3 July 2017 In announcing his recent decision that America would withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord, President Trump rationalised this choice indicating he represented the citizens of Pittsburgh, not those of Paris. His remarks, however, suggest the President perceives Pittsburgh as a heavily polluting city in industrial decline, requiring the government’s protection from the … Continue reading President Trump: Lessons from Pittsburgh!
22 June 2017 The Conservative Party’s failure to gain a majority of Parliamentary seats in the June 8 snap election has shifted the landscape on key policy issues. In particular, Prime Minister Teresa May had asked the British electorate for a mandate to adopt an aggressive stance in upcoming Brexit negotiations, including walking away if … Continue reading UK: Brexit — The Clock is Ticking, Loudly
3 June 2017 The rift between the Trump administration and the other Group of 7 nations (also G20) became increasingly evident following the gathering in Taormina, Sicily. The new American president’s approach to global trade and climate change (among other key issues) represents a break from the prevailing international policy consensus. Reflecting growing frustration, German … Continue reading Mr Macron: Europe Needs You to Succeed
18 May 2017 From alleged involvement in US and European elections and military campaigns in the Middle East, Russia is rarely far from the headlines. The recent apparent agreement between Saudi Arabia and Russia to extend previously agreed oil production cuts until the end of 2017 not only may improve sentiment in energy markets, but … Continue reading Russia: Living With Cheaper Oil