Gymnasiums are considered to be the most prestigious fields of study to be found among Czech secondary schools. However, as many an overcrowded gymnasium student will tell you, they also have their downsides, which are not talked about as much. What are they? And how would the students themselves change them?
In the Czech Republic, apprenticeships evoke conflicting passions. The “dumber” ones go to “apprenticeships”, lower wages in the future are fine because “they should have learned better”, on the other hand “golden Czech hands” still have their “golden bottom” in the craft and “in general there are actually few craftsmen”. Manual workers are often noticed on purpose, we don't address their conditions, why some apprentices go to factories, who can afford to work “on their own” or why the situation is worse in the peripheries.
Original Article in Czech language: Svědectví z učňáků. Čekají zlaté ručičky také zlaté časy?
by Young Reporters Olga Wawracz and Jiří Šimčík for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
I have a PhD. What's next? On the critical situation of the higher education sector. Šárka Lojdová writes a personal story about the hardships and successes of today's young scientists.
We present a reflection by a poet, theologian and lecturer from the project "Futuropolis: School of Emancipation" on the possibilities of imagining a more just world and why thinking about the future is a key skill for the coming epoch. In addition to her own experiences, Šipka is inspired by figures such as cultural historian Thomas Berry, anthropologist Jason Hickel and activist Satish Kumar, and last but not least by the question of an anonymous girl who is still finding her place in life.
“Strike, union, solidarity, collective agreement - all these are concepts that are against the spirit in an individualistic society. And why are we striking now? Because for a long time we believed the promises of governments that the situation would improve. Because we have become accustomed to finding some individual solution. But the October strike started much earlier than that. It was also helped by the government's empty proclamations about the Czech Republic being the centre of education and the fact that the government was doing nothing to improve our situation. The strike gradually made its way into our active vocabulary.”
Article in Czech language: Stávka není sprosté slovo aneb Reportáž ze zákulisí největší akademické stávky od roku 1989
by Monika Brenišínová, Nina Wanča for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
The collective of students and graduates of two art Slovak universities wrote a manual for current and future generations of students. They propose what the education system at art schools should look like, while also touching on the topics of finances or mental health.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Manuál kritického študentstva
by Collective of students and graduates of VŠVU and VŠMU for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
What is special about art education? The article discusses the teaching system, the peculiarity of the relations between students and teachers at art schools and the consequences that result from this. The respondents are art school teachers from all over Slovakia.
What motivates young Europeans to vote? Why do some engage actively in politics while others remain apathetic? These were the core questions discussed in this episode of the Perspective Talks podcast featuring European journalists and editors from different countries who gathered in EPER Radio’s studio one day after the European Parliament election took place. The podcast delved into the political engagement of young Europeans across their respective countries and the factors influencing their voting behavior.
Commentary on the results of the European elections. The author is thinking about what opportunities for cooperation the leader of the European Commission von der Leyen has. However, regardless of where she finds her majority, the future of the Union seems to be heading to the right at the moment.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Európska únia po voľbách: Všetky cesty vedú doprava
by Oliver Cipov for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
In a revealing interview with Bendra.lt journalist Rytas Staselis, Vladas Gaidys, head of the Public Opinion and Market Research Center, shares his perspective on the upcoming European Parliament elections. Contrary to the growing euroscepticism seen across Europe, Gaidys believes such political forces have limited prospects in Lithuania. He reflects on a past controversy over EU migrant quotas to underscore the complexity of EU discourse in Lithuania, where strong Europhilic tendencies persist despite occasional dissent. Gaidys's insights offer a nuanced view of why Lithuania remains steadfast in its support for the European Union.
After years of passivity, the European debate has arrived in Slovakia. A significantly higher voter turnout can be expected ahead of the fifth European elections in which the Slovakians are taking part. Eurosceptic forces could benefit.A comment by Peter Tkačenko.
The Republic of Moldova is striving to join the EU. However, pro-Kremlin politicians in the autonomous territory of Gagauzia are trying to prevent the country's EU integration with disinformation. They are receiving direct support from Moscow. There are Gagauz journalists who are fighting back, despite intimidation and hostility.
Original Article in German language: An der Frontlinie im Informationskrieg
by Young Reporter Yelizaveta Landenberger for JÁDU
(also available in Slovakian & Ukrainian) Read the Article at JÁDU
Election campaigns also take place online. In the highly polarised Slovakian society, political players are aware of how important it is to shape debates in the digital space. Information security expert Tomáš Kriššák describes which issues could be decisive in Slovakia's elections.
To what extent do anti-European political parties pose a threat to Ukraine and a united Europe, and what dangers could the elections to the European Parliament hold for Ukraine's European integration? We asked experts.
The elections to the EuropeanParliament could attract a record number of voters to thepolls, including the youngest age group. Who the first-time voters vote for is more likely to be influenced by theirparents thanpoliticians. The author of the reportage talked to youngpeople about their motivation to vote.
