Can Ayahuasca, the ‘sacred plant’ of the Amazon, help addiction and depression
Ayahuasca, the “sacred plant” of the Amazon, has garnered increasing attention in recent years for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in addressing addiction and depression. Derived from a combination of plants indigenous to the Amazon basin, ayahuasca has been used…
Paraguay’s population is booming, but where are all the jobs
Paraguay, nestled in the heart of South America, is experiencing a significant population surge. However, this demographic expansion is accompanied by a pressing question: where are all the jobs? As the population grows, so does the demand for employment opportunities,…
The small hands of Moroccan recycling
In the labyrinthine alleys of Moroccan cities, where the clamor of daily life intertwines with the aroma of spices and the colors of vibrant markets, there exists a silent army of small hands tirelessly working towards a greener future. These…
In Argentina, the Supreme Court spurs national outrage with leniency for a ‘Dirty War’ criminal
In Argentina, the wounds of the Dirty War, a period of state-sponsored violence and repression from 1976 to 1983, run deep. Decades later, justice for the victims and their families remains an ongoing struggle. However, recent events have reignited national…
The year the world turned its back on free trade
In recent years, the world has witnessed a notable shift in attitudes towards free trade, marked by a resurgence of protectionist policies and nationalist sentiments. This departure from the principles of open markets and globalization has significant implications for global…
Exaggerating the value of wetlands for natural disaster mitigation is a risky business
Wetlands, often overlooked and undervalued, are nature’s unsung heroes in the battle against natural disasters. They have long been portrayed as mere swamps or wastelands, but beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of ecological, economic, and social benefits. However,…
A history of Dutch populism, from the murder of Pim Fortuyn to the rise of Geert Wilders
Dutch politics witnessed a seismic shift in the early 21st century with the emergence of populist figures who tapped into growing discontent among the electorate. This transformation began with the tragic assassination of Pim Fortuyn in 2002 and culminated in…
Seeking more power, Thailand’s new king is moving the country away from being a constitutional monarchy
Amidst the historic tapestry of Thailand’s political landscape, the threads of power have always been intricately woven between the monarchy and the state. Yet, recent years have witnessed a notable shift in this delicate balance, with the ascension of King…
Recovering after a false start? What’s the state of play for Brisbane’s 2032 Olympic and Paralympic planning?
In July 2021, Brisbane’s bid for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games was met with jubilation as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) awarded the Australian city the hosting rights. However, this initial enthusiasm soon faced setbacks as the COVID-19 pandemic…
Mosul will only recover if we heed the lessons of the US invasion
The city of Mosul, once a thriving cultural and economic hub in Iraq, has been ravaged by conflict, most notably during the US invasion of 2003 and the subsequent battles against ISIS. As efforts to rebuild the city continue, it…