The Brexit vote campaign and its subsequent outcome have had far-reaching consequences for the United Kingdom, particularly for the Conservative Party. The then-Prime Minister David Cameron’s attempt to appease the Eurosceptic wing of his party and fend off the threat of the UK Independence Party (UKIP) initially triggered the campaign, which ultimately led to a…… Continue reading Brexit Fallout: Tories on the Brink
Author: prof.t.abbas
Britain at a Crossroads: The High Stakes of the 2024 Election
As British voters prepare to render their verdict on 4 July, they find their nation arriving at a pivotal crossroads after a tumultuous 14 years under Conservative rule. A likely Labour victory presents an opportunity for seismic change but also injects tremendous uncertainty into the country’s trajectory on issues ranging from economic policy to social…… Continue reading Britain at a Crossroads: The High Stakes of the 2024 Election
Dissent at Risk: UK’s New Extremism Definition
The UK government’s new definition of extremism, unveiled with the noble intention of combating intolerance and hate, has raised serious concerns among civil liberties advocates, activists, and members of targeted communities who fear it could have severe unintended consequences for free speech and democratic dissent. The definition’s vague and broad nature risks encompassing a wide…… Continue reading Dissent at Risk: UK’s New Extremism Definition
Pakistan Plunged into Post-Election Turmoil
The recently concluded 2024 general elections in Pakistan have left the country in a state of uncertainty and chaos. With no clear mandate delivered, allegations of rigging flying thick and fast, and violence claiming over a dozen lives, the hope for political stability and economic recovery remains elusive. The results took everyone by surprise. Pre-poll…… Continue reading Pakistan Plunged into Post-Election Turmoil
The Long Shadow of Imran Khan Darkens Pakistan’s Elections
The controversies surrounding the dramatic rise and fall of former Prime Minister Imran Khan are obscuring Pakistan’s preparations for crucial general elections on 8 February. Though barred from running himself, Khan’s enduring popularity and allegations of a “foreign conspiracy” to unseat him have left the nuclear-armed nation’s already fragile democracy on uncertain ground. A Legend…… Continue reading The Long Shadow of Imran Khan Darkens Pakistan’s Elections
Call for Chapters
Dear Colleague I’m reaching out to let you know about an exciting opportunity to contribute to The Routledge International Handbook on Social Exclusion and Radicalisation, edited by myself, Dr. Lianne Vostermans, and Dr. Richard McNeil-Willson. This groundbreaking handbook will examine the relationship between social exclusion and radicalisation on a global scale, using multidisciplinary perspectives. It…… Continue reading Call for Chapters
Mark Robert Dunmore Johnson (1948–2023): An Eulogy
The late Mark Robert Dunmore Johnson (1948–2023) was my PhD second supervisor back at the University of Warwick from 1995 to 2000. An Oxford-trained geographer, he specialised in ethnic inequalities, with a particular focus on health. I remember my time with him with great joy and fondness because he was very eccentric and playful but…… Continue reading Mark Robert Dunmore Johnson (1948–2023): An Eulogy
The Old Oak: A film review
THE OLD OAK is a touching reminder of our shared humanity at a time of crises that affect individuals and communication due to local, national, and international challenges of identity, status, and belonging. The holiday this time of year provides stacks of opportunities to try and not do very much and, in some cases, find…… Continue reading The Old Oak: A film review
Inequality, Conflict, and Hope: Reviewing a Turbulent 2023
As 2023 draws to a close, I provide a reflection on the turbulence and conflicts that have emerged over the past year. Ranging from economic instability and widening inequality to geopolitical tensions heightened by the war in Ukraine and the flare-up of violence between Israel and Palestine, these crises have exacerbated polarisation, radicalisation, and ethno-religious…… Continue reading Inequality, Conflict, and Hope: Reviewing a Turbulent 2023
Fragmented Societies and the Dangers of Exclusive Nationalism
The rise in popularity of majoritarian nationalism, populism, authoritarianism, and nativist jingoism in national politics has occurred recently not only in South America (with Argentina) but also in Europe (with recent examples in Italy and the Netherlands). These concerns add to the ongoing debate over how to address issues of pluralism, diversity, and inclusion, despite…… Continue reading Fragmented Societies and the Dangers of Exclusive Nationalism