In a groundbreaking move, four Australian servicewomen have initiated a class action lawsuit against the Australian Defence Force (ADF), accusing it of systemic sexual abuse, harassment, and discrimination. The lawsuit, filed in the Federal Court on Friday, is expected to attract thousands of women who have served between November 12, 2003, and May 25, 2025. The plaintiffs, whose identities remain confidential for legal reasons, have detailed harrowing experiences, including being forcibly groped, waking up naked and bruised after social events, and enduring hostile, sexist remarks and unsolicited explicit content. One plaintiff, an air force member, recounted being told by her sergeant that women should not earn as much as men because they are ‘not as strong.’ Another, a navy recruit, described enduring lewd comments and unwanted physical advances, including being kissed against her will while on duty abroad. The lawsuit follows a major report last year that revealed approximately 800 sexual assault cases were reported within the ADF between 2019 and 2024, with an estimated 60% under-reporting rate. The report highlighted that sexual misconduct remains a pervasive issue, with female personnel often fearing sexual violence more than the dangers of war. Lawyers representing the plaintiffs, including Josh Aylward from JGA Saddler, emphasized that these women enlisted to serve their country, not to fend off harassment from their colleagues. The ADF has acknowledged the need for improvement, stating that all personnel deserve respect and a positive workplace experience. The case underscores the urgent need for systemic reform within the military to address sexual misconduct and ensure a safe environment for all service members.
作者： admin
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Finery and frailty: Africa’s top shots
This week, Africa showcased a tapestry of cultural, environmental, and political events, capturing the continent’s dynamic spirit. In South Africa, the Cape Town International Kite Festival drew crowds of enthusiasts to the beach, celebrating creativity and community. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, an environmental group organized a ‘Trashion Show’ in Lagos, blending fashion with sustainability as models strutted in outfits made from recycled materials. Algeria hosted the National Cultural Festival of Women’s Creativity in Algiers, where a Sahrawi woman proudly displayed her traditional jewelry, highlighting the richness of indigenous culture. In Madagascar, a rare short-legged ground roller was photographed feasting on a pimple-nose chameleon, a reminder of the island’s unique biodiversity. Cameroon’s Ruben Sodea impressed at the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Indonesia, vaulting into the air with precision and grace. Senegal’s annual canoe races off the coast of Dakar attracted cheering crowds, while Lagos’ vibrant nightlife came alive with cabaret performances in the Ikoyi neighborhood. Ivory Coast celebrated the Abissa festival in Grand-Bassam, where Nanan Awoulae Desire Amon Tanoe, king of the N’Zima people, made a grand entrance. In Italy, South Sudanese model-turned-actress Anyier Anei debuted in her film ‘Couture,’ starring alongside Angelina Jolie. Political tensions simmered in Ivory Coast as campaign billboards for former First Lady Simone Ehivet Gbagbo appeared ahead of the presidential election. In Tunisia, protesters in Gabes demanded the closure of a local chemical factory, citing health concerns. Cameroon saw opposition protesters barricade roads in Garoua, accusing the ruling party of election rigging. Amidst these events, Madagascar’s coastal city of Toliara offered a glimpse of everyday life as boys played with a mobile phone. From cultural celebrations to environmental activism and political unrest, Africa’s diverse stories continue to captivate the world.
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Conservation group rescues sea turtles caught in nets at Nigerian coastal city and rewards fishermen
In a heartwarming event at a private beach in Lagos, Nigeria, three endangered sea turtles were released back into the Atlantic Ocean, marking a significant victory for wildlife conservation in the region. The turtles, rescued from local fishermen weeks earlier, were rehabilitated by the Greenfingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative, a group dedicated to protecting Nigeria’s threatened wildlife. The release, which took place last weekend, was witnessed by conservationists, students, and onlookers who cheered as the turtles made their way back to their natural habitat.
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Why Assam still weeps for Zubeen Garg a month after his death
A month after the tragic death of Assamese cultural icon Zubeen Garg, the state of Assam continues to grieve deeply for its beloved artist. Zubeen, who passed away at the age of 52 in a drowning accident in Singapore, was cremated with full state honors on September 23 in Kamarkuchi, a small village near Guwahati. Since then, the cremation site has transformed into a pilgrimage spot, with thousands of mourners, spanning all ages and religions, visiting daily to pay their respects. The emotional outpouring has drawn global attention, with media giants like the BBC, Al Jazeera, and The Independent covering the collective grief of Assam. Zubeen’s influence extended far beyond his music. Known for his genre-defining compositions, he was also a fearless advocate for social and political causes, a philanthropist who donated generously to the poor, and a cultural ambassador who revitalized Assamese cinema. His death has united people across faiths, but it has also reignited political tensions in Assam. The state’s BJP government and opposition leaders are locked in a bitter feud over the investigation into his death, with allegations of negligence and political opportunism clouding the tragedy. Amid the turmoil, Zubeen’s legacy as a symbol of Assamese pride and humanity remains untarnished. His music, which blended traditional Assamese sounds with Western rhythms, provided hope during Assam’s darkest times in the 1990s, marked by violent separatist movements. Today, as Assam mourns, Zubeen’s life and work continue to inspire, reminding the world of the power of art and compassion.
