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  • What Are “Rare Earths” and Why Are Countries Racing to Secure Them

    Freepik

    Why They Are So Important

    Everyday Technology

    Rare earth is in nearly everything we use. They are essential for manufacturing smartphones, screens, speakers, cameras, lasers, hard drives, and computers. They allow components to be miniaturized and devices to perform better.

    Energy Transition and Electric Mobility

    These elements are vital for advancing sustainable technologies.

    • Electric cars rely on permanent magnets made of neodymium and praseodymium in their motors.
    • Wind turbines use rare earth to generate energy more efficiently.

    As the world accelerates the shift to clean energy, global demand for these metals is rising rapidly.

    Defense and Geopolitics

    The same elements are used in radars, drones, satellites, and guided missiles, making them strategic for national security. Countries controlling production or exports gain political power and global influence.

    What Are Rare Earth?

    Despite the name, rare earth isn’t actually rare in the Earth’s crust. They are special because they occur in low concentrations and are mixed with other minerals, requiring expensive and complex processes to separate them.

    These elements — called rare earth elements (REEs) — include 17 metals: the 15 lanthanides plus scandium and yttrium. Their magnetic, electrical, and luminescent properties make them essential for modern technology and the green economy.

    Who Dominates Production — and What’s the Problem?

    Production Concentration

    Although deposits exist in many countries, extraction and refining are heavily concentrated in China, which produces over two-thirds of global mining and nearly all refining of certain types.

    Why Few Countries Explore at Scale

    Several reasons:

    • Low profitability relative to investment required.
    • High environmental impact, producing toxic and radioactive waste.
    • Complex infrastructure, as the process involves separation, purification, and manufacturing of alloys and specific magnets.

    What Is at Stake for Countries?

    Energy and Industrial Security

    If rare earth supplies are disrupted by trade barriers or geopolitical disputes, entire industries — like electric vehicles and defense — could halt.

    Strategic Autonomy

    To reduce dependence, many countries are investing in new mines, local refining, and recycling components containing rare earth. It’s a race for technological independence.

    Green Economy Transition

    In a low-carbon economy, access to rare earth is crucial. Those controlling these resources will have a competitive advantage in clean energy production and sustainable technologies.

    The Strategic Role of Rare Earth

    Rare earth go beyond technology: they are key to economic and geopolitical independence and to developing sustainable solutions in energy, transportation, and communication. Investing in research, recycling, and responsible extraction is both strategic and an opportunity to create cleaner technologies while reducing reliance on a few global suppliers.

    References

  • Gaza Needs Peace: Why an Agreement Now Could Save Thousands of Lives

    Flickr/Rusty Stewart (Creative Commons)

    The Hope Born from Diplomacy

    Amid the devastation that marks Gaza, talks of a possible U.S.-mediated agreement between Hamas and Israel are growing. After months of conflict, with thousands of civilians dead and an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, the search for a truce is no longer just political — it has become a matter of survival.

    The Human Cost of War

    Hospitals without power, malnourished children, entire families buried under rubble — this is the daily reality for the people of Gaza. According to international agencies, more than one million people in the region face extreme hunger, while the blockade prevents the entry of basic supplies. Each day without an agreement means more lost lives and a future even further from reconstruction.

    The Role of the United States and the International Community

    The direct involvement of the United States in negotiations brings a rare opportunity for effective mediation. Although Washington and Tel Aviv have historically maintained close relations, international pressure for a ceasefire has been growing. A resolution that ensures security for Israel and dignity for Palestinians could pave the way for lasting peace — something decades of violence have failed to achieve.

    Why Palestine Must Act Now

    For Gaza, accepting a peace agreement is not surrender — it is survival. The rebuilding of cities, the return of children to school, and the reopening of hospitals depend on a stable environment and international cooperation. As the fighting continues, it is the civilian population that pays the highest price, without voice or refuge.

    The Chance for a New Beginning

    The future of Gaza cannot be defined only by resistance, but by the ability to turn suffering into reconstruction. A fair agreement, accompanied by humanitarian aid and political guarantees, could restore hope to a people who have struggled for years to exist. Peace may not erase the scars of war, but it is the only path capable of preventing new ones from being created.

    References:

  • Children on Social Media: When Exposure Becomes a Risk of Abuse

    Pixabay

    The rising risk of child exposure on social media

    In recent years, many families have shared aspects of their children’s lives online. While often harmless, this exposure can attract unwanted attention. Children and teenagers become potential targets for individuals with malicious intent, such as pedophiles and abusers, who exploit this visibility to prey on victims.

