Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Hollywood stars Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo recognized in New Year’s honor’s list

    Hollywood stars Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo recognized in New Year’s honor’s list

    LONDON — King Charles III has unveiled his New Year’s Honours List, recognizing an extraordinary array of British citizens for their exceptional contributions to national life. The annual tradition, which dates back to medieval monarchical practices, this year celebrates everyone from entertainment luminaries to centenarian community heroes.

    Among the most distinguished honorees, acclaimed actor Idris Elba received knighthood for his philanthropic work with youth through the Elba Hope Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife Sabrina to combat knife crime, educational disparities, and poverty. The star of ‘The Wire’ and numerous blockbuster films accepted the honor as a tribute to the young people his foundation serves, emphasizing the collective responsibility to provide alternatives to violence.

    Olympic history was also celebrated as ice dancing legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean received damehood and knighthood respectively, commemorating their iconic gold medal performance at the 1984 Sarajevo Winter Olympics that captivated the nation.

    The honors extended to Broadway and West End star Cynthia Erivo, recognized as a Member of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to music and drama, particularly as she prepares for her role in the upcoming ‘Wicked’ film adaptation.

    Remarkably, 102-year-old John Hearn, internationally recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest active judo instructor, received the British Empire Medal for his lifelong dedication to martial arts education.

    The list further honored author and comedian Richard Osman (OBE) for his literary contributions, retired marathon champion Paula Radcliffe (OBE) for services to athletics, and 101-year-old D-Day veteran Mervyn Kersh (BEM) for his educational work on Holocaust remembrance and wartime history.

    The modern honors system, which evolved from medieval monarchs granting land and titles to crown servants, now recognizes achievements across government, academia, arts, and sports. While often highlighting prominent figures, the system consistently honors librarians, charity workers, and civil servants who serve their communities without expectation of recognition. This year’s list comprises 1,150 recipients across various honor tiers, from knighthoods and damehoods to the Order of the British Empire’s CBE, OBE, and MBE distinctions.

  • UAE issues first-of-its-kind federal decree law on national education curriculum

    UAE issues first-of-its-kind federal decree law on national education curriculum

    The United Arab Emirates has enacted a groundbreaking federal decree law establishing comprehensive legal governance for its national education curriculum. This landmark legislation, applicable to all public and private educational institutions from kindergarten through twelfth grade, creates a unified framework for curriculum design, approval processes, implementation protocols, and systematic review mechanisms.

    The National Education Charter serves as the supreme reference document, articulating national educational objectives, graduate attributes, cultural identity, core values, and targeted competencies. This charter provides definitive guidance for curriculum development, encompassing learning standards, educational outcomes, instructional methodologies, academic pathways, language of instruction, duration requirements, and subject-specific content.

    A distinctive feature of the legislation is its four-tier classification system for curriculum modifications. Major changes requiring foundational alterations must obtain approval from the Education, Human Resources, and Community Development Council followed by ratification from the Council of Ministers, accompanied by pilot programs and comprehensive evaluations. Partial adjustments within specific subjects receive authorization from the Education Council, while technical improvements concerning clarity and presentation fall under Ministry of Education jurisdiction. The framework additionally accommodates exceptional changes during national or global emergencies through Education Council approval.

    The decree encourages curriculum development proposals from government entities, private organizations, and non-profit institutions including those within free zones. Submission requirements include detailed studies demonstrating alignment with national education objectives, labor market demands, cultural identity preservation, and societal values.

    Educational institutions bear implementation responsibilities including participation in pilot programs, feedback collection, and observation reporting to the Ministry. Local authorities oversee private school compliance while the National Centre for Education Quality conducts impact assessments and reports to relevant governing bodies.

    This legislative milestone ensures curriculum consistency and stability while maintaining adaptability to evolving economic needs and global educational standards, representing the UAE’s commitment to creating a future-ready education system.

  • UAE weather tomorrow: Rains expected as temperature drops across emirates

    UAE weather tomorrow: Rains expected as temperature drops across emirates

    Meteorological authorities in the United Arab Emirates have issued a comprehensive weather advisory forecasting significant environmental changes across the emirates. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) anticipates partly to fully overcast conditions throughout Tuesday, with precipitation expected across northern and eastern regions. This weather pattern brings notable temperature declines, with internal and northern territories potentially experiencing lows of 11°C while coastal cities maintain milder conditions between 19°C and 25°C.

