The viral video of JD Vance’s awkward campaign stop at a donut shop sparked a lively discussion about food as a political prop. In politics, every gesture is scrutinised, every word dissected, and every bite savoured. Yet, despite the high stakes, politicians across the globe continue to venture into the treacherous territory of public dining as part of their electoral charm offensive. The result? Occasionally, it’s less of a gourmet experience and more of a farce.
Continue reading “When Politicians and Food Don’t Mix: A Recipe for Awkwardness”Month: August 2024
Navigating the Backlash Against Mass Tourism: briefing note
In recent years, the growing backlash against mass tourism has become a significant issue for many of the world’s top travel destinations. Cities and countries that have long benefited economically from tourism are now grappling with its negative consequences, from environmental degradation to social tensions. In response, many local governments have implemented measures to curb overtourism, such as banning short-term rentals, imposing higher tourism taxes, and limiting the number of cruise ships allowed to dock. These actions, while necessary to protect local communities and ecosystems, have also brought new challenges, particularly in the realm of local politics.
Continue reading “Navigating the Backlash Against Mass Tourism: briefing note”Bangladesh: situation update
Summary
Bangladesh has experienced significant political unrest and violence, with the following key events have taken place in the past 24 hrs:
- Violence and Clashes: The protests, initially driven by demands for electoral reforms and an end to the quota system for government jobs, have escalated into violent clashes between protesters and security forces. Over 80 people, including at least 13 police officers, have been reported killed in these confrontations. Authorities have imposed a curfew and restricted internet access in an attempt to control the situation.
- Prime Minister Resigns: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and reportedly fled the capital, Dhaka, amid the escalating violence. This development has intensified the political crisis, with opposition parties and protesters calling for the establishment of an interim government to oversee the next elections.
- General Waker-uz-Zaman assumes control: The military, led by General Waker-uz-Zaman, stepped in to restore order, imposing a curfew and restricting internet access. General Waker-uz-Zaman announced the military’s takeover in a press conference, emphasising the need to address the protesters’ demands and promising to stabilise the situation.
Far-right violence in the UK: situation brief
Summary
- Recent riots in England, triggered by a mass stabbing in Southport, have been driven by far-right groups and exacerbated by misinformation and xenophobic rhetoric.
- Public figures associated with the far-right like Tommy Robinson and Nigel Farage have been accused of inflaming tensions, with Farage questioning the authorities’ transparency and Robinson criticising government and police responses.
- Refugees have been targeted in the violence, with far-right protesters attacking hotels housing asylum seekers and using nationalist slogans to incite further unrest. Muslims have also been significant targets, facing Islamophobic slurs and violent actions, particularly outside places of worship during protests.
- Authorities and community leaders are working to restore order and promote social cohesion, but the persistence of far-right rhetoric remains a significant challenge to these efforts.