A week of global events has highlighted the intersection of politics, technology, and human enhancement. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has set a trap for US President Donald Trump, framing Ukraine as part of a larger relationship between their nations.
Meanwhile, the US is grappling with worklessness, a crisis that Labour hopes to address through economic policies. Britain is also taking steps to combat unemployment, but some critics argue that these efforts risk undermining other Labour initiatives.
In Europe, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has arrested a candidate who could have beaten him in the next election. The European arms industry is ramping up production, and the Bundestag has approved a massive fiscal expansion.
The global economy is also feeling the effects of rising rents and housing shortages. Labour’s attempts to increase apprenticeships in Britain are being hindered by a lack of available programs.
In other parts of the world, North Korea’s hackers have been making headlines for their success in stealing cryptocurrency. Meanwhile, India is struggling with issues related to national identity and China has taken steps to strengthen its economic ties with Southeast Asia.
The US and Russia are also engaging in espionage battles, as Trump vies with international intelligence agencies. In business news, Trump’s tariffs may impact foreign investment in the US, while hospitals inflate the nation’s healthcare bill due to a lack of standardized documentation.
Finally, scientists are exploring new technologies that could help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and seals from drowning. Baby names and consumer trends are also revealing insights into societal values.
Source: https://www.economist.com/weeklyedition/2025-03-22