    The developing weather system will generate northwesterly winds reaching velocities between 15-30 km/h, with occasional gusts peaking at 60 km/h. These atmospheric conditions will trigger substantial dust mobilization across terrestrial areas, significantly impairing horizontal visibility and creating potentially hazardous travel conditions. Maritime operations face particular challenges as the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea are forecast to experience rough to very rough sea states, advising extreme caution for marine activities.

    This meteorological development represents a characteristic seasonal transition period for the region, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for reduced visibility on roadways and potential respiratory concerns due to airborne particulates. The temperature differential between coastal and inland areas highlights the diverse microclimates existing within the UAE’s geographical landscape during winter months.

  • Dubai announces free public parking for New Year 2026

    Dubai announces free public parking for New Year 2026

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled comprehensive transportation arrangements for the 2026 New Year period, headlined by complimentary public parking across most zones. The initiative grants motorists free parking access on January 1, 2026, excluding multi-storey parking facilities and the specific Al Khail Gate (N-365) area. Normal parking charges will resume on Friday, January 2.

    The announcement, made on December 29, 2025, forms part of a broader package of holiday service adjustments. In a significant operational enhancement, both Red and Green Line Dubai Metro services will operate continuously for approximately 43 hours to accommodate revelers. This uninterrupted service will run from 5:00 AM on December 31, 2025, through midnight on January 1, 2026.

    Complementing the metro extension, Dubai Tram services will extend operations until 1:00 AM on New Year’s Day. Intercity bus routes undergo temporary modifications, with Route E100 from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station ceasing operations from the afternoon of December 31. The final departures are scheduled for 12:00 noon from Abu Dhabi and 2:00 PM from Al Ghubaiba, with services remaining suspended until January 4, 2026. Alternative routes E101 and E102 from Ibn Battuta Bus Station will provide connectivity to Abu Dhabi during this period.

    Administrative facilities including all RTA Customer Happiness Centres and vehicle testing centers will remain closed on January 1, though smart customer service areas at Al Barsha, Al Twar, Al Kifaf, and RTA headquarters will maintain 24-hour operations throughout the holiday period.

  • Education, job skills: New rehab initiative in RAK gives inmates shot at life after prison

    Education, job skills: New rehab initiative in RAK gives inmates shot at life after prison

    Ras Al Khaimah has introduced a groundbreaking rehabilitation initiative designed to equip inmates with essential skills for successful societal reintegration. Launched at the Ras Al Khaimah Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility, this comprehensive program combines educational development, vocational training, and psychological support to address the root causes of criminal behavior.

    The Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research (AQF) developed this evidence-based initiative aligned with international correctional best practices. The program employs a data-driven assessment model where participants undergo thorough evaluations measuring literacy, numeracy, language proficiency, life skills, and psychological well-being. These assessments inform personalized rehabilitation pathways tailored to individual needs.

    Structured around three core pillars, the program first focuses on foundational education and life skills enhancement. The second pillar provides accredited vocational training through partnerships with Lootah Technical Center and Spearhead Training, delivering job-ready skills to improve employability. The third component offers psychological support through professional counseling and behavioral therapy services provided by specialized organizations including Erada Rehabilitation Center.

    Dr. Natasha Ridge, Executive Director of AQF, emphasized that the initiative represents a long-term investment in social stability. ‘Effective rehabilitation begins with understanding individual needs,’ she stated. ‘Delivering education and training within correctional settings provides inmates with genuine opportunities to rebuild their lives.’

    Colonel Thiab Al Harash, Director of the Correctional Facility, noted the program strengthens the institution’s rehabilitative mission by creating an environment that encourages personal responsibility and positive behavioral change. The program will run through 2027 with structured evaluations conducted after each cycle to measure educational, psychological, and social outcomes, potentially serving as a replicable model for broader application across the UAE.

  • Peruvian shamans predict Maduro’s fall, continued global conflicts in 2026

    Peruvian shamans predict Maduro’s fall, continued global conflicts in 2026

    High above Lima, Peru, a gathering of traditional shamans convened on the sacred San Cristobal hill Monday to perform their annual divination ceremony, offering prophetic insights into global affairs for the coming year. Clad in colorful Andean ponchos and ceremonial headdresses, the spiritual practitioners conducted ancient rituals that blended indigenous traditions with contemporary geopolitical forecasting.

