Macron’s popularity sinks to record low – poll

France's evangelical Christians are gaining prominence in a country known for its secularism. As they expand their congregations and open new churches, they are attracting a younger audience, which signifies a shift in the religious landscape. This growth matters because it reflects changing attitudes towards faith in a traditionally secular society, potentially influencing social and cultural dynamics.

A recent study reveals a troubling rise in cocaine use in France, which has doubled in 2023, making it the seventh-highest consumer of cocaine in Europe. While cannabis use among youth appears to be declining, the French government remains resistant to legalizing it. This situation is exacerbating drug-related crime, significantly impacting daily life in the country. Experts like Marie Jauffret-Roustide from the European Union Drugs Agency emphasize the urgent need for effective strategies to address these escalating drug issues.

The rise of mega farms in Morocco is causing a stir among French tomato producers who feel threatened by the low prices of Moroccan tomatoes, which are sold for just 99 cents a basket. This situation raises concerns about the exploitation of migrant workers on these farms, particularly at the Franco-Moroccan company Azura. As these farms thrive in one of Morocco's harshest climates, the ethical implications of their operations are coming under scrutiny, highlighting the tension between affordable produce and fair labor practices.

In a troubling development, five additional suspects have been arrested in France in connection with the Louvre jewellery heist, bringing the total number of arrests to seven. Despite these efforts, the priceless Napoleonic-era jewellery remains missing, raising concerns about the security of cultural treasures and the effectiveness of law enforcement in recovering stolen artifacts.

The recent break-in at the Louvre has sparked alarm among some commentators and conservatives in France, who view it as a sign of national decline. However, the authors argue that this panic distracts from the more pressing threat posed by the far right to French democracy. They emphasize the need for a collective response to safeguard democratic values rather than focusing on isolated incidents, highlighting the importance of unity in the face of rising extremism.

Two suspects in the Louvre heist have been apprehended by authorities, according to the Paris prosecutor. These individuals, believed to have broken into the iconic museum, were found living on the outskirts of the French capital. This development is significant as it highlights ongoing efforts to enhance security at cultural landmarks and the swift action taken by law enforcement in response to such high-profile crimes.

French lawmakers have taken a significant step by voting on amendments to next year's budget bill that aim to increase taxes on multinational corporations. This includes doubling the existing digital tax on global tech giants and introducing a minimum tax rate of 25% on profits earned in France. While this move reflects the government's intent to ensure fair taxation, the amendments face uncertainty as they may be challenged in the conservative-controlled Senate. This situation highlights the ongoing debate over corporate taxation in France and its implications for international businesses operating in the country.

Two men have been arrested in connection with a daring jewel heist at the Louvre museum in France, facing serious charges of theft and conspiracy. This incident, involving a sophisticated break-in with a cherry-picker truck, has captured public attention due to the staggering value of the stolen jewellery, estimated at over $102 million. The ongoing investigation highlights the vulnerabilities even in world-renowned institutions, raising concerns about security and the potential impact on tourism and cultural heritage.

Zohran Mamdani is making waves in the New York mayoral race with his bold campaign promises, including a rent freeze, free buses, and universal healthcare. His rise as a frontrunner has sparked discussions about whether his approach could serve as a model for Democrats across the U.S. This matters because it highlights a potential shift in political strategy that could resonate with voters seeking progressive change.

In a significant move, King Charles has stripped Prince Andrew of his royal title, a decision influenced by Andrew's controversial friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and new revelations regarding longstanding abuse allegations. This action underscores the monarchy's commitment to accountability and reflects the ongoing scrutiny of royal conduct, marking a pivotal moment in the royal family's efforts to distance itself from past scandals.

In a troubling incident, ICE agents were involved in a shooting during a vehicle stop in Ontario, California, marking the second such event in just a week. This comes as the Trump administration intensifies its deportation efforts across the U.S. The involvement of federal agents in such violent encounters raises serious concerns about the methods used in immigration enforcement and the safety of communities. As investigations unfold, the implications for both policy and public trust in law enforcement are significant.

The Quebec government has passed a controversial secularism bill that mandates students to uncover their faces in schools. This law aims to reinforce secular values but has sparked significant debate about personal freedoms and cultural expression. Critics argue that it infringes on individual rights, particularly for those who wear face coverings for religious or personal reasons, highlighting the ongoing tension between secularism and multiculturalism in the province.

Australia has made a significant step forward with the passage of its first Indigenous treaty in the Victorian parliament, which passed with a vote of 21 to 16. This historic legislation is crucial as it acknowledges the rights and voices of Indigenous Australians, paving the way for better relations and reparations. As MPs from the Coalition gather to discuss the contentious net zero policy, this treaty represents a moment of progress in addressing historical injustices and fostering reconciliation.

The Times of London recently issued an apology after mistakenly identifying former New York City mayor Bill de Blasio as a wine importer with a similar name. This blunder led to the deletion of an article discussing de Blasio's views on Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani. The ex-mayor distanced himself from the erroneous story, while the wine importer clarified that he never intended to mislead the publication. This incident highlights the importance of thorough fact-checking in journalism.