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With the rise of young Prince Mohammad bin Salman to power, the kingdom has experienced an expansion of women's rights, such as allowing women to attend mixed public sporting events and granting them the right to drive starting this summer. These changes have been praised as evidence of a new progressive direction towards modernization in the deeply conservative Muslim nation, although criticism persists over the continued restrictions placed on women. Prince Mohammed stated in an interview with CBS television that the laws of sharia (Islamic law) require women to dress in decent, respectful clothing, similar to men. However, he noted that this does not specifically mandate a black abaya or head cover. The choice of appropriate and respectful clothing for women is entirely up to them. An event on International Women's Day in Saudi Arabia featured women running in Old Jeddah. A senior cleric recently stated that women should dress modestly, but wearing the abaya is not mandatory. It is uncertain if this indicates a shift in the enforcement of women's dress code in the country. Saudi Arabia does not have a written legal code to accompany sharia texts, and traditionally, police and the judiciary have enforced a strict dress code that includes wearing abayas and often covering the hair and face for Saudi women. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has experienced a new era of social freedoms as the 32-year-old crown prince, Prince Mohammad bin Salman, has risen to power after many years of elderly rulers. This has led to an increase in women's rights, with Saudi women now wearing more colorful abayas such as light blues and pinks, in contrast to the traditional black. Open abayas over long skirts or jeans are also becoming more prevalent in certain regions of the country. A group of women in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia celebrated International Women's Day on March 8 by going for a jog, exercising their newly acquired freedom. Despite onlookers' surprise, activists criticize the country's guardianship system which still requires women to obtain permission from a male family member for activities such as studying abroad and traveling. Recently, a UN rights watchdog urged Saudi Arabia to eliminate discriminatory practices against women, including male guardianship, and ensure they have equal access to justice. | 2 |
The Puja ceremony commenced on Tuesday at the well-known Durgabari temple situated in front of the 113-year-old Ujjayanta Palace, which is the largest in eastern India. Part of the palace still serves as the residence of the former princely rulers, while the rest has been transformed into northeast India's largest museum dedicated to preserving the history, life, and culture of the region. Tripura is unique in that the state government, regardless of political affiliation, actively funds this Hindu religious festival, a tradition that has been ongoing since Tripura's merger with India and has continued even during Communist rule. Following the end of 517 years of rule by 184 kings, the princely state officially came under Indian government control on October 15, 1949, through a merger agreement. The Tripura government is still obligated to sponsor temples established by Hindu princely rulers, a responsibility now managed by a division called Debarchan Vibhag under district magistrates in four of the state's eight districts. Before the five-day Durga worship ceremony begins, a procession led by the head priest, accompanied by the Tripura Police, seeks permission from the former royal family at the palace. Many ancient traditions are no longer practiced today. Debbarma informed IANS that during the five-day festival at Durgabari, a young buffalo, several goats, and pigeons are sacrificed in front of numerous devotees, all funded by the government. Maneka Gandhi, chairperson of People for Animals (PFA) and current union minister of women and child development, sent a letter to district magistrates urging them to stop the cruel killing of animals in temples during religious events. The district magistrate of West Tripura used to report to the former royal family about the preparations at Durgabari and submit a final report after the festival, but this practice has now been discontinued. The chief priest of Durgabari temple, Dulal Bhattacharjee, explained that the festival reaches its peak on the final day of Dashami when the idols are immersed at Dashamighat with full state honors and the national song played by the police band. Historian Roy, known for writing many books on the history of the royal era, pointed out the uniqueness of the over 200-year-old Durga Puja, noting that the prasad includes meat, fish, eggs, and fruits. While the Durgabari temple's celebration of Durga Puja remains a major attraction for various reasons, community pujas organized by clubs and families also garner significant attention. Traditional themes, current issues, and events are prominent in the pandals, with Indian temples and historical events featuring in the decorations. The pandals will also showcase themes such as India's mission to Mars, climate change, global warming, environmental protection, crimes against women, ancient Indian epics, folk traditions, and the culture of Hindu Bengalis and tribals. Additionally, traditional handicrafts, Tripura's royal palace, Kolkata's Birla Planetarium, Guwahati's Kamakhya Temple, Konarak's Sun Temple, Kashmir's snow-capped hills and Dal Lake, Bombay High, and a Buddhist temple in China will be depicted in the puja marquees. The Tripura Police reported that 2,335 community and family pujas have been organized across Tripura, with 1,023 in urban areas and 1,312 in rural areas, including around 550 pujas in and around Agartala. | 2 |
Paris is currently experiencing a drastic change, with all restaurants closed and a curfew in place at 6 pm. The lively atmosphere of the city has been replaced by a sense of gloom as people are forced to eat sandwiches in the rain on park benches. This shift in the city's culture is unsettling to many. They now opt for takeout in the form of "click-and-collect" instead of dining out early, which they see as a negative American influence. They sadly look at the outdated menus of closed restaurants still offering traditional French dishes. The city no longer has its usual bustling tourist attractions like museums, riverboats, sidewalk cafes, and movie theaters. Instead, there is a feeling of melancholy and emptiness in the air. Saul Bellow wrote in 1983 that Parisian gloom is more than just a result of the weather - it also has a profound effect on one's character, opinions, and judgment. Despite this, Bellow could still enjoy a glass of sauvignon blanc and a plate of charcuterie when feeling down due to the "Parisian grisaille." However, in the current damp Parisian winter, with the toll of COVID-19 rising and the city's deserted streets reminiscent of TS Eliot's "tedious argument," sunlight has been scarce, leaving doubts as to its reality. New York does not experience light rain or long periods of overcast skies. My adjustment to this change has been difficult, especially in comparison to Paris, which seems to have lost its essence. Alain Ducasse, a renowned chef, described the current state of Paris as "absolute sadness" and "a terrible imprisonment." The French people are struggling to adapt to a life without social interactions, such as meeting friends at a cafe or exchanging a kiss on the cheek as a greeting or goodbye. With over 74,000 fatalities in France due to the pandemic, the restrictions put in place are widely accepted. Many major cities globally have experienced significant losses in life, employment, and lifestyle. Paris is not the only city facing hardships, as each city adapts in its unique manner. In New York, the most noticeable absence is the vibrant energy that typically characterizes it. In Paris, the missing element that is deeply felt is the lack of the lively and pleasurable social interactions that captivate people's imaginations. The disappearance of pleasures that the French have perfected over centuries has made life dull and routine. There seems to be limited options for entertainment or excitement, leading to a sense of confinement for some, as a friend recently expressed by saying, "We'll only have Paris." Frédéric Hocquard, who is in charge of tourism and nightlife in the mayor's office, mentioned that he purchased a dog so that he can take it for walks after the curfew. According to him, the number of tourists visiting Paris decreased by approximately 85% last year. Additionally, visits to popular attractions like the Louvre and Versailles, which are currently closed, saw a decline of around 90%. Describing the situation as "catastrophic," he expressed deep concern about the impact of the decrease in tourism on the city. Hotel occupancy is currently at around 6%, but there is a positive trend in the increasing number of Parisians visiting the Eiffel Tower, which doubled last year. According to Hocquard, one defining trait of a true Parisian is never having gone up the iconic landmark, but this is starting to change. This shift was brought about by the removal of other options, and there are other benefits to be found in this challenging situation for Parisians. Traffic continues to move smoothly, while markets remain bustling with vendors selling fresh oysters, butchers carefully preparing quails, cheeses being debated over for ripeness, and rum baba cakes with syringes for injecting rum. The city's islands still face towards the low bridges, and the 19th-century lampposts on Rue de Rivoli create a dreamy atmosphere reminiscent of a film noir. (Individuals with press passes can venture out after curfew). Paris is peaceful and lost in thought. Ducasse mentioned that in one hundred days, the city would start coming back to life. When asked about his travels, he mentioned only going to Bologna in Italy to find a skilled gelato maker. After achieving success with his chocolate business a couple of years ago, Hocquard now plans to venture into the ice cream business. Additionally, he is considering organizing concerts and outdoor activities in parks, along the Seine river, and even at unused airports in April and May. Despite his optimistic outlook for the future, he still has to address the challenges of the present. On a recent snowy Sunday, the author visited the Tuileries garden in search of diversion, appreciating its formal design with gravel paths, trimmed trees, and structured layouts. One feature that was still operational was a carousel, where colorful horses, an ostrich, a car, a plane, a ship, and a few Cinderella carriages went round and round. My companion and I opted for the horses, while the music playing was of North African origin. There were a few children present as well. The carousel, a small wonder, took me on a nostalgic journey through my sporadic visits to Paris dating back to the 1970s. Paris will return again, perhaps not this spring, but eventually. I observed a crow grabbing a leftover French fry and flying to a bench to eat it. I looked at a wall adorned with plaques honoring French soldiers who died during the liberation of Paris in 1944, including the youngest, Jean-Claude Touche, who was only 18 years old. The pandemic has created a situation similar to wartime during peacetime. Just like how Humphrey Bogart's character in "Casablanca" tells Ingrid Bergman's character to remember their love in Paris, now more than ever, we must imagine Paris. Copyright 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
If individuals demonstrate that they are in danger and meet the requirements set by the host country, then that country must accept them. This principle has not been fully upheld since its inception after World War II, when it was considered a moral and practical necessity to rebuild societies for the greater good. However, in recent years, the Western powers that initially supported this agreement have been gradually weakening it, undermining their own and the world's responsibilities towards a duty they once deemed essential for global stability. This undermining of the agreement reached a new peak last week when the British government unveiled a plan to send thousands of asylum seekers to Rwanda instead of processing their claims, effectively making them another country's problem. Britain did not come up with the idea of housing refugees and asylum-seekers in remote facilities. European governments have been paying leaders in countries such as Sudan and Libya to detain migrants for them for many years. Australia also does this by sending migrants to various island nations. The United States began this practice in 1991 by sending Haitians to Guantánamo Bay. The rise of right-wing politics, the backlash against migration in Europe in 2015, and the coronavirus pandemic have all led to an increase in these practices, along with others like building walls and using armed patrols to make the journey more dangerous. The global refugee system is not completely dead, as seen by European governments accepting millions of displaced Ukrainians. However, Britain's actions suggest that the once universal and legally binding obligation is now seen as optional. This shift, already evident in some ways, is likely to escalate in the coming months as refugee arrivals are expected to increase in the summer, potentially leading to more backlash against refugees. The commitment of the world to refugees and asylum-seekers has always been more conditional and self-interested than originally believed. After World War II, Western leaders promised to resettle Europe's refugees in safe locations, but they also forcibly returned 2.3 million Soviet citizens to the Soviet Union, where many were executed or sent to the gulag. Despite this, during the Cold War, Western governments began to emphasize their respect for refugee rights in order to contrast themselves with communist governments that restricted citizens from leaving. However, Western compliance with refugee rights remained inconsistent, often favoring refugees from communist countries or those who could provide some political advantage. The Cold War ended in 1991, causing Western countries to lose their political motivation to address global refugee populations. As a result, the number of refugees worldwide increased significantly, reaching 18 million in the early 1990s, almost nine times higher than when refugee rules were established in 1951. The US began diverting Haitian refugees in 1991 to avoid having to hear their claims, exploiting a legal loophole to maintain compliance with both domestic and international laws. Years later, there was another increase in the number of refugees globally, reaching 20 million in 2017. While this number has slightly increased since then, it is still lower as a percentage of the global population compared to the peak in 1992. The current refugee crisis is likely smaller than the one that occurred after World War II, which displaced tens of millions across Europe and Asia. However, in the 2010s, as refugee numbers grew mainly from poorer countries, the response was different. The United States, for example, implemented similar policies for Central Americans as it did for Haitians, working with governments, particularly in Mexico, to prevent refugees and migrants from reaching the border. Europe and Australia also adopted similar strategies. Resulting in a pattern of detention centers in concentric circles, some known for their harsh treatment, located just outside the borders of the wealthiest nations. These centers are strategically placed along the paths of refugees or near the borders they were trying to reach, providing governments with a facade of compliance. The UK's recent proposal to transport individuals to a distant continent further emphasizes the reality of this system. Some believe that establishing new international agreements or eliminating old ones could more effectively distribute global responsibility, especially as the distinction between economic migrants and political refugees becomes blurred due to an increase in climate refugees. However, world leaders have shown little interest in such proposals. The issue lies in governments not wanting refugees and being unwilling to accept them, so simply replacing one ignored agreement with another will not solve the problem. Europe's apparent double standard in welcoming Ukrainians while making it difficult for migrants from the Middle East to enter has highlighted the new refugee system's unwritten norms. Governments now selectively apply refugee rights based on which demographic groups are more likely to receive domestic political approval. This practice, exemplified by Britain expelling asylum-seekers while apologizing for not accepting more Ukrainians, reflects a common trend seen even in statements made by President Donald Trump. Last week, the Biden administration granted protected status to 40,000 Cameroonian citizens in the United States, allowing them to stay in the country instead of returning to Cameroon due to the civil war. In addition, 30,000 Ukrainians were also granted protected status recently. However, there has been disagreement within the administration about whether to maintain a Trump-era rule that allows the U.S. to reject most refugees at the border for public health reasons. Despite the rule being set to be lifted on May 23, some in the administration have fought to keep it. The pandemic has caused a shift in what was once considered extreme, such as near-total border closures. Due to this, restrictions that were once considered shocking now seem more acceptable, making it easier for governments to implement them. Governments have also realized that as long as they are not held accountable by other countries for violating international norms, only their own citizens can stop them. Often, these policies are demanded by the citizens themselves. Over the past decade, right-wing populist parties have gained support by pushing back against immigration and portraying refugee regulations as a way to weaken traditional national identities. While some established parties resisted this trend — such as Germany accepting 1 million refugees despite the rise of far-right movements — others believed that limiting nonwhite immigration was necessary to protect their parties and possibly their democracies. The original intentions of the global refugee compact have been overshadowed by domestic politics, leading to refugees being forced to pay the price for fleeing wars or famines. The British public's response to Prime Minister Boris Johnson's proposal, which defies the compact, may shed light on whether the plan is feasible, regardless of its legality or morality. David Normington, a former top civil servant, criticized the proposal as inhumane, morally reprehensible, and possibly unlawful. Ultimately, the success of the plan may hinge on the tolerance of the British public. Text = © 2022 The New York Times Company retains all rights. | 2 |
Halimi was instructed to dismiss all male teachers at girls' schools and replace them with women because militants believed that men should not teach girls. The government complied with this directive in order to prevent the schools from being forcibly shut down. Despite these efforts, Farah's schools were still targeted. Last month, armed men on motorcycles set fire to two girls' schools near Farah city on consecutive nights, causing extensive damage and destroying teaching materials, resulting in the suspension of classes for nearly 1,700 girls. Graffiti found nearby bore the message "Long live the Islamic Emirate," the Taliban's title. According to police spokesman Muhibullah Muhib, four other girls' schools in the province have also been targeted in recent months, instilling fear among teachers, students, and families. These attacks have reignited concerns about a potential resurgence of Taliban rule as the militants and the United States engage in peace negotiations. Until 2001, the Taliban government prohibited girls' education and kept women confined to their homes. Today, over 3.6 million Afghan girls are attending school and 100,000 women are enrolled in universities. However, approximately 400 schools have closed recently due to security concerns, including armed conflicts and threats from the Taliban. Despite assurances from Taliban leaders in Qatar that they support women's rights, such as education, recent school attacks in Farah have raised concerns among Afghan women about the possibility of a future government including the Taliban imposing restrictions on girls' education once again. Sosan Aubi, a 38-year-old teacher at a school that was recently burned, expressed disappointment and loss of hope following the explosion, despite optimism due to the Qatar talks. Nayab Khan, a village grocer, voiced skepticism towards the Taliban's promises, citing their actions of blowing up schools and obstructing girls' education. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid denied involvement in the attacks and claimed they would investigate and punish those responsible. Mujahid stated that if the schools were to reopen, there would not be a threat from their side. However, residents in the area noted that the schools were located in Taliban-controlled areas and government officials had not been able to assess the damage. Dadullah Qani, a member of the Farah provincial council, expressed concern that the government was losing control of the province, citing the attacks as evidence of the deteriorating security situation. "There is no distinction between the government and the general population - both are unable to prevent such attacks," stated provincial government officials and village elders. The attacks have revealed a division within the militants, with many Taliban civil authorities being open to girls' education while some military commanders are opposed. The Taliban run shadow governments in areas under their control or in dispute, collecting taxes and setting up offices to manage daily affairs. "Some of them support girls' education while others do not," noted Halimi, the deputy education director. Village elders reported meeting with government officials in Farah city to request the reconstruction of schools, only to be informed that the government lacked the authority to act. They were advised to reach out to local Taliban leaders instead. Halimi mentioned that a group of approximately 50 villagers was thinking about reopening classes in tents for the time being. Residents in the area stated that Taliban education officials had been in touch with school leaders in the province to discuss the possibility of reopening, but needed time to come to an agreement with Taliban military leaders. Mohammad Azimi, the education director for the province, had requested assistance from parents and students in reopening the schools. At Sher Ali Khan school in Naw Deh village, located around 8 miles from Farah city, the school windows were shattered and the walls were damaged. Inside, burnt desks and school papers were scattered around. A plaque at the school entrance displayed Afghan and American flags along with a message indicating that the U.S. Agency for International Development played a role in building the school in 2005. Despite someone attempting to scratch out the U.S. flag, the agency's office in Kabul stated that they were not currently funding the school, although it may have been a previous project. The school principal, Abdul Rahman, reported that on the night of April 15, five masked men armed with weapons tied up the night watchman, poured fuel inside the school, and set it on fire. Additionally, they detonated a small explosive device in the school office. School records, student supplies, and academic textbooks were set on fire by the attackers, but Islamic religious texts were left untouched, according to Rahman. Rahman expressed concern that the girls are now fearful and may not return to the school even if it reopens. Abdul Hamid Haidari, a 45-year-old shopkeeper, mentioned that his three daughters were students at Sher Ali Khan school. He shared that his daughter Roya, 18, had aspirations of becoming a teacher but that her graduation and career prospects were now uncertain due to the destruction of her school transcripts. Haidari recounted how Roya and her sisters were devastated upon hearing about the attack. He expressed his determination to educate his children, including his daughters and four sons, and mentioned that he had made sacrifices to enroll them in schools despite the dangerous security conditions. He had hoped that the peace talks would improve the situation, but after their school was destroyed, he felt less optimistic. Qani, a member of the provincial council, described a fearful and distrustful atmosphere following the school attacks. He noted that the attacks may have achieved their goal, as parents are now hesitant to send their daughters back to school even if they reopen. "Today they blow up school buildings," Qani remarked. "Will students be attacked tomorrow?" - c.2019 New York Times News Service. | 2 |
The refrigerators known as "solar direct-drive" have contributed to a 50% increase in child vaccinations in the poorest rural provinces of the DRC over the past year, as reported by global vaccine alliance Gavi. This has resulted in a significant reduction in child mortality rates in the DRC compared to two decades ago. Last year, more than 18 million children were vaccinated against a deadly measles outbreak, which has since slowed down. With the hope of launching a larger immunisation effort once COVID-19 vaccines are available, the world faces the challenge of delivering millions of inoculations in Africa, a continent with weak health systems and limited access to electricity. It is uncertain whether current off-grid refrigerators can maintain the necessary cold temperatures for storing vaccines effectively. Refrigeration is crucial for the distribution of vaccines, as many require temperatures between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius (35-46 degrees Fahrenheit). However, nearly half of the leading COVID-19 vaccine candidates being developed may need storage as low as minus 80C. A distribution network for COVID-19 vaccines will need to maintain consistently low temperatures from manufacturers to remote rural areas. Although advances have improved vaccination storage in recent years, many African countries still lack adequate cold chain networks. According to Toby Peters, a professor at the University of Birmingham specializing in cooling systems for food and medicine, the logistical challenge of providing refrigeration for vaccines in sub-Saharan African countries, particularly those with rural populations, is perhaps the greatest challenge the world has ever faced. In the past, outdated kerosene-powered refrigerators caused issues with vaccine storage in health centers. However, the introduction of solar direct-drive refrigerators about a decade ago has revolutionized vaccine storage by directly connecting to solar panels, allowing for reliable cooling without the need for storage batteries that often fail after a few years. These refrigerators, which cost between $3,500 and $9,000, use thermal energy to keep vaccines cool for many days regardless of the weather. In 2016, only 16% of rural health centers in the DRC had functioning refrigerators, but today nearly 80% have been equipped, many with direct-drive solar units. This has led to a significant increase in immunization sessions, with 24,000 being held monthly in the poorest provinces, a 50% increase from 2018. According to Clemmer, this has transformed vaccine delivery for children in sub-Saharan Africa. Karan Sagar, a doctor at Gavi, attributes a 25% rise in child vaccination rates in Africa over the past decade to the use of off-grid equipment. Since 2017, Gavi has led a $250-million initiative to distribute over 15,300 solar direct-drive fridges to various African countries. Nearly 3,400 fridges were sent to the DRC and 5,400 to Nigeria. Last year, 87% of children in these countries received the first dose of a vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, showcasing the effectiveness of supply chains in reaching remote communities. Moving vaccines from manufacturing sites to urban and rural areas in Africa will require several steps, including the use of solar refrigerators. Throughout the entire process – from transportation by airplanes, warehouses, trucks, motorbikes, bicycles, canoes, and even drones – the vaccines must be maintained at specific, very low temperatures, similar to other perishable items. The COVID-19 vaccine will require significantly larger quantities, with health experts estimating a need to reach up to 750 million people in Africa alone, compared to the typical 115 million infants reached in annual child vaccination campaigns worldwide. In preparation for this task, cold chain expert Peters is spearheading a government-supported initiative to assess Africa's requirements for distributing the COVID-19 vaccine, collaborating with nonprofit organizations, businesses, and academic institutions. They are leveraging insights from Rwanda, a country in central-east Africa that has made notable advancements in establishing efficient, environmentally-friendly cold chains for food and vaccine distribution. The system is centered around a single warehouse that functions as a cooling center for vaccines distributed to various medical facilities in Rwanda. Many of these facilities, including remote rural health posts, use solar fridges. The World Health Organization states that these vaccines are reaching over 95% of the population. However, duplicating Rwanda's success will be challenging due to the country's small size. Peters mentioned that countries like Nigeria, which are much larger, present more obstacles. He suggested that a food cold chain model with established commercial capacity will be necessary for success. Peters mentioned the successful transportation of fresh food from small farms in Africa to consumers in Europe as a model that could be applied to moving vaccines. However, the challenge of ultra-cold storage requirements for COVID-19 vaccines, which solar direct-drive fridges are not equipped to handle, must also be considered. Rwanda and the DRC have experience with vaccines requiring ultra-cold storage, such as a vaccine used during the Ebola outbreak. This vaccine was kept at minus 60-80C for up to 6.5 days using "super thermos" coolers filled with synthetic alcohol ice. However, the quantities needed for a COVID-19 vaccine would be much larger. Sagar pointed out that very few African economies have the capability for ultra-cold chain storage. Peters is optimistic that COVID-19 vaccines will only need standard cold storage between 2-8C, which can be provided by solar direct-drive refrigerators at rural health centers. He expressed concern that if vaccines require colder temperatures, it will pose a significant new challenge for mainstream cold chains. | 2 |
France had previously announced plans to restrict cross-Channel trade starting at 2300 GMT on Monday, potentially escalating a dispute over fish into a larger trade conflict between two major European economies. However, French President Macron stated that the plan was temporarily suspended as negotiations continued following his meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the UN climate conference in Glasgow. Macron indicated that talks were ongoing based on a proposal he had presented to Johnson, with the expectation that the British would respond with additional proposals the following day. "All the tasks will be addressed. We will assess our progress tomorrow at the end of the day to determine if there have been any significant changes," he stated. "I hope we can find solutions to all these problems." European Affairs Minister Clement Beaune reassured on Twitter that trade sanctions would not be imposed until after a meeting with British Brexit minister David Frost in Paris on Thursday. The decision was well received by Britain. A UK government spokesperson stated that they appreciate France's recognition of the need for thorough discussions to address the various challenges in the UK/EU relationship. The spokesperson also mentioned that Frost has agreed to Beaune's invitation. Earlier in the day, Britain issued a 48-hour ultimatum to France to retract their threats of sanctions or face legal repercussions under the Brexit trade agreement. The potential measures threatened by France, such as increased border checks and banning British vessels from certain ports, could disrupt cross-Channel trade. British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss criticized France for making unreasonable threats towards the Channel Islands and the British fishing industry, and warned that action would be taken if the threats are not withdrawn. The dispute between Britain and France over access to fishing grounds along their Channel coasts has been ongoing for decades. The fishing issue was a major point of contention in the negotiations leading to Britain's departure from the European Union, not due to its economic significance, which is minimal, but rather its political importance. Reclaiming control over fishing grounds was a key argument in Johnson's case for Brexit. Macron is also facing re-election and needs to support his nation's trawler crews, an influential political group. The recent dispute arose when Paris accused London of not granting enough post-Brexit licenses to French boats to fish in the 6-12 nautical mile zone off UK shores. Britain maintains it is only issuing licenses to boats with a history of fishing in its waters, a demand from British fishermen concerned about French competition. The Cornelis Gert Jan, a British scallop dredger, was seized by French authorities last Wednesday in French waters near Le Havre, causing anger in London. As tensions were expected to increase once the French deadline passed on Monday, fishing crews from both countries were avoiding each other's waters, according to marine traffic tracking data and a representative from the French fishing industry. | 2 |
The European Union's Nobel peace prize coincides with the realization that despite three years of financial turmoil, the euro, Europe's single currency and most ambitious project, has survived and is unlikely to disband. However, while the euro zone has avoided a potentially bitter breakup and the loss of some member countries, it now faces the risk of becoming an unequal and strained partnership with frequent disagreements and the possibility of separation. Recent developments have indicated that the euro is likely to remain and may even expand to include more members in the future. Despite this, the euro zone still struggles with economic stagnation, high unemployment, and social unrest, causing a growing divide between northern and southern Europe and fueling anti-EU sentiment in various countries. The European Central Bank's decision to purchase bonds from troubled member states has provided some stability to the euro zone, but challenges remain in addressing its economic woes. ECB President Mario Draghi emphasized the bank's commitment to using all available tools to prevent any speculation on the dissolution of the eurozone. The euro zone's permanent rescue fund, which provides a 500 billion euro backstop for countries at risk of losing access to capital markets, became operational after a long period of negotiation and legal challenges. German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit to Athens indicated that Germany, the EU's strongest economy, wants Greece to remain in the euro area, effectively ending debates in Berlin about Greece's potential expulsion. Furthermore, the numerous predictions about the euro's collapse coming from financial institutions in London and New York have suddenly ceased, leading to a decrease in short bets against the euro in currency markets. Bond yields have decreased and bank stocks have rebounded. Spanish banks are borrowing less from the ECB as some are regaining access to money markets. There is a decreased likelihood of a Greek exit from the euro, as Citigroup economists believe key euro zone players are now opposed to the idea. The probability of a "Grexit" has been reduced from 90 percent to 60 percent, but it is still believed that Greece will likely leave the euro within the next year and a half. European governments may not be willing to forgive part of Greece's debt to make it sustainable, but there is still a possibility of a write-off, especially after the German general election next year. It might appear to be a more logical, though unpopular, choice compared to a disorderly Greek default and exit, which would have severe economic and social implications for Greece and Europe. The International Monetary Fund recently criticized the EU's policy response, warning of potential capital flight, breakup fears, and economic decline in the euro area. The IMF is urging the euro zone, particularly Germany, to accelerate progress on a banking union and closer fiscal integration, and to adjust the balance between austerity and growth. The IMF also admitted underestimating the negative impact of budget cuts on growth and called on Europe to relax austerity measures, which was met with opposition from Germany's finance minister. The effects of the sovereign debt crisis will continue to devastate the streets for years to come, despite changes in perceptions in financial markets. The impact of public spending cuts and recession is causing social upheaval in countries such as Athens and Madrid, pushing middle class families and retirees into poverty and increasing unemployment and precariousness among young people. This crisis has shifted the balance of power in Europe, giving Germany and its northern allies more influence in euro zone decision-making based on their credit rating, while weakening and furthering the dependency of southern states. There is now a possibility of a two-tier Europe emerging, with a tighter inner core in the euro zone with its own budget and rules, and a looser outer circle including countries like Britain and Sweden. Germany is adamant about not taking on additional financial responsibilities for other euro states, rejecting common euro zone bonds and joint bank deposit guarantees. Finance ministers from Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland are working to prevent any retroactive use of euro zone rescue funds. Berlin supports the idea of creating a separate budget for the euro zone to deal with economic shocks, and its endorsement of a single banking supervisor could lead to more risk sharing in the future. As the euro area becomes more unified, non-euro EU members like Poland, Hungary, and Latvia face difficult decisions. These countries are eager to join the monetary union and are pushing to have a say in decision-making bodies that oversee banks in their countries. Poland recently attempted to gain access to the Eurogroup by offering to participate in a financial transaction tax, but was told that only eurozone members could attend. Britain is not planning to join the euro or the banking union, but is requesting a veto right to safeguard its financial sector from decisions made by others. It also hopes to negotiate a reduction of its European ties as the euro zone integrates more closely. Sweden, with a pro-euro political establishment, is uncertain about the euro zone progressing without its involvement. These developments will challenge Europe's ability to maintain peace and prosperity on a divided continent, as recognized by the Nobel Prize. | 2 |
Pope Benedict stated that communism had failed in Cuba and offered the Church's assistance in creating a new economic model, which was met with a cautious response from the Cuban government ahead of his upcoming visit to the island. During a press conference on his way to Mexico and Cuba, the Catholic leader expressed that Marxist ideology no longer aligns with reality. He emphasized the need to find new models for society in a patient and constructive manner. These remarks were more critical and direct than those made by his predecessor John Paul II during his visit to Cuba 14 years ago, reflecting the Church's anti-communist stance. The Church and government in Cuba have improved their relationship in recent years, leading many to believe that the pope would avoid controversial topics during his visit. Cuban leaders did not show any signs of being upset by the pope's comments, as Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez stated that they would listen with respect to his Holiness and value the exchange of ideas, while also emphasizing the deep convictions of the Cuban people. Elizardo Sanchez, leader of the independent Cuban Commission on Human Rights, commended the pope for demonstrating "the goodwill of the Catholic Church and particularly Pope Benedict XVI regarding the situation in Cuba," although he questioned whether significant changes would occur. According to Sanchez, the government is not motivated to implement the necessary political reforms in Cuba. Pope John Paul II is remembered for his reconciliatory speech at a Mass in Havana's Revolution Square, where he expressed the hope that Cuba would embrace its potential and engage with the world. Pope Benedict acknowledged the progress made through collaboration and dialogue initiated by John Paul, despite ongoing disagreements between the Cuban bishops and government on issues like media access and religious education. The Church is aiming to increase its congregation in Cuba following a decline after the revolution, caused in part by families leaving and government hostility. Around 60 percent of Cuba's population has been baptized, but only five percent attend mass regularly. During his upcoming visit, Pope Benedict offered the Church's assistance in achieving a peaceful transition on the island, emphasizing the need for patience and decisiveness. The Church hopes to contribute to a society that is fraternal and just, and to avoid potential difficulties in the transition after Cuba's current leaders, Fidel and Raul Castro, have passed away. Cuba's leaders have acknowledged the need for improvement in the country's economic model while maintaining support for the one-party communist political system. In 2010, Fidel Castro admitted to a reporter that the Cuban model was no longer working for them, leading some to believe that communism had failed in Cuba. However, Castro clarified that his comment was not a criticism of the communist revolution but rather a reflection of the challenging economic conditions on the island. This suggested his support for his brother's efforts to stimulate the economy through modest reforms to protect the revolution. It is uncertain whether Benedict will meet with Fidel, who led Cuba for 49 years before stepping down due to age and illness. The Vatican has stated that the pope is willing to meet with the elderly, ailing Castro if he desires. Amnesty International reported an increase in harassment and detention of dissidents in Cuba over the past two years. When asked about defending human rights in Cuba, the pope stated that the Church always stands for freedom, including freedom of conscience and religion. Despite Cuba releasing 70 members of the dissident Ladies in White group who were detained over the weekend, they were warned not to attend events related to the pope's visit. The women, also known as the "Damas de Blanco," were released without charges after being arrested in separate incidents while trying to march in Havana. On Friday, they could not be contacted by phone. Rodriguez cautioned that any attempts to disrupt the papal visit with political tactics will be unsuccessful because the Pope will encounter a patriotic and well-informed Cuban population proud of their culture and beliefs. The Pope's schedule does not include any meetings with Cuban dissidents. The Vatican recently reiterated its disapproval of the US trade embargo on Cuba, deeming it ineffective and harmful to regular citizens. Despite being in place for 50 years, the embargo remains a central aspect of US policy towards Cuba, despite failing to achieve its goal of weakening the communist government. During the peak of the Cold War, Washington enforced a nearly complete trade embargo on Havana as a means to retaliate against its backing of the Soviet Union and with the expectation that it would lead to the downfall of communism. | 2 |
In 2013, the latest comprehensive data showed that 767 million people were living on less than $1.90 a day, a decrease from 881 million the previous year. The strongest income rises were seen in Asia. World Bank President Jim Yong Kim noted the progress in reducing poverty and increasing shared prosperity despite a struggling global economy. The new figures demonstrate advancements in helping the poor over the past 25 years, with nearly 1.1 billion fewer poor in 2013 compared to 1990. These findings bring the world closer to achieving the United Nations goal of ending extreme poverty by 2030. The goal is to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, which consist of 17 goals aimed at addressing poverty, inequality, and climate change. However, reaching this target will also require addressing persistent inequality, according to the World Bank. Francisco Ferreira, a senior adviser at the World Bank, stated that meeting the international community's goals by 2030 will involve addressing inequality and promoting more inclusive growth. The World Bank reported that income inequality had increased between 1988 and 2013. Nevertheless, recent data indicates that inequality has decreased in over 40 countries, including Brazil, Peru, Mali, and Cambodia. Sub-Saharan Africa is home to half of the world's extreme poor, while a third of the global poor live in South Asia. The Bank reported that poverty reduction has been most significant in East Asia and the Asia Pacific regions, with countries like China, Indonesia, and India leading the way. In 2015, the Bank predicted that the number of people living in extreme poverty would fall below 10 percent of the world's population for the first time. | 2 |
The musical "Sleepless: A Musical Romance," which premiered on Tuesday at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theater, is more significant for being London's first fully staged indoor musical since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in March. Other musical revivals have been performed in outdoor locations with limited casts or no live actors. Despite being fairly unremarkable, "Sleepless" is a symbol of the return of live performances on a larger scale, which was previously unimaginable just a few months ago. The musical, based on the successful 1993 film "Sleepless in Seattle," features a plot where the romantic leads are kept apart until the end, mirroring our socially distanced era. Safety measures, such as daily coronavirus testing for the cast and crew and mandatory masks for the audience, are in place to ensure a safe experience for all. The theater in northwestern London, located away from the closed West End, is only selling less than one-third of its 1,300 seats for each show to generate some revenue. This decision was made by producers who believed that having some paying audience was better than having none at all. The play "Sleepless: A Musical Romance" is based on the 1993 hit film "Sleepless in Seattle" and is London's first fully staged indoor musical in months. Despite the efforts of all involved, it is disappointing that the production by director Morgan Young is not more exciting, even though the lead actors are likable. Young and his two English stars had previously collaborated on the West End premiere of the musical "Big" last year, which was also based on a Tom Hanks film. An undated photo from Alastair Muir shows Kimberley Walsh, Jack Reynolds, and Jay McGuiness in "Sleepless: A Musical Romance" at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theater in London, which is the city's first fully staged indoor musical in months. The production is based on the popular 1993 film "Sleepless in Seattle." It's refreshing to see a new British composing team, Robert Scott and Brendan Cull, in a musical landscape dominated by Andrew Lloyd Webber on this side of the Atlantic. However, much of the score in "Sleepless" has a similar, easy-listening quality, with songs blending together. The character Annie's songs mainly convey her feelings of being "out of my mind" or "out of my head," reflecting her sudden obsession with a man she heard about on the radio during the holidays. Just like the film, the audience sympathizes with Walter, Annie's partner, who is taken by surprise by her growing attraction to someone she has only heard. In this version, the focus shifts to Jonah, Sam's son, who steals the spotlight with his energetic performance. The highlight of the show is a duet between Jonah and Sam's friend Rob, which is so captivating that they even do an encore. The musical stays true to Nora Ephron's screenplay, sometimes overemphasizing certain references. Annie, a reporter for The Baltimore Sun, is portrayed as a film enthusiast with a strong interest in the Cary Grant-Deborah Kerr movie "An Affair to Remember," which inspired Ephron's film. However, it is unclear why Annie feels the need to express her love for Grant or debate Kerr's last name, as a true movie buff would. Annie's eccentricities, such as finding the word "exotic" exotic, lead to unpredictable conversations. McGuiness and Walsh, known for their work with pop groups, are likable leaders in a show that feels somewhat lacking. Despite this, "Sleepless" leaves you satisfied but eager for more and better theater experiences in the future. Text = Copyright 2020 New York Times News Service. | 2 |
When a new wave of COVID-19 struck in January, Stishi's father contracted the virus and passed away shortly after. Despite her efforts to find work by offering housecleaning services for $10, she was unsuccessful. This has led to Stishi and her children going to bed hungry for the first time. Stishi, 30, expressed frustration that others do not understand their dire situation, as the pandemic has left many struggling to make ends meet. The economic crisis caused by COVID-19 has particularly impacted families like Stishi's who were already living paycheck to paycheck. Currently, in South Africa and various other countries, a larger number of people are experiencing extreme hardship. According to the World Food Program, an estimated 270 million individuals are anticipated to be at risk of severe food shortages this year, a significant increase from 150 million before the pandemic. The number of people facing famine has risen to 41 million from 34 million last year. The World Food Program, in collaboration with the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization, recently issued a warning about the rise in acute food insecurity in 23 hunger hotspots due to conflict, economic impacts of COVID-19, and the climate crisis. This alarming situation is particularly dire in Africa, where new infections have spiked. In recent months, aid organizations have expressed concerns about the dire situations in Ethiopia and southern Madagascar, where famine is widespread due to severe drought. Global hunger has been on the rise for years as poorer countries face various crises, including armed conflict and extreme poverty. Climate-related disasters like droughts and floods have also worsened, making it difficult for countries to respond effectively. The economic impacts of the pandemic have further exacerbated the crisis, with people in both rich and poor countries lining up at food pantries after losing their jobs. As a new surge of the virus sweeps through Africa, the lack of informal support networks, such as financial assistance from family, friends, and neighbors, is becoming more evident. This lack of support, coupled with the absence of government aid, is exacerbating hunger among the world's poor, creating a stark contrast between wealthy nations returning to normalcy and poorer nations falling deeper into crisis. According to Amer Daoudi, a senior director at the World Food Program, the current global food security situation is the worst he has ever seen, with numerous significant crises occurring simultaneously worldwide. In South Africa, a typically food-secure nation, hunger has become widespread. In the last year, three severe waves of the virus have resulted in the loss of many breadwinners, leading to families being unable to afford food. School closures lasting for months have meant that around 9 million students have lost access to free lunches. A government lockdown last year closed informal food vendors in townships, forcing the poorest residents to travel further for groceries and pay more at supermarkets. Approximately 3 million South Africans have become unemployed, driving the unemployment rate to 32.6% - the highest since data collection began in 2008. Droughts in rural areas have also caused livestock deaths and decreased farmers' incomes. The South African government has offered some assistance by implementing $24 monthly stipends and other social grants last year. However, by the end of the year, almost 40% of South Africans were still experiencing hunger, as reported by an academic study. In Duncan Village, a large township in the Eastern Cape province, the economic support for many families has been lost. Prior to the pandemic, the bustling community was filled with workers heading to East London for stable jobs in industries such as car assembly, textiles, and food processing. Anelisa Langeni, 32, mentioned that they always had sufficient resources and even more while sitting at the kitchen table in their two-bedroom home in Duncan Village, shared with her father and twin sister. Her father worked as a machine operator at the Mercedes-Benz plant for almost four decades, saving enough to construct two additional single-family homes on their property - rental units he hoped would offer financial security for his children. However, the pandemic disrupted these intentions as the tenants lost their jobs shortly after the initial lockdown, leading to rent payment challenges. When Langeni lost her job at a seafood restaurant and her sister was also laid off from a pizza joint, they relied on their father's $120 monthly pension. However, tragedy struck in July when he passed away from suspected COVID-19 on the way to the hospital. Langeni was devastated, saying, "I couldn't breathe when they told me. My father and everything we had, everything, gone." Without a job, she sought assistance from two elderly neighbors, one of whom shared food bought with her husband's pension. The second neighbor would bring food every week after her daughter's visit, sometimes bringing so much that it filled the back of her gray Honda minivan. However, when a new variant of the coronavirus hit the province in November, the first neighbor's husband passed away and his pension stopped. Sadly, the second neighbor's daughter also succumbed to the virus a month later. "I never thought it would turn out like this," expressed 73-year-old Bukelwa Tshingila, wiping tears from her face. In the kitchen across from her, a portrait of her daughter hung above an empty cupboard. Two hundred miles to the west, in the Karoo region, the impact of the pandemic has been worsened by a drought that has persisted for eight years. This has caused the once green landscape to turn into a dull, gray color. Zolile Hanabe, a 70-year-old farmer with a 2,400-acre farm in the Karoo, is experiencing more than just a loss of income. His dream of owning a farm began when he was around 10 years old, after his father was forced to sell their goats by the apartheid government. Despite the challenges, Hanabe was able to fulfill his dream in 2011 by using his savings from working as a school principal to lease a farm. He bought five cattle and 10 Boer goats, the same breed his father had raised, and they grazed on the shrubs and drank from a river on the property. He expressed that he believed the farm would be his legacy and something he could pass down to his children. However, in 2019, he found himself still leasing the farm as the drought worsened, causing the river to dry up, 11 cattle to die, and the shrubs to wither. He had to purchase feed for the remaining cattle, which cost $560 per month. The pandemic further exacerbated his difficulties, leading him to lay off two of his three farm hands to reduce the risk of infection. Sellers of feed also reduced their workforce and increased prices, putting more strain on his budget. Hanabe remarked that he could possibly manage through one crisis, but facing both is overwhelming. | 2 |
A $600 million global initiative was launched by scientists on Wednesday to increase rice yields and minimize the environmental impact of rice production. The goal is to help 150 million people escape poverty by 2035. The Global Rice Science Partnership, led by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), will conduct research over the next five years to enhance yields and develop resilient strains that can withstand flooding and climate change. The initiative was announced in Hanoi during a meeting of rice scientists, executives, policymakers, and traders from nearly 70 countries to discuss research, demand, trading, and currency risks. Robert Zeigler, director general of IRRI, emphasized the importance of rice as a staple food for over half of the global population and stressed that rice availability is crucial for food security. Additionally, the research aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from rice production by over 1 billion tons of carbon dioxide by implementing improved irrigation methods and preventing deforestation. The consultative group stated that higher yields could prevent the need for farmers to expand into new areas, potentially saving over 1.2 million hectares of natural ecosystems by 2035. They also proposed an increase in annual funding for rice research to $139 million by 2015 in order to achieve the initiative's goals. By increasing supplies and reducing food prices, the initiative aims to help alleviate poverty for up to 72 million people by 2020. The initiative, which involves IRRI, two French organizations, a research center in Japan, and numerous other partners, aims to bring together various stakeholders from governments, the private sector, and civil society. | 2 |
