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Although fierce repression by the Algerian authorities had caused 100 deaths by the start of July, it did nothing to stop the revolt by angry Algerians. It started on 18 April in Kabylia, after gendarmes in Beni Douala murdered a young secondary-school pupil, Massinissa Guermah, whose name is symbolic (1). It is not surprising that the latest uprising should have started in a traditionally rebellious, culturally distinct part of Algeria. In 1871 it was the scene of a vast revolt, savagely (...)
Translated by Harry Forster
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RIOTS ON THE STREETS
Last summer and this there have been riots in the streets and on urban
estates in France and England, barely explained by the attendant media, yet
clearly connected with angry young males, many of them second
generation immigrants from former colonies, reacting to rightwing
provocation or perceived police prejudice. The rioters very often are in work
and have even achieved some prosperity. So what is happening?
Translated by Harry Forster
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COLD WAR GOVERNMENT WITH NO WAR TO FIGHT
US President George W Bush made his first official visit abroad this
summer. Europe was his chosen destination, but he decided not to stop in London, Paris or Berlin. The transatlantic climate has been chilly in
recent months, with differences on the death penalty and the environment (especially the Kyoto protocol) and muted disagreement on the revival of a strategic defence initiative that threatens the treaties on disarmament signed with Moscow. The Republicans’ loss of their majority in the Senate could
diminish their control over foreign policy. But one aspect of Washington’s
programme will remain intact: while public spending is about to feel the effects of slowing growth and tax cuts, the defence budget is set to rise.
Translated by Barbara Wilson
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The Bush administration is shifting the direction of US strategic thinking.
Priority will be given to the technological race and to the development and
deployment of flexible, hi-tech forces capable of intervening anywhere in the
world, to ensure the lasting primacy of US armed forces.
Original text in English
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REGIONALISM IS AN ADMISSION OF DEFEAT
The revolt by angry young Algerians started in Kabylia and then spread to other
parts of the country despite countermeasures that claimed 100 lives. They, and
other Algerians, reject the corrupt, arrogant clique clinging to power. Recent
summit-meeting statements suggest Europe may finally have perceived the
realities, too.
Translated by Harry Forster
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NEW MONSANTO AND GMO PROPAGANDA
Multinationals like Monsanto are facing real grassroots opposition in the world,
especially over agro-chemicals and GMOs. Monsanto has led the big corporations towards diversionary tactics: they have issued codes of conduct and ethical charters to conceal their real objective of creating value for their
shareholders. They are promoting their products as cures for third world hunger
and disease, and as an alternative to the dangers of pesticides. They hope to win over a hostile public with advertising.
Translated by Malcolm Greenwood
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SOUTHERN SICKNESS, NORTHERN MEDICINE
After years of lethargy the international community has declared war on Aids.
Following a special session of the UN in June and the G8 summit in July, a fund
will be set up by the end of the year. But the agreement being negotiated with the pharmaceutical industry may fail to provide much-needed care for millions in the South.
Translated by Malcolm Greenwood
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NEW OFFENSIVE AGAINST INTELLECTUALS
Many of Hungary’s intellectuals are desperately poor and have to take several
jobs; they are under pressure from the government of Victor
Orban, who is encouraging nationalists and flirting with the far right.
Translated by Ed Emery
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A TOUR OF THE BIG ISLAND
Elections for governors were held on 10 June in the six provinces of Madagascar,
one of the world’s poorest nations. The provinces hope for benefits from new
powers of autonomy that have been granted by the national constitution. The reforms are meant to bridge the gap between ordinary Madagascans and the government’s decision-makers, and to stimulate economic growth in regions far from the caprices of the capital city. But little has changed yet in the provinces.
Translated by Luke Sandford
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AFTER THE TROOPS WITHDRAW, DEEP DEBT
Most Syrian troops have withdrawn from Beirut and the surrounding area without official remark. Lebanese politicians have been openly critical of Syria’s military presence, especially since Israel’s withdrawal from south Lebanon. But ordinary Lebanese are more concerned with the economy.
Translated by Wendy Kristianasen
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ISRAEL OR PALESTINE: WHO TEACHES WHAT HISTORY?
The Israelis have withdrawn from the school curriculum a textbook giving a
balanced view of the nation’s history, only a few months after international media accused the Palestinian Authority of using anti-semitic schoolbooks. These did have omissions, but their real error was to refute Israel’s version of Palestinian history.
Translated by Wendy Kristianasen
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BACKDOOR MANOEUVRES
When internet problems are raised, racism, paedophilia and terrorism are talked about - and, in the same breath, counterfeit and piracy. A worldwide debate on intellectual property is under way. Why does the Council of Europe’s proposed convention on cybercrime seek to criminalise infringements of intellectual property rights?
Translated by Ed Emery