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In November 2018, the Camp Fire, the most devastating wildfire in California's history, was rapidly spreading through the Sierra Nevada foothills, destroying everything in its path. In just a few hours, the town of 26,000 residents was reduced to rubble, with schools, businesses, and 11,000 homes burned to the ground. Despite initially thinking it was a false alarm, Singer evacuated his home as flames approached, narrowly escaping in time. Paradise was completely destroyed. Eighty-five individuals perished, and over 90% of the population was forced to leave. Two years later, approximately 4,000 inhabitants have come back to the devastated land to start anew and take their chances once more. Singer is one of those who returned, but now he is reconsidering his decision. For years in this area covered with chaparral, it has been a tradition: following the fire, comes the reconstruction. However, as California faces a severe climate crisis with soaring temperatures and devastating wildfires, the rebuilding process is taking on a new form. The state has been dealing with both the largest wildfire season on record and the challenges brought on by the pandemic. By the end of 2020, over 4.2 million acres had been burned by nearly 10,000 fires. Northern California has been particularly hard-hit by megafires, while Southern California, especially Los Angeles, is now the epicentre of the pandemic, leading the nation in both confirmed cases and deaths. Amid a historic housing shortage and low interest rates, California's home prices have reached record highs. In August, the median cost of a single-family home in the state surpassed $700,000, and in September it continued to increase. While the price of new homes is going up, many homeowners are discovering that the cost of rebuilding after a fire is even higher. Home rebuilds are decreasing throughout the state due to a lack of contractors, pressures on the rental market, and a worsening climate crisis. California, still facing an affordable-housing crisis, has seen a decline in new construction permits for the past two years after steadily rebounding for over a decade following the 2008 recession. The number of new home construction permits in California reached 120,000 in 2018, then decreased to 110,000 in 2019. Following a devastating wildfire in Malibu on December 30, 2020, the rebuilding process in the state, which is facing a severe climate crisis, is evolving. The California Industry Research Board, responsible for monitoring construction and permit activity, expects to release its 2020 data in February and estimates that only 103,670 housing units were issued last year. California, the state with the largest population, is facing a severe climate crisis with soaring temperatures and devastating wildfires. The rebuilding process after these disasters is evolving, with more homeowners opting to start fresh rather than rebuild. The issue is complicated by the difficulty of tracking permits for fire-related losses and the widespread impact of wildfires across multiple municipalities. This trend suggests a shift in the way Californians are approaching rebuilding in the face of increasing fires. The lack of contractors in the state has left homeowners waiting for four or even five years to rebuild after disasters like the Camp Fire. Despite expectations for an increase in permits following the fire, the number has not risen. Many insurance companies offer large payouts, but finding a contractor available to build a new home can be a challenge due to the high demand. Some homeowners are choosing to leave instead of waiting. However, in areas where the land is valuable, such as Malibu after the Woolsey Fire in 2018, rebuilds are progressing steadily. The whole city was emptied, and 650 of its expensive homes, including those owned by Miley Cyrus, Gerard Butler and Robin Thicke, were destroyed. However, more than one-third of those homes now have permits to be rebuilt, compared to just over 10% in Paradise. "Rebuilding after a fire is like someone who gets bitten by a shark and still goes back to surf," said Michael Nourmand, president of the Los Angeles real estate brokerage Nourmand & Associates. "But people in LA quickly forget. Most are planning to rebuild." It is easier to rebuild if you have the financial means, as California has strict building codes in place since 2008 that require fire-resistant materials and landscaping. In 2011, California mandated that all single-family homes must have sprinkler systems, which can add over $20,000 to the cost of rebuilding a pre-2008 home. Those who decide to rebuild are forced to enter the rental market, adding strain to an already inflated housing system with high demand. As a result, the state's most vulnerable residents are impacted, leading to a 16% increase in homelessness numbers in 2019, with over 150,000 residents now experiencing homelessness. Due to the impact of COVID-19, it is anticipated that those figures will increase. James Ryan, the president of Time for Homes, an organization committed to eradicating chronic homelessness, explained that when numerous homes are destroyed, individuals are forced to relocate, causing rental prices to rise. This in turn leads to a rise in affordable housing and a decrease in housing insecurity. Governor Gavin Newsom's eviction moratorium, aimed at safeguarding tenants from losing their homes due to pandemic-related difficulties, is set to expire on February 1st. However, some reports indicate that evictions have been increasing during the pandemic, despite the moratorium in place. According to Ryan, there are always individuals who are overlooked and end up facing forced evictions, forcing them to seek alternative housing options. This has resulted in a situation where there is a growing number of people looking for housing, while the supply of homes is decreasing. As a result, there has been a population shift towards California's more rural areas, such as El Dorado County, where sales increased by 28% in 2020 compared to a slight decline in Sacramento. However, the Inland Empire, made up of Riverside and San Bernardino counties, is experiencing rapid growth and has been relatively unaffected by the large wildfires that have plagued other major metropolitan areas in California over the past two decades, such as San Diego, Los Angeles, and the San Francisco Bay Area. The COVID-19 pandemic has further fueled this trend of people moving to more rural areas. The median home prices in Riverside County and San Bernardino County are significantly lower than in Orange County and Los Angeles County. Job opportunities in the Inland Empire are also growing, making it an attractive option for families affected by wildfires looking to relocate. It is challenging to determine the exact reasons for the increase in movement towards areas like the Inland Empire, Joshua Tree, and Palm Springs. The shift may be driven by a combination of factors including affordability and concerns about fire risks. This trend has been observed since 2010, but not everyone has the luxury of moving away from fire-prone areas, especially in a state with a severe housing shortage. Following the Camp Fire, Singer and his wife, Shannon, have been living in an apartment in Chico, 20 miles away, as they deal with the challenges of rebuilding their home such as insurance, zoning, construction, and planning. They have also established a nonprofit called Paradise Stronger, using their fitness coaching background to provide mental health support to residents affected by the disaster. Initially, they were dedicated to participating in Paradise's comprehensive recovery plan to reconstruct the entire city with improvements like more parks, fire-safe landscaping, and better evacuation routes. However, the 2020 fire season introduced new terms like "megafires" and "hot drought," with fire-whipping winds leading to preventative power shut-offs becoming routine. In October, the Singers were forced to evacuate once again due to an approaching fire that had already caused significant damage. Singer, 43, stated that the area where their home would have been was the first to be evacuated this time. He described the scene as filled with smoke and mentioned that he experienced PTSD. His wife expressed her dissatisfaction with the situation and told him that she was unsure about rebuilding and staying in the same place. Singer shared that his wife was reconsidering their location. He mentions that he is willing to remain in the town, but not if it means jeopardizing his marriage. The couple has decided to temporarily halt their plans to rebuild. If they do decide to proceed, they are considering spending $100,000 of their own money for a smaller, more fire-safe home on the same property, with an estimated total cost of $250,000. They were paid $145,000 for the building that was destroyed in a fire, but like many American households, they found out later that their insurance coverage was insufficient. Insurance companies are increasingly refusing to renew policies in high-risk areas, with a significant rise in refusals reported by the California Department of Insurance. Some new developments are now incorporating resilience measures into their construction plans in wildfire-prone regions. One example is Rancho Mission Viejo in Southern California, which is the largest new community in the state and has been in development since 2001. The development plans for Rancho Mission Viejo include preserving 75% of the 23,000 acres of open space. Fire resilience is a fundamental aspect of the construction in the community, with many wildfire prevention tactics in place long before they were required by state and local regulations. The Urban Land Institute recently recognized the community, along with the town of Paradise, as a model for rebuilding after wildfires. Each neighborhood in Rancho Mission Viejo has a 110-foot-wide fuel modification zone that replaces combustible vegetation with fire-resistant plants, and certain plant species are not allowed. Noncombustible construction materials and mandatory fire sprinklers in every home were already in place before California law required them in 2011. The additional cost for fire-safe modifications during construction has decreased significantly. Initially, these modifications added between $4,000 and $10,000 to the cost of each home, but now the cost has dropped to as low as $1,000. Jay Bullock, vice president for planning and entitlement at Rancho Mission Viejo, attributes this decrease to fire-safe methods becoming more common in the market. Mike Balsamo, senior vice president for governmental relations at Rancho Mission Viejo, emphasized the importance of building safely in high fire hazard zones for a sustainable future, stating that there is a specific playbook for this. "We have the ability to establish a community that is as safe from fires as possible." © 2020 New York Times News Service. | 2 |
During weekends, jazz bands performed on street corners, friends met up in the middle of the road, children rode their bikes, and diners sat at bistro tables on the pavement while the distant sound of cars could still be heard. The early days of the coronavirus pandemic initially kept New Yorkers indoors, but eventually led them outside for various activities like exercising, dining, and getting fresh air. This resulted in a natural transformation of the city's streets in all five boroughs. City officials allocated 83 miles of road for cyclists, runners, and pedestrians, permitted nearly 11,000 restaurants to extend onto sidewalks and streets, and allowed retailers to expand their businesses beyond their storefronts. People have embraced this change and are reluctant to go back to the way things were. Mayor Bill de Blasio has praised these initiatives, known as Open Streets, Open Restaurants, and Open Storefronts, as a positive aspect during a challenging time for the city. Once a skeptic, de Blasio now believes that some of the pandemic-era experiments will become permanent fixtures in New York City. The New York Times sought input from individuals who have utilized Open Streets on what they hope to see continue. The Times also consulted urban planner and architect Claire Weisz of WXY Studio to provide realistic and ambitious suggestions based on successful examples elsewhere. Three specific streets that were part of the Open Streets and Open Restaurants programs were highlighted as potential models for the entire city. While the Open Restaurants program has been made permanent, the future of Open Streets remains uncertain, with the mayor expressing a desire to see it continue in some form. The selected streets included Vanderbilt Avenue in Prospect Heights, 34th Avenue in Jackson Heights, Queens, and Avenue B on the Lower East Side. These streets present various possibilities for improvement and transformation, such as creating a European-style boulevard on Vanderbilt Avenue and incorporating a performance stage. The thoughts and opinions of New Yorkers were also considered in the planning process. Monty sported a denim jacket and a bright pink mohawk. Rosen, 40, felt like she had been transported to another continent for a brief moment. Vanderbilt Avenue in Prospect Heights became a bustling central gathering spot until Thanksgiving, with restaurants expanding onto the street and volunteers setting up barricades to block cars. Residents expressed a desire for more benches and tables, as well as improvements to the bike lane to separate faster cyclists from slower ones. Local residents emphasized their desire to have a say in the future of Vanderbilt rather than leaving decisions to City Hall. Suggestions for the avenue's future included converting it into an event space with a stage for performances. The future of Vanderbilt could potentially involve extending and expanding the median into a small park, as well as providing public bathrooms to make the area more welcoming. Medians could serve as loading and unloading zones for deliveries and new bike lanes could be added next to the median, including one for fast bicyclists, commuters, and delivery workers, and another for leisurely riders. Copenhagen, Denmark, follows a similar model with supercycle highways. In Queens, 34th Avenue could be transformed into a pedestrian promenade by expanding the existing median, providing space for amenities like a workout area and gardens. New Yorkers, like Laurie Gold, appreciate the Open Streets portion of 34th Avenue for its pedestrian-friendly environment during the pandemic. Neighbors gather to socialize and children play on the street, with a popular gathering spot being Travers Park. While residents enjoy the residential feel of the avenue, some would like to see more commercial activities like fairs and food trucks. Some residents have suggested having street festivals to bring more choices and opportunities to the neighborhood. The road is 55 feet wide from curb to curb, with enough space to extend the median to the sidewalk on one side and create a one-way road on the other side. This extension could provide a larger area for pedestrians and more greenery. Moving the bike lane next to the sidewalk would make it safer for cyclists, as it would prevent drivers from hitting them with car doors. Travers Park could be a focal point, with public bathrooms, space for vendors, and a workout area. The neighborhood could take inspiration from Tokyo Toilet, which offers architecturally appealing and wheelchair-accessible restrooms. Avenue B in Manhattan could be made more pedestrian-friendly by converting it into a one-way strip near Tompkins Square Park. Residents believe that more greenery, trees, and plants should be added to the sidewalks. Converting Avenue B into a permanent open street could provide more space for schools to use as a playground. The park is surrounded by fences, with paved entryways and benches along the paths. Trees and shrubs are protected by additional fencing within the park. Weisz mentioned that the fences were originally intended to prevent farm animals from entering the park, but over time became a security measure. She proposed removing the fences to create a more open and inviting space with paths winding through greenery. She suggested looking to Barcelona as a model, with car-free streets and one-way avenues. Widening the street could also allow for public bathrooms and increased safety by slowing down traffic. Avenue B would see improvements with the addition of bike lanes and designated areas for deliveries, according to Weisz. He described it as an ideal shared street. | 2 |
This Saturday, Egyptians will be participating in a referendum to vote on constitutional changes that aim to enable free and fair elections. However, these changes have caused division within the reform movement that led to the overthrow of Hosni Mubarak. While some believe that more significant constitutional changes are necessary, others believe that the amendments are sufficient for now. The Muslim Brotherhood, a well-organised Islamist group, supports the amendments, unlike secular groups and prominent reform advocates such as Mohamed ElBaradei and Amr Moussa. The military council, which took power from Mubarak on Feb. 11, is hoping for the amendments to pass so they can continue moving towards parliamentary and presidential elections, ultimately transferring power to an elected government. A high voter turnout is expected for the referendum. Ahmed Saleh, who is currently leading ElBaradei's presidential campaign, stated that the upcoming vote will be a significant moment. He mentioned that there is a strong desire among people to vote and a feeling of change in the air. The military council, which took power from Mubarak on Feb. 11, has called for a high voter turnout for the referendum. The council emphasized the importance of Egyptians participating and voicing their opinions, stating that the goal is to create a suitable environment for future elections. The amendments proposed by the council, including a two-term limit for the presidency, are aimed at limiting the time a leader can serve in office to eight years. The council will have to reconsider its strategy and extend a transitional period if the amendments are rejected, which goes against their goal of keeping it brief. However, the reforms do not meet the demands of reformists who want a complete rewrite of the constitution. Youth groups involved in the protests against Mubarak believe the amendments are an attempt to halt the revolution. There are concerns about the military's tight election timetable not allowing enough time for parties to recover from years of oppression, giving an advantage to the Muslim Brotherhood and Mubarak's supporters. General Ismail Etman of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces stated that amending the constitution is the best, though not the most ideal, solution. In an interview with Al Gomhuria newspaper that was published on Thursday, he mentioned that the approval of the amendments would result in the creation of new laws that would facilitate political life by removing restrictions on political party formation. The debate on how to vote has been widely discussed in various media platforms such as newspapers, television stations, and social networking sites. The "No" camp continued to promote their campaign on Friday with a full-page advertisement in Al Masry Al Youm, a popular Egyptian newspaper. The advertisement listed objections, including concerns about agreeing to a historic decision without sufficient time or information, and featured pictures of actors, politicians, religious figures, and businessmen who are urging voters to reject the amendments. A Muslim Brotherhood leader on the following page expressed a different opinion, stating that supporting the constitutional amendments is a crucial step in fulfilling the demands of the revolution. He added that those who oppose the amendments have not presented a clear alternative. With up to 45 million eligible voters in Egypt, a high voter turnout is expected, especially from those who have experienced violent and rigged elections under Mubarak's rule. One voter, Ahmed Adel, stated that he will definitely vote as he believes his vote will have a significant impact on Saturday. He expressed his support for the amendments in order to help his country move forward and establish a parliament and president as soon as possible. Activist Ziad el-Elemi expressed a different opinion, stating that they are conducting workshops nationwide to educate citizens on the fact that simply making constitutional amendments is not sufficient. | 2 |
Palep's 9-year-old daughter, Aviana Campello-Palep, has a refreshing attitude towards discussing periods, approaching the topic without any self-consciousness. Aviana and her younger sister Anaya, 8, have collaborated with their mother to create Girls With Big Dreams, a line of undergarments for tweens, including reusable period underwear. Their brand is set to launch in February and will be available online. Aviana hopes to remove the stigma surrounding periods and make a positive impact on others' lives. This family's openness about menstruation reflects a larger trend among Gen Z and beyond, who are more open about their periods and are interested in environmentally sustainable period products. The combination of the two ideals may indicate a cultural change in how young people are approaching menstruation. There are now more options available for reusable period products such as absorbent underwear, menstrual cups, cloth pads, panty liners, and applicator-free tampons than ever before, some specifically designed for teens and tweens. Michela Bedard, the executive director of Period Inc., a global nonprofit organization focused on providing access to period supplies and reducing period stigma, stated that this movement is driven by young people. Young individuals who menstruate are experiencing a different way of managing their periods with reusable products throughout their lives. Despite reusable products only making up a small portion of menstruation supplies purchased in the United States, with Americans spending $1.8 billion on pads and $1 billion on tampons annually, far exceeding the sales of all other products combined, the market share for reusable products is expected to increase over the next decade. This growth is largely due to the greater acceptance and availability of menstrual cups in Western countries. The average person who menstruates can go through thousands of tampons in their lifetime, and a recent report from the United Nations Environment Programme revealed that single-use plastic menstrual products can take up to 500 years to decompose. Gen Z, known for their involvement in climate change and sustainability efforts, are educating their parents on more open and eco-friendly ways to manage their monthly cycles. Dr. Cara Natterson, a pediatrician and author, has noticed a shift in attitudes among young people who question the need to hide their menstrual products and are more open about discussing new sustainable options. Her own daughter has introduced her to innovative products she finds on social media platforms like Instagram and #PeriodTok videos. According to Natterson, teenagers prefer to discuss people's experiences rather than relying on five-star Amazon reviews. Natterson recently reconsidered using cloth pads after her daughter suggested it, despite a previous failed attempt. Lara Freidenfelds, a historian, notes that the current trend of environmental sustainability and menstruation is not new, as homemade menstrual rags were common until the mass-marketing of Kotex in 1921. In the 1970s, discussions about sustainability in menstrual care began with experiments using cloth pads and sponges. Young idealistic individuals were dissatisfied with the lack of practical products available. Convenience has historically taken precedence over sustainability. Today, advancements in menstrual technology benefit parents of Gen Zers, with modern cloth pads and absorbent period underwear being more practical options. New menstruators often seek advice and products from their parents, who can now offer more eco-friendly alternatives to disposable pads and tampons, potentially reducing the 15 billion disposable products that end up in American landfills each year. Nadya Okamoto, former executive director of Period Inc. and co-founder of August, a sustainable menstrual products brand, expressed excitement about the future world shaped by progressive Gen Zers becoming parents in 20 years. Despite cultural shifts and technological advancements, there are obstacles to the widespread use of reusable or recyclable products. Anaya Balaji, a 13-year-old, highlighted the convenience of disposable pads when starting menstruation, noting their prevalence in school bathrooms. Anaya also serves as an online community leader for the Inner Cycle, connecting with peers through social media to educate and raise awareness about sustainable menstrual products. She said that there are products available that are suitable for your body and are beneficial for both you and the environment. However, some young people cannot afford reusable products, particularly in communities where period poverty is a concern. Despite the fact that investing in a $25 pair of underwear or a $60 cup could ultimately save money, many people do not have that extra money every month. Bedard, who works with economically disadvantaged individuals, highlighted that reusable and recyclable products are also subject to a "tampon tax" in many states, which is considered discriminatory and activists are working to repeal it nationally. In 2021, Louisiana, Maine, and Vermont eliminated the tax on menstrual products. Despite efforts to normalize periods, the cultural stigma surrounding menstruation persists, influenced by patriarchal taboos around virginity, purity, and cleanliness. Corporate messaging often promotes discreetness and cleanliness, reinforcing negative stereotypes about periods. Menstrual activist Chella Quint believes that the disposable menstrual product industry has played a role in perpetuating these taboos. Menstrual health is a public health issue that affects people of all genders, according to Natterson. To address the stigma surrounding menstruation, it is important for everyone, including those who do not menstruate, to feel comfortable discussing periods, according to Natterson. She has educated her 16-year-old son on how to support classmates who may need assistance with menstrual hygiene products, emphasizing the importance of respecting others' bodies. She believes that everyone should be involved in promoting this dialogue. | 2 |
Between 1990 and 2014, the amount of land devoted to growing wine grapes in Paso Robles increased nearly fivefold to 37,408 acres, as winemakers recognized the area's ideal conditions for producing flavorful red wines. Wines from Paso Robles have gained international recognition, rivaling the fame of Napa and Sonoma. However, California's recent drought has severely impacted the region, leading to lower grape yields and depleting the aquifer that serves as the primary water source for vineyards and residents in the area. As a result, many wells have run dry in Paso Robles. Some individuals, including large wineries and growers, have been able to afford drilling deeper wells in Paso Robles. This has caused tensions and raised concerns about the sustainability of the wine industry in the area. Cam Berlogar, who resides in the community of Creston, expressed his worry about the depletion of water resources, stating that "All of our water is being turned purple and shipped out of here in green glass." Unlike other states, California's regulations allow property owners to drill wells on their land without much restriction. Berlogar likened the situation to a competition for water, saying "It's a matter of who has the longest straw at the bottom of the bucket." The water level in his own well has dropped significantly over the past few years. Richard Sauret strolls through his Paso Robles vineyard, where he mentions that he uses minimal water for irrigation. This was stated in a Reuters article dated April 20, 2015. In August 2013, due to the water crisis, San Luis Obispo County supervisors implemented a temporary ban on new vineyards and other water-dependent projects. However, this two-year ban, set to expire soon, did not affect projects already underway, leading to continued expansion of grape acreage. Sauret, known for his water conservation practices in his Paso Robles vineyards, primarily relies on aquifer water for irrigation but is concerned about the depletion of this resource. Sauret expressed his frustration with the high demand for water, attributing it to vineyards and other factors. He noted that farmers will have to adapt to farming with less water due to the ongoing drought. In response to the water crisis, Governor Jerry Brown of California signed a set of bills last year that mandate groundwater-dependent areas to form local water sustainability agencies by 2017. These agencies will have several years to create and implement water management plans to address the issue. Some Paso Robles residents are concerned about the potential consequences of waiting too long to address aquifer depletion. A report for San Luis Obispo County projected that, even without any additional growth, the water drawn from the basin could exceed the amount going in by 1.8 billion gallons annually between 2012 and 2040. Hilary Graves, a fourth-generation farmer and winemaker, fears that if the issue is not managed properly within the next decade, it may become irreversible. She hopes to avoid following her family's history of being forced to migrate back to Oklahoma and Arkansas during the Dust Bowl. A water crisis in the region has led to disagreement among residents on how to address it. County supervisors approved the creation of a new water district with an elected nine-member board, but some fear that newcomers with money will control the board and burden local landowners with costly infrastructure projects. Susan Harvey, president of North County Watch, described the proposed district as "we pay, they pump." The people living in the area are especially worried about new arrivals who have political connections and a lot of money, such as Harvard University and the Resnick family. Harvard has invested over $60 million in buying land in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, while the Resnicks, known for FIJI Water and the Wonderful brand, bought Justin Vineyards & Winery in 2010 and later a ranch that was previously dry-farmed. The company is now planting grapes that require less water and plans to eventually switch to dry farming. Fifth-generation farmer Cindy Steinbeck, from Steinbeck Vineyards & Winery, is part of a group called Protect Our Water Rights (POWR) that is concerned about the new water agency in the region. Her organization is encouraging land-owners to participate in a quiet title action in order to protect their water rights, and prefers to have the courts involved in any water management plan for the basin. Steinbeck, a member of the group, stated that they are battling against larger corporations and their aim is to prevent small family farmers from being marginalized in Paso Robles. According to Jay Famiglietti, a senior water scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, this region will serve as a significant case study for implementing new regional oversight in other groundwater basins under high stress. The Paso Robles Agricultural Alliance for Groundwater Solutions (PRAAGS) has been instrumental in driving this initiative, with representatives from J Lohr Vineyards & Wines and individuals with ties to Harvard's property interests on its board. Additional backers of the new agency are Justin Vineyards and County Supervisor Frank Mecham, who approved its creation. Mecham acknowledges the community's worries about the agency but also recognizes the importance of water management. He shares a personal connection to the issue as his great, great grandfather lost his cattle ranch due to a drought. Mecham emphasizes the necessity of water management by stating, "You will be managed one way or another. You’ve got to pick your poison." Richard Sauret strolls through his vineyard in Paso Robles, California on April 20, 2015, explaining how he uses minimal water for irrigation. This demonstration of his irrigation system was captured by Reuters. | 2 |
Biden has selected Tom Vilsack, who previously served as secretary of agriculture under President Obama, to lead the department once again. Vilsack, a former governor of Iowa, is the seventh member of Biden's Cabinet to be chosen. If Fudge is confirmed by the Senate, she would join other diverse picks like Gen. Lloyd Austin and Xavier Becerra in fulfilling Biden's pledge for a diverse administration. However, Biden faces pressure from various groups with differing opinions on what it means to have a Cabinet that represents America. The selection process for key positions is a complex puzzle for Biden and his team, as they search for qualified candidates who align with the president-elect and help create a diverse administration that contrasts with Trump's. Rep. James Clyburn and other allies of Fudge have pushed for her to lead the Agriculture Department to focus on hunger issues in urban areas. Biden ultimately chose Vilsack, a white man from a rural farming state, instead of Fudge, a Black woman, for a position at HUD that is traditionally held by a Black secretary. This decision has the potential to disappoint those who supported Fudge, including members of the Congressional Black Caucus. Some civil rights activists are urging Biden to prioritize civil rights and nominate a Black attorney general, as he promised to address criminal justice, police reform, and mass incarceration during his campaign. Civil rights leader Al Sharpton mentioned in an interview before meeting with Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris that Biden had flown to Houston to discuss specific commitments before Sharpton delivered the eulogy for George Floyd. Sharpton emphasized the importance of keeping promises. Biden is currently considering candidates such as Sen. Doug Jones, Sally Yates, and Judge Merrick Garland for the position of leading the Justice Department. Jeh Johnson, a Black individual who served as Obama's secretary of homeland security, has removed himself from consideration for attorney general. During an interview with CNN last week, Biden acknowledged that advocacy groups are pushing for their desired changes, which is their responsibility. He defended his Cabinet picks as the most diverse in American history. However, advocates are not taking any chances. A meeting between the president-elect, vice president-elect, Sharpton, and other civil rights leaders lasted nearly two hours and allowed them to present their arguments. Sharpton emphasized the importance of appointing an attorney general with a civil rights background in response to the previous administration. He also expressed a preference for a Black attorney general. In addition, Derrick Johnson of the NAACP urged Biden to establish a civil rights envoy reporting directly to the president. Johnson cited John Kerry's appointment as climate envoy as an example of a direct reporting relationship. "We believe that a national adviser on racial justice should hold a similar position." During the Democratic primary, Biden benefited from Sharpton's decision to remain neutral instead of endorsing Bernie Sanders. In the general election, Harris was supported by Sharpton's advocacy for a Black woman on the ticket rather than endorsing Stacey Abrams. This has given Sharpton some influence with the Biden-Harris transition team as they select administration members. Additionally, over 1,000 high-profile Black women signed a letter to Biden expressing concern about the lack of Black women considered for top positions in his administration and urged him to improve in this area. The women in the letter believe that Black women in leadership roles impacting the nation should be recognized and considered for Cabinet positions. Fudge, who has experience in Congress and had campaigned for agriculture secretary, expressed her willingness to serve in any capacity to help the president. She had previously considered challenging Speaker Pelosi but ultimately decided to support her after being assured that Black women would have a voice in decision-making. Now, Fudge will be leaving Congress to lead the housing agency. Her leaving will contribute to another challenge: how to keep the Democratic Party's small majority in the House, which has decreased significantly since the November elections. Biden choosing Rep. Cedric Richmond, an African American Democrat from Louisiana, as a senior adviser in the White House, already meant the party would need to protect that seat. Biden selecting Fudge for his Cabinet means Democrats will have to win another special election to fill her seat. | 2 |
Diners at New York's Del Posto have the option to share a $130 entree featuring wild branzino fish, roasted fennel, and peperonata concentrato, as well as a $3,600 bottle of Dom Perignon. However, they are not allowed to share a bottle of Perrier or San Pellegrino water. The Italian restaurant, supported by celebrities Mario Batali and Joseph Bastianich, is among those choosing to avoid bottled water, along with San Francisco and New York state. Bastianich, who is gradually eliminating bottled water from his restaurant group, including locations in Los Angeles, emphasized the importance of using local water due to environmental concerns related to transportation and packaging. Beverage companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Nestle, and SABMiller are increasingly aware of the negative consumer perceptions regarding the environmental impact of bottled water as environmental concerns impact sales. With water becoming scarcer, these companies are taking steps to address the issue and avoid being seen as wasteful. According to Steve Dixon of Arnhold & S. Bleichroeder, water scarcity is a growing concern due to climate change and population growth, leading to the belief that "water is the new oil." While Dixon is confident in the overall availability of water, he acknowledges the importance of addressing consumer perceptions to maintain a positive image. Around 33% of the global population currently resides in regions experiencing water scarcity, as stated by Brooke Barton from Ceres, an organization focused on sustainability. Barton predicts that this number will increase to approximately 66% by 2025. While water is currently inexpensive, there is a concern about rising costs in the future, according to Andy Wales, head of sustainable development at SABMiller, a company that used 94.5 billion liters of water in its most recent fiscal year. This equates to 4.5 liters of water being used for every liter of beer produced. Water and energy expenses only accounted for 5 percent of the total costs, with brewing ingredients, bottling materials, and labor overshadowing them. The brewer noted that water costs at a Bogota, Colombia plant are increasing by about 12 percent annually due to soil erosion and deforestation caused by cattle grazing upstream. New water pricing strategies are being implemented, such as the European Union's Water Framework Directive which will impose taxes on water starting in 2010 to promote more sustainable usage. Agriculture accounts for 70 percent of global water consumption, while industry uses 20 percent. However, any industry that relies on agriculture, whether it be meat or clothing production, faces challenges beyond its own water usage. Companies like SABMiller, along with Coke and Pepsi, are now analyzing their "water footprints." SABMiller discovered that the water used throughout its supply chain, including for growing barley and hops, can be 34 times greater than its own direct water consumption. With 139 breweries worldwide, the company's total water usage varies from 40 liters per liter of beer in Central Europe to 155 liters in South Africa. Based on the lower estimate, SABMiller's overall "water footprint" was approximately 8.4 trillion liters last year, which is more than double the amount used by Iceland in 2004. Wales stated that in the long run, they view it as a risk. Multinational beverage companies are taking steps to address criticism by setting water conservation goals, constructing community wells and more efficient factories, collaborating with locals on sustainable farming, water harvesting, and reforestation, and seeking new technologies to decrease water usage while increasing production. Greg Koch, Coke's managing director of global water stewardship, emphasized the importance of these actions for businesses closely tied to water resources. Non-alcoholic beverage makers use a small percentage of groundwater in the US, but their significance as visible water users makes them key players in the water resource debate, according to Kim Jeffery, CEO of Nestle Waters North America. Jeffery compared criticism of his industry to a gnat bothering an elephant, as his contract to build a bottling plant in McCloud, California faces opposition from residents and environmental groups. Nestle has started a 3-year study of the area's resources, but Jeffery believes the project may never come to fruition due to changing economics and hesitation on both sides. Tom Pirko, president of Bevmark LLC, emphasized the importance of companies aligning with consumer values on such issues, citing Coca-Cola's experience in Kerala, India where their bottling plant was closed amid accusations of depleting the water table. Coca-Cola stated that its plant was not the cause of the shortages, however, there was still widespread outcry globally. Students in Britain and North America called for boycotts, and Smith College in Massachusetts ended a long-standing partnership with the company by not allowing them to bid for their soft drink contract. According to Koch, the loss of the social license to operate was significant. Environmental and community organizations continue to oppose Coca-Cola's presence in other Indian villages. | 2 |
According to a recent survey, the majority of Indians believe that the biggest issue in the country is the lack of job opportunities, a sentiment that has remained consistent throughout Prime Minister Narendra Modi's time in office. The survey also revealed that concerns about terrorism and Pakistan were prominent even before the recent crisis in Indian Kashmir. Despite these concerns, most Indians are satisfied with the direction of their country and the economic outlook for future generations. Additionally, the survey found that over half of those polled were satisfied with the functioning of democracy in India. Satisfaction with Indian democracy has dropped by 25 percentage points since 2017, with 79 percent approving back then. Men tend to be more supportive of Indian democracy than women, although one in five women did not give an opinion. The Pew Survey conducted from May 23 to July 23, 2018, had 2,521 respondents, the final year of Modi's term before the election. Modi is the frontrunner for the upcoming election on April 11, but his lead is narrowing and polls suggest his party may not win a clear majority. Recent tensions with Pakistan have shifted focus from economic issues to national security, benefiting Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party. Critics have alleged that the BJP is instilling fear among India's Muslim community by advancing a Hindu-centric agenda and singling them out for the killing of cows, which are considered sacred. The party has been questioned about its loyalty to India, but it denies any prejudice and asserts that it is against favoring any particular community. Muslims account for approximately 14 percent of India's 1.3 billion population. | 2 |
Trump criticized Iran's corrupt dictatorship and praised North Korea during his annual address to the United Nations. He also emphasized his rejection of globalism and commitment to protecting American interests. The majority of his speech targeted Iran, accusing the country of nuclear ambitions and supporting militant groups in the Middle East. Rouhani later criticized Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran. He expressed that he did not want to take a photo with Trump and implied that the US president's reluctance to participate in global institutions was a flaw in his character. He stated that going against multilateralism showed a lack of intelligence and understanding of the world's complexities. Trump's speech was met with mostly silence from world leaders who were not supportive of his isolationist views that have caused tensions with traditional allies. Despite being delivered calmly, his speech strongly emphasized his "America First" policies. He has upset the balance of power in the world by pulling the United States out of the nuclear agreement and the Paris climate agreement, and has warned NATO countries that they will face consequences for not contributing more to their collective defense. Trump has stated that America will not give up its sovereignty to a global authority, and that the country is governed by its own people. He has spoken out against globalism and expressed support for patriotism. In addition to criticizing Iran and China, Trump did not mention Russia's involvement in Syria or its suspected interference in American elections. Rouhani expressed a strong stance in his speech to the global assembly, emphasizing Iran's desire for peace, no sanctions, no threats, and no bullying, but rather following the law and fulfilling obligations. Macron, on the other hand, offered a different perspective, warning against the dangers of survival of the fittest, protectionism, and isolationism leading to increased tensions. He defended multilateralism and collective action, stating that nationalism would result in failure and a return to global wars if countries did not uphold basic principles. Macron adamantly rejected the erosion of multilateralism and the unraveling of history. Macron pointed out that our children are observing the example of Iran to illustrate how this unilateralism push could result in conflicts. Trump, known for boasting about his economic achievements during his rallies, used similar rhetoric during his speech to world leaders and diplomats, claiming to have accomplished more than most previous US presidents. This statement surprised the crowd, leading to some murmuring and laughter, which caught the president off guard. Despite the reaction, Trump brushed it off, saying, "I didn’t expect that reaction, but that's OK." Trump tried to create a division between Iran's leaders and its people following a recent attack that killed 25 individuals. He stated that he would not engage with the Iranians until they changed their behavior, while also indicating that economic pressure on Iran would continue. Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, criticized the 2015 accord and issued a warning to the leaders in Tehran, stating that there would be consequences if they did not cooperate. In May, Republican President Trump decided to pull the United States out of the agreement that aimed to limit Iran's nuclear program in return for lifted sanctions. The deal involved France, Britain, Germany, Russia, China, and the European Union along with Iran. Tensions between Washington and Tehran have been growing since May, despite the agreement being negotiated during the term of Democratic President Barack Obama. Trump announced that additional sanctions will be implemented starting on November 5th, and efforts are being made to reduce the import of Iranian crude oil by other countries. He mentioned that the United States would assist in creating a regional strategic partnership between Gulf nations, Jordan, and Egypt in order to counter Iran. Trump compared the relationship between the US and Iran to the improved relations with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, whom he met in Singapore in June as part of an ongoing effort to persuade Pyongyang to denuclearize. During his previous address to the UN, Trump had insulted Kim as a "rocket man" obsessed with nuclear weapons. However, on Tuesday, Trump commended Kim for stopping nuclear and missile tests, releasing American prisoners, and returning some remains of US soldiers from the Korean War. The two leaders are working on planning a second summit. Trump has stated that sanctions on North Korea will continue for the time being. He has strongly advised OPEC members to cease increasing oil prices and take responsibility for their own military defense. Furthermore, he has warned that US aid will be restricted to nations that are supportive of the United States. Anwar Gargash, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, countered Trump's claims by asserting that oil prices are determined solely by market forces such as supply and demand, and cannot be influenced by individual decisions. Gargash's country is a member of OPEC. The price of crude oil surged to its highest level in four years on Tuesday, driven by the upcoming US sanctions on Iranian oil exports and the hesitancy of OPEC and Russia to increase production to make up for the potential decrease in global supply. | 2 |
Reuters has ranked the director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development, Dr. Huq, at 208th place on their list. Dr. Huq, the only Bangladeshi scientist to receive this recognition on Earth Day, is being acknowledged for his and IUB’s efforts to advance Bangladesh's role in global climate change knowledge. The Reuters Hot List highlights the top 1,000 most influential climate scientists based on their research papers, citations, and references. Dr. Huq is renowned for his expertise in climate change adaptation in vulnerable developing countries and has contributed significantly to the IPCC's assessment reports. He also provides guidance to the least developed countries in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Recently, under his leadership, ICCCAD at IUB secured a six-year project from Norway Higher Education under NORAD focusing on "Co-creating knowledge for local adaptation to climate change in the LDCs" with four other partners - the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Pokhara University in Nepal, the University of Eduardo Mondlane of Mozambique, and the Makarere University of Uganda. The project proposal was submitted through the LDC Universities' Consortium on Climate Change (LUCCC), which is now officially recognized by the 47 LDC governments. IUB played a key role as a founding member of LUCCC. | 2 |
Noah's Ark, which was originally built to save humanity and the animal kingdom from a great flood, is currently being reconstructed in model form on Mount Ararat as a message to mankind to take action to prevent global warming. Environmental activists are leading the effort in the green foothills of the snow-covered mountain in eastern Turkey, where the Bible states the ark landed after the flood. Volunteers are working diligently to finish the wooden vessel by the end of May, coinciding with a summit of world leaders in Germany where climate change will be a key topic. Wolfgang Sadik, campaign leader for Greenpeace, explained that the project is primarily aimed at politicians and world leaders responsible for the climate crisis, in order to serve as a warning and a beacon of hope. The goal is to create a memorial on Mount Ararat that will raise awareness and urgency to act before it is too late. The IPCC of the United Nations has cautioned that carbon dioxide emissions need to be reduced by at least 50% by 2050 in order to prevent harmful climate changes, as stated by the European Union. One major issue related to climate change is the rising sea levels. The UN climate panel predicts that sea levels will increase by 18-59 cms in this century, compared to 17 cms in the previous century. However, there are significant disagreements on how to address this threat. Germany is pushing for G8 countries to endorse the IPCC's target at the upcoming meeting and to promote carbon trading as a means to discourage greenhouse gas emissions. US chief climate negotiator Harlan Watson recently stated that the United States will not accept emissions targets or cap-and-trade schemes as a way to address climate change. Instead, the country will focus on funding clean energy technologies. In the story of Noah's Ark from the Bible, God punishes humanity for their sins by flooding the Earth. Noah, a righteous man, is chosen to save his family and pairs of all animals by building an ark. The biblical ark was much larger than the common depiction, measuring about 140 meters long. The model, intended to become a mountain hut, is a tight fit for climbers. Last week, volunteers faced logistical challenges working at high altitude to haul timber for the boat by horse up the mountain. They are racing against the clock for a May 31 ceremony where doves will be released from the boat and a plea will be made to world leaders to address global warming. Despite doubts from a boatbuilding master, German carpenter Rainer Brumshagen believed it could work. The atmosphere at the gathering is positive and energized as people from different countries come together to work as one. Despite the political tensions, the scene at Mount Ararat is peaceful, with shepherds tending to their sheep and activists from Greenpeace working in their brightly colored tents. However, one of the carpenters working on the model Ark has doubts about its ability to float. | 2 |
He introduced himself as a Syrian refugee in broken English, claiming to have traveled half the continent by foot and lost his documents. He was photographed and fingerprinted by officers. In the following year, he would receive shelter, an asylum hearing, and monthly benefits. He provided the name David Benjamin. He actually held the rank of lieutenant in the German army, but disguised himself by darkening his face and hands with makeup and applying shoe polish to his beard. Instead of walking across Europe, he only walked 10 minutes from his childhood home in Offenbach. According to prosecutors, this was part of a far-right scheme to carry out assassinations that could be blamed on his refugee alter ego, sparking civil unrest to destabilize Germany. The officer, known as Franco A in court documents to protect his privacy, denies these allegations. He claims that he was attempting to reveal weaknesses in the asylum process. However, his complex deception, which spanned 16 months, was exposed when authorities apprehended him while he was trying to retrieve a concealed loaded firearm in a restroom at Vienna airport. Aydan Ozoguz, a legislator who was in charge of refugees and integration at the time, described it as a "shocking moment." She emphasized the need for the asylum system to detect fraudulent individuals but also questioned how someone like Franco A could be serving as a soldier in Germany. The arrest of Franco A in April 2017 left Germany in disbelief. Ever since then, there has been little focus on his case, but that is expected to change when he goes to trial early next year. Germany will also be on trial alongside him, not just for the oversight that allowed a German officer to pose as a refugee for an extended period without knowing Arabic, but also for its historical indifference towards combating far-right extremism. A gathering of Uniter, a private network that arranges tactical defense training sessions, in Paderborn, Germany, on March 8, 2020. The New York Times reported on two groups in Germany led by former military and police members, one of which stockpiled weapons and maintained enemy lists while the other focused on Germany's elite force, the KSK. Following the discovery of explosives and SS memorabilia on a sergeant major's property, an entire KSK unit was disbanded. The article details interviews with members of these groups, including Franco A., whose transformation from a promising officer to a suspected terrorist reflects the complexities of modern Germany. One country was created after being defeated in World War II and raised by a liberal agreement that discouraged nationalism and taught citizens to express regret. This country, Germany, is now evolving into a more uncertain nation as its wartime past fades and a previously inactive far right movement becomes active in response to a more diverse society. The postwar agreement in Germany is now at risk. When I initially met Franco A over a year ago at a restaurant in Berlin, he brought documents with him, including notes and excerpts from his police file. At that time, he appeared self-assured. A Frankfurt court dismissed his terrorism case due to insufficient evidence, but the Supreme Court reinstated it months later following an appeal by prosecutors. Franco A contacted me on my cellphone, visibly shaken. If found guilty, he could be sentenced to a maximum of 10 years in prison. Even though he was awaiting trial, he agreed to participate in a series of exclusive recorded interviews and welcomed me and two New York Times audio producers to his childhood home, where he currently resides, to talk about his life, beliefs, and various aspects of his case. I visited multiple times over the following year, most recently the week before Christmas. At times, he would show us videos of himself in disguise as a refugee. On one occasion, he took us down a noisy stairway, through a metal door resembling a safe, and into his "prepper" cellar, where he had hidden ammunition and a copy of Hitler's "Mein Kampf" before they were seized by the authorities. Franco A denies any involvement in a terrorist plot. He claimed to have pretended to be a refugee in order to expose Chancellor Angela Merkel's policy of allowing over 1 million refugees into Germany, which he saw as a danger to national security and identity. He believed that the system was too strained to properly vet incoming individuals. He maintained that he was acting in line with the Constitution, rather than against it. He asserted that he had no intention of carrying out any violent acts, and questioned why he would not have done so if that had been his goal. The prosecutors did not comment officially, but their claims are detailed in the Supreme Court ruling. They cite evidence such as a concealed gun at the Vienna airport, an illegal assault rifle, a visit to a potential target's parking garage, and numerous voice memos and diaries kept by Franco A. over the years. I have reviewed these transcripts from police reports and evidence files, in which he expresses admiration for Hitler, doubts Germany's repentance for the Holocaust, believes in global Jewish conspiracies, blames immigration for damaging Germany's racial purity, praises Russian President Vladimir Putin as a model, and calls for the destruction of the state. Military uniforms found in Franco A's "prepper" basement in Offenbach, Germany on July 9, 2020, reflect his private beliefs that he claims cannot be legally punished. While some of his views are extreme and align with those of neo-Nazis and far-right groups, his concerns about immigration and national identity are becoming more common in Germany, Europe, and the United States. In the generation that came of age after September 11, 2001, during the resulting wars and a global economic crisis, a distrust of government, far-right messaging, and conspiracy theories have not only infiltrated pockets of the security services but have also become more mainstream. Thomas Haldenwang, the president of the domestic intelligence agency, expressed concern in an interview that far-right extremist messages have moved into the middle of society. These ideas are even present in Parliament, where the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is the leading opposition party. Haldenwang's agency is considering placing the entire AfD party under observation as early as January due to the perceived danger they pose, despite the party claiming to be defenders of the Constitution. The struggle for Germany's democracy is evident in the ongoing debate. In my interviews with Franco A., senior defense officials have shifted from dismissing my questions about extremist networks to expressing serious concern. In March 2019, a defense ministry official initially stated that only four far-right extremists had been identified in the military, which was surprising. Yes, there were four extremist networks identified. He mentioned that they couldn't see any networks. Up until this year, the German authorities had ignored the issue. Despite detailing his extreme views in a master's thesis, Franco A.'s superiors continued to promote him. He joined extremist networks that included many soldiers and police officers. He publicly spoke at a far-right event that caught the attention of security services, but it wasn't until a janitor at the Vienna airport discovered a gun hidden in a maintenance shaft that his plans were thwarted. The gun was a black, compact 7.65-caliber Unique 17, made by a French gunmaker between 1928 and 1944. The pistol became a popular choice among German officers in France during the Nazi occupation. In order to uncover who had concealed the weapon, the police devised an electronic trap. On February 3, 2017, they successfully apprehended Franco A. as he attempted to access the hidden pistol with the end of a hair gel tube. A group of police officers quickly surrounded the restroom door, armed and prepared. Two officers in plain clothes entered and questioned Franco A. about his actions. Franco A. remembered saying, "Yes, I concealed a weapon here," and stated that he had returned to retrieve it and hand it over to the police. He mentioned that someone started laughing when he made this statement. The account he gave to the Austrian police that evening during questioning was so unbelievable that he was reluctant to repeat it when we met, but eventually decided to do so. A picture of Franco A. was taken during a ceremony at the Saint-Cyr military academy in France, as well as at his home in Offenbach, Germany on July 9, 2020. This information was reported by The New York Times.
