See how it works
Book Anita with Paydesk
Make your booking securely through paydesk for these benefits:
1
Preferred Booking Channel
Anita is more likely to commit to assignments booked through paydesk, as it is a trusted platform that validates the seriousness and legitimacy of each engagement.2
Insured Bookings for Peace of Mind
We provide basic insurance coverage with each booking on paydesk, giving both you and the media professional confidence and protection while they work for you.3
Effortless Online Payment
Paydesk offers a payment protection system to ensure payments are only finalized when you are satisfied with the job completion. Freelancers trusts our process that guarantees their efforts are rewarded upon successful delivery of servicesStill have questions?
Check FAQAbout Anita
Anita Alig is a freelance journalist based in Spiddal, County Galway, Ireland, known for her insightful coverage of socio-economic issues. Her journalism is characterized by a deep analysis of the wealth gap, income inequality, and poverty, often framed within the context of global economic trends. Alig's articles are well-supported with statistics from reputable sources such as Credit Suisse and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), providing a robust foundation for her discussions on the economic challenges confronting the middle class and the poor, as well as the potential advantages of wealth redistribution. In addition to her contributions to online news websites, Alig manages two news and poetry blogs, where she blends her passion for current affairs with her love for literature. Her versatility extends to writing content for corporate clients, showcasing her ability to adapt her writing style to different audiences and purposes. Furthermore, Anita is the founder of the Poetry Cooperative, an initiative that reflects her commitment to fostering a community for poets and poetry enthusiasts. Through this platform, she encourages the sharing and appreciation of poetry, further demonstrating her dedication to the arts and her multifaceted career in journalism and media.
English
Journalism
Current Affairs
Portfolio
Asbestos threat in thousands of public buildings continues
Selection of articles published as a staff writer for Westminster Daily
Liam Fox attacks House of Lords after yet another government Brexit defeat
International Trade Secretary Liam Fox criticized the House of Lords after the government faced three more Brexit defeats, bringing the total to nine. Key among the amendments was one allowing MPs to renegotiate if Theresa May's deal was rejected. Fox urged Labour MPs to reject the amendment in the Commons, branding the Lords as 'unelected.' The Brexit cabinet sub-committee is divided on the customs union, with Fox and Boris Johnson opposing Theresa May's customs partnership plan. The DUP threatened to leave the government if Northern Ireland remains in the customs union. EU negotiator Michel Barnier visited Ireland and Northern Ireland to address border concerns.
Amber Rudd promises Windrush generation citizenship at no cost
The UK government, under pressure from the Windrush generation scandal, has promised free citizenship for affected individuals and their children. Home Secretary Amber Rudd announced the expedited process, following numerous stories of hardship faced by the Windrush generation. Prime Minister Theresa May has also indicated potential compensation. The offer has received mixed reactions, with calls for broader inclusivity and an end to immigration targets.
Brexit Update: This week, Teresa May suffered three separate Brexit setbacks
Teresa May faced significant challenges this week with three major Brexit-related setbacks. The House of Lords passed an amendment to the EU withdrawal bill, pushing for a customs union, while the House of Commons saw Conservative rebels vote against May's EU withdrawal bill, limiting ministerial powers. Additionally, the EU rejected the UK's latest proposals for the Irish border, further complicating Brexit negotiations. These events underscore the deep political divisions and the ongoing difficulties in reaching a Brexit agreement.
People's Vote: MPs from different parties demand referendum on final Brexit deal
MPs from various political parties, along with celebrities and business leaders, launched the 'People's Vote' campaign, advocating for a referendum on the final Brexit deal. The campaign aims to unite anti-Brexit groups and provide the public with an informed choice on the deal. Pro-Brexit supporters counter-protested, arguing against a second referendum. Key figures like Chuka Umunna and Caroline Lucas emphasized the importance of public involvement, while opponents like Lucy Harris and Nadine Dorries voiced strong objections.