    The profile of online predators

    Digital predators often use fake profiles to establish contact with minors, creating a false sense of friendship and trust. Through seemingly innocent interactions, they manipulate victims, leading them into dangerous situations. Easy internet access and lack of parental supervision increase children’s vulnerability.

    Consequences of early digital exposure

    Early exposure on social media can lead to:

    • Risk of sexual abuse: Online visibility facilitates contact with ill-intentioned individuals.
    • Mental health problems: Pressure to maintain a public image can affect self-esteem and emotional well-being.
    • Compromised privacy: Personal information shared can be misused.

    The role of parents and guardians

    Parents should take protective measures in the digital environment, including:

    • Monitoring online activities: Tracking children’s internet and social media use.
    • Digital education: Teaching about internet risks and the importance of privacy.
    • Privacy settings: Adjusting social media to limit who sees shared content.

    The need for regulation and awareness

    Experts stress the urgency of public policies regulating children’s exposure on social media. Awareness campaigns are also essential to inform parents about risks and preventive actions.

    References

    • Ministério Público do Estado do Pará (MPPA). “Abuse and sexual violence against children and adolescents.” Link
    • Câmara dos Deputados. “Cybercrimes against children and adolescents on the internet.” Link
    • Ministério Público de Santa Catarina (MPSC). “About pedophilia on the internet.” Link
    • Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa (UEPG). “Exposure of children on social networks is a gateway for criminals.” Link
    • Ministério Público da Bahia (MPBA). “Safe navigation.” Link

  • PIX: The Payment System That Is Transforming Brazil

    What is PIX?

    PIX is an instant payment system created by the Central Bank of Brazil, launched in November 2020. It allows transfers and payments to be made in real time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, free of charge for individuals. Central Bank of Brazil

    Exponential Growth

    Since its launch, PIX has seen significant growth. In 2023, nearly 42 billion transactions were made through the system, representing a 75% increase compared to the previous year. Febraban

    Advantages for Users

    PIX offers several advantages for users, such as:

    • Speed: Transactions are carried out in real time.
    • Free of charge: No fees for individuals.
    • Accessibility: Available to all participating banks and individuals with a regular CPF.
    • Security: Uses cutting-edge technology to ensure transaction security.

    PIX Installments: A Revolution in Instant Credit

    One of the most anticipated new features of PIX is PIX Installments, which allows consumers to split purchases into multiple payments directly through the system, without needing a traditional credit card. This functionality expands PIX’s reach to higher-value purchases, making credit access quick and easy, without bureaucracy. PIX Installments is a solution that promises to transform consumption, especially for small and medium-sized businesses, which can offer this option directly to customers at lower costs than credit cards.

    Impact on Commerce

    PIX has proven to be an efficient tool for commerce, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. It reduces costs associated with credit card fees and improves cash flow by allowing merchants to receive payments immediately. The arrival of PIX Installments is expected to increase sales by offering more options and flexibility to consumers.

    Future Perspectives

    The Central Bank of Brazil continues to improve the PIX system with new features, such as “Automatic PIX,” which will allow recurring payments to be made easily, and is also expanding the reach of PIX Installments.

    References

  • BRICS Without the Dollar: How a New Currency Could Shake the American Economy

    Pixabay

    BRICS Challenging Dollar Dominance

    The BRICS group — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — is coordinating ways to trade among themselves using their own currency, different from the U.S. dollar. This move has the potential to weaken the dollar’s hegemonic position as the global reserve currency and the standard for international trade transactions, a status that has supported the economic power of the United States for decades.

    Domino Effect: Declining Demand for the Dollar

    The dollar maintains its value and influence mainly because it is widely used in international trade and held in central bank reserves. If the BRICS countries start trading among themselves in their own currency, global demand for the dollar will plummet. Fewer dollars circulating internationally means a devaluation of the American currency, rising inflation, and loss of U.S. purchasing power.

    Sanctions and Influence Power Compromised

    The United States uses the dollar as a geopolitical weapon: it controls the global financial system and imposes economic sanctions that hit countries and companies challenging its interests. If BRICS adopts another currency, member countries can circumvent these sanctions, drastically reducing U.S. influence on the international stage.

    Impact on U.S. Deficit Financing

    The U.S. depends on selling Treasury bonds to finance its public deficit since international investors buy these bonds with dollars. With reduced use of the dollar, fewer countries and foreign investors will be interested in these bonds, increasing U.S. interest rates and making it harder to finance American debt, potentially leading to a severe fiscal crisis.

