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  <channel>
    <title>LinkTV World News Video Feed</title>
    <link>http://news.linktv.org</link>
    <description>Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Referendum)</description>
    <language>en-us</language>
    <pubDate>Mon, 25 Mar 2013 19:56:00 -0700</pubDate>
    <copyright>Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc.</copyright>
      <item>
        <title>Supreme Court Takes On Michigan Affirmative Action Case</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/supreme-court-takes-on-michigan-affirmative-action-case?start=0</link>
        <description>The Supreme Court will take a second look this year at affirmative action by considering a Michigan referendum passed by state voters which bars &quot;preferential treatment&quot; based on race, gender or ethnicity in the university system. An appellate court shot down the law as unconstitutional in a squeaker decision that ruled Proposal 2 axed a civil rights provision benefitting minorities. If the &amp;nbsp;decision is upheld California's ban would also be in jeopardy.</description>
        <pubDate>Mon, 25 Mar 2013 19:56:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/supreme-court-takes-on-michigan-affirmative-action-case</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-17120000/17120033/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=164a2b954bc9cf14ce3842cdfc54ea91" />
        <media:keywords>Affirmative action, Supreme Court of the United States, Michigan, Appellate court, Referendum, California, Newsy</media:keywords>
        <media:text>The Supreme Court will take a second look this year at affirmative action by considering a Michigan referendum passed by state voters which bars &quot;preferential treatment&quot; based on race, gender or ethnicity in the university system. An appellate court shot down the law as unconstitutional in a squeaker decision that ruled Proposal 2 axed a civil rights provision benefitting minorities. If the  decision is upheld California's ban would also be in jeopardy.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Zimbabwe Constitution Vote Tainted by Apathy</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/zimbabwe-constitution-vote-tainted-by-apathy?start=0</link>
        <description>Voting on Zimbabwe's new constitution has begun. The referendum is expected to receive a 'Yes' vote, approving the constitutional overhaul which would place term limits on presidential power. Zimbabwe's current president, Robert Mugabe, would not have the changes enforced retroactively.</description>
        <pubDate>Sat, 16 Mar 2013 09:52:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/zimbabwe-constitution-vote-tainted-by-apathy</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-16856000/16856291/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=c1a1a2a85c4dafbe8fa7739c2bfac26b" />
        <media:keywords>Robert Mugabe, Referendum, Zimbabwe, Term limit, Voter turnout, Zimbabwean presidential election, 2013, Harare, eNews Channel Africa</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Voting on Zimbabwe's new constitution has begun. The referendum is expected to receive a 'Yes' vote, approving the constitutional overhaul which would place term limits on presidential power. Zimbabwe's current president, Robert Mugabe, would not have the changes enforced retroactively.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>UK to Argentina: No Falklands Talks</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/uk-to-argentina-no-falklands-talks?start=0</link>
        <description>An open letter from Argentinian President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner denouncing British colonialism and calling for talks on the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands met a frosty response from the British government. David Cameron says the issue is up to the islanders, who will vote on it in March.&lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 18:32:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/uk-to-argentina-no-falklands-talks</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-15093000/15093147/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=6f01dc340fe2aa57241ddae3cbdf5003" />
        <media:keywords>Falkland Islands, Argentina, United Kingdom, David Cameron, Referendum, Falkland Islands sovereignty dispute, Falkland Islanders, Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, Sovereignty, Falklands War</media:keywords>
        <media:text>An open letter from Argentinian President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner denouncing British colonialism and calling for talks on the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands met a frosty response from the British government. David Cameron says the issue is up to the islanders, who will vote on it in March.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Egypt Approves Draft Constitution, But Complaints Continue</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egypt-approves-draft-constitution-complaints-continue?start=0</link>
        <description>Egypt's new constitution has been approved by 63.8 percent of voters in a two-round referendum, the country's top election committee has announced. But opposition figures have pointed to low voter turnout as evidence the majority of Egyptians don't want a document crafted by&amp;nbsp;Islamist supporters of President Mohamed Morsi.&amp;nbsp;The result on Tuesday, which followed votes held on December 15 and on December 22, matched an earlier unofficial tally given by Morsi's Muslim Brotherhood. &quot;We have seriously investigated all the complaints,&quot; Samir Abu al-Matti, of the Supreme Election Committee, told a news conference. Al Jazeera's Rawya Rageh reports from Cairo.</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 25 Dec 2012 11:41:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egypt-approves-draft-constitution-complaints-continue</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14958000/14958764/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=fe9e53ec182430a863d71c48b29dd623" />
        <media:keywords>Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Mohamed Morsi, Egypt, Politics of Egypt, Muslim Brotherhood, Voter turnout, Cairo, Islamism, Referendum, Egyptian Revolution</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Egypt's new constitution has been approved by 63.8 percent of voters in a two-round referendum, the country's top election committee has announced. But opposition figures have pointed to low voter turnout as evidence the majority of Egyptians don't want a document crafted by Islamist supporters of President Mohamed Morsi. The result on Tuesday, which followed votes held on December 15 and on December 22, matched an earlier unofficial tally given by Morsi's Muslim Brotherhood. &quot;We have seriously investigated all the complaints,&quot; Samir Abu al-Matti, of the Supreme Election Committee, told a news conference. Al Jazeera's Rawya Rageh reports from Cairo.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Egypt Referendum: Allegations of Violence, Irregularities Mar Vote</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egypt-referendum-allegations-of-violence-irregularities-mar-vote?start=0</link>
