The latest edition of the Verification Handbook

The article discusses the release of the latest edition of the Verification Handbook, a resource aimed at equipping journalists with the necessary skills to tackle modern challenges such as social media account verification, bot detection, analysis of private messaging apps, and identification of information operations and deep fakes. It emphasizes the chaotic nature of today's information environment and the ease with which it can be manipulated. The handbook is an update to previous editions and is published by the European Journalism Centre with support from Craig Newmark Philanthropies.

The Best Places to Volunteer in Madagascar

Volunteering in Madagascar offers life-changing experiences through various organizations focused on marine ecotourism, coral reef protection, wildlife conservation, and community development. Cetamada promotes sustainable ecotourism and marine conservation, while Blue Ventures engages in community conservation and coastal management. WWF Madagascar offers unique conservation experiences, and the Madagascar Research and Conservation Institute provides diverse activities in a luxury travel destination. The Lemur Conservation Network focuses on saving endangered lemurs, and Maventy aims to improve child nutrition and maternal healthcare. Frontier offers opportunities in nature conservation and education, promoting positive change in underfunded schools.

This Is the Story Behind Madagascar's Incredibly Long Names

In Madagascar, traditional names are a blend of first and last names, often long and significant in meaning. Historical figures from the Imerina Kingdom had notably lengthy names, with the longest being Andrianampoinimerinatompokoindrindra. French colonization in 1896 led to the shortening of names. Malagasy words are generally long, and French is often used to simplify communication. Concerns exist about the preservation of the Malagasy language among the youth.

Anti-trafficking activist held without trial in Madagascar

Clovis Razafimalala, the head of Lampogno, an organization fighting against illegal rosewood trafficking in Madagascar, has been imprisoned since September 2016 on charges of unauthorized rebellion and burning state files and property during a protest he denies participating in. Despite no trial date being set, his detention raises concerns about the civil rights of Malagasy environmental activists. The article details the background of rosewood trafficking in Madagascar, particularly after the 2009 coup, and the efforts by Razafimalala and his organization to combat it, including public education, lobbying, and facing threats. The article also mentions the broader context of environmental activism in Madagascar, the challenges faced by activists, and the international attention the case has received, including a campaign by Amnesty International.

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