Latest Articles
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Ukraine: How Russia’s Raucous Resurgence Is Becoming Increasingly Ruthless and Reckless
The recent events in Ukraine have shattered the security architecture of Europe, as the world watches Russia defy all warnings from the West concerning the sovereignty of its smaller neighbour. In this article, Matthew argues that despite the shocking nature of Putin’s attack, it has not come out of nowhere: the invasion is “the latest chapter in Russia’s increasingly ruthless and reckless raucous resurgence
The Spread of Misinformation Reveals Existing Fears and the Polarisation of Society
The extensive spread of misinformation during the pandemic caused chaos, revealing the failure of social media companies to curb the spread of false content. In this article Sharon argues that the nature of algorithms, in addition to cognitive biases that are influenced by social inequalities and xenophobic attitudes, have exacerbated the impact of misinformation. She concludes that addressing the challenge of misinformation “begins with building strong foundations for a secure society
The Precedent Set by Successful Russian Aggression
With Russia invading Ukraine and NATO on standby should Putin’s aggression escalate, the threat of nuclear warfare could become a terrifying reality. In this article, Daniel points out that mutually assured destruction has historically made wars unwinnable. But, he argues, Putin’s recent threat to use nuclear weapons against any state that becomes militarily involved in Ukraine “is a significant challenge to this status quo, with potentially terrifying consequences for global peace”
The Case for the Relevance of Multilateral Summits
With the Covid-19 pandemic forcing much of our lives online, many scholars wondered if diplomacy would also transform into a digital phenomenon. In this article, Eva questions whether multilateral summits are still fundamental to diplomacy, arguing that these in-person occaisons are essential for harmonious international relations as they “trigger the mass public’s attention and can be strategically used as a means of public diplomacy
What could trigger the never-ending adjustment of grip?
Political institutions often delegate authority to regulatory bodies to reap the benefits of their expertise. Yet, this delegation comes with challenges of its own. In this article Kirill discusses two modes of action that politicians can pursue when dealing with regulatory bureaucracies, arguing that balancing regulatory discretion with accountability could “trigger the never-ending adjustment of grips”
Should Bolsonaro’s COVID Policy Be Seen as a Form of Class Warfare?
“Bolsonaro’s deliberate attempt to achieve herd immunity disproportionately affected Brazil’s poor and vulnerable”. With Brazil’s Covid-19 death tally second only to the United States, it is worth questioning what went so wrong and why. In this article, Evan argues that the failure of President Bolsonaro’s pandemic response can be attributed to his own extreme political beliefs – at the expense of the most vulnerable in society.
Is majority rule democratic?
How democratic is majority rule? In this article, Kirill explores the advantages and disadvantages of this form of decision rule, arguing that it could be substituted by consociationalism – all through the prism of Perceval’s quest for the Holy Grail.
Xi the Perpetual Dictator: What does this mean for the West?
With Xi Jinping’s growing grip on absolute power in China, the country seems to be transitioning from a one-party authoritarian state to a personal dictatorship, firmly under Xi’s thumb. This may sound like splitting hairs, but the ramifications are crucial. In this article Matthew demonstrates how Xi’s grip on absolute, and perpetual, power will affect the West, looking at three major sticking points: The Climate Emergency, the stability of Sino-Western relations, and the Taiwan question.
The ‘American Dream’ vs. The ‘American Reality’: The Fight for Civil Rights – Immigrants
The last piece of this three-part series focuses on the mistreatment and detainment of immigrants in the United States. The ‘American Dream’ is founded on principles of providing opportunities for a better lifestyle, yet under the Trump administration, tens of thousands of migrants are detained and mistreated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Party, Plenums, and Perpetuity
“Xi now has authority over the past, present and future of the Party, the state and everyone within”
For a long time, it has been no secret that Xi Jinping’s power within China is largely unrivalled. This article shows this power as being gained through Xi’s gradual expanse of control over party and state institutions, popular policies, and ideological authority through so-called ‘Xi Jinping Thought’. However, the recent ‘historical resolution’ issued in the Central Committee’s Sixth Plenum adds a new dimension to Xi’s power: perpetuity.
Why Ordinary People Should Stop Defending Billionaires
Since the beginning of the pandemic, the collective wealth of the ‘Billion-Dollar Club’ has risen by more than a trillion dollars. Ryan argues that ordinary people should stop championing the uber-rich and start condemning their actions.
Gordon Medusa of Central Europe
The Hungarian right-wing party Fidesz is known for its populist rhetoric and policies which are being echoed within Hungarian society, initiating a domino-effect of spreading cultural grievances and opposition to the liberal values that constitute the founding pillars of European integration.
Kafala in Lebanon: Infinite Sin
Anas Adam tackles the Kafala system in Lebanon, the country’s sponsorship system for migrant domestic workers. He breaks down the system and its practices, arguing that it amounts to modern day slavery, enabling abuse and gross human rights violations. He concludes by considering change, addressing the responsibility of home countries, and examining the realities of reform at a time when Lebanon is on its last legs.
What is Next for the Northern Ireland Protocol?
The Northern Ireland Protocol (NIP) was agreed between the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) in 2019 as the complex mechanism meant to regulate the new border between the two blocs, known as the ‘Irish Sea border’.
The dangerous game of democracy in Belarus
The West must find the seemingly elusive balance between punishment of Lukashenko and protection of the people. If possible, there is a chance for a democratic Belarus. But should the sanctions misfire, it is difficult to see things changing for most Belarussians
The Awakening of a Lion: The Three Tenets of Chinese Power
“China is not rising, as such; it has risen”. Whether we in the West like it or not, China is a global power. To focus on unempathetic and belligerent critiquing of China will only lead to a new Cold War. In order to productively engage and compete with this adversarial powerhouse we must understand the key tenets of its power: historical authority, stability, and prosperity.
Missile Envy: A Tale of Nuclear Weapons & Militarised Masculinity
How does the widespread presence of nuclear weapons shape international defence politics? Almost 76 years since the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, Niamh revisits the logic of nuclear deterrence theory and challenges the patriarchal status quo it has been built on.
Justice for Grenfell: Tales of state neglect & community resistance
With four years having passed since the Grenfell Tower fire, the government continues to evade accountability for remediation and safety. Communities continue to resist this intransigence to ensure survival. Katie discusses this tale of state neglect and community resistance.
Is the UN Security Council fit for purpose?
Is the United Nations Security Council fit for purpose? After 70 years of an ever-changing world order, the five main constituents which dominate the Security Council have gradually exposed their inability to maintain international stability and have lost their reputation as “global policemen”. With outdated benefits such as the veto motion obstructing efforts towards alleviating conflict, Henna Moussavi questions the legitimacy of the five core members and their intentions with regards to the Security Council’s mission statement.
Biden’s tax reform: entering an era of economic multilateralism
The race to the bottom presents a failure of our current economic system. In this article, Weronika argues that Biden’s proposal of a corporate tax increase is an inevitable building block necessary for lessening public distrust of major global companies and financing Biden’s bold infrastructure plan. Not only will such a proposal mitigate the impact of tax avoidance among Big Tech economies that has created an unfair economic system in the US, by creating millions of jobs and propelling racial equity, it has the potential to lift the U.S. out of the depths of its devastating COVID-19 economic crisis.
