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VIETNAM: 15 Days' except entry at land borders?
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What Is the Best Way to Fly?
???????????????? Fly an airline that has screens that tilt so you can see it when they put the seat back down. No problem on THAI. Back when I was flying Saudia ( the worst major airline on the planet in the 90s ) so few would fly on it that I often got the 4 seats in the center to lie on. I never found 2 seats enough to sleep properly. Saudia in the 90s didn't have individual screens ( Emirates did then ), and the movies were so censored not worth watching, so sleeping was all that was left. -
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BBC Staff Divided Over Call to Wear Palestinian Flag Colors and Keffiyeh
A workplace initiative urging BBC staff to wear the colors of the Palestinian flag and keffiyehs in solidarity with Palestine has sparked division and raised concerns, particularly among Jewish employees. Organized by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) as part of a broader "workplace day of action" for Palestine, the event aims to advocate for a ceasefire, the cessation of violence in Gaza, and the release of hostages. Scheduled for Thursday, the TUC has encouraged participants to visibly demonstrate their support by wearing red, green, black, or the traditional Palestinian keffiyeh. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ), which represents many BBC staff, endorsed the event, sharing the call to action with its members. The NUJ also condemned Israeli military actions, stating that since October 7, 2023, at least 135 Palestinian journalists have been killed. "The NUJ is urging branches and chapels to show support on the day and amplify the union’s calls," it said. However, the initiative has drawn backlash from Jewish staff at the BBC, who worry that visible displays of solidarity with Palestine could jeopardize the broadcaster's impartiality and alienate colleagues. One BBC journalist expressed frustration, describing the action as "hypocritical and antisemitic" and criticizing it for encouraging behavior that might contravene the organization’s impartiality standards. “BBC journalists, who pride themselves on impartiality and who fought to keep their NUJ free of politics, are being encouraged to break the BBC’s editorial guidelines by supporting a political cause,” the journalist said. Charlotte Henry, a freelance journalist and creator of *The Addition*, a media and tech newsletter, announced she had left the NUJ over its stance. “It has become a hostile environment for Jews, and I can no longer be a part of that,” she stated. The controversy underscores the tension between advocacy and impartiality within the BBC, where employees are expected to adhere strictly to neutrality guidelines. The Trades Union Congress, which represents 5.5 million members across various sectors, has been criticized by some Jewish organizations for its perceived insensitivity toward Jewish workers. The Board of Deputies of British Jews issued a statement condemning the TUC’s approach. "It is time for these unions to decide, are they there to support workers or to play student politics on a conflict on whose facts they appear to be plainly ignorant," it read. The Board also warned that introducing such issues into workplaces risks exacerbating tensions for Jewish employees. “Whatever the stated intent, attempts to bring this issue into the workplace in such a fashion will undoubtedly add to the belligerent atmosphere which many Jewish staff have been facing.” This debate highlights the challenges of navigating political activism in professional environments, particularly in institutions like the BBC, where impartiality is a core principle. As the day of action approaches, the division among staff serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in balancing advocacy, solidarity, and neutrality. Based on a report by The Times 2024-11-28 -
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Kamala Harris' Post-Election Video Goes Viral
A recent video of Vice President Kamala Harris addressing supporters following her 2024 presidential election defeat has gained significant attention online, sparking a range of reactions. The clip, posted by the Democratic Party's account on X (formerly Twitter), showcases Harris thanking donors and delivering a motivational message. However, it has also drawn criticism and skepticism over its presentation and content. The 28-second video, released on Tuesday, features Harris urging her audience to stay resilient despite the election outcome. “I just have to remind you: Don’t you ever let anybody take your power from you. You have the same power that you did before November 5, and you have the same purpose that you did. And you have the same ability to engage and inspire, so don’t ever let anybody or any circumstance take your power from you,” Harris said during the call. Even political scientist Ian Bremmer, president of the Eurasia Group, added to the discourse, offering a single word in response to the Democrats’ post: “um.” As the clip continues to circulate, it has sparked discussions about political messaging, presentation, and public perception. Newsweek reportedly reached out to Harris' campaign for comment but had not received a response at the time of reporting. This video, while intended as a moment of gratitude and inspiration, highlights the heightened scrutiny political figures face in the age of social media, where every gesture is dissected and amplified for millions to judge. Based on a report by Newsweek 2024-11-28 -
