hours to drive from Denver to Moab, Utah, travelers can now opt for a more scenic two-day journey on the Rocky Mountaineer train with an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado starting in August. The newly popular Rockies to the Red Rocks route has been expanded due to high demand, with the inaugural season now extended to Nov 19. Notably, there is no Wi-Fi available on board. In southern Utah, the new Aquarius Trail Hut System features five backcountry huts made from recycled shipping containers and powered by solar energy along a 190-mile biking route from Brian Head Peak to Escalante. Cyclists ride through the Dixie National Forest, past the hoodoos of Red Canyon, and near Bryce Canyon National Park. Jared Fisher, owner of Escape Adventures in Las Vegas, created the Aquarius Trail Hut System over five years to make bike-packing more accessible by providing food and bedding, reducing the need for extensive gear and planning. Fisher, a passionate bike-packer, has traveled across the United States three times. He shared that he appreciates the freedom and peace of mind that comes with biking, as well as being able to fully experience and connect with nature. | 2 |
Pakistani comedian Alamzeb Mujahid, also known as Janaan, announced his retirement from showbiz at a news conference after being freed from kidnapping by Islamist militants in Peshawar city. While Mujahid did not provide details about his kidnapping or reasons for quitting, friends and colleagues believe he was targeted by Islamist vigilantes seeking to impose Taliban-style values in the North West Frontier Province. Despite his successful career in theater and television, the 38-year-old actor is now growing a beard for his future beyond comedy. Reluctant to discuss his life-changing experience, Mujahid told Reuters that he was joining Tablighi Jamaat, a Muslim missionary group, in order to preach religion. He solemnly stated, "God has provided for me in the past and will continue to do so." Mujahid was fortunate, as others who had angered militant morality squads were not given a second chance. A recent incident in January involved a woman named Shabana, a dancer, who was pulled onto the street and shot in the center of Mingora, a town in Swat, a valley located about 130 km (80 miles) north of the capital Islamabad, where militants hold significant control. In December, gunmen attempted to assassinate Pashtun singer Sardar Yousafzai in Dir district as he was returning home from performing at a wedding. Although he managed to escape, his harmonium player, Anwar Gul, was killed and four others were injured in the attack. The atmosphere for individuals involved in the entertainment industry in the area became hostile after Islamist parties gained power in NWFP, fueled by anti-American sentiment following the US invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. These disapproving parties prohibited music on public transportation and removed movie posters featuring women, while militants took even more extreme measures. Initially, music stores in tribal regions like Waziristan were targeted, followed by a spread of attacks throughout the northwest as the influence of Islamist groups expanded towards urban areas. In June, armed Taliban militants moved through Peshawar, warning music store owners to shut down or face repercussions. This incident caused alarm in Pakistan shortly after a civilian government took office, prompting security forces to take action. Subsequently, more tribal areas and districts in the NWFP have become hubs for militants, leading to military offensives in regions like Bajaur and Mohmand. Although progress is being made in certain areas, insecurity is deteriorating in others, including Peshawar. The defeat of Islamist parties in NWFP after an election last year initially brought optimism that the region would once again be a safe place for cultural activities. However, the secular Pashtun party currently in power has not been able to fulfill this promise, despite its positive intentions. Syed Aqil Shah, who serves as the provincial minister for sports and culture, emphasized the importance of all individuals taking a stand against militants. He stressed that addressing these threats cannot solely be the responsibility of the government, but requires the collective effort of the entire population and civil society. Despite the dangers involved, many individuals, including singers and musicians, have already chosen to leave the country, with others planning to do the same. "I am afraid to leave my house. Even when I do go out, my wife constantly calls to make sure I am safe," shared a singer who requested anonymity out of concern for possible retaliation by militants. "The fear is overwhelming. That's why I am considering moving abroad." Some others have opted for safer means of supporting their families financially. A musician, who now makes a living selling fruit and vegetables, lamented that ninety percent of the music industry is no longer thriving. His harmonium sat next to him, unused and gathering dust. | 2 |
