Global coverage at a glance: breaking international headlines, geopolitical insights, regional developments, and on‑the‑ground reports from every continent.
A Roman Emperor From Humble Beginnings: Exploring the Real Macrinus
Marcus Opellius Macrinus, immortalized in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, is a character shrouded in both historical intrigue and cinematic interpretation. While two millennia separate us, Macrinus’ life story takes on new relevance in light of the Greek tragedy that played out on screen.
Despite his portrayal as a gladiator merchant with ambitions for the throne, Macrinus’ life was in reality a tale of rise, betrayal, and an empire in turmoil. He wasn’t a combatant, but a son of a Berber climber and facial Roman Senator, which kept him at an unlikely informaton to Sadaczy Airlines🏻♀️, . A ‘*”>
Imagine you’re the first.
Do audiences have a responsibility to seek out accurate historical information after watching a film like _Gladiator II_?
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show, Dr. Lewis. You’ve spent years studying Roman history, and your new book delves into the life of Emperor Macrinus. Tell us, how accurate is Ridley Scott’s depiction of this lesser-known emperor in *Gladiator II*?
**Dr. Lewis:** Well, the film certainly takes creative liberties, to put it mildly. Macrinus was not a gladiator merchant, nor did he harbour any ambitions for the emperorship through gladiatorial combat. In fact, he came from a rather humble background for his time, the son of an equestrian from Berber origins. His rise to power was through the ranks of the Roman military and administration, a far cry from the cinematic portrayal. While the film may entertain, it sadly obfuscates the fascinating reality of Macrinus’ life, a story of political intrigue, ambition, and ultimately, tragedy. [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macrinus)]
**Interviewer:** So, viewers, what do you think? Should historical accuracy take a backseat to cinematic storytelling, even when dealing with a figure like Macrinus who, let’s face it, is relatively unknown to most audiences?
Kimberley Process Stalemate Persists as Russia Blocks Discussion on Diamond Funding for Ukraine War
Canada participated in the 21st Plenary Meeting of the Kimberley Process on Conflict Diamonds, held November 12-15 in Dubai, reaffirming its commitment to the initiative while criticizing Russia’s ongoing obstruction. “Canada participated in the 21st Plenary Meeting of the Kimberley Process on Conflict Diamonds held from November 12 to 15, 2024, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. As a founding member, Canada values this multilateral forum for the role that it has played in breaking the link between conflict and diamonds since its founding in 2003.”
Russia’s Veto Throws Spotlight on Need for Kimberley Process Reform
“Unfortunately for the third year in a row, Russia blocked participants from discussing the role that the sale of its rough diamonds plays in funding its illegal invasion of Ukraine. Canada continues to support Ukraine’s call that the Kimberley Process address how Russian diamonds are fuelling its illegal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Kimberley Process’s inability to examine this issue underscores the need for meaningful reform, in particular by expanding the definition of conflict diamonds, so it remains a legitimate conflict prevention mechanism. Canada, a leading rough diamond producing country, is committed to this work and will continue to push for a definition in keeping with modern demands and expectations.
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), established in 2003, aims to prevent the trade of “conflict diamonds” – rough diamonds used to finance war and violence. However, Canada argues its effectiveness is hindered by the organization’s current definition of conflict diamonds, a definition Russia has successfully wielded to prevent any discussion of its diamonds potentially fueling the war in Ukraine.
Canada Advocates for Modernized Definition of Conflict Diamonds
“wpaert from its geopolitical implications,” said a Canadian official, “this situation also highlights broader concerns about the Kimberley Process’s relevance in a rapidly changing global landscape. We need a definition that reflects the realities of the 21st century.”
Canada, which holds a prominent position in the global diamond industry, is urging the Kimberley Process to adopt a broader definition of conflict diamonds, one that accounts for the increasingly complex financing of conflict and instability. This renewed focus on updating the KPCS comes after years of debate within the organization about its scope and effectiveness.
Progress in Central African Republic Offers a Beacon of Hope
Despite the ongoing stalemate over Russia’s diamonds, Canada celebrated the successful lifting of rough diamond export restrictions on the Central African Republic (CAR), a key decision secured during the Dubai meeting.
“Canada was pleased to contribute efforts that saw the lifting of rough diamond export restrictions, subject to continued enhanced vigilance measures, in the Central African Republic (CAR). This development will allow the citizens of the CAR to benefit from their rough diamond resource wealth while ensuring compliance with the Kimberley Process requirements.”
