openDemocracy – Radio Free

Labour donor Lord Alli under investigation over financial interests

Martin Williams — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 14:49:13 +0000

Probe comes one week after openDemocracy revealed Alli had undeclared interests in a tax haven firm

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

Revealed: Anti-immigrant laws leave 1,000s unable to claim asylum

Sian Norris — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 09:51:50 +0000

Conservative law changes meant asylum claims for small boat arrivals stopped last year, leaving thousands in limbo

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

Should politicians be allowed to take gifts and donations?

James Battershill — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 09:28:26 +0000

As Labour donations scandal deepens, openDemocracy readers debate an overhaul of political system to ban donations

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Rights groups urge World Bank not to resume lending to Uganda over anti-gay law

Soita Khatondi Wepukhulu — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 14:24:55 +0000

Civil society organisations say ‘mitigation measures’ proposed by the bank are ‘appallingly weak’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Soita Khatondi Wepukhulu.

Labour donor Lord Alli failed to declare interests in tax haven firm

Martin Williams — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 15:44:13 +0000

Peer who gave Starmer £20,000 to pay ‘for somewhere for son to study for GCSEs’ could earn £425,000 from offshore firm

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

Libya migrant rescue centre set to open despite rights abuses

Lorenzo Bagnoli, Fabio Papetti — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 11:22:48 +0000

The EU-funded centre would coordinate rescues in the Med, but will it give Libya a free pass for violations?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Lorenzo Bagnoli, Fabio Papetti.

Musk’s plan to axe X’s block button is a real win for stalkers and abusers

Sian Norris — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 16:05:24 +0000

Musk’s latest plan will endanger stalking and domestic abuse victims – and make online life harder for all women

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

How nature around the former GDR border changed my mind

James Battershill — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:02:00 +0000

On the latest episode of the Changed My Mind podcast, Georg Baumert discusses how nature helps open your mind, and encouraged him to change his own.

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Leaked emails reveal how Africa became ‘primary target’ of anti-LGBTIQ actors

Sian Norris, Soita Khatondi Wepukhulu — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:20:24 +0000

US and European hate groups and conservatives used disinformation and lobbying to influence gender debate in Africa

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris, Soita Khatondi Wepukhulu.

Why wait until the robots take our jobs? We need a basic income now

Karl Widerquist — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 11:31:50 +0000

AI and tech developments are already pushing people into more precarious work, but UBI could cushion the transition

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Karl Widerquist.

Bolt and Uber drivers: ‘Xenophobic’ prank exposes need to fix gig economy

Soita Khatondi Wepukhulu — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 08:24:52 +0000

Nigerian drivers had no idea why they kept receiving fake trip requests. The answer lay 7,000 kilometres away

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Soita Khatondi Wepukhulu.

Should Labour have taken £4m from hedge fund in a tax haven?

James Battershill — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:52:43 +0000

openDemocracy readers share their thoughts on Labour’s largest-ever donation, made days after election was announced

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Fake news was invented 500 years ago – we must learn from its history

Roman Krznaric — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 14:42:39 +0000

It is no coincidence that Europe’s witch-hunt frenzy followed shortly after the birth of the printing press

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Roman Krznaric.

Labour given £4m from tax haven-based hedge fund with shares in oil and arms

Ethan Shone — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 14:03:26 +0000

Quadrature’s donation is noteworthy not just for being Labour’s largest-ever, but for its timing ahead of election

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Inside the 1970s British Black Panther movement

Farrukh Dhondy — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:10:51 +0000

Indian-born Dhondy reflects on life as a British Black Panther fighting against institutional racism in 1970s London

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Farrukh Dhondy.

Readers’ thoughts on the two child benefit cap

James Battershill — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 16:08:41 +0000

Is the two child cap on benefits fair? openDemocracy readers weigh in

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Lobbyists helped MPs get elected – and you have no right to know about it

openDemocracy RSS — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 10:02:51 +0000

A lobbyist can give a Labour MP £1,499 without it being declared. And that's still true if they give 30 Labour MPs £1,499

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

How misogyny lures men to the far right

Maya Oppenheim — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 08:14:40 +0000

From Andrew Tate to the Charlottesville KKK – how are men’s rights and the far right really connected?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maya Oppenheim.

Cyberboss: Here’s how AI is reorganising the lines of class struggle

Craig Gent — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 14:15:31 +0000

New research into logistics and the gig economy shows workers tracked, instructed and managed by a dystopian world of algorithms

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Craig Gent.

Concerts, clothes and New York breaks: New ministers take £170,000 of gifts

Ethan Shone — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 12:02:30 +0000

Starmer has accepted more than anybody else since start of 2023, raising questions over what donors get in return

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Scrapping the two-child cap would be a start – but still not enough

Ignacia Pinto — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 15:40:00 +0000

If the new government cares about poverty, it must start by rebuilding our broken safety net

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ignacia Pinto.

Starmer’s new immigration bill is just as racist as the Rwanda plan

Julia Tinsley-Kent, Fizza Qureshi — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 14:39:14 +0000

The UK immigration system is racist by design. The Border Security Bill will make it worse

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Julia Tinsley-Kent, Fizza Qureshi.

Starmer’s hints about the budget suggest UK is set for bleak four years

Paul Rogers — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 11:11:47 +0000

Introducing a wealth tax would indicate this is a progressive government. But that seems unlikely

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Disabled people don’t need another inquiry. We need change

Mikey Erhardt — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 10:59:48 +0000

Labour’s woeful offering on social system will mean more people being placed in residential care against their wishes

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Mikey Erhardt.

Readers’ thoughts on Britain’s role in the invasion of Afghanistan

James Battershill — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 08:28:32 +0000

Did Britain blindly blunder into war to impress the US? openDemocracy readers weigh in

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Don’t assume Labour will put time limits on migrant detention

Thom Tyerman, Setareh Ghandehari — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 07:30:54 +0000

The collapse of Defund Hate in the US offers stark lessons to anti-detention campaigners in the UK

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Thom Tyerman, Setareh Ghandehari.

I saw how the US backed Jerusalem’s ethnic cleansing – and Blair looked on

Matt Kennard — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 09:22:27 +0000

An extract from Matt Kennard’s new book, The Racket: Rogue Reporter vs American Imperialism

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Matt Kennard.

What happens in the US could have global implications for abortion

Dr Anu Kumar — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 10:09:15 +0000

What could Project 2025 mean for abortion rights around the world?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Dr Anu Kumar.

Readers’ thoughts on human rights abuses and imprisoned slavery victims

Nandini Naira Archer — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 08:15:34 +0000

Should the EU take a stronger stance on human rights in non-EU countries? openDemocracy readers weigh in

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

How Britain blundered into war in Helmand to please the US

Andrew North — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 11:03:15 +0000

An extract from a new book by Andrew North who spent 20 years in Afghanistan – and was even kidnapped by the Taliban

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Andrew North.

Hundreds of modern slavery victims locked up in England’s prisons

Sian Norris — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 08:21:08 +0000

Exclusive: New immigration laws create ‘hierarchy of victims’ that means many are imprisoned and denied help on release

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

Five things to watch for at this year’s Democratic National Convention

Thomas Gift — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 09:22:03 +0000

From identity politics to Gaza, here are the hot topics for this week’s DNC – and what it means for the elections

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Thomas Gift.

Climate crisis means the future looks grim. But there are reasons for hope

Paul Rogers — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 10:17:47 +0000

A world of devastating weather events, unliveable cities, gross food shortages, and global marginalisation beckons

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Uruguay closes teen care home after openDemocracy reveals neglect

Angelina de los Santos — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 15:17:08 +0000

Uruguay’s child welfare agency cut ties with the centre after we exposed brutality, abuse and sexual exploitation

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Angelina de los Santos.

Riots, protests and Kamala Harris: Readers weigh in on this week’s news

Nandini Naira Archer — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 14:11:13 +0000

Where does Harris stand on Gaza? And what next for Bangladesh after students toppled the prime minister?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

British Muslim MP Naz Shah: We need to amplify minority stories

Naz Shah — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 11:11:26 +0000

I am deeply concerned about the far right attacks. Now is the time to build a truly inclusive society

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Naz Shah.

Why didn’t Ugandan students at Makerere set up encampments for Gaza?

Kirabo Marion — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 10:24:05 +0000

Our university was once the hub for radical politics, but now we're under Museveni’s thumb

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Kirabo Marion.

US elections: Where does Kamala Harris stand on Gaza?

Halah Ahmad — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 10:23:10 +0000

Harris wants to differentiate herself from Biden. But she must move beyond rhetoric and halt all arms to Israel

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Halah Ahmad.

Why Nigeria’s anti-inflation protests are unlikely to lead to any real change

Ayodeji Rotinwa — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 17:12:03 +0000

Nigerians have real reason to protest. But the movement demanding change was unusual – and easily ignored by government

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ayodeji Rotinwa.

‘Worse than business as usual’: EU overlooks Uganda’s attack on human rights

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 16:40:49 +0000

EU official told openDemocracy that country’s rights violations are ‘not widespread’ despite draconian anti-gay law

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu.

Meet the migrants absent from the debate on fascist riots

Aya Aya Khedairi — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 09:20:00 +0000

After racist violence gripped England and Northern Ireland, migrants are shaken and remain on high alert

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Aya Aya Khedairi.

The boy with the bullet wounds: Neglect and brutality in Uruguay’s care homes

Angelina de los Santos — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 12:25:21 +0000

Revealed: Abuse and sexual exploitation allegations at state-contracted centre for minors needing mental health care

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Angelina de los Santos.

Are we headed for all-out war in the Middle East?

Paul Rogers — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:18:30 +0000

Tensions are high and the US has made a move to increase its already substantial military forces in the region

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

How should Starmer end race riots? openDemocracy readers share their thoughts

Nandini Naira Archer — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 10:04:29 +0000

Disagree with an article we’ve published? Have something to say? Get in touch! We want to hear your views!

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

Racist riots are nothing new – they’re part of the fabric of British society

Nandini Naira Archer — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 15:29:01 +0000

UK’s first professor of Black studies, Kehinde Andrews, on what’s wrong with the conversation around racist riots

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

Students toppled the prime minister, but what next for Bangladesh?

Nandini Naira Archer — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 03:42:23 +0000

After Sheikh Hasina fled the country, protesters are dreaming of the democratic future they want

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

Revealed: Mexico’s big businesses bankroll major anti-abortion network

Diana Cariboni — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:41:08 +0000

Mexican women have a legal right to safe abortions. Some of the country’s richest families and firms are trying to block it

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Diana Cariboni.

As the far right riots in the UK, India offers a cautionary tale

Aman Sethi — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 16:24:17 +0000

An anti-Muslim pogrom laid the grounds for India’s slide into fascism. The UK can still go down a different path

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Aman Sethi.

Great Replacement & boogaloo – the ideology driving the modern far right

Sian Norris — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:52:11 +0000

As Islamophobic and racist violence grip the UK, we look at the modern far right’s beliefs and racist aims

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

How will Israel’s recent assassinations affect war in Gaza?

Paul Rogers — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:44:54 +0000

Netanyahu will undoubtedly claim the killings show victory is still achievable in Gaza. But is that true?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

European diplomats’ talks with Hamas must go beyond hostage negotiations

Catherine Charrett — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 08:49:00 +0000

Hamas is open to both a militarised and a diplomatic approach. Taking the group seriously could stop the violence

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Catherine Charrett.

This week’s reader comments: Time to abolish the IMF and UK royal family

Nandini Naira Archer — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 08:37:27 +0000

Disagree with an article we’ve published? Have something to say? Get in touch! We want to hear your views!

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

Revealed: Corporate lobbyists were at heart of Labour’s election campaign

Ethan Shone — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 21:10:39 +0000

Lobbyists described work for Labour – which was not declared to authorities – as ‘great for future relationships’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Inside the Westminster networking events where lobbyists and politicians mix

Ethan Shone — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 13:59:31 +0000

No 10 refused to say who attended a Downing Street business reception. So openDemocracy found out

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Home Office bungling, US election, Labour sell outs: This week’s reader comments

Nandini Archer — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 08:16:40 +0000

Want to add your voice to the conversation? Comment below or get in touch via email or social media!

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Archer.

King Charles’ property empire earns £334,000 from housing benefit

Martin Williams — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 15:53:59 +0000

Exclusive: Crown Estate makes record profits after issuing evictions, selling houses and cashing in on benefits

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

Missionary charged with sex crimes tries to legalise homosexuality in Malawi

Josephine Chinele — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 14:17:20 +0000

LGBTIQ activists in Malawi are unhappy that their rights campaign has been joined up with that of alleged sex offender

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Josephine Chinele.

Let’s abolish the colonial IMF on its 80th birthday

Arthur Larok — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:03:21 +0000

From Kenya to Pakistan, protesters want the International Monetary Fund to stop exploiting countries in debt crisis

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Arthur Larok.

US voters want change, Biden’s exit hasn’t fixed that

Aman Sethi — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 13:26:40 +0000

Communities ravaged by neoliberal capitalism want real change. Why do they think Trump is the man to deliver it?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Aman Sethi.

How to fix the UK’s dark money problem

Elspeth Berry — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 09:57:55 +0000

This should be a priority for the new UK government – and here's how it can do it

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Elspeth Berry.

Judge rules Oxford University’s mysterious £10m donor will remain secret

Jenna Corderoy — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 09:53:00 +0000

openDemocracy loses fight for transparency over controversial donation to fund new research centre at the university

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jenna Corderoy.

Will Labour tackle the climate crisis?

Paul Rogers — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 08:22:36 +0000

Starmer is unlikely to bring radical change in most policy areas. But on the climate, there is some cause for optimism

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

The army of private sector secondees who helped Labour win

Ethan Shone — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:57:40 +0000

Private firms have given Labour £1.8m worth of secondments and pro-bono work since 2022. What do they get in return?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Join the conversation: Readers’ thoughts on Big Pharma and broken prisons

Nandini Naira Archer — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 08:15:04 +0000

Plus, should Georgia pivot away from Russia? And what does devastation in Gaza mean for Starmer?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

Government fails to monitor firms with £4bn contracts to house asylum seekers

Mark Wilding, Harriet Clugston, Indra Warnes — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 20:59:27 +0000

Revealed: Investigation finds Home Office has no complete record of companies housing almost 100,000 asylum seekers

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Mark Wilding, Harriet Clugston, Indra Warnes.

