S. Korean president apologises over foreign adoptions of stolen children

The president of South Korea has issued an apology for a foreign adoption scheme that began after the Korean War, which aimed to remove mixed-race children from society. This program has been criticized for violating human rights, and the apology marks a significant step towards acknowledging past injustices. It matters because it reflects a growing recognition of the need to address historical wrongs and promote healing within society.

The Guardian's Young Country Diary series is inviting children aged 8-14 to share their experiences with nature this autumn. This initiative not only encourages young writers to express their thoughts and observations but also fosters a deeper connection with the environment. By publishing these articles, The Guardian aims to highlight the importance of nature in children's lives and inspire a new generation to appreciate and protect the natural world.

The inquiry into the Southport killings revealed that the perpetrator, at just 15 years old, had asked crossbow sellers about age verification and delivery options. This troubling detail highlights the need for stricter regulations on weapon sales to minors, raising concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of current laws.

A recent Senate inquiry, led by the Greens, has raised serious concerns about the waiting lists in aged care, labeling them a 'calculated denial of services' that could have fatal consequences. The inquiry argues that the system should be demand-driven, countering the Labor party's dissenting opinion that such a shift could lead to unintended issues. This debate is crucial as it highlights the urgent need for reform in aged care services, which directly impacts the well-being of vulnerable seniors in Australia.

Slovakia has taken a significant step backward in LGBTQ+ rights with a recent constitutional amendment that recognizes only male and female sexes, effectively making adoption nearly impossible for same-sex couples. This move has been labeled a 'dark day' by LGBTQ+ advocates, who argue it reflects a broader trend of diminishing human rights and rule of law in the country. The implications of this decision are profound, as it not only affects the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals but also signals a worrying shift in societal values.

Anne's recent visit to Ukraine highlights her commitment to supporting children affected by the ongoing war. By meeting with displaced children and visiting a memorial for young victims, she brings attention to their plight and the need for continued support. This visit not only raises awareness but also emphasizes the importance of compassion and solidarity in times of crisis.

On September 30, British Columbia commemorated the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day dedicated to remembering the children who never returned home from residential schools. Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of this day in acknowledging the painful history and the ongoing impact of these institutions on Indigenous communities. This observance is crucial for fostering understanding and healing, as it encourages reflection on the past and promotes a path toward reconciliation.

A recent UK inquiry revealed that children were often prevented from playing outside during the Covid pandemic because their play was perceived as 'too much like fun.' Alice Ferguson, director of the campaign group Playing Out, emphasized that outdoor play is crucial for children's health and wellbeing. This situation highlights the negative impact of strict restrictions on children's freedom to engage in essential activities, raising concerns about their physical and mental health during such challenging times.

A groundbreaking study has revealed that living in an unequal society can lead to structural changes in children's brains, affecting their development regardless of their family's wealth. This research, involving over 10,000 young people in the US, highlights the urgent need to address inequality as a public health issue. By understanding the detrimental effects of inequality on brain development, we can advocate for policies that promote equity and improve the well-being of future generations.

South Korea has raised its national cyber threat level to 'caution' following a significant fire at a government datacentre that disrupted critical digital infrastructure. This incident has sparked fears that hackers might exploit the ensuing chaos to launch cyberattacks. The urgency to restore government systems is paramount, as the intelligence agency works to safeguard against potential threats. This situation highlights the vulnerabilities in digital security and the importance of robust measures to protect essential services.

The UK inquiry into the impact of Covid school closures reveals alarming consequences for children, highlighting how the pandemic has disrupted their childhood. Counsel Clair Dobbin KC shared that evidence from thousands of stories indicates many children faced exposure to harmful content and significant emotional distress without the protective environment of schools. This inquiry is crucial as it sheds light on the long-term effects of the pandemic on young people's development and well-being.

In a recent public inquiry, the Southport dance teacher who organized the class where three children tragically lost their lives stated that locking the door would not have prevented the attack. She emphasized that multiple organizations had the opportunity to intervene and potentially stop the killer. This revelation highlights the systemic failures that allowed such a horrific event to occur, raising important questions about safety measures and accountability in community settings.

The Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has announced plans to eliminate key climate legislation that sets legally binding targets for reducing emissions. This move raises significant concerns among environmentalists and climate advocates, as it could undermine efforts to combat climate change and meet international commitments. The decision reflects a broader political debate about the balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility, making it a crucial issue for voters who prioritize sustainability.

The recent interception of a pro-Palestinian aid flotilla by Israel has sparked widespread protests and international condemnation. Activists, including prominent figures like Greta Thunberg, were detained, leading to demonstrations in cities around the globe. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises questions about humanitarian aid and international response, making it a significant moment in the discourse surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

A tragic incident in Manchester during Yom Kippur has left two people dead and several others injured due to a stabbing and ramming attack. This shocking event has raised concerns about the safety of Jewish communities across the U.K., leading to heightened police security measures for congregations nationwide. It highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring safety and security for minority groups in the face of violence.

Tragic events unfolded in Morocco as two individuals lost their lives during youth-led anti-government protests in Lqliâa. This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing demonstrations, which have been calling for essential social justice reforms. Local authorities claim that the police acted in self-defense while attempting to control the situation, but the rising unrest highlights the deep-seated frustrations among the youth regarding governance and social issues. The implications of these protests could lead to increased scrutiny of government actions and a potential shift in public sentiment.

A tragic incident unfolded at the Heaton Park Hebrew congregation synagogue in Manchester, where a suspected terror attack resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals. The attacker reportedly used a car and a knife to target members of the public, leading to a swift response from police who shot the suspect. This event raises significant concerns about safety and security in places of worship, highlighting the ongoing threat of violence in communities.

A tragic attack in Manchester has left two people dead, occurring on the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of violence and intolerance faced by religious communities, making it a significant concern for society as a whole.