CNN Claims Palestinians Celebrated The 2001 Terrorist Attacks

 

CNN ran a report of Palestinians celebrating the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. The Anti-Arab and anti-Muslim sentiment is projected by showing an unverified clip of  celebration. A liberal channel was engaging in similar arguments with right-wing media. The CNN report ignores the long history of the United States arming Israel. Occupation, invasions, and being colonized was enabled by the United States. Most Palestinians understand Israel's power is reliant upon aid from the United States. CNN claimed that some "blamed the United States." US policy continues to be anti-Palestinian and it was almost shocking that large celebrations did not happen. Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip for 78 years remained victims of Israeli terrorism. Combined with the support for the Gulf monarchies and forming armed groups in the Soviet-Afghan War blowback was inevitable. As long as Arab populations are subject to abuse, armed resistance will continue. The aftermath of the 2001 terrorist attacks was aggressive war and the reduction of civil liberties in the United States.   

The Rise of The AfD

 

The Alternative for Germany Party is seeing success in elections. The far-right political party does not have a majority in the state legislature. The AfD tends to have more support in the eastern states of Germany. The reason relates to economic disparities and the aftermath of the collapse of East Germany. The disdain for leftism or socialist ideas comes from memories of living under a Soviet supported state. Racism was a part of German history and did not disappear with the defeat of Nazi Germany. The migrant crisis was also a factor. The AfD emerged in 2013 during the early stages of the migrations from West Asia and Africa. The claim is that the AfD is pro-Russian, but what they desire is an end to the Russia-Ukraine War. The AfD still sees Eastern Europe and Russia in particular as lower. The new agenda to expand Germany's military demonstrates renewed hostility to Eastern Europe. Few political parties want to work with the AfD, but proposals have come form an unexpected place. The BSW, which is classified as left-wing could ally with the AfD. The traditional political labels do not matter when Germans are unified in racial hostility. The misnomer for this phenomenon is called populism, but the movement is xenophobic nativist nationalism. The reason political parties like the AfD are gaining momentum is due to the political establishment. Seen as oblivious to realities of the world and elitists voters in European countries are turning to far-right political parties. The Christian Democrats are facing possible losses in power. The AfD on its own is not formidable based on the election results. It could become a threat if it builds a large enough coalition to counter establishment political parties.  

Gloria Steinem Reveals Her Work With The Independent Research Service

 

While many praise Gloria Steinem's efforts for women's liberation and rights, elements of her background were questionable. During Steinem's youth she worked for the Independent Research Service. The organization founded by the CIA was designed to counter World Youth Festivals. These gatherings were held by communists and Marxists to promote socialist ideas. It was design to inspire the next generation of socialists and revolutionaries. American youth were unaware they were being used for intelligence gathering or efforts at sabotage. Gloria Steinem's activities in the Independent Research Service  were controversial. During an interview Gloria Steinem did not condemn the CIA, but spoke of it as a liberal institution. The intelligence organization was responsible for destabilization, violence, and various intrigues across the Third World in the Cold War era. The CIA continues to be a threat to Global South nations in the present. No record exists of Gloria Steinem continuing to work as a CIA asset. Critics assert to criticize her involvement is nothing more than ludicrous conspiracy theory. No one can be an activist for social justice if they work for the power structure. The feminism she promoted was about obtaining power for white women, while leaving others behind. This added more division to the civil rights movement. Despite this, Steinem was anointed social justice icon.     

Spain Struggles With Migration Waves

 

Spain is facing a migration crisis. The consequences of European interference in the domestic affairs of African Nations and military invasions has created unstable conditions. The migrants did  not reach Spain, but a remanent of European colonialism. Ceuta  is autonomous to a degree, but is Spanish territory.  Spain has maintained this colony since 1580. Bordering Morocco, the city  is on the African continent. The fact that Spain contains a few African territories should be unacceptable. There will be more waves of migration as economic and political factors force people to flee. Italy has used Spain's difficulty for political purposes. Anti-immigrant hatred is used in Italian politics to get more votes for far-right parties. Spain uses migrants for an easily exploited labor force. An aging population means certain jobs will remain unfilled. Getting migrants to apply for residence and work permits makes it appear as if  Spain is helping them. Low pay and poor working conditions await for immigrants coming to Spain. The media focus does not even examine the deaths involved attempting to get to Spain. Police and soldiers halted the migrants from even reaching Europe. Yet, there was panicked reporting in the European press. Racism and xenophobic nativist nationalism are becoming normalized in European society. The reaction to Spain's policies related to migrants demonstrates the popularization of intolerance.   