Trump, a Republican, has been accused by Democrats of fueling racial divisions. In response to the killings in El Paso, where racial hatred was identified as a possible motive, Trump called for Americans to denounce racism, bigotry, and white supremacy. The suspect, a 21-year-old white man named Patrick Crusius, has been charged with capital murder in the shooting at a Walmart store. Although police linked a racist manifesto posted online to the suspect, Trump did not address allegations that his own anti-immigrant and racially charged comments have contributed to tensions. He also did not advocate for extensive gun control measures, but emphasized the need to defeat these harmful ideologies. "Hate should not exist in America. Hatred distorts thinking, destroys emotions, and consumes the spirit." Democrats, who have advocated for more stringent gun regulations, promptly criticized Trump for deflecting attention to mental health and social media instead of supporting laws to reduce gun violence. Trump is set to visit El Paso on Wednesday, according to Mayor Dee Margo. Beto O'Rourke, a former congressman and native of El Paso who is currently running for the Democratic presidential nomination, suggested that Trump should not visit the border city in southwest Texas. O'Rourke tweeted that the president, who he believes contributed to the hatred that led to the tragedy in El Paso, should not visit the city. Other Democratic candidates also accused Trump of fueling the attack with his anti-immigrant rhetoric. Five Democrats attended the annual conference of UnidosUS in San Diego on Monday. The group's president, Janet Murguia, referred to Trump as the "radicalizer-in-chief." Joe Biden, the leading Democratic candidate and former vice president under Barack Obama, focused on gun attacks in his speech, calling on Trump to address the issue of hatred fueled by divisive rhetoric. Obama, who previously pushed for gun restrictions during his presidency, also spoke out against divisive language without directly naming Trump. Obama stated that we must strongly oppose the words spoken by any of our leaders that promote fear, hatred, or normalize racist beliefs. Trump, for example, began his 2015 presidential campaign by labeling Mexican immigrants as rapists and drug smugglers, and has referred to illegal border-crossings as an "invasion," describing the migrants as "very bad thugs and gang members." In a tragic incident at the El Paso Walmart, eight Mexican citizens were among the 22 individuals killed by a man who drove from his home in the Dallas suburb of Allen, 660 miles away. Shortly after, another gunman in Dayton, Ohio killed nine people before being shot by police. The motive behind this second attack is not yet known. White House adviser Kellyanne Conway confirmed on Fox News that President Trump will be traveling to both El Paso and Dayton, but did not provide a specific date for either visit. The recent increase in mass shootings by lone attackers has raised concerns about gun violence and the influence of racist and white-supremacist ideologies. Trump, who has been criticized for not addressing domestic extremist groups effectively, stated that he will instruct the US Justice Department to investigate domestic terrorism and will propose legislation to ensure that those who commit hate crimes and mass murder receive the death penalty. He also emphasized the need for reforms in mental health laws to identify individuals with mental health issues and to collaborate with social media companies to identify potential mass shooters. He stated the importance of preventing individuals deemed to be a serious danger to public safety from obtaining firearms, and ensuring that there is a quick legal process in place to confiscate those firearms if necessary. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican and supporter of Trump, mentioned discussing legislation with Trump that he plans to introduce in September with Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal. This legislation would provide federal grant money to states that implement "red flag" laws, which allow law enforcement to take weapons from those deemed a threat of violent behavior. Trump also mentioned the need for strong background checks for gun buyers in a Twitter post, although he did not provide further details and it was not the main focus of his White House statement. In his speech, he stated that mental illness and hatred are what leads to gun violence, not the gun itself. This statement was quickly criticized, with Senator Amy Klobuchar accusing Trump of avoiding the topic of gun control. She pointed out that while mental illness and hate are present worldwide, the US has a high rate of gun violence. Following a mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017, Trump suggested banning bump stocks, which allow semi-automatic weapons to function like machine guns. The ban was implemented in March, but Trump decided not to make major changes to gun laws. Instead, he suggested bipartisan efforts to enhance background checks, possibly along with immigration reform. Democrats, who oppose Trump's immigration policies, did not support this idea. Lawmakers will not be back in session on Capitol Hill until September. The US House of Representatives, led by Democrats, has approved a bill that requires background checks for all gun buyers. Democratic leaders are urging Republican Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell to bring the Senate back into session to vote on the bill. However, McConnell is calling for bipartisan collaboration to address mass shootings, criticizing partisan tactics and campaign rhetoric without directly mentioning guns. | 2 |
