Category: Freedom Reset
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Social Media Algorithms and the Importance of Informed Voting
The BBC invented “Gabriela,” a fictional voter, to investigate how social media sites use algorithms to influence political beliefs. Gabriela’s feeds were initially apolitical, but after Elon Musk’s platform improvements, X (previously Twitter) began to prioritize Trump-related information. Meanwhile, TikTok’s algorithm promoted a pro-Kamala Harris video that reflected her identification as a Latina voter, while…
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Philippines’ National ID Push: Are Data Security Risks Being Overlooked?
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), with assistance from the World Bank, recently hosted a workshop to assess the impact of the PhilSys National ID system on financial inclusion, social services, and government efficiency. The event focused on PhilSys’ role in accelerating digital transformation and strengthening public services. Furthermore, the PSA warned against unlawful ID printing,…
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Taiwan’s Right to Self-Defense
The United States approved a $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan to bolster the island’s defenses amid increasing Chinese military threats. Taiwan expressed gratitude, highlighting the importance of self-defense for regional stability. China criticized the move, stating it undermines its sovereignty and harms U.S.-China relations, warning of countermeasures. The arms deal follows recent Chinese military…
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Lessons from COVID-19 Compliance in Disaster Response in the Philippines
Families in high-risk areas of Antique province are being advised to evacuate preemptively due to Typhoon Leon’s expected heavy rains. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office is closely monitoring water levels, particularly at the Sibalom River. Schools across 17 local government units have suspended in-person classes, with alternative learning modes activated for safety.…
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Israel’s Escalating Military Campaign in Iran Spurs Regional Instability
Israel launched a large-scale bombardment on Iran, reportedly comprising 140 planes targeting military targets, in retaliation for Iran’s missile barrage on October 1st. Israel justified the operations, which targeted Iranian military bases in Tehran and Syria, as self-defense in the face of repeated Iranian attacks. US officials admitted advance notice of the operation but denied…
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Israel’s Escalating Military Campaign in Iran Spurs Regional Instability
Israel launched a large-scale bombardment on Iran, reportedly comprising 140 planes targeting military targets, in retaliation for Iran’s missile barrage on October 1st. Israel justified the operations, which targeted Iranian military bases in Tehran and Syria, as self-defense in the face of repeated Iranian attacks. US officials admitted advance notice of the operation but denied…
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Government Actions and Authoritarian Trends to Erode Free Speech
A resurfaced 2019 video shows Kamala Harris arguing for the Department of Justice to crack down on extremist speech and holding social media firms accountable for failing to police their material. This is consistent with broader worldwide efforts to repress dissent, as seen in the United Kingdom and France, where governments censor and jail citizens…
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UN’s Powerlessness in Enforcing Resolutions Amid Escalating Violence in Lebanon
An Israeli air assault on the town of Aitou in northern Lebanon killed 23 people, prompting concerns about violations of international humanitarian law. The strike hit a residential building housing displaced individuals, including women and children, as Israeli forces continued to attack Hezbollah. The violence has displaced nearly 1.2 million people in Lebanon, putting a…
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US Criticizes Israel’s Aid Blockade but Continues Military Support
A leaked letter from US officials Blinken and Austin condemns Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza, seeking more access and warning of potential cuts to US military assistance. The letter underlines Israel’s restrictions and forced displacement of residents, which exacerbates the humanitarian crisis and raises the risk of disease epidemics. It also questions Israel’s…
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Human Cost of War: Gaza Civilians Trapped Between Military Strategy and Humanitarian Crisis
The Israeli military has warned residents of northern Gaza’s D5 sector to flee south due to ongoing operations against Hamas, while Hamas encourages people to stay, claiming that the south is just as dangerous. Many civilians remain in northern Gaza despite the escalating bombardment, with hospitals facing serious fuel shortages and humanitarian aid being hindered.…