Hello, good morning,

I hope you are in good spirits and good health.

Autumn has arrived gently, the leaves are starting to change color, and the days are growing shorter. And it is precisely now, when you crave a good book and a warm corner, that I come to talk to you about libraries.

I confess: for a long time, I too thought a library was a quiet place, filled with bookshelves and someone telling us to “shh!”. Well, think again. Today’s municipal libraries are anything but that.

Right around us, you can check out a ukulele, a telescope, an electric cooker, or a museum pass. You can record a podcast, 3D print an object, learn how to cook, digitize old VHS wedding tapes, or even get free legal advice. In Hamilton, there is a seed library; in Alliston, they keep the letters and eyeglasses of Sir Frederick Banting, the “father” of insulin.

And what about technology? Libraries didn’t run away from Artificial Intelligence; they embraced it. They teach how to use it wisely, lend laptops and internet access to those who don’t have it at home, and help older generations overcome their fear of smartphones. In Mississauga, more than half of those using these services say the library is the only place where they have access to this technology. In Toronto, 83% of those who used them improved their employability. Now that is a true public service.

For families, it is a real treasure. And at a time when everything costs an arm and a leg, a free treasure! Storytime for babies, coding and robotics clubs, youth spaces with snacks included, games, movies, and streaming platforms—all with a simple card. In Brampton, just living in Ontario is enough to get one without paying a single cent.

But perhaps the most important thing isn’t what you take home. It’s what you find inside: a place where no one forces you to buy anything, where a grandfather, a granddaughter, and a neighbor who just arrived in Canada sit at the same table. In times of screens, loneliness, and misinformation, that is no small thing.

So, I leave you with a challenge: if you haven’t stepped into a library in a few years, pay one a visit. Take the kids, take your parents, take your curiosity. I guarantee you’ll leave surprised—and, who knows, maybe with a ukulele under your arm.

It is what it is, and it will always be worth what it’s worth.

Take care and have a wonderful weekend,

See you soon,

Cristina DaCosta/MS

Today, the traditional image of a library with thousands of books, high shelves filled with history and stories, is far removed from reality. In fact, this is a reductive view, because the function of this type of public space is now far more comprehensive. Especially in a multicultural and fast-growing city like Toronto, where free public spaces are increasingly rare, the Toronto Public Library (TPL) has become a true meeting point filled with past, present, and future. Indeed, any regular user can attest that, today, a library is essentially bursting with life.

The numbers speak for themselves. With 100 branches spread across the city, TPL is the largest and busiest public library system in North America. In the last year alone, it welcomed over 14 million in-person visits, and eight in ten Toronto residents use the library—whether to study, work, look for a job, learn something new, or simply have a welcoming place to be.

But what can actually be found in a library today? Far more than one might imagine. Beyond books—both physical and digital—TPL offers free internet access and computers, training in digital skills and Artificial Intelligence, 3D printers, recording studios, and even a musical instrument lending library. There are dedicated spaces for children and teenagers, support for job seekers and small businesses, and initiatives that help residents participate in an informed way in the city’s democratic life.

In an era marked by loneliness, polarization, and misinformation, the library also assumes an essential civic role: bringing people together, promoting access to trusted information, and building bridges between different perspectives.

We spoke with Toronto’s City Librarian, Moe Hosseini-Ara, to understand how the library has reinvented itself, what impact it has on the lives of those who visit, and what might surprise those who haven’t been back in a while.

Milénio Stadium: For those who don’t know, how would you describe the Toronto Public Library and the role it plays in city life today?

Moe Hosseini-Ara: Eight in ten Toronto residents use their library as a place to work or study, borrow a book, attend a program, look for a job, develop skills, or simply to have somewhere to go.

As the city grows, so does the need for shared spaces, trusted information, and human connection. The Toronto Public Library (TPL) has become essential civic infrastructure.

TPL connects people to resources and opportunities through a trusted network of 100 branches, expert staff, and an extensive offering of online services. We are the largest and busiest public library system in North America.

MS: What role do TPL branches play as community gathering spaces?

MHA: TPL offers something increasingly rare: a free, welcoming public space where no purchase is required.

Our 100 branches across the city are vital community hubs that support individual and community resilience.

In the last year alone, TPL branches recorded over 14 million in-person visits, and our website (tpl.ca) had more than 32 million visits.

MS: In a fast-changing world, especially with the rise of Artificial Intelligence, how does TPL help residents keep up with these changes?

MHA: From early literacy to Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, TPL offers free lifelong learning opportunities for every stage of life, helping Toronto residents build the knowledge, digital skills, and confidence needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world, while helping close the digital divide.

The impact is real: 83% of users who accessed TPL’s technology services reported improving their employable skills or achieving career goals.

MS: We live in times marked by loneliness, polarization, and misinformation. What contribution can a public library make to bring people closer together and strengthen democratic life?

MHA: In an era of rising isolation, loneliness, and polarization, TPL is the gathering spot where Toronto residents come together, connect with one another, learn to combat misinformation, and engage with perspectives beyond their own.

This is a role valued by the public: 93% of Toronto residents agree that public libraries are an important resource for the community.

MS: Many people still associate libraries solely with books. Which TPL services tend to surprise those who discover them for the first time?

MHA: There are services people might not realize we offer… while books, both physical and digital, remain our core foundation, our free services go far beyond that. Many people may not know that we offer:

• Free internet access, computers, and printers;
• Help with tech and digital literacy, including AI upskilling (note: we have an AI policy that guides our staff toward the safe, responsible, ethical, and effective use of AI tools);
• Virtual interview rooms for job seekers, 3D printers, Adobe Creative Suite, and recording studios;
• Musical Instrument Lending Library;
• Programs for children, English as a Second Language (ESL) learners, job seekers, and small businesses;
• After-school clubs for children, featuring free activities like hands-on projects, coding, and robotics workshops;
• Youth Hubs—welcoming spaces for teenagers after school and during the summer, always staffed with support teams. Free, nutritious daily snacks are provided;
• We are also gearing up for the municipal election with our Celebrate Democracy initiative, which provides reliable, accessible resources to help residents understand key issues, learn about candidates, and actively participate in the process;
• Our popular tpl:map passes, which offer free access to Toronto’s arts, cultural experiences, and attractions.

The services mentioned here are just a small sample. Anyone who hasn’t visited the library in a while might be surprised by everything they will discover!

