Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Henan to build comprehensive cultural heritage database

    Henan to build comprehensive cultural heritage database

    In a significant move to safeguard its rich historical legacy, Henan province has unveiled plans to create a comprehensive provincial database cataloging its vast cultural heritage resources. The initiative was formally announced during the government work report presented this Monday at the opening ceremony of the fourth session of the 14th Henan Provincial People’s Congress.

    The ambitious project aims to systematically digitize and consolidate information on the region’s archaeological treasures and cultural relics. Beyond establishing the central database, the provincial strategy also includes supporting several cities within Henan in their quest to become national exemplars of cultural relic preservation and management.

    The government report highlighted notable cultural achievements from 2025 that underscore the province’s commitment to its historical legacy. These included the successful public opening of major new institutions such as the Yinxu Museum in Anyang and the Dahecun Site Museum in Zhengzhou, the provincial capital. The Dahecun Archaeological Site itself, located in Zhengzhou, represents a profoundly significant historical timeline, with artifacts dating from approximately 4800 BC to 1500 BC.

    Further demonstrating the economic power of cultural investment, the report celebrated the remarkable success of Henan’s culture-tourism integration initiative. This program proved to be a substantial driver for the local economy, attracting an unprecedented tally of over 1.1 billion tourist visits throughout the year. This massive influx of visitors translated into a staggering tourism revenue exceeding 1 trillion yuan (approximately $144 billion), solidifying the vital link between cultural preservation and economic prosperity.

  • Discovery through dialogue: Chinese and US students exchange ideas for the future

    Discovery through dialogue: Chinese and US students exchange ideas for the future

    In a groundbreaking cross-cultural exchange, Generation Z scholars from premier academic institutions in China and the United States recently convened for an unprecedented dialogue session. The event, documented on January 29, 2026, revealed remarkable insights into how young leaders from the world’s two largest economies perceive one another and envision collaborative futures.

    The gathering brought together students representing elite universities from both nations, creating a dynamic forum for cultural and intellectual exchange. What began as casual conversations about daily life rapidly evolved into profound discussions about global challenges and opportunities. Participants demonstrated exceptional ability to transcend cultural barriers, finding common ground in their aspirations for technological advancement, environmental sustainability, and global cooperation.

    Surprising commonalities emerged throughout the hours-long dialogue, particularly regarding digital innovation and climate action. The students identified parallel concerns about artificial intelligence ethics, renewable energy transition, and inclusive economic development. Their discussions revealed a shared commitment to building bridges rather than barriers, with many participants expressing frustration with geopolitical tensions that don’t reflect their generation’s desire for collaboration.

    The exchange demonstrated that despite different cultural backgrounds and educational systems, these future leaders maintain remarkably aligned visions for international cooperation. Their conversations progressed from initial cultural observations to substantive policy discussions, ultimately culminating in a collective blueprint for US-China collaboration on youth-led initiatives. The dialogue proved particularly significant given ongoing diplomatic challenges between the two nations, showing that next-generation leaders are already developing the relational foundations for future cooperation.

  • Legal setbacks against a dam in the Amazon raise questions about Brazil’s reliance on hydropower

    Legal setbacks against a dam in the Amazon raise questions about Brazil’s reliance on hydropower

    A decade after commencing operations, Brazil’s Belo Monte hydroelectric facility—ranking among the world’s largest hydropower plants—stands at the center of mounting legal challenges and environmental controversies. Brazilian courts have determined that the project has failed to uphold its fundamental commitment to protect local ecosystems and Indigenous communities along the Xingu River, despite explicit conditions set during its approval process.

    Originally conceived during Brazil’s military dictatorship in the 1970s, the Belo Monte project gained momentum during President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s second term, eventually becoming operational in 2016. The facility was engineered with a unique design intended to minimize reservoir size and avoid flooding surrounding areas, currently supplying approximately 10% of Brazil’s electricity needs.

