Washington’s inability to subjugate Iran is an example of how it is trying to preserve a regional order that no longer exists, argues RAMZY BAROUD
LAST month, Red Pepper magazine announced its final print copy. To anyone committed to left-wing journalism, independent media, getting out news from the movements, here and internationally, then this is a blow. There is little enough media on our side — and we can’t afford to lose any of it.
So I want to pay tribute to Red Pepper’s founding editor, Hilary Wainwright, and her talented editorial teams, that produced Red Pepper for over 30 years. I didn’t always agree with the articles, but really, so what? Who doesn’t want debate and discussion, and Red Pepper was always well-informed, principled and well-written.
When it was founded, explicitly as a left publication independent of the Labour Party, it had real appeal. I always appreciated its coverage of the left in Europe, its commitment to the World Social Forum process, its informed writings on defence diversification, and its support for the cause of peace.
Media Lens at 25: David Cromwell and David Edwards reflect on a quarter-century of media criticism, explaining why independent journalism is more important than ever
The once beating heart of British journalism was undone by technological change, union battles and Murdoch’s 1986 Wapping coup – leaving London the only major capital without a press club, says TIM GOPSILL
As advertising drains away, newsrooms shrink and local papers disappear, MIKE WAYNE argues that the market model for news is broken – and that public-interest alternatives, rooted in democratic accountability, are more necessary than ever
BERNADETTE KEAVENEY announces a simplified and streamlined way to get your paper delivered daily, and a big push for new readers that we can all help make into a success



