Stories from 11 January 2017
For Telegram Users, Iran's Registration Requirement Boosts State Snooping Powers
Telegram is Iran’s most popular messaging application and host to some 170,000 Iranian-owned channels. The new policy will require owners of popular channels to register with the government.
‘Most Efficient Trial in History’ Fines Serbian Magazine for Defamation of Interior Minister
"How can a journalist be 'unauthorised' to do their job: gathering information and suggesting conclusions based on the gathered evidence?"
As Trash Piles Up in Russian Town, Mayor's Spokesperson Says Locals Are a Bunch of ‘Pigs’
There’s a quiet place called Yugorsk. Located in Russia's Khanty–Mansi Autonomous Okrug, Yugorsk is a flat, forested, relatively affluent town. In Yugorsk, the people are as dirty as pigs.
Will 2017 Be a Year of Political Change in Angola? Most Think Not.
After 37 years in office is President José Eduardo dos Santos really going to step back from power, as he seemed to announce?
Users Boycott Lebanon’s Mobile Phone Operators, Alfa and touch
In addition to the exorbitant mobile rates highlighted by this campaign, cell phone operators in Lebanon also engage in unethical practices.
In Venezuela, a Conductor's Lack of Political Opinion Hits a Sour Note in Some Circles
The "apolitical" position of celebrated musician Gustavo Dudamel is unacceptable for many Venezuelans at this critical time, and has reignited the debate on the connection between the arts and politics.
In Niger and Worldwide, a Legendary Surgeon and Humanitarian Is Mourned
Jean-Marie Servant, a specialist in reconstructive plastic surgery, a celebrated humanitarian, and a “giant among men,” has died. On social media, his friends are remembering his compassion and genius.
A Young Russian Governor's Fascist Chic
The acting governor of Kaliningrad, 30-year-old Anton Alikhanov, has a winter coat with some unusual arm patches. Some unusual fascist arm patches.
Hong Kongers Snap Protest Selfies With Government’s Palace Museum Project ‘Exhibition’
After a cultural project proceeds without public consultation and the government spends even more money on a television series to promote it, Hong Kongers stage acts of protest through selfies.