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Japan’s new leader vows to further bolster defense buildup and spending as regional tensions rise
In her inaugural policy address, Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced a significant acceleration of the nation’s military expansion and spending. Takaichi, who assumed office earlier this week as Japan’s first female leader, emphasized the urgent need to revise the country’s security strategy ahead of schedule, citing escalating tensions with China, North Korea, and Russia. She pledged to achieve an annual military expenditure target of 2% of GDP by March, moving up the original 2027 deadline. The revised security strategy, now slated for completion by the end of 2026, reflects Japan’s response to the rapidly changing global security landscape, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and ongoing Middle East conflicts. Takaichi highlighted the destabilization of the international order due to shifting power dynamics and intensifying geopolitical rivalries, particularly in Japan’s vicinity. She underscored the necessity of proactive defense measures to counter military activities by neighboring nations. Her administration also faces the challenge of balancing domestic economic issues, such as rising prices and stagnant wages, with the need to secure opposition support for her policies. Additionally, Takaichi’s hawkish stance and historical views, including her visits to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, could strain Japan’s relations with China. Her government’s alignment with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party has further fueled concerns about Japan’s political shift to the right. On the economic front, Takaichi acknowledged the critical role of foreign workers in addressing Japan’s labor shortage but emphasized strict enforcement of regulations to address public concerns over unlawful activities by some foreigners. She tasked the Economic Security Minister with tightening regulations on foreign residents and studying potential restrictions on land purchases by non-Japanese nationals, particularly Chinese investors. This approach aligns with the growing populist sentiment in Japan, which has seen a surge in foreign workers amid a shrinking domestic workforce.
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How India women bounced back to keep the World Cup dream alive
In a thrilling turn of events, India’s women’s cricket team delivered a commanding performance to defeat New Zealand by 53 runs in a crucial ICC Women’s ODI World Cup match on Thursday night. The victory, achieved at Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium, secured India’s place in the semi-finals and marked a significant comeback after a series of disappointing losses earlier in the tournament. The match, attended by a record-breaking crowd of over 25,166 spectators, showcased India’s resilience and determination to overcome their recent struggles. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and rising star Pratika Agarwal set the tone with a stunning 212-run opening partnership, while Jemimah Rodrigues contributed an unbeaten half-century, propelling India to a record total of 340-3. New Zealand, despite a revised target of 325 due to rain interruptions, faltered under pressure, failing to match India’s intensity. This victory not only revitalized India’s campaign but also highlighted their potential to challenge the tournament’s top teams in the upcoming semi-finals. With Australia, England, and South Africa also advancing, India faces a daunting path to the title. However, the team’s renewed confidence and home support could prove decisive as they aim to break their World Cup jinx and claim their maiden championship.
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Who were Ireland’s former presidents?
As the Republic of Ireland gears up to elect its 10th president on Friday, the nation reflects on the legacy of its past leaders. The election sees Independent TD Catherine Connolly, supported by Sinn Féin and left-wing parties, pitted against Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys. This pivotal moment in Irish politics offers an opportunity to revisit the contributions of previous presidents who have shaped the nation’s history.
Douglas Hyde, Ireland’s first president (1938-1945), was a pivotal figure in the revival of the Irish language and culture. A co-founder of the Gaelic League and a renowned academic, Hyde’s inauguration marked a significant moment in Irish history, with crowds gathering in Dublin to honor his leadership.
Seán T Ó Ceallaigh, the second president, served two terms and played a crucial role in Ireland’s political evolution. A founder of Sinn Féin and a key figure in the 1916 Easter Rising, Ó Ceallaigh was instrumental in Ireland’s transition to a republic, signing the Republic of Ireland Act in 1948.
Eamon de Valera, born in New York, was a central figure in Ireland’s struggle for independence. A teacher, revolutionary, and founder of Fianna Fáil, de Valera served multiple terms as taoiseach before becoming president, leaving an indelible mark on Irish politics.
Erskine Childers, the fourth president, had a brief but impactful tenure. Born into a Protestant family in London, Childers’ presidency was marked by his commitment to public service and his father’s legacy of Irish nationalism.
Patrick Hillery, a medical doctor from County Clare, served two terms as president. His leadership came during a period of constitutional turmoil, and he emphasized the importance of the presidency in maintaining stability and continuity.
Mary Robinson, Ireland’s first female president, symbolized a new era of social change. A champion of women’s rights, Robinson’s election in 1990 marked a significant shift in Irish politics, paving the way for greater gender equality.
