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India Withdraws Medical Curriculum Section on Lesbianism as a Sexual Offense

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India Withdraws Medical Curriculum Section on Lesbianism as a Sexual Offense

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The Indian government has removed a section in the medical curriculum that classified lesbianism as a sexual offense, a significant step toward changing outdated and discriminatory views within the educational system.
Keywords: India, medical curriculum, lesbianism, LGBTQ+ rights, education reform.
The decision is a progressive move toward eliminating homophobic biases in India's medical education system, but broader reforms are needed to ensure LGBTQ+ rights are fully protected in all spheres of society.

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NMC takes a U-turn, withdraws medical curriculum that labelled lesbianism as 'sexual offence'

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The revised forensic medicine curriculum had also re-introduced topics such as importance of hymen, definition of virginity and defloration, and its legitimacy and medico-legal importance

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Georgia Introduces Controversial LGBTQ+ ‘Propaganda’ Law

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Georgia Introduces Controversial LGBTQ+ ‘Propaganda’ Law

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Georgia's new law targets so-called LGBTQ+ ‘propaganda’, which could severely limit the visibility and rights of the LGBTQ+ community in the country. This law has sparked international criticism for its human rights implications.
Keywords: Georgia, LGBTQ+ propaganda law, censorship, human rights, LGBTQ+ activism.
This legislation represents a concerning shift toward repression in Georgia and sets a dangerous precedent for other countries looking to curtail LGBTQ+ rights under the guise of ‘protecting’ cultural values.

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PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news

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Georgia passes anti-LGBTQ+ law that could see Pride flags and events banned

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Georgia has passed an ‘LGBT Propaganda’ style bill banning several rights for LGBTQ+ people including rights to adopt and marriage.

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Taiwan Steps Up in LGBTQ+ Rights Amid Rising Tensions with China

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Taiwan Steps Up in LGBTQ+ Rights Amid Rising Tensions with China

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Taiwan remains a leader in LGBTQ+ rights in Asia, as it continues to uphold same-sex marriage legislation despite rising political tensions with China, where LGBTQ+ rights remain repressed.
Keywords: Taiwan, China, LGBTQ+ rights, same-sex marriage, political tension.
Taiwan's commitment to human rights, even under external pressures from China, highlights the stark contrast between the two countries’ political and social policies. The international community’s support for Taiwan is critical in maintaining this progress.

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PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news

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Taiwan has announced that it will recognise same-sex marriages between Taiwanese and Chinese nationals, giving couples the right to register their unions under the same regulations as heterosexuals.

The couples will be able to register their marriages in Taiwan after tying the knot outside the island nation or China, after providing relevant documentation and passing an interview, a press release published on the Ministry of the Interior website said.

"The Ministry of the Interior pointed out that cross-strait couples marrying each other in a third place will follow the practice of heterosexual marriages in terms of document verification, interview mechanisms and marriage procedures," the statement read.

"For people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait who are not married in a third place (regardless of heterosexual or same-sex marriages), they should still follow the Regulations on the Relationship between the People of Taiwan and the Mainland and the relevant provisions of the current practice."

The move is expected to benefit hundreds of couples in Taiwan.

In a joint statement, LGBTQ+ groups in Taiwan said they welcomed the change, describing it as a "a long-awaited, difficult but navigable path home" but noted that, because same-sex couples must get married in a third place, they "still have higher economic and class barriers to marriage".

LGBTQ+ legislator Huang Jie, a member of the left-leaning Democratic Progressive Party and first out queer person to be elected, welcomed the announcement and said she had received many requests for help from cross-strait same-sex couples since equal marriage was legalised.

Taiwan legalised same-sex marriage in 2019, becoming the first Asian nation to do so, in a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ rights in the region. The move followed the country's top court ruling that defining marriage as being between only a man and a woman was unconstitutional.

Last year, the nation of 23 million people - which China claims as its own and which it seeks to bring under its control - granted full adoption rights to same-sex couples.

Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.

Please login or register to comment on this story.

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Taiwan to recognise same-sex marriages between Chinese and Taiwanese nationals

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Taiwan will recognise same-sex marriages between Taiwanese-Chinese nationals, giving couples the right to register their unions.

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Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first female president

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Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first female president

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espite the celebratory atmosphere, the election was marred by violence, with over 20 local candidates reportedly killed. Sheinbaum aims to address the root causes of violence and crime, particularly by investing in welfare programs to deter youth recruitment into criminal groups. She also plans to foster a respectful relationship with the United States while advocating for Mexicans living there.

Trending Concept

The trend of increasing female leadership and representation in politics, alongside the ongoing issues of violence and crime in electoral contexts.

Industries

Political and Governance: Women's Representation

Public Safety and Security: Crime Prevention

Social Services and Welfare: Welfare Programs

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Claudia Sheinbaum celebrates 'historic' victory
Claudia Sheinbaum has been elected as Mexico's first female president, in a historic landslide win.
Mexico's official electoral authority said preliminary results showed the 61-year-old former mayor of Mexico City winning between 58% and 60% of the vote in Sunday's election.

That gives her a lead of about 30 percentage points over her main rival, businesswoman Xóchitl Gálvez.

Ms Sheinbaum will replace her mentor, outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, on 1 October.

The election of a woman to the highest office was an emotional moment for some

Ms Sheinbaum, a former energy scientist, has promised continuity, saying that she will continue to build on the "advances" made by Mr López Obrador, further building on the welfare programmes which have made the outgoing president very popular.

But in her victory speech she also highlighted what has set this Mexican election apart from previous ones. She told cheering voters: "For the first time in the 200 years of the [Mexican] Republic, I will become the first woman president of Mexico."

She said it was an achievement not just for her but for all women.

"I've said it from the start, this is not just about me getting [to the top office], it's about all of us getting here."

She added: "I won't fail you."

Ms Sheinbaum also thanked her rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, who has conceded victory.

Prior to running for president, Ms Sheinbaum was mayor of Mexico City, one of the most influential political positions in the country and one that is seen as paving the way for the presidency.

Ms Sheinbaum, whose Jewish maternal grandparents immigrated to Mexico from Bulgaria fleeing the Nazis, had an illustrious career as a scientist before delving into politics. Her paternal grandparents hailed from Lithuania.

Both of her parents were scientists and Ms Sheinbaum studied physics before going on to receive a doctorate in energy engineering.

She spent years at a renowned research lab in California studying Mexican energy consumption patterns and became an expert on climate change.

That experience and her student activism eventually earned her the position of secretary of the environment for Mexico City at the time when Andrés Manuel López Obrador was mayor of the capital.

In 2018 she became the first female mayor of Mexico City, a post she held until 2023, when she stepped down to run for president.

Supporters of Claudia Sheinbaum gathered at the Zócalo to celebrate

The election, which pitted Ms Sheinbaum against Ms Gálvez, has been described as a sea change for women in Mexico.

Edelmira Montiel, 87, said that she was grateful to be alive to see a woman elected to the top office.

"Before, we couldn't even vote, and when you could, it was to vote for the person your husband told you to vote for. Thank God that has changed and I get to live it," she told Reuters news agency, referring to the fact that women were only allowed to vote in national elections in 1953.

While the fact that the two front-runners were women was widely celebrated, the campaign was marred by violent attacks.

As well as a new president, voters were also electing all members of Mexico's Congress and governors in eight states, the head of Mexico City's government, and thousands of local officials.

And it was local candidates in particular who were targeted in the run-up to the vote.

The government says more than 20 were killed across Mexico, although other surveys put the total at 37.

Ms Gálvez harshly criticised the government and her rival in the presidential race for the violence which blights large parts of Mexico.

She promised to be "the bravest president, a president who does confront crime" if elected, but failed to provide many details about how she would tackle the powerful criminal cartels which are behind much of the violence.

After Ms Sheinbaum's lead became unassailable, Ms Gálvez called her.

"I told her I saw a Mexico with a lot of pain and violence. I wished that she could solve the severe problems our people have," Ms Gálvez said of the call.

How to tackle Mexico's violent cartels is going to be one of the many challenges facing Ms Sheinbaum when she takes up office.

She has said that it is important to tackle what she says are the roots of the violence and has promised to invest in welfare programmes to prevent poor young Mexicans from being recruited by criminal groups.

On relations with Mexico's northern neighbour, the United States, which at times have been testy under her predecessor in office, she said she would ensure there would be "a relationship of friendship, mutual respect and equality".

But in a reference to the many Mexicans living and working in the US, she promised to "always defend the Mexicans who are on the other side of the border".

Relations between the US and Mexico suffered under Mr López Obrador, who has been in power since 2018.

The outspoken leader was barred from running for a second term under Mexico's constitution, which limits presidents to a single six-year-term.

He threw his weight behind Ms Sheinbaum instead.

Having the backing of the popular president, who has an approval rate of close to 60%, gave Ms Sheinbaum's campaign a huge boost.

Many of those voting for her said they backed her and Mr López Obrador's party programme to alleviate poverty and wanted to see it continued.
With additional reporting by BBC Monitoring in Miami.

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Mexico elects Sheinbaum as first woman president

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Claudia Sheinbaum has beaten her rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, by a landslide to become Mexico's next leader.

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An Indian techie in Canada earns ₹60 lakh annually but faces the challenge of paying ₹99,000 in rent for a single room, highlighting the high cost of living despite a good salary.

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An Indian techie in Canada earns ₹60 lakh annually but faces the challenge of paying ₹99,000 in rent for a single room, highlighting the high cost of living despite a good salary.

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As most countries in the world are suffering from a cost-of-living crisis, an Indian techie has gone viral for saying that a salary of $100,000 a year ( ₹60 lakhs) is not enough to survive in Canada.

The Indian woman said she has a total work experience of over 10 years and earns around $100,000 in a year.(Instagram/salaryscale)

In the video, Piyush Monga who runs the Instagram page, salaryscale, asked a woman on the street how much she makes in a year and if she plans to stay in Canada.

"I don't think anyone answers yes to that question anymore. Maybe I will stay for a couple of years and then move somewhere closer to home," she answers.

When asked what she does for a living, the woman responded that she was a test lead (a techie who oversees testing of a software before its production) at a bank. (Also read: Ex Google employee from India reveals salary in new Canada job: 'Can hardly survive')

Watch the viral video here:

The woman said she has a total work experience of over 10 years and earns around $100,000 in a year, which she calls "not that much given the current economy."

Asked if she was happy with her salary, she frustratedly answers, "Not at all."

When the interviewer seemed confused, she explained. "It is not easy to live in Toronto with that sort of money. It's really bad," she said.

"Inflation does not hit like that in India"

"For a person sitting in India, that's ₹60 lakh a year. How is that not enough?" the interviewer asked.

The techie said the prices of everything have risen since she came to Canada three years ago. "A stick of butter was $4, now it's $8. So inflation is very real," she said.

She also added that inflation is not as bad in India as it is in Canada. "It does not hit you like that in India."

The woman said she rents a single room and it costs her $1,600 or ₹99,000. (Also read: Work-life balance over salary? 47% of Gen Z plans to leave jobs within two years)

"People are earning a lot less"

Most Instagram users disagree with the techie's opinions and said that her salary was sufficient for a single person. "95k should be enough for one person! A lot of people are earning less than that in Toronto," on user wrote.

The interviewer also said that he thought the salary was enough for one person. "$95,000 is not enough for Toronto? Well, this is a personal take. I guess $95,000 is enough for a single person but, our test lead in the house has a different take on it," he wrote in the caption.

However, others agreed that the money may not be enough for someone with financial burden. "FYI some people might have a lot of responsibilities. Maybe she has loans to repay. Stop judging based on half stories," another user said.

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Indian techie gets ₹60 lakh salary in Canada, pays ₹99,000 rent for single room

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The Indian woman, who works at a bank, said her salary was not enough to survive in Toronto, Canada. | Trending

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Zomato shuts intercity food delivery service Legends due to lack of product-market fit

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Zomato shuts intercity food delivery service Legends due to lack of product-market fit

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Zomato, a popular food delivery platform, has discontinued its intercity food delivery service, Legends. The decision was made due to a lack of product-market fit, indicating that the service failed to meet customer demand or achieve profitability.

Industries Affected:

Product and Service

Business Strategy

Socio Culture

Industry

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Zomato shuts intercity food delivery service Legends due to lack of product-market fit

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In its second version, the company tweaked the model to deliver pre-stocked items from other cities with a shorter delivery timeline. A senior company executive had earlier told ET that next-day deliveries did not solve customers hunger pangs.

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India’s loneliness crisis explained: Why Gen Z is feeling more isolated than ever:

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India’s loneliness crisis explained: Why Gen Z is feeling more isolated than ever:

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The news addresses the rising loneliness crisis in India, especially among Gen Z, and explores the reasons behind their heightened sense of isolation. It emphasizes the need to understand and address the mental health challenges associated with this trend.

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India, a country with one of the world's youngest populations, is aware of the potential and influence of Generation Z or 'Zoomers'. Considered one of the most evolved generations, it is the first cohort to grow up in the digital age - where the world witnessed rapid technological advancements. People belonging to this age group are highly independent, tech-savvy, and socially aware individuals.

Gen Z-ers today have made a mark for themselves by becoming young achievers in several fields, not only at the national level but also at the global. Amid all the success stories and the excitement for the next big development in the tech world, however, several accounts are less talked about. Among them is what experts have termed the ' loneliness epidemic'. Described as the profound feeling of isolation, it has taken over the lives of many young Indians.

Recent surveys and statistics paint a grim picture of this crisis. According to The World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 10% of adolescents are lonely. Additionally, a 2021 global survey by Ipsos revealed that 4 in 10 urban Indians (43%) said they felt lonely and friendless at most times, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Despite a lot of Gen Z people having friends and socialising, they may still feel lonely. Loneliness may not be a simple lack of connections, but a lack of emotionally fulfilling connections," asserts Malika Chandra, psychotherapist, MC Psychotherapy.

