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Popular Force
paydesk has 36 reporters who cover Popular Force. Our journalists are already on location, all over the world, and ready to work at a moment's notice. Our top correspondents who cover Popular Force are Azhar Al-Rubaie and Mohammed Harun Arsalai. Use our journalist directory to find an Popular Force member to work for you.
Journalists Who Cover Popular Force
Azhar Al-Rubaie
Azhar Al-Rubaie has worked as a journalist in Iraq since 2014. In 2018 he did a series of articles in many topics, including Politics, health, society, wars, militias ,human rights and LGBTQ rights. His is featured in the Arab Weekly, VICE news, Al-Jazeera, DW, Raseef 22, Washington Institute for ...
Arabic
English
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Vox Pop
News Gathering
+7
Politics
Science & Environment
Arts & Books
+10
Usually Responds Within a month
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Living in fear: A new threat to Iraq's LGBTQ+ community
Iraq's LGBTQ+ community is facing a new threat as MPs move to pass legislation banning homosexuality, despite the current penal code not explicitly mentioning it. The community already suffers from violence, discrimination, and 'honour killings'. Activists like Amir Ashour of IraQueer and Talal al-Hariri of the October 25 movement condemn the proposed law and the government's failure to protect minorities. They suggest the law is a distraction from Iraq's political and economic issues. The international community's pressure is deemed insufficient as LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face daily discrimination and fear for their lives.
Informative
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Mohammed Harun Arsalai
Mohammed Harun Arsalai is an independent journalist - his work has been featured in the Nation, Al Jazeera, LA Times, TRT World, Muftah Magazine, The New Arab, OZY, AJ + among many others Mohammed is cofounder of the independent media project, Documenting Afghanistan. Currently on the based ...
English
Pashto
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Feature Stories
Content Writing
+7
Politics
War Reporter
Investigative Reporting
+5
Related Articles
Iran’s Shifting Afghan Alliances Don’t Fit Easy Narratives
The assassination of Qassem Suleimani has sparked debates about Iran's pragmatic and opportunistic foreign policy, particularly in Afghanistan. Iran's alliances, including with the Taliban, are driven by strategic interests rather than ideological consistency. Historical context reveals Iran's flexible approach, from supporting Afghan mujahideen against the Soviet Union to collaborating with the U.S. post-9/11. Iran's relationship with the Taliban has evolved, influenced by mutual interests against the Islamic State. Suleimani's legacy includes controversial recruitment practices for the Fatemiyoun Brigade. Iran's actions in Afghanistan aim to secure its political project, highlighting the complexity of its regional role.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Alessandra Bajec
Alessandra Bajec is a journalist based in Cairo since 2013. From 2010 to 2011, she lived Palestine where she made her first steps as a freelance journalist. She has experience in writing for print, online media along with some radio experience. Her work has appeared in UN's IRIN, Russia Today's rt....
Arabic
English
French
+2
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Feature Stories
+7
Business
Politics
Current Affairs
+2
Usually Responds Within a few minutes
Related Articles
Yazidis In Limbo As Iraqi Forces & Armed Militants Fight in Northern Iraq
Since the Islamic State's invasion of Sinjar in 2014, the Yazidi community has faced genocide, leading to the displacement of approximately 300,000 Yazidis. Despite the defeat of ISIS, Sinjar remains largely in ruins, lacking basic infrastructure and services, which prevents many Yazidis from returning home. The security situation is further complicated by the presence of various armed groups and frequent Turkish airstrikes. The Yazidi community continues to live in dire conditions in IDP camps and informal settlements, with limited access to education, healthcare, and employment. Organizations like the Free Yezidi Foundation offer support and training to help Yazidis rebuild their lives, but the lack of government action and international assistance hampers recovery and return efforts.
Factual
Factuality Scale
Martin Chulov
Martin Chulov is the Guardian's Middle East correspondent. Winner of 2015 The Orwell Prize for Journalism and the Foreign Press Association (London) Journalist Of The Year and Feature Writer Of The Year.