Mary McAleese, the first president from Northern Ireland, focused on reconciliation and building bridges between communities. Her presidency was highlighted by Queen Elizabeth’s historic visit to Ireland in 2011, a testament to the success of the peace process.
Michael D Higgins, the outgoing president, has been a vocal advocate for social justice and human rights. His two terms have been marked by his engagement with national and global issues, leaving a lasting impact on Irish society.
As Ireland prepares to welcome its 10th president, the nation looks forward to a new chapter in its political history, building on the foundations laid by its distinguished predecessors.
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Fatal bus blaze in India leaves 12 dead
A devastating bus fire in Andhra Pradesh, southern India, has resulted in the deaths of at least 12 people and left several others injured. The incident occurred early Friday morning when a bus collided with a motorcycle on a highway, causing the motorcycle to become trapped beneath the vehicle. The collision ruptured the bus’s fuel tank, leading to an explosion and rapid engulfment of the bus in flames. The bus, en route to Bangalore with approximately 40 passengers on board, was completely gutted by the time firefighters arrived at the scene. Eyewitnesses reported hearing passengers screaming for help as locals rushed to rescue survivors. Some passengers managed to escape through an emergency exit window, while the bus driver and cleaner fled the scene. Authorities have launched an investigation into potential fuel leakage and allegations of negligent driving. Most passengers, who had boarded the bus in Hyderabad, were asleep when the fire broke out. The motorcyclist involved in the collision was among the fatalities. Forensic teams have been dispatched to identify the bodies, with DNA tests likely required in some cases. Indian President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolences, calling the incident “unfortunate” and extending her sympathies to the bereaved families. This tragedy highlights ongoing safety concerns in India’s public transport system, where overcrowding and disregard for safety regulations are common. Road accidents remain a significant issue in the country, with speeding and reckless driving contributing to India’s status as having the highest number of road fatalities globally.
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What to know about Argentina’s midterm vote, a pivotal test for Trump ally President Milei
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — The upcoming midterm elections in Argentina have taken on heightened significance, as President Javier Milei faces mounting pressure from both domestic and international fronts. Initially perceived as a routine legislative vote, the election has now become a pivotal moment that could determine the future of Milei’s ambitious free-market reforms. The stakes were further escalated when former U.S. President Donald Trump linked financial aid to Argentina’s electoral outcome, adding a layer of geopolitical tension to the race.
Milei, a libertarian leader and close ally of Trump, came to power promising to dismantle Argentina’s entrenched political corruption and implement sweeping economic reforms. Early in his tenure, his policies delivered notable successes, including Argentina’s first fiscal surplus in nearly 15 years and a significant reduction in inflation. These achievements bolstered his popularity, allowing him to champion his anti-socialist agenda on the global stage, from Europe to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club.
However, Milei’s political fortunes have taken a sharp downturn in recent months. A series of scandals, including allegations of corruption involving his sister and the withdrawal of a key candidate linked to a U.S. drug trafficking case, have tarnished his image as a reformist outsider. Tactical missteps, such as failing to build coalitions and alienating potential allies, have further weakened his position. The opposition-dominated Congress has overturned his vetoes and passed spending measures, complicating his reform agenda.
As Argentines grapple with the harsh realities of austerity measures, public support for Milei has waned. His party’s recent electoral defeat in Buenos Aires province, home to 40% of the population, underscored this shift. The loss triggered a sell-off of Argentine bonds and the peso, prompting the U.S. to intervene with a $20 billion currency swap and promises of additional financial support. Yet, these measures have failed to stabilize the peso, which hit a record low against the dollar.
Trump’s conditional aid has sparked backlash both in Argentina and the U.S., with critics questioning the wisdom of propping up a nation with a history of defaults. In Argentina, the opposition Peronist party has seized on Trump’s remarks to rally voters against Milei, framing the election as a referendum on national sovereignty. As the country heads to the polls, the outcome will not only shape Milei’s political future but also test the resilience of his free-market experiment in a nation weary of economic instability.
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Bus catches fire after being hit by a motorcycle in southern India, killing at least 25
A tragic accident in southern India resulted in the deaths of at least 25 people after a passenger bus burst into flames following a collision with a motorcycle. The incident occurred early Friday near Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh, according to senior police official Vikrant Patil. The fire rapidly engulfed the bus, which was carrying 44 passengers traveling between Hyderabad in Telangana state and Bengaluru in Karnataka state. The motorcycle, which crashed into the bus from behind, became stuck and was dragged along the highway, generating sparks that ignited the bus’s fuel tank. Despite the driver’s attempts to extinguish the flames using a fire extinguisher, the fire was too intense to control. Many passengers were asleep at the time, and while some managed to escape through smashed windows, others were tragically trapped and killed. The motorcycle rider also perished in the accident. Forensic experts are investigating the cause of the fire. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed their condolences to the victims’ families. This marks the second fatal bus fire in India in less than two weeks, following a similar incident in Rajasthan earlier this month that claimed 20 lives.