    However, recent judicial findings reveal the project’s environmental and social impacts have substantially exceeded initial projections. The Brazilian Supreme Court has ordered the federal government to provide 19 million reais ($3.6 million) in compensation to affected Indigenous communities. Separate rulings have compelled Norte Energia, the dam’s operator, to provide clean water to communities whose natural water sources have depleted and to reassess water diversion practices that could potentially reduce power generation capacity.

    Indigenous communities, particularly the Juruna people, report catastrophic ecological consequences since the dam’s activation. They describe massive fish die-offs, severely restricted river navigation, and fundamental disruptions to their traditional way of life. Their diet has shifted from protein-rich fish to processed foods, while psychological trauma has become widespread among community members.

    Scientific monitoring conducted through an innovative partnership between Indigenous groups and Brazilian research institutions has documented these impacts systematically. Daily data collection on water levels, groundwater conditions, and fish populations has provided crucial evidence demonstrating that Belo Monte’s effects far exceed what Norte Energia originally acknowledged.

    The controversy emerges as Brazil implements new legislation that will streamline approval processes for strategic infrastructure projects, reducing licensing timelines from 6-7 years to just 12 months. Environmental experts warn this accelerated approach may lead to reduced scrutiny of social and environmental impacts, potentially repeating Belo Monte’s problematic pattern across future developments.

    Energy security concerns complicate the situation, as Norte Energia contends that court-ordered modifications to water management could increase electricity prices and force greater reliance on carbon-intensive thermal power plants. Meanwhile, climate change intensifies the challenges, with worsening droughts already reducing the dam’s operational efficiency.

    Environmental advocates emphasize that Belo Monte represents a critical test case for Brazil’s infrastructure development approach in an era of climate change. They argue that true climate leadership requires not only deforestation control but also responsible infrastructure planning that rigorously addresses social and environmental consequences.

  • ‘I was certain I would die’: Man who visited every country without flying arrives in UAE

    ‘I was certain I would die’: Man who visited every country without flying arrives in UAE

    Danish explorer Thor Pedersen has achieved what no human in history has accomplished: visiting all 203 recognized countries entirely without aerial transportation. His extraordinary journey, which consumed nearly a decade of his life, culminated with his recent appearance at the Emirates Literature Festival in Dubai, where he shared the profound experiences that transformed his perspective on humanity and survival.

    Pedersen’s initial four-year projection stretched into an epic nine-year, nine-month, and sixteen-day odyssey that tested his physical and psychological limits. The adventurer confronted multiple life-threatening situations, including armed confrontations in Central Africa, battles with cerebral malaria, and maritime disasters that claimed lives. His remarkable resilience was matched only by the unexpected kindness of strangers who offered shelter and assistance throughout his travels.

    The global COVID-19 pandemic presented perhaps the most unexpected challenge, stranding Pedersen in Hong Kong for over two years when he was merely nine countries from completion. This forced hiatus, however, led to an unconventional romantic chapter: he married his fiancée Le via online ceremony while separated by continents, followed by two additional weddings to satisfy international legal requirements.

    Financed through a combination of personal savings, sponsorships, and crowdfunding, Pedersen maintained an astonishing daily budget of approximately $20 (AED 74) to cover transportation, accommodation, meals, and visa expenses. His approach emphasized slow, ground-level travel that fostered genuine cultural immersion and human connections impossible to achieve through conventional tourism.

    During his Dubai visit, Pedersen reflected on the city’s significance in his journey, noting how Emirati authorities facilitated previously impossible visa acquisitions that allowed his mission to continue. Now a father and published author, he seeks to translate his bestselling travel memoir into Arabic to share his unique perspective on Middle Eastern hospitality and cultural richness.

  • Stirring the wok: a Black chef’s journey into Chinese cuisine

    Stirring the wok: a Black chef’s journey into Chinese cuisine

    In an inspiring culinary journey that transcends cultural boundaries, Chef Kurt Evans is revolutionizing Chinese cuisine from his Philadelphia kitchen. Defying conventional expectations, the African-American chef has assumed leadership of a Chinese restaurant, creating a unique fusion that honors both traditions while building bridges between communities.