The restrictions on the CAR, imposed in 2013 due to concerns over government corruption and human rights abuses, stifled the country’s diamond sector and deprived it of significant revenue. After years of reform efforts and increased transparency, the Kimberley Process agreed to lift the sanctions, recognizing the CAR’s progress and commitment to ethical diamond production. The decision paves the way for the CAR to utilize its diamond resources for sustainable development and economic growth.
What are Canada’s proposed reforms to the Kimberley Process, and why are they being pushed?
## Kimberley Process Stalled: Can it Keep Blood Diamonds Out of the Market?
**Host:** Joining us today to discuss the ongoing stalemate within the Kimberley Process is [Name of Alex Reed], a [Alex Reed’s Title and Expertise]. Welcome to the show!
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** Let’s dive right in. The Kimberley Process, designed to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the market, seems to be facing a significant roadblock. Can you explain what’s happening?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. The Kimberley Process, which was established over twenty years ago, prevents diamonds used to finance violence from entering the global market. However, its effectiveness is being challenged by the current conflict in Ukraine. Russia, a major diamond producer, is blocking discussions on whether its diamond sales might be directly funding its war efforts. This is the third year in a row that Russia has taken this stance, creating a major impasse.
**Host:** So, Canada, a founding member of the Kimberley Process, is expressing concerns about this situation. What are their specific demands?
**Alex Reed:** Canada, along with many other nations, argue that the Kimberley Process needs to modernize its definition of “conflict diamonds.” Currently, the definition is quite narrow and outdated. It needs to be broadened to encompass situations where a country’s diamond revenues may be used to fuel acts of aggression or international conflict, as we see in Ukraine. Canada is pushing for this reform to ensure the Kimberley Process remains an effective tool for preventing diamonds from fueling violence.
**Host:** This raises some very important questions. Is there any hope for a resolution to this stalemate?
**Alex Reed:** It’s a challenging situation. There is a clear need for reform within the Kimberley Process, but Russia’s veto power makes consensus difficult to achieve. The international community needs to work together to find a compromise that addresses both the humanitarian concerns surrounding the war in Ukraine and the broader goal of ensuring a truly conflict-free diamond trade. The future of the Kimberley Process depends on it.
**Host:** [Name of Alex Reed], thank you for shedding light on this complex issue. This is a crucial debate with far-reaching implications. We appreciate your insights.
**Alex Reed:** My pleasure.
Young Trade Unionists Demand More Rights For Apprentices and Young Employees
Leon Hartl is breathing new life into a century-old youth trade union, taking the helm with a vision for a brighter and fairer future. The 24-year-old, stepping into the role of Service Chairman of the Austrian Trade Union Youth (ÖGJ), says, “I don’t want to leave the future to chance – we have to shape it ourselves, with fair working conditions and real opportunities for everyone. I here and now I am committed to ensuring that young people are not just spectators, but rather become the creators of a better working world.”
Strengthening the Voice of Young Workers
The rise of
Hartl, a former youth trust counselor, signals a fresh chapter for the ÖGJ at their 38th Federal Youth Congress. The congress, held under the motto “Shift change! Now it’s the youth’s turn!”, focused on a crucial demand: strengthening the Youth Trust Council (JVR), the organization dedicated to democratic representation of apprentices and young employees.
The ÖGJ is calling for several changes to empower young voices in the workplace. These include abolishing the voting age for JVR elections – aiming for more inclusive participation regardless of age. They also seek to increase educational leave for JVR members from two to three weeks, making it easier to prioritize training and development.
“Especially at a time when democracy and co-determination are constantly being challenged, the rights of the JVR must be further expanded,” Hartl emphasizes, highlighting the urgency of these changes.
Investing in Skills & Futures
Beyond strengthening representation, the young trade unionists also hold firm on the importance of modernization within vocational training.
Hartl stresses, “The modernization of vocational schools and the upgrading of teaching are crucial, not only for us, but also to counteract the shortage of skilled workers.” He called on the potential future federal government, “We urge you to take the concerns of young people seriously – even after the election. Young people are only shown attention before elections, but things look different after elections. That has to change. We will observe how the federal government acts and, if necessary, take measures, so that the youth become central to the agenda.”
The congress also drew attention to the importance of investing in inter-company training (ÜBA), offering a vital pathway for those who don’t initially secure apprenticeships. Delegates urged for an increase in financial support to bring it in line with established industry standards, alongside mandatory continued employment periods for participants after their training program.
