03/18/2013
PRI’s The World: 03/18/2013 (Cyprus, Brazil, Canada)
European markets reel as a proposed bailout tax on bank accounts in Cyprus sparks a run by customers to withdraw their money. Also, as the US congress works on immigration reform, we examine the state of security along the US-Mexico border. Plus, a couple of Norwegians fly over Rio de Janeiro using nothing but wingsuits.
Need for Cyprus Financial Bailout Sparks Protests, Concern in Europe
Cyprus, like its Mediterranean neighbor Greece, needs a financial bailout. But a plan by the European Union to partially pay for the bailout with a tax of up to 10 percent on customers’ bank deposits sparked protests and a run on ATMs in Cyprus. And that’s got the rest of Europe worried about contagion.
How Cypriots Could be Impacted by the Tax on Bank Deposits
Lawmakers in Cyprus are set to vote on a bailout plan that would tax all bank deposits by 6.25 percent. Stavros Zenios is a professor of finance at the University of Cyprus in Nicosia and is one of many people whose savings would be affected if the measure is adopted.
Would-Be Palestinian Presidents Reflect on Obama Visit to Israel
The discrepancy in President Obama’s schedule is one reason why many Palestinians fail to see much value in this visit. And the fact that they can’t choose their own president.
Is French Still Vulnerable in Quebec?
A new round of skirmishes in Quebec’s war over language has broken out. The province’s largest party wants to further protect French, but some say “Non!” if that comes at the expense of English.
Gang Rape in India of Swiss Tourist
The horrific gang rape and murder of a young woman in India last December sparked outrage and protests across the country. And now another case of sexual violence has caused a media storm. Last week a woman was gang raped while her companion was forced to watch.
Texas Border Residents Argue Against More Security
As Washington works on immigration reform, a number of Republican leaders argue that no plan can proceed without more security at the US-Mexico border. But as the World’s Jason Margolis found out along the border in southeast Texas, many feel there’s too much security already.
How to Measure the Effectiveness of Border Security
The US government has devoted a lot of resources to sealing the US-Mexican border. But just how effective has the build-up been, and what is the best way to measure it? Host Marco Werman speaks with Edward Alden, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, who has been researching these questions.
Daredevil Flies Into Rio de Janeiro Wearing a Wingsuit
Norwegian Jokke Sommer recently made a spectacular video of his flight over Rio de Janeiro. The daredevil flyer who wears a special aerodynamic wingsuit landed safely in the center of Rio after jumping off an ultralight plane, and flying in over the city skyline narrowly missing skyscrapers, and cathedrals.
Bloco do Sargento Pimenta: The Beatles Samba-Style
One of the hits of Rio de Janeiro’s carnaval this year was Bloco do Sargento Pimenta, a samba tribute band dedicated to the music of The Beatles. Anchor Marco Werman speaks with one of the band’s singers, Leandro Donne.
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