Justina Asishana is a data/investigative journalist based in Minna, Nigeria. She is also a fact checker and a health and nutrition advocate. She is currently the Niger state Correspondent for The Nation Newspaper in Nigeria. She is open for work in any part of Nigeria

Fed Govt raises 2025 HIV response fund

03 Dec 2024  |  The Nation Newspaper  |  English  |  Public Health Policy

Nigeria is advancing its efforts to end HIV/AIDS by 2030 through increased funding and strategic initiatives. The Federal Government has proposed a N1.3 trillion healthcare allocation for 2025, with significant funds earmarked for HIV treatment and prevention. The strategy includes domestic production of HIV-related commodities, workforce development, and enhanced data systems. Challenges such as stigma and funding constraints persist, but recent reforms and local manufacturing initiatives offer hope for improved outcomes. The Global Fund and PEPFAR emphasize the need for sustained investment and local production to enhance health security.

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Public Health Policy HIV/AIDS Healthcare Funding

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Victor Blanco is a journalist based in Ciudad de México, Mexico.

In a year or a year and a half the AP-9 could be free

15 Oct 2024  |  OndaCero  |  Spanish  |  Public Policy

The president of the Asociación de Consumidores 'En Colectivo', Diego Maraña, praises political efforts to make the AP-9 highway free, highlighting a study by the Universidad de A Coruña that suggests it is more cost-effective for the state to rescue the highway than to continue paying the concessionaire. The study estimates the cost of the concession rescue at 900 million euros, significantly lower than previous government estimates. Maraña also supports recent announcements by the Xunta to rescue other regional highways, emphasizing potential savings. He criticizes the Spanish government's response to EU requirements, suggesting that compliance could lead to the AP-9 becoming free within a year or a year and a half.

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Public Policy Transportation

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Cameron Brooks is a journalist based in Gloucester, United Kingdom.

Kirk urges Scottish Government to restore free bus passes for asylum seekers policy

09 Oct 2024  |  The Scotsman  |  English  |  Public Transport Policy

The Church of Scotland and Scottish Faiths Action for Refugees urge the Scottish Government to reinstate free bus passes for asylum seekers, a policy scrapped in August due to budget cuts. The initiative, supported by the Scottish Green Party and Maryhill Integration Network, aims to alleviate isolation and financial strain on asylum seekers, who live on minimal weekly allowances. The policy is seen as a crucial social justice measure to help asylum seekers integrate and access essential services. A debate in the Scottish Parliament seeks to reverse the government's decision.

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Public Transport Policy Asylum Seekers Scottish Government

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Călin Căciuleanu is a freelance journalist whose long-form work has most recently appeared in Panorama.ro and PressOne. He has over three years experience in covering labour and the economy for Ziare.com and writing financial crime-oriented news articles and features for the UK-based Financial ...

The Myth of the 'Bloated' Budget System. Figures Showing Romania's Public System is Smaller than Anywhere in Europe

18 Jan 2025  |  Ziare.com  |  Romanian  |  Public Sector Employment

Romania's public sector is perceived as oversized, but data shows it has the highest ratio of public employees to population in the EU. Despite political debates, the public sector serves a large number of citizens, with significant employment in education, internal affairs, and health. Romania's public spending is low compared to the EU average, and tax collection is insufficient, with labor taxes high but corporate taxes low. The government struggles with tax collection, and there are calls for increased taxes and improved collection efficiency. Economic discussions highlight the need for better fiscal policies to align with regional standards.

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Economic Policy Public Sector Employment Taxation in Romania

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Lassana Cassama is a journalist based in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau.

Guinean Authorities Called to Be More Rigorous in Controlling the Payroll

10 Oct 2024  |  www.voaportugues.com  |  Portuguese  |  Public Sector Salaries

Guinea-Bissau is exploring Blockchain technology to enhance transparency and control in public sector salary payments, addressing the issue of excessive budget allocation to payroll. Experts like Santos Fernandes and Midana Sambú highlight the potential of Blockchain to eliminate ghost employees and improve financial discipline, though they emphasize the need for rigorous implementation by government authorities. The country's current expenditure on salaries significantly exceeds the UEMOA convergence criteria, underscoring the urgency for effective solutions.

