Stories about Eastern & Central Europe from January, 2010
Poland: Social Network's Logo “Raises Controversy”
Polish social network Nasza-Klasa seems to be doing a re-branding, but some of its users - and some in the Polish media, too - seem to see something of a conspiracy there. Sylwia Presley explains the situation.
Slovakia, Hungary: Happy New Year!
The relations between the two neighboring countries, Slovakia and Hungary, went bad last year - but some Slovak and Hungarian citizens are trying to improve the situation by launching an online campaign called "Štastný nový rok, Slovensko! / Boldog Új Évet Magyarország!" ("Happy New Year, Slovakia!/Happy New Year, Hungary!).
Russian TV Shows Cartoon Putin and Medvedev Singing Limericks
A cartoon showing Russian president and prime minister singing limericks about the current issues in Russian politics became a hot topic on the blogosphere. The cartoon was aired on the state-controlled TV channel ORT as a part of the New Year show .
Russian Parliament Start Broadcasting Online
The Russian parliament starts broadcasting its sessions online from January 1, 2010, Gzt.ru reports [RUS]. It's believed that these initiatives would increase transparency of political processes in Russia.
Russia: Blogger Arrested for Weapon Possession
Russian police found illegal weapons at an apartment of a famous blogger Timofey Shevyakov ( LJ user tarlith-history), information agency Rosbalt reports [RUS]. Shevyakov is allegedly connected to various propagandist, trolling and hacker groups in Russia.
Video: Year End Traditions and Rituals
Around the world, people celebrate the arrival of the New Year with certain traditions. Today, through video we bring you some of the traditions and rituals people follow to improve their luck, fortune or other details in their life for the coming year.
Russia: Bloggers Cover Opposition Rally
First photographs from a Russian opposition rally in Moscow emerged on the Internet just hours after the event. The pictures are available on the blogs of LJ users drugoj and zyalt.