He was part of a band in Niterói, a Brazilian city surrounded by beaches, and practiced playing guitar by watching online tutorials. YouTube had recently implemented a new artificial intelligence system that learned from user behavior and recommended videos based on that. One day, he was led to an amateur guitar teacher named Nando Moura, who had gained popularity by posting videos about heavy metal, video games, and mostly politics. In his colorful and paranoid rants from the far-right, Moura accused feminists, teachers, and mainstream politicians of being part of huge conspiracies. This captivated him, and as he spent more time on the site, YouTube recommended videos from other far-right figures, including a lawmaker named Jair Bolsonaro, who was not well-known in national politics at the time but had a large following in YouTube's far-right community in Brazil. Bolsonaro was elected President the following year. Matheus Dominguez, who credits YouTube for influencing his shift towards far-right views, is now a 17-year-old considering a future in politics. YouTube's success in keeping users engaged has inadvertently helped extremist groups, according to a report in Brazil. The far right movement in the country credits YouTube's recommendation engine for their rapid rise to power. Recent research suggests that YouTube's search and recommendation algorithms have consistently directed users towards far-right and conspiracy theory content in Brazil. The New York Times investigation revealed that this has had serious consequences, disrupting daily life in various ways such as causing classroom disruptions, spreading dangerous health misinformation, and hindering public health efforts. Viral videos have led to death threats against public health advocates, and right-wing YouTube stars have entered politics alongside Bolsonaro, with some winning by large margins. These stars continue to use the platform to govern, using trolling and provocation. YouTube's recommendation system is designed to maximize watchtime and does not favor any political ideology, but can lead users towards extreme content. This has led to increased viewership and profits for YouTube, with some analysts estimating over $1 billion a month in revenue. Some experts believe that YouTube is a powerful tool for radicalization in the 21st century, while company representatives deny any bias towards extremism. However, representatives from the company acknowledged some of the findings and committed to making changes. Farshad Shadloo, a spokesperson, stated that YouTube has made significant investments in policies, resources, and products to reduce the spread of harmful misinformation, noting that authoritative content is thriving in Brazil and is highly recommended on the platform. Danah Boyd, founder of the think tank Data & Society, attributed the disruption in Brazil to YouTube's relentless pursuit of viewer engagement and the resulting revenue. Despite the existing corruption scandals and economic downturn in Brazil, which had already weakened the political establishment, Boyd expressed concern about YouTube's increasing impact on democracies worldwide, stating that this phenomenon is occurring globally. Maurício Martins, the local vice president of Bolsonaro's party in Niterói, credited YouTube for the recruitment of most party members, including himself. Martins described how he stumbled upon right-wing videos on the platform, which served as his political education and influenced his ideological beliefs. The platform's political influence is evident in Brazilian schools, where students are exposed to extremist views promoted by YouTube stars like Moura. Carlos Jordy, a City Council member, exemplifies the power of YouTube, as he turned to the platform for political inspiration and posted videos accusing local teachers of promoting communism. He stated that the videos helped him gain a large following and ultimately led to his quick rise to the federal legislature. He believed that without social media, he would not have achieved his current position. Researchers at the Federal University of Minas Gerais studied how YouTube influences its users' perceptions by analyzing transcripts and comments on videos. They discovered that right-wing channels in Brazil were gaining more viewers and influencing the site's political content. Positive mentions of Bolsonaro increased after YouTube altered its algorithm, even though he was initially unpopular. A team at Harvard's Berkman Klein Center investigated whether YouTube's recommendation engine had played a role in the far right's rapid growth in Brazil. They programmed a server to explore popular channels and search terms to track how users were directed from one video to the next. The researchers discovered that YouTube's recommendations tended to favor right-wing, conspiracy-filled channels like Moura's after users watched videos about politics or entertainment. Importantly, users who viewed one far-right channel would often be recommended many more. The algorithm brought together previously marginalized channels and helped them build a larger audience, according to the researchers. One of these channels belonged to Bolsonaro, who had been posting hoaxes and conspiracies on the platform for a long time. Despite being an early adopter of YouTube, his online following had not significantly expanded his political base, which was barely present at a national level. However, when Brazil's political system collapsed and YouTube's popularity in the country increased, Bolsonaro's views remained the same but his audience on the far-right of YouTube grew rapidly. This surge in viewership helped to prepare a large number of Brazilians for his message during a time when the country was ready for a political change. YouTube disputed the researchers' methodology and claimed that their internal data contradicted the findings, but the company refused to provide the data to the Times or disclose certain statistics that could confirm the accuracy of the researchers' findings. The spread of conspiracies on YouTube was not limited to politics. Numerous Brazilians who turned to YouTube for health information were alarmed by videos spreading false claims about the spread of Zika through vaccines and insecticides. These videos, reminiscent of extremist political content, instilled fear in viewers and led to a public health crisis as people refused vaccines and insecticides. The impact has been particularly severe in impoverished areas like Maceió, where residents were heavily affected by Zika. Medical professionals in Brazil expressed frustration at the influence of misinformation on platforms like YouTube, which has led to patients disregarding medical advice in favor of online sources. The prevalence of false information online has even caused a resurgence of the disease in some communities, indicating that social media platforms are currently wielding more power than the medical community in Brazil. The Harvard researchers discovered that YouTube's algorithms often directed users searching for information on Zika, or those watching reputable health videos, towards conspiracy channels. A YouTube spokesperson acknowledged the unintended findings and stated that the company would adjust how search results related to Zika are displayed. The rise of the far right led to conspiracy videos being weaponized, with leading voices using them to target individuals for blame. These videos accused activists like Debora Diniz of being involved in supposed Zika plots, suggesting they were behind the disease in order to push for the abolishment of Brazil's abortion ban. As far-right and conspiracy channels began referencing each other, YouTube's recommendation system linked their videos together, creating the impression of a unified truth. Diniz received threats of rape and torture, with some individuals even knowing her daily routines. Küster's videos were filled with repeated claims, according to Diniz. Despite not directly supporting them, Küster mentioned the threats with enthusiasm, staying just within YouTube's guidelines. When Diniz's university received a warning about a potential shooting and the police could no longer ensure her safety, she decided to leave Brazil. Diniz criticized the YouTube recommendation system for creating a hateful environment, where viewers are exposed to extremist ideas. She emphasized the need for companies to take responsibility for their role in spreading hate speech. From an ethical standpoint, they hold responsibility. As misinformation spreads on YouTube, content creators are targeting aid organizations involved in controversial issues like abortion. Even individuals who have historically supported these organizations are beginning to question the validity of the videos and are avoiding them. In Brazil, this online trend is referred to as "lynching." Bolsonaro was an early adopter of this tactic, spreading videos in 2012 that falsely accused leftist academics of planning to distribute "gay kits" in schools to convert children to homosexuality. Jordy, a protege of Bolsonaro from Niterói, was unfazed to learn that his own YouTube campaign, which accused teachers of promoting communism, had severely impacted their lives. One of the teachers, Valeria Borges, mentioned that she and her colleagues were inundated with hateful messages, creating a climate of fear. Jordy, instead of denying this, admitted that instilling fear was his intention. He stated that they are engaged in a "culture war," which he sees as his purpose in office. The epicenter of this YouTube-driven political movement may be the Movimento Brasil Livre headquarters in São Paulo, which was formed to advocate for the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff in 2016. The group's members are typically young, middle-class, right-wing, and spend a lot of time online. Renan Santos, the group's national coordinator, pointed to a door labeled "the YouTube Division" and described it as the central hub of their activities. Inside, a group of young men were working on editing videos, including one that sought to defend fascism as a right-wing ideology. However, there are concerns among some members about the negative impact of social media on democracy. Pedro D'Eyrot, the group's co-founder, referred to social media as a "weapon" that could be used irresponsibly by some individuals associated with Bolsonaro. He also mentioned the concept of the "dictatorship of the like," where reality is shaped by what gets the most attention online. One particular YouTube video titled "1964" was gaining popularity, arguing that Brazil's military coup in that year was necessary to prevent communism. This video had a significant impact on individuals like Dominguez, a teenager who believed his teachers had misrepresented the history of military rule. On the other hand, Borges, a history teacher who was targeted on YouTube, was reminded of the harsh realities of military dictatorship, including curfews, disappeared activists, and police brutality. Despite the disturbing content on social media, individuals like Matheus Dominguez credited YouTube with pushing them towards far-right political views. YouTube's success has been based on engaging users, which has inadvertently benefited extremist groups. An investigation conducted in the company's second-largest market revealed significant repercussions. | 2 |
Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the son of the prime minister and an ICT adviser, revealed the champions during a virtual event put together by Young Bangla, the youth platform of the Awami League’s Centre for Research and Information, on Tuesday. There were a total of 30 winners, with 16 falling under the social inclusion category and 14 under social development. Young Bangla selected 47 organizations for the final round out of 600 youth groups aged between 18 and 35. Joy praised their work as exceptional and noted their dedication to helping the less fortunate in a motivating way. He expressed gratitude for their efforts in aiding impoverished children, individuals with disabilities, and other marginalized groups. According to Joy, the winners are actively working to solve problems they encounter, unlike others who simply prefer to complain. He mentioned that these winners, who may be individual youths in a village, are making a difference by taking action instead of just talking. Nasrul Hamid Bipu, the state minister for power, energy, and mineral resources and a trustee of CRI, participated in the event moderated by Dr. Nuzhat Choudhury. The winners and categories are as follows: Happy Natore and Shoshtho Indrio, also known as The 6th Sense of Rajshahi, for their work in promoting children's rights. Obhizatrik Foundation of Patuakhali and Miserable Welfare Association of Sylhet were recognized for their efforts in empowering the ultra-poor. Hate Khori Foundation of Pirojpur, Ek Takay Shikkha of Chattogram, and Good Film of Barishal were acknowledged for their work in empowering disadvantaged individuals. Unmesh of Rangamati, Ignite Youth Foundation of Chandpur, iTech School of Chandpur, and Positive Bangladesh of Dhaka were recognized for their contributions to youth development. Deshi Balllers of Dhaka and Youth for Change of Barishal were acknowledged for their work in promoting women's empowerment. The organizations involved in the empowerment of people with disabilities in Barishal, Mymensingh, and Habiganj are the Centre for Rights and Development of Persons With Disabilities, Wheelchair Sports Foundation, and Association for Autism and Social Improvement. Those working on emergency coronavirus prevention include Bloodmen Healthcare, Mastul Foundation, World Youth Army, Central Boys of Raujan, and Mission Save Bangladesh Foundation. Plastic Initiative Network and Youth Environment Social Development Society are focused on environmental and climate change issues. Psycure Organisation, DIP Medical Services, and Dipasha Foundation are working on health education and awareness. Pohorchanda Adarsha Pathagar, Uttoron Jubo Sangha, and Cinema Bangladesh are engaged in socio-cultural entrepreneurship. Footstep Bangladesh in Noakhali and Safety Management Foundation in Kurigram, both focused on disaster management and reducing risk of damage, are the recipients of certificates, crests, and laptops. Young Bangla has recognized 130 organizations since 2015, with many of them achieving international recognition in the future. | 2 |
Colombia's Marxist rebels have announced a two-month unilateral ceasefire, marking the first truce in over ten years. This ceasefire comes as peace talks in Cuba aim to end a fifty-year-long war. President Juan Manuel Santos' government has stated that military operations will continue until a final peace deal is reached with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The FARC has agreed to stop all offensive military operations and acts of sabotage against infrastructure from midnight on Monday until January 20. Lead rebel negotiator Ivan Marquez believes this decision will help create a more positive atmosphere for the talks. This ceasefire shows that the rebels are committed to reaching a successful resolution, despite previous speeches calling for major changes to Colombia's political system. The opposing groups arrived at the negotiations in sleek black cars and will be meeting almost daily until the talks are over. A crowd of journalists surrounded Marquez, a bearded and bespectacled FARC member, along with other delegates, including Dutch national Tanja Nijmeijer, in Havana's most luxurious neighborhood. Some FARC members were wearing caps and T-shirts of Simon Trinidad, a guerrilla negotiator imprisoned in the US, while others cheered "Long Live the Army of the People." Humberto de la Calle, the head of the Colombian government delegation, smiled and waved as he entered the talks but did not make any comments. Speaking from Bogota, Colombian Defense Minister Juan Carlos Pinzon expressed skepticism about the FARC's ceasefire pledge, citing the group's history of not honoring agreements. He emphasized that security forces have a duty to pursue criminals who violate the constitution. The ongoing conflict in Colombia, which has lasted for 50 years, has resulted in numerous casualties, displaced millions of people, and caused significant damage to infrastructure. If the current peace process fails, it could lead to more years of fighting and further damage Colombia's reputation as a country seeking foreign investment and regional influence but struggling to address its internal issues. Residents in the war-torn western Cauca province of Colombia expressed joy and hope for the FARC ceasefire, with one resident, Orlando Ramos, stating on local television that they hope it will be a permanent cessation of hostilities rather than just a temporary pause. The ceasefire announcement could potentially benefit oil and mining companies, which have been targeted in recent FARC attacks aimed at undermining the country's main source of international revenue. The ongoing conflict is estimated to cost the Colombian economy 1 to 2 percentage points of GDP annually and has rendered large areas of arable land unsafe due to combat or landmines. A peace agreement with the FARC is seen as a potential catalyst for attracting more sectors and investors to Colombia, according to Heather Berkman, a Latin America analyst at the Eurasia Group. The potential for agricultural production could significantly impact the country's export industry, especially with the possibility of small-scale and large farmers utilizing previously inaccessible land due to security concerns. Santos is pushing for an agreement within nine months, but the rebels believe the process will be more time-consuming. Both parties have a challenging agenda ahead, starting with rural development. Despite past failed peace efforts, there is optimism from both the government and the FARC that this time could bring success. However, not everyone shares this positive outlook. Felix Lafaurie, the leader of Colombia's National Federation of Cattle Ranchers, cautioned that the recent announcement should be approached with skepticism. He expressed hope that the FARC's actions would demonstrate goodwill rather than leading to further disputes on important issues. Despite widespread support for the peace process in Colombia, there is doubt that it will ultimately succeed. President Santos' political future hinges on the outcome of the talks, which are considered to be a significant risk. The conflict stems from the emergence of the FARC in 1964 as a communist movement aimed at addressing Colombia's social inequality. During the 1990s, the FARC held control over significant portions of the country. However, in the early 2000s, the tide of the war began to turn in favor of the government due to billions of dollars in US aid, improved intelligence, and increased mobility. The FARC has suffered losses of several top commanders and has been forced into remote jungle hideouts in recent years. Despite this, they remain a formidable force and continue to launch attacks on security forces and economic infrastructure. Previous peace talks failed due to violence, with negotiations being broken off by the government in the last attempt from 1999 to 2002 after the FARC hijacked an airplane. Juan Fernando Cristo, a senator for the Liberal Party, stated that the FARC has taken into consideration the concerns of many Colombians who have been doubtful about their commitment to ending the war due to their past actions. He believes that the FARC's decision to implement a unilateral truce should be seen as a positive development for the upcoming negotiations. | 2 |
A senior Iranian lawmaker has cautioned Western powers that they will soon need to acknowledge Iran's progress in nuclear technology, as reported by Iran's state news agency on Saturday. The head of the parliamentary committee for national security and foreign policy, Alaeddin Boroujerdi, made these remarks during a ceremony in Mashhad honoring Iran's nuclear scientists who have been targeted in attacks. Western countries suspect Iran of secretly developing nuclear weapons, a claim that Iran denies. Negotiations are set to resume this week in an attempt to address international concerns, although the location of the talks has not been finalized. Boroujerdi emphasized that the P5+1 group of countries must reconsider their approach, as he stated that opposing the Islamic Republic will not be advantageous for them. Iran, which has been deemed honorable, will persist in discussing the topic of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. It is believed that soon enough, arrogant nations such as America and Europe will acknowledge Iran's advancements in nuclear technology and its inclusion in the nuclear community. Despite facing threats and sanctions, Iran has made significant progress in its nuclear capabilities. This includes activities such as mining uranium, producing concentrated uranium powder, constructing centrifuges, and enriching uranium gas. In February, Iran announced the successful loading of domestically produced fuel rods into the Tehran Research Reactor, which is used for medical and agricultural purposes. Iran has consistently asserted its right to engage in peaceful nuclear activities under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. It was emphasized that Iran's nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes, but if the International Atomic Energy Agency fails to fulfill its obligations, Iran's young scientists may consider building a reactor within the country. Speaking in front of families of deceased scientists, Boroujerdi warned that killing Iranian nuclear scientists was ineffective. He stated that Iran's progress has forced Israel, Arab countries, and the US to resort to such actions, but emphasized that these actions will not deter Iran's nuclear ambitions. Despite concerns raised by the IAEA regarding Iran's increased production of enriched uranium, experts believe that Iran's progress in enriching uranium to 20 percent brings them closer to the threshold required for nuclear weapons. The Islamic Republic plans to use highly refined uranium to restock fuel for a reactor in Tehran that produces medical isotopes for cancer patients. The United States and its allies have imposed sanctions on Iran to stop its enrichment activities, while Israel has threatened pre-emptive strikes. President Obama is pushing for a diplomatic solution. Talks between Iran and the P5+1 group have been postponed due to disagreements on the location. | 2 |
According to interviews conducted by Reuters with activist investors and fund managers, votes on climate-related resolutions are expected to gain more support this year from large asset managers who are seeking clarity on executives' plans to thrive in a low-carbon world. In the United States, there have been 79 climate-related resolutions filed so far, compared to 72 last year and 67 in 2019, as reported by the Sustainable Investments Institute. The number of resolutions could potentially reach 90 this year. These resolutions cover a range of topics, such as emissions limits, pollution reports, and "climate audits" that demonstrate the financial impact of climate change on businesses. The overall goal is to urge companies in various sectors to outline their strategies for reducing carbon footprints in the future, in alignment with government targets to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Billionaire British hedge fund manager Chris Hohn believes that companies setting net-zero targets for 2050 without a credible plan and short-term targets are engaging in greenwashing. He is advocating for shareholders to hold these companies accountable. Many companies argue that they already provide sufficient information on climate issues, but some activists believe that more executives are open to making deals this year. Royal Dutch Shell, Spanish airports operator Aena, UK consumer goods company Unilever, and US rating agency Moody's have all announced plans to offer recurring shareholder votes on their climate plans. While these votes are typically non-binding, they often lead to changes when they receive significant support from investors. "The push for greater transparency and goal-setting is stronger now compared to 2020," explained Daniele Vitale, head of governance at Georgeson in London, a firm that advises businesses on shareholder perspectives. Many companies are committing to net-zero targets by 2050, aligning with the Paris climate agreement, but only a small percentage have set interim goals. A study by South Pole found that just 10% of 120 companies surveyed had done so across various industries. Mirza Baig, head of investment stewardship at Aviva Investors, noted the lack of clarity on companies' plans and timelines for achieving these targets. Data analysis from J Safra Sarasin illustrates the magnitude of the challenge ahead. Sarasin examined the greenhouse gas emissions of around 1,500 companies in the MSCI World Index, which represents the world's listed companies. The study determined that if these companies do not reduce their emissions, global temperatures could increase by over 3 degrees Celsius by 2050. This is far above the Paris agreement target of keeping warming to below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably 1.5 degrees Celsius. The research also revealed significant variations among industries. For instance, if all companies emitted at the same rate as the energy sector, the temperature would rise by 5.8 degrees Celsius. The materials sector, which includes metals and mining, is projected to increase temperatures by 5.5 degrees Celsius, while consumer staples like food and drink could lead to a 4.7 degree Celsius rise. The calculations are primarily based on companies' reported emissions in 2019, covering both direct emissions and those associated with the electricity they purchase and use (Scope 1 and 2 emissions). Sectors that have high carbon emissions are expected to face increased pressure from investors to provide more transparency. For instance, ExxonMobil, which has been slow in setting climate goals, recently disclosed its Scope 3 emissions, prompting Calpers to withdraw a shareholder resolution. Calpers' Simiso Nzima believes that 2021 will be a significant year for climate concerns, with more companies likely to engage with activist investors. Exxon has requested permission from the SEC to skip votes on four other shareholder proposals, three of which are related to climate issues. They mention reasons like the company having already made significant reforms. An Exxon spokesperson stated that ongoing discussions with stakeholders led to the emissions disclosure. They did not comment on the requests to skip votes, as the SEC had not yet ruled on Exxon's requests as of late Tuesday. Activists are looking for more action from BlackRock, the largest investor globally with $8.7 trillion in assets, who has promised a stricter stance on climate issues. Last week, BlackRock urged boards to create a climate plan, disclose emissions data, and set strong short-term goals, or face the possibility of directors being voted out at the AGM. It supported a motion at Procter & Gamble's AGM in October, calling for a report on efforts to stop deforestation in its supply chains. The resolution passed with 68% support, with Green Century Capital Management hoping it signals future action from BlackRock. BlackRock's spokesperson stated they will evaluate proposals on a case-by-case basis. Amundi, Europe's largest asset manager, also plans to support more resolutions, while Vanguard appears less certain. Lisa Harlow, Vanguard's stewardship leader for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, mentioned that it is challenging to predict whether their support for climate resolutions this year will exceed their usual rate of backing one in ten. In a bid to assess climate progress through yearly shareholder votes, Britain's Hohn, the founder of a $30 billion hedge fund TCI, is pushing for a regular mechanism. The proposed "Say on Climate" resolution would require companies to present a detailed net zero plan with short-term targets for an annual non-binding vote. If investors are not satisfied, they could potentially vote down directors. The initiative appears to be gaining momentum. Hohn has submitted a minimum of seven resolutions through TCI. The Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, established by Hohn, is collaborating with campaign groups and asset managers to submit over 100 resolutions in the upcoming two AGM seasons across various countries. Hohn expressed confidence to pension funds and insurance companies that although not all companies will back the Say on Climate, they can ultimately secure the votes needed through perseverance. | 2 |
During climate talks in Bonn involving 170 nations, there are proposals to expand a UN scheme that helps developing nations build nuclear power plants in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is a controversial option within the scheme, which allows rich nations to invest in projects abroad and receive credit for reducing emissions domestically. Yvo de Boer, head of the U.N. Climate Change Secretariat, acknowledged the need to consider this issue, along with other proposals such as capturing and storing carbon dioxide from coal-fired power plants and increasing efforts to promote reforestation. Various countries and environmental activists are against the idea of extending the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to encompass nuclear energy. The CDM, a component of the United Nations' Kyoto Protocol aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions until 2012, is being criticized for potentially including nuclear power. Martin Hiller from the WWF conservation organization stated that nuclear power is not the way forward and should not be a part of the CDM, which should focus on promoting renewable energy sources. He stated that despite emitting minimal greenhouse gases compared to coal, oil, and gas, nuclear power was considered too risky. The discussions in Bonn regarding the restructuring of the CDM, as part of negotiations for a new U.N. climate treaty to replace the Kyoto Protocol, will not result in any decisions. Many delegates are against including nuclear power in the CDM, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding whether nuclear power should be used as an alternative to fossil fuels to combat climate change. De Boer estimated that the CDM could potentially provide up to $100 billion annually to developing nations if industrialized countries agreed to significant emission reductions and allocated half of those reductions to foreign countries. The assumption was made that credits for preventing greenhouse gas emissions would average $10 per ton. The CDM has approved or is considering projects that would prevent a total of 2.7 billion tonnes of emissions by 2012, which is roughly equal to the annual emissions of Japan, Germany, and Britain combined. De Boer disagreed with criticisms that the CDM was flawed, such as benefiting carbon traders and companies in China that destroy HFC 23, a potent greenhouse gas. He argued that removing this gas and making a profit is not morally wrong, as the market mechanism is effective. Other critiques of the program question if the funding has resulted in reductions in emissions, or if these reductions would have occurred regardless due to preexisting government support for wind power in China or India. | 2 |
In France and Austria, the pandemic highlighted the debate between planes and trains. The French government's COVID bailout for Air France stipulated that the airline must stop domestic flights if there was a train option under 2 1/2 hours, which became law. Similarly, the Austrian government required Austrian Airlines to discontinue its short flight between Vienna and Salzburg, a route easily accessible by train in three hours. The European Commission declared 2021 as the "Year of European Rail" to promote train travel, especially to younger individuals. Despite passenger traffic increasing steadily until 2019, train travel only accounted for 8% of all passenger travel in the European Union before the pandemic. European leaders are not only focusing on public relations to promote cross-border train travel, but they are also working on reducing practical barriers by implementing new data-sharing systems, updating infrastructure, and constructing new high-speed routes, especially in Central and Eastern Europe. Alberto Mazzola, executive director of the Community of European Railways and Infrastructure Companies, believes that with these improvements, businesspeople will choose trains for trips under four hours and tourists for trips under six hours. Government leaders are now backing railway infrastructure, particularly high-speed lines, which marks a significant change from 20 years ago when similar promises were made but not fulfilled. The rise of night trains in Europe is contributing to the increasing popularity of rail travel on the continent. Night trains have been on the decline since the 1990s due to the growth of low-cost airlines and high-speed trains. However, there has been a recent resurgence in interest in night trains across Europe, with new sleeper connections being introduced. According to Alain Krakovitch, the director of travel at SNCF, France's state-owned railway company, there is a strong demand for night trains from both customers and government officials. SNCF has recently relaunched overnight services between Paris and Nice, offering tickets starting at 19 euros, compared to 31 euros for a short flight on EasyJet. SNCF also provides overnight services between Paris and Toulouse, as well as between Paris and Lourdes in the southwest of France. During July and August, there will be a night train to Hendaye, a coastal town near the Spanish border. Additionally, a direct overnight service without any changes between Paris and Berlin is set to start in December 2023 through a collaboration of four European operators. According to Krakovitch, there has been a strong demand for these services, making them very appealing to passengers. Krakovitch stated that the concept of falling asleep in Paris and waking up in Nice eliminates the need for a night in a hotel, allowing travelers to arrive in Nice early and refreshed. Despite the benefits, a significant investment was required to relaunch this service, with hopes of maintaining its success. This trend is also seen in other parts of Europe, such as the Swiss Federal Railways introducing a new overnight connection from Zurich to Amsterdam, with stops in Basel and Cologne. This adds to existing overnight services connecting Zurich to various other cities like Berlin, Budapest, Prague, and Zagreb. European Sleeper, a company started by two entrepreneurs from the Netherlands and Belgium, is working on creating an overnight train route connecting Brussels to Prague with stops in cities like Amsterdam and Berlin. They are aiming to start the service in the summer, although the exact launch date is still uncertain. At the same time, ÖBB's Nightjet service has recently introduced an overnight connection between Vienna and Paris, offering a variety of ticket options ranging from 30 euros for a regular seat to 200 euros or more for a first-class private cabin, depending on the travel date. Nightjet also operates routes to other cities such as Rome, Milan, Brussels, and Amsterdam, with the option for passengers to book private compartments, some of which include a private shower and toilet. Prices vary based on the amenities provided, with a couple traveling from Vienna to Amsterdam on a weeknight in July able to book two seats in a private compartment for a total of 129 euros. In another option, they have the choice to select a two-bed sleeper cabin for 378 euros for both passengers, which also includes breakfast. If they prefer to have a private shower and toilet, the price increases to 418 euros. Currently, all of the Nightjet's trains are being utilized, but there are plans to introduce new services in the future, with over 30 new sleeper trains expected to be available starting in 2023. Despite the benefits of night trains providing new travel options, they are limited to specific routes. Challenges persist for individuals seeking to travel between cities not connected by rail networks, as booking tickets and pricing can be problematic. Despite the European Union's backing of rail travel, governments within the bloc continue to provide significant subsidies to airlines, including bailout packages and low taxes on jet fuel. While recent bans on short-haul flights in France and Austria garnered attention, the actual impact was limited to only a few routes. In France, passengers can still fly on these banned routes if they are part of a longer journey. Herwig Schuster, a Greenpeace transport campaigner, believes that the recent measures taken by France and Austria to limit short-haul flights are just the beginning. He suggests that the European Union should ban flights that have a train alternative taking under six hours, rather than just two or three. This could eliminate about one-third of Europe's popular short-haul routes. Schuster argues that consumers are ready for this change, as a recent survey showed that 62% of Europeans support a ban on short-haul flights. The main challenge would be ensuring that train options are as affordable as flights. Despite the environmental benefits, flying remains cheaper for certain European routes, such as Zurich to Barcelona, London to Madrid, Copenhagen to Rome, and Paris to Budapest. Mark Smith, who operates The Man in Seat 61 website providing train travel resources, mentioned that Europe's extensive rail network lacking a unified ticketing system is a challenge. Despite this, he believes that trains can offer good value compared to planes, especially when factoring in additional costs like baggage fees and airport transportation. Smith suggests booking train tickets in advance, similar to flights, to save money and avoid last-minute price increases. He recommends using websites like Trainline and Rail Europe for booking multicountry trips in Europe. Although some travelers may pay more for train tickets, many still choose this mode of transportation. Smith started his website two decades ago and found that most individuals interested in long-distance train travel were either afraid of flying or unable to do so for medical reasons. Nowadays, he notes a shift in perspective, with people expressing a desire for a less stressful and more intriguing travel experience, as well as a desire to reduce their carbon footprint. | 2 |
The agency announced an upgrade in India's rating from Baa3 to Baa2, with a stable outlook, due to balanced risks in India's credit profile. This is the first upgrade by Moody's for India since January 2004, placing it just above "junk" status, higher than Standard & Poor's and Fitch. The decision by Moody's is seen as recognition of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government and its reforms. This news, coupled with India's improved ranking in the World Bank's ease of doing business index, led to a positive reaction in Indian markets. Lakshmi Iyer, head of fixed income at Kotak Mutual Fund, described the news as a pleasant surprise. The decision to upgrade the ratings is seen as a positive development for bonds that were previously struggling. This change is expected to result in a decrease in yields across different time periods. Despite India's efforts to persuade Moody's to upgrade its rating last year, the agency was hesitant due to concerns about the country's debt and banking system. However, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley believes the upgrade is a recognition of the government's efforts to improve the economy. Additionally, Prime Minister Modi's colleagues view it as another success for him, especially after a recent survey showed high public approval ratings for him. Some economists expressed skepticism about the likelihood of other major rating agencies following Moody's lead in upgrading India's credit rating. Radhika Rao from DBS highlighted concerns about slow growth due to reforms, a struggling rural sector, and low investment, as well as the risks posed by increasing oil prices. She suggested that Fitch and S&P may not rush to upgrade India's rating, as they have expressed reservations about the financial stability of state and central governments. Finance Minister Jaitley stated that the government remains committed to fiscal consolidation, aiming for a fiscal deficit of 3.2 percent of GDP in the current year and 3 percent in the following year. He stated that they will continue to adhere to fiscal discipline, expressing confidence that current policies will help India move towards a stronger financial position. Moody's upgraded the ratings of several top Indian financial institutions and energy companies, as well as the National Highways Authority of India, which could result in lower borrowing costs for them. The Indian markets experienced a surge, with the 10-year bond yield dropping to 6.94 percent before closing at 7.05 percent, the rupee strengthening to 65.02 per dollar, and the main Mumbai stock index closing 0.67 percent higher. However, bond traders cautioned that due to high bond supply and a pessimistic inflation outlook, the market rally may not be sustained for long. A bond trader at a private bank questioned who would be brave enough to keep buying in the current market. Moody's stated that the introduction of the goods and services tax (GST) in India would increase productivity by eliminating barriers to trade between states. Marie Diron from Moody's said that the upgrade took into account the potential impact of the GST reform on growth. She also mentioned that Moody's considered a higher government deficit but believed in the government's commitment to fiscal consolidation. However, some market participants raised concerns about the timing of the upgrade, with one foreign bank describing it as risky due to worries about the government's fiscal discipline. Moody's predicted that India's real GDP growth would slow to 6.7 percent in the fiscal year ending in March 2018 from 7.1 percent the previous year. The agency also upgraded India's local currency senior unsecured debt rating to Baa2 from Baa3 and its short-term local currency rating to P-2 from P-3. Moody's stated that although some important reforms are still in the early stages, it is confident that those already in place will help the government achieve its goal of enhancing the business environment, increasing productivity, and encouraging investment. Moody's also mentioned that India has a much greater growth potential in the long term compared to other sovereigns with a Baa rating. | 2 |
The mountain, which had been drawn on a piece of cardboard, served as a backdrop for an online performance at the Leicester Comedy Festival. However, Ives emphasized that it was more than just a prop; it symbolized the daily challenges faced by transgender individuals in Britain, who must constantly confront adversities as if climbing a hill. Despite the tough premise for a comedy show, Ives assured that she was well-equipped to tackle the subject as a transgender person herself. The increased visibility of transgender individuals in British culture has also brought about opposition to transgender rights, both in traditional media and on social platforms. In stand-up comedy, a reflection of societal concerns, transgender issues have often been treated as a joke. In a recent phone interview, Jen Ives, a trans comedian, discussed the pressure she sometimes feels to represent the entire transgender community on stage. Unlike the United States, where transgender issues are split along political lines, in Britain, voices from both the left and right have expressed concerns about allowing transgender women to use bathrooms that match their gender identity. JK Rowling, the author of the popular "Harry Potter" books, is one of the most well-known figures in Britain to voice these concerns, leading to accusations of transphobia. In a 2018 study from UCLA, it was found that concerns about safety and privacy regarding transgender individuals were unfounded. Dan Healey, an academic at the University of Oxford's Centre for Gender, Identity, and Subjectivity, explained in a phone interview that the debate over transgender rights in Britain is more prominent compared to the United States. He mentioned that there are two groups of feminists in the debate - those who believe trans women are women and those who do not. British comedian Jen Ives expressed concern over the treatment of trans people in the UK, stating that it feels like there is an effort to dehumanize them. Ives, 30, stated that transgender individuals are often not seen as human beings, but rather as a topic of debate or a passing trend. She has been discussing her experiences as a transgender person since starting stand-up comedy in 2017, and audiences appreciated her willingness to address the subject. Her show "Peak Trans" was created in response to the negative atmosphere towards transgender individuals in Britain. Ives believes that making people laugh may not change their opinions, but it does show them that transgender individuals are real people. Even when discussing serious issues, Ives always included humor in her performance. She mentioned that being transgender is not the only aspect of her identity, also noting that she is a vegetarian. Despite wanting to go vegan, she felt that as a trans woman, she had already caused her father enough stress. Transgender comedians have been performing in Britain for many years, with well-known figures like Eddie Izzard using she/her pronouns and dressing in feminine attire since the 1990s. Debra-Jane Appleby and Bethany Black, both trans stand-up comedians, have achieved success in the British comedy scene. Black once stated that most people do not care about her being trans, and she chuckled when reminded of this during a recent video interview. "Yeah, that's changed a bit," she remarked. In the past, people believed there were only a few transsexuals in the world, around 10 or 15, she explained. But now, the perception has shifted to thinking they are widespread and trying to participate in sports. Despite her tendency to joke about transphobia during her performances, Black admitted that the ongoing debate in Britain about trans individuals has negatively affected her well-being. She disclosed that she was diagnosed with agoraphobia a couple of years ago, attributing much of it to the constant feeling of being embroiled in this ongoing battle. Black also expressed frustration with comedians and TV shows that resort to making thoughtless jokes about transgender individuals. These jokes had become a common aspect of some popular comedians' acts, which James Acaster poked fun at in a 2019 performance. Despite many comedians claiming to be bold and supportive of free speech, they would avoid making these jokes when performing on the same bill as her, according to Black. One comedian who did not shy away from controversial jokes was Adam Rowe, who had a routine about Victoria's Secret not casting transgender or plus-size models in their shows. In a photo taken remotely, British comedian Bethany Black is shown on February 25, 2021. Black spoke about the challenges of being transgender, emphasizing that it is a daily reality for her, not just a hypothetical situation. She mentioned that many British comedians make jokes about trans people, but they tend to avoid these jokes when she is also performing. In a recent routine, the comedian made a joke about someone having hands like shovels. He also mentioned that Victoria’s Secret had recently cast a transgender model. Bethany Black, a British comedian, spoke about her experience as a transgender person, stating that it is something she deals with every day. She mentioned that many British comedians make jokes about trans people but usually avoid them when she is on the same lineup. The comedian defended the joke in an email. He stated that the routine is not transphobic and was actually designed to deceive people who are not paying attention into thinking that it is. He mentioned that people often get caught up in buzzwords. Ives observed that some non-trans comedians can successfully perform trans material and it can be very funny. She acknowledged that she is able to laugh at herself, but at times it can feel like a mean-spirited insult. She shared that she has frequently had to follow male comedians who have made jokes about transgender women during her career. In those situations, she usually mocks the comedian in return, viewing it as making the best of a bad situation. "I'd prefer not to." During her recent performance, Ives slowly guided her audience towards the metaphorical Peak Trans, pausing to make jokes about transgender individuals in sports and her own coming out process. However, as they neared the summit, one topic became unavoidable. "I apologize," Ives remarked. "We need to address JK Rowling." Ives began by joking about Rowling's latest book "Troubled Blood," which includes a male murderer who pretends to be a woman. Ives expressed a desire to speak out as an activist against it, but noted the challenge of the book's length, which is 1,000 pages. Rowling's desire for individuals like Ives to refrain from using women's spaces and use men's toilets was expressed by Ives. She also likened trans women to spiders, noting similarities in fear levels between trans women and others. | 2 |
The most severe financial crisis in 80 years has severely impacted emerging markets, leading to emergency actions by central banks and calls for international assistance to prevent investors from fleeing. In the United States, AT&T Inc and Boeing reported disappointing earnings, Merck & Co announced job cuts, and Wachovia Corp suffered a record $23.9 billion loss in the third quarter. Emerging market stocks, sovereign debt, and currencies experienced significant pressure as investors liquidated positions due to concerns about the weakening global economy. Despite efforts by authorities to stabilize the financial system, fears of a global recession persisted. Hungary raised interest rates by three percentage points in order to protect its currency, the forint. Belarus's central bank requested financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund, while Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko anticipated significant financial aid from the IMF for her country. The IMF is also prepared to assist Pakistan and Iceland, as they face financial challenges. Neil Dougall, chief economist for emerging markets at Dresdner Kleinwort, noted that capital is now shifting from emerging markets back to developed markets. Optimism appears to be overshadowed by various officials' positive outlook on the financial crisis, despite the challenges it poses. U.S. Treasury Undersecretary David McCormick mentioned that the U.S. economy may face difficulties in the coming quarters but could potentially see recovery by late next year. Mervyn King, governor of the Bank of England, also indicated that the worst may be over for the financial system. Bringing confidence back to the financial market is crucial in this situation. He mentioned on Tuesday that we still have a long way to go before reaching stability. However, the plan to strengthen our banking system, both domestically and internationally, will likely be recognized as a turning point in the banking crisis of the past year. This was supported by a decrease in U.S. dollar short-term funding costs in London and Asia, indicating that banks are starting to rebuild trust among themselves. Russia, a strong emerging market that has been heavily impacted by the crisis, also reported improvements in bank lending, with interbank lending returning to normal levels. The rates are decreasing after being high, and banks are beginning to lend to sectors again. However, First Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov stated that it will take two or three weeks for the situation to improve, according to the Financial Times. Despite efforts to combat financial collapse, there is a looming fear of recession due to the deteriorating global economic climate. Minutes from the Bank of England's recent meeting indicated a significant decline in the UK economy, with Governor King suggesting it may be entering its first recession in 16 years. Financial markets were filled with concerns, leading to a poor start on Wall Street. Dow Jones industrial average futures were down 259 points, European shares dropped over 4.4 percent, and Japan's Nikkei average fell by 6.8 percent. Emerging markets were also affected, with MSCI's sector index hitting its lowest point since June 2005. Sovereign debt spreads widened beyond 700 basis points over Treasury yields for the first time since early 2003. Various currencies, excluding the forint, experienced declines, with the Turkish lira reaching a low not seen in over two years and South Africa's rand dropping to its lowest level in more than 6 years against the dollar. Sanjay Mathur, an economist at the Royal Bank of Scotland in Singapore, stated that we will need to address the challenges of a business cycle downturn, which is likely to be quite severe. Various US companies reported their quarterly results on Wednesday, providing a glimpse of the economic conditions in different industries and sectors in the world's largest economy. Although tobacco companies Philip Morris International and Reynolds American Inc, as well as fast-food chain McDonald's Corp, exceeded analysts' expectations with their profits, they were exceptions in an otherwise gloomy picture. | 2 |
Michael Strizki is able to heat and cool his house and run various appliances, including power-hungry ones like a hot tub and wide-screen TV, without paying for utilities. His ordinary-looking family home in western New Jersey is the first in the US to demonstrate that a blend of solar and hydrogen power can produce enough electricity for a household. The Hopewell Project, named after a nearby town, is addressing concerns about US energy security and the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels. Gian-Paolo Caminiti of Renewable Energy International, the project's commercial branch, believes that people are aware of climate change but may not know how to address it. He emphasizes the emotional satisfaction that comes from making environmentally friendly choices. Strizki operates a 3,000-square-foot house using electricity from solar power generated by photovoltaic cells on a nearby building. The excess energy is stored as hydrogen in tanks for use in the winter when solar panels can't meet all the demand. In addition to powering his house, Strizki uses the hydrogen to fuel his car, which is also pollution-free. Despite solar power currently only contributing 0.1 percent of US energy needs, the number of installations is growing and the cost of making solar panels is decreasing. As costs decrease and the search intensifies for clean alternatives to costly and polluting fossil fuels, some analysts are predicting that solar energy will experience significant growth in the next five to 10 years. The New Jersey project, which was completed in October 2006 after four years of planning and construction, had a total cost of around $500,000, with $225,000 of that funding coming from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. New Jersey, a leading advocate for renewable energy, has a goal of having 20 percent of its energy derived from renewables by 2020 and currently has the second largest number of solar-power installations in the US, behind only California. The state's utility regulator supported the project as it aligns with their renewable-energy objectives, according to Doyal Siddell, a spokesperson for the agency. "The solar-hydrogen residence project presents a significant opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change," Siddell stated. The project received support from various commercial sponsors, such as Exide and Swageloc, who donated equipment worth thousands of dollars. Strizki also contributed around $100,000 of his own money. While the initial cost may be prohibitive for most, the project is intended to be replicated at a lower cost. After covering research and design expenses, the estimated price for replication would be around $100,000. However, this is still considered too expensive for widespread replication, according to Marchant Wentworth from the Union of Concerned Scientists. In order for such installations to become widespread, they would need to have the capability to sell excess power back to the grid, creating a source of income that could attract investment, according to Wentworth. Caminiti suggests that the cost of a hydrogen/solar system comes out to be approximately $4,000 annually when the $100,000 initial cost is divided over the 25-year expected lifespan. This is significantly higher than the average yearly energy expenditure of $1,500 for the typical American homeowner, as reported by the federal government. Even when factoring in the average annual cost of gasoline for a car, which is around $1,000, the renewable energy option remains more expensive than the combination of grid electricity and gasoline. Strizki and his team view the house as more than just a financial investment. They see it as a way to promote energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels from the Middle East. Additionally, they believe it is important to lead a sustainable lifestyle that does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Strizki, who is 51 years old, considers this project to be his life's purpose, stating, "I have devoted myself to improving the planet." | 2 |
The Financial Times reported on Friday that Victor Mallet, the newspaper's Asia news editor, did not have his work visa renewed by the Hong Kong government without explanation. The newspaper stated that this situation was unprecedented in Hong Kong and they were not given a reason for the rejection. The Hong Kong government declined to comment on the specific case, stating that the Immigration Department makes decisions on visa applications based on individual circumstances and existing laws and policies. Mallet, who is a British national, serves as the first vice president of the Hong Kong Foreign Correspondents' Club and was the club's main spokesperson during a controversial event in August involving a Hong Kong independence advocate. Mainland China often denies resident work visas to foreign journalists and media organizations as a form of punishment, but Hong Kong, which has stronger protections for civil liberties, has traditionally been more respectful of free speech. The decision to expel Mallet from Hong Kong has caused concern among human rights advocates, as it blurs the line between Hong Kong and mainland China. This unprecedented move is expected to have a chilling effect on freedom of expression in the city, according to experts. Ng stated that as Beijing continuously adjusts what topics are considered 'sensitive' and off-limits, there is a growing pressure for institutions and individuals to practice self-censorship. This poses a threat to free expression and the free flow of ideas, which negatively impacts Hong Kong's reputation as a cosmopolitan city that upholds the rule of law. He suggested that the expulsion of the Foreign Correspondents' Club was a clear act of retaliation by authorities to punish the organization. In August, the Foreign Correspondents' Club hosted a talk by Andy Chan, the leader of a political party advocating for Hong Kong's independence from China. The Hong Kong government had previously announced its intention to ban Chan's party, the Hong Kong National Party, citing a colonial-era law that allows for the prohibition of groups for reasons of national security, public safety, or public order. Both Hong Kong and Chinese officials criticized the event. Leung Chun-ying, who served as the city's top official from 2012 to 2017, went even further by comparing the talk to hosting supporters of "racism, anti-Semitism or Nazism" and suggesting that the Hong Kong government should reassess the lease of the FCC's clubhouse in a historically significant, publicly owned building in central Hong Kong. Mallet, an experienced Financial Times editor who previously served as the newspaper's bureau chief in New Delhi, stated during Chan's talk that the club viewed it as a routine event related to an important news story in Hong Kong. He remarked that the unusual level of interest generated by this lunch, both in Hong Kong and internationally, was more indicative of the political climate in Hong Kong and Beijing rather than reflecting on the FCC itself. Last month, Hong Kong banned Chan's party. According to the law, individuals claiming to be party officeholders could face imprisonment for up to three years, while those providing a meeting place for the group could be imprisoned for up to a year for a first offense. Hong Kong, which has its own immigration policy and internal border with China, has previously refused visas to academics and political activists. In the past, scholars from Taiwan were denied entry, as were leaders of Taiwan's 2014 protests against a trade bill with China. The recent denial of a visa renewal for a foreign journalist indicates an expansion of these restrictions. The Financial Times journalist is the first to have a visa renewal denied in Hong Kong, and human rights and free speech groups cannot recall any other foreign journalist being expelled. In 2011, Hong Kong officials rejected a work visa for Chang Ping, a well-known journalist from mainland China who had been offered a job at a Hong Kong newspaper. This kind of treatment towards foreign journalists is much more common in mainland China. Megha Rajagopalan, who served as BuzzFeed News' China bureau chief and had written articles about the widespread detention of Uighurs and other Muslim minorities in western China, did not receive a new journalist visa this year. Ursula Gauthier, a reporter for the French newsweekly L'Obs based in Beijing, had her visa renewal denied in 2015 after questioning China's treatment of Uighurs. The New York Times and Bloomberg also faced obstacles in obtaining new journalist visas in China following reports in 2012 about the wealth amassed by Chinese leaders' families. In a speech that was confrontational towards China, Vice President Mike Pence criticized the country's limitations on foreign journalists, stating that these restrictions are a part of the Communist Party's agenda to enforce censorship. | 2 |
Bulgarians are voting in a parliamentary election in hopes of jumpstarting reforms to address corruption and repair an economy that has suffered from the global crisis. The Socialist party, currently leading the coalition government, is expected to lose due to recession and a culture of impunity for criminals and politicians, making Bulgaria an outcast in the European Union. Last year, the country lost access to EU aid due to corruption. The center-right opposition party, led by Sofia Mayor Boiko Borisov, may have the opportunity to form a new government, likely through a coalition. Borisov, a former bodyguard turned politician, has vowed to address crime, but there are concerns about his ability to implement reforms in a coalition government. Pollsters say that his party currently receives about 30 percent of the vote, while the ruling Socialists receive about 20 percent. A former teacher named Pepa Kozhuharova, 64, expressed her frustration with the government as she cast her vote in a Sofia neighborhood, stating that the country is in need of change and that corrupt politicians are no longer desired. Borisov, known for his straightforwardness and nicknamed Batman for his proactive approach, has gained popularity among Bulgarians who are tired of slow reforms over the past twenty years. After voting in Sofia, Maria Nikolova, 50, explained her support for Boiko because she believes he is the only man who can effectively address what is wrong and right and take action on it. The new government needs to act quickly to avoid EU sanctions on aid, which is crucial for Bulgaria's struggling economy, and to attract investors who have left the country. It is uncertain if GERB will secure enough votes for a solid majority in the 240-seat chamber with their planned coalition partners, the Blue Coalition. Despite the current government's efforts to bring Bulgaria into the EU and implement tax cuts and strict fiscal policies, critics argue that it has been ineffective and unwilling to break ties between politicians, judges, and criminal leaders. Highlighting the extent of the issue, prosecutors are investigating widespread accusations of vote-buying by all parties before the election, resulting in the arrest of at least five individuals on Saturday. Concerns have been raised by EU countries regarding suspected criminals participating in the parliamentary race to gain temporary immunity and release from custody. Bulgaria, facing a recession after 12 years of growth due to the global financial crisis, is experiencing mass protests as rising unemployment halts private spending and increases debt. The economy is projected to contract by 2 percent in 2009, and like other former Soviet bloc countries now in the EU, Bulgaria may turn to the International Monetary Fund for assistance. Voting began at 6 a.m. (11 p.m. EDT on Sunday) and will conclude at 7 p.m., followed by the release of exit polls. By 6 a.m. EDT, voter turnout was recorded at 29.3 percent. | 2 |
The World Bank announced on Saturday that the funding will benefit rural communities by reducing poverty and creating new job opportunities. It will also assist the local communities in Cox’s Bazar that are hosting Rohingya refugees who have escaped violence in Myanmar. World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, Qimiao Fan, stated that these projects will provide opportunities for rural residents and help vulnerable individuals lift themselves out of poverty, while also enhancing the country's ability to withstand the effects of climate change. The Sustainable Forests & Livelihoods Project, worth $175 million, aims to increase forest cover through collaborative management involving local communities, with plans to plant trees in approximately 79,000 hectares of forest, including a coastal green belt to bolster climate change resilience. Madhavi Pillai, a Senior Natural Resources Management Specialist at the World Bank, stated that the project aims to increase income for approximately 40,000 households in various districts of Bangladesh, including Cox's Bazar where many Rohingya refugees have sought shelter. The project will work on developing and implementing protected area management plans for 10 Protected Forest Areas with community involvement. The $240 million Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries Project by the World Bank will focus on improving fisheries management, expanding mariculture, and enhancing aquaculture biosecurity and productivity in 10 coastal districts. Additionally, the project will provide support for female workers through alternative livelihoods, skills development, and nutrition awareness, aiming to improve fisheries management systems, infrastructure, and value chain investments. Milen Dyoulgerov, a World Bank Senior Environment Specialist and Task Team Leader for the project, stated that the $100 million additional financing for the Second Rural Transport Improvement Project will lead to enhanced productivity and availability of fish. This funding will be used to repair rural roads in 26 districts that were damaged by heavy rainfall and floods last year. The ongoing project has already improved and fixed over 5,000 km of rural roads, allowing millions of people to reach markets, hospitals, and schools. The financing will prioritize climate-resilience in the planning, design, implementation, and upkeep of the roads. | 2 |