Madalena Balça/MS

Fifteen years of history, dedication, and passion for soccer. That is how the Sporting FC Academy of Toronto celebrated its 15th anniversary last Saturday (19), at a gala that brought together athletes, families, coaches, directors, guests visiting from Portugal, and the entire community.

Over these 15 years, the Academy has been much more than a space dedicated to soccer. It has been a place of growth, friendship, and development, where young people from diverse backgrounds learn values like respect, discipline, sportsmanship, and community spirit, both on and off the pitch.

During the Sporting FC Academy of Toronto’s 15th-anniversary ceremony, President Paulo Pereira highlighted the journey taken over a decade and a half and recognized the contributions of everyone who helped build and grow the project.

“Celebrating 15 years means celebrating the hard work, dedication, and trust of so many people who believed in this project from the very beginning. We must express our gratitude to the athletes, families, coaches, staff, sponsors, and community partners who have been part of this journey,” he stated.

Paulo Pereira also pointed out future challenges, noting that acquiring a new soccer stadium is among the board’s main goals. “After the forced closure of Brock Stadium, we realized even more how crucial it is to have our own home and better facilities for our youth,” he explained.

The president further emphasized that achieving this goal requires support from the community, school boards, and different levels of government, stressing that “the future of the Academy relies on creating more opportunities for young people through soccer.”

Visiting from Portugal, André Lourenço and Filipe Costa—technical coordinators for youth development at Sporting Clube de Portugal, the Academy’s parent club—were in attendance to share their expertise and vision regarding young athlete development. Both coaches praised the work being done in Toronto and expressed pride in the players’ progress, reinforcing the importance of an education built on strong values, methodology, and a passion for soccer.

Recognition and Opportunities

A key highlight was once again the Christopher McCurbin-Parkin Award, presented to Sebastian Pedrosa. For the first time, the Founders Scholarship Award was also presented, awarded to Michael Fonseca, reinforcing the Academy’s commitment to supporting youth development both on and off the field.

Currently, the Sporting FC Academy of Toronto boasts around 250 athletes, 14 coaches, three Technical Leads, and an Operations Director.

The evening, featuring entertainment by Tuga Nights, was filled with emotion and celebration. Together, athletes, families, coaches, and guests celebrated 15 years of history while looking ahead to the future.

Because at the Sporting FC Academy of Toronto, they don’t just develop athletes: they shape individuals, discover talent, and instill values for life.

Francisco Pegado/MS

The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.

With 18 libraries spread across the city, including the renovated Hazel McCallion Central Library, Mississauga offers its residents multiple free services that are essential in building a better-informed community. Beyond providing traditional access to reading material, today’s libraries allow visitors to borrow musical instruments, sports kits, carbon dioxide detectors, or museum passes. It is also possible to 3D print an object, record a song, cook in a community kitchen, or take home a laptop and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

In a diverse and fast-growing city like Mississauga, the public library has transformed into a true community hub: a place where people of all ages and backgrounds gather to study, learn, create, and socialize without having to pay a dime. In a climate where the cost of living weighs heavily on so many family budgets, the library provides free services that would otherwise be inaccessible to many—from streaming platforms and online courses to digital newspapers and creative software tools.

Technology has been a major priority. According to a recent survey, more than half of the users of the library’s tech services state that this is their only way to access these tools, highlighting the vital role the institution plays in bridging the digital divide.

However, the library does not stop at offering resources. It also provides guidance, family programs, partnerships with community organizations, and social spaces that help combat social isolation.

To better understand how the library has reinvented itself and what it has to offer families and the broader community, we spoke with Irene McCutcheon, Senior Communications Advisor for the City of Mississauga.

Milénio Stadium: Beyond borrowing books, what services does the library currently offer that the public might not be aware of? Which of these services has grown the most in recent years?

Irene McCutcheon: Many residents might be surprised to discover the variety of items they can borrow from the Mississauga Library of Things, such as game and sports kits, carbon dioxide detectors, musical instruments, park passes, and museum passes. One of the areas of largest growth in recent years has been the technology available to patrons—such as portable Wi-Fi hotspots, printers, photocopiers, and makerspaces equipped with 3D printers and music recording equipment. And for those looking to save money, residents can check out movies and video games, as well as access free streaming services with their library card.

MS: If you had to describe the public library to someone who only associates it with “a place for books,” how would you describe it?

IM: A public library is so much more than books on shelves. It is a community hub where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to socialize, study, and explore. It is a welcoming space where residents can participate in programs for all ages, study, meet up, and discover new interests. It is one of the few spaces where everyone is welcome, regardless of age, background, or abilities, at no cost at all.

MS: What concrete changes have you made recently to keep up with technological evolution (such as Artificial Intelligence)? Are there concerns or red lines in this process?

IM: The library has made significant investments in technology to support how residents learn, create, and access information. We provide free Wi-Fi access, laptop and tablet loans, self-service checkout and return systems, and makerspaces equipped with various technologies, like 3D printing and sewing machines. These services give residents access to the technology they need at a low cost. In fact, a recent user survey revealed that 56% of respondents who use these library services say it is their only way to access this technology. As technology evolves, the library’s focus remains on providing access to learning and skill development so that patrons can use these tools effectively.

MS: In an era when information is just a click away, what do you do to ensure people still have reasons to visit the library, either in person or online? What recent initiative do you consider to have been most successful in attracting new audiences?

IM: Libraries offer much more than access to information. The Mississauga Library offers experiences, guidance, and a sense of social connection that help residents develop skills, connect with the community, and explore their interests. Patrons can participate in in-person programs and events, as well as access services that would otherwise be expensive, such as creative software, 3D printers, and sound and video recording equipment. The Hazel McCallion Central Library features a kitchen for cooking and nutrition programs, as well as a games room and other facilities that can be booked for free.

Library staff are also available to help residents navigate existing services, find materials, and build their skills. As for the online experience, the library provides free access to learning and entertainment services that would otherwise require a paid subscription. This includes LinkedIn Learning, The New York Times, PressReader, Ancestry, e-books, and streaming platforms for music and movies.

MS: What concrete benefits can a family with children get from the library today that they couldn’t ten or twenty years ago? Are there programs specifically designed to reduce costs or social isolation for families?

IM: The modern library is a center for community development, outreach, and programming for people of all ages and backgrounds. Families can participate in free programs, access community services, and engage in activities that help them learn, grow, and build connections. For budget-conscious families, the library offers free access to a wide variety of activities and materials, such as streaming services and games, children’s activities, passes to local attractions, drop-in social gatherings, book clubs, safety equipment, and language learning programs.