The start of NHS privatisation: How Paul Foot shone a light on New Labour

Margaret Renn — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 11:07:06 +0000

Britain’s top investigative journalist, who died 20 years ago this week, was suspicious of New Labour. Was he right?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Margaret Renn.

Millionaire whose firm won £40m PPE contract sexually assaulted staff

Martin Williams — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 16:02:26 +0000

Revealed: Chief executive attended work party weeks after being found guilty of assaulting three employees

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

How Big Pharma preys on poor countries – and patients pay the price

Juliet Ferguson, Eurydice Bersi, Maxence Peigné — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 10:25:27 +0000

New investigation reveals unequal access to life-saving meds across Europe thanks to system that favours the rich

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Juliet Ferguson, Eurydice Bersi, Maxence Peigné.

In a pivotal election, Georgia’s opposition must look past Russia vs EU

Hans Gutbrod — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 11:13:01 +0000

October’s elections could shake eastern Europe. Opposition parties must offer proper statehood and competent governance

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Hans Gutbrod.

Devastation in Gaza poses an increasingly serious problem for Starmer

Paul Rogers — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 11:44:11 +0000

Starmer’s stance on Gaza has already reduced support for Labour – and that will only worsen in the coming months

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Join the conversation: Readers’ thoughts on the UK election results

Nandini Naira Archer — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 09:35:14 +0000

What does Starmer’s victory mean for the left? What will Sunak’s legacy be? Every Friday we share your views

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

Nearly 100 prison staff sanctioned for ‘inappropriate’ relationships

Sian Norris — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 10:31:13 +0000

‘Overcrowded jails and inexperienced guards’ behind increase in relationships between staff and inmates, experts warn

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

‘Women have to suffer’: Going undercover in the incel movement

Sian Norris — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 08:35:02 +0000

For her book on the global attack on reproductive rights, Sian Norris joined incel forums. What she found was disturbing

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

Lovebombed by lobbyists: How Labour became the party of Big Business

Ethan Shone — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 15:32:02 +0000

An openDemocracy investigation reveals the secretive mass lobbying campaign that shaped Starmer's policies

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

‘How do we control Palestinians? We make them feel like we are everywhere’

Petra Molnar — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 09:43:38 +0000

Chilling new book shows how states like Israel control borders using inhumane, experimental surveillance technology

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Petra Molnar.

What does Starmer’s victory mean for the left?

Martin Williams — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 13:31:56 +0000

Green and independent candidates inflicted a series of blows against the Labour Party

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

Rishi Sunak set to preside over a historic defeat. What will his legacy be?

Ben Worthy — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 21:15:08 +0000

As exit polls show defeat for PM, will he be remembered as a failure, a PM who inherited a mess… or just not at all?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ben Worthy.

Revealed: The secretive group taking MPs on trips to Israel

Martin Williams — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 13:54:56 +0000

Source said visit organised by ELNET for Labour staffers had ‘clear agenda’ to shape policies of next government

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

Labour’s biggest corporate donor Ecotricity accused of ‘greenwashing’

Martin Williams — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:16:11 +0000

Exclusive: Energy firm making ‘misleading’ claims about ‘neutralising’ gas with carbon credits

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

Labour offers no hope to migrants locked up without end date

Cetta Mainwaring — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 13:26:55 +0000

Whoever forms the next government is unlikely to end indefinite detention – despite inherent cruelty of practice

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Cetta Mainwaring.

How will Labour’s new desire to be the party of war shape British politics?

Iain Overton — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 09:43:23 +0000

What’s the difference between the defence policies of Labour and Conservatives? Spoiler alert: there isn’t one

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Iain Overton.

What would a sensible security policy look like for the UK?

Paul Rogers — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 09:40:55 +0000

Research shows the public is most worried by domestic threats to the UK. Here's how we could tackle them

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Why I left the Labour Party after 40 years to stand as an independent

Emma Dent Coad — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 11:14:36 +0000

We’re at a dangerous moment in history. We need community advocates to speak out against the march to the right

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Emma Dent Coad.

Why I’m standing against Keir Starmer in his constituency

Andrew Feinstein — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 11:04:16 +0000

Starmer is offering more of the same. I’m fighting for an economy that works for people, not corporations

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Andrew Feinstein.

A new environmental movement is quietly shaking up UK politics

Nicholas Beuret — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 10:24:21 +0000

After years of neglect, rural voters are abandoning the Tories and Labour to back a radical green conservation movement

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nicholas Beuret.

Tories lacking transparency: 14 years of undermining Freedom of Information

Jenna Corderoy — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:27:35 +0000

As openDemocracy publishes new report on state of FOI, here’s how successive prime ministers have increased secrecy

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jenna Corderoy.

Milei’s ‘twin extractivism’ reforms threaten Argentina and the planet

Cecilia Rikap — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 16:03:08 +0000

Argentina’s debt will grow as Big Tech extracts data and knowledge, forcing state to abuse nature to pay it off

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Cecilia Rikap.

The lobbyist connecting Labour’s top team with arms firms and energy bosses

Ethan Shone — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 11:03:09 +0000

While fighting raged in Gaza in October, top Labour figures met with the CEO of a major supplier of arms to Israel

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Join the conversation: Readers’ thoughts on MPs’ donations and manifestos

James Battershill — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 08:06:35 +0000

Every Friday we share some of your thoughts on our work. Love an article? Disagree with it entirely? Get in touch!

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Government secrecy still rife as departments consistently breach FOI deadlines

Jenna Corderoy — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 11:15:26 +0000

openDemocracy’s new report reveals that public bodies regularly fail to respond to FOI requests before legal deadline

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jenna Corderoy.

Labour has learned nothing from Tory mistakes on migration

Zoe Gardner — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:59:47 +0000

Greens, SNP and Lib Dems all propose largely decent immigration policies. Labour should read them

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Zoe Gardner.

Who’s funding your MP? Here’s how to find out

William Rogers — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:09:03 +0000

We trawled through 20 years of data to build a website that allows anyone to quickly see the interests of their MP

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by William Rogers.

Farage, Le Pen, Meloni: Europe’s establishment is ushering in the far right

Michael Chessum — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 12:34:39 +0000

D-Day marked 80th anniversary of end of fascism in Europe. Yet the heirs of Mussolini and Pétin are gaining power

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Michael Chessum.

Uganda’s U-turn on refugee policy leaves Sudanese asylum seekers stranded

Richard Sultan — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 11:27:08 +0000

People fleeing war in Sudan feel stuck after Uganda announced change to ‘open door’ policy amid funding crisis

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Richard Sultan.

Uganda’s U-turn on refugee policy leaves Sudanese asylum seekers stranded

Richard Sultan — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 11:27:08 +0000

People fleeing war in Sudan feel stuck after Uganda announced change to ‘open door’ policy amid funding crisis

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Richard Sultan.

The UK doesn’t work for Disabled people. Neither party will change that

Mikey Erhardt — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 07:32:12 +0000

So far, we’ve heard more about Starmer and Sunak’s parents than the UK’s 16 million Disabled people

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Mikey Erhardt.

Readers’ thoughts: Is it irresponsible to vote independent in a two-horse race?

James Battershill — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 08:07:03 +0000

When the choice is Trump v Biden or Sunak v Starmer, would you vote independent? oD readers share their thoughts

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Brazilian rape victims who have abortions may face longer in jail than rapists

Diana Cariboni — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 10:24:55 +0000

Proposed law would further limit access to abortion for the 75% of reported rape victims in Brazil who are under 18

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Diana Cariboni.

A Labour win won’t stop shadowy right-wing think tanks influencing policy

Ethan Shone — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 09:26:13 +0000

Revealed: Labour frontbenchers form close links with think tank behind Sunak’s draconian policing and protest laws

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Project 2025: The US far-right plan to undermine democracy and rights globally

Diana Cariboni — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 09:15:17 +0000

Influential think tank wants next president to roll back rights in US and abroad – and has drafted policies to do so

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Diana Cariboni.

Labour and Tories fail to commit to exposing universities’ secret donors

Jenna Corderoy — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 11:30:11 +0000

Labour didn’t respond to an open letter on universities’ shady donations, while Tories shrugged off responsibility

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jenna Corderoy.

Will Labour’s left-wing purges affect its ability to govern?

Paul Rogers — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 09:41:31 +0000

Keir Starmer spent the start of the election campaign ridding the party of its left-wingers. Will he regret it?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Join the conversation: Readers’ thoughts on Keir Starmer

Aman Sethi — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 10:03:50 +0000

Every Friday we share some of your thoughts on our work. Love an article? Disagree with it entirely? Get in touch!

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Aman Sethi.

One seat, two candidates accused of buying their chance to become its MP

Ethan Shone — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:28:27 +0000

How a Labour lobbying boss and a Tory nepo-baby ‘paid’ their way onto the ballot in rural Suffolk

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

A war on two fronts: How the British military fails women who report rapes

Sian Norris — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:16:12 +0000

Exclusive: Pervasive misogyny means 77% of troops accused of rape are found not guilty in military courts

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

The next government must dismantle our racist asylum system

Aslı Tatlıadım — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 07:01:06 +0000

People of colour face disproportionate abuse in the UK’s asylum system. This racial injustice has to be addressed

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Aslı Tatlıadım.

New reports of harassment emerge against sociologist Boaventura de Sousa Santos

openDemocracy authors — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 13:27:08 +0000

Women told Brazilian news site of alleged sexual harassment and abuse by the renowned professor, who denies wrongdoing

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy authors.

The left has a choice: unite behind Starmer or face Farage rising to power

Paul Mason — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:23:38 +0000

Democracy is in peril, conservatism is merging with the far right. Labour is our chance for hope

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Mason.

Gaza vs Ukraine: A double standard that has broken the world order

Chelsea Ngoc Minh Nguyen — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:47:05 +0000

What kind of geopolitics are needed to overcome today’s challenges?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chelsea Ngoc Minh Nguyen.

Inside the lobbying campaign to force Labour’s next U-turn

Ethan Shone — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 10:02:05 +0000

How the City fought back against Labour’s plan to close a £600m loophole, plus more Labour lobbyists candidates

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Is Shell’s exit from Nigeria a front to dodge legal responsibilities?

Andy Rowell, James Marriot — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 10:16:48 +0000

The oil giant is selling its Niger Delta subsidiary – but lending the new owners the money for the purchase

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Andy Rowell, James Marriot.

Keir Starmer is a liar. We deserve so much better – and we can get it

Samuel Sweek — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 09:52:39 +0000

Whatever you do this election, don’t give up hope. The status quo is depressing – but there are real alternatives

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Samuel Sweek.

Biden’s ceasefire in Gaza is unlikely despite Israel’s fall in global standing

Paul Rogers — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:55:54 +0000

Israel is defiant in the face of increasing criticism from Westerners who may have previously defended the country

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Minister who owns beef farm approved £5m ad campaign promoting red meat

Ben Webster — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 09:38:46 +0000

REVEALED: Public body’s drive to up red meat sales failed to mention health risks, despite privately acknowledging them

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ben Webster.

I pulled out of Hay Festival over its links to Baillie Gifford. And it worked

Noreen Masud — Fri, 31 May 2024 15:22:27 +0000

While my day at Hay last year was one of the best of my life, I couldn’t ignore its links to Israeli war crimes

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Noreen Masud.

Join the conversation: Readers’ thoughts on a Labour government

James Battershill — Fri, 31 May 2024 09:58:13 +0000

Every Friday we share some of your thoughts on our work. Love an article? Disagree with it entirely? Get in touch!

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Labour, the vampire kangaroo and a very ‘spooky’ dinner engagement

Ethan Shone — Thu, 30 May 2024 13:36:09 +0000

We reveal how an infamous asset manager and an intelligence-linked consultancy have been cosying up to Labour

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

The next prime minister could fix the housing crisis. Here’s how

Polly Neate — Thu, 30 May 2024 08:38:01 +0000

New analysis reveals the depth of the housing emergency – but politicians could still easily fix it if they wanted to

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Polly Neate.

My family are trapped in Rafah. We urgently need a UK visa scheme

Doaa S.A. — Wed, 29 May 2024 11:41:13 +0000

My relatives – those who have survived – are in hell in Gaza. Why won’t the UK rescue them as it did Ukrainians?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Doaa S.A..

Don’t listen to latest Tory claims – slavery and empire made Britain rich

Sanjay Seth — Tue, 28 May 2024 09:23:03 +0000

The right wing is obsessed with ‘wokery’, but until it addresses Britain’s past, it cannot prepare for the future

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sanjay Seth.

Join the conversation: Readers’ thoughts on Palestine, prisons and ecocide

James Battershill — Fri, 24 May 2024 13:59:32 +0000

We want to hear from you! Every Friday we’ll share some of the interesting comments we've received over the past week

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

I escaped an authoritarian regime. I don’t feel safer in the UK

Aso Mohammadi — Tue, 21 May 2024 14:19:15 +0000

The Rwanda deportation plan is designed to keep asylum seekers living in a state of fear – we must resist it

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Aso Mohammadi.

Latin America shows why ecocide must be an international crime

Rodrigo Lledó — Tue, 21 May 2024 13:55:56 +0000

Every state has an interest in prosecuting those who destroy our planet – we must ensure there are no ‘safe havens’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Rodrigo Lledó.

Join the conversation: Readers’ thoughts on Labour, Gaza and tomato paste

James Battershill — Fri, 17 May 2024 11:22:54 +0000

We want to hear from you! Every Friday we’ll share some of the interesting comments we've received over the past week

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Battershill.

Labour accused of ‘racism’ after ‘disgusting’ treatment of Palestinian man

Martin Williams — Thu, 16 May 2024 11:02:27 +0000

Revealed: Party refused to disclose what personal information it has on ex-supporter whose mother was killed in Gaza

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

Yes, HMP Wandsworth is dangerous – most prisons in England and Wales are

Sian Norris — Tue, 14 May 2024 10:33:25 +0000

Ministers told to improve state of London prison – but our investigation shows its appalling conditions are the norm

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

Labour is headed for electoral triumph – then woe in government

Paul Rogers — Mon, 13 May 2024 11:26:42 +0000

The party may have a 30-point lead in the polls, but its lack of real offering to voters will soon cause problems

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

A new and silent land grabbing is underway – we must stop it

Ian Scoones, Angela Serrano — Thu, 09 May 2024 12:35:52 +0000

Need to reverse climate crisis is causing agricultural land in the Global South to be sold off to the highest bidder

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ian Scoones, Angela Serrano.

