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Now, amidst the omicron spike and NBC’s choice not to broadcast the Golden Globes due to ethical concerns about the awarding organization, Hollywood's typically busy first week of the year has become very quiet. The AFI Awards were delayed, the Critics' Choice Awards were rescheduled to fill the gap left by the Globes, the Palm Springs Film Festival was canceled, and many award-winning films failed at the box office. The Academy Awards are still set to take place on March 27, with nominations being announced on February 8. However, it is unclear what the event will look like. The annual Governors Awards, which have honored recipients with honorary Oscars for the past 11 years in a non-televised ceremony, have already been postponed. Questions remain about whether there will be a host, a live audience, and most importantly, if anyone will watch the event. The Academy brought on a producer from the film "Girls Trip" in October to manage the show, but has not shared any more information and declined to comment. The situation in 2022 is starting to resemble that of 2021, with Hollywood once again missing out on its usual season of self-congratulation. This is affecting the film industry's main form of advertising, which is crucial for movies in need of promotion. This could potentially influence the types of movies that are produced. Nancy Utley, a former co-chair of Fox Searchlight, emphasized the importance of award shows for the box office and highlighted their significance in promoting smaller prestige films like "12 Years a Slave" and "The Shape of Water." "The acknowledgment there led to the decision to watch a smaller film. How can this be done in the current situation? It is difficult." Numerous high-quality films are released annually, with the hope that the majority of their earnings will come during the crucial period between the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards. The decline of the Golden Globes, which suffered from financial impropriety, questionable ethics, and a lack of diversity within the Hollywood Foreign Press Association responsible for the awards, has already damaged this cycle. If the awards season engine of the Hollywood hype machine falters, it could have a devastating impact on the already struggling box office. The large audience shift towards streaming services may be a permanent change, with only big movies like "Spider-Man: No Way Home" attracting significant numbers of theatergoers. Stephen Galloway, dean of Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, believes that the movie industry is in danger of collapsing as people are no longer in the habit of watching movies on the big screen. He also emphasizes the importance of award season in promoting the film industry, noting that the Academy Awards were established in 1929 to showcase Hollywood's accomplishments to a global audience. The television broadcast reached its peak with 55 million viewers, but that number has been declining for years. Last year, viewership hit an all-time low of 10.4 million for a show that had no host, no musical performances, and a best picture winner in "Nomadland" that was not widely seen. Hollywood had been planning a major effort to increase viewership, deploying top stars and directors to emphasize the importance of theaters in the midst of numerous streaming options. However, these efforts have not been successful. A majority of the public is still hesitant to go back to theaters regularly. Due to the pandemic, the release of "No Time to Die," Daniel Craig's final James Bond film, was delayed for over a year. When it finally came out, it only made $160.7 million in the United States and Canada, which was significantly less than previous Bond films like "Spectre" and "Skyfall." Despite receiving positive reviews, critically acclaimed films such as "Last Night in Soho," "Nightmare Alley," and "Belfast" had low box office sales. Even though Steven Spielberg's "West Side Story" has a high rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it has only earned $30 million domestically. The original film made $44 million in 1961, which would be equivalent to $409 million today. A recent study shows that 49% of moviegoers before the pandemic are no longer purchasing tickets, with 8% stating they will never return. This decline in ticket sales is particularly harmful for midbudget movies that rely on positive reviews and publicity to attract audiences. Some believe that midbudget films, which cost between $20 million and $60 million and are not based on popular intellectual property, may face permanent changes in the film industry. If changes in viewing habits are permanent and award nominations and wins no longer attract audiences, it will be much harder for movies to make a profit. If people only go to the movies to see popular films like "Spider-Man," it will be challenging to persuade them to also watch a film like "Belfast," a black-and-white reflection on childhood by Kenneth Branagh, in a theater rather than at home. According to Galloway, this not only impacts individual films and filmmakers, but also the entire art form itself. The art of cinema is delicate. Only "Dune" among the potential best-picture contenders released in theaters has surpassed $100 million at the box office. "King Richard" made $14.7 million and "Licorice Pizza" earned $7 million. According to film journalist Mark Harris, no non-genre adult dramas have made over $50 million. The landscape of the film industry has changed since 2019, when movies like "1917," "Ford v. Ferrari," and "Parasite" were successful. Despite this, studios are adapting, with MGM scaling back the release of "Licorice Pizza" after seeing other prestigious films struggle in wide releases. It is also being delayed in its release in Britain of the movie "Cyrano," featuring Peter Dinklage, until February in order to coincide with the US release, in hopes that older female moviegoers will be more likely to return to the cinema by then. Sony Pictures Classics is using the same strategy as in 2021, with more virtual screenings and Q&As to attract academy voters, as well as quicker home distribution. Their documentary "Julia," which is about Julia Child, was made available on premium video-on-demand during the holidays. While many studios held events with vaccination requirements in early December to combat the latest pandemic wave, in January, a lot of awards campaigning events, like screenings and parties, are being canceled or moved online. Billboards with the message "For your consideration" can still be seen in Los Angeles, but in-person meet-and-greets are currently on hold. Netflix, a studio that typically releases films in limited theaters and does not report box office results, is expected to have a strong presence in this year's award season with movies like "Tick, Tick ... Boom," "The Power of the Dog," and "The Lost Daughter" competing for awards. Like other studios, Netflix has shifted all in-person events for January to virtual. Michael Barker, co-president of Sony Pictures Classics, mentioned in a recent telephone interview that last year was a challenging adjustment and that this year will also require adapting to the current circumstances. Despite the challenges, he emphasized the importance of compensating and looking towards the future to see how the industry will change. | 2 |
Xi stated during a recent visit to Xi’an Jiaotong University that significant historical progress often follows major disasters. He believes that China has grown and strengthened as a nation through enduring hardship and suffering. Xi, who faced adversity in his youth, sees the pandemic as a chance to redeem the party and boost national pride in response to international criticism. State propaganda is supporting Xi's leadership in the fight against the pandemic. As the National People's Congress approaches, Xi aims to translate his calls for unity into action, with a focus on restoring the pre-pandemic agenda and eradicating extreme poverty. He warns against complacency that could lead to a second wave of infections. He must handle all of these tasks while the country is facing a diplomatic and economic environment as challenging as any since the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989. According to Carl Minzner, a professor at Fordham University, there is a lot of political risk involved in positioning oneself as a great leader capable of leading the country. Xi has presented himself as an essential leader defending China against significant threats, which has led to party members and the public rallying around him, despite concerns about the handling of the outbreak. Xi's first public appearance during the crisis came just two days after ordering the lockdown of Wuhan in late January, where the coronavirus outbreak originated. He led an unconventional televised meeting of the Politburo Standing Committee, the highest political body in the country, during a time when thousands were infected and many had died. According to a detailed report in People's Daily, the official newspaper of the Chinese Communist Party, he expressed difficulty sleeping the night before the Lunar New Year holiday and appeared to step back from his typical spotlight. Xi also relinquished control of the country's No... Premier Li Keqiang, one of China's leaders, was initially responsible for the government's emergency response, potentially positioning himself to take blame if the crisis worsened. However, as China gained control over the outbreak, the party's propaganda shifted focus back to Xi Jinping, pushing Li into the background. Li will be delivering a keynote report to the National People's Congress, but Xi is expected to receive the majority of media attention, providing guidance to provincial leaders and repeating policy priorities. Despite initial failures in the fight against the disease and international criticism, Xi remains confident in the government's actions, stating that they have been open, transparent, and responsible. Xi has cautioned that China is dealing with a world that is becoming more uncertain. He has balanced his optimistic outlook with concerns about potential economic crises, foreign conflicts, and political instability. In a recent address to the Politburo Standing Committee, he emphasized the need to prepare for prolonged changes in external conditions due to the global pandemic and economic shifts. The biggest obstacle may be the economy, which experienced its first contraction in over forty years of transformation. The Communist Party's legitimacy has long been supported by the increasing prosperity of millions of Chinese people. In recent weeks, President Xi Jinping has visited three provinces - Zhejiang, Shanxi, and Shaanxi - in an effort to refocus on the policy agenda that existed before the COVID-19 pandemic. Xi, wearing his typical dark blue windbreaker and a mask indoors, has toured factories, ports, government offices, and scenic areas to promote a return to normalcy while implementing new measures to prevent infection. In rural villages, he has shown interest in crops like wood ear fungus and chrysanthemums, which are essential for his anti-poverty efforts. The television news in China showed a man addressing a group of villagers in Shaanxi, praising their wood ear fungus and suggesting it could help lift them out of poverty. However, despite the Communist Party's efforts to portray China as overcoming the epidemic, a visit to Xi'an Jiaotong University revealed that life was still far from normal. The cheering crowd of students and professors appeared to be staged, as the university remained mostly closed. Xi joked about the situation, pointing out that school had not yet reopened. This article is copyrighted by The New York Times Company in 2020. | 2 |
Changla Mro and other women of the Mro ethnic group used to brave dangerous animals like snakes and wild pigs while trekking for hours to collect water. However, since a water collection and treatment system was installed a year ago, serving about 21 families in Bandarban district, these dangers have become a thing of the past. According to Changla Mro, two women were bitten by snakes while collecting water at night before the water plant was installed. Now, they no longer fear such attacks as they can get their water from the plant. The increasing demands on the world's limited fresh water supply due to deforestation, climate change, and population growth are a concern worldwide. The increasing importance of finding new ways to capture and preserve water to ensure a consistent supply throughout the year is becoming a top priority. In Bandarban, women are seen gathering water at the local water treatment plant, as reported by Thomson Reuters Foundation. In the Hill Tract area of Bangladesh, which spans 5,500 square miles and is home to both Bengali-speaking settlers and tribal people from 13 different ethnic groups, water is a scarce resource due to deforestation. The lack of trees has diminished the soil's ability to retain water, resulting in water shortages, especially during the dry season when most surface water evaporates. This issue is particularly severe in the districts of Bandarban, Rangamati, and Khagrhachharhi, where the Mro community resides. Kangchag Mro, aged 50, used to spend a lot of time searching for water in springs and streams and was worried about getting sick from waterborne diseases like diarrhoea and cholera. However, she is now able to access clean drinking water from taps at the community's water treatment plant, a small concrete building with a corrugated iron roof. She mentioned that collecting water in the hilly area used to be difficult, but the water plant has made it much easier. The water plant, funded by the Arannayk Foundation, a collaboration between the governments of Bangladesh and the US, is supplied by a hillside reservoir located 500 meters away. The artificial reservoir gathers water from the hills and transports it through a pipeline to a treatment facility where it is purified for household purposes. The effectiveness of the gravity flow water system, which eliminates the need for costly pumps, has led to discussions about expanding the system. Md Wali Ullah, the chief engineer of the Department of Public Health Engineering, mentioned that the government is exploring options to provide water to additional indigenous communities in the Hill Tract region. Ullah also noted that his department has submitted a proposal to other relevant government departments. There is a stream flowing in Bandarban, according to Thomson Reuters Foundation. Khamchang Mro, a leader of the Mro community, stated that they have recognized the value of forests in collecting and releasing rainfall to ensure a steady water supply to springs and canals. The community has been working on conserving forested areas, including reforesting degraded parts of their village forests, which has led to improved forest health. Farid Ahmed Khan, who serves as the executive director of Arannayk Foundation, emphasized that local communities must safeguard their forests as they have no other option. Khan cautioned that if forests continue to degrade, it will lead to a serious water crisis. In Bandarban, women collect water from the community water treatment plant, with a stream flowing nearby. (Thomson Reuters Foundation) | 2 |
The recent riots in the district have created lasting divisions within the community, reflecting a nationwide trend of tensions over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist agenda. In Yamuna Vihar and other riot-hit districts in northeast Delhi, many Hindus are boycotting Muslim merchants and refusing to hire workers from the Muslim community. Meanwhile, Muslims are struggling to find jobs due to the economic pressures of the coronavirus pandemic. Yash Dhingra, a shop owner in Yamuna Vihar, has decided to only hire Hindu workers, stating, "I have identified new workers, they are Hindus." The riots in the Indian capital, which were sparked by a citizenship law seen as discriminatory against Muslims, resulted in the deaths of at least 53 people, mostly Muslims, and left over 200 injured. The violence has left a lasting impact on Yamuna Vihar, with destroyed homes and dangerous conditions in the neighborhood. Hindu residents are now boycotting Muslim workers, affecting various professions in the area. Dhingra stated that they have evidence indicating that Muslims initiated the violence and are now shifting blame onto them. This behavior is seen as typical for them as they are viewed as criminal-minded individuals. These sentiments were echoed by 25 Hindus interviewed in northeast Delhi, many of whom experienced significant financial losses or injuries during the riots. Reuters also interviewed around 30 Muslims, the majority of whom claimed that Hindus had stopped cooperating with them. Suman Goel, a 45-year-old housewife who has lived among Muslim neighbors for 23 years, expressed shock over the violence. "It's a strange feeling to no longer feel like you belong, to walk outside your home and purposely avoid smiling at Muslim women," she expressed. "I'm sure they must be feeling the same way, but it's better to keep our distance." Mohammed Taslim, a Muslim who ran a shoe business from a store owned by a Hindu in Bhajanpura, a neighborhood impacted by the riots, shared that his merchandise was destroyed by a Hindu mob. Subsequently, he was forced out and his space was given to a Hindu businessman. Taslim believes this happened solely because of his religion. Many Muslims believe that hardline Hindus were behind the attack in response to protests against the new citizenship law. Adil, a Muslim research assistant in central Delhi, stated that safety is now the top priority for Muslims, overshadowing careers and business opportunities. Adil chose not to reveal his full name due to fears of retaliation. Emboldened by Modi's decisive victory in 2014, extremist groups have pushed forward with a Hindu-first agenda that has marginalized the country's Muslim minority. Vigilantes have targeted and killed Muslims involved in transporting cows, viewed as sacred by Hindus, to slaughterhouses. The government has taken a hardline stance towards Pakistan and revoked semi-autonomous privileges for Jammu and Kashmir, India's only Muslim-majority state. In a controversial move, the Supreme Court permitted the construction of a Hindu temple at Ayodhya, where a mosque was destroyed by a right-wing mob in 1992. The Citizenship law, which facilitates citizenship for non-Muslims from neighboring Muslim-majority countries, has sparked widespread protests among Muslims and secular Indians. Modi's office did not reply to Reuters' inquiries regarding the recent violence. In Delhi districts heavily affected by the unrest in February, Hindus and Muslims avoid each other during the day but are separated by barricades at night for safety. Some areas are even constructing permanent barriers. Recently, Tarannum Sheikh, a schoolteacher, observed welders installing a gate at the entrance of a narrow lane leading to the Muslim enclave of Khajuri Khas where she resides. She stated that the goal was to prevent Hindus from entering. She explained that they carry wooden batons to guard the entrance because they believe that trouble could arise at any moment. She also mentioned that they no longer have faith in the police. In the nearby Hindu community of Bhajanpura, residents shared a similar lack of trust and feeling of vulnerability. A 52-year-old grandmother named Santosh Rani expressed that the riots were necessary to bring Hindus together, as they had not realized the presence of such malicious individuals around them for many years. She mentioned that she had to lower her two grandchildren from the first floor of her house to the street below due to the building being set on fire in the violence, reportedly by a Muslim. Rani, who owns multiple factories and retail shops, stated that the Muslims had pushed their limits this time and that they would no longer be given job opportunities. She expressed that she would never be able to forgive them. Hasan Sheikh, a tailor who has been sewing clothes for Hindu and Muslim women for more than 40 years, shared that Hindu customers came to pick up their unstitched clothes after the riots. Sheikh, who is Muslim, found it unusual to see how their relationship had come to an end. The social atmosphere in this region is highly charged, with both sides feeling justified in their hatred. Neither I nor my female clients were to blame. | 2 |
Chickens and pigs around the world are helping to reduce global warming by producing less methane compared to cows and sheep. Methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, is often overlooked in comparison to carbon dioxide but is crucial in the fight against climate change. Government policies and a UN-supported emission credit system are benefiting investors, farmers, and large polluters by allowing them to offset their greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide. Methane is much more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide and can be easily captured from animal waste, landfills, coal mines, or leaky natural gas pipes. "A fifth of all greenhouse gas-induced global warming has been attributed to methane since pre-industrial times," stated climate scientist Paul Fraser of Australia. Methane levels in the atmosphere have risen significantly since 1750, surpassing the natural range of the past 650,000 years according to the UN's climate panel. Human activities are primarily responsible for this increase, particularly in countries like Australia where ruminant farm animals release large amounts of methane. The panel will be addressing ways to reduce methane and other greenhouse gas emissions in a major report on climate change mitigation to be released in Bangkok in early May. "It has been suggested that reducing methane emissions may be more cost-effective than reducing carbon dioxide emissions," noted Bill Hare, climate policy director for Greenpeace and a lead author of the mitigation report. He mentioned that in the United States, policy discussions have largely focused on methane rather than more challenging issues like CO2 emissions from coal. This is because capturing methane from sources like landfills, mines, and fossil fuel production or natural gas lines is relatively simple and economically viable. Methane, a key component of natural gas, can be used to generate power. Hare noted that agriculture presents a greater challenge, especially in regards to methane emissions from livestock and rice agriculture, where changing practices may require longer time scales compared to industrial areas. It is a matter of finding the right balance. Rice paddies and other irrigated crops, along with natural wetlands, release significant amounts of methane. Additionally, large quantities of methane are stored in sub-polar regions under ice, in permafrost, and under the sea. There are various potential solutions to reduce methane emissions, such as additives for livestock and transitioning from intensive feedlots to range-fed animals. Changing the timing and method of flooding rice paddies could also help mitigate methane emissions. Despite methane levels stabilizing around 1999, the amount of methane in the atmosphere remains constant for now, according to Fraser, who leads Australia's government-funded Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation's Changing Atmosphere Research Group. This is believed to occur because the decrease in tropical wetlands is offsetting an increase in emissions from the oil and gas industry. The duration of this phenomenon is uncertain. "Many believe that methane levels will eventually rise again due to the global demand for natural gas, rice, and cattle," Fraser commented. This is why chicken manure and pig waste are in high demand. The Clean Development Mechanism under the UN's Kyoto Protocol allows wealthy countries to meet their emission targets by funding projects that reduce greenhouse gases in developing nations, in exchange for carbon credits. This has led to significant investments in large pig farms in South America and poultry farms in India. The waste from these farms is processed in digesters to extract methane, which is then used to generate electricity or burned to create CO2. This method is seen as a lesser evil in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. Interest in these types of projects is growing, according to N Yuvaraj Dinesh Babu from the Singapore-based Carbon Exchange. The Kyoto system of emissions credits has been popular, with the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change approving many methane-abatement projects in recent years and considering more. However, Stephan Singer from the conservation group WWF believes this is not the complete solution. He suggests that more attention should be focused on controlling carbon dioxide emissions and the sources of methane that are harder to control. Only around 50 percent of methane emissions are currently being controlled, specifically from landfills, coal mines, and the oil and gas industry, according to Singer, who leads WWF's European Energy and Climate Policy Unit. He is concerned about the increasing methane emissions from ruminants, particularly due to the rising beef consumption in a wealthier world. The Western diet has a significant impact on the environment. In the US, cattle release about 5.5 million tonnes of methane annually, making up 20 percent of the country's methane emissions, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency. In New Zealand, around half of all greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture. Singer is most concerned about a sudden release of methane from sub-polar permafrost or methane hydrate deposits under the sea. While this has not happened yet, some scientists believe it could happen in a warmer climate. Singer believes that if methane hydrates were to leak, it would be catastrophic. | 2 |
French President Nicolas Sarkozy is meeting with unions on Wednesday in an attempt to reach an agreement on economic stimulus plans and prevent further protests due to increasing unemployment and declining growth. Over a million people protested in France recently against Sarkozy's policies, demanding higher wages and job security during the economic downturn. Unions have planned another protest next month. Sarkozy's 26 billion euro stimulus plan has mainly focused on public spending projects rather than directly aiding consumers and workers, leading unions and the political left to urge him to reconsider his approach. A television appearance following the protests did not help improve Sarkozy's support. According to Saturday's edition of Le Figaro, which is known for its close ties to Sarkozy, the President expressed concerns about the potential impact on his five-year term. The French economy experienced a significant decline in the last quarter of 2008, with a 1.2 percent drop in GDP - the largest in 34 years. Unemployment also rose by 11 percent compared to the previous year. Protests in Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Reunion have been fueled by demands for higher minimum wage and lower prices for food and fuel. There is a growing worry that these demonstrations could spread to the mainland, as indicated by a recent poll showing 63 percent of respondents believe they may occur soon. The opposition Socialists are putting pressure on Sarkozy by proposing a 1 percentage point cut in value-added tax and a 3 percent increase in the minimum wage to stimulate consumer spending before the "social summit" on Wednesday. Despite calls for action from national unions, Sarkozy has been hesitant to boost consumer spending, leading to concerns about potential protests. Socialist Dider Migaud criticized France for not taking immediate action to improve purchasing power, a move supported by economists. Sarkozy argues that increasing public debt should only be done for investments in the future rather than for consumer spending, which has traditionally driven French growth. He may point to the recent increase in household consumption as evidence that consumers are already spending. Britain reduced its value-added tax by 2 percentage points, a decision that was criticized by Sarkozy during a television address. This move was seen as unproductive by Sarkozy, causing tension with Downing Street. Despite this, Sarkozy has expressed willingness to explore alternatives such as lowering low-level income tax and increasing unemployment benefits. However, his employment minister and social affairs adviser remain opposed to raising the minimum wage, citing concerns that it could negatively impact struggling companies. Employment Minister Laurent Wauquiez described it as an unrealistic idea that could lead to business closures. | 2 |
Japanese opposition leader Ichiro Ozawa has decided to step down on Monday following a fundraising scandal, which has hurt his party's chances in the upcoming election. This move is expected to improve his party's prospects and potentially lead them to victory, ending the long-standing rule of Prime Minister Taro Aso's Liberal Democratic Party. Despite initial optimism, the Democratic Party's lead in polls has decreased after the scandal, creating uncertainty about the outcome of the election. Ozawa stated that his resignation is a sacrifice to strengthen party unity and secure a clear victory in the election. The Democratic Party aims to reduce bureaucratic interference, prioritize consumer and worker rights, and adopt a more independent diplomatic stance from the United States. Ozawa's departure is not expected to change the current political positions, but it may prompt the ruling LDP to introduce additional stimulus plans to attract voters. A spending package of 15 trillion yen is already making its way through parliament. Financial markets showed little reaction to Ozawa's resignation, with the yen trading slightly lower initially but remaining mostly unchanged throughout the day. Prime Minister Aso stated that Ozawa's resignation would not affect the timing of any upcoming elections, with speculation pointing towards a possible August vote. Hidenori Suezawa, chief strategist at Daiwa Securities SMBC, suggested that now that Ozawa is no longer in the picture, Prime Minister Aso may focus more on economic stimulus to attract voters instead of dissolving parliament. Analysts believe that while replacing Ozawa may increase the Democrats' electoral prospects, not all the negative effects of his leadership will be easily reversed. Independent political commentator Minoru Morita noted that there was widespread dissatisfaction with Ozawa, and his departure is seen as a positive development for the Democrats. Ozawa's departure could pave the way for a younger leader to take over, with potential candidates being former party leaders Katsuya Okada, known for advocating tougher climate policies and considered a top contender, and Seiji Maehara, an expert in conservative security policies. Other former leaders who served as Ozawa's deputies, Yukio Hatoyama and Naoto Kan, are also being considered as possible successors. Ozawa, a skilled campaign strategist, has been a prominent figure in Japanese politics for nearly two decades, having left the LDP and briefly replaced it with a pro-reform coalition. The impact of his resignation on the Democrats' prospects will depend, in part, on his replacement and how smoothly the transition occurs. "It is a necessary step in addressing the party's image issues." Gerry Curtis, a Columbia University professor and expert in Japanese politics, raised questions about the process of choosing the next leader of the Democratic Party, as well as how that leader would perform. According to a Democratic Party source, the next leader is likely to be chosen through a vote among party lawmakers, potentially happening within a week or 10 days. A survey conducted by the Yomiuri newspaper before Ozawa's announcement showed that the Democrats maintained a slight lead over the LDP, but many respondents questioned Ozawa's decision to stay on. Yukihiro Nakagawa, an executive at a precision machinery company, mentioned that he had planned to submit a blank paper when casting his vote if Ozawa had stayed, but is now considering voting for the Democrats depending on the policies they promise. A recent survey conducted by the Yomiuri newspaper revealed that 30 percent of respondents would support the Democrats in the upcoming election, while 27 percent would support the LDP. Some analysts believe that Ozawa's resignation may lead to renewed efforts within the LDP to replace the unpopular Aso, although others argue that finding a suitable successor may prove challenging and that Aso will likely strive to retain his position. | 2 |
Maibam Sharat, the second in a group of six friends walking past a security post in Manipur, India, with his hands raised, witnessed a soldier from an armoured car opening fire. The shooting resulted in his friend Ranbir being injured and bleeding from the stomach. The troops, who were in the area to combat separatist militants, initially took him to their camp instead of seeking medical assistance. Despite local pressure, it took four hours for Ranbir to receive medical attention, by which time he had succumbed to his injuries from seven bullets and severe blood loss. Sharat, a driver from Nongpok Semai, speculated that the soldiers may have been acting out of frustration and anger following an earlier attack by militants. Human rights organizations and political parties are condemning Ranbir's killing as part of a pattern of abuses by the military in Manipur, where the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) provides soldiers with virtual immunity from prosecution. The AFSPA has become a major issue as Manipur begins voting for a new legislature, with most parties agreeing that the law should be either repealed or significantly revised. Sovakiran Singh, a legislator from the Heirok constituency where the incident took place, has promised that if his party comes to power, they will work to repeal the AFSPA in the new legislature's first session. Despite this, New Delhi retains the power to override the state government and reinstate the law. Singh is hopeful that the government will take action in response to the pressure from Manipur, where 20,000 people have died in a separatist rebellion since the 1960s. The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) grants troops extensive powers to search, arrest, and kill suspected militants, even in the absence of an immediate threat. Troops can only be prosecuted with permission from the central government, which is rarely granted. This law, enacted in 1958 to combat armed separatist militancy in northeast India, is said by the army to provide necessary protection from politically motivated charges. However, rights groups argue that the powers granted by AFSPA have created an environment where security forces can commit human rights abuses with impunity, including torture, rape, and murder. They argue that this has only increased anger and led to more rebels. Pradip Phanjoubam, editor of the Imphal Free Press, described AFSPA as a result of the state's extreme paranoia. A senior official from the Border Security Force, whose soldiers were part of the Nongpok Sekmai incident, claimed that they were responding to gunfire from militants. However, very few people in the village trust his explanation. Manipur, located 1,500 miles (2,400 km) from New Delhi, is considered one of India's most troubled areas, yet it remains largely overlooked by the nation. Soldiers have been present in various areas, leading to multiple incidents of unrest in the past five years due to accusations of killing civilians. Despite protests, there was a slight increase in extra-judicial killings last year, according to Babloo Loitongbam, director of Manipur's Human Rights Alert. Phanjoubam and Loitongbam believe that New Delhi should prioritize a political solution rather than a military one to address the insurgency in Manipur and improve development in the state. However, it is uncertain if political parties in the region can effectively advocate for change. The Congress party, currently in power in Manipur since 2002, has been hesitant in making a decision on AFSPA. Sonia Gandhi, the party chief, assured Manipuris that the government is actively considering the recommendations of an expert panel regarding changes to the law, which were made 18 months ago. However, many people in Manipur are still doubtful about whether any changes will actually be implemented. | 2 |
The couple, who had planned to visit the Terracotta Warriors on Oct 16, tested positive for the coronavirus on that day. Following their positive test results, China has implemented lockdowns in a city of 4 million people, as well as in smaller cities and parts of Beijing, in order to contain a recent outbreak that has affected over 240 individuals in at least 11 provinces and regions. Schools and tourist sites have been closed, and government websites have provided detailed information about the couple's movements and contacts, including where they stayed at hotels and which floors they visited in restaurants. This response reflects China's strict "zero COVID" policy, which has been successful in keeping the country's death toll from the pandemic at less than 5,000. The size of the recent outbreak in China, although small compared to other countries, is significant for China. However, China's policy of pursuing full eradication of the virus has made it stand out as an outlier compared to other countries like New Zealand and Australia that have begun to reopen. A spokesperson for the National Health Commission emphasized the importance of maintaining the policy of defending against imported cases and preventing any resurgence of the virus. The existing control measures must remain in place. The stringent approach taken by the government is the result of specific Chinese considerations. Strong export performance has been crucial in maintaining the economy. The Communist Party's firm control allows for efficient implementation of lockdowns and testing. Beijing is preparing to host the Winter Olympics in February, and many Chinese take pride in the low number of cases. Xi Jinping, the leader of China, has frequently cited the country's successful containment efforts as evidence of the effectiveness of its governance system. However, experts, both in China and internationally, have cautioned that this strategy may not be sustainable. China could risk becoming increasingly isolated on both diplomatic and economic fronts, especially as global public opinion turns against it. Lynette Ong, a political scientist at the University of Toronto, believes that the Chinese regime feels the need to maintain a 'zero COVID' policy in order to uphold its legitimacy, despite the high costs involved. During the early stages of the pandemic, the Chinese Communist Party's ability to control the virus appeared crucial to its grasp on power. China initially tried to hide the outbreak in Wuhan, which caused public outrage. However, as the virus spread globally, China's strict measures and successful control of the outbreak became an example for other countries. Xi Jinping highlighted China's speedy recovery compared to the rising death tolls in western democracies. Anger over the initial handling of the Wuhan outbreak turned into strong nationalism, with countries praising those with "zero COVID" policies for prioritizing lives over convenience and economy. As the pandemic continues into its second year and the delta variant spreads, nations are reevaluating their approaches. Australia, which had the longest lockdown, is now lifting quarantine for vaccinated residents returning from abroad. New Zealand has officially dropped its pursuit of zero cases. Singapore is allowing vaccinated tourists from countries like Germany, the United States, and France to travel without quarantine. However, China has decided not to make any changes to its current policies. Zhang Wenhong, a well-known infectious disease expert from Shanghai, faced harsh criticism online when he suggested that China should adapt to living with the virus. A former Chinese health minister labeled this mindset as irresponsible. Ong mentioned that the government is hesitant to accept any opinions that may challenge its belief in successfully handling the pandemic. She mentioned that outbreaks have become so common that they are no longer considered significant. However, the Chinese government is keen on managing any potential sources of instability. Another reason for China's caution is the unequal distribution of medical resources, with most being concentrated in major cities. This could lead to smaller areas being overwhelmed by an increase in cases. Despite achieving a high vaccination rate of 75%, doubts have been raised about the effectiveness of China's own vaccines. Nevertheless, the strategy of eliminating the virus seems to be supported by the public. Residents in areas with strict lockdowns have expressed frustration with what they see as unfair and excessive social restrictions, while travel remains largely unrestricted in areas that have not had any cases. The wealthy have been investing in luxury items and expensive cars instead of spending on international trips. Zhang believes that as long as people can still move around freely, strict COVID-zero policies may not seem too harsh to the local population. However, governments that have opted to live with the virus may reconsider their approach if cases start to rise. Singapore, for example, lifted restrictions over the summer but had to reinstate them in September due to a sudden increase in infections. However, despite the government's decision to continue with travel lanes, experts believe that the costs of aiming for zero cases will eventually be felt. China's economy is slowing down, with domestic travel during a recent weeklong holiday declining compared to last year due to new cases scaring off tourists. Retail sales have been inconsistent, fluctuating with the waves of the virus. Additionally, there could be diplomatic consequences for the country. Xi has not left China or met with foreign visitors since early 2020, while other world leaders are preparing to meet in Rome for a Group of 20 summit and Glasgow for climate talks. China's tough stance is also affecting Hong Kong, which is a semi-autonomous territory and global financial center. Hong Kong's leaders, in an effort to align their COVID prevention policies with mainland China's, have implemented the world's longest quarantine. Despite warnings from business leaders about foreign firms leaving, supporters of the restrictions are questioning if there is an exit strategy. Jason Qiu, 27, who grew up near Lanzhou in Gansu province, believes the current policies are going in the right direction. “If current circumstances persist for an extended period, such as the potential continuation of the pandemic for five to ten years or its transition into an endemic state, it may be necessary to consider implementing changes to existing measures. Some officials have cautiously discussed the idea of easing restrictions in response to these concerns. Gao Fu, the leader of China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention, suggested in a recent interview that once the country achieves an 85% vaccination rate, it may be appropriate to consider reopening. However, he emphasized that this decision is complex and sensitive. In the meantime, individuals affected by lockdowns are adapting to their situations as best as possible. For instance, approximately 10,000 tourists are currently stranded in Ejin Banner, Inner Mongolia, due to lockdown measures. To provide some relief, the local tourism association has offered these individuals free access to three popular tourist sites, valid for the next three years.” Copyright 2021 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