English
Feature Stories
Content Writing
Corporate Content
+6
Business
Politics
Current Affairs
+4
Jobs Completed 23
Job Success Rate 100%
Usually Responds Seldom
Related Articles
'The militias are not allowing us back': Sunnis languish in camps, years after recapture of Mosul
Six years after the only public appearance of the self-declared leader of the Islamic State, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, at Mosul’s Great Mosque of al-Nuri, at least 400,000 Iraqis remain in internment camps across the north of the country. Most are Sunni Iraqis who fear they are no longer considered partners in postwar Iraq. The displaced people are housed in camps across northern Iraq and in the territory of the Kurdish regional government. The shift in power appears permanent to some displaced residents, who fear being stigmatised by a rival sect. Aid organisations warn that delays in finding solutions could create new and permanent faultlines in Iraqi society.
Dale Gavlak
Dale Gavlak is a journalist based in Amman, Jordan. She is presently in the UK and Germany until April 18.
English
News Gathering
Fact Checking
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 249
Job Success Rate 98%
Related Articles
Iraq's Catholic cardinal leaves Baghdad after president revokes decree recognizing church's authority
Iraq's Chaldean Catholic Cardinal Louis Sako has relocated to a monastery in Kurdistan after President Abdul Latif Rashid revoked a decree recognizing him as the Chaldean patriarch. The revocation, seen as a political maneuver influenced by the Babylon Brigades and Iran, has sparked concerns about the targeting of Christians in Iraq. Chaldean Catholic Archbishop Bashar Warda and Christian rights activist Diya Butrus Slewa criticized the decision, calling for its reversal and warning of potential international involvement. The situation underscores the complex interplay of religion and politics in Iraq.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center-Left
Political View
Jack Hewson
Jack Hewson is a freelance journalist based in Kyiv, Ukraine, after 10 years reporting across the world. Previously he was France 24's correspondent in Baghdad, Iraq, and Indonesia-Philippines. He has reported live on countless breaking news stories for clients, including BBC, Sky News, France 24, ...
English
Indonesian
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Documentaries
+5
Business
Politics
Current Affairs
+12
Jobs Completed 70
Job Success Rate 92%
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
Militia-backed candidates aim to consolidate power in Iraq polls
Candidates linked to militias are playing a significant role in Iraq's October 10 legislative elections by forming political parties like the Rights Movement, led by former Hezbollah Brigades spokesman Hussein Moanes. Critics argue that these candidates have an unfair advantage and hinder necessary reforms. Independent candidates face significant challenges due to the influence of armed groups, making it a matter of life and death, according to journalist Saif Ali.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Left
Political View
Toby Hill
Toby Hill is a freelance journalist based in Asuncion, Paraguay, covering social, political and environmental issues. He was previously based in Bolivia, where he wrote on indigneous activism for the Guardian and the country's gridlocked prison system for OpenDemocracy, among many other themes.
English
Feature Stories
Content Writing
Corporate Content
+7
Business
Politics
Current Affairs
+4
Usually Responds Seldom
Related Articles
Premises of community-run radio Radio Mandu'arä, in the remote rural east of Paraguay
The article discusses the suppression of community-run radios in Paraguay, particularly Radio Mandu’arã, as part of a broader pattern of government efforts to silence alternative voices and control the democratic process. It highlights the unequal land distribution in Paraguay, where a small percentage of the population controls the majority of agricultural land, leading to extreme poverty among rural campesinos. The article also covers the historical context of land ownership issues dating back to the Stroessner dictatorship, the impact of multinational agribusinesses like Cargill, ADM, and Bunge on smallholder farmers, and the resistance movements fighting for land rights. The Curuguaty massacre and the subsequent political upheaval, including the impeachment of President Fernando Lugo, are examined. The article concludes with the government's crackdown on media, including the purchase of major media outlets by President Horacio Cartes, contrasting it with the silenced community radios that once served the rural poor.
