Even so, it is not exactly unheard-of for political considerations to influence a decision on illegal state-aid.

ECONOMIST: Trouble for the market leader

The book provides practical methods for supporting improved participatory processes, including the application of theory and models to aid decision-making.

UNESCO: Social and Human Sciences

Back in the real world, the Seoul government announced on Nov. 21 that it had made the gut-wrenching decision to seek emergency aid from the International Monetary Fund.

CNN: The Economy, Stupid

Mr. Pierini blames EU treaty law for giving the U.K., France and Germany the power to stifle a common foreign policy and says the separation of aid and humanitarian assistance from the EU's diplomatic decision-making has undermined some of the soft power it can otherwise project.

WSJ: Syria Debate Illustrates EU's Foreign-Policy Weakness

She has been the key vote in a number of notable cases, including a 1995 case limiting affirmative action, a 2002 decision permitting public aid and vouchers to religious and parochial schools, and in several abortion-related cases, where a woman's reproductive rights were narrowly reaffirmed.

CNN: A sensible justice

The political conflict between the president and prime minister has stalled decision-making processes in Romania at a time when it is finalising agreements on an IMF-backed aid package for its economy.

BBC: Romanian parliament votes to suspend President Basescu

But because of the decision to ring-fence the massive health budget from real cuts (together with a commitment to keep raising overseas aid), the cuts in the unprotected areas will be 25%.

ECONOMIST: Britain's emergency budget