The controversial UK migrant law is under the radar once again. The National Audit Office has warned the plans to make the asylum system more efficient as it is not working and said that the Asylum system plans are not on track.

UK: Critical report on migration law; National Audit Office says, 'asylum system plans not on track'

The debates around the enactment & implementation of a Uniform Civil Code often flare up. The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) calls for the formulation of one civil law for India. The laws would apply to all religious communities. The Law Commission of India is seeking suggestions from public & religious organisations.

India's Law Commission seeks fresh suggestions on Uniform Civil Code

In a historic move, the European Parliament voted in favour of placing regulations on the usage of artificial intelligence (AI) systems across the bloc of nations on Wednesday.

The voting has started the process of passing the Artificial Intelligence Act of the European Union, which will be the first of its kind ever-introduced globally.&nbsp;

The law has been drafted to protect fundamental civil rights and safeguard people from the threats they face to health and safety due to AI while fostering simultaneously innovation of the technology.&nbsp; 
 
During vote, the parliament adopted the AI Act with 499 votes in favour, 28 against and 93 abstentions. The regulation is far from becoming law, but it is likely to be one of the first formal rules for the technology globally.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-nuclear-weapon-of-software-wion-speaks-to-deepai-founder-kevin-baragona-602187">AI is the 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona</a>

<h2>How will the new law work?</h2>

The measures, which have been in discussion since 2021, but gained momentum after the emergence of popular AI chatbots like the ChatGPT, would classify the systems based on AI based on the four levels of risk, which range from minimal to unacceptable.

The law is aimed at protecting people from social scoring systems that can judge them based on their appearance or their behaviour, and applications which can engage in vulnerable people's subliminal manipulation.&nbsp;

The officials are also considering the predictive policing tools, that use data to forecast potential perpetrators of crimes in future, as a no-go, while the ban on remote facial recognition and biometric identification in public has been widened by the lawmakers.&nbsp;

<h2>What will happen to ChatGPT?</h2>

The majority of systems, based on AI, which has already become a part of the everyday lives of people, including video games, spam filters or text generators such as ChatGTP, &nbsp;have been kept in the low- or no-risk category.

"We don't want mass surveillance, we don't want social scoring, we don't want predictive policing in the European Union, full stop. That's what China does, not us," said Dragos Tudorache, a Romanian member of the European Parliament who is co-leading its work on the AI Act.

WATCH |&nbsp;European Union Parliament passes world's first law on A-I rules

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<h2>How will the measures be enforced by the EU?&nbsp;</h2>

Companies found violating the laws will have to pay fines of up to €30 million ($33 million) or 6 per cent of their annual global revenue, which can go up to billions in the case of tech giants like Google and Microsoft.

The 27 member states of the EU will enforce the rules, which lawmakers believe will be seen as a constructive framework by the powerful AI developers within which they can further develop the technology. 
 
Generative AI developers will be required to submit their systems for review before releasing them commercially.

"We as a union are doing something that I think is truly historic, which is to bring about rules and guardrails for the evolution of a technology that has a lot of potential for good in our economies," lawmaker Tudorache said while speaking to DW.&nbsp;

"At the same time, we see more and more risks. What we're doing with this legislation is to try and curtail these risks, mitigate them and put very clear rules in place that will ensure transparency and trust," he added.

<h2>What will be the next steps?</h2>

The new AI laws of the EU still need final approval from national parliamentarians and member states, which is not likely to happen till 2025.&nbsp;

"It's true that these laws will not come into effect by the elections next year, but we have other rules that are already in place. But if we craft this legislation right, if we articulate the obligations and the rights in these regulations the right way, they will stand the test of time. We are not regulating the technology itself, we are regulating the use of technology – and that transparency is the same and it's going to be the same now or in five years' time," said Tudorache. 
&nbsp;

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In a historic move, the European Parliament voted in favour of placing regulations on the usage of artificial intelligence (AI) systems across the bloc of nations on Wednesday.