The 16-year-old Swedish activist criticized world leaders for failing to live up to their promises and plans, stating at a large rally in Montreal that young people will continue to strike and march until their voices are heard. Despite facing mockery and criticism from figures such as Trump and Canadian Member of Parliament Maxime Bernier, Thunberg believes that they are trying to silence her because they feel threatened by the growing movement. "We should view that as a compliment," she said. The climate strikes she sparked began in Asia on Friday and then moved to Europe following similar strikes the previous week. In New Zealand, tens of thousands of students initiated the strikes. In Seoul, South Korea, around 500 students called for more government action on climate change by marching towards the presidential Blue House after a rally in the city center where they criticized the government's lack of action. Thousands of Dutch children also participated in a global climate strike on Friday by skipping school, blocking traffic, and questioning their leaders with the phrase "how dare you?". In reference to Thunberg's speech at the United Nations, Matthew McMillan, a 22-year-old mechanical engineering student at Concordia University in Montreal, held a poster that read "Make America Greta Again" as he participated in a protest with other students. McMillan described the event as the most important of their generation. Nine-year-old Xavier Damien Tremblay, along with his three younger siblings and mother Maude Richard, also joined the protest, holding placards and chanting "protect the planet." Xavier expressed concern for the planet's future, emphasizing that it is at stake. Trudeau met with Thunberg in Canada during the lead-up to the federal election on Oct. 21. Thunberg stated that Trudeau is not doing enough to address climate change, emphasizing the importance of politicians listening to and acting on scientific evidence. Trudeau is pledging to take more action on climate change, but he has also faced criticism for his choice to purchase and extend a significant oil pipeline in western Canada. At one of Trudeau's campaign events, a man was removed by police after yelling, "You are the problem! Climate criminal!" Another man tried to throw eggs at the prime minister during a march in Montreal, but police intervened and tackled him. Video footage showed Trudeau comforting his scared and crying son after an incident. Trudeau described his meeting with Thunberg as a "wonderful conversation" where they discussed the urgent need to take more action. In Montreal, United Nations aviation leaders are currently attending a meeting of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to discuss ways to reduce the aviation sector's carbon emissions. While commercial flying currently accounts for 2.5% of emissions, experts warn that emissions will increase as passenger numbers are expected to double by 2037. ICAO expressed support for the recent climate march and emphasized the need for more action and innovation to address the impact of aviation on the environment. | 2 |
They appeared to be helpful, but Martha Agbani, the women's leader, detected a sense of danger. She had encountered these men in Yaataah before and knew their offer came with a threat - pay up or face consequences. Agbani's priority was to provide employment opportunities for women, as she had witnessed the challenges faced by women in Ogoniland, who have long fought against oil companies and struggled to be heard. She was determined to prevent men from interfering with her new project of establishing a large nursery to grow hundreds of thousands of mangrove plants for sale to the Nigerian subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell. This company was responsible for destroying many of the mangroves in Ogoniland. Agbani, a strong woman with a warm personality, was hoping to create a business that would empower women financially and help restore the damaged environment. Mangroves have important natural functions, such as filtering water, preventing erosion, and providing a habitat for aquatic life that sustains humans. The Niger Delta used to have a thriving mangrove ecosystem that humans coexisted with harmoniously for centuries. However, the introduction of oil production, which the Nigerian government heavily relies on for revenue, has led to the decline of the mangrove forests. In 2011, a significant report was released by the United Nations Environment Program on pollution in Ogoniland, stating that it could take up to 30 years to address. However, the government entity responsible for remediation, the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, has been sluggish in taking action. Following oil spills in 2007 and 2008 that devastated mangrove forests near Bodo, Shell agreed to compensate the community, clean up the oil, and replant. Recognizing an opportunity, Agbani saw that the company would require numerous mangroves, essential for protecting coastlines and providing crucial habitats for marine life in the Niger Delta region. She began by growing mangroves in her yard, then searched for a location to create a nursery. This led her to Yaataah, where the creek used to be filled with mangrove forests but had been depleted due to environmental disasters and the invasion of nipa palms. She organized the project's launch there and brought over 100 female mangrove planters to celebrate in late 2019. However, during the event, young men unexpectedly arrived and demanded money and snacks intended for the women. When she confronted them, explaining that the women had come to assist in revitalizing the land so that their female family members could resume harvesting periwinkles, they assaulted her. She recalled, "They were pulling me from behind. It turned into a terrible situation." Disturbed by the incident, Agbani and her group departed from Yaataah and did not come back for several months. She opted to establish the nursery in a different location; a community leader permitted her to use land near the contaminated areas in Bodo. However, she still felt a strong attachment to Yaataah. The creek was a suitable spot for practicing the cultivation of mangroves directly from seeds in the wild, rather than using plastic grow bags from the nursery in Bodo. In May 2021, the women returned to plant the mangroves, carrying sacks on their heads and wading into the creek barefoot. The water quickly became murky as they stirred up the sediment with their feet, causing Agbani to laugh and struggle to keep her footing in the mud. "Oh, dear, Martha is elderly," exclaimed the speaker. The location was ideal, with minimal oil pollution and the sounds of birds, frogs, and crickets filling the air. Similar to other creeks in the Niger Delta, this one was obstructed by nipa palms. However, Agbani had organized for villagers to clear a significant portion of the palms. The women moved quickly through the mud to the patch, passing podlike seeds from hand to hand and planting them in the mud at regular intervals as directed by Agbani. One of the women, Jessy Nubani, sang a popular call-and-response song while working. The other women harmonized with her. The young men arrived on motorcycles but stayed on shore after being scolded by Agbani. Agbani's activism was influenced by her mother's involvement in the Ogoni people's struggle against the Nigerian government and Shell in the 1990s. She dedicated years to working for the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, which was formed in response to the environmental devastation caused by multinational oil companies in the region. Agbani drew inspiration from activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, who was executed by the Nigerian government in 1995. She vividly recalls the day Saro-Wiwa was arrested while she was a student in Bori, his hometown, hiding in a drain and witnessing the city's reaction. She mentioned that chaos ensued as people ran in different directions while soldiers entered the communities, shooting in Bori. This traumatic event, along with Saro-Wiwa's advocacy for the rights of the oppressed, inspired her to advocate for her own community. She noted that although there were numerous organizations addressing environmental destruction, few focused on the rights of women who were disproportionately affected by oil pollution. She mentioned that women were always weeping and being victimized by various circumstances, and she felt the need to empower them. In Ogoniland, while men typically go deep-sea fishing, women traditionally stay close by, gathering shellfish for their soups or to sell. When there are no mangroves and shellfish to collect, women are forced to rely solely on men, resulting in an unhealthy dependence that often leads to violence. Agbani believed that the Ogoni people were responsible for caring for the environment, which they inherited from their ancestors and future generations. And it saddened her to witness young men from the area hindering and attempting to benefit from the women's work to restore it. "We have a strong drive," she explained. "We believe they don't truly comprehend the significance of restoring the environment." Before leaving, the leader of the young men threatened Agbani, saying he would take her to court. "I believe he was kidding. If he wants to file a lawsuit, that would be interesting," she remarked sarcastically, chuckling in disbelief. "That will be a great experience," she said as she left Yaataah on a rough road towards the nursery in Bodo. The driver moved aside to let a group of motorbikes pass by, carrying more young men who had come too late to receive the money that was available. Agbani was already on her way out. | 2 |
Bangladesh is the world's second-largest producer of jute, behind India. The demand for jute, known as the "golden fibre" due to its color and high price, has decreased over time. However, a Bangladeshi scientist has discovered a way to transform jute into biodegradable cellulose sheets that can be used to make eco-friendly disposable bags similar to plastic ones. Mubarak Ahmad Khan, a scientific adviser to the state-run Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation, led the team that created these new 'sonali' bags. The bags have similar physical properties to plastic and biodegrade in three months when buried in soil. They can also be recycled. Bangladesh is currently producing 2,000 bags per day on a trial basis and plans to increase production after partnering with a British-Japanese green packaging company last October. In March, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called for increased efforts to promote the widespread use of golden bags for economic and environmental benefits. In April, the government allocated $900,000 from Bangladesh's climate change trust fund to support the mass production of these bags. Mamnur Rashid, general manager of BJMC, hopes to start commercial production of the sonali bag within six months. Despite being one of the first countries to ban plastic bags in 2002, Bangladesh has struggled to enforce the ban. Currently, more than 60 countries have implemented similar bans in certain regions or cities. Khan mentioned that over 100 Bangladeshi and international companies are considering using the new jute-based shopping bags as bans on plastic widen. He stated that he receives daily inquiries from buyers in various countries such as Britain, Australia, the United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and France. Sabuj Hossain, director of Eco Bangla Jute Limited, believes there will be a high demand for the bags worldwide and hopes to export 10 million bags per month in the future. Rashid from BJMC mentioned that commercial production is expected to begin towards the end of the year. Khan mentioned that even if all the jute produced in Bangladesh was used to make sacks, the country would only be able to meet about one-third of the expected demand. Despite Bangladesh's ban on plastic bags being nearly 20 years old, millions of plastic bags are still used annually due to a lack of alternatives and poor enforcement. The government estimates that Dhaka alone uses around 410 million polythene bags per month, leading to environmental issues such as a thick layer of discarded bags in waterways like the Buriganga River. Quazi Sarwar Imtiaz Hashmi, a former official from the Department of Environment, believes that the new jute polymer bags will help alleviate pollution issues as they are biodegradable and decomposable. | 2 |
Audrey Withers, the editor who commissioned the article, appeared in the magazine's November 1941 issue. She was seen in a plaid over-shirt and pillbox hat with her staff in the basement of the magazine's headquarters on New Bond Street, putting the finishing touches on the issue amidst peeling walls and shattered glass. In the accompanying text, she declares, "Here is Vogue, in spite of it all," with the determination of a woman who, since taking over as editor in 1940 at age 35, was dedicated to providing readers with coverage of both luxury and practical topics such as coping with food shortages and clothing rationing during wartime. Withers, who started as a copy writer and administrator, was a modest figure who never expected to be chosen for the role. Audrey Withers acknowledged in her autobiography that she would not have been the right fit to edit Vogue at any other point in its history. However, her words are still relevant today, particularly in the midst of a pandemic, widespread unemployment, and social unrest. With her left-of-center politics and outspoken nature, Withers criticized the right-wing tactic of remaining silent to maintain the status quo. Her ability to navigate challenges during tumultuous times is explored in the biography "Dressed for War" by Julie Summers. Withers' legacy is being celebrated as a model for the current generation, as the publishing industry faces numerous challenges. Audrey Withers, who was photographed by Lord Snowdon in January 1960 and was once referred to as ‘the most powerful woman in London’, passed away in 2001 at the age of 96. The current editor of British Vogue, Edward Enninful, has been compared to her as both share a passion for inclusivity and social progress. In the July issue, Enninful showcases three essential workers on the cover — a train conductor, a midwife, and a supermarket clerk — along with a variety of others inside the magazine. This tribute to everyday heroes reflects a similar series commissioned by Withers, featuring men and women in traditional blue-collar jobs. Enninful acknowledges that Vogue is not typically known for chronicling everyday life, but he believes that these women represent the millions of people in the UK who bravely faced the challenges of the pandemic. This tribute comes at a time of change for fashion magazines. Harper’s Bazaar has announced that Samira Nasr, previously the executive fashion director at Vanity Fair, will be taking over as editor following Glenda Bailey's departure in January. Nasr will make history as the first black editor of the publication. She expressed her commitment to giving diverse voices a platform in a video introducing her new role. Meanwhile, Anna Wintour, editor in chief of American Vogue and artistic director of Condé Nast, has faced criticism regarding issues of race and class, particularly with recent changes at Bon Appétit magazine. In his new memoir, "The Chiffon Trenches," former Vogue mainstay André Leon Talley describes Wintour as soulless and driven by her own survival as a power broker. Despite her recent progressive actions, such as supporting Joe Biden and launching a fundraising initiative for designers, some believe it is time for a change in leadership in the fashion industry. Former editor Phillip Picardi argues that the industry needs a new mindset. Picardi suggested that the concept of leadership in society needs to be reimagined. He believes that the idea of one person being above all others is becoming outdated. Ariel Foxman, a writer and brand consultant, also believes that expecting editors to be the leaders in conversations is unrealistic. In today's media landscape, where there is increasing democratization, authoritarian magazine editors may no longer be relevant. Samir Husni, the director of the Magazine Innovation Center at the University of Mississippi, also agrees that the era of the celebrity editor is coming to an end. During times of chaos, readers are more likely to trust a brand rather than a specific editor. Michael Wolf, a media consultant, believes that editors do not need to be seen as celebrities. Instead, readers may prefer a model like Withers, who is driven by a strong sense of purpose rather than a desire for fame. Withers herself believed that fashion magazines should not ignore politics during times of crisis. In a letter to Woolman Chase, she expressed that by silently approving of the status quo, one is just as political as actively advocating for change. She supported this belief by sending journalists like Beaton and Lee Miller to the front lines. Withers, born in 1905 into a liberal family, was educated at Oxford and had various jobs before joining Vogue. Nicknamed "Austerity," she encouraged her readers to be resourceful during times of scarcity, promoting activities like growing vegetables and making their own clothes. With a minimalist approach to fashion, she set an example by wearing a limited wardrobe of three suits, blouses, a wool dress, and casual attire. When restrictions were imposed on the use of labor and materials in civilian clothing, she sought advice from the British Board of Trade on creating practical and affordable fashion options for her readers, emphasizing the importance of simplicity. She responded creatively to London's blackouts by incorporating glowing accessories and stylish gas mask bags into her magazine pages. In response to concerns about women workers getting their hair caught in machinery, she promoted short hairstyles. Additionally, she assigned Miller to cover significant events such as the siege of Saint Malo, the liberation of Paris, and Hitler's death, resulting in powerful and impactful photography, including a haunting image of a dying man receiving medical treatment in a bombed-out Normandy village. She recorded the events of the Buchenwald liberation, including the sight of emaciated bodies piled up, but only published a small photo. Withers asked journalist Jane Stockwood to write about the hardships faced under Nazi occupation in France, such as food, electricity, and water shortages, as well as the tragic massacre at Oradour-sur-Glane, where SS officers killed 190 men and burned 452 women and children alive in a church. Summers notes that this may not have been what Vogue readers wanted to read, but it was necessary for Audrey to convey the truth. This strong dedication could help revitalize fashion magazines. Picardi emphasized the importance of including political and social justice coverage alongside fashion in magazines, as they are interconnected. "What I have come to understand is that they are not." - Copyright 2020 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Lights were turned off at famous tourist sites and homes around the world on Saturday for Earth Hour 2009, a worldwide event aimed at drawing attention to the danger posed by climate change. Landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Eiffel Tower, and London's Houses of Parliament dimmed their lights as part of a campaign to promote energy conservation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels. Despite concerns about the costs associated with fighting global warming during the economic crisis, organizers believe that millions of people demonstrated their support for governments to establish a strong new U.N. agreement by the end of 2009. Kim Carstensen, head of a climate initiative at WWF, expressed optimism about the possibility of achieving a new climate deal during U.N. climate talks in Bonn. He mentioned that they were spreading the message to everyone who turned off their lights, while attendees and activists enjoyed blue cocktails. According to the U.N. Climate Panel, greenhouse gas emissions are causing the planet to warm and will result in increased floods, droughts, heatwaves, rising sea levels, and the extinction of various animals and plants. Global emissions have increased by approximately 70% since the 1970s, with China surpassing the United States as the largest emitter, followed by the European Union, Russia, and India. One billion people from nearly 90 countries are expected to participate in Earth Hour, an event aimed at addressing climate change. The U.N. Climate Panel is calling for rich nations to reduce their emissions by 25-40% below 1990 levels by 2020, while developing nations are also urged to slow the rise of their emissions. Australia initiated Earth Hour in 2007, with the event going global in 2008 and attracting 50 million participants. WWF, the organization behind Earth Hour, is optimistic about the widespread participation in this year's event. Andy Ridley, the executive director of Earth Hour, explained to reporters at Sydney's Bondi Beach that the main purpose of the event is to encourage people to consider how they can reduce their carbon footprint, even if only for an hour, and hopefully continue to do so beyond that hour. In Asia, iconic landmarks in countries such as China, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines turned off their lights as people marked the occasion with candle-lit picnics and concerts. In Singapore, buildings in the business district and major landmarks like the Singapore Flyer went dark. Other famous landmarks worldwide, including the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, the Reserve Bank in Mumbai, the dome of St Peter's Basilica in Rome, the Great Pyramids in Egypt, and the Acropolis in Athens, also participated by switching off their lights. | 2 |
The conservative state is currently one of the few EU members that does not allow marriage or civil partnerships for same-sex couples. However, supporters of a proposal, which includes the Orthodox Church and almost all political parties, want to amend the constitution to define marriage as only between a man and a woman in order to prevent gay couples from marrying in the future. Numerous human rights organizations are urging people to boycott the vote, warning that approving the change could lead to further erosion of minority rights and a shift towards populism and authoritarianism in Romania. A recent poll by CURS predicted a 34 percent turnout, exceeding the required 30 percent threshold, with 90 percent in favor of the amendment. The Coalition for the Family gathered 3 million signatures to support the change. Last year, the lower house of parliament voted in favor of a referendum, which was followed by the senate in September, marking the final stage needed for approval. Campaign posters from the Coalition encouraged people to vote "Yes" to protect family values and prevent gay couples from adopting children. An opposing advertisement suggested that a "No" vote would allow a man to marry a tree. The leader of the ruling Social Democrat Party, Liviu Dragnea, expressed concerns about potentially legalizing marriage between a man and an animal, citing examples from other countries. In the days leading up to the vote, the government relaxed anti-fraud monitoring and limited options for challenging the result, while the broadcasting regulator removed a cut-off date for campaigning. The independent think tank Expert Forum (EFOR) stated that there are currently no effective methods to verify fraud in the referendum, leading to a lack of trust in the fairness of the process. Some critics believe that the ruling PSD is using the vote as a distraction from its leader's legal issues and conflicts with the European Commission. Former Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos accused the government of trying to create anti-European sentiment to deflect criticism. The Orthodox Church has endorsed a "Yes" vote, calling it Christian, democratic, and patriotic. Romania decriminalized homosexuality in 2001, long after neighboring countries, and LGBT discrimination remains common. The photo titled "Romania 1+2" shows Romanian clergymen participating in a rally to support a "Yes" vote on an upcoming referendum. The referendum proposes changes to the constitution to prevent the future recognition of same-sex marriages. This event took place in Draganesti, Romania on October 4, 2018. The information was reported by REUTERS. | 2 |
He was addressing a prominent CSR conference in Germany. He emphasized the importance of politicians providing regulations and enforcing laws, buyers being ethical and paying fair prices, factory owners improving middle management and complying with regulations, and customers in Germany being educated. The BGCCI is the biggest bilateral chamber in Bangladesh. The 11th German CSR Forum took place in Stuttgart on April 20 and 21, and is considered the top event on Corporate Social Responsibility in Germany. The BGCCI announced that the forum's theme is "Without CSR no business success." Over 800 participants from various sectors such as private businesses, governments, NGOs, and universities attended the conference. Awards were given in six categories for outstanding practices, including CO2 reduction for climate protection, gender diversity, collaboration between companies and NGOs/NPOs, CSR in the supply chain, sustainable urban development, and the best video showcasing a company's CSR efforts. Germany is a top market for Bangladeshi garments, which benefit from duty-free access. The conference also addressed the supply chain of ready-made garments in Bangladesh. BGCCI stated that in addition to policy guidelines, there is a need for improvement in the standards of the supply chain. Jan Eggert, a sustainability consultant and former CEO of BSCI, mentioned that companies often outsource their manufacturing to independent firms overseas, making it difficult to ensure that standards are being met. The Executive Director of BGCCI emphasized the importance of shifting focus from price to sustainability in order to establish long-term business models. | 2 |
The topic of immigration is a major focus of political discussion in the country leading up to the presidential elections, with candidates from both sides of the political spectrum taking strong stances. The recent tragic incident of 27 migrants drowning off the coast of France has further fueled the debate on the need for immigration control. Despite the heated rhetoric during the campaign, the reality is that France actually has a lower proportion of immigrants in its population compared to its neighboring countries. In the last ten years, immigration rates in France have increased at a slower pace than in other parts of Europe and wealthy nations globally. According to François Héran, a migration expert at Collège de France, the immigration situation in France is considered to be "rather ordinary, rather moderate." Politicians in France have proposed measures to limit immigration, such as imposing a moratorium or closing borders, despite the country not being overrun by immigrants. In contrast, other wealthy nations like Germany and Australia have been attracting migrant workers to fill labor shortages caused by the pandemic. Rather than increasing immigration to address the shortage of workers in industries like restaurants and construction, politicians in France have focused on raising wages. Discussions about immigration in France often revolve around national identity and fears of losing traditional French identity to Muslim immigrants from Africa, fueled by the extreme right and recent terrorist attacks. These issues have had a cumulative impact in France, causing any support for immigration to be political suicide, hindering necessary reforms to attract skilled foreign workers, and leading to a more isolated country that was once a global hub. Philippe Corcuff, an expert on the far right at the Institute of Political Studies in Lyon, stated that France is now in a new phase due to the collapse of the left's stance on immigration and the growing influence of the extreme right. Candidates from the center-right Republicans party agree on the need to strengthen border control and restrict immigrants' access to social benefits. One candidate, Michel Barnier, proposed amending the constitution to allow a temporary halt on immigration for several years. On the left, most candidates have remained silent, but one former economy minister vowed to block remittances sent by migrants if their home countries refuse to take back illegal residents in France. The proposal came after President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to reduce the number of visas issued to citizens of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Far-right figure Eric Zemmour, who recently declared his candidacy for the presidency, believes that France's Christian heritage is in danger due to immigration from Muslim countries. Zemmour's candidacy has brought the previously taboo topic of the "great replacement" conspiracy theory into the election discourse, accusing Macron of using immigration to replace white, Christian people. Other candidates, including those from the center-right, have acknowledged the issue of replacement as a real problem for France, despite its association with white supremacist ideology. A recent poll found that 61% of French respondents believe that Europe's white and Christian population will be replaced by Muslim immigrants, a belief not reflected in recent elections in Germany. Germany, despite being a leader in accepting refugees, did not focus on immigration during their campaigns. The head of international migration research for the OECD noted that France has an obsession with immigration issues, even though the country's immigrant population is below the OECD average. Between 2010 and 2020, the percentage of immigrants in Germany's population increased by 16%, while in France, the percentage of immigrants grew by 30% during the same time period. France began reducing the number of workers it accepted from its former colonies in northern Africa in the 1970s, leading to a decrease in migrant workers and an increase in foreign students and family-linked arrivals. The National Front, now the National Rally, played a role in making immigration a controversial topic in French politics. Economist Auriol noted that France now accepts immigrants not primarily for work, but to be reunited with their spouses. France has a less diverse immigration population compared to other wealthy nations, with over 40% of arrivals in 2019 coming from Africa, particularly Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. This lack of diversity, along with the concentration of new immigrants in urban areas like Paris, contributes to immigration-related anxieties in the country, according to historian Patrick Weil. Unlike in the United States, where immigration and religion are separate issues, immigration in France is closely tied to its colonial history, particularly in Muslim nations like Algeria, making it a more contentious topic. Auriol, the economist, noted that fears about immigration and threats to France's Christian heritage from the right make it challenging to discuss reforming immigration policies to attract qualified foreign immigrants. She stated that the current policies hinder economic growth and recovery from the pandemic. While some changes have been made in recent years, they are not enough to draw the motivated, skilled immigrants that France needs for innovation. Auriol also pointed out that France struggles to attract citizens from other European Union nations and has difficulty retaining foreign students after graduation due to the anti-immigrant climate. "In the 20th century, Paris attracted talented individuals from around the world," she remarked. "Immigrants played a crucial role in enhancing France's economy, scientific achievements, and cultural advancements. We used to be a welcoming nation. How did we lose that?" © 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Myanmar's government and ethnic Karen rebels signed a cease-fire on Thursday in an effort to end one of the world's longest-running insurgencies. This is part of the government's overall plan to resolve conflicts with separatist groups. The agreement includes 11 points and two broad agreements to end hostilities between the military and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and begin political dialogue to resolve the 62-year conflict. This cease-fire could potentially lead to the lifting of sanctions imposed on Myanmar by the European Union and the United States. Despite previous failed peace talks, the deputy leader of the Karen National Union delegation stated that the changing climate in Myanmar under its new reform-minded government has made dialogue necessary. He expressed strong confidence in the ongoing talks, emphasizing that given the current global circumstances, peace negotiations have become imperative. He believes that the long-suffering people, who have endured the horrors of war, will be relieved to hear about these developments and finally experience the joys of peace. Since 1949, the KNU has been fighting for greater autonomy through its military wing, the KNLA, against successive governments in Myanmar. Saw David Htaw commended the government's peace negotiators for their honesty and sincerity. In addition to the issue of sanctions, achieving peace with the KNU is crucial for Myanmar's economic interests. The resurgence of conflict poses a security threat that could disrupt the construction of the $50 billion Dawei Special Industrial Zone, which is set to be Southeast Asia's largest industrial estate and a significant source of income for the country. Previous government offensives have forced hundreds of thousands of Karens from their villages, with many seeking refuge in camps in neighboring Thailand, which has struggled to accommodate the influx of refugees. Myanmar's military has been accused of mistreating the Karens and other ethnic minorities through various human rights violations such as rape, forced labor, torture, and murder. In response, the West has imposed strict sanctions. Agreements made in Pa-an in eastern Kayin State aim to resettle and rehabilitate those who have been displaced. Certain areas will allow arms, landmines will be cleared, and liaison offices will be established to promote communication. These discussions are part of ongoing talks between the government and rebel groups on Myanmar's borders with Thailand and China. An agreement has been made with the Shan State Army (South), however, discussions with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) have been disrupted by ongoing fighting, despite a directive from President Thein Sein last month to halt military operations. U.S. officials have noted that the peace process could be the most challenging task for civilian leaders looking to transition the nation away from five decades of military rule. The rebels are wary of Thein Sein's government, which includes former members of the old military regime, but they generally support Aung San Suu Kyi's vision of federalism within Myanmar's republic, a concept advocated by her late father, Aung San. | 2 |
Even though vaccines are highly effective at preventing COVID-19, recent reports of breakthrough infections and updated guidelines on mask-wearing for vaccinated individuals have caused confusion and concern. While it is true that vaccinated people can still get infected with the virus, these cases are rare compared to the unvaccinated population who are more likely to contract and spread the virus. It is important to understand that being vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others, according to Gregg Gonsalves, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Yale School of Public Health. While vaccinated individuals have more freedom, it is important to recognize that the situation is not the same as it was before the pandemic. It is also important to remember that no vaccine can provide complete protection, including against the Delta variant. Erin Bromage, a comparative immunologist and biology professor at the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, compares vaccine antibodies to a sea wall that protects a town from a storm surge. While the wall usually holds up against the waves, a powerful hurricane like Delta can breach it and allow some water to get through. Delta is much more infectious than earlier forms of the virus, posing a greater challenge to even a vaccinated immune system. Vaccinations provide extra protection, but may not always be enough when faced with a strong challenge, such as being near an unvaccinated person with a high viral load. Despite this, current vaccines in the United States are effectively preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death. Over 97 percent of COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized are not vaccinated. Recent data from Singapore indicates that vaccinated individuals who are hospitalized with delta breakthrough infections are less likely to require supplemental oxygen and clear the virus faster than unvaccinated patients. Breakthrough infections, while newsworthy, are still rare. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention no longer tracks all breakthrough cases, many states provide some data on these occurrences. The Kaiser Family Foundation recently examined state-reported data and discovered that cases of breakthrough COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths are uncommon among individuals who have been fully vaccinated. According to the analysis, the rate of breakthrough cases among fully vaccinated individuals is less than 1% in all states, with percentages ranging from 0.01% in Connecticut to 0.29% in Alaska. However, many breakthrough infections may go unreported because infected individuals may be asymptomatic or only experience mild symptoms that resolve before they consider getting tested. Dr. Asaf Bitton, executive director of Ariadne Labs at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, stated that while breakthrough infections are rare, the true level of rarity is unknown without a population-based sample. It is uncertain if many individuals with a mild sore throat for a few days have had breakthrough cases of COVID-19, as it is not a flaw of the vaccine. The vaccine campaign has potentially prevented 100,000 to 200,000 deaths. The risk of a breakthrough infection increases when giving the delta variant more opportunities to challenge the protection provided by the vaccine. Large events, such as the July 4 celebration in Provincetown, Massachusetts, or the packed Lollapalooza concert in Chicago, pose a higher risk of vaccinated individuals coming into contact with someone carrying a high viral load. The risk also depends on the number of people one interacts with and the local risk level. In the near future, there may be a significant increase in Lollapalooza outbreaks due to the close proximity of large groups of people, making it an ideal environment for the spread of the delta variant. The CDC recommends wearing masks in areas identified as orange or red zones on their color-coded map of COVID-19 outbreaks in the United States. These zones have seen over 50 cases per 100,000 people in the past week and currently encompass approximately 80 percent of counties in the country. Infection rates are staying relatively low in the Northeast and Upper Midwest, but there have been significant increases in cases in Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Florida due to the delta variant. The issue with relying on a map for case counts is that the data can change quickly, potentially leading to a surge in cases in your local area before the map is updated. Even if you believe your community is highly vaccinated with few cases, it's important to also consider the case counts and vaccination rates of nearby communities since viruses can easily spread across state and county lines. While experts generally agree that wearing a mask outdoors is not necessary if you are not in a crowded area and can maintain a safe distance from others, it is still risky to attend packed outdoor events such as concerts, and in such cases wearing a mask is recommended. J Alex Huffman, an aerosol scientist and associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Denver, recommends wearing a mask indoors when you are with people whose vaccination status is unknown, especially if you will be in close proximity to them for an extended period of time. Although he, as a fully vaccinated individual, does not always wear a mask indoors, he opts for an N95 mask when entering indoor public spaces. For maximum protection, high-quality medical masks such as N95 or KN95 are recommended. If unavailable, double masking with a surgical mask under a cloth mask can also provide strong protection. Wearing a mask with an exhale valve is not recommended as it can allow viral particles to escape, and counterfeit masks may have faulty valves that let germs in. It is important to choose the appropriate mask based on the situation. A cloth mask may suffice for a short visit to a vacant convenience store in a highly vaccinated area, but a higher-quality mask is more suitable for air travel or crowded grocery stores, particularly in communities with low vaccination rates and high case counts. Masks with straps or ties around the back of the head provide a tighter seal compared to masks with ear loops. Huffman emphasized the importance of improving mitigation efforts, particularly with the delta variant, including the use of masks. He encouraged people to upgrade to masks with high filter quality that fit tightly to the face, ensuring a good seal around the edges over the nose bridge, cheeks, and under the chin. According to Huffman, a tightly fitting mask is more effective than a loose-fitting one. Vaccinated individuals have a very low risk when they are with their vaccinated friends and family members without masks. Wearing a mask is not considered critical in indoor settings with a small group of vaccinated individuals, according to Huffman. However, there may be certain situations where extra precautions are necessary. Although it is unlikely for a vaccinated person to transmit the virus to another vaccinated individual, there is still a theoretical possibility. A vaccinated individual who frequents crowded places or travels to COVID hot spots poses a higher risk compared to someone who avoids crowds and spends time with other vaccinated individuals. With the delta variant spreading, Bitton recommends prioritizing outdoor gatherings, especially for families with unvaccinated children or high-risk family members. Holding events in a backyard or patio and reducing time spent indoors can decrease the risk of transmission. Spending time with small groups of vaccinated friends is safer than attending large parties, even if all attendees are vaccinated. When indoors, opening windows can help improve ventilation. For individuals at a very high risk, such as the elderly or immunocompromised, it may be reasonable to request testing for even vaccinated individuals before a visit. A quick and easy home test can be used to ensure that all guests are free of COVID. The decision to dine at restaurants depends on factors such as local conditions, personal health, and risk tolerance. Communities with high vaccination rates and low case counts have lower risk. For example, dining at a restaurant in Vermont, where two-thirds of the population is vaccinated, is safer than dining indoors in Alabama or Mississippi, where only one-third of residents are vaccinated. Parents of unvaccinated children and individuals with compromised immune systems, who may not receive as much protection from vaccines according to studies, may choose to order takeout or eat outdoors as an extra safety measure. Is it safe to travel? Should I avoid peanuts and water and keep my mask on? While airplanes are usually well ventilated and not a significant source of outbreaks, it is still wise to take precautions. The risk of coming into contact with an infected individual may be higher in the airport terminal, while sitting in airport restaurants and bars, or while going through security. In airplanes, the air is exchanged roughly every two to three minutes, which is a faster rate compared to grocery stores and other indoor spaces. Although passengers are required to wear masks, they can remove them to drink water or eat. Airplane ventilation systems prevent air from circulating throughout the entire cabin by containing airflow to a few rows, reducing the risk of transmission to nearby passengers. Experts recommend using a high-quality medical mask, such as an N95 or KF94, when flying to further minimize the risk of infection. If you don't have a mask, it is recommended to wear two masks. While the risk of removing a mask to eat or drink during a flight is low for vaccinated individuals, it is still better to keep it on as much as possible. The CDC advises that unvaccinated individuals, including children, should avoid flying. Bromage shared that he recently flew and briefly removed his mask to drink a beverage, but kept it on for most of the flight. He mentioned that he would feel more comfortable removing his mask to eat if he knew the people next to him were vaccinated. He mentioned that he would be more worried if the person beside him did not appear to be concerned about COVID safety measures or wore their mask incorrectly. He emphasized the importance of keeping the mask on, especially when seated next to a talkative individual. The safety of buses, subways, and trains for vaccinated individuals depends on factors such as the duration of the ride and the level of crowding. Despite the protection offered by vaccinations, the risk of exposure to the virus rises in crowded and prolonged commutes, as most public transportation systems still mandate the use of masks for all passengers. Many individuals rely on public transportation to commute to work or school, and it is advisable to wear a properly fitted medical mask or double mask while using it. If using public transit is not necessary, it is important to take into account local vaccination rates and the trend of increasing case counts before deciding to ride. When it comes to hugging and visiting older relatives or unvaccinated children, vaccinated individuals can generally do so safely without masks. However, parents of unvaccinated children should carefully consider the risks, especially when visiting older relatives. In communities where there are few cases of COVID-19 and most people are vaccinated, it is generally considered safe for unvaccinated children from one household to spend time with vaccinated grandparents. However, as the delta variant spreads and children go back to school, the risks of close contact increase for older or immunocompromised individuals who are more susceptible to severe illness from COVID-19, even if they are vaccinated. When families plan to visit a high-risk relative, it is recommended to minimize other exposures by avoiding activities like dining out or going to the gym in the week leading up to the visit. Even though the chances of a vaccinated person spreading COVID-19 are low, vaccinated grandparents should also reduce their personal exposure when spending time with unvaccinated children. "I am still very cautious about wearing masks in public settings, so I have not been wearing masks indoors with my elderly parents," said Huffman, the aerosol scientist. "If I were to have more interactions that increase my risk of exposure, I would seriously consider wearing a mask indoors when around vulnerable individuals. Rapid home tests are an extra precaution to take when visiting grandparents or family members who are immune-compromised. It is recommended to take a test a few days before the visit and also on the day of the visit. According to Bromage, home tests are a great option for those feeling anxious about the virus right now. The idea is for everyone to take a test before coming together, right before gathering, to ensure everyone is clear and can safely enjoy their time together. How can I determine if I have the delta variant?" If you test positive for COVID-19 in the US, it is highly likely that you have the delta variant, according to the CDC. The delta variant is now the dominant strain in the US and in many other countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Denmark, India, Indonesia, Israel, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, and the UK. However, standard COVID tests cannot determine if your infection is specifically caused by the delta variant or another variant of the virus. Health departments may utilize genomic sequencing to determine the prevalence of various variants within a population, but this data is not usually disclosed to individuals. If you experience low blood oxygen levels, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms, it is important to isolate and consult a healthcare professional. | 2 |
Former US Vice President Al Gore stated that Japan's top business lobby has the potential to bring about policy change regarding global warming by communicating effectively with their counterparts in the United States. Gore emphasized the influential role that the Japanese business community could play in shaping opinions within the US business community, ultimately leading to changes in US policy. He urged members of the Keidanren to send a strong message to big businesses in the United States. The United States had previously withdrawn from the Kyoto protocol, citing potential harm to the US economy. The Japanese government, as the host of the 1997 talks that created the protocol, has been urging major polluters like the United States, China, and India to increase their efforts in fighting climate change. During a recent visit to Europe, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe reinforced this message. Japan's own greenhouse gas emissions have been increasing, falling short of their goal to reduce emissions to 6 percent below 1990 levels. Al Gore emphasized the importance of Japanese businesses in leading the way in combatting climate change, stating that their determination could be the key to solving the crisis. More than 330 cities in the US have expressed their support for the Kyoto protocol, showing strong grassroots backing for its goals, according to Gore. The former presidential candidate did not respond to media inquiries on Monday. None of the business leaders at the event inquired about speculations that he may use his increased visibility from his environmental efforts to run for president again. | 2 |
This is where the melting face emoji becomes relevant. The emoji, featuring a content half-smile as it melts into a puddle, is among the 37 new emojis approved this year by the Unicode Consortium, which sets standards for digital text. Other emojis approved this year include saluting face, dotted line face, and a disco ball. These new emojis will be gradually introduced over the next year. The melting face emoji has already gained popularity on social media, with many viewing it as a symbol of the significant psychological impact of the coronavirus pandemic. One user on Twitter described the melting smiley face emoji as a reflection of the current pandemic mood, while others saw it as a symbol of climate anxiety. Another user predicted that the emoji would be frequently used in the era of climate change apocalypse. The melting face emoji was created in 2019 by Jennifer Daniel and Neil Cohn, who bonded over their love for visual language. Daniel, who goes by the pronouns they/them, is a creative director at Google and a chair for the emoji subcommittee for Unicode, while Cohn is an associate professor at Tilburg University in the Netherlands specializing in cognition and communication. Cohn’s research on representations of emotions in Japanese Visual Language, particularly the concept of "paperification" where characters in manga turn into paper when embarrassed, caught the attention of Daniel. They both realized there was no existing emoji that conveyed this visual convention, so they decided to create one. After considering different options, they settled on the melting face emoji, which Daniel described as more powerful than the paper transformation. This idea of transformation from solid to liquid is also commonly depicted. Cohn pointed out that many popular face emojis are inspired by visual conventions from comics and manga. The first emojis were created in 1999 by a Japanese artist named Shigetaka Kurita, who was inspired by manga. These emojis were intended to make text-based communication easier, as NTT Docomo, a Japanese mobile phone company, had a 250-character limit on messages. Kurita's original set of 176 emojis is now housed in the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Despite no longer having character restrictions, emojis continue to effectively convey emotions more quickly and flexibly than words, with the melting face being a prime example. On a more literal level, it can be a way to describe the feeling of a broken air conditioner. Figuratively, it can express emotions like embarrassment after a crush interaction, pandemic fatigue, or sarcasm. According to Cohn, emojis tap into a shared metaphorical understanding, such as the idea of melting, that can be applied to various emotions. Emojis are designed to be used in versatile ways, similar to how words can be used in different contexts. Visual language has the potential to be more flexible than verbal language. Illustration has the ability to convey ideas that reality cannot. For example, the concept of a "melting face" can evoke various emotional responses. Emojis themselves may not have deep meanings, but it is the way people interpret and use them that gives them significance. Graphic designer Erik Carter, who created an image of a melting face, emphasized the importance of individual interpretation. Carter expressed that a lot of people may experience a sense of despair due to issues such as climate change and the lack of action from our government. He noted that at times it may seem like the only thing we can do is put on a brave face as we face these challenges. | 2 |
The art piece "Sun & Sea (Marina)" by Lina Lapelyte, Vaiva Grainyte, and Rugile Barzdziukaite won the Golden Lion for best national participation at the Biennale, beating out 89 other national pavilions. This marks the second consecutive win for a performance piece, following the German pavilion's victory in 2017. The Golden Lion for best participant in the central exhibition went to American artist and filmmaker Arthur Jafa for his film "The White Album," which juxtaposes white supremacy with portraits of white individuals he cares for. Jafa also displayed monumental sculptures of truck tires in chains. Senior curator Catherine Wood expressed approval of the winners. Wood described the Lithuanian pavilion as creatively showcasing people's everyday activities and leisure, such as lying on towels, playing board games, applying suntan lotion, chatting, and reading, while also incorporating a strong message about ecological issues and species extinction. She noted that the pavilion combined pedestrian movement with a story that was both joyful and melancholic. The pavilion's curator, Lucia Pietroiusti, who is also curator of general ecology and live programmes at the Serpentine Galleries in London, urged museums to think more innovatively and break away from traditional exhibition formats. Pietroiusti emphasized the need for museums to explore new possibilities and move beyond their specialized niches. Then, when we are faced with major disasters such as climate change or the extinction of species, we must seek additional methods of connecting with one another. | 2 |
In Yangon, Myanmar, on Wednesday, the military arrested more individuals following the departure of a UN envoy who had visited to help stop the violent crackdown on protests. Witnesses reported that at least eight truckloads of prisoners were taken from downtown Yangon, the site of recent monk-led demonstrations against military rule and economic struggles. In one home near the Shwedagon Pagoda, only a 13-year-old girl remained after her parents were arrested. She stated that they were warned not to flee as the authorities may return. The crackdown in Myanmar continued despite some optimism about progress made by UN special envoy Ibrahim Gambari in convincing junta chief Than Shwe to ease his control and engage in talks with detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Singapore, as chair of ASEAN, noted the cooperation of the Myanmar government with Gambari. Gambari, who met Suu Kyi twice, was expected to return to Myanmar in early November after his visit to Singapore. However, it was uncertain how his efforts and international pressure would impact the junta's policies, as they typically do not respond to outside pressure or allow UN officials. There was skepticism about the potential outcomes of Gambari's mission. David Steinberg, an expert on Myanmar from Georgetown University, believes that the top leadership in the country is so stuck in their beliefs that it will not be beneficial. He mentioned that the leaders often claim they are on the path to democracy and question what more people want, in reference to the junta's "seven-step road to democracy". The initial step of this plan was completed in September after a 14-year national convention, which critics argue will only solidify military control and prevent Suu Kyi from holding office. The recent protests, the most significant challenge to the junta in nearly two decades, initially began as small demonstrations against sudden fuel price increases in August and escalated after troops used force against a group of monks. The junta claimed that the monk-led protests, which stretched five city blocks, were met with minimal force and that Yangon and other cities had returned to their normal state. They reported 10 deaths and dismissed claims of higher casualties and atrocities as falsehoods. However, Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer and other Western governments believed the actual death toll was much higher. Despite this, the junta believed they had successfully quelled the uprising, as they removed barricades around key protest sites, relaxed curfews, and released some of the detained monks. One young monk stated that most of the monks taken from his monastery were allowed to return after interrogation without physical harm. Witnesses reported that there was still a strong presence of armed forces in the streets of Yangon and Mandalay. The military regime was also conducting house-to-house searches for monks in hiding, a tactic that Western diplomats said was instilling fear among the population. The international community continued to express outrage at the violent crackdown on peaceful protests, with the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, including China, condemning the junta's actions. The Council called for the UN human rights envoy to Myanmar, Paulo Sergio Pinheiro, to be allowed to visit the country for the first time in four years, as reports indicated that thousands of people had been detained. Pinheiro emphasized the importance of illuminating the events that occurred, as he addressed the council that approved a resolution condemning acts of violence such as beatings, killings, and detentions. Myanmar accused powerful countries of using the hearing for political gain. | 2 |
The 95-year-old queen, who has received both doses of the coronavirus vaccine, joked with Palace staff just four days ago about her limited mobility. Last October, she spent a night in the hospital for an unspecified illness. The Palace confirmed today that the Queen has tested positive for COVID-19. Despite experiencing mild symptoms similar to a cold, she plans to carry out her duties at Windsor in the upcoming week. The Queen will continue to receive medical care and adhere to all necessary precautions. Prince Charles, 73, recently had to cancel an event after testing positive for COVID-19 for the second time. According to a source from the Palace, he had recently met with the queen who is the oldest monarch in the world. In early February, Elizabeth quietly celebrated the 70th anniversary of becoming the queen of Britain and several other realms after her father King George VI passed away on February 6, 1952. She is the first British sovereign to reign for seven decades in a dynasty that dates back nearly 1,000 years to Norman King William I. Throughout her historic reign, Elizabeth has managed to uphold the popularity of the British monarchy despite significant political, social, and cultural changes that could have made royalty outdated. When she came to power, Josef Stalin, Mao Zedong, and Harry Truman were leading the Soviet Union, China, and the United States, respectively, with Winston Churchill serving as British prime minister. Over the course of her reign, she has worked with a total of 14 prime ministers, which is a significant portion of the total number in Britain since Robert Walpole's time 300 years ago. Throughout her time as monarch, she has encountered 14 U.S. presidents, with the exception of Lyndon Johnson. Queen Elizabeth's dedication to her duties has earned her admiration and support in the United Kingdom and across the Commonwealth, in contrast to the controversies that have surrounded other members of the royal family. Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, expressed well wishes for Her Majesty The Queen's health and recovery. "Hope you recover soon, Ma’am." Despite strong public support for her, with approximately 80% of Britons holding a positive opinion, the monarchy has faced several challenges, such as a U.S. court case involving her son Prince Andrew. This has raised concerns about the future of the monarchy. Prince Andrew recently settled a lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager. He has denied the allegations. British police have also started investigating claims that honors were given to a Saudi national in exchange for donations to one of Prince Charles's charities, as reported in the media. | 2 |
