Read all posts from ‘Democracy on life support’

Here in the Middle East, people always point to the United States whenever they have any kind of problem. They either blame the U.S. for intervening in their countries national affairs, painting the U.S. as a criminal responsible for tragedies all over the world, or they praise the way the […]

The ongoing trial of several high-ranking public officials in Brazil involved in the mensalão scandal – a widespread corruption scheme – has caught the attention of the Brazilian and international media. In particular, The Economist has covered this issue in pieces that provide a balanced background for the non-Brazilian reader, while […]

In 2008, Bhutan completed one of the most peaceful – and ironic – transitions  to democracy. Initiated by the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the process involved a voluntary abdication of power in the face of public opposition to democracy. Imagine the living embodiment of a Platonic Philosopher King, someone universally […]

Barely a week into London’s post-Olympic stupor, before the stardust had settled, a lanky, middle-aged man emerged on the ground-floor balcony of a white stucco-fronted, red-brick building on Hans Crescent, Knightsbridge. The flowing snowy hair had been replaced by a crew cut, but there was no mistaking the body language—this […]

“It’s not fair that I am free, but the law supports me,” said 16-year old Borislav shortly after he was released from detention. “I am very grateful there’re so many loopholes in the system.” A little over a year ago, he killed the 12-year old Tzvetan at a tram stop […]