Raw Politics picks the best and worst of 2024 – and 2025

The US and Israel have approached officials in Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland to discuss resettling Palestinians from Gaza in their territories, according to reports from the Associated Press. While Sudan rejected the proposal and officials from Somalia and Somaliland claimed unawareness of any contacts, the US had previously proposed taking over Gaza for reconstruction, sparking international rejection and fears of permanent displacement among Palestinians. Hamas's raid into Israel triggered the Israeli military assault in Gaza,...

Motion Sickness has won the agency of record for Pizza Hut New Zealand due to their fresh advertising approach and successful brand growth in the country. The agency's partnership with Pizza Hut kicks off with a campaign called "Don't Sleep On It" focused on Cheesy Bites™, highlighting the phenomenon of 'cheese dreams' and utilizing influencers and various media channels for promotion. This win adds to Motion Sickness' recent client growth and recognition, with GM Alex...

In east Auckland, Holly searches for love and connection while contemplating toxic masculinity and its impact on men and society. The patriarchy and its harmful beliefs and behaviors, such as dominance, suppression of emotions, and unrealistic expectations, harm both men and women. By abandoning the term toxic masculinity and raising boys to respect boundaries and consent, we can challenge harmful gender norms and promote a more inclusive and equitable society. Full Article

Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau criticized Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for calling the lack of a city or regional deal in the Wellington region "lame," stating that councils are focused on water reform first. Whanau believes Luxon targeted Wellington because the city did not vote for him, and she emphasized the importance of fairness in addressing criticism of the city's actions and decisions. Despite political pressures, Whanau remains committed to delivering a comprehensive regional deal on...

Christopher Luxon, before becoming Prime Minister, emphasized the importance of India as a growing economic and strategic power. As a business executive at Unilever, Luxon spent time in India, which is now the world's most populous country and fifth largest economy, on track to become the third. Luxon's experience in India has likely shaped his understanding and approach towards the country's significance in global affairs. Full Article

An autobiographical theatre show portrays Jodee Mundy's experience as a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA) and the challenges she faced navigating a world designed for the hearing. Raised in a deaf family, Mundy often served as an intermediary between her family and the hearing world, noticing the disparities in treatment. Through a combination of live performance and video installation, Mundy effectively communicates her story to both deaf and hearing audiences, shedding light on the unique...