In post–World Cup South Africa, the party's over: massive strikes and rapid erosion of the World Cup spirit speak to a serious political crisis facing scandal-plagued President Jacob Zuma.

Don't tune in; it's not important.

For his article China in the Driver's Seat, Robert Dreyfuss talked to dozens of progressive academics, journalists and policy-makers about the rise of the new economic superpower. Here, find links to excerpts from interviews with Carolyn Bartholomew, Andy Stern, James Galbraith, and more.

Court records filed in the Alex Sanchez case and reviewed by The Nation show federal prosecutors have concealed their use of notorious gang leaders as informants while applying for surveillance permits.

An education begun in the shadow of the Brandenburg Gate.

Corruption scandals, a threatened gag order on journalists and investigators, and persistent allegations of Mafia ties—not to mention the long recession—have weakened Italy’s prime minister.

How the oil company helped destroy democracy in Iran.

Ret. Col. Ann Wright speaks from aboard the Gaza Freedom Flotilla, heading to Gaza with aid and solidarity.

Russia scholar Stephen Cohen talks to the Journal of International Affairs about re-democratization and the modernization debate.

The bailout may stanch the bleeding for now, but if the EU does not strengthen economic governance and growth and work toward further political integration, new crises will erupt.