Root causes of loneliness among Gen Z

A 2020 study published in suggests that in recent years, family and community dynamics have drastically changed. It states, "Earlier, India had a strong social structure at its place. Joint families, The International Journal of Indian Psychology strong bonding with neighbours and relatives, leisure time activities which strengthen the bond even stronger, grand and joint celebration of various festivals, visiting relatives on vacations and living there for a week or two, and many other practices were in place which created an environment where 'loneliness' could hardly be thought of."

As such, loneliness among the youth can be attributed to several factors. Dr Vijayshree Bajaj, psychologist and mental well-being coach at MedyMind, mentions that while social media platforms provide a sense of connection, they can also contribute to loneliness by fostering shallow relationships and unrealistic comparisons. "Gen Z often experiences FOMO (fear of missing out) and may feel inadequate when comparing their lives to idealised versions presented online. Technology has made constant connectivity possible, but it lacks the quality and depth of face-to-face interactions," she adds.

Additionally, Gen Z faces immense pressure to excel academically, leading to a lack of time for social interactions and leisure activities from a very young age. This constant focus on achievement can result in feelings of isolation and disconnect from peers. Traditional family structures are evolving, Dr Bajaj says, with many Gen Z individuals experiencing dual-income households, single-parent families, or living away from extended family members due to various circumstances. This can also lead to reduced emotional support and a sense of loneliness.

Further, despite growing awareness, particularly in India, she agrees, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health issues in India. Gen Z may hesitate to seek help for feelings of loneliness or anxiety, further exacerbating their sense of isolation.

Unlike just a few decades ago, the traditional community and societal structure have broken down, leading to a lack of meaningful connections. "With a focus on digital communication, Gen Z may have fewer face-to-face interactions and meaningful conversations. This, too, can lead to a sense of disconnectedness and loneliness despite being constantly connected online," Dr Bajaj discloses.

What do Gen Z Indians have to say about feeling lonely?

When we spoke to young individuals who have experienced loneliness, almost all of them blamed Covid lockdowns for making them feel particularly lonely or disconnected from others. "I started feeling really isolated, especially during COVID but even a bit before that. But when the lockdown hit, it was like the loneliness peaked," admits Aashna Gurav, brand management and marketing consultant.

Gurav adds that societal pressures, such as academic expectations or career goals, have impacted her sense of connection with others. "Our generation has faced immense pressure, whether it's excelling academically or chasing professional milestones. It's like a relentless race we can't escape." Seeing 19-year-old billionaires making headlines, she feels that the pressure is very high. "The older generation is leading us at workplaces. They're not as sensitised about things like work-life balance," she continues.

"While I attempt to distract myself with various activities, there are occasions when I find myself free and still plagued by these feelings. Overthinking makes it worse," reveals 23-year-old public relations professional Pratibha Sahu. To help get rid of feelings of isolation, she has begun prioritising face-to-face interactions and building physical networks. While social media platforms offer updates on others' lives, she admits, they often exacerbate feelings of loneliness by fostering a sense of inadequacy through constant comparison and perseverance of other life updates through their posts.

A content writer, 27, based in Delhi says that he believes that there's a decent level of awareness about mental health challenges, including loneliness, especially within this generation due to increased education and the influence of social media. But within the larger society, there is scope for improvement. "Despite the growing awareness, many still suffer in silence, hesitant to acknowledge their struggles due to fear of judgment or societal stigma. The support systems exist, but they remain underutilised and overshadowed by the prevailing culture of silence," he emphasises.

Impact of loneliness on mental health

Prolonged loneliness has been linked to a multitude of other psychological and surprisingly, physical illnesses as well. "This ranges from depression and anxiety to diabetes," Chandra discloses, adding that on another level, prolonged loneliness can also reduce positive resources within a person over time, making it harder to counter the negative effects of loneliness.

Celebrity life coach Prasidhi Aneja reflects on the struggles of Gen Z with asking for help due to their tendency to act like they have all the answers, which can compound their confusion. "Social isolation is as harmful as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and can lead to health problems or substance abuse," she warns.

Dr Rahul Chandhok, head psychiatrist and head consultant, Mental Health and Behavioural Science at Artemis Hospitals asserts that untreated loneliness during young adulthood can have significant long-term consequences on overall mental health and functioning as individuals transition into adulthood. It contributes to the development or exacerbation of chronic mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders. He continues, "These conditions can persist into adulthood and have a significant impact on daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being."

If loneliness is left unchecked for a long time, Aneja shares, it can lead to various emotional, behavioural, and health issues. One common problem she focuses on is insomnia, where people struggle to get enough sleep leading to symptoms of depression, such as extreme fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

What are some solutions to better support individuals struggling with loneliness?

When it comes to feelings of loneliness, it is important to understand and empathise with what Gen Z is going through. The rapid expansion of technology, socio-cultural changes, rise of social media, Covid lockdown, independence, and an increased pressure to excel in their careers as well as the workplace have all contributed to feelings of seclusion from loved ones as well as the society at large.

Aneja recommends that it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges faced by Gen Z and accepting these issues opens the door to trying various strategies and seeking therapeutic help. Chandra concurs, adding that including mental health education in school would be a great start. "There also must be education on the proper use of social media and its limitations to providing social connection. We must encourage more organic and authentic strategies of forming connections," she remarks.

Dr Bajaj asserts the crucial role that families can play. "Strong family dynamics and parental involvement provide essential emotional support for young individuals. Knowing they have a supportive family to turn to can alleviate feelings of loneliness and foster a sense of belonging."

Furthermore, Dr Chandhok urges employers to encourage a culture that values work-life balance by offering flexible work arrangements, promoting regular breaks, and discouraging long working hours. Giving employees' space for their personal lives will contribute to their overall well-being and reduce feelings of stress and burnout, fostering a sense of fulfillment in the long term.

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India's loneliness crisis explained: Why Gen Z is feeling more isolated than ever

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Feeling alone in the crowd? You're not alone! India's Gen Z struggles with loneliness despite being hyper-connected. Social media, pressure to excel, and broken family structures are blamed. Experts offer solutions like face-to-face interaction, family support, and mental health awareness.

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Who Will Help Gen Z with Anxiety, Depression, Suicide? Youth Pastors Turn to Counseling.:

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Who Will Help Gen Z with Anxiety, Depression, Suicide? Youth Pastors Turn to Counseling.:

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New awareness of mental health sends ministers in search of resources. The news discusses how youth pastors are increasingly turning to counseling to help Gen Z cope with rising issues of anxiety, depression, and suicide. It highlights their role in providing support and the need for specialized training to address these mental health challenges effectively.

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Who Will Help Gen Z with Anxiety, Depression, Suicide? Youth Pastors Turn to Counseling. - Christianity Today

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New awareness of mental health sends ministers in search of resources.

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the need for gender-sensitive solutions to address the climate crisis, recognizing that women are particularly vulnerable to its effects.

Industry: environmentalism, gender studies, and development studies.

The climate crisis has a significant impact on women in developing countries, affecting their economic opportunities, health, safety, and well-being. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account both climate change mitigation and gender equality.

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NEW YORK, Jul 31 (IPS) - Global warming, widely believed to be a universal crisis, will actually impact girls and women far more than boys and men. It is already known that we live in a patriarchal world, one in which men are afforded far greater opportunities for success while women generally hold less societal power and have access to fewer resources. This especially pertains to developing countries in which agriculture related work, usually delegated to females, depends on a variety of environmental factors and subsequently, significantly hurts their livelihoods.

In addition, women are generally far more susceptible to poverty, discrimination, and social injustice, all of which are magnified by the climate crisis. It is also important to note that global warming puts reproductive health in jeopardy as rising temperatures and a lack of resources increase the chances of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, and maternal mortality.

Moreover, there is a direct correlation between environmental harm and domestic violence, sexual exploitation, and a loss of education for women. Furthermore, answers to the climate crisis are generally male-centered and do not keep these inequities in mind. It is essential for the future of the planet that we come up with universal solutions to reverse global warming, ones that yield benefits for all.

As stated, global warming and the climate crisis has a significant impact on the livelihoods of women. As the climate crisis causes temperatures to rise globally, jobs in agriculture diminish in frequency. Climate change is directly linked to higher rates of drought, famine, flooding, erosion, and a loss in crop yields. Women constitute the majority of agriculture jobs globally, accounting for approximately 45-80 percent of all food production in developing countries, according to the UN article, "Women, Gender Equality, and Climate Change". This often displaces women financially as their job security is highly dependent on a stable environment and natural resources.

Additionally, the consequences of this familial financial displacement often causes girls to be pulled out of school, which essentially keeps them from gaining employment in fields beyond agriculture. The CNN article, "How the climate crisis fuels gender inequality" states that communities that are affected by environmental harm are often faced with the decision to place their young children into the workforce early in order to support their households. In developing countries, such as Nigeria, girls are discouraged from pursuing an education and therefore, the climate crisis only amplifies that sentiment.

Habiba Mohammed, the director of the Center for Girls' Education, states, "when we give the girls education on climate change, how to mitigate it, it will go a long way in helping the girls in how to support themselves in times of difficulties, and even help them prepare for it". It is apparent that the climate crisis strips women in developing countries of their opportunities and essentially keeps them in a state of economic vulnerability.

The climate crisis also has a far greater detriment on the physical health and wellbeing of women than men. For example, women are afforded far fewer resources than men, including access to clean water and food. The UN article states "global warming is one of the leading causes and greatest contributors to world hunger, malnutrition, exposure to disease, and declining access to water. Moreover it poses limitations to adequate housing, spurring the loss of livelihoods as a result of permanent displacement". As essential resources diminish, the remainder is often left to those at the top of society, men. Therefore, women have much higher chances of dying from these consequences.

It is also important to note that the climate crisis has a disastrous effect on reproductive health. In the United States, BIPOC communities are more likely to be placed in lower income neighborhoods, which have higher levels of pollution and restricted access to clean living. This causes Black women to be 2.6 times more likely to die from childbirth related complications due to environmental factors caused by climate change. Furthermore, women in developing countries are highly susceptible to complications due to high temperatures. The article, "How the Climate Crisis Affects Reproductive Rights" states that rising temperatures are responsible for an increase in stillbirth, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, malaria, fibrosis, and stress related illnesses.

Additionally, it is stated that pregnant women are far more likely to die from the spread of disease due to flooding, which is a consequence of climate change, and are less likely to receive prenatal care. Therefore, the climate crisis not only limits a woman's access to healthcare but also disproportionately exacerbates rates of disease and death for women.

It is also crucial to acknowledge the link between the climate crisis and gender related abuse. Cases of gender discrimination, domestic violence, and sexual exploitation are already massive concerns globally but are only exacerbated by environmental devastation and natural disasters. The article, "How Climate Change and Instability Exacerbate Sexual- and Gender-Based Violence and Violence Against Women and Girls" states that climate change often causes women and children to migrate away from their families and into unfamiliar and potentially dangerous areas, greatly increasing the risk of abuse, stalking, sexual trafficking, and even "female genital mutilation".

In addition, these women are far more likely to turn to sex work in order to support themselves, which can not only be potentially dangerous but also increases their chances of developing STDs and HIV. The article also states that in Ethiopia, due to dire conditions caused by famine, sexual violence has run rampant and there aren't systems in place to protect them or let them acquire justice.

It is imperative that we find sustainable solutions to climate change that not only include fe male perspectives but also tackle issues of gender inequality. As Earth begins to be stripped of her resources, so do women, and therefore, we do not have any time to waste.
Sources Used:

1. https://www.un.org/womenwatch/feature/climate_change/downloads/Women_and_Climate_Change_Factsheet.pdf

2. https://www.cnn.com/interactive/2023/11/world/climate-gender-inequality-cnnphotos-as-equals-intl-cmd/

3. https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/02/09/how-climate-crisis-affects-reproductive-rights

4. https://now.org/blog/how-climate-change-and-instability-exacerbate-sexual-and-gender-based-violence-and-violence-against-women-and-girls/

Oritro Karim is a recent graduate from Rochester Institute of Technology and a working illustrator, graphic designer, painter, and writer.
IPS UN Bureau
Follow @IPSNewsUNBureau© Inter Press Service (2024) - All Rights Reserved Original source: Inter Press Service
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<p><a href="https://www.globalissues.org/news/2024/07/31/37338">The Price Women Pay for Climate Change</a>, <cite>Inter Press Service</cite>, Wednesday, July 31, 2024 (posted by Global Issues)</p>

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The Price Women Pay for Climate Change, Inter Press Service, Wednesday, July 31, 2024 (posted by Global Issues)

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NEW YORK, Jul 31 (IPS) - Global warming, widely believed to be a universal crisis, will actually impact girls and women far more than boys and men. It is already known that we live in a patriarchal world, one in which men are afforded far greater opportunities for success while women generally hold less societal power and have access to fewer resources.

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States with strictest abortion laws offer the least support for women and families

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States with strictest abortion laws offer the least support for women and families

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the need for comprehensive support systems for low-income families, including both reproductive healthcare and social safety nets. It highlights the potential negative consequences of abortion bans on the economic and social well-being of vulnerable populations.

Industry: public health, social policy, and reproductive rights.

Abortion bans can have a significant impact on the economic and social well-being of low-income families. By limiting access to reproductive healthcare, these bans can force women to carry unwanted pregnancies to term, which can have negative consequences for their health, education, and employment opportunities.

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States with strictest abortion laws offer the least support for women and families

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Researchers evaluated states on access to maternal and family social services, childcare assistance and supplemental nutritional programs for families with children.

