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Political survivor Le Pen makes her boldest gamble yet for France's presidency
In launching her fourth bid for the French presidency, just hours after judges cleared her to run, Marine Le Pen portrayed herself as a fighter who had defied the odds to overcome a months-long legal battle that threatened to end her political ambitions.
Ebola deaths in Congo top 500 as health workers threaten to strike
Frontline workers have threatened to strike over unpaid benefits and poor working conditions.
A New Way to Uncover How Science Is Under Attack
Science is being threatened at a pace and scale we’ve never seen before in the federal government. It’s nearly overwhelming—but we’ve built a new system to help us monitor and explain what’s happening, looking both incident by incident and at the larger pattern. Last week, the Union of Concerned
David P. O'Brien
About five years ago, David P. O'Brien had a comfortable position at Marsh & McLennan Cos., where he held the top post at the financial giant's Louisville, Ky., office. Despite the lofty rank, Mr. O'Brien found himself longing to be at a smaller company that had to work a little harder to land business. That desire led him away from Kentucky five years ago and to Cleveland, where he serves as executive vice president at business insurance agency Oswald Cos. "I left Marsh before it was en vogue," he said, referring to layoffs and defections at Marsh over the course of this year that followed accusations of bid rigging at the big firm. Above all, Mr. O'Brien, 38, wanted to work at a company that relied on its inventiveness, rather than its name, for business. He said he has found that at Oswald. "It causes you to be more creative, to be more resourceful," Mr. O'Brien said. For instance, an Oswald client seeking to do business internationally might be directed to the network of offices abroad run by competitors such as Marsh and Aon Risk Services Inc. "We're going to use whatever access into the market that makes the most sense for our clients," he said. Of course, using such a strategy can be dangerous for Oswald if its client decides to further a business relationship with one of the firms Oswald recommended. "That's the obvious question and why it's nontraditional," he said. "I think if we're good, and if we're bringing value to the client, then there's no risk. I'm not threatened by it." Imaginative business solutions of that type made his career move to Oswald from Marsh worthwhile. "It's very much a challenge," he said. "It helps you keep your edge. I'm all for the competition." John Jacunski, currently vice president and corporate controller at York, Pa., paper company PH Gladfelter Co., met Mr. O'Brien four years ago when Mr. Jacunski was at WCI Steel Inc. in Warren. So impressed was he with Mr. O'Brien's work for WCI that Mr. Jacunski has retained the Oswald executive at PH Gladfelter. "He's a young guy for the position he has, but he's done a great job for us," Mr. Jacunski said. Among his roles at Oswald, Mr. O'Brien leads the firm's client retention efforts and also serves as director of its property and casualty group. "You don't have the same human resources," he said of the job jump to Oswald. "You don't have, obviously, the safety net a big company has." But sometimes, it can be difficult to ascertain individual contributions when working at a big company. "I wanted to be able to see the end results of my work and my efforts," Mr. O'Brien said.
Trump defends his Iran deal, criticizes longtime ally Israel as G-7 ends
In a sprawling news conference at the G-7 summit in France, the president touted the economic benefits of the ceasefire and threatened force if it fails.
Alaska election official threatens to disqualify challenger Dan J. Sullivan in race against Sen. Dan Sullivan
A top Alaska elections official has threatened to disqualify from the state’s August primary a US Senate candidate who shares the same name and party affiliation as incumbent Republican Dan Sullivan.
Alaskans Reel From the Loss of National Science Foundation Ocean-Monitoring Instruments
In the nation’s fastest-warming state with a multi-billion-dollar fishing industry and storm-threatened coastal communities, scientists say the federal government’s decommission of a deepwater sensor system is ill-timed and wrong-headed.
The Latest: Senate passes $70B immigration enforcement bill
The Senate has passed legislation to fund President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement agencies after weeks of delays and fierce backlash to an unrelated $1.776 billion settlement fund that threatened to derail the bill
Illinois hospitals urge Pritzker to quickly sign bill before Eli Lilly cuts off drug discounts
Illinois’ hospital association contends the move by Eli, which has also been threatened by the other large, global GLP-1 manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, is simply an unnecessary roadblock.
