Harbingers’ Project

social media

Studies highlight the negative effects of too much screen time

Researchers have found a correlation between prolonged use of electronic devices and physical and mental health issues among teenagers, and conclude that it is vital to reduce the time young people spend on their devices.

17-year-old Malena Troncoso reports on the detrimental effects of prolonged screen time on children and teens

opinion

My opinion? I don’t know, and that’s OK

Have you ever felt pressured to have an opinion on a political debate? Same, and it’s tough. Politically oriented questions happen more and more frequently in conversations, as the political scene gets polarised, and radicalisation and conservatism trends get more popular.

17-year-old Camille Hasbani on how to arrive at a valid opinion on political issues

The Harbinger Prize 2025 is an essay competition for teenage journalists. Stay tuned for the 2026 edition

science

Digital symbiosis: Living with the machine

From the moment of waking, there is an instinctual urge to reach out for a device, a response that seemingly feels as if it has been programmed into our systems. One would assume that for a generation raised on screens, sensors and seamless connectivity, there would be nothing that could faze us, but the impact of digital technology has penetrated our very biological rhythms.

17-year-old Saanvi Akula explores the benefits – and drawbacks - of digitalised medicine

sri lankan newsroom

China’s deep-sea ambitions beneath the Mariana Trench

Far beneath the surface of the western Pacific Ocean, south of Japan and east of the Philippines archipelago, lies the deepest known point on Earth: the Mariana Trench. This underwater chasm is nearly 11 km deep – around two kilometres deeper than Mount Everest is tall – 69 km wide and extends for 2,540 km. The nearest land is the Mariana Islands, 200 km to the west.

17-year-old Lisindi Liyanage reveals how China’s underwater explorations could help its space programme

climate crisis

How climate change is threatening fishers and farmers in Tanzania

“The waves are stronger and harder to predict, especially at night. Sometimes strong winds and sudden rain will actually stop us from fishing,” says Hassan Ally, a Tanzanian fisherman with almost 30 years of experience on the water. As the sun sets over Bagamoyo, a historical coastal town 65km north of Dar es Salaam, tired fishermen return from the ocean with nearly empty nets.

16-year-old Lidya Gasper explores how climate change is impacting agricultural and fishing activities in Tanzania

politics

Why young people are missing from politics – Sevenoaks mayor speaks out

Young people are consistently under-represented in politics globally, and social media misinformation is one of the key reasons behind this trend, thinks Tony Clayton, mayor of the town of Sevenoaks in Kent, UK. “There is this polarisation and echo chamber effect, which means that people stop listening to each other,” the mayor said in an exclusive interview with Harbingers’ Magazine.

16-year-old Lukas Abromavicius interviews Tony Clayton about youth under-representation in politics

film & book club

Dark and violent season ends Stranger Things’ decade of cultural influence

For over a month, Netflix dominated streaming and social media, capturing the attention of people precisely when they were sitting at home and looking for things to watch. Various theories from fans fuelled the excitement for weeks, making the release of the final episode a huge event.

Pola Gudowicz, 17, and Sonia Rybus, 16, analyse the last season of Netflix’s hit show

economics

How the world’s chocolate empire runs on 90¢ wages

Before the world unwraps its chocolate, somewhere in the heat of Ghana’s Ashanti region, a farmer named Nana Nyanteng Ahenkan bends over rows of cocoa trees, machete in hand. He has been working since sunrise – eight, maybe nine hours.

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari explores why West Africa’s cocoa farmers earn cents from a billion-dollar industry

afghanistan newsroom

Returning Afghan refugees face an unstable future

Every year, thousands of Afghan refugees make the difficult decision to return home to Afghanistan. According to UNHCR, the United Nations refugee agency, more than 1.6 million Afghans returned from neighbouring countries in 2024 alone, many to uncertain futures and fragile communities. Their journey back is not just physical – it’s emotional, driven by a longing for identity and belonging.

17-year-old Hadiya from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains why refugees choose to return – and what awaits them

society

Gen Z: Defined by adaptability

Gen Z has faced challenges that were previously unimaginable to past generations, particularly in education. As a young student, I was impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and, more recently, by the democratisation of AI (artificial intelligence). You might think that these challenges would slow us down, but, in fact, they make us stronger and more resilient.

17-year-old Malena Troncoso suggests ways to help her generation reach their full potential

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film & book club

Classic saga turns into a call for awakening. Avatar: Fire and Ash review

The first Avatar premiered in 2009 and ignited cinema screens because it made audiences feel as though they were being transported into a different dimension. Pandora glowed with vibrant, breathtaking colours, and its creatures felt entirely new — James Cameron’s world-building redefined what visual storytelling could be. Avatar: The Way of Water, released after a 13-year break, carried that legacy forward, expanding the universe with new characters and emotional depth.

Aleksandra Tomaszewska and Kaja Majewska, both 16, analyse James Cameron’s environmental message

2025 japan newsroom

‘If the youth fear nuclear weapons, they should raise their voices and take action’

On 6 August 1945, the United States dropped the atomic bomb ‘Little Boy’ on the Japanese city of Hiroshima, followed three days later by the ‘Fat Man’ bomb on Nagasaki. The bombing led directly to the loss of 100,000 lives, but the devastation persisted as the resulting radiation contributed to the deaths of an additional 100,000 people.

17-year-old Reva Sobti interviews journalist and academic Norito Kunisue on Japan’s role in global conflict resolution

women's desk

What Gen Z girls think about ‘femvertising’

The practice of promoting a product through messages about female empowerment – commonly known as ‘femvertising’ – has become a major way that brands try to attract the interest of many Gen Z females, especially in fast-fashion campaigns. For example, extremely thin models are shown wearing baby tees with so-called “feminist” slogans printed on them, like the examples above.

16-year-old Samantha De Mesa talks to teenagers in the Philippines about brands’ use of feminist slogans

crisis zones

Sudan civil war, explained

To understand how Sudan has reached this point, this explainer unpacks the conflict’s causes, its turning points, the country’s geography and the humanitarian crisis now unfolding. On 24 November, the RSF agreed to a temporary three-month humanitarian ceasefire in response to growing international concern over the dire conditions civilians were facing. Famine has already been confirmed in several parts of Sudan.

16-year-old Helena Bruździak breaks down Sudan’s war and the ongoing humanitarian crisis

film & book club

‘You can’t just dress up and pretend to be young people,’ says 1670 director Maciej Buchwald

This show took Netflix by surprise – not much indicated that 1670, a historical mockumentary set in Poland in the 17th century, with humour deeply rooted in Polish history, traditions and politics, would make it into the top 10 in over 20 countries, from Austria to Jamaica and Canada.

Maja Dobrosielska and Aleksandra Tomaszewska, both 16, interview one of the Netflix show’s creators

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film & book club

Kill Bill remains a must-see, genre-defining celebration of cinematic audacity

Tarantino has been criticised for stylising violence to the brink of fetishization. Yet it is this unapologetic embrace of excess that encouraged filmmakers to take artistic risks — proving that violent cinema can also be formally ambitious and culturally resonant.

Antek Popczyński and Tomasz Morek, both 16, revisit Quentin Tarantino’s magnum opus

opinion

Should politicians have to prove their emotional intelligence?

Leaders who cannot manage their own emotions often misread threats, lash out impulsively or choose confrontation over diplomacy. This kind of ego-driven leadership fuels global conflict, domestic division and public distrust. In a world where war can be sparked by a single reckless command, emotional intelligence (also known as “emotional quotient” or EQ) is a safeguard against disaster.

16-year-old Irma Mecele explores why emotionally intelligent leaders are key to global stability and peace

opinion

Don’t tell me to leave my country – I want to stay and fight for it

Every time another friend boards a plane to flee Afghanistan, my heart aches – not because I envy their departure, but because their absence adds weight to the burden, we, who stay, continue to carry. Each empty seat in a classroom, each silent voice in the community is a reminder of the pressure to leave.

16–year-old Mahwa from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains why she chooses to remain in her homeland when so many are leaving

opinion

Why you should rewatch (some) movies and shows

A few months ago, I edited an article by Sofia Vorobei, Harbingers’ Culture Section editor, in which she explained how she could never rewatch a movie or show, with one exception. As I was editing the piece, one thought coursed through my mind: “Wow, I couldn’t disagree more.” I rewatch movies and shows all the time.

17-year-old Charlotte Wejchert argues that rewatching isn’t a waste of time

education

Shining a light on the false sense of (cyber)security

Ever since AI (artificial intelligence) became integrated in everyday life, the human ability to truly empathise and have thoughts independent from technology vanished. Types of artificial intelligence range from chatbots such as ChatGPT, social media algorithms, and digital assistants across many platforms.

17-year-old Siya Keval examines the dangers young people face from the unchecked use of AI

culture

The joy of cultural mashups

I go to an international school in Copenhagen, so I have gotten acquainted with a lot of mixed-race children. I’ve noticed that the different worlds they inhabit are often mixed up, resulting in some unique habits and traditions. As I am also the beneficiary of multiple cultures – my father is Syrian, my mother is French and I grew up in Denmark – I am very interested in these cultural mashups.

17-year-old Camille Hasbani interviews three teenage girls with unique cultural mixes to understand how differences can cohabit

politics

Will Zohran Mamdani change American politics?

As Mamdani was sworn in at the subway station beneath New York’s City Hall – the first mayor to deliver the oath with their hand on a Quran – the big question is whether this is a uniquely New York event, or something that will affect American politics in general.

17-year-old Klara Hammudeh analyses the ripples Mamdani’s victory sent through the political landscape

politics

Best of 2025: Five must-read articles from the Politics section

2025 in politics has largely been dominated by the Donald J. Trump and the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine. While revising the Politics section’s work over the last year, I noticed how successful Harbingers’ writers have been in keeping distance from unimportant, short-lived feuds between politicians. Instead of describing antagonising events, we managed to keep our focus on the big picture.

17-year-old Klara Hammudeh picks her favourite articles from the Politics section this year

traditions

Grand Egyptian Museum opens after two-decade wait

A ceremony was held on 1 November, attended by Egyptian president Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and leaders from Spain, Germany and the Netherlands as well as dozens of other international dignitaries. The night sky lit up with drones and fireworks with imagery from Ancient Egypt. A torchlight procession accompanied the transfer of King Tutankhamun’s possessions from the old Egyptian Museum in central Cairo to the new site.

17-year-old Mutaz Sameh covers the museum’s spectacular opening and the long history behind its construction

climate crisis

Illegal mining and the lack of green policy-making in the Philippines

The Philippines has huge untapped reserves of copper, gold, nickel, zinc and silver estimated to be worth a trillion US dollars, making it the fifth-most mineralised country in the world. In 2023, total exports of minerals were worth $7.32m (408.4m Philippine pesos). Yet were all of these exports sourced legally? We cannot be certain, because illegal mining continues to be a major problem in the country.

17-year-old Ryleigh Lemsic voices her concerns about politicians’ green agenda, and asks her generation to step up

opinion

Grammys 2026 ‘big four’ nominations: Who is truly deserving?

Every November when the Grammy nominations are announced, I wonder which songs, albums and artists would get my vote. This year, I feel I have paid closer attention to music and pop culture than ever before, so I’ve taken the liberty of critiquing the nominations before the winners are announced on 1 February 2026.

16-year-old Lola Kadas makes her pick of the 2026 Grammy nominations

economics

Why the South Africa summit could redefine the future of the G20

The 2025 G20 Summit, held on 22–23 November in Johannesburg, South Africa, was more than another gathering of the world’s largest and most influential economies. For the first time, the G20 was hosted on African soil, a symbolic shift for a forum made up of 19 countries along with the African Union and the European Union. Together, they represent about two-thirds of the world’s population and roughly 85% of global GDP.

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari explains the key economic and political takeaways from this year’s G20 Summit

nepali newsroom

Who is the first female prime minister of Nepal?

Sushila Karki was appointed Nepal’s interim prime minister on 12 September 2025, following the Gen Z-led protests that rocked the country and led to the resignation of the previous prime minister, KP Sharma Oli. At 73 years old, she has made history twice: first as Nepal’s first female chief justice and now as the country’s first female prime minister.

The Intermediate Group from the Nepali Newsroom profile Sushila Karki, the country’s new PM

film & tv

Win or die? What Alice in Borderland teaches us about the ethics of survival

Desolate streets, empty skyscrapers and games where every mistake is fatal – welcome to the Borderland, the ghost-city version of Tokyo, in Alice in Borderland. In this Netflix show, now in its third season, only one rule matters: win or die.

16-year-old Jamie Chan explores several philosophical theories that are reflected in this Netflix show

film & book club

Racing at full throttle. F1: The Movie analysis

The much-awaited F1: The Movie, released last June and starring big-name actors such as Brad Pitt, Javier Bardem and Damson Idris, has redefined what a sports film can achieve on a global scale. The fusion of Hollywood spectacle and real-world Formula 1 elevates the film beyond previous motor sports movies.

Igor Rybkowski, Franek Józefowicz and Mateusz Sarna, all 16, investigate the box office success of this Formula 1 winner

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culture

West End beats Broadway – Stranger Things stage productions in London and New York compared

I had the opportunity to see both versions of the play over the past year, and I was much more impressed by the West End production; the Broadway version left me feeling quite critical.

17-year-old Klara Hammudeh argues that the show on Broadway feels like a knockoff

society

Words of 2025: From ‘rage bait’ to ‘67’

At the end of every year, major dictionary publishers release their ‘word of the year’. Once just a quirky thing to do, it has turned into an annual tradition. Although each organisation uses its own method to establish its chosen word – whether it’s data, popularity or voting – the choices ultimately all reflect something about the given year.

17-year-old Kexin Shi put together the list of the year’s key words announced by dictionaries

2025 japan newsroom

Can ethics survive nuclear politics? A philosopher’s take

Today, when wars are increasingly fought with non-human elements, such as drones and algorithms, Dr Sanshiro Hosaka reminds us that ethics still matter. A doctor of philosophy who specialises in Russian propaganda and warfare, Dr Hosaka, a research fellow at the International Centre for Defence and Security (ICDS), a think tank in Estonia, explained to Harbingers’ Magazine how moral frameworks continue to shape decisions even in an anarchic international system.

16-year-old Irma Mecele questions the moral limits of nuclear power – from Japan to Ukraine – with a philosopher’s help

sri lankan newsroom

Cyclone Ditwah wreaks havoc in Sri Lanka

Early in the morning on 28 November, tropical cyclone Ditwah hit the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. What followed was a national emergency, affecting more than 1.7 million people across the island. By the following day, most districts were underwater and communications were cut off.

Hesandi Ravisinghe, 16, and Lisindi Liyanage, 17, report on the deaths and devastation caused in their homeland

politics

Bulgarian government resigns amid mass protests driven by Gen Z

Bulgarian centre-right prime minister Rosen Zhelyazkov resigned on 11 December following massive nationwide demonstrations – driven largely by Gen Z – and the withdrawal of the new controversial 2026 budget plan.

17-year-old Viola Papp reports on the country’s political shake-up and the role played by young people

afghanistan newsroom

The hidden young artists of Kandahar

In a quiet room in Kandahar, 16-year-old Shahnaz* sits by a window, her sketchbook open across her knees. With no paints or brushes, she draws with a pencil – of gardens she’s never seen, where girls are walking freely, their faces filled with dreams.

21–year-old Ghutai from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains how girls are expressing themselves through art, despite the Taliban

human rights

Best of 2025: Five must-read articles from the Human Rights section

What are human rights? One of Harbingers’ writers, Helena Bruździak, answered this question recently in her piece about this term, which is tossed around left to right. It’s also the name of our section.

17-year-old Charlotte Wejchert picks her favourite articles from the Human Rights section this year

our newsrooms

Best of 2025: Must-read articles from Harbingers’ newsrooms

My favourite part about being Editor-In-Chief of Harbingers’ Magazine has been working closely and forging relationships with writers from all over the world. This year, I was even able to visit the Nepali Newsroom team in person at the Mountain Children Home in Kathmandu, and meet members of our Sri Lankan Newsroom in Galle and Colombo.

18-year-old Noah Saphier rounds up his favourite articles from our seven newsrooms located around the world

AI & tech

Is AI eroding the humanities – and humanity itself?

Artificial intelligence is undeniably a gamechanger for both young people and adults. With the help of AI, we’ve been able to aim for the highest of highs, in ways that human beings alone are simply incapable of doing. Its effect has been revolutionary, with many industries and enterprises embracing AI as if it were godsent.

16-year-old Matthew Ng warns that there are great dangers as well as benefits from AI

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film & book club

A look inside the Nazi mind. Nuremberg review

While it is not the first film to revisit the Nuremberg trials that unfolded after the Second World War, Vanderbilt offer a distinctly new perspective and prompts fresh reflection on this well-documented chapter of history.

Antoni Popczyński and Tomasz Morek, both 16, review a new film about the historic Nuremberg trials

climate crisis

Fighting deforestation from an ecofeminist perspective

Since the beginning of time, there has been one singular concept that all cultures have agreed upon. By using terms such as Terra Mater, Gaia and Mother Nature, they all unconsciously admitted the unbreakable bond between women and the Earth.

17-year-old Viola Papp highlights the dangers of deforestation and what teens can do to combat it

politics

After the ceasefire in Gaza: Progress and setbacks

The war began when Hamas attacked Israel on 7 October 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages (83 were killed, 168 were returned alive to Israel). Since then, Israel’s death toll has risen to nearly 2,000 including Israeli Defense Force (IDF) soldiers, and 100,000 displaced.

18-year-old Noah Saphier reports on the fragile state of the peace agreement in Gaza and what comes next

science

Best of 2025: Five must-read articles from the Science Section

AI (artificial intelligence) has been the new hot topic in science in 2025, with many arguing over its potential benefits and possible dangers – we’ve published at least a dozen articles on the subject. The topic of global warming and climate change is becoming more pressing too, as shown by the UN’s latest climate conference, COP30, which took place in Brazil just a few weeks ago.

16-year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe picks her favourite articles from the Science section this year

opinion

Miss Universe 2025: A beauty pageant turns ugly

Does society really allow women to be on the same level with men, both professionally and elsewhere? Have we reached the same rights between two sexes, or does it only seem like that on the surface?

18-year-old Sofiia Didenko analyses the Miss Universe scandal that just won’t go away

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film & book club

Holland values emotional truth over easy storytelling. Franz Kafka review

Agnieszka Holland’s new film, entitled simply Franz Kafka, takes on the challenging task of portraying the life of a famously complex writer. The film isn’t a standard biography – Holland captures a figure suffocating in trying to accomplish competing duties, torn between an obligation towards an authoritative father and the need to follow his loud inner voice.

Kaja Majewska, 16, and Mikołaj Tran, 17, analyse Polish filmmaker Agnieszka Holland’s latest film

politics

Explainer: Thailand and Cambodia conflict 2025

For five days in late July, the frontier between Thailand and Cambodia saw its heaviest clashes in years. Artillery fire hit villages and localities on both sides of the border, Thai F-16s carried out air operations, and ground forces exchanged shells across several points in the forested areas near Preah Vihear.

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari reports on the five-day conflict on the Thailand-Cambodia border this summer

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film & book club

A masterpiece about the fight against the patriarchal order. Vermiglio review

Muted tones, silent scenes and the beautiful scenery of a remote Italian village combined with the tragedy of the Second World War. Telling the story of a clash between rural traditions and the changes caused by the ending of the war, Vermiglio, written and directed by Maura Delpero, is a 2024 Italian movie that tells the story of a family living in the Italian mountains in 1944.

Michalina Korycka and Natalia Czeredys, both 16, review Maura Delpero’s innovative film

culture

Best of 2025: Five must-read articles from the Culture section

Let’s be honest: 2025 has been a chaotic year for culture. Movies blew up overnight, a lot of new music dropped and somehow older books started feeling really relevant again. Being the Culture Editor this year meant getting to read all of that – the good, the weird, the controversial – and realising how much culture actually shapes how we think, even when we don’t notice it.

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei picks the key articles that shaped the Culture section in 2025

politics

Deadliest Hong Kong fire in years: 160 killed, 15 arrested

The blaze, which ignited on 30 November and burned for nearly two days, is the city’s deadliest urban fire in more than 70 years. It swept through seven of the eight residential towers at Wang Fuk Court, a housing complex of more than 5,000 residents that had been undergoing extensive renovations. At the height of operations, more than 1,200 emergency services personnel were on the scene, with 200 trucks and support vehicles and 100 ambulances.

16-year-old Stephanie Kwok reports on the deadly Tai Po fire in Hong Kong

opinion

Why’s everyone ‘locking in’ – and should you?

Have you ever heard of the “Great Lock-In”? If you’ve scrolled through social media recently, chances are you’ve seen people talking about it. It’s a new challenge that started in September 2025 and runs until the end of December. The idea is simple enough: cut out distractions and focus on your goals to make the last four months of the year count.

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei shares her take on a viral productivity challenge

traditions

The noisy tradition of Suboo: An echo through time

In every Egyptian household, the result of a successful pregnancy brings more than just a child; it brings company. Since the days of the pharaohs, Egyptians have celebrated the birth of their children with great pride, holding a large festival on the seventh day after the child’s birth, sometimes attended by the whole neighbourhood.

17-year-old Mutaz Sameh explains how Egyptians celebrate the birth of a child

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film & book club

Del Toro’s creature-focused film makes its title sound almost ironic. Frankenstein review

The newest adaptation of Frankenstein, long awaited by millions of fans, was released on Netflix in November. The movie directed by Guillermo del Toro, who has been awarded three times with an Oscar and twice with a Golden Globe, aroused great expectations. Coupled with Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth and Oscar Isaac as the main actors, the film, even before the premiere, was described as a once-in-a-generation creation.

Zosia Dudzic and Barbara Karsznia, both 16, review Netflix’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel

AI & tech

Dilemma for future lawyers: Can AI deliver justice?

Imagine yourself as a lawyer a decade from now: AI drafts your legal arguments, predicts outcomes and even suggests negotiation strategies. Does it make your job easier, strengthen justice or simply replace human judgement by an algorithm?

16-year-old Helena Bruździak wants to study law and wonders what will happen with the AI takeover

afghanistan newsroom

Under his watch: The burden of the male guardian

In Afghanistan, women cannot move freely, not to school, not to work, not even to a hospital without a close male relative accompanying them – this is the mahram (male guardian) policy.

19-year-old Nabila from the Afghanistan Newsroom interviews three women about Afghanistan’s controversial mahram policy

economics

Best of 2025: Five must-read articles from the Economics section

The global economy didn’t get much room to breathe in 2025. Trade disputes resurfaced in new forms, with the US and China circling each other through tariffs, tech restrictions and shifting supply chains.

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari looks back at the five stories that shaped our understanding of the global economy in 2025

editorial

Relying on AI is a game of caution

As of 2025, around 54% of students use AI (artificial intelligence) in school on a weekly basis. While AI has its benefits, over-reliance can diminish analytical and critical thinking skills. It can reduce students’ creativity, which further increases their dependency on AI to generate their assignments for them. Studies show that over-reliance can potentially reduce critical thinking skills by 75%.

The seven members of Harbingers’ Editorial Board discuss the implications of AI on their generation’s intellectual development and social life

society

Best of 2025: Five must-read articles from the Society section

Without doubt, 2025 has been a heavy year for the world. So how do we cope? At Harbingers’ Magazine, many of us have realised that the way to go is by writing. Whether it be through an article about jokes, nostalgia or shared struggles, the Society section has served as a way to feel connected to teens from all over the world.

16-year-old Lola Kadas looks back at her favourite articles of 2025 from the Society section

film & book club

‘Acting can be one of the most rewarding lives you can choose,’ says actor Maciej Nawrocki

Some actors are recognised for their face, others for a single, iconic shot or sentence. Voice actors live in that strange space where you might not know their name, but you absolutely know what they sound like.

Zosia Dudzic and Mikołaj Tran, both 16, inquire into the challenges of pursuing a career on screen

opinion

The Louvre heist wasn’t a movie, but its security made it look like one

On 19 October, four suspects arrived around 9.30am at the Gallery of Apollo with a vehicle-mounted mechanical lift, using it to reach a first-floor balcony facing the Seine. Photos taken later from the scene showed the ladder still there, leading up to a window, which two of the thieves cut open with power tools before climbing inside.

16-year-old Kexin Shi explores the details of the ‘perfect heist’ and what it reveals about modern-day security

film & book club

‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest did great damage,’ Institute of Psychiatry’s nurses say

Nurse Hanna Conder-Ołowska told us that she had the opportunity to work in an international corporation, but she turned it down.“When you ask why, I’d like to know that myself. Maybe then I’d be making loads of money. I don’t know. This is my place, I guess that’s why,” she said.

Pola Gudowicz, 17, and Sonia Rybus, 16, interview head nurses at one of Poland’s largest psychiatric hospital

film & book club

A book that made me a reader: Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

I feel that I truly became a reader after finishing the first book that really made me think. It not only brought me entertainment, but also made me think about certain things: existence, bonds, the meaning of it all. For the first time, I truly took the time to reflect after reading a story.

16-year-old Aleksandra Tomaszewska opens the debate on how one moves from reading to being a reader

film & book club

‘Best advice I got was: don’t study film production’, says film producer Zofia Kujawska

Zofia Kujawska works in an environment where every frame carries a story, every story carries a risk – and risk is something that has to be embraced, not avoided. In conversation with two Harbingers’ journalists, Karolina Orfinger and Alicja Melaniuk, she explains what being a film producer is actually about.

Alicja Melaniuk, 17, and Karolina Orfinger, 16, inquire on what it takes to work in the film industry

AI & tech

Digitally numb: When overexposure to tragedy makes us feel nothing

Never before have we been so connected to global tragedy, yet felt so incapable of responding to it. Today, tragedy is omnipresent, woven seamlessly into the digitalscape. On social media, images of violence, suffering and catastrophe from current wars, genocides and massacres around the globe drift beside comedy skits and advertisements as if interchangeable fragments of the same stream.

17-year-old Jennie Yao reflects on how AI influences our sense of belonging and empathy towards others

afghanistan newsroom

How aid is delivered in Afghanistan – and why it’s so complicated

In Afghanistan, humanitarian aid is a lifeline for millions, providing critical food, medicine and shelter. This year, 22.9 million people – almost half the population – require humanitarian assistance to survive, according to the United Nations.

21-year-old Ghutai from the Afghanistan Newsroom analyses the problems facing both ordinary Afghans and aid organisations

education

Is the Ivy League still worth it in 2025?

Degree. Career. Stability. That was the formula for generations in the United States. In theory, a college degree brought a stable job, a suburban house with a white picket fence, a green lawn and perhaps a German sports car in the driveway. It was the promise of upward mobility – the gold standard of the American Dream – and at the top of that dream, stood the Ivy League.

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari investigates the Ivy League's relevance amid rising debt and a changing job market

film & tv

The death of the celebrity interview: What needs to change?

Celebrity interviews have lost their depth. When you think of iconic celebrity interviews, moments such as Michael Jackson’s 1993 conversation with Oprah Winfrey or Princess Diana’s 1995 interview with Martin Bashir immediately come to mind.

16-year-old Helena Bruździak argues that modern celebrity interviews need to reclaim genuine curiosity and professionalism

opinion

Sweet matcha trend is ruining the whisked bowl’s taste – and future

But when someone drinks it because of how fashionable matcha is, and to mask its earthy flavour with loads of sugar and sweeteners, it ultimately doesn’t make too much sense — it loses both its taste and the very health benefits that make it unique.

16-year-old Sophie Rytel on what sugar takes away from matcha

politics

The power of the young: How Gen Z is reshaping protest politics

As of 2025, youth-led protests are spreading around the world. The Nepalese protests in September popularised the term ‘Gen Z protests’ and inspired further movements in the rest of the world.

18-year-old Sofiia Didenko reports on the rise in youth-led protests around the world this year

film & book club

‘After all those years, my emotions are totally blocked,’ says war photographer Kuba Kamiński

ABC News’ Kuba Kamiński has taken a camera to the most dangerous places in the world. He witnessed the annexation of Crimea, took pictures at the frontline in Ukraine, filmed Hamas fighters in Gaza, and was there after Israel launched its offensive on the Gaza Strip.

Kaja Majewska, 16, and Klara Hammudeh, 17, ask ABC News’ Kuba Kamiński about the prize – and price – of pursuing war journalism

film & book club

‘Casting is not about who’s the best,’ says casting director Klementyna Szymańska

Have you ever wondered exactly how Margot Robbie became Barbie, and Ryan Gosling was selected to be Ken? How many other amazing actors auditioned for those iconic roles?

In the film industry there is a name for the people who make these decisions – a casting director.

Barbara and Zosia, both 16, interview a person whose job it is to match an actor and the character

traditions

Observations on the Muslim experience in Asia

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. During this period, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food and drink. The fast is broken each day with a meal called iftar, which is often shared with family and friends.

16-year-old Stephanie Kwok takes us to a Ramadan dinner with a Muslim family in Hong Kong to learn their views on integration and traditions

film & book club

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest at 50: Has this film aged too well?

At a psychiatric ward ruled by an all-powerful nurse, Mildred Ratched, only one dared to laugh – Randle McMurphy rebelled against the system and challenged the control and order. Other patients, who remained subordinate to Ratched’s rule, soon turned out to be eager to explore the freedom offered by McMurphy.

Pola Gudowicz, 17, and Sonia Rybus, 16, analyse the strengths and weaknesses of Miloš Forman’s iconic movie

music

Why The Life of a Showgirl left me with mixed emotions

Taylor Swift released her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, on 3 October. The album, which she described as “the record I’ve been wanting to make for a very long time”, was met with divided opinions. While some said it was fun and her best album to date, others felt the ‘showgirl’ concept didn’t work or criticised the production and songwriting.

16-year-old Lola reviews Taylor Swift’s new album from a fan perspective

climate crisis

10 years since the Paris Agreement: Efforts, setbacks and new priorities

The Paris Agreement of 2015 was implemented by all member states of the UN almost exactly ten years ago, on 12 December. Under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), this agreement is a landmark accord, setting out a shared strategy to combat climate change and address it as a global challenge. The deal was quite ambitious – some countries have shown progress and dedication, others have seen a decline in improvement.

17-year-old Varvara analyses progress in countries’ attempts to reduce emissions amid the ongoing climate crisis

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film & book club

Sean Penn steals the show while DiCaprio gets high. One Battle After Another review

Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another is a slow-burning process of exploration of what is left after the battle ends. The movie, set in the aftermath of a failed revolution, tells a story of the wounds that never heal.

Kaja, 16, and Alicja, 17, on why Paul Thomas Anderson’s venture into politics does not meet expectations

film & book club

One Battle After Another will serve as Hollywood’s litmus test for Trump anxiety

This year’s film awards season will launch properly in December, with nominations for the Golden Globes, and culminate in March, when the Academy Awards gala – aka the Oscars – are held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles.

16-year-old Karolina on how Paul Thomas Anderson’s new film might do in this year’s awards season

nepali newsroom

Dengue fever: What is it and how does it affect Nepal?

Dengue fever is a viral infection spread by infected mosquitos, leading to an estimated 40,000 deaths every year around the world. In Nepal there is an increase in dengue transmission during the monsoon season, which usually lasts from June to August.

14-year-old Santoshi explains how dengue fever is on the increase in Nepal

traditions

Meet the Indonesian father of laughter yoga

“Happiness is the medicine”: this is the philosophy by which Indonesian laughter yoga guru Kadek Siwa Ambara lives, builds his career and connects with others. One morning this summer, I had the privilege of sitting down with him in his yoga studio, Ambara Ashram, in Ubud, Bali, to learn about his thoughts, teachings and the journey that shaped him.

16-year-old Lola interviews the man bringing joy to Balinese people through laughter yoga

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film & book club

Does the new Chopin film match the composer’s international fame?

The winners of the 2025 International Chopin Piano Competition were announced last month, once again bringing global attention to Warsaw and the enduring brilliance of Polish composer Fréderic Chopin (1810–1849). The overall winner, Eric Lu, is the first American in 50 years to win this prestigious event.

Antoni, Tomasz and Mikołaj, all 16, review a new biopic of Poland’s most famous composer and key cultural icon

culture

‘I get to live a thousand lives’: Young actors speak out

Harbingers’ Magazine spoke to five young actors, mostly teens, about what it takes to succeed in the field – their hopes, their dreams and their fears. While each had their own perspective, a common thread ran through all their answers: a deep passion for acting.

16-year-old Anastasia Kulikova interviews five actors about the highs and lows of the acting business

opinion

Europe’s politics runs on words, not action: I saw it first-hand

Politics is highly performative: some speak with passion but say almost nothing, others sound like they have stopped caring. I realised this during my one-month internship at the European Parliament, sitting through long meetings between party members and committees.

16-year-old Irma reflects on her month-long internship at the European Parliament and Gen Z’s growing distrust of politics

afghanistan newsroom

What I’ve learned from Afghan journalists who report in secret

As a journalism student in Afghanistan, I live in a country where the truth has become dangerous, and telling it can cost you your freedom – or your life. And yet, every day, I learn from those who do it anyway.

14-year-old Malaika from the Afghanistan Newsroom shares who her role models are and the challenges they face

society

My experience with an eating disorder: The cost of comparison

Almost two years ago, I used to go to dance classes. It was quite a bittersweet experience. I loved learning new choreographies and moving my body, but I hated how every day seemed to unlock a new insecurity.

16-year-old Sofia explores how social media promotes a negative body image and low self-worth

sri lankan newsroom

The wonder of nelu: Horton Plains sees mass bloom after 12 years

The morning sun rises above the rolling hills of Horton Plains National Park casting a golden glow over the endless stretch of purple, pink and blue flowers. This is the long-awaited bloom of the Strobilanthes flowers that occurs once every few years.

16-year-old Hesandi explains a rare natural phenomenon the occurs in the central highlands of Sri Lanka

film & book club

Filmmakers turn back time in Warsaw: Harbingers’ at the Lalka film set

One of major arteries in the centre of Warsaw was closed last month to serve as a filming location for Lalka, an adaptation of the much-loved 19th-century Polish novel and the largest film production currently being shot in Poland.

