Author: Yvonne Murray
President Michael D. Higgins is set to address the United Nations’ ‘Summit of the Future’ in New York, a gathering convened by UN Secretary General António Guterres to reform the UN and plan for future challenges. President Higgins will speak on issues such as inequality, hunger, poverty, and climate change affecting the world’s poorest nations. He will also condemn the “narrow interests” and “abuses of power” that have weakened the UN since its inception in 1945. Apart from his speech at the summit, President Higgins will engage in bi-lateral meetings during the UN General Assembly high-level week. Taoiseach Simon Harris…
The US and Mexico are caught in a water war amidst strained relations over migration and drug-trafficking. Mexico has fallen behind on delivering water from the Rio Grande, causing anger among American politicians and farmers. Texan Senators have drafted legislation to withhold federal aid if Mexico fails to meet its water obligations. Mexican authorities blame lack of rainfall and extreme heat, but Texas officials argue that Mexico has sufficient water reserves. This dispute is part of a larger trend of international water conflicts. Mexican conservationists call for re-negotiation of unfair water treaties, while US activists emphasize the need for equal…
Kamala Harris is a trailblazer, breaking barriers and making history at every turn. From being the first woman of colour elected as Attorney General of California to becoming the first woman, woman of colour, and woman of Indian descent to serve as US Vice President, Harris has consistently shattered glass ceilings. Despite facing criticism and challenges, Harris has always stood firm in her beliefs and fought for what she believes in. Whether grilling political opponents at Senate hearings or advocating fiercely for women’s reproductive rights, Harris has never shied away from controversy. As the Democratic Party’s nominee for President, Harris…
In the cut-throat world of American politics, showing weakness is a cardinal sin, especially for the Democrats. After a lackluster performance in the recent debate, Joe Biden’s team is left scrambling to salvage their image. The Democrats had hoped to showcase Biden’s leadership skills and contrast them with the risks posed by a potential Trump comeback. However, Biden’s shaky delivery and disjointed responses stole the spotlight, overshadowing Trump’s usual bombastic rhetoric. The fallout was swift, with party insiders openly criticizing Biden’s performance. Calls for him to step aside grew louder, raising doubts about the Democrats’ unity and direction. Despite the…
This past week, record-breaking temperatures swept across the Midwest and Northeast of the US, putting tens of millions of Americans under heat advisories. As demand for air conditioning surged, the electricity grid struggled to keep up in some areas, leading to the firing up of heavily polluting “peaker plants”. In Texas, the oil and gas industry reported record levels of production amid the scorching heat. The extreme temperatures were attributed to a “heat dome” caused by greenhouse gases trapping hot air in place. New York City Mayor Eric Adams warned of more frequent and intense heat due to climate change.…
After the UN Security Council endorsed a ceasefire to end the war in Gaza, hopes were high for peace, but uncertainties persist. Despite the approval of the three-phase peace plan by 14 members, including the US, doubts arose as Israel’s acceptance was muddled, and Hamas’ stance remained unclear. President Biden expressed confidence in the deal but emphasized Hamas’ role in reaching a ceasefire. Analysts noted that neither Netanyahu nor Hamas leader Sinwar appear keen on ending the war, as it does not align with their interests. As global pressure mounts, with UN actions highlighting war crimes committed, the situation remains…