What are the Taliban doing at COP29?
The fundamentalist group is attending the summit for the first time since its violent return to power in 2021. Though objections have been raised, poverty-stricken Afghanistan is ranked as one of the most vulnerable countries to the climate crisis and it’s for this reason that hosts in Azerbaijan extended...
Current in People
Breaking down intersex variations in human biology
Recent studies indicate that intersex variations are as common as red hair, affecting approximately 1.7% of the global population. Public awareness about this facet of human biology remains limited however, highlighting the need for improved education and acceptance across the board. ‘Intersex’ is an umbrella term that encompasses a wide...
A look at the NHS Smoking, Drinking, and Drug use amongst young people survey
The newest NHS Smoking, Drinking and Drug use amongst young people in England has been published, highlighting growing trends from secondary school students in England. The NHS Smoking, Drinking, and Drug use survey amongst young people in England is monumental in highlighting the changing trends amongst secondary school students from...
The silent crisis of obstetric violence in Indian hospitals
In maternity wards across India, a disturbing pattern of mistreatment and disrespect towards pregnant women has emerged. While government initiatives aim to promote hospital births, this raises questions about women’s safety and the quality of care in these environments. Though relatively new to India, a silent crisis of obstetric...
An Iranian female student becomes new symbol of resistance
Most Iranians have had enough of mandatory hijab enforcement. A video released on Saturday has gone viral, capturing global attention, and spotlighting the situation in Iran. As Iranian women continue to fight for their rights and autonomy — especially since the death of Mahsa Amini on September 16, 2022 —...
Death of Ella Kissi-Debrah leads to government settlement
As the first person to have air pollution linked to their death, Kiss-Debrah’s death marks a turning point for greener legislation. In a landmark decision, the UK government has agreed to compensate Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, mother of Ella Kissi-Debrah, who died after a fatal asthma attack in 2013. Ella’s death certificate, for...
Opinion – we need to hear Afghan women’s voices now
Taliban de facto authorities have established a new ban, preventing women from hearing other women's voices. At the end of August, the Taliban introduced the Virtue and Vice law, imposing strict regulations on everyday life in Afghanistan, from transportation to personal celebrations and basic freedoms. Article 13, in particular, drew international condemnation for its restrictive measures on women. It forbids them from making eye contact with men outside their family...
A guide on how to waste less this Halloween
The scariest thing about spooky season might just be its impact on the planet. It’s that time of year again – the air is crisp and the days are shorter, signalling a return to Halloween’s many rituals: pumpkin carving, costume shopping, and houses haunted by single-use plastic. While Halloween may have a knack for seasonal delight, it also leaves behind a rather sinister legacy: a staggering 83% of Halloween costumes are made...
Emergency contraception could be banned in India
Regulatory bodies are considering restricting access to over-the-counter morning after pills. This has sparked a debate about women’s reproductive rights and public health priorities. India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is currently considering banning the sale of over-the-counter emergency contraception, particularly that which contains Levonorgestrel. Until now, morning after pills including Ipill and Unwanted 72 have been safely accessible without a prescription. The proposed restriction, which was initially...
80% of young women reportedly had pain dismissed in UK
Historically, women have experienced severe disparities in their healthcare, where pain is often misunderstood and dismissed. The ‘gender pain gap’ remains notably problematic in the UK according to annual reports. Nurofen’s third-annual Gender Pain Gap Index report has revealed that 81% of UK women aged 18-24 have had their pain dismissed or ignored. The independent review surveyed over 5,000 women and men in the UK to analyse attitudes and experiences...
