Publications

Moscow Uses Pop Culture to Distract the Masses

September 29, 2025 Ilan I. Berman Forbes

As the economic problems grow, Putin’s government has increased its efforts to distract its population from the extent of the financial and political disaster it has brought upon them. This is evident in the holiday atmosphere that fills its capital city, featuring pop-up gardens, light shows, fountains, and theme parks. Street festivals are the most common form of such celebrations, with over 10,000 events held in Moscow this summer alone.

Africa Political Monitor No. 57

September 29, 2025 Lilly HarveySarah Way

The RSF establishes a parallel government in Sudan;
Kenya courts Trump on trade;
A health emergency in Botswana;
Ethiopia inaugurates controversial grand renaissance dam;
African leaders unveil $100 billion green industrialization plan