Stories about Weblog from June, 2014
Google's Eric Schmidt Makes a Surprise Visit to Cuba to Promote Internet Freedom
If the US wants change, it should empower Cubans with smartphones, encourage freedom of expression and give them information tools, Schmidt said.
How the Philippine President Managed to Anger Film Legend Nora Aunor's Legions of Fans
The Filipina actress who starred in one of the most memorable Asian films has been nominated for the National Artist title. But the Philippine president rejected the nomination.
Two Killed as Egypt's Government Fails to Notice Militant Group's Blatant Bombing Warning Online
Egyptian police came under fire after failing to act on a terror threat posted online, with the location of today's bomb explosions, which killed two officers.
Why Some Taiwanese Activists Are Accusing This Hotel of Caving to Political Pressure from China
Hotel Novotel found itself a target of criticism after management disrupted a protest against the minister of China's Taiwan Affairs Office. Some Taiwanese fear closer ties with their communist neighbor.
A Kissing Sit-In and An Open Letter for LGBT Rights in Cuba
The second "Kiss Sit-In for Diversity and Equality" in Havana takes place this year during challenging moments for the LGBT community on the Island.
The Lights and the Shadows of the New Cuban Labor Code
The new Labor Code in Cuba has sparked controversy because it excludes important protections in the workplace for certain marginalized communities, such as transsexual people.
It's Official: Puerto Rico's First Openly Lesbian Judge Has Been Appointed to the Supreme Court
While some deny that her sexual orientation is relevant, others insist that it plays a fundamental role in what she can bring to the table.
France Sees Escape From Russian Energy Dependence in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan, wishing to reduce energy dependency on Russia, welcomes French president for talks.
Cameroon's Marc Vivien Foé, ‘One of the Greatest Talents Ever in Football’
More than a decade ago, Marc Vivien Foé collapsed and died at the Stade Gerland in Lyon, France, during the Confederations Cup semi-final game between Cameroon and Columbia.
Beyond the World Cup Headlines: Iran's Lacking Team Spirit, but Brazil's Favelas Have Plenty
You have to know more than just football to understand the World Cup. Deji Olukotun gives a play-by-play of the important free expression and human rights issues.
In Syria We Have All Become Killers
What do you feel when the security checkpoint where your mother was killed is destroyed in a bombing?
Singing and Dancing in a YouTube Video to Cheer On the National Football Team Can Get You Arrested in Iran
"Goal Iran" includes clips of Iranians in more than a dozen countries singing and dancing. Iranian police call it "vulgar."
Uruguay's Bad Boy Footballer Luis Suárez Steals His Team's Thunder With Biting Sanction
Uruguay advanced, but everyone was talking about star player Luis Suárez chomping on Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini's shoulder.
Mexican Football Coach Miguel ‘Piojo’ Herrera Knows How to Celebrate a World Cup Win
Miguel “Piojo” Herrera, Mexico's coach, became the hero of the team's victory against Croatia for his passionate reactions during the match.
A Masked Superhero Is Riding Around This Colombian City and Feeding the Hungry
He is known as Super Pan (Super Bread, in English), and he gives bread to those who need it in the Colombian city of Bucaramanga.
How a Local Newspaper in India Is Empowering Rural Women to Write About Their Communities
Khabar Lahariya is an award-winning rural weekly newspaper published in local languages and run by 40 women. We spoke with editorial coordinator Poorvi Bhargava to find out more.
Meet Xiaobing, the (Fun? Annoying? Creepy?) Chatbot Taking Over China's Weibo
Microsoft's artificial intelligence robot, which is modeled after a 16-year-old girl, has found new life on Twitter-like Sina Weibo after being blocked on messaging app WeChat earlier this month.
Jurassic Park Opening Sparks Fury In Peru Town Without Running Water
In a Peruvian dirt town without running water or a sewerage system, the construction of a dinosaur theme park is underway.
What Would Buddha Do? Not Attack Sri Lankan Muslims, Buddhists Say
Hardline Buddhist organization Bodu Bala Sena's anti-Muslim rhetoric has fueled deadly riots in Sri Lanka. The group is vocal, but Buddhists are speaking out against them on and offline.
How a Protest to Reinstate a University Professor Relaunched Jamaica's Gay Rights Debate
Jamaica's moral compass is on overdrive ever since the dismissal of Professor Brendan Bain. The controversy continues to fuel the debate over gay rights in an infamously homophobic country.
This Film Is About the Remarkable Friendship Between a Buddhist and Muslim in Myanmar. So Why All the Hate?
A human rights festival in Myanmar cancelled a screening of the documentary "The Open Sky" after receiving threats on social media accusing the film of being a Muslim conspiracy.
