Julian Assange, an Australian programmer and journalist, founded WikiLeaks to expose government corruption, human rights violations, and state secrets. After five years in UK prison awaiting extradition to the US for espionage charges, he was released as part of a plea deal. Assange's work with WikiLeaks has sparked debates on press freedom, privacy rights, and the ethics of information leaks. His legal troubles include hacking charges in the 1990s and sexual assault allegations in Sweden, leading him to seek asylum in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. The US charges against him involve collaboration with Chelsea Manning to access classified information.

Nayib Bukele, self-proclaimed 'coolest dictator in the world,' secures another five-year term in El Salvador despite constitutional restrictions. His administration, marked by propaganda and mass popularity, has concentrated power and undermined democratic institutions. Bukele's aggressive crackdown on gangs like Mara Salvatrucha and Barrio 18 has significantly reduced violence, but at the cost of alleged human rights abuses and attacks on media and NGOs. His governance raises concerns about democracy being used merely as a tool for achieving results, potentially eroding its foundational principles.

Ecofascism combines environmentalism with far-right, nationalist ideologies, emphasizing the preservation of nature and the belief that overpopulation, particularly by non-white people, threatens the planet. Originating from ideas like Malthusianism and the conservationist movement, it gained traction with Nazi Germany's lebensraum concept. Post-World War II, ecofascism re-emerged in far-right groups, linking environmental concerns with ethnonationalism. Notable figures include Madison Grant and Ted Kaczynski, though the latter rejected the label. Modern ecofascism is seen in parties like Alternativa para Alemania and Marine Le Pen's Agrupación Nacional, and has been cited by perpetrators of racially motivated attacks.

The article reviews significant topics from 2023, including the historical and social implications of Boxing Day football in the UK, the issue of youth loneliness exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and a year-end podcast discussing global events and traditions. It also highlights other notable topics such as popular Christmas songs on Spotify, the concept of ecofascism, India's rice exports, and a visual recap of important themes from the year.

The article discusses the geopolitical aspects of Christmas, the ongoing Israeli siege on Gaza, and rising tensions in the Red Sea. It highlights how modern Christmas songs were influenced by World War II, the political discussions that often arise during family gatherings, and provides data to counter common misconceptions. The article also delves into the division within the Palestinian movement, the strategic importance of the Red Sea, and the impact of Houthi attacks on maritime trade. Additionally, it promotes a podcast episode on the geopolitical implications of Christmas and offers various recommendations for books and other topics.

Richard Nixon and Henry Kissinger formed a complex yet impactful partnership that significantly influenced US foreign policy. Despite personal differences and mutual distrust, they collaborated to end the Vietnam War and engage with both the Soviet Union and China. Their pragmatic approach to international relations marked a pivotal shift in American diplomacy during the Cold War era.

The article discusses the ongoing technological competition between China and the United States, focusing on the semiconductor industry. It highlights Huawei's surprising advancements in chip technology despite U.S. sanctions, symbolized by the release of the Mate 60 Pro smartphone. The article details the challenges and achievements of Huawei and its subsidiary HiSilicon, emphasizing the significance of the Kirin 9000S chip. It also touches on the broader implications of this technological race for both countries.

Martín Caparrós, an award-winning Argentine journalist and writer, discusses the end of what he calls the 'Western Age' and the rise of China and India as new global powers that will challenge Western hegemony. He reflects on the significant changes in the world, such as urbanization, increased life expectancy, and the potential political and economic shifts due to China's growing influence. Caparrós also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the persistent divide between rich and poor countries, and the future of work, technology, and the role of states in a globalized world dominated by large corporations. His latest book, 'El mundo entonces,' written from the perspective of a 22nd-century historian, explores these themes in depth.

The study evaluates the use of native plants as bio-monitors for metal(loid) pollution in dry riverbeds affected by mining activities in the Cartagena-La Unión mining district in Spain. Three plant species—Piptatherum miliaceum, Foeniculum vulgare, and Dittrichia viscosa—were analyzed for their capacity to accumulate metals from contaminated soils. Piptatherum miliaceum showed potential as a bio-monitor for cadmium due to its high bioaccumulation factor and significant correlation between soil and root concentrations. The research highlights the importance of specific plant species in monitoring and managing metal pollution in mining-affected areas.