Russia fears 'dangerous' escalation over military intervention in Syria
Following a suspected chemical attack in Syria, the US, UK, and France are considering military intervention without a UN mandate. Donald Trump has indicated action will be taken, while the UK cabinet supports action to deter further use of chemical weapons. Russia, invited by the Assad regime, warns of a 'dangerous' escalation and vows to protect its troops and Syria's sovereignty. The UN Security Council has seen heated exchanges, with Russia blaming insurgents for the chemical attacks and the US accusing Russia of supporting Assad. The OPCW is en route to Syria to investigate, and the Syrian government has agreed to provide access. The decision on the type of action to be taken by the western allies is still pending.
Brexit and the Good Friday Agreement - Tensions over the Irish border remain
The Good Friday Agreement, signed on 10 April 1998, established new government structures for Northern Ireland, aiming for peace and power-sharing. However, the Northern Ireland Assembly has been suspended since early 2017 due to political disagreements. Brexit negotiations have further complicated the situation, particularly concerning the Irish border. Despite assurances against a hard border, viable solutions remain elusive. George Mitchell, a key figure in the Good Friday Agreement, has urged the British and Irish governments to find reasonable compromises to avoid economic and social regression.
#InvisibleNoLonger Campaign highlights the issues facing women living with HIV
The Terrence Higgins Trust and the Sophia Forum have published a report titled 'Women and HIV: Invisible No Longer,' highlighting the disparities in care for women living with HIV in the UK compared to men. The report reveals that women, who make up one-third of the HIV-positive population, often face inadequate care, poverty, violence, and discrimination. The #InvisibleNoLonger campaign aims to address these issues, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis, continuous medical support, and inclusion of women in decision-making processes. Despite challenges, nearly half of the women surveyed reported a good quality of life. The campaign also seeks to encourage women to seek support and calls for service providers and policymakers to improve HIV care for women.
Coercive control: College graduate is the first woman to be convicted
Jordan Worth, a college graduate, was sentenced to seven and a half years in jail for domestic abuse, becoming the first woman convicted under the UK's 2015 coercive control laws. The case highlighted the psychological and controlling aspects of domestic violence, often overlooked in traditional perceptions of abuse. The article also discusses gender bias in domestic violence, noting that a significant percentage of victims are men, who often lack support services. A BBC social experiment demonstrated public bias in favor of female victims.
Trump thinks he can fire special counsel, Robert Mueller
Donald Trump has repeatedly attempted to fire special counsel Robert Mueller, who is investigating the Russia probe. Trump's frustration peaked over reports of impending subpoenas related to his dealings with Deutsche Bank. Despite his advisers' doubts about the legality of such actions, Trump believes he has the authority to dismiss Mueller. The FBI's recent searches of Michael Cohen's office and hotel room, related to claims by women of affairs with Trump, further fueled his anger. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders stated that Trump currently has no plans to fire Mueller, though observers question the president's actual power to do so.
UK retail sales drop - is the Beast from the East to blame?
UK retail sales experienced a significant drop due to the 'Beast from the East' weather phenomenon, with high street shops and petrol stations particularly affected. The Office of National Statistics reported a 1.2 percent drop in retail sales from the previous month, contributing to a decrease in first-quarter economic growth. Despite this, the Bank of England is expected to proceed with interest rate hikes. The article also highlights the impact of geopolitical tensions on oil prices and the financial struggles of Debenhams, which has cut its dividend following a substantial profit slump.
US - China tariffs dispute gathers momentum stoking further fears of a trade war
The escalating trade standoff between the US and China has seen both nations imposing significant tariffs on each other's products, with the US targeting 1,333 Chinese imports and China responding with $50 billion in tariffs on 106 American products, including soya beans. Despite the aggressive moves, China has expressed a preference for negotiation over conflict, though it remains prepared to retaliate against further US tariffs. The situation has prompted calls from Republican party members and industry leaders for a more measured approach from the US president. The potential trade war could have significant economic impacts on both American and Chinese sectors, particularly agriculture.