The remains of a communist-era death camp can be found in the dense forests of the idyllic Danube island of Persin, where the endangered sea eagle and pygmy cormorant reside. From 1949-59, hundreds of "enemies of the regime" died in Bulgaria's Belene concentration camp due to beatings, malnutrition, and exhaustion, with dead bodies being fed to pigs. Despite being largely forgotten twenty years after the fall of communism, only a small marble plaque tells the camp's horrific story. Nostalgia for the past is growing in Bulgaria and the former Soviet bloc as capitalism's shortcomings in improving living standards, enforcing the rule of law, and reducing corruption and nepotism have led to fond memories of a time when unemployment was low, food was affordable, and social safety was high. Rumen Petkov, a former guard turned clerk at the only functioning prison on Persin island, mentioned that the negative aspects have been forgotten. He noted that nostalgia is strong among the elderly, especially in front of the deteriorating buildings of an old jail that was opened after the camp shut down in 1959. In the 1980s, ethnic Turks were imprisoned by the communists for refusing to change their names to Bulgarian. Some young residents of the impoverished town of Belene, connected to the island by a pontoon bridge, also express longing for the past, with Anelia Beeva saying they had a better quality of life with holidays to the coast and mountains, as well as an abundance of clothes, shoes, and food. Currently, a large portion of our earnings is used for food expenses. Individuals with higher education degrees are struggling to find employment and are often forced to relocate to other countries. In Moscow, a number of restaurants with Soviet themes have emerged, hosting events where young individuals dress up as pioneers and dance to communist music. Soviet Champagne and Red October Chocolates are still popular choices for birthday celebrations. Additionally, "USSR" merchandise like T-shirts and baseball caps are commonly sported in Russia during the summer months. While there is little desire to bring back old regimes, analysts argue that apathy is a significant result. Bulgarian sociologist Vladimir Shopov wrote that nostalgia can harm the drive for meaningful change by depleting energy. Disenchantment with democracy is prevalent in former communist eastern Europe, with mistrust towards the elites who facilitated EU citizenship. A regional poll by US Pew research center in September revealed a significant decline in support for democracy and capitalism in countries such as Ukraine, Bulgaria, Lithuania, and Hungary. The poll indicated that only 30 percent of Ukrainians approved of the shift to democracy in 2009, a sharp decline from 72 percent in 1991. In Bulgaria and Lithuania, the percentage of the population affected by the economic downturn decreased from almost three-quarters in 1991 to just over half. According to surveys conducted by the US-based human rights group Freedom House, there has been a decline or lack of progress in corruption, governance, independent media, and civil society in the new EU-member states. The global economic crisis has impacted the region, leading to the end of several years of growth and challenging the neoliberal capitalism model promoted by the West. Instead of aspiring to reach the economic level of their wealthy Western neighbors, people in these countries now feel a sense of injustice due to the widening gap between the rich and the poor. In Hungary, where the economic downturn has been particularly severe, a survey conducted by pollster Szonda Ipsos in October revealed that 70 percent of adults who were already of age in 1989 were disappointed with the outcomes of the regime change. People in the former Yugoslav countries, who were affected by the ethnic wars in the 1990s and are still not part of the EU, often feel nostalgic for the socialist era of Josip Broz Tito. During that time, they were able to travel throughout Europe without needing a visa. Belgrade pensioner Koviljka Markovic, 70, reminisced about the past, saying that everything was better back then. There was minimal street crime, job security, and salaries were sufficient for a decent standard of living. Nowadays, Markovic struggles to make ends meet with her monthly pension of 250 euros ($370). In Bulgaria, some people view the 33-year rule of the late dictator Todor Zhivkov as a golden era compared to the widespread corruption and crime that followed his downfall. More than 60 percent of people believe they had a better life in the past, despite having to deal with long shopping lines, relying on social connections for valuable goods, not being able to access jeans and Coca Cola, and waiting up to 10 years to buy a car. Historians Andrei Pantev and Bozhidar Gavrilov noted in a book about Bulgaria's history that for some Bulgarians, security was more important than freedom. Even after nearly three years of being a part of the EU, Bulgaria still has the lowest average monthly salary and pension in the union. Countries like Poland and the Czech Republic, which joined the EU in 2004, also have lower incomes compared to western European countries. A 2008 survey by Gallup identified Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania as some of the most dissatisfied countries in the world. Zsofia Kis, a 23-year-old student in Budapest, expressed that the previous generation, our parents, were content with what they had, unlike the current trend of wanting more. She mentioned how communist regimes artificially kept unemployment rates low. After years of slow and difficult reforms, many people are now unwilling to make further sacrifices required for a complete overhaul of the economy and judiciary. This has led to demoralization and increased support for political parties advocating for stricter measures. Former KGB agent Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has referred to the collapse of the Soviet Union as the most significant geopolitical disaster of the century. Critics of the Kremlin believe that there is a gradual attempt to rehabilitate the Soviet Union in order to justify the government's control over the media and opposition. Historian Nikita Petrov from the Memorial human rights group has noted a trend of idealizing the Soviet past as a deliberate strategy to make the Soviet authorities appear favorable to the current generation. In Bulgaria, powerful individuals known as oligarchs who have significant control over various sectors of the economy have emerged from the former communist party and its feared secret services. The names of corrupt politicians and crime bosses are widely known, yet Bulgaria has not successfully prosecuted any high-ranking officials for corruption since 1989, with only one gang boss being jailed. There have been no convictions for the crimes committed during the communist era. Commonly used terms among Bulgarians include "dalavera", a Turkish word for fraud, "mutri", a term for unsightly mafiosi, and "mente", which refers to counterfeit goods. Many people are beginning to lose faith in the possibility of achieving success through honest and ethical means. According to Boriana Dimitrova of Bulgarian polling agency Alpha Research, success is seen as illegal. In the Balkans, which is considered Europe's poorest region, there is a strong feeling of unfairness due to the existence of powerful hidden systems of control. Some believe that while the old regime was oppressive, it at least maintained law and order. Prime Minister Boiko Borisov of the centre-right populist GERB party won a decisive election victory in Bulgaria in July by promising to put an end to the culture of impunity. Analysts suggest that in the face of public discontent and economic decline, only populist governments can stay in power in the region. Ivan Krastev from Sofia's Liberal Strategies Institute expressed that the high level of mistrust towards the political elite and institutions makes it difficult to persuade people to cooperate with unpopular governments. Some individuals in Bulgaria believe that the West is being hypocritical by accepting former communist officials into positions of power. The election of Bulgarian Irina Bokova, a former communist official, as the head of UNESCO was seen as a clear example of this hypocrisy. Critics argue that Bokova's past played a significant role in her career advancement. Despite this, some eastern Europeans believe they have successfully adopted capitalist ideals, particularly in terms of materialism. During the boom years, many loans were used to purchase luxury items such as fancy cars, yachts, flat TV screens, designer clothes, and to fund exotic trips abroad. There was also a trend of adopting Western standards, including giving babies Western names and watching reality shows like "Big Brother". Renowned Bulgarian artist, Nikola Manev, living in Paris, expressed concern that Bulgaria was becoming too Americanized, with people speaking English and restaurants named after American cities. He questioned why Bulgarian culture was being overshadowed. He observed that despite the new buildings, shops, and shiny cars on the surface, people have actually become more unhappy, aggressive, and sad. He recommended spiritual remedies for this issue. This fall, tickets for Sofia's theaters are selling out weeks in advance, which is a first in many years. | 2 |
The journalists Maria Ressa from the Philippines and Dmitry Muratov from Russia were awarded for their brave efforts in defending freedom of expression, a crucial element for democracy and peace. The committee praised them as representatives of all journalists who fight for these principles in a world where democracy and press freedom are under increasing threat. Maria Ressa, a Fulbright scholar and Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2018, has been a vocal critic of her country's authoritarian leader, Rodrigo Duterte. Through her media company Rappler, she has exposed government corruption, investigated the financial interests of top officials, and shed light on the violent anti-drug campaign under Duterte's administration, which the committee likened to a war against the Filipino population due to the high number of deaths. Ressa and Rappler have also reported on how social media is being utilized to disseminate false information, intimidate opponents, and influence public discussions. Ressa, the 18th woman to receive the Peace Prize in its 120-year history, expressed her gratitude during a Facebook Live broadcast on Rappler's platform, stating that she hopes the award acknowledges the challenges faced by journalists today. Muratov, who has been advocating for freedom of speech in Russia for many years, has faced increasing obstacles in his work. Following the announcement of the award, the Kremlin intensified its crackdown on dissenters, branding nine journalists and activists as "foreign agents." Despite facing threats, violence, and even killings, Novaya Gazeta, an independent newspaper co-founded by Muratov in 1993, has continued to operate under his leadership as editor-in-chief since 1995. Since its establishment, six journalists from the newspaper have been killed, according to the committee, which mentioned Anna Politkovskaya, known for her articles on the Chechnya war. The committee commended editor-in-chief Muratov for maintaining the newspaper's independent stance despite the threats and violence. Muratov has consistently supported journalists' right to write freely, as long as they adhere to professional and ethical standards. Many Russian dissidents had anticipated that the award would go to Alexei Navalny, the imprisoned opposition leader, and were disappointed by the decision. Muratov expressed surprise at receiving the award and stated that he would have given it to Navalny. He mentioned that he missed several calls from Norway on the day of the announcement but was informed by his press secretary just before the news broke. He mentioned that he would donate a portion of the prize money to the battle against spinal muscular atrophy, a cause he has supported for a long time, and to assist journalism in resisting pressure from Russian authorities. Muratov stated in a radio interview on Friday that the fight against the media is essentially a fight against the people. This year marked only the third occasion in the 120-year history of the prize that journalists were recognized for their efforts towards promoting peace. Ernesto Moneta, an editor of a newspaper and a leader in the Italian peace movement, was the recipient in 1907. Carl von Ossietzky, a German journalist, pacifist, and critic of Nazism who was incarcerated by Hitler, received the prize in 1935. The Nobel committee selected from a pool of 329 candidates, which was one of the largest ever considered. The favorites included climate-change activists, political dissidents, and scientists who contributed to battling the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee emphasized the importance of free and independent journalism in preventing abuse of power, lies, and war propaganda. They stated that freedom of expression and press are crucial for promoting peace between nations, disarmament, and a more just world order in today's society. | 2 |
The October issue of GQ features Paul McCartney, who has relied on familiar Beatles stories for years. However, in his GQ interview, he appeared more casual and less concerned about his image than expected. He even shared a story about the Beatles' teenage escapades, which made headlines. This was a refreshing change for both readers and fans, as it showed a different side of McCartney. It required him to be open and willing to answer questions. Not all major stories require this level of transparency, like the September issue of Vogue with Beyoncé on the cover. The article accompanying this piece is titled "Beyoncé in Her Own Words," and consists of short commentaries on various topics like motherhood, body acceptance, and touring. Anna Wintour describes it as a "powerful essay" written by Beyoncé herself, with minimal outside perspective. This may not bother fans of Beyoncé, but for those who value in-depth celebrity journalism, the lack of external viewpoints could be seen as a problem. Many well-known pop music artists, such as Taylor Swift, Drake, and Frank Ocean, have been avoiding the press for some time now, opting instead to communicate with their fans through social media or by remaining silent altogether. This trend is not limited to just a few artists, but rather seems to be a common occurrence in the industry. A monologue, rather than a dialogue, is seen as a potential threat to the traditional role of celebrity interviews. Since the 1960s, in-depth interviews have been essential for creating stars and maintaining their public image. Artists continued to engage with the media even after reaching the height of fame, as answering questions was considered part of their job. These interviews provided a platform for celebrities to explain themselves and share their thoughts on important cultural moments, such as John Lennon discussing the Beatles' breakup, Tupac Shakur speaking from jail, or Courtney Love reflecting on Kurt Cobain's death. It used to be enlightening for fans and a source of pride for celebrities, especially when interviews were confrontational. Stars like Ice Cube and Madonna excelled in those situations, showing their thoughtful nature and willingness to face challenges while managing their public image. However, this was during a time when print media held significant power, before the internet and TMZ took over the narrative. As celebrities' every move became constantly documented, they became more hesitant to engage with the media. This shift alone wouldn't necessarily mean the end of traditional celebrity journalism. The pressure on celebrity journalism from higher-ups may not be as intense as the threat emerging from the younger generation of celebrities who share their lives on social media without the need for traditional interviews. This new generation, which includes YouTube stars and SoundCloud rappers, values immediate and unfiltered communication, rendering the traditional promise of celebrity journalism obsolete. An example of this shift is rapper Lil Xan, who frequently shares personal dramas online without waiting for traditional media to catch up. In today's world, social media posts have replaced traditional tell-all interviews for celebrities. Famous individuals like Ariana Grande, XXXTentacion, and Logan Paul have used platforms like Instagram and YouTube to share their personal stories and apologies, without facing much scrutiny. This has created a safe space for young celebrities to connect with their audience directly, surpassing the reach of traditional media outlets. As a result, celebrity journalism faces a challenging dilemma, as the most famous individuals no longer need it, and the up-and-coming stars have grown up in a time where it is less significant. As time passes, the middle ground may eventually disappear. Additionally, there is now a wide range of content being created, making it challenging for consumers to distinguish between original reporting and aggregated content, as well as content from journalistic outlets and brands. This lack of clarity encourages celebrities to move away from traditional media where they have less control over the final product. With the decline of traditional media, the new media ecosystem is often used to provide a corrective or serve as a noisy distraction. For example, Selena Gomez is featured on the cover of Elle this month, with a relatively harmless accompanying story. However, when it was published online, she responded with a lengthy Instagram post expressing her frustration. She explained how difficult it is for her to speak candidly for over an hour only to have someone else interpret her words for profit. She emphasized her desire for her voice to remain authentic as she grows older. She then outlined the topics she had hoped to discuss in the interview and criticized the focus on her personal life and church. With the balance of power shifting in favor of celebrities, publications, struggling financially, are resorting to unconventional methods to maintain access to famous individuals. This includes allowing celebrities to "edit" special issues of magazines. Swift was featured on the cover of Harper's Bazaar this year, but in the article, she takes on the role of interviewer, asking questions to rock muse Pattie Boyd. Likewise, in 2015, Rihanna took her own photograph for the cover of The Fader, with the help of a professional photographer. This act was seen as a commentary on the all-seeing nature of fame, as well as the cover star taking control of their own image. If these options are not feasible, magazines can opt to have a friend of the celebrity conduct the interview instead. In Elle magazine, Jennifer Lawrence spoke with Emma Stone. Gigi Hadid was interviewed for the Harper's Bazaar May cover by Blake Lively. Cleo Wade, an Instagram affirmation specialist, conducted Katy Perry's interview for the March issue of Glamour. Interview magazine, known for featuring conversations between celebrities, has recently been revived. In the comeback issue, Raf Simons converses with George Condo (with input from a journalist) and Jennifer Jason Leigh chats with Phoebe Cates. It's worth noting that the friend being interviewed doesn't necessarily have to be famous. The current feature in Rolling Stone with the reclusive pop star Sia and the recent exclusive interview with Soon-Yi Previn in New York magazine, conducted by friends of the subjects, have raised concerns about the role of objectivity in journalism. These stories rely on personal relationships to gain access and insight, rather than maintaining journalistic integrity. The traditional role of a journalist as a proxy for the reader is often abandoned in favor of exclusive access, leading to ethical dilemmas. Friendship should not be a requirement for interviews, as it can prevent meaningful conversations. Fans miss out on the depth of discussions that could occur if interviewers were willing to challenge their subjects. It would have been fascinating to see probing conversations with Beyoncé about “Lemonade” or Swift about “Reputation”, allowing for a more nuanced portrayal of the interviewees. Unfortunately, many celebrities have become closed off, leading to missed opportunities for both the audience and the subjects. It is unfortunate that we will never learn the answers to the unasked questions. Text = Copyright 2018 New York Times News Service. | 2 |
The decrease in pollution due to coronavirus lockdowns has led to significant improvements in air and water quality, prompting calls for a low-carbon future. However, the need to restart economies and get people back to work is complicating the environmental situation. Wildlife has been seen returning to city streets, with wolves, deer, and kangaroos spotted in areas normally bustling with traffic. Fish have been sighted in Venice canals previously polluted by motor boats, and residents in some Indian cities have reported seeing the Himalayas for the first time in years. Satellite imagery has shown marked improvements in air quality in Europe and Asia, including China where the pandemic originated. Despite these improvements, residents in some of China's most polluted cities are concerned that the clear skies may not last once the economy restarts. Tang Zhiwei, a 27-year-old resident of Shanghai, mentioned that as the epidemic eases in the second half of the year, the weather may worsen gradually once factories reopen. He advised people to enjoy the blue sky while they can. Thunberg emphasized that addressing the coronavirus does not mean the climate crisis has disappeared, stating that both crises need to be tackled simultaneously. UN chief Antonio Guterres urged governments to use their economic responses to the pandemic to address the even more serious emergency of climate change in his Earth Day message. Guterres warned governments against rescuing heavily polluting industries amid a global divide between supporters of green stimulus measures and industry lobbyists seeking to relax climate regulations. Despite the focus on the COVID-19 pandemic on Earth Day, Guterres emphasized the urgent environmental crisis facing the planet. Peter Betts, a former climate negotiator, highlighted the need for economic stimulus packages to prioritize low-carbon and climate-friendly solutions. There is concern that some governments may prioritize economic recovery over environmental considerations in their efforts to revive their economies and create jobs. US President Donald Trump views getting America, especially its oil and gas industry, back to work as a top priority. He expressed his commitment to supporting the industry in a tweet, emphasizing the importance of securing jobs and companies for the future. The environmental challenges are becoming more urgent, with last year being the hottest on record in Europe due to high levels of heat-trapping greenhouse gases. C3S director Carlo Buontempo stated that the warming trend is now undeniable globally, leading to an increase in record-breaking events. The head of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) predicted a 6% decrease in carbon dioxide emissions this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, which would be the largest drop since World War Two. However, the WMO emphasized that this reduction will not halt climate change, stating that COVID-19 is only a temporary solution and sustained climate action is necessary. Due to the large number of people staying at home, there has been an improvement in air quality in China. Emissions in Shanghai decreased by almost 20% in the first quarter, and in Wuhan, the city where the pandemic began, monthly averages dropped by over a third. However, experts are concerned that this decline may lead China to ignore pollution in order to boost the economy, which saw its first decline ever in the first quarter. | 2 |
The Norwegian politician who proposed it announced that anti-secrecy website WikiLeaks has been nominated for the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize, following the nomination deadline. Nominations are accepted until February 1 by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, with panel members having until the end of the month to suggest their own candidates. According to Norwegian parliamentarian Snorre Valen, WikiLeaks is a significant advocate for freedom of speech and transparency, making it a strong candidate for the prestigious award due to its exposure of corruption, human rights violations, and war crimes. Nominations can be made by members of national parliaments, law or political science professors, and previous winners. The committee did not provide any comments regarding the WikiLeaks proposal or other nominations. Washington is angered by WikiLeaks and its founder Julian Assange for releasing numerous secret documents and diplomatic cables that have allegedly damaged US interests abroad, including peace efforts. Assange, an Australian, is facing extradition from Britain to Sweden for questioning in a sex case, which he and his supporters claim is a smear campaign aimed at shutting down WikiLeaks, a non-profit organization funded by the public and rights groups. Awarding WikiLeaks the Nobel Prize could lead to criticism of the Nobel Committee, which has faced controversy with its recent choices of jailed Chinese pro-democracy activist Liu Xiaobo and President Barack Obama shortly after his election. The definition of the Nobel Prize, established by Alfred Nobel, the Swedish inventor of dynamite, was intended to be awarded to individuals who have worked towards promoting peace and unity between nations, reducing standing armies, and organizing peace congresses. In recent years, the committee appointed by the Norwegian parliament has expanded Nobel's definition to include areas such as human rights, climate activism, and micro-financing, much to the dismay of traditionalists. Observers of the Nobel Prize believe that awarding a prize to WikiLeaks would emphasize the increasing influence of specialized Internet platforms and social media in instigating global change. Platforms like Twitter and YouTube have played vital roles in mobilizing populations in countries where government-controlled media restricts information, like Egypt. Kristian Berg Harpviken from the PRIO peace think tank in Oslo suggests that the innovative use of "new tools for bringing about peace" could be a key theme for this year's Nobel Prize, and he predicts that a woman will be the recipient following a streak of male winners. He believes that the Russian human rights group Memorial and its leader, Svetlana Gannushkina, are strong contenders for the prize. | 2 |
Senior EU officials are set to visit Turkmenistan this week in order to enhance collaboration with Central Asia, a region abundant in energy resources that is crucial for Europe's goal of diversifying energy supplies and reducing reliance on Russia. EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner, along with the French and Slovenian foreign ministers, will hold discussions with Central Asian leaders in Ashgabat on April 9-10, covering topics such as energy and democracy. Despite being rich in oil and gas, the region is known for its authoritarian governments and has faced criticism from the West for issues related to democracy and human rights. The EU views Central Asia as a potential new energy source as it seeks to lessen its dependence on Russia, which currently provides a quarter of the EU's energy requirements. The EU has stated that it is actively working with regional partners on joint priorities papers to outline future actions as part of its strategy, with talks expected to be conducted in private. Some activists and politicians have accused the West of prioritizing energy over democracy in their dealings with Central Asia, a claim that Western governments have refuted. Human Rights Watch, based in the U.S., has urged the EU to prioritize the promotion of human rights standards in Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan in their regional policy. Central Asia is home to some of the most repressive former Soviet Union states, and the EU should take this opportunity to push for improvements. Creating specific benchmarks will give the strategy a clear direction. Kazakhstan, the largest economy in the region with a stable investment environment, is the main target of Western interest. Turkmenistan has received significant investment but has never had an election deemed free and fair by Western monitors. The country, which is slowly opening up after years of isolation, has expressed interest in closer ties with the West and reform. However, some analysts doubt the new president's dedication to real change. Uzbekistan, previously criticized by the US for human rights violations, received praise this year for releasing activists from jail and showing a greater willingness to address human rights concerns. Human Rights Watch acknowledged these positive developments in the region. "However, these issues should not overshadow the larger problem of widespread human rights violations in each Central Asian country and throughout the region." | 2 |
In a statement, former Amazon employees Emily Cunningham and Maren Costa announced that Amazon has agreed to pay their back wages and must also post a notice to all tech and warehouse workers nationwide stating that workers cannot be fired for organizing and exercising their rights. The settlement is being hailed as a victory for workers' rights. The two employees claim they were fired for publicly advocating for climate change action and better treatment of warehouse workers. Amazon argues that they violated internal policies. Amazon spokesperson Jose Negrete confirmed the settlement, stating that it resolves the legal issues in the case. This settlement comes at a crucial time for Amazon, as the company is aiming to hire thousands of new employees while also trying to improve its reputation as an employer. Cunningham and Costa were part of a group that urged Amazon to address its climate impact, leading to the formation of Amazon Employees for Climate Justice. Over time, Cunningham and Costa expanded their demonstrations. Amazon informed them that they had breached its rule on external communications by discussing the company in public, prompting their group to rally 400 employees to do the same in defiance. At the beginning of the pandemic, they arranged an internal gathering for warehouse staff to discuss workplace safety with tech employees. Subsequently, both women were terminated by Amazon. Senator Elizabeth Warren raised concerns about potential reprisal in a letter to Amazon, and Tim Bray, a former vice president at Amazon's cloud computing division and internet pioneer, resigned in objection. This spring, attorneys from the National Labor Relations Board upheld the claims made by Costa and Cunningham that they were terminated in response to their efforts to organize. The NLRB's Seattle office then filed a lawsuit against Amazon, alleging that the company unfairly enforced its communication and solicitation policies to prevent employees from participating in protected, concerted activities. The hearing was initially set to begin on Tuesday morning but was postponed as the parties negotiated a settlement. This case is just one of several disputes Amazon has had with the labor board during the pandemic. In a notable example from August, an NLRB hearing officer recommended that a union election at an Amazon warehouse in Bessemer, Alabama be invalidated due to Amazon's actions hindering a fair election process. Amazon denies any wrongdoing and has stated that they will appeal if the labor board's regional office agrees with the recommendation to overturn the election result that rejected the union. | 2 |
The International Monetary Fund's largest-ever distribution of monetary reserves will provide extra liquidity for the global economy, supplementing member countries' foreign exchange reserves and reducing their dependence on more expensive domestic or external debt, according to Georgieva. She stated that the allocation is a significant boost for the world and, if used wisely, a unique opportunity to address the current crisis. Countries can utilize the SDR allocation to support their economies and enhance their efforts against the coronavirus crisis, but should not use the fiscal space to postpone necessary economic reforms or debt restructuring, the IMF stated in a separate guidance document. IMF member countries will receive SDRs in proportion to their current quota shareholdings in the fund, which is the fund's unit of exchange backed by dollars, euros, yen, sterling, and yuan. Georgieva mentioned that around $275 billion of the allocation will benefit emerging market and developing countries, with approximately $21 billion to be allocated to low-income countries. Georgieva stated that the IMF is urging wealthy countries who receive SDRs to direct them towards poorer countries in greater need. One option is for affluent nations to allocate SDRs to the IMF's Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust for low-income countries. Additionally, the IMF is exploring the creation of a Resilience and Sustainability Trust that could utilize SDRs to assist the most vulnerable countries in structural transformation, including addressing climate change. Another idea is to use SDRs to support lending by multilateral development banks. The IMF's most recent SDR distribution occurred in 2009 during the global financial crisis, providing member countries with $250 billion in SDR reserves. In order to use their SDRs, nations would need to trade them for actual hard currencies, which would involve finding another country willing to make the exchange. | 2 |
A politician from Malaysia's ruling party has proposed that an electoral reform activist be executed. Outside the residence of an opposition state leader, mock funeral ceremonies were conducted. At a political rally, eggs and rocks were thrown. Malaysia has a history of political controversies and scandals, but the recent increase in aggressive language and violence, particularly towards the opposition, has surprised even experienced observers as the country approaches its most heated and closely contested election in April. Lim Guan Eng, the Chinese chief minister of Penang state and a prominent figure in Malaysia's opposition, expressed concern about the upcoming election being the dirtiest and most violent. He also highlighted the symbolic threat made by members of Perkasa, a group advocating for Malay rights with ties to the ruling party, who placed a flower garland around a photo of him as a funeral ritual. The political tension is increasing as Malaysia's ruling coalition, in power since independence in 1957, is expected to struggle to improve upon its poor electoral performance in 2008, when it lost its two-thirds parliamentary majority, five state governments to the opposition, and saw the ouster of then prime minister Abdullah Badawi. According to a source within the dominant United Malays National Organization (UMNO), recent internal polling has revealed that the coalition is facing challenges in regaining its two-thirds majority and even risks losing its simple majority. The polls indicated that the coalition may lose more states and is facing a tough race in southern Johor state, a traditional stronghold for UMNO, due to decreasing support from ethnic Chinese. This potential outcome has led to a delay in the elections, as stated by the senior UMNO source. Independent polls conducted by the Merdeka Centre show that while Prime Minister Najib Razak has a strong approval rating of around 65 percent, the coalition's popularity is much lower at approximately 48 percent. Najib has delayed the election, which is required to be held by next April, indicating his uncertain confidence in surpassing the performance from 2008. Ooi Kee Beng, deputy director of the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore, stated that UMNO is aware that their power is not guaranteed and that there is a possibility of change happening for the first time since 1969. This year marked by race riots after significant election gains by ethnic Chinese, leading to the implementation of economic privileges for majority ethnic Malays over Chinese and Indian minorities in the country. A police report was filed against UMNO lawmaker Mohamad Aziz by the opposition after he questioned in parliament whether leading electoral reform campaigner Ambiga Sreenevasan should be hanged for treason. Although the lawmaker later retracted his statement, he was not disciplined by the party leadership. Sreenevasan, who has received an International Woman of Courage award, has reported receiving death threats and has taken measures to ensure her safety, such as hiring a bodyguard and installing security cameras around her home in Kuala Lumpur. She has also faced calls for her Malaysian citizenship to be revoked and has been labeled the "anti-Christ" by the right-wing Perkasa group. Sreenevasan expressed her disappointment with the constant hate speech, mentioning that the leadership could have intervened but chose not to. Following a protest she led in Kuala Lumpur for electoral reforms, former soldiers and market traders protested outside her house, claiming a loss of earnings. Some even resorted to daily "exercises" involving pointing their buttocks towards her house. People who are close to Najib characterize him as a gentleman who does not engage in dirty politics. However, the opposition argues that his reluctance to strongly condemn acts of violence and intimidation has emboldened extremists. Following the controversial "hanging" comment in parliament, he advised coalition MPs to refrain from making statements that could offend other races or component parties within the coalition. Malaysia's Home Minister, Hishamuddin Hussein, acknowledged the existence of political intimidation in the country, stating that the current political climate is highly charged. Lim, a member of the opposition who was detained for 18 months in 1986 and spent another year in prison for sedition, expressed that the policy has moved beyond mere approval. He accused Barisan Nasional of actively supporting and condoning the acts. Lim has also reported experiencing physical intimidation in recent months. Anwar Ibrahim, the opposition leader who was imprisoned for six years on what he claims were false charges of sodomy and corruption, held UMNO responsible for an incident in February where his car was attacked by a group of youths in Johor state. Anwar's daughter, opposition MP Nurul Izzah Anwar, stated that a rally in her area in May was disrupted by men throwing rocks, water bottles, and eggs, resulting in injuries. This incident was part of a pattern of opposition rallies being disrupted, sometimes violently, in recent months. Opposition leaders are uncertain about the identity of the attackers, but they criticize the police for not apprehending the culprits or promptly addressing the violent incidents. | 2 |
Chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed urged people to conserve energy and avoid wasting gas and electricity in order to reduce the gap between supply and demand. Speaking at a workshop and exhibition on "Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy Programmes" at Dhaka Sheraton Hotel, Fakhruddin emphasized the importance of using energy-efficient lighting, implementing energy-saving technology in industries, and utilizing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. He noted that the promotion of energy conservation and renewable energy technology has become a worldwide trend due to rising petroleum prices. Fakhruddin also highlighted the growing awareness of climate change and the depletion of natural resources globally, stating that Bangladesh is no exception to this trend. The CA mentioned that the government was in the process of creating a draft for the Energy Conservation Act, which would include regulations in the building code to promote the efficient use and preservation of energy in buildings. The provisions would cover various aspects such as shading buildings from sunlight, using energy-efficient air-conditioners and coolers, insulation materials, lights, and appliances. The government had also been offering financial and technical support for the advancement of solar home systems through implementing agencies, and had decreased import duty on solar panels from 5 percent to 3 percent. The government's current focus was on exploring other uses of solar energy, like water heating, irrigation pumping, and street lighting. The CA announced that the government was eager to support private investments in the economy and was actively promoting public-private partnerships in the energy sector. Additionally, they were considering implementing policies to allow private sector installation of merchant power plants, which would enable small power plants, captive power plants, and merchant power plants to sell power to their chosen customers. The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission would be responsible for overseeing this initiative. Fakhruddin expressed optimism that the workshop would generate creative ideas for promoting energy conservation and the use of renewable energy in the nation. | 2 |
The world's oldest and longest-serving monarch spent the night in the hospital on Wednesday but returned to Windsor Castle the next day, with officials reporting that she was in good spirits and back to work. The queen had canceled a trip to Northern Ireland on Wednesday and was advised by medical staff to rest, although her illness was not related to COVID-19. The palace stated that she underwent preliminary investigations at the hospital on Wednesday before returning to Windsor Castle on Thursday. The reason for her medical attention was not disclosed, leading some royal correspondents to question if the official account was complete. Prime Minister Boris Johnson sent his well wishes and confirmed that the queen was back at her desk. Johnson informed reporters that Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, is currently back at her desk at Windsor Castle. A source close to the royal family explained that the queen had stayed at the King Edward VII hospital in London for practical reasons and that her medical team had taken a cautious approach. The source mentioned that she is now resting and performing light official duties. Queen Elizabeth, who also rules over 15 other realms, returned to work on Thursday afternoon and is carrying out some light duties. Despite significant political, social, and cultural changes that have occurred during her reign, Queen Elizabeth has remained a symbol of stability for the British people, helping to maintain the popularity of the monarchy. Despite her age, she continues to show a strong commitment to her responsibilities, earning respect from both supporters and opponents of the monarchy. Queen Elizabeth recently hosted a drinks reception for billionaire business leaders, including Bill Gates, following a green investment conference led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Alongside her son Prince Charles and grandson Prince William, she greeted guests like US climate envoy John Kerry without wearing masks. The Queen, who has been on the throne for nearly 70 years, is known for her good health. The most recent time she is believed to have stayed overnight in a hospital was in 2013 due to symptoms of gastroenteritis. She underwent successful surgery for an eye cataract in 2018 and a knee operation in 2003. Royal officials are reluctant to talk about her health issues. Her husband, Prince Philip, passed away in April at the age of 99, but she has continued to fulfill her official duties, although her age has led to her delegating more responsibilities to Charles and other members of the royal family. Recently, she was seen using a walking stick in public for the first time, aside from after her knee surgery. She not only mourns the loss of her husband, whom she called her source of support, but also faces challenges as her son Prince Andrew has stepped back from royal responsibilities due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein, a sex offender who died in jail in 2019. Additionally, her grandson Prince Harry and his wife Meghan have distanced themselves from the royal family by moving to Los Angeles and criticizing Buckingham Palace. Queen Elizabeth's upcoming important event is welcoming world leaders at the beginning of COP26 in Glasgow at the end of the month. | 2 |
The United Nations stated that investing in energy efficiency for power plants, buildings, and cars is the most effective way to combat global warming. They also reported that reducing emissions in developing nations is more cost-effective than in wealthy countries. The UN report presented at a meeting in Vienna highlighted that curbing greenhouse gas emissions could be achieved with a relatively small amount of investment, amounting to 0.3 to 0.5 percent of projected GDP by 2030. Yvo de Boer, head of the U.N. Climate Change Secretariat, emphasized that energy efficiency is the most promising solution for reducing greenhouse gases in the near future. Last week, a 216-page report was released online. The study has the potential to provide guidance to governments gathering in Austria to discuss long-term strategies for combating global warming beyond the UN's Kyoto Protocol, which requires 35 wealthy nations to limit greenhouse gas emissions by 2008-12. The report suggests that around $200 billion-$210 billion in global investment and financial flows will be needed by 2030 in order to stabilize greenhouse gas emissions at current levels. This will involve implementing measures in areas such as energy supply, forestry, and transport, as well as improving energy efficiency in power plants, increasing fuel efficiency in cars, and enhancing insulation in buildings. The study predicts a transition towards renewable energies like solar and hydropower, as well as some nuclear power. It also projects that investments in helping countries adapt to the effects of climate change would amount to tens of billions of dollars in 2030, including healthcare for diseases like malaria and building barriers to protect coastlines from rising sea levels. The report suggests that carbon markets must be expanded significantly to meet the demand for increased investments and financial support. Currently, companies are responsible for approximately 60 percent of global investments. Experts believe this report is the first of its kind to provide an overview of the necessary investments for a single year, specifically 2030. The report provides additional information to complement previous reports, such as one by former World Bank chief economist Nicholas Stern, which stated that it would be more cost-effective to address climate change now rather than wait for the consequences. This year's U.N. reports have also predicted that global warming will lead to more heat waves, droughts, disease, disruptions in farming, and higher sea levels. De Boer emphasized the need for increased investments in developing nations, stating that a majority of cost-effective opportunities are in these countries. He also noted that while rich nations should not solely focus on foreign investments, more than half of the energy investment required is in developing countries. China is constructing two new coal-fired power plants every week to support its expanding economy. It has been suggested that investing in cleaner technologies, such as filtering and burying carbon emissions, could help mitigate the environmental impact. | 2 |
After years of unfulfilled promises, a long-awaited paved road between Kenya and Ethiopia is finally becoming a reality, thanks to the efforts of Chinese road engineers. This road will replace a challenging rock track that currently connects Kenya's farms and port to Ethiopia. The section from Isiolo to Moyale is one of the remaining unpaved parts of the Great North Road, originally envisioned by the British to link Cape Town to Cairo. While previous attempts by Britain and Kenyan governments fell short, China is now taking the lead in constructing a vital trade route that will open up the previously isolated northern region of Kenya. This collaboration between China and Kenya reflects a common trend in Africa, where China's economic interests align with the development goals of African nations. The construction of the road in a beautiful but previously impoverished area is expected to bring economic benefits, such as increased tourism and trade. The project manager for China Wu Yi (Kenya) Co. stated that once completed, the road will improve trade and tourism in the region. The road is being built with funding from the African Development Bank and the Kenyan government. It is estimated that paving the road between Isiolo and Moyale could increase trade between Kenya and Ethiopia fivefold. Trade between China and Kenya has also seen significant growth in recent years. The Cape-to-Cairo road ends at the edge of Isiolo, where residents feel like they are at the border of two Kenyas. Many in the north feel disconnected from the rest of the country, with hopes that the improved road will bring in more tourists and revenue for the local community. However, there are skeptics who question China's intentions, reflecting the mixed feelings many Africans have towards the country's investment efforts. Some people in African countries such as Zambia believe that China is essentially colonizing Africa for its resources and flooding the market with cheap products. China, on the other hand, refutes these claims and points to its longstanding trade and cooperation relationship with Kenya spanning 50 years. In the case of Kenya, China is currently focused on reconstructing the initial section of the Isiolo-Moyale road to facilitate the transportation of heavy machinery to Merti, located around 80 km (50 miles) east of the 136 km (84.5 miles) of road it has committed to building. Furthermore, China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) and Sweden's Lundin Petroleum AB are conducting seismic tests in Merti in preparation for oil drilling next year. In Isiolo, residents have shown distrust towards oil exploration following a failed venture in the 1980s. Suspicions have been further fueled by recent incidents, such as the shooting of a Chinese engineer by bandits near the Merille River on April 21. Tribal elders believe the engineer was targeted due to a perceived lack of employment opportunities for locals in the project. According to Wu, the majority of the project's workforce were Kenyans, with all day laborers being from the area. After the shooting incident, the Kenyan government deployed its elite paramilitary General Service Unit to the Merille River area to disarm young people and establish a security presence. It is widely believed that the construction of the road will greatly benefit northern Kenya and could potentially bring an end to years of neglect. During the colonial era, Isiolo served as an outpost on the outskirts of the closed Northern Frontier District, which covered a large portion of Kenya from Uganda and Sudan in the west to Ethiopia and Somalia in the east. George Cardovillis, a Kenyan with Greek ancestry, explained that during those times, Europeans were not permitted to reside in the area due to its dangerous conditions and harsh climate. The government instructed them to continue traveling over 600 km south to Maralal. From Isiolo to Ethiopia, the landscape remains barren with black volcanic stones and red sands, similar to when Cardovillis' ancestors journeyed south by donkey train. The sun still shines intensely, casting heat waves on the land, while mountains appear in the distance under a hazy sky. Water is difficult to find in this harsh environment. Electricity, telephone lines, and many other services are nearly nonexistent in this area. Despite its remote and undeveloped nature, Kenya's national parks here are some of the most pristine and untouched. Just 50 km past Isiolo, there are three game reserves that are comparable to the famous Maasai Mara in terms of the abundance and diversity of animals. This is where Joy Adamson, the author of "Born Free," settled to raise leopards before her tragic death. Jayne Nguatah, the manager of Sarova Shaba lodge in Shaba park, believes that their occupancy rates will double once the road construction is completed. The Sarova Shaba, located on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro river, will serve as a Christmas gift for us. The main lodge, built like a treehouse and overlooking a natural spring, is frequented by baboons and monkeys. However, challenges such as banditry and tribal clashes, fueled by weapons from neighboring conflicts in Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, and Uganda, hinder the development of a sustainable tourism industry in northern Kenya. Security forces are spread out thinly as nomadic herders continue to search for pasture and water for their livestock. While some herders still follow traditional practices, others now carry modern weapons such as AK-47 assault rifles or Sterling-Enfield rifles from colonial times. Despite the presence of Chinese engineers working near Isiolo, doubts remain about whether the road will reach Moyale to the north. Plans to extend the tarmac beyond the current Chinese construction are still in the planning stages. Trader Gumucha Gisiko expressed his skepticism about the promised road after waiting for 45 years, stating that he will only believe it when he sees it. | 2 |