Chinese Hybrid Nationalism: Harnessing public opinion during the COVID-19 pandemic
Every crisis China faces has the ability to strengthen or undermine the grip the Chinese Communist Party has over the state. What was the impact of COVID-19? Eva suggests that over the last year popular distrust and anger has transformed into national solidarity and pride, with party and popular nationalism being the key driver of this process.
“Cancel Culture”: Why We Must Not Snub Difference of Opinion
To allow cancel culture to coerce people into a consensus obstructs progressive dialogue and transgresses on the democratic freedom of speech.
Is Trumpism over?
After a rollercoaster four years in office followed by a controversial election defeat one might assume a 74-year-old Donald Trump would retire, taking his grievances with him. Ash Howlett does not quite see it like this. With increasing support from former staff, retention in grass roots support and freshmen Trumpites taking congressional office – Trump is here to stay.
How US influence contributed to a modern Haitian uprising
February 2021 saw a fresh political crisis for the nation of Haiti as local strongman Jovenel Moïse arrested a fresh batch of opposition figures, claiming they were undertaking a coup against his administration. What followed after was to be the usual for the Haitian masses as they gathered once more to oppose the hegemonic rule of Moïse. To Sam Glasper, the shooting of two journalists on February 9th in addition to the continuing battles between the masses and the armed might of the intuitions reflect not only the frustration at the rule of the corrupt Moïse but also the American influence within the country.
How do we manage free speech?
While free speech allows ideas to flourish and individual to express themselves freely, has social media, opinion reporting and political tribalism enabled wild and nonsensical conspiracy theories to proliferate the US? Ash Howell believes independent regulators, improvements in education and a process of healing between warring factions must take place to ensure individuals are able to cut through the noise and make independent judgements based on facts. Without this, events like the January 6th insurrection may be replicated in the future.
Eurobonds: A mirage for political unity within the Eurozone
Is the issuing of the join debt instrument ‘Eurobonds’ merely a mirage for political unity within the Eurozone? Suchin I argues that not only will increasing inter-state tension and underlying euroscepticism eventually result in issuance becoming unviable, but that it further empowers populist parties across the continent. Link in bio.
Act Like A Man: Deconstructing Political Gender Biases
The US elections last year may have marked a historic moment for women in politics with Kamala Harris becoming the first woman to be elected vice president, but to Niamh the fight for gender equality in higher office is far from over. She argues that gender biases and leadership stereotypes continue to disadvantage women as “societal constructions of what it means to be ‘masculine’ and ‘feminine’ set the stage for political inequality”.
The Indian Farm Bills: an uninvited step away from sustainable farming
With farmers of India enraged at the BJP’s three proposed farm bills, Ayesha Gidda argues that that ‘the imposing of such statutes marks the beginning of the end of the mandi system and MSPs keeping farmers afloat’. Given the introduction of proposals potentially leaving more than 100 million farmers to fall victim to increasing corporatization, Ayesha delves further into some of the causes of one of the biggest protests of the last decade.
Why Joe Biden isn’t the answer for progressives
Is Joe Biden the answer for progressives? After a turbulent four years many are viewing Biden with rose-tinted spectacles. However, by analysing Biden’s lengthy career in politics we can begin to make predictions about the next four years, and it doesn’t look good. A chequered past on social issues, empty promises on the environment, a mouthpiece for big business and not to mention sexual misconduct allegations; Biden isn’t the answer.
In The Shadow, A Dream: How 250 Million Workers Came To Strike In India
Whilst farmers fight cops in Delhi, tit-for-tat killings between the right and the left escalate in Kerala and Maoists stage an insurgency in Chhattisgarh. Sam Glasper suggests an intensified prolonged class struggle looks likely to grip India as millions go out on strike against the pro-corporate polices of the government. “A long history of class struggle encapsulates the Indian workers movement and its momentum is sure to become a problem for BJP Prime Minister, Narendra Modi”.
Money, Money, Money: The EU at a breaking point
Amidst a ranging pandemic and looming economic downturn, the EU has designed a much-needed recovery package as part of its 2021 budget. However, conflict over rule of law led to a crisis in which Hungary and Poland vetoed the budget. Capucine explores the ominous underlying question that this crisis reflects and that the EU will eventually have to face: how to manage contrasting understandings of democracy within the union, when it is itself built upon the unifying concept of liberal democracy and the rule of law?
Delhi’s Diminishing Dominance: Has India finally lost its strategic clout to China in Nepal?
Does the changing dynamic of the Indo-Nepali relationship cast doubt over India’s influence within South Asia? Neelanjana highlights that while Delhi’s influence remains intact within Kathmandu, by continuing in its attitude towards its smaller neighbour it is committing geo-political hara-kiri given Beijing’s looming presence in the Indian subcontinent.
How long will it be before we see a woman in the top job?
How much longer will we have to wait to see a woman finally reach the Oval Office? While Kamala Harris has broken new ground in the fight for women’s equality by becoming the first female Vice President-elect, Amelia Brennan argues that “in order to address the perpetual dominance of men at the top tier of US politics, we have to address the inequalities embedded within US society as a whole.”
Are Binary Politics Constructive?
Are binary politics still appropriate or even relevant? Obioma explores the extent to which our current political systems are representative of the diversity of opinion present in society and how this affects our views of one another. In her words ‘It is not only easy, but rational, to continue to allow our lives to be ruled by the structures that we are indoctrinated in, but I implore you to take on the personal cost of letting your thoughts and beliefs exist outside of them’.
Justice and Carbon: Why the rich should cut their emissions
Does climate change affect us all equally? Isaac highlights how ‘whilst all of us will be affected, the global poor will suffer the most due to climate change. Rich countries ought to cut their emissions not just in the name of self-preservation, but in the name of justice for the global poor.’ Put simply, he believes that whether or not the wealthy should cut their emissions is not a question of self-preservation or charity to the developing world, but a question of justice.
The Whole World is Watching – The International Reaction to the US Election
As the US presidential race draws to a close, the author examines the global fascination with the conclusion of the election. With virtually all countries having a great deal of practical interest resting on the outcome of the election, some governments have heaped praise on the victor, Joe Biden, while from others the result has prompted mockery. Nevertheless, he highlights that the high level of interest in the outcome of the race demonstrates the US’s continued importance on the world stage.
How has the pandemic hindered the legalization of abortion in Argentina
With the political landscape being dominated by COVID-19, globally we have seen previously pressing issues being relegated to the ‘political backburner’. Evan Lewis examines how the pandemic has affected the movement for legalizing abortion in Argentina. He looks at how attitudes in this majority Catholic country are slowly changing and asks, with the increase of domestic violence as a result of the Virus and subsequent lockdown, whether this change will be too late for many.
