Dr Nathan Peres: A French lesson for New Zealand

Violent protests have a long history in the French Republic, going back well before the student revolt and general strike of May 1968. What sets this month's unrest apart is the scale of the damage. Thousands of shops, businesses and public buildings were hit in a single weekend.

The protesters were not marching against pension reform. They were protesting against the cost of living and the state of French schools.

Dr Oliver Hartwich: A year of hard truths

If one word could sum up 2024, “sobering” might be it. This week’s final economic data for the year – from Treasury’s half-year update to yesterday’s GDP numbers – reads like the opposite of a Christmas wish list.

New Zealanders would be forgiven for feeling worn out. Another severe recession, worsening government books and a current account gap stuck above 6% of GDP – 2024 concludes on some harsh facts.