The International Advisory Panel on Biodiversity Credits (IAPB) launched a framework for biodiversity credit markets at COP16 in Cali, Colombia. The framework aims to support the development of high-integrity biodiversity credits to address biodiversity loss and finance conservation efforts. It emphasizes the importance of respecting the knowledge and rights of nature's stewards and calls for collective leadership to scale up these markets. The initiative is supported by a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and indigenous communities, and aligns with the Global Biodiversity Framework's goals.

James Earl Jones, renowned for his iconic voice roles, including Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King, passed away at 93. Celebrated for his contributions to film, television, music, and theater, Jones was one of the few to achieve EGOT status. His career spanned decades, with notable performances in films like Conan the Barbarian and collaborations with directors such as Stanley Kubrick. His passing marks the end of a significant era in entertainment.

Transnational organized crime presents a global challenge, characterized by its rapid evolution and the static nature of government responses. The issue is often deemed too sensitive for national or global discourse, resulting in a lack of a coordinated international strategy. The United Nations and its member states are highlighted as lacking a coherent approach to effectively tackle this pervasive problem.

Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle, a film adaptation of the volleyball anime, continues the story from the last season, focusing on the intense match between Karasuno and Nekoma. The film, a collaboration between Sony Pictures and Crunchyroll, is the first of two parts concluding Hinata Shoyo's journey. The narrative highlights the rivalry and friendship between players, particularly Hinata and Kenma, and showcases the strategic gameplay and emotional stakes involved. Despite its short duration, the film delivers high-quality animation and engaging moments, resonating well with fans.

Microsoft is closing four studios under its subsidiary Bethesda, including Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin, to prioritize future blockbuster titles. The decision, communicated by Matt Booty of Xbox Game Studios, involves the closure of Arkane Austin, Alpha Dog Studios, and Tango Gameworks, while Roundhouse Games will merge with ZeniMax Online Studios. The closures aim to reallocate resources for upcoming projects. Despite the shutdowns, games like Hi-Fi Rush and Redfall will remain available, with some compensatory offers for players. The restructuring follows Microsoft's acquisition of Bethesda in 2020.

The Homicide Monitor's recent findings highlight persistently high homicide rates in Latin American and Caribbean cities, with over 40 of the top 50 most homicidal cities located in these regions. Ecuadorian cities, particularly Durán, have seen a significant rise in homicide rates due to escalating drug wars. South African cities like Nelson Mandela Bay also feature prominently on the list. The report notes a decrease in violent cities from Central America, attributed to tough-on-crime policies, while highlighting the absence of data from many African and Asian cities. The analysis underscores the need for improved data collection and transparency to better understand urban violence trends.

Marvel Rivals, a new 6v6 shooter developed by NetEase Games, has been announced with a trailer showcasing its characters and gameplay mechanics. The game, similar to Overwatch, features third-person shooting with unique abilities for each character, played in teams of six. The trailer reveals 12 playable characters, including Iron Man, Hulk, and Spider-Man, with Galacta, daughter of Galactus, making a notable appearance. Marvel Rivals will be available for free on Steam and Epic Games Store, with an alpha release scheduled for May 2024.

The Vietnam Championship Series (VCS) has postponed all remaining matches of the 2024 Spring Series starting March 18 due to concerns about competitive integrity. This includes both the group stage and the Spring Finals, which were to determine the regional representative for the Mid-Season Invitational. The decision follows an ongoing investigation into participating teams, with organizers stressing their commitment to transparency and zero tolerance for actions compromising competitive integrity. The last match played was between CERBERUS and GAM Esports, with all subsequent group stage matches canceled and results from March 14 disregarded. Group stage standings will be based on results up to March 10, determining playoff participants. This is not the first integrity issue for VCS, as SBTC Esports faced a ban in August 2023 for significant regulatory violations.

Haiti is experiencing violent chaos with gangs in Port-au-Prince displaying high-powered rifles and automatic weapons. These firearms are not produced in Haiti, which lacks manufacturing capabilities for such weaponry. The arsenal predominantly originates from the United States, with many guns likely trafficked from states with lax firearm laws, particularly Florida.

The decision to address the escalating violence in Haiti was made during a meeting in Jamaica with international partners including the United States, France, and the United Nations. Haitian Prime Minister Henry did not attend due to being stranded in Puerto Rico amid the violence and calls for his resignation. The state of emergency in Port-au-Prince has been extended, with gangs taking control of key locations such as the airport, maritime posts, public buildings, and highways.