        <description>Egyptian voters headed to the polls on Saturday in a referendum on a controversial draft constitution. According to unofficial preliminary results, the document passed the first round with 57 percent of the vote with a turnout of just 31 percent. A second round is scheduled for this Saturday in remaining areas. A coalition of human rights groups has called for a re-run, citing thousands of complaints of violations at the polls, including a lack of full judicial supervision. Democracy Now! correspondent Sharif Abdel Kouddous reports from Cairo. &lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Mon, 17 Dec 2012 09:29:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egypt-referendum-allegations-of-violence-irregularities-mar-vote</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14771000/14771590/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=65cab833ac1b8a02fec285221dbf6445" />
        <media:keywords>Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Mohamed Morsi, Egypt, Politics of Egypt, Electoral fraud, Cairo, Muslim Brotherhood, Protest, Constitution, Referendum</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Egyptian voters headed to the polls on Saturday in a referendum on a controversial draft constitution. According to unofficial preliminary results, the document passed the first round with 57 percent of the vote with a turnout of just 31 percent. A second round is scheduled for this Saturday in remaining areas. A coalition of human rights groups has called for a re-vote, citing thousands of complaints of violations at the polls, including a lack of full judicial supervision. Democracy Now! correspondent Sharif Abdel Kouddous reports from Cairo. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Egypt: Morsi Supporters, Opponents Clash on Eve of Divisive Referendum</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egypt-morsi-supporters-opponents-clash-on-eve-of-divisive-referendum?start=0</link>
        <description>Opponents and supporters of Egyptian president Mohamed Morsi took to the streets across Egypt on the eve of a controversial constitutional referendum. In Alexandria, clashes broke out between rival camps and at least 13 people were reportedly injured. And, in Cairo, weeks of protests and violence has killed eight people and injured hundreds. Both sides are holding further rallies today in the capital. &lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:22:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egypt-morsi-supporters-opponents-clash-on-eve-of-divisive-referendum</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14729000/14729540/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=21b241295db9c412ebc3745fca3f7e16" />
        <media:keywords>Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Egypt, Mohamed Morsi, Cairo, Alexandria, Politics of Egypt, Muslim Brotherhood, Protest, President of Egypt, Mohamed ElBaradei</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Opponents and supporters of Egyptian president Mohamed Morsi took to the streets across Egypt on the eve of a controversial constitutional referendum. In Alexandria, clashes broke out between rival camps and at least 13 people were reportedly injured. And, in Cairo, weeks of protests and violence has killed eight people and injured hundreds. Both sides are holding further rallies today in the capital. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Egyptians Split over Controversial Referendum</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egyptians-split-over-controversial-referendum?start=0</link>
        <description>Egyptian voters are split ahead of the country's constitutional referendum this weekend, while the continuing protests and unrest are threatening to further destabilize the country's fragile economy. Lily Grimes reports.</description>
        <pubDate>Fri, 14 Dec 2012 07:53:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egyptians-split-over-controversial-referendum</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14725000/14725334/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=16e539059c27152d061ccc0850c4f475" />
        <media:keywords>Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Egypt, Mohamed Morsi, Politics of Egypt, Egyptian Revolution, Economy of Egypt, Muslim Brotherhood, Protest, Islamism, Tahrir Square</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Egyptian voters are split ahead of the country's constitutional referendum this weekend, while the continuing protests and unrest are threatening to further destabilize the country's fragile economy. Lily Grimes reports.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Egyptians Abroad Begin Crucial Constitution Vote</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egyptians-abroad-begin-crucial-constitution-vote?start=0</link>
        <description>Hundreds of thousands of Egyptians worldwide have begun voting on the hotly disputed draft constitution backed by Mohamed Morsi. Early voting is taking place at 150 Egyptian embassies and consulates worldwide before Egypt itself goes to the polls Saturday.&lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Thu, 13 Dec 2012 19:13:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egyptians-abroad-begin-crucial-constitution-vote</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14719000/14719901/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=60c61866326e4521670a58815b74f5d4" />
        <media:keywords>Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Egypt, Mohamed Morsi, Egyptians, Muslim Brotherhood, Politics of Egypt, Early voting, Constitution, Referendum, Voice of America</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Hundreds of thousands of Egyptians worldwide have begun voting on the hotly disputed draft constitution backed by Mohamed Morsi. Early voting is taking place at 150 Egyptian embassies and consulates worldwide before Egypt itself goes to the polls Saturday.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Egyptian Protesters Continue Revolution's Legacy on Streets of Cairo</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egyptian-protesters-continue-revolutions-legacy-on-streets-of-cairo?start=0</link>
        <description>Sharif Abdel Kouddous reports from the streets of Cairo, where thousands of people have taken to the streets in new rallies for and against a controversial referendum backed by embattled Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi. In a potential nod to the opposition, Egypt's government now says the vote will take place on Saturday, as well as one week later. Egypt's main opposition leaders are urging their supporters to vote &quot;no&quot; in the referendum instead of boycotting it. &lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Wed, 12 Dec 2012 09:13:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egyptian-protesters-continue-revolutions-legacy-on-streets-of-cairo</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14697000/14697814/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=9a6190bd96540bb3c92ec57479d27301" />
        <media:keywords>Egypt, Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Mohamed Morsi, Politics of Egypt, Muslim Brotherhood, Cairo, Egyptian Army, Egyptian Revolution, Protest, President of Egypt</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Sharif Abdel Kouddous reports from the streets of Cairo, where thousands of people have taken to the streets in new rallies for and against a controversial referendum backed by embattled Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi. In a potential nod to the opposition, Egypt's government now says the vote will take place on Saturday, as well as one week later. Egypt's main opposition leaders are urging their supporters to vote &quot;no&quot; in the referendum instead of boycotting it. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Rival Rallies Battle for Egypt's Future</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/rival-rallies-battle-for-egypts-future?start=0</link>
        <description>Thousands of supporters and opponents of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi have been gathering on the streets of Cairo.