Russian authorities conducted a raid on a property company owned by the wife of Moscow's former mayor, as part of an investigation into possible embezzlement and misuse of city funds related to a $440 million land deal. This action against property developer Inteko marks a significant development in the scrutiny of Yelena Baturina's business empire, which was led by her husband, Yuri Luzhkov. The raid involved OMON riot police and plainclothes individuals, who reportedly took the management from the office. Additionally, the Bank of Moscow and the residences of its directors were also searched in connection to an embezzlement inquiry. Investigators believe that employees at the bank and real estate developer Premiere Estate misappropriated a 13 billion roubles ($444 million) loan, with the funds ultimately reaching Baturina's personal account. Luzhkov's removal last autumn and the appointment of Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, an ally of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, led to capital outflows from Russia and weakness in the rouble. This also resulted in ownership changes in assets controlled by the city, such as Bank of Moscow, which state-controlled VTB is trying to acquire. Baturina, who holds a controlling stake in Inteko, was involved in a complex deal that is under investigation, where a 13 billion rouble loan was used to purchase land from her debt-ridden company. However, neither Inteko nor Baturina were named as suspects in the probe, and there was no implication of wrongdoing as the money was received through a legitimate land deal. Baturina criticized the recent raid, stating that it was meant to pressure her and her company. The Inteko spokesman also mentioned that there are no criminal cases against Inteko or its employees, and there is no basis for any cases. Baturina, who is a billionaire, and Luzhkov have faced accusations of corruption, which they have both denied. Corruption in the construction sector, influenced by decisions made in the mayor's office, has been a concern for businessmen. Luzhkov has denied that his wife received special treatment for projects during his time as Moscow's mayor. The presence of riot police with weapons during the search of Baturina's company is seen as a warning that her empire is being targeted by powerful groups within the elite, following Luzhkov's public challenge to Kremlin chief Dmitry Medvedev. Challenging the leadership in Russia can have serious consequences for tycoons, as they risk losing their assets, facing prosecution, and ultimately fleeing the country. President Medvedev has pledged to enhance the business environment and protect property rights, but investors believe that the lack of a reliable rule of law remains a major obstacle for business in Russia. | 2 |
The period of shared mourning and frustration was quickly followed by a year-long, countrywide discussion about the Black experience in America. Initially starting as protests that gained momentum daily, these demonstrations eventually evolved into the biggest protest movement in U.S. history. Approximately 170 Confederate symbols were either renamed or taken down from public areas. The Black Lives Matter motto was embraced by a nation coming to terms with Floyd's passing. Throughout the following 11 months, demands for racial equality would impact nearly every facet of American society on a level not seen since the civil rights movement of the 1960s, according to historians. Derek Chauvin, the white police officer who kneeled on Floyd, was found guilty of two counts of murder and manslaughter on Tuesday. The verdict provided some comfort to activists fighting for racial justice who closely followed the trial. However, many Black Americans still feel that true change is hard to come by, especially with the ongoing police killings of Black men, like Daunte Wright's recent death. There are also concerns about new laws in Republican-led states that restrict voting rights, protect law enforcement, and criminalize public demonstrations. Pastor Otis Moss III of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago believes that calling the events of the past year a racial reckoning is inaccurate. “He believes that we are struggling to rethink various aspects of society such as criminal justice, food deserts, and health disparities, but we have not made much progress in that area,” he stated. He mentioned that while the guilty verdict in the trial is a step towards justice, it does not address the underlying issues. Before the verdict was announced, Derrick Johnson compared Floyd’s death to a pivotal moment in American history, similar to what happened in Selma in 1965 which led to the passing of the Voting Rights Act. He emphasized that Floyd’s death should serve as a catalyst for significant reform in policing. The entire timeline of the Floyd case, starting from his death and protests to the trial and conviction of Chauvin, took place during the coronavirus pandemic, which highlighted racial disparities in the country. Many saw Floyd’s death as part of a pattern of racial injustice, including the deaths of other victims such as Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Sandra Bland, and Breonna Taylor. Some progress has been made towards change in the aftermath of Floyd’s death. Numerous laws aimed at reforming policing were proposed at the state level, while corporations committed significant funds to promote racial equity. The NFL issued an apology for not supporting Black players protesting against police violence. The response to backlash was also noteworthy, as racist remarks by various public figures led to job losses and participation in anti-racism training. Initially, American perspectives on racial inequality and policing underwent a noticeable shift, as demonstrated by opinion polls. Americans, especially white Americans, showed increased support for the Black Lives Matter movement, acknowledged racial discrimination as a significant issue, and agreed that excessive police force disproportionately affects African Americans. Many believed that George Floyd's death was not an isolated incident but part of a larger pattern. A New York Times poll in June revealed that over 10% of registered voters had participated in protests. Despite some Republican politicians in Washington expressing support for police reform at the time, this shift in attitude was short-lived for Republicans, both in leadership and among voters. As protests became violent and Donald Trump's reelection campaign used them in political ads, polls indicated that white Republicans were changing their views on discrimination. During the campaign, voters were faced with a choice between supporting racial equality or law and order. Republican officials who had previously spoken out about Floyd's death became quiet. According to Patrick Murray, the director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, Republicans aligned with Trump's side were hesitant to acknowledge the appalling nature of the situation for fear of losing ground, as their worldview was now seen as "us against them." And those demonstrators will be included in the group.'” Floyd’s passing did bring about some changes, at least temporarily, among non-Republican white Americans in terms of their understanding of racial injustice and advocacy for reforms. It also solidified the shift of college-educated suburban voters, who were already disheartened by what they perceived as Trump's divisive rhetoric, towards the Democratic Party. “The year 2020 will be remembered as a very significant and transformative period in our history,” stated David Bailey, founder of Arrabon, a nonprofit organization based in Richmond, Virginia that assists churches nationwide in promoting racial reconciliation. “People's perspectives have shifted to some extent. The full implications of this are not yet fully understood." However, even Democratic leaders, such as local mayors and President Joe Biden, have expressed concern over police violence while also cautioning protesters to avoid violence themselves. This connection between Black political anger and violence is deeply ingrained in American society and has not been dismantled in the past year, according to Davin Phoenix, a political scientist at the University of California, Irvine. Phoenix believes that Black individuals are often told by their elected officials to refrain from certain actions before they have had a chance to process their emotions. He suggests that politicians should also hold police accountable by telling them what not to do. The protests following George Floyd's death became a part of the contentious political discourse in America, with most protests being peaceful but some instances of looting and property damage. These negative events were widely publicized on television and social media. Republicans pointed to the protests as a sign of the left losing control. Blue Lives Matter flags were displayed on houses last autumn. When support for Trump led to violence at the US Capitol on January 6, conservatives criticized what they saw as a double standard in the treatment of the two movements. In January, Biden assumed office and promised to prioritize racial equity in all aspects of his agenda, from vaccine distribution to infrastructure projects and climate policies. He promptly implemented changes typical of a Democratic administration, such as reinstating police consent decrees and fair housing regulations. However, Biden's administration has taken a unique approach by acknowledging the importance of Black voters in his election and addressing racism as a threat to public health. There are concerns about whether white liberals will make significant changes in their behaviors, such as supporting segregated schools and neighborhoods, that perpetuate racial inequality. While awareness of racial issues has increased following Floyd's death, the pandemic has worsened inequality, with Black families and workers disproportionately affected. White students have benefited from remote education, and white homeowners have seen gains in a booming housing market. A study found that even racially sympathetic white Americans are more likely to take limited, individual actions rather than making systemic changes to address racism. Historians emphasize the significant impact of Floyd's death on public discourse, particularly in highlighting the systemic racism embedded in both public and private institutions. Black business leaders have shared their personal experiences with racism, criticizing Corporate America for its lack of action. This event sparked global protests against racism, with even White Americans becoming more aware of structural racism and driving books on the topic to bestseller lists. Robin DG Kelley, a protest movements historian at the University of California, Los Angeles, noted that the recent protests against police violence were more racially diverse than previous ones. The movement also successfully pushed the idea of defunding the police into the mainstream, with more people advocating for a complete overhaul of the system. Organizers focused on translating the energy of the protests into political power through voter registrations, making racial justice a significant campaign issue by the fall. Democratic candidates in their campaigns have focused on addressing racial disparities by advocating for police reform, dismantling cash bail systems, and creating civilian review boards. The death of George Floyd has sparked a new energy for change in American history, with a multiracial response never seen before. However, it is important to remember that the focus should be on holding individuals like Chauvin accountable and making systemic changes. One significant policy outcome has been the passing of new police oversight and reform laws in over 30 states since Floyd's death, giving states more authority and challenging the power of police unions. The alterations involve limiting the use of force, revamping disciplinary processes, increasing civilian supervision, and mandating transparency in cases of misconduct. However, policing systems are intricate and deeply rooted, so it is uncertain how much impact the new legislation will have in practice. Bailey, a racial reconciliation advocate in Richmond, acknowledges that America has a long history of racism but believes there has been progress in recent years. He notes that addressing a 350-year-old problem will take time, as the country is still in the early stages of correction. | 2 |
Biden placed his hand on a thick Bible that had been in his family for 128 years as he recited the oath of office, pledging to protect the Constitution in a ceremony led by Chief Justice John Roberts. The transfer of power was completed at 11:49 a.m., just 11 minutes before the official change of presidency. Vice President Kamala Harris was sworn in shortly after by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, using a Bible that belonged to Thurgood Marshall. Harris's inauguration marked her as the highest-ranking woman in US history, as well as the first Black American and person of South Asian descent to hold the position. In his Inaugural Address, Biden stated that democracy had prevailed despite challenges from former President Donald Trump, who had attempted to overturn the election results and incited a Capitol riot. He called for unity among Americans to address issues such as the coronavirus pandemic, economic challenges, and racism. "We need to put an end to this lack of civility that pits red against blue, rural against urban, and conservative against liberal," Biden stated in his 21-minute address, which mixed grand themes with down-to-earth touches. He emphasized the importance of opening our hearts, being more tolerant and humble, and trying to see things from the perspective of others, even if just for a moment, as his mom used to say. Biden stressed the importance of unity, acknowledging that it may seem like an unrealistic goal but pointing out that Americans have overcome divisions in the past and can do so again. He called for an end to the shouting and a decrease in the overall tension in the country. Unity is essential for peace, progress, and stability. The recent ceremony marked the end of Trump's presidency, which was marked by controversy and division. Trump, true to form, left Washington before his successor's inauguration, showing his refusal to accept defeat. President Joe Biden was sworn in by Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. 11 minutes before the authority of the presidency formally changed hands. The Senate will soon open the former president's impeachment trial for inciting an insurrection. The presence of the new president and vice president at the Capitol, recently attacked by a pro-Trump mob, highlighted the surreal nature of the day. In contrast to typical inaugural celebrations filled with happiness and a sense of new beginnings, the events on the 59th Inauguration Day in the United States highlighted the country's challenges. Amid concerns of potential violence, Washington D.C. has been heavily fortified, with 25,000 National Guard troops and numerous police officers stationed throughout the city and a large portion of downtown closed off. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Americans were advised to stay home, resulting in a surreal scene of the new president addressing a sparsely populated National Mall adorned with flags instead of people. Reuters reported that many traditional inauguration activities were canceled due to the pandemic, such as a lunch with congressional leaders, a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, and evening balls. Instead, President Biden will review military units at the Capitol, be escorted to the White House by marching bands, and participate in a virtual "Parade Across America" featuring performances from all states and territories. To emphasize national unity, Biden will be joined by former Presidents Obama, Bush, and Clinton to lay a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery. The new first and second couples will also take part in a televised evening program hosted by Tom Hanks. If the grandeur and formality of the occasion were limited by the difficulties of the day, President Biden's determination to quickly undo the policies of the Trump administration was not. He intended to sign a total of 17 executive orders, memorandums, and proclamations later in the day, all aimed at reversing key aspects of the previous administration's agenda. This marked a significant departure from his predecessor and represented a more extensive set of actions on Inauguration Day than seen in recent history. Some of the measures included implementing a national mask mandate for federal workers and property, extending protections for evictions and student loans, rejoining the Paris climate accord, halting construction of the border wall, lifting travel restrictions on certain Muslim-majority countries, strengthening protections for young immigrants, prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity within the federal government, and placing a temporary halt on oil and gas leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris took part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on January 20, 2021. Rarely in history has a new president taken such swift action to undo the policies of his predecessor on his first day in office, but Biden aimed to show a clear departure from Trump. Some of the executive orders may have been more symbolic than impactful, and real change will still need to come from new legislation. Biden is set to present an immigration reform plan on Wednesday that includes a path to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants, which will need approval from Congress in what is expected to be a heated debate. Biden stated, "Democracy has prevailed" in his Inaugural Address. "Democracy has triumphed." President Joe Biden's Inaugural Address can be viewed at https://t.co/EPzTya587f pic.twitter.com/BotK2BwfBN. The Senate may face challenges in confirming Biden's Cabinet choices due to Trump's trial potentially taking up considerable time. This contrasts with previous presidents, as Trump had two Cabinet secretaries confirmed on his Inauguration Day, while Obama and Bush had seven each. With Harris being inaugurated, the Senate, which was evenly split between 50 Democrats and 50 Republicans, now shifts to the Democrats due to her tiebreaking vote as the chamber's president. Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York is now the Democratic majority leader and plans to have two separate tracks to consider both nominations and legislation while also conducting the Trump trial. Biden wanted his Inaugural Address to have a different tone from his predecessor, who focused on provocation rather than conciliation. Biden started working on his speech before Thanksgiving with the help of his longtime adviser, Mike Donilon, historian Jon Meacham, speechwriter Vinay Reddy, and his sister, Valerie Biden Owens, who has been a key advisor for him. Flags were displayed to symbolize individuals who could not be present at Joe Biden's presidential inauguration on the National Mall in Washington on January 20, 2021. Despite his call for unity, Biden used his speech to address racism following the George Floyd killing and the Capitol siege. Without mentioning Trump directly, he emphasized the importance of truth and the consequences of lies after four years of false statements. Biden's inauguration marked a stark contrast to the previous president in terms of age, gender, and race. Biden, a veteran senator and former vice president with deep ties to Washington, emphasizes his ability to work with both parties and is looking to build relationships with Republican leaders like Sen. Mitch McConnell. Known for his talkative nature, warm smile, and occasional missteps, Biden follows a style of politics that combines empathy with personal connections. At 78, he is the oldest president in U.S. history, leading some to question his ability to lead effectively. Despite this, Biden's determination and flexibility have helped him overcome obstacles and secure the presidency after decades of political experience. While he holds strong center-left beliefs, he is not rigidly ideological and is willing to adapt to the shifting political landscape. The more progressive faction of his party is still doubtful, and he may struggle to maintain his electoral coalition, which was mainly united by their dislike for Trump. Biden enters power with strong public support, as 57% of Americans view him favorably and 68% approve of his transition efforts. However, a majority of the public thinks the country is headed in the wrong direction, and 32% do not believe Biden won the election fairly due to Trump's false claims. Biden and Harris bring increased diversity to the highest levels of government. Biden is just the second Catholic president, following John F. Kennedy, and Harris has made history by breaking multiple gender and racial barriers to become vice president. Biden's Cabinet includes record numbers of women and people of color, as well as the first openly gay person to lead a statutory Cabinet department. On the day of the inauguration, a member of the National Guard used his smartphone to capture the scene at the US Capitol. Biden began his day at Blair House, the presidential guest quarters, before attending a service at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle with his wife, Jill Biden, Harris, and her husband, Doug Emhoff, along with congressional leaders from both parties, including McConnell. During the inauguration of President Joe Biden on January 20, 2021, a National Guard member used his smartphone to film the scene at the US Capitol. This deviated from tradition, as most new presidents typically attend a worship service at St. John's Church before taking the oath. However, St. Matthew's Church also has a presidential history, having hosted Kennedy's funeral. Among the attendees at the swearing-in ceremony were three former presidents and their wives, as well as former Vice President Dan Quayle. In addition to Justices Roberts and Sotomayor, four other Supreme Court members were present, including Justice Elena Kagan and Justices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett, who were appointed by Trump. Pence and his wife, Karen Pence, were warmly welcomed at the Capitol for their display of respect during the transition of power, despite Trump's refusal to acknowledge them. This was Pence's first visit since he was hurried out of the Senate chamber to avoid the pro-Trump mob who were calling for his hanging. Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, and Garth Brooks performed at the ceremony, with other stars such as Kerry Washington, Bruce Springsteen, and Demi Lovato slated to join Tom Hanks for the evening performance titled "Celebrating America." Celebrity festivities will bookend the more serious business of the day. Biden will sign his orders and memorandums in the Oval Office at 5:15 p.m., followed by a virtual swearing-in of his staff half an hour later. At 7 p.m., Jen Psaki, the new White House press secretary, will hold her first daily briefing, providing reporters with a regular opportunity to question the White House, a practice that had dwindled under Trump. The Bidens will then spend their first night in the White House, completing a journey that began officially in 1987 and unofficially much earlier. These were not the circumstances the new president had anticipated when he began this journey to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, but history always has its surprises. | 2 |
Rio de Janeiro's successful bid to host the Olympics in 2016 represents Brazil's impressive transformation from a struggling nation to a powerful player on the global stage. Just as China's hosting of the 2008 Olympics signaled its resurgence as a major world power, Rio 2016 is seen as a validation of Brazil's maturity and success. Despite past underachievement, Brazil has capitalized on its natural resources, democratic system, and large consumer base to become a prominent player in Latin America. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's leadership has been key in driving Brazil's economic boom, lifting millions out of poverty and solidifying his popularity on the global stage. Despite challenges such as the global economic crisis, Brazil has managed to bounce back and continue its growth trajectory. Lula told the International Olympic Committee that Brazil was the last to be hit by the financial crisis but was the first to recover from it. The country no longer feels inferior and is determined to fulfill its potential. Brazil's history of unfulfilled promise was highlighted by the saying "Brazil is the country of the future - and always will be." This was especially true during the military dictatorship and economic crises of the 1960s-1990s. Brazil was still struggling in 2002 when Lula was running for president and there were fears it would follow the path of crisis-hit Argentina. Since then, Brazil has experienced years of strong economic growth and President Lula's charismatic personality has helped elevate the country's status on the world stage. In 2006, Brazil successfully paid off its IMF loans ahead of schedule and recently pledged to lend $10 billion to the organization. The country has also received three investment-grade ratings in the past 18 months and has become a key player in global diplomatic discussions, including world trade and climate change negotiations. Brazilian companies like Petrobras and Vale have thrived, expanding Brazilian investments and influence in Latin America and beyond. In the aftermath of the financial crisis, Brazil has been advocating for greater representation for developing nations in international decision-making, bringing attention to groups like the G20 and BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China). Lula advocated for South America's first Olympics by emphasizing that rich countries have historically dominated the Games. Brazil's economic resurgence has lifted about 20 million people out of poverty, largely due to Lula's welfare programs. In addition to this, Brazil has benefited from favorable circumstances such as the commodities price boom and the discovery of a major oil reserve off Rio's coast in 2007, which the government hopes will propel the country to developed-nation status. Despite these successes, Brazil still faces numerous obstacles on its path to joining the ranks of developed nations. The education system in Brazil is not adequately funded, leading to a lack of top-tier universities and concerns among business leaders about a shortage of skilled workers. The country's deteriorating infrastructure is also hindering its economic growth. Racism continues to be a major obstacle for black and indigenous individuals seeking education and employment opportunities. Despite economic advancements, Brazil remains highly unequal, with widespread poverty, crime, and illiteracy in regions such as the northeast and the Amazon rainforest. | 2 |
The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, which previously refused to reduce supply to maintain market share against more expensive competitors, has increased its global supply forecasts for tight oil, including shale, in its 2015 World Oil Outlook despite a significant drop in prices. OPEC predicts that demand for its crude will be 30.70 million barrels per day in 2020, slightly lower than the expected 30.90 million barrels per day next year. This anticipated demand in 2020 is approximately 1 million barrels per day less than OPEC is currently producing. Oil prices have fallen by more than half in the past 18 months, reaching an 11-year low of $36.04 per barrel this week. While this drop has led to increased medium-term oil consumption, OPEC believes that the demand boost from low crude prices will diminish over time. OPEC Secretary-General Abdullah al-Badri stated in the report that the recent oil price decline has had a significant impact on demand, particularly in the short term, but this impact lessens over time. OPEC is facing internal divisions regarding the market-share strategy implemented in 2014, and at a meeting on Dec 4, they failed to set a production ceiling for the first time in many years. Despite this, the report indicates a more positive medium-term outlook for OPEC as the supplier of a third of the world's oil. In the 2014 edition of the report, it was projected that demand for OPEC crude would decrease to 29.0 million bpd by 2020. OPEC has stopped working on the report in the middle of the year and has updated its forecast for 2016 non-OPEC supply to a decline. The report does not include Indonesia, which rejoined in December. The main figures in the report that show OPEC's medium-term market share is under pressure remain the same as a confidential report obtained by Reuters in November. OPEC initially underestimated the impact of shale oil but acknowledged in its 2012 annual outlook that it could have a significant effect. Years of high prices, supported by OPEC's previous policy of cutting supply, have made non-conventional oil like shale economically viable. OPEC's latest report indicates a shift in perspective, stating that many projects can be profitable at lower oil prices. The report predicts that global tight oil output will increase to 5.19 million bpd by 2020, peak at 5.61 million bpd in 2030, and then decrease to 5.18 million bpd in 2040. Argentina and Russia are expected to become major producers alongside North America. In a more optimistic scenario, tight oil production could expand to Mexico and China, potentially reaching almost 8 million bpd by 2040. In 2013, OPEC believed that tight oil would only affect North America. The report suggests that OPEC's market share will increase over time as other sources of supply decline. OPEC predicts that by 2040, their crude demand will be 40.70 million bpd, making up 37 percent of global supply, up from 33 percent in 2015. OPEC has raised its forecast for world oil demand in the medium term, estimating it to reach 97.40 million bpd by 2020, 500,000 bpd more than in the previous year's report. However, factors such as slower economic growth, the small portion of crude costs in pump prices, and the depreciation of some currencies against the dollar will limit the response to lower crude prices, according to OPEC. OPEC predicts that by 2040, demand will reach 109.80 million bpd, which is 1.3 million bpd lower than the previous year due to energy efficiency and climate-change mitigation efforts. The report also suggests a gradual increase in oil prices, with OPEC's basket of crude oils starting at $55 in 2015 and rising by $5 annually to reach $80 by 2020. | 2 |
The Supreme Court announced that the cause of death for Ginsburg was complications of metastatic pancreatic cancer. Despite battling various health issues over the years, including colon cancer in 1999, early-stage pancreatic cancer in 2009, and a blocked artery in 2014, Ginsburg maintained a tough demeanor. Despite her small stature and frail appearance, she was known for her dedication to regular workouts with a trainer, who even published a book about their challenging exercise routine. As Ginsburg turned 80 years old and celebrated her 20th year on the Supreme Court bench during President Barack Obama's second term, she ignored numerous calls for her retirement to allow a Democratic president to choose her successor. She intended to remain in her position for as long as she could perform her duties effectively, expressing optimism about the future leadership of the country. Being the only woman on the Supreme Court after Justice Sandra Day O'Connor retired in 2006 was a challenging period for Ginsburg, who had worked to advance the legal standing of women throughout her career. The addition of two more female justices, Sonia Sotomayor in 2009 and Elena Kagan in 2010, helped to improve the representation of women on the Court. Following the retirement of Justice John Paul Stevens in 2010, Ruth Bader Ginsburg became the senior member and de facto leader of a liberal bloc on the Supreme Court, consisting of herself, two other female justices, and Justice Stephen Breyer. Without a fifth vote, often provided by Justice Anthony Kennedy before his retirement in 2018, the four justices were frequently in dissent on the ideologically divided court. Ginsburg's dissenting opinions, which often spoke for the group, gained attention as the court moved further to the right. A law student named Shana Knizhnik famously dubbed her the Notorious RBG, in reference to the rapper Notorious BIG, who was also from Brooklyn like Ginsburg. Ruth Bader Ginsburg's name and image, featuring her serene yet severe expression, frilly lace collar, oversize glasses, and gold crown, quickly became popular on the internet. This occurred during her Supreme Court confirmation hearings in Washington on July 21, 1993. Young women got tattoos of her image, daughters dressed as RBG for Halloween, and merchandise with slogans like "You Can't Spell Truth Without Ruth" became popular. Biographies about her, such as "Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg" by Irin Carmon and Knizhnik, became bestsellers. A documentary and a Hollywood biopic were also successful in showcasing her life and accomplishments. The admiration for Ruth Bader Ginsburg increased significantly following the election of Donald Trump, especially after she called him "a faker" during the 2016 presidential campaign. Despite later admitting that her comment was "ill advised," Ginsburg became a symbol of hope for many women seeking models of female influence, authenticity, dignity, and voice. Back in 1993, when President Bill Clinton nominated her for the Supreme Court, some feminist leaders were concerned about her close relationships with conservative colleagues. However, her Senate confirmation in a landslide vote marked the end of a long period without Democratic appointments to the Court. There was a certain appropriateness in that series of events, as Ruth Ginsburg was sometimes likened to the Thurgood Marshall of the women's rights movement due to her strategic approach and selection of cases as she worked to convince the all-male Supreme Court to recognize the constitutional prohibition against sex discrimination in the 1970s. Just as Thurgood Marshall had been the chief legal strategist in the fight against racial segregation, Ginsburg had argued cases that became important legal precedents before taking her place on the Supreme Court in 1993. She brought six cases to the court between 1973 and 1978 and won five of them. Her aim was to convince the Supreme Court that the 14th Amendment's guarantee of equal protection should apply to sex discrimination in addition to racial discrimination. This was a difficult task, as the Supreme Court under Chief Justice Earl Warren had never recognized sex discrimination as a constitutional issue. The Supreme Court under Chief Justice Warren Burger, appointed by President Richard Nixon in 1969, was not expected to be any more welcoming. Ruth Bader Ginsburg presided over a mock trial of Shylock following a performance of "The Merchant of Venice" in Venice, Italy on July 27, 2016. Ginsburg believed she needed to educate an audience that didn't understand rather than oppose her, focusing on laws that were meant to protect women but were based on stereotypes of male and female abilities. In a 1988 speech, she highlighted how male justices didn't see the differential treatment of men and women in legal contexts as burdensome to women, as they likely treated their own wives and daughters well. In order to change course, the court needed to realize that laws meant to support or protect women could actually have negative consequences. This was demonstrated by successful legal challenges against discriminatory laws in Idaho, the military, and Social Security. These cases highlighted the unfair preference given to men over women in various situations, ultimately leading to changes in the law. One such case involved Stephen Wiesenfeld, a man who sought survivor benefits after his wife's death in childbirth so he could raise their child. Following her success in the Supreme Court case, Ginsburg maintained a relationship with the father and child involved. In 1998, she traveled to Florida to help officiate the wedding of the child, Jason. In 2014, Ginsburg presided over the second marriage of her former client at the Supreme Court, 42 years after the death of Paula Wiesenfeld. Although she did not argue the case personally, Ginsburg was involved in the 1976 case of Craig v. Boren, where the Supreme Court established that official distinctions based on sex would be subject to "heightened scrutiny" from the courts. This case involved striking down an Oklahoma law that allowed girls to buy beer at 18 while boys had to wait until they were 21. The specific question in Craig v. Boren may not have seemed significant, but the constitutional implications of the ruling were substantial. Even though the court did not initially adopt Ginsburg's "strict scrutiny" rule, they did eventually embrace the idea that the 14th Amendment guarantees equal protection for both sexes. In a 1996 case involving the Virginia Military Institute, Ginsburg announced the court's majority opinion declaring the all-male admissions policy unconstitutional. Virginia had argued that their method of educating young men was not suitable for women, but the court disagreed. In United States v. Virginia, Ginsburg stated that the state had not provided a sufficient justification for treating men and women differently. She emphasized that women deserving of a VMI-quality education should not be offered anything less in terms of equal protection under the law. Ginsburg clarified that while there are inherent differences between men and women, these should not be used to limit opportunities or perpetuate inequality. She believed her decision would improve VMI when she visited the institute in 2018. On June 26, 1996, Ginsburg spoke about a moment during her delivery of the opinion in the VMI case that had a deeper meaning, not easily noticeable to the audience in the courtroom. She recounted this moment in a speech the following year at the Women's Bar Association in Washington, DC. In this speech, she described how she had looked at her colleague, O'Connor, during the proceedings. O'Connor, who was the first woman on the Supreme Court, had previously written a majority opinion that influenced the VMI decision by challenging traditional gender roles. Ginsburg's opinion in the VMI case also referenced O'Connor's earlier opinion in the Mississippi University for Women v. Hogan case from 1982, showing how their legal precedents intertwined. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her colleagues Clarence Thomas, Antonin Scalia, Sandra Day O'Connor, and John Paul Stevens left the Supreme Court building to participate in the casket procession of Chief Justice William Rehnquist in Washington on September 6, 2005. The New York Times reported that O'Connor and Ginsburg, who were close in age with O'Connor being the elder, were part of the first group of women to break into the male-dominated legal profession. O'Connor faced difficulties finding work after graduating from Stanford Law School, while Ginsburg, one of only nine women in her Harvard Law School class, excelled academically and was recommended for a prestigious clerkship by one of her professors. The professor, Albert Sacks, who later became dean of the law school, wrote to Frankfurter, a former Harvard law professor, praising the exceptional composure and qualities of mind and person of the star student, suggesting she would be a great law clerk for him. Despite Justice Frankfurter never having hired a woman before, he declined to interview her. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her fellow justices Clarence Thomas, Antonin Scalia, Sandra Day O'Connor and John Paul Stevens left the Supreme Court building for the casket procession of Chief Justice William Rehnquist in Washington on Sept 6, 2005. Despite their differing views on important areas of the court's docket, such as affirmative action and federalism, and their different backgrounds - one the daughter of Southwestern ranchers and the other the Brooklyn-born daughter of Russian Jews - the common life experiences of the two women created a bond that appeared to strengthen over time. Ruth Bader's father, Nathan Bader, immigrated to New York with his family at the age of 13, while her mother, the former Celia Amster, was born shortly after her family's arrival. Ruth, originally named Joan Ruth and known as Kiki in her childhood, was born on March 15, 1933. She grew up in Brooklyn's Flatbush neighborhood as essentially an only child, as her older sister passed away from meningitis when Ruth was just 14 months old. The family owned small retail stores, such as a fur store and a hat shop, but money was always tight. Ruth's mother, Celia Bader, was intellectually ambitious and graduated from high school at 15, though she was unable to attend college. Instead, her family sent her to work in Manhattan's garment district so her brother could go to Cornell University. She had great hopes for her daughter, but unfortunately, she passed away before seeing them come to fruition. Diagnosed with cervical cancer when Ruth was a freshman in high school, she died at 47 in 1950, the day before her daughter's graduation. Ruth's teachers brought her awards and medals after the ceremony she could not attend. During her Supreme Court nomination announcement with Clinton in the Rose Garden on June 14, 1993, Ginsburg moved the president to tears with a touching tribute to her mother, expressing her desire to fulfill the dreams her mother had for her. Ruth Bader received a scholarship to attend Cornell University, where she met Martin Ginsburg during her freshman year. She was drawn to him because he was the first boy she had met who appreciated her intelligence. They became engaged during her junior year and got married after she graduated in 1954. Their relationship was characterized by both romance and intellectual partnership throughout their lives. Despite their differences in personalities - with her being reserved and thoughtful in her words, while he was lively and humorous - their strong bond and dedication to their family and careers as a team were evident to those who knew them. Martin Ginsburg supported his wife, a successful tax lawyer, by giving up his own lucrative law practice in New York to move to Washington with her in 1980 when she was appointed to the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit by President Jimmy Carter. Thirteen years later, he strongly advocated for her appointment to the Supreme Court behind the scenes. After moving to Washington, Martin Ginsburg taught tax law at Georgetown University’s law school. He held a position that was established by a grateful client, Ross Perot, in recognition of the tax advice that had saved him a significant amount of money. Additionally, he was a skilled chef who prepared meals for the family and baked treats for his wife to bring to her colleagues at the court. Ruth Ginsburg, on the other hand, admitted to being a poor cook and was banned from the kitchen by her children. The Ginsburgs resided in a duplex apartment at the Watergate, near the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where they frequently enjoyed the opera and ballet. After 56 years of marriage, he passed away from cancer in 2010 at the age of 78. Prior to his death, he left a handwritten note on a yellow pad for his wife to discover beside his bed. The note began with "My dearest Ruth," expressing his love and admiration for her throughout their lives, noting her impressive rise to the top of the legal world since they first met at Cornell. Their two children, Jane and James, are alive. Jane is a professor at Columbia Law School, while James produces classical music in Chicago. They also have four grandchildren. After getting married, they moved to Lawton, Oklahoma, where Martin Ginsburg, who had been in the ROTC during college, was going to serve as an Army officer at Fort Sill for two years. Ruth Ginsburg applied for a job at the Social Security office but was offered a position as a claims examiner at the Civil Service rank of GS-5. However, when she disclosed that she was pregnant with her first child, Jane, the offer was rescinded because a pregnant woman could not travel for training. She took on a clerk-typist position at the GS-2 level, a lowly rank, and initially accepted it as the norm. It wasn't until years later that Ruth Ginsburg would dedicate herself to challenging the societal norms that restricted women's opportunities. Early in their marriage, while both attending Harvard Law School, Ruth and Martin Ginsburg faced a serious challenge when Martin was diagnosed with testicular cancer during his third year. The prognosis was grim, and he struggled to attend classes due to his illness. Other classmates took notes for him, and Ruth Ginsburg, despite attending class and caring for their young daughter, transcribed the notes and assisted him with studying. He eventually recovered and graduated on schedule. The environment at Harvard Law School was difficult for women, especially during Ruth Ginsburg's time there. There were no female faculty members, and during her first year, the dean, Erwin Griswold, questioned the nine women in the class about why they believed they deserved to be there instead of a man. Ruth hesitated as she explained that she wanted to understand her husband's work as a lawyer, so she asked Harvard officials if she could finish her final year at Columbia and still receive a Harvard degree. Her request was denied, so she transferred to Columbia and graduated at the top of her class. In 1972, she became the first woman to receive tenure at Columbia Law School. Years later, Harvard changed its policy and would now award a Harvard degree to students in similar situations. Martin Ginsburg jokingly asked Ruth if she planned to exchange her Columbia degree for a Harvard degree. "She simply smiled." In 2011, Harvard University awarded Ruth Ginsburg an honorary degree alongside Plácido Domingo. The opera-loving Ginsburg described this experience as one of the greatest in her life. Following her graduation from Columbia, Ginsburg struggled to find job offers from New York law firms and instead clerked for federal district judge Edmund L Palmieri for two years. This opportunity came about after her mentor, Professor Gerald Gunther, intervened. After her clerkship, Ginsburg went back to Columbia to work on a project regarding civil procedure. The project necessitated that she acquire Swedish language skills and reside in Sweden for a period of time. This experience was influential for her. Sweden was experiencing a strong wave of feminism, with women seamlessly balancing work and family responsibilities. Childcare services were easily accessible. Ruth Ginsburg was intrigued by an article written by the editor of a feminist publication. Eva Moberg, the editor, expressed the need to move away from the idea of women having two roles and emphasized that both men and women share the primary role of being human beings. Ruth Ginsburg's significant academic work on Swedish civil law from 1963 to 1970, as well as her observations of a different societal structure during her time in Sweden, had a profound impact on her. Despite facing rejection from prestigious law schools, she eventually became the second woman to teach at Rutgers Law School, where there were only a few women teaching in all American law schools at the time. During this time, her second child, James, who was nine years younger than his sister, was born. Along with her teaching job, she began volunteering to handle discrimination cases for the New Jersey chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union. These cases included complaints from public-school teachers who were fired due to pregnancy. Melvin Wulf, a childhood friend who was the national legal director for the ACLU, learned about her work and started referring more cases to her. One of these cases was the Idaho estate administrators case, which later became her first Supreme Court victory in Reed v. Reed. Her 88-page brief in that case, detailing how the legal system reinforced the oppression of women in society, became known as the "grandmother brief" and was a resource for feminist lawyers for many years. In 1972, the ACLU established a Women’s Rights Project and selected Ruth Ginsburg as its inaugural director. Concurrently, she transitioned from Rutgers to Columbia University for teaching. While leading the ACLU project, she developed a Supreme Court litigation plan to convince the justices that gender-based discrimination by the government was a violation of the Constitution. The significance of this approach was not immediately obvious, even to those closely observing her work. Ruth Ginsburg was notably focusing on cases where men were the victims of unequal treatment by the government. She wanted to challenge the notion that men should be treated less generously than women just because of their gender. Ruth Ginsburg aimed to liberate both men and women from societal expectations and use the Constitution to dismantle the structures that enforced separate gender roles. By presenting a widowed father seeking social welfare to care for his child as a plaintiff, she hoped to show the court that childcare should not be limited to women based on gender. Wendy W Williams, a retired professor of law at Georgetown University Law Centre and Ginsburg’s authorized biographer, explained in a 2013 article that Ginsburg's legal efforts were successful in challenging the legal system that reinforced traditional gender roles. Williams pointed out that Ginsburg recognized the deep-rooted belief of male and female as natural opposites in law and society, and knew that this could not be easily changed. Ginsburg believed that both men and women suffered from sex discrimination, and she aimed to achieve sex equality for all. Professor Neil S Siegel of Duke Law School described Ginsburg's vision as one of equal citizenship status. Despite her reputation as a liberal, Ginsburg was known for forming alliances with conservative judges on the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. She believed in judicial restraint and collaboration with other branches of government, rather than imposing final decisions without room for debate. This approach also led her to criticize the Supreme Court's decision in Roe v. Wade, which established the right to abortion. During a speech at New York University Law School in 1993, shortly before her Supreme Court nomination, she criticized the ruling for stopping a reform-minded political process and causing prolonged division and delayed resolution of the issue. Despite expressing her support for abortion rights, she suggested that the court should have issued a more limited ruling, allowing states to regulate abortions without banning them entirely. She warned that the court should avoid making drastic decisions that could provoke a strong backlash. Contrary to Ginsburg's beliefs, evidence showed that progress towards revising or repealing old abortion laws had stalled due to lobbying from the Catholic Church. The backlash against the decision was not spontaneous, but rather orchestrated by Republican strategists seeking support from Catholic voters. Despite questions about the accuracy of her narrative, Ginsburg continued to criticize the decision. Her speech at NYU caused concern among some women's groups and abortion rights organizations, leading to quiet lobbying against her when White announced his retirement from the court. In his first nomination to the court, Clinton conducted a highly public search for potential candidates, including Mario Cuomo and Bruce Babbitt. It seemed he had chosen Stephen G. Breyer, but after a poor interview due to Breyer's broken ribs, Clinton's opinion changed. Martin Ginsburg urged Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan to advocate for Ruth Ginsburg, despite Clinton's initial reluctance. After a private meeting with Ruth Ginsburg, Clinton ultimately decided to nominate her. He phoned her at 11:33 that evening to inform her that she was his selection. The next day at the announcement ceremony, Clinton stated, "I believe that in the years to come she will be able to promote consensus-building on the Supreme Court, just as she has on the Court of Appeals." The nomination was widely popular with the public, and she was confirmed on Aug. 3, 1993, despite the opposing votes of three conservative Republicans in the Senate. When speaking to the Senate Judiciary Committee, Ginsburg emphasized that her judicial approach was not strictly liberal or conservative. She made it clear that she fully supported the right to abortion, despite her criticisms of Roe v. Wade, calling it a fundamental aspect of a woman's life and dignity. It is a decision that she must make for herself. When the government controls that decision for her, she is being treated as less than a fully adult human responsible for her own choices. In a dissenting opinion in Gonzales v Carhart, Ruth Bader Ginsburg criticized the majority's reasoning for upholding a federal law criminalizing a particular abortion procedure during the second trimester. She argued that the majority's rationale relied on an unsubstantiated belief that women regret their abortions, reflecting outdated ideas about women's role in society and the Constitution. The court's decision in the case of Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co, where Lilly Ledbetter's pay discrimination claim was rejected due to not being filed within the 180-day deadline, led to another strong dissent. Justice Alito's majority opinion stated that the 180-day clock started when Ledbetter received her first paycheck reflecting the pay discrepancy. However, Justice Ginsburg disagreed, arguing that the 180-day period should begin when the employee becomes aware of the discrimination. She urged Congress to clarify this issue, emphasizing that it was their responsibility to do so. Ginsburg's direct call to Congress was notable as she announced her dissent from the bench, drawing attention to the importance of the issue. The disagreement over a statute of limitations turned into a public outcry and ultimately led Congress to overturn the court's narrow interpretation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act was the first bill signed into law by President Obama on Jan. 29, 2009, in response to Justice Ginsburg's efforts. Professor Lani Guinier of Harvard Law School observed that Ginsburg was appealing to the public in her actions. Guinier characterized oral dissent as a way to make judicial speech more accessible to the public. Ginsburg, known for her meticulous approach to crafting opinions, paid equal attention to majority opinions and dissents. Her writing style was clear and free of unnecessary complexity, influenced in part by studying literature with Nabokov. However, it was her dissenting opinions, often announced in court, that garnered the most recognition. To signal her dissent, she would switch the decorative collars she wore with her robe on those days. She even wore her "dissenting collar," described by one observer as resembling medieval armor, the day after Trump's election. One of her most well-known dissents occurred in 2013 in Shelby County v. Holder, where the majority invalidated a provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, requiring certain jurisdictions to receive federal permission before changing voting procedures. Ginsburg questioned the court's usual restraint and referenced conservative calls for judicial restraint. She concluded by quoting a civil rights leader, expressing disappointment in the decision. One of her favorite majority opinions, out of roughly 200, was in a 1996 case called MLB v. SLJ, dealing with the right of a parent to appeal a court decree terminating parental rights. The Supreme Court of Mississippi decided that the state was not required to pay for the necessary record for an appeal to proceed. The Constitution does not typically grant affirmative rights, but Justice Ginsburg based her decision on protecting parental rights as fundamental, despite previous Supreme Court precedents. Professor Martha Minow praised Ginsburg's opinion in the case MLB v SLJ as extraordinary. In a 2017 decision, the court addressed the unequal treatment of unwed mothers and fathers seeking to transmit American citizenship to their children born overseas under federal immigration law. According to the law, mothers could pass on their American citizenship if they had lived in the United States for at least one year, while fathers had to have lived in the US for five years. The law was based on the assumption that mothers were more readily identifiable as parents compared to fathers, who were less likely to take responsibility for their children born out of wedlock. In Sessions v. Morales-Santana, Ginsburg, writing for a 6-2 majority, declared the law unconstitutional for violating equal protection. She criticized the sex-based distinction as outdated and reflective of outdated stereotypes about men and women. Ginsburg highlighted the impact of such generalizations on people's lives and emphasized the need to challenge them. She attributed the success of her 1970s litigation campaign to being in the right place with the right arguments at the right time. In the preface to her book "My Own Words," published in 2016, she expressed gratitude for being alive and working as a lawyer during a time when advocating for gender equality became a successful endeavor in the United States. Despite acknowledging her significant role in this movement, she also recognized the broader societal shifts that influenced judges to recognize the importance of equal citizenship for women and men. In a 1997 article, she reflected on the factors that led to the courts' evolving understanding of gender equality, pointing to the influence of public discourse and personal experiences within the judiciary. Ginsburg was known for her meticulous approach to both her appearance and her legal work. She had her dark hair pulled back and preferred finely tailored suits by designer Giorgio Armani, occasionally adding flamboyantly patterned jackets from her travels. Despite being recognized as one of the best-dressed women, she was a quiet presence in social situations, often letting her outgoing husband do the talking. While she may have come across as shy and withdrawn to those who didn't know her well, she would light up when discussing her passion for opera. It was hard to believe that she was once a high school cheerleader and twirler, as she moved with such precision and purpose. There was not a clear distinction between the two sides of her personality, rather her natural shyness disappeared when she had a task to complete. Before her first Supreme Court argument, she was extremely nervous and couldn't eat lunch for fear of getting sick. However, once the argument began, her fear disappeared as she felt empowered by the attention of the powerful judges. | 2 |
The journalists from Ukraine were recognized with a special citation for their reporting on the Russian invasion, during the annual Pulitzer awards ceremony. The Pulitzer board also honored the 12 journalists who lost their lives while covering the Ukraine war. The Pulitzers are considered the most prestigious awards in American journalism, with a particular focus on the public service award. This year, the Washington Post received the public service award for their coverage of the siege of the US Capitol by supporters of former President Donald Trump, which resulted in the official election of Joe Biden as president. Marjorie Miller, the Pulitzer Prize Administrator, stated that the Washington Post won for their detailed and compelling account of the events of January 6, 2021, providing the public with a comprehensive understanding of one of the darkest days in the nation's history. In addition, a team of photographers from Getty Images received a Pulitzer for their breaking news photography of the events on that day. A team of Reuters photographers, including Danish Siddiqui who tragically died in Afghanistan last July, won the Pulitzer Prize for feature photography for their coverage of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic in India. Reuters was also recognized as a finalist for their images of climate change globally. The images from India were praised for their ability to show both the personal and devastating aspects of COVID's impact. In addition to Siddiqui, the honored photographers were Adnan Abidi, Sanna Irshad Mattoo, and Amit Dave. The Editor-in-Chief of Reuters, Alessandra Galloni, stated that the world was made more aware of the severity of India's outbreak through the documentation of the photographers. Siddiqui's exceptional work was acknowledged as a tribute to his lasting influence on photojournalism. Siddiqui was part of the Reuters team that previously won the Pulitzer Prize in 2018 for their coverage of the Rohingya refugee crisis. Reuters, a unit of Thomson Reuters, won its 10th Pulitzer Prize, the seventh in the last five years. The New York Times has now won a total of 135 Pulitzer Prizes since they were first awarded in 1917. This year, the Times won three Pulitzers for national reporting on police traffic stops, international reporting on the failures of the US air war in the Middle East, and criticism for writing on race in arts and culture. The Times was also named a finalist in international reporting twice more for coverage on Afghanistan and Haiti's president assassination. Andrea Elliott, a reporter for the New York Times, won a Pulitzer Prize in the general nonfiction category for her book "Invisible Child: Poverty, Survival and Hope in an American City," based on a series published by the newspaper in 2013. The Pulitzer board acknowledged the difficult and perilous conditions for journalists globally, citing instances such as 12 journalists killed while covering the Ukraine war, the murders of eight Mexican journalists this year, and incidents of assault and intimidation against journalists in Afghanistan and Myanmar. The special recognition for Ukrainian journalists praised their bravery, resilience, and dedication to reporting the truth during Vladimir Putin's aggressive invasion of their country and his propaganda campaign in Russia. The Pulitzer Prizes, established in 1917 by newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer's will, now encompass 15 categories in media reporting, writing, and photography, as well as seven awards in books, drama, and music. A group of predominantly senior editors from prominent US media outlets and academics oversees the judging process that selects the winners. | 2 |
