Indian democracy and Indian economy: Self serving or inhibiting?

James Voortman explores India's current difficulties in advancing economic reform within a democratic political system. As one of Asia's shining democratic success stories India will be keen to push through much needed economic reforms; however, recent history has shown that this is easier said than done. For more, click here.

Hezbollah to the government: Everything must go (our way)

Lebanon's political foot dragging over the election of a new president continues to cast a shadow over the futre of the country. Since the end of Lahoud's term in November the countries main opposition parties have been unable to agree on a mechanism to vote in consensus candidate, Suleiman. Hezbollah and its allies continue to demand a cabinet veto in return for a resumption in talks aimed at creating a constitutional amendment allowing Suleiman, a civil servant, the ability to stand for and be elected president. Hezbollah have also threatened to stage mass protests, threatening to disrupt the Rafik Hariri International Airport and other major entry and exit ports if a solution is not found following the 12 January session of parliament. These threats will do nothing for the confidence of the long-sufferring Lebanese people who have faced the threat of civil war since the assassination of Rafik Hariri in 2005. The short term outlook for Lebanon remains bleak. It is highly unlikely that any compromise will be found on 12 January. Expect yet another delay on the issue and mass action by the oppostion. If you're visiting Lebanon at the moment sit tight...if you're planning to go you may want to hold tight and spend your money elsewhere, perhaps on a trip to the local mall to take advantage of the post Christmas clearance sales. Everything must go.