Protesters in Pakistan call for Imran Khan’s release
Nov 26, 2024
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Aisha Siddiqua, a Senior fellow at King's College, discusses the explosive protests in Islamabad demanding the release of former PM Imran Khan, addressing the political turmoil and military influence in Pakistan. Guy Delaunay sheds light on Italy's controversial asylum deal with Albania and its implications for the Italian government. Zoe Grunwald analyzes Donald Trump's proposed tariffs and their potential economic impact. Meanwhile, Joshua Kuchera provides on-ground insights into the protests following Georgia's parliamentary elections.
Imran Khan's imprisonment has ignited large protests in Islamabad, reflecting widespread dissent against perceived political manipulation by the military and judiciary.
Georgia's political landscape remains tumultuous as opposition parties boycott parliament, questioning the legitimacy of recent elections marred by alleged fraud and systemic irregularities.
Italy's asylum deal with Albania faces significant criticism due to low processing rates, raising concerns about its efficiency and the financial burden on the government amid legal challenges.
Deep dives
Imran Khan's Final Push for Release
Imran Khan, former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has called for protests in Islamabad demanding his release from prison after being incarcerated for over a year. Despite significant military presence, which has effectively sealed off the capital with roadblocks and communication disruptions, thousands of supporters have galvanized, marching towards the city. The situation is tense, with reports of violence as authorities confront demonstrators, leading to injuries and arrests. Khan's call is seen as a desperate move amidst claims of a politically manipulated judiciary and military opposition to his return to power.
Georgia's Political Unrest
Georgia is experiencing political turmoil as opposition parties boycott the opening of parliament following alleged election fraud. The Georgian Dream party, which claims to have won decisively, faces protests from supporters who demand the elections be invalidated due to systemic irregularities. The president, aligned with the opposition, has legally challenged the outcomes, although the loyal court system is unlikely to favor the opposition's claims. The protests reflect a growing discontent with the ruling party and raise questions about its legitimacy and governance amid protests that continue to persist.
Controversy Over Italy's Asylum Outsourcing Deal
Italy's controversial outsourcing agreement for asylum procedures to Albania is facing backlash, as the operational centers have seen incredibly low numbers of processed claims. Intended to deter asylum seekers from heading to Italy, the initiative has resulted in only 24 asylum requests within the first month, demonstrating significant logistical failures. Critics from opposition parties highlight the project as a costly fiasco, with estimates of expenses reaching close to a billion euros instead of the originally stated 700 million. While the government insists on keeping the centers operational, legal challenges loom, clouding the future of this asylum approach.
Black Friday's Expansion and Consumer Concerns
The scope of Black Friday has transformed from a single-day shopping event into an extended sales phenomenon influencing consumer behavior throughout the holiday season. Retailers are now promoting deals well in advance of the traditional date to capitalize on consumer interest and alleviate spending hesitations due to rising interest rates. However, experts warn that many of these sales may not necessarily offer genuine discounts, as some retailers inflate prices prior to the event. This has sparked debates around ethical consumerism, overconsumption, and the environmental impact resulting from mass retail events.
Landmine Ban Conference in Cambodia
Representatives from 164 countries are convening in Cambodia for the fifth review conference of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, addressing ongoing threats from landmines and the need for their eradication. Cambodia, reflecting on its tumultuous history with landmines, showcases progress in clearing minefields while acknowledging the challenges that remain. Despite the treaty's inception aiming for full clearance by 2025, only one nation is on track to meet this deadline, highlighting the urgency of global cooperation. The conference also faces scrutiny amidst increasing evidence of landmine use in current conflicts, particularly concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Supporters of Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, take to the streets of Islamabad to demand his release. Elsewhere, Italy’s controversial deal with Albania over asylum seekers lands leader Georgia Meloni in hot water; in Tbilisi, the first session of the newly elected parliament sparks protests; and we’re in Cambodia to report on the conference of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. Plus: why US retailers have extended Black Friday.