As they get ready to greet President Joe Biden, the fact that he sees Europe as a partner and NATO as crucial to Western security is seen as a significant development. However, the impact of the previous administration has left lasting wounds that experts believe will take time to heal. Rosa Balfour, director of Carnegie Europe, warns against underestimating the Trump era's effect on the European Union, as there are concerns about a potential return of Trump and the EU being left out in the cold once again. This has led to the EU being more cautious in accepting US demands. Various important topics, such as the Afghanistan withdrawal, military spending, relations with Russia and China, trade conflicts, climate issues, and vaccine diplomacy, are on the agenda for discussion. The Europeans admire Biden's promises of loyalty and affection, but they have seen how quickly US foreign policy can change with a new president. They worry that this could happen again, with America shifting towards more populist, nationalist leaders after Biden. They are uncertain about the costs of Biden's policies and how they differ from Trump's "America first" approach. With upcoming elections in Germany, France, and the US, Biden's ability to make significant changes may be limited. However, his upcoming visits to NATO and the EU will carry more significance than just symbolic gestures. The meetings are scheduled in a way that allows him to arrive in Geneva on June 16 with support and consultation from allies for his first meeting as president with Russia's president, Vladimir Putin. Jana Puglierin, Berlin director of the European Council on Foreign Relations, believes that Biden is starting a new relationship and expressing trust in Brussels and NATO in order to strengthen the alliance for the next decade. She also emphasizes the need for tangible results to show benefits from the partnership. François Heisbourg, a French defense analyst, views Biden's trip positively, stating that there is no cynicism and that the US is back with Biden's return. "Biden, with his strong views, is committed to implementing them, with a focus on reestablishing friendships and civility with allies. Although international affairs are not his top priority, he aims to show the importance of alliances and partnerships through actions rather than just words. However, the lack of ambassadors to key positions such as NATO and the EU is noted by experts, who stress the need for immediate communication with top officials in case of emergencies." The NATO summit meeting involving 30 leaders will be brief, consisting of a 2 1/2-hour session following an opening ceremony. This will allow for just five minutes for each leader to speak. The leaders will reach an agreement on a communique currently being negotiated, address the Afghanistan withdrawal, and approve a yearlong study on updating NATO's strategic concept to address new challenges such as cyberwarfare, artificial intelligence, antimissile defense, disinformation, and other emerging technologies. The previous revision of the strategic concept in 2010 focused on Russia as a potential partner, with minimal mention of China. The new revision will start with different assumptions. NATO officials and ambassadors anticipate future discussions on topics such as countering China within a regional trans-Atlantic alliance, determining necessary capabilities for NATO, and deciding how much funding should be provided by member countries. Finding ways to adjust to the EU's ambiguous desire for "strategic autonomy" while promoting European military spending and efficiency, and preventing overlap with NATO is a pressing issue. Additionally, there is a need to enhance NATO's political acumen, as emphasized by French President Emmanuel Macron, which could involve organizing new meetings among member states' key officials such as national security advisers and political directors. In a more discreet manner, leaders will begin discussing potential replacements for NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, whose term was extended by two years to maintain stability during the Trump administration and is set to conclude in September 2022. The upcoming NATO summit will also address crucial matters such as managing Afghanistan post-withdrawal, navigating relations with Putin's Russia, Xi Jinping's China, and Aleksandr Lukashenko's Belarus. The ambassador of a NATO country stated that those interested in punctual trains will find the NATO summit interesting, while those interested in train collisions will be disappointed. A similar situation is expected at Biden's June 15 meeting with the European Union, where he will meet with Charles Michel of the European Council and Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission. Biden will have already met with 21 of the 27 EU leaders at the NATO summit the previous day. Turkey, a member of NATO, presents challenges in balancing relationships with Russia and hostility towards Greece. Cyprus, an EU member, hinders coordination with NATO due to its animosity towards Turkey. The bloc faces various issues such as trade disputes, enforcing a global minimum corporate tax rate, data transfer, military spending, transitioning to a carbon-neutral economy, regulating technology giants, reforming multilateral institutions, and addressing the threats posed by China and Russia. There is also concern about the possibility of another president like Trump succeeding Biden, as seen in the unilateral decision to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan by September 11. In the same way, European leaders were upset and ashamed of Biden's choice to back the waiver of intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines. This decision, made in response to increasing criticism at home, was made without any prior notice to allies or consultation. Europeans do not view China in the same way as the United States does and are more reliant on both China and Russia for trade and energy. Some are concerned that Biden's attempt to frame the world as a contest between democracy and authoritarianism is overly simplistic. Nathalie Tocci, director of Italy's International Affairs Institute, emphasized the importance of consulting with allies before the Putin summit, stating that it is more than just a symbolic gesture. Europeans are fooling themselves if they believe that things can return to how they used to be. It is important for Europeans to collaborate with Biden on important issues like climate, vaccines, and trade in order to establish a Western consensus that can lead to a wider global agreement. This, she argues, is the most effective way to demonstrate the benefits of democracy. | 2 |
It is an example of the type of compromise that has been made by employees of the Kremlin's propaganda machine for a long time - individuals who appreciated the stable employment and creative challenges, even if they did not agree with the goals of their workplace. Likin, who had been the art director for Channel 1, the Russian state television network, for many years, finally resigned this month after President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine. He stated that he was not a politician, but the invasion forced him to be part of a campaign with a deadly agenda. Likin explained in a phone interview that Russian television caters to those who are unwilling to seek information from other sources, typically individuals lacking education or critical thinking skills. The invasion of Ukraine by Putin has prompted some Russians who previously worked for the government to sever ties with it, indicating the Kremlin's struggle to maintain unity among society in support of the war. There have been numerous arrests and mass exodus from Ukraine in protest of the invasion, as well as several high-profile resignations within the Russian government and state television channels. One particularly notable act of protest was Marina Ovsyannikova interrupting a live news broadcast to display an anti-war poster. The resignations offer a glimpse into the turmoil within Putin's system and highlight the significant influence of television in shaping public opinion on the war. Some individuals left behind are reportedly experiencing clinical depression. Many individuals who think critically are feeling a sense of guilt, with no clear way out. Merely asking for forgiveness is not sufficient. Despite the decline in influence due to platforms like YouTube and social media, Russia's national television networks, all controlled by the Kremlin, remain the primary source of news for much of the public. According to surveys conducted by the Levada Center, about two-thirds of Russians relied on state television for news last year, a decrease from 90% in 2014. Throughout the war, state television has presented Russians with a narrative of the conflict that contrasts sharply with what is shown in the West, portraying Russians as the heroes, akin to their role in World War II, liberating Ukrainian lands from neo-Nazis funded by the West. Photographs of dead civilians and destroyed homes are being falsely labeled as either fake or the result of Ukrainians shelling their own areas. A reporter from Channel 1 reported that locals in Mariupol believe the Ukrainian military is intentionally targeting residential buildings, while others claim nationalists were ordered to destroy the city before retreating. Polls show that most Russians believe the narrative being presented on their television, which portrays the war as a continuation of longstanding grievances against the West. State television journalists have intensified their message of Russia fighting for its existence, while some, like Liliya Gildeyeva, have left their jobs due to compromises made in the past. She mentioned that when you start to give in to yourself slowly, you may not realize how far you have fallen. The shock of the war has caused many Russians to leave the country in recent weeks, with planes heading to destinations like Turkey and Armenia. Some fleeing are journalists and activists fearing arrest, while others are young professionals who see no future for themselves in Russia. Even some members of Russia's elite have left, with the high-profile departure of Chubais, the Kremlin's climate envoy, making headlines on Wednesday due to his resignation over the war in Ukraine. The Kremlin has confirmed Chubais' resignation, noting his status as one of the few liberal officials left in Putin's government. Chubais' involvement in economic reforms in the 1990s made him unpopular in Russia. It is uncertain if discontent among some elites could affect Putin's government stability. Likin, a former Channel 1 art director, believes those willing to resign over principles are a small minority in Russia. Agalakova, a former Channel 1 correspondent, criticized colleagues who stayed for not working for an idea. Individuals have families, debts, and basic needs for survival. Those who leave their jobs at state television, especially those who speak out, face an uncertain future. Agalakova, speaking from Paris where she worked as a correspondent, mentioned that some of her contacts stopped communicating with her after she resigned. Likin, on the other hand, plans to stay in Russia and continue his career as an architect, with the possibility of returning to television if there is a shift in the network's agenda. Government-sponsored surveys suggest that most Russians support Putin's actions in the invasion, although analysts note that people may be less honest in their responses during times of conflict. Agalakova now realizes that years of propaganda on Russian television played a role in shaping public opinion to support the government's current policies, by distorting the memory of the country's sacrifice in World War II. Agalakova expressed her concern about the impact of the Kremlin's false claims of fighting Nazis in Ukraine, stating that it creates an immediate reaction in society. She described it as a shameless and fraudulent game. As a result of the propaganda, Russians who are skeptical of television have limited options for obtaining accurate news. The Echo of Moscow radio station has been shut down, TV Rain has gone off the air, and access to Facebook and Instagram has been blocked by the government. Recently, journalist Alexander Nevzorov came under criminal investigation for sharing information about the Russian bombing of Mariupol on his Instagram page. The most recent attempt to instill fear in critics of the war involved the enforcement of a new law in Russia that can result in up to 15 years in prison for going against the official narrative of the conflict in Ukraine. According to Denis Volkov, the director of the Levada polling center, the true test of Russian public opinion will come as economic difficulties caused by Western sanctions impact society. Despite this, Volkov believes that the Kremlin's narrative of the West undermining Ukraine to weaken Russia and Russia defending its people abroad has become deeply entrenched in the minds of television viewers and is unlikely to be challenged soon. According to Volkov, many Russians accept news that aligns with the television narrative and reject anything that does not, regardless of its truthfulness. | 2 |
The US-India Business Council (USIBC) praised the reforms presented in the budget, particularly the increase in the FDI cap for insurance and policy changes to address transfer pricing challenges and promote infrastructure investment. USIBC, consisting of 300 top US and Indian companies, applauded the finance minister's leadership and business-friendly policies. They expressed their commitment to being long-term partners in India's growth. USIBC viewed the lifting of the insurance composite FDI cap and the increase in the FDI cap for defense as positive steps to improve the investment climate and create jobs. They emphasized the need for clarity on retrospective taxation to ensure tax certainty for investors. USIBC also supported India's initiatives for Smart City development and public-private partnerships in airports. US-India Political Action Committee (USINPAC) welcomed the increase in FDI cap in defense and insurance sectors, highlighting the potential for technology transfer and equity investments. He stated that both of these advancements are praiseworthy, and it will motivate global investors, including those from the Indian diasporas, to engage in the growth of India's defense and insurance sectors. | 2 |
After his global teleconference on September 11, 2001 ended in chaos, a top economist at a US investment bank began to consider the implications of the attacks on the United States for the future of the world. Jim O'Neill of Goldman Sachs, who had been in the World Trade Center just two days prior to the attacks, concluded that the next decade would be shaped by the emergence of China, Russia, India, and Brazil as major global economies, rather than by Al Qaeda or the US as the sole superpower. O'Neill coined the term "BRICs" after the first letter of the countries' names and launched the phrase in a pamphlet in November 2001. He believes that the lasting consequence of 9/11 should be the end of American dominance in globalisation, which seems to have come true based on the trends from the past decade. O'Neill, who now heads Goldman's global asset management business, considers this trend to be more significant in world history than the 9/11 strikes and their aftermath. When O'Neill created the term BRIC, the four major emerging economies accounted for eight percent of the global economy. The top five economies at that time were the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, and France. A decade later, the BRICs have experienced even faster growth than O'Neill anticipated, now making up nearly 20 percent of the world economy. China has become the second largest economic power globally, while Britain, a key ally of the US in the war on terror, has fallen out of the top five, replaced by Brazil. India and Russia are also quickly catching up. Shortly after the attacks on New York and Washington, the United States initiated an extensive and resource-draining global "war on terror" and began planning retaliation against not only Al Qaeda but also other perceived threats such as Saddam Hussein's Iraq. Initially, it seemed as though the US and its allies had achieved victory, with significant damage to the Al-Qaeda network, the deaths of key leaders like Osama Bin Laden, and a lack of major terrorist attacks in the West for several years. However, the true cost of this apparent success, both in terms of finances and diplomatic relations, is not as immediately apparent. Joseph Nye, a former US under-secretary of state and defense as well as a Harvard professor of international relations, noted that during the early 2000s, while the global economy was shifting towards Asia, the United States was preoccupied with a costly war in the Middle East that was ultimately unnecessary. According to him, the actions taken by the US significantly damaged its influence in diplomacy, values, and culture, while also diminishing its military and economic strength. The increase in national debt from $5.8 trillion to $14.7 trillion over the past decade can be attributed to unfunded tax cuts, post-financial crisis stimulus measures, and other domestic spending increases. America's wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan after 9/11 significantly increased the financial burden. According to a recent estimate by Brown University, the total cost of these conflicts could be as high as $4.4 trillion, which is almost one-third of the total cost. Nigel Inkster, a former deputy head of Britain's Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) and current head of transnational threats and political risk at London's International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), believes that the American response to 9/11 was an overreaction. He also suggests that in the grand scheme of things, the impact of 9/11 and the rise of Al Qaeda may be considered insignificant. Other Western powers also took drastic measures in response to the attacks. Similar to then-US president George W Bush, British Prime Minister Tony Blair viewed the September 11 attacks as a pivotal moment that needed to alter global politics. Blair expressed in a forthcoming television interview on www.reuters.com that he believed the terrorist attack was not just significant in scale but also required a shift in the world's political landscape. Despite uncertainty on what actions needed to be taken, Blair was certain that the risk assessment had changed. This conviction led to the UK's involvement in wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, which proved to be costly endeavors that may not have had as significant an impact on Britain as the challenges posed by a rapidly changing global economy and internal financial issues. The Iraq war severely damaged Blair's leadership and reputation when it was revealed that Britain went to war based on incorrect information about weapons of mass destruction. Wolfgang Ischinger, a former German deputy foreign minister and US ambassador, believes that the events of September 11 shattered the idea of one superpower ruling the world. However, he argues that the rise of the BRICs will have a more lasting impact on global power dynamics and governance. Ischinger suggests that the confusion caused by 9/11 delayed the world from learning important lessons and led some countries down the wrong path. He questions whether the financial crisis may have had a more significant impact than 9/11. During a flight to Houston for a meeting between King Abdullah of Jordan and President Bush, Al Qaeda launched an attack. Jordan's ambassador to Washington, Marwan Muasher, initially feared an anti-Muslim backlash in the US. He believes that while the US successfully avoided this backlash, they misjudged their broader reaction and should not have started the Iraq war. Muasher, who later served as foreign minister and is now a vice president at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a US think-tank, points out that other events such as the financial crisis have since overshadowed the impact of 9/11. He argues that the era of US dominance was short-lived and unsustainable, as other powers are now emerging. Ian Bremmer, the president of Eurasia Group, a political risk consultancy, believes that the world has shifted focus from the events of September 11. He argues that the year 2008 was a more significant turning point, marked by the financial crisis and the Beijing Olympics. This period also saw China transitioning from being viewed as an emerging market to a major player on the global stage. China displayed great confidence at the 2008 Olympics opening ceremony, showcasing impressive new buildings in its capital and disregarding Western concerns about human rights violations. The country's significant financial and economic influence, including holding $1.2 trillion of US government debt, makes it difficult for the West to criticize. In the midst of a government debt crisis in Europe, leaders turned to China for help by purchasing euro-zone securities, a situation that would have been unthinkable in the past. In August 2008, Russia, a fellow BRIC country, quickly defeated US-supported Georgia in a war, marking the first time Moscow had deployed troops beyond its borders since the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991. This more assertive approach from emerging powers in their regions, like China or India, could be seen in the future. Stephen Jennings, CEO of Renaissance Capital, believes that investment patterns are changing, with more big business deals now being made in developing nations by emerging market investors and funded by BRIC banks. Jennings stated that traditional financial centers like London and New York are losing their dominance, and emerging market economies like Russia are becoming leaders in the new economic order. The diplomatic order has also shifted accordingly. In 2009, US President Barack Obama chose to negotiate a deal at the Copenhagen climate summit with leaders from emerging nations like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa instead of the other G8 developed states. South Africa was particularly interested in aligning itself with the BRICS group to challenge traditional powers. The Arab Spring uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa caught both local and Western leaders off guard, including Al Qaeda. Some saw these events as a warning for authoritarian countries like China, while critics accused the US and its allies of hypocrisy for supporting oppressive Arab leaders for their own interests and then abandoning them when it became inconvenient. Recently, documents found in Libya have exposed close cooperation between Western intelligence services and Col Muammar Gaddafi's regime, causing embarrassment for Britain and the United States. Jan Egeland, who served as Europe head of Human Rights Watch and United Nations global humanitarian chief from 2003 to 2006, criticizes the approach that suggested embracing the dark side to defeat terror. He believes this approach damaged the reputation of the West, especially as emerging economies were already making progress. The world has changed significantly since September 11, 2001, with conflicts decreasing in many parts of the globe despite the US and its allies engaging in wars in the Middle East. Development economists like Jeffrey Sachs argue that the billions spent on Western wars could have been better used to alleviate poverty in the poorest countries. Despite a growing wealth gap in many states, BRIC economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty. The increasing economic strength of the BRICs is now being reflected in their growing military power, while the West is experiencing a decline in both financial stability and defense spending. The International Institute for Strategic Studies noted in its recent survey that military budgets in Asia and the Middle East are rising significantly, while those in the West are being reduced. This shift indicates a global redistribution of military power. For example, Britain recently decommissioned its aircraft carrier while China launched its first one. Analyst Goldman's O'Neill predicts that the BRICs' economic growth will have a greater impact than the events of September 11 in the long term. His bank is promoting the benefits of the "N-11" group of emerging market economies, which includes countries like Mexico, Indonesia, and Turkey. He also believes that the 9/11 attack and its aftermath may have influenced the BRICs' more assertive global approach. The attack may have caused these countries to doubt America's power and rely more on themselves. Some worry that the focus on the Middle East may have caused old powers to miss the opportunity to influence the new world order, but even if they had paid more attention, it may not have made much of a difference. Former British spy Inkster acknowledges that the attention on the Islamic world caused the shift to emerging powers to catch them off guard, although it likely would have been surprising regardless. | 2 |
He has recently returned from a summit in Hanoi with North Korea that ended in disagreement, causing the situation to worsen. In addition to the failed meeting with Kim Jong Un, Trump is facing challenges at home, including accusations from his former lawyer and ongoing talks with China, a crisis in Venezuela, tensions between India and Pakistan, and attempts in Congress to block his emergency declaration for border wall funding. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election is also nearing its conclusion, keeping the spotlight on Trump and his campaign. Before leaving for Vietnam, Trump expressed frustration about the upcoming testimony from Michael Cohen and the lack of support from Democrats while he was abroad. He also expressed a desire for the Mueller report to be completed. According to an unnamed source who was present, he was displeased that the hearings were taking place while he was abroad, and that the Mueller investigation had not wrapped up before his departure. Trump felt that there was a sense of uncertainty surrounding him. During the summit, Trump ended discussions on North Korea’s denuclearization early, leading to conflicting reports from both sides and casting doubt on the future of one of his key initiatives. The White House had initially planned a signing ceremony for a deal in Hanoi, but ultimately decided to cancel it. Trump's Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, criticized reporters for being fixated on what he dismissed as "process" and labeled them as "radically uninformed." Pompeo advised the reporters not to focus on such matters. Meanwhile, Trump stayed updated on Michael Cohen's testimony from his hotel suite in Hanoi, despite the time difference. Trump's inner circle believed that the president handled the week well, as there were no surprises in Cohen's testimony and Trump was praised for walking away from a potentially unfavorable deal with North Korea. Christopher Ruddy, a close friend of the president, stated that it was expected that North Korea would be difficult to negotiate with and that Cohen would make negative remarks. Ruddy told Reuters that he doesn't believe Cohen's testimony will affect President Trump's political standing. However, some of Trump's allies have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of his re-election campaign in responding to the allegations. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie questioned why there has been a lack of defense for the president. Trump is expected to receive support from his supporters when he speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Maryland over the weekend. Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel defended Trump's handling of the Vietnam summit at the CPAC event. She explained that he left in a justified manner because he made it clear that the sanctions would not be lifted unless there was a commitment to denuclearization. This statement was met with applause. | 2 |
Many health experts believe that innovations in medical care delivery and the establishment of state health insurance exchanges will continue even if President Obama's healthcare reforms are struck down or repealed. However, former healthcare policymakers warn that cost control measures could be jeopardized if arbitrary spending cuts are implemented in response to fiscal pressures. Dr. Don Berwick, former head of Medicare and Medicaid under Obama, cautioned against cutting benefits and Medicaid coverage, stating that it would worsen the situation. The Affordable Care Act aims to provide healthcare coverage to over 30 million uninsured Americans through Medicaid expansion and subsidized private insurance options in state exchanges. It also requires new ideas that could steer America's $2.6 trillion healthcare system, the most expensive in the world, towards incentives aimed at controlling costs. The law is facing strong opposition from Republicans and is entering a period of significant uncertainty. The Supreme Court is expected to make a decision on the constitutionality of the individual mandate next spring, which is a critical component of the law that mandates all Americans to purchase insurance. Later on, voters will determine whether Republicans or Democrats will control the White House and Congress. Current and former healthcare officials are optimistic about changes that would reward healthcare providers based on patient outcomes rather than the quantity of tests and procedures they perform. For a panel discussion on the topic moderated by Reuters at Harvard School of Public Health, visit www.ForumHSPH.org. Dr. Mark McClellan, who supervised Medicare, Medicaid, and the Food and Drug Administration under President George W. Bush, stated, "These reforms have the potential to significantly impact healthcare costs in the long term." Various innovations, such as "bundled payments," establish cost goals for specific conditions that teams of doctors must achieve. Some innovations also incentivize healthcare providers to keep patients healthy and achieve successful outcomes while saving money. These innovations were already making an impact in the private market before the healthcare bill was signed into law by Obama in March 2010. The momentum of these innovations has accelerated across the United States due to the law's efforts to implement them in Medicare and Medicaid, which collectively spend about $900 billion annually to provide care for 100 million beneficiaries. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, which is a year old, plans to develop around two dozen innovation models with private partners in the coming years. According to experts, innovations in healthcare delivery are important as they help providers deal with increasing cost pressures from both employers sponsoring health insurance and government agencies trying to reduce spending. Don Moran, a healthcare consultant in Washington who worked in President Ronald Reagan's Office of Management and Budget, stated that these innovations are a response to market realities rather than just reformist interests. The future of innovation in healthcare could change significantly after the November elections if Washington decides to address deficits by making cuts to Medicare and Medicaid that support the traditional fee-for-service model. However, these innovations are at risk because they have not yet demonstrated a track record of cost-cutting that could be quantified by the bipartisan Congressional Budget Office for deficit reduction. Gail Wilensky, former head of Medicare and Medicaid, is concerned that Congress will reduce payments to healthcare providers, potentially leading them to stop treating Medicare patients. She believes this short-term solution may not be in the best interest of senior citizens. Some experts suggest that financial constraints could prompt the Obama administration to postpone certain aspects of the healthcare law, such as state health insurance exchanges and the mandate for individuals to have health insurance. Delaying the implementation of the law could result in significant cost savings for the government, allowing officials more time to establish exchanges that have been developing slowly due to uncertainties caused by the Supreme Court case and the upcoming election. An administration official has stated that there are no current plans to postpone the implementation of the law. Analysts suggest that the election may not significantly impact the fate of the law unless President Obama is not re-elected, as partisan gridlock in Congress may prevent any major changes even if Republicans gain a slight majority in the Senate. It is possible for certain sections of the law, such as state insurance exchanges, to move forward even if the individual mandate is overturned in court, repealed after the election, or weakened by political and budget constraints. McClellan suggested that rather than mandating insurance purchases, the government could implement voluntary rules similar to Medicare Part D, which offers rewards for early enrollment and penalties for late enrollment. Although state exchanges may not be as strong without the individual mandate, this could lead to savings. There are currently no discussions about using Part D enrollment restrictions instead of the individual mandate. | 2 |
Four years ago, the joint programme of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), referred to the United States as Germany's most crucial ally outside of Europe. The 2013 programme also emphasized the significance of the friendship with Washington as a cornerstone of Germany's international relations and discussed enhancing transatlantic economic ties by eliminating trade barriers. However, the latest election programme, titled "For a Germany in which we live well and happily," presented by Merkel and CSU leader Horst Seehofer on Monday before the September 24 election, does not include the terms "friend" or "friendship." Instead, the United States is referred to as Germany's most vital partner outside of Europe. CDU officials were not immediately available to provide a comment on the change in wording. The change in wording highlights the deteriorating relationship between Berlin and Washington since Donald Trump became US President in January. Trump criticized Merkel during his campaign, accusing her of damaging Germany with migration policies he deemed as "insane". He has also criticized Germany's trade surplus with the US, claimed that NATO partners owe "massive amounts of money", and caused concern among western allies by withdrawing from the Paris climate agreement. A recent survey by the Pew Research Centre revealed that only 35% of Germans have a positive view of the US, down from 57% at the end of Obama's presidency. Merkel is scheduled to host Trump and other leaders at a G20 summit in Hamburg later this week. The 2017 election program for the CDU/CSU references historical US support for Germany post-World War Two and leading up to German reunification, in contrast to the 2013 program which focused on strengthening economic ties. Chancellor Merkel reiterated a statement she made in Munich in late May following a challenging G7 summit, where President Trump resisted pressure to remain in the Paris agreement. The program emphasizes that Europe can no longer fully rely on others and must take more control of its own fate. While reaffirming Germany's commitment to NATO, the program also stresses the need for the EU to be able to defend itself independently for long-term survival. It also includes a unique section called "Germany and France as the Driving Force of Europe" that promises to strengthen the relationship between the two nations. The document expresses readiness to work with the new French government to enhance the euro zone gradually, such as by establishing its own monetary fund. However, it specifically rejects the idea of sharing debt in Europe and emphasizes that "solidarity" will only be achievable if EU countries adhere to the rules outlined in the bloc's Growth and Stability Pact. | 2 |
Here are 10 celebrities who made a positive impact on the world by taking a stand in the past year. Meghan Markle, who married into Britain's royal family in May, has focused on women's rights and collaborated with survivors of London's Grenfell Tower fire. Emma Watson, known for her role as Hermione in the Harry Potter films, campaigned for the #MeToo movement in 2018 and donated one million pounds to support charities fighting sexual abuse. In October, Watson penned a public letter calling for an end to strict abortion laws spanning from India to Ireland, all while being photographed wearing earrings made from shrapnel and unexploded bombs from Laos. David Attenborough, the elderly nature documentary broadcaster, used 2018 and the annual UN climate talks in Poland to support young people and emphasize the urgent need for progress on climate action. Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan solidified his popularity in India by paying off the debts of farmers, totaling over 40 million rupees, after an agricultural crisis plunged many into severe poverty. 5. Elton John, the British singer-songwriter known for his advocacy for LGBT+ rights, expressed his disappointment at the lack of support for those living in poverty to access HIV/AIDS medical treatment, labeling it as a disgrace.
6. Millie Bobby Brown, the young actress from the popular Netflix series "Stranger Things," was appointed as the youngest goodwill ambassador for UNICEF this year. She pledged to address issues related to children's rights, education, poverty, and bullying, calling it a dream come true. Michelle Obama, the ex-first lady of the United States, has been traveling around the world promoting her memoir and advocating for women's rights and girls' education. Raised in a working-class family in Chicago, Obama aims to inspire women to remain hopeful in challenging political and social environments. David Beckham, the former captain of the English soccer team, has partnered with the charity Malaria No More UK to support their global campaign against malaria. The former sports star appeared in a brief movie where he was surrounded by mosquitoes to bring attention to the fact that malaria still claims the lives of approximately 445,000 individuals annually, as reported by the World Health Organisation. Cate Blanchett, an Australian actress and United Nations' refugee goodwill ambassador, raised awareness about the Rohingya crisis, calling on countries to provide more assistance to refugees escaping from Myanmar to Bangladesh. Despite her two Oscar wins, Blanchett emphasized the urgent need to safeguard Rohingya refugees, describing it as a "race against time". Princess Beatrice, the eighth in line to the British throne, has advocated for addressing online abuse and cyber-bullying, particularly targeting young women and girls. Her efforts align with a larger anti-bullying movement supported by celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Cara Delevingne under the slogan "Be Cool Be Nice." | 2 |
In mid-October, racially charged graffiti reading "KKK Bitch" began appearing on cars, homes, and telephone poles in Kokomo, Indiana. Many of the victims, including Peters, were African American, though some were not. Several of the targeted homes had Democratic candidate signs that were painted over with the Ku Klux Klan's initials. Peters believes that the divisive nature of the presidential campaign, particularly the nativist rhetoric of Republican candidate Donald Trump, has emboldened extremists to commit such acts. She expressed concern that when political figures make ignorant statements, it may give others the impression that such behavior is acceptable, which is deeply troubling. Our nation appears to be regressing, as police have no leads on the attacks. Democrats suspect political motives, while local Republicans are doubtful and believe the perpetrators to be unruly troublemakers. The divisive political rhetoric is spreading across the country, polarizing the public, though the exact impact is difficult to measure without national data on politically motivated crimes or inflammatory speech. The percentage of voters who believe it is acceptable to insult political opponents has increased from 30 percent in March to 43 percent in October, according to surveys conducted by the non-partisan Pew Research Center. A majority of voters from both parties have strong negative views of the other party for the first time since 1992, and trust in the government is at a near all-time low. These trends indicate tensions between different groups that can lead to anything from rude conversations to extremist actions, according to Brian Levin, director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University. While much of the hostility has been directed towards immigrants, African Americans, and other groups typically associated with Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, Republicans have also faced criticism. The focus of the discussion on extremism has largely been on the Alt-Right, a loosely connected group of white nationalists, anti-Semites, and immigration opponents who have come out of the shadows to support the Trump campaign. A person who supports the Ku Klux Klan was observed displaying his tattoos at a rally at the statehouse in Columbia, South Carolina on July 18, 2015. Trump's promises to construct a border wall, expel millions of undocumented immigrants, and investigate Muslims for connections to terrorism have motivated the Alt-Right group. Michael Hill, a self-proclaimed white supremacist, anti-Semite, and xenophobe who leads the League of the South, a "Southern Nationalist" group aiming to establish a separate "white man's land," stated that the rhetoric surrounding the Alt-Right has justified their concerns about the decline of the country's white, Christian majority. Hill believes that the political atmosphere surrounding certain campaigns has been beneficial not only for his group but also for other right-wing organizations. Similar nationalist sentiments have emerged in various countries such as Russia, Japan, and Britain, where a pro-EU lawmaker, Jo Cox, was tragically killed during the Brexit debate. There have been reports of political hostility, vandalism, and violence in the United States as well, including incidents like the burning of a black church in Mississippi with "Vote Trump" painted on it, the arson of a county Republican office in North Carolina, and the dumping of manure at a Democratic campaign office in Ohio. In Utah, a man who had Trump yard signs on display discovered KKK graffiti on his car. Meanwhile, in Wisconsin, a college football fan wore a President Barack Obama mask with a noose around his neck. Both the Trump and Clinton campaigns did not respond to requests for comment. According to white nationalist Jared Taylor, Trump's views align with the Alt-Right's goal of "slowing the dispossession of whites." However, Taylor believes the media is exaggerating Trump's support within the Alt-Right in order to undermine him. Trump has faced criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans for being slow to denounce extreme elements of the political right. However, when a prominent KKK newspaper published a favorable article about him, his campaign quickly rejected it as "repulsive." Alt-Right figures like Taylor and Hill deny advocating for violence or vandalism and argue that their rhetoric is not hate speech. They claim that they are unfairly vilified by the left. Heidi Beirich of the Southern Poverty Law Center points out that left-wing extremists have a history of aggressive confrontation with groups they view as fascist or racist. She stated that typically, anti-racists are more violent than racists. The First Amendment of the US Constitution provides extensive protection for inflammatory speech, but state and federal laws allow law enforcement to investigate and prosecute hate crimes motivated by bias. Last year, California State University researchers reported a 6 percent increase in hate crimes, with a significant rise of 86 percent in crimes against Muslims. Some individuals who are involved in politics and academia believe that there has been a gradual decline in civility that predates the current presidential campaign. Craig Dunn, the Republican party chairman for Howard County, Indiana, which encompasses Kokomo, argues that a small number of extreme voices are being magnified through the Internet and social media, leading to a general breakdown in politeness. Local leaders are concerned about the impact on their community. Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight, a Democrat, notes that the atmosphere has become more tense and volatile, with incidents like graffiti attacks causing alarm. Monica Fowler, 43, who had her Democratic yard signs vandalized with the letters "KKK," is struggling to cope with the violence. She states that it is acceptable to have differing opinions, but if your actions will cause fear or harm to someone else, you have no right to do so. | 2 |
The Dhaka City Corporation has approximately 250 dumpsters filled with waste throughout the capital, which is not sufficient for a city of millions. To address this issue, a youth-based organization called Footsteps is proposing to privatize trash cans. Through their project 'WECan', they plan to sell commercial trash cans to businesses and place them in front of corporate offices for use by pedestrians. The trash cans will be part of a company's Corporate Social Responsibility and will feature the company's logo and a socially conscious message. The cans will be sold for Tk 5000 and come with metal chains to prevent theft. Revenue earned from the cans will be used to provide winter clothes to the poor. Footsteps encourages companies to purchase multiple cans for maximum effectiveness and states that maintenance of the cans will be the company's responsibility. By funding a trash can, companies can benefit the environment and promote their brand through an effective advertising campaign. Footsteps, founded in 2012, aims to engage Bangladeshi youth in various social issues and has volunteers working to increase sales of the trash cans. | 2 |
Fifty years after the opening of the first atomic power plant in Obninsk near Moscow, nuclear power is gaining appeal as a solution to climate change despite the challenge of storing toxic waste. Studies show that the 439 nuclear power plants worldwide emit minimal greenhouse gases, preventing emissions equivalent to those of Japan each year compared to fossil fuel-generated electricity. However, the risks of accidents, like the one at Chernobyl in 1986, pose difficult decisions for governments considering nuclear power as a tool against global warming. Rajendra Pachauri, head of the UN Climate Panel, acknowledges that nuclear power is not a simple choice, as it accounts for a significant portion of global electricity generation. "But having the necessary infrastructure and facilities for waste disposal is crucial, and I believe that each country should have the autonomy to make decisions on this matter." Despite the fact that some radioactive waste will remain toxic for thousands of years and there are still no permanent storage solutions for high-level waste even decades after the Obninsk reactor opened in 1954, some countries like Britain are investing in new nuclear power stations. Additionally, Finland and France are constructing new plants, and companies in the United States are starting to apply for licenses. Currently, there are 34 nuclear plants being built around the world. While there is increasing support for nuclear power due to factors such as climate change, energy security, and high oil prices, there are still many who remain opposed to it. Jan Beranek from Greenpeace believes that the idea of a 'nuclear renaissance' is gaining popularity as countries consider nuclear power as a solution to climate change and energy security. However, he argues that investing in nuclear energy is not the way forward, as it takes away resources that could be used for renewable energies like wind, hydro, solar, or tidal power. Norwegian Environment Minister Erik Solheim, whose country does not have nuclear power, also highlights the storage challenges associated with nuclear energy. Despite these concerns, the U.N. climate panel led by Pachauri stated in 2007 that nuclear power could be an effective option for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The panel referenced a study stating that nuclear power currently prevents 1.5 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases annually in comparison to the global average emissions from electricity generation. In contrast, Japan emitted 1.4 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases in 2005. Some studies suggest that nuclear emissions may be higher due to factors like ore processing and decommissioning. Additionally, there are concerns about the environmental impact of nuclear power, as well as worries about terrorist attacks on nuclear plants or the potential misuse of the technology for creating weapons. Ferenc Toth, a senior energy economist at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), noted that public perception of nuclear power is often influenced by memories of events like the Chernobyl disaster. The IAEA predicts that the leak at Chernobyl could lead to the deaths of 4,000 people near the plant and possibly 5,000 more further away due to radiation-induced cancers. Toth emphasized that the environmental advantages of nuclear power, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, are not as widely recognized. He also suggested that nuclear power could be a viable environmental option for developing countries, including China and India, where it could help decrease pollution and compete with coal due to high transport costs. He observed that large developing countries were also exploring ways to reduce their increasing greenhouse gas emissions in the long run, even though they are not currently restricted by the U.N.'s Kyoto Protocol, which is designed to address climate change until 2012. The UN Climate Panel stated that while there are temporary waste storage facilities, there are no permanent repositories yet for high-level waste like spent light-water reactor fuel. According to Toth, Finland and Sweden are the closest to implementing deep geological storage. The Yucca Mountain storage site in the U.S. could take 10 to 15 years to develop. However, he mentioned that future technologies might allow for recycling of the waste before it needs to be permanently buried. | 2 |
Marguerite Hanley, a native Californian living in Amsterdam, is a traveler who has come to recognize the importance of our actions in the wake of a year of introspection prompted by global events such as COVID-19. She has chosen to modify her plans for an ambitious honeymoon in Africa next March, opting instead for a slower-paced trip focused on supporting conservation efforts and local communities in Botswana. Hanley believes that this shift in travel plans will not only benefit the communities she visits but also reduce her carbon footprint. This trend towards slow travel is reminiscent of the slow food movement, which promotes sustainability, local sourcing, and traditional artisanal practices. The enduring appeal of walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in Spain has been around for centuries, but it is now attracting more travelers for various reasons. These reasons include seeking solace from social distancing, avoiding flight-shaming, taking a meditative break, or practicing caution due to the pandemic. These mindful trips involve visiting fewer places and traveling at a slower pace, whether by car, train, bike, foot, or canoe. Kyle Kowalski, the founder of Sloww, a website focused on slow living, explains that slow travel is not just about what you do, but how you do it. Instead of a packed itinerary, slow travel encourages intentionally choosing to do less in order to experience more. Slow travel is not about rushing from one place to another, but rather finding a balance and pace that allows for open time to create spontaneity and space. Many people have experienced a slower pace of life during the pandemic, leading to a surge in the slow travel movement. For example, Julia Douglas, a social media manager in Los Angeles, chose to walk instead of ordering an Uber and took an eight-hour train ride from New York City to Buffalo instead of flying in order to minimize pollution. While commuter train ridership has declined, long-distance train travel has seen a resurgence, with Amtrak Vacations reporting a 47 percent increase in bookings compared to 2019. In Europe, the European Union has designated 2021 as the European Year of Rail to promote sustainable transportation, leading to a resurgence in long-distance train travel. Night train networks have seen a revival, and a startup called Midnight Trains is planning to introduce luxury sleeper cars on routes from Paris to over 10 cities starting in 2024. The pandemic has allowed for more flexibility in travel due to work-from-anywhere policies, with companies like Airbnb and Exclusive Resorts reporting an increase in longer-term stays compared to previous years. The current travel requirements, such as testing and entry applications, are causing delays in the travel process. In the past, travelers would visit multiple destinations in one trip, but now, due to COVID tests and flight disruptions, many are opting for single-country safaris in places like Kenya, Uganda, or Zambia. Getting a COVID test before returning to the United States is also causing delays. Travel experts are recommending adding extra days at the end of a vacation to deal with testing requirements. These practicalities, along with other factors, are slowing down travel plans. There is a comforting allure for travelers who may be feeling overwhelmed after a year of living cautiously due to the coronavirus. Up Norway, a specialized travel company, has begun promoting the idea of "kos," a Norwegian term representing peace, harmony, and gratitude that is achieved through leisurely travel and appreciating the simple joys of culture and nature. This concept contrasts with the typical whirlwind sightseeing trips to popular landmarks like Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower, offering instead 28-day stays in secluded areas of Norway. According to Denise Ambrusko-Maida, a travel adviser from Buffalo, New York, there is a shift away from crowded tourist destinations towards more meaningful and immersive travel experiences. "They do not desire to be crowded and moving slowly in queues." Rebecca Werner, a travel adviser based in Chicago working with Protravel, recently arranged a summer train journey to Glacier National Park for a family of four from Wisconsin who enjoy the Netflix miniseries "The Queen's Gambit." She mentioned that it was a great way for the family to bond, enjoy the scenery, and play chess on the train. For these travelers, focusing on personal interests has become more important than checking items off a bucket list. David Demers from Naples, Florida, who recently sold his health care company, is planning two long trips next year to Israel and the Mediterranean with Untold Story Travel, allowing ample time to explore his passions for history, theater, food, and art. Demers mentioned that in the past, travel was about rushing to see everything, but the pandemic has taught people to slow down and focus on what truly matters. To cater to this new mindset, the travel company Sojrn has introduced month-long trips centered around one destination, each with a specific educational theme such as philosophy in Athens, wine in Italy, or learning Spanish in Colombia. Travellers choose to stay in local apartments and take part in weekly dinners and events, allowing for plenty of free time to work and explore. Cara Wright from Apple Valley, Minnesota, is avoiding overplanning and will be working for a nonprofit while in Italy with Sojrn in October. Donna Hetrick, a potter from Pittsburgh, is opting for slow travel to reduce her environmental impact, deciding against a short safari and instead planning to spend several months biking in Africa with TDA Global Cycling starting in 2022. This longer trip not only helps offset her carbon footprint but also allows for a deeper connection to the destination. She mentioned that being on a bicycle makes you more approachable to others. Slow tourism, which involves travelling lightly, exploring less popular areas, engaging with local communities, and supporting local businesses, is seen as a sustainable form of travel. It is also seen as a solution to overtourism, where destinations like Dubrovnik suffered from overcrowding before the pandemic. Martha Honey, a former executive director of the Center for Responsible Travel, believes slow tourism is more sustainable because it allows people to spend more time in a destination and spread out. She describes slow travel as beneficial for both the traveler, who can immerse themselves more deeply in a destination, and the destination itself, which can benefit from the dispersed benefits of travel. Honey credits the recent movement to support local businesses during the pandemic for popularizing slow tourism principles, as it is seen as less disruptive and more economically beneficial. The popularity of destinations like Alaska and Montana this summer shows that travelers are avoiding crowded places. In a recent survey by Flywire, three-quarters of more than 800 travelers in five countries, including the United States, said they prefer uncrowded destinations. Responsible Travel has introduced an 11-week trip around the world by train and cargo ship for eco-conscious explorers who want to minimize their impact. This journey allows travelers to experience different cultures and environments while becoming more aware of their surroundings. For those who prefer a slower pace, human-powered travel like hiking, biking, and paddling provide a closer connection to nature and allow for appreciation of small details. Kristi Growdon, a personal golf trainer from Seattle, pointed out that cycling allows you to notice things you wouldn't see when driving because of the slower pace. She recently went on a cycling trip to Utah with VBT Bicycling Vacations, a company that has almost sold out all of its domestic departures this year. Meanwhile, membership at the Maine Island Trail Association, which provides access to information about a route across over 200 undeveloped islands along the Maine coast, increased by 23 percent last year. Michael Daugherty, co-owner of Sea Kayak Stonington, emphasized that sea kayaking gives you access to places other boats can't reach, such as the intertidal zone, which is affected by tide and swell. Daugherty and his wife, Rebecca Daugherty, an artist, have paddled 625 miles along the Maine coast and published the illustrated book “Upwest & Downeast” in 2020. Daugherty explained, "I'm a painter, and it takes time to truly see a place." On my 55-day trip, I felt that the pace was not slow enough. Tour operators are now offering more relaxed vacation packages to cater to this trend. Backroads, an active travel company, has launched a new division called Dolce Tempo this year, which offers a more leisurely pace. All 2021 trips are already sold out, and in 2022, they plan to add 100 new Dolce Tempo departures both domestically and abroad, including Scandinavia, England, and along the Danube River. While it only takes about 5 1/2 hours to drive from Denver to Moab, Utah, starting in August, passengers of the Rocky Mountaineer train can complete the journey in two days with an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The company has expanded the popular Rockies to the Red Rocks route and extended its first season to November 19 due to high demand. The new Aquarius Trail Hut System in southern Utah features five backcountry huts made from recycled shipping containers, powered by solar energy, and spread out along a 190-mile biking route from Brian Head Peak to Escalante. Cyclists journey through Dixie National Forest, Red Canyon's hoodoos, and Bryce Canyon National Park. Jared Fisher, owner of Escape Adventures in Las Vegas, created the system over five years to make bike-packing more accessible by providing food and bedding, reducing the need for extensive gear and planning. Fisher, a passionate bike-packer, has cycled across the United States on three separate occasions. He expressed his love for the freedom and mental clarity that comes with traveling by bike, stating that he enjoys being immersed in nature and experiencing it with all his senses. | 2 |
Pakistani comedian Alamzeb Mujahid, known as Janaan, announced his retirement from showbiz at a news conference after being released by Islamist militants who kidnapped him in Peshawar city. His friends and colleagues believe he was kidnapped by Islamist vigilantes in an effort to impose Taliban-style values in NWFP. Despite not providing details on the kidnapping or reasons for quitting, the 38-year-old actor, who has starred in numerous theater and television plays, has started growing a beard for his new life after comedy. Reluctant to discuss his life-changing experience, Mujahid revealed to Reuters that he had joined Tablighi Jamaat, a Muslim missionary group, to spread religious teachings. He solemnly stated, "God has provided for me in the past and will continue to do so." Mujahid considered himself fortunate, as others who had run afoul of militant morality squads were not as lucky. In a horrific incident in January, a female dancer named Shabana was forcibly taken onto the street and shot in the heart of Mingora, a town in Swat, a valley around 130 km (80 miles) north of Islamabad, where militants hold significant power. Gunmen attempted to assassinate Pashtun singer Sardar Yousafzai in Dir district as he was returning home from performing at a wedding party in December. Although he managed to escape, his harmonium player, Anwar Gul, was killed and four others were injured in the attack. The environment for those involved in the entertainment industry in the region became hostile after Islamist parties gained power in NWFP, fueled by anti-American sentiments following the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. These disapproving parties prohibited music on public transportation and removed movie posters featuring women, while militants took even more extreme measures. Initially, music stores in tribal regions like Waziristan were bombed, and the attacks then expanded to other areas in the northwest as the influence of Islamist groups grew, moving closer to urban centers. In June, armed Taliban fighters moved through Peshawar, the capital of the province, in trucks, threatening music store owners to shut down their businesses or face consequences. This event caused alarm in Pakistan shortly after a civilian government took office, leading to security forces being instructed to take action. Since then, more tribal areas and districts in the NWFP have become hubs for militants. The military has carried out operations in regions like Bajaur and Mohmand. Although progress is being seen in certain areas, insecurity is escalating in others, including Peshawar. The defeat of Islamist parties in NWFP after an election last year brought optimism that the region would once again be a safe place for cultural activities. However, the secular Pashtun party currently in power has not been able to fulfill this promise, despite their good intentions. Syed Aqil Shah, who serves as the provincial minister for sports and culture, emphasized the importance of everyone taking a stand against militants. He stated that it is a misconception to believe that only the government is capable of addressing this issue, and that the entire population and civil society must also play a role in combating these threats. However, many individuals are fearful of the potential consequences, with numerous singers and musicians already fleeing the country and others making plans to do so in the future. "I am afraid to leave my house. Even when I do go out, my wife constantly calls to make sure I am safe," stated a singer who preferred to remain anonymous due to concerns about retaliation from militants. "We are extremely fearful, which is why I am considering moving abroad." Some individuals have chosen alternative methods to make a living and support their families in a safer manner. A musician, who now makes a living by selling fruits and vegetables, lamented that ninety percent of the music industry is no longer thriving. His harmonium sat beside him, covered in dust. | 2 |