After 20 years of EU membership,Poland is considered one of the most Euro-enthusiastic societies in the community. Theproblem lies in the fact that this enthusiasm may be rather superficial, largely due topoliticians reducing it to financial benefits for thePolish economy over the years.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Voľby do EÚ:Prečo sa voličstvo Tuska môže cítiťpodvedené?
by Jakub Bodziony for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
Current surveys andprojections indicate the historical success ofpolitical groups outside the so-called of the grand coalition, formed by theparties of the European mainstream, in the upcoming elections to the EuropeanParliament. A successful result would confirm the trend of the Euroscepticparties, especially the right-wing ones, of the last two decades, during which they managed to double their support. Growing right-wing Euroscepticism cannot be reduced only to a rejection of the idea of European integration. This increase is a symptom ofpublic dissatisfaction with thepolitical and institutional development of the Union over thepast thirty years. Thepro-European spectrum lacks a strategy to reverse this trend.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Nastal čas začať brať euroskepticizmus vážne
by Oliver Cipov for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
Kapitál is preparing a series of articles about the European elections. In this commentary, the author maps the situation before the elections in the Czech Republic and compares it with Slovakia. Government parties in the Czech Republic are trying to mobilize in a campaign against the figure of Andrej Babiš. They sometimes help each other by comparing him with Putin or by referring to current events in Slovakia.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Kampaň pro eurovolby? Česko už žije volbami do sněmovny
by Vojtěch Petrů for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is moving towards greater spatial segregation. Every new urban development in the city project contributes to this. This conversation with sociologist Tadas Šarūnas is an invitation to reflect on what kind of social reality exists in the city of Vilnius and how it affects the state of Lithuania's democracy.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Būstas yra ne tik prekė, bet ir teisė. Apie Vilniaus kaitą su sociologu Tadu Šarūnu
by Young Reporter Austėja Pūraitė for NARA Read the Article at NARA
Animal architecture is a hugely interesting field that has often inspired human housing: from bird nests to beaver dams to sophisticated ant termites. Co-habitation also brings together species that would otherwise be extinct in the wild. Until the 20th century, even our ancestors used to live under the same roof as cattle. Today, wilder animals are learning to adapt as we exclude them from their former habitats.
The international organizing is extremely important for the leftists, but at the same time it is very demanding and resource-consuming. What are the conditions in which our struggles for spatial justice take shape?
Reportage from the meeting of the European action coalition for the right to housing and the city that took place in Paris in November 2023. As it is usually the case, it combined open program with internal discussions between the activists from the European urban movements fighting for the spatial justice.
Affordable, dignified, and adequate housing is particularly (but not exclusively) scarce in urban centers across Europe. The affected groups are primarily those with lower incomes, such as younger generations or individuals marginalized for various reasons. It quickly became apparent to us in the PERSPECTIVES Newsroom that the housing crisis requires our collective attention and innovative solutions. To showcase the many dimensions of the housing issue, we conducted a joint Europe-wide survey. We sought input from experts in politics, academia, the private sector, and citizen initiatives and asked: In your opinion, what specific measures should be taken to address the housing crisis in your country/city?
Article in German language: Die Wohnungskrise lösen - aber wie?
by PERSPECTIVES Newsroom
(also available in Slovakian, Czech & Ukrainian) Read the Article at Jádu
Listen to our new podcast “Rant” where we speak about issues that bother us! Ludmila Böhmová identifies the lack of regulation of rental housing as a major problem. As a result, people face a chain of short-term rentals, fear of insecurity and rent increases. This situation affects 30 % of the population, Böhmová says, but the political representation has not paid any attention to this problem until recently. Moreover, the narrative of rental housing is dominated by the owner's perspective. The initiative wants to change this.
In Klaipėda, Lithuania's third-largest city, young people are struggling to afford housing. Here, salaries are lower and house prices are almost the same as in the capital.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Didmiestyje jauniems žmonėms būstą įsigyti vis sunkiau. Išeitis – regionai
by Karolina Savickytė for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
The public debate about the housing crisis primarily addresses the situation of students and single mothers, we know the stories of seniors at risk of poverty due to rising rents and middle-class families who cannot afford a mortgage. But how does the housing crisis affect the Roma community and their everyday lives?
Original Article in Czech language: Jak bydlet v systému, který vás nenechá žít? O krizi bydlení z romské perspektivy
by Olga Wawracz and Jiří Šimčík for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
The various religious systems may promise people some justice after death, but no matter, our pale bodies remain the object of funeral services that prolong secular inequality. Interesting article about the “after-death” housing crisis.
Bernarda Babáková's literary text has a sharply realistic edge. The question of one's own room or space is complemented by questions of freedom, intimacy and the difficulties we have to face in our living. How is a (young) person today supposed to find a place to live?
