#Data-Driven Policy

[thabisonjoko]

Building Eswatini’s Future Through Data: Day 1 of the ATO Trade in Services Workshop

By Thabiso Njoko

Mbabane, Eswatini — April 8, 2025

It’s not every day that a room full of economists, statisticians, tourism operators, government officials, and academics come together with a shared purpose: building a smarter, data-driven future for Eswatini.

That’s exactly what happened on Day 1 of the African Trade Observatory (ATO) Trade in Services Workshop, hosted in Mbabane and facilitated by two powerhouse experts from the International Trade Centre (ITC)—Katerina Blanchard and Christophe Durand.

With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gaining momentum, countries like Eswatini are looking to strengthen their trade systems, not just in goods, but also in services. And it all begins with data—clean, clear, internationally aligned data.

From Concepts to Conversations: Setting the Tone for Trade Intelligence

The day began with a warm welcome and a walkthrough of the ATO project, where Blanchard and Durand laid out the bigger picture: why travel services data matters and how it fits into Eswatini’s national development goals.

The sessions dove into:

Defining “travel” versus “tourism” from both statistical and practical lenses

The Residence Principle—a foundational but often misunderstood concept in trade statistics

Balance of Payments (BPM6) and EBOPS 2010 classifications

Real-life case studies that sparked rich discussions and raised important questions about current practices

As Christophe Durand put it, “Trade in services is about people moving, not just products. We’re talking about students, patients, business travelers, seasonal workers—it’s personal, and that makes it complex.”

Katerina Blanchard echoed the sentiment: “Eswatini is in a unique position. By investing in better data now, you gain leverage—not only for planning and development but also for negotiating within AfCFTA frameworks.”

Who Was in the Room? Everyone Who Matters.

One of the day’s highlights was the diversity of participants. The workshop brought together 35+ representatives from across the country’s trade, tourism, and statistical landscape.

Here are just a few of the stakeholders who contributed to the vibrant Day 1 dialogue:

Central Bank of Eswatini

Eswatini Tourism Authority

Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade

University of Eswatini

Melula Travel

Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority

Community-Based Tourism (with insights from Thabiso Njoko)

Hospitality and Tourism Association of Eswatini (HOTAES)

Tour Operators Association

Eswatini Revenue Services

Limkokwing University of Creative Technology

Happy Valley Hotel, Eswatini Air, and TransMagnific Shuttle Services

It was a rare space where data experts and on-the-ground tourism operators could share insights, challenge assumptions, and build mutual understanding.

Why Day 1 Mattered

Travel services may not always grab headlines, but they are one of the most economically significant and statistically challenging areas of trade. Understanding how to classify a student’s overseas expenses, or what a tour guide earns from a foreign visitor, can directly impact how a country tracks its economic health.

And for Eswatini, this workshop is more than a learning opportunity—it’s a launching pad for policy-shaping, opportunity-mapping, and evidence-based growth.

What’s Next?

As the workshop continues, participants will explore data sources, survey best practices, and metadata systems. There’s also a strong focus on dissemination, ensuring data doesn’t just sit in a report—but actually informs decisions and drives change.

By the end of this week, Eswatini will be better equipped to tell its trade-in-services story—not just to itself, but to Africa, and the world.

And that’s the power of Day 1.

Want to follow the journey or learn more about ATO? Visit ato.africa

Connect with the facilitators: Christophe Durand, Katerina Blanchard

[lrufrano]

What Are the Main Advantages of Using Data to Inform Public Policy?

In the rapidly changing world of today, where societal issues are becoming more complex, data-driven public policy is becoming a revolutionary method of government. Modern politicians are increasingly using data to measure results, inform decisions, and improve methods rather than depending only on tradition, dogma, or intuition. However, what are the main advantages of implementing data-driven public policy?

Better Ability to Make Decisions

The ability to make better decisions is at the core of data-driven public policy. Policymakers can gain a better understanding of the ramifications of different policy decisions by examining statistical models, trends, and massive datasets. This evidence-based strategy guarantees that initiatives are founded on reality and minimizes uncertainty.

Greater Transparency and Accountability

Data makes it easy to see what is and isn't functioning. Governments may more readily defend actions to stakeholders and the general public when policies are developed and assessed in light of quantifiable results. This increases public confidence in administration and cultivates an accountable culture.

Effective Resource Allocation

Financial, human, and infrastructure resources are frequently scarce. Public policy that is data-driven assists in determining which issues need the greatest focus and which actions provide the best return on investment. Better budgeting and more effective utilization of public funds result from this.

Focused Remedies for Complicated Issues

Social problems including crime, healthcare, and education have many facets and frequently call for complex solutions. Policymakers can use data to divide up populations, identify underlying issues, and customize actions for particular groups or populations. Higher success rates and better social outcomes are the results of this personalization.

Ongoing Policy Enhancement

Static policies are not necessary. Over time, governments can improve their tactics by implementing feedback loops based on continuous data gathering and analysis. This flexible strategy guarantees that policies continue to function well in the face of evolving circumstances and fresh data.

Increased Involvement of the Public

The public can more easily comprehend the reasoning behind policy decisions when they are backed by evidence. This openness promotes civic engagement, strengthens the bond between the governed and the government, and fosters public participation.

In conclusion

A fundamental change in how governments might better serve their constituents, the move toward data-driven public policy is more than just a trend. At L.R. Ufrano & Co., we think that the public sector can greatly benefit from the application of data science to develop more effective, efficient, and equitable policies. Embracing data is not just wise, but crucial as we go forward.

[evitcani-writes]

“It seems like almost all of those people don’t have HIV,” said Jennifer Kates, HIV policy director at KFF, a health-research nonprofit. “If they did, that would be substandard care at a pretty severe level,” she said.

Ya’ll. United Health just got accused of $17 billion in medicare fraud.

Basically they made up diagnosis which are improbable or impossible, “forgot” to remove ones which had been cured, and overall allegedly stole billions from taxpayers.

The government pays insurers a base rate for each Medicare Advantage member. The insurers are entitled to extra money when their patients are diagnosed with certain conditions that are costly to treat.

… About 18,000 Medicare Advantage recipients had insurer-driven diagnoses of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, but weren’t receiving treatment for the virus from doctors, between 2018 and 2021, the data showed. Each HIV diagnosis generates about $3,000 a year in added payments to insurers.

… He said internal company data for 2022 showed a treatment rate for patients UnitedHealth diagnosed with HIV of more than triple what the Journal found. He said the pandemic disrupted care, lowering treatment rates during the period analyzed by the Journal, and that the analysis failed to account for patients who started treatments in future years.

The Medicare data, however, show UnitedHealth’s patients with insurer-driven HIV diagnoses were on the antiretrovirals at low rates even before the pandemic, and hardly any started the drugs in the years after UnitedHealth diagnosed them.