Zosia Dudzic and Barbara Karsznia, both 16, interview creatives who teleported Warsaw into the 19th century

opinion

Who is basketball’s GOAT? This is my answer

14-year-old Jordan Wang ask who deserves to be named the greatest basketball player of all time

14-year-old Jordan ask who deserves to be named the greatest basketball player of all time

nepali newsroom

Gen Z protests in Nepal: The aftermath

The Gen Z protests in Kathmandu on 8 and 9 September wiped out the KP Sharma Oli-led government in just 27 hours, and left more than 70 dead and hundreds injured. The government came under massive pressure from both the protests and from political opposition parties, resulting in a political vacuum in the country.

Rakshya B.K, 14, and Samuna B.K, 15, from the Nepali Newsroom explain what happened after the protests in September

human rights

Human rights and the UN: What you need to know

The words “human rights” are familiar to everyone and appear daily in speeches by world leaders, on social media or in classrooms. Yet, when words are used so often, their meaning can become blurred. So what do human rights really mean and how does the United Nations (UN) help to protect them?

15-year-old Helena explains human rights and the UN’s role in protecting them worldwide

opinion

Parading in the streets of Lima: My experience with Centro Ann Sullivan Del Perú

This August, I spent two weeks in Peru, and I didn’t see Machu Picchu. Rather, I stayed in the capital, Lima, for a specific purpose: I was going to volunteer at Centro Ann Sullivan Del Perú (CASP).

17-year-old Noah shares his experience with CASP, an organisation that helps people with developmental disabilities to gain independence

nepali newsroom

Gen Z protests in Nepal: Reasons behind the uprising

The protests in Nepal in early September, which resulted in more than 70 deaths and led to the downfall of the prime minister KP Sharma Oli, were a response to several issues that have affected the country for years, and especially the Gen Z population.

The Beginner Group from the Nepali Newsroom explains the reasons behind the recent Gen Z-led protests in Nepal

nepali newsroom

Gen Z protests in Nepal: What happened

Last month, on 8 and 9 September, an extremely significant and unexpected event rocked Nepal when massive protests took over Kathmandu and other Nepalese cities. The protest was started and led by young people, mainly from Gen Z.

Binita, 16, Kriti, 18, and Santoshi, 15, from the Nepali Newsroom report on the timeline of the recent protests in Nepal

AI & tech

Do not let AI think for you, it’s not there yet

It feels like everyone now uses AI for everything, sometimes even when it’s unnecessary. To be fair, chatbots are incredibly useful. They can save us time, help us brainstorm, draft emails and even teach us things. But there’s a catch: we cannot believe everything they tell us and, more importantly, we cannot outsource our thinking to them.

16-year-old Charlotte examines the role of AI in our daily lives and offers advice on how to use it wisely

human rights

Pro-life activists criticise the FDA’s approval of a new abortion drug

The Federal Drug Administration’s (FDA) unpublicised decision to approve a generic version of the abortion drug mifepristone resulted in the White House becoming a target of severe criticism from anti-abortion groups. They accused Trump of failing to take visible action regarding abortion restrictions since the 2024 elections.

16-year-old-Sophie explains the rising tensions between anti-abortion and pro-choice activists in the US

climate crisis

Coast Conservation Dept cleans up Galle beach for new project

It was a relatively secluded beach, protected by a dense wall of trees that blocked access to it, with a few lemonade stands on the edge of the road. The CCD allowed the lemonade stands to continue their business as long as they didn’t cut down any of the trees or build permanent structures. This peaceful and fair agreement lasted for several years.

16-year-old Hesandi investigates development plans for her local beach

AI & tech

Denmark proposes new legislation to combat deepfakes

The legislation amends the Danish Copyright Act 2014 to classify a person’s face, body and voice as works protected under copyright law. Previously, the legislation only applied to creative works such as music, literature and art. This gives citizens of Denmark copyright to their own appearance, so that they can be protected from deepfakes.

18-year-old Sofiia explains why the new Danish legislation could be a model for the rest of Europe

afghanistan newsroom

What the Taliban is teaching boys, and why it matters

Since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, the education system in Afghanistan has undergone a complete overhaul. The ban on secondary and higher education for girls and women has made headlines around the world, but boys’ education has undergone a significant transformation too. But what are the changes and why are they taking place?

16-year-old Aqlima from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains the damaging changes to boys’ education

climate crisis

If global warming was scary in 1997, how is it no one cares today?

On 21 January this year, the day after the presidential inauguration, American president Donald Trump did what everyone expected him to do. He signed an executive order for the US – the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases – to withdraw from the 2016 Paris Agreement, the legally binding international agreement on climate change that aims to limit the rise of temperatures to no more than 2°C above pre-industrial levels.

16-year-old Klara reviews Kyoto, a play that will get you uncomfortably warm

economics

The promises, pitfalls and future of Latin America

Stretching from Mexico through Central America and the Caribbean to the vast expanse of South America, it’s home to more than 670 million people. Common languages – Spanish dominates, Portuguese is widely spoken in Brazil – and shared traditions give the region a potential for unanimity.

16-year-old Arnav reflects on the potential growth of Latin America despite corruption and internal violence

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culture

The Summer I Turned Pretty, season 3: Why do I have mixed feelings?

Few teen dramas have captured Gen Z’s attention quite like The Summer I Turned Pretty. The show follows American teenager Belly through her formative years, her relationship with two brothers and the evolving bonds between the mothers and their children. It’s based on the trilogy by Jenny Han, who is also heavily involved with the Amazon Prime series.

16-year-old Kexin examines the show’s popularity with Gen Z and the controversies around the final season

culture

Why I only ever rewatch one movie

Every 3 January, without fail, I rewatch What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? I know exactly what’s going to happen – I even know more than half of the dialogue by heart – and still, I return. It’s the one exception I make as someone who otherwise dislikes rewatching. This way, I have something to look forward to in January: I’m excited to see this film every year, even if it’s for the millionth time.

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei explains why she refuses to rewatch films, with one very special exception

afghanistan newsroom

How to tackle Afghanistan’s youth unemployment crisis

Afghanistan faces a devastating youth unemployment crisis, leaving many young men and women trapped in despair and facing an uncertain future. Economic instability, limited educational opportunities, a lack of job prospects and years of war and conflict have all contributed to the issue.

16-year-old Mahwa from the Afghanistan Newsroom explores the reasons behind the crisis – and possible solutions

opinion

Why we must stop Gen Alpha’s obsession with beauty products

The first time I realised how powerful beauty marketing has become was when I walked into my sister’s room. Barely 11, she had shelves filled with serums and make-up products that I don’t even use at 16.

16-year-old Irma shares how Gen Z can help address Gen Alpha’s beauty enthusiasm

opinion

Why sex education is essential, especially in the Philippines

Much of what teenagers learn about sex comes from the internet, which is often riddled with inaccurate information and myths. Those without proper sex education are especially susceptible to harmful misconceptions.

16-year-old Samantha highlights the importance of comprehensive sexuality education amid an emerging HIV epidemic

culture

Bali’s complicated relationship with mental health: A look from inside

On the Indonesian island of Bali, mental health is rarely confined to psychology and medicine. Healing here is rooted in spirituality, rituals and community. Where much of the Western world frames mental health as a clinical matter, in Bali it is a matter of mind, body and soul.

16-year-old Lola travelled to Bali to explore the island’s unique approach to psychology and mental health

politics

Political identities: How young voters tipped the scales in Poland’s presidential election

At the ripe old age of 11, I went on my first political protest. Squeezing my mom’s hand, I clutched my Covid mask as we joined the crowd gathering in the centre of Warsaw. Under my arm, I tucked a poster I had meticulously crafted earlier, and now raised for everyone to see. It read: ‘I AM A WOMEN. MY BODY, MY CHOICE.’ (My English has much improved since.)

16-year-old Sophie interviews experts and voters on how the far-right attracted young votes

afghanistan newsroom

Why the world must stop looking away from Afghan women

Since the Taliban returned to power, I’ve watched my dreams shrink. As a teenage Afghan girl, I’ve felt the silence grow louder every day – in classrooms that are now closed to many of my friends, in the fear of speaking up, and in the disappearing support from the world. It’s not just about hashtags anymore; it’s about our lives. And I wonder: will anyone truly stand with us when it matters most?

17-year-old Hadiya from the Afghanistan Newsroom demands real action from the West, not just hashtags and headlines

politics

Five things you need to know about NATO’s ‘5% military spending’ rule

The new 5% military spending quota marks a significant increase in defense budgets, aimed at strengthening military capabilities amid growing geopolitical tensions. Public and political reactions are mixed, with experts divided on whether the increased spending is a precautionary step or a sign of an escalating conflict.

16-year-old Lukas Abromavicius explains why NATO decided to invest billions in firepower

politics

From Kenya to Japan: Eugene Wanyama on finding peace beyond ‘us’ and ‘them’

In times of war and conflict, legacies of the dehumanisation of entire communities remain the most harmful and detrimental. Once the mental division of ‘us’ and ‘them’ is created, societies tend to focus on differences such as language, ethnicity or religion – and these differences can be weaponised to fuel fear, hostility and discrimination.

16-year-old Jamie interviewed Ashinaga Foundation’s educator on his time in Japan

society

‘Future is scary, but still beautiful,” says education activist Emmanuel Lanko Soro

“Pain, struggle and challenges can transform an individual. If we don’t do anything, we are creating monsters for the future,” says the founder of Children’s Smiles foundation.

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh inquires about the role of education in restoring peace

society

Finding balance with fitness and social media

Every day, millions of boys and young men scroll through Instagram and TikTok, envying influencers in their seemingly perfect lives who have the toned, fit body that they are after. Whether they are flexing their muscles in the mirror or taking us through their day, these influencers are inspiring us to get fit, get on the ‘grind’, and look a particular way.

17-year-old Elias discusses the impact of social media on young men trying to get fit, and where the lines need to be drawn

culture

Why is Sony Pictures Animation beating Disney?

K-Pop Demon Hunters, the newest animated film from Sony Pictures Animation, was released by Netflix in June – and was an instant success. The film topped Netflix’s global charts with more than 33 million views in just two weeks, hitting the top ten in 93 countries. Not only that, but the music from the film has also dominated the global music charts, and the song ‘Golden’ will likely be nominated for the 2026 Oscars.

17-year-old Sofiia Didenko explains why Sony’s films are outperforming Disney at the box office

armenian newsroom

Burnout vs emotional crisis: A teen-friendly guide

School deadlines, exam stress, pandemic, wars – life can feel overwhelming, and more teenagers than ever are experiencing long-term exhaustion and fatigue.

18-year-old Alyona interviews psychotherapist Ani Hovhannisyan about teen mental health

nepali newsroom

Mahashivaratri: A festival where tradition meets modern thinking

Mahashivaratri, one of the biggest festivals within Hinduism, is celebrated all over Nepal during the month of Falgun according to the Nepali calendar (in February or early March in the Western calendar).

16-year-old Binita Nepali from the Nepali Newsroom explains how people celebrate one of Hinduism’s most important festivals

opinion

I’m a young Afghan, not a symbol

Every time the world turns its gaze to Afghanistan, I brace myself. Not because I’m afraid of being seen, but because I’m tired of being seen the wrong way.

18-year-old Sama from the Afghanistan Newsroom asks the Western media to treat Afghan girls as human beings

sports

Five of the most bizarre football retirements you’ve never heard of

Football is a pretty unpredictable game, but some stories do tend to follow a certain script. A young, talented player emerges, and everyone immediately starts calling them ‘the next big thing’. The media attention, the massive contracts, the pressure to perform week in and week out – it’s a lot to ask. And for some, it proves too much. They reach the pinnacle of their careers and decide to walk away for reasons that have nothing to do with injuries or a loss of form.

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei explores the many and varied reasons that footballers give up the game

traditions

No, I don’t ride a kangaroo to school: The real Australia

I’ve lived in Australia since I was nine, and I have never ridden a kangaroo to school. I know, I’m disappointed too.

17-year-old Noa Gomberg dives into what it’s really like to live in Australia

afghanistan newsroom

Lessons in the dark: Herat’s secret night schools

In a small, dim basement somewhere in Herat a dozen teenage girls sit huddled around a flickering kerosene lamp. Their notebooks are open, their eyes quietly determined. Hidden behind a thin curtain, this is one of many secret classrooms across the city – spaces where education still breathes under a regime that seeks to suffocate it.

18-year-old Asal from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains how teenage girls are getting an education despite the Taliban ban

society

Are lonely males targeted victims of the ‘red pill’ algorithm?

I have recently noticed how the internet is becoming flooded with content aimed at young men. Much of it puts pressure on men who are already struggling socially, insisting that good genetics, looks, and success with women define their worth.

17-year-old Varvara Tkachenko reflects on the part social media plays in the rise in male loneliness

nepali newsroom

My time in Kathmandu at the Mountain Children Home

As Editor-in-Chief of Harbingers’ Magazine, I was honoured to have the experience of visiting the Mountain Children Home in Kathmandu, Nepal. Since 2023, some of the Home’s 40 children have been working hard as Harbingers’ Nepali Newsroom, producing numerous articles on a wide range of topics.

17-year-old Noah Saphier reports on his recent visit to the Nepali Newsroom

social media

Multiple Instagram accounts: Why do we create them?

I have two Instagram accounts for myself – one main and one spam – but that doesn’t mean I’m living a double life. For Gen Z, having more than one account isn’t about hiding who we are, it’s about expressing ourselves the way we want to. It’s just the new normal.

16-year-old Kexin Shi explains why Gen Zs tend to have more than one Instagram account

opinion

Teens can’t afford gaming as a hobby anymore

Have you noticed that the price of video games and related equipment continues to rise? Recently, I was browsing Steam, an online gaming platform, and the brand-new Monster Hunter Wilds caught my eye, but, oh no – it costs a whopping $70. I guess I’ll have to settle for something older and cheaper.

17-year-old Sofiia Didenko discusses the unaffordability of gaming for Gen Z

2025 japan newsroom

“Japan changed how I see the world”: Henry Baker’s journey from history to data science

As a teenager applying to college, he wrote his Oxford personal statement on Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series, particularly fascinated by the concept of “psychohistory” – a fictional discipline combining statistics and sociology to predict the future. Years later, he realised that psychohistory foreshadowed the core aims of modern data science: modeling the world through agent-based simulations.

17-year-old Katie Chen interviewed a historian-turned-data scientist about his unusual career path

2025 japan newsroom

Article 9: Japan’s constitutional ‘pacifist clause’ explained

The recent 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings has brought renewed attention to Japan’s World War II experiences and to the legacy that still shapes the country’s unique legal position when it comes to war.

18-year-old Elias Malmqvist explains the evolution of Japan’s legal renunciation of warfare

opinion

My journey to Japan’s soul through food

As a connoisseur of good food I come from a place of authority when I say that one of the best ways to know a culture or experience a new country is to know the food.

17-year-old Reva Sobti on why food is the best way to experience new cultures

sports

Can football survive the AI takeover?

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei asks if the use of AI will destroy what makes football so special

politics

What happened in Singapore’s general election 2025

With a new generation of leadership at the helm as well as increasingly unpredictable global issues and politics, the election was not just a matter of party loyalties or policy promises. As voters cast their ballots, the results reveal both continuity as well as some subtle shifts in the political landscape.

16-year-old Zirong Xu summarises the key results and significance of this year’s election in Singapore

education

An introduction to the world of work, Aussie-style

For many high-school students, imagining a future career can feel abstract – until they step into a real-world workplace. This is why many students in Australia try short-term placements in industries or businesses that interest them, to discover what the world of work is really like and whether it’s the right fit for them.

15-year-old Anastasia Kulikova interviews Year 10 students on their experience of work placements

nepali newsroom

Why road accidents are on the rise in Nepal

Hills and mountains dominate much of Nepal, making travelling difficult. There are some trains in the south of the country, but most people rely on road transportation. However, road accidents are very common in Nepal.

15-year-old Samuna B.K. from the Nepali Newsroom looks at the causes of road accidents, and how to prevent them

economics

What the Air India crash means for Boeing and global aviation

Just a few seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad on 12 June, Air India Flight AI171, bound for London Gatwick, crashed into a residential area, killing 241 of the 242 people on board as well as dozens on the ground. The disaster involved Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner, long regarded as the crown jewel of the aviation firm’s commercial fleet and a plane that, until now, had a flawless safety record.

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari examines Boeing’s role in aviation via the recent Air India tragedy

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crisis zones

Haunting portrayal of the refugee crisis in the Polish forests

Watching the movie Green Border (2023) transformed the way I view the refugee crisis. It revealed how deeply entrenched this issue has become in modern times, and drove home just how urgent it is to reform refugee policies.

15-year-old Helena Bruździak reviews Agnieszka Holland’s award-winning refugee movie Green Border

2025 japan newsroom

How to abolish the “tools of the devil,” explains Nagasaki professor Radomir Compel

“Educate yourself about nuclear issues, weapons and energy,” he said. “No matter which perspective you are coming from, promote the idea that nuclear weapons are the tools of the devil.”

16-year-old Jennifer Yung-Coak interviewed a Nagasaki University Professor on the past and future of nuclear disarmament

2025 japan newsroom

The world can go nuclear-free: Exclusive interview with ICAN head

Melissa Parke, the Executive Director of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), believes that denuclearisation is an achievable aim for humanity.

15-year-old Irma Mecelė interviewed Melissa Parke on global disarmament efforts

opinion

The hardest question: “Where are you from?”

Every time I am asked this, I freeze. A list of answers race through my mind and turn into an awkward laugh and an unconfident: “It’s a bit complicated but let’s just say Sweden.”

18-year-old Elias Malmqvist argues that home is defined by people, not places

opinion

Villains are not born – they are made

I often wonder whether psychology plays a role behind the scenes of some of the world’s most atrocious murders. From relationships turned sour to business disagreements that took violent turns — was it fate predetermined by genetics, or was it the result of a series of unfortunate events that shaped a cold-hearted soul

16-year-old Jamie Chan argues that psychology and circumstance are the real drivers behind criminal behaviour

2025 japan newsroom

Why nuclear war is unlikely today

Imagine, you are a tadpole, tasked, sometime in the middle of World War II, with designing the world of 1945. You don’t know if you will be an American soldier headed towards Okinawa, a Japanese civilian in Kokura, or a Soviet spy infiltrating Los Alamos. Your job is to set policy that leads to the most humane outcome – no matter who you turn out to be.

18-year-old Daniel Zhang argues that risks and global shifts since 1945 have lessened the threat

opinion

As overtourism threatens Japan’s economy, let’s try conscious spending

For example, the average cost of a low end meal around Japan is 1,000 yen ($6.76) and a high end meal can cost closer to 6,000 yen ($40.60). If you are not looking for gourmet cuisine, think twice before spending a pretty penny on what could otherwise be an affordable meal — by overspending, you’re pushing the prices up.

17-year-old Reva Sobti asserts the need for tourists to think before spending when travelling in Japan

opinion

The overlooked allies for Gaza’s peace are in Israel

A poll conducted mid-July for Israeli Channel 12 showed that 82% of Israelis supported a hostage deal that would end the war, and only 12% opposed it. Another poll, for the Times of Israel, conducted towards the end of that month, found that 53.2 % of Israelis rejected annexation of parts of the Gaza strip, while 38.9% supported it.

16 year-old Klara Hammudeh on the importance of the anti-war faction in Israel

opinion

Coaches’ pressure can ruin athletes. I learned that the hard way

Until sports organisations enforce policies like independent medical clearance, mandatory mental-health check-ins, and formal use of readiness scales, this cycle of harm will keep going.

17-year-old Katie Chen argues that athletes need more empathy from coaches in their recovery process

opinion

The lesson I learned from falling apart

The worst part about this was that football began to feel like a task. I had lost the fire, the shine and the energy I used to have. I lost that excitement of waking up early on game day. I lost those ceaseless butterflies that come right before the whistle starts the match. I lost that hustle and ‘need’ to be better than everyone else whether that was training or matches.

18-year-old Elias Malmqvist reflects on his journey with football

opinion

Art should be kept away from AI. Period

It is no secret that AI doesn’t have a heart or brain, making it impossible to replicate human emotional depth. There is no story or emotion behind the tiny pixels glaring through our screens, leaving viewers emotionally empty.

16-year-old Jennifer Yung-Coak explores the negative effects of AI on art

2025 japan newsroom

End the nuclear threat until it ends us

Gen Z often tries to joke about it to cope. For example, on TikTok you will see videos captioned “WW3 outfit inspo” or “I want a summer glow-up not a Summer blow-up.” Experts say it’s a defense mechanism – a way to manage overwhelming fear in a world where a single man could decide our fate in minutes.

15-year-old Irma Mecelė on Gen Z’s nuclear anxiety and the urgent need to choose peace over destruction

opinion

The UK’s Online Safety Act is ineffective. Here is why

The UK’s Online Safety Act, which places legal duties on online platforms to protect children from harmful content, starting July 25, is unsafe and fails to achieve its intended purpose. Instead, it creates major cybersecurity breaches and stifles online critical thinking.

16-year-old Lukas Abromavicius on how the Act puts privacy and free speech at risk

climate crisis

Is AI worth its environmental impact?

Artificial intelligence, better known as AI, has been in the spotlight recently, mainly because of its potentially damaging effect on people’s lives and jobs, especially in the creative industries. However, many fail to notice the damage caused by its environmental impacts.

16-year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe examines the disproportionate impact of artificial intelligence on climate change

sports

Europe faces talent drain as young basketball stars flee to the US

European basketball is at a crossroads. Top Spanish clubs such as Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are reportedly considering closing their youth academies, thanks to the drain of talent from Europe to the United States.

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei explains why European basketball is suffering from competition with the NCAA

international affairs

What the world needs to know about the recent G7 summit in Canada

The world’s most influential economic powers recently gathered in the Canadian Rockies for the annual G7 summit. Held in Kananaskis, Alberta, the event brought together leaders from seven of the world’s leading economies, known as the G7: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the US.

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari unpacks the global economic and political impact of this year’s G7 gathering

2025 japan newsroom

Hiroshima 80 years on: What happened and why it still matters

The attack on Hiroshima played a decisive role in ending World War II, its effects on survivors, international affairs and global nuclear policy are still felt today.

Daniel Zhang, 18, Jennifer Yung-Coak, 16, Elias Malmqvist, 18, Lukas Abramovicius, 16, Reva Sobti, 17, and Klara Hammudeh, 16, explore the legacy of the Hiroshima bombing

2025 japan newsroom

Hiroshima marks the 80th anniversary of nuclear destruction

Survivors, bereaved families, representatives from over 120 nations and international organisations, and thousands of Japanese citizens and visitors gathered at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima to mark the 80th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing that killed over 140,000 people.

Irma Mecele, 15, Katie Chen, 17, Jamie Chan, 16, Klara Hammudeh, 16, and Reva Sobti, 17, report from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony

2025 japan newsroom

Hiroshima’s men and women disagree on Japan's persistent gender pay gap

There was a noticeable divergence between male and female respondents. Nearly all male interviewees expressed the belief that gender inequality is not a pressing issue in contemporary Japan. Female respondents painted a different picture.

Katie Chen, 17, Jennifer Yung-Coak,16, and Irma Mecele, 15, interview young people on gender inequalities

2025 japan newsroom

Hiroshima youth hesitant to have children amid financial instability

27-year-old Yuka told Harbingers’ Magazine that she would choose to have children but the financial difficulties are discouraging her.

Klara Hammudeh, 16, Jamie Chan, 16, and Elias Malmqvist, 18, interviewed youth on the decreasing birth rate in Japan

2025 japan newsroom

Hiroshima’s new tram line revolutionises Japan’s public transport

Locals and tourists in Hiroshima are excited for the newly opened tram line – the first streetcar in Japan to run on elevated tracks directly into a station building.

Reva Sobti, 17, Daniel Zhang, 18, and Lukas Abromavicius, 16, report on Hiroshima's long-awaited infrastructure improvement

traditions

Seeing and hearing the Sámi through Juhán’s eyes and voice

I entered the lavvu, the traditional Sámi tent, and was greeted by Juhán Niila Stålka. He was sitting on the left side of the kitchen – traditionally the place where the husband would sit, while the wife would sit opposite. I sat further down, in the area reserved for guests.

18-year-old Elias Malmqvist interviewed a Sámi activist who preserves his culture through joiking

traditions

‘Stolen land’: What Sweden’s ‘green transition’ is costing the Sámi people

For over a century, their land has been exploited by mining companies extracting iron ore and other minerals from the mountains. I am referring to the Sámi people, the Indigenous population living in the north of Sweden.

18-year-old Elias Malmqvist travelled to the Arctic Circle to see how the Sámi are holding their ground

afghanistan newsroom

Politics and social media threaten Afghan tailoring

For Afghan women, tailoring has long been more than just a profession – it has been a gateway to financial independence, self-expression and cultural preservation. Amid societal pressures and limited economic opportunities, tailoring has provided Afghan women with a means to support themselves and their families while maintaining a sense of creativity and purpose.

19-year-old Mahnaz from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains the challenges threatening women’s involvement in the textile industry

crisis zones

Refugee children face schooling and mental health barriers

The crisis facing refugee children is one of the biggest humanitarian challenges of today. Ongoing conflicts around the world in countries such as Afghanistan, Syria, South Sudan and Gaza have disproportionately impacted children, forcing millions to flee their homes.

15-year-old Helena Bruździak reports on some of the challenges facing the world’s most vulnerable people: refugee children

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film & tv

Ginny & Georgia, season 3: Is it as good as the hype?

From truly shocking plot twists to the pains of growing up, this series has it all. It’s no wonder I got through all ten episodes (which are about one hour each) in a single sitting. And I know this season will be added to my rewatch list.

16-year-old Noa Gomberg reviews the third season and explores its complex characters and relationship dynamics

AI & tech

AI won’t replace you – it’ll be your teammate

We all know that AI is transforming jobs worldwide and, with it, the expectations for young people entering the workforce. But what exactly is happening? What does it mean for us and our futures?

16-year-old Charlotte Wejchert interviews tech leader ServiceNow on how AI is reshaping careers for Gen Z

afghanistan newsroom

Two sisters using art to reveal the lives of Afghan women

In a private studio in Mannheim, Germany, two Afghan sisters channel their trauma and resilience into art that defies oppression and reclaims joy. Manizha and Zahra Abbasi, both in their twenties, fled Afghanistan after the Taliban’s return in 2021. They arrived in Germany as refugees, but their journey was not just one of displacement – it was a transformation into artists and activists.

18-year-old Zala from the Afghanistan Newsroom profiles two Afghan women in Germany and their ground-breaking art

education

Why the Secondary Education Examination in Nepal is so important

The Secondary Education Examination (SEE) is one of the most important examinations in the academic life of students in Nepal. SEE is taken by grade 10 students (ages 15–18) and is usually conducted in the last month of the year according to the Nepali calendar (usually February or March in the English calendar).

16-year-old Kriti Tamang from the Nepali Newsroom explains why the results of the SEE exam are crucial for students

international affairs

The Pahalgam terrorist attack and the ongoing conflict in Kashmir

On 22 April, one of the deadliest terrorist attacks on civilians in India in over a decade took place in southern Kashmir, in the Baisaran Valley near the popular resort town of Pahalgam. Five gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists visiting the hill station, killing 26 men and injuring at least a dozen others.

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari examines how the 2025 attack and history continue to shape Kashmir today

music

A ‘perfect storm’ before adulthood: My Open’er experience

Earlier this month, more than 140,000 people made their way to Gdynia, a vibrant port city on Poland’s Baltic coast, for the 22nd edition of Open’er – a festival where music, youth and summer collide. For many Gen Zers, especially high schoolers, it felt like the final rendezvous before adulthood.

16-year-old Nell Dethloff shares her highs, lows and everything in between from the Polish festival

opinion

Spain dominate women’s football – but you wouldn’t know it

In Spain, football culture is huge. There hasn’t been a single day at school when I haven’t heard a conversation about it or taken part in one. Even if you’re not into the sport, you’ll still know what’s happening.

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei asks why women’s football doesn’t get the attention it deserves, as Women’s Euro 2025 kicks off

economics

The impact of the US-China trade war on Southeast Asia

Amid the escalating trade war between the United States and China, one key question emerges: does this global trade war bring new opportunities for Southeast Asian countries, or create more challenges?

16-year-old Samantha De Mesa delves into the impact of Trump’s tariffs on ASEAN countries

society

Violence in schools on the rise in France, government worried

On Tuesday 10 June, a female teaching assistant died after being stabbed by a 14-year-old student during bag checks outside a school in Nogent, north-east France. The male suspect was arrested. French president Emmanuel Macron condemned this “senseless wave of violence”, saying: “The nation is in mourning and the government is mobilised to reduce crime.”

16-year-old Camille Hasbani reports on a recent spate of violence in French schools

opinion

Sometimes I just want to do nothing – and that should be OK

For this reason, it is crucial not to take the term literally. The lesson to take away from the trend is to find a way that you personally like to replenish your body and mind for a short period of time. This might take different forms, like gaming, painting, watching movies, spending a day in PJs, etc.

16-year-old Lola Kadas explains why it is important to relax and take time for yourself

culture

Is English silencing Kiswahili in the Tanzanian education system?

I grew up speaking Kiswahili (also known as Swahili) in Tanzania, where it is the national language and a powerful symbol of unity. I spoke it at home, school, everywhere. To me, it is more than a language, it is a part of who I am.

16-year-old Lidya Gasper says the government must do more to promote Tanzania’s national language, Kiswahili

traditions

Hikikomori explained: Social withdrawal among young Japanese

While social isolation may be present worldwide, there is a specific phenomenon in Japan called hikikomori, which means, according to the dictionary, “the extreme avoidance of social contact, especially by adolescent males”.

16-year-old Lola Kadas explores the phenomenon of hikikomori by unpacking its roots and recent rise

education

Your guide to getting into university in Spain

Picking a university degree is no walk in the park; it’s something that will influence your whole life. “Remember, mistakes happen all the time. Feel free to drop what you are studying and start over with something new,” they say. But, frankly? Starting over is incredibly frustrating and makes you feel like you’ve lost a significant part of your time and effort – scratch that, a significant part of your life.

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei explains the decisions she has to make on her journey to studying journalism

editorial

Why Pride Month matters: Honouring the journey and amplifying LGBTQ+ voices

Pride Month is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, but it can also serve as a launching pad for further discussion about discrimination and other hardships that are still prevalent today.

The Editorial Board acknowledges progress for the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community in society and the setbacks they still face in 2025

film & tv

Why is Hollywood so drawn to Stephen King?

It’s been nearly 50 years since Stephen King published The Long Walk (under the pseudonym Richard Bachman) a dystopian novel about a gruelling annual walking contest. The film version, directed by Francis Lawrence of Hunger Games fame, is being released on 12 September.

17-year-old Sofia Vorobei ponders the lasting appeal of the US novelist, with news of a film adaptation of his book The Long Walk

armenian newsroom

‘The people of Artsakh deserve justice’: An interview with Mary Asatryan

In September 2023, Azerbaijan launched a large-scale offensive on Nagorno-Karabakh (also known as Artsakh), the ethnic Armenian enclave within Azerbaijan. The ceasefire that followed the intense fighting left tens of thousands of civilians displaced, forcing them to flee their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. Most fled to neighbouring Armenia.

17-year-old Nare Arushanyan from the Armenian Newsroom interviews a human rights expert about the struggles of refugees in Armenia

afghanistan newsroom

Balancing tradition and personal freedom in today’s Afghanistan

Afghanistan’s traditional values, deeply rooted in its culture, religion and social practices, serve as the foundation of its identity. These values, such as respect for elders, hospitality, family honour and community unity, have shaped Afghan society for centuries.

14-year-old Malaika from the Afghanistan Newsroom examines the place of tradition in a rapidly changing world

LGBTQ+ rights

LGBTQ+ community face enormous challenges in Nepal, despite reforms

The LGBTQ+ community in Nepal has become more visible in recent years, particularly among young people, after the country’s Supreme Court validated marriage equality for same-sex and transgender couples in 2023. People have have begun to proudly come out in public, often using social media to express their true identities.

16-year-old Binita Nepali interviews prominent activists about LGBTQ+ rights in Nepal during Pride Month

politics

Reading develops our brains. But prioritising page count over quality is a poor strategy

The recent electoral campaign in Poland deepened the shift from traditional media to social media. Far-right candidates, in particular, have successfully utilised TikTok and Instagram to communicate directly with voters, essentially circumventing established media channels. This prompted questions about citizens’ ability to filter out disinformation in a country where readership levels are low.

Harbingers’ reporters from the 2 SLO report from the Literacy for Democracy conference in Warsaw, Poland

music

How a music project is inspiring disadvantaged children in Tanzania

Music has always echoed in the Usambara mountains of Tanzania – from the rhythm of footsteps on hiking trails, to village songs passed from generation to generation. Now, that tradition is taking on a new form. In the remote villages of Mambo and Mtae, school children are using their holiday breaks not just for rest, but for rhythm and self expression.

16-year-old Lidya Gasper reports on the village children singing, dancing and making music videos with the Uvi Foundation

politics

Macron vs the world: A glance through the eyes of French citizens

February 24 was marked by a remarkable meeting in the White House between French president Emmanuel Macron and US president Donald Trump, an event that showed the increasing distance between the two countries.

18-year-old Ashley Solace interviewed residents of Nice, France about their opinion of presidents Macron and Trump

society

Denmark reduces alcohol access for teenagers

The Danish government is restricting the kinds of alcohol those under 18 can purchase.
Previously, 16- to 17-year olds could buy beer, wine and spirits; since 1 April, they can only buy beer or lower-alcohol drinks, up to 6% by volume. Now, you have to be 18 or older to buy drinks with an alcohol content of more than 6%.

17-year-old Varvara Tkachenko explains Denmark’s new alcohol policies and their implications for teenagers

opinion

The paradox of time: too much or too little?

A few weeks ago, I turned 18 and the reality of the contradictory nature of time came crashing through my window. Suddenly, all the comforts of blissful childhood would be gone. The terrors of real-world responsibility and the consequences of legally being an adult were now real.