Polis protects system rigged against workers
By Jeremy Ross Shame on Gov. Jared Polis. He used his veto pen again to indulge the billionaire corporate elite by denying the freedom of workers to join together and form a union without being threatened, fired or blocked by a second election. For two years in a row, the Worker Protection Act passed out […]
Valve Reportedly Threatened to Delist Rainbow Six Siege on Steam After Ubisoft Offered Cheaper Alternative
Valve has allegedly gone to great lengths to maintain Steam's position as a marketplace titan on PC, including one example that reportedly saw it threaten to retaliate against Ubisoft by delisting Rainbow Six Siege.
Trump’s second term risks stalling on multiple fronts
President Donald Trump is increasingly threatened by a self-made problem.
Data center critic's arrest draws attention to 387-acre site
An Illinois man was arrested after police said he threatened a local official. The resident said he was protesting against data center development.
‘It’s really scary’: Trump administration green card messaging prompts confusion and anxiety
A Trump administration directive announced last week threatened to require most applicants for permanent residency to wait out the process in their home country.
A Deranged MAGA Talking Point Threatened to Take Over Memorial Day
Under the new Republican orthodoxy on the events of January 6, online tributes to insurrectionists crowded in on tributes to veterans of Guadalcanal and Omaha Beach.
The future of the American healthcare workforce
The U-S is facing a steep healthcare worker shortage. A 2025 federal analysis projected that by 2038, 30 out of 35 physician specialties will be hurting for practitioners, with over 140,000 roles left unfilled. And for nurses, that shortage is projected to be over 108,000. And last week, 24 states plus the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit against the Department of Education over new federal student loan limits on graduate degrees. Those caps apply to programs that could graduate workers into these threatened health care fields. But Education Secretary Linda McMahon say these worries are overblown and that these new rules aim to force colleges to lower tuition rates. So, what do these changes really mean for the future of our healthcare workforce in the U.S.?
Dodgers had scoring chances vs. Brewers
Being down 4-0 after the first inning put a damper in the series opener on Friday night in Milwaukee, but the Dodgers offense at least nominally threatened for most of their 5-1 loss to the Brewers. The Dodgers batted 22 times with at least somebody on base on Friday, compared to 15 plate appearances with […]
Roger Stone allegedly threatened political retribution against Cuomo brothers, others in text messages
Now that Roger Stone, the convicted and pardoned political operative and Trump ally, has reemerged under the president’s second term, a former Stone employee is stepping forward to accuse Stone of …
Police: Throop man threatened to kill Sen. Flynn, business owner on social media
A 35-year-old Throop man posted messages on social media threatening to kill State Sen. Marty Flynn and local business owner Steve Masterson, police said.
Luling mass shooting threat at local business: Man taken into custody
The Luling Police Department says a man threatened his wife and claimed he might carry out a mass shooting on May 15.
Analysis: Brighton face nervy final day
Brighton travelled to Leeds United knowing a win would secure European football for only the second time in their 124-year history. Leeds - playing with freedom after securing another year of top-flight football - made their life extremely difficult in the first half. Veltman's shot was blocked by Jaka Bijol and a swerving effort from Gross that needed Darlow to save were the only times they threatened before Van Hecke spurned the gilt-edged chance to put them in front in the 44th minute.
St. Pete community rallies to help rebuild after fire destroys USF Marine Science Laboratory building
For some scientists at the University of South Florida College of Marine Science, the fire that tore through a marine sciences laboratory building earlier this month did more than damage a facility; it threatened a lifetime of research.
Exclusive: At Samsung, the global AI boom spurred a looming strike and deep divisions
A looming 18-day strike at South Korean chip giant Samsung that has triggered worries within the government, rattled foreign investors and threatened global supply chains rests on one crucial question: who should share in the spoils of the AI boom?
Pope Warns Main Threat Common to Religion and Science Is Denial of Objective Truth
Pope Leo XIV pointed out that both science and the Church clearly teach that caring for the planet is threatened by the irresponsible exploitation of both people and the natural world.
Pope warns main threat common to religion and science is denial of objective truth
Pope Leo XIV pointed out that both science and the Church clearly teach that caring for the planet is threatened by the irresponsible exploitation of both people and the natural world.
Scientists split gentoo penguins into four species, one totally new to science. Three of them are already threatened.
