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Legalise abortions in first trimester, German commission says

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An expert commission appointed by the government in Germany has recommended legalizing abortion within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Currently, while abortions are technically illegal, exceptions exist for cases such as medical consultation beforehand, rape, or danger to the woman’s life. However, the ambiguous legal situation leads to challenges for both women seeking abortions and healthcare providers, contributing to stigma and uneven access to services, especially in rural areas.

The commission’s report, released a year ago, argues that maintaining the status quo is untenable in light of constitutional, human rights, and European law considerations. However, the government is not bound to follow the commission’s recommendations, and conservative opposition parties are threatening legal action if the law is changed. They accuse the commission of bias and claim the government is initiating a culture war over abortion rights.

While Germany has generally avoided the intense politicization of abortion seen in other countries, such as Poland or the US, upcoming national elections next year could intensify the debate. Politicians may use the issue to rally support amidst declining popularity, potentially prolonging the discussion and fueling further polarization.

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Macron says Paris Olympics opening ceremony could be moved

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French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony might be relocated from the River Seine due to security concerns. He suggested alternative venues such as the Trocadéro or the traditional site, the Stade de France. Originally designed to span a 6km stretch of the Seine with over 10,000 athletes on barges and 600,000 spectators along the riverbanks, the event’s scale has been reduced to accommodate only 300,000 invited guests due to security reasons.

Heightened security threats, particularly from groups like the Islamic State, have prompted the implementation of backup plans for the ceremony. Macron emphasized his commitment to ensuring the safety of the games and mentioned efforts to establish an Olympic truce, reaching out to international partners including Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The Paris Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8. Despite security concerns, Macron expressed confidence in the successful execution of the opening ceremony, emphasizing its historic significance as the first to be held outside a stadium.

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‘Incredible feeling’ – Alonso toasts Leverkusen title

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Xabi Alonso expressed overwhelming joy as Bayer Leverkusen clinched their inaugural Bundesliga title with an emphatic 5-0 triumph over Werder Bremen, marking a historic moment for the club. This victory, achieved with five games remaining, ignited jubilant scenes at the BayArena, with fans joining the celebration on the pitch.

Alonso, reflecting on his debut season as a coach, couldn’t contain his excitement, describing the feeling as “incredible.” The match witnessed stellar performances, including Victor Boniface’s penalty and stunning goals from Granit Xhaka and Florian Wirtz. For Xhaka and Wirtz, the magnitude of their achievement hadn’t fully sunk in yet.

The win not only ended Bayern Munich’s 11-year Bundesliga reign but also positioned Leverkusen for a potential treble, with the German Cup and Europa League still within reach. The anticipation surrounding Leverkusen’s title triumph had been building for weeks, with fans eagerly awaiting the moment their team would lift the Meisterschale.

Despite an early scare from Werder, Leverkusen’s dominance prevailed, highlighted by Xhaka and Wirtz’s remarkable goals. The match was a testament to Leverkusen’s remarkable turnaround under Alonso, who took charge when the team was in the relegation zone just 18 months ago.

Overall, Leverkusen’s Bundesliga triumph symbolized a remarkable journey from adversity to glory, marking a new chapter in the club’s history.

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Germany passes law making it easier to legally change gender

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Germany has taken a significant stride towards inclusivity and recognition of gender diversity with the passing of the ‘Gender Identity Act’. This new legislation, which garnered widespread support from the ruling coalition and passed after fiery debates, marks a pivotal moment in the country’s approach to gender rights.

Under the provisions of the Gender Identity Act, individuals aged 18 and above can now undergo a simplified legal process to change their gender identity and first name. Gone are the stringent requirements of obtaining approval from multiple psychiatrists and facing a court decision. Instead, adults need only notify authorities three months prior to the change, with a straightforward selection from three existing gender options outlined in German legislation. Additionally, once a change is made, individuals are unable to reverse or make further alterations for a year, ensuring stability and commitment to their decision.

For adolescents aged 14 to 18, the law mandates parental consent for gender and name changes. However, in cases where parents or guardians withhold consent, applicants have the recourse to appeal to the Family Court for authorization. Meanwhile, for those under 14, parents or guardians are required to initiate the request on their behalf, emphasizing the importance of familial support and legal guardianship in decisions regarding gender identity.

Importantly, the legislation does not interfere with the rights of private establishments, such as gyms and dressing rooms, to determine their admittance policies, respecting their autonomy while safeguarding individual rights.

It’s crucial to note that the Gender Identity Act solely focuses on legal procedures and does not alter the regulations surrounding gender-affirming surgeries. This distinction underscores the multifaceted nature of gender identity and the diverse needs of individuals seeking legal recognition.