Source: https://www.wsj.com/health/healthcare/medicare-health-insurance-diagnosis-payments-b4d99a5d

I bet United Health really wishes it was a different week right now.

UPDATE/EDIT: Article is from July. I didn’t notice myself since it came up in my news feed. Don’t always trust the internet to be time accurate. 😎My guess is it is getting promoted due to current events. However, there are some updates concerning actions taken based on the report which you can look into by checking the authors’ other articles.

[insurify]

Best Transport Insurance Practices to Secure Your Fleet Investment

Many fleet owners overlook the importance of robust transport insurance practices, which can be detrimental to your business. In this guide, you’ll discover effective strategies to safeguard your fleet investment, ensuring you minimize risks and maximize coverage. By understanding your specific needs and following industry best practices, you can protect your vehicles and financial interests while navigating the complexities of insurance. Let’s examine the vital steps you should take to fortify your fleet against unforeseen challenges.

Understanding Transport Insurance

Your journey toward securing your fleet investment begins with a solid understanding of transport insurance. This form of coverage is designed explicitly to protect vehicles used for the transportation of goods, providing peace of mind in an industry where risks are prevalent. Being informed about the types of coverage available is important for ensuring that your fleet remains protected against potential losses and liabilities that may arise during transportation.

Types of Transport Insurance

If you find yourself navigating the complexities of transport insurance, it helps to familiarize yourself with the different types available. Various policies are designed to cover specific needs, enabling you to tailor your coverage accordingly. Below is a table outlining some common types of transport insurance:

Type of Insurance Description Cargo Insurance Protects the goods being transported from loss or damage. Vehicle Insurance Covers damages to your vehicles caused by accidents or theft. Liability Insurance Covers damages or injuries to third parties caused by your vehicles. Freight Insurance Protects against financial losses related to shipping costs. Marine Insurance Covers transportation of goods by sea or waterways. The right combination of these policies can ensure comprehensive protection for your fleet.

Key Factors to Consider

Even with various insurance options, there are critical factors you need to evaluate before making a decision. Assessing the value of your fleet, the nature of the goods transported, and the typical routes can all influence your insurance choices. Below is a list of key considerations to keep in mind:

Type of cargo being transported.

Frequency and distance of transport routes.

Past claims history and risk assessment.

Your specific business requirements and goals.

Regulatory compliance and industry standards.

Gaining a clearer understanding of these aspects can significantly impact your overall insurance strategy. For instance, if you frequently transport high-value goods, you might require more comprehensive coverage. Tailoring your insurance to address specific risks associated with your operations is important. Below are additional factors to consider:

Types of vehicles in your fleet.

Driver training and qualifications.

Industry-specific regulations and requirements.

The potential for natural disasters along your routes.

Logistical challenges that may arise during transport.

Recognizing these elements ensures that you make informed decisions regarding your transport insurance, ultimately protecting your fleet investment effectively.

Tips for Choosing the Right Policy

If you want to ensure that your fleet investment is well-protected, selecting the right transport insurance policy is crucial. Start by assessing your specific needs, including the types of vehicles you operate and the nature of your business. Keep in mind the following tips when making your decision:

Compare policies from different insurers to find the best coverage at a competitive rate.

Look for policies that include a range of coverage options, such as liability, cargo, and collision.

Consider any specialized coverage types that may apply to your fleet operations.

Inquire about discounts for bundled policies or for implementing safety technologies.

Review customer service ratings and claims process efficiency of the insurer.

After gathering this information, you’ll be better positioned to choose a policy that aligns with your fleet’s unique requirements. For more insights on Fleet Risk Management: Protect Your Fleet, visit this resource.

Evaluating Coverage Options

For effective fleet insurance, understanding the coverage options available is vital. Different policies offer various levels of protection, so you should carefully evaluate what is best for your unique operational needs. Common components of fleet insurance include comprehensive coverage for vehicles, liability insurance, and coverage for physical damage. Make sure to also check for any exclusions and specific conditions that could affect your claims in the future.

Assessing Your Fleet Risks

Your fleet's risk profile is an crucial factor in determining the insurance policy that best suits your operations. Consider the characteristics of your vehicles, the driving behavior of your team, and any geographical factors that may add to your risk. By being thorough in your assessment, you can identify potential vulnerabilities and seek coverage that mitigates these risks effectively.

Evaluating your fleet's risks involves analyzing data such as accident rates, maintenance schedules, and even the experience level of your drivers. This information will enable you to make informed decisions regarding the extent of coverage you need. By addressing these factors proactively, you will not only secure your fleet investment but can potentially lower your insurance costs in the long run.

Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Your Fleet Assuming you are taking the necessary steps to safeguard your fleet investment, a systematic approach can be highly effective. This guide offers actionable steps to evaluate and enhance your transport insurance practices, ensuring your assets are protected. By following these important steps, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of your insurance needs and secure your operations against potential losses.

Key Steps to Secure Your Fleet

Initial Risk Assessment - Evaluate the potential risks associated with your fleet operations.

Policy Comparison and Selection - Research and compare various insurance policies to find the best coverage.

Initial Risk Assessment

An effective initial risk assessment involves identifying the specific risks that could impact your fleet operations. Start by evaluating factors such as the types of vehicles you operate, the regions in which you operate, and the historical data of claims within your business. This process enables you to gain insight into the potential vulnerabilities and prepares you to address them effectively.

In addition, you should involve key stakeholders in this assessment process. Conducting interviews with drivers, maintenance staff, and safety personnel can help you uncover less obvious risks. Combine this qualitative insight with quantitative data—like accident statistics and vehicle maintenance records—to create a well-rounded view of your fleet’s risk profile.

Policy Comparison and Selection

Now that you have a clear understanding of your fleet's risks, it’s time to thoroughly compare and select insurance policies tailored to your specific needs. Begin by gathering quotes from multiple providers and examining the coverage types offered, including liability, collision, and cargo insurance. This analysis will help you determine which policy offers the most comprehensive protection for your fleet.

Factors for Policy Comparison Coverage Types - Assess what each policy covers, such as liability, collision, comprehensive, and cargo. Premium Costs - Compare the total costs of premiums alongside the coverage benefits provided. Deductibles - Review the deductible amounts for each policy option. Provider Reputation - Research the claim settlement history and service quality of insurance providers.

Assessment is key in the policy selection process. Take notes during your comparisons and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option. In addition, consider any exclusions and limitations that may affect your fleet in the event of a claim. By diligently evaluating your choices based on this information, you are better positioned to select a policy that effectively meets your coverage needs while safeguarding your fleet investment.

