European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said today that Europe will start its COVID-19 vaccination drive post-Christmas from December 27.

Watch:

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"It's Europe's moment. On 27, 28 and 29 December vaccination will start across the EU," &nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen said in a tweet.

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It's Europe's moment. 
 
On 27, 28 and 29 December vaccination will start across the EU. 
 
We protect our citizens together. We are <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EUvaccinationdays?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EUvaccinationdays</a> <a href="https://t.co/6VxDumysBL">pic.twitter.com/6VxDumysBL</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1339525459864936450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The European Medicines Agency is set to meet on Monday to authorise the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine even as the UK and US have already begun administering the vaccine amid a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/conspiracy-crackdown-twitter-to-scrub-posts-claiming-covid-19-vaccines-cause-harm-350494">coronavirus </a>cases.

The European Union will be sending out the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-a-silver-bullet-who-calls-for-greater-vigilance-of-covid-19-vaccine-350431">vaccine </a>to all 27 member nations. The EU Commission president had earlier stated that the EU will begin its drive on the same day.

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is being produced at a&nbsp;facility in Belgium and sent out in trucks and planes. The vaccine needs to be stored at -70 degrees Celsius to keep it viable.

Europe has been hit hard with the virus as countries have issued new guidelines ahead of the crucial Christmas season fearing a bigger surge in cases.

The Netherlands, Germany and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-350432">France </a>have introduced new curbs.

Germany had declared earlier that it will begin vaccinations on December 27 ahead of European Commission president's announcement today as the Franch government said that it would receive around 1.16 million vaccine doses by end 2020 and a further 2.3 million over the next two months in 2021.

Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez entered quarantine Thursday after meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron who tested positive for the virus on Thursday. The Spanish PM's wife was infected with the virus in March when the virus began spreading in the country.

Spain has been one of the hardest-hit countries in the EU hit by the virus with over 48,000 fatalities and 1.7 million infected cases. Several countries including Sweden which had earlier contained the virus are now experiencing a new surge as Europe grapples with the virus.

In Sweden on Monday, the number of people receiving hospital care reached 2,406, near the peak of 2,412 in April. The death toll in Sweden due to coronavirus has reached 7,802 with 500 last week and over 1,800 since the beginning of November.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said today that Europe will start its COVID-19 vaccination drive post-Christmas from December 27. Watch: "It's Europe's moment.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said today that Europe will start its COVID-19 vaccination drive post-Christmas from December 27. Watch: "It's Europe's moment. On 27, 28 and 29 December vaccination will start across the EU," Ursula von der Leyen said in a tweet. It's Europe's moment. On 27, 28 and 29 December vaccination will start across the EU. We protect our citizens together. We are #StrongerTogether#EUvaccinationdays pic.twitter.com/6VxDumysBL — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) December 17, 2020 × The European Medicines Agency is set to meet on Monday to authorise the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine even as the UK and US have already begun administering the vaccine amid a surge in coronavirus cases. The European Union will be sending out the vaccine to all 27 member nations. The EU Commission president had earlier stated that the EU will begin its drive on the same day. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is being produced at a facility in Belgium and sent out in trucks and planes. The vaccine needs to be stored at -70 degrees Celsius to keep it viable. Europe has been hit hard with the virus as countries have issued new guidelines ahead of the crucial Christmas season fearing a bigger surge in cases. The Netherlands, Germany and France have introduced new curbs. Germany had declared earlier that it will begin vaccinations on December 27 ahead of European Commission president's announcement today as the Franch government said that it would receive around 1.16 million vaccine doses by end 2020 and a further 2.3 million over the next two months in 2021. Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez entered quarantine Thursday after meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron who tested positive for the virus on Thursday. The Spanish PM's wife was infected with the virus in March when the virus began spreading in the country. Spain has been one of the hardest-hit countries in the EU hit by the virus with over 48,000 fatalities and 1.7 million infected cases. Several countries including Sweden which had earlier contained the virus are now experiencing a new surge as Europe grapples with the virus. In Sweden on Monday, the number of people receiving hospital care reached 2,406, near the peak of 2,412 in April. The death toll in Sweden due to coronavirus has reached 7,802 with 500 last week and over 1,800 since the beginning of November.

'Europe's moment': COVID-19 vaccination to begin on December 27 across EU

Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) on Thursday launched communication satellite CMS-01 carried by PSLV-C50 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.

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Stunning glimpses of today's lift-off<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSLVC50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSLVC50</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CMS01?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CMS01</a> <a href="https://t.co/28FLyOWLM5">pic.twitter.com/28FLyOWLM5</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1339539726269726720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"PSLV-C50 successfully injected into orbit India's latest communication satellite CMS-01," ISRO said.