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Australia Urged to Rethink ICC Membership Amid Controversial Arrest Warrants
A leading Australian legal expert has called for the nation to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), claiming the institution is failing to uphold the principles of justice it was designed to protect. This call comes in the wake of the ICC’s contentious decision to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of crimes against humanity and war crimes during the Gaza conflict ignited by Hamas’ October 7 attacks. Professor Greg Rose from Wollongong University has raised significant concerns about the court’s actions, suggesting that its recent decisions undermine the rule of law and compromise its credibility on the global stage. Speaking to Sky News Australia’s Chris Kenny, Rose stated, “It’s my firm belief that the court is undermining the rule of law, the integrity of the United Nations, and the court’s credibility. In fact, it’s shot, and the best thing that Australia could do would be to pull out.” Rose’s critique focuses heavily on jurisdictional overreach, pointing out that Israel is not a signatory to the Rome Statute, the treaty establishing the ICC. This, he argues, means the court lacks the authority to prosecute Israeli leaders. “The fact that the ICC brought a case against Israel despite it not being bound by the court shows it has exceeded its own jurisdiction,” Rose said. Additionally, Rose criticized the ICC for failing to adhere to principles of due process and procedural fairness enshrined in its statute. He highlighted the court’s disregard for findings by an independent delegation of military experts, which deemed Israel’s domestic investigations adequate. “The court is meant to defer to the domestic processes of the country alleged to have committed the crimes,” he explained. “And then we also have breaches of procedural fairness with the inversion of the burden of proof.” Rose was particularly scathing about the ICC’s evidentiary approach. “The way the court has formulated its issue of warrants requires Israel to prove innocence. It requires Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant to demonstrate that they had no criminal intention… rather than the court finding on the evidence that they had a criminal intention,” he said, adding, “In fact, the court’s substantive judgment is two pages. And it’s really a sad joke.” The involvement of one of the three judges, who had previously worked on prosecuting the case, further fueled accusations of bias. Rose noted, “Normally, if you have a judge working on a case [as a prosecutor] and then going to judge it… that would be needed to give a reasonable apprehension of bias.” Rose’s remarks align with recent statements from Australian political figures. Shadow Attorney General Michaelia Cash hinted at the possibility of a future Coalition government reassessing Australia’s relationship with the ICC. Speaking on Sky News Australia’s Sunday Agenda, she stated, “Given the actions of the ICC, we certainly do have grounds now to reconsider our membership of the organisation.” This renewed scrutiny of the ICC raises questions about its role and relevance in international law, with Australia potentially at a crossroads regarding its continued participation in the court. Based on a report by Sky News 2024-11-28 -
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Transgender Police Officer Elected Women’s Representative Amid Assault Allegations
A transgender police officer in Berlin, Judy S., has been elected as the second deputy women’s representative for her police force despite facing allegations of drugging and assaulting two male colleagues with a penis pump. The election results were announced after Judy S. had already been suspended due to the allegations, creating widespread controversy within the force. The allegations, first reported by German outlet *Bild*, claim that Judy S., 27, took two male colleagues to her apartment after a night out, where they reportedly became “very intoxicated” and “unable to act.” The men allege they were subjected to sexual assault involving a penis pump and other acts that resulted in serious injuries, including to their genitals. Police raided Judy S.’s Berlin apartment on November 11, recovering cocaine and launching an investigation. According to reports, Judy S. had met the two men earlier in the month at the KitKatClub, a Berlin venue known for its explicit and unconventional atmosphere. The venue, established in 1994, has a reputation for its fetish-themed parties and lack of restrictions on public sexual activity. Despite the severity of the