sen. Ben Cardin The european union

Russia [has] sought to erode support for EU institutions by . . . using the very strengths of Europe’s democratic societies — free press, civil society and open debate — against it. The EU and US should work together on affirmative messaging that clearly and unequivocally states our shared values.

The Guardian, Feb. 3, on the need for the US to support the European Union.

Thomas L. Friedman social media

We’ve been treated to a number of “Facebook revolutions,’’ all fueled by social media. But most of these revolutions failed to build any sustainable new political order, in part because, as so many voices got amplified, consensus-building became impossible. Question: Does it turn out that social media is better at breaking things than at making things?

The New York Times, Feb. 3, on the role of social media in lasting regime change.

melinda gates Family planninG

If we continue at current rates, we will fall short of our goal, breaking our promise to millions of women. These 120 million women and girls are counting on us to keep our promise. We need to get back on track now.

The Huffington Post, Feb. 3, on providing family planning services worldwide.