Selling the left’s message in the digital age is an art – Ireland’s new president mastered it | Una Mullally

In the Netherlands, the centrist liberal party D66, led by Rob Jetten, is in a tight race with populist leader Geert Wilders as election results come in. With most votes counted, the outcome remains uncertain, highlighting the competitive political landscape in the country. This election is significant as it reflects the ongoing tensions between traditional parties and rising populist movements, which could shape future policies and governance.

Donald Trump's recent tour of Asia has sparked interest due to his focus on rare earth minerals. These minerals are crucial for various technologies and industries, making them a strategic asset for the U.S. economy. By striking deals in this sector, Trump aims to bolster American competitiveness and reduce reliance on foreign sources, which is a significant concern for national security.

Geert Wilders and his far-right party's two-year governance experiment in the Netherlands has ended in disappointment, raising critical questions about the viability of populist leadership in Europe. While Wilders convinced many voters that his party could effectively run the country, the reality has shown significant limitations in delivering on radical promises. This situation serves as a cautionary tale for other European nations considering similar political paths, highlighting the challenges and potential pitfalls of populism in governance.

Mary McGee, who passed away recently, played a pivotal role in changing Ireland's laws on contraception. In 1972, she and her husband Seamus challenged the government's ban by taking a landmark legal case after customs seized her contraceptives. This brave act sparked a social revolution, leading to the eventual legalization of contraceptives in Ireland. Her legacy is significant as it not only impacted reproductive rights but also inspired many to advocate for social change.

Brazil's president expressed horror as the death toll from a recent police raid in Rio de Janeiro has risen to at least 115 gang suspects and 4 police officers. This military-style operation has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about police violence and the ongoing struggle against organized crime in the country. The high casualty figures highlight the urgent need for reform in law enforcement practices and a more humane approach to tackling crime.

The Dutch election is shaping up to be a nail-biter as anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders sees his hopes of power diminish compared to his previous victory in November 2023. This shift is significant as it reflects changing voter sentiments and the complexities of the political landscape in the Netherlands, highlighting the challenges faced by populist movements in gaining sustained support.

In a crucial national election in the Netherlands, exit polls indicate that the centrist D66 party is narrowly leading over the far-right party of Geert Wilders. This election is significant as it could signal a shift away from the rising tide of anti-immigration populism that has characterized recent politics in the country. Wilders expressed disappointment with the results, highlighting the ongoing tension between centrist and far-right ideologies in Dutch society.

Ireland's rugby team is gearing up for the Autumn Nations Series with the return of head coach Farrell, who recently led the team on a successful Lions tour. This comeback is crucial as the team faces pressure to demonstrate that their peak performance is still ahead of them. The series promises to be intense, with teams needing to quickly adapt to the high stakes and fast-paced environment. Fans are excited to see how Ireland will rise to the challenge and prove their worth on the international stage.

The situation in El-Fasher, Sudan, has escalated dramatically following a paramilitary takeover, prompting international aid groups to express grave concerns for the safety of those remaining in the city. The recent influx of refugees into camps highlights the severe atrocities occurring in the region and the challenges faced by individuals seeking safety. The UN Security Council has condemned the violent assault, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and protection for vulnerable populations. This situation is critical as it reflects broader issues of instability and human rights violations in Sudan.

The UN Security Council has strongly condemned the mass killings of civilians in El Fasher, Sudan, by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This alarming situation has escalated following the RSF's recent takeover of the city, leading to a humanitarian crisis that has drawn international attention. The condemnation from diplomats and senior UN officials highlights the urgent need for action to protect civilians and restore peace in the region, as the violence threatens to destabilize not just Sudan but the surrounding areas as well.

In a controversial decision, President Trump has announced a significant reduction in refugee admissions for the upcoming fiscal year, capping the number at just 7,500, primarily targeting white South Africans. This drastic cut from the previous limit of 125,000 raises concerns about the U.S.'s commitment to humanitarian efforts and the implications for those seeking refuge from persecution. The move has sparked debate over immigration policies and the criteria for refugee status, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding race and nationality in the U.S.

India's women's cricket team made history by defeating Australia in a thrilling semi-final match to secure their place in the Women's Cricket World Cup final. This victory is significant not only for the team but also for the growth of women's cricket in India, showcasing their talent on a global stage and inspiring future generations of female athletes.

New York has declared a state of emergency to support food banks as federal funding for the national food stamps program is about to run out due to the ongoing government shutdown. This move is crucial as it aims to ensure that vulnerable populations continue to receive essential food assistance during a time of uncertainty. By taking this step, New York is addressing immediate needs and highlighting the importance of food security in the face of political challenges.

India's decision to impose a 30% duty on yellow pea imports, starting November 1, is a significant move aimed at stabilizing local prices. This policy will affect imports from Canada, a major supplier, and could lead to increased costs for consumers and businesses relying on this staple. The duty reflects India's ongoing efforts to protect its agricultural sector, but it may also strain trade relations and impact availability in the market.