In a historic move, the European Parliament voted in favour of placing regulations on the usage of artificial intelligence (AI) systems across the bloc of nations on Wednesday. The voting has started the process of passing the Artificial Intelligence Act of the European Union, which will be the first of its kind ever-introduced globally. The law has been drafted to protect fundamental civil rights and safeguard people from the threats they face to health and safety due to AI while fostering simultaneously innovation of the technology. During vote, the parliament adopted the AI Act with 499 votes in favour, 28 against and 93 abstentions. The regulation is far from becoming law, but it is likely to be one of the first formal rules for the technology globally. ALSO READ | AI is the 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona How will the new law work? The measures, which have been in discussion since 2021, but gained momentum after the emergence of popular AI chatbots like the ChatGPT, would classify the systems based on AI based on the four levels of risk, which range from minimal to unacceptable. The law is aimed at protecting people from social scoring systems that can judge them based on their appearance or their behaviour, and applications which can engage in vulnerable people's subliminal manipulation. The officials are also considering the predictive policing tools, that use data to forecast potential perpetrators of crimes in future, as a no-go, while the ban on remote facial recognition and biometric identification in public has been widened by the lawmakers. What will happen to ChatGPT? The majority of systems, based on AI, which has already become a part of the everyday lives of people, including video games, spam filters or text generators such as ChatGTP, have been kept in the low- or no-risk category. "We don't want mass surveillance, we don't want social scoring, we don't want predictive policing in the European Union, full stop. That's what China does, not us," said Dragos Tudorache, a Romanian member of the European Parliament who is co-leading its work on the AI Act. WATCH | European Union Parliament passes world's first law on A-I rules How will the measures be enforced by the EU? Companies found violating the laws will have to pay fines of up to €30 million ($33 million) or 6 per cent of their annual global revenue, which can go up to billions in the case of tech giants like Google and Microsoft. The 27 member states of the EU will enforce the rules, which lawmakers believe will be seen as a constructive framework by the powerful AI developers within which they can further develop the technology. Generative AI developers will be required to submit their systems for review before releasing them commercially. "We as a union are doing something that I think is truly historic, which is to bring about rules and guardrails for the evolution of a technology that has a lot of potential for good in our economies," lawmaker Tudorache said while speaking to DW. "At the same time, we see more and more risks. What we're doing with this legislation is to try and curtail these risks, mitigate them and put very clear rules in place that will ensure transparency and trust," he added. What will be the next steps? The new AI laws of the EU still need final approval from national parliamentarians and member states, which is not likely to happen till 2025. "It's true that these laws will not come into effect by the elections next year, but we have other rules that are already in place. But if we craft this legislation right, if we articulate the obligations and the rights in these regulations the right way, they will stand the test of time. We are not regulating the technology itself, we are regulating the use of technology – and that transparency is the same and it's going to be the same now or in five years' time," said Tudorache. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

European Parliament votes in favour of regulating use of AI across bloc

For the first time since the position's inception more than 750 years ago, the next lord chief justice of Britain will be a woman.&nbsp;The final two candidates to lead the judiciary in England and Wales are Dame Sue Carr, 58, an appeal court judge, and Dame Victoria Sharp, 67, a senior high court judge.

Since Lord Chief Justice is currently a title only used by men, British constitutional law may need to be changed to accommodate the title "Lady Chief Justice," reported the Daily Mail.

Since the position was first created in 1268, more than 100 men have held it.

<h2>First woman to fill the position</h2>

However, the first woman to fill the position is anticipated to be announced within the next two weeks by Alex Chalk, the Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary.

Before Chalk and the Prime Minister's final decision is approved by the King, a carefully curated&nbsp;panel narrowed the field of candidates down to the top two.

The leading candidate to succeed departing Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett is Dame Victoria Sharp, whose twin brother is former Goldman Sachs financier Richard Sharp, who resigned as BBC chairman last month.

She is known for putting in long hours; she and her doctor husband sometimes work 14-hour days while raising their four children. In court, she once even experienced labour.

When she was awarded a law doctorate at Bristol University, academic Professor David Clarke said of her: 'She was convinced that if she had not dedicated herself to her job as she did by rejecting any leave on the birth of any of her children, she would have been significantly disadvantaged; as she puts it, if you were not there in chambers, you did not receive briefs and you had no job.'

