Summary 2

Shvachko Polina, group 17827

                The article “Macedonia MPs to Vote on Name change in Key moment for Balkans” written by Helena Smith is devoted to the discussion of the problem of Macedonia’s hesitation about whether to accept the other name  or go on with the present one.  First, the author draws the reader’s attention to the necessity of winning the majority of this referendum for the country’s PM, Zoran Zaev. Then she analyzes the renaming as the catalyst for the speedy accession to the EU. She gives an example of the conflict between Macedonian Slavs and an Albanian minority which can be solved only with the membership of NATO and EU. The author suggests that name change will improve relationships with the Greece which doesn’t accept the name “Macedonia” itself as this name used to belong one of the provinces within ancient Greek state. The author pays attention that it will be difficult for Zaev to win majorities as he faces strong opposition. Then she argues that the hope of winning the process is really small as the low population turnout is always observed in the Macedonia’s elections. In addition, there is a great possibility that the referendum will be boycotted at all. Finally, according to Zaev this referendum is especially important with the fact that Russia has started to meddle actively in the Macedonia’s business. The author concludes that if the election is held it will be a unique opportunity to unite south Europe as well as stimulate the Macedonia’s development. In the end, it is stated that it is better to take the chance which is like not to be repeated in the future.

Summary

Shvachko Polina, group 17827

According to article published in “Marie Claire” ‘’Men forced to be wives”, in northern Greece the special festival exists which lets women and men change their duties with each other just for one day.

During all the day of 8^th January, Gynaikratia, as it is called in Greece, takes place. Men are supposed to be subservient and dedicate all their time to performing what is usually supposed to be women’s household chores including scrubbing bathroom and changing nappies. If a husband rejects to do this, a wife has a right to beat him. While women always look forward for this day to be appeased, men mostly disguise this festival as they find it too humiliating to do the housework. Some of them even are teased by their friends who have already rejected to obey the rules of this celebration. However, not every Greek woman allows her husband to take responsibility for household chores as he tends to make a great mess after him, and woman’s work doubles the next day. Despite such controversial things, this festival is still held in Greece setting the women free from daily routing at least for 24 hours.