In Vienna during ball season, Franco A. claimed he had been at the annual Officer's Ball two weeks earlier. He was barhopping with his girlfriend and fellow soldiers when he found a gun while using the bathroom in a bush. He put the gun in his coat pocket, but then remembered it when going through security at the airport. He concealed it in order to not miss his flight, but ultimately chose to go back and give it to the police. Franco A. was photographed at a ceremony at the Saint-Cyr military academy in France, and at his residence in Offenbach, Germany on July 9, 2020. He expressed feeling embarrassed about the situation and mentioned that he knows nobody believes him. Franco A. was released on that same evening. However, the officers confiscated his phone and a USB stick discovered in his backpack. They also obtained his fingerprints and sent them to German authorities for confirmation. When the results came back weeks later, the officers were surprised to discover that Franco had two identities. His identification indicated that he was a German officer stationed with the Franco-German brigade in Illkirch, near Strasbourg. However, the fingerprints found on the gun belonged to a migrant who was registered near Munich, causing concern among investigators. They questioned whether Franco A. had hidden the gun with the intent to carry out an attack in the future. He was apprehended on the evening of the annual fraternity ball, organized by Austria's far-right Freedom Party, where militant counterdemonstrators were common. One hypothesis was that Franco A. had intended to shoot someone that night while posing as a leftist. When the German authorities took charge of the investigation, they discovered two documents on his UBS stick: the "Mujahedeen Explosives Handbook" and "Total Resistance," a manual for urban guerrilla warfare from the Cold War era. Through his cellphone, they uncovered a vast network of far-right Telegram chat groups consisting of soldiers, police officers, and others preparing for what they called Day X, the collapse of the social order. Additionally, they found numerous audio memos in which Franco A. had documented his thoughts over several years. On April 26, 2017, during a military training exercise in a Bavarian forest, Franco A. was once again arrested, this time with ten federal police officers escorting him away. Ninety additional individuals were carrying out raids at the same time in Germany, Austria, and France. During these raids, the police uncovered over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, as well as numerous handwritten notes and a diary. As they delved into the contents of these writings, they learned about a man who had held radical beliefs since his teenage years. In interviews with Franco A., he shared details about his childhood and family background, which closely align with the history of Germany. Echoes of History Franco A purchased his first German flag when he was 12 or 13 years old, a small tabletop banner he bought during a family vacation in Bavaria. In most countries, this act would be insignificant, but in postwar Germany, where national pride was discouraged due to the country's Nazi history, it was seen as a rebellious gesture. Franco A explained that Germany has always held significance to him, as he showed us pictures of his childhood bedroom with the flag prominently displayed. Growing up in his working-class neighborhood, he did not see many German flags because the area was home to guest workers from southern Europe and Turkey who played a crucial role in rebuilding postwar Germany and reshaping its society. Franco A's mother, who lives above him, remembered that when she was in school in the 1960s, there were only a few children with migrant backgrounds in her class. By the time Franco A was in school, children with two German parents were actually in the minority. His own father, an Italian guest worker, left the family when he was very young, and Franco A refers to him simply as his "producer" rather than his father. In a January 2016 audio memo, Franco A described the guest worker program as a deliberate effort to weaken German ethnicity. He believed he was a product of this racist ideology and shared that his grandfather was born in 1919, the year the Treaty of Versailles was signed. This treaty, which marked Germany's defeat in World War I, fueled the "stab in the back" myth that Germany had actually won the war but was betrayed by leftists and Jews in power. This propaganda contributed to anti-democratic movements in the military that stockpiled weapons, planned coups, and ultimately supported the rise of Nazism, similar to the accusations Franco A faces today. He mentioned that his grandparents frequently looked after him, providing him with soup after school and sharing stories with him about the war. His grandfather would entertain him with tales of his experiences in the Hitler youth. The police took a copy of "Mein Kampf" that had belonged to him. He also mentioned that his grandmother, who was 20 at the time, fled with her sister from the Red Army's advance in present-day Poland. She recounted to the boy an incident where their wooden cart had broken down, leading them to take a break in a field near Dresden. That evening, she recounted how the sisters witnessed the destruction of the city by bombs, resulting in the death of up to 25,000 civilians and becoming a symbol of outrage for the extreme right. Years later, Franco A created a recording of a fictional conversation discussing the "bomb terror in Dresden" and questioning whether Jews should expect Germans to feel perpetual guilt. His educators encouraged him to question authority and think independently. Raised during the 1968 student movement, they aimed to pass on the liberal values that emerged from it - including a skepticism of nationalism and a sense of remorse for the war. None of the teachers I interviewed noticed any early signs of extremism in him, but rather remembered his challenging and curious nature affectionately. They were unaware that during that period he had become immersed in a vast realm of online conspiracy theories that would impact him for many years. These beliefs started to form in his teenage diary, with Franco A describing the entries as a way to explore ideas rather than as evidence of a firmly established ideology or any specific intentions. Within these musings were thoughts on how he could potentially alter the trajectory of German history, such as by becoming a soldier and rising to a position of influence within the military to eventually become the leader of the German armed forces. In 2008, during the financial crisis triggered by Lehman Brothers' collapse, Franco A joined the military at the age of 19. He was selected as one of the few German officer cadets to attend the esteemed Saint-Cyr military academy in France, established by Napoleon in 1802. During his five years abroad, he studied at Sciences Po in Paris, King's College London, Sandhurst, and the University of Cambridge. In 2013, he wrote a master's thesis titled "Political Change and Strategy of Subversion," where he argued that immigration and the influence of subversive minorities led to the downfall of civilizations. He warned that Europe and the West were at risk if they did not defend themselves. He also stated that ethnically diverse societies were unstable and allowing migration was a form of "genocide." He believed that the Old Testament was the basis for Jewish global dominance, calling it potentially the biggest conspiracy in history. The French military academy commander was shocked by these views and reported them to Franco A's German superiors. He mentioned that if a French participant had expressed similar views, they would have been removed from the course. The German military hired historian Jörg Echternkamp to evaluate the thesis, which he deemed as a "radical nationalist, racist appeal" combined with an element of insecurity due to globalization, making it socially dangerous. Despite this assessment, Franco A was not removed from service or reported to Germany's military counterintelligence agency. Instead, he was summoned to a branch office near Paris where an officer from the military's internal disciplinary unit informed him that his thesis was not in line with Germany's values. Franco A explained that he felt pressured to create something exceptional as the second best student in his class, leading him to become consumed in his own thoughts. After a lengthy interview, a senior officer concluded that Franco A had been overwhelmed by his own intellectual abilities. He was reprimanded and required to submit a new thesis. Upon his return to Germany in 2014, he resumed his duties as a model soldier. In November 2015, he received praise for his enthusiasm and effectiveness in handling ammunition. Franco A prominently displays "The Magic Eye" on his bookshelf, a book containing colorful images that transform into different ones when stared at for a long time. Like the book, Franco A presents himself as a peace-loving critical thinker who believes he has been unfairly targeted in a political environment that punishes dissent. However, records and interviews with investigators and those familiar with his case paint a different picture. Upon returning from France, Franco A. began associating with soldiers who shared his beliefs. They were actually easy to locate. A colleague and friend connected him with a national online chat group consisting of many soldiers and police officers worried about immigration. The group was established by a KSK officer named Hannibal, who also led an organization called Uniter, providing paramilitary training. Both the network and Uniter are now being monitored by the domestic intelligence agency. Franco A was present at a minimum of two Uniter meetings, and badges from the group were discovered in his possessions. According to police interviews, he was considered to be intelligent at the KSK base. A witness statement from a fellow soldier indicated that several soldiers were familiar with him. Many of the members in the chat were "preppers" who were expecting the potential collapse of Germany's social system. According to prosecutors, Franco A started hoarding food rations and supplies in a "prepper" cellar, and also began acquiring guns and ammunition illegally. This occurred during a time when Russia had invaded Ukraine, there was an increase in Islamist terrorism in Europe, and German Chancellor Merkel had welcomed hundreds of thousands of mostly Muslim asylum-seekers from conflict zones in the Middle East. Franco A remembered feeling the genuine threat of war or civil unrest within Germany. Prosecutors claim that it was at this moment he started considering resorting to violence. He believed that the government's fight against terrorism was actually a fight against him and his beliefs, as stated in the indictment. He also believed that in order to reveal the truth, it needed to be presented in a convincing way. To do so, he felt a "trigger event" was essential, and thus began looking for potential triggers or targets, according to prosecutors. He claims that it did not happen. However, at the conclusion of his Christmas break in 2015, just 10 days before starting his first assignment in the Franco-German brigade near Strasbourg, he pretended to be a refugee. While waiting for his initial interview as David Benjamin at the police station, Franco A, his refugee persona, considered whether Damascus or Aleppo would be a more believable birthplace as he studied a world map on the wall. As time passed, he fabricated an elaborate family history. After completing his military training in France, he became fluent in French. During interviews, he identified himself as a Syrian Christian with French heritage. He mentioned attending a French high school and working as a fruit farmer in Tel al-Hassel, a small village near Aleppo. Despite his efforts to be well-prepared, he found it unnecessary in the end. German authorities did not question his story, as they were overwhelmed at the time. Two days after going to the police station, he applied for asylum and was taken to temporary group shelters. He was eventually given a small residence in Baustarring, a Bavarian hamlet located 250 miles west of his army base. Franco A filmed numerous videos of the shelters on his cellphone camera, showing his doubt about the level of neediness of the asylum-seekers. He observed that many of the Syrians had fled from cities destroyed by conflict, and despite their difficult circumstances, they appeared more like tourists than refugees. He explained that he intentionally chose a low-quality phone so as not to draw attention with a high-quality one, but ended up with the worst option. He criticized the system for being overly generous and forgiving, as he continued to receive his monthly stipend despite turning down job offers. He only visited the shelter occasionally and missed appointments. Franco A believed that Merkel's government had contributed to a humanitarian crisis by participating in Middle Eastern wars. It felt as though he was witnessing a real-life example of the case study from his former mentor's discredited thesis. He expressed regret that millions of people had migrated from a region that he believed could have been prevented from destabilizing. During his asylum hearing, the Moroccan interpreter raised concerns about his Arabic proficiency but hesitated to question him due to his Jewish-sounding name, fearing she might be perceived as anti-Semitic as a Muslim. Franco A was eventually given "subsidiary protection," which permits asylum-seekers without identity papers to remain and work in Germany. Despite his refugee status, he became more well-known in far-right circles. Franco A claimed he participated in debates at bars and was asked to speak at events. He stated that on Dec 15, 2016, he spoke at the "Prussian Evening," a gathering organized by a publisher associated with Holocaust denial, held at Hotel Regent in Munich. His subject on that particular evening was "German conservatives - a minority in their own country." Over the course of the year, his voice messages became more urgent. In one message from January 2016, just three weeks after becoming a refugee, he mentioned that those who spoke out against the authorities were often killed. He urged action, not murder, in another message. He also expressed a belief that he would be murdered, but vowed to strike first. According to prosecutors, Franco A, who had been leading a double life for seven months, visited Berlin in the summer of 2016 and may have been a potential target. He went to a side street near the Jewish quarter to take four photos of car license plates in a private underground parking garage, according to reports. Investigators later found the images on his cellphone. The building where this occurred was home to the offices of the Amadeu Antonio Foundation, an organization led by Anetta Kahane, a well-known Jewish activist. Being the daughter of Holocaust survivors, Kahane has faced far-right hatred for many years. Prosecutors believe, based on confiscated notes, that Kahane, now 66, was one of several prominent figures targeted by Franco A. for their pro-refugee stances. Other individuals mentioned in the notes were Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, who was serving as justice minister at the time, and Claudia Roth, a Green lawmaker who held the position of Parliament's vice president. Kahane's name was mentioned multiple times in the notes, including at the end of a list of seemingly ordinary items and reminders. Franco A, who showed me the notes, claimed that it was just a regular to-do list. On one page, he detailed Kahane's background, age, and work address. He created a detailed map of her parking garage location and wrote a note stating they could not act as they wanted to. Prior to his trip to Berlin and afterwards, Franco purchased items for a handgun and a mounting rail for a telescopic sight. He was seen at a shooting range testing out these accessories with an assault rifle. Additionally, he traveled to Paris to meet with the head of a pro-Putin Russian think tank connected to France's far right and allegedly bought the French handgun found in Vienna. Prosecutors believe there is sufficient evidence to suggest that Franco A was planning a murder, although he denies all accusations. He denied that anything the prosecutors have said shows he intended to harm Kahane. During a long interview, he mentioned having pictures on his phone but said that doesn't prove he was present. Despite initially refusing to discuss the matter due to his upcoming trial, he eventually talked about it hypothetically. He claimed that if he had gone, it would have been for a conversation and that he would have discovered Kahane wasn't there after ringing the bell. He may have then visited the parking garage with the thought of gathering information about the car. He mentioned the possibility of finding the person he was looking for by some stroke of luck. He denied any plans to kill Kahane and argued that even if he had visited the garage, it would only be considered preparation for an assassination and not terrorism. He questioned how this could be a threat to the state, especially since Kahane is not a politician. I went to Kahane to get her opinion on the matter. When we first met, she had just received another threatening email from a neo-Nazi group, a common occurrence for her. The message detailed violent acts they planned to commit against her, including cutting a swastika into her face and leaving her to die. What frightened her even more than the threats was the lack of awareness and action from German authorities. She remembered the day the police informed her that they had apprehended a neo-Nazi soldier who intended to murder her. The conversation was about Franco A. and his two associates, with someone jokingly asking if all three of them had been caught. The speaker noted that people often underestimate the number of Nazis involved. The discussion turned to the German Constitution, specifically Article 20.4, which permits resistance in order to protect democracy, inspired by Hitler's 1933 actions. Far-right extremists, who criticize Merkel's government as anti-constitutional, favor the Constitution which holds a prominent position in Franco A's library. He frequently references it and expressed displeasure when I visited him before Christmas with transcripts of his voice recordings. I questioned him about certain statements he made, such as his belief that Hitler was "above everything." He explained that he meant it ironically and played a recording for me to prove it. The conversation had a casual and playful tone, with both voices laughing. However, the true intention behind the statement was not immediately clear. I also inquired about a different recording from January 2016. Franco A. stated that anyone who helps destroy the state is doing something positive, claiming that laws hold no value. It was unclear how he could make such a statement while also professing to defend the Constitution. After a lengthy silence, Franco A. reviewed his own words. He flipped through the notes of his attorney, but he was unable to find a solution. This material is copyright © 2020 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
President of Iceland, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, arrived in Dhaka on Friday to participate in a symposium focused on "Climate Change and Food Security in South Asia." He landed at Zia International Airport at 8:15pm and was welcomed by President Iajuddin Ahmed. President Grímsson is scheduled to attend the closing ceremony of the symposium at Hotel Sonargaon on Saturday. The six-day international symposium, organized jointly by the University of Dhaka and the Ohio State University of the USA, in collaboration with World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and Pacific (ESCAP), began on Monday. The President of Iceland was scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Tuesday, but his trip was postponed. | 2 |
The discovery was astounding in its extent. Reporters from even small countries like Guinea-Bissau were asked to make deals with Chinese journalists. China was circulating their propaganda newspaper, China Daily, not only in English but also in Serbian. A journalist from the Philippines believed that over half of the articles on a Philippine news service were from the Chinese state agency Xinhua. A media organization in Kenya received funding from Chinese investors, and subsequently terminated a writer who covered China's oppression of the Uyghur minority. Journalists in Peru received harsh criticism from Chinese government officials on social media. This appeared to be part of a larger strategy to challenge the dominance of global news outlets like the BBC and CNN, and to promote Chinese influence in media worldwide. The International Federation of Journalists will release a report on Wednesday shedding light on China's plans for this new power, based on interviews conducted by journalist Louisa Lim in 54 countries. The interviews conducted by Lim, a former NPR bureau chief in Beijing and current senior lecturer at the University of Melbourne, revealed that China has utilized its global media infrastructure to spread positive narratives about the country and counter disinformation during the pandemic. This strategy, outlined in a report co-written by Julia Bergin and Johan Lidberg of Monash University in Australia, highlights a shift in global power dynamics rather than a secretive plot. China's media tactics, while not a secret, have been compared to those used by other powerful countries throughout history. The report also noted that China's media efforts have been closely tied to its diplomatic activities during the pandemic, including the distribution of protective equipment and vaccines to countries worldwide. Italian reporters were pressured to air President Xi Jinping's Christmas speech and were given an Italian translation. The Chinese embassy in Tunisia provided hand sanitiser and masks to the journalists' union, and expensive television equipment and free, pro-China content to the state broadcaster. In Serbia, a pro-government tabloid displayed a billboard with an image of Xi Jinping and the message "Thank you, brother Xi." The media and vaccine campaigns are connected to China's "Belt and Road" global investment initiative, which comes with conditions such as debt and support in key UN votes. China faces challenges due to its increasing authoritarianism, treatment of the Uyghurs, and crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong, which have negatively impacted global perceptions of the country even before the start of the pandemic in Wuhan. Some governments are starting to restrict the operations of Chinese state media in their countries, such as Britain revoking the license of the main Chinese state broadcaster. China's diplomatic efforts are focused on countries that may not have as much cultural or financial power as European nations, but still have a vote at the UN. Despite appearing to be spontaneous and originating from local embassies, China's actions are making a global impact on the media landscape. According to Lim and two other New York Times reporters, journalists from around the world had varying attitudes towards Chinese government pressure, from concern to confidence in navigating a complex media environment. Zuliana Lainez, the secretary-general of the National Association of Journalists of Peru, expressed concern about the close relationship between the Peruvian state media and the Chinese embassy. She noted that the state news agency and state-controlled newspaper often act as mouthpieces for China, and raised alarm about the embassy's efforts to modernize newsrooms' technology. Lainez emphasized the need to scrutinize these relationships, as they are not free from potential influence. On the other hand, Stefano Polli, the deputy director of the Italian news service ANSA, viewed China's use of media as a way to increase its influence in global politics. He defended his service's contract with Xinhua as a normal commercial arrangement, despite criticism from international journalists. China has also restricted foreign journalists within its borders, leading international media to rely more on official sources and denying visas to American journalists, such as those from the New York Times. Luca Rigoni, a well-known anchor for an Italian TV channel owned by Mediaset, stated that his news organization does not have its own correspondent in China but has a formal agreement with Chinese state media for coverage. However, this partnership ended after Rigoni reported on the theory that the virus originated from a Chinese lab. Despite this, Rigoni, whose company is owned by former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, believes that China's control over media is not unique, as many countries have government-controlled TV and radio programs. According to Anthony Bellanger, the general secretary of the International Federation of Journalists, China is becoming increasingly influential in the information war, but it is important to push back against similar pressures from the US, Russia, and other governments worldwide. However, recent reports suggest that China is currently the most dedicated to this campaign, as they are spending significant amounts of money to spread their messages globally. In comparison, the US, which once led covert and overt influence efforts during the Cold War, has seen a decline in its official channels. While the CIA's influence operations have evolved over time, President Trump has attempted to use outlets like Voice of America and Radio Liberty as more overt propaganda tools, a move that has faced resistance from Democrats and journalists. The American government's inability to reach a consensus on how to utilize its own media outlets has resulted in companies like Netflix and Disney, which have more power and funding, taking the lead. Many journalists worldwide are doubtful about the effectiveness of Chinese government propaganda, a sentiment I shared when I discarded a week's worth of unread China Daily editions. Propaganda that may be successful within China is struggling to compete in the competitive global market for audience attention. Eric Oduor, the secretary-general of the Kenya Union of Journalists, noted that China's efforts to expand its content in Kenyan media have not yet had a significant impact. Some argue that even though journalists may see certain information as unprofessional or obvious propaganda, it still has an impact. Erin Baggott Carter, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Southern California, discovered in her research that American news organizations that allowed their journalists to go on official trips to China shifted their coverage from military competition to economic cooperation. In discussions with journalists from various countries, I noticed that they did not mention the United States when talking about Chinese influence. Unlike the US, where there is often a focus on a global struggle between two powerful nations and different systems of government, journalists in countries like Indonesia, Peru, and Kenya described a more unilateral effort by China to increase its influence and promote its narrative. Lim mentioned that Americans tend to be self-centered and believe that everything revolves around the US. Many Americans and those in the Western world frequently overlook events in non-English languages and assume that Western values are universal. | 2 |
The Tigrayans, who have been in conflict with the government for the past year, have teamed up with another rebel group as they move towards the capital, Addis Ababa. Foreign officials observing the situation noted that multiple Ethiopian army units appear to have either collapsed or retreated. The declaration of a state of emergency reflects the rapidly changing dynamics of a growing conflict that poses a threat to Ethiopia, the second most populous country in Africa. This development also signifies a further decline in the fortunes of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate whose global standing has been tarnished by a war marked by reports of human rights abuses, mass killings, and starvation. A year ago, on November 4, Abiy initiated a military operation in the northern Tigray region in an attempt to defeat the regional ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front, his most challenging political adversary. However, despite initially promising a quick and nonviolent operation, Abiy found himself embroiled in a difficult military situation. The Ethiopian army faced a significant setback in June as they were compelled to retreat from Tigray, resulting in the capture of several thousand soldiers. Currently, the conflict is escalating towards Abiy, with Tigrayan rebels seizing control of Dessie and Kombolcha, located just 160 miles northeast of the capital. According to a United Nations official, Tigrayan forces were observed advancing further south from Kombolcha on Tuesday. During the state of emergency, Abiy has extensive authority to apprehend and hold critics, implement curfews, and limit the media. Any individual above the age of 18 may be summoned to participate in the conflict, according to Justice Minister Gedion Timothewos. "Those in possession of weapons will be required to surrender them to the authorities," he stated. The government has declared that the state of emergency will be in effect for six months. Prior to this announcement, the city administration in Addis Ababa had urged residents to utilize their weapons to protect their communities. It was stated that searches were being carried out from house to house in an effort to find Tigrayan supporters. These announcements contributed to a growing unease in the city, as tensions rose due to reports of Tigrayan military progress. A taxi driver named Dereje, who was too afraid to share his full name in the capital's tense atmosphere, expressed his intention to join the conflict. He stated that he would not stay at home and face the enemy, but would fight for his children and his nation. However, a teacher who chose not to reveal his identity mentioned that he no longer had confidence in the Ethiopian government. "He expressed concern that we were misled about the defeat of the TPLF," referring to the Tigray People's Liberation Front. "I am deeply worried about the upcoming events. May God assist us." President Joe Biden, who has threatened to impose sanctions on Ethiopia unless it engages in peace talks, announced on Tuesday that he would revoke Ethiopia's trade privileges, including duty-free access to the US, due to "serious violations of internationally recognized human rights." In a separate briefing, Jeffrey Feltman, the Biden administration's envoy to the Horn of Africa, warned that the escalating conflict could have dire consequences for Ethiopia's unity and its relationship with the United States. Ethiopian soldiers who were defeated are being paraded through Mekelle after the Tigray Defence Forces captured the regional capital on June 25, 2021. The New York Times reported that Billene Seyoum, a spokesperson for Abiy, did not respond to a request for comment. Ethiopian soldiers who were defeated are being paraded through Mekelle following the fall of the regional capital to the Tigray Defence Forces on June 25, 2021. The decision to revoke trade privileges by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration has been criticized for potentially reversing economic progress in the country and causing harm to women and children. Ethiopia has expressed its commitment to holding those responsible for serious human rights abuses accountable. The escalating conflict in Ethiopia has raised concerns in the region about potential spillover into neighboring countries like Kenya and the displacement of refugees. Prime Minister Abiy, once praised by the West for winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, has faced growing criticism for the humanitarian crisis in Tigray caused by the blockade preventing essential supplies from reaching the region where millions are in urgent need of assistance. Following the threat of sanctions from the United States in September, Abiy's government expelled seven senior UN officials, including a humanitarian aid coordinator in Tigray, accusing the West of neocolonial bias. The Ethiopian military then launched an offensive against Tigrayan forces, which escalated to include airstrikes on Mekelle, the capital of Tigray. Recently, Abiy has attributed his losses to unidentified foreign fighters supporting the Tigrayans, claiming that individuals of non-Ethiopian descent are involved in the conflict. In Addis Ababa, security forces have begun targeting ethnic Tigrayans, raising concerns about potential ethnically motivated reprisals in the capital as the rebels advance. International attempts to encourage both parties to participate in negotiations have been unsuccessful. Abiy has continued military operations despite evidence showing his army is struggling. The Tigrayans claim they are fighting to end a siege that is causing suffering and starvation in their region. Western pressure on Abiy has been minimal, according to Gen Tsadkan Gebretensae, the rebels' chief strategist, who believes more action is necessary. Human rights organizations have accused Tigrayan fighters of misconduct, including the killing of Eritrean refugees, although not to the extent of Ethiopian troops. The Ethiopian government has accused Tigrayan fighters of killing residents in Kombolcha recently, without presenting any evidence. The fighters have been advancing southward into the Amhara region since July, in a prolonged battle that has been largely hidden from view due to internet blackouts and media restrictions. A significant development occurred when Dessie and Kombolcha were captured over the weekend, both strategically important towns on a key highway running from north to south. This highway has become the central point of a war that could shape the future of Ethiopia. The Tigrayans have joined forces with the Oromo Liberation Army, a smaller rebel group advocating for the rights of the Oromo, the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia. After years of fighting in rural areas, the OLA now seems to be making its way into urban centers in Ethiopia. Odaa Tarbii, a spokesperson for the OLA, announced on Tuesday that they had taken control of a town located 120 miles north of Addis Ababa and anticipated moving south with the Tigrayans in the next two or three days. Throughout much of the conflict, Abiy received strong backing from Eritrea, whose troops had entered Tigray early in the war in late 2020 and were accused of committing numerous atrocities against civilians. However, in recent weeks, Eritrea has been noticeably absent from the ongoing fighting for reasons that remain unclear, according to Tigrayan and Western officials. Getachew Reda, a spokesperson for the Tigray People's Liberation Front, stated that the Ethiopian military was becoming disorganized as it retreated south, leaving behind armed ethnic militias. Reda claimed that the military's command and control structure had collapsed, a narrative that was corroborated by two Western officials who requested anonymity due to diplomatic sensitivities. If the Tigrayans keep advancing towards the south, Abiy is expected to be under significant pressure from both his political allies and in the military field, according to officials. © 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Images circulating on social media depict cars being carried away by floodwaters, buildings and businesses inundated with mud, and roads blocked by boulders from mudslides. Merida Governor Ramon Guevara confirmed that 11 people lost their lives in Tovar and two children perished in Antonio Pinto Salinas. Guevara expressed his sorrow over the situation in a video posted on Twitter, explaining that power outages occurred due to water reaching transformers. The affected area is an important agricultural region that supplies food to other regions of the country. | 2 |
The increase in Russian troops near the Ukraine border, which is a crucial route for Russian gas to reach the West, has raised concerns about potential gas shortages. The low levels of gas coming from Russia, Europe's primary source of gas imports, have contributed to recent price hikes. Henning Gloystein, a director at Eurasia Group, warned of possible supply shortages that could harm economic growth and lead to public unrest, with the worst-case scenario involving blackouts. Gloystein suggested that governments may need to reduce gas usage in industries to ensure households have enough gas for heating. Gas prices on the TTF trading hub in the Netherlands reached record highs of around $60 per million British thermal units on reports of redirection of Russian gas flows towards the East. European gas prices have increased twofold this month and are around 15 times higher than gas prices in the United States. Gloystein suggested that this sudden change may be due to opportunistic trading rather than malicious intent from Moscow. However, the natural gas market in Europe is highly volatile. The ongoing tensions between Russia and the West, particularly regarding Ukraine, make it unlikely that the Nord Stream 2 pipeline will open soon. Karen Donfried, assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, stated that the U.S. views Nord Stream 2 as a Russian project that threatens the energy and national security of the Euro-Atlantic community. The U.S. is collaborating with the new German government to enhance Europe's energy security. Energy companies are redirecting ships carrying liquefied natural gas from Asia to Europe due to the high prices, but this may not be enough to replace Russian gas or significantly alleviate the shortage. Laura Page, an analyst at Kpler, a research firm, mentioned that the market is aware of the increase in LNG supply, but this has not affected sentiment. As gas is crucial for electricity generation, power prices are rising in Europe. For example, in Britain, stable power was trading at around 340 pounds (about $450) per megawatt-hour on the Epex Spot exchange. This is three times higher than the average electricity price throughout the year. The elevated gas prices will eventually result in higher energy costs for households in Britain and other nations. Martin Young, an analyst at Investec, a securities firm, predicted in a recent communication to customers that British consumers may face a significant increase in their energy bills, potentially exceeding 50%, due to upcoming adjustments. The recent closure of three French nuclear plants for inspections has also contributed to heightened activity in the power market. Mark Devine, a trader at Sembcorp, an energy company, described the high prices as the new standard for the winter season. | 2 |
Daschle was surprised by the reversal of protocol when Dole insisted on coming to his office instead of vice versa. Despite Daschle feeling humbled, Dole made a witty remark about being able to decide when the meeting was over. This anecdote exemplifies Dole's straightforward and humorous approach, reflecting his upbringing in Kansas and his no-nonsense attitude in Washington since 1961. During the course of the next 35 years, spanning his time in the House, Senate, and unsuccessful presidential bids, he thrived in a Washington environment that suited his skills as a negotiator. While it may be cliché to look back fondly on a time in Washington when politicians from different parties clashed during the day but socialized at night, the reality is that there was still plenty of partisanship during Dole's tenure. However, it is undeniable that the atmosphere was different, and the evidence supports this: Dole, both as a senator and as the Republican leader, worked across party lines to pass several bipartisan laws, including those related to Social Security, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and welfare reform. One of his proudest achievements was collaborating with George McGovern, a liberal Democrat, to update the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as food stamps. After leaving the Senate, they continued to collaborate on nutrition issues. Senator Patrick J Leahy remembered the strong bond between George J Mitchell Jr and Dole, emphasizing their trust and effective communication. Leahy highlighted the unique relationship they had, with dedicated phone lines on their desks for instant communication. This level of cooperation and trust is rare in today's political climate. The button proved to be useful in November of 1994 when the Republicans regained the majority. Rather than seeking reelection, Mitchell informed Dole that he would be visiting his office to offer congratulations. Dole, however, insisted on coming to Mitchell's office himself, a gesture that was seen as kind and considerate by Mitchell and his team. According to presidential historian Robert Dallek, Dole excelled at working with politicians from both parties, recognizing the importance of bipartisanship in a democracy. Despite his conservative ideology and assertive nature, Dole was skilled at building relationships across party lines. Newt Gingrich, the former Republican speaker of the House known for his role in increasing partisan conflict in Washington, stated that he collaborated with Dole on tax cuts and opposing President Clinton's health care plan. In a recent interview, Gingrich compared Dole to current Republican leader Mitch McConnell, noting their tactical skills and ability to block or pass legislation. Despite their successful collaboration, Dole did not approve of Gingrich's confrontational approach. When Gingrich and House Republicans refused to pass federal spending bills, leading to a government shutdown in 1995, Dole spoke on the Senate floor expressing his frustration. Dole believed it was time to put an end to the situation, which he found to be absurd. In Washington, Dole and his wife Elizabeth were viewed as a powerful couple representing the city's institutions. Dole symbolized World War II and the Greatest Generation, embodying dignity and honor from a previous era. He was instrumental in the creation of the World War II Memorial on the National Mall and frequently greeted veterans there. Dallek, the historian, described him as a symbol of American identity, coming from the heartland and representing shared values. Dole left the Senate in 1996 after over 25 years of service to run for president amidst a changing political landscape in Washington, with Gingrich and Clinton dominating the scene. Clinton's affair with Monica Lewinsky further heightened partisan tensions. However, despite Dole being the Senate's longest-serving Republican leader at the time, when he went to the chamber to announce his departure, the traditional customs of the Capitol remained unchanged. Leahy recalled that on the day Dole announced his departure, nearly every Democratic senator was present on the floor. Despite Dole's intention to run against Bill Clinton, after he finished his speech, all senators, regardless of party affiliation, stood and applauded him. | 2 |
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reassured Ukraine that the possibility of joining NATO is still open, even though the country's new leadership no longer sees alliance membership as a priority. However, she emphasized that the US supports Ukraine's closer ties with Moscow and believes that Ukraine should not have to choose between Russia and the West. Clinton also encouraged President Viktor Yanukovich to continue on a democratic path and expressed concern about reports of media freedom violations, urging the Ukrainian government to protect these essential freedoms. She supported Ukraine's efforts to secure a new International Monetary Fund program worth up to $19 billion and urged the country to improve its investment climate through economic reforms, anti-corruption measures, and upholding the rule of law. Clinton refrained from openly criticizing pro-Russian actions by newly-elected Yanukovich, aligning with the Obama administration's strategy of improving relations with Moscow. Despite reducing ties with NATO, Yanukovich has strengthened Ukraine's ties with Moscow through increased trade relations and extending the Russian navy's presence in a Ukrainian Black Sea port. Clinton emphasized that Ukraine has the right to choose its own alliances, including with NATO, but ultimately it is up to Ukraine to decide on its security interests. Yanukovich has abandoned the goal of NATO membership, which pleased Moscow, and stated that Ukraine will not join any military alliances. However, he mentioned that Kiev will continue to work with NATO on defense reform and peace-keeping. Clinton commended Ukraine's efforts to balance relationships with the US, EU, and Russia, calling it a sensible approach. She also praised Yanukovich's pragmatic policy that aims to maintain good relations with both Russia and the West, as well as Ukraine's efforts to stabilize its economy with assistance from global financial institutions. Clinton also applauded Yanukovich's election in February as a significant step towards strengthening Ukraine's democracy. She later encountered his main competitor, former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, who is now in opposition and may have a contrasting opinion. Tymoshenko, who is potentially facing prosecution for supposed wrongdoings during her time in office, challenged Yanukovich's election but subsequently withdrew a legal effort to prevent his inauguration. The only issue where Clinton almost criticized Yanukovich was in relation to media freedoms and democratic rights. Recently, US Ambassador to Kiev John Tefft voiced worry about allegations of intimidation of journalists since Yanukovich assumed power. She stated that the rights of freedom of speech, press, petitioning governments, assembling, and participating in politics are not secondary considerations but fundamental rights of every individual. Clinton mentioned discussing these issues with Yanukovich and reminded that he had promised to uphold democracy, enforce the rule of law, and respect human rights. She emphasized that words alone are not enough and that concrete actions are needed to back up these statements. Clinton is embarking on a regional tour of five countries and will make a stop in Krakow, Poland, for a meeting of the Community of Democracies, an organization that advocates for democratic principles. Additionally, she will be visiting Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia during her tour. | 2 |
The government has launched a program to support around 50,000 small and marginal farmers in increasing maize cultivation. Agriculture minister Matia Chowdhury made the announcement of the assistance, which includes distributing seeds and fertilizers worth Tk 65 million for free, during a press conference at the ministry's conference room on Wednesday. The initiative will provide seeds and fertilisers to farmers to cultivate maize on 16,500 acres of land in 62 upazilas across 11 districts. The program will begin in the current winter season and each farmer will receive 3 kilograms of hybrid maize seeds and 50 kgs of fertilisers, including 25kgs of diamonium phosphate (DAP) and muriate of potash (MoP), as incentives for each bigha [0.33 acre] of land used for maize cultivation, as stated by the minister. The minister stated that the programme aims to boost maize production by 31,000 tonnes, resulting in a market value of at least Tk 62 crore. The initiative will be carried out in several districts including Nilphamari, Kurigram, Rangpur, Gaibandha, Lalmonirhat, Pirojpur, Barisal, Barguna, Patuakhali, Bhola, and Jhalokhati. The minister explained that the goal of the programme is to encourage farmers to cultivate maize due to its high demand and lower cultivation costs compared to crops like rice and wheat. She noted that wheat production in the northern region has declined due to climate changes, making maize cultivation more appealing to farmers due to its demand for both human and poultry consumption. The nation produces approximately 1.55 million tonnes of maize every year, but it also requires importing an additional 422,000 tonnes annually. | 2 |
In 2020, amidst the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, the death of George Floyd, and the social justice movement against police violence and racism, the FBI observed a rise in hate crimes directed at African Americans. The FBI reported that out of 8,052 hate crime incidents, 64.9% were motivated by race, ethnicity, or ancestry bias, with Black Americans being the majority of victims. The number of reported hate crimes against African Americans in 2020 increased to 2,871 from 1,972 in 2019, contributing to a 9.1% overall rise in hate crimes. In the five years leading up to 2019, African Americans were involved in approximately half of all cases involving bias based on race, ethnicity, or ancestry, as per FBI data. Experts who monitor this data warn that the federal numbers may not be complete, and some of the increase in cases could be due to higher awareness and a greater willingness to report such incidents. Nevertheless, they believe that the focus on social justice may have also contributed to an increase in violence against Black Americans. Brian Levin, director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, stated that the events of 2020, particularly the protests following the killing of George Floyd, have shifted the course of prejudice towards African Americans. While the national hate crime statistics for 2021 have not been published yet, experts in hate crimes indicate that attacks on Black Americans and their institutions have persisted. This year, around one-third of historically Black colleges and universities in the country received bomb threats, in addition to several houses of worship and other faith-based and academic organizations, according to the FBI. In February, three white Georgia men were found guilty of federal hate crimes for fatally chasing and killing Ahmaud Arbery because of his race, sparking renewed attention on racially motivated violence. The trial was notable for its honest examination of racism. The FBI issues an annual report on hate crimes, but the federal tracking system does not mandate police agencies to provide data, leading to significant underreporting. This lack of accurate data paints an unclear picture of the extent of hate crimes nationwide, but the report still offers insight into general trends. The Justice Department has recently made efforts to encourage victims to report bias incidents and has prioritized prosecuting these crimes. The FBI's report from last year, which was based on data collected in 2020 from over 15,000 law enforcement agencies, revealed a significant increase in hate crimes, particularly targeting Black and Asian Americans. The FBI defines a hate crime as a biased-motivated crime against a person or property, which can range from bomb threats and vandalism to physical violence and murder. Federal data shows that over the past decade, hate crimes against Black Americans, who make up 12.1% of the population, have been disproportionately higher compared to those reported against any other group, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. The data indicates that there were 20,084 reported instances of anti-Black crimes in the past decade. During that time period, the second largest category of crimes, anti-Jewish incidents, totaled 7,688 reports. Despite Jews making up only 2.4% of the US adult population, according to Pew Research Center. The perpetrator of the Buffalo attack, an 18-year-old white man with a semi-automatic rifle and white supremacist beliefs developed during the pandemic, targeted a supermarket in a predominantly Black neighborhood, resulting in the deaths of 10 people and injuries to three others, most of whom were African American. In a manifesto posted online, the suspect expressed his hatred by writing a racist slur on his weapon and mentioning replacement theory, a far-right concept that fears white people will be replaced by people of color and immigrants. The Justice Department is investigating the mass shooting as a possible hate crime, which is similar to other racially motivated violence stemming from white supremacy, like the Charleston church massacre, the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, and the El Paso Walmart attack where the shooter complained about Hispanic immigrants. Researchers studying hate crimes against African Americans note that it is a mix of old and new forms of prejudice. It involves a persistent fear of demographic changes and the idea of "replacement" that is circulating in certain corners of the internet and often fueled by racist political discourse. According to Jeannine Bell, a professor at the Indiana University Maurer School of Law and an expert on hate crimes, this concept has long been a concern for white supremacists and has become more pronounced during difficult times. Bell also links the recent increase in anti-Black hate crimes to a backlash against the protests that followed the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, which stirred up anger towards African Americans. She mentioned there was a significant amount of support and anger, noting that the news coverage of Black victimization angered white supremacists. Bell explained that attributing the rise in hate crimes to a specific source is difficult, but major events like the protests in the summer of 2020 serve as a useful reference point. Bell also suggested that there has likely been a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes. "What transpired? There was an occurrence, a pandemic, and a surge in anti-Asian hate crimes linked to the pandemic began to occur." Hate crimes targeting African Americans are challenging to accurately quantify, according to Bell, due to the absence of dedicated groups monitoring such crimes. A coalition of national civil rights and social justice organizations urged President Joe Biden to organize a summit this week to address hate crimes and right-wing extremism. Reverend Al Sharpton stated on Twitter that he had discussed the necessity for a summit with two members of Biden's Cabinet: "There must be a coordinated national response to the increasing crimes immediately." © 2022 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Starting with the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, who quickly implemented restrictions on abortions worldwide, the year 2017 served as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in the fight for women's rights. Despite this, the year also saw a surge in resistance movements in the United States and beyond, with progress being made in the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America towards ending gender discrimination. According to UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, 2017 was a year focused on addressing discriminatory laws. Lebanon, Tunisia, and Jordan made significant strides by abolishing laws that allowed rapists to avoid punishment by marrying their victims, a move that activists hope will inspire other Arab countries to follow suit. During a protest march in Hollywood, a woman wore an outfit displaying the names of all the men in Hollywood who sexually harassed her, in support of survivors of sexual assault and their allies. In a series of positive developments against child marriage, several countries including Malawi, Honduras, Trinidad and Tobago, El Salvador, and Guatemala have amended their laws to prohibit the practice. India also made a significant ruling that having sexual relations with a wife aged 15 to 18 is considered rape, even though child marriage is already illegal but common in the country. However, Trump's expansion of the global gag rule, which restricts US funding from organizations providing information about abortion, has negatively impacted family planning services and women's health worldwide, according to charities. On a brighter note, Chile's decision to legalize abortion under certain circumstances marks a victory for activists, leaving only a few countries where abortion is completely banned. Lilian Sepulveda from the Center for Reproductive Rights noted the progress in advancing reproductive human rights despite a challenging global environment. Women's rights leaders emphasized the importance of resisting sexism in 2017, with a focus on changing the narrative to hold abusers accountable. The #MeToo movement was recognized by Time magazine as the most influential entity of 2017. Following Trump's inauguration, millions of women protested worldwide, some wearing pink "pussyhats" in response to his controversial comments about women in a 2005 video. Time magazine has selected the #MeToo social movement as the most influential entity of 2017. Months later, a popular protest movement gained momentum as millions shared stories of sexual abuse and harassment on social media using hashtags like #MeToo and #balancetonporc ("expose your pig") in France. Bob Bland, a national co-chair of the Women's March on Washington, believes this is just the beginning of a new awakening for women. Looking ahead to 2018, she stated that women are motivated and prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. | 2 |
The worst financial crisis in 80 years has severely impacted emerging markets, leading to emergency measures by central banks and calls for international assistance to prevent further investor panic. In the United States, Wachovia Corp reported a record $23.9 billion loss in the third quarter as it prepares to be acquired by Wells Fargo & Co. Emerging market stocks, debt, and currencies have all been affected as investors pull out funds due to concerns about the global economy. Despite efforts by authorities to stabilize the financial system, fears of a global recession persist. Hungary raised interest rates by three points in an attempt to protect its currency, the forint. Belarus's central bank has requested credit from the International Monetary Fund, while Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko anticipates substantial financial aid from the IMF for her country next week. The IMF is also prepared to assist Pakistan, which is facing a balance of payments crisis, and Iceland, whose banks have failed due to frozen credit markets. Neil Dougall, chief emerging markets economist at Dresdner Kleinwort, noted that capital is now shifting back from emerging markets to developed markets, despite the fundamentals remaining stable. Various officials expressed optimism about the financial crisis despite some ongoing problems. Governments worldwide have implemented rescue and liquidity packages amounting to billions of dollars. U.S. Treasury Undersecretary David McCormick predicted a challenging few quarters for the U.S. economy, but suggested a potential recovery late next year. Bringing confidence back to the financial market is crucial, according to McCormick. Bank of England Governor Mervyn King, a key figure in Group of Seven nations' discussions on the crisis, believed that the worst may be over for the financial system, although stability is still a long way off. The strategy to restore the financial strength of our banks, both domestically and internationally, is likely to be viewed as the turning point in the recent banking crisis. This positive outlook was reinforced 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 force, also showed signs of progress in bank lending, with interbank lending gradually returning to normalcy and interest rates on the decline. Banks have resumed lending to sectors, but First Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov stated that it will take two to three weeks for the situation to improve. Despite efforts to combat financial collapse, the main concern is the worsening global economic climate. The Bank of England's recent meeting minutes revealed a significant decline in the UK economy, with Governor King suggesting that the country may be facing its first recession in 16 years. These concerns have caused turmoil in financial markets. Wall Street seemed poised for a rough start as Dow Jones industrial average futures dropped 259 points, or almost 3 percent. European shares were also down by over 4.4 percent, while Japan's Nikkei average closed 6.8 percent lower. In emerging markets, MSCI's sector index hit its lowest point since June 2005, and sovereign debt spreads widened to over 700 basis points beyond Treasury yields for the first time since early 2003. Apart from the forint, other currencies were also struggling, with the Turkish lira hitting a more than two-year low and South Africa's rand at its lowest point in over six years against the dollar. Sanjay Mathur, an economist at the Royal Bank of Scotland in Singapore, expressed concerns about the challenges that may arise from a business cycle downturn, which he predicted could be quite severe. A variety of US companies reported their quarterly results on Wednesday, offering a glimpse into the state of different industries in the world's biggest economy. Tobacco companies Philip Morris International and Reynolds American Inc, along with fast-food chain McDonald's Corp, exceeded analysts' expectations with their profits, providing some positivity in an otherwise challenging environment. | 2 |