The communication satellite covers frequency spectrum nationwide including the Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSLVC50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSLVC50</a> lifts off successfully from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CMS01?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CMS01</a> <a href="https://t.co/9uCQIHIapo">pic.twitter.com/9uCQIHIapo</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1339513955476070400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The satellite has a life span of seven years. It is ISRO's second successful launch this year.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CMS01?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CMS01</a> 
Mission Director has authorised for the launch of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSLVC50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSLVC50</a> 
 
Watch the launch live at<a href="https://t.co/G6sAdki5AD">https://t.co/G6sAdki5AD</a> <a href="https://t.co/u7OEQ8nEqy">pic.twitter.com/u7OEQ8nEqy</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1339509861357297665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The satellite will boost India's internet connectivity and disaster management capability.&nbsp;

"As the 25-hour countdown, which began on Wednesday at 2.41 hours, concluded, the launch vehicle PSLV-C50 on its 52nd mission blasted off at 3.41 pm from the second launch pad at the spaceport", ISRO said.

The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) flawlessly put the communication satellite CMS-01 in orbit.

Earlier, ISRO had launched PSLV-C49 (EOS-01) earth observation satellite and nine private spacecraft in&nbsp;November. It was ISRO's first mission since the coronavirus crisis began in the country in March.

Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) on Thursday launched communication satellite CMS-01 carried by PSLV-C50 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.

Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) on Thursday launched communication satellite CMS-01 carried by PSLV-C50 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota. Stunning glimpses of today's lift-off#PSLVC50 #CMS01 pic.twitter.com/28FLyOWLM5 — ISRO (@isro) December 17, 2020 × "PSLV-C50 successfully injected into orbit India's latest communication satellite CMS-01," ISRO said. The communication satellite covers frequency spectrum nationwide including the Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands. #PSLVC50 lifts off successfully from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota#ISRO #CMS01 pic.twitter.com/9uCQIHIapo — ISRO (@isro) December 17, 2020 × The satellite has a life span of seven years. It is ISRO's second successful launch this year. #ISRO #CMS01 Mission Director has authorised for the launch of #PSLVC50 Watch the launch live athttps://t.co/G6sAdki5AD pic.twitter.com/u7OEQ8nEqy — ISRO (@isro) December 17, 2020 × The satellite will boost India's internet connectivity and disaster management capability. "As the 25-hour countdown, which began on Wednesday at 2.41 hours, concluded, the launch vehicle PSLV-C50 on its 52nd mission blasted off at 3.41 pm from the second launch pad at the spaceport", ISRO said. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) flawlessly put the communication satellite CMS-01 in orbit. Earlier, ISRO had launched PSLV-C49 (EOS-01) earth observation satellite and nine private spacecraft in November. It was ISRO's first mission since the coronavirus crisis began in the country in March.

ISRO successfully launches PSLV-C50 rocket carrying communication satellite CMS-01 in orbit

Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-still-hasnt-taken-russias-vaccine-months-after-daughters-inoculation-345192">Putin</a> addressing the annual press conference said that "US President Donald Trump doesn't need to find a new job since almost 50 per cent people have voted for him and he is not going to leave the scene."

Watch:

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On the current Russia-US relations, Putin said, "Russia has become a hostage to the internal politics of US," while adding that he hoped "to resolve disagreements with the US during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-finally-congratulates-joe-biden-on-election-win-says-ready-for-collaboration-349909">Biden's</a> presidency."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-will-get-vaccine-when-possible-wont-comment-on-covid-19-source-350447">Also Read:&nbsp;Putin says will get vaccine when possible; won't comment on Covid-19 source</a>

Putin was asked about possible Russian hacking to which he said that it is "wild conjecture to sour the relationship between the United States and Russia."

"The Russian hackers did not help to get the incumbent President elected and did not interfere into the internal affairs of this great power. These are all hoaxes and pretexts to worsen the relations between Russia and the United States," Putin told reporters.

"It is a pretext not to acknowledge the legitimacy of incumbent President of the United States due to reasons of American internal politics," he added.

"We presume that the newly-elected president of the United States understands what is going on. He is an experienced person, both when it comes to internal and foreign politics," Putin stressed.

"We count that all the issues that emerged not all of them at least some of them will be solved under the new administration," the Russian president hoped as he addressed media persons. 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressing the annual press conference said that "US President Donald Trump doesn't need to find a new job since almost 50 per cent people have voted for him and he is not going to leave the scene.

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressing the annual press conference said that "US President Donald Trump doesn't need to find a new job since almost 50 per cent people have voted for him and he is not going to leave the scene." Watch: On the current Russia-US relations, Putin said, "Russia has become a hostage to the internal politics of US," while adding that he hoped "to resolve disagreements with the US during Biden's presidency." Also Read: Putin says will get vaccine when possible; won't comment on Covid-19 source Putin was asked about possible Russian hacking to which he said that it is "wild conjecture to sour the relationship between the United States and Russia." "The Russian hackers did not help to get the incumbent President elected and did not interfere into the internal affairs of this great power. These are all hoaxes and pretexts to worsen the relations between Russia and the United States," Putin told reporters. "It is a pretext not to acknowledge the legitimacy of incumbent President of the United States due to reasons of American internal politics," he added. "We presume that the newly-elected president of the United States understands what is going on. He is an experienced person, both when it comes to internal and foreign politics," Putin stressed. "We count that all the issues that emerged not all of them at least some of them will be solved under the new administration," the Russian president hoped as he addressed media persons.