Dollarization involves replacing a country's currency with the US dollar, either officially or informally. Official dollarization is driven by governments and central banks to stabilize volatile local currencies, while informal dollarization occurs spontaneously as people seek stable assets. Official dollarization can boost economic growth and reduce capital flight but also results in loss of monetary sovereignty and inability to control inflation or interest rates. Panama's successful dollarization contrasts with Zimbabwe's failure, where reintroducing the local currency led to high inflation and a return to informal dollarization.

The Brezhnev Doctrine, or 'doctrine of limited sovereignty,' was the Soviet Union's foreign policy to prevent democratization or independence in socialist countries through military intervention. Initiated by Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, it aimed to protect socialism by using force, as seen during the Prague Spring in Czechoslovakia in 1968. The doctrine was articulated in three key moments: a Warsaw Pact meeting, an article in Pravda, and a speech by Brezhnev. It strengthened the ideological unity of the Eastern Bloc but increased tensions with the West due to its repressive nature.

The U.S. primary elections continue despite clear presidential candidates because each state votes independently, and candidates are chosen at national party conventions. The 2024 Republican convention will be in Milwaukee with Donald Trump as the favorite, and the Democratic convention in Chicago with Joe Biden likely to win. Primaries are state and local matters, with delegates chosen to vote at national conventions. The 2024 primaries are the least contested since 1972, with Biden and Trump as the main candidates. Alternative candidates have appeared but gained no delegates. Voters can also choose 'uncommitted' as a protest vote. The article explains the primary process and the role of state and local elections.

Ligia Urroz Argüello, a Nicaraguan-Mexican writer, reflects on her experiences with the Somoza dictatorship in Nicaragua and her subsequent exile. Her novel 'Somoza' explores her personal anecdotes with the dictator and the broader historical context. Urroz criticizes the current Ortega-Murillo government for human rights abuses and censorship, drawing parallels between past and present dictatorships in Nicaragua. Despite her forced exile, she remains hopeful about returning to her homeland. The article highlights the impact of political turmoil on personal lives and cultural expression.

María del Pilar López Uribe, a Colombian economist and historian, emphasizes the importance of women's participation in public debate and academia. Recognized by the International Association of Economics, she highlights the gender barriers in the field of economics and the need for more inclusive policies. Her work focuses on gender inequality, public policy, and economic development, particularly in Colombia. She advocates for better representation of women in academia and public forums, and has initiated campaigns to increase visibility for female economists. Her experiences in various countries have shaped her perspective on global inequalities and the importance of South-South dialogues.

A recent study highlights that 1% of Salvadorans are involved in gangs, leading to high violence rates. In response, President Nayib Bukele declared a state of exception, resulting in mass incarcerations and reduced violence but also causing humanitarian issues in prisons. The International Crisis Group's report suggests that while the policy has popular support, it may lead to long-term negative effects, including potential resurgence of violence. The report advocates for reintegration and restorative justice as long-term solutions. Bukele's policies have garnered international attention, but Western democracies remain cautious in their stance.

Spanish journalists Raquel Godos, Lorena Arroyo, and Cristina García Casado discuss the challenges of covering Latin America, focusing on issues like inequality, violence, migration, and feminism. They highlight the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social disparities and the role of the U.S. in regional migration crises. The journalists emphasize the importance of empathetic storytelling and the need for Spanish-speaking media to create a sense of community. They also discuss the influence of environmental factors on migration and the significance of the feminist movement in addressing regional abuses. Independent media outlets are praised for their role in providing in-depth local journalism.

The coup in Niger on July 26 has led to the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, creating a mutual assistance pact against external aggression. This new alliance opposes the Economic Community of West African States (Cedeao) and further divides the Sahel and West Africa. The region, rich in resources like gold, uranium, and oil, has seen seven coups in three years, all in former French colonies. The power vacuum is being exploited by Russia, through Wagner mercenaries, and jihadist groups like Al Qaeda.

The poem envisions a future where the world remains fundamentally the same, but with significant differences. Animals, plants, and stones will think like humans and have the right to vote. There will be no borders between countries, and people will seek similarities and unity. Humanity will become kinder, taller, and more connected with nature, reaching for light, strength, and unity.

Robert Oppenheimer, an influential American theoretical physicist known as the 'father of the atomic bomb,' played a pivotal role in the Manhattan Project, leading to the development of the first nuclear weapons during World War II. His later years were marked by his advocacy for nuclear disarmament and peaceful uses of nuclear technology, which led to political persecution during the McCarthy era. Despite controversies, he was posthumously recognized for his contributions to science and national security, with his legacy also depicted in popular culture.