While global leaders and top scientists in Copenhagen discuss strategies to address climate change, farmers in flood-prone regions of northern India are taking action to adapt to changing weather patterns. In Uttar Pradesh, where erratic weather, including heavy rainfall and mountain run-off from Nepal, has caused flooding and destruction, the local population is finding ways to cope. This highlights the vulnerability of the poorest communities in countries like China and India to the impacts of climate change. While debates continue at the global level about carbon emissions and funding, experts suggest that low-cost adaptation methods, drawing on community knowledge, could be effective in assisting at-risk farmers. In the fields of Manoharchak village, where concepts like "global warming" are unfamiliar, experiments are proving successful in changing the lives of impoverished farmers who are using simple yet effective techniques to adapt to the increasing climate variability. Hooblal Chauhan, a farmer in the village, has been making efforts for the past three years to adjust to the changing weather by diversifying his crops and incorporating a variety of vegetables alongside wheat and rice. Residents of Manoharchak have taken measures such as raising road levels, building homes with foundations elevated up to 10 feet, and installing higher hand pumps and drainage channels to combat the effects of climate change. With support from the Gorakhpur Environmental Action Group, farmers are also planting flood-resistant rice and expanding their crop variety to include vegetables like peas, spinach, tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. The variety of crops is said to be very helpful for farmers when their wheat and rice crops fail. Vegetables not only provide a diverse and nutritious diet, but also serve as a source of income when surplus is sold. With increasing intense rain, farmers in the area also have to deal with silt deposition due to prolonged water-logging. Sumitra Chauhan, a 50-year-old widow who grows a variety of vegetables as well as rice and wheat on her two-acre farm, has found ways to overcome this issue. She plants seedlings in nurseries and transfers them to the land once the water drains, ensuring there are no delays. Standing in her lush green plot filled with vegetables like mustard, peas, spinach, and tomatoes, she explains her methods. Farmers are adapting to climate change in eastern Uttar Pradesh by using techniques such as multi-tier cropping, where vegetables are grown on raised platforms supported by bamboo frames. The region has experienced warmer temperatures and dry spells, leading to a lack of rain during monsoon periods. Villagers are coping by buying water pumps for irrigation to reduce their dependence on rain. Oxfam is supporting the action group's work in Uttar Pradesh, where millions of people have been affected by climate-related issues. Some individuals have been compelled to take on debt, while others have moved to urban areas in search of work or have resorted to selling off their assets like livestock to survive. Ekta Bartarya of the Gorakhpur Environmental Action Group emphasized that although developing countries require significant investment to address the impacts of climate change, small and marginalized farmers, among India's most impoverished, can begin to help themselves by utilizing cost-effective and uncomplicated methods. | 2 |
US President Barack Obama is set to unveil a jobs package worth more than $300 billion on Thursday, in an effort to jumpstart the struggling American economy and improve his chances for re-election. The plan will focus on tax cuts for middle-class households and businesses, as well as increased spending on infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges. Obama will deliver a televised speech to Congress urging them to pass his "American Jobs Act" by the end of the year. If successful, the plan could provide a quick economic boost for Obama's re-election campaign, but if it fails, he will likely blame congressional Republicans for obstructing progress. On Thursday morning, White House Chief of Staff Bill Daley criticized the lack of action in Congress, calling for them to return from their vacation and do more instead of just rejecting every proposal. Weak job data has raised concerns about a possible recession, leading the Federal Reserve to consider ways to stimulate demand. G7 finance ministers are expected to urge countries to do more to support growth. President Obama is facing pressure to demonstrate stronger leadership. Both Republicans and Democrats have criticized his economic management, which has put a damper on his chances for re-election in November 2012. According to political scientist Terry Madonna, Obama is facing a crucial moment in his leadership as voters begin to form opinions on the success of his presidency. A recent poll showed that Obama is no longer the frontrunner for the upcoming election. The White House has stated that Obama will emphasize the challenges the US economy is facing and stress the importance of Washington's role in improving the job market as the 2012 election approaches. The main components of the jobs plan include extending payroll tax cuts for workers that were approved last December and implementing tax incentives for businesses to increase hiring. Reports suggest that the plan could cost over $300 billion. The White House senior adviser, Valerie Jarrett, mentioned that President Obama will present the jobs proposals to Congress in legislative form the following week. The goal of Thursday's speech was to promote a sense of "shared responsibility" for the current economic challenges, emphasizing that solving these issues is not solely the president's responsibility. The responsibility for taking action on the issue falls on Congress, the business community, and the American people, according to the speaker. The White House aims to pass legislation this year to address unemployment by spring 2012. Obama needs to show economic progress by mid-2012 to increase his chances of being re-elected. If Congress does not act, the White House is ready to portray Republicans as hindering efforts to solve unemployment. The contentious battle in July over the country's debt levels, resulting in a ratings downgrade by Standard & Poor's, underscored the significant divide between Obama's Democrats and the Republicans who hold the majority in the House of Representatives. Republicans have criticized Obama's $800 billion economic stimulus package from 2009 as excessive spending and are advocating for immediate deficit reductions. On the other hand, Democrats argue that while long-term deficits should be addressed, the economy requires a short-term fiscal stimulus. The White House has mentioned that the jobs package will be funded by future cuts, but has not provided specifics. Obama plans to urge the congressional "super committee" to surpass its target of $1.2 trillion in budget savings, although he will not present his recommendations until next week or later. House Republican leaders John Boehner and Eric Cantor have shown willingness to consider some infrastructure spending and a program proposed by Obama in his jobs plan to train unemployed workers, as a gesture of reconciliation. However, Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in the Senate, criticized the president for accusing those who disagree with his ideas of being too partisan, calling it a political distraction. McConnell argued that opposition to the president's economic policies is based on their ineffectiveness rather than political motives, describing Obama's plan as more of a re-election strategy than a genuine effort to create jobs. | 2 |
The ex-US spy agency contractor, who was stuck in Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport for nearly six weeks, has finally left after a diplomatic battle over his fate between Russia and the United States. Snowden, wanted by Washington for leaking details of surveillance programs, now begins his new life with asylum that can be renewed annually. Former Russian intelligence officers warn that life may not be easy for Snowden, as past defections have shown. Precedents indicate that defectors face internal stress for a long time. Snowden is not the first NSA employee to defect to Moscow, with past defectors facing challenges and disillusionment. The fate of high-profile British defectors also serves as a cautionary tale, with some struggling in exile while others have done well. The Cold War may be over, but the challenges faced by defectors remain the same. Snowden is seen as a valuable asset for the Kremlin, who frequently criticizes the US for promoting human rights internationally while not following them domestically. According to media expert Anna Kachkayeva, Snowden is no longer in control of his own fate and is being used as a political tool. She describes him as a potential threat that could be used for a specific purpose, such as appearing on television. The decision of the Kremlin to provide shelter to Snowden has been positively received by the Russian public. A Moscow resident named Ivan expressed support for Snowden, stating that he does not view him as a traitor. Yevgeny, a resident of St. Petersburg, also agreed, criticizing the actions of the Americans and believing that Snowden spoke the truth and deserved protection. A survey conducted by independent pollster Levada revealed that 43 percent of Russians support the decision to harbor Snowden, while 29 percent are against it. Snowden has received a marriage proposal from former Russian spy Anna Chapman via Twitter, as well as a job offer from a Russian social networking site. Anatoly Kucherena, a Russian lawyer assisting Snowden, mentioned that there are others interested in hiring Snowden, ensuring that he will have employment opportunities. "He said that it is possible that he will have his own TV show," he told Reuters. The Kremlin has not shown any interest in turning Snowden into a television celebrity. However, Russian state television has provided a platform for Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks, to criticize the United States. Kucherena stated that Snowden will be staying with American expatriates who support his leaks for now, and he plans to bring Snowden's father, Lonnie, a US lawyer, and other friends for moral support. Despite this, Snowden is at risk due to the unpredictable political environment and his value to Russia may decline over time. Korolkov, a former KGB officer, noted that defectors' worth lies in their knowledge and skills, which can become outdated. Some experts believe that Snowden may have sacrificed some of his freedom for security in Russia. Misha Glenny, a British author specializing in Internet security and eastern Europe, expressed his belief that Russia may not be as attractive to Snowden as he had initially thought. Glenny suggested that Snowden could encounter challenges in carrying out the activities he hopes to pursue in Russia. | 2 |
A recent report by the United Nations has shown that the poverty rate in Bangladesh has decreased from 49 per cent to 31 per cent due to advancements in various aspects of human development. However, the rate of poverty reduction has not been consistent across all areas, with some regions still experiencing high levels of poverty. The UNDP country director noted that while certain growth centres have seen a significant decrease in poverty, coastal and char areas continue to struggle. Despite this disparity, the report commended Bangladesh for its overall progress and predicted that the country would soon move up to the medium human development index category. Priesner stated that Bangladesh has made significant long-term progress on the Human Development Index (HDI), but emphasized the importance of not becoming complacent. The country's HDI score improved from 0.497 to 0.5, with a notable improvement in gender inequality. Overall inequality in HDI decreased from 29% to 22%, indicating strong performance. Bangladesh was ranked slightly below Pakistan (0.504), with Delhi leading Dhaka. The UN country director highlighted the need for Bangladesh to address environmental degradation, the effects of climate change, and disaster risks in order to continue improving. He stated that the main points of the report focus on sustainable urbanization, addressing climate change, providing clean energy to those in poverty, and tackling environmental degradation. The current rate of urbanization is not sustainable, with climate change disproportionately affecting the poor. Access to clean energy is crucial for the development of impoverished communities, and failure to address environmental degradation will harm those who rely on natural resources. He emphasized that equity and sustainable development go hand in hand. | 2 |
The survey showed that the percentage of adults who identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender increased from 4.5% in 2017 to 5.6%. More than half of LGBT adults identified as bisexual. Additionally, one in six adults in Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2002, identified as LGBT. Gallup's senior editor, Jeffrey Jones, stated that the growth in Americans identifying as LGBTQ is expected to continue, as younger generations are more likely than older generations to consider themselves LGBT. Jones stated that Americans have shown more support for equal rights for LGBTQ individuals, leading to an increase in the number of people who now identify as LGBT. Sarah Kate Ellis, the president and CEO of GLAAD, a media organization and advocacy group for LGBTQ individuals, believes that the findings demonstrate that visibility and acceptance can help individuals come out of the closet. The survey, which was conducted in 2020 and included over 15,000 interviews with Americans aged 18 and older from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, used both cellphone and landline interviews to ask participants about their self-identification. You have the option to choose multiple identities that apply to you: straight or heterosexual; lesbian; gay; bisexual; transgender." Gallup noted that the margin of error for the poll was plus or minus 1 percentage point for all adults and plus or minus 5 percentage points for LGBT adults. This recent poll included a more detailed question about sexual orientation compared to previous years, with respondents providing their specific orientation rather than a simple "yes" or "no" response to being identified as LGBT. The Supreme Court has issued several significant rulings in the last decade, creating a more supportive environment for LGBTQ individuals. One such ruling in 2013 granted federal benefits to married same-sex couples. In 2015, the court determined that same-sex marriage was a constitutional right across the nation. More recently, in June, it ruled that civil rights legislation safeguards gay and transgender workers. However, obstacles persist for LGBTQ individuals. Despite numerous religious leaders from various countries calling for a worldwide prohibition on conversion therapy, only around 20 states have implemented some form of restriction on this controversial practice. Throughout President Donald Trump's tenure, the scaling back of rights for transgender individuals was evident throughout the federal government. A recent report from GLAAD revealed a decrease in LGBTQ representation on television for the first time in five years. The US House of Representatives is expected to vote on the Equality Act this week, a bill that aims to enhance protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. While LGBTQ advocacy groups were pleased with the Gallup results, they emphasized the need for more inclusive estimates for those who identify differently or are gender nonconforming. Amit Paley, the CEO of the Trevor Project, emphasized the importance of understanding the diverse experiences of individuals and the challenges in gathering accurate data on LGBTQ individuals to inform new policies. Paley stated that the country lacks accurate information on the number of LGBTQ individuals who die by suicide due to a lack of data on gender identity or sexual orientation in death records, leading to the erasure of LGBTQ people in significant ways. | 2 |
The evening reception hosted by the Bangladesh High Commissioner to the UK, Mijarul Quayes, in collaboration with BRAC and Oxfam, took place on Thursday night. The event was attended by parliamentarians, diplomats, civil society representatives, and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, according to a press release by Rachel Cawood, the digital press officer of Oxfam GB. During the event, the High Commissioner discussed the significant improvements made by Bangladesh in socio-economic indicators, highlighting the crucial role of collaboration between civil society organizations and the state. Quayes also praised Oxfam for its support during Bangladesh's Liberation War and post-war reconstruction efforts. BRAC, originally from Bangladesh, is now an international NGO that is dedicated to improving lives globally. BRAC UK's Chief Executive, Mary Garvey, acknowledged the progress made by Bangladesh in areas such as child health and women's empowerment, with support from organizations like Oxfam and BRAC. Oxfam Chief Executive, Mark Goldring, emphasized the ongoing need for assistance in Bangladesh, especially in the face of climate change and natural disasters. | 2 |
During the political period of 2016-20, the idea that liberalism was dominant was exaggerated. Although Donald Trump secured the presidency in 2016 with a minority of the popular vote, more Americans voted for Republican congressional candidates than Democrats. Additionally, more Americans supported right-of-center presidential candidates, including the Libertarian party, over Hillary Clinton and Jill Stein. While Republicans had structural advantages, Democrats were still able to regain control of the House of Representatives in 2018 and the presidency in 2020 and the Senate in 2021. These successes continued the trend of American politics in the 21st century, characterized by significant shifts every few election cycles rather than one party dominating. However, after 2024, the political landscape may resemble the challenges faced by liberalism during the Trump era. David Shor, a prominent figure in liberalism, has predicted that due to a combination of factors such as an unfavorable Senate map for Democrats and existing disadvantages in the Electoral College and Senate, the party could win a majority of votes in Congress and the presidency but still lose the White House and face a strong Republican majority in the Senate. This scenario would be a nightmare for liberals, but conservatives should not be pleased either. Conservatives have increasingly supported institutions like the Senate and Electoral College by arguing that the United States is a democratic republic, not a pure democracy. However, as the overall results of the system become increasingly undemocratic, these arguments lose credibility. For example, if state legislatures were to override voters in their states, the arguments in favor of the system would not hold up. The Electoral College and Senate can maintain legitimacy when results are close, but if one party consistently holds power without majority support, it leads to delegitimization and disillusionment. Simply relying on the system's advantages is not enough to ensure conservative governance is seen as legitimate; instead, the Republican Party should strive to win majorities outright. A political party will not willingly give up its advantages, and it is unlikely that there will ever be a bipartisan agreement to abolish the Senate. However, it is reasonable to expect a party to be more ambitious in seeking electoral victories, as exemplified by past successful leaders like Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon. In the current challenging political climate, Republicans have the opportunity to address concerns about the Electoral College by taking reasonable positions, selecting strong candidates, and winning elections outright. This includes avoiding voter-fraud paranoia and rejecting divisive politics like those of the Tea Party era. For example, Republican primary voters could make a positive choice by selecting Brian Kemp over David Perdue in the Georgia gubernatorial primary. It suggests the possibility of the GOP nominating someone other than Trump in 2024, which may be challenging for the party. Winning popular majorities could still enhance their Senate or Electoral College majorities due to structural advantages, but this is a common occurrence in democratic systems. It contrasts with consistently losing the popular vote yet still gaining power. As for addressing the Democrats' disadvantages, that is a more extensive conversation, but two initial points can be made. First, if the party is looking to address its structural challenges, it needs to have a clear understanding of what electoral reforms would be effective. During the Biden era, liberal reformers spent time and energy on voting bills that ultimately did not pass and would not have significantly benefited the party if they had been successful. Another reform idea, granting statehood to the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, may not have been achievable at that time but would have been more responsive to the challenges facing Democrats in the Senate. Therefore, advocating for an expanded Senate may be a more realistic strategy for liberal activists and legislators when their party is in power. Second, if Democrats want to achieve greater parity in the Senate and Electoral College without structural reform, they may need to focus on winning back culturally conservative Latino and working-class white voters who were part of Barack Obama's coalition but have since shifted towards the right. The faction would have two main goals: following a carefully tested economic policy agenda that differs from centrist Democrats and actively setting themselves apart from organized progressivism on social and cultural issues. It is important that they do this not just for strategic reasons but as a matter of principle, showing voters that they truly believe in their moderate stance and will challenge progressive ideals even once in office. While there are currently scattered politicians who align with this faction, there is a need for a cohesive agenda, funding from donors, and support from intellectuals. However, necessity may force the Democratic Party to address this issue in the near future. Copyright 2022 by The New York Times Company. | 2 |
The scene involving the aliens attacking iconic sites has been removed from the final version of the sci-fi comedy featuring Adam Sandler, distributed by Sony Pictures Entertainment in the United States this week. According to internal Sony Pictures emails, executives decided to spare the Great Wall in order to secure approval for the film's release in China. Several other changes were made to avoid content that could be seen as negative by Chinese authorities, including references to China as a potential culprit in an attack and a mention of a "Communist-conspiracy brother" hacking a mail server. These alterations were made to increase the chances of the movie "Pixels" being successful in the global box office. Li Chow, the chief representative of Sony Pictures in China, advised senior Sony executives in a December 2013 email that breaking a hole in the Great Wall, while not a problem on a global scale, would not benefit the release of a film in China. Therefore, Li recommended against doing so. This email was one of many confidential Sony emails and documents that were hacked and made public in late 2014. The US government attributed the breach to North Korea. In April, WikiLeaks released a searchable online archive of the emails, memos, and presentations from the Sony hack. A spokesman for Sony Pictures, a division of Sony Corp. based in Tokyo, stated that they will not be making any comments on stolen emails or internal discussions regarding specific content decisions. The process of determining the best way to release a film involves various factors, with creating content that appeals to a global audience while maintaining creative integrity being a top priority. Chinese government and film-industry officials did not provide any comments on the matter. The leaked emails also show how Sony executives carefully considered Chinese preferences when producing movies, such as the 2014 remake of "RoboCop." In one email from 2013, a senior vice president at Sony Pictures Releasing International suggested relocating a weapons conglomerate from China to a Southeast Asian country like Vietnam or Cambodia to make the film more acceptable to Chinese authorities. Ultimately, it can be seen in the movie that the proposed change was not implemented. Bruno has left Sony since then. The leaked Sony emails reveal the extent to which the movie studio practiced self-censorship in anticipation of Beijing's reaction. Hollywood's increasing reliance on the Chinese audience is evident, with box office revenues in China growing while declining in the United States and Canada. Other studios have also altered movies to gain approval from Beijing for screening in China. The comparison between the Chinese and international versions of "Iron Man 3" reveals that a scene featuring a Chinese doctor was extended in the Chinese version and included popular Chinese actress Fan Bingbing. The movie, produced by Marvel Studios, was the second highest-grossing film in China in 2013. Marvel did not provide a comment on the matter. The concept of self-censorship is evident in the case of "Pixels," where the Sony emails indicate the creation of a single, China-friendly version for all audiences. Sony's reasoning behind this decision was explained by Steven O'Dell, president of Sony Pictures Releasing International, in a September 12, 2013 email regarding "RoboCop." O'Dell suggested that changing the China-related elements to another country would be a simple solution. The recommendation is to change all versions of the film, not just the China version, in order to avoid criticism from the press. The US motion-picture industry is trying to appeal to China, despite the country's crackdown on civil society under President Xi Jinping. China's restrictions on civil liberties are now impacting global audiences, as seen in the removal of scenes from "Pixels" to avoid offending Beijing. This demonstrates how China's values are influencing international standards in the film industry. Peter Shiao, founder and CEO of Orb Media Group, stated that studios have become more aware when it comes to producing films, especially global blockbusters, to ensure they are not rejected by the Chinese audience for social or political reasons. He mentioned Sony's incident with the film "The Interview" depicting the assassination of Kim Jong-un, where the studio initially halted the release due to threats, but ultimately released the movie after backlash. President Barack Obama warned against self-censorship in response to the incident. During his year-end White House press briefing, Obama expressed concerns about the implications of allowing intimidation to prevent the release of satirical movies, warning that it could lead to self-censorship in response to disapproval of documentaries or news reports. He emphasized that America should not compromise its values or freedom of expression. Despite falling box office receipts in the United States and Canada, Hollywood studios are increasingly drawn to the lucrative Chinese market, where box office receipts have seen significant growth. China is expected to set a new record for box office receipts in 2015. As of early June 2015, the action movie "Fast & Furious 7" was the top-grossing film in China, making $383 million, surpassing the $351 million earned in the United States and Canada combined. Following closely behind were "Avengers: Age of Ultron" and "Jurassic World." Wang Fenglin, vice president of the China Film Producers' Association, predicted last November that the Chinese film market would surpass the United States as the largest in the world within three years. This prediction seems to have influenced decisions made by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc when remaking the action movie "Red Dawn" in 2012. The studio changed the nationality of the invading soldiers from Chinese to North Korean in post-production, as confirmed by Red Dawn producer Tripp Vinson. MGM did not provide any comment in response to requests. In China, in order for a movie to be shown in theaters, it must first receive approval from the Film Bureau, led by Zhang Hongsen, a prominent member of the Communist Party and domestic television screenwriter. Zhang has expressed the need for the Chinese film industry to grow and become more powerful in the face of increasing pressure from foreign films. The Film Bureau is under the authority of the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT), which is directly accountable to the State Council. This administration oversees state-owned communication enterprises such as China Central Television and China Radio International, and censorship guidelines were established in a 2001 order from the State Council. The directive prohibits content that poses a threat to China's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as content that damages national dignity and disrupts social harmony. It also prohibits content that goes against public morality and national customs. In addition, the guidelines issued by SAPPRFT include bans on material that criticizes the government and political figures. The expansion of these guidelines was evident in an email sent by Sanford Panitch last November, who is now the President of International Film and Television at Sony. In the email, Panitch mentioned new measures being enforced by SAPPRFT officials, including addressing previously unspecified areas such as decadence, fortune telling, hunting, and particularly, sexuality. Film studios must collaborate with China Film Group Corp, a government-owned company responsible for importing and distributing foreign films. China Film Group Corp also has the potential to invest in some projects. Sony executives explored a co-financing agreement in which China Film Group Corp would contribute 10 percent of the budget for "Pixels". The company is led by La Peikang, a member of the Communist Party and former deputy head of the Film Bureau. A maximum of 34 foreign films are permitted to enter the Chinese market annually, with a revenue-sharing system giving foreign studios 25 percent of box office earnings. Fourteen out of the films must be in advanced formats such as 3D or IMAX, as shown by the Sony emails highlighting the unpredictable censorship process in China. In early 2014, the studio faced a request to remove a crucial yet unsettling scene from "RoboCop" for Chinese viewers. An email from international executive Steven O'Dell dated January 28, 2014 expressed frustration with the censorship on "RoboCop," specifically regarding the scene where the protagonist's inner workings are exposed. O'Dell hoped to navigate the censorship by only making slight modifications to the scene. "We are unsure about taking a definitive stance on this issue due to the significant amount of money involved. We hope we do not have to remove the scene. The current political environment under President Xi is also a factor, as indicated in an email. Sony China executive Li Chow expressed doubts about the government's flexibility in early 2014, citing the conservative nature of the present government and the frequent cuts to the movie Robocop. The censorship board members appear hesitant and cautious. When discussing "Pixels," Sony executives struggle to understand the sensitivities of the Chinese authorities. In a November 1, 2013 email, Li Chow proposed several script changes, including removing the scene where a hole is smashed in the Great Wall." She suggested that it would be better to show recognizable historical sites around the world being destroyed on a large scale. She also recommended changing a scene where officials speculate about a potential attack from China to instead consider Russia, Iran, or Google. She advised against portraying China as lacking advanced technology and warned against depicting a communist conspiracy involving hacking. Additionally, she proposed removing a scene at the Great Wall and relocating a car chase scene involving Pac-Man from Tokyo to Shanghai. Li Chow cautioned against moving the Pac-Man action from Tokyo to Shanghai due to potential destruction and sensitivity issues in the city. She expressed concern in an email dated December 18, 2013, questioning where the line should be drawn when it comes to collateral damage. As a result of these concerns, all references to China in the movie were ultimately removed, a decision that seems to have been finalized in early 2014. International executive O'Dell mentioned that Doug Belgrad, the then-Columbia Pictures President, seemed to be following Li's advice by removing all China references from the movie Pixels, such as not using the Great Wall as one of the set pieces. The consequences of not obtaining approval to release a movie in China were evident in Sony emails. For example, a Sony marketing executive sent an email in February 2014 stating that the movie "Captain Phillips" would not be shown in China. This decision affected budget discussions as Sony executives had initially anticipated earning $120 million globally from the movie, but this changed when it was not approved for screening in China. An email from a conference call mentioned that they were now short $9 million due to the absence of a release in China. "We must make every effort to maximize our earnings in order to achieve our goals. It is the responsibility of all of us to find ways to increase our revenue from this film." Rory Bruer, president of worldwide distribution at Sony Pictures, expressed doubts in a December 2013 email that "Captain Phillips" would be approved by China's censors due to the plot involving the US military rescuing the ship's captain. Bruer speculated that this element could make Chinese officials uncomfortable and predicted that the film would likely never pass censorship in China. The US military's large presence is the reason behind the rescue of a US citizen, which China would not do or support. Additionally, the political tone of the film is not something China would be comfortable with. However, Beijing seems to be fine with the movie "Pixels" as it has been approved for release in China and will open on September 15th. | 2 |
Republican candidates for the White House expressed strong support for the military mission in Iraq but raised concerns about the Bush administration's handling of the war during a subdued initial debate. The debate, held at Ronald Reagan's presidential library in California, did not feature many direct clashes but did reveal some disagreements among the 10 candidates on issues such as abortion. Most of the contenders for the 2008 election emphasized the importance of achieving victory in Iraq, contrasting with Democratic candidates who had advocated for a swift end to the conflict in their own debate. Sen. John McCain of Arizona, a prominent supporter of the war and the president's plan to increase troop levels in Iraq, stressed the necessity of success in Iraq to prevent chaos, genocide, and potential threats to the United States. Rudolph Giuliani, the ex-mayor of New York and the top Republican candidate in national polls, emphasized the importance of not backing down against terrorism. However, other candidates expressed concerns about the Bush administration's handling of the war. McCain criticized the management of the war for the past four years, pointing out a lack of judgment in listening to civilian advisers over military generals. Former Arkansas Governor also highlighted the issue of not giving enough attention to the advice of the military leaders. Mike Huckabee participated in a debate in California during a difficult time for Republicans, following their loss of power in Congress. Polls indicate widespread dissatisfaction with President Bush, the Iraq war, and the Republican party as a whole, a year and a half before the 2008 presidential election. Candidates are facing a tough decision on whether to align themselves with Bush and his policies. Mitt Romney, despite low national poll numbers, emphasized the importance of focusing on bringing troops home from the war. Romney acknowledged the need to carefully navigate the issue of abortion rights within the Republican party, expressing concern about causing a situation that would necessitate a reversal of decisions. He addressed criticisms from conservatives regarding his and Giuliani's positions on gay rights and abortion, with Romney defending his change of stance on abortion as a genuine shift in opinion. Despite differing views, most candidates agreed on the need to repeal the Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. Giuliani also mentioned that he would be accepting of it, but believes that the issue of abortion should be decided by individual states. Virginia Gov James Gilmore expressed his support for abortion rights within the first eight to 12 weeks of pregnancy, despite having implemented restrictions on abortion during his time as governor. The debate, held at the Reagan library, prompted numerous praises for the former president and conservative figure, with candidates commending Reagan's leadership and conservative values. Former first lady Nancy Reagan and California Gov Arnold Schwarzenegger were in attendance at the front row during the debate. However, Reagan's presence did not sway many of the candidates to agree with her advocacy for federal funding for stem cell research. Other participants included Kansas Senator Sam Brownback, Representatives Tom Tancredo of Colorado, Ron Paul of Texas, and Duncan Hunter of California, as well as former Governor Tommy Thompson of Wisconsin. | 2 |
He addressed a virtual press conference following the opening of a Global Centre on Adaptation office in Dhaka on Tuesday. He emphasized the importance of sharing successful adaptation strategies among nations and called for swift action with shared expertise and financial resources. Ban, the chairman of GCA, praised Bangladesh for its resilience in managing disasters amidst global discussions on climate change. He specifically mentioned the successful evacuation of a large number of people during the recent cyclone Amphan, which occurred during the coronavirus pandemic. In his speech during the inauguration, Ban Ki-moon praised the country as a prime example of effectively addressing climate change. This is why the office was established in Bangladesh, he explained. Referring to statistics from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the GCA chairman warned that 17 percent of Bangladesh could be submerged if the sea level rises by 1 meter by 2050. Additionally, a UN report indicates that even a slight rise in sea level could lead to flooding in Dhaka city, underscoring the serious threats Bangladesh faces as one of the nations most susceptible to the impacts of global warming. He stressed the importance of long-term planning, preparedness, understanding of potential risks and ways to mitigate them, education, and awareness in addressing this crisis. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina participated in the opening of the office through a video conference from Ganabhaban. Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen was also present at the event. | 2 |
Around 300 protesters, dressed in white boiler suits, gathered on the red carpet at the Venice Film Festival, where celebrities like Brad Pitt and Scarlett Johansson have premiered their movies. They held banners with messages about the climate crisis and against cruise ships, while chanting slogans and being surrounded by police. Chiara Buratti, a member of the Venice anti-cruise ship committee, stated that the protesters wanted to raise awareness about the climate crisis and hoped for celebrity support. The demonstration took place early in the morning and ended peacefully in the afternoon. The festival's last day is Saturday, when the winner of the Golden Lion prize will be announced. Buratti mentioned that the protesters were planning to hold a march on the Lido later in the day. The demonstrators, representing Italian and foreign groups, were participating in a five-day event called the Venice Climate Camp. Sina Reisch from the German group Ende Gelande emphasized that the climate crisis knows no borders, and it is essential to recognize that the struggles are interconnected. Rocker Mick Jagger and veteran actor Donald Sutherland showed their support for the demonstrators, who will present their thriller "The Burnt Orange Heresy" at a later event. Jagger expressed satisfaction that young people are taking action to protect the planet, as they will be the ones to inherit it. He mentioned the challenging environmental situation, particularly in the US where environmental protections are being dismantled by the current administration. Sutherland also praised environmental protesters for their efforts and emphasized the importance of supporting causes like migrant rights. He urged people to vote out politicians who do not prioritize environmental protection for the sake of future generations. He stated that they are destroying the world. While acknowledging our own contribution to its downfall, he emphasized that they are actively ensuring its destruction. | 2 |
Trump's recent decision to possibly end the agreement marks a significant shift in US foreign policy, particularly as tensions with North Korea are at a peak. This move comes shortly after he signed an executive order to dismantle Obama's healthcare reform. The deal, also supported by China, France, Russia, Britain, Germany, and the EU, was intended to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. However, Trump believes the agreement was too lenient and has left it up to Congress to potentially modify or reinstate US sanctions on Iran. He expressed concerns about the potential consequences of continuing with the deal, including increased violence and terrorism. European allies are cautioning about a potential rift with the United States over the nuclear agreement, stating that President Trump's decision to put it on hold harms the country's credibility internationally. Trump's prioritization of "America First" in international agreements has also resulted in the US pulling out of the Paris climate accord and the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade talks, as well as renegotiating NAFTA with Canada and Mexico. In response, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani affirmed Iran's commitment to the deal and criticized Trump for unfounded allegations, asserting that Iran will not succumb to foreign pressure. Rouhani declared that Iran and the agreement remain steadfast and resilient. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani gave a televised speech in Tehran on October 13, 2017, as confirmed by a statement from the UN atomic watchdog. The director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Yukiya Amano, emphasized that Iran is abiding by the nuclear deal and is subject to the most rigorous nuclear verification system in the world. This statement comes in the context of the US president's legal obligation to verify Iran's compliance with the deal every 90 days, which has been done twice by President Trump. Two officials within the administration involved in the Iran policy discussion stated that President Trump disregarded the advice of key figures such as the secretary of defense, secretary of state, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, chief of staff, and national security advisor. Instead, Trump chose to listen to the more hardline perspectives of CIA Director Mike Pompeo and some external parties. The decision was criticized by US Democrats, with Senator Ben Cardin expressing concern about the consequences of isolating the US from its allies. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini also expressed disapproval, stating that the international community cannot afford to dismantle a functioning nuclear agreement. "This agreement is not between two parties. The decision will be made by Congress. The US Congress will have a 60-day period to determine whether to reinstate economic sanctions on Tehran that were removed as part of the agreement. If Congress reinstates the sanctions, the US would be breaching the terms of the nuclear deal, potentially causing it to collapse. If lawmakers take no action, the agreement will remain in effect. A single protester, wearing a mask of Donald Trump, demonstrates outside the White House in opposition to President Trump's announcement regarding the Iran nuclear deal and his approach to Iran on October 13, 2017 in Washington, US." Chairman Bob Corker of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee is working on modifying a law regarding Iran to incorporate "trigger points" that would lead to the automatic reinstatement of US sanctions if Tehran surpasses them. A solitary protestor, wearing a Donald Trump mask, demonstrates outside the White House in opposition to President Trump's stance on the Iran nuclear deal. The triggers are said to include the reimposition of US sanctions if Tehran is believed to be less than a year away from creating a nuclear weapon. Additionally, the trigger points are expected to address stricter nuclear inspections, Iran's ballistic missile program, and eliminate the "sunset clauses" of the deal, which gradually lift restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. The passage of this legislation by Congress is uncertain. Trump issued a warning that if a solution cannot be reached with Congress and allies, the agreement will be terminated. He specifically targeted Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, criticizing their actions in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq. The Trump administration denounced the Revolutionary Guards but did not officially label them as a foreign terrorist organization, despite their significant influence in Iran's security, political, and economic systems. The group had already been sanctioned by the US before, so the impact of the latest measures is likely to be more symbolic than practical. The US military announced on Friday that it was exploring potential collaborations with allies to increase pressure on Iran in alignment with Trump's new strategy. Additionally, they were reassessing the deployment of US forces. However, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis noted that Iran had not engaged in any provocative actions following Trump's announcement. | 2 |
At an event where no single film dominated, Alejandro Inarritu of Mexico won the best directing Oscar for "The Revenant," making him the first filmmaker in over 60 years to win back-to-back Academy Awards. Inarritu previously won in 2015 for "Birdman." "The Revenant" entered the ceremony with 12 nominations and was one of four films considered favorites for best picture after winning Golden Globe and BAFTA awards. The ambitious 20th Century Fox film, set in the Pioneer era and filmed in freezing temperatures, also earned Leonardo DiCaprio his first Oscar win, receiving a standing ovation from the Hollywood audience. DiCaprio used his acceptance speech to call for action on climate change, stating, "I do not take tonight for granted." Voters in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences selected Open Road Films' "Spotlight" as the best picture, a film that follows the Boston Globe's award-winning investigation into child sex abuse by Catholic priests in 2003. The movie also won for best original screenplay. During his acceptance speech, producer Michael Sugar stated that the film gave a voice to survivors and expressed his hope that the Oscar win would help amplify that voice, reaching all the way to the Vatican. Brie Larson, a rising star at 26, won the award for best actress for her performance in "Room," further adding to her collection of trophies. The show featured racial themes and criticism of the lack of diversity in the acting nominee line-up for the second year in a row, with host Rock calling it "the white People's Choice awards." He pointed out the irony of the industry's sudden focus on diversity, questioning why it hadn't been addressed decades ago when black Americans were facing more serious issues like rape and lynching. Rock also visited Compton to ask residents about the Oscar-nominated movies. No one had anything negative to say. Many nominees praised Rock for addressing a difficult topic effectively. Adam McKay, director and co-writer of "The Big Short," thought Rock's approach was critical of Hollywood while remaining fair and addressing diversity in a new way. McKay found it impressive and humorous. Rock was not the only one shining a light on people of color at the Oscars. Alejandro Inarritu, who won the Best Director award for "The Revenant," expressed gratitude for his win and acknowledged the lack of opportunity for others. He hoped for a future where skin color would be as inconsequential as hair length. Mark Rylance surprised by beating Sylvester Stallone for Best Supporting Actor for "Bridge of Spies," but he praised Stallone and called him the true winner. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a fellow action star, expressed his pride in a brief video posted online. Sam Smith's theme song for the James Bond movie "Spectre" won over Lady Gaga's ballad "Til It Happens to You," which raises awareness about sexual assault. Alicia Vikander won the supporting actress Oscar for her role in the transgender movie "The Danish Girl," while the documentary "Amy" about the late Amy Winehouse also received an award. "Mad Max: Fury Road" from Warner Bros was the top winner with six Oscars in technical categories like costume, make-up, and editing. | 2 |
In the dense forests of the picturesque Danube island of Persin, home to endangered species such as the sea eagle and pygmy cormorant, lies the grim remains of a communist-era concentration camp. Between 1949 and 1959, hundreds of individuals labeled as "enemies of the regime" died from abuse, hunger, and exhaustion in Bulgaria's Belene camp, where corpses were even used as pig feed. Despite being largely forgotten two decades after the collapse of communism, a small marble plaque is the only reminder of the camp's tragic history. With growing nostalgia for the past in Bulgaria and other former Soviet countries, the failures of capitalism in improving living conditions, enforcing the rule of law, and combating corruption and nepotism have led to a romanticization of a time when unemployment was low, food was affordable, and social safety nets were strong. Rumen Petkov, a 42-year-old former guard turned clerk at the only prison still operating on Persin island, mentioned that the negative aspects of the past have been overlooked. He noted that there is a sense of nostalgia, especially among the older residents, as he stood in front of the deteriorating buildings of a previous jail that was opened on the site after the camp closed in 1959. In the 1980s, the communists imprisoned many ethnic Turks here for refusing to change their names to Bulgarian. Some young people in the town of Belene, which is connected to the island by a pontoon bridge, also look back fondly on the past. Anelia Beeva, 31, remarked, "We had a better quality of life in the past. We used to go on vacations to the coast and the mountains, and there was an abundance of clothing, shoes, and food." Currently, a large portion of our earnings is being used to purchase food, with many individuals with higher education degrees facing unemployment and choosing to move abroad. In Russia, a number of Soviet-themed restaurants have emerged in Moscow, hosting nostalgia events where individuals don pioneer attire and dance to communist music. Traditional Soviet products such as Champagne and chocolates from Red October are still popular for birthday parties, and "USSR" apparel is a common sight throughout the country during the summer months. While there is little desire for old regimes to be reinstated, analysts believe that apathy is a significant result. Bulgarian sociologist Vladimir Shopov stated that nostalgia can hinder progress by draining the motivation for meaningful change. Across former communist eastern Europe, there is a widespread disillusionment with democracy, and mistrust of the elites responsible for EU citizenship is high. A regional poll conducted by the U.S. Pew Research Center in September revealed a significant decline in support for democracy and capitalism in countries such as Ukraine, Bulgaria, Lithuania, and Hungary. For example, only 30 percent of Ukrainians approved of the transition to democracy in 2009, a sharp decline from 72 percent in 1991. In Bulgaria and Lithuania, the percentage of the population affected by the slide decreased from nearly three-quarters in 1991. Surveys conducted by the U.S.-based human rights group Freedom House indicate a regression or lack of progress in corruption, governance, independent media, and civil society in the new EU-member states. The global economic crisis has negatively impacted the region, challenging the neoliberal capitalism approach endorsed by the West. As a result, aspirations of catching up with wealthy Western neighbors have been replaced by feelings of injustice due to the widening wealth gap. In Hungary, where the economic downturn has been particularly severe, a survey conducted by pollster Szonda Ipsos in October revealed that 70 percent of adults who were already living in 1989 expressed disappointment with the outcomes of the regime change. People in the former Yugoslav countries, who suffered through ethnic wars in the 1990s and are still not part of the EU, are feeling nostalgic for the socialist era of Josip Broz Tito. During Tito's time, they were able to travel freely across Europe without needing a visa. Belgrade pensioner Koviljka Markovic, 70, expressed that life was better back then, with lower street crime rates, secure job opportunities, and salaries that allowed for a decent standard of living. Markovic now struggles to survive on her monthly pension of 250 euros ($370). In Bulgaria, some people are beginning to view the 33-year rule of the late dictator Todor Zhivkov as a golden era compared to the corruption and crime that followed his downfall. More than 60 percent of people believe that they had a better life in the past, despite facing shopping queues, relying on social connections for valuable goods, not having access to jeans or Coca Cola, and needing to wait up to 10 years to buy a car. Historians Andrei Pantev and Bozhidar Gavrilov noted that for some Bulgarians, security was more important than freedom. Bulgaria, which joined the EU three years ago, still has the lowest average monthly salary and pension in the EU. Even countries like Poland and the Czech Republic, which joined the EU in 2004, have lower incomes compared to western Europe. A 2008 Gallup survey ranked Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania among the top 10 most unhappy countries in the world. Zsofia Kis, a 23-year-old student in Budapest, commented on how the older generation was content with what they had, in contrast to the current desire for more material possessions. Kis mentioned how communist regimes suppressed unemployment rates, and after years of difficult reforms, people are hesitant to make further sacrifices required for a complete overhaul of the economy and judiciary. This has led to demoralization and a rise in support for political parties advocating for stricter measures. Former KGB agent Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has referred to the collapse of the Soviet Union as the most significant geopolitical disaster of the century. Critics of the Kremlin believe that there is a gradual rehabilitation of the Soviet Union happening in order to justify the government's restrictions on the media and opposition groups. Historian Nikita Petrov from the Memorial human rights group has stated that there is a glorification of the Soviet era being promoted deliberately to make the Soviet regime appear appealing to the current generation. In Bulgaria, powerful individuals who dominate entire industries have emerged from the ranks of the former communist party and its feared secret services. The names of dishonest politicians and criminal leaders are well-known, yet Bulgaria has not prosecuted any high-ranking officials for corruption and has only imprisoned one crime boss since 1989. No one has faced consequences for the oppressive actions of the communist regime. Commonly used terms among Bulgarians include "dalavera," a Turkish term for fraud, "mutri," a derogatory term for unsightly mafiosi, and "mente," which refers to counterfeit goods. Many people are starting to doubt that success can be achieved through honest means. Boriana Dimitrova from Bulgarian polling agency Alpha Research stated that success is seen as illegal, especially in the Balkans, the poorest area of Europe where powerful parallel structures are untouchable. Some people believe that the old regime, despite being repressive, at least maintained law and order. Prime Minister Boiko Borisov of the center-right populist GERB party won a landslide election in Bulgaria in July by promising to end the culture of impunity. Analysts believe that only populist governments can thrive in the region due to public discontent and economic recession. Ivan Krastev of Sofia's Liberal Strategies Institute stated that there is a high level of mistrust in the political elite and institutions, making it difficult to convince people to take action under unpopular governments. Some in Bulgaria criticize the West for accepting former communist officials into the new elite. Critics point to the election of Bulgarian Irina Bokova, a former communist apparatchik and ambassador to Paris, as head of UNESCO in September as an example of Western hypocrisy. Bokova's past in Moscow during communism helped her advance in her diplomatic career in the 1990s. Some eastern Europeans feel they have succeeded in adopting capitalist standards in the pursuit of materialism. During the boom years, many loans were used to purchase luxury items such as cars, yachts, designer clothes, and take exotic vacations. Western culture influence was so strong that even babies were given Western names and reality TV shows like "Big Brother" became popular. Renowned Bulgarian artist Nikola Manev, living in Paris, expressed concern over the Americanization of Bulgaria, noting the prevalence of English language and American-themed businesses. He questioned why Bulgarian culture was being overshadowed by foreign influences. He observed that despite the new developments and material wealth, people's emotional well-being has deteriorated, leading to increased sadness and aggression. He recommended spiritual remedies to address this issue. This fall, tickets for performances at Sofia's theaters are in high demand, selling out weeks ahead of time, a phenomenon that hasn't been seen in many years. | 2 |
