‘It’s like arguing with robots’: negotiators on the state of Cop30 talks

The COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, concluded with a fragile agreement, indicating that while the world is not winning the climate battle, cooperation remains alive. The deal, however, failed to phase out fossil fuels and did not meet expectations regarding deforestation commitments, reflecting deep divisions among participating nations.

The Trump administration has reportedly disbanded the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) ahead of its scheduled end, confirming long-held suspicions about the agency's viability. With eight months remaining on its contract, the agency's dissolution marks the conclusion of its controversial efforts to restructure federal agencies and reduce workforce numbers. OPM director Scott Kupor stated that Doge is no longer a 'centralized entity.'

A recent survey conducted in New South Wales revealed that over a quarter of young men believe violence is acceptable for gaining respect, with more than one-third admitting to sexually harassing women in the past month. This alarming data comes from the NSW Man Box report, commissioned by the Minns government, highlighting concerning attitudes towards gender roles and violence among youth.

Hospitals in Gaza are facing a severe shortage of essential medical supplies as Israeli airstrikes continue to escalate, resulting in over 50 fatalities and more than 100 injuries in recent days. Medical personnel report critical shortages of gauze, antiseptics, thermometers, and antibiotics, which are vital for treating the wounded. This situation has arisen amid ongoing violence that has intensified despite previous ceasefire agreements.

The COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, concluded amid significant disruptions, including a fire that led to the evacuation of attendees and ongoing divisions over fossil fuel policies. The event, which extended beyond its scheduled end, saw last-minute negotiations that barely salvaged agreements on climate action amidst chaotic conditions and severe weather challenges.

A cross-party coalition in England is working towards the realization of an ambitious 'forest city' plan, aiming to construct a city made of wood that could accommodate one million residents. The initiative is set to begin construction by the end of the current parliamentary term, marking the first such project since Milton Keynes in the 1960s.

Experts have condemned the Free Birth Society (FBS) for promoting unassisted childbirth, claiming it leads to dangerous outcomes such as excessive bleeding and stillbirths. The organization, led by influencers Emilee Saldaya and Yolande Norris-Clark, lacks medical training and has been linked to tragic cases, including infant deaths.

The Albanese government of Australia has been urged to clarify its strategy for phasing out fossil fuels after signing the Belém declaration at the Cop30 climate summit, which advocates for a swift transition away from coal, gas, and oil. Despite this commitment, Albanese has dismissed calls to halt the development of new gas fields.