Stories about Feature from May, 2015
The Gold Rush for Himalayan Viagra Begins in Nepal
People in Karnali region of Nepal leave their villages in search for the caterpillar-fungus fusion known as the Himalayan Viagra that is more expensive than gold.
After 33 years, Cuba Is Off the US List of Countries Sponsoring Terrorism
The list is reserved for nations that, according to the US government, repeatedly provide support for international acts of premeditated, politically motivated violence against non-combatants.
Tagline of Zelalem Kiberet’s Blog: ‘Let Freedom Ring’
Because of his wit, humorous writings and uncompromising digs on religion, his friends nicknamed Zelalem after the imminent French writer, Zola.
Hungary Lays the Xenophobia on Thick in National Questionnaire About Immigration
The questionnaire seems to be more of a tool to influence public opinion than to weigh it. Civil society organizations are speaking out against the government's rhetoric.
Pakistan's Media is Silent as Hundreds Protest Government Gag on Bol News Group
Despite protests by journalists outside the Karachi Press Club, Pakistan's vibrant but cutthroat broadcast media industry has been mostly silent on the government's gag on Bol, a new media outlet.
No Extra Time for FIFA Caribbean Officials as US Justice Department Lays Indictments
There's a frenzy on Caribbean social media today, following the announcement that the US Department of Justice indicted 9 FIFA officials and 5 corporate executives for racketeering, conspiracy, and corruption.
Political Memes, Welcome to Myanmar
The era of Internet memes has arrived in Myanmar, where the online phenomenon has become a popular way to discuss various social and political topics, particularly upcoming elections.
A Guide to Resources on the Palestinian Nakba, Memory and Identity
Joey Ayoub digs into a list of resources to learn about the 1948 Palestinian exodus, also known as the Nakba, as well as memory and identity.
Dying in Secret: The Ethics of Investigating Russia's Ukraine Casualties
A new type of investigative journalism by bloggers is blurring the lines between armchair Internet sleuthing and hard-hitting investigative reporting to uncover information about Russia's role in the Ukraine conflict.
Leaked Emails Reveal Details of China's Online ‘Youth Civilization Volunteers’
'Speak out in a timely way and positively guide mistaken opinions and thoughts in order to grow mainstream thought and sentiment on the Internet.'
In Argentina, a March on the ‘Global Day of Action Against Monsanto’
"In #Argentina 300 million liters of glyphosate are sprayed annually across 28 million hectares of plantation, affecting more than 10 million people."
Thailand Police Detains Student Protesters During Coup Anniversary
"We cannot build a democratic society if we lack freedom, liberty, rights, justice, and reconciliation."
Message to an Ethiopian Blogger: Mahlet Fantahun, You Are Not Alone
"Writing one single blog post is not going to bring Mahlet... out of Kaliti Prison. This is much rather about keeping the process going. Of not staying silent."
Have Bullets Killed the Future of Venezuela's Youth?
In a country like Venezuela, where murder is the leading cause of death among people between the ages of 10 and 19, what hopes can younger generations have?
Why Are Latin Americans Naming Their Children ‘Onur’ and ‘Sherezade'?
One Thousand and One Nights, a Turkish drama series, enjoys incredible success in the Mecca of soap operas: Latin America. But what questions does this success raise?
Russia Launches ‘Predictive System’ for Monitoring Protest Activity Online
The new Russian software will allegedly be able to spot preparations for protests online long before they happen, and could supply that information to law enforcement, academics and state officials.
Thailand’s Section 44 Could Be Worse Than Martial Law
Thailand is no longer under martial law, but a new security law gave the army broad and 'unlimited' powers in the civilian government.
‘Lipstick Protester’ Jasmina Golubovska: Macedonians Want to ‘Start from Scratch’
A Reuters photo turned Golubovska's lipstick into a symbol of the mass protests in Macedonia. But there is nothing cosmetic about citizens' demand for change.
Atena Farghadani Goes on Trial Tomorrow in Iran for Her Cartoon About Access to Contraception
The cartoon that sparked her arrest depicts members of parliament as animals. She is charged with spreading propaganda against the system, insulting members of parliament and insulting the supreme leader.
Meet the Brazilian Congressman Trying to Christianize the Internet, One Domain Name at a Time
Eduardo Cunha, leader of the lower house, spends around $2,600 per year maintaining net domains. Of his 288 addresses, 154 carry the name of Jesus Christ.
Rohingya Boat Refugees Rejected by Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia
"Action on #Rohingya is a real test of character for #ASEAN. Are we compassionate or heartless nations?"