Harbingers’ Magazine

opinion

How ‘nosy’ Armenians made my trip unforgettable

Armenians take pride in being ‘nosy’ – and that’s a good thing. Let me explain why. This eagerness to engage created a welcoming atmosphere making an unknown place less daunting

15 year-old Charlotte Wejchert on her contrasting experiences in Yerevan and New York City

opinion

It was painful and horrible - why my acne made me feel different from others

My struggles with acne started from the age of 11 and for years I felt different from others. My journey taught me a lot, most importantly that it is only temporary

15 year-old Eliza Tomaszewska shares her struggles with acne and what others can learn from her journey

opinion

Issues professional athletes face from the perspective of a young figure skater

Figure skating is my life and biggest passion, but I almost quit because of the pressures I had to deal with as a young athlete. Many people I have come across share similar feelings about the highs and lows of figure skating. But they wouldn’t give it up for the world

15 year-old Helena Ruszkowska takes us behind the scenes in the world of ice-skating competitions and the pressures young athletes face

opinion

The US presidential debate left me disappointed, not inspired

Following the presidential debate, many Americans ended the night feeling like the global laughing stock of politics. Our politicians were too busy name-calling and slandering each other to reassure any of us voters that our country has a bright future ahead

17 year-old Emily Dorman assesses the unsatisfactory Trump and Biden election debate on 27 June

society

Why corporal punishment is still common in Sri Lankan schools

Corporal punishment of children as a means of discipline has been prohibited in Sri Lanka, but is still regularly used in schools, with the excuse that it is part of the country’s culture

15 year-old Hesandi explores the status of corporal punishment in Sri Lankan schools

science

How the world’s first pig-kidney transplant operation could save lives

Doctors in Massachusetts have changed the face of medicine, after carrying out the world’s first kidney transplant operation using an organ from a pig. Although this procedure shows spectacular progress and promises to open a new range of treatments for patients in the future, critics have commented on ethical concerns

17 year-old Ayanna Rohil explains the significance of a pioneering transplant operation in the US

culture

From jail to fame: Who is the ‘infamous’ Gypsy Rose Blanchard?

Gypsy Rose Blanchard is known for the killing of her mother Clauddine “Dee Dee” Blanchard due to alleged abuse over 19 years. Now after serving eight and a half years in prison, she has become ‘infamous’ during her time behind bars following high public interest in her story

15 year-old Eliza Tomaszewska reports on the life of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who has gained an internet following after being released from prison

science

What is mpox and why is it an ‘international public health emergency’?

The viral infection, which is transmitted through close contact and causes symptoms including chills, body aches and lesions, spread rapidly from the Democratic Republic of Congo to nearby countries

15 year-old Helena Ruskowska reports on recent updates on the mpox virus and the advice issued by health experts

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human rights

A must-read: White Torture shares the agony of women prisoners in Iran

I urge you to pick up this book, to stand with Narges Mohammadi, who has risked so much to publish these testimonies, and the courageous women who have shared memories of their darkest days

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva reviews Narges Mohammadi’s book on women prisoners in Iran

opinion

The highs and lows of attending an international school in Tanzania

Attending an international school in Tanzania has opened up a world of opportunities that has changed my life for the better. But this journey has also been challenging

15 year-old Lidya Gasper shares her experience of attending a private international school in Tanzania

society

How Armenian teens have adjusted to a new life, a year after fleeing home

Almost one year ago, in September 2023, the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh, home to a significant Armenian population, fell under Azerbaijani control, prompting a mass exodus of more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians to Armenia. Five refugee girls now living in Yerevan share what has the past year been like

15 year-old Charlotte Wejchert interviews five refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh, now living in Yerevan

opinion

What a female president means for Mexico and the world

Sheinbaum’s presidency marks an important milestone in the history of Mexico. Up until this point, Mexico was a country run by men, known for its persistently high levels of violence, especially against women

17 year-old Maria Mitko explores the potential impact of Claudia Sheinbaum’s groundbreaking election win

society

How teens can help shape the political future of their countries

Despite the fact that you may be too young to cast your vote, you can still uplift issues that matter to you. By informing your communities, families, and friends about elections and political events dear to your heart you are already able to make a difference

15 year-old Lola Kadas shares how young people can get involved in political discourse

opinion

Traditional Kyrgyz weddings are unnecessary and expensive

Weddings are a huge deal in Kyrgyzstan – a celebration of rich cultural traditions and rituals. And while it is an event that is worthy of being proclaimed, the costs of holding one are unjustifiable

18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova shares how people can still honour traditions without the high price tag

society

Chili, half-smokes, and history: Interviews in DC’s greatest landmark

Before even stepping into Ben’s Chili Bowl, there is the sense of walking into history. More than just a culinary landmark, though, Ben’s is a testament to the perseverance and community of the District of Columbia

17 year-old Justin Sau visits Ben’s Chili Bowl, a cultural staple in US civil rights history

society

Armenia’s annual wine festival features producers from Artsakh

The festival acts as an important space to represent Artsakhian culture and significance. Among the wine-making producers were companies originating from the disputed region of Artsakh

17 year-old Laura Danielyan reports on Yerevan’s annual Wine Days festival

society

How can America learn from Netflix’s Sex Education?

The show’s success and relevance is not just due to its own quality, it’s also because American sex education is not as effective as it should be. A lack of comprehensive sex education doesn’t mean a more or less conservative new generation — it means a less educated one

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil explores the problems with sex education programs in the US

society

Capitalism and football – How Gen Z could influence high value deals

With a growing emphasis on environmental awareness and eco-friendly practices, we may see clubs align with sponsors focusing on green initiatives, reflecting the socially responsible spirit of modern sports

17 year-old Elias Malmqvist on how clubs and companies go hand-in-hand when it comes to business, and how youngsters can get involved

opinion

Should poaching and hunting be illegal?

Hunting is one of the oldest causes of animal extinction and endangerment. The problem is that prohibition could be financially disadvantageous – because many countries rely on the tourism and fashion industries, in which animals play an important part

15 year-old Lisindi Liyanage from Sri Lanka examines the morality and necessity of killing animals

science

Space tourism – Is it just a dream or reality?

In our current time, concepts that were formerly exclusive to science fiction are starting to become reality as the topic of space travel is being explored by entrepreneurs such as Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson

18 year-old Katarzyna Rynkiewicz on whether trips to the great unknown in our solar system could be part of our regular holiday destinations

society

How to start and keep a healthy diet without feeling overwhelmed

A balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients, enhances immune defence and promotes overall vitality. However, contemporary diets trends increasingly lean towards fast foods and processed items which has resulted in a surge of health issues

15 year-old Oliver Stachowiak examines the harms of added sugars offering steps for a balanced diet without feeling deprived

women's desk

The rise of female entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan

The rise of female entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan marks an important change in the country’s development. As these women continue to break barriers and redefine societal roles, they create a legacy of empowerment and growth

18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova showcases stories of the dynamic women powering a new world in the heart of Bishkek

women's desk

How five overlooked female inventors changed our lives for the better

Women have made a significant impact on the world for hundreds of years. Their inventions may be widely known or used, from navigating us across the globe to saving time and lives. But do we know the faces of those behind them?

17-year-old Maria Mitko shares the stories of the women behind some of our world’s inventions that have helped change our lives for the better

society

Ten free self-care tips for Gen Z

In our busy academic and social lives, self-care is essential. It’s not just about treating yourself, it’s about staying healthy and balanced. Thankfully, self-care doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag

13 year-old Lilly Stachowiak explains the importance of self-care and shares examples for Gen Z

opinion

Being young is my superpower - I’ve learnt not to doubt myself

The next time you find yourself doubting your place among those older than you, why not ask yourself: isn’t it time to embrace your unique strengths and show the world what the youngest among us can truly achieve?

13 year-old Lilly Stachowiak reflects on internalised ageism

opinion

Schools should not start earlier than 9: Here is why

The idea of starting before 9 am might be justified from a traffic and energy savings perspective, but the benefits for the health and development of students far outweigh any potential disadvantages

15 year-old Olivier Stachowiak explains the correlation between early school start times and students’ well-being

opinion

Does academic pressure prevent athletic passion?

Academics has long been deemed the most important factor in our development and future. We cannot let academic pressures prevent athletic passion for any longer. How was it possible that we students who played on the sport teams were faced with great pressure to excel academically before anything else

17 year-old Elias dives into how academic pressure affects young athletic dreams

politics

Certainly not ‘fell out of a coconut tree.’ Who is Kamala Harris – and could she defeat Trump?

Although polls indicate that Trump is leading in the race – and Harris herself warns that the Democrats are the “underdog” – there are signs that things could turn in her favour, offering the current vice president a chance to become the first female US president.

15 year-old Nell Dethloff profiles VP Kamala Harris

opinion

Social media and digital detoxing

A planned break from digital devices or a “digital detox”, has become more crucial for supporting our mental health and wellbeing. Unplugging from the internet will offer numerous benefits like improving our ability to concentrate and think clearly

18 year-old Katarzyna opines on the dangers of social media overconsumption

opinion

Microtrends are the death of individuality – we should be wary of overconsumption

Microtrends are not subcultures. Rather than building a timeless closet, consisting of a foundation customisable to fit your style, people often opt for trending items. While this is great for businesses, microtrend consumerism is having a profound impact on our environment and individuality

17 year-old Maria Mitko hits out at the overconsumption of microtrends that ‘kills individuality’ across the world

society

Calls to address fast food consumption amid increasing obesity concerns

As obesity is rising globally, organisations such as the World Obesity Federation and Cancer Research UK have called for more to be done to address the issue. The widespread appeal of fast food is said to be particularly appealing to young people with chains specifically targeting children through advertisements

15 year-old Olivier Stachowiak reports on fast food consumption and how advertising is being blamed for growing obesity levels in children and young people

opinion

Revisiting Amy Winehouse: Unpacking the biopic Back to Black

Back to Black’s vivid portrayal of Amy Winehouse has reignited the debate over the ethics of biographical filmmaking, while challenging audiences to confront the complexities of fame, addiction, and artistic brilliance. In death as in life, Amy defies easy categorization, leaving an untouchable mark on music and memory alike

15 year-old Sofia Vorobei asks if the recent movie does justice to the iconic singer Amy Winehouse

science

Forgotten herstory: five female scientists who changed the world

When I’m looking through my textbooks, I often see prominent male scientists described as ‘the father of.’ The same doesn’t go for women involved in discoveries, who are often hidden behind their male counterparts

17 year-old Ananya Prasanna shines a light on women in maths, palaeontology, chemistry and biology

society

An interview with Kevin Tien: How a chef is countering hate with food-focused love

From his humble beginnings of cooking and experimenting with grilled cheese sandwiches and cooking out of necessity for his siblings, Tien has now inspired others to cook for a greater purpose and to support an important cause

17 year-old Christian Yeung in conversation with renowned chef Kevin Tien

politics

Who is Labour’s Rachel Reeves and what are her plans for the UK economy?

Following Labour’s landslide victory in the UK general election of July 4, Rachel Reeves has become Britain’s chancellor of the exchequer – the first woman in the role since it was created 800 years ago

17-year-old Camilla Savelieva profiles the UK’s first female chancellor of the exchequer

opinion

Against all odds: Afghan girls want to learn

The message is simple. Education for children is a fundamental right, and our gender should make no difference. Afghan girls are the strongest girls. Just let them improve and study. Allow them back into school

17 year-old Zohra shares the unwavering determination of Afghan girls to pursue their education

society

Olympic horse ‘abuse’ allegations: Animal welfare organisations demand change

Controversy surrounding horse treatment at the Paris 2024 Olympics has raised animal-welfare concerns in equestrian sports, leading to calls for urgent reforms

18-year-old Katarzyna Rynkiewicz reports on recent calls to address animal ‘abuse’ following animal welfare concerns at the 2024 Paris Olympics

society

Balancing heritage and modernity: Westgate, Oxford

Nestled in the heart of Oxford, is the Westgate shopping centre that attempts to blend in with the historical architecture of its neighbourhood. Despite Landsec, Westgate’s builder company, claiming that the mall has ‘been seamlessly woven into the heart of the centre’, young shoppers seemed to disagree

13 year-old Lilly Stachowiak speaks with locals on the importance of architectural aesthetics

society

Oxfordians concerned with the rise of ‘horrific’ UK stabbings

Oxford locals consider the rise of stabbings in the UK “unsettling” and “horrific” in light of the recent Southport attack, near Liverpool, in which three young children were killed. The incident reflects a larger problem, with knifes and sharp object offences back on the rise in England and Wales

17 year-old Elias Malmqvist on the rise of stabbings in the UK in light of Southport attack

science

Oxford University’s new quantum hub will connect ‘brilliant ideas and practical solutions’

QCI3 will be one of the five hubs that the UK Government has launched to develop quantum technologies and “transform sectors like healthcare and security.” The market for quantum computing is a rapidly growing area in the UK, and it’s estimated to be worth $1.3tn by 2035

18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova on the launch of quantum hubs in the UK enhancing students’ learning experience

climate

The hottest day of the year: a heatwave is coming

July 30, was recorded as the hottest day of the year in the UK, with the temperature reaching 32°C in London. The next few days, forecasted to be around the same temperatures, are expected to bring an official heatwave. But for those in Oxford, where the temperature reached 30°C, people have very different approaches to the hot weather

17 year-old Maria Mitko reports on the recent bout of extreme heat in Oxford, UK

politics

Joe Biden quits the presidential race, endorses Kamala Harris

Four months before the election and almost a month after a disappointing performance during a debate, President Joe Biden withdrew from the race for the second term in the White House and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.

17 year-old Jefferson He reports on the unprecedented turn in American politics

politics

Trump rallies thousands in Michigan: ‘We will build American by American, we will hire American’

Harbingers’ Magazine spoke to Trump’s supporters – and critics – at MAGA’s first rally after the assassination attempt.

17 year-old Jefferson He and 15 year-old Nell Dethloff report from Grand Rapids, Michigan

politics

Trump and Vance kept silent on abortion at RNC, in effort to secure more women’s votes

Donald Trump and JD Vance did not mention reproductive rights even once during their acceptance speeches at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

15 year-old Nell Dethloff on the political strategy behind top Republicans’ silence on abortion

politics

‘Working-class boy born far from the halls of power’ Who is JD Vance, the Republicans’ VP candidate?

Once a staunch critic of former president Donald Trump, Ohio senator James David Vance is now his running mate in the presidential race.

17 year-old Jefferson He profiles Trump’s pick for vice president

politics

Trump dominates political landscape at Republican convention overshadowed by assassination attempt

Two days after an assassination attempt on Donald J. Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, the ex-president took the stage at the National Republican Convention.

17 year-old Jefferson He reports on key events from the National Republican Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

women's desk

The ‘pink tax’ – another hidden weapon in the oppression of women

The so-called ‘pink tax’ may not be an actual tax, but it is an audacious and harmful way for businesses to make profit at the expense of women through misogynistic marketing schemes

16 year-old Camilla Savalieva explains what the ‘pink tax’ is and its consequences for women

society

What are the reasons for the proposed US ban on TikTok?