Ardem Patapoutian and David Julius were awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine on Monday. Giorgio Parisi, Syukuro Manabe, and Klaus Hasselmann won the Nobel Prize in Physics for their work on deciphering chaotic climate patterns. Benjamin List and David MacMillan received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their development of a tool for molecule building. Tanzanian novelist Abdulrazak Gurnah, aged 72, became the second writer of color in sub-Saharan Africa to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. The last Black recipient of the prize was Toni Morrison in 1993. Anne-Marie Morhed, head of the Swedish Association of Female Academics, noted that Gurnah meets the criteria of a writer from a non-traditional cultural background, but is not a woman. There are still two awards left to be given - the Peace Prize and the Economy Prize. The Nobel committee in Norway has the opportunity to recognize a woman for one of these prizes. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, an exiled Belarus opposition leader, and Greta Thunberg are among the women being considered for the Nobel Peace Prize. Both the current and previous Norwegian Nobel Committees are predominantly made up of women, with a woman leading each committee. In recent years, there has been a strong effort to diversify the recipients of prestigious awards such as the Nobel Prize, moving away from solely awarding white men from North America and Western Europe as was common in the past. Despite the history of a dozen Black peace laureates, there has never been a Black winner in the fields of medicine, chemistry, and physics, according to Professor Winston Morgan of the University of East London. He has studied representation in these awards as part of his research on inequality in the sciences. Morgan highlights the significant gender gap in prize winners, noting the minimal number of female recipients. Scientists of both genders have expressed their disappointment on social media regarding the lack of recognition for women in this year's awards. GenderAvenger, a non-profit organization focused on promoting women's voices in public discussions, criticized the Nobel Prize announcements for lacking gender diversity. They described the situation as a predictable outcome, with only 4 out of 6 categories revealed and no women recognized. The group questioned if the narrative of the 2021 Nobel Prize was dominated by men, but clarified that women are also making significant contributions. Some individuals, such as Ellie Murray, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Boston University School of Public Health, were disappointed by the omission of key female scientists like Katalin Kariko and Kizzmekia Corbett, who played crucial roles in the development of mRNA vaccines that are having a profound impact on the pandemic. According to Nobel watchers, it is highly probable that Kariko and Corbett will eventually receive recognition in the future. The committee typically rewards recipients after a certain period of time, as they adhere to specific criteria and traditions. It is anticipated that the committee will acknowledge scientific advancements during the pandemic in the next three to four years. Although the number of women and scientists from Japan and China receiving Nobel prizes is increasing, there is not a similar trend for Black scientists. "I am more concerned about that," he stated. He emphasized the importance of questioning whether there are an adequate number of black scientists in universities and if they are receiving enough support. When asked about the limited number of Black Nobel Prize winners in literature, Gurnah mentioned to Reuters that the world is evolving. Jesper Haeggstrom, who heads the Nobel Assembly responsible for awarding the Physiology or Medicine prize, stated that there is no simple explanation for the lack of female laureates, attributing it to the historical under-representation of women in science. He added that the further back in time one looks, the fewer female candidates there are. Haeggstrom refused to disclose if gender influenced the committee's selection process, emphasizing that scientific competence is the main consideration. Critics have raised concerns about the lack of gender diversity in the composition of scientific selection committees, citing examples like the medicine selection committee where only 25 percent of professors are women. The Committee for Physics at the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences also lacks gender balance, with only one woman among the six members and both co-opted members being men. The chemistry committee is made up of six male members and two co-opted members, both of whom are women. | 2 |
The prime minister encouraged citizens to plant additional trees as she launched the 'National Tree Plantation Campaign' at Ganabhaban on Saturday. She emphasized the importance of World Environment Day and shared that she had also planted trees. She urged all individuals in the country to plant trees wherever there is space available, suggesting that it is optimal to plant three trees at once. If you are unable to plant more than one tree, make sure to plant at least one. Emphasizing the urgency of climate change, the leader of the Awami League called for efforts to create a more environmentally friendly Bangladesh. She also discussed the government's efforts in promoting afforestation, which she believes will contribute to the country's development now that it has achieved developing nation status. "We have achieved significant success in afforestation, resulting in a 22 percent increase in forest cover." The prime minister also noted that many families are now cultivating their own gardens, recognizing the numerous advantages of a green environment. I encourage everyone to safeguard the environment and their financial stability by planting trees on a large scale. | 2 |
Cuba has decided to release seven of the 59 dissidents who have been imprisoned since 2003, a decision that critics of Fidel Castro see as a sign of change under his brother's leadership. The release, which is the first since August, was arranged by Spain on humanitarian grounds and announced by Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos. Moratinos expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating that it was made unilaterally by the Cuban government after discussions with Spain. According to the Spanish newspaper El Pais, four of the released dissidents will be taken to Spain with their families for medical treatment. These individuals were transferred from various prisons in Cuba to the Combinado del Este prison near Havana before their release. The individuals currently in custody are Omar Pernet, Jose Gabriel Ramon Castillo, Alejandro Gonzalez, and Pedro Pablo Alvarez. Alvarez, aged 60, mentioned in a telephone interview with Reuters that he hopes their release is not the only one. He also stated that all four of them are in good condition and have been treated well. The exact timing of their release is uncertain, as it could potentially happen either today or tomorrow. The dissidents were detained in a political crackdown initiated by Cuban leader Fidel Castro in March 2003, resulting in the imprisonment of 75 of his opponents with sentences of up to 28 years. Sixteen individuals were previously released on medical grounds. Economist Oscar Espinosa Chepe, one of the freed dissidents, viewed the recent releases as a positive move by acting President Raul Castro, who has been in charge of Cuba since Fidel Castro fell ill in July 2006 and has not made any public appearances since then. Espinosa Chepe described the releases as a rational decision by the Cuban government and by reformist factions within the country seeking change. He stated that it demonstrates a changing climate and will be advantageous for that changing climate. Another dissenter, Manuel Cuesta Morua, mentioned that Raul Castro's government is responding to international requests for improved human rights respect in Cuba. The releases are evidence that Spain's strategy of engaging in dialogue with Cuba's communist government, advocated within the European Union, is yielding tangible results, Morua added. According to Cuba's primary human rights organization, the Cuban Commission for Human Rights (which is illegal but tolerated), there were 234 political prisoners in Cuba at the end of 2007, a decrease from 283 the previous year, indicating a decline in the number of Cubans imprisoned for political reasons since Raul Castro assumed power. In August of last year, Cuba released its longest-serving political prisoner, Francisco Chaviano Gonzalez, a former math professor and rights activist who had been imprisoned for over 13 years. Morua stated that additional prisoners will be released as Havana gets ready to sign the U.N. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and a comparable agreement on economic and social rights in the coming month. This commitment would require Cuba to allow regular U.N. oversight of its human rights situation starting in 2009. The Cuban authorities do not permit the International Red Cross to visit its penitentiaries. They reject the idea of detaining any individuals for political reasons and refer to dissidents as "counter-revolutionary mercenaries" funded by their adversary, the United States. | 2 |
The program "Countering Violent Extremism," known as CVE, is set to be renamed as "Countering Islamic Extremism" or "Countering Radical Islamic Extremism," according to sources. This change would align with President Trump's campaign promises and criticisms of former President Obama's approach to fighting Islamic State. The program aims to prevent attacks by forming partnerships with communities and launching educational or counter-messaging campaigns with the help of companies like Google and Facebook. Some supporters of the program worry that rebranding it could hinder cooperation with Muslims who already have concerns about the new administration, especially following Trump's recent executive order on travel from predominantly Muslim countries. The CVE program, aimed at US residents and distinct from a military initiative against online extremism, has been criticized for its ineffectiveness. A source familiar with the Department of Homeland Security's involvement in the program revealed that members of Trump's transition team proposed changing the name and focus of the program during a meeting in December. At a recent meeting attended by senior staff for DHS Secretary John Kelly, government employees were asked to justify their selection of community organizations as recipients of CVE program grants. Despite Congress approving funding for CVE and grant recipients being notified during the Obama administration, the money may not be distributed as Kelly is currently reviewing the situation. The department declined to comment on the matter. The White House did not provide a response when asked for comment. Some Republicans in Congress have criticized a program they believe is politically correct and ineffective, arguing that focusing on "radical Islam" would help prevent violent attacks. Others believe that labeling the issue as "radical Islam" would alienate peaceful Muslim Americans. Many community groups are cautious about the program, concerned it could be used for surveillance by law enforcement. Hoda Hawa, from the Muslim Public Affairs Council, was informed by people within the Department of Homeland Security that there is a push to shift the focus of the program from addressing all forms of violent ideology to specifically Islamist extremism. She expressed concern about the targeting of a specific religious group and labeling them with suspicion. A DHS official mentioned a potential name change, but it is unclear if it has been finalized. The Obama administration worked to collaborate with community organizations for counterterrorism efforts. In 2016, Congress allocated $10 million for CVE initiatives, and DHS distributed the first grants shortly before Trump took office. Those who were approved for grants included local governments, city police departments, universities, and non-profit organizations. In addition to organizations focused on countering Islamic State recruitment in the US, grants were also given to Life After Hate, which helps rehabilitate former neo-Nazis and other domestic extremists. Recent incidents, such as a white supremacist's attack on an African-American church in Charleston and shootings and bombings by Islamist militants in California, Florida, and New York, have been attributed to radical ideologies. One recipient, Leaders Advancing & Helping Communities, a Michigan-based group led by Lebanese-Americans, declined a $500,000 grant from the Department of Homeland Security, as confirmed in an email seen by Reuters. The group's representative declined to provide further comment on the matter. The email, sent last Thursday, stated that LAHC has decided to reject the award due to the current political situation and reasons for worry. This decision was made before Trump's immigration order was issued, which was criticized for being discriminatory towards Muslims. The White House justified the order as a measure to safeguard Americans from terrorist threats posed by foreign individuals. | 2 |
During a livestreamed staff meeting on his Facebook page, Mark Zuckerberg, the chief executive of Facebook, announced that within the next decade, up to half of the company's 48,000 employees may work from home. He emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in our lives, including the way we work, and predicted that remote work will become increasingly popular in the future. This decision by Facebook, the first of its kind among major tech companies, marks a significant shift from the traditional business culture that focuses on bringing employees into large offices and keeping them there with perks like shuttle buses, cafeterias, and personal services. If other large companies follow suit, the landscape of tech employment could potentially move away from expensive hubs like Silicon Valley, Seattle, and New York. The ability to work remotely from home may give tech workers more incentive to relocate to other parts of the country if they feel their high salaries are not enough to afford a home in San Francisco or San Jose. Following Mark Zuckerberg's announcement, other companies like Twitter and Square, led by Jack Dorsey, have also allowed employees to work from home indefinitely. Google employees can work from home until the end of the year, but the company has not made any permanent plans. This trend suggests that remote work is becoming popular among technologists. Following Dorsey's announcement, there was a noticeable increase in Google searches for "Twitter jobs," as reported by Google Trends. Aaron Levie, the CEO of Box, a business technology company, took to Twitter to express his belief that the shift towards remote work is as significant for the future of technology as the introduction of the iPhone over ten years ago. Tech leaders have always valued face-to-face communication as crucial for fostering creativity in developing popular products, evidenced by the elaborate campuses of companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook in Silicon Valley, as well as Amazon's new headquarters in Seattle. Even before the pandemic, major tech companies were already looking to expand beyond their main offices, following in the footsteps of older companies like Intel. Amazon plans to open a second headquarters in Virginia, and the coronavirus pandemic may speed up this process. Prior to the pandemic, there was a focus on bringing workers to office locations and providing affordable housing in the tech sector. This trend is now continuing as employees leave major urban tech hubs and face layoffs, which could have significant effects on local areas. For instance, housing prices in the Bay Area have decreased since the start of the pandemic, as reported by rental firm Zumper. Rent prices in San Francisco decreased by 7% in April, and dropped by 15% in Menlo Park, where Facebook is headquartered. Mark Zuckerberg has always been concerned that employees working remotely would be less productive. Previously, Facebook offered cash incentives to employees living within 10 miles of the main campus. In 2018, Facebook expanded its headquarters with new offices designed by Frank Gehry, including a large roof garden with over 200 trees. Recently, Facebook began moving into a 43-story office building in San Francisco and is currently negotiating for a major office expansion in New York. In March, the coronavirus lockdown required companies to have employees work from home. Tech companies like Facebook cleared out their offices before local shelter-in-place orders were issued. Executives have since found that their remote workers exceeded expectations. Zuckerberg noted that employees stayed focused while working from home. Facebook plans to start by letting new senior engineers work remotely and then allowing current employees to request to work from home if they have good performance reviews. Beginning in January, Facebook will be adjusting employee compensation based on the cost of living in the areas where employees decide to reside. Facebook will verify employee locations by monitoring where they access internal systems from. According to Zuckerberg, this change could bring more advantages than drawbacks for the company. By permitting remote work, Facebook can enhance recruitment efforts, retain key employees, decrease the environmental impact of commuting, and increase workforce diversity. Currently, Facebook, Square, and Twitter are taking a more assertive approach compared to other companies in the industry. Their work is primarily conducted using software code, which can be managed remotely. However, at Apple, a significant number of employees are hardware engineers who must work in the company's lab due to the strict confidentiality surrounding its products. Apple's CEO, Tim Cook, announced in April that the main office in Silicon Valley would remain closed until at least June, with no further updates on the timeline. Startups may struggle with managing a remote workforce, as having employees live in the Midwest could lower costs but Silicon Valley offers a vast talent pool that startups rely on for their workforce. Many venture capitalists, primarily located in Silicon Valley and San Francisco, prefer the companies they invest in to be in close proximity. Snap, the company behind Snapchat in Los Angeles, has allowed employees to work from home until September. CEO Evan Spiegel stated in an interview that he is constantly reevaluating the situation and taking advice from health authorities on when to reopen. Spiegel emphasized the importance of remaining flexible in a rapidly changing situation, despite the pressure to provide definitive statements as a leader. | 2 |
President Barack Obama responded to critics on Thursday who claim he has not achieved much during his nine months in office, stating that he is just beginning. He has faced criticism from both liberals and conservatives in recent weeks, with some wanting more action on issues like gay rights and others questioning his decision-making on sending more troops to Afghanistan. A comedy skit on "Saturday Night Live" highlighted these criticisms, with an actor portraying Obama joking about his perceived lack of accomplishments. Critics have pointed out that almost a year has passed with little to show for Obama's efforts. This criticism was heightened after he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, with even some sympathetic commentators calling it premature. During his first trip to see Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts, Obama acknowledged that progress had been made in the US economy and that healthcare reform was within reach. He reminded the audience that he never expected his work to be easy and joked about unrealistic expectations from reporters. He asked why everyone hadn't done it yet, despite it being nine months since he mentioned it. He acknowledged that he never claimed it would be easy and referenced his statements during the campaign. I mentioned that change can be difficult, especially when it is a significant change. Obama seemed to be referencing Republicans who are against Democratic healthcare plans, accusing them of hindering progress. He stated that he is determined to continue making changes and then addressed the question of why some people dislike him. The town-hall meeting highlighted the political divide in America, as evidenced by the reaction to Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal being introduced by Democratic Obama. Some in the crowd booed until Obama calmed them down and praised Jindal as a dedicated politician. Towards the end of the event, a young student named Terence Scott asked Obama why people hate him, to which Obama responded by pointing out that not everyone hates him since he was elected president and received many votes. Obama commented that recently, it appears that everyone is constantly becoming angry, attributing this trend to political climate and Americans' worries about job security and healthcare. He acknowledged that during challenging times, blame is inevitable, but stated that he can handle it. | 2 |
An expert, Richard Lord, who specializes in insurance claims and has observed Oxfam's mock climate tribunal, stated that insurance companies have the potential to encourage more environmentally friendly behavior. Lord emphasized that insurers have the ability to drive behavior change and are often more proactive in dealing with climate change compared to governments. He noted that industries are more aware of climate change and have taken more responsible actions due to pressure from their shareholders. Lord, who works at Brick Court Chambers in London, mentioned that insurance companies are facing pressure from activists and regulators regarding the issue. He highlighted that the companies are taking this matter seriously, especially after dealing with claims from Hurricane Katrina victims. Lord emphasized that insurance companies are vigilant about understanding and managing all potential risks involved. Lord stated that insurance companies are actively interested in comprehending the risks associated with climate change and litigation in order to fully grasp the implications. He explained that if a homeowner has to pay higher insurance premiums for a house located in a flood-prone area, they are likely to question the reasoning behind it. Lord emphasized that insurers gather detailed information to better understand risks, which can impact people's behavior. He also noted that the insurance industry, being larger than oil, gas, or other major sectors, could have a significant influence globally. "In fact, it is the economic power of insurers that largely supports a vast amount of commercial activity." The commercial litigator who came to observe the tribunal was hesitant to comment on the issue due to his lack of knowledge of Bangladesh laws. He emphasized that he was not an environmental or human rights lawyer and mentioned that litigation was a tool to address climate change, albeit a blunt one. Lord noted that as the problem of climate change worsens and many fail to recognize its consequences, people will seek different ways to tackle it. He found it intriguing that the atmospheric trust litigation, which he described as still in its infancy, draws upon ancient principles that have been traditionally applied to natural assets like water, considering them essential to society and protected by the government. Lord mentioned that he was not aware of any climate litigation cases. He pointed out that many countries include the right to a clean environment in their constitutions either directly or indirectly through human rights references. He also noted that while the issues in Bangladesh are emotionally moving, they lack compelling evidence to establish cause and effect scientifically. Therefore, he explained that without strong scientific evidence, it would be difficult to turn a mock tribunal into a real tribunal, as it raises complex issues. He mentioned that in a hypothetical legal scenario, the defendant, such as the Bangladesh government, could argue that they are already taking sufficient measures to combat climate change by pointing out their low carbon footprint compared to other nations. On the other hand, a developed country could deflect any blame by stating they have developed similarly to Bangladesh. He expressed uncertainty about how Bangladesh could bring a case against a country like the United States. Due to this difficulty, people have been indirectly addressing the issue by blocking permits, obtaining injunctions, or requesting environmental impact assessments, which are also leading to positive changes. | 2 |
Yatri Motorcycles, a startup, has launched sleek e-motorbikes in an effort to persuade Nepalis to switch to electric vehicles. The company believes that transitioning to electric vehicles can help clean up Nepal's polluted air, save money, reduce petrol imports, and assist in achieving the country's climate goals. Founder Ashim Pandey stated that it is inevitable for the world to switch to electric vehicles as battery technology advances. Countries around the world are working on developing affordable, low-emission vehicles as more nations plan to ban the sale of new fossil fuel-powered cars in order to combat global warming. Despite Nepal's pledge in the 2015 Paris Agreement to have 20% of its vehicles be electric by 2020, only 1% currently are, according to the Climate Action Tracker website. Nepal, despite being a small carbon emitter globally, is experiencing a rise in emissions due to increased imports of petrol and diesel vehicles and fossil fuel consumption. The government has ambitious plans to transition to e-vehicles through incentives such as reduced taxes and customs duties on imports and the installation of more charging stations. However, progress has been slow, even though there is a pledge for e-vehicles to make up 90% of all private passenger vehicle sales by 2030. Currently, Nepal has approximately 700 electric cars, 5,000 electric scooters, and 40,000 electric rickshaws, as reported by the Electric Vehicle Association of Nepal. Established in 2017, WORLD-CLASS Yatri Motorcycles was founded with the goal of creating top-quality electric vehicles in Nepal. Pandey, the founder, expressed the company's intention to expand beyond Nepal and begin exporting advanced technology and capital goods, moving away from traditional handicrafts. With a background in aerospace engineering and experience designing hydrogen-powered race cars, Pandey has a 10-year plan that began in 2019 with Project Zero, a high-end motorbike featuring modern technology such as a digital dashboard, 4G connectivity, keyless start, a 240km range, and a top speed of 140km/h that can recharge in just two hours. It surpasses the majority of two-wheelers available in the market, which are manufactured in China and India and have a lower range and speed, but are priced at almost 2,000,000 Nepalese rupees ($16,797) - nearly seven times the cost of a petrol motorbike. Yatri introduced a more budget-friendly model, Project One, priced at 500,000 rupees in April, which resulted in 50 orders in just a week. Pandey mentioned that the initial price will decrease as they increase production. They are on track to achieve their goal of selling 200 units in 2021. Motorcycles are crucial in the transition to e-vehicles as they make up 80% of Nepal's registered vehicles, offering commuters a cheaper alternative to the country's overcrowded and chaotic public buses, according to government data. However, electric motorbikes alone will not be enough to reduce carbon emissions in Nepal's transportation sector. According to government data from 2011, the biggest sources of emissions are trucks at 29%, cars and vans at 26%, and buses at 19%, with two-wheelers accounting for only 8%. Yatri's long-term objective is to introduce electric vans and buses for fleet operators by the end of the decade. Addressing the issue of space is crucial in solving the challenges faced by modern cities, as a well-designed and efficient public transportation system will play a key role in improving urban mobility. Nepal has a history of trying out e-vehicles, such as trolleybuses and Safa Tempos, but they were unsuccessful due to mismanagement and inefficient batteries. The government now plans to bring back electric vehicles by purchasing 300 electric buses. One major obstacle to increasing e-vehicle sales is the lack of charging stations, according to Manish Pandey, a YouTuber who travels around Nepal on a motorbike. Despite planning to film a long-distance trip on an e-scooter six months ago, the 23-year-old had to cancel his plans. He stated that he was unable to complete the journey because there were no charging stations along the route and electric vehicles have limited range. He added that he would not choose to ride an electric motorbike due to the current lack of charging stations. Additionally, he mentioned the high cost of electric vehicles as a significant barrier to persuading regular motorcyclists to switch to environmentally friendly options. He noted that in a country like Nepal, where environmental awareness is low and people prioritize price over eco-friendly technology, convincing customers to go green is challenging. | 2 |
South Africa has called on Zimbabwe to uphold the rule of law and the rights of opposition leaders following international concern over the treatment of detained Zimbabwean opposition figures by the police. Deputy Foreign Minister Aziz Pahad expressed South Africa's concern and urged the Zimbabwean government to ensure the respect of rights for all citizens and political leaders. Pahad also appealed to opposition leaders to work towards a peaceful resolution to the current challenges in Zimbabwe. South Africa, as the region's economic powerhouse, has traditionally pursued a policy of "quiet diplomacy" towards President Robert Mugabe, believing that public confrontation could be counterproductive. The leader of the Opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), Morgan Tsvangirai, along with many others, was arrested on Sunday for trying to protest against Mugabe's leadership. Tsvangirai and the rest of those arrested appeared in court on Tuesday, but were quickly taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries reportedly obtained while in police custody. Pahad stated that South Africa would continue to collaborate with all parties in Zimbabwe to ensure that the goal of dialogue among political groups is achieved. | 2 |
Greenpeace has urged India to ban incandescent light bulbs and switch to more energy efficient options in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by four percent. India is currently one of the top five polluters in the world, alongside the United States, China, Russia, and Japan. Experts predict that India's carbon emissions will triple by 2050 due to rapid economic development and population growth, making it crucial for the country to focus on becoming more energy efficient. One way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is by replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), which use less energy and can cut emissions by four percent. Experts warn that unchecked emissions could lead to a rise in temperatures between 1.8 and 4.0 degrees Celsius in the 21st century. The Indian subcontinent is expected to be heavily impacted by global warming, leading to more frequent and severe natural disasters, increased disease, and hunger. CFLs may be more expensive than traditional incandescent bulbs, but they use 80 percent less energy, saving households and industries money. In India, approximately 20 percent of electricity is used for lighting, and switching to CFLs could help meet the country's growing power needs. Australia was the first country to announce in February that it would ban light bulbs, with plans to phase them out within three years. Environmentalists have raised concerns about the mercury content in CFLs, warning that improper disposal could pose serious health risks due to the toxicity of the heavy metal. Despite these concerns, global demand for CFLs is still relatively low, making up only 10 percent of the world's market share for light sources. Greenpeace noted that India currently uses 640 million incandescent light bulbs annually, while only 12 million CFLs are in use. | 2 |
In spite of significant economic reforms and a willingness to embrace social change, the party has shown zero tolerance for criticism, with leader Nguyen Phu Trong cracking down on dissent and activists since his re-election in 2016. According to a spokesperson for Amnesty, at least 16 individuals have been arrested, detained, or convicted this year for posting anti-government content on Facebook, while 12 political prisoners are currently incarcerated on similar charges. Pham Van Diep, a 54-year-old activist from Thanh Hoa province, was sentenced to nine years in prison for spreading false information that defamed the Communist Party and Vietnamese government, as reported by the Vietnam News Agency. The agency stated that Diep also disseminated misleading information about the country's policies, leading to misunderstandings among Facebook users and residents regarding the party and government. The posts were shared on social media between April 2014 and June 2019. In 2016, he was imprisoned for 21 months in Laos for spreading anti-Vietnamese material. Diep is the third person to be jailed this month, following a music teacher who was sentenced to 11 years in prison on Nov. 15 for similar anti-government posts on Facebook, and a 38-year-old man who was jailed for broadcasting 33 live video sessions encouraging people to protest during national holidays. In a separate incident, a 54-year-old architect was jailed for a year last month for posting anti-government content on Facebook. Facebook is widely used in Vietnam for both e-commerce and political expression. It was reported in May that the amount of restricted content in Vietnam had increased more than six times in the second half of 2018. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch called on Hanoi to stop cracking down on an independent publisher and criticized the limitations on freedom of speech that result in people being arrested and imprisoned for expressing their opinions. The groups stated on Wednesday that this crackdown has intensified the atmosphere of fear in Vietnam. | 2 |
The Venerable Ambalangoda Sumedhananda Thero, the abbot, appeared unfazed by the explosion as he brushed aside the mosquitoes in the night air of Gintota, a town in southern Sri Lanka. He continued to express his strong opinions, claiming that Muslims were violent and rapacious, and accusing them of attempting to take over Buddhist lands. He cited examples such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kashmir, and Indonesia as places that had been destroyed by Islam. Shortly after, a monastic assistant informed him that a Molotov cocktail had been thrown at a mosque nearby. The abbot waved his hand dismissively and indicated that his primary focus was on the Buddhist population in Sri Lanka, not the minority Muslim community. A protest in Yangon, Myanmar on October 14, 2017, organized by a Buddhist monk in support of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's response to the Rohingya crisis, highlighted the growing trend of militant tribalism among Buddhists who see themselves as spiritual defenders against external threats. Motivated by influential charismatic monks like Sumedhananda Thero, Buddhists have transitioned into a period of militant tribalism, viewing themselves as spiritual fighters obligated to protect their religion from external threats. Despite being the dominant majority in countries like Sri Lanka and Myanmar, where a strong religious-nationalist movement is prevalent, some Buddhists, particularly those following the Theravada tradition, believe they are facing an existential danger, particularly from extremist factions within Islam. As Buddhism and Islam intersect, some Buddhists are straying from the peaceful principles of their faith. In recent years, there have been instances of Buddhist groups launching violent assaults on minority Muslim communities. Nationalist Buddhist leaders are leveraging the influence of radical monks to gain backing. Mohammed Naseer, the imam of the Hillur Mosque in Gintota, Sri Lanka, which was targeted by Buddhist mobs in 2017, noted, "Buddhists used to not harbor such animosity towards us. Now, their monks are preaching a message that we are unwelcome in this nation and should depart." "But where can we possibly go? This is our residence." In Sri Lanka last month, a prominent Buddhist monk went on a hunger strike, leading to the resignation of all nine Muslim ministers in the Cabinet. The monk implied that Muslim politicians were involved in the Easter Sunday attacks by Islamic State-affiliated militants on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka, resulting in over 250 casualties. Monks are seen praying in the Bengala monastery in Yangon, Myanmar, on October 4, 2017. Inspired by a politically influential group of charismatic monks, Buddhists have transitioned into a period of militant tribalism, viewing themselves as spiritual fighters who must safeguard their religion against an external threat. In Myanmar, a majority of the population's Muslims have been forced to leave due to ethnic cleansing, yet Buddhist monks continue to warn of an Islamic threat, despite Muslims making up less than 5% of the country's population. During Ramadan in May, Buddhist mobs attacked Islamic prayer halls, causing worshippers to flee. Inspired by influential monks, Buddhists are now embracing a militant tribalism, viewing themselves as spiritual warriors defending their faith. Buddhism is typically seen as peaceful, but this recent aggression challenges that perception. However, no religion can claim to be the sole source of peace. Even Buddhists have been known to engage in warfare. According to anthropologist Mikael Gravers of Aarhus University in Denmark, Buddhist monks may denounce violence but also believe in defending Buddhism or Buddhist nations by any means necessary. In Myanmar, for example, thousands of people gathered in Yangon in May to hear Ashin Wirathu, a Buddhist monk known for his hate speech and praise for the nation's military. This has led to the mass exodus of over 700,000 Rohingya refugees to Bangladesh since August 2017. The army and its allies conducted a campaign of ethnic cleansing, with Buddhist mobs and security forces targeting Rohingya Muslims with violence including slaughter, rape, and the destruction of many villages. Ashin Wirathu, who has rejected the nonviolent teachings of Buddhism, praised military-linked lawmakers and claimed that only the military can protect the country and religion. He also criticized the International Criminal Court for pursuing a case against Myanmar's military for their treatment of the Rohingya. In another incident, a Sri Lankan Buddhist showed respect to Sitagu Sayadaw, a revered Buddhist leader in Myanmar. Motivated by influential monks, Buddhists have transitioned into a period of militant tribalism, viewing themselves as spiritual soldiers tasked with protecting their religion from external threats. The monk Ashin Wirathu even declared that he would take up arms if the ICC were to intervene. Monks such as Ashin Wirathu are on the extreme end of Buddhist nationalism, but there are also respected clerics involved. At 82 years old, the highly influential monk Ashin Nyanissara, also known as Sitagu Sayadaw, made controversial statements about Muslims in front of army officers. He believes the army and monkhood are closely connected and has shown support for the military, even being pictured with soldiers on a Facebook page. Sitagu Sayadaw has dedicated his followers to the national cause as a form of sacrifice. He informed the commander of Myanmar's armed forces that there are more than 400,000 monks in Myanmar and if needed, he could instruct them to take action. Sitagu Sayadaw, a highly respected figure, has a significant influence on people, and his comments can fuel hatred. Following the Easter Sunday attacks in Sri Lanka, Buddhist nationalists felt their warnings about the threat of Muslim extremists had been validated. Dilanthe Withanage, a senior administrator for Bodu Bala Sena, expressed concerns about national security due to these extremists. Withanage accused the government of bearing responsibility for disregarding the rise of radical Islam. Following a period of moderate coalition rule, Sri Lanka is experiencing a resurgence of a combination of religious belief and tribalism. The main advocate of this movement is Gotabaya Rajapaksa, a former defense chief and the frontrunner for the upcoming presidential elections. Rajapaksa has promised to safeguard the country's Buddhist heritage and is focused on rebuilding Sri Lanka's security apparatus that was established during the lengthy civil war with the Tamil minority. From 2005 to 2015, Sri Lanka was under the leadership of Mahinda Rajapaksa, the brother of Rajapaksa, who was known for his strong nationalist beliefs. He defended the violent end to the civil war by positioning himself as a spiritual savior for the nation. Temples displayed images of the Rajapaksa brothers, and money was funneled to extremist Buddhist groups that supported sectarian violence resulting in the deaths of Muslims. One of the founders of Bodu Bala Sena, a Buddhist extremist group, received valuable land in Colombo for a Buddhist cultural center. The national telecom service even included Bodu Bala Sena's theme song in its collection of ringtones. Last year, Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero, the leader of Bodu Bala Sena, was sentenced to six years in prison. However, in late May, he was granted a presidential pardon due to changing political circumstances. On Sunday, he led a meeting of numerous monks who aimed to have an impact on the upcoming elections. Prior to his imprisonment, Gnanasara Thero emphasized the historical significance of their campaign, stating, "We have been the protectors of Buddhism for 2,500 years." "It is now our responsibility, like the monks in Myanmar, to defend our tranquil island from Islam." ©2019 New York Times News Service. | 2 |
In 2016, Freeport-McMoRan, a mining company based in Arizona, made a deal to sell a site in Congo that is significant in China's control of the global cobalt supply. Cobalt is a crucial raw material for electric car batteries and plays a key role in transitioning away from fossil fuels. Perriello, a high-ranking US diplomat in Africa at the time, raised concerns within the State Department. Kapanga, the Congolese general manager of the mine, pleaded with the American ambassador in Congo to intervene, warning that the decision was a mistake and could jeopardize years of relationship building with Congo, a major source of cobalt for the world. Presidents from Dwight D Eisenhower onwards provided significant financial aid to the mineral-rich nation, including military equipment and transport planes. Richard Nixon and the State Department, led by Hillary Clinton, worked to maintain this relationship. Freeport-McMoRan also invested billions in the nation before selling the mine to a Chinese company. The Chinese company, China Molybdenum, successfully purchased the Tenke Fungurume mine during the Obama administration and later acquired another cobalt reserve from Freeport-McMoRan during the Trump presidency. China's strategy to acquire Congo's cobalt resources has given it a significant advantage over the United States in the race to dominate the automotive industry's electrification. The New York Times investigation uncovered a history of cobalt acquisitions in which the United States effectively handed over resources to China, neglecting to protect years of diplomatic and financial investments in Congo. Perriello, who has since left government, was aware of the plan to sell Tenke Fungurume in 2016 and believed that American ownership would benefit both the United States and the people of Congo, despite the owner's questionable track record in other countries. Freeport-McMoRan received positive feedback for its operations in Congo, employing many locals and investing in schools, healthcare, and water supply. Perriello sought advice on how to maintain American control of the mine from Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who was an assistant secretary of state at the time. Despite efforts to keep the mine under American ownership, Chinese companies were the only serious bidders, highlighting the importance of taking action. "They were able to move swiftly and more quickly than anyone else could," stated Kathleen L Quirk, president of Freeport-McMoRan, in an interview. "As a result, we were able to finalize the deal." Freeport-McMoRan was determined to sell due to their significant losses in the oil and gas industry and the shift towards renewable energy. With mounting debt, the company had no choice but to sell its Congo operations. The American reaction was minimal, as it was simply a financial transaction. The country lacks control over transactions conducted by American companies overseas. The crisis, which revealed significant gaps in the understanding of US leaders, presented an opportunity that the Chinese government is skilled at seizing, as revealed by newly discovered documents, emails, and interviews with various individuals in China, Congo, and the United States. In the past year, with the acceleration of the clean energy transition, both the US government and private sector have been working quickly to rectify past errors by seeking out new sources of cobalt and using cobalt-free batteries in certain electric vehicles. However, these efforts pale in comparison to China's aggressive moves to dominate critical resources for a green future, such as cobalt and lithium. Nixon engaged in Cold War gamesmanship as he stood outside the White House with the first lady one morning in August 1970. President Mobutu Sese Seko of Zaire was preparing to visit, marking a decade since the country gained independence from Belgium and became Congo. With abundant natural resources at his disposal, Mobutu held significant global influence. He not only controlled these resources but also served as a crucial intermediary for the United States in its efforts to prevent the Soviet Union from expanding its influence in Africa. Securing access to minerals and metals in Congo had been a priority for the United States dating back to World War II, with Albert Einstein even writing to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1939 urging him to stockpile Congolese uranium for the first atomic bombs. By the mid-1960s, the CIA had established one of its largest operations in the country, funding a group of mercenaries and Congolese soldiers. They conducted missions with US warplanes to combat rebels supported by the Soviet Union. Mobutu, who would later become a corrupt dictator, viewed the Americans as a valuable ally in expanding the country's mining industry. In an effort to develop Tenke Fungurume, he approached a well-known New York diamond merchant named Maurice Tempelsman for mining rights, as revealed in declassified cables. However, just before his trip to Washington in August 1970, Mobutu surprised many by announcing that he had chosen a Belgian company to develop the mine. Washington entered a state of emergency as it attempted to regain control of the situation, displaying extreme generosity. American diplomat Herman J Cohen remembered President Nixon instructing his administration to give Mobutu whatever he desired. The US had already provided hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to Mobutu, and Nixon agreed to give him multiple C-130 transport planes. The climax of the campaign occurred at a formal dinner for Mobutu at the White House, according to Cohen. After the meal, Tempelsman took Mobutu on a private boat trip on the Potomac. News quickly spread that the Americans were going to receive the mining concession. Mark Mollison, a mining engineer from New York City, got into a Toyota Land Cruiser in southeastern Congo to visit Tenke Fungurume, which was now an abandoned construction site. Mollison was impressed by what he saw. He observed hillsides with patches of exposed earth where copper and cobalt were visible. Mollison remembered that the ore was much more valuable than what they had been mining in Arizona. In the late 1990s, Mollison was part of a new group of mining executives who had come to take over after the Tempelsman group had to abandon their efforts due to various obstacles, including rebels who disrupted transportation of the minerals. Kissinger, as secretary of state, helped draft a message of apology to the Congolese government in 1976, expressing regret for the project being put on hold. Years after Mobutu was removed from power, interest in the region was sparked once again. Rebel leader Laurent-Désiré Kabila had taken control of valuable land near Tenke and Fungurume, where the mine was located. This led to speculation that Congo was experiencing a new beginning. Western mining executives and their Wall Street bankers descended on the area, meeting at a hotel where Kabila's representatives secured financial commitments for mining access. A banker's memo summarized Kabila's perspective as "Rules of the game: you give and I give." Lundin Group, a Canadian mining company, was so determined to finalize a deal that it agreed to provide $50 million to the rebels. When Mollison arrived several months later, his task was to assess whether his company, now known as Freeport-McMoRan, should collaborate with Lundin to continue the work started by Tempelsman at Tenke Fungurume. Freeport-McMoRan later promoted this project as the largest private investment ever in Congo. Mollison wondered what the area would require, mentioning electric power. There was a large amount of roads and water available at the mine. Freeport-McMoRan acquired a majority stake of 57.75%, Lundin received 24.75%, and Gécamines held onto 17.5%. Despite facing another civil war in Congo in 2007, the project began in full swing by the end of the year. Freeport-McMoRan engaged in an extensive construction project, including building a highway for exporting cobalt and copper to other parts of Africa and refurbishing a hydroelectric plant at a cost of $215 million. Pierrot Kitobo Sambisaya, a metallurgist at the mine, described the company's efforts as impressive. Freeport-McMoRan successfully developed one of the most advanced and efficient cobalt and copper mines globally. Freeport-McMoRan made a major mistake by expanding into fossil fuels, spending $20 billion to acquire two oil and gas companies in 2012. When oil prices dropped, the company faced significant debt and had to sell Tenke Fungurume for $2.65 billion to China Molybdenum in May 2016. CEO Richard Adkerson expressed regret over the decision. The executives at the mine, including Kapanga, who also had experience as a Congolese presidential adviser and diplomat, were troubled by the news. Kapanga contacted the American ambassador, James Swan, expressing concern that the United States was letting go of its significant investment in Congo by allowing issues at Tenke Fungurume mine to persist. Swan declined to comment when approached by The New York Times. American diplomats in Congo were focused on urging President Joseph Kabila to step down at that time. He assumed control after his father's assassination in 2001 and proceeded to steal millions of dollars from the public treasury over the next 15 years. Despite the lack of attention in the United States, the sale of Tenke Fungurume was completed in November 2016. President Trump's administration showed interest in countering China's control over mineral supplies, particularly cobalt, following the sale of Tenke Fungurume. Nevertheless, history repeated itself as Freeport-McMoRan still possessed an undeveloped site with a significant source of cobalt, known as Kisanfu. Despite the company's announcement to sell the site, there was little to no response from the US government, which was concerning to Nazak Nikakhtar, the former Commerce Department assistant secretary responsible for monitoring critical mineral supplies. The sale to China Molybdenum for $550 million proceeded as planned, just before Trump's presidency ended. The final significant American investment in Congo's cobalt and copper mines disappeared with it. | 2 |
Police took Disha Ravi from her home in Bengaluru to Delhi for questioning regarding her involvement in sharing a document during the protests near the Indian capital. Ravi was arrested in connection with a sedition case related to a "toolkit" for helping farmers, which could result in life imprisonment. Following a court order for her to be held for questioning for five days, there was widespread criticism on social media and among farm unions. Shashi Tharoor, a member of parliament from the Congress party, stated that Ravi's arrest is part of India's efforts to suppress free speech and political dissent during the ongoing farmer protests. Ravi was unavailable for comment while in custody, and her family could not be reached immediately. Police have been cracking down on farmer protests near Delhi, especially after the incident at the Red Fort last month. Activists planned protests nationwide against Ravi's detention, with the hashtag #IndiabeingSilenced trending on Twitter. Ravi is a leader of the Indian branch of Thunberg's Fridays for Future movement, which aims to raise awareness about climate change. Thunberg had shared a "toolkit" created by demonstrators to help support the farmers. The global support for the protests against farm reforms has increased, as pop star Rihanna and activist Meena Harris, who is the niece of US Vice-President Kamala Harris, have brought attention to the ongoing campaign. Meena Harris recently mentioned the arrest of Ravi and shared a Twitter thread highlighting the targeting of activists in India. India's government argues that the reforms aim to modernize the country's outdated agriculture produce markets and blames external influences for misguiding the farmers. | 2 |
The election is the junta's first major test of popularity since Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha took power in a coup in 2014, where he has suppressed political activity for two years. Polls showed a slight lead for accepting the new constitution, but most voters were undecided. Polling stations closed at 1600 local time (0500 ET), with preliminary results expected at around 2100 local time (1000 ET). Election Commission chairman Supachai Somcharoen said voting was orderly across all areas. The junta claims that the constitution is meant to address over ten years of divisive politics in Thailand, which has harmed economic growth and resulted in numerous deaths during civil unrest. Critics, including major political parties, believe that the constitution is intended to solidify the military's political influence for the long term. Prayuth has stated that he will not step down if the constitution is rejected and that an election will be held next year regardless of the outcome. "I encourage everyone to participate in the voting process to determine the country's future," Prayuth stated to reporters after voting at a polling station in northwest Bangkok on Sunday. Approximately 200,000 police officers were deployed for the election. Boonyakiat Rakchartcharoen, deputy secretary-general of the Election Commission, stated that out of 21 cases of voters tearing ballot papers, some were intentional while others were accidental. In the northeastern province of Chaiyaphum, two students were arrested and charged for distributing leaflets urging voters to oppose the referendum, according to police. The junta, also known as the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), prohibited discussions about the constitution and campaigning in the lead-up to the vote. Several individuals, including politicians and student activists, have been arrested and charged for speaking out against the referendum. Jatuporn Prompan, chairman of the anti-government United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship group, criticized the conditions under which the referendum was held. Jatuporn criticized the Constitution Drafting Committee and NCPO for organizing a referendum in a fearful atmosphere in the kingdom. The vote is taking place amid concerns about the health of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, 88, with the military often citing its duty to protect the revered monarch as a justification for its involvement in politics. Critics argue that the current charter is the military's way of trying to eliminate former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his populist movement from Thai politics, following the 2006 coup that ousted him. Thaksin, who now lives in self-imposed exile, continues to wield significant influence, particularly among his rural supporters in the north. His sister Yingluck won a landslide victory in the 2011 elections, but her government was removed in the 2014 coup led by Prayuth. Yingluck, who was banned from politics for five years in January 2015 for mismanaging a rice scheme, also cast her vote on Sunday. She expressed her happiness at being able to exercise her rights as a Thai citizen. Thaksin criticized the new charter, calling it a mistake that would only strengthen the junta's power and hinder governance in Thailand. Interviews with military officials revealed their goal to prevent future coups by diminishing political parties and giving the military a role in the country's development. According to the constitution, which would be Thailand's 20th since the military ended an absolute monarchy in 1932, a Senate appointed by the junta and including military commanders would oversee the powers of elected officials. "I want the country to improve," said farmer Thongyoon Khaenkhaomeng at a polling station in a school in the northeastern city of Khon Kaen. He voted in favor of the constitution in hopes of ending Thailand's divisions. Nearby, voters lined up to vote at the reconstructed city hall, which was destroyed during political unrest in 2010. Day laborer Decha Shangkamanee stated he voted against the constitution because he disapproved of the junta, but did not believe the referendum would have much impact. He stated that he is aware that there will be no significant changes in the way the country is governed today. | 2 |