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele has implemented stringent measures against gangs, leading to a significant reduction in the country's homicide rate. The new Terrorism Confinement Center has incarcerated thousands, showcasing Bukele's tough-on-crime approach. While these actions have garnered support and interest from other Latin American countries, they also raise concerns about potential authoritarianism, legislative and judicial control, and the sustainability of such measures in the long term.

Less than 8% of the world's population lives in full democracies, characterized by respect for civil liberties, effective separation of powers, functioning governments, independent media, and a solid political culture. The Economist Intelligence Unit's 2023 democracy index ranks Norway, New Zealand, and Iceland as the top three democracies, with other Nordic countries and nations from Europe, Asia, Oceania, and Africa also listed. The index evaluates 167 countries based on electoral process, government functioning, political participation, political culture, and civil liberties. Spain is included among the European countries with full democracies.

Over a third of the global population lives under authoritarian regimes, with 59 countries failing to respect freedoms and democratic principles. The Economist Intelligence Unit's 2023 Democracy Index ranks Afghanistan, Myanmar, and North Korea as the least democratic countries. The report highlights severe human rights violations, including restrictions on women's rights in Afghanistan, military repression in Myanmar, and the totalitarian regime in North Korea. Other countries like the Central African Republic, Syria, Turkmenistan, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Laos also feature in the list due to ongoing conflicts, repressive governments, and lack of political freedoms.

The Venezuelan government, particularly the Ministry for Communication and Information (Minci) and state media, has been spreading disinformation on various topics including negotiations with the opposition, the case of Álex Saab, official figures, pandemic management, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Reports by ProBox and Transparency Venezuela highlight the use of 'Twitter troops' to manipulate social media narratives and monetary incentives for promoting government hashtags. The government's digital and communication strategies are also aligned with Russia, sharing narratives and terminology to support Russian actions in Ukraine. Additionally, the Venezuelan government has been opaque in providing official statistics and information to the public, with significant gaps in the publication of official documents, health bulletins, and economic data.

William González Guevara, born in Managua in 2000, is a poet who grew up in Nicaragua and migrated to Spain at the age of 11. He studies language, literature, and journalism at Rey Juan Carlos University and has won numerous awards, including the prestigious Young Poetry Prize 'Antonio Carvajal' for his book 'Los nadies.' His work reflects his multicultural upbringing and experiences in Madrid's Carabanchel district, as well as the challenges faced by immigrants and marginalized communities. His upcoming book 'Me duele respirar' addresses the protests and exodus in Nicaragua, inspired by personal connections and research. González's poetry is celebrated for its authenticity and relevance to contemporary issues.

The Central America Counts Festival concluded in Madrid with the presentation of Ligia Urroz's novel 'Somoza'. The event, founded by Nicaraguan writer and former vice president Sergio Ramírez, celebrated its tenth edition in Guatemala City and Madrid. It featured authors from various Latin American countries and discussions on topics ranging from family histories to the intersection of reality and fiction. Nicaraguan writers in exile, including Gioconda Belli, participated, emphasizing their role in exerting pressure on Daniel Ortega's government. Young poets Carlos F. Grigsby and William González Guevara also shared their works, with themes of extinction, poverty, and the migrant experience in Spain.

The president of the Banco Central de Venezuela, Calixto Ortega, reported significant economic growth figures for Venezuela, claiming the highest growth in Latin America. However, various experts and organizations, including the Observatorio Venezolano de Finanzas and Ecoanalítica, provide a more nuanced view, highlighting issues such as the low base of comparison, ongoing economic challenges, and the impact of devaluation. Despite recent growth, the Venezuelan economy remains in crisis, with experts calling for comprehensive economic reforms.

The article addresses the speculation that the monkeypox outbreak is a result of a biological weapon, emphasizing that there is no evidence to support this claim. It highlights the role of the CDC, WHO, and FDA in tracking and managing the outbreak, and discusses the development and approval of the JYNNEOS vaccine by Bavarian Nordic. The article also touches on the misinformation spread by the anti-vaccine group Children's Health Defense and provides expert opinions on the natural origins and transmission of the virus. The current outbreak is noted to be concentrated among men who have sex with men, with public health strategies aimed at containing it.

