Ali Hassan Bangwar is a freelance columnist based in Pakistan's Southeastern province of Sindh. He has contributed to The Express Tribune, Daily Times, Pakistan Today and South Asia Magazine. He has over 7 years of journalistic content writing experience including articles, columns and Op-ed for ...

Corruptissima re publica

17 Nov 2024  |  The Express Tribune  |  English  |  Legislation

The article discusses the negative impact of excessive legislation on governance, drawing on Tacitus's insight that more laws can lead to more corruption. It highlights how the proliferation of laws in Pakistan has led to legal complexities, institutional overreach, financial liabilities, and erosion of accountability. Despite having numerous laws, Pakistan ranks poorly in the World Justice Project's Regulatory Enforcement Index, indicating a gap between lawmaking and implementation. The article suggests that addressing this implementation gap could help resolve the socio-economic and political issues plaguing the country.

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Legislation Corruption Governance

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Sarah Betancourt is a journalist based in New York, United States of America.

Boston is one of the last places to allow renter-paid broker fees

15 Nov 2024  |  www.wgbh.org  |  English  |  Legislation

Boston remains one of the few major cities where renters are responsible for paying broker fees, a practice recently changed in New York City. The article discusses the implications of these fees, which can significantly increase the cost of moving into a new apartment. There is a push from various stakeholders, including housing planners and legislators, to shift the responsibility of these fees to landlords to improve housing affordability. However, concerns exist that landlords might pass these costs back to renters through higher rents. The article highlights the ongoing debate and potential legislative changes in Massachusetts, with support from entities like Zillow and local officials.

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Legislation Housing Real Estate

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Amindeh Blaise Atabong is an award-winning multi-talented journalist with intrinsic passion for investigative reporting, based in Yaounde - Cameroon. With close to six years of experience in print, radio broadcast and multimedia, he has uncovered and reported many ground-breaking stories.
Among his ...

Cameroon moves to safeguard personal data

14 Nov 2024  |  itweb.africa  |  English  |  Legislation

Cameroon's parliament is reviewing a draft bill to establish a legal framework for personal data protection. Submitted by Bolvine Wakata, the bill aims to safeguard individuals' rights and ensure data is processed lawfully and transparently. It mandates data processing based on consent and introduces penalties for violations. A Personal Data Protection Authority will be created to oversee implementation and coordination with other governmental bodies.

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Legislation Data Protection

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Daniel Breen is an audio journalist based in Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America. He is a news anchor and reporter at NPR member station KUAR Public Radio with experience in sound gathering, editing and voiceover as well as photography, videography and video/photo editing.

Affirmative action ban advances through Arkansas Senate

29 Jan 2025  |  KUAR  |  English  |  Legislation

The Arkansas Senate has approved Senate Bill 3, which seeks to ban state-supported affirmative action programs, prohibiting discrimination or preferential treatment in state entities. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Dan Sullivan, passed with 24 votes in favor, seven against, and four abstentions. Proponents argue that affirmative action programs have outlived their usefulness, while opponents, including Sen. Reginald Murdock and Sen. Clarke Tucker, warn of potential negative impacts and undefined terms leading to civil and criminal penalties. The bill now moves to a House committee for further consideration.

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Legislation Affirmative Action

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Gabrielle Canon is a journalist based in Oakland, CA who provides content in many formats, including print, video, broadcast, and photography. She is also available for on-air interviews and can speak on a variety of topics including prison reform, criminal justice, policies to combat homelessness, ...

Some US firefighters are paid as little as fast-food workers. Will Congress change that?

30 Jan 2025  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Federal Legislation

Federal firefighters in the US face significant pay disparities compared to state and local crews, with salaries comparable to fast-food workers. Despite temporary pay increases under the Biden administration, long-term solutions have stalled in Congress, leading to staffing shortages and safety concerns. The United States Forest Service, the largest employer of wildland firefighters, struggles with budget constraints and high turnover. Two bills in Congress aim to secure pay levels and provide foundational support, but their passage remains uncertain. The article highlights the critical role of federal firefighters amid increasing climate-related disasters and the need for legislative action to address their challenges.

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Federal Legislation Firefighter Pay Climate Crisis

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Benedict Abubakarr Conteh is an up-and-coming writer and journalist based in Makeni, Sierra Leone. With a passion for storytelling and community development. As the founder of Benedict Freedom FM, a community radio station dedicated to promoting education, culture, and entertainment in Sierra Leone,...

Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care Bill 2024: What Sierra Leoneans Need to Know

01 Dec 2024  |  Beline Media Empire  |  English  |  Legislation

The Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care Bill 2024 in Sierra Leone aims to transform maternal healthcare by improving access to services and addressing systemic inequalities. It proposes free maternal healthcare, increased access to contraception, and the establishment of maternal health centers. The bill responds to Sierra Leone's high maternal mortality rate and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals. Implementation challenges include limited infrastructure and cultural barriers. Public support and participation are crucial for the bill's success, emphasizing the need for informed advocacy and engagement with healthcare providers.

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Legislation Maternal Healthcare Reproductive Health

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James Crisp is a journalist based in Brussels, Belgium. He is the Brussels correspondent for the Daily Telegraph, covering the EU, Belgium and Brexit. Over the last seven years, he has covered EU politics, financial services and energy regulation for MLex, EurActiv, The Sun and the New Statesman. ...

Global deaths from assisted dying surpass 30,000 in a year

26 Nov 2024  |  The Telegraph  |  English  |  Legislation

Assisted dying and euthanasia have reached record levels globally, with over 30,000 cases reported last year in countries where it is legal. The increase is attributed to relaxed regulations and broader availability, including to minors. The UK is considering legalizing assisted dying, with a bill proposing strict safeguards. Proponents argue it provides choice and comfort, while critics warn of potential misuse and a slippery slope. The Netherlands, Belgium, and Canada are highlighted for their permissive laws, with significant public support in the Netherlands. The article presents a balanced view of the ongoing debate and legislative developments.

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Legislation Assisted Dying Euthanasia

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MQONDISI DUBE is a journalist based in Gaborone, South-East, Botswana.

Southern African countries in bid to fight UK anti-hunting bill

27 Nov 2024  |  www.voanews.com  |  English  |  Hunting Legislation

Six southern African countries, including Botswana and South Africa, are opposing a UK bill that seeks to ban the importation of wildlife trophies. They argue that the bill, reintroduced by the British Labour Party, undermines their conservation efforts and economic interests. Conservationists like Adam Hart criticize the bill as ineffective, while Neil Fitt supports ethical trophy hunting for ecosystem management. The countries are seeking a meeting with UK officials to discuss the bill's implications, emphasizing the need for sustainable hunting practices.

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Hunting Legislation Wildlife Conservation International Relations

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Sam Edwards has worked as a correspondent for Reuters and Bloomberg Industry and written for The Guardian Long Read, Politico.eu, and The Nation, among others. His work has been supported by the European Centre of Journalism and the Pulitzer Center.

Spain's Long-Delayed Global Minimum Tax Bill Passes Committee

19 Nov 2024  |  news.bloombergtax.com  |  English  |  Tax Legislation

A Spanish committee narrowly approved a bill to implement a global minimum tax rate of 15% for large multinationals, aligning with the global reform led by the Organization for Economic Development and Cooperation. The bill passed with a 20-17 vote, targeting corporations with revenues exceeding 750 million euros. The legislation is expected to be enacted by the end of the year, pending any changes in support from opposition parties.

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Tax Legislation Global Minimum Tax

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Antonio García is a journalist based in La Crucecita, Mexico.

RPDC seeks to institutionalize its e-commerce

16 Nov 2024  |  Noticias Prensa Latina - Actualizando minuto a minuto  |  Spanish  |  Legislation

North Korea is working to institutionalize its e-commerce sector by implementing a law aimed at informatizing and scientifically managing this activity. The legislation seeks to establish discipline in the creation and use of e-commerce. Additionally, amendments were made to laws concerning funeral ceremonies and electric energy, focusing on organization, construction, and operational regulations.

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Legislation E-commerce

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Shafi Musaddique is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom. Currently freelance business reporter for the Independent. Bylines also in Prospect Magazine, Huffington Post in 2017. Previously a journalist at the BBC and the Economist, starting out as a reporter for local newspapers in London.

US legislation targeting nonprofits as ‘terrorist supporting’ sparks philanthropy opposition

27 Nov 2024  |  Alliance magazine  |  English  |  US Legislation

A coalition of nonprofit networks, including the Council on Foundations and Independent Sector, opposes a US bill that could label nonprofits as 'terrorist supporting' without transparency. The legislation, Section 4 of HR 9495, grants the US Secretary of the Treasury authority to designate nonprofits without providing evidence, potentially harming their reputation and operations. Critics argue this could stifle nonprofit work and erode public trust. The bill is seen as part of a broader campaign against diversity and inclusion, with potential political implications for nonprofits, especially under conservative leadership.