Biologists argue that gentoo penguins should be divided into four separate species, including a newly recognized “cryptic” species. The habitats of three of them are imperiled by climate change.
'The Bean' Sculptor Kapoor Blasts America's 'Politics Of Hate' And 'Warmongering'
Kapoor last year threatened to sue the Trump administration after a group of border patrol agents posed for a photo in front of his Chicago sculpture.
How A.I. Is Transforming China’s Entertainment Industry
A.I.-generated microdramas have taken off. Celebrities have threatened legal action against the use of their likeness, while actors say jobs have dried up.
German business sentiment falls in April to lowest level since 2020
German business morale fell more than expected in April, as the Iran war made companies more pessimistic and threatened the long-awaited recovery of Europe's biggest economy.
Warsh vows to keep monetary policy independent of politics
STORY: :: Fed chief nominee Warsh vows to keep monetary policy independent of politics:: Washington, D.C. / April 21, 2026:: Kevin Warsh, Federal Reserve chief nominee“Monetary policy independence is essential. Monetary policymakers must act in the nation's interest. Their decision is the product of rigor, deliberation and unclouded decision-making. And as Senator Warren said, I do not believe that independence of monetary policy is threatened when elected officials state their views on rates. Fed independence is up to the Fed." // :: Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Ranking Democrat on Senate Banking Committee“So, independence takes courage. Let's check out your independence and your courage. We'll start easy. Mr. Warsh, did Donald Trump lose the 2020 election?”WARSH: “Um, we try to keep politics, if I’m confirmed, out of the Federal Reserve.”WARREN: “I’m just asking you a factual question. I need to know. I need to measure your independence and your courage.”WARSH: “Senator, I believe that this body certified that election many years ago.”WARREN: “That’s not the question I’m asking. I’m asking did Donald Trump lose in 2020?”WARSH: “And I’m suggesting to you in 2020…”WARREN: “I’m suggesting you can’t answer that.”WARSH: “… the Fed had a huge inflation problem, and you certified the election…[crosstalk]… let’s keep the politics out of monetary policy.” //WARREN: "Just one little place where you disagree with Donald Trump.”WARSH: “Well, I do have a disagreement actually, Senator, with the president. I think even this morning, he said that he thought I was out of central casting. I think central casting, I'd look older, grayer, maybe show up here with a cigar of sorts.”WARREN: “Quite adorable. But, you know, we need a Fed chair who is independent. That's the only way we preserve the independence of the Federal Reserve. If you can't answer these questions, you don't have the courage and you don't have the independence.”In a confirmation hearing before the Senate Banking Committee that quickly hinted at major changes to come at a Warsh-led Fed, the 56-year-old lawyer and financier blamed the central bank for an inflation surge in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic that continues to hurt U.S. households.Warsh's hearing quickly turned contentious. Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren pressed Warsh on his independence and "courage", saying President Donald Trump had made clear Warsh would be his "sock puppet".
FIU experts in oceans, marine technology and sustainable policy
FIU has a team of conservation scientists, protecting some of the world’s most endangered and threatened species.
Kevin Warsh to say Fed independence not threatened by political pressure
Donald Trump’s pick for chair will tell powerful Senate committee that central bank must ‘stay in its lane’
After a year of turmoil, cancer researchers see promising signs for mRNA vaccines
The mRNA-based Covid vaccines helped blunt the impact of the pandemic but also sparked political backlash that has threatened to slow or derail dozens of potential cancer treatments. Now there are signs that the mRNA train is still on track.
Cardi B says near-canceled Atlanta show is her ‘last time’ at State Farm Arena
The rapper threatened not to perform and took jabs at Atlanta Police during the final night of her "Little Miss Drama Tour."
Muslim Southerners Face a Fresh Wave of Hateful Political Rhetoric
Some Muslim voters were once drawn to Republican positions on family values and individual liberty, but as Southern politicians stoke anti-Islamic sentiment, many feel threatened.
The extreme positions Trump proposes
President Donald Trump this month threatened to strike Iranian infrastructure in ways that might well be war crimes. It’s his latest extreme move that polls show his GOP base has embraced.
Apple App Store threatened to remove Grok over deepfakes: letter
In a letter to senators sent in January, Apple detailed how it responded to Grok’s ability to generate sexualized deepfakes.