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Economic Policy Public Sector Salaries Blockchain Technology

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Jitendra Choubey is Bangalore / New Delhi based Journalist. He writes on Environment, Climate Change, Natural hazard, Politics, Agriculture, Food, AgriBusiness, Agri-Technology and Science. He worked with magazine (Down To Earth) as well as daily newspaper (The New Indian Express) in India. He is ...

Women mobility up after free fare bus service in Delhi

31 Oct 2024  |  www.newindianexpress.com  |  English  |  Public Transport

The Delhi government's free bus ride scheme for women has significantly increased their mobility and reduced transport costs, allowing savings to be redirected to household and emergency expenses. Despite these benefits, the scheme faces challenges, with many women feeling unsafe due to harassment and poor conditions on buses. The report by Greenpeace India highlights both the positive impacts and the persisting issues, emphasizing the need for improvements to ensure safety and accessibility for all women, especially those from marginalized groups.

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Social Policy Public Transport Women's Safety

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I am a visual journalist and documentary filmmaker based in Aveiro, Portugal. * Emeritus professor in the Department of Communications, Media, Journalism & Film at Missouri State University
* Co-founder of the non-profit documentary film studio Carbon Trace Productions 501(c)(3) in Springfield, ...

Debunking five myths about N.H.'s business tax cuts

01 Oct 2024  |  THE JOSIAH BARTLETT CENTER FOR PUBLIC POLICY  |  English  |  Public Policy

The article debunks five myths surrounding New Hampshire's business tax cuts from 2015 to 2022, using state financial data to refute claims that the cuts led to reduced state revenues, decreased aid to local governments and public schools, and projected revenue shortfalls. It highlights that business tax revenues have more than doubled, the share of state revenues from businesses has increased, and state aid to local governments and public schools has risen. The article argues that increased state spending, not revenue declines, is responsible for any projected shortfalls.

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Public Policy Business Tax Cuts State Revenue

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Marie-Line Darcy is a journalist based in Lisboa, Portugal.

Portugal launches the 'green pass', a rail transport ticket at 20 euros per month

11 Nov 2024  |  RFI  |  French  |  Public Transport

Portugal has introduced a new 'green pass' rail transport ticket priced at 20 euros per month, allowing two daily journeys, excluding high-speed and peripheral lines. This initiative, launched on October 21, 2024, aims to promote sustainable mobility and is part of a broader government strategy that includes free travel for those under 23, incentives for electric vehicle purchases, and investments in cycling infrastructure. The government has allocated 19 million euros to compensate the national railway company, CP, for potential revenue losses. The overall budget for these mobility measures is set at 115 million euros until 2025.

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Environmental Policy Public Transport Sustainable Mobility

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Eduard Freisler is a Czech freelance journalist based in Caracas, Venezuela. Graduated in with a Bachelors degree in General Media from the Hunter College, New York City. Experienced at identifying and developing both mainstream and unusual viewpoints on stories involving peoples struggles for ...

Kennedy plans a radical health revolution for Americans

02 Dec 2024  |  www.seznamzpravy.cz  |  Czech  |  Health Policy

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated by Donald Trump for the position of Health Secretary, proposes radical health reforms in the U.S., including removing fluoride from water and promoting unpasteurized milk. His stance has sparked controversy, with experts warning of health risks and potential conflicts with state rights and business interests. Kennedy's focus on reducing obesity and industrially processed foods has garnered some support, but his plans face significant financial and logistical challenges. The FDA's role and budget constraints are highlighted as major hurdles in implementing these health initiatives.

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Public Health Health Policy Nutrition

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Enrique García Fuentes is a journalist based in Chicago. Originally from Mexico City, García Fuentes has successfully ventured into all areas of journalism. Before graduating from the University of Colorado, he was already the editor of Cultural Currents, the bilingual supplement of the Campus ...