Trump, a Republican, who has been accused by Democrats of fueling racial divisions, stated that Americans need to denounce racism, bigotry, and white supremacy following the killings of 22 people in El Paso, Texas. A 21-year-old white man has been charged with capital murder in connection with the shooting at a Walmart store. The police in El Paso mentioned a racist, anti-immigrant manifesto that was posted online before the shooting, which they linked to the suspect, Patrick Crusius. Trump did not address allegations that his own anti-immigrant and racially charged statements have contributed to an increase in racial tensions, nor did he advocate for comprehensive gun control measures. He emphasized the importance of defeating these harmful ideologies in his remarks at the White House. "America should not tolerate hate. Hatred distorts the mind, destroys the heart, and consumes the soul." Democrats criticized Trump for avoiding gun control laws and focusing on mental health and social media. Trump is scheduled to visit El Paso on Wednesday, according to Mayor Dee Margo. Beto O'Rourke, a former congressman and El Paso native running for the Democratic presidential nomination, suggested that Trump should not visit the city. O'Rourke tweeted on Monday that the president, who played a role in fueling the hatred that led to the tragic events on Saturday, should not visit El Paso. He emphasized the need for healing and unity instead of further division. Other Democratic candidates also held Trump responsible for the attack in Texas, pointing to his inflammatory comments about immigrants. Five Democrats attended the annual conference of UnidosUS in San Diego on Monday, the largest Hispanic advocacy group in the United States. Janet Murguia, the group's president, referred to Trump as the "radicalizer-in-chief." Joe Biden, the current leading Democratic candidate and former vice president under Barack Obama, focused on gun attacks in his speech, calling out Trump for fueling hatred with divisive rhetoric. Obama, who previously pushed for gun restrictions during his presidency, did not directly mention Trump but encouraged Americans to reject divisive language. Obama stated that we should firmly reject any language used by our leaders that promotes fear, hatred, or normalizes racist beliefs. Trump, during his presidential campaign, referred to Mexican immigrants as rapists and drug smugglers, and has described illegal border-crossings from Mexico as an "invasion," labeling the migrants as "very bad thugs and gang members." Among the 22 people killed at the El Paso Walmart were eight Mexican citizens, who were shot by a man who traveled 660 miles from his home in Allen, Texas. Shortly after, another gunman killed nine people in Dayton, Ohio, before being shot by police. The motive for the Dayton shooting was unclear. Kellyanne Conway, a White House adviser, confirmed on Fox News that President Trump would be traveling to both El Paso and Dayton, but did not provide a specific date for either visit. Concerns about gun violence and the threat of racist and white-supremacist ideologies have been heightened by mass shootings carried out by lone attackers in recent years. Trump, who has been criticized for not aggressively addressing domestic extremist groups, stated that he would instruct the US Justice Department to investigate domestic terrorism and would suggest legislation to ensure that those who commit hate crimes and mass murder could face the death penalty. He also emphasized the need for reforming mental health laws to identify individuals with mental health issues and for collaborating with social media companies to identify potential mass shooters. He stated that it is crucial to prevent individuals deemed dangerous to public safety from obtaining firearms and to have a swift legal process to remove those firearms if they do. This seems to be a reference to "red flag" laws. US Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican and supporter of Trump, mentioned that he has discussed with Trump a legislation he intends to propose in September alongside Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal. This legislation would allocate federal grant funds to states interested in implementing such laws. "Red flag" laws allow law enforcement to seize weapons from individuals deemed at risk of violent behavior. Trump, in a tweet earlier on Monday, called for "strong background checks" for gun purchasers, but he did not provide further details on the proposal, and it was not the main focus of his recent White House address. In his speech, he stated that it is mental illness and hatred that leads to gun violence, rather than the gun itself. This statement was quickly criticized, with Democratic candidate Amy Klobuchar accusing Trump of avoiding the discussion on gun control. Following a mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017, Trump suggested banning bump stocks, which allow semi-automatic weapons to function like machine guns. The ban was implemented in March, but Trump decided not to go through with significant changes to gun laws. On Twitter, Trump suggested bipartisan efforts to enhance background checks, possibly alongside immigration reform. However, Democrats, who have opposed Trump's immigration policies, did not agree with this connection. Lawmakers will not reconvene in Capitol Hill until September after the summer recess. The US House of Representatives, which is controlled by the Democratic party, has approved a bill that requires universal background checks for individuals purchasing firearms. Leading Democrats have requested Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell to call the Senate back into session to vote on the bill. However, McConnell has preferred bipartisan actions to address mass shootings, criticizing political tactics and speeches without specifically mentioning guns. | 2 |
Sisi, whose image can be seen all over Egypt on various items, instills fear in his opponents who worry about the return of military rule. However, many investors and Egyptians see him as a beacon of hope after years of political unrest following the Arab Spring. Despite his controversial removal of Egypt's first democratically-elected president, Mohamed Mursi, Sisi is seen as a stabilizing force. Investors believe that while the country may not be very democratic under his rule, their investments will be safer. Sisi's popularity makes him a likely candidate to win the upcoming presidential elections, but he will need to address the country's economic challenges. Known for his decisiveness, many Egyptians see Sisi as the leader who can bring stability and prosperity to the country. Western investors also see him as a strong and supported leader. Sterne stated that whatever it may be, it signifies stability. Egyptian industry and investment minister Mounir Fakhry Abdel Nour acknowledged that Western governments may be cautious of Sisi's transition from military attire to a president's suit, but he believes that investors will appreciate this change. He mentioned that in the West, the election of a former army officer as the leader of a developing country may evoke negative connotations of a dictator rather than a reformer. However, he emphasized the need for a strong leader in Egypt to maintain law and order, which is beneficial for investment and the economy. He made these remarks at the Cairo stock exchange, highlighting the importance of a strong leader in the country. Throughout history, generals who entered politics have had varying reputations, with George Washington being seen as a respected and skilled statesman. Former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet, who took power in 1973 after overthrowing an elected government, implemented economic reforms but was widely criticized for human rights abuses. Security forces cracked down on pro-Brotherhood activists in Egypt after President Mursi was ousted, leading to a decline in the Islamist movement. Despite challenges such as high debt and a weak currency, Egypt has received significant financial aid from Gulf allies, leading to improvements in infrastructure and economic stability. Foreign direct investment remains low, but there have been some recent investments from companies like Samsung and Coca-Cola. FDI amounted to $3 billion in the year ending June 2013, which was $1 billion less than the previous year when Egypt was facing turmoil. Before the 2011 revolution, Egypt was attracting around $8 billion in net FDI annually. With Egypt's stock market performing well and the global economy in a better state than during Mubarak's rule, Sisi is expected to have a more favorable investment environment. However, concerns have been raised about Sisi retaining officials and policies from the Mubarak era. The political transition in Egypt is expected to be completed in 2014, but there are fears that it may result in a diluted version of the pre-revolution regime, which could impact growth and financial vulnerabilities. Sisi has not provided many details on economic policy, other than acknowledging the challenging economic conditions in a recent speech. He raised the issue of fuel subsidies costing the government $15 billion annually, a fifth of the state budget, without providing a clear solution. These subsidies, in place for fifty years, use up foreign currency that could be used to pay debts and improve payment terms for investments. Investment minister Abdel Nour suggested that Sisi might use his popularity to make tough decisions to reform the economy and address fiscal issues. Arabtec, a Dubai company, signed a $40 billion deal to build homes in Egypt, indicating potential Gulf investment in the country's infrastructure. Gulf companies, often state-backed or family-run, may be more willing to invest in Egypt compared to Western firms due to their cohesive shareholder base. Western investors, concerned about violence, are more short-term focused, while Gulf investment has boosted confidence. The debate remains on whether an IMF loan with stringent budget reforms is the solution. Legal barriers, not international agreements, may be hindering Western companies from investing in Egypt. Moheb Malak, an economist based in Cairo at Prime Securities, stated that legislation is just as essential as subsidy reform, even though it is not receiving as much attention. A proposed investment law is aimed at preventing third parties from disputing contracts between the government and an investor, with the goal of attracting more investment. These clauses are meant to reassure investors who have been hesitant due to previous legal challenges to such agreements, which have left some companies in a state of legal uncertainty after being sold by the government. Malak emphasized that while Egypt may need a strong leader, it also needs to make significant improvements to its investment policy. | 2 |
On Wednesday, Israel expressed its willingness to make difficult compromises in order to achieve peace with the Palestinians, using an Arab proposal supported by Egypt and Jordan. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, in an article for the Guardian, emphasized the importance of approaching negotiations as a dialogue rather than a demand. Olmert acknowledged the potential for full normalization of relations between Israel and the Arab world and expressed readiness to engage in open and sincere discussions about the Arab peace initiative. He highlighted the need for a comprehensive peace process involving collaboration with Jordan, Egypt, and potentially other Arab nations, emphasizing the importance of a constructive and non-coercive approach to negotiations. His comments were released the day after the 40th anniversary of the Six Day War, in which Israel defeated Egypt, Jordan, and Syria in a week and gained control of several territories. The Arab peace plan, agreed upon in March, proposes normalizing relations with Israel in exchange for a Palestinian state and the return of land taken in the 1967 war. Despite Olmert's willingness to consider the Arab initiative, little progress has been made, and tensions between Israelis and Palestinians have increased, particularly due to violence in Gaza. A summit between Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, initially planned to discuss Palestinian statehood, was postponed at the Palestinians' request as several agreements needed to be finalized before talks could begin. In a column published alongside Olmert's, Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh stated that for Israel to truly seek peace, it must acknowledge the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people, including the right of refugees who were displaced in 1948 to return. Haniyeh emphasized that in the 1967 war, while Israel gained control of Palestinian land, it did not conquer the people. He pointed out that the aftermath of the 1967 war has led to ongoing conflicts and instability in the Middle East. Haniyeh called for Israel to withdraw from all territories occupied in 1967, dismantle settlements in the West Bank, release Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, and recognize the right of refugees to return in order for the climate to change and for true peace to be achieved. Haniyeh concluded that Israel must acknowledge these basic rights of the Palestinian people if it is serious about peace. Our determination to achieve freedom and reunite all our children in a fully independent state of Palestine, with Jerusalem as its capital, cannot be hindered. | 2 |
Major corporations such as Intel Corp and International Business Machines Corp have recently entered the solar power business, signaling a potential trend as big companies aim to profit from the increasing demand for clean energy sources. According to Rhone Resch, president of the Solar Energy Industries Association, these developments reflect the direction in which the solar industry is heading, with both technology and energy companies making moves into solar power. Solar power is still a small contributor to global energy consumption, but companies that produce solar panels are experiencing rapid growth due to increased concerns about climate change and higher prices for fossil fuels. Companies like SunPower Corp and Q-Cells AG have transformed from small start-ups into multibillion-dollar businesses in recent years. Now, other companies are looking to enter the growing solar market, with some tech companies like Applied Materials Inc and Cypress Semiconductor Corp recognizing the potential for growth in the industry. Kevin Genieser from Morgan Stanley's renewable energy investment banking practice believes that strategic players in the industry have the ability to bring large-scale manufacturing to the table. He expects to see increased merger and acquisition activity in the solar sector. Recently, Intel announced the spin-off of its solar technology into SpectraWatt Inc, while IBM partnered with Tokyo Ohka Kogyo Co Ltd to develop more efficient solar power technologies. SpectraWatt will begin shipping its solar cells next year with a $50 million investment from Intel. IBM and TOK plan to license their thin film solar technology in the next few years. Additionally, Robert Bosch GmbH recently announced the acquisition of German solar cell maker Ersol for 1.08 billion euros ($1.67 billion). Privately owned Bosch, the world's largest automotive supplier, recently announced its acquisition of Ersol. Additionally, Hewlett-Packard Co, the world's largest computer maker, revealed plans to license its clear transistor technology to a solar power company called Xtreme Energetics. These moves by corporate giants like Intel, IBM, and HP are seen as a validation of solar power's long-term potential, dispelling any notion that it is just a passing trend. SunPower's CEO, Tom Werner, also acknowledged that with major players like Intel and IBM entering the solar industry, solar power is being taken seriously by investors and other stakeholders. Werner stated that IBM and Intel will increase competition, but SunPower's established business gives them a significant edge. Werner mentioned in an interview that this will push SunPower to improve. Resch and Pichel also agreed that new competitors are unlikely to harm established players due to high demand for solar panels. Some people believe that the large companies entering the solar industry may be arriving too late. Ashok Kumar, an analyst at CRT Capital Group, stated that these companies may be tardy and not well-prepared, as many other companies have already established themselves in the market. | 2 |
An insulting term that was once associated with Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev in the 1970s and 1980s is now being increasingly used to describe Putin. Despite promises from the government, Russia has not yet developed a modern pension system, improved regulations for a competitive financial market like Dubai, or invested in its deteriorating infrastructure. The Russian government plans to spend $620 billion by 2020 on re-equipping the military, while cutting funds for infrastructure and education. This has caused frustration among business leaders who are in need of improvements to the outdated road network. Despite Putin's promises to reduce the economy's reliance on oil and gas exports, the oil price needed to balance the budget has more than doubled in the past five years to $110. In terms of foreign policy, Medvedev's much-publicized effort to improve relations with the United States has hit a roadblock. Instead of focusing on this initiative, Moscow has been at odds with the West over Syria and has placed a higher priority on establishing a free trade zone with former Soviet nations Belarus and Kazakhstan. Alexei Pushkov, head of the Duma's Foreign Affairs Committee, has stated that Russia aims to be an independent influence in its region and does not want to mimic the West. One of the most evident differences between Russia and the West is the treatment of Pussy Riot, a feminist punk band that protested in a Moscow cathedral with a song criticizing Putin. Three members were sentenced to two years in prison for "hooliganism motivated by religious hatred," with one later being released on probation. Putin stated that the women received a deserved punishment for their vulgar group sex performance, which he believed threatened Russia's moral values. Western governments and human rights groups were angered by the severe punishment given to Pussy Riot. However, some analysts believe the harsh treatment may reflect Kremlin's insecurity in the face of growing public discontent. Despite the decrease in street protests in Moscow, political experts suggest that the educated urban population is becoming more dissatisfied with Putin's leadership. Not too far from Putin's luxurious Novo-Ogaryovo residence with its ornate gates adorned with the double-headed Russian eagle, lies the unremarkable town of Krasnogorsk to the north of Moscow. In a bustling McDonald's restaurant within this town, a petite 30-year-old woman named Yekaterina Samutsevich passionately shared her thoughts on Russia's future under Putin as a snowstorm raged outside. According to the recently released Pussy Riot member, the current system is deteriorating and becoming increasingly oppressive. Those in power are driven by intense fears, leading to erratic behavior. Samutsevich warned of a potential collapse similar to that of the Soviet Union. It is yet to be determined if Putin's vision of a powerful, stable nation or the grim prediction of a young punk rocker will become reality. However, in the meantime, the people and business elite of Russia are expressing their opinions through their actions. Putin is not gaining support. | 2 |
The US Army is actively working to reduce its carbon footprint in order to save lives of soldiers in Iraq and make its operations more environmentally sustainable. The goal is to decrease Army emissions of carbon dioxide by 30 percent by 2015. Deputy assistant secretary Tad Davis is focused on determining the greenhouse gas emissions of the Army in the next few years. "We aim to decrease emissions while also reducing energy consumption from fossil fuels. The Army has been advocating for environmental sustainability at all of its bases, beginning with Fort Bragg in North Carolina in 2001," Davis explained. This involved reconfiguring the setup of training ranges, as Fort Bragg has historically featured mock towns and villages for combat training, each of which previously cost up to $400,000 to construct." Davis explained that now, instead of being made of traditional materials, they are constructed from recycled shipping containers the size of trucks, costing around $25,000. This not only helps keep the shipping containers out of the waste stream but also reduces the risk faced by convoys during the Iraq war. These convoys, stretching from Kuwait to the battlefield, were often targeted by improvised explosive devices (IEDs), with much of the cargo being fuel. Davis pointed out that by decreasing the amount of fuel needed on the front line, fewer vehicles would be required in the convoy, thus reducing the vulnerability of soldiers. He suggested using renewable energy sources like wind or solar power at forward operating bases instead of diesel generators to further decrease the need for risky supply convoys. A recent survey conducted on U.S. forward bases in Djibouti, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan revealed that a significant amount of power, approximately 85 percent, was being used for air conditioning. This was done not only to provide comfort for sleeping, but also to keep communications equipment cool. According to Davis, poorly insulated tents and temporary buildings are common in these areas, making it a challenge to keep them cool. One solution that was found was to use foam insulation sprayed directly on tents, which reduced energy loss by 45 percent. However, reducing greenhouse emissions from Army vehicles presents a different challenge, as making vehicles like the Humvee or Bradley fighting vehicle more lightweight to save fuel would also mean offering less protection for troops. However, Davis pointed out that there is potential for change with the advancement of technology in producing lighter armor. He believes that there may be a shift towards more hybrid vehicles in the military fleet. Davis also expressed doubt about the claim that the US military is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. While the exact numbers are uncertain, the Army has taken steps to track their carbon footprint, starting with an online program at Fort Carson in Colorado. The data shows that Fort Carson emits 205,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year, equivalent to a town of 25,000 people. The system created by Enviance, a California-based company, will eventually be implemented across all Army bases. It is currently being utilized by corporations and utilities in 45 countries to monitor adherence to environmental and safety laws, according to Enviance's president Lawrence Goldenhersh. | 2 |
I believe that the Oscars are losing popularity because the type of movies they were originally meant to highlight are becoming less common. The ideal Oscar nominee used to be a high-quality film that appealed to a wide audience of serious adults, with famous actors, beautiful cinematography, and a memorable soundtrack. These films were neither too niche nor too mainstream, but they catered to a broad range of viewers. In the past, Oscar races featured movies like "Titanic" competing against "L.A. Confidential" or "Saving Private Ryan" against "Shakespeare in Love," creating excitement for all moviegoers. This explains why this year's Academy Awards feel like they could be the end of an era, with changes made to the format in an attempt to recapture the magic of past ceremonies. With 10 best picture nominees this year, there is hope that the Oscars will once again showcase the type of films that made the awards show so special. "West Side Story" is being directed by Steven Spielberg in a modern take on the classic musical. "King Richard" features a powerful performance by Will Smith in a sports movie. "Dune" is an epic adaptation of a science-fiction classic. "Don't Look Up" stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence in a movie tackling important issues. "Drive My Car" is a three-hour Japanese film delving into the intricate relationship between a widowed actor and his young female chauffeur. Maybe the last nominee may cater to a smaller audience, but this year's nominees feature well-known actors, renowned directors, and classic Hollywood genres. Surprisingly, despite all of this, most of the nominees did not attract a large audience in theaters. When the nominees were revealed in February, nine out of ten had earned less than $40 million in domestic box office sales. The only outlier was "Dune," which just crossed the $100 million mark domestically, ranking as the 13th highest-grossing movie of 2021. Overall, the 10 nominees for best picture have collectively made only a quarter of the revenue generated by "Spider-Man: No Way Home" at the domestic box office. Despite Hollywood attempting to revive the old magic, it seems that audiences are no longer as interested. The impact of COVID-19 on the film industry, particularly affecting movies targeted at older viewers, cannot be ignored. If not for the challenges posed by the delta and omicron variants, films like "West Side Story" and "King Richard" may have performed better. Additionally, many of the best picture nominees were released simultaneously on streaming platforms and in theaters, with "Don't Look Up" finding success on Netflix after a limited theatrical release. This unusual crisis has accelerated a technological shift, prompting a reassessment of the current state of the industry. Certainly, while non-superhero-movie earnings at the box office are expected to recover in 2022 and next year's best picture contenders will likely see increased theatrical revenue, it is evident that we are witnessing more than just the decline of the Oscars. We are witnessing the end of the traditional concept of movies. This does not mean that films will cease to exist, but rather that they will continue to be part of the entertainment landscape alongside other forms of content in the industry. The era of movies as the primary American art form, a crucial element of American celebrity, and a significant space for actors and storytellers, appears to be coming to a close. The end of the dominance of the big screen has been predicted for a long time, starting with the spread of television, the invention of the VCR, the rise of cable TV, and Hollywood's romanticization of its own past. Despite the success of TV in the 1960s and '70s, it was seen as disposable compared to movies. The VHS tape changed the way people interacted with successful movies, providing a new revenue stream. However, the main focus remained on funding big-budget films, with direct-to-video entertainment seen as a minor league. The '80s and '90s marked the beginning of what we now know as prestige TV. If you wanted to achieve true fame and lasting recognition in the world of art, you still needed to showcase your work in movie theaters, where critics and audiences could react. Successful examples include Robert Altman and Bruce Willis, who made the transition from television to the big screen with great success. However, failures such as Shelley Long and David Caruso served as cautionary tales, illustrating that not everyone could succeed in the world of cinema. The late 1990s marked a time of transition in the industry, with advancements in computer-generated effects hinting at a new era of cinematic possibilities. Indie cinema helped to develop a new group of filmmakers. The year 1999 is often considered one of the best years for movies, with notable films such as "Fight Club," "The Sixth Sense," and "The Talented Mr. Ripley." This year saw a rise in Oscar viewership, with the success of "Titanic" in 1998 being seen as a victory for the film industry. For teenagers at that time, going to the movies was a significant experience, with memories of being turned away from R-rated films and the excitement of seeing movies like "Eyes Wide Shut" on opening weekend. The initiation process was not only about transitioning to adulthood, but also about learning a specific language that included watching certain movies like "Austin Powers" and "The Matrix" in order to socialize effectively in college. This led to movies losing their elevated status and becoming just another form of content. However, a positive outcome of this shift was the rise of high-quality television shows like those on HBO during the "Sopranos" era, which began to rival movies in terms of acting, writing, and directing. The other changes that occurred were somewhat unclear. Globalization expanded the market for Hollywood movies, but the worldwide audience pushed for a simpler style of storytelling that could be easily understood across different languages and cultures, with less complexity and cultural specifics. The internet, laptops, and iPhones personalized entertainment and made it more accessible, but also accustomed people to watching on smaller screens, alone, and in short intervals, which goes against the communal experience of watching a movie in a theater. Special effects allowed for visually stunning scenes and previously impossible stories to be brought to the big screen. However, the focus on effects in blockbuster films created a fandom culture that prioritized certain franchises over traditional cinematic elements. The shifts in Western culture towards a more teenage-oriented society have influenced Hollywood in two main ways. One direction is towards a focus on superhero movies and other popular franchises aimed at teenage audiences to maintain success in theaters. The other direction is towards creating a constant stream of content for home entertainment and streaming platforms, blurring the lines between traditional movies and TV serials. Due to the current pressures in society, many aspects of what movies used to do in American culture, even just two decades ago, are now difficult to imagine. The internet has taken over as the main platform for adult initiation, replacing the traditional movie theater. With the vast array of entertainment choices available and the repetitive nature of popular movies, it is challenging for a few successful films to serve as a common cultural reference point. The idea of a movie star being a transcendent or iconic figure is also becoming outdated, as actors often become famous only as temporary assets to a particular franchise, such as superhero series. The traditional genres that used to create a strong connection between actors and audiences, such as non-superhero action films, historical epics, comedies, and romantic comedies, have all seen a rapid decline. While serialized television shows can create a bond between viewers and a specific character, this bond does not easily transfer to other roles played by the actor, unlike the larger-than-life persona of movie stars. Male actors from TV's antihero era are often forever associated with their characters, like Tony Soprano, Walter White, Don Draper, and Al Swearengen. Recent female stars in TV shows, such as Jodie Comer in "Killing Eve" and Anya Taylor-Joy in "The Queen's Gambit," have not been able to bring their television audiences with them to their film projects. It is important to appreciate the current era for what it has brought, including the exceptional work of actors like Comer and Taylor-Joy in television. The abundance of content is remarkable, and serialized television dramas offer storytelling capabilities that even the longest movies cannot match. In our recent week of TV watching, my wife and I have been enjoying the basketball drama "Winning Time" and Amanda Seyfried's portrayal of Elizabeth Holmes in "The Dropout". Next week, we plan to watch the long-awaited third season of "Atlanta" by Donald Glover. While not all new content is as good, the quality of TV shows available now surpasses what was on cable 20 years ago. However, these productions are still different from movies in terms of cultural impact, star power, communal experience, and artistic elements. TV shows on smaller screens lack the grand scale and immersive qualities of movies, such as cinematography and sound editing, which are less significant when viewed at home. For example, films like "Dune," "West Side Story," and "Nightmare Alley" offer a different experience in theaters compared to watching them at home. In this way, it is appropriate that the Oscars this year are overlooking categories such as score, sound, and film editing, as more movies are now being created for streaming platforms, leading to a decrease in emphasis on audiovisual immersion. Additionally, the condensed storytelling format of serial television in our current era lacks the power that comes from telling a complete story in one go, without the security of multiple seasons or episodes to develop ideas. This is why the best movies feel more fulfilling than most long-form television shows, which often suffer from unnecessary seasons or episodes, ultimately hindering their potential greatness. Shows like "Lost" and "Game of Thrones" have suffered from not having a clear direction from the start. While a great movie may provide a self-contained experience for viewers to fully immerse themselves in, this does not diminish the artistic benefits of longer content. "The Sopranos" was able to achieve character development and psychology over its duration that a movie could not replicate, but "The Godfather" remains a more flawless work of art. With the rise of multiplatform content and the dominance of the small screen, fans of perfection should consider what to prioritize in a culture where superhero blockbusters and TV series reign supreme. Restoration and preservation are two key factors to consider. Restoration does not mean completely bringing back the landscape of 1998, but rather envisioning a world where older-style, mass-market movies that are not just comic-book blockbusters, become more financially viable and appealing to audiences. One potential factor that could contribute to this shift is the changing landscape of geopolitics, with China and Russia becoming less receptive to Western releases. This could lead to a resurgence of movies that focus more on a specifically American appeal, aiming to achieve success with smaller budgets rather than investing massive amounts in hopes of earning billions worldwide. The primary shift that could be more significant is in the movie theater experience, which currently focuses on showing numerous trailers and advertisements before feature films in order to maximize profits, making it less appealing for adults seeking a simple night out. One solution to this issue is the implementation of variable pricing by some theater chains, which could lead to a more customized experience for different types of movies. For example, if big-budget superhero films are drawing large crowds while smaller films like "West Side Story" struggle to attract viewers, why not make the "West Side Story" experience more accessible with lower ticket prices, fewer previews, and a more efficient trip to the theater? With many multiplexes facing low attendance, it's worth exploring if a more streamlined experience for non-blockbuster films could increase ticket sales. Because the success of individual movies like "West Side Story" does not have a significant impact on the Hollywood industry as a whole, movie enthusiasts need to also focus on preserving classic films. Similar to lovers of theater, opera, and ballet, they need to recognize that certain forms of aesthetic experiences must be actively supported and passed down to future generations. This includes encouraging and financially supporting the appreciation of older films, which may be overlooked in today's streaming-dominated culture where corporate interests prioritize new content. Another point to consider is the importance of integrating exposure to high-quality cinema into a well-rounded liberal arts education. Despite the current challenges facing liberal arts education, incorporating 20th-century cinema can serve as a valuable link for modern young people to connect with the traditional art forms that influenced the development of film. By prioritizing the finest examples of cinema, educational institutions can offer a more meaningful alternative to the superficial pursuit of relevance that often characterizes contemporary academic engagement with popular culture. Personally, one of my most influential experiences as a film enthusiast occurred during college when I watched "Blade Runner" and "When We Were Kings" in a darkened lecture hall as part of a course on heroism in ancient Greece. In 1998, I was still immersed in the dominant popular art form of American culture. Today, a student going through the same experience would be engaging with an art form that is no longer as prevalent. The same can be said for many other cultural experiences we would want that student to have, spanning from ancient texts like the "Iliad" and Aeschylus to Shakespeare, 19th-century novels, and beyond. While the decline of movies may be irreversible in terms of commerce and technology, there is still cultural vitality beyond this supposed demise. It is now up to us to determine the richness of cultural life moving forward. | 2 |
In November 2018, the Camp Fire, the most devastating wildfire ever seen in California, was moving quickly and producing a lot of smoke as it spread through the Sierra Nevada foothills. It only took a few hours for the fire to completely destroy the town of 26,000 people, leaving schools, businesses, and 11,000 homes in ruins. When Singer was told to evacuate, he initially thought it was a false alarm. However, as flames started to approach his property, he quickly left town just in time. Paradise had been completely destroyed. Eighty-five individuals perished, and over 90% of the population was forced to leave. Following this tragedy, around 4,000 residents have since returned to the devastated area to start anew and take their chances once more. Singer is one of those who have returned, but now he is reconsidering his decision. In this ecosystem covered in chaparral, rebuilding after a fire has long been a customary practice. However, with the state facing a severe climate crisis, including record-breaking wildfires and a devastating pandemic, the rebuilding process in California is taking on a new shape. In 2020, as millions of Californians were placed under a second lockdown due to a surge in COVID-19 cases, the state also saw over 4.2 million acres burned by nearly 10,000 fires. This has led to a division in the state, with Northern California dealing with multiple megafires while Southern California, particularly Los Angeles, is now the epicentre of the pandemic with the highest number of cases and deaths in the nation. California is currently facing a housing shortage and low interest rates which have led to record high home prices. The median cost of a single-family home in the state surpassed $700,000 in August and continued to rise in September. Despite the increasing cost of new homes, homeowners are facing even higher costs when it comes to rebuilding after a fire. The number of home rebuilds in California is decreasing due to factors such as contractor shortages, pressures on the rental market, and the escalating climate crisis. New construction permits in the state have been declining for the past two years, following a period of steady growth after the 2008 recession, as California grapples with an affordable-housing crisis. The number of new home construction permits in California reached 120,000 in 2018, then dropped to 110,000 in 2019. A home in Malibu was destroyed in a wildfire on December 30, 2020. With the state facing a severe climate crisis, including extreme temperatures and wildfires, the rebuilding process is evolving. The California Industry Research Board, which tracks construction and permit activity, is expected to release its 2020 numbers in February but estimates that only 103,670 housing units were issued last year. As California faces a severe climate crisis with soaring temperatures and devastating wildfires, the rebuilding process is evolving. The board does not monitor permits for fire-related losses, making it challenging to analyze the impact of wildfires on homebuilding. However, the decrease in rebuilds statewide, along with the rise in fires, indicates a growing trend of homeowners opting to move on rather than rebuild after a disaster. This shift raises an important question for the future. The shortage of contractors in the state is causing delays for homeowners trying to rebuild after disasters like the Camp Fire. Despite expectations of an increase in permits, there hasn't been much progress. Insurance companies often provide large payouts, but finding a contractor available to start rebuilding can take up to a year and a half. This has led to many homeowners abandoning their plans to rebuild. The only exception to this trend is in areas with highly valuable land, such as Malibu, where rebuilds are still proceeding steadily after the Woolsey Fire in 2018. The entire city was evacuated and 650 high-value homes, including those owned by celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Gerard Butler, and Robin Thicke, were destroyed. However, over a third of these homes now have permits to rebuild, compared to just over 10% in Paradise. Michael Nourmand, president of Nourmand & Associates, compared rebuilding after a fire to someone getting a shark bite but still surfing. Despite the challenges, most people in LA are planning to rebuild. California's strict fire-safe building codes implemented in 2008 require reinforced roofs, fire-resistant walls, and landscaping with non-flammable plants, making it easier for those with deep pockets to rebuild. In 2011, the state mandated that all single-family homes must have sprinkler systems installed. This requirement can add $20,000 or more to the costs for homeowners wanting to rebuild older homes. Those who opt to rebuild often have to find temporary housing in the rental market, further straining an already inflated housing market with high demand. This situation ultimately impacts the state's most vulnerable residents, leading to a 16% increase in homelessness in California in 2019, with over 150,000 residents now without homes. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is anticipated that those figures will increase. James Ryan, the president of Time for Homes, an organization committed to eradicating chronic homelessness, stated that when numerous homes are destroyed, residents are forced to relocate, resulting in higher rental prices and a decrease in affordable housing. Governor Gavin Newsom's eviction ban, designed to safeguard tenants from losing their homes due to pandemic-related challenges, will expire on February 1st. However, despite the moratorium, some reports suggest that evictions are increasing during the pandemic. Ryan mentioned that there are always individuals who fall through the cracks, leading to forced evictions and a growing number of people searching for alternative housing options. This situation is creating a housing shortage, resulting in a shift of population towards California's rural areas. For example, in El Dorado County, located east of Sacramento, sales increased by 28% in 2020, in contrast to a slight decline in Sacramento. However, the Inland Empire, consisting of Riverside and San Bernardino counties, is experiencing rapid growth and has not been as severely affected by large fires as other major metropolitan areas in California. The COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to an increase in this trend, with the median home prices in Riverside and San Bernardino counties being significantly lower than Orange County and Los Angeles County. Job growth in the Inland Empire is strong, making it an attractive option for families affected by fires looking to rebuild elsewhere. "It is also difficult to determine the exact reason for this trend. There has been a significant migration towards areas such as the Inland Empire, Joshua Tree, and Palm Springs. It is hard to say whether this is due to people wanting to avoid fire risk or simply seeking more affordable housing options. This trend has been ongoing since around 2010," Dunmoyer explained. However, not everyone can afford to move 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 a rented apartment in Chico, located around 20 miles away. They are dealing with various challenges such as insurance, zoning, construction, and planning as they work to rebuild their home. Additionally, they have established a nonprofit organization called Paradise Stronger, using their expertise in fitness coaching to provide mental health support to residents affected by the disaster. Originally, they were dedicated to participating in Paradise's comprehensive recovery plan, which involves rebuilding the entire city with more parks, green spaces, fire-safe landscaping, and improved evacuation routes and warning systems. However, the 2020 fire season introduced new terms like "megafires" and "hot drought," as well as the practice of preventive power shut-offs due to fire-whipping winds. In October, the Singers once again had to evacuate their property as a fire approached and had already caused significant damage. Singer, 43, stated that the area that was evacuated first during the recent incident was the exact location where their home would have been. He mentioned that all that could be seen was smoke, causing rampant PTSD. Singer explained that his wife expressed her reluctance to rebuild and questioned if that was still the place where she wanted to be. He mentioned that he is willing to stay and contribute to the town's vision, but not if it means sacrificing his marriage. The couple has decided to temporarily halt their rebuilding plans, which include constructing a smaller, fire-resistant home on their current property. This project is estimated to cost $250,000, with $100,000 coming out of their own pockets. They were given $145,000 for the building that caught fire; similar to almost 60% of American households, they discovered afterwards that their insurance coverage was insufficient. Some insurance companies have stopped offering policies in areas considered too risky: The California Department of Insurance reported in October that refusals to renew home insurance policies increased by 31% statewide in 2019, and by 61% in ZIP codes with a high fire risk. Some new developments have started implementing resilience measures into their construction plans in areas prone to wildfires. Rancho Mission Viejo in Southern California, the largest new community in the state located in Orange County, has been in development since 2001 on 23,000 acres of land. It will eventually have 14,000 homes (including 6,000 for residents over 55), with plans to preserve 75% of the open space. Fire resilience is a core principle in the construction of the community, which has implemented numerous wildfire prevention measures well in advance of state and local regulations. The Urban Land Institute recently recognized the community in a report, along with the town of Paradise, as a model for other communities impacted by wildfires. In Rancho Mission Viejo, each neighborhood is surrounded by a 110-foot-wide fuel modification zone, where flammable vegetation has been replaced with fire-resistant plants. Specific plant species are not allowed, and construction materials are noncombustible. Automatic fire sprinklers have been required in every home long before it became a state law in 2011. The additional cost of fire-safe modifications during construction has decreased significantly. Initially, these modifications were adding 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, explained that this decrease is due to fire-safe methods becoming more common. 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 playbook for achieving 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 gathered in the middle of the road, children rode their bikes, and diners enjoyed meals at bistro tables on the pavement. The coronavirus outbreak initially confined New Yorkers indoors, but eventually, it led them to venture outside for fresh air, exercise, dining, and relaxation, resulting in a spontaneous transformation of the city's streets throughout its five boroughs. City officials allocated 83 miles of roads for cyclists, runners, and pedestrians, allowed nearly 11,000 restaurants to extend onto sidewalks and streets, and permitted retailers to expand their storefronts. The community embraced the reclaimed space and is hesitant to relinquish it. Mayor Bill de Blasio has commended the initiatives, such as Open Streets, Open Restaurants, and Open Storefronts, as positive developments during a challenging period for the city. Once a skeptic, de Blasio now believes that some of the pandemic-era experiments in New York will become permanent fixtures in the city. The New York Times sought input from people who have utilized Open Streets to determine what changes they would like to see endure. Urban planner and architect Claire Weisz of WXY Studio was also consulted to provide a realistic but ambitious vision for the city's future. Three streets that were part of the Open Streets and Open Restaurants programs were highlighted as examples of possibilities for the entire city. While the Open Restaurants program has been made permanent, the future of Open Streets remains uncertain. Vanderbilt Avenue in Prospect Heights, 34th Avenue in Jackson Heights, and Avenue B on the Lower East Side were selected as representative of different neighborhoods in the city. The vision for Vanderbilt Avenue includes expanding the existing median with curves to slow down traffic and building a performance stage to attract visitors. On Halloween morning, a resident was seen taking photos of her dog on Vanderbilt Avenue, indicating the potential for the street to become a popular destination. Monty had on a denim jacket and a bright pink mohawk. Rosen, 40, felt like she had been transported to another place for a moment. She compared the scene to squares in Europe. Vanderbilt Avenue in Prospect Heights became a vibrant gathering spot until Thanksgiving. The street was closed off to cars and transformed by volunteers every Saturday morning. Residents expressed a desire for more benches, clearer bike lanes, and the ability to have a say in the street's future. Some suggested turning Vanderbilt into an events space with a stage for performances. One idea proposed was to extend and expand the median to create a small park with public bathrooms, which are lacking across the city. Medians could serve as loading and unloading areas for deliveries, and new bike lanes could be added next to the median to accommodate fast bicyclists, commuters, and delivery workers, as well as a separate lane for leisurely riders. Copenhagen, a cycling-friendly city in Denmark, has implemented this model with success, featuring nine supercycle highways throughout the city and metropolitan area. In Queens, 34th Avenue could potentially be transformed into a pedestrian promenade by expanding the existing median to include features such as a workout area and gardens, while moving the bike lane away from traffic. Laurie Gold, a resident who frequently walks her dog along 34th Avenue, appreciates the open streets portion and enjoys the bustling atmosphere with people running, walking, or biking day and night. The avenue has become a popular destination for families during the pandemic. Neighbors gather to talk, parents stroll with strollers, and children play with basketballs and bikes. Eight-year-old Ashley Cedeno enjoys games like tag and hide-and-seek on the street. Travers Park, a 2-acre playground surrounded by buildings and schools, serves as a central meeting spot in the area. Some residents wish for more commercial activities like fairs and food trucks, while others desire street festivals. Edwin Cordero, who has lost weight walking his dog, believes there should be more options available on 34th Avenue. According to Weisz, the street has potential for various opportunities. The road measures about 55 feet wide from curb to curb, providing enough space to extend the median to the sidewalk on one side and create a one-way road on the other side. This extension would create a larger area for pedestrians and more greenery. Moving the bike lane next to the sidewalk, rather than between the road and parked cars, would be safer to prevent accidents with opening car doors. Travers Park could be a focal point for adding public bathrooms, vendors, and a workout area. New York could draw inspiration from Tokyo Toilet restrooms in Shibuya, which are architecturally appealing and wheelchair-accessible. Many residents believe that Avenue B near Tompkins Square Park could be made more inviting to pedestrians by converting it into a one-way street, allowing for more greenery and public bathrooms. Residents also suggest adding more trees and plants along the sidewalks and creating a larger playground area for schools by converting Avenue B into a permanent open street. The park is surrounded by fences, with paved entryways and benches along the paths. Trees and shrubs are protected by fencing within the park. Weisz mentioned that the fences were originally put up due to concerns about farm animals entering the park, and later became a security measure in the 1970s. She suggested removing the fences to create a more open and accessible park, similar to those in Barcelona, Spain. Making Avenue B a one-way street with car-free areas could also improve safety and allow for additional amenities like public bathrooms. Weisz commented that Avenue B would be improved by the addition of bike lanes and designated spaces for deliveries, creating a shared street environment. | 2 |
Egyptians will participate in a referendum on Saturday to vote on constitutional changes aimed at enabling free and fair elections. The reform movement that led to the downfall of Hosni Mubarak is divided over whether these amendments are sufficient or if more extensive changes are necessary. The Muslim Brotherhood supports the amendments, while secular groups and prominent reform advocates like Mohamed ElBaradei and Amr Moussa are against them. The military council, which took power after Mubarak's resignation, hopes the amendments will pass so they can proceed with their plan for parliamentary and presidential elections. Ahmed Saleh, who is currently overseeing 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 participate in voting, and a sense of change is evident. The military council, which took power from Mubarak on Feb. 11, emphasized the importance of a high voter turnout for the referendum. The council's main objective is to create a favorable environment for future parliamentary and presidential elections. The council also highlighted the need for Egyptians to actively participate and express their opinions. A judicial committee has been tasked with drafting amendments for the referendum, including a two-term limit on the presidency, limiting a leader to serving eight years in the office that Mubarak held for thirty years. Rejecting the proposed amendments will result in the council needing to reconsider its approach and extending a transitional period that it hopes to keep brief. However, these reforms do not meet the expectations of reformists who are calling for a complete overhaul of the constitution. Youth groups leading protests against Mubarak view the amendments as an attempt to undermine the revolution. There are concerns about the military's tight election schedule, as it may not allow parties enough time to recover from years of repression, potentially benefiting the Muslim Brotherhood and remnants of Mubarak's regime. General Ismail Etman, a member of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, stated that amending the constitution may not be the most ideal solution but is the best option available. He stated in an interview with Al Gomhuria newspaper that if the amendments are approved, new laws would be introduced that would allow for more political freedom, such as lifting restrictions on forming political parties. The media has been filled with discussions on how to vote, with the "No" campaign placing a full-page advertisement in Al Masry Al Youm newspaper on Friday. The advert featured objections from various individuals, including actors, politicians, religious figures, and businessmen, who are urging voters to reject the amendments due to lack of time and information. A Muslim Brotherhood leader expressed the opposing view on the next page, stating that supporting the constitutional amendments is a crucial step towards fulfilling the demands of the revolution. He also mentioned that those who reject the amendments have not presented a clear alternative. With up to 45 million eligible voters in Egypt, a high turnout is expected from a population that is used to elections tainted by violence and fraud during Mubarak's rule. One voter, Ahmed Adel, expressed his intention to vote, believing that his vote will have a significant impact. He plans to vote 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 hosting workshops nationwide to educate citizens on the fact that constitutional amendments alone are insufficient. | 2 |
Palep's 9-year-old daughter, Aviana Campello-Palep, has a confident and open attitude towards discussing periods, in contrast to her friends who may feel self-conscious. This has inspired Palep and her daughters to create Girls With Big Dreams, a line of undergarments for tweens including reusable period underwear. The brand will launch in February with the goal of normalizing period talk and providing environmentally friendly options. The Campello-Palep girls represent a shift in attitudes towards periods, with younger generations being more open and environmentally conscious. The coming together of the two ideals could indicate a shift in how young people are approaching menstruation culturally. There are now more options for reusable period products such as absorbent underwear, menstrual cups, cloth pads, panty liners, and applicator-free tampons on the market than ever before, some specifically designed for teenagers and pre-teens. Michela Bedard, executive director of Period Inc., a global nonprofit focused on providing access to period supplies and eliminating period stigma, stated that this entire movement is driven by youth. Young people who menstruate are now managing their periods with reusables throughout their lives, resulting in a completely different experience. Reusable products make up only a small portion of menstruation supplies purchased in the United States, as Americans spend $1.8 billion on pads and $1 billion on tampons annually, which is much more than the sales of all other products combined. However, forecasters predict that the market share for reusable products will increase over the next decade, largely due to the growing acceptance and availability of menstrual cups in Western countries. The average person who menstruates can go through thousands of tampons in their lifetime, which can take about 500 years to decompose according to a 2021 report from the United Nations Environment Programme. Members of Gen Z, who are more likely to be involved in climate change and sustainability efforts, are educating their parents on more open and sustainable ways to manage their monthly cycle. Dr. Cara Natterson, a pediatrician and author, no longer has conversations about hiding menstrual products because young people are questioning the need to do so. Natterson's daughter has introduced her to new menstrual products from social media influencers and #PeriodTok videos. “She mentioned that teenagers are interested in hearing about people’s personal experiences rather than just reading five-star Amazon reviews. Natterson recently thought about trying cloth pads again after her teenage daughter suggested it, despite a previous unsuccessful attempt. According to Lara Freidenfelds, a historian, homemade menstrual rags were commonly used until Kotex introduced the first mass-marketed pad in 1921, emphasizing disposability as a symbol of modernity and success.” In the 1970s, discussions about sustainability in menstrual care began with the use of cloth pads and sponges. According to one source, there were always young people who were idealistic and concerned about these issues but found the available products to be impractical. Sustainability has often been overlooked in favor of convenience. Today, parents of Gen Zers have access to improved menstrual technology, such as more advanced cloth pads and highly absorbent period underwear. New menstruators now have the option to receive guidance and products from their parents that can help reduce the large number of disposable menstrual products that end up in landfills each year in America. Nadya Okamoto, a former executive director of Period Inc. and co-founder of the sustainable menstrual products brand August, is intrigued by the prospect of the world that will exist when progressive Gen Zers become parents in 20 years. Despite cultural shifts and technological advances, there are still obstacles hindering the widespread use of reusable or recyclable products. Anaya Balaji, 13, notes that disposable pads are the most readily available option for those getting their period for the first time, with Always being a common brand found in school bathrooms. Anaya, who is an online community leader for the Inner Cycle, connects with her peers on social media to promote education and awareness about sustainable menstrual products. She stated that it is possible to find products that suit your body, work well for you, and are also beneficial for the environment. However, there are some young individuals who cannot afford reusable products, particularly in communities where period poverty is prevalent. Despite the fact that investing in a $25 pair of underwear or a $60 cup could ultimately save money, many people do not have the funds to make that investment every month. Reusable and recyclable products, like disposable ones, are also subject to a "tampon tax" in numerous states. Activists believe that such taxes are discriminatory and have been working to repeal them nationwide through legislative means. In 2021, some states like Louisiana, Maine, and Vermont eliminated the tax on menstrual products. Despite efforts by young people to normalize periods, the cultural stigma surrounding menstruation continues to persist. Patriarchal taboos related to virginity, purity, and cleanliness in various cultures and religions discourage open discussion and may hinder the use of internal menstrual products like tampons or cups. Corporate messaging often focuses on discretion and cleanliness, reinforcing the idea that periods are dirty or shameful. Menstrual activist Chella Quint believes that the disposable menstrual product industry has played a significant role in perpetuating negative taboos. Menstrual health is seen as a public health issue by experts like Natterson, who emphasizes that it is not specific to any one gender. To challenge the stigmas surrounding menstruation, it is important for everyone to be able to openly discuss periods, even if they do not experience them. Natterson emphasized the importance of teaching her son to be considerate towards others by being prepared to offer assistance to classmates in need of period products. She believes that promoting respect for others' bodies is a conversation that everyone should be involved in. | 2 |
