CloudOps: Trends and Predictions for 2024

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Newsdesk

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12 February 2024

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CloudOps: Trends and Predictions for 2024

Table of Contents

What Is CloudOps?

CloudOps, or Cloud Operations, refers to the systems, processes and methodologies that organizations employ to operate and manage their cloud-based services efficiently. CloudOps encompasses a range of activities, including application deployment, data security, scalability, and resource allocation. All these activities are coordinated and controlled to ensure smooth and efficient operation of cloud services.

In many ways, CloudOps is the next generation of IT operations. Rather than managing physical servers and infrastructure, CloudOps teams are responsible for virtual environments. These teams must have a deep understanding of cloud platforms, be proficient in automation and DevOps practices, and be able to troubleshoot complex issues in a highly dynamic environment.

The goal of CloudOps is to ensure high availability and reliability of cloud services while optimizing costs. This is achieved through continuous monitoring, automation, and the use of advanced analytics and AI. Without CloudOps, organizations would struggle to maximize the benefits of their cloud investments.

CloudOps – abstract artistic interpretation.

How CloudOps has Evolved with Advances in Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has evolved significantly over the last decade, and so has CloudOps. In the early days of cloud computing, CloudOps was primarily about managing and maintaining Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) offerings. These were largely virtualized versions of traditional IT infrastructure, where the cloud provider managed the physical infrastructure and the customer was responsible for everything else.

As cloud services have become more sophisticated, so have CloudOps practices. With the advent of Platform as a Service (PaaS) and containerized applications, CloudOps has evolved to include tasks such as managing microservices, container orchestrators, and serverless architectures.

Moreover, the rise of multi-cloud and hybrid cloud environments has added another layer of complexity to CloudOps. These environments require a unified approach to cloud management that considers the unique characteristics and capabilities of each cloud platform.

Trends in CloudOps for 2024

As we look ahead, several key trends are shaping the future of CloudOps. These trends reflect the ongoing evolution of cloud computing and the growing maturity of CloudOps practices.

Increased Adoption of Multi-Cloud Strategies

Increasingly, organizations are adopting multi-cloud strategies, using different cloud platforms for different needs. This approach provides several benefits, including reducing vendor lock-in, optimizing costs, and taking advantage of the unique capabilities of each cloud platform.

For CloudOps, this means managing and orchestrating resources across multiple cloud environments. This requires advanced cloud management tools and skills, as well as a deep understanding of each cloud platform. As multi-cloud strategies become the norm, we can expect CloudOps teams to become more proficient in managing multi-cloud environments.

Automation and AI-Driven Cloud Management

Automation has always been a key part of CloudOps, but in the coming years, we can expect it to play an even bigger role. As cloud environments become more complex, automation is key to managing them effectively.

Moreover, we are seeing a growing trend towards AI-driven cloud management. AI and machine learning can help automate routine tasks, predict and prevent issues, and optimize resource utilization. By leveraging AI, CloudOps teams can manage more complex environments with less effort and improve the quality of service.

Serverless Architectures Become Mainstream

Serverless architectures, where the cloud provider manages the compute resources, are becoming increasingly popular. These architectures allow developers to focus on their code, while the cloud provider takes care of everything else.

For CloudOps, this means a shift in focus from managing infrastructure to managing services. This includes tasks such as monitoring performance, managing costs, and ensuring security and compliance. As serverless architectures become mainstream, we can expect CloudOps teams to develop new skills and practices to manage them effectively.

Sustainability in Cloud Operations

Finally, sustainability is becoming a key consideration in CloudOps. As cloud computing continues to grow, so does its environmental impact. Organizations are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, and CloudOps can play a key role in this.

Sustainable CloudOps practices include optimizing resource usage, choosing energy-efficient cloud services, and using renewable energy where possible. As sustainability becomes a priority, we can expect to see more green practices integrated into CloudOps.

Predictions for CloudOps in 2024

Edge Computing Integration

The first prediction for CloudOps in 2024 revolves around the integration of edge computing. Edge computing refers to the practice of processing data near the source where it is generated, rather than relying on a centralized cloud-based system. This approach can dramatically reduce latency, improve performance, and enable real-time data analysis, making it a critical component of modern CloudOps.