Latinos in Chicago celebrate federal decision on lead pipes

16 Oct 2024  |  www.vozdeamerica.com  |  Spanish  |  Environmental Policy

Latino communities in Chicago, heavily impacted by lead contamination in drinking water, express approval of President Joe Biden's decision to replace lead pipes nationwide. This federal initiative is seen as a positive step towards addressing public health concerns related to lead exposure.

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Public Health Environmental Policy

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Journaliste freelance basé à Luanda, capitale de l'Angola, avec plus de 15 ans d'expérience, spécialisé dans la rédaction de nouvelles, le reportage et l'analyse d'informations dans des contextes économique, financier, politique, social et culturel. 
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Freelance journalist based in ...

Angola: Experts criticize the end of free healthcare

11 Nov 2024  |  www.voaportugues.com  |  Portuguese  |  Public Policy

The article discusses the controversy surrounding the potential end of free healthcare in Angola, highlighting criticisms from healthcare professionals and experts. They argue that the healthcare system is already inadequate, with a lack of primary healthcare and resources, and that ending free services would exacerbate social inequalities. The government is criticized for prioritizing tertiary hospital construction over primary care and for not effectively addressing the country's high disease prevalence linked to poor sanitation. Suggestions include investing in basic sanitation and healthcare education, and exploring alternative funding sources like mandatory health insurance and public company contributions.

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Public Policy Healthcare System Social Inequality

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Alan Greenblatt is a journalist based in St. Louis, United States of America.

State and Local Officials Urge Congress to Fund Lead Pipe Removal

22 Nov 2024  |  www.governing.com  |  English  |  Public Health

A new federal rule mandates the removal of lead drinking water pipes across the U.S., posing significant financial and logistical challenges for states, cities, and water utilities. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's rule requires the replacement of over 9 million lead service lines within a decade, with an estimated cost of $45 to $90 billion. State and local officials are urging Congress for ongoing funding to meet the deadline and avoid burdening ratepayers. The rule aims to prevent health issues associated with lead exposure, but concerns about affordability, workforce capacity, and private property complications persist. Some states, like Michigan and New Jersey, have already begun addressing the issue, but further federal support is deemed necessary.

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Environmental Policy Public Health Lead Pipe Removal

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Guy Hedgecoe is a journalist based in Madrid, Spain. He covers all news issues, including politics, economics and sport. He is author of 'Freezing Franco: The Battle for Spain's Memory'.

Spain’s government under fire over plan to house migrants in disused airport

17 Oct 2024  |  The Irish Times  |  English  |  Government Policy

The Spanish government's proposal to use the disused Ciudad Real airport as a migrant center has sparked significant criticism from local politicians and within the Socialist Party. Critics, including local mayors and the regional president, have likened the plan to creating a 'ghetto' or 'concentration camp' for migrants, expressing concerns over the lack of consultation and the potential negative impact on the region. The controversy arises amidst Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's defense of a humane immigration policy, contrasting with Italy's deportation approach.

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Public Controversy Government Policy Immigration

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Alison Hird is a journalist based in Paris, France.

What’s in France’s belt-tightening budget and can it win support?

11 Oct 2024  |  RFI  |  English  |  Tax Policy

France's government, led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, has announced a belt-tightening budget aimed at reducing the country's deficit from 6% to 5% by 2025, with a long-term goal of aligning with EU rules. The plan includes tax hikes on businesses and the wealthy, cuts to public sector jobs, and changes to pension and healthcare funding. The budget faces opposition from various political factions, with right-wing MPs seeking deeper cuts and left-wing MPs criticizing the impact on public services. The government may need to bypass parliament to implement the budget if consensus cannot be reached.

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Public Spending Tax Policy French Budget

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I am a journalist, currently working as a reporter for Glasgow Live. Please send any stories you may have to ******.

I have had a varied background that demonstrates my versatility and skill in multiple spheres of the industry. My writing credits include writing freelance for a varied number of ...

