From Dialogi, when will words become actions? A look at how homophobia and xenophobia, falsely parading as free speech, has entered the Slovenian political mainstream. From 2000, transition or transitions? "Incomplete regime change", "interrupted revolution", "geo-political paradigm shift". Accounts of the transition in eastern central Europe have tended to emphasize particular features to the exclusion of others. The new European century: Europe's long-term influence depends as much on its neighbours' human rights records as their supplies of gas and oil.
From NPQ, an interview with Richard Holbrooke on Iraq, the Balkans and Turkey. The lesson from Turkey: Islamist parties that follow the rules should be allowed to win elections. Turkey's corset of modernisation: Zafer Senocak on the legacy of Turkey's modernisation and the AKP's electoral victory. Deconstructing Islamist Participation: All Islamic parties are not equal – understanding the differences is essential for confronting democratically elected mullahs. God-Fearing People: Why are we so scared of offending Muslims? Christopher Hitchens wants to know.
From Prospect, Balochistan's rebels: Is the US providing covert support to Baloch rebels in Iran? If so, what does this say about its support for Musharraf in Pakistan? Some see him as a reformer and the West's ally, but others believe he's a dictator who secretly supports the Taliban. With the recent violence in Pakistan and elections on the way, General Pervez Musharraf finds himself under siege. Can Musharraf survive? Immanuel Wallerstein investigates. Dennis Ross on how a president should engage with despots. Selling Arms to the Saudis: Is Washington manipulating Riyadh, or is it the other way around? From LRB, The Rise of the Private Army: A review of Blackwater: The Rise of the World’s Most Powerful Mercenary Army by Jeremy Scahill.
An '08 free-for-all: For the first time in decades, the conventions may pick the candidates. Show-Off Nation: How our consumer obsession with originality and authenticity affects our taste in political candidates. Linda Hirshman.on how to use philosophy to help the Democrats. The Unions’ Man? John Edwards does more than talk the talk on workers’ but will he walk away with labor’s endorsement? Letters From the Past: Hillary Clinton's 40-year-old correspondence reveals nothing about her candidacy. Astrologers Agree: Obama faces Machiavellian enemy—but he may boast a potent "leadership chart" just like Bill Clinton. If you want to be President, you can't be afraid to step into a cartoon.