There is an unavoidable sense of threat on Oxford Street in Manchester, UK. There, by the university campus, the pro-Palestinian protests happen almost daily, but the protesters worry how long they’ll be able to continue.
Original Photo story in English language: “We are still here”: Palestinian voices from Manchester
by Julija Stankevičiūtė for NARA Read the Article at NARA
A Lithuanian-Canadian writer reflects on his connection with a Lithuanian village he was visiting every summer as he was growing up. What remains when the village is slowly disappearing?
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Pievų oro įkvėpimu iš Monrealio grįžtu į Onuškį
by Young Reporter Jonas Baltakis for NARA Read the Article at NARA
Noura Al-Mawed and Michael Rantisi, students in Vilnius, are two of only a few Palestinians living in Lithuania. In this episode of NARA podcast, they share their hopes and grief, as the war in the Middle East continues.
Singer and songwriter Monique rose to fame as a winner of the Lithuanian X-Factor competition. In this personal and intimate interview, she reflects on what stardom and the power of TV do to young people, and how can one escape it.
Rafael Gimelstein, a son of Holocaust survivors in Lithuania, dares to hope for peace after the October 7th Hamas attack and Israel's retaliation in Gaza.
Original Article and Podcast in Lithuanian language: „Aš jaučiuosi brolis ir pusbrolis žmonių, kurie žuvo.“ Rafaelis Gimelsteinas apie karą Izraelyje ir Gazoje
by Karolis Vyšniauskas for NARA Read the Article and listen to the Podcast at NARA
After the occupation of Lithuania by the Soviet Union, the Lozoraičiai family lived and worked in Rome, at the Lithuanian Embassy, called “Villa Lituania”. The Soviets took this embassy from Lithuania. Unlike independence, “Villa Lituania” never returned to Lithuanian hands. This is a story about how Lithuanians deal with the wounds of colonialism today.
Original Essay in Lithuanian language: Kolonializmo permąstymai. Paskutinė okupuota Lietuvos teritorija
by Melita Vilkevičiūtė for NARA Read the Article at NARA
Tado Jankūnas and Arijaus Vasiliauskas wear rings on their right hand's finger and identical bracelets on their wrists with the letters A and T. These are not just beautiful accessories, but symbols of their commitment to walk the path of life together. “Love has no gender,” they say, sharing not only the beautiful moments of family life but also the painful experiences that have accompanied them since the beginning of their search for sexual identity and that still follow them today.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Meilė neturi lyties, bet įsimylėję vyrai viešumoje bijo susikibti rankomis
by Rasa Milerytė for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
Richard L. Kramar's essay on trans* poetics, along with a unique translation of poems by California-based artist and poet Arien Alana Reed, nominated for a Pushcart Prize.
Alaa Elsayed moved to Lithuania from Egypt 10 years ago. She now considers Lithuania her home and speaks excellent Lithuanian. But sometimes it is hard for her to understand why people are still sorted by nationality or religion - she has had to deal with unpleasant attacks and aggression many times.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Musulmonė Alaa: skaudu, kai žmonės rūšiuojami pagal tautybę ar religiją
by Aurelija Babinskienė for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
"Pickupers“, "grifters" and all sorts of Czech online gurus are sowing harmful ideas of masculinity and reaping millions of views and crowns. What to do as a young man?
Original Article in Czech language: Maskulinita na prodej. Kdo vydělává na českých mužích a co dnes stojí být pravý chlap?
by David Laufer for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
How to cope with society's idea of "proper masculinity"? How differently do masculinities weave themselves into the lives of three young people?
Original Article in Czech language: „Chci být Fight club týpek i David Bowie.“ Příběhy o vypořádávání se s vlastní maskulinitou
by David Laufer for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
For some, tattoos are a form of self-expression and an expression of aesthetic exploration. For others, it is a way of defacing one's own body, which may even "violate the rights of the person who sees it".
How long does it really take to learn Lithuanian when you don't have to use it actively at work, in your studies or at home? Find out about the difficulties Russian speakers face when learning the language in this video story.
One municipality, during the implementation of the project of reorganisation of territory boundaries, names and territories, planned to remove more than half of the settlements from the map. Community says: nobody discussed with us.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Pasipriešinus gyventojams, savivaldybė atsisakė sumanymo iš žemėlapio ištrinti pusę kaimų
by Aurelija Babinskienė and Audrius Lelkaitis for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
Slava, who used drugs, stole and went to prison, has radically changed his life: he has graduated as a social worker's assistant, he is working, and he obeys the law, even in the small details.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Slavos naujas gyvenimas: iš visiško dugno – į socialinį darbą
by Danielius MInkevičius for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
A report about the second generation of Vietnamese. Four respondents talk about their relationship with Vietnam, their families, raising children or their work. Do they feel accepted in Slovakia? What are they trying to teach their children?