18-year old Elias Malmqvist explores the importance of time after passing an important milestone in his life

politics

Anti-ICE protests met with military repression in LA

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents recently stepped up their immigration sweeps throughout Greater Los Angeles in accordance with new federal policies. In response, people took to the streets protesting the lack of due process and presumption of innocence afforded to those targeted by ICE.

17-year-old Reva Sobti reports on the ongoing protests in Los Angeles against Trump’s immigration raids

nepali newsroom

Frustration with government brings pro-monarchy protests to Nepal

Republic Day marks the abolition of the monarchy 17 years ago, on 28 May 2008. This followed the shocking royal massacre in 2001, in which King Birendra Shah and several members of the royal family were killed by Crown Prince Dipendra. Gyanendra Shah, the younger brother of Birendra, was king until the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal was declared in 2008.

15-year-old Samuna B.K from the Nepali Newsroom reports on the recent pro-monarchy protests that have rocked the country

social media

Why social media is turning us all into narcissists

Aristotle famously said: “Man is by nature a social animal.” Humans, as a race, are social beings that require connectivity with others in order to function. Something we are very reliant on others for, for example, is how we perceive and value ourselves.

16-year-old Zirong Xu explores how social media perpetuates problematic habits of instant gratification

opinion

What I learned while teaching teenage refugees, and why it matters

I didn’t expect to become a teacher at the age of 15. Yet, there I was, standing in front of a group of Ukrainian refugee students, afraid and stressed – what if I wasn’t good enough? What if they didn’t take me seriously? After all, I was just a teenager myself.

16-year-old Kexin Shi shares her experience of teaching English to Ukrainian teenagers in Poland

politics

Why are women politicians treated so differently from men?

Last November, my family gathered to debrief the shocking results of the US election. Opinions were hurled across the dining tables, uncles and aunts competed to be heard over each other and, as the end of the night neared, the question of who was the better fit for the country – Trump or Kamala – still remained undecided.

17-year-old Reva Sobti is fed up with the games that women in politics are expected to play

sri lankan newsroom

Young girl activists are taking South Asia by storm, one cause at a time

Michelle Obama once said, “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” Today, Harbingers’ Magazine spotlights four remarkable young female activists from South Asia who are proving that there’s no age limit either.

15-year-old Anastasia Kulikova interviews four teenage activists from Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka

economics

Spain is projected to perform better economically than the rest of Europe

According to a report released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on 10 April, Spain is expected to outperform other European countries starting from 2025. This follows a strong 2024, when the country’s economic activity expanded by 3.2%.

17-year-old Sofiia Didenko analyses the recent International Monetary Fund report on Spain’s economy

opinion

Why pulling all-nighters to study isn’t the flex you think it is

I used to think staying up all night to study was just part of being a good student. The pressure to do well, the endless pages of notes, the fear of not knowing everything – it all felt like a good enough excuse to sacrifice sleep. But after experiencing the consequences first-hand, I’ve realised that pulling all-nighters is one of the worst decisions you can make when it comes to studying.

16-year-old Kexin Shi argues that teens should prioritise sleep over studying

sports

David 1, Goliath 0: Palace stun City in FA Cup final

Crystal Palace fans arrived at the 2024/25 FA Cup final on 17 May, clinging to hope but fully aware of the challenge ahead. After all, they were facing Manchester City, one of England’s (and the world’s) most dominant and influential football clubs, and a side hardly known for generosity on big occasions.

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei dissects the footballing drama of this year’s FA Cup Final

2025 polish newsroom

Right-wing Karol Nawrocki wins Polish presidential election

After exit polls released on Sunday evening gave the lead to the liberal mayor of Warsaw, Rafał Trzaskowski, official results announced on Monday morning provided a narrow but clear majority to the nationalists’ camp’s candidate, Karol Nawrocki. He won the presidential election with 50.89% of the vote against Trzaskowski on 49.11%.

The Polish Newsroom reports on the final result, a very tight victory amid an historically high turnout

editorial

Should there be age limits on social media? It’s a difficult decision

Australia has already passed a ban on social media for under-16s, despite Meta’s efforts to launch “teen accounts” with close parental supervision, leading to debates in other countries such as the UK as to whether or not they should do the same. As Harbingers Magazine’s Editorial Board, we have discussed the topic among ourselves

The seven members of Harbingers’ Editorial Board discuss the pros and cons of banning social media for teens

opinion

Letter to a fellow soul-sucked-by-exams student

No matter how much you have prepared, I believe most students would agree that it never feels like enough. With exams, finals and grades to worry about, it’s no wonder we feel like swans; trying to stay cool on the surface while desperately working to stay afloat. Unfortunately, not even ChatGPT knows how to deal with this predicament, so perhaps I can offer some relief in solidarity to all my fellow burnt-out teens

17-year-old Reva Sobti knows the struggle to pass AP exams is real but acknowledges that thankfully their end is near

crisis zones

Finding joy in spite of war: Inside Warsaw's centre for Ukrainian children

A total of 100,000 refugee children and teens have attended the centre since it opened, Agata Gos, the centre’s director, told Harbingers’ Magazine. However, in July it will be closing its doors

15-year-old Helena Bruździak reports on a centre in Poland helping refugee children adapt to their new lives

afghanistan newsroom

Afghanistan’s digital revolution is transforming education

The rise of online education in Afghanistan has become a crucial lifeline for students, especially as access to traditional schools has become restricted. Since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, girls are banned from secondary school and university, making Afghanistan the only country with such a policy – affecting over 1.4 million girls so far

21-year-old Ghutai from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains how online learning is a lifeline for young Afghans

culture

Walking the line between art and crime with graffiti in Australia

I recently visited Hosier Lane and Rutledge Lane in Melbourne – two of the city’s most famous open-air art galleries. Every inch of the walls are covered in street art in different materials and different styles. It’s a ‘free-to-paint’ area, where both local and international artists can express their say without having to ask for permission

15-year-old Anastasia Kulikova visits Melbourne’s famous street art lanes, where artists let their imaginations paint the walls

social media

From Beavis and Butt-Head to skibidi toilet: A breakdown of generational humour

But why did I still find it funny? Why did I still chuckle at every single reel that contained the words “gyatt” and “rizzler”? Was my brain degrading from mindless internet consumption or was it indicative of a larger, more fundamental shift in humour itself?

18-year-old Justin Sau charts the evolution of humour, explaining what makes each generation laugh and why

economics

Egypt’s NAC: The new Dubai or a far-fetched desert dream?

In 2015, under then new president Åbdal Fattah el-Sisi, Egypt unveiled its plans for a New Administrative Capital (NAC), aiming to alleviate Cairo’s chronic congestion, which has made it one of the most overcrowded places in the world, with more than 23 million residents in the Greater Cairo area

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari explores the promises and controversies of Egypt’s new capital project

2025 polish newsroom

Who voted for who? Electoral preferences in the Polish presidential election

To better understand why Poles voted the way they did, and to better predict how they might vote in the future, it is crucial to understand current electoral preferences. How do people’s ages or jobs or where they live impact how they vote? Below we analyse how key factors have played out in past elections in Poland, as well as in the current election

Pola Gudowicz, 16, Maja Dobrosielska, 16, and Tomek Morek, 16, report on how age, sex and location are key factors in voting

2025 polish newsroom

Liberal Rafał Trzaskowski takes a narrow lead in Polish presidential election

Liberal candidate and Warsaw mayor Rafał Trzaskowski took a narrow lead in the first round of Poland’s presidential election on Sunday, setting the stage for a high-stakes run-off on 1 June. The official result was announced on Monday morning, giving Trzaskowski a slightly better outcome: 31.36% against Nawrocki’s 29.54%

The Polish Newsroom reports on the outcome of the first round of voting

film & tv

Forget horror movies, psychological thrillers are what linger after the credits

There’s a difference between horror films and thrillers. The latter don’t rely on the aforementioned factors and tend to focus on keeping the viewer in a constant state of anxiety, as suspense and anticipation build. If done correctly, this can feel genuinely disturbing

16-year-old Sofia Vorobei explains why suspense and mind games are far more frightening than jump scares

opinion

Where did Gen Alpha get the audacity? A Gen Z take

A distinct memory that shapes my perception of Gen Alpha is when a group of friends and I were minding our own business during a break in school when a boy – about the age of 11 – approached and started directly insulting us. He mocked us, based on our appearances and our races, leaving us all flabbergasted

16-year-old Lola Kadas criticises Gen Alpha’s excessive screen time and lack of parental guidance

afghanistan newsroom

The future for Afghan youth: What jobs will be in demand?

Afghanistan’s job market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by worldwide economic trends and technological advancements. As traditional industries change, young Afghans must prepare for emerging opportunities. Understanding which sectors will thrive in the future and what skills are needed will be essential for career success

18-year-old Zala from the Afghanistan Newsroom looks at how young Afghans can adapt to the changing job market

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culture

To boldly go: Has the latest Star Trek movie gone too far?

“To explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before”. So goes the professed mission of the American TV series Star Trek; or so it went at its 1966 inception. The controversial 2025 movie release, Star Trek: Section 31, signals a break in tradition

17-year-old Olivia Campbell explains why Star Trek: Section 31 is worth your time, despite the naysayers

2025 polish newsroom

Why the Polish right keeps winning: Exclusive interview with Andrzej Leder

As Poland heads into the presidential election next Sunday (18 May), Andrzej Leder – philosopher and professor at the Institute of Philosophy and Sociology of the Polish Academy of Sciences – explains why right-wing parties continue to gain ground, not just in Poland, but across much of Europe

The Polish Newsroom interviews the philosopher on the rightward shift in Polish politics and the crisis of masculinity

economics

What I learned from migrant workers in Singapore

“Singaporeans don’t like migrant workers,” says Puma, a 36-year-old Indian migrant worker who cooks in an Indian restaurant that is frequented by his fellow migrants. While it may not be a universal sentiment, his perception reflects a broader issue of social exclusion in the island nation

15-year-old Xu Zirong interviews migrant workers to discover how they are treated in a country that relies on them

nepali newsroom

Why plastic waste is a major problem in Nepal

We live in the Mountain Children Home, located in Dandagaun, north of Kathmandu and on the bank of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The park is a shelter for several animals including bears, leopards and monkeys, and hundreds of species of birds. However, plastics are littered close to and inside the park due to human encroachment, and innocent animals consume them unknowingly, causing them several health issues

Binita Nepali, 16, and Rakshya B.K, 14, from the Nepali Newsroom explain the problems with plastic pollution

ukraine

Young filmmaker’s animation about the war in Ukraine to premiere at Cannes

Born and raised in Kharkiv and now based in Berlin, Piddubna is a filmmaker, artist and activist of Ukrainian and Central Asian Tatar and Bashqort heritage. She has a BA in animation and is currently enrolled in the MA programme as an animation director at the Film University Babelsberg Konrad Wolf in Potsdam. Her work often explores themes of identity, memory and resilience

17-year-old Klaudia Bacza interviews Polina Piddubna on her debut film and the personal story behind it

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culture

Cate Blanchett excels in Chekhov’s timeless tribute to theatre

Anton Chekhov’s 1896 play The Seagull takes place at a country estate by the lake – which is precisely what one sees when sitting at the Barbican Theatre in London. The audience is where the body of water would be, turning the stage edge into the shore, with the centre of the set (designed by Magda Willi) occupied by reeds from which actors emerge. Folding chairs add a relaxed atmosphere of a country retreat

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh reviews Chekhov’s play The Seagull, on a limited run in London

crisis zones

Refugees and migrants, part 2: An international perspective

In March, we started a new Human Rights subsection at Harbingers’, called Crisis Zones. In our first article looking at the lives of displaced people around the world, we explained the difference between the terms ‘refugee’, ‘migrant’ and ‘asylum seeker’ as these are often used interchangeably, even though they have different legal meanings

In her second article, 16-year-old Kexin Shi looks at the problems facing migrants and the organisations helping them

economics

From oil rigs to offsides: Saudi Arabia’s 2034 FIFA World Cup comes at a cost

In October 2023, Saudi Arabia was announced as the host for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. For some, it was a celebratory moment – proof that the kingdom had cemented itself as a rising giant on the international sports stage. For others, it was the latest chapter in what critics term a “sportswashing” campaign: using sport as a way of deflecting attention from human rights abuses

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari explores how Saudi Arabia’s football dreams link to money, power and human rights

social media

Girl, you’re weird… and I love it!

Have you noticed that recently girls are trying so hard to be different, by mismatching outfit pieces, saying quirky things, and trying to have niche interests? It seems to be mainly 14-year-olds and above. As a 17-year-old, I’ve been doing it too

17-year-old Sofiia Didenko explains the “weird girl’ trend that is embraced by every generation, but with a twist

climate crisis

The dangers of soaring temperatures in the Philippines

“Commuting one to two hours to school is unbearable. It has been very hot!” said a 16-year-old student from Cavite City in the Philippines about her recent experience of extremely high levels of heat index in her tropical country. Nearly half of the schools in Manila, the Philippine capital, suspended classes in early March due to soaring temperatures

16-year-old Samantha De Mesa explains the concept of ‘heat index’ and its effect on human health

2025 polish newsroom

How will the election impact Poland’s relationship with the EU?

The upcoming presidential election in Poland is crucial not only for the country itself, but for the future of the European Union as a whole. Ultimately, it will determine whether the country will draw closer to Brussels or take a path of isolationism and confrontation, leading to the possibility of ‘Polexit’ – Poland exiting the EU

Antoni Popczyński and Mateusz Sarna, both 15, investigate candidates’ attitudes towards the EU

women's desk

Abortion in Sri Lanka: a danger if you do and a danger if you don’t

Every day, hundreds of Sri Lankan women risk their lives by having illegal abortions driven by poverty, stigma and the country’s draconian abortion laws. Harbingers’ Magazine interviewed a nurse who used to work in a maternity clinic and frequently had to deal with women suffering complications from illegal terminations

16-year-old Lisindi Liyanage explains legal and social attitudes towards abortion in Sri Lanka

education

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at universities: everything you need to know

In January, US president Donald Trump issued a flurry of executive orders including two that specifically targeted diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in federal government. One specifically targeted actions by former president Joe Biden while the other basically ended DEI programmes within federal government

16-year-old Charlotte Wejchert explains how Trump is cancelling DEI initiatives at US universities

2025 polish newsroom

The ‘Trump effect’? How US politics impact the Polish presidential elections

Originally, it seemed that in Poland’s own presidential election it would be Law and Justice that would benefit the most from Trump’s victory, but in recent weeks the situation has changed drastically. The frontrunner remains Rafał Trzaskowski of Civic Platform

Pola Gudowicz and Maja Dobrosielska, both 16, explain how the US is affecting candidates’ chances

economics

Breaking the dollar’s grip: How BRICS+ is reshaping global power dynamics

The global economic landscape is seeing dramatic change as the BRICS coalition (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) went on an expansion spree last year to include new members Ethiopia, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia is still deciding whether or not to join

16-year-old Arnav Maheshwari explores how BRICS+ is challenging the traditional global economic order

politics

Canada votes on Monday – after Carney calls snap election

Next Monday, 28 April, Canada goes to the polls, after Mark Carney called a snap federal election, just days after he was sworn in as the country’s new prime minister. The election is being held months earlier than the traditional date of the third Monday in October

17-year-old Noah Saphier explains the backdrop to the snap federal election in Canada on Monday 28 April

afghanistan newsroom

When school becomes a dream: The impact of banning education for Afghan girls

Afghanistan’s education system for girls remains in limbo, with an uncertain future hanging over young women’s access to schooling. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, they have imposed a ban on secondary and university education for girls

16-year-old Aqlima from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains the consequences of outlawing female education, four years on

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culture

Mufasa: Disney returns to the Pride Lands to complete the story

Marking the 30th birthday of the world-famous Lion King, a prequel to the original movie was released by Disney in December 2024. Mufasa: The Lion King tells the story of the childhood of brothers Mufasa and Taka, who would become known as the villain Scar in the future

18-year-old Ashley Solace reviews the prequel to the Lion King, which shows the tragic relationship between Mufasa and Scar

politics

Everything young voters need to know about 2025 Australian elections

Australia’s next federal election will be held on Saturday 3 May. This article explains how the voting process works, why it matters, and what young Australians think about the current voting age

16-year-old Noa Gomberg explains Australia’s voting system ahead of the election in May

education

Why teaching philosophy can help children in all areas of life

Many of the four million young people currently being educated in Australian schools feel that the system neglects them. The Grattan Institute, an independent think tank, summarises the state of the nation when it identifies one in four students as “compliant but quietly disengaged”

17-year-old Olivia Campbell argues for making philosophy integral to Australian education

opinion

How Trump’s new America is changing my plans for the future

Like many, I have often imagined myself living in the United States – the land of the free, where millions work towards the American dream. However, Trump’s version of America makes me question whether I still want to live there in the future

16-year-old Lola Kadas explains why President Trump is failing the American dream

ukraine

‘I’m with my students till the end’: A Ukrainian teacher’s fight to survive a school bombing

During my visit to Ukraine in the summer of 2024, I met one of the most courageous people I know: Lyudmila Sakovich, the vice principal of Lyceum Oriana in Lviv. Lucy, as she likes to be called, has worked in education for 14 years – eight of them at this school – teaching Ukrainian, Polish and literature

17-year-old Klaudia Bacza visits a bombed school in Lviv and interviews the vice principal

2025 polish newsroom

War next door: What are the candidates’ stances on the war in Ukraine?

One of the key questions Polish citizens will ask themselves before they vote in the presidential election on 18 May is how the result will influence Poland’s policy towards the conflict in Ukraine. The war between Russia and Ukraine is now in its fourth year, and Poland has borders with both these countries, so the subject is of major concern for Poles

Sonia Rybus and Aleksandra Tomaszewska, both 15, explain why the war in Ukraine is a key factor in the election

2025 polish newsroom

Could far-right candidate Slawomir Mentzen make the second round?

Rafał Trzaskowski, who is also the mayor of Warsaw, currently looks as if he is unbeatable with his 12% lead, but there is the still the third main contender, Slawomir Mentzen – who could still prove to be a big obstacle. Mentzen represents the far-right Confederation (Konfederacja) party, and his numbers have also risen recently

15-year-old Franciszek Józefowicz assesses the three main candidates for president, according to the latest polls

nepali newsroom

Maghe Sankranti, a festival to welcome a new beginning

The festival of Maghe Sankranti is observed throughout Nepal on the first day of the Nepali month of Magh, which is in mid January. It marks the end of winter and the beginning of longer, warmer days

14-year-old Rakshya B.K. from the Nepali Newsroom explains one of Nepal’s most important festivals

culture

Is 1984 happening again? Why we should heed dystopian warnings

The relevance of dystopian novels in the world today is frightening and devastatingly upsetting. Current political and social landscapes bear an unbelievable resemblance to some of the greatest pieces of literature. Are we living out dystopian predictions?

18-year-old Maria Mitko on how dystopian fiction mirrors our world today and why that’s terrifying

culture

Why Scarlett O’Hara from Gone With the Wind is my role model

Scarlett O’Hara is not only one of the most famous fictional female protagonists of all time, but one of the most controversial too. The main character of Margaret Mitchell’s epic novel Gone With the Wind has been a subject of debate since the book was first published in 1936

17-year-old Ashley Solace argues that we should admire and applaud Scarlett, despite her many flaws

science

Money, money, money: The EpiPen price-gouging scandal

The EpiPen scandal for which Bresch was called before Congress in 2016 is just one example of price-gouging in the pharmaceutical industry, a process where prices are increased beyond the level of justification in order to raise profits. This is highly regressive, widening inequalities across the world. In other words, it makes the rich richer, and the poor poorer – both in terms of money and access to healthcare

17-year-old Ananya Prasanna explains the scandal about a life-saving drug that came to light in 2016

climate crisis

How skiers and snowboarders are adapting to climate change

Due to the war in my home country, I moved to Copenhagen 18 months ago, and decided to try freestyle snowboarding – a branch of snowboarding that includes tricks on various obstacles and big air jumps. I found sessions at CopenHill, an artificial ski slope in the middle of the city. After meeting many other free skiers and snowboarders, I realised how popular dry-slope skiing is becoming and that it is directly linked to climate change

17-year-old Varvara Tkachenko explains how she’s learned to love snowboarding on an artificial slope

afghanistan newsroom

Afghanistan grapples with a mental health crisis from war and trauma

Growing up in Germany, stereotypes have always surrounded me – from punctuality to humourlessness. These perceptions stem from history, politics and global impressions. While they might contain a grain of truth, they rarely capture the full picture

17-year-old Asal from the Afghanistan Newsroom explains the psychological and emotional toll of war on the people of Herat

opinion

Germans are never late and can’t party? Gen Z doesn’t quite agree

Growing up in Germany, stereotypes have always surrounded me – from punctuality to humourlessness. These perceptions stem from history, politics and global impressions. While they might contain a grain of truth, they rarely capture the full picture.

19-year-old Flora Lodd examines her generation’s take on five common stereotypes about Germans

opinion

Gen Z teens want a digital detox and to embrace analogue life

As a 16-year-old Gen Z, the digital world has almost always been in my life and a subject of conversation in my community. Throughout my childhood, I remember constantly disagreeing with my parents about the amount of time I spent in front of a screen. I thought I was spending a relatively short amount of time online, but my parents always said it was too much

16-year-old Camille Hasbani admits her parents are right about the use of social media

human rights

Ex-Philippine president Duterte appears at ICC hearing for crimes against humanity

Former Philippine president Duterte was arrested by the authorities of the Republic of the Philippines before being transferred to the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC)

16-year-old Samantha De Mesa reports on Duterte’s arrest on killings linked to the ‘war on drugs’

social media

Online disinformation spreads far-right messaging worldwide

There has been a worldwide shift towards more right-wing and conservative parties – for example, Donald Trump and the Republicans won the US election last November. There can be many explanations for this political shift, though it is certain that the spread of disinformation and fake news online has had an influence on election outcomes

15-year-old Helena Bruździak explores how disinformation and fake news are shaping political landscapes

2025 polish newsroom

Why is Russia trying to influence Poland’s presidential elections?

In Poland, the Kremlin aims to discredit the NATO military alliance and the EU by portraying them as corrupt organisations. Furthermore, it claims Poland is following the American political agenda while assigning blame for any economic challenges to Western policies, rather than to Russian aggression on Ukraine

Tomasz Morek and Igor Rybkowski, both 15, break down Russian misinformation in Poland

crisis zones

Refugees, asylum seekers and migrants: What’s the difference?

The terms ‘refugee’, ‘asylum seeker’ and ‘migrant’ are often used interchangeably to describe displaced people, despite having distinct legal meanings. This article – the first of two on the subject – aims to explain the differences between those terms, which is crucial for discussing migration policies and human rights

16-year-old Kexin Shi breaks down the legal terms related to migration

nepali newsroom

A guide to the ‘eight-thousanders’ in Nepal

Nepal is famous throughout the world as a mountainous country. It has hundreds and thousands of big and small mountains, including the tallest mountain of them all, Mount Everest – known as Sagarmatha (‘goddess of the sky’) in Nepali – at 8,848 metres

The Nepali Newsroom gives facts and figures about the eight mountains in Nepal that top 8,000 metres

women's desk

From South Korea to the US: Why the 4B movement is taking over

The 4b movement focused on women’s agency, which originated in South Korea in the early 2010s, is now spreading across the world, particularly in the US. The movement is based on the belief that men are inherently dangerous and women should avoid any type of relationship with them

18-year-old Ashley Solace examines the growth of a radical feminist movement in the US

culture

‘New Speakers’: Trying to save an indigenous South American language from extinction

The indigenous South American language Guarani is on the brink of extinction, but the New Speakers project run by the Universidad Nacional del Nordeste (UNNE) in Argentina aims to revitalise it. Giustina Gallardi, 18, from Corrientes, has joined the project to learn Guarani, with the hope of deepening her connection to her culture, her environment and herself

17-year-old Anita Stepanyan explains how a project in Argentina is teaching the language and culture of the Guarani

afghanistan newsroom

Afghan women fight for sport amid digital distractions

For Afghan women, sport has long provided a rare opportunity to break free from societal constraints. Amid traditional pressures and limited freedoms, participating in sport promotes physical health and offers self-expression and empowerment. However, two significant challenges – societal restrictions and digital distractions – threaten to limit their participation

17-year-old Sama explains the barriers preventing Afghan girls from getting involved in sport

2025 polish newsroom

Mentzen closes on Nawrocki, raises questions about generational change on Poland’s far right

Some polls already place Mentzen second, but in most he is third and closing the gap with the populist conservative Karol Nawrocki, who is supported by the Law and Justice (PiS) party that ruled Poland until 2023 and from where outgoing president Andrzej Duda originated

Franciszek Józefowicz and Mateusz Sarna, both 15, explain Confederation’s nationalist ambitions

2025 polish newsroom

Between a rock and a hard place, Hołownia falls prey to persistent polarisation of Polish politics

In the last presidential election five years ago, Szymon Hołownia ran as an independent candidate and proved capable of gaining significant public support. Without backing from any political party, he received almost 14% of the votes in the first round, an impressive and unexpected result. However, Hołownia is not one of the most popular candidates in the 2025 race for president

Tomasz Morek and Igor Rybkowski, both 15, on the centrist politician’s fading prospects

music

Long-awaited wins, surprising snubs and fantastic music: The Grammys 2025 were pure entertainment

A night of spectacular performances, sparkling fashion and fundraising for the LA fires, the 2025 Grammys were full of excitement and celebration for a shining year of music. The biggest date in the US music industry’s calendar, this year’s event – held on 2 February in Los Angeles, California – included more than 20 performances and awards in 94 categories and was exhilarating for music lovers across the globe

18-year-old Alia Saphier reviews the US music industry’s biggest night after an unforgettable year

sri lankan newsroom

Elephant deaths from train crashes in Sri Lanka soar

Sri Lanka’s death toll for elephants from train crashes has already surpassed the figure for 2024 following a tragic accident on 20 February. A train collided with a herd of seven elephants in Polonnaruwa district, North Central province. Six elephants, four adults and two calves, died. Only one adult elephant – a pregnant female – survived

15-year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe reports on the train crash that killed six elephants in Sri Lanka

nepali newsroom

An introduction to an unusual traveller and our friend

Lloyd Martin was born in 1960 in England, but as a child he lived in Malta, a small island in the Mediterranean Sea. His parents allowed him to travel alone when he was just 15 – and this was the start of his wanderlust

15-year-old Samuna B.K. from the Nepali Newsroom interviews Lloyd Martin, a frequent visitor to the Mountain Children’s Home

opinion

The death of movie etiquette: Why I dislike going to the cinema

It’s a known fact that, for many, going to the cinema represents the pinnacle of entertainment. For me, however, it feels more like an exercise in endurance than an enjoyable experience

15-year-old Sofia Vorobei explains why going to the cinema nowadays isn’t the pleasure it should be

society

Why you buy: The psychology behind advertising

Do you ever wonder what makes you want to buy certain things? The answer lies in the psychological tools used by advertisers. Businesses often use clever strategies to boost their chances of winning over customers

16-year-old Lola Kadas explains psychological principles that influence consumer behaviour

2025 polish newsroom

From veto to diplomacy, the 2025 presidential election can break the deadlock in Polish politics

The polling stations of the 2025 presidential election will open on Sunday 18 May. If none of the candidates secure more than 50% of the popular vote – and polls indicate that this will not be the case – the second and final round will take place on 1 June

Maja Dobrosielska and Pola Gudowicz, both 16, explain the role of the president in Poland’s constitutional system

2025 polish newsroom

Karol Nawrocki has the support of Law and Justice, but lacks a clear agenda

Just a few months ago, not many of his current supporters even knew who Karol Nawrocki was. Law and Justice disadvantaged his standing even further by waiting for almost half a year before officially endorsing him. Currently, the little-known historian comes second in most polls, but his campaign faces many challenges, from consistency in messaging to the lack of a clear programme

15-year-old Antoni Popczyński profiles the candidate who would continue Andrzej Duda’s obstruction of Tusk’s agenda

politics

Will Rafał Trzaskowski repeat Kamala Harris’s errors?

For many, the only thing that comes to mind when they hear the name of Rafał Trzaskowski, is that he is the mayor of Warsaw. Becoming the mayor of Poland’s capital in 2018 has been the crowning achievement of his career so far, but in May, he will yet again attempt to win the highest office and become the next president of Poland

Aleksandra Tomaszewska and Sonia Rybus, both 15, explain the dilemma facing the Civic Platform candidate

film & tv

Is this real life?

While this article does not intend to approach that question or give you an existential crisis, as with such mind-bending movies as Inception (2010) or The Matrix (1999), I do intend to explore the question of how film can affect our reality. The big question for film fanatics like myself is: do movies mimic life or does life mimic movies?

17-year-old Reva Sobti asks if films and the media reflect society or magnify its darkest issues

economics

Why I chose stocks over Fortnite – and never looked back

The longer you invest for, the greater your capacity to weather market volatility and profit from your growing investments. Being teens, we have decades in front of us and can afford to take calculated risks, knowing that we have time on our side. Why not harness this advantage to build a financial foundation that can set you up for life?

15-year-old Arnav Maheshwari shares his investing journey, and explains how you can do it yourself

women's desk

Redefining femininity: Who is rugby and TikTok star Ilona Maher?

Say hello to Ilona Maher, a 28-year-old American rugby player and TikTok star, who has captured hearts worldwide. Recently, she gained recognition as the runner-up of the US show Dancing with the Stars, an American dancing competition

17-year-old Maria Mitko profiles the US Olympic athlete, an inspiration for girls worldwide

opinion

My very Jewish Christmas

In my household, the 25th of December is dedicated to every holiday movie Netflix has to offer, especially the cheesy, guy-gets-the-girl romcoms. It’s our tradition and I’m a sucker for a running-through-the-airport scene. But there’s always something missing

16-year-old Noa Gomberg dives into the history of antisemitic tropes in culture and entertainment

afghanistan newsroom

Education is vital for Afghanistan’s youth, especially in rural areas

In Afghanistan’s rural areas, education is a rare treasure often out of reach due to isolation, poverty and cultural barriers. A UNESCO report from 2024 reveals that 1.4 million Afghan girls have been denied schooling, with 1.1 million fewer children attending school compared to 2020, before the Taliban took over

19-year-old Nabila explains how youngsters in poor rural areas struggle to get an education

opinion

My fond farewell to Harbingers’

As I and the rest of the 2024 editorial board are also spending our final few days at Harbingers’ Magazine, I thought it was fitting for us to have a little celebration of our work over the past year. This is in no way a complete or conclusive set of thoughts and opinions from everyone involved, but just a few musings, which I believe the staff and our readers might appreciate and have a laugh at

18-year-old Christian Yeung says goodbye to the publication and the 2024 editorial team

women's desk

Young women react to new law on female military conscription in Denmark

The Danish Parliament changed the law on military conscription in Denmark last year, extending the length of service from around four months to 11 months, increasing the annual number of conscripts from 4,700 to 7,500, and requiring women to be equally subject to conscription as men. The eligibility of candidates is based on their physical and mental health

16-year-old Camille Hasbani interviews girls in Denmark on military conscription for women

women's desk

Menstruation and the experience of Nepali girls amid many taboos

Although menstruation is a natural process, it has negative connotations in some communities around the world. Menstruating women are considered impure and unclean, and face strict taboos about what they can and can’t do. This happens in certain parts of Nepal

15-year-old Samuna B.K. talks to girls in Nepal about the beliefs and practices around menstruation

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culture

Spectacular acrobatics, but without the story or magic of The Greatest Showman film

As a fan of the 2017 movie musical The Greatest Showman, I was an obvious candidate to see the new Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular at the Empress Museum in London. I have to say that I was greatly disappointed, as many elements of it failed to reach my expectations

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh reviews a new show that fuses songs from the hit movie with circus acts

women's desk

Tanzanian government takes steps towards gender equality but women and girls still face challenges

When Samia Suluhu Hassan became Tanzania’s first female president and the only woman head of state in Africa in 2021, women and girls around the country were hopeful. In the course of her presidency, Hassan has made a lot of changes within the country, including encouraging more participation from women in political processes. However, there remains a fundamental difference in opportunities and access to rights between men and women

15-year-old Lydia Gaspar explores the improvements and challenges within women's rights in Tanzania

politics

Who will replace Trudeau? And who will win the next election?

After ten years, Justin Trudeau’s leadership of Canada is coming to an end. But does Trudeau’s resignation mean the end of Liberal control of Canada? Currently, the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, is ahead in the polls, at around 39%, with the Liberal Party on 29%

16-year-old Noah Saphier assesses the candidates to become the new leader of Canada’s Liberal Party

women's desk

Five overlooked female journalists who highlighted injustice across the world

Journalism, like many others, is a field dominated by men, and while there are more and more female journalists, it is still far from equal. In 2020, the Global Media Monitoring Project found that it would take 67 years to close the gender gap

17-year-old Maria Mitko introduces five women who broke the glass ceiling in journalism

opinion

My journey to self-appreciation and what I learned along the way

I’ve learned that growth often comes from discomfort. While I’ll always appreciate my introverted roots, I now embrace opportunities to connect with others, knowing that the most meaningful moments often happen when we step out of our comfort zones

19-year-old Flora Lodd shares how learning to be an extrovert changed her view on self-worth

science

Conflict between humans and elephants at all-time high in Sri Lanka

The Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) is a growing problem in Sri Lanka, with 176 people and 470 elephants killed in 2023 – an all-time high. Habitat loss, large-scale development projects and increased interactions between humans and elephants are the main reasons

15-year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe explores the lived realities of human-elephant conflict in Sri Lanka

climate crisis

What will rise from the ashes of LA?

