Author: vidarshna

Rights were violated as Anders Behring Breivik’s name became synonymous with a horrifying act of violence in July 2011, shaking the world. He perpetrated Norway’s worst peacetime atrocity, killing 77 people, most of them teenagers, through a combination of shootings and a bombing attack. After his conviction, Breivik was sentenced to serve 21 years in prison, which can be extended if he remains a threat to society. Amid this sentence, he is now suing the Norwegian state for allegedly violating his human rights by subjecting him to “extreme isolation.” Additionally, he has applied for parole, a move that raises complex…

The Sahel region of Africa, marked by poverty, instability, and conflict, is once again grappling with the crisis. Recent military takeovers, rising anti-French sentiment, and the proliferation of violent armed groups have made the region a “coup belt” and a hotspot for global terrorism. The legacy of French colonialism and perceived failures of Western interventions have fueled public support for military coups and armed groups. This article delves into the complexities of the Sahel crisis, France’s role, and the need for a strategic shift to address the region’s challenges. The Sahel’s Converging Crises The Sahel, encompassing some of the world’s…

The recent assassination of Fernando Villavicencio, a prominent Ecuadorean presidential candidate, has sent shockwaves through the nation. As authorities grapple with the aftermath of the tragic event, the involvement of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the investigation has highlighted the severity of the situation. With violent crime on the rise due to transnational criminal gangs, Ecuador is facing a critical moment that could redefine its future. Fernando Villavicencio: A Fearless Voice Against Corruption and Crime Fernando Villavicencio, a 59-year-old ex-lawmaker and investigative journalist, was not a stranger to controversy. His unyielding commitment to uncovering corruption and organized…

As the world approaches the two-year anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan, a haunting reality emerges once again – the relentless suppression of Afghan women’s rights. Gordon Brown, former British Prime Minister and current UN Special Envoy for Global Education, has stepped forward with a resounding condemnation, labeling the Taliban’s systematic abuse of women and girls a “crime against humanity.” The Unrelenting Struggle of Afghan Women The Taliban’s rise to power in 2021 has marked a disheartening regression in the status of Afghan women. The initial promise of a more tempered rule has given way to an…

The simmering tensions between China and the Philippines have once again brought the South China Sea into the global spotlight. The recent dispute centers around a grounded warship at Ren’ai Reef, a contested maritime territory. Beijing’s call for the immediate removal of the warship and the Philippines’ alleged attempts to reinforce its position on the reef have raised concerns about regional stability and international maritime norms. This article delves into the escalating situation, examining the conflicting claims, diplomatic maneuverings, and broader implications for international relations in the hotly contested waters of the South China Sea. Diplomatic Spat Over Grounded Warship…

China’s latest eight-part documentary, “Chasing Dreams,” aired on state broadcaster CCTV, has sent shockwaves across the region. The series commemorates the 96th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and offers a troubling glimpse into the army’s preparation for a potential attack on Taiwan. Featuring military drills and testimonials from devoted soldiers, the documentary highlights China’s unyielding claim over Taiwan and serves as a propaganda tool to fan rising Chinese nationalism. PLA’s Bold Pledges to Sacrifice Lives “Chasing Dreams” showcases PLA soldiers expressing their unwavering loyalty and readiness to make the ultimate sacrifice if a conflict with Taiwan were to…

Israel’s actions towards the Palestinian people have been the topic of considerable discussion and condemnation in the world arena in recent decades. Since the mid-20th century, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a key problem in the area, with both parties alleging historical and legitimate rights to the territory. The Roots of Israel’s Current Political Crisis In recent times, the notion that Israel’s domestic political turmoil is deeply connected to its policies toward the Palestinian people has gained significant momentum. Over the course of 75 years, Israel’s approach to the Palestinian question, particularly its authoritarian legislative agenda, and methods, has been…

In a dramatic and unprecedented display of force, residents of Cabañas, a primarily rural region in El Salvador, woke up to a scene of turmoil and tension as President Nayib Bukele unleashed a massive military operation targeting powerful criminal gangs. The primary targets were the notorious Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gangs, which have contributed to making El Salvador one of the deadliest countries in the world per capita. The sheer magnitude of the operation left residents in shock as they witnessed 8,000 soldiers and police patrolling the streets, their presence dominating the otherwise serene landscapes. President Bukele’s decision…

The close negotiations between India and the UK for a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) have entered the final stage, with the 12th round of talks scheduled for August. The impending FTA holds the promise of significantly boosting economic ties between the two nations, creating new avenues for trade and investment. As both sides aim to conclude the negotiations before the end of the year, let’s delve deeper into the key areas of discussion and the potential impact of this agreement on bilateral trade. The Road to a Free Trade Agreement The journey towards a comprehensive FTA between India and…

In a remarkable turn of events, leaders of the Taliban recently engaged in a historic meeting with officials from the United States in Qatar. This marked the first time the two sides came together since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan two years ago. During the intensive two-day talks, they delved into critical matters aimed at fostering confidence between the parties involved. The agenda encompassed pressing issues such as the lifting of sanctions and travel bans, the return of Afghan central bank assets held abroad, countering narcotics, and addressing human rights concerns. It is worth noting that, despite their…