Through partnerships with local non-profit organizations, the library also provides outreach services, community development, and educational programs. These programs help reduce social isolation by giving residents a space to meet others, learn new skills, and build community. One of the most significant changes in recent years has been the expansion of technology available at the library—such as laptop loans, makerspaces, Wi-Fi hotspots, and other services that support skill development and help lower the cost of access.

Madalena Balça/MS

SENTIR, PENSAR E AGIR

Music entered César Russo’s life at an early age and never left. Originally from São Miguel, it was in his homeland that he began building his connection to music and to the traditions of his people. Today, after several years of pursuing his professional career as an emigrant, he is preparing to fulfill a dream: the release of his first CD, consisting mostly of original songs. In Sentir, Pensar e Agir (Feel, Think and Act), he acknowledges that before the album came the years of learning, performing on stage, and gaining experiences that helped shape the artist he is today.

One of the most significant stages of his journey was joining the Folklore Group of Ribeira Grande, where he found a true school of music, tradition, and culture. It was through folklore that he was introduced to the stage, to other musicians, and to a cultural heritage that would become part of his identity. More than entertainment, he discovered in music a way of preserving the memory and roots of a people.

When he left the Azores and came to Canada, that connection to his roots took on an even greater meaning. Far from his homeland, music became a way of keeping his Azorean identity alive. Over the years, he participated in various Portuguese community events and gradually built his career as a singer.

Now, with the release of his first CD, he is beginning a new chapter. Most of the songs are original, some written by him and others by his wife, Silvia, allowing him to move from being an interpreter to becoming a songwriter and to share his own ideas, emotions, and experiences with the public. This work brings together different moments from his journey: his Azorean roots, his learning through folklore, his experience as an emigrant, and his years performing on stage.

Between the Azores and Canada lies an ocean, but César Russo found in music a way to make it feel smaller. His first CD therefore represents more than a new recording project. It is the continuation of a journey shaped by music, memory, identity, and passion — a journey that began in the Azores and now continues on the stages of the Portuguese diaspora. The CD will be released on September 26.

Romulo Ávila/MS

Fotos: Cindy Da Ponte

The 2026 Beirã Cultural Week began on September 19 and concludes tomorrow, September 26, bringing the community together around traditional cuisine, folklore, culture, music, and fellowship. Over the course of eight days, the event featured a diverse program, including regional lunches and dinners, performances by folk groups, musicians and guest artists, providing opportunities to celebrate the culture and traditions of the Beiras region.

The program began on Saturday, September 19, with the official opening, followed by a regional dinner featuring caldo verde, pork, and oven-roasted veal. The evening included a performance by Telmo Rodrigues, who traveled from Portugal, as well as the Santa Fé Musical Ensemble.

On Sunday, September 20, the program continued with traditional cuisine and a Folklore Festival featuring the Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu, among other entertainment. The evening concluded with a regional dinner and a performance by Jéssica Vidal. On Monday, traditional cuisine once again took center stage, accompanied by performances from the Rancho Folclórico de Vaughan and Telmo Rodrigues.

A Week of Tradition and Fellowship

Tuesday was dedicated to sponsors and members of the media, with an evening featuring the Rancho Folclórico da Associação Cultural do Minho and Telmo Rodrigues.

On Wednesday, the traditional Soup Festival was held as a competition, with participation from Casa das Beiras, Casa do Alentejo, Casa dos Açores, and Casa da Madeira. The evening also featured performances by the Rancho Folclórico do Académico de Viseu and the Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu.

Thursday focused on youth. The program featured performances by So Dance Studios, Performance Teen, Os Desafinados da Casa das Beiras, and DJ Anthony, providing a different kind of evening aimed at younger generations.

Fado Brought the Program to a Close

One of the highlights took place on Friday, September 25, with a Night of Fado. The event featured João Brito and his musicians, who came from Portugal, as well as Cláudia Leal, accompanied by José Geladas on Portuguese guitar and Francisco Moreira on bass guitar.

The Beirã Cultural Week concluded on Saturday, September 26, with another day dedicated to food and fellowship. The closing celebration featured a performance by the Rancho Folclórico Verde Gaio de Lordosa, Viseu, as well as Pedro Joel and his band.

Throughout the week, gastronomy also held a prominent place, bringing to the table flavors from different regions of Portugal — from chanfana to lagareiro-style cod, from rojões to suckling pig, as well as duck rice and pork prepared in the traditional Beiras style.

The 2026 Beirã Cultural Week was therefore much more than a week of gatherings. It was a journey through the Beiras — Baixa, Alta and Litoral — made of flavors, music, folklore, memories, and fellowship.

At the tables and on the stages, traditions that remain alive and are passed down from generation to generation came together. Because Beira is not simply a region: it is the land of our parents and grandparents, of villages, celebrations, flavors, and stories that we carry with us.

Among different lands, one common bond remains. One identity, made up of many memories.

Many lands, one soul — the soul of those who never forget their roots.

Bernardino Nascimento and his entire team deserve congratulations for bringing this celebration to life and for keeping our roots, traditions, and pride in being Beirões so alive.

Romulo Ávila/MS

The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.

Fotos: Cindy Da Ponte

From October 9 to 16, Casa do Alentejo Toronto will once again celebrate Alentejan culture, traditions, and identity with the 41st edition of its Cultural Week. Fado, music, gastronomy, and comedy are part of a program that, this year, also focuses on connecting with younger generations.

Already considered a tradition on the calendar of Toronto’s Portuguese community, Cultural Week has, for more than four decades, sought to keep the culture of a region deeply connected to its roots alive, even far from the Alentejo. The theme chosen for this edition — “From high to low, from the interior to the coast… it’s Alentejo” — aims to highlight the region’s geographical, cultural, and gastronomic diversity.

The program was presented at a press conference, where the organization announced the various initiatives planned for a week dedicated to the Alentejo and its people.

A focus on younger generations

One of the main new features of this edition is its focus on youth. The organization wants to bring younger people closer to Casa do Alentejo by creating opportunities for them to participate more actively in the institution’s activities and recognizing their role in ensuring its continuity.

Among the highlights is a comedy show featuring Alentejan comedian Ana Arrebentinha, an initiative that seeks to bring a different style of entertainment to the traditional Cultural Week program.

The traditional Fado Night will also take place, demonstrating that Alentejan and Portuguese culture can continue to be experienced and passed on by younger generations without losing its connection to its roots.

Fado, comedy, music, and gastronomy thus come together in a program that seeks to balance tradition with new forms of participation.