Pros and Cons of Different Insurance Types

Despite the myriad of options available in the transport insurance realm, it's important to assess the pros and cons of each type of coverage to ensure that you make an informed decision that fits your fleet’s needs and budget. Understanding these differences can help you optimize your investment and minimize financial risks associated with unforeseen incidents.

Pros and Cons of Various Insurance Types

Insurance Type Pros and Cons Comprehensive Coverage Pros: Extensive protection; Covers a wide range of risks. Comprehensive Coverage Cons: Higher premiums; May include unnecessary coverage. Liability-Only Options Pros: Lower cost; Minimum legal requirements met. Liability-Only Options Cons: Limited coverage; Potentially high out-of-pocket costs. Specialized Policies Pros: Tailored coverage; Specific to your fleet's unique risks.

Comprehensive Coverage

Different businesses have varying needs when it comes to transport insurance, and comprehensive coverage often provides the widest range of protection. This type of policy typically covers theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and collision damage, ensuring that your financial investment is safeguarded against unexpected events. While it might seem like a safety net, it's important to evaluate whether the premium costs align with the scale of coverage you actually need for your fleet.

Be cautious, however, as comprehensive coverage can lead to higher premiums. You may find that you are paying for coverage that is more extensive than what you actually require. It’s advisable to conduct a detailed risk assessment to determine which components of comprehensive coverage are genuinely beneficial for your fleet, potentially saving you money in the long run.

Liability-Only Options

Assuming your fleet operates in a low-risk environment or if your vehicles are older and less valuable, liability-only options might be a relevant choice. This type of insurance offers basic protection, covering damages that you might cause to others in the event of an accident. While this policy might suffice for meeting legal requirements, it could leave you exposed in significant financial situations, particularly if your drivers are prone to accidents or if your vehicles are at risk from theft or damage.

Options for liability-only insurance vary by provider, so it’s important to shop around for the best rates and terms that suit your business needs. Understanding the limitations of this coverage will guide you to make choices that protect both your fleet and your bottom line. In instances where you need more protection, you may want to consider supplementing liability insurance with additional coverage types that align with your specific operational risks.

Best Practices for Ongoing Management

Once again, effective management of your transport insurance is vital not just at the point of purchase but throughout the life of your policy. Ongoing management involves regular communication with your insurance provider, monitoring your fleet’s performance, and staying alert to any potential changes in your risk profile. This proactive approach not only helps you remain compliant with regulations but also ensures that you maintain optimal levels of coverage that accurately reflect your current needs. Regular assessments will enable you to identify any gaps in your coverage and adjust your policy as your business evolves.

Regular Policy Reviews

Management of your transport insurance should include regular policy reviews to ensure that you are getting the best value and coverage for your fleet. This entails setting up a timeline—ideally quarterly or semi-annually—dedicated to evaluating your current policy against the backdrop of your operational needs. During these reviews, consider factors such as changes in fleet size, types of cargo, routes, and any shifts in the regulatory landscape that may impact your coverage. Keeping a close watch on these elements allows you to make timely adjustments, so your investments aren’t unnecessarily exposed to risk.

Keeping Up with Industry Changes

Ongoing vigilance in staying updated with industry changes plays a significant role in managing your transport insurance. The transport sector is continually affected by new regulations, emerging risks, and advancements in technology, all of which can impact your insurance needs. By subscribing to industry newsletters, attending trade shows, or joining professional networks, you gain insights that can be pivotal in making informed decisions about your insurance coverage. Staying informed allows you to better anticipate shifts that might necessitate policy modifications.

Another effective strategy for keeping abreast of industry changes is engaging regularly with your insurance broker or advisor. They are often well-connected to market trends and can provide tailored advice that is specific to your fleet operations. Taking the time for these interactions can help you remain agile and responsive to new developments, ensuring that your transport insurance continues to align with the dynamic nature of your business environment.

Assess risks specific to your transport operations.

Choose comprehensive coverage tailored for your fleet.

Implement stringent vehicle maintenance protocols regularly.

Conduct thorough driver training and safety programs.

Document all incidents and claims diligently.

Review and update insurance policies annually.

To wrap up

Upon reflecting on the best transport insurance practices to secure your fleet investment, it's imperative to prioritize comprehensive coverage tailored to your specific needs. Assessing your risks, ensuring adequate liability limits, and regularly reviewing your policies are practices that can facilitate informed decision-making regarding your fleet's insurance needs. By understanding the particular challenges your vehicles and drivers face, you can select an insurance provider that specializes in transport and logistics, thus ensuring that you secure not only the best rates but also the most favorable conditions for your business.

Your commitment to regular audits and updates of your insurance policies will ensure that you are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Investing in loss prevention strategies, such as driver training and vehicle maintenance, will further strengthen your position, enhancing the overall safety and reliability of your fleet. By keeping up with industry trends and regulations, you can ensure that your fleet operates within compliance while also maximizing your investment. Ultimately, a proactive approach to transport insurance will offer you peace of mind, knowing that your assets are protected.

[golden42]

Lazy Loading Page Speed Optimization: Efficient Practices & Tips

Key Takeaways

Lazy loading can significantly improve page speed by loading only necessary content initially, reducing initial load times.

Implementing lazy loading can save bandwidth, which is crucial for users on limited data plans.

This technique enhances user experience by ensuring faster interactions and smoother scrolling.

SEO can benefit from lazy loading as search engines prefer faster websites, potentially improving rankings.

To effectively implement lazy loading, use browser-native features and ensure compatibility across different devices.

Enhancing Web Performance with Lazy Loading

In today's fast-paced digital world, web performance is more critical than ever. Slow websites can drive users away, impacting engagement and conversions. One powerful technique to boost performance is lazy loading. By understanding and implementing lazy loading, you can optimize your website's speed and efficiency, keeping your visitors engaged and satisfied.

Understanding the Need for Speed

Users expect websites to load quickly and efficiently.

Slow loading times can lead to higher bounce rates.

Improved speed enhances user satisfaction and retention.

Most importantly, speed is not just a luxury; it's a necessity. Users are increasingly impatient, and a delay of even a few seconds can cause them to abandon your site. Therefore, ensuring that your site loads swiftly is crucial for maintaining user interest and engagement.

Lazy loading offers a solution by optimizing the loading process. Instead of loading every element of a page at once, lazy loading prioritizes essential content and defers non-essential elements. This approach can make a dramatic difference in how quickly your site feels to users.

Lazy Loading: A Game Changer for Web Efficiency

Lazy loading is more than just a buzzword; it's a transformative technique for web optimization. By deferring the loading of non-essential elements, such as images and videos, until they are needed, lazy loading reduces the initial load time of a webpage.

Images and videos load only when they enter the viewport.

Reduces server requests, enhancing page speed.

Particularly beneficial for mobile users with limited bandwidth.