    Consequences for the Financial Market and U.S. Domestic Economy

    Losing reserve currency status may trigger capital flight, instability in the U.S. financial markets, and less easy credit, which has fueled U.S. economic growth for decades. This impacts jobs, investments, and the standard of living of Americans.

    Resistance and Uncertain Future

    Although the U.S. still holds economic and technological advantages, the possibility of a strong and united economic bloc like BRICS using its own currency poses a real and growing threat to American supremacy. The future will depend on the U.S.’s ability to adapt or respond to this structural change in the global financial system.

    References

  • PIX: The Revolution That Threatens Card Companies’ Profits and Promotes Financial Freedom

    What is PIX?

    PIX is an instant payment system created by the Central Bank of Brazil, launched in November 2020. It allows real-time transfers and payments, 24/7, free of charge for individuals.

    Threat to Card Corporations

    The business model of major credit card companies, like Visa and Mastercard, relies on charging fees ranging from 1% to 2.5% per transaction. PIX, on the other hand, offers significantly lower fees — about 0.33% for businesses — and is often free for consumers. This difference means substantial savings for merchants and consumers, making PIX an attractive and challenging alternative for traditional card operators.

    How Card Companies’ Dominance Affects People’s Wallets

    The near-monopoly of card companies causes merchants to pass high fees onto consumers, who end up paying more for goods and services. Additionally, banks and card issuers often charge high interest rates on credit use, directly impacting family budgets and personal finances. PIX breaks this cycle by offering a payment method with little or no fees, helping to lower the final cost for consumers.

    Financial Freedom for Countries

    Beyond cost reduction, PIX promotes financial inclusion by allowing unbanked individuals to participate in the digital economy. It facilitates access to essential financial services like bill payments, transfers, and online purchases without relying on traditional financial intermediaries. This strengthens countries’ financial sovereignty, reducing dependence on foreign financial systems and promoting a more self-sustaining economy.

    Reactions from Card Corporations

    The growing popularity of PIX has generated significant reactions among credit card companies. In July 2025, then-US President Donald Trump criticized the system, claiming it harms American companies. This stance reflects concerns over market share loss and decreasing revenues from transaction fees.

    The Future of PIX

    PIX continues to evolve, introducing new features like installment payments, allowing consumers to split purchases into multiple payments directly through the system. This innovation further expands PIX’s reach, making it a powerful tool in transforming the global payment system.

    References

  • Childhood Hunger That Harms the Future at Work

    Pixabay

    Imagine growing up hungry and having your brain deprived of essential nutrients to function properly. This is the harsh reality for millions of children facing malnutrition. The impact goes far beyond physical health: lack of food in childhood can impair cognition for life, limiting job opportunities and perpetuating cycles of poverty.

    The Impact of Malnutrition on Child Cognition

    During the early years of life, the brain develops rapidly and requires specific nutrients to form essential neural connections. Malnutrition, especially deficiencies in iron, zinc, and fatty acids, can cause delays in cognitive development, problems with memory, attention, and learning. Studies indicate these deficiencies directly affect intellectual capacity and school performance.

    Consequences for Adulthood and the Job Market

    Adults who suffered malnutrition in childhood often face challenges in the job market. Cognitive impairments can result in lower productivity, difficulty learning new skills, and less education. Consequently, these individuals have a harder time securing well-paying jobs, increasing the likelihood of remaining economically vulnerable.

    The Poverty and Malnutrition Cycle

    Childhood malnutrition is both a cause and effect of poverty. Limitations in cognitive and productive capacity reduce chances of social mobility, perpetuating the poverty cycle across generations. Furthermore, health costs and low productivity impact economic development in poorer countries, creating a difficult-to-break vicious circle.

    The Importance of Early Intervention and Public Policies

    Investing in child nutrition is investing in society’s future. Supplementation programs, school feeding, and nutritional education are fundamental to ensure children grow with full cognitive development. Effective public policies addressing malnutrition can break the poverty cycle and open doors to better job opportunities.

    References:

  • Italy Confirms Right to Citizenship by Descent and Overturns Restrictive New Rules

    In a historic decision, Italy’s Constitutional Court rejected the restrictions imposed by Law 74/2025, which limited Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) to children and grandchildren of Italian citizens. The court reaffirmed that citizenship by blood is a birthright, acquired automatically under the law in force at the time of birth, with no generational limits. This ruling opens the door for millions of descendants of Italians worldwide who had been excluded by previous reforms.