Trump doesn't need to find a new job, he is not going to leave the scene: Putin

The interim findings of phase 1 clinical trial of COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, indigenously developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the ICMR, showed that it was was well tolerated in all dose groups with no serious or adverse events.

The vaccine induced robust binding and neutralising antibody responses which were comparable to those observed in the convalescent serum collected from patients who had recovered from COVID-19, according to the findings which have appeared on medRxiv, a preprint server.

A preprint is a version of a scientific manuscript posted on a public server prior to formal peer review. One serious adverse event was reported, which was found to be unrelated to vaccination, the findings showed.

It was a double-blind randomised controlled phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of Covaxin (BBV152).

The document mentions that BBV152 is stored between 2 degrees Celsius and 8 degrees Celsius, which is compatible with all national immunisation programme cold chain requirements and further efficacy trials are underway.

According to the "A Phase 1: Safety and Immunogenicity Trial of an Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine BBV152", after the first vaccination, local and systemic adverse events were predominantly mild or moderate in severity and resolved rapidly, without any prescribed medication.

A similar trend was observed after the second shot was administered. Pain at the injection site was the most common local adverse event.

"One serious adverse event was reported. The participant was vaccinated on July 30. Five days later, the participant reported symptoms of COVID-19 and was found to be positive for SARS-CoV-2," according to the findings.

"The symptoms were mild in nature, but the patient was admitted to the hospital on August 15. The participant was discharged on August 22 following a negative nucleic acid result. The event was not causally associated with the vaccine," the findings showed.

To ensure generalisability, the trial was conducted on volunteers from diverse geographic locations and socioeconomic conditions, enrolling 375 participants across 11 hospitals.

"Despite the fact that enrolment occurred during a national lockdown, which led to several operational challenges, the overall participant retention rate was 97 per cent," the findings showed.

The sample size was intentionally large to enable the inference of meaningful conclusions regarding immunogenicity and safety, the document said.

BBV152 induced robust binding and neutralising antibody responses that were similar to those induced by other SARS-CoV-2 inactivated vaccine candidates, it said.

Two doses of the vaccine were administered at a volume of 0.5 mL/dose intramuscularly on days zero and 14. The follow-up visits were scheduled on days 7, 28, 42, 104, and 194.

The interim findings of phase 1 clinical trial of COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, indigenously developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the ICMR, showed that it was was well tolerated in all dose groups with no serious or adverse events.

The interim findings of phase 1 clinical trial of COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, indigenously developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the ICMR, showed that it was was well tolerated in all dose groups with no serious or adverse events. The vaccine induced robust binding and neutralising antibody responses which were comparable to those observed in the convalescent serum collected from patients who had recovered from COVID-19, according to the findings which have appeared on medRxiv, a preprint server. A preprint is a version of a scientific manuscript posted on a public server prior to formal peer review. One serious adverse event was reported, which was found to be unrelated to vaccination, the findings showed. It was a double-blind randomised controlled phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of Covaxin (BBV152). The document mentions that BBV152 is stored between 2 degrees Celsius and 8 degrees Celsius, which is compatible with all national immunisation programme cold chain requirements and further efficacy trials are underway. According to the "A Phase 1: Safety and Immunogenicity Trial of an Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine BBV152", after the first vaccination, local and systemic adverse events were predominantly mild or moderate in severity and resolved rapidly, without any prescribed medication. A similar trend was observed after the second shot was administered. Pain at the injection site was the most common local adverse event. "One serious adverse event was reported. The participant was vaccinated on July 30. Five days later, the participant reported symptoms of COVID-19 and was found to be positive for SARS-CoV-2," according to the findings. "The symptoms were mild in nature, but the patient was admitted to the hospital on August 15. The participant was discharged on August 22 following a negative nucleic acid result. The event was not causally associated with the vaccine," the findings showed. To ensure generalisability, the trial was conducted on volunteers from diverse geographic locations and socioeconomic conditions, enrolling 375 participants across 11 hospitals. "Despite the fact that enrolment occurred during a national lockdown, which led to several operational challenges, the overall participant retention rate was 97 per cent," the findings showed. The sample size was intentionally large to enable the inference of meaningful conclusions regarding immunogenicity and safety, the document said. BBV152 induced robust binding and neutralising antibody responses that were similar to those induced by other SARS-CoV-2 inactivated vaccine candidates, it said. Two doses of the vaccine were administered at a volume of 0.5 mL/dose intramuscularly on days zero and 14. The follow-up visits were scheduled on days 7, 28, 42, 104, and 194.

Bharat Biotech's phase 1 trial findings show COVID-19 vaccine well tolerated; no serious adverse events

A London court has ruled that nine-year-old died Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah died in nation's capital due to air pollution as it made "made a material contribution" to her death.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-pollution-does-not-respect-borders-regional-cooperation-required-experts-317191">Also Read:&nbsp;Air pollution does not respect borders, regional cooperation required, say&nbsp;experts</a>

It is the first instance when air pollution has been listed as the cause of death in the UK.

Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah had died after an asthma attack, she was taken to the hospital several times earlier.

Coroner Philip Barlow said: "Air pollution made a material contribution to Ella's death, she was exposed to levels of nitrogen dioxide in excess of World Health Organization guidelines. The principal source of her exposure was traffic emissions."

