Sunset for the Asian El Dorado
Macau Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng is making it increasingly clear that the territory he administers no longer sees the gambling industry as the key to its future development.
Global Divisions Over Climate Damage Reparations
In the global environmental conference COP27, which is set to conclude today, much of the debate has been focused on whether or not wealthier countries should pay climate reparations to more vulnerable nations.
Yemeni Refugee Family Struggles in India
In September 2021, Samah Ameen, her husband, and three children arrived in India after fleeing the Yemen civil war with the hopes for a better future. But more than a year later, they continue to struggle and haven’t been recognized as refugees.
Israel Refuses Cooperation with US Probe of Journalist Killing
The family of Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh expressed hope that the FBI’s newly announced investigation into her death will bring them “closer to justice,” as Israeli officials declared that they will not cooperate, and even condemned the United States for opening a probe at all.
UN Decision Sparks Hope for Indigenous Groups
In a historic decision by the United Nations Human Rights Committee, the Australian government has been found to have violated the rights of its indigenous Torres Strait Islands populations by failing to protect them against climate change. This ruling could become a template for other indigenous groups around the world to secure their rights.
Death Toll Mounts in Iran Protests
Demonstrations against Iran’s authoritarian regime have continued for nearly two months in spite of the rising number of people killed by state forces and the Iranian parliament’s recent vote to execute protesters.
Flood Disasters Trigger Basement Housing Ban in Seoul
The proliferation of basement housing in Seoul, South Korea, has proven in recent years to make the city particularly vulnerable to flooding which results in loss of life and extensive property damage. The metropolitan government has pledged to act.
Tuvalu Promotes Fossil Fuel Nonproliferation Treaty
The South Pacific island nation of Tuvalu promoted a proposal for a fossil fuel nonproliferation treaty to COP27, the United Nations’ annual climate change conference.
Haitian Gang Leaders Reeling from International Sanctions
Canadian military intervention in Haiti now appears unlikely in spite of the request by Ariel Henry, who is acting as Haiti’s prime minister, for a “specialized armed force” to be deployed in his country against endemic gang violence. Instead, international sanctions on individuals are being employed to do the work.
Bread & Roses: Bosses Can’t Force Workers to Quit
Japanese employers have often used “taps on the shoulder” to induce unwanted employees to resign, but the courts have made clear that workers have no need to agree to give up their jobs.