Germany’s progressive stance on gender identity is a testament to its commitment to equality and human rights. By streamlining legal processes and empowering individuals to express their gender identity authentically, the country sets a precedent for other nations to follow in promoting inclusivity and respect for all gender identities.

As the Gender Identity Act comes into effect on 1 November, it heralds a new era of acceptance and understanding, reaffirming Germany’s position as a beacon of progress in the global fight for gender equality.

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Roberto Cavalli: Italian fashion designer dies aged 83

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Renowned Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli, famous for his vibrant animal prints on leather and textiles, has passed away at the age of 83. The announcement was made by his eponymous fashion house on Instagram, though no further details were provided. According to Italian news agency ANSA, he died at his home in Florence after battling a prolonged illness.

Cavalli, who founded his company in the 1970s, leaves behind a legacy of iconic designs worn by luminaries such as Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren, Kim Kardashian, and Jennifer Lopez. Fausto Puglisi, the creative director of Roberto Cavalli, expressed his reverence for the late designer, calling him “a beacon of inspiration for others” and describing working with him as the pinnacle of his career.

Born in Florence on November 15, 1940, Cavalli was renowned for his maximalist approach to fashion, incorporating not only animal prints but also hippie dresses, sand-blasted jeans, and denim patchwork into his collections. He even ventured into designing the Playboy Bunnies’ uniforms, infusing them with his signature leopard print.

When asked about his affinity for animal prints, Cavalli credited nature as his inspiration, marveling at the intricate patterns found in creatures like fish, snakes, and tigers. He regarded God as the ultimate designer and sought to emulate nature’s beauty in his creations.

Giorgio Armani, the founder of Armani, paid tribute to Cavalli’s distinctive style, describing him as a “true artist” whose “Tuscan verve” would be sorely missed. Armani praised Cavalli’s ability to translate fantasy into alluring garments, highlighting his mastery of prints and his boundless creativity.

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Russia Kazakhstan floods: High water levels swamp Orenburg houses

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Severe flooding has struck Orenburg, Russia, with water levels soaring two meters above critical levels, leaving rooftops barely visible. The mayor has urged residents to evacuate immediately as sirens blare throughout the city. The crisis is expected to worsen, extending to neighboring regions, including Kazakhstan, where 100,000 people have already been displaced.

This flood is deemed the worst in 80 years, triggered by rivers, notably the Ural, overflowing due to rapid snow and ice melt exacerbated by heavy rains. Orenburg, with a population of half a million, faces unprecedented evacuations and extensive property damage, while downstream areas like Orsk grapple with their own challenges following dam breaches.

Further east, rivers like the Ishim and Tobol are rising to perilous levels, with floodwaters threatening northern Kazakhstan and prompting evacuations. Efforts to reinforce dams and declare states of emergency in affected regions are underway, yet the scale of this disaster surpasses anything witnessed in recent memory.

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Polish MPs debate liberalising right to abortion on demand

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Poland’s MPs recently engaged in a significant debate over potentially granting women the right to abortion on demand, marking a departure from discussions of the sort in over three decades. Despite expectations of strong emotions given Poland’s devout Catholicism, the attendance was notably sparse, with many MPs from both the opposition and government failing to show up.

Although women constitute only 29% of the Sejm, the lower house of parliament, the majority of speakers in the debate were women. The discussion revolved around potentially liberalizing one of the EU’s strictest abortion laws, which currently permits the procedure only in cases of maternal health risk, rape, or incest.

While public opinion increasingly supports expanded abortion access, politicians have been hesitant to act. The previous Law and Justice-led government, supported by the Catholic Church, had actually tightened abortion restrictions in 2020, sparking widespread protests across the nation.

The ruling by the Constitutional Tribunal, which deemed abortion due to severe and irreversible fetal abnormalities unconstitutional, led to outrage and sustained demonstrations. Several women have died in hospitals since then, as doctors refused to perform necessary abortions, even when the mother’s life was at risk.

Outside the parliament, anti-abortion protesters expressed their views in stark terms, likening liberal ministers to Adolf Hitler and employing provocative imagery. Inside, MPs presented contrasting viewpoints, with some arguing for abortion as a woman’s right, while others contended that it’s not universally supported among Polish women.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk has committed to introducing abortion on demand, but his coalition government is divided over the extent of liberalization. Various proposals, ranging from abortion up to 12 weeks to decriminalization of abortion assistance, have been put forward by different factions within the coalition.

However, achieving consensus on this contentious issue won’t be easy, with opposition from conservative elements and the potential for a presidential veto by Andrzej Duda, who aligns with Catholic beliefs. Ultimately, the fate of these proposals remains uncertain pending further parliamentary deliberation and potential presidential intervention.

