Short News
More power to South African women
Today, 42% of the seats in South Africa’s parliament are held by women. The number has increased from 2.8% since 1990, especially since the end of Apartheid.
Sustainable electricity in California
Due to political demands for green energy, California’s greenhouse gas emissions were lower in 2016 than in 1990, though the population and economy are growing.
Young Kenyans say no to violence
A project in Kenya has nearly halved the number of rapes in a slum area. Girls are taught self-defence and boys learn to interfere if they witness harassment.
A safer start in life
Today, skilled health workers are present at nearly 80% of live births worldwide, up from 62% in 2005. This means more women survive giving birth.
Chile to ban plastic bags
Chile presents a new law to ban the sale of plastic bags in the entire country. The ban is to come into force next year.
Slums smaller part of world cities
Since 2000, the share of urban residents living in slums dropped from nearly 30% to 23%. However, the absolute number of people living in slums increased.
Nepal on the rise
Last year, Nepal’s economy grew by 7.5%. The growth is due to construction efforts after the 2015 earthquake, a good monsoon, and trade with India.
Tunisian mayor making history
Souad Abderrahim is the first woman to be elected mayor of Tunis. She is also the first woman in history to lead a capital city of an Arabic country.
New roads to opportunities
The World Food Programme built and repaired 17.000 km. of roads and mountain trails in 2017. This helps bring nutritious food to remote communities.
Amazonas gets human rights
Colombia now grants the Amazon rainforest the same rights as its citizens. This obliges the state to protect the forest, which is now under increasing pressure.
A more peaceful Gambia
The human rights climate in Gambia has improved after president Barrow won the election in 2016. Political prisoners have been released and the media is freer.
Better education in Asia
In East Asia and the Middle East, many people now get a higher education than their parents. This fights poverty, reduces inequality, and even boosts growth.