PRESS REVIEW – Monday, September 22: First, France’s imminent recognition of the state of Palestine is widely covered in the French press, while international media analyse the broader implications of this move. Also, anti-corruption protests are shaking the Philippines, creating significant regional unrest. Finally, Rome’s airport has introduced new services catering to travellers with their furry friends.
France’s historic recognition of the state of Palestine is getting a lot of coverage. L'Humanité's front page reads: "Finally!" The paper calls it a “first key victory” towards the “construction of a two-state solution”. Libération calls it a historic step, and although the paper is not usually a great supporter of the president, it acknowledges his efforts. La Croix calls it a powerful gesture, but not an end in itself. Meanwhile, the Figaro though calls it a risky move and wonders if it might not be a pointless diplomatic stunt. L’Opinion says that Macron is going all in.
International papers are also covering the story. In Belgium, Le Soir discusses the ten countries which will most likely take part, as well as those missing from that list, including the United States, Japan, South Korea, and Germany. The right-leaning Australian paper The Australian, discusses the different reactions across the political spectrum. In Portugal, Diario de Noticias cites their foreign minister who says that it is “the only path to a just and sustainable peace”. An opinion piece in the Guardian hopes that the recognition of a Palestinian state will be a call to action and not just conscience salving. The Times headlines with “Palestine recognition great prize for Hamas”. Finally, Lebanese paper l’Orient le Jour says finally, even if it might already be too late.
The Philippines has seen a wave of anti-corruption protests, The Inquirer says that protestors are demanding accountability. The Star looks at the so-called ghost infrastructure projects which reportedly siphoned off at least 118 billion Pesos between 2023 and 2025. The Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post says that the protests are a legacy defining crisis for Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Finally, the Asia Times highlights the similarities between recent protests in Indonesia and Nepal, where mass protests have denounced corruption and elite privilege.
Finally, Rome’s airport has opened a luxury dog hotel, starting at around 40 euros a night.
You can catch our press review every morning on France 24 at 7:20am and 9:20am (Paris time), from Monday to Friday.
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