Why I’ve called for a global strike for Gaza this Friday

Ousman Noor — Thu, 09 May 2024 11:30:38 +0000

Disgusted by Israel’s latest war crimes? Inspired by the student encampments?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ousman Noor.

Israel’s war on Gaza could spark protests that shape entire region

Paul Rogers — Wed, 08 May 2024 09:25:37 +0000

While media focus is on pro-Palestine protests in the US, anger in North Africa and Western Asia could boil over

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Israel’s war on Gaza could spark protests that shape entire region

Paul Rogers — Wed, 08 May 2024 09:25:37 +0000

While media focus is on pro-Palestine protests in the US, anger in North Africa and Western Asia could boil over

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Dirty, dangerous, and failing: Crisis in British prisons revealed

Sian Norris — Mon, 06 May 2024 06:01:07 +0000

openDemocracy's exclusive data analysis exposes systemic problems, described as ‘shameful’ by ex-prisons minister

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

You can stop the Rwanda raids. Here’s how

Zrinka Bralo — Fri, 03 May 2024 08:20:12 +0000

As people face raids and deportation to Rwanda this week – we must be there for them, like the UK was there for me

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Zrinka Bralo.

Revealed: ‘Wild West’ for personal data undermines UK human rights

Jenna Corderoy — Wed, 01 May 2024 13:24:22 +0000

Asylum seekers and trafficking victims among individuals hit by failures to provide copies of personal data

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jenna Corderoy.

openDemocracy South American reporter wins prestigious Uruguay press award

Diana Cariboni — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 14:00:27 +0000

Angelina de los Santos won national press award for reporting on police failures to investigate cases of missing women

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Diana Cariboni.

MPs urge action over ‘woeful lack of transparency’ in universities

Jenna Corderoy — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 12:42:28 +0000

Politicians call for an end to secret donations, following an investigation by openDemocracy

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jenna Corderoy.

UK professor condemns own university over collaboration with oil giant

Ben Webster — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:27:50 +0000

Southampton University slammed after openDemocracy uncovered its involvement in Exxon’s ‘greenwashing’ project

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ben Webster.

‘Infringing our rights’: Nigerian nurses sue over effort to stem ‘brain drain’

Saint Ekpali — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:18:36 +0000

New guidelines require newly trained nurses to work in Nigeria for two years after 42,000 left country since 2021

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Saint Ekpali.

Nigerian woman faces jail for giving tomato paste bad review on Facebook

Saint Ekpali — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:14:43 +0000

Chioma Okoli was arrested after claiming puree had too much sugar – raising fears over freedom of speech

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Saint Ekpali.

Threat of Israel-Iran war fades – but danger is unchanged for Gazans

Paul Rogers — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:01:35 +0000

Attention has returned to atrocities Israel is inflicting on Palestinians, but Biden still won’t call for ceasefire

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

The fate of LGBTIQ+ Ghanaians is in the hands of a court they don’t trust

Delali Adogla-Bessa — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:02:50 +0000

Lives of queer communities in Ghana hang in the balance as they await Supreme Court’s ruling on draconian new bill

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Delali Adogla-Bessa.

Cubans face endless misery amid dire food and power shortages

Rut Diamint, Laura Tedesco — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:35:22 +0000

Protests and mass exodus reveal Cubans’ mistrust of Communist rulers – and highlight revolution’s failure

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Rut Diamint, Laura Tedesco.

Conspiracies and US cash: The fight to centre abortion in UK’s culture wars

Sian Norris — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 11:01:41 +0000

A right-wing political and media ecosystem pushing a US-style anti-abortion agenda is gaining traction in the UK

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

“Its a trap”: Anti-LGBTIQ law in Uganda upheld but court makes concession for healthcare

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 13:54:06 +0000

Queer people and health providers remain at risk of being punished for receiving or providing health services.

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu.

Government admits it broke law to allow gamebird shooting

Ben Webster — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:04:42 +0000

Ministers ignored advice about the release of pheasants and partridges after meeting a pro-shooting organisation

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ben Webster.

Labour in ‘cash for access’ scandal over meetings with £150k donor

Ethan Shone — Sat, 13 Apr 2024 06:01:07 +0000

Labour top brass including Keir Starmer gave Bloomberg ‘exclusive’ look at party's financial plan at private meeting

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Trump has just hung an albatross around his neck – abortion

Chrissy Stroop — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 12:15:23 +0000

The Republican presidential hopeful has flip-flopped on support for choice – and ended up pleasing no one

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Do we really need a Global Commission on Modern Slavery?

Ayushman Bhagat, Joel Quirk — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 07:01:07 +0000

Theresa May’s attempt at a legacy project won’t save anybody from ‘modern slavery’. But since it’s here, we have a few suggestions

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ayushman Bhagat, Joel Quirk.

Academics call for transparency over university funding

Martin Williams, Jenna Corderoy — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 19:02:01 +0000

Open letter follows openDemocracy investigation exposing the scale of dark money in higher education

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams, Jenna Corderoy.

‘Are we not human?’ Uganda’s LGBTIQ community reels as anti-gay law upheld

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 16:03:39 +0000

Campaigners and analysts say decision, which leans on US repeal of Roe v Wade, is riddled with ‘homophobic tropes’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu.

Israel has rewritten the laws of war – but is no closer to destroying Hamas

Paul Rogers — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 15:42:30 +0000

Six months into Israel’s horrific attack on Gaza, more than 30,000 people are dead while Hamas is still active

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

How a court ruling on a company name threatens LGBTIQ rights in Uganda

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 13:39:05 +0000

A leading LGBTIQ group has been told it can’t register its name in yet another attack on Uganda’s queer community

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu.

Accusing Trump of blasphemy is just as bad as his $59.99 Bible

openDemocracy RSS — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 18:02:21 +0000

Even Christians who oppose Trump helped enable the attack on Transgender Day of Visibility that came from his campaign

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

Women fight back as Milei’s government tries to starve their soup kitchens

Angelina de los Santos — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 15:33:34 +0000

Community cooks are keeping ‘common pots’ alive despite dwindling supplies and a campaign to paint them as corrupt

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Angelina de los Santos.

EU-migration by way of Russia: is Moscow or Brussels to blame?

Siraaj al Mughamir, Leon Spring — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 07:01:07 +0000

Fortress Europe’s walls are thickest and deadliest on the southern borders. Some migrants are heading north instead

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Siraaj al Mughamir, Leon Spring.

Oil giant admits it needs a ‘magic wand’ to keep green pledges

Ben Webster — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 16:01:06 +0000

ExxonMobil accused of greenwashing over claims that its ‘carbon capture’ project is reducing emissions

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ben Webster.

Theresa May leaves legacy of cruelty for domestic workers

Francesca Humi — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:51:50 +0000

May’s heartless policies will go on tormenting migrant domestic workers long after she steps down as MP

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Francesca Humi.

A dying baby, a Trump tweet: Inside network setting global right-wing agenda

Sian Norris — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 16:14:09 +0000

Leaked emails from the Agenda Europe network reveal how its members collaborated daily to roll back abortion and LGBTQ+ rights

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sian Norris.

Local councils call bailiffs over debts of just £3

Martin Williams, Andrew Kersley — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 21:39:21 +0000

The cost of living crisis has meant record profits for bailiff firms, with bosses taking pay rises up to 367%

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams, Andrew Kersley.

Ministers let P&O owner back into bed months after sacking scandal

Adam Bychawski — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:35:26 +0000

UK promised DP World ‘wouldn’t get away with’ firing 800 workers illegally. But months later, the love affair resumed

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Republicans’ anti-LGBTQ vitriol is working – don’t take our rights for granted

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 18:54:17 +0000

Human rights can be fragile in the face of a dedicated, moral-panic-driven assault

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Sian Berry: ‘I wish Greens had been able to deal with transphobia sooner’

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:10:04 +0000

The candidate to replace Brighton MP Caroline Lucas is planning for a Green future – but is her party united?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Twitter broke Ghana’s labour law and the government did nothing

Kofi Yeboah — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 12:43:50 +0000

At the dawn of Elon Musk’s takeover, Twitter fired staff in Ghana without severance. Why didn’t the government intervene?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Kofi Yeboah.

Eviction of heavily pregnant refugee halted after community campaign

Anita Mureithi — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:21:31 +0000

Tower Hamlets Council will review its decision to send a woman 250 miles from her family weeks before her due date

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Ghanaian government accused of climate hypocrisy with new emissions tax

Delali Adogla-Bessa — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 16:47:26 +0000

Critics say new carbon tax will unfairly punish ordinary citizens and fail to have any impact on climate crisis

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Delali Adogla-Bessa.

Breaking the Silence: Abortion Rights in Kenya

openDemocracy RSS — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 15:42:04 +0000

WATCH: Our documentary investigates Kenya’s hidden crisis, claiming the lives of more than 2,000 people a year

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

Champions of Uganda’s anti-gay law blame ‘homosexuals’ for corruption scandal

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 13:43:25 +0000

The Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament has been accused of involvement in huge cash transfers to private accounts

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu.

Jet-setters, partygoers and double-jobbers: Who’s given what to MPs in 2024

Ethan Shone — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 12:06:55 +0000

A closer look at the hospitality, gifts and donations received by Labour and Conservatives so far this year

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Did crying modern slavery in Leicester benefit the workers?

Pankhuri Agarwal, Vivek Kotecha, Nandita Dutta — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 10:10:33 +0000

Without alternatives or safety nets to fall back on, closures of fast-fashion factories left workers worse off

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Pankhuri Agarwal, Vivek Kotecha, Nandita Dutta.

Heavily pregnant refugee to be evicted and sent 250 miles away from family

Anita Mureithi — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 18:20:51 +0000

Ayana is booked to have a baby in London in two weeks. Tower Hamlets Council is sending her to live in Middlesbrough

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

With just three weeks, did Wales’ Covid inquiry answer the key questions?

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:12:42 +0000

Mark Drakeford and his cabinet rattled through topics like devolution, Eat Out to Help Out, care homes and lockdown

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

What are donor-advised funds – and what’s the problem with them?

Chuck Collins, Helen Flannery — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:01:26 +0000

DAFs channel huge amounts of cash to ‘culture war’ groups – anonymously. Why do people get tax breaks for using them?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chuck Collins, Helen Flannery.

What are donor-advised funds – and what’s the problem with them?

Chuck Collins, Helen Flannery — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:01:26 +0000

DAFs channel huge amounts of cash to ‘culture war’ groups – anonymously. Why do people get tax breaks for using them?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chuck Collins, Helen Flannery.

Welsh government had ‘sloth-like urgency’ when Covid hit, says bereaved group

finlay johnston — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:44:45 +0000

Outgoing first minister Mark Drakeford was also accused of being dismissive during his evidence

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

The ‘world’s coolest dictator’ dreams of a Bitcoin utopia. But there’s a price

Juan Elman — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 12:40:45 +0000

Many Salvadorans have a different story to tell about the ‘Bukele miracle’ – so why did they vote to re-elect him?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Juan Elman.

It was ‘policy’ not to let Wales go further than UK on Covid, claims Drakeford

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 16:51:51 +0000

Welsh first minister clashes with inquiry chair over Treasury emails regarding ‘firebreak’ lockdown

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

I’m an NHS children’s doctor. Our housing system is driving a national health emergency

Amaran Uthayakumar-Cumarasamy — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 16:30:53 +0000

Children I treat tell me it’s ‘raining inside’ their homes. But damp and mould are just the tip of the iceberg

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Amaran Uthayakumar-Cumarasamy.

Mark Drakeford: Wales should have taken ‘more stringent action’ in pandemic

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 13:52:52 +0000

The outgoing first minister said with hindsight there are ‘many things’ he would have done differently

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Where Labour and the Tories got their money from in 2023

Ethan Shone — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 12:58:39 +0000

Labour’s cash from private donors now dwarfs donations from unions, while the Tories got their biggest bung ever

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Biden must not let Trump frame the ‘immigration debate’

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 11:59:53 +0000

Democrats must not try to compete with the hate and fear-based politics of Donald Trump and the Republican party

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Kampala wants to build a ‘smart city’. Female vendors are paying the price

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:59:23 +0000

Hawkers in Uganda’s capital say enforcement officers are a menace. Now they’re fighting back – in court

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu.

Will abandoning left-wing voters backfire for Keir Starmer?

Paul Rogers — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 14:41:50 +0000

Labour leader’s reluctance to differ from Tories on policy or Gaza sets stage for progressive independent candidates

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

UK government made Wales feel like ‘second class citizens’ during pandemic

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 13:40:35 +0000

Rishi Sunak’s refusal to help fund an early firebreak in Wales was ‘a disappointment’, the Covid inquiry heard today

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Conservative Party took £1.3m from donor group linked to Israeli settlements

Martin Williams — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:34:44 +0000

Amnesty International says Rishi Sunak must review donations from JCB and its directors after our findings

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

Wales ‘unlikely’ to have approved of Eat Out to Help Out – had it been asked

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 17:07:46 +0000

Vaughan Gething becomes the latest senior figure to speak out against Rishi Sunak’s flagship scheme

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

How the UK government rebranded protest as extremism

Anita Mureithi — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:12:42 +0000

Daughter of terror attack victim Makram Ali says politicians are ‘fuelling fire’ by equating Muslims with extremism

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

New guidelines for schools ‘encourage discrimination’ against trans students

Lou Ferreira — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 13:13:03 +0000

Teachers and LGBTQ+ groups urge public to respond to consultation, which closes tomorrow

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Lou Ferreira.

Wales’ former health minister ‘embarrassed’ his Covid WhatsApps are missing

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 12:12:43 +0000

Vaughan Gething also called Boris Johnson ‘scatty, incoherent and rambling’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Kenyan women are denouncing femicide: will anyone listen?

Omolara Oriye — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 13:18:06 +0000

The East African country is experiencing an epidemic of gender-based violence that is rooted in colonialism

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Omolara Oriye.

Emily Thornberry: Labour’s pre-election meetings with lobbyists to stay secret

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 12:36:19 +0000

Voters will have no idea who has influenced Keir Starmer’s policies, shadow minister told openDemocracy conference

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Wales imposed different Covid rules for the sake of it, says Tory MP

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 15:45:01 +0000

Ex-Wales minister Simon Hart U-turned on his previous claims that there were ‘valid reasons’ for Wales’ divergence

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Welsh government ‘shocked’ when UK opened its own testing centre in Cardiff

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:29:34 +0000

The Covid inquiry has heard evidence of a breakdown in the relationship between Welsh and UK leaders

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Argentina’s 8M feminist strike: Women are protesting cuts and hunger

Angelina de los Santos — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:02:40 +0000

Feminists are uniting on International Women's Day to protest economic violence inflicted by new president Javier Milei

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Angelina de los Santos.