Where is my home? And who am I? In Lê Thị Hoài's text on the Vietnamese immigrant experience, two voices are intertwined - one explains, the other speaks to itself. Both address the pressures imposed by majority and minority societies, both in the Czech Republic and in Southeast Asia. And above that, they discuss the impossibility of breaking out of the Western vision of the world.
Explore the Hidden Reality of PMDD: A Radio Story by Aistė Kačkytė. Discover the lesser-known yet severe condition affecting millions of women globally. PMDD isn't just your typical PMS; it brings extreme emotional states, even suicidal thoughts. Through insightful discussions with psychiatric and gynecological experts, we unveil the complexities of this misunderstood disorder. Delve into non-drug treatments and essential support resources. It's time to shed light on PMDD and prioritize women's health.
Article in Lithuanian language: Priešmenstruacinis disforinis sindromas(PMDS): sunki būsena, kurią moterys vis dar renkasi kentėti
by Young Reporter Aiste Kačkyte for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
In the public debate on sexual violence, the question of guilt and the appropriateness of punishment is often raised, and myths about survivors and perpetrators are debunked. But we lacked answers to the question of how to actually promote healing after a person experiences sexualized violence. So we asked members of the public, organisations working in this field and one therapist and artist what they thought was helpful after such an experience.
Original Article in Czech language: Anketa: Co pomáhá po sexuálním násilí? Mluvit o tom i oplakat ztrátu starého já
by Magdalena Šipka for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
In the final part of the series, we take a peek into the darkest sides of the mental health world on TikTok. How far can the algorithm take young users, and how does it relate to the growing number of psychiatric hospitalizations in the Czech Republic?
In the third part of the series, we explore how the logic of social networking has transformed the status of particular mental disorders. Why is it that psychiatric diagnoses have become other identity labels? And why are they so appealing to young users?
In the second part of the series, we will explore why certain psychiatric diagnoses have gained particular popularity among social platform users. How does the popularisation of particular disorders blur the boundaries between health and pathology? And how does over-pathologization relate to the language we use?
In a series of articles, we will try to peek beneath the surface of the publicly overlooked TikTok universe marked with the hashtag #mentalhealth. In the first part, you will learn how the whole phenomenon exposes systemic problems in healthcare and why the topic of mental health is particularly addictive to TikTok users.
A view through the barred windows of the psychiatric clinic in Prague-Bohnice, where time has its own speed and the temporary residents learn to recognise colour contours in the gloom of their own abysses. The author Bára Bažantová has returned to this place to revisit her own journey inside the rabbit hole.
An increasingly complex world shatters old landmarks and causes anxiety and decision paralysis. The way out may be to invent your own tactics to cope with the tide of the unknown - whether in FarmVille, tarot, or through other pleasures that are nothing to be ashamed.
Digital apps that substitute and complement mental health care can contribute to the development of good habits. But even ingeniously designed meditation techniques or affirmations cannot correct systemic deficiencies.
The journalist conducted an experiment - she tried to buy psychotropic drugs on the Internet. It turns out that this can be easily done.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Nelegalios psichotropinių vaistų prekybos užkulisiai – ir internete, ir vidury dienos miesto
by Rasa Milerytė for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
Listen to our new podcast “Rant” where we speak about issues that bother us! Microaggressions can be verbal, they can also have physical manifestations. “What happens very often is the changing of my name. Instead of asking how it is pronounced, one waves one's hand over it, saying it is not important. And then there are all sorts of inappropriate questions. They ask me where I'm from, and if I tell them I was born in Trebic, it's not enough. And they ask where I'm really from,” says Becky Livingstone aka Queen Jamaica about her experience with microaggressions.
Abstract. The Lithuanian Ministry of Health approved the procedure description for assistance to a person at risk of suicide, as well as the National Suicide Prevention Actions 2020-2024. plan. And individual municipalities have developed their own algorithms and plans adapted to local specifics. Yet, only 25 municipalities (from 60) have implemented such algorithms, but not all of them function effectively. Rimantas Misevičius, an expert in systematic suicide prevention, is convinced that delays in taking action is not justified.
Antidepressants reduce psychological pain but do not address its individual or societal causes - and may even distract from them. Side-effects or symptoms from withdrawal are also a problem. What to do?
Original Article in Czech language: Léčit ruku popálenou o plotnu paralenem“: duševní zdraví v době antidepresiv, nejednoznačných studií a individualismu
by Petra Dvořáková for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
Palestinian Omar B. has been living in Slovakia for more than ten years. In a very open interview with Anna Jacková he talks about what it's like to grow up in the occupied West Bank, when he managed to get rid of the fear he lived in, and why we shouldn't see the events in Gaza as something distant that doesn't concern us.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Už ako dieťa som cítil, že útlak, ktorý v Palestíne zažívame, by sa nemal diať
by Anna Jacková for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
The reportage about the Muslim community was created during the so-called Iftar - a joint dinner in the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. In it, the author talks to her hosts about migration policy, their life in Turkey and Slovakia. How to integrate into a new culture and at the same time not give up the one from which one comes?