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Teen brains 'aged' during Covid lockdowns, new research suggests

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Teen brains 'aged' during Covid lockdowns, new research suggests

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The study raises concerns about the long-term consequences of these changes on mental health and cognitive function.

Industry: public health, neuroscience, and adolescent development.

Increased anxiety, depression, and other behavioral problems in teenagers.

Impaired cognitive function, such as slower processing and reduced flexibility in thinking. Potential long-term risks for mental health and neurological disorders.

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Teen brains ‘aged’ during Covid lockdowns, new research suggests

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Brain scans show that girls were especially affected by the loss of social interaction.

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Facing slowdown, Indian IT companies are undergoing a shift: Here’s what’s changing

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Facing slowdown, Indian IT companies are undergoing a shift: Here’s what’s changing

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Indian IT companies are experiencing a slowdown in growth due to factors such as global economic uncertainty and increased competition.

To navigate this challenging environment, these companies are undergoing significant changes, including focusing on emerging technologies, cost optimization, and talent retention.

Industries Affected:

Information Technology

Global economy

IT services

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Facing slowdown, Indian IT companies are undergoing a shift: Here’s what’s changing - Times of India

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TECH NEWS : Indian IT service providers like TCS, HCLTech, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra have restructured their businesses and leadership teams in response to a slowd

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Amazon tells staff to get back to office five days a week

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Amazon tells staff to get back to office five days a week

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Amazon has mandated a return to the office for its employees, requiring them to work five days a week.

This decision marks a shift away from the flexible work arrangements adopted during the pandemic and aligns with a growing trend among tech companies to bring employees back to physical workplaces.

Industries Affected:

Technology industry

Workplace culture

Business Shift

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Amazon tells staff to get back to office five days a week

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The e-commerce giant is ending hybrid working and will stop people hot-desking in the US.

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Microsoft is turning to AI to make its workplace more inclusive

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Microsoft is turning to AI to make its workplace more inclusive

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Microsoft is implementing AI-powered tools to enhance workplace inclusivity.

These tools aim to reduce bias, improve communication, and create a more equitable environment for employees.

Industries Affected:

Technological shift

Innovation

Culture

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Microsoft's chief diversity officer says diversity and investment in the workforce can help fix AI's bias problems.
At the beginning of 2023, Microsoft found itself in a PR firestorm. The company was working to demonstrate its progress in artificial intelligence following a multi-billion dollar investment in OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT. It added an AI powered chatbot into its Bing search engine, which placed it among the first legacy tech companies to fold AI into its flagship products, but almost as soon as people started using it, things went sideways.

A New York Times journalist sparked international intrigue over a conversation he had with Bing that left him "deeply unsettled". Soon, users began sharing screenshots that appeared to show the tool using racial slurs and announcing plans for world domination. Microsoft quickly announced a fix, limiting the AI's responses and capabilities. In the following months, the company replaced its Bing chatbot with Copilot, which is now available as part of its Microsoft 365 software and Windows operating system.

Microsoft is far from the only company to face AI controversy, and critics say the debacle is evidence of broader carelessness around the dangers of artificial intelligence within the tech industry. For example, Google's Bard tool famously answered a question about a telescope inaccurately during a live press demo, a mistake that wiped $100bn (£82bn) off the company's value. The AI model, now called Gemini, later came under fire for "woke" bias after the tool seemed unwilling to produce images of white people for certain prompts.

Still, Microsoft says AI can be a tool to promote equity and representation - with the right safeguards. One solution it's putting forward to help address the issue of bias in AI is increasing diversity and inclusion of the teams building the technology itself.

"It's never been more important as we think about building inclusive AI and inclusive tech for the future," says Lindsay-Rae McIntyre, Microsoft's chief diversity officer, who joined the firm in 2018.

A former teacher for the deaf, McIntyre has spent over 20 years in human resources in the tech industry, including at IBM, and has lived and worked throughout the US as well as in Singapore and Dubai. Now, she says her team at Microsoft is increasingly focused on embedding inclusion practices into the firm's AI research and development to make sure there is better representation "at all levels of the company".

There's good reason for this focus. Embracing AI products has brought new life to the nearly 50-year-old brand. In July, the company reported revenue for the year was up 15% to $64.7 billion (£49.2 billion), due largely to growth from its Azure cloud business, which has greatly benefited from the AI boom as customers train their systems on the platform.

The efforts also push the company closer to its long-time goal to build technology "that understands us", as its CEO Satya Nadella recently put it. But in order for AI - or more specifically large-language models such as ChatGPT - to be empathic, relevant and accurate, McIntyre says, they needs to be trained by a more diverse group of developers, engineers and researchers.

This may not be a guaranteed fix. The large language models that underpin tools such as Copilot, ChatGPT and Gemini are built by scraping massive data sets from across the internet. If bias is present in the training data, it's exceedingly difficult to stop it from cropping up later, which is of particular concern as artificial intelligence is used out in the real world.

Still, Microsoft believes that AI can support diversity and inclusion (D&I) if these ideals are built into AI models in the first place. The company maintains that inclusion has always been a large part of its culture, from the Xbox Adaptive Controller designed for users with special needs to the many accessibility features in its Microsoft 365 products. But the pressure to keep up with the pace and scale at which AI is growing is intensifying Microsoft's need to invest in its own diversity.

In its 2023 diversity report, Microsoft reported about 54.8% of its core workforce is made up of racial and ethnic minorities, which is in line in part to rivals such as Apple and Google. Meanwhile, Microsoft's workforce is 31.2% women, down a few percentage points compared to Apple and Google.

Below, McIntrye talks with the BBC about addressing biases in generative AI, how inclusive allyship looks across different cultures, and what Microsoft is doing to ensure its own talent can keep pace with AI's rapid evolution.
How is Microsoft addressing bias in generative AI that afflicts these types of tools?
We do a tremendous amount of investment [around this] but we also thread education on elements like bias and inclusion generally through all the work that we do.

Microsoft believes AI technologies should perform fairly. We are continuing to invest in research on identifying, measuring and mitigating different types of fairness-related harms, and we are innovating in new ways to proactively test our AI systems, as outlined in our Responsible AI Standard. To do this, Microsoft works with a wide array of experts, including anthropologists, linguists and social scientists - all of whom bring valuable perspectives to the table that advance and challenge the thinking of our engineers and developers.

To develop and deploy AI systems responsibly, we are putting D&I at the centre by ensuring a wide range of backgrounds, skills and experiences are represented across the Microsoft teams that are envisioning and building AI so that it's developed in a way that's inclusive of all users. We also ensure our leaders who are making the decisions about these teams and products have the tools to understand issues of privilege, power and bias.
Microsoft received backlash this summer following headlines around cutting its diversity and inclusion team. The company later clarified Are there any other focus areas when it comes to AI and inclusivity? the team remained intact. Has there been a change to the company's commitment here?
We are really fortunate Microsoft's commitment to diversity and inclusion is unwavering and unchanged. We're expanding. In that news cycle, I was reminded of how many people are depending on Microsoft to have inclusive tech, to make sure that we are continuing to stay on the forefront of the diversity and inclusion experiences, to share our learnings and to listen to how other people are experiencing this same moment in the industry. Not because we know more than anybody else - because for sure we don't, we're learning all the time - but we do have resources that not all companies have.
How do you help a workforce of 230,000 understand allyship when it looks different in various cultures?
One that is pretty dynamic is [making AI accessible] in more languages. When you're operating in a language different from your primary language, your brain has to work harder and you're less productive and less able to be your true authentic self. There's a real ongoing opportunity in AI to be even more thoughtful and relevant on the totality of global language. It's an enormous task, but we're learning so much every day and the AI is just getting smarter.

Beyond AI, we did a partnership with external organisations who support the LGBTQ+ communities and our own employee resource group about adding pronouns to user profiles in Microsoft 365. [This allows people] to feel seen, recognised and cared for in the technology, which is the experience we want them to have.

We have a core strategy but also localise it. In India, for example, we just ran a D&I experience at the intersection of race, ethnicity and religion for managers and leaders. Through feedback, we were also able to have Copilot pop up with responses that are both qualitative and quantitative so that we can be more effective as we deploy it to the whole of the workforce.
How do you make sure talent doesn't get left behind as AI is evolving?
We're also doing that in Australia and New Zealand for the indigenous communities. And in the Middle East and Africa, we wanted more support for employees and their families who are going through menopause - something that isn't always talked about in cultures around the world.
How is Microsoft leveraging AI in HR?
We also have to think about something as simple as the devices and the languages people are using, along with the accessibility features. Everyone wants an empathetic AI that is knowledgeable and relevant. We want to feel like the AI understands us and what we're trying to achieve. So, being able to have cultural context in the AI experience will result in a more satisfied experience - and those expectations that we put on the technology ultimately come from having a diverse workforce working on and building and creating the AI from the beginning.

We have an incredible AI learning hub that allows us to access the latest and greatest learnings... and the employee resource group is doing upskilling, leveraging some of the content to even teach themselves. Whether they are an engineer or a field seller or a program manager, we offer AI [courses]to help make us more productive - even those of us in HR. We have a huge HR team that's focused on how to leverage AI for the HR experience at Microsoft.

For example, Copilot is helping us get back to employees with questions faster. We are also deploying AI skilling courses, so all employees have a shared understanding of AI technology as we use it more and more in our work across business areas.

For any organisation considering how to bring AI into HR work, there are three strategies to consider. First, form a community of learning with experts to build acumen together. Get curious with the technology, such as engaging with Copilot to learn how it can help you build inclusion in your organisation. And finally, ensure a human-centred design that puts empathy and people experience at the centre.

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Microsoft is turning to AI to make its workplace more inclusive

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Microsoft is turning to AI to make its workplace more inclusive

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Silent Rise of Alternative Sporting Movements

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Silent Rise of Alternative Sporting Movements

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The rise of padel and why it's so popular

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The rise of padel and why it's so popular

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a racquet sport invented in 1969, has experienced significant global growth in recent years. Celebrities and athletes alike have embraced the sport, contributing to its popularity. The article explores the origins of padel, its rules, and the factors contributing to its rapid expansion.

Industry: This news primarily falls under the sports industry.

Global Popularity: Padel's increasing popularity has created new opportunities for players, coaches, and businesses involved in the sport.

Economic Growth: The growth of padel has the potential to generate economic benefits through the construction of courts, equipment sales, and tourism associated with padel events.

Social Impact: Padel can promote physical activity, social interaction, and community engagement.

Competitive Landscape: The rise of padel may impact the competitive landscape of other racquet sports, such as tennis and squash.

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Padel: What is it and why is the racquet sport so popular?

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BBC Sport look at the growth of the racquet game, loved by celebrities and footballers alike.

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How adult playgrounds are revolutionising fitness in more ways than one

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How adult playgrounds are revolutionising fitness in more ways than one

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The concept of the article is about adult playgrounds and how they are revolutionizing fitness. The major trend is that adult playgrounds are becoming increasingly popular as a way for people to get exercise and improve their mental and emotional well-being.

This trend is affecting the following industries:

Fitness

Mental health

Urban planning

Construction

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From one to 29 medals: India’s Paralympic revolution

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From one to 29 medals: India’s Paralympic revolution

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India's transformation in para sports, showcasing the country's progress in terms of infrastructure, talent identification, and government support.

Industry: the sports industry, specifically para sports.

India's success at the Paris Paralympics has the potential to significantly impact the development of para sports in the country. It could inspire more young people with disabilities to pursue athletic careers and lead to increased investment in para sports infrastructure and training.

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Paralympics: How India went from one medal in 2012 to 29 in Paris

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India’s impressive show in Paris has delighted many but there is plenty more to do.

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'I executed what I prepared to do': How legendary Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee overcame self-doubt to win the gold

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'I executed what I prepared to do': How legendary Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee overcame self-doubt to win the gold

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Joyner-Kersee also addressed the difficulties of being an athlete in the public eye, including facing media criticism and dealing with racism. She highlighted the importance of teamwork and respect in her marriage to her coach, Bob Kersee, and discussed her post-competitive life, including her community work through the JJK Foundation in East St. Louis.

Resilience and Mental Toughness in Sports

Sports and Athletics- Athlete Development

Media and Public Relations- Athlete Representation

Community and Social Impact- Nonprofit and Community Development

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‘I executed what I prepared to do’: How legendary Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee overcame self-doubt to win the gold

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The retired athlete and hall-of-famer opened up to the BBC’s Katty Kay about the challenges she faced on the road to the Olympics, and the winning mindset that saw her through them.

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invitation for ideas to design the signature film for the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala to enhance its visual and cultural appeal.

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invitation for ideas to design the signature film for the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala to enhance its visual and cultural appeal.

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1. Film

2. Design

3. Arts

4. Events

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Ideas invited for signature film, design for 29th International Film Festival of Kerala

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Submit ideas for 30-second signature film & festival design for 29th IFFK by October 3 to Kerala State Chalachitra Academy.

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Research shows our bodies go through rapid changes in our 40s and our 60s

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Research shows our bodies go through rapid changes in our 40s and our 60s

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the importance of understanding the biological changes associated with aging and the potential implications for health and well-being. It highlights the need for further research to explore the specific consequences of these changes and develop targeted interventions.

Industry: health, aging, and medical research.

The findings of the study may have implications for public health, healthcare, and lifestyle choices. It could lead to the development of new interventions to address the health challenges associated with aging and promote healthy aging.

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Why does everything hurt? Research shows that our bodies go through rapid changes at these ages

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These metabolic shifts may be causing significant differences in cardiovascular health and immune function.

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Iraq Criminalizes Same-Sex Relationships, Faces International Backlash

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Iraq Criminalizes Same-Sex Relationships, Faces International Backlash

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Iraq has passed a law that criminalizes same-sex relationships, with sentences of up to 15 years in prison, further suppressing LGBTQ+ rights in the region. Human rights organizations have condemned the move.
Keywords: Iraq, LGBTQ+ rights, same-sex relationships, human rights violations, Middle East.
This law marks a significant regression in human rights for Iraq and may isolate the country further on the international stage, as more nations move toward inclusive policies.