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France beefs up security as Paris Olympics approach

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Amid concerns over potential Islamic State (IS) threats to European sporting events, including a recent online warning, French authorities have intensified security measures in Paris. This move coincides with worries about the safety of upcoming events such as the Champions League quarter-final match and the impending Olympic Games.

While Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin acknowledged the elevated threat level, he also emphasized France’s experience in countering extremist activities, citing recent foiled attacks. Despite the heightened security, some fans remain undeterred, expressing a determination not to let fear dictate their lives.

Across Europe, governments are grappling with the growing threat posed by IS-K, particularly in light of the upcoming European Football Championship. Germany, in particular, has ramped up security measures, including border checks, amidst concerns over internal security.

Balancing security concerns with maintaining a sense of normalcy presents a challenge for France, especially with the Olympics fast approaching. While some voices caution against overreacting to IS threats, others stress the importance of not yielding to fear and maintaining public confidence.

France’s extensive experience with Islamist incidents has led to the deployment of significant security forces, including Operation Sentinelle and military personnel. Despite assurances from security officials, concerns persist, compounded by tensions with Russia and its alleged efforts to undermine French credibility through cyber campaigns.

President Macron has warned of Russia’s potential to disrupt the Olympics through various means, including cyber operations aimed at spreading misinformation. The French government has publicly denounced attempts to manipulate public opinion, attributing such actions to Kremlin-backed efforts to sow discord.

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EU approves major overhaul of migration rules

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After years of negotiations, the European Parliament has approved a significant reform aimed at tightening the EU’s migration and asylum regulations. The EU Asylum and Migration Pact, which has been in development since 2015, is set to become effective in two years’ time. Its objectives include expediting the asylum process, enhancing the repatriation of irregular migrants to their home countries, and establishing a system of shared responsibility among EU member states for asylum seekers.

Last year, there was a notable increase in illegal border crossings within the EU, prompting the need for such reforms. The pact, though met with some opposition from certain member states, is expected to gain full approval by the end of April through majority voting.

Under the proposed rules, EU countries will be obligated to either accept a quota of migrants from frontline countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain, or provide additional financial aid or resources. Additionally, the pact emphasizes swift processing of asylum claims, particularly those deemed to have low chances of approval, and aims to reach decisions within a maximum of 12 weeks. Forcible returns of rejected asylum seekers to their home countries would also need to occur within the same timeframe.

The pact introduces stricter pre-entry screening procedures within seven days of arrival, including biometric data collection for migrants aged six and above. It also establishes mechanisms to address sudden influxes of migrants.

The pact received support from the two main political groups in the European Parliament, although it faced opposition from some left-wing and far-right factions, as well as NGOs. Critics argue that the agreement may lead to increased suffering for asylum seekers, particularly those with low chances of acceptance, who might undergo processing on border islands or in detention facilities with limited access to fair procedures.

Despite its imperfections, many MEPs saw the pact as a workable compromise, acknowledging its significance in addressing the challenges of migration within the EU. However, concerns remain regarding the potential consequences of expedited processes and increased detention.

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European court rules human rights violated by climate inaction

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A group of elderly Swiss women have achieved a significant victory in the European Court of Human Rights, marking the first climate case success in the court’s history. These women, primarily in their 70s, emphasized their vulnerability to the impacts of heatwaves associated with climate change due to their age and gender.

The court criticized Switzerland for its insufficient efforts in meeting emission reduction goals, deeming them inadequate. This ruling holds significance as it’s the first time the court has addressed the issue of global warming.

Greta Thunberg, the Swedish activist, joined in the celebration with other activists at the court in Strasbourg. One of the leaders of the Swiss women, Rosemarie Wydler-Walti, expressed disbelief at the victory, highlighting its magnitude.

The court’s decision carries legal weight and could potentially influence legislation in 46 European countries, including the UK. It found Switzerland in breach of its duties under the Convention concerning climate change, noting deficiencies in the country’s climate policies, such as failure to quantify reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

The group of Swiss women, known as KlimaSeniorinnen or Senior Women for Climate Protection, argued that they faced health risks during heatwaves in Switzerland and were unable to leave their homes. Data showed that March of the same year marked the world’s warmest, continuing a trend of record-breaking temperatures.

However, the court dismissed similar cases brought by Portuguese youths and a former French mayor, who also claimed that European governments were not acting swiftly enough to address climate change, thus violating their rights.

Elisabeth Smart, a member of KlimaSeniorinnen at 76 years old, highlighted her lifelong observations of climate change in Switzerland, having grown up on a farm. Despite the nine-year commitment to the case, she emphasized the innate drive within some individuals to take action rather than remain passive.

While governments worldwide have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions significantly, experts and activists warn that progress remains slow, jeopardizing efforts to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C.

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