They have also been staging demonstrations over the country's disputed draft constitution - which is due to be 
voted on in a referendum on Saturday.

Al Jazeera's Rory Challands reports from Cairo.</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 11 Dec 2012 18:01:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/rival-rallies-battle-for-egypts-future</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14687000/14687708/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=1b9f4fcba61e4e0211cd9d5755f5279d" />
        <media:keywords>Egypt, Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Mohamed Morsi, Muslim Brotherhood, Protest, Politics of Egypt, Egyptian Revolution, Egyptian Army, Cairo, President of Egypt</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Thousands of supporters and opponents of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi have been gathering on the streets of Cairo. They have also been staging demonstrations over the country's disputed draft constitution -- which is due to be voted on in a referendum on Saturday. Al Jazeera's Rory Challands reports from Cairo.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>'Protest Here Is Vigorous': Unrest, Polarization Before Egypt's Referendum</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/protest-here-is-vigorous-unrest-polarization-before-egypts-referendum?start=0</link>
        <description>Egypt is bracing for new protests today over President Mohamed Morsi's hotly contested effort to hold a referendum on a controversial draft constitution. Ahead of today's rallies, masked gunmen attacked opposition protesters camped out in Tahrir Square overnight, injuring more than a dozen. At least seven people have died in clashes and hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets since Morsi unilaterally expanded his powers last month. Sharif Abdel Kouddous files a report from Cairo for Democracy Now! In this video, he interviews Gehad El-Haddad, a senior adviser to the Muslim Brotherhood; American University Professor Khaled Fahmy; National Salvation Front spokesman Khaled Dawoud; writer Ahmed Shokr; and several demonstrators. &lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 11 Dec 2012 10:01:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/protest-here-is-vigorous-unrest-polarization-before-egypts-referendum</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14678000/14678537/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=343e30ea7c1615958efe828ba7f674eb" />
        <media:keywords>Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Egypt, Tahrir Square, Mohamed Morsi, Politics of Egypt, Muslim Brotherhood, Egyptian Revolution, Constituent assembly, Protest, Protest camp</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Egypt is bracing for new protests today over President Mohamed Morsi's hotly contested effort to hold a referendum on a controversial draft constitution. Ahead of today's rallies, masked gunmen attacked opposition protesters camped out in Tahrir Square overnight, injuring more than a dozen. At least seven people have died in clashes and hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets since Morsi unilaterally expanded his powers last month. Sharif Abdel Kouddous files a report from Cairo for Democracy Now! In this video, he interviews Gehad El-Haddad, a senior adviser to the Muslim Brotherhood; American University Professor Khaled Fahmy; National Salvation Front spokesman Khaled Dawoud; writer Ahmed Shokr; and several demonstrators. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Egypt: Morsi Hands Military New Powers Ahead of Key Vote</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egypt-morsi-hands-military-new-powers-ahead-of-key-vote?start=0</link>
        <description>Egypt's military is once again playing a more active role since handing over power in June, with President Mohammed Morsi giving them the authority to arrest civilians. The military has been told to coordinate with police in order to keep the peace during the country's constitutional referendum, due to take place on Saturday. The draft referendum has sparked days of protests. &lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Mon, 10 Dec 2012 09:09:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egypt-morsi-hands-military-new-powers-ahead-of-key-vote</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14661000/14661777/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=627ebbd0fb2995015adc9f1fcc789f4a" />
        <media:keywords>Egyptian constitutional referendum, 2012, Mohamed Morsi, Egyptian Army, Egypt, Protest, Muslim Brotherhood, Politics of Egypt, Cairo, Egyptian Revolution, Referendum</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Egypt's military is once again playing a more active role since handing over power in June, with President Mohammed Morsi giving them the authority to arrest civilians. The military has been told to coordinate with police in order to keep the peace during the country's constitutional referendum, due to take place on Saturday. The draft referendum has sparked days of protests. Demonstrators complain the proposed referendum, which was largely put together by Morsi's Islamist allies, undermines human rights, the rights of women and religious minorities, and curtails the independence of the judiciary. Protesters are also unsatisfied with the president's latest declaration, reversing the wide-ranging powers Morsi gave himself. From outside the presidential palace in Cairo, protester Hesham Ezat said: &quot;The new constitutional declaration cancelled the first one, but at the same time, it contained the same statements as the previous one. He is playing with us and trying to gain time until the referendum.&quot; Morsi is being accused of already using the powers to push through the draft constitution. Protesters may be even angrier about the military getting more powers - no matter how temporary.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>As Opposition Digs In, Can Morsi Regain Credibility?</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/as-divisions-dig-in-can-morsi-regain-credibility?start=0</link>
        <description>Opposition activists show no signs of letting up their protests against Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi, even after he called off a controversial decree that gave him sweeping presidential powers. Can he rebuild faith in Egyptian voters, or has his chance already passed?</description>
        <pubDate>Sun, 09 Dec 2012 16:32:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/as-divisions-dig-in-can-morsi-regain-credibility</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14651000/14651202/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=e1a0e02ef97761f110a186262d226cd9" />
        <media:keywords>President of Egypt, Mohamed Morsi, Politics of Egypt, Cairo, Egypt, Referendum, Constitution, Egyptian Revolution, Al Jazeera English, Middle East</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Opposition activists show no signs of letting up their protests against Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi, even after he called off a controversial decree that gave him sweeping presidential powers. Can he rebuild faith in Egyptian voters, or has his chance already passed?</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Protests Continue as Egypt Prepares for Controversial Referendum</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/protests-continue-as-egypt-prepares-for-controversial-referendum?start=0</link>
