The R-word

We know we need to talk about it, but who dares to pronounce it, the R-word? In the era of political correctness, no hot potato is a potato. Euphemisms encroach. We change candy wrappings, we are ready to give up school plays and customs not to offend. But how relevant are these gestures if we don't talk about the real problem.

The Office or… Transformational Digital Engagement.

A day in London today for a digital communications workshop at the UK Central Office of Information (COI). The event brought together public sector (mainly governmental) communicators from across the EU and a smattering of hipsters from Google, Facebook, Microsoft and the like. Organised with firm-handed devotion to timing, the workshop was intensive, leaving a [...]

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From Russia with cold: 30 hour Moscow experience

Taxi driver no 1: "Until this country starts producing something, it will go nowhere" Lyudmila Alexeyeva: "It is not awarded to me, but rather to all of us, especially those, who have lost their lives for the cause. If they were alive, they would be happy" Sergei Kovalev: Russia is currently a stumbling block in the way of international progress. It's not alone; some other countries are also "splendid" enough. Oleg Orlov: "Sometimes you feel that you are scooping the sea with a spoon" Taxi driver no 2: "Airports, hotels, nightclubs, you wouldn’t service them without payoffs to gangs" @ the Airport café: "Man, move to another café. They sell the same stuff there, I'm busy"

Help! It’s a blank sheet moment…

It's a classic fantasy. You can start with a blank sheet, your options open, all choices yet unmade, no idea too crazy, no limits except the limits of your own creativity... I refer, naturally, to designing a website (what else?).

Asides

• If a stranger came up to you on the street, would you give him your name, Social Security number and e-mail address? Probably not.  Yet people often dole out all kinds of personal information on the Internet that allows such identifying data to be deduced. Services like Facebook, Twitter and Flickr are oceans of personal minutiae — birthday greetings sent and received, school and work gossip, photos of family vacations, and movies watched. Read more. #
• What should governments do to fight climate change?  The European Commission launched a campaign in order to encourage EU citizens to post a message and show their commitment to fighting climate change. Among its many supporters is also Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen. In an EUTube video, he appeals to viewers to inform their governments what they need to do to stop climate change, in the run up to the UN Climate Conference. By posting a message EU citizens can encourage governments to take action in the fight against climate change. If you want to fight climate change, you might want to join in. As the video says, let your voice be heard! (more info) #
• On 15 February this year, 18 people died and 200 were injured when two passenger trains collided on the outskirts of Brussels. Who or what is to blame? Two MEPs and the director of the European Railway Agency debate liberalisation of the sector, lack of technical harmonisation and the need for supervision and substantial investment.Watch the video. #
• Storm Xynthia claimed 60 lives and left many homes and businesses severely damaged as it swept through Europe. Following the unending stream of natural diasasters in recent weeks, MEPs are now calling for a European Civil Protection force. But the devil is in the detail, some wish to commit coins, others want manpower. Learn more. #
• Catherine Ashton's new diplomatic service, which will be in charge of EU foreign policy, "is causing conflict". Too many Brits in top jobs say some Member States. Also questions are still being asked as to its exact mission and cost. Watch. #
• "Will Jack and Jessica have the same career opportunities?" A new clip on EUTube explains the gender pay gap in a Commission communications campaign. Not bad.  Watch it! #
• "If I go home he will kill me." This was the thought of Swedish MEP Eva Britt-Svensson before she left her abusive husband. Being a public figure didn't make her immune to domestic violence and she wants all victims of domestic violence to know there is a way out. In an unusually candid personal interview for International Women's Day Svensson shares her story. #