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Vivienne Walt

Paris, France
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About Vivienne
Vivienne Walt is a seasoned, award-winning foreign correspondent for TIME Magazine and other major US publications. She travels widely from her base in Paris, with broad expertise on war and terrorism in Europe and beyond. Walt has covered the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars, and the Egyptian, Tunisian and Libyan revolutions, and in Paris she was key to TIME's coverage of the Charlie Hebdo attacks and the 2015 ISIS attacks on Paris.
 She has landed major hard-to-get interviews, including a very rare sit-down with a foreign outlet with French President Francois Hollande, for a TIME Europe cover story, and three interviews with Saif Gaddafi before and during the Libyan revolution. She covered Iraq under Saddam Hussein and for many months after the US invasion collapsed that dictatorship.
 In Europe Vivienne has traveled widely across the continent, investigating the refugee crisis, Islamic militancy, the European economic crisis and the IMF negotiations, the Iran sanctions negotiations, and many other issues.
 She is also a seasoned hand in Africa, where she has reported in about 30 countries in every region, and under arduous conditions, from South Sudan to the Niger Delta and the DRC.
 Born and raised in Cape Town, Vivienne emigrated to New York after graduating from university, and now lives in Paris with her husband and child.
Languages
English French
Services
Audio package (Radio / Podcast) Interview (Video / Broadcast) Feature Stories
+5
Skills
Fact Checking
Portfolio

Big Oil’s Winning Streak Forces Activist Investors to Regroup

28 May 2024  |  www.nytimes.com
Tensions between oil majors and activist investors are escalating, with Exxon Mobil and Chevron facing significant pressure at their annual meetings. Activist groups, struggling to influence corporate behavior, are rethinking strategies after setbacks, including a failed climate measure at Shell's meeting. Exxon is embroiled in legal battles with activist groups Arjuna Capital and Follow This over climate resolutions. Activists are now focusing on winning over institutional investors like BlackRock and Vanguard. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia plans a major share sale of Saudi Aramco, and Guyana's president is open to Chevron drilling alongside Exxon in disputed reserves.

Attention Miami! These streets will be closed for a filming with Will Smith

28 Feb 2024  |  hechoencalifornia1010.com
Several roads in Miami and Fort Lauderdale will be closed due to a filming involving actor Will Smith. Specific closures include the easternmost lane of Brickell Avenue between 13th and 14th streets on February 28th, Southwest 2nd Avenue and 2nd Street on March 1st, and the bridge on Southwest 2nd Avenue between 3rd and 8th streets on March 2nd and 3rd. Will Smith was also seen visiting soccer star Lionel Messi during a match with Inter Miami.

A global race to regulate AI has put the booming industry on the defensive

01 Feb 2024  |  www.aol.com
Lawmakers in the European Union have agreed on the AI Act, the world's first comprehensive regulation for artificial intelligence, after intense negotiations. The act aims to balance innovation with safety, addressing issues like facial recognition and the size of companies subject to regulations. Similar efforts are underway in the U.S., Japan, the U.K., and South Korea, with varying focuses on privacy, misinformation, and data transparency. The regulations will significantly impact the tech industry, influencing product development and data usage. Major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI are lobbying heavily, while countries like China and Russia view AI as crucial for future political power. The global push for AI regulation highlights the challenges of governing a rapidly evolving technology. The article underscores the importance of international cooperation and the potential economic and security implications of AI regulation.

A global race to regulate AI has put the booming industry on the defensive

01 Feb 2024  |  fortune.com
The EU's AI Act marks the world's first comprehensive regulation for artificial intelligence, aiming to balance innovation with safety. The U.S., Japan, the U.K., South Korea, and other major economies are also developing AI regulations to address issues like misinformation, privacy, and cybersecurity. The regulations could significantly impact the tech industry's future, influencing product development and data usage. Key debates include the use of facial recognition and the extent of regulations for large AI companies. The article highlights the global race to regulate AI, with countries like China and Russia emphasizing AI's strategic importance. Industry leaders call for standardized rules to facilitate business operations, despite the challenges posed by differing national regulations.