    The shamans delivered several striking predictions during the heightened spiritual state achieved through ceremonial consumption of plant-based hallucinogens, including Ayahuasca and San Pedro cactus extracts. Their foremost prophecy indicated Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro would face removal from office, with shaman Ana María Simeón specifically referencing potential involvement from former U.S. President Donald Trump in this political transition.

    Beyond Venezuelan politics, the seers forecast continued international conflicts, particularly emphasizing the ongoing warfare between Ukraine and Russia. The ceremony also included appeals for Middle Eastern peace and addressed concerns about natural disasters, including seismic events and extreme climatic phenomena.

    The historical accuracy of these annual predictions presents a complex picture. While last year’s warning of nuclear conflict between Israel and Gaza failed to materialize, the group correctly anticipated the December 2024 passing of imprisoned former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who died from cancer at age 86.

    The ritual itself incorporated traditional elements including ceremonial blankets adorned with yellow flowers, ritualistic placement of coca leaves, symbolic swords, and other sacred objects. Participants engaged in circular dances accompanied by ancestral musical instruments, creating an atmosphere believed to channel positive energy and influence global decision-making among world leaders.

  • Fireworks from home: Dubai residents turn rooftops into New Year’s Eve front-row seats

    Fireworks from home: Dubai residents turn rooftops into New Year’s Eve front-row seats

    As Dubai prepares for its spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks displays, a growing number of residents are transforming their residential rooftops into premium viewing platforms, creating intimate alternatives to crowded public spaces. This emerging tradition represents a significant shift in how urban communities experience major celebrations, prioritizing personal connection over public spectacle.

    Across Dubai’s distinctive skyline, families are establishing multi-year traditions of gathering on their rooftops to witness the city’s world-renowned pyrotechnic shows. Salma Alflasi, a resident residing near the iconic Burj Al Arab, describes how her family’s rooftop has become the ceremonial heart of their annual celebrations. “The decision to celebrate elevated above the city combines both geographical advantage and emotional significance,” Alflasi explained. “While the view is undoubtedly spectacular, the true magic lies in sharing this experience with loved ones in a comfortable, personal space.”

    The appeal of rooftop celebrations extends beyond convenience to encompass deeper values of intimacy and tranquility. Many residents report that these private gatherings provide a sense of calm and genuine connection that crowded public events cannot replicate. The absence of traffic congestion, lengthy waits, and overwhelming crowds allows families to fully immerse themselves in the moment, creating meaningful traditions that prioritize togetherness over spectacle.

    In neighborhoods like Al Quoz, residents are discovering that their rooftops offer unexpectedly comprehensive views of multiple fireworks displays. Shan Mohammed describes experiencing 360-degree panoramas that simultaneously capture pyrotechnic shows from Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and other locations. “We stand at the center of our rooftop and slowly rotate as the entire sky illuminates with synchronized celebrations,” Mohammed noted. “The experience transforms our personal space into the most exclusive viewing gallery in the city.”

    This trend reflects broader shifts in urban celebration culture, where residents are increasingly curating personalized experiences that blend comfort, connection, and breathtaking visuals. The rooftop phenomenon demonstrates how cities can celebrate collectively while maintaining individual traditions, creating layered experiences that accommodate both massive public displays and intimate private gatherings.

    The emotional resonance of these rooftop celebrations extends beyond the visual spectacle. Participants describe creating profound memories through shared anticipation, uninterrupted conversation, and the spontaneous joy of witnessing the city’s transformation at midnight. For many, these elevated gatherings have become essential rituals that mark both personal and collective renewal, blending the grandeur of urban spectacle with the warmth of family tradition.

  • Watch: Heavy rains lash UAE, turn desert roads into rivers

    Watch: Heavy rains lash UAE, turn desert roads into rivers

    The United Arab Emirates witnessed extraordinary meteorological phenomena as intense rainfall transformed arid landscapes into temporary waterways on December 29, 2025. Northern emirates including Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah bore the brunt of this unusual weather event, with substantial precipitation creating challenging conditions for residents and motorists alike.

    The National Centre of Meteorology had previously forecasted this precipitation pattern, attributing the development to a low-pressure system positioned above the nation from December 25 through 29. While initial predictions suggested predominantly light showers, the northern territories experienced significantly heavier downpours than anticipated.

    Visual evidence circulating across digital platforms captured the dramatic transformation of desert thoroughfares into flowing channels, with vehicles navigating through unexpectedly deep floodwaters. The continuous rainfall throughout the afternoon period resulted in substantial accumulation, particularly affecting infrastructure in elevated and mountainous regions.