Desperately Clinging to Power is the ‘New Normal’
In countries where COVID responses have been poor, does the blame lie with the resilience of the population to make sacrifices for the greater good? Or can the buck stop at the door of failed political leaders? In this article, Yuval explores the ineffective response to coronavirus in Israel. Is it the Isreali cultural archetype of the ‘freier’ that prevented policy from being effective? Or was it the fact that “Netanyahu’s half-hearted appeals to the vaunted sense of Israeli solidarity have failed to contain the communal defiance of the Coronavirus structures across Israel”. To the author, “It seems that as Israelis, our unifying impulse is only effective when the external enemies are our Arab neighbours, and not a microscopic pathogen.”?
Mask politics and contrasting conceptions of freedom
As tensions rise across the world over governments’ differing approaches to dealing with COVID-19, the author argues that cultural differences between Western and Asian societies could explain the contrast in their reactions over mask policies. She proposes that individuals in the West should take this as an opportunity to remember that “a functional nation requires individual sacrifice” and Westerners should work to “rebuild our sense of community before we are required to make even larger sacrifices for it in the future.”
The Hong Kong Protests – Why?
In June 2019, two record-breaking sized protests gripped the streets of Hong Kong over the reading of the extradition bill. Why did this bill trigger an unprecedented response from the public? The author argues that ‘people in Hong Kong see their protected freedoms of speech, assembly and press, as well as the rule of law, being eroded. While tensions were escalated using petrol bombs, lasers, metal weapons, and tear gas, he argues that the true factor intensifying the protests is ‘the continual struggle for a more competitive and responsive government’ within the one country two systems framework.
Climate change and environmental racism are burning the West Coast
As the West Coast of the United States continues to burn, the author argues ‘it is imperative for the US government to admit that what has been done up until now, as far as environmental campaigns are concerned, is not enough’. Upon such an admission, she suggests a change in the approach being taken by the government – “finding new, clean and technological solutions to climate change will not be enough if one does not strive for a total reconfiguration of power dynamics and colonial relations”.
The resurgent threat of a “no-deal Brexit” and its dire consequences
While the COVID-19 pandemic may have dominated media coverage and political discussion in recent months, the terms of the UK’s departure from the EU remains a prevalent issue that needs addressing. The author discusses how a no-deal Brexit would impact the UK, arguing that the government ‘should do all they can to ensure they meet the October 31st deadline – or beg for an extension’.
Reimagining domestic violence policy: an abolitionist feminist approach
To the author, “this [the UK] government’s policy on domestic violence amounts to a legislative smokescreen”. How can we overcome this? She argues in favour of the ‘abolitionist feminist approach’ which proposes that ‘we move beyond an oppressive carceral structure and look to create a structure that empowers those who would be victims of violence to escape abusive situations before violence takes place.
Is Trump Justified in Banning TikTok?
Is Trump justified in banning Tiktok? The author argues that while Tiktok ‘does represent an expansion of Chinese ‘self-censorship’ reaching into the United States’, the move is ‘more rooted in Trump’s anti-China rhetoric than in substantiated national security concerns’. Consequently, ‘it is difficult to argue that this justifies the extensive action taken by the president’.
What would a key power change in Belarus signify for its relations with Russia and the European Union?
After Alexander Lukashenko was re-elected to a sixth term in office in an election widely condemned for being neither free nor fair, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the Belarusian opposition leader, has vowed that the country’s ‘revolution’ movement will not give up. As such it begs the question – if political reform is to be successfully obtained as a result of the protests, where does this leave Belarus? The author argues that despite many suggesting it could result in an increased relationship with the EU in favour of Russia, ‘this revolution is not about geopolitics – it is a popular manifestation of a desire for a fair and just democratic system. This has nothing to do with geopolitics – though the West and Russia have tended to try and make yet another internal conflict, about them.
We didn’t consent to murder: how the ‘rough sex defence’ authorised violence against women
The rough sex defence – ‘Despite the continuing movement surrounding women’s sexual liberation, and the increasing awareness and acceptance of different sexual practices, abuse against women is still a prevalent issue’. In this article, the author suggests that the fact that ‘the tabloids plastered Grace Millaine’s (a British backpacker murdered in Auckland in 2018) sexual preferences over their headlines throughout her trial, attempting to ruin her reputation and integrity’ is indicative of a society that somewhat blames female victims of consensual violence during sex for their deaths, and that changes in social attitudes in addition to legislative progress is needed.
Smoke and Mirrors – the reality behind the Israel-UAE peace deal
Is the Israel-UAE peace deal effective in delivering its name? The author suggests that despite its promise, in reality the deal ‘holds no weight’. Labelling it a ‘political sham’, he accuses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being more interested in scoring ‘cheap political points with which he can lengthen his political career, akin to his political counterpart in the US’.
Ultra-nationalism and the Far-Right in Portugal – The Rise of Racist Episodes at Europe’s Door
Can the recent rise of racist episodes in Portugal be accredited to its history as a colonial power? With the colonial period ending in 1975, the author believes ‘the result has been a mixture of resentment and indifference, creating a generalised environment of highly disguised racist ideologies, with minimal resistance or opposition’. Consequently, ‘the dismissal of racial divisions in Portugal has provided a blank space in Portuguese politics for a highly racialised speech, which Chega filled with its charismatic leader, then leading to the consequent validation of ultra-nationalism and conservative ideas of societal organisation’.
How justice in a pandemic could disproportionately affect the BAME community
In his second legal piece, the author notes that ‘the inconvenience of a nationwide lockdown is just the latest chapter in a long saga of misfortune that the criminal justice system has endured’. With the idea of ‘juryless trials’ being floated to speed up the delivery of justice in over 500,000 cases, he highlights how ‘the experiences of a predominantly white judiciary differ greatly from the BAME community’, and why the proposal ultimately causes more problems than it solves.
4th of August 2020: a turning point for the Land of Cedars?
‘In the blink of an eye, the Lebanese were snatched from their relatively normal lives and reminded of the fragility of their country’. In this article, the author suggests that after the August 4th Beirut explosions, the country has reached a political turning point. ’Not only did the tragedy confirm the government’s contempt for its people but it also revealed the Lebanese solidarity and their eagerness to fight for a legitimate and modern democratic system’.
From potty idea to political reality: the Overton Window is broken.
Is there a narrow realm of political possibility that politicians must ensure their policies fit within for them to ensure electoral success? According to the author, ‘With ever-growing internet access, more and more people are exposing themselves to previously inaccessible information and under-represented points of view’. As a result, ‘the window of political possibility is forced wider and wider, until it becomes a redundant, gaping hole in the wall through which any policy can reasonably pass’.
The Great Himalayan Showdown – India’s China Problem
Is it time for India to change the way it conducts foreign policy with China? Neelanjana suggests a switch from its current outlook to a strategy of pursuing ‘proactive diplomacy with its Quad partners in order to counter Beijing’s bellicose behaviour in the region’ of the Line of Actual Control that separates the two countries.
The ‘American Dream’ vs. The ‘American Reality’: The Fight for Civil Rights – The LGBTQ+ Community
In her second piece covering the ’The American Dream vs The American Reality’, the author explores the continued fight the US LGBTQ+ community face for basic rights and equal treatment. In spite of the progress made under the Obama administration, in her words ‘Trump’s transphobic, homophobic and sexist views manifest through legally binding actions to disadvantage LGBTQ+ individuals, contradicting the sense of equality declared through the American Dream ethos’.