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US Legislation Nonprofits Philanthropy Opposition

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Timothy Obiezu is a multimedia journalist with years of reporting and broadcast experience. He freelances for global media outlets like VOA, TRT World, Vice News, etc from his current based in Abuja, Nigeria.

Nigerian Activists, Lawmakers Coalesce Against Gender-Based Violence

27 Nov 2024  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Legislation

In Nigeria, a rally involving women's rights activists and lawmakers marked the country's participation in the UN-backed '16 Days of Activism' against gender-based violence. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen emphasized the need for legislative unity to combat this issue. Challenges such as poor awareness and cultural biases hinder progress, but initiatives like a national electronic dashboard and a 'sex offenders' registry aim to improve accountability. Raquel Kasham Daniel's foundation is advocating for a sexual harassment bill, while Women Affairs Minister Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim announced plans to review laws to better protect survivors.

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Legislation Gender-Based Violence Activism

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Caleb Onwe is a journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

ActionAid, Nasarawa Assembly Strengthen Drive For Youth Development Commission

15 Nov 2024  |  New Telegraph - Sanctity of Truth  |  English  |  Legislation

ActionAid Nigeria and the Nasarawa State House of Assembly are collaborating to establish a Youth Development Commission, focusing on empowering youth and addressing issues like unemployment and radicalization. The Youth Development Bill has passed its second reading and is moving to the public hearing phase. The initiative is part of ActionAid's efforts to promote peace and prevent violent extremism through youth engagement. The Nasarawa Assembly is committed to passing the bill into law, highlighting the importance of youth development.

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Legislation Youth Development

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MARIA PSARA is a journalist based in Brussel, Belgium.

Big Pharma vs EU: Who should pay for urban wastewater treatment?

27 Mar 2025  |  gr.euronews.com  |  Greek  |  EU Legislation

The European Union has implemented a directive requiring pharmaceutical and cosmetic producers to fund 80% of urban wastewater treatment costs to remove micropollutants, based on the 'polluter pays' principle. Industry representatives, including the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations and Medicines for Europe, argue that the directive is disproportionate and could threaten drug accessibility and affordability. The European Commission maintains that the directive's impact on drug prices and industry profit margins will be marginal, offering member states flexibility in fee calculations. The directive has led to legal challenges from industry players and Poland.

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EU Legislation Environmental Policy Pharmaceutical Industry

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Beatriz Rios is a reporter, broadcast journalist and events moderator based in Brussels, Belgium.

Live | Control session of the Government in the Congress of Deputies

11 Dec 2024  |  www.laprovincia.es  |  Spanish  |  Legislation

The Spanish Congress of Deputies is set to decide on the validation of a Royal Decree-law concerning urgent measures in response to the DANA. The Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Óscar Puente, will provide information on the ministry's actions addressing the consequences of the DANA.

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Legislation Government Natural Disasters

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Maire Rowland is a journalist based between Tirana, Albania and Ireland. I have extensive expertise in press freedom and human rights reporting. Published in The Coalition For Women In Journalism, The Sunday Times, Equal Times, Irish Examiner. Freelance member of NUJ UK and Ireland

Turkiye: “Foreign Agent” Law – A Direct Assault on Press Freedom and Civil Society

13 Nov 2024  |  Coalition For Women in Journalism  |  English  |  Legislation

Turkiye's proposed 'Agent of Influence' law, which aims to criminalize activities aligned with foreign interests, poses a significant threat to independent media and civil society. The bill, similar to Russia's foreign agent law, could lead to arbitrary enforcement against journalists and activists. Civil society and international organizations are urged to resist this authoritarian measure, which could severely impact press freedom and democracy in Turkiye and globally.

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Legislation Press Freedom Civil Society

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Far Left

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Journalist interested in human rights and International news.
Coverage of Ukrainian crisis in 2014 from Kiev and Crimea.
Reporting conditions of Syrian and Palestinian refugee camps in Jordan. Investigation about violation of human rights towards Kurds in Southeastern Turkey. Feature Photo ...

Texas AG Sues Dallas Over Marijuana Decriminalization Measure

25 Nov 2024  |  Forbes  |  English  |  Marijuana Legislation

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the City of Dallas over Proposition R, a measure decriminalizing certain marijuana offenses. The state argues the measure conflicts with Texas law, which criminalizes marijuana possession, and seeks to nullify it. The lawsuit is part of broader state efforts to challenge local marijuana policies, as Texas maintains strict marijuana laws despite some local attempts at reform. The outcome could impact future marijuana legislation in Texas, where past reform efforts have stalled in the conservative legislature.