    Evans’ approach represents a radical departure from traditional Chinese cooking techniques. He masterfully incorporates ingredients reflective of his own heritage into classic Chinese dishes, creating innovative flavor profiles that speak to both cultures. His culinary philosophy centers on food as a powerful medium for connection—transforming each meal into a conversation starter and celebration of shared human experiences.

    From the vibrant streets of Philadelphia to the intense heat of the wok, Evans has developed a distinctive cooking style that respects Chinese culinary traditions while fearlessly innovating. His restaurant has become more than just a dining establishment; it serves as a cultural meeting point where diverse communities converge through their shared appreciation for transformed familiar dishes.

    This groundbreaking culinary venture challenges industry norms and demonstrates how food can break down cultural barriers. Evans’ journey from traditional cooking to leading a Chinese kitchen showcases how personal heritage and professional expertise can blend to create something entirely new and meaningful in the culinary landscape.

  • 11 dead in South Africa minibus and truck collision days after similar crash killed 14 children

    11 dead in South Africa minibus and truck collision days after similar crash killed 14 children

    South African authorities are confronting a severe road safety emergency following another catastrophic collision that resulted in multiple fatalities. On Thursday, a head-on impact between a minibus taxi and a truck near Durban in KwaZulu-Natal province claimed at least 11 lives, including one schoolchild, with several others sustaining critical injuries.

    According to provincial transport official Siboniso Duma, preliminary investigations suggest the truck driver attempted an illegal U-turn, leading to the direct collision. Garrith Jamieson of ALS Paramedics confirmed the devastating toll, noting that the minibus driver remained trapped within the wreckage during rescue operations.

    This tragedy occurs barely a week after another horrific crash involving a school transport minibus and truck near Johannesburg killed 14 children on January 19. The 22-year-old minibus driver from that incident faces upgraded murder charges after prosecutors alleged reckless overtaking maneuvers caused the fatal collision.

    Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has expressed profound concern over the escalating pattern of public transportation fatalities. She has mandated the Road Traffic Management Corporation to collaborate with local authorities and deliver a preliminary investigation report within 48 hours.

    Minibus taxis serve as primary transportation for approximately 70% of South African commuters. The nation’s road safety challenges reflect broader continental issues, with Africa experiencing disproportionately high traffic fatality rates despite minimal vehicle ownership. According to UN data, the continent records 26.6 road deaths per 100,000 people—significantly exceeding the global average of 18—accounting for approximately 300,000 annual fatalities despite representing only 3% of the world’s vehicle population.

  • Man dies in crash near Irish border

    Man dies in crash near Irish border

    A fatal single-vehicle collision near the Irish border has claimed the life of a man in his 30s, with Irish police launching a witness appeal following the Wednesday evening incident.

    The tragedy occurred at approximately 19:30 local time along the Inishammon roadway connecting Monaghan town and Rosslea, County Fermanagh. According to Gardaí authorities, the victim was traveling alone when the crash occurred, resulting in immediate fatality at the scene.

    Preliminary investigations indicate no other vehicles were involved in the incident, though the precise circumstances leading to the collision remain under active investigation. The victim’s body has been transported to Our Lady’s Hospital in Navan, County Meath, where post-mortem examinations will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

    The roadway remains closed as forensic collision investigators continue their examination of the scene. Gardaí have issued a public appeal for any witnesses or individuals with relevant information to come forward, particularly those who may have traveled the route around the time of the incident or possess dash-cam footage that could assist the investigation.

    The border region community has been deeply affected by the tragedy, with local representatives expressing condolences to the victim’s family and urging motorists to exercise caution on the route, which has seen previous safety concerns raised by residents.

  • Will Ramadan’s shorter working days affect UAE employees’ productivity?

    Will Ramadan’s shorter working days affect UAE employees’ productivity?

    As Ramadan approaches in the UAE, the annual reduction of working hours by two hours daily for private sector employees has sparked discussions about workplace productivity during the holy month. While the shortened schedule presents operational challenges, human resources experts and organizational behavior specialists suggest this period may actually enhance focus and efficiency rather than diminish output.

