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Sophie in ‘t Veld: Calling the European Council to Order

Dutch MEP Sophie in ‘t Veld believes that the freedom of every person to hold their own thoughts and opinions is a cornerstone of any democratic society. Her vision for Europe is based on the values of the Age of

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Caroline Criado-Perez: Ordeal and Success by Social Media

The rise of social media has transformed the way in which the world communicates. However, this can be a double-edged sword as freelance journalist, broadcaster, and campaigner Caroline Criado-Perez discovered. Ms Criado-Perez has been prolific user of social media and

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Ellen Ochoa: How Dreams Come True

Going into space is the stuff of dreams, fiction, or fantasy. Plans for space tourism may materialise in the future, but currently astronauts are a very select group numbering around 550. Growing up in California in the 1960s, schoolgirl Ellen

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Dianne Feinstein: Keeping the Eavesdroppers in Check

Even a US senator can face an uphill battle. Such it is with Dianne Feinstein, vice-chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee in charge of monitoring the entities that monitor global society. Hers is an unenviable position: Mrs Feinstein has to

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Rachida Dati: Brawn and Brains French Style

Daring stiletto heels and perfectly-fitting leather trousers: Rachida Dati does not lack self-confidence. In fact, her composure is faultless. A daughter not of landed nobility, but of an impoverished bricklayer from Morocco, Rachida Dati was the second-born in a family

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Alisher Usmanov: A Likeable Oligarch

Billionaire Alisher Usmanov is a Russian oligarch with a twist. Mostly known for his thirty percent stake in Arsenal FC, Mr Usmanov is also famous for the in-your-face style with which he habitually displays his vast personal wealth. Flying about

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Ma Yansong: The Modular Rhythms of Human Experience

“This guy should not be allowed to practice architecture.” Just one reaction, not atypical, to the biophilic designs of Chinese architect Ma Yansong whose work tends to evoke strong feelings. Seeking a novel – and radical – approach to the

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Tawakkol Karman: Nobody’s Pawn

The lady speaks her mind and would appreciate an opportunity to do so without getting harassed – or silenced – in the process. Tawakkol Karman, who shared the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize with two Liberian peace activists, is one of

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Playing with Fire: Greek Tragedy Reaches Climax

As the Greek tragedy nears its climax – now scheduled for next Thursday – European stock and bond markets took a hit with investors scurrying for safety and protagonists hurling verbal abuse across the stage. In Athens, Prime-Minister Alexis Tsipras

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Jeremy Howard: Make Way for the Smart Machine

Uber cabbies may have built their careers on modern technology, their job prospect is none too bright all the same. While old-school drivers wielding clubs pose the immediate threat to life, limb, and headlight; it is the robots who will

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