Kolkata's red-brick secretariat, constructed over 200 years ago for the East India Company, continues to harbor distrust towards foreign merchants. Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, has been occupying the building for a year now and is seen as a major hurdle to economic reforms that would open up India's consumer markets to modern traders. Supporters, who fondly refer to her as "Didi" or "Big Sister", view Banerjee as a hero who ended communist rule in West Bengal and protects farmers and shopkeepers from the negative impacts of globalization, while positioning West Bengal as a key economic and cultural hub in India and Southeast Asia. However, due to a series of unpredictable actions, such as the arrest of a professor for sharing a joke email about her, critics now view her as a potential autocrat. India Today magazine has even dubbed her the "Queen of Democrazy". Banerjee's controversial behavior and dissatisfaction with her leadership in West Bengal could lead to a quick end to her popularity among voters. Additionally, she relies on the central government to help resolve West Bengal's debt crisis. These circumstances provide Prime Minister Manmohan Singh with an opportunity to outsmart someone who, despite being a coalition partner, has been a hindrance to much-needed economic reforms. India's impressive economic growth has decreased in the past year, leading to significant increases in its current account and budget deficits. However, the central government's efforts to implement crisis-alleviating policies have been hindered by its coalition partners, particularly Banerjee's Trinamool Congress party. According to Bengali political analyst Amulya Ganguli, Banerjee may be changing her approach as she is now "on the back foot" due to her previous actions. Ganguli believes that Banerjee may be realizing the importance of acting responsibly and not rejecting all proposals. A weakened Banerjee could potentially make it easier for Singh's government to push through reform, as their popularity has decreased due to corruption scandals and high inflation. Despite her humble beginnings, Banerjee was recently named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people in the world. She was visited by Hillary Clinton, who praised her political achievements and discussed potential US investment in Indian ports. However, Banerjee made it clear in an interview with Reuters that she remains opposed to foreign supermarkets such as Wal-Mart operating in India. She expressed her support for private investment in job creation in sectors like tourism, industrial projects, and hospitals, but emphasized her opposition to policies that lead to job losses for farmers and small retailers. Dressed in a white saree, she stated that there are limits to her actions, and she will not support measures that result in unemployment. She also made it clear that she will continue to resist any attempts to increase heavily subsidised fuel and rail fares. This stance is concerning for Prime Minister Singh, as his inability to address deficits and economic slowdown has damaged his reputation as the driving force behind reforms that modernized India's economy two decades ago. "They are only discussing price increases for the common people, you must consider other options as well. You should explore different ways to develop your business and find additional funding," stated Banerjee, whose 19 MPs provide a majority for Singh's Congress party in parliament. Despite being unmarried and still residing in her family's tin-roofed house in a Kolkata slum, Banerjee is dealing with her own financial difficulties in the state government. This situation could potentially give Singh more influence over his stalled reform plans. With India's highest state debt of nearly $40 billion, largely left behind by her communist predecessors who governed until last year's elections, Banerjee is struggling to cover teachers' salaries and is requesting a three-year moratorium from the central government. Despite her ownership of an iPad, Banerjee is inspired by the frugal values of Indian independence icon Mahatma Gandhi. She proudly states that she does not accept a government salary or benefits such as a car and housing. Despite her personal austerity, she has hired around 90,000 new teachers and police officers, despite the state's debts. The cost has raised some concerns, but her finance minister, Amit Mitra, believes it is nominal due to low wages. Mitra, a former head of India's FICCI, stated that the state's tax revenue increased by 20 percent last year mainly due to enforcement efforts. Kolkata, formerly Calcutta, was once a thriving intellectual and industrial capital under British rule. Today, it is compared to Havana, with its faded tropical grandeur and old-fashioned taxis. Banerjee wants to bring back the former glory of the state by modernizing the city to compete with London. She has invited companies to help with projects like building a 'Kolkata Eye' ferris wheel. Critics have questioned her projects like painting bridges blue and installing ornamental street lights, but officials say they are cost-effective. Despite some disappointment with her efforts to improve the investment climate, there are signs of change like new flyovers, airport terminals, and the growth of middle-class apartments and office buildings. Banerjee, inspired by Rabindranath Tagore, is a painter and poet with her own creative vision. However, some critics highlight a negative aspect of this individual, who does not seem to tolerate opposing views. As a demonstration of her influence, she recently compelled the prime minister to dismiss his railway minister, a member of her own party, after he announced in parliament that rail fares would be increasing. Dinesh Trivedi, the former minister, stated from his residence in New Delhi that "When I announced the increase in fares, everyone thumped the desk," but shortly after, he was asked to resign. The fare increase was deemed necessary by unions and economists to aid in funding the modernization of a railway network that hinders economic growth due to its overcrowded trains and outdated infrastructure. In April, Ambikesh Mahapatra, a 52-year-old chemistry professor, forwarded an email that mocked Banerjee's handling of Trivedi. Police arrested him for allegedly committing 'cyber crimes' after a group of people confronted and assaulted him. Mahapatra expressed surprise at facing legal consequences, stating that he now feels fearful due to the government's lack of remorse. Mahapatra's approach caused a strong reaction. Banerjee, who was previously hospitalized for several months after being attacked by Communist attackers, was able to defeat the leftists in part by speaking out against the culture of political violence in West Bengal. Critics now question whether things have truly changed. According to Dwaipayan Bhattacharyya of the Centre for Studies in Social Sciences, Calcutta, Banerjee's current policy seems to be to support infrastructure projects while cracking down on protesters. He believes she has no tolerance for any form of disagreement. Bhattacharyya stated that the educated middle classes, who originally supported Banerjee's defeat of the left, have been turned off by her actions. Banerjee denied allegations of being autocratic and claimed that the campaign against her was orchestrated by the communists she had removed from power. Despite this, violence has decreased since she took office. Anand Sharma, the minister behind the plan to open up India's retail sector, has faced obstacles in achieving his goals, but there may be a shift in the near future. A senior government adviser, speaking anonymously, suggested that Banerjee's reputation as a dragon slayer is diminishing with the recent arrest of a scientist. "Maybe that provides Anand with some additional space, we will find out." | 2 |
According to political experts, the death of Cuban political prisoner Orlando Zapata Tamayo after an 85-day hunger strike may have dashed hopes for improved US-Cuba relations in the near future. His death, a result of protesting prison conditions, further strained tensions already heightened by the arrest of an American contractor in Cuba. This has made it more difficult for diplomatic and legislative efforts to enhance ties with the island. Marifeli Perez-Stable, a Cuba analyst at Florida International University in Miami, stated that progress in US-Cuba relations is currently uncertain. Zapata's death led to strong reactions in Washington, with opponents of communist Cuba emphasizing the need to not appease President Raul Castro's government by lifting the trade embargo, a key element of US-Cuba policy. Republican Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Florida urged a renewed commitment to ensuring a future Cuba free of the ideology that led to Zapata's death. Zapata's death poses a challenge for those who support improving relations with Cuba, as they argue that getting closer to the island is the best way to bring about change. On the day of Zapata's death, new legislation was introduced that would lift the ban on US travel to Cuba and facilitate food trade between the two countries. Democratic Representative Jim McGovern of Massachusetts emphasized the importance of being closer to the Cuban people in order to better support them, expressing sadness and anger over Zapata's death and criticizing the Cuban government for not preventing it. Spain, currently presiding over the European Union, is encountering a similar issue. The country has been advocating for the removal of a clause from the EU's common position on Cuba, which calls for democracy and increased respect for human rights on the island. Havana views this clause as a barrier to establishing full normal relations with the 27-nation bloc. In response to pressure from Spanish media, Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, a socialist and long-time supporter of strong ties with Cuba, expressed sorrow over Zapata's death and called for the release of political prisoners and the protection of human rights in Cuba. He emphasized that this is a crucial demand of the international community. Perez-Stable stated that Zapata's death would likely end Spain's attempts to improve relations between the EU and Cuba. She mentioned that Havana should not expect the EU to lift the common position. Observers of Cuba stated that the death of the dissident was a setback for the Cuban government's diplomatic efforts to pressure the United States to end the embargo. The small dissident community in Cuba promised to increase their calls for democratic reform on the island, to ensure that Zapata's death was not in vain. On Friday, five dissidents, four of whom are currently imprisoned, announced hunger strikes to demand the release of political prisoners. Leading dissident Oswaldo Paya stated that the death has deeply affected everyone. He emphasized that this event marks a significant turning point, and although they will not resort to violence, the government's actions are concerning for the Cuban people. | 2 |
Bloomberg has told friends and associates that he is willing to spend at least $1 billion of his own money on a campaign for the November 2016 election, according to sources familiar with his plans. The former mayor, aged 73, has set an early March deadline for deciding whether to enter the race after conducting a poll in December to assess his chances against Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, the leading Republican and Democratic candidates. While no independent has ever won a US presidential election, Bloomberg, who has ties to Wall Street and holds liberal social views, believes there is an opportunity for his candidacy if Trump or Cruz becomes the Republican nominee and Sanders becomes the Democratic nominee. Bloomberg, who has considered running for president in the past, served as mayor of New York City from 2002 to 2013. In 2007, he changed his party affiliation from Republican to independent and has since devoted significant funds to national campaigns aimed at strengthening US gun laws and revamping immigration policies. According to an unnamed adviser of Bloomberg cited in the Times, the former mayor believes that voters are seeking a pragmatic, bipartisan approach that has been missing in the current election cycle. While a well-funded presidential bid by Bloomberg could shake up the election dynamics, he would face considerable challenges entering a race that has been ongoing for almost a year. While no third-party candidate has ever won the presidency, past attempts have influenced the overall outcome of the race, such as in 1992 when Ross Perot's independent campaign is thought to have helped Bill Clinton defeat George H. W. Bush. According to the Times, Bloomberg's decision to join the race was partly influenced by his dissatisfaction with Clinton's campaign. Clinton has faced scrutiny over her honesty due to an investigation into her use of a private email server. Sanders, her main competitor, has gained momentum in Iowa and New Hampshire polls. This has raised concerns for Bloomberg about a potential general election matchup between Sanders, who identifies as a socialist, and Trump or Cruz, who have taken strong conservative stances on issues such as immigration. Bloomberg's representatives were unavailable for immediate comment. | 2 |
“We are moving too quickly,” remarked conservative legislator Jean-Pierre Door, who represents a constituency filled with frustrated citizens. The town of Montargis experienced a surge of unrest three years ago during the Yellow Vest movement, sparked by a rise in gasoline taxes but fueled by a broader sense of disillusionment felt by those living on the outskirts of France. This uprising highlighted a class division, pitting working-class individuals threatened by the shift to clean energy against affluent urbanites, particularly in Paris, who have the means to adopt eco-friendly practices. While global discussions on climate change take place in Glasgow, the economic and political disconnect that led to turmoil in France still lingers beneath the surface. Although many in rural areas acknowledge the necessity of transitioning to clean energy, financial struggles remain a pressing concern. While COP26 focuses on the urgency of saving the planet, the immediate worry here is making ends meet before the month's end. In just the past month alone, household gas prices have increased by 12.6%, partly due to shortages caused by the coronavirus. People who were once encouraged to buy fuel-efficient diesel cars now find electric cars to be unaffordably expensive. Retired couples living near a wind turbine are concerned about the impact on property values. A resident near Montargis suggested that Parisians should consider installing wind turbines in the Bois de Vincennes park instead. President Emmanuel Macron is facing a delicate issue as he navigates the transition to clean energy ahead of the upcoming election in April. He has presented himself as an environmentally conscious fighter, although practical, but is aware that any involvement in the Yellow Vests protests would harm his chances in the election. Every morning, Cannault looks out from her farmhouse near town at a newly constructed 390-foot mast used to measure wind levels for potential turbines. She expressed frustration that they were not consulted about this project. The only noises in the background as she spoke on a misty morning were the honking of geese and roosters crowing. The mayor of the neighboring village of Griselles, Claude Madec-Cleï, agreed, stating, "We are being ignored." President Macron is trying to win over the Green party. As the election approaches, Macron is reaching out to various groups and is eager to prevent a resurgence of the Yellow Vests. The government has decided to halt the increase in household gas prices. Additionally, around 6 million individuals deemed most vulnerable will receive a $115 "energy check" next month. Another 38 million people earning less than $2,310 per month will also receive an "inflation indemnity" of the same amount. These measures are primarily in response to rising gasoline prices. Sophie Tissier, the organizer of a Yellow Vest protest in Paris in 2019, expressed difficulty in reigniting the movement due to a heavy police response, despite the presence of a significant social crisis and widespread anger. She highlighted the extreme inequalities in France that hinder progress towards an ecological transition. While the president promotes the realism of his energy proposals, which include a mix of small-reactor nuclear power and renewable sources like wind power, there are differing opinions from the Green movement, who want nuclear power phased out, and Marine Le Pen, who advocates for the dismantling of wind turbines. In the midst of these debates, many French people, like Christine Gobet, find themselves caught between concerns for the planet and their immediate needs as they navigate daily challenges. Sitting in her car outside a garage after spending $3,000 to replace her diesel engine, she scoffed at the idea of switching to an electric vehicle. She believed that electric cars were not a feasible option for people like her, especially with rising costs in other areas like food. She mentioned feeling misled about the environmental impact of diesel cars, and expressed her frustration by participating in Yellow Vest protests in Montargis. She was motivated not only by financial pressures, but also by a feeling of being ignored by the elites who make decisions that impact her life. She left the movement when it turned violent. In Montargis, a traffic circle known as the "peanut roundabout" was blocked for two months, causing shortages in stores. She believes little has changed since then. In Paris, she feels that the city has everything, while the mayor, Anne Hidalgo, is focused on reducing cars in the city and disregards people from the provinces who come to work there. Working-class individuals like Gobet, who was featured in a series in Le Monde, find calls in places like Glasgow to transition away from fossil fuels and nuclear power stations to be disconnected from their everyday reality. At 58 years old, she represents a divide between generations. The younger generation, led by Greta Thunberg, believes that saving the planet is the most urgent priority. On the other side are older individuals who are concerned about environmental measures affecting their quality of life in their later years. In the area near Montargis, there is a mix of retirees looking for affordability and immigrants living on the outskirts. Gilles Fauvin, a taxi driver, mentioned that a majority of his clients require transportation for medical purposes to hospitals in Orléans and Paris. The potential impact of banning diesel cars from the capital by 2024 and the push to transition to costly electric cars could have negative consequences for him. He expressed that diesel cars are effective for him, despite their emissions. Yoann Fauvin, the garage owner and taxi driver's relative, is unsure if electric cars are truly a better alternative due to the environmental costs associated with mining metals for batteries in countries like China and Chile, transportation emissions, and battery recycling. In his presence, a vintage green 1977 Citroen 2CV was being restored and a diesel Citroen DS4 was being fixed. He mentioned that diesel is essential for his business, as the community tends to mock energy transformation. He observed that only affluent individuals opt for electric cars, showing a lack of understanding of the local situation. Magalie Pasquet, a housewife leading a group opposed to wind power in the region, clarified that her resistance to the 75 planned turbines is not a rejection of environmental issues, as she actively recycles. She is cautious when it comes to traveling. She recycles organic waste. She opts to wear two sweaters instead of increasing the heat. She is encouraged by the environmental enthusiasm of the youth. However, she feels that the world has prioritized things incorrectly. "Why are we destroying a beautiful landscape that attracts people to this area when the real issue is overconsumption?" she inquired. "Local residents are not being consulted, and even mayors are powerless to prevent the construction of these unattractive wind turbines." A colleague, Philippe Jacob, who is a professor of management and marketing and is also involved in the anti-turbine movement, noted that the Yellow Vest movement arose due to increasing gas prices, declining purchasing power, deteriorating public services, and widespread dissatisfaction with centralized decision-making. "The same issues persist today, and the situation is becoming increasingly risky," he stated. "Residents have invested their life savings here, and their concerns about the planned turbines and biogas plants are being ignored, which could lead to the destruction of the region." | 2 |
Scientists have found that the Pacific gray whale population, believed to have fully recovered from whaling, is actually only a fraction of what it used to be. By examining genetic variation in 42 gray whales, researchers determined that before 19th-century hunting began, there were about 96,000 gray whales in the Pacific Ocean. This means that the current population of 22,000 whales is only 19 to 29 percent of the pre-hunting population. The gray whale, a large baleen whale known as a "filter feeder," has been swimming in the world's oceans for around 20 million years. Researchers have found that the gray whale population has recovered significantly from whaling, but genetic diversity indicates that there were once many more gray whales in the Pacific Ocean. At one point, the gray whale population was nearly extinct, with only a few thousand remaining by the late 19th century and into the 1920s. The gray whale has been absent from the Atlantic Ocean for many years, possibly due to whaling activities. This species migrates along the Pacific Coast of North America, traveling between arctic waters and the lagoons near Baja California in Mexico. Named for the gray patches and white markings on its dark skin, these whales can grow up to 46 feet long and weigh as much as 40 tonnes. They primarily feed by scooping up mud from the sea bottom, consuming small crustaceans and tube worms found in the sediment. The International Whaling Commission granted partial protection to the gray whale in 1937, followed by full protection in 1947, according to the American Cetacean Society. Once heavily hunted, gray whales are now a popular attraction for whale watchers along the Pacific coast of North America. Despite this, they are still sometimes targeted by hunters. Recently, five American Indian hunters from Washington state could potentially face prosecution from their Makah tribe for unlawfully shooting and killing a gray whale using harpoons and a rifle typically used for hunting elephants. Scientists have observed a number of gray whales in recent years showing signs of starvation. The researchers concluded that the whales are experiencing a decrease in food availability in their Arctic feeding areas due to changing climate conditions. They also noted that other animals, such as Arctic seabirds, may be impacted by the reduced population of gray whales. Fellow Stanford researcher Steve Palumbi explained that the seabirds relied on the creatures unearthed by the whales during feeding, estimating that 96,000 gray whales could have provided food for over a million seabirds each year. | 2 |
Burundi is set to have a referendum on May 17 to determine whether to modify the constitution and extend presidential terms from five to seven years. Human rights organizations are skeptical that the vote will be conducted in a fair and open environment, citing sporadic instances of violence and abductions. Emmanuel Bigirimana, the leader of Buganda district, reported an incident in the village of Ruhagarika where armed individuals arrived and began shooting, resulting in casualties who were either killed on the spot or taken to the hospital. Approximately 20 attackers wearing military uniforms were involved in the crisis that erupted in Burundi in April 2015 when President Pierre Nkurunziza announced his intention to seek a third term, a move deemed unconstitutional by the opposition. This decision led to violence, with some of Nkurunziza's opponents taking up arms against him. As a result, an estimated 400,000 people have fled to neighboring countries to escape the conflict. Both government officials and members of the opposition have been victims of the violence between the rival factions. The suggested modifications to the constitution would restrict the president to serving two consecutive terms, without considering previous terms, potentially allowing Nkurunziza to remain in power until 2034. Some residents in the village, who chose to remain anonymous, speculated that the recent attack was a warning against supporting the constitutional changes. However, Bigirimana dismissed this theory, stating that the attackers were not driven by political motives, as they targeted three households and only killed women and children. He explained that the attack was a result of a personal vendetta rather than a political agenda. | 2 |
The pressures, hopes, and aspirations weighed heavily on Harris during the Democratic convention as she aimed to introduce herself to a nation and party that barely knew her. If she and Biden win in November, she will continue to carry this burden for the next four years. It is uncommon for a vice-presidential candidate to serve under a presidential nominee who may not seek a second term, so Harris faces high expectations from her party to demonstrate strong leadership. Tim Kaine, the Virginia senator and former vice-presidential candidate for Hillary Clinton in 2016, acknowledged the significant weight placed on Harris' shoulders. He stated that within the turbulent Democratic Party, there was no single individual that Joe Biden could have chosen to please everyone. Despite his enthusiasm for Harris, he acknowledged that it was impossible to have universal approval within such a diverse group. The first two days of the convention focused on presenting a united front of moderates, progressives, some Republicans, and democratic socialists, with efforts to smooth over disagreements. Democrats emphasized diversity in various aspects while nominating a 77-year-old white grandfather from Delaware as their candidate. Although they included some liberal viewpoints, they did not give much attention to policy goals like "Medicare for All." Currently, the top priority for the party is defeating President Donald Trump, above all other considerations. If the Democrats are successful, Trump will no longer be in office, making it even more challenging for Harris to satisfy the various factions within the Democratic Party. As the supposed bridge for future generations and the face of the party, Harris will face scrutiny in the upcoming weeks on her campaigning abilities, her skills in debates with Pence, and her ability to excite voter turnout, especially among younger voters and progressives who may not be eager to support Biden during a pandemic. Additionally, as a woman of color running for a position historically held by white men, Harris may also face judgment based on deep-seated biases that still exist in certain parts of the country. Harris has addressed this issue directly to her Democratic audience, and it is likely she will continue to confront it in the months ahead. A president is needed who can unite people of all races to achieve our shared goals, and that president is Joe Biden, according to Kamala Harris. Harris is now facing significant challenges as she enters a critical moment in her career and for the nation and her party. As a former prosecutor and moderate Democrat, can Harris navigate the changing political landscape marked by a shift to the left and the possibility of a new generation taking over? With Biden's age in mind, is Harris ready to step into the role of president if needed? In her speech, Harris discussed the impact of the pandemic and criticized a president who uses tragedies for political gain. She also highlighted the disproportionate suffering of Black, Latino, and Indigenous communities due to structural racism, and emphasized that racism is a problem without a simple solution. She mentioned victims of police violence like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor in her address. However, she also dedicated significant time to emphasizing the importance of family and friendships in her life, as well as highlighting her experience as a prosecutor advocating for people and victims. She confidently stated, "I know a predator when I see one." Her historic nomination as the first Black woman and first person of Indian descent to be chosen as vice president generated excitement and symbolized a significant shift in the Democratic Party's leadership towards reflecting the country's changing demographics. Following a primary dominated by elderly white candidates, her selection as a 55-year-old woman of color indicated a move towards greater diversity. Known for her strong debating skills and articulate speaking abilities, she made a mark during her brief presidential campaign and as a member of the Judiciary Committee questioning Attorney General William Barr. It is widely believed in Democratic circles that she will continue the tradition of vice-presidential candidates fiercely opposing the other party. She criticized Donald Trump for his lack of leadership, which she believes has had a devastating impact on lives and livelihoods. The ongoing chaos, incompetence, and callousness of the current administration has left many feeling adrift, afraid, and alone. Running a campaign in California is tough, but it is even more challenging to campaign on a national level, especially in the current polarized political climate. Despite having successful contests in California, Kamala Harris's presidential campaign faced early challenges due to internal conflicts and a lack of a clear message. Patti Solis Doyle, who managed Hillary Clinton's 2008 campaign, highlighted the enthusiasm Harris brought to the presidential race, evident in the $48 million in contributions received in just 48 hours after her announcement. Harris, the daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica, is seen as a trailblazer, with the potential to excite voters as the first African American woman or American Indian woman on a national ticket. Harris is also expected to broaden the ticket's appeal across generations, attracting younger Americans seeking change while also appealing to older voters who appreciate Joe Biden's centrist views and commitment to restoring civility and stability in government. "There is a portion of the Democratic electorate, particularly among older voters, who value competence, character, and traditional virtues in a presidential candidate," he explained. "However, they also desire excitement and energy, which Kamala Harris embodies." Harris faces a significant challenge in how she navigates the growing influence of the left-wing within the party. Although Biden secured the nomination with strong support from Black voters, older voters, and white suburbanites, younger and more liberal voters were hesitant due to his centrist leanings and bipartisan approach. Harris, being from California, is more familiar with left-wing ideology than Biden, but her selection did not reassure many liberal Democrats who are concerned about her past record on policing issues." Waleed Shahid, a spokesperson for the progressive organization Justice Democrats, expressed that while Senator Kamala Harris is favored by the party establishment, she is not preferred by the party's base, particularly the younger generation of Democrats. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent figure in the progressive movement, did not mention Joe Biden or Kamala Harris when nominating Bernie Sanders at the convention, highlighting the division within the party. Despite this dissent being overshadowed by the party's desire to defeat Trump, it could resurface if the Democrats win. Harris will need to navigate this divide carefully to avoid a primary challenge from the left in the future. Varshini Prakash, the executive director of the Sunrise Movement, a youth-led group of climate activists, expressed that Kamala Harris' nomination was a significant moment that excited Democrats of all ages and beliefs. Prakash believes that Harris could be a representation of the direction in which the Democratic Party is moving, but notes that the party encompasses a wide range of ideologies beyond just Harris. Despite any uncertainties, Harris herself has expressed determination to follow in the footsteps of President Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. Biden has elevated her to national prominence, and she has been warmly received by many in the party. However, challenges are expected in the upcoming weeks and potentially throughout her time in office if she is elected. But at this moment, Kamala Harris presented herself as a new leader of the Democratic party to a nation grappling with an uncertain future amid a pandemic, delivering a message of unity and hope. (c.2020 The New York Times Company) | 2 |
Hours after the military council attempted to ease public anger by promising a new civilian government, Defence Minister Awad Ibn Auf announced his resignation as head of the council in a televised speech. Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan Abdelrahman will now lead the council, Ibn Auf stated. He also announced that Chief of Staff Kamal Abdelmarouf al-Mahi was removed from his position as deputy head of the transitional military council. Ibn Auf emphasized the importance of maintaining security and unity within the armed forces as they embark on a new path of change. The news of these changes led to joyful celebrations in the streets of Khartoum, with many chanting, "The second has fallen!" in reference to Bashir, according to witnesses. Rashid Saeed, a spokesperson for the Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA), stated that recent events are a positive development and a nod to the will of the people, bringing them closer to achieving victory. He emphasized the group's commitment to their demands, urging the public to continue protesting until all demands are met. The military council has proposed a two-year transition period before elections, with the possibility of a shorter timeline if stability is maintained. The council plans to engage in dialogue with political parties and has announced intentions to establish a civilian government in the future to reassure protestors seeking significant and prompt change. Several thousand protesters defied Ibn Auf's military council by remaining in front of the defence ministry compound and other parts of the capital, despite a night time curfew imposed by Ibn Auf. The SPA criticized the military council, stating that it was incapable of bringing about change, and reiterated its demand for power to be transferred to a transitional civilian government. Bashir, who seized power in a 1989 military coup, faced 16 weeks of protests due to rising food costs, high unemployment, and increasing repression during his decades-long rule. Worshippers gathered around the Defence Ministry for Friday prayers, responding to a call by the SPA to challenge the military council. The number of protesters increased throughout the day, with an estimated hundreds of thousands of people surrounding the ministry, which was guarded by soldiers. A Sudanese police spokesman reported that at least 16 people were killed and 20 injured by stray bullets during protests and sit-ins on Thursday and Friday. Government buildings and private property were also targeted, according to spokesman Hashem Ali. He urged citizens to help maintain safety and public order. One protester, 24-year-old doctor Abdelhamid Ahmed, expressed opposition to the military council currently in power, citing their ties to former President Bashir's regime. Ibn Auf, a member of the council, was previously vice president and defense minister under Bashir and has faced sanctions from Washington for his alleged involvement in atrocities during the Darfur conflict that began in 2003. Ibn Auf announced Bashir's removal on Thursday, along with the establishment of a military council, a state of emergency, a nationwide ceasefire, the suspension of the constitution, and a night time curfew from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. These measures were criticized by rights groups for being heavy-handed. Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman, the third most senior general in the Sudanese armed forces, previously led Sudan's ground forces and oversaw troops in the Yemen war. Sudan's deputy UN ambassador, Yasir Abdalla Abdelsalam Ahmed, emphasized the need for a democratic process in Sudan, stating that all parties, including armed groups, should be included. He urged the international community to support a peaceful transition. The 15-member council met later on Friday in private to receive updates on the current situation in Sudan. The Sudanese envoy mentioned that the suspension of the constitution could be revoked at any time and the transitional period could be shortened based on progress on the ground and agreements made between parties. Major countries like the United States and Britain expressed their support for a peaceful and democratic transition in less than two years. China stated they would maintain cooperation with Sudan regardless of the political circumstances. Zain al-Abideen assured that the military council would not intervene in a civilian government. He stated that the transitional military council would have control over the defence and interior ministries. Burhan, the new leader of the council, previously served as the inspector general of the Sudanese armed forces and was the third highest-ranking general. Despite being relatively unknown to the public, he previously led Sudan's ground forces and supervised troops in the Yemen war led by Saudi Arabia. He has strong connections with senior Gulf military officials due to his role in coordinating Sudan's military participation in the conflict. Zain al-Abideen stated that the military council is not seeking power and believes that solutions to Sudan's crisis will come from the protesters. He emphasized that they do not want to impose anything on the people and aim to facilitate a peaceful dialogue. The council planned to meet with political entities to prepare for dialogue, but the meeting was postponed. The council explained that they did not include Bashir's National Congress Party in the dialogue because they believe the party is responsible for the events that occurred. They also cautioned protesters that the army would not tolerate any disturbances. Ibn Auf stated that Bashir was being held in a secure location, with sources revealing he was at the presidential residence under heavy security. The council announced that they would not hand over Bashir to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, where he faces charges of genocide in Darfur stemming from a conflict that began in 2003 and resulted in the deaths of an estimated 300,000 people. Bashir has consistently denied these accusations. | 2 |
Trump stated that America will not give up its sovereignty to a global bureaucracy that is not elected or accountable. He emphasized that America is governed by its own people, rejecting globalism and embracing patriotism. Despite the silence from world leaders who are uneasy with his go-it-alone views, Trump's 35-minute address passionately reiterated his "America First" policies. He has upset the global balance by pulling the United States out of the Iran nuclear deal and the Paris climate accord, and has threatened to penalize NATO nations for not contributing more to their mutual defense. He stated that in the future, foreign aid will only be given to countries that are friendly and respectful towards the US, and he expects other countries to pay their fair share for their defense costs. Trump criticized Iran and China, but did not mention Russia's involvement in Syria or alleged interference in US elections. Macron presented a different perspective, warning that survival of the fittest, protectionism, and isolationism would only increase tensions. He argued in favor of multilateralism and collective action, cautioning that nationalism could result in failure and a return to global wars if countries neglect to uphold fundamental principles. Macron stressed his rejection of the deterioration of multilateralism and emphasized the importance of preserving history. He urged the audience to consider the impact on future generations. Trump mainly focused on criticizing Iran, labeling it as a "corrupt dictatorship" with nuclear ambitions and accused it of fueling instability in the Middle East by supporting militant groups in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. Trump condemned Iran's leaders for causing chaos, death, and destruction. Macron pointed out that they do not show respect towards their neighbors, borders, or the sovereign rights of nations. Macron used Iran as an example of how Trump's call for isolation could result in conflicts. Trump, who typically boasts about his economic record at political rallies, made similar claims in front of world leaders and diplomats, leading to some laughter and murmuring in the crowd. Trump seemed surprised by the reaction but brushed it off. Trump declined the opportunity to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani while they were both in New York, stating in a tweet that he had lost hope for a meeting. He plans to continue applying economic pressure on Tehran in an effort to prompt a change in their behavior. Rouhani is scheduled to speak to leaders later in the day. The United States, under Republican leadership, pulled out of the 2015 international agreement that aimed to restrict Iran's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Relations between Washington and Tehran have deteriorated since then, despite the deal being negotiated by Democratic President Barack Obama. Trump announced that further sanctions against Iran will be put in place on November 5th, with more to come. He also stated that the United States is collaborating with countries that purchase Iranian oil to significantly reduce their imports. Trump revealed plans to establish a strategic alliance between Gulf nations, Jordan, and Egypt as a defense against Iran. He drew a comparison between relations with Iran and North Korea, praising North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for recent positive actions, such as halting nuclear tests and releasing prisoners. This is a shift from Trump's previous insults towards Kim, calling him "rocket man" in a speech at the UN last year. The two leaders are in talks to plan a second summit and are sharing private messages. Trump has stated that sanctions on North Korea will continue for the time being. In a stern message to OPEC members, Trump urged them to stop increasing oil prices and to cover the costs of their own military defense. He warned that US aid would only be given to countries that are allies of the United States. In reaction, a Gulf diplomat noted that their region has been contributing their fair share to burden sharing. Crude oil prices reached a four-year high due to upcoming US sanctions on Iranian crude exports and OPEC and Russia's reluctance to increase output. Trump's focus was on Iran, trying to create division between its leaders and citizens following a recent attack. Trump stated he would not meet with Iranians unless they alter their behavior, leaving room for a potential better relationship in the future. Iran's UN mission spokesperson confirmed that Iran has not requested a meeting with Trump. Certain individuals within Iran have stated that any discussions between Rouhani and Trump would essentially terminate the current nuclear agreement that was also signed by France, Britain, Germany, Russia, China, and the European Union. | 2 |
The disappearance of the link to Donald J. Trump's Dec 7 proposal calling for a "total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States" was noticed on Thursday, along with the removal of other important details from his website. The Trump campaign did not respond to inquiries about these changes, and the links now redirect readers to a campaign fundraising page. These changes were made around Election Day, when Trump won against Hillary Clinton. Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal praised Trump for removing the Muslim ban proposal and deleting offensive statements about Muslims from his Twitter account. However, some tweets attacking Muslims remained on Trump's feed as of Thursday. A supporter's tweet from Nov 30, 2015, quoted by Trump, repeated the claim that Muslims celebrated the Sept 11, 2001 attacks and suggested including footage of these celebrations in political ads. Samer Khalaf, president of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, expressed concerns about Trump's policies at a news conference with other civil rights leaders, stating that the group was still worried about the effects on Muslims. Khalaf thanked Trump for removing the words regarding the Muslim ban proposal, but emphasized that actions speak louder than words. Despite some deletions, most of Trump's core policy positions, including building a physical wall on the Mexico border and making Mexico pay for it, remained on his website. The Trump campaign has previously made unexplained modifications to its website before. This year, they also swapped out the section detailing Trump's healthcare policy with a different version. After being questioned about it by Reuters in September, the campaign restored the original page. | 2 |
Southern African leaders are set to convene an urgent meeting in Swaziland's capital Mbabane on Wednesday to address the crisis in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has called on the United Nations to isolate President Robert Mugabe and deploy a peacekeeping force in Zimbabwe. Despite the U.N. Security Council's recent condemnation of violence against the opposition and declaration that a free and fair presidential election on Friday was not possible, Mugabe remains defiant. The meeting in Mbabane, organized by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), comes as international pressure mounts on Mugabe to resolve the political and economic crisis in his country. The leaders of Tanzania, Angola, and Swaziland will participate in the meeting as part of the SADC's troika organ on politics, defense, and security, according to a statement from the Tanzanian government. The current SADC chairman, President Levy Mwanawasa of Zambia, and the SADC mediator for Zimbabwe, President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa, have been invited to attend the meeting, as stated. The meeting will focus on how the SADC and its troika organ on politics, defense, and security can assist Zimbabwe in resolving its current state of conflict. Tsvangirai, who has sought refuge in the Dutch embassy in Harare after withdrawing from the election, expressed concerns that Zimbabwe would suffer without international intervention. He called on the U.N. to take more decisive action, including isolating President Mugabe, and emphasized the need for a protective force for the people. Tsvangirai emphasized the need for global leaders to support their words of condemnation with military force in order to protect the people of Zimbabwe and uphold the democratic process. Pressure is mounting on Mugabe from various sources, including the United States urging SADC to declare the election and his government as illegitimate due to the country's ongoing crisis. Angola's state-owned ANGOP news agency reported that SADC executive secretary Tomaz Salomao stated that foreign ministers agreed during a meeting on Monday that there was a "climate of extreme violence" in Zimbabwe and that the government needed to protect its citizens. The election on Friday was supposed to be a run-off between Mugabe and Tsvangirai, with Tsvangirai winning the first round in March but not securing an outright victory according to official figures. Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change also won a separate parliamentary election in March, marking the first defeat for Mugabe's ZANU-PF party since independence from Britain in 1980. Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade and the leader of South Africa's ruling African National Congress both stated that Friday's election should be postponed following Tsvangirai's withdrawal. Zuma, who is seen as one of the most powerful figures in South Africa, has urged the United Nations and SADC to intervene urgently in the situation in Zimbabwe, which he believes is spiraling out of control. While Mbeki's administration has favored a policy of "quiet diplomacy" with Mugabe and resisted using economic pressure on Zimbabwe, Zuma, who replaced Mbeki as leader of the ANC in December, has been more vocal in his criticism of Mugabe. Despite international pressure, Mugabe remains defiant and has stated that the upcoming election will proceed as planned. Mugabe stated that elections will continue, and those who wish to acknowledge the government's legitimacy may do so, while those who do not should refrain. Mugabe has overseen a decline into economic turmoil, with 80 percent unemployment and the highest inflation rate in the world, at least 165,000 percent. He attributes his country's economic difficulties to Western sanctions. | 2 |
However, following the tragic event in El Paso where a white supremacist gunman killed 22 people, the political world is now heading towards a more intense debate on racist extremism. The gun lobby, social media companies, and websites like 8chan are all under fire for their role in spreading toxic ideas that have led to real-life consequences. President Donald Trump is also facing harsh criticism for the similarities between his rhetoric and the El Paso shooter's manifesto. Trump's attempts to deflect criticism, such as attacking the news media and vaguely calling for new background checks, have not been successful in easing the political pressure. Despite a statement condemning white supremacy and internet-fueled extremism, Trump's refusal to address his own language or support stricter gun regulations has only fueled further criticism and demands for accountability. Former President Barack Obama made a statement on Monday afternoon that highlighted how the gun violence debate was shifting towards a focus on extremism. Obama called for gun control and a strong national rejection of racism and those who promote it. He emphasized the need to reject language from leaders that promotes fear, hatred, and racist sentiments. Although Obama did not mention any leaders by name, Democratic candidates for the 2020 presidency directly blamed President Trump for empowering extremists. Joe Biden accused Trump of promoting white supremacy and dividing the country. Other political leaders also expressed their distress and alarm at the current state of affairs. Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor of New York City and a strong advocate for gun control, wrote in a column that the recent acts of violence should lead to a change in the political discussion surrounding guns. He criticized Trump's response as inadequate. Democratic presidential candidates, including Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker, also criticized Trump for not taking enough responsibility for the rise in violence. Booker plans to give a speech on gun violence at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, where a mass shooting occurred in 2015. The issue of gun violence and racism is becoming increasingly important in elections beyond the presidential race, with candidates like Mike Johnston in Colorado blaming Trump for fostering a toxic culture that encourages violence and extremism. Candidates in the upcoming elections will have to take a clear stance on these issues. According to Johnston, you must choose to support either the white nationalists with AR-15s or the millions of Americans who fear them. Trump expressed openness to bipartisan solutions to address gun violence and attributed the spread of "sinister ideologies" to the internet and social media. He emphasized his support for the death penalty and seemed doubtful that gun restrictions would be effective, stating that mental illness and hatred, not guns, are the root of the problem. Trump's campaign criticized Democrats for politicizing national grief and defended the president's condemnation of racism and white supremacy. The campaign also pointed out that Bernie Sanders was not blamed when one of his supporters attempted to attack Republican lawmakers in 2017. He stated that the people who carry out such horrific attacks are ultimately responsible for them. While Trump and his supporters deny any blame for the increase in extremist violence, many in the public feel he has not distanced himself enough from white supremacists. A survey conducted by the Pew Research Centre in March revealed that a majority of Americans, 56 percent, believe Trump has not done enough to separate himself from white nationalist groups. This sentiment was shared by about a quarter of Republicans or those leaning towards Trump's party. It is not just those on the left who argue that the recent mass shootings in El Paso and Dayton are a crisis for the country and a test for Trump. The conservative magazine National Review published an editorial calling for action against the "murderous and resurgent ideology" of white supremacy, urging Trump to condemn these actions clearly and repeatedly. Former Republican governor of Oklahoma Frank Keating, who led his state through the 1995 bombing by domestic terrorists, believes that the current situation calls for both new gun restrictions and a new approach from the White House. He advised Trump to be cautious with his choice of words to avoid causing fear or anger. Keating emphasized the importance of the president's rhetoric and called him the secular pope, stating he needs to be a moral leader as well as a government leader. He also expressed concern over whether the El Paso shooting could have a significant impact on national politics like the Oklahoma City bombing did in the 1990s. President Bill Clinton's response to the bombing helped restore confidence in his leadership. Trump has not shown any desire to take on a role of clear moral leadership or to reflect on his own involvement in divisive politics. Following a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville in 2017, where a young woman was killed, Trump controversially stated that there were "very fine people on both sides." Recently, he has made unapologetic attacks on various members of racial minority groups. While many Republican lawmakers have not publicly criticized Trump after the recent shootings in El Paso and Dayton, there are private concerns within the party about the impact of his actions on the 2020 elections. During the 2018 midterm elections, Trump focused on illegal immigration in his campaign and his party suffered significant losses in diverse cities and affluent suburbs. In the final weeks of the 2018 elections, there were two traumatic events that may have further upset voters about the president's violent language and appeals to racism: attempted bombings by a Trump supporter and a mass shooting at a synagogue in Pittsburgh. Trump initially expressed sorrow about the hate in the country following the shooting, but quickly returned to his caustic message. Despite this, his rural and white political base remained supportive. The Democratic party briefly united in the wake of the violence, highlighting the impact Trump's behavior will have on the 2020 campaign. Some Democrats seemed to acknowledge this political reality during last week's debates. In reality, the morning after his party's consecutive debates ended, Governor Jay Inslee of Washington state told a reporter in Detroit that he believed his party would easily come together for the 2020 election. Inslee stated, "We have the most powerful force of unity, besides a black hole, and that is a white nationalist in the White House." | 2 |
Throughout the past forty years, with twelve years as the director of NASA's planetary science division and the last three as its chief scientist, he has significantly influenced NASA's scientific research by overseeing missions throughout the solar system and contributing to over 100 scientific papers on various topics. While focusing on Earth's magnetic field and plasma waves early in his career, he later expanded his research interests. One of his recent notable proposals is the "confidence of life detection," or CoLD, scale for verifying the detection of alien life. He has also suggested the possibility of terraforming Mars to make it habitable for humans by using a large magnetic shield to protect the planet's atmosphere. Additionally, he has supported the exploration of other worlds, including a mission to Jupiter's icy moon, Europa, set to launch in 2024. Before a December conference of the American Geophysical Union in New Orleans, Green discussed various aspects of his work and the quest for life within our solar system. The following are edited and condensed portions from our interview where he discusses the importance of a systematic approach to the search for life using the CoLD scale, which ranks potential discoveries from one to seven. In response to a question about the need for such a scale, Green referenced the recent observation of phosphine in the atmosphere of Venus by scientists a few years ago. The size of what they saw made them think that life was a significant possibility. On the CoLD scale, where seven indicates the discovery of life, it only ranked as a one. It didn't even reach a two. They later realized that there was contamination in their signal and it may not actually be phosphine, and they are unable to reproduce it. Therefore, there is a need for better communication. Methane is commonly found on Mars. While 95% of methane on Earth is linked to life, there is a small percentage that is not. We are currently at CoLD Level 3, but if a scientist presented an instrument that could upgrade us to CoLD Level 4, I would immediately fund that mission. It is important to take the right steps towards finding life in the solar system, rather than making drastic jumps. NASA has been focused on the search for life on Mars since 1976, but it is not surprising that we have not yet found life. A: Our current approach is more systematic and intelligent in identifying the signs of life that can develop over time. Earth, at 4.5 billion years old, is now teeming with life. However, if we look back a billion years, we would see that Venus was once a blue planet with a substantial ocean. It is possible that Mars had life in the past when it was a blue planet billions of years ago before losing its magnetic field and water. Despite landing the Viking landers in a less than ideal location on Mars, scientists would have liked to discover signs of life on the planet's surface. It felt as if we were placing something in the Gobi Desert instead of where we should have, in Jezero Crater, the river delta where the Perseverance rover is currently located. Back then, we were unaware of its existence. One of the Viking experiments suggested the presence of microbial life in the soil, but only one of the three instruments confirmed it, so we couldn't confirm the discovery of life. With the upcoming sample return mission, we will have conclusive evidence. We didn't anticipate the need for a sample return mission. Question: In the past, you mentioned the idea of terraforming Mars by using a large magnetic shield to prevent the sun from stripping its atmosphere, thus allowing the planet to retain more heat and become habitable. Is this idea feasible?