Sisi, whose face can be seen on posters, t-shirts, and even chocolates across Egypt, evokes fear among his opponents who worry about the return of a military president. However, to investors and many Egyptians, Sisi represents a chance for stability after years of political unrest following the Arab Spring. Despite his role in toppling Egypt's first freely-elected president, Mohamed Mursi, Sisi is seen as a potential solution to the country's economic and political challenges. His strong popularity suggests he will likely win the upcoming presidential elections. While Sisi is known for his decisive nature, he will need to address the significant economic issues facing Egypt. Many believe that he is the leader who can bring much-needed calm to the country. Western investors also appear to have confidence in Sisi's ability to lead. Sterne stated that the change in attire from camouflage fatigues to a business suit by President Sisi is seen as a symbol of stability. Egyptian industry and investment minister Mounir Fakhry Abdel Nour acknowledges that Western governments may be cautious about this change but believes that investors will appreciate it in the long run. He mentioned that in the West, the election of a military officer to the presidency of a developing country may be viewed skeptically, but in the current state of Egypt, a strong leader is needed for unity and progress. Law and order are seen as beneficial for investment and the economy, as stated at the Cairo bourse. Throughout history, generals-turned-politicians have had varying reputations, with George Washington being widely praised as a statesman for his leadership in the war of independence and presidency. Augusto Pinochet, a strongman who overthrew an elected Chilean government in 1973, implemented economic reforms but faced accusations of serious human rights abuses during his dictatorship. Security forces cracked down on pro-Brotherhood activists protesting Mursi's overthrow, leading to hundreds of deaths. Despite efforts to curb dissent and public gatherings, Sinai-based Islamist militants have carried out high-profile attacks. The economy has struggled due to massive debt, a weak Egyptian pound, and political uncertainty, deterring foreign direct investment. However, aid from Gulf allies has boosted infrastructure growth and allowed for economic reforms. Household spending in Egypt has increased, and foreign companies like Samsung and Coca-Cola have made significant investments in the country. Overall, foreign direct investment has been slow to grow, reaching $1.25 billion between July and September last year. Total FDI reached $3 billion in the year ending June 2013, a decrease of nearly $1 billion compared to the previous year, during a period of turmoil in Egypt. Prior to the 2011 revolution, Egypt was attracting approximately $8 billion in net FDI annually. The stock market in Egypt has recently reached a five-year high and the global economy is in better shape than during Mubarak's presidency, which should create a more favorable investment environment for Sisi. However, concerns have been raised about Sisi's retention of officials and policies from the Mubarak era, which could hinder growth and maintain financial vulnerabilities. Sisi has not provided much detail on his economic policies, but has acknowledged the challenging economic conditions in Egypt. He discussed the issue of fuel subsidies costing $15 billion annually, draining foreign currency that could be used to pay off debts and improve payment terms. Investment minister Abdel Nour suggested that President Sisi may use his popularity to implement necessary but difficult economic reforms. Arabtec signed a $40 billion deal to build homes in Egypt, signaling potential Gulf investment in the country's infrastructure. Gulf companies, with their cohesive shareholder base, may be more willing to invest in Egypt compared to Western firms. Western investors, concerned about violence, are more cautious and have a short-term outlook. The influx of Gulf cash has encouraged Western investors to follow suit, but opinions are divided on whether an IMF loan with tough reforms is the solution. Legal obstacles, rather than corruption and subsidies, may be hindering Western companies from investing in Egypt. Moheb Malak, an economist based in Cairo at Prime Securities, emphasized the importance of legislation in addition to subsidy reform, noting that it is currently not receiving much attention. A proposed investment law is aimed at preventing third parties from disputing contracts between the government and investors in order to encourage more investment. These clauses are meant to reassure investors who have been unsettled by previous legal challenges that have left government-sold companies in uncertain legal situations. Malak also mentioned that while Egypt may need a strong leader, it also requires significant improvements to its investment policy. | 2 |