‘Celebrity’ whistleblowers and the issue of accountability
Does the media portrayal of intelligence whistleblowers hinder our ability to hold democratic governments to account? In the author’s opinion ‘the information they attempt to expose becomes an afterthought, if it isn’t overlooked entirely’ as media coverage is predominantly focused on ‘the curation of a public persona’ of the whistleblower, diverting much-needed attention away from evidence of illegal or improper conduct.
Analysis: the “R***** Report”
With the ‘Russia Report’ finally being released on Tuesday July 21st, to the author it is apparent that the escalation of tensions between Russia and the UK ‘is already well underway – indeed, it has been for more than a decade’. With Putin’s goal being ’the fostering of division and chaos in the West’, swift government action may be essential for national security.
The canon for justice: radical feminism
How can we deconstruct problematic social structures in modern society? To the author the answer is that it lies in restructuring our education systems. Here she argues that ‘elevating radical feminism from the position of subjugated knowledge will enable a new intellectual hierarchy to infiltrate society and inform our politics’.
Moral high ground: The analysis of philosophy’s use in a COVID society
In this article, the author explores the practical applications of landmark moral philosophical concepts within a COVID marked society.
Why the British justice system continues to fail black women
Just how severe is the issue of misogynoir, misogyny directed towards black women where gender and race both are part of the bias, in the British justice system? The author promotes that ‘The lack of attention focused towards black women’s struggle has normalised violence towards them which undoubtedly influences the minds of those responsible for helping them’.
What ever happened to the “Russia Report”?
Are the British public being prevented from learning the full extent of Russian interference in their democratic voting processes by a Prime Minister who directly benefits from the co-operation and funding Russian oligarchs are providing him? The author thinks the ‘Russia Report’ being produced by Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) ‘has the potential to be explosive’.
Freedom in the Land of the Free
Just how innate is the individual entitlement to freedom in America? According to the author, ‘under the guise of fighting for their freedom, some Americans fight for a particular model of uniquely American freedom advocated and substantiated by propaganda’.
‘Love in the time of COVID’ – How Nicaragua is attempting to hide the virus rather than treat it
In Nicaragua, ‘express burials’ where the fallen victims of COVID-19 are buried as soon as possible, often in the middle of the night, with no filming allowed and only a small number of family members able to attend, are common practice as part of President Daniel Ortega’s bid to downplay the severity of the virus. The author explores the situation in one of Central America’s worst performing economies and whether the handling of the COVID crisis could be a catalyst for widespread political change in the country.
It’s Time to Build, Not Rebuild, American Democracy
What do post-Trump American politics look like? According to the author, not all that different. In this article she argues that the modern history of the Republican Party is such that it is no surprise that Trump has resonated with so many Americans, and Goldwater and Gingrich are to blame.
What Democracy Awaits Us Outside the Doors of Lockdown?
What lies ahead for democracy outside the doors of lockdown? Could the impending economic crisis and the growing inequalities deliver a fatal blow to freedom and fairness? The author looks at how the economic shock of COVID-19 may impact the political landscape and tries to draw lessons from Europe’s turbulent past.
Domestic abuse increases in UK lockdown: How is the government responding?
While lockdown was enforced by the British government in an attempt to keep the public safe, for many staying at home has exposed them to a much greater threat to their safety. The author explores the truth behind the staggering rise in domestic abuse cases in the UK since lockdown began and reminds us how this is an issue that should not be overlooked even in the midst of a pandemic.
Response to the Refugee Crisis during the Pandemic
As the author puts it, ‘the arrival of COVID-19 in the world’s largest refugee camp is a calamity in the making’. With refugees lacking citizenship and governments inadequately protecting their human rights, are they the hardest hit socioeconomic group in this pandemic?
How we can look at the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to fight the climate crisis
The COVID-19 pandemic that brought the world economy to a three-month halt also brought down CO2 emissions to an unprecedented level. Although these numbers might seem significant, the effect of these drops alone is nearly not enough to achieve the 1.5°C target set by the Paris Agreement. So how can we look at the pandemic as an opportunity to step up the fight against the climate emergency? The answer lies in the response to the global economic crisis and in the stimulus packages offered by governments throughout the world.
The ‘American Dream’ vs. The ‘American Reality’: The Fight for Civil Rights – Black Lives Matter
Are we living in the era of the ‘American Dream’, or is the ‘American Reality’ much uglier? The first article of this three part series explores how a history of biased legislation has contributed to institutionalised and inherent racism in American society. This article explores the legalities behind the emancipation of slaves that have come to shape the current Black Lives Movement in the US.
Lessons for a troubled time: Bertrand Russell in the 21st century
Can the wisdom of philosophers from a previous era help us navigate through some of the greatest socio political issues the modern world has faced? Here we explore the value of the work of Victorian author Bertrand Russell and how his outlook is still relevant in overcoming the dilemmas we continue to face today.
When a leader is not a leader for all, are they leading against someone?
What happened to George Floyd was disgusting and outrageous. Human rights cannot be discretionary or put in second place. Human rights cannot be an option. Donald Trump cannot be re-elected.
Giuseppe Conte during COVID-19 pandemic: from hero to zero
Italy was among the first countries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. How has the government responded and what is it doing to face this crisis?
Featured
Missile Envy: A Tale of Nuclear Weapons & Militarised Masculinity
How does the widespread presence of nuclear weapons shape international defence politics? Almost 76 years since the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, Niamh revisits the logic of nuclear deterrence theory and challenges the patriarchal status quo it has been built on.
Justice for Grenfell: Tales of state neglect & community resistance
With four years having passed since the Grenfell Tower fire, the government continues to evade accountability for remediation and safety. Communities continue to resist this intransigence to ensure survival. Katie discusses this tale of state neglect and community resistance.
Is the UN Security Council fit for purpose?
Is the United Nations Security Council fit for purpose? After 70 years of an ever-changing world order, the five main constituents which dominate the Security Council have gradually exposed their inability to maintain international stability and have lost their reputation as “global policemen”. With outdated benefits such as the veto motion obstructing efforts towards alleviating conflict, Henna Moussavi questions the legitimacy of the five core members and their intentions with regards to the Security Council’s mission statement.
Biden’s tax reform: entering an era of economic multilateralism
The race to the bottom presents a failure of our current economic system. In this article, Weronika argues that Biden’s proposal of a corporate tax increase is an inevitable building block necessary for lessening public distrust of major global companies and financing Biden’s bold infrastructure plan. Not only will such a proposal mitigate the impact of tax avoidance among Big Tech economies that has created an unfair economic system in the US, by creating millions of jobs and propelling racial equity, it has the potential to lift the U.S. out of the depths of its devastating COVID-19 economic crisis.
Chinese Hybrid Nationalism: Harnessing public opinion during the COVID-19 pandemic
Every crisis China faces has the ability to strengthen or undermine the grip the Chinese Communist Party has over the state. What was the impact of COVID-19? Eva suggests that over the last year popular distrust and anger has transformed into national solidarity and pride, with party and popular nationalism being the key driver of this process.
