African nations assert leadership at the U.N. while regional crises persist
As leaders gathered, progress along climate and financial fronts contrasted with grim reports on rights and violence.
South Africa
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U.N. climate summit confronts 'double burden' of action and debt
The meeting served as a global platform for nations to present their updated national climate plans for the next decade.
Global democracy plummets, press freedom at 50-year low, group finds
International IDEA highlights even established democracies are tested by shifting politics and weaker institutions.
U.N. rights chief condemns Israel over Gaza, cites evidence for case
He also warned against a 'glorification of violence' as some nations become an 'extension of their ruler's personal power.'
In final stretch, pandemic treaty talks narrowing on benefit sharing
A $10.5 billion global fund for pandemic preparedness would cost a fraction of the devastation the treaty seeks to prevent.
Trump's $4.9B aid cut bypasses Congress to threaten organizations
The action is expected to impact operations and funding of international organizations that rely on U.S. contributions.
U.S.-South Africa rift complicates Group of 20 summit in Johannesburg
Pretoria's ambitious agenda for the G-20 focuses on inclusive growth, food security, AI, debt relief, and climate finance.
Brussels and Jakarta agree to tighten trade links as more U.S. tariffs loom
A push for deeper bilateral ties is a sign of U.S. trading partners banding together to cut dependence on Washington.
Sand and dust storms intensify global health and economic crises
The World Meteorological Organization revealed these airborne hazards affect 330 million people in 150 countries.
Trump threatens to impose extra tariffs on BRICS-aligned nations
Nations that back the bloc of emerging market countries' so-called 'anti-American policies' could face an added 10% tariff.
ICJ finishes public hearings into Israeli obligations on Gaza aid
A Palestinian diplomat told the U.N.'s top court that Israel uses aid as a 'weapon of war,' targeting civilians and aid workers.
Nations make 'history in Geneva' with landmark pandemic treaty deal
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AI promoted for research and innovation in Africa and Europe
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Leaders push link between science, technology and government policies
From Africa to the Americas, leaders spoke of the need to ensure that policy decisions are more scientifically informed.
With FCPA paused, U.S. prosecutors skip OECD anti-bribery meetings
The U.S. absence raises questions about the Trump administration's commitment to enforcing anti-bribery laws.
Slowing gains among women in parliaments as rights are attacked
The averate rate of gains for women-held seats accelerated between 2000 and 2015, but slowed in the last decade.