An enquiry earlier had said that the nine-year-old Ella had died of acute respiratory failure.

London mayor Sadiq Khan said: "Toxic air pollution is a public health crisis. Today it was confirmed to have played a role in the tragic death of 9-year-old Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah seven years ago."

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This is a landmark moment and thanks to years of campaigning by Ella’s mother Rosamund, who has shown an extraordinary amount of courage. I'm pleased to have supported the family in their efforts to secure justice. Today must now be a turning point. 1/2 <a href="https://t.co/QH8bnvx0SB">https://t.co/QH8bnvx0SB</a>
— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/SadiqKhan/status/1339183988594925570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"This must be a turning point so that no one else has to suffer the same heartbreak as Ella’s family," the London mayor added. "The government must learn the lessons from this ruling, and do much more to tackle deadly air pollution in London &amp; across our country," he said.

Ella's lawyers had informed the court that air pollution level around the girl's home consistently broke EU limits three years before her death. Ella, then a six-year-old, was reportedly taken to hospital in 2010 as her coughing worsened.

In 2012, Ella was reportedly classified as "disabled" with her condiction on knife's edge.

A London court has ruled that nine-year-old died Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah died in nation's capital due to air pollution as it made "made a material contribution" to her death.

A London court has ruled that nine-year-old died Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah died in nation's capital due to air pollution as it made "made a material contribution" to her death. Also Read: Air pollution does not respect borders, regional cooperation required, say experts It is the first instance when air pollution has been listed as the cause of death in the UK. Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah had died after an asthma attack, she was taken to the hospital several times earlier. Coroner Philip Barlow said: "Air pollution made a material contribution to Ella's death, she was exposed to levels of nitrogen dioxide in excess of World Health Organization guidelines. The principal source of her exposure was traffic emissions." An enquiry earlier had said that the nine-year-old Ella had died of acute respiratory failure. London mayor Sadiq Khan said: "Toxic air pollution is a public health crisis. Today it was confirmed to have played a role in the tragic death of 9-year-old Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah seven years ago." This is a landmark moment and thanks to years of campaigning by Ella’s mother Rosamund, who has shown an extraordinary amount of courage. I'm pleased to have supported the family in their efforts to secure justice. Today must now be a turning point. 1/2 https://t.co/QH8bnvx0SB — Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) December 16, 2020 × "This must be a turning point so that no one else has to suffer the same heartbreak as Ella’s family," the London mayor added. "The government must learn the lessons from this ruling, and do much more to tackle deadly air pollution in London & across our country," he said. Ella's lawyers had informed the court that air pollution level around the girl's home consistently broke EU limits three years before her death. Ella, then a six-year-old, was reportedly taken to hospital in 2010 as her coughing worsened. In 2012, Ella was reportedly classified as "disabled" with her condiction on knife's edge.

In a first, UK court rules nine-year-old girl died due to air pollution

In Pakistan, a new law to curb rape and sexual abuse has been making headlines.&nbsp;The law provides for chemical castration of serial rapists.

Pakistan is a country where the prime minister himself has been accused of sexual harassment.

In less than three months since Imran Khan floated the idea, his administration has brought it to life: serial rapists in Pakistan will be chemically castrated.

Pakistan's President Arif Alvi has signed it into law. An anti-rape ordinance was approved by Imran Khan's cabinet.

Under this law, anti-rape crisis cells will be set up to conduct medico-legal examination of rape victims within six hours of the crime. A nationwide registry of repeat sexual offenders will be set up with verdicts in rape cases to be delivered within four months of trial.

Disclosing a rape victim's identity will now be a punishable offence and repeat offenders will be chemically castrated.

Chemical castration is the practice of suppressing sexual desire in rape convicts. It involves the use of medication to reduce testosterone levels. It does not involve the removal of organs nor is it a form of sterilisation.

Pakistan's decision follows months of outcry by women over rising rape cases. In September, a woman was assaulted and raped by multiple men in front of her two children. The horrific crime sparked nationwide outrage.

"We see the government coming out for whatever the Mullahs [religious leaders] want to say, they come out and they protest and the government just listens to them," Zarka Khan, a student, said.

"You think twice about what you're going to wear when you leave, you can't walk on the street for more than five minutes without being molested by a bunch of eyes," Eiman Faisal, a student, said on the state of affairs.

The Pakistan government may have finally acted under pressure but reforming a crippled system and society is no easy task - a system where police officials blame rape victims for stepping out late at night and a society where clerics publicly shame women for the way they dress and behave.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan himself has been accused. In 2017, a PTI lawmaker Ayesha Gulalai accused Imran Khan of sexual harassment on several occasions. The lawmaker faced a wave of abuse by Imran Khan's followers as she was hounded and subsequently forced to quit the party.

In Pakistan, a new law to curb rape and sexual abuse has been making headlines. The law provides for chemical castration of serial rapists. Pakistan is a country where the prime minister himself has been accused of sexual harassment.