The Causes of The Argentina Soccer Riots

 

When Argentina was eliminated from the World Cup, riots broke out. To viewers it is perplexing to see sports fans engage in acts of violence. This was more than just losing a soccer game. The violence was rooted in racism, football hooliganism and fanatic nationalist ideas. The loss to Spain saw Argentina's  players assaulting the opposing team. Losing to Spain, the former colonizer was seen as an insult. The fanatic nationalism of Argentina translates into disrespect to other nations. The behavior of fans during matches and in public displayed blatant racism. Racial slurs and harassment was being done by Argentinians. The riots had soccer fans attacking property, fighting police, and threatening public safety. Buenos Aires was unsafe due the criminal activity of soccer fans. Argentina throughout its history used warfare and violence to make its demographic composition more white. The desire to be seen in a European classification alienates the Afro-Latino and indigenous populations. Football hooliganism has a connection to far-right extremists and hate groups. More crime will come as a result of  racial hatred and conservative governments. The causes of the riots were Argentinian racism, lack of efficient security, and a growing frustration from the public projected in criminal acts. Argentina was trying to use the World Cup as a way to show national superiority. Losing the World Cup undermined this belief. Despite the riots and  the team's loss, a celebration was held for the team. Argentina intends to also make a holiday as well. These actions show how the Javier Milei presidency wants to use soccer and the violence culture around it for political purposes. Soccer riots could become more frequent under these conditions.    

Mauritania's Crackdown On Refugees and Migrants

 

Mauritania is pursuing a  policy of cracking down on refugees and migrants. The influx of  people is the result of conflict in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Terrorist organizations and armed groups are attacking these nations. Refugees have no choice but to find safety elsewhere. Migrants are coming for economic reasons. Mauritania is used as an access point to the Canary Islands. From there getting to Spain could mean reaching France, Germany, or the UK. The dangerous travels, smuggling networks, and being detained by Mauritanian authorities put people's safety at risk. Migrants come from Senegal, Gambia, and Guinea. The renewed crackdown is part of a partnership by the European Union. The EU is getting Sahel and North African countries to participate in pushing back refugees and migrants. The EU asserts this is on humanitarian grounds directed at smuggling networks. The economic decline and unsafe conditions are a direct result of EU interference in Africa. Regime change, support of authoritarian leaders, and providing weapons to armed groups creates human migration. African countries refuse to use diplomatic leverage. A method of controlling European behavior would be to simply let migrants and refugees enter the EU. Mauritania would most likely not do this. The racism against Sub-Saharan  Africans and West Africans  is intense in the Sahel and North Africa. Mauritania is seeing a new wave of xenophobia presented in law and daily life. The immigration agreement undermines Mauritania's sovereignty, because it aids the objectives of Europe. Despite the barriers, migrants and refugees are still coming to Mauritania.   

The End of The Viktor Orban Hungary

 

After 16 years, Prime Minister Viktor Oban was defeated in an election. During his administration, xenophobic nativist nationalism was embraced. While his racism was documented prior to becoming prime minister, the European Union's disdain of him was due to diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation. Having dialogue with Russia should not be considered an offense. The Russo-Ukrainian War has divided Europe. The election of Peter Magyar does not mean dramatic political change. Magyar was at one time a member of Orban's Fidesz Party. Magyar expressed a desire to end corruption in government and improve public services. These are mere promises and it appears that new economic policies would result in more harm to the public. Hungary refused to stop using Russian energy. A shift to more Western European political direction is taking place. The new government is centre-right, which is suitable to the EU liberal establishment. The desire to stop the rise of right-wing nationalist  populism makes the political establishment embrace conservatives that are their enemies. The project to force European integration generated a backlash. If Peter Magyar fails to solve domestic concerns or foreign policy matters, Hungary could elect another far-right leader. Hungary's population was struggling with a declining economy. The European Union releasing funds is not going to be enough to solve these challenges. At some stage Viktor Orban was going to lose. Being prime minister for years, winning elections become more difficult.    