The future of those affected by the fires is uncertain. The road to recovery will involve the allocation of resources to clean up and rebuild in times where climate change leads to yet more unpredictable weather conditions – and possibly more deadly and more dangerous fires

17-year-old Reva Sobti answers key questions about the aftermath of the Los Angeles fires

politics

How the UK plans to lead the AI revolution

17-year-old Jefferson He unpacks the UK’s ambitious new plan for innovation and growth in AI

opinion

Three dots aren’t always bearers of bad news…

Has your heart ever skipped a beat upon receiving a text from your parents ending with those dreaded three little dots? Mine certainly has – more times than I can count. Whether it’s a curt “We need to talk…” or the ominous “It’s time to get home…,” an ellipsis always carries an undertone of passive-aggressive unease

16-year-old Charlotte Wejchert on generational differences in the use and meaning of the ellipsis

climate crisis

Floods, landslides and rising temperatures: How climate change is impacting Nepal

Global warming refers to the long-term warming of the entire planet. It has increased significantly over the last century as a result of the combustion of fossil fuels

16-year-old Binita Nepali explores how the climate crisis is affecting her homeland of Nepal

social media

Goodbye, and thanks for the memories: Thoughts on Australia’s social media ban for under-16s

Australia has recently passed a measure to ban social media for under-16s. What are the benefits and costs of this decision? And will it do anything at all?

17-year-old Olivia Campbell considers the implications of Australia’s ban on social media for teens

economics

How Argentina went from ‘almost an aristocracy’ to being crippled by poverty, debt and inflation

In the early 20th century, Argentina was seen as one of the richest countries in the world. So how did a nation with the potential to become a “massive industrialised power” similar to the US, become crippled by triple-digit inflation, fiscal deficits and soaring external debt?

17-year-old Camilla Savelieva explains Argentina’s economic woes from the 20th century to now

health & wellness

Ozempic: Miracle drug or a symptom of society's weight-loss obsession?

Ozempic and Wegovy, both manufactured by Novo Nordisk in Denmark, cause weight loss by encouraging you to eat less, in simple terms. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorised Ozempic for managing type-2 diabetes, but not for weight loss. Wegovy is authorised to treat cardiovascular disease and obesity

18-year-old Emilia Wilkin explores the potential implications of Ozempic’s rise in fame

women's desk

Stripped: Women’s lives under the Iranian regime

On 2 November, a student at Iran’s Azad University had her headscarf and clothes violently torn by Basji volunteers – a terrorist paramilitary group that attacks and detains those who protest against the Iranian regime.

16-year-old Noa Gomberg dives into the brutal reality of women's lives under the Iranian regime

human rights

‘Duty drives us to act’: How Jordan’s state, business and society support Gaza’s civilian population

The most emotional experience for me was talking to kids from Gaza, who were diagnosed with cancer and whose treatment was arrested by the war. Access to medical help in Gaza is extremely limited. The Gaza’s health ministry claims that more than 110,200 people have been injured in the war. Thousands are also ill as a result of water and food shortages, and poor sanitation

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh interviews those receiving and providing aid for Gaza

women's desk

When the world was silent, these Artsakh mothers spoke out

Azerbaijan began its nearly ten-month blockade on 12 December 2022, when it cut access to the Lachin Corridor, known among Artsakh residents as ‘The Road of Life’, as it is the only route connecting their ancestral homeland to Armenia and the outside world.

18-year-old Alyona Sargsyan shines a light on refugee women’s fight for their rights

education

Danish youth dismayed by the government’s proposed education reforms

The Danish government announced changes last November to the country’s education system, which include creating a new type of high school for vocational courses, abolishing the optional extra year between middle school and high school, and stricter entry requirements for regular high school

17-year-old Varvara Tkachenko interviews Danish students about the new high school system

politics

Will Rachel Reeves’ first UK budget bring pain or gain?

The UK’s first female chancellor, Rachel Reeves, announced a series of tax hikes last October that would fund investment in public services including schools and the NHS

17-year- old Camilla Savelieva assesses Rachel Reeves’ proposals for tax hikes in the UK

health & wellness

For your listening pleasure: A guide to the best and safest headphones

Types of headphones differ on the basis of connectivity (wired or wireless); fit (over-ear, on-ear, open-ear, earbuds, in-ear); design (closed-back, open-back, headset); and whether or not they are noise-cancelling. All of these elements come together to decide how enjoyable – and healthy – your listening habits are

15-year-old Anastasia Kulikova explores the dos and don’ts of headphone and earphone use

economics

Trump 2.0: What small business owners expect from 2025

As Donald Trump returns to the White House, America’s 34 million small businesses are bracing for what comes next, with a mix of optimism and uncertainty.

15-year-old Arnav Maheshwari interviews Atlanta business owners about Trump’s economic policies

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culture

The Devil Wears Prada still works, but today’s Miranda Priestly would not be able to bully Gen Z

As a young journalist who some day wants to dive into the world of fashion industry, The Devil Wears Prada, the new West End musical, was a must for me. The show, described by Vogue’s legendary editor-in-chief Anna Wintour as “entertaining and fun”, was a thought-provoking experience.

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh reviews the West End musical version of the Meryl Streep smash-hit movie

elections

Trump 2.0: Trump’s anti-immigration rhetoric turns into action

Trump has now officially taken office and already begun putting his plans into action, signing a flurry of executive orders regarding immigration. Some are as extreme as vowing to end birthright citizenship – the automatic citizenship that is given to anyone born in the US. This is a constitutional right that has long been protected by the 14th Amendment, and the president cannot overturn it alone. More than 20 states have already challenged the order

16-year-old Noa Gomberg dives into the immigration policies that could shape the future of the US

nepali newsroom

Why Nepal needs to have a modern, up-to-date education system

In Nepal, the education system is structured into primary, secondary and higher education. In this age of new technologies, it still follows traditional methods of teaching and learning. Technology and skills are extremely critical for this generation, alongside education

14-year-old Samuna asks students and a teacher for their thoughts on Nepal’s education system

AI & tech

How online scams have taken over Singapore

In recent years, scams have become a growing threat in Singapore, affecting individuals across various demographics. Impersonation calls, email phishing and other sophisticated methods have left Singaporean citizens vulnerable. According to the Singapore Police Force, out of 28,751 total cases of cybercrime between January and June 2024, scams accounted for 92.5%

15-year-old Zirong Xu explores the alarming rise in online scams in Singapore

international affairs

How different are Western and Arabic perspectives on the Middle East crisis?

Harbingers’ Magazine went to Jordan to get a better understanding of how the perception of this conflict differs in a country that is one of Palestine’s closest allies. As Jordan University’s Dr. Areej Jaber, interviewed in Amman, said: “The Palestinian cause is a Jordanian cause – a matter of shared destiny, shared history, and shared political struggle”

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh looks at the facts and emotions behind the decades-long Middle East crisis

music

Taylor Swift deserved the top spot at Billboard. Period

In early December, Billboard released its editorial ranking of the greatest pop stars of the 21st century, crowning Beyoncé at number one, followed by Taylor Swift. While the list celebrates two extraordinary women, it upset many fans, including myself

16-year-old Lola Kadas argues that Taylor Swift’s cultural influence makes her the top pop star

elections

Trump 2.0: What is the future for reproductive rights in the US?

Given Trump’s notoriously inconsistent statements over the years on abortion and broader reproductive rights, it is difficult to create a full and accurate analysis of what might happen once he is in office.

17-year-old Olivia Campbell looks at reproductive rights in the US, with a focus on Project 2025

economics

Trump 2.0: How will you be affected by Trumponomics?

During his campaign, Trump claimed he would revitalise the US economy, pointing to lower prices of goods during his previous presidency as evidence. As a result, many Americans voted for him in hopes of solving their financial struggles. What policies did they endorse? How effective will “Trumponomics” be?

16-year-old Noah Saphier outlines the key elements of the new president’s economic policy

climate crisis

What is climate anxiety? And how do we cope?

A growing number of individuals, especially young people, experience what is now termed ‘climate anxiety’ or ‘eco-anxiety’ – a phenomenon illustrating that climate change is not only an environmental crisis but a psychological one as well. Climate anxiety is not classified as a mental illness

18-year-old Maria Mitko looks at the mental health impacts of the climate crisis

politics

What do teens in Spain think about the ‘Delcygate’ case?

Harbinger’s Magazine interviewed four teenagers living in the Alicante province of Spain about what they think about the ‘Delcygate’ scandal. All are international students. Regarding potential corruption within the government, their opinions vary between disappointment and worrisome

17-year-old Sofiia Didenko looks at the controversy about Delcy Rodríguez and the Spanish government

afghanistan newsroom

Welcome to the new Afghanistan Newsroom

In Afghanistan, where the Taliban’s restrictions have silenced the dreams of many young girls, a resilient group of students refuses to give up on their aspirations. Despite being denied access to education, including a recent restriction on being midwives or nurses, these ten determined girls are boldly pursuing their goals, from becoming doctors and business leaders to journalists

Ten female LEARN Journalism Club students writing for Harbingers’ Magazine share their hopes

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film & tv

I am entertained, but I am not impressed

With Gladiator II, the sequel to the hugely successful Gladiator (2000), the coin rattles and spins on the table, teetering dangerously back and forth before landing disappointingly within the latter class of Ridley Scott films

17-year-old Justin Sau reviews Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, sequel to his 2000 mega-hit Gladiator

women's desk

‘I want the world to hear our story’: The hope of Artsakh’s displaced

During the blockade, schools were forced to close due to a lack of funding, food, gas or electricity. Children’s right to education was undermined, and the number of deaths increased. Despite these inhumane conditions, young people did everything to be useful to their homeland; the desire to live and preserve our homeland was above all. One of those was Gaya Sargsyan – now aged 30 – who gathered other young volunteers to hand out food and aid during the blockade

18-year-old Laura Danielyan talks to youth leader Gaya Sargsyan about the pain of the Artsakh blockade

education

Trump 2.0: Could Trump actually ban the Department of Education?

Trump’s remarks are deeply rooted in the Republican belief that the government has used the DOE as a tool for indoctrinating classrooms with “liberal ideologies”. Since winning the presidency in November, he’s promised to “cut federal funding for any school pushing critical race theory, radical gender ideology, and other inappropriate racial, sexual, or political content on our children”

17-year-old Reva Sobti looks at what might happen to the US education system under Trump

human rights

Ex-president Duterte under scrutiny for Philippine war on drugs

Former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign against drugs left thousands dead. Now he’s facing the consequences

15-year-old Samantha De Mesa reports on the inquiry into human rights violations in the Philippines

politics

Trump 2.0: What has happened since Trump took office?

On Monday (20 January), Donald J. Trump was inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States, making a dramatic return to the Oval Office. In the days beforehand, Trump orchestrated key moves behind the scenes, then delivered an inaugural address packed with familiar campaign promises, and capped off his first day with a stream of executive orders. Trump’s approach to his second administration promises to be anything but quiet

17-year-old Emily Dorman explains the new president’s whirlwind of executive orders and promises

AI & tech

How we plan to reach for the stars: Our journey with CanSat

Our AstroSat team, consisting of four students from Warsaw, including myself, is participating in the European Space Agency’s (ESA) prestigious CanSat 2024–25 competition. Together, we aim to transform our classroom knowledge into a tangible mission by designing, building and launching a fully functional miniature satellite

17-year-old Fryderyk Boniecki on his team’s mission to build a fully functional mini satellite

health & wellness

The dangers of romanticising mental health on social media

While it is understandable for teens to seek free mental health advice, self-diagnosis can lead to serious consequences. Without professional guidance, some may pursue inappropriate solutions, such as taking medication unsafely or misinterpreting the symptoms entirely

15-year-old Lola Kadas explains the self-diagnosis trends on social media and their potential risks

opinion

Classics vs. clichés: The lost art of love in literature

In a recent class, our teacher told us to read a simple, crude juvenile book about love. When asked why we weren’t being given a more challenging novel, their response was simple: “These books are supposed to appeal to teenagers. If we gave you a classic, you’d get bored and just not read it.”

15-year-old Sofia Vorobei argues for why it’s still important to read Jane Austen and other classics

politics

Young Germans troubled by far-right gains in recent elections

The recent success of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in last September’s elections has raised deep concerns among Germans, especially the younger generation. For the first time since World War II, a far-right party won a state election, securing victory in Thuringia and placing second in Brandenburg and Saxony

19-year-old Flora Lodd talks to her peers about the AfD’s rise and its impact on their future

nepali newsroom

Meet some of the ‘national heroes’ of Nepal

Nepal may be a small landlocked country between two growing economic giants, China and India, but It is also an unusually diverse country, with contributions from a long line of “national heroes, personalities and luminaries”. Here are a few of these important personages, presented in chronological order

14-year-old Rakshya B.K. explores some of the most significant men and women in Nepal’s history

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culture

Exploring Nepal through its tradition of multiple genders and matriarchal values

The 88-minute film explores Nepal’s matriarchal heritage through the figure of Ajima, a grandmother goddess in the Tantra tradition who embodies wisdom, protection and fertility

17-year-old Jefferson He reviews the 2024 documentary Ajima and 6 Gender Identities

women's desk

Gen Z on feminism: ‘Your definition is not my definition’

When asked “What comes to mind when you hear the word ‘feminist’?”, respondents provided a wide range of instant reactions in Harbingers’ recent survey of Gen Z attitudes. From positive associations such as “equality” and “empowerment” to more critical terms like “annoying”, “radical” and “anti-man”

16-year-old Charlotte Wejchert reports on Harbingers’ survey into teen attitudes towards feminism

women's desk

Five overlooked female composers from the 11th century to now

‘Where words fail, music speaks’ – a tribute to the power of music, from the famous Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. Yet, as is the case for many professions, music has been historically dominated by males, with female composers’ incredible contributions often overlooked and forgotten

18-year-old Ananya Prasanna shares the stories of five female musicians who deserve to be famous

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film & tv

Is The Wild Robot the best animated movie of 2024?

As much as I’m looking forward to becoming an adult, I’m obviously completely terrified. After almost 18 years of constant familial care, I feel like an astronaut soon to be jettisoned from the shuttle, left to float in the vast expanse of space. When I sat down to watch a children’s animated movie, I wasn’t expecting it to capture these feelings so perfectly

17-year-old Justin Sau sheds a tear at Dreamworks’ latest offering, a heartfelt coming-of-age story

sports

Dreaming big: three teenagers join Sri Lanka’s women’s football team

Three talented young girls from a rural seaside village in Sri Lanka have joined the country’s under-17 national women’s football team in a triumphant conclusion to a story about beating the odds

15-year old Hesandi Ravisinghe talks to a trio of inspiring players from a seaside village

science

‘Sing with me, sing for the year, sing for the laughter, sing for the tear’

Singing isn’t just a way to enjoy music—it’s a powerful tool for mental and emotional well-being. Scientific studies and personal experiences suggest that singing can bring numerous benefits, from reducing stress to boosting self-confidence

17-year-old Mady Cheng explains the benefits of singing and music on mental and physical health

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film & tv

Wicked: a visually stunning musical that lives up to the hype

Personally, I was really excited to see the film adaptation, because Wicked was the first stage musical I ever saw. I went with my mom when I was six, and was completely awed. I wanted to find out how the film compared with the Broadway show: better or worse? Or was the all marketing and the Wicked-themed candles just a way of getting into the heads of ‘theatre kids’?

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh reviews Wicked, the film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical

elections

Trump picks inexperienced loyalists for his top team

Trump’s picks have sparked controversy across the political spectrum. While some will face heated Senate confirmation battles, others will be appointed automatically. What stands out about his selections to date is what they share in common: they are extreme, inexperienced and unwaveringly loyal to Trump himself. As he assembles his ‘MAGA Avengers’, the question arises: will this set a precedent for future presidents to prioritise loyalty over ethics and experience when making key appointments?

17-year-old Emily Dorman analyses the president-elect’s controversial choices for key government jobs

science

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Science section

This year, the Nobel Prizes for Chemistry, Physics, and Physiology or Medicine went to computational protein predictions, machine learning in artificial neural networks, and miRNA, respectively – incredible discoveries, changing the future of science. These are only a few examples from the bucketfuls of published papers, awe-inspiring lab results and advances in scientific theory

17-year-old Ananya Prasanna shines a spotlight on her favourite Science articles from the past year

climate crisis

Sri Lanka survivors remember the Indian Ocean tsunami, 20 years on

On 26 December 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami struck, one of the deadliest natural disasters in recent history. The tsunami affected 18 countries around the Indian Ocean, including India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Maldives, Sri Lanka and Thailand, claiming the lives of at least 225,000 people and causing immense environmental devastation. Harbingers’ Magazine spoke to some of the survivors in Galle, who are still feeling the impact of the experience, 20 years later

15-year-old Anastasia Kulikova revisits the tragedy of the Boxing Day tsunami on its 20th anniversary

economics

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Economics section

This has been a turbulent year in terms of economic news. With many transitions of leadership across the world, from elections in the UK and the US to new leaders being named in Vietnam and Senegal, the economy has followed suit in its many fluctuations and uncertainties over 2024

17-year-old Camilla Savelieva shines a spotlight on her favourite Economics articles from the past year

science

Everything you know about pitbulls is wrong

The negative stereotypes of pitbull dogs, labelling them as aggressive and dangerous, have been around for too long. The bias has affected the perception of this sweet dog breed. Almost everything you’ve heard isn’t true

18-year-old Emilia Wilkin defends pitbull dogs against negative stereotypes about their behaviour

society

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Society section

2024 has been a pretty chaotic year for us here on Earth. In each corner of our own little societies, whether you’re reading from Asia, the Americas, Europe and beyond, we’ve each had a lot on our plate (on top of your no doubt already busy lives, of course). We’ve seen multiple contentious elections, some excellent movies, the MET Gala, the many different perspectives of Gen Z and everything in between

18-year-old Christian Yeung shines a spotlight on his favourite Society articles from the past year

international affairs

Philippines calls for diplomacy amid tension over the long-running South China Sea dispute

The history of the Philippines continues to tell us a story of our fragmented yet significant past, which remains relevant in solving disputes in the contemporary era. One of the longest-running and most complicated disputes is with China, over ownership of the West Philippine Sea and the various islands, reefs and waters within it

16-year-old Samantha de Mesa is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: International affairs

international affairs

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the International Affairs section

As Harbingers’ Editor-in-Chief and a former Politics Section Editor, I’ve curated a list of five standout articles from the International Affairs and Politics sections. Presented in chronological order, these pieces capture the key themes that defined our coverage in 2024

17-year-old Jefferson He shines a spotlight on his favourite articles from the past year

women's desk

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Women’s Desk section

Every article published in Women’s Desk this year has left its mark, but a few stand out for their exceptional writing or compelling subject matter or worldwide relevance. As the Women’s Desk Section Editor, I’ve compiled a list of five articles that I think everyone should read, presented in chronological order

17-year-old Maria Mitko shines a spotlight on her favourite Women's Desk articles from the past year

culture

Best of 2024: Five must-read articles from the Culture section

Every article published in the Culture section this year has had its own spark, but a few stand out for their exceptional writing, unorthodox subject, worldwide relevance – or all three. As editor of the section, I’ve compiled a list of five articles that I think everyone should read, presented in chronological order

17-year-old Justin Sau shines a spotlight on his favourite Culture articles from the past year

social media

YouTuber social experiments: Where do we draw the line?

15-year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe unpacks Youtuber Nikocado Avocado’s controversial online persona

culture

‘I have an obligation, to speak for them’: My conversation with a Holocaust survivor

Growing up in the US as the granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, it was hard to reconcile my Jewish identity with the lack of emphasis I felt was placed on the Holocaust. I didn’t see any remnants of the Holocaust, nor did I learn the history as thoroughly as countries that experienced the atrocities first-hand. As a kid, I didn’t really recognise the presence of antisemitism in my day-to-day life either

17-year-old Alia Saphier interviews a Holocaust survivor about her past, and antisemitism today

books

Why reading books is so important in an age of digital distractions

In an age dominated by digital distractions, the act of reading becomes even more crucial. For Gen Z, embracing the habit of reading can serve as a bridge between the digital and the intellectual worlds, allowing them to harness the best of both realms

15-year-old Zirong Xu is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Society

climate crisis

How the devastating floods in Valencia took hundreds of lives

A year’s worth of rain fell in Valencia in just eight hours on 29 October 2024, resulting in massive floods, at least 220 deaths and about 80 people missing, prompting Spanish authorities to deploy 10,000 troops and police officers

17-year-old Ashley Solace reports on the effects of the climate change-driven catastrophe in Spain

climate crisis

Australia braces for bushfire season as COP29 comes under fire

A new bushfire season begins in Australia, and firefighters, as always, struggle to fight back. Meanwhile, simultaneous storm events damage infrastructure and electricity supply. Australia’s problems are indicative of a global increase in the scope and scale of natural disasters

17-year-old Olivia Campbell reports on the bushfires ravaging the state of Victoria

society

Mobile phones are the defining technology of my generation

Mobile technology was developed for communication. It is a tool that is used to transfer information from one person to another person or one part of the world to another. Mobile technology has helped to spread education and research

14-year-old Santoshi Gurung of the Nepali Newsroom examines the pros and cons of mobile phones

human rights

Journalism is under threat across the world – and that impacts us all

Independent reporting is about asking the hard questions. Probing deeper to find the truth. Holding those in power to account. It is fundamental to democracy, acting as a watchdog against an overmighty executive. At its best, it allows marginalised people to have a voice in society. It provides a forum for the discussion of ideas. Ultimately, no journalist should be detained simply because they are reporting on the truth

17-year-old Gavriella Epstein-Lightman is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Human Rights

women's desk

Armenia’s new domestic violence legislation is good, but not good enough

In Armenia, as in many parts of the world, real progress against domestic violence requires both legislative action and societal change. Strengthening legal definitions, expanding victim protections, challenging gender norms and increasing support for survivors are all essential steps in Armenia’s ongoing journey toward a safer society

17-year-old Nare Arushanyan interviews the head of Armenia’s leading domestic violence support group

opinion

Help me keep the voices of young Nepali journalists heard

For the past two years, I’ve coordinated Harbingers’ Nepali Newsroom, working with 10 students from the Mountain Children’s Home in Dandagaun, Kathmandu. Aged between 11 and 18, these students gather twice weekly to learn journalism, alongside lessons in English, dancing and singing. Now, they need our support to keep their voices heard

17-year-old Jefferson He has set up a fundraiser to secure the future of Harbingers’ Nepali Newsroom

women's desk

My experience as a teenage refugee from Artsakh

Post-war life changed the person I am. It makes you question your whole existence; you appear to be in an identity crisis, which is even worse when everyone around you is in trauma. But I don’t want to identify myself with that devastating experience. Rather, when I think about Artsakh, I remember the warm and happy years that I spent there

18-year-old Lana Tonyan shares the trauma of fleeing her homeland to a new life in Armenia

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culture

Why Speak No Evil 2024 fails to outshine the original

Conversely, while watching Speak No Evil from 2024, I was glued to the screen due to the amount of chaos and improbability. Now, while I still believe the remake doesn’t hold a candle to the original, it allowed me to reevaluate my appreciation for the Danish film

17-year-old Maria Mitko reviews a recent American remake of a Danish psychological thriller

politics

Who is Vietnam’s new leader, To Lam?

To Lam was named the new leader of Vietnam earlier this year, first in the chiefly ceremonial role of president, then in the key position of general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV). So who is the man who has been travelling to meet world leaders to balance ties, and what are his plans for his country?

17-year-old Camila Savelieva profiles Vietnam’s new leader and his policies at home and abroad

opinion

Why we should lose the stigma around gap years

The first time I heard about gap years, I was around six years old. My dad often shared stories of his adventures travelling the world, meeting new people and gaining experiences during his gap year

17-year-old Anna Wilkin argues that gap years bring personal growth and academic success

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culture

How I dived into the heart of American capitalism from a theatre seat

In three hours and fifteen minutes (including two intervals), we witness a sweeping epic of 150 years of American history. It starts with the arrival from Bavaria of Henry Lehman to Ellis Island in New York in 1844, soon followed by his two brothers

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh reviews a rerun of Sam Mendes’ award-winning play The Lehman Trilogy

science

Why love, hate and fear play a crucial role in evolution

The Ancient Greek poet Sappho wrote this lyric, a description of the cardiocentric view of emotions, where emotion is linked to the heart. Centuries later, the Greek physician Galen moved our focus beyond the limits of the ribcage, with his theory that the brain is our emotional cortex

17-year-old Ananya Prasanna explains how our emotions are key to our survival as a species

women's desk

What does Sri Lanka’s new female prime minister mean for the country’s young girls?

What does Dr Harini Amarasuriya appointment as prime minister – only the third woman to hold this position – mean for Sri Lanka? Harbingers’ Magazine spoke with young women and girls in Galle on the significance of the prime minister’s appointment

16-year-old Lisindi Liyanage talks to young Sri Lankans about a prime minister of many firsts

economics

Beyond lemonade stands: How teens are revolutionising global business

This surge in teenage entrepreneurship is an influential change where financial self-reliance and business skills are becoming top priorities among today’s youth. This is fueling innovation and economic advancement, shaping the path for a future workforce composed of ambitious and go-getter personalities

15-year-old Arnav Maheshwari is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Economics

women's desk

Social media’s redefinition of ‘girlhood’ is Gen Z’s way of perpetuating the patriarchy

While feminism asserts that all genders have equal intellectual capacity, the ‘girlhood’ trend that has been proliferating on social media since 2023, especially TikTok, advocates that women are incompetent in all facets of life, from financial decisions to nutrition, and endorses detrimental habits

16-year-old Noa Gomberg is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Women's Desk

culture

‘Dream big, never give up’: What famous Nepali climber Purnima Shrestha told us

We met a famous Nepali female mountaineer this summer, when she came to our classroom and shared her experiences. Her name is Purnima Shrestha. This year, aged 33, she created a new world record by climbing Everest three times in thirteen days. She is the first female climber to set such a record

Students from Harbingers' Nepali Newsroom interview renowned woman climber about Mount Everest

culture

Teaching English to fellow Tanzanians has given me fulfilment

It was not until I started English classes in 2021 that I began to develop in confidence and speak more fluently

15 year-old Lidya Gasper shares her experience teaching and the importance of passing on knowledge

economics

Why a conflict over Taiwan could damage the global economy

The global supply chain for semiconductors is at great risk due to current Chinese aggression in the Taiwan Strait, the crucial body of water separating the island of Taiwan from mainland China

16 year-old Noah Saphier explains tensions over Taiwan and the impact of a possible war with China

culture

Online vs reality: Bali without the lens of social media

Bali, “The Island of The Gods,” as it is often referred to, is a place many call a paradise, as we can see all over social media. But how much of it is really true and how much is a shiny facade drawing vacationers in or a dark cloud pushing them away?

17 year-old Elias Malmqvist’s take on social media’s rose-colored glasses on Bali

elections

America votes! How has the election changed checks and balances in the US?

On November 5, 2024, not only the president of the United States but also several other federal officials were elected: 34 seats in the Senate and all 435 seats in the House of Representatives were up for re-election. Also, ten states held referendums on abortion rights. So, how will the results change American politics?

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh explains what Trump’s victory means for US politics

elections

America votes! A cliffhanger night at the vote count in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina

Voting is just one step in an elaborate logistical effort. Before the polling stations open, the behind-the-scenes preparations last months, but the most challenging part happens once the doors to precincts have closed − and Harbingers’ Magazine saw the vote count up close

16 year-old Klara Hammudeh reports on the logistics behind voting in the US elections

science

Coral catastrophe: The race to save Sri Lanka’s fragile reefs

Coral reefs are some of the most important resources in the tropics, alongside mangroves and seagrass beds. Humans rely heavily on coral reefs, thanks to their benefits to the tourism and building industries, and for coastal protection. They are home to a quarter of the world’s marine species, and provide food and resources to half a billion people across the globe

15 year-old Lisindi Liyanage explores the devastating damage to Sri Lanka’s coral reefs

women's desk

The return of Victoria's Secret Fashion Show: rebrand or ruse?

The aesthetic of the lingerie brand – deemed sexy and appealing, but also toxic and narrow-minded by some – was meant to be transformed into a supposedly body-positive and more inclusive version

15-year-old Sofia Vorobei argues that the lingerie company rebrand is another marketing opportunity

elections

America votes! Trump wins second term as US president

In a striking turn, a candidate who has been impeached for inciting violence against Congress, convicted of 34 felonies, and regarded as a threat by many in his own administration has prevailed over a historic bid for the first female president—a symbolic loss for women worldwide

17 year-old Emily Dorman on Trump’s extraordinary comeback as he declares victory in the US election

elections

America votes! Polls open after Harris and Trump make last push for Pennsylvania

On the eve of the election, both the Republican candidate, Donald Trump, and the Democratic contender, vice president Kamala Harris, held rallies in Pennsylvania, a key swing state that could determine the next US president. Harbingers’ Magazine was with a camera at Harris’s final rally

16 year-old Klara Hammudeh reports on the rally frenzy of the election eve

elections

America votes! Key things you need to know about the Harris-Trump showdown

On Tuesday November 5, at 6am ET, polling stations will open throughout the United States, and 240 million Americans will be eligible to elect the 47th president of the US (together with the vice president) and also who will take all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 34 of the 100 seats in the Senate

16-year-old Klara Hammudeh explains what really matters in the presidential election

elections

Doug and Melania: Who are the spouses of the presidential candidates?

With the US election only a few days away, both presidential campaigns are making a final push to connect with voters. While Donald Trump and Kamala Harris take center stage, behind the scenes are dedicated supporters, including their spouses, building enthusiasm

17 year-old Emily Dorman profiles the next first lady or first gentleman of the United States

culture

What I found retracing Steinbeck’s steps in The Grapes of Wrath

Back in June, fascinated by the sensory richness and moving power of Steinbeck’s writing, and finding parallels between the socioeconomic and climate-related conditions of immigrants today and the migrants of the 1930s, I embarked on my own quest across the “Mother Road” of Route 66

17 year-old Justin Sau finds links between the migrant workers of the 1930s and today

ukraine

Mustafa Nayyem, a revolutionary leader, urges Ukrainian youth to shape the future

“Ukrainian youth has the energy to change things,” says Mustafa Nayyem, who resigned this summer from his role overseeing Ukraine’s reconstruction agency. Over a decade ago, his call to action helped to spark the Euromaidan revolution in Ukraine. As war ravages the country, Nayyem hopes a new generation will lead the way forward

17 year-old Klaudia Bacza interviews Ukraine’s former reconstruction chief

elections

Harris or Trump? It all depends on the peculiarities of the US electoral system

The result of the 2024 US presidential election lies in the hands of just seven states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. These are considered swing states because the margins between whether they will vote Democratic or Republican are very narrow, meaning they could swing either way

16 year-old Noah Saphier explains why the US election hinges on how people vote in just seven states

elections

Beyoncé and Taylor Swift have endorsed Kamala Harris. So who’s backing Trump?

You may have noticed that the 2024 US presidential campaigns have embraced various modern trends to connect to young voters. From playful TikTok edits to sharp Twitter roasts, both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have leveraged distinct strategies to align with pop culture. Yet, one classic strategy that both parties continue to rely on is endorsements and collaborations with public figures

17 year-old Emily Dorman explains the impact of celebrity endorsements on the US election

opinion

Phone ban will not solve Hungary’s school problems

With Hungary’s new legislation implementing a complete ban on phones, students can no longer bring them onto campus. At the beginning of the day, we have to put them into individual lockers with the key held by the school administration. The only exemption are diabetes sufferers who need apps to moderate their blood sugar levels

15 year-old Lola Kadas critiques Hungary’s phone ban in schools and suggests alternative solutions

culture

Why is the month of Shrawan so important for Nepalis?

Shrawan is the fourth month in the Nepali calendar, and one of the most holy months for Hindus because it is dedicated to one of their most important gods, Lord Shiva.

Students from Harbingers’ Nepali Newsroom explain the significance of the month of Shrawan

elections

The Trump campaign: A view on the ground

Back in August, three weeks after Joe Biden dropped out of the race to become the next US president, I went to Asheville, North Carolina to experience Donald Trump’s campaign first-hand. It was a valuable insight into the support that the Republican candidate attracts, especially as North Carolina is seen as one of the seven key swing states that could determine the outcome of the November election

17 year-old Fryderyk Boniecki’s first-hand experience of a Trump rally in North Carolina

women's desk

Moving on from the past: Abortion should be a constitutional right

Ahead of the US election, abortion rights are a crucial issue for many young women—including myself. Here’s a look back at the Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v Wade, the consequences so far, and where presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump stand on abortion

17 year-old Alia Saphier explains the controversy around abortion rights in the US

opinion

Who won the vice presidential debate?

On Tuesday, October 1, JD Vance and Tim Walz—the Republican and Democratic vice presidential candidates—faced off in their much-anticipated first and only live televised debate

17 year-old Emily Dorman assesses the debate between VP candidates JD Vance and Tim Walz

women's desk

Behind the apron: Are TikTok’s ‘trad wives’ truly traditional?

The ‘trad wife’ trend is not realistic. Hannah Neeleman and Nara Smith’s lifestyles are not attainable by the average person. Ask your grandmother if her traditional marriage included rolling in the field with her freshly made sourdough or, more realistically, performing a lot of tiring manual labour to look after the family and house

14-year-old Helena Bruździak explores the social media trend and its implications for feminism

culture

Does Harry Potter have a passport?

Boycotting might seem like a good answer to the current Russian regime, but it doesn’t really prove a point and it also helps brainwash kids, giving an unlimited power to propaganda. If the goal is to lead Russia’s population towards democracy, then cutting ties to international culture is not what should be done

17-year-old Ashley Solace is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024: Culture

society

What is the debate surrounding marijuana use?

Legislation around marijuana differs from country to country. Some allow its use for recreational and medical purposes, while many still ban it as an illegal drug. With its increasing medical uses, its overall impact and risk are becoming more overlooked

18 year-old Emilia Wilkin discusses marijuana use around the world

opinion

How to stay sane during the college application process

The process of applying to university has been an incredibly stressful time for me. I have questioned my decisions and abilities, and struggled with time management. Thousands of people go through this process every year

17 year-old Maria Mitko shares her experience and gives advice on applying to college

opinion

Exercise is not a cure-all: we should support mental health with compassion, not pressure

Exercise is often praised as a natural mood booster, and research shows that physical activity can improve mental well-being. But we need to approach the subject with more sensitivity, as not everyone can simply ‘get moving’

16 year-old Anna Wilkin explores the complex relationship between exercise and well-being

economics

Dying jobs - will AI shape the future of employment?