    Meteorological authorities reiterated crucial safety protocols during such weather events, emphasizing the importance of avoiding wadis and mountain passages that become particularly hazardous during precipitation episodes. The NCM further advised heightened vigilance for motorists, recommending reduced speeds and increased following distances during adverse driving conditions.

    This weather occurrence represents a notable deviation from the UAE’s typically arid climate patterns, demonstrating the increasing variability of regional weather systems and their potential impact on infrastructure and daily life in the Gulf region.

  • Bondi victims’ families demand national probe into antisemitism

    Bondi victims’ families demand national probe into antisemitism

    Families of the Bondi Beach massacre victims have issued a forceful demand for a comprehensive national investigation into Australia’s antisemitism crisis and systemic security failures. The appeal comes exactly two weeks after the December 14th terrorist attack that claimed 15 lives during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney.

    Seventeen grieving families collectively addressed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese through an open letter, insisting on the immediate establishment of a Commonwealth Royal Commission. They seek examination of critical breakdowns in law enforcement, intelligence operations, and policy frameworks that enabled the deadly assault. The perpetrators, identified as father-son duo Sajid and Naveed Akram, specifically targeted the Jewish community event, leaving dozens wounded in what authorities have classified as an antisemitic terrorist act.

    The families articulated their demand with emotional intensity: “We need to know why clear warning signs were ignored, how antisemitic hatred and Islamic extremism were allowed to dangerously grow unchecked, and what changes must be made to protect all Australians going forward.” They emphasized that their lost loved ones—parents, spouses, children, and grandparents—were celebrating the festival of light and joy in a public space that should have guaranteed safety.

    Prime Minister Albanese has maintained resistance to federal-level inquiries, advocating instead for immediate action rather than “years for answers.” He expressed profound sympathy for the families while emphasizing his priority to “build unity and social cohesion” during this challenging period. The government has proposed a state-level royal commission led by New South Wales, where the tragedy occurred, alongside potential reforms to firearm regulations and hate speech laws.

    Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke reinforced the administration’s position, warning that a national commission could inadvertently platform extremist voices and revisit traumatic antisemitic incidents from recent years—a move he deemed counterproductive to national unity and security.

    The victims’ families, supported by prominent Jewish community leaders and legal experts, dismissed these responses as insufficient. Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, asserted that only a royal commission possesses the necessary coercive powers to uncover the truth and implement preventive measures. The families concluded their plea with a powerful statement: “You owe us answers. You owe us accountability. And you owe Australians the truth.”

    Regarding the perpetrators, 50-year-old Sajid Akram—an Indian national who entered Australia on a 1998 visa—was fatally shot by police during the attack. His Australian-born son Naveed, 24, remains in custody facing multiple charges including terrorism, 15 counts of murder, and planting an explosive device with intent to harm. He has not yet entered a formal plea.

  • Missing Texas teen believed to be in ‘imminent danger’

    Missing Texas teen believed to be in ‘imminent danger’

    A comprehensive multi-agency search operation continues in Bexar County, Texas for 19-year-old Camila ‘Cami’ Mendoza Olmos, who vanished under mysterious circumstances during her routine morning walk on Christmas Eve. Law enforcement authorities have expressed serious concerns about her immediate safety, suggesting she could be facing ‘imminent danger’ with potential scenarios including kidnapping, human trafficking, or voluntary disappearance.

    The disappearance has triggered an extensive response involving local deputies, specialized investigators, search-and-rescue teams, aerial drones, and cadaver dogs. The FBI has joined the investigation, providing additional resources to local authorities. Despite nearly a week of intensive searching, investigators have uncovered minimal evidence beyond a single surveillance video showing a woman matching Mendoza Olmos’s description searching through her vehicle trunk before apparently departing on foot.

    Notably, the young woman left behind critical personal items including her mobile phone, raising additional concerns among investigators. Only her car keys and possibly her driver’s license were with her at the time of disappearance. Sheriff Javier Salazar confirmed that immigration authorities have no record of detaining Mendoza Olmos, eliminating one potential explanation for her absence.

    The case has drawn emotional responses from family members, with her aunt Nancy Olmos making public appeals on social media: ‘Cami needs us. By the grace of Jesus Christ, we will find you, Cami.’ The investigation remains active with authorities pursuing all possible leads, including the possibility that the case might extend beyond national borders.