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Iraq criminalises same-sex relationships with maximum 15 years in prison

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The bill had initially included the death penalty for same-sex acts but was amended before being passed after strong opposition from the United States and European nations.

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Facing slowdown, Indian IT companies are undergoing a shift: Here’s what’s changing

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Facing slowdown, Indian IT companies are undergoing a shift: Here’s what’s changing

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Indian IT companies are experiencing a slowdown in growth due to factors such as global economic uncertainty and increased competition.

To navigate this challenging environment, these companies are undergoing significant changes, including focusing on emerging technologies, cost optimization, and talent retention.

Industries Affected:

Information Technology

Global economy

IT services

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Facing slowdown, Indian IT companies are undergoing a shift: Here’s what’s changing - Times of India

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TECH NEWS : Indian IT service providers like TCS, HCLTech, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra have restructured their businesses and leadership teams in response to a slowd

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Apple has launched the Watch Series 10 featuring an expansive display and a thinner design to offer enhanced functionality and a sleeker appearance.

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Apple has launched the Watch Series 10 featuring an expansive display and a thinner design to offer enhanced functionality and a sleeker appearance.

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1. Technology

2. Consumer Electronics

3. Wearables

4. Design

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Apple introduced the Watch Series 10 at its "It's Glowtime" event on September 9, alongside the iPhone 16 series. The new Apple Watch line features larger displays, a slimmer profile, and support for more health features such as Sleep Apnea detection. Moreover, the Watch is offered in titanium casing, instead of stainless steel. Additionally, Apple announced that the Apple Watch Ultra 2 will now be available in a Black Titanium finish, along with a new Titanium Milanese Loop band.

Both the Apple Watch Series 10 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in Black Titanium are available for pre-order in India, with general availability starting September 20.

Apple Watch Series 10: India pricing

42mm (Aluminium): Rs 46,900

46mm (Aluminium): Rs 49,900

42mm (Titanium): Rs 79,900

46mm (Titanium): Rs 84,900

Apple Watch Ultra (Black Titanium): India pricing

The new Apple Watch Ultra with Titanium Milanese Loop is priced at Rs 104,900

Apple Watch Series 10: What's new

The Apple Watch Series 10 comes with larger 42mm and 46mm options, featuring a wide-angle OLED display with a wider aspect ratio than its predecessor. According to Apple, the display is up to 40 per cent brighter. The new chassis design is 9.7mm thick, making it 10 per cent thinner than the Apple Watch Series 9. Apple has also introduced a new Polished Titanium finish, replacing the stainless steel option.

The Apple Watch Series 10 is powered by the new S10 SiP (System in Package), which features a four-core Neural Engine (Neural Processing Unit). Apple said that this Neural Engine enhances the performance of several machine learning-based features, including Siri, the Double Tap feature, activity tracking, and car crash detection. Utilising the new Neural Engine, Apple has introduced a new "Voice Isolation" feature to reduce background noise during calls made from the Apple Watch. The watch now also supports audio playback through its built-in speakers.

In terms of health-related features, Apple has added Sleep Apnea detection to the Apple Watch Series 10. This feature, coming later this year, will track key metrics such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and wrist temperature overnight to detect symptoms of Sleep Apnea.

The Apple Watch Series 10 also includes new built-in sensors, such as a Depth Gauge and a water temperature sensor, enabling new metrics for aquatic activities.

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Apple launches Watch Series 10 with expansive display, thin design: Details

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Alongside, Apple introduced Apple Watch Ultra 2 in new Black Titanium finish. Now available for pre-order, both the Watch Series 10 and Ultra 2 in new finish will be available from September 20

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Adobe introduces Firefly AI-powered features in Illustrator and Photoshop: 

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Adobe introduces Firefly AI-powered features in Illustrator and Photoshop: 

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The news highlights Adobe’s introduction of Firefly AI-powered features in Illustrator and Photoshop. These new AI tools aim to enhance design and editing capabilities, streamline creative processes, and boost productivity for users of these software programs.

Industries Affected:

Graphic Design: Enhanced tools for designers, leading to more efficient and innovative design processes.

Photography: Improved editing capabilities for photographers through AI-driven features.

Software Development: Increased focus on AI integration in creative software, influencing future developments and competition.

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Adobe introduces Firefly AI-powered features in Illustrator and Photoshop

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Adobe said the new features will allow users to create and edit in innovative ways. Some new tools are available in the beta versions of Illustrator and Photoshop, while others are accessible widely

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India’s loneliness crisis explained: Why Gen Z is feeling more isolated than ever:

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India’s loneliness crisis explained: Why Gen Z is feeling more isolated than ever:

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The news addresses the rising loneliness crisis in India, especially among Gen Z, and explores the reasons behind their heightened sense of isolation. It emphasizes the need to understand and address the mental health challenges associated with this trend.

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India, a country with one of the world's youngest populations, is aware of the potential and influence of Generation Z or 'Zoomers'. Considered one of the most evolved generations, it is the first cohort to grow up in the digital age - where the world witnessed rapid technological advancements. People belonging to this age group are highly independent, tech-savvy, and socially aware individuals.

Gen Z-ers today have made a mark for themselves by becoming young achievers in several fields, not only at the national level but also at the global. Amid all the success stories and the excitement for the next big development in the tech world, however, several accounts are less talked about. Among them is what experts have termed the ' loneliness epidemic'. Described as the profound feeling of isolation, it has taken over the lives of many young Indians.

Recent surveys and statistics paint a grim picture of this crisis. According to The World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 10% of adolescents are lonely. Additionally, a 2021 global survey by Ipsos revealed that 4 in 10 urban Indians (43%) said they felt lonely and friendless at most times, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Despite a lot of Gen Z people having friends and socialising, they may still feel lonely. Loneliness may not be a simple lack of connections, but a lack of emotionally fulfilling connections," asserts Malika Chandra, psychotherapist, MC Psychotherapy.

Root causes of loneliness among Gen Z

A 2020 study published in suggests that in recent years, family and community dynamics have drastically changed. It states, "Earlier, India had a strong social structure at its place. Joint families, The International Journal of Indian Psychology strong bonding with neighbours and relatives, leisure time activities which strengthen the bond even stronger, grand and joint celebration of various festivals, visiting relatives on vacations and living there for a week or two, and many other practices were in place which created an environment where 'loneliness' could hardly be thought of."

As such, loneliness among the youth can be attributed to several factors. Dr Vijayshree Bajaj, psychologist and mental well-being coach at MedyMind, mentions that while social media platforms provide a sense of connection, they can also contribute to loneliness by fostering shallow relationships and unrealistic comparisons. "Gen Z often experiences FOMO (fear of missing out) and may feel inadequate when comparing their lives to idealised versions presented online. Technology has made constant connectivity possible, but it lacks the quality and depth of face-to-face interactions," she adds.

Additionally, Gen Z faces immense pressure to excel academically, leading to a lack of time for social interactions and leisure activities from a very young age. This constant focus on achievement can result in feelings of isolation and disconnect from peers. Traditional family structures are evolving, Dr Bajaj says, with many Gen Z individuals experiencing dual-income households, single-parent families, or living away from extended family members due to various circumstances. This can also lead to reduced emotional support and a sense of loneliness.

Further, despite growing awareness, particularly in India, she agrees, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health issues in India. Gen Z may hesitate to seek help for feelings of loneliness or anxiety, further exacerbating their sense of isolation.

Unlike just a few decades ago, the traditional community and societal structure have broken down, leading to a lack of meaningful connections. "With a focus on digital communication, Gen Z may have fewer face-to-face interactions and meaningful conversations. This, too, can lead to a sense of disconnectedness and loneliness despite being constantly connected online," Dr Bajaj discloses.

What do Gen Z Indians have to say about feeling lonely?

When we spoke to young individuals who have experienced loneliness, almost all of them blamed Covid lockdowns for making them feel particularly lonely or disconnected from others. "I started feeling really isolated, especially during COVID but even a bit before that. But when the lockdown hit, it was like the loneliness peaked," admits Aashna Gurav, brand management and marketing consultant.

Gurav adds that societal pressures, such as academic expectations or career goals, have impacted her sense of connection with others. "Our generation has faced immense pressure, whether it's excelling academically or chasing professional milestones. It's like a relentless race we can't escape." Seeing 19-year-old billionaires making headlines, she feels that the pressure is very high. "The older generation is leading us at workplaces. They're not as sensitised about things like work-life balance," she continues.

"While I attempt to distract myself with various activities, there are occasions when I find myself free and still plagued by these feelings. Overthinking makes it worse," reveals 23-year-old public relations professional Pratibha Sahu. To help get rid of feelings of isolation, she has begun prioritising face-to-face interactions and building physical networks. While social media platforms offer updates on others' lives, she admits, they often exacerbate feelings of loneliness by fostering a sense of inadequacy through constant comparison and perseverance of other life updates through their posts.

A content writer, 27, based in Delhi says that he believes that there's a decent level of awareness about mental health challenges, including loneliness, especially within this generation due to increased education and the influence of social media. But within the larger society, there is scope for improvement. "Despite the growing awareness, many still suffer in silence, hesitant to acknowledge their struggles due to fear of judgment or societal stigma. The support systems exist, but they remain underutilised and overshadowed by the prevailing culture of silence," he emphasises.

Impact of loneliness on mental health

Prolonged loneliness has been linked to a multitude of other psychological and surprisingly, physical illnesses as well. "This ranges from depression and anxiety to diabetes," Chandra discloses, adding that on another level, prolonged loneliness can also reduce positive resources within a person over time, making it harder to counter the negative effects of loneliness.

Celebrity life coach Prasidhi Aneja reflects on the struggles of Gen Z with asking for help due to their tendency to act like they have all the answers, which can compound their confusion. "Social isolation is as harmful as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and can lead to health problems or substance abuse," she warns.

Dr Rahul Chandhok, head psychiatrist and head consultant, Mental Health and Behavioural Science at Artemis Hospitals asserts that untreated loneliness during young adulthood can have significant long-term consequences on overall mental health and functioning as individuals transition into adulthood. It contributes to the development or exacerbation of chronic mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders. He continues, "These conditions can persist into adulthood and have a significant impact on daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being."

If loneliness is left unchecked for a long time, Aneja shares, it can lead to various emotional, behavioural, and health issues. One common problem she focuses on is insomnia, where people struggle to get enough sleep leading to symptoms of depression, such as extreme fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

What are some solutions to better support individuals struggling with loneliness?

When it comes to feelings of loneliness, it is important to understand and empathise with what Gen Z is going through. The rapid expansion of technology, socio-cultural changes, rise of social media, Covid lockdown, independence, and an increased pressure to excel in their careers as well as the workplace have all contributed to feelings of seclusion from loved ones as well as the society at large.

Aneja recommends that it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges faced by Gen Z and accepting these issues opens the door to trying various strategies and seeking therapeutic help. Chandra concurs, adding that including mental health education in school would be a great start. "There also must be education on the proper use of social media and its limitations to providing social connection. We must encourage more organic and authentic strategies of forming connections," she remarks.

Dr Bajaj asserts the crucial role that families can play. "Strong family dynamics and parental involvement provide essential emotional support for young individuals. Knowing they have a supportive family to turn to can alleviate feelings of loneliness and foster a sense of belonging."

Furthermore, Dr Chandhok urges employers to encourage a culture that values work-life balance by offering flexible work arrangements, promoting regular breaks, and discouraging long working hours. Giving employees' space for their personal lives will contribute to their overall well-being and reduce feelings of stress and burnout, fostering a sense of fulfillment in the long term.

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India's loneliness crisis explained: Why Gen Z is feeling more isolated than ever

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Feeling alone in the crowd? You're not alone! India's Gen Z struggles with loneliness despite being hyper-connected. Social media, pressure to excel, and broken family structures are blamed. Experts offer solutions like face-to-face interaction, family support, and mental health awareness.

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teens finally ditching vaping? New data show lowest levels in a decade

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teens finally ditching vaping? New data show lowest levels in a decade

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article emphasizes the positive trend of decreasing e-cigarette use among young people but also highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing nicotine addiction and the need for further interventions to prevent the use of alternative nicotine products.

Industry: public health, tobacco control, and youth development.

The continued use of nicotine pouches and the potential for other nicotine products to emerge as popular alternatives raises concerns about the long-term impact on public health.

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Are teens finally ditching vaping? New data show lowest levels in a decade

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Half a million fewer middle and high school students reported using e-cigarettes in 2024 compared to 2023, according to the latest report.

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India Ranks Third on Asia Power Index, Surpassing Japan

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India Ranks Third on Asia Power Index, Surpassing Japan

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India has surpassed Japan to secure the third position on the Asia Power Index, according to a report by an Australian think tank. This reflects India's growing influence in terms of military capability, economic strength, and diplomatic relationships in the region. As India's geopolitical role expands, this ranking signifies its increasing prominence on the global stage, particularly in the face of rising Chinese influence in Asia.

Keywords:

Asia Power Index, India, Japan, geopolitical influence, military, diplomacy, regional power.

India's rise on the Asia Power Index is a significant achievement that should be celebrated. However, this newfound influence comes with heavy responsibilities. As India ascends on the global stage, it must not only flex its military and economic muscles but also embrace leadership in areas like climate action, humanitarian aid, and technological innovation. With China’s aggressive stance in Asia, India has a crucial opportunity to position itself as a stabilizing and progressive force, but it must wield this power wisely to truly benefit the region.

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India surpasses Japan, ranks third on Asia Power Index of Australian think tank

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India rises to third in Asia Power Index, surpassing Japan, with strong post-COVID growth, while China’s power plateaus below US.