Original Article in Slovakian language: Naša kultúra nie je len „slovenská a žiadna iná“
by Young Reporter Eva Štefanková for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
At the end of February this year, the sequel to Denis Villeneuve's Dune premiered in cinemas. Across both parts of the saga, many references to Arab and Islamic culture can be found. Which ones are they and how can we interpret them in the context of the present and the films themselves?
Against all (internal) odds, the writer Vesna Evans developed a deep affection for the Czech language. As a Serbo-Croatian-speaking ten-year-old, she fled Sarajevo for Prague with her parents in 1993. More than thirty years and countless moves later, she is three languages richer, each with its own magic. But which language does the tooth fairy speak?
In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, educational choices are evolving. As the stigma surrounding vocational schools wanes, a growing number of individuals with higher education backgrounds are opting for vocational training in Lithuania. Through diverse narratives, we explore the success stories of those who have chosen this path, showcasing the transformative power and inclusive nature of vocational education in today's society.
Article in Lithuanian language: Nesimokysi – keliausi į profkę“ – mitas! Profesinių mokyklų atgimimas Lietuvoje
by Young Reporter Aiste Kačkyte for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
In many countries, it is increasingly recognised that today's adolescents are under tremendous stress as a result of environmental pressures to be successful and to make clear and correct choices about their post-school path. We conducted an interview with the psychologist and career consultant Kristijonas Žičkus.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Karjeros konsultantas apie paauglių patiriamas psichologinio spaudimo problemas: tėvai protingėja, socialinės medijos aršėja
by Rytas Staselis for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
What are you going to be when you grow up? – we have often been asked or asked the question to others or ourselves. Perhaps mainly because – beyond curiosity – the profession, the job, the occupation is an inalienable and defining part of so-called adult life. There are many rituals and customs associated with it. A very important and inevitable change and transformation that we all go through.
“Overtime is supposed to be extra work and should not make up 50 % of your income,“ says Jan Přáda, a physician and chair of the ‚Young Doctors' Section‘, about the unbearable situation of male and female doctors in the health care system. Medical staff, he says, have been overworked and underpaid for a long time despite the demands of their work. In addition, due to the administrative burden, there is no time for more care and communication with patients.
How does the young poet cope with the pitfalls of the literary environment? The original short story by award-winning poet Alžběta Stančáková focuses on the theme of a young girl’s relationship with an older, successful man and the difficulty of later emancipating herself from his influence.
The European Parliament are about validating the fundamental ideas on which European integration was built: the will to integrate, mutual solidarity, the willingness to share some national sovereignty and overcoming the shadows of the past. On a continent where blood has flowed through history, no war should ever happen again. These elections are also an opportunity for citizens to indicate their level of satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the performance of their national governments.
Miroslaw Różanski, senator and former General Commander of the Armed Forces, in an interview with Tomasz Sawchuk, talks about the state of European security. In his view, there are actions that Europe can take in a 1-2 year timeframe to sufficiently prepare for the Russian threat.
Miroslaw Różanski, senator and former General Commander of the Armed Forces, in an interview with Tomasz Sawchuk, talks about the state of European security. In his view, there are actions that Europe can take in a 1-2 year timeframe to sufficiently prepare for the Russian threat.
Supervised drug use helps reduce the risks of problematic use of illegal substances, as long-term research shows. In localities where application rooms are created, crime and the number of people who use drugs in public are decreasing. We found out what practice looks like in Brno and Paris.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Najväčším problémom je pocit hanby
by Young Reporter Eva Štefanková for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
Nightclubs and bars are safe, especially for women. Many a girl can tell of being subjected to unwanted harassment, sexual assault or even being drugged against their will.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Kriminologė: seksualinė prievarta naktinio pasilinksminimo vietose – netoleruotina
by Aurelija Babinskienė, Rasa Milerytė, Audrius Lelkaitis for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
The communication bond between humans and animals was common in the oldest myths and legends. Today, there are also many intuitive contacts - for example, when a dog senses when it is time to be walked - that are very difficult to explain scientifically. Indeed, unlike quantum physics, psychology has no generally accepted theory to explain telepathy and related phenomena. Let's not be discouraged by esoteric explanations and let's familiarize ourselves with the current state of research on the fringes of the scientific mainstream.
Original Article in Czech language: Intuitivní komunikace se zvířaty – mýty a poznatky
by Barbora Biskupová for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
We tend to underestimate the abilities of the animals we exploit for our own needs. This manifests itself in the form of animal abuse. Cows are certainly not insensitive or rude, on the contrary they show a strong need for companionship and love for their young. Similarly, sheep do not join together in flocks to follow someone blindly, but for reasons of personal self-preservation. Chickens have the ability to think logically, pigs can lie or operate a joystick.
Sustainability is cool, but how do you implement it in the book industry? Thoughts from book studies expert Anna Štičková on various ecological approaches in the publishing industry, the breakneck carousel of deadlines and the disparity between excessive workloads and unfair fees.