Windrush generation fear that 'nightmare isn't over yet'
Thousands of descendants of the Windrush generation, invited to live in Britain in the 1940s, face deportation threats due to tightened immigration controls introduced by Teresa May in 2012. Many have been stripped of their rights to work, claim benefits, and receive medical care, living in fear despite residing in the UK for over 50 years. The Home Office's failure to issue proper paperwork and the destruction of records have exacerbated the situation. Labour MP David Lammy criticizes Tory policies and demands accountability. Despite recent apologies and assurances, the affected individuals remain fearful, questioning the fate of those already deported.
UK officials request warrant to enter the headquarters of Cambridge Analytica
UK officials are seeking a warrant to access Cambridge Analytica's data following revelations of unethical practices by whistleblower Christopher Wylie. A Channel 4 documentary exposed the company's involvement in fake news campaigns and other unethical activities. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has requested Facebook to halt its audit of Cambridge Analytica to avoid prejudicing the investigation. Facebook's share price has dropped significantly amid the controversy, and Mark Zuckerberg has been asked to appear before the UK's Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee.
Grenfell Tower door half as fire-resistant as it's supposed to be
Investigations into the Grenfell Tower disaster revealed that a door on a lower floor resisted fire for only 15 minutes instead of the expected 30. Government officials call for further investigations to determine the impact of heat on the door's fire resistance. Residents expressed shock and dismay, continuing the #justiceforgrenfell campaign with silent marches and a petition urging the Prime Minister to build public trust in the inquiry. The public inquiry, led by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, resumes next week, focusing on emergency response, fire spread, and building design. A report on Phase 1 is expected in autumn.
Prepare for Disease X World Health Organisation Warns
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has added 'Disease X' to its list of deadly viruses, representing a 'known unknown' pathogen with the potential to cause a global health crisis. This inclusion aims to raise awareness and prepare for potential outbreaks by developing flexible vaccine and diagnostic platforms. Disease X could originate from zoonotic transmission or biological weapons, with historical precedents of such threats. Despite the focus on Disease X, experts emphasize that known pathogens like HIV, TB, and influenza continue to pose significant global health risks.
Gary Cohn, Donald Trump's top economic adviser resigns
Gary Cohn, Donald Trump's top economic adviser, resigned over opposition to Trump's decision to impose trade tariffs on aluminum and steel imports. Cohn, a Democrat, was considered a moderating influence on Trump's economic policies and helped push through tax cuts. His resignation follows Trump's controversial comments on the Charlottesville race riots and could further rattle stock markets. Trump praised Cohn's service, while Republicans and the European Union criticized the tariff decision, fearing a trade war and job losses in Europe.
No-deal Brexit could cost EU and UK firms £58 million report suggests
Research by Clifford Chance and Oliver Wyman indicates that a no-deal Brexit could impose £58 million in additional costs on UK and EU firms due to non-tariff and tariff barriers. The financial, agriculture, consumer goods, automotive, and food and drinks industries would bear the brunt of these costs. The report suggests that remaining in the customs union could mitigate these expenses, but Theresa May opposes this, citing it would betray the Brexit vote. The financial sector, particularly in London, is highlighted as vulnerable, with firms like UBS and Goldman Sachs already relocating jobs to Frankfurt.
Cambridge Analytica and the SCL Group - what we know so far
Cambridge Analytica, an offshoot of the SCL Group, has been embroiled in a scandal involving the misuse of Facebook data to influence the US presidential election and the Brexit referendum. Whistleblower Chris Wylie exposed the company's unethical practices, leading to an investigation by the ICO. Facebook has faced significant backlash, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg issuing an apology. The scandal has also implicated the pro-Brexit campaign group Vote Leave and highlighted the involvement of financier Robert Mercer. The investigation continues to uncover the extent of data misuse and its impact on political outcomes.