Despite the widespread use of the app, the safety and security of TikTok has been contested and recently questioned by the US government. Concerns have also been raised about the economic and cultural impacts of a potential ban since 46% of adults believe the ban challenges the idea of free speech

17 year-old Emily Dorman and 16 year-old Anna Wilkin co-explain the US government plan to ban TikTok

society

Reasons to visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum in Nepal

Narayanhiti Palace was turned into a museum after the monarchy was overthrown in Nepal and the country was declared a federal democratic republic. It was designed for kings, but now it is open to everyone. We found six interesting things about the palace that everyone must know

Students aged 11–18 from the OXSFJ Nepal Project share their experiences after a recent visit to this royal museum

international affairs

Navigating the US-China rivalry: Trump and Biden’s divergent strategies in the Asia-Pacific region

The debates between candidates Joe Biden and Donald Trump have frequently touched on their respective approaches to managing rivalry with China. This focus underscores the increasing prominence of US-China relations in American political and strategic thinking

19 year-old Maciej Cebula compares Trump’s and Biden’s strategies on US-China relations, focusing on trade, military, technology, and Asia-Pacific diplomacy

climate

How the US election could impact tackling climate change

As US President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump race for the White House, the results of the November 5 election will strongly impact the global response to climate change

17 year-old Jefferson He analyses the link between the White House and greenhouse gas emissions

politics

Biden mixes up his words at the NATO Summit

Biden suffered multiple word mistakes while giving a press conference alongside the closing day of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) summit in Washington, furthering the question as to whether he is fit for another four years as US President

16 year-old Noah Saphier reports on day three of the NATO Summit

politics

Trump distances himself from Project 2025 amid Democratic backlash

Following increased focus of President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign on the program, the Republican candidate has refuted claims linking him to the project in a post on Truth Social

19 year-old Maciej Cebula reports on Trump's latest remarks in the presidential campaign

war in ukraine

How young Ukrainians are coping after two and half years of war

I spent a week in Lviv, Ukraine at the end of June, where frequent air alarms sounded day and night, generators hummed persistently, power outages were the norm, and nightly curfews from 12am–5am were strictly implemented

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza gives a first-hand account of the profound impact of war on Ukraine’s youth

international affairs

World leaders are working on ‘Trump-proofing’ NATO

On Day two of the NATO Summit, happening in Washington DC, the world leaders have mainly focused on aiding Ukraine and continuously providing help to Ukraine even after the election

17 year-old Jefferson He reports on the decision making of ‘Trump-proofing’ NATO from Washington DC

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culture

A Japanese volleyball film that’s too fast for its own good

Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle is an exhilarating romp for well-versed fans, but for those who are going in blind, or have forgotten much of the anime, it can be confusing. With a limited runtime, the audience is left to fill in the gaps of many individual rivalries and character relationships

17 year-old Justin Sau reviews the animated volleyball movie Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle

science

Interesting facts about the galaxy you should know about

Studying galaxies helps us understand the universe’s history, structure and evolution, opening us up to an extraordinary space that we often overlook in our daily lives

16 year-old Sama explores the world beyond our solar system and facts about our universe

society

Are Americans normalising school shootings?

A voice comes over the speakers. Everyone knows where to go. It’s either a small closet, under the desks, or a boiler room, usually. We’re not supposed to talk, but people do, thinking this could never happen to us.

17 year-old Alia Saphier looks at possible solutions to the epidemic of gun violence in US schools

opinion

The Labour Vs Conservative TikTok battle felt like an uncle trying new slang

The parties took to TikTok and other apps soon after the election announcement, a move to be expected in order to appeal to younger voters. It is understandable that the parties are appealing to the youth vote, but you have to wonder why both sides decided to adopt the mentality of children in the process

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz gives her take on the Labour Vs Conservative social media battle following the UK general election

international affairs

Day 1 of the NATO Summit: support for Ukraine and Biden’s redemption

The Summit will introduce further NATO commitments for Ukraine. US President Joe Biden declared the alliance “stronger than ever” and said: “Russia will not prevail. Ukraine will prevail”

17 year-old Justin Sau recaps the first day of discussions at the 2024 NATO Summit

society

No more lies - FTC bans minors from NGL app

On July 9, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) began to take action against NGL Labs, LLC and its cofounders, Raj Vir and Joao Figueiredo for several law violations, including unfairly marketing services to children and teens

17 year-old Christian Yeung reports on the latest ban on anonymous messaging apps for minors

opinion

Bronny James: nature, nurture, or nepotism?

A namesake can be positive, as it is a constant reminder of someone important to one’s parents. However, it does not always play out the way one’s parents thought it would, oftentimes being a burden to the child to live up to certain expectations

16 year-old Noah Saphier on Bronny James joining the Los Angeles Lakers

international affairs

US 2024 elections: Is this the end of American support for Ukraine?

Planned for November 5, the US presidential election is poised to significantly impact Eastern Europe, especially given the pivotal roles of Ukraine and NATO in the region’s security dynamics. The results are set to shape the country’s transatlantic future and relations

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza analyses the potential results of the US elections and the impact of the NATO summit on the war in Ukraine

society

Boeing pleads guilty to fraud – misleading FAA regulators resulting in the loss of 346 lives

While accidents such as aeroplane crashes are rare, with the resources that Boeing has and the pressure from the US government and the public, one can hope that these unfortunate events will be limited in the future

16 year-old Noah Saphier outlines the timeline of the Boeing scandal

international affairs

What you need to know about NATO: the upcoming Summit in Washington DC

This summit represents a critical moment for the United States. While President Joe Biden has clearly stated that he will continue his candidacy, increasing numbers of important Democrats are calling for his resignation, whether that be publicly or privately

17 year-old Alia Saphier outlines the expectations and consequences of the NATO Summit

India’s PM Narendra Modi visits Moscow to ‘deepen ties’

The visit, which was announced on July 4 by the PM’s office, will be Modi’s first time arriving on Russian soil following the start of the Ukraine war. The leaders will review “all aspects of bilateral cooperation” and share their perspectives on “various regional and global issues”

19 year-old Maciej Cebula reports on Indian PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow

politics

France election 2024: Left beats far right but future remains unclear

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza reports on the French legislative elections

politics

Is Biden capable of resurrecting his campaign? The president seems to be ‘not going anywhere’

As the elections rapidly approach November 5, the world awaits Biden’s plans to not only defend his position on the ballot against his party but also secure the presidency

17 year-old Christian Yeung examines Biden’s attempts to stay in power following the presidential debate

politics

Will Biden go bye-then? Who would step in if he drops out?

With clips going viral and concerns all over social media, it seems that many Democrats have come to a similar conclusion following the recent presidential debate on June 27; Biden is too old and not in the right mind to run the country for the next four years

16 year-old Noah Saphier on the current candidates that could replace Biden on the Democratic ticket

politics

Trump versus the United States: the US fight against Trump stays alive amid immunity decision

A famous story proclaimed far and wide throughout the United States, even today, is the one of Washington rejecting the establishment of a monarchy by resigning as president. But now, around 248 years later, the constitutional government we were once so protective of is shifting towards what some may call a monarchy

17 year-old Alia Saphier on the implications of absolute immunity being granted to the president

politics

Democrats are between a rock and a hard place, but losing to Trump is not an option

There are many arguments against why Joe Biden should not run for the second term as the President of the United States, and most of them are valid. But there are millions of people, both in the US and around the world, who are terrified of the perspective of Trump returning to the White House – and young people are a significant part of this group

Teenagers of the Washington DC Newsroom explain candidate concerns ahead of the US presidential race

politics

UK election 2024: Labour Party wins landslide victory

Millions of Brits took to the polling stations in the UK – their votes led to the Labour Party winning a historic landslide victory. Disrupting the Conservative stronghold, which governed the country for 14 years

17 year-old Jefferson He reports on the UK general election results

opinion

Seeking closure: why open-ended movies are frustrating

Unlike traditional movies, which typically tie up loose ends, these films often leave many questions unanswered. While some argue that this ambiguity allows characters to leap off the screen and into our imaginations, I find it puzzling rather than enlightening

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza expresses her dissatisfaction with open-ended films

opinion

My experiences – good and bad – as a third culture kid

In today’s increasingly globalised world, more children are growing up with influences from multiple ethnic backgrounds and cultures. These children, often referred to as ‘third culture kids’ navigate the complexities of two, three or sometimes even four different cultures in their everyday life

16 year-old Camille Hasbani on the experience of being French-Syrian and living in Denmark

culture

Can traditional Chinese opera survive in pragmatic Singapore?

Characterised by its lyricism and elegant gestures, Chinese opera is a dying art form in Singapore. The number of Chinese street opera troupes has dwindled drastically from hundreds to about ten

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang considers the future of this historical but neglected art form

opinion

How gaming helped me to cope with anxiety and homesickness

Many people consider gaming a waste of time or a bad addiction. However, video games have been my sanctuary, a place to let off steam and find a moment of calm amid life’s storms

16 year-old Sofiia Didenko talks about the positive impact of video games

culture

The creation and evolution of Superman

‘It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… Superman!’ Perhaps the most iconic superhero ever created, spawning millions of comic books, films, television shows and merchandise, the Last Son of Krypton has captured hearts and imaginations all over the world for decades

17 year-old Justin Sau explains how the ‘Man of Steel’ created the superhero genre, 90 years ago

culture

How Gen Z adopted LGBTQ+ slang

You might have heard of ‘slay’, ‘tea’, ‘shade’ and ‘queen’… but do you know where they originate from? Gen Z and millennials use these terms, in a variety of situations, from complimenting and hyping up their peers to expressing disrespect or disgust. But few seem to actually know where this slang came from

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz explains the origins of modern-day slang in queer subculture

science

The dangerous rise of diabetes in South Asia

The rate of diabetes is increasing drastically across the world, but particularly in developing countries such as Sri Lanka and India. With expensive treatments, there is a rising importance to follow precautions to better protect health expenditure

15 year-old Lisindi Liyanage explores the past, present and future of diabetes in Sri Lanka

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culture

Passion. Tension. Match point.

The film is not really about tennis, but about the tense, to-and-fro relationship that tennis represents. That sense of tension only adds to the desire-ridden love triangle that Italian director Luca Guadagnino paints in his sexy sports drama Challengers

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Challengers, a romantic tennis drama filled with desire

opinion

Academic achievements do not define people

It is important to remember that arts-oriented subjects also require discipline and hard work. Simply because they require a different skill set to that of STEM subjects does not mean they should be overlooked

16 year-old Anna Wilkin explains why good grades aren’t the only way to measure success

economics

Decoding ‘Bidenomics’ and its role in the US election

With the US election looming in November, economic policies are taking centre stage in re-election campaign bids. ‘Bidenomics’ is both a source of fiery criticism and fervent support for the president, but what does it actually mean for Americans?

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva explains the intricacies of President Biden’s economic policies

opinion

Poland’s LGBTQ+ policies must change to protect its youth

In the most recent Rainbow Map ranking Poland ranked last among EU members, and not for the first time. In a country that deems being queer unnatural how are young people supposed to feel safe in this environment?

17 year-old Maria Mitko decries Poland’s position as the ‘most homophobic country’ in the EU

opinion

Alcohol, emotions and swearing: Five things I’ve found surprising about Denmark

The Danish capital, Copenhagen, has gained publicity among young people as a vacation hotspot and for its unique fashion sense. But what cultural differences in Denmark might catch you off guard?

16 year-old Varvara Tkachenko shares her experience as a Ukrainian who recently moved to Copenhagen

opinion

Harrison Butker's speech feels like a scene from The Handmaid’s Tale

In a public speech full of misogynistic, homophobic and hateful comments, an NFL player has sparked widespread criticism. While free speech is a fundamental right in the US, at what point does it cross the blurry line into hate speech

14 year-old Helena Bruzdziak on a commencement by US football star and its misogynistic message

society

NHS doctors at breaking point: long hours, low pay, physical and mental stress

This is the impact of public-sector strikes. Education stopped; healthcare workers not caring for sick people, backlogs, longer waiting lists. But strikes are happening for a reason. To stop the strikes and bring back order to our government-funded services, we must address the root of the problem

17 year-old Ananya Prasanna explores why junior doctors are striking for better pay and conditions

opinion

How human rights advocate Sima Samar inspired me to never give up

Sima Samar is a strong supporter and advocate for her people, and girls like me are continually inspired by her work to make our futures better. Girls can take note of these qualities, despite the restrictions they may face, and become great leaders

16 year-old Swita expresses admiration for Afghan human rights activist Sima Samar, and discusses the key attributes of a good leader

human rights

‘Say it loud, gay is proud’: A brief history of Pride Month

It’s June, which means that it’s Pride Month! Although it is still an ongoing battle to ensure equal rights and opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community, we have come a long way since the early days of the Pride movement. So let us take some time to discuss the origins of this incredible celebration of queerness

17 year-old Christian Yeung outlines the history of Pride Month

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culture

See you later, space cowboy…

Set in the not-so-distant future, where humans have finally reached the stars and developed a dysfunctional multi-planetary society, Cowboy Bebop is part Western, part space opera, part neo-noir, and all fun

17 year-old Christian Yeung explains the appeal of the 1998 cult classic anime Cowboy Bebop

culture

Gen Z has mixed reactions to the 2024 Met Gala

The 2024 Met Gala, being a celebration that brings together the worlds of fashion, entertainment, and art, has received its feedback from Gen Z audiences and there is a lot to say

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza dissects Gen Z’s reactions to this year’s Met Gala in New York

opinion

Attending a Catholic school opens a new perspective inside you

I’m an atheist who has spent four years studying at a Catholic school in the UK. That may sound like a nightmare, but believe me it has been a valuable experience

17 year-old Jefferson He reflects on his experience as an atheist in a Catholic school

Marriage equality is the one thing that will last from 14 years of Tory rule

The current election campaign proves that over the last decade, marriage equality has become such a strong part of Britain that no one dares to challenge it. This is a striking change compared to the election campaign of 2010, when only Lib Dems unequivocally supported marriage equality

17 year-old Jefferson He looks back on a key LGBTQIA+ policy as the UK prepares to vote

opinion

Nineteen Eighty-Four: past, present and future

Nineteen Eighty-Four drew inspiration from the rise of totalitarian regimes by frightening readers with the threat of surveillance and loss of privacy. But what does that say about society today, where almost everyone has phones, tablets, computers, and smartwatches

17 year-old Justin Sau discusses the enduring relevance of Orwell’s masterpiece on its 75th birthday

opinion

Sri Lanka’s Moragahakanda dam project is an environmental disaster

The bar for one of Sri Lanka’s largest and supposedly most conservation-oriented development projects has been set so low that it has caused more damage than progress

14 year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe weighs up the pros and cons of a crucial irrigation project

economics

What does the looming TikTok ban mean for smaller business?

Almost 40% of small or midsized businesses say they rely on TikTok in order to be able to keep running. A ban could put a huge number of businesses at risk and threaten thousands of jobs

16 year-old Noah Saphier reports on the possible economic consequences of a TikTok ban in the US

opinion

Why everyone waited for Taylor Swift’s new album – including me

On the day that Taylor Swift released her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, the first thing I did upon waking up was to open my Apple Music app and listen to the first song on the album

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh gives her verdict on the American superstar’s latest release

opinion

Can Gen Z use social media to learn?

While such platforms are often thought of as simply a waste of time and energy, I believe they can be used for much more than mindless scrolling through feeds – like learning

17 year-old Maria Mitko unlocks the potential of social media as an educational tool

society

Meet five Harbingers’ students displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia

To “highlight the wealth that has been lost,” five teenage girls who fled Artsakh in the autumn of 2023 have joined the Armenian Newsroom of Harbingers’ Magazine

17 year-old Maria Mitko explains the background to Harbingers’ new Armenian newsroom

opinion

Video games are the new way to experience stories

Video games are an untapped source of entertainment and stories. In a sense, it is a playable movie; something that you are both watching and controlling at the same time. Today, video games deliver a spectacle in both visuals and world-building

17 year-old Christian Yeung on the untapped potential of video games

opinion

To be or not to be… an international student

Being an international student, attending different schools, seeing other countries and experiencing new environments gives you a lot of opportunities. You are able to find what you like and what you are good at, improve yourself and be prepared for the future

14 year-old Anastasia Kulikova explains the advantages of studying abroad

opinion

Is the price of having an aesthetic too high?

With the rise of social media subcultures, aesthetics have become the new trend. This viral internet trend is becoming an obsession with reducing ourselves to a defined box and capitalising on our purchasing addiction to stay current, but at the expense of the environment and our authenticity

14 year-old Helena Bruździak delves into the social media phenomenon of Gen Z aesthetics

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culture

Teen hero returns for a second helping of heavy-hitting action and powerful emotions

Though not as powerful as the first season, season 2 of Invincible manages to stay fairly steady in terms of quality, with even the weaker episodes being resonant and exciting. I just hope we won’t have to wait another two years for the next season

17 year-old Justin Sau reviews the second season of Amazon Prime’s animated superhero series Invincible

economics

Explainer: What is the blue economy?

As sustainability becomes significantly more prevalent in government policy, a goal for corporations, and a focus of social activism, the blue economy has the potential to shape millions of lives

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska explains the blue economy and its impact on youth employment

society

Educational inequality in Australia: Is there a solution?

Australia’s selective school system was originally designed to provide free, high-quality education to gifted kids who couldn’t afford private schooling, but now it’s fuelling the education divide it sought to remedy

17 year-old Tanya Chi discusses the problems with selective schooling in New South Wales

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culture

Dev Patel’s directorial debut goes bananas

In the world where John Wick and its imitators dominate the action movie genre, Dev Patel picks up a camera, directs and stars to deliver a unique piece full of passion and flare. Monkey Man might not push the boundaries of the genre, but it has everything to become an action cult classic

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Monkey Man, a gritty action movie with a rush of adrenaline

economics

Energy in crisis: why nuclear power could be our future

Since the Industrial Revolution, one primary question has been central to all of humanity’s technological advancements: how do we generate enough energy? Historically, energy was generated with the easiest, cheapest, and most accessible fuel source: coal. However, the dangers of fossil fuels mean that we must find an alternative to ensure Earth continues to be habitable

18 year-old Erin Walshaw investigates our most controversial power supply

science

Murder or holy grail? The controversies in stem cell medicine

In the field of regenerative medicine, the use of stem cells is a highly debated issue. With vast medical progress and promising results experts can’t help but ask “Is it worth one life if you can save thousands, or millions?”