Due to the rapid development of technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), jobs are swiftly disappearing. Over the last few years, some traditional jobs have gone for good. Supermarket cashiers have already been replaced by self-service checkouts, while many assembly line workers have been replaced by cheaper, more efficient, automated machinery. But some jobs will continue to remain essential

15 year-old Anastasia Kulikova on the phenomenon of ‘dying jobs’ in the age of tech advancement

opinion

Gen Z’s new trend of mocking politicians is both bizarre and hilarious

People making and engaging with these videos are simply returning the same tone set by the politicians themselves. The strange rivalry and barrage of insults between the two adversaries encourages people to make fun of them in a similar way

17 year-old Cressida Anness-Lorenz looks at how the US election has sparked new political satire

women's desk

Refugee women in Armenia build community through knitting

The Shuhel group, supported by the feminist peacebuilding NGO Women’s Center Shushi in Yerevan, provides a space for refugee women to build community and knit, sew, embroider and sell their handcrafted quilts, jewellery, and other goods

18-year-old Alyona Sargsyan explains how an initiative in Yerevan offers a safe space for women

opinion

Our nation’s backbone is caught in the crossfire of racism

Not going to lie, getting subjected to crossfire racism sucks. Not only do you realize that “this person is racist”, but being a victim of crossfire racism can make a person feel like their only identity is their presumed race, which has severe implications on both the mind and the body

16 year-old Reva Sobti is the winner of The Harbinger Prize 2024

science

How media stereotypes of the medical profession damage perceptions and patient care

Whether through TV, film or literature, the motives of creatives are not to portray our healthcare professionals positively or even accurately, but rather to entertain

17 year-old Ananya Prasanna explores stereotypes of surgeons as arrogant, aggressive and uncaring

elections

Why is Trump’s running mate so unpopular?

So, how did JD Vance become so deeply unpopular? My answer is simple: he’s not likable. At every opportunity to connect with voters, he has missed the mark

17 year-old Emily Dorman explains Vance’s failure to appeal to voters in the upcoming US election

politics

Would you trade Georgia for Nevada? The game of chess behind the US election

With the Harris administration making a surprising comeback in polls the race is closer and more heated than ever to concentrate campaign efforts on the areas that will make the most significant difference in the election results – swing states

17 year-old Justin Sau outlines the key states to look out for in the 2024 election.

politics

Bangladesh’s prime minister resigns and flees the country after violent protests

Student protesters succeeded in ousting Bangladesh’s longest-serving prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, last month, after weeks of violent and deadly clashes with security forces

17 year-old Nare Arushanyan explains the recent protests in Bangladesh and their aftermath

society

The fentanyl crisis is 'destroying lives'

In Mexico, official figures of fentanyl are sparse, but there have likely been thousands of deaths due to the drug. In Tijuana, a city controlled primarily by the Sinaloa Cartel, people die from overdoses daily. Despite a growing problem, many believe president-elect Claudia Sheinbaum will continue her predecessor’s policy of treating the drug cartels with “hugs, not bullets”

17 year-old Inika Singh explores the lucrative but deadly business of the infamous Sinaloa Cartel

politics

These Kamala Harris memes are so confusing, girl

By now, there are two types of people in the world: those who embrace the rise of Kamala Harris memes, and those who struggle to understand the online flurry of coconut tree emojis and pop remixes using clips of Harris’s philosophical thoughts on life. This article is for people in either group

14 year-old Helena Bruździak explains the Gen Z memes about US presidential candidate Kamala Harris

politics

Many young Armenians dissatisfied with current government, but see no real alternative

Harbingers’ asked 60 people aged 18-25 from different regions of Armenia a series of questions about the anti-government protests in the country between April and June

17 year-old Lana Tonyan and 16 year-old Anita Stepanyan report on the recent anti-government protests in Armenia

opinion

How ‘nosy’ Armenians made my trip unforgettable

Armenians take pride in being ‘nosy’ – and that’s a good thing. Let me explain why. This eagerness to engage created a welcoming atmosphere making an unknown place less daunting

15 year-old Charlotte Wejchert on her contrasting experiences in Yerevan and New York City

opinion

It was painful and horrible - why my acne made me feel different from others

My struggles with acne started from the age of 11 and for years I felt different from others. My journey taught me a lot, most importantly that it is only temporary

15 year-old Eliza Tomaszewska shares her struggles with acne and what others can learn from her journey

opinion

Issues professional athletes face from the perspective of a young figure skater

Figure skating is my life and biggest passion, but I almost quit because of the pressures I had to deal with as a young athlete. Many people I have come across share similar feelings about the highs and lows of figure skating. But they wouldn’t give it up for the world

15 year-old Helena Ruszkowska takes us behind the scenes in the world of ice-skating competitions and the pressures young athletes face

opinion

The US presidential debate left me disappointed, not inspired

Following the presidential debate, many Americans ended the night feeling like the global laughing stock of politics. Our politicians were too busy name-calling and slandering each other to reassure any of us voters that our country has a bright future ahead

17 year-old Emily Dorman assesses the unsatisfactory Trump and Biden election debate on 27 June

society

Why corporal punishment is still common in Sri Lankan schools

Corporal punishment of children as a means of discipline has been prohibited in Sri Lanka, but is still regularly used in schools, with the excuse that it is part of the country’s culture

15 year-old Hesandi explores the status of corporal punishment in Sri Lankan schools

science

How the world’s first pig-kidney transplant operation could save lives

Doctors in Massachusetts have changed the face of medicine, after carrying out the world’s first kidney transplant operation using an organ from a pig. Although this procedure shows spectacular progress and promises to open a new range of treatments for patients in the future, critics have commented on ethical concerns

17 year-old Ayanna Rohil explains the significance of a pioneering transplant operation in the US

culture

From jail to fame: Who is the ‘infamous’ Gypsy Rose Blanchard?

Gypsy Rose Blanchard is known for the killing of her mother Clauddine “Dee Dee” Blanchard due to alleged abuse over 19 years. Now after serving eight and a half years in prison, she has become ‘infamous’ during her time behind bars following high public interest in her story

15 year-old Eliza Tomaszewska reports on the life of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who has gained an internet following after being released from prison

science

What is mpox and why is it an ‘international public health emergency’?

The viral infection, which is transmitted through close contact and causes symptoms including chills, body aches and lesions, spread rapidly from the Democratic Republic of Congo to nearby countries

15 year-old Helena Ruskowska reports on recent updates on the mpox virus and the advice issued by health experts

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human rights

A must-read: White Torture shares the agony of women prisoners in Iran

I urge you to pick up this book, to stand with Narges Mohammadi, who has risked so much to publish these testimonies, and the courageous women who have shared memories of their darkest days

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva reviews Narges Mohammadi’s book on women prisoners in Iran

opinion

The highs and lows of attending an international school in Tanzania

Attending an international school in Tanzania has opened up a world of opportunities that has changed my life for the better. But this journey has also been challenging

15 year-old Lidya Gasper shares her experience of attending a private international school in Tanzania

society

How Armenian teens have adjusted to a new life, a year after fleeing home

Almost one year ago, in September 2023, the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh, home to a significant Armenian population, fell under Azerbaijani control, prompting a mass exodus of more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians to Armenia. Five refugee girls now living in Yerevan share what has the past year been like

15 year-old Charlotte Wejchert interviews five refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh, now living in Yerevan

opinion

What a female president means for Mexico and the world

Sheinbaum’s presidency marks an important milestone in the history of Mexico. Up until this point, Mexico was a country run by men, known for its persistently high levels of violence, especially against women

17 year-old Maria Mitko explores the potential impact of Claudia Sheinbaum’s groundbreaking election win

society

How teens can help shape the political future of their countries

Despite the fact that you may be too young to cast your vote, you can still uplift issues that matter to you. By informing your communities, families, and friends about elections and political events dear to your heart you are already able to make a difference

15 year-old Lola Kadas shares how young people can get involved in political discourse

opinion

Traditional Kyrgyz weddings are unnecessary and expensive

Weddings are a huge deal in Kyrgyzstan – a celebration of rich cultural traditions and rituals. And while it is an event that is worthy of being proclaimed, the costs of holding one are unjustifiable

18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova shares how people can still honour traditions without the high price tag

society

Chili, half-smokes, and history: Interviews in DC’s greatest landmark

Before even stepping into Ben’s Chili Bowl, there is the sense of walking into history. More than just a culinary landmark, though, Ben’s is a testament to the perseverance and community of the District of Columbia

17 year-old Justin Sau visits Ben’s Chili Bowl, a cultural staple in US civil rights history

society

Armenia’s annual wine festival features producers from Artsakh

The festival acts as an important space to represent Artsakhian culture and significance. Among the wine-making producers were companies originating from the disputed region of Artsakh

17 year-old Laura Danielyan reports on Yerevan’s annual Wine Days festival

society

How can America learn from Netflix’s Sex Education?

The show’s success and relevance is not just due to its own quality, it’s also because American sex education is not as effective as it should be. A lack of comprehensive sex education doesn’t mean a more or less conservative new generation — it means a less educated one

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil explores the problems with sex education programs in the US

society

Capitalism and football – How Gen Z could influence high value deals

With a growing emphasis on environmental awareness and eco-friendly practices, we may see clubs align with sponsors focusing on green initiatives, reflecting the socially responsible spirit of modern sports

17 year-old Elias Malmqvist on how clubs and companies go hand-in-hand when it comes to business, and how youngsters can get involved

opinion

Should poaching and hunting be illegal?

Hunting is one of the oldest causes of animal extinction and endangerment. The problem is that prohibition could be financially disadvantageous – because many countries rely on the tourism and fashion industries, in which animals play an important part

15 year-old Lisindi Liyanage from Sri Lanka examines the morality and necessity of killing animals

science

Space tourism – Is it just a dream or reality?

In our current time, concepts that were formerly exclusive to science fiction are starting to become reality as the topic of space travel is being explored by entrepreneurs such as Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson

18 year-old Katarzyna Rynkiewicz on whether trips to the great unknown in our solar system could be part of our regular holiday destinations

society

How to start and keep a healthy diet without feeling overwhelmed

A balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients, enhances immune defence and promotes overall vitality. However, contemporary diets trends increasingly lean towards fast foods and processed items which has resulted in a surge of health issues

15 year-old Oliver Stachowiak examines the harms of added sugars offering steps for a balanced diet without feeling deprived

women's desk

The rise of female entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan

The rise of female entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan marks an important change in the country’s development. As these women continue to break barriers and redefine societal roles, they create a legacy of empowerment and growth

18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova showcases stories of the dynamic women powering a new world in the heart of Bishkek

women's desk

How five overlooked female inventors changed our lives for the better

Women have made a significant impact on the world for hundreds of years. Their inventions may be widely known or used, from navigating us across the globe to saving time and lives. But do we know the faces of those behind them?

17-year-old Maria Mitko shares the stories of the women behind some of our world’s inventions that have helped change our lives for the better

society

Ten free self-care tips for Gen Z

In our busy academic and social lives, self-care is essential. It’s not just about treating yourself, it’s about staying healthy and balanced. Thankfully, self-care doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag

13 year-old Lilly Stachowiak explains the importance of self-care and shares examples for Gen Z

opinion

Being young is my superpower - I’ve learnt not to doubt myself

The next time you find yourself doubting your place among those older than you, why not ask yourself: isn’t it time to embrace your unique strengths and show the world what the youngest among us can truly achieve?

13 year-old Lilly Stachowiak reflects on internalised ageism

opinion

Schools should not start earlier than 9: Here is why

The idea of starting before 9 am might be justified from a traffic and energy savings perspective, but the benefits for the health and development of students far outweigh any potential disadvantages

15 year-old Olivier Stachowiak explains the correlation between early school start times and students’ well-being

opinion

Does academic pressure prevent athletic passion?

Academics has long been deemed the most important factor in our development and future. We cannot let academic pressures prevent athletic passion for any longer. How was it possible that we students who played on the sport teams were faced with great pressure to excel academically before anything else

17 year-old Elias dives into how academic pressure affects young athletic dreams

politics

Certainly not ‘fell out of a coconut tree.’ Who is Kamala Harris – and could she defeat Trump?

Although polls indicate that Trump is leading in the race – and Harris herself warns that the Democrats are the “underdog” – there are signs that things could turn in her favour, offering the current vice president a chance to become the first female US president.

15 year-old Nell Dethloff profiles VP Kamala Harris

opinion

Social media and digital detoxing

A planned break from digital devices or a “digital detox”, has become more crucial for supporting our mental health and wellbeing. Unplugging from the internet will offer numerous benefits like improving our ability to concentrate and think clearly

18 year-old Katarzyna opines on the dangers of social media overconsumption

opinion

Microtrends are the death of individuality – we should be wary of overconsumption

Microtrends are not subcultures. Rather than building a timeless closet, consisting of a foundation customisable to fit your style, people often opt for trending items. While this is great for businesses, microtrend consumerism is having a profound impact on our environment and individuality

17 year-old Maria Mitko hits out at the overconsumption of microtrends that ‘kills individuality’ across the world

society

Calls to address fast food consumption amid increasing obesity concerns

As obesity is rising globally, organisations such as the World Obesity Federation and Cancer Research UK have called for more to be done to address the issue. The widespread appeal of fast food is said to be particularly appealing to young people with chains specifically targeting children through advertisements

15 year-old Olivier Stachowiak reports on fast food consumption and how advertising is being blamed for growing obesity levels in children and young people

opinion

Revisiting Amy Winehouse: Unpacking the biopic Back to Black

Back to Black’s vivid portrayal of Amy Winehouse has reignited the debate over the ethics of biographical filmmaking, while challenging audiences to confront the complexities of fame, addiction, and artistic brilliance. In death as in life, Amy defies easy categorization, leaving an untouchable mark on music and memory alike

15 year-old Sofia Vorobei asks if the recent movie does justice to the iconic singer Amy Winehouse

science

Forgotten herstory: five female scientists who changed the world

When I’m looking through my textbooks, I often see prominent male scientists described as ‘the father of.’ The same doesn’t go for women involved in discoveries, who are often hidden behind their male counterparts

17 year-old Ananya Prasanna shines a light on women in maths, palaeontology, chemistry and biology

society

An interview with Kevin Tien: How a chef is countering hate with food-focused love

From his humble beginnings of cooking and experimenting with grilled cheese sandwiches and cooking out of necessity for his siblings, Tien has now inspired others to cook for a greater purpose and to support an important cause

17 year-old Christian Yeung in conversation with renowned chef Kevin Tien

politics

Who is Labour’s Rachel Reeves and what are her plans for the UK economy?

Following Labour’s landslide victory in the UK general election of July 4, Rachel Reeves has become Britain’s chancellor of the exchequer – the first woman in the role since it was created 800 years ago

17-year-old Camilla Savelieva profiles the UK’s first female chancellor of the exchequer

opinion

Against all odds: Afghan girls want to learn

The message is simple. Education for children is a fundamental right, and our gender should make no difference. Afghan girls are the strongest girls. Just let them improve and study. Allow them back into school

17 year-old Zohra shares the unwavering determination of Afghan girls to pursue their education

society

Olympic horse ‘abuse’ allegations: Animal welfare organisations demand change

Controversy surrounding horse treatment at the Paris 2024 Olympics has raised animal-welfare concerns in equestrian sports, leading to calls for urgent reforms

18-year-old Katarzyna Rynkiewicz reports on recent calls to address animal ‘abuse’ following animal welfare concerns at the 2024 Paris Olympics

society

Balancing heritage and modernity: Westgate, Oxford

Nestled in the heart of Oxford, is the Westgate shopping centre that attempts to blend in with the historical architecture of its neighbourhood. Despite Landsec, Westgate’s builder company, claiming that the mall has ‘been seamlessly woven into the heart of the centre’, young shoppers seemed to disagree

13 year-old Lilly Stachowiak speaks with locals on the importance of architectural aesthetics

society

Oxfordians concerned with the rise of ‘horrific’ UK stabbings

Oxford locals consider the rise of stabbings in the UK “unsettling” and “horrific” in light of the recent Southport attack, near Liverpool, in which three young children were killed. The incident reflects a larger problem, with knifes and sharp object offences back on the rise in England and Wales

17 year-old Elias Malmqvist on the rise of stabbings in the UK in light of Southport attack

science

Oxford University’s new quantum hub will connect ‘brilliant ideas and practical solutions’

QCI3 will be one of the five hubs that the UK Government has launched to develop quantum technologies and “transform sectors like healthcare and security.” The market for quantum computing is a rapidly growing area in the UK, and it’s estimated to be worth $1.3tn by 2035

18 year-old Kasiet Dzholdoshbekova on the launch of quantum hubs in the UK enhancing students’ learning experience

climate crisis

The hottest day of the year: a heatwave is coming

July 30, was recorded as the hottest day of the year in the UK, with the temperature reaching 32°C in London. The next few days, forecasted to be around the same temperatures, are expected to bring an official heatwave. But for those in Oxford, where the temperature reached 30°C, people have very different approaches to the hot weather

17 year-old Maria Mitko reports on the recent bout of extreme heat in Oxford, UK

politics

Joe Biden quits the presidential race, endorses Kamala Harris

Four months before the election and almost a month after a disappointing performance during a debate, President Joe Biden withdrew from the race for the second term in the White House and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.

17 year-old Jefferson He reports on the unprecedented turn in American politics

politics

Trump rallies thousands in Michigan: ‘We will build American by American, we will hire American’

Harbingers’ Magazine spoke to Trump’s supporters – and critics – at MAGA’s first rally after the assassination attempt.

17 year-old Jefferson He and 15 year-old Nell Dethloff report from Grand Rapids, Michigan

politics

Trump and Vance kept silent on abortion at RNC, in effort to secure more women’s votes

Donald Trump and JD Vance did not mention reproductive rights even once during their acceptance speeches at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

15 year-old Nell Dethloff on the political strategy behind top Republicans’ silence on abortion

politics

‘Working-class boy born far from the halls of power’ Who is JD Vance, the Republicans’ VP candidate?

Once a staunch critic of former president Donald Trump, Ohio senator James David Vance is now his running mate in the presidential race.

17 year-old Jefferson He profiles Trump’s pick for vice president

politics

Trump dominates political landscape at Republican convention overshadowed by assassination attempt

Two days after an assassination attempt on Donald J. Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, the ex-president took the stage at the National Republican Convention.

17 year-old Jefferson He reports on key events from the National Republican Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

women's desk

The ‘pink tax’ – another hidden weapon in the oppression of women

The so-called ‘pink tax’ may not be an actual tax, but it is an audacious and harmful way for businesses to make profit at the expense of women through misogynistic marketing schemes

16 year-old Camilla Savalieva explains what the ‘pink tax’ is and its consequences for women

society

What are the reasons for the proposed US ban on TikTok?

Despite the widespread use of the app, the safety and security of TikTok has been contested and recently questioned by the US government. Concerns have also been raised about the economic and cultural impacts of a potential ban since 46% of adults believe the ban challenges the idea of free speech

17 year-old Emily Dorman and 16 year-old Anna Wilkin co-explain the US government plan to ban TikTok

society

Reasons to visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum in Nepal

Narayanhiti Palace was turned into a museum after the monarchy was overthrown in Nepal and the country was declared a federal democratic republic. It was designed for kings, but now it is open to everyone. We found six interesting things about the palace that everyone must know

Students aged 11–18 from the OXSFJ Nepal Project share their experiences after a recent visit to this royal museum

international affairs

Navigating the US-China rivalry: Trump and Biden’s divergent strategies in the Asia-Pacific region

The debates between candidates Joe Biden and Donald Trump have frequently touched on their respective approaches to managing rivalry with China. This focus underscores the increasing prominence of US-China relations in American political and strategic thinking

19 year-old Maciej Cebula compares Trump’s and Biden’s strategies on US-China relations, focusing on trade, military, technology, and Asia-Pacific diplomacy

climate crisis

How the US election could impact tackling climate change

As US President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump race for the White House, the results of the November 5 election will strongly impact the global response to climate change

17 year-old Jefferson He analyses the link between the White House and greenhouse gas emissions

politics

Biden mixes up his words at the NATO Summit

Biden suffered multiple word mistakes while giving a press conference alongside the closing day of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) summit in Washington, furthering the question as to whether he is fit for another four years as US President

16 year-old Noah Saphier reports on day three of the NATO Summit

politics

Trump distances himself from Project 2025 amid Democratic backlash

Following increased focus of President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign on the program, the Republican candidate has refuted claims linking him to the project in a post on Truth Social

19 year-old Maciej Cebula reports on Trump's latest remarks in the presidential campaign

ukraine

How young Ukrainians are coping after two and half years of war

I spent a week in Lviv, Ukraine at the end of June, where frequent air alarms sounded day and night, generators hummed persistently, power outages were the norm, and nightly curfews from 12am–5am were strictly implemented

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza gives a first-hand account of the profound impact of war on Ukraine’s youth

international affairs

World leaders are working on ‘Trump-proofing’ NATO

On Day two of the NATO Summit, happening in Washington DC, the world leaders have mainly focused on aiding Ukraine and continuously providing help to Ukraine even after the election

17 year-old Jefferson He reports on the decision making of ‘Trump-proofing’ NATO from Washington DC

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culture

A Japanese volleyball film that’s too fast for its own good

Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle is an exhilarating romp for well-versed fans, but for those who are going in blind, or have forgotten much of the anime, it can be confusing. With a limited runtime, the audience is left to fill in the gaps of many individual rivalries and character relationships

17 year-old Justin Sau reviews the animated volleyball movie Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle

science

Interesting facts about the galaxy you should know about

Studying galaxies helps us understand the universe’s history, structure and evolution, opening us up to an extraordinary space that we often overlook in our daily lives

16 year-old Sama explores the world beyond our solar system and facts about our universe

society

Are Americans normalising school shootings?

A voice comes over the speakers. Everyone knows where to go. It’s either a small closet, under the desks, or a boiler room, usually. We’re not supposed to talk, but people do, thinking this could never happen to us.

17 year-old Alia Saphier looks at possible solutions to the epidemic of gun violence in US schools

opinion

The Labour Vs Conservative TikTok battle felt like an uncle trying new slang

The parties took to TikTok and other apps soon after the election announcement, a move to be expected in order to appeal to younger voters. It is understandable that the parties are appealing to the youth vote, but you have to wonder why both sides decided to adopt the mentality of children in the process

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz gives her take on the Labour Vs Conservative social media battle following the UK general election

international affairs

Day 1 of the NATO Summit: support for Ukraine and Biden’s redemption

The Summit will introduce further NATO commitments for Ukraine. US President Joe Biden declared the alliance “stronger than ever” and said: “Russia will not prevail. Ukraine will prevail”

17 year-old Justin Sau recaps the first day of discussions at the 2024 NATO Summit

society

No more lies - FTC bans minors from NGL app

On July 9, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) began to take action against NGL Labs, LLC and its cofounders, Raj Vir and Joao Figueiredo for several law violations, including unfairly marketing services to children and teens

17 year-old Christian Yeung reports on the latest ban on anonymous messaging apps for minors

opinion

Bronny James: nature, nurture, or nepotism?

A namesake can be positive, as it is a constant reminder of someone important to one’s parents. However, it does not always play out the way one’s parents thought it would, oftentimes being a burden to the child to live up to certain expectations

16 year-old Noah Saphier on Bronny James joining the Los Angeles Lakers

international affairs

US 2024 elections: Is this the end of American support for Ukraine?

Planned for November 5, the US presidential election is poised to significantly impact Eastern Europe, especially given the pivotal roles of Ukraine and NATO in the region’s security dynamics. The results are set to shape the country’s transatlantic future and relations

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza analyses the potential results of the US elections and the impact of the NATO summit on the war in Ukraine

society

Boeing pleads guilty to fraud – misleading FAA regulators resulting in the loss of 346 lives

While accidents such as aeroplane crashes are rare, with the resources that Boeing has and the pressure from the US government and the public, one can hope that these unfortunate events will be limited in the future

16 year-old Noah Saphier outlines the timeline of the Boeing scandal

international affairs

What you need to know about NATO: the upcoming Summit in Washington DC

This summit represents a critical moment for the United States. While President Joe Biden has clearly stated that he will continue his candidacy, increasing numbers of important Democrats are calling for his resignation, whether that be publicly or privately

17 year-old Alia Saphier outlines the expectations and consequences of the NATO Summit

India’s PM Narendra Modi visits Moscow to ‘deepen ties’

The visit, which was announced on July 4 by the PM’s office, will be Modi’s first time arriving on Russian soil following the start of the Ukraine war. The leaders will review “all aspects of bilateral cooperation” and share their perspectives on “various regional and global issues”

19 year-old Maciej Cebula reports on Indian PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow

politics

France election 2024: Left beats far right but future remains unclear

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza reports on the French legislative elections

politics

Is Biden capable of resurrecting his campaign? The president seems to be ‘not going anywhere’

As the elections rapidly approach November 5, the world awaits Biden’s plans to not only defend his position on the ballot against his party but also secure the presidency

17 year-old Christian Yeung examines Biden’s attempts to stay in power following the presidential debate

politics

Will Biden go bye-then? Who would step in if he drops out?

With clips going viral and concerns all over social media, it seems that many Democrats have come to a similar conclusion following the recent presidential debate on June 27; Biden is too old and not in the right mind to run the country for the next four years

16 year-old Noah Saphier on the current candidates that could replace Biden on the Democratic ticket

politics

Trump versus the United States: the US fight against Trump stays alive amid immunity decision

A famous story proclaimed far and wide throughout the United States, even today, is the one of Washington rejecting the establishment of a monarchy by resigning as president. But now, around 248 years later, the constitutional government we were once so protective of is shifting towards what some may call a monarchy

17 year-old Alia Saphier on the implications of absolute immunity being granted to the president

politics

Democrats are between a rock and a hard place, but losing to Trump is not an option

There are many arguments against why Joe Biden should not run for the second term as the President of the United States, and most of them are valid. But there are millions of people, both in the US and around the world, who are terrified of the perspective of Trump returning to the White House – and young people are a significant part of this group

Teenagers of the Washington DC Newsroom explain candidate concerns ahead of the US presidential race

politics

UK election 2024: Labour Party wins landslide victory

Millions of Brits took to the polling stations in the UK – their votes led to the Labour Party winning a historic landslide victory. Disrupting the Conservative stronghold, which governed the country for 14 years

17 year-old Jefferson He reports on the UK general election results

opinion

Seeking closure: why open-ended movies are frustrating

Unlike traditional movies, which typically tie up loose ends, these films often leave many questions unanswered. While some argue that this ambiguity allows characters to leap off the screen and into our imaginations, I find it puzzling rather than enlightening

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza expresses her dissatisfaction with open-ended films

opinion

My experiences – good and bad – as a third culture kid

In today’s increasingly globalised world, more children are growing up with influences from multiple ethnic backgrounds and cultures. These children, often referred to as ‘third culture kids’ navigate the complexities of two, three or sometimes even four different cultures in their everyday life

16 year-old Camille Hasbani on the experience of being French-Syrian and living in Denmark

culture

Can traditional Chinese opera survive in pragmatic Singapore?

Characterised by its lyricism and elegant gestures, Chinese opera is a dying art form in Singapore. The number of Chinese street opera troupes has dwindled drastically from hundreds to about ten

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang considers the future of this historical but neglected art form

opinion

How gaming helped me to cope with anxiety and homesickness

Many people consider gaming a waste of time or a bad addiction. However, video games have been my sanctuary, a place to let off steam and find a moment of calm amid life’s storms

16 year-old Sofiia Didenko talks about the positive impact of video games

culture

The creation and evolution of Superman

‘It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… Superman!’ Perhaps the most iconic superhero ever created, spawning millions of comic books, films, television shows and merchandise, the Last Son of Krypton has captured hearts and imaginations all over the world for decades

17 year-old Justin Sau explains how the ‘Man of Steel’ created the superhero genre, 90 years ago

culture

How Gen Z adopted LGBTQ+ slang

You might have heard of ‘slay’, ‘tea’, ‘shade’ and ‘queen’… but do you know where they originate from? Gen Z and millennials use these terms, in a variety of situations, from complimenting and hyping up their peers to expressing disrespect or disgust. But few seem to actually know where this slang came from

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz explains the origins of modern-day slang in queer subculture

science

The dangerous rise of diabetes in South Asia

The rate of diabetes is increasing drastically across the world, but particularly in developing countries such as Sri Lanka and India. With expensive treatments, there is a rising importance to follow precautions to better protect health expenditure

15 year-old Lisindi Liyanage explores the past, present and future of diabetes in Sri Lanka

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culture

Passion. Tension. Match point.

The film is not really about tennis, but about the tense, to-and-fro relationship that tennis represents. That sense of tension only adds to the desire-ridden love triangle that Italian director Luca Guadagnino paints in his sexy sports drama Challengers

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Challengers, a romantic tennis drama filled with desire

opinion

Academic achievements do not define people

It is important to remember that arts-oriented subjects also require discipline and hard work. Simply because they require a different skill set to that of STEM subjects does not mean they should be overlooked

16 year-old Anna Wilkin explains why good grades aren’t the only way to measure success

economics

Decoding ‘Bidenomics’ and its role in the US election

With the US election looming in November, economic policies are taking centre stage in re-election campaign bids. ‘Bidenomics’ is both a source of fiery criticism and fervent support for the president, but what does it actually mean for Americans?

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva explains the intricacies of President Biden’s economic policies

opinion

Poland’s LGBTQ+ policies must change to protect its youth

In the most recent Rainbow Map ranking Poland ranked last among EU members, and not for the first time. In a country that deems being queer unnatural how are young people supposed to feel safe in this environment?

17 year-old Maria Mitko decries Poland’s position as the ‘most homophobic country’ in the EU

opinion

Alcohol, emotions and swearing: Five things I’ve found surprising about Denmark

The Danish capital, Copenhagen, has gained publicity among young people as a vacation hotspot and for its unique fashion sense. But what cultural differences in Denmark might catch you off guard?

16 year-old Varvara Tkachenko shares her experience as a Ukrainian who recently moved to Copenhagen

opinion

Harrison Butker's speech feels like a scene from The Handmaid’s Tale

In a public speech full of misogynistic, homophobic and hateful comments, an NFL player has sparked widespread criticism. While free speech is a fundamental right in the US, at what point does it cross the blurry line into hate speech

14 year-old Helena Bruzdziak on a commencement by US football star and its misogynistic message

society

NHS doctors at breaking point: long hours, low pay, physical and mental stress

This is the impact of public-sector strikes. Education stopped; healthcare workers not caring for sick people, backlogs, longer waiting lists. But strikes are happening for a reason. To stop the strikes and bring back order to our government-funded services, we must address the root of the problem

17 year-old Ananya Prasanna explores why junior doctors are striking for better pay and conditions

opinion

How human rights advocate Sima Samar inspired me to never give up

Sima Samar is a strong supporter and advocate for her people, and girls like me are continually inspired by her work to make our futures better. Girls can take note of these qualities, despite the restrictions they may face, and become great leaders

16 year-old Swita expresses admiration for Afghan human rights activist Sima Samar, and discusses the key attributes of a good leader

human rights

‘Say it loud, gay is proud’: A brief history of Pride Month

It’s June, which means that it’s Pride Month! Although it is still an ongoing battle to ensure equal rights and opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community, we have come a long way since the early days of the Pride movement. So let us take some time to discuss the origins of this incredible celebration of queerness

17 year-old Christian Yeung outlines the history of Pride Month

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culture

See you later, space cowboy…

Set in the not-so-distant future, where humans have finally reached the stars and developed a dysfunctional multi-planetary society, Cowboy Bebop is part Western, part space opera, part neo-noir, and all fun

17 year-old Christian Yeung explains the appeal of the 1998 cult classic anime Cowboy Bebop

culture

Gen Z has mixed reactions to the 2024 Met Gala

The 2024 Met Gala, being a celebration that brings together the worlds of fashion, entertainment, and art, has received its feedback from Gen Z audiences and there is a lot to say

16 year-old Klaudia Bacza dissects Gen Z’s reactions to this year’s Met Gala in New York

opinion

Attending a Catholic school opens a new perspective inside you

I’m an atheist who has spent four years studying at a Catholic school in the UK. That may sound like a nightmare, but believe me it has been a valuable experience

17 year-old Jefferson He reflects on his experience as an atheist in a Catholic school

Marriage equality is the one thing that will last from 14 years of Tory rule

The current election campaign proves that over the last decade, marriage equality has become such a strong part of Britain that no one dares to challenge it. This is a striking change compared to the election campaign of 2010, when only Lib Dems unequivocally supported marriage equality

17 year-old Jefferson He looks back on a key LGBTQIA+ policy as the UK prepares to vote

opinion

Nineteen Eighty-Four: past, present and future

Nineteen Eighty-Four drew inspiration from the rise of totalitarian regimes by frightening readers with the threat of surveillance and loss of privacy. But what does that say about society today, where almost everyone has phones, tablets, computers, and smartwatches

17 year-old Justin Sau discusses the enduring relevance of Orwell’s masterpiece on its 75th birthday

opinion

Sri Lanka’s Moragahakanda dam project is an environmental disaster

The bar for one of Sri Lanka’s largest and supposedly most conservation-oriented development projects has been set so low that it has caused more damage than progress

14 year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe weighs up the pros and cons of a crucial irrigation project

economics

What does the looming TikTok ban mean for smaller businesses?

Almost 40% of small or midsized businesses say they rely on TikTok in order to be able to keep running. A ban could put a huge number of businesses at risk and threaten thousands of jobs

16 year-old Noah Saphier reports on the possible economic consequences of a TikTok ban in the US

opinion

Why everyone waited for Taylor Swift’s new album – including me

On the day that Taylor Swift released her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, the first thing I did upon waking up was to open my Apple Music app and listen to the first song on the album

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh gives her verdict on the American superstar’s latest release

opinion

Can Gen Z use social media to learn?