Answer: Yes, it is feasible. By stopping the atmosphere from being stripped away, the pressure on Mars will increase, leading to the planet naturally beginning to terraform itself. We desire for the planet to contribute in any way possible. As pressure increases, so does temperature. The initial stage of terraforming occurs at 60 millibars, which is ten times our current level. This point is known as the Armstrong limit, where human blood would not boil if exposed to the surface. Without the need for a spacesuit, there would be greater freedom of movement. The increased temperature and pressure create conditions that allow for the cultivation of plants in the soil. Various methods for creating a magnetic shield are being considered. I am currently in the process of finalizing a paper that I have been working on for two years, although I anticipate it will not be well received. The planetary community is generally opposed to the concept of terraforming. I believe we have the ability to alter Venus by using a physical shield that reflects light, which would lower the temperature. NASA approved the Europa Clipper mission in 2015 to search for signs of life on Jupiter's moon Europa, following the detection of plumes erupting from its subsurface ocean in 2013. Would you have preferred for this mission to happen sooner? Text = A: I would have liked to see it earlier, but it was not possible. Some missions are so large that they are called strategic missions. To make them happen, everything has to line up perfectly. You need to propose it, have a strong case, present it to NASA administrators, and then pitch it to Congress. I proposed a Europa mission every year. Each year, the administration showed no interest in visiting Europa, but the discovery of plumes on the moon led to the Europa mission. At a 2013 American Geophysical Union meeting, scientists discussed finding a plume on Europa using Hubble, prompting excitement and plans for a press conference. I dialed NASA headquarters again, and they successfully completed the task. I brought that information back to headquarters and incorporated it into the narrative of Europa. This was a game-changer. They expressed interest in pursuing the idea. When asked about Congress's decision not to include a lander in the mission, did you support that decision? A: Although I would like to have a lander, it is not currently part of the plan. Having a lander would complicate the mission, but everything we are doing on Clipper is preparing us for a potential future lander mission. I made sure that we have a high-resolution imager so that when we fly over certain areas, we can gather the information needed to safely choose a landing spot. Europa's terrain is hazardous, so without high-resolution imaging, landing would be impossible. It's important to take small steps rather than a big leap, as failure is more likely with the latter approach. Viking serves as an example of when we took a significant leap without enough knowledge. We lacked information about the soils, toxins, and water on the planet before sending the two Vikings to the surface. There were 10 crucial things we should have known beforehand. Despite retirement, the individual plans to continue working on scientific papers. Paraphrased text = A: Yes, definitely. I am currently working on a paper about Mars, a paper about Europa, and a book on astrobiology. I have a strong passion for science. Copyright 2022 by The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Putin pledged to protect a bank that is partially owned by a former ally who has been blacklisted by Washington. Russia's response to the latest financial and visa restrictions imposed by the United States involved creating its own blacklist. Despite Putin's allies downplaying the US sanctions, the Moscow stock exchange experienced a significant decline in shares, losing $70 billion in value in one month. President Obama warned of targeting key sectors of the economy if Russia extended its reach beyond the Black Sea peninsula in Ukraine. Russian troop movements near the Ukraine border were met with skepticism by Washington, leading the OSCE to send monitors to Ukraine. Visa and MasterCard ceased processing payments for a Russian bank owned by individuals on the US blacklist, prompting Russia to consider canceling foreign borrowing for the year and reducing domestic borrowing if debt issuance costs increased. The European Union, in alignment with the US, imposed sanctions on 12 individuals, including a Russian deputy prime minister and two aides to Putin. European leaders also expressed a desire to lessen dependence on Russian energy and signed a political agreement with the new leadership in Kiev following the ousting of Moscow-backed President Viktor Yanukovich. In a televised ceremony from the Kremlin, Putin ratified a treaty annexing Crimea into Russia and established two new administrative districts in the region. Russians in Crimea celebrated the annexation with fireworks, while Ukrainian and Tatar residents remained behind closed doors. Amid the annexation, a Ukrainian businessman expressed disappointment over the presence of an occupying force in his country. A referendum held last Sunday in Crimea, following the annexation by Russian troops, overwhelmingly voted in favor of union with Russia. This move was criticized by Washington and the European Union as a fraudulent process. In response, President Obama decided to target the finances of individuals connected to Putin, escalating the diplomatic tensions. Putin denied any involvement of Bank Rossiya, a St Petersburg-based bank chaired by his associate Yuri Kovalchuk, in the events in Crimea. He stated that the bank mainly serves clients in Russia's energy sector. Putin also announced that he would transfer his wages to Bank Rossiya. Other individuals on the U.S. blacklist include oil and commodities trader Gennady Timchenko, the Rotenberg brothers, and various high-ranking Russian officials. Additionally, European leaders discussed the need for more secure energy supplies, as Russia currently provides a significant portion of the EU's oil and gas. The EU aims to reduce its energy dependency and negotiate supply deals collectively with Moscow to strengthen their bargaining power. Van Rompuy stated the importance of moving towards an energy union. Angela Merkel suggested that US shale gas could be an option for European countries looking to diversify. Obama is set to discuss this issue with EU leaders at an upcoming summit. US credit card companies Visa and MasterCard stopped providing services for payment transactions with Russia's SMP bank, causing concern among foreign banks and companies about potential ripple effects of sanctions. French banker in Moscow expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of current sanctions, highlighting the risk to US dollar transfers for the Russian economy. Obama mentioned the possibility of imposing sanctions on various economic sectors if Russia escalates military actions in Ukraine. Ukrainian troops in Crimea continued to withdraw from bases surrounded by Russian forces. German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier stated that the situation in Ukraine is still volatile and dangerous, and encouraged OSCE observers to begin their work promptly. European nations, including Germany and France, took individual measures against Russia, with Germany suspending defense-related exports and France ending military cooperation. The EU leaders in Brussels showed their support for Ukraine's new leadership by signing a political agreement with interim Prime Minister Arseniy Yatseniuk and promising financial aid once a deal is reached with the IMF. Russia's stock index fell initially due to concerns about sanctions, with credit ratings agencies Fitch and S&P changing their outlooks on Russia to negative. Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev indicated that Russia would increase financial pressure on Ukraine to repay a gas supply contract. | 2 |
US geologists at Rothera Base in Antarctica were excited about President Barack Obama's inauguration and hopeful for a renewed focus on science. David Barbeau, an assistant professor of geology, expressed optimism about the new administration's commitment to increasing basic research funding. Amanda Savrda, a graduate student working with Barbeau, also felt inspired by Obama's support for science. "It appears to be a positive sign for my future and the future of many individuals in the field of science," she stated. Barbeau and Savrda are currently attempting to determine the exact timeline of when the ocean formed between Antarctica and South America millions of years ago. Meanwhile, at the Rothera base, other researchers are examining various aspects such as ice sheets and starfish to see how they might be impacted by climate change. Obama has committed to prioritizing the battle against global warming. In contrast, former President George W Bush faced criticism from numerous scientists and foreign governments for choosing not to adopt the Kyoto Protocol in 2001, which is the primary UN initiative aimed at combating climate change. All the other industrialized countries support the Kyoto agreement. | 2 |
She had never invested heavily in beauty treatments, rarely getting facials and shopping at Sephora infrequently. However, when Dr. Lara Devgan, a plastic surgeon in New York, resumed operations last month, Aubry went for a consultation and received treatment on the same day. This visit to the office was one of the few times she had left her home since March. Aubry, aged 40, could identify the source of her unease: "Listening to the sirens from my apartment and living in constant fear of falling ill." Having my children at home has affected my ability to manage my business, and witnessing the negative impact of the pandemic on the economy has increased my stress levels, leading me to realize that I was aging quickly. During the lockdown, there was a significant increase in demand for nonessential cosmetic treatments such as laser procedures, fillers, and Botox injections. Plastic surgeon Dr. Ben Talei from Los Angeles noted that many people are eager to undergo these procedures now while they have the time to heal without it disrupting their work and social commitments. It was likely expected that there would be a sudden increase in catch-up appointments. However, what will the beauty industry look like once this initial surge is over? Will people have a list of cosmetic procedures they want done after spending so much time in virtual meetings? Or, after relying on at-home skin care during the pandemic, will they come to realize they don't need medical treatments? The most crucial question is how to proceed with these appointments safely. According to doctors, the pandemic will lead to a shift in focus on our appearance as masks cover most of our faces. Requests for under-eye filler, Botox brow lifts, and eyelid surgery are expected to rise. Additionally, there will likely be a greater emphasis on the aesthetics of the torso, buttocks, and legs as our faces remain covered. Doctors have noticed an increase in requests for body treatments as practices reopen. Typically, summer is usually a slow period for surgeries due to people preparing for beach vacations where they will be wearing revealing clothing. However, due to the pandemic restricting travel, people are opting to undergo procedures now. According to the Aesthetic Society, liposuction and tummy tucks accounted for 31% of procedures in June, up from 26% in June 2019. Breast procedures also saw a 4.3% increase compared to last June. Dr. Herluf Lund, a plastic surgeon and president of the Aesthetic Society, noted a significant increase in breast augmentations and lifts in his practice compared to last year, despite the time his practice was closed. Nonsurgical body treatments, particularly injectables, are also seeing high demand. Shridharani stated that there is a significant amount of interest in using syringes instead of scalpels for various procedures. Injectable treatments, which are typically FDA-approved for facial use, can also be effective for addressing body concerns. For example, Shridharani uses Kybella to dissolve a double chin and melt fat in the abdomen, arms, and thighs. He also administers diluted Sculptra to stimulate collagen production in the arms and thighs to improve crepey skin. (Shridharani receives financial compensation from the companies that make Kybella and Sculptra for his work with these products.) The trend of excessive fillers and Botox that celebrities and influencers have been known for may be declining. Plastic surgeon Steven Pearlman predicts that the overly smooth, motionless foreheads and overfilled lips and cheeks, which have already begun to fall out of favor, will continue to decrease in popularity. Pearlman believes that people have noticed a more natural appearance in their faces during lockdowns and will no longer prioritize achieving an extreme look. Changes in social media habits may also occur, with uncertainty about whether people will continue sharing scenes from their Botox appointments on platforms like Instagram. In a time of coronavirus fears, economic struggles, and increasing national unrest, sharing expensive cosmetic procedures on social media could potentially lead to criticism. As the Black Lives Matter protests began at the end of May, many aesthetic doctors stopped posting their dramatic before-and-after photos to show sensitivity to the current situation. Social media has become an important way for people to connect during lockdowns, leading many to share more personal details with their followers. Maybe we will reach a compromise where instead of patients sharing photos of their procedures on their own social media accounts, they will allow their doctors to do so. Aubry, who previously would not have agreed to have her procedure photos posted, now wants other women to know that there are options available without feeling ashamed. Dr. Adolf Karchmer, an infectious disease expert from Harvard Medical School, believes that the decision to have aesthetic procedures during this time should be based on a risk-benefit analysis. While the risk of contracting the coronavirus will never be zero, medical offices should implement safety measures to minimize the risk to a very low level. Karchmer was a member of a task force that created Project AesCert, a set of safety protocols for reopening. Patients should be aware that safety precautions start even before they reach the office, as practices will be evaluating patients for symptoms, exposure risks, and underlying health conditions. Some practices may refuse to treat individuals who are at a high risk for COVID-19. Lund emphasized that the initial concern for the patient should be inquiring about the safety protocols of the practice. It is important to ask whether the practice can easily explain their safety measures over the phone and if this information is available on their website. Upon arrival, the patient's temperature will be checked, and all necessary paperwork will have been completed online prior to the appointment. Additionally, everyone present should be wearing masks. The doctor will be wearing personal protective equipment, such as an N95 mask, face shield, gown, and gloves. Many consultations and follow-ups will be done virtually to reduce traffic in the office due to the risk of coronavirus exposure. According to Devgan, the stakes for aesthetics are higher than ever, as medical resources are still not optimal during this time. It is not an ideal time to have a complication from a procedure. | 2 |
In the southern town of Gafsa, clashes erupted between groups of young people throwing stones and police using teargas to disperse them. However, the situation was calm in other parts of the North African state, which was the birthplace of the Arab Spring uprisings. There were concerns about more trouble due to calls for a general strike, and the funeral of the assassinated politician Chokri Belaid, scheduled for Friday, was seen as a potential flashpoint. Prime Minister Hamdi Jebali of the Ennahda party announced plans to replace the government with a non-partisan cabinet until elections could be held. However, there was opposition within the Ennahda party to this decision, with some members believing that Tunisia needed a political government immediately. The main opposition parties also rejected the idea of a government of experts and demanded to be consulted in the formation of any new cabinet. The ongoing political deadlock was seen as potentially worsening the unrest in Tunisia, highlighting the divide between Islamists and secular groups concerned about the future of freedoms and rights in the country. Chokri Belaid was assassinated by a gunman on a motorcycle as he left his home for work. The killing of a prominent politician sparked widespread protests across Tunisia, with demonstrators throwing rocks and clashing with police in scenes reminiscent of the unrest in Egypt. The ruling Ennahda party denied any involvement in the assassination, but their headquarters in Tunis was set on fire by angry crowds. The incident has reignited fears among Tunisians that religious extremists are threatening the freedoms gained during the Arab Spring uprisings. The interim parliament is set to discuss a proposal for a new technocratic government, but the country's political dysfunction may lead to further unrest and deadlock. The opposition is seeking to capitalize on the crisis for political gain, while concerns grow about the influence of radical Islamists on the democratic transition. International powers are urging Tunisians to resolve their differences peacefully, as economic concerns and frustrations over slow progress continue to fuel discontent. It remains lower than that of Egypt, which is experiencing unrest. However, Tunisia lacks the significant oil and gas resources of its neighbors Libya and Algeria, so tourism is a crucial source of income. Further unrest could deter visitors. After protests on Wednesday, Jebali announced that discussions on restructuring the government had failed due to disagreements within the coalition. A secular party threatened to leave unless Ennahda replaced some ministers. Opposition parties demanded that Jebali consult with them before dissolving his cabinet. Belaid, who was killed the day before, had been criticizing a culture of violence. He mentioned that Ennahda, along with its two smaller secularist allies in the coalition government, have shown tolerance towards Salafists, which has allowed the proliferation of groups that are against modern culture and liberal ideas. Similar to Egypt, secular leaders have accused Islamists of trying to impose strict religious beliefs in the new state. This disagreement has delayed an agreement on a constitution for a parliamentary election that was expected to take place by June. However, unlike Egypt's government, Ennahda has had difficulty forming a stable partnership with key state institutions, unlike the Muslim Brotherhood's relationship with the Egyptian military. According to risk consultancy Stratfor, this lack of reliance on the state security apparatus has left Ennahda with few tools to address the growing political opposition and popular demands for significant changes in the government. | 2 |
After a failed coup in 2016, Erdogan implemented a widespread crackdown. Following his re-election with increased powers, the economy faltered and the lira plummeted. As cronyism and authoritarianism become more prevalent in his government, Turks are choosing to leave the country in large numbers, taking talent and capital with them. This trend, as shown by government data and experts, suggests a significant and concerning lack of confidence in Erdogan's leadership. Over the past few years, not only have students and academics left, but also entrepreneurs, businesspeople, and numerous wealthy individuals who are liquidating their assets and relocating their families and money abroad. Merve Bayindir, a hat designer, stated that she is selling all her belongings after shutting down her business in Istanbul and relocating it to London, as reported by The New York Times. According to the Turkish Institute of Statistics, over a quarter of a million Turks emigrated in 2017, marking a 42 percent increase from the previous year. This mass exodus is seen as a significant societal shift that could potentially set Turkey back decades, according to Ibrahim Sirkeci, a director at Regent’s University in London, and other experts. Sirkeci emphasized that the brain drain phenomenon is a real concern. The exodus of people, talent, and capital is being caused by a combination of factors that have become characteristic of life under Erdogan and are believed by his opponents to be permanent. These factors include fear of political persecution, terrorism, a growing lack of trust in the judiciary and the unpredictability of the rule of law, and a worsening business environment, fueled by concerns that Erdogan is manipulating the economy for personal gain. As a result, many from the traditional wealthy class, especially the secular elite who have been influential in Turkey's cultural and business sectors for years, are leaving, while those close to Erdogan and his party are taking their place. One individual leaving is Merve Bayindir, a successful hat designer in Istanbul's Nisantasi district, who is moving to London with her family after deciding to close her business and sell their home. Protesters who took part in the demonstrations in Taksim Square in Istanbul in June 2013 faced harassment and persecution, leading many of them to leave Turkey. One such protester, Bayindir, continues to be haunted by the violent events and lives in fear in her own city. Numerous individuals faced harassment and persecution in Turkey and as a result, many chose to leave the country. Erdogan labeled the protesters as troublemakers and, following arrests and harassment, a significant number of people decided to relocate. Bayindir expressed the overwhelming discrimination and violence in Turkey, stating that it is unbearable. Many Turks, including Bayindir, have sought business visas in the UK or participated in golden visa programs in Greece, Portugal, and Spain to obtain residency by purchasing property. The number of Turks applying for asylum in Europe has also increased in recent years, according to Sirkeci, who has researched Turkish migration to the UK for two and a half decades. He believes that 10,000 Turks have utilized a business visa program to relocate to the UK in recent years, with a significant increase in applications since the start of 2016. This number is twice as many as the period from 2004 to 2015. Following the coup attempt, applications for political asylum by Turkish citizens in Britain increased by threefold and by sixfold in Germany, according to information from the UN refugee agency. The global number of Turks seeking asylum rose by 10,000 in 2017 to over 33,000. Many of those fleeing are supporters of Fethullah Gulen, the preacher based in Pennsylvania who is accused of orchestrating the 2016 coup, or individuals accused of being his followers, often with little evidence. Tens of thousands of teachers and academics lost their jobs following the coup, including hundreds who had signed a peace petition urging the government to stop military action in Kurdish cities. Many have found work overseas. Erdogan's efforts to make Turkey more conservative and religious have led to a growing middle class and a small group of elites who owe their economic success to him. According to Bekir Agirdir, director of the Konda polling company, the flight of capital and talent is a deliberate attempt by Erdogan to reshape society. The government's support for new businesses through subsidies and favorable contracts has led to the rapid replacement of old ones. “There is a shift of wealth happening,” he stated. “It involves societal and political manipulation.” Ilker Birbil, a mathematician facing charges for supporting the peace petition and relocating to Utrecht University in the Netherlands, cautioned that Turkey was experiencing a permanent loss of its citizens. Birbil noted that those leaving the country have no intention of returning due to the polarized political environment. This situation is concerning for Turkey. “I have been contacted by numerous students and acquaintances who are looking to leave Turkey,” he revealed. Erhan Erkut, a co-founder of MEF University in Istanbul, which focuses on teaching innovation and entrepreneurship, mentioned that students are losing hope for change as they have only known Erdogan as the leader for the past 17 years. He stated that the current government is the only one they have experienced, and they are unaware of other possibilities. Families are establishing businesses overseas for future generations, according to Sirkeci of Regent's University, noting that many students at his private university fit into this category. The Global Wealth Migration Review, produced by AfrAsia Bank, reported that at least 12,000 of Turkey's millionaires, representing about 12 percent of the wealthy class, transferred their assets out of the country in 2016 and 2017. The majority relocated to Europe or the United Arab Emirates, with Istanbul, Turkey's largest business hub, being among the top seven cities globally witnessing an outflow of wealthy individuals. The report stated that throughout history, major country collapses have been preceded by the migration of wealthy individuals out of that country. Erdogan has criticized businesspeople who have moved their assets abroad as the Turkish economy struggles, warning them that they will not be forgiven for their actions. He made these remarks during a speech at a business association in Istanbul, emphasizing that such behavior cannot be justified. This comes as reports indicate that some of Turkey's biggest companies are withdrawing investments from the country. Several companies have moved a significant amount of capital overseas due to concerns about being targeted in the aftermath of a coup or economic downturn. One example is Yildiz Holding, a Turkish food company, which faced criticism on social media for alleged ties to a political movement. In response, Yildiz restructured its debt and transferred ownership of its Turkish biscuit maker, Ulker, to a London-based holding company to protect it from legal action in Turkey. The transfer of funds out of Turkey has been substantial in recent years, with many feeling threatened and choosing to relocate their businesses abroad. In Turkey, she used to have six employees and a showroom, but now she creates and produces hats on her own in a rented studio in London. Despite feeling that she could have been more successful if she stayed in Istanbul, she decided to leave due to the increasing tension and fear of potential civil conflict between supporters of Erdogan and their adversaries. Reflecting on the changes in Istanbul, she noted that the city no longer feels vibrant and filled with energy. She appears exhausted. It is significant that I, someone who loves the city itself, did not want to come here. | 2 |
Sheikh Shahariar Zaman, a Senior Correspondent at bdnews24.com in Dhaka, reported that the government plans to implement a Green Initiative in all export-processing zones to decrease energy consumption. According to Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Member Mahbubur Rahman, industries in EPZs release steam into the air from boilers, which could be utilized to generate heat and save a significant amount of energy. Rahman mentioned that a project is underway at Chittagong Export Processing Zone to create a roadmap for reducing carbon emissions, with support from organizations such as the International Finance Corporation, UKAID, KOICA, and the European Union. He stated that this project will be expanded to other export processing zones as part of efforts to ensure efficient energy use. Rahman emphasized the importance of this initiative for Bangladesh, which is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. There are eight export-processing zones in Bangladesh, according to Senior Investment Officer of International Finance Corporation Han-koo Yeo. He emphasized that awareness and sharing of knowledge are key factors in implementing the Green Initiative. The project in Chittagong will allow local companies to learn how to adopt the initiative. Yeo stressed the importance of using energy efficiently for sustainable business development. | 2 |
Motivated by Greta Thunberg, 16-year-old student Aman Sharma initiated a petition on Change.org in May because he observed a trend of increasing heat, dryness, pollution, and water scarcity each year. He believes that staying silent will negatively impact our future survival. The petition has garnered over 170,000 signatures, and Sharma's goals include pressuring the government to enhance the country's green cover and fulfill commitments made in the 2015 Paris climate agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Despite multiple attempts, the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has not responded to requests for comment. Sharma is now focused on gaining the attention of Hollywood environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio, with support from personalities like Nathalie Kelley and Bollywood figures. On Wednesday, DiCaprio shared a photo on Instagram showing women in Chennai struggling to draw water from a nearly empty well, highlighting the daily challenges faced by thousands of residents. The city has been in the spotlight globally due to its main reservoirs drying up as a result of poor monsoons in 2018, leading to water rationing. A report by government think-tank NITI Aayog last year warned that Chennai was one of 21 cities at risk of running out of groundwater by 2020, as India faced its worst long-term water crisis in history. The report also stated that 600 million people, almost half of India's population, were at risk of severe water shortages. In the northern part of the country, a heatwave has claimed the lives of at least 36 people this year, with New Delhi recording its highest-ever temperature of 48 degrees Celsius (118 Fahrenheit). Jitendra Sharma, a popular Instagram influencer from Mumbai, recently began a petition that garnered nearly 300,000 signatures by Friday. He expressed optimism that the government would declare a climate emergency, emphasizing the importance of following in the footsteps of other countries. In May, the UK parliament acknowledged a symbolic climate change "emergency" in response to a growing activist movement, especially among young people in Europe. Environmentalist Chandra Bhushan explained that a climate emergency involves prioritizing climate change in policy and planning decisions. Bhushan from the Centre for Science and Environment in Delhi explained that the Indian government will need to acknowledge the crisis at hand, develop a plan of action, and address the issue of climate emergency. He emphasized that despite the government's current stance, eventually they will have to recognize the urgency of the situation. | 2 |
The South Asian nation has made strides in fighting hunger, but still ranks among 40 countries with a GHI score of 20.4, signaling a serious level of hunger. A high GHI score can indicate various issues such as food scarcity, poor diet quality, inadequate child care, and unhealthy environment. The GHI ranks countries on a scale of 0 to 100, with 0 being the best score and 100 the worst. The 2020 Global Hunger Index, released by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe, classifies countries into moderate, serious, or alarming hunger levels using data from sources like FAO, UNICEF, and WHO. The current COVID-19 pandemic's impact is not taken into account in the Index, according to the report. The world is facing a significant challenge in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development goal of 'Zero Hunger' by 2030. The report shows that hunger and undernutrition have worsened in countries with high hunger levels. Progress in many countries is slow or even worsening, as stated in the report. GHI scores are determined by four component indicators: undernourishment, child wasting, child stunting, and child mortality. The index shows that Bangladesh has made significant progress in reducing child stunting, with a decrease of 12.8 percentage points between 2012 and 2020. However, there is still an issue with undernourishment, affecting 13 percent of the population, a slight improvement from 13.8 percent in 2012. The under-five mortality rate in the country has also decreased from 4.3 percent in 2012 to 3 percent in 2020. There is concern about a potential doubling of the poverty rate in Bangladesh due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hasina Rahman, Assistant Country Director of Concern Worldwide, emphasized that Bangladesh is at high risk for worsening food and nutrition insecurity due to the overlapping crises of Health, Economic, and Environment in 2020. She urged for collaborative action to transform food systems to be fair, healthy, and eco-friendly to address current crises, prevent future ones, and work towards Zero Hunger by 2030. Sri Lanka and Nepal rank better than Bangladesh in terms of hunger levels, while India trails behind Pakistan and Afghanistan on the Global Hunger Index. The official data for 2020 does not yet reflect the impact of COVID-19 on countries. Stated clearly, it indicates where existing vulnerabilities to food insecurity lie. The Chief Executive of Concern Worldwide, Dominic MacSorley, mentioned that even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the world was not on track to achieve Zero Hunger by 2030. The negative trend has worsened this year due to the pandemic and global economic downturn, impacting every part of the world. The combination of crises, including climate change and conflict, is rapidly increasing food insecurity, especially for the most vulnerable. The pandemic has highlighted the deficiencies in the world's food system and its inability to address multiple crises. Experts believe that only by taking an integrated and holistic approach to global and environmental health can Zero Hunger be achieved by 2030. | 2 |
Britain's Home Secretary revealed that only a small minority of organizations consulted about the government's proposal to allow police to detain terrorism suspects for up to 42 days without charge actually support the plan. Jacqui Smith defended the controversial plans, which would extend the detention period from 28 days, to a parliamentary committee. Despite only six out of 71 organizations expressing unequivocal support, Smith did not disclose the names of these organizations or individuals. Both the Director of Public Prosecutions, Ken Macdonald, and the former Attorney General, Lord Goldsmith, have testified that they believe no change is necessary. Smith admitted to not meeting with MacDonald to discuss the proposals, despite needing his support. Over the weekend, media reports indicated that Jonathan Evans, the head of MI5, informed MPs privately that he would not support the new laws. Despite this, senior police officers, such as London Commissioner Ian Blair, have expressed support for the extension. Home Secretary Jacqui Smith argued that the proposals were essential to allow police more time to interrogate suspects in complex terrorism cases. She assured that the laws would have "safeguards" in place, requiring approval from both parliament and a judge for any extension. When questioned by members of both opposition and government parties, Smith denied that the 42 day limit was politically motivated, emphasizing that it was intended to ensure successful prosecutions. "It is possible that in the future, with only 28 days, there is a risk of releasing someone before evidence is gathered against them," she stated at the hearing. While she had previously agreed with critics that there was no need to extend the time, she changed her opinion due to the current threat of terrorism. "If I am mistaken, if senior police are mistaken about extending detention beyond 28 days, then the extension would never be utilized," she explained. Smith's unexpected announcement of the plans last week has been met with strong criticism from opposition parties, human rights groups, and certain Muslim organizations. The level of opposition, including some government MPs, suggests that Smith and Prime Minister Gordon Brown will face challenges in passing the laws through parliament. This would replicate the challenges faced by former Prime Minister Tony Blair, who experienced his initial defeat in the House of Commons in 2005 when attempting to extend detention time to 90 days. | 2 |
According to a statement from the Bangladesh mission in Geneva on Monday, Bangladesh has been chosen as a titular member of the governing body of the International Labour Organisation for the 2008-11 term. Bangladesh will represent the Asia Pacific Group of countries within the ILO. The elections for 18 new titular members took place at the international labour conference in Geneva. The ILO governing body consists of 56 regular members and includes representatives from governments, employers, and workers to reflect its tripartite structure. Acting labour and employment secretary Mahfuzul Haque, currently in Geneva, informed bdnews24.com that the election demonstrates the international community's backing of the country's commitment to various ILO conventions. He mentioned that as a member of ILO GB, Bangladesh can play a significant role in safeguarding the rights of workers both domestically and internationally. Haque also noted that Bangladesh is currently involved in several projects with ILO, such as eliminating child labor, protecting workers from climate change impacts, and creating guidelines for the ship-breaking industry. He expressed optimism that after the elections, Bangladesh will be able to carry out more projects with ILO support to advance the causes of the labor community. | 2 |
The Foreign Service Academy hosted a training session for the first time involving 15 young diplomats from neighboring countries and Bangladesh. Certificates were distributed by Foreign Secretary M Shahidul Haque at the closing ceremony on Thursday. Ambassadors and high commissioners from various countries were present. The training covered various aspects of international relations including diplomacy, foreign policy, human rights, international trade, energy security, and climate change. Additionally, the course included lessons on the history, culture, democratic values, traditions, and development priorities of the subcontinent. Participants also visited art galleries, museums, manufacturing plants, and other institutions important for Bangladesh's socio-economic development. The Foreign Service Academy, established in 1996, provides specialized training for Bangladeshi diplomats. This international training program for foreign diplomats was a first for the academy, and based on its success, the foreign ministry is considering making it a regular initiative. | 2 |
A Stone Age burial ground on the shores of a dried-up lake in the Sahara desert is filled with the remains of people, fish, and crocodiles that lived during a brief period when the desert was green, according to researchers. The site, known as Gobero in Niger, is around 10,000 years old and was discovered in 2000. University of Chicago paleontologist Paul Sereno, who led the research team, said they initially found the site while searching for dinosaur fossils. The discovery of the graves, artifacts, and bones of both humans and animals provided evidence of a green Sahara in the past. The site contains around 200 graves from two separate settlements that existed 1,000 years apart. A woman and two children, their arms intertwined, were buried on a bed of flowers approximately 5,000 years ago, in what is considered one of the most striking discoveries. The older group, known as Kiffians, were tall and robust hunter-gatherers who left the area during a drought around 8,000 years ago. A second group, the Tenerians, settled in the area between 7,000 and 4,500 years ago. They were smaller in stature and engaged in hunting, herding, and fishing. Both groups left behind various artifacts such as tool kits, fishhooks, ceramics, and jewelry. Chris Stojanowski, a bioarchaeologist from Arizona State University, stated that it is difficult to imagine two more biologically distinct groups of people burying their dead in the same location. The Sahara, the world's largest desert for thousands of years, experienced changes in the Earth's orbit 12,000 years ago that brought monsoons further north temporarily. The team at the site collected samples of tooth enamel, pollen, bones, soil, and tools to determine the dates of the site, artifacts, and remains. The researchers concluded in their report that the data from Gobero, along with other sites in North Africa, suggest a complex history of biosocial evolution in response to significant climate changes in the Sahara. | 2 |
A couple of nights ago, they were throwing Molotov cocktails during the anti-government protests in Hong Kong. However, when two of their friends were arrested by the police, they became afraid that they would be next. In a state of desperation, they reached out to a private online group that assists people in escaping to Taiwan. Shortly after, they found themselves on a flight to Taipei, the capital city. One of the protesters, with nervous eyes scanning the food court, mentioned, "We are running away from the law." "We had very little time to understand the situation." After leaving the airport, the group quickly got into a black van and drove away towards an uncertain future. They are part of over 200 young protesters who have sought refuge in Taiwan since the beginning of this year's Hong Kong democracy movement. This information comes from lawyers, pastors, and other supporters who have assisted them in leaving. Lawyers have reported that many protesters have recently escaped university campuses that were under police siege. The protesters are fleeing due to concerns about arrest and violence, as the confrontations between demonstrators and authorities have become more intense. Protesters are often met with tear gas, batons, and water cannons from the police. Some protesters have become more aggressive after feeling disillusioned that the peaceful tactics of the movement have not been effective. They have vandalized buildings and thrown bricks at police. Over 5,000 people have been arrested since the protests began in June, and hundreds are facing potential harsh sentences. While some are committed to continuing the fight, a growing sense of mistrust is causing some demonstrators to flee Hong Kong out of fear of unfair treatment in court or abuse, including allegations of sexual assault and rumors of torture, while in detention. Some individuals are seeking medical treatment in Taiwan after hearing about arrests happening in hospitals in Hong Kong. Protesters and organizers helping with the escapes emphasized the need to keep certain details and identities confidential to ensure the operation's safety. Chris Ng, a lawyer defending arrested protesters, explained that many are aware of the severe consequences they could face, such as up to 10 years in prison, which has led to a loss of faith in Hong Kong's judicial system. Ng has witnessed protesters missing court hearings and suspects they may have fled the country. He believes that even those willing to face legal consequences do not trust that they will be treated fairly or receive a suitable punishment for their actions. A covert group of supporters has become active along the pipeline from Hong Kong to Taiwan, organizing safe houses and coordinating the escape of protesters. Donors and aid organizations are covering the cost of plane tickets, volunteers are providing transportation to and from airports, fishermen are offering boat rides for up to $10,000 per person for the 440-mile journey, and pastors are arranging smuggling routes for protesters who have been arrested and had their passports confiscated. Chun Sen Huang, a lively 54-year-old pastor at Chi Nan Presbyterian Church in Taipei, humorously mentioned his familiarity with unexpected gatherings. He plays a key role in the network, serving as a liaison to coordinate travel plans, arrange accommodations, and connect protesters with necessary resources in Taiwan. Huang is always busy fielding requests on his phone, even during sermons and prayers. Recently, he was informed of a protester needing assistance after allegedly being assaulted by Hong Kong police. Additionally, he helped facilitate the arrival of 10 students who escaped from Hong Kong Polytechnic University during a standoff between police and protesters. Huang introduced them to a lawyer who assisted in obtaining temporary student visas through a Taiwanese university. A mother contacted seeking a new guardian for her 14-year-old son, who had thrown Molotov cocktails. Taiwan, an independent island, is a convenient and hospitable safe haven. Similar to Hong Kong, Taiwan has a tradition of accepting dissidents from mainland China. Despite Beijing's claim that Taiwan is part of China, Taiwanese leaders maintain their sovereignty. Many Taiwanese citizens have shown their support for the protests due to concerns about the Chinese government's influence on Hong Kong and how it may impact the future of their own democratic island. The protests were sparked by anger over an extradition bill, which has since been withdrawn, that would have allowed Hong Kong officials to extradite a fugitive to Taiwan for murder charges, even though there is no extradition agreement between the two regions. Protesters in Hong Kong feared that this legal change could be used to send dissidents to face trial in mainland China, where the courts are under the control of the Communist Party. While Taiwan has welcomed protesters, the government is proceeding cautiously to avoid provoking Beijing by enacting more lenient asylum laws. Many refugees who come seeking safety end up in a legal grey area with only temporary visas. Huang, a pastor in Taiwan for 22 years, has assisted dissidents escaping persecution from the Chinese government, but he has never seen an operation of this magnitude before. He compared it to "Operation Yellowbird," a covert network that helped hundreds of dissidents escape China and reach Hong Kong after the Tiananmen Square massacre in 1989, when Hong Kong was still under British rule. Huang remained hopeful, stating, "Darkness can never defeat light," as he led five newcomers into the church. "I am confident that democracy and freedom will ultimately triumph over totalitarianism." Making the choice to flee is a difficult decision for protesters. Ali, a student at Hang Seng University, has been arrested twice and faces charges that could result in a 10-year prison sentence. During her second arrest, she was detained in a parking lot with 70 other protesters for 48 hours. Ali described the lack of privacy, with male officers entering bathrooms without warning and overhearing other protesters being interrogated. She mentioned that she was accused of rioting without being given a reason. During her time in custody, she missed her first day of work as an associate teacher at a primary school and was subsequently let go. As she waits for her trial, her aspiration of becoming a teacher is fading. "It feels as if I'm picturing a previous existence," she remarked. "My prospects are destroyed," Ali stated from her grandmother's residence, where she currently resides. "I am left wondering what options are available to me now," she pondered, after having her passport taken away. With no legal means of leaving the country, she may have to turn to smugglers to help her escape to Taiwan by boat. However, she is concerned about leaving her elderly grandmother behind, who is unable to care for herself. The uncertainty of ever being able to return weighs heavily on her mind. Fortunately, there are groups of volunteers providing financial support to protesters seeking to flee the country. A 48-year-old social worker shared that she had personally funded the journeys of 11 protesters to Taiwan. The social worker, who does not have children of her own, expressed a sense of duty to assist young people and fight against totalitarianism. Despite the risk of legal consequences, she has been raising funds for protesters since July, particularly helping a 17-year-old who was expelled from his home by his parents for participating in demonstrations. She prefers to receive cash donations in person to avoid potential surveillance by undercover police officers. She mentioned that the majority of Hong Kong residents are not happy, rejecting Beijing's claim that the protests are being instigated by a small group of radical youths influenced by the USA. She emphasized that support for the protests comes from people from all walks of life. In Taiwan, protesters typically enter through regular channels and are granted monthly visas, which can be renewed. Daniel, a 22-year-old protester, has been in Taiwan since July on an extended tourist visa. He described his early involvement in the movement as "fairly radical," including storming the legislative building in Hong Kong, where his face was caught on surveillance footage. The next day, two police officers approached him on the sidewalk and informed him that they knew who he was. Daniel admitted that this encounter made him face the reality that he could no longer stay at home. Despite avoiding arrest, he feels uneasy as he suspects his phone has been hacked and he is being followed. He relies on a monthly stipend from an aid group in Hong Kong to cover his living expenses, but worries that it may not be enough in the long run. The stress has caused him to seek help from a psychologist, who identified post-traumatic stress disorder. Daniel stated that the most difficult aspect is the longing he experiences for everything he abandoned. Prior to leaving, he described breaking down in tears while standing at the foot of his home's staircase. This is a memory that constantly replays in his mind. He expressed his realization that he may never return to Hong Kong to see his home or mother again. Text from approximately 2019 belonging to The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Last month, during the conflict in the northern Tigray region, DBL's compound experienced an explosion that caused damage to the factory's windows, significantly impacting its business operations. A company official, Abdul Waseq, mentioned that all they could do at that moment was pray aloud, as they were at risk of losing their lives. Ethiopia has been investing heavily in infrastructure and industrial development in an effort to boost its economy and transition from an agrarian society to a manufacturing hub. In 2017, Ethiopia was recognized as the world's fastest growing economy. A year after assuming office, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed promised to reduce the government's control over an economy of more than 100 million people and open up sectors like telecommunications, generating excitement among investors reminiscent of the glasnost era. However, over the past two years, Ethiopia has faced numerous challenges including ethnic conflicts, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The recent outbreak of violence between the military and Tigray's former ruling party, along with concerns about prolonged unrest, have caused investors to reevaluate their optimism. The country's efforts to boost manufacturing exports have not yet generated enough foreign currency to cover imports and debt service costs, making investors wary. Even before the pandemic, the IMF had warned that Ethiopia was at high risk of debt distress. Abiy's government stated that despite facing crises, Ethiopia is continuing with reforms that will lay the groundwork for a modern economy. Mamo Mihretu, a senior policy adviser in the prime minister's office, highlighted the country's economic resilience in the face of challenges like COVID and ongoing insecurity. Ethiopia's textile production is relatively small compared to other countries like Vietnam and China, but the country's focus on the industry in recent years reflects its ambitions in manufacturing. Ethiopia's main exports include agricultural products like coffee, tea, spices, oil seeds, plants, and flowers. As the fighting approached the regional capital of Tigray, Mekelle, textile companies started closing down and evacuating their staff. Cristiano Frati, an electrician evacuated from a factory owned by the Italian hosiery chain Calzedonia, expressed concern that they may not be able to leave as the conflict drew nearer to the city. Calzedonia announced on November 13 that they had suspended operations at the plant, which employs around 2,000 people, because of the conflict. The company has not provided any further comments on the situation. A broad perspective displays the Hawassa Industrial Park in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples region of Ethiopia on November 17, 2017. Meanwhile, DBL has evacuated its overseas employees from Ethiopia. M.A. Jabbar, the managing director, expressed concerns about the uncertainty caused by the ongoing conflict and questioned when it will come to an end. Another international company, Velocity Apparelz Companies, which supplies to H&M and Children's Place, has also temporarily closed down according to a company official who spoke to Reuters. H&M expressed their concern over the situation and stated that production has stopped at their three suppliers in Tigray. However, they mentioned that they will continue to work with Ethiopia as they have a total of 10 suppliers in the country. Indochine Apparel, a Chinese company that supplies Levi Strauss & Co, reported that their operations in the Hawassa industrial park in southern Ethiopia are unaffected. Levi Strauss stated that they are monitoring the situation closely and have not experienced any disruptions to their supply chain so far. Ethiopia's clothing industry was already facing challenges prior to the conflict in Tigray due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many factories struggled to survive due to decreased orders, resulting in wage cuts and layoffs. This downturn was not exclusive to the garment sector, as insurance companies had already ceased coverage for political risks beyond specific regions of Ethiopia. A risk consultant working with corporate clients described the current situation in Ethiopia as bleak. The consultant, like many others interviewed by Reuters, chose to remain anonymous due to concerns about potential retaliation from the government. Abiy's attempts to improve a restrictive political environment had led to increased ethnic conflicts even before the conflict in Tigray. The violence that escalated in 2019 in various parts of the country had caused disruptions to projects, particularly in agriculture. The head of an agri-industry project that had to postpone its investment last year mentioned, "The fighting began just as we were preparing to start planting." Employees are sewing garments at the Indochine Apparel textile factory in Hawassa Industrial Park in Ethiopia's Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples region on November 17, 2017. IKEA, a Swedish furniture company, established a purchasing office in Ethiopia in the previous year but closed it in September due to challenges related to the political and social climate, COVID-19, and changes in the cotton market in Africa. Additionally, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, a bottling partner of Coca-Cola, reported to Reuters that the conflict in Tigray, which represents 20% of its sales in Ethiopia, has disrupted its operations in the country. This setback follows delays in the construction of two new bottling plants as part of a $300 million investment plan announced the year before, attributed to the pandemic and an increase in excise taxes. With the capture of Mekelle recently, Abiy announced triumph over Tigray's previous ruling party (TPLF). Abiy's adviser Mamo mentioned that the quick and resolute conclusion of the military mission will alleviate any worries among investors about political instability. Despite the TPLF's determination to continue fighting, the government must be extremely careful. Ethiopia's foreign debt has increased significantly in the last ten years due to heavy borrowing, particularly from China, for infrastructure and industrial projects. Foreign direct investment inflows have been decreasing consistently since reaching a peak of over $4 billion in 2016, dropping to approximately $500 million in the first quarter of the current fiscal year. Inflation is currently at a level of around 20%. Finding a solution to this situation is challenging, as obtaining additional funds from the IMF or accessing the markets are not viable options. Menzi Ndhlovu, a senior country and political risk analyst at Signal Risk, an Africa-focused business consultancy, stated that the best hope for Ethiopia is a global economic recovery next year. Despite ongoing unrest, Ethiopia made significant advancements this year with the passing of a landmark investment law and currency reforms. The government is also moving forward with plans to liberalize the telecommunications sector by opening tendering for new telecoms licenses and selling a minority stake in Ethio Telecom. Companies interested in investing in Ethiopia are not discouraged by the current situation, as these developments are expected to inject much-needed dollars into the struggling economy. However, Ethiopia's ambitious plans for manufacturing have been hindered for the time being. Waseq from DBL, who has now gone back to Bangladesh, questioned who would be willing to invest in such circumstances, stating that no one would. | 2 |
In its highly anticipated announcement, Aramco, the most profitable company in the world, did not provide many details regarding the number of shares to be sold, pricing, or the launch date. According to bankers, investors are expected to value the company at approximately $1.5 trillion, which is lower than the $2 trillion valuation initially suggested by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman four years ago. Aramco also did not address the security measures it has implemented following the unprecedented attacks on its oil facilities in September. Sources have indicated that the oil company may offer 1%-2% of its shares on the local stock exchange, potentially raising between $20 billion and $40 billion. If the deal exceeds $25 billion, it would surpass the record set by Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba in 2014. During a news conference at the headquarters of Aramco in Dhahran, Chairman Yasir al-Rumayyan stated that today presents a great opportunity for new investors to benefit from the company's ability to create value and enhance it in the long run. The company plans to engage with investors over the next 10 days to gauge interest before determining the price range for the IPO. The goal of the IPO is to support Prince Mohammed's economic reform agenda by raising funds to develop non-energy industries and diversify revenue sources. Rumayyan mentioned that a decision regarding an international listing for Aramco shares will be made in the future, with no specific timeline or location provided. Gary Ross, CEO at Black Gold Investors, noted that selling a portion of Aramco in a limited market allows the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to maintain control and potentially increase the company's value beyond its fair market value. The confirmation of the sale of shares in the oil giant, formally known as Saudi Arabian Oil Co, was announced approximately seven weeks after the damaging attacks on its oil facilities. This highlights Saudi Arabia's determination to proceed with the listing despite the attacks. Amin H Nasser, president and CEO of Saudi Aramco, made these statements during a news conference at the Plaza Conference Center in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia on November 3, 2019. Aramco stated that the September 14 attack, which targeted key plants in Saudi Arabia's oil industry and initially cut its production in half, would not significantly impact its business, operations, or financial condition. According to Aramco, the company accounted for about one eighth of the world's crude oil production from 2016 to 2018. According to Reuters calculations, in the third quarter of 2019, its net income was $21.1 billion, which far exceeded the income of other oil giants like Exxon Mobil Corp, which was just over $3 billion for the same period. Rumayyan stated that the valuation would be determined after the investor roadshow. CEO Amin Nasser announced that Aramco plans to release the prospectus on Nov. 9. Saudi Arabia is using easy credit for retail investors and large contributions from wealthy locals to help secure the deal. Rory Fyfe, managing director at Mena Advisors, mentioned that even with strong pressure on domestic investors to participate, international investors are still expected to value the deal below Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's expectations. The Saudi stock market experienced a 2% decline on Sunday following the Aramco announcement, with the benchmark index dropping nearly 20% since May as local institutions sold shares to prepare for the Aramco deal, according to fund managers and analysts. Salah Shamma, head of investment, MENA, at Franklin Templeton Emerging Markets Equity, suggested that some local investors may be selling other shares to reallocate funds to Aramco, but this could result in short-term losses for long-term gains. To reassure investors, Aramco announced on Sunday that the state will waive its right to receive a portion of cash dividends on shares, giving priority to new shareholders. Additionally, Aramco is reducing the royalties it pays to the state. Starting on January 1, 2020, a new royalty scheme will be implemented by a company, with varying rates depending on the price of oil. The Saudi market regulator approved the company's application to list on Sunday, and non-resident institutional foreign investors are exempt from subscribing. Saudi investors may receive bonus shares, with a maximum of 100 bonus shares for every 10 allotted shares. Even with a valuation of $1.5 trillion, Aramco would still be worth significantly more than Microsoft and Apple, the world's most valuable listed companies. A 1% sale of Aramco would bring in around $15 billion for Saudi coffers, making it the 11th biggest IPO of all time according to Refinitiv data. Hasnain Malik, head of equity strategy at Tellimer, emphasized the significance of the Aramco IPO in the context of Saudi Arabia's diversification efforts, noting that the proceeds are expected to be lower than the government's dividends from Aramco in the first half of 2019. The long-awaited listing, first mentioned by Prince Mohammed in 2016, has involved the collaboration of 27 banks, including Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, JPMorgan, and Morgan Stanley. Despite initial plans for a significant international listing, the share sale was postponed last year due to uncertainties regarding the listing location. Rumayyan expressed the belief that the current timing is ideal for taking Aramco public. Aramco announced that the IPO timetable was postponed due to the process of acquiring a 70% stake in Saudi Basic Industries Corp. The preparations for the IPO resumed in the summer following a successful international bond sale by Aramco, which was seen as a way to build relationships with potential investors before the IPO. The expected listing announcement on Oct 20 was delayed as advisers needed more time to secure cornerstone investors, according to three sources. The increasing focus on fighting climate change and adopting "green" technologies has caused some fund managers in Europe and the United States to shy away from the oil and gas sector. In April, a bond sale forced Aramco to disclose its finances for the first time, revealing a net income of $111 billion, which is more than a third larger than the combined net income of the top five oil majors. These companies have been increasing payouts to shareholders to address growing pressure from climate activism. Aramco announced on Sunday its plan to pay out total ordinary cash dividends of at least $75 billion in 2020. With a valuation of $1.5 trillion, this would result in a dividend yield of 5%, which is lower than the dividend yield offered by competitor Royal Dutch Shell. Refinitiv data shows that Shell's dividend yield is more than 6%. | 2 |