    The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization has historically implemented reduced working hours and flexible arrangements across both public and private sectors to accommodate those observing the fast. According to Ussama Khan, Assistant Professor of Organisational Behaviour at London Business School, the initial days of Ramadan typically require an adjustment period as individuals adapt to altered sleep patterns, meal timings, and hydration schedules. This transition phase, while potentially affecting concentration temporarily, typically gives way to stabilized energy levels thereafter.

    Research from the American Psychological Association and National Library of Medicine indicates fasting does not necessarily impair cognitive function. Studies on intermittent fasting patterns reveal the brain maintains normal operation and can even demonstrate heightened alertness during fasting periods. Khan notes that while comprehensive productivity metrics are limited, qualitative evidence suggests reduced hours may actually enhance focus and effectiveness for many workers.

    The impact varies significantly between white-collar knowledge workers and blue-collar manual laborers. For office-based professionals whose productivity relies on cognitive energy, reduced hours can prove beneficial by encouraging task prioritization and eliminating non-essential activities. Conversely, manual workers depending on physical stamina face greater challenges without the extensive support systems available to professional athletes.

    Jessie Quintilla, People and Culture Director at LINKVIVA, emphasizes that reduced hours coupled with smarter working methods—such as protected focus time, efficient meetings, and outcome-based measurement—can actually boost engagement. The condensed schedule encourages better planning, stronger collaboration, and healthier work-life boundaries throughout organizations.

    Beyond legal compliance, these Ramadan adjustments represent practical measures to protect wellbeing, strengthen social cohesion across the UAE’s diverse workforce, and maintain sustainable productivity throughout the holy month.

  • Mount Qomolangma scenic area closes due to heavy snowfall

    Mount Qomolangma scenic area closes due to heavy snowfall

    Authorities in Tibet Autonomous Region have implemented an immediate closure of the Mount Qomolangma (Everest) scenic area following severe winter weather conditions that have rendered access roads hazardous. The decision was announced Wednesday by the Dingri County Culture and Tourism Bureau after substantial snow accumulation created dangerous driving conditions throughout the region.

    The closure, effective from 3:30 pm local time on January 28, 2026, comes as meteorological authorities issued warnings for continued heavy precipitation across southern Tibet. The National Meteorological Center has forecasted particularly severe conditions along the southwestern mountainous regions, where blizzard conditions are expected to develop.

    Tourism officials confirmed that maintenance crews are actively working to clear impacted roadways and restore safe passage. While no specific reopening timeline has been established, authorities have committed to providing updates as weather conditions improve and safety can be assured. The scenic area management emphasizes that visitor safety remains their paramount concern during these adverse weather events.

    Mount Qomolangma, standing at 8,848.86 meters above sea level, represents one of Tibet’s most significant tourist attractions, typically drawing thousands of visitors annually. This temporary closure demonstrates the ongoing challenges of maintaining accessibility to high-altitude destinations during extreme weather conditions, particularly in winter months when snowfall intensifies.

  • Thai Air Force says 2 pilots killed in plane crash during training mission

    Thai Air Force says 2 pilots killed in plane crash during training mission

    A Thai Air Force training exercise culminated in a fatal incident on Thursday when an AT-6TH Wolverine light attack and reconnaissance aircraft crashed in a designated military zone. The accident occurred in the Chom Thong district, approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Chiang Mai’s main airport, resulting in the tragic loss of both pilots aboard.

    Air Marshal Jackkrit Thammavichai, acting as spokesperson, confirmed the devastating outcome of the mission. The two-seater turboprop plane, manufactured by U.S.-based Beechcraft, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation, was engaged in a routine training operation at the time of the incident. Authorities have immediately launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the precise cause of the crash, examining all potential technical, environmental, and operational factors.

    This tragedy strikes shortly after the Thai Air Force bolstered its aerial capabilities with the acquisition of these advanced fighter-trainer aircraft. The commission of its fleet of eight AT-6TH Wolverines was only finalized in September, marking a significant modernization effort for the nation’s military aviation division. The incident represents a considerable setback and has cast a somber shadow over the force, prompting a likely review of training protocols and aircraft safety measures.