Preliminary results indicated that the Christian Social Union (CSU) received 37.3 percent of the vote, losing its absolute majority for only the second time since 1962. This outcome is expected to cause internal conflicts within the conservative party, which is already a challenging partner for Merkel in Berlin. Bavarian premier Markus Soeder acknowledged the disappointing result at a party gathering, stating that it was not an easy day for the CSU. Despite this setback, he expressed the party's desire to establish a stable government as soon as possible. The CSU will now need to form a coalition, a new experience for a party accustomed to ruling alone, as the pro-immigration Greens came in second and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) entered the state assembly for the first time. The Greens significantly increased their vote share to 17.8 percent, gaining support from more liberal CSU voters and traditional SPD supporters. The political impact of this shift was felt in Bavaria, with potential repercussions in Berlin. Fred Kempe of the Atlantic Council think-tank suggested that the Merkel era may be coming to an end. SPD leader Andrea Nahles blamed the federal government's poor performance in Berlin, where the SPD is in a coalition with conservatives, for her party's weak showing in Bavaria. This situation has become a challenge for Merkel. Horst Seehofer, leader of the CSU, has been a constant source of frustration for Merkel since her controversial decision in 2015 to open Germany's borders to over 1 million migrants. He has gradually moved his party to the right in an attempt to combat the rise of the AfD, but this effort has ultimately been unsuccessful. According to political scientist Michael Weigl, Seehofer's personal attacks on Merkel and his harsh rhetoric towards asylum seekers have contributed to the CSU's poor performance. Weigl believes that this strategy has led to a polarized political climate, benefiting the Greens and the AfD, who have clear stances on immigration. When asked if he would step down as CSU leader, Seehofer stated to broadcaster ZDF that he was considering it but needed to analyze the various reasons for the party's poor performance. The preliminary results showed that the AfD garnered 10.7 percent of the vote, while the Free Voters, a protest party likely to be the CSU's coalition partner, secured 11.6 percent. The CSU has ruled out forming an alliance with the AfD. Tensions between Merkel's Christian Democratic Union and the CSU have increased since they were forced into a coalition with the Social Democrats after an inconclusive national election in March. The Bavarian election will be followed by another test for Merkel's conservative alliance, the Union, in two weeks. The CDU is expected to remain the largest party but lose votes in an election in Hesse, which is home to Frankfurt, the financial center. Merkel will seek re-election as party chairwoman at the CDU annual congress in December, a move supported by senior conservatives despite recent ousting of her ally, Volker Kauder, as leader. Before the Bavarian vote, Merkel called for an end to infighting among her CDU and CSU allies. Her fourth government has faced near collapses twice due to disputes over immigration and a scandal involving a former spymaster. Jan Techau from The German Marshall Fund of the United States think-tank described Merkel as "exhausted and weakened." He stated that despite initial doubts, her plan to maintain a neutral stance within the Union seems more reasonable now, given the outcome for the CSU. The success of this strategy moving forward will rely on the results in Hesse. | 2 |
The hurricane affecting financial markets has not significantly impacted trade flows yet. The lack of regulation, which many blame for the current financial crisis, is prompting calls to strengthen commercial rules by reaching a new trade agreement. China's deputy WTO ambassador, Xiang Zhang, believes that concluding negotiations for a new trade deal would send a positive message to the global economy and business community. Conversely, Zhang warns that failing to reach a deal after seven years could result in a crisis of confidence in business. WTO Director-General Pascal Lamy is still hopeful for an outline deal on agriculture and industrial goods by the end of the year in the Doha round, despite the lack of progress in July. Both Lamy and EU trade chief Peter Mandelson expressed concerns last week about the potential for the financial crisis to lead to protectionism, which could harm economic growth. They emphasized the urgency of reaching a new trade deal to secure the benefits of globalization. The crisis could also divert the attention of world leaders away from trade issues, making it difficult to reach an agreement. However, the proposed $700 billion bailout for the U.S. financial industry, expected to be announced on Sunday, could help alleviate these concerns. It is important to note that any trade deal would not be finalized until at least 2009 or 2010, and even then would not have an immediate impact on trade flows due to implementation periods of up to 17 years for developing nations. This delayed economic effect would also minimize any immediate financial market impact, as changes in exchange rates or company earnings would only be seen later on. Experts believe that a deal would increase business confidence by demonstrating a reduction in barriers to business, a strong world trading system, and global cooperation. Fredrik Erixon, from Brussels trade policy think-tank ECIPE, pointed out that existing WTO agreements limit countries' ability to raise tariffs. He expressed confidence that history would not repeat itself with a return to economic nationalism amidst a financial crisis. However, the current climate of skepticism towards deregulation and criticism of Anglo-Saxon laissez-faire liberalization by French President Nicolas Sarkozy and German Finance Minister Peer Steinbrueck may hinder progress in liberalizing trade in financial services during the negotiations. During a meeting in July, governments indicated their willingness to open up markets to various services, despite the impact of the credit crunch not deterring negotiators from addressing banking issues. John Cooke, the chairman of the Liberalisation of Trade in Services Committee, highlighted the distinction between market access and financial contagion, noting that trade negotiations focus on the former while regulators handle the latter. He emphasized that as the world continues to globalize, there will be increased trade and investment, leading to greater international interdependencies among economies. Trade rounds aim not only to liberalize commerce but also to establish equitable rules for the international trading system. In the current Doha round, developing countries are pushing for the reduction of agricultural subsidies in rich nations, which artificially lower prices and harm farmers in poorer countries. Munir Ahmed, secretary-general of the International Textiles and Clothing Bureau, likened these subsidies to short-selling in the stock market. He emphasized the importance of reaching a Doha deal to regulate various aspects of international commerce, stating that the recent financial crisis highlights the need for action before opportunities are lost. With the recent growth in business, many companies have not felt the need to advocate for changes to trade rules to prevent protectionism from returning. This lack of lobbying has resulted in less pressure on governments to reach a deal, potentially leading to a reversal of tariff and subsidy cuts. New Zealand's WTO ambassador, Crawford Falconer, believes that shrinking entitlements is crucial to prevent regression in the financial world, emphasizing the importance of completing the task at hand as soon as possible. | 2 |
The government of Bangladesh and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed an agreement for a new project called "Community-based Adaptation to Climate Change through Coastal Afforestation in Bangladesh." This project aims to directly help vulnerable people in coastal communities by enhancing their resilience and the protective ecosystems through community-led adaptation interventions. According to UNDP country director Stefan Priesner, adaptation to climate change has become a major development challenge for Bangladesh, making this project crucial in demonstrating effective adaptation strategies for vulnerable coastal communities. The project's goal is to improve the capabilities of government authorities and sectoral planners at all levels to address climate risks in coastal areas and implement effective risk reduction strategies. The project will focus on five coastal districts - Barguna, Patuakhali, Bhola, Noakhali, and Chittagong - and aims to serve as a model for other least developed countries working on climate change adaptation projects. The outcomes of the project will be shared at the upcoming Climate Conference in Copenhagen in December. | 2 |
New genetic evidence presented by US researchers on Monday supports the theory that Christopher Columbus introduced syphilis to Europe from the New World. This finding has reignited a long-standing debate about the origins of the disease. Through a genetic analysis of the syphilis family tree, researchers discovered that the closest relative of syphilis was a South American cousin that causes yaws, an infection caused by a sub-species of the same bacteria. Evolutionary biologist Kristin Harper from Emory University in Atlanta explained that while some believe syphilis is an ancient disease that dates back to our earliest human ancestors, their research suggests that it was brought from the New World to the Old World relatively recently in human history. Harper's study is published in the journal Public Library of Science Neglected Tropical Diseases. She stated that the research supports the "Columbian theory," which connects the first European syphilis outbreak in 1495 to the return of Columbus and his crew. Combining the genetic data with the epidemic in Naples in 1495 provides strong evidence for this theory. Syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, begins as a sore and can progress to a rash, fever, and potentially lead to blindness, paralysis, and dementia. The origins of syphilis have been traced back to skeletal remains found in both the New World and the Old World, with chronic syphilis leaving distinct lesions on bones. Harper mentioned in a phone interview that it has a worm-eaten appearance. She utilized phylogenetics to examine the evolutionary relationships between 26 strains of Treponema, the bacteria family responsible for syphilis, bejel, and yaws. The study included two previously unsequenced strains of yaws from remote areas of Guyana. Harper sequenced 21 regions in search of DNA changes among the strains. They concluded that yaws is an ancient infection, while venereal syphilis is a more recent development. Harper believes a nonvenereal form of yaws evolved into venereal syphilis that could survive in the European climate, but the exact process is unclear. The origin of syphilis is believed to be from the New World, but its specific characteristics are unknown. In a commentary in the same journal, Connie Mulligan and colleagues from the University of Florida disagreed with Harper's analysis, stating that her conclusions were overly reliant on genetic changes from Guyana samples. Mulligan proposed that more accurate information could be obtained through DNA analysis of ancient bones or well-preserved tissues. Harper acknowledges that further research is necessary to fully understand how syphilis made its way to the New World. "This is like looking at a blurry picture," she remarked. | 2 |
Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi had a rare meeting with a government minister on Monday, indicating a potential improvement in relations between her and the country's new military-backed leadership. The meeting, which was only arranged on Sunday, lasted for over an hour and took place at a state guesthouse. This was the first known interaction between the 66-year-old Suu Kyi and a member of the new civilian government. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the meeting and discussed issues that could benefit the people of Myanmar. Suu Kyi, known for her opposition to military rule in Myanmar, had previously met with Aung Kyi on nine occasions while she was under house arrest and he was a minister liaising between her and the junta. Aung Kyi rejected claims that these meetings were unproductive and expressed his desire for further discussions with Suu Kyi. Aung Kyi informed reporters that previous meetings had yielded some advantages, and he anticipates improved outcomes from the current discussions. He, along with Suu Kyi, delivered a joint statement to the media, emphasizing that the talks centered on potential collaborations for the welfare of the people. This involved discussions on upholding the rule of law, addressing disunity, and tackling issues that will be advantageous to the public. In April, a new government assumed power, marking the end of 49 years of direct military control over the former British colony. Since being released from seven years of house arrest last November, Suu Kyi has consistently called for dialogue with the new rulers. Nyan Win, a spokesperson for the National League for Democracy (NLD), Suu Kyi's active yet officially disbanded party, noted that there have been signs of progress in the political climate, especially with the government extending an invitation to Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi has been cautious in her interactions with the government since her release, refraining from criticizing the November 7 election which was widely seen as fraudulent. The government and military have softened their stance towards Suu Kyi, allowing her freedom to travel and meet with various individuals. Analysts believe that the government is aware that any action against Suu Kyi would provoke international backlash and hinder the possibility of Western sanctions being lifted in the near future. Engaging in dialogue with Suu Kyi could be a strategic move by Myanmar's secluded leadership, many of whom are former military officers, to demonstrate their willingness to communicate with foreign governments. According to Christopher Roberts, a Southeast Asia expert at the Australian National University, the meeting is likely more than just a publicity stunt. He believes it is part of a broader effort by the government to make gradual improvements and establish a more legitimate image. Myanmar is working towards creating a sense of normalcy by allowing its leaders to meet with representatives from countries like the US, Australia, and the UN, as well as with Suu Kyi. Roberts mentioned that it will carry out these tasks, provided that they do not compromise security or stability. | 2 |
His complete tweet stated that the newly established Disinformation Board should evaluate his tweet, or perhaps they should establish a new Non Sequitur Board instead. He believes that discussing raising corporate taxes is acceptable, as is discussing taming inflation. However, combining the two topics is simply a tactic to divert attention. Bezos, who owns The Washington Post, continued to express his frustration, as reported by the DealBook newsletter. He praised Joe Manchin, the moderate senator from West Virginia who has frequently chosen not to align with other Democrats on economic matters, which led to the halting of additional stimulus plans. Bezos commended Manchin for preventing the Democratic party from making a mistake, involving Amazon in politics during a tumultuous time internally with employee unionization efforts. Many corporate leaders have been avoiding controversial discussions to avoid negative repercussions. Engaging in a public debate with the government over taxes on social media could draw unwanted attention to Amazon's tax practices, as the company reported nearly $36 billion in US pretax income in 2021 but claimed to owe only about $2 billion in federal taxes. That is a tax rate of 6 percent, which is significantly lower than the rates that corporations and workers are required to pay. When Biden announced his plans to increase rates and eliminate tax loopholes last year, he specifically called out Amazon, stating that it was unjust. Amazon did not provide a comment when contacted by DealBook. Disney recently lost its special tax status in Florida after disagreeing with a law that restricted discussions on gender identity in schools. Now, Republican lawmakers are working on legislation at both the state and federal levels that would target politically active businesses. Executives are now faced with finding a balance in the midst of these developments. There is a growing demand for corporations to take a stand on social issues, particularly as abortion rights have become a key topic in the upcoming midterm elections. Amazon's current CEO, Andy Jassy, is likely not eager to engage in this debate at the moment. Meanwhile, Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk have both criticized the Biden administration publicly, but privately work to gain government support for their space exploration ventures. Senator Bernie Sanders has criticized Bezos and Musk for treating NASA as a source of funding. He sent a tweet to Bezos on Saturday regarding Amazon's labor problems and increasing profits, stating that disinformation is Amazon spreading anti-union messages and compelling workers to attend unlawful captive audience meetings. He also mentioned that disinformation is Amazon attributing a 17 percent price hike to 'inflation' despite making a significant profit of $35 billion and avoiding $5 billion in taxes. | 2 |
Alibaba has made a commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, not only in its own direct and indirect emissions but also in reducing carbon intensity across its wider value chain. The company plans to decrease CO2 emissions by 1.5 gigatonnes by 2035 by implementing energy-saving technologies, utilizing renewables, and exploring carbon removal initiatives. Alibaba's CEO, Daniel Zhang, aims to encourage actions and behavioral changes among consumers, merchants, and partners globally to support these efforts. Last year, President Xi Jinping of China announced the country's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by approximately 2060. This has put pressure on China's large corporations to create their own plans to achieve "net zero". However, many of China's major tech companies still heavily rely on the country's coal-powered energy system, with only a few committing to transitioning to renewable energy sources. Greenpeace's report earlier this year ranked Tencent Holdings as the top Chinese cloud service provider in terms of acquiring renewable energy and reducing emissions, followed by Huawei Technologies, Baidu Inc, and Alibaba. | 2 |
At the age of 12, she used her mother's credit card to purchase a $29 Kylie Lip Kit in Candy K, which included a matte pink liquid lipstick and matching lip liner. The debut makeup product by Kylie Jenner sold out instantly in 2015, causing the website to crash and propelling the youngest Kardashian-Jenner sibling to beauty mogul status at just 18 years old. The demand for Lip Kits was so high that they even became a popular trend at events like New York City bar and bat mitzvahs, where emcees would throw the lip colors and liners into the crowd of dancing tweens in bandage dresses. Five years later, the global beauty market, which brought in almost $500 billion in sales last year according to Euromonitor, is overflowing with celebrities promoting products like lip gloss, face lotion, and even vibrators. New lines are constantly being released, such as Harry Styles' Pleasing nail polish and Machine Gun Kelly's UN/DN LAQR nail polish with unique shades and brushes for nail art. Ariana Grande and Chiara Ferragni have also launched their own makeup lines, each with their own unique themes. Famous celebrities like Billie Eilish, Addison Rae, Lori Harvey, Demi Lovato, and Hailey Bieber have all recently launched their own beauty or wellness products, from fragrances to skin care collections to vibrators. Hailey Bieber's upcoming Rhode Beauty line, named after her middle name, is set to be released next year. The abundance of celebrity-endorsed products in the market is beginning to feel like a parody. When the Alex Rodriguez concealer for men, a collaboration with Hims & Hers, was released in May and gained attention in celebrity news outlets like The Shade Room, many people initially thought it was a joke. Dua expressed skepticism towards celebrity beauty brands, a sentiment shared by many of her peers according to Hana Ben-Shabat, the founder of Gen Z Planet, a research firm. Ben-Shabat's research shows that only 19% of Gen Zers are influenced by celebrities when making purchasing decisions, while 66% cite their friends as the most influential. Stacey Berke, a 34-year-old addiction counsellor from Rochester, New York, noted that celebrities often promote their skincare products as a way to maintain their appearance without the use of Botox. The traditional celebrity endorsement is no longer sufficient as people now want to see expertise or genuine interest in the product being promoted. According to trend forecaster Lucie Greene, the transactional nature of celebrity endorsements is becoming more apparent, with consumers recognizing that celebrities often undergo cosmetic procedures to maintain their looks. The idea of a serum making someone look significantly younger or a celebrity's appearance being entirely natural is no longer convincing to the public. Richard Gersten, an investor and founder of True Beauty Ventures, cautioned that transitioning from making money by promoting other brands to creating one's own brand may not always be the best motivation. He mentioned that his firm has been approached by 10 celebrity or influencer brands recently. Rachel ten Brink, a general partner of Red Bike Capital and founder of Scentbird, noted that in the past, the only way to experience a celebrity's lifestyle was through their perfume, but now social media allows fans to access their food, fashion, opinions, and personal moments in real time. This has changed how the public interacts with celebrities. "You can connect with a celebrity on a more personal level by following them on Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok," ten Brink explained. After the popularity of celebrity fragrances in the early 2000s, Kylie Cosmetics introduced a new type of celebrity brand focused on selling makeup and skincare products online. Jenner revolutionized the marketing and selling of brands, which had traditionally been done at department stores or Sephora. With just an Instagram post, Jenner was able to sell millions of dollars worth of lipstick. Then, in 2017, Rihanna's Fenty Beauty changed the beauty industry by promoting inclusivity, diverse shade ranges, and conversations about race. In its first full year, the label brought in more than $500 million in revenue, as reported by LVMH, the French luxury group and co-owner of Fenty Beauty. Another example is Goop, which has established itself as a lifestyle brand over the last ten years. Gwyneth Paltrow, its founder, sells skin care, supplements, bath salts, and athleisure. Many have tried to emulate these successful business models, but some industry insiders, such as John Demsey, executive group president of the Estée Lauder Cos, which owns Estée Lauder, MAC Cosmetics, and Clinique, have reservations about famous founders. He has collaborated with numerous celebrities in his work, but he stated that there will not be a brand solely based on one celebrity. MAC, known for its collaborations with A-list stars like Mary J Blige, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, and Mariah Carey, recently launched a new Viva Glam lipstick without a celebrity for the first time in 27 years. According to Demsey, the decision to release the red, blue, and yellow lipsticks with Keith Haring designs was based on a return to the core essence of the product and brand. He emphasized that collaborations are temporary, while a brand is long-lasting. The majority of celebrity beauty brands are not successful in the industry. Everyone who was interviewed for this article, ranging from top executives at large corporations to high school students, was requested to identify one to three successful celebrity beauty brands other than Kylie Cosmetics, Fenty, and Goop. However, none were able to do so. Demsey noted that simply relying on influence is insufficient, and having millions of followers on Instagram or TikTok does not guarantee success. For example, in June, Vanessa Hudgens (with 43 million Instagram followers) and Madison Beer (with 29 million Instagram followers) launched Know Beauty, a skincare line that offers personalized regimens based on a DNA test from a cheek swab. Know Beauty made a big entrance when it first launched, but has not been very active since then. However, their products are still available for purchase on their website. The company declined to provide any comments on its current business status. Lady Gaga's Haus Laboratories, which was introduced with a lot of excitement two years ago, did not resonate with her devoted fan base. Recently, the brand brought in a new executive team to concentrate on improving their products, ingredients, and packaging. Their latest Casa Gaga collection features a new aesthetic departure from the original black packaging. Lipsticks, highlighters, blush, and other cosmetics are now available in white compacts and tubes with gold accents. Haus Laboratories declined to provide a comment on their business. Other well-known incidents include Tati Westbrook announcing the closure of Tati Beauty in November and Rflct, a skincare brand by gamer Rachell Hofstetter, shutting down after two weeks due to unproven claims about blue light. Few people are aware that a few companies are behind many of the celebrity beauty lines we see today. These companies, known as "incubators," specialize in quickly creating multiple brands simultaneously. They are produced in partnership with a celebrity or with the goal of collaborating with a celebrity later. For instance, Beach House Group developed Florence by Mills for Millie Bobby Brown, Moon oral care line for Kendall Jenner, and Pattern hair care for Tracee Ellis Ross. Forma Brands, the owner of Morphe, is responsible for Jaclyn Cosmetics and Grande's R E M Beauty. Maesa created Flower Beauty for Drew Barrymore, Kristin Ess Hair, TPH by Taraji hair care for Taraji P Henson, and Hey Humans for Jada Pinkett Smith, a personal care line. According to experts, most brands created by these factories are not meant to be long-lasting businesses, although Pattern, by Ross, seems to be successful and could outlast many of its competitors. Greg Portell, a partner at Kearney consulting firm, explained that incubators are designed to operate quickly and efficiently rather than focus on building a brand. Shaun Neff, founder of Beach House Group, mentioned that his team creates ideas for new companies and then collaborates with celebrities to bring them to life. For example, they partnered with supermodel Kendall Jenner to co-create the Kendall Jenner Teeth Whitening Pen and promote Moon oral care products. Neff highlighted Jenner's large fan base, good taste, and style as reasons for the collaboration. The shift in cultural values is also contributing to the decrease in popularity of celebrity brands. Older customers may be more attracted to celebrities, but it is more difficult to attract young millennials and Gen Zers who value authenticity. Dua questioned the skincare knowledge of Brown, the 17-year-old star of "Stranger Things," whose skincare line was released when she was 15: "I don't really trust it because what expertise do they have?" Additionally, wearing someone else's makeup goes against self-expression, which is important to younger generations. "They don't want to be like anyone else, not even a celebrity," ten Brink explained. "They don't want to just emulate Addison Rae." | 2 |
Kasim Reed, the former Atlanta mayor who faced scandal in 2018, has reemerged in the political arena with a bid for a third term. He is now a top candidate among a large group of lesser-known contenders, focusing on addressing the rise in violent crime in Atlanta. Reed believes he is the most qualified candidate to tackle this issue, emphasizing public safety as his top priority. Like Eric Adams, a moderate Democrat who won the Democratic mayoral primary in New York City, Reed is also promising to enhance law enforcement while considering calls for a cultural shift in policing. He has pledged to increase Atlanta's police force by 750 officers. He stated in a recent television ad that they will be training individuals in a post-George Floyd manner. Most of Reed's main opponents in the nonpartisan election are Democrats and are conveying a similar message, which differs from the defund-the-police sentiment that arose during the 2020 protests. The outcome of Reed's election in November may show how much voters are willing to overlook in politicians as long as they believe they will bring peace and order. Reed's time in office was marked by aggressive behavior some saw as bullying, and scandals involving kickbacks, theft of public funds, and weapons violations. Felicia Moore, a top rival for mayor, is urging voters to consider the corruption cases involving members of Reed's administration. She stated that the leadership must be accountable for the actions of their administration because he was the head of the organization. However, in Atlanta, crime has become a major issue. The number of homicides investigated by Atlanta police increased from 99 in 2019 to 157 in 2020, a year that saw the largest one-year rise in homicides in the US. This year, Atlanta is on track to surpass those numbers. Some homicides in the past year have shocked residents, such as an 8-year-old girl shot and killed in a car with her mother last summer, and a 27-year-old bartender kidnapped and killed at gunpoint last month. A 40-year-old woman and her dog were brutally killed while on a late-night walk near Piedmont Park in July. The violence in Atlanta is becoming more frequent and widespread, with incidents occurring throughout the city at all hours. Mayoral candidate Sharon Gay, who was mugged near her home in Inman Park 18 months ago, pointed out the increasing randomness of these crimes. The impact of these incidents is not limited to the mayor's office, as Georgia Republicans are using the violence in Atlanta as a campaign issue, despite the fact that both Democratic and Republican-led cities are experiencing an uptick in violent crime. Brian Kemp is dedicating a significant amount of money to establish a new "crime suppression unit" in the city. The affluent Buckhead neighborhood is considering breaking away from Atlanta primarily due to concerns about crime, which could have a negative impact on the city's tax revenue. Some critics are blaming the current mayor, Keisha Lance Bottoms, for not effectively addressing the crime issue. Earlier this spring, shortly before Bottoms announced she would not seek reelection, Reed stated that crime in the city had reached unacceptable levels and was causing division. This was widely seen as a shift against Bottoms, who was once mentored by Reed, and an indication that Reed may be planning a return to politics. When it arrived, it was accompanied by a large amount of glamour. Reed made a statement at a lavish party at Tyrese Gibson's Buckhead mansion, emphasizing the importance of Atlanta's future. He confidently declared his return to the political scene, urging other major cities to take notice. In just a few weeks, he managed to collect around $1 million in campaign donations. However, the belief that Atlanta would benefit from a return to the 2010-17 era when Reed was mayor is controversial. Reed claims responsibility for maintaining low crime rates and for hiring numerous police officers during his time in office. According to FBI statistics, violent crime decreased in the city starting in 2012 and continued to decline during Reed's time as mayor. This aligns with the national trend of decreasing violent crime that began in the early 1990s. Despite this overall decrease, recent high-profile crimes have caused concern among residents, as have short-term increases in murders, rapes, and aggravated assaults compared to the previous year. Reed showed both conviction and practicality during his tenure, making controversial decisions such as dismissing the city fire chief for homophobic remarks and implementing reforms to address the city's significant pension liability. However, scandals within Reed's administration led to guilty pleas from several officials. A previous human services director, watershed management head, and chief financial officer have been indicted and are currently awaiting trial. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported in June that there seemed to be a federal investigation into Reed for using campaign funds for personal expenses, based on court documents and campaign records. In an interview, Reed stated that his lawyers were informed by the Department of Justice that he was not under investigation. The US Attorney's Office in Atlanta declined to provide any comment. Reed acknowledged in the interview that he takes responsibility for the issues that occurred during his tenure, and pointed out that despite years of scrutiny, no charges have been brought against him. He stated that he has undergone intense vetting and security measures that few people experience and survive, emerging with a clear reputation. He suggested that racism may have played a role in the scrutiny he faced, noting that federal investigations in places like Atlanta often target Black political leaders. In a recent poll conducted by the University of Georgia for The Journal-Constitution, Reed was slightly ahead in the mayoral race with around 24% support, but a large percentage of likely voters remained undecided. Reed's rivals are working to persuade these undecided voters that there are more suitable options. Some voters have grown tired of Reed. Bruce Maclachlan, an 85-year-old landlord residing in Inman Park near the location of Gay's mugging, expressed concern about corruption surrounding Kasim Reed, prompting him to question the situation. Maclachlan stated that he planned to vote for Moore, the City Council president, who had approximately 20% support in the poll and appeared to be trustworthy and untainted by scandal. Criminal defense lawyer Robert Patillo has experienced the crime issue firsthand. In recent months, his sister's car was stolen, his laptop was taken from his car, and a friend's house was burglarized. He expressed that everyone has been affected by crime in some way. Despite this, he still planned to vote for Moore, believing he would be more reliable and adept at addressing both crime and civil rights issues. He acknowledged the attraction of Reed, noting that people tend to turn to strong leaders when they are fearful. Pinky Cole, the creator of Slutty Vegan, a popular local restaurant chain, had a contrasting perspective. Cole, a well-known young African American entrepreneur in the city, stated that Reed had assisted her with legal issues her business was facing. She believed that crime and the city's business environment were closely connected, a common viewpoint in Atlanta. Recently, two of her employees were shot, one fatally, which had a significant impact on her. Despite the corruption cases surrounding Reed, she trusted his integrity and remembered how he had previously made the city safe. She expressed confidence that he would be able to do so again. | 2 |
The prime minister delivered the announcement during the virtual opening of the Global Centre on Adaptation's regional office in Dhaka on Tuesday. She highlighted the susceptibility of the South Asian region to climate-related natural disasters such as cyclones, floods, tidal surges, droughts, glacial lake outburst floods, landslides, and avalanches. She cautioned that even a slight increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius in temperature could have significant repercussions for Bangladesh and the surrounding area. The prime minister also emphasized the vulnerability of children, women, the elderly, and individuals with special needs to disasters, reaffirming Bangladesh's dedication to adhering to the Paris Agreement and implementing measures to reduce carbon emissions and other environmental damages. She mentioned that her government has initiated various programs to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts as outlined in the Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan established in 2009. She stated that in 2009, the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund was established and has allocated 430 million US dollars from their own resources for implementing the action plan. The government has been spending about 1% of their GDP, equivalent to $2 billion per year since 2010 for adaptation purposes. The prime minister also mentioned the Bangladesh Delta Plan-2100 as a long-term initiative to address climate change and natural disasters. Hasina emphasized the importance of building greater resilience in South Asia to reduce the impact of climate-related disasters, noting that nearly 700 million people, half of the region's population, have been affected by such disasters in the past decade. Before individuals have the chance to recover from a natural disaster, another one occurs, undoing any progress that has been made. To break this cycle, South Asia must enhance its resilience. Speaking about the GCA's regional office in Bangladesh, Hasina mentioned that it is encouraging to see that the office will assist in improving adaptation and climate resilience efforts in South Asia. She expressed hope that the office will share and exchange the best adaptation practices from Bangladesh and other countries in the region, serving as a Center of Excellence for adaptation measures. According to Hasina, Bangladesh is looking for support from the GCA Dhaka office during its chairmanship of the Climate Vulnerable Forum and Vulnerable-20, two important international bodies focused on climate issues under the UNFCCC process, in the next two years. Hasina also called on the GCA to consider ways to provide long-term support to the Delta Coalition. While praising Bangladesh's efforts in combating natural disasters, the prime minister acknowledged the need for significant changes to mitigate the effects of climate change. She expressed confidence that countries in the region have similar experiences and successful approaches to adaptation, and emphasized the importance of working together to ensure a better future for everyone. Since climate change is a worldwide issue, I urge countries to strengthen their Nationally Determined Contributions by the end of this year to address the problem and implement the 2015 Paris Agreement. In response to the repercussions of the pandemic, Hasina urged other nations to come together to combat the current crisis and prepare for future challenges. | 2 |
The annual assessment of human rights around the world was released by the US State Department on Tuesday. The report includes excerpts on various countries, such as Iraq, where sectarian violence, terrorism, and acts of revenge by armed groups have hindered government efforts to establish and maintain the rule of law. Sunni Arab groups like al Qaeda in Iraq and Shia militias with ties to the Iraqi Security Forces have been involved in violent activities targeting each other's communities. PAKISTAN: Despite President Musharraf's pledge to promote democracy and 'enlightened moderation,' Pakistan's human rights situation remained dismal. Security forces continued to engage in extrajudicial killings, while arbitrary arrests and torture were widespread. Corruption was rampant in both the government and police forces.
RUSSIA: Russia saw a further consolidation of power in the hands of the executive branch, with changes to election laws and new regulations on political parties giving the government extensive control over their operations. When considering the compliant State Duma, corruption, selective law enforcement, political pressure on the judiciary, and limitations on NGOs and the media, these factors contributed to a decrease in government accountability. In Afghanistan, progress has been made in human rights since the Taliban's fall in 2001, but the country's human rights record continues to be poor with reports of arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, torture, and harsh prison conditions. North Korea remains one of the world's most repressive regimes in 2006, controlling all aspects of citizens' lives and restricting freedoms such as speech, press, assembly, association, movement, and worker rights. Between 150,000 to 200,000 individuals, including political prisoners, were kept in detention camps where many of them perished due to torture, starvation, disease, and exposure. In Myanmar, the military regime employed executions, rape, torture, arbitrary detention, and forced relocation of entire communities, especially ethnic minorities, to maintain control. In Iran, the government blatantly disregarded freedom of speech and assembly by cracking down on dissidents, journalists, and reformers through arbitrary arrests, torture, disappearances, excessive force, and unfair trials. Similarly, in Zimbabwe, the Mugabe administration continued to violate human rights extensively. Official corruption and impunity were prevalent in both Cuba and China. In Cuba, the government, led temporarily by Raul Castro due to Fidel Castro's illness, continued to violate the rights of its citizens, including the right to peacefully change their government or criticize the revolution and its leaders. In China, the human rights record worsened in 2006 with an increase in cases of monitoring, harassment, detention, and imprisonment of political and religious activists, journalists, writers, and defense lawyers trying to exercise their legal rights. | 2 |
Toles-Bey, a 62-year-old small-business owner, voted for the former president twice, despite never participating in elections before. He now closely follows politics, a passion he attributes to Obama's influence. After Obama left office, Toles-Bey started a T-shirt company named You Can't Trump God, as a response to the emotional distress caused by President Trump's election. While waiting outside one of Obama's recent rallies, Toles-Bey expressed doubts about whether Obama's idealism still has a place in today's highly polarized political environment. "It's a different world we're living in," Toles-Bey observed. As Obama travels across the country to support Democratic candidates, some members of the coalition that propelled him to the presidency are feeling anxious for something new. Despite sticking to his familiar themes of idealism and hope, Obama's speeches during this election cycle are making some supporters question if they are witnessing a relic from a time of more civil political discourse. The New York Times reports that Obama continues to be a key figure in the Democratic Party, lending his support to high-profile candidates like Andrew Gillum, Stacey Abrams, and Joe Donnelly in the final week of the campaign. However, Trump's presidency has challenged Obama's approach to change, causing some disillusionment among the voters he once energized. Obama's advisers believe that he doesn't see resisting Trump and inspiring voters as mutually exclusive, as demonstrated by his speeches this summer that openly criticized the current president. However, like Toles-Bey, some Obama supporters now prefer a more aggressive approach towards Trump, as the new generation of progressives is pushing back harder than Obama typically does. "For a long time, older generations have dictated how politics should be, but we are challenging that," said 20-year-old Gabriella Lorance, who attended an event with Obama in Milwaukee. She was only 10 when he first became president. Lorance and her friends listed their favorite politicians as Jason Kander, Beto O'Rourke, and Sharice Davids, all of whom are known for their strong stances. Obama did not make their list. "There needs to be a new approach to creating change," stated LaTosha Brown, a co-founder of Black Voters Matter and organizer. She expressed her respect for Obama, noting his background as a community organizer, but she now views him as a "constitutionalist" in a time where more radical action is needed. Brown emphasized the need for change and stated, "Enough is enough. We cannot continue to be told to wait, vote, and prove our loyalty to this nation."