        <description>Egypt is set to hold a referendum this week on a highly-contentious draft constitution. President Mohammed Morsi's top legal adviser says Egyptian judges will oversee the vote, even though they're on strike. &lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Mon, 03 Dec 2012 09:26:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/protests-continue-as-egypt-prepares-for-controversial-referendum</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14449000/14449335/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=8127bdd2022b56d1f9cd48a6fd700c9f" />
        <media:keywords>Egypt, Mohamed Morsi, Muslim Brotherhood, Politics of Egypt, Referendum, Tahrir Square, Protest, Egyptian Revolution, Egyptian constitutional review committee, Constitution</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Egypt is set to hold a referendum this week on a highly-contentious draft constitution. President Mohammed Morsi's top legal adviser says Egyptian judges will oversee the vote, even though they're on strike. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Here's the Dope on Legal Pot</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/heres-the-dope-on-legal-pot?start=0</link>
        <description>So what's the story now that marijuana is legal in Washington state and Colorado? Seattle police have put together this helpful guide for inquiring tokers. Once you're 21, &quot;Smoke 'em if you got 'em,&quot; urges the video spokesman with an almost totally straight face.</description>
        <pubDate>Sun, 18 Nov 2012 19:48:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/heres-the-dope-on-legal-pot</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-14239000/14239728/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=78e3c089342484e57df6e8daba20a9bd" />
        <media:keywords>Legality of cannabis, Cannabis (drug), Referendum, Seattle, Washington Initiative 502, Washington (U.S. state), Colorado, United States, Reuters</media:keywords>
        <media:text>So what's the story now that marijuana is legal in Washington state and Colorado? Seattle police have put together this helpful guide for inquiring tokers. Once you're 21, &quot;Smoke 'em if you got 'em,&quot; urges the video spokesman with an almost totally straight face.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Puerto Rico Votes in Favor of Statehood, but Result not Clear-Cut</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/puerto-rico-votes-in-favor-of-statehood-but-results-not-clear-cut?start=0</link>
        <description>For the first time in Puerto Rico's history, a majority of the island's voters have supported a non-binding referendum to become a full US state. President Obama has said he will respect the vote, but Democracy Now! co-host Juan Gonz&amp;aacute;lez says the result may not be as clear-cut as it first appears.&lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Thu, 08 Nov 2012 11:12:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/puerto-rico-votes-in-favor-of-statehood-but-results-not-clear-cut</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-13724000/13724950/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=f4c835e920ada36803525974e3fde8e2" />
        <media:keywords>Puerto Rican status referendum, 2012, Puerto Rico, 51st state, Puerto Rico statehood movement, Barack Obama, Political status of Puerto Rico, US state, Politics of the United States, Referendum, US Congress</media:keywords>
        <media:text>For the first time in Puerto Rico's history, a majority of the island's voters have supported a non-binding referendum to become a full US state. President Obama has said he will respect the vote, but Democracy Now! co-host Juan González says the result may not be as clear-cut as it first appears.

----

For the For the first time in Puerto Rico's history, a majority of the island's voters have supported a non-binding referendum to become a full US state. The measure will require approval from the US Congress, but President Obama has said he will respect the vote. Obama made the same promise last year when visited the island, becoming the first sitting US president in half a century to do so. If Puerto Rico becomes the 51st state, its residents will have the right to vote in all US elections, but will also have to start to pay federal taxes. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Scotland to Vote on Independence</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/scotland-to-vote-on-independence?start=0</link>
        <description>In a groundbreaking development, Scottish voters will choose in a 2014 referendum on whether to break away from the UK and become independent. The vote was agreed to yesterday by British Prime Minister David Cameron and Scottish National Party leader Alex Salmond, who's confident independence will win the day.</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:36:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/scotland-to-vote-on-independence</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-12246000/12246551/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=f1fb16f4eeeaffcdbc37fc69b26a8ff8" />
        <media:keywords>Scottish National Party, Scottish independence, Alex Salmond, Scotland, United Kingdom, David Cameron, Independence referendum, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Economy of Scotland, Referendum</media:keywords>
        <media:text>In a groundbreaking development, Scottish voters will choose in a 2014 referendum on whether to break away from the UK and become independent. The vote was agreed to yesterday by British Prime Minister David Cameron and Scottish National Party leader Alex Salmond, who's confident independence will win the day.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Egyptians Unite Against Military, But Are Protestors Ignoring the Real Enemy?</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egyptians-unite-against-military-but-are-protestors-ignoring-the-real-enemy?start=0</link>
        <description>Thousands of Egyptians are back on the streets of Cairo, united in their opposition to military rule and demanding the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces hands over power to a civilian government. But are they focused on the wrong enemy?</description>
        <pubDate>Fri, 22 Jun 2012 08:41:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/egyptians-unite-against-military-but-are-protestors-ignoring-the-real-enemy</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-6034000/6034491/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=dee67e6aa7244c2ca8e4a818d563ca31" />
        <media:keywords>Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, Supreme Constitutional Court of Egypt, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Egyptian Revolution, Egypt, Mohamed Morsi, Ahmed Shafiq, Muslim Brotherhood, Protest, Constitutional amendment</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Thousands of Egyptians are back on the streets of Cairo, as revolutionary groups and supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood unite in their opposition to military rule. They want the parliament reinstated and the ruling military council to hand over power to the new president. But, as Al Jazeera's Mike Hanna reports from Cairo, they may be focused on the wrong enemy.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Scottish Nationalists Launch Independence Campaign</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/scottish-nationalists-launch-independence-campaign?start=0</link>