Tradition and identity

Despite the focus on young people, Alentejan identity remains at the heart of Cultural Week.

For Luis Costa, president of Casa do Alentejo’s executive board, gastronomy, music, and cultural expressions connected to the Alentejo continue to play a prominent role, helping preserve and pass on a heritage that crossed the Atlantic and remains very much alive within the community.

“It is essential not to move away from our identity and from what forms our foundation as Casa do Alentejo,” the organization emphasizes, reinforcing the importance of preserving the institution’s history while also creating space for younger generations to feel that they are part of it.

The theme of this edition specifically seeks to reflect the diversity of the Alentejo, from inland areas to the coast, with their different landscapes, customs, flavors, and cultural expressions.

In Toronto, Cultural Week transforms this diversity into an opportunity for different generations to come together.

A challenge for the future

Maintaining an initiative of this scale also requires significant financial and logistical effort. The organization acknowledges that securing financial support and sponsorships remains one of its main challenges.

To make this edition possible, Casa do Alentejo received support from business owners and young entrepreneurs within the community, as well as from several municipal governments in Portugal.

The organization highlights the contribution of these partners to the event and to preserving a tradition that has continued for more than 40 years.

The 41st Cultural Week thus presents itself as a bridge between the past and the future. While celebrating Alentejan roots through music, fado, gastronomy, and traditions, it also seeks to create space for a new generation.

With “determination, strength, and unity,” in the words of Luis Costa, Casa do Alentejo is preparing another edition of its Cultural Week.

From October 9 to 16, the Alentejo will once again be present in Toronto — from high to low, from the interior to the coast. See the full program and take part in what is, as always, another week dedicated to all of us.

Romulo Ávila/MS

The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.

Fotos: Cindy Da Ponte

Last Saturday, the community took to the streets once again for the third edition of “The Grand Parade,” an annual fundraising walk that brings together participants across various Canadian communities to support organizations working with seniors and their families.

Organized by the Blue Sea Foundation, the initiative mobilizes the community through a peer-to-peer fundraising model, allowing participants to support local organizations such as the Abrigo Centre.

Departing from Loretto College School, participants walked nearly two kilometers to support the Vida e Esperança (Life and Hope) program, which assists over 120 seniors in the Luso-Canadian community.

For Lena Barreto, President of the Board of Directors at the Abrigo Centre, the initiative’s growth demonstrates strong community involvement: “It’s only our third year, but we are already seeing the community embrace this cause,” she stated.

The initiative goes beyond fundraising, aiming to draw attention to a reality that is not always visible: the isolation experienced by many seniors.

Alice Nunes, coordinator of the Senior Program at the Abrigo Centre, highlighted the importance of this support: “It’s a very joyful group that deserves all the support the community can give.” The program offers activities, support, and, above all, opportunities for socializing. For Delminda Pereira, a member of the Abrigo Centre and the Vida e EsperançaProgram, it is precisely this community spirit that makes all the difference: “We have music, a choir, gymnastics, and, above all, we have friendship. We are like a family.”

Sérgio Sarmento, another member of the Abrigo Centre and the Vida e Esperança Program, also emphasized the importance of maintaining these initiatives: “It’s important for all of us. We will keep walking.”

Among the participants was Marit Stiles, Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Davenport and Leader of the Official Opposition in Ontario, who highlighted the importance of keeping seniors active and connected to the community: “Every step we take today is to support seniors and a program as important as this one,” she stated.

For Joyce Santos, a member of the Board of Directors at the Abrigo Centre, the walk is a way to give back to seniors: “It’s good to know that we are supporting those who have done so much for us.”

Businesses, volunteers, and participants joined forces once again for an afternoon filled with music, dancing, and camaraderie.

Manuel DaCosta, businessman and philanthropist, stressed the importance of supporting seniors and recognizing everything this generation has done for the community: “It’s always a privilege to be with people who have done so much for us, especially our seniors. It’s important to support them, provide these moments of togetherness, and show them that the community remains by their side.”

As of press time, $15,450 had been raised to support the Abrigo Centre’s Vida e Esperança program.

The campaign is ongoing, and anyone wishing to contribute can do so through the Abrigo Centre at abrigo.ca, helping ensure the continuation of this vital support for the community’s seniors.

The third edition of the walk has concluded, but it leaves behind a lasting message: caring for our seniors means caring for us all. Because no one should grow old alone.

FP/MS

The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.

A entrada do Canadá na União Europeia parece uma ideia dramática, mas a discussão mudou significativamente ao longo dos últimos meses. A proposta imediata não é que o Canadá se torne um membro de pleno direito da UE. A Comissão Europeia sugeriu que o Canadá se poderia tornar no primeiro membro associado da UE, criando uma relação muito mais profunda do que os acordos estratégicos e comerciais já existentes entre o Canadá e a UE. Esse estatuto não existe atualmente nos tratados da UE e teria de ser criado e negociado.

O Canadá e a Europa já mantêm uma relação económica importante. A UE é o segundo maior parceiro comercial do Canadá em bens e serviços, a seguir aos Estados Unidos, com o comércio entre o Canadá e a UE a atingir os 178 mil milhões em 2025, e com o acordo comercial Canadá-UE a funcionar provisoriamente desde 2017. No entanto, a relação está agora a ir além do comércio.

O Canadá aderiu a iniciativas europeias de defesa, incluindo o programa de aquisição de defesa da UE. O Canadá e a Europa estão também a discutir a cooperação em minerais críticos, inteligência artificial, energia, espaço, comércio digital, serviços financeiros e indústria de defesa. Isto levanta uma questão interessante: poderá o Canadá aproximar-se muito mais da Europa sem se tornar um país europeu? Essa poderá ser a possibilidade mais realista.

Por que razão a adesão plena à UE é difícil… existe uma distinção importante entre ser membro da UE e ter um estatuto de membro associado. Nos termos do artigo 49.º do Tratado da União Europeia, qualquer país que solicite a adesão plena deve ser um Estado europeu que respeite os valores fundamentais da UE. O Canadá situa-se, obviamente, na América do Norte, pelo que a adesão plena ao abrigo do quadro atual do tratado apresentaria um problema jurídico fundamental. Uma relação de associação poderia, portanto, oferecer algo diferente.

O Canadá poderia potencialmente obter um acesso mais profundo aos programas, mercados, investigação, aquisição de defesa e iniciativas estratégicas da Europa, mantendo-se como um país independente com o seu próprio governo, moeda, leis e política externa. Em outras palavras, a questão pode já não ser “deverá o Canadá juntar-se à Europa?”, mas sim “quão profundamente se pode o Canadá integrar com a Europa continuando a ser o Canadá?”.