On Wednesday, Israel stated its willingness to make difficult compromises in order to achieve peace with the Palestinians through an Arab initiative supported by Egypt and Jordan. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert emphasized in an article for Britain's Guardian newspaper that any negotiations should be conducted through open and sincere discussions, rather than as ultimatums. He expressed a serious consideration of the offer for full normalization of relations between Israel and the Arab world and emphasized the importance of pursuing a comprehensive peace with energy and vision alongside Jordan and Egypt, and potentially other Arab states. However, Olmert stressed that the talks should be approached as a dialogue, rather than imposing ultimatums. His comments were released a day after the 40th anniversary of the Six Day War, in which Israel defeated Egypt, Jordan, and Syria in a week, gaining control of the Sinai peninsula, Golan Heights, Gaza Strip, and West Bank, including Arab East Jerusalem. The Arab peace plan, approved at a summit in March, proposes normalizing relations between Israel and the Arab world in exchange for a Palestinian state and full withdrawal from the territories taken in the 1967 conflict. Olmert has expressed willingness to discuss the Arab proposal, but progress has been slow, especially due to recent tensions between Israelis and Palestinians, exacerbated by violence in Gaza. A scheduled summit between Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, intended to address Palestinian statehood, was postponed at the request of Palestinian officials who stated that certain agreements needed to be finalized before talks could proceed. In a column published alongside Olmert's, Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh emphasized that for peace to be achieved, Israel must acknowledge the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people, including the right of refugees from the 1948 conflict to return. Haniyeh stated that the 1967 war led to ongoing conflicts and instability in the Middle East, and called for Israel to withdraw from occupied territories, dismantle settlements in the West Bank, release Palestinian prisoners, and recognize the right of refugees to return. Haniyeh asserted that Israel must recognize these basic rights if it is serious about achieving peace. Our fight for freedom and the reunification of all our children in a fully independent Palestinian state, with Jerusalem as its capital, cannot be halted. | 2 |
Major technology and manufacturing companies such as Intel Corp and International Business Machines Corp have recently entered the solar power business, signaling a potential trend among corporate giants to take advantage of the increasing demand for clean energy sources. This move has been seen as a positive development for the solar industry, according to Rhone Resch, president of the Solar Energy Industries Association, who made the comments during an interview at the Renewable Energy Finance Forum conference in New York. Resch believes that this marks the start of high-tech and energy companies venturing into solar energy. Solar power is still a small contributor to global energy consumption, but companies that produce solar panels are experiencing rapid growth due to increased concerns about climate change and higher prices for fossil fuels. Companies like SunPower Corp and Q-Cells AG have transformed from small start-ups into billion-dollar businesses in just a few years. Other companies, such as Applied Materials Inc and Cypress Semiconductor Corp, have also entered the solar market, recognizing the similarities between their industries and solar technology. As these companies have found success, others are now looking to enter the fast-growing market. Kevin Genieser, who leads Morgan Stanley's renewable energy investment banking practice, stated that strategic players bring the ability to facilitate large-scale manufacturing in the solar industry. He anticipates an increase in merger and acquisition activity in the sector. Recently, Intel announced the spin-off of its solar technology into a startup called SpectraWatt Inc, while IBM partnered with Tokyo Ohka Kogyo Co Ltd to develop more efficient solar power technologies. Intel is investing $50 million in SpectraWatt, with plans to start shipping its solar cells next year, and IBM and TOK intend to license their thin film solar technology in the next few years. Additionally, Robert Bosch GmbH revealed plans to acquire German solar cell maker Ersol for 1.08 billion euros ($1.67 billion) earlier this month. Bosch, the world's largest automotive supplier, is privately owned. Hewlett-Packard Co, the world's largest computer maker, recently announced that it would license its clear transistor technology to Xtreme Energetics, a solar power company based in Livermore, California. This move has been seen as a positive development for the solar power industry, with corporate giants showing interest and investing in the technology. Analysts believe that announcements from companies like Intel, IBM, and HP, along with Bosch's acquisition of Ersol, are proof of the long-term potential and credibility of solar power. SunPower's CEO, Tom Werner, also acknowledges the significance of major players like Intel and IBM entering the solar business, as it helps in establishing solar power as a legitimate and sustainable industry. Werner mentioned that IBM and Intel will increase competition, but stated that SunPower's established business has a significant edge. He stated in an interview that this will motivate them to improve. Resch and Pichel also commented that new competitors entering the market are unlikely to harm established companies due to high demand for solar panels. There are people who believe that the large companies entering the solar energy industry may be arriving too late. Ashok Kumar, an analyst at CRT Capital Group, stated that these companies may be behind in building scale compared to other existing players in the market. | 2 |