It is said that capitalism is more likely to appropriate and adapt any criticism to its own image. Rather than fight it, it commodifies it. But does this also apply to the degrowth, which denies the very DNA of global capitalism? Doesn't the radicalism of this vision lie precisely in the fact that it promises us something that no political or economic marketing can afford to promote? That he promises us "less"? While in this less, there is also hidden less work, less pollution, less disease, less senseless waste of resources, food and energy. However, degrowth is not just a utopian idea, it is already a real, internationally functioning movement. But can this movement overcome its shadow of radical criticism and mobilize the wider public around a positive vision of the future?
Original Article in Slovakian language: Nebáť sa nerásť
by Laura Kovácsová, Eva Fraňková, Daniel Costa Jařab for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
Her award-winning debut novel, The Doloriad, was published in London two years ago and centres its post-apocalyptic setting around a Vineyard hospital. The author of the novel, Missouri Williams, studied and lived for a long time in Prague. Thanks to Veronika Korjagina we present an excerpt in Czech translation.
Veronika Korjagina also interviewed the author Missouri Williams and together they walked with a camera around the area that was a source of literary inspiration for one of them and home for the other. An Interview about suffering and its meaning, temporality, and the desire for order in her debut novel, The Doloriad (Dead Ink UK & FSG USA, 2022), set in the near future after a catastrophe wipes human civilization from the face of the earth.
People are increasingly turning to sustainability. Sustainable business, sustainable farming, sustainable lifestyles are increasingly being discussed. Young people are often inspired when sustainability ideas are presented in a non-boring way.
It is indisputable that for several decades humanity persistently ignored all scientific forecasts that predicted a serious existential threat to human civilization as a result of its unlimited growth, which disrupts the planetary ecological system. Is there such a thing as “sustainable” growth? And what is the relationship between economic growth and the environment and global climate change?
The green mantle of our cities is shrinking, paying tribute to various construction and reconstruction projects. Planting young plants in place of mature trees does little to save the situation.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Žaliasis Lietuvos miestų rūbas įstrigo trinkelėse?
by Baguolė Žalnieriūnaitė and Danielius Minkevičius for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
A couple of years ago, a young family from Australia started creating an organic farm in a distant village. They say they found the meaning of life here.
On May 16, 2024, it was exactly two years since Russia illegally held hundreds of Ukrainian prisoners of war who were defending the city of Mariupol, a city of half a million, in violation of security commitments made to the Ukrainian side. Among them are soldiers of the then Azov regiment, members of the marine corps, soldiers of the National Guard of Ukraine, border guards, and even soldiers performing basic military service.
There are Lithuanians who regularly transport humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Last June, NARA junior reporter joined one of these crews: the Lithuanian Rifle Union Ukraine Support Group (PUG). This is her diary.
Original Essay in Lithuanian language: Išvažiuoti, kad sugrįžtum. Kelyje į Ukrainą su Lietuvos humanitarinės pagalbos misija
by Young Reporter Marie-Line Deleye for NARA Read the Article at NARA
In the weeks following the large-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, the village of Kamianka, near Izum, was occupied and almost completely destroyed. A visit to Kamianka revealed local farmers striving to rebuild their lives after the occupation.
Original Photo story in Lithuanian language: Tušti kaimai, sudeginti ūkiai, užminuoti laukai. Kaip atkurti gyvenimą frontui atslūgus?
by Denis Vėjas for NARA Read the Article at NARA
At the end of January, Natalia, a native of Crimea, packed two suitcases, her eight-year-old son Valery and left her native Feodosia for Kiev. She says that staying in occupied Crimea became not only mentally challenging, but also dangerous. In addition, her son's father, also a native of Crimea, is currently in mainland Ukraine, serving in the ranks of the Ukrainian armed forces, which in Crimea is considered not only "treason" but also discrediting the Russian army. Where does Crimea stand today?
In recent years, Vilnius has become a safe haven for people from different countries fleeing war, persecution or simply wanting to start a new life in the EU. This episode of NARA podcast discusses what it means to be a foreigner in Vilnius today as the shadow of Russia's war in Ukraine transforms the city once again.
Gediminas Grina, a Lithuanian military reserve colonel, former employee of the Second Operational Services Department, and former director of the State Security Department, says that NATO country intelligence observed Russia's preparations to use military force against Georgia and Ukraine, but politicians who heard the warnings did not believe them. He is also skeptical about Lithuanian politicians' understanding of what actions should be taken in the face of a war threat.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Lietuvos kariuomenės atsargos pulkininkas abejoja, ar Lietuva pasimokė iš dvejus metus vykstančio karo Ukrainoje pamokų
by Rytas Staselis for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
Reportage from Ukraine about about a man who survived four weeks of the Russian occupation of Buča. Why did he return there and what consequences does he have to deal with? They also talked with our reporter about where a person's tendencies towards violence come from.