Yusuf Selman Inanc
I am a freelance journalist, based in Turkey. I mainly cover Turkey's national news, the Syrian war-related issues, the refugee crisis, and Turkey's foreign policy towards Middle East, Africa and Central Asia. I've been contributing to international media outlets as a reporter. Besides, I've been ...
Arabic
English
French
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
News Gathering
Feature Stories
+9
Politics
War Reporter
Investigative Reporting
+4
Usually Responds Within an hour
Related Articles
Soleimani’s murder still echoes in chaos-hit Iraq
The killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani by the U.S. in January continues to impact American troops in Iraq, with a recent rocket attack killing American and British soldiers in Baghdad. The U.S. retaliated with strikes on pro-Iranian militia positions. Tensions have escalated as the U.S. accuses Iran of hostile actions in the Gulf and the region, leading to a proxy war between the two nations. Despite President Trump's intention to withdraw troops from the Middle East, recent events have compelled the U.S. to reinforce its military presence to counter Iran's influence.
Informative
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Saeid Jafari
Saeid Jafari is an Iranian journalist and an analyst on Middle Eastern affairs. He is a contributor to various media outlets such as Al-Monitor, Foreign Policy, Atlantic Council, National Interest, Middle East Eye, and Euronews. He has also worked for many Iranian media outlets including Aseman, ...
English
Italian
Persian (Farsi)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Content Writing
+5
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 648
Job Success Rate 100%
Related Articles
Iran’s Cautious Approach to the Taliban’s Rise
The article discusses Iran's cautious stance on the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, highlighting the historical animosity and ideological differences between the two, particularly after the 1998 attack on the Iranian consulate. Despite these differences, both share a common animosity towards the U.S., and Iran has had some contact with the Taliban in recent years. Iran's policy towards Afghanistan includes supporting intra-Afghan talks and a subtle approval of the Taliban's anti-Western stance. The article also touches on Iran's use of proxy groups, like the Fatemiyoun Division, and the potential for Iran to use these groups in Afghanistan post-U.S. withdrawal. The author, Saeid Jafari, suggests that while Iran has welcomed the U.S. exit and the Taliban's rise, it remains to be seen whether this will lead to favorable outcomes for Iran or pose new security challenges, especially with the potential for Saudi influence in Afghanistan.
Gideon Long
Gideon Long is a journalist based in Santiago, Chile.
English
Feature Stories
Content Writing
Corporate Content
+6
Fact Checking
Related Articles
Is Peru becoming an ungovernable country?
Peru is experiencing severe political instability under President Pedro Castillo, who has made numerous cabinet changes in just eight months. Castillo's government faces criticism for incompetence and corruption, with significant opposition from rightwing parties and the business elite. The political turmoil has led to erratic government policies and declining approval ratings for both the president and congress. Despite the instability, the Peruvian economy remains relatively resilient. The upcoming impeachment vote poses a significant threat to Castillo's presidency, with potential outcomes including his removal, resignation, or continued governance amidst ongoing political strife.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Left
Political View
Adam Lucente
Multimedia journalist based in Erbil covering Iraq and Syria.
English
Feature Stories
Fact Checking
War Reporter
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 1
Related Articles
In post-Islamic State northern Iraq, demographic changes raise concerns
In northern Iraq's Nineveh Plains, demographic changes following the defeat of the Islamic State have led to tensions between the Shabak and Christian communities. The Shabak population has increased significantly in historically Christian towns like Bartella and Qaraqosh, leading to concerns among Christians about forced demographic changes. The Shabak attribute their migration to better living conditions in towns compared to villages. The area remains strategically important, with influence from Iran and its militia allies. Despite some claims of forced demographic changes, others argue that economic factors and emigration are the primary reasons for the shifts in population.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Pesha Magid
Pesha Magid is a freelance journalist currently based out Baghdad.