Classes were cancelled for Wednesday and Thursday in the Midwest, including Chicago, one of the largest school systems in the nation. Police warned of the increased risk of accidents on icy highways. Michigan announced that state offices would remain closed through Thursday. The US Postal Service, known for its dedication to delivering mail in all conditions, halted deliveries in parts of the Dakotas through Ohio. Several deaths have been reported in Michigan, Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota due to extreme cold weather since Saturday. Illinois State Police rescued 21 people stranded on a charter bus that broke down in sub-zero temperatures along Interstate 55 near Auburn. A 70-year-old man was discovered deceased on a residential street in Detroit, as confirmed by a Detroit police spokesperson. In the nearby community of Ecorse, a former city councilman in his 70s was also found dead while wearing sleepwear, according to local police. Additionally, a University of Iowa student, identified as Gerald Belz, was found deceased outside a campus building early on Wednesday, with the school attributing his death to the weather. In Chicago, the frigid temperatures reaching 18 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (minus 28 Celsius) kept the streets nearly deserted, with very few individuals braving the cold air. "It's awful!" exclaimed 68-year-old waiter Pasquale Cappellano, smoking a cigarette while waiting for a bus on Chicago's North Side. "I have to go get my medication at Walgreens or I wouldn't have left the house." Meanwhile, in Minneapolis, where temperatures dropped to minus 14 F (minus 26 C), Brian Pierce decided to brave the cold and observe cars sliding on the icy roads. "The roads sound strange, it feels like there's no traction," he noted. "My teeth are in pain." TRAVELING EAST Wind-chill temperatures in certain areas of the Northern Plains and Great Lakes dropped to as low as minus 42 F (minus 41 C) in Park Rapids, Minnesota, and to 31 degrees below zero F (minus 35 C) in Fargo, North Dakota, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). The freezing winds made their way to the U.S. East Coast later in the day, causing temperatures to plummet. Over a thousand flights, nearly two-thirds of those scheduled, were cancelled on Wednesday at Chicago O'Hare and Chicago Midway international airports, as reported by the flight tracking site FlightAware. Amtrak also cancelled all trains in and out of Chicago on Wednesday. Annie Carlson reported that her horses and sheep at Morning Joy Farm in Mercer, North Dakota were doing well, with the option to go into the barn for warmth. Her chickens, ducks, and guinea hens were also enjoying the 70-degree F (21 C) temperature inside their hoop house. Meteorologist Andrew Orrison noted that International Falls, Minnesota recorded some of the coldest wind chills at minus 55 F (minus 48 C). Even the South Pole in Antarctica experienced warmer temperatures than usual, with an expected low of minus 24 F (minus 31 C) with wind chill. Chicago's temperatures were expected to drop significantly on Wednesday night, potentially breaking the record low of minus 27 F (minus 33 C) set on Jan. 21, 1985. Banks and stores closed for business, and Waste Management Inc cancelled trash pickups in counties across the Midwest. The extreme cold was caused by a disruption of the polar vortex, a stream of air that normally spins around the stratosphere over the North Pole but had shifted south. Authorities in the Midwest have established warming centers to help those in need during the cold weather, with Chicago even opening police stations as shelters. In addition, city buses have been converted into mobile warming centers for the homeless, and police are distributing hats, jackets, and blankets. The Chicago Police Department is encouraging people to seek warmth but will not compel anyone to do so. Energy analysts predict that US homes and businesses will use unprecedented amounts of natural gas for heating on Wednesday. Xcel Energy requested residents north and northwest of the Twin Cities in Minnesota to lower their thermostats to 60 F (16 C) due to strains on the natural gas supply system. The Michigan Agency for Energy announced that utility companies in the state would not cut off gas or electric supplies to customers with overdue bills for the remainder of the week. (Source: New York Times News Service, 2019) | 2 |
Harper Lee's novel "To Kill A Mockingbird" unexpectedly became a classic and influenced the way her hometown of Monroeville, Alabama, viewed its history. The book attracted tourists to the town and sparked discussions about the impact of racial segregation in the south. The story follows two children in a fictional southern town, similar to Monroeville, whose father, an attorney, defends a black man accused of raping a white woman. Even though the man is not guilty, he is found guilty by a jury made up entirely of white people. Some of the most impactful scenes in the book occur when the children understand that their father's battle was ultimately futile. Released in 1960, it quickly gained popularity, winning the Pulitzer Prize and selling over 30 million copies. The film adaptation, featuring Gregory Peck, is considered a classic. However, the sales figures only provide a partial picture of the book's impact. American readers frequently name it as their preferred novel. In a survey, it was ranked just behind the Bible in terms of books that had a significant impact on readers. The Library Journal declared it the best novel of the 20th century. Each spring, numerous tourists visit Monroeville to see sites related to Harper Lee's life, the book, and the courthouse featured in the movie adaptation. Additionally, they attend a stage production of the novel. Act One is situated outdoors at the court grounds, while Act Two shifts the audience and actors indoors to the authentic oval-shaped courthouse depicted in the book and film. This setting enables the unfolding of the drama with the audience, judge, lawyers, and defendant assuming their respective roles as they would in a genuine trial. The black cast members are restricted to the gallery, mirroring the segregation of the time. Spectators are captivated by witnessing injustice, adding to the intrigue. The volunteer actors find the annual productions to be a valuable opportunity to contemplate the message of the book. Robert Champion, a detective with the Monroeville police department who portrays Boo Radley in the novel, emphasized that the role has taught him not to judge people. He believes that one of the key lessons from the story is the importance of being tolerant towards others while also being intolerant of injustice. Champion prepared for his role by speaking with individuals who were familiar with the real-life inspiration behind Boo Radley. According to Jane Ellen Clark from the Monroeville County Heritage Museum, Harper Lee may have drawn inspiration for her story from an actual rape trial that occurred in Monroeville's old courtroom. The trial involved Walter Lett, a black man who was wrongly accused of raping a white woman in 1934. Despite being sentenced to death, new evidence suggests that Lett was falsely accused, as white citizens wrote anonymously to the governor of Alabama to plead for his innocence. Clark stated that Lett's sentence was changed to life in prison, and he passed away in 1937 from tuberculosis while in a state prison. George Thomas Jones, a former businessman who now writes about local history, was classmates with Lee and recalls her as a tomboy similar to the character of Scout in the novel. Jones, who is now 81 years old, mentioned that he understands why all-white juries during that time period would have found the accused guilty in such cases. He explained that individuals who supported black people were often labeled as 'nigger lovers,' and regardless of the situation, they would have faced social and economic repercussions. Jones stated that during the 1920s and 1930s, relationships between blacks and whites were, in some aspects, better than they are now, despite the injustices faced by blacks. He believed that the social climate of that time was misunderstood, as there was mutual respect and fewer racial problems. According to Jones, people who were genuinely good on both sides did not have trouble getting along. Although Alabama was a major battleground for the civil rights movement, Monroeville quietly desegregated its public facilities. Residents noted that the most significant change was in school desegregation. Mary Tucker, who arrived in the town in 1954 and taught at both black and integrated schools, stated that the absence of protest did not indicate that blacks were not resentful of segregation. She expressed that although black and white schools were separate, they were not equal. Tucker mentioned that despite the history of segregation and oppression, there were always a few individuals, like Atticus in Harper Lee's book, who strived to be fair and do the right thing. Harper Lee, now 81 years old, currently resides part-time in Monroeville but is seldom seen in public. Tucker described Nelle as humble and modest. He mentioned that she can often be seen in jeans at the grocery store and characterized her as a shy individual. | 2 |
President Donald Trump recently announced guidelines for reopening the economy, indicating that a portion of the United States could soon return to a state of normalcy. However, the administration's optimistic outlook on the crisis and the future contrasts with the opinions of medical advisers and scientists. The ultimate outcome of the crisis remains uncertain, and experts in public health, medicine, epidemiology, and history have differing opinions on when we can safely leave our homes. How long will it realistically take before a treatment or vaccine is developed? How can we prevent the spread of the virus? Many believe that American innovation can lead to advancements that will help alleviate the challenges. The key to moving forward successfully involves several factors that may be challenging but achievable, such as a cautious reopening strategy, widespread testing, an effective treatment, sufficient resources for healthcare workers, and ultimately a successful vaccine. However, despite these efforts, there are still pessimistic predictions for the coming year. The narrative being presented by Trump in his daily press briefings, that the lockdowns will soon end and life will return to normal, is unrealistic according to most experts. They predict a bleak future of prolonged confinement indoors, with the possibility of vulnerable populations being quarantined for an extended period. There are concerns that a vaccine may not be readily available, that people will grow tired of restrictions and ignore the risks, and that the virus will continue to be a threat for the foreseeable future. Despite some optimism that the virus may subside in the summer and a vaccine may be developed, the general outlook remains grim. "I am becoming more cautious of my inherently hopeful outlook." Many professionals predicted that after the crisis, the country and its economy would rebound rapidly. However, there will inevitably be a difficult period ahead. The outcome of the pandemic will be influenced by future medical advancements and the actions of individual Americans in the meantime. If we diligently take precautions to protect ourselves and our families, more people will survive. If we fail to recognize the true threat of the virus, it will impact us. The number of deaths from COVID-19 in the US may be higher than what is being reported by the White House. The virus has been responsible for the deaths of over 1,800 Americans daily since April 7, possibly even more than what is officially documented. In comparison, heart disease and cancer, which are leading causes of death in the US, typically claim fewer lives daily than COVID-19. The coronavirus curves are leveling off, with a decrease in hospital admissions and COVID-19 patients in intensive care units in New York, the epicenter of the epidemic. While the daily death toll remains high, it is no longer increasing. The epidemiological model used by the White House, created by the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, initially forecasted 100,000 to 240,000 deaths by midsummer, but now predicts 60,000. View of New York City from Weehawken, New Jersey on April 16, 2020. The New York Times reported that although there is some positive news regarding the epidemic, there are still major concerns. The institute's projection only covers the first wave of the virus until August 4, and without a vaccine, it is expected to continue circulating for years, leading to an increase in the death toll over time. The progress made so far in combating the coronavirus has been due to the country being shut down, but this cannot last forever. The White House's plan to gradually reopen will likely increase the number of deaths, no matter how cautious the approach. The goal is to keep fatalities to a minimum, although long-term projections show a grim outlook. Experts believe that without intervention, the virus could infect up to 65% of Americans and result in the deaths of 1.7 million people. According to a model created by researchers at Imperial College London, the president stated on March 30 that there could be 2.2 million deaths in the US by September in similar circumstances. In comparison, around 420,000 Americans died in World War II. The data from China is not promising, as their epidemic has been temporarily stopped and almost all those infected in the first wave have either died or recovered. China has officially reported approximately 83,000 cases and 4,632 deaths, resulting in a fatality rate of over 5%. The Trump administration has challenged the accuracy of the figures, but has not provided more precise data. Fatality rates are influenced by how overwhelmed hospitals become and the percentage of cases that are tested. A report from the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine indicated that China's death rate was 17% in early January during the chaos in Wuhan, but dropped to 0.7% by late February. Hospitals in cities like New York were on the verge of chaos. Wuhan and New York officials recently had to revise their death counts upwards after realizing that many individuals had died at home from COVID-19, strokes, heart attacks, or other reasons, or because ambulances did not arrive. During fast-moving epidemics, a large number of victims flood hospitals or pass away without being tested by doctors, while those with mild symptoms or who are asymptomatic are never tested. This creates a distortion in the true fatality rate in both directions. Without knowing the true number of infections, it is impossible to accurately determine the lethality of a virus. The CDC has indicated that as many as 25% of those who test positive for the virus may be asymptomatic carriers, but it will only be possible to confirm this once tens of thousands of antibody tests are conducted in the US. Researchers in Iceland suggested that the number could be twice as high. A health worker in Central Park, New York, checked her personal protective equipment in a mirror on April 16, 2020. The New York Times reported that China is also reevaluating its estimates. A study in February estimated that only 1% of cases in Wuhan were asymptomatic, but new research now suggests that possibly 60% were. Our lack of understanding in certain areas is so significant that it would bring epidemiologists to tears. Dr. Anthony S Fauci, the science adviser to the White House coronavirus task force, has emphasized that all models are subject to change when new data becomes available. Interestingly, the inconsistency in data may reveal a positive outcome: the virus could be evolving to cause milder symptoms. Contrary to what is often portrayed in movies, viruses typically become less deadly over time as asymptomatic strains spread to more individuals. Even though the 1918 Spanish flu virus eventually evolved into the seasonal H1N1 flu, the current virus's level of transmissibility and lethality remains unknown. The presence of refrigerated trucks outside hospitals indicates that this virus is more severe than a typical flu season. The lockdowns will eventually come to an end, but the process will be gradual. The exact percentage of Americans who have been infected is uncertain, with estimates ranging from 3% to 10%, leaving the majority of the population vulnerable. According to epidemiologists, it is not safe for a large number of people to come out of hiding until a vaccine or other protective measure is available. If Americans rush back out, there may be a temporary calm for a few weeks before emergency rooms become busy again. Dr. Peter J Hotez warns against believing in the idea that everyone can stay isolated until a vaccine is developed. Tomas Pueyo, who accurately predicted the national lockdown in his article "Coronavirus: The Hammer and the Dance," suggests that after the lockdown, essential parts of the economy can gradually reopen with limited staff. Each epidemiological model predicts a pattern similar to a dance, where the virus will surge whenever there are too many hosts and another lockdown is imposed. The models show curves of increasing and decreasing deaths that resemble shark teeth. Despite measures such as closing stadiums, churches, theaters, bars, and restaurants, quarantining travelers, and restricting domestic travel, the models still anticipate inevitable surges as high-intensity areas could reinfect low-intensity areas. Experts suggest that stricter restrictions can result in fewer deaths and longer intervals between lockdowns. Many models predict that states will eventually implement widespread temperature checks, rapid testing, and contact tracing, similar to practices in Asia. Even President Trump's "Opening Up America Again" guidelines include three levels of social distancing and advise vulnerable individuals to remain isolated. The plan supports testing, isolation, and contact tracing, although details about funding and implementation timelines are not provided. Despite this, President Trump contradicted his own message by encouraging protests against shutdowns in Michigan, Minnesota, and Virginia via Twitter on Friday. China waited until there were no new cases for 14 days in Wuhan, Nanjing, and other cities before allowing them to reopen. In contrast to China and Italy, the US has been more lenient with restrictions, allowing Americans to travel domestically, drive freely, and socialize in public spaces. Despite some restrictions in place, many people are still arranging play dates for children, hosting backyard BBQs, and meeting others through dating apps. This has contributed to the US seeing up to 30,000 new cases of infection each day. Schaffner noted that it is important for people to understand that playing poker while wearing bandannas is not safe. Despite strict measures being implemented, Asian countries are facing challenges in controlling the virus. China has reported around 100 new infections daily and has closed all movie theatres. Singapore has shut down schools and nonessential workplaces, while South Korea is also facing difficulties. Japan has declared a state of emergency recently. Resolve to Save Lives, an organization led by Dr. Thomas R Frieden, a former CDC director, has released detailed criteria for reopening and closing the economy. These guidelines include a 14-day decline in cases, extensive contact tracing, no infections among healthcare workers, and facilities for mild cases. Frieden emphasized the need to gradually reopen the economy and highlighted the importance of working towards achieving these goals. He also discussed how immunity to the virus could create societal divisions between those who have recovered and those who are still vulnerable. Dr David Nabarro, a special envoy on COVID-19 for the World Health Organisation, has predicted that there will be a frightening divide in society. Those who have antibodies will have the privilege of being able to travel and work, while those without will face discrimination. People who are presumed to have immunity are currently in high demand, being asked to donate blood for antibodies and perform risky medical jobs without fear. The government will soon need to come up with a way to officially certify who is truly immune. Dr Daniel R Lucey, a pandemics expert at Georgetown Law School, suggests that a test for IgG antibodies, which indicate established immunity, would be a logical solution. Numerous companies are currently working on developing these tests. Fauci mentioned that the White House was considering implementing certificates similar to those in Germany, where China uses cellphone QR codes connected to personal information to prevent sharing. The adult-film industry in California introduced a similar concept ten years ago, requiring actors to use a cellphone app to confirm they tested negative for HIV in the last two weeks, with producers able to verify this on a secure website. With Americans in lockdown watching immune individuals resume normal activities, experts believe there could be a strong temptation to intentionally infect themselves to rejoin society. Younger individuals, especially, may weigh the risk of contracting a serious illness against the possibility of facing financial hardship and social isolation. Dr. Michele Barry, who heads the Centre for Innovation in Global Health at Stanford University, shared that her daughter, a Harvard economist, believes that COVID-19 parties are necessary for her age group to build immunity and support the economy. This strategy has been implemented in the past, as seen in Cuba's successful containment of its small AIDS epidemic in the 1980s through mandatory isolation camps for those who tested positive. Despite the harsh measures, residents in these camps were provided with their own accommodations, food, medical care, salaries, entertainment, and artistic opportunities. Dr. Jorge Pérez Ávila, an AIDS specialist in Cuba compared to Fauci, stated that many homeless youths in Cuba became infected through risky behaviors like sex or blood injections in order to gain entry. Several of them died before antiretroviral therapy became available. Similarly, American youths would also be taking a risk if they engage in such behaviors. It is not only the obese and immunocompromised individuals who are at risk, as even slim and healthy young Americans have succumbed to COVID-19. The virus can be controlled, but only with increased resources. According to experts, the next two years will involve periods of progress followed by setbacks. As more individuals with immunity return to work, the economy will gradually improve. However, if there is a sudden surge in infections, new lockdowns may be necessary. To prevent this, widespread testing will be crucial. Dr. Fauci has indicated that the virus will indicate when it is safe to resume normal activities. He is suggesting that by implementing a widespread national testing program, any increase in viral spread can be identified when the percentage of positive results increases. Detecting rising fevers through Kinsa's smart thermometers may provide an early warning sign, according to Schaffner. However, there have been ongoing issues with diagnostic testing, despite promises from the White House. To effectively control the virus, experts argue that all sick individuals, even those with mild symptoms, must be isolated. In this nation, individuals who receive a positive test result are instructed to remain at home but avoid contact with their families. The media has shown various public figures, such as CNN's Chris Cuomo, recovering in isolation in their homes. However, Cuomo's situation highlighted the risks of home isolation when he announced that his wife had also contracted the virus. Dr. Bruce Aylward, who headed the WHO team in China, emphasized the importance of quickly isolating all cases as the most crucial intervention. In China, individuals who tested positive, regardless of the severity of their symptoms, were mandated to promptly go to a hospital set up like an infirmary, which was frequently located in a gymnasium or community center equipped with oxygen tanks and CT scanners. Here, they would recover under the supervision of nurses. This approach minimized the risk to families and provided comfort to patients by allowing them to be with others in similar situations. Nurses also organized dance and exercise sessions to boost morale and assist patients in clearing their lungs and maintaining muscle tone. However, opinions among experts were split on the concept of these specialized wards. Fineberg and Lipsitch have differing views on quarantine processes, with Fineberg advocating for mandatory but "humane" methods, while Lipsitch expressing distrust in the government's ability to forcibly remove individuals from their families. Effectively suppressing a virus requires testing all contacts of known cases, a goal the US is currently falling short of. For example, in China's Sichuan province, each known case had an average of 45 contacts, highlighting the need for more contact tracers. The CDC has around 600 contact tracers, with state and local health departments employing about 1,600, primarily for tracing syphilis and tuberculosis cases until recently. China recruited and provided training for 9,000 individuals in Wuhan. Frieden has projected that the United States will require a minimum of 300,000 trained individuals. The development of a vaccine is not expected to occur quickly. Despite the commencement of limited human trials for three potential candidates (two in the US and one in China), Fauci has emphasized that the process of creating a vaccine will likely take between one to 18 months. Experts in vaccine production have collectively acknowledged that even this timeline is considered optimistic. Dr. Paul Offit, a specialist in vaccines at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, pointed out that the current record for vaccine development is four years, specifically for the mumps vaccine. There is a disagreement among researchers on how to expedite the process. Advances in biotechnology, such as using RNA or DNA platforms, have made it feasible to create potential vaccines more rapidly. However, clinical trials are time-consuming due to the inability to accelerate the production of antibodies in the human body. Additionally, past vaccine candidates for coronaviruses like SARS have caused "antibody-dependent enhancement," making recipients more vulnerable to infection rather than less, for reasons that are not entirely clear. In the past, both HIV and dengue vaccines have unexpectedly had similar outcomes. Typically, a new vaccine is initially tested on less than 100 young, healthy volunteers to determine safety and antibody production. If successful, thousands more volunteers, likely front-line workers at high risk, will participate in a Phase 3 trial where they receive either the vaccine or a placebo. To expedite the process, scientists can conduct "challenge trials" by vaccinating a small group of volunteers, waiting for antibody development, and then intentionally infecting them to test the vaccine's effectiveness. Challenge trials are only used for diseases that are completely treatable, such as malaria or typhoid fever. In usual circumstances, it is considered unethical to expose individuals to a disease without a cure, like COVID-19. However, in the current unusual situation, some experts believe that conducting challenge trials on a small number of Americans at high risk may be more ethical than putting millions at risk for an extended period. Lipsitch, who supports challenge trials, argues that fewer people would be harmed in a challenge trial compared to a Phase 3 trial involving thousands of participants. After publishing a paper advocating for challenge trials, Lipsitch received interest from volunteers, although some individuals were uneasy about the idea. Lucey expressed concern about the ethics of challenge trials, but acknowledged the potential benefits. Vaccinologists warn that challenge trials may not recruit enough volunteers to detect rare but dangerous issues like vaccine enhancement. Michael T Osterholm of the University of Minnesota's Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Policy emphasized that challenge trials may not provide definitive data on safety. Virologist Dr. W Ian Lipkin of Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health proposed testing at least two vaccine candidates in humans before conducting challenge trials in monkeys as an alternative approach. Begin production of the winning vaccine immediately, while also expanding human testing to identify any potential issues. Experts have noted that while testing a vaccine is challenging, manufacturing hundreds of millions of doses presents an even greater challenge. American vaccine plants typically produce only 5 to 10 million doses annually, primarily for the 4 million babies born each year and the 4 million individuals who turn 65. However, in the event of a new vaccine, the US may require 300 million doses, or 600 million if two doses are necessary, along with a corresponding number of syringes. Douglas emphasized the importance of thinking on a larger scale and increasing production in order to meet the demand for flu vaccines. While traditional vaccine plants that use chicken eggs are not ideal for modern vaccines, European countries have their own plants for their citizens and China has a growing vaccine industry that may be able to produce vaccines for the US in the future. Captive customers are required to pay whatever price the seller demands, and there are concerns about the safety and efficacy standards of certain Chinese companies. India and Brazil also possess significant vaccine industries. If the virus spreads quickly through their dense populations, they could reach widespread herd immunity before the US, potentially leading to excess vaccine manufacturing capacity. Another suggestion is for the government to repurpose existing liquor or beer plants with large fermentation vats for vaccine production, proposed by retired medical historian Arthur M Silverstein from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. He stated that any distillery could potentially be transformed for this purpose. Treatments are expected to be available before vaccines. In the near future, experts were more hopeful about treatments than vaccines. Many believed that convalescent serum may be effective. The fundamental method has been in use for more than a hundred years: Blood is taken from individuals who have recuperated from an illness, then purified to eliminate everything except the antibodies. In order to treat patients, immunoglobulin rich in antibodies is administered through injections. However, a challenge arises as there are not many survivors available from whom blood can be collected. In the past, antibodies were obtained from horses and sheep, but this method was difficult to maintain sterility and sometimes caused allergic reactions due to animal proteins. A more contemporary option is using monoclonal antibodies. Experts believe that these treatment regimens, which were almost successful in defeating the Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo, are the most promising short-term solution. The process involves selecting the most effective antibodies and inserting the genes responsible for producing them into a harmless virus that can multiply in a cell culture. However, like vaccines, the production and purification of monoclonal antibodies is time-consuming. If produced on a large scale, they could potentially not only save lives but also protect healthcare workers. The longevity of antibodies varies depending on multiple factors, but they can last for weeks before breaking down and are unable to eliminate viruses that are already hidden inside cells. The idea of a daily preventive pill is considered a more efficient solution compared to vaccines or antibodies, as pills can be manufactured quickly in factories. However, even if such a pill were developed, production would need to be increased to make it widely available for the 300 million Americans. President Trump frequently mentions hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin in his news conferences, resembling infomercials, but experts, including Fauci, caution against making any decisions until clinical trials are completed. Some experts point to the 1950s when inadequate testing of thalidomide led to thousands of children being born with deformities. Multiple studies on hydroxychloroquine have been stopped due to patients experiencing abnormal heart rhythms from high doses. Barry expressed skepticism about the tolerability of high doses and potential vision issues from accumulation, but suggested exploring its potential as a PrEP-like drug for HIV prevention. Dr. Luciana Borio criticized Trump's suggestion of combining chloroquine with azithromycin as "total nonsense." "I informed my family that if I were to contract COVID-19, I do not want to be given chloroquine. Some doctors believe that chloroquine could potentially protect hospitalized patients with pneumonia from deadly cytokine storms by reducing immune responses. However, this does not mean it can prevent infections, as President Trump has suggested, because it does not have any known antiviral properties. Several antiviral drugs, such as remdesivir, favipiravir, and baloxavir, are currently being tested against the coronavirus, with trials in China expected to release results soon. However, these results may be inconclusive due to a lack of patients to test. Trial end dates in the US have not been determined yet." The concept of 'America First' is being left behind as unprecedented societal changes have occurred. Schools and businesses have closed nationwide, leading to millions filing for unemployment. Taxes and mortgage payments are being postponed, and foreclosures are being prohibited. Refrigerated trucks are being used as mobile morgues in Randall's Island in New York. Stimulus checks, meant to help during the crisis, have started being deposited into checking accounts, essentially turning much of America into a temporary welfare state. Food banks are being established throughout the nation, leading to long lines of people in need. Refrigerated trucks are being utilized as makeshift morgues in Randall's Island, New York as reported by The New York Times on April 15, 2020. The current public health crisis necessitates a level of international collaboration not witnessed in many years. Despite this, Trump is taking steps to cut funding to the World Health Organization, the primary organization capable of coordinating such efforts. Additionally, his actions have strained relations with China, which currently boasts the strongest economy worldwide and could potentially become the main provider of pharmaceuticals and vaccines. China has utilized the pandemic to expand its global influence by providing medical supplies to close to 120 countries, including the US through Project Airbridge overseen by Jared Kushner. Experts believe that in the current world scenario, the "America First" strategy may not be effective. Nicholas Mulder from Cornell University suggests that President Trump should consider collaborating with China instead of insulting them in order to enhance public health efforts. Mulder has compared Kushner's project to "Lend-Lease in reverse," a program through which the US provided military aid to other nations during World War II. Osterholm was more straightforward in his response. He expressed concern that if we offend the Chinese with our words, it could have negative consequences for us in the future. For example, if they develop the first vaccine for COVID-19, they may choose not to sell it to us. Once the pandemic is over, the country's recovery may happen quickly, as seen after previous world wars. However, it will be more difficult to measure the psychological impact of the pandemic. Extended isolation and financial hardships could lead to an increase in domestic violence, depression, and suicide rates. There may also be changes in political views. Initially, the virus primarily affected Democratic cities such as Seattle, New York, and Detroit. However, as it continues to spread across the country, no one will be spared. Even voters in Republican-leaning states who may not currently hold President Trump responsible for the lack of preparedness or limited access to health insurance in America could change their perspective if they witness loved ones succumbing to the virus. In a thought-provoking analysis presented in his subsequent article titled "Coronavirus: Out of Many, One," Pueyo examined Medicare and census data related to age and obesity in states that have resisted implementing shutdowns and counties that voted Republican in the 2016 election. His calculations suggest that these individuals could face a 30% higher risk of dying from the virus. In the aftermath of both wars, Mulder observed that society became more equal as measures such as veterans' and widows' pensions, the GI Bill, VA home loans, stronger unions, and reduced tax benefits for the wealthy were implemented. Experts believe that if a vaccine proves effective in saving lives, Americans may become more trusting of conventional medicine and more open to accepting scientific concepts like climate change. It is possible that the clear blue skies seen over American cities during the lockdown period could become a permanent fixture. | 2 |
A woman named Amanda Otero, holding a clipboard, approached Hoch and inquired if she intended to support a ballot measure replacing the Minneapolis Police Department with a Department of Public Safety. Hoch promptly replied that she would not. However, she welcomed the conversation as a distraction and they ended up chatting for almost 20 minutes. Hoch, aged 35, expressed her belief that the proposed change was setting up something positive to ultimately fail. "It lacks sufficient substance," she commented. She was also critical of law enforcement, having known individuals who had experienced mistreatment. Otero felt that they both held similar values. Hoch expressed frustration that something was hindering genuine progress. Otero, the deputy director of TakeAction Minnesota, was an attentive listener as well as a speaker. In the end, she inquired about where Hoch would place herself on a scale of 1 to 10 in favor of the ballot measure, with 10 indicating full support. Hoch initially identified as a three, but later changed her stance to a five. This exemplified the effectiveness of deep canvassing, which involves engaging voters in discussions about their personal experiences and emotions rather than simply providing them with information or materials. The ultimate objective is to not only garner support for a particular policy, but also to influence long-term mindset shifts rather than just focusing on one election or issue. In Minneapolis, efforts are being made to not only gather support for the charter amendment that would change the police department, but also to encourage voters to reconsider the concept of law enforcement, particularly in a city where Derek Chauvin, a former police officer, was convicted of murdering George Floyd, a Black man whose death sparked a movement for racial justice. Deep canvassing, which involves exchanging personal stories and building empathy with those who hold different views, is seen as a slower and more thoughtful approach to political engagement compared to modern campaign strategies like mass texting and social media posts. While many campaigns focus on reaching out to like-minded individuals, deep canvassing seeks to engage with and potentially change the minds of those who may not initially support a particular policy or candidate. Before going out to speak with residents about a Minneapolis ballot measure on Oct 10, 2021, canvassers are given a briefing and split into groups. The focus of deep canvassing is to engage in longer conversations with voters, particularly those who may need convincing. Minneapolis is seen as a key location for testing deep canvassing, as organizers hope to train thousands of people to engage in dialogue with those who hold different views in order to not only sway opinions on policy, but also to rebuild trust in democracy among voters. Organizers use deep canvassing to engage in longer conversations with voters, particularly those who may need convincing. The New Conversation Initiative, led by Steve Deline, focuses on issues like climate, immigration, and jail reform by allowing people to share their thoughts and experiences in a relatable and human way. Advocates believe that in a divided society, deep canvassing can effectively persuade individuals who have not yet embraced progressive changes on various issues. Conversations during door-to-door visits can last up to thirty minutes and often result in both the canvasser and the voter feeling more open and disarmed. George Goehl, director of People's Action, sees progressives as having the ability to introduce significant ideas into national discussions like never before. In order to successfully complete a task, it is essential to engage in conversations with individuals who have differing viewpoints. This type of work is both time-consuming and costly, as training canvassers requires a significant amount of time. The majority of voters do not answer their doors, and those who strongly disagree are often reluctant to engage with strangers. Despite these challenges, in a city like Minneapolis with a population of 2.9 million, a small group of 60 volunteers and staff members have managed to reach 2,400 voters through door-to-door visits and phone calls. Despite the difficulty, this method of persuasion has proven to be successful. In 2009, gay-rights advocates in California pioneered the use of deep canvassing after the state banned same-sex marriage. Three years later, advocates in Minnesota successfully used deep canvassing to defeat a similar ballot measure. This political tactic has mainly been utilized by left-leaning activists. A study in 2016 by researchers at University of California, Berkeley and Yale showed that deep canvassing in Miami and Los Angeles was effective in changing the attitudes of some voters who were hesitant to support transgender rights, by encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences with discrimination. Take Action Minnesota canvassers are currently preparing to engage with residents about a Minneapolis ballot measure on Oct 10, 2021. Take Action Minnesota has implemented deep canvassing as a method to connect with voters while going door-to-door. Goehl's organization also utilized deep canvassing over the phone to try to sway rural white voters in swing states for Joe Biden in 2020, with an internal study revealing its effectiveness compared to traditional canvassing. Canvassers from Take Action Minnesota are gearing up to discuss a Minneapolis ballot measure with residents on October 10, 2021. This year, supporters of the charter amendment in Minneapolis, who argue that Black residents face unfair police targeting, have turned to deep canvassing to first engage voters on racism and then on the call for law enforcement reform, which opponents have simplified to "defunding the police." Changing people's attitudes about race requires genuine human interaction, where individuals listen to understand rather than just to agree. This process is difficult and cannot be rushed, but it is necessary for progress. Despite lengthy conversations about issues like policing, racism often goes unaddressed. During observations of training sessions and voter interactions, racism was not directly mentioned. Interestingly, some white voters indicated they would be more inclined to support certain measures if they knew they had the backing of Black voters. It was only after leaving a white voter's home that it was noticed they supported the Black Lives Matter movement. Maybe she had overlooked an opportunity. However, a pleasant surprise occurred when a woman sitting on the neighboring porch beckoned her over. This woman also had a Black Lives Matter sign displayed in front of her house, as well as a sign with the word "love" written in various languages. Mary Scavotto introduced herself and mentioned that it was her birthday. Otero declined a slice of cake politely and proceeded to begin her presentation. Scavotto had definitely heard about the charter amendment. She expressed her concerns about the idea of completely changing everything without a plan. Having lived on the block for almost two decades, she mentioned that she would consider moving out of Minneapolis if the measure was approved. Scavotto also referenced a gas station that had burned down the previous summer. She remembered how she and her neighbors made sure to remove anything from their porch that could be stolen and used to harm their homes. She mentioned being prepared to leave at a moment's notice with bags packed and gas in the tank. She expressed concern about the impact of reduced police presence on safety, stating that she now hesitates to let her children out after dark. Otero agreed, stating that more police funding has not increased feelings of safety. She also shared her younger brother's mental health challenges and her mixed feelings about law enforcement. Otero, a Latina woman, expressed her dilemma about whether she wants the police to catch her brother in order to get him help, but worries about him having a criminal record and if he would actually receive the help he needs. She also shared her fear for her immigrant husband from Nicaragua driving in Minneapolis. Scavotto, a white woman, listened with empathy and acknowledged the lack of safety people of color feel with the police, recognizing the need for reform. Otero expressed hope that more discussions like this would bring about greater understanding and change. She inquired about what it would take for the people of Minneapolis to unite across age, race, class, and life experiences, especially after a year of trauma. Scavotto responded that it was a difficult question to answer, jokingly mentioning her struggles to get along with her siblings. Reflecting on their conversation later, Scavotto noted how Otero had listened more than she had spoken and committed to attending local forums to gain a better understanding of the charter amendment. She stated that she would not alter her vote at the moment, but mentioned that she is now more willing to consider it. | 2 |
According to a new study, some US bloggers believe that the popular fantasy drama, watched by nearly 20 million viewers, could be a useful tool in raising awareness about climate change. Manjana Milkoreit from Arizona State University explains that these bloggers, including scientists and science communicators, are using "Game of Thrones" to spark conversations about the dangers of global warming. The show is part of a growing trend of TV shows, films, and novels that address climate change, known as "cli-fi." Milkoreit suggests that discussing climate change through the lens of the show can make the topic more engaging and show that there are solutions to this global issue. The climate concerns in the fictional world of Westeros may not seem important to those who are not familiar with it, but they have sparked lively online discussions in the United States about the impact of global warming. Milkoreit, a sustainability fellow, discovered six blogs in 2013 dedicated to the climate in "Game of Thrones," which has since increased to eight blogs. With the fifth season of the show beginning, she anticipates more debates to arise. These blogs draw comparisons between how the people of Westeros react to the threat of winter and how the real world responds to climate change, providing a helpful way to understand the complex issues surrounding climate change and politics. Is it all just fantasy, or are these fears well-founded? Some bloggers compare the White Walkers from "Game of Thrones" to the threat of climate change, while others see the Night's Watch as representing scientists warning about impending problems. Unlike movies like "The Day After Tomorrow" and "Snowpiercer" which directly focus on climate change, the links in "Game of Thrones" may not be as obvious. Academics have different opinions on how well these films portray the issue and inspire action from viewers. Elizabeth Trobaugh, a teacher at Holyoke Community College, believes that these films help raise awareness about climate change. She mentioned that these climate fiction films might simply be viewed as action movies by some movie-goers, but for others, they serve to increase awareness and interest in climate issues. However, Ted Howell, who teaches a climate fiction course at Temple University in Philadelphia, believes that viewers may have misconceptions about the realities of climate change, thinking it will be more dramatic than it actually is. Balancing entertainment with scientific accuracy can be challenging, but Milkoreit believes it is necessary in order to effectively address climate change. She emphasized the importance of engaging people in a enjoyable manner that keeps them interested and motivated to take action. | 2 |
The Pilgrims, who were immigrants to America, celebrated the first Thanksgiving in 1621 in Massachusetts to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. As we gather around our Thanksgiving tables this year, many of us, immigrants or their descendants, are reminded that President-elect Obama will need to address the issue of broken immigration policy. Rather than having a logical immigration system in place, we see sporadic raids by immigration officials on businesses suspected of hiring undocumented workers, leading to deportations that can tear families apart. One of the most contentious aspects of the immigration problem is what to do about the approximately 12 million undocumented immigrants. Many individuals are not expected to go back to their home countries, even in the current challenging economic situation. It is not desirable for them to return either. They are employed in positions that are unpopular among Americans, including high-skill roles like scientific and medical research, as well as low-skill jobs like gardening, car washing, and cleaning. In 2007, President Bush's comprehensive immigration plans did not receive approval from Congress, despite support from Democratic and Republican leaders. The question now is whether Obama will be able to achieve what Bush could not. Obama's proposal is similar to the failed bill, including increased border protection, more visas for new immigrants, penalties for employers hiring undocumented workers, and eventual citizenship for undocumented workers already in the country after paying a fine. While this would be a significant improvement, with unemployment on the rise, if Congress does not pass immigration reform, narrower action could still benefit American labor markets. This could involve authorizing the Department of Labor to determine the number of work permits and temporary visas issued each quarter without congressional approval. The USCIS follows legal guidelines to grant 65,000 H-1b temporary visas to skilled workers, as per the Labor Department's certification. Out of around 630,000 applications approved by employers, only a fraction are selected. H-1b visa holders must leave the US once their employment ends. Despite these figures, many skilled foreign students studying in the US, often with American financial support, are unable to secure jobs in the country. Foreign workers must depart, bringing along their intellectual accomplishments and valuable expertise. Their presence is advantageous for the American economy as they contribute by paying taxes and ensuring the functionality of various establishments such as laboratories, hotels, high-tech exhibitions, and construction sites. If they are forced to leave, these operations will suffer. In 2009, the H-1b visa cap of 65,000 was filled one week after applications began on April 1, 2008, which is a small portion of the U.S. labor force of 154 million. Even if the cap were raised to 150,000, it would still be less than one tenth of 1% of the labor force. This would still result in the majority of applicants being denied admission due to the low likelihood of success. Congress is not well-equipped to constantly change laws based on economic fluctuations, but the Labor Department has the necessary expertise to assess changing labor markets and adjust visa quotas accordingly. It is suggested that Congress should allow the Labor Department to make quarterly decisions on the issuance of visas based on the current unemployment rate. This approach would ensure that visas are adjusted according to the economic conditions without putting strain on U.S. workers or community resources. Allowing the Labor Department to manage visas in this manner would benefit America and potentially help President-elect Obama move past the contentious immigration issues that have divided the country in recent years. This would be a reason to express gratitude next Thanksgiving. Diana Furchtgott-Roth, who previously served as the chief economist at the U.S. Department of Labor and is now a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, shared her personal opinions in this statement. Contact Diana Furchtgott-Roth at [email protected]. | 2 |
It has caused thousands of deaths and overwhelmed hospitals with wartime-like surges, transforming them into triage wards. People now prepare for grocery store visits as if going into battle, wearing masks and gloves. In Europe, which has faced waves of terrorism with similar outcomes, the current pandemic brings haunting reminders. However, this virus instills a different kind of fear as it is invisible, widespread, and lacks a clear resolution. Unlike previous threats, this pandemic is caused by nature, not by human actions or ideological motivations. It has required a distinct response. People react to a terrorist attack by fleeing in fear, then coming together in solidarity. However, when the lockdown due to the new coronavirus is lifted, people will cautiously emerge into the open. Peter R Neumann, a professor at King's College London, noted that people are more scared of terrorism than everyday dangers like car accidents or falling in the bathtub because terrorism feels unpredictable and beyond their control. Neumann explained that while terrorism involves killing people, its main goal is to manipulate our thoughts and interests. The coronavirus is particularly terrifying because it is widespread and cannot be stopped by traditional methods like surveillance or persuasion. Unlike human or ideological enemies, the virus cannot be controlled or understood, making it a source of fear for many. The death toll of the virus has already surpassed that of the 9/11 attacks, and it is expected to continue to rise. Expert Thomas Hegghammer noted that people usually fear man-made threats more than natural disasters, but the virus is an exception to this rule. “It goes much deeper into society than terrorism, and it affects individuals on a much larger scale,” Julianne Smith, a former security adviser to former Vice President Joe Biden and now at the German Marshall Fund, remarked. She noted a similar sense of helplessness brought about by the unpredictability of when terrorism or the pandemic may strike, invading personal lives. Concerns about being in crowds, rallies, and sporting events plague individuals in both scenarios. Joshua A Geltzer, former senior director for counterterrorism on the National Security Council and now a professor of law at Georgetown, pointed out that part of what makes terrorism terrifying is its randomness, a trait also shared by the virus. "It has the potential to prompt individuals to consider, 'I could be a victim.' However, overcoming the virus necessitates a shift in mindset, according to Geltzer. He explained, "When you witness a bomb at the Boston Marathon, you may hesitate about attending next year; the impact is quite direct. But dealing with the virus requires a higher level of awareness - to think collectively, in order to prevent spreading the virus and overwhelming the healthcare system, not burdening others in the process." This situation calls for a unique form of solidarity. Following the terrorist attacks on September 11, President George W Bush encouraged Americans to continue with their daily activities such as flying, traveling, and working. Similarly, after the Charlie Hebdo and Bataclan attacks in 2015, President François Hollande of France demonstrated solidarity by leading marches and public displays of resilience and defiance." However, with many societies ill-prepared for the virus, Geltzer and former Justice Department security official Carrie F. Cordero emphasized that resilience in the current situation means staying at home rather than traveling. This shift from urging calm during times of terrorism to now needing to instill fear in citizens to act for the greater good poses a challenge for governments. Unlike mobilization efforts during terrorist attacks, the current enemy requires people to remain stagnant. While security responses to terrorism often evoke patriotic and visceral reactions, the measures needed to combat the virus, such as staying at home or producing protective gear, lack the same excitement and appeal. Home schooling is not typically associated with patriotic chants like 'USA! USA!'. Governments will find it challenging to adapt their security structures to address threats that cannot be countered with increased military spending and more surveillance. In the past, analysts focusing on non-traditional threats such as health and climate were considered less important, but the current situation has changed that perception. There will likely be new departments dedicated to health security and virologists hired by intelligence agencies, leading to a shift in the concept of security. Furthermore, new threats such as economic collapse, widespread debt, and social unrest may emerge in the future. Many are concerned about the impact of the current low oil prices on Arab and Persian Gulf countries, particularly in relation to paying salaries for civil servants and the military, as well as managing subsidies for bread. However, even the Islamic State group has advised followers not to travel to areas experiencing epidemics. Hegghammer, who lived in Norway during the 2011 terrorist attacks by Anders Behring Breivik, notes that Norway responded with collective solidarity and a sense of communal work, known as "dugnad." This spirit of unity is being seen again during the current virus outbreak, with young people helping the elderly and government and opposition parties working closely together. The virus and the attacks by Breivik are being connected in debates in Norway. However, the criticism is being done in a critical manner, highlighting the government's lack of preparedness in the past and present to handle a major threat. People are questioning how the government could be so unprepared when they have already experienced similar situations. In the aftermath, there will likely be a commission of inquiry in both Norway and the United States to investigate government failures and plan for the future. Unlike Norway, the United States is deeply divided, and the slow-moving crisis of the virus is affecting different parts of the country at varying speeds. This lack of unity is exacerbated by existing political polarization and partisan battles over science and facts. The impact of the virus on society could be similar to the plague in Athens during the Peloponnesian War, leading to indifference towards religion and law and potentially empowering reckless politicians. In the end, she stated, the White House's delayed response undermines the current political leadership and societal practices. If the political repercussions are significant, it could result in the downfall of the imperial presidency and a resurgence of the federal and congressional activism intended by the Founding Fathers. While the virus may cause political divisions, it also serves as a reminder that free societies rely on norms of civic responsibility. | 2 |
