Austria’s thirtieth anniversary in the EU is marred by failed coalition talks between the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS, allowing the far-right FPÖ, led by Herbert Kickl, an opportunity to form a government. The ÖVP’s willingness to negotiate with the FPÖ raises concerns about the future of Austria’s democracy and liberal values.
This is serious: Trump wants Greenland and Panama
Donald Trump’s recent remarks about reclaiming U.S. territories reflect a misguided approach reminiscent of neoconservative ambition post-9/11. The Project for a New American Century aimed for U.S. global dominance but ultimately failed, leading to devastating wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Trump’s policies may similarly escalate tensions, risking further conflict.
10 reasons why Donald Trump can’t stop global climate action
Why Trump can’t derail global climate action: Global transition to clean energy is now a “historic megatrend” that won’t be changed by a single US president.
Seven steps to save Scotland’s creative economy
How to stop Scotland lagging behind? Dougal Perman proposes a carefully targeted plan to invest that long-promised £100m for the creative industries. But the money must be spent now.
Hope and powerlessness: the world in new year 2025
The new year presents challenges amid global conflicts and power struggles, highlighting a deep sense of hopelessness. Yet, meaningful hope exists through activism and accountability in political leadership, as demonstrated by brave movements and public dissent toward fostering a better future.
The gift nobody wants to open
Spare a thought this Christmas/New Year for the person at the Fiscals’ office on whose desk the file marked ‘Operation Branch Form’, the investigation into the SNP’s finances, is resting.
How does Assad’s removal alter the Middle East’s geopolitics?
Following the Assad regime’s collapse in Syria, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is asserting control in Damascus, aiming for interim governance. Despite optimism for stability, concerns about HTS’s intentions persist. Meanwhile, foreign influences shift, with Turkey, the U.S., and Israel gaining power, while Iran and Russia face diminished roles in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Paying the price for net zero
European nations are retreating from climate commitments, exacerbated by rising costs and societal resistance. The new UK government and Scotland have reduced climate targets amid challenges posed by defense spending and economic demands. Both the UK and Europe face crucial decisions about investing significantly in a green transition, requiring a comprehensive strategy beyond current proposals, and fostering a national dialogue on necessary changes.
Is Reform really overtaking Labour?
Much has been made of the news that Reform has overtaken Labour in voting intentions in a recent poll. The poll, produced by market research agency Find Out Now, put the Conservatives on 26%, Reform on 24% and Labour on 23%. Most recent polls show that Labour is still ahead of Reform, but only by a small […]
Lives of the massacred MacDonalds of Glen Coe
“Just as stories in the past offered lessons to those who would listen, there is a place for stories today to help us adjust to life in a changing world, inspiring resilience in the present through understanding how communities adapted to challenges in the past.”
A failure of leadership over Glasgow’s “Mack”
“A full restoration of the Mack can and must be done – and within years not decades. It will take political will. If leadership is there, the money can be found. Restoring the Mack is a chance to put money and commitment behind a project involving skilled work and training opportunities for the people of greater Glasgow and beyond.”