Iran has for nearly four decades posed a particularly hostile environment towards its LGBT-identifying citizens, with little or no prospect of positive change regarding the rights of such individuals. The punishments for sexual acts between individuals of the same sex are severe, ranging from lashing or flogging, and including the
By UPF Webzine
Articles/Corruption/Culture/Economy And Trade/Health/Science/Technology/Transparency/Uncategorized
Smart drugs – a smart move for society?
For many people, trying to keep energy and motivation levels high throughout the working day is hard. Many turn to substances such as coffee to help keeping them sharp. Although useful, these are not the only substances that are used in today’s hectic life. The need to perform better than
Referendum in Slovakia – Is Gay Marriage a Red Herring?
In February 2015, Slovakia held a referendum against gay marriage with a record low turnout. Is the Slovak population so indifferent about human rights? Or does it rather have to do with political tactics? The discussion on gay rights might simply be a red herring to obscure other social and
Where is Central Asia? A strategic grey-zone lost to the world
Central Asia has been the source of strategy and conflict for thousands of years. The region has been a backdrop for some of the most important trade routes in the world, most notably the Silk Road. It has been coveted by both regional and international powers, among them the Persian
By UPF Webzine
Africa/Articles/Conflict/Culture/Democracy/Economy And Trade/EU/Europe/Human Rights/International Relations/Migration/Security/Uncategorized
Trapped Asylum Seekers in Europe: The Dublin Regulation
There is a large number of asylum seekers and refugees who are attempting to find a better life in Europe. They are often middle-class, well-educated people fleeing conflict or persecution in their home countries and are looking for refuge because their own countries have become unliveable. After spending their savings
A flag after one’s heart
Every nation has a unique flag to call its own, but when is it ok to use it? It seems fine when supporters proudly wave their nation’s flag during international sporting events, but often many will disapprove of this prolific nationalistic behaviour outside of the stadium. Is nationalism the new
Popular Populism – The Success of Populist Parties Explained
Populism has existed since the dawn of politics and many historical consequences – ‘good’ and ‘bad’ – have been ascribed to it. Presently, Europe is experiencing a surge of popularity towards populist parties, often dubbed right-wing, which in turn leaves conventional parties struggling to remain in power. Ideology aside, the
By UPF Webzine
Articles/Culture/EU/Europe/Human Rights/International Relations/Media/Migration/Security/Uncategorized
The Mediterranean Migration Crisis: How Will the EU Respond?
In 2014, over 3,000 people have died in the Mediterranean Sea, according to the International Organisation for Migration. Violence in Syria, Eritrea and Libya has contributed to the rise in migrants attempting to reach Europe’s borders from Africa and the Middle East. Many people turn to illegal smugglers who often
New Zealand, is it time for re-branding?
New Zealand has been stuck in a perpetual identity crisis, but perhaps a solution is on the horizon. Taking inspiration from companies such as Apple and Starbucks maybe an image makeover is what this country needs to move forward out of their postcolonial slump. The proposed re-branding is to change
Behind the Sino-Indian handshake
International community is watching closely as the two most populous countries and fastest growing economies in the world expand their cooperation. For the first time in eight years, China and India attended a meeting last month to deliberate terms of the new economic agreement aimed to dampen the mistrust between