allegations, Judy S. garnered 638 votes, earning her the position of second deputy women’s representative. This role allows her to act in a senior capacity within the police force’s women’s representation hierarchy should the first deputy be unavailable. Judy S. has yet to accept the position but has at least a week to decide. The election results have sparked outrage among Judy S.’s colleagues, particularly female officers who feel betrayed by the lack of transparency surrounding her gender transition during the campaign. One female officer told *Bild*, “It would have been fair if she had spoken openly about it. How am I, as a woman, supposed to talk to a woman who was born a man about my menstrual problems or my problems during the menopause? She can’t understand that at all.” The officer added that while Judy S. was not obligated to disclose her gender identity, more openness would have been appreciated. The controversy has raised questions about the integrity of the election process and the appropriateness of appointing someone under active investigation to a leadership role. “This is something that many colleagues find offensive, mainly because of the investigations against her,” one officer remarked. The alleged victims claim they did not voluntarily consume drugs but suddenly felt incapacitated after arriving at Judy S.’s apartment. The incident, which they reported to police, led to the suspension of Judy S. and a search of her home. Police confirmed finding evidence of drug use but have released few details, citing privacy laws. The election campaign, which extended until November 20—more than a week after the allegations surfaced—likely kept Judy S.’s face and name prominent within the department. Some speculate that the visibility contributed to her electoral success despite the ongoing criminal investigation. Berlin police have refrained from commenting further on the case due to data protection laws, leaving many unanswered questions about the incident and its implications for Judy S.’s role within the force. Meanwhile, the situation continues to stir heated debates about transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in professional environments. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-11-28 -
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HBO’s Bold Defense of J.K. Rowling Signals the Waning of Woke Culture
Recent events have showcased the contrasting approaches corporations are taking in response to public backlash, and HBO’s firm stance in defense of J.K. Rowling stands as a striking example of resilience against the pressures of online outrage. In a world where companies often buckle under the weight of social media condemnation, HBO’s unwavering support of Rowling offers a refreshing counterpoint to what some have dubbed the "woke mind virus." The controversy began with the announcement of a new Harry Potter television series, in which Rowling would serve as an executive producer. Predictably, this decision sparked a fierce backlash from certain segments of the online community. However, HBO swiftly released a statement through *Variety*, affirming its commitment to the project and defending Rowling’s involvement. "We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter – the heart-warming books that speak to the power of friendship, resolve, and acceptance," the statement read. "J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement." This deliberate and unapologetic response contrasts sharply with the reactive PR strategies often seen in similar situations. While some corporations bend to the demands of a vocal minority, HBO’s approach seems to recognize a broader cultural shift. It reflects a growing resistance to the dominant narratives of the past decade, where corporate strategies often catered exclusively to progressive ideals. This change is evident beyond HBO. Instances such as World Athletics’ ban on transgender women in female ranking events and the removal of gender-neutral toilets in public spaces on both sides of the Atlantic suggest a larger pushback against certain elements of “woke” ideology. These shifts highlight what Tesla CEO Elon Musk has called a rejection of the "woke mind virus." By standing firm, HBO has drawn a clear line. Rather than pandering to the loudest voices online, it has acknowledged a silent majority that values freedom of speech and thoughtful dialogue over knee-jerk reactions. It’s a stance that might feel risky in an age of cancel culture, but it’s increasingly proving to be a winning formula. In contrast, brands like Jaguar appear to be doubling down on messaging that some view as tone-deaf and outdated. Its recent rebranding campaign, devoid of the luxury imagery traditionally associated with the marque, instead featured androgynous models and vague slogans about individuality. The ad, met with skepticism and ridicule, suggests a disconnect between the company’s ethos and its audience. HBO’s defense of Rowling serves as a reminder that companies can still navigate controversial waters without compromising their core values or alienating their broader audience. Millions will undoubtedly tune in to the new Harry Potter series, reconnecting with the magic Rowling created. Meanwhile, HBO’s example may embolden other companies to resist the pressure of online outrage and instead prioritize meaningful engagement with their audiences. The pendulum is swinging, and as HBO has demonstrated, courage in the face of controversy can pay dividends. While some brands may falter in their quest to stay “relevant,” others, like HBO, are proving that conviction and confidence can not only withstand but also thrive amidst the noise. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2024-11-28 -