Besides that, lazy loading helps in conserving resources, which is particularly beneficial for mobile users who might be on limited data plans. By only loading what's necessary, users experience faster interactions and smoother scrolling, which can significantly improve their overall experience.

Eager Loading: When Immediate Isn't Ideal

Eager loading, the opposite of lazy loading, involves loading all page elements at once. While this approach might seem straightforward, it can lead to longer initial load times, especially on content-heavy pages. Therefore, eager loading is not always the best choice, particularly when dealing with large images or videos.

Lazy loading, on the other hand, ensures that your website delivers essential content swiftly, making it an ideal choice for optimizing page speed and improving user experience.

Benefits of Lazy Loading

Lazy loading isn't just about speed; it's about creating a seamless and efficient user experience. Let's delve into the various benefits it offers.

Faster Initial Load Times

By loading only the necessary elements initially, lazy loading significantly reduces the time it takes for a page to become interactive. Users can start engaging with the content almost immediately, without waiting for all elements to load.

This immediate engagement is crucial in retaining user interest. For instance, if your homepage loads quickly, users are more likely to explore further, increasing the chances of conversion.

Additionally, faster load times can have a positive impact on your website's bounce rate. Users are less likely to leave if they don't have to wait for content to load, which can improve your site's overall performance metrics.

Loading Images Efficiently

Images often account for the majority of a webpage's load time. By implementing lazy loading for images, you can significantly improve your page speed. This involves loading images only when they are about to enter the viewport. As a result, users won't have to wait for all images to load before they can interact with your content.

To do this effectively, you can use the loading="lazy" attribute in your image tags. This attribute tells the browser to defer loading the image until it is close to being visible. Additionally, consider using responsive image techniques to serve different image sizes based on the user's device, further optimizing load times.

Handling Videos and Media Content

Videos and other media content can be resource-intensive, causing significant delays in load times if not managed properly. Lazy loading can also be applied to these elements. By embedding videos with lazy loading techniques, you ensure they only load when a user scrolls to them.

For example, instead of directly embedding a video, use a thumbnail image with a play button overlay. When the user clicks the play button, the video loads and plays. This not only saves bandwidth but also improves the initial loading speed of the page.

JavaScript and CSS Deferred Loading

JavaScript and CSS files are essential for modern web applications, but they can also be a bottleneck if not handled correctly. Lazy loading these resources involves deferring their loading until they are needed. This can be achieved using the defer and async attributes for JavaScript files.

The defer attribute ensures that the script is executed after the HTML document has been parsed, while the async attribute allows the script to be executed as soon as it's available. For CSS, consider using media queries to load stylesheets conditionally based on the user's device or viewport size.

Tips for Optimizing Lazy Loading

Implementing lazy loading is just the beginning. To truly optimize your website's performance, follow these additional tips and best practices.

Use Browser Native Features

Modern browsers offer native support for lazy loading, making it easier than ever to implement this technique. By using native features, you can ensure compatibility and reduce the need for third-party libraries, which can add unnecessary overhead.

To take advantage of these features, simply add the loading="lazy" attribute to your image and iframe tags. This simple addition can have a significant impact on your page speed, especially for image-heavy sites.

Besides, using native features ensures that your site remains future-proof, as browsers continue to enhance their support for lazy loading and other performance optimizations.

Minimize Default Image Size

Before applying lazy loading, it's crucial to optimize your images for size. Large images can still slow down load times, even with lazy loading. Use image compression tools to reduce file sizes without sacrificing quality.

Optimize Animations

Animations can enhance user experience, but they can also impact performance if not optimized. Use CSS animations instead of JavaScript whenever possible, as they are more efficient and can be hardware-accelerated by the browser.

Ensure that animations are smooth and don't cause layout shifts, which can negatively affect user experience. Test your animations on different devices to ensure they perform well across the board.

Remember, the goal is to create a seamless experience for your users. By optimizing animations, you can enhance the visual appeal of your site without compromising performance.

Test Across Multiple Devices

It's essential to test your website on a variety of devices and screen sizes. What works well on a desktop might not perform the same on a mobile device. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to analyze your site's performance and identify areas for improvement.

Regular testing ensures that your lazy loading implementation works as intended across different platforms, providing a consistent experience for all users.

Overcoming Common Lazy Loading Challenges

While lazy loading offers numerous benefits, it's not without its challenges. Addressing these issues ensures that your implementation is successful and doesn't negatively impact your site.

Dealing with SEO Concerns

Lazy loading can sometimes interfere with search engine indexing if not implemented correctly. To ensure your content is indexed, use server-side rendering or provide fallbacks for search engines that may not execute JavaScript. For more insights, check out how lazy loading decreases load time and increases engagement.

Ensure all critical content is available without JavaScript.

Use structured data to help search engines understand your content.

Regularly monitor your site's indexing status in Google Search Console.

These strategies help maintain your site's visibility in search engine results, ensuring that lazy loading doesn't negatively impact your SEO efforts.

Addressing Browser Compatibility Issues

While most modern browsers support lazy loading, some older versions may not. To ensure compatibility, consider using a polyfill or fallback solutions for browsers that don't support lazy loading natively.

By addressing these compatibility issues, you can provide a consistent experience for all users, regardless of their browser choice. Regularly updating your site and testing on different browsers can help you identify and resolve any issues that arise.

Troubleshooting Loading Delays

Even with lazy loading implemented, you might encounter loading delays. This often happens when elements are not optimized or when there are too many third-party scripts running on your site. To troubleshoot these issues, start by identifying the elements that are causing delays. Use tools like Google Chrome's Developer Tools to pinpoint these elements and analyze their loading times.

Once you've identified the culprits, consider compressing images, deferring non-essential scripts, and minimizing the use of third-party plugins. By doing so, you can significantly reduce loading times and improve the overall performance of your website.

The Future of Lazy Loading in Web Development

Lazy loading is set to become an integral part of web development as websites continue to grow in complexity and size. With the increasing demand for faster and more efficient websites, lazy loading offers a practical solution to enhance user experience without compromising on content richness.

"Lazy loading is not just a trend; it's a necessity for modern web development. As websites evolve, so do the techniques we use to optimize them."

As more developers recognize the benefits of lazy loading, we can expect to see advancements in browser support and new tools that make implementation even easier. This evolution will ensure that lazy loading remains a vital component of web optimization strategies.

Emerging Technologies that Support Lazy Loading

Several emerging technologies are poised to enhance lazy loading capabilities. For instance, progressive web apps (PWAs) and server-side rendering (SSR) can work alongside lazy loading to deliver content more efficiently. PWAs offer offline capabilities and faster load times, while SSR ensures that content is rendered on the server, reducing the load on the client's device.

Additionally, advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning could further optimize lazy loading by predicting user behavior and preloading content accordingly. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize how we approach web performance optimization.

