Petitions platform driving social change
Multiple US towns have opposed proposed AI-era data centres, citing water use, power demands, noise and local impacts. Developers and backers, including Kevin O'Leary, have defended projects and alleged foreign-directed misinformation campaigns; those claims face denials from named groups. Councils in Coachella and Nottingham have paused proposals and developers have retreated or faced legal review.
The Justice Ministry has designated multiple Russian figures and offices as “foreign agents,” a move that restricts activity and imposes disclaimers on public appearances. The actions come after charges and new designations tied to alleged foreign influence, as authorities emphasize safeguarding state interests.
The governor of Ardahan province has been removed by presidential decree on 17 July. Critics say he spent too much time on social media and cycling, while supporters highlight his work promoting sports and youth programs. A petition to reinstate him has gathered over 10,000 signatures.
Amanda Knox’s Edinburgh Fringe show Cartwheel has drawn renewed attention and protest after Stephanie Kercher criticised it as normalising violence against women. Knox defends the piece as a personal, motherhood-focused account of surviving wrongful imprisonment. Fringe organisers emphasise freedom of expression, while petitions call for cancellation.
In Scotland, Nicola’s Law seeks to make women’s health education mandatory for NHS staff after Nicola Thyne’s death from endometriosis-related complications. Campaigners say comprehensive training could curb dismissive care and reduce delays in treatment.