The Condition of The Netanyahu Government

 

Benjamin Netanyahu's government is facing wars in Lebanon, the Gaza Strip, and Iran. This also includes the conflict with the Houthi rebels. Israel was not able to defeat Hezbollah in 2006 and the conditions are not favorable now. The effort for the Likud Party to expand into West Asia are having devastating effects. The Iran War might be a distraction to the Israeli public, but that does not mean Netanyahu's criminal charges are dropped. Extended periods of warfare are going to harm the Israeli economy. Considering the precarious state of the world market, a large regional war exacerbates concerns. After the October 7th 2023 Hamas attacks, Israel made war crimes government policy. Schools, hospitals, and residential areas were bombed in Gaza. The violence never stops with annexation underway in the West Bank. Netanyahu is able to maintain power by forming coalition governments. Attempts at changing the judiciary creates a growing concern about Israel becoming more authoritarian. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking to remain in power as long as possible. A prime minister for life would make the Middle East more dangerous. The movement for a Greater Israel is underway and the Israeli public passively accepts it. Journalists are being targeted by the IDF for their reporting and leftist opposition supports Zionist doctrine. Israel and Turkey are competing for control over Syria. The Netanyahu government is going down a path of collapse. If enough military operations result in attrition and domestic unrests mounts Netanyahu could be removed from public office. Policies of expansion possibly could result in the end of the Zionist state itself.     

Africa Stream : The UK Race Riots and The History of The British Empire (2024)

Africa Stream reported on the UK race riots in 2024. Mainstream media explained it as acts by extremists and small far-right factions. The racial violence is tied to the history of the British Empire. To an extent the remanence of colonialism continues with the British  Commonwealth. Slavery, invasion, and attacks on indigenous populations in North America, Australia, and New Zealand were the crimes of the UK . India, Sudan, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Egypt, Myanmar, and other Global South nations had to struggle to get their freedom. The UK riots were the projections of white supremacist racism and the ideology of cultural dominance. Anti-immigrant sentiment is fueled by blowback from military interventions in Africa and West Asia. Muslims, Afghan asylum seekers, and the black British population are targets of hate. Politicians use non-whites as scapegoats for their failures. The white working class frustrated by the neoliberal capitalist system and the British elite direct their anger at non-white ethnic groups. Media such as LBC also contributes to an atmosphere of hate and prejudice. Myths related to crime or public disorder are constantly repeated on TV and radio. Then social media was blamed for spreading disinformation, which induced riots. Disinformation is presented as fact on corporate news, so the violence cannot be blamed on that. Think Tanks like the Quilliam Foundation and the English Defense League contributed to a racist atmosphere.      

Michael Parenti Explains Imperialism

 

Michael Parenti ( 1933-2026) was a figure of the American left. A scholar, historian, and activist Parenti examined political and social problems through a Marxist perspective. Michael Parenti explains imperialism in the context of economic exploitation. European colonial imperialism was driven by the need to steal wealth. African, Asian, and South American countries were not poor. Their natural resources were taken by the French, Spanish, Portuguese, Germans, Dutch, and English. The former Third World was a place to be used for mother countries. European colonial imperialism dominated the globe for close to 400 years. Only after World War II was this oppressive system challenged. Global South nations continue to resist their former colonizers. When the Soviet Union collapsed, the United States of  America was the sole superpower. Interference from the most powerful nation into Africa, Asia, and South America  destabilized entire regions. The citizens of the mother country did not benefit. As Parenti explains many were drafted into wars to fight for the interests of the upper class elite. Michael Parenti's lectures and writings provide a clear explanation on the connection between capitalism, imperialism, and the exploitation of workers.  

Violence At The African Cup of Nations Final

 

The African Cup of Nations experienced an incident of violence. Anger over penalty stoppage saw Senegalese and Moroccan fans fight. Senegal's win of the African Cup of Nations is being overshadowed by football hooliganism. Thoughts by fans also expose another concern. Racism directed at Sub-Saharan Africans is part of North African nations. Morocco appears to identify more with West Asia, rather than the African continent. Violence, riots, and football hooliganism tend to be associated with European countries. African could be importing the negative attributes of football culture. International sports competition is to a degree promoting antagonism among nations. Sports can act as a means of nations fighting one another without going to war. National resentments are projected in the games. Fans are either aware or subconsciously detect particular sentiments. King Mohammed VI tried to explain that Morocco desires African unity. Violence and discrimination against Sub-Saharan Africans disputes this claim. The host nation of an international sporting event should ensure public safety. The African Cup of Nations should be used as a platform to enhance African solidarity and be an example of the continent's contribution to professional sports. Violence and fan misconduct does not help the African Cup of Nations. Organizers and host nations must take into consideration possible problems in the future.    

