Beyond Tribal Politics
Independent journalism and commentary on politics, society, culture, climate and Scotland’s future.
Making sense of politics in “these islands”
When it comes to the Union: “Big things are happening but, in the midst of change, their shape and significance has yet…
Welfare reforms: the (unknown) Scottish dimension
“The Scottish Government’s block grant adjustment is based on the projected expenditure in England and Wales, and therefore a tightening of access…
What are Labour governments for? The aid issue
“Leading where others follow, Trump has cut US foreign aid. By 83%. It is hard, in the new age of transactional, personalistic, international…
Irish neutrality comes under question
The Dáil’s failure to establish committees for government scrutiny is alarming amid shifting international relations. The discourse includes critiques on Irish neutrality,…
The UK needs a reformed second chamber
Nicola Sturgeon announced her decision not to run in the next Holyrood election, echoing sentiments from other longstanding MSPs. The House of…
Trump’s negotiation tactics: a business mindset in a diplomatic world
The confrontation between U.S. President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy illustrates the risks of prioritizing immediate national interests over foundational principles in…
What the ferries fiasco means for Arran
The launch of MV Glen Sannox marks a significantly delayed step towards improving ferry services between Arran and the Scottish mainland. Uncertainty…
Insurgent, disruptive or flailing Labour?
A six-hour cabinet meeting last Friday appears to have done little to give the flailing Labour government much of a new strategy.…
Fiscal sustainability and the Scottish budget
The draft Scottish Budget raised concerns regarding financial planning, particularly about the Funding shortfall for Employer National Insurance and the late commitment…
Yesterday’s robber barons can teach today’s oligarchs about responsibilities of wealth
Mark Zuckerberg’s recent display of wealth, exemplified by a lavish wristwatch, prompts parallels between today’s tech billionaires and the “robber barons” of…
Why populists are winning: broken promises of liberal democracy
The article discusses the rise of extreme right populism in Europe, highlighting how dissatisfaction with democracy drives voters towards populist alternatives. It…
