Author: Emily Harper

Workarounds and loopholes allow Russian citizens to vacation in Europe, drawing criticism and calls for tighter restrictions. More than three years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Russian tourists continue to travel across Europe, despite visa restrictions, suspended flight routes, and political condemnation. While several countries have moved to block most tourist visas, loopholes in the Schengen system are allowing many Russians to bypass restrictions — frustrating critics who say the sanctions lack cohesion and moral clarity. According to EU data, more than 565,000 Schengen visas were granted to Russian citizens in 2024 — a far cry from the 4 million…

A New Chapter for Africa’s Space Ambitions The African Union has officially inaugurated the African Space Agency (AfSA), marking a turning point in the continent’s technological and scientific advancement. Located in Cairo, AfSA aims to unify and coordinate Africa’s space-related efforts under one central institution. This initiative is the culmination of nearly a decade of groundwork aimed at harnessing space technology for sustainable development across the continent. AfSA will serve as a collaborative platform for space agencies, policymakers, investors, and research institutions to align strategies and share knowledge. Its mission is to enhance Africa’s capacity in Earth observation, satellite connectivity,…

Investors pull out of U.S. assets as stocks tumble, gold surges, and economic uncertainty grows. American financial markets are flashing warning signs as President Donald Trump’s economic policies enter a turbulent phase. With new tariffs rattling global trade and investor sentiment, Wall Street is reacting in ways not seen since the era of the Great Depression, according to recent market data and economic reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average has plummeted 9.1% in the first three weeks of April, marking its worst April performance since 1932. The broader S&P 500 is down 14% since the start of Trump’s new term,…

Strategic Union Creates a New Insurance Powerhouse In a major development for the European insurance industry, Swiss firms Helvetia and Baloise have announced their decision to merge, forming a new entity named Helvetia Baloise Holding. The unified company is set to become Switzerland’s second-largest insurance group, boasting a combined business volume of 20 billion Swiss francs—equivalent to nearly $24.7 billion USD. This strategic move positions the new entity among the top ten insurance companies in Europe, according to a joint statement released by both firms. The merger is described as a “merger of equals” and is structured to ensure a…

Shocking Attack in Popular Tourist Area In a devastating escalation of violence in Indian-controlled Kashmir, at least 20 tourists were killed and over 30 others injured after a group of gunmen opened fire near a popular meadow close to the town of Pahalgam. According to police, four armed men launched the ambush on Tuesday in the Baisaran meadow area, a spot widely frequented by domestic tourists for its scenic mountain views and pine forests. Authorities retrieved at least 20 bodies from the site, while emergency services rushed the wounded to nearby hospitals. Many of the injured remain in critical condition.…

As Canada heads into a pivotal federal election, climate change—once a dominant issue for voters—has largely slipped from the national agenda. Instead, the conversation has shifted toward economic concerns, energy security, and managing relations with the United States. The two leading candidates are now placing greater emphasis on fossil fuel development, reflecting a dramatic shift in political tone compared to previous elections. From Climate Priority to Energy Pragmatism In a not-so-distant election, both major parties in Canada aligned on the urgency of addressing climate change. A national net-zero emissions law had just been passed, and public pressure pushed climate action…

A Remarkable Discovery in New Mexico In the heart of White Sands National Park, New Mexico, a groundbreaking archaeological discovery has redefined what is known about early human innovation. Hidden beneath layers of sediment and exposed by a combination of natural erosion and excavation, researchers uncovered a series of human footprints accompanied by long, linear drag marks in the dried mud of an ancient lakebed. These markings, previously thought to be simple prehistoric tracks, have now been identified as possible evidence of one of the earliest forms of transportation technology. The tracks, preserved in exceptional condition, indicate the use of…

Saturday Night Football Confronts Youth Crime Every Saturday night in Uppsala, Sweden, a soccer program is tackling one of the country’s most pressing social challenges. Robert Wirehag, a pastor and former youth soccer player for IK Sirius, organizes “night football” sessions in the Gottsunda area, a suburb with high crime rates and limited opportunities for young people. Wirehag sees these youth—mainly boys between 12 and 17 years old—as vulnerable. “Some of the boys we are working with are already in gangs. Some of them are on their way to being recruited, and some of them are not yet there,” he…

The Trump administration’s recent announcement regarding tariffs on electronics has left many confused, sparking debates about the implications for consumers and international trade. While the decision to exempt certain electronics, such as smartphones and laptops, from new tariffs seemed to offer a temporary relief, the situation remains unclear. Here’s a breakdown of what we know so far and the potential impact on consumers. A Temporary Exemption That Raises More Questions On Friday, the Trump administration announced that it would pause its new taxes on electronics imported into the United States. This move was seen as an attempt to ease the…

Skytrax Crowns the Singaporean Hub for the 13th Time Singapore Changi Airport has once again secured the title of World’s Best Airport, according to Skytrax’s global survey of travelers. This marks the 13th time the airport has earned the top honor at the World Airport Awards, held this year in Madrid. More than just a place to catch flights, Changi has become a destination in itself. The airport allows passengers to check in up to 48 hours before departure, encouraging them to enjoy the facilities, which include a 10-story shopping center, indoor gardens, and an immersive art experience. The centerpiece…