Beyond Tribal Politics
Independent journalism and commentary on politics, society, culture, climate and Scotland’s future.
Scotland’s road to net zero: how far, so far?
Scotland has ambitious targets to reach net zero by 2045 and, so far, we are falling behind in the cuts to emissions…
Climate change and farming
“The prizes in terms of turning farming into a low emissions sector are significant, and necessary, to meet Scotland’s climate change targets.…
Energy efficiency could boost economy and jobs
A no-brainer ahead of #COP26: “The UK’s buildings account for 17% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. Making them more energy efficient…
How the first African American doctor fought for women’s rights in Glasgow
“McCune Smith’s activism showed aspiring African Americans that becoming a professional black physician could be more than simply treating patients. For him, being an…
Would Scots vote for indy? What’s the question…!
Could the outcome of a second Scottish independence referendum depend on the precise wording of the ballot question? Rob Ford, Rob Johns, and John…
A kind of healing: poetry for endings and beginnings
How and when do you mark the passing of a pandemic which is not yet done? Politicians stumble, their messages swaying between…
National Care Service: adequately funded?
“We hope that a clear, transparent, assessment of financial requirements, that meets with consensus from those who know, work for and draw…
A Welsh rethink
A conversation about a future which has already been decided from the top won’t encourage people to talk. Genuine consensus must emerge…
Not up to the courts
Whether or not Scotland can legally hold a referendum without the consent of Westminster has provoked much debate. Ciaran Martin argues that…
Christie can’t wait another decade
“For now, there’s a mismatch between the Scottish Government’s vision of a more successful Scotland – where poverty is reduced, and economic growth is sustainable…
Emerging from the shadows
“Opportunities for Labour arise from an SNP that excels in performative politics but fails in policy performance. The respective and competing nationalisms…
SNP-Scottish Greens deal: key takeaways
‘The risks are higher for the Greens than they are for the SNP. Voters are likely to see any failure of government…