The Key Issues for Business in a Likely Trump-Biden Rematch

27 Jan 2024  |  www.nytimes.com
Business leaders are preparing for the potential impacts of a likely Trump-Biden rematch in the upcoming presidential election. Key concerns include the national debt, corporate taxes, and regulatory changes. Executives from companies like Blackstone, Bread, and Sharecare are weighing in on how the election could affect their industries, while experts from organizations like the Committee for Economic Development and Piper Sandler provide insights. Despite the looming election, many business leaders are trying to avoid political discussions.

What’s Next in Artificial Intelligence?

27 Dec 2023  |  www.nytimes.com
Artificial intelligence is poised for significant advancements and regulatory scrutiny in 2024. Key figures in the AI industry, including Mustafa Suleyman and Vinod Khosla, highlight the transformative potential of AI across various sectors. Regulatory efforts are intensifying, with the EU drafting comprehensive AI regulations and the US considering similar measures. Companies like DeepMind, OpenAI, Nvidia, and Mistral AI are at the forefront of AI innovation, attracting substantial investments. The rapid growth in computational power and AI capabilities is expected to drive further breakthroughs, while concerns about job displacement and ethical implications persist.

Deepfakes are another front in the Israel-Hamas war that risk unleashing even more violence and confusion in the future: ‘This is moving incredibly fast’

04 Dec 2023  |  fortune.com
The article explores the growing threat of deepfakes in the context of the Israel-Hamas war, highlighting the role of AI in both creating and detecting fake content. Clarity, an AI startup led by Matias, has been pivotal in identifying deepfakes during the conflict, working closely with Israeli intelligence and international media. The piece underscores the rapid advancement of generative AI technologies and the challenges they pose for tech companies and governments. It also touches on the emotional toll on Clarity's team and the broader implications for global security and disinformation.

The Financial Paradox Blocking Efforts to Fight Climate Change

02 Dec 2023  |  www.nytimes.com
At the COP28 climate change conference in Dubai, a critical debate centers on the availability of capital for developing countries to transition to renewable energy and manage extreme weather. The discussions focus on the amount of investment, its sources, and the interest rates for loans. The paradox is that while financing for environmentally harmful projects is readily available, funding for necessary sustainable projects is scarce. This economic dilemma is crucial as the world faces the threat of catastrophic warming, with average global temperatures already 1.2 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels.

Deepfakes are another front in the Israel-Hamas war that risk unleashing even more violence and confusion in the future: ‘This is moving incredibly fast’

01 Dec 2023  |  www.aol.com
The article explores the growing threat of deepfakes in the context of the Israel-Hamas war, highlighting the role of AI in creating and detecting disinformation. Michael Matias, CEO of Clarity, an AI startup, discusses the challenges and importance of identifying fake content amidst the conflict. The piece also covers the broader implications of generative AI, including its potential misuse in warfare and the efforts by governments and tech companies to combat this issue. Key figures and organizations involved in the fight against deepfakes are mentioned, emphasizing the urgent need for effective solutions.

Terrorism attack fuels TotalEnergies criminal complaint

10 Oct 2023  |  fortune.com
In March 2021, a deadly terrorist attack by ISIS-linked Al-Shabaab in Mozambique resulted in over 1,000 deaths, including several TotalEnergies contractors. Survivors have filed a criminal complaint against TotalEnergies in France, accusing the company of failing to protect them and evacuate contractors during the attack. TotalEnergies denies these claims, stating they mobilized resources to rescue people. The case highlights the risks energy companies face in volatile regions, with similar security concerns affecting Chevron's operations in Israel. The outcome of the charges against TotalEnergies remains uncertain, but the incident underscores the growing challenges for energy companies operating in conflict zones.