While such platforms are often thought of as simply a waste of time and energy, I believe they can be used for much more than mindless scrolling through feeds – like learning

17 year-old Maria Mitko unlocks the potential of social media as an educational tool

society

Meet five Harbingers’ students displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia

To “highlight the wealth that has been lost,” five teenage girls who fled Artsakh in the autumn of 2023 have joined the Armenian Newsroom of Harbingers’ Magazine

17 year-old Maria Mitko explains the background to Harbingers’ new Armenian newsroom

opinion

Video games are the new way to experience stories

Video games are an untapped source of entertainment and stories. In a sense, it is a playable movie; something that you are both watching and controlling at the same time. Today, video games deliver a spectacle in both visuals and world-building

17 year-old Christian Yeung on the untapped potential of video games

opinion

To be or not to be… an international student

Being an international student, attending different schools, seeing other countries and experiencing new environments gives you a lot of opportunities. You are able to find what you like and what you are good at, improve yourself and be prepared for the future

14 year-old Anastasia Kulikova explains the advantages of studying abroad

opinion

Is the price of having an aesthetic too high?

With the rise of social media subcultures, aesthetics have become the new trend. This viral internet trend is becoming an obsession with reducing ourselves to a defined box and capitalising on our purchasing addiction to stay current, but at the expense of the environment and our authenticity

14 year-old Helena Bruździak delves into the social media phenomenon of Gen Z aesthetics

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culture

Teen hero returns for a second helping of heavy-hitting action and powerful emotions

Though not as powerful as the first season, season 2 of Invincible manages to stay fairly steady in terms of quality, with even the weaker episodes being resonant and exciting. I just hope we won’t have to wait another two years for the next season

17 year-old Justin Sau reviews the second season of Amazon Prime’s animated superhero series Invincible

economics

Explainer: What is the blue economy?

As sustainability becomes significantly more prevalent in government policy, a goal for corporations, and a focus of social activism, the blue economy has the potential to shape millions of lives

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska explains the blue economy and its impact on youth employment

society

Educational inequality in Australia: Is there a solution?

Australia’s selective school system was originally designed to provide free, high-quality education to gifted kids who couldn’t afford private schooling, but now it’s fuelling the education divide it sought to remedy

17 year-old Tanya Chi discusses the problems with selective schooling in New South Wales

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culture

Dev Patel’s directorial debut goes bananas

In the world where John Wick and its imitators dominate the action movie genre, Dev Patel picks up a camera, directs and stars to deliver a unique piece full of passion and flare. Monkey Man might not push the boundaries of the genre, but it has everything to become an action cult classic

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Monkey Man, a gritty action movie with a rush of adrenaline

economics

Energy in crisis: why nuclear power could be our future

Since the Industrial Revolution, one primary question has been central to all of humanity’s technological advancements: how do we generate enough energy? Historically, energy was generated with the easiest, cheapest, and most accessible fuel source: coal. However, the dangers of fossil fuels mean that we must find an alternative to ensure Earth continues to be habitable

18 year-old Erin Walshaw investigates our most controversial power supply

science

Murder or holy grail? The controversies in stem cell medicine

In the field of regenerative medicine, the use of stem cells is a highly debated issue. With vast medical progress and promising results experts can’t help but ask “Is it worth one life if you can save thousands, or millions?”

17 year-old Swara Kulkarni examines the future of regenerative medicine

opinion

Are NBA referees killing the game of basketball?

From players making ‘money’ gestures to the referees, coaches angrily discussing film on laptops during press conferences, and even the league’s own Officiating Last Two-Minute Reports commonly displaying multiple incorrect calls, the state of basketball refereeing is incredibly dire. There needs to be more accountability for consistently inaccurate officiating

17 year-old Inika Singh explains the controversies surrounding NBA officiating

economics

The meteoric rise and fall of FTX and its founder Sam Bankman-Fried

The cryptocurrency tycoon was accused of stealing billions of dollars from his customers. The trial of the disgraced CEO has now come to an end, bringing to light the murky details of FTX’s collapse and its consequences

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva chronicles FTX’s collapse and explains its impact on the cryptocurrency world

opinion

Women-only spaces are necessary, not sexist. Here’s why

While opponents can claim that the exclusion of men amounts to sex discrimination, many argue that women-only spaces are a solution to gender inequality. These places prioritise women’s well-being and ultimately, have no negative effect on anyone

17 year-old Maria Mitko explains the importance of women-only spaces and announces the launch of the Women’s Desk at Harbingers’

opinion

Hollywood, please stop making movie musicals!

While stage-to-screen adaptations attempt to capture the essence of the original stories, there is a lingering sense that something is lost in translation – the raw and real energy of live theatre. Hollywood’s attempt to please everyone continually leaves no one satisfied

17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala bemoans the adaptations of stage musicals to film

economics

A novel approach to affordable housing – Habitat for Humanity’s $1 acquisition

As Gen Z enters the job and housing markets, the need for innovative solutions to the housing crisis has become even more critical. Working closely with volunteers, donors, and partner families, Habitat for Humanity is providing a needed solution

17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala sheds light on a new solution to her state’s housing crisis

politics

Gen Z’s opportunity to shape America: The current state of the 2024 US Elections

This November, Americans will cast their votes to determine who will serve as president for the next four years, marking one of the most polarized election cycles in the nation’s history. With over 8mn more Gen Z voters since the 2022 midterms, young voters hold the power to significantly impact the result

17 year-old Emily Dorman explains Gen Z’s position on this year’s US presidential election

economics

How a fire helmet company is revolutionizing workplace inclusion

Phenix’s program, Opportunity for All, is dedicated to improving the employment rate of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) via an innovative education and working program. But it is also a smart business move

17 year-old Inika Singh interviews program administrator Bailey Comstock on how the California firm is helping those with intellectual disabilities

science

Bugs for dinner? Why eating insects is good for you…

Insects are one of the most sustainable food sources we have. Across the world, eating insects remains an important tradition. But not in the West – instead, there are fierce stigmas that surround entomophagy

17 year-old Anna Louise Lovat explains entomophagy and why it could be the next big thing

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culture

An adventurous meditation on love soaked with Italian magic –La Chimera review

Every frame of Italian director Alice Rorhwacher’s La Chimera (a chimera is an illusion or invention of the mind) is permeated with the mythical magic and dizziness of the scorching Italian sun. It manages to be fantastical, amusing, and romantic all at once

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the captivating and dreamy Italian film

opinion

We are bored: Gifted students need challenge to thrive

Gifted and Talented programs have helped students worldwide to enrich their learning. MACC, the Vancouver school program which accelerated the pace of the standard curriculum, has now been redesigned to shorten the support provided to students

18 year-old Erin Walshaw talks about her experience as a gifted student in Vancouver – and the problems she faces

science

The impact of climate change in Australia

In Australia, every decade since 1950 has been warmer. In New South Wales, the most populous state in Australia, locals share how the regularity of seasons has changed

14 year-old Anastasia Kulikova on the detrimental and highly influential effects of climate change in New South Wales

society

‘Misinformation is now produced on an industrial scale’ – Concerns over propaganda on social media

Three in ten children aged 12–15 used TikTok as a news source in 2022. With the rapid growth of social media, misinformation is both accessible and actively promoted to vulnerable young people on an unprecedented scale

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz interviews history student, Gabrielle Segal, on misinformation and propaganda

culture

A guide to Holi – The Hindu festival of colour

Celebrated during the months of Chaitra and Falgun in the Nepali calendar, Holi is a major event. In the capital, Kathmandu, it is full of noisy laughing crowds of people splattered in different colours

Students aged 11-18 from the OXSFJ Nepal Project shared their celebration of Holi Festival

opinion

Esports is a sport. Period

Despite its rapid growth, competitive online gaming isn’t given the same respect as basketball or football, with many still believing it is just an activity for lazy nerds sitting in their mom’s basement. So why should esports be considered a sport?

17 year-old Christian Yeung on the acknowledgment that esports deserves

opinion

Womansplaining mansplaining

Mansplaining. If you’re a woman, I can almost guarantee that you sighed at that word. Societal history has allowed for sexism to take route but there are steps we can take today to reevaluate and correct these behaviours

17 year-old Alia Saphier explains mansplaining and how to break the cycle

opinion

Teens don’t owe you opinions

As a generation we are more motivated than most before us. In spite of adults attempting to skew the opinions of teens on a vast array of unsolvable problems we should craft our own opinions and choose which to fight for

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil on the overloaded choices young people face on social media

society

How volunteers are helping to serve as a ‘beacon of hope’ in Afghanistan

Two years after the Taliban’s supposed temporary ban, another academic year has started, leaving girls in Afghanistan at a greater disadvantage. Inspired by the efforts of organisations to provide education to girls and women, I volunteered and witnessed the difference they can make

17 year-old Zohra on the resilient efforts of local organisations in providing life-changing opportunities to girls and young women in Afghanistan

society

Keep or ditch the monarchy? The perspectives of young Britons

As time passes, younger generations are moving further away from the monarchy. From outdated traditions and scandals to the financial burden on taxpayers, young people outline their opinions on the topic

16 year-old Jefferson He interviews young people on their views of the UK monarchy

climate crisis

Hundreds of Sri Lankan elephant deaths are caused by human activity

Urbanisation and habitat loss has created a ‘frontline’ of worsening conflict between humans and elephants with deadly consequences for both

14 year-old Hesandi Ravisinghe on rising threats against the elephant population

opinion

Why Ukrainians speak Russian

When I’m asked why so many other Ukrainian refugees speak Russian, I am not sure what to answer, as the answer lies beneath complex layers of oppression from our neighbouring country – it is not a preference.

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko outlines the history of linguicide in Ukraine

opinion

The importance of striking a healthy balance on social media

Social media is a realm where borders blur, friendships transcend geographical barriers, and voices resound across continents. But in the vast world of online platforms, we must use these tools wisely to avoid the growing dangers it can pose

17 year-old Shanhaza and 15 year-old Mahwa warn of the dangers hidden in social media’s vast potential

science

Seven things you need to know about eating disorders

Eating disorders, which are among the deadliest mental illnesses, are on the rise worldwide. This article aims to delve into the history and nature of eating disorders, as well as explore the different types of support systems available

17 year-old Maria Mitko sheds light on the prevalence of eating disorders among young people

science

Camembert on the ‘verge of extinction’ – What does this mean for cheese production?

Camembert cheese, one of Normandy’s most precious exports, is ‘under threat’ with its dangerous lack of fungi reproductivity. With a strain to meet high demand, will we soon see this cheese disappear for good?

18 year-old Sofia Radysh explains the challenges facing the popular delicacy

culture

Netflix’s release strategies are dangerous to auteur cinema

As the 2023 award season comes to an end, Netflix has once again gained global recognition for its original content. But could the streaming giant in its pursuit of acclaim pose a danger to the future of cinema?

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin explores the dangers of a never-ending stream of content

opinion

Why are we resistant to traditional offices, and how can we repurpose vacant spaces?

I think my generation is so accustomed to online schooling that we can’t imagine ourselves working from an office. With both a climate and global housing crisis, we could repurpose these spaces to provide a much needed solution

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska on a work-from-home culture and reusing empty offices

human rights

‘Her name was Liza.’ Violence against women is on the rise worldwide

Recent shockwaves over the brutal rape and murder of a women in Warsaw reiterate the dangers women face globally. It seems the United Nations SDG goal to ‘achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’ is far from being achieved by its 2030 date

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh reports on the global implications of a recent crime in Warsaw

society

What young Afghan women want to achieve in the world of technology

Despite bans on women’s education and rights in Afghanistan, technology is enabling them to look beyond their restrictive environment to gain more knowledge and chase their dreams

13 year-old Naziya surveys Afghan women on the potential of technology as a tool of income and education

science

Ways to maintain a healthy and balance lifestyle

Taking time to focus on our habits, our lifestyle choices, and what we put into our bodies, can be difficult and sometimes confronting but taking care of yourself is important undertaking

16 year-old Swita shares her guide to living a healthier lifestyle

opinion

We’re not ‘lazy’, technology has simply made jobs easier and more profitable

“Lazy,” “entitled,” “careless” and “lacklustre” are just some of the words used to describe my generation. But is Gen Z deserving of such names or are these just amplified misconceptions?

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev on corporate rejection amid the changing workplace

society

Interning amongst disenchanted workers, I realised the reality of social mobility in Singapore

With a stable political environment to attract a large share of foreign direct investments, Singapore is no doubt an economic powerhouse. Yet it withheld a more ghastly truth – a vast cityscape of inequality and an overworked population

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang examines the dreams of young Singaporeans

opinion

A medium for kids? Why we should award more Oscars to animated films

Many anime films have received universal praise for their unique storytelling, emotional depth, and thought-provoking themes, yet are largely ignored in other categories at the Oscars. As one of the leading authorities on film, the Academy must spearhead the effort to challenge preconceived notions that animation can’t be taken seriously

17 year-old Justin Sau on the greater recognition animated films deserve

science

‘Extremely alarming’ – Concern raised over global obesity increase amongst young people

Current trends predict a 100% increase of childhood obesity between 2020 and 2035. Despite expert warnings, many countries are failing to address the ‘structural drivers’ of obesity to halt rising levels

17 year-old Sofia Radysh reports on rising global health concerns

human rights

Singaporean LGBTQ+ community still faces a ‘long road ahead’ despite constitutional changes

Despite a shift in governmental policies towards the LGBTQ+ community, discrimination still exists. The government continues to advocate for family units being strictly heterosexual to ‘protect’ the marriage constitution

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang explores progressive steps towards equality

politics

Lib Dems pledge youth-focused agenda: Exclusive interview with Sir Ed Davey

Ahead of the next UK general election, the Liberal Democrat leader promises to continue “knocking on the doors of young people” to listen to their concerns

16 year-old Jefferson He interviews Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey on youth-centric issues

Unique Nepali foods everyone must taste once in their life

Young people in Kathmandu shared with Harbingers’ the traditional dishes they would like every reader to try once landing themselves at the feet of the Himalayas

11 students from Nepal recommend outstanding Nepali cuisine

economics

How many water bottles is too many? The state of overconsumption in America

Stanley Cups recently saw an astronomical increase in sales coupled with a social media craze. Companies continue to capitalize on the fear of missing out and influencer-led marketing campaigns

17 year-old Christian Yeung speaks with economy expert Brianne Foley

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culture

Dune: Part Two achieves the impossible, delivering the grandest space opera to date

Dune: Part Two is a testament to what the medium of cinema stands for. Breaking the boundaries of the sci-fi genre, the film results in one of the best sequels in history

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the second installment a sci-fi great

society

For thousands of teenagers worldwide, MUNs are a gateway to international affairs

Globally recognised as an ‘important contribution’, young people share with Harbingers’ the value of participating in MUN as it’s todays teenagers who are “going to take” the place of politicians in the future

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh interviews Model United Nations participants from Poland

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culture

Miyazaki’s perfect blend of magic and existentialism –The Boy And The Heron Review

Beautiful both visually and story-wise, The Boy And The Heron is a must-watch. It is suitable for every age as almost everyone will find something in the film to relate to

18 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on tantalising cinematography in an emotive animated film

society

10 things you should know about Nepal

From festivals and culture to world heritage sites and areas of natural beauty, teenage journalists in Kathmandu each share one fact about their home country Nepal

Teenagers aged 11-18 from the Mountain Children Home share the beauty of Nepal

ukraine

To end Russia’s influence over Ukraine, we must learn from the past

We cannot change history, but we can learn from the past and start acting in another way. Ukraine gained independence over 30 years ago, but Russian Imperial ambitions still seem to be present

17 year-old Mariia Sydorenko on the problems of ingrained Russian propaganda

sports

From stadiums to screens: the alarming rise of racism in football

With the ongoing 2023–24 football season, it becomes crucial to address instances of racism, which were one of the most commonly reported forms of discrimination last season

16 year-old Isaaq Hussain on persistent racism in football

science

Key things you should know about quantum physics

All of modern technology relies on quantum physics. Phones, TVs, watches, vehicles, and computers only work because of our understanding of electrons’ behaviour. Quantum physics is an incredibly important field with many more developments to come

17 year-old Sofia Radysh breaks down the complex science into a basic guide

opinion

Why growing up as a young woman is scary: A teen’s perspective from Poland

Despite the global progress made in women’s rights in the past few decades, Poland still has a long way to go. The country’s strict abortion laws, gender pay gap and prescribed lifestyle for a woman’s future fills me with fear

17 year-old Maria Mitko on the daunting reality of womanhood

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culture

Simple, sexy film that brings new life to the rom-com genre. Anyone But You Review

Charming leads, an intriguing set-up and a “parent trap” meets enemies-to-lovers trope, what more is there to wish for?

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the explosive chemistry of the newest grand rom-com

opinion

Why disabled individuals ‘do not exist’ in Ukraine

You do not truly realise the extent of your detachment from reality until you encounter a person with a disability and notice the systemic conditioning that leads us to believe that disabilities limit individuals

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko outlines proactive steps to inclusivity

human rights

‘Our world cannot afford to wait’ - International calls for peace intensify over Israel-Gaza war

The Israeli military has begun targeting Rafah, a southern city housing more than a million displaced Palestinians with “nowhere to go.” With around half of Gaza’s population finding shelter in the city, this has the potential to drastically escalate the humanitarian crisis in the region

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the current calls for humanitarian relief

society

Students and teachers fight back against the ‘library selection rubric’ in a Texas public school

Teachers and students in the school district have spoken out against the school board’s decision to filter the literature kept in classroom libraries after complaints from parents

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil explores book banning in the United States

opinion

Oligopolies on the vaccine market hindered saving lives - should Pfizer have profited?

With the UK’s ongoing Covid inquiry, in which an independent organisation is examining the British government’s response to the pandemic, it is worth asking – should this essential drug have ever been for-profit?

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna examines the profit incentives driving pharmaceutical advancement

science

Miracle drug Selinexor hopes to combat a cancer with over a 90% mortality rate

As trials for Glioblastoma continue to progress, Selinexor will undergo more rigorous processes for FDA approval. However, this miracle drug is currently the guiding beacon to many cancer patients’ lives

16 year-old Swara Kulkarni on the early signs of success in clinical trials

culture

Lights out: Broadway shows close prematurely

Since its post-pandemic return, Broadway has struggled to reach its previous levels of success. Closely tied to tourism numbers, theatres are still unable to fill seats and shows are suffering from early closures

17 year-old Alia Saphier reports on the decline of new acclaimed theatre

culture

‘Never-ending search for the snooze button’. Can AI replace humans in writing poetry?

Long considered one of the purest forms of human emotion and expression, will AI be able to produce works that resonate on a profoundly human level like poetry should? Finnish author Jukka Aalho may hold the answer

17 year-old Justin Sau analyses computer-generated poems

opinion

Media depicting women holds one main aim: Giving a space for women to be judged

Defining a woman starts with using words like ‘trailblazer’ and ‘independent’ and ‘controversial’. A set of words is quite a small frame to describe everything that a person could be

16 year-old Sanjana Senthil’s award-winning essay on Women’s Rights

economics

How can banks attract young customers? Understanding Gen Z's preferences

Student debt, AI improvements, and data privacy. In order to target a Gen Z demographic, banks must listen and adapt their engagement strategies

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska investigates young people’s priorities with banking

human rights

US immigration authorities on alert following Honduras migrant caravan crossing

Immigration emerges as a hot topic yet again in the lead up to the 2024 US presidential election and if a new bill is passed by Congress it “would be the biggest changes to immigration law in nearly 40 years” threatening the conditions to asylum

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the growing pressure at the border

climate crisis

‘Save the bees!’ Of course, but which bees?

17 year-old Anna Lovat on the endangered world of 20,000 species

economics

With £28bn ‘green investment’ pledge gone, what Labour’s government will mean for the UK economy

Ahead of the upcoming general election Labour has unveiled a “Five Point Plan for Growth” to promote economic prosperity in all parts of the country. Harbinger’s takes a closer look at each pledge

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev analyses the economic implications of a Labour government

ukraine

Project helping to revive Ukrainian libraries in de-occupied and front-line territories

Russian soldiers have already destroyed more than 120 Ukrainian’s libraries since the full-scale invasion in 2022. A project called “Riznytsia Yе” asks people to buy and donate books to the affected libraries in hopes these efforts will prevent Russian influence

17 year-old Mariia Sydorenko on the ambitions of the project founder, Ukrainian journalist Emma Antoniuk

opinion

Do dogs feel guilty? I think not - you’ve conditioned them that way

It would be nice to believe that our furry pets do share a similar behavioural conscience to us – explaining exactly why they are man’s best friend. Well, science might not be on your side

17 year-old Sofia Radysh outlines the science behind the typical ‘guilty face’

culture

What’s the whole buzz about? The Grammy Awards explained

As we approach the 66th edition of the Grammy Awards, held annually by the Recording Academy, here are the things you need to know to fully appreciate the upcoming ceremony

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh looks under the red carpet of Recording Academy awards

politics

What is ‘first-past-the-post’, and how does one command a majority? UK General Election explained

As the UK prepares for a general election, Harbingers Magazine takes a closer look and explains all the important information

16 year-old Jefferson He explains the background to the upcoming election

politics

‘The south is being left behind’. UNCTAD summit raises concerns over the current international order

With the largest grouping of the global south, the G77 January summit aimed to address the growing gap leaving developing countries behind amidst climate, humanitarian and economic concerns

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova reports on the ‘cascading crisis’ in the global South

politics

US and Iraqi leaders hold first talk over future relations - what does this mean?

US and Iraqi leaders have held their first round of negotiations over the prospective removal of the US-led international military coalition from Iraq following increased tensions

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek reports on the most recent statements from government officials

economics

The rise of careless consumerism among young people

Rapid consumerism fueled by short trend cycles are promoting an unsustainable mindset among the young that clothes are temporary and easily replaceable, ignoring the environmental crisis

17 year-old Shriya Kalluri explores the link between social media and fast-fashion

society

How higher education consulting agencies have a stronghold on college admissions

Getting into a top university is getting astronomically more competitive. With more students turning to college admission consultants for an increased chance of being admitted, the playing field is far from even

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang on the US university admissions system

society

Unattainable ‘angel status’. Patriarchy still skews the narratives of women in power

From fashion breakdowns to dating habits, selective media reporting has long attempted to reduce women in the spotlight to harmful gender stereotypes’

17 year-old Alia Saphier critiques the media’s continual repression of women

opinion

Shadowy, CIA-affiliated Palantir should not be trusted with NHS patients' data

Palantir Technologies has very quickly become a crucial entity in the lives of all Britons, coming into possession of sensitive UK health data. But how do you know about the company’s past?

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva on the legal and moral questions of big data entering the public sector

opinion

Let’s take music seriously. It’s not a soundtrack for picking vegetables at a supermarket

Have we lost the ability to appreciate music? The greatest talent which humanity ever had to offer is now persistently used to assist everyday activities

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh shares ways to better immerse yourself in music

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culture

Why I hated Poor Things but will watch it again and again

The star-studded cast movingly invokes the sense of the uncanny, something that lies at the heart of this modern ‘Frankenstein’ tale

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on female depictions in Yorgos Lanthimos’s film

climate crisis

The world’s biggest iceberg is almost gone

A British polar research ship has begun exploring A23a – an iceberg that recently started moving after decades of stabilisation

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on the last few predicted months of A23a’s existence

human rights

Ropes or Syringes: A Closer Look at the Death Penalty in Singapore

An ethical question on the justification of the death penalty has been debated for decades if not centuries. With a majority 73.7% in public support, I was curious to find out for myself why so many Singaporeans backed a seemingly inhumane punishment

17 year-old Nicole Jin surveys locals on the morality of crime prevention

culture

Doja Cat’s ‘devilish’ controversy. A marketing move or reason for concern?

Doja Cat finds herself amidst whispers of a supposed ‘deal with the devil’. Should her actions be perceived as a deliberate marketing strategy to keep the spotlight burning or as signs of troubling mental health concerns?

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei explores the corrupt nature of fame

opinion

We shouldn’t trust AI in courts - Here’s why

AI has already opened many avenues but within the legal system it was integrated far earlier than most would expect. Police data, on which these software train on, contain a long history of bias that one can’t help but question the validity of its predictions

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz on the dangers of data bias

society

Youth backs Idris Elba’s call to tackle knife crime. ‘Increasing policing is not a solution’

Young people in Oxford not only heard about the Don’t Stop Your Future campaign launched by actor Idris Elba, but recognise the need for better measures against the culture of violence among the youth

15 year-old Klara Hammudeh speaks with the Home Office and young people about knife crime

opinion

Has the movie industry transformed into a risk-averse machine?

As the tsunami of reboots and remakes continues to threaten to overwhelm us, it’s crucial to recognize the consequences of this trend. While nostalgia can provide moments of joy and familiarity, it should not be a substitute for genuine creativity

16 year-old Justin Sau criticises the culture of remakes

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culture

Messy biopic where only battlefields shine: Napoleon review

Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby put on grand performances that are still not enough to save the film from coming across as bloated

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the latest box office disappointment

economics

Major economies tackling the housing crisis: Implications for the youth

The major economies, like the US, China, and the UK, aim to address the housing crisis amid growing concerns about widening affordability gaps. This article will explore how the situation will impact the younger generation who are at greatest risk

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev on the global economic outlook

human rights

Houseless in California - Experiencing a Human Rights Crisis

Reddick, who shared with me his stories, doesn’t just live on the streets. He’s also incredibly spiritual, has a passion for music and fashion, wants to work hard, and wants to financially support and be there for his daughter while she grows up, instead of becoming a sporadic visit

17 year-old Siri Atluri in conversation with a houseless individual

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culture

She is your mirror, and both of you will mirror our reality: May December review

Netflix dropped its Oscar contender, an eerie drama by Todd Haynes which delivers a slow-burner that hits you in the guts

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on the masterfully crafted new film

human rights

Israel-Gaza War: The multifaceted conflict that has resulted in decades of suffering

The recent conflict between Hamas and Israel has defined a bitter chapter in Israel-Palestine’s history. As the toll rises, the urgency of international attention is highlighted against a backdrop of ceasefires and broken truces

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova outlines the history of the modern conflict

society

The lethal surge: How fentanyl addiction has taken hold of young Americans

Opioid addiction in the US is a “public health crisis” with a significant and fatal impact on the youth. Education on the dangers and dosage is a necessity for young people to protect themselves

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva reports on painkiller dependency

society

Helping hands - How Afghan girls are instrumental in providing education

Organisations such as LEARN have been helping girls get an underground education by providing online classes such as science and web design lessons. Through their help and kindness, the power to offer opportunities to others is then passed on into our hands

17 year-old Zohra on the inspiring goal of helping young people follow their dreams

economics

Election outcomes bring optimism into the Polish stock market, experts report

Economist Katarzyna Polanska speaks with Harbingers about the historic stock market upturn and the projections fueling optimism for Poland’s economic landscape

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska reports on the the strengthening of the Polish zloty

culture

Why is Spotify Wrapped such a buzz?

Generation Z has a strong affinity for Spotify Wrapped – a tailored compilation of user statistics for the year, including top artists and total listening minutes – as it reflects their “musical journey” throughout the year

16 year-old Maria Mitko interviews young people about the viral marketing campaign

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culture

A film equivalent to a long hug encapsulates the Christmas spirit. The Holdovers review

The story of three unlikely individuals finding a family bond in uncertain circumstances is medicine for a broken heart. And with its emotional warmth and sentimentally cheerful ending, ‘The Holdovers’ still touches on severe topics of grief and depression – and does that quite well

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on a future Christmas classic

science

“Wrap your mattresses!” French residents take action against bedbug crisis

The ‘crisis’ has been everywhere – across social media sites and national newspapers, highlighting the widespread panic. But what are these bugs and how is Paris trying to fight them off?

17 year-old Sofia Radysh answers the key questions and concerns over the outbreak

climate crisis

COP28: Youth demands to be heard on climate justice on global stage

With the largest youth generation in history, young people have taken to the global stage to highlight their concerns and participate in climate change policy-making

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova reports on the COP28

politics

Four key takeaways from the US Republican presidential debate

The race is on for the next US president and seven candidates are battling it out to win the top seat. Here are the key takeaways and topics from the Republican presidential debate

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek reports on American right’s internal debate

opinion

We need to break the mental health stigma in football. Here is why

Mental health among football players is overlooked, despite being equally vital as their performance on the pitch. I strongly believe it deserves equal attention and recognition

16 year-old Isaaq Hussain argues against the culture of mental health suppression in football

science

“We aren’t faking it.” Tic sufferer warns over condition’s representation on social media

From mediaeval peasants plagued by an uncontrollable urge to dance, to nuns experiencing mass possessions in convents – mass sociogenic illnesses (MSIs) have played a role in history and can also be seen in the present day

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna reports on mass social media-induced illnesses (MSMIs)

opinion

WHO, paying $250 to sexual assault victims in DRC, proves the world justice system is broken

More than 80 aid workers sent to handle the Ebola outbreak in the DRC have been accused of involvement in a sexual assault scandal. And in the end, those without privileges are left with so-called compensation and a traumatic memory for the rest of their lives

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko condemns World Health Organisation’s sexual assault scandal

culture

Rap music on trial. Debate resurfaces over evidence ruling in Young Thug case

The issue of using rap lyrics as evidence in court has recently been reignited by such a high-profile case. Young Thug and his legal team assert that the use of lyrics in court is prejudicial and could affect his right to freedom of speech

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz reports on using art as confession

human rights

Nepal's historic equality milestone: First LGBTQ+ couple celebrate receiving marriage certificate

Last month marked a historic milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in Nepal, as the country officially documented the first same-sex marriage. Surendra Pandey, reflecting on this ground-breaking act said “this is a huge achievement not only for us but for all sexual and gender minorities”

16 year-old Jefferson He reports on minorities' rocky path towards legal marriages

society

Vancouver's New Leaf Project: Providing direct cash assistance to homeless individuals

The initiative aimed to increase the financial stability of those unhoused has far surpassed its expectations. Those who received funds not only became more food secure but also found stable housing much faster, taking three months as opposed to five

17 year-old Erin Walshaw on the promising results to ease homelessness

opinion

Don't just diversify the curriculum, decolonise it

The diversified curriculum does not challenge societal power structures which narrow the dominant perspective through which we view the world. It is imperative that we do not stop here

Sanaa Pasha on the diluted version of colonial history in education

society

Fast fashion’s ugly secret. Numerous brands in legal trouble over intellectual property theft

The fast fashion industry has long been infamous for its exploitation of vulnerable labourers, waste production, and environmental degradation. More recently, however, intellectual property scandals have also mounted against some notable fashion corporations

16 year-old Tanya Chi reports on independent designers’ accusations

society

Dreaming of home: How Armenian teenagers navigate the exodus and loss of Nagorno-Karabakh

Through interviews, the impact of the humanitarian catastrophe on children, young people and families culminated in a shared dream to someday return to their homelands

16 year-old Jefferson He chronicles the humanitarian crisis in Armenia, from the takeover of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), and its profound impact on the youth

economics

Autumn Statement 2023: Four key takeaways for the UK economy

UK Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, delivered economic plans in his Autumn Statement budget for the following years ahead. This article will provide an explainer on the key takeaways

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev explores the economic implications from this years report

human rights

A ‘silent genocide’ in DRC is impacting millions of lives

In the heart of Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stands as a nation marred by a history of conflict and a tapestry of complexity. Described as ‘the silent genocide’, an ongoing conflict in the eastern region has cast a spotlight on the escalating tensions

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova breaks down the escalating tensions in the DRC

opinion

Perhaps it is time to cancel ‘cancel culture’

To many, ‘cancel culture’ and the act of boycotting a public figure, has become an important tool of social justice. However, ‘cancel culture’ prioritises public condemnation without fostering constructive dialogue or providing opportunities for redemption

17 year-old Megan Lee on the social justice of "cancelling"

climate crisis

‘Panda diplomacy’: How furry mammals are used in China’s foreign relations

Recognised across the world for being cute and cuddly, pandas are lesser known for their involvement in global diplomacy

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on the shift in Beijing’s panda policy

economics

How social media influencers reshaped the global marketing landscape

Social media influencers have become crucial drivers of the economy, and their contribution to the global market cannot be ignored. With the rise of social media, e-commerce has taken on a whole new level of significance

18 year-old Nadia Diakowska on the rising value of e-commerce

culture

An unexpected ally: how social media could revitalize reading culture

It’s high time we put down the pitchforks and extinguish the torches we’ve been brandishing at TikTok and Instagram. As it turns out, amidst the sea of hashtags and memes, a world of literary innovation awaits

16 year-old Justin Sau explores the boom in reading culture

opinion

Motivation is helping me face daily obstacles and it can help you too

Girls like me need all the motivation they can get to stay focused and overcome hardship. I’m 16 and I’m unable to get a proper education in my home country of Afghanistan. But I will not let those limitations determine my future

16 year-old Swita on finding daily inspiration and self-help

opinion

Compared to dogs or children, women struggle in the Ukrainian army

Women are a vital part of Ukraine’s future victory but female soldiers continually face restrictions on their basic needs. Instead, women are treated as an object of entertainment rather than living, breathing, and equally capable human beings

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko speaks against the discrimination of women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine

opinion

How Claudia Goldin inspires me by shattering barriers in the male-dominated realm of economics

Goldin presented a previously unheard-of hypothesis arguing that access to the contraceptive pill played a vital role in accelerating the revolutionary increase in female workforce participation, doubling in size between 1960 and 1980

18-year-old Nadia Diakowska on the inspiration from this year’s Nobel Prize winner in Economics

science

Since 1960, the contraceptive pill has revolutionized women's lives. One woman financed the research

The invention of the pill not only gave women the opportunity to plan parenthood, it revolutionized Western societies in gender equality. The pill allowed women to stay in education longer, and pursue professional careers

17 year-old Flora Lodd on the history and future of hormonal contraception

society

Destruction in devotion: how do cults weaponise human vulnerability?