        <description>Pro-independence supporters launched the campaign they hoped would convince their fellow Scots to vote yes to independence in an upcoming referendum on the issue. The UK government is opposing the move and is braced for a bitter battle.</description>
        <pubDate>Mon, 11 Jun 2012 12:07:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/scottish-nationalists-launch-independence-campaign</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-5469000/5469530/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=93e9c725775439ff0ff30958404972c5" />
        <media:keywords>Scottish independence, Scottish National Party, Scotland, Independence referendum, UK Government, Alex Salmond, Politics of the United Kingdom, Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II, Humza Yousaf, United Kingdom</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Pro-independence supporters launched the campaign they hoped would convince their fellow Scots to vote yes to independence in the upcoming referendum on the issue. The British government is opposing the move and is braced for a bitter battle to keep Scotland a part of the Union Kingdom. Amina Taylor reports</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Is Libya in Danger of Splitting Apart?</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/is-libya-in-danger-of-splitting-apart?start=0</link>
        <description>Tribal leaders and militia commanders in oil-rich eastern Libya have declared their intention to seek semi-autonomy, raising fears that the country might disintegrate despite opposition from Libya's interim central government in Tripoli.</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:49:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/is-libya-in-danger-of-splitting-apart</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-1449000/1449744/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=c3de2528792d29cb4962468205e86c84" />
        <media:keywords>Benghazi, Libya, Cyrenaica, National Transitional Council, Oil reserves in Libya, Referendum, Tripoli, 2011 Libyan Uprising, Libyan rebel forces, Federalism</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Tribal leaders and militia commanders in oil-rich eastern Libya have declared their intention to seek semi-autonomy, raising fears that the country might disintegrate following the fall of Muammar Gaddafi. Libya's National Transitional Council (NTC), the interim central government based in the capital Tripoli, has repeatedly voiced its opposition to the creation of a partly autonomous eastern region, warning it could eventually lead to the break-up of the North African nation. Al Jazeera's Nicole Johnston reports from Tripoli.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Syria: Referendum Held Amid Continuing Bloodshed and Violence</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-referendum-held-amid-continuing-bloodshed-and-violence?start=0</link>
        <description>Syrian military shelling has continued on the city of Homs as a referendum boycotted by opposition parties approved a new constitution proposed by president Bashar al-Assad.</description>
        <pubDate>Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:50:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-referendum-held-amid-continuing-bloodshed-and-violence</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-1156000/1156617/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=b7a5f5341e0a23f2f4560bd6d5295f22" />
        <media:keywords>Bashar al-Assad, Syria, Homs, Syrian Civil War, Siege of Homs, Referendum, Protest, Civilian casualties, Syrian National Council, Constitution</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Syrian military shelling has continued on the city of Homs as a referendum boycotted by opposition parties approved a new constitution proposed by president Bashar al-Assad.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Syrian Army Launches Assault on Daraa</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-army-launches-assault-on-daraa?start=0</link>
        <description>In Syria, residents of Daraa report that government troops have launched a bombardment against rebels there. It came a day after President Bashar al-Assad promised a referendum on a new constitution.</description>
        <pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 07:57:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-army-launches-assault-on-daraa</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-772000/772487/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=4eec4e1b6e0c9ce966f7f1ea6a237442" />
        <media:keywords>Daraa, Syria, Syrian army, Syrian Civil War, Bashar al-Assad, Artillery, UN Security Council Resolution, China, France, Russia</media:keywords>
        <media:text>In Syria, residents of Daraa report that government troops have launched a bombardment against rebels trying to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad. It came a day after Assad promised a referendum on a new constitution and multi-party elections within three months. The reported attack coincided with an article in an influential Chinese newspaper, claiming foreign meddling in Syria risked stirring up yet more bloodshed and instability in the region.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Syria's Assad Announces Referendum, as Homs Assault Continues</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrias-assad-announces-referendum-as-homs-assault-continues?start=0</link>
        <description>Bashar al-Assad says a referendum on a draft constitution will be held in less than two weeks, while Syrian government troops stormed parts of the capital Damascus and stepped up their ongoing assault in Homs and other areas of protest. </description>
        <pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:38:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrias-assad-announces-referendum-as-homs-assault-continues</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-734000/734907/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=12b263b727b756523eacde0f5ea83d98" />
        <media:keywords>Bashar al-Assad, Syria, Siege of Homs, Syrian Civil War, Damascus, Homs, Referendum, UN General Assembly, Non-binding resolution, Syrian army</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says a referendum on a draft constitution will be held in less than two weeks with parliamentary elections to follow in 90 days. His proposals would limit presidents to two seven-year terms and end one-party rule in the country. Meanwhile, government troops stormed parts of the capital Damascus and stepped up their ongoing assault in Homs and other areas of protest. At the UN, a new, non-binding resolution calling for an end to violence has been tabled by Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Russia and China will likely vote against it, but this time they have no power of veto.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Scotland's First Minister Announces Independence Referendum Plans</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/scotlands-first-minister-announces-independence-referendum-plans?start=0</link>
        <description>The Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond proposes that Scots be asked &quot;Do you agree that Scotland should be an independent country?&quot; when independence is put to the vote.</description>