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Uganda’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Signed into Law Amid Global Criticism

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Uganda’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Signed into Law Amid Global Criticism

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Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has signed a draconian anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law, sparking global condemnation for violating fundamental human rights. The law imposes severe penalties for LGBTQ+ individuals, including life imprisonment.
Keywords: Uganda, anti-LGBTQ+ law, human rights, legal discrimination, global backlash.
This extreme anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is a stark reminder of the uphill battle for equality in many parts of the world, with dire implications for the safety and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda.

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The new law contains a provision that would punish "aggravated homosexuality" with the death penalty.

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Climate-Adaptive Blue-Green Roofs in Amsterdam

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Climate-Adaptive Blue-Green Roofs in Amsterdam

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Amsterdam is pioneering blue-green roofs as part of its climate adaptation strategy. These roofs absorb rainwater and support plant life, helping the city become more resilient to climate change.

The concept of sponge cities is a forward-thinking solution to urban climate challenges. It addresses both water management and environmental sustainability, making cities like Amsterdam models for future urban planning.

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Amsterdam is experimenting with roofs that not only grow plants but capture water for a building's residents. Welcome to the squeezable sponge city of tomorrow.

You might visit Amsterdam for its famous canals, and who could blame you, really. But the truly interesting waterways aren't under your feet-they're above your head.

Beautiful green roofs have popped up all over the world: specially selected plants growing on structures specially designed to manage the extra weight of biomass. Amsterdam has taken that one step further with blue-green roofs, specially designed to capture rainwater. One project, the Resilience Network of Smart Innovative Climate-Adapative Rooftops, or RESILIO, has covered over 100,000 square feet of roofs in Amsterdam, including 86,000 square feet on social housing complexes. Citywide, the blue-green roof coverage is even bigger and growing, currently estimated at over 500,000 square feet.

Metropolises are increasingly adopting the "sponge city" concept, deploying more green spaces that soak up downpours that are getting heavier as the world warms. That simultaneously reduces flooding and recharges the underlying aquifers, which can then be tapped into in times of need. Whereas cities used to be designed to wick rainwater away as quickly as possible, increasingly they're exploiting that resource instead of fighting it.

A major challenge with sponge cities, though, is that so much of an urban area is rooftops, which are obviously impervious by design. Green roofs might help soak up some rainwater to hydrate the plants up there, but blue-green roofs go a step further with additional infrastructure that gathers up the liquid, stores it, and dispenses it to the building's residents for watering plants and flushing toilets.

The system works in layers. At the surface, you've got your plants: some combination of mosses, shrubs, grasses, ferns, herbs, or sedum, an extremely hardy genus that's a staple of green roofs. (Though plants of course need sunlight to survive, up on a roof they're bombarded with potentially too much light. It can also get very hot and very windy up there.) The plants are rooted in soil, providing nutrients and support.

Below that stretches a filter layer, which keeps the soil from getting into the next layer, a lightweight crate system that stores the water. And finally, below that you've got additional layers to keep water and plant roots from infiltrating the actual roof. "You have, in fact, a flat rain barrel on top of your roof," says Kasper Spaan, policy developer for climate adaptation at Waternet, Amsterdam's public water management organization, which is participating in RESILIO.

The water levels in the blue-green roof are managed by a smart valve. If the weather forecast says a storm is coming, the system will release stored water from the roof ahead of time. That way, when a downpour comes, the roof refills, meaning there's less rainwater entering the gutters and sewers in the surrounding area. In other words, the roof becomes a sponge that the operator can wring out as needed. "In the 'squeezable' sponge city, you make the whole city malleable," says Spaan.

This makes the traditional system of stormwater management more flexible, but also more complicated. So the RESILIO project used software from Autodesk to model the impact of blue-green roofs and the risk of flooding in Amsterdam, also adjusting for climate change.

"You can take a look at historical flood patterns, and then you can do simulations that will help you understand: If I could take this much capacity out of the drainage network, when the storm comes, I'm going reduce flooding by 10, 15, 20 percent," says Amy Bunszel, executive vice president of architecture, engineering, and construction design solutions at Autodesk. "So our software allows them to do simulations and play with different trade-offs."

Beyond the sponge-city benefits, blue-green roofs can cool the top floor of a building, essentially "sweating" off the stored water. With the right kinds of indigenous plants, they can also boost biodiversity by catering to native pollinating insects. Going a step further, scientists are also experimenting with growing crops on rooftops under solar panels, known as rooftop agrivoltaics. Theoretically, pairing that with blue-green systems might actually improve the efficiency of the solar panels by cooling them with the evaporating water.

Not every building can go blue-green, though. The additional infrastructure isn't itself all that heavy, but the water it holds is. So it's relatively cheap and easy to build the system into new construction, accounting for the extra weight, but older buildings might need retrofits to accommodate that. In the longer term it can actually save a building money by reducing the amount of water you'd need to buy from a municipal system. Like any technology, its cost will fall as it's more widely deployed.

The overall idea is for places experiencing worsening droughts and increasingly extreme flooding to deploy not only sponge city concepts on the ground-like patches of dirt with drought-tolerant plants to absorb stormwater into aquifers-but on top of their buildings as well. "We think that the concept is applicable to many urban areas around the world," says Spaan. "The south of Europe-Italy and Spain-where there are really drought-stressed areas, there's new attention for rainwater catchment."

Cities might even incentivize blue-green roofs by providing tax breaks, essentially rewarding building owners for reducing their contribution of stormwater to overburdened sewer and water systems. American cities like Los Angeles and Pittsburgh have been rolling out something similar: Taxes on the amount of impermeable area on a property, like concrete, that incentivize landowners to develop gardens and other green spaces instead.

The city of tomorrow, then, isn't the concrete-smothered metropolis of science fiction, but an increasingly green and spongy landscape that can be squeezed in times of need. "Our philosophy in the end is not that on every roof, everything is possible," says Spaan, "but that on every roof, something is possible."

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Green Roofs Are Great. Blue-Green Roofs Are Even Better

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Amsterdam is experimenting with roofs that not only grow plants but capture water for a building's residents. Welcome to the squeezable sponge city of tomorrow.

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Tigers and crocs make mangrove preservation tough work

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Tigers and crocs make mangrove preservation tough work

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The news article discusses the use of drones to map mangrove forests, specifically the Sundarbans, in order to monitor their health and protect them from the effects of climate change and human activities. The concept and trend being used is the application of technology, particularly drones, for environmental monitoring and conservation. The parts of industry that will be affected by this include:

Environmental conservation

Agriculture and forestry

Infrastructure development

Disaster management

Tourism

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Mangroves: The challenge of preserving coastal forests

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To help preserve mangrove forests researchers have to take on demanding field work.

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A management consultant in Delhi shares their salary range, revealing earnings between ₹80 lakh to ₹1.2 crore per annum.

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A management consultant in Delhi shares their salary range, revealing earnings between ₹80 lakh to ₹1.2 crore per annum.

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The ‘crazy’ salary of a management consultant in India, revealed in viral video

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A management consultant from New Delhi, who studied at ISB, has revealed how much he earns.

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The journey that helped save Nigeria's art for the nation

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The journey that helped save Nigeria's art for the nation

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Holloway’s vision includes creating more dynamic, community-engaged exhibitions that reflect the true cultural significance of these artifacts, which are often regarded as sacred rather than mere historical items. He believes that many existing museums in Nigeria lack viability because they fail to connect with the public's interests and cultural identity.

The movement towards decolonizing museums and creating culturally relevant spaces that reflect local values and histories .

Affected Industries

Cultural Heritage and Museums: Museum Management

Tourism: Cultural Tourism

Education: Cultural Education

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Nigerian National Museum: The journey that helped save art for the nation

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In the 1960s objects were gathered for the national museum, the question now is what to do with them.

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A tribal girl, formerly a daily wage worker, achieves a remarkable 73.8 score in the JEE and gains admission to a prestigious university, highlighting her resilience and determination.

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A tribal girl, formerly a daily wage worker, achieves a remarkable 73.8 score in the JEE and gains admission to a prestigious university, highlighting her resilience and determination.

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Tribal girl who worked as a daily wage worker scores 73.8% in JEE, gets admission at NIT, Trichy

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Rohini from Tamil Nadu worked as a daily wager while simultaneously preparing for the JEE. Her impressive score has amazed many on the internet.

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A Porsche-backed startup is building a massive battery recycling plant to boost Europe's EV industry

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A Porsche-backed startup is building a massive battery recycling plant to boost Europe's EV industry

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a startup backed by Porsche and Bosch. The facility aims to recycle end-of-life batteries from electric vehicles, contributing to the sustainable development of the European battery industry. Cylib's investment in this project reflects the growing importance of battery recycling in the transition to electric vehicles.

Industry: The news is related to automotive, technology, and environmental sustainability.

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A Porsche-backed startup is building a massive battery recycling plant to boost Europe’s EV industry

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The $200 million facility, which is expected to cover 236,000 square feet, will produce recycled batteries for the electric vehicle industry in Europe.

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Singaporean designers making a global impact with their projects, showcasing their influence in international design.

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Singaporean designers making a global impact with their projects, showcasing their influence in international design.

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1. Interior Design

2. Architecture

3. Fashion Design

4. Construction

5. Global Design and Consultancy

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Singapore designers make their mark with projects around the world

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Singaporeans are on the global stage with projects in architecture and urban planning. Read more at straitstimes.com.

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From one to 29 medals: India’s Paralympic revolution

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From one to 29 medals: India’s Paralympic revolution

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India's transformation in para sports, showcasing the country's progress in terms of infrastructure, talent identification, and government support.

Industry: the sports industry, specifically para sports.

India's success at the Paris Paralympics has the potential to significantly impact the development of para sports in the country. It could inspire more young people with disabilities to pursue athletic careers and lead to increased investment in para sports infrastructure and training.

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Paralympics: How India went from one medal in 2012 to 29 in Paris

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India’s impressive show in Paris has delighted many but there is plenty more to do.

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The journey that helped save Nigeria's art for the nation

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The journey that helped save Nigeria's art for the nation

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Holloway’s vision includes creating more dynamic, community-engaged exhibitions that reflect the true cultural significance of these artifacts, which are often regarded as sacred rather than mere historical items. He believes that many existing museums in Nigeria lack viability because they fail to connect with the public's interests and cultural identity.

The movement towards decolonizing museums and creating culturally relevant spaces that reflect local values and histories .

Affected Industries

Cultural Heritage and Museums: Museum Management

Tourism: Cultural Tourism

Education: Cultural Education

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Nigerian National Museum: The journey that helped save art for the nation

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In the 1960s objects were gathered for the national museum, the question now is what to do with them.

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Greece has become the first Christian Orthodox-majority country to legalize same-sex marriage, following a parliamentary vote of 176-76. The new law also allows same-sex couples to adopt children. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed the decision as a step toward greater equality, though it has sparked significant opposition from the Orthodox Church, leading to protests in Athens. Industries that are getting affected

Legal and Human Rights: Legal Services, Human Rights Organizations

Tourism: LGBTQ+ Tourism, Economic Impact

Media and Publishing: News Coverage, Content Production

Political and Social Policy: Regional Influence, Social Policy Changes

Religious and Social Organizations: Religious Debates, Support Services

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The legislation has been praised by LGBTQ organisations, but strongly opposed by the Orthodox Church

Greece has become the first Christian Orthodox-majority country to legalise same-sex marriage.

Same-sex couples will now also be legally allowed to adopt children after Thursday's vote.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the new law would "boldly abolish a serious inequality".

But the legislation has divided the country, with fierce resistance being led by the powerful Greek Orthodox Church.

The bill needed a simple majority to pass through the 300-member parliament.

Mr Mitsotakis championed the bill but required the support of opposition parties to get it over the line, with dozens of MPs from his centre-right governing party opposed.

"People who have been invisible will finally be made visible around us, and with them, many children will finally find their rightful place," the prime minister told parliament during a debate ahead of the vote.

"The reform makes the lives of several of our fellow citizens better, without taking away anything from the lives of the many."

The vote has been hailed as historic by LGBTQ organisations in Greece.

Fifteen of the European Union's 27 members have already legalised same-sex marriage. It is permitted in 35 countries worldwide.

Greece has until now lagged behind some of its European neighbours, largely because of opposition from the Church.

It is the first country in southeast Europe to have marriage equality.

Supporters of the Church held rallies at Syntagma Square in Athens on Thursday. Many displayed banners, held crosses, read prayers and sang passages from the Bible.

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Parliament's vote for equality in marriage and adoption was opposed by the Greek Orthodox Church.

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Volunteers dying as Russia’s war dead tops 70,000

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Volunteers dying as Russia’s war dead tops 70,000

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Despite the increasing death toll, the Russian government appears reluctant to enforce a new wave of mobilization. Instead, it is ramping up recruitment of volunteers, including foreign nationals, with promises of better pay and simplified citizenship processes for those who survive. Training for new recruits has been criticized as inadequate, with many being thrown into combat with minimal preparation and poor equipment.

The mobilization of volunteer soldiers and the increasing toll of war casualties among civilians in military roles.

Defense and Military- Recruitment and Training

Healthcare- Trauma and Medical Care

Economics- Labor Markets in Conflict Zones

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Russia’s war dead tops 70,000 as volunteers face ‘meat grinder’

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More than 70,000 Russian soldiers have died in Ukraine - volunteers now make up the highest number of deaths.

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Lebanon Blasts Linked to Walkie-Talkie Firm as Israel Declares New War Phase

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Lebanon Blasts Linked to Walkie-Talkie Firm as Israel Declares New War Phase

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A walkie-talkie firm is being investigated for its potential link to the recent blasts in Lebanon, which are believed to be part of a larger conflict involving Israel. This comes as Israel declares a new phase of its military actions.

