Welcome to Edition II !
This month we delve into the heart of African conflicts, pivotal changes within international alliances, views on cultural criticism, and introduce a new Elections Update section.
From the violent disputes in the DRC over valuable minerals, to the cold expanses of the Arctic, we explore a cauldron of military conflicts, diplomatic disputes, and economic challenges. Europe’s political theatre is no less dramatic, with the European Parliament’s legal action against the Commission over funds for Hungary and Sweden’s recent NATO membership. The Arctic and Antarctic regions receive special attention for their growing strategic significance (and my personal interest as I struggle to finish my dissertation…), with discussions on Russia’s ambitions and the potential for these un-touched environments to become geopolitical battlegrounds.
We also pause to reflect on the cultural and intellectual landscapes shaped by politics and power. From debates over media ownership and the influence of foreign states to the transformative role of technology and art in society. Also, discussion on the role of languages in our society spotlight that it is more than just a matter of communication - we examine its fundamental role in cultural identity and power dynamics.
Finally, in what I hope you will find a ‘riveting read’, we uncover the astonishing double life of Jan Marsalek in a spy thriller-like investigation, which reads as a surprising revelation of blurry lines between corporate fraud and international espionage.
I hope you enjoy and a special thanks to all those who shared their personal recommendations with me this month!
Constance