Europe Faces Criticism Over Renewable Energy Ties with North Africa

Rachida Dati, France's Minister of Culture, made history on February 17 by visiting Western Sahara, becoming the first Western government official to enter the territory. Controlled by Morocco since the pull-out of Spanish colonial forces, Western Sahara is still recognized by the United Nations as a “non-self-governing territory” pending decolonization. Dati's trip to El Aaiún aimed to establish a French Alliance cultural and educational center, further solidifying Morocco’s claim over the region. In October 2023, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara during a visit to Rabat, which coincided with French companies securing contracts worth €10 billion in the country. Dati stated that France remains committed to enhancing cultural cooperation, signaling continued support for Morocco amidst the ongoing conflict with the Polisario Front, which advocates for independence and has resumed hostilities after a ceasefire ended in 2020. According to officials, the French initiative reflects broader diplomatic ties as multiple countries recognize Moroccan authority in the region.

NASA's Martian probes have reported an extraordinarily active spring on the Red Planet, characterized by explosive geysers and recurring avalanches. The transition into spring follows the northern hemisphere's seasonal cycle, which coincided with November 12, 2024, according to Selina Diniega from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Due to Mars' axial tilt of 25 degrees and its longer seasons, spring brings intense geological activity. As temperatures rise, frozen carbon dioxide on the surface sublimates—transitioning from solid to gas—leading to eruptions that propel gas, sand, and dust into the atmosphere. Recent images from the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter highlight these dynamic phenomena, including a significant avalanche of ice and distinctive "araneidoform terrain" formations resembling spiders. Spring on Mars not only features eruptions and avalanches but also strong winds that sculpt the landscape over time. It is believed that the seasonal winds contribute to the striking spiral patterns found in the planet's polar ice caps. Diniega remarked, "The onset of spring on Mars is very active. You could even say ‘explosive’.”

As Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, plans have emerged for the mass killing of street dogs, raising significant outrage from animal welfare organizations. Reports indicate that the Moroccan authorities are considering the elimination of up to three million street dogs to enhance the country’s image for incoming tourists. Controversial methods being discussed include shooting and public poisoning of these animals, which the government believes will improve urban aesthetics during the global event. This initiative echoes previous plans made for the 2022 World Cup bid, which also drew widespread condemnation and protest from various animal rights groups. Prominent figures, including renowned environmentalist Dr. Jane Goodall, have expressed their dismay. In a letter to FIFA, Dr. Goodall criticized the decision as “appalling” and warned that it could result in calls for boycotts from football fans, many of whom are animal lovers. The presence of stray dogs in Moroccan cities poses challenges, including health risks and potential aggressive behavior, but many advocates argue that humane solutions, such as sterilization and vaccination programs, would be more effective and ethical. International animal rights organizations have condemned Morocco's drastic plans, urging the government to seek alternative solutions to address stray populations. As discussions continue, global attention remains focused on this controversial issue leading up to one of football's biggest events.