The Wealth Gap – Inequality Doesn’t Work, even for the Wealthy
The article discusses the growing wealth gap and income inequality in affluent societies, highlighting the struggles of the poor and homeless. It presents statistics from Credit Suisse indicating that a small percentage of the population owns a majority of the world's wealth, and the middle class is being squeezed. The article explores reasons for the widening wealth divide, such as tax policies, low incomes, and the rising cost of living. It also touches on the responsibilities of governments and corporations to address these issues, including education and tax reforms. The International Monetary Fund's findings are summarized, suggesting that increasing low and mid incomes could fuel global economic growth. The article concludes by arguing that a more equal distribution of wealth would benefit everyone, including the wealthy, by boosting economic growth and reducing poverty and conflict.
UK's economic model is broken according to the Archbishop of Canterbury
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and the IPPR think tank call for a radical overhaul of the UK's economic model to address the widening social divide. Despite economic recovery, workers' wages have fallen, and the wealth gap has increased. The IPPR criticizes current government policies for favoring the rich and corporations, and suggests reforms including wage increases and infrastructure investment. The chancellor, Philip Hammond, acknowledges the need for investment but rejects the notion that government policies have fueled the divide. The shadow chancellor, John McDonnell, supports the IPPR's findings, aligning with Labour's stance against Tory policies.
Grenfell Tower: Public inquiry will not allow residents to participate
Sophie Khan, who represented residents in the Lakanal House fire, advised Grenfell Tower residents to demand an inquest over a public inquiry, stating that the latter would not allow for resident participation and would be government-controlled. She argued that the tragedy was avoidable with the use of sprinklers and criticized the tenant management organization for not heeding residents' fire safety concerns. Khan suggested that a coroner-led inquest would be independent and allow residents to fully participate.
Tobias Ellwood concedes 'UK could have done more' in Libya
Tobias Ellwood acknowledged that the UK could have done more to prevent chaos in Libya following the 2011 Western intervention. At a Royal United Services Institute event, he defended RAF airstrikes but noted the international community's reduced involvement post-intervention. Libya now faces a power struggle among three governments, militias, and ISIS fighters, creating a fertile ground for terrorism. Emily Thornberry echoed Jeremy Corbyn's call to re-examine British foreign policy. The Libyan community in Manchester is horrified by the attacks and is trying to understand Salam Abedi's radicalisation, with some attributing it to online ISIS propaganda and contacts in Libya.
Keeping Britain Safe: How damaging have Tory policing cuts been?
The article discusses the impact of policing cuts in England and Wales, highlighting a reduction in the number of police officers and firearms officers since 2010. It references the London attacks as a catalyst for the debate on police funding, with the Conservative Party downplaying the cuts' significance and Labour criticizing Theresa May's role in the reductions. The article quotes various officials, including Cressida Dick, Chief of the London Metropolitan Police, and Mark Rowley, head of counter-terrorism policing, on the need for more resources and a change in strategy to combat terrorism effectively.
Fears for Northern Ireland peace agreement as May makes deal with DUP
The Conservative party's potential coalition with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) following a poor general election performance by Theresa May has raised concerns about the Northern Ireland peace agreement. The DUP's conservative stance on social issues and links to the UDA, a paramilitary group, have been criticized. The British government's impartiality in Northern Ireland's power-sharing negotiations is questioned, with Sinn Fein's position seen as precarious. The deadline for forming a new government looms, and the DUP's focus may shift due to their newfound influence in UK politics.
Jeremy Corbyn v Theresa May - The reaction in the media and on Twitter
The article discusses the media and public reaction to the pre-election event between Jeremy Corbyn and Theresa May, highlighting that many commentators and Twitter users viewed Corbyn as the clear winner. It criticizes Theresa May's performance and her refusal to engage in a direct debate with Corbyn, describing it as a sign of weakness. The article also notes the diminishing impact of May's 'strong and stable' mantra and anticipates the next major pre-election TV event on BBC's Question Time.
