David Cameron has begun a 'battle for Britain' in the EU – but how can he possibly win?

Dec 18, 2015 22:38 pm UTC| Politics Law

David Cameron has called his four key demands for reforming the EUs relationship with the UK a battle for Britain. And at last he has been able to fight it in person albeit over a dinner of chicken terrine and venison,...

New Polish government tightens grip on power

Dec 18, 2015 12:44 pm UTC| Commentary Politics

New polish government, which came to power after winning 235 seats (closest opposition ruling PO party with 138 seats) in October election has raided NATO-affiliated facility in a Midnight raid and replaced the...

Democracy is due for an overhaul – could lawmaking-by-jury be the answer?

Dec 18, 2015 01:48 am UTC| Insights & Views Politics

Many will agree that, in practice, democracy leaves a lot to be desired. The system often falls short of its ideals: whether its the US congress causing a total government shutdown; Australian prime ministers being ousted...

Spain heads to the polls this weekend for general elections

Dec 17, 2015 23:14 pm UTC| Commentary Politics

This is likely to mark the end of the two-party system that has prevailed for nearly four decades. The outcome of the vote nevertheless remains highly uncertain. At the very least, the status quo is unlikely to persist....

If you want to crack down on tax avoidance, go after the banks

Dec 17, 2015 05:05 am UTC| Insights & Views Politics

Tax is back in the news with the release of information of the taxes paid (or rather not paid) by some of the biggest companies operating in Australia. After much hand wringing (and a break for Christmas) politicians...

Oil in Global Economy Series

US on the verge of lifting crude export ban

Dec 16, 2015 08:06 am UTC| Commentary Politics

United states is the on the verge of lifting a four decade old crude oil export ban this year as lawmakers in congress reached a deal last night in a closed door meeting. Democrats have agreed to support the lift, tabled...

Brazil: From bad to worse

Dec 14, 2015 23:48 pm UTC| Commentary Politics

The news flow in Brazil continues to worsen. November inflation surprised to the upside, mainly because of food prices. On the political front, the impeachment process has slowed down, with the Supreme Court deciding to...