Russian missiles will not stop our support for Ukraine – the British Council’s vital work goes on | Scott McDonald

Russian missiles will not stop our support for Ukraine – the British Council’s vital work goes on | Scott McDonald

Our colleagues deliver educational and cultural programmes in some of the world’s most dangerous places. And they don’t give up when things get tough Scott McDonald is chief executive of the British Council On Wednesday night, our office in Kyiv was damaged in a Russian missile attack . It was a stark reminder of the risks that an organisation such as ours faces in conflict-affected areas. I was relieved to hear that all colleagues were safe and accounted for. One colleague was injured and admitted to hospital but thankfully he is in a stable condition. Working under such conditions around the world is challenging, and yet, time and again, our colleagues and partners demonstrate courage and commitment in carrying on despite the dangers. Their resilience is extraordinary. We are working to find ways to minimise disruption and continuing to support our team there. Scott McDonald is chief executive of the British Council Continue reading...

‘Too many women choose death over divorce’: the Indian retreats taking the shame out of separation

‘Too many women choose death over divorce’: the Indian retreats taking the shame out of separation

Divorce is not an end but a beginning, says Rafia Afi, who gets women together to change ideas about toxic marriages On the bus making its way through Kerala to the misty hills of Vagamon, a group of 15 women, many wearing hijabs and dupattas, with colourful shirts pulled over jeans, hum a melodious tune, clapping and swaying in rhythm. Once off the bus, the women start their hike through the lush tea plantations. Reaching a peak, they stop to face out over the vast valley, link hands and sing a hopeful song about newfound freedom. Continue reading...