Category: International

International

Nepal’s Supreme Court Ends Tax on Sanitary Pads in Historic Menstrual Equity Ruling

Tanisha Cardozo

Kathmandu, July 31, 2025 — In a historic decision, Nepal’s Supreme Court has ruled to eliminate the tax on sanitary pads, nearly four years after a legal petition was filed by two students from the Kathmandu School of Law.

The court’s ruling is a significant milestone in Nepal’s journey toward menstrual equity and women’s health rights. The decision was handed down by a bench comprising Justices Manoj Kumar Sharma and Mahesh Sharma Poudel in response to a writ petition filed in 2021 by Shreena Nepal and Abhyuday Bhetwal.

Their argument was clear: Menstrual products are essential goods, not luxury items, and should not be taxed as such. At the time of filing, imported sanitary pads were subject to an 18% tax — 5% customs duty and 13% VAT — a rate that applied even to raw materials used for local production.

The court had instructed the petitioners to obtain responses from four key ministries — Finance, Women and Children, Law and Justice, and Health. Despite minor reforms over the years, including reduced import duties in 2022–23, the petitioners and health advocates pushed for full tax exemption.

The ruling is expected to result in:

  • Lower product prices: A pack of pads priced at Rs60 could now cost Rs50.
  • Boost to local industry: Encouraging domestic production and possibly exports.
  • Expanded access: Helping reduce school dropout rates and workplace absenteeism due to poor menstrual hygiene.
  • Global alignment: Joining countries like India, Colombia, and Scotland in taking bold action against period poverty.

According to the Department of Customs, Nepal imported over 213 million sanitary pads last year, generating Rs251.2 million in tax revenue. Activists argue that this figure pales in comparison to the potential social benefits of tax exemption.

This decision represents more than a legal victory — it’s a statement about dignity, health, and equality for women and girls in Nepal.

International

Gillbert the Robot Fish: A Student’s Bold Move Against Microplastics

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

In the ongoing fight against plastic pollution, a new hero has emerged from an unlikely place — a university classroom. Meet Gillbert, a salmon-sized, 3D-printed robotic fish that swims like its biological cousins but with a futuristic twist: it filters out microplastics from the water.

Created by Eleanor Mackintosh, a student at the University of Surrey, Gillbert is designed with a mesh filtration system that traps even the smallest plastic particles. Built with affordability, sustainability, and education in mind, the robot is also open-source and free to replicate — making it accessible to communities, schools, and researchers worldwide.

Gillbert’s mission is more than academic. The robot has already undergone real-world testing in UK lakes, proving its ability to collect microplastics efficiently while maintaining the elegant, natural movements of a fish — thanks to biomimetic engineering.

This project underscores a growing trend of student-led climate tech and shows how innovation doesn’t have to come from massive R&D budgets or large corporations. Sometimes, it starts with a student, a printer, and a purpose.

With more interest growing around Gillbert’s design, there’s hope that this humble robot fish could spark a wave of similar solutions worldwide.

International

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Promoted to Rank of General by UAE President

allycaralgoa

Abu Dhabi, July 30, 2025 — In a significant recognition of his service and leadership, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued Federal Decree No. 93 of 2025, promoting His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to the rank of General.

This historic decree honors Sheikh Hamdan’s unwavering contributions as Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, underscoring his pivotal role in the UAE’s leadership and strategic direction, particularly in the field of national security and defense modernization.

A Milestone in National Recognition

The decree states that the promotion takes effect from the date of issuance and will be published in the UAE’s official gazette. It reflects the nation’s appreciation for Sheikh Hamdan’s visionary leadership, dedication, and service to the UAE, both at home and on the global stage.

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed noted the importance of strengthening national institutions through capable, future-forward leaders—especially during a time of rapid regional and global shifts.

About Sheikh Hamdan

A prominent figure in Emirati governance and youth inspiration, Sheikh Hamdan is well-regarded for his dynamic leadership style, commitment to innovation, and active public engagement. Known by his popular online moniker @Faz3, he blends tradition with modernity, frequently seen championing social causes, entrepreneurship, and national service.

As Minister of Defence, he has prioritized technological modernization, joint military cooperation, and cybersecurity defense strategies, contributing to the UAE’s growing influence in regional security.