An insulting nickname that was once used to describe the lackluster final years of Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev is now being increasingly associated with Putin. Despite government promises over the years, Russia has not yet developed a modern pension savings system, improved regulations to create a competitive financial market like Dubai, or invested in its deteriorating infrastructure. With the burden of hefty public sector pay increases before the recent presidential election, the Russian government's latest budget plans to spend $620 billion by 2020 on upgrading the military, while cutting funds for infrastructure and education. These priorities have disappointed business leaders who are eager for improvements to the aging road network. Despite Putin's repeated promises to reduce the economy's reliance on oil and gas exports, the Kremlin now needs the oil price to exceed $110 to balance its budget, which is more than double the price required five years ago. In the realm of foreign policy, Medvedev's plan to improve relations with the United States has not progressed as anticipated. Moscow has instead focused on issues like Syria and establishing a free trade area with Belarus and Kazakhstan. Alexei Pushkov, head of the Duma's Foreign Affairs Committee, expresses Russia's desire to be an independent force in its region and emphasizes that Russia wants to maintain its own identity rather than emulate the West. A notable difference between Russia and the West is evident in the treatment of the punk feminist group Pussy Riot, who were sentenced to jail for a protest in a Moscow cathedral. Putin stated that the women received a punishment they deserved for their performance, which he deemed as vulgar and a threat to Russia's moral values. Western governments and human rights groups were shocked by the excessive punishment given to Pussy Riot. However, many believe that the harsh treatment of the group may indicate a deeper issue of Kremlin insecurity in the face of growing dissatisfaction among the urban, educated population with Putin's leadership, despite the decrease in street protests seen in Moscow last winter. Yekaterina Samutsevich, a former member of Pussy Riot, expressed her belief in a small McDonald's restaurant in Krasnogorsk, a dormitory town north of Moscow, that Russia's future under Putin is uncertain and could potentially lead to a collapse similar to the Soviet Union. It is yet to be seen whether Putin's vision of a strong, stable, great power or the apocalyptic prediction of a young punk rocker will come true. In the meantime, both Russia's people and its business elite are showing their support through their actions. Putin is not gaining popularity. | 2 |
The US Army is currently making efforts to reduce its carbon footprint in order to decrease greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2015. These efforts include limiting the use of fossil fuels in forward areas like Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as training ranges in the United States. This initiative not only aims to protect the environment but also to save the lives of soldiers who are targeted while transporting fuel. Deputy Assistant Secretary Tad Davis is leading this push towards more environmentally sustainable operations within the Army. "We aim to reduce emissions and decrease energy consumption from fossil fuels while working together to achieve this goal," Davis stated. The Army has prioritized environmental sustainability across all bases, starting with Fort Bragg in North Carolina in 2001. This involved redesigning training ranges, which previously included mock towns and villages costing up to $400,000 each to construct. Davis explained that now shipping containers are being repurposed from recycled truck sizes at a cost of $25,000 each, helping to keep them out of the solid waste stream. During the early years of the Iraq war, convoys were at risk from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) due to the long supply chain from Kuwait to the battlefield, with much of the cargo being fuel. To reduce the risk to soldiers, it was logical to decrease the amount of fuel needed on the front line by implementing renewable energy sources like wind or solar power on forward operating bases instead of relying on diesel generators. This would in turn reduce the number of supply convoys targeted by IEDs. A recent study conducted on U.S. forward bases in Djibouti, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan found that a significant amount of power, over 85 percent, was being used for air conditioning. This was necessary not only for providing comfort for sleeping but also to keep communications equipment cool. The standard practice in these areas is to use