May 30th

30 May 2012
Top slot
Top article: 
Lines in shifting sands: Russia’s response to the Syrian uprising
Top article description: 
Russian policy in the Middle East has been largely driven by pragmatic calculations of trade and geopolitical influence, in direct opposition to notions of the ‘Arab Spring’. This week’s shocking massacre by Syrian forces in Houla, however, has challenged the durability of that approach. Will Russia now fall in line with the position of its western partners?
Top image: 
Image credit: 
FreedomHouse/Flickr. Some rights reserved.
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Left column
Article 1: 
Can disruptive policy create a sustainable finance system?
Article 1 description: 
The ideas for creating a new and sustainable finance system are out there. If this thinking doesn't get greater exposure to policy makers and the media, the world of finance will remain a barrier to social and environmental progress.
Article 2: 
Syria beyond conflict: the economic test
Article 2 description: 
The bitter divisions in Syria both reflect and intensify the grave, long-term economic challenges that must be met if the country is to have a viable future.
Article 3: 
Some people, Mr Cameron - the Murdochs and a Satanic deal
Article 3 description: 
Cameron has again denied any 'great conspiracy' between the British government and the Murdochs, despite accusations by 'Some People'. Anthony Barnett, who counts himself in this group, sets out why the pact was doubtless Faustian, and the denial heaping insult onto injury.
Right column
Article 1: 
The Alabama syndrome
Article 1 description: 
The European Union is not the United States; Germany is not Massachusetts; and Greece is not Alabama, more’s the pity.
Article 2: 
Liberty's wings will get badly burnt by "Flame"
Article 2 description: 
The "Flame" worm is a reminder just how fragile is the digital space of freedom that we have known. I used to think that the dire warnings from Jonathan Zittrain of an end to generativity and network openness were unduly pessimistic. Here's why I've changed my mind.
Article 3: 
The death of the indignados movement
Article 3 description: 
The indignados movement is dead and Spain is back to the traditional political management of demands and interests. The language of protest needs another restructuring.
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