As we move toward 2024, we predict an increased focus on the integration of advanced edge computing in CloudOps. This means more sophisticated edge devices, capable of handling computing tasks traditionally reserved for the cloud. This shift will allow organizations to process and analyze data in real-time, providing a competitive edge in a data-driven world.

Edge computing is also expected to play a significant role in Internet of Things (IoT) deployments. As more devices become connected, the demand for edge computing solutions that can process data closer to the source is likely to increase. This will require a significant shift in the CloudOps landscape, with an increased focus on edge computing infrastructure and management.

Growth of AI for Predictive CloudOps

The second prediction for CloudOps in 2024 is the growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for predictive purposes. From predictive maintenance to anomaly detection, AI-based solutions, known as AIOps, are becoming critical for efficient and proactive cloud operations.

By 2024, we predict that AI will become an integral part of CloudOps. This will involve utilizing AI algorithms to predict potential issues before they occur, allowing teams to take proactive measures to prevent downtime.

In addition to predictive maintenance, AI is also expected to play a significant role in resource management within CloudOps. There will be growing use of AI-based systems that can analyze workload patterns and automatically adjust resources to meet demand. This could dramatically improve the efficiency of cloud operations, reducing waste and improving performance.

Expansion of Cloud-Native Technologies

The third prediction for CloudOps in 2024 involves the expansion of cloud-native technologies. Cloud-native refers to the approach of building and running applications that fully exploit the advantages of the cloud computing model. It’s about how applications are created and deployed, not where.

By 2024, we predict that cloud-native technologies will become the standard for CloudOps. This means more organizations adopting containerization, microservices, and serverless architectures. These technologies enable rapid deployment, scalability, and high availability – all critical factors for successful CloudOps.

This shift towards cloud-native technologies will also require a change in mindset. It’s not just about using new technologies; it’s about changing how we design, develop, and manage applications. This will require a new set of skills and a deep understanding of cloud-native principles and practices.

Evolution of CloudOps Roles and Skills

The final prediction for CloudOps in 2024 revolves around the evolution of roles and skills. As CloudOps becomes more complex and sophisticated, the skills required to manage these operations will also evolve.

By 2024, we predict that the role of the CloudOps professional will extend beyond traditional IT operations. It will involve a deep understanding of cloud technologies, as well as the ability to work in cross-functional teams and adapt to rapidly changing environments.

In addition, the skills required for CloudOps will also evolve. This will involve a shift away from traditional IT skills towards more specialized skills such as cloud architecture, data analytics, and cybersecurity. These skills will be critical for managing and optimizing cloud operations, ensuring security and compliance, and driving innovation.

In conclusion, the world of CloudOps is evolving at a rapid pace. As we look towards 2024, it’s clear that advanced edge computing, AI, cloud-native technologies, and evolving roles and skills will shape the landscape. By staying ahead of these trends, organizations can ensure they are well-positioned to harness the full potential of CloudOps.

Author Bio: Gilad David Maayan

Gilad David Maayan is a technology writer who has worked with over 150 technology companies including SAP, Imperva, Samsung NEXT, NetApp and Check Point, producing technical and thought leadership content that elucidates technical solutions for developers and IT leadership. Today he heads Agile SEO, the leading marketing agency in the technology industry.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giladdavidmaayan/

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Navigating the Complexities of Modern Web Development

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Newsdesk

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12 February 2024

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Navigating the Complexities of Modern Web Development

Web development stands as a cornerstone in today’s digital era. Its importance escalates as the world increasingly interacts online. This blog dives into the intricacies of modern web development, unfolding its evolution, technologies, frameworks, and challenges.

Understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone involved in the digital space, whether as a developer, business owner, or curious learner.

