The Intelligence from The Economist Shining armour: China’s new fleet
May 19, 2023
Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor, discusses China's military ambitions and naval modernization, highlighting the growing tension over Taiwan. Ainsley Johnston, data correspondent, reveals the alarming rise in European mortality rates linked to soaring energy prices during winter, indicating a complex relationship between public health and energy costs. Finally, Anne Rowe pays tribute to Pema Tsieden, a pioneer of Tibetan cinema, exploring his unique storytelling style and its reflection on Tibetan life and culture amidst adversity.
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European Energy Crisis
- Following Russia's Ukraine invasion and energy weaponization, European energy prices surged, impacting households.
- This caused a cost-of-living crisis, protests, and concerns about the health impacts of reduced heating.
Impact of High Energy Prices
- Increased energy prices led to reduced heating, increasing risks of cardiac and respiratory problems and deaths.
- The Economist's grim prediction of increased deaths due to high energy costs proved accurate.
Excess Death Analysis
- Excess deaths in 28 European countries were analyzed, revealing a 7.8% increase compared to historical averages.
- Although 60,000 deaths were officially COVID-related, it's unlikely to account for the entire surge, as COVID deaths represented a lower proportion of excess deaths than in earlier pandemic stages.