In Pakistan, a new law to curb rape and sexual abuse has been making headlines. The law provides for chemical castration of serial rapists. Pakistan is a country where the prime minister himself has been accused of sexual harassment. In less than three months since Imran Khan floated the idea, his administration has brought it to life: serial rapists in Pakistan will be chemically castrated. Pakistan's President Arif Alvi has signed it into law. An anti-rape ordinance was approved by Imran Khan's cabinet. Under this law, anti-rape crisis cells will be set up to conduct medico-legal examination of rape victims within six hours of the crime. A nationwide registry of repeat sexual offenders will be set up with verdicts in rape cases to be delivered within four months of trial. Disclosing a rape victim's identity will now be a punishable offence and repeat offenders will be chemically castrated. Chemical castration is the practice of suppressing sexual desire in rape convicts. It involves the use of medication to reduce testosterone levels. It does not involve the removal of organs nor is it a form of sterilisation. Pakistan's decision follows months of outcry by women over rising rape cases. In September, a woman was assaulted and raped by multiple men in front of her two children. The horrific crime sparked nationwide outrage. "We see the government coming out for whatever the Mullahs [religious leaders] want to say, they come out and they protest and the government just listens to them," Zarka Khan, a student, said. "You think twice about what you're going to wear when you leave, you can't walk on the street for more than five minutes without being molested by a bunch of eyes," Eiman Faisal, a student, said on the state of affairs. The Pakistan government may have finally acted under pressure but reforming a crippled system and society is no easy task - a system where police officials blame rape victims for stepping out late at night and a society where clerics publicly shame women for the way they dress and behave. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan himself has been accused. In 2017, a PTI lawmaker Ayesha Gulalai accused Imran Khan of sexual harassment on several occasions. The lawmaker faced a wave of abuse by Imran Khan's followers as she was hounded and subsequently forced to quit the party.

PM Imran Khan in spotlight as Pakistan passes new rape law

The Saudi dream was fuelled by oil, however, now the oil market has been drying up and terrorism has become a big challenge.

There is also a change in the geopolitical landscape with the Arab world normalising ties with Israel and at home, there is a leadership transition.

Crown prince Mohammad bin Salman is changing the power structure in the al Saud, or the house of Saud. He has been challenging the old order while appointing a new generation of princes to key positions including his own sibling Abdulaziz bin Salman and Khalid bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia has been witnessing change on many levels and the challenge before Riyadh is how it adapts to this change. Mohammad bin Salman became Saudi Arabia's minister of defence in 2015. In 2017, he was appointed the crown prince. His rise has been defined by change and established by a purge also a series of reforms and risky gambles.

MBS wanted to bring the Kingdom closer to the world, so he allowed women to drive, opened the Kingdom's doors to concerts and movie theatres.

The crown prince also curtailed the power of the religious police. Saudis were no longer regulated by strict gender segregation rules. Riyadh allowed women to obtain a passport and travel abroad without the permission of a male relative and open businesses.

In 2016, MBS announced his vision 2030. He sought to restructure, diversify and privatise the Kingdom's economy. The crown prince kick-started the development of non-oil revenues. The move helped cushion the pandemic's impact a little.

In 2020, Riyadh moved ahead with its economic reforms. Saudi Arabia's sovereign fund invested $1.3 billion in India. The reforms continued on the domestic front too. Earlier this year, Riyadh banned flogging as a punishment. It has also done away with the death penalty for crimes committed by minors and recently revised textbooks to make them more tolerant.

It has also facilitated major diplomatic changes in the region. In the middle of the pandemic, four Arab countries normalised ties with Israel - the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morroco. The deals could not have happened without Saudi Arabia's backing.

Under MBS, Saudi Arabia is changing and dramatically, some of the reforms have been pushed by the crown prince and the rest has been forced by the pandemic.

The Saudi dream was fuelled by oil, however, now the oil market has been drying up and terrorism has become a big challenge. There is also a change in the geopolitical landscape with the Arab world normalising ties with Israel and at home, there is a leadership transition.

The Saudi dream was fuelled by oil, however, now the oil market has been drying up and terrorism has become a big challenge. There is also a change in the geopolitical landscape with the Arab world normalising ties with Israel and at home, there is a leadership transition. Crown prince Mohammad bin Salman is changing the power structure in the al Saud, or the house of Saud. He has been challenging the old order while appointing a new generation of princes to key positions including his own sibling Abdulaziz bin Salman and Khalid bin Salman. Saudi Arabia has been witnessing change on many levels and the challenge before Riyadh is how it adapts to this change. Mohammad bin Salman became Saudi Arabia's minister of defence in 2015. In 2017, he was appointed the crown prince. His rise has been defined by change and established by a purge also a series of reforms and risky gambles. MBS wanted to bring the Kingdom closer to the world, so he allowed women to drive, opened the Kingdom's doors to concerts and movie theatres. The crown prince also curtailed the power of the religious police. Saudis were no longer regulated by strict gender segregation rules. Riyadh allowed women to obtain a passport and travel abroad without the permission of a male relative and open businesses. In 2016, MBS announced his vision 2030. He sought to restructure, diversify and privatise the Kingdom's economy. The crown prince kick-started the development of non-oil revenues. The move helped cushion the pandemic's impact a little. In 2020, Riyadh moved ahead with its economic reforms. Saudi Arabia's sovereign fund invested $1.3 billion in India. The reforms continued on the domestic front too. Earlier this year, Riyadh banned flogging as a punishment. It has also done away with the death penalty for crimes committed by minors and recently revised textbooks to make them more tolerant. It has also facilitated major diplomatic changes in the region. In the middle of the pandemic, four Arab countries normalised ties with Israel - the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morroco. The deals could not have happened without Saudi Arabia's backing. Under MBS, Saudi Arabia is changing and dramatically, some of the reforms have been pushed by the crown prince and the rest has been forced by the pandemic.