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Giorgia Meloni Sparks Controversy with Remarks on Immigration and Sexual Violence in Italy
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has ignited debate after claiming that illegal immigrants are disproportionately involved in sexual violence in Italy. Speaking during an interview with *Donna Moderna* on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Meloni addressed the sensitive topic of gender-based violence, linking it to issues of immigration and public safety. Meloni asserted that tackling mass illegal immigration could enhance efforts to make public spaces safer for women. She stated, "Now I will be called a racist, but there is a greater incidence, unfortunately, in cases of sexual violence, by immigrants," specifying that this was particularly true of those who entered the country illegally. She explained her reasoning further, saying that when individuals "have nothing, a 'degeneration' occurs that can lead anywhere." Acknowledging the complexities of gender-based violence, Meloni emphasized the need for a strong legal and policing framework. "We need to guarantee the presence of the police, guarantee that there are crimes, [and] guarantee that when someone commits a crime they pay for that crime," she remarked. The Prime Minister’s comments come amid heightened awareness around gender-based violence in Italy. Last week, a foundation was inaugurated in honor of Giulia Cecchetin, a 22-year-old woman who was tragically kidnapped and murdered by her ex-boyfriend. The case has intensified public discussions on how best to address violence against women. Meloni's remarks, however, have drawn sharp criticism. Italian Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara recently faced backlash for making a similar claim, suggesting that illegal immigration was linked to rising incidents of sexual violence. Valditara’s statements provoked outrage, with opposition figures accusing him of perpetuating falsehoods. More Europe leader Riccardo Magi refuted the claims, citing official data from the Ministry of the Interior that attributes over 80% of femicides in Italy to Italian citizens. Magi lambasted Valditara's remarks, describing them as "shameless racist exploitation" and pointing out that such claims are not supported by available statistics. The tension reflects a broader divide in Italy over the intersection of immigration, public safety, and violence against women. Meloni's candid acknowledgment that her remarks might draw accusations of racism underscores the controversy surrounding the topic. Her government’s approach to immigration and public safety continues to be a polarizing issue, with critics accusing it of scapegoating marginalized groups while supporters praise its focus on law and order. As debates rage on, the tragic stories of women like Giulia Cecchetin remain a stark reminder of the urgency needed to address violence against women in all its forms, regardless of the political disputes it may provoke. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-11-28 -
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Teenage Girl Seriously Injured in Antisemitic Attack in London’s Stamford Hill
A brutal antisemitic attack in London’s Stamford Hill neighborhood left a young Jewish teenager severely injured on Monday evening, sparking outrage and concern in the community. Stamford Hill, home to a significant Orthodox Jewish population, has seen its residents shaken by the incident. Video shows the street, right up to the school’s gate, covered in shattered glass following an antisemitic attack on Orthodox Jewish schoolchildren. The organization further emphasized their role in supporting the affected families, adding, “Shomrim are supporting the victims and their families whilst MPS Hackney investigate this abhorrent hate crime.” Law enforcement authorities are treating the incident as a potential antisemitic hate crime. However, Metropolitan Police officers who responded to the scene were unable to locate the suspect. They have since confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and are working to bring the perpetrator to justice. This incident has not only caused physical harm but also sent ripples of fear through Stamford Hill’s Jewish community, which has long prided itself on resilience and unity. The attack has underscored the urgent need for vigilance and strengthened measures to combat antisemitism in all forms. Based on a report by The Standard 2024-11-28
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