DA wants Sam Altman arson suspect Daniel Moreno-Gama held without bail
Daniel Moreno-Gama allegedly threw a lit Molotov cocktail at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's home and threatened to burn down OpenAI's headquarters.
'Cherki has bought true freedom and creative magic'
Manchester City are finding their stride at the perfect time and it's the most daunting of warnings being issued simultaneously to those of an Arsenal persuasion. Mikel Arteta's side stumbled and Pep Guardiola's players pounced and at the heart of that deadly punch was Rayan Cherki, who grabbed the Chelsea game by the scruff of its neck to take all three points. Chelsea frustrated and on numerous occasions threatened to do their London rivals a favour in the first half on Sunday, but it was City who stood firm, albeit whilst not creating too much themselves.
Conservation groups call for 'science-based' approach to Alberta grizzly bear hunt proposal
Conservation groups say recent calls for the provincial government to legalize the hunting of threatened grizzly bears in Alberta aren't justified by science due to a lack of up-to-date population studies.
Grim new economic numbers highlight how Trump is losing leverage against Iran
The week began with President Donald Trump saber-rattling like we’ve never seen before. He threatened apparent war crimes and to end a “whole civilization” if Iran didn’t meet his demands.
Massachusetts business owner says he was threatened for not donating to police union
A Billerica, Massachusetts business owner said he was threatened because he wouldn't donate more money to a police union.
MAGA Is Winning Its War Against U.S. Science
Source: NBER With all the other terrible news right now, you may not have noticed that Donald Trump is in the process of killing American science. OK, that’s an exaggeration — but not that much of an exaggeration. The Trump administration’s latest budget proposal calls for a gigantic increase in military spending combined with severe cuts to social programs. But as the chart above shows, it also calls for debilitating reductions in research funding. Furthermore, Trump appointees have already been strangling science by sharply reducing the rate at which research grants are approved. Here, for example, is the number of new grants approved by the National Science Foundation: Source: Nature Large numbers of existing grants have also been frozen or terminated, especially in the study of infectious diseases. Add to this a sharp drop in visas issued to foreign students, who often play a direct role in research and who help support academic departments that do research: Put all of this together, and much U.S. scientific research is set to come to a screeching halt — not a few years from now, but over the course of the next year or two. This new assault on U.S. science is taking place at a time when the role of American science in the world has already been greatly eroded. The chart below, based on research recently reported by the National Bureau of Economic Research, measures national strength in science by the share of publications in highly ranked journals. In the 1990s the United States had more such publications than the rest of the world combined. Since then we’ve dropped into third place — well behind China and slightly below the European Union. And this was before the Trump administration’s attack on science had time to take its full effect. Source Some erosion in U.S. scientific preeminence was inevitable given China’s growing sophistication and wealth. But we’ve also fallen behind Europe, even though everyone says that Europe is lagging economically and technologically. Claims about Europe’s underperformance are, in fact, dubious if one looks hard at the data. But it’s still striking to see America lagging. What’s going on? There are presumably multiple factors behind America’s scientific lag. But even before Trump II the growing hostility of the U.S. right to science surely had some negative effect. And since the rise of MAGA G.O.P. attitudes toward science in general have become overwhelmingly hostile. This is true even for the Republican rank and file: And while I haven’t been able to find good survey data, it’s obvious that the anti-science turn has been even more pronounced — and began earlier — among the Republican political elite. Chris Mooney published The Republican War on Science in 2005, and even then was describing a longstanding trend. Why have Republicans turned so anti-science? Part of the answer is that they believe that scientists don’t support them. And they’re right! A study of who scientists give money to shows that only a small percentage gave money to Republicans even 20 years ago, and that almost none of them donate to Republicans now: Social scientists have always been strongly pro-Democratic, while there used to be a significant number of physical, “hard” scientists supporting the GOP. But these days physicists are almost as uniformly Democratic, or at least non-Republican, as sociologists. Why are there almost no Republican scientists? It’s not a mystery. GOP political orthodoxy includes positions that are at odds with the scientific consensus on multiple issues, ranging from the validity of the theory of evolution, to the reality of climate change, to the efficacy and safety of vaccines. In