Lebanon blasts, Israel war, walkie-talkie firm, conflict, investigation.

The investigation highlights the surprising role of private companies in military conflicts. As Israel escalates its military operations, the region continues to be a flashpoint for complex geopolitical issues.

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Raf Sanchez, Mithil Aggarwal, Yuliya Talmazan and Doha Madani

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Israeli military strikes Hezbollah as Nasrallah responds to wave of device blasts in Lebanon

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The attack on southern Lebanon on Thursday involved airstrikes and artillery, an Israeli official told NBC News, after two days of explosions that killed at least 37 people, including two children, and injured thousands more.

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Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first female president

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Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first female president

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espite the celebratory atmosphere, the election was marred by violence, with over 20 local candidates reportedly killed. Sheinbaum aims to address the root causes of violence and crime, particularly by investing in welfare programs to deter youth recruitment into criminal groups. She also plans to foster a respectful relationship with the United States while advocating for Mexicans living there.

Trending Concept

The trend of increasing female leadership and representation in politics, alongside the ongoing issues of violence and crime in electoral contexts.

Industries

Political and Governance: Women's Representation

Public Safety and Security: Crime Prevention

Social Services and Welfare: Welfare Programs

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Claudia Sheinbaum celebrates 'historic' victory
Claudia Sheinbaum has been elected as Mexico's first female president, in a historic landslide win.
Mexico's official electoral authority said preliminary results showed the 61-year-old former mayor of Mexico City winning between 58% and 60% of the vote in Sunday's election.

That gives her a lead of about 30 percentage points over her main rival, businesswoman Xóchitl Gálvez.

Ms Sheinbaum will replace her mentor, outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, on 1 October.

The election of a woman to the highest office was an emotional moment for some

Ms Sheinbaum, a former energy scientist, has promised continuity, saying that she will continue to build on the "advances" made by Mr López Obrador, further building on the welfare programmes which have made the outgoing president very popular.

But in her victory speech she also highlighted what has set this Mexican election apart from previous ones. She told cheering voters: "For the first time in the 200 years of the [Mexican] Republic, I will become the first woman president of Mexico."

She said it was an achievement not just for her but for all women.

"I've said it from the start, this is not just about me getting [to the top office], it's about all of us getting here."

She added: "I won't fail you."

Ms Sheinbaum also thanked her rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, who has conceded victory.

Prior to running for president, Ms Sheinbaum was mayor of Mexico City, one of the most influential political positions in the country and one that is seen as paving the way for the presidency.

Ms Sheinbaum, whose Jewish maternal grandparents immigrated to Mexico from Bulgaria fleeing the Nazis, had an illustrious career as a scientist before delving into politics. Her paternal grandparents hailed from Lithuania.

Both of her parents were scientists and Ms Sheinbaum studied physics before going on to receive a doctorate in energy engineering.

She spent years at a renowned research lab in California studying Mexican energy consumption patterns and became an expert on climate change.

That experience and her student activism eventually earned her the position of secretary of the environment for Mexico City at the time when Andrés Manuel López Obrador was mayor of the capital.

In 2018 she became the first female mayor of Mexico City, a post she held until 2023, when she stepped down to run for president.

Supporters of Claudia Sheinbaum gathered at the Zócalo to celebrate

The election, which pitted Ms Sheinbaum against Ms Gálvez, has been described as a sea change for women in Mexico.

Edelmira Montiel, 87, said that she was grateful to be alive to see a woman elected to the top office.

"Before, we couldn't even vote, and when you could, it was to vote for the person your husband told you to vote for. Thank God that has changed and I get to live it," she told Reuters news agency, referring to the fact that women were only allowed to vote in national elections in 1953.

While the fact that the two front-runners were women was widely celebrated, the campaign was marred by violent attacks.

As well as a new president, voters were also electing all members of Mexico's Congress and governors in eight states, the head of Mexico City's government, and thousands of local officials.

And it was local candidates in particular who were targeted in the run-up to the vote.

The government says more than 20 were killed across Mexico, although other surveys put the total at 37.

Ms Gálvez harshly criticised the government and her rival in the presidential race for the violence which blights large parts of Mexico.

She promised to be "the bravest president, a president who does confront crime" if elected, but failed to provide many details about how she would tackle the powerful criminal cartels which are behind much of the violence.

After Ms Sheinbaum's lead became unassailable, Ms Gálvez called her.

"I told her I saw a Mexico with a lot of pain and violence. I wished that she could solve the severe problems our people have," Ms Gálvez said of the call.

How to tackle Mexico's violent cartels is going to be one of the many challenges facing Ms Sheinbaum when she takes up office.

She has said that it is important to tackle what she says are the roots of the violence and has promised to invest in welfare programmes to prevent poor young Mexicans from being recruited by criminal groups.

On relations with Mexico's northern neighbour, the United States, which at times have been testy under her predecessor in office, she said she would ensure there would be "a relationship of friendship, mutual respect and equality".

But in a reference to the many Mexicans living and working in the US, she promised to "always defend the Mexicans who are on the other side of the border".

Relations between the US and Mexico suffered under Mr López Obrador, who has been in power since 2018.

The outspoken leader was barred from running for a second term under Mexico's constitution, which limits presidents to a single six-year-term.

He threw his weight behind Ms Sheinbaum instead.

Having the backing of the popular president, who has an approval rate of close to 60%, gave Ms Sheinbaum's campaign a huge boost.

Many of those voting for her said they backed her and Mr López Obrador's party programme to alleviate poverty and wanted to see it continued.
With additional reporting by BBC Monitoring in Miami.

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Mexico elects Sheinbaum as first woman president

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Claudia Sheinbaum has beaten her rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, by a landslide to become Mexico's next leader.

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Families in Bangladesh Seek Justice for Slain Students

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Families in Bangladesh Seek Justice for Slain Students

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Families of students killed in protests in Bangladesh are calling for accountability from the government. This article discusses the growing unrest and demands for justice amid a climate of political tension.

The government’s response to these calls for justice will determine whether the current political climate in Bangladesh shifts toward greater transparency or deeper unrest. This is a critical moment for the nation’s leadership.

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‘She’s the one who shattered us’: families of slain Bangladesh students wantk to hold Sheikh Hasina to account

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As ex-prime minister has fled, relatives of protesters among 1,000 killed in crackdown pin hopes on international courts

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The scenic road that saved Europe's banned language

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The scenic road that saved Europe's banned language

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This movement not only preserved the Lithuanian language but also strengthened national identity and cultural resistance against Russian oppression. Today, the road is celebrated for its historical context and is a popular tourist destination, featuring castles, cultural events, and monuments like the Wall of the Book Smugglers.

Cultural Resilience and National Identity through Literature

Affected Industries

Tourism;: Cultural Tourism

Publishing and Literature: Language Preservation

Education and Historical Research; Cultural Studies

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Panemunė: The scenic road that saved Europe’s banned language

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For nearly 40 years, daring smugglers transported nearly 40,000 Lithuanian-language books into the nation each year when it was forbidden under Russian rule.

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Canadian Man Discovers Massive Ancient Meteor Crater on Google Maps While Planning Camping Trip

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Canadian Man Discovers Massive Ancient Meteor Crater on Google Maps While Planning Camping Trip

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While exploring the Quebec Côte-Nord region on Google Maps for a camping trip, Canadian man Joel Lapointe spotted a mysterious, unnaturally curved pit, 15 kilometers in diameter, surrounded by a ring of mountains. He shared his discovery with geophysicist Pierre Rochette, who suggested that the site is likely a crater formed by an ancient meteor impact. Testing revealed the presence of zircon, a mineral indicating past meteor impacts, but further analysis is required to confirm the findings. If verified, this could mark a significant discovery in the study of Earth's ancient meteor impacts.

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Eerie ‘mysterious hole’ gets spotted on Earth through Google Maps, its secret is...

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In a shocking discovery, a Canadian man spotted a mysterious hole on the surface of the Earth while looking through Google Maps. Upon investigation of the never-known pit, it was found to be a massive crater created by an ancient meteor. Here’s how the stunning discovery of the crater was made Canadian man Joel Lapointe was checking the locations close to Quebec’s Côte-Nord region on Google Maps as he was planning to go on a camping trip.

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Notre-Dame restoration reveals Renaissance poet's coffin

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Notre-Dame restoration reveals Renaissance poet's coffin

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The tomb of renowned French poet Joachim du Bellay has been discovered during restoration work at Notre-Dame Cathedral following the 2019 fire. Scientists believe the lead coffin found beneath the transept contains du Bellay’s remains, who died in 1560 at about 37 years old. Du Bellay was a significant figure in the La Pleiade literary movement, which promoted French poetry over Latin. The analysis of the skeleton suggests he suffered from bone tuberculosis and experienced deafness and headaches in later life. There is speculation about why his body was found in its current location rather than its recorded side-chapel, possibly linked to his posthumous fame. Findings will be showcased in an exhibition before the cathedral reopens.

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The lead coffin thought to contain the remains of Joachim du Bellay

The tomb of one of France's best-loved early poets has been discovered during post-fire restoration work in Notre-Dame cathedral.

Scientists say they are nearly certain a lead coffin found beneath the transept is that of Joachim du Bellay, who died in Paris in 1560 at the age of about 37.

The 2019 fire, which destroyed Notre-Dame's roof and spire, has provided a rare opportunity for archaeologists. Their findings will be on display at an exhibition from November, shortly before the cathedral's re-opening.

Born near Angers in western France around 1522, du Bellay was - with Pierre de Ronsard - founder of a circle of poets known as La Pleiade which championed French, rather than Latin, as a language of poetry.

It was known from records that du Bellay was buried in Notre-Dame, where he had served as a minor clerical official. But his tomb has never been found.

Analysis of the skeleton inside the lead coffin revealed it to be of a man aged about 35, who suffered from bone tuberculosis in his neck and head, and spent a lot of time in the saddle.

Du Bellay suffered in later years from deafness and debilitating headaches - symptoms consistent with the researchers' findings. It is also known he was a regular rider, having notably made the journey from Paris to Rome on horse.

One remaining question is why the body was where it was, and not in the side-chapel where it was recorded as being interred.

One theory is that it was moved to the new site after his name became famous with publication of his collected works some years after he died.

Du Bellay is still taught in French schools, and a few of his poems are widely-known.

The most famous Heureux qui comme Ulysse (Happy he who like Ulysses) is about nostalgia for one's childhood home.

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Notre-Dame restoration reveals Renaissance poet's coffin

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The tomb of one of France's best-loved early poets has been discovered during restoration work in Notre-Dame.

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Taiwan Steps Up in LGBTQ+ Rights Amid Rising Tensions with China

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Taiwan Steps Up in LGBTQ+ Rights Amid Rising Tensions with China

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Taiwan remains a leader in LGBTQ+ rights in Asia, as it continues to uphold same-sex marriage legislation despite rising political tensions with China, where LGBTQ+ rights remain repressed.
Keywords: Taiwan, China, LGBTQ+ rights, same-sex marriage, political tension.
Taiwan's commitment to human rights, even under external pressures from China, highlights the stark contrast between the two countries’ political and social policies. The international community’s support for Taiwan is critical in maintaining this progress.

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PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news

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Taiwan has announced that it will recognise same-sex marriages between Taiwanese and Chinese nationals, giving couples the right to register their unions under the same regulations as heterosexuals.

The couples will be able to register their marriages in Taiwan after tying the knot outside the island nation or China, after providing relevant documentation and passing an interview, a press release published on the Ministry of the Interior website said.

"The Ministry of the Interior pointed out that cross-strait couples marrying each other in a third place will follow the practice of heterosexual marriages in terms of document verification, interview mechanisms and marriage procedures," the statement read.

"For people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait who are not married in a third place (regardless of heterosexual or same-sex marriages), they should still follow the Regulations on the Relationship between the People of Taiwan and the Mainland and the relevant provisions of the current practice."

The move is expected to benefit hundreds of couples in Taiwan.

In a joint statement, LGBTQ+ groups in Taiwan said they welcomed the change, describing it as a "a long-awaited, difficult but navigable path home" but noted that, because same-sex couples must get married in a third place, they "still have higher economic and class barriers to marriage".

LGBTQ+ legislator Huang Jie, a member of the left-leaning Democratic Progressive Party and first out queer person to be elected, welcomed the announcement and said she had received many requests for help from cross-strait same-sex couples since equal marriage was legalised.

Taiwan legalised same-sex marriage in 2019, becoming the first Asian nation to do so, in a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ rights in the region. The move followed the country's top court ruling that defining marriage as being between only a man and a woman was unconstitutional.

Last year, the nation of 23 million people - which China claims as its own and which it seeks to bring under its control - granted full adoption rights to same-sex couples.

Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.

Please login or register to comment on this story.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Taiwan to recognise same-sex marriages between Chinese and Taiwanese nationals

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Taiwan will recognise same-sex marriages between Taiwanese-Chinese nationals, giving couples the right to register their unions.

# data[].attributes.headline
The journey that helped save Nigeria's art for the nation

# data[].attributes.subject
The journey that helped save Nigeria's art for the nation

# data[].attributes.body
Holloway’s vision includes creating more dynamic, community-engaged exhibitions that reflect the true cultural significance of these artifacts, which are often regarded as sacred rather than mere historical items. He believes that many existing museums in Nigeria lack viability because they fail to connect with the public's interests and cultural identity.

The movement towards decolonizing museums and creating culturally relevant spaces that reflect local values and histories .

Affected Industries

Cultural Heritage and Museums: Museum Management

Tourism: Cultural Tourism

Education: Cultural Education

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Nigerian National Museum: The journey that helped save art for the nation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In the 1960s objects were gathered for the national museum, the question now is what to do with them.

