Opinion
Comment and analysis on today’s biggest issues from Edinburgh's world-leading experts.
The views expressed in this section are those of the contributors, and do not necessarily represent those of the University.
Kids awaiting neurodivergent diagnoses need more help
Many neurodivergent children across the UK are waiting for up to three years for assessment and diagnosis. More must be done to provide early support for these children.
Russia’s war against its own future
One year on from its invasion of Ukraine, how has the conflict affected Russia's view of its leaders and place in the world? Disinterest is rife, dissent is scarce, and a dictatorship is settling in.
Food price rises could see millions go hungry in 2023
Soaring fertiliser costs could see food prices rise further in 2023, leading to millions more people being undernourished. Is this the end of an era of cheap food?
Vote earlier in life, vote more often
Supporters of reducing voting ages to 16 say it helps embed the habit of visiting the ballot box earlier in life. New evidence from Scotland suggests they may have a case.
Governments need to begin fighting climate change at home
Leaders need to do more to signal that the only future is a green one. Otherwise the financial sector will have an excuse to continue to bet on fossil fuels.
The Queen helped turn the ruins of British Empire into a…
The British Empire was brutal, humiliating and unwelcome for many, yet, under Queen Elizabeth II's guidance, the Commonwealth helped bring some healing in its wake.
How a low-expectation COP both surprised and disappointed
COP27 may have delivered a fund for the most vulnerable countries, but it also buried the goal of limiting warming to 1.5C and wounded the 2C target too.
What will a successful Qatar World Cup look like?
Thirty-two nations have travelled to Qatar to bring home football’s ultimate prize. The tiny Gulf state has little chance of winning, but its goals go beyond sporting success.
Annual Covid boosters should be like the flu shot
An yearly jab ahead of winter could become as routine as treating the flu. For the world to live alongside Covid-19 and to protect the most vulnerable, it is the most sensible option.
Why talking more about menopause at work is… complicated
There are many upsides for workplaces being more open about menopause, but employers should be aware of potentially unexpected pitfalls too.
The UK is 280 million years late for a fracking boom
Why lifting the ban on shale gas exploration is contradicted by geological knowledge, public opinion, and climate change action.