Between 1990 and 2014, the amount of land used for growing wine grapes in the Paso Robles region increased nearly fivefold to 37,408 acres, as winemakers realized that the area's unique topography, soil, and climate were ideal for producing flavorful red wines. Wines from Paso Robles have gained international recognition, competing with more well-known regions like Napa and Sonoma. In 2010, a red blend from Saxum Vineyards in Paso Robles was named the "wine of the year" by Wine Spectator magazine. However, the recent drought in California has had a severe impact on the region, leading to lower grape yields and the depletion of the aquifer that many vineyards and residents rely on for water. Wells in the area are running dry, affecting both residential and agricultural water supplies. Some large wineries and growers in Paso Robles have been drilling deeper wells, causing tensions and raising concerns about the sustainability of the wine industry in the area. Unlike other states, California's rules allow property owners to freely extract groundwater, leading to issues of overuse. One resident, Cam Berlogar, expressed frustration about the situation, noting that water is being depleted rapidly. Richard Sauret, known for his water conservation practices in his Paso Robles vineyard, expressed concern about relying on the aquifer for irrigation despite using very little water. The moratorium on new water-dependent projects in San Luis Obispo County, implemented in response to the crisis in 2013, did not prevent existing projects like Sauret's from expanding. Sauret believes that the high demand for water is causing issues for farmers, who will soon have to adapt to using less water. Change is on the horizon as California Governor Jerry Brown signed bills last year that mandate groundwater-dependent areas to create water sustainability agencies by 2017. These agencies will have several years to develop and implement water management plans. Some residents in Paso Robles are concerned about the potential effects of 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, expressed worry that if the issue is not managed within the next 10 years, it could become irreversible. She hopes to avoid having to follow her family's history of starting over after losing everything during the Dust Bowl. A water fight is brewing among residents in Paso Robles, California as they disagree on how to address the crisis. County supervisors have voted 3-to-2 to create a new water district with an elected nine-member board, but concerns have been raised about well-funded newcomers influencing board members to benefit larger players at the expense of local landowners. Susan Harvey, president of North County Watch, has criticized the proposed district's model as "we pay, they pump." The community is worried about wealthy newcomers with political connections, such as Harvard University and the Resnick family, who have made significant investments in land in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. The Resnicks purchased Justin Vineyards & Winery in 2010, and the company is now transitioning to more water-efficient farming practices. Fifth-generation farmer Cindy Steinbeck is part of a group called Protect Our Water Rights (POWR) and is wary of a new water agency in the region. Her organization is encouraging property owners to participate in a quiet title action in order to protect their water rights, and prefers the courts to oversee any water management plan for the basin. Steinbeck stated that their goal is to prevent small family farmers from being displaced in Paso Robles, as they are facing off against larger entities. This region will serve as a crucial example for other groundwater basins under stress, according to Jay Famiglietti, a senior water scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The Paso Robles Agricultural Alliance for Groundwater Solutions (PRAAGS) has been instrumental in driving this initiative, with board members including representatives from J Lohr Vineyards & Wines and individuals with ties to Harvard's property interests in the area. Additional supporters from different districts are Justin Vineyards and County Supervisor Frank Mecham, who supported the creation of the new agency. Mecham acknowledges the concerns of residents but also recognizes the importance of water management. He shared that his great-great-grandfather lost his cattle ranch due to a drought in the area, emphasizing the necessity of managing water resources. Mecham stated, "You will be managed one way or another. You’ve got to pick your poison," highlighting the inevitability of water management decisions. Richard Sauret strolls through his vineyard in Paso Robles, California on April 20, 2015, where he mentioned that he uses minimal water for irrigation. He also showcases the irrigation system he uses in his vineyard that requires very little water. This information was reported by Reuters. | 2 |
Biden has selected Tom Vilsack, who previously served as the secretary of agriculture under former President Barack Obama, to lead the department again. Vilsack, a former governor of Iowa, is the seventh member of Biden's Cabinet. If confirmed, Marcia Fudge would join other diverse nominees such as Lloyd Austin and Xavier Becerra in fulfilling Biden's commitment to diversity in his administration. However, Biden is facing pressure from various groups with differing opinions on how to fulfill this promise. The selection process for key positions has been a complex task for Biden and his team as they aim to find qualified candidates who also contribute to creating a diverse administration that contrasts with Trump's administration. Rep. James Clyburn and other allies of Fudge had advocated for her appointment to the Agriculture Department to address hunger issues. Biden ultimately chose Vilsack, who is white and from a significant rural farming state, instead of Fudge for HUD, which some advocacy groups see as a more traditional role for a Black secretary. This decision may disappoint those who supported Fudge, including members of the Congressional Black Caucus, of which she was a former chairwoman. Ben Carson, the current housing secretary, is also Black. Following Biden's historic selection of Austin for defense secretary, a group of Black civil rights activists called for a Black attorney general and a greater emphasis on civil rights. Biden had promised to address criminal justice, police reform, and mass incarceration if elected. In an interview before a meeting with Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, civil rights leader and talk show host Al Sharpton mentioned that Biden had flown to Houston to meet with him before he delivered the eulogy for George Floyd, making specific commitments. Sharpton emphasized the importance of keeping promises. Biden is considering several candidates for the position of leading the Justice Department, including Sen. Doug Jones, Sally Yates, and Judge Merrick Garland. Jeh Johnson, a Black individual who served as Obama's secretary of homeland security, has removed himself from consideration for the position of attorney general. During an interview with CNN, Biden acknowledged that advocacy groups are continually pushing for their demands, which he sees as part of their job. He defended his Cabinet selections as the most diverse in American history. However, advocates are not taking any chances, as seen during a meeting with civil rights leaders, including Sharpton, that lasted nearly two hours. Sharpton emphasized the importance of appointing an attorney general with a civil rights background to combat the previous administration's racism and bigotry. Johnson of the NAACP urged Biden to establish a civil rights envoy position in the West Wing, similar to the climate envoy role given to John Kerry. "We feel that there should be a national adviser on racial justice similar to what is being proposed. During the Democratic primary, Biden benefited from Sharpton's decision to remain neutral instead of endorsing Sen. Bernie Sanders. In the general election, Harris received support from Sharpton advocating for a Black woman to be on the ticket, rather than endorsing Stacey Abrams as planned. This has given Sharpton some influence with the Biden-Harris transition team as they select individuals for the administration. Additionally, a group of over 1,000 prominent Black women signed a letter to Biden expressing concern over the lack of Black women being considered for top positions in his administration and urging him to improve in this regard." The women in the letter emphasized the need to recognize and consider the accomplished leadership of Black women in significant policy areas that impact the nation for positions in the administration's Cabinet. Fudge, who had campaigned for the agriculture secretary position, expressed willingness to help the president in any way possible after being selected for HUD. She had considered challenging Speaker Pelosi in the past but ultimately endorsed her after being assured of a role in safeguarding voting rights and representation for Black women in Congress. Fudge will now leave her current position to lead the nation's housing agency. The departure of Marcia Fudge will contribute to the challenge of preserving the Democratic Party's narrow majority in the House, which has decreased significantly since the November elections. Biden's choice of Cedric Richmond as a senior adviser in the White House has already created a need for the party to defend Richmond's seat. Additionally, Biden's selection of Fudge for his Cabinet means that Democrats will now have to win another special election to fill her seat. | 2 |
At New York's Del Posto, customers have the option to split a $130 dish of wild branzino fish with roasted fennel and peperonata concentrato, as well as a $3,600 bottle of Dom Perignon. However, they are not allowed to split a bottle of Perrier or San Pellegrino water. The Italian restaurant, which has the support of celebrities Mario Batali and Joseph Bastianich, is one of many establishments choosing not to serve bottled water, following the lead of San Francisco and New York state. Bastianich, who is gradually eliminating bottled water from his restaurant empire, including locations in Los Angeles, stated, "The argument for local water is compelling and obvious. It's about transportation, packaging, the absurdity of moving water all over the world." Beverage companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Nestle, and SABMiller are increasingly aware of the potential negative impact of consumer environmental concerns on their bottled water sales. With water becoming scarcer, there is a fear that prices could rise significantly, prompting these companies to take measures to ensure access to water and improve their public image. Some experts compare water to oil in terms of value, stressing the importance of addressing climate change and population growth to protect water supplies. While some investors like Steve Dixon are confident in the overall availability of water, they acknowledge the significance of consumer perceptions and the need to address them. Brooke Barton, who manages corporate accountability for Ceres, a network focused on sustainability challenges, stated that approximately one-third of the global population currently resides in regions experiencing water stress. She predicts that by 2025, this number will increase to about two-thirds. Andy Wales, the head of sustainable development at SABMiller, a brewing company that consumed 94.5 billion liters of water in its most recent fiscal year, emphasized the importance of monitoring water costs as they are expected to rise significantly in the future. This equates to 4.5 liters of water for every liter of beer produced. Despite water and energy accounting for only 5 percent of costs, they are overshadowed by expenses such as brewing ingredients, bottling materials, and labor. The brewer mentioned that water costs at a plant in Bogota, Colombia are increasing by 12 percent annually due to soil erosion caused by cattle grazing upstream leading to deforestation. New water pricing strategies are being introduced, such as the European Union's Water Framework Directive which will impose a tax on water starting in 2010 to promote more sustainable usage. Agriculture uses 70 percent of the world's water supply, while industry utilizes 20 percent. Any industry that depends on agriculture, including those producing meat and jeans, faces challenges beyond just their own water usage. Companies like SABMiller, along with Coke and Pepsi, are now analyzing their "water footprints" to understand the impact of water used in their supply chain, such as for growing barley and hops. SABMiller, with 139 breweries worldwide, can use anywhere from 40 to 155 liters of water for a liter of beer, depending on the region. By applying the lower ratio as an estimate, SABMiller's total water usage last year was approximately 8.4 trillion liters, more than double the water used by Iceland in 2004. Wales stated that in the long term, they view it as a risk. Multinational drink companies are taking steps to improve their reputation by setting water conservation targets, building community wells, and implementing more efficient factories. They are also working with locals on sustainable farming, water harvesting, reforestation, and exploring new technologies to reduce water consumption. Coke's managing director of global water stewardship, Greg Koch, emphasized the importance of playing a role in water sustainability for businesses directly linked to water. While nonalcoholic drink makers only use a small percentage of groundwater in the United States, their visibility as water users puts them at the forefront of the water resources issue, according to Nestle Waters North America's CEO, Kim Jeffery. 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 begun studying the area's resources, but Jeffery believes the project may never come to fruition due to changing economics and hesitancy from both sides. Tom Pirko of Bevmark LLC emphasized the importance of companies aligning with consumer attitudes on such issues, citing Coca-Cola's experience in Kerala, India where a drought led to the closure of their bottling plant. Coke denied that its plant caused the shortages, but backlash still occurred worldwide. Students in Britain and North America called for boycotts. Smith College in Massachusetts even ended a long-standing relationship with Coke by not allowing them to bid for their soft drink contract. Koch stated that they lost the social license to operate. Environmental and community groups are continuing to push for Coke to leave other villages in India. | 2 |
More than three-quarters of those surveyed in India believe that the lack of employment opportunities is the country's biggest issue, a sentiment that has remained consistent throughout Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. The survey, released on Monday, also highlighted concerns about terrorism and Pakistan, with a majority of Indians viewing Pakistan as a threat and believing that terrorism has worsened. Despite these worries, the majority of Indian adults are content with the direction of their country and the economic prospects for future generations, according to Pew's survey. Additionally, over half of those polled expressed satisfaction with the functioning of democracy in India. Satisfaction with Indian democracy has decreased by 25 percentage points since 2017, with 79 percent approving at that time. Men are more likely than women to support Indian democracy, and one in five women choose not to give an opinion. The Pew Survey, conducted from May 23 to July 23, 2018, included 2,521 respondents in the final year of Modi's term before the election, with about 900 million eligible voters. Modi is currently the frontrunner in the upcoming election starting 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 to national security, benefiting Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party. Critics have alleged that the BJP is instilling fear within India's Muslim community through its promotion of a Hindu-first agenda and its targeting of them for the slaughter of sacred cows. There have also been questions raised about the party's loyalty to India. The BJP refutes these allegations, stating that it does not show bias and opposes the appeasement of any particular community. Muslims account for approximately 14 percent of India's 1.3 billion population. | 2 |
During his annual speech to the United Nations, Trump criticized Iran's government, praised North Korea, and emphasized his commitment to rejecting globalism and protecting American interests. The majority of his address focused on Iran, which the US accuses of seeking nuclear weapons and fueling instability in the Middle East by supporting militant groups in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. Trump stated that Iran's leaders create chaos and do not respect the sovereignty of other nations. In response, Rouhani criticized Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran. He stated that he did not want to take a photo with Trump and implied that the US president's withdrawal from global organizations was a flaw in his character. He claimed that rejecting multilateralism showed a lack of intelligence and understanding of the complexities of the world. Trump's speech was not well-received by many world leaders who are not supportive of his isolationist views, which have caused tension in US relationships with longstanding allies. Despite his calm delivery, his speech strongly emphasized his "America First" agenda. He has caused chaos in the international community by pulling the United States out of the nuclear deal and the Paris climate accord, and has warned NATO nations about not contributing enough for their defense. Trump stated that America will not give up its sovereignty to a global bureaucracy, emphasizing patriotism over globalism. In addition to criticizing Iran and China, he did not address Russia's involvement in Syria's conflict or its alleged interference in US elections. Rouhani delivered a defiant speech at the world body, stating that Iran's stance is clear: they want no war, sanctions, threats, or bullying, and will abide by the law and fulfill their obligations. Macron offered a different perspective, warning against survival of the fittest, protectionism, and isolationism, which he believes will escalate tensions. He defended multilateralism and collective action, arguing that nationalism will lead to failure and global wars if basic principles are not upheld. Macron expressed his refusal to see multilateralism erode and history unravel, raising his voice at times during his address to the assembly. Macron pointed out that our children are observing the actions of world leaders, referencing Iran as an example of how unilateralism can result in conflicts. Trump boasted about his economic achievements during his time in office, comparing himself favorably to past US presidents, which elicited some surprise laughter from the audience. Trump responded to the reaction by saying he didn't anticipate it but was fine with it. Trump tried to create division between Iran's leaders and its people following a deadly attack on a military parade. He stated that he would not engage with the Iranians unless they changed their behavior, and emphasized that economic pressure on Iran would continue. Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, criticized the 2015 nuclear accord and issued a warning to the leaders in Tehran, threatening consequences if they continued to harm American interests. In May, President Trump, a Republican, decided to pull the United States out of an agreement aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear activities in return for lifting sanctions. The deal had been made with the participation of France, Britain, Germany, Russia, China, and the European Union. The relationship between Washington and Tehran, traditional enemies, has deteriorated significantly since May. The agreement with Iran, a member of OPEC, had been reached during the presidency of Democrat Barack Obama. Trump announced that additional sanctions would be reintroduced on November 5th, with further measures to come, and that efforts were being made to convince countries that buy Iranian oil to reduce their purchases significantly. He mentioned that the United States would assist in forming a regional strategic partnership between Gulf countries, Jordan, and Egypt to counter Iran. Trump drew a comparison between US relations with Iran and the improved relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, with whom Trump had a meeting in Singapore in June in an effort to convince Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons. During his speech at the UN last year, Trump insulted Kim as a "rocket man" focused on nuclear destruction. However, Trump has now praised 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 towards arranging a second summit. Trump has stated that sanctions against North Korea will stay in place for the time being. In a strong statement directed at OPEC nations, Trump urged them to cease increasing oil prices and to shoulder the costs of their own defense. He warned that US aid would only be provided to nations that are allies of the United States. Anwar Gargash, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, argued 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. Crude oil prices reached a four-year peak on Tuesday due to upcoming US sanctions on Iranian crude exports and the hesitancy of OPEC and Russia to increase output to counterbalance the potential impact on global supply. | 2 |
Dr. Huq, the director of ICCCAD, has been ranked 208th on Reuters' Hot List on Earth Day, April 20. He is the only Bangladeshi scientist to receive this recognition. The ranking highlights Dr. Huq's and IUB's continuous efforts to position Bangladesh as a key player in global climate change knowledge. The list, which identifies the world's 1,000 most influential climate scientists, is based on research papers, citations, and references. Dr. Huq is known for his expertise in climate change adaptation in vulnerable developing countries and has contributed to several IPCC assessment reports. He also provides guidance to the least developed countries within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Recently, under his leadership, ICCCAD at IUB secured a six-year project from Norway Higher Education through NORAD focusing on "Co-creating knowledge for local adaptation to climate change in the LDCs" in collaboration with four other partners - the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Pokhara University in Nepal, the University of Eduardo Mondlane in Mozambique, and Makarere University in Uganda. The project proposal was submitted as part of the LDC Universities' Consortium on Climate Change (LUCCC), which has become an official program for the 47 LDC governments. IUB is one of the founding members of LUCCC. | 2 |
Environmental activists are reconstructing a model of Noah's Ark on Mount Ararat as a warning to humanity to take action against global warming. The initiative is aimed at world leaders who are responsible for the climate crisis and aims to serve as a memorial and warning sign to urge immediate action before it is too late. The wooden vessel is set to be completed by the end of May to coincide with a summit on climate change in Germany. The IPCC has cautioned that carbon dioxide emissions need to be reduced by 50% by 2050 to prevent dangerous climate changes, according to the European Union. The primary concern of climate change is the rising sea levels, with the UN predicting an increase of 18-59 cms this century, compared to 17 cms in the previous century. However, there are differing opinions on how to address this issue, with Germany advocating for G8 countries to endorse the IPCC target and use carbon trading to penalize greenhouse gas emissions. US chief climate negotiator Harlan Watson stated that the United States will not accept emissions targets or cap-and-trade schemes, and instead will combat climate change through the funding of clean energy technologies. The Biblical story of Noah's Ark involves God punishing humanity's sins by causing a flood that destroys life on Earth. Noah, considered righteous, is chosen to save his family and pairs of all the world's animals on an ark. The biblical ark was much larger than the model ark commonly depicted, measuring 300 cubits or about 140 meters in length. The model, which may eventually become a mountain hut, is a tight fit for climbers. Timber for the boat was transported up the mountain by horse last week, and volunteers are facing logistical challenges due to working at high altitude in a remote location. They are racing against the clock to prepare for a ceremony on May 31, during which 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 about completing the project in the given timeframe, German carpenter Rainer Brumshagen believed it was possible. The positive atmosphere created by people from various countries working together feels great, despite the political conflicts that seem far removed from the peaceful setting of Mount Ararat. Shepherds grazing their sheep and swallows circling the activists' tents add to the idyllic scene, but one carpenter expresses doubt about the model Ark's seaworthiness. | 2 |
He introduced himself as a Syrian refugee, struggling with broken English. Claiming to have traveled half the continent on foot and lost his papers, officers took his photograph and fingerprints. In the following year, he would receive shelter, an asylum hearing, and monthly benefits. He went by the name David Benjamin. He was actually a lieutenant in the German army, but prosecutors claim he disguised himself as a refugee in a far-right plot to carry out assassinations and create civil unrest in Germany. The officer, known as Franco A in court documents, denies these allegations. He claims he was attempting to reveal weaknesses in the asylum process. However, his complex deception, spanning 16 months, was exposed when police apprehended him trying to retrieve a loaded gun hidden in a Vienna airport restroom. Aydan Ozoguz, a politician overseeing refugees and integration, described the arrest as a shocking moment, raising concerns about how someone like Franco A could serve as a soldier in Germany. The incident in April 2017 left Germany in disbelief. Since then, his case has largely faded from public attention, but that is expected to change when he goes to trial early next year. The trial will not only hold him accountable for pretending to be a refugee when he was a German officer who couldn't speak Arabic, but also Germany for its failure to address far-right extremism. The investigation into Franco A's case revealed a network of extremist groups within Germany's security services, a threat that authorities only recently realized was more widespread than they had previously understood. The New York Times reported on two groups in northern Germany, one led by a former soldier and police sniper and the other by a special forces soldier known as Hannibal. The first group hoarded weapons, kept enemy lists, and ordered body bags, while the second group focused on the KSK, Germany's elite force. Following the discovery of explosives and SS memorabilia on a sergeant major's property this summer, an entire KSK unit was disbanded. The author interviewed many members of these networks over the past year, including Franco A. However, Franco A.'s story of leading a double life and transitioning from a promising officer to a suspected terrorist reflects the complexities of modern Germany. One nation was shaped by its loss in World War II and upbringing in a liberal environment that discouraged nationalism and taught citizens to feel remorseful. This Germany is now transitioning into a more uncertain country as its history fades and a previously inactive far-right movement emerges in response to a more diverse population. The postwar consensus in Germany is now at risk. When I initially encountered Franco A over a year ago at a restaurant in Berlin, he arrived prepared with various documents including notes and excerpts from his police file. At that time, he appeared self-assured. A terrorism case against Franco A was dismissed by a Frankfurt court due to insufficient evidence. However, the Supreme Court reinstated the case upon prosecutors' appeal several months later. Franco A contacted me via phone, expressing his distress. If found guilty, he could potentially be sentenced to a maximum of 10 years in prison. Even though his trial was pending, he agreed to a series of exclusive recorded interviews and invited me and two New York Times audio producers to his childhood home, where he still resides, to discuss his life, his beliefs, and aspects of his case. I visited multiple times over the following year, most recently the week before Christmas. On occasion, he would show us videos of himself in refugee disguise. Once, he took us down a creaky stairwell, through a safe-like metal door, into his "prepper" cellar, where he had hidden ammunition and a copy of Hitler's "Mein Kampf" before they were seized by the police. Franco A denies being involved in any terrorist plot. He claims that he pretended to be a refugee in order to expose Chancellor Angela Merkel's decision to let over 1 million refugees into Germany, which he believed posed a threat to national security and identity. He argued that the system was too overloaded, allowing anyone to enter. He maintained that he was following the Constitution, not sabotaging it, and had no intention of committing violence. He later questioned why he would not have carried out violent acts if that was his intention. The prosecutors did not provide any official statements, but the accusations against Franco A. are detailed in the Supreme Court decision. They cite the loaded gun he concealed at the Vienna airport, an illegal assault rifle he allegedly possessed, and a visit to the parking garage of a suspected target. Furthermore, they mention the numerous voice memos and diaries he maintained over many years, which they have used as evidence in his prosecution. I have reviewed these transcripts in police reports and evidence files, in which he expresses admiration for Hitler, questions Germany's remorse for the Holocaust, discusses global Jewish conspiracies, argues against immigration for ethnic purity, praises Russian President Vladimir Putin as a role model, and promotes the destruction of the state. Military uniforms were found in Franco A's basement in Offenbach, Germany on July 9, 2020. Franco A, who is now 31, believes that his personal thoughts should not be subject to prosecution. While some of his extreme views may be shared by 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 aftermath of September 11, 2001, and in a time of global economic crisis, distrust of government, far-right messaging, and belief in conspiracy theories have not only infiltrated certain branches of the security services but have also spread into mainstream society, as noted by Thomas Haldenwang, the president of Germany's domestic intelligence agency. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has even gained a significant presence in Parliament, prompting concerns about their potential danger. Haldenwang's agency is considering placing the entire party under observation due to these concerns. This is the ongoing struggle for Germany's democracy. In the time that I have been interviewing Franco A., high-ranking defense officials have shifted from casually addressing my questions about extremist networks to openly expressing concern. In March 2019, I inquired with a defense ministry official about the number of far-right extremists identified in the military, to which he responded, "Four." Only four? Yes, there were four extremist networks. "We are not aware of any networks," he stated. Until recently, German authorities ignored the issue. Franco A. was even promoted by his superiors despite outlining his beliefs in a master's thesis. He joined extremist groups consisting of numerous soldiers and police officers. He made a public appearance at a far-right event that was monitored by security services, but it was a janitor at the Vienna airport who ultimately exposed him. The janitor discovered a unique black gun loaded with six bullets hidden in a maintenance shaft in a disabled restroom. The Austrian officers were unfamiliar with the gun, a 7.65-caliber Unique 17 made by a French gunmaker that no longer exists, manufactured sometime between 1928 and 1944. It was discovered that the pistol was favored by German officers during the Nazi occupation of France. To identify the person who had concealed it, the police established an electronic trap. On February 3, 2017, they apprehended Franco A. when he attempted to open a wall shaft door with a tube of hair gel. A group of police officers quickly surrounded him with their weapons drawn. Two officers in plain clothes entered and questioned him about his actions. "I admitted to hiding a weapon here," Franco A. remembered saying. He mentioned that he had returned to retrieve it and bring it to the police. "I remember someone laughing," he added. The account he provided to Austrian police during questioning that evening was so unbelievable that he was hesitant to repeat it when we spoke. However, ultimately he decided to share it. A photograph of Franco A. was taken at a ceremony at the Saint-Cyr military academy in France and at his home in Offenbach, Germany on July 9, 2020, as reported by The New York Times. He concealed it to ensure he wouldn't miss his flight, but ultimately chose to go back and give it to the police. A picture of Franco A. was taken at a ceremony at the Saint-Cyr military academy in France, as well as at his residence in Offenbach, Germany, on July 9, 2020. He admitted, "I feel foolish sharing this story. I know no one believes it." Franco A. was released later that evening. However, the officers confiscated his phone and a USB stick discovered in his backpack. They obtained his fingerprints and forwarded them to German authorities for confirmation. When the results returned several weeks later, the officers were surprised to discover that Franco had two identities. According to his ID, he was a German officer stationed with the Franco-German brigade in Illkirch, near Strasbourg. However, the fingerprints on the gun were linked to a migrant who was registered near Munich, causing concern among investigators. There was speculation about whether Franco A. had hidden the gun with the intention of using it for an attack later. He was apprehended on the night of the annual fraternity ball, organized by Austria's far-right Freedom Party, which typically drew militant counterdemonstrators. One hypothesis was that Franco A. had intended to shoot someone that evening while posing as a leftist. When German authorities took control of the investigation, they discovered two documents on his UBS stick: the "Mujahedeen Explosives Handbook" and "Total Resistance," a manual from the Cold War era on urban guerrilla warfare. Through his cellphone, they uncovered a vast network of far-right Telegram chat groups with soldiers, police officers, and others preparing for what they called Day X, the collapse of society. Additionally, his phone contained numerous audio recordings of Franco A.'s thoughts over several years. Franco A. was arrested on April 26, 2017, during a military training exercise in a Bavarian forest, with ten federal police officers escorting him away. Ninety additional raids were taking place simultaneously 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, 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 paralleled Germany's history. Echoes of History Franco A was 12 or 13 when he purchased his first German flag, a small tabletop banner he found in a souvenir shop during a family vacation in Bavaria. This act, which might have been harmless in another country, was seen as a small act of defiance in postwar Germany, where national pride was frowned upon due to the country's Nazi history. "Germany has always held significance for me," Franco A remarked as he displayed photos of his childhood bedroom, with the flag prominently displayed in the foreground. Growing up in his working-class neighborhood, Franco A did not see many German flags due to the presence of guest workers from southern Europe and Turkey who helped rebuild postwar Germany and contributed to transforming its society. Franco A's mother, who lives upstairs from him, remembers having only a few classmates with a migrant background when she was in school in the 1960s. By the time Franco A attended school, children with two German parents were the minority, as his own father, an Italian guest worker, had left the family when he was a toddler. Franco A refers to his father as his "producer" rather than his father. In a January 2016 audio memo, Franco A talked about the guest worker program as a deliberate attempt to weaken German ethnicity. He considered himself a result of this racial animosity. He mentioned that his grandfather was born in 1919, the year when the Treaty of Versailles was signed, marking Germany's defeat in World War I. The treaty led to the belief in the "stab in the back" legend, claiming that Germany was betrayed by leftists and Jews in the ruling class. This propaganda fueled anti-democratic movements in the military, leading to the rise of Nazism - similar to the accusations prosecutors are making against Franco A today. He mentioned that his grandparents frequently looked after him, providing him with soup and sharing stories about their experiences during the war. His grandfather would entertain him with tales of his time in the Hitler youth, and the police found a copy of "Mein Kampf" that belonged to him. His grandmother, who was 20 at the time, fled from the Red Army with her sister in what is currently Poland. She recounted a story to the boy about their wooden cart breaking down, leading them to take a break in a field near Dresden. That evening, the sisters witnessed the destruction of the city by bombs, resulting in the deaths of up to 25,000 civilians. This tragic event has since been adopted as a symbol of grievance by the far right. Years later, Franco A was seen enacting a fictional dialogue in which he questions whether Jews should forever expect Germans to feel guilty for the "bomb terror in Dresden." His educators encouraged him to question authority and think independently. They belonged to the 1968 student movement and aimed to pass on the liberal values that emerged from it, such as a skepticism towards nationalism and a sense of repentance for the war. None of the teachers I interviewed observed any early signs of extremism in him, but instead remembered his affection for challenging conventions and his curious nature. Unbeknownst to others, during that period he became immersed in a vast realm of online conspiracy theories that would have a lasting impact on him. These beliefs started to form in his private teenage diary, where Franco A described them as mere explorations of ideas rather than proof of a firmly held ideology or plan. Among his musings were thoughts on altering the trajectory of German history, such as becoming a soldier and rising to a prominent role in the military to ultimately lead the German armed forces. In 2008, during the financial crisis following Lehman Brothers' collapse, Franco A joined the army at the age of 19. He was selected as one of the few German officer cadets to attend the prestigious 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 dilution of racial purity by subversive minorities had led to the downfall of great civilizations. He warned that Europe and the West were at risk if they did not protect themselves. He argued that ethnically diverse societies were not stable and accused nations that allowed migration of committing a form of "genocide." In his final section, he suggested that the Old Testament was the basis for subversion, providing a plan for Jews to achieve global dominance, which he considered to be a major conspiracy. The French military academy commander was shocked by these views and reported them to Franco A's German superiors, stating that if a French participant had made similar statements, they would have been expelled from the course. The German military hired historian Jörg Echternkamp to evaluate the thesis, and he quickly determined it to be a "radical nationalist, racist appeal" with an underlying sense of insecurity due to globalization. Despite the dangerous nature of the thesis, Franco A was not removed from service or reported to Germany's military counterintelligence agency. Instead, he was summoned to a branch office in Fontainebleau, near Paris, where an officer from the military's internal disciplinary unit informed him that his thesis did not align with Germany's values. Franco A explained that he felt pressure to excel academically as the second-ranked student in his year, leading him to become consumed by his own ideas and lose perspective. After a lengthy interrogation, a senior officer determined that Franco A had been negatively impacted by his intelligence. He was reprimanded and required to submit a new thesis. Upon his return to Germany in 2014, he was praised as a model soldier. In 2015, he received a positive evaluation for his work with ammunition. "The Magic Eye" book is prominently featured on Franco A's bookshelf. This book contains colorful images that, when stared at for a while, reveal entirely different images. Franco A himself is likened to this book, as during interviews he portrayed himself as a peaceful critical thinker who had been unfairly targeted in a political climate that punished dissent. However, records and interviews with investigators and others familiar with his case painted a different picture. After returning from France, Franco A. aligned himself with soldiers who shared his views. It was easy to locate them in the end. A colleague and close friend connected him with a national online chat group consisting of many soldiers and police officers worried about immigration. The officer who established the network was a member of Germany's elite special forces, the KSK, stationed in Calw, and went by the alias Hannibal. Hannibal was also in charge of an organization known as Uniter, which provided paramilitary instruction. This group is now being monitored by the domestic intelligence agency. Franco A participated in at least two Uniter meetings and was found to have badges of the group in his possession. According to police interviews, he was regarded as intelligent at the KSK base. A witness statement indicated that several soldiers were familiar with him. The majority of chat members were preppers who were anticipating the potential collapse of Germany's social order. Franco A started to create a stockpile of food and supplies in a "prepper" cellar, as well as acquiring guns and ammunition illegally, according to prosecutors. This occurred as Russia invaded Ukraine and a period of Islamist terrorism began in Europe. Additionally, in August, Merkel accepted hundreds of thousands of mainly Muslim asylum-seekers from conflicts in Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Franco A remembered feeling a genuine fear of war or civil unrest within Germany, leading him to consider violence, according to prosecutors. He believed that the state's fight against terrorism was actually a fight against him. In order to reveal the truth, he believed it needed to be carefully presented. To bring people to this truth, he felt a "trigger event" was essential, prompting him to search for potential targets. He refutes the claim. However, at the conclusion of his Christmas break in 2015, just 10 days prior to starting his initial assignment in the Franco-German brigade near Strasbourg, he assumed the identity of a refugee. While waiting at the police station for his first interview as David Benjamin, his refugee persona, Franco A examined a world map on the wall, contemplating whether Damascus or Aleppo would be a more believable birthplace. Eventually, he fabricated an elaborate family background. After completing his military training in France, he became fluent in French. During his interviews, he claimed to be a Syrian Christian with French heritage, mentioning that he had studied at a French high school and had worked as a fruit farmer in a small village near Aleppo. Despite his efforts to prepare himself, he found that it was unnecessary in the end. He stated that German authorities did not question his story, as they were overwhelmed at the time. Two days after presenting himself at the police station, he applied for asylum and was subsequently taken to temporary group shelters. He was eventually placed in a small residence in Baustarring, a Bavarian hamlet located 250 miles west of his army base. Franco A used his cellphone camera to film several videos of the shelters. He doubted the level of neediness of the asylum-seekers, especially the Syrians who had fled formerly middle-class lives in cities destroyed by conflict. He remarked that they appeared more like tourists than refugees. He explained that he chose to get a low-quality phone to avoid drawing attention with a better one, but ended up with the worst option. He criticized the system for being too lenient and forgiving, as he continued to receive financial support even when turning down job opportunities. 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 East conflicts. He felt like he was witnessing a real-life example of a situation described in his former advisor's thesis that had caused him disgrace. He believed that the region could have been kept stable and prevented millions of people from being displaced. During his asylum hearing, the Moroccan interpreter expressed concerns about his Arabic proficiency but hesitated to question him due to his Jewish-sounding name, fearing she might be perceived as anti-Semitic. Franco A was given "subsidiary protection," which permits asylum-seekers without identification documents to remain and work in Germany. Simultaneously, his standing within far-right groups expanded, with Franco A claiming he participated in debates at bars and was eventually asked to speak at events. Specifically, on Dec 15, 2016, he spoke at the "Prussian Evening" held at Hotel Regent in Munich, organized by a publisher associated with Holocaust denial. The topic of his presentation that evening was "German conservatives - a diaspora in their own country." His voice memos became more urgent over the course of the year, with one in January 2016 mentioning that those who spoke out against the government were often killed. He expressed a sense of paranoia and fear, stating "Let's not hesitate, not to murder but to kill," and "I know you will murder me. I will murder you first." Prosecutors claim that Franco A had been leading a double life for almost seven months when he traveled to Berlin in the summer of 2016. He went to a side street near the Jewish quarter to capture four photos of car license plates in a private underground parking garage, according to sources. The investigators later obtained the images from his cellphone. The building was where the Amadeu Antonio Foundation, led by Anetta Kahane, a well-known Jewish activist, had its offices. Kahane, who is the daughter of Holocaust survivors, has been the subject of far-right animosity for many years. Prosecutors suspect, based on confiscated notes, that Kahane, now 66, was among several prominent figures targeted by Franco A. for their pro-refugee stances. Other individuals mentioned in the notes were Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, who served as justice minister at the time, and Claudia Roth, a Green lawmaker who held the position of Parliament's vice president. The name Kahane was written at least two times in the notes, once at the end of a list of seemingly ordinary items and also in a reminder to contact the bank where his refugee alter ego had an account. Franco A, who showed the notes to me, described them as a typical to-do list. On one page, he included information about Kahane's background, age, and work address. He made a detailed map of her parking garage location and wrote a message indicating they were not yet able to act. Leading up to his trip to Berlin and in the days following, Franco purchased items for a handgun and a mounting rail for a telescopic sight. He was also seen at a shooting range testing out accessories with an assault rifle. During a trip to Paris, he met with the head of a pro-Putin Russian think tank with ties to France's far right and is believed to have purchased the French handgun found in Vienna. Prosecutors allege Franco A was preparing for a killing, but he denies all accusations. He stated that the prosecutors' claims do not show any intention to harm Kahane. During a lengthy interview, he mentioned having pictures on his phone but pointed out that it doesn't prove his presence at the scene. Despite citing his upcoming trial, he eventually discussed the matter in hypothetical terms. He mentioned that if he had gone, it would have been for a conversation. He added that he would have rung the bell but discovered that Kahane was not present. He could have gone to the parking garage with the intention of finding out information about the car. He mentioned the possibility of finding the person through luck. He denied any plans to kill Kahane, stating that even if he had visited the garage, it would only be in preparation for an assassination, not an act of terrorism. He questioned how this could be a threat to the state since Kahane was not a politician. When we first met, she had just received yet another threatening email from a neo-Nazi. This was a common occurrence for her. The message threatened to physically harm her, but what frightened her more was the lack of awareness from German authorities. She vividly remembered the day the police informed her that they had apprehended a neo-Nazi who intended to harm her. They were talking about Franco A. and two of his companions. She had jokingly asked, "So you caught all three of them?" She remarked that people always underestimate the number of Nazis involved. The German Constitution includes Article 20.4, which permits resistance in situations where democracy is threatened, inspired by Hitler's 1933 enabling act that abolished democracy after his election. Far-right extremists who criticize Merkel's government as unconstitutional find favor in the Constitution, which holds a prominent position in Franco A's library. He frequently references it and was unhappy when I visited him before Christmas and revealed I had transcripts of his voice memos. I questioned him about some of his previous statements, such as his claim that Hitler was "above everything." He explained that he meant it ironically and played the recording for me, which had a casual and banter-like tone with two voices chuckling. However, it was not clear that it was all meant as a joke. I also inquired about another recording from January 2016. Franco A. stated that anyone who helps destroy the state is doing something positive, claiming that laws are meaningless. This statement raised questions about how he could defend the Constitution while holding such beliefs. After a moment of silence, Franco A. examined his own words. He looked through the notes of his attorney, but he could not find a response. 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 titled "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 six-day international symposium at Hotel Sonargaon on Saturday. The symposium, organized jointly by the University of Dhaka and the Ohio State University of the USA, in collaboration with the 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 arrival of the Icelandic president in Dhaka on Tuesday was postponed. | 2 |
The scope of what was discovered was remarkable. Reporters from even small countries like Guinea-Bissau were asked to make deals with Chinese journalists. China was circulating its propaganda newspaper China Daily not only in English, but also in Serbian. A journalist from the Philippines estimated that over half of the news stories on a Philippines newswire were sourced from the Chinese state agency Xinhua. A media organization in Kenya received funding from Chinese investors, and subsequently dismissed a columnist who had covered China's treatment of the Uyghur minority. Journalists in Peru were heavily criticized on social media by aggressive Chinese government officials. This criticism was found to be part of a larger strategy to establish an alternative to global news media dominated by outlets such as the BBC and CNN, and to influence media worldwide with Chinese money, power, and perspective. A new report from the International Federation of Journalists, set to be released on Wednesday, examines China's intentions behind this strategy. Louisa Lim, author of the first report, conducted interviews with journalists in 54 countries for this second report. According to Lim, an ex-NPR bureau chief in Beijing now teaching at the University of Melbourne, interviews show how China utilized its global media infrastructure during the pandemic to spread positive narratives and disinformation. The report, co-written by Bergin and Lidberg from Monash University, highlights a shift in global power dynamics rather than a secretive plot. China's media strategy, per a Chinese Foreign Ministry official, is similar to tactics used by other powerful nations for over a century. The report also notes a surge in Chinese media activity during the pandemic, coinciding with increased diplomatic efforts and the distribution of protective equipment and vaccines worldwide. Italian journalists were pressured to broadcast President Xi Jinping's Christmas speech and were given a translated version in Italian. In Tunisia, the Chinese embassy provided hand sanitizer and masks to the journalists' union, as well as expensive television equipment and free pro-China content to the state broadcaster. A pro-government tabloid in Serbia displayed a billboard featuring the Chinese leader with the words "Thank you, brother Xi." The media and vaccine campaigns are linked to China's "Belt and Road" global investment initiative, which involves expectations of support in key UN votes and debt. China faces challenges due to its authoritarianism, treatment of Uyghurs, and crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong, which have negatively impacted global perceptions of the country even before the pandemic. Some governments are starting to make it more difficult for Chinese state media to operate in their countries, such as Britain revoking the license of the main Chinese state broadcaster. China's diplomatic efforts are primarily focused on countries that have a vote at the UN, rather than European countries. Despite appearing to be improvised and run out of local embassies, China's media influence is growing globally. According to a report by Lim, Beijing is gradually reshaping the global media landscape country by country. Journalists from five continents shared their perspectives on Chinese government pressure, with some feeling alarmed and others confident in navigating the complex media environment. In Peru, the government has a favorable relationship with China and influential political figures received early access to a Chinese-made vaccine. According to Zuliana Lainez, the secretary-general of the National Association of Journalists of Peru, the state media in Peru frequently promotes Chinese interests. Lainez expressed concern about the Peruvian state news agency and the state-controlled newspaper El Peruano acting as mouthpieces for the Chinese embassy, as well as the Chinese embassy investing in updating newsrooms' technology. This has raised worries about the lack of independence in reporting. However, not all journalists view China's expanding media presence as negative. Stefano Polli, the deputy director of the Italian news service ANSA, believes that China is using media to increase its influence in global politics. He defended his service's contract to translate and distribute Xinhua, stating that it is a common commercial agreement. China has tightened restrictions on foreign journalists within its borders, leading international news outlets to rely more on official sources and preventing American reporters, including most of the New York Times bureau, from obtaining visas. Luca Rigoni, a prominent anchor at a TV channel owned by the Italian company Mediaset, revealed that his news organization had previously collaborated with Chinese state media for reporting from China, but this partnership ceased after he covered the theory that the virus originated from a Chinese lab. Despite these challenges, Rigoni, whose company is owned by Italy's former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, noted that China is not the only country where government or parliament controls major TV and radio programs. The general secretary of the International Federation of Journalists, Anthony Bellanger, believes that China is becoming a significant player in the information war, but he also emphasizes the importance of resisting pressures from the US, Russia, and other governments. However, recent reports suggest that China is currently more dedicated to spreading its messages globally, spending millions of dollars annually for this purpose. The US, on the other hand, pioneered covert and overt influence tactics during the Cold War, but its official channels have weakened over time. While the CIA's influence operations have evolved into softer tools of American power, President Trump has attempted to use outlets like Voice of America and Radio Liberty as propaganda tools, which has been met with resistance from Democrats and journalists. The American government's inability to agree on how to utilize its own media outlets has resulted in a lack of projection. Instead, companies like Netflix and Disney, which are more powerful and well-funded than government efforts, have taken on this role. Journalists worldwide have expressed doubt about the effectiveness of Chinese government propaganda, a sentiment shared by many, including myself, when faced with unread editions of China Daily. Propaganda that may work in China is struggling to compete in the competitive market for people's attention. Eric Oduor, the secretary-general of the Kenya Union of Journalists, noted that China's attempts to influence Kenyan media have not yet been successful. Some argue that even though journalists may dismiss certain content as amateurish or 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 changed their focus from military competition to economic cooperation after their journalists accepted official trips to China. When discussing Chinese influence with journalists from various countries, the focus was often on China's efforts to build influence and promote its own narrative, rather than on a global struggle between nations. This contrasts with the common American perspective, which tends to view everything through the lens of the US. The Western world, including Americans, often overlooks events in languages other than English and assumes 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 conflict have noted that several Ethiopian army units have either collapsed or retreated. The declaration of a state of emergency reflects the rapidly changing situation in a growing war that is threatening to divide Ethiopia, the second-most populous country in Africa. This development is another setback for Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate whose reputation has been tarnished by a war that has resulted in reports of human rights abuses, massacres, and famine. A year ago, 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 main political adversary. However, despite initially vowing a quick and peaceful operation, Abiy found himself embroiled in a complex military situation. The Ethiopian army faced a significant setback in June, leading to their retreat from Tigray and the capture of thousands of soldiers. Currently, the conflict is approaching Abiy, with recent reports showing Tigrayan rebels advancing towards towns like Dessie and Kombolcha, located just 160 miles northeast of the capital. According to a United Nations official, Tigrayan forces were observed moving south from Kombolcha on Tuesday. During the state of emergency, Abiy has extensive authority to apprehend and imprison dissenters, enforce curfews, and control the media. Justice Minister Gedion Timothewos stated at a press conference that any citizen over 18 may be summoned to join the fight. He also mentioned that individuals in possession of weapons must surrender them to the government. The state of emergency is expected to be in effect for six months, as announced by the government. Prior to this, the city administration in Addis Ababa had urged residents to utilize their weapons to protect their communities. In a statement, it was mentioned that house-to-house searches were being carried out to locate Tigrayan sympathizers. The city was filled with growing anxiety as tensions rose due to news of military progress by Tigrayan forces. A taxi driver named Dereje, who chose not to share his full name due to the tense atmosphere, expressed his intention to join the conflict, stating that he would not stay passive and would fight for his children and country. However, a teacher, who also did not reveal his name, mentioned that he had lost trust in the Ethiopian government. "They deceived us by claiming that TPLF had been defeated," he stated, in reference to the Tigray People's Liberation Front. "I am extremely concerned about what will happen. May God assist us." President Joe Biden, who has threatened to impose sanctions on Ethiopia unless it agrees to peace talks, announced on Tuesday that he would withdraw trade privileges for Ethiopia, including duty-free access to the United States, due to "serious violations of internationally recognized human rights." In a separate press briefing, Jeffrey Feltman, the Biden administration's envoy to the Horn of Africa, warned that the escalating conflict could have severe repercussions for Ethiopia's unity and its relationship with the United States. Ethiopian soldiers who were defeated were paraded through Mekelle after the Tigray Defence Forces took control of the regional capital on June 25, 2021. Billene Seyoum, a spokesperson for Abiy, did not provide a response to a request for comment. Ethiopian soldiers who were defeated are being marched through Mekelle following the fall of the regional capital to the Tigray Defence Forces on June 25, 2021. Ethiopia’s Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration stated that revoking trade privileges would have a negative impact on the country's economic progress and disproportionately affect women and children. The statement emphasized Ethiopia's commitment to holding perpetrators of serious human rights violations accountable. The escalating situation in Ethiopia has raised concerns in the region, with fears that the conflict could spread to neighboring countries like Kenya or result in a surge of refugees crossing borders. Despite being praised by the West for winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, Abiy has faced mounting criticism over the past year as the conflict in Tigray escalated, leading former allies to criticize his actions. The recent criticism has mainly focused on Ethiopia's harsh blockade of Tigray, which has hindered the delivery of essential supplies such as food and medicine to a region where the United Nations estimates that 5.2 million people are in urgent need of assistance and 400,000 are facing famine-like conditions. After the US threatened sanctions against Abiy's government in September, he accused the West of neocolonial bias and expelled seven senior UN officials, including a humanitarian aid coordinator in Tigray. The Ethiopian military recently launched an offensive against Tigrayan forces, including airstrikes on Mekelle. Abiy has attributed his losses to unknown foreigners fighting alongside the Tigrayans. In Addis Ababa, security forces have begun rounding up ethnic Tigrayans, raising concerns of reprisals as rebels advance. International attempts to encourage both sides to engage in negotiations have been unsuccessful. Despite evidence that Abiy's military is struggling, he continues to carry out military operations. 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, a top strategist for the rebels. Human rights organizations have accused Tigrayan fighters of abuses, including the killing of Eritrean refugees, although not to the same extent as Ethiopian troops. The Ethiopian government has accused Tigrayan fighters of killing residents in Kombolcha recently, but has not provided any evidence to support this claim. The Tigrayans have been advancing southward into the Amhara region since July, engaging in a prolonged battle that has largely gone unnoticed due to internet blackouts and restrictions on reporting. A significant development occurred over the weekend when Dessie and Kombolcha, strategically important towns along a key north-south highway, were captured. This highway has become a crucial battleground that may determine the future of Ethiopia. As the Tigrayans continue their advance south, they have aligned 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 is now making inroads into urban areas 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 planned to move south with the Tigrayans in the next two or three days. Throughout much of the conflict, Abiy had strong support from neighbouring Eritrea, whose soldiers entered Tigray early in the war in late 2020 and were accused of committing serious atrocities against civilians. However, in recent weeks, the Eritreans have not been involved in the latest fighting for reasons that are unclear, according to Tigrayan and Western officials. Getachew Reda, a spokesperson for the Tigray People's Liberation Front, stated that the Ethiopian military was falling apart as it retreated south, leaving behind armed ethnic militias. He mentioned that the command and control structure had collapsed, which was confirmed by two unidentified Western officials due to diplomatic concerns. If the Tigrayans keep advancing to the south, officials said Abiy will probably experience significant pressure from both within his political allies and on the battlefield. © 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Images circulating on social media depict cars being carried away by floods, buildings and businesses submerged in mud, and roads blocked by boulders from mudslides. Merida Governor Ramon Guevara confirmed that 11 people died in Tovar and two children lost their lives in Antonio Pinto Salinas. Guevara expressed his sorrow over the situation, stating that power outages occurred due to the flooding damaging transformers. The affected area is an agricultural region that supplies food to other regions of the country. | 2 |