Labour puts lobbyists on the ballot – and big business is the winner

Ethan Shone — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:01:06 +0000

Prospective MPs with lobbying day jobs are introducing their clients to senior Labour figures – and boasting about it

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

The Budget is great for landlords but a disaster for renters

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 18:04:29 +0000

Amid a cost of living and homelessness crisis, how could Jeremy Hunt completely ignore renters?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Covid inquiry hears how Welsh councils were shut out of emergency planning

James Harrison — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 18:00:29 +0000

The Covid inquiry had a ‘deja vu’ moment, hearing calls for more focus on local government in the UK’s next emergency

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Illegitimate Supreme Court is paving the way for Trump’s return

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 17:57:02 +0000

Trump is on course for another election showdown with Biden. And our ‘apolitical’ justices are helping him

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

‘Politics could trump public safety’: Welsh health chief’s Covid warning

James Harrison — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 13:58:17 +0000

The Covid-19 inquiry was shown warnings from a Public Health Wales boss sent before lockdown even began

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

A human smuggler’s love story

Siraaj al Mughamir, Leon Spring — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 07:01:07 +0000

Unable to marry in Morocco, and unable to get to Europe via Turkey, this couple became smugglers to pay the bills

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Siraaj al Mughamir, Leon Spring.

Welsh health chiefs get off with minimal scrutiny in rapid-fire mini-inquiry

Laura Oliver — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 17:55:53 +0000

What could have been a full Welsh inquiry has been crammed into just a few hearings. The result is frustrating

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Exclusive: Met Police sacks just 5 firearms officers despite 2,000 complaints

Nandini Naira Archer, Sam Gelder — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 22:01:07 +0000

Campaigners say new data shows notorious gun squad officers act as ‘law unto themselves’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer, Sam Gelder.

Firebreaks and face coverings: Did Wales confuse public by going it alone?

Laura Oliver — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 18:00:29 +0000

Chief medical officer tells UK Covid-19 inquiry that breaking rank with rest of UK may have been counterproductive

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

The Labour Party has more influence over a ceasefire in Gaza than it claims

Paul Rogers — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 13:59:27 +0000

A ceasefire seems unlikely, despite claims from Joe Biden last week. But Keir Starmer’s support could change that

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Wales’ scientific advisers ‘surprised’ Boris Johnson didn’t lock down earlier

Laura Oliver — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:44:36 +0000

Top scientists tell Covid inquiry they expected the prime minister to announce a UK-wide lockdown on 12 March 2020

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

700 Afghans ‘lost’ by Home Office could face Windrush-style deportations

Adam Bychawski — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:09:15 +0000

Government’s poor data management could lead to repeat of Windrush scandal, warns report by sacked inspector David Neal

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Braverman’s consultation on anti-protest laws was ‘only open to police’

Anita Mureithi — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:32:08 +0000

High Court told government only sought feedback from people it knew would agree with its controversial changes

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

How the Tories drove Britain’s local services into bankruptcy

Adam Bychawski — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 22:01:07 +0000

Councils provide social care, schools and housing. And half of them are about to run out of money

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Wales’ top scientist implied Covid was ‘someone else’s problem’, inquiry hears

James Harrison — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 18:10:48 +0000

Peter Halligan ‘could and should have done more’, another scientist in devolved administration told Covid inquiry

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Covid inquiry: Top scientist defends ‘England-centric’ data

James Harrison — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:00:42 +0000

UK’s Covid-19 inquiry discusses whether Wales’s handling of the pandemic was affected by a focus on England

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‘Utterly shameful’: Suspended Labour politician slams Starmer’s Gaza stance

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 22:01:08 +0000

Four London councillors have been disciplined by their local party after calling for a ceasefire

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Hypocrite Republicans likely to bend rules on foetuses having ‘rights’

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 18:40:56 +0000

Right-wing Christians appear confused over own beliefs after court ruling led Alabama clinics to stop offering IVF

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Hypocrite Republicans likely to bend rules on fetuses having ‘rights’

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 18:40:56 +0000

Right-wing Christians appear confused over own beliefs after court ruling led Alabama clinics to stop offering IVF

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Welsh government said more action on Covid in care homes wouldn’t ‘add value’

James Harrison — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 17:07:10 +0000

UK Covid inquiry heard of commissioner’s ‘anger’ after Welsh deputy health minister rejected call for more action

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Protest isn’t harassment, says group suing UK government over law change

Anita Mureithi — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:57:20 +0000

Human rights group Liberty says spotlight on MPs’ safety has seen Tories ‘vilify’ Palestine marchers

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Welsh government to face questions over delay bringing in Covid restrictions

James Harrison — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:45:21 +0000

‘Confusion’ over pandemic rules either side of Anglo-Welsh border among issues raised as UK Covid inquiry restarts

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Applications sought for non-executive directors of openDemocracy

openDemocracy RSS — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:48:14 +0000

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

My friend died trying to get to England. Now I know why

Leon Spring — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:01:06 +0000

I’ve lost multiple friends to EU border violence. How many more must die before our policies change?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Leon Spring.

‘Generally… competent’: We asked young Keir Starmer fans to explain his appeal

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 22:01:07 +0000

Jeremy Corbyn drew fresh-faced crowds at Glastonbury and beyond. But his successor has younger fans too – sort of

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Welsh government advisers ‘systematically’ deleted texts, Covid inquiry hears

finlay johnston — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 16:56:52 +0000

Welsh ministers were also slammed by Covid bereaved for deleting texts and failing to establish independent inquiry

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

Home Office ‘did not discuss’ Islamophobia risk in wake of Hamas attacks

Ramzy Alwakeel, Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 18:32:30 +0000

Government spoke about threat of antisemitism but did not consider making equivalent warning about anti-Muslim hate

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ramzy Alwakeel, Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Revealed: Deliveroo encouraged restaurants to call police on strikes

Anita Mureithi — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 13:52:15 +0000

Food delivery app accused of using ‘deliberately inflammatory’ language after police ‘disrupted’ London strike

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Crotone disaster a year on: EU still making the same mistakes

Frey Lindsay — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 11:45:43 +0000

A year ago 100 people drowned off the Italian coast. It was a tragedy waiting to happen, and it will happen again

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Frey Lindsay.

Nigerian students who fled war in Ukraine are being told to leave Europe

Ope Adetayo — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 17:28:21 +0000

Overseas students in Ukraine were granted a two-year stay in the EU when Russia invaded. Now their time is running out

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ope Adetayo.

Nigerian students who fled war in Ukraine are being told to leave Europe

Ope Adetayo — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 17:25:27 +0000

Overseas students in Ukraine were granted a two-year stay in the EU when Russia invaded. Now their time is running out

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ope Adetayo.

Nigerian students who fled war in Ukraine are being told to leave Europe

Ope Adetayo — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 17:25:27 +0000

Overseas students in Ukraine were granted a two-year stay in the EU when Russia invaded. Now their time is running out

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ope Adetayo.

‘Small boat’ pilot Ibrahima Bah faces life in jail. He’s a scapegoat

Danai Avgeri — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 06:01:06 +0000

Those who drive boats are often simply the poorest people on board. Those really at fault still walk free

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How Keir Starmer placed his political image over the lives of those in Gaza

Adam Ramsay — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 14:10:56 +0000

Parliament descended into chaos over a ceasefire vote that the Labour leader reportedly claimed would ‘endanger’ MPs

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Ramsay.

Why the anti-trans movement is inseparable from the anti-abortion movement

Chrissy Stroop — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 13:57:14 +0000

The transphobes who put a target on the back of Nex Benedict, who was beaten to death, are a threat to everyone

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

‘Your borders, our dead’: remembering 25 years of victims in Calais

Maël Galisson — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 09:54:47 +0000

At least 391 people died on the UK-French border between 1999 and 2024. Their family and friends call for justice

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

Britain wants to ban boycotts of Israel. Does that mean they’re working?

Nandini Naira Archer — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 14:04:45 +0000

The Tories want to stop public bodies engaging in ‘BDS’ campaigns – but that’s unlikely to stop grassroots organisers

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

Migrant suicides in Calais: a border designed to create despair

Maël Galisson — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:02:00 +0000

Pushed past their limits, these migrants took their own lives at the border between the UK, France and Belgium

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

I am facing my second no-fault eviction in two years. Renting is broken

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 11:02:30 +0000

Four years after ministers promised to ban Section 21 evictions, I am once again being kicked out of my home

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

The path to the ‘small boats’ crisis is littered with past death

Maël Galisson — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:40:23 +0000

Fortifications elsewhere have made ‘small boats’ the best bet for migrants crossing the channel.

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

Expanding the UK military won’t tackle the biggest threat to security

Paul Rogers — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 15:34:07 +0000

The climate crisis is the greatest challenge facing all nations, and it won’t be solved by recruiting more reservists

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

‘Just horrific’: Work on the front line of Britain’s poverty crisis

Anonymous — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 14:40:02 +0000

I’m an adviser for Citizens Advice in Newcastle. This is how bad the cost-of-living crisis has got

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anonymous.

Labour bars press from secretive lobbying event at Scottish party conference

Ethan Shone — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 13:43:35 +0000

Exclusive: Party has refused to provide a list of sponsors and attendees at Glasgow forum for ‘high-level’ discussions

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

The return of the US right’s satanic panic is more worrying than it sounds

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:29:21 +0000

Two states’ moves to ban satanic displays are reminiscent of moral panic used to criminalise LGBTQ people in 1980s

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

UK accused of being ‘complicit’ in Gaza deaths after giving Elbit new contract

Nandini Naira Archer, Ethan Shone — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:01:05 +0000

Revealed: Fresh wave of public cash handed to Israeli arms maker whose weapons are used for ‘genocide’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer, Ethan Shone.

Tory planning reform may have cost England 25,000 affordable homes

Adam Bychawski — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 16:29:43 +0000

Government wants to allow more office-to-home conversions despite finding majority were poor quality

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Men’s Catholic order gave secret millions to ‘deceptive’ anti-abortion centres

Diana Cariboni, Mónica Cordero, Angelina de los Santos — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:28:31 +0000

Revealed: Tax filings show Knights of Columbus ploughed at least $10.8m into ‘crisis pregnancy centres’ in six years

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Diana Cariboni, Mónica Cordero, Angelina de los Santos.

Experts demand safe routes to UK after 400 people die at the border

Cameron Thibos, Melissa Pawson — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 14:49:52 +0000

Revealed: Average of one death a month for past 25 years despite government spending £800m to stop Channel crossings

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Cameron Thibos, Melissa Pawson.

Has the UK ever managed to control Channel crossings?

Lucy Mayblin — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 09:17:17 +0000

Two decades of deals and hundreds of millions of pounds, but the UK hasn’t ever stopped crossings – or deaths

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Lucy Mayblin.

UK border crossings: 20 years of dying in lorries but still ‘no change’

Maël Galisson — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 09:09:19 +0000

People have been convicted for the deaths of migrants in lorries, but people continue to die in them

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

UK won’t say when or if it will restart aid to Gaza despite reports of famine

Adam Ramsay — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 15:19:34 +0000

Aid is suspended amid allegations about UNRWA. There is no such suspension of arms exports despite evidence of genocide

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Ramsay.

The government’s insulting Disability Action Plan won’t deliver any change

Mikey Erhardt — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:20:22 +0000

Ministers are patting themselves on the back for pulling together a list of vague ideas and research proposals

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Mikey Erhardt.

Police violence ‘rarely punished’ at France and Belgium border to UK

Maël Galisson — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 09:28:13 +0000

Migrants trying to reach the UK have been shot, beaten and refused medical care by police. Many never get justice

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

Almost 10,000 social rent homes were lost last year in England

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 15:04:55 +0000

More social rent homes were sold or demolished than built last year, new government figures show

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Watchdog urged to probe Labour’s failure to declare value of HSBC donation

Ethan Shone — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 22:01:07 +0000

Party accused of breaching Electoral Commission rules by failing to publish value of staffer seconded from banking giant

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

The next battle in US’s crisis of democracy may be over trans Americans’ IDs

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:55:08 +0000

Florida’s move to stop trans people having correct gender on driving licences may lead to clash with federal government

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Arrest rate at ‘openly criminal’ Palestine protests is lower than Glastonbury

Nandini Naira Archer — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 13:34:40 +0000

Braverman’s call for ‘hate marches’ to be banned comes as data shows scant evidence of alleged wrongdoing

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Naira Archer.

‘Reduced to a brawl’: punitive killings in Calais overlooked

Maël Galisson — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 09:18:02 +0000

Ethnic rivalries are often blamed when migrants get killed on the border. But sometimes it’s a war over turf

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

Israeli government’s lies about Gaza shouldn’t be a surprise

Paul Rogers — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 12:01:08 +0000

Lying is what many powerful states routinely do, particularly in wartime. But at some point, reality will intrude

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Drivers said Eurotunnel ‘a picture of war’ amid migrant deaths

Maël Galisson — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 09:27:23 +0000

Despite fences and even moats, dozens of people have died trying to get to the UK via the Eurotunnel

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

For asylum seekers, religious conversion is an obstacle course, not a loophole

Daniel Sohege — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 16:10:35 +0000

Clapham attack suspect Abdul Ezedi’s Christian conversion is under scrutiny. But faith can make asylum claims harder

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Daniel Sohege.

Top uni accused of fuelling racist abuse of Black colleague who condemned Israel

Anita Mureithi — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 14:15:17 +0000

University of St Andrews accused of ‘accepting false allegations’ against rector that sparked abusive comments

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Texas abortion ban harms healthcare even for those who want to be pregnant

Kendall Turner — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 12:56:54 +0000

Strict laws against pregnancy termination in the US state are limiting care for cancer patients and IVF recipients

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Kendall Turner.

The silent serial killer: 391 deaths in 25 years at the UK border

Maël Galisson — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 10:57:00 +0000

391 people died at the France-Belgium-UK border between 1999 and 2024. openDemocracy and Les Jours investigate

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

UK-France border: dying by the ferries at the Port of Calais

Maël Galisson — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 10:56:50 +0000

Hundreds died trying to reach the UK in the last 25 years. Many of them lost their lives in this busy ferry port

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Maël Galisson.