each case the scientific consensus is solidly grounded in evidence. But even before the rise of MAGA the U.S. right was increasingly hostile to evidence-based policymaking — especially, of course, where the evidence is unfavorable to fossil fuel interests or quack medicine, both financial mainstays of right-wing politics. So scientists don’t support Republicans, and the feeling is mutual. Today’s Republican Party doesn’t like science or scientists. It doesn’t like having its preconceived views challenged by appeals to evidence. It knows that very few scientists are on its side electorally. In general, it sees scientific research as a threat to its grasp on political power. Add in MAGA’s combination of rabid anti-intellectualism and allergy to any hint of criticism, and one has the makings of a drastic anti-science turn in policy. “Ignorance is strength” might was well be an official MAGA motto. And as I said, we aren’t talking about something that will happen over the course of multiple years: The U.S. scientific enterprise is threatened with severe damage, even collapse, over just the next year. There are many reasons to find this prospect horrifying: Think of all the beneficial advances, affecting almost every part of life, that won’t happen because U.S. science — still crucial to the world — has been eviscerated. But think, also, of America’s international standing. Can a nation that has forfeited its role as a leader, or even a contender, in global science, still be a Great Power? No. MUSICAL CODA
Earthquake science unites threatened scholar with Cornell researchers
A team of geophysicists from Cornell, Cameroon and South Africa is using machine learning tools to unearth new information from earthquake data collected by Cornell 15 years ago – providing a lifeline for a scholar whose career was upended by conflict.
Trump Says Iran Cease-Fire Proposal Is ‘Not Good Enough’ as Deadline Approaches
President Trump has threatened to launch a massive attack targeting bridges, power plants and other civilian facilities by Tuesday evening.
With HCMC’s survival threatened, staff and leaders call for state action
Hospital employees and county leaders warn of statewide 'catastrophe' if lawmakers don’t act to direct more funds to the safety-net hospital.
Nature Conservancy award supports URI research on salt marsh health
KINGSTON, R.I. – April 6, 2026 – Rhode Island’s salt marshes protect coastlines and provide critical habitat, but many are increasingly threatened by sea level rise and other environmental pressures. Madison Geraci, a Ph.D. student in evolution and marine biology at the University of Rhode Island, is studying organisms hidden within marsh sediments to better […]
“Threatened retaliation on first contact”: As I dig into a former Halo art director’s claims, I’m left questioning what else Microsoft didn’t want anyone to see.
New allegations from a former Halo Studios developer outline claims of misconduct and organisational issues, prompting questions around accountability and internal investigations at Microsoft.
Bayer Leverkusen vs Wolfsburg: Team news and predicted line-up
Relegation-threatened Wolfsburg travel to the BayArena to face top-four candidates Bayer Leverkusen. Leverkusen sit comfortably in sixth place, having an eight-point gap between them and seventh-plac...
Families reeling from Baystate Health decision to end gender care for youth
Baystate Health, the largest health center in western Massachusetts, announced in February it would stop gender-affirming treatment for children, offering only counseling. This came after the Trump administration threatened to strip Medicaid and Medicare funding from any hospital providing the care to kids.
Iran threatens US-owned companies, including Meta and JP Morgan
Iran's Revolutionary Guard on Tuesday threatened US-owned companies with a presence in the Middle East.
Serbia local elections marred by claims of violence
The student movement said some of their observers were threatened and in one incident sprayed with pepper spray
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Fallout from bad government in WA? There won’t be any
No heads will roll, no political careers are threatened, from the King County grants scandal. Politics is in a stage where having a government that works is an afterthought.
Boludo co-owners trade accusations in court while pizza business suffers
Jerad Rasmusson and chef Facundo DeFraia have filed lawsuits against each other; downtown restaurant threatened with eviction.
Trump’s new red line could set the Iran war on a fateful course
On Friday, President Donald Trump said he was considering “winding down” his war with Iran. But a day later, he threatened to “obliterate” the country’s power plants in an escalation that could further tip the conflict out of control.
Oil prices rise after Trump issues ultimatum and Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz indefinitely
Oil prices rose Sunday after President Donald Trump threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened by Monday evening.
Sarah Sanders flipped off, kicked out of restaurant that claims employees were 'uncomfortable'
Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders says she was asked to leave Little Rock restaurant after staff claimed her presence made employees feel threatened.