Web development – illustrative photo. Image credit: Rawpixel via Pxhere, CC0 Public Domain

Table of Contents

The Evolution of Web Development

Web development began with simple, static HTML pages. Initially, these pages, including those in web development London, served basic information, lacking interactivity or dynamic content. Over time, the demand for more engaging and interactive websites led to significant advancements. Technologies like CSS and JavaScript emerged, transforming the web into a dynamic, interactive platform. This shift marked a new era, where websites became more than information hubs; they turned into engaging, dynamic experiences. This evolution reflects the global nature of web development, transcending regional boundaries and leading to universally accepted standards and practices in the digital world.

Key Technologies in Modern Web Development

Essential technologies in web development include HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and responsive design. HTML structures the web content, while CSS adds styling, creating visually appealing layouts. JavaScript introduces interactivity, allowing for dynamic content manipulation. Responsive design ensures websites adapt seamlessly to different screen sizes, essential in a mobile-dominated world. Mastery of these technologies is fundamental for creating effective and engaging web applications.

Front-End vs. Back-End Development

In web development, front-end and back-end are two key areas. Front-end development focuses on what users interact with; it involves HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the visual interface. Back-end development, on the other hand, deals with the server-side, involving databases and server logic. It ensures that the data needed by the front-end is delivered correctly. Both areas work in tandem to create functional, user-friendly websites.

Responsive Web Design

Responsive web design is crucial in today’s multi-device world. It ensures websites adapt to various screen sizes, offering an optimal experience. This design method employs flexible layouts, images, and CSS media queries. As smartphones and tablets become ubiquitous, responsive design has shifted from a luxury to a necessity. It’s central to engaging a broader audience and enhancing user experience. In a digital age where user engagement hinges on accessibility, responsive design plays a key role in ensuring content is universally readable and aesthetically pleasing, regardless of the device used.

Web Development Frameworks

Frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js are crucial in modern web development. They provide standard, pre-written code, enabling developers to build applications more efficiently. These frameworks offer a structured way to create dynamic web pages and simplify tasks like DOM manipulation. By using them, developers enhance productivity, ensure code consistency, and reduce development time. They also bring in benefits like component reuse, state management, and easier integration with other technologies. Frameworks are more than tools; they are ecosystems that support scalable, maintainable, and high-quality web application development.

Web Development Tools

Effective web development relies on the right tools. Text editors like Visual Studio Code and Sublime Text enhance coding, while version control systems like Git manage code changes. Browser developer tools are crucial for debugging and optimizing web applications. These tools collectively streamline development, enabling efficient building, testing, and deploying. They also foster collaboration among teams, improve code quality, and facilitate continuous integration and delivery. In the rapidly evolving web development landscape, leveraging these tools is key to staying competitive and delivering robust, user-centric web solutions.

Challenges in Modern Web Development

Web developers today face various challenges. Browser compatibility remains a significant issue, as developers must ensure their websites function across different browsers. Security is another major concern, with the need to protect data from increasing cyber threats. Performance optimization is also crucial, as users expect fast-loading, responsive websites. Addressing these challenges is key to successful web development in the modern digital landscape.

Conclusion and Future Trends

Web development is an ever-evolving field. This blog has covered key aspects like technologies, frameworks, and challenges. Staying updated with the latest trends and advancements is vital for developers. As we move forward, we can expect continued innovation, with new tools and technologies emerging to meet the ever-growing demands of the digital world.

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Canonization of Mama Antula, Argentina’s First Saint Woman Unites Leaders of Diverse Religions

By

Juan Sanchez Gil

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11 February 2024

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In an unprecedented historic event, leaders of different religions gathered in an act of faith and brotherhood to witness and celebrate the canonization of the first Argentinean saint, Saint Mama Antula. This event, marked by hope and emotion, was attended by Gustavo Guillermé, President of the World Congress of Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue “A Path to Peace”, who led a delegation of prominent figures from different faiths, demonstrating the strength of interreligious dialogue and mutual respect.

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The ceremony, which of course was attended by high-level political personalities such as Javier Milei, was attended by a multitude of bishops and archbishops, including those from Argentina, such as Archbishop Alberto Bochatey, Executive Secretary of the Argentine Episcopal Conference; Archbishop Garcia Cuerva of Buenos Aires; and Archbishop Vicente Bokalic of Santiago del Estero, among others.