17 year-old Swara Kulkarni examines the future of regenerative medicine

opinion

Are NBA referees killing the game of basketball?

From players making ‘money’ gestures to the referees, coaches angrily discussing film on laptops during press conferences, and even the league’s own Officiating Last Two-Minute Reports commonly displaying multiple incorrect calls, the state of basketball refereeing is incredibly dire. There needs to be more accountability for consistently inaccurate officiating

17 year-old Inika Singh explains the controversies surrounding NBA officiating

economics

The meteoric rise and fall of FTX and its founder Sam Bankman-Fried

The cryptocurrency tycoon was accused of stealing billions of dollars from his customers. The trial of the disgraced CEO has now come to an end, bringing to light the murky details of FTX’s collapse and its consequences

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva chronicles FTX’s collapse and explains its impact on the cryptocurrency world

opinion

Women-only spaces are necessary, not sexist. Here’s why

While opponents can claim that the exclusion of men amounts to sex discrimination, many argue that women-only spaces are a solution to gender inequality. These places prioritise women’s well-being and ultimately, have no negative effect on anyone

17 year-old Maria Mitko explains the importance of women-only spaces and announces the launch of the Women’s Desk at Harbingers’

opinion

Hollywood, please stop making movie musicals!

While stage-to-screen adaptations attempt to capture the essence of the original stories, there is a lingering sense that something is lost in translation – the raw and real energy of live theatre. Hollywood’s attempt to please everyone continually leaves no one satisfied

17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala bemoans the adaptations of stage musicals to film

economics

A novel approach to affordable housing – Habitat for Humanity’s $1 acquisition

As Gen Z enters the job and housing markets, the need for innovative solutions to the housing crisis has become even more critical. Working closely with volunteers, donors, and partner families, Habitat for Humanity is providing a needed solution

17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala sheds light on a new solution to her state’s housing crisis

politics

Gen Z’s opportunity to shape America: The current state of the 2024 US Elections

This November, Americans will cast their votes to determine who will serve as president for the next four years, marking one of the most polarized election cycles in the nation’s history. With over 8mn more Gen Z voters since the 2022 midterms, young voters hold the power to significantly impact the result

17 year-old Emily Dorman explains Gen Z’s position on this year’s US presidential election

economics

How a fire helmet company is revolutionizing workplace inclusion

Phenix’s program, Opportunity for All, is dedicated to improving the employment rate of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) via an innovative education and working program. But it is also a smart business move

17 year-old Inika Singh interviews program administrator Bailey Comstock on how the California firm is helping those with intellectual disabilities

science

Bugs for dinner? Why eating insects is good for you…

Insects are one of the most sustainable food sources we have. Across the world, eating insects remains an important tradition. But not in the West – instead, there are fierce stigmas that surround entomophagy

17 year-old Anna Louise Lovat explains entomophagy and why it could be the next big thing

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culture

An adventurous meditation on love soaked with Italian magic –La Chimera review

Every frame of Italian director Alice Rorhwacher’s La Chimera (a chimera is an illusion or invention of the mind) is permeated with the mythical magic and dizziness of the scorching Italian sun. It manages to be fantastical, amusing, and romantic all at once

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the captivating and dreamy Italian film

opinion

We are bored: Gifted students need challenge to thrive

Gifted and Talented programs have helped students worldwide to enrich their learning. MACC, the Vancouver school program which accelerated the pace of the standard curriculum, has now been redesigned to shorten the support provided to students

18 year-old Erin Walshaw talks about her experience as a gifted student in Vancouver – and the problems she faces

science

The impact of climate change in Australia

In Australia, every decade since 1950 has been warmer. In New South Wales, the most populous state in Australia, locals share how the regularity of seasons has changed

14 year-old Anastasia Kulikova on the detrimental and highly influential effects of climate change in New South Wales

society

‘Misinformation is now produced on an industrial scale’ – Concerns over propaganda on social media

Three in ten children aged 12–15 used TikTok as a news source in 2022. With the rapid growth of social media, misinformation is both accessible and actively promoted to vulnerable young people on an unprecedented scale

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz interviews history student, Gabrielle Segal, on misinformation and propaganda

culture

A guide to Holi – The Hindu festival of colour

Celebrated during the months of Chaitra and Falgun in the Nepali calendar, Holi is a major event. In the capital, Kathmandu, it is full of noisy laughing crowds of people splattered in different colours

Students aged 11-18 from the OXSFJ Nepal Project shared their celebration of Holi Festival

opinion

Esports is a sport. Period

Despite its rapid growth, competitive online gaming isn’t given the same respect as basketball or football, with many still believing it is just an activity for lazy nerds sitting in their mom’s basement. So why should esports be considered a sport?

17 year-old Christian Yeung on the acknowledgment that esports deserves

opinion

Womansplaining mansplaining

Mansplaining. If you’re a woman, I can almost guarantee that you sighed at that word. Societal history has allowed for sexism to take route but there are steps we can take today to reevaluate and correct these behaviours

17 year-old Alia Saphier explains mansplaining and how to break the cycle

opinion

Teens don’t owe you opinions

As a generation we are more motivated than most before us. In spite of adults attempting to skew the opinions of teens on a vast array of unsolvable problems we should craft our own opinions and choose which to fight for

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil on the overloaded choices young people face on social media

society

How volunteers are helping to serve as a ‘beacon of hope’ in Afghanistan

Two years after the Taliban’s supposed temporary ban, another academic year has started, leaving girls in Afghanistan at a greater disadvantage. Inspired by the efforts of organisations to provide education to girls and women, I volunteered and witnessed the difference they can make

17 year-old Zohra on the resilient efforts of local organisations in providing life-changing opportunities to girls and young women in Afghanistan

society

Keep or ditch the monarchy? The perspectives of young Britons

As time passes, younger generations are moving further away from the monarchy. From outdated traditions and scandals to the financial burden on taxpayers, young people outline their opinions on the topic

16 year-old Jefferson He interviews young people on their views of the UK monarchy

climate

Hundreds of Sri Lankan elephant deaths are caused by human activity

Urbanisation and habitat loss has created a ‘frontline’ of worsening conflict between humans and elephants with deadly consequences for both

14 year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe on rising threats against the elephant population

opinion

Why Ukrainians speak Russian

When I’m asked why so many other Ukrainian refugees speak Russian, I am not sure what to answer, as the answer lies beneath complex layers of oppression from our neighbouring country – it is not a preference.

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko outlines the history of linguicide in Ukraine

opinion

The importance of striking a healthy balance on social media

Social media is a realm where borders blur, friendships transcend geographical barriers, and voices resound across continents. But in the vast world of online platforms, we must use these tools wisely to avoid the growing dangers it can pose

17 year-old Shanhaza and 15 year-old Mahwa warn of the dangers hidden in social media’s vast potential

science

Seven things you need to know about eating disorders

Eating disorders, which are among the deadliest mental illnesses, are on the rise worldwide. This article aims to delve into the history and nature of eating disorders, as well as explore the different types of support systems available

17 year-old Maria Mitko sheds light on the prevalence of eating disorders among young people

science

Camembert on the ‘verge of extinction’ – What does this mean for cheese production?

Camembert cheese, one of Normandy’s most precious exports, is ‘under threat’ with its dangerous lack of fungi reproductivity. With a strain to meet high demand, will we soon see this cheese disappear for good?

18 year-old Sofia Radysh explains the challenges facing the popular delicacy

culture

Netflix’s release strategies are dangerous to auteur cinema

As the 2023 award season comes to an end, Netflix has once again gained global recognition for its original content. But could the streaming giant in its pursuit of acclaim pose a danger to the future of cinema?

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin explores the dangers of a never-ending stream of content

opinion

Why are we resistant to traditional offices, and how can we repurpose vacant spaces?

I think my generation is so accustomed to online schooling that we can’t imagine ourselves working from an office. With both a climate and global housing crisis, we could repurpose these spaces to provide a much needed solution

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska on a work-from-home culture and reusing empty offices

human rights

‘Her name was Liza.’ Violence against women is on the rise worldwide

Recent shockwaves over the brutal rape and murder of a women in Warsaw reiterate the dangers women face globally. It seems the United Nations SDG goal to ‘achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’ is far from being achieved by its 2030 date

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh reports on the global implications of a recent crime in Warsaw

society

What young Afghan women want to achieve in the world of technology

Despite bans on women’s education and rights in Afghanistan, technology is enabling them to look beyond their restrictive environment to gain more knowledge and chase their dreams

13 year-old Naziya surveys Afghan women on the potential of technology as a tool of income and education

science

Ways to maintain a healthy and balance lifestyle

Taking time to focus on our habits, our lifestyle choices, and what we put into our bodies, can be difficult and sometimes confronting but taking care of yourself is important undertaking

16 year-old Swita shares her guide to living a healthier lifestyle

opinion

We’re not ‘lazy’, technology has simply made jobs easier and more profitable

“Lazy,” “entitled,” “careless” and “lacklustre” are just some of the words used to describe my generation. But is Gen Z deserving of such names or are these just amplified misconceptions?

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev on corporate rejection amid the changing workplace

society

Interning amongst disenchanted workers, I realised the reality of social mobility in Singapore

With a stable political environment to attract a large share of foreign direct investments, Singapore is no doubt an economic powerhouse. Yet it withheld a more ghastly truth – a vast cityscape of inequality and an overworked population

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang examines the dreams of young Singaporeans

opinion

A medium for kids? Why we should award more Oscars to animated films

Many anime films have received universal praise for their unique storytelling, emotional depth, and thought-provoking themes, yet are largely ignored in other categories at the Oscars. As one of the leading authorities on film, the Academy must spearhead the effort to challenge preconceived notions that animation can’t be taken seriously

17 year-old Justin Sau on the greater recognition animated films deserve

science

‘Extremely alarming’ – Concern raised over global obesity increase amongst young people

Current trends predict a 100% increase of childhood obesity between 2020 and 2035. Despite expert warnings, many countries are failing to address the ‘structural drivers’ of obesity to halt rising levels

17 year-old Sofia Radysh reports on rising global health concerns

human rights

Singaporean LGBTQ+ community still faces a ‘long road ahead’ despite constitutional changes

Despite a shift in governmental policies towards the LGBTQ+ community, discrimination still exists. The government continues to advocate for family units being strictly heterosexual to ‘protect’ the marriage constitution

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang explores progressive steps towards equality

politics

Lib Dems pledge youth-focused agenda: Exclusive interview with Sir Ed Davey

Ahead of the next UK general election, the Liberal Democrat leader promises to continue “knocking on the doors of young people” to listen to their concerns

16 year-old Jefferson He interviews Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey on youth-centric issues

Unique Nepali foods everyone must taste once in their life

Young people in Kathmandu shared with Harbingers’ the traditional dishes they would like every reader to try once landing themselves at the feet of the Himalayas

11 students from Nepal recommend outstanding Nepali cuisine

economics

How many water bottles is too many? The state of overconsumption in America

Stanley Cups recently saw an astronomical increase in sales coupled with a social media craze. Companies continue to capitalize on the fear of missing out and influencer-led marketing campaigns

17 year-old Christian Yeung speaks with economy expert Brianne Foley

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culture

Dune: Part Two achieves the impossible, delivering the grandest space opera to date

Dune: Part Two is a testament to what the medium of cinema stands for. Breaking the boundaries of the sci-fi genre, the film results in one of the best sequels in history

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the second installment a sci-fi great

society

For thousands of teenagers worldwide, MUNs are a gateway to international affairs

Globally recognised as an ‘important contribution’, young people share with Harbingers’ the value of participating in MUN as it’s todays teenagers who are “going to take” the place of politicians in the future

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh interviews Model United Nations participants from Poland

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culture

Miyazaki’s perfect blend of magic and existentialism –The Boy And The Heron Review

Beautiful both visually and story-wise, The Boy And The Heron is a must-watch. It is suitable for every age as almost everyone will find something in the film to relate to

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on tantalising cinematography in an emotive animated film

society

10 things you should know about Nepal

From festivals and culture to world heritage sites and areas of natural beauty, teenage journalists in Kathmandu each share one fact about their home country Nepal

Teenagers aged 11-18 from the Mountain Children Home share the beauty of Nepal

war in ukraine

To end Russia’s influence over Ukraine, we must learn from the past

We cannot change history, but we can learn from the past and start acting in another way. Ukraine gained independence over 30 years ago, but Russian Imperial ambitions still seem to be present

17 year-old Mariia Sydorenko on the problems of ingrained Russian propaganda

sports

From stadiums to screens: the alarming rise of racism in football

With the ongoing 2023–24 football season, it becomes crucial to address instances of racism, which were one of the most commonly reported forms of discrimination last season

16 year-old Isaaq Hussain on persistent racism in football

science

Key things you should know about quantum physics

All of modern technology relies on quantum physics. Phones, TVs, watches, vehicles, and computers only work because of our understanding of electrons’ behaviour. Quantum physics is an incredibly important field with many more developments to come

17 year-old Sofia Radysh breaks down the complex science into a basic guide

opinion

Why growing up as a young woman is scary: A teen’s perspective from Poland

Despite the global progress made in women’s rights in the past few decades, Poland still has a long way to go. The country’s strict abortion laws, gender pay gap and prescribed lifestyle for a woman’s future fills me with fear

17 year-old Maria Mitko on the daunting reality of womanhood

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culture

Simple, sexy film that brings new life to the rom-com genre. Anyone But You Review

Charming leads, an intriguing set-up and a “parent trap” meets enemies-to-lovers trope, what more is there to wish for?

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the explosive chemistry of the newest grand rom-com

opinion

Why disabled individuals ‘do not exist’ in Ukraine

You do not truly realise the extent of your detachment from reality until you encounter a person with a disability and notice the systemic conditioning that leads us to believe that disabilities limit individuals

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko outlines proactive steps to inclusivity

human rights

‘Our world cannot afford to wait’ - International calls for peace intensify over Israel-Gaza war

The Israeli military has begun targeting Rafah, a southern city housing more than a million displaced Palestinians with “nowhere to go.” With around half of Gaza’s population finding shelter in the city, this has the potential to drastically escalate the humanitarian crisis in the region

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the current calls for humanitarian relief

society

Students and teachers fight back against the ‘library selection rubric’ in a Texas public school

Teachers and students in the school district have spoken out against the school board’s decision to filter the literature kept in classroom libraries after complaints from parents

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil explores book banning in the United States

opinion

Oligopolies on the vaccine market hindered saving lives - should Pfizer have profited?

With the UK’s ongoing Covid inquiry, in which an independent organisation is examining the British government’s response to the pandemic, it is worth asking – should this essential drug have ever been for-profit?

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna examines the profit incentives driving pharmaceutical advancement

science

Miracle drug Selinexor hopes to combat a cancer with over a 90% mortality rate

As trials for Glioblastoma continue to progress, Selinexor will undergo more rigorous processes for FDA approval. However, this miracle drug is currently the guiding beacon to many cancer patients’ lives

16 year-old Swara Kulkarni on the early signs of success in clinical trials

culture

Lights out: Broadway shows close prematurely

Since its post-pandemic return, Broadway has struggled to reach its previous levels of success. Closely tied to tourism numbers, theatres are still unable to fill seats and shows are suffering from early closures

17 year-old Alia Saphier reports on the decline of new acclaimed theatre

culture

‘Never-ending search for the snooze button’. Can AI replace humans in writing poetry?

Long considered one of the purest forms of human emotion and expression, will AI be able to produce works that resonate on a profoundly human level like poetry should? Finnish author Jukka Aalho may hold the answer

17 year-old Justin Sau analyses computer-generated poems

opinion

Media depicting women holds one main aim: Giving a space for women to be judged

Defining a woman starts with using words like ‘trailblazer’ and ‘independent’ and ‘controversial’. A set of words is quite a small frame to describe everything that a person could be

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil’s award-winning essay on Women’s Rights

economics

How can banks attract young customers? Understanding Gen Z's preferences

Student debt, AI improvements, and data privacy. In order to target a Gen Z demographic, banks must listen and adapt their engagement strategies

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska investigates young people’s priorities with banking

human rights

US immigration authorities on alert following Honduras migrant caravan crossing

Immigration emerges as a hot topic yet again in the lead up to the 2024 US presidential election and if a new bill is passed by Congress it “would be the biggest changes to immigration law in nearly 40 years” threatening the conditions to asylum

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the growing pressure at the border

climate

‘Save the bees!’ Of course, but which bees?

