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Showing posts from October, 2024

The Double Standard of “Self-Defense”: Whose Rights Are We Acknowledging?

The phrase “Israel has the right to defend itself” is one we frequently encounter in political discourse, especially in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This assertion is often voiced by governments, international organizations, and media outlets following instances of violence or military actions. The sentiment implies a natural and unquestionable right for a nation to protect its citizens and sovereignty, which, on the surface, is universally acceptable. However, there’s a glaring omission in these conversations: we rarely hear similar proclamations about the right of Palestinians, Lebanese, Syrians, or Yemenis to defend themselves. This raises critical questions about whose rights are being recognized and why others are being disregarded. Are these people not worthy of the same acknowledgment? The idea of “self-defense” in international relations is enshrined in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which allows countries to defend themselves if attacked. In th

The Double Standard of “Self-Defense”: Whose Rights Are We Acknowledging?

The phrase “Israel has the right to defend itself” is one we frequently encounter in political discourse, especially in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This assertion is often voiced by governments, international organizations, and media outlets following instances of violence or military actions. The sentiment implies a natural and unquestionable right for a nation to protect its citizens and sovereignty, which, on the surface, is universally acceptable. However, there’s a glaring omission in these conversations: we rarely hear similar proclamations about the right of Palestinians, Lebanese, Syrians, or Yemenis to defend themselves. This raises critical questions about whose rights are being recognized and why others are being disregarded. Are these people not worthy of the same acknowledgment? The idea of “self-defense” in international relations is enshrined in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which allows countries to defend themselves if attacked. In th

Apples, Clogs, and Pottery: The Parees Festival Celebrates Asturian Identity

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The Parees Festival , a renowned urban art event in Oviedo , Spain , has once again celebrated Asturian culture and heritage in its seventh edition. This year, three new murals have been added to the city’s streets, bringing the total number of works to 40. These murals, created by local, national, and international artists, highlight symbols deeply rooted in Asturias’ cultural identity—Faro pottery, the traditional clog known as the madreña, and the apple, a staple of the region’s agriculture. Organized by the Oviedo Municipal Foundation of Culture, the Parees Festival is more than just an exhibition of urban art. It stands as a tribute to Asturias’ rich history, encouraging an artistic dialogue between the community and the creators. This edition featured the artistic talents of María Peña (Mapecoo) and Marat ‘Morik’ Danilyan , whose works have brought traditional Asturian symbols to life. Eduard Crespo, the director of the festival, highlighted the significance of these murals, s