As Colombia approaches presidential elections next year, the US decision to decertify the country in the war on drugs plays into the hands of its allies on the political right, writes NICK MacWILLIAM

THE activities of direct action environmentalists Extinction Rebellion have caused something of a stir across the land.
Efforts to block roads and obstruct the flow of traffic has raised temperatures.
Recently, another group, Insulate Britain, took action to stop traffic flows on some major motorways. Their aim is to get more insulation of buildings to halt carbon emissions — not that revolutionary, many may think.

PAUL DONOVAN recommends three new books that explore the human relationship with nature

PAUL DONOVAN recommends an excellent stage adaptation of Stephen King’s classic portrayal of the the injustice of the US prison system

Labour councillor PAUL DONOVAN wonders why the right-wing party gets so much more media attention than it seems to merit