Even endless shelling will not force some Ukrainians to leave their homes. How do they live in the so-called death zones after the destruction of all infrastructure? Will they see the end of their lives or the end of the war sooner? Exclusive report from Kiev reporter Galyna Ostapovets.
Article translated into Czech language: Jak Rusko každý den pustoší ukrajinské pohraničí
Original Article in Ukrainian by Galyna Ostapovets for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
The Ukrainian poet Maksym Kryvtsov, codenamed „Dali“, and his red-haired front cat, who accompanied him in the last moments of his life, were killed by a Russian attack on 7 January. An obituary by the poet Julia Stakhivska.
The leading Ukrainian ecologist Maksym Soroka, who, among other things, deals with the environmental consequences of the Russian invasion, believes that Russia has violated all 17 points of the Sustainable Development Goals. That agenda and plan for achieving a better shared future was adopted by all 193 UN members in 2015. The ecologist believes that the violation of all the points of the Convention as a result of Russian aggression in Ukraine is leading to the ceasing of life in that territory.
Ukrainians can currently work in Lithuania without any restrictions, but in spring, two years after the war, the State Language Inspectorate plans to start penalising employers if their employees do not speak the language at the level required for the job. However, many Ukrainians are only now starting to learn the language.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Lietuvoje besikuriantys ukrainiečiai: baiminamės, kad netrukus galime netekti darbo
by Aurelija Babinskienė for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
Journalist and former diplomat in Belarus, Witold Jurasz discusses the tensions caused by the Ukrainian grain embargo in the Polish and European context. He analyses Ukraine's relations with Poland, Germany and Lithuania, as well as Ukraine's potential future in European structures.
Colonel Piotr Lewandowski provides a report from the frontline and discusses Ukraine's biggest problems. In the latest episode, our guest analyses the progress of Ukrainian army's counter-offensive. He talks through the current state of the supply of weapons from the West to Ukraine and provides predictions on possible outcomes of the current phase of the war.
After fleeing from the Russian aggressor, many Ukrainian children had to get used to a new apartment, a new school class, new friendships, and a new language. Reporter Zuzana Límová describes how children from Ukraine get used to Slovak schools and why emotional support is essential in this case.
When meeting with young Catholics in St. Petersburg, Pope Francis praised Russia’s imperial history – the same history that the Kremlin uses to justify Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Gražina Bielousova, a Lithuanian scholar and a former priest, analyses how the pope's upbringing in Argentina might have shaped his worldview toward Russia and Ukraine.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Kodėl popiežius nusišneka apie Ukrainą
by Gražina Bielousova for NARA Read the Article at NARA
In Ukraine, the collective cinematic experience will not be missed in the summer of 2023. "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer" have already attracted more than half a million people to the cinemas. The Ukrainian reception of the pink and black "Barbenheimer" is a very special one in the context of war.
More than 100.000 volunteers reportedly joined the Ukrainian armed forces during the first year of the war. How many of them died in battle remains unknown. Andrej was one of them. For his widow Anna, Andrej is a hero.
Article in German language: Wir machen Witze, damit wir nicht weinen müssen
by Lieselotte Hasselhoff for JÁDU
(also available in Czech & Ukrainian) Read the Article at Jádu
Dozens of Ukrainian zoos, animal shelters and nature reserves have come under attack. In just one year, Russia turned the Feldman Ecopark in Kharkiv into an ecocidal wasteland.
Article in German language: Vor Angst beißen Affen sich die Schwänze ab
by Anna Lakyza for JÁDU
(also available in Czech & Ukrainian) Read the Article at Jádu
According to the human rights organization Viasna, now there are around 1,385 political prisoners in Belarus. But there was a time when Belarus had only one political prisoner. Today he lives in Vilnius and is developing a plan to take Lukashenko to The Hague.
Original Feature story in Lithuanian language: Trys Lukašenkos kadencijos stebint iš už grotų
by Denis Vėjas for NARA Read the Article at NARA
The digital world brings new challenges and phenomena to which law and jurisprudence must respond in some way. In this podcast, we seek to better understand the workings of law and its science through deep fake and fake news.
Original Podcast & Article in Hungarian language: Médiakutató Podcast: A deepfake és dezinformáció jogi kérdései
by Tamás Jamriskó for EPER Rádió Read the Article at EPER Rádió
An interview with the coordinators of the political monitoring network „Žinau, ką renku“ (“Learn before You Vote”). Before the European Parliament elections, the initiative's volunteers organized 22 debates with candidates in various Lithuanian cities. The conversation focuses on trends in EP elections and the importance of taking an interest in what is happening in politics.
