Sophia Lewis, Author at Hounia

'It makes me feel strong': Burlesque is back - but is it empowering or degrading to women?

13

Jul

Culture and Entertainment

‘It makes me feel strong’: The Burlesque Revival – Empowerment or Degradation for Women?

Burlesque, once considered a niche form of entertainment linked to vaudeville shows and smoky lounges, is witnessing a cultural resurgence. In cities throughout the U.S. and internationally, fresh performers are reviving the genre’s mix of dance, theatrical elements, and sensual appeal. For many, it symbolizes a celebration of body positivity, creative expression, and women's empowerment. Conversely, it prompts reflective questions about objectification, societal norms, and the possibility of genuine liberation coexisting with the expression of sexuality.This tension is not new. From its 19th-century origins, burlesque has walked a fine line between subversion and spectacle. While it often included satire, parody,…

Fewer school-age children vaping in Australia since ban, study says

12

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Health

Ban leads to reduction in school-age vaping in Australia, study shows

A recent study has revealed a noticeable decrease in the number of school-age children using e-cigarettes in Australia, following the government’s implementation of tighter regulations on vaping products. The findings suggest that public health measures—particularly those targeting access and availability—may be having a positive impact on reducing youth vaping.The research, conducted by a team of health behavior specialists and public health researchers, analyzed data from a national survey of adolescents. The results indicate that since the introduction of the vaping ban and tighter import controls, the percentage of students regularly using e-cigarettes has dropped. This trend marks a significant reversal…

Faisal Islam: Inflation complicates next month's interest rate decision

12

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Investments and Business

Faisal Islam: Inflation and the Uncertainty of Next Month’s Interest Rate Decision

As the upcoming decision on interest rates looms closer, officials at the Bank of England are at a pivotal point. The ongoing issue of inflation complicates the forecast, posing challenges in deciding whether to maintain the status quo or alter the existing monetary strategy. Although inflation has decreased from its recent highs, the fundamental elements and potential direction of inflation continue to be worrisome for both central bank officials and the wider economy.The primary concern for the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is not merely if inflation is decreasing, but whether the decline is occurring at a sufficient pace, in a…

US deports five 'barbaric' migrants to Eswatini

12

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Social Responsibility

US enforces deportation of five ‘barbaric’ migrants to Eswatini

The government of the United States recently executed the deportation of five migrants to Eswatini, an action that has gained considerable notice because of the grave accusations aimed at the people involved. Officials depicted the migrants as having participated in violent and criminal acts, leading to rapid measures for their removal from US soil. This deportation underscores the persistent difficulties encountered by immigration enforcement bodies in weighing national security priorities against humanitarian and legal factors.Los migrantes en cuestión fueron supuestamente asociados con una serie de delitos que las autoridades locales y federales describieron como “atroces”, reflejando la gravedad de su…

Could axing two national holidays save France from its mountain of debt?

12

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Social Responsibility

Is cutting two national holidays a solution to France’s soaring debt?

As France continues to navigate the economic challenges of inflation, an aging population, and increasing fiscal pressures, proposals to reduce the national debt have gained renewed attention. Among the more provocative suggestions is the idea of eliminating two public holidays to increase national productivity and potentially generate billions in additional economic output. While the notion has sparked debate across political, economic, and social spheres, the central question remains: could cutting just two days of official rest significantly impact France’s growing debt?France presently acknowledges 11 public holidays each year as official. A number of these, including Bastille Day and All Saints’…

Labubu firm sees profit soaring by at least 350%

12

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Investments and Business

Labubu firm’s profits up at least 350%

Labubu, a company known for its distinctive collectibles and growing influence in the pop culture merchandise industry, has announced an extraordinary rise in profitability, with earnings increasing by more than 350% compared to the previous fiscal period. This substantial growth is attributed to a surge in consumer interest, a successful expansion into new markets, and strategic investments in branding and product development.The firm's results have surpassed what analysts anticipated, indicating that interest in specialized and character-focused collectibles is still robust, especially within Asian and global youth demographics. Labubu, a component of the continuously growing world of designer toys and lifestyle…