01/17/2013

PRI’s The World: 01/17/2013 (Sweden, Finland, Saudi Arabia)

By The World ⋅ January 17, 2013 ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

Confusion over the fate of hostages held by militants in Algeria. Also, why the US is steering clear of intervention in Mali. Plus, a conversation with one of the first women appointed to serve on a key council in Saudi Arabia.

Military Operation Ends at Algerian Gas Facility with Uncertain Outcome

By Nina Porzucki ⋅ January 17, 2013 ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

Early Thursday, the Algerian government forces launched an operation to try and free the hostages — some of whom are Americans. The operation apparently began when Algerian forces fired on a militant convoy that was carrying some of the captives. BBC Arab Affairs Editor Sebastian Usher is following the crisis from London.

Why the US is Staying Out of Mali

By Michael Rass ⋅ January 17, 2013 ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

Malian soldiers (Photo:REUTERS/Joe Penney)

Washington is keeping the conflict in the West African nation of Mali at arm’s length. American officials say they are providing intelligence to France and are considering deploying American aircraft to land in Mali for airlift or logistical support. But there are no plans to send American troops.

What Malian Expats Think About US Involvement in the Region

By Alex Gallafent ⋅ January 17, 2013 ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

From left, Zeinab Maiga, Aminata Camara, and a colleague, all Malians in Harlem, New York. (Photo: Alex Gallafent)

Malians in the US are watching and talking about the events unfolding back home and there is no shortage of opinions, especially when it comes to US involvement.

Women Join Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council: Change Can’t be Forced, Needs ‘to Grow Roots’

By Ann Lopez ⋅ January 17, 2013 ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

Dr. Thuraya al-Arrayed, one of the first women to be appointed to Saudi Arabia's Shura Council. (Photo: Courtesy of Dr. al-Arrayed)

This month King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia kept his promise and appointed women to the Shura Council for the first time. The council is a non-voting, advisory body. But the inclusion of women is significant.

Making the Case for Immigration Reform from Texas

By Jason Margolis ⋅ January 17, 2013 ⋅ One comment ⋅

Carlos Duarte with "Mi Familia Vota" spent last year trying to get Latino immigrants engaged in the political process through voting. Now, he and other organizers are concentrating their focus on passing immigration reform. (Photo: Jason Margolis)

Immigrant rights advocates will be making their case to President Obama and Congress — they want a path to citizenship for the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants living and working in the US.

Struggling to Counter Maritime Immigrant Smuggling

By Jill Replogle ⋅ January 17, 2013 ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

Smugglers of drugs and illegal immigrants are increasingly using US pleasure craft for illicit activity. They often abandon the boats along the coast. (Photo: Katie Euphrat)

Maritime smuggling of illegal immigrants is rising along the coast of southern California and so are the dangers. Jill Replogle of the Fronteras desk spoke with a man who runs a boat rescue team for abandoned or stranded boats off of San Diego. Sometimes he rescues smugglers.

Square to Be Named in Honor of The Clash’s Joe Strummer

By Clark Boyd ⋅ January 17, 2013 ⋅ 3 comments ⋅

Joe Strummer in Granada. (Photo: Screen Grab from "I Need a Dodge!")

The city of Granada, Spain looks set to name a square located near the iconic Alhambra in honor of the late Joe Strummer, once the frontman of British punk rockers The Clash.