poorly insulated tents and temporary buildings, which posed a challenge in keeping them cool. The solution to this was to spray foam insulation directly on tents, which reduced energy loss by 45 percent. However, reducing greenhouse emissions from Army vehicles is a separate challenge, as making vehicles like the Humvee or Bradley fighting vehicle lighter to save fuel could compromise the protection offered to troops. Davis suggested that the military may soon start using lighter armor technology, leading to more hybrid vehicles in their fleet. He also questioned the idea that the US military is a major emitter of greenhouse gases, but the Army is beginning to track their carbon emissions starting with Fort Carson in Colorado. The system revealed that Fort Carson emits 205,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year, similar to a town with 25,000 residents. The system created by Enviance, a company based in California, will eventually be implemented on all Army bases. It is currently being used by corporations and utilities in 45 countries to monitor adherence to environmental and safety regulations, according to Enviance's president Lawrence Goldenhersh. | 2 |
I believe that the Oscars are declining because the type of movies they were created to highlight are slowly disappearing. The ideal Oscar nominee is a high-middlebrow film that aims for real artistry, with famous actors, stunning cinematography, and a memorable soundtrack. These movies are not too difficult for art-house audiences nor are they comic-book blockbusters, but rather films that appeal to a wide audience of serious adults. In the past, Oscar races featured conflicts that engaged every moviegoer, such as "Titanic" versus "L.A. Confidential," "Saving Private Ryan" versus "Shakespeare in Love," and "Braveheart" versus "Sense and Sensibility" versus "Apollo 13." This explains why this year's Academy Awards, with 10 best picture nominees, feel like a last attempt to showcase the type of movies the Oscars desperately need. "West Side Story" is being directed by Steven Spielberg in a modern retelling of a beloved musical. "King Richard" features a powerful performance by Will Smith in a sports movie that is inspiring. "Dune" is an impressive adaptation of a classic science-fiction story. "Don't Look Up" stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence in a thought-provoking film about important issues. "Drive My Car" is a lengthy Japanese film that explores the intricate connection between a widowed actor and his female chauffeur. Perhaps the previous nominee may cater to a more specific audience, but the important thing is that this year's nominees feature well-known actors, renowned directors, and traditional Hollywood genres. Despite all of this star power, the majority of these films did not attract many viewers to theaters. In February, when the nominees were revealed, nine out of the 10 films had earned less than $40 million at the domestic box office. The only outlier was "Dune," which just surpassed $100 million domestically, ranking as the 13th highest-grossing film of 2021. Altogether, the 10 nominees have only made a quarter of the earnings of "Spider-Man: No Way Home" at the domestic box office. Despite efforts to recreate the old magic, the public's interest seems to have waned. The impact of COVID-19 on the film industry, particularly affecting older moviegoers, cannot be overlooked. Without the challenges posed by the delta and omicron waves, movies like "West Side Story" and "King Richard" may have performed better. Additionally, many of the best picture nominees were released both in theaters and on streaming platforms simultaneously. "Don't Look Up" found success on Netflix after a brief theatrical run. This unique crisis and technological changes provide an opportunity to assess our current situation. Certainly, while non-superhero movie box office earnings are expected to rebound in 2022 and next year's best picture contenders will likely see an increase in ticket sales, it is clear that the Oscars are on the decline. This marks a significant moment in the history of Hollywood, signaling the end of traditional movies as the dominant form of entertainment. However, this does not mean that films will disappear completely, as they will continue to be produced and enjoyed as part of the broader content industry. The concept of "The Movies" as a central American art form, a platform for celebrity, and a cultural institution appears to be coming to a close. The culmination of this shift has been a long time in the making, with hints of change seen in the spread of television, the invention of the VCR, the rise of cable TV, and Hollywood's romanticized view of its fading past. Despite nostalgia for the past, television continued to gain power without overshadowing the dominance of movies. While TV in the 1960s and '70s was successful, it was also seen as disposable, unlike movies which held a more esteemed position in culture. The introduction of VHS tapes allowed for a new way to appreciate films, generating additional revenue to support future blockbuster films. Television stars have been present since Milton Berle, and the '80s and '90s marked the beginning of what we now consider as prestigious TV shows. If you desired true glory, genuine fame, or