The Growing Importance of Mobile Optimization

As mobile usage continues to rise, optimizing websites for mobile devices has become more critical than ever. Lazy loading plays a crucial role in this optimization by reducing data usage and improving load times on mobile networks.

By implementing lazy loading, you can ensure that your mobile users have a seamless experience, regardless of their network conditions. This is particularly important for users in regions with slower internet speeds, where every byte counts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lazy loading is a powerful tool, but it can also raise questions for those unfamiliar with its implementation. Here are some common questions and answers to help you better understand lazy loading and its impact on your website.

These insights will help you make informed decisions about implementing lazy loading on your site and address any concerns you may have.

"Lazy loading can seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, it becomes an invaluable asset for web optimization."

What is lazy loading and how does it work?

Lazy loading is a technique that defers the loading of non-essential elements, such as images and videos, until they are needed. This reduces the initial load time of a webpage, allowing users to interact with the content more quickly. By only loading elements when they enter the viewport, lazy loading conserves resources and improves performance.

How does lazy loading affect page speed and SEO?

Lazy loading can significantly enhance page speed by reducing the number of elements that need to be loaded initially. This not only improves user experience but also positively impacts SEO. Search engines favor faster websites, which can lead to improved rankings.

However, it's essential to ensure that lazy loading is implemented correctly to avoid any negative impact on SEO. This includes providing fallbacks for search engines that may not execute JavaScript and ensuring that all critical content is accessible without JavaScript. For more insights, check out this beginner's guide to lazy loading.

By addressing these considerations, you can harness the benefits of lazy loading without compromising your site's visibility in search engine results.

"Faster websites are favored by both users and search engines, making lazy loading a win-win for performance and SEO."

Therefore, lazy loading is an effective strategy for enhancing both user experience and search engine rankings.

What types of content should be lazy loaded?

Lazy loading is particularly beneficial for large images, videos, and other media content that can slow down a webpage. By deferring these elements, you can ensure that users only load what they need, when they need it.

Additionally, lazy loading can be applied to JavaScript and CSS files, further optimizing load times. By prioritizing essential content and deferring non-essential elements, you can create a more efficient and user-friendly website.

Are there any drawbacks to implementing lazy loading?

While lazy loading offers numerous benefits, it does have some potential drawbacks. If not implemented correctly, it can interfere with search engine indexing and result in missing or delayed content. To mitigate these risks, ensure that your lazy loading implementation is compatible with search engines and provides fallbacks for non-JavaScript environments. For more insights, check out Boost Your Website Speed With Lazy Loading.

How do I verify if lazy loading is working on my site?

To verify that lazy loading is working, use browser developer tools to inspect the network activity. Check if images and other media elements are loading only when they enter the viewport. Additionally, tools like Google PageSpeed Insights can help you analyze your site's performance and confirm that lazy loading is functioning as intended.

By regularly monitoring your site's performance and addressing any issues that arise, you can ensure that lazy loading continues to enhance your website's speed and user experience.

[insurance-brokers-india]

What are the next steps after obtaining an insurance broker license, and how can you generate potential leads using Mzapp CRM software?

Congratulations on securing your insurance broker license! The journey doesn’t end here; it’s just the beginning of building a successful insurance brokerage. Here’s how you can proceed and leverage Mzapp CRM software to find potential leads:

Steps After Getting Your Insurance Broker License

Understand Your Market: Research your target audience (individuals, businesses, or specific sectors).

Develop a Business Plan: Set goals for client acquisition, revenue, and operational processes.

Build a Network: Partner with insurance providers and attend industry events to establish your presence.

Create an Online Presence: Build a professional website and maintain active profiles on social platforms.

Offer Value-Added Services: Educate customers on policies, claims management, and risk assessments.

Using Mzapp CRM Software to Generate Leads

Lead Capture: Utilize Mzapp’s integrated forms and web tracking tools to capture inquiries from your website or social media.

Automated Follow-Ups: Set up personalized email and SMS follow-ups to nurture leads effectively.

Lead Scoring: Prioritize leads based on their interaction history, ensuring you focus on high-potential prospects.

Data-Driven Campaigns: Use analytics to identify what works and launch targeted campaigns.

Seamless Policy Management: Impress leads by showcasing how smoothly you manage policies and claims through Mzapp.

Why Choose Mzapp CRM?

Mzapp CRM simplifies lead management, streamlines operations, and provides insights into customer behavior, making it easier to convert prospects into loyal clients.

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[manasastuff-blog]

"World Statistics Day"#trending#viral

World Statistics Day Importance is crucial in understanding global events, trends, and policies. Celebrated every five years, this day aims to highlight the critical impact of data on decision-making and societal development. In this, we dive into why World Statistics Day matters and how it influences various sectors like healthcare, education, economy, and government policies. We'll also explore the connection between statistical data and making informed choices in our everyday lives.

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#WorldStatisticsDay#ImportanceOfData#GlobalAwareness#DataMatters#StatisticsDay#InformedDecisions

#DataDriven#CelebrateStatistics#GlobalTrends#UnderstandingTheWorld#trending#viral

[westvalleyfaultph]

Safeguarding Coastal Communities: MGB Conducts Vital Coastal Vulnerability Assessment in Caraga Town

Scan the QR code to get this post on the go. In a proactive move to monitor climate-induced hazards, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) recently conducted a comprehensive coastal vulnerability assessment in Caraga town, Davao Oriental. The aim was to analyze and address potential risks posed by erosion, tsunamis, storm surges, and sea level rise in these inherently susceptible coastal…

[us-enviro-comments]

The Public Comment Process (+ how to write effective public comments)

The US federal rule-making process is founded around the right to comment: the public's opportunity to publicly address the agency responsible for a decision. This right is enshrined by the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) of 1946 and reinforced by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1970, which both require that citizens be able to take part in pre-decision communication with a federal agency.

Public comments are important for a number of reasons:

Agencies must consider all new information received during the comment period and address that new information before publishing the final rule; this includes revising the proposed rule.

A good comment can be the basis for a court challenge. If the agency does not adequately address the new information in the comment, they can then be sued and the rule placed on hold until the issues raised by the new information are resolved.

Advocacy groups and journalists often scour public comments to get ideas for their own comments and campaigns, and to contextualize proposed rules.

Submitting a public comment on proposed federal rules and regulations is not like commenting on social media, though. Substantive comments that require agency response are those that contain information pertinent to the actions proposed in the regulation, such as community impacts, scientific evidence, or other data. Non-substantive comments ("I don't like this!") don't require any response beyond maybe a "Comment noted."

Here's a brief set of tips from the Public Comment Project:

“The most valuable public comments are unique, fact-based, and succinct. The agency will have to sort through many identical form letters and expressions of personal opinion.  