The ambiguity of an ‘end to all’ has been used as a form of exploitation to keep people fearful and submissive – and Charles Manson’s “Helter Skelter” prophecy, a vision heralding an apocalyptic race war, might serve as an example

16 year-old Camilla Savelieva explores how cult leaders use fear to exert power

society

Afghan teenager opens kindergarten to help children “fly off into the horizons of tomorrow”

Shanhaza, at the age of 15, opened her own kindergarten ‘Fly’ to provide free care for infants to equip younger generations with education and opportunity.

17 year-old Shanhaza on her dreams and goals in providing education

politics

Seven things you need to know about the UK Covid inquiry

The COVID-19 inquiry has become the focal point of current affairs in the UK. This guide aims to break down the independent inquiry and answer frequently asked questions

17-year-old Jinn Ong explains the inquiry into the UK’s handling of COVID-19

culture

Is Hollywood saved now the writers’ strike has ended?

Strikes of actors and writers have cost the industry over $6 billion. After all the developments, many teenagers who dream of putting their stories on the big screens began to wonder: is entering the writing industry a good choice?

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin explores the aftermath of the writer’s strike

climate crisis

Learning from Indigenous communities can drive sustainability amid the climate crisis

Indigenous communities make up only 6% of the global population but they conserve 80% of biodiversity. Sustainable practices and respect for the environment are built into their social doctrine which has been passed on for generations

Sanaa Pasha interviews climate activist Yusuf Baluch and Growing up Green founder Amy Campbell

climate crisis

Police arrested 26 climate protestors for ‘serious disruption’ –- Thunberg among those charged

Among protestors stood 20 year-old Greta Thunberg who highlighted before her arrest that they “have no choice but to disrupt” because “our world is being swept away by greenwashing and lies”

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova reports on the Swedish activist’s legal trouble

opinion

Florida is in the middle of ‘Hurricane DeSantis’ but there will be a rainbow after the storm

Florida may serve as a global punchline, symbolizing a strained political atmosphere, internal divisions, and challenges to democratic values within the United States, but the state holds profound significance for the individuals who call it home

16 year-old Emily Dorman on Ron DeSantis’ triad

opinion

Unwritten Dreams. Do I stand a chance to break the generational wealth gap and live the American Dream?

Carved from my parents’ sacrifices, their hopes for a brighter future, and their resilience in the face of adversity, I was grappling with the complexities of “The American Dream” as I questioned whether it truly aligned with the narrative I was enveloped in

17 year-old Abigail Gonzalez Zavala analyzes her chances to make it in 21st century United States

Dust Unto Dust. On my 50th birthday, the only sound from the Ferris wheel will be the dirge of rusty gears

Fifty years. A golden anniversary. A mere blink in the timeline. Before me looms the menacing road of another half-century, dotted with metallic towers that rise from the ground

16 year-old Justin Sau pictures the year 2057

climate crisis

"We can drive systemic change" - Filmmaker urges youth to take action in climate crisis

A feature documentary in production, ‘1.5 Degrees of Peace’, aims to start conversations in the fields of climate justice, peace and disarmament through the power of storytelling

17 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews Kasha Slavner

culture

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour breaks all records. The phenomenon of the star explained

In the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, where stars are rising and falling in the blink of an eye, one name has consistently defied the odds: Taylor Swift. What is the secret behind a country girl who not only stays afloat but continues to be on top of one of the most competitive industries in the world?

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei on the origins of America’s superstar

politics

Presidential election showed how hard Singapore’s ‘balancing act’ is in midst of US-China tensions

Singapore’s ‘neutral’ geo-political stance between the United States and China has become increasingly precarious in the face of rising tensions between the two global giants and escalating Sino-US tensions

17 year-old Jinn Ong on Singapore’s repositioning in the Asia-Pacific theatre

economics

The economics behind the UK’s planned ‘crackdown’ on vaping

The number of children using vapes in the past three years has tripled prompting Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to promise action against vaping, which is to create the first ever ‘smoke-free generation’ in the UK by 2030

18 year-old Timur Boranbayev analyses economic implications of legal suppression of the vaping industry

science

The Thalidomide scandal. A history of greed and neglect that shaped contemporary clinical trials

Thalidomide was a tragedy that is often forgotten and a clear violation of human rights, but it shaped the strenuous clinical trials that take place today. Without the toll of Thalidomide, drug production may not be as safe as it is today

16 year-old Ananya Prasanna on the lesson from pharmaceutical scandal

politics

Kosovo War – understanding the unresolved conflict

The conflict that was supposed to be resolved decades ago is making headlines in world news again, with the media asking ‘Are Kosovo and Serbia on the brink of war?’

17 year-old Mykyta Yaremenko explains the failure of peace process in Kosovo

economics

How will the UK’s ageing population affect our wallets?

The ageing population will likely result in the decline of the UK’s active labour force. This will put greater pressure on the future working population – including today’s teenagers – to deliver the funds necessary for the public sector

17 year-old David Otegbola on the economic future of young people

economics

Market economy and school choice improve academic outcomes, so why don’t we learn from science?

Academic variation driven by wealth and access inequalities shapes the present of today’s students. The income gap between lower and upper-class families is one of the greatest predictors of academic outcomes

17 year-old Grace Minakowski was the runner-up for the Harbinger Prize in Economics

science

Glioblastoma. What’s being done about the cancer with over a 90% mortality rate?

Glioblastoma is a type of cancer which ravages the brain, causing cell death. With 12,000 people being diagnosed with glioblastoma every year, this is truly a cause worth fighting for

16 year-old Swara Kulkarni was the runner-up for the Harbinger Prize in Science

climate crisis

2023 set another record in temperatures. How will the climate crisis impact the economy?

Climate change does not only affect the economy when disasters occur – it impacts the economic wellbeing of people around the world through hard-to-perceive destruction of infrastructure, disruption of global supply chains, and the effect on agriculture

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska on the cost of the warmest September on record

opinion

Denying treatment because women could get pregnant? That’s a new level of toxic absurdity

Women cannot be stripped of basic services, like healthcare, because of their so-called ‘function’, and the word ‘woman’ should not be synonymous with ‘mother’

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko speaks against curbing women’s rights in the US

economics

Will Sunak’s fight against a strained economy win over young people?

Despite an “alarming” unpopularity among young people, Sunak has tried to uphold his economic promises with the hope of influencing voters by alleviating economic burdens to improve the quality of life

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev breaks down the economic policies ahead of UK elections

ukraine

Ukrainian zoos are battling to care for animals amidst the ongoing war

Since September 2022, the Russian military has caused power outages all around the country by purposefully targeting the energy infrastructure of the country which have led to many animals dying in conservation

17 year-old Sofia Radysh reports on the plight of the animals in Ukrainian zoos

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culture

It’s Haunting. Killers Of The Flower Moon review

Released last week, ‘Killers Of The Flower Moon’ delivers an ultimate epic of love, betrayal, and the nature of evil – unveiling this dark, twisted chapter in American history

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin praises new film from Martin Scorsese

opinion

At 12, I promised myself a hysterectomy. That’s how ignorance of menstrual health tortures girls

Young girls like me will continue to suffer because periods are taboo and we are told period cramps are supposed to hurt. The pain of endometriosis is instead chalked up to female sensitivities, low pain tolerance, and the joys of womanhood

17 year-old Erin Walshaw was the runner-up in the Harbinger Prize in Reporting

human rights

History of Australia’s offshore detention camps makes me sickened by my country

Christmas Island is a pristine pocket of land in the Indian Ocean, just below Java, where you will find crystal clear waters, beautiful stretches of white sand beaches, heavenly weather and a long history of human rights violations

15 year-old Tanya Chi essay was the runner-up in the Harbinger Prize in Humanities

climate crisis

Visiting Himalayan vineyards. ‘In a century, Bhutan may be the only winemaking country in the world’

Bhutan may change all we know about wine. Planted in 2022 in Southern Bhutan, Mike’s Gelephu vineyard is an experiment in ‘reverse cycle harvest’. It is an example of how sustainability can become the driving force for innovation and economic growth

18 year-old Diar Boranbayev interviews Bhutan’s first-ever winemaker

politics

Labour Party likely to lower voting age in the UK to 16 on election victory

If Labour’s goal was to be implemented, this would be the largest expansion of the voting franchise since 1969

16 year-old Jefferson He on UK suffrage

society

‘Deranged cultural standards’ - How Sri Lanka’s misogyny is impeding its economic recovery

McKinsey Global Institute estimates that advancing gender equality in Sri Lanka could add $64 billion to its GDP by 2025

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska analyses a negative feedback loop between inequality and poverty

opinion

Are they ‘women politicians’ or politicians? - the challenges women still face in global governance

As a young woman with an aspiration to join the political world in the future, I couldn’t believe the public impudence, the unacceptable behaviour one is signed up to tolerate

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the gender bias in politics

opinion

Why the hell is Holden Caulfield the most relatable character I’ve ever read about?

It is extremely hard to know exactly how we wish our lives to turn out at sixteen. Holden is a byword for this identity crisis, reflecting my experience having contradictory feelings running through at such a pace that I feel trapped and unable to process it all

16 year-old Maria Mitko watches her reflection in Salinger’s famous novel

society

‘Everyone needs hobbies’ - Afghan girls share what makes them happy

From sports to reading and writing, Afghan girls continue to develop themselves and look towards the future with ambition and hope

Four Afghanistan Newsroom students share their favourite hobbies

culture

‘When I am an old woman I shall wear purple, with a red hat that doesn’t go and doesn’t suit me’

The poem represents the freedom of being old and the message of seeing ageing as a positive experience – something to cherish – which has resonated with me since I first heard it at barely five years-old

17 year-old Cressida Anness Lorenz wins the Harbinger Prize in Photography

science

Brains grown in a petri dish. On the potential of organoid intelligence

The human brain is the ultimate supercomputer. OI can unlock the mysteries behind cognitive maturation, neurological, and psychiatric disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia

17 year-old Inika Singh wins the Harbinger Prize in Science

economics

‘It’s like an addiction’ — American teenagers fall victim to online sports gambling apps

Whether through indirect or direct means, teenagers are being influenced to pursue online sports gambling. The rapidly growing industry is preying on those with underdeveloped minds, increasing profits to the detriment of future generations

17 year-old Arham Shah wins the Harbinger Prize in Economics

climate crisis

Disappearing in the Pacific. Their islands are sinking, yet we can barely hear calls for help

In the heart of the Pacific Islands, a chorus of student voices resonates together to paint a vivid picture of hopes, concerns, and aspirations despite the nuanced, complex threat that they face

18 year-old Chenxi Zhang wins the Harbinger Prize in Reporting

society

Flowers for the Future enables Afghan students to “bloom”

Amidst challenges posed by the Taliban’s restrictions, the support from individuals around the world and organisations like FFF are “a source of inspiration”

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimanova interviews the student-run organisation that supports the ‘rights of students across the world to education’

society

From nature trips to shop opening: how Afghan girls spent summer holidays

Afghanistan does not only mean crises and restrictions. It is a country filled with mesmerising landmarks, historical monuments, nature and a vibrant culture

Five students of the Afghanistan Newsroom share their summer experiences

science

My 50th birthday: A world without food

A future where real food doesn’t exist anymore may sound like quite a bleak and dystopian future. But this is far closer than we think with the 26-year timer we find ourselves on

17 year-old Christian Yeung wins the Harbinger prize in Humanities

science

Bugs are friends, not foes. Historical neglect of US government to human-insect symbiosis

It is no exaggeration to say “insects make the world go round”. From pollination to nutrient recycling, to biological pest management, and even genetic research — without them, our ecosystem would not function. Insects provide the United States with over $57 billion yearly of ecological service, in terms of dung burial, pest prevention, and pollination.

17 year-old Anna Lovat won The Harbinger Prize 2023

opinion

Mass destruction of Ukrainian nature will have a huge impact on the future

The consequences of war have not only ruined lives and negatively impacted the mental health of Ukrainian civilians, but it will also result in long-term ecosphere damage

17 year-old Sofia Radysh interviews UAnimals on the environmental crisis

opinion

Ukraine’s leniency towards sexual assault is irreconcilable with our nation’s European aspirations

A recent crime in the Zakarpattya region of Ukraine has proven once again how prevalent the problem with punishment for sexual violence is in the Ukrainian legal system

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on misogyny embedded in Ukraine’s legal system

climate crisis

Long-term recovery underway in the Mediterranean following widespread fires

With the elements of strong wind, high temperatures and trees, a rampage of wildfires formed in the Mediterranean in July. Italy, North Africa and Greece are now recovering from this disastrous fire

16 year-old Jefferson He speaks with affected locals

opinion

Trump administration disregard Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s last words

“My most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed” – the final words of Ruth Bader Ginsburg to her granddaughter, has seen the former justice’s worst fear brought into reality

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the notions of progress

sports

Why are more football stars making the move to Saudi Arabia?

While also stirring up controversy, the Saudi league has been growing at an insane rate and has attracted numerous big names, including the likes of Ronaldo

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain on the international transfer market

opinion

Dying languages: Cultures are being eradicated in silence

Language is often reduced to a tool for basic communication, neglecting its human and cultural significance. Global warming and urbanisation are forcing linguistically diverse communities to migrate, assimilate, and abandon their ancestral tongues

Sophie Yu on the fight to save forgotten languages

economics

Understanding Poland’s economic transformation would enable Sri Lanka to learn from Warsaw’s errors

Many experts fear that in light of the recent economic crisis, the Lankan government’s sole focus will be debt disposal, hence the introduction of reforms may occur in a haphazard way, jeopardising the country’s security

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska speaks with economic experts Marcin Zielinski, Professor Adam Bodnar, and Filip Konopczyński

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culture

Why was 'Secret Invasion' such a flop?

The biggest disappointment is that for a show with shape-shifting aliens it has absolutely no mystery, which is so needed here. ‘Secret Invasion’ does a lot of telling and not a lot of showing, which essentially comes back to its cheapness

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on the wasted potential of the Marvel star-studded series

human rights

Inside Greek refugee camp Ritsona’s mission to ‘safeguard human rights’

At Ritsona refugee camp, a group of asylum seekers gathered to share their stories about how they reached Greece, how the camp is supporting them, and the struggles they face which included frustrations with the asylum procedure

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova visits and speaks with members of Ritsona refugee camp

economics

How the UK Cost of Living Crisis is affecting migrants

Since 2021, the economic situation in the UK has started to worsen, and this has affected many people, both citizens and non-citizens. However, while the government is providing some support to British citizens, migrants are being overlooked

17 year-old Jakub Hejka interviews Polish migrants on the Immigration Health Surcharge

human rights

'Invisible to the Ukrainian legislation' - What it means to be queer in Ukraine

The question of LGBTQ+ rights in Ukraine is now more important than ever, as lots of these people are defending the country every day, and apart from that, are equally Ukrainian citizens who deserve to be recognized as such

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews Ukrainian legal activists Tania Kasian and Maxim Potapovych

politics

Ageism: How young MPs are battling for political recognition

In today’s society, their role is arguably not considered as inspirational as that of pop stars or maybe even athletes. But why not? Young MPs seem to have an even greater fight for this interest, and for recognition in the political sphere

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain on youth accessibility in UK politics

society

Meet nine Harbingers’ student journalists from Nepal’s ‘earthquake generation’

The people in Nepal are even better than the county’s stunning views. At the Mountain Children’s House, an orphanage of 32 minors, I spoke to young people who eagerly shared their bold hopes and dreams

16 year-old Jefferson He introduces the newest Harbingers' project

politics

The US 2024 election, explained

The US 2024 election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024. The winner will be inaugurated in January, 2025. As the presidential election day approaches, Harbingers Magazine takes a closer look

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek outlines all the important information you need to know

culture

How samurai traditions live on through Kendo - a sport rooted in ancient Japanese culture

“The cultural and ceremonial aspects of Kendo hold great importance. Kendo represents not only a sport or technique but also embodies a martial art rooted in rich history and tradition. It reflects the enduring spirit passed down through generations”

15 year-old Noah Saphier shares valuable lessons from Kato Sensei

culture

Contested artefacts from the British Museum: 7 things you need to know

In recent years, many countries where these artefacts originated have become more vocal in calling for their return, arguing that the objects were taken unethically and without consent

16 year-old Justin Sau outlines the appeals for repatriation

opinion

Universal higher education should be free. Here’s why

Education should not be privileged and only available to those that can afford it but to everyone. Access to higher education is a necessity not only for people but also for our economy to continue developing

17 year-old Jakub Hejka evaluates the wealth divide in higher education

climate crisis

Greece on ‘high alert’ as country deals with aftermath of widespread wildfires

Wildfires in Rhodes led to a state of emergency on the island after relentless blazes in Greece started on July 17 and remained out of control for seven days, triggering large-scale evacuations

16 year-old Anastasiia Tkachuk covers the climate crisis in Greece

opinion

New ethics legislation on the US Supreme Court is critical to preserving the rule of law

Increasing transparency standards, strengthening the withdrawal process, and requiring Supreme Court justices to adhere to a binding code of conduct is a modest yet essential step to tackle corruption

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the vital regulations needed

opinion

Sri Lanka’s restructure of State-Owned Enterprises may pose a threat to the safety of the country

Following the 2022 bankruptcy, the Sri Lankan government has been implementing tough reforms to improve the economy. It appears as though the government is too focused on paying off debts to acknowledge the possibility of compromising safety

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska outlines deficiencies in the government’s decision-making

opinion

This year’s A-Level students are experiencing their greatest fear

I believe that teachers play a major role in a students education. With teachers in the UK going on a series of strikes, it impacts both their GCSE and A-Level results

16 year-old Jefferson He on the unfair change in grade boundaries

opinion

Titanic sub highlights need for more ocean exploration, not less

While many set their sights on the vast expanses of the Milky Way, we ignore our own precious little blue-green marble. Over 80% of the ocean has never been explored, mapped, or even seen

16 year-old Justin Sau on the untapped potential of our seas

opinion

To solve US alcoholism youth should be drinking sooner. Here’s why

From completely banning alcohol to lowering the legal drinking age to 18, to raising it again to 21, nothing seems to solve US alcoholism. I feel that creating any type of concrete barrier creates desire for youth, it creates a natural incentive to want it more

15 year-old Noah Saphier on the legal age of drinking

economics

Despite the highest inflation in years, Poland’s central bank keeps interest rates unchanged

The Narodowy Bank Polski (NBP) keeps its main interest rate at 6.75% despite double-digit inflation rates, prompting accusations that its decisions are a result of political influence

17 year-old Jakub Hejka looks at the current economic situation

opinion

Are vapes truly safe alternatives to cigarettes?

As a British teenager, I feel that I am constantly exposed to flashy and colourful images of e-cigarettes which is a new way to get young people addicted to nicotine

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain gives his opinion on the UK vape “epidemic”

opinion

Sexual assault should not have a timer

The whole case is another terrifying example of how the justice system worldwide fails victims of sexual assault once again and promotes inconsequential violence, as well as gaslighting the victims into silencing their stories and experiences

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko looks at a recent sexual assault case in Italy

economics

Volatility of Sri Lanka Rupee signals the economic crisis is not over for recently bankrupt country

In July, the LKR lost 6% of its value against the USD, and was the worst-performing currency in South-East Asia. The decline of LKR suggests that the economic crisis in the country that went bankrupt in 2022, is far from over

17 year-old Nadia Diakowska reports on the current economic situation in Sri Lanka

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culture

Oppenheimer review: Three-hour long biopic nothing short of mind-blowing

In unity with cinematography, sound design, and the soundtrack Nolan creates a horrifically immersive experience which controls every atom in the viewer’s body

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews Nolan’s newest blockbuster

society

Women’s World Cup inspiring a new generation of girls into the sport

The Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand is on track to receive the highest attendance numbers for the tournament to date, with interest in the women’s game on the rise

15 year-old Isaaq Hussain covers the recent historic achievements of the sport

politics

Trump stays popular among Republicans despite felony charges

The US 2024 presidential elections are just around the corner and according to latest polls, the Former President Donald J Trump has been crushing his rising competitors

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek follows the US presidential election polls

sports

Is soccer taking over football? Messi’s success brings Inter Miami CF 13 million Instagram followers

In the past, MLS in the US has not been taken seriously in the football world. However, with the help of Messi bringing the media and football stars’ attention, change is seemingly on the horizon

15 year-old Noah Saphier on the rise of Major League Soccer

The literary, linguistic, and acoustic metamorphosis of translation

The process of translating poetry, as I have learned, is not merely using a dictionary to transcribe word-for-word from one language to another

17 year-old Sophie Elliot translates Mihály Babits’s ‘Magyar szonett az őszről’

climate crisis

"Proportionate response to disastrous decision" - Greenpeace defends controversial protest

Activists from the campaign group climbed Rishi Sunak’s £2 million grade-II listed manor home in North Yorkshire on Thursday, August 3 and draped it with black cloth in protest of the PM’s plans to grant new licences for oil and gas extraction in the North Sea

16 year-old Justin Sau reports on the mixed response of climate action

science

NASA restores full contact with the lost Voyager 2

One of the objectives of both Voyager 1 and 2 is to ‘help scientists understand the very nature of energy and radiation in space’. With the continued close up study of space, it will help NASA and scientists to lower the risk factors in the future exploration in space

16 year-old Jefferson He reports on space exploration

science

IFSC weighs in on athlete eating disorder concerns following criticism

As a sport where you have to fight gravity, climbing has a high percentage of eating disorders. The IFSC has responded to climbers and former members of its medical committee speaking out about outdated health standards in competitive climbing

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the response from athletes and the medical community

opinion

Russian athletes are once again showing disrespect and officials are doing nothing about it

Disrespect towards Ukrainians from Russians is an everyday occurrence everywhere in the world and this time it was present at an international sports arena

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the politics of sportsmanship

human rights

Greek newspaper Migratory Birds helps refugee teenagers ‘fly high’

It was the initiative of 15 Afghan teenage girls and one Greek girl, who decided it was time for the refugee population to be truly heard. The project’s aim is to introduce young refugees to the principles of journalism and media while helping them to integrate into the Greek community

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews experts at youth magazine Migratory Birds

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culture

Barbie review: A must-watch, the allegedly ‘anti-men’ pink extravaganza will make you cry

Barbie is a must-watch for everyone, for young and for old, for women and men. It’s a beautiful story with a powerful message which will leave you thinking about your own experiences and understanding of the patriarchy and how it in fact isn’t about horses

17 year-old Sofia Radysh reviews the record-breaking box office film

society

Days that marked Afghan girls’ lives

There are days in everyone’s lives that they mark the most regardless of being good or bad. Five students of the journalism learning project at Harbingers’ Magazine – Shanhaza (17), Swita (16), Zainab (13), Naziya (13) and Zohra (17) – interviewed each other to find out about the days that impacted them the most

13-17 year-old Afghanistan Newsroom students share their life experiences

society

How eco-friendly art is empowering refugees in Greece to raise awareness of crises

Art has been used throughout history as a powerful tool that documents time and evokes emotions. On the Greek island of Lesvos, it is helping refugees raise awareness of their ongoing struggles

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova visits Humade Crafts Workshop

society

Actors joined striking writers to save Hollywood as we know it

With actors’ walk-outs – including at the notable premiere of Oppenheimer in London, where Cillian Murphy, Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, and Florence Pugh all left the theatre – and arrested productions, the entertainment industry is suffering colossal stock price losses

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports on the ongoing strike

culture

'Barbenheimer': is this the most important box office battle in a decade

Barbie is winning, and it is hardly surprising. After all, one film is about dealing with mortality, the sense of self purpose, and challenging American elites, and the other one is a historical thriller titled Oppenheimer

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin on ‘counterprogramming’ movie marketing

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opinion

Rooney’s debut is a must-read for young people. Conversations with Friends review

Sally Rooney did a fantastic job levelling with the reader on many personal, almost gentle levels. This makes this book a must-read for young people – teenagers, those in their 20s or even 30s – who want a light read that also touches you and makes you ask questions you never thought would occur

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reminds of Rooney’s 2017 masterpiece

culture

Lewis Capaldi talks mental health after Glastonbury stage Tourette’s

The Someone You Loved artist faced a moment of crisis when performing at Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei on the lesson learnt at Glastonbury

society

Meet five Afghan girls who dream big for their future

After the Taliban seized power in August 2021, they banned girls from receiving a high school education. Despite these hardships, they are still determined to achieve their goals

13-17 year-old students of the Afghanistan Newsroom share their aspirations

society

Youth revolted in France after police shot 17 year-old boy

Over the course of last week, violent riots have wreaked havoc in Paris and its suburbs. The protesters burned cars, vandalised police stations and even let animals from the Paris Zoo out. Rioters have torched 2,000 vehicles since the start of the unrest

17 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports on French protests against police brutality

economics

Turkey’s economy: Could the re-election of Erdogan pose a threat?

Despite actions made for economic recovery, there are 4 reasons explaining why the prosperity of Turkey’s economy may be under threat

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev analyses the election repercussions

ukraine

“The numbers affected is catastrophic” - Impact of war on domestic animals in Ukraine

Around 300 hundred dogs died over the course of the month when they were left alone and the town was occupied by Russian military forces. Anastasiia shared with Harbingers the first-hand experiences of volunteering to help the animals still alive

17 year-old Sofia Radysh speaks with animal experts on the frontline

ukraine

What would happen if Russia tried to sabotage the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant?

The plant, the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, has been under Russian control since last year. According to Zelenskiy, Russian sabotage would result in a massive leakage of radioactive material that could reach neighbouring European countries

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the probability of nuclear disaster

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culture

A story that will keep you webbed to the seat. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse review

The sequel takes everything the audience loved about the first Spider-Verse movie and turns it up a notch – if not more

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews the latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe

opinion

Auto-tune overload. Aren’t we sacrificing musicality for so-called perfection?

Excessive use of auto-tune technology, especially when employed to distort the voice during a live performance, sparks debates about authenticity and emotional connection with the audience

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei takes the side of human imperfection

opinion

Unabomber exemplifies dangers of the far-right’s romanticisation of terrorists

On June 10, Theodore “Ted” Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, died in prison unleashing a social media storm of Unabomber fans wishing him to rest in peace, revealing to the world a harmful and dangerous personality cult

17 year-old Mykyta Yaremenko on Ted Kaczynski’s right-wing fandom

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culture

Rare glimpse into 21st century politics of sex and desire. The Right to Sex review

Amia Srinivasan’s collection of six nonfiction essays is an impressive debut. Writing about rape culture, student-professor relationships, prostitution, and pornography, Srinivasan is unafraid to linger near the precipice of taboo

17 year-old Sophie Elliott reviews the 2022 Orwell Prize shortlisted book

opinion

Do we prefer AI to shape future generations than to invest in human teachers?

While the global market, however, is leaning towards AI to shape the worldviews of our next generation over human teachers, this does not mean it is the right direction to be headed in

17 year-old Megan Lee follows the money in education

ukraine

Russian aggression will add another layer to Ukraine’s intergenerational trauma

It is impossible to understand the impact the current Russian aggression will have on Ukrainian society without taking into account the scars left by the Holodomor, World War 2, and Chornobyl

16-year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews mental health expert Lidiia Kasyanchuk

opinion

Animal testing made its way onto the big screen. It may be a sign of change

Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 3 is more than a great movie – it also offers insight into cruelty disguised as animal testing

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on animal testing

science

7 ways AI could benefit healthcare

The development of AI leads to lots of new and exciting possibilities of its applications in the modern world, including within healthcare. This article will outline 7 ways in which AI can benefit healthcare and the challenges associated with adopting it

18 year-old Grace Whitehouse outlines the practical uses of the technology

politics

US Supreme Court ruled against Alabama’s violation of the Black voters rights

In a surprise to many civil rights activists the US Supreme Court judges struck down the electoral map of the state of Alabama because it discriminated against Black voters by a five-to-four decision

17 year-old Mykyta Yaremenko reports on the Congress decision

The art of ‘bad’ art: on Tracey Emin’s My Bed

In Tracey Emin’s My Bed, we realize that art is about expression, meaning, and the authenticity of human emotion. In using such an evocative installation, Emin not only illustrates the active and almost rebellious voice she takes on as an artist but emphasizes the beauty in chaos

17 year-old Megan Lee explores the art of confession

climate crisis

COP28: Controversies surrounding the first ever global environmental stocktake

Months before the COP28 in the United Arab Emirates, the United Nations climate summit’s president is facing severe backlash over his background in the fossil fuel industry

17 year-old Anatolii Mishustin reviews expert concerns

ukraine

Eco-crisis unleashed. Consequences of Kakhovka Dam destruction trigger international investigation

On June 6, 2023, the Kakhovka Dam, a largest object of this type in Ukraine, was blown up. The explosion caused a massive catastrophe for the region’s residents and the environment, prompting an investigation from the International Criminal Court (ICC)

14 year-old Sofia Vorobei reports on the consequences of the disaster in Ukraine

opinion

Poles have had enough! Opposition leader Donald Tusk galvanises Poland’s fight for its democracy

The liberal-democratic Civic Coalition (KO), with the former president of the European Council, Donald Tusk, at the helm, has a chance to take power in Poland. Its electoral campaign was launched with an anti-government rally against the opposition

16 year-old Stanislaw Sankowski explains why 500,000 people marched through Warsaw

ukraine

How Russians are ‘liberating’ animals in Ukraine? Now they stole a tiger cub from a zoo in Mariupol

The Mariupol City Council reported that the cub had been living at the zoo. After his mother refused to feed him, he was looked after by a local shepherd dog. Occupants have now decided to relocate the cub to Moscow and train it for circus performances

17 year-old Sofia Radysh on animal welfare under attack

opinion

Should English Literature be replaced by Global Literature in schools?

In our increasingly diverse and globalized society, the Western canon seems not only restrictive but also exclusionary, calling into question whether the subject of English Literature should be replaced by Global Literature to best reflect the status quo at hand

Megan Lee considers the value behind teaching literature

economics

Maintain or abolish the Monarchy? The impact of the Royal Family on the economy

Debates over the continuation of the Royal Family have reawakened as taxpayers covered the £100 million being spent on the Coronation amid a cost of living crisis. Questions over the value of the Monarchy are once again at the forefront of people’s minds

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev speaks with an expert and reviews the figures of spending

culture

‘Quantity of good Ukrainian music has risen on an aspirational scale’

“We need to win the war and start rebuilding. Not only buildings and infrastructure but also our culture. Because there will come a moment of exhaustion after such a long fight, but we still need not forget that there is a future”

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko interviews 19-year-old musician and producer Bogdan “SadSvit” Rozvadovskyi

human rights

Sudan’s military power struggle results in humanitarian catastrophe

Homes and other civilian infrastructure have been destroyed. UNHCR disclosed that “densely populated residential areas of Khartoum, Bahri, Omdurman and towns in Darfur and North Kordofan are facing electricity cuts, a lack of healthcare and basic services, while running out of food, water and medicines”

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova outlines the current situation in Sudan

economics

Single currency for East Africa: 7 things you need to know

A single African currency for East Africa is targeted to be instituted by the African Central Bank by 2028 to create an ‘economic and monetary union’. Harbingers’ Magazine has created this explainer to outline the details of the plans

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev breaks down the economic implications

politics

Former US president Donald Trump appears in court on 34 felony charges

The indictment against Trump is based on allegations that he violated state and federal campaign funding regulations. Observers disagree on whether Bragg has developed a viable case. Some believe Trump will get off the hook. Others believe the first prosecutor to indict a president has a fair probability of success

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek explains the ongoing case

society

Turkey - Syria earthquakes: How to help those in need

On Monday, February 6, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake started in southern and central Turkey with the epicentre in Gaziantep and western Syria. The earthquake, which was followed by several deadly aftershocks, resulted in a death toll of more than 50,000 and injured “thousands more”

Mariia Piltiai on the relief organisations to support

science

When the atmosphere fails. Is our civilisation at risk of being destroyed by an asteroid?

Humanity has many issues to worry about – climate change, nuclear escalation, scarce resources, and overpopulation, to list just a few. An asteroid attack is another worry, arguably the most abrupt and outside our control

16 year-old Riana Banga on planetary defence

opinion

The Economist’s surprisingly shallow attempt at cracking Gen-Z customers

The Economist’s analysis of young customers falls short of a genuine attempt to give a platform to Gen-Z. It feels like writers and editors have not taken the time to understand and embrace the complexity of the ‘new world of shopping’ they attempted to explain’

18 year-old Natasha Banga on the misaligned voice of youth

science

Chameleons are the most remarkable and amazing creatures. Here’s why

Chameleons are one of the most diverse and complex animals, with over 200 species and a range of adaptations

13 year-old Lidya Gaspar outlines the incredible traits of chameleons

society

Could Prince Harry’s history of drug use undermine his US visa?

US immigration law has harsh penalties for lying to immigration officials, including deportation and being barred from applying for citizenship. Nile Gardiner, a director of the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom said “this is a much bigger issue than Prince Harry. It is about enforcing immigration law and ensuring that no one is above the law. Prince Harry is simply the tip of the iceberg”

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the current status of the visa investigation

culture

Ukrainian music is much more than ‘sharovarshcyna’. Meet four ‘hidden gems’ bands and artists

The world is now starting to realise how unique and vast the Ukrainian culture is. With music being a major part of it, we, the Ukrainians hope that soon we will no longer be prisoners of the ‘traditional folk’ paradigm – that Ukrainian music ceases to be.

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko shares four up-and-coming Ukrainian artists

opinion

Unchangeable US police force is responsible for countless unjustified deadly arrests

In order to stop this cycle of repeated police brutality, the system must be changed. Acts, such as the George Floyd Justice in Policing bill should be passed and encouraged

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova looks at the consequences of excessive force in the case of Tyre Nichols

politics

Report revealed deeply concerning strip-search practice on thousands of children in England and Wales

The 363-page report, which looked at the standards of behaviour and culture of the Met, not only highlighted the ‘significant racial disproportionality’ in the strip searches of children by police but also revealed shocking cases within the police force

16 year-old Jinn Ong on the results of the Children’s Commissioner report

opinion

Navalny should not have been a winner of an Oscar award

This movie being recognised and celebrated is unacceptable, no matter how good the quality of it might be. Such distinguished organisations with influential platforms like the Academy should consider the context of the movie before representing it

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko on the political messages of award-winning films

science

ChatGPT: 7 things students need to know

The launch of ChatGPT has sparked numerous controversies, especially relating to its role in education. This article will explain all the details that students are curious about

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse outlines the AI technology

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culture

Babylon’s storytelling of early Hollywood failed to hit the mark - it instead made me gag

While I am not a particular fan of graphic and aggressive movies, I was excited for Babylon. So obviously, my expectations were high, and I decided to throw away my initial biases against Babylon and its gruesomeness. So what did this three-hour long extravaganza provide me with? Nothing but disappointment.