There is a concern that focusing on technological advancements may distract us from addressing a fundamental issue: reducing our reliance on cars. After years of prioritizing automobiles in transportation planning, the United States is now facing negative consequences such as pollution, traffic, accidents, urban sprawl, and limited transportation options. Instead of simply replacing cars with different models, we should consider restructuring society to decrease our dependence on them. The author reflects on the potential risks and benefits of placing faith in technology, inspired by Peter Norton's book which highlights the history of unfulfilled promises from car manufacturers and tech companies. In the post-World War II era, various technologies such as radio waves, divided highway engineering, transistors, and repurposed technology from targeted bombs were proposed as solutions to create an ideal automobile society where anyone could drive anywhere, park for free, and avoid accidents. However, these technologies were not successful in achieving this vision, and according to Norton, driverless cars are unlikely to succeed either. Many driverless car proponents now acknowledge that the technology is not yet ready for widespread use on roads. Norton believes that the reliance on high-tech solutions may not always be the best approach. Our health and the health of the planet will see a notable improvement if we transition to electric vehicles. This topic is a key focus at the global climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland. Removing error-prone drivers from the roads could also enhance safety. However, simply improving cars is not a complete solution. Promoting electric vehicles may increase reliance on cars, as stated by Farhad Manjoo in a New York Times Opinion piece. The possibility of driverless cars could lead to an increase in miles driven, potentially worsening traffic and urban sprawl. While Uber and similar services were expected to reduce congestion and decrease driving distances, they had the opposite effect. Moving forward, the focus should be on developing safer and more fuel-efficient vehicles. However, there is also a need to invest in making walking, cycling, and shared transportation more affordable and attractive options. Norton is discussing a concept that may seem like something imagined by Greta Thunberg. The automobile is seen as a crucial convenience, and shifting away from it will be a challenging, expensive, and controversial endeavor. However, it is important to consider making this change because the current transportation system is hazardous and not environmentally friendly, while also consuming a significant amount of public resources. The United States was constructed with the car as a central focus over many years. It was a decision, sometimes a disputed one, that could now be changed. Norton suggested considering what would occur if a portion of the extravagant funds used for driverless car development were instead invested in simpler products and policy adjustments. He proposed altering zoning laws to allow for more residences to be constructed near stores, schools, and offices to reduce the need for excessive driving. Additionally, he praised bicycles and battery-free electric railways as technological wonders that provide greater benefits than any driverless car technology. Speaking with Norton made me reflect on the pros and cons of innovation. We are aware that technology enhances our lives. However, we are also aware that placing too much faith in technology can prevent us from addressing the underlying issues causing our problems. © 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
According to a White House fact sheet released on Saturday, Biden's proposed "Billionaire Minimum Income Tax" would establish a 20% minimum tax rate on households valued at more than $100 million. The tax would primarily affect the United States' over 700 billionaires, requiring them to pay a minimum tax of 20% on all income, including unrealized investment income that is currently untaxed. The tax is projected to decrease the budget deficit by approximately $360 billion over the next decade. Senate Democrats previously suggested a billionaires tax to fund Biden's "Build Back Better" social and climate-change initiatives, but the proposal did not move forward in the Senate due to lack of support. | 2 |
More than 1,000 residents sought refuge inside Tinabanan Cave, climbing 32 feet of slippery soil and limestone to escape the super-typhoon that struck on November 8. Lorna dela Pena, 66, was alone during the disaster, recalling how everything was destroyed by the storm. Despite feeling disoriented, she managed to evacuate to the cave, which has provided shelter since colonial times. She mentioned that stairs were finally added to the cave after the Haiyan disaster, fulfilling her grandfather's dream. While providing hot porridge to evacuees, dela Pena realized the significance of local organizations in enhancing community resilience to extreme weather conditions brought about by climate change. She emphasized the power of unity in helping others, highlighting that collective efforts can achieve what individuals cannot. Inspired by this, she collaborated with others in Marabut to establish women's groups addressing various issues. These groups now spearhead workshops on organic farming, facilitate conversations on gender-based violence, and promote the adoption of renewable energy among women in the community. Azucena Bagunas, 47, and dela Pena are part of a group of individuals called "solar scholars" who were trained by the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) in the Philippines. The ICSC is a nonprofit organization that promotes low-carbon development and climate resilience. Following Typhoon Haiyan, also known as Yolanda, Bagunas and dela Pena learned how to operate portable solar-powered generators called TekPaks in order to better prepare for disasters. These TekPaks are used during evacuations, providing light in dark caves like Tinabanan and charging mobile devices to maintain communication. Bagunas recalled a moment when the TekPak technology helped save a life by powering a nebulizer during an asthma attack. Bagunas and dela Pena are teaching other women how to operate TekPaks and educating them on the advantages of renewable energy. In Marabut, women now ensure their solar-powered equipment is charged before a storm hits so they can evacuate their communities safely. Bagunas emphasized that using solar energy is more cost-effective than relying on coal-fired electricity from the grid, stating that having a solar panel can provide affordable and reliable power without the need to pay for electricity. Bagunas also prefers solar energy as a safer alternative. In June, her brother's house next door caught fire due to a live electricity wire hitting the roof, causing damage to some parts of her own house. According to 2020 data from the Department of Energy, the majority of the Philippines' energy still comes from coal and oil, with only a small percentage from renewable sources. However, the government aims to increase the use of renewable energy, such as solar, to make up half of power generation by 2040. Chuck Baclagon, Asia regional campaigner for 350.org, supports the efforts of ICSC to bring solar power to communities in order to expand clean energy locally. Today's centralized power system, which relies on fossil fuels, is not effective in addressing energy poverty in remote island areas, according to him. He stated that transitioning to solar energy proves that it is affordable and dispels the belief that a transition is not possible. Fossil fuels are expensive due to their imported nature, making them volatile in the market. On the other hand, renewable energy sources like solar are easier to build locally as they utilize what is readily available and have high potential in specific locations. Leah Payud, resilience portfolio manager at Oxfam Philippines, mentioned that her organization supports initiatives to introduce solar energy in poor rural communities, especially to help women and children who are most vulnerable to climate change. She stated that women's unpaid care work and domestic work doubles during disasters, further burdened by the need to find energy sources for these tasks. Women struggle to cook in clean kitchens and lack electricity for tasks like breastfeeding or sanitizing equipment. Therefore, women should be involved in promoting clean, affordable energy as they are the main users and producers. Without their involvement, renewable energy initiatives may not be suitable. Gender justice is essential for climate justice. To introduce women to renewable energy, a good method is to have them create a 24-hour clock detailing their household chores and the energy they use for them, according to Payud. Afterward, they can discuss with Oxfam staff how changing energy sources could help reduce their workload, making the concept more relatable. This exercise has shown that many women spend at least 13 hours daily on unpaid family care work, a burden that has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic due to home-schooling. In energy-deprived areas like Suluan Island, where women have to collect water and are at risk when venturing out after dark, solar lights have proven to be more reliable than oil lamps as they eliminate the need to cross the sea to purchase fuel. Payud stated that solar energy is the most reliable source of power during disasters, especially when the main power supply is disrupted and travel between islands is not possible. She pointed out that after Haiyan, it took six months to restore grid power in remote communities, a situation that could have been avoided if women had access to alternative energy like solar. Dela Pena and Bagunas believe that women should take the lead in addressing climate change and energy poverty because they are typically the first to step in and manage family issues, acting as "shock absorbers". Bagunas added that women are often the ones who try to resolve problems as soon as they arise. | 2 |
Britain has not yet determined its target for renewable energy sources like wind and sun by 2020. European Union leaders agreed to a mandatory target of obtaining one-fifth of all energy from renewable sources by 2020, but did not specify how this target would be divided among member states. The renewable energy industry is concerned that Britain's lack of ambition may hinder progress. The Renewable Energy Association in Britain expressed frustration with the country's attitude towards renewables. Renewable energy is more environmentally friendly but also more costly than fossil fuels, requiring support for research, development, and installation to promote investment and reduce costs. Greene referred to EU data that indicated in 2005, Britain obtained only 1.8 percent of its energy from renewable sources, significantly lower than the EU-27 average of 6.7 percent. Despite committing to the EU target of 20 percent renewable energy, the UK government stated that they are still determining how to achieve this goal. Current policies are projected to reach 5 percent renewable energy by 2020, with the EU target considered ambitious. However, leaked documents suggest that doubling the renewable energy share to 10 percent would require an annual cost of up to 4.4 billion pounds by 2020. The documents indicated that Britain was in favor of a flexible approach, such as reaching targets through a method similar to carbon offsetting. This involves paying another party to install renewable energy on your behalf. EU Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs recently expressed support for a trading approach where wealthier EU countries invest in renewable energy in newer, primarily ex-communist members of the bloc. This proposal received a varied response from renewable energy companies. | 2 |
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi is shifting her career path, moving from a symbol of freedom fighting against Myanmar's ruling military to a leader of a new fragile quasi-democracy. The transition has been challenging. During an event in London in June, a student from the Kachin minority questioned why Suu Kyi, who is from the Burman majority, appeared hesitant to denounce a violent military operation by the government against Kachin rebels, which has led to the displacement of around 75,000 individuals. Suu Kyi's response was carefully impartial, stating, "We want to gather more information before taking sides in this situation." The Kachin community was furious. The Kachinland News website described her response as offensive. Kachin protestors assembled outside her upcoming event in London. A "open letter" signed by 23 Kachin organizations from around the world accused Suu Kyi of supporting government-authorized violence. It might have been unimaginable in April that a woman as respected as her would provoke such anger. A landslide win in a by-election sent Suu Kyi and 42 other members of her party to Myanmar's parliament. Once seen as a fearless opponent of the old regime, Suu Kyi is now facing criticism while also gaining influence as a lawmaker. Despite her growing power in parliament, some ethnic groups accuse her of overlooking human rights abuses in Myanmar's border states. Economists are concerned that the negative assessments of Myanmar's business environment by a prominent figure may deter foreign investors. Political experts suggest that her party lacks substantial policies beyond those of its well-known leader. Additionally, she faces internal discord within the democracy movement she co-founded. Critics from around the world have criticized her unclear stance on the pressing issue of the stateless Rohingya Muslims in western Myanmar, where violent clashes have resulted in numerous casualties and displaced tens of thousands since June. Rejected by both Myanmar and nearby Bangladesh, where 300,000 refugees are currently residing, numerous Rohingya people are living in extremely poor conditions in Rakhine State. The United Nations has described the Muslim minority as having very few allies in predominantly Buddhist Myanmar. The unrest began in June, just before Suu Kyi's visit to Europe for the first time in 24 years. In Norway, a journalist questioned Suu Kyi about the citizenship status of the Rohingya in her country, shortly after she received the Nobel Peace Prize that she was awarded in 1991 while being held under house arrest. Suu Kyi's vague response to the issue of the Rohingya's citizenship status frustrated both the Rohingya community and the locals in Rakhine. This was a departure from the clear moral stance she took in her Nobel speech, where she spoke about the plight of displaced people. As a political party leader, Suu Kyi now employs strategic ambiguity instead of moral clarity. She needs to maintain her popularity among the majority of Burmans and Buddhists, while also not isolating ethnic minorities or citizens of other religions. Additionally, she must navigate her relationship with the highly disliked military, which holds significant power in Myanmar. Her political acumen has been evident to observers of Myanmar since 1988, when she came back to the country after living abroad. Despite facing a harsh crackdown by the military, she became the leader of the democracy movement. Despite spending a large portion of the following twenty years in prison or under house arrest, she continued to inspire the movement. During a lecture at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government in Cambridge, Massachusetts on September 27, she expressed her dislike for being labeled as an icon, stating that she views herself as a politician. Despite being freed from house arrest in November 2010, Suu Kyi declined several interview requests from Reuters. Myanmar's reforms have progressed since her release, leading to the installation of a quasi-civilian government following an election controlled by the military. This year, Myanmar has released political prisoners, relaxed media restrictions, and begun addressing economic issues. The country's transition from authoritarianism is frequently likened to the Arab Spring, but unlike the widespread protests seen in other countries, Myanmar's reforms were initiated by former military leaders like President Thein Sein. A crucial moment in this process was a meeting between Aung San Suu Kyi and Thein Sein in Naypyitaw in August 2011, which marked the beginning of Suu Kyi's constructive interaction with the military-led government. She described him as "genuine" in his efforts to reform Myanmar, which led to US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's trip to Naypyitaw and the lifting of Western sanctions. Being seen as a saintly figure with strong principles can be a hindrance in politics, a realm of concessions and bargaining. Excessive praise can create unrealistic expectations, even for Myanmar's acclaimed "human rights superstar," as dubbed by Amnesty International. Suu Kyi understands this, acknowledging that criticism and backlash are common in the field of politics. Being praised and idealized can also be a risk associated with one's occupation, which is considered less desirable compared to another option. This was written by her 14 years ago. Nowadays, she frequently travels to her parliamentary district of Kawhmu, a poor rice-growing region near Yangon, the country's business hub. During a recent visit, as she rode in an SUV along the bumpy roads of Kawhmu, villagers came out of their homes to applaud "Mother Suu." The issues faced by Kawhmu, such as debt, lack of electricity, and unemployment, are a microcosm of the challenges experienced by Myanmar as a whole. Aung Lwin Oo, a 45-year-old carpenter and member of the National League for Democracy, mentioned that some villages in the area are lacking young people as they have all moved to Thailand and Malaysia for work. Suu Kyi's itinerary for the day included a visit to a Buddhist monastery where she prayed with monks and helped resolve a financial dispute between representatives from two villages. She then had lunch with NLD members at the party's headquarters in Kawhmu, a tin-roofed wooden bungalow, and discussed drainage concerns with local officials. Her new job may not be glamorous, but according to aides, she is thoroughly enjoying it. Win Tin, a long-time confidant and elder of the NLD, stated that she relishes political life to the fullest. She has also been adjusting well to life in Naypyitaw, the newly constructed capital by the junta, residing in a house surrounded by a fence topped with razor wire. The Lower House of parliament is filled with colorful attire worn by many ethnic delegates, creating a festive atmosphere. Sitting next to Suu Kyi is a Member of Parliament from Chin State who wears a head-dress made of boar's teeth and hornbill feathers. On the other side of the chamber, men in green uniforms are predominant. The constitution of Myanmar, which was approved after a fraudulent referendum in 2008, sets aside a quarter of parliamentary seats for military members selected by armed forces chief Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, a protege of former dictator Than Shwe. Suu Kyi's presence in parliament adds credibility to a political system established by the junta that once imprisoned her. Her party has had to change many long-held beliefs in order to achieve this. The NLD refused to participate in both the process of creating the constitution and the 2010 election. The election was manipulated in favor of the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party, which is now in power and the NLD's main opponent in elections. Suu Kyi's group also insisted that the military acknowledge the results of a 1990 election, which the NLD won decisively but was invalidated by the military government. However, her party changed its position to participate in the by-elections in April. Even though the NLD has a small number of seats in the lower house, Suu Kyi ensures that the party has a significant impact. She took the lead in opposing a higher education bill she believed was inadequate, leading to its cancellation in July. She also played a role in removing a provision in a foreign-investment law that would have benefited Myanmar's corrupt businessmen. In August, she was appointed as the chair of a parliamentary committee focused on "rule of law and tranquility," which could increase her impact. Despite her influence, the NLD still aims to reform the constitution to reduce the military's power. It is a challenging task for Suu Kyi to garner three-quarters support in parliament, which includes the support of some military delegates. According to Ohn Kyaing, NLD party spokesman and member of parliament, Suu Kyi is very persuasive, but without the military's assistance, changing the constitution seems impossible. Despite the NLD's recent by-election victory, there is still work to be done to rejuvenate the party and prepare for the upcoming general election in 2015. The NLD was established in September 1988 following a violent military crackdown that resulted in the deaths or injuries of numerous pro-democracy demonstrators. Suu Kyi was detained by the junta before the NLD had even been in existence for a full year, and its members were constantly harassed, imprisoned, and subjected to torture. In 2003, supporters of the government launched a violent attack on Suu Kyi's convoy, resulting in the deaths of many of her followers. She narrowly escaped with her life. The majority of NLD offices were forced to close as a result of the government's actions. When Suu Kyi was released from house arrest in 2010, her party was inactive with old leaders. She worked on revitalizing it by opening many offices herself. Two elderly co-founders, Win Tin and Tin Oo, have taken on more ceremonial roles. The party has grown significantly, with a million members according to spokesman Ohn Kyaing. However, with success comes new challenges. The National League for Democracy (NLD) is planning to host its inaugural national party conference towards the end of 2012 or the beginning of 2013. Protests have broken out in various regions, including Suu Kyi's Kawhmu, regarding who should be allowed to attend the conference. This conflict underscores the tension between longstanding NLD members, who endured years of persecution, and newer members who joined during Myanmar's period of reform. Ohn Kyaing remarked, "The older members are reluctant to relinquish their positions because of the hardships they endured." Additionally, there is a power struggle between the central party headquarters and its branches in remote areas, with local officials accusing their leaders of being domineering or unresponsive. As a result, at least five members have been suspended for either defying or protesting against the party leadership. Suu Kyi leads a Central Executive Committee consisting of seven members, according to current and former NLD members, who believe that her decisions are essentially approved without question. One of these decisions was the NLD's decision in April to not take an oath to uphold and abide by the constitution. Aung Kyi Nyunt, an NLD legislator in the upper house, stated that although imposing her decisions may not be considered democratic, it is not authoritarian because she does not force others to follow her decisions, as they already agree with her. After facing two weeks of opposition and disapproval from her supporters, the "Iron Aunty" yielded and her MPs resumed their positions. The NLD is also facing challenges with Myanmar's revitalized media. One newspaper alleged in May that Suu Kyi's security personnel attacked one of its journalists, an accusation the NLD refutes. Several Burmese-language websites are focused on tarnishing Suu Kyi's reputation, spreading baseless rumors - such as one claiming she has a teenage daughter with a Burmese partner - reminiscent of propaganda from the junta era. The websites, whose owners protect their identities by registering through proxies, were unable to be contacted for comment. The NLD's entrance into parliament has brought attention to a lack of specific policies and experts to create them, which is a significant weakness as Myanmar's government is rapidly creating new laws. When asked by Reuters about the NLD's stance on the Rohingya in Kawhmu, Suu Kyi appeared to suggest that the party did not have a policy on the issue. She stated that it is not solely the NLD's responsibility to formulate such policies, but rather a task that involves the entire country. Suu Kyi's popularity in Myanmar is not as widespread as some Western admirers believe, as she is mainly revered in lowland areas where ethnic Burmans are the majority. In border regions with ethnic minorities who have long been in conflict with the Burman-dominated military, her popularity diminishes. In rural Shan State, which is named after the largest minority group, it is difficult to come across images of Suu Kyi. Despite using her first speech in parliament in July to advocate for increased legal protection for minorities, Suu Kyi still faces criticism from ethnic leaders. One of these critics is Khun Htun Oo, a prominent Shan politician who was imprisoned for nearly seven years by the previous government. According to Oo, Suu Kyi has been rendered ineffective by her involvement in parliament. This statement was made to reporters in Washington just before the two of them received awards from a human rights organization. During her trip to the US, Suu Kyi's trust has decreased after she made a mistake in an interview with CNN. She mentioned having a special fondness for Myanmar's military, which was established by her father, General Aung San. This display of loyalty to her father caused a backlash on Facebook, the primary platform for political discourse in Myanmar. The NLD has long supported calls for a United Nations Commission of Inquiry to investigate reported war crimes and human rights abuses in Myanmar. This initiative has been silently abandoned following Suu Kyi's release. Suu Kyi stated in March that their belief is in restorative justice rather than retributive justice, clarifying that this does not involve prosecuting junta members. Western governments follow Suu Kyi's lead on human rights issues and often use her statements as excuses to avoid taking action on matters of justice and accountability, according to Mark Farmaner of the Burma Campaign UK. He observed that it took over two months for British Foreign Secretary William Hague to address the violence against the Rohingya minority. NLD spokesman Ohn Kyaing stated that Suu Kyi will address the Rohingya issue at the appropriate time, emphasizing the importance of timing in politics. | 2 |
In a short period of time, he transitioned from abstract art to graffiti, a change that intrigued de Kooning, according to Haze, who was raised in Manhattan. She advised him to listen to his artistic inspirations in the moment. By the early 1980s, he joined Soul Artists, a prominent graffiti group in NYC, and displayed his work alongside Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat at MoMA PS1. He also exhibited at the Tony Shafrazi Gallery and later showcased his nonfigurative paintings worldwide. Instead of living as a secluded artist, he started a successful design business with notable clients such as the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, and LL Cool J. In recent years, he has created clothing and spaces for Nike and the Standard Hotel. In 2013, he married actress Rosie Perez and lived a very collaborative and social life. However, everything changed when he began his artist residency at the Elaine de Kooning house in December. He stated that his main goal was to relearn how to paint. He spoke from a studio with a large window wall overlooking the empty woods in East Hampton. Dozens of his newly painted views of the studio, done in shades of gray, stood out against de Kooning's colorful portrait of Haze and his sister on one wall. His earliest abstract paintings, done in vibrant colors as a child under her guidance, were displayed alongside his new portrait of de Kooning, featuring wild hair and intense eyes, with a cigarette in hand. After spending many nights painting until dawn, he felt the spirit of de Kooning guiding him to paint people, starting with himself. It wasn't until recently that he felt ready to paint Elaine, and in the past few weeks, he has made significant progress. Many people, faced with isolation during quarantine, have also found solace in their own creative abilities. Many artists, writers, and composers relish the opportunity to be awarded prestigious residencies in remote locations, even in harsh climates. However, during a pandemic, the additional isolation can be challenging for even the most resilient artists. Pat Phillips, currently on a painting residency in Provincetown, Massachusetts, expressed that the enforced isolation can be difficult for those not accustomed to it. While his long days are made easier by the presence of his wife, fellow artist Coady Brown, community interactions and events have been cancelled, making the experience even more isolating. Dune walks and potluck dinners featuring local clams have been suspended for now. Richard MacMillan, the executive director of the organization, noted that the residents, who were very social this year, are now feeling isolated. Despite this, the organization has decided to continue operating during the quarantine period. Many other residency programs, such as the Studios at MASS MoCA, the Vermont Studio Center, Ucross in Wyoming, the American Academy in Rome, and Watermill Center, have closed. Yaddo in Saratoga Springs, New York, also shut down. However, a few residency programs, including Djerassi in California and Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts in Nebraska, have been able to remain open by implementing new safety measures. Paolo Arao, a Brooklyn artist who recently returned from a three-month residency at Bemis, stated that the previous month had been filled with distractions due to the news. Despite this, he found Nebraska to be a safer place with fewer COVID cases than his home. The Elaine de Kooning House residency, where only one artist stays at a time, proved to be well-suited for sheltering in place. The director of programming, Katherine McMahon, mentioned that the arrangement of having the artist, Haze, work at night while she was active during the day was beneficial in minimizing interactions during self-quarantine. Haze, who often worked long hours on his paintings, would take breaks outside for a cigarette, promising his wife that he would quit when he returned home. “At this moment, any distractions would disrupt my focus,” Haze explained. In early April, amidst the chaos of the pandemic in New York City, the sound of sirens could be heard while an open door to de Kooning’s former studio allowed the peaceful sounds of birds and rustling tree branches to filter in. Haze sat on a stool in front of a recently completed self portrait, reminiscent of de Kooning, with a cigarette in hand, surrounded by a plethora of art supplies including paint, brushes, and cleaning products. He joked about having enough materials to last through any catastrophe. On the wall, his paintings of de Kooning and Kennedy created a reflective effect, bridging the gap between past and present. Close by, he was working on a portrait of his grandfather as a young immigrant. Being alone in his studio allowed him to remember his grandfather and other people from his past vividly. He mentioned that Elaine had been a spiritual influence during this time and that he had developed strong feelings for her. Despite planning to leave the next day, he found himself still painting a week later. He pointed out that Elaine used to say that obsession is a crucial part of the process. This information is from around 2020 and is copyrighted by The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Currently, due to the omicron spike and NBC's decision not to broadcast the Golden Globes because of ethical concerns regarding the organization responsible for the awards, Hollywood's typically busy and hype-filled first week of the year has been significantly quieter. The AFI Awards were delayed, the Critics' Choice Awards were rescheduled in an attempt to fill the gap left by the absence of the Golden Globes, and the Palm Springs Film Festival, a regular event during award season, was canceled. Additionally, many of the movies favored to win awards did not perform well at the box office. The Academy Awards are still set for March 27, with nominations coming on February 8, but it is unknown what the event will entail. The organization has already delayed its annual Governors Awards, which have presented honorary Oscars for the past 11 years in a ceremony not broadcasted on television. It is unclear if there will be a host, audience, or viewers for the event. The Academy hired a producer from the film "Girls Trip" in October to manage the show, but has not provided any further details and declined to comment for this article. The situation in 2022 is starting to resemble that of 2021, with Hollywood once again missing out on its usual season of self-congratulation. This absence of award shows is hurting the film industry's main form of advertisement just when it is needed the most. This could have significant impacts on the types of movies being produced. Nancy Utley, a former co-chair of Fox Searchlight, emphasized the importance of award shows for the box office, as they were crucial for promoting films before the pandemic. The reason for going to see a smaller movie in that area was due to the recognition it received. However, it is difficult to achieve this in the current film industry climate. Many prestigious films are released every year with the hope of earning most of their box office revenue between the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards. The decline of the Golden Globes, which faced numerous issues including financial impropriety and lack of diversity, has already impacted this trend. If the awards season hype in Hollywood fades, it could have a damaging effect on the struggling box office. The significant rise in streaming viewership has led to a noticeable decline in theater attendance, with only major blockbusters like "Spider-Man: No Way Home" attracting large crowds. Stephen Galloway, dean of Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, expressed concerns about the future of the movie industry, noting that people have become less accustomed to watching films on the big screen. He emphasized the importance of award season in promoting the achievements of Hollywood, pointing out that the Academy Awards were established in 1929 for this purpose. At its peak, the broadcast attracted 55 million viewers. However, over the years, this number has been declining, reaching an all-time low of 10.4 million viewers last year. The show lacked a host, musical performances, and featured the little-known film "Nomadland" as its best picture winner. Despite efforts by Hollywood to promote theatergoing as a cultural experience, viewership has not increased. The general public is still hesitant to return to movie theaters regularly, as evidenced by the lackluster box office performances of recent films like "No Time to Die" and "West Side Story." Despite positive reviews, movies like "Last Night in Soho," "Nightmare Alley," and "Belfast" have struggled to attract audiences. Even highly anticipated films like Spielberg's "West Side Story" have failed to make a significant impact financially. The original film made $44 million in 1961, which is equivalent to $409 million today. A recent study shows that 49% of moviegoers before the pandemic are no longer purchasing tickets, with 8% saying they will never return. This decline is concerning for midbudget movies that rely on positive reviews and publicity to attract audiences. Some believe that the midrange film industry, which includes movies costing $20 million to $60 million and are not based on popular intellectual properties, may be permanently altered. If changes in viewing habits are permanent and award nominations and wins are no longer a big draw, it will be much harder for certain films to make a profit. If audiences only want to see the latest blockbuster like "Spider-Man" at the movies, it will be difficult to persuade them to also watch a film like "Belfast," a black-and-white meditation on childhood, in a crowded theater instead of at home. According to Galloway, this not only impacts individual films and filmmakers, but also the entire art form itself. Art is delicate. Out of the other potential best-picture contenders that had a significant theatrical release, only "Dune," a science fiction film based on existing material, surpassed the $100 million mark at the box office. "King Richard" made $14.7 million, and "Licorice Pizza" made $7 million. According to film journalist and historian Mark Harris, no non-genre adult dramas have made over $50 million. The landscape of 2019, where films like "1917," "Ford v. Ferrari," and "Parasite" made significant earnings, is no longer the same. Despite this, studios are adapting - MGM is adjusting its release strategy for "Licorice Pizza" after seeing other high-quality films struggle in wide release. The release of "Cyrano" in Britain starring Peter Dinklage has been postponed to February to coincide with the US release in hopes of attracting older female moviegoers back to theaters. Sony Pictures Classics is utilizing the same strategy as in 2021, with more virtual screenings and Q&As for academy voters, as well as faster home distribution. Their documentary "Julia" about Julia Child was made available on premium video-on-demand during the holidays. While many studios held premieres and parties in early December with vaccination and testing requirements, events in January such as screenings and parties are being canceled or moved online due to the pandemic. Billboards saying "For your consideration" are still common in Los Angeles, but in-person events are mostly on hold. Netflix, known for limited theatrical releases and not reporting box office results, is expected to have a strong presence in the award season with films like "Tick, Tick ... Boom," "The Power of the Dog," and "The Lost Daughter" contending for awards. Like other studios, Netflix has moved all in-person events for January to virtual. Michael Barker, co-president of Sony Pictures Classics, mentioned in an interview that last year was difficult to adapt to, and this year is also about adapting to the current situation. He spoke while walking in Manhattan instead of being in Palm Springs, where he was supposed to honor Penélope Cruz for her role in the Oscar contender "Parallel Mothers." Barker mentioned that you have to do what you can to compensate during these times, and look ahead to what the future holds once things return to normal. | 2 |
"Xi, in a recent visit to Xi'an Jiaotong University, emphasized that great historical progress often follows major disasters. He believes that China's resilience and growth have been shaped by adversity and suffering. Xi, drawing from his own experiences of hardship, sees the pandemic as an opportunity to redeem the party from early mistakes and to bolster national pride amidst international criticism. State propaganda is supporting Xi's leadership in combating the pandemic. As the National People's Congress approaches, Xi aims to translate his calls for unity into action, focusing on restoring the pre-pandemic agenda and eradicating extreme poverty while warning against complacency in preventing a second wave of infections." He must navigate through challenging diplomatic and economic conditions while leading the country, which are said to be as tough as those faced during the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989. According to Carl Minzner, a professor at Fordham University, there is a lot of political risk for Xi if he fails to effectively manage his role as a leader. Xi has positioned himself as the essential leader protecting China from difficult threats, which has garnered support from party members and the public, despite concerns about the mishandling of the outbreak. Jude Blanchette, an analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, believes that freezing time at the beginning of February would have been damaging for Chinese leadership. Xi appeared in public for the first time during the crisis just two days after ordering the lockdown of Wuhan in late January. He led an uncommon televised meeting of the Politburo Standing Committee, China's top political body, during a time when thousands were infected and many had died. According to a detailed report in the People's Daily, the official newspaper of the Chinese Communist Party, he solemnly spoke to the committee about his struggles sleeping the night before the Lunar New Year holiday. Xi also briefly stepped back from his usual dominant role, allowing others to take center stage. Premier Li Keqiang initially took charge of the government's emergency response during the crisis, possibly to shield himself from blame if the situation worsened. As China brought the outbreak under control, the party's propaganda shifted back to focus on Xi Jinping, pushing Li into the background. Despite delivering the keynote report to the National People's Congress, Xi is expected to dominate media coverage and provide guidance to provincial leaders and delegates. There is little indication that Xi has been humbled by the early failures in the country's response to the disease or by international criticism. Xi claimed at the World Health Assembly that China has consistently acted with transparency and responsibility. Xi has cautioned that China is dealing with a world that is becoming more uncertain. Despite his optimistic outlook for the future, he has also issued warnings about the possibility of an economic crisis, foreign conflicts, or political instability. In a recent address to the Politburo Standing Committee, he emphasized the need to prepare for prolonged changes in global conditions, especially in light of the current international epidemic and economic challenges. One of the biggest obstacles facing China is its economy, which recently experienced its first contraction in over forty years. The increasing wealth of millions of Chinese people has long been a key factor in the Communist Party's authority. Recently, during visits to three provinces, Xi has focused on returning to the policy agenda that was in place before the coronavirus pandemic. Xi traveled to Zhejiang, Shanxi, and Shaanxi, wearing his usual dark blue windbreaker and a mask indoors, and visited various locations such as factories, ports, government offices, and scenic spots in an effort to bring life back to normal while implementing new measures to prevent infection. In rural villages, he has shown particular interest in crops like wood ear fungus and chrysanthemum, which are important for his poverty alleviation efforts. He informed a lively group of villagers in Shaanxi that the wood ear fungus they produce is well-known and can help lift them out of poverty. Despite the Communist Party's carefully crafted image of China overcoming the epidemic, footage of Xi's visit to Xi'an Jiaotong University revealed that life is still far from normal. The enthusiastic crowd of students and professors who greeted Xi appeared to have been arranged, as the university was mostly closed. Xi humorously pointed out that school had not yet resumed, yet everyone was there to welcome him. | 2 |
Changla Mro and other women of the Mro ethnic group used to have to trek for hours through dangerous terrain to collect water, facing threats from snakes, wild pigs, and fishing cats. However, since a water collection and treatment system was installed in their village a year ago, serving about 21 families in Bandarban district, these dangers have become a thing of the past. Changla Mro explained that two women were bitten by snakes while collecting water at night before the system was in place, but now they no longer fear such attacks. The increasing demands on the world's limited fresh water supply due to factors like deforestation, climate change, and population growth are a global concern. The focus is on developing new techniques to capture and preserve water in order to maintain consistent supplies year-round. In Bandarban, women collect water from the local water treatment facility. Water scarcity is a major issue in the Hill Tract area of Bangladesh due to deforestation, resulting in decreased water retention in the soil and shortages during the dry season, particularly affecting the Mro community in Bandarban, Rangamati, and Khagrhachharhi districts. Kangchag Mro, 50, used to spend hours searching for water in springs and streams, fearing waterborne diseases like diarrhoea and cholera. Now, clean drinking water flows from taps at the community's water treatment plant, a small concrete building topped with corrugated iron. She explained that collecting water in the hilly area was difficult, but the water plant has made their job easier. The water plant is supplied by a hillside reservoir located 500 meters away, funded by the Arannayk Foundation, a joint forest conservation initiative of the Bangladesh and US governments. The artificial reservoir gathers water from the hills, which is then transported through a pipeline to a treatment plant where it is purified for household purposes. The efficiency of the gravity flow water system, which eliminates the need for costly pumps, has led to discussions about expanding its implementation. Md Wali Ullah, the chief engineer of the Department of Public Health Engineering, mentioned that the government is exploring the possibility of providing water to additional indigenous communities in the Hill Tract region. Ullah also shared that his department has submitted a proposal to other relevant government departments. In Bandarban, there is a stream running. According to Thomson Reuters Foundation, Mro leader Khamchang Mro has emphasized the significance of forests in collecting rainfall during the monsoon season and gradually releasing it into streams and rivers. The community has been working on conserving forested areas to maintain a steady water supply to springs and canals throughout the year. Khamchang Mro mentioned that they have reforested degraded areas of their village forests, resulting in the forest now being in a healthier condition. Farid Ahmed Khan, who serves as the executive director of Arannayk Foundation, emphasized the importance of local communities safeguarding their forests. Khan cautioned that if forests are damaged, it could lead to a significant water shortage. In Bandarban, women collect water from a community water treatment plant, while a stream flows through the area. | 2 |
The recent riots in Yamuna Vihar have caused lasting divisions in the community, mirroring a national trend of escalating tensions over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist agenda. Many Hindus in the area, as well as other riot-affected districts in northeast Delhi, are boycotting Muslim merchants and workers. Meanwhile, Muslims are struggling to find employment amidst the economic pressures of the coronavirus pandemic. Yash Dhingra, a shop owner in Yamuna Vihar, has made the decision to only hire Hindu workers, citing the violent clashes that occurred in the area during the riots on Feb 23. The riots in the Indian capital, the worst sectarian violence in decades, were sparked by a citizenship law last year that critics argue discriminates against India's Muslim minority. Police reports indicate that at least 53 people, primarily Muslims, were killed and over 200 were injured. Dhingra noted that Yamuna Vihar has been permanently altered by the unrest, with homes destroyed and dangerous conditions in the streets. Hindu residents in the area are now shunning Muslim workers, impacting a variety of professions from cooks to mechanics. Dhingra stated that there is evidence indicating that Muslims initiated the violence and are now trying to shift the blame onto them. He described Muslims as being criminal-minded. These sentiments were commonly expressed in interviews with 25 Hindus in northeast Delhi who experienced financial losses or injuries during the riots. Reuters also interviewed around 30 Muslims, the majority of whom claimed that Hindus were refusing to collaborate with them. Suman Goel, a 45-year-old resident who has lived alongside Muslim neighbors for 23 years, expressed shock at the violence. "It feels odd to no longer feel like you belong, to walk out of your home and consciously avoid smiling at Muslim women," she expressed. "I'm sure they feel the same way, but it's safer to keep our distance." Mohammed Taslim, a Muslim who ran a shoe business from a store owned by a Hindu in Bhajanpura, a neighborhood impacted by the riots, shared that his merchandise was ruined by a Hindu group. Subsequently, he was forced out and his shop was rented to a Hindu entrepreneur, Taslim claimed. "This is happening simply because of my religion," Taslim stated. Numerous Muslims believe that the recent attack was orchestrated by extremist Hindus in response to widespread protests in India against the new citizenship law. Adil, a Muslim research assistant in central Delhi, stated that safety and self-preservation have become the primary concerns for the community, overshadowing career and business aspirations. Adil chose not to reveal his full name due to concerns about potential retaliation. Emboldened by Modi's overwhelming electoral victory in 2014, extremist groups have been pushing for a Hindu-centric agenda that has marginalized the Muslim community in India. Vigilantes have targeted and killed Muslims involved in transporting cows, which are considered sacred by Hindus, to slaughterhouses. The government has taken a hardline approach towards Pakistan and revoked semi-autonomous privileges for Jammu and Kashmir, the country's only Muslim-majority state. The Supreme Court's decision to allow the construction of a Hindu temple at Ayodhya, where a mosque was demolished by a right-wing mob in 1992, was supported by the Modi government. The controversial citizenship law, which makes it easier for non-Muslims from neighboring Muslim-majority countries to become citizens of India, has caused widespread protests among Muslims and secular Indians. Modi's office did not provide a response to Reuters' inquiries regarding the recent violence. In the Delhi districts most affected by the unrest in February, Hindus and Muslims avoid each other during the day but are separated by barricades at night for safety. Some areas are even constructing permanent barriers. Schoolteacher Tarannum Sheikh observed welders installing a gate at the entrance of a narrow lane leading to the Muslim enclave of Khajuri Khas one evening. She stated that the goal was to prevent Hindus from entering. She explained that they carry wooden batons to guard the entrance, as anyone could come into the alley to cause trouble at any moment. She mentioned that they no longer have faith in the police. In the nearby Hindu community of Bhajanpura, residents shared a similar lack of trust and feelings of insecurity. A 52-year-old grandmother named Santosh Rani expressed that the riots were necessary to bring Hindus together, revealing that they had been unaware of the presence of such malicious intentions surrounding them for many years. She stated that she had to lower her two grandchildren from the first floor of her home to the street following the burning of the building in the violence, reportedly by a Muslim. Rani, who owns multiple factories and retail stores, declared that the Muslims had pushed their limits this time and vowed to never employ them again. She expressed that she would never forgive them. Hasan Sheikh, a tailor with 40 years of experience in sewing clothes for Hindu and Muslim women, mentioned that Hindu customers came to pick up their clothes after the riots. Sheikh, who is Muslim, found it strange how their relationship had abruptly ended. "I did not do anything wrong, and neither did my female clients, but the atmosphere in this region is highly charged. Both sides have valid reasons for their hatred." | 2 |
Around the world, chickens and pigs are contributing to reducing global warming, while cows and sheep are lagging behind. These farm animals are major producers of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that is often overlooked compared to carbon dioxide but is crucial in the fight against climate change. Government policies and a UN-supported system of emission credits have become profitable for investors, farmers, and large polluters like power stations who want to offset their greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide. Methane is significantly more potent than carbon dioxide in trapping heat in the atmosphere, and it is relatively easy to capture the gas from sources like animal waste, landfills, coal mines, or leaky natural gas pipes. Climate scientist Paul Fraser from Australia stated that one-fifth of the global warming caused by greenhouse gases can be attributed to methane emissions since before the industrial era. Methane levels in the atmosphere have risen significantly, surpassing natural levels from the past 650,000 years. Human activities are mainly responsible for this increase. The UN's climate panel will be focusing on ways to reduce methane and other greenhouse gas emissions in an upcoming report in Bangkok. Bill Hare, climate policy director for Greenpeace, mentioned that reducing methane emissions may be a more cost-effective solution compared to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. He stated that in the United States, much of the policy discussion has been focused on methane rather than on more complex issues like CO2 emissions from coal. This is because capturing methane from sources such as landfills, mines, fossil fuel production, or natural gas lines is relatively simple and economically viable. Methane is a key component of natural gas and can be used to generate power. However, agriculture presents a greater challenge, particularly when it comes to methane emissions from livestock and rice cultivation. Hare emphasized the need for a balanced approach, as changing agricultural practices may require longer time scales compared to industrial sectors. Rice paddies and other irrigated crops, along with natural wetlands, produce significant amounts of methane. Additionally, methane is stored in large quantities in sub-polar regions, permafrost, and under the sea. There are various options being explored to reduce methane emissions, such as additives for livestock and changing rice paddy flooding techniques. Despite these efforts, the level of methane in the atmosphere has remained stable since 1999, according to Fraser, who leads the Changing Atmosphere Research Group at Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation. This is believed to be happening because the drying of tropical wetlands is offsetting the increase in emissions from the oil and gas industry. It is uncertain how long this trend will continue. Fraser stated that most people agree that methane emissions will eventually increase due to the global demand for natural gas, rice, and cattle. This is why chicken manure and pig waste are valuable commodities. The Clean Development Mechanism, under the UN's Kyoto Protocol, allows wealthy countries to meet their emissions targets by funding projects in developing countries that absorb greenhouse gases, in exchange for carbon credits. This has led to significant investments in large pig farms in South America and poultry farms in India. The waste from these farms is processed in digesters to extract methane, which is then either burned to generate electricity or flared to produce CO2 - a less harmful greenhouse gas. Interest in these projects is increasing, according to N Yuvaraj Dinesh Babu of Carbon Exchange in Singapore, which trades Kyoto carbon credits and facilitates emissions off-setting deals. The Kyoto system of emissions credits has gained popularity, with the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change approving numerous methane-abatement projects in recent years and considering more. However, Stephan Singer of WWF believes this is not the ultimate solution. He suggests that more focus should be placed on reducing carbon dioxide emissions and controlling methane sources that are difficult to manage. Currently, only half of methane emissions are being controlled, such as those from landfills, coal mines, and the oil and gas industry, according to Singer, who leads WWF's European Energy and Climate Policy Unit. Singer is concerned about the rising methane emissions from ruminants, particularly due to the increase in beef consumption in a wealthier world. The Western diet has a significant impact on the environment. In the US, cattle release approximately 5.5 million tonnes of methane annually, making up 20 percent of the country's methane emissions, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency. In New Zealand, approximately half of all greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture. Singer's main concern is the potential sudden release of methane from sub-polar permafrost or methane hydrate deposits under the sea. Although this has not yet occurred, some scientists believe it could happen in a warmer climate. Singer warns that if methane hydrates were to leak, it would have catastrophic consequences. | 2 |
French President Nicolas Sarkozy is meeting with unions on Wednesday in an attempt to reach an agreement on economic stimulus plans and prevent additional protests due to increasing unemployment and declining growth. Over a million people protested across France recently, demanding pay increases and job protection in light of the economic downturn. Unions have planned another protest for next month. Sarkozy's 26 billion euro stimulus plan has mainly focused on public spending projects rather than assisting consumers and workers directly, leading to criticism from unions and the political left. Despite a television appearance following the protests aimed at reassuring the public, Sarkozy's support has continued to wane. In an article in Saturday's edition of Le Figaro newspaper, which is known to be close to Sarkozy, he was quoted as expressing concern over the potential impact on his presidency of the results of his five-year term. The French economy experienced a significant decline in the last quarter of 2008, with GDP falling by 1.2 percent, the largest drop in 34 years. This was attributed to a decrease in exports and reductions in stock by retailers, while unemployment rose by 11 percent compared to the previous year. Strikes have caused disruptions in the French Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, as well as to a lesser extent in the Indian Ocean island of Reunion, with demands for higher minimum wage and lower prices for food and fuel. There are concerns that these protests could escalate in the current tense atmosphere. A recent poll by IFOP for the regional newspaper Sud-Ouest indicated that 63 percent of respondents believed that such protests could soon occur on the mainland. The opposition Socialists are putting pressure on Sarkozy before the "social summit" by proposing a cut in value-added tax and a rise in the minimum wage to boost consumer spending. Despite economists and unions calling for action to increase purchasing power, Sarkozy is hesitant to implement measures that would increase public debt for consumer spending. He argues that the focus should be on investments for the future, rather than short-term stimulus. However, recent GDP figures show an increase in household consumption, indicating that consumers may not need additional encouragement to continue spending. Britain has reduced its value-added tax by 2 percentage points, a move which was criticized by Sarkozy in a television address. This angered Downing Street. Sarkozy has mentioned potential measures such as reducing low-level income tax and increasing unemployment benefits. However, his employment minister and social affairs adviser reiterated their opposition to raising the minimum wage, stating that it is not a viable solution and could lead to businesses going out of business. | 2 |
Japanese opposition leader Ichiro Ozawa resigned on Monday following a fundraising scandal, which is expected to improve his party's chances in an upcoming election. The Democratic Party had been leading in polls, but the scandal has narrowed their lead, making the outcome less certain. Ozawa stated at a news conference that he is stepping down to strengthen party unity and achieve a change in government. The Democrats have promised to reduce bureaucratic influence, prioritize consumer and worker rights, and adopt a more independent diplomatic policy. Ozawa's departure is not expected to change the current political positions, but it may stimulate the LDP to introduce additional stimulus plans to attract voters. A 15 trillion yen spending package is already being processed in parliament. Financial markets showed little reaction to Ozawa's resignation, with the yen slightly lower but mostly unchanged. Aso stated that Ozawa's resignation will not affect the timing of the election, with speculation pointing towards an August vote. "Now that Ozawa has left, Prime Minister Aso may become more proactive in economic stimulus to attract voters, instead of calling for a dissolution of parliament at this time," stated Hidenori Suezawa, chief strategist at Daiwa Securities SMBC. The question of who will succeed Ozawa is expected to enhance the Democrats' electoral prospects, but analysts caution that not all the repercussions of his tenure can be easily reversed. "The situation had become quite challenging. There were complaints about Ozawa," noted independent political commentator Minoru Morita. "This significantly brightens the Democrats' prospects." Ozawa's departure could pave the way for a younger leader to take over, with potential candidates including former party leaders Katsuya Okada and Seiji Maehara. Other possible successors include Yukio Hatoyama and Naoto Kan, who are Ozawa's deputies. Ozawa, known for his campaign skills, has been a significant figure in Japanese politics for nearly two decades. The impact of his resignation on the Democrats' prospects will depend on his replacement and the transition process. This move is seen as essential for addressing the party's image issues. Gerry Curtis, a Columbia University professor and expert in Japanese politics, raised the question of who the Democratic Party will choose as their next leader and how they will make this decision. According to a Democratic Party source, the leader will likely be selected through a vote among party lawmakers, potentially happening within a week or 10 days. A survey conducted by the Yomiuri newspaper before Ozawa's announcement showed that the Democrats still had a slight lead over the LDP, but many respondents questioned Ozawa's earlier decision to remain in his position. Yukihiro Nakagawa, an executive at a precision machinery company, stated that he had planned to submit a blank vote if Ozawa had stayed, but is now leaning towards voting for the Democrats depending on the policies they promise moving forward. Before Ozawa's announcement, a poll conducted by the Yomiuri newspaper revealed that 30 percent of respondents would vote for the Democrats in the upcoming election, while 27 percent would vote for the LDP. Some experts believe that Ozawa's resignation could lead to calls within the LDP to replace the unpopular Aso, but others argue that there is no clear successor and Aso will likely try to retain his position. | 2 |
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