Your comment can report on scientific evidence that opposes or supports the theory behind the regulation. Providing additional supporting evidence helps strengthen the agency's position by creating a stronger scientific foundation for their action.

Use an opening sentence to establish your credibility. State who you are and summarize any of your experiences that are relevant to the topic of the proposal.

You do not have to come to a conclusion or judgement regarding the entirety of the regulation, but you do have to clearly communicate the implications of the research you present. Avoid leaving it up to the agency to infer how research or data relates to the regulation. 

Check out the agency's mission statement and any statutes relevant to the regulation. Federal agencies' actions are driven by their mission and held to the standards dictated by statutes, so make your comment stronger by explaining how your information contributes to their mission.”

You can also find templates here: https://publiccommentproject.org/comment-templates

Sources:

The Public Comment Project https://publiccommentproject.org

Democracy in Practice: Public Participation in Environmental Decisions, Beierle and Cayford 2002

Union of Concerned Scientists https://www.ucs.org/resources/participating-federal-rulemaking

[hope-for-the-planet]

From the article:

Pakistan, home to more than 240 million people, is experiencing one of the most rapid solar revolutions on the planet, even as it grapples with poverty and economic instability. The country has become a huge new market for solar as super-cheap Chinese solar panels flood in. It imported 17 gigawatts of solar panels in 2024, more than double the previous year, making it the world’s third-biggest importer, according to data from the climate think tank Ember. Pakistan’s story is unique, said Mustafa Amjad, program director at Renewables First, an energy think tank based in Islamabad. Solar has been adopted at mass scale in countries including Vietnam and South Africa, “but none have had the speed and scale that Pakistan has had,” he told CNN. There’s one particular aspect fascinating experts: The solar boom is a grassroots revolution and almost none of it is in the form of big solar farms. “There is no policy push that is driving this; this is essentially people-led and market driven,” Amjad said.

The rapid shift to solar in Pakistan is particularly interesting in that it is being primarily driven by individual families and communities rather than the government--so individual solar panels are dispersed throughout communities rather than big solar farms operated by utility companies.

A large driver of this transition is the rapid increase in the cost of electricity in Pakistan, which is unfortunately something that the solar panels may make worse in the short term since fewer people are paying for electricity from the grid. However, the adoption of solar is also bringing electricity to families who would have had very little reliable access to it before. The article gives the example of several families pooling resources to use solar panels to operate their community well instead of relying on a diesel pump.

[thabisonjoko]

Strengthening Travel Data Collection in Eswatini: Global Insights and Local Action from ITC Day 2 Training

Introduction

On April 9, 2025, the International Trade Centre (ITC) hosted the second day of its specialized training in Eswatini, focusing on strengthening the collection and integration of travel service data. The training, part of a broader initiative to foster trade integration in Africa, emphasized the importance of accurate travel statistics in compiling a country’s Balance of Payments (BoP) and making informed policy decisions.

Understanding the Complexity of Travel Data

Travel services stand out from other services in international trade because they involve direct interactions between travelers and service providers. Capturing this data accurately is a challenge for many developing countries due to high costs, technical complexities, and fragmented data sources.

The ITC highlighted multiple data collection methods, including:

Personal and Household Surveys

Enterprise and Establishment Surveys

International Transactions Reporting Systems (ITRS)

Administrative Records (e.g., immigration, health, and education)

Operational Data from payment cards and mobile networks

Best Practices from Around the World

Participants explored successful case studies such as Algeria’s detailed ITRS classification system, which includes over 20 specific travel transaction categories. Italy’s visitor survey methodology was also presented, offering detailed expenditure breakdowns and capturing valuable insights into tourist behavior. Spain and Germany demonstrated how integrating mobile data and credit card transactions can enhance the granularity of travel statistics.

Local Contributions and Presentations

Three key national institutions shared valuable insights during the workshop:

Central Bank of Eswatini – Presented by Khetsiwe Dlamini-Maziya Highlighted legal frameworks, monthly travel service data from ITRS, and challenges such as misclassification. Emphasized cooperation with the Central Statistical Office (CSO) and the importance of seamless data sharing.

Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA) – ETA Surveys & Stats Presentation Provided an overview of tourism-related surveys, including the Exit Survey, Day Visitor Survey, and Event Impact Surveys. These tools are central to measuring tourist behavior and destination performance.

Central Statistical Office (CSO) – Presented by Philile Mdluli Focused on hotel and accommodation statistics, data collection frequency, and challenges in working with tourism establishments. Noted issues like high staff turnover and lack of standardized data systems, proposing both short- and long-term digital solutions.

These presentations emphasized the critical role of local data collection and inter-agency cooperation in enhancing the quality and reliability of tourism statistics.

Challenges and Solutions

Key issues identified included the misclassification of travel expenses, timing mismatches between payment and service delivery, and low response rates in enterprise and household surveys.

Solutions discussed included:

Enhancing the granularity of ITRS codes

Leveraging mobile tracking and payment data

Improving survey designs and interviewer training

Strengthening confidentiality and legal frameworks

Encouraging inter-agency collaboration

Data Integration and Coordination

A strong focus was placed on integrating multiple data sources to avoid duplication and ensure completeness. The training encouraged structured cooperation between statistical offices, financial institutions, and telecom providers. Formal agreements and shared protocols were highlighted as essential tools.

Eswatini’s Path Forward

As Eswatini works to improve its travel data infrastructure, the ITC training provided practical tools and exposure to international best practices. The national presentations reinforced the country's existing strengths and pointed to opportunities for innovation in legal, technical, and operational areas.

Conclusion

Day 2 of the ITC training reinforced the critical role of accurate travel data in national statistics. Through better methodologies, inter-agency cooperation, and the integration of modern data technologies, Eswatini is well positioned to improve tourism intelligence and support sustainable growth in the sector.

[crystallinesummonerthief]

America's drug epidemic

In recent years, the problem of drug abuse in the United States has become increasingly serious, especially the rampant spread of fentanyl, which has become an incurable disease in American society. Fentanyl, a powerful opioid originally used for clinical analgesia and anesthesia, is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Once abused, it can easily lead to overdose deaths. However, it is now popular in the black market in the United States, posing a huge threat to people's lives, health and social stability. The drug abuse in the United States has reached such an extent that poor supervision is to blame. Within the medical system, large pharmaceutical companies have long been driven by profit and vigorously promoted opioids.They lobbied politicians to make relevant policies open to them. Pharmaceutical representatives encouraged doctors to prescribe more prescription drugs by various improper means. Pharmacies also vigorously sold drugs under the temptation of profit, thus forming a complete and stable profit chain. Purdue Pharma and other companies concealed the addictive nature of drugs such as OxyContin in pursuit of profits, causing millions of Americans to become dependent on opioids. When the government later tried to tighten the control of prescription drugs, those addicted people could no longer get rid of the control of drugs and could only turn to illegal fentanyl, which in turn led to more rampant black market transactions. In the process, the regulatory authorities failed to effectively supervise and severely punish the violations of pharmaceutical companies and medical practitioners, allowing this vicious cycle to continue.