A more "outwardly confident personality" is said to characterise Dame Sue, a Court of Appeal judge since April 2020.

Also watch |&nbsp;Boris Johnson: Former UK prime minister quits as MP over Partygate report

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A legal expert told The Daily Telegraph that she would be more suited to handle the role's public-facing duties and liaison with the Government and the Lord Chancellor.

The mother-of-three, who received her education at Trinity College Cambridge and Wycombe Abbey School in Buckinghamshire, has said that feminism means "having that true freedom of choice."

'So perhaps you could be prime minister, but if actually you really want to be a painter or teach riding and your circumstances permit it, that is what you should do.'

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-uk-pm-boris-johnson-resigns-as-member-of-parliament-602731">Former UK PM Boris Johnson quits from British Parliament</a>

When it comes to dealing with court backlogs, which this month hit their greatest level since October, the next lord chief judge will have a full in-tray.

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For the first time since the position's inception more than 750 years ago, the next lord chief justice of Britain will be a woman. The final two candidates to lead the judiciary in England and Wales are Dame Sue Carr, 58, an appeal court judge, and Dame Victoria Sharp, 67, a senior high court judge.

For the first time since the position's inception more than 750 years ago, the next lord chief justice of Britain will be a woman. The final two candidates to lead the judiciary in England and Wales are Dame Sue Carr, 58, an appeal court judge, and Dame Victoria Sharp, 67, a senior high court judge. Since Lord Chief Justice is currently a title only used by men, British constitutional law may need to be changed to accommodate the title "Lady Chief Justice," reported the Daily Mail. Since the position was first created in 1268, more than 100 men have held it. First woman to fill the position However, the first woman to fill the position is anticipated to be announced within the next two weeks by Alex Chalk, the Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary. Before Chalk and the Prime Minister's final decision is approved by the King, a carefully curated panel narrowed the field of candidates down to the top two. The leading candidate to succeed departing Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett is Dame Victoria Sharp, whose twin brother is former Goldman Sachs financier Richard Sharp, who resigned as BBC chairman last month. She is known for putting in long hours; she and her doctor husband sometimes work 14-hour days while raising their four children. In court, she once even experienced labour. When she was awarded a law doctorate at Bristol University, academic Professor David Clarke said of her: 'She was convinced that if she had not dedicated herself to her job as she did by rejecting any leave on the birth of any of her children, she would have been significantly disadvantaged; as she puts it, if you were not there in chambers, you did not receive briefs and you had no job.' A more "outwardly confident personality" is said to characterise Dame Sue, a Court of Appeal judge since April 2020. Also watch | Boris Johnson: Former UK prime minister quits as MP over Partygate report A legal expert told The Daily Telegraph that she would be more suited to handle the role's public-facing duties and liaison with the Government and the Lord Chancellor. The mother-of-three, who received her education at Trinity College Cambridge and Wycombe Abbey School in Buckinghamshire, has said that feminism means "having that true freedom of choice." 'So perhaps you could be prime minister, but if actually you really want to be a painter or teach riding and your circumstances permit it, that is what you should do.' Also read | Former UK PM Boris Johnson quits from British Parliament When it comes to dealing with court backlogs, which this month hit their greatest level since October, the next lord chief judge will have a full in-tray. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK to get first ever female Lord Chief Justice after 755 years

The European Union's Court of Justice on Monday ruled that the controversial judicial reform, which was introduced by Poland in 2019 and is related to the disciplinary procedures for judges, stands in violation of the EU law.&nbsp;

"Rule of law: the Polish justice reform of December 2019 infringes EU law" because it undermines the impartiality and independence of judges, said the Luxembourg-based court in its verdict.&nbsp;

"The value of the rule of law is an integral part of the very identity of the European Union," the court stated.

The ruling was immediately appreciated by Brussels which said that the judgement "settles the matter for good".&nbsp;

"Today is an important day for the restoration of an independent justice in Poland," said EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders. "After today's decision, the law on the judiciary will need to be adapted accordingly... I urge the Polish authorities to comply fully with the judgement," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-and-us-to-release-draft-code-of-conduct-on-ai-within-weeks-amid-threats-from-china-598894">EU and US to release draft code of conduct on AI ‘within weeks’ amid threats from China</a>

<h2>Poland calls EU court "corrupt"</h2>

The Court of Justice of the European Union was denounced by Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro on Monday as "corrupt". Poland rejected the ruling that considered the Polish judicial reform as a violation of the EU law.