Amid pandemic, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman challenges Saudi Arabia's old order

A Paris court on Wednesday sentenced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-the-vatican-protected-priests-involved-in-child-sex-abuse-342467">Vatican's</a> former ambassador to France Luigi Ventura to an eight-month suspended jail term after he was found guilty in sexual assault against five men.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-vatican-covered-up-archbishop-theodore-mccarrick-teen-sexual-assault-case-342481">Also Read:&nbsp;How Vatican covered up Archbishop Theodore McCarrick teen sexual assault case</a>

The Vatican had earlier lifted Ventura's immunity as he was put on trial. The court ordered Ventura to pay 13,000 euros in damages and he will now appear on France's sex offenders register.

Vatican's ex-ambassador to France wasn't present during sentencing, he wasn't present during the proceedings as well after his lawyers told the court that his doctor had advised him against travelling from Italy to France due to the health risks amid the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaticans-former-france-envoy-luigi-ventura-on-trial-for-sexual-assault-342147">Ventura</a>, 75, had resigned from the Vatican last year after reaching his retirement age. He was stationed in Paris since 2009.

The prosecution had earlier sought a 10-month suspended jail sentence. The allegations against him first surfaced in February 2019 after a person accused him of touching his buttocks three times during a New Year's ceremony in January 2019.

Four other men later came forward with similar allegations against Ventura including a senior foreign ministry official.&nbsp;

A Paris court on Wednesday sentenced Vatican's former ambassador to France Luigi Ventura to an eight-month suspended jail term after he was found guilty in sexual assault against five men.

A Paris court on Wednesday sentenced Vatican's former ambassador to France Luigi Ventura to an eight-month suspended jail term after he was found guilty in sexual assault against five men. Also Read: How Vatican covered up Archbishop Theodore McCarrick teen sexual assault case The Vatican had earlier lifted Ventura's immunity as he was put on trial. The court ordered Ventura to pay 13,000 euros in damages and he will now appear on France's sex offenders register. Vatican's ex-ambassador to France wasn't present during sentencing, he wasn't present during the proceedings as well after his lawyers told the court that his doctor had advised him against travelling from Italy to France due to the health risks amid the coronavirus pandemic. Ventura, 75, had resigned from the Vatican last year after reaching his retirement age. He was stationed in Paris since 2009. The prosecution had earlier sought a 10-month suspended jail sentence. The allegations against him first surfaced in February 2019 after a person accused him of touching his buttocks three times during a New Year's ceremony in January 2019. Four other men later came forward with similar allegations against Ventura including a senior foreign ministry official.

Vatican's ex-envoy to France Luigi Ventura sentenced over sex assaults

The US State Department said today that Secretary of State Mike <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sowing-chaos-and-conflict-in-mediterranean-region-says-pompeo-349998">Pompeo</a> was in quarantine after he was exposed to a person who had tested positive for coronavirus.

Watch:

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Reports had said earlier that Pompeo and his wife had hosted an event on Tuesday for diplomats and their families in Washington. According to reports, 900 invites were sent but very few people turned up but the event went ahead as planned.

"The Secretary of State has been tested and is negative. In accordance with CDC guidelines, he will be in quarantine. He is being closely monitored by the Department's medical team," the State Department said.

However, the State Department hasn't specified the person Pompeo came in contact with which led to the US secretary of state to go in for quarantine. US government authorities have generally discouraged officials from hosting parties for fear of it turning out to be super spreaders.

According to reports, Pompeo was scheduled to speak at the event but cancelled his speech.

US President Donald Trump had contacted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-expands-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-rollout-reassure-its-safety-350100">virus</a> in October and was hospitalized but later released as he recovered and did not show symptoms.&nbsp;

Pompeo is fourth in the line of succession as the head of government after the US president, vice president, Speaker of the House of Representatives and president pro tempore of the Senate.

The United States is the worst-hit country with the virus with over 16 million coronavirus cases and over 303, 9400 cases.&nbsp;

The US State Department said today that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was in quarantine after he was exposed to a person who had tested positive for coronavirus.