Home Office blames Windrush victim, 87, for not appealing his UK ban

Anita Mureithi — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 15:54:45 +0000

Reynold Simon-Thompson has to raise thousands of pounds to launch a legal challenge despite Home Office admission

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Yes, Republican states are now starting to emulate the Civil War-era south

Chrissy Stroop — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:05:48 +0000

The Texas governor rejecting federal immigration laws has echoes of the Confederate states

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Finance firms gave Labour £2m in two years before banker bonuses U-turn

Ethan Shone — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 13:52:29 +0000

Exclusive: Labour’s ‘love letter to the City’ policies come after influx of cash and donations in kind from sector

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Tory minister Alister Jack admits deleting WhatsApps sent during pandemic

finlay johnston — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 13:40:19 +0000

The Covid inquiry has been hindered by the deletion of texts sent by those in government, campaigners say

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

Kenyan women demand an end to femicide as deaths surge

Mukanzi Musanga — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 12:39:14 +0000

At least 21 women were killed in the East African country last month, yet politicians and police continue to victim blame

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Mukanzi Musanga.

How followers of TB Joshua’s megachurch are attempting to silence his victims

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu, Madeleine Jane — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 09:46:06 +0000

YouTube and Apple have acted on our reports of abusive content, but other major platforms have remained silent

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu, Madeleine Jane.

Nicola Sturgeon: Scotland should have locked down two weeks earlier

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 16:14:11 +0000

The former first minister also denied having a political agenda in her management of the pandemic

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Sturgeon admits deleting WhatsApps – as inquiry is shown recovered messages

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:27:49 +0000

Former first minister denied wanting to keep secrets as exchange with Liz Lloyd reveals ‘crisis of decision-making’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Business as usual for EU and Azerbaijan amid Nagorno-Karabakh ‘ethnic cleansing’

Lucy Martirosyan, Siranush Sargsyan — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 16:04:17 +0000

EU’s ‘concern’ for ethnic Armenians comes after it signed multi-billion-euro deal with country that persecuted them

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Lucy Martirosyan, Siranush Sargsyan.

Minutes missing from Scottish government’s key Covid meetings

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 15:17:59 +0000

Ex-finance chief Kate Forbes said she was ‘surprised’ that record keeping was missing from ‘Gold Command’ meetings

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Home Office had secret policy to deny trafficking victims their right to stay

Adam Bychawski — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 14:46:01 +0000

Suella Braverman and Priti Patel ignored High Court ruling that gave victims leave to remain

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

UK housing minister makes false claim about ‘increase’ in social homes

Ruby Lott-Lavigna, Sam Gelder — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 14:43:23 +0000

Lee Rowley appeared to confuse affordable homes and social homes, then wrongly said the number had gone up

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna, Sam Gelder.

Scottish deputy first minister ‘deleted material’ for 17 years

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 14:23:22 +0000

John Swinney reveals he actively deleted WhatsApps but claimed all key information was put ‘on the official record’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

YouTube removes official channel of TB Joshua’s megachurch

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu, Madeleine Jane, Margaret Coker — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 18:08:57 +0000

The platform acted after oD reported abusive content targeting survivors of the Synagogue Church of All Nations

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu, Madeleine Jane, Margaret Coker.

Climate sceptic and Liz Truss ally behind pro-vape campaign

Adam Bychawski — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 17:10:55 +0000

Brexit campaign group has spent £363,320 on ads against proposals to limit the sale of vapes

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Hancock: Scotland should focus on ‘fat-fighting’ and let Westminster handle Covid

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 13:24:27 +0000

WhatsApp messages reveal tension between UK government and Scottish government over pandemic response

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Ex-Labour chief who tried to ‘bring Corbyn down’ now runs PR for Rwanda deal

Adam Bychawski — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 16:26:18 +0000

Harry Burns defended Rwandan government after it blocked a journalist from speaking to refugees

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Israeli nationals on trial over protest at Elbit UK’s head office

Tom Wall — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 11:38:02 +0000

Case against dissidents for damage to HQ of Israel-linked arms company is thought to be first of its kind in Britain

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Humza Yousaf: Scottish government discovered UK Covid policy via the news

finlay johnston — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 17:53:06 +0000

Scotland’s first minister also said information would often arrive ‘minutes before the meeting’

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Suicides in prisons in England and Wales rose by almost a quarter last year

Nandini Archer — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:36:00 +0000

Campaigners fearful for well-being of detainees as incidents of self-harm also increased by 63% in women’s prisons

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Sturgeon called Johnson ‘f***ing clown’ in private WhatsApps

finlay johnston — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 11:30:54 +0000

Sturgeon’s chief of staff Liz Lloyd tells Covid inquiry trying to engage with UK prime minister was ‘pointless’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

Home Office evicts hundreds of asylum seekers from hotel with days’ notice

Anita Mureithi — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 10:52:17 +0000

Some families have lived in the hotel for two years but will now be forced to move hundreds of miles

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Exclusive: Rwandan homes praised by Braverman ‘won’t go to asylum seekers’

Adam Bychawski — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 22:01:06 +0000

‘Beautiful’ flats that home secretary said would house deported asylum seekers have been sold, developers say

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No evidence that fines reduced Covid cases in Scotland, police adviser says

finlay johnston — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 18:10:51 +0000

A policing expert has slammed Priti Patel’s claims that fining people for lockdown breaches helped stop virus’s spread

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He fled war in Sudan. Now the UK doesn’t believe he’s a kid

Monica Montero — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:41:52 +0000

The Home Office guesses asylum seekers’ ages using ‘inaccurate and unethical’ tests. These are the consequences

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Monica Montero.

He fled war in Sudan. Now the UK doesn’t believe he’s a kid

Monica Montero — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:41:52 +0000

The Home Office guesses asylum seekers’ ages using ‘inaccurate and unethical’ tests. These are the consequences

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Monica Montero.

He fled war in Sudan. Now the UK doesn’t believe he’s a kid

Monica Montero — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:41:52 +0000

The Home Office guesses asylum seekers’ ages using ‘inaccurate and unethical’ tests. These are the consequences

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Monica Montero.

What cable news channels get wrong about the Republican primaries

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 12:02:57 +0000

Trump will win. Despite the televised pageantry, there’s no competition – and no ‘normal’ either

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

For South Africa, defending Palestine is personal

Niren Tolsi — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:04:04 +0000

South Africa’s case against Israel at the ICJ has restored pride among its people

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Torture victims being housed on Bibby Stockholm in possible breach of rules

Ben Smoke — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 22:01:07 +0000

Revelation comes weeks after death of Leonard Farruku on board the controversial asylum barge

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ben Smoke.

Were vital Covid WhatsApps deleted to avoid Freedom of Information rules?

James Harrison — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:47:20 +0000

Evidence seen by the inquiry shows senior Scottish figures reminding each other to delete communications

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

When far-right ideas become mainstream, it’s people of colour who suffer

Shabna Begum — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 11:42:28 +0000

The Tories and Labour competing over hardline immigration policies only helps to mainstream far-right ideas

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Shabna Begum.

Priest, 73, among climate activists made to wear GPS tags for years

Anita Mureithi — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 22:01:06 +0000

Just Stop Oil member Tim Hewes can’t lead midnight mass thanks to the ankle tag – despite not yet having faced trial

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Medical chief who broke lockdown rules excused from Covid inquiry evidence

James Harrison — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 17:45:48 +0000

Catherine Calderwood won’t give evidence on the Scottish government’s Covid response ‘due to ill health’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

‘Hope this isn’t FOI-able?’ Scottish health chief defends deleting WhatsApps

James Harrison — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 14:20:50 +0000

Exchanges among Scotland’s top medical advisers have shed more light on controversial advice to clear chat logs

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

The dizzying tale of Uganda’s latest ‘ex-gay’ campaigner

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 11:58:34 +0000

Elisha Mukisa ended up in jail thanks to the Anti-Homosexuality Act he helped get passed. So why does he still back it?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu.

The dizzying tale of Uganda’s latest ‘ex-gay’ campaigner

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 11:58:34 +0000

Elisha Mukisa ended up in jail thanks to the Anti-Homosexuality Act he helped get passed. So why does he still back it?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu.

Elbit Six: Retrial for Palestine activists who shut down arms factory

Anita Mureithi — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 14:31:30 +0000

It comes after jurors failed to reach a verdict in December

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Scottish government recommended deleting WhatsApps during pandemic

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 13:14:14 +0000

Messages from senior civil servants show recommendations to colleagues to ‘delete this thread’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Scotland ‘waited too long’ to test patients discharged to care homes for Covid

Laura Oliver — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 18:24:01 +0000

Care home deaths soared as Holyrood took two months to introduce testing for outgoing hospital patients, inquiry hears

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Exclusive: Tory MP earns £900 an hour from arms firm run by bribery suspect

Ethan Shone — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:46:30 +0000

Labour accuses Mark Pritchard of bringing Parliament into disrepute over job with North Macedonian company

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

Exclusive: Tory MP earns £900 an hour from arms firm run by bribery suspect

Ethan Shone — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:46:30 +0000

Labour accuses Mark Pritchard of bringing Parliament into disrepute over job with North Macedonian company

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ethan Shone.

LISTEN: Airport cops interrogate UK teen over Palestine protests

Nandini Archer — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 22:01:05 +0000

Rights group Liberty ‘extremely concerned’ as counter-terror police grill family about attending marches in London

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Archer.

‘Safe’ Rwanda is refusing LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, Home Office was told in 2022

Adam Bychawski — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 19:11:01 +0000

Government was officially warned of difficulties faced by LGBTQ+ asylum seekers two years ago

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Limits of devolution and austerity were ‘lethal’ for Scotland during pandemic

Laura Oliver — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 17:30:50 +0000

UK Covid inquiry heard how Scottish workers suffered due to cuts that left public services ‘ill-equipped’ for crisis

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Limits of devolution and austerity were ‘lethal’ for Scotland during pandemic

Laura Oliver — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 17:30:50 +0000

UK Covid inquiry heard how Scottish workers suffered due to cuts that left public services ‘ill-equipped’ for crisis

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Limits of devolution and austerity were ‘lethal’ for Scotland during pandemic

Laura Oliver — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 17:30:50 +0000

UK Covid inquiry heard how Scottish workers suffered due to cuts that left public services ‘ill-equipped’ for crisis

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Will climate engineering really save us? Do me a favour

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 17:24:05 +0000

Tech-utopian hero worship is one of the social scourges of our time

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Baby hospitalised six times due to damp and mould in London flat

Anita Mureithi — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 17:03:20 +0000

Lambeth Council will now review the ‘hazardous’ conditions the family has been ‘trapped’ in

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Romany Gypsy woman takes government to court over ‘discriminatory’ policing

Sam Gelder — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 15:53:29 +0000

Lawyers say 2022 Policing Act ‘criminalises an entire way of life’ by handing officers more powers to target camps

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sam Gelder.

Elbit Six: Palestine activists who shut down factory could face fresh trial

Anita Mureithi — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 13:53:58 +0000

Jurors last month couldn’t decide whether activists were guilty over shutdown of Elbit Systems operations in the UK

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Met Police chief apologises for unlawful eviction of homeless people

Sam Gelder — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 13:42:17 +0000

Mark Rowley has said sorry for the incident in Camden that saw people’s tents destroyed

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sam Gelder.

Scottish government failed to ‘effectively consult’ marginalised groups on Covid

Laura Oliver — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:17:31 +0000

Needs of ethnic minorities, elderly and disabled people in Scotland were not fully considered, Covid inquiry to hear

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Kids referred to counter-terror police amid crackdown on Palestine support

Nandini Archer — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 12:53:00 +0000

Advocacy group CAGE says more than 100 schoolchildren have come forward in two months over cases of “harsh repression”

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Archer.

Tabloid zeal for bombing the Middle East misses that times are changing

Adam Ramsay — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 15:49:28 +0000

Papers are trying to stir up enthusiasm for Britain’s time-old tradition of bombing Arabs, but is public mood shifting?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Ramsay.

openDemocracy appoints Aman Sethi as editor-in-chief

openDemocracy RSS — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 15:48:38 +0000

The award-winning reporter, author and HuffPost editor is to lead our major independent journalism organisation

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

Woman, 69, injured after being pushed by police officer at Palestine march

Anita Mureithi — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 12:13:59 +0000

‘I'm your typical granny figure, there was no way I was in any way threatening’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Job vacancy: Operations coordinator

openDemocracy RSS — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:09:13 +0000

openDemocracy is looking for a highly organised and strong communicator to support our brilliant operations team at a time of growth

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

Post Office: Tory-donating Fujitsu director was rewarded with government job

Adam Bychawski — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:18:12 +0000

Simon Blagden, part of Fujitsu UK leadership team during much of the scandal, now oversees £5bn broadband programme

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Revealed: Environment Agency invested £15m in ‘forever chemical’ firms

Andrew Kersley — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 22:01:06 +0000

Taxpayers’ money pumped into companies that produce PFAS, despite health and environmental warnings

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Andrew Kersley.

Anybody who values democracy must stand up to attacks on trans rights

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 12:45:22 +0000

Republicans will ramp up politics of moral panic as election nears, fearing threat to white supremacist, patriarchal order

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Refugee ‘sanctuary’ councils invest pension funds in Israel-linked arms firms

Anita Mureithi — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 11:34:09 +0000

It comes as MPs vote on the ‘anti-boycott bill’, which could ban councils from divesting for ethical reasons

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

LGBTQ+ asylum seekers ‘at risk’ if UK declares India and Georgia ‘safe’

Nandini Archer — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 10:42:27 +0000

Advocacy groups blast move as ‘dangerous’, pointing out dozens fled the two countries last year

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Archer.

‘Abusive’ legacy of Nigerian megachurch boss lives on from Lagos to London

Rael Ombuor, Ayodeji Rotinwa, Madeleine Jane — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 22:01:07 +0000

How former disciples of megachurch leader TB Joshua are amplifying his claims of spiritual healing to millions

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Rael Ombuor, Ayodeji Rotinwa, Madeleine Jane.

‘Abusive’ legacy of Nigerian megachurch boss lives on from Lagos to London

Ayodeji Rotinwa, Madeleine Jane — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 22:01:07 +0000

How former disciples of megachurch leader TB Joshua are amplifying his claims of spiritual healing to millions

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ayodeji Rotinwa, Madeleine Jane.