Among the ecclesiastical authorities of other religions were Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Archbishop Garcia Cuerva, Miguel Steuermann, President of the Jewish-Muslim Confraternity and Director of Radio Jai, as well as Mr. Iván Arjona Pelado, Representative of the Church of Scientology to the European Union and the United Nations; Gustavo Libardi, President of the same church in Argentina, who participated in the celebration with “joy and rejoicing to have one more woman like Saint Mama Antula, who is taken as a model among other things for the courage and integrity she showed in continuing to exercise and guarantee to others their right to religious freedom despite the fact that the times proscribed it” said Arjona Pelado in a heartfelt statement.

The canonization of Mama Antula not only marks a milestone in Argentina’s religious history, but also symbolizes a moment of unity as leaders from diverse spiritual traditions come together to honor the life and legacy of a woman whose faith and dedication left an indelible mark on the heart of her nation.

Gustavo Guillermé, also from Argentina, who had the opportunity to speak briefly with Javier Milei, expressed his honor and satisfaction for participating in this event, highlighting the importance of inclusion and the joint work of all religions to promote peace, justice and equal opportunities in a society that deeply longs for brotherhood and spirituality.

This event, which was broadcast live thanks to Vatican News, is a powerful reminder of how faith can transcend differences and unite people around common values and shared aspirations. The canonization of Argentina’s first saint thus becomes a “symbol of hope and a call to action for leaders and faithful of all faiths to work together to build a more just and compassionate world,” commented Libardi.

For more than two decades, the figure of Jorge Bergoglio has been synonymous with effort and dedication in the field of interreligious dialogue. We can highlight among others his work as Cardinal of Buenos Aires and currently as His Holiness Pope Francis. His work, rooted in the principles of brotherhood and spirituality, has tirelessly sought to promote peace, justice and equal opportunities in a society that yearns for unity and social justice.

From his days as Cardinal Primate in Buenos Aires, Bergoglio demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the inclusion of more and more religions in constructive dialogue, a legacy that continues to enrich his pontificate and from which many should take example. Under his leadership, the inclusion of diverse religious leaders at Mama Antula’s canonization ceremony is a clear reflection of his mission to foster interfaith harmony and effective action toward peace and social justice.

Cintia y Nunzia Canonization of Mama Antula, Argentina's First Saint Woman Unites Leaders of Diverse Religions

Gustavo Guillermé, moved to have been able to participate in the celebration and the opening, declared that “In these times, the teachings and example of His Holiness Pope Francis resonate with greater force, urging us to follow in his footsteps in the work for peace, human dignity and religious freedom. His trajectory inspires me in particular to continue to unite religious communities to work for the construction of a more just and fraternal world, where respect, understanding, and the much-needed joint action of all religions prevail.”

As part of the preparatory celebrations, there was a presentation organized by Federico Wals and Gustavo Silva, and moderated by Alessandro Gisotti, deputy editorial director of the Vatican media, of the book in Spanish “Mama Antula, la fe de una mujer sin límites” on the figure of Mama Antula, which included the presence and interviews with its authors Cintia Suarez and Nunzia Locatelli, who with devotion told their experiences and were also very excited to attend the canonization ceremony.

Other important political and institutional personalities in attendance were the President of Argentina Javier Milei, accompanied by Karina Milei, Secretary General of the Presidency, the Chancellor Diana Mondino and the Minister of the Interior Guillermo Francos. For the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, the Head of Government Jorge Macri, his wife and the General Director of Worship, Maria del Pilar Bosca Chillida. For the Province of Santiago del Estero, its Governor Dr. Gerardo Zamora and his wife, National Senator Dr. Claudia Ledesma Abdala de Zamora, who supported the canonization and named Saint Mama Antula Patroness of Santiago del Estero. Also the provincial deputy of Somos Vida, for the province of Santa Fe, Amalia Granata.

Presidential Election in Russia: Candidates and the Inevitable Victory of Vladimir Putin

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EuropeanTimes

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10 February 2024

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Vladimir Putin — Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

As Russia prepares for the next presidential election, all eyes are on the candidates vying for the country’s highest office. Although the outcome seems inevitable: the re-election of incumbent President Vladimir Putin.

