It is time to reframe the development discourse on conflict and fragility. A set of international objectives is needed that complements the MDGs to lead efforts to reduce conflict and fragility. But that is not enough. Making this happen will put the leadership, credibility and energies both of fr
While the second flotilla to Gaza prepared to set sail this week under the motto ‘Stay Human,’ Europe moved a step closer to full participation in the Israeli oppression of Palestinians
Chinese stand-up Zhou Libo blurs the line between comedy and political critique, discussing political taboos and poking fun at the Communist Party. How long will the government turn a blind eye?
The crisis in Greece can be seen as an illustration of a trade-off between sovereignty, democracy and globalization. While all three are important building blocks of a modern European state, lessons from Eastern Europe show how accepting outside guidance can put a country on a path towards a healt
The UK-wide strikes over pension reform failed to release the energy many hoped for on the left. Coupled by the Labour leader's condemnation of 30 June, it is easy to be pessimistic. Yet the way to beat the Coalition is through a strategic optimism that is prepared to think big and look beyond Wes
Beppe Grillo is by far the most original phenomenon of Italy’s immobile and inefficient politics. His personal biography is as compelling as the political ideas he propagates through his blog - the ninth most visited worldwide
Examining the social and political impact of an unprecedented austerity programme
An eighteen-year-old trafficked girl Y, subjected to years of exploitation and abuse, broke her silence today in an interview with Dan Foster, at the Children’s Legal Centre
A new report, "Leafleting: A Liberty Lost?", finds that councils are cracking down on leafleting by local groups such as arts organisations and the WI - yet are increasing spending on their own council leaflets
The happiness agenda imagines people as individuals living constantly in the now. But in this age of uncertainty, there is a pressing need to recognise the importance of history, relationships, identity and agency to personal wellbeing
Effective opposition in Belarus has traditionally been limited by a limited sense of nationhood, a deeply controlled society and a social contract that exchanges rights for “stability”. The country’s deepening financial crisis undermines all three of these pillars. Could it be that the time for ch