lasting artistic recognition, you had to showcase your work in movie theaters to gauge the reactions of critics and audiences. Success could lead you to become someone like Robert Altman or Bruce Willis, while failure could result in being remembered as a cautionary tale like Shelley Long or David Caruso. The late 1990s marked the transition to a new era of cinematic wonder with the rise of computer-generated effects. Indie cinema helped develop a new group of talented filmmakers. The year 1999 is often considered one of the best years in film history, with acclaimed movies such as "Fight Club," "The Sixth Sense," "The Talented Mr. Ripley," "Election," "Three Kings," and "The Insider" released. This year had so many great films that it could justify a Top 50 list. Interestingly, the viewership for the Oscars increased from the late 1980s onwards, reaching its peak in 1998 when "Titanic" won Best Picture. This was seen as a victory for the film industry as a whole, as it combined classic Hollywood with the era of special effects, drawing audiences to the theaters for an experience that couldn't be replicated at home. For teenagers at that time, going to the movies was a significant part of their coming-of-age experience. I remember feeling frustrated as a teenager when I was turned away from an R-rated action movie (I can't remember if it was "Con Air" or "Executive Decision"), but also feeling a sense of maturity when I was able to see "Eyes Wide Shut" (another great film from 1999) on its opening weekend. The initiation process was not just about transitioning into adulthood, but also about learning a specific common language. Certain movies, such as "Austin Powers" and "The Matrix," were essential for socializing as a college student and understanding the cultural references that connected people. However, this eventually led to movies losing their revered status and becoming just another form of entertainment. A positive outcome of this shift was the rise of high-quality television shows, starting with HBO's "Sopranos," which rivaled movies in terms of acting, writing, and directing. The other changes were somewhat unclear. Globalization expanded the market for Hollywood movies, but the global audience favored simpler storytelling that could be easily understood across different languages and cultures, with less complexity and cultural details. The internet, laptops, and iPhones personalized entertainment and made it more accessible, but also led to smaller screens, individual viewing, and watching in short bursts, which went against the communal experience of cinemas. Special effects allowed for visually stunning scenes and brought previously unfilmable stories to the big screen. However, the focus on effects in blockbuster movies created a fandom culture that catered to specific audiences, but sometimes sacrificed traditional cinema elements for the demands of popular franchises like Star Wars or Marvel. The various changes in Western culture have led to a more widespread influence of teenage preferences and entertainment habits into adulthood. This has caused Hollywood to evolve in two main ways. Firstly, there is a focus on producing superhero movies and other familiar properties aimed at teenagers to maintain success in theaters. Secondly, there is a constant creation of content for home entertainment and streaming platforms, resulting in movies that closely resemble TV series in terms of casting, direction, and promotion. The impact of movies on American culture, which was significant even just 20 years ago, is now difficult to comprehend due to various pressures. The internet has now taken over as the primary platform for adult initiation, replacing traditional movie theaters. With the vast array of entertainment options available and the lack of originality in popular movies, it is nearly impossible for a few blockbuster hits to serve as a common cultural reference point. The idea of a movie star as an iconic figure has also become outdated, with superhero franchises often overshadowing the actors themselves and reducing them to mere representatives of the brand. The types of genres that used to create a strong connection between actor and audience, such as non-superhero action movies, historical epics, broad comedies, and meet-cute romances, have all declined quickly. While televised serials can create a bond between the audience and a specific character, this bond does not transfer as easily to the actor's other roles as the larger-than-life persona of movie stardom once did. Male actors from TV's antihero era are often forever associated with their characters, like Tony Soprano or Walter White, while recent female stars in serials like Jodie Comer or Anya Taylor-Joy have not been able to bring their audiences with them to their film projects. It is important to appreciate what this era has brought us, including Comer and Taylor-Joy's TV work. The abundance of content is remarkable, and serialized TV dramas have storytelling capabilities that even the biggest movies lack. In our most recent week of television watching, my wife and I have been switching between the entertaining basketball drama "Winning Time" and Amanda Seyfried's portrayal of Elizabeth Holmes in "The Dropout". Next week, we plan to watch the long-awaited third