The Luxembourg-based court's verdict "was not written by judges but politicians because it constitutes a clear violation of European treaties," Ziobro said, adding that "the European Union's top court is corrupt".

The governing conservatives of Poland have shared tense relations with Brussels since they came to power in 2015 over claims that Warsaw is not being able to completely uphold EU laws, especially with regard to the judiciary.&nbsp;

In 2021, Poland was slapped with a fine of one million euros per day by the Luxembourg court for not suspending its contested disciplinary chamber of the Supreme Court.

The fines imposed on the country total more than 550 million euros ($590 million).&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why is the EU interested in North-East India?

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The court on Monday said that the imposition of daily fines would stop now but Poland will have to clear the amount which is still due.&nbsp;

Polish EU Affairs Minster Szymon Szynkowski vel Sek stated that they have already some of the issues which the ECJ has pointed out.

&nbsp;"This challenged legal status has undergone significant changes, it has been amended," he said while speaking to the reporters.

The EU executive European Commission, which manages the budget of the bloc and enforces joint laws in all 27 member states, had brought the case. The lawsuit was supported by Belgium, Finland, Denmark, Sweden and the Netherlands.

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The European Union's Court of Justice on Monday ruled that the controversial judicial reform, which was introduced by Poland in 2019 and is related to the disciplinary procedures for judges, stands in violation of the EU law.

The European Union's Court of Justice on Monday ruled that the controversial judicial reform, which was introduced by Poland in 2019 and is related to the disciplinary procedures for judges, stands in violation of the EU law. "Rule of law: the Polish justice reform of December 2019 infringes EU law" because it undermines the impartiality and independence of judges, said the Luxembourg-based court in its verdict. "The value of the rule of law is an integral part of the very identity of the European Union," the court stated. The ruling was immediately appreciated by Brussels which said that the judgement "settles the matter for good". "Today is an important day for the restoration of an independent justice in Poland," said EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders. "After today's decision, the law on the judiciary will need to be adapted accordingly... I urge the Polish authorities to comply fully with the judgement," he added. ALSO READ | EU and US to release draft code of conduct on AI ‘within weeks’ amid threats from China Poland calls EU court "corrupt" The Court of Justice of the European Union was denounced by Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro on Monday as "corrupt". Poland rejected the ruling that considered the Polish judicial reform as a violation of the EU law. The Luxembourg-based court's verdict "was not written by judges but politicians because it constitutes a clear violation of European treaties," Ziobro said, adding that "the European Union's top court is corrupt". The governing conservatives of Poland have shared tense relations with Brussels since they came to power in 2015 over claims that Warsaw is not being able to completely uphold EU laws, especially with regard to the judiciary. In 2021, Poland was slapped with a fine of one million euros per day by the Luxembourg court for not suspending its contested disciplinary chamber of the Supreme Court. The fines imposed on the country total more than 550 million euros ($590 million). WATCH | Gravitas: Why is the EU interested in North-East India? The court on Monday said that the imposition of daily fines would stop now but Poland will have to clear the amount which is still due. Polish EU Affairs Minster Szymon Szynkowski vel Sek stated that they have already some of the issues which the ECJ has pointed out. "This challenged legal status has undergone significant changes, it has been amended," he said while speaking to the reporters. The EU executive European Commission, which manages the budget of the bloc and enforces joint laws in all 27 member states, had brought the case. The lawsuit was supported by Belgium, Finland, Denmark, Sweden and the Netherlands. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

EU Court rules that Polish judicial reform is in violation of EU law, Poland rejects verdict

An investigation has revealed that the UK government has been supporting&nbsp;the funding of a virulently homophobic religious group in Uganda, whose leaders have sponsored a law that would make homosexuality a crime in the country.

The Institute for Journalism and Social Change (IJSC) found a "staggering" number of connections between anti-LGBTQ+ organisations in Uganda and foreign assistance donors, including the UK, after analysing official data provided to the International assistance Transparency Initiative (IATI), reported The Guardian.

