Image Credit: serezniy/123rf.com Ireland is set to launch a permanent basic income program for artists in 2026, following a successful three-year pilot that demonstrated significant economic and social benefits. The initiative aims to provide financial stability to cultural workers, a sector severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the cancellation of live performances…
Image Credit: lopolo/123rf.com In a historic move, the Church of Norway has formally apologized to LGBTQ+ individuals for decades of discrimination and exclusion. The apology was delivered by Presiding Bishop Olav Fykse Tveit on Thursday at the London Pub in Oslo, a significant LGBTQ+ venue and the site of the tragic 2022 Oslo Pride shooting,…
Image Credit: dolgachov/123rf.com Sweden is set to implement a nationwide mobile phone ban in schools and after-school clubs starting in autumn 2026. This policy will require students aged seven to 16 to surrender their devices until the end of the school day, aiming to enhance focus and create safer learning environments. The announcement was made…
Image Credit: dedmityay/123rf.com A significant milestone in global environmental policy was reached on September 15, as the World Trade Organization (WTO) officially implemented a landmark agreement aimed at combating overfishing. This agreement, known as the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, requires participating countries to reduce subsidies that promote unsustainable fishing practices, a move intended to…
Image Credit: vladirina32/123rf.com In Dakar, Senegal, a unique initiative is making strides in promoting positive masculinity and improving maternal health. Led by Imam Ibrahima Diane, the “school for husbands” is part of a United Nations-backed program aimed at engaging men in discussions around reproductive health, family planning, and gender equality. This program recognizes that in…
Image Credit: yggdrasill/123rf.com On August 15, Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize announced the establishment of the Great Mayan Jungle Biocultural Corridor, a significant transnational initiative aimed at protecting one of the world’s most vital tropical forests. Spanning over 14 million acres across southern Mexico and northern Central America, this reserve is set to become the second…
Image Credit: skumer/123rf.com Eighteen individuals have been arrested in Surrey, UK, following a month-long police initiative aimed at tackling street harassment against women. The program, named “Jog On,” involved undercover officers posing as female joggers in areas known for such incidents, emphasizing the need for safer public spaces. Launched by Surrey Police, the pilot program…
Image Credit: fotogigi85/123rf.com In a significant shift within the global fur industry, the number of animals farmed and killed for their fur has decreased dramatically from over 140 million in 2014 to approximately 20 million in 2023, according to an analysis by Humane World for Animals. This decline is part of a broader movement away…
Image Credit: mavoimage/123rf.com Conflict is an unavoidable aspect of human relationships, yet many individuals approach it with fear and trepidation. Understanding how to navigate disagreements can lead to healthier interactions and stronger connections. Recent insights from therapists highlight effective strategies for managing tough conversations, transforming potential conflicts into opportunities for growth. The first step in…
Image Credit: jackiso/123rf.com Helsinki has marked a significant milestone by completing a full year without any traffic fatalities, a remarkable achievement confirmed by city and police officials. The last recorded fatal accident occurred in early July 2024 in the Kontula district. This unprecedented stretch of safe driving has drawn attention to the various factors contributing…