        <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:47:00 -0800</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/scotlands-first-minister-announces-independence-referendum-plans</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-316000/316297/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=b14a71934897efbdd540580ce18aac72" />
        <media:keywords>Scottish independence, Scotland, Alex Salmond, Referendum, First Minister of Scotland, Scottish Parliament, Scottish National Party, Independence, Raw video, United Kingdom</media:keywords>
        <media:text>The Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond proposes that Scots be asked &quot;Do you agree that Scotland should be an independent country?&quot; when independence is put to the vote.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Greek PM Ready to Withdraw Referendum Plan</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greek-pm-ready-to-withdraw-referendum-plan?start=0</link>
        <description>Greek prime minister George Papandreou has announced he is prepared to drop the idea of a referendum on a vital bailout package and hold talks with the opposition as he battles to stay in power in the face of mounting opposition at home and abroad.</description>
        <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:49:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greek-pm-ready-to-withdraw-referendum-plan</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-312000/312659/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=174f224d871e0c1a2b4b7c656eb2bb37" />
        <media:keywords>George Papandreou, Greece, European sovereign debt crisis, Referendum, Bailout, Politics of Greece, Coalition government, Resignation, Economy of Greece, Evangelos Venizelos</media:keywords>
        <media:text>The Greek prime minister has announced he is prepared to drop the idea of a referendum on a vital bailout package and hold talks with the opposition to resolve the country's political and economic crisis. In a speech to his cabinet on Thursday, George Papandreou said he would assign the task of discussions with the opposition to two senior party members and praised their support of the bailout deal. If the opposition agreed to back the deal in parliament no referendum would have to be held. Al Jazeera Jonah Hull explains.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Greek Government Teeters, Lawmakers Urge PM to Resign</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greek-government-teeters-lawmakers-urge-pm-to-resign?start=0</link>
        <description>Demands mounted Thursday for Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou to resign and let a coalition government approve a European bailout plan instead of holding a risky referendum on it. </description>
        <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:48:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greek-government-teeters-lawmakers-urge-pm-to-resign</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-312000/312656/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=93e67b70287c3ca2b860241ee34e2683" />
        <media:keywords>George Papandreou, Greece, European sovereign debt crisis, Referendum, Resignation, Bailout, Politics of Greece, Coalition government, Motion of no confidence, Economy of Greece</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Demands mounted Thursday for Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou to resign and let a coalition government approve a European bailout plan instead of holding a risky referendum on it. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Surprise Military Shake-Up Adds to Greek Turmoil</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/surprise-military-shake-up-adds-to-greek-turmoil?start=0</link>
        <description>Greece's army, navy, and air force chiefs are being replaced in a major military re-shuffle. The move has added to a growing sense of chaos in Greece, as increasingly isolated prime minister George Papandreou fights for his political future.</description>
        <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/surprise-military-shake-up-adds-to-greek-turmoil</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-312000/312627/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=316c1b5c26ada34b6901e89753afe1e7" />
        <media:keywords>Greece, European sovereign debt crisis, George Papandreou, Military of Greece, Politics of Greece, Minister for National Defence (Greece), Hellenic Army, Hellenic Navy, Hellenic Air Force, Referendum</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Greece's army, navy, and air force chiefs are being replaced in a major military re-shuffle. The move has added to a growing sense of chaos in Greece, with the defense minister offering no explanation, and opposition figures slamming the move as politically motivated. Meanwhile, a crisis cabinet meeting in Greece went on until the early hours and it was far from plain sailing for the increasingly isolated prime minister, George Papandreou. Government sources said some around the table questioned the timing of the referendum called on the latest bailout deal for Greece, while a handful were openly against it. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Greek Government on the Brink of Collapse</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greek-government-on-the-brink-of-collapse?start=0</link>
        <description>Greek Prime Minister, George Papandreou announced that he would be holding a referendum on the bail-out package -- a surprise to his own party, his people, and to all of Europe. The reaction in Athens is one of cynicism and despair.</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:21:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greek-government-on-the-brink-of-collapse</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-312000/312601/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=e7d881851d05add20f5f4a97dce3983e" />
        <media:keywords>Greece, European sovereign debt crisis, George Papandreou, Bailout, Referendum, Politics of Greece, 2010-2012 Greek Protests, Default, Anti-austerity protests, Economy of Greece</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Greek Prime Minister, George Papandreou announced that he would be holding a referendum on the bail-out package -- a surprise to his own party, his people, and to all of Europe. Rumors and questions as to why Papandreou made the surprise move are rife, but the minister is keeping his counsel for now. With concern that the referendum would be unlikely to take place before January, creating months of uncertainty for the markets, the mood in Athens is one of cynicism and despair. Al Jazeera's Barnaby Phillips reports from Athens.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Greek PM Risks Everything on Referendum</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greek-pm-risks-everything-on-referendum?start=0</link>
