Policy Making
Strong public policy leads to more cohesive, resilient, and sustainable societies. In this section, find out about the latest legislations from around the world aimed at making our world a better place.
Ecuadorians take a stand and vote to save the heart of the Amazon from oil drilling
Ecuadorians made history by voting to prohibit the development of new oil wells in the Yasuní national park, in a resounding display of environmental consciousness and civic engagement. This amazing verdict not only protects one of the world's most biodiverse places but also establishes a global Read More...
Same-sex marriage now legal in Nepal: A historic step toward equality in South Asia
Nepal, a conservative South Asian country, recently made great progress in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The country's highest court has authorized the legal registration of same-sex weddings, making it the first country in South Asia to do so. While same-sex marriages are first categorized as Read More...
New York Governor protects transgender youth’s right to transition-related care
New York Governor Kathy Hochul took an important step toward preserving the rights of transgender adolescents on Sunday, June 25th, by signing legislation to protect their access to transition-related medical treatment. The new law not only prevents New York courts from enforcing regulations from Read More...
Netherlands launches free sun protection campaign to promote sun safety
The Netherlands is taking proactive steps to combat the worrisome rise in skin cancer incidences by offering free sun protection to its inhabitants. Recognizing the importance of ensuring that everyone has free and easy access to sun cream, the government launched a statewide drive to place sun Read More...
Over-the-counter contraception pills: A radical shift towards convenient contraception
In an encouraging development, two FDA advisory panels unanimously agreed to recommend the approval of Opill (generic name: norgestrel), an over-the-counter (OTC) birth control pill. While the FDA makes its final decision, the possible consequences of over-the-counter birth control tablets are Read More...
A historic win for animal rights: Spain passes law against domestic animal abuse
Earlier this month, Spanish legislators unanimously approved a bill to improve the welfare of animals. The bill was accompanied by a modification of the penal code that will result in harsher punishments for anyone who abuses animals. Ione Belarra, Minister of Social Rights and Leader of the Read More...
New report indicates that extreme poverty might be eradicated by 2050
A recent economic estimate predicts that the end of extreme poverty could be reached by 2050, thanks to economic growth in low-income countries. According to a Center for Global Development (CGD) assessment, even though the Covid epidemic reversed some progress in eradicating extreme poverty Read More...
Laguna Beach bans balloons to protect marine environment
Last week, Laguna Beach, California — known for its surfers, waves, and rolling hills – caused a stir for its tight prohibition on the sale and use of balloons. The motion was passed by the municipal council last week, citing the risk of wildfires and the fact that balloons are a major source Read More...
Seattle becomes first US city to outlaw caste discrimination
Following a decision by the city council, Seattle has become the first city in the United States to outlaw caste discrimination. Councilwoman Kshama Sawant, who drafted the law, said the struggle against caste bias "is deeply connected to the fight against all forms of oppression". Proponents Read More...
EU bans new gas or diesel vehicle production by the year 2035
The European Parliament adopted a ban on the sale of new fossil-fueled cars and light vehicles by 2035 earlier this month. Following in the footsteps of California and New York, among other U.S. states, the European Union will now be one of the major car markets to compel a move to electric Read More...