Arabic
English
Spanish
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Vox Pop
Feature Stories
+9
Business
Politics
Current Affairs
+8
Related Articles
Islamic State Aims for Comeback Amid Virus-Expedited U.S. Withdrawal
The U.S. withdrawal from Iraq, expedited by the coronavirus pandemic, has created a security vacuum that the Islamic State and Iran are eager to exploit. The reduction in U.S. military presence has left large areas of the Iraqi desert unmonitored, raising concerns among local militias and Iraqi security forces about their ability to suppress ISIS resurgence. The situation is further complicated by ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with Iran-backed militias promising retaliation for the killing of Qassem Suleimani. The withdrawal has also sparked fears among ordinary Iraqis about increased Iranian influence and the potential for renewed conflict. Despite the U.S. military's confidence in the capabilities of Iraqi forces, the lack of coalition support, particularly in air support and intelligence gathering, poses significant challenges in combating the Islamic State's guerrilla tactics.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center-Right
Political View
Donald Matthys
Donald Matthys is a journalist based in Windhoek, Namibia.
Afrikaans
English
Feature Stories
Content Writing
Corporate Content
+5
Business
Finance
Politics
+12
Usually Responds Within a week
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Criminals loot billions from Namibia
Namibia loses an average of N$4.6 billion annually due to illicit financial flows, including money laundering, bribery, and tax evasion. The Bank of Namibia has concluded a pilot project to estimate these losses and plans to present a report to the Cabinet. The country faces potential financial sanctions from the Financial Action Task Force if it does not comply with international anti-money laundering standards by October 2023. Various legislative measures are being considered to avoid these sanctions. Popular Democratic Movement leader McHenry Venaani and independent researcher Josef Sheehama emphasize the need for stricter regulations and transparency to combat financial crimes.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Salma Mohamed
Salma Mohamed is a Correspondent Reporter at Voice of America based in Mombasa. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Development Studies from Mount Kenya University with over 16 years of experience in the media industry. Her biggest passion is to create social change by telling stories that are ...
English
Swahili
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+14
Business
Politics
Current Affairs
+19
Jobs Completed 314
Job Success Rate 100%
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
For Iraqis, no easy escape from Iran’s domination
Iraq faces a critical juncture as anti-government protests continue, driven by discontent with Iran's deep-rooted influence and the Iraqi government's corruption and inefficiency. The protests, which have seen significant casualties, demand an end to Iranian interference and a more representative government. Various Iraqi political groups are emerging to champion national sovereignty. Analysts suggest that distancing from Iran could attract foreign investment and stabilize the country. The Iraqi government must choose between remaining under Iran's influence or adopting a pro-sovereignty stance to address the people's demands.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center-Right
Political View
Sofia Nitti
Sofia Nitti is a journalist and videoreporter working for French, Italian and English-speaking media outlets.
English
French
Italian
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+11
Politics
Current Affairs
War Reporter
+5
Jobs Completed 3
Related Articles
Sadr says Iraqi army must 'take charge' after attack on PM
Shia cleric Muqtada Sadr has called for Iraq's army and security forces to take control following an assassination attempt on Prime Minister Mustafa Kadhimi. Sadr emphasized the need for the military to ensure Iraq's stability and security, condemning the attack as a terrorist act aimed at creating chaos. The assassination attempt occurred after Sadr's political coalition, Sairoon, emerged as the largest party in the recent elections, while the pro-Iran Fatah Alliance performed poorly. Sadr's statement reflects his nationalist stance and criticism of pro-Iran militias, which are accused of human rights abuses but deny involvement in the attack.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center-Left
Political View
Joe Parkin Daniels
Joe Parkin Daniels is a journalist based in Bogota, Colombia.
Jobs Completed 2
Related Articles
Alleged Colombian cartel head due in New York court after extradition
Dairo Antonio Úsuga, the alleged head of Colombia's Gulf Clan cartel, is set to appear in a New York federal court following his extradition on cocaine and weapons charges. Victims in Colombia demand he reveal the extent of atrocities committed by his paramilitary forces. Úsuga, known as Otoniel, was captured in October, a significant blow to Colombia's drug trade. However, concerns remain that his extradition may hinder uncovering the truth about the armed conflict and its ties to politicians and businesspeople. Gustavo Petro, a presidential candidate, emphasized the importance of prioritizing victims' confessions in extradition proceedings.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Left
Political View
Dario Sabaghi
Journalist interested in human rights and International news. Coverage of Ukrainian crisis in 2014 from Kiev and Crimea. Reporting conditions of Syrian and Palestinian refugee camps in Jordan. Investigation about violation of human rights towards Kurds in Southeastern Turkey. Feature Photo ...