The division seen may foreshadow potential conflicts among liberals in the future. In the upcoming years, as Democrats look for a new leader to replace Obama, the tone in which they oppose Trump will be just as important as their policies. Some potential candidates for the 2020 presidential nomination have already made controversial statements against Trump, such as Joe Biden threatening to physically fight him and Eric Holder altering Michelle Obama's famous quote to a more aggressive stance. "This is the focus of the new Democratic Party," Obama frequently mentions conservatives in his speeches, shifting between criticizing the modern Republican Party and reaching out to "compassionate conservatives" who want to build a coalition. However, the next generation of Democrats may choose a more unwavering approach. In the midst of recent political violence, two progressive Democrats, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib, stood out for their strong language. Ocasio-Cortez tweeted, "Imagine if it was ISIS committing these acts of violence. How would this administration respond?" Tlaib took it a step further. In a tweet, she criticized Trump for blaming the Pittsburgh shooting on members of the #TreeOfLifeSynagogue, calling out his lack of leadership and compassion as POTUS. She emphasized that the victims were fellow Americans who deserved better than to be killed by a terrorist with an AR-15 assault rifle. Michelle Obama and her adviser Valerie Jarrett have both defended the importance of maintaining decency and appealing to "better angels" during Trump's administration, despite the frustrations among Democrats. Jarrett highlighted Obama's commitment to staying true to his message, rather than simply giving in to what people may want to hear in the moment. You convey to them the message that you believe is important for them to listen to. This is the essence of leadership." Some of Obama's supporters agreed with Jarrett. Kasey Dean, 28, who waited for Obama before his rally in Nevada last week, said it was the responsibility of politicians to inspire the country in times of uncertainty rather than resorting to fear. Hallie Sebena, 34, who attended Obama's rally in Milwaukee, stated that "there are ways to resist without being unethical." "We need discussions that start from a place of respect," Sebena added. Other liberal voters mentioned that they were so angered by Trump's administration that it influenced what they seek in a Democratic messenger. Tom Mooshegian, 64, in Las Vegas suggested that the person who runs against Trump in 2020 will need to be more of a "fighter" in order to match his style. Dana Williams, 41, also in Las Vegas, expressed concern that Trump's style of politics emphasizes personal attacks and suggested that Democrats may need to respond with a similar approach. Another attendee, Brown, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to match Trump's intensity. Obama, on the other hand, has been advocating for a more hopeful, civil, and incremental approach to politics in his recent speeches. In Milwaukee last week, Obama emphasized that the upcoming election is about more than just politics. He emphasized the importance of having a politics that is decent, honest, and lawful, and that prioritizes doing right by people and reflecting the values of the country. After staying out of the political arena for over a year, Obama has returned this summer to focus on supporting Democrats in key Senate races. He also tends to host rallies in urban areas with voters who are historically less likely to vote in midterm elections, such as young people and minorities. Jon Favreau, a former speechwriter for Obama who now leads a liberal media company, mentioned that the former president's views have changed on important topics like voter suppression and structural racism. Favreau stated that the Republican Party has become more openly associated with white identity politics and reducing immigration, while Obama has become more direct in his criticisms. By doing this, he has shown a way for Democratic candidates to critique without resorting to negative campaigning. Favreau highlighted campaigns like Gillum's in Florida, Abrams' in Georgia, and O'Rourke's in Texas as examples of the next generation and evolution of Obama's message of hope. He emphasized that simply attacking Donald Trump and Republicans with insults is not enough, and that a more comprehensive approach is needed. "What voters desire is for individuals to advocate for various causes." (New York Times News Service, 2018) | 2 |
Just prior to the start of a new series of climate discussions in Glasgow, the G20 countries announced their commitment on Sunday to cease funding for coal-fired power plants outside of their borders. This decision echoed a similar promise made by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Research from Boston University's Global Development Policy Center revealed that the G20's pledge signifies that nearly all development finance institutions are dedicated to reducing investments in coal and increasing support for renewable energy. Senior researcher Rebecca Ray, who co-authored the study, stated that if these institutions follow through on their promises, it will become easier for developing nations to secure official funding for renewable energy projects and phase out coal power plants, rather than constructing new coal-fired facilities. The study identified only three major exceptions - the Development Bank of Latin America, the Islamic Development Bank, and the New Development Bank - although many of the key stakeholders in these institutions were part of the G20 commitment. According to a study, Xi's announcement in September that China would no longer support overseas coal projects was a significant change, as it removed major financial backers like the China Development Bank and the Export-Import Bank of China. This decision quickly impacted the country's financial institutions, with the Bank of China committing to stop new overseas coal projects from October onwards. An expert involved in creating guidelines to reduce carbon emissions from China's Belt and Road investments noted that Chinese financial institutions were aware of the declining demand for coal power, which made it easier to implement Xi's directive. The expert emphasized that Chinese institutions were serious about ending these projects and were not seeking excuses to continue them. Analysts believe that China's decision to withdraw from coal investments was a significant move due to the economic challenges faced by the coal industry in competing with renewable energy sources. The decision was seen as a convergence of political, economic, and climate interests, with experts pointing out that the shift in economics and negative experiences with financing coal projects through the Belt and Road Initiative played a role. Matt Gray from TransitionZero noted that China now has the political support to stop investing in coal, a move that has been long-awaited. | 2 |
The ‘Bangladesh 2050 Energy Pathway’s Calculator’ (BD2050) is an innovative web-based computer model that displays the country's energy demand and supply, as well as their interaction with the country’s greenhouse gas emissions reduction target. Developed by a team of researchers from Cardiff University led by Dr Monjur Mourshed, a British-origin Bangladeshi, this online software model integrates energy generation and usage, carbon emissions, and land use in Bangladesh. It helps policymakers choose energy sources with less climate impact and allows users to balance energy sources against energy demand up to 2050. This calculator, supported by the UK’s Department for Energy and Climate Change and Bangladesh’s Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, is the first of its kind for any least developed country. It enables the government and the public to explore energy, economy, and emission pathway options and their impacts on various sectors. The calculator is accessible to everyone, providing an opportunity for all sectors of society to engage in energy-informed discussions and influence decision-making. British High Commissioner in Dhaka, Robert Gibson, emphasized the importance of using this calculator in making informed energy investment decisions for the future, especially as Bangladesh faces challenges in developing its energy infrastructure while tackling climate change. Dr Saleemul Huq, Director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development, highlighted the importance of Bangladesh planning a low carbon development pathway, with the assistance of tools like the Carbon Calculator. | 2 |
Anderson, an anthropology professor at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York, and a self-described introvert, expressed his dread at the thought of returning to the office as the country's economy reopens. He mentioned feeling physically sick just walking from the parking lot to his office. Anderson's desire to work alone is shared by many others, not just introverts, who also experience feelings of sadness and anxiety about returning to the office, even beyond the risk of infection. According to a Gallup poll, a majority of US adults working from home would prefer to continue doing so "as much as possible" post-pandemic. These supporters of online work are concerned that they may lose valuable benefits that have been discovered during the unprecedented experiment of widespread remote work. Some individuals who have never enjoyed socializing with coworkers have experienced increased productivity without the distractions of meetings and office gossip. Others who are concerned about the environment are eager to decrease their carbon footprint by avoiding daily commutes by car. Additionally, while many parents are eager for schools and day care centers to reopen, some working parents are enjoying the extra time spent with their children. For example, before the pandemic, Christine Reilley had to wake up at 4:30 a.m. to catch an early bus to Manhattan where she works as senior director of strategy and innovation for the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. "I am more well-rested now and able to dedicate more time to my work," she stated. She also mentioned that she personally enjoys saving time and money on commuting. While some may view working from home as overrated, it is mainly a possibility for white-collar office workers. Telecommuting is not feasible for those in manufacturing or service roles, as well as essential workers such as health professionals, emergency responders, grocery store employees, and delivery workers. With over 30 million Americans currently unemployed, some may find it difficult to sympathize with complaints from those who are still employed. The other disadvantages cannot be ignored either. Holding Zoom meetings from a kitchen table with distracted children and irritated spouses in the background can hinder productivity. Women feel that video calls make it more difficult for them to participate in meetings where men dominate the conversation. The current crisis has also added to the challenges faced by working mothers. Telecommuting, which was already becoming more popular, excluded many low-wage workers and was met with skepticism by employers concerned about decreased productivity when employees work from home. According to researchers, when workers are isolated from each other, it can negatively impact problem solving and creativity. Isolated work can result in feelings of loneliness and boredom, leading remote workers to put in longer hours. To ensure the success of remote work, employers must provide the necessary equipment and support, as advised by Laurel Farrer, CEO of Distribute Consulting. According to experts and advocates, remote work can offer numerous benefits if implemented correctly. One major advantage is the reduction in commuting time, which has been associated with higher stress levels, increased pollution, and respiratory issues. On average, Americans who drive to work spend 54 hours per year stuck in traffic, as reported by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. Additionally, remote work can lead to greater productivity as employees are able to work independently without constant supervision. One prominent study conducted in 2014 by Stanford professor Nicholas Bloom analyzed remote workers at a Chinese travel agency and discovered that they were 13% more productive compared to their colleagues who worked in the office. According to Global Workplace Analytics, a research and consulting firm, transitioning to remote work in the United States could potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vehicle travel by over 51 million metric tons annually if implemented half the time. The pandemic has shown some positive outcomes such as reduced air pollution and clearer skies over cities like Los Angeles due to fewer cars on the road. However, once people start returning to work, there may be a resurgence in traffic congestion, especially if individuals are hesitant to use public transportation for fear of contracting the virus. Bill Eisele, a senior research engineer at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, suggested that even if more people work remotely, they may still use their cars for errands close to home. He noted that office commuters account for only about 18% of all traffic. Additionally, Global Workplace Analytics estimated that individuals could save an average of $2,000 to $6,500 per year by eliminating expenses such as gasoline and day care. Furthermore, companies could reduce costs on real estate. The US Patent and Trademark Office reportedly saved over $38 million in 2015 by reducing their office space usage, as stated in a Harvard Business School working paper. A study from 2005 revealed that job satisfaction tends to rise as people spend more time working remotely, up to a certain point. Kate Lister, president of Global Workplace Analytics, expects that workers will seek a balance between remote work and in-office attendance. The belief is that the pandemic has demonstrated to managers that employees can be trusted to perform their duties without constant supervision. Many individuals who had not previously considered remote work have now experienced it and are enjoying the flexibility it offers. Jacquie Benetua-Rolens, a communications coordinator in California, has found joy in the more authentic version of herself that has emerged while working from home, including her 2-year-old son joining Zoom meetings in his pajamas. Benetua-Rolens emphasizes the importance of being forgiving and understanding towards ourselves and others, especially during times when we are all trying to balance various responsibilities. She reflects on her old office cubicle, which she used to love but now realizes she doesn't miss. Despite the mess in her house, she has no desire to return to the office. Jessica Keup, a single mother and computer programmer, moved to her parents' rural home in Tennessee with her son after her company transitioned to remote work in March. Since that time, she has been programming outdoors on the deck while her son interacts with the various animals on their large property. Keup mentioned that the isolation has helped her concentrate better and be more efficient. She appreciates not being disturbed by chatty coworkers who may want to socialize or seek assistance with technical issues. According to a poll conducted early in the pandemic, there seems to be a significant preference for working remotely. A Gallup survey discovered that nearly 60% of Americans who are currently working from home would like to continue working remotely "as much as possible" once restrictions are lifted, while 40% would prefer to go back to working in the office. The survey, which included 2,276 randomly selected adults and was conducted from March 14 to April 2, had a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 4 percentage points. When it's time to go back to the office, Keup intends to request the ability to work remotely from Tennessee for two to four weeks per year, as she finds the state to be beautiful. She mentioned that it is a time for relaxation and recovery, and she will feel its absence. This content is copyrighted by The New York Times Company in 2020. | 2 |
Recently, oil and natural gas prices have surged to levels not seen in years, causing power prices to reach all-time highs due to energy shortages in Asia and Europe. The International Energy Agency (IEA) stated that record coal and gas prices, along with blackouts, are leading the power sector and energy-intensive industries to turn to oil to maintain operations. These high energy prices are also contributing to inflation and could potentially slow down economic recovery. Consequently, the IEA now predicts that global oil demand will return to pre-pandemic levels next year, with increased demand forecasts for both this year and 2022. An increase in demand during the last quarter resulted in the largest depletion of oil product stocks in eight years, with storage levels in OECD countries reaching their lowest point since early 2015. The IEA predicted that the OPEC+ group will produce 700,000 bpd less than the estimated demand for its crude in the fourth quarter of this year, causing a shortage in supply until the end of 2021. The report also highlighted a rapid decrease in spare production capacity from 9 million bpd in the first quarter of this year to only 4 million bpd in the second quarter of 2022, mainly in Middle Eastern countries. It emphasized the importance of increasing investment to meet future demands, especially with a focus on clean energy transitions. The IEA warned that without quick action, global energy markets could face challenges ahead. The organization released its annual energy outlook ahead of a key climate conference in Britain, stating that the current economic recovery heavily relies on unsustainable fossil fuels. It was stated on Wednesday that investment in renewable energy must triple by the end of the decade in order to effectively combat climate change. | 2 |
Ankara, on Tuesday, July 17, (bdnews24.com/Reuters) - The upcoming parliamentary elections in Turkey are considered to be one of the most significant in recent history due to the ongoing conflict between the ruling AK Party and the country's secular elite. The AK Party, which is pro-business and center-right, is expected to win the election with a smaller majority. This has resulted in positive reactions from investors, who approve of the AK Party's economic policies but are concerned about potential tensions with secularists, including the army. The European Union is also closely monitoring the election, hoping for a new government that can revive Turkey's reform process. According to some experts, investors are not taking the risks seriously. Wolfango Piccoli from Eurasia Group, a political risk consultancy, believes that the recent elections in Turkey will not resolve the country's institutional deadlock and only delay the problems. Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan was forced to hold early elections after facing opposition from the army, judges, and political parties in his attempt to elect Abdullah Gul as the next president. Secularists are concerned that Erdogan and Gul, who have ties to Islamism, are trying to weaken the separation of state and religion in Turkey, although both men deny these claims. If the AK Party were to secure a majority of two thirds or more in the upcoming election, they would have the power to make changes to Turkey's secular constitution and elect their preferred presidential candidate without taking into account the concerns of the opposition. To ease the worries of secularists and appeal to the urban middle class in Turkey, Erdogan has removed many of the more Islamist members of his party and has nominated more centrist and female candidates for this election. Erdogan has also hinted at being willing to compromise on the issue of the presidency, which has traditionally been a stronghold for secularists. Despite polls showing that the AK Party could receive around 40 percent of the vote, an increase from the 34 percent they received in the 2002 election, they may end up with fewer seats due to more parties expected to surpass the 10 percent threshold to enter parliament. Polarisation is expected in the upcoming parliamentary elections, with the main opposition party, the centre-left Republican People's Party (CHP), the far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), and a significant number of independent candidates, particularly those who are pro-Kurdish, likely to secure seats. According to Ayse Ayata, a professor at Ankara's Middle East Technical University, the parliament is expected to be made up of contrasting viewpoints. Ayata suggests that a coalition government could help reduce polarization. A total of 42.5 million Turks will be eligible to vote out of a population of 74 million, including four million first-time voters. Analysts anticipate heated debates in the new parliament between AK Party ex-Islamists and CHP arch-secularists, as well as between Kurdish deputies advocating for more rights for their community and MHP ultra-nationalists who see these demands as a threat to Turkish national security and identity. Mehmet Ali Birand, a veteran TV commentator, believes the upcoming parliament will test whether Turks and Kurds can come to a consensus on resolving the Kurdish issue. The conflict between Turkish security forces and Kurdish separatist rebels in the southeast, which has claimed over 30,000 lives since 1984, remains a prominent issue. Despite this, election rallies have been primarily focused on terrorism rather than Turkey's EU accession bid, reflecting a growing disillusionment with the EU among the public. | 2 |
During a meeting in Copenhagen on Jun 8, Myanmar's Social Welfare Minister Win Myat Aye informed a group of diplomats, analysts, and members of a commission led by former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan that eight of the recommendations, including one urging authorities to amend the 1982 law, were challenging to implement in the current political environment and could not be immediately carried out. An individual present at the meeting stated that Win Myat Aye emphasized that citizenship reform was not feasible. The sources requested anonymity as Myanmar had asked for the discussions to remain confidential. Win Myat Aye and government spokesperson Zaw Htay did not respond to inquiries for comment. The amendment of the law, which restricts citizenship mostly to members of the "national races," the 135 ethnic groups recognized by the state as indigenous, was a critical recommendation of the Annan commission. The Rohingya, who are not recognized as an indigenous ethnic group in Buddhist-majority Myanmar and are instead referred to as "Bengalis", reject this label as it implies they are outsiders from Bangladesh, despite having a long history in the country. The Annan commission, established by Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi in 2016, aimed to address deep-rooted ethnic and religious divisions in Rakhine. Following the release of the commission's report in August 2017, Rohingya insurgents launched attacks on security forces, leading to a military crackdown that the UN has condemned as ethnic cleansing. Win Myat Aye, responsible for reconstruction efforts in violence-stricken Rakhine state, has admitted to doubts about the feasibility of repatriating the approximately 700,000 Rohingya currently living in crowded refugee camps in Bangladesh. Many Rohingya leaders insist on guarantees of citizenship before considering returning to Myanmar. However, Thaung Tun, Myanmar's National Security Adviser, stated that the government is working to implement the recommendations of the Annan commission as quickly and comprehensively as possible. He mentioned that over 80 recommendations have already been implemented in less than 10 months, with those remaining also under consideration. Questions regarding the recommendations not yet implemented were directed to the Myanmar government. Reports from refugees have described violence such as killings, burnings, looting, and rape by Myanmar security forces and Buddhist vigilantes in Rakhine. Myanmar has denied accusations of ethnic cleansing and disregarded most reports of atrocities. A deal was signed in January between Myanmar and Bangladesh to repatriate the refugees within two years, but disagreements have delayed the plan's implementation. Numerous Rohingya refugees insist they will not return unless the 1982 law is modified. Those who identified as Rohingya were left out of Myanmar's last countrywide census in 2014 and many had their identification documents confiscated or invalidated, preventing them from voting in the significant 2015 election. Suu Kyi, who previously stated that the government should have the "courage" to review the law, is now encouraging Rohingya to accept the National Verification Card, a residency document that does not grant full citizenship. Many Rohingya individuals are unwilling to accept the document, as they believe it unfairly labels long-time residents as newcomers and restricts their freedom to travel. The military, in collaboration with Suu Kyi, adamantly denies Rohingya requests for citizenship. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing stated in a speech that Rohingya lack common characteristics or culture with Myanmar's ethnic groups and blamed the conflict on the Bengalis demanding citizenship. During a meeting in Copenhagen, it was revealed that Myanmar had only implemented 80 out of the 88 recommendations from a commission due to political and practical disagreements with the remaining eight. Win Myat Aye then mentioned the recommendations that Myanmar was having difficulty implementing, such as creating an independent body to address citizenship verification complaints, empowering community leaders and civil society, and establishing a feedback mechanism on government performance. The second source interpreted this as a rejection, as in diplomatic language, describing something as difficult often implies refusal. Let's revisit this topic after the break. | 2 |
A former City Council employee, Shahana Hanif, made history on Tuesday by winning her election in a Brooklyn district that includes Park Slope, Kensington, and parts of central Brooklyn. Hanif, who is Bangladeshi American, became the first Muslim woman elected to the Council, despite the large Muslim population in the city. She was one of two South Asian candidates to make history with their wins, along with Shekar Krishnan in Queens. Another South Asian candidate, Felicia Singh, unfortunately lost in Queens. Hanif expressed humility and pride in becoming the first Muslim woman and woman of any faith to represent District 39. She mentioned the support of volunteers and endorsements from the community and progressive groups, such as the Working Families Party, in her speech. She emphasized the importance of creating a city that is anti-racist and feminist, one that protects its most vulnerable residents and provides equitable education. She also highlighted the need for a city that prioritizes local climate solutions and ensures that immigrant neighbors feel safe and welcome. Even though the election is over, she stressed the importance of continued community engagement. In the upcoming year, the City Council will see its first out gay Black women as members, with Kristin Richardson Jordan winning in Harlem and Crystal Hudson in a Brooklyn district. Several other LGBTQ candidates, including Tiffany Cabán in Queens, also secured victories. Chi Ossé in Brooklyn and Erik Bottcher in Manhattan were the only candidates running in their respective races without any opposition. Lynn Schulman was predicted to secure a seat in Queens. These candidates are part of a trend in New York City's City Council, which is on track to be nearly as diverse as the city itself next year. Over 24 women are expected to hold the majority of seats in the Council, marking the first time this has ever happened. | 2 |
Harris, the first Black woman and Asian-American on a major US presidential ticket, shared her life story as a representation of the American dream during the Democratic National Convention. She criticized Donald Trump's leadership failures, attributing them to the loss of lives and jobs. Barack Obama also spoke at the convention, highlighting Trump's mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic and its devastating effects on the country. The night featured numerous female speakers, with Harris specifically targeting women, young Americans, and voters of color in an effort to secure support for Biden in defeating Trump. Harris expressed concerns about the chaos, incompetence, and callousness of the current administration. She stated that the current situation is significant and we can improve our circumstances. She criticized the president for using tragedies for political gain and expressed confidence in Joe Biden's ability to turn challenges into opportunities. She made these remarks from a simple hotel ballroom in Biden's hometown of Wilmington, Delaware. According to opinion polls, Biden is currently leading Trump, especially among female voters. Throughout the convention, Democrats have been directly appealing to female voters, emphasizing Biden's role in co-sponsoring the significant Violence Against Women Act of 1994 and his plans to strengthen childcare and protect family healthcare provisions. Obama, who had Biden as his vice president from 2009-2017, expressed his disappointment that Trump did not take his job seriously, failed to understand the responsibility of the office, and lacked respect for American democracy. Obama criticized Trump sharply, stating that he has not grown into the role of president and cannot do so, with severe consequences such as millions of lost jobs. "Our worst impulses unleashed, our proud reputation around the world badly diminished, and our democratic institutions threatened like never before," Obama stated. The choice of a running mate is particularly important for Biden, who at 77 years old, would be the oldest person to become president if elected. Speculation about Biden serving only one term due to his age has made Harris a potential top contender for the nomination in 2024. Harris, 55, was named as Biden's running mate last week to go up against incumbents Trump, 74, and Vice President Mike Pence, 61. Hillary Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee, who lost to Trump, shared at the convention that she regularly hears from voters who regret supporting Trump or not voting at all. Clinton emphasized the importance of voting in the upcoming election, stressing that it cannot be another missed opportunity. She urged people to vote as if their lives and livelihoods depended on it. Clinton also pointed out that Biden must win decisively, as winning the popular vote may not guarantee victory in the Electoral College. She warned that Biden and Harris could potentially win by a significant margin in the popular vote, yet still lose the presidency. Listen to me. We need a large number of votes to prevent Trump from winning through deceit or theft. Democrats are concerned about Trump's attacks on mail-in voting and changes to the US Postal Service that could impact mail delivery during the election. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, a Trump supporter, has agreed to postpone these changes until after the election. Democrats are also highlighting Trump's policies on immigration, gun control, and climate change. Nancy Pelosi, the first woman Speaker of the US House of Representatives, expressed her concerns about Trump's disregard for facts, working families, and women, both in his policies and conduct. She emphasized the importance of women succeeding for America to succeed. US Senator Elizabeth Warren, a prominent progressive who competed against Biden in the 2020 primary, discussed Biden's plans to make childcare more affordable, calling it essential for working Americans. She highlighted the need to view childcare as a fundamental part of the nation's infrastructure. Kamala Harris, in her upcoming speech, will likely share her personal story as a child of immigrants and her accomplishments in breaking gender and racial barriers throughout her career. She became well-known in the Senate for her thorough questioning of Trump nominees, including Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh and Attorney General Bill Barr. The Republican National Convention, which will also be mostly virtual, is scheduled for next week. | 2 |
Students who arrive late will not be allowed to enter. If you talk to your neighbor during class, you will receive a warning. If you continue to talk, you will be asked to leave. Fadoua El Ouni was surprised when she took Kais Saied's constitutional law course at Carthage University, but later found that not all university courses were as strict. Saied was highly regarded on campus for captivating his students with his commanding voice and formal speech. When El Ouni heard him speaking in everyday Tunisian dialect, she described it as a surreal experience. Despite his suspension of parliament and dismissal of the prime minister, Tunisians are unsure how to reconcile his strict reputation with his sudden popularity among the youth. Some view him as a hero fighting against corruption, while others see him as a dangerous leader. Supporters believe he is the last hope for achieving the goals of the revolution, while critics question his authoritarian tendencies. Monica Marks, a professor of Middle East politics, believes that Saied embodies both positive and negative qualities. "We have seen that even people who are clean and have good intentions can sometimes become ruthless." Saied, a law professor for many years, is not known for extravagance like the family of Tunisia's former dictator. Instead, he frequents coffee shops and lives in a middle-class neighborhood with his family. His motivation stems from a sense of duty and responsibility to empower the youth and poor who sparked Tunisia's 2011 revolution. He aims to provide education, healthcare, and a better quality of life while fighting corruption, despite not seeking power for his own gain. Saied admitted to running for president reluctantly, against his own desires. "God commands that you must engage in warfare, even if you find it unpleasant. Responsibility can be burdensome, like a soldier forced to fight on the front lines despite not wanting to kill. Saied's office did not provide a response to an interview request. As a devout Muslim, Saied views his presidency as a test from God that he cannot decline. According to Mohamed-Dhia Hammami, a Tunisian political researcher at Syracuse University, Saied feels obligated to fulfill his duties because it is what the people expect of him." The concept in Islam is that everyone faces some form of trial. In his case, it is being the president. While this may seem like a fancy excuse for demagoguery, even his critics acknowledge that his beliefs are genuine, stemming from faith and a true concern for the underprivileged. Saied, who comes from a diverse background in Tunis, rose to prominence in 2011 after the initial revolutionary protests had subsided and Ben Ali had left the country. When protesters from marginalized areas organized large sit-ins in Tunis to demand major changes, Saied was one of the few established figures to support them. Videos of his visits quickly spread on Facebook. Despite being a member of an advisory committee during the drafting of a new constitution, Saied was not given one of the pens, which bothered him. He frequently appeared on Tunisian television criticizing the new constitution for giving too much power to Parliament and forcing voters to choose from political parties solely focused on gaining power. Tunisians would have a stronger sense of ownership over their democracy if they elected representatives with whom they had personal connections. The proposed solution was a political system that combined grassroots and top-down approaches, with power coming from directly elected local councils and a powerful president. Despite skepticism about the feasibility of this idea, one activist who interacted with the professor during the democratic transition noted that he was humble and generous, but also unwavering in his beliefs. (Due to the tense political atmosphere, most individuals interviewed preferred to remain anonymous when discussing the president.) For a large number of Tunisians, he was an essential figure to watch on television. Many felt that he was speaking the undeniable truth about what the constitution should entail, according to Amna Guellali, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for the Middle East and North Africa. His words were likened to a prophet's voice, carrying a significance beyond human understanding. His strict authority was admired by many, especially as corruption scandals and economic hardships plagued the country. This admiration led to the creation of Facebook pages encouraging him to run for president, a suggestion he rejected until 2019. The tale of his political campaign has become well-known in Tunisia: the use of the popular slogan "The people want," reminiscent of the 2011 revolution; the volunteers who joined his campaign without being asked; his insistence on limited campaign financing from his own wallet; the perception of being uncorrupt, despite rumors of foreign funding; and his landslide victory in the runoff election. He emphasized the importance of the people's sovereignty in an interview, stating that everything should start with them. He mentioned that he decided to run for president after being approached by a poor man in tears, which he described as a transformative moment. This encounter was not the last of its kind, as videos often circulate online of him interacting with impoverished protesters at the presidential palace or greeting everyday Tunisians on the street. Imen Neffati, a Tunisia researcher at Oxford University, stated that what sets this politician apart is his genuine concern for the people, a quality lacking in others. Critics, however, have labeled him as merely a law professor who did not complete his doctorate. Additionally, his conservative social views, such as supporting the death penalty and opposing equal inheritance for men and women, have been criticized. He has also spoken out against open homosexuality, attributing it to a foreign conspiracy. Despite these controversies, one trait that everyone acknowledges is his strong determination. An informal adviser and European ambassador stated that he will not negotiate with corrupt politicians or parties, which means he will not engage with Ennahda, the dominant party in Parliament, or most of Tunisia's business and political elite. According to diplomats, meetings at the presidential palace are one-sided lectures rather than dialogues. Advisers note that he only listens to a select few, including his wife. Since July 25, Saied's security forces have imposed travel bans and house arrests on judges, politicians, and business owners without proper legal process, leading to concerns, even among his supporters, that he is moving towards autocracy. Recently, his office extended the initial 30-day period for his "exceptional measures," but did not specify for how long. He is widely expected to attempt to alter Tunisia's electoral system and revise its constitution to increase presidential powers. Despite his promise to appoint a new prime minister by Tuesday, Tarek Kahlaoui, a Tunisian political analyst, was informed by presidential advisors that Saied sees the role more as a "manager" than a true head of government. Saied justified his power grab by referencing Article 80 of the constitution, which gives the president extensive emergency powers in times of immediate danger to the country. However, constitutional experts argued that his actions violated this provision, in part because it requires Parliament to remain in session. Despite his attention to legal details, those who know him mentioned that Saied often makes decisions based on emotion and instinct. Kahlaoui expressed that he believes he has been selected by the people, as they took to the streets and it was his time to take action. | 2 |
President Nicolas Sarkozy defended Muammar Gaddafi's recent visit to France by stating that the Libyan leader is not seen as a dictator in the Arab world. Critics have accused Sarkozy of prioritizing business agreements over human rights, but he emphasized that Gaddafi's visit followed the release of foreign medics accused of infecting Libyan children with HIV, a deal brokered with Paris' assistance. Sarkozy made a deliberate decision to invite Gaddafi to France after 34 years, leading to the signing of multiple business agreements. Sarkozy stated that Gaddafi is the longest-serving head of state in the region and the Arab world. He believes that France should engage in dialogue with all parties while remaining committed to its values. Gaddafi came to power in 1969 through a military coup. Relations between Libya and Western countries improved after Libya abandoned its weapons of mass destruction programs in 2003 and provided compensation to families of victims of bombings. However, Amnesty International emphasized the need for Libya to demonstrate genuine cooperation on human rights and trade matters as it reemerges as an international partner. The group stated that President Nicolas Sarkozy cannot simply rely on commercial agreements without also pushing for concrete measures to improve human rights in Libya. The value of the contracts signed between France and Libya this week has caused controversy, with some suggesting that the deals were not as significant as initially reported. Socialist Arnaud Montebourg described the visit as a "tragicomic farce" in parliament. Gaddafi criticized France, stating that it weakens France's influence and damages the universal message it sends. He suggested that improving political relations between Tripoli and Paris would benefit French companies. Gaddafi expressed appreciation for French companies in Libya and believed that the political climate had improved, which would help French firms develop in the country. | 2 |
Chen's case was one of the more prominent examples of the China Initiative, a program launched in 2018 during the Trump administration. China has been actively trying to steal American technology, including by recruiting overseas scientists as "nontraditional collectors." Many of the prosecutions resulting from this initiative, like Chen's case, did not accuse researchers of espionage or theft of intellectual property, but rather of a more technical offense: failing to disclose Chinese affiliations in grant proposals to US funding agencies. These prosecutions have been criticized for targeting scientists based on their ethnicity and for potentially crossing the line between disclosure violations and more serious crimes such as espionage. Critics in academia argue that these prosecutions have created a climate of fear among scientists of Chinese descent. Chen was arrested on January 14, 2021, during President Trump's final week in office, on charges of not disclosing affiliations with Chinese government institutions in grant applications to the US Department of Energy in 2017. He denied all charges against him, but Department of Energy officials have recently informed prosecutors that Chen was not required to disclose his seven affiliations. This has raised doubts about the basis of the charges. The Justice Department is considering dismissing cases and possibly retiring the China Initiative, which was started out of concerns about China's attempts to steal intellectual property through nontraditional means. Officials from multiple administrations have warned about the national security and economic threats posed by China's global ambitions. The program has led to several convictions, including a Monsanto employee caught leaving the country with a proprietary algorithm and a Coca-Cola chemist found guilty of stealing a valuable formula. Recently, a jury in Boston convicted Harvard chemist Charles Leiber of six felonies after a short deliberation. However, some cases against academics have been unsuccessful, such as the acquittal of Anming Hu, a professor at the University of Tennessee, due to insufficient evidence of intentional fraud. The Justice Department has also dropped seven cases against researchers in recent months. The most notable case to be dismissed so far is against Chen, who became a US citizen in 2000 and is a respected scientist with strong support from his university. Chen, who has been on leave from MIT since his arrest, expressed gratitude to his friends and colleagues for their support during a difficult year and criticized the China Initiative. Despite being relieved that his legal troubles are over, Chen highlighted the continued negative impact of the China Initiative on the academic and scientific community. The decision to drop the case was made by the new US attorney in Boston, Rachael Rollins, after new information revealed that the Chinese affiliations in question were not significant to the funding agency. Rollins acknowledged the profound impact that charging decisions have on people's lives. In my role as the United States attorney, I will always support our prosecutors in conducting thorough and ongoing reviews at every stage of a case. The decision to dismiss the case against Chen today was made after careful consideration and is in the best interest of justice. When Chen was arrested a year ago, the prosecutor's office had a different tone. They implied that Chen's actions were not just about greed, but also about loyalty to China. The charges filed later were more limited, focusing on two counts of wire fraud related to Chen's failure to disclose certain affiliations while applying for a federal grant. These affiliations included roles as a consultant for the Chinese government and other organizations. He was accused of not disclosing a Chinese bank account with over $10,000 and providing false information to government officials in grant disclosures. Officials at the Department of Energy stated that Chen's undisclosed affiliations would not have affected the grant money. Chen's lawyer, Robert Fisher, praised witnesses who clarified misunderstandings about scientific collaborations and stated that Chen never lied. Fisher, from Nixon Peabody, expressed relief that the government recognized Chen's innocence, emphasizing that their defense was not based on legal technicalities. Our defense was simply that Gang did not commit any of the offenses he was charged with. The Biden administration is expected to make changes to the China Initiative soon, as the Department of Justice reviews its approach to countering threats from the Chinese government. The name China Initiative may be changed and cases may no longer be grouped together but instead handled by the National Security Division. Officials are considering resolving grant fraud cases individually rather than offering amnesty. Among those who are advising the Justice Department to refrain from prosecuting individuals based on grant disclosures is Lelling himself, one of the creators of the initiative, who is now working in private practice in Boston. In a recent post on LinkedIn, he expressed his belief that the China Initiative was originally meant to address espionage but has since veered off course and lost its original purpose. Lelling stated in an interview that it is important not to instill fear of collaboration and that the initiative has created a climate of fear among researchers in the academic community. He acknowledged that the prosecutions of academics have had some positive outcomes, such as encouraging research scientists to be more transparent about their Chinese funding. Lelling also noted that the prosecutions have been effective in deterring individuals, as the research community has been greatly intimidated by the initiative. "What is deterrence? It's when you don't speed because you're scared of getting a ticket. Deterrence is all about fear," stated MIT President Rafael Reif. He expressed his eagerness for Chen to return to his duties at the university and acknowledged the immense burden the case had placed on him and his family, describing it as "beyond imagining." Reif also expressed difficulty in coming to terms with the pain and suffering experienced by good people, whom they are proud to know, over the past two years. He mentioned the ongoing distress felt by Gang's friends, students, colleagues, and those of Chinese descent within the MIT community and beyond as a result of the case. | 2 |
Modi announced on television that the government has decided to repeal all three farm laws, with the process set to begin during the upcoming Parliament session. He encouraged protesting farmers to return home and start fresh. Leaders of the protests reacted cautiously optimistic to Modi's change of stance, planning to meet in New Delhi to discuss the next steps. Many of the protesters belong to India's Sikh community, and Modi strategically made the announcement on Guru Nanak Jayanti, a significant holiday for Sikhs worldwide. Farmer leader and activist Ramandeep Singh Mann expressed his elation, comparing the news to conquering Mount Everest. Mann stated that it is still uncertain whether the government will agree to the farmers' request for a separate law ensuring a minimum price for crops. He mentioned that the farmers will persist with their demonstration outside New Delhi until Parliament officially scraps the three laws. The Modi government has consistently supported the market-oriented laws enacted last year, despite the farmers' insistence on their complete repeal. The protestors endured harsh weather conditions, including winter, summer, and a severe COVID-19 outbreak in New Delhi. Modi's government had argued that the new laws would attract private investment into a sector that a majority of India's population relies on for their livelihood, but which has not been contributing significantly to the country's economy. However, farmers, who are already struggling with heavy debts and bankruptcies, were concerned that reduced government regulations would leave them vulnerable to large corporations. The repeal of the laws coincides with Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party intensifying its campaign for the upcoming election in the northern Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand, where many protesting farmers reside. After numerous unsuccessful negotiations, farmers changed their approach this autumn, following top officials of Modi's government as they traveled and campaigned in northern India to ensure that their concerns would not be ignored. In one such incident in October, a BJP convoy collided with a group of protesting farmers in Uttar Pradesh, resulting in the deaths of four protesters and four others, including a local journalist. The investigation into murder includes the son of a minister in Modi's government. Jagdeep Singh, whose father Nakshatra Singh was killed, believes the repeal of the laws honors those who died during a year of protests, whether from extreme temperatures, health issues, or COVID. Around 750 protesters have reportedly died, although the government claims to have no data on this. Singh sees the repeal as a victory for the farmers who sacrificed their lives to protect others from corporate greed. "They must be happy and smiling, no matter where they are located." | 2 |
No one present in the room had been told about Abiy Ahmed's second trip since securing a peace deal last year that ended two decades of hostility between the neighboring countries. A senior official mentioned that the foreign office was not informed and they only found out about the trip through Eritrean media, Facebook, and Twitter. Abiy's unexpected visits are characteristic of his leadership style, which some view as relying on personal boldness and charisma rather than traditional government channels. The foreign ministry spokesman, Nebiat Getachew, stated that the policy was well-coordinated despite the lack of prior notification. He did not verify whether Abiy had taken the July trip without notifying the ministry. Abiy received international praise for the agreement with Eritrea, making him a top contender for the Nobel Peace Prize, following Greta Thunberg. However, some Ethiopians are irritated by Abiy's unpredictable behavior. It is uncertain how much support Abiy's reforms have within the ruling coalition, which has been in power in some form since 1991, and how sustainable those reforms would be without his guidance. He has already survived an assassination attempt, when a grenade was thrown at a rally last year. Comfort Ero, Africa programme director at the International Crisis Group think tank, believes that lasting change cannot be achieved through a "cult of personality". She emphasized that none of Abiy's promised transformative reforms will be successful unless he works through the institutions. Ethiopia has been one of Africa's fastest growing economies for over ten years, but there is concern about Abiy's ability to implement all his reforms, which is causing worry among citizens and foreign investors who he has been trying to attract to modernize the country's telecoms and banking sectors. Some analysts believe that Abiy, a former military officer with expertise in cyber intelligence, may occasionally circumvent government ministries in order to ensure that his reforms continue to progress rapidly without getting bogged down in red tape. These reforms, such as allowing political parties to operate, freeing jailed journalists, and holding accountable officials accused of torture, have been met with enthusiastic support at public gatherings. Dereje Feyissa, a professor at Addis Ababa University, suggests that Abiy's success may be attributed to his charismatic leadership style, but raises concerns about its long-term viability. The initial excitement is fading away as some believe that Abiy's quick and significant changes are a strategic move to catch opponents off guard, particularly those who were part of the previous Tigrayan-dominated administration. Abiy, who belongs to the Oromo ethnic group, has made significant changes since coming into power in April 2018, including the arrest or dismissal of numerous high-ranking officials, most of whom were Tigrayans, for corruption or human rights violations. His actions have been seen as weakening the existing institutions in the first few months of his term. Jawar Mohammed, an Oromo activist and informal adviser to the prime minister, stated that the institutions were either not functioning properly or working against the prime minister's agenda. He believes that the prime minister's success so far could not have been achieved without addressing this issue. One of Abiy's major accomplishments was the peace deal with Eritrea in July last year, which ended a nearly two-decade military stalemate. Historian Asle Sveen, who has written about the Nobel Peace Prize, stated that the deal made Abiy a deserving candidate for the prize envisioned by Alfred Nobel. Sveen noted that the peace deal with Eritrea, along with Abiy's democratic reforms internally, have made him very popular. However, some benefits of the peace did not last long. Land borders that were opened in July were closed in December without any official explanation. Analyst Will Davison suggested that the previous year's reconciliation between Eritrea and Ethiopia may have been influenced by the Eritrean president's belief that the rise of Abiy signaled the decline of Tigray's ruling party, a long-time rival. Despite losing power at the federal level, Tigray's ruling party still maintains control over its region, which has a border with Eritrea, hindering further improvement in relations between the two countries. Foreign ministry spokesman Nebiat stated that Eritrea and Ethiopia had restored diplomatic relations, air links, and phone connections. "He stated that there are other ongoing efforts to formalize relationships," he said. According to analysts and diplomats, Abiy's diplomatic ventures, including his unexpected trip, are often courageous personal endeavors. A senior official from the ministry mentioned that the foreign ministry has been disregarded, which could potentially put our foreign interests at risk. The official also mentioned that Abiy has been discussing significant policy matters with Eritrea, Somalia, and affluent Gulf countries without obtaining agreement within his government. Nebiat disagreed with this statement. He stated that the Ethiopian government always carries out a well-coordinated foreign policy and diplomacy. He dismissed any other claims as unfounded. Some countries appreciate Abiy's hands-on approach. Following the killing of over 100 protesters by Sudanese police in June, Abiy traveled to Khartoum to persuade Sudan's new military leaders and the opposition to resume discussions. He also convinced Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to support his mediation efforts, which ultimately resulted in a power-sharing agreement in August. Amjad Farid, a senior representative of the civilian group that negotiated with the military, stated that Abiy played an important part. Abiy has implemented reforms both domestically and internationally, publicly denouncing past abuses and appointing former dissidents to key positions. Daniel Bekele, a former political prisoner and Africa director at Human Rights Watch in New York, now leads the government's human rights commission. Birtukan Mideksa, who established a political party and was imprisoned following a controversial election in 2005, is now leading the electoral commission. However, there is often ethnically motivated violence and efforts to address past wrongs have been sluggish. A reconciliation commission created in December lacks clear direction, expertise, and has only convened twice, according to Laetitia Bader of Human Rights Watch. Bader noted that it is uncertain whether this initiative will be more than just symbolic. | 2 |
A senior member of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and ally of ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, was shot by a gunman on Sunday as he left a constituency meeting in Punjab province. Iqbal is currently in the hospital recovering from a bullet wound, and Minister of State for Interior Affairs Talal Chaudhry reported that he is stable and in good spirits. Leaders from various opposition parties in Pakistan have all condemned the assassination attempt. However, a high-ranking official from Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) opposition party suggested that the attack was a result of large rallies protesting Sharif's removal by the Supreme Court in July. "We strongly condemn it. However, the political atmosphere is being greatly affected by Nawaz's unfounded accusations against his opponents, causing tension and anger everywhere," stated Naeem ul Haq, chief of staff for former cricket star Khan. "If Nawaz Sharif continues to spread negativity, such incidents will persist." Last July, Pakistan's Supreme Court removed Sharif as prime minister due to a minor case of unreported income. He is currently facing trial in an anti-corruption court, although his party still has a majority in parliament. Sharif has criticized the court's decision as a plot orchestrated by rival Khan, frequently rallying his supporters to express his grievances. He has also portrayed Khan as a puppet of the influential military establishment, known for interfering in Pakistani politics. Khan denies collaborating with the military and the military denies involvement in political affairs. The attack on Sunday has caused heightened anxiety leading up to the upcoming election in late July. Initial reports indicate that the attacker may have ties to a new Islamist political party that advocates for the death penalty for blasphemy and strict sharia law. The party, Tehreek-e-Labaik, denies any connection to the attacker according to a local administrator's report seen by Reuters. "We do not have weapons. We are engaged in a nonviolent battle. Those plotting against Tehreek-e-Labaik will not prevail." Khadim Hussain Rizvi, the leader of the party, denounced the attack on Iqbal, stating that Labaik is peacefully working to establish the Prophet's religion. The police confirmed that Iqbal was shot in the right arm, with the bullet entering his groin. The suspected shooter, identified as 21-year-old Abid Hussain, has not had a motive officially reported. Minister of state Chaudhry stated that there is a history of religious radicalism in the background of the suspect, and other individuals have also been taken into custody as police investigate various groups that may have influenced the attack. He emphasized that radicalism is not just an individual problem, but rather a societal issue that is cultivated by others. Labaik, the group responsible for the attack, was formed during a protest movement in support of Mumtaz Qadri, who killed the governor of Punjab in 2011 over his stance on blasphemy laws. The movement caused major disruptions in the country's capital last year during protests against changes to electoral laws. The recent assassination attempt on Iqbal has raised concerns about potential violence by Islamist groups leading up to the upcoming elections, recalling the tragic events of the past, such as the assassination of Benazir Bhutto in 2007. | 2 |
