The article examines the political landscape in Mexico under President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, focusing on his administration's impact on democracy, security, and public services. Despite initial popularity and promises of transformation, López Obrador's tenure is marked by increased militarization, undermining of democratic institutions, and persistent issues in health care and security. Claudia Sheinbaum, his successor as Morena's presidential candidate, faces the challenge of addressing these issues while maintaining the party's legacy. The article highlights the polarized political environment and the potential implications for Mexico's future governance.

Latin American startups have seen significant growth, with the number backed by venture capital more than doubling between 2020 and 2023. In 2021, these startups attracted around $16bn in investment, matching the previous decade's total. The pandemic accelerated startup activity as people sought online services. SoftBank's $5bn fund for Latin America, launched in 2019, played a crucial role in this growth, encouraging other funds to invest in the region.

Mexico's future hinges on the extent to which President López Obrador's administration can destabilize the system and the independence of the country's institutions. The president, who initially promised a more democratic government, is now seen as a threat to democracy.

Shinzo Abe, Japan's prime minister, faces significant challenges both domestically and internationally. He must navigate complex negotiations with President Donald Trump regarding North Korea and trade tariffs while dealing with multiple scandals at home. These scandals involve allegations of cronyism and cover-ups within his administration, leading to public protests and calls for his resignation. Despite his achievements in economic growth and international relations, Abe's handling of the bureaucracy and concentration of power in the prime minister's office have drawn criticism. The article highlights the mixed legacy of Abe's tenure, marked by both successes and controversies.

Sarah Birke discusses the challenges she faced as a pregnant woman taking up a new role as Tokyo bureau chief for The Economist. She contrasts the manageable stress of her situation with the bafflement and assumptions of the Japanese people she encountered, who questioned the decision of her company to appoint her given her pregnancy, assuming she would not return to work post-childbirth.

The article discusses the challenges faced by young Arabs, particularly focusing on Muhammad Fawzy, a 21-year-old engineering student at Cairo University. Despite the demand for technical graduates, Fawzy is pessimistic about his job prospects and the ability to support his family, which also affects his prospects for marriage. The article explores the broader context of youth unemployment, political repression, and the aftermath of the Arab Spring. It highlights the demographic explosion, high youth unemployment rates, and the trend of migration. The article also touches on the changing attitudes towards education, gender equality, and religious beliefs among young Arabs. It concludes by examining the potential for radicalization due to disenchantment and lack of opportunities, while noting that most young Arabs do not support extremist groups like IS.

The Iraq National Museum in Baghdad has reopened, showcasing treasures of ancient Mesopotamia despite significant losses to looting and destruction by Daesh. The article highlights the ongoing destruction of cultural heritage sites by Daesh, including Nimrud and Hatra, and the impact on Mosul's historical mosques and churches. It underscores the pride Iraqis feel in their ancient heritage and the efforts of dedicated archaeologists to preserve it. The American-led coalition is criticized for not protecting these sites, emphasizing the shared global responsibility to safeguard cultural monuments.

The article provides an in-depth look at the situation in Raqqa, Syria, under ISIS control. It details the intensification of bombings by the United States and its allies, the strategic importance of Raqqa, and the brutal governance by ISIS. The piece highlights the suffering of civilians, the oppressive rules imposed by ISIS, and the complex dynamics involving various rebel groups and international actors. It also discusses the challenges faced by the local population, the role of foreign fighters, and the impact of American airstrikes on ISIS's ability to govern. The article concludes by reflecting on the lack of viable alternatives for the people of Raqqa, caught between the brutality of ISIS and the Assad regime.

The article provides an in-depth analysis of how ISIS governs the territories it controls, particularly focusing on Raqqa in Syria. It details the group's hierarchical structure, strict enforcement of sharia law, and the impact of US-led airstrikes on its governance. The piece also explores the reasons behind ISIS's rapid recruitment, the local population's response to its rule, and the broader geopolitical dynamics involving the US, Syrian regime, and other rebel groups. Despite its brutal tactics and oppressive rule, ISIS has managed to maintain control through a combination of repression and pragmatic governance.

The article examines the governance and control mechanisms of ISIS in Raqqa, Syria, highlighting the group's brutal enforcement of sharia law, hierarchical organization, and the impact of US-led airstrikes. It discusses the strategic importance of Raqqa, the role of foreign fighters, and the local population's response to ISIS rule. The piece also explores the broader geopolitical context, including the involvement of the US-led coalition, the Syrian regime, and other rebel groups.