Is Trumpism over?
After a rollercoaster four years in office followed by a controversial election defeat one might assume a 74-year-old Donald Trump would retire, taking his grievances with him. Ash Howlett does not quite see it like this. With increasing support from former staff, retention in grass roots support and freshmen Trumpites taking congressional office – Trump is here to stay.
Featured
Missile Envy: A Tale of Nuclear Weapons & Militarised Masculinity
How does the widespread presence of nuclear weapons shape international defence politics? Almost 76 years since the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, Niamh revisits the logic of nuclear deterrence theory and challenges the patriarchal status quo it has been built on.
Justice for Grenfell: Tales of state neglect & community resistance
With four years having passed since the Grenfell Tower fire, the government continues to evade accountability for remediation and safety. Communities continue to resist this intransigence to ensure survival. Katie discusses this tale of state neglect and community resistance.
Is the UN Security Council fit for purpose?
Is the United Nations Security Council fit for purpose? After 70 years of an ever-changing world order, the five main constituents which dominate the Security Council have gradually exposed their inability to maintain international stability and have lost their reputation as “global policemen”. With outdated benefits such as the veto motion obstructing efforts towards alleviating conflict, Henna Moussavi questions the legitimacy of the five core members and their intentions with regards to the Security Council’s mission statement.
Biden’s tax reform: entering an era of economic multilateralism
The race to the bottom presents a failure of our current economic system. In this article, Weronika argues that Biden’s proposal of a corporate tax increase is an inevitable building block necessary for lessening public distrust of major global companies and financing Biden’s bold infrastructure plan. Not only will such a proposal mitigate the impact of tax avoidance among Big Tech economies that has created an unfair economic system in the US, by creating millions of jobs and propelling racial equity, it has the potential to lift the U.S. out of the depths of its devastating COVID-19 economic crisis.
Ukraine: How Russia’s Raucous Resurgence Is Becoming Increasingly Ruthless and Reckless
The recent events in Ukraine have shattered the security architecture of Europe, as the world watches Russia defy all warnings from the West concerning the sovereignty of its smaller neighbour. In this article, Matthew argues that despite the shocking nature of Putin’s attack, it has not come out of nowhere: the invasion is “the latest chapter in Russia’s increasingly ruthless and reckless raucous resurgence
The Spread of Misinformation Reveals Existing Fears and the Polarisation of Society
The extensive spread of misinformation during the pandemic caused chaos, revealing the failure of social media companies to curb the spread of false content. In this article Sharon argues that the nature of algorithms, in addition to cognitive biases that are influenced by social inequalities and xenophobic attitudes, have exacerbated the impact of misinformation. She concludes that addressing the challenge of misinformation “begins with building strong foundations for a secure society
The Precedent Set by Successful Russian Aggression
With Russia invading Ukraine and NATO on standby should Putin’s aggression escalate, the threat of nuclear warfare could become a terrifying reality. In this article, Daniel points out that mutually assured destruction has historically made wars unwinnable. But, he argues, Putin’s recent threat to use nuclear weapons against any state that becomes militarily involved in Ukraine “is a significant challenge to this status quo, with potentially terrifying consequences for global peace”
The Case for the Relevance of Multilateral Summits
With the Covid-19 pandemic forcing much of our lives online, many scholars wondered if diplomacy would also transform into a digital phenomenon. In this article, Eva questions whether multilateral summits are still fundamental to diplomacy, arguing that these in-person occaisons are essential for harmonious international relations as they “trigger the mass public’s attention and can be strategically used as a means of public diplomacy
What could trigger the never-ending adjustment of grip?
Political institutions often delegate authority to regulatory bodies to reap the benefits of their expertise. Yet, this delegation comes with challenges of its own. In this article Kirill discusses two modes of action that politicians can pursue when dealing with regulatory bureaucracies, arguing that balancing regulatory discretion with accountability could “trigger the never-ending adjustment of grips”
Should Bolsonaro’s COVID Policy Be Seen as a Form of Class Warfare?
“Bolsonaro’s deliberate attempt to achieve herd immunity disproportionately affected Brazil’s poor and vulnerable”. With Brazil’s Covid-19 death tally second only to the United States, it is worth questioning what went so wrong and why. In this article, Evan argues that the failure of President Bolsonaro’s pandemic response can be attributed to his own extreme political beliefs – at the expense of the most vulnerable in society.
Is majority rule democratic?
How democratic is majority rule? In this article, Kirill explores the advantages and disadvantages of this form of decision rule, arguing that it could be substituted by consociationalism – all through the prism of Perceval’s quest for the Holy Grail.
Xi the Perpetual Dictator: What does this mean for the West?
With Xi Jinping’s growing grip on absolute power in China, the country seems to be transitioning from a one-party authoritarian state to a personal dictatorship, firmly under Xi’s thumb. This may sound like splitting hairs, but the ramifications are crucial. In this article Matthew demonstrates how Xi’s grip on absolute, and perpetual, power will affect the West, looking at three major sticking points: The Climate Emergency, the stability of Sino-Western relations, and the Taiwan question.
The ‘American Dream’ vs. The ‘American Reality’: The Fight for Civil Rights – Immigrants
The last piece of this three-part series focuses on the mistreatment and detainment of immigrants in the United States. The ‘American Dream’ is founded on principles of providing opportunities for a better lifestyle, yet under the Trump administration, tens of thousands of migrants are detained and mistreated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Party, Plenums, and Perpetuity
“Xi now has authority over the past, present and future of the Party, the state and everyone within”
For a long time, it has been no secret that Xi Jinping’s power within China is largely unrivalled. This article shows this power as being gained through Xi’s gradual expanse of control over party and state institutions, popular policies, and ideological authority through so-called ‘Xi Jinping Thought’. However, the recent ‘historical resolution’ issued in the Central Committee’s Sixth Plenum adds a new dimension to Xi’s power: perpetuity.
Why Ordinary People Should Stop Defending Billionaires
Since the beginning of the pandemic, the collective wealth of the ‘Billion-Dollar Club’ has risen by more than a trillion dollars. Ryan argues that ordinary people should stop championing the uber-rich and start condemning their actions.
Gordon Medusa of Central Europe
The Hungarian right-wing party Fidesz is known for its populist rhetoric and policies which are being echoed within Hungarian society, initiating a domino-effect of spreading cultural grievances and opposition to the liberal values that constitute the founding pillars of European integration.
Kafala in Lebanon: Infinite Sin
Anas Adam tackles the Kafala system in Lebanon, the country’s sponsorship system for migrant domestic workers. He breaks down the system and its practices, arguing that it amounts to modern day slavery, enabling abuse and gross human rights violations. He concludes by considering change, addressing the responsibility of home countries, and examining the realities of reform at a time when Lebanon is on its last legs.
What is Next for the Northern Ireland Protocol?
The Northern Ireland Protocol (NIP) was agreed between the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) in 2019 as the complex mechanism meant to regulate the new border between the two blocs, known as the ‘Irish Sea border’.