17 year-old Anna Lovat on the endangered world of 20,000 species

economics

With £28bn ‘green investment’ pledge gone, what Labour’s government will mean for the UK economy

Ahead of the upcoming general election Labour has unveiled a “Five Point Plan for Growth” to promote economic prosperity in all parts of the country. Harbinger’s takes a closer look at each pledge

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev analyses the economic implications of a Labour government

war in ukraine

Project helping to revive Ukrainian libraries in de-occupied and front-line territories

Russian soldiers have already destroyed more than 120 Ukrainian’s libraries since the full-scale invasion in 2022. A project called “Riznytsia Yе” asks people to buy and donate books to the affected libraries in hopes these efforts will prevent Russian influence

17 year-old Mariia Sydorenko on the ambitions of the project founder, Ukrainian journalist Emma Antoniuk

opinion

Do dogs feel guilty? I think not - you’ve conditioned them that way

It would be nice to believe that our furry pets do share a similar behavioural conscience to us – explaining exactly why they are man’s best friend. Well, science might not be on your side

17 year-old Sofia Radysh outlines the science behind the typical ‘guilty face’

culture

What’s the whole buzz about? The Grammy Awards explained

As we approach the 66th edition of the Grammy Awards, held annually by the Recording Academy, here are the things you need to know to fully appreciate the upcoming ceremony

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh looks under the red carpet of Recording Academy awards

politics

What is ‘first-past-the-post’, and how does one command a majority? UK General Election explained

As the UK prepares for a general election, Harbingers Magazine takes a closer look and explains all the important information

16 year-old Jefferson He explains the background to the upcoming election

politics

‘The south is being left behind’. UNCTAD summit raises concerns over the current international order

With the largest grouping of the global south, the G77 January summit aimed to address the growing gap leaving developing countries behind amidst climate, humanitarian and economic concerns

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova reports on the ‘cascading crisis’ in the global South

politics

US and Iraqi leaders hold first talk over future relations - what does this mean?

US and Iraqi leaders have held their first round of negotiations over the prospective removal of the US-led international military coalition from Iraq following increased tensions

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek reports on the most recent statements from government officials

economics

The rise of careless consumerism among young people

Rapid consumerism fueled by short trend cycles are promoting an unsustainable mindset among the young that clothes are temporary and easily replaceable, ignoring the environmental crisis

17 year-old Shriya Kalluri explores the link between social media and fast-fashion

society

How higher education consulting agencies have a stronghold on college admissions

Getting into a top university is getting astronomically more competitive. With more students turning to college admission consultants for an increased chance of being admitted, the playing field is far from even

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang on the US university admissions system

society

Unattainable ‘angel status’. Patriarchy still skews the narratives of women in power

From fashion breakdowns to dating habits, selective media reporting has long attempted to reduce women in the spotlight to harmful gender stereotypes’

17 year-old Alia Saphier critiques the media’s continual repression of women

opinion

Shadowy, CIA-affiliated Palantir should not be trusted with NHS patients' data

Palantir Technologies has very quickly become a crucial entity in the lives of all Britons, coming into possession of sensitive UK health data. But how do you know about the company’s past?

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva on the legal and moral questions of big data entering the public sector

opinion

Let’s take music seriously. It’s not a soundtrack for picking vegetables at a supermarket

Have we lost the ability to appreciate music? The greatest talent which humanity ever had to offer is now persistently used to assist everyday activities

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh shares ways to better immerse yourself in music

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culture

Why I hated Poor Things but will watch it again and again

The star-studded cast movingly invokes the sense of the uncanny, something that lies at the heart of this modern ‘Frankenstein’ tale

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on female depictions in Yorgos Lanthimos’s film

climate

The world’s biggest iceberg is almost gone

A British polar research ship has begun exploring A23a – an iceberg that recently started moving after decades of stabilisation

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on the last few predicted months of A23a’s existence

human rights

Ropes or Syringes: A Closer Look at the Death Penalty in Singapore

An ethical question on the justification of the death penalty has been debated for decades if not centuries. With a majority 73.7% in public support, I was curious to find out for myself why so many Singaporeans backed a seemingly inhumane punishment

17 year-old Nicole Jin surveys locals on the morality of crime prevention

culture

Doja Cat’s ‘devilish’ controversy. A marketing move or reason for concern?

Doja Cat finds herself amidst whispers of a supposed ‘deal with the devil’. Should her actions be perceived as a deliberate marketing strategy to keep the spotlight burning or as signs of troubling mental health concerns?

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei explores the corrupt nature of fame

opinion

We shouldn’t trust AI in courts - Here’s why

AI has already opened many avenues but within the legal system it was integrated far earlier than most would expect. Police data, on which these software train on, contain a long history of bias that one can’t help but question the validity of its predictions

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz on the dangers of data bias

society

Youth backs Idris Elba’s call to tackle knife crime. ‘Increasing policing is not a solution’

Young people in Oxford not only heard about the Don’t Stop Your Future campaign launched by actor Idris Elba, but recognise the need for better measures against the culture of violence among the youth

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh speaks with the Home Office and young people about knife crime

opinion

Has the movie industry transformed into a risk-averse machine?

As the tsunami of reboots and remakes continues to threaten to overwhelm us, it’s crucial to recognize the consequences of this trend. While nostalgia can provide moments of joy and familiarity, it should not be a substitute for genuine creativity

16 year-old Justin Sau criticises the culture of remakes

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culture

Messy biopic where only battlefields shine: Napoleon review

Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby put on grand performances that are still not enough to save the film from coming across as bloated

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the latest box office disappointment

economics

Major economies tackling the housing crisis: Implications for the youth

The major economies, like the US, China, and the UK, aim to address the housing crisis amid growing concerns about widening affordability gaps. This article will explore how the situation will impact the younger generation who are at greatest risk

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev on the global economic outlook

human rights

Houseless in California - Experiencing a Human Rights Crisis

Reddick, who shared with me his stories, doesn’t just live on the streets. He’s also incredibly spiritual, has a passion for music and fashion, wants to work hard, and wants to financially support and be there for his daughter while she grows up, instead of becoming a sporadic visit

17 year-old Siri Atluri in conversation with a houseless individual

Rating:

culture

She is your mirror, and both of you will mirror our reality: May December review

Netflix dropped its Oscar contender, an eerie drama by Todd Haynes which delivers a slow-burner that hits you in the guts

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the masterfully crafted new film

human rights

Israel-Gaza War: The multifaceted conflict that has resulted in decades of suffering

The recent conflict between Hamas and Israel has defined a bitter chapter in Israel-Palestine’s history. As the toll rises, the urgency of international attention is highlighted against a backdrop of ceasefires and broken truces

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova outlines the history of the modern conflict

society

The lethal surge: How fentanyl addiction has taken hold of young Americans

Opioid addiction in the US is a “public health crisis” with a significant and fatal impact on the youth. Education on the dangers and dosage is a necessity for young people to protect themselves

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva reports on painkiller dependency

society

Helping hands - How Afghan girls are instrumental in providing education

Organisations such as LEARN have been helping girls get an underground education by providing online classes such as science and web design lessons. Through their help and kindness, the power to offer opportunities to others is then passed on into our hands

17 year-old Zohra on the inspiring goal of helping young people follow their dreams

economics

Election outcomes bring optimism into the Polish stock market, experts report

Economist Katarzyna Polanska speaks with Harbingers about the historic stock market upturn and the projections fueling optimism for Poland’s economic landscape

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska reports on the the strengthening of the Polish zloty

culture

Why is Spotify Wrapped such a buzz?

Generation Z has a strong affinity for Spotify Wrapped – a tailored compilation of user statistics for the year, including top artists and total listening minutes – as it reflects their “musical journey” throughout the year

16 year-old Maria Mitko interviews young people about the viral marketing campaign

Rating:

culture

A film equivalent to a long hug encapsulates the Christmas spirit. The Holdovers review

The story of three unlikely individuals finding a family bond in uncertain circumstances is medicine for a broken heart. And with its emotional warmth and sentimentally cheerful ending, ‘The Holdovers’ still touches on severe topics of grief and depression – and does that quite well

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on a future Christmas classic

science

“Wrap your mattresses!” French residents take action against bedbug crisis

The ‘crisis’ has been everywhere – across social media sites and national newspapers, highlighting the widespread panic. But what are these bugs and how is Paris trying to fight them off?

17 year-old Sofia Radysh answers the key questions and concerns over the outbreak

climate

COP28: Youth demands to be heard on climate justice on global stage

With the largest youth generation in history, young people have taken to the global stage to highlight their concerns and participate in climate change policy-making

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova reports on the COP28

politics

Four key takeaways from the US Republican presidential debate

The race is on for the next US president and seven candidates are battling it out to win the top seat. Here are the key takeaways and topics from the Republican presidential debate

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek reports on American right’s internal debate

opinion

We need to break the mental health stigma in football. Here is why

Mental health among football players is overlooked, despite being equally vital as their performance on the pitch. I strongly believe it deserves equal attention and recognition

16 year-old Isaaq Hussain argues against the culture of mental health suppression in football

science

“We aren’t faking it.” Tic sufferer warns over condition’s representation on social media

From mediaeval peasants plagued by an uncontrollable urge to dance, to nuns experiencing mass possessions in convents – mass sociogenic illnesses (MSIs) have played a role in history and can also be seen in the present day

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna reports on mass social media-induced illnesses (MSMIs)

opinion

WHO, paying $250 to sexual assault victims in DRC, proves the world justice system is broken

More than 80 aid workers sent to handle the Ebola outbreak in the DRC have been accused of involvement in a sexual assault scandal. And in the end, those without privileges are left with so-called compensation and a traumatic memory for the rest of their lives

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko condemns World Health Organisation’s sexual assault scandal

culture

Rap music on trial. Debate resurfaces over evidence ruling in Young Thug case

The issue of using rap lyrics as evidence in court has recently been reignited by such a high-profile case. Young Thug and his legal team assert that the use of lyrics in court is prejudicial and could affect his right to freedom of speech

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz reports on using art as confession

human rights

Nepal's historic equality milestone: First LGBTQ+ couple celebrate receiving marriage certificate

Last month marked a historic milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in Nepal, as the country officially documented the first same-sex marriage. Surendra Pandey, reflecting on this ground-breaking act said “this is a huge achievement not only for us but for all sexual and gender minorities”

16 year-old Jefferson He reports on minorities' rocky path towards legal marriages

society

Vancouver's New Leaf Project: Providing direct cash assistance to homeless individuals

The initiative aimed to increase the financial stability of those unhoused has far surpassed its expectations. Those who received funds not only became more food secure but also found stable housing much faster, taking three months as opposed to five

17 year-old Erin Walshaw on the promising results to ease homelessness

opinion

Don't just diversify the curriculum, decolonise it

The diversified curriculum does not challenge societal power structures which narrow the dominant perspective through which we view the world. It is imperative that we do not stop here

Sanaa Pasha on the diluted version of colonial history in education

society

Fast fashion’s ugly secret. Numerous brands in legal trouble over intellectual property theft

The fast fashion industry has long been infamous for its exploitation of vulnerable labourers, waste production, and environmental degradation. More recently, however, intellectual property scandals have also mounted against some notable fashion corporations

16 year-old Tanya Chi reports on independent designers’ accusations

society

Dreaming of home: How Armenian teenagers navigate the exodus and loss of Nagorno-Karabakh

Through interviews, the impact of the humanitarian catastrophe on children, young people and families culminated in a shared dream to someday return to their homelands

16 year-old Jefferson He chronicles the humanitarian crisis in Armenia, from the takeover of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), and its profound impact on the youth

economics

Autumn Statement 2023: Four key takeaways for the UK economy

UK Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, delivered economic plans in his Autumn Statement budget for the following years ahead. This article will provide an explainer on the key takeaways

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev explores the economic implications from this years report

human rights

A ‘silent genocide’ in DRC is impacting millions of lives

In the heart of Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stands as a nation marred by a history of conflict and a tapestry of complexity. Described as ‘the silent genocide’, an ongoing conflict in the eastern region has cast a spotlight on the escalating tensions

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova breaks down the escalating tensions in the DRC

opinion

Perhaps it is time to cancel ‘cancel culture’

To many, ‘cancel culture’ and the act of boycotting a public figure, has become an important tool of social justice. However, ‘cancel culture’ prioritises public condemnation without fostering constructive dialogue or providing opportunities for redemption

17 year-old Megan Lee on the social justice of "cancelling"

climate

‘Panda diplomacy’: How furry mammals are used in China’s foreign relations

Recognised across the world for being cute and cuddly, pandas are lesser known for their involvement in global diplomacy

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on the shift in Beijing’s panda policy

economics

How social media influencers reshaped the global marketing landscape

Social media influencers have become crucial drivers of the economy, and their contribution to the global market cannot be ignored. With the rise of social media, e-commerce has taken on a whole new level of significance

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska on the rising value of e-commerce

culture

An unexpected ally: how social media could revitalize reading culture

It’s high time we put down the pitchforks and extinguish the torches we’ve been brandishing at TikTok and Instagram. As it turns out, amidst the sea of hashtags and memes, a world of literary innovation awaits

16 year-old Justin Sau explores the boom in reading culture

opinion

Motivation is helping me face daily obstacles and it can help you too

Girls like me need all the motivation they can get to stay focused and overcome hardship. I’m 16 and I’m unable to get a proper education in my home country of Afghanistan. But I will not let those limitations determine my future

16 year-old Swita on finding daily inspiration and self-help

opinion

Compared to dogs or children, women struggle in the Ukrainian army

Women are a vital part of Ukraine’s future victory but female soldiers continually face restrictions on their basic needs. Instead, women are treated as an object of entertainment rather than living, breathing, and equally capable human beings

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko speaks against the discrimination of women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine

opinion

How Claudia Goldin inspires me by shattering barriers in the male-dominated realm of economics

Goldin presented a previously unheard-of hypothesis arguing that access to the contraceptive pill played a vital role in accelerating the revolutionary increase in female workforce participation, doubling in size between 1960 and 1980

18-year-old Nadia Diakowska on the inspiration from this year’s Nobel Prize winner in Economics

science

Since 1960, the contraceptive pill has revolutionized women's lives. One woman financed the research

The invention of the pill not only gave women the opportunity to plan parenthood, it revolutionized Western societies in gender equality. The pill allowed women to stay in education longer, and pursue professional careers

17 year-old Flora Lodd on the history and future of hormonal contraception

society

Destruction in devotion: how do cults weaponise human vulnerability?

The ambiguity of an ‘end to all’ has been used as a form of exploitation to keep people fearful and submissive – and Charles Manson’s “Helter Skelter” prophecy, a vision heralding an apocalyptic race war, might serve as an example

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva explores how cult leaders use fear to exert power

society

Afghan teenager opens kindergarten to help children “fly off into the horizons of tomorrow”

Shanhaza, at the age of 15, opened her own kindergarten ‘Fly’ to provide free care for infants to equip younger generations with education and opportunity.

17 year-old Shanhaza on her dreams and goals in providing education

politics

Seven things you need to know about the UK Covid inquiry

The COVID-19 inquiry has become the focal point of current affairs in the UK. This guide aims to break down the independent inquiry and answer frequently asked questions

17-year-old Jinn Ong explains the inquiry into the UK’s handling of COVID-19

culture

Is Hollywood saved now the writers’ strike has ended?

Strikes of actors and writers have cost the industry over $6 billion. After all the developments, many teenagers who dream of putting their stories on the big screens began to wonder: is entering the writing industry a good choice?

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin explores the aftermath of the writer’s strike

climate

Learning from Indigenous communities can drive sustainability amid the climate crisis

Indigenous communities make up only 6% of the global population but they conserve 80% of biodiversity. Sustainable practices and respect for the environment are built into their social doctrine which has been passed on for generations

Sanaa Pasha interviews climate activist Yusuf Baluch and Growing up Green founder Amy Campbell

climate

Police arrested 26 climate protestors for ‘serious disruption’ –- Thunberg among those charged

Among protestors stood 20 year-old Greta Thunberg who highlighted before her arrest that they “have no choice but to disrupt” because “our world is being swept away by greenwashing and lies”

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova reports on the Swedish activist’s legal trouble

opinion

Florida is in the middle of ‘Hurricane DeSantis’ but there will be a rainbow after the storm

Florida may serve as a global punchline, symbolizing a strained political atmosphere, internal divisions, and challenges to democratic values within the United States, but the state holds profound significance for the individuals who call it home

16 year-old Emily Dorman on Ron DeSantis’ triad

opinion

Unwritten Dreams. Do I stand a chance to break the generational wealth gap and live the American Dream?