# data[].attributes.headline
Families in Bangladesh Seek Justice for Slain Students

# data[].attributes.subject
Families in Bangladesh Seek Justice for Slain Students

# data[].attributes.body
Families of students killed in protests in Bangladesh are calling for accountability from the government. This article discusses the growing unrest and demands for justice amid a climate of political tension.

The government’s response to these calls for justice will determine whether the current political climate in Bangladesh shifts toward greater transparency or deeper unrest. This is a critical moment for the nation’s leadership.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
‘She’s the one who shattered us’: families of slain Bangladesh students wantk to hold Sheikh Hasina to account

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
As ex-prime minister has fled, relatives of protesters among 1,000 killed in crackdown pin hopes on international courts

# data[].attributes.headline
Giant Pandas Are Returning to San Diego, China Announces

# data[].attributes.subject
Giant Pandas Are Returning to San Diego, China Announces

# data[].attributes.body
The news is the continuation of "panda diplomacy," a diplomatic practice where China sends giant pandas to foreign countries as a symbol of goodwill and cooperation. Despite political and economic tensions, the U.S. and China maintain a collaborative relationship in the realm of wildlife conservation through this tradition.

Impact on Industries:

1. Zoo and Conservation Industry:

2. Biodiversity Research

3. U.S.-China Relations

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Giant Pandas Are Returning to San Diego, China Announces

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
“Panda diplomacy” has represented an area of cooperation between the United States and China despite tension over weighty issues of trade and national security.

# data[].attributes.headline
Russia Warns France Over Telegram Founder’s Detention

# data[].attributes.subject
Russia Warns France Over Telegram Founder’s Detention

# data[].attributes.body
Russia has issued a stern warning to France after the detention of Telegram founder Pavel Durov. This incident adds to the growing strain between Russia and Western countries.

Keywords: Russia, France, Pavel Durov, Telegram, diplomatic tensions.

The detention of a high-profile tech founder like Durov could further inflame tensions between Russia and the West, given Telegram’s controversial role in privacy and communication. It may signal larger geopolitical frictions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Russia warns France over Telegram founder’s detainment, suggests it may be politically motivated

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The detainment of Telegram founder Pavel Durov could be considered political if France fails to provide serious evidence of his guilt, the Kremlin said Tuesday.

# data[].attributes.headline
The scenic road that saved Europe's banned language

# data[].attributes.subject
The scenic road that saved Europe's banned language

# data[].attributes.body
This movement not only preserved the Lithuanian language but also strengthened national identity and cultural resistance against Russian oppression. Today, the road is celebrated for its historical context and is a popular tourist destination, featuring castles, cultural events, and monuments like the Wall of the Book Smugglers.

Cultural Resilience and National Identity through Literature

Affected Industries

Tourism;: Cultural Tourism

Publishing and Literature: Language Preservation

Education and Historical Research; Cultural Studies

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Panemunė: The scenic road that saved Europe’s banned language

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
For nearly 40 years, daring smugglers transported nearly 40,000 Lithuanian-language books into the nation each year when it was forbidden under Russian rule.

# data[].attributes.headline
India sets record as 642 million vote despite deadly heatwave

# data[].attributes.subject
India sets record as 642 million vote despite deadly heatwave

# data[].attributes.body
A record 642 million voters participated in India's general election, which began on April 19 and concluded recently despite extreme heat, with temperatures reaching nearly 50°C. The counting operation is now underway, and exit polls suggest that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to secure a significant majority, paving the way for Modi’s historic third term. Tragically, over 200 individuals, including election workers, have died due to the heatwave, with at least 33 fatalities reported from polling stations on the last voting day.

The intersection of electoral participation and extreme weather conditions underscores the challenges posed by climate change on democratic processes.

Affected Industries

Political and Governance: Election Management

Public Health: Healthcare Services

Environmental Policy: Climate Resilience Initiatives

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
India sets record as 642 million vote despite deadly heatwave

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
‘This is a historic moment’ says election commissioner

# data[].attributes.headline
Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first female president

# data[].attributes.subject
Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first female president

# data[].attributes.body
espite the celebratory atmosphere, the election was marred by violence, with over 20 local candidates reportedly killed. Sheinbaum aims to address the root causes of violence and crime, particularly by investing in welfare programs to deter youth recruitment into criminal groups. She also plans to foster a respectful relationship with the United States while advocating for Mexicans living there.

Trending Concept

The trend of increasing female leadership and representation in politics, alongside the ongoing issues of violence and crime in electoral contexts.

Industries

Political and Governance: Women's Representation

Public Safety and Security: Crime Prevention

Social Services and Welfare: Welfare Programs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Claudia Sheinbaum celebrates 'historic' victory
Claudia Sheinbaum has been elected as Mexico's first female president, in a historic landslide win.
Mexico's official electoral authority said preliminary results showed the 61-year-old former mayor of Mexico City winning between 58% and 60% of the vote in Sunday's election.

That gives her a lead of about 30 percentage points over her main rival, businesswoman Xóchitl Gálvez.

Ms Sheinbaum will replace her mentor, outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, on 1 October.

The election of a woman to the highest office was an emotional moment for some

Ms Sheinbaum, a former energy scientist, has promised continuity, saying that she will continue to build on the "advances" made by Mr López Obrador, further building on the welfare programmes which have made the outgoing president very popular.

But in her victory speech she also highlighted what has set this Mexican election apart from previous ones. She told cheering voters: "For the first time in the 200 years of the [Mexican] Republic, I will become the first woman president of Mexico."

She said it was an achievement not just for her but for all women.

"I've said it from the start, this is not just about me getting [to the top office], it's about all of us getting here."

She added: "I won't fail you."

Ms Sheinbaum also thanked her rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, who has conceded victory.

Prior to running for president, Ms Sheinbaum was mayor of Mexico City, one of the most influential political positions in the country and one that is seen as paving the way for the presidency.

Ms Sheinbaum, whose Jewish maternal grandparents immigrated to Mexico from Bulgaria fleeing the Nazis, had an illustrious career as a scientist before delving into politics. Her paternal grandparents hailed from Lithuania.

Both of her parents were scientists and Ms Sheinbaum studied physics before going on to receive a doctorate in energy engineering.

She spent years at a renowned research lab in California studying Mexican energy consumption patterns and became an expert on climate change.

That experience and her student activism eventually earned her the position of secretary of the environment for Mexico City at the time when Andrés Manuel López Obrador was mayor of the capital.

In 2018 she became the first female mayor of Mexico City, a post she held until 2023, when she stepped down to run for president.

Supporters of Claudia Sheinbaum gathered at the Zócalo to celebrate

The election, which pitted Ms Sheinbaum against Ms Gálvez, has been described as a sea change for women in Mexico.

Edelmira Montiel, 87, said that she was grateful to be alive to see a woman elected to the top office.

"Before, we couldn't even vote, and when you could, it was to vote for the person your husband told you to vote for. Thank God that has changed and I get to live it," she told Reuters news agency, referring to the fact that women were only allowed to vote in national elections in 1953.

While the fact that the two front-runners were women was widely celebrated, the campaign was marred by violent attacks.

As well as a new president, voters were also electing all members of Mexico's Congress and governors in eight states, the head of Mexico City's government, and thousands of local officials.

And it was local candidates in particular who were targeted in the run-up to the vote.

The government says more than 20 were killed across Mexico, although other surveys put the total at 37.

Ms Gálvez harshly criticised the government and her rival in the presidential race for the violence which blights large parts of Mexico.

She promised to be "the bravest president, a president who does confront crime" if elected, but failed to provide many details about how she would tackle the powerful criminal cartels which are behind much of the violence.

After Ms Sheinbaum's lead became unassailable, Ms Gálvez called her.

"I told her I saw a Mexico with a lot of pain and violence. I wished that she could solve the severe problems our people have," Ms Gálvez said of the call.

How to tackle Mexico's violent cartels is going to be one of the many challenges facing Ms Sheinbaum when she takes up office.

She has said that it is important to tackle what she says are the roots of the violence and has promised to invest in welfare programmes to prevent poor young Mexicans from being recruited by criminal groups.

On relations with Mexico's northern neighbour, the United States, which at times have been testy under her predecessor in office, she said she would ensure there would be "a relationship of friendship, mutual respect and equality".

But in a reference to the many Mexicans living and working in the US, she promised to "always defend the Mexicans who are on the other side of the border".

Relations between the US and Mexico suffered under Mr López Obrador, who has been in power since 2018.

The outspoken leader was barred from running for a second term under Mexico's constitution, which limits presidents to a single six-year-term.

He threw his weight behind Ms Sheinbaum instead.

Having the backing of the popular president, who has an approval rate of close to 60%, gave Ms Sheinbaum's campaign a huge boost.

Many of those voting for her said they backed her and Mr López Obrador's party programme to alleviate poverty and wanted to see it continued.
With additional reporting by BBC Monitoring in Miami.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mexico elects Sheinbaum as first woman president

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Claudia Sheinbaum has beaten her rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, by a landslide to become Mexico's next leader.

# data[].attributes.headline
EU warns Apple to open up iOS to rivals or face fines: The EU is enforcing the Digital Markets Act to prevent Apple from monopolizing its ecosystem, aiming to increase competition and interoperability with third-party developers and devices​

# data[].attributes.subject
EU warns Apple to open up iOS to rivals or face fines: The EU is enforcing the Digital Markets Act to prevent Apple from monopolizing its ecosystem, aiming to increase competition and interoperability with third-party developers and devices​

# data[].attributes.body
The EU has warned Apple to open up its iOS and iPadOS systems to third-party developers and devices under the Digital Markets Act, aiming to reduce Apple's control over its platform. If Apple fails to comply within six months, it could face fines of up to 10% of its global revenue​(

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
EU warns Apple to open up iOS to rivals or face fines - ET LegalWorld

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The European Union has instructed Apple to open its iPhone and iPad operating systems to rival technologies within six months or risk substantial fines under new antitrust regulations. This directive aims to ensure fair digital markets by enabling non-Apple devices to connect with iPhones and receive notifications, promoting interoperability.

# data[].attributes.headline
 Japan's response to recent natural disasters and the measures being taken for recovery and relief efforts.

# data[].attributes.subject
 Japan's response to recent natural disasters and the measures being taken for recovery and relief efforts.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Construction

2. Insurance

3. Energy

4. Agriculture

5. Tourism

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
As Fashion Weeks around the world vie for attention, Tokyo Fashion Week is hoping young designers can help give it an edge. The goal: help next brands go abroad, and promote Tokyo as the home of the next big hit. But is it enough to stand out?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tokyo Fashion week aims to nurture new talent | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
As Fashion Weeks around the world vie for attention, Tokyo Fashion Week is hoping young designers can help give it an edge. The goal: help next brands go abroad, and promote Tokyo as the home of the next big hit. But is it enough to stand out?

# data[].attributes.headline
Why hundreds of Samsung workers are protesting in India

# data[].attributes.subject
Why hundreds of Samsung workers are protesting in India

# data[].attributes.body
The workers, supported by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), are pushing for better wages and working conditions through collective bargaining, emphasizing that about 90% of the workforce belongs to SILWU. Despite Samsung's statements prioritizing worker welfare and engagement, tensions escalated when police detained around 104 protesters for marching without permission.

The rise of labor unions and worker movements advocating for rights and recognition in the manufacturing sector.

Manufacturing- Labor Relations

Technology- Supply Chain Management

Labor and Employment- Worker Rights Advocacy

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tamil Nadu: Why hundreds of Samsung workers are protesting in India

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
About 1500 workers in Tamil Nadu state have been striking work for the past 11 days.

# data[].attributes.body
Greece has become the first Christian Orthodox-majority country to legalize same-sex marriage, following a parliamentary vote of 176-76. The new law also allows same-sex couples to adopt children. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed the decision as a step toward greater equality, though it has sparked significant opposition from the Orthodox Church, leading to protests in Athens. Industries that are getting affected

Legal and Human Rights: Legal Services, Human Rights Organizations

Tourism: LGBTQ+ Tourism, Economic Impact

Media and Publishing: News Coverage, Content Production

Political and Social Policy: Regional Influence, Social Policy Changes

Religious and Social Organizations: Religious Debates, Support Services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The legislation has been praised by LGBTQ organisations, but strongly opposed by the Orthodox Church

Greece has become the first Christian Orthodox-majority country to legalise same-sex marriage.

Same-sex couples will now also be legally allowed to adopt children after Thursday's vote.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the new law would "boldly abolish a serious inequality".

But the legislation has divided the country, with fierce resistance being led by the powerful Greek Orthodox Church.

The bill needed a simple majority to pass through the 300-member parliament.

Mr Mitsotakis championed the bill but required the support of opposition parties to get it over the line, with dozens of MPs from his centre-right governing party opposed.

"People who have been invisible will finally be made visible around us, and with them, many children will finally find their rightful place," the prime minister told parliament during a debate ahead of the vote.

"The reform makes the lives of several of our fellow citizens better, without taking away anything from the lives of the many."

The vote has been hailed as historic by LGBTQ organisations in Greece.

Fifteen of the European Union's 27 members have already legalised same-sex marriage. It is permitted in 35 countries worldwide.

Greece has until now lagged behind some of its European neighbours, largely because of opposition from the Church.

It is the first country in southeast Europe to have marriage equality.

Supporters of the Church held rallies at Syntagma Square in Athens on Thursday. Many displayed banners, held crosses, read prayers and sang passages from the Bible.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Parliament's vote for equality in marriage and adoption was opposed by the Greek Orthodox Church.