The dangerous game of democracy in Belarus
The West must find the seemingly elusive balance between punishment of Lukashenko and protection of the people. If possible, there is a chance for a democratic Belarus. But should the sanctions misfire, it is difficult to see things changing for most Belarussians
The Awakening of a Lion: The Three Tenets of Chinese Power
“China is not rising, as such; it has risen”. Whether we in the West like it or not, China is a global power. To focus on unempathetic and belligerent critiquing of China will only lead to a new Cold War. In order to productively engage and compete with this adversarial powerhouse we must understand the key tenets of its power: historical authority, stability, and prosperity.
Missile Envy: A Tale of Nuclear Weapons & Militarised Masculinity
How does the widespread presence of nuclear weapons shape international defence politics? Almost 76 years since the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, Niamh revisits the logic of nuclear deterrence theory and challenges the patriarchal status quo it has been built on.
Justice for Grenfell: Tales of state neglect & community resistance
With four years having passed since the Grenfell Tower fire, the government continues to evade accountability for remediation and safety. Communities continue to resist this intransigence to ensure survival. Katie discusses this tale of state neglect and community resistance.
Is the UN Security Council fit for purpose?
Is the United Nations Security Council fit for purpose? After 70 years of an ever-changing world order, the five main constituents which dominate the Security Council have gradually exposed their inability to maintain international stability and have lost their reputation as “global policemen”. With outdated benefits such as the veto motion obstructing efforts towards alleviating conflict, Henna Moussavi questions the legitimacy of the five core members and their intentions with regards to the Security Council’s mission statement.
Biden’s tax reform: entering an era of economic multilateralism
The race to the bottom presents a failure of our current economic system. In this article, Weronika argues that Biden’s proposal of a corporate tax increase is an inevitable building block necessary for lessening public distrust of major global companies and financing Biden’s bold infrastructure plan. Not only will such a proposal mitigate the impact of tax avoidance among Big Tech economies that has created an unfair economic system in the US, by creating millions of jobs and propelling racial equity, it has the potential to lift the U.S. out of the depths of its devastating COVID-19 economic crisis.
Chinese Hybrid Nationalism: Harnessing public opinion during the COVID-19 pandemic
Every crisis China faces has the ability to strengthen or undermine the grip the Chinese Communist Party has over the state. What was the impact of COVID-19? Eva suggests that over the last year popular distrust and anger has transformed into national solidarity and pride, with party and popular nationalism being the key driver of this process.
“Cancel Culture”: Why We Must Not Snub Difference of Opinion
To allow cancel culture to coerce people into a consensus obstructs progressive dialogue and transgresses on the democratic freedom of speech.
Is Trumpism over?
After a rollercoaster four years in office followed by a controversial election defeat one might assume a 74-year-old Donald Trump would retire, taking his grievances with him. Ash Howlett does not quite see it like this. With increasing support from former staff, retention in grass roots support and freshmen Trumpites taking congressional office – Trump is here to stay.
How US influence contributed to a modern Haitian uprising
February 2021 saw a fresh political crisis for the nation of Haiti as local strongman Jovenel Moïse arrested a fresh batch of opposition figures, claiming they were undertaking a coup against his administration. What followed after was to be the usual for the Haitian masses as they gathered once more to oppose the hegemonic rule of Moïse. To Sam Glasper, the shooting of two journalists on February 9th in addition to the continuing battles between the masses and the armed might of the intuitions reflect not only the frustration at the rule of the corrupt Moïse but also the American influence within the country.
How do we manage free speech?
While free speech allows ideas to flourish and individual to express themselves freely, has social media, opinion reporting and political tribalism enabled wild and nonsensical conspiracy theories to proliferate the US? Ash Howell believes independent regulators, improvements in education and a process of healing between warring factions must take place to ensure individuals are able to cut through the noise and make independent judgements based on facts. Without this, events like the January 6th insurrection may be replicated in the future.
Eurobonds: A mirage for political unity within the Eurozone
Is the issuing of the join debt instrument ‘Eurobonds’ merely a mirage for political unity within the Eurozone? Suchin I argues that not only will increasing inter-state tension and underlying euroscepticism eventually result in issuance becoming unviable, but that it further empowers populist parties across the continent. Link in bio.
Act Like A Man: Deconstructing Political Gender Biases
The US elections last year may have marked a historic moment for women in politics with Kamala Harris becoming the first woman to be elected vice president, but to Niamh the fight for gender equality in higher office is far from over. She argues that gender biases and leadership stereotypes continue to disadvantage women as “societal constructions of what it means to be ‘masculine’ and ‘feminine’ set the stage for political inequality”.
The Indian Farm Bills: an uninvited step away from sustainable farming
With farmers of India enraged at the BJP’s three proposed farm bills, Ayesha Gidda argues that that ‘the imposing of such statutes marks the beginning of the end of the mandi system and MSPs keeping farmers afloat’. Given the introduction of proposals potentially leaving more than 100 million farmers to fall victim to increasing corporatization, Ayesha delves further into some of the causes of one of the biggest protests of the last decade.
Why Joe Biden isn’t the answer for progressives
Is Joe Biden the answer for progressives? After a turbulent four years many are viewing Biden with rose-tinted spectacles. However, by analysing Biden’s lengthy career in politics we can begin to make predictions about the next four years, and it doesn’t look good. A chequered past on social issues, empty promises on the environment, a mouthpiece for big business and not to mention sexual misconduct allegations; Biden isn’t the answer.
In The Shadow, A Dream: How 250 Million Workers Came To Strike In India
Whilst farmers fight cops in Delhi, tit-for-tat killings between the right and the left escalate in Kerala and Maoists stage an insurgency in Chhattisgarh. Sam Glasper suggests an intensified prolonged class struggle looks likely to grip India as millions go out on strike against the pro-corporate polices of the government. “A long history of class struggle encapsulates the Indian workers movement and its momentum is sure to become a problem for BJP Prime Minister, Narendra Modi”.
Money, Money, Money: The EU at a breaking point
Amidst a ranging pandemic and looming economic downturn, the EU has designed a much-needed recovery package as part of its 2021 budget. However, conflict over rule of law led to a crisis in which Hungary and Poland vetoed the budget. Capucine explores the ominous underlying question that this crisis reflects and that the EU will eventually have to face: how to manage contrasting understandings of democracy within the union, when it is itself built upon the unifying concept of liberal democracy and the rule of law?
Delhi’s Diminishing Dominance: Has India finally lost its strategic clout to China in Nepal?
Does the changing dynamic of the Indo-Nepali relationship cast doubt over India’s influence within South Asia? Neelanjana highlights that while Delhi’s influence remains intact within Kathmandu, by continuing in its attitude towards its smaller neighbour it is committing geo-political hara-kiri given Beijing’s looming presence in the Indian subcontinent.
How long will it be before we see a woman in the top job?
How much longer will we have to wait to see a woman finally reach the Oval Office? While Kamala Harris has broken new ground in the fight for women’s equality by becoming the first female Vice President-elect, Amelia Brennan argues that “in order to address the perpetual dominance of men at the top tier of US politics, we have to address the inequalities embedded within US society as a whole.”
Are Binary Politics Constructive?