Israel Recognizes Somaliland

 

Somalia faces being a failed state and foreign nations are now recognizing break away regions. Israel decided to recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Turkey condemned the action and expressed support for the Somalian government. Israel is not just seeking to expand in West Asia, but also have a presence in Africa. Having an African ally close to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden would be useful. Mainly, the military objective would be to target Houthi rebels using Somaliland as a launching site. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud articulated that Israel's motives are connected to the war in Gaza. President Mohamud implied that Israel intends to use the territory for refugees. Somaliland would effectively become a puppet state of Israel. The majority of the world does not recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Somaliland under these conditions would have to accept the Abraham Accords. Sudan and Morocco are the only African states that signed the agreements. The African Union has failed to take a forceful position against Israeli interference on the African continent. Israel's attempt to establish bases in the Horn of Africa will destabilize the region. Support for terrorist organizations could increase. Other armed groups could emerge to stop the infiltration of the Zionist state. Somalia is under attack from external enemies and domestic challenges. North African states are going to have more of a negative reaction to Israeli diplomatic shifts. Somalia should consider recognizing a Palestinian state to counter attempts of balkanization.         

Nubian Artifacts Are Under Threat In Sudan

 

The civil war in Sudan has brought Nubian artifacts under threat. Thefts, looting, and damage to historical objects is becoming widespread. The criminal activity mostly comes from the Rapid Support Forces. The reasons have ethnic overtones. The RSF was formed from the Janjaweed militia, which were mostly Arabs. The Janjaweed were fighting to end rebellion in Darfur. The RSF has been reported to have assistance from the United Arab Emirates. Throughout history there have been Arab attempts to wide out African history. West Asian invasion has ancient roots in Nile Valley civilization. The RSF has a goal of establishing an Arab state and part of this involves the destruction of  Sudan's ancient  treasures. Sudanese Arabs, Nubians, Zaghawa, Beja, and Nubians form the population of the country. Sudan as a rich and unique history, which needs to be preserved. The attacks on the Sudan National Museum are a major concern. The Sudan National Museum was established in 1959 for preserving antiquities. At the time, flooding from Egypt's Aswan Dam put artifacts and monuments  at risk. The Sudan National Museum became a sanctuary for cherished relics. The Sudan National Museum has an estimated 100,000 artifacts. Now, the collection is at risk of becoming prizes of war or being sold by the RSF. The Sudanese Armed Forces are not focused on securing artifacts. Their primary objective is to take back the areas  that the RSF is in control of. Sudan cannot allow the history of Kerma, Kush, and Meroe to be erased. Sudan should consider shipping artifacts to other African nations. Securing museums and the artifacts needs to be part of  the strategy the Sudanese Armed Forces. Archeologists, historians, and academics need to document all the information they can to prevent it from becoming lost.  

Israel's Attack on Qatar and Expansion of Aggressive War

 

Israel's strike against Hamas leaders residing in Qatar was a turning point. Gulf monarchies are no longer safe from Israel's military aggression. The Gulf monarchies decided to align with the West and the result was a lapse in security. Now, there is a possibility that Jordan and Egypt will break treaties with Israel, because the public's ire continues to grow. Failure to respond forcefully, could induce mass uprising in Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Israel continues to starve and bomb Gaza, but the resistance continues. The Gulf monarchies do not have the military strength to confront Israel, but there are certain options. The shutting down of US bases, an alliance with Iran, and supporting various armed groups could do much to halt Israeli expansion. Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani expressed his desire to see an independent Palestinian state. Qatar has been known to arm a number of Islamist groups. These armed groups were active in Syria and Libya. Qatar could direct armed groups against Israel if more strikes continue. Violations of national sovereignty and blatant anti-Arab racism are not going to be tolerated. The following months could see immense blowback either from the Gulf monarchies or other non-state actors. Ministers are gathering to discuss punishments that Israel should face. The Doha attack signals the death of the Abraham Accords. The more violent Israel becomes, the more unity is created among Arab states. Diplomatic isolation in West Asia could have major economic consequences. Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, or Kuwait are not dependent on Israel for trade. The attack on Qatar somewhat parallels the attack on Tunisia in 1985. The PLO's base in the country was attacked and the sovereignty of a country was violated.     