Nigeria’s most famous evangelical leader TB Joshua accused of sexual abuse

openDemocracy RSS — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 09:18:18 +0000

openDemocracy first looked into allegations of abuse by Christian leader TB Joshua in 2021

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

Home Office refuses to set up Ukraine-style visa scheme for Palestinians

Adam Bychawski — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 17:15:56 +0000

The government said it has ‘no plans’ to waive fees or tests to help Palestinians reunite with family in the UK

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Refugees left sleeping around train stations to meet Sunak’s backlog pledge

Adam Bychawski, Anita Mureithi — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 14:03:07 +0000

One man was given just two hours to leave his accommodation after learning his asylum application had been granted

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski, Anita Mureithi.

Will the Tories meet their 2019 manifesto pledges?

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 22:01:06 +0000

Remember the 40 new hospitals and the 300,000 additional homes a year? Here’s how that’s going

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

More than just an election: The other key political events in 2024

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 22:01:06 +0000

From new immigration laws to the Covid inquiry’s module on vaccines, 2024 is more than just a year to head to the polls

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Will victims finally get justice for the Euromaidan killings?

Igor Burdyga — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 06:01:06 +0000

Ten years on from the killing of protesters, members of a specialist police unit in Ukraine are in court

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Igor Burdyga.

‘It breaks your spirit’: The climate protesters spending Christmas in jail

Anita Mureithi — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 22:01:06 +0000

Activists accused of crimes related to protest say life in prison is tough – but public support keeps them going

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Media research shows BBC is very far from ‘biased against Israel’

Greg Philo, Mike Berry — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 13:18:17 +0000

Academics analysed Israel-Palestine coverage and found Palestinian perspectives were given far less time and legitimacy

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Greg Philo, Mike Berry.

The desperate effort to get Ukraine’s captured civilians back from Russia

Igor Burdyga — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:23:51 +0000

Thousands of ordinary Ukrainians have been taken prisoner by Russian forces. Is there hope for them?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Igor Burdyga.

Digital giants are profiting from harmful ‘vaginal detox’ products in Kenya

Mukanzi Musanga — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:32:40 +0000

Campaigners say platforms like Jumia, Google and Meta need tougher rules to stop them benefiting from harming Africans

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Mukanzi Musanga.

Private airport rep worked with cops to threaten green campaigner with jail

Adam Bychawski — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 11:52:48 +0000

Police said Colin Shearn had asked too many questions and should be banned from Farnborough Airport’s public meetings

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

openDemocracy’s coverage of Russia and Ukraine to end as oDR closes

openDemocracy RSS — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 09:32:59 +0000

For years, oDR has been required reading for understanding grassroots politics and activism in the region

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

Revealed: Ukraine’s secret attempt to bypass top trade union bodies

Thomas Rowley, Serhiy Guz — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:18:06 +0000

Union leaders raise concerns about potential for government ‘control’ over new consultation body

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Thomas Rowley, Serhiy Guz.

How Ukrainian women are bearing the brunt of frontline life

Kateryna Farbar — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 16:38:53 +0000

With men either called up or hiding from the draft, women are left to juggle work and care under threat of shelling

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Kateryna Farbar.

Whoever wins the US election, the fight for trans rights will need to continue

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:57:57 +0000

Fairer mainstream media representation for trans Americans would help win the battle for hearts and minds

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Democracy is at risk in Guatemala, but there is still hope

Sanne Weber, Marlies Stappers — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:31:35 +0000

The political elites are trying to prevent the inauguration of the president-elect in January 2024 at all costs

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sanne Weber, Marlies Stappers.

Democracy is at risk in Guatemala, but there is still hope

Sanne Weber, Marlies Stappers — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:31:35 +0000

The political elites are trying to prevent the inauguration of the president-elect in January 2024 at all costs

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sanne Weber, Marlies Stappers.

UK universities take millions from defence companies arming Israel

Jenna Corderoy, Billy Stockwell — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 22:01:06 +0000

Major arms companies give UK universities almost £100m and sit on Russell Group advisory boards

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jenna Corderoy, Billy Stockwell.

How grieving Moroccan women are filling the gulf in earthquake aid for their communities

Laura Valentina Cortés Sierra — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 17:02:09 +0000

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Valentina Cortés Sierra.

Police disproportionately target Black rough sleepers under archaic law

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 13:04:02 +0000

Exclusive: Data reveals Black people are more likely to be arrested for being homeless under the Vagrancy Act

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

The women leading the fight for peace in Palestine

Paul Rogers — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 11:24:52 +0000

Women in Black have been holding silent vigils around the world to call for peace in the Middle East for 35 years

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Conflating antisemitism and anti-zionism emboldens the far right

Aaron Winter — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 11:22:50 +0000

Antisemitism and other racisms are on the rise. A focus on pro-Palestine activism undermines the fight against these

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Aaron Winter.

‘It was very secret’: Uncovering wounds of forced labour in Uzbek cotton

Madina Gazieva — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:27:49 +0000

Two Uzbeks who were subjected to forced labour as children open up about the country’s dark cotton production past

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Madina Gazieva.

Israel’s latest weapon against Palestine is Egypt’s debt

Alfons Pérez, Nicola Scherer — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:06:10 +0000

Will Egypt agree to take in the Palestinian population expelled from Gaza in exchange for the cancellation of its external debt?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Alfons Pérez, Nicola Scherer.

British elites have long been a barrier to peace in the Middle East

Adam Ramsay — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 11:07:07 +0000

Politicians parrot unworkable ‘two-state solution’ rather than confronting UK’s role in creating crisis in Gaza

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Ramsay.

England could have built 22% more social homes last year with Rwanda budget

Adam Bychawski — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 16:31:48 +0000

Government criticised for spending £400m on Rwanda scheme while more than 1.2m wait for social housing

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

London’s RSA launches probe into pro-Israel event that sparked staff walkout

Dania Kamal Aryf — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:34:52 +0000

The Royal Society of Arts claims it was not made aware of the event’s ‘geopolitically sensitive’ nature

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Dania Kamal Aryf.

London’s RSA launches probe into pro-Israel event that sparked staff walkout

Dania Kamal Aryf — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:34:52 +0000

The Royal Society of Arts claims it was not made aware of the event’s ‘geopolitically sensitive’ nature

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Dania Kamal Aryf.

London’s RSA launches probe into pro-Israel event that sparked staff walkout

Dania Kamal Aryf — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:34:52 +0000

The Royal Society of Arts claims it was not made aware of the event’s ‘geopolitically sensitive’ nature

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Dania Kamal Aryf.

Home Office accused of trapping women with abusers with £500 visa fee hike

Adam Bychawski — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 16:47:26 +0000

Abuse victims will pay £2,885 to apply to stay in UK, despite processing applications costing government just £646

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

How Peruvian feminists risk their safety to help women access abortions

Magda Gibelli — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 14:16:00 +0000

The country’s near-total abortion ban is forcing women and girls to turn to the black market for terminations

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Magda Gibelli.

Government maintains it ‘got big decisions right’ as Covid inquiry breaks

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 13:52:45 +0000

Top scientists have argued lockdown should have been a week earlier – and that there was evidence for it at the time

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Did Sunak mislead Parliament over Eat Out to Help Out?

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 12:44:20 +0000

Sunak told MPs that scientific advice had been taken ‘at all steps’ during Covid. That’s not what the inquiry has heard

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Why it is essential that the UK’s shady think tanks reveal their funders

Tom Brake — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:59:17 +0000

We know think tanks can shape government policy. But we often have no idea who is paying them to do so

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Tom Brake.

Media urged to scrutinise think tanks’ claims amid fears over secret donors

Alastair Tibbitt — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:59:13 +0000

openDemocracy report finds think tanks raking in millions, leading press regulator to issue warning to journalists

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Alastair Tibbitt.

Mark Drakeford failed Covid bereaved families. My dad deserved better

Anna-Louise Marsh-Rees — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:42:37 +0000

The Welsh first minister’s refusal to set up a Covid inquiry for Wales is a disgrace. His successor must commit to one

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anna-Louise Marsh-Rees.

Revealed: £281m of secret cash poured into UK universities

Jenna Corderoy, Billy Stockwell — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 23:31:04 +0000

Russell Group leaders lobbied the government to keep names of foreign donors secret

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jenna Corderoy, Billy Stockwell.

Jury retires in trial of ‘Elbit Eight’ who shut down Israeli arms factories

Anita Mureithi — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 17:31:46 +0000

Activists say their actions in 2020 and 2021 were lawfully justified amid Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Domestic abuse survivors tell Covid inquiry of ‘nightmare’ lockdown

James Harrison — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 16:16:03 +0000

‘Misogyny at heart of government’ led to spike in domestic violence as women were trapped with abusers, inquiry told

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

No court will stop Trump from becoming president. Expect him on the ballot

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 13:30:23 +0000

Campaigners across the US are trying to find ways to stop Trump from being the Republican nominee. None will succeed

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Job vacancy: Fundraising manager

openDemocracy RSS — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 12:58:02 +0000

We are looking for an outstanding fundraising manager to help us strengthen our fundraising capacity

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

Johnson’s Covid claims dismantled as inquiry prepares for Christmas break

James Harrison — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 12:31:30 +0000

‘Awkward things called facts and evidence’ undermined evidence of former UK PM Boris Johnson, hearing told

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Will Rishi die on his immigration hill?

Zoe Gardner — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 11:26:01 +0000

Sunak's policy on migration has become a farce, but he keeps ploughing on

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Zoe Gardner.

New visa rules could destroy thousands of families like mine. Who benefits?

Katherine Ward — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:23:59 +0000

Where you live and who you love are fundamental choices in people’s lives. And the Home Office is taking them away

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Katherine Ward.

Online dangers of UK government assault on encryption

Matthew Linares — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 15:17:09 +0000

The government’s technical ineptitude bodes badly in the data age. Here’s what the Online Safety Act could mean

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Matthew Linares.

What to expect from next year’s elections in Belarus

Igor Ilyash — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 14:28:21 +0000

The formation of the new ‘All-Belarusian People’s Assembly’ poses key questions for Alexander Lukashenka

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Igor Ilyash.

‘I cry every day’: Yet another oil spill in a Niger Delta community

Saint Ekpali — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 09:47:05 +0000

While Shell argues about the cause of pipeline failures, fishers in Ogoniland have been left with no alternative income

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Saint Ekpali.

The Niger Delta community devastated by yet another Shell oil spill

Saint Ekpali — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 09:47:05 +0000

As questions mount over the latest pipeline failure, fishers have been left with no alternative income

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Saint Ekpali.

Sunak insists there was no need to consult scientists on Eat Out to Help Out

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 15:33:03 +0000

Bullish under questioning, the prime minister claimed Eat Out was a ‘micropolicy’ that did not need scientific input

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Most Brits think the government does not care about their rights

Nandini Archer — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 14:43:48 +0000

New polling reveals lack of trust in government as ministers attempt to use Rwanda Bill to ignore Human Rights Act

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Archer.

Care workers already avoiding the UK due to planned ban on bringing families

Adam Bychawski — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 12:26:09 +0000

Exclusive: Applicants pulling out of recruitment processes due to the planned visa changes, say industry experts

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Care workers already avoiding the UK due to planned ban on bringing families

Adam Bychawski — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 12:26:09 +0000

Exclusive: Applicants pulling out of recruitment processes due to the planned visa changes, say industry experts

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

‘We only ate rice for a week’: refugees struggle to survive in Jordan

Melissa Pawson — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 11:13:57 +0000

An asylum ban, limited access to work permits and aid cuts have pushed refugees into poverty and exploitation

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Melissa Pawson.

Could the historic case of a trans sex worker end Malawi’s anti-LGBTIQ law?

Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu, Josephine Chinele — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:44:00 +0000

A High Court appeal could have huge implications in the fight for LGBTIQ rights

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Khatondi Soita Wepukhulu, Josephine Chinele.

Why Peruvians are protesting again a year after Pedro Castillo’s dismissal

Susanna De Guio — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 16:33:38 +0000

Protests are taking place demanding justice for the people killed in last year’s uprising

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Susanna De Guio.

WATCH: Boris Johnson’s most outrageous moments at Covid inquiry

Indra Warnes, James Battershill — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 14:28:34 +0000

The former prime minister floundered as he defended his government’s response to the pandemic

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Indra Warnes, James Battershill.

Russian oligarch’s book offers a revolution the people can’t take part in

Nikolay Andreev — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 11:26:14 +0000

Putin’s regime is built on a passive society. Mikhail Khodorkovsky’s plan for revolution repeats the same mistake

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nikolay Andreev.

Johnson denies ‘racism’ contributed to deaths of ethnic minority NHS staff

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:51:53 +0000

Ex-PM struggled to answer Covid inquiry’s questions on disproportionate number of deaths in minority ethnic groups

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Government crackdown on migrant care workers is rooted in historical slavery

Emily Kenway — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:17:18 +0000

Migrant workers will be forced to leave their relatives without care in order to look after the wealthier and whiter

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Emily Kenway.

Robert Jenrick refused to help Afghan feminist lawyer being hunted by Taliban

Adam Bychawski — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:12:40 +0000

The lawyer’s husband has been forced to go on the run after the former immigration minister refused plea for help

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Far-right Republicans have unlikely new target in their sights: divorce

Chrissy Stroop — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:09:29 +0000

Bans on no-fault divorces would be unpopular, but the Republicans may be too caught up in a moral panic to care

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

On the edge of Europe: one man’s search for safety

Leon Spring, Siraaj al Mughamir — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 12:53:29 +0000

Awadh escaped war in Sudan and endured a brutal journey through North Africa. He is determined to reach Europe

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Leon Spring, Siraaj al Mughamir.

Johnson: ‘I didn’t know scientists weren’t consulted on Eat Out to Help Out’

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 11:44:31 +0000

The former prime minister said he did not understand how it had been ‘smuggled past the scientific advice’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

‘What life is this?’: Escaping Ukraine’s occupied territories

Isobel Koshiw — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 11:15:24 +0000

From food shortages to informants, eight evacuees tell openDemocracy of life in Russian-occupied towns

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Isobel Koshiw.