Are binary politics still appropriate or even relevant? Obioma explores the extent to which our current political systems are representative of the diversity of opinion present in society and how this affects our views of one another. In her words ‘It is not only easy, but rational, to continue to allow our lives to be ruled by the structures that we are indoctrinated in, but I implore you to take on the personal cost of letting your thoughts and beliefs exist outside of them’.
Justice and Carbon: Why the rich should cut their emissions
Does climate change affect us all equally? Isaac highlights how ‘whilst all of us will be affected, the global poor will suffer the most due to climate change. Rich countries ought to cut their emissions not just in the name of self-preservation, but in the name of justice for the global poor.’ Put simply, he believes that whether or not the wealthy should cut their emissions is not a question of self-preservation or charity to the developing world, but a question of justice.
The Whole World is Watching – The International Reaction to the US Election
As the US presidential race draws to a close, the author examines the global fascination with the conclusion of the election. With virtually all countries having a great deal of practical interest resting on the outcome of the election, some governments have heaped praise on the victor, Joe Biden, while from others the result has prompted mockery. Nevertheless, he highlights that the high level of interest in the outcome of the race demonstrates the US’s continued importance on the world stage.
How has the pandemic hindered the legalization of abortion in Argentina
With the political landscape being dominated by COVID-19, globally we have seen previously pressing issues being relegated to the ‘political backburner’. Evan Lewis examines how the pandemic has affected the movement for legalizing abortion in Argentina. He looks at how attitudes in this majority Catholic country are slowly changing and asks, with the increase of domestic violence as a result of the Virus and subsequent lockdown, whether this change will be too late for many.
Desperately Clinging to Power is the ‘New Normal’
In countries where COVID responses have been poor, does the blame lie with the resilience of the population to make sacrifices for the greater good? Or can the buck stop at the door of failed political leaders? In this article, Yuval explores the ineffective response to coronavirus in Israel. Is it the Isreali cultural archetype of the ‘freier’ that prevented policy from being effective? Or was it the fact that “Netanyahu’s half-hearted appeals to the vaunted sense of Israeli solidarity have failed to contain the communal defiance of the Coronavirus structures across Israel”. To the author, “It seems that as Israelis, our unifying impulse is only effective when the external enemies are our Arab neighbours, and not a microscopic pathogen.”?
Mask politics and contrasting conceptions of freedom
As tensions rise across the world over governments’ differing approaches to dealing with COVID-19, the author argues that cultural differences between Western and Asian societies could explain the contrast in their reactions over mask policies. She proposes that individuals in the West should take this as an opportunity to remember that “a functional nation requires individual sacrifice” and Westerners should work to “rebuild our sense of community before we are required to make even larger sacrifices for it in the future.”
The Hong Kong Protests – Why?
In June 2019, two record-breaking sized protests gripped the streets of Hong Kong over the reading of the extradition bill. Why did this bill trigger an unprecedented response from the public? The author argues that ‘people in Hong Kong see their protected freedoms of speech, assembly and press, as well as the rule of law, being eroded. While tensions were escalated using petrol bombs, lasers, metal weapons, and tear gas, he argues that the true factor intensifying the protests is ‘the continual struggle for a more competitive and responsive government’ within the one country two systems framework.
Climate change and environmental racism are burning the West Coast
As the West Coast of the United States continues to burn, the author argues ‘it is imperative for the US government to admit that what has been done up until now, as far as environmental campaigns are concerned, is not enough’. Upon such an admission, she suggests a change in the approach being taken by the government – “finding new, clean and technological solutions to climate change will not be enough if one does not strive for a total reconfiguration of power dynamics and colonial relations”.
The resurgent threat of a “no-deal Brexit” and its dire consequences
While the COVID-19 pandemic may have dominated media coverage and political discussion in recent months, the terms of the UK’s departure from the EU remains a prevalent issue that needs addressing. The author discusses how a no-deal Brexit would impact the UK, arguing that the government ‘should do all they can to ensure they meet the October 31st deadline – or beg for an extension’.
Reimagining domestic violence policy: an abolitionist feminist approach
To the author, “this [the UK] government’s policy on domestic violence amounts to a legislative smokescreen”. How can we overcome this? She argues in favour of the ‘abolitionist feminist approach’ which proposes that ‘we move beyond an oppressive carceral structure and look to create a structure that empowers those who would be victims of violence to escape abusive situations before violence takes place.
Is Trump Justified in Banning TikTok?
Is Trump justified in banning Tiktok? The author argues that while Tiktok ‘does represent an expansion of Chinese ‘self-censorship’ reaching into the United States’, the move is ‘more rooted in Trump’s anti-China rhetoric than in substantiated national security concerns’. Consequently, ‘it is difficult to argue that this justifies the extensive action taken by the president’.
What would a key power change in Belarus signify for its relations with Russia and the European Union?
After Alexander Lukashenko was re-elected to a sixth term in office in an election widely condemned for being neither free nor fair, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the Belarusian opposition leader, has vowed that the country’s ‘revolution’ movement will not give up. As such it begs the question – if political reform is to be successfully obtained as a result of the protests, where does this leave Belarus? The author argues that despite many suggesting it could result in an increased relationship with the EU in favour of Russia, ‘this revolution is not about geopolitics – it is a popular manifestation of a desire for a fair and just democratic system. This has nothing to do with geopolitics – though the West and Russia have tended to try and make yet another internal conflict, about them.
We didn’t consent to murder: how the ‘rough sex defence’ authorised violence against women
The rough sex defence – ‘Despite the continuing movement surrounding women’s sexual liberation, and the increasing awareness and acceptance of different sexual practices, abuse against women is still a prevalent issue’. In this article, the author suggests that the fact that ‘the tabloids plastered Grace Millaine’s (a British backpacker murdered in Auckland in 2018) sexual preferences over their headlines throughout her trial, attempting to ruin her reputation and integrity’ is indicative of a society that somewhat blames female victims of consensual violence during sex for their deaths, and that changes in social attitudes in addition to legislative progress is needed.
Smoke and Mirrors – the reality behind the Israel-UAE peace deal
Is the Israel-UAE peace deal effective in delivering its name? The author suggests that despite its promise, in reality the deal ‘holds no weight’. Labelling it a ‘political sham’, he accuses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being more interested in scoring ‘cheap political points with which he can lengthen his political career, akin to his political counterpart in the US’.
Ultra-nationalism and the Far-Right in Portugal – The Rise of Racist Episodes at Europe’s Door
Can the recent rise of racist episodes in Portugal be accredited to its history as a colonial power? With the colonial period ending in 1975, the author believes ‘the result has been a mixture of resentment and indifference, creating a generalised environment of highly disguised racist ideologies, with minimal resistance or opposition’. Consequently, ‘the dismissal of racial divisions in Portugal has provided a blank space in Portuguese politics for a highly racialised speech, which Chega filled with its charismatic leader, then leading to the consequent validation of ultra-nationalism and conservative ideas of societal organisation’.