What This Means for the UAE

The promotion cements Sheikh Hamdan’s leadership trajectory at a time when the UAE is enhancing its military readiness and playing an increasingly active diplomatic and strategic role internationally.

📖 For more insights and official updates, visit allycaral.com

International

Blaise Metreweli Named First Woman Chief of MI6 in Historic Appointment

allycaralgoa

London, July 30, 2025 — In a groundbreaking moment for British intelligence, Blaise Metreweli has been appointed as the 18th Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6), marking the first time a woman will lead the organization in its 116-year history.

Her appointment, effective October 1, 2025, was confirmed by the UK government and praised by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who called it “a milestone at a time when the UK faces unprecedented global challenges.”

A Trailblazer in Tech and Intelligence

Metreweli currently heads MI6’s technology and innovation division, known internally as “Q”—a nod to the gadget-master in the James Bond universe. In this role, she has championed AI-driven surveillance tools, cyber intelligence advancements, and digital tradecraft that have become essential in countering global espionage threats.

She brings 25 years of service in British intelligence, including high-level roles in MI5 and operational deployments across the Middle East and Europe.

Breaking the Glass Ceiling in British Intelligence

While MI5 and GCHQ—the UK’s domestic and cyber intelligence agencies—have had female leaders before, MI6 had remained a male-led institution since its founding in 1909. Metreweli’s appointment shatters that precedent and sets a new tone for leadership in the intelligence community.

A Background Built for Modern Threats

Metreweli studied anthropology at the University of Cambridge, is fluent in Arabic, and is widely regarded for her ability to combine cultural intelligence with cutting-edge technology. Her work has significantly advanced MI6’s ability to counter emerging threats, including state-sponsored cyberattacks from adversaries like Russia and China.

In a statement, she said:

“I am proud and honored to lead my Service. MI6 plays a vital role in protecting the UK alongside MI5 and GCHQ. I look forward to guiding our people through the evolving landscape of global threats with the innovation and integrity that our mission demands.”

Endorsements Across the Board

Her predecessor, Sir Richard Moore, praised her as a “highly accomplished intelligence officer” and “a leading thinker in the application of technology to security.” Her peers describe her as strategic, forward-thinking, and deeply respected across both UK and allied agencies.

What This Means Going Forward

Metreweli’s leadership is expected to usher in a new era of modernization and inclusion at MI6. At a time when hybrid warfare, cyber espionage, and global instability are reshaping the geopolitical landscape, her appointment reflects a conscious pivot toward innovation and diversity in national security.

📖 For deeper analysis and real-time updates, visit allycaral.com

International

Australia Bans Social Media Accounts for Under-16s, Including YouTube, from December 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

MELBOURNE, July 30 — In a historic reversal of its earlier decision, the Australian government has confirmed that YouTube will be included in its upcoming ban on social media platforms for children under 16. This groundbreaking regulation takes effect on December 10, 2025, and will subject non-compliant platforms to fines as high as AU$50 million (US$33 million).

YouTube was originally exempt from the legislation passed in November 2024, which introduced age restrictions for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and X. However, following new research and public concern, Communications Minister Anika Wells announced that YouTube will no longer receive special treatment.

“The evidence cannot be ignored that four out of 10 Australian kids report that their most recent harm was on YouTube,” said Wells. “We will not be intimidated by legal threats when this is a genuine fight for the wellbeing of Australian kids.”

The ban prohibits children under 16 from creating social media accounts, though it does not entirely block access to platforms or their content. This means children may still view videos but cannot sign in or interact via personal accounts.

YouTube, owned by Alphabet Inc., criticized the decision, calling it a reversal of a prior public commitment. The company insists that it functions as a video-sharing platform, not social media.

“Our position remains clear: YouTube is not social media,” a spokesperson said. “We’ll consider next steps and continue engaging with the government.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese voiced his strong support for the measure and announced that Australia would push for global social media age bans at a United Nations forum in New York this September.

While critics have raised questions about implementation, Minister Wells confirmed that the government would not require sensitive ID documents like passports or driver’s licenses. Instead, platforms are expected to use non-invasive age verification technologies.

Exemptions to the ban include platforms and apps dedicated to education, health, online gaming, and private messaging.

The move comes amid growing concern about the negative effects of social media on children, including mental health issues, sleep disruption, addiction, and exposure to harmful content.

This Australian-led initiative may mark a turning point in how nations approach child protection in the digital age.