Ivory Coast Election Results
Alassane Ouattara has been declared the winner of the presidential election in Ivory Coast, achieving 89.77% of the vote, equivalent to approximately 3.75 million votes. The Independent Electoral Commission announced the provisional results on Monday evening. The 83-year-old president, who has been in office since 2011, faced four lesser-known candidates after opposition leaders were barred from running. Despite a low voter turnout of around 50%, the election was noted for its peaceful conduct compared to previous years, which were marred by violence and unrest. Ouattara's victory allows him to continue leading the world's largest cocoa producer until 2030, although his administration has faced criticism for alleged crony capitalism and suppression of dissent.
Trial for Online Harassment of Brigitte Macron
In Paris, ten individuals are on trial for online harassment targeting Brigitte Macron, stemming from false claims about her gender. The defendants, aged between 41 and 60, are accused of making derogatory comments about the French first lady, including insinuations regarding her age difference with President Emmanuel Macron. The trial is part of a broader legal battle, with the Macrons also pursuing a defamation lawsuit in the United States against those spreading the false narrative. If convicted, the defendants could face up to two years in prison. The case highlights ongoing issues of online harassment and the impact of misinformation.
UK Arms Deal with Turkey
The United Kingdom has finalized an £8 billion deal to sell 20 Typhoon fighter jets to Turkey, despite ongoing concerns regarding human rights violations under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s government. The agreement was signed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a visit to Ankara, where he emphasized the deal's importance for NATO security. Critics have raised alarms about Turkey's political climate, particularly following new charges against Erdoğan's chief political rival, Ekrem İmamoğlu. The deal is expected to secure jobs in the UK and support the defense industry, but it has drawn criticism for potentially overlooking Turkey's human rights record.
Lithuania's Response to Border Threats
Lithuania's Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė has authorized the shooting down of smuggling balloons from Belarus, describing them as "hybrid attacks." This decision follows multiple incidents that led to the temporary closure of Vilnius airport. The Lithuanian government has also moved to close its border with Belarus, a move criticized by Minsk as provocative. Ruginienė has called for a united response from the EU and NATO, emphasizing the need for a strong stance against perceived threats from neighboring countries.
Rising Ski Pass Prices in Italy
Ski pass prices in Italy are set to rise significantly this winter, with reports indicating increases of up to 40% compared to 2021. The president of the Italian consumers' association, Assoutenti, has warned that these price hikes may make skiing an exclusive activity for the wealthy. Daily ski passes in popular resorts are expected to cost as much as €86, while seasonal passes could range from €755 to €1,800. The rising costs have already led to a decline in mountain tourism, with one million fewer Italians skiing compared to the previous year. The situation raises concerns as Italy prepares to host the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics in February.
Wrap-up
These global developments reflect a range of political, social, and economic issues affecting various countries. From election outcomes in Ivory Coast to trials for online harassment in France, and significant arms deals in the UK, the international landscape continues to evolve amid ongoing challenges.
Sources
theguardian.com
newsis.com
@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team
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