season of Donald Glover's "Atlanta". The quality of TV entertainment available now surpasses what was offered on cable 20 years ago. However, these shows are still different from movies due to their smaller cultural impact, the lesser fame of their actors, diminished communal influence, and the fact that stories made for TV screens sacrifice certain artistic elements in advance. For example, the grandeur of the movie experience, including larger-than-life acting and immersive cinematography, music, and sound editing, are not as prominent on smaller screens. Movies like "Dune," "West Side Story," and "Nightmare Alley" offer significantly different experiences in a theater compared to watching at home. In this context, it is appropriate that the Oscars this year have marginalized awards for score, sound, and film editing, as more movies are being made for streaming platforms, which may lead to a decrease in the importance of audiovisual immersion. Additionally, the condensed format of serial television in our current era lacks the power achieved through storytelling in a single installment, where the efforts of an entire team are condensed into a brief cinematic experience. This intensity is what sets great movies apart from long-form television, which often includes unnecessary seasons, mediocre episodes, or guest-star appearances that detract from the overall quality. Shows like "Lost" and "Game of Thrones" have suffered from not having a clear sense of their direction from the start. While a fantastic movie can be its own unique world that viewers can fully immerse themselves in, this does not diminish the artistic benefits of longer works. "The Sopranos" accomplished things in terms of character development and psychology over its duration that a movie could not achieve. However, "The Godfather" is still considered a more flawless piece of art. In a world where multiplatform content is dominant, the small screen holds more influence than the big screen, and superhero blockbusters and TV series are prevalent, fans of perfection may wonder what to seek out. Restoration and preservation are two important things to consider. Restoration does not mean bringing back the landscape of 1998, but rather hoping for a world where traditional big-screen entertainment, beyond just comic-book blockbusters, becomes more successful and appealing to audiences. One possibility for this lies in the changing geopolitical landscape, with China and Russia becoming less friendly towards Western releases. This could lead to a revival of movies with a more specifically American appeal, focusing on earning a decent profit on a smaller budget rather than spending excessively in hopes of a billion-dollar worldwide gross. The current theatrical experience is focused on maximizing revenue from trailers, ads, ticket sales, and concessions, which may make going to the movies less appealing for adults. One solution to this issue is differential pricing, which some theaters have tried. This could lead to a wider variety of movie experiences, with some films offering a simpler, more affordable night out. With many empty seats in theaters, it is worth considering if a more streamlined experience for non-blockbuster films could attract more viewers. However, since there are limits to these hopes, lovers of cinema must also consider the importance of preservation. Similar to supporters of theater, opera, and ballet, they must recognize that certain forms of artistic experiences will not be sustained on their own. They need support and patronage to cultivate an appreciation for the art forms that previous generations took for granted, especially in today's culture that often prioritizes adolescent tastes over adult ones. To support the preservation of cinema, efforts should focus on making it easier for theaters to screen older films that may be overlooked in the streaming industry's focus on new content, and to prevent classic movies from being locked away by corporate interests. Secondly, there is a focus on incorporating exposure to exceptional cinema into a liberal arts education. While the liberal arts are currently facing challenges, integrating 20th-century cinema into the curriculum can serve as a link to traditional art forms that influenced the development of film. By prioritizing the finest works of cinema, academic institutions can offer a more meaningful alternative to the superficial pursuit of relevance prevalent in popular culture studies. A pivotal moment in my own cinematic education occurred during college when I viewed "Blade Runner" and "When We Were Kings" in a dimly lit lecture hall as part of a course on heroism in ancient Greece. In 1998, I was still experiencing the main popular art form of American culture. Nowadays, a student in a similar situation would be encountering an art form that is no longer as dominant. This is also true of many other things we would want that student to experience, from ancient works like the "Iliad" and Aeschylus, to Shakespeare and 19th-century novels. While the decline of movies may not be able to be reversed financially or technologically, there is still cultural life beyond this type of end. It is now our responsibility to determine how rich this cultural life will be. | 2 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.