Global Voices: Weekly Highlights—August 11-17, 2011

Madagascar: Sanctions Result in Economic Decline and Food Insecurity
After two and a half years of transitional government, Madagascar has experienced a slow, seemingly unstoppable decline of its fragile economy that has put a strain on the lives of millions. With an economy ranked worst in the world and a food crisis looming, Malagasy citizens debate the merits and impacts of international sanctions. read>>

Australia: Malaysia No Solution to 'Boat People' Politics
The Australian government's attempt to take a hard line on people smugglers and asylum seekers arriving by boat has hit a major snag. In December 2010, approximately 50 asylum seekers were drowned at Christmas Island. A legal challenge has postponed a swap of the surviving refugees with Malaysia. read>>

Tunisia: "The People Want an Independent Judiciary"
"People want independent judiciary" is a slogan that has been recently raised in the streets of Tunisia. Afef Abrougui takes a look at the reactions of bloggers following the release of two former ministers as well as a close ally of the former Tunisian strongman Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, whose freedom has sparked calls for more protests read>>

India: Was Delhi's SlutWalk More of a Media Hype?
On Sunday 31 July, 2011, Delhi held it's own version of the SlutWalk - titled 'Besharmi Morcha' to make it more relevant to the Indian context. Netizens discussed the event, its reach, impact and its coverage in the mainstream media. read>>

China: Large NIMBY Protest Erupts in Dalian
A Sunday morning sit-in protest in downtown Dalian, Liaoning province, against a chemical factory located in the city turned into a large-scale procession through the streets. Police were out in full force, but so too were the microbloggers. read>>

More posts on Global Voices this week..
World: Share Your Life With the World on 11-11-11
Africa: Africa to Send Troops and Care Packages to the UK
Comedic Fun with Japanese Hashtag Memes
Philippines: Uproar over Sorry State of Manila Zoo
Japan: How to Unplug Your Life and Save Electricity
Egypt: The Verb 'To Mubarak'
Uganda: Minister Claims Opposition Using Social Media to Prepare for War

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