Boris Johnson: I should have had more women in top team during Covid

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 17:09:10 +0000

But the former PM rejected accusations of a ‘toxic’ culture and said he also needed team to be ‘argumentative’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Airbnb claims homeowners have to let out properties to help with energy bills

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 12:55:47 +0000

Data shows most people with second homes are in the highest income bracket

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Boris Johnson: My mistakes during Covid did not lead to excess deaths

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 12:12:16 +0000

Appearing at the Covid inquiry, the former PM struggled to name a single mistake his government made

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Home Office ignored official advice to lower salary needed for family visas

Adam Bychawski — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:59:08 +0000

Revealed: Migration Advisory Committee told Home Office the threshold for bringing dependents to the UK was too high

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Boris Johnson dodges bereaved families by arriving at Covid inquiry at 7am

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:26:57 +0000

Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice UK had planned a protest for the former PM's entrance to the inquiry

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Job vacancy: Senior investigative reporter

openDemocracy RSS — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 17:18:58 +0000

Joining our award-winning UK Investigations team, you will develop and oversee major projects

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

Human rights groups to sue UK government over Israel arms exports

Adam Bychawski — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 15:01:05 +0000

Ministers have been accused of ignoring evidence that Israel has breached arms licence criteria by killing civilians

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

‘The time is now’: Inside Brazil’s fight to decriminalize abortion

Andrea Dip — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 13:43:34 +0000

Women will die due to far right’s attack on Supreme Court that has made decriminalization unlikely, activists say

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Andrea Dip.

‘I set my alarm for 2am’: Meet the people attending the Covid inquiry every day

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 05:01:06 +0000

Travelling for six hours, spending thousands of pounds – to what lengths will bereaved families go for justice?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

‘I set my alarm for 2am’: Meet the people attending the Covid inquiry every day

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 05:01:06 +0000

Travelling for six hours, spending thousands of pounds – to what lengths will bereaved families go for justice?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Did Hancock think people in care homes were already about to die?

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 17:39:29 +0000

Former health secretary didn’t challenge aide’s claim that care home residents were ‘near the end regardless’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Farmers swap poverty in Ghana for exploitation in Europe

Owusu . — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:01:06 +0000

Owusu couldn't make a living in Ghana. He travelled to Italy to find work – but was shocked by the conditions there

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Owusu ..

Government extensively profiled NHS doctor who fought for Covid transparency

Tommy Greene — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 23:01:06 +0000

Exclusive: Health department said it would take 18 months to go through all the data it had gathered on Dr Qureshi

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Tommy Greene.

Hancock accepts there was no ‘protective ring’ around care homes

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:21:18 +0000

Evidence also shows his own adviser had ‘issues’ with claims care homes were locked down first

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Revealed: COP28 president linked to spyware experts via ‘AI university’

Lucas Amin, Ben Webster — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:45:53 +0000

There are fears that guests and journalists could be spied on at the international climate conference in Dubai

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Lucas Amin, Ben Webster.

Matt Hancock denies claims he lied about Covid plans

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:12:53 +0000

Former health secretary insists there is ‘no evidence’ for any of the accusations he didn’t tell the truth

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Migrants returned from Libya say UN has ‘forgotten’ them

Appiah Stephen — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 07:01:06 +0000

Appiah was returned to Ghana by the UN after being imprisoned in Libya. But now he says he feels abandoned

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Appiah Stephen.

Solving the climate crisis means ending our addiction to economic growth

Emilia Reyes — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 18:05:11 +0000

But degrowth in the Global North will not work unless it is done alongside reparations for the Global South

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Emilia Reyes.

openDemocracy versus the status quo

Anthony Barnett — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 17:47:52 +0000

Our founding editor-in-chief reflects on how the world – and this website – have changed in the past quarter-century

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anthony Barnett.

Baby food firms accused of ‘exploiting’ parents to make £367m for shareholders

Adam Bychawski — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 17:25:21 +0000

Price hikes on household goods ‘transfer wealth’ from struggling families to uber-rich investors, charities warn

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

US holiday season leaves no room for those who struggle with the festivities

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 15:30:48 +0000

Christmas films that preach kindness, generosity and anti-consumerism are at odds with reality of festive season

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

US holiday season leaves no room for those who struggle with the festivities

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 15:30:48 +0000

Christmas films that preach kindness, generosity and anti-consumerism are at odds with reality of festive season

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

US holiday season leaves no room for those who struggle with the festivities

Chrissy Stroop — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 15:30:48 +0000

Christmas films that preach kindness, generosity and anti-consumerism are at odds with reality of festive season

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Johnson said consulting with unions over return-to-work was ‘bollocks’

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 14:12:58 +0000

Diary entry from Patrick Vallance claims former PM dismissed mask wearing and working from home

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Extremists and hate groups meet at UN to ‘reclaim’ human rights declaration

Andrea Dip — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 12:36:17 +0000

Members of the Political Network for Values gathered to discuss the need to fight abortion and LGBTIQ rights

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Andrea Dip.

Javier Milei’s problems have begun before his presidency even starts

Francesc Badia i Dalmases — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 12:21:42 +0000

Argentina's incoming president has already rowed back on dollarisation and his other radical reforms are also at risk

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Francesc Badia i Dalmases.

‘We will need to discharge Covid patients into care homes’

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 12:10:41 +0000

March 2020 email from Jenny Harries said sending Covid patients into social care would be ‘the reality’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Holding COP28 in Dubai is a joke. Letting Charles open it is a bigger one

Felipe Viveros — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 11:20:43 +0000

The royal family is one the world’s biggest landowners. And land ownership is at the root of the climate crisis

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Felipe Viveros.

Migrants accepted voluntary return to escape ‘torture’ of Libya jail

Kwaku Amoah — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:01:06 +0000

Kwaku was imprisoned for a year in Libya after being rescued at sea. He says his return to Ghana wasn’t a choice

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Kwaku Amoah.

Pro-shooting minister approves gamebird licences despite bird flu warning

Ben Webster — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 00:16:05 +0000

Exclusive: Lord Benyon overruled his own experts to allow release of pheasants and partridges in protected sites

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ben Webster.

Michael Gove defends exempting hunting and shooting from Covid restrictions

Laura Oliver — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 16:14:02 +0000

The cabinet minister also said the government’s PPE procurement ‘deserves at the very least a reflection’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Non-profit behind ‘He Gets Us’ Super Bowl ads is main funder for US hate group

Diana Cariboni, Sydney Bauer — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 12:35:55 +0000

The Servant Foundation has ploughed tens of millions of dollars into the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), openDemocracy can reveal

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Diana Cariboni, Sydney Bauer.

Boris Johnson asked if £37bn NHS Test and Trace was ‘achieving anything’

Laura Oliver — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 18:01:16 +0000

A Covid inquiry witness also claims to have been present for Johnson’s infamous ‘let the bodies pile high’ comment

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

What do recent antisemitic riots tell us about Dagestan?

Saida Sirazhudinova — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 14:21:32 +0000

Riots in Russia’s North Caucasus protesting a flight from Tel Aviv follow years of increased radicalisation

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Saida Sirazhudinova.

‘So f***ed’: Advisers said Johnson learnt nothing from first Covid wave

finlay johnston — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 18:42:03 +0000

Staff complained prime minister was repeating mistakes he made in March 2020 ahead of Xmas lockdown, inquiry hears

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

Top scientists were not consulted on Eat Out to Help Out scheme

finlay johnston — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 14:48:14 +0000

Scheme to boost restaurant attendance went ahead without input of Chris Whitty, Patrick Vallance or SAGE, inquiry told

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

I had to skip meals after my husband died because of Home Office visa fees

Anonymous — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 13:22:22 +0000

I went hungry so me and my daughter could live in the UK. Now ministers are inflicting more trauma on the bereaved

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anonymous.

Revealed: ‘Greenwashing’ cruise ships burning diesel despite energy pledge

Lucas Amin, Ben Webster — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 12:01:07 +0000

Exclusive: Cruises ‘pour poison into the air’ by failing to plug into low-carbon electricity while in UK ports

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Lucas Amin, Ben Webster.

Covid inquiry: What we learnt this week (it wasn’t all foul-mouthed rants)

Sam Gelder — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 17:24:51 +0000

We know there was chaos at the heart of Number 10. Now we’re hearing about how it impacted vital decisions

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sam Gelder.

This week’s Covid inquiry revelations were even worse than we feared

Matt Fowler — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 15:43:10 +0000

When you see these figures had such disregard for each other, you can only imagine the disregard they had for us

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Matt Fowler.

UK was ‘at least a week late’ with first Covid lockdown, inquiry told

James Harrison — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:57:43 +0000

But the Department of Health official said at the time the decision was ‘completely rational’ given what was known

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Public healthcare in northern Mexico is dodging federal rules on abortion

Dánae Vílchez, Verónica Martínez — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 16:51:59 +0000

Mexican law allows abortion for victims of rape – but state hospitals and politicians often stand in their way

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Dánae Vílchez, Verónica Martínez.

Ex-NHS chief refuses to say whether Matt Hancock lied during pandemic

James Harrison — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 11:47:53 +0000

When pushed, Simon Stevens told the Covid inquiry that the former health secretary was truthful ‘for the most part’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Exclusive: Abortions in prison fall by 75% despite rise in general population

Nic Murray — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 10:10:47 +0000

Experts fear inmates face barriers to healthcare as abortions decline in prisons while rising among general public

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nic Murray.

Lack of female perspective in Covid policies had ‘significant’ impact

James Harrison — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:25:32 +0000

Decisions on Covid measures did not properly consider domestic abuse, PPE, childcare or pregnancy, inquiry told

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

‘Hard to pick a day when Covid rules were followed’ in No.10, inquiry hears

James Harrison — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 14:27:10 +0000

Senior figures in Downing Street presided over a toxic ‘macho’ culture that sidelined women, Helen MacNamara says

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Lula’s political balancing act is paying off – for now

Bernardo Gutiérrez — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:05:12 +0000

The Brazil president has stabilised the economy, controls Congress and is popular. But Bolsonarism is holding on

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Bernardo Gutiérrez.

Ukraine failing to procure enough drones to fight Russia, soldiers say

Kateryna Farbar — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 11:43:35 +0000

Exclusive: Drone operators also told openDemocracy that drones are not being evenly distributed between army units

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Kateryna Farbar.

Home Office at risk of accidentally deporting children to Rwanda

Nandini Archer — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 09:48:46 +0000

Children being classed as adults under flawed age assessments could end up on Rwanda flight

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Archer.

Is Labour ready for an immigration overhaul?

Zoe Gardner — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 07:01:06 +0000

Labour may be entering No. 10 next year. What did their conference tell us about their plans for migration?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Zoe Gardner.

Is Labour ready for an immigration overhaul?

Zoe Gardner — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 07:01:06 +0000

Labour may be entering No. 10 next year. What did their conference tell us about their plans for migration?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Zoe Gardner.

Is Labour ready for an immigration overhaul?

Zoe Gardner — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 07:01:06 +0000

Labour may be entering No. 10 next year. What did their conference tell us about their plans for migration?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Zoe Gardner.

Revealed: Cummings’ misogynistic slur about top civil servant in text to PM

finlay johnston — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:45:29 +0000

Boris Johnson’s top adviser complained that he was having to ‘dodge stilettos’ from UK’s most senior female civil servant

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

How the spectre of Pinochet still haunts Chile’s constitutional debate

Juan Elman — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 15:13:49 +0000

After the public voted down a new progressive constitution, a right-wing party has surged to prominence. What now?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Juan Elman.

Ukraine is worried that Israel-Palestine will bump it down the US agenda

Kristina Berdynskykh — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 15:03:12 +0000

Ukrainian politicians say a downturn in support was expected, but Israel-Palestine conflict has 'accelerated' it

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Kristina Berdynskykh.

Boris Johnson said Covid was ‘nature’s way of dealing with old people’

finlay johnston — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 13:07:32 +0000

Former prime minister said he agreed that ‘we should let the old people get it’, today’s Covid inquiry heard

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

Boris Johnson’s indecisiveness led to lockdown delays, Covid inquiry hears

Indra Warnes, finlay johnston — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:00:51 +0000

The prime minister’s ‘oscillating’ was partly to blame for a 10-day delay in announcing a national lockdown

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Indra Warnes, finlay johnston.

Why destroy economy for people who will die anyway, Johnson said to have asked

finlay johnston — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 16:48:58 +0000

Explosive claim about former prime minister based on notebooks from his one-time aide, Imran Shafi

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

Netanyahu is unlikely to listen to the West’s growing unease

Paul Rogers — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 16:03:41 +0000

The Israeli leader is emboldened by a hard-right coalition and frustrated with calls for humanitarian pause in Gaza

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Boris Johnson took no Covid updates during February 2020 half-term break

finlay johnston, Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 16:00:28 +0000

Former aide Martin Reynolds tells Covid inquiry he “cannot recall” why PM was given no updates for ten days

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston, Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

What links Israel and white Christianity? The myth of innocence

Chrissy Stroop — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:31:17 +0000

Christian privilege in the US is reinforced by a myth that white America is innately innocent. Israel does the same

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Chrissy Stroop.

Johnson aide set key WhatsApp group to auto-delete ahead of Covid inquiry

finlay johnston, Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:00:20 +0000

Martin Reynolds turned on the setting as plans for the official probe took shape, inquiry hears

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston, Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

What gives Israel the right to annihilate Gaza?

Luigi Achilli, Caitlin Procter — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 11:41:51 +0000

Suggesting that both sides are equally to blame is not a defensible position

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Luigi Achilli, Caitlin Procter.

The establishment thinks it’s seen off all challengers. But people are angry

Adam Ramsay — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 10:31:57 +0000

Widespread discontent is unlikely to cost Starmer the election, but it’ll cause problems for his future regime

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Ramsay.

Climate and racial justice advocates condemn treatment of Tube driver

Anita Mureithi — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 16:59:18 +0000

Campaigners say treatment of Tube driver who led ‘free Palestine’ chant is part of a clampdown on dissent

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

How Ghana’s president went from democratic darling to anti-protest overlord

Delali Adogla-Bessa — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 11:57:34 +0000

Ghanaians are uniting against Nana Akufo-Addo amid discontent over corruption, economic mismanagement and inflation

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Delali Adogla-Bessa.

Can an American NGO survive calling for the decriminalisation of sex work?

Jean Bruggeman — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 10:00:01 +0000

Freedom Network USA was nervous when it called for the US to decriminalise sex work. Two years on, they’re fine

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Jean Bruggeman.

Still no sign language at Covid inquiry – a year after request was made

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 22:01:06 +0000

Disability advocacy groups warn some of the worst affected by the pandemic are missing out on ‘important information'

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

I’m on Labour’s exec committee. Our party needs an inquiry into Islamophobia

Mish Rahman — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 13:36:55 +0000

Keir Starmer needs to apologise, retract his comments and stop the gaslighting of Muslims

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Mish Rahman.

