
Still reeling from the effects of the cyclone this Spring,
rats and all, Myanmar's junta has
released 9,002 prisoners in a gesture they say is full of "loving kindness and goodwill," despite the fact that many doubt political prisoners will be in those numbers. One exception, Myanmar's longest serving political prisoner, Win Tin, who has been held since 1989. The 78-year-old spoke following his release from a friend's house
saying, "I have to continue with my unfinished task of trying to achieve democracy in Myanmar."

Lots of sexy times in the UK? It appears that way, according to a new study compiled by the Poppy Project. The group, which educates about prostitution and assists victims of sex trafficking, found that
brothels have spread to "every corner" of London — some charging as little as $30, or an extra $20 for unprotected sex.

In its
World Report 2008, Human Rights Watch criticizes Europe and the US for tolerating "sham democracies" for pure self-interest. Such "sham democracies" include Pakistan, Kenya, Nigeria, and Russia, where autocratic leaders pose as Democrats while stifling basic human rights such as free press, peaceful assembly, and a civil society capable of challenging power.