French Chef Mory Sacko Is Building a Restaurant Empire

05 Oct 2023  |  Yahoo Entertainment
Mory Sacko, a celebrated French chef, has rapidly ascended in the Parisian fine dining scene, earning a Michelin star for his restaurant MoSuke and hosting the TV show 'Cuisine Ouverte.' Raised in a large family with Malian and Senegalese roots, Sacko's culinary style blends African, Japanese, and French influences. He is expanding his culinary empire with two MoSugo outlets and a new restaurant, Lafayette's, near the Elysée Palace. His innovative dishes and dynamic presence have made him a notable figure in Paris, with high anticipation for his upcoming ventures.

Are Fossil Fuels the Next Cigarettes?

23 Sep 2023  |  nytimes.com
California is suing major energy companies Shell, Exxon Mobil, and Chevron for allegedly hiding the environmental impact of fossil fuels for decades. The lawsuit seeks compensation for wildfire and smog mitigation costs and parallels the 1990s legal actions against Big Tobacco. The American Petroleum Institute has dismissed the suit as baseless. Historical ties between the tobacco and oil industries are highlighted, including shared research and suppression of damaging reports. The case aims to hold Big Oil accountable for climate change contributions, reminiscent of the successful collective action against tobacco companies.

Novo Nordisk developed Ozempic and started a weight-loss revolution. Its next moonshot is eliminating obesity altogether

31 Jul 2023  |  Fortune
Novo Nordisk's pharmaceutical factory in Hillerød, Denmark, is the source of Ozempic, a drug that has become synonymous with weight loss, particularly in Hollywood. Originally approved for Type 2 diabetes, Ozempic and its sister drug Wegovy have sparked a weight-loss frenzy, with shortages due to high demand. Novo Nordisk's sales rose 25% in early 2023, and the company predicts significant profit growth. The global weight-loss market is expected to expand as more treatments become available. However, concerns about the drugs' side effects and ethical implications of altering metabolism are growing. Novo Nordisk aims to prevent obesity altogether, building on its history of diabetes treatment and innovation in GLP-1 based medications. Despite competition from companies like Pfizer and Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk continues to lead in the weight-loss drug market, redefining obesity as a treatable disease.

Ozempic maker Novo Nordisk studying obesity prevention

21 Jun 2023  |  fortune.com
Novo Nordisk is focusing on obesity prevention by researching new weight-loss drugs that could stop the onset of obesity before it starts. The company aims to overcome the limitations of its current drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy, which are only effective while being taken and are prescribed after obesity or Type 2 diabetes has developed. Novo Nordisk's new research unit is exploring genetic markers to identify individuals at risk of obesity, similar to cancer research. The company also aims to make its drugs more effective and accessible, potentially developing long-lasting treatments administered less frequently.

Saudi Investors and MBS Head to Paris, Looking for Deals

16 Jun 2023  |  www.nytimes.com
Saudi Arabian investors, including Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, are in Paris seeking investment opportunities across various sectors. The Saudi Ministry of Investment is promoting the kingdom's ambitions at the VivaTech event, aiming to attract Western investors. With $3.2 trillion to invest by 2030, Saudi Arabia is diversifying its economy beyond fossil fuels. The visit includes meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and participation in the Paris Air Show, where significant deals may be announced. Despite past human rights controversies, investor interest in Saudi Arabia is growing.

Can ChatGPT help Klarna turn a profit again?

27 Apr 2023  |  Fortune
Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO and cofounder of Klarna, is facing a challenging year with the company's valuation dropping 85% due to various factors including rising interest rates, the Ukraine war, and recession fears. Klarna, known for its buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) service, has also posted a $1 billion net loss for 2022 and laid off 10% of its workforce. Despite these setbacks, the U.S. has become Klarna's largest market, with 34 million users. The company is now looking to maintain its position against competitors like PayPal and Apple, which recently introduced Apple Pay Later. Klarna is also exploring new business models and has partnered with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into its services. The company's future may hinge on its ability to adapt to the evolving fintech landscape and regulatory concerns over BNPL practices.