Manuel Zelaya, former president of Honduras, claimed that the current administration has seen fewer homicides compared to the previous one. Data from the National Police and the National Violence Observatory support this claim, showing a reduction in homicides from January to June 2022 compared to the same period in 2021. Despite this decrease, Honduras still has one of the highest homicide rates in Latin America. The article also highlights various factors contributing to the reduction in homicides, including police reforms and coordinated efforts between state institutions and independent organizations.

Rosario Murillo, the Vice President of Nicaragua, has been attacking the protests that began four years ago against social security reforms and the government, labeling them as 'pure theater' and accusing critical bishops of being 'terrorist accomplices.' These statements contradict reports from international and human rights organizations documenting deaths, detentions, and censorship. The article highlights the government's violent response to the protests, the role of international bodies like the CIDH and Human Rights Watch in documenting abuses, and the ongoing repression and censorship in Nicaragua. The government's actions are compared to the historical repression by the Somoza dictatorship, and the article underscores the continued efforts of organizations like the Oacnudh to monitor the situation.

Russian Foreign Minister Serguéi Lavrov reiterated claims that the images of dead bodies in Bucha, Ukraine, were staged by Ukrainian and Western actors. However, multiple sources, including international journalists and organizations like The New York Times, Bellingcat, and Human Rights Watch, have provided evidence that contradicts this narrative, showing that the bodies were present during the Russian occupation. International leaders and organizations, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, are calling for independent investigations into potential war crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine.

The Salvadoran Legislative Assembly approved a state of exception following a surge in homicides, with 67 votes in favor. The decree, based on the Constitution, allows for the suspension of certain guarantees to restore order. However, its application has raised concerns about inconsistencies with international norms and potential human rights violations. President Nayib Bukele and the National Civil Police have reported numerous gang member arrests. Critics argue the decree is ambiguous and could lead to arbitrary application. The Supreme Court has prepared for increased workload, while NGOs and human rights organizations express worry over the measures' implications.

Venezuelan Vice Minister Alana Zuloaga defended the state's management of policies for people with disabilities at the UN, highlighting the country's legislation and institutions designed to protect their rights. Despite these laws, NGOs and international bodies have pointed out failures in access to rights, especially before the economic crisis. Venezuela's Constitution and international conventions such as the UN's Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CPDP) recognize the rights of people with disabilities, but implementation has been criticized. The National Assembly's Law for People with Disabilities and other initiatives aim to address these rights, but issues persist with unemployment and lack of access to services. Civil society organizations, including the Confederación de Sordos de Venezuela (Consorven), have presented alternative reports to the UN, highlighting the exclusion of people with disabilities in Venezuela and the need for updated legislation and comprehensive public policy.

Colombian President Iván Duque claimed in an interview with Voz de América that Venezuela cannot produce more than 700,000 barrels of oil per day, contrasting Colombia's recovery and strategic investments with Venezuela's destroyed capacity. Official figures from PDVSA are limited, and OPEC data shows discrepancies in Venezuelan oil production figures. Venezuela's economy contracted significantly under Nicolás Maduro, exacerbated by falling oil prices and U.S. sanctions. The country's oil production has declined from three million barrels per day in 2013 to half a million in 2020. Despite recent economic recovery signs, Venezuela's oil production remains below 700,000 barrels per day, according to OPEC's monitoring. The country's geopolitical situation, especially with the largest proven oil reserves and recent U.S. sanctions on Russian hydrocarbons, positions it in a complex relationship with major powers, with potential implications for energy security and diplomatic negotiations.

Xiomara Castro, the new president of Honduras, criticized the previous right-wing governments and outlined her administration's priorities during her inauguration speech. She highlighted the country's high poverty rates, significant national debt, and inefficiencies in the national electric company, ENEE. Castro's statements on poverty and debt were supported by data from various official and international sources. She also promised free electricity for impoverished families, funded by higher charges for heavy consumers.

Nicaragua's economy, under President Daniel Ortega's leadership, has shown signs of recovery but remains one of the weakest in the region, only surpassing Venezuela. Ortega's government, criticized for its repressive actions during the 2018 protests and subsequent economic downturn, faces international sanctions from the United States and the European Union. Despite these challenges, the government projects optimistic economic growth figures. Ortega's administration, marked by political isolation and human rights violations, continues to face domestic and international scrutiny.