Trump empurrou o Canadá em direção ao resto do mundo? Há um forte argumento de que a abordagem da administração Trump em relação ao Canadá acelerou algo que o país já estava a começar a reconhecer: o Canadá não se pode dar ao luxo de depender esmagadoramente de um único mercado. Os Estados Unidos continuam a ser o parceiro económico dominante do Canadá. No entanto, tarifas, disputas comerciais e tensões mais amplas encorajaram Otava a procurar alternativas. O Primeiro-Ministro Mark Carney descreveu explicitamente a estratégia do Canadá como a construção de uma maior autonomia económica e estratégica através da diversificação de parcerias. O Governo afirma que o Canadá tem procurado acordos comerciais e de segurança em múltiplos continentes, reduzindo simultaneamente as vulnerabilidades em cadeias de abastecimento críticas.

A atual tensão com Washington deu, por isso, uma nova urgência à relação com a Europa. Trump também se opôs publicamente à possibilidade de uma integração mais profunda entre o Canadá e a UE, alertando que tal relação poderia ter consequências para o comércio. Isto não significa que o Canadá esteja a abandonar os Estados Unidos. A geografia tornará sempre a relação com os americanos extraordinariamente importante. Em vez disso, o Canadá parece estar a fazer uma pergunta diferente.

O que poderia o Canadá ganhar com a Europa? Existem várias vantagens potenciais. Uma maior diversificação comercial: o maior benefício poderia ser a redução da dependência do Canadá em relação ao mercado americano. A Europa representa 27 países e um mercado de consumo gigantesco. As empresas canadianas poderiam ter maiores oportunidades em áreas como energia, agricultura, tecnologia, serviços financeiros, indústria transformadora e minerais críticos.

O Canadá já está a participar em iniciativas europeias de defesa e assinou um acordo que lhe permite participar no quadro de aquisições de defesa da UE. Uma relação mais profunda poderia significar mais oportunidades para as empresas de defesa canadianas, produção e investigação conjuntas, e uma coordenação mais estreita com os aliados europeus. A Europa está interessada em fontes de energia fiáveis, enquanto o Canadá possui recursos energéticos significativos. Uma cooperação mais estreita poderia criar oportunidades envolvendo GNL (gás natural liquefeito), hidrogénio, eletricidade, tecnologia nuclear e desenvolvimento de energias limpas.

Quanto mais integrado o Canadá estiver com as instituições europeias, mais as empresas canadianas poderão ter de operar segundo as regras europeias. O desafio será encontrar o equilíbrio certo entre um maior acesso e a manutenção da autoridade de decisão canadiana. O Canadá não pode simplesmente substituir os Estados Unidos pela Europa. Os dois países partilham a fronteira internacional mais longa do mundo, cadeias de abastecimento profundamente integradas e um volume enorme de comércio bilateral. O objetivo, portanto, não seria necessariamente escolher a Europa em detrimento da América. Poderia ser garantir que o Canadá mantém relações fortes com a América, com a Europa e com o resto do mundo.

Será este o início de um Canadá diferente? Talvez a mudança mais significativa seja psicológica. Durante gerações, o pensamento económico canadiano girou em grande parte em torno dos Estados Unidos. A Europa era importante, mas nunca foi a alternativa central. Isso está a mudar, e Carney está a tentar concretizar essa transformação. Durante décadas, a localização geográfica do Canadá fez dos Estados Unidos o seu parceiro económico natural. Contudo, num mundo cada vez mais incerto, a geografia pode já não ser suficiente.

O futuro pode não passar por o Canadá escolher entre a América e a Europa. Pode passar por ter parcerias suficientes para não ter de escolher.

Vincent Nigro/MS

O conteúdo do website do Milénio Stadium é traduzido automaticamente pelo Google Translate.

Saí hoje e descobri que o combustível estava a cerca de 2,35 Euros por litro. Em dólares canadianos, à taxa de câmbio atual, estamos a falar da quantia redonda de cerca de 3,70 dólares por litro. Lembro-me de protestos, nos últimos anos, por causa de preços muito mais baixos, mas hoje em dia, nem um sopro da população. Claro que há debate no parlamento, mas isso é a habitual troca de acusações e conversa fiada. Sei que a gasolina na Europa sempre foi mais cara do que no Canadá, mas o meu ponto é: onde está a indignação? Literalmente, os preços da gasolina têm subido cerca de 7 cêntimos de euro por semana! Só isso já seria motivo de revolta.

Há alguns anos, provavelmente durante o COVID, em que estava tudo fechado, a gasolina subiu para cerca de dois euros, vinda de cerca de 1,50, e estávamos todos em pânico. Desde o início da invasão do Irão por parte de DT, quando o combustível aqui estava ronda dos mesmos 1,50 Euros por litro, subiu quase o dobro! Mas o que é mais gritante é a dimensão do aumento.

Que jogo é este que estão a jogar? E, mais uma vez, as petrolíferas registam lucros recorde com estes enormes ganhos de receita, embora se suponha que esses aumentos sirvam para cobrir os custos adicionais em que incorrem devido à invasão de DT. Sei que, em termos económicos, a questão pode não ser assim tão a preto e branco. É óbvio que estamos a ser manipulados pelo mercado de ações; eles apanham um susto e nós pagamos a conta. Mas todos sabemos isto, até eu já o mencionei várias vezes. Os ganhos do sistema vão sempre para cima, enquanto nós suportamos o fardo. Mas porque é que as pessoas estão tão desinteressadas? Será que desistimos todos, sentindo-nos impotentes? Que valor será preciso atingir para obter uma reação dos 99%?