The increase in Russian troops near the Ukraine border, a key route for Russian gas to the West, has raised concerns about potential gas shortages. The decrease in gas supplies from Russia, Europe's primary source of fuel imports, has led to higher prices. Henning Gloystein, a director at Eurasia Group, warned of possible supply shortages that could impact economic growth and lead to public unrest, with blackouts being a worst-case scenario. He suggested that governments may need to restrict gas usage at factories to ensure households have enough for heating. Recently, gas prices on the TTF trading hub in the Netherlands reached a record high of around $60 per million British thermal units due to reports of Russian gas flows being redirected towards the East. European gas prices have doubled this month and are approximately 15 times higher than in the United States. Gloystein suggested that this spike in prices may be due to opportunistic trading rather than malicious intent from Moscow. However, the reality is that natural gas markets in Europe are extremely volatile. Tensions between Russia and the West regarding Ukraine make it unlikely that the Nord Stream 2 pipeline will open soon, causing further strain. Karen Donfried, assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, stated that the US views Nord Stream 2 as a Russian project that threatens the energy security of Europe. The US is collaborating with Germany to enhance energy security in Europe. Energy companies are redirecting liquefied natural gas shipments from Asia to Europe due to the high prices, but this may not be enough to replace Russian gas or alleviate the crisis significantly. Laura Page, an analyst at research firm Kpler, noted that despite the market being aware of more LNG coming, there seems to be no impact on sentiment. Gas, being a crucial fuel for generating electricity, has caused electric power prices to surge in Europe. For example, in Britain, stable power was trading at around 340 pounds (approximately $450) per megawatt-hour on Tuesday on the Epex Spot exchange, which is three times higher than the average price of electricity throughout the year. The elevated gas prices in recent months will eventually result in increased energy costs for households in Britain and other nations. Martin Young, an analyst at Investec, a securities firm, predicted in a recent communication to clients that British consumers, who have been shielded by price caps, may experience an increase of over 50% in their energy bills when adjustments are revealed early next year. The recent closure of three French nuclear plants for inspections has intensified activity in the power market. Mark Devine, a trader at Sembcorp, an energy company, described the heightened prices as the new normal for this winter. | 2 |
Daschle was struck by the reversal of protocol when Bob Dole insisted on coming to his office, despite Daschle being the junior person in the job. Dole's witty remark about being able to decide when the meeting is over when he visits Daschle's office exemplified his no-nonsense manner. This story serves as a reminder of Bob Dole's Washington, where he brought his prairie values and straightforward approach after arriving in 1961. Throughout the next 35 years, including his time in the House, Senate, and unsuccessful presidential campaigns, he thrived in a Washington environment that suited his skills as a negotiator. While it may be cliché to look back fondly on a past era in Washington when politicians from different parties clashed during the day but socialized at night, there was indeed partisanship during Dole's time in Congress. However, it is undeniable that the atmosphere was different, and the results are clear: Dole, both as a senator and as the Republican leader, worked across party lines to pass bipartisan legislation such as the Social Security rescue bill, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and welfare reform. One of his proudest achievements was collaborating with liberal Democrat George McGovern to improve the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. After leaving the Senate, they continued to collaborate on nutrition issues. Senator Patrick J Leahy spoke about the strong working relationship between George J Mitchell Jr and Dole, who would frequently visit each other's offices. They had a high level of trust and communication, with dedicated phone lines on their desks for direct communication. Leahy noted that this level of cooperation and trust is rare in today's political climate. The button proved to be useful in November 1994, when Republicans regained the majority. Mitchell, who had not run for reelection, requested that Dole be informed of his visit to congratulate him. Dole responded quickly, insisting that Mitchell should not have to make the effort and that he would instead go to Mitchell's office. This gesture was seen as considerate and respectful by Mitchell and his team. According to presidential historian Robert Dallek, Dole excelled in an era when bipartisanship was valued, understanding the importance of working with politicians from different parties. Dallek also noted that despite his conservative ideology, Dole was skilled at collaboration. Newt Gingrich, the former Republican speaker of the House known for his role in increasing partisan conflict in Washington, revealed that he collaborated with Dole to pass tax cuts and defeat President Bill Clinton's health care plan. In a recent interview, Gingrich compared Dole to current Republican leader Sen. Mitch McConnell, stating that they both excel tactically in the Senate and are skilled at both obstructing and advancing legislation. Despite their successful partnership, Dole could not fully support Gingrich's confrontational approach. In 1995, when Gingrich and House Republicans caused a government shutdown by refusing to pass federal spending bills, Dole expressed his frustration on the Senate floor, stating that the situation had become ridiculous. Dole and his wife, Elizabeth Dole, were viewed as a powerful couple in Washington, symbolizing the city's institutions. Dole was a symbol of World War II and the Greatest Generation, representing a time of dignity and honor. He was instrumental in creating the World War II Memorial on the National Mall and frequently greeted veterans there. Dallek, the historian, described Dole as a representation of American values, coming from the heartland and embodying shared values. In 1996, after over 25 years in the Senate, Dole left to run for president amidst a changing Washington with Gingrich's influence and Clinton's impeachment over the Monica Lewinsky affair adding to partisan tensions. However, despite being the Senate's longest-serving Republican leader, when Dole went to the chamber to announce his departure, the traditional customs of the Capitol remained unchanged. Leahy recalled that nearly every Democratic senator was present on the floor that day. Despite Dole's plan 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 was still available, despite the country's new leadership no longer prioritizing alliance membership. She emphasized that the United States supported Ukraine's improved relations with Moscow and criticized those who tried to force Ukraine to pick sides between Russia and the West. Clinton also encouraged President Viktor Yanukovich to continue on a democratic path and subtly raised concerns about potential limitations on media freedom in the country. "We would urge the Ukrainian government to protect these essential freedoms," she stated during a press conference with Yanukovich. 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 reform, combating corruption, and upholding the rule of law. Clinton's subtle avoidance of openly criticizing pro-Russian actions by the newly-elected Yanukovich was consistent with the Obama administration's strategy of improving relations with Moscow. Despite reducing interactions with the U.S.-led military alliance, Yanukovich has aligned Ukraine more closely with Moscow by increasing commercial ties and prolonging the Russian navy's presence in a Ukrainian Black Sea port for 25 years. Clinton emphasized Ukraine's sovereignty and right to choose its own alliances, including with NATO, but left the decision up to the country to pursue its own security interests. Yanukovich has decided not to pursue NATO membership, which pleased Moscow. He stated that his country will not join any military alliances. Despite this, he mentioned that Kiev will continue to work with NATO on defense reform and peace-keeping. Clinton later commended Ukraine's efforts to balance its relationships with the US, EU, and Russia, stating that it makes sense. Yanukovich was likely happy to receive approval from Washington for his pragmatic approach that considers both Russia and the West, as well as Ukraine's efforts to stabilize its economy with help from global financial institutions. Clinton also praised Yanukovich's election in February as a significant step in strengthening Ukraine's democracy. She later encountered Yulia Tymoshenko, the ex-Prime Minister who is now in opposition and may have a differing perspective. Tymoshenko, who is facing potential prosecution for supposed wrongdoings during her time in office, contested Yanukovich's election but later abandoned a legal effort to halt his inauguration. There are concerns about media freedoms and democratic rights under Yanukovich's leadership, with US Ambassador John Tefft expressing worry about alleged pressure on journalists since he took office. She emphasized the importance of freedoms such as speech, press, petitioning governments, and assembly, stating that they are fundamental rights of every individual. Clinton mentioned discussing these issues with Yanukovich and highlighted his previous commitments to democracy, rule of law, and human rights. She also noted that words must be backed up with actions in order to bring about real change. Clinton is beginning a tour of five countries and was scheduled to visit Krakow, Poland, on Saturday for a meeting of the Community of Democracies, an organization that supports democratic principles. In addition, she will also travel to Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia. | 2 |
The government has launched a program to support 50,000 small and marginal farmers in increasing maize cultivation. Agriculture minister Matia Chowdhury announced the initiative, which involves distributing seeds and fertilizers worth Tk 65 million free of charge, at a press conference on Wednesday. The government will provide the seeds and fertilizers to farmers for planting maize on 16,500 acres of land in 62 upazilas across 11 districts. The program, which begins in the current winter season, will provide farmers with 3 kilograms of hybrid maize seeds and 50 kgs of fertilizers, including 25kgs of diamonium phosphate (DAP) and muriate of potash (MoP), as incentives for maize cultivation on each bigha [0.33 acre] of land. The minister stated that the programme aims to increase maize production by 31,000 tonnes, with the additional maize expected to be worth at least Tk 62 crore in the market. The programme will be carried out in districts such as Nilphamari, Kurigram, Rangpur, Gaibandha, Lalmonirhat, Pirojpur, Barisal, Barguna, Patuakhali, Bhola, and Jhalokhati. The agriculture minister explained that the goal of the incentive programme is to encourage farmers to cultivate maize due to its high demand and lower irrigation and cultivation costs compared to other crops like rice and wheat. She also noted that wheat production in the northern region has decreased due to climate changes, leading to increased interest in maize cultivation among farmers because of the high demand for maize for both human and poultry consumption. The nation produces approximately 1.55 million tonnes of maize annually and must import an additional 422,000 tonnes each year. | 2 |
In 2020, amidst the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, the murder of George Floyd, and a social justice movement against police violence and racism, the FBI observed a rise in hate crimes directed at African Americans. The majority of the 8,052 reported hate crime incidents were motivated by race, ethnicity, or ancestry bias, with Black Americans being the most targeted group. The number of reported hate crimes against African Americans in 2020 increased to 2,871 from 1,972 in 2019, resulting in an overall 9.1% rise in hate crimes. Experts caution that FBI data from the five years leading up to 2019 showed that African Americans were the victims in approximately half of all cases involving bias based on race, ethnicity, or ancestry. They acknowledge that these federal numbers may not be complete, and suggest that the increase in reported cases may be due to greater awareness and willingness to report such crimes. However, they also suggest that the focus on social justice issues may have led to a rise in violence targeting Black Americans. Brian Levin, director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, noted that the events of 2020, including the protests following the murder of George Floyd, shifted the focus of prejudice towards African Americans. While national hate crime statistics for 2021 have not yet been released, experts in hate crime report that attacks on Black Americans and institutions have continued. For example, a significant number of historically Black colleges and universities, along with houses of worship and other faith-based and academic institutions, were targeted with bomb threats this year according to the FBI. In February, three white Georgia men were found guilty of federal hate crimes for killing Ahmaud Arbery because he was African American, highlighting racially motivated violence. The FBI releases an annual report on hate crimes, but the federal tracking system does not mandate police agencies to submit data, leading to underreporting. Despite this, the report provides a useful overview of general trends in hate crimes. The Justice Department has been urging victims to report bias incidents and prioritizing the prosecution of such crimes. The FBI released a report last year, based on data gathered in 2020 from over 15,000 law enforcement agencies, which revealed the highest increase in hate crimes in twelve years. This rise was largely attributed to a surge in incidents targeting Black and Asian Americans. A hate crime is defined by the FBI as a crime against a person or property driven by prejudice, ranging from bomb threats and vandalism to physical harm and murder. Federal data indicates that over the last decade, hate crimes against Black Americans, who make up 12.1% of the population, have been significantly higher than those reported against any other group, including those based on religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. The data shows 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 reported was anti-Jewish crimes, with 7,688 reports, even though Jews make up only 2.4% of the US adult population. The man responsible for the attack in Buffalo, an 18-year-old white supremacist armed with a semi-automatic rifle, targeted a supermarket in a predominantly Black neighborhood, resulting in the deaths of 10 people and injuries to three others, mostly African American. His online posts revealed his hateful motives, including references to replacement theory, a belief that white people are in danger of being replaced by people of color and immigrants. This mass shooting, being investigated by the Justice Department as a potential hate crime, is just one example of racial violence stemming from white supremacy, similar to past massacres in Charleston, Pittsburgh, and El Paso. Experts studying hate crimes against African Americans note that these incidents are a mix of old and new forms of bigotry. The enduring fear of demographic shifts and "replacement" is present in certain corners of the internet and fueled by racist political rhetoric. According to Jeannine Bell, a professor at Indiana University Maurer School of Law and an expert on hate crimes, this theme has been a concern for white supremacists for many decades. Bell believes that the recent increase in anti-Black hate crimes is partly due to a backlash against the protests that followed George Floyd's murder in Minneapolis, which brought out anger towards African Americans. "There was a significant amount of support, as well as a significant amount of anger," she stated. "The news was filled with stories of Black victimization, which particularly incenses white supremacists when African Americans are portrayed sympathetically." Bell noted that it is difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the rise in hate crimes, but significant events such as the protests in the summer of 2020 can serve as a useful reference point. "It is likely that there has been a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes," Bell added. "What occurred? There was an incident, a pandemic, and a surge in anti-Asian hate crimes related to the pandemic began to occur." According to Bell, accurately counting hate crimes against African Americans is challenging due to a lack of organizations dedicated to tracking such crimes. A coalition of national civil rights and social justice groups has urged President Joe Biden to hold a summit this week to address hate crimes and right-wing extremism. The Rev. Al Sharpton took to Twitter to emphasize the importance of a national response to the increasing crimes. | 2 |
The year 2017 began with the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, who quickly implemented restrictions on abortions worldwide, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for women's rights. However, this challenging period also saw the emergence of a new era of resistance in the United States and beyond. Progress was made in the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America towards eliminating gender discrimination, with UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka describing it as a year dedicated to addressing discriminatory laws. In Lebanon, Tunisia, and Jordan, laws allowing rapists to evade punishment by marrying their victims were repealed, a development that activists hope will inspire change in other Arab nations. During a protest march in Hollywood, a woman wore an outfit displaying the names of all the men in Hollywood who had sexually harassed her. This event took place on November 12, 2017 in Los Angeles, California, US, during a march for survivors of sexual assault and their supporters. According to Reuters, there have been recent legal victories against child marriage in countries like Malawi, Honduras, Trinidad and Tobago, El Salvador, and Guatemala. In India, lawmakers have also taken action to punish those who have sex with wives aged 15 to 18 as rape, even though child marriage is illegal yet common. However, Trump's expansion of the global gag rule has negatively impacted family planning services and women's health worldwide, according to charities. On a positive note, Chile has ruled to legalize abortion in certain circumstances, leaving only a few countries where it is still completely banned. "We are seeing progress in advancing reproductive rights despite a challenging global environment," said Lilian Sepulveda from the Center for Reproductive Rights. Women's rights leaders noted that the resistance to sexism was a defining aspect of 2017. The focus has shifted from blaming and stigmatizing victims to holding abusers accountable, according to the UN's Mlambo-Ngcuka. Time magazine recognized the #MeToo movement as the most influential entity in 2017. Following Trump's inauguration, millions of women worldwide protested, some wearing pink "pussyhats" in response to his derogatory comments about women in a 2005 video. Time magazine has named the #MeToo social movement as the most influential "person" in 2017. Later, millions of people joined a popular protest movement by sharing stories of sexual abuse and harassment on social media using the hashtag #MeToo, or in France, #balancetonporc ("expose your pig"). Bob Bland, one of the national co-chairs of the Women's March on Washington, believes that this movement is just the beginning of a new awakening for women. Looking ahead to 2018, she stated that they are prepared and determined for the fight ahead. | 2 |
The most severe financial crisis in 80 years had a significant impact on emerging markets, leading to emergency actions by central banks and calls for international assistance to prevent investors from withdrawing their funds. In the United States, Wachovia Corp, soon to be acquired by Wells Fargo & Co, reported a record $23.9 billion loss in the third quarter, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the global credit crisis. Emerging market assets such as stocks, sovereign debt, and currencies faced heavy selling pressure as investors liquidated their positions due to concerns about the worsening global economy. Despite efforts by authorities worldwide to stabilize the financial system, fears of a global recession persisted. Hungary raised interest rates by three percentage points in an attempt to protect its currency, the forint. Belarus has asked for a loan from the IMF, while Ukraine anticipates receiving significant financial assistance from the IMF. The IMF is also prepared to assist Pakistan and Iceland, which are facing financial challenges. Neil Dougall, chief economist at Dresdner Kleinwort, believes that capital is shifting from emerging markets to developed markets. Various officials expressed optimism about the financial crisis despite the problems it has caused, with billions of dollars in rescue packages being implemented by governments worldwide. U.S. Treasury Undersecretary David McCormick acknowledged the challenging times ahead for the U.S. economy but suggested a potential recovery by late next year. Similarly, Mervyn King, governor of the Bank of England, indicated that the worst may be over for the financial system, although stability remains a distant goal. The strategy to rebuild the banking system, both domestically and internationally, is expected to be recognized as the turning point in the recent banking crisis. This belief 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. Russia, a strong emerging market that has been heavily impacted by the crisis, has also shown signs of progress in bank lending. "Interbank lending is returning to normal levels. Although rates are still high, they are beginning to decrease." Banks have begun lending to sectors once again, but according to First Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov, it will take two to three weeks for the situation to show signs of improvement. The main concern overshadowing the progress in combating financial collapse is the deteriorating global economic climate. The Bank of England's recent meeting minutes revealed that the UK economy had significantly worsened, with Governor King suggesting that the country may be entering its first recession in 16 years. These concerns have caused turbulence in financial markets. Wall Street seemed poised for a weak opening, with Dow Jones industrial average futures dropping 259 points, almost 3 percent. European shares were down over 4.4 percent, while Japan's Nikkei average closed 6.8 percent lower. In emerging markets, MSCI's sector index hit its lowest level since June 2005, and sovereign debt spreads widened to over 700 basis points above Treasury yields for the first time since early 2003. Apart from the forint, other currencies were also struggling, with the Turkish lira falling to a more than two-year low and South Africa's rand hitting its lowest point in over six years against the dollar. Sanjay Mathur, an economist at the Royal Bank of Scotland in Singapore, warned that the upcoming business cycle downturn could be quite severe. A variety of US companies reported their results on Wednesday, providing an overview of the current conditions in different industries and sectors in the largest economy in the world. Tobacco companies Philip Morris International and Reynolds American Inc exceeded analysts' expectations with their quarterly profits, as did fast-food chain McDonald's Corp. However, these positive results stood out against an otherwise challenging backdrop. | 2 |
While global leaders and top scientists in Copenhagen discuss how to address climate change, farmers in flood-prone areas of northern India are taking matters into their own hands to adapt to changing weather patterns. The people of Uttar Pradesh have been experiencing unpredictable weather for decades, including more intense rainfall in short periods of time. This, combined with heavy mountain run-off from Nepal, has led to flooding in the region, causing destruction of homes, crops, and livestock. This highlights the vulnerability of the poorest populations in countries like China and India to the effects of climate change. While leaders debate in Copenhagen about carbon emissions and funding, experts suggest that low-cost adaptation methods, utilizing existing community knowledge, could help these vulnerable farmers. In the fields of Manoharchak village, where concepts like "global warming" are unfamiliar, experiments are proving successful and transforming the lives of impoverished farmers. These farmers are using simple yet effective techniques to adapt to the changing climate. Hooblal Chauhan, a farmer from the village, has diversified his crops and is taking steps to cope with the unpredictable weather. The villagers have also taken measures such as raising roads, elevating homes, and planting flood-tolerant rice to improve their resilience. With support from the Gorakhpur Environmental Action Group, they are achieving two harvests a year and expanding their crops beyond traditional ones. The variety of crops is seen as a valuable asset for farmers when their main crops, such as wheat and rice, do not thrive. In addition to providing a diverse and nutritious diet, vegetables also offer the opportunity to earn income when surplus produce is sold. Farmers in the region are facing challenges from heavy rainfall, which leads to silt deposition due to prolonged water-logging. However, Sumitra Chauhan, a 50-year-old widow who cultivates a variety of vegetables along with rice and wheat on her two-acre land, has found ways to tackle this issue. She explained that by starting seedlings in nurseries and then transferring them to the fields once the water drains, she is able to avoid delays caused by water-logging. Sumitra's plot is flourishing with vegetables like mustard, peas, spinach, and tomatoes. Farmers in eastern Uttar Pradesh are adapting to climate change by using innovative farming techniques such as multi-tier cropping, where vegetables are grown on raised platforms. The region has experienced dry spells due to warmer temperatures and reduced rainfall during monsoon periods. To combat these challenges, villagers have invested in water pumps for irrigation, reducing their reliance on rainwater. Oxfam reports that millions of people in India have been impacted by climate-related issues. Some individuals have found themselves in debt while others have moved to urban areas in search of work or have had to sell off possessions like livestock to survive. Ekta Bartarya of the Gorakhpur Environmental Action Group believes that although developing countries require significant investment to address climate change impacts, small and marginalized farmers in India can begin to help themselves by utilizing affordable and straightforward techniques. | 2 |
US President Barack Obama is set to announce a jobs package valued at more than $300 billion on Thursday, in an effort to address the struggling American economy and boost his chances for re-election. The plan will focus on tax cuts for middle-class families and businesses, as well as increased spending on infrastructure projects like roads and bridges. Obama will deliver a televised speech to Congress urging them to pass the "American Jobs Act" by the end of the year, with the hope that it will provide a much-needed economic boost. If the plan fails, Obama's strategy will be to criticize congressional Republicans for hindering progress and blame them for the economic stagnation. On Thursday morning, White House Chief of Staff Bill Daley criticized the lack of action in Congress, urging them to do more than just reject everything proposed. Weak jobs data has raised concerns about a possible recession, leading the Federal Reserve to look into ways to stimulate demand. G7 finance ministers are meeting in France to discuss encouraging countries to do more to support growth. President Obama is facing pressure to prove his leadership abilities. His economic management has been criticized by members of both the Republican and Democratic parties, which is causing doubts about his chances for re-election in November 2012. Terry Madonna, a political scientist at Franklin and Marshall College in Pennsylvania, stated that this is a critical moment for Obama's leadership and that time is running out for voters to decide if his presidency has been successful. A recent poll showed that Obama is no longer the favorite to win next year. The White House has stated that Obama will emphasize the challenges facing the US economy and stress the importance of Washington's role in helping the job market recover, a message he will continue to promote as the 2012 election approaches. Last December, workers saw a renewal of payroll tax cuts and businesses were encouraged to hire through tax cuts, making them the main components of the jobs plan. The media has estimated that the package will cost $300 billion or more. According to White House senior adviser Valerie Jarrett, President Obama will present the jobs proposals to Congress in legislative form next week. The purpose of Thursday's speech was to emphasize the need for "shared responsibility" in addressing the economy's challenges, with Jarrett noting that it is not solely the president's responsibility. She stated that it is the responsibility of Congress, the business community, and the American people to engage in addressing the issue. The White House is aiming to pass legislation this year to reduce unemployment by spring 2012. In order to enhance his chances of being re-elected, Obama must be able to show economic progress by the middle of next year. If Congress fails to take action, the White House is ready to portray Republicans as hindering efforts to solve the unemployment issue. The contentious debate in July regarding the country's debt levels, which resulted in a ratings downgrade by Standard & Poor's, exposed a significant divide between Obama's Democrats and the Republicans who control the House of Representatives. Republicans have criticized the $800 billion economic stimulus package passed by Obama in 2009 as unnecessary spending and advocate for immediate deficit reduction. Democrats argue that while long-term deficits should be reduced, the economy requires a short-term fiscal boost. The White House has stated that the jobs package will be funded by future cuts, but has not provided specific details. Obama will urge the congressional "super committee" to surpass its $1.2 trillion budget savings target, but 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 in Obama's jobs plan to assist unemployed workers as a gesture of reconciliation. However, Mitch McConnell, the leading Republican in the Senate, dismissed the president's accusations of partisanship and stated that opposition to Obama's economic policies is based on their ineffectiveness rather than politics. McConnell characterized Obama's plan as a strategy for re-election rather than job creation. | 2 |
The former US spy agency contractor, Edward Snowden, finally departed from Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport on Thursday after being confined to its transit zone for nearly six weeks amidst a diplomatic battle between Russia and the United States over his future. Snowden, wanted by the US for leaking classified information about Internet and phone surveillance programs, now begins a new chapter in his life with a one-year asylum document that can be renewed annually. Former Russian intelligence officers warn that Snowden may face challenges ahead, citing past defections as examples. Despite his freedom in the transit zone, life as a defector can be difficult, as shown by historical cases such as NSA cryptologists William Martin and Bernon Mitchell who defected to the Soviet Union during the Cold War. British defectors like Kim Philby and Guy Burgess faced struggles and hardships after defecting, while George Blake seems to have had a more successful exile. The Cold War may be over, but the challenges for defectors remain the same. Snowden is seen as a valuable propaganda tool by the Kremlin, who frequently criticizes Washington for promoting human rights abroad while not practicing them at home. According to media expert Anna Kachkayeva, Snowden is no longer in control of his own actions and is now a political figure and a pawn. She describes him as a potential threat that may be used for a specific purpose and showcased on television, or perhaps not. The decision by the Kremlin to provide shelter to Snowden has been well-received by the Russian public. Many believe he is not a traitor and that Russia did the right thing by protecting him. A survey showed that 43 percent of Russians support harboring Snowden, while 29 percent are against it. Snowden has also received a marriage proposal from former Russian spy Anna Chapman and a job offer from a Russian social networking site. Anatoly Kucherena, a Russian lawyer assisting Snowden, has received letters from others seeking to hire him, ensuring that Snowden will have employment opportunities. "He mentioned to Reuters that it is possible that he will have his own TV show. The Kremlin has not shown any interest in making Snowden a television star, but Russian state television has already provided a platform for Julian Assange of Wikileaks to criticize the United States. Snowden will be staying with American expatriates who support his actions, and Kucherena plans to bring over Snowden's father, Lonnie, a US lawyer, and other friends for moral support. However, Snowden's value to Russia may decrease over time due to the changing political environment. According to ex-KGB officer Korolkov, defectors like Snowden bring knowledge, skills, and abilities with them, but this information can become outdated and lose its value. Some experts believe that Snowden may have traded some of his freedom for security in Russia." Misha Glenny, a British author specializing in Internet security and eastern Europe, suggested that Edward Snowden may be disappointed by Russia and find it challenging to participate in certain activities he wants to pursue. | 2 |
A new report by the United Nations has stated that the poverty rate in Bangladesh has decreased from 49 percent to 31 percent due to advancements in various aspects of human development. However, the rate of poverty reduction was not consistent across all regions, with some areas experiencing significant improvements while others, such as coastal or char areas, continue to struggle with high levels of poverty. UNDP country director Stefan Priesner noted these discrepancies during the report's launch. Despite this, 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 that there is no room for complacency. According to the report, Bangladesh's HDI improved from 0.497 to 0.5, with a notable advancement in addressing gender inequality. The country's overall inequality HDI decreased by seven percentage points, from 29% to 22%, demonstrating strong performance. Bangladesh was ranked just below Pakistan (0.504), with Delhi leading Dhaka in the rankings. The UN country director highlighted the need for Bangladesh to address environmental degradation, the adverse effects of climate change, and the risks of disasters in order to continue improving. He mentioned that the report highlights four main points: sustainable urbanization, addressing climate change, providing clean energy to those in need, and tackling environmental degradation. He also noted that the current rate of urbanization is not sustainable and climate change disproportionately affects the poor. Clean energy is essential 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 revealed that 5.6% of adults identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, compared to 4.5% in 2017. Over half of LGBT adults identified as bisexual. One in six Generation Z adults identified as LGBT. Gallup's senior editor, Jeffrey Jones, noted that the number of Americans identifying as LGBTQ is expected to rise, as younger generations are more likely to identify as such compared to older generations. Jones stated that Americans have become more supportive of equal rights for LGBTQ individuals, leading to an increase in the number of people who identify as LGBT. Sarah Kate Ellis, the president and CEO of GLAAD, a media organization and advocacy group for the LGBTQ community, believes that the findings demonstrate that visibility and acceptance will help individuals come out of the closet. The survey, which included over 15,000 interviews conducted in 2020 with Americans across all 50 states and the District of Columbia who were 18 or older, utilized both cellphone and landline interviews to ask participants how they identify themselves. In the recent poll conducted by Gallup, respondents were asked to select all identities that applied to them, including straight or heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. The margin of error for all adults was plus or minus 1 percentage point, while for LGBT adults it was plus or minus 5 percentage points. The identity question in this poll was more detailed than in previous years, with respondents providing their precise sexual orientation. The Supreme Court has made significant rulings in support of LGBTQ rights in recent years, such as granting federal benefits to married same-sex couples in 2013. In 2015, a court decision declared that same-sex marriage was a right for all across the nation. More recently, in June, it was ruled that civil rights laws also protected gay and transgender workers. Despite advancements, challenges persist for LGBTQ individuals. While many religious leaders have called for a global ban on conversion therapy, only about 20 states have implemented restrictions on this controversial practice. Throughout President Donald Trump's time in office, transgender rights were rolled back across the federal government. GLAAD's annual report 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 aimed at expanding protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. LGBTQ advocacy groups are pleased that Gallup's results align with their own polls, but believe there is still work to be done to ensure inclusivity for those who identify differently or are gender nonconforming. Amit Paley, CEO of the Trevor Project, emphasized the importance of recognizing the complexity of individuals' lived experiences. The poll also underscores the ongoing challenge of collecting accurate data on LGBTQ individuals to inform policy decisions. Paley stated that the true number of LGBTQ individuals in this country who die by suicide is unknown due to the lack of data on gender identity or sexual orientation in death records, effectively erasing the presence of LGBTQ individuals in a significant manner. | 2 |
The evening reception hosted by the Bangladesh High Commissioner to the UK, Mijarul Quayes, in partnership with BRAC and Oxfam, was attended by Parliamentarians, diplomats, civil society representatives, and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora. In his welcome speech, the High Commissioner discussed Bangladesh's socio-economic progress and the important role played by civil society organizations like Oxfam and BRAC. He praised Oxfam for their support during Bangladesh's Liberation War and post-war reconstruction efforts. BRAC UK's Chief Executive, Mary Garvey, highlighted the challenges that remain in areas such as child health and women's empowerment, but also commended Bangladesh for its progress with the support of organizations like Oxfam and BRAC. Oxfam Chief Executive, Mark Goldring, emphasized the importance of continued efforts to address challenges such as climate change and disaster preparedness in Bangladesh. | 2 |
During the political period from 2016 to 2020, the belief that liberalism was dominant was exaggerated. Although Donald Trump won the 2016 presidential election with fewer popular votes, more Americans voted for Republican congressional candidates than Democratic candidates. Additionally, more Americans voted for right-of-center presidential candidates, including the Libertarian vote, than for Hillary Clinton and Jill Stein. In terms of majority rule, liberalism did not deserve to win in 2016, even though Trump may not have deserved to win. Despite Republican advantages, Democrats were able to regain control of the House of Representatives in 2018, the presidency in 2020, and the Senate in 2021. The victories that occurred continued the trend seen in American politics in the 21st century, with significant shifts happening every few election cycles, rather than one party gaining long-term power. However, after 2024, the political landscape may resemble the challenges faced by liberalism during the Trump era. According to David Shor, a prominent figure in liberalism, a combination of an unfavorable Senate map for Democrats and their existing disadvantages in the Electoral College and Senate could lead to a situation where the party wins a majority of the popular vote in Congress and the presidency, but still loses the White House and faces a strong Republican majority in the Senate. This outcome would be a cause for concern for liberals, but conservatives should also be wary. In recent years, conservatives have emphasized the importance of institutions like the Senate and the Electoral College, arguing that the United States is a democratic republic, not a pure democracy. However, these arguments become less convincing as the system becomes more consistently undemocratic. The legitimacy of the Electoral College can withstand a close popular vote result going the other way, as can the Senate if it slightly favors one party but changes hands regularly. But if one party maintains power without majority support, it will lead to delegitimization and disillusionment. Simply relying on conservative columnists to defend the constitutional significance of state sovereignty will not be enough to address this issue. The Republican Party must strive to win majorities outright to avoid undermining the perceived legitimacy of conservative governance. A political party is unlikely to willingly give up its advantages, and there will never be a bipartisan constitutional amendment to abolish the Senate. However, it is reasonable to expect a party to strive for more electoral success, similar to past presidents like Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon, rather than relying on luck. In the current challenging political climate, the Republicans have an opportunity to win elections outright by taking reasonable positions and nominating strong candidates. This includes rejecting voter-fraud paranoia and moving away from divisive politics like the Tea Party era's "makers versus takers" ideology. And it indicates - and I am concerned that the GOP may not be able to do this - selecting a different candidate than Trump in 2024. Even if the Republican Party were able to secure popular majorities, their Senate or Electoral College majorities could still be increased due to their structural advantages. This kind of increase is common in many democratic systems, not just in the United States. It is distinct from consistently losing the popular vote but still gaining power. As for how the Democrats should address their shortcomings - that is a more extensive conversation, but two quick points for now. First, if the party wants to address its structural challenges, it needs to have a clear understanding of what type of electoral reforms would be effective. During the Biden era, liberal reformers focused on voting bills that ultimately did not pass and would not have significantly helped the party even if they had been successful. Statehood for the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, although not feasible at the moment, would address the challenges facing Democrats in the Senate. Therefore, pushing for an expanded Senate may be a more practical strategy for liberal activists and legislators. Second, if Democrats want to regain parity in the Senate and Electoral College without structural reform, they need to focus on appealing to culturally conservative Latinos and working-class whites who were part of Barack Obama's coalition but have since shifted towards the right. The faction would have two main objectives: to stick to a tested agenda on economic policy that differs from the business-friendly agenda supported by many centrist Democrats, and to consistently set itself apart from organized progressivism on cultural and social issues. It is crucial for this faction to do so based on principles rather than tactical strategies, so that voters who lean right can see that this faction truly believes in its moderation and its criticism of progressive beliefs, and that its members will continue to challenge progressivism even after they are elected. Currently, there are scattered politicians within the Democratic Party who somewhat align with this faction, but they lack a unified agenda, financial support from donors, and intellectual backing. However, necessity may soon force the Democratic Party to come together and address these issues. Copyright 2022 by The New York Times Company. | 2 |
The final version of the sci-fi comedy, featuring Adam Sandler and distributed by Sony Pictures Entertainment, no longer includes a scene where aliens attack iconic sites such as the Taj Mahal, the Washington Monument, and parts of Manhattan. The Great Wall was spared in order to secure approval for the movie's release in China. Sony executives made various changes to avoid any negative portrayal of China, including removing references to China as a potential attacker and a mention of a "Communist-conspiracy brother" hacking a mail server. These alterations were made to improve the chances of the movie's success at the global box office. Li Chow, the chief representative of Sony Pictures in China, advised senior Sony executives in a December 2013 email not to break a hole in the Great Wall, as it would not benefit the release of a film in China. This email was one of many confidential Sony emails and documents that were hacked and released to the public in late 2014. The US government attributed the breach to North Korea. In April, WikiLeaks made the emails, memos, and presentations from the Sony hack available in an online searchable archive. A spokesperson for Sony Pictures, a division of Sony Corp. based in Tokyo, stated that they will not be commenting on stolen emails or internal discussions regarding specific content decisions. They emphasized that many factors are considered when determining the best way to release a film, with creating content that appeals to a global audience without compromising creative integrity being a top priority. Requests for comments from Chinese government and film-industry officials were unanswered. In addition to "Pixels," emails showed that Sony executives also carefully reviewed the China content in other films, such as the 2014 remake of "RoboCop." One email from 2013 revealed a suggestion to relocate a multinational weapons conglomerate from China to a Southeast Asian country like Vietnam or Cambodia in order to make the film more acceptable to Chinese authorities. In the end, the change was not implemented, as seen in the movie. Bruno has now left Sony. The leaked Sony emails reveal the extent to which the movie studio practiced self-censorship in anticipation of Beijing's reaction. This highlights Hollywood's growing reliance on the Chinese market, where box office revenue increased significantly last year, while revenue in the US and Canada decreased. Other studios have also made alterations to their films to ensure they are approved for screening in China. A comparison between the Chinese and international versions of "Iron Man 3" reveals that the Chinese version included a scene with a Chinese doctor played by popular actress Fan Bingbing. The movie, produced by Marvel Studios, was the second highest-grossing film in China in 2013, although Marvel declined to comment on the changes made for the Chinese audience. Sony's decision to create a China-friendly version of "Pixels" was influenced by the logic of self-censorship, as explained by Steven O'Dell in a 2013 email about "RoboCop." The suggestion is to change all versions of the film rather than just the China version to avoid backlash from the press and bloggers who may compare the different versions. The US motion-picture industry's attempts to appeal to China coincide with a crackdown on civil society by President Xi Jinping's Communist Party. This crackdown has resulted in the detention of human rights lawyers and dissidents. As China's influence grows, its restrictions on civil liberties are affecting global audiences, as seen in the removal of scenes from "Pixels" to avoid offending Beijing. This illustrates how China's censorship standards are impacting the global film industry. Peter Shiao, CEO of Orb Media Group, a film studio specializing in Hollywood-Chinese co-productions, believes that studios have become more cautious in making movies, especially global blockbusters, to avoid offending the Chinese audience for social or political reasons. He noted that Sony's decision to release "The Interview" despite controversy and threats of violence was a truism in the industry. During his year-end White House press briefing, Obama expressed concern about the potential consequences of allowing intimidation to prevent the release of a satirical movie. He warned that if this behavior is tolerated, it could lead to censorship of documentaries and news reports as well. Obama emphasized the importance of not engaging in self-censorship to avoid offending those who may need their sensibilities challenged. He stated that this goes against the values of America. Hollywood studios are increasingly drawn to the Chinese box office due to its rapid growth, with box office receipts in China surpassing those in the United States and Canada. China is on track to set a new record for box office receipts this year. By early June 2015, the action movie "Fast & Furious 7" had become the top ticket seller in China, grossing $383 million, surpassing the $351 million earned in the United States and Canada combined. Following closely were "Avengers: Age of Ultron" and "Jurassic World." The vice president of the China Film Producers' Association, Wang Fenglin, predicted last November that the Chinese film market would surpass the United States to become the world's largest in three years. This prediction has influenced decisions made by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc, as seen in their 2012 remake of "Red Dawn," where the nationality of the invading soldiers was changed from Chinese to North Korean during post-production, according to producer Tripp Vinson. Requests for comment from MGM went unanswered. In order for a movie to be shown in China, it must first receive approval from the Film Bureau, led by Zhang Hongsen, a senior Communist Party member. Zhang has expressed the need for the Chinese film industry to grow and thrive in the face of increasing pressure from foreign films. The Film Bureau is a part of the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT), which is under the direct authority of China's State Council. The administration also oversees state-owned communication enterprises such as China Central Television and China Radio International. 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 honor and disrupts social stability. It also prohibits the promotion of public morality and national traditions. Additionally, SAPPRFT guidelines include bans on material that is critical of the government and political figures. These guidelines have expanded to cover new areas such as decadence, fortune telling, hunting, and sexuality, as outlined in an email sent by Sanford Panitch last November. Movie studios must collaborate with China Film Group Corp, a government-owned company that brings in and distributes international films. China Film Group Corp may also serve as an investor in some cases. Sony executives exchanged emails discussing a partnership where China Film Group Corp would finance 10 percent of the budget for "Pixels". The company is overseen by La Peikang, a member of the Communist Party and former deputy head of the Film Bureau. There is a strict limit of 34 foreign films allowed into China each year, operating under a revenue-sharing system where foreign studios receive 25 percent of box office earnings. According to the Sony emails, fourteen of the films must be in advanced formats like 3D or IMAX. The censorship process in China is seen as unpredictable. In early 2014, Sony was asked to remove a key scene from the movie "RoboCop" for Chinese audiences. An email from Steven O’Dell on January 28, 2014 expressed frustration with the censorship, stating that they were trying to keep the scene intact but may need to shorten it. The Sony executives are unsure about taking a stand on certain issues due to financial considerations, and they are worried about potential censorship in China under President Xi's government. Li Chow expressed doubts about the government's flexibility and noted that the censorship board members appear uncertain and overly cautious. The executives also discussed making changes to the script of "Pixels" to avoid offending Chinese authorities, including removing a scene where a hole is smashed in the Great Wall. She suggested that it would be better to show a large-scale global destruction with recognizable historical sites around the world being destroyed. She also recommended changing a scene where officials speculate that China could be responsible for an attack using unknown technology. Instead, in the final version, they speculate that Russia, Iran, or Google could be to blame. Li advised that China should be mentioned alongside other superpowers, but not in a negative light. She also suggested removing a scene involving the Great Wall, deeming it unnecessary. Additionally, Sony executives discussed moving a car-chase scene from Tokyo to Shanghai in order to potentially improve the film's release in China. Li Chow strongly advised against changing the location of the Pac-Man action from Tokyo to Shanghai due to concerns about potential destruction in the city and the sensitivity it may cause. She expressed uncertainty about whether it would be a problem, as there is an unwritten rule that it is acceptable as long as there is no real intention to destroy certain buildings or streets. However, she questioned where the line would be drawn. Ultimately, all references to China in the movie were removed, a decision that was likely made in early 2014. International executive O'Dell mentioned that Doug Belgrad, the then-President of Columbia Pictures, was going to follow Li's advice and remove all references to China from the movie Pixels. This decision was made in order to secure approval for the movie to be distributed in China. The cost of not receiving approval to release a film in China was evident in Sony emails, as shown by the case of "Captain Phillips." Despite expecting to earn $120 million globally from the movie, Sony executives were $9 million short after the film was not approved for release in China. "We must make every effort to obtain as much money as possible to achieve our goals. It is the responsibility of all of us to find ways to increase revenue from this film." Sony Pictures' president of worldwide distribution, Rory Bruer, expressed doubts in a December 2013 email that "Captain Phillips" would pass China's censorship. He pointed out that the film's plot involving the US military rescuing the captain could make Chinese officials uncomfortable. Bruer speculated that China would likely not approve the film for release. The US military's large presence is a key factor in the rescue of a US citizen, something China would not do or support. Additionally, the political message of the film is not something China would be comfortable with. However, Beijing has shown acceptance of the film "Pixels" by approving its release in China, with the film set to debut on September 15th. | 2 |
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