Spain / Portugal: cause of massive power cut still not known
A widespread power cut on 28 April disrupted millions across Spain and Portugal, prompting investigations and huge public concern. Portugal’s national grid operator, REN, attributed the blackout to a rare atmospheric phenomenon which…
Italy: social media tourists overwhelm ski resort
A surge of ten thousand unexpected day-trippers overwhelmed the Italian ski resort of Roccaraso after viral social media posts promoted the area’s heavy snowfall. Influencer Rita De Crescenzo’s videos encouraged budget tour companies…
DRC: crucial elections complicated by technical problems
On 20 December, amid widespread delays and logistical complications, polling stations opened in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Because of the delays, it was decided to extend the voting for a second…
Nigeria: police chief vows to take back streets
Protests against police brutality subsided after a violent crackdown: see Now the police chief has ordered more police resources after the curfew gave way to widespread vandalism and looting, including government food warehouses…
Prison service - chaos
Chaos in the wings, lack of respect from management, and absence of support are among the reasons for the surge in prison officers resigning. 33% of outgoing officers in the past 12 months…