Carved from my parents’ sacrifices, their hopes for a brighter future, and their resilience in the face of adversity, I was grappling with the complexities of “The American Dream” as I questioned whether it truly aligned with the narrative I was enveloped in

17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala analyzes her chances to make it in 21st century United States

creative writing

Dust Unto Dust. On my 50th birthday, the only sound from the Ferris wheel will be the dirge of rusty gears

Fifty years. A golden anniversary. A mere blink in the timeline. Before me looms the menacing road of another half-century, dotted with metallic towers that rise from the ground

16 year-old Justin Sau pictures the year 2057

climate

"We can drive systemic change" - Filmmaker urges youth to take action in climate crisis

A feature documentary in production, ‘1.5 Degrees of Peace’, aims to start conversations in the fields of climate justice, peace and disarmament through the power of storytelling

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews Kasha Slavner

culture

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour breaks all records. The phenomenon of the star explained

In the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, where stars are rising and falling in the blink of an eye, one name has consistently defied the odds: Taylor Swift. What is the secret behind a country girl who not only stays afloat but continues to be on top of one of the most competitive industries in the world?

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei on the origins of America’s superstar

politics

Presidential election showed how hard Singapore’s ‘balancing act’ is in midst of US-China tensions

Singapore’s ‘neutral’ geo-political stance between the United States and China has become increasingly precarious in the face of rising tensions between the two global giants and escalating Sino-US tensions

17 year-old Jinn Ong on Singapore’s repositioning in the Asia-Pacific theatre

economics

The economics behind the UK’s planned ‘crackdown’ on vaping

The number of children using vapes in the past three years has tripled prompting Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to promise action against vaping, which is to create the first ever ‘smoke-free generation’ in the UK by 2030

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev analyses economic implications of legal suppression of the vaping industry

science

The Thalidomide scandal. A history of greed and neglect that shaped contemporary clinical trials

Thalidomide was a tragedy that is often forgotten and a clear violation of human rights, but it shaped the strenuous clinical trials that take place today. Without the toll of Thalidomide, drug production may not be as safe as it is today

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna on the lesson from pharmaceutical scandal

politics

Kosovo War – understanding the unresolved conflict

The conflict that was supposed to be resolved decades ago is making headlines in world news again, with the media asking ‘Are Kosovo and Serbia on the brink of war?’

17 year-old Mykyta Yaremenko explains the failure of peace process in Kosovo

economics

How will the UK’s ageing population affect our wallets?

The ageing population will likely result in the decline of the UK’s active labour force. This will put greater pressure on the future working population – including today’s teenagers – to deliver the funds necessary for the public sector

17 year-old David Otegbola on the economic future of young people

economics

Market economy and school choice improve academic outcomes, so why don’t we learn from science?

Academic variation driven by wealth and access inequalities shapes the present of today’s students. The income gap between lower and upper-class families is one of the greatest predictors of academic outcomes

17 year-old Grace Minakowski was the runner-up for the Harbinger Prize in Economics

science

Glioblastoma. What’s being done about the cancer with over a 90% mortality rate?

Glioblastoma is a type of cancer which ravages the brain, causing cell death. With 12,000 people being diagnosed with glioblastoma every year, this is truly a cause worth fighting for

16 year-old Swara Kulkarni was the runner-up for the Harbinger Prize in Science

climate

2023 set another record in temperatures. How will the climate crisis impact the economy?

Climate change does not only affect the economy when disasters occur – it impacts the economic wellbeing of people around the world through hard-to-perceive destruction of infrastructure, disruption of global supply chains, and the effect on agriculture

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska on the cost of the warmest September on record

opinion

Denying treatment because women could get pregnant? That’s a new level of toxic absurdity

Women cannot be stripped of basic services, like healthcare, because of their so-called ‘function’, and the word ‘woman’ should not be synonymous with ‘mother’

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko speaks against curbing women’s rights in the US

economics

Will Sunak’s fight against a strained economy win over young people?

Despite an “alarming” unpopularity among young people, Sunak has tried to uphold his economic promises with the hope of influencing voters by alleviating economic burdens to improve the quality of life

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev breaks down the economic policies ahead of UK elections

war in ukraine

Ukrainian zoos are battling to care for animals amidst the ongoing war

Since September 2022, the Russian military has caused power outages all around the country by purposefully targeting the energy infrastructure of the country which have led to many animals dying in conservation

17 year-old Sofia Radysh reports on the plight of the animals in Ukrainian zoos

Rating:

culture

It’s Haunting. Killers Of The Flower Moon review

Released last week, ‘Killers Of The Flower Moon’ delivers an ultimate epic of love, betrayal, and the nature of evil – unveiling this dark, twisted chapter in American history

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin praises new film from Martin Scorsese

opinion

At 12, I promised myself a hysterectomy. That’s how ignorance of menstrual health tortures girls

Young girls like me will continue to suffer because periods are taboo and we are told period cramps are supposed to hurt. The pain of endometriosis is instead chalked up to female sensitivities, low pain tolerance, and the joys of womanhood

17 year-old Erin Walshaw was the runner-up in the Harbinger Prize in Reporting

human rights

History of Australia’s offshore detention camps makes me sickened by my country

Christmas Island is a pristine pocket of land in the Indian Ocean, just below Java, where you will find crystal clear waters, beautiful stretches of white sand beaches, heavenly weather and a long history of human rights violations

15 year-old Tanya Chi essay was the runner-up in the Harbinger Prize in Humanities

climate

Visiting Himalayan vineyards. ‘In a century, Bhutan may be the only winemaking country in the world’

Bhutan may change all we know about wine. Planted in 2022 in Southern Bhutan, Mike’s Gelephu vineyard is an experiment in ‘reverse cycle harvest’. It is an example of how sustainability can become the driving force for innovation and economic growth

18 year-old Diar Boranbayev interviews Bhutan’s first-ever winemaker

politics

Labour Party likely to lower voting age in the UK to 16 on election victory

If Labour’s goal was to be implemented, this would be the largest expansion of the voting franchise since 1969

16 year-old Jefferson He on UK suffrage

society

‘Deranged cultural standards’ - How Sri Lanka’s misogyny is impeding its economic recovery

McKinsey Global Institute estimates that advancing gender equality in Sri Lanka could add $64 billion to its GDP by 2025

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska analyses a negative feedback loop between inequality and poverty

opinion

Are they ‘women politicians’ or politicians? - the challenges women still face in global governance

As a young woman with an aspiration to join the political world in the future, I couldn’t believe the public impudence, the unacceptable behaviour one is signed up to tolerate

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the gender bias in politics

opinion

Why the hell is Holden Caulfield the most relatable character I’ve ever read about?

It is extremely hard to know exactly how we wish our lives to turn out at sixteen. Holden is a byword for this identity crisis, reflecting my experience having contradictory feelings running through at such a pace that I feel trapped and unable to process it all

16 year-old Maria Mitko watches her reflection in Salinger’s famous novel

society

‘Everyone needs hobbies’ - Afghan girls share what makes them happy

From sports to reading and writing, Afghan girls continue to develop themselves and look towards the future with ambition and hope

Four OXSFJ & LEARN students share their favourite hobbies

culture

‘When I am an old woman I shall wear purple, with a red hat that doesn’t go and doesn’t suit me’

The poem represents the freedom of being old and the message of seeing ageing as a positive experience – something to cherish – which has resonated with me since I first heard it at barely five years-old

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz wins the Harbinger Prize in Photography

science

Brains grown in a petri dish. On the potential of organoid intelligence

The human brain is the ultimate supercomputer. OI can unlock the mysteries behind cognitive maturation, neurological, and psychiatric disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia

17 year-old Inika Singh wins the Harbinger Prize in Science

economics

‘It’s like an addiction’ — American teenagers fall victim to online sports gambling apps

Whether through indirect or direct means, teenagers are being influenced to pursue online sports gambling. The rapidly growing industry is preying on those with underdeveloped minds, increasing profits to the detriment of future generations

17 year-old Arham Shah wins the Harbinger Prize in Economics

climate

Disappearing in the Pacific. Their islands are sinking, yet we can barely hear calls for help

In the heart of the Pacific Islands, a chorus of student voices resonates together to paint a vivid picture of hopes, concerns, and aspirations despite the nuanced, complex threat that they face

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang wins the Harbinger Prize in Reporting

society

Flowers for the Future enables Afghan students to “bloom”

Amidst challenges posed by the Taliban’s restrictions, the support from individuals around the world and organisations like FFF are “a source of inspiration”

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimanova interviews the student-run organisation that supports the ‘rights of students across the world to education’

society

From nature trips to shop opening: how Afghan girls spent summer holidays

Afghanistan does not only mean crises and restrictions. It is a country filled with mesmerising landmarks, historical monuments, nature and a vibrant culture

Five students of the OXSFJ LEARN Afghan project share their summer experiences

science

My 50th birthday: A world without food

A future where real food doesn’t exist anymore may sound like quite a bleak and dystopian future. But this is far closer than we think with the 26-year timer we find ourselves on

17 year-old Christian Yeung wins the Harbinger prize in Humanities

science

Bugs are friends, not foes. Historical neglect of US government to human-insect symbiosis

It is no exaggeration to say “insects make the world go round”. From pollination to nutrient recycling, to biological pest management, and even genetic research — without them, our ecosystem would not function. Insects provide the United States with over $57 billion yearly of ecological service, in terms of dung burial, pest prevention, and pollination.

17 year-old Anna Lovat won The Harbinger Prize 2023

opinion

Mass destruction of Ukrainian nature will have a huge impact on the future

The consequences of war have not only ruined lives and negatively impacted the mental health of Ukrainian civilians, but it will also result in long-term ecosphere damage

17 year-old Sofia Radysh interviews UAnimals on the environmental crisis

opinion

Ukraine’s leniency towards sexual assault is irreconcilable with our nation’s European aspirations

A recent crime in the Zakarpattya region of Ukraine has proven once again how prevalent the problem with punishment for sexual violence is in the Ukrainian legal system

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on misogyny embedded in Ukraine’s legal system

climate

Long-term recovery underway in the Mediterranean following widespread fires

With the elements of strong wind, high temperatures and trees, a rampage of wildfires formed in the Mediterranean in July. Italy, North Africa and Greece are now recovering from this disastrous fire

16 year-old Jefferson He speaks with affected locals

opinion

Trump administration disregard Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s last words

“My most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed” – the final words of Ruth Bader Ginsburg to her granddaughter, has seen the former justice’s worst fear brought into reality

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the notions of progress

sports

Why are more football stars making the move to Saudi Arabia?

While also stirring up controversy, the Saudi league has been growing at an insane rate and has attracted numerous big names, including the likes of Ronaldo

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain on the international transfer market

opinion

Dying languages: Cultures are being eradicated in silence

Language is often reduced to a tool for basic communication, neglecting its human and cultural significance. Global warming and urbanisation are forcing linguistically diverse communities to migrate, assimilate, and abandon their ancestral tongues

Sophie Yu on the fight to save forgotten languages

economics

Understanding Poland’s economic transformation would enable Sri Lanka to learn from Warsaw’s errors

Many experts fear that in light of the recent economic crisis, the Lankan government’s sole focus will be debt disposal, hence the introduction of reforms may occur in a haphazard way, jeopardising the country’s security

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska speaks with economic experts Marcin Zielinski, Professor Adam Bodnar, and Filip Konopczyński

Rating:

culture

Why was 'Secret Invasion' such a flop?

The biggest disappointment is that for a show with shape-shifting aliens it has absolutely no mystery, which is so needed here. ‘Secret Invasion’ does a lot of telling and not a lot of showing, which essentially comes back to its cheapness

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on the wasted potential of the Marvel star-studded series

human rights

Inside Greek refugee camp Ritsona’s mission to ‘safeguard human rights’

At Ritsona refugee camp, a group of asylum seekers gathered to share their stories about how they reached Greece, how the camp is supporting them, and the struggles they face which included frustrations with the asylum procedure

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova visits and speaks with members of Ritsona refugee camp

economics

How the UK Cost of Living Crisis is affecting migrants

Since 2021, the economic situation in the UK has started to worsen, and this has affected many people, both citizens and non-citizens. However, while the government is providing some support to British citizens, migrants are being overlooked

17 year-old Jakub Hejka interviews Polish migrants on the Immigration Health Surcharge

human rights

'Invisible to the Ukrainian legislation' - What it means to be queer in Ukraine

The question of LGBTQ+ rights in Ukraine is now more important than ever, as lots of these people are defending the country every day, and apart from that, are equally Ukrainian citizens who deserve to be recognized as such

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews Ukrainian legal activists Tania Kasian and Maxim Potapovych

politics

Ageism: How young MPs are battling for political recognition

In today’s society, their role is arguably not considered as inspirational as that of pop stars or maybe even athletes. But why not? Young MPs seem to have an even greater fight for this interest, and for recognition in the political sphere

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain on youth accessibility in UK politics

society

Meet nine Harbingers’ student journalists from Nepal’s ‘earthquake generation’

The people in Nepal are even better than the county’s stunning views. At the Mountain Children’s House, an orphanage of 32 minors, I spoke to young people who eagerly shared their bold hopes and dreams

16 year-old Jefferson He introduces the newest Harbingers' project

politics

The US 2024 election, explained

The US 2024 election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024. The winner will be inaugurated in January, 2025. As the presidential election day approaches, Harbingers Magazine takes a closer look

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek outlines all the important information you need to know

culture

How samurai traditions live on through Kendo - a sport rooted in ancient Japanese culture

“The cultural and ceremonial aspects of Kendo hold great importance. Kendo represents not only a sport or technique but also embodies a martial art rooted in rich history and tradition. It reflects the enduring spirit passed down through generations”

15 year-old Noah Saphier shares valuable lessons from Kato Sensei

culture

Contested artefacts from the British Museum: 7 things you need to know

In recent years, many countries where these artefacts originated have become more vocal in calling for their return, arguing that the objects were taken unethically and without consent

16 year-old Justin Sau outlines the appeals for repatriation

opinion

Universal higher education should be free. Here’s why

Education should not be privileged and only available to those that can afford it but to everyone. Access to higher education is a necessity not only for people but also for our economy to continue developing

17 year-old Jakub Hejka evaluates the wealth divide in higher education

climate

Greece on ‘high alert’ as country deals with aftermath of widespread wildfires

Wildfires in Rhodes led to a state of emergency on the island after relentless blazes in Greece started on July 17 and remained out of control for seven days, triggering large-scale evacuations

16 year-old Anastasiia Tkachuk covers the climate crisis in Greece

opinion

New ethics legislation on the US Supreme Court is critical to preserving the rule of law

Increasing transparency standards, strengthening the withdrawal process, and requiring Supreme Court justices to adhere to a binding code of conduct is a modest yet essential step to tackle corruption

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the vital regulations needed

opinion

Sri Lanka’s restructure of State-Owned Enterprises may pose a threat to the safety of the country

Following the 2022 bankruptcy, the Sri Lankan government has been implementing tough reforms to improve the economy. It appears as though the government is too focused on paying off debts to acknowledge the possibility of compromising safety

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska outlines deficiencies in the government’s decision-making

opinion

This year’s A-Level students are experiencing their greatest fear

I believe that teachers play a major role in a students education. With teachers in the UK going on a series of strikes, it impacts both their GCSE and A-Level results

16 year-old Jefferson He on the unfair change in grade boundaries

opinion

Titanic sub highlights need for more ocean exploration, not less

While many set their sights on the vast expanses of the Milky Way, we ignore our own precious little blue-green marble. Over 80% of the ocean has never been explored, mapped, or even seen

16 year-old Justin Sau on the untapped potential of our seas

opinion

To solve US alcoholism youth should be drinking sooner. Here’s why

From completely banning alcohol to lowering the legal drinking age to 18, to raising it again to 21, nothing seems to solve US alcoholism. I feel that creating any type of concrete barrier creates desire for youth, it creates a natural incentive to want it more

15 year-old Noah Saphier on the legal age of drinking

economics

Despite the highest inflation in years, Poland’s central bank keeps interest rates unchanged

The Narodowy Bank Polski (NBP) keeps its main interest rate at 6.75% despite double-digit inflation rates, prompting accusations that its decisions are a result of political influence

17 year-old Jakub Hejka looks at the current economic situation

opinion

Are vapes truly safe alternatives to cigarettes?