In accordance with IATI remarks, the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU), an interfaith organisation, has been a direct recipient of UK aid funds in its capacity as "implementing partner" of a scheme intended to realise the Foreign Office's "ambition for an open society in Uganda."

The Church of Uganda and numerous evangelical churches were among the IRCU members that signed a statement in February expressing "great concern" over "the growing spread of homosexuality" in Uganda and the impact of "the LGBTQ agenda" on children's well-being.

In an effort to broaden the nation's anti-gay laws, the anti-homosexuality bill 2023 was introduced into parliament two weeks later. Last month, the Ugandan parliament passed the bill with 387 of 389 MPs voting in favour.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tobacco-giant-british-american-tobacco-fined-for-north-korea-deals-to-pay-635-mn-wion-586401">Tobacco giant British American Tobacco fined for North Korea deals, to pay $635 mn</a>

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The IRCU received financing from 2021 until earlier this year, according to the Foreign Office's (FCDO) confirmation. According to FCDO data, the organisation received $168,244&nbsp;as part of the Uganda-Open Society programme, which started in June 2021 and is scheduled to last until March 2024.

However, a spokesperson claimed that the UK made the decision to cease financing in February as a result of remarks made by the IRCU regarding the anti-homosexuality bill.

The proposed law, which Volker Türk, the UN human rights chief, called "probably among the worst of its kind in the world," stipulates death penalty and life in prison for homosexual acts, as well as up to 14 years in prison for "attempted" homosexuality and 20 years for "recruitment, promotion, and funding" of same-sex "activities."

The maximum sentence for anyone who declares themselves to be "a lesbian, gay, transgender, a queer, or any other sexual or gender identity that is contrary to the binary categories of male and female" is 10&nbsp;years in prison.

President Yoweri Museveni, who this month called homosexuality a "threat to the human race," declined to sign the bill into law and asked the parliament to have another look at it, leaving it in limbo.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-report-highlights-pro-khalistan-extremism-in-britain-calls-for-government-action-586383">UK report highlights pro-Khalistan extremism in Britain, calls for government action</a>

The IRCU allegedly lost government funding from the Obama administration in 2014 as a result of the group's advocacy for the Anti-Homosexuality Act, the predecessor to the 2023 legislation that was eventually struck down by the constitutional court.

The UK's development minister, Andrew Mitchell, expressed the country's "deep disappointment" at the outcome after the 2023 law was overwhelmingly adopted by the Ugandan parliament.

An FCDO spokesperson who spoke to The guardian said,&nbsp;“The UK government has long been at the forefront of promoting LGBT+ rights internationally and is concerned by the increasing criminalisation of LGBT+ persons in Uganda which threatens minority rights and risks persecution.

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An investigation has revealed that the UK government has been supporting the funding of a virulently homophobic religious group in Uganda, whose leaders have sponsored a law that would make homosexuality a crime in the country.