        <description>Less than a week after French and German leaders brokered yet another debt deal for the nation, Athens is now putting the plan, including a proposed 50 per cent write down of Greek debt through a referendum to be voted on by the people.  However, the eurozone deal is not the only thing George Papandreou is putting on the line in the impending vote. With only a three-seat majority in the parliament, the prime minister is also putting his own leadership to the test with a confidence vote.  Despite on-going protests, the Greek people themselves say they want to remain in the European Union but that the eurozone nations were more focused on the nation's ailing banks and less on the Greek people themselves.  Al Jazeera's Rory Challands reports.</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 09:09:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greek-pm-risks-everything-on-referendum</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-312000/312598/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=664844bb51002e7a382fefd5a9c18f6b" />
        <media:keywords>Greece, European sovereign debt crisis, George Papandreou, Referendum, Bailout, 2010-2012 Greek Protests, Politics of Greece, Anti-austerity protests, Economy of Greece, European Union</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Less than a week after French and German leaders brokered yet another debt deal for the nation, Athens is now putting the plan, including a proposed 50 per cent write down of Greek debt through a referendum to be voted on by the people. However, the eurozone deal is not the only thing George Papandreou is putting on the line in the impending vote. With only a three-seat majority in the parliament, the prime minister is also putting his own leadership to the test with a confidence vote. Despite on-going protests, the Greek people themselves say they want to remain in the European Union but that the eurozone nations were more focused on the nation's ailing banks and less on the Greek people themselves. Al Jazeera's Rory Challands reports.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>'It Is Too Late': Greeks React to Bailout Referendum Proposal</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/it-is-too-late-greeks-react-to-referendum-plan?start=0</link>
        <description>&quot;If the Greek people don't want it... it won't be implemented,&quot; says Greek PM George Papandreou of the EU's latest rescue loan for his debt-hit country. But, with the package including more state spending cuts, most Greeks are taking a negative view of the deal. </description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:55:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/it-is-too-late-greeks-react-to-referendum-plan</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-312000/312597/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=ae774a3cddde4d3ae2682bd2a1d89f77" />
        <media:keywords>Greece, European sovereign debt crisis, George Papandreou, Referendum, Bailout, 2010-2012 Greek Protests, Anti-austerity protests, European Union, Opinion poll, Eurozone</media:keywords>
        <media:text>&quot;If the Greek people don't want it... it won't be implemented.&quot; So said Prime Minister George Papandreou, as he called a referendum on the EU's latest rescue loan for his debt-hit country. But with the price of the package coming in the form of more and harsher state spending cuts, analysts say the latest opinion poll shows most Greeks take a negative view of the deal. &quot;The referendum should not be happening now,&quot; said Athens resident Adamantia. &quot;Now it is too late. What is he trying to tell us with this?&quot;</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Greece Shocks Europe with Bailout Referendum</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greece-shocks-europe-with-bailout-referendum?start=0</link>
        <description>Greek PM George Papandreou has shocked Europe and sent markets into freefall by announcing a referendum on accepting the latest bailout package from the EU, which comes with strict austerity requirements.</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:36:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/greece-shocks-europe-with-bailout-referendum</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-312000/312596/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=e67250d855708ecf3c7cb28d50b16db9" />
        <media:keywords>Greece, European sovereign debt crisis, George Papandreou, Referendum, Bailout, Austerity, 2010-2012 Greek Protests, Politics of Greece, Anti-austerity protests, Economy of Greece</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Greece's prime minister George Papandreou has shocked Europe and the markets by announcing a referendum on accepting the latest bailout package, which comes with strict austerity requirements.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>UN declares South Sudan as 193rd member [Press TV, Iran]</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071411-world-news-from-the-middle-east?start=473</link>
        <description>Afghan civilian death toll hits record high, Syrian security crackdown targets artists and intellectuals, the Yemeni people accuse Saudi Arabia of sowing chaos in their country, and more.&lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071411-world-news-from-the-middle-east</guid>
        <enclosure url="http://download.news.linktv.org/mosaic-news-071411-world-news-from-the-middle-east-396.mp4" length="239636104" type="video/mp4" />
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-235000/235698/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=068289d8dc4df0d0bbddec2957739adb" />
        <media:keywords>Syria, UN General Assembly, Sudan, Israel, Syrian Civil War, Damascus, Deir az-Zour, Afghanistan, Yemen, Bahrain</media:keywords>
        <media:text>The United Nations has formally announced South Sudan's ascent to the international body. The UN General Assembly approved Africa?s youngest country as its 193rd member. South Sudan, with eight million people, split away from the north on July 9.Its independence came after 98% of its population voted for its secession in January. The referendum was held under a peace deal reached in 2005 to end a North-South civil war. Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir has called for positive relations with the newly established Republic of South Sudan. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Moroccans vote on king's new constitution [BBC Arabic, UK] </title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-070111-world-news-from-the-middle-east?start=710</link>
        <description>Yemeni protestors call for &quot;Revolution until Victory,&quot; rival demonstrations mark Friday of departure and of national unity in Syria, Egyptians in Tahrir Square demand retribution for January 25 martyrs, and more.</description>
        <pubDate>Sun, 03 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-070111-world-news-from-the-middle-east</guid>
        <enclosure url="http://download.news.linktv.org/mosaic-news-070111-world-news-from-the-middle-east-350.mp4" length="283016559" type="video/mp4" />
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-163000/163397/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=676c5ad38c2f981afee963ecbb7ad952" />
        <media:keywords>Protest, Syria, Bashar al-Assad, Yemen, Hezbollah, Libya, Gaza, Iraq, UN Security Council, Egypt</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Presenter, Male # 1 
In Morocco, ballots boxes were opened today for the nearly 13 million registered voters. They are to vote on a referendum on a new constitution for the country. Moroccan authorities, official media organizations, the most prominent political parties, and major unions called for voting &quot;yes&quot; on the referendum. On the other hand, the February 20 Movement, that rejects the constitutional amendments, called on its supporters to boycott the referendum. 