Benjamin Netanyahu Discusses Views on The Arab-Israeli Conflict (1978)

The violence in the Gaza Strip and West Bank has its roots in the conflicts in West Asia. Before Benjamin Netanyahu became prime minister of Israel, he expressed disdain for Arab nations. Back in 1978, Netanyahu spoke to an American audience. When speaking Netanyahu claims the aspiration for Arab self determination should not be taken into consideration. The reason Arab states would not accept the state of Israel was because it was a settler colonialist nation. Calling it a Jewish state would be incorrect. Israel is a Zionist state. Israel continued to steal Arab land and occupy areas for settlers. The ethnic cleansing, genocide, and induced famine in Gaza in the 21st century demonstrates Israel's true intentions. The domination of West Asia and expanding the Ashkenazi Jewish demographic are objectives of the Likud Party. Israel has not fulfilled its obligations of being peaceful with its Arab neighbors. Even with the peace treaties signed with Egypt and Jordan, anti-Arab racism is policy. It is unlikely that Netanyahu will seek a ceasefire in the Gaza-Israel War or accept a Palestinian state. Based on past interviews, speeches, and talks   Benjamin Netanyahu sees Arabs as a problem. The United States in the 1970s aided Israel and continues in the 2020s. The myth of Israel being a victim was expressed by Netanyahu in 1978. As prime minister, the myth was shattered as the world watches Israel engage in human rights violations.  

 

Malcolm X Describes Collaborators In An Oppressive System (1963)

 

May 19, 2025 marks what would have been Malcolm X's 100th birthday. Back in 1963, he described how members of an oppressed group collaborate with an oppressive system. When slavery was practiced in America there was a division between the enslaved. Those who worked in the mansion of the plantation owners got more privileges. The enslaved who worked in the fields were treated the worse. Malcom X's discussion of slavery can be applied to various oppressive systems. Countries invaded and then occupied by a foreign power do have collaborators. An oppressive system cannot exist without some collaborators. Although slavey was abolished, the African American population was not free. Malcolm X criticized the emphasis on integration, not out of support for separation of the races. Rather his vision was of an self-sustaining African American community and possibly an independent black nation in North America. After enslavement, violence, and racial segregation black separatism seemed like a practical solution. Individuals who cooperate with oppressive systems are not victims. They are instruments of the political mechanism.  

Afrikaners Coming To America

 

Afrikaners are coming to America. The Trump administration has given them refugee status. This is one of many attempts to undermine South Africa. Only 59 Afrikaners arrived in May under the new resettlement program. These arrivals are not refugees nor are they victims of persecution. The African National Congress has never passed any legislation to attack the white minority in South Africa. The white farmers continue to hold prejudiced convictions and are part of the reason inequality still remains in South Africa. The reason the resettlement program exists is due to the influence of Elon Musk. Musk wants to promote Afrikaner nationalism and white supremacist racism. Giving white immigrants priority is a way to counter America's demographic shift. Simultaneously, the Trump administration wants to break the BRICS alliance. The special treatment for Afrikaners demonstrates America's hatred for non-white immigrants. The United States has not given asylum to Iraqis, Afghans, Libyans, Somalians, or Syrians. The US bombed all of these countries and created a refugee crisis that effects Europe, Africa, and Asia. South Africa was too lenient on the Afrikaners. The ANC chose reconciliation, while Zimbabwe reclaimed the land that was stolen. The Apartheid regime is gone, but remanence of the structure still remains. It might be time for South Africa to consider expulsion of the Afrikaner population, if further offenses continue. Welcoming Afrikaners to America only further damages diplomatic relations. Considering that both the United States of America and Apartheid South Africa were born out of settler colonialism these developments make sense in a political context. The Afrikaners coming to America are going to be disappointed. They are moving to a country being more racially diverse. Their numbers are not enough to alter America's demographic changes.    