Scheduled between Friday, March 15 and Sunday, March 17, Russian voters are poised to cast their ballots amid ongoing tensions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine, which Russia ignited two years prior. Despite the semblance of a democratic process, the outcome appears predetermined, with Putin poised to secure a fifth term in office.

While eight candidates are officially in the running, the systemic opposition tolerated by the Kremlin is unlikely to pose a significant challenge. Five parties, including United Russia, the Liberal-Democratic Party, the Communist Party, New People, and Just Russia, have put forward candidates without the need for citizens’ signatures. Meanwhile, other political figures faced stringent requirements, such as collecting between 100,000 and 105,000 signatures from citizens to stand for election.

Leading the pack is Vladimir Putin, running as an independent candidate. His campaign, seemingly a mere formality, boasts an overwhelming number of signatures, ensuring his place on the ballot. At 71 years old, Putin is poised to extend his reign until 2030, if not beyond, having secured a landslide victory with 76.7% of the vote in 2018.

Challenging Putin are candidates like Leonid Sloutsky of the Liberal Democratic Party, who aligns closely with the President’s nationalist agenda, and Nikolai Kharitonov of the Communist Party, whose lackluster candidacy mirrors his party’s tacit support for Kremlin policies.

Meanwhile, Vladislav Davankov of New People offers a youthful alternative, advocating for economic reforms and modernization while maintaining an ambiguous stance on the conflict in Ukraine.

However, the absence of prominent figures like Grigori Yavlinski and the rejection of candidates like journalist Ekaterina Dountsova underscore the limited scope of genuine opposition in Russian politics.

Notably absent from the electoral fray is anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny, imprisoned and barred from running, yet still a potent symbol of resistance against Putin’s regime.

As the presidential election unfolds, it is clear that Putin’s victory is all but assured. Despite superficial trappings of democracy, the Kremlin’s grip on power remains unchallenged, leaving little room for genuine political competition. For Russian citizens, the election serves as a stark reminder of the entrenched nature of authoritarian rule and the limited prospects for meaningful change.

Dolphins vs. humans

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Newsroom

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10 February 2024

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Dolphins have a cortex (cerebral cortex, gray matter) more developed than humans.

They have self-awareness, complex thought streams, and give themselves unique personal names.

Dolphins rescue drowning people.

They communicate, talk, sing. There is no hierarchy with them.

They are very emotional and compassionate.

Their vision is equally good under water.

Dolphins never sleep. One half of their brain is always awake, and after two hours the activity switches to the other half.

Dolphins are the only animal species that develops a natural form of type 2 diabetes.

Males collect algae, from which they make a bouquet of flowers and bring it to their beloved female.

Dolphins have the ability to recognize, remember and solve problems, making them one of the most intelligent creatures on the planet.

Illustrative Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cute-dolphine-underwater-64219/

Scientists with a new plan to cool the Earth by blocking the Sun

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Newsroom

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9 February 2024

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Scientists with a new plan to cool the Earth by blocking the Sun — Photo: Planetary Sunshade Foundation

Scientists are exploring an idea that could save our planet from global warming by blocking the sun: a “giant umbrella” place in space to block out some of the sun’s light.

Led by Yoram Rozen and his team at the Asher Space Research Institute and Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, the plan involves constructing a prototype to demonstrate the feasibility of the concept.

For the idea to work, the space shield would have to span an area of roughly one million square miles, or about the size of Argentina. Because this is too large a structure to launch into space with a single rocket, Rosen and his team propose a scheme in which a swarm of smaller “umbrellas” are launched into space, where they will work in sync.

“We can show the world, ‘Look, there’s a solution that works, take it, scale it up,'” says Rosen.

If we block between one and two percent of our star’s radiation, we will neutralize the effects of global warming, scientists say. Deploying “umbrellas” in space may be cheaper in the long enough term than spraying aerosols into the atmosphere.

Last year, a team of scientists from Harvard and the University of Utah explored the idea of placing dust in a “Lagrange point” between the Sun and Earth to combat climate change.