English
Italian
News Gathering
Feature Stories
Content Writing
+6
Business
Politics
Current Affairs
+9
Jobs Completed 4
Related Articles
Assassination of Hamas Leader in Lebanon Escalates Middle East Tensions
The assassination of Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri in Lebanon has heightened tensions in the Middle East, with potential implications for Hezbollah's response and broader regional stability. The Islamic State's claim of responsibility for bombings in Iran and South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice further complicate the geopolitical landscape. The U.S. has urged Israel to minimize civilian casualties in Gaza, while a U.S. airstrike in Baghdad killed a leader of the Iranian-backed militia Harakat al-Nujaba, adding to the regional volatility.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Mustafa Salim
Mustafa Bannay is a journalist based in Baghdad, Iraq.
English
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Investigative Journalism
+2
Politics
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 21
Job Success Rate 91%
Usually Responds Within an hour
Related Articles
US strikes rile key allies in Iraq
Recent U.S. airstrikes in Syria and Iraq, aimed at Iranian-backed militias, have sparked significant backlash in Iraq, complicating the country's relationship with the United States. The strikes, intended to deter attacks on U.S. troops, have been perceived by many Iraqis as an assault on their sovereignty and stability. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani faces increasing pressure to confront the U.S. and expedite the withdrawal of American forces. The situation underscores the challenges of maintaining a security partnership with Iraq amid regional conflicts and internal political dynamics. Key figures and organizations involved include Kataib Hezbollah, the Popular Mobilization Forces, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center-Left
Political View
Dahlia Scheindlin
Dahlia Scheindlin is a journalist and a public opinion expert; she is also a political analyst and campaign advisor with twenty years of experience, specializing in liberal and progressive social causes. Dahlia has advised eight national campaigns in Israel and has worked in 15 other countries ...
English
Hebrew
Feature Stories
Content Writing
Research
+3
Politics
Current Affairs
Research
+1
Jobs Completed 2
Related Articles
The Man Who Saved Iraq
In 2014, as the Islamic State threatened Iraq, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani issued a decree urging Iraqis to unite against the extremists, significantly influencing the country's stability. Sistani's indirect clerical authority contrasts with Iran's direct rule model, earning him respect among Shia Muslims. His leadership has been pivotal in Iraq's political landscape, advocating for democracy and opposing corruption. Despite criticisms, particularly regarding the Popular Mobilization Units, Sistani remains a key figure in promoting stability and self-determination in Iraq.
Balanced
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Naseh Shaker
Freelance journalist based in Sana'a, Yemen.
Arabic
English
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Fact Checking
Politics
Natural Disasters
War Reporter
+3
Related Articles
How Al-Sadr's retirement from political life reflects on Iraq's political spectrum
Moqtada Al-Sadr's resignation from political life led to significant unrest in Baghdad, with his supporters storming the presidential palace and clashing with security forces, resulting in casualties. Al-Sadr's resignation is seen as a strategic move to leverage his political influence, though his actions have been criticized as performative. The situation prompted responses from various political figures and organizations, including the Iraqi government and the United Nations. The article highlights the ongoing political instability in Iraq and the significant influence of Al-Sadr and his movement.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View
Simeon Tegel
Simeon Tegel is a widely-published British journalist based in Lima, Peru, and roaming across Latin America. He is a regular contributor to The Washington Post and NPR, and his work has featured in many other outlets, including The Independent, The Telegraph, Vice News, USA Today, Foreign Policy, ...