The demand for batteries used in electric cars is exceeding supply, leading to a global competition among investors, companies, and startups to develop the technology and infrastructure for mass production. While batteries were once considered uninteresting in the auto industry, they are now seen as a key player in driving innovation. Unlike car manufacturing, which has remained largely unchanged and unprofitable for decades, the battery industry presents opportunities for growth and advancement. The rapid evolution of battery technology resembles the early days of personal computers, mobile phones, and automobiles, with the potential to create new industry leaders. Wood Mackenzie predicts that electric vehicles will account for 18 percent of new car sales by 2030. It is estimated that the demand for batteries could increase by eight times more than current factory production capacity, with some analysts predicting even faster growth in electric vehicle sales. Car manufacturers are competing to find the most efficient and cost-effective battery technology. GM's recent announcement to go all-electric by 2035 was seen as a significant milestone by policymakers and environmentalists. Many people in the battery industry considered the company's statement about electric vehicles being here as obvious. Venkat Viswanathan, an associate professor at Carnegie Mellon University who studies battery technology, noted that this announcement was part of a series signaling the presence of electric vehicles. The battery manufacturing sector is mainly controlled by companies like Tesla, Panasonic, LG Chem, BYD China, and SK Innovation, with most of them located in China, Japan, or South Korea. However, there are also numerous new players entering the market, and investors are investing heavily in startups that they believe are on the brink of significant advancements due to the potential for substantial profits. Andy Palmer, the former CEO of Aston Martin and current nonexecutive vice chairman of InoBat Auto, believes that the battery industry is still in its early stages with more funding available than innovative ideas. QuantumScape, a startup backed by investors like Volkswagen and Bill Gates, is developing technology to improve battery cost, reliability, and charging speed, despite having no significant sales yet. Despite the risk of failure, stock market investors value QuantumScape more than Renault. Both China and the European Union are investing government funds into battery technology. China considers batteries to be essential for its goal of dominating the electric vehicle industry. In response, the Chinese government assisted Contemporary Amperex Technology, a partially state-owned company, in becoming one of the largest battery suppliers worldwide in a short period of time. The European Union is also taking steps to support battery production in order to prevent reliance on Asian suppliers and protect jobs in the auto industry. The European Commission recently announced a 2.9 billion euro fund to aid battery manufacturing and research, in addition to the significant investments already made by European governments and automakers in electric vehicles and batteries, estimated at over 60 billion euros by Accenture. Some government funding will be allocated to Tesla as a way to acknowledge the company's choice to construct a factory near Berlin. The United States is also anticipated to support the industry in line with President Joe Biden's priorities on climate change and electric vehicles. Biden, who drives a 1967 Chevrolet Corvette, expressed interest in driving an electric version of the car in a campaign advertisement. Numerous battery factories are in various stages of planning or construction in the United States, with analysts emphasizing the importance of federal incentives for electric car and battery production for the industry to thrive. Additionally, advancements in technology by government-funded researchers and domestic companies like QuantumScape and Tesla are expected to play a crucial role in reducing costs and enhancing battery performance, as outlined by Tesla in its plans last fall. Margaret Mann, a group manager at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, acknowledged China's strong emphasis on manufacturing and new development. She remains hopeful about the United States' potential to make progress in battery production but believes that there are still challenges to overcome. Entrepreneurs in the field believe that American companies have the opportunity to surpass Asian producers in the industry. Jagdeep Singh, CEO of QuantumScape, emphasized the need for improvements in battery technology for a renewable energy economy. Despite the challenges, the investment in battery technology is generally seen as positive. It utilizes capitalism to address a worldwide issue, but this restructuring of the automotive industry will have negative consequences for certain companies and investors. According to Venkat Srinivasan, director of the Argonne National Laboratory’s Collaborative Centre for Energy Storage Science, battery advancements take time and unexpected obstacles can arise. Many experts believe that the increasing demand for batteries will benefit China, as they refine most metals used in batteries and manufacture the majority of battery cells. According to projections by Roland Berger, a German management consulting firm, China's dominance in battery production is expected to only slightly decrease over the next decade despite plans to expand production in Europe and the United States. Tom Einar Jensen, the CEO of Freyr, which is constructing a battery factory in northern Norway to capitalize on the region's abundant wind and hydropower, stated that battery production has significant geopolitical implications. Jensen also mentioned that the European auto industry is aiming to reduce its reliance on imports from Asia, particularly China. Freyr is seeking to raise $850 million through a proposed merger with Alussa Energy Acquisition Corp., a shell company that sold shares before acquiring any assets. If the deal, announced in January, goes through, Freyr will be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The company intends to manufacture batteries utilizing technology created by 24M Technologies in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The primary focus for the industry is to lower the cost of batteries. According to Srinivasan, electric car batteries for a midsize vehicle currently cost around $15,000, which is approximately double the price necessary for electric cars to gain widespread acceptance. These cost reductions can be achieved through various small improvements, such as producing batteries near car manufacturing plants to minimize shipping expenses, and by decreasing waste, as noted by Roland Berger. Inefficient production methods result in approximately 10 percent of materials used in battery production being wasted. However, a recent study by Roland Berger has cautioned that the increasing demand for raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel could lead to higher prices, potentially offsetting some of the efficiency gains. The automotive industry is in competition for batteries with electric utilities and other energy companies seeking to store intermittent wind and solar power, further driving up demand. Jason Burwen, interim chief executive of the United States Energy Storage Association, has expressed concerns about a potential supply shortage this year. A new wave of companies has emerged to replace costly minerals in batteries with more affordable and readily available materials. For example, OneD Material, located in San Jose, California, produces a substance resembling used coffee grounds for use in anodes, which are the electrodes that power exits through when a vehicle is in motion. The substance is created using silicon, which is readily available and cost-effective, in order to lessen the reliance on graphite, which is rarer and more costly. In the future, the ultimate goal for the industry is solid state batteries, which would substitute the liquid lithium solution in current batteries with solid layers of a lithium compound. Solid state batteries are expected to be more stable, less susceptible to overheating, and capable of faster charging. Additionally, they would have a lighter weight. Toyota Motor Co. and other companies have made significant investments in this technology and have already managed to develop some solid state batteries. The challenge lies in producing them in large quantities at an affordable price. QuantumScape is generating a lot of excitement because they claim to have discovered a material that addresses a major obstacle in mass producing solid state batteries - the risk of short circuiting due to imperfections. Despite this advancement, most experts predict that solid state batteries won't be widely accessible until roughly 2030. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, acknowledged the difficulty of mass producing batteries, stating that creating prototypes is simple in comparison. Scaling up production is very challenging. Having a degree in electrochemistry is currently in high demand, as those who possess knowledge of materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt are crucial to the battery industry. For example, Jakub Reiter, who has been passionate about battery chemistry since his teenage years, was recruited by BMW in 2011 to work on battery science research. Recently, he was hired by InoBat to assist in establishing a factory in Slovakia, where various car manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Kia, Peugeot, and Jaguar Land Rover operate. Reiter is currently leading the science department at InoBat, a company that specializes in technology that enables customers to efficiently create batteries for various purposes, such as a cost-effective option for a commuter vehicle or a high-performing version for a sports car. According to Reiter, there was little interest in batteries two decades ago, but now there is significant competition and a fierce battle for market share. | 2 |
Following the protests in Brazil in June, President Rousseff has requested Congress to organize a non-binding national vote to determine what changes the Brazilian people desire. Rousseff has proposed various themes to be addressed in the vote, such as campaign finance reform and a potential shift from proportional representation to district voting. Recent surveys show that Rousseff's approval ratings have dropped significantly, indicating a possible threat to her re-election next year. The protests, which saw over 1 million people take to the streets, were fueled by dissatisfaction with public services, the cost of living, and spending on the 2014 World Cup. The protests highlighted the demand for a more transparent and efficient government, with an end to corruption. Rousseff has emphasized the importance of consulting the people through a plebiscite to address these issues, including the abolition of unelected stand-ins for senators. Under the Brazilian system, all members of Congress have substitutes who can take over their seat if they resign, for example, by accepting a Cabinet position. Rousseff also wants the public to have a say on rules that allow lawmakers to be elected with votes from supporters of other parties. According to a Datafolha poll, 81% of Brazilians supported the street protests calling for changes, with 68% in favor of holding a plebiscite. However, Rousseff's political opponents believe that the popular vote is a tactic to divert attention from the country's real issues, such as the lack of investment in infrastructure and public services, and to regain support before the upcoming election. Senator Alvaro Dias, leader of the main opposition party in the Senate, PSDB, argued that most of Rousseff's proposed reforms are already being addressed in existing congressional bills, and that a hastily organized plebiscite would be an unnecessary expense for the nation. He stated that these are not the most pressing concerns for Brazilians and that it is a political distraction. The possibility of a fiasco looms with the plebiscite, which also presents a risk to Rousseff as her main ally, the PMDB party, is hesitant about the idea and prefers congressional reform. Political analyst Andre Cesar warns that the vote may not happen or could lead to unforeseen consequences, such as Congress debating an end to presidential re-election. Despite Rousseff's approval rating and current status as the favorite in the upcoming election, some analysts question whether the plebiscite is the best way to regain support. According to them, Rousseff should concentrate on controlling inflation and revitalizing Brazil's economy, which has been mostly inactive for the past two years. While smaller protests are ongoing in various parts of Brazil, the main trigger for the large demonstrations has disappeared with the end of the Confederations Cup, a precursor to the upcoming World Cup. Despite this, there are other challenges to address, including planned marches by major labor unions on July 11 to advocate for their demands, such as a shorter work week. | 2 |
The graduate shows each May, which are considered the designer's final exam, are not only a way to mark academic progress but also a chance to network, create a portfolio, and potentially find future job opportunities. However, due to the coronavirus outbreak in Europe and subsequent lockdown in Britain, the school closed and the final show was canceled. Instead, students were given the opportunity to present two looks and a 90-second video in a digital presentation on June 17. This change has been particularly challenging for 24-year-old Ives, an ambitious American who has his own label and has worked with Rihanna's fashion brand, Fenty. Ives, who has diabetes, reflected on the challenges brought about by the pandemic while isolated in his apartment for three months. He questioned whether he would have pursued a postgraduate degree if he had known years ago that he would graduate without a degree show and have to be taught remotely for an extended period. This sentiment is shared by many students who are reconsidering the value of higher education due to the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Universities worldwide are facing layoffs and financial uncertainties as students, including those interested in fields like fashion, weigh the high tuition fees against the uncertain global climate. In the past, obtaining a degree from prestigious fashion schools such as Central Saint Martins, Royal College of Art, Parsons, F.I.T., and Royal Academy of Arts has been seen as a worthwhile investment despite the high cost. Fashion education has seen significant growth in recent years, with a variety of courses being offered by well-known institutions and new private schools like the Condé Nast College of Fashion & Design. These programs offer specialized courses, networking opportunities, and internships. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to travel restrictions and a decrease in enrollment. "We are anticipating a decrease in revenue next year and are being practical about it," said Valérie Berdah Levy, director of the Paris campus of Istituto Marangoni, a private Italian fashion and design school that counts Domenico Dolce and Alessandra Facchinetti among its alumni. Berdah Levy noted that some students are hesitant to travel to Europe and uncertain about when borders may reopen. She also acknowledged that some parents may be facing financial or health challenges that could affect their resources. The adjustments made by art schools earlier in the year due to the pandemic may influence their plans for the upcoming fall semester. Zowie Broach, head of fashion at London's Royal College of Art, mentioned potential changes such as focusing on presentation and research at the beginning of the academic year and teaching digital skills needed for remote work. Broach's graduates are currently working on a digital discovery platform for RCA2020, where each student will have their own page. This platform is set to launch between July 16-31. One positive aspect of the current situation is that the quality of industry speakers has improved significantly, as virtual events make it easier for anyone to participate. This has led to engaging discussions on how to use the pandemic as a catalyst for meaningful industry change. Recent events have featured speakers such as Sir Jonathan Ive, Virgil Abloh, and Olafur Eliasson. Walter van Beirendonck, head of fashion at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, organized digital "blind dates" for his master's students with renowned figures in the fashion world like Stephen Jones and Raf Simons. This year at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia, fashion and accessory graduates showcased their final work online to panels of 50 industry judges, including designer Christopher John Rogers and Bruce Pask, the men's fashion director of Bergdorf Goodman. Michael Fink, the school of fashion dean at SCAD, acknowledged that students missed being together and touching fabrics, and some struggled to adjust to working from home. We have shifted our focus from simply completed final collections to how designers respond to crises. It remains to be seen if fashion students, especially those from China, who have expectations beyond just obtaining a degree will appreciate these changes. Universities in English-speaking countries such as Britain, Australia, and the United States have become increasingly reliant on tuition fees from Chinese students, which are higher than those paid by local students. Due to ongoing travel restrictions and growing dissatisfaction among Chinese students and parents with the West's lax approach to public health, there are concerns that enrollment levels could decline after years of growth. Sir Nigel Carrington, vice-chancellor of the University of the Arts London, noted that international acceptances are currently on par with last year, but there are worries about actual enrollment numbers. Out of a student body of 20,000, around 3,000 are Chinese, with a roughly equal split between British and international students across the six colleges. The government sets a limit of approximately $11,500 on annual fees for British students, while international students face fees of around $25,000. Flights to Britain from countries like China are not set to resume until at least August. Many students are facing delays in starting the fall term due to difficulties in completing the necessary language test required by the British government. Additionally, there are concerns about a potential second wave of coronavirus in the fall, along with other challenges. A fee increase related to Brexit is expected in 2021, which could lead to a surge in enrollment of students from the European Union before the change takes place. This may help counterbalance the decline in Chinese enrollment, but only temporarily. Carrington stated that their institution is highly regarded for art and design, so there is still a demand for their courses. However, less competitive schools may face more serious consequences from the pandemic. As universities try to reduce costs, many lecturers, especially those on temporary contracts with limited benefits, are at risk of unemployment. The impact of layoffs and contract non-renewals at British arts universities could disproportionately affect women and people of color, as reported in The Art Newspaper on June 22. In fashion education, the identity of the teachers could play a significant role in students' decision-making process, especially at a time when there is a push for better representation and diversity within institutions. Despite uncertainties about next year's demand, schools like Antwerp are aware of the fear many young people are experiencing worldwide. While acknowledging the need to continue with education, there is also a recognition of the challenges students face in completing their portfolios and finding employment opportunities in fashion studios during the pandemic. Several smaller luxury brands such as Sies Marjan and Peter Pilotto have shut down recently, leading to many seamstresses and patternmakers being laid off or put on furlough even by the biggest fashion houses in countries like France and Italy. "I have experience working for large companies, so my original plan was to graduate and focus on my own label," explained Ives, a Central Saint Martins graduate. "However, the risks of starting a business during a major recession are significant. I am uncertain about my future plans, as are many of my peers." (© 2020 The New York Times Company) | 2 |
The cheerful Amazon employee at the opening of a Whole Foods Market in Washington's Glover Park neighborhood asked me if I wanted to start shopping by scanning a QR code in the Amazon app. I opted to use my palm instead, quickly scanning both hands on a kiosk and linking them to my Amazon account. I then used my right palm to enter the technologically advanced grocery store and spent the next 30 minutes shopping. I purchased a bag of cauliflower florets, grapefruit sparkling water, a carton of strawberries, and a package of organic chicken sausages. Cameras and sensors tracked my selections and created a virtual shopping cart in real-time. I then left the store without needing a cashier as Amazon would charge my account later. Amazon acquired Whole Foods for $13 billion over four years ago. The grocery chain Whole Foods in Glover Park has now been fully transformed by Amazon, with the store showcasing the complete Amazon-ification. While Amazon initially made small changes to the more than 500 Whole Foods locations in the US and Britain, the renovated 21,000-square-foot store near Georgetown marks a significant step forward in Amazon's involvement. This store, along with a prototype in Los Angeles, is designed to be largely operated by tracking and robotic technology for the first time. The technology called Just Walk Out utilizes numerous cameras to monitor customers from above. Sensors are placed under every item in the store to track shopping activity and improve accuracy. This advanced technology is similar to what is found in driverless cars, recognizing when a product is picked up and automatically charging customers when they exit the store. Anyone, whether they have a Prime membership or not, can use their Amazon account to shop without going through a cash register. Amazon has been testing this automation for over four years, starting with Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores. The palm-scanning technology, Amazon One, is also being used by other businesses like a convenience store at Dallas Love Field Airport and Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken restaurant in Seattle. According to Dilip Kumar, Amazon’s vice president of physical retail and technology, these stores have been valuable experiments. Amazon sees Whole Foods as another step in its expansion of technology in retail stores. Kumar explained that after identifying areas of friction for customers, they worked diligently to find ways to reduce it. One example was customers not liking standing in checkout lines, which led to the development of the Just Walk Out technology. He did not comment on Amazon's plans to expand this technology to all Whole Foods stores. According to my colleague Karen Weise at The New York Times, Amazon operates with long-term goals, allowing them to slowly transform labor, retail, and logistics. The Whole Foods in Glover Park, which has been serving the community for over 20 years, is more than just a grocery store. Despite facing closure due to a dispute with the landlord and a rat infestation four years ago, Amazon has announced plans to reopen the store as a Just Walk Out pilot project. While the rats may be gone, the neighborhood still has concerns about the store's reopening. The newly renovated store has ignited a lively local discussion among residents on the Nextdoor community app and a neighborhood email list. Some neighbors are divided on whether the store now has a "dystopian" atmosphere or if its technology is impressive. Many residents fondly recall the store's previous inviting atmosphere with free samples and blueberry pancakes on weekends. Alex Levin, a long-time resident of Glover Park, believes that people should not reject the store's changes but instead, understand the pros and cons of the technology and take advantage of it. He shared an anecdote about trying to trick the cameras and sensors in the store by placing a box of chicken nuggets in his shopping bag and then returning the item to a freezer, but Amazon was not fooled and he was not charged for the nuggets. Some people reported mistakes in their bills and were unhappy that produce was no longer sold by weight. Instead, items are now priced individually or in bundles. Some people missed the checkout line where they could browse magazines and impulse items. Many were wary of the tracking technology, comparing it to George Orwell's "1984," according to 72-year-old retired librarian Allen Hengst. Amazon stated that it had no intention of using video or other customer information from Whole Foods for advertising or its recommendation engine. Customers who do not wish to participate in the new technology can simply enter the store without signing in and pay at self-checkout kiosks using a credit card or cash. As a loyal customer of Glover Park's Whole Foods, I was looking forward to experiencing the changes in the store, but my excitement waned as I encountered the palm scan and the six-pack banana bundles. My ambivalence grew when I saw a sign at the entrance prohibiting shoppers from taking photos or videos inside. I looked up at the ceiling and saw many small black plastic boxes hanging from the rafters. An employee informed me that these were cameras that would track me as I shopped. Other workers were present at the entrance to assist customers with check-in, as well as behind the seafood, cheese, and produce counters. Kumar mentioned that the stores would continue to hire humans, but I questioned for how long. Amazon, which has faced criticism for its treatment of workers, stated that employees may see changes in their roles over time, with a greater emphasis on customer interaction and answering questions. There were indications of a shift towards a more self-service model. During a visit to a bakery, I searched for someone to slice my $4.99 Harvest loaf and was directed to a professional bread slicer for customers. A warning label advised customers to keep their hands away from the sharp blades and moving parts. Kumar refused to provide information on the effectiveness of Just Walk Out, so I decided to test the technology myself. I took an organic avocado and placed it among nonorganic avocados. After browsing the store, I retrieved the same organic avocado. If the cameras and sensors were working correctly, Amazon would have detected my actions and charged me for the misplaced avocado. At checkout, I could either use a self-checkout kiosk or skip the process. I chose the second option and gestured my hand over the exit turnstile. The turnstile's arms unlocked. A worker at the exit mentioned, "You should get your receipt in two to three hours." I left the store feeling uneasy, worried that I might be wrongly accused of shoplifting. I received an email from Amazon in my email inbox one hour later. The email included a link that directed me to my Amazon account for more information. The email stated that my shopping session had lasted 32 minutes and 26 seconds, with a total bill of $34.35. I was correctly charged for the organic avocado. | 2 |
The investors, which include Aviva's fund arm and Swedish state pension funds, sent a letter to food companies on Sept 23 urging them to address the risks of industrial farming and shift towards plant-based protein sources. Among the companies contacted were Kraft Heinz, Nestle, Unilever, Tesco, and Walmart, according to a statement from the Farm Animal Investment Risk & Return Initiative. Jeremy Coller, founder of the FAIRR initiative, stated that the reliance on factory farmed livestock is unsustainable and poses financial, social, and environmental risks. He emphasized the need for companies to have a strategy to transition to plant-based protein markets, which are projected to grow by 8.4 percent annually over the next five years. The campaign is based on a study from Oxford University that suggests $1.5 trillion could be saved by 2050 if people eat less meat. The goal is for companies to promote more sustainable diets by reducing meat consumption and increasing plant-based protein alternatives. This will make their protein supply chains more resilient to future shocks. FAIRR also contacted other companies such as General Mills, Mondelez International, Ahold-Delhaize, The Co-operative Group, Costco Wholesale Corporation, Kroger Company, Marks & Spencer, Wm Morrison Supermarkets, Ocado, Sainsbury's and Whole Foods Market. | 2 |
Maibam Sharat was the second in a group of six friends walking past a security checkpoint in Manipur when he witnessed a soldier shooting his friend Ranbir in the stomach. Despite being moved to a camp by the troops instead of receiving immediate medical attention, Ranbir ultimately succumbed to his injuries after taking seven bullets and losing too much blood. Sharat speculated that the soldiers may have been acting out of frustration and anger following an earlier attack by militants in the area. Human rights organizations and political parties claim that Ranbir's killing was just one example of the military's numerous abuses in Manipur, which have been carried out under the protection of the harsh federal anti-terror law known as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, or AFSPA. This law grants soldiers virtual immunity from legal action and has become a focal point as the state prepares to hold elections to choose a new legislature. Most political parties agree that AFSPA, which only applies to certain regions in India, should be either repealed or significantly modified. One legislator, Sovakiran Singh, has pledged to push for the repeal of AFSPA during the first session of the new legislature if his party comes into power. However, it is possible for New Delhi to override the state government and reinstate the law. Singh is hopeful that the government will address the concerns raised by Manipur, where 20,000 people have lost their lives in a separatist uprising since the 1960s. The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) provides soldiers with extensive authority to conduct searches, arrests, and even killings of suspected insurgents without facing immediate danger. Soldiers can only be prosecuted with the approval of the central government, which is rarely granted. This law, enacted in 1958 to combat separatist violence in northeastern India, is said by the army to offer crucial protection from politically motivated accusations. However, human rights organizations argue that the powers granted by the AFSPA have created an environment where security forces are able to commit abuses without consequences, including torture, rape, and murder. "They say that this has only increased anger and led to more insurgents. Pradip Phanjoubam, editor of the Imphal Free Press daily, described AFSPA as a result of the state's extreme paranoia. A senior official from the Border Security Force, whose soldiers were part of the Nongpok Sekmai incident, claimed they were responding to militant gunfire. However, few people in the village believe this explanation. Manipur, located 1,500 miles (2,400 km) from New Delhi, is considered one of India's most troubled regions, yet it remains largely unnoticed by the nation." Soldiers have been present everywhere in the state, leading to multiple incidents of violence in the past five years where innocent people have been killed. Despite public outcry and protests, there has been a slight increase in extra-judicial killings, with 18 documented cases reported last year according to Babloo Loitongbam, director of Manipur's Human Rights Alert. Phanjoubam and Loitongbam believe that New Delhi should prioritize a political solution rather than a military one to address the insurgency in Manipur and bring development to the state. It remains uncertain whether political parties in the region will be able to generate enough pressure for significant change. The Congress party, which has been in power in Manipur since 2002, has been indecisive about the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). Sonia Gandhi, the party chief, reassured Manipuris that New Delhi is sincerely considering the recommendations of an expert panel that suggested changes to the law 18 months ago. However, many Manipuris are still doubtful about any actual change happening. | 2 |
Christian Chapman, 41, likened his experience at Better.com's orientation to the excitement of a new relationship. He was enthusiastic about the company's benefits and goals as a mortgage underwriting trainer. However, Chapman noticed warning signs, such as a profanity-filled rant from the CEO during a video call. Then, last month, the CEO fired 900 employees, including Chapman, in a recorded Zoom call. Garg later apologized, but just over a week later, the company's board announced that the founder and chief executive was taking time off from his role. For nearly two years, employees have been using couches as offices and communicating through instant message avatars. The workforce, which had undergone significant changes, is now reevaluating how people should be treated in a corporate setting. Angelina Darrisaw, CEO of C-Suite Coach, noticed a rise in demand for her executive coaching services last year, suggesting that the tolerance for difficult bosses has decreased. "You can't just wake up one day and start leading people," she remarked. "Companies are now focusing on ensuring that their managers are properly trained to handle their responsibilities." The increased scrutiny of workplace behavior follows years of public discourse on appropriate conduct in the workplace. The #MeToo movement led to numerous executives stepping down due to allegations of sexual misconduct. The Black Lives Matter protests, sparked by the death of George Floyd, prompted corporate leaders to apologize for past discriminatory practices and lack of diversity in their workforce. With the disruption of work routines caused by the pandemic, people are starting to question and challenge the unpleasantness and unfair treatment they once accepted as part of the office environment. Some people are saying that they no longer want to work for unpleasant individuals. However, it is not against the law to be difficult, which complicates the issue of dealing with rude colleagues. The definition of a bully can vary depending on the perspective of the person being mistreated. In recent years, the popular image of a difficult boss is portrayed as a demanding and high-maintenance figure, similar to Meryl Streep's character Miranda Priestly in "The Devil Wears Prada." This type of boss may make unreasonable demands and belittle their employees. In reality, rude behavior can take many forms and vary in severity. The founder's strong vision and ambition can sometimes make it challenging for employees to question his behavior, as seen with Garg accusing fired employees of "stealing" by not working enough. Better.com referred to Garg's apology for the layoffs when asked for comment. Hollywood mogul Scott Rudin is another example of this trend, known for creating acclaimed art but also throwing staplers at his employees (he later apologized). Another example is Steph Korey, former CEO of Away, who expected constant loyalty and activity on Slack at all times of day and night, reflecting the intense millennial hustle culture. In a message to her staff, she expressed her hope that everyone in the group would recognize the effort she had put into creating a career development opportunity, and she also asked them to refrain from requesting time off. Along with this, she mentioned the self-determined leadership style of Oracle's Larry Ellison, who once described his approach as "management by ridicule." Ellison later disowned this tactic as that of an "inexperienced and insecure" CEO. Tessa West, a social psychologist at New York University, wrote a book titled "Jerks at Work," which outlines various negative personalities such as the bulldozer, the free rider, the gaslighter, and the kiss up/kick downer. A lot of the instances she discusses involve bosses, who are usually more difficult to report. West's interest in this topic is personal, as she experienced workplace harassment during her time in graduate school at the University of Connecticut. A peer engaged in sabotage by providing incorrect meeting times and criticizing West's clothing choices. Despite the comments not clearly violating any codes of conduct beyond basic manners, West was hesitant to address the issue. West reflected that the climate has changed and now acknowledges that certain behaviors are inappropriate. Going to work has always involved dealing with various unpleasant aspects such as commuting, small talk before coffee, and bosses who expect you to follow their orders even early in the morning. However, the past year has shifted the balance of power between workers and bosses for some individuals. This change could be attributed to the increasing number of people quitting their jobs, with a record-high 4.5 million Americans leaving their jobs voluntarily in November. It could also be due to the uncertainty surrounding return-to-office plans. More and more workers are feeling empowered to speak up to their managers, whether it be about making time for meditation with their team or having conversations about how the company supports the community. Jacquelyn Carter, 26, initially did not plan on quitting her job at the beginning of the pandemic, as she had been taught by her mother to stay with a team for as long as possible. However, the accumulation of slights eventually led her to reconsider her decision. Some of her coworkers frequently forgot her name. Others spoke over her during meetings. A manager at the company dismissed one of her ideas as "stupid." As a Black woman, she had to deal with insensitive comments from white colleagues. When she was at home, she realized she didn't have to face people making remarks about her appearance in the hallway. She saw TikToks of people celebrating leaving jobs they didn't like, known as QuitTok. One popular video featured three women dancing offscreen with text saying, "the company would rather lose 3 reliable hard working employees than fix their toxic management." Carter decided to leave her employer due to a rude coworker and started looking for new opportunities, ultimately joining Darrisaw's firm. The bad-boss-goodbye posts have motivated some individuals, like Kristofer Flatt, to transition from retail to office jobs. Flatt, who previously worked at a big-box store in Arkansas, experienced neglect from his managers regarding his safety concerns, unclear tasks, and lack of empathy for personal matters. He decided to leave his job in spring 2020 and pursue a corporate position. According to Janine Yancey of Emtrain, companies need to focus on creating a positive workplace culture in order to attract top talent. Yancey also emphasized the importance of investing in leadership and management skills, which she believes have been lacking in companies over the past few decades. Yancey, a former employment lawyer, believes that workplace improvements cannot be achieved solely through legal reform, as demonstrated by Ellen Pao's unsuccessful gender discrimination lawsuit. Yancey emphasizes the need for societal change, rather than just focusing on technical skills. Shani Ospina's role as a professional jerk patroller aims to hasten this transformation. An executive coach at Strategyzer, a software and consulting company, conducts 90-minute screenings during interviews to evaluate the personality fit of job candidates, emphasizing the importance of being a team player. The coach starts by asking candidates what aspect of themselves they are most proud of, then delves deeper by asking what aspect they would most like to change. The coach believes that while most people can be petty at times, the key difference is the ability to acknowledge failures and strive for improvement. One of Strategyzer's founders, Alex Osterwalder, identifies common jerk qualities as blaming colleagues, rejecting feedback, and gossiping about others. Osterwalder stresses the importance of screening for non-jerk behavior as much as technical skills. Jerkiness, similar to incompetence, can negatively impact productivity. Competent individuals who are jerks can have significant effects, particularly in a corporate environment that values results over how the work is achieved. Performance is often rewarded over being a team player. Baird, a financial services firm, has taken this concept further by implementing a "no asshole rule" that is communicated to employees during orientation and included in training materials. Leslie Dixon, who leads the human resources department, has terminated employees for not following the policy. Dixon believes that by clearly stating the policy in written form and discussing it with new hires and throughout their time at the company, it encourages open dialogue about behavior that may not be illegal but could be uncomfortable. Similar to Strategyzer, Baird's policy enforcers understand that rudeness is not a fixed characteristic and people are not fired for occasional mistakes. Beth Kavelaris, the director of culture and integration at the company, even received feedback in the past that prompted her to reconsider her own behavior. Kavelaris remembered receiving a message from his boss, who advised him to improve his listening skills. He acknowledged that he may have interrupted her during the conversation. He mentioned that he has since improved in this area and has not received similar feedback in a long time. Recently, Garg, who had dismissed 900 employees via Zoom, issued an apology to his team at Better.com. He admitted to not showing enough respect and appreciation for those affected and vowed to do better in the future. The message ended with a commitment to transparency and the sharing of goals for 2022. His downfall occurred at a time when almost every company is focused on retaining talent. Without a strong staff, it is impossible to achieve metrics. Many businesses are recognizing that misconduct is a major factor in reducing workforce numbers. Darrisaw, from C-Suite Coach, assists companies in evaluating their culture and addressing issues such as high turnover rates on specific teams. "That frequently indicates the type of management approach in place." Workers may occasionally publicly criticize their harsh coworkers, while in other instances, this task is left to those who are resigning. This suggests that the departure of employees could create issues for the unpleasant individuals. ©2022 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
The election is a significant way to measure the popularity of the junta led by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who has restricted political activity since taking power in a coup in 2014. Polls before the referendum showed a slight advantage for the acceptance of the new constitution, but many voters were undecided. Initial results were anticipated to be announced at 8pm local time. Prayuth stated that he will not step down if the constitution is rejected and that an election will occur next year regardless of the outcome. He urged Thais to vote after casting his own ballot on Sunday. "I encourage all individuals to participate in voting in order to determine the fate of the nation," Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha informed journalists at a polling place in northwest Bangkok. During his remarks, he was interrupted by one woman who questioned his ability to govern and protect the country before being escorted away by security. Approximately 200,000 police were present during the vote in Thailand. The largest political parties in the country did not support the constitution, but there were no protests or issues. The military junta, also known as the National Council for Peace and Order, has prohibited any criticism of the constitution. Many individuals, including politicians and student activists, have been arrested and charged for speaking out against it. Critics believe the constitution is the military's way of trying to eliminate former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his popular political style from Thai politics. Thaksin was removed in a coup in 2006, and since then, Thailand has experienced more than a decade of political unrest. Although Thaksin lives in exile, he continues to have a significant impact, especially among his supporters in northern Thailand. His sister Yingluck Shinawatra won a landslide victory in the 2011 elections but was ousted by Prayuth in a coup three years later. Despite being banned from politics for five years due to allegations of mismanaging a rice scheme, Yingluck was still able to vote in the recent election and encouraged others to do the same. Thaksin criticized the new constitution, calling it a mistake that would only strengthen the junta's power and hinder Thailand's governance. Reuters interviews with high-ranking officials revealed that the military aims to prevent future coups by implementing a new constitution that weakens political parties and gives the military a role in overseeing the nation's economic and political progress. The proposed constitution, Thailand's 20th since the military ended the absolute monarchy in 1932, includes a Senate appointed by the junta with seats designated for military leaders to limit the authority of elected officials. In Khon Kaen, approximately 50 voters lined up to vote outside the city hall that had been previously destroyed during political turmoil in 2010. Farmer Thongyoon Khaenkhaomeng, voting at a nearby school, expressed his desire for the country to improve and voted in favor of the constitution in hopes of bridging Thailand's societal divides. Day laborer Decha Shangkamanee explained that he voted against the charter due to his disapproval of the junta, but he expressed skepticism that the referendum would result in any significant change. Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra also shared her hopes for the country's improvement after voting, while farmer Thongyoon Khaenkhaomeng, who voted in favor of the constitution, expressed his desire to see an end to Thailand's divisions. Day laborer Decha Shangkamanee expressed his opposition to the charter due to his dislike of the junta, but he doubted that the referendum would bring about significant change. According to him, the country's ruling system remains the same regardless of the outcome. The vote took place amid concerns about the health of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, with the military historically using its role as protector of the monarch to justify political interventions. The United Nations is advocating for increased communication between the military and political adversaries, regardless of the referendum result, in order to promote reconciliation. He told Reuters before the referendum that there can be no reconciliation if one group insists on reconciliation only on their terms. In order to ensure that nobody is left behind in the country, it is important to consider an inclusive process, open dialogue, and allowing people to share their opinions. Two students in Chaiyaphum were arrested for distributing leaflets against the referendum, according to Police Colonel Aram Prajit. Despite the ban on campaigning, the military junta has sent thousands of military cadets to urge Thailand's 50 million eligible voters to participate in the referendum. The Election Commission is aiming for an 80 percent turnout. Amnesty International stated on Friday that the military regime had established a frightening atmosphere leading up to the election by committing widespread human rights abuses. | 2 |
While the recent presidential election in Ukraine was peaceful, the situation in the eastern region near the Russian border remains unstable, with armed groups attacking Ukrainian government forces and taking control of state buildings. The G7 stated that they are prepared to increase targeted sanctions on Russia if necessary. German Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasized the importance of ensuring stability in Ukraine and warned of the possibility of heavier sanctions if progress is not made. Despite minor sanctions already in place, further actions will be considered if the situation does not improve. The successful election on May 25th has been seen as a positive sign, potentially reducing the need for additional sanctions. Wednesday's announcement indicates that the West is still not satisfied with President Vladimir Putin's efforts to de-escalate the situation in eastern Ukraine. Despite Russia's denial of involvement in the uprising in the region, Putin has defended his right to protect Russian-speaking individuals. While Putin has been excluded from the G7 summit, he will have private meetings with Merkel, Hollande, and Cameron at a D-Day anniversary event in France. The focus of the summit will include discussions on economics, trade, climate, and energy policy, with a particular emphasis on energy security in Europe. European leaders are committed to reducing their dependence on Russian energy sources, but this transition will take time and be costly. The G7 leaders are expected to release a statement highlighting the importance of ensuring the security of energy supplies and condemning the use of energy as a tool for political coercion. The situation in Ukraine highlights the importance of prioritizing energy security and taking significant steps to diversify energy sources. The economic talks among G7 members - United States, Canada, Germany, France, Britain, Japan, and Italy - will focus on sustaining economic growth and implementing stricter regulations to prevent future banking crises. The leaders will also reaffirm their dedication to completing financial reforms, including addressing issues related to "too-big-to-fail" banks. | 2 |
Russia has expanded its military presence to the borders of NATO countries, including the Baltic nations, after invading Ukraine and deploying troops in Belarus. If Russia is successful in taking over Ukraine and maintaining bases in Belarus, its forces will stretch from the Baltics and Poland to Slovakia, Hungary, and northern Romania, making it challenging for NATO to defend its eastern flank. The proximity of Russian forces in Belarus to Kaliningrad, a territory on the Baltic Sea with missiles capable of reaching Europe, poses a significant risk for NATO. The level of risk for NATO has greatly increased, according to experts, and the possibility of conflict with Russian forces in various regions will be a concern for years to come. This development has major implications for NATO, according to foreign policy experts. Russia wants to eliminate Ukraine as an independent country in Europe. NATO is responding by sending more troops and aircraft to member states near Russia. There are talks of increasing deployments and possibly cancelling the 1997 NATO-Russia Founding Act. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said that Russia's actions are a serious threat to Euro-Atlantic security and additional defensive forces are being deployed. Discussions about Europe's security are now more complex with Russian troops on NATO's eastern flank. Even if there is a significant increase in military spending in response to the recent Russian invasion, similar to the modest increase seen after Russia took Crimea, the permanent deployment of forces, equipment, planes, and missiles will have a significant impact on the peace, prosperity, and complacency that has been enjoyed by the alliance for the past 30 years. NATO had been focusing on other important issues such as climate and cyber, neglecting its core responsibility, but it is now realizing the importance of being prepared for ruthless adversaries who view foreign policy as a blood sport. With NATO already revising its strategic concept and discussing a replacement for Stoltenberg, the urgency to reassess its purpose has become even more apparent. Benjamin Hodges, a former commander of US forces in Europe who is now with the Centre for European Policy Analysis, stated that deterring a newly aggressive Russia will not be easy. Moving troops and equipment around in post-Cold War Europe has become more challenging due to some bridges and railways being unable to handle heavy armor. Hodges mentioned that political leaders will be surprised by how long it takes to move items due to EU road regulations and the lack of special priority on the German rail system. NATO also lacks significant air and missile defenses for modern air warfare that targets critical infrastructure like airports, roads, and rail. Hodges noted that protecting the US air base at Ramstein in Germany would require an entire battalion of Patriot missiles, but there is only one Patriot battalion in Europe. The Fulda Gap in Germany, once a concern for Cold War strategists, was heavily defended by US troops to prevent the Warsaw Pact from quickly moving tanks from East Germany to the Rhine River. The current issue at hand is the Suwalki Corridor, a narrow passage connecting Poland to Lithuania. If this corridor is taken, it would result in the three Baltic nations being cut off from the rest of NATO. The corridor serves as a border between Belarus and Kaliningrad, the headquarters of the Russian Baltic Fleet. There are concerns that an empowered Putin may demand direct access from Belarus to Kaliningrad. This could be part of a new Russian strategy to separate the Baltics from NATO and show that the alliance cannot protect these countries. The threat to Poland is now significant, and it is recommended that the United States deploy two heavy battalions to Poland as a first step. Additionally, there is a need to strengthen the deployments in the Baltic states. In 2016, NATO made the decision to station battalions in Poland and the Baltic nations for the first time, called an "enhanced forward presence." These battalions have around 1,100 soldiers each and are combat-ready, but relatively small and more symbolic than a substantial deterrent against a Russian advance. Additionally, in 2014, NATO created a "very high readiness joint task force" led by Turkey, designed to respond quickly to threats to NATO sovereignty. This task force includes a land brigade of approximately 5,000 troops, backed by air, sea, and special forces, with additional reinforcements that can be deployed within 30 days. However, the effectiveness of this smaller force is unproven, and the larger Response Force it is part of is significantly smaller than the Russian invasion force in Ukraine. The larger force, established in 2002 for rapid deployment, consists of 40,000 members based in their home countries, making coordination difficult. There are concerns about NATO members fulfilling their promise to send weapons to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Supplying arms by air, rail, or road may be intercepted by the Russian military, even if delivered by contractors. The risk of accidental confrontations and escalation in the tense atmosphere cannot be ignored. Analysts are pointing to the incident in 2015 when Turkey shot down a Russian fighter plane near the Syria-Turkey border as a potential catalyst for escalation. The arms control agreements that helped keep the Cold War cold are now mostly defunct, which raises concerns about the deployment of conventional forces and medium-range missiles. Russia's involvement in cyberwarfare, including hacking the German Parliament and interfering in elections, as well as spreading disinformation on social media in various languages, has also heightened security threats. These new threats emphasize the need for stronger cooperation between the European Union and NATO on defense, according to Lesser. By coordinating with the EU on areas like economic sanctions, cyber resilience, energy security, and information warfare, both organizations can benefit, especially since many EU members are also part of NATO. Bond expressed the importance of maintaining a relationship with the Americans while also emphasizing the need for European autonomy and self-reliance. In Europe, there is uncertainty about whether President Joe Biden will run and win again in 2024, leading to concerns about the possibility of former President Donald Trump or a Republican with similar isolationist views taking office. Bond stressed the importance of Europe increasing military spending and efficiency to address real capability needs, as this has become crucial rather than just a theoretical concept. | 2 |
Germany's top corporate executives are facing criticism following a police raid on one of the country's most respected CEOs, Klaus Zumwinkel of Deutsche Post. This latest scandal, along with previous ones involving Volkswagen and Siemens, has eroded public trust in the corporate system. The potential political repercussions are concerning, with commentators suggesting that the Left party could benefit from the fallout. Finance Minister Peer Steinbrueck expressed concern over the damage caused by the Zumwinkel case, warning that it could lead to doubts about the economic and social system among the public. The situation became more significant on Friday when a newspaper revealed that the investigation could expand to include hundreds of wealthy and influential Germans with offshore bank accounts. Germany's reputation post-World War II is based on its strong economy and successful corporations, highlighted by its title as the top exporter globally and the presence of many companies that lead their industries. Even though salaries for executives are lower compared to the United States and Britain, there is a growing dissatisfaction among Germans who believe they are not benefiting from the economic growth of Europe's largest economy. Disposable income has decreased for lower income individuals, leading to media criticism of excessive executive pay. One example is Juergen Schrempp, the former CEO of Daimler, who received a significant payout and stock options during the failed merger with Chrysler, causing shareholders to lose money. The case of Zumwinkel contributes to the widespread belief that top executives are dishonest, as stated by the Sueddeutsche Zeitung in an editorial. Despite criticism from politicians, including Merkel, regarding excessive corporate pay, there is concern that public outrage over unethical bosses could lead to a shift towards left-wing policies. The rise in popularity of the Left party, made up of former communists and disenchanted SPD supporters, has influenced the mainstream parties to adopt more left-leaning positions. The negative image of greedy managers is seen as fueling a sense of social injustice that benefits the Left party, according to Klaus Schneider of the SdK shareholders' association. Former German finance minister Oskar Lafontaine, who is now a co-leader of the Left party, is advocating for an increase in public spending on pensions, welfare benefits, and education. Transparency International, a corruption watchdog, stated that there is no concrete evidence to suggest that corruption is on the rise in Germany. However, Peter von Blomberg, deputy head of Transparency International Germany, mentioned that the issue of corruption has gained more significance in the public's perception over the past decade. He also highlighted the communication model of Scandinavian countries as a positive example, emphasizing the importance of open channels between citizens and authorities. Von Blomberg suggested that German companies should implement and enforce compliance guidelines, as well as protect whistleblowers. He mentioned that in Germany, there is still a strong aversion to accusing individuals, stemming from historical factors. However, he believes there may be a conversation in the future regarding establishing a legal system to safeguard whistleblowers. | 2 |