Not everyone agrees with the idea. According to critics, deploying a “canopy” in space would be an incredibly expensive and unrealistic project, especially given the pace at which global warming is accelerating. In addition, the canvas will be exposed to impacts from micrometeors. It is not known how stable the structure will be. As for the swarm concept, it is more realistic, but again quite expensive.

Securing adequate funding, estimated between $10 to $20 million, is crucial for developing and testing the prototype to validate the viability of the concept.

Demonstrating the feasibility of innovative approaches like sunshade deployment underscores the role of science and technology in addressing pressing global challenges.

The Atatürk Cultural Center in Istanbul dressed in ultra-modern architecture and design

By

Newsroom

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9 February 2024

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If Istanbul has a special magic, it is the magic of the eclectic layers of architecture, people, coexistence, religions and even urban poetry.

While walking through the small streets, you can see at the same time a synagogue, a Catholic church, a black cat, a cocktail bar where Hemingway once stayed, as well as the latest modernist creations of world architecture.

One of the most interesting and multifunctional buildings of the city is definitely the Atatürk Cultural Center in the very heart of Istanbul on the legendary Taksim Square.

Atatürk Kültür Merkezi, as it was originally called, is probably also one of the most impressive cultural buildings in Europe.

In addition, she has an equally interesting story.

According to the regulation plan of Istanbul, drawn up by the French architect and city planner Henri Prost between 1936-1937, Topçu Kışlası (Artillery Barracks) and the nearby cemeteries will be turned into a park, and the opera house will be officially opened on Taksim Square.

At Prost’s suggestion, French architect Auguste Perre arrived in Istanbul to oversee the opera project, but it could never be completed due to the deepening World War II.

Later, in 1946, the building also could not be completed due to lack of funds. The Opera House was officially opened on April 12, 1969, with the design of the chief architect Hayati Tabanlaoglu, to stage the plays of the State Opera and Ballet and the State Theaters.

It was later partially damaged by a fire in 1970 that broke out on stage during a production of Arthur Miller’s play Witch Hunt.

In the late 1970s, the building was definitively the city’s most modern and elite cultural center in which performing arts could be presented – it housed not only various spaces such as halls and stages on which productions could be adapted and operas, but the building carried the spirit of modernity because of its functionality. Even then there were elevators, mechanized systems, huge capacity in places.

Until the year 2000, the building functioned in this form, but gradually its qualities were lost, as time had its influence and a large part of its functionalities were amortized.

Thus, a project has been announced to the Turkish public, which aims to preserve the appearance and structure of the building, but to renovate it and make it a worthy modern cultural and architectural landmark. This project was launched alongside the European Capital of Culture 2010.

In 2017, Erdogan announced that the project would be completely rebuilt in a new building in Taksim Square.

The Atatürk Cultural Center will finally open its doors to visitors with a ceremony on October 29, 2021, and it includes the following elements: 2,040-seat opera house, 781-seat theater hall, gallery, multi-purpose hall, children’s art center, music platform, studio for music recordings, a specialist library focusing mainly on architecture, design and fashion, and cinema.

The building’s library is stunningly beautiful and one of those places where you’d spend hours and nights just discovering new and new treasures.

It contains limited editions for art, design, fashion and cinema. A must-see is also the music museum, which is dedicated to the musical traditions of Turkey and the specific instruments of the region’s music, but also to the greatest Turkish composers, conductors, opera singers, ballerinas and artists who have toured in within different eras in this emblematic building for Istanbul.

The leading architectural firm that drove the project is Tabanlıoğlu Architecture/ Desmus, one of the leading architectural studios in Turkey, who also designed the National Theater building in Lagos, Nigeria, as well as halls and cultural centers in Ankara and other cities in Turkey.

New plant breeding techniques to boost resilience of food system

By

European Parliament

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9 February 2024

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New plant breeding techniques to boost resilience of food system — Photo de Sasun Bughdaryan sur Unsplash

Table of Contents

The EU wants to to boost resilience of food system and reduce the need for pesticides with new rules on plant breeding techniques.