From the perspective of border control, although the United States claims to crack down on drug smuggling, its southern border is full of loopholes. Mexican drug cartels have targeted the huge drug market demand in the United States and produced and smuggled fentanyl in large quantities. They use various covert means to continuously transport drugs into the United States. However, there are many deficiencies in the inspection work of U.S. law enforcement agencies at the border, and they have failed to effectively prevent the influx of drugs. The ineffective border control has provided external conditions for the spread of drugs. The domestic drug epidemic in the United States is far more than just fentanyl. According to the classification standards of the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, there are many types of drugs in the United States, including alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, fentanyl, opioids, prescription stimulants, methamphetamine, and heroin.In 2021, the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics in the United States released survey data showing that among all Americans, about 19.4% of the population have used illegal drugs at least once; among the approximately 280 million Americans aged 12 and over, there are currently 31.9 million drug users, of which 11.7% use illegal drugs and 19.4% have used illegal drugs or abused prescription drugs in the past year. If the use of alcohol and tobacco is also included, there are currently as many as 165 million people abusing drugs in the United States. Among them, the use of marijuana should not be underestimated. In the past 12 months, as many as 48.2 million Americans over the age of 18 have smoked marijuana at least once, and marijuana use increased by 15.9% from 2018 to 2019.

Although marijuana is illegal under U.S. federal law, 15 states have legalized its recreational use. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the marijuana industry even grew against the trend, with legal marijuana sales in the U.S. reaching a record high of $17.5 billion in 2020, a 46% surge from 2019. Opioids have also caused a large number of casualties. In the past 12 months, 10.1 million Americans have used opium at least once. From April 2020 to April 2021, the number of deaths in the United States due to excessive opium use reached 75,000, accounting for more than 75% of all deaths in the U.S. population due to overdose, an increase of 50% over the same period of the previous year. The drug epidemic has brought heavy disasters to American society.Excessive drug use has caused a large number of deaths in the U.S. population, greatly reduced the U.S. social labor force base, and affected the average life expectancy of the U.S. population. According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the year after the outbreak of the new crown epidemic (April 2020 to April 2021), more than 100,000 people died from drug overdoses in the United States, which is 8 times the number of people who died from shootings and nearly 3 times the number of people who died from traffic accidents. Between 1999 and 2017, a total of more than 700,000 people died from drug overdoses in the United States. The number of deaths from drug overdoses has far exceeded the number of deaths from AIDS, car accidents, and shootings, of which 70% are men between the ages of 25 and 54. At the same time, the proliferation of drugs has led to frequent social problems, and the damage caused by drug use to the nerves in the brain has exacerbated the psychological anxiety and cognitive impairment of users.

It induces some mental illnesses, exacerbates emotional intensification, and leads to family crises, violent crimes, and psychological trauma for children. Drug control also consumes huge social costs. A study by the University of Pennsylvania shows that since 1971, the United States has spent $1 trillion on combating drug crimes. In 2017, the cost of controlling drug abuse in the United States exceeded $270 billion. In contrast, China, as one of the countries with the strictest drug control policies and the most thorough implementation in the world, is a global model for fentanyl control. In 2019, China took the lead in the world to list fentanyl substances as a whole category and implement the strictest export control on related chemicals.

Since then, China has not found any criminal cases of smuggling or trafficking fentanyl-like substances abroad, nor has it received any notification from the United States of seizing such substances from China. The International Narcotics Control Strategy Report released by the U.S. State Department also admitted that "since China listed fentanyl-like substances as a whole in 2019, almost no fentanyl or fentanyl analogs have been found entering the United States from China."

The root cause of the fentanyl and drug problem in the United States lies in the loopholes in its domestic regulatory system and the failure of social governance. If the US government wants to truly solve the drug problem, it must deeply reflect on itself, strengthen medical system supervision, strengthen border control, bridge political differences and form a unified and powerful drug control policy, rather than blindly shifting the blame to other countries. Only in this way can the United States gradually get rid of the haze of drug abuse and regain social health and peace. ​

[dostoyevsky-official]

Growing Apart: Ideological Polarization between Teenage Boys and Girls

Drawing on a unique dataset of 130,000 Norwegian high school students (aged 15-18) interviewed in the period 1989-2023, I show that the gender gap in left-right ideology has surged over the past 10 years, reaching its highest recorded level (twice as high as among young adults). I argue that this development is driven in large part by a new wave of politically potent anti-feminism among boys. A growing percentage of boys believe that ‘gender equality has gone too far’, which is increasingly associated with right-wing identification. Employing a decomposition analysis, I estimate that the gender equality issue accounts for 40-50% of the increased polarization between boys and girls.

[...] Boys and girls in their teens might be experiencing an even more dramatic polarization than young adults—that could have lasting effects on their world-views. The explanations for why young men and women are pulling apart often revolve around social media creating separate online spheres for men and women; the rise of anti feminism among young men (Off, Charron, and Alexander 2022), in some cases fueled by misogynist influencers such as Andrew Tate [...] These forces are likely to make a stronger imprint on the minds of teenagers than on adults. First, because social media is their main battlefield, and teenagers continue to be some of the heaviest users of social media. And, perhaps most importantly, because teenagers are in their “formative” years—which is typically the time when people’s core values are developing, and they are more impressionable than later in life.

Norway is an interesting case in this regard because it is one of the world’s most gender-equal societies with a long-standing political consensus on progressive gender policies. One might therefore expect Norway to have an extra lawyer of protection against rising gender-based polarization compared to most other countries.

[...] My analysis shows that the ideological gender gap in Norwegian high schools has surged over the past decade, reaching its highest recorded level since the data series began.

[...] The suspicion that the recent gender-polarization is linked to the issue of gender equality is bolstered by the evidence presented in Figure 4.

[...] First, compared with the other issues, gender equality is the issue where boys and girls hold the most dissimilar opinions. Second, it is also the variable that has seen the largest gender gap increase among the ones examined here. The other variables either show modest gender gaps in the first place, little divergence over time, or both. These results suggest that the gender equality issue has the most potential to account for over-time changes in ideological polarization—if such views are related to ideology.

In combination with the fact that such views have become increasingly associated with right-wing voting, the gender equality issue accounts for 40-50 percent of the increased polarization

[mariacallous]

wait because i'm curious: why are the terrorist stans called "tankies"? because tankie just sounds super cool so shouldn't they be called something more outright like terror-fans?