Ukraine’s desperate search for war funding hits local budgets

Yurii Gaidai — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 10:06:39 +0000

Ukraine’s local authorities are resisting attempts to raid their reserves despite government assurances of support

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Yurii Gaidai.

Transnistria conflict could complicate Moldova’s hard road to the EU

Evghenii Ceban — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 08:44:55 +0000

The breakaway Russian-backed state in eastern Moldova could be an obstacle to bloc membership, despite what EU officials say

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Evghenii Ceban.

Labour’s Muslim vote could collapse, huge snapshot survey suggests

Dania Kamal Aryf — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 08:13:36 +0000

An online survey by research group Muslim Census received 30,000 responses

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Dania Kamal Aryf.

Over 250 Muslim councillors demand Keir Starmer calls for ceasefire in Gaza

Sam Gelder, Dania Kamal Aryf — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 08:13:36 +0000

39 Labour MPs also back calls for a ceasefire while snapshot survey warns of collapse in party's Muslim support

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sam Gelder, Dania Kamal Aryf.

Braverman faces fresh legal challenge over treatment of asylum seekers

Nandini Archer — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 20:01:07 +0000

Refugee charity Care4Calais is seeking to sue the government for ‘segregating’ asylum seekers at RAF Wethersfield

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Archer.

Facebook workers in Kenya say Meta hasn’t paid them for 6 months amid legal case

Mukanzi Musanga — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 11:56:00 +0000

Meta and its contractor have now been accused of contempt of court by a group of content moderators

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Mukanzi Musanga.

The anti-abortion group targeting Mexico’s pregnant women – and children

Dánae Vílchez, Verónica Martínez — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 18:46:45 +0000

As Mexico’s Supreme Court paves the way for national abortion rights, groups like Vifac are spearheading a backlash

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Dánae Vílchez, Verónica Martínez.

Eight landlord MPs spoke during debate on renters’ rights

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 16:25:49 +0000

Tenants’ groups say more transparency is needed as property owners raise concerns over Renters (Reform) Bill

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

What you need to know about Palantir, the US firm in line for a £480m NHS deal

Adam Bychawski — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 17:30:07 +0000

Former Donald Trump ally Peter Thiel’s spy-tech firm is the frontrunner for the NHS's biggest ever contract

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

‘No-fault’ evictions ban delayed indefinitely after landlord lobbying

Ruby Lott-Lavigna, Sam Gelder — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 12:28:58 +0000

Michael Gove’s department made the announcement days before he gives the keynote speech at the Landlord Conference

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna, Sam Gelder.

Can EU help Belarusians who face the choice between statelessness and prison?

Igor Ilyash — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 10:23:54 +0000

Belarus’s government wants to cut off those who flee the country. An alternative passport might be the solution

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Igor Ilyash.

Argentina’s nervous breakdown set to deliver far-right candidate to power

Francesc Badia i Dalmases — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 17:15:13 +0000

Javier Milei, who modelled presidential campaign on Trump and Bolsonaro, looks set to win first-round vote on Sunday

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Francesc Badia i Dalmases.

Why Harriet Harman is a controversial MP to head the Standards Committee

Martin Williams — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 11:48:44 +0000

The Labour MP was accused of trying to ‘hide’ MPs’ expenses before the 2009 scandal

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Martin Williams.

An innovative, green, tech hub? How Ukrainians are looking to the future

Barbara von Ow-Freytag — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 11:31:42 +0000

Community leaders have big ideas for Ukraine’s future – and want to be heard

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Barbara von Ow-Freytag.

Rishi Sunak called ‘Dr Death’ by government scientist after Eat Out to Help Out

James Harrison — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 15:12:28 +0000

WhatsApps and emails submitted to the Covid inquiry reveal tensions over government decisions

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Science committee chair cherry-picked Covid facts ‘like a West End review’

James Harrison — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 14:52:17 +0000

Tory MP Greg Clark has been accused of misrepresenting SAGE’s pandemic advice in latest Covid inquiry hearing

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

Covid inquiry won’t show Patrick Vallance’s full diaries amid legal challenge

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:45:00 +0000

Lawyers for the former chief scientific adviser said publishing the diaries in full breached his human rights

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Government slammed over ‘bizarre’ use of Amazon to give fuel poverty advice

Adam Bychawski — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:44:39 +0000

Exclusive: Amazon staff also urged company to raise ‘poverty wages’ instead of giving money-saving tips to customers

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Why Ukrainians should support Palestinians

Daria Saburova — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 12:09:59 +0000

How can we look at images of Gaza and not see Mariupol or Bakhmut?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Daria Saburova.

Black boy playing with water pistol held at gunpoint by Met police

Anita Mureithi — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 09:53:41 +0000

The Met has been accused of racial bias and adultification after the boy, 13, was rammed off his bike and arrested

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Anita Mureithi.

Boris Johnson ignored warnings from Covid scientists about public messaging

finlay johnston — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:22:51 +0000

A Cabinet Office scientist who raised concerns over ‘stay alert’ was told it was ‘too late’. SAGE was not even asked

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by finlay johnston.

Israel’s assault on Gaza provides breeding ground for Hamas

Paul Rogers — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 15:53:25 +0000

Hamas must have anticipated the sheer scale of Israel’s attack, suggesting it thinks the conflict could last decades

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

Government has ‘no plans’ to stop arms sales to Israel despite civilian deaths

Adam Bychawski — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 08:54:41 +0000

Human rights groups say UK is ignoring its own rules on arms exports after hundreds of Palestinians killed

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Adam Bychawski.

Investigation launched into ‘greenwashing’ in gas industry

Ben Webster — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 16:57:55 +0000

Competition regulator's probe comes after openDemocracy found sales advisers were making false claims about boilers

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ben Webster.

Lack of ethnic diversity on SAGE ‘impacted’ advice given to ministers on Covid

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 12:51:46 +0000

Epidemiologist Steven Riley noted there was “very little ethnic diversity within the system” when Covid hit

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Scientists proposed ‘cocooning’ carers to protect elderly from Covid, inquiry hears

Laura Oliver — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 15:09:08 +0000

One epidemiologist said he believes SAGE unfairly dismissed suggestion despite shielding failing to protect vulnerable

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

The UK establishment is using war to attack protest at home

Benny Hunter — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 12:32:21 +0000

The conflict in the Middle East has led British political actors to try and redefine what is 'acceptable speech'

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Benny Hunter.

Boris Johnson asked: ‘Do we really believe in long Covid?’

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:59:31 +0000

A long Covid expert said the PM’s scepticism made no sense because ‘the science was already quite compelling’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

‘We look like a terrible, tragic joke’: Covid WhatsApps show government chaos

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 12:01:42 +0000

Messages from Simon Case, Lee Cain and Dominic Cummings document tension at the heart of government during Covid

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

Government’s pandemic modellers ‘weren’t given key policy information’

Laura Oliver — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 17:07:29 +0000

Graham Medley also tells UK Covid-19 inquiry that risk of NHS being overwhelmed was first raised in February 2020

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Job vacancy: Investigative reporter

openDemocracy RSS — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 16:12:49 +0000

Joining our award-winning UK investigations team, you will have a particular focus on dark money and political corruption

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by openDemocracy RSS.

She faces 10 years in jail for anti-war stickers – now she’s being starved

Sergey Smirnov — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 15:15:10 +0000

The case against protester Sasha Skochilenko shows how the Russian criminal justice system is broken

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Sergey Smirnov.

How a community fought for survival amid Azerbaijan’s bombs

Siranush Sargsyan, Olivia Katrandjian — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 14:51:16 +0000

Azerbaijan said Armenians left Nagorno-Karabakh of their own accord. The story of one village proves otherwise

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Siranush Sargsyan, Olivia Katrandjian.

Publishing SAGE advice led to abuse of scientists, Covid inquiry told

Laura Oliver — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 13:34:26 +0000

Members of the government’s Scientific Advisory Group on Emergencies needed counselling and security advice

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Lobbyists and corporate sponsors were everywhere at the Labour conference

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 11:36:50 +0000

It’s been clear for a while that Keir Starmer’s Labour is embracing big business. Its conference confirmed it

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

UK Palestine groups to defy Suella Braverman’s crackdown

Nandini Archer, Anita Mureithi — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 10:52:17 +0000

The UK home secretary has said displaying Palestinian flags could be illegal, in an ‘assault on basic rights’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Nandini Archer, Anita Mureithi.

Delays in UK Covid response behind ‘rollercoaster’ of lockdowns, inquiry told

Laura Oliver — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:35:47 +0000

Slower interventions to curb the spread of coronavirus led to more stringent measures for longer, says Thomas Hale

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Laura Oliver.

Early Covid pandemic saw Number 10 sharing data on ‘scraps of paper’

James Harrison — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 17:53:55 +0000

The Covid inquiry has heard how a low-tech data operation left Downing Street scrambling as lockdown was announced

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

If this is Israel’s 9/11, we should remember what happened next

Paul Rogers — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:18:26 +0000

The US achieved nothing in the Middle East, but millions of civilians paid the price – the same will be true now

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Paul Rogers.

What Ukraine’s operation against Russian-occupied Crimea means for the war

Isobel Koshiw — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 13:53:56 +0000

Ukraine has targeted the annexed peninsula of Crimea – on jet skis. But is it enough to turn the tide?

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Isobel Koshiw.

Downing Street pandemic infighting ‘far more difficult’ than Blair vs Brown

James Harrison — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 13:22:24 +0000

Simon Case asked cabinet secretary predecessor Gus O’Donnell for help managing warring factions, inquiry hears

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by James Harrison.

‘Poisoned’ Russian journalist on loving a country that wants you dead

Valeria Costa-Kostritsky — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:02:32 +0000

Elena Kostyuchenko, who reported extensively on state crimes, reveals why her new book is titled ‘I love Russia’

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Valeria Costa-Kostritsky.

Deliveroo’s gig economy event at Labour conference featured no riders

Ruby Lott-Lavigna — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 18:55:51 +0000

The company’s CEO told the audience he didn’t know why there was no worker representation on the panel

This content originally appeared on openDemocracy RSS and was authored by Ruby Lott-Lavigna.

openDemocracy – Radio Free

Labour donor Lord Alli under investigation over financial interests

Revealed: Anti-immigrant laws leave 1,000s unable to claim asylum

Should politicians be allowed to take gifts and donations?

Rights groups urge World Bank not to resume lending to Uganda over anti-gay law

Labour donor Lord Alli failed to declare interests in tax haven firm

Libya migrant rescue centre set to open despite rights abuses

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Why wait until the robots take our jobs? We need a basic income now

Bolt and Uber drivers: ‘Xenophobic’ prank exposes need to fix gig economy

Should Labour have taken £4m from hedge fund in a tax haven?

Fake news was invented 500 years ago – we must learn from its history

Labour given £4m from tax haven-based hedge fund with shares in oil and arms

Inside the 1970s British Black Panther movement

Readers’ thoughts on the two child benefit cap

Lobbyists helped MPs get elected – and you have no right to know about it

How misogyny lures men to the far right

Cyberboss: Here’s how AI is reorganising the lines of class struggle

Concerts, clothes and New York breaks: New ministers take £170,000 of gifts

Scrapping the two-child cap would be a start – but still not enough

Starmer’s new immigration bill is just as racist as the Rwanda plan

Starmer’s hints about the budget suggest UK is set for bleak four years

Disabled people don’t need another inquiry. We need change

Readers’ thoughts on Britain’s role in the invasion of Afghanistan

Don’t assume Labour will put time limits on migrant detention

I saw how the US backed Jerusalem’s ethnic cleansing – and Blair looked on

What happens in the US could have global implications for abortion

Readers’ thoughts on human rights abuses and imprisoned slavery victims

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Hundreds of modern slavery victims locked up in England’s prisons

Five things to watch for at this year’s Democratic National Convention

Climate crisis means the future looks grim. But there are reasons for hope

Uruguay closes teen care home after openDemocracy reveals neglect

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British Muslim MP Naz Shah: We need to amplify minority stories

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US elections: Where does Kamala Harris stand on Gaza?

Why Nigeria’s anti-inflation protests are unlikely to lead to any real change

‘Worse than business as usual’: EU overlooks Uganda’s attack on human rights

Meet the migrants absent from the debate on fascist riots

The boy with the bullet wounds: Neglect and brutality in Uruguay’s care homes

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Racist riots are nothing new – they’re part of the fabric of British society

Students toppled the prime minister, but what next for Bangladesh?

More police officers are never the answer. Only we can stop the far right

Revealed: Mexico’s big businesses bankroll major anti-abortion network

As the far right riots in the UK, India offers a cautionary tale

Great Replacement & boogaloo – the ideology driving the modern far right

How will Israel’s recent assassinations affect war in Gaza?

European diplomats’ talks with Hamas must go beyond hostage negotiations

This week’s reader comments: Time to abolish the IMF and UK royal family

Revealed: Corporate lobbyists were at heart of Labour’s election campaign

Inside the Westminster networking events where lobbyists and politicians mix

Home Office bungling, US election, Labour sell outs: This week’s reader comments

King Charles’ property empire earns £334,000 from housing benefit

Missionary charged with sex crimes tries to legalise homosexuality in Malawi

Let’s abolish the colonial IMF on its 80th birthday

US voters want change, Biden’s exit hasn’t fixed that

How to fix the UK’s dark money problem

Judge rules Oxford University’s mysterious £10m donor will remain secret

Will Labour tackle the climate crisis?

The army of private sector secondees who helped Labour win

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Government fails to monitor firms with £4bn contracts to house asylum seekers

The start of NHS privatisation: How Paul Foot shone a light on New Labour

Millionaire whose firm won £40m PPE contract sexually assaulted staff

How Big Pharma preys on poor countries – and patients pay the price

In a pivotal election, Georgia’s opposition must look past Russia vs EU

Devastation in Gaza poses an increasingly serious problem for Starmer

Join the conversation: Readers’ thoughts on the UK election results

Nearly 100 prison staff sanctioned for ‘inappropriate’ relationships

‘Women have to suffer’: Going undercover in the incel movement

Lovebombed by lobbyists: How Labour became the party of Big Business

‘How do we control Palestinians? We make them feel like we are everywhere’

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Rishi Sunak set to preside over a historic defeat. What will his legacy be?

Revealed: The secretive group taking MPs on trips to Israel