    What the Constitutional Court Ruled

    In ruling No. 142/2025, issued on July 31, 2025, Italy’s Constitutional Court addressed three fundamental principles:

    1. Citizenship by Descent is a Birthright: Italian citizenship by blood is acquired automatically at birth, according to the law in effect at that time, with no need for subsequent recognition.
    2. No Generational Limits Before 2025: Before Law 74/2025, there were no generational limits on the transmission of Italian citizenship by descent.
    3. Need for Individual Judicial Review: Restrictions on citizenship must allow for individual legal review, and arbitrary administrative rules are insufficient.

    This decision allows individuals affected by previous reforms, such as Law 74/2025, to legally challenge those restrictions.

    Impact on Diaspora Communities

    Millions of people, especially in Latin America, lost the right to Italian citizenship by descent due to the 2025 reforms. In Brazil, for example, many descendants of Italians who migrated in the 19th and early 20th centuries were excluded. The Constitutional Court’s decision represents a significant victory for these communities, enabling them to claim their Italian citizenship.

    Next Steps and Legal Implications

    Following the Constitutional Court’s ruling, descendants of Italians affected by the 2025 reforms can now seek judicial recognition of their Italian citizenship. The Court also emphasized that significant changes to citizenship rules must occur through proper legislative processes, not arbitrary administrative decisions. This ensures that future reforms respect the rights of citizens and the Italian diaspora.

    References:

  • Gaza: A People Without Land, Food, or Hope

    Pixabay

    While the world watches silently, more than 60,000 Palestinians have already lost their lives in Gaza due to violence, hunger, and forced displacement. The humanitarian tragedy worsens daily, with children dying of hunger and families being expelled from their homes. What is happening in Gaza is a crisis of apocalyptic proportions, and the international community must act now.

    Forced Displacement: Palestinians Losing Their Homes

    The Israeli military offensive in Gaza has displaced approximately 1.9 million Palestinians, about 90% of the region’s population. Many families have been forced to abandon their homes and seek shelter in precarious conditions, facing extreme temperatures and lack of basic resources. The destruction of infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, has further worsened the situation, leaving civilians vulnerable and without access to essential services.

    Uncontrolled Hunger: Children Dying of Starvation

    Food shortages in Gaza have reached alarming levels, with more than 470,000 people facing extreme food insecurity. Children and the elderly are the main victims of this crisis, with reports of deaths from malnutrition in overcrowded hospitals. Lack of access to food and clean water, combined with the destruction of health systems, has created a scenario of widespread hunger and indescribable human suffering.

    Insufficient Humanitarian Responses: Aid Arrives Late and Inadequate

    International organizations warn that the humanitarian aid sent to Gaza is insufficient to meet the population’s needs. Despite efforts by NGOs and UN agencies, the distribution of food and medicine faces significant obstacles due to the imposed blockade and insecurity in affected areas. Lack of safe and continuous access to the region prevents an effective response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

    Call for International Action: The Time to Act is Now

    The international community must act immediately to end the violence, ensure unrestricted humanitarian access, and support efforts for a lasting political solution. It is imperative that Palestinians’ human rights be respected and that concrete measures be taken to alleviate suffering and restore the dignity of a people long living under occupation and repression.

    References:

  • Child Malnutrition: The Deadly Cycle Trapping Generations in Poverty

    Pixabay

    More than just a health issue, child malnutrition is a silent sentence condemning millions of children to a future of misery. Scientific studies and reports from international organizations reveal that lack of essential nutrients in childhood harms not only physical growth but also cognitive development, resulting in adults with lower productivity and greater vulnerability to poverty.

    The Impact of Malnutrition on Child Development

    Malnutrition in childhood severely affects physical and mental development. Research shows that malnourished children have stunted growth, impaired cognitive development, and a higher risk of chronic diseases later in life. Additionally, malnutrition can cause nutritional deficiencies, weakening the immune system and increasing susceptibility to infections.

    Poverty and Malnutrition: A Vicious Cycle

    Poverty is both a cause and a consequence of malnutrition. Families in vulnerable economic situations have limited access to nutritious food, perpetuating malnutrition and maintaining the poverty cycle. Moreover, malnutrition increases healthcare costs, reduces productivity, and slows economic growth, keeping poverty and disease ongoing.

    Long-Term Consequences of Child Malnutrition

    Childhood malnutrition has lasting effects. Studies indicate that malnourished children are at greater risk for chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. Malnutrition also affects school performance and employment opportunities, limiting economic prospects and perpetuating poverty.

    The Need for Immediate and Sustainable Actions

    It is urgent for governments and international organizations to implement effective policies to combat child malnutrition. This includes improving access to nutritious food, promoting healthy feeding practices, and ensuring adequate healthcare for at-risk children. Only with coordinated actions can the poverty cycle be broken, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for upcoming generations.

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