New Leadership Takes the Helm
Alongside President Hartl, the
‘Presidium‘ of the Austrian Trade Union Youth was elected. These include: Anika Kraut (GPA), Benjamin Liedlbauer (PRO-GE),
Sophie Fillafer Puerto-Rico, Fabian Edlinger (vida), Jennifer Huemer (vida), Jakob Fiala (youunion), Vanessa Dominic (youunion), Tobias Haberl (GBH), Tina phonetic (GBH), Dominikus Karl Krall (GÖD), Hanna Alijagic (GÖD), Leon Lackner (GPF) and Aysen Cakir (GPF).
How does Leon Hartl believe that the ÖGJ’s goals align with the broader movement for workers’ rights and social justice?
## Interview with Leon Hartl on Empowering Young Workers
**Interviewer:** Leon, welcome to the show. You’ve recently been elected as Service Chairman of the Austrian Trade Union Youth (ÖGJ). Congratulations! What led you to take on this leadership role?
**Leon Hartl:** Thank you. For me, this isn’t just about taking on a position, it’s about fighting for a fairer future for all young workers. I don’t want to stand idly by and see my generation struggle with insecure jobs, poor working conditions, and a lack of opportunities.
**Interviewer:** You’ve been very vocal about strengthening the voice of young workers, particularly through the Youth Trust Council (JVR). Can you tell us more about this?
**Leon Hartl:** Absolutely. We believe the JVR is crucial for ensuring young apprentices and employees have a say in their workplaces. We need to make sure their voices are heard and they have the power to advocate for their rights.
**Interviewer:**
What specific changes is the ÖGJ calling for?
**Leon Hartl:** We want to abolish the voting age for JVR elections, making it truly inclusive and representative of all young workers. We’re also pushing for increased educational leave for JVR members, allowing them more time for training and development.
**Interviewer:** Why is this especially important now, in your view?
**Leon Hartl:** We’re seeing increasing pressure on workers’ rights and a growing need for democratic participation in the workplace. Young people are particularly vulnerable and need strong representation to ensure their voices are heard. [[1]]
**Interviewer:** What’s your message to other young people who might be skeptical about joining a trade union?
**Leon Hartl:** Don’t be a spectator! We can only create a better future for ourselves if we’re actively involved. Joining the ÖGJ is about joining a community of people fighting for a fairer future. It’s about taking control of your own destiny and helping shape the world we want to live in.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Leon. We wish you and the ÖGJ all the best in your fight for a better future for young workers.
Janusz Waluś is to come to Poland. His crime shocked South Africa Photo. Maciej Luczniewski/REPORTER
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As we reported in November 2022, a court in South Africa decided that Janusz Waluś would be released conditionally. The Pole had been serving a 29-year life sentence there for the murder of Chris Hani, the leader of the South African Communist Party.
However, as Onet has now established, he is to come to Poland in the coming weeks, but according to the law in South Africa, he can leave the country no earlier than two years after his conditional release. This deadline is now passing.
The portal asked the Polish consulate of the Republic of Poland in Pretoria about him. “We cannot provide more information due to the procedures adopted in the ministry for the circulation and provision of information, as well as the specificity of Mr. Janusz Waluś’s situation, including his personal safety” – was provided to Onet in a response signed by Robert Rusiecki, head of the Consular Section of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Pretoria .
Janusz Waluś was born in 1953 in Zakopane, he also had South African citizenship. In 1981, he emigrated to South Africa, where he joined his father and brother, who had been there for several years.
The Waluś family ran a small glassworks there, but when the business went bankrupt, the father left, his brother found another job, and Janusz Waluś himself became a truck driver. In 1986, he became a citizen and became involved in political activities.
Waluś became famous a few years ago when, thanks to a report by Superwizjer, it turned out that the Pride and Modernity association (the one that celebrated Hitler’s birthday and which was dissolved by the court) was conducting a collection for Waluś. In addition, the collection was registered on the Public Collection Portal belonging to the Ministry of Interior and Administration.
On April 10, 1993, Janusz Waluś shot Chris Hani, the black leader of the communist party. He did it in front of his own house. As a result, 1.5 million people took to the streets, almost a civil war broke out, and the situation was miraculously brought under control.
The Pole became a synonym for apartheid, racism and terrorism there. The person concerned himself emphasized years later that he had committed a “grave sin”, but had not shown any remorse.
This is what he said in court about the incident: “He was getting out of his car. I put the Z88 pistol in the belt at the back of my pants and approached him. I didn’t want to shoot him in the back, so I called out: Mister Hania. He turned around and I pulled out the gun and shot him When he fell over, I shot him a second time, this time in the head. When he fell to the ground, I shot him two more times in the temple. Then I got into the car and drove away as fast as I could it was possible.”