'The Adding Machine' review: Elmer Rice's play gets a sluggish revival
Elmer Rice's "The Adding Machine," an expressionist classic on automation and worker insecurity, speaks directly to an age in which livelihoods are threatened by AI innovation.
Trump: ‘I do believe I’ll [be having] the honor of taking Cuba’
With the Trump administration’s oil blockade cutting off fuel to Cuba, the country’s electrical grid collapsed on March 16, causing an island-wide blackout. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, threatened again to topple the country’s communist government.
Boards protected CEO bonuses as tariffs threatened business. Now, as Iran disrupts trade, CEOs may get more protection
An exclusive analysis of 50 companies found CEOs in the lowest-performing tier still collected 87% of their target bonuses last year—and boards may start adding more comp safety nets to protect from Iran economic impact.
UK not obliged to support every demand of ‘transactional’ US president, minister says
Donald Trump has threatened Nato allies over failure to send ships to protect strait of Hormuz, but Pat McFadden says UK relation with US remain strong
This small Minnesota town pulses with immigrant-run businesses. ICE has threatened their survival
Like the Twin Cities and other communities, Long Prairie took an economic hit during Operation Metro Surge and hasn’t yet recovered.
Boston World Cup games to go ahead after Kraft Sports agrees deal with town of Foxboro
Dispute over security costs of $7.8million had threatened the staging of games at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro
'Teen Mom 2' star Jenelle Evans' son checked into mental health facility: report
Evans' son Jace allegedly threatened to kill himself and his grandmother last month and officers responded to a "troubled teen disturbance."
'Teen Mom 2' star Jenelle Evans' son checked into mental health facility: report
Evans' son Jace allegedly threatened to kill himself and his grandmother last month and officers responded to a "troubled teen disturbance."
Watertown business owner speaks out about knife threat
“I’m no hero. I was just protecting the kids.” That’s what the owner of a Watertown dance studio is saying about being threatened with a knife near her business.
Iran's blockade of Strait of Hormuz sends oil prices soaring
Donald Trump says the Iran war may be over soon. But the US President also threatened to escalate attacks if Iran doesn't let tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. Around the world, consumer fuel prices have soared.
Homeless man allegedly threatened Watertown business owner with knife
A homeless man is accused of threatening a Watertown business owner with a knife.
About 250 years ago, the nation’s Founding Fathers took on one of the nation’s first invasive species
The invasive Hessian fly spurred suspicions of biological warfare, threatened the new nation’s economy and inspired the nation’s first citizen science projects.
Manchester City v Nottingham Forest: Key stats and talking points
Manchester City go in search of a seventh consecutive win in all competitions, hosting relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest. BBC Sport examines some of the key themes before Wednesday's match (19:30 GMT). Manchester City were without their top scorer for the visit to Leeds – the city where the Norwegian was born – but nonetheless recorded another important victory to keep the pressure on leaders Arsenal.
Newsom threatens California counties for failing to use his new mental health court
Gov. Gavin Newsom threatened to pull funding from counties that aren’t taking advantage of a new program intended to help people with severe mental illness.
CMS set to suspend enrollment in Elevance Health's Medicare Advantage plans
The Trump administration has threatened to sanction Elevance Health's Medicare Advantage plans if the insurer does not address concerns around compliance with requirements for submitting risk adjus | The Trump administration has threatened to sanction Elevance Health's Medicare Advantage plans if the insurer does not address compliance concerns regarding the submission of risk adjustment data.
Cook County public health grant threatened by federal funding cancellation
Grant funding for Cook County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) is at risk after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) canceled millions of dollars in public health investments for Minnesota. The Public Health Infrastructure Grant awarded Cook County more than $30,000. Statewide, about $38 million in public health funding was canceled, effective...
The Pentagon is demanding to use Claude AI as it pleases. Claude told me that's 'dangerous'
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has threatened Anthropic, the maker of Claude AI, that if it doesn't turn over full use of the powerful tool by Friday, the company will face severe repercussions.
Paramount ups bid for Warner Bros. as sale veers into politics
Over the weekend, President Trump threatened Netflix, telling the streamer to fire Susan Rice from its board or "pay the consequences."