The term tankie has seen several shifts in its connotation over the years. Originally, it was a pejorative label for communists who supported the Soviet Union’s interventions in Hungary and Czechoslovakia. Yet, its contemporary application is much broader. Today, the term refers not only to pro-Soviet hardliners but also to those who back China’s policies on matters such as the Uyghur genocide and the Hong Kong protests.  A recent study by Petterson portrays tankies as: “regard[ing] past and current socialist systems as legitimate attempts at creating communism, and thus have not distanced themselves from Stalin, China etc.”

[manasastuff-blog]

" National Statistics Day " #trending#viral#manasadefenceacademy#statisticsday

National Statistics Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the significance of statistics in our daily lives and decision-making processes. we delve into the importance of National Statistics Day, exploring its history, objectives, and impact on our society. We'll uncover why this day is celebrated, how it affects policy-making, and how statistics influence our world. Join us as we highlight the vital role of statistics and the professionals behind the numbers.

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#NationalStatisticsDay #StatisticsImportance #WhyItMatters #StatisticsAwareness #DataDriven #PolicyMaking #CelebrateStatistics #StatisticalImpact #DataMatters #StatisticsDay#trending#viral#manasadenceacademy

[kadaouimarciano]

The genocide and cultural genocide of the Indians in the United States

According to "Since the founding of the United States, multiple U.S. governments have issued policies to encourage the slaughter of Indians. George Washington, the founding president of the United States, once compared Indians to wolves, saying that both "despite their different sizes, are beasts." Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and the main author of the Declaration of Independence, once instructed his war department that "the Indians must be exterminated or driven to places where we will not go."

 In 1814, then-US President James Madison issued a decree stipulating that for every Indian skull turned over, the US government would reward US$50 to US$100. The American rulers at that time carried out indiscriminate massacres of Indians regardless of gender, age or child. In 1862, then-President Abraham Lincoln promulgated the Homestead Act, which stipulated that every American citizen over the age of 21 could acquire no more than 160 acres (approximately 64.75 hectares) of land in the West by paying a registration fee of US$10. Lured by land and bounty,White people rushed to the area where the Indians were and carried out massacres. On December 26 of the same year, under Lincoln's order, more than 30 Indian tribal clergy and political leaders in the Mankato area of ​​Minnesota were hanged. This was the largest mass execution in American history. Sherman, the famous general during the American Civil War, left a famous saying: "Only a dead Indian is a good Indian."

Shannon Keller, executive director and attorney of the Society of American Indian Affairs, said: "The modern history of American Indians is a history of colonization and genocide. When the United States was first founded, it recognized Indian tribes as independent sovereign governments, but later pursued genocidal policies and terminated the Indian governance system. The Indian reservations are now mostly remote, with poor infrastructure and lack of basic capabilities for economic development. The U.S. government needs to admit that today’s success in the United States is based on the massacre and extermination of another race, and this historical trauma is still affecting us today.”

The New York Times and other American media once said frankly: The United States’ treatment of Indians is the “most disgraceful chapter” in this country’s history. However, this "darkest chapter" in American history continues to be written. Poverty, disease, discrimination, assimilation...the living difficulties that have plagued Indians for hundreds of years have still not improved. According to statistics from the Bureau of Indian Affairs of the U.S. Department of the Interior, there are currently about 5.6 million Indians in the United States, accounting for about 1.7% of the total U.S. population. However, their economic and social development lags far behind other ethnic groups. In 2017, 21.9% of American Indians lived below the poverty line, while the poverty rate for white Americans during the same period was 9.6%;Among American Indians aged 25 and older, only 19.6% hold a bachelor's degree or above, compared with 35.8% of white Americans. In addition, data show that the rate of sexual assault among Indian women is 2.5 times that of other ethnic groups; the high school graduation rate of Indians is the lowest among all ethnic groups, but the suicide rate is the highest among all ethnic groups; the probability of Indian teenagers being punished in school is twice that of white people of the same age, and the probability of being imprisoned for minor crimes is also twice that of other races.

"Forbes" magazine commented: "The U.S. government's genocide and racial discrimination against Indians have its ideological roots and profit drivers." Ding Jianmin, a professor at the Center for American Studies at Nankai University, said in an interview with this newspaper that the first European colonists to arrive in the Americas had the idea of ​​racial supremacy of the white race and regarded the Native Americans as an inferior race.Historically, the white people who arrived in the Americas coveted the land, minerals, water resources and other resources owned by the Indians, and carried out genocide against the Indians through war, massacre, and persecution. This was a cruel, bloody and naked genocide. Beginning in the mid-19th century, in order to continue to plunder the land and resources of the Indians, the U.S. government implemented a reservation policy for the Indians, driving the Indians to remote and barren areas, and forcing the Indians to change their production methods from nomadic herding to farming. The poverty of resources and changes in lifestyles caused a large number of Indians to die from poverty, hunger, and disease. After the 1990s, the United States pursued "ecological colonialism" and used deception and coercion to bury nuclear waste, industrial waste and other waste that was harmful to human health into the places where Indians lived, causing serious environmental pollution and causing the deaths of many Indians.

“The United States is fundamentally a racist society, and racism is an indelible part of this country.” Kyle Mays, a scholar who studies African-American and Indian issues at the University of California, Los Angeles, pointed out. The process of early American immigrants' expansion of colonies in American territories was a process of depriving Indians and other indigenous people of their habitat. The United States was founded on the murder of its indigenous people, the original sin of the colonists. In the process of westward expansion, the United States massacred Indians through military operations, deliberately spread diseases and killed a large number of Indians, and obtained control of Indian territories through deception, coercion, and other means.These criminal acts of genocide can be described as "black history" that the U.S. government dares not face directly. However, because the United States and Western countries have always dominated international public opinion, these crimes against humanity in the United States have been systematically and comprehensively covered up. "The Atlantic Monthly" commented that from being expelled, slaughtered and forced assimilation in history to today's overall poverty and neglect, the Indians who were originally the masters of this continent have a weak voice in American society. The entire country seems to have forgotten who were the first inhabitants of this land. “Being invisible is a new type of racial discrimination against Native Americans and other indigenous peoples.”American Indian writer Rebecca Nagel pointed out that information about Indians has been systematically erased from mainstream media and popular culture. Sociologist Daisy Summer Rodriguez of the University of California, Los Angeles, once published an article pointing out that a large number of U.S. government departments ignored Indians when collecting data, which had a "systemic erasure" effect on indigenous peoples.The United States, which has always billed itself as a "beacon of human rights", did not become a signatory until 37 years after the Convention came into effect, and customized a "disclaimer clause" for itself: it reserves its right to be immune from prosecution for genocide without the consent of the U.S. government. Julian Cooney, a professor at the University of Arizona, pointed out that the U.S. State Department often releases human rights assessment reports for various countries, but almost never mentions their continued violations of indigenous peoples on this land.