Articles
Friday, September 27, 2019
At the height of the Cold War the US government through the CIA established the Congress for Cultural Freedom which promoted anti-communist propaganda. It funded magazines, conferences and artistic festivals. The CCF was the front for this secret programme designed ultimately to support capitalist values and the US way of life. In pursuit of this it sponsored many well-known artists, writers and musicians.
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
In common with other recent "free" trade deals, the Trans-Pacific Partnership favours big companies over people. It abolishes democracy and national sovereignty by enabling courts to over-rule governments at the behest of corporations. The struggle against the TTP in Chile united many diverse movements and politicians, changing the political scene there.
Tuesday, June 25, 2019
May has been forced out at last, unable to sell her unpopular Brexit deal to parliament. The two leadership contenders to replace her both promise to carry through on Brexit, yet that is not what the ruling class wants. While this saga drags on in Britain, the EU continues to get on with other business, mainly jockeying for the top jobs post the EU elections and dealing with its own internal conflicts.
Wednesday, June 19, 2019
The European Union is often portrayed as a harmonious, collaborative body but take a closer look and there are many disputes between member states and with other countries. in particular there are growing tensions with the United States over its tech war with China and spending on NATO.
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
The major powers are once again competing over Africa. Like the earlier Scramble for Africa between 1881 and 1914 – when the European imperialists divided up 90% of the continent between them – this is about gaining valuable resources and controlling them against rivals.
Saturday, June 15, 2019
The US and others are tightening the screws on Venezuela with sanctions and threats of invasion. They do not want a peaceful resolution of the country's problems, but are aiming at regime change. Despite being sponsored by the US, the anti-democratic right wing opposition failed in a recent coup attempt against the government.
Friday, June 14, 2019
This is the 60th anniversary of the Cuban revolution, which has brought incredible gains for the people of Cuba. Its internationalism has also meant that it has spread those gains - health, literacy, disaster relief, liberation - beyond the shores of the island. Millions of people across the world have benefited. in the past Cuba has survived enormous challenges and now faces new ones.
Thursday, June 13, 2019
The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement has carefully targeted its campaigns to highlight Israeli injustice against the Palestinian people. One measure of its success is the Israeli response which, while trying to close the campaign down, in fact only draws further attention to Israeli actions.