Iran stated that it was communicating with major powers to resume discussions on its nuclear program soon. However, both Washington and the European Union denied this and urged Tehran to demonstrate its willingness to participate in talks. A year after the breakdown of the last negotiations, tensions are rising over Iran's nuclear activities, which the US and other nations claim are aimed at developing nuclear weapons. Iran refutes these allegations. The EU is getting ready to increase sanctions against Iran by implementing an embargo on its crucial oil exports. EU diplomats revealed that member countries had also tentatively agreed to freeze the assets of Iran's central bank, although they were still discussing how to safeguard non-oil trade from sanctions. Iran has issued a threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, which is responsible for a significant portion of the world's oil trade by sea, if it is unable to sell its own oil. This has raised concerns about the possibility of a conflict in the Gulf region that could escalate tensions in the Middle East. Iranian officials have mentioned that U.S. President Barack Obama has shown willingness to engage in negotiations through a letter to Tehran, which could potentially ease the recent increase in oil prices. Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi stated during a visit to Turkey that discussions are ongoing regarding the location and date of the negotiations, and it is likely that the talks will take place in Istanbul. The day has not yet been finalized, but it will be soon. Washington denied that there were any new discussions happening regarding resuming talks, but did not comment on whether Obama had sent a letter to Tehran. State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland stated on Wednesday that there are currently no discussions about talks taking place. She explained that the focus is on making it clear to the Iranians that if they are serious about discussing their nuclear program and being transparent with the international community, the US is open to a conversation. White House spokesman Jay Carney also refrained from commenting on the reports about a letter, stating that specific diplomatic communications are not discussed. The United States is urging countries to decrease their purchases of Iranian oil in accordance with a new sanctions law signed by Obama on December 31, which aims to limit Tehran's ability to sell crude oil. This denial from the State Department was supported by a spokesperson for EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, who represents the six world powers attempting to engage with Iran. "There are currently no discussions in progress regarding new talks," he stated in Brussels. "We are still awaiting a response from Iran to the substantial proposals put forth by the High Representative (Ashton) in her letter from October." British Foreign Secretary William Hague emphasized the need for Iran to be prepared for serious negotiations. He emphasized the importance of actual negotiations in the European Union regarding additional sanctions, despite an offer of negotiations from Iran. He stated that the suggestion of negotiations alone will not deter them from imposing sanctions. He expressed the need for meaningful negotiations and mentioned that pressure for peaceful but legitimate measures will continue if negotiations do not occur. He referred to a meeting of EU ministers that will discuss an oil embargo on Iran and mentioned that Tehran denies seeking nuclear weapons, claiming its enrichment work is for power generation and medical purposes. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta stated that the U.S. military is fully prepared to handle any threats from Iran regarding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Ashton, in a letter to Iranian negotiator Saeed Jalili, emphasized the West's desire to resume talks, but insisted that Iran must be willing to engage in serious discussions about ensuring the peaceful nature of its nuclear activities. Iran has consistently pushed for talks on broader international security issues rather than focusing solely on its nuclear program in sporadic meetings over the past five years. The most recent talks between Iran and the permanent members of the U.N. Security Council, along with Germany, came to a standstill in Istanbul a year ago due to an inability to agree on an agenda. Since then, a report from a U.N. nuclear watchdog has raised concerns about Iran's potential work on developing a nuclear weapon, leading to a prolonged deadlock in negotiations. EU foreign ministers are likely to approve a gradual ban on imports of Iranian oil during their meeting on January 23, following a recent US law that would prevent most countries from buying Iranian oil by freezing out any institution dealing with Iran's central bank. According to an EU diplomat, there has been progress in discussions regarding the central bank, with widespread agreement on the principle of the ban. Iran has expressed readiness to negotiate, but has also begun moving uranium enrichment to a secure bunker to protect against potential air strikes by Israel. Western diplomats are stating that Tehran needs to demonstrate a readiness to change its direction in potential new negotiations. Tehran is insisting that other countries must acknowledge its right to enrich uranium, a nuclear fuel that can be used for atomic bombs if enriched to levels higher than those needed for power plants. Russia, a member of the six power group that has criticized the recent EU and U.S. sanctions, has warned that the military option proposed by the United States and Israel could trigger a devastating conflict in the Middle East. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his stance that Iran should not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons while visiting the Netherlands. Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Ehud Barak stated that a decision on a potential Israeli attack on Iran is not imminent. China and Russia both oppose the new Western efforts to halt Iran's oil exports, with China stating that the U.S. sanctions signed by Obama are not grounded in international law. Iranian officials claimed that Obama responded to Iran's threat to close the Strait of Hormuz by sending a letter to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which included an offer for talks. Lawmakers in Iran's parliament discussed the letter, with lawmaker Ali Mottahari stating that it mentioned closing the Strait of Hormuz as the U.S.'s 'red line' and requested direct negotiations. | 2 |
The payments that began in July, providing hundreds of dollars a month for most families, have been crucial in helping many American families afford basic necessities such as food, rent, and child care. These payments have also lifted millions of children out of poverty and boosted the US economy with billions of dollars, according to government data and independent research. However, now that this benefit, an extension of the child tax credit, is coming to an end, it comes at a time when a new surge of coronavirus cases is forcing people to stay home from work and potentially leading to more furloughs. Economists are concerned that the combination of expiring aid and increasing cases could slow down the economic recovery and bring significant hardship to millions of families who are already struggling near the poverty line. For many, like Anna Lara, a mother of two in West Virginia, the thought of the support ending is causing anxiety and fear for what lies ahead. Lara, 32, who lost her job during the pandemic, expressed that it will be difficult to go back to not having the extra assistance for parents. With the cost of child care increasing, she has been unable to return to work while her partner has been able to keep his job. The child benefit helped the couple make ends meet during a time of reduced income and rising prices. Lara emphasized the importance of not worrying in front of children, and how the extra cushion provided by the benefit allowed them to worry less. The end of this assistance is part of a pattern of benefits coming to an abrupt end, such as the Paycheck Protection Program which supported many small businesses and ended in March. Unemployment benefits ceased in September, and in some states even earlier. The federal eviction moratorium expired during the summer. The most recent stimulus payments were distributed to Americans' bank accounts in the spring. Compared to those initiatives, the reduction in the child tax credit is relatively minor. The Treasury Department disbursed approximately $80 billion over a six-month period through checks and direct deposits, providing up to $300 per child each month. The child benefit program, unlike many other pandemic response programs, was not meant to be temporary according to its supporters. It was approved by Congress as part of the American Rescue Plan for one year, but many progressives believed it would become permanent due to its popularity. However, polls show that public opinion on extending the program is divided along partisan and generational lines, with some supporting and others opposing it. The expanded tax credit did not convince Sen Joe Manchin, who is crucial in passing President Joe Biden's bill due to his concerns about the cost and structure of the program. Without Manchin's support, the Build Back Better Act cannot move forward in the Senate. Many are frustrated by this as the child benefit program has been successful in reducing child poverty and improving financial well-being for recipients. In the spring, Congress expanded the child tax credit in three main ways. First, they increased the maximum benefit per child from $2,000 to $3,600. Second, they started distributing the credit in monthly payments, which are usually deposited directly into recipients' bank accounts, making it similar to children's allowances in Europe. Finally, the bill allowed millions of people who previously didn't qualify for the full benefit to now be eligible, thanks to a change known as "full refundability." This change was especially important as without it, a significant number of children, including many Black and Hispanic children and those being raised by single mothers, were not receiving the full credit. Biden's proposal would have made the child tax credit provision permanent, according to Megan Curran, director of policy at Columbia's Center on Poverty and Social Policy. Curran emphasized that the policy has been successful in reducing child poverty and food insufficiency. Additionally, the expanded tax credit benefits not just the poor, as even couples earning up to $150,000 a year could receive the full $3,600 benefit. Wealthier families also qualify for the original $2,000 credit. Critics of the policy, such as Manchin, have argued that providing aid to families who are relatively well-off doesn't make much sense. Some supporters of the credit suggest limiting its availability to wealthier households while maintaining it for poorer ones. Manchin has expressed doubts about unconditional cash payments and has raised concerns about recipients potentially spending the money on opioids. However, a survey by the Census Bureau revealed that most recipients used the money for essentials like food and clothing, with many also saving or paying off debt. Other surveys have shown similar findings. One of Manchin's constituents, Lara, received her first monthly check last year at a crucial time. Her dishwasher had broken just days earlier, and the $550 a month from the federal government allowed her and her family to replace it. Lara, who has a 6-year-old daughter and a 3-year-old son, and whose partner earns about $40,000 a year, expressed that the family has always lived on the brink of financial need, never able to save enough to handle more than a small setback. The monthly child benefit has helped them move further away from financial instability. It has enabled her to purchase new shoes and a car seat for her daughter, stock up on laundry detergent when it's on sale, and repair the brakes on her car. She remarked that it was remarkable that none of the dashboard lights were illuminated. Some experts have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the policy, especially in the long run. Bruce D Meyer, an economist at the University of Chicago who specializes in poverty research, pointed out that while providing direct cash payments during the pandemic was justified, implementing a permanent policy of unconditional cash assistance to parents could have unintended negative consequences. According to Meyer and his colleagues' recent working paper, the child benefit could potentially discourage employment due to the removal of work incentives that were previously included in the tax credit. Meyer explained that initially, the main goal was to provide financial assistance to individuals during the pandemic-induced economic crisis. He stated that the focus should be on the long-term impacts, particularly on labor supply. Despite some concerns, research has not shown a significant impact on discouraging people from working due to the new child benefit. Some experts believe it could actually encourage more people to work by helping parents afford child care. Samuel Hammond of the Niskanen Center in Washington stated that the child tax credit is likely to enable work, with no evidence to the contrary. He also believes the child benefit could have broader economic benefits, estimating an increase in consumer spending and job creation. The largest impact of the benefit would be seen in rural states with larger families and lower incomes. Some Republican critics, like Sen. Roy Blunt of Missouri, believe that the expanded child tax credit has led to increased government spending, contributing to inflation by giving people more money to spend during a strained supply chain. However, many economists do not think the tax credit has significantly impacted high inflation, as it is small compared to the economy and previous pandemic aid. Chief economist Joe Brusuelas called it a noninflationary programme focused on necessities, not luxuries. Those receiving the benefit argue that inflation is a reason to keep it, as prices for groceries, utilities, and gas have been rising, making budgets tighter. She stated, "At the moment, I need to fill up both of my vehicles with gas, but I am unable to do so. However, I have groceries at home and the children can play outside, so it's not a big issue." | 2 |
Two high-ranking officials from the US government will be in Dhaka on Wednesday to meet with government officials, community leaders, and civil society representatives who are involved in advocating for women's rights. The two officials, Democrat Congresswoman Betty McCollum and ambassador-at-large for global women's issues Melanne Verveer, will also be discussing US policy on women, health, and education during their visit. They will be discussing various issues with Bangladesh government officials and non-government organizations, such as maternal and child health, access to education for girls, child marriage, gender-based violence, human trafficking, and the role of women in addressing climate change. McCollum, a Democrat in her sixth term in the US Congress, has recently introduced a legislation that condemns child marriage as a human rights violation and advocates for its elimination as a US foreign policy objective. Additionally, the bill would mandate that USAID and the State Department gather and share information on the extent of child marriage and how it affects important US development objectives. As the head of the State Department's global women's issues office, Verveer oversees foreign policy matters and initiatives concerning the empowerment of women in various areas such as politics, economics, and society. Verveer is scheduled to travel to Nepal on January 6, while McCollum will remain in Bangladesh until January 10, as stated in the press release. | 2 |
In Gwinnett County, Georgia, four out of 156 precincts experienced extended technical delays, while some voting machines in South Carolina were without power or the necessary devices to activate them. Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, which includes Pittsburgh, saw some confusion as at least four polling places were relocated in the last two days. In Chandler, Arizona, voters were surprised to find a locked polling place due to unpaid rent, but the location was later reopened. In Houston, a worker was removed from a polling site and charged with assault after a racially charged dispute with a voter. Issues with voting are a common occurrence on election day, and it could take days or weeks to fully understand them. However, the number of calls to voting hotlines run by advocacy groups has exceeded those from the 2014 midterm election. The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, which oversees 20 election call centres, reported receiving 24,000 calls by 5 pm on Tuesday, compared to 14,000 at the same time in 2014. Four states - Arizona, Florida, Georgia, and Texas - were identified as particularly problematic. These issues may further unsettle voters already on edge from the controversial 2016 election, which has been scrutinized for Russian interference and President Trump's claims of voter fraud without evidence. There has been increased tension surrounding the issue of voter registration, early voting, and access to polling sites in America. Election experts believe that the rights of minority voters have been on the decline since the Supreme Court's ruling on the Voting Rights Act in 1965. Several states have faced issues with extended hours at polling locations, leading to legal intervention in some cases. For example, in Texas, a judge ordered nine polling locations to stay open an extra hour due to complaints from civil rights organizations. Similar actions were being sought in Maricopa County, Arizona. In Georgia, a local judge allowed multiple sites in Gwinnett County to remain open, including Annistown Elementary School, where voting hours were extended by more than two hours. Several precincts in Fulton County, which includes a large part of Atlanta, were also kept open for hours. One of these precincts was Forbes Arena, where a rally featuring Democratic candidate for governor Stacey Abrams and former President Barack Obama took place last Friday. The state's election system was a major point of contention during the campaign between Abrams, who aimed to become the first African-American woman governor in any state, and Brian Kemp, her Republican opponent and the current secretary of state in charge of elections. Abrams and her supporters accused Kemp of attempting to suppress the vote through strict interpretations of state laws and procedures. Kemp claimed that his goal was to prevent cheating and dismissed claims of voter suppression as unfounded. While some polling places in Georgia experienced long lines, others had a smooth voting process. Kemp stated that everything was running normally and there were no unusual issues reported. However, some voters in Gwinnett County had a different experience, with long lines and voting machine problems at Annistown Elementary School. One voter, Ontaria Woods, reported waiting nearly five hours to vote after arriving early in the morning. Poll workers notified people waiting in line after 30 to 45 minutes about an issue with the ExpressPoll voting machines. Many expressed concerns about voter suppression and some decided not to use provisional ballots for fear that their votes would not be counted. A few voters left to buy food and water from Walmart while waiting for the machines to be fixed. The issue was resolved by 11 am, and the writer, Woods, was able to cast her ballot about 45 minutes later, making her late for work. Gwinnett County, near Atlanta, has traditionally been a Republican stronghold but went to Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election. According to Joe Sorenson, a spokesperson for the county government, four precincts in Georgia experienced problems with the voter access card system for electronic polling. A judge allowed several locations in the county to stay open later, with one precinct closing at 9:25 pm instead of 7 pm. Bradford Berry from the NAACP expressed concern about voting machines breaking down in certain areas. While county officials were blamed for some issues in Georgia, Abigail Collazo from Abrams' campaign placed the responsibility on Kemp. Voting-rights monitors in Arizona also reported significant delays due to ballot printing problems at some sites. The issues were concentrated in Maricopa County, the most populous county in the state, where a transition from local polling places to regional voting centers resulted in chaos two years ago. Common Cause reported that voters at the regional centers were either turned away or faced long lines due to malfunctioning printers that were supposed to produce ballots specific to their precincts. The problems in Maricopa County were described as some of the most significant seen that day, particularly affecting minority voters. At four of the affected voting centers, minority voters (Latinos, African-Americans, and Native Americans) outnumbered white voters by a significant margin. In South Carolina, a spokesperson for the State Election Commission noted that issues with malfunctioning voting machines were limited. Chris Whitmire, a spokesman, stated in an email that the issues with the system were caused by human error in its preparation and were mostly resolved earlier that morning. The Justice Department sent election monitors to 35 jurisdictions in 19 states, but Attorney General Jeff Sessions drew criticism from Democrats for focusing on fraud rather than civil rights. Common Cause President Karen Flynn expressed concern about the current political climate in 2018, noting the lack of support from the Department of Justice, the absence of protections from the Voting Rights Act, and the intimidating messages being sent by the president. In El Paso, Texas, the federal Border and Customs Protection agency cancelled a crowd-control exercise along the Mexico border after complaints from civil-rights groups and Democratic leaders about potential voter intimidation near a polling station used by Latino voters. Nina Perales, the voting rights legal director at the Mexican American Legal Defence and Educational Fund, described the incident as clumsy and insensitive at best, and potentially more serious at worst. Not all issues were as malicious as some had anticipated. For example, a viral video from a polling site in Columbus, Ohio, depicted a voter selecting the Republican candidate for governor, Mike DeWine, on an electronic ballot. However, the paper record in the video indicated a vote for DeWine's Democratic opponent, Richard Cordray. The individual who shared the video on Facebook alleged that the machine was "rigged." According to Aaron Sellers, a representative for the Franklin County Board of Elections, the machine in question had a paper jam that resulted in a previous voter's paper record being printed. The voter was able to cast her ballot again on a functioning machine. The incident was widely shared on Twitter, particularly by individuals associated with the QAnon conspiracy theory, which supports Trump. | 2 |
The foreign ministry stated that this decision will lead to "better well-being for the people in the area". Mahmud made these remarks during the opening of the 'Water Innovation Summit 2015' in New Delhi, which was organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries and the Water Institute of India. He emphasized the importance of water in terms of security and sustainable human development. Both Bangladesh and India experience an abundance of water during the monsoon season and a scarcity during the dry season. Mahmud suggested that if a comprehensive approach is taken to manage water resources in the entire basin, the region could fully utilize its water potential. The water resources minister emphasized the importance of building a barrage in the Ganges within Bangladesh's territory to ensure a steady supply of fresh water in the southern regions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. He also urged for the prompt signing of the Teesta water-sharing agreement, stating that resolving water issues would contribute to development and stability in the area. Additionally, he met with Indian counterpart Uma Bharati, and discussed India's plans for interlinking rivers, assuring that projects would not have negative effects on Bangladesh. Bharati accepted an invitation to attend the next JRC meeting in Bangladesh. | 2 |
Zimbabwean police have arrested opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai for the second time this week, preventing him from attending a campaign rally for the upcoming presidential run-off vote on June 27. The Movement for Democratic Change, the opposition party, believes that President Robert Mugabe is trying to hinder Tsvangirai's campaign to maintain his long-standing grip on power. Tsvangirai was later released from police custody in Esigodini, located 40 km southeast of Bulawayo, after being stopped by armed police at a roadblock. The party condemned Tsvangirai's detention as a desperate and disgraceful act by the regime, urging authorities to allow Tsvangirai to fulfill his role as mandated by the people of Zimbabwe in restoring their dignity. The police have prohibited several planned campaign rallies due to concerns about the safety of party leaders. The party has stated their intention to take legal action to prevent police interference in their campaign. Police spokesperson Wayne Bvudzijena attributed the incident to the opposition, claiming that the MDC convoy had crashed through a roadblock. Tsvangirai, who won the election against Mugabe but did not secure enough votes to avoid a second ballot, was detained and questioned by police for eight hours. Additionally, police detained five U.S. and two British diplomats for several hours after they visited victims of political violence. Zimbabwe has also prevented relief agencies from operating in the country, leading to economic hardship. U.S. Ambassador James McGee, along with others who were detained on Thursday, has accused the government of using food aid as a means to gain votes. In a video conference call from Harare, McGee described the regime as desperate and willing to do anything to remain in power. The United States and Britain have blamed Mugabe's government for the detention of diplomats, stating that Zimbabwe is attempting to intimidate Tsvangirai's supporters. France's foreign ministry expressed deep concern about the atmosphere of intimidation and violence in Zimbabwe. According to the opposition, 65 people have died in violence since the first round of voting. Mugabe is pointing fingers at his opponents for the unrest. In response, Mugabe's government stopped the operations of all international aid organizations in the country, accusing some of them of supporting the opposition. Britain and the European Union have called for the ban to be lifted. U.N. officials stated that the suspension of aid would lead to increased suffering, while CARE expressed concern for the millions of aid-dependent Zimbabweans at risk. EU aid commissioner Louis Michel expressed deep distress over the uncertain future facing hundreds of thousands of people who rely on aid for survival. Zimbabwe, once prosperous, has experienced a decline in food production since 2000 when Mugabe's government seized white-owned farms as part of a land redistribution program. Many of these farms are now owned by Mugabe loyalists, leading to chronic food shortages and reliance on handouts and imports for food. Mugabe attributes the decline of Zimbabwe's once thriving economy to sanctions imposed by Western nations, while the opposition argues that he is responsible for the country's deterioration due to mismanagement. The Southern African Development Community, which consists of 14 nations including Zimbabwe, is deploying observers to oversee the upcoming run-off election. | 2 |
Bennett had a meeting later in the day with King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa, the ruler of Bahrain, as well as Vice Admiral Brad Cooper of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet, Bahraini ministers, and members of Bahrain’s Jewish community. During the meeting with the crown prince, Bennett expressed his desire to move towards a more personal and meaningful peace between their countries. The visit also included the announcement of a partnership between Israel and Bahrain in various business sectors. This visit marked the first official visit by an Israeli prime minister to Bahrain and highlighted the strengthening relationships between Israel and several Arab nations in recent years. Israel has made significant diplomatic progress with Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Sudan since 2020. For many years, most Arab countries refused to establish normal relations with Israel until the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was resolved. However, priorities have now shifted for some countries in the region. Bahrain, for example, is more focused on containing Iran and its armed proxies throughout the region, a goal that it shares with Israel. This change in priorities is evident in the warm welcome received by Bennett during his visit to Bahrain, where an Israeli military officer will be hosted for the first time as part of a regional alliance. The main objective of this alliance is to ensure freedom of navigation and international trade in the Persian Gulf, following numerous attacks by Iran and its proxies on ships in the area. Bahrain's invitation to Bennett suggested a growing acceptance of Israel by Saudi Arabia, a key player in the Arab world and a rival of Iran. Saudi officials officially deny plans to normalize relations with Israel, and also deny reports of a secret summit between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Bennett's predecessor. However, Saudi support is important for Bahrain, as evidenced by past assistance from Saudi troops and financial aid. Analysts believe that Bahrain often acts with Saudi approval as a proxy. Abdulkhaleq Abdulla, a political scientist and Gulf politics expert, emphasized the close relationship between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Abdulla mentioned that there is more cooperation between Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf States than many people realize. Prominent Saudis have also made surprising statements regarding Israel and the Palestinians in recent years. For example, in 2018, Prince Mohammed stated that Israelis have a right to their own land, a sentiment that would have been unheard of before. Additionally, Saudi Prince Bandar bin Sultan criticized Palestinian leadership for not adequately serving ordinary Palestinians. Furthermore, Saudi movie theaters are currently showing a film featuring Israeli actress Gal Gadot, who has faced backlash in the Arab world for her support of Israeli military actions in Gaza. Relations are improving between Israel and the two Arab countries it had previously made peace with, Egypt and Jordan. Despite public displays of friendship between leaders, polls show that the general Arab public is not in favor of the increased diplomatic ties with Israel. In Bahrain, protests against the government and Israel were seen on social media. According to international rights watchdogs, Bahrain lacks a free news media and its judges are appointed by the royal family. The Khalifa family, a Sunni Muslim dynasty that has been in power since 1783, governs over a predominantly Shia population that claims to face systemic sectarian discrimination. Bahraini rights activists in exile criticized Bennett's visit, which coincided with the 11th anniversary of the 2011 uprising, as a betrayal of the Palestinian national movement and an endorsement of Israel's policies. Sayed Ahmed Alwadaei, advocacy director at the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy, described the visit as a disrespectful gesture, considering it falls on a significant date in Bahrain's history when its people stood up against authoritarian rule. | 2 |
Greenpeace is calling on European Union and African leaders to take immediate action to prevent the destruction of African forests, which is leading to carbon emissions that are contributing to climate change. Stephan Van Praet, coordinator for the Greenpeace International Africa Forest Campaign, emphasized the importance of political leaders in Lisbon supporting a halt to deforestation in Africa. Trees play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas, and deforestation is responsible for a significant portion of man-made carbon dioxide emissions. Urgent measures need to be taken to address this issue. Greenpeace activists in Lisbon unveiled a banner at Vasco da Gama tower with the message "Save the Climate-Save African forests." Stephan Van Praet stated that Greenpeace would continue their campaign in Lisbon over the weekend. He emphasized the importance of Europe adopting legislation to prevent illegal timber imports to enhance credibility in the fight against climate change and forest destruction. Van Praet also stressed the need for Europe to take responsibility in the international market by starting at home. The EU aims to reduce emissions to 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 to address the consequences of climate change such as heatwaves, disease, rising seas, and droughts. | 2 |
He plans to rejoin the Iran nuclear deal if Iran agrees to comply, extend the nuclear arms treaty with Russia for another five years, and strengthen US commitments to NATO after threats from Trump to withdraw from the alliance. Biden also vows to hold Russia accountable for election interference. He aims to move away from Trump's "America First" approach, which he believes hindered international cooperation in addressing the pandemic, resulting in high death rates in the US. The decline in respect for American leadership is due to Trump's alignment with autocrats and disregard for democratic allies. While it may be simple to pledge a return to the internationalist approach of the post-World War II era, actually implementing this after years of global disengagement and during a pandemic is challenging. The world has changed significantly since Biden was last in the White House, with power vacuums being filled by China, democracies retreating, and new rivalries emerging in the race for a vaccine. While foreign allies may find Biden comforting and reassuring, they still have doubts about fully trusting the United States not to revert to isolationist policies. Biden's top advisers are outlining a plan to reverse Trump's efforts to withdraw the US from global engagement, which they refer to as the Great Undoing. Antony J. Blinken, Biden's national security adviser, emphasized the importance of the US taking a leadership role in global affairs, as leaving a power vacuum can lead to negative consequences. Although some may wish to turn back time to before Trump's presidency, Blinken acknowledges that this is not possible. Biden is expected to proceed cautiously, with symbolic gestures such as rejoining the Paris climate accord, but rebuilding US power will be a slow process. Richard N. Haass, president of the Council on Foreign Relations and a close friend of Biden, stated that Biden will have a lot of freedom but also limitations when he takes office. He mentioned that Biden can reverse Trump's executive orders with his own, but any actions that require Senate approval or military force without clear provocation will be difficult. Biden, who is 77 years old, believes in a return to a more traditional approach to foreign policy and has expressed a desire to move away from the "America First" mentality. Despite not focusing much on foreign policy during his campaign, Biden has not been questioned on how his views have evolved over time. He has not specified what consequences he envisions for President Putin of Russia, but one of his advisors, Jake Sullivan, has provided some insight. Just before the election, he stated that Biden was prepared to impose severe consequences on those responsible for Russian interference, such as financial sanctions, asset freezes, counter cyberattacks, and potentially revealing corruption by foreign leaders. This shift would represent a tougher stance on US policy, reminiscent of actions considered by the Obama administration during Biden's time as vice president but never executed. The change in approach towards Russia indicates the detailed planning undertaken by Biden's transition team, which was assembled last spring, to undo Trump's foreign policy decisions. The team includes a mix of formal and informal advisers, mostly former midlevel and senior officials from the Obama administration who are expected to return. The team has set timelines for starting negotiations, reentering treaties, and holding early summit meetings. Officials say that the most striking example will be in reconsidering the strategy towards China, with notable differences from the approach taken by the Obama administration. Biden and his national security team during the Obama administration underestimated China's rapid crackdown on dissent and its challenge to US influence through 5G networks and the Belt and Road Initiative. Diplomatic and commercial engagement with China has not led to the expected political and economic openness, according to Kurt Campbell and Ely Ratner. US military power and regional balancing have not been able to prevent Beijing from attempting to replace key aspects of the US-led system. China is just one area where Biden's long-standing beliefs will encounter new realities. Despite his likable personality, Biden has often been criticized for his foreign policy decisions, including his stance on Afghanistan. In 2009, he advocated for a minimal force with a focus on counterterrorism, but was overruled by Obama. This initial setback has now become a political advantage for Biden, as Trump's attempt to paint him as a supporter of "endless wars" did not resonate with voters. Biden, as described by Sullivan, aims to transition U.S. presence in Afghanistan to focus on counterterrorism efforts to prevent al-Qaida or Islamic State forces from establishing a base there in order to protect the United States. This approach would be specific and targeted, reflecting Biden's stance in 2009 and his current position. Unlike past Democrats who were seen as appeasing Russia during the Cold War, Biden is the first Democrat to take a different approach. He does not downplay the Russian threat like Obama did during his debates with Romney in 2012, nor does he seek to reset relations with Russia like Clinton did in her early days as secretary of state. Biden has emphasized his understanding of the Russian interference in the 2016 election, stating that Putin does not want him to become president. Following revelations of Russian interference and Trump's reluctance to confront Putin, Democrats have shifted to being more critical of Russia. During most of the campaign, Biden criticized Trump for getting too close to dictators and talked about how he was willing to take action against Russia if elected. As president, Biden will need to address Russia's large arsenal of nuclear weapons, including 1,550 deployed nuclear weapons and numerous tactical nuclear weapons that have been deployed even before Trump withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. How will Biden stop the negative trend? According to Blinken, he would first extend the New START treaty for five years, as it expires just 16 days after the inauguration. After that, he would aim to expand the treaty to cover other types of weapons and possibly involve more countries. He planned to capitalize on Putin's weakening economy. Blinken stated that they would discourage and penalize Putin's interference and aggression, but acknowledged the other side of the coin when dealing with Moscow. He mentioned that Putin is seeking to reduce Russia's reliance on China, putting him in an uncomfortable position. This suggests that the Biden administration may exploit the distrust between Moscow and Beijing to divide the two superpowers, similar to how President Nixon did with China decades ago. In a meeting in 2010, Biden expressed frustration as news leaked about a joint US-Israel cyberattack, called "Stuxnet," aimed at Iran's nuclear program. "It has to be the Israelis who went too far," is believed to have started a new era of conflict, with Biden playing a significant role. He supported the covert operation as a means to hinder Iran's nuclear development without escalating tensions in the Middle East. Biden later credited the covert program for bringing Iran to the negotiating table, leading to the Iran nuclear deal five years later. Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of Britain, addressed NATO leaders at The Grove hotel and resort in Watford, England on December 4, 2019. President-elect Joe Biden is looking to strengthen America's commitments to NATO. As for Iran, Biden's first move is to restore the previous agreement if Iran's supreme leader is willing to adhere to the production limits set in 2015. However, Iran has suggested there will be consequences for Trump's actions, and key restrictions on Iran are set to be lifted soon. The expiration of the arms embargo in October allows for Russia and China to resume sales to Iran. There will be a new Iranian president soon, and it is uncertain how this will affect potential talks. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke at a NATO meeting in Watford in December 2019. President-elect Joe Biden wants to strengthen American commitments to NATO. Biden's team believes that rejoining the deal that Trump left puts pressure on Tehran. Secretary of State Blinken stated that if Iran does not comply, the US will have more support from allies who blame Trump for exiting the agreement. In 2012, Biden welcomed Xi to Washington and praised him as a reformer, believing in China's peaceful rise. However, by this year, Biden had changed his view of Xi, calling him a "thug." During the campaign, Biden criticized Trump for his handling of the trade war with China, pointing out that American taxpayers were ultimately paying for the tariffs through government subsidies. Biden has not discussed his plans for countering China's actions much, but he will have to address new challenges such as managing technological advances by companies like Huawei and TikTok. He has hinted that he may continue some of Trump's policies with more diplomatic efforts to gain support from allies. Biden is concerned about the potential misuse of information collected by the Chinese and has promised to delve deeply into the issue if elected president. "I will bring in cyberexperts to help me find the best solution to address the issue," Biden stated. Adding to the complexity of the situation is Biden's commitment to prioritize values in foreign policy, especially in regards to the US-China relationship. This stance is reminiscent of Bill Clinton's promise in the 1992 election to confront the Chinese government. This likely entails holding China accountable for Xi's crackdown on dissent, which includes the implementation of national security laws resulting in detention camps in Xinjiang, the arrest of dissidents in Hong Kong, and the expulsion of foreign journalists who provided independent reporting in China. ©2020 The New York Times Company. | 2 |
The destroyed houses of Devi and her neighbors in Haat village are now buried in debris from a nearby hydroelectric power plant, leaving behind a scene of devastation. Despite the presence of an important Hindu temple in the area, the village has been heavily impacted by the construction. Devi expressed her dismay at the loss of her home and questioned the type of development that displaces poor families to provide electricity to others. Over 240 households in the village have suffered the same fate due to the construction of the 444-megawatt hydropower project on the Alaknanda river. The World Bank-funded power plant is just one of many hydroelectric projects in India's Himalayan states, aimed at reducing the country's carbon emissions. The government believes that hydropower, along with solar and wind energy, is necessary to achieve India's goal of obtaining half of its energy from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. Proponents of hydropower argue that it produces large amounts of clean electricity and can be quickly scaled up when solar and wind power projects are unable to meet demand. However, critics, including environmental groups and affected communities, argue that the significant environmental and social costs of hydroelectric projects are difficult to justify. One local resident, Devi, recalled how government officials forced people to sell their land for a hydroelectric project, and those who refused were forcibly removed and had their homes demolished. Residents of Haat who had previously agreed to sell their homes were given a "nominal" compensation of 1 million Indian rupees ($12,887) each, according to homemaker Devi, who now resides in a nearby village with her family. Sandeep Gupta, assistant general manager of the THDC project, stated that the Haat residents had willingly resettled themselves and were fairly compensated. He also mentioned that government agencies were monitoring the project for any environmental harm, with no adverse impact reported so far. The International Energy Agency highlighted the untapped potential of hydropower in a June 2021 report, calling it "the forgotten giant of clean electricity" and recommending countries to include it in their energy mix to achieve net-zero emissions. India currently has 46 gigawatts of installed hydropower capacity, which is only a third of its potential capacity according to government data. In 2019, the government officially recognized hydroelectric projects over 25 MW as a renewable energy source to increase capacity. It became mandatory for power companies to use hydro for a portion of their supply, whereas previously only smaller plants were considered renewable. Arun Kumar, a professor at the Indian Institute of Technology-Roorkee specializing in hydropower and renewable energy, emphasized that the growth of India's hydropower sector goes beyond electricity generation. He highlighted the benefits of hydroelectric dams in providing a reliable water supply for various purposes and mentioned the potential of large projects to stimulate tourism, create jobs, and improve infrastructure in surrounding communities, ultimately enhancing the quality of life in underdeveloped areas. Kumar also serves on the board of the International Hydropower Association based in London. According to Himanshu Thakkar, coordinator of the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People, it is not economically viable for India to build more hydropower plants when cheaper clean energy options like solar and wind projects are available. Thakkar stated that the cost of installing 1 MW of hydroelectric capacity in India is more than 100 million rupees, which is double the cost of solar or wind-based capacity. He believes that corruption and inadequate regulation are the main reasons why Indian authorities are prioritizing hydropower. Thakkar also expressed concerns about the lack of credible regulatory oversight, which could lead to inflated costs. Additionally, some environmentalists argue that hydropower, despite its reputation as a green energy source, may do more harm than good. According to environmental experts, hydro projects can have detrimental effects on nearby communities by clearing forests, diverting rivers, impeding groundwater recharge, and causing significant earth movement. S.P. Sati, an environmental science professor at the College of Forestry-Ranichauri in Uttarakhand, pointed to the 2013 floods in the state that resulted in approximately 6,000 deaths. A committee appointed by India's Supreme Court found that hydroelectric projects worsened the flood damage by causing rushing water to carry large amounts of debris downstream, leading to the burial of low-lying communities. Additionally, the committee highlighted the potential for landslides or slope failure due to excavation and explosive use during project construction. Sati expressed concerns about the potential negative impact of hydropower on the environment and local communities, emphasizing the importance of considering factors such as terrain sensitivity. Haat village head Rajendra Prasad Hatwal stated that residents would continue to protest and seek compensation from hydropower plant developers for the displacement of families. He also questioned India's heavy reliance on hydropower, citing examples of disruptions in other countries due to climate change-driven droughts. Additionally, he criticized the clearing of thousands of trees for the power plant, noting the contradiction with efforts to save forests to combat climate change. Hatwal found the situation confusing and frustrating. | 2 |
In the midterm elections, Democrats gained control of the US House of Representatives from Trump's Republicans, which is seen as a judgment on his presidency so far. This outcome allows the opposition party to thwart Trump's domestic plans and increase investigations into his business affairs and possible connections between his campaign and Russia. However, Trump's authority in foreign policy is still strong, and House Democrats may not be able to significantly impact his major priorities such as the trade dispute with China and his stance on Iran. Norbert Roettgen, head of the foreign affairs committee in the German Bundestag, noted that the president's executive powers, particularly in foreign policy, remain unchanged. Peter Trubowitz, director of the United States Centre at the London School of Economics, believes that Trump may become more aggressive and polarizing if he is defeated in the House. Trubowitz predicts that Trump may focus more on foreign policy issues such as China, Iran, and the Mexican border. He also suggests that Trump's incentive structure has changed and he may dedicate more time to foreign policy leading up to the 2020 elections. Trump's first two years in office caused concern among traditional US allies due to his actions such as withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal and the Paris climate accord, criticizing trade surpluses and defense spending of allies like Germany, and building relationships with authoritarian leaders in North Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Russia. While not openly stated by many European politicians, there was a desire in Berlin, Paris, and Brussels for American voters to show disapproval of Trump's Republicans in the midterms, in the hopes of leading to a change in direction and increasing the chances of a regime change in 2020. Some European politicians viewed the Democratic gains in the House as evidence of a shift. Frans Timmermans, the first vice president of the European Commission, praised Americans for choosing "hope over fear, civility over rudeness, inclusion over racism." However, the results did not meet the expectations of a "blue wave" that some had anticipated, as Republicans were able to strengthen their majority in the Senate, which traditionally has a significant role in foreign policy. In multiple prominent House, Senate, and governor races in states like Iowa, Florida, Georgia, and Texas, Republicans closely aligned with Trump emerged victorious, leading to a normalization of Trump's influence and confirming his successful takeover of the Republican Party. Democrats may be able to constrain Trump's actions, particularly regarding Saudi Arabia and the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, as well as by focusing on Russia's alleged election meddling, limiting Trump's ability to cooperate with President Vladimir Putin. Additionally, Democrats in the House could advocate for tougher sanctions against Moscow, potentially targeting European companies involved in the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed confidence that there are no positive signs for improving Russian-American relations in the near future. Despite Congress not needing to approve trade decisions, many European diplomats and analysts predict that President Trump will continue to engage in conflict with China and may escalate it due to domestic issues. Trump's troubles at home also make it more likely that he will follow through on threats to challenge Europe on trade, such as imposing tariffs on car imports from Germany. A visit to the White House by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in June temporarily eased tensions. However, in the previous month, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross criticized the EU for delaying advancements in trade and mentioned that Trump's tolerance has its limits. Jeremy Shapiro, a former State Department official and current research director at the European Council on Foreign Relations, stated that Trump strongly feels that the EU, particularly Germany, is exploiting the US. Shapiro also anticipates that if Trump faces difficulties domestically, he will seek out new conflicts. | 2 |
Scattered rain provided some relief to parts of the hot US Midwest on Wednesday, but most of the area is still facing the worst drought in 50 years. The US Agriculture Department predicts that food prices will increase more than other consumer costs through 2013 due to the drought destroying crops and reducing supplies. According to USDA economist Richard Volpe, the drought will significantly impact food prices next year, with the effects already being seen in corn and soybean prices. The USDA expects food prices to rise between 2.5 percent and 3.5 percent in 2012 and an additional 3-4 percent in 2013. The USDA predicts that food prices will increase at a faster rate than overall U.S. inflation, which is a change from the usual trend. Inflation is expected to be 2 percent this year and 1.9 percent in 2013. Food prices rose by 3.7 percent last year, but only by 0.8 percent in 2010. The USDA also announced that an additional 76 counties have been added to the list of areas eligible for disaster aid, bringing the total to 1,369 counties in 31 states. The agency noted that two-thirds of the United States is currently experiencing mild or extreme drought conditions. Forecasters predict that the northern Corn Belt, spanning from eastern Nebraska to northern Illinois, will experience a second day of scattered rain following weeks of hot, dry weather. However, the southern Midwest, including Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, is expected to continue facing hot and dry conditions. According to National Weather Service meteorologist Jim Keeney, areas from Kansas to Ohio require over 10 inches of rain to alleviate the drought, and the upcoming front is only projected to bring 1/2 to 1 inch of rain, falling short of being a drought buster. The central and southern Midwest experienced temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Wednesday, with St Louis reaching 101 F. According to meteorologist Andy Karst from World Weather Inc., the drought pattern remains unchanged, with thunderstorms moving around but no significant rainfall expected until August 8. As a result, grain markets at the Chicago Board of Trade saw an increase in prices after a decrease from last week's record highs. Corn for September delivery closed 4-1/2 cents higher at $7.94-1/2 a bushel, compared to the previous record of $8.28-3/4. August soybeans closed 45 cents higher at $16.94-1/4, compared to last week's record of $17.77-3/4. September wheat also saw an increase, rising 24-1/2 cents to $9.03-1/4, still below last week's 4-year high at $9.47-1/4. Market prices worldwide are causing concerns about potential increases in local food costs due to expensive imports, limited food aid for countries like China and Egypt, and potential food riots. The United States, a major exporter of corn, soybeans, and wheat, is facing significant losses in its corn crop this year, which has various uses from ethanol fuels to livestock feed. Soybeans, planted later than corn, are also at risk due to the drought, but there is hope that forecasted rain could help mitigate the situation. Recent polls suggest that US corn yields may reach a 10-year low, leading to the lowest harvest in six years. Extensive damage is evident in the declining weekly crop reports from Corn Belt states, with losses comparable to those seen during the 1988 drought, according to Bryce Knorr, a senior editor at Farm Futures Magazine. The weather has already reduced the corn crop by almost 4 billion bushels, leading to the need to ration demand. In Putnam County, Indiana, crop scouts did not even bother inspecting corn fields this week as it was clear that farmers would plow crops under rather than attempt to harvest anything. Meanwhile, scouts in central Illinois found that some corn fields were in better condition than expected, benefiting from early planting and pollination after a warm winter and spring. Tom Womack from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture mentioned that although recent rains had improved soybean prospects, the corn crop had already been irreparably damaged. Even with more rainfall, the lost corn crop cannot be recovered. Ohio Governor John Kasich authorized farmers to harvest hay for their livestock from grass along highways near their properties. Fire risks were increasing in parts of the Plains, with firefighters and the National Guard fighting wildfires in three north-central Nebraska counties that have burned over 60,000 acres in the past week. Helicopters dropped water on wildfires sparked by lightning in the Niobrara River Valley on Wednesday. Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman stated that progress is being made, but ongoing support is necessary. In Missouri, a very dry state, the highway patrol warned of dangerous driving conditions due to smoke from grass and brush fires, some of which were caused by discarded cigarettes. In the Midwest, water use restrictions were implemented in cities and towns to conserve water for gardens and lawns, while efforts were made to save stressed trees with drip bags. Reservoir and river levels are currently low and are being closely monitored, leading to restrictions on barge movements along the Mississippi River and recreational boating. The U.S. drought is believed to be caused by the El Nino phenomenon in the western Pacific Ocean, which warms sea temperatures and can block moisture from reaching the U.S. Midwest breadbasket. Some scientists are warning that this year's drought, the worst since 1956, may be connected to climate factors that could have even more severe consequences in the future. The Midwest has experienced more dangerously hot summer days over the past 60 years, and as the climate continues to warm, the region will face more potentially deadly weather events, according to a report from the Union of Concerned Scientists. The report examined weather patterns in several cities including Chicago, Cincinnati, Detroit, Minneapolis, St. Louis, Peoria (Illinois), and Toledo (Ohio). It noted that there has been a rise in the number of hot and humid days in the Midwest since the 1940s and 1950s, with hot and dry days becoming even hotter. It is now harder to find respite from the heat as there are fewer cool and dry days during the summer and nighttime temperatures have increased. Steve Frenkel, director of UCS's Midwest office, highlighted that high nighttime temperatures pose a greater risk of heat-related illnesses and deaths, especially for those without air conditioning. The report stated that in July 1995, over 700 deaths in Chicago were linked to a heat wave. It also projected that as summer temperatures become more extreme, the number of annual deaths in Chicago will increase from 143 in the years 2020-2029 to 300 in the years 2090-2099. | 2 |
