The Pew Research Center has conducted a poll in 38 countries on attitudes toward freedom of speech and freedom of the press. The results suggest broad support for those freedoms, but the regional differences in support are important to notice. The poll also asked questions about freedom of religion and gender equality which reflect wider diversity across the 38 countries. The poll reveals the extent to which liberal values underpin much of global civic society.
Germany has decided to send 1,200 troops to join the fight against Daesh (ISIS). The troops will be in a supporting and advisory role, but by simply sending troops abroad, Germany has made a bold statement. Since the end of World War II, Germany has been especially sensitive to any move that would suggest a rebirth of German militarism. Additionally, Germany has one of the largest Muslim populations in all of Europe and runs the risk of alienating that segment of its population by joining a fight against Muslim fighters.
Brazil’s economy shrank by 1.7% in the third quarter of 2015, a decline significantly larger than the predicted 1.2% decline. The data confirms that Brazil–which has the largest economy in Latin America–is in a full-fledged recession, spelling trouble for the entire region. Additionally, the economic decline spells further trouble for President Rousseff who has been undermined by corruption scandals surrounding some of her closest aides.
World Politics News 
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