ScotRail urged to drop plans to cut ticket office hours

25 Dec 2024  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Public Transport

ScotRail faces criticism for its plans to reduce ticket office hours, with concerns about increased antisocial behavior, accessibility issues for disabled passengers, and challenges for tourists and those without online access. The Scottish Labour spokeswoman highlights inconsistencies in the Scottish government's transport policies, particularly regarding the A96. ScotRail defends the decision, citing changing ticket purchasing patterns and a significant drop in station ticket office sales. The Scottish government re-nationalized ScotRail in 2022, and the operator assures no job losses, with staff redeployed to other roles.

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Government Policy Public Transport

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Badylon Kawanda Bakiman is a journalist based in Kikwit, Congo the Democratic Republic. More than 20 years in journalism with a best experience in article writing, in investigative stories, features, web or blog contents… He is an exemplary business writer on several topics: Agriculture, Education, ...

DR Congo: Training in Bandundu City

15 Mar 2025  |  Writing.Com  |  English  |  Public Policy

Political-administrative authorities and civil society facilitators in Bandundu, DRC, have been trained in a rights-based approach to public policy, advocacy, and monitoring of decentralized territorial entities' finances. The training, part of the PARC project and supported by the European Union, aims to improve local living conditions. Participants engaged in group work to enhance learning, with ongoing activities planned to ensure effective public affairs management. The training emphasized understanding and applying human rights principles in interventions.

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Public Policy Training Human Rights

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Albert Kuzor is my name, a broadcast journalist based in Ghana. 

I work with Ghana’s leading Media Organization, the Multimedia Group. 
At the Multimedia Group, I work with Joy News as News writer for the brand’s online platform, Myjoyonline.com

GES conducts public survey on Free SHS and Double Track System

22 Feb 2025  |  www.myjoyonline.com  |  English  |  Education Policy

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has initiated a nationwide survey to collect public opinions on the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy and the Double Track System. Announced on February 22, 2025, the survey aims to evaluate the impact of these policies and identify challenges faced by students, parents, and teachers. The survey's findings will inform discussions at the National Education Forum, which is currently reviewing Ghana's education system. President John Dramani Mahama emphasized the forum's non-partisan nature, aiming to bring together various stakeholders to assess and improve the education system.

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Public Opinion Education Policy

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Fatima Muhammad is a journalist based in Kano, Nigeria.

Legislative backing secured for MMS procurement in Kaduna

23 Nov 2024  |  ashenewsdaily.com  |  English  |  Public Health

Lawmakers in Kaduna State have pledged support for the procurement and distribution of Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) to combat malnutrition and anaemia. This commitment was made during a policy dialogue organized by the Civil Society Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), which emphasized the critical issue of malnutrition in Nigeria. The dialogue aimed to secure increased funding and strategic interventions for MMS, with participants agreeing on measures such as creating a dedicated nutrition fund and expanding stakeholder membership. The initiative seeks to foster collaboration among legislative, executive, and relevant stakeholders to improve nutrition outcomes in Kaduna.

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Government Policy Public Health Malnutrition

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Gabriela Pérez is a journalist based in México.

Bono Juan Azurduy has a budget of 187 million bolivianos for 2025

28 Nov 2024  |  Radio Fides  |  Spanish  |  Social Policy

The Bono Juana Azurduy program, coordinated by José Corini, has disbursed over 140 million bolivianos by October 2024, benefiting 3.5 million individuals since its inception in 2009. With a guaranteed annual budget of 187 million bolivianos for the program and 128 million for prenatal subsidies, the initiative is set to continue until 2025. The program supports pregnant women and children, contributing to increased comprehensive health checks, although specific data on maternal and infant mortality reduction is unavailable. The 2025 budget allocates 187 million bolivianos to the program, aiming to benefit over 241,000 people.

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Public Health Social Policy Economic Incentives

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Zoran Popovici is a video and photo journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

Ending HIV in Europe – Can the EU lead the global path forward to 2030?