Sweden’s Klarna burned through $100 million a month to become a buy-now-pay-later giant in the U.S. Can ChatGPT help it turn a profit again?

27 Apr 2023  |  fortune.com
Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO of Klarna, faces a challenging year as the company's valuation drops and layoffs occur. Klarna, a pioneer in the buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) industry, has grown significantly, especially in the U.S., but now faces stiff competition from giants like PayPal and Apple. Despite financial setbacks, including a $1 billion net loss in 2022, Siemiatkowski remains optimistic about the future, particularly with the integration of ChatGPT to enhance Klarna's services. The company is also navigating regulatory concerns about data privacy and consumer debt. Klarna's strategy includes leveraging generative AI to transform from a payment platform to a comprehensive shopping tool, aiming to maintain its market leadership.

New EPA rules on EVs could boost this trucking startup

13 Apr 2023  |  fortune.com
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's new carbon-emissions limits for automakers and truck manufacturers could significantly benefit Einride, a Swedish mobility-software startup focused on electric heavy-duty trucks. The regulations mandate a substantial increase in electric vehicle adoption for buses, garbage trucks, and freight vehicles by 2032. Einride, which integrates its A.I.-powered software platform into electric trucks, has seen a surge in contract value and is expanding operations in the U.S. Despite challenges like high battery costs and the need for extensive charging infrastructure, the company is optimistic about the future of electric trucking, especially with rising oil prices and stricter environmental regulations.

Look out, Tesla: China’s biggest electric-car maker wants to take on the world

10 Apr 2023  |  fortune.com
BYD, China's largest electric vehicle manufacturer, is aggressively expanding its global presence, targeting markets in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. The company aims to challenge established automakers like Tesla by leveraging its expertise in battery technology and competitive pricing. Despite facing significant competition, BYD's sales are growing rapidly, with notable success in markets like Sweden. Industry experts believe BYD has a strategic advantage due to China's dominance in battery production. The company's expansion is seen as a significant development in the global electric vehicle market, with potential implications for Western automakers.

Macron Survives No-Confidence Vote But Pension Saga Remains

20 Mar 2023  |  TIME Stamped
French President Emmanuel Macron narrowly survived a no-confidence vote in parliament, following widespread protests and strikes against his pension reform plan to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64. The reform, pushed through using a constitutional clause, has led to significant political turmoil and public unrest, including strikes by garbage workers and teachers. Despite his victory, Macron's leadership is weakened, with concerns about his ability to pass future legislation. The political upheaval has also bolstered the far-right leader Marine Le Pen, raising fears about her potential election in 2027.

The Ukraine war made Telegram’s app more popular and important than ever. But making money is still a struggle

31 Jan 2023  |  Fortune
The war in Ukraine has significantly increased the popularity of the messaging app Telegram, particularly for its role in disseminating information and serving as a platform for both sides of the conflict. Despite the surge in users and downloads, Telegram's CEO Pavel Durov faces challenges in making the platform profitable. Efforts to monetize the app include raising $1 billion in convertible bonds, introducing paid subscriptions and advertising, and auctioning usernames. However, the company's commitment to privacy and free speech, as well as its lean operation, may deter potential investors. Telegram's history, including its origins after Durov's exile from Russia and its role as a haven for dissidents, underscores its importance in the current information war and raises questions about its financial sustainability.

Doomsday Clock 2023: What does 90 seconds to midnight mean?

25 Jan 2023  |  fortune.com
The Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of global threat levels, has been moved to 90 seconds to midnight, indicating the highest level of peril since its creation in 1947. This change reflects increased nuclear risks, particularly due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Clock, originating from the University of Chicago's Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, now also considers climate change and disruptive technologies. Despite its historical significance, some experts, including former head Lawrence M. Krauss, criticize it as unscientific and question its current relevance. International bodies like the United Nations also research global threats, with Secretary General Antonio Gutteres warning of the proximity to nuclear annihilation.