French-American Duflo has become only the second woman to win the economics prize in its 50-year history, and at 46, she is also the youngest recipient. She shared the award with Indian-born American Banerjee and Kremer from the United States. The Academy praised the trio for their work in addressing poverty by breaking it down into smaller, more precise questions in fields like education and healthcare, which makes it easier to tackle. The Academy highlighted the impact of their research, such as helping over five million Indian children through remedial tutoring programs and introducing heavy subsidies for preventive healthcare in various countries. The economics prize, worth 9 million Swedish crowns ($915,300), was added later to the five awards established in Alfred Nobel's will. It was first awarded in 1969 by the Swedish central bank. The winners for medicine, physics, chemistry, literature, and peace were announced last week, with the Nobel Economics Prize being the last to be revealed. In 2018, the prize was jointly awarded to U.S. economists William Nordhaus and Paul Romer, who are known for adapting the western economic growth model to focus on environmental issues and technology benefits. Nordhaus' recognition has sparked controversy, as critics argue that his model underestimates the risks of climate change. | 2 |
Russian President Vladimir Putin has introduced a government filled with loyalists, strengthening his control over the economy and national security following protests and limiting Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev's ability to implement market reforms. Putin, aged 59, chose to maintain continuity by keeping his ally Igor Shuvalov as first deputy prime minister responsible for economic policy, while Igor Sechin will continue as his energy chief in a non-governmental role. Despite announcing several new names for cabinet positions, Putin mostly retained familiar figures, showing little desire for policy changes at the beginning of his six-year presidential term. The former KGB agent solidified his influence over key ministries by appointing Moscow police chief Vladimir Kolokoltsev as interior minister, demonstrating trust in a person who has used force against protesters calling for Putin's resignation. Putin indicated continuity in international and military matters by keeping Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov in their positions, as well as Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin, who oversees the defense industry and is an ally of Putin. Putin addressed the new cabinet in a Kremlin meeting broadcast live on state television, emphasizing the challenges ahead due to the uncertain global economy. The government's effectiveness will be tested by how quickly it can implement a privatization program and reduce the economy's reliance on oil and gas exports. Amid protests over alleged electoral fraud and frustrations with his long rule, Putin appointed Kolokoltsev to the Interior Ministry as a sign that he is not willing to yield to demands for increased political freedom. Opposition leader Boris Nemtsov told Reuters that there is a man who disrupts peaceful meetings with the help of cudgels, and he believes this behavior is in line with the ideology of modern Putinism. Despite Prime Minister Medvedev's intentions to implement pro-growth policies and privatization efforts, concerns have been raised about factional divisions between the ruling 'tandem' in Russia due to the secretive process of forming a new government. Alfa Bank, based in Moscow, suggested that the new cabinet is likely to prioritize budget stability over a pro-market agenda. The newly appointed cabinet is seen as an attempt to balance power between the president and prime minister, which could hinder the implementation of a cohesive economic agenda. The cabinet includes some new members who were part of a group of young market liberals in the Kremlin during Medvedev's presidency, where promised reforms were not fully carried out. Arkady Dvorkovich, one of the new deputy premiers, will now oversee energy and industry policy, despite having little influence in these areas while working as Medvedev's economic adviser. The energy minister position went to Alexander Novak, a former deputy finance minister, indicating that Sechin will still control Russia's oil and gas sector. Another Medvedev aide, Mikhail Abyzov, was appointed as coordinator of an "open government" forum, which has yet to produce significant results. Putin, who relinquished his position as president in 2008 due to constitutional limitations, increased his control over economic policy by appointing individuals who support his belief in state-led development to key positions in finance and economy. Anton Siluanov, a career bureaucrat, remains as finance minister, while a pro-Putin economist, Andrei Belousov, has been promoted to economy minister. Former Finance Minister Alexei Kudrin, who was removed from government in a power struggle with Medvedev, criticized the new government, stating that it lacks the ability to address the challenges facing Russia. He is still close to Putin and has been suggested as a potential future prime minister. According to analysts, the cabinet is likely to lack independence and decision-making power may shift to the presidential administration under Putin's leadership until 2024. The recent economic growth in Russia was largely due to pre-election spending, but structural reforms are not a priority. Germany Gref, head of Sberbank, warned that Russia may face economic challenges in the future due to its reliance on oil. The government must ensure a positive environment for investment and growth, as seen with delays in privatizing Gref's bank due to poor market conditions. Shuvalov, who has supported privatization in the past, is viewed as someone who can navigate power struggles between market liberals and those with security service backgrounds. The decision to proceed and how quickly it happens will be determined by the price of oil. | 2 |
The noise of power tools fills the air as a group of workers hurries to ensure that Europe's largest city-center shopping mall opens on schedule. However, marketing executives are noting a shift in consumer behavior, with many now rejecting ostentatious spending due to the financial crisis. The $3 billion Westfield center in West London is set to open with a focus on luxury, featuring stores like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Tiffany, and Gucci. Despite this, Managing Director Michael Gutman emphasizes that the center also offers mass-market options. Retailers are now opting for marketing material that portrays shopping as a relaxing activity shared with loved ones, rather than emphasizing luxury. With the current economic conditions making credit more difficult to obtain, mortgage costs increasing, and unemployment on the rise in the United States, Europe, and Japan, clever advertising alone may not be enough to convince those who still have the means to spend their money. According to Rory Sutherland, vice-chairman at advertising agency Ogilvy, during tough times, it may be seen as distasteful or unfashionable to indulge in extravagant spending. Sutherland believes there will be a shift towards a more minimalist lifestyle, similar to the modest habits of Lutherans and Swedes. Even those in the City of London financial district, like broker Scott David, who can still afford luxury items are showing hesitance towards conspicuous consumption, opting for a more modest approach. For example, David mentioned that individuals are now more reluctant to show off their wealth by driving a brand-new Porsche to meetings. "It would be considered inappropriate," he stated. "You don't want to come across as flaunting your wealth." Sales of luxury goods are projected to decrease globally by 1 percent in the fourth quarter and could drop by as much as 7 percent next year, according to a recent study by consulting firm Bain and Co. In September, U.S. sales of Porsche cars decreased by 58 percent compared to September 2007, while overall car sales dropped by 22 percent, as reported by Autodata. Andy Lear, head of planning at the London office of French advertising agency Publicis, mentioned that the effects of the financial crisis were only speeding up a trend that was already in place. He stated that individuals had been searching for something deeper than simply pursuing money and purchasing flashy items. Some in the financial sector, who had previously lived a lavish lifestyle, are now beginning to reconsider their constant quest for material wealth. Investment banker Patrick, who preferred not to disclose his last name, mentioned that his work schedule had shifted in the past few months. "I am leaving the office earlier and arriving later. Last week, I dropped off my son at school before heading to work - something I had never done before," he explained, noting that some of his colleagues were also making similar changes. Patrick explained that the reason he was considering a career change was due to the tough financial situation at his current job, as well as a shift in his priorities away from working long hours. He mentioned that he is now looking to contribute to society by working with a charity that helps those in need with debt counseling. Meanwhile, Henrietta Creighton, a managing director at Lifestyle Boutique, noted that although their business had slowed down compared to the previous year, clients were still investing in family celebrations. According to Brian Goldner, CEO of Hasbro, family board games like Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, and Monopoly were predicted to be popular Christmas gifts due to families opting out of expensive vacations. Lord Richard Harries, a former Anglican bishop and member of Britain's parliament, suggested that the credit crisis may lead individuals in secular societies like Britain towards religion. He believes that society may be transitioning into a period of increased focus on family, altruism, and spirituality. Nick Wills-Johnson, a research fellow at Curtin University Business School, noted that periods of economic downturn often coincide with greater emphasis on family and spirituality. The extravagant 1980s, exemplified by movies like "Wall Street," were followed by a global recession and what was referred to as the "Caring '90s," influenced by George Bush Senior's pledge to create a more compassionate nation. David Fowler from Cambridge University, author of "Youth Culture in Modern Britain, 1920-1970," stated that downturns can also increase support for anti-materialist movements, particularly among young people. He believes that these movements thrive during times of financial hardship because a recession highlights the shallowness of consumer-oriented society. | 2 |
Many individuals in the United States are facing a multitude of challenges such as illness, economic instability, climate change, grief, racial inequalities, inflation, supply chain issues, and the repercussions of Russia's war with Ukraine, according to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association. Experts suggest that the arrival of spring can be a good opportunity to evaluate our mental well-being and rediscover activities that bring us happiness and purpose, providing our minds with a break when needed. This season is an ideal time for individuals to reflect on their current situation and assess where they stand. Paul Napper, a psychology consultant to business leaders and co-author of "The Power of Agency: The 7 Principles to Conquer Obstacles, Make Effective Decisions and Create a Life on Your Own Terms," questioned his own experiences. He believes that creating a more focused mind begins with making decisions about daily time management. When these decisions align with personal values, interests, and passions, it is known as personal agency. Napper emphasizes that individuals always have choices, even if they are not ideal. By evaluating options, individuals can better adapt to their circumstances. As we transition into a new season, here are five ways to clear your mind. “Being a human in today’s world can be very stressful,” stated Nkechi Njaka, a meditation guide in San Francisco with a background in neuroscience. She believes that stress can be harmful to the body and that practicing mindfulness meditation can help alleviate it. Mindfulness meditation is a technique that encourages individuals to bring their focus back to the present moment when their minds wander, ultimately reducing daily stress. Njaka suggests that when people feel overwhelmed or anxious, they are often dwelling on past or future events. To center oneself in the present, she recommends starting by tuning into physical sensations, such as feeling the ground beneath you. The text suggests that it is common for the mind to wander, but recommends gently refocusing on breathing and staying present. Approaching mindfulness practice with compassion, curiosity, openness, and forgiveness increases the likelihood of trying it again. Utilizing transitional moments in the day, such as waking up or changing locations, can help establish a routine. Research has shown that using the bullet journal method to jot down thoughts can enhance well-being. In recent years, a popular method created by digital designer Ryder Carroll and outlined in his bestselling book, "The Bullet Journal Method: Track the Past, Order the Present, Design the Future," has gained popularity. The Bullet Journal is not just an organisational system, but also a mindfulness exercise that requires you to regularly assess how you are spending your time and energy to determine if it is worthwhile. Carroll believes that being productive on the wrong things is not beneficial. Initially using journaling to help him stay focused and succeed in his career due to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Carroll began to evaluate how tasks made him feel. He discovered a pattern where activities that gave him purpose and pride involved helping others and performing acts of service. He said that if you are unsure of what you want, you will never be content with what you have. In today's world, we are bombarded with an overwhelming amount of information from various sources such as news alerts, social media, and email newsletters, which can lead to feelings of anxiety, anger, or helplessness. Computer science professor Cal Newport suggests simplifying your news consumption by choosing just one or two reliable sources and setting aside a specific time each day to read them. For example, you can listen to a news podcast during your commute or read a newspaper at breakfast. Newport, who is 39 and does not use social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok, also recommends taking a 30-day break from optional technologies in your life. He wrote in his book about the experience of 1,600 individuals who attempted a task. Those who completed the entire 30 days were described as enthusiastic and determined to make the most of their time. Instead of mindlessly using social media, consider alternative activities such as reading, going for a walk, or simply relaxing and listening to music. Allocate time for those activities. Organize your physical space by decluttering. The pandemic, particularly during lockdown, prompted many individuals to clear out unnecessary items from their homes, a trend labeled by The Washington Post as the "great decluttering." If you haven't addressed your clutter yet, now is a good opportunity to do so. According to Catherine Roster, a professor at the University of New Mexico's Anderson School of Management, messy spaces can hinder clear thinking and have a negative impact on various aspects of a person's life, including emotions and productivity. While hiring a professional organizer may not be feasible for everyone, Roster recommends enlisting the help of a friend who is also decluttering. Working together can provide support and guidance in making decisions about what to keep and staying on track. Listening to music while sorting and organising can also serve as a source of motivation, according to Barbara Greenberg, a clinical psychologist in Connecticut. She has observed that many of her patients are feeling emotionally cluttered due to information overload and either social isolation or unmet social and emotional needs. Greenberg advises reconnecting with loved ones who may have been lost touch with during the pandemic, as their support and positive influence can help in times of need. If it has been a long time since you last contacted someone, it may feel uncomfortable at first to reconnect. However, Greenberg suggests being honest in your approach. For instance, you could say: "We lost touch during the pandemic, but now things are settling down and I would really like to see you. Not seeing you has been one of the things I have missed." This could potentially start a "chain of positivity" where the person you reach out to feels motivated to do the same with others. According to Greenberg, everyone appreciates receiving such a call. Copyright 2022 by The New York Times Company. | 2 |
Critics on both the right and left have taken issue with Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's decisions regarding his coalition government. On the right, critics believe that including an Arab party in the coalition has weakened Israel's ability to police its Arab minority and respond effectively to recent attacks carried out by Arab citizens. Meanwhile, critics on the left have accused Bennett of making minor concessions to Palestinians while ruling out peace talks and the formation of a Palestinian state, which they argue has only increased Palestinian despair and led to violence. Bennett's coalition, made up of a diverse group of parties including right-wingers, centrists, leftists, and an Arab Islamist party, has faced challenges in responding to the recent violence due to their differing ideologies. Despite their efforts to work together, the recent attacks have highlighted the deep divisions within the coalition. The attacks have also served as a stark reminder that the Palestinian issue remains unresolved and a potential source of conflict, despite the desire of many Israelis for peace and stability. Bennett, similar to Netanyahu before him, has chosen to put the issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on hold, viewing it as a problem to manage rather than solve. The most recent peace talks came to a halt in 2014. The Palestinian leadership, split between Gaza and the West Bank, has been unable to establish a unified position for negotiations, while key Israeli figures, including Bennett, openly oppose a Palestinian state. However, the recent increase in violence has led some Israeli experts to acknowledge the inherent instability of the current situation, although this realization has only reinforced existing opinions on the conflict. Ofer Zalzberg, director of the Middle East Program at the Herbert C Kelman Institute in Jerusalem, described the ongoing debate as lacking new perspectives. He noted that people tend to stick to their positions based on where they are situated rather than changing their views based on events. The recent shooting in Bnei Brak, Israel, by a West Bank Palestinian that resulted in five deaths reinforced the belief among witnesses and survivors that Israel does not have a viable peace partner among the Palestinians and that the establishment of a Palestinian state would increase the risk for Israelis. Despite Bennett also opposing Palestinian sovereignty, he faced backlash for his collaboration with Ra’am and for issuing more work permits to Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. Signs urging residents not to hire Palestinian workers have appeared in the city, with one poster demanding Bennett's resignation. In neighboring cities, one mayor closed construction sites that usually employed Palestinian workers, while another urged contractors not to hire Palestinians. Moshe Waldman, an accountant in Bnei Brak who witnessed part of the attack, expressed the need for severe punishment for the families of terrorists. He suggested destroying their homes and implementing true acts of deterrence, rather than relying on negotiation which he believes is not effective in the current situation. We are facing severe criticism for our policies towards Arab Israelis and Palestinians. Some believe Prime Minister Bennett is being too accommodating, while others argue he is not doing enough. The Israeli government has taken steps such as granting work permits and legal status to Palestinians, providing financial aid to the Palestinian Authority, allowing visits to Israeli jails, and engaging more openly with Palestinian leaders. However, critics claim that these efforts do not address the underlying issues of Palestinian life under occupation, with the Israeli army still conducting raids and a two-tier justice system in place in the West Bank. The Palestinian hope for statehood is still far off, with no political progress in sight. Israeli analyst Mairav Zonszein notes a sense of hopelessness among Palestinians and a lack of consequences for Israelis maintaining the status quo. This could lead to a rise in violence. Israeli Prime Minister Bennett faces the challenge of improving security and satisfying his right-wing supporters without worsening tensions or alienating Arab lawmakers. The Israeli military has increased presence in the West Bank and Gaza border, while police focus on counterterrorism efforts. Bennett has also urged Israeli civilians to carry licensed firearms, a move that has caused concern among many Arab citizens of Israel, according to Bashaer Fahoum-Jayoussi, co-chair of the board of the Abraham Initiatives, a group that advocates for equality between Arabs and Jews. Fahoum-Jayoussi described this as alarming and a call for citizens to militarize, which could exacerbate the recent increase in hate speech against the Arab community in Israel. In an effort to ease tensions, Bennett has praised his Arab coalition partner, Mansour Abbas, leader of the Ra’am party, as a brave and important member of the government. Despite this, the government continues to permit tens of thousands of Palestinians to enter Israel from the West Bank and Gaza daily. There has been no change to the plan allowing retirees from the West Bank to enter Jerusalem during Ramadan, starting this weekend. Bennett's office did not comment, but his ally Micah Goodman, who popularized the concept of "shrinking the conflict," stated that it is too early to assess the government's approach in the West Bank and Israel. Goodman believes that achieving the gradual liberation of Palestinians in the West Bank and their gradual integration within Israel will take years, not months. He also mentioned that fear is the dominant emotional experience for Israelis in the conflict, while humiliation is the main emotion for Palestinians. Reducing the conflict involves decreasing fear and terrorism for Israelis and reducing humiliation and occupation for Palestinians. This process takes time and cannot be evaluated in just nine months of the current government. If the recent wave of violence subsides, it could be seen as a success for the Bennett government. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas criticized an attack in Bnei Brak, which Israeli officials interpreted as a result of increased engagement with him. If the violence diminishes, it could show that cooperation with the PA is beneficial in fighting against Israel's enemies, potentially leading to more empowerment for the PA. However, these incremental steps may not alleviate the occupation but instead provide political cover for its continuation through the growth of settlements and settler violence. She stated that the occupation is still happening and it is actually deteriorating. | 2 |
The government has decided to enhance the capabilities of local governments in addressing climate change issues. This decision was made during a meeting of the climate change trust board at the environment ministry on Thursday. The project will be a collaborative effort between various ministry units and the non-governmental organization Bangladesh Unnayan Parishad (BUP), as stated by environment state minister Hasan Mamud during a briefing with journalists. Additionally, the board has also given initial approval to climate change projects proposed by 25 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) after the project costs were revised. The NGOs will be required to complete their work within the approved budget allocations through further discussions. He stated that if any of the projects exceed their budgets, they will be held accountable by the board. Mahmud also mentioned that an expert organization will assess the work done by government and non-governmental organizations approved by the trustee board. Additionally, the board decided to prioritize projects that will provide immediate benefits to the people and skip others. The meeting was attended by board members such as food minister Abdur Razzak and trustee board chairman Qazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmad. | 2 |
The state of Gujarat in western India is set to have elections in December, which will be a crucial test for the ruling Congress party amidst its current crisis. Election authorities have also announced dates for voting in Himachal Pradesh. This will be the first direct contest between Congress and the opposition BJP since recent political changes, particularly regarding the nuclear deal. The Congress, leading the ruling coalition, is facing opposition from leftist allies over the deal with the US, with threats of withdrawing support if the deal proceeds. If this scenario occurs, the government would become a minority and national elections could take place before the scheduled date in 2009. More than 30 million voters will participate in electing 182 seats in Gujarat through two phases on Dec. 11 and Dec. 16. The state is currently led by Chief Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist BJP, which has won the last three elections. Five years ago, Modi faced accusations of ignoring the violence during Hindu-Muslim riots in Gujarat, where human rights organizations claim around 2,500 people, primarily Muslims, were killed. The official death toll stands at about 1,000. The riots were sparked in 2002 following a fire on a train carrying Hindu pilgrims, resulting in the deaths of 59 individuals. The fire was alleged to have been started by a group of Muslim individuals. | 2 |
Thunberg, the 16-year-old Swedish climate activist, is set to depart from Hampton, Virginia with an Australian couple on their 48-foot catamaran, La Vagabonde. The journey to Spain, where Thunberg plans to attend the next round of UN climate talks, will take about three weeks. Thunberg explained that she chose to sail as a way to emphasize the challenges of living sustainably in today's society and the need to take extreme measures. She avoids flying due to the significant greenhouse gas emissions associated with aviation. Her journey from Europe to the United States was conducted on a racing yacht that departed from Plymouth, England and arrived in New York Harbour in August. Following her arrival, Greta Thunberg traveled across the United States and Canada at a leisurely pace, making appearances on television shows, participating in protests, biking with Arnold Schwarzenegger in California, and joining school strikes from Iowa City to Los Angeles. Originally intending to travel south to Santiago, Chile for the next round of UN-sponsored climate negotiations in December, her plans had to be altered due to street protests in Santiago. Chile announced that they could no longer host the climate talks, so Spain offered Madrid as the new venue. Greta Thunberg, needing a new ride across the ocean, expressed on Twitter that she had unintentionally traveled halfway around the world in the wrong direction and now needed to find a way to cross the Atlantic in November. Riley Whitelum, an Australian sailor who has been sailing with his wife around the world, offered to help Thunberg find transportation for the journey. In a week's time, the trip was planned, with Whitelum, Carausu, and British professional sailor Nikki Henderson joining forces for the voyage. Thunberg's father, Svante, will once again accompany her on the return journey, just as he did on the initial trip. Their 11-month-old son, Lenny, will also be on board, which means Thunberg will not be the youngest person among the group, a rare occurrence for her. "Finally," she remarked. Thunberg's rapid ascension can largely be attributed to her being a child. At the age of 15, she made the decision to protest in front of the Swedish parliament, holding a handmade sign advocating for climate action. Thunberg attributes her unwavering commitment to addressing climate change to her Asperger's syndrome, a condition on the autism spectrum. Her act of civil disobedience gained widespread attention, energizing other young environmental activists and sparking numerous school strikes around the world. Utilizing the internet, young people from various countries joined forces in the millions to advocate for climate action. Their anger, similar to hers, represented the frustration felt by their generation towards the slow progress in taking action despite the clear evidence from science. Thunberg's popularity has increased in the United States, with a new anthology of her speeches being published by Penguin Press. One of her most passionate speeches, given to world leaders at the United Nations in September, has even been remixed into a death-metal version. Additionally, a mural of her face has been painted on the side of a building in San Francisco. Threats of violence and attacks related to her medical condition have been directed towards her. One of her most notable encounters in America was with President Donald Trump at the United Nations, where she saw him but he did not see her. Thunberg expressed her thoughts on the encounter by saying, "It speaks for itself." She expressed her hope that La Vagabonde would safely and punctually bring her to Spain. She was eager to return home to Stockholm and embrace her two dogs after her travels. Although she enjoys traveling, she feels fortunate for the opportunity but is looking forward to getting back to her regular routines. | 2 |
The three Academy Awards contenders have deliberate messages that were not accidental. They were all created and funded by Participant Media, a company that is a pioneer in promoting social causes through films. Participant Media was established in 2004 by Jeff Skoll, a billionaire and former President of eBay. The company's portfolio includes a variety of films, such as "An Inconvenient Truth" about climate change, "Lincoln" directed by Steven Spielberg, and "Spotlight" which won Best Picture and focuses on journalists uncovering abuse by Catholic priests. Participant Media's Chief Executive, David Linde, explained that they are drawn to stories of ordinary individuals making a difference and inspiring change in their own lives and the lives of others. Linde mentioned that "Roma" is a notable example, a black-and-white drama distributed by Netflix Inc. The film centers around Cleo, an indigenous Mexican housekeeper who demonstrates bravery in the face of significant obstacles. It will be competing for the best picture award at the Oscars against "Green Book," a Participant movie from Comcast Corp's Universal Pictures which tells the story of a black pianist on a 1962 concert tour of the segregated US South. Actor Mahershala Ali was present at the 91st Oscars Nominees Luncheon in Beverly Hills, California on February 4, 2019. Additionally, "RBG," a documentary about US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, is also nominated for an Oscar. Actor Mahershala Ali was present at the 91st Oscars Nominees Luncheon in Beverly Hills, California on February 4, 2019. The participant's films are connected with activism off-screen. For example, in the case of "Roma," the company collaborated with the National Domestic Workers Alliance to advocate for labor protections and also supported the introduction of an app that offers benefits to house cleaners, such as paid time off. Scott Budnick, who left his career producing comedies like "The Hangover" to champion prison reform, is also using compelling and commercially successful entertainment to drive change. Through his new company, One Community, he aims to raise $10 million for a year-long campaign leading up to the January 2020 release of the film "Just Mercy," a biographical drama featuring Michael B. Jordan as a lawyer working to free a man wrongly accused of murder. In an interview, Budnick stated that the campaign, set to launch in the next two months, aims to bring about changes on issues like the death penalty and juvenile sentencing. One Community, which is co-financing "Just Mercy" with AT&T Inc's Warner Bros., acts as a bridge between philanthropy, politics, and the entertainment industry. Julie Cohen and Betsy West from "RBG" were seen at a reception for Oscar-nominated documentary films in Los Angeles on February 19, 2019. Budnick noted that while many philanthropists and politicians focus on issues like poverty or homelessness, they are not always connected with major studios that spend millions of dollars to promote these causes to the public. "We are here to serve as that aligner," he stated. Macro, a production company dedicated to creating TV shows and movies that showcase diverse stories of people of color, is a co-producer of "Just Mercy." Previous successful films from Macro include the critically acclaimed "Fences" and "Mudbound." Founded by former talent agent Charles King, Macro is supported by organizations like the Ford Foundation, which contributed $5 million. "Shaping which narratives are shared, by whom, and from what perspective, is a powerful means of influencing the conversation in this country," said Cara Mertes, director of the Ford Foundation's JustFilms initiative. According to Budnick, the impact on social justice is significant for us. One Community, founded by Budnick, receives funding from different investors such as Endeavor Content and Philadelphia 76ers co-owner Michael Rubin. It operates as a company with a dual purpose of making profits and creating social change. Budnick mentioned that they are collaborating with social scientists to create measurements to assess their accomplishments. He also noted that this approach may not appeal to all investors. If an individual is seeking a tenfold return on their investment, they could turn to companies like Twitter, Uber, and Instagram, according to Budnick. However, the company in question is not focused on such high returns but rather on generating profit and making a positive impact. | 2 |
Nuclear-capable Russian missiles have been seen near Ukraine, raising concerns of possible intervention by the Kremlin. Russia has tested hypersonic cruise missiles that can evade US defenses and has severed ties with NATO. Ransomware attacks from Russia have resumed after a pause, and a new Russian cybersurveillance campaign has been uncovered by Microsoft. Since President Joe Biden took office, the US has imposed extensive sanctions on Russia, supported Ukraine's military, and threatened cyberattacks in retaliation. The US Embassy in Moscow has significantly reduced visa issuance. During the Group of 20 summit in Rome, Biden was unable to meet face-to-face with Putin due to the Russian president attending remotely because of COVID-19 concerns. However, despite the tensions between the two countries, they have been engaged in talks. Since their summit in Geneva in June, there have been multiple meetings between senior Biden administration officials and Russian officials in Moscow, Finland, and Switzerland. The discussions have focused on arms control and cyber issues, with White House adviser Anne Neuberger holding virtual meetings with her Kremlin counterpart. Several weeks ago, the United States provided information about hackers targeting the country to Russia after a debate within the US intelligence community. The US is now waiting to see if this information leads to arrests, testing Putin's commitment to cracking down on cybercrime. Talks between the two countries have not yet produced substantial results but have helped to prevent tensions from escalating. Despite being cautious about Putin's intentions, the US believes it can collaborate with Russia on issues like arms control. Russia has supported the US on certain international matters, such as the Iran nuclear deal, but also creates obstacles in other areas. Biden's diplomatic approach has been praised in Russia, as it signals a willingness from the US to negotiate deals. Fyodor Lukyanov, a prominent Moscow foreign policy analyst who advises the Kremlin, stated that Biden recognizes the importance of taking a cautious approach and understands that Russia cannot be changed. The talks are seen as a way for the White House to prevent unexpected geopolitical issues that could affect Biden's priorities, while for Putin, they are an opportunity to demonstrate Russia's global influence and enhance his image as a stabilizing force domestically. Fiona Hill, a former top Russia expert in the National Security Council under President Trump, emphasized that Russians dislike being ignored more than anything else. The United States is facing a risky situation as it tries to engage with Russia in order to maintain its position as a major player on the global stage. There are concerns about Russia's actions, such as holding out for the approval of a new pipeline before delivering gas, and the possibility of new military action near Ukraine. Additionally, Russia's cybercampaign is a major concern, with reports of attempts to infiltrate US government and corporate networks despite sanctions imposed by the Biden administration. However, it also signified a long-lasting change in Russian strategies, as stated by Dmitri Alperovitch, the chairman of the research group Silverado Policy Accelerator. Alperovitch pointed out that the shift towards undermining the United States' cyberspace infrastructure, rather than solely targeting individual corporations or federal entities, was not a one-time occurrence but a deliberate change in tactics. Russia has already capitalized on President Biden's desire for a more stable and predictable relationship to gain concessions from Washington. For instance, when Victoria Nuland, a senior State Department official, attempted to visit Moscow for discussions at the Kremlin, the Russian government initially hesitated. Nuland, considered one of Washington's most influential critics of Russia, was on a blacklist of individuals banned from entering the country. Despite this, the Russians proposed a compromise. If Washington were to grant a visa to a high-ranking Russian diplomat who has been unable to enter the United States since 2019, then Nuland would be able to visit Moscow. The Biden administration accepted this offer, and Nuland's discussions in Moscow were said to cover a wide range of topics. However, there are certain issues that the Kremlin does not want to address, such as Russia's crackdown on dissent and the treatment of imprisoned opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Despite Biden's expressed disapproval of these matters this year, they have largely gone unaddressed in the talks between the United States and Russia. Although Biden will not meet Putin in person at the Group of 20 summit in Rome or the climate summit in Glasgow, Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that another meeting between the two presidents this year in some form is likely. Foreign Minister Sergey V Lavrov mentioned that he briefly spoke with Biden in Rome and that the president emphasized his commitment to further communication. Kadri Liik, a Russia specialist at the European Council on Foreign Relations in Berlin, noted that Biden has been successful in signaling towards Russia. She added that Russia desires the privilege of being a great power and breaking rules. However, rules are necessary for this to happen. The United States continues to play a significant role in determining global rules, whether people like it or not. Recent discussions between Russian and American officials have focused on "strategic stability," which covers traditional arms control as well as concerns about how new technology, such as artificial intelligence in weapons systems, could increase the risk of accidental war or limit decision-making time for leaders to prevent conflict. Wendy Sherman, the deputy secretary of state, has led discussions on these issues, which American officials see as a positive aspect of the relationship. Working groups have been established to address topics such as "novel weapons," such as Russia's Poseidon autonomous nuclear torpedo. While Pentagon officials view China's nuclear modernization as the main long-term threat, they consider Russia to be the immediate challenge. Gen John E Hyten, who will retire soon as the vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated to reporters on Thursday that Russia remains the most significant threat due to their possession of 1,550 deployed nuclear weapons. John Kerry, Biden’s climate envoy, visited Moscow for four days in July, while Robert Malley, the special envoy for Iran, held discussions in Moscow in September. Russian deputy prime minister Alexei Overchuk had positive and honest talks with Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, and Wendy Sherman. Putin, with over 20 years in power, appreciates these displays of respect in diplomatic relations. Experts pointed out that he recently made his own statement during a conference in October when an Iranian attendee asked him about Biden's withdrawal from Afghanistan and its impact on US power. Putin responded by commending Biden's decision and dismissing the idea that the disorderly exit would have a lasting impact on America's reputation. He stated that over time, things would settle without causing any significant changes, emphasizing that a country's attractiveness is determined by its economic and military strength. | 2 |
The high expenses of hotels, travel restrictions due to COVID-19, and mandatory isolation regulations have caused worry among Dickson and other activists from developing nations that their messages may not be effectively communicated at the COP26 conference in Glasgow from Oct 31-Nov 12. Reuters conducted interviews with activists in countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Uganda. While some individuals had successfully secured funding, visas, and vaccinations to participate in the summit, others had given up on the prospect. Despite the challenges, Dickson remains determined to attend COP26, where he plans to share his firsthand experiences of trying to study in a school with temperatures as high as 43°C. He believes it is crucial for developed nations to listen to the personal stories of those who are most impacted by climate change. The 28-year-old representing Nigeria's Eco Clean Active NGO is still seeking funding for his trip to the COP summit in Glasgow, which he estimates will cost over $4,000. He is concerned about the lack of representation from the African continent at the summit. The British hosts of the summit have offered funding assistance and vaccines for delegates who need them. They are working with partners to ensure an inclusive, accessible, and safe summit with COVID mitigation measures. Delegates have been offered fairly-priced accommodation by government-approved hotel provider MCI. The United Kingdom recently lifted quarantine requirements for 47 countries, including South Africa and India, saving delegates the cost of a 10-day hotel quarantine. The previous month, an announcement was made stating that quarantine costs for delegates from countries on the UK's COVID-19 travel "red list" would be covered. Currently, there are seven states on this list, including Colombia and Venezuela. However, some potential delegates have reported difficulties in accessing this assistance or feel that it is insufficient. Some believe that their own governments should be taking more action to ensure their attendance. Mitzi Jonelle Tan, an activist based in the Philippines with the youth movement Fridays for Future, described the challenges with visas and quarantines as a nightmare. Fridays for Future plans to send approximately 55 delegates from regions that are at risk of climate change to COP26, but Tan mentioned that some individuals had to drop out before the UK updated its quarantine regulations. The UK government is preparing for COP26 and expecting 25,000 attendees, but has not yet revealed the list of delegates. Hotel rooms for the full 12-day conference are priced starting at 291 pounds per night on Booking.com, totaling 3,486 pounds. This cost was too high for Nyombi Morris, a 23-year-old climate justice advocate from Uganda, who declined the UK's accreditation offer due to lack of financial support. Morris expressed his intention to confront policymakers in person in the future. Homestay groups have attempted to offer more budget-friendly lodging options, but are facing challenges in meeting the high demand. The Human Hotel network has managed to secure accommodations in local homes in Glasgow for approximately 600 attendees. However, the network's community manager Michael Yule noted that there are several thousand others who want to attend COP26 but cannot afford the expensive hotel prices in Scotland. In addition, some individuals are choosing to skip the event due to health concerns and travel difficulties brought on by the pandemic. For instance, Li Shuo, a senior climate adviser at Greenpeace China in Beijing, mentioned that he has attended every COP event since 2010, but will be missing this one. "I believe that the decreased presence of smaller NGOs will highlight the fact that there are certain voices that are not being heard. Government delegations that do not have direct travel options to Glasgow are also facing challenges with logistics. For example, the Cook Islands in the South Pacific will not be sending a delegation, and other small island nations are struggling with visa issues. Nobert Nyandire, a climate activist from Nairobi, Kenya, recently received a COVID-19 vaccine through the UK government program. He will be attending COP26 to assist with the technical UN negotiations for Kenya's non-profit Sustainable Environmental Development Watch. However, he mentioned that some of his colleagues are still waiting for vaccines or have been discouraged by the cost." Nyandire expressed doubt about the decisions that will be made if the individuals affected and who should participate in the negotiations do not attend. | 2 |
It cautioned the Socialist government that the European football competition starting in France on June 10 could face disruptions if the government did not compromise. Demonstrators flooded the streets while workers heeded the union's call by halting operations at various facilities and setting up obstacles at ports and distribution centers. Prime Minister Manuel Valls remained firm on the law reforms, stating that there could be minor adjustments but no major changes. The CFDT trade union supported Valls' stance. The ongoing protests against the reforms, which aim to simplify hiring and firing processes, were seen as a crucial test to determine the strength of the CGT-led opposition. Scores of marchers from the Nuit Debout youth protest movement joined the street marches. Police were deployed to prevent fringe violence, as several protesters and 350 police officers had been injured and over 1,300 arrested at similar rallies in recent weeks. CGT chief Philippe Martinez suggested that the government could halt the Euro 2016 football contest to resolve the situation. Jean-Claude Mailly, leader of the FO union, called for the prime minister to take action as a Paris march commenced. Despite calls to scrap the controversial part of the law that sparked the protests, Prime Minister Valls insisted there would be no change in direction. The SNCF, a state train company, reported that more than two-thirds of national, regional, and local rail connections were operational, indicating that the railworkers' strikes were having a lesser impact compared to last week when the number of trains running was cut in half. Following police intervention to clear blockades at refineries and fuel distribution depots, Prime Minister Valls stated that 20-30 percent of fuel stations were either out of fuel or low on certain types of fuel. Transport Minister Alain Vidalies mentioned that the situation was improving, with fuel deliveries from depots to petrol pumps increasing. The number of fuel stations experiencing shortages decreased from 140 on Wednesday to 83 on Thursday in the Loire-Atlantique department of western France. The French nuclear power capacity has been reduced by up to five gigawatts because of stoppages, which is approximately six percent of the total production capacity of the country. Despite experts in the power industry stating that the strike at the nuclear plant is not likely to cause major blackouts due to legal restrictions on strike activities and power imports from other countries, it usually leads to higher operating costs for the EDF power utility. Additionally, with dockers on strike at the southern port of Marseille, the number of ships waiting at sea to unload oil, gas, and chemicals has increased to 21 from the usual five, according to the port authority. In 2010, a protest over pension reform ended when police dispersed picketers at supply depots and railworkers faced stoppages affecting their income. Total SA, a major oil company, announced that all of its fuel distribution depots, except for one, were operational. However, it cautioned that two out of its five refineries in France were currently not in operation, with two more expected to shut down in the near future. The CGT union is facing a more isolated struggle this time around. Laurent Berger, leader of the CFDT union which supports the proposed labor reform, expressed concerns about the tense political and industrial relations environment, urging for a more peaceful approach. | 2 |
Germany is not considering changing its approach to Europe's debt crisis, despite opposition to its austerity policies in Greece and France. Chancellor Angela Merkel rejected the idea that Europe was about to shift its policies after Francois Hollande's victory in France and Greek voters punishing parties that cut spending for a bailout. Merkel's allies indicated that they expected Hollande to make concessions and backpedal on promises made during his campaign, which Germany views as risky for the eurozone. Volker Kauder, parliamentary leader of Merkel's conservatives, emphasized that the German government's stance is unequivocal: they will maintain their commitment to fiscal austerity. After a disappointing performance by Merkel's Christian Democrats in a recent state election, it is clear to her that in order to secure a third term in office, she must address the concerns of German voters who do not want their money to be given away to foreign countries. Kauder, a close ally of Merkel, warned that Germans may end up bearing the financial burden of a Socialist victory in France through increased guarantees and funding, a situation that he deems unacceptable. Germany is not here to fund promises made by France during their election. These promises, including balancing the budget, hiring more teachers, implementing a high tax on million-euro incomes, raising the minimum wage, and supporting euro zone bonds and ECB involvement in growth, are seen as costly and go against German norms. Andreas Schockenhoff, a CDU lawmaker, predicts that Hollande will soon commit to stability policies. Merkel's spokesperson, Steffen Seibert, emphasized at a news conference that the key to moving forward in Europe is through growth achieved by structural reforms, such as changes to tax and labor laws to enhance trade, rather than relying on debt-funded stimulus plans. Merkel herself stated that while tactics can be discussed, the overall strategy agreed upon by EU leaders for fiscal consolidation is non-negotiable. She acknowledged that France, under its new president, will bring its own perspective to the debate, but stressed that solid finances and growth are both necessary for progress. Merkel reached out to Hollande, whom she had never met, after his victory, and the two leaders spoke for nearly 15 minutes with the help of interpreters. Sources informed Reuters that the discussion between Hollande and Merkel was amicable, with Hollande expressing his desire for strong relations. Hollande is scheduled to travel to Berlin next week, likely on May 16, following his inauguration, for his first international visit. Merkel stated that Hollande would be greeted warmly. Germany has indicated its readiness to discuss a "growth pact" with the incoming French president, potentially enabling Hollande to highlight progress in his efforts for a more equitable crisis strategy. However, it is improbable that bold new initiatives which could greatly benefit struggling economies such as Greece and Spain will be implemented. CDU budget expert Norbert Barthle mentioned to Reuters that while increasing growth is important, the key is determining how to achieve it. German officials have suggested that they are willing to consider a more flexible approach to using EU structural funds, increasing the capital of the European Investment Bank (EIB), and permitting the issuance of "project bonds" for infrastructure investment. These measures would not necessitate a significant amount of new funds from Berlin, making them feasible options. However, Germany is against the idea of implementing new government stimulus programs, extending the time for euro members to reduce deficits, or giving the ECB more authority to promote growth. A high-level German source stated that there will be no relaxation of deficit targets, and pointed to Hollande's victory speech in Tulle as evidence of his willingness to cooperate with Germany. Hollande's second priority of reducing the deficit was seen as a significant signal. Hollande's chief economic adviser, Michel Sapin, also emphasized that the expectation is not to simply distribute money upon taking office. Officials in Berlin and Brussels are taking a firm stance on Greece, emphasizing that there is no room for the country to back out of or renegotiate the terms of its multi-billion euro rescues by the EU and the IMF. The recent election results in Greece, which saw a surge in support for extreme parties, have raised concerns about whether Athens will uphold its commitments and sparked speculation about the possibility of the country being forced out of the euro zone. A senior euro zone source stated that Greece must either adhere to the program and receive financing from member states or face default. The consequences of default are uncertain, but it is likely to result in further hardships for Greek citizens. At the heart of the European project, which was established by France and Germany to put an end to a series of wars, Hollande can count on the support of Italy, the euro zone's third largest economy. Despite facing challenges from a stagnant economy and budget cuts aimed at pleasing creditors, Prime Minister Mario Monti's government in Italy has backed Hollande's pro-growth agenda. Hollande's approach towards Germany, France's key partner, will be revealed when he announces his government later this month. Jean-Marc Ayrault, a German-speaking candidate who has shown willingness to cooperate with Berlin, is a top contender for the position of prime minister over Martine Aubry, a more traditional Socialist. This choice would indicate Hollande's readiness to compromise. Louis Gargour, chief investment officer of hedge fund LNG Capital, expressed his curiosity about whether Hollande will initiate his presidency by engaging in a conflict with Merkel. Gargour views this as a clash between Keynesian economics and a emphasis on growth, as opposed to a prolonged period of austerity that voters are increasingly weary of. | 2 |
Anson Chan, a former high-ranking civil servant known as "Hong Kong's conscience," has emerged victorious in a significant by-election for a seat in the city's legislature. This election, viewed as a test of democracy in the former British colony, was seen as a positive outcome for the pro-democracy political groups in Hong Kong. Chan, who previously served as deputy to the last British governor, Chris Patten, expressed her belief in the importance of universal suffrage by 2012, noting that her campaign experience further reinforced her conviction that genuine democracy is crucial for upholding freedoms and values in society. Despite the return of Hong Kong to Chinese rule in 1997, the territory has not yet seen significant political reform. The city's constitution aims for universal suffrage in political reform but lacks clarity on timing and direction. The British did not promote this idea until the end of colonial rule under Patten. Chan had a larger margin over her main rival, Regina Ip, than expected, despite opinion polls suggesting a closer race. Ma Ngok, an associate professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, believes that the election results show continued support for democracy in Hong Kong, even as the economy improves and becomes more intertwined with China, which Beijing should consider. Since 1997, the democratic camp's usual support rate of approximately 60 percent has declined, prompting experts to suggest that they should reconsider their strategy of focusing on single issues during elections. Chan received 54 percent of the vote, leading James Sung of City University to call for a comprehensive review by the pan-democrats. Sung expressed concern that they may not fully analyze the shifting political landscape due to Anson's clear victory. Despite her loss, Ip's strong performance highlighted the effectiveness of the pro-Beijing camp's election machinery, as seen in the district council elections. It also signaled the comeback of a politician known for attempting to push through a controversial anti-subversion law in 2003 as security chief. This move led to a massive protest with half a million participants, surprising leaders in Beijing. Analysts believe that Ip, who is 57 years old, is in a good position to run in the upcoming full Legislative Council elections. Currently, the chief executive is chosen by an 800-seat committee under the influence of the Communist leadership in Beijing, with half of the legislature being elected by the public and the rest selected by "functional constituencies" representing professions and special-interest groups. | 2 |
A survey conducted by the World Bank in 15 nations, primarily in developing countries such as Bangladesh, reveals that the majority of people are in favor of their governments implementing measures to combat climate change, even if it results in significant expenses. | 2 |
It continued to deteriorate: Karachi is currently facing a serious issue with swarms of flies. They can be found everywhere in the city, including neighborhoods, markets, and stores, bothering everyone. They are a nuisance on the streets, entering buildings and vehicles, and landing on various surfaces, such as food and people. Flies are often associated with flooding, which is a common occurrence in Karachi. Dr. Seemin Jamali, the executive director of one of the city's largest public hospitals, stated that this is the most severe fly infestation she has ever seen. “There is a large number of flies and mosquitoes,” she said. “It is not just impacting the everyday lives of people — they are quite frightening and harassing individuals. It is impossible to walk down the street without encountering numerous flies.”
