Captagon: The Stimulant of Syria

A well-known drug in the Middle East, captagon, has transformed Syria into a narcostate. The extensive production of this drug has affected militia, rebel groups, and surrounding countries. Now, as Syria is approaching readmission into the Arab League, President al-Assad is using his opportunity to crackdown on the illicit as a political bargaining chip. 

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Lithium Extraction and its Impacts on Indigenous Communities

Indigenous communities in the “lithium triangle” are advocating for the preservation of their way of life while protesting against the power structures that have continued to prioritize industries and corporations conducting lithium extraction.  It is imperative that the governments of Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile address the problem and prioritize the environment and rights of indigenous populations over business and profits.

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Republicans Put War in Mexico on the Menu

The Republican Party’s presidential hopefuls take a stand against the Mexican drug trade in their most recent rhetoric, calling for an American military intervention. This is a departure from former President Donald Trump’s ‘build a wall’ fantasy, but the xenophobic sentiments remain the same. This article examines whether this boots or missiles approach is a realistic expectation, or just another empty soapbox for the GOP candidates to stand on. 

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China’s Firm Hold on El Salvador’s Open Door

In Latin America, the presence of China has become an ever-growing affair of matchmaking between the Asian superpower and some of the world’s developing nations. In the present Bukele-era of El Salvador, an era characterized by doubled-down policies and a crackdown on the social and economic drawbacks, the amity of officials in Beijing has been welcomed with open arms.

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Rail Baltica: The Baltic Region's Transformative Infrastructure Project

For decades the Baltic States have been connected to Russia via a common rail gauge and Soviet influence. With the construction of Rail Baltica punctuating their realignment towards Europe, the potential positive impacts of this transformative project will reverberate not just through the Baltic region but throughout the European continent as a whole.

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The Power of Film: How South Korean Films Alter Legislation Over Pressing Domestic Social Issues

South Korean cinema, epitomized by 'Parasite,' 'Squid Game,' and 'The Glory,' has become a catalyst for societal change. These films have sparked legislative responses to issues like bullying and abuse, aided by South Korea's democratic system. Yet, challenges persist in defining and implementing reforms effectively. To address deeply ingrained problems, a reevaluation of traditional Confucian values is essential. Legislative changes must align with evolving societal needs.

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SkatePal: How Skate Culture is Impacting the Lives of Young Palestinians

This article discusses the importance of community spaces and engagement among Palestinian youth in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, especially when these communities have a higher exposure to conflict. The article specifically highlights the growing skateboarding culture facilitated by a non-profit called SkatePal.

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How Erdogan Became Turkey’s Teflon Don

Türkiye (formerly referred to as Turkey) has survived many tumultuous challenges throughout the 21st century. Coups, economic collapse, natural disasters, constitutional crises, and much more. One thing has remained certain however, Erdogan’s iron grip on power. The recent defeat of opposition candidate Kemal Kilicidaroglu has secured Erdogan another five years as the far-right authoritarian leader of Türkiye, a NATO member and the 19th largest economy in the world. This article aims to explain why Erdogan has become so untouchable despite his clear dishonesty and corruption. 

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Lack of Media Coverage: You Need to Know about the Tragedies along the Aegean Sea Coast

The rise of tragedies related to the migration of such a large number of people has become a common occurrence in the Aegean Sea. Following the 2015 refugee crisis of people fleeing persecution from countries such as Syria and Afghanistan to Central Europe through routes in the Mediterranean, there was a controversial rise among many European politicians regarding migration policies and refugees. This article will address the lack of media coverage with respect to failed migration attempts resulting in deaths of innocent refugees, asylum seekers, migrants, and internally displaced persons. 

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Increase of Anti-LGBT Prosecution and Laws Throughout Africa: LGBT Rights Continue to Stumble Across Africa

In May 2023, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni signed into law one of the most harmful LGBT laws globally. With the exception of South Africa, the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA) has found that most African nations have anti-LGBT laws or policies and often don’t provide fundamental rights for nonconforming individuals. On an LGBT rights scale, Africa is steadily behind other continents, threatening LGBT individuals and access to global funding.

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How Would Scottish Independence Complicate Global Security

Scotland and England have a long history, and have spent the last 300 years united under one government. With Scottish nationalism and want for independence on the rise, the potential negative effects of Scotland’s independence loom over the heads of not just Scotland and England, but the West as well.

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Ruto's Rise to the Top: A Betrayal of Working-Class Kenyans

As riots form throughout Kenya, the contradictory nature of William Ruto's new tax initiatives and their effect on the predominantly impoverished population is scrutinized. Ruto's campaign promise to champion the working class has given way to controversy, as his tax policies worsen existing economic disparities and trigger protests. This raises questions about whether Ruto can fulfill his pledge to bridge Kenya's wealth gap or if his approach using such policies will hinder progress in the country.

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