# data[].attributes.headline
Uganda’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Signed into Law Amid Global Criticism

# data[].attributes.subject
Uganda’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Signed into Law Amid Global Criticism

# data[].attributes.body
Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has signed a draconian anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law, sparking global condemnation for violating fundamental human rights. The law imposes severe penalties for LGBTQ+ individuals, including life imprisonment.
Keywords: Uganda, anti-LGBTQ+ law, human rights, legal discrimination, global backlash.
This extreme anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is a stark reminder of the uphill battle for equality in many parts of the world, with dire implications for the safety and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The new law contains a provision that would punish "aggravated homosexuality" with the death penalty.

# data[].attributes.headline
Iraq Criminalizes Same-Sex Relationships, Faces International Backlash

# data[].attributes.subject
Iraq Criminalizes Same-Sex Relationships, Faces International Backlash

# data[].attributes.body
Iraq has passed a law that criminalizes same-sex relationships, with sentences of up to 15 years in prison, further suppressing LGBTQ+ rights in the region. Human rights organizations have condemned the move.
Keywords: Iraq, LGBTQ+ rights, same-sex relationships, human rights violations, Middle East.
This law marks a significant regression in human rights for Iraq and may isolate the country further on the international stage, as more nations move toward inclusive policies.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Iraq criminalises same-sex relationships with maximum 15 years in prison

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The bill had initially included the death penalty for same-sex acts but was amended before being passed after strong opposition from the United States and European nations.

# data[].attributes.headline
Lebanon Blasts Linked to Walkie-Talkie Firm as Israel Declares New War Phase

# data[].attributes.subject
Lebanon Blasts Linked to Walkie-Talkie Firm as Israel Declares New War Phase

# data[].attributes.body
A walkie-talkie firm is being investigated for its potential link to the recent blasts in Lebanon, which are believed to be part of a larger conflict involving Israel. This comes as Israel declares a new phase of its military actions.

Lebanon blasts, Israel war, walkie-talkie firm, conflict, investigation.

The investigation highlights the surprising role of private companies in military conflicts. As Israel escalates its military operations, the region continues to be a flashpoint for complex geopolitical issues.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Raf Sanchez, Mithil Aggarwal, Yuliya Talmazan and Doha Madani

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Israeli military strikes Hezbollah as Nasrallah responds to wave of device blasts in Lebanon

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The attack on southern Lebanon on Thursday involved airstrikes and artillery, an Israeli official told NBC News, after two days of explosions that killed at least 37 people, including two children, and injured thousands more.

# data[].attributes.headline
Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first female president

# data[].attributes.subject
Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first female president

# data[].attributes.body
espite the celebratory atmosphere, the election was marred by violence, with over 20 local candidates reportedly killed. Sheinbaum aims to address the root causes of violence and crime, particularly by investing in welfare programs to deter youth recruitment into criminal groups. She also plans to foster a respectful relationship with the United States while advocating for Mexicans living there.

Trending Concept

The trend of increasing female leadership and representation in politics, alongside the ongoing issues of violence and crime in electoral contexts.

Industries

Political and Governance: Women's Representation

Public Safety and Security: Crime Prevention

Social Services and Welfare: Welfare Programs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Claudia Sheinbaum celebrates 'historic' victory
Claudia Sheinbaum has been elected as Mexico's first female president, in a historic landslide win.
Mexico's official electoral authority said preliminary results showed the 61-year-old former mayor of Mexico City winning between 58% and 60% of the vote in Sunday's election.

That gives her a lead of about 30 percentage points over her main rival, businesswoman Xóchitl Gálvez.

Ms Sheinbaum will replace her mentor, outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, on 1 October.

The election of a woman to the highest office was an emotional moment for some

Ms Sheinbaum, a former energy scientist, has promised continuity, saying that she will continue to build on the "advances" made by Mr López Obrador, further building on the welfare programmes which have made the outgoing president very popular.

But in her victory speech she also highlighted what has set this Mexican election apart from previous ones. She told cheering voters: "For the first time in the 200 years of the [Mexican] Republic, I will become the first woman president of Mexico."

She said it was an achievement not just for her but for all women.

"I've said it from the start, this is not just about me getting [to the top office], it's about all of us getting here."

She added: "I won't fail you."

Ms Sheinbaum also thanked her rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, who has conceded victory.

Prior to running for president, Ms Sheinbaum was mayor of Mexico City, one of the most influential political positions in the country and one that is seen as paving the way for the presidency.

Ms Sheinbaum, whose Jewish maternal grandparents immigrated to Mexico from Bulgaria fleeing the Nazis, had an illustrious career as a scientist before delving into politics. Her paternal grandparents hailed from Lithuania.

Both of her parents were scientists and Ms Sheinbaum studied physics before going on to receive a doctorate in energy engineering.

She spent years at a renowned research lab in California studying Mexican energy consumption patterns and became an expert on climate change.

That experience and her student activism eventually earned her the position of secretary of the environment for Mexico City at the time when Andrés Manuel López Obrador was mayor of the capital.

In 2018 she became the first female mayor of Mexico City, a post she held until 2023, when she stepped down to run for president.

Supporters of Claudia Sheinbaum gathered at the Zócalo to celebrate

The election, which pitted Ms Sheinbaum against Ms Gálvez, has been described as a sea change for women in Mexico.

Edelmira Montiel, 87, said that she was grateful to be alive to see a woman elected to the top office.

"Before, we couldn't even vote, and when you could, it was to vote for the person your husband told you to vote for. Thank God that has changed and I get to live it," she told Reuters news agency, referring to the fact that women were only allowed to vote in national elections in 1953.

While the fact that the two front-runners were women was widely celebrated, the campaign was marred by violent attacks.

As well as a new president, voters were also electing all members of Mexico's Congress and governors in eight states, the head of Mexico City's government, and thousands of local officials.

And it was local candidates in particular who were targeted in the run-up to the vote.

The government says more than 20 were killed across Mexico, although other surveys put the total at 37.

Ms Gálvez harshly criticised the government and her rival in the presidential race for the violence which blights large parts of Mexico.

She promised to be "the bravest president, a president who does confront crime" if elected, but failed to provide many details about how she would tackle the powerful criminal cartels which are behind much of the violence.

After Ms Sheinbaum's lead became unassailable, Ms Gálvez called her.

"I told her I saw a Mexico with a lot of pain and violence. I wished that she could solve the severe problems our people have," Ms Gálvez said of the call.

How to tackle Mexico's violent cartels is going to be one of the many challenges facing Ms Sheinbaum when she takes up office.

She has said that it is important to tackle what she says are the roots of the violence and has promised to invest in welfare programmes to prevent poor young Mexicans from being recruited by criminal groups.

On relations with Mexico's northern neighbour, the United States, which at times have been testy under her predecessor in office, she said she would ensure there would be "a relationship of friendship, mutual respect and equality".

But in a reference to the many Mexicans living and working in the US, she promised to "always defend the Mexicans who are on the other side of the border".

Relations between the US and Mexico suffered under Mr López Obrador, who has been in power since 2018.

The outspoken leader was barred from running for a second term under Mexico's constitution, which limits presidents to a single six-year-term.

He threw his weight behind Ms Sheinbaum instead.

Having the backing of the popular president, who has an approval rate of close to 60%, gave Ms Sheinbaum's campaign a huge boost.

Many of those voting for her said they backed her and Mr López Obrador's party programme to alleviate poverty and wanted to see it continued.
With additional reporting by BBC Monitoring in Miami.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mexico elects Sheinbaum as first woman president

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Claudia Sheinbaum has beaten her rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, by a landslide to become Mexico's next leader.

# data[].attributes.headline
India’s Tax Regime and Its Potential Side Effects

# data[].attributes.subject
India’s Tax Regime and Its Potential Side Effects

# data[].attributes.body
India’s new tax policies could have wide-reaching effects on various sectors, including e-commerce and tech companies. The government’s approach to taxation may drive significant economic changes.

Keywords: India, tax regime, economic policy, e-commerce, tech sector.

India’s tax policies may have unintended consequences for both domestic companies and foreign investors. As the country strives to modernize its economy, it must carefully balance innovation with regulation to avoid stifling growth.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
CNBC’s Inside India newsletter: The tax with potential side effects

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Indian government is borrowing a page from 17th-century England over taxation, but modern Britain holds the clue to some of its side effects.

# data[].attributes.headline
SpaceX launches private mission that's expected to feature first all-civilian spacewalk

# data[].attributes.subject
SpaceX launches private mission that's expected to feature first all-civilian spacewalk

# data[].attributes.body
this mission as a milestone in private space exploration and its potential contribution to future space missions, such as those to the moon and Mars.

Industry: space exploration, technology, and entrepreneurship.

The Polaris Dawn mission could have a significant impact on the space industry, by demonstrating the capabilities of private space companies and the potential for commercial space exploration. It could also inspire future generations of scientists and engineers to pursue careers in space-related fields.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SpaceX launches private mission that’s expected to feature first all-civilian spacewalk

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The mission, known as Polaris Dawn, is designed to carry four crew members to the highest orbital altitude that humans have reached since 1972.

# data[].attributes.headline
presents data on the role of social media as a news source, highlighting its usage and impact on news consumption.

# data[].attributes.subject
presents data on the role of social media as a news source, highlighting its usage and impact on news consumption.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Media and Publishing

2. Digital Marketing

3. Technology

4. Advertising

5. Telecommunications

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Social media as a news source worldwide 2024 | Statista

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
How many people get their news from social media? A global survey held in over 40 countries revealed which country uses social media as a news outlet the most.

# data[].attributes.headline
Thailand's upcoming international design, lifestyle, and fashion event, aiming to showcase and elevate the country's creative industries.

# data[].attributes.subject
Thailand's upcoming international design, lifestyle, and fashion event, aiming to showcase and elevate the country's creative industries.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Design

2. Lifestyle

3. Fashion

4. Tourism

# data[].attributes.headline
PM Modi's "Design in India, Design for the World" slogan to boost India’s global tech and design presence.

# data[].attributes.subject
PM Modi's "Design in India, Design for the World" slogan to boost India’s global tech and design presence.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Technology

2. Design

3. Innovation

4. Manufacturing

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
PM Narendra Modi: ‘Design in India, Design for World’: What PM Narendra Modi’s ‘new slogan’ for technology industry given on Independence Day means | - Times of India

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
TECH NEWS : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during India’s 78th Independence Day celebrations, urged the Indian IT industry to embrace a new vision of ’Design in In

# data[].attributes.headline
Skoda Auto India is partnering with artist Harun Robert to create a unique camouflage design for the Kyalq SUV to enhance its visual appeal.

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Skoda Auto India is partnering with artist Harun Robert to create a unique camouflage design for the Kyalq SUV to enhance its visual appeal.

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1. Automotive

2. Art

3. Design

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Škoda Auto India collaborates with Artist Harun Robert for Kylaq SUV camouflage design | Autocar Professional

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Škoda Auto India partners with artist Harun Robert and fans to create a custom camouflage for the upcoming Kylaq SUV, engaging customers in the design process as the vehicle undergoes testing across India.

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Skoda is introducing a new design language with the Elroq SUV to modernize its brand image and attract contemporary buyers.

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Skoda is introducing a new design language with the Elroq SUV to modernize its brand image and attract contemporary buyers.

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1. Automotive

2. Design

3. Consumer Goods

4. Manufacturing

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Skoda Elroq compact SUV to feature Skoda’s new design language

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The first exterior sketches of the Elroq provide a preview of the design, including a new front with Skoda lettering and Matrix-LED headlights integrated into the bumper.

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Ogilvy's launch of a new report on social trends, aimed at helping brands and organizations understand and navigate future social media trends.

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Ogilvy's launch of a new report on social trends, aimed at helping brands and organizations understand and navigate future social media trends.

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1. Marketing and Advertising

2. Public Relations

3. Social Media

4. Branding

5. Market Research

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Ogilvy launches new ‘The Future of Social’ trends report for brands and organisations

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Ogilvy has today releases its latest Futures trend report ‘The Future of Social’, examining the rapid developments and disruptions in social media, and their significance for brands and organisations. Examining 11 trends across key aspects of social influence, social content and social platfor

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Apple's introduction of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, detailing their new features and improvements.

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Apple's introduction of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, detailing their new features and improvements.

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1. Technology

2. Consumer Electronics

3. Telecommunications

4. Retail

5. Software and App Development

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Apple introduces iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus

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Apple today announced iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, designed specifically for Apple Intelligence, an easy-to-use personal intelligence system.

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 Japan's response to recent natural disasters and the measures being taken for recovery and relief efforts.

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 Japan's response to recent natural disasters and the measures being taken for recovery and relief efforts.

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1. Construction

2. Insurance

3. Energy

4. Agriculture

5. Tourism

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As Fashion Weeks around the world vie for attention, Tokyo Fashion Week is hoping young designers can help give it an edge. The goal: help next brands go abroad, and promote Tokyo as the home of the next big hit. But is it enough to stand out?

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Tokyo Fashion week aims to nurture new talent | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News

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As Fashion Weeks around the world vie for attention, Tokyo Fashion Week is hoping young designers can help give it an edge. The goal: help next brands go abroad, and promote Tokyo as the home of the next big hit. But is it enough to stand out?

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Dubai Design Week 2024 to promote the festival’s events and exhibitions, driving engagement and awareness in the design community.

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Dubai Design Week 2024 to promote the festival’s events and exhibitions, driving engagement and awareness in the design community.

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1. Design

2. Arts

3. Events

4. Tourism

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Dubai Design Week 2024 guide, from events to installations and new fairs | The National

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Annual cultural event brings together designers, brands and professionals for six days

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Singaporean designers making a global impact with their projects, showcasing their influence in international design.

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Singaporean designers making a global impact with their projects, showcasing their influence in international design.

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1. Interior Design

2. Architecture

3. Fashion Design

4. Construction

5. Global Design and Consultancy

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Singapore designers make their mark with projects around the world

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Singaporeans are on the global stage with projects in architecture and urban planning. Read more at straitstimes.com.