Flies can be seen on fruits and vegetables at a market in Karachi, Pakistan, as of Aug. 28, 2019. Karachi, Pakistan's largest city, has been experiencing heavy rainfall, poor drainage, and a garbage issue leading to a widespread infestation of bugs. Despite efforts to fumigate the city, the flies persist, causing growing frustration among residents. The city's ongoing issues with garbage and drainage are receiving renewed attention and frustration, sparking anger among residents. Political factions have long used these problems to criticize each other, but no improvements have been made. The recent infestation of flies in Karachi, Pakistan, is believed to be a result of heavy rains, poor drainage, and a garbage problem. Experts suggest that the combination of stagnant rainwater, garbage on the streets, and waste from the recent Eid al-Adha festival contributed to the infestation. Noman Ahmed, an expert on the city's water issues, stated that the recent rainfall was not unusually heavy. He mentioned that the recent rains in Karachi exposed the city's ongoing issues with urban development, sewage, waste management, and water contamination, particularly the practice of using natural drains as dumping grounds for solid waste. Ahmed warned that if similar weather events occur, the city could become completely dysfunctional. In Bohri Bazaar, flies covering a man's hat are a visible result of Karachi's heavy rains, poor drainage, and garbage problem. Jamali also noted that there has been a surge in medical conditions such as malaria, gastroenteritis, typhoid, dengue fever, chikungunya virus, respiratory disorders, and Congo fever due to the unsanitary conditions. In the Bohri Bazaar in Karachi, Pakistan on August 28, 2019, a man's hat was covered with flies due to heavy rains, poor drainage, and a garbage problem in Pakistan's biggest city. The bugs are now a widespread issue. A woman noted that the community must take responsibility for the situation, mentioning the dumping of sacrificial animals' offal on the streets as a contributing factor to the garbage problem. Vendors in the bazaar were seen fanning their goods to keep flies away, as the insects flew in and out of shops and settled on various displays. Muhammad Ismail Siddiqui, aged 54, is a vendor who sells traditional sweets such as jalebi and gulab jamun. He has covered his sweets with clear plastic to protect them. Siddiqui expressed concern about the flies, stating that they are not just a seasonal problem. In the past, the government used to conduct fumigation drives early in the day, but now there is nothing being done. Siddiqui feels helpless as his business has been severely impacted. "Those who arrive simply observe the abundance of flies."
Flies are widespread in a meat market located in the Empress Market in Karachi, Pakistan, as of August 28, 2019. The city's ongoing issues with heavy rainfall, poor drainage, and inadequate waste management have led to a significant insect problem. The local political parties have been quick to point fingers at the city's leadership for the situation. Recently, sanitation has once again become a focal point for politicians, who are using it as a tool for both rallying support and attacking their opponents. Pakistan's largest city is facing a significant issue with heavy rains, poor drainage, and a garbage problem, leading to an infestation of bugs. The PTI, currently in power at the national level, is attempting to gain influence in Karachi to challenge the traditional dominance of the PPP at the provincial level. A local PTI legislator initiated a "Let's Clean Karachi" campaign, indirectly blaming the PPP for the garbage issue. However, a PPP senator, Saeed Ghani, argues that the campaign has exacerbated the problem with poorly managed cleanups. The task of truly cleaning up Karachi, where garbage is commonly seen piled up on roadsides and in empty spaces, would be a difficult and costly endeavor. The city of Karachi generates approximately 12,000 tons of waste on a daily basis. The resources and infrastructure in Karachi have not been able to keep pace with the rapid expansion, population growth, and changes in lifestyle among its over 15 million residents. Additionally, Karachi is facing the same challenges related to climate change that are affecting the rest of Pakistan. This is evident in issues such as flies infesting produce in markets due to heavy rains, poor drainage, and a garbage crisis in the city. Karachi's management is intricate and divided, with waste management and municipal services being handled by separate agencies. Construction of buildings often encroaches on drains, and certain areas of the city, including upscale neighborhoods, are managed separately as cantonment areas. The city's recent heavy rains, poor drainage system, and garbage issue have led to a widespread infestation of bugs, including flies on produce at a market in Karachi, Pakistan. Ahmed, an expert on water issues, stated that the livability of Karachi is decreasing and the city is in need of a sanitation emergency to address the backlog of waste in the streets and drains. This would require provincial resources and cooperation among politicians. Ismail Lalpuria, a furniture trader in the Arambagh area, expressed frustration with the abundance of flies affecting his business. He stated that all political parties are simply engaging in politics and not accomplishing any meaningful work. | 2 |
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN has initiated the distribution of agricultural supplies to farmers affected by Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh's coastal region. The distribution is part of the Emergency 2007 Cyclone Recovery and Restoration Project (ECRRP) funded by the World Bank, and has been ongoing since July 13 in 13 southern Upazilas. The FAO office in Dhaka stated that the distribution team is being accompanied by government and FAO officials. Bangladesh's FAO representative Ad Spijkers emphasized the need for farmers in the south to receive support with modern technologies to rebuild their livelihoods following the destruction caused by Cyclones Sidr and Aila. Spijkers also mentioned that assistance for crops, fisheries, and livestock will continue for the next four years. Spijkers reiterated that despite being vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters, farm production can be increased by using stress-tolerant seeds and modern machinery such as power tillers and irrigation pumps. He discussed the goals of the ECRRP project, which include promoting balanced fertilizer use, improving surface water irrigation, and providing training on modern technologies through Farmers Field Schools. Spijkers also mentioned that the FAO has assisted 1.4 million farmers after Sidr and Aila by providing emergency inputs for crops, fisheries, and livestock. Additionally, he stated that 12 southern districts will benefit from recent EU funding for agriculture sectors. Spijkers emphasized the importance of investing in the southern delta to achieve sustainable food security in Bangladesh, highlighting the use of modern technologies and practices to reach this goal. He stressed the importance of creating an investment master plan that will effectively align the agriculture and water sectors in the south to promote sustainable development and restore the region to its role as the country's main source of food production. The FAO chief also pledged to collaborate with the government and development partners to establish this plan. | 2 |
The climate fund will provide funding for the construction of new cyclone shelters and roads, as well as the renovation of existing shelters in the coastal area. The Bangladesh Climate Change Resilience Fund's governing council approved a Tk 1.87 billion project for nine coastal districts during their first meeting. State minister for environment, Hassan Mahmud, stated that the initial plan includes building 50 new cyclone shelters and renovating 40 old ones, as well as constructing approximately 50 km of roads in the coastal districts. Efforts will be made to secure funds from donor countries and agencies for the project. Mahmud stated that Bangladesh had been guaranteed $147 million for the project, with the UK pledging $10 million and Australia committing $16 million. Additionally, two other projects - the construction of a cross dam at Noakhali-Urirchar-Sandip to reclaim land from the sea and coastal forestation - were also addressed during the meeting. | 2 |
Many loyal readers appreciate the book, which is based in the 1950s and showcases various interreligious friendships and relationships. The novel is cherished for its relatable family stories and its portrayal of secular, independent citizenship. Finally, after numerous unsuccessful attempts, the beloved book has been adapted into a luxurious six-part series directed by Mira Nair, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker. The series was well-received when it premiered on BBC One in July, being praised as the network's first prime-time drama shot in India with an almost entirely Indian cast. However, the reaction in India was mixed, with members of the ruling Hindu nationalist party calling for a boycott due to its portrayal of interfaith romance, leading to police investigating Netflix, the show's distributor. In the United States, where the series debuted on Acorn TV, it arrived with less fanfare but without any calls for boycott. Nair, who was raised in India but now resides in New York, humorously refers to the show as "‘The Crown’ in Brown" due to its grand story and production. However, beyond its grandeur, the project holds personal and political significance for her. Nair expressed that she wanted to create a reflection of a world that was gradually moving away from her, particularly drawn to the ideals of the 1950s when her parents got married. The novel "A Suitable Boy" was conceived amidst the rise of Hindu nationalist politics in India after the destruction of a mosque in 1992, set against the backdrop of the religious division of India and Pakistan in 1947 by the British. His approach was to write a dramatic comedy of manners, focusing on a mother's efforts at Indian matchmaking which evolved into a complex and heartfelt story involving four upper-class families, forbidden lovers, religious harmony, and post-Partition politics. This novel became the definitive representation of India's early years. Despite initial struggles to adapt the book, Seth personally selected screenwriter Andrew Davies for the task. With the help of his sister, Aradhana Seth, who served as both producer and executive producer, the BBC commissioned the series in 2017. Director Mira Nair, who had shown interest from the start, joined the project the following year. Despite humorous comparisons, the television adaptation of "Suitable" lacked the lavish budget of "The Crown," resulting in the production being condensed to six episodes and focusing primarily on the young protagonists, Lata and Maan. The adaptation had to make compromises in order to afford the locations and period details desired by the creators, Aradhana Seth emphasized the importance of approaching the adaptation with fresh eyes and leaving the book behind. The TV version narrows its focus on Lata and Maan as they navigate coming of age in 1952 India, during the country's first post-independence elections. Maniktala commented on Lata's abundance of energy, noting that she is a recent university graduate who has not yet experienced much of the world. Lata lives in a bubble where she believes everything will be wonderful. Filming for the show was finished in India in December, and Nair took a break from editing in London to visit New York in March. However, international borders closed due to the coronavirus, forcing Nair to edit the show with her team from different locations around the world using multiple screens. The music for the show was created remotely, with a full orchestra in Budapest and composers Alex Heffes and Anoushka Shankar in Los Angeles and London. The show received positive reviews in the mainstream press in Britain for its representation on the BBC, but South Asian critics were less impressed, criticizing the English dialogue and accents. Despite social media backlash, Vikram Seth defended his choice of writer Andrew Davies, saying that race shouldn't be a factor. Davies explained that he was chosen for his experience in adapting long books. His previous TV adaptations include "Bleak House" and "Pride and Prejudice." "I feel defensive and protective of my work as a writer. I believe in my right to empathize with people who are different from me," Nair, who grew up in a non-religious Hindu family, fought to include more of the novel's political themes in the screenplay. "Politics was a major focus for me, and one of my main goals was to shift the story's balance," she explained. "Instead of focusing on 'will she or won't she marry,' like in 'Pride and Prejudice' with Mrs. Bennet, I wanted to emphasize Lata's role in shaping India." Nair also aimed to incorporate as much Hindi and Urdu dialogue as possible while adhering to BBC broadcasting rules. When asked about balancing her unique perspective with the expectations of British television, she simply laughed. “It was a delightful struggle, if I may say so.” This is a common challenge for Nair, who is experienced in the often tough battles for more authentic and artistic portrayals of South Asians on Western screens. Nair has created several well-received films about India and its diaspora, often focusing on social issues rooted in everyday life. According to Amardeep Singh, a professor at Lehigh University, her latest project, "A Suitable Boy," continues this trend by addressing the changes happening in modern India, fitting in with her previous works like "Monsoon Wedding" and "Salaam Bombay!". The series was shot on location in real cities, capturing both their grandeur and decay, with production designers working to create a midcentury Indian minimalism by concealing the chaos of modern life. In Lucknow, a mansion was transformed into the home of a Muslim singer and courtesan named Saeeda Bai, symbolizing a fading aristocratic Islamic court culture and literary sensuality. Tabu, one of India's most celebrated actors, plays the role of Saeeda in the film. Her character's poetry, singing, and beauty captivate Maan, the son of a prominent Hindu politician. Tabu mentioned that director Mira Nair is very particular about portraying women on screen, and Saeeda Bai is depicted as ethereal and untouchable. Maan, played by Khatter, emphasized the powerful theme of interfaith love in a diverse country like India. He shared his personal connection to the theme as the son of parents from different religions. The filming wrapped up just before protests erupted in response to a law excluding Muslim migrants from Indian citizenship under the Hindu nationalist government. Sadaf Jafar, who portrays Saeeda's servant, Bibbo, took part in protests and was subsequently arrested and mistreated by police. Despite warnings from friends, Nair launched a public campaign for Jafar's release, quoting poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz to justify her actions. The positive message of multiculturalism in "A Suitable Boy" may appear outdated, but Maniktala, who plays Lata, found the story's themes of hope and kindness to be relevant. Reflecting on her own family's history, Maniktala became emotional as she considered the impact of the 1947 partition on her grandfather. She acknowledged the significance of pain and the lessons it teaches. She believes that people are becoming less empathetic and that the humanity aspect is diminishing. She emphasized the importance of remembering our roots and never forgetting where we came from. | 2 |
In early September, a seawall at Japan's Kansai International Airport on a reclaimed island near Osaka was breached during Typhoon Jebi, causing flooding on the runway. It took 17 days to fully restore airport operations, impacting the region's economy and airlines that had to cancel flights. Other major airports in Hong Kong, mainland China, and North Carolina were also closed last month due to tropical storms. These incidents underscore the risks faced by investors and insurers in the sector, with $262 billion worth of projects under construction globally. According to Fitch Solutions' Head of Infrastructure Richard Marshall, there is a concerning trend towards more frequent and severe climate change-related events. "If individuals are not taking that seriously, there is a potential risk." According to Angela Gittens, the Director General of Airports Council International (ACI), fifteen out of the 50 busiest airports worldwide are situated at an elevation of less than 30 feet above sea level, which leaves them susceptible to the impacts of climate change such as rising sea levels and increased storm surges. Gittens pointed out that some airports in island nations like Vanuatu and the Maldives are already experiencing the effects of sea level rise, with water reaching their runways. She also mentioned that even in more developed economies, airports are facing challenges such as more frequent storms and the need for increased pumping, citing her experience with Miami airport. A preliminary version of an ACI policy document examined by Reuters, set to be published this week, highlights the increasing threats to airport facilities posed by climate change. It advises member airports to conduct risk assessments, implement preventative measures, and factor climate change into their future development plans. The paper showcases progressive airports that have already incorporated climate change considerations into their planning, like the Istanbul Grand Airport which is expected to be one of the world's largest airports when it opens soon with a cost of $12 billion. Debt investors, particularly those with high exposure to airports, are showing increasing concern about the impact of climate change on their investments. Moody's, a ratings agency, covers $174 billion of airport bonds and analysts are now taking into account the risk of climate change following events like Superstorm Sandy in 2012. This storm led to significant financial losses for airlines and disrupted operations worldwide, prompting investors to inquire about mitigation plans for vulnerable airports like San Francisco and Boston when considering long-term investments in bonds. San Francisco International Airport, situated on sinking reclaimed land, has conducted a feasibility study on a $383 million project to enhance its resilience to sea level rises along its 8-mile bay front shoreline by 2025. Gary Moran, head of Asia aviation at Aon, noted an increase in measures to protect against flood damage and ensure storm drains are adequate. There is a growing focus on preparing for potential worsening weather conditions in the future. A Coast Guard helicopter from Atlantic City conducted an overflight assessment of New York Boroughs impacted by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. According to a US Coast Guard handout via Reuters, Singapore's Changi Airport has taken steps to prepare for rising sea levels, including resurfacing its runways for better drainage and constructing a new terminal 18 feet above sea level. These measures are seen as prudent and reassuring to insurers, as they help protect against potential weather-related risks. Singapore anticipates a sea level rise of 2.5 feet by 2100. Changi Airport did not provide information on the cost of additional protection measures. Various rating agencies were also unable to estimate the global cost of climate change protection at airports. The cost of protective measures is often included in larger renovation and expansion projects at airports, according to analysts. In Australia, Brisbane Airport, situated on reclaimed land near the coast and at a low elevation, is building a new runway higher than originally planned to account for rising sea levels. The incremental cost of these adjustments is relatively low, but the potential benefits are significant, as stated by Paul Coughlan, the director of Brisbane Airport's new runway project. Coughlan emphasized the importance of incorporating design elements that consider factors such as elevated sea levels, intense rainfall, and flooding, regardless of one's beliefs about climate change. By integrating these considerations into design philosophy early on, the cost is not significantly higher, but the benefits in terms of safeguards are substantial. | 3 |
Bangladesh is set to receive a $2 million grant from Japan through the Asian Development Bank in order to address the challenges brought about by climate change in the coming years. The grant, approved by ADB, will be used to enhance the capabilities of government agencies in implementing a 10-year Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan. This plan focuses on issues such as food security, disaster preparedness, and other important aspects related to climate change. According to Zahir Ahmad, Project Implementation Officer for ADB's Bangladesh mission, it is crucial for Bangladesh to prepare for climate change in order to protect the well-being of its citizens. The assistance from ADB will enable the government to carry out the Strategy and Action Plan, which aims to promote low carbon growth, increase climate resilience, and enhance food and energy security in the country. Recently, the country has experienced higher temperatures, heavier monsoon rains, and more tropical cyclones and storms due to climate change, according to a statement by ADB. As temperatures are projected to continue rising, it is predicted that sea levels could increase by 30 centimeters by 2050, putting 14% of the country at high risk of flooding. In addition to strengthening the Ministry of Environment and Forests and other government agencies, efforts will be made to create climate change mitigation and adaptation programs. A sub-program will also be established to encourage private sector investment in clean energy projects eligible for carbon credits under the Kyoto Protocol's Clean Development Mechanism. The total cost of this assistance is estimated at $2.5 million, with the government contributing $500,000 in kind. The project is scheduled to last for a duration of two years, commencing in August 2009, and will be carried out by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The funding for the project comes from the Japan Special Fund, which is supported by the government of Japan and managed by ADB. | 3 |
The agency has reported that several states in Malaysia including Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Johor, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan, and Sabah are still experiencing floods, with 8,727 individuals seeking refuge in 128 relief centers. A total of 125,490 people have been affected by the floods nationwide, with 117,700 evacuees having returned home. The floods, which are common during the monsoon season from October to March, have been exacerbated by heavy rainfall since December 17, resulting in thousands being displaced and putting a strain on emergency services. The death toll from the floods stands at fifty, with two individuals still missing according to a police tweet from Inspector-General Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani. In response to the meteorological department's warning of ongoing heavy rains, the National Disaster Control Centre has issued a disaster operation preparedness notice. The Department of Irrigation and Drainage has announced a warning about high tides from Jan. 2-5, specifically for residents on the west coast of Peninsula Malaysia. Malaysia has pledged to offer 1.4 billion ringgit ($336.22 million) in financial aid and other assistance to those affected by recent severe flooding. Additionally, Malaysia is requesting $3 million from the UN Green Climate Fund in order to create a national strategy for adapting to climate change. | 3 |
During its second weekend, the Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises" grossed $64.1 million in the U.S. and Canada, surpassing other films despite a slow market affected by Olympic coverage and the Colorado shooting. The final installment in Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy, starring Christian Bale, also earned $122.1 million internationally, bringing its total overseas earnings to $248.2 million since its release on July 20. Combined with its domestic earnings of $289 million, the film has now made $537 million globally. Despite a 60 percent drop in sales from its opening weekend, "The Dark Knight Rises" outperformed its predecessor "The Dark Knight" and other superhero films in terms of box office revenue. This year, the summer blockbusters "The Avengers" and "The Amazing Spider-Man" experienced declines of 50 percent and 44 percent, respectively, in the weekend following their May and June releases. Although "Dark Knight Rises" has been successful, its sales have been weaker than anticipated due to the tragic shooting at a midnight screening in Aurora, Colorado. The film's sales in North America are lagging behind its predecessor, "Dark Knight," which earned $313.8 million domestically in its first two weekends. Warner Bros. officials have not discussed the impact of the shooting on box office numbers, but industry experts believe that the turnout for "Dark Knight Rises" and other movies may have been affected by moviegoer reluctance following the massacre as well as the start of the London Olympics. President of Hollywood.com Box Office, Paul Dergarabedian, described it as a "double dose of things." The Olympics and the Aurora shooting have been getting a lot of attention in the media recently, possibly keeping many people at home on Friday night. Lackluster reviews for new movies this weekend may have also contributed to lower theater attendance. However, it is predicted that next weekend will see an increase in moviegoers, as more time passes since the Aurora shooting, the Olympics become routine, and exciting new films like "Total Recall" and "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days" are released. Domestic ticket sales for the weekend were 25 percent lower compared to the same weekend last year, according to Hollywood.com Box Office. The second spot at the box office this weekend was taken by the animated children's movie "Ice Age: Continental Drift," which earned $13.3 million. It surpassed the comedy "The Watch" and the dance movie "Step Up Revolution," both of which also had their theatrical debuts this weekend. "The Watch" came in third place, bringing in $13 million at domestic theatres. The film features Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, and Jonah Hill as men who form a neighborhood watch group to fight aliens. Despite its star-studded cast, the movie received mostly negative reviews, with only 14 percent of critics giving it a positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film "The Watch" was also impacted by real-life events. In response to the shooting of Trayvon Martin by a Neighbourhood Watch volunteer, 20th Century Fox changed the movie's title from "Neighbourhood Watch." Fox predicted the $68 million production would earn $13 million to $15 million over the weekend. Fox's executive vice president for domestic distribution, Chris Aronson, expressed uncertainty about the box office performance following the shooting, calling it a unpredictable weekend. Aronson expressed optimism for a recovery in the general market, believing it would positively impact all films. "Step Up Revolution" came in fourth place with $11.8 million in domestic earnings. The film follows a group of flash-mob dancers in Miami and is the fourth installment in a successful franchise that has made over $400 million globally. The distributor had anticipated a domestic opening in the low- to mid-teens. The comedy "Ted" finished in fifth place with $7.4 million. The movie "Step Up Revolution" was distributed by a branch of Lions Gate Entertainment. "The Watch" and "Ice Age" were distributed by 20th Century Fox, which is a subsidiary of News Corp. Sony Corp's film division was responsible for distributing "Spider-Man". | 3 |
The United Nations warned of a "silent tsunami" caused by expensive food impacting 100 million people, with aid groups arguing that restricting exports would worsen the situation. Prime Minister Gordon Brown stated that Britain would push for changes to EU biofuels targets if it was proven that growing crops for fuel was driving up food prices, despite the bloc's decision to increase biofuel use. The World Food Programme (WFP) described the crisis as a "silent tsunami" threatening over 100 million people globally, with riots erupting in poor Asian and African nations due to soaring food prices attributed to various factors such as higher fuel costs, unfavorable weather conditions, increased demand due to rising incomes, and the use of land for biofuel production. Rice prices from Thailand, the leading exporter globally, have increased by more than 100% this year. Several major food exporting countries, such as Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Egypt, and Cambodia, have restricted food exports to ensure their own supplies. Sheeran noted that artificially induced shortages have worsened the situation, as global consumption has exceeded production for the past three years, leading to depleted stocks. The rising prices have caused the World Food Programme to face a shortage of funds for purchasing food for its programs, resulting in cutbacks to school feeding initiatives in countries like Tajikistan, Kenya, and Cambodia. The WFP, which initially estimated needing $2.9 billion in 2008 to meet its needs, now anticipates having to raise that figure by 25% due to the sharp increase in prices of essential staples such as wheat, maize, and rice. The end of an era was marked by Britain's pledge of $900 million to assist the WFP in addressing immediate issues, along with Brown expressing concerns about using crops for fuel production. He stated that the UK may change its approach based on a review, and may push for changes in EU biofuels targets. Japanese Agriculture Minister Masatoshi Wakabayashi proposed clear rules for food export restrictions through the World Trade Organisation. Rajat Nag of the Asian Development Bank emphasized that the era of inexpensive food is over, urging Asian governments to avoid market distortion with export restrictions and instead use fiscal measures to assist the less fortunate. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed concern that rising food prices could undo efforts to reduce poverty. Former Secretary-General Kofi Annan warned that climate change is worsening the global food crisis and could lead to severe hunger crises in many poor countries. He emphasized that the poorest populations are disproportionately affected by climate change, and called for those responsible for environmental damage to take responsibility. Annan highlighted the far-reaching consequences of climate change, stating that it poses a threat to health, security, political stability, and social unity. | 3 |
Malpass stated in a virtual event held by the Washington Post that the sanctions would affect global economic output more significantly than the war. He anticipated a strong reaction from producers worldwide to increase supplies as necessary and believed there was no need for individuals to hoard extra stockpiles in their homes or restaurants. | 3 |
A UK official visiting Bangladesh emphasized the importance of the country adopting cleaner technology to generate power from coal in order to avoid worsening the climate change situation. John Ashton, special representative for the UK foreign secretary, stated in an interview with journalists that while coal is necessary for development, it is crucial to consider pollution. He suggested two options: either stop using coal or implement technology to minimize pollution. Ashton also recommended that the government seek funding from development partners for the use of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology in coal-fired power plants. Bangladesh, a country facing a shortage of gas, is exploring alternative options such as coal for power generation. Ashton suggested that organizations like the World Bank or DFID could assist in covering the extra costs for CCS technology. He emphasized the importance of political consensus in addressing climate change, stating that all political parties should collaborate on policies. Ashton also mentioned that the British government is open to assisting countries like Bangladesh with carbon trading. He stated that in order for buyers to participate in the carbon market, contracts must be legally enforceable to allow low emission countries to sell carbon emissions quotas. He also mentioned that the UK government is eager to collaborate with Bangladesh in this field. Bangladesh, being one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, faces the threat of widespread inundation by the end of the century. | 3 |
According to a statement from the World Bank Group member IFC, the equity investment fund will enhance the ability of small and medium enterprises to address challenges related to climate change. The fund is a part of the SEAF BV, supported by the Climate Investment Funds-Pilot Programme for Climate Resilience, which assists developing countries in building resilience to climate change. Established in 2010 by IFC and the Small Enterprise Assistance Funds, SEAF BV is focused on investing in SMEs. Hubertus Jan (Bert) van der Vaart, CEO and co-founder of SEAF, acknowledged IFC's crucial support in the fund's successful initiatives and stated that their involvement will enable the fund to start investing in climate resilience activities for small businesses, aiding them in dealing with the negative effects of climate change. The IFC stated that it had previously contributed $12 million in equity to the fund in order to stimulate investment in high-growth SMEs. | 3 |
Ending the importation of fresh food from Africa in the name of fighting climate change could harm entire communities that rely on this trade, according to Ghana's High Commissioner to Britain. The concept of "food miles" has become a controversial issue, as environmentalists push for reducing carbon emissions. Despite the desire to make a positive impact, the numbers show that airfreighted food makes up a very small percentage of Britain's overall carbon footprint. The High Commissioner questioned the decision to close off economic opportunities for African farmers by refusing to purchase their goods, emphasizing the importance of global justice in the discussion on climate change's effects on Africa. Environmentalists suggest that it is better to produce and consume food locally to reduce airfreighted imports of fruits and vegetables. However, development experts point out that many of these imports come from poorer regions in Africa, with entire communities relying on this trade. Cato argues that there are alternative ways for British consumers to reduce their carbon footprint without harming African farmers. Scientists predict a significant increase in global temperatures due to carbon emissions from fossil fuels, which could result in floods, famines, and extreme weather events, particularly affecting Africa despite its low per capita carbon emissions. Cato emphasized the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in a fair and rational manner, stating that making cuts at the expense of the world's poorest is not only unjust, but also hinders the international consensus needed for a global deal on climate change. UN environment ministers are set to meet next month in Bali to discuss urgent talks on a successor to the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012. Europe is pushing for a deal by the end of 2009, but the United States and China, the world's biggest polluters, are not taking responsibility for the crisis. Cato stressed the need for the post-Kyoto agreement to include proposals for promoting adaptation to climate change with an implementation regime that is acceptable. "This is a matter that pertains to global justice as well as the survival of nations." He further stated that while the damage has been caused by some of the most influential countries in the world, it is the most vulnerable nations that bear the brunt of the consequences. | 3 |
According to a survey commissioned by HSBC Bank International, expatriates living in Asia and the Middle East tend to have higher salaries compared to other regions. The survey found that a significant number of expats in countries like Russia, Japan, and Qatar earn more than $200,000 annually. Additionally, countries like Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, Thailand, and India also have a considerable number of expats earning over $200,000 per year. On the other hand, countries like Malaysia, China, and India are considered to be more affordable in terms of accommodation costs. The survey concluded that Asia is home to some of the highest-paid expatriates in the world, with a quarter of expats earning over $200,000 per year. Russia has been ranked as the top country for expats in terms of wealth. The other top countries were all located in Asia and the Middle East. Expats in Saudi Arabia, Russia, Qatar, India, and the United Arab Emirates have been able to increase their savings. However, the global economic crisis has negatively impacted expats in Britain and the United States, with many considering returning home due to high living costs, lack of savings, and lower wages. Australia and Belgium were also found to have relatively few opportunities for generous salaries for expats. In both countries, over 60 percent of expats earn less than $100,000, making them the lowest earners compared to the global average of 35 percent. According to Paul Say, head of marketing and communications for HSBC Bank International, expats are still considered wealthy despite the economic challenges. The Expat Explorer survey, the largest of its kind, gathered data from over 3,100 expats from 26 different countries. More than two-thirds of expatriates around the world stated that the way they spend their money has been impacted by the credit crisis, particularly in terms of luxuries and daily expenses. Nearly 40 percent mentioned that they were increasing their savings for unexpected circumstances. The highest percentage of expats in Japan, at 53 percent, reported reducing holiday and other discretionary spending, followed by expats in Thailand and Hong Kong. On the other hand, expatriates in Qatar and Bahrain were least likely to change their spending habits due to the global financial crisis, indicating that some oil-rich Gulf Arab states have been less affected by the economic downturn. Expatriates in Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Russia were also among the least likely to cut back on luxury spending, according to the survey. The individuals surveyed were selected based on four main factors: earning over $200,000 annually, having a monthly disposable income of over $3,000, saving more while working overseas, and owning at least two luxury items in their current country of residence. The survey took place from February to April 2009. | 3 |
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