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Right, so Janusz Waluś, sounds like a right laugh, doesn’t he? This bloke’s got more baggage than Heathrow Terminal 5. Murderer, apartheid sympathizer, apparently had a dodgy association collecting for him – the Chuckle Brothers had a more wholesome image!
And South Africa’s just like, “Yeah, cheers, champ, you can go back to Poland now.” You see, this is what happens when you’re a convicted murderer in South Africa – you get a flippin’ holiday! “Right, Janusz, you’ve served your time. Now get out and give the tourism industry a boost!”
But, hold on a minute, isn’t there a little technicality? Something about having to stay in the country for two years after being paroled? What happened, did they forget to mention that to Janusz? “Oops, sorry mate, just a teensy detail we left out. You know, like telling you the cuppa’s going cold.” Oh, South Africa, you’re a right card, aren’t you?
And the Polish consulate’s all, “We can’t say much. Personal safety, you know.” Yeah, hardly surprising, is it? Imagine the welcome committee back in Poland,’). “Come one, come all! Let’s welcome home the guy who shot a communist leader!”
Speaking of which, Chris Hani… a real icon, wasn’t he? Shot dead outside his own house, a right tragedy. And Waluś, the charming chap, had the nerve to say he didn’t want to shoot him in the back – prefers shooting him in the head! To be fair, he’s very concise. Gets to the point, doesn’t muck about with small talk.
Oh, and let’s not forget the “Pride and Modernity” association. Cheers lads, you’re such great patrons of the arts! “We’re celebrating Hitler’s birthday and oh yeah, we’re “collecting” for the bloke who killed a millionaire communist. Just a little side hustle.” Charming!
Look, I’m not saying he shouldn’t be released, but you can see why South Africa might have a few reservations. This isn’t bingo night at the local Bowls Club. Do they have an international welcoming committee when he gets off the plane? “Welcome to Poland, Janusz! Got your toiletries? Mind their pavements, they’re prone to potholes.”
Waluś. What a name. Sounds like a sneeze. “Achoo! Janusz Waluś!” Bless you, lad. Maybe next time try a different solution to your political disagreements, eh? Like a nice cup of tea and a chat?
Right, who’s for a biscuit?
What are the possible threats posed by Janusz Waluś’ return to Poland?
## Interview with Dr. Anya Petrova on Janusz Waluś’ Impending Return to Poland
**Host**: Dr. Petrova, thank you for joining us today to discuss the controversial case of Janusz Waluś. As our viewers likely know, he’s the Polish national who assassinated Chris Hani, a prominent anti-apartheid leader in South Africa, back in 1993. After serving nearly 30 years in prison, he’s now set to be deported to Poland. Can you shed some light on the situation?
**Dr. Petrova**: Certainly. Janusz Waluś’ case is complex and deeply unsettling. His crime sent shockwaves through South Africa, and his imminent return to Poland has stirred significant debate and concern. While he was granted conditional release in 2022, South African law restricts his departure until two years after that release. Now, that period is ending, paving the way for his return to his country of birth.
**Host**: You mentioned concerns. What are the primary issues being raised about his return?
**Dr. Petrova**: Well, there are multiple layers to this. Firstly, there’s the deep trauma his action inflicted on South Africa. He assassinated a beloved figure who was instrumental in the fight against apartheid, a period marked by brutal racial segregation. Many South Africans struggle to comprehend how someone convicted of such a heinous crime can be allowed to simply leave after serving his sentence.
**Host**: There’s also been talk about Waluś’s ties to extreme right-wing groups?
**Dr. Petrova**: Yes, that’s another crucial aspect. Waluś has been linked to far-right organizations, and reports suggest that even while imprisoned, he received financial support from groups with extremist ideologies. This raises serious concerns about his potential influence upon his return to Poland and whether he poses a threat to social cohesion.
**Host**: And what about the Polish government’s stance on this?
** Dr. Petrova**: The Polish government has been relatively tight-lipped, citing security concerns and legal procedures. However, their response underscores the complexities of this situation. On one hand, they have an obligation to accept their citizen back, but on the other, they also need to consider the potential impact his presence might have on societal harmony and safety.
**Host**: This is a truly intriguing case. It raises profound questions about justice, reconciliation, and the legacies of historical conflict. Dr. Petrova, thank you for providing your valuable insights on this complex and sensitive matter.
**Dr. Petrova**: My pleasure. I believe it’s important to have open and honest conversations about these issues to learn from the past and build a more just and equitable future.