Original Podcast interview in Lithuanian language: Europos Parlamento rinkimai 2x greičiu: susitikimas su „Žinau, ką renku“ debatų maratono koordinatorėmis
by Karolis Vyšniauskas for NARA Read the Article at NARA
An interview with an expert living in Tbilisi about the protests against the Foreign Agents law, which the Georgian parliament accepted. The focus of the interview is to try to understand why Georgia (Sakartvelo) is turning away from the EU and towards Russia.
Original Interview and photo essay in Lithuanian language: Kodėl kartveliška svajonė pasuko link Rusijos
by Sigita Vegytė for NARA Read the Article at NARA
Ten women are murdered every day in Mexico. Violence against them is one of the most pressing problems in a country that is often associated with machismo. But now Mexican men and women are apparently going to elect a woman to lead them. What will that bring?
An interview with a leading political science professor of Vilnius University before Lithuania's presidential elections. The podcast conversationfocuses on the rising polarisation of the voters in Lithuania.
I'm not an activist. That label does not belong to me in any way. I'm not even sure I'd be brave if push came to shove. Maybe I'd be overwhelmed with anxiety. But the moment my anxiety is overwhelmed by a completely different fear, namely the fear of losing control of my body, I weigh my options and I go.
The question was simple: What are two biggest threats to independent journalism in your country? What do you consider the most important for maintaining the independence of journalism? The contemporary media scene in Europe.
Original Article in Czech language: Jaké jsou hrozby pro nezávislou žurnalistiku?
Video in English and Czech language included
by Alena Julie Novotná for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
The toughest election campaign in Poland since 1989 is over, and Law and Justice (PiS) is about to lose power, with the entire state apparatus deployed on the front line with a single task: to fight the opposition. Can the next government resist the temptation to use the tools that the PiS party has created for it?
The war between Israel and Hamas has become one of the bloodiest for journalists. Read our tnterview with Khaled Drareni, Reporters Without Borders' representative for North Africa, who talks about the situation of journalists during the war.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: „Reporteriai be sienų“: šokiruoja, kad kare žurnalistai tampa taikiniais
by Aurelija Babinskienė for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
Is it true that the spectre of the far right is continuing its triumphal march across Europe? An interview with Dr. Mažvydas Jastramskis, Associate Professor at the Institute of International Relations and Political Science, Vilnius University, sheds light on the question.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: M. Jastramskis: „Kraštutinės dešinės atstovas iš Vakarų Europos su kolega iš Vidurio ir Rytų Europos nerastų bendros kalbos“
by Rytas Staselis for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
Not only in Slovakia, many people sympathize with extremist political parties. Tomáš Hučko spent several days watching a music-discussion project at schools that brought the tragedy of the Holocaust closer to young students. The Holocaust is a trauma that we still cannot talk about, but something will have to be done about it. Every four years, we save Slovakia in elections from extremists and fascists.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Trieda plná feministiek, Gabčík ako fašista. Čo som zistil na ceste po slovenských stredných školách
by Tomáš Hučko for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
The media situation and criminal law in Hungary has undergone significant changes in recent times. In June 2023, an amendment to the law decriminalizing defamation and libel in the media came into force. Why SLAPP suits against various media companies are problematic, and how one defamation case can completely exhaust a company’s budget. Should defamation be punishable and how does the EU currently deal with this type of lawsuit? We asked Beáta Bodrogi, lawyer and media lawyer, and Daniel Szalay, editor-in-chief of Media1, which is in the middle of a series of SLAPP trials.
Original Article in Hungarian language: Médiahelyzet Magyarországon – #02 Rágalmazási perek és következményeik a médiajogban – beszélgetés Bodrogi Beával és Szalay Dániellel
by Tamás Jamriskó for EPER Radio Read the Article at EPER Radio
In Hungary, the media has undergone countless transformations and changes until it reached its current form, but this process has not stopped. In this episode of Első Pesti Egyetemi Rádió we invited Attila Bátorfy, a professor of the media faculty at ELTE, who talked about the media wars, the role of public service media, and the past, present and future of media itself. We also get an insight into how the listeners’ preferences change the contents of media and get a glimpse of what the future holds concerning the growing use of AI.
Original Article in Hungarian language: Médiahelyzet Magyarországon – #01 Médiaháborúk és a média konfliktusai
by Tamás Jamriskó for EPER Radio Read the Article at EPER Radio
Munich, Halle, Hanau - three right-wing extremist attacks. Three times they were attributed to a "lone perpetrator". In his documentary film trilogy with this title (German: "Einzeltäter"), Julian Vogel tells us why these were not individual acts and why we should listen to the bereaved families of those murdered.
A report by the well-known reporter Václav Lang from Slovakia on the eve of the elections. How will the election results affect the political direction of Europe? What do young Slovaks expect from the election results?
How does poetry relate to the symbols of the time? Gabriel provocatively recognizes a fundamental transformation of poetics already in the work of the middle and older generations and he approaches them through more general themes such as humanity, the (post)apocalyptic approach to time, the crisis of pathos, the return to humour or the phenomenon of a new sensibility.
