The left needs a bold energy vision – because if it fails to provide one, others will shape the future in their own interests, argues ALAN SIMPSON

MAT COWARD explains how in the 17th century a row over whether to kneel at communion became a battle over religion, class and royal power

As thousands die in the eastern DRC, a global health emergency is being starved of funds, says S KRISHNASWAMY

ROB WARZYNIAK recalls the emblematic 1906 book, The Jungle, in its analysis of the crisis presently engulfing the US Food and Drug Administration 

Renewed illusions in social democratic reformism are sprouting as a result of Andy Burnham’s rhetoric, but material conditions are already intruding into the debate, argues NICK WRIGHT

Welsh wanderings showcase fiery destruction, alternative water ways and revive memories of a local mining legend, writes MARK SEDDON

India’s monsoon is running below normal overall, yet extreme rainfall has already caused deadly flooding in Kerala, explains LIGIN JOSEPH

A small Palestinian village is under attack from illegal settlers and the Israeli state to forcibly extend their illegal settlements. It is a template for the future, writes RAMZY BAROUD

North East Volunteers for Liberty plan to mark a double anniversary in October for local heroes who stood firm against tyranny, writes TONY FOX

The fawning obituaries have painted a flattering portrait of Rod Liddle. STEPHEN ARNELL offers a rather less reverential view of the man and his legacy

The US is hell-bent on dismantling the International Criminal Court as part of its assault on global legal systems, but others also have valid reasons to seek its demise. BEN CHACKO provides the analysis