Stories from 14 April 2017
Some South Africans Argue It's Not Just Their Country's Credit Rating That's Junk Status
They blasted the country's president, historical and present-day inequality, and the rating agencies themselves after S&P Global Ratings and Fitch downgraded South Africa.
Amidst Political Scandal and a Hate Crime Probe, Japan’s Old Rescript on Education Is Back
When a Japanese private school was caught making racist and nationalistic remarks, the ensuing scandal started a national conversation about the relevance of a pre-war imperial edict on education.
War Between Spain and the UK Over Gibraltar? Social Media Says No Way, José!
"Why would we want Gibraltar, if we can't already exit a roundabout driving on the right imagine us on the opposite side!!!"
Censorship Undressed: Iranian State TV Cuts Broadcast Mid-Sentence
In an unusual broadcasting flub this week, Iran's official state media network cut off the live video feed of a reporter in mid-sentence, censoring election coverage.
Can Russia Protect Its Journalists From the ‘Homegrown ISIS’ in Chechnya?
Alexey Venediktov, one of Russia's most prominent journalists, says the Russian government appears to have allowed a “homegrown ISIS” to emerge under its nose in Chechnya.
Protests in Italy Save Hundreds of Ancient Trees on the Chopping Block for Gas Pipeline Construction
The olive trees are not only essential to many people's livelihoods, but also beloved by local residents.
Meet the Activist Trying to Bring Ukraine's Villages Online
“I don’t really like Europe. In Europe, 99 percent of things are finished; here, there is work to be done."
Some of Ghana's Media Houses Are Social Media Stars, While Others Take a Pass
The 1st Quarter Social Media Index report for 2017, released by the non-profit organisation Penplusbytes, surveys the use of social media by newspapers, TV stations and radio stations.
