Mona’s Eyes by Thomas Schlesser review – painfully clunky lessons in art

In a significant political shift, France has decided to backtrack on President Emmanuel Macron's signature retirement reforms, a move that reflects the growing influence of leftist opposition. This reversal is crucial as it highlights the ongoing tensions in French politics and the challenges Macron faces in implementing his agenda. The decision could have far-reaching implications for the future of pension policies in France and the stability of Macron's government.

Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy is set to begin a five-year prison sentence on October 21 for accepting illegal funds from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi during his 2007 presidential campaign. This development is significant as it highlights ongoing issues of political corruption and accountability in France, raising questions about the integrity of political financing and the legal repercussions for high-profile figures.

Simon Fox, the CEO of Frieze, is optimistic about the upcoming art fair in Paris, suggesting that it could create a 'Barbenheimer moment' for collectors, similar to the recent cultural phenomenon. He believes that both Frieze and Art Basel Paris can coexist and thrive, even amidst a challenging art market. This perspective is significant as it highlights the potential for collaboration and growth in the art world, rather than competition, which could benefit artists and collectors alike.

The film 'Souleymane’s Story' features a stunning performance by Abou Sangaré, highlighting the struggles of economic migrants in Paris. The narrative takes a powerful turn, transforming its seemingly neutral title into a poignant reflection of hope and resilience. This story matters as it sheds light on the often overlooked lives of immigrants, making their experiences visible and relatable to a wider audience.

Raila Odinga, a prominent figure in Kenya's political landscape and a champion for democracy, has passed away in India at the age of 80. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes, particularly from President Ruto, who recognized Odinga's significant contributions as a former prime minister and long-time opposition leader. This loss is felt deeply across the nation, as Odinga's legacy of advocating for democratic reforms and social justice has left an indelible mark on Kenya's history.

In a disappointing turn of events for Pakistan, their hopes of achieving a historic win against England in the Women's World Cup were dashed by rain. The match was abandoned with Pakistan at 34 without loss, chasing a revised target of 113. England's Nat Sciver-Brunt acknowledged that her team 'weren’t good enough,' highlighting the missed opportunity for Pakistan to secure their first ODI victory over England. This match was crucial for both teams, as it could have shifted the dynamics of the tournament.

The conservative justices of the Supreme Court are showing skepticism towards a crucial provision of the Voting Rights Act, particularly regarding Louisiana's new congressional maps that have created a majority-Black district. This development raises concerns about the future of voting rights and representation in the U.S., as it suggests a potential shift in how the court views racial considerations in electoral maps. The implications of this case could significantly affect minority representation and the integrity of the electoral process.

Stellantis is shifting some automotive production from Ontario, Canada, to the United States, which could affect thousands of jobs in Canada. This move raises concerns about the future of the Canadian automotive industry and the potential economic impact on workers and communities reliant on these jobs. As companies navigate the complexities of production costs and market demands, this decision highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the automotive sector in North America.

Spain and the EU have pushed back against President Trump's threats of tariffs related to NATO spending, arguing that funding should focus on genuine security threats rather than arbitrary financial targets. This disagreement highlights ongoing tensions between the U.S. and its European allies, raising concerns about the future of transatlantic relations and collective defense efforts.

Lawmakers are expressing frustration over the Trump administration's insufficient communication regarding military strikes on suspected drug smuggling boats in Venezuela. This lack of transparency is raising concerns among Congress members about the implications of these actions and the overall strategy in the region. As the Pentagon updates its press policy, the need for clear and timely information becomes even more critical for informed decision-making.