As a British teenager, I feel that I am constantly exposed to flashy and colourful images of e-cigarettes which is a new way to get young people addicted to nicotine

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain gives his opinion on the UK vape “epidemic”

opinion

Sexual assault should not have a timer

The whole case is another terrifying example of how the justice system worldwide fails victims of sexual assault once again and promotes inconsequential violence, as well as gaslighting the victims into silencing their stories and experiences

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko looks at a recent sexual assault case in Italy

economics

Volatility of Sri Lanka Rupee signals the economic crisis is not over for recently bankrupt country

In July, the LKR lost 6% of its value against the USD, and was the worst-performing currency in South-East Asia. The decline of LKR suggests that the economic crisis in the country that went bankrupt in 2022, is far from over

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska reports on the current economic situation in Sri Lanka

Rating:

culture

Oppenheimer review: Three-hour long biopic nothing short of mind-blowing

In unity with cinematography, sound design, and the soundtrack Nolan creates a horrifically immersive experience which controls every atom in the viewer’s body

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Nolan’s newest blockbuster

society

Women’s World Cup inspiring a new generation of girls into the sport

The Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand is on track to receive the highest attendance numbers for the tournament to date, with interest in the women’s game on the rise

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain covers the recent historic achievements of the sport

politics

Trump stays popular among Republicans despite felony charges

The US 2024 presidential elections are just around the corner and according to latest polls, the Former President Donald J Trump has been crushing his rising competitors

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek follows the US presidential election polls

sports

Is soccer taking over football? Messi’s success brings Inter Miami CF 13 million Instagram followers

In the past, MLS in the US has not been taken seriously in the football world. However, with the help of Messi bringing the media and football stars’ attention, change is seemingly on the horizon

15 year-old Noah Saphier on the rise of Major League Soccer

poetry

The literary, linguistic, and acoustic metamorphosis of translation

The process of translating poetry, as I have learned, is not merely using a dictionary to transcribe word-for-word from one language to another

17 year-old Sophie Elliot translates Mihály Babits’s ‘Magyar szonett az őszről’

climate

"Proportionate response to disastrous decision" - Greenpeace defends controversial protest

Activists from the campaign group climbed Rishi Sunak’s £2 million grade-II listed manor home in North Yorkshire on Thursday, August 3 and draped it with black cloth in protest of the PM’s plans to grant new licences for oil and gas extraction in the North Sea

16 year-old Justin Sau reports on the mixed response of climate action

science

NASA restores full contact with the lost Voyager 2

One of the objectives of both Voyager 1 and 2 is to ‘help scientists understand the very nature of energy and radiation in space’. With the continued close up study of space, it will help NASA and scientists to lower the risk factors in the future exploration in space

16 year-old Jefferson He reports on space exploration

science

IFSC weighs in on athlete eating disorder concerns following criticism

As a sport where you have to fight gravity, climbing has a high percentage of eating disorders. The IFSC has responded to climbers and former members of its medical committee speaking out about outdated health standards in competitive climbing

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the response from athletes and the medical community

opinion

Russian athletes are once again showing disrespect and officials are doing nothing about it

Disrespect towards Ukrainians from Russians is an everyday occurrence everywhere in the world and this time it was present at an international sports arena

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the politics of sportsmanship

human rights

Greek newspaper Migratory Birds helps refugee teenagers ‘fly high’

It was the initiative of 15 Afghan teenage girls and one Greek girl, who decided it was time for the refugee population to be truly heard. The project’s aim is to introduce young refugees to the principles of journalism and media while helping them to integrate into the Greek community

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews experts at youth magazine Migratory Birds

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culture

Barbie review: A must-watch, the allegedly ‘anti-men’ pink extravaganza will make you cry

Barbie is a must-watch for everyone, for young and for old, for women and men. It’s a beautiful story with a powerful message which will leave you thinking about your own experiences and understanding of the patriarchy and how it in fact isn’t about horses

17 year-old Sofia Radysh reviews the record-breaking box office film

society

Days that marked Afghan girls’ lives

There are days in everyone’s lives that they mark the most regardless of being good or bad. Five students of the journalism learning project at Harbingers’ Magazine – Shanhaza (17), Swita (16), Zainab (13), Naziya (13) and Zohra (17) – interviewed each other to find out about the days that impacted them the most

13-17 year-old OXSFJ and LEARN Afghan students share their life experiences

society

How eco-friendly art is empowering refugees in Greece to raise awareness of crises

Art has been used throughout history as a powerful tool that documents time and evokes emotions. On the Greek island of Lesvos, it is helping refugees raise awareness of their ongoing struggles

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova visits Humade Crafts Workshop

society

Actors joined striking writers to save Hollywood as we know it

With actors’ walk-outs – including at the notable premiere of Oppenheimer in London, where Cillian Murphy, Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, and Florence Pugh all left the theatre – and arrested productions, the entertainment industry is suffering colossal stock price losses

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports on the ongoing strike

culture

'Barbenheimer': is this the most important box office battle in a decade

Barbie is winning, and it is hardly surprising. After all, one film is about dealing with mortality, the sense of self purpose, and challenging American elites, and the other one is a historical thriller titled Oppenheimer

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on ‘counterprogramming’ movie marketing

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opinion

Rooney’s debut is a must-read for young people. Conversations with Friends review

Sally Rooney did a fantastic job levelling with the reader on many personal, almost gentle levels. This makes this book a must-read for young people – teenagers, those in their 20s or even 30s – who want a light read that also touches you and makes you ask questions you never thought would occur

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reminds of Rooney’s 2017 masterpiece

culture

Lewis Capaldi talks mental health after Glastonbury stage Tourette’s

The Someone You Loved artist faced a moment of crisis when performing at Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei on the lesson learnt at Glastonbury

society

Meet five Afghan girls who dream big for their future

After the Taliban seized power in August 2021, they banned girls from receiving a high school education. Despite these hardships, they are still determined to achieve their goals

13-17 year-old students of the OXSFJ & LEARN Afghan Project share their aspirations

society

Youth revolted in France after police shot 17 year-old boy

Over the course of last week, violent riots have wreaked havoc in Paris and its suburbs. The protesters burned cars, vandalised police stations and even let animals from the Paris Zoo out. Rioters have torched 2,000 vehicles since the start of the unrest

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports on French protests against police brutality

economics

Turkey’s economy: Could the re-election of Erdogan pose a threat?

Despite actions made for economic recovery, there are 4 reasons explaining why the prosperity of Turkey’s economy may be under threat

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev analyses the election repercussions

war in ukraine

“The numbers affected is catastrophic” - Impact of war on domestic animals in Ukraine

Around 300 hundred dogs died over the course of the month when they were left alone and the town was occupied by Russian military forces. Anastasiia shared with Harbingers the first-hand experiences of volunteering to help the animals still alive

17 year-old Sofia Radysh speaks with animal experts on the frontline

war in ukraine

What would happen if Russia tried to sabotage the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant?

The plant, the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, has been under Russian control since last year. According to Zelenskiy, Russian sabotage would result in a massive leakage of radioactive material that could reach neighbouring European countries

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the probability of nuclear disaster

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culture

A story that will keep you webbed to the seat. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse review

The sequel takes everything the audience loved about the first Spider-Verse movie and turns it up a notch – if not more

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe

opinion

Auto-tune overload. Aren’t we sacrificing musicality for so-called perfection?

Excessive use of auto-tune technology, especially when employed to distort the voice during a live performance, sparks debates about authenticity and emotional connection with the audience

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei takes the side of human imperfection

opinion

Unabomber exemplifies dangers of the far-right’s romanticisation of terrorists

On June 10, Theodore “Ted” Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, died in prison unleashing a social media storm of Unabomber fans wishing him to rest in peace, revealing to the world a harmful and dangerous personality cult

17 year-old Mykyta Yaremenko on Ted Kaczynski’s right-wing fandom

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culture

Rare glimpse into 21st century politics of sex and desire. The Right to Sex review

Amia Srinivasan’s collection of six nonfiction essays is an impressive debut. Writing about rape culture, student-professor relationships, prostitution, and pornography, Srinivasan is unafraid to linger near the precipice of taboo

17 year-old Sophie Elliott reviews the 2022 Orwell Prize shortlisted book

opinion

Do we prefer AI to shape future generations than to invest in human teachers?

While the global market, however, is leaning towards AI to shape the worldviews of our next generation over human teachers, this does not mean it is the right direction to be headed in

17 year-old Megan Lee follows the money in education

war in ukraine

Russian aggression will add another layer to Ukraine’s intergenerational trauma

It is impossible to understand the impact the current Russian aggression will have on Ukrainian society without taking into account the scars left by the Holodomor, World War 2, and Chornobyl

16-year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews mental health expert Lidiia Kasyanchuk

opinion

Animal testing made its way onto the big screen. It may be a sign of change

Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 3 is more than a great movie – it also offers insight into cruelty disguised as animal testing

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on animal testing

science

7 ways AI could benefit healthcare

The development of AI leads to lots of new and exciting possibilities of its applications in the modern world, including within healthcare. This article will outline 7 ways in which AI can benefit healthcare and the challenges associated with adopting it

18 year-old Grace Whitehouse outlines the practical uses of the technology

politics

US Supreme Court ruled against Alabama’s violation of the Black voters rights

In a surprise to many civil rights activists the US Supreme Court judges struck down the electoral map of the state of Alabama because it discriminated against Black voters by a five-to-four decision

17 year-old Mykyta Yaremenko reports on the Congress decision

visual arts

The art of ‘bad’ art: on Tracey Emin’s My Bed

In Tracey Emin’s My Bed, we realize that art is about expression, meaning, and the authenticity of human emotion. In using such an evocative installation, Emin not only illustrates the active and almost rebellious voice she takes on as an artist but emphasizes the beauty in chaos

17 year-old Megan Lee explores the art of confession

climate

COP28: Controversies surrounding the first ever global environmental stocktake

Months before the COP28 in the United Arab Emirates, the United Nations climate summit’s president is facing severe backlash over his background in the fossil fuel industry

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews expert concerns

war in ukraine

Eco-crisis unleashed. Consequences of Kakhovka Dam destruction trigger international investigation

On June 6, 2023, the Kakhovka Dam, a largest object of this type in Ukraine, was blown up. The explosion caused a massive catastrophe for the region’s residents and the environment, prompting an investigation from the International Criminal Court (ICC)

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei reports on the consequences of the disaster in Ukraine

opinion

Poles have had enough! Opposition leader Donald Tusk galvanises Poland’s fight for its democracy

The liberal-democratic Civic Coalition (KO), with the former president of the European Council, Donald Tusk, at the helm, has a chance to take power in Poland. Its electoral campaign was launched with an anti-government rally against the opposition

16 year-old Stanislaw Sankowski explains why 500,000 people marched through Warsaw

war in ukraine

How Russians are ‘liberating’ animals in Ukraine? Now they stole a tiger cub from a zoo in Mariupol

The Mariupol City Council reported that the cub had been living at the zoo. After his mother refused to feed him, he was looked after by a local shepherd dog. Occupants have now decided to relocate the cub to Moscow and train it for circus performances

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on animal welfare under attack

opinion

Should English Literature be replaced by Global Literature in schools?

In our increasingly diverse and globalized society, the Western canon seems not only restrictive but also exclusionary, calling into question whether the subject of English Literature should be replaced by Global Literature to best reflect the status quo at hand

Megan Lee considers the value behind teaching literature

economics

Maintain or abolish the Monarchy? The impact of the Royal Family on the economy

Debates over the continuation of the Royal Family have reawakened as taxpayers covered the £100 million being spent on the Coronation amid a cost of living crisis. Questions over the value of the Monarchy are once again at the forefront of people’s minds

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev speaks with an expert and reviews the figures of spending

culture

‘Quantity of good Ukrainian music has risen on an aspirational scale’

“We need to win the war and start rebuilding. Not only buildings and infrastructure but also our culture. Because there will come a moment of exhaustion after such a long fight, but we still need not forget that there is a future”

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews 19-year-old musician and producer Bogdan “SadSvit” Rozvadovskyi

human rights

Sudan’s military power struggle results in humanitarian catastrophe

Homes and other civilian infrastructure have been destroyed. UNHCR disclosed that “densely populated residential areas of Khartoum, Bahri, Omdurman and towns in Darfur and North Kordofan are facing electricity cuts, a lack of healthcare and basic services, while running out of food, water and medicines”

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova outlines the current situation in Sudan

economics

Single currency for East Africa: 7 things you need to know

A single African currency for East Africa is targeted to be instituted by the African Central Bank by 2028 to create an ‘economic and monetary union’. Harbingers’ Magazine has created this explainer to outline the details of the plans

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev breaks down the economic implications

politics

Former US president Donald Trump appears in court on 34 felony charges

The indictment against Trump is based on allegations that he violated state and federal campaign funding regulations. Observers disagree on whether Bragg has developed a viable case. Some believe Trump will get off the hook. Others believe the first prosecutor to indict a president has a fair probability of success

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek explains the ongoing case

society

Turkey - Syria earthquakes: How to help those in need

On Monday, February 6, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake started in southern and central Turkey with the epicentre in Gaziantep and western Syria. The earthquake, which was followed by several deadly aftershocks, resulted in a death toll of more than 50,000 and injured “thousands more”

Mariia Piltiai on the relief organisations to support

science

When the atmosphere fails. Is our civilisation at risk of being destroyed by an asteroid?

Humanity has many issues to worry about – climate change, nuclear escalation, scarce resources, and overpopulation, to list just a few. An asteroid attack is another worry, arguably the most abrupt and outside our control

16 year-old Riana Banga on planetary defence

opinion

The Economist’s surprisingly shallow attempt at cracking Gen-Z customers

The Economist’s analysis of young customers falls short of a genuine attempt to give a platform to Gen-Z. It feels like writers and editors have not taken the time to understand and embrace the complexity of the ‘new world of shopping’ they attempted to explain’

18 year-old Natasha Banga on the misaligned voice of youth

science

Chameleons are the most remarkable and amazing creatures. Here’s why

Chameleons are one of the most diverse and complex animals, with over 200 species and a range of adaptations

13 year-old Lidya Gaspar outlines the incredible traits of chameleons

society

Could Prince Harry’s history of drug use undermine his US visa?

US immigration law has harsh penalties for lying to immigration officials, including deportation and being barred from applying for citizenship. Nile Gardiner, a director of the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom said “this is a much bigger issue than Prince Harry. It is about enforcing immigration law and ensuring that no one is above the law. Prince Harry is simply the tip of the iceberg”

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the current status of the visa investigation

culture

Ukrainian music is much more than ‘sharovarshcyna’. Meet four ‘hidden gems’ bands and artists

The world is now starting to realise how unique and vast the Ukrainian culture is. With music being a major part of it, we, the Ukrainians hope that soon we will no longer be prisoners of the ‘traditional folk’ paradigm – that Ukrainian music ceases to be.

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko shares four up-and-coming Ukrainian artists

opinion

Unchangeable US police force is responsible for countless unjustified deadly arrests

In order to stop this cycle of repeated police brutality, the system must be changed. Acts, such as the George Floyd Justice in Policing bill should be passed and encouraged

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova looks at the consequences of excessive force in the case of Tyre Nichols

politics

Report revealed deeply concerning strip-search practice on thousands of children in England and Wales

The 363-page report, which looked at the standards of behaviour and culture of the Met, not only highlighted the ‘significant racial disproportionality’ in the strip searches of children by police but also revealed shocking cases within the police force

16 year-old Jinn Ong on the results of the Children’s Commissioner report

opinion

Navalny should not have been a winner of an Oscar award

This movie being recognised and celebrated is unacceptable, no matter how good the quality of it might be. Such distinguished organisations with influential platforms like the Academy should consider the context of the movie before representing it

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the political messages of award-winning films

science

ChatGPT: 7 things students need to know

The launch of ChatGPT has sparked numerous controversies, especially relating to its role in education. This article will explain all the details that students are curious about

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse outlines the AI technology

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culture

Babylon’s storytelling of early Hollywood failed to hit the mark - it instead made me gag

While I am not a particular fan of graphic and aggressive movies, I was excited for Babylon. So obviously, my expectations were high, and I decided to throw away my initial biases against Babylon and its gruesomeness. So what did this three-hour long extravaganza provide me with? Nothing but disappointment.

