02/26/2013
PRI’s The World: 02/26/2013 (Azerbaijan, Zimbabwe, Mali)
What Italy’s anti-austerity Five Star Movement is planing after its unexpected success at the polls. Also, the growing flood threat posed by lakes filled by melting glaciers around the globe. Plus, how one singer from Mali wound up with careers in both music and car sales.
Italy’s New Political Power Just Says ‘No’
Italy’s election results have produced a political gridlock that scares Europe and global investors. But also a winner: The anti-establishment “Five Star Movement” led by former comedian Beppe Grillo.
Journalist Says US and Italy Should Recognize Welfare State is Dead
Fiscal stability is on the minds of many Americans as the sequester deadline looms. There’s been much discussion about how unpleasant the cuts could be, and how they might slow down the economy. Europeans are brutally familiar with that kind of austerity.
Yes, A Mediterranean Diet is Good For You
News of a new study showing that a “Mediterranean diet” is good for your health isn’t really news for people in Spain.
Melting Glaciers Bring Growing Threat of Catastrophic Floods
Rapidly melting glaciers are creating more and bigger glacial lakes around the world, bringing a growing threat of catastrophic floods for communities below. Daniel Grossman reports from Peru.
South Africa to Investigate Mass Rapes in Neighboring Zimbabwe
The government of South Africa is invoking “universal jursidiction” to investigate allegations of a systematic, politically-based rape campaign in Zimbabwe.
Syrian Rebels Now Better Armed With Help of Saudi Arabia
A higher grade of weapons is reaching Syrian rebel fighters from foreign countries. The New York Times reports that Saudi Arabia is purchasing weapons in Croatia for anti-government fighters.
Baku’s Terminology Commission Ditching Russian-Origin First Names
Geo Quiz: Name a Eurasian country that is introducing some linguistic measures to diminish foreign cultural influence. The BBC’s Leyla Najafova has details on a recent ban imposed by the “terminology commission” on Russian or foreign sounding names for new born babies.
Banksy Mural Pulled from Auction
The sale of a mural by secretive British graffiti artist, Banksy, has been unexpectedly halted in Miami. The mural had been taken from a wall in north London, prompting an outcry from the local community.
Oumou Sangare, Malian Musician and Auto Executive
Malian singer Oumou Sangare performs in concerts all over the globe, but it’s only in Mali where consumers can buy her cars. Michael May profiles this African singer who’s parlayed her musical success into other business endeavors.
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