Nicolás Maduro claims 2021 as the first year of economic growth for Venezuela since U.S. sanctions began, citing improvements in various sectors and reduced inflation. However, independent reports and analyses suggest these improvements are limited and contextual. The Central Bank of Venezuela reports a significant drop in inflation rates, while the Venezuelan Finance Observatory offers slightly different figures. Economic projections remain cautious, with the IMF and Ecoanalítica noting potential growth but emphasizing ongoing challenges. The oil sector, despite recent production increases, continues to struggle with meeting targets.

The legal advisor to the Presidency of El Salvador, Javier Argueta, recommended that sanctioned officials take legal action against journalists reporting on their sanctions, citing laws protecting honor. This has sparked criticism from various organizations and individuals who view it as a threat to press freedom. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recently sanctioned several Salvadoran officials for alleged corruption and human rights violations. The article discusses the balance between the right to honor and freedom of expression, referencing Salvadoran and international legal principles. The Salvadoran government, particularly under President Nayib Bukele, has been criticized for its increasing hostility towards the press.

The article critiques the Nicaraguan government's claims of being an 'example' of gender equity, as stated by Vice President Rosario Murillo. Despite high rankings in global gender gap indices, the article argues that these do not reflect the complex and difficult situation for women in Nicaragua, exacerbated by political repression and violence. It highlights the disparity between the government's policies and the actual conditions faced by women, including economic challenges, high rates of femicide, and the rollback of gender equality initiatives. The article also underscores the efforts of various organizations and activists in defending women's rights amidst increasing repression.

Cuban dissident Yunior García, leader of the failed 'Marcha Cívica por el Cambio,' explains his reasons for fleeing Cuba and calls for stronger international actions against the Cuban government, which he labels a dictatorship. García recounts the threats and harassment he faced, leading to his escape to Madrid. He emphasizes the need for the international community to take a firmer stance against the Cuban regime and dismisses romanticized views of Cuba. García aspires to return to a future Cuba that is inclusive and democratic, rejecting the repetition of past mistakes. He does not intend to seek asylum in Spain and hopes to return when conditions improve.

The governance report presented by Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández contains a mix of truths, omissions, and questionable claims. While highlighting achievements in security and anti-corruption, the report omits significant issues and is contradicted by international data. Analysts argue that despite some progress, the roots of violence and corruption remain unaddressed. The upcoming elections on November 28 could bring significant political changes, with left-wing candidate Xiomara Castro and right-wing candidate Nasry Asfura vying for the presidency. Hernández's governance is under scrutiny, and he faces potential legal challenges post-mandate.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro claimed on November 7 that 70% of the population was vaccinated against COVID-19, a statement that does not align with scientific consensus or independent data. Venezuela lacks an official technical authority reporting vaccination data, leading to reliance on international and independent organizations like the Pan American Health Organization (OPS), which reported only 32.3% of the population with a complete vaccination scheme as of November 5. The country's vaccination rate is among the lowest in Latin America and the Caribbean. The article also discusses the psychological impact of the pandemic on Venezuelans and the inconsistent information provided by the government.

The Venezuelan government under Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro has actively reinterpreted the country's history to support its political agenda, focusing on the figure of Simón Bolívar. The creation of the Centro Nacional de Historia (CNH) in 2007 has been a key part of this strategy, aiming to promote a 'new insurgent and emancipatory history.' Critics argue that this approach distorts historical facts for ideological purposes, sidelining independent academic research. The article highlights the tension between the government's historical narrative and that of traditional academic institutions, emphasizing the political use of history in Venezuela and drawing parallels with other historical revisionist practices globally.

The article discusses the evolving understanding of economic development through historical analysis, highlighting the contributions of various scholars in the field. It emphasizes the importance of historical context in explaining current economic disparities and the role of institutions, policies, and cultural legacies. The text also addresses the challenges of integrating historical insights with quantitative economic methods and the limitations of historical research in providing immediate policy recommendations.

The 'resource curse' or 'paradox of abundance' refers to the phenomenon where regions rich in minerals and fuels develop less than those without such resources, often due to rent-seeking and corruption. In Mozambique's Cabo Delgado, a significant natural gas discovery could make the country a major exporter, but institutional weaknesses and limited media freedom allow private interests to harm the uninformed public. Studies suggest that informing and involving the community can prevent corruption and reduce violence, as seen in Cabo Delgado, where extremists recruit youths. Effective communication campaigns and public participation in decision-making can contribute to social well-being and economic development.