Doomsday Clock 2023: What does 90 seconds to midnight mean?

25 Jan 2023  |  Fortune Europe
The Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of global threat levels, was moved to 90 seconds to midnight, indicating the highest level of peril since its creation in 1947. This change reflects increased nuclear risks, particularly due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Clock, which originated from concerns about nuclear war during the Cold War, now also considers climate change and disruptive technologies. Despite its iconic status, some experts, including former head Lawrence M. Krauss, criticize it as unscientific and question its current relevance. International bodies like the United Nations also research global threats, with Secretary General Antonio Gutteres warning of the proximity to nuclear annihilation.

'Qatargate' World Cup scandal left Europe's politicians reeling—but corruption experts warn U.S. is not entirely protected from foreign influence peddling

23 Dec 2022  |  fortune.com
The 'Qatargate' scandal has significantly impacted European politics, highlighting vulnerabilities in the EU's anti-corruption measures. Despite stringent U.S. laws, experts warn that the U.S. is not immune to foreign influence, particularly from wealthy Gulf states like Qatar. The article details how Qatar has exploited legal loopholes to influence U.S. politics through lobbying, advertising, and cultural exchanges. The scandal has led to arrests and calls for stricter regulations in both Europe and the U.S., emphasizing the need for updated and clearer laws to combat modern forms of influence peddling.

Emmanuel Macron ridiculed after attempts to console Kylian Mbappe after France World Cup heartbreak

19 Dec 2022  |  fortune.com
Emmanuel Macron faced widespread ridicule and criticism for his attempts to console Kylian Mbappe and the French national team after their World Cup loss to Argentina. Critics from both political spectrums accused Macron of using the moment for political gain, with some comparing his actions to those of a character from 'The Office.' The backlash included comments on social media and from political figures, highlighting Macron's perceived opportunism and the environmental cost of his trips to Qatar. Despite the criticism, Mbappe's own reaction to Macron's presence remains unclear.

Unilever has settled its battle with Ben & Jerry’s over West Bank ice cream—but the minefield of doing business in Israel remains

16 Dec 2022  |  fortune.com
The legal and ethical dispute between Unilever and its subsidiary Ben & Jerry’s over the sale of ice cream in Israeli settlements has been resolved, highlighting the complexities of doing business in politically sensitive regions. Ben & Jerry’s decision to stop sales in the West Bank and Golan Heights, citing human rights concerns, led to backlash from pro-Israel groups and legal challenges. Unilever eventually sold its Israeli operations to local partner Avi Zinger, who will continue to sell the ice cream under the Ben & Jerry’s brand. The case underscores the challenges global companies face in balancing ethical commitments with business interests in contentious markets.

France vs. Morocco World Cup Semifinal Is Getting Political

14 Dec 2022  |  time.com
The World Cup semifinal between France and Morocco is charged with political and cultural significance, especially among North Africans in France. The match stirs complex feelings of identity, as many French citizens of North African descent grapple with whom to support. The game is seen as a historic moment for Morocco as the first African and Arab country to reach the semifinals. French far-right figures have criticized the Moroccan celebrations in Paris, while French President Macron's decision to attend the match in Qatar amidst human rights concerns and a corruption scandal has drawn criticism. The French team's immigrant makeup and the Moroccan team's European-born players of Moroccan heritage add to the game's narrative of intertwined identities.

Browse my personal website for a small selection of my work. Apologies for it being a little outdated. You can also click on http://time.com/author/vivienne-walt/ for the latest stories in TIME.

The Boss; Radio Days and Reality TV

27 Jun 2001  |  www.nytimes.com
Reflecting on his past, the author discusses the challenges of being married to Willeke Alberti, a major Dutch celebrity, and the impact it had on his life. He also shares his early career experiences, influenced by his father John de Mol, a prominent singer and radio station director in Holland. The narrative highlights the author's journey from being in the shadow of his famous spouse to carving out his own path in the media industry.

THE BOSS; Egalite, Fraternite et Burgers

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