The US State Department said today that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was in quarantine after he was exposed to a person who had tested positive for coronavirus. Watch: Reports had said earlier that Pompeo and his wife had hosted an event on Tuesday for diplomats and their families in Washington. According to reports, 900 invites were sent but very few people turned up but the event went ahead as planned. "The Secretary of State has been tested and is negative. In accordance with CDC guidelines, he will be in quarantine. He is being closely monitored by the Department's medical team," the State Department said. However, the State Department hasn't specified the person Pompeo came in contact with which led to the US secretary of state to go in for quarantine. US government authorities have generally discouraged officials from hosting parties for fear of it turning out to be super spreaders. According to reports, Pompeo was scheduled to speak at the event but cancelled his speech. US President Donald Trump had contacted the virus in October and was hospitalized but later released as he recovered and did not show symptoms. Pompeo is fourth in the line of succession as the head of government after the US president, vice president, Speaker of the House of Representatives and president pro tempore of the Senate. The United States is the worst-hit country with the virus with over 16 million coronavirus cases and over 303, 9400 cases.

Pompeo in quarantine after contact with COVID-positive person: US State Department

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-hong-kong-lawmaker-seeks-asylum-in-us-349342">Hong Kong </a>government today had civil servants take the "loyalty test" as they were asked to take an oath to promise to uphold the city's constitution and "bear allegiance" to the government.

Watch:

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Reports said Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam was present as the ceremony closed-door ceremony for the pledge as the government said it would "strengthen the public's confidence in political-appointed officials".

Several hundred thousand civil servants are expected to take the oath in the coming weeks, reports say.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-revokes-visa-exemptions-for-us-diplomats-visiting-hong-kong-macau-348888">Hong Kong </a>has witnessed huge anti-government protests over the last one and half years with demonstrators demanding more transparency from the government. In June, China's legislature passed the controversial national security bill leading to worldwide condemnation.

Last weekend, Hong Kong police media tycoon and Beijing critic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-concerned-says-uk-after-hong-kong-media-tycoon-produced-in-court-349319">Jimmy Lai</a>,73, of "collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security" under the national security law imposed by China.

The six magistrates looking into charges against Lai have been appointed by the city Chief Executive Carrie Lam.

The police have reportedly alleged that d Lai had followed 53 people on Twitter including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen including Tiananmen student protest leaders Wang Dan and Wuer Kai Xi.

According to reports, the police has also accused Lai of publishing remarks targeted at China and Hong Kong through Twitter after the national security law came into force in Hong Kong.

At least two dozen have been arrested under the national security law and four have so far been officially charged.

The Hong Kong government today had civil servants take the "loyalty test" as they were asked to take an oath to promise to uphold the city's constitution and "bear allegiance" to the government.

The Hong Kong government today had civil servants take the "loyalty test" as they were asked to take an oath to promise to uphold the city's constitution and "bear allegiance" to the government. Watch: Reports said Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam was present as the ceremony closed-door ceremony for the pledge as the government said it would "strengthen the public's confidence in political-appointed officials". Several hundred thousand civil servants are expected to take the oath in the coming weeks, reports say. Hong Kong has witnessed huge anti-government protests over the last one and half years with demonstrators demanding more transparency from the government. In June, China's legislature passed the controversial national security bill leading to worldwide condemnation. Last weekend, Hong Kong police media tycoon and Beijing critic Jimmy Lai,73, of "collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security" under the national security law imposed by China. The six magistrates looking into charges against Lai have been appointed by the city Chief Executive Carrie Lam. The police have reportedly alleged that d Lai had followed 53 people on Twitter including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen including Tiananmen student protest leaders Wang Dan and Wuer Kai Xi. According to reports, the police has also accused Lai of publishing remarks targeted at China and Hong Kong through Twitter after the national security law came into force in Hong Kong. At least two dozen have been arrested under the national security law and four have so far been officially charged.

Now, Hong Kong civil servants made to pledge loyalty to government

As the worldwide death toll due to coronavirus continues to rise, the World Health Organization(WHO) its team of international experts will travel to China in January to investigate the animal origins of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-records-highest-covid-19-death-toll-on-first-day-of-partial-lockdown-350210">coronavirus</a>.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/curtain-falls-on-londons-theatres-again-due-to-covid-19-350228/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Amid the rising number of cases, the WHO said that, "There is a high risk of further resurgence in the first weeks and months of 2021, and we will need to work together if we are to succeed in preventing it, adding,"COVID-19 transmission across the European region remains widespread and intense."

The WHO had said earlier that it in discussion with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-expands-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-rollout-reassure-its-safety-350100">Pfizer-BioNTech</a> and Moderna to ensure the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/possibility-of-adverse-event-after-covid-19-vaccination-cant-be-ruled-out-government-350031">vaccine</a> reaches poor nations. The UK has already begun vaccination with the US FDA has given the green signal to US Pfizer-BioNTech. The FDA is expected to give the go-ahead to Moderna within days.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had earlier warned that Christmas festivities could turn into "sadness" if the right precautions aren't taken.

"As you prepare to celebrate over the coming weeks, please, please consider your plans carefully. If you live in an area with high transmission, please take every precaution to keep yourselves and others safe," the WHO chief said, adding,"that could be the best gift you could give - the gift of health."

With vaccines imminent, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said that EU countries aim to start coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-debates-does-burying-coronavirus-victims-contaminate-ground-water-350010">vaccine </a>on the same day as a sign of unity.

"Finally, within a week, the first vaccine will be authorised so that vaccinations can start immediately, and more will follow in the new year," the European Commission chief said.