Olhando ao meu redor, ninguém que eu conheça parece estar minimamente interessado nos custos extra. Pessoalmente, como não conduzo muito, não me afeta por demais, embora continue a custar. É um facto que o governo fica com uma fatia enorme (aqui e ali) do preço que pagamos na bomba, e eles estão muito relutantes em dar-nos uma folga. Nenhuma surpresa aí, já que os impostos sobre os combustíveis são uma verdadeira fonte de receita à qual eles se afeiçoaram muito, por ser uma forma tão fácil de tirar dinheiro dos nossos bolsos. DT continua a dizer que o Irão está em cacos, que está nas últimas e que defender o país não é sustentável. Diz-se que o povo está a sofrer e a ficar sem comida e combustível. Por outro lado, tenho estado a acompanhar alguns iranianos no Instagram que mostram exatamente o oposto. Não há dúvida de que tem havido vítimas, mas tenho visto pessoas a fazer a sua vida normal, a comer gelados, a atestar os carros por tostões por depósito. Outra surpresa foi ver mulheres de todas as idades com o cabelo à mostra, sem véu. Isso confunde-me, de certa forma, porque a comunicação social ocidental continua a empurrar-me exatamente o oposto pela cara fora, parecendo validar as alegações dos iranianos de que o Hijab é opcional e não obrigatório. Não tenho dúvidas de que se cometeram atrocidades naquele país, mas ao mesmo tempo é importante lembrar que a maioria das notícias dos canais tradicionais é censurada, e agora DT expulsou mais um conjunto de organizações de comunicação americanas, desencadeando processos judiciais e um boicote da maioria, se não de todas as principais redes de televisão. Para contra-atacar, a Casa Branca está a transmitir em direto tudo o que DT decide dizer, sozinho. Não sei como estará a situação até sexta-feira, quando esta publicação sair, mas hoje em dia, espere-se o pior, porque ele está a ser encurralado. Enquanto isso, façam como eu fiz: procurem a verdade por vocês mesmos. Acho que se podem surpreender.

Fiquem bem!

Raul Freitas/MS

O conteúdo do website do Milénio Stadium é traduzido automaticamente pelo Google Translate.

My dear readers, there are things that honestly leave me thinking. One of them is watching the political war that has settled around fuel prices.

Gasoline goes up, diesel goes up, and the search for someone to blame begins immediately. The Government is accused, the opposition points fingers, the Government responds, and in the middle of it all is the citizen—who arrives at the pump, looks at the price per liter, and asks: after all, who is going to pay for this?

It was in this environment that we recently saw José Luís Carneiro, leader of the PS, filling up his car accompanied by a team and photographers, in a sort of political demonstration at the gas station.

I ask myself if this is what we should expect from politics. I have nothing against a politician filling up his car. We all need fuel. But when a hardship affecting millions of people is turned into a political communication stunt, I begin to think we are discussing image more than the problem itself.

Mr. MP José Luís Carneiro, the problem is serious. Instead of turning a real difficulty facing the Portuguese people into a political communication opportunity, it would be important to explain the reality truthfully and present solutions. Don’t forget past political responsibilities either. I could list a few, but I’ll save that for later. I don’t have a short memory, nor do I believe in Santa Claus. I believe in those who speak the truth, because Portugal needs responsible politicians.

First, it is worth explaining something that often seems forgotten: the Portuguese Government does not decide the price of gasoline or diesel on its own.

Portugal does not set international oil product prices, does not control the global market, nor does it decide international shipping or refining costs.

Even ENSE (the National Entity for the Energy Sector) explains that reference prices are based on international quotations for refined products, among other components. Therefore, simply saying “gasoline went up because the Government raised the price” is far too simplistic.

However, we cannot say the Government bears no responsibility at all either. It does.

The State collects taxes on fuel and can make decisions regarding the applicable tax policy. It can lower or raise taxes and create mechanisms to try to cushion the impact of price hikes.

This is where the discussion needs to be held with seriousness.

As journalist José Gomes Ferreira has already pointed out, a reduction in VAT on fuels would have a significant impact on public accounts. And when someone promises to lower a tax, they should also explain how much revenue the State gives up and where it will find that money instead.

Because when we fill up a car, we aren’t just paying for fuel. We are paying for international costs, transport, distribution, commercial margins, and taxes.

Perhaps the question the Portuguese people should be asking isn’t just, “Who raised the price of gasoline?” Perhaps we should ask: how much does fuel actually cost before taxes? How much goes to the State? How much stays in the distribution and retail chain? And what portion of this rise is genuinely the result of international conditions?

These are different questions, and they demand answers that are much harder to give than shooting a video at a gas station.

My friends, open your eyes, because money doesn’t grow on trees. If the State receives less from a tax, someone will have to make up the difference, or there will be less money available for other expenses.

That is why I dislike political solutions made purely for the camera.

Today we can say, “We lowered it by five cents.” Tomorrow we have to explain who paid for those five cents. This isn’t a left vs. right issue. It’s a matter of basic accounting.

We live in a world where a war, an international crisis, or a supply disruption thousands of kilometers away from Portugal can quickly be reflected in the price we pay at the pump.

The Government can try to cushion the impact, but it cannot dictate terms to the global market. What it can do is decide how much it collects through taxes and what measures it takes to ease the burden.

That is where we must demand explanations. We don’t need photos at the pumps. We need numbers.

Because in the end, a politician can make a video, the Government can announce a measure, and the opposition can throw an accusation.

But the person who arrives at the pump and pulls out their wallet is the citizen. And that citizen doesn’t want to watch a video war.

They want to know the truth: why are they paying so much, and who is actually keeping the money?

As a Portuguese citizen, I am ashamed to see certain politicians so concerned with coming to power and so little concerned with explaining the reality of the decisions they intend to make.

Portugal needs politicians who explain, who take responsibility, and who have the courage to tell the Portuguese people not just what they want to hear, but what they need to know.

Have a good weekend!

Augusto Bandeira/MS

The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.

The Ontario government has announced it is investing $11 million to support the construction of Generation Mining’s new $410 million copper and palladium processing complex in Marathon, Ont.

The project is the first recipient of the new Critical Minerals Processing Fund (CMPF) and, once fully operational, the Marathon project will create more than 450 jobs in addition to the 800 jobs initially supported during the construction phase.

“Copper and palladium hold a wide range of industrial applications, making them increasingly important to Ontario’s economic future as demand for power transmission systems, electric vehicles, clean energy infrastructure and defence technologies continues to grow,” explains a release.

The processing facility will also play a role in advancing the company’s broader $992 million Marathon Project. The $500 million CMPF is delivered through Invest Ontario.

DCN/MS

A new report prepared recently by the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) shows the constant back and forth tariffs between Canada and the U.S. is raising the cost of new homes significantly.

Counter-tariffs imposed Sept. 8 will add $9,000 to $14,000 to the cost of a typical Ontario single-detached home and $18,000 to $28,000 to a mid-rise unit. That’s in addition to the $15,000 to $25,000 load that homes were already carrying from measures imposed in March 2025, a release notes.

