Stories from 12 February 2015
Hungry for a Meme? Try Japan's ‘English French Toast’
This isn't exactly high-end fusion food. The somewhat contradictory nature of the local Japanese treat's name has become a minor Internet meme.
A Tennis Star’s Twitter Conversation with an Argentinian President Parody Account
A famous tennis player thought she was talking to Argentina's president on Twitter last week, but she actually engaged a popular parody account.
The Honest, Controversial Profile of a Cuban Nurse Who Died Abroad
The article about Reynaldo Villafranca, who died of malaria, offered a human take on Cuban medical internationalism beyond the official narrative of heroism. Such honesty didn't sit well with everyone.
In Putin's Russia, a Retweet Can Lead to a Jail Term
Even a retweet of an image or a republished post may cost Russian citizens unfettered access to the Internet—and often, their freedom.
How the War in Ukraine Tears Apart Families and Friends Online
Bitterness is in the air, and bitterness affects personal relationships—so I wasn’t surprised when Eleonora told me how a formerly friendly Kiev colleague wished death upon her on Facebook.
5 Communities Sticking It to Fossil Fuel Companies—and Winning
From Chile's Maule coast to the Australian city of Marrickville, residents have been fighting to protect their communities from fossil fuel projects.
Goofy ‘Go Shopping Every Day’ Video Makes Serious Social Commentary About Hong Kong
The video captures the public's resentment towards police's excessive use of force. Production team Mocking Jer believes humor can help people understand what's happening in Hong Kong.
One Simple Infographic to Understand Political Repression in Thailand
Prachatai's infographic lists some of the ordinary activities the authorities have suppressed over the past nine months. The junta's paranoia runs deep.
Tajik Official Calls His President ‘the Sun’
In a republic often lacking electricity during the freezing months, Emomali Rahmon is 'the sun that turned the cold winter of the nation into a green spring.'
Afghans Relishing Their First Cricket World Cup
The Afghan national team is preparing for its first ever Cricket World Cup, an event that is being treasured by the country's diverse population.