Sofia Radysh's take on the all-star Hollywood film Babylon

society

Places in Tanzania worth visiting for their beauty

In my different trips around Tanzania I have visited some worthwhile places, such as Fish Eagle Point and Mkomazi National Park

13 year-old Lidya Gasper shares stories from her trips around the country

war in ukraine

Ukrainian ‘grains of truth’. One year of farming under Russian missiles

As the Russian invasion of Ukraine hits its first anniversary, Ukrainian farmers are facing a new set of challenges for keeping the title of the ‘breadbasket of the world’

Sophie Abromaviciute on the impact the war has on Ukrainian agriculture

opinion

What exactly is Justice? The flawed concept behind the death penalty in the US

Organisations such as the Innocence Project work to liberate the innocent, avoid wrongful sentences, and establish systems of justice that are fair, humane, and impartial for all. There have already been 375 cases of exoneration in the US due to new DNA testing, including 21 people serving on death row.

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the importance of re-examination of evidence

visual arts

How political art is used to influence people

Art, as a reflection of an artist’s view of the world, is influenced by the events happening around, including politics and wars. And just like art, propaganda is also influenced by them. Propaganda, as it is known, is the dissemination of information to influence public opinion

16 year-old Kateryna Kalyniuk outlines the history of propaganda

human rights

The fight for trans rights in the UK continues

The Scottish bill aimed to reform gender recognition guidelines got vetoed but the UK government. In response to the UK’s intervention, Stonewall, a British charity that supports LGBTQ+ youth throughout the United Kingdom, said: “These are not the actions of a government that can stand on the international stage as a credible defender of LGBTQ+ rights.”

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports the current policy on gender recognition

climate

UN reached an agreement to protect 30 percent of high seas. Talks took almost 20 years

The new treaty includes territory protective measures on marine reserves and environmental impact assessments concerning human activity on the high seas, which the UN immediately described as ‘historic’. The new convention, however, has yet to be formally adopted and ratified by at least sixty states in order to come into force.

17 year-old Flora Lodd reports on breaking climate news

economics

The cost of living crisis: Financial impact on young people

The cost of living crisis has caused young people to be financially disadvantaged, with the ongoing situation set to deteriorate in the coming months

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev on the long-term economic consequences to youth

culture

Are the Peranakans a part of Singapore’s past or a heritage shaping my life choices?

As I deepened my research into Peranakans, I began to realise that my ancestors far exceed their reputation as creators of imaginative cuisine and eclectic architecture. In fact, the culture not only shapes the Singapore we see today but has largely influenced the choices I have made in life

16 year-old Jinn Ong inquires whether and how it is possible to be Peranakan in the 21st century

human rights

‘Girls go missing, schools are closed down, teachers persecuted’. Fight for education in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan

Pashtana Dorani is the founder of an organisation running ‘illegal’ underground schools for girls in Afghanistan. She knows first-hand the struggles girls and those teaching them face since the US and their allies withdrew and the Taliban regained control of the country

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews Afghan human rights activist

science

The maths of the COVID-19 era. The pandemic told in four equations

A difference of R, as little as one, has dramatic effects on the number of those infected within a population which without intervention would continue to increase at a rapid rate thus resulting in increased numbers of deaths

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse uses her own calculations to explain COVID-19 with maths

opinion

‘Know your DNA’ databases could fall into the wrong hands. Policymakers should regulate it

Even with all precautions employed, there is always a chance of getting hacked. Nothing indicates that ancestry DNA databases store personal data in any different place than the information about one’s DNA

18 year-old Gleb Mishin explains the cybersecurity dangers behind DNA testing

climate

The sixth mass extinction. These five species were recently declared extinct

Currently 28% of all assessed species on earth – more than 42,100 out of 150,388 – are endangered, according to the Red List of Threatened Species, edited by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

17 year-old Flora Lodd on the rapid decline in biodiversity

opinion

Lessons have not been learnt, international law is not stopping Russia

The notions of genocide and crimes against humanity are two essential building blocks for international law and vital parts of the efforts to protect human rights. In his 2016 book East West Street, British writer and lawyer Philippe Sands explains the origins of these notions

Aleksandra Lasek on the constraints of the international criminal law system

society

The Cost of Living Crisis: Concern over rise in abandoned pets

The cost of living crisis not only impacts individuals, but also rescue centres and the lives of volunteers, who are relied heavily on to keep centres running

Sofia Radysh investigates animal welfare during the UK cost of living crisis

war in ukraine

The secret price of the war in Ukraine

As a Ukrainian and representative of the young generation, I am worried about the price my country pays for the current war not only in the matter of sacred lives but also nature. Ecology might seem insignificant in comparison to the scale of human tragedies that are happening right now, but isn’t ecology also a matter of saving lives?

Maria Rybak speaks to experts on the ecological situation in Ukraine during war

culture

During a pandemic-haunted summer, I discovered a million-word long story and joined the fanfiction faction

Has finishing a good story ever left you feeling empty? As if nothing could ever come close to the experience of living, however briefly, inside the tale? You sit there, thinking of all the lost possibilities, the plotlines that were not explored, the what-ifs. What if this character survived? What if that character were born into an entirely different world?

18 year-old Zachary Górka explains the phenomenon of fanfiction literature

culture

Regardless of the production, beauty overrules inequity. On religion and ethics in Puccini's Tosca

“The arch of the whole opera questions what religion, spirituality and Catholic hypocrisy are,” said Michael Gieleta when on the opening night, I spoke to him about his production’s interpretation of Tosca’s religious themes. “This concerns Tosca herself, who drew moral superiority from murdering Scarpia and took her own life – two cardinal sins according to the Catholic Church teachings.”

Sophie Elliott investigates the famous opera

opinion

Italy’s direct help for Ukrainian refugees is rooted in its EU membership

A question arises: does Italy have double standards and treat people differently depending on where they come from? Or is there a reasonable explanation for the difference in attitudes towards the two groups of refugees?

17 year-old Marco Morchio on difference in Italy's approach to conflicts in Syria and Ukraine

visual arts

(Un)Open art. Why is modern art so intimidating?

The feeling of misunderstanding art usually evolves from a lack of curated education. But if art is supposed to be free, should education truly play a crucial role in enjoying it?

Maria Chernova shares her opinion on the openness of art and closedness of art recipients.

opinion

Young people will pay the price for Putin’s push to re-enact the Cold War

Restoration of the Cold War is the last thing we need in the face of the climate crisis. Now more than ever, what we need is more cooperation between countries

16 year-old Sufiya Suleimenova explores the NATO expansion and climate change concerns

history

Art of forgetting and remembering. On Lithuania's path to the commemoration of Holocaust victims

Memory is by no means neutral, and the pain of it demands decision. To what extent should we remember at all? What does it mean to remember rightly? Is the idea of memory even possible?

17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on relations between art and history

opinion

Cold Hard Cash, or Change Agent? Charities and the For-Profit Revenue Model

In the world of charitable giving, profit is a dirty word. Most charities rely heavily on donations as their primary source of income. Charities and businesses are divided, not only by their aims, but their revenue streams. Yet, in the bustling city of Kathmandu, I came to question the conviction of this dichotomy

Dylan Yip on incorporating business practice into charity

war in ukraine

‘It feels like I am living someone else’s life’, says Viktoriya, teenage refugee from Ukraine

When the war started, I felt confident and fearless. I believe because we had to move fast and think fast, my adrenaline was boosted, and this made me experience confidence. Over time, I calmed down and processed the situation. As I realised that my life was not stable anymore, my home was not safe, a feeling of fear started to develop

17 year-old Viktoriya Lysenko is interviewed by HRB's Italy correspodent Marco Morchio

opinion

Standing by Mahsa Amini. Iran’s rise against oppression is yet another youth’s call for change

The Iranian theocracy is only a particularly outrageous, outdated, and brutal example which stands against the background of many different governments facing increasing scrutiny from their young citizens

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the necessity of support for the Iranian protesters

war in ukraine

How war affected young Ukrainians - and what you can do about it?

I know that our stories might seem bizarre, scary, and unrelatable. But everyone can try to understand and relate. And everyone can help – even other young people, and teenagers from around the globe. Why? To support those in need

Maria Rybak shows how the war has influenced lives of young Ukrainians and how powerful world-wide support is

opinion

Volunteering at KL Plaszow Museum gave me a chance to fight the Nazi dehumanisation

To many, the concentration camp in Plaszow remains an unknown piece of history. A mere nine-person team at the KL Plaszow Museum and Memorial Site are working to change that. While I had the privilege of being the museum’s first volunteer, the KL Plaszow team hopes to recruit more as they continue working towards their opening in 2025

17 year-old Jonathan Wong on the meaning of voluntary work

economics

Zambia’s efforts to prevent famine and poverty with organic farming

Those at the Kasisi Agricultural Training Centre (KATC) recognised the long list of problems arising from chemical farming, so the organisation changed to organic farming in the mid-1980s to promote a healthier, more sustainable way of living. The main focus of KATC’s work is to train farmers and government agents in the basics of organic farming.

17 year-old Maksymilian Sinczak on the efforts to promote sustainable agriculture in Zambia

culture

The Witcher - a feminist manifesto or a misogynistic tale?

Sapkowski’s saga is not only a fantasy tale – it is also a social commentary. That’s why the TV adaptation has brought into the limelight various types of discrimination, prejudice, and hate-rooted violence

Aleksandra Lasek inquires into the success of Yennefer of Vengerberg as a feminist role model

war in ukraine

How jokes on TikTok help Ukrainians

Even during the war, people of different ages can still have a sense of humour and make jokes – which is an essential part of Ukrainian culture

Maria Chernova discusses how jokes on TikTok are helping her and other Ukrainians during the war

history

Herbal Insurgency: Wielding Knowledge to Heal and Harm Under Southern Enslavement

Through their knowledge of healing and harming, enslaved people were able to create small but vital spaces of healing and alternative power within the totalizing structures of Southern enslavement laws

William Derek Pacini examines the history of herbal expertise as a form of resistance and a means to freedom

history

Art of humanity. Why Lithuanian Jews took part in the fight against apartheid in South Africa

Once kindness becomes prevalent, it appears to be spreading. Human relations develop as we experience the inevitability of life – whether it is peace or war, core human values remain the same. A formation of a crystal – I think of an artwork I saw in Kaunas, depicting the bonding of ions and atoms which make the crystal grow – is parallel to how human relations develop.

17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on the lesson from an art festival in Kaunas, Lithuania

opinion

The Cupping Room

With the beans right in front of me, I could almost taste the coffee. The sweet and the tangy, the heavy notes and light texture barraging my nose. Tamie described to us the small yet complicated process of coffee roasting

16 year-old Christian Yeung takes a first step into the world of coffee culture, attending a roasting session at The Cupping Room

politics

Another Generation of War in Armenia. Living Everyday to the Fullest

In my village, we can hear any movements in the Azerbaijani military position. Such a close presence of the adversary army has negatively affected the mental state of the villagers, especially the young

Syuzanna Gyumshudyan examines the mental health of her peers two years after the bloody war over Nagorno Karabakh

culture

INO’s Tosca: the aesthetics of agency

Tosca offers a compelling evaluation of the complexities of female agency. She is an immensely complicated character—both pious and charitable, but also jealous, impetuous, passionate, and artistic

16 year-old Sophie Elliott analyses the Irish National Opera’s performance of Tosca with the backdrop of its political roots

history

A Plague Constant: Disease and Conspiracy in the Early Modern Period and Today

Today, as during the Great Plague of London, some of those holding office have put forward questionable remedies said to be more effective than mainstream treatments

Zachary Górka considers the similarities in public reaction and conspiracy between COVID-19 and the Great Plague of London, almost 400 years apart

war in ukraine

‘An eye-opening experience’. Diary of a volunteer helping refugees at the Polish-Ukrainian border

When I arrived in Przemysl, a quaint little town on the Polish-Ukrainian border, I did not know what to expect. I wanted to provide help in any way I could, although I thought my lack of a shared language with the Ukrainians would largely limit my role

17 year-old Jonathan Wong about his time volunteering in Przemysl

war in ukraine

The voice of fashion stands in solidarity with Ukraine

As we say in Ukraine: “everything will be Ukraine!”. And if so, everything and everyone – including the fashion industry – must admit its political side

Maria Rybak describes how the fashion industry responded to the war in Ukraine

war in ukraine

Can we avoid ecological mistakes while rebuilding Ukrainian housing after the war?

One of the most pressing problems after the war will be housing. So the big question is: how can we reshape the way we think about housing architecture to make it work quickly and at the same time according to climate changes?

Maria Chernova analyses the best ecological solutions for rebuilding Ukrainian housing

politics

Trump and Johnson: the parallels between their populism and influence

Amongst all their similarities and differences, Trump and Johnson still command a large following. This following can become so loyal, that they are often given near God-like status and threaten to be above the law

Isaac Kadas compares the former leaders current grip to power

war in ukraine

Norman Davies: In 1919, Soviet invasion bolstered Polish national identity. Now it happens in Ukraine

“In 1920, nobody, no experts, no generals gave Poland a chance. In February, no experts gave Ukrainians much of a chance. The Ukrainians captured Russian tanks where the men were dressed in parade uniforms”

An interview by 18 year-old Jeremi Kulczyk-Lubomirski and 16 year-old Maciej Cebula

culture

Bat girls for life? — Nothing about Batgirl said ‘cancel worthy’

Movies are not viewed as a piece of art anymore, they are investment assets. If something doesn’t work out they can simply be dumped

16 year-old Sofia Radysh reports on what Batgirl’s cancellation could mean for the film industry

science

‘Transforming healthcare’ - How AI is helping save lives

AI is able to not only speed up the process of diagnoses, but also procure the healthcare system with higher quality and more precise results

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews the AI specialists behind comprehensive stroke imaging solution

climate

Oxford suffers from extreme heatwave

“It’s not fake. The pond just evaporated. It’s a scene of devastation. The water levels in reservoirs are decreasing, but this [pond] people can actually see”

16 year-old Sofia Radysh inquires into Oxonian drought amid the amber heatwave warning

politics

Explainer: How does the Tory leadership election work?

Following the UK prime minister Boris Johnson’s resignation, the conservative party is in the process of electing its newest leader

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse outlines the Conservative election race in the UK

sports

United shock, Jesus to flourish under Arteta

Anticipation for the Premier League has now kicked off, with devoted fans eager to find out how their team will do this season

16 year-old Timur Boranbayev gives his predictions for the upcoming Premiership season

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culture

Ersatz Austen of cheap laughs and romance. Persuasion review

The greatest failing of Netflix’s film is that it neither commits to being a faithful adaptation of Austen’s regency, nor a modern rendering loosely based on original content

16 year-old Sophie Elliott reviews streaming giant's take on Austen’s classic novel

opinion

Are young people the biggest losers of the UK Conservative race?

Truss believes in spending today and paying it back later. From our young perspective, this benefits the Boomer Generation who will have lower income tax and soon go into retirement, whilst the working population of Millennials and Gen Z will have to pay the price

19 year-old Isaac Kadas explains how the Tory leadership race harms the future of those young today

sports

Canada takes gold in beach volleyball at the Commonwealth Games

“This holds a lot of weight because it has been four years since our last one and a lot can change – a lot of teams have improved,” said Humana-Paredes following the match

Grace Whitehouse reports on the women’s gold and bronze medal matches at the Birmingham final

opinion

Women’s Euro 2022, a success and an inspiration to the female youth

It is very refreshing to see how female sport is gaining more recognition and the respect it deserves. Women’s football is the fastest growing sport in the UK, and it will be interesting to see how female athletes and sport will develop over the next decade

Timur and Sofiya report on public opinions towards Lionesses’ win in the final

opinion

I doubt that Liz Truss will make girls’ lives better. Here’s why

If elected she has the capabilities to make significant headway in the progression of women’s rights, however based on her history of ineffectual action, it is unlikely for her to make tangible change within the UK

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse considers how Women’s rights in Britain will be harmed under Liz Truss leadership

opinion

Feminism after the girlboss: anxiety of the bimbo

Bimboism claims to be a leftist-adjacent, anti-capitalist, pro-sex work, pro-LGBTQ feminist movement which attracts significant controversy on TikTok

Sophie Elliott explains ‘bimbo Tok’ in the context of modern feminism

opinion

Cost of a trendy pup; the flat-faced issue explained

Humanity has been playing god and creating new breeds for a long time now, and the moment to take responsibility has arrived

16 year-old Sofia Radysh investigates the problems of Brachycephalic dogs

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culture

A mirror to Britain’s homophobia. Joe Lycett: More, More, More! review

While this show’s comedy is structured to identify and poke fun at British conservative society, it is done so in a cheerful and carefree way which prevents the jokes from being destructive in any way

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse reviews Joe Lycett’s touring show

culture

Your first lesson in Swahili

My first language is Swahili – and today I will share with you some basic words of this language.