“This should not, in any way, be construed as a criticism of the Canadian government’s decision to respond to the U.S. with counter-tariffs,” explains RESCON president Richard Lyall in a statement. “Faced with substantial U.S. tariffs, Canada had little choice but to act, as no sovereign nation can simply stand aside while key industries are targeted with punitive trade measures.

“However, this is not a good situation for the homebuilding industry. Tariffs inflict damage on both economies. They are not prosperity measures and will make building homes more expensive in both Canada and the U.S.”

Costs for structural steel and rebar to wiring and vinyl products, radiators and cabinet hardware, carpets and heat pumps will all go up.

The release states modelling by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and Oxford Economics put the Ontario hit at $2.68 billion of GDP and 14,000 construction jobs in 2026 – before the Sept. 8 counter-tariffs were implemented. A preliminary read suggests 2027 housing starts in Ontario could run 8,000 to 12,000 units below the current CMHC baseline if no residential remission is granted.

Lyall warns builders will not be able to absorb the increases without passing the costs on to homebuyers and renters. This will further worsen affordability in both the U.S. and Canada.

“Both Canada and the U.S. find themselves struggling with severe housing affordability challenges, the last thing we need is an escalating tariff war that drives up the cost of building homes,” adds Lyall. “Yet that is precisely where we find ourselves today. The trade war between the two closest economic partners in the world will only make the housing crisis worse.”

A report done by Oxford Economics for the Canadian American Business Council underscores the importance of the longstanding commercial relationship between Canada and the U.S. A complete breakdown of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) could result in cumulative economic losses reaching (U.S.) $1.4 trillion in the U.S. and (Cdn.) $523 billion in Canada. By contrast, an improved agreement could add (U.S.) $432 billion to American GDP and (Cdn.) $253 billion to Canadian GDP over the next decade while supporting tens of thousands of additional jobs on both sides of the border.

“Imposing tariffs has created a problem where none existed,” says Lyall. “It’s akin to shooting yourself in the foot. Tariffs are not the answer. And they only add to our housing supply and affordability crisis. You don’t build more homes by imposing tariffs and hiking prices.”

DCN/MS

NASA’s new telescope is already “seeing” the stars

NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope has just passed one of the most important tests of its mission. Launched on August 30, 2026, the observatory is en route to the L2 point, approximately 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, and has already powered on its primary tool. The team successfully activated the Wide Field Instrument, a 300-megapixel infrared camera capable of rapidly surveying vast areas of the cosmos without losing detail.

This required patience: on September 11, engineers turned off the instrument’s heaters and allowed it to cool down to around -143 degrees Celsius, enabling the activation of its 18 infrared detectors. Initial test images show the first photons of starlight hitting the sensors, and the team also confirmed that thermal control is functioning as expected.

What makes the Roman special is its scale. Each image will cover a patch of sky larger than the full Moon, with the sharpness of telescopes like Hubble. Over five years, it is expected to map more than 50 times the area of sky that Hubble observed in 30 years. There is also a welcome surprise: a highly precise initial course correction, along with other fuel savings, is expected to more than double the mission’s potential lifespan.

The next step is calibrating the instruments. The first images are expected around the Christmas season, with scientific operations planned for January 2027, focusing on dark matter, dark energy, and exoplanets outside our Solar System.

The world’s largest electric ship has arrived in South America

After a long journey from Australia, the largest fully electric ship ever built has reached its destination. The ferry, known as Hull 096, was built by the Australian shipyard Incat Tasmania for the South American operator Buquebus. Since a vessel of this size cannot cross oceans on battery power alone, it made the journey “piggyback” style: it was transported by the heavy-load vessel Black Marlin and unloaded in South American waters for the first time. The route passed north of New Zealand, crossed the Pacific, and rounded Cape Horn.

The numbers are impressive. At 130 meters in length, the vessel will run exclusively on electric power, featuring a storage system with over 250 tons of batteries and more than 40 megawatt-hours of capacity—four times larger than any previous marine installation. To put that into perspective, it is roughly equivalent to the batteries of 400 long-range electric cars.

It will operate across the Rio de la Plata between Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay and Buenos Aires—a journey of about an hour—carrying up to 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles. It will operate under the name China Zorrilla, in honor of the iconic Uruguayan film and theater star.

And it won’t be an isolated case: Incat is already building three more similar electric ferries for European operators, which will also be the largest of their kind in the EU. It is a clear sign that short-distance maritime transport can indeed leave fossil fuels behind.

Chile eliminates dog-transmitted rabies

In a historic public health achievement, Chile has become the first country in South America to eliminate dog-transmitted rabies as a public health problem. The announcement was made by the World Health Organization and comes just days after another piece of good news on this front: the previous week, Bhutan received the same recognition from the WHO.

Rabies is one of the oldest and most feared diseases known to humanity. Once symptoms appear, it is virtually always fatal, and the vast majority of human cases worldwide result from dog bites. Therefore, eliminating canine transmission is a major milestone, especially for rural and poorer communities, which are traditionally the most exposed.

This victory did not happen overnight. The recognition is the result of more than five decades of effort, including dog vaccinations, surveillance, and human access to post-bite treatment. It serves as an example of how persistent public health policies, consistently applied across generations, ultimately bear fruit.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called it a historic accomplishment that demonstrates the impact of sustained investment in public health. With Chile and Bhutan reaching this goal almost simultaneously, hope grows that other nations can follow the same path, bringing the global goal of ending human deaths from dog-transmitted rabies ever closer.

Reading for pleasure is good for your health (and it’s never too late to start)

Good news for book lovers: a new study suggests that reading for pleasure—whether a light novel, a classic, or even a comic book—offers real health benefits. Research from the University of Cambridge linked reading to better mental health, greater empathy, and a reduced risk of developing dementia.

The researchers didn’t just conduct an isolated experiment; they analyzed data from existing studies involving thousands of adults and children. One of these studies linked reading to a 33% reduction in the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. There was also an unexpected finding: beyond improving literacy, reading was also associated with better math scores, as both share similar cognitive processes.

The study’s lead author, Professor Barbara Sahakian, argues that the habit should be encouraged early on, but stresses that it is never too late to start, and that the benefits can be felt throughout one’s entire life, well into old age.

Some countries are already turning this concept into public policy. In Singapore, residents can now track their reading habits and even earn rewards through the new Read SG platform—an initiative by the national library to counteract endless screen scrolling. The initial goal is simple: read for just 15 minutes a day, whether on the bus, before bed, or over lunch. A target well within anyone’s reach.