Plant breeding is an ancient practice used to create new plant varieties from existing varieties to obtain qualities such as higher yields, enhanced nutrition or better resistance to disease.

Nowadays, thanks to advances in biotechnology, new plant varieties can be developed faster and in a more precise manner by editing their genetic structure.

In the EU, all genetically modified organisms (GMOs) currently fall under the GMO legislation from 2001. However, plant-breeding techniques have evolved greatly over the last two decades. New genomic techniques (NGTs) allow more targeted, precise and faster results than more traditional methods.

What are new genomic techniques?

New genomic techniques are ways to breed plants by introducing specific changes to the DNA.

In many cases, these techniques do not require the use of foreign genetic material from species that could not naturally crossbreed. This means that similar results could be achieved via traditional methods, such as hybridisation, but the process would take much longer.

NGTs could help to develop new plants that are more resilient to drought or other climate extremes or that require fewer fertilisers or pesticides.

GMOs in the EU

GMOs are organisms with genes that have been altered in a way that could not naturally occur through breeding, often by using the genome of another species.

Before any GMO product can be placed on the EU market, it needs to go through a very high-level safety check. There are also strict rules on their authorisation, risk assessment, labelling and traceability.

New EU rules

In July 2023, the European Commission proposed a new regulation on plants produced by certain new genomic techniques. The proposal would allow an easier authorisation for those NGT plants that are considered equivalent to conventional plants. No foreign genetic material from a species not able to naturally crossbreed is used to obtain these NGT plants.

Other NGT plants would still have to follow stricter requirements similar to those under the current GMO rules.

NGT plants would remain prohibited in organic production and their seeds would need to be clearly labelled to ensure farmers know what they are growing.

Parliament’s position

Parliament adopted its position on the Commission proposal on 7 February 2024. MEPs supported the new rules and agreed that the NGT plants that are comparable to naturally occurring varieties should be exempted from the strict requirements of the GMO legislation.

However, MEPs want to ensure transparency by continuing mandatory labelling for all NGT plants.

To avoid legal uncertainties and to make sure farmers do not become too dependent on big seed companies, MEPs want to ban all patents for NGT plants.

Parliament is now ready to start negotiations on the new law with EU governments.

Ensuring euro money transfers arrive within ten seconds

By

European Parliament

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8 February 2024

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Ensuring euro money transfers arrive within ten seconds — Retail clients and businesses will get their money instantly, safely and with no additional charges.

On Wednesday, MEPs adopted new rules to ensure that euro money transfers arrive immediately into the bank accounts of retail customers and businesses across the EU.

Ever been annoyed that you have to wait for days for bank payments to come through? Good news: now there are faster options allowing you to transfer and receive money in the blink of an eye.

Table of Contents

The benefits of instant payments

Instant payments allow people and businesses to pay and receive payments more conveniently and efficiently.

With instant payments, people can easily split a restaurant bill with friends and receive funds immediately.

Businesses, especially small and medium-sized companies, can exert more control over their cash flow. In addition, by using instant payments, merchants reduce their operational costs and can provide a better service, for example by offering instant refunds.

Public institutions can benefit from improved management of their cash flo just like businesses do. With instant payments, NGOs and charities can make use of contributions more quickly. Banks can use instant payments as a springboard to develop innovative financial services and strengthen their competitive position.

The situation in the EU

Only 11% of all euro credit transfers in the EU were executed within seconds at the beginning of 2022. Nearly €200 billion are locked in transit in the financial system on any given day.

At the same time, the availability of instant payments and related fees vary strongly across EU countries.

Agreement on instant payments

In October 2022, the European Commission came up with a legislative proposal to make instant payments in euros available to all people and businesses holding a bank account in the EU as well as in Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein. In November 2023, European Parliament negotiators struck a deal with the Council on the final legislative text.