English
Spanish
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+15
Business
Finance
Politics
+25
Jobs Completed 12
Job Success Rate 100%
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
Peru braces for protests after former President Fujimori's release from prison
Peru is preparing for protests following the release of former President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year sentence for human rights abuses. The constitutional court's decision to reinstate his 2017 pardon has sparked outrage, with critics arguing it undermines justice and human rights. Fujimori's release has been condemned by various figures, including Amnesty International and Cardinal Pedro Barreto. The pardon has also raised concerns about Peru's legal system and the influence of the conservative-dominated congress. Fujimori still faces future trials, including for forced sterilizations and a massacre by a death squad.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Left
Political View
Menekse Tokyay
Menekse Tokyay is a journalist based in Ankara, Turkey. Since 2010, I am a Turkey correspondent and writer to many international outlets, including Southeastern European Times, Al Arabiya English, Arab News, International Business Times -UK, Business News Europe, Deutsche Welle, Washington Post ...
English
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Fact Checking
Breaking News
Fact Checking
Jobs Completed 34
Job Success Rate 94%
Related Articles
Can Gaza humanitarian pause be starting point for end to Israel-Hamas war?
Humanitarian aid organizations are calling for the four-day truce between Israel and Hamas in Gaza to become a permanent ceasefire, emphasizing the urgent need for continuous aid and the severe humanitarian crisis in the region. The truce aims to facilitate aid flow and involves a prisoner swap, but both sides indicate fighting will resume once the truce ends. Aid groups criticize the truce as insufficient, highlighting the dire conditions in Gaza, including widespread destruction, lack of safe spaces, and severe shortages of essential supplies. The article also reports on the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, escalating tensions further. The UN and various organizations call for more entry points for aid and a sustained ceasefire, while Israel's military actions and the humanitarian impact are heavily criticized.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Left
Political View
Cassandra Vinograd
Cassandra Vinograd is a freelance journalist and producer specializing in conflict, human rights and migration. She previously worked for NBC News, The Associated Press and The Wall Street Journal. Her reporting has taken her throughout Africa, Europe and the Middle East. She is HEFAT certified....
English
French
Wolof
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Vox Pop
News Gathering
+10
Politics
Current Affairs
Technology
+8
Usually Responds Within a few weeks
Related Articles
Israel Strikes an Iranian Military Base, but Damage Appears Limited
The Israeli military conducted a limited strike on an Iranian military air base near Isfahan in retaliation for an earlier aerial attack on Israel. The strike involved small drones and missiles, with minimal damage reported. Both Israeli and Iranian officials have downplayed the incident, and world leaders are urging de-escalation to prevent a wider conflict in the Middle East. The U.S. was notified of the strike but did not participate. The incident highlights the ongoing shadow war between Israel and Iran, with both sides engaging in retaliatory actions.
Informative
Factuality Scale
Anna Zamejc
Anna Zamejc is a freelance journalist based in Prague, Czech Republic. Since 2009, she has reported on political, economic, and social issues in the South Caucasus, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. As a freelance journalist, she has contributed to RFE/RL, Voice of America, New Eastern Europe, ...
Azerbaijani
Czech
English
+1
Feature Stories
Risk Analysis
Interview (Print / Radio / Podcast)
+1
Politics
Current Affairs
War Reporter
+3
Jobs Completed 1
Usually Responds Within a day
Related Articles
Elections in Azerbaijan: No Sign of Spring [OPINION]
The parliamentary elections in Azerbaijan have disappointed many who hoped for fairer processes, as preliminary results indicate the ruling New Azerbaijan Party's (YAP) uncontested victory. Despite announced reforms, the elections were marred by violations such as carousel voting, intimidation of independent observers, and ballot stuffing. The opposition, including the Republican Alternative (REAL), faced an uneven race, with only one opposition politician likely to enter the 125-member parliament. International observers and local activists expressed disillusionment, with genuine turnout estimated at around 20%, significantly lower than the official 47%. The elections were seen as a litmus test for the government's intentions and the direction of declared changes, but the results suggest a continuation of the status quo. The lack of democratic standards in Azerbaijan's elections has implications for the region, with concerns about the country's distancing from European values and potential increases in social tensions.
Interpretive
Factuality Scale
Center
Political View