An investigation has revealed that the UK government has been supporting the funding of a virulently homophobic religious group in Uganda, whose leaders have sponsored a law that would make homosexuality a crime in the country. The Institute for Journalism and Social Change (IJSC) found a "staggering" number of connections between anti-LGBTQ+ organisations in Uganda and foreign assistance donors, including the UK, after analysing official data provided to the International assistance Transparency Initiative (IATI), reported The Guardian. In accordance with IATI remarks, the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU), an interfaith organisation, has been a direct recipient of UK aid funds in its capacity as "implementing partner" of a scheme intended to realise the Foreign Office's "ambition for an open society in Uganda." The Church of Uganda and numerous evangelical churches were among the IRCU members that signed a statement in February expressing "great concern" over "the growing spread of homosexuality" in Uganda and the impact of "the LGBTQ agenda" on children's well-being. In an effort to broaden the nation's anti-gay laws, the anti-homosexuality bill 2023 was introduced into parliament two weeks later. Last month, the Ugandan parliament passed the bill with 387 of 389 MPs voting in favour. ALSO WATCH | Tobacco giant British American Tobacco fined for North Korea deals, to pay $635 mn The IRCU received financing from 2021 until earlier this year, according to the Foreign Office's (FCDO) confirmation. According to FCDO data, the organisation received $168,244 as part of the Uganda-Open Society programme, which started in June 2021 and is scheduled to last until March 2024. However, a spokesperson claimed that the UK made the decision to cease financing in February as a result of remarks made by the IRCU regarding the anti-homosexuality bill. The proposed law, which Volker Türk, the UN human rights chief, called "probably among the worst of its kind in the world," stipulates death penalty and life in prison for homosexual acts, as well as up to 14 years in prison for "attempted" homosexuality and 20 years for "recruitment, promotion, and funding" of same-sex "activities." The maximum sentence for anyone who declares themselves to be "a lesbian, gay, transgender, a queer, or any other sexual or gender identity that is contrary to the binary categories of male and female" is 10 years in prison. President Yoweri Museveni, who this month called homosexuality a "threat to the human race," declined to sign the bill into law and asked the parliament to have another look at it, leaving it in limbo. ALSO READ | UK report highlights pro-Khalistan extremism in Britain, calls for government action The IRCU allegedly lost government funding from the Obama administration in 2014 as a result of the group's advocacy for the Anti-Homosexuality Act, the predecessor to the 2023 legislation that was eventually struck down by the constitutional court. The UK's development minister, Andrew Mitchell, expressed the country's "deep disappointment" at the outcome after the 2023 law was overwhelmingly adopted by the Ugandan parliament. An FCDO spokesperson who spoke to The guardian said, “The UK government has long been at the forefront of promoting LGBT+ rights internationally and is concerned by the increasing criminalisation of LGBT+ persons in Uganda which threatens minority rights and risks persecution. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Report: UK government funded anti-LGBTQ+ group in Uganda

Crime incidents are on a rise. Among the varied crimes committed, Knife crime is quite prevalent around the world. Knife crime has increased by 9% in the past year & 34% in the past decade, to 45,000 offences. Amid raging gun violence in the U.S, the UK is also marred by a similar kind of violence associated with knives. The British government plans to ban Machetes & so-called zombie knives in England & Wales.

Why is the UK planning to ban zombie knives & machetes?

Japan is trying hard to ameliorate its condition. In a move to turn more tourists towards Japan, the country is set to bring its first-ever legal casino. The Japanese government approved a controversial plan to build a casino in Osaka. The local govts of Osaka & Nagasaki have long sought approval to build "integrated resort" (IR) facilities. The IR facilities combine casinos, convention centres, hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues. The Osaka plan aims to open the casino by 2029.

Japan approves country's first-ever legal casino in Osaka

US House Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy has said that US lawmakers are going ahead with legislation that will address worries over TikTok. He accused China of having access to user data of the popular video-sharing app. Calls to ban TikTok in the US are growing. US-government has already banned use of TikTok on government-owned devices.

TikTok is owned by China-based company ByteDance.

"The House will be moving forward with legislation to protect Americans from the technological tentacles of the Chinese Communist Party," McCarthy said on Twitter.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It's very concerning that the CEO of TikTok can't be honest and admit what we already know to be true—China has access to TikTok user data. 
 
The House will be moving forward with legislation to protect Americans from the technological tentacles of the Chinese Communist Party.
— Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerMcCarthy/status/1639980623539445760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday, TiKTok CEO Shou Zi appeared before US House Committee for about five hours. He was grilled by lawmakers from the Democratic as well as Republican parties.

TikTok has about 150 million users in America

In Thursday's hearing, the TikTok CEO was asked if of the app, has spied on Americans at Beijing's request. Chew answered, "No."

Republican Representative Neal Dunn then referenced the company's disclosure in December that some China-based employees at ByteDance improperly accessed TikTok user data of two journalists and were no longer employed by the company. He repeated his question about whether ByteDance was spying.

"I don't think that spying is the right way to describe it," Chew said. He went on to describe the reports as involving an "internal investigation" before being cut off.

McCarthy, a Republican, said in a tweet on Sunday, "It's very concerning that the CEO of TikTok can't be honest and admit what we already know to be true — China has access to TikTok user data."