According to the agreed text:

An instant credit transfer should be executed regardless of the day or hour and immediately processed within 10 seconds with the person making the payment getting a receipt just as quickly
A payment service provider should immediately convert the amount of transaction into euros, if the payment is submitted from an account that is not denominated in euros
Payment service providers should have robust and up-to-date fraud detection and take measures to prevent a transfer being sent to the wrong person
Payment service providers must also introduce extra measures to prevent criminal activities such as money laundering or terrorist financing
Instant payments should not cost more than traditional transactions in euros
EU countries that don’t use the euro will also have to apply the rules, but after a longer transition period

In February 2024, Parliament approved the legislation. Once the Council approves the text, it will be ready to enter into force.

The legislation is linked to a range of other initiatives in the economic field that aim to ensure that the EU is in step with technological advancements: serving people and businesses, and protecting our financial system and economies from organised crime. These initiatives cover instant payments, payment services, crypto-assets, and anti-money laundering.

Collaborative Efforts of Indigenous and Christian Communities Promote Conservation of Sacred Forests in India

By

Guest Author

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8 February 2024

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Collaborative Efforts of Indigenous and Christian Communities Promote Conservation of Sacred Forests in India — By Ritika74 © BY-SA 4.0 - Sacred-forest-mawphlang-meghalaya. This forest in the East Khasi hills is said to be protected by a religious deity and nobody must take anything out of the forest. There are many medicinal plants here, including a tree whose bark can supposedly cure cancer.

By Geoffrey Peters

In the heart of one of India’s ancient and most highly esteemed sacred forests, individuals from indigenous communities have joined forces with Christians to advocate for the preservation of what they consider to be priceless and holy woodland areas.

Named after the village where it is located—Mawphlang—the forest lies in the lush Khasi Hills in the northeastern Indian state of Meghalaya, not far from India’s border with China. Known variously as “Nature’s Museum” and “abode of clouds,” Mawphlang means “moss-covered stone” in the local Khasi language and is probably the most famous of the 125 sacred forests in the state.

Believed to be the abode of a native deity that protects village inhabitants from harm, Mawphlang is a dense, biodiverse 193-acre mecca for medicinal plants, mushrooms, birds and insects. For centuries, individuals have visited sacred groves such as Mawphlang to pray and perform animal sacrifices to the deities they believe inhabit these spaces. Any act of desecration is strictly forbidden; even the simple act of picking a flower or leaf is prohibited in most forests.

“Here, communication between man and God takes place,” Tambor Lyngdoh, a member of the ancestral lineage of the local priestly clan that consecrated the Mawphlang forest, told the Associated Press in a January 17 feature story. “Our forefathers set aside these groves and forests to signify the harmony between man and nature.”

But lately, climate change, pollution and deforestation have taken their toll on sacred forests such as Mawphlang. The indigenous population’s conversion to Christianity, initiated during the 19th century under British colonial rule, has also had an impact on the local eco-culture.

According to H.H. Morhmen, an environmentalist and retired Unitarian minister, those who converted to Christianity lost their spiritual ties to the forests and traditional beliefs. “They viewed their new religion as the light and these rituals as darkness, as pagan or even evil,” the AP article quoted Mohrmen as saying.

Over the past few years, environmentalists collaborating with indigenous and Christian communities, along with government agencies, have played a crucial role in disseminating information about the importance of caring for the forests. The ecosystems are deemed invaluable for the region’s ecological balance and biodiversity.

“We’re now finding that even in places where people have converted to Christianity, they are taking care of the forests,” Mohrmen said.

Jaintia Hills, an area of some 500 households, is a typical example. According to Heimonmi Shylla, the region’s headman, who is also a deacon, nearly every resident is Presbyterian, Catholic or a member of the Church of God.

“I don’t consider the forest holy,” he told the AP. “But I have great reverence for it.”

Another Christian resident of Jaintia Hills, Petros Pyrtuh, regularly ventures into a sacred forest near his village along with his 6-year-old son in the hope of inculcating in him a sense of reverence and respect for the woodlands. “In our generation, we don’t believe it is the dwelling place of the gods,” Pyrtuh said. “But we continue with the tradition of protecting the forest because our ancestors have told us not to defile the forest.”

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In the heart of one of India’s ancient and most highly esteemed sacred forests, individuals from indigenous communities have joined forces with Christians to advocate for the preservation of what they consider to be priceless and holy woodland areas.

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