UN secretary-general António Guterres on Monday warned about the global suffocation of human rights due to division and greed. He criticized ongoing conflicts like Russia-Ukraine and called for respect of territories and a cease-fire between Palestine and Israel. He also highlighted the negative impacts of climate change and technological exploitation.
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President Trump has fired several board members from the Kennedy Centre and appointed himself as chairman. Citing previous drag shows as problematic, he promises a new board and programming aligned with his vision. This unprecedented move raises uncertainty about the centre’s future leadership.
President Trump expressed optimism about his working relationship with Jeff Bezos, claiming Bezos criticised The Washington Post's staff and financial losses. Bezos announced changes to the paper's opinion pages, focusing on personal liberties and free markets. Trump noted positive shifts and collaboration with Bezos, reflecting evolving political support evidenced by Bezos' attendance at his inauguration.
The UK has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) permit for European visitors, priced at £10, rising to £16 from April 9. The ETA aims to enhance security and expedite entry procedures with background checks and faster border crossings. Valid for two years, the system initially applies to approximately 30 countries, excluding Ireland.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized President Trump's tariffs on Colombian imports, warning it would increase costs for American consumers. Colombian President Gustavo Petro initially resisted Trump's measures but eventually conceded amidst pressure, agreeing to accept deportation flights.
A suspected Norovirus outbreak on the P&O Iona cruise ship has caused severe stomach issues for passengers and crew, leading to chaotic scenes with people vomiting in public. Over 5,000 passengers and 1,800 crew are on board, with containment efforts underway. Passengers report difficulties with food, fresh linens, and medication shortages. P&O Cruises promises full refunds for missed excursions.
The Trump administration has terminated several probationary employees from federal health agencies to downsize the government. Thousands received termination letters citing inadequate performance and lack of fit. Exemptions were made for certain CDC and FDA staff.
A UN report highlights that 40% of the global population lacks education in a language they understand, with numbers soaring to 90% in some low- and middle-income countries. UNESCO's report stresses the growing importance of multilingual policies in diverse classrooms. Challenges include inadequate trained teachers and resources, as well as community resistance, causing significant learning disparities.
Ian Kersting, a US lawyer specialising in sexual assault cases, was found dead in his Louisiana office in an apparent suicide. The Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office expressed their condolences and emphasized the need for privacy and support during this period. Kersting, aged 34, was an Assistant District Attorney dedicated to the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative.
Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum agreed to deploy 10,000 soldiers, prompting President Trump to pause tariffs on Mexico for one month. "At this rate of achievement, not only should President @realDonaldTrump be on Mount Rushmore, I want to personally work the chisel!" Elon Musk posted. South Dakota's Mount Rushmore features the heads of four presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.
Fourteen members of a Christian sect in Queensland were convicted of causing the death of an 8-year-old diabetic girl by refusing her insulin on religious grounds. The parents and other sect members were found guilty of manslaughter, believing in divine healing over medical treatment. Sentencing is set for February 11.