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Before the shooting stars

As Russian troops gather on its eastern border, war dominates the conversation in Ukraine. In its bustling capital, Kyiv, a novelist and reservist explores the uncertainty and escapism of a life lived in suspense.
Positive influence

Prime minister Sanna Marin explains how Finland is setting an example for the rest of the world to follow.
Should Emmanuel Macron stay or go?

When the French president was elected in 2017, his landslide victory seemed to signal a transformative moment for a nation divided and unsure of its footing on the global stage. As he seeks re-election, our panel discusses whether he has earned the right to serve again.
Under the umbrella

As cultural industries faltered in a time of pandemic, two entrepreneurs identified an opportunity. With their new holding company, Cultureworks, they plan to offer a new global platform for creativity – and reshape the sector for the better.
Greater expectations

It might be Ljubljana’s little sister but the evolving Slovenian city of Maribor is drawing entrepreneurs and expats with big ambitions.
Beyond a joke

At a time when it isn’t always easy to see the funny side, comedians from Denmark to Dubai are providing a vital service by keeping us smiling – while making the powerful nervous. We hail these satirists, cartoonists and comics, and find out what makes different nations guffaw.
Heard the one about...?

In the age of media training and social-media outrage, humour has seemingly taken a back seat. But are people in positions of power and prestige really as po-faced as we expect them to be in public? We think not. And to prove it, we asked a host of them, from ambassadors to virology specialists, to tickle our funny bones with the most hilarious joke they could muster. Prepare for the punchline.
Sight and sound

From an artist’s interrogation of identity to an auteur’s latest work of high melodrama, we survey forthcoming cultural highlights.
Funny business

Graphic designers are known for being bold but where is their wit? We meet some comic types.
Area of expertise

Built to an inspired modernist plan, the riverside bairro of Restelo is an exemplar of suburban architecture.
Simple pleasures

Innovative design needn’t be complex. Here we round up seven smart items that deliver easy solutions.
Performance bonus

The sportswear market is a crowded field so finding clothes that offer something new is no walk in the park. Meet three brands that are bona fide game-changers.
Weave just begun

One company’s experimental approach has wool manufacturers and brands spinning new yarns.
Fresh start

Redefine your look as the new year begins. Subtle shades, clean lines and a functional aesthetic will add a spring to your step.

Make my day 04: Omega gloves / Naples

Upper hand

Fancy something handsome to see you through the cold snap? If so, Alberto Squillace is a handy contact. He owns Omega, a glove-maker in Naples that follows a centuries-old tradition of manufacturing. Inside his workshop in the Sanità area are craftspeople undertaking the 25 steps to create leather gloves lined with wool or cashmere. Hands up who’s interested?
Via Stella 12, 80137 Naples

PHOTOGRAPHER: Victoria Cagol

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Before the shooting stars

Positive influence

Should Emmanuel Macron stay or go?

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Greater expectations

Beyond a joke

Heard the one about...?

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Funny business

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Simple pleasures

Performance bonus

Weave just begun

Fresh start

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