Omaha bar owner files lawsuit over right to use ‘barbershop’ in business name
An Omaha bar owner has filed a First Amendment lawsuit against the Nebraska Board of Barber Examiners after the state threatened him with fines and possible criminal charges over his business name.
LeBron James on the knee soreness he experienced on Friday
A bout of knee soreness momentarily threatened to sideline LeBron James for Friday's game between the Lakers and Clippers.
Berlin Film Festival Tried to Focus on Movies. Politics Stole the Spotlight.
Reporters’ attempts to draw stars into debates about Gaza and other highly charged topics have threatened to overshadow the movies at the Berlin Film Festival.
Judge temporarily blocks Pentagon from punishing Sen. Kelly for call to resist unlawful orders
U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled that Pentagon officials violated Kelly's First Amendment free speech rights and “threatened the constitutional liberties of millions of military retirees.”
Fact check: What Trump got wrong and left out while threatening to block the new US-Canada bridge
President Donald Trump threatened in a Monday social media post to block the opening of a major new US-Canada bridge over the Detroit River.
Trump threatens to block opening of new US-Canada bridge
President Donald Trump threatened Monday to block the opening of a new bridge connecting the US and Canada, again lashing out at his country’s northern neighbor over a range of economic issues as the rift between Washington and Ottawa deepens.
US carrier shoots down Iranian drone and armed boats threaten US tanker as tensions in with Iran escalate
A US aircraft carrier shot down an Iranian drone that “aggressively approached” the ship in the Arabian Sea on Tuesday hours before two gunboats operated by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps approached a US-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz and threatened to board and seize the ship, according to a US military spokesman.
Trump warns UK against doing business with China after Starmer visits Beijing
It comes after the US president threatened to impose tariffs on Canada if it went through with economic deals struck with China
Trump warns UK against doing business with China after Starmer visits Beijing
It comes after the US president threatened to impose tariffs on Canada if it went through with economic deals struck with China
Panama court rules Chinese control of canal ports unconstitutional
Lawsuit was brought before court in 2025 as US threatened to seize control of strategic waterway.
US airlines issue travel waivers, announce cancellations ahead of widespread winter storm
A winter storm threatened thousands of flights heading into the weekend across two dozen states, as airlines issue travel waivers for customers impacted by the snow.
Business - Trump cancels threatened tariffs after reaching "framework of deal" on Greenland
Illinois faces federal defunding for state law requiring abortion referrals
Federal health officials threatened to strip Illinois of federal health dollars over a state law requiring medical providers to refer patients for abortions.
Starmer Pushes Back Against Greenland Tariff Threat as ‘Completely Wrong’
The British prime minister said his country “must stand up for its values” after President Trump threatened a new tariff war over acquiring the island.
Trump has tariffs. Europe has a ‘trade bazooka.’ This Greenland standoff could get ugly, fast
President Donald Trump threatened Saturday to impose new 10% tariffs on imports from several European countries. It could unravel months of progress made during trade negotiations settled after Trump’s trade war last year.
One question looms over tax debate: Are the billionaires bluffing?
The explosive debate over a proposed billionaire tax largely hinges on one question: would they really leave California, as many have threatened?
Viral manta ray video sparks legislation to ban captures for entertainment in Florida
A video recorded last summer off Panama City shows anglers pulling a massive manta ray onto their boat and placing it into a kiddie pool. The manta ray, a threatened species, was later exported overseas for exhibition.
Trump threatens to use Insurrection Act to put down protests in Minneapolis
President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to invoke the rarely used federal law to deploy the U.S. military or federalize the National Guard for domestic law enforcement, over the objections of state governors.
Trump announces Iran is stopping killing anti-government protesters
Trump announced that Iran is stopping the killing of anti-government protesters after he threatened to intervene.
Clinton fails to show for Epstein deposition, threatened with contempt of Congress
In a letter, the former president said a subpoena issued by the House Oversight Committee was “invalid and legally unenforceable.”
Trump says any country doing business with Iran will face 25 percent tariff
The US president has threatened Iran with military strikes amid widespread antigovernment protests there.
Trump threatens tariffs on countries doing business with Iran
President Trump threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on countries doing business with Iran on Monday in response to a violence crackdown by Tehran on growing anti-government protests. “Effecti…