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Marijuana Legislation Legal Dispute State vs Local Government

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Henry Samuel is a journalist based in Paris, France.

Pelicot trial sparks calls for ‘consent’ to be added to French rape law

20 Dec 2024  |  The Sydney Morning Herald  |  English  |  Consent Legislation

The Pelicot trial has intensified calls for the inclusion of 'consent' in French rape laws, highlighting perceived inadequacies in current legislation. Campaigners, including law professors Audrey Darsonville and Carole Hardouin-Le Goff, argue for reforms to align with European obligations and emulate English law. The trial revealed gaps in the legal definition of rape, as defendants exploited the absence of explicit consent requirements. Despite video evidence, many defendants denied charges, citing misunderstandings about consent. The debate has gained traction, with significant public support for legal updates. However, critics like Anne-Cecile Mailfert caution against over-reliance on consent, citing challenges in proving it and low conviction rates in the UK. The trial underscores broader issues of toxic masculinity and systemic challenges in the French legal system.

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Consent Legislation French Rape Law Pelicot Trial

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I'm a journalist. editor and marketing communications professional based in Bengaluru, India. Over the past quarter century, I've written extensively on diverse subjects ranging from air shows to defence expos, parenting to politics, rock stars to religion, and reviewed cars, books and gadgets. But ...

British Parliament Backs Assisted Dying Bill, Sparking National Debate

29 Nov 2024  |  stratnewsglobal.com  |  English  |  Legislation

The British Parliament has given initial approval to the 'Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life)' bill, allowing mentally competent, terminally ill adults in England and Wales to choose assisted dying under strict safeguards. The bill, introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, passed with 330 votes in favor and 275 against, sparking a national debate. Supporters argue it upholds patient dignity, while opponents fear it could pressure vulnerable individuals. The bill includes stringent safeguards and has ignited discussions among politicians, faith leaders, and the public. Prime Minister Keir Starmer supports the bill, while Foreign Minister David Lammy opposes it. The legislation marks a significant step in redefining Britain's approach to end-of-life care.

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Legislation Assisted Dying Social Reform

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Laura Sepulveda is a journalist based in New York, United States of America. Bilingual (Spanish and English) multimedia reporter with experience as an anchor, in radio and Tv reporting as well as investigative journalism and public relations.
Disciplined professional, with leadership skills, ...

Mississippi and Missouri debate offering rewards for information on undocumented immigrants

10 Feb 2025  |  www.vozdeamerica.com  |  Spanish  |  State Legislation

Mississippi and Missouri are considering legislation to offer rewards for information leading to the capture of immigrants with deportation orders, reflecting a broader trend of states taking action amid federal efforts to tighten immigration policies. The debate highlights differing approaches to immigration enforcement at the state level.

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State Legislation Immigration Policy

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Emily Tamkin is a journalist based in Washington, United States of America.

HR 9495 will be reintroduced for a vote

21 Nov 2024  |  Slate Magazine  |  English  |  Legislation

HR 9495, a bill that could impact nonprofits by allowing the Treasury Secretary to revoke tax-exempt status based on terrorism accusations, has passed the House largely along party lines. The bill, criticized for potentially expanding President-elect Donald Trump's powers, faces opposition from civil rights groups like the ACLU. Despite failing a previous vote, it is expected to pass the House with a simple majority. Concerns arise over its implications for civil society, with examples of misuse of terrorism labels in other countries cited. The bill's future in the Senate remains uncertain, but Republican control next session could influence its passage.

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Legislation US Politics Civil Rights

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Servet Yanatma is a freelace journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Pay equality between men and women: transparency in remuneration at the heart of the fight

26 Mar 2025  |  fr.euronews.com  |  French  |  European Union Legislation

The European Union is addressing the gender pay gap with a new directive on pay transparency, requiring member states to integrate it into national law by June 2026. The European Trade Union Confederation highlights the financial impact of the lack of transparency on women, estimating a loss of up to 7.2 billion euros annually. Despite efforts, salary transparency remains low in major European economies like Germany. BusinessEurope opposes the directive, arguing it imposes burdensome reporting requirements. The article emphasizes the role of transparency in reducing pay disparities and supporting marginalized groups.

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European Union Legislation Gender Pay Gap Workplace Transparency

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