The company says it has spent more than $1.5 billion on data security efforts under the name "Project Texas" which currently has nearly 1,500 full-time employees and is contracted with Oracle Corp to store TikTok’s U.S. user data.

Rather than appease lawmakers' concerns, Chew's appearance before Congress on Thursday "actually increased the likelihood that Congress will take some action," Representative Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin, the Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, told ABC News on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US House Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy has said that US lawmakers are going ahead with legislation that will address worries over TikTok. He accused China of having access to user data of the popular video-sharing app.

US House Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy has said that US lawmakers are going ahead with legislation that will address worries over TikTok. He accused China of having access to user data of the popular video-sharing app. Calls to ban TikTok in the US are growing. US-government has already banned use of TikTok on government-owned devices. TikTok is owned by China-based company ByteDance. "The House will be moving forward with legislation to protect Americans from the technological tentacles of the Chinese Communist Party," McCarthy said on Twitter. It's very concerning that the CEO of TikTok can't be honest and admit what we already know to be true—China has access to TikTok user data. The House will be moving forward with legislation to protect Americans from the technological tentacles of the Chinese Communist Party. — Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) March 26, 2023 × On Thursday, TiKTok CEO Shou Zi appeared before US House Committee for about five hours. He was grilled by lawmakers from the Democratic as well as Republican parties. TikTok has about 150 million users in America In Thursday's hearing, the TikTok CEO was asked if of the app, has spied on Americans at Beijing's request. Chew answered, "No." Republican Representative Neal Dunn then referenced the company's disclosure in December that some China-based employees at ByteDance improperly accessed TikTok user data of two journalists and were no longer employed by the company. He repeated his question about whether ByteDance was spying. "I don't think that spying is the right way to describe it," Chew said. He went on to describe the reports as involving an "internal investigation" before being cut off. McCarthy, a Republican, said in a tweet on Sunday, "It's very concerning that the CEO of TikTok can't be honest and admit what we already know to be true — China has access to TikTok user data." The company says it has spent more than $1.5 billion on data security efforts under the name "Project Texas" which currently has nearly 1,500 full-time employees and is contracted with Oracle Corp to store TikTok’s U.S. user data. Rather than appease lawmakers' concerns, Chew's appearance before Congress on Thursday "actually increased the likelihood that Congress will take some action," Representative Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin, the Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, told ABC News on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: Lawmakers to press on with legislation to deal with TikTok issue

India will allow foreign law firms to set up offices to offer corporate law and M&A services to clients and hire local lawyers to beef up operations, in a major move seen as reshaping the landscape of a sector long dominated by local firms.

India allows foreign law firms to set up offices, move seen as 'game changer'

The Japanese Cabinet on Tuesday (March 14) approved a bill which would&nbsp; raise the legal age of consent from 13 to 16 and recognise sexual violation even in the absence of physical violence or coercion. The country is moving to reform its Penal Code after years of criticism that several sex offenders went scot-free. Notably, the age of consent in the Asian country is the lowest among the Group of seven nations (G7) and has remained unchanged since its enactment over a century ago.

The package of reforms proposed last month by a Japanese justice ministry panel also sought to clarify rape prosecution requirements. It would now define sexual offence charges as per the circumstances which make it difficult for a person to “form, express or fulfill the intention to resist” a sexual act and listed eight acts in this context.&nbsp;

The examples ranged from threats and abusing one’s economic or social power to taking advantage of a person’s impairment due to the influence of alcohol or drugs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/explained-japan-poised-to-raise-age-of-consent-to-16-after-over-a-century-why-now-564542">Explained | Japan poised to raise age of consent to 16 after over a century. Why now?</a>

According to local media reports, the reforms also rename a sexual offence charge in order to clarify the illegality of non-consensual intercourse. It will also make so-called upskirting and producing images of genitalia without consent punishable under the Penal Code.&nbsp;

The amendments will also make illegal the production of images of genitalia, buttocks and breasts without consent. Providing or circulating such images and videos will become punishable. The government aims to pass the bill during the current parliamentary session while the revision will come into effect 20 days after the promulgation, as per local media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-to-raise-age-of-consent-from-13-to-16-age-remains-same-since-enacted-in-1907-564286">Japan to raise age of consent from 13 to 16; age remains same since enacted in 1907</a>

As of now, Japan has the lowest age of consent among developed countries, as 13-year-old children are deemed old enough to consent. This means sexual activity with them is not considered statutory rape.