01 Oct 2024  |  EURACTIV.com  |  English  |  Public Health

Europe is committed to ending the HIV epidemic by 2030, but many countries are not on track to meet global goals. An estimated 765,000 people in EU/EEA countries live with HIV, with 23,000 new cases annually. A report by BCG, commissioned by Gilead Sciences, emphasizes the need for sustained funding, innovation, and policy efforts. The EU is urged to coordinate initiatives, support member states, and maintain political momentum. Key questions include the role of biomedical innovations, funding, and best practices for testing.

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EU Policy Public Health HIV Epidemic

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Vanesa Restrepo is a journalist based in Medellín - Antioquia, Colombia.

Brazil takes another step in guaranteeing maternal health, but it is still not enough

01 Oct 2024  |  Center for Reproductive Rights  |  Spanish  |  Public Policy

The Brazilian government, led by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has launched the 'Red Alyne' initiative to improve maternal and infant healthcare, particularly in rural areas, and reduce maternal mortality rates. This policy update honors Alyne da Silva Pimentel Texeira, who died in 2002 due to inadequate medical care, highlighting ongoing racial and economic disparities. The initiative follows a 2011 UN CEDAW Committee condemnation of Brazil for failing to protect Alyne's rights, marking a historic decision for maternal health rights. While the 'Red Alyne' is a significant step forward, challenges remain in its implementation to ensure equitable healthcare access for all women and pregnant individuals in Brazil.

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Public Policy Maternal Health Discrimination

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Venâncio Rodrigues has been a VOA correspondent journalist since 1996. He has covered major political and military events. He did several reports during the civil war in Angola, until 2002. He participated in several workshops and professional training in Angola and the United States of America

Angola: 'Ghost Workers' Triple and Government Suspends Subsidies

30 Jan 2025  |  www.voaportugues.com  |  Portuguese  |  Public Administration

The Angolan government has suspended isolation subsidies due to the discovery of 'ghost workers' on its payroll, a problem that has reportedly tripled. The Ministry of Public Administration, Labor and Social Security is conducting an investigation to identify these non-existent employees. Union leaders express skepticism about the government's commitment to accountability, citing past inaction. The issue highlights systemic corruption within the public sector, with allegations of officials adding deceased relatives to payrolls. The government promises to release findings once the investigation concludes, amid ongoing concerns about public sector inefficiencies.

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Government Policy Public Administration Corruption

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Laura Sepulveda is a journalist based in New York, United States of America. Bilingual (Spanish and English) multimedia reporter with experience as an anchor, in radio and Tv reporting as well as investigative journalism and public relations.
Disciplined professional, with leadership skills, ...

Texas seeks to allocate public funds to private education

14 Mar 2025  |  www.vozdeamerica.com  |  Spanish  |  Education Policy

The Texas Congress is evaluating a proposal to allocate public funds for private education access, supported by the state government. Another legislative initiative aims to require undocumented individuals to pay for educational access.

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Public Funding Education Policy

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EJ Ward is a Broadcast Journalist based in London, United Kingdom. With experience working across a range of media EJ is skilled at broadcast journalism and live reporting. Experienced in managing a newsroom he currently works as a News Editor and Producer for Sino Radio UK, part of the GBTIMES ...

Chancellor ‘doesn’t know’ salary of new chairman tasked with ensuring government ‘value for money'

31 Oct 2024  |  LBC  |  English  |  Public Spending

Chancellor Rachel Reeves faced scrutiny over the lack of transparency regarding the salary of David Goldstone, the new Chairman of the Office for Value for Money, during an interview with Nick Ferrari. The discussion highlighted concerns about government waste and fiscal oversight. Conservative Kemi Badenoch criticized the necessity of the new office, suggesting existing civil service structures should suffice. The article also covers the implications of Labour's recent tax hikes, which are expected to impact wages and job security, drawing criticism from various economic analysts and political figures. Despite concerns, the IMF supports the long-term fiscal strategy.

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Tax Policy Public Spending Government Transparency

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