Ukraine Seeks Diplomatic Ties With South Africa

President Volodymyr Zelensky came to South Africa to strengthen diplomatic ties. The conversations with South African Cyril Ramaphosa ranged from trade and the situation in Eastern  Europe. The trip was cut short by news of bombings of the Ukrainian  capital of  Kyiv. The visit was really not about bilateral relations. It was President Zelensky's attempt to undermine Russia's diplomatic status with South Africa. The BRICS members do not favor sanctions  on Russia or the growing anti-Russian sentiment within the European Union. Attempts have been made for peace settlements or possible ceasefire. All have been rejected. South Africa hosting the Ukrainian president seems odd considering the past treatment of Africans residing in Ukraine. African students faced discriminatory treatment when fleeing Ukraine in 2022. Africans in Ukraine constantly face forms of prejudice and discrimination. Ukrainian forces are active in parts of Africa according to some reports. Ukraine has sent special forces to Sudan and Mali. The reason Ukraine did this was to undermine the Wagner Group and Russia diplomatic missions in Africa. These instances of interference demonstrate that Ukraine is not an ally of African nations. The 2023 African Union peace delegation to Ukraine was rebuffed and subject to harsh treatment. President Zelensky was demanding that European countries continue to support the war effort. Seeing as arms  are  dissipating Ukraine is looking elsewhere. South Africa is under no obligation to help Ukraine or any other European state. After the 2023 AU peace deal proposal, it is obvious Ukraine does not value African council. The Russia-Ukraine War does work to the benefit of Africa. If the European Union keeps funding the conflict it will weaken the UK, France, and Germany. This means Europe will no longer be able to militarily intervene in Africa. Chances of Ukrainian victory are narrow and South Africa has little to gain from a war torn nation.  

 

Israel Intends Complete Conquest of the Gaza Strip

 

The Gaza-Israel War continues unrestricted. Israel asserts that the military objective was to rescue the hostages. Instead, the attack is more of a war of aggression seeking regime change. After several attempts at a ceasefire the Likud Party reveals its true intentions. Territorial expansion and annexing certain areas are the main objectives. Israel is trying to stop the creation of a Palestinian state. Simultaneously the Zionist state wants to keep Syria and Lebanon in a weakened conditions. Israel is forming what is known as security zones. These areas have a huge IDF occupation, but do not allow Palestinians to remain. Arabs residing in Israel are under a threat. Those refugees seeking to escape are at risk. The bombing of refugee camps has occurred. Rafah is a pathway to Egypt. Palestinians are going to have to find safety in neighboring Arab states. If the atrocities continue to escalate Jordan and Egypt are going to be forced to respond. The treaties that have been signed with Israel might not remain in place. Israel is absorbing mostly southern Gaza. The buffer zones being formed are nothing more than territories that will be added to the Zionist state. Palestinians have few options for self-defense and resistance. Hamas is not an effective fighting force. The PFLP and PLO are not as equipped compared to the Israeli military. The only country that has the potential to stop Israel is Iran. The complication is that Arab states are suspicious of the Islamic Republic. The Gulf monarchies are western aligned and see Iran as a security risk. Hamas has released hostages, but 24 are thought to be imprisoned in Gaza. A deal was proposed that these hostages would be released if Israel ends the war. The offer was refused. The blowback could be immense. Citizens from other Arab states could come to the Gaza Strip to participate in armed resistance. If Arab leaders look pusillanimous in the face of Israeli aggression, anti-government protests could breakout. Palestine is fighting now to resist the last major outpost of settler colonialism. The war crimes in the Gaza Strip prove Israel never wanted peace, only conquest.      

Marine Le Pen Seeks To Appeal The Ban On Running For The French Presidency

 

Marine Le Pen was found guilty of embezzlement. She will not serve any prison time . Two of the custody detainments are suspended, while the other two years will be a status of house arrest. This will require the use of an electronic tag .  Instead Marine Le Pen is prohibited from running in the next French presidential election. The misuse of European Union funds is a serious charge, but the ban on political office is has indications of political partisan motivations. If  Marine Le Pen was such a threat, a harsher prison sentence would have been imposed. The fact that individuals of such a corrupt nature can reach that level demonstrates the weakness of  the European liberal democratic system. This also has another negative consequence. Leaders are going to criminalize their political opponents on both the left and right. As Europe struggles economically, more are going to favor the conservative and far-right political factions. Suppressing political figures or movements is not going to defeat extremist elements within France. Marine Le Pen is seeking an appeal. It is dubious if the ruling can be overturned by 2027. Every attempt Le Pen made to be elected president she failed. The motivation to disqualify her now, might be due to the possibility Le Pen could win. A small number of Le Pen's political competitors also expressed concerns about the ruling. The National Rally Party is going to plot reprisals in reaction to this verdict. The appeals process is going to have legal complexities and opens the debate about the law in relation to political figures. 

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