How justice in a pandemic could disproportionately affect the BAME community
In his second legal piece, the author notes that ‘the inconvenience of a nationwide lockdown is just the latest chapter in a long saga of misfortune that the criminal justice system has endured’. With the idea of ‘juryless trials’ being floated to speed up the delivery of justice in over 500,000 cases, he highlights how ‘the experiences of a predominantly white judiciary differ greatly from the BAME community’, and why the proposal ultimately causes more problems than it solves.
4th of August 2020: a turning point for the Land of Cedars?
‘In the blink of an eye, the Lebanese were snatched from their relatively normal lives and reminded of the fragility of their country’. In this article, the author suggests that after the August 4th Beirut explosions, the country has reached a political turning point. ’Not only did the tragedy confirm the government’s contempt for its people but it also revealed the Lebanese solidarity and their eagerness to fight for a legitimate and modern democratic system’.
From potty idea to political reality: the Overton Window is broken.
Is there a narrow realm of political possibility that politicians must ensure their policies fit within for them to ensure electoral success? According to the author, ‘With ever-growing internet access, more and more people are exposing themselves to previously inaccessible information and under-represented points of view’. As a result, ‘the window of political possibility is forced wider and wider, until it becomes a redundant, gaping hole in the wall through which any policy can reasonably pass’.
The Great Himalayan Showdown – India’s China Problem
Is it time for India to change the way it conducts foreign policy with China? Neelanjana suggests a switch from its current outlook to a strategy of pursuing ‘proactive diplomacy with its Quad partners in order to counter Beijing’s bellicose behaviour in the region’ of the Line of Actual Control that separates the two countries.
The ‘American Dream’ vs. The ‘American Reality’: The Fight for Civil Rights – The LGBTQ+ Community
In her second piece covering the ’The American Dream vs The American Reality’, the author explores the continued fight the US LGBTQ+ community face for basic rights and equal treatment. In spite of the progress made under the Obama administration, in her words ‘Trump’s transphobic, homophobic and sexist views manifest through legally binding actions to disadvantage LGBTQ+ individuals, contradicting the sense of equality declared through the American Dream ethos’.
‘Celebrity’ whistleblowers and the issue of accountability
Does the media portrayal of intelligence whistleblowers hinder our ability to hold democratic governments to account? In the author’s opinion ‘the information they attempt to expose becomes an afterthought, if it isn’t overlooked entirely’ as media coverage is predominantly focused on ‘the curation of a public persona’ of the whistleblower, diverting much-needed attention away from evidence of illegal or improper conduct.
Analysis: the “R***** Report”
With the ‘Russia Report’ finally being released on Tuesday July 21st, to the author it is apparent that the escalation of tensions between Russia and the UK ‘is already well underway – indeed, it has been for more than a decade’. With Putin’s goal being ’the fostering of division and chaos in the West’, swift government action may be essential for national security.
The canon for justice: radical feminism
How can we deconstruct problematic social structures in modern society? To the author the answer is that it lies in restructuring our education systems. Here she argues that ‘elevating radical feminism from the position of subjugated knowledge will enable a new intellectual hierarchy to infiltrate society and inform our politics’.
Moral high ground: The analysis of philosophy’s use in a COVID society
In this article, the author explores the practical applications of landmark moral philosophical concepts within a COVID marked society.
Why the British justice system continues to fail black women
Just how severe is the issue of misogynoir, misogyny directed towards black women where gender and race both are part of the bias, in the British justice system? The author promotes that ‘The lack of attention focused towards black women’s struggle has normalised violence towards them which undoubtedly influences the minds of those responsible for helping them’.
What ever happened to the “Russia Report”?
Are the British public being prevented from learning the full extent of Russian interference in their democratic voting processes by a Prime Minister who directly benefits from the co-operation and funding Russian oligarchs are providing him? The author thinks the ‘Russia Report’ being produced by Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) ‘has the potential to be explosive’.
Freedom in the Land of the Free
Just how innate is the individual entitlement to freedom in America? According to the author, ‘under the guise of fighting for their freedom, some Americans fight for a particular model of uniquely American freedom advocated and substantiated by propaganda’.
‘Love in the time of COVID’ – How Nicaragua is attempting to hide the virus rather than treat it
In Nicaragua, ‘express burials’ where the fallen victims of COVID-19 are buried as soon as possible, often in the middle of the night, with no filming allowed and only a small number of family members able to attend, are common practice as part of President Daniel Ortega’s bid to downplay the severity of the virus. The author explores the situation in one of Central America’s worst performing economies and whether the handling of the COVID crisis could be a catalyst for widespread political change in the country.
It’s Time to Build, Not Rebuild, American Democracy
What do post-Trump American politics look like? According to the author, not all that different. In this article she argues that the modern history of the Republican Party is such that it is no surprise that Trump has resonated with so many Americans, and Goldwater and Gingrich are to blame.
What Democracy Awaits Us Outside the Doors of Lockdown?
What lies ahead for democracy outside the doors of lockdown? Could the impending economic crisis and the growing inequalities deliver a fatal blow to freedom and fairness? The author looks at how the economic shock of COVID-19 may impact the political landscape and tries to draw lessons from Europe’s turbulent past.
Domestic abuse increases in UK lockdown: How is the government responding?
While lockdown was enforced by the British government in an attempt to keep the public safe, for many staying at home has exposed them to a much greater threat to their safety. The author explores the truth behind the staggering rise in domestic abuse cases in the UK since lockdown began and reminds us how this is an issue that should not be overlooked even in the midst of a pandemic.
Response to the Refugee Crisis during the Pandemic
As the author puts it, ‘the arrival of COVID-19 in the world’s largest refugee camp is a calamity in the making’. With refugees lacking citizenship and governments inadequately protecting their human rights, are they the hardest hit socioeconomic group in this pandemic?
How we can look at the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to fight the climate crisis
The COVID-19 pandemic that brought the world economy to a three-month halt also brought down CO2 emissions to an unprecedented level. Although these numbers might seem significant, the effect of these drops alone is nearly not enough to achieve the 1.5°C target set by the Paris Agreement. So how can we look at the pandemic as an opportunity to step up the fight against the climate emergency? The answer lies in the response to the global economic crisis and in the stimulus packages offered by governments throughout the world.
The ‘American Dream’ vs. The ‘American Reality’: The Fight for Civil Rights – Black Lives Matter
Are we living in the era of the ‘American Dream’, or is the ‘American Reality’ much uglier? The first article of this three part series explores how a history of biased legislation has contributed to institutionalised and inherent racism in American society. This article explores the legalities behind the emancipation of slaves that have come to shape the current Black Lives Movement in the US.
Lessons for a troubled time: Bertrand Russell in the 21st century
Can the wisdom of philosophers from a previous era help us navigate through some of the greatest socio political issues the modern world has faced? Here we explore the value of the work of Victorian author Bertrand Russell and how his outlook is still relevant in overcoming the dilemmas we continue to face today.
When a leader is not a leader for all, are they leading against someone?
What happened to George Floyd was disgusting and outrageous. Human rights cannot be discretionary or put in second place. Human rights cannot be an option. Donald Trump cannot be re-elected.
Giuseppe Conte during COVID-19 pandemic: from hero to zero
Italy was among the first countries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. How has the government responded and what is it doing to face this crisis?