Jeremy Corbyn questions the effectiveness of UK's war on terror
Jeremy Corbyn has brought the UK's war on terror and related policing and foreign policy issues into the center of the general election campaign, questioning their effectiveness. He argues that British foreign policy may contribute to terrorism, a view criticized by political opponents including Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Sir Michael Fallon, and Rex Tillerson. Corbyn calls for increased police funding and criticizes May's record as Home Secretary for overseeing cuts in policing. The Labour Party supports Corbyn's stance, emphasizing the need for honesty about security threats.
Enda Kenny resigns and makes way for a new Irish Prime Minister
Enda Kenny has resigned as the leader of Fine Gael and Prime Minister of Ireland, fulfilling a promise made during his re-election in 2016. His tenure is marked by guiding Ireland through severe economic challenges, including the aftermath of an 80 billion IMF bailout and subsequent austerity measures. Despite criticism for not negotiating better terms with the European Central Bank and the Troika, Kenny is credited with stabilizing the economy and reducing unemployment. The leadership contest to succeed him is underway, with Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney as the main contenders. The new leader will face the significant challenge of managing the Brexit fallout.
Donald Trump apparently asked Comey to drop the investigation into Michael Flynn
President Trump reportedly urged then-FBI Director James Comey to drop the investigation into former national security adviser Michael Flynn, according to a memo by Comey. The memo, which could serve as evidence in court, was written after a meeting where Trump allegedly expressed his hope that Comey would let the investigation go. The White House has denied these claims, asserting Trump's respect for law enforcement. The investigation into Flynn continues, with calls from both Democrats and some Republicans for Comey to testify before Congress, highlighting the serious implications for Trump's presidency.
Labour Manifesto: Key points - Corbyn vows to change lives
The Labour Manifesto, released by Jeremy Corbyn, proposes significant left-wing policies including the renationalization of railways, abolition of university tuition fees, increased NHS funding, and the creation of a national care service. The manifesto also outlines Labour's stance on Brexit, rejecting a 'no deal' scenario and securing the rights of EU citizens. To fund these initiatives, Labour plans to increase taxes on company profits and the top 5% of earners, while maintaining current income tax rates for those earning less than £80,000. The manifesto aims to support vulnerable members of society while taxing higher earners.
Diane Abbott distances herself from her statement on Northern Ireland conflict
Diane Abbott's media performances are criticized for appearing incompetent, with specific reference to her treatment by Andrew Marr compared to Amber Rudd. The article questions the relevance of historical views on the IRA and highlights the importance of media impartiality. It also credits figures like John Hume and Bill Clinton for their roles in the Northern Ireland peace process.
IFS warns dramatic minimum wage increases could put low-paid jobs at risk
The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has expressed concerns over the proposed minimum wage increases by both the Labour and Conservative parties, warning that such dramatic hikes could lead to job losses for low-paid workers. The IFS recommends adhering to the Low Pay Commission's guidelines for wage increases, which have historically not impacted job creation negatively. The HMRC has been actively enforcing minimum wage laws, naming and shaming companies like Debenhams, Peacocks, Argos, and John Lewis for non-compliance. The IFS suggests annual reviews of pay rates to ensure balanced wage growth.
Election 2017 and the NHS funding gap - what are the parties promising?
NHS providers are using the upcoming election to highlight their priorities, including the need for increased funding due to service demand. NHS staff pay and working conditions are also concerns. The Liberal Democrats propose a 1% income tax increase for NHS funding, Labour promises to halt hospital cuts and abolish parking charges, and the Conservatives plan to add 10,000 mental health workers. Each party is addressing the NHS funding gap in their election campaigns.
×
Anita's
confirmed information
✓
Financial institution
Verified Jun 2020
✓
Phone number
Verified Jun 2020
✓
Joined
Jun 2020