Reporter, Female # 1
Over 13 million Moroccans were invited to participate in a referendum on constitutional reforms proposed by Morocco's monarch, King Mohammed VI, who vowed to implement additional democratic principles. As polling stations opened, dozens of people voted in a school in Sala, near Rabat. Nearly 40,000 polling stations were readied across the country and 520 stations in embassies and consulates around the world to allow Moroccans to participate in the referendum. Experts on domestic issues believe that the king, who has been ruling the country since 1999, is confident of the implementation of the amendments he proposed, despite the opposition and the calls to boycott the referendum. The king stated in a speech to the nation on June 27 that the plan to review the Moroccan constitution strengthens the foundations of a democratic constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. The new constitution grants the government executive powers. However, the king would remain as the army's chief and maintain his religious and judicial powers. The king would also still be able to dissolve parliament, but he would no longer be able to do so single-handedly.  The 47-year-old king has attained some success in reforming Morocco in terms of human rights violations, illiteracy, and poverty after his father's 38-year rule came to an end. However, his popularity seems to be oscillating between supporters and opposition members. Some view the divide as that of rich versus the poor and blame the political elite's monopoly on the political arena. The opposition says the amendments proposed by the king are insufficient and that its timing does not allow Moroccans to review the proposal. They confirm their battle will continue until a parliamentary monarchy is established and the king's powers are further reduced. They say he is still holding on to the reigns of power. Yolla Zahr el-Dine, BBC.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Moroccans react to the king's proposed constitutional reforms [New TV, Lebanon]</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062811-world-news-from-the-middle-east?start=1084</link>
        <description>Sudan's Bashir defies ICC arrest warrant with visit to China, Russia warns Syria against descending into a Libya-style war, Moroccans react to the king's proposed constitutional reforms, and more.&lt;br /&gt;</description>
        <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062811-world-news-from-the-middle-east</guid>
        <enclosure url="http://download.news.linktv.org/mosaic-news-062811-world-news-from-the-middle-east-321.mp4" length="284650305" type="video/mp4" />
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-113000/113768/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=f0c85717086266184e5f3ca9ea5fca1c" />
        <media:keywords>Israel, Protest, Palestinians, Syria, International Criminal Court, Israeli-occupied territories, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Libya, Omar al-Bashir</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Presenter, Male #1  
The February 20th Movement is returning to the streets to reject the new constitution.  

Report, Female #1
The February 20th movement reappeared in demonstrations in Moroccan cities with participation from thousands of people rejecting the constitutional amendments proposed by King Mohamed VI. They believe the amendments did not sufficiently reduce the king's authority. Dozens of riot police dispersed protestors with batons in the capital Rabat. These demonstrations took place days before the referendum on reforms, scheduled for July 1st. At the same time, demonstrations in favor of the new constitution were also held as the Moroccan authorities ordered preachers of mosques to urge worshipers to vote for the reforms, claiming that the king does not tolerate violation of the Islamic religion. The preachers described the king as a &quot;commissioner from God.&quot; The new constitution still maintains the king's right to appoint the prime minister, who must be chosen from the political party that wins in the parliamentary elections. It also reaffirms the king's right to veto a minister and the right to propose ending his term. The amendments give the government explicit executive authority but the king remains the head of the army and retains religious and judicial authority. The new constitution still allows the king to dismantle parliament, even though the current constitution does not stipulate this right for him separately. </media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Italy PM Berlusconi suffers referendum defeat‎</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/italy-pm-berlusconi-suffers-referendum-defeat?start=0</link>
        <description>Italians were celebrating in Rome after voters dealt premier Silvio Berlusconi a serious blow on Monday, overturning laws passed by his government to revive nuclear energy, privatise the water supply, and help him avoid prosecution. </description>
        <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/italy-pm-berlusconi-suffers-referendum-defeat</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-53000/53808/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=7690a21547e3d071c2784542345eecba" />
        <media:keywords>Silvio Berlusconi, Italy, Referendum, Nuclear power, Nuclear power in Italy, Water privatization, Rome, Politics of Italy, Alan Fisher, Al Jazeera English</media:keywords>
        <media:text>Italians were celebrating in Rome after voters dealt premier Silvio Berlusconi a serious political blow on Monday, overturning laws passed by his government to revive nuclear energy, privatise the water supply and help him avoid prosecution. Partial results from referendums on Monday showed clear majorities to throw out a water privatisation law, kill a law reviving nuclear energy and undo legislation offering the Italian leader a partial legal shield in criminal prosecutions. Voter turnout topped 57 per cent - safely above the 51 per cent needed to validate the vote. It is the first time since 1995 that a quorum has been reached. Anti-nuclear activists were celebrating in central Rome as the partial results were announced. Al Jazeera's Alan Fisher reports from Rome.</media:text>
      </item>
      <item>
        <title>Italy's referendum now &quot;politically charged&quot;</title>
        <link>http://news.linktv.org/videos/italys-referendum-now-politically-charged?start=0</link>
        <description>This weekend's vote on re-introducing nuclear energy to help lower power costs may instead become a referendum on Silvio Berlusconi's ruling coalition.</description>
        <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jun 2011 16:30:00 -0700</pubDate>
        <guid>http://news.linktv.org/videos/italys-referendum-now-politically-charged</guid>
        <media:thumbnail url="http://news.linktv.org/images/image_cache/base-48000/48969/thumbnail.width=640,height=360,grow=1,crop=center.jpg?sig=5347d935baf55bde309da43135ff54b9" />
        <media:keywords>Italy, Nuclear power, Referendum, Silvio Berlusconi, Nuclear power in Italy, Environment, Center-right, Euronews</media:keywords>
        <media:text>This weekend's referendum on, among other things, nuclear power in Italy is unlikely to have an immediate impact on the sector, according to analysts. Rome banned nuclear power generation in 1987, in the wake of the accident at Chernobyl.There has been a moratorium on its reintroduction since the Fukushima crisis, which began in March. The centre-right governing coalition of Silvio Berlusconi wants to re-introduce nuclear energy to help lower power costs and render supplies more secure. </media:text>
      </item>
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