14 year-old Lydia Gaspar introduces her native language

war in ukraine

War in Ukraine from the inside

My life, just like the life of other Ukrainians, has been divided into “before” and “after”. Before the 24th of February, I couldn’t believe that in the twenty-first century people would be capable of starting an actual war

16 year-old Diana Kuksova reveals how it is to live as a teenager during war

opinion

It is teenage girls who will be affected the most by abortion bans in the US

The Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case, which removed the right for abortion in the US was done by a group which is 80 percent male, 80 percent white and 100 percent in their 50s or older. The societal group which is going to be affected by the change, is the complete opposite.

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the implications of overturning Roe vs Wade

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culture

Invest in good mathematicians. Weapons of Math Destruction review

Ill-conceived algorithms are strengthening injustice, inequality and prejudice across law enforcement, education, labour, banking and housing.

Natasha Banga reviews Cathy O’Neil’s book

politics

Medicare for All: a debate

Seeing a million citizens die due to the COVID-19 pandemic, along with an economic crash and rising unemployment, just highlights the importance of the Medicare for All debate. Could this program transform our healthcare system for the better – or would it further harm our economy?

Dylan Yip lays out opposing stances on the Medicare for All debate in the United States.

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culture

A thought-provoking experience. For better or worse. How to Blow Up a Pipeline review

In his 2020 book a leading Swedish climate activist since the 1990s condemns the nonviolent methods mobilised in the climate movement by claiming they only promote passivity—instead, offering us a historical argument, Malm persuasively argues for a more aggressive and confrontational approach.

Sophie Elliott reviews Andreas Malm’s How to Blow Up a Pipeline

society

‘Minimum inclusion gives huge joy’, says Sylwia, mother to a 14-year-old with autism

It is impossible to predict Julia’s future but the outlook is grim. The state does not support centers that educate neurodivergent young adults as almost all types of support for adults with disabilities are scrapped by austerity measures.

Eva Smolokovskaya inquires into Poland’s non-existent system to include people with disabilities within society

war in ukraine

Farming on the battlefield. The reality behind Ukraine’s efforts to put food on our tables

Undoubtedly, the world hunger problem will be further exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. With bombs landing in fields, farmers joining the military, fuel, seed, and fertilizer shortages, alongside the blocking of ports in the Black Sea by Russian fleets and mines, UNICEF expects the number of hungry children to double as a result of Putin’s war.

Sophie Abromaviciute on how the Russian aggression against Ukraine will result in global famine

politics

Orbán’s comfortable win depicts how Hungary went further East than anyone in the West hoped

Had Orbán lost, there would have been global ramifications – but the same could be said after his victory. Despite recent defeats and being on the back foot, global populism is still alive and has a proven stronghold in Hungary, where one of its principal flagbearers is entrenched. Orbán’s victory shows that if run effectively enough, autocratic governments are very difficult to be unseated.

Isaac Kadas on Hungary’s eastbound journey

politics

There is a global angle to the election in Hungary

Hungary is a nation less than 10 million strong, yet today’s election could unlock the global battle against nationalist populism.

Isaac Kadas explains the battle for populists' stronghold

war in ukraine

In Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I cannot help but see my two sister-nations at war

In Kazakhstan, like in any other former Soviet republic, there is a strong feeling that the Ukrainian struggle against Russia is going to define our fate as well, no matter which way it goes

Ilya Kan on the ripples Putin’s war sent across the former Soviet Union

war in ukraine

How war in Ukraine has crept into young Londoners’ minds

We, the youth, are rapidly developing the knowledge, understanding, and vocabulary that makes us capable of talking about the war in Ukraine.

Natasha Banga about the knowledge many hoped never to need

war in ukraine

Anti- or pro-Western, Hungarians look at Ukraine through the lens of their troubled history

If it would be at all imaginable for Moscow to have an ally for its plans to redraw borders in Central Europe, Viktor Orbán would be the person to probe – to the horror of a strong pro-Western minority and the majority of Hungary’s youth.

Isaac Kadas explains how century-old Trianon treaty shapes Budapest’s relationship with Moscow

society

School Survey: 47% of students follow Russia’s invasion on Ukraine through social media

Without a strong foundation on the historical context of the invasion, many younger individuals may be at a higher risk of being influenced into holding certain opinions. This is further exacerbated by acquiring the majority of their information through social media, which is littered with difficult to avoid misinformation.

Daria Badger and Noor Bejjani research into how young people source information

economics

Not metaverse, but Apple’s privacy policy change drove Facebook’s devaluation

On February 3rd, Facebook’s stock price at NASDAQ declined by 26%. Over the last 6 months in total, it has amounted to a 46% price drop. Essentially, almost half of Facebook’s value has been erased within weeks. But why?

Ilya Kan explains the paradox behind Facebook’s plummeting stocks

war in ukraine

"We don’t want this war". The invasion of Ukraine is Putin’s, not Russians’ doing

In the midst of this conflict, the international community must remain aware of the vital distinction between Russians, and those in power in Russia. In the context of the war, the two have little to nothing in common.

Mary Stabinska about the consequences of power unchecked

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culture

Entertaining and engaging, yet with a moral dilemma. The Cheese and the Worms review

You may rightfully be thinking, “Cheese? Worms? Millers? Sixteenth-century? Really?” I also have little interest in the Fruili region of Italy, especially in the 1500s – yet this book had me hooked from the very first page.

Marsi Hadijeva revisits Carlo Ginzburg’s 1976 classic

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culture

Exceptional writing, but stories are hit or miss. On A Registry of My Passage Upon the Earth

Two years since the publication of his last book, The Winter Soldier, psychiatrist Daniel Mason returns with his latest collection of human survival stories.

Noemi Elliott reviews a collection of short stories

war in ukraine

Six days ago, the war started. Ukraine and Russia, the two of my homelands

Ми більше не боїмося Хоча страшно Але не до страху…

Нам уже не страшно Хотя страшно Но не до страха…

We’re not scared Although we are just cannot afford to…

Eva Smolokovskaya on anger and powerlessness

politics

Colston Four trial and the blunder of Police and Crime Bill reflect a divide in Britain

The ideological profile of the current British government – labelled as Johnsonism, in resemblance to Trumpism – embodies the belief that protest is something undesirable

Isaac Kadas examines why Johnsonism is so afraid of “noisy” protests

science

With Mosquirix approved by WHO, hopes are high for a breakthrough in fight against Malaria

Despite its efficacy at just below 46%, Masquirix may prevent 4.3 million cases of malaria and 22,000 deaths in children younger than five annually

Noor Bejjani explains the difficulties and rewards behind the new vaccine against malaria

creative writing

Do not dream, because the second the dream ends...

I saw the big, white letters on the top of my phone screen, right next to the Outlook logo. “Application Outcome” I read and took a deep breath in.It’s here, my Cambridge decision.

Mary Stabińska on what it feels like to open a very important letter

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culture

Spot-on image of how Gen Z tends to cope by taking everything as a joke. Don’t look up review

The planet-killing comet is quite obviously today’s global warming climate crisis. The scientific reasoning is there, the facts are there, the evidence is there – and yet, many still refuse to believe in this pressing issue.

Sofiya Suleimenova reviews Adam McKay’s political satire

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culture

A delightful read for any Austen fan. Jane Austen, Early and Late review

The degree of insight makes a joy solely reserved for Austen fans. Others would likely find the parallels between Northanger Abbey and Persuasion tiresome – although I must confess I never knew that Northanger Abbey contains 24 instances of “persuasion,” only eight fewer than the 32 in Persuasion!

Noemi Elliott reviews Freya Johnston’s book

culture

‘Pay me the respect due’. Sidney Poitier as a symbol of perseverance

Barack Obama, who awarded Poiter the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, wrote: “Through his groundbreaking roles and singular talent, Sidney Poitier epitomised dignity and grace, revealing the power of movies to bring us closer together. He also opened doors for a generation of actors.”

Sofiya Suleimenova reflects on ethics lessons from the late American movie giant

society

Religious beliefs are not a sufficient reason to seek vaccine exemption

82% of American Catholics have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine while only 57% of Evangelical Protestants did the same.

Marsi Hadjieva explains twisted relations between religion and jabs

poetry

Darkness, a poem Wisława Szymborska did not write

A pastiche is a work of art that aims to imitate the style of another work or artist. It is a device regularly used in many different mediums, including literature, music, and visual art. For example, Shakespeare’s famous balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet has been a theme for endless pastiches – it was also arguably the inspiration for the happy ending scene in Pretty Woman.

Daria Badger interviews Polish pastiche poetry writer Grzegorz Uzdański - and translates one of his works to English

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culture

Every bit as real that the reader hopes the story were pure fiction. The Fortune Men review

Nearing the 70th anniversary of the court murder commited in Wales, we realize that not much has changed these past decades.

Noemi Elliott reviews Nadifa Mohamed’s novel

politics

With the notion of progress gone, gender equality is slowly dying in Poland

Since 2015, the ruling Law and Justice party has rejected the notion of progress which had characterised the Second Republic of Poland – despite the fact that it is the same Second Republic that the same Law and Justice politicians consider to be the embodiment of ideal Polish society.

Aleksandra Lasek on Poland's nationalists' lack of political consistency

society

Trailblazer. How Yip Pin Xiu’s swimming career broke the silence on disability in Singapore

Things are changing, and they are changing fast. Arguably, the rise of Singaporean Paralympic champions has played the most imperative role in catalysing the change of societal attitudes towards people with disabilities. Yip Pin Xiu stands out of this group – in order to recognise her and her feats, Singapore had to finally look in the mirror.

Jinn Ong portraits Singapore's most decorated Paralympian

economics

Fallout of the pandemic is the first time Gen Z experiences inflation

Boiled down to its essence, inflation is a process of rising prices – or, to be more precise, the devaluation of money. If inflation is at 5% (5.1% is the current level of inflation in the United Kingdom) prices are 5% higher than a year ago – so, on average, the same thing that used to cost £100 is now priced at about £105

Natasha Banga explains the economic phenomenon Gen Z has not yet had the chance to experience - and what The Old Lady of Threadneedle Street has to do with it.

society

Victims of Fukushima still pay for failures of Japan’s government

Residents of Fukushima were left jobless, homeless and hopeless after most were unable to find work. Many women were unable to wed or have children since they were regarded as ‘tainted’, and relocated children were being shunned by peers at school.

Jinn Ong pictures a decade of injustice after the preventable meltdown at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.

human rights

'Even if refugees are lured by Belarus, it is not a reason for Poland to violate international law'

“From the legal point of view, the problem is that the practice of pushbacks is illegal. When the person appears on the Polish territory and applies for asylum, then the asylum application should be processed and the person should have the right to stay in Poland until the final decision is reached.”

Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights’ lawyer Jacek Bialas in conversation with Levon Nurijanyan explains why Poland's push-backs of migrants are illegal

opinion

The @feminist Instagram account took femvertising to the next level

When I look for activism content, I don’t wish to be discreetly tricked into buying a t-shirt, no matter how sustainable it is or what share of the profit goes to good causes.

Eva Smolokovskaya questions the ethics of the @feminist, a social media account with 6.4 million followers

sports

How a Chinese boy Who’d Never Heard of Football Fell in Love with the Sport

During Wolcott’s first possession, we completely locked them up. I was so focused that all of a sudden it was like I knew how to play football. I was breaking ankles the whole first half, and I didn’t drop a single ball.

Dylan Yip reflects on the oddly shaped ball which put the team together at Milton Academy

science

It was research on light that enabled us to comprehend that time is elastic

Thanks to Albert Einstein, time and space began to be considered non-invariables – but to prove his theory, the famous scientist needed something that moved really fast.

Aleksy Chwedczuk explains how the whole idea of inevitability took a sudden turn.

poetry

The Sublime

The mass of sharp edges and misty summits / stands cold, gazing at me / I can see it frown …

A poem by Mary Stabinska

climate

The scared sitters, a new formation in the environmental struggle

A fiery-haired girl with porcelain skin sits in the middle of a busy street, looking at something beyond the border of the picture.

Mary Stabinska studies the politics and ethics of desperation.

science

What ‘is’ dark energy and matter, the 95 percent of the Universe we know nothing about?

In 1929, when Edwin Hubble proved that the universe is expanding, an important question arose: o what will the Apocalypse look like then?

Aleksy Chwedczuk on the opening chapter of the neWhat ‘is’ dark energy and matter, the 95 percent of the Universe we know nothing about?xt great discovery in the history of Physics.

climate

Caroline Hickman: Anxiety and anger are psychologically healthy responses to climate crisis

The UK-based philosopher, psychotherapist and researcher has made it her mission to help people cope with denial, depression, anger and powerlessness which so many face because of the climate crisis.

She sat with Eva Smolokovskaya to explain what she has learned over the last two decades.

society

At Ritsona Camp it has been three years since child refugee Leila was last inside a classroom

There is no reason for the refugee children in Europe to be denied an effective and equal education.

Polina Aksenenko and Parwana Amiri about the consequences of spending on walls instead of buses at Ritsona Camp in Greece.

science

What would it mean if there was life on Venus?

It only makes sense for some life to exist somewhere out there. A recent research paper has shifted the spotlight to our sister planet.

Aleksy Chwedczuk reports on what may be hidden in the atmosphere of Venus.

culture

Nature and Privation in Three Romani Poets

The generation born after the war was raised amidst the turmoil of social transformation, evolving governmental edicts, and the challenges of dwelling among often unwelcoming ethnic Hungarians. The poetry of these postwar Roma poets reflects these challenges.

Noemi Elliot on Roma poets and their artistic sensibilities

creative writing

Quartz Lamps and Quarantines

The elevator stopped on the third floor, and the nurse led me out into the dark hallway. After a couple of turns we approached a glass door marked with red letters reading “Quarantine Zone!” The letters were reversed. I was inside of the hospital now – I was what the bold red letters warned outsiders about. The nurse stopped and turned to face me.

Ilya Kan on experience of quarantine.

opinion

For equality’s sake, Paralympics and Olympics should be united

Although it is hard to imagine, there was also a time when women were not included in the Olympics – yet, in 2021 we do not hold separate games for male and female athletes.

Jinn Ong argues for one Games for all athletes

politics

What I Heard About Covid-19

I heard Trump’s term in office had coincided with more than 25 million confirmed coronavirus cases, over 400,000 of which resulted in fatalities.

Daria Badger on fading memories

science

COVID-19 boosted research in mRNA vaccines. This technology may be a game-changer

With enough funding and brainpower, MRNA technology is capable of shortening the amount of time needed for vaccine development and manufacturing so significantly that it may be close to real-time vaccination.

Noor Bejjani explores the implications of the coronavirus-related leap in vaccination science

politics

Populism 2.0. Why Johnson’s populism survived COVID-19 while Trump’s failed

The pandemic revealed differences between dishevelled, right-wing politicians who were previously very difficult to be distinguished.

Levon Nurijanyan analyses a new strain of populism

society

Paralympic medalist Theresa Goh: ‘I was thinking: do I have to quit swimming and find a job?’

“I have seen a lot of change. Previously, newspapers used to place athletes with disabilities in the home section, now they are actually placing us in the sports section.”

Jinn Ong sits with Singaporean Paralympic swimmer Theresa Goh to discuss inclusivity and equality

creative writing

Nobody knows how to offend better than the world

Who allowed the consequential “tik-tok” of the futile wrist-watch, which by now engraved itself into your wooden side table?

Mary Stabińska on the toll of isolation

society

Masks, Russia’s silent rebellion

It was when I landed in Moscow, Russia, when I very suddenly realised that humanity is not so united in its fight against the coronavirus. Not at all.

Eva Smolokovskaya on pictures she took in the Russian capital

visual arts

‘Sorry sir, my connection is bad’

The texts in the artwork are actual messages I have sent or received this past year. Using them made me acknowledge the new vocabulary we now use on the daily basis and the frequently used phrases excusing our tardiness to online classes or the lack of finished homework, like “Sorry Sir, my connection is bad.”

Artist's take on the months of the pandemic from Elizabeth Bronstein

creative writing

Halfway to Neverland

All children, except one, grow up. I always thought I would be the one to remain within the confines of innocence, escaping the inevitability of adulthood. Yet, on the brink of eighteen, I count the days separating me from the rest of my life.

Noemi Elliott on encountering the thought of ageing

society

Tornado of history. How Koreans became the fourth Zhuz of Kazakhstan

Only much later would they find out that Stalin, afraid of potential Japanese spies living in the USSR, wanted to cleanse Russia of any threats. His fear somehow ended up encompassing Koreans as well, so 124 train wagons were arranged to transport over 170,000 people to Central Asia. Based on today’s estimates, around 50,000 never made it off the trains.

Ilya Kan on the history of his family - and all Kazakhstan's Koreans - in the 20th century

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