Sofia Radysh's take on the all-star Hollywood film Babylon

society

Places in Tanzania worth visiting for their beauty

In my different trips around Tanzania I have visited some worthwhile places, such as Fish Eagle Point and Mkomazi National Park

13 year-old Lidya Gasper shares stories from her trips around the country

ukraine

Ukrainian ‘grains of truth’. One year of farming under Russian missiles

As the Russian invasion of Ukraine hits its first anniversary, Ukrainian farmers are facing a new set of challenges for keeping the title of the ‘breadbasket of the world’

Sophie Abromaviciute on the impact the war has on Ukrainian agriculture

opinion

What exactly is Justice? The flawed concept behind the death penalty in the US

Organisations such as the Innocence Project work to liberate the innocent, avoid wrongful sentences, and establish systems of justice that are fair, humane, and impartial for all. There have already been 375 cases of exoneration in the US due to new DNA testing, including 21 people serving on death row.

17 year-old Aleksandra Lasek on the importance of re-examination of evidence

How political art is used to influence people

Art, as a reflection of an artist’s view of the world, is influenced by the events happening around, including politics and wars. And just like art, propaganda is also influenced by them. Propaganda, as it is known, is the dissemination of information to influence public opinion

16 year-old Kateryna Kalyniuk outlines the history of propaganda

human rights

The fight for trans rights in the UK continues

The Scottish bill aimed to reform gender recognition guidelines got vetoed but the UK government. In response to the UK’s intervention, Stonewall, a British charity that supports LGBTQ+ youth throughout the United Kingdom, said: “These are not the actions of a government that can stand on the international stage as a credible defender of LGBTQ+ rights.”

16 year-old Sofiya Tkachenko reports the current policy on gender recognition

climate crisis

UN reached an agreement to protect 30 percent of high seas. Talks took almost 20 years

The new treaty includes territory protective measures on marine reserves and environmental impact assessments concerning human activity on the high seas, which the UN immediately described as ‘historic’. The new convention, however, has yet to be formally adopted and ratified by at least sixty states in order to come into force.

17 year-old Flora Lodd reports on breaking climate news

economics

The cost of living crisis: Financial impact on young people

The cost of living crisis has caused young people to be financially disadvantaged, with the ongoing situation set to deteriorate in the coming months

17 year-old Timur Boranbayev on the long-term economic consequences to youth

culture

Are the Peranakans a part of Singapore’s past or a heritage shaping my life choices?

As I deepened my research into Peranakans, I began to realise that my ancestors far exceed their reputation as creators of imaginative cuisine and eclectic architecture. In fact, the culture not only shapes the Singapore we see today but has largely influenced the choices I have made in life

16 year-old Jinn Ong inquires whether and how it is possible to be Peranakan in the 21st century

human rights

‘Girls go missing, schools are closed down, teachers persecuted’. Fight for education in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan

Pashtana Dorani is the founder of an organisation running ‘illegal’ underground schools for girls in Afghanistan. She knows first-hand the struggles girls and those teaching them face since the US and their allies withdrew and the Taliban regained control of the country

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews Afghan human rights activist

science

The maths of the COVID-19 era. The pandemic told in four equations

A difference of R, as little as one, has dramatic effects on the number of those infected within a population which without intervention would continue to increase at a rapid rate thus resulting in increased numbers of deaths

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse uses her own calculations to explain COVID-19 with maths

opinion

‘Know your DNA’ databases could fall into the wrong hands. Policymakers should regulate it

Even with all precautions employed, there is always a chance of getting hacked. Nothing indicates that ancestry DNA databases store personal data in any different place than the information about one’s DNA

18 year-old Gleb Mishin explains the cybersecurity dangers behind DNA testing

climate crisis

The sixth mass extinction. These five species were recently declared extinct

Currently 28% of all assessed species on earth – more than 42,100 out of 150,388 – are endangered, according to the Red List of Threatened Species, edited by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

17 year-old Flora Lodd on the rapid decline in biodiversity

opinion

Lessons have not been learnt, international law is not stopping Russia

The notions of genocide and crimes against humanity are two essential building blocks for international law and vital parts of the efforts to protect human rights. In his 2016 book East West Street, British writer and lawyer Philippe Sands explains the origins of these notions

Aleksandra Lasek on the constraints of the international criminal law system

society

The Cost of Living Crisis: Concern over rise in abandoned pets

The cost of living crisis not only impacts individuals, but also rescue centres and the lives of volunteers, who are relied heavily on to keep centres running

Sofia Radysh investigates animal welfare during the UK cost of living crisis

ukraine

The secret price of the war in Ukraine

As a Ukrainian and representative of the young generation, I am worried about the price my country pays for the current war not only in the matter of sacred lives but also nature. Ecology might seem insignificant in comparison to the scale of human tragedies that are happening right now, but isn’t ecology also a matter of saving lives?

Maria Rybak speaks to experts on the ecological situation in Ukraine during war

culture

During a pandemic-haunted summer, I discovered a million-word long story and joined the fanfiction faction

Has finishing a good story ever left you feeling empty? As if nothing could ever come close to the experience of living, however briefly, inside the tale? You sit there, thinking of all the lost possibilities, the plotlines that were not explored, the what-ifs. What if this character survived? What if that character were born into an entirely different world?

18 year-old Zachary Górka explains the phenomenon of fanfiction literature

culture

Regardless of the production, beauty overrules inequity. On religion and ethics in Puccini's Tosca

“The arch of the whole opera questions what religion, spirituality and Catholic hypocrisy are,” said Michael Gieleta when on the opening night, I spoke to him about his production’s interpretation of Tosca’s religious themes. “This concerns Tosca herself, who drew moral superiority from murdering Scarpia and took her own life – two cardinal sins according to the Catholic Church teachings.”

Sophie Elliott investigates the famous opera

opinion

Italy’s direct help for Ukrainian refugees is rooted in its EU membership

A question arises: does Italy have double standards and treat people differently depending on where they come from? Or is there a reasonable explanation for the difference in attitudes towards the two groups of refugees?

17 year-old Marco Morchio on difference in Italy's approach to conflicts in Syria and Ukraine

(Un)Open art. Why is modern art so intimidating?

The feeling of misunderstanding art usually evolves from a lack of curated education. But if art is supposed to be free, should education truly play a crucial role in enjoying it?

Maria Chernova shares her opinion on the openness of art and closedness of art recipients.

opinion

Young people will pay the price for Putin’s push to re-enact the Cold War

Restoration of the Cold War is the last thing we need in the face of the climate crisis. Now more than ever, what we need is more cooperation between countries

16 year-old Sufiya Suleimenova explores the NATO expansion and climate change concerns

Art of forgetting and remembering. On Lithuania's path to the commemoration of Holocaust victims

Memory is by no means neutral, and the pain of it demands decision. To what extent should we remember at all? What does it mean to remember rightly? Is the idea of memory even possible?

17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on relations between art and history

opinion

Cold Hard Cash, or Change Agent? Charities and the For-Profit Revenue Model

In the world of charitable giving, profit is a dirty word. Most charities rely heavily on donations as their primary source of income. Charities and businesses are divided, not only by their aims, but their revenue streams. Yet, in the bustling city of Kathmandu, I came to question the conviction of this dichotomy

Dylan Yip on incorporating business practice into charity

ukraine

‘It feels like I am living someone else’s life’, says Viktoriya, teenage refugee from Ukraine

When the war started, I felt confident and fearless. I believe because we had to move fast and think fast, my adrenaline was boosted, and this made me experience confidence. Over time, I calmed down and processed the situation. As I realised that my life was not stable anymore, my home was not safe, a feeling of fear started to develop

17 year-old Viktoriya Lysenko is interviewed by HRB's Italy correspodent Marco Morchio

opinion

Standing by Mahsa Amini. Iran’s rise against oppression is yet another youth’s call for change

The Iranian theocracy is only a particularly outrageous, outdated, and brutal example which stands against the background of many different governments facing increasing scrutiny from their young citizens

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the necessity of support for the Iranian protesters

ukraine

How war affected young Ukrainians - and what you can do about it?

I know that our stories might seem bizarre, scary, and unrelatable. But everyone can try to understand and relate. And everyone can help – even other young people, and teenagers from around the globe. Why? To support those in need

Maria Rybak shows how the war has influenced lives of young Ukrainians and how powerful world-wide support is

opinion

Volunteering at KL Plaszow Museum gave me a chance to fight the Nazi dehumanisation

To many, the concentration camp in Plaszow remains an unknown piece of history. A mere nine-person team at the KL Plaszow Museum and Memorial Site are working to change that. While I had the privilege of being the museum’s first volunteer, the KL Plaszow team hopes to recruit more as they continue working towards their opening in 2025

17 year-old Jonathan Wong on the meaning of voluntary work

economics

Zambia’s efforts to prevent famine and poverty with organic farming

Those at the Kasisi Agricultural Training Centre (KATC) recognised the long list of problems arising from chemical farming, so the organisation changed to organic farming in the mid-1980s to promote a healthier, more sustainable way of living. The main focus of KATC’s work is to train farmers and government agents in the basics of organic farming.

17 year-old Maksymilian Sinczak on the efforts to promote sustainable agriculture in Zambia

culture

The Witcher - a feminist manifesto or a misogynistic tale?

Sapkowski’s saga is not only a fantasy tale – it is also a social commentary. That’s why the TV adaptation has brought into the limelight various types of discrimination, prejudice, and hate-rooted violence

Aleksandra Lasek inquires into the success of Yennefer of Vengerberg as a feminist role model

ukraine

How jokes on TikTok help Ukrainians

Even during the war, people of different ages can still have a sense of humour and make jokes – which is an essential part of Ukrainian culture

Maria Chernova discusses how jokes on TikTok are helping her and other Ukrainians during the war

Herbal Insurgency: Wielding Knowledge to Heal and Harm Under Southern Enslavement

Through their knowledge of healing and harming, enslaved people were able to create small but vital spaces of healing and alternative power within the totalizing structures of Southern enslavement laws

William Derek Pacini examines the history of herbal expertise as a form of resistance and a means to freedom

Art of humanity. Why Lithuanian Jews took part in the fight against apartheid in South Africa

Once kindness becomes prevalent, it appears to be spreading. Human relations develop as we experience the inevitability of life – whether it is peace or war, core human values remain the same. A formation of a crystal – I think of an artwork I saw in Kaunas, depicting the bonding of ions and atoms which make the crystal grow – is parallel to how human relations develop.

17 year-old Sophie Abromaviciute on the lesson from an art festival in Kaunas, Lithuania

opinion

The Cupping Room

With the beans right in front of me, I could almost taste the coffee. The sweet and the tangy, the heavy notes and light texture barraging my nose. Tamie described to us the small yet complicated process of coffee roasting

16 year-old Christian Yeung takes a first step into the world of coffee culture, attending a roasting session at The Cupping Room

politics

Another Generation of War in Armenia. Living Everyday to the Fullest

In my village, we can hear any movements in the Azerbaijani military position. Such a close presence of the adversary army has negatively affected the mental state of the villagers, especially the young

Syuzanna Gyumshudyan examines the mental health of her peers two years after the bloody war over Nagorno Karabakh

culture

INO’s Tosca: the aesthetics of agency

Tosca offers a compelling evaluation of the complexities of female agency. She is an immensely complicated character—both pious and charitable, but also jealous, impetuous, passionate, and artistic

16 year-old Sophie Elliott analyses the Irish National Opera’s performance of Tosca with the backdrop of its political roots

A Plague Constant: Disease and Conspiracy in the Early Modern Period and Today

Today, as during the Great Plague of London, some of those holding office have put forward questionable remedies said to be more effective than mainstream treatments

Zachary Górka considers the similarities in public reaction and conspiracy between COVID-19 and the Great Plague of London, almost 400 years apart

ukraine

‘An eye-opening experience’. Diary of a volunteer helping refugees at the Polish-Ukrainian border

When I arrived in Przemysl, a quaint little town on the Polish-Ukrainian border, I did not know what to expect. I wanted to provide help in any way I could, although I thought my lack of a shared language with the Ukrainians would largely limit my role

17 year-old Jonathan Wong about his time volunteering in Przemysl

ukraine

The voice of fashion stands in solidarity with Ukraine

As we say in Ukraine: “everything will be Ukraine!”. And if so, everything and everyone – including the fashion industry – must admit its political side

Maria Rybak describes how the fashion industry responded to the war in Ukraine

ukraine

Can we avoid ecological mistakes while rebuilding Ukrainian housing after the war?

One of the most pressing problems after the war will be housing. So the big question is: how can we reshape the way we think about housing architecture to make it work quickly and at the same time according to climate changes?

Maria Chernova analyses the best ecological solutions for rebuilding Ukrainian housing

politics

Trump and Johnson: the parallels between their populism and influence

Amongst all their similarities and differences, Trump and Johnson still command a large following. This following can become so loyal, that they are often given near God-like status and threaten to be above the law

Isaac Kadas compares the former leaders current grip to power

ukraine

Norman Davies: In 1919, Soviet invasion bolstered Polish national identity. Now it happens in Ukraine

“In 1920, nobody, no experts, no generals gave Poland a chance. In February, no experts gave Ukrainians much of a chance. The Ukrainians captured Russian tanks where the men were dressed in parade uniforms”

An interview by 18 year-old Jeremi Kulczyk-Lubomirski and 16 year-old Maciej Cebula

culture

Bat girls for life? — Nothing about Batgirl said ‘cancel worthy’

Movies are not viewed as a piece of art anymore, they are investment assets. If something doesn’t work out they can simply be dumped

16 year-old Sofia Radysh reports on what Batgirl’s cancellation could mean for the film industry

science

‘Transforming healthcare’ - How AI is helping save lives

AI is able to not only speed up the process of diagnoses, but also procure the healthcare system with higher quality and more precise results

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova interviews the AI specialists behind comprehensive stroke imaging solution

climate crisis

Oxford suffers from extreme heatwave

“It’s not fake. The pond just evaporated. It’s a scene of devastation. The water levels in reservoirs are decreasing, but this [pond] people can actually see”

16 year-old Sofia Radysh inquires into Oxonian drought amid the amber heatwave warning

politics

Explainer: How does the Tory leadership election work?

Following the UK prime minister Boris Johnson’s resignation, the conservative party is in the process of electing its newest leader

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse outlines the Conservative election race in the UK

sports

United shock, Jesus to flourish under Arteta

Anticipation for the Premier League has now kicked off, with devoted fans eager to find out how their team will do this season

16 year-old Timur Boranbayev gives his predictions for the upcoming Premiership season

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culture

Ersatz Austen of cheap laughs and romance. Persuasion review

The greatest failing of Netflix’s film is that it neither commits to being a faithful adaptation of Austen’s regency, nor a modern rendering loosely based on original content

16 year-old Sophie Elliott reviews streaming giant's take on Austen’s classic novel

opinion

Are young people the biggest losers of the UK Conservative race?

Truss believes in spending today and paying it back later. From our young perspective, this benefits the Boomer Generation who will have lower income tax and soon go into retirement, whilst the working population of Millennials and Gen Z will have to pay the price

19 year-old Isaac Kadas explains how the Tory leadership race harms the future of those young today

sports

Canada takes gold in beach volleyball at the Commonwealth Games

“This holds a lot of weight because it has been four years since our last one and a lot can change – a lot of teams have improved,” said Humana-Paredes following the match

Grace Whitehouse reports on the women’s gold and bronze medal matches at the Birmingham final

opinion

Women’s Euro 2022, a success and an inspiration to the female youth

It is very refreshing to see how female sport is gaining more recognition and the respect it deserves. Women’s football is the fastest growing sport in the UK, and it will be interesting to see how female athletes and sport will develop over the next decade

Timur and Sofiya report on public opinions towards Lionesses’ win in the final

opinion

I doubt that Liz Truss will make girls’ lives better. Here’s why

If elected she has the capabilities to make significant headway in the progression of women’s rights, however based on her history of ineffectual action, it is unlikely for her to make tangible change within the UK

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse considers how Women’s rights in Britain will be harmed under Liz Truss leadership

opinion

Feminism after the girlboss: anxiety of the bimbo

Bimboism claims to be a leftist-adjacent, anti-capitalist, pro-sex work, pro-LGBTQ feminist movement which attracts significant controversy on TikTok

Sophie Elliott explains ‘bimbo Tok’ in the context of modern feminism

opinion

Cost of a trendy pup; the flat-faced issue explained

Humanity has been playing god and creating new breeds for a long time now, and the moment to take responsibility has arrived

16 year-old Sofia Radysh investigates the problems of Brachycephalic dogs

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culture

A mirror to Britain’s homophobia. Joe Lycett: More, More, More! review

While this show’s comedy is structured to identify and poke fun at British conservative society, it is done so in a cheerful and carefree way which prevents the jokes from being destructive in any way

17 year-old Grace Whitehouse reviews Joe Lycett’s touring show

culture

Your first lesson in Swahili

My first language is Swahili – and today I will share with you some basic words of this language.

14 year-old Lydia Gaspar introduces her native language

ukraine

War in Ukraine from the inside

My life, just like the life of other Ukrainians, has been divided into “before” and “after”. Before the 24th of February, I couldn’t believe that in the twenty-first century people would be capable of starting an actual war

16 year-old Diana Kuksova reveals how it is to live as a teenager during war

opinion

It is teenage girls who will be affected the most by abortion bans in the US

The Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case, which removed the right for abortion in the US was done by a group which is 80 percent male, 80 percent white and 100 percent in their 50s or older. The societal group which is going to be affected by the change, is the complete opposite.

16 year-old Sofiya Suleimenova on the implications of overturning Roe vs Wade

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culture

Invest in good mathematicians. Weapons of Math Destruction review

Ill-conceived algorithms are strengthening injustice, inequality and prejudice across law enforcement, education, labour, banking and housing.

Natasha Banga reviews Cathy O’Neil’s book

politics

Medicare for All: a debate

Seeing a million citizens die due to the COVID-19 pandemic, along with an economic crash and rising unemployment, just highlights the importance of the Medicare for All debate. Could this program transform our healthcare system for the better – or would it further harm our economy?

Dylan Yip lays out opposing stances on the Medicare for All debate in the United States.

Rating:

culture

A thought-provoking experience. For better or worse. How to Blow Up a Pipeline review

In his 2020 book a leading Swedish climate activist since the 1990s condemns the nonviolent methods mobilised in the climate movement by claiming they only promote passivity—instead, offering us a historical argument, Malm persuasively argues for a more aggressive and confrontational approach.

Sophie Elliott reviews Andreas Malm’s How to Blow Up a Pipeline

society

‘Minimum inclusion gives huge joy’, says Sylwia, mother to a 14-year-old with autism

It is impossible to predict Julia’s future but the outlook is grim. The state does not support centers that educate neurodivergent young adults as almost all types of support for adults with disabilities are scrapped by austerity measures.

Eva Smolokovskaya inquires into Poland’s non-existent system to include people with disabilities within society

ukraine

Farming on the battlefield. The reality behind Ukraine’s efforts to put food on our tables

Undoubtedly, the world hunger problem will be further exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. With bombs landing in fields, farmers joining the military, fuel, seed, and fertilizer shortages, alongside the blocking of ports in the Black Sea by Russian fleets and mines, UNICEF expects the number of hungry children to double as a result of Putin’s war.

Sophie Abromaviciute on how the Russian aggression against Ukraine will result in global famine

politics

Orbán’s comfortable win depicts how Hungary went further East than anyone in the West hoped

Had Orbán lost, there would have been global ramifications – but the same could be said after his victory. Despite recent defeats and being on the back foot, global populism is still alive and has a proven stronghold in Hungary, where one of its principal flagbearers is entrenched. Orbán’s victory shows that if run effectively enough, autocratic governments are very difficult to be unseated.

Isaac Kadas on Hungary’s eastbound journey

politics

There is a global angle to the election in Hungary

Hungary is a nation less than 10 million strong, yet today’s election could unlock the global battle against nationalist populism.

Isaac Kadas explains the battle for populists' stronghold

ukraine

In Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I cannot help but see my two sister-nations at war

In Kazakhstan, like in any other former Soviet republic, there is a strong feeling that the Ukrainian struggle against Russia is going to define our fate as well, no matter which way it goes

Ilya Kan on the ripples Putin’s war sent across the former Soviet Union

ukraine

How war in Ukraine has crept into young Londoners’ minds

We, the youth, are rapidly developing the knowledge, understanding, and vocabulary that makes us capable of talking about the war in Ukraine.

Natasha Banga about the knowledge many hoped never to need

ukraine

Anti- or pro-Western, Hungarians look at Ukraine through the lens of their troubled history

If it would be at all imaginable for Moscow to have an ally for its plans to redraw borders in Central Europe, Viktor Orbán would be the person to probe – to the horror of a strong pro-Western minority and the majority of Hungary’s youth.

Isaac Kadas explains how century-old Trianon treaty shapes Budapest’s relationship with Moscow

society

School Survey: 47% of students follow Russia’s invasion on Ukraine through social media

Without a strong foundation on the historical context of the invasion, many younger individuals may be at a higher risk of being influenced into holding certain opinions. This is further exacerbated by acquiring the majority of their information through social media, which is littered with difficult to avoid misinformation.

Daria Badger and Noor Bejjani research into how young people source information

economics

Not metaverse, but Apple’s privacy policy change drove Facebook’s devaluation

On February 3rd, Facebook’s stock price at NASDAQ declined by 26%. Over the last 6 months in total, it has amounted to a 46% price drop. Essentially, almost half of Facebook’s value has been erased within weeks. But why?

Ilya Kan explains the paradox behind Facebook’s plummeting stocks

ukraine

"We don’t want this war". The invasion of Ukraine is Putin’s, not Russians’ doing

In the midst of this conflict, the international community must remain aware of the vital distinction between Russians, and those in power in Russia. In the context of the war, the two have little to nothing in common.

Mary Stabinska about the consequences of power unchecked

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culture

Entertaining and engaging, yet with a moral dilemma. The Cheese and the Worms review

You may rightfully be thinking, “Cheese? Worms? Millers? Sixteenth-century? Really?” I also have little interest in the Fruili region of Italy, especially in the 1500s – yet this book had me hooked from the very first page.

Marsi Hadijeva revisits Carlo Ginzburg’s 1976 classic

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culture

Exceptional writing, but stories are hit or miss. On A Registry of My Passage Upon the Earth

Two years since the publication of his last book, The Winter Soldier, psychiatrist Daniel Mason returns with his latest collection of human survival stories.

Noemi Elliott reviews a collection of short stories

ukraine

Six days ago, the war started. Ukraine and Russia, the two of my homelands

Ми більше не боїмося Хоча страшно Але не до страху…

Нам уже не страшно Хотя страшно Но не до страха…

We’re not scared Although we are just cannot afford to…

Eva Smolokovskaya on anger and powerlessness

politics

Colston Four trial and the blunder of Police and Crime Bill reflect a divide in Britain

The ideological profile of the current British government – labelled as Johnsonism, in resemblance to Trumpism – embodies the belief that protest is something undesirable

Isaac Kadas examines why Johnsonism is so afraid of “noisy” protests

science

With Mosquirix approved by WHO, hopes are high for a breakthrough in fight against Malaria

Despite its efficacy at just below 46%, Masquirix may prevent 4.3 million cases of malaria and 22,000 deaths in children younger than five annually

Noor Bejjani explains the difficulties and rewards behind the new vaccine against malaria

Do not dream, because the second the dream ends...

I saw the big, white letters on the top of my phone screen, right next to the Outlook logo. “Application Outcome” I read and took a deep breath in.It’s here, my Cambridge decision.

Mary Stabińska on what it feels like to open a very important letter

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culture

Spot-on image of how Gen Z tends to cope by taking everything as a joke. Don’t look up review

The planet-killing comet is quite obviously today’s global warming climate crisis. The scientific reasoning is there, the facts are there, the evidence is there – and yet, many still refuse to believe in this pressing issue.

Sofiya Suleimenova reviews Adam McKay’s political satire

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culture

A delightful read for any Austen fan. Jane Austen, Early and Late review

The degree of insight makes a joy solely reserved for Austen fans. Others would likely find the parallels between Northanger Abbey and Persuasion tiresome – although I must confess I never knew that Northanger Abbey contains 24 instances of “persuasion,” only eight fewer than the 32 in Persuasion!

Noemi Elliott reviews Freya Johnston’s book

culture

‘Pay me the respect due’. Sidney Poitier as a symbol of perseverance

Barack Obama, who awarded Poiter the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, wrote: “Through his groundbreaking roles and singular talent, Sidney Poitier epitomised dignity and grace, revealing the power of movies to bring us closer together. He also opened doors for a generation of actors.”

Sofiya Suleimenova reflects on ethics lessons from the late American movie giant

society

Religious beliefs are not a sufficient reason to seek vaccine exemption

82% of American Catholics have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine while only 57% of Evangelical Protestants did the same.

Marsi Hadjieva explains twisted relations between religion and jabs

Darkness, a poem Wisława Szymborska did not write

A pastiche is a work of art that aims to imitate the style of another work or artist. It is a device regularly used in many different mediums, including literature, music, and visual art. For example, Shakespeare’s famous balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet has been a theme for endless pastiches – it was also arguably the inspiration for the happy ending scene in Pretty Woman.

Daria Badger interviews Polish pastiche poetry writer Grzegorz Uzdański - and translates one of his works to English

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culture

Every bit as real that the reader hopes the story were pure fiction. The Fortune Men review

Nearing the 70th anniversary of the court murder commited in Wales, we realize that not much has changed these past decades.

Noemi Elliott reviews Nadifa Mohamed’s novel

politics

With the notion of progress gone, gender equality is slowly dying in Poland

Since 2015, the ruling Law and Justice party has rejected the notion of progress which had characterised the Second Republic of Poland – despite the fact that it is the same Second Republic that the same Law and Justice politicians consider to be the embodiment of ideal Polish society.

Aleksandra Lasek on Poland's nationalists' lack of political consistency

society

Trailblazer. How Yip Pin Xiu’s swimming career broke the silence on disability in Singapore

Things are changing, and they are changing fast. Arguably, the rise of Singaporean Paralympic champions has played the most imperative role in catalysing the change of societal attitudes towards people with disabilities. Yip Pin Xiu stands out of this group – in order to recognise her and her feats, Singapore had to finally look in the mirror.

Jinn Ong portraits Singapore's most decorated Paralympian

economics

Fallout of the pandemic is the first time Gen Z experiences inflation

Boiled down to its essence, inflation is a process of rising prices – or, to be more precise, the devaluation of money. If inflation is at 5% (5.1% is the current level of inflation in the United Kingdom) prices are 5% higher than a year ago – so, on average, the same thing that used to cost £100 is now priced at about £105

Natasha Banga explains the economic phenomenon Gen Z has not yet had the chance to experience - and what The Old Lady of Threadneedle Street has to do with it.

society

Victims of Fukushima still pay for failures of Japan’s government

Residents of Fukushima were left jobless, homeless and hopeless after most were unable to find work. Many women were unable to wed or have children since they were regarded as ‘tainted’, and relocated children were being shunned by peers at school.

Jinn Ong pictures a decade of injustice after the preventable meltdown at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.

human rights

'Even if refugees are lured by Belarus, it is not a reason for Poland to violate international law'

“From the legal point of view, the problem is that the practice of pushbacks is illegal. When the person appears on the Polish territory and applies for asylum, then the asylum application should be processed and the person should have the right to stay in Poland until the final decision is reached.”

Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights’ lawyer Jacek Bialas in conversation with Levon Nurijanyan explains why Poland's push-backs of migrants are illegal

opinion

The @feminist Instagram account took femvertising to the next level

When I look for activism content, I don’t wish to be discreetly tricked into buying a t-shirt, no matter how sustainable it is or what share of the profit goes to good causes.

Eva Smolokovskaya questions the ethics of the @feminist, a social media account with 6.4 million followers

sports

How a Chinese boy Who’d Never Heard of Football Fell in Love with the Sport

During Wolcott’s first possession, we completely locked them up. I was so focused that all of a sudden it was like I knew how to play football. I was breaking ankles the whole first half, and I didn’t drop a single ball.

Dylan Yip reflects on the oddly shaped ball which put the team together at Milton Academy

science

It was research on light that enabled us to comprehend that time is elastic

Thanks to Albert Einstein, time and space began to be considered non-invariables – but to prove his theory, the famous scientist needed something that moved really fast.

Aleksy Chwedczuk explains how the whole idea of inevitability took a sudden turn.

The Sublime

The mass of sharp edges and misty summits / stands cold, gazing at me / I can see it frown …

A poem by Mary Stabinska

climate crisis

The scared sitters, a new formation in the environmental struggle

A fiery-haired girl with porcelain skin sits in the middle of a busy street, looking at something beyond the border of the picture.

Mary Stabinska studies the politics and ethics of desperation.

science

What ‘is’ dark energy and matter, the 95 percent of the Universe we know nothing about?

In 1929, when Edwin Hubble proved that the universe is expanding, an important question arose: o what will the Apocalypse look like then?

Aleksy Chwedczuk on the opening chapter of the neWhat ‘is’ dark energy and matter, the 95 percent of the Universe we know nothing about?xt great discovery in the history of Physics.

climate crisis

Caroline Hickman: Anxiety and anger are psychologically healthy responses to climate crisis

The UK-based philosopher, psychotherapist and researcher has made it her mission to help people cope with denial, depression, anger and powerlessness which so many face because of the climate crisis.

She sat with Eva Smolokovskaya to explain what she has learned over the last two decades.

society

At Ritsona Camp it has been three years since child refugee Leila was last inside a classroom

There is no reason for the refugee children in Europe to be denied an effective and equal education.

Polina Aksenenko and Parwana Amiri about the consequences of spending on walls instead of buses at Ritsona Camp in Greece.

science

What would it mean if there was life on Venus?

It only makes sense for some life to exist somewhere out there. A recent research paper has shifted the spotlight to our sister planet.

Aleksy Chwedczuk reports on what may be hidden in the atmosphere of Venus.

culture

Nature and Privation in Three Romani Poets

The generation born after the war was raised amidst the turmoil of social transformation, evolving governmental edicts, and the challenges of dwelling among often unwelcoming ethnic Hungarians. The poetry of these postwar Roma poets reflects these challenges.

Noemi Elliot on Roma poets and their artistic sensibilities

Quartz Lamps and Quarantines

The elevator stopped on the third floor, and the nurse led me out into the dark hallway. After a couple of turns we approached a glass door marked with red letters reading “Quarantine Zone!” The letters were reversed. I was inside of the hospital now – I was what the bold red letters warned outsiders about. The nurse stopped and turned to face me.

Ilya Kan on experience of quarantine.

opinion

For equality’s sake, Paralympics and Olympics should be united

Although it is hard to imagine, there was also a time when women were not included in the Olympics – yet, in 2021 we do not hold separate games for male and female athletes.

Jinn Ong argues for one Games for all athletes

politics

What I Heard About Covid-19

I heard Trump’s term in office had coincided with more than 25 million confirmed coronavirus cases, over 400,000 of which resulted in fatalities.

Daria Badger on fading memories

science

COVID-19 boosted research in mRNA vaccines. This technology may be a game-changer

With enough funding and brainpower, MRNA technology is capable of shortening the amount of time needed for vaccine development and manufacturing so significantly that it may be close to real-time vaccination.

Noor Bejjani explores the implications of the coronavirus-related leap in vaccination science

politics

Populism 2.0. Why Johnson’s populism survived COVID-19 while Trump’s failed

The pandemic revealed differences between dishevelled, right-wing politicians who were previously very difficult to be distinguished.

Levon Nurijanyan analyses a new strain of populism

society

Paralympic medalist Theresa Goh: ‘I was thinking: do I have to quit swimming and find a job?’

“I have seen a lot of change. Previously, newspapers used to place athletes with disabilities in the home section, now they are actually placing us in the sports section.”

Jinn Ong sits with Singaporean Paralympic swimmer Theresa Goh to discuss inclusivity and equality

Nobody knows how to offend better than the world

Who allowed the consequential “tik-tok” of the futile wrist-watch, which by now engraved itself into your wooden side table?

Mary Stabińska on the toll of isolation

society

Masks, Russia’s silent rebellion

It was when I landed in Moscow, Russia, when I very suddenly realised that humanity is not so united in its fight against the coronavirus. Not at all.

Eva Smolokovskaya on pictures she took in the Russian capital

‘Sorry sir, my connection is bad’

The texts in the artwork are actual messages I have sent or received this past year. Using them made me acknowledge the new vocabulary we now use on the daily basis and the frequently used phrases excusing our tardiness to online classes or the lack of finished homework, like “Sorry Sir, my connection is bad.”

Artist's take on the months of the pandemic from Elizabeth Bronstein

Halfway to Neverland

All children, except one, grow up. I always thought I would be the one to remain within the confines of innocence, escaping the inevitability of adulthood. Yet, on the brink of eighteen, I count the days separating me from the rest of my life.

Noemi Elliott on encountering the thought of ageing

society

Tornado of history. How Koreans became the fourth Zhuz of Kazakhstan

Only much later would they find out that Stalin, afraid of potential Japanese spies living in the USSR, wanted to cleanse Russia of any threats. His fear somehow ended up encompassing Koreans as well, so 124 train wagons were arranged to transport over 170,000 people to Central Asia. Based on today’s estimates, around 50,000 never made it off the trains.

Ilya Kan on the history of his family - and all Kazakhstan's Koreans - in the 20th century

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