In this guest contribution, Ajibola Adigun of Nigeria outlines concerns about legislation threatening freedom of the media, an institution that has been described as the guardian of democratic rights. In a desperate attempt to avoid criticism, members of the Kenyan Parliament have resorted to attacking the press. Kenyan journalists are being forced to endure costly …
A more systemic approach is needed to entrench citizen engagement in democratic governance, writes Christine Shahbenderian, 23, a Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, who argues that it is high time for us to do democracy differently. “[The] key characteristic of democracy is the continuing responsiveness of the government to the preferences of its citizens, considered …
Children are among the victims of the health impacts of climate change, writes Fariya Abubakari, 26, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bawku, Ghana, who argues policy and action are needed to avert suffering. Mr. Koglo, a 40-year old man, hailed from Nangodi in the Upper East Region of Ghana, where the region’s high temperatures have had a negative …
Unethical business practices and ineffective regulation are a daunting combination for consumers, writes Jonathan Ugiagbe, 30, a Correspondent from Benin in Nigeria, who argues it is time for an effective consumers coalition. Consumers in Nigeria form a critical mass of the world consumer constituency. Yet this critical mass is today in danger and disrespected because …
Preconceived attitudes can limit the potential of individuals, writes Ishan Agarwal, 20, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Kolkata in India, who argues in favour of challenging bias to allow personal and societal growth. Often we are prevented from achieving success in a given field or endeavour, not due to lack of talent or skill, but rather due …
Lyn-Marie Blackman, 29, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Barbados, reflects on the challenge – and reward – of finding meaning among the demands and pressures of everyday life. The planet Earth has been estimated to house seven billion people. These seven billion are composed of individuals who are of different ethnicities, religious persuasions, sexual preferences, professional and …
A visit to the Republic of Korea gave Erandi Thanippularachchi, 23, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Sri Lanka, opportunity to learn about culture, history, and how a nation can develop its potential. The moment we stepped into the Republic of Korea, we were amazingly greeted as “Anna ye Seiyo” with friendly and beautiful smiles. Seoul is a …
Feminism is a controversial issue, writes Omang Agarwal, 19, a Correspondent from India, but he suggests that looking at the women in one’s own family can make a strong argument in favour of gender equality. Feminism in India has been controversial and under fire due to the influence of many traditions, religions, customs and orthodox laws. …
A popular music group in Botswana is reaching audiences and gaining fans, but as Moses Mokoanene, 25, a Correspondent from Lethakeng in Botswana writes, the group faces hurdles getting that elusive first album released. It is not easy for every upcoming artist to have a warm welcome in the music industry. For about five years, …
A beauty competition set the stage for one contestant to challenge preconceptions and empower others to be agents of positive change, writes Rashaun Watson, 23, a Correspondent from Portmore, Jamaica. On December 19, 2015, all eyes were fixed on the grand coronation show for the 65th Miss World Competition in Sanya, China. The competition attracted beautiful women …