MS

A próxima eleição municipal de Toronto será um teste crítico à direção política da cidade. No centro da corrida à presidência da câmara está Olivia Chow, que procura permanecer no cargo e continuar a moldar o futuro da maior cidade do Canadá.

A eleição exigirá que os residentes de Toronto considerem várias questões importantes: Está a cidade a mover se na direção certa? Cumpriu a presidente da câmara as suas promessas? Consegue ela dar resposta à crise de acessibilidade financeira de Toronto, à escassez de habitação, às preocupações com a segurança pública e aos desafios dos transportes? E, talvez o mais importante, acreditam os eleitores que ela merece outro mandato?

Com o gabinete da presidência da câmara a atrair uma atenção significativa, a corrida poderá tornar se num dos confrontos municipais mais acompanhados do país.

Estará Olivia Chow na liderança?

Sim, com base nas sondagens disponíveis mais recentes, Olivia Chow está a liderar a corrida à presidência da câmara, mas a eleição está longe de estar decidida. O seu principal opositor é o vereador Brad Bradford, que tem feito campanha em torno de questões como a segurança pública, o congestionamento e o custo de vida. O antigo ministro do gabinete federal Chris Alexander também está na corrida, adicionando outro nome ao confronto. Uma sondagem da Liaison Strategies divulgada no final de agosto colocou Chow à frente de Bradford entre os eleitores decididos e inclinados. Outra sondagem da Polaris Polling revelou que Chow lidera sobre Bradford por 50 por cento contra 39 por cento quando os eleitores indecisos são excluídos. No entanto, as sondagens são apenas um retrato da opinião pública, não uma previsão do resultado.

Chow tornou se presidente da câmara em 2023 após vencer uma eleição intercalar na sequência da demissão de John Tory. Procura agora o seu primeiro mandato integral eleito como presidente da câmara. A sua campanha pode apontar para iniciativas que envolvem refeições escolares, tarifas da TTC, habitação, financiamento de transportes e serviços públicos. O seu desafio será convencer os eleitores de que estas conquistas fizeram uma diferença significativa nas suas vidas quotidianas.

Bradford, um vereador da cidade que representa Beaches-East York, apresenta se como uma alternativa a Chow. A sua campanha tem se focado no crime, no congestionamento e na acessibilidade financeira. A sua maior oportunidade reside em transformar a insatisfação com a atual administração em apoio para a sua própria liderança. Contudo, ele tem de convencer os eleitores de que oferece mais do que simplesmente uma mudança na Câmara Municipal.

Alexander, um antigo ministro do gabinete federal e embaixador, entrou na corrida à presidência da câmara mais tarde do que Chow e Bradford. A sua candidatura poderá afetar a corrida ao atrair eleitores que procuram uma alternativa a ambos os candidatos liderantes. A questão mais importante é saber se ele consegue construir reconhecimento e apoio suficientes antes do dia das eleições.

A eleição municipal de 2026 está agendada para segunda-feira, 26 de outubro de 2026. Os eleitores de Toronto elegerão um presidente da câmara, vereadores municipais e conselheiros escolares. A cidade também verá disputas nos seus 25 wards municipais. Mas há outro fator importante a considerar: a cidade de Toronto tem um grande grupo de eleitores indecisos e esses serão os decisores se o confronto se tornar mais apertado nas semanas que se seguem.

Um facto importante a ter em conta é que a meio da semana Doug Ford veio a público e basicamente apoiou Olivia Chow para o cargo de presidente da câmara e deu lhe a sua bênção. Durante a campanha eleitoral de 2023, Ford alertou que uma vitória de Chow seria um “desastre absoluto”. Desde que Chow se tornou presidente da câmara, no entanto, os dois desenvolveram uma relação de trabalho apesar de grandes divergências em questões como as ciclovias e a intervenção provincial nos assuntos de Toronto. Ford está agora a enfatizar o que aconteceu quando os dois governos trabalharam juntos em vez das suas diferenças ideológicas. Poderá querer fazer a pergunta de por que razão são Ford e Chow tão bons amigos com perspetivas políticas nos extremos opostos do espetro?

Uma resposta simples… dinheiro, dinheiro e dinheiro. Os comentários de Ford surgem num momento interessante. Não se limitam a elogiar Chow; reforçam o argumento de que Chow estabeleceu uma relação de trabalho com Queen’s Park. A ironia aqui é que há uma reviravolta política marcante entre a presidente da câmara e o primeiro-ministro provincial.

Leiam nas entrelinhas… para uma campanha à presidência da câmara, isto é o mais próximo de um apoio político do que dizer: “Votem em Olivia Chow.”

Vincent Black/MS

O conteúdo do website do Milénio Stadium é traduzido automaticamente pelo Google Translate.

Hello, good morning,

I hope you find yourselves in good spirits and in good health.

September has already passed its halfway mark, much like the phases of the moon in decreasing order to give way to month X. Thus the wind carries us along.

This week, I write to you off topic, as I will leave elections to the experts.

I tried to understand the state of the world in the 21st century, and what that really means for us as a Society.

The state of the world in the 21st century is marked by geopolitical transitions, accelerated technological advances, and global systemic crises. Analyses of this period, such as those discussed by specialists in reflections on the same subject, highlight profound transformations in sovereignty, the economy, and society. Namely:

Geopolitics and Global Power

• Rise of new powers: China has consolidated itself as a central player and the world’s second largest economy, redefining the rules of multilateralism and challenging the traditional hegemony of the United States.
• Russia and conflicts: Russia has emerged as an active military power, while the international system faces growing tensions and geopolitical instability.
• Democratic erosion: Several democracies around the world face pressure from populist movements and authoritarian tendencies.

Technology and Infrastructure

• Digital revolution and AI: Dominance in digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence has become the new pillar of national sovereignty.
• Innovation: This century has witnessed the democratization of smartphones, advances in private space exploration, and scientific milestones like the detection of the Higgs boson.

Global Crises and Challenges

• Public health: The COVID 19 pandemic severely marked global health in the first half of the 2020s.
• Socioeconomic tensions: Financial crises (such as 2008) and disputes over strategic resources, like rare earth minerals, shape global economic competition, not to add the measures and tariffs imposed by the “Madman” U.S. President, D “C” T. , (I leave the C to your discretion and mental capacity to describe), measures as I was saying that will erect high barriers not only for us (Canada), but for everyone as a global society.

It is what it is and will always be worth what it’s worth.

Be well and have an excellent weekend,

See you soon,

Cristina DaCosta/MS