The global <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-invokes-emergency-to-stop-by-elections-as-covid-19-cases-rise-350158">COVID-19 </a>death toll has reached over 1.6 million with over 73 million infected cases as governments across the world prepare for a mass vaccine rollout.&nbsp;

The United States is the worst-hit country with the virus with over 16 million infection cases and over 303,8600 deaths.

As the worldwide death toll due to coronavirus continues to rise, the World Health Organization(WHO) its team of international experts will travel to China in January to investigate the animal origins of coronavirus.

As the worldwide death toll due to coronavirus continues to rise, the World Health Organization(WHO) its team of international experts will travel to China in January to investigate the animal origins of coronavirus. Watch: Amid the rising number of cases, the WHO said that, "There is a high risk of further resurgence in the first weeks and months of 2021, and we will need to work together if we are to succeed in preventing it, adding,"COVID-19 transmission across the European region remains widespread and intense." The WHO had said earlier that it in discussion with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna to ensure the vaccine reaches poor nations. The UK has already begun vaccination with the US FDA has given the green signal to US Pfizer-BioNTech. The FDA is expected to give the go-ahead to Moderna within days. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had earlier warned that Christmas festivities could turn into "sadness" if the right precautions aren't taken. "As you prepare to celebrate over the coming weeks, please, please consider your plans carefully. If you live in an area with high transmission, please take every precaution to keep yourselves and others safe," the WHO chief said, adding,"that could be the best gift you could give - the gift of health." With vaccines imminent, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said that EU countries aim to start coronavirus vaccine on the same day as a sign of unity. "Finally, within a week, the first vaccine will be authorised so that vaccinations can start immediately, and more will follow in the new year," the European Commission chief said. The global COVID-19 death toll has reached over 1.6 million with over 73 million infected cases as governments across the world prepare for a mass vaccine rollout. The United States is the worst-hit country with the virus with over 16 million infection cases and over 303,8600 deaths.

World Health Organization experts to visit China next month to investigate animal origins of coronavirus

As Germany entered into a new partial lockdown, the death toll due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-in-10-spaniards-have-had-covid-19-nationwide-antibody-study-shows-350064">coronavirus</a> shot up to 952 in the last 24 hours which is the highest since the outbreak of the virus in the country.

Watch:

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The number of infected cases in Germany has risen to over 1.3 million with 23,427 fatalities.

Germany which had earlier reigned in the virus has seen cases skyrocket in recent months with Saxony being the hardest-hit region in recent days. Amid the rise in cases, COVID-19-related hospitalizations have also shot up.

The Merkel government has put down strict guidelines for partial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-pharmaceutical-company-fosun-pharma-to-buy-100-million-doses-of-biontechs-covid-19-vaccine-350176">lockdown</a> measures which include closures of schools and non-essential shops. The latest restrictions is set to continue post-Christmas and into the new year until at least January 10.

The government has also put severe social restrictions in place during Christmas between December 24-26. New Year eve festivities have also been curtailed with the sale of fireworks and gatherings banned.

Chancellor Merkel has been left with the difficult choice during the Christmas holiday season as she declared that "evolution of the pandemic remains unpredictable" while adding that "vaccine will help us".

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had told European officials that, "To get to the end of the pandemic, we will need up to 70 per cent of the population vaccinated."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the World Health Organizations(WHO) has urged masks to be worn by citizens for Christmas family gatherings in Europe. The UN health body declared that there is a "high risk" of virus resurgence in Europe in early 2021.

Europe has been reeling with the virus with France, Denmark and several other European countries imposing tighter restrictions over the Christmas holiday season.

As Germany entered into a new partial lockdown, the death toll due to coronavirus shot up to 952 in the last 24 hours which is the highest since the outbreak of the virus in the country.

As Germany entered into a new partial lockdown, the death toll due to coronavirus shot up to 952 in the last 24 hours which is the highest since the outbreak of the virus in the country. Watch: The number of infected cases in Germany has risen to over 1.3 million with 23,427 fatalities. Germany which had earlier reigned in the virus has seen cases skyrocket in recent months with Saxony being the hardest-hit region in recent days. Amid the rise in cases, COVID-19-related hospitalizations have also shot up. The Merkel government has put down strict guidelines for partial lockdown measures which include closures of schools and non-essential shops. The latest restrictions is set to continue post-Christmas and into the new year until at least January 10. The government has also put severe social restrictions in place during Christmas between December 24-26. New Year eve festivities have also been curtailed with the sale of fireworks and gatherings banned. Chancellor Merkel has been left with the difficult choice during the Christmas holiday season as she declared that "evolution of the pandemic remains unpredictable" while adding that "vaccine will help us". European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had told European officials that, "To get to the end of the pandemic, we will need up to 70 per cent of the population vaccinated." Meanwhile, the World Health Organizations(WHO) has urged masks to be worn by citizens for Christmas family gatherings in Europe. The UN health body declared that there is a "high risk" of virus resurgence in Europe in early 2021. Europe has been reeling with the virus with France, Denmark and several other European countries imposing tighter restrictions over the Christmas holiday season.

Germany records highest COVID-19 death toll on first day of partial lockdown

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