Worldwide
India: world’s biggest election explained
On 19 April Indians commenced voting for their next parliament, with Narendra Modi seeking a third term. Opinion polls favour his BJP party and its allies over an opposition alliance of over two dozen parties including…
Niger / Benin: oil starts to flow along pipeline
Despite strained diplomatic ties, Benin is hoping for revenue from transit duties and taxes on Nigerien oil passing through Sémè Kraké. The site marks the terminus of a 1,980km pipeline from Niger's Agadem oil fields; oil…
Climate change: Asia most affected
The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has reported that Asia bore the brunt of climate change and weather-related disasters in 2023. Floods and storms caused significant casualties and economic damage, while heatwaves intensified. Asia's temperature rose almost…
Mexico: angry farmers target thirsty avocado orchards
In Mexico's drought-stricken Michoacan state, subsistence farmers are taking direct action against commercial farms, particularly avocado orchards, which are depleting water sources. Angry residents have organised teams to remove illegal water pumps and breach unlicensed irrigation…
