Stephen Gibbs, a writer for The Economist specializing in Venezuela, and Anne Rowe, the publication's obituaries editor, dive into the recent Venezuelan referendum for annexing territory from Guyana, revealing it as more of a political stunt by Maduro than a true democratic result. The discussion also highlights the wage disparities facing overweight individuals, comparing it to the gender pay gap, and touches on the challenges low-income nations face regarding climate change funding, emphasizing the importance of global advocacy in achieving justice.
Venezuelan referendum results on annexation of Guyana raise questions about Maduro's leadership and the possibility of regional conflict.
Salimah Hook's advocacy at COP26 resulted in the establishment of a fund for climate change mitigation, highlighting the importance of compensating least developed countries for historical pollution.
Deep dives
Venezuela's Referendum on Guyana Annexation
Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro claims victory in a national referendum asking voters if they support the annexation of a portion of neighboring Guyana. However, turnout appears to be lower than claimed, and the legitimacy and implications of the result are uncertain. The border dispute between Venezuela and Guyana dates back to the early 19th century, fueled by territorial tensions and the recent discovery of oil by ExxonMobil in Guyana's waters. The outcome of the referendum raises questions about Maduro's leadership, upcoming elections, and the possibility of regional conflict.
Salimah Hook and Climate Change Advocacy
Salimah Hook, a Bangladeshi advisor and activist, dedicated his life to advocating for compensation for climate change impact on least developed countries. He argued that high-income countries bear responsibility for historical pollution causing climate change. At COP26 in Glasgow, his efforts led to the establishment of a fund for climate change mitigation. His work highlighted the resilience of Bangladesh in adapting to climate change and the importance of listening to those directly affected by it.
The Overweight Pay Gap
Studies have shown that obese workers, both men and women, tend to earn less than their non-obese counterparts. While this pay gap is more prominent for women, recent research shows that it also affects obese men with university degrees. Obese men with a bachelor's degree earn 5% less, and those with a graduate degree earn 14% less on average. The penalty is even higher for obese women, with a gap of 12% for those with a bachelor's degree and 19% for those with a graduate degree. Despite some efforts to address appearance-based discrimination, eliminating this pay gap remains a challenge.
By the numbers, the outcome seems clear: Venezuelans voted to annex much of newly minted petrostate Guyana. But our correspondent says the referendum was mere electioneering by President Nicolás Maduro, with unimpressive results. Our obituaries editor remembers Saleemul Huq, who campaigned relentlessly on behalf of the most vulnerable countries (9:52). And just how much lighter the paycheques are for heavier workers (17:03).
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