The proposed overhaul comes after mounting criticism that current laws are inadequate to protect children from rape and other sexual offences.

As per the current Japanese laws, forced sexual intercourse must be non-consensual and the prosecution must be able to prove that the rape perpetrator used “violence and intimidation” and that it was “impossible to resist”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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The Japanese Cabinet on Tuesday (March 14) approved a bill which would raise the legal age of consent from 13 to 16 and recognise sexual violation even in the absence of physical violence or coercion.

The Japanese Cabinet on Tuesday (March 14) approved a bill which would raise the legal age of consent from 13 to 16 and recognise sexual violation even in the absence of physical violence or coercion. The country is moving to reform its Penal Code after years of criticism that several sex offenders went scot-free. Notably, the age of consent in the Asian country is the lowest among the Group of seven nations (G7) and has remained unchanged since its enactment over a century ago. The package of reforms proposed last month by a Japanese justice ministry panel also sought to clarify rape prosecution requirements. It would now define sexual offence charges as per the circumstances which make it difficult for a person to “form, express or fulfill the intention to resist” a sexual act and listed eight acts in this context. The examples ranged from threats and abusing one’s economic or social power to taking advantage of a person’s impairment due to the influence of alcohol or drugs. ALSO READ | Explained | Japan poised to raise age of consent to 16 after over a century. Why now? According to local media reports, the reforms also rename a sexual offence charge in order to clarify the illegality of non-consensual intercourse. It will also make so-called upskirting and producing images of genitalia without consent punishable under the Penal Code. The amendments will also make illegal the production of images of genitalia, buttocks and breasts without consent. Providing or circulating such images and videos will become punishable. The government aims to pass the bill during the current parliamentary session while the revision will come into effect 20 days after the promulgation, as per local media reports. ALSO WATCH | Japan to raise age of consent from 13 to 16; age remains same since enacted in 1907 As of now, Japan has the lowest age of consent among developed countries, as 13-year-old children are deemed old enough to consent. This means sexual activity with them is not considered statutory rape. The proposed overhaul comes after mounting criticism that current laws are inadequate to protect children from rape and other sexual offences. As per the current Japanese laws, forced sexual intercourse must be non-consensual and the prosecution must be able to prove that the rape perpetrator used “violence and intimidation” and that it was “impossible to resist”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan OKs bill to raise age of consent from 13 to 16, reform sexual offence charges

One of the youngest persons ever to get a juris doctorate&nbsp;is reportedly a 15-year-old Mississippi boy, who is gearing up to join law school later this year, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;

James "Jimmy" Chilimigras took the law school admission test last year when he was just 14 years old and achieved a 174, the best score in his native Mississippi, as well as the states of Alabama and Louisiana, reported Mississippi-based TV station WLOX.

Jimmy, who has an accounting master's and a bachelor's degree from the online, nonprofit Western Governors University, told WLOX that he is giving himself time until May to make up his mind about going to law school. But, he made it clear: “I’m going to be law school in August – that’s going to be in person, so that’s interesting, [and] I’m really looking forward to it, actually.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-love-him-very-much-when-putins-rumoured-girlfriend-went-candid-about-her-ideal-man-569644">'I love him very much': When Putin's rumoured girlfriend went candid about her 'ideal man'</a>

Kelly Yang, a Chinese student from China, graduated from Harvard University in 2005 at the age of 20, making her the eighth-youngest law school graduate in the world. According to Oldest.org, Stephen Baccus of Florida, who completed his studies at the University of Miami at the age of 16 in 1986, is the youngest known law school graduate in the world.

Several people on the oldest.org list never went on to become attorneys. Baccus ultimately chose to become a neuroscience professor, while Yang went on to become a South China Morning Post columnist.

John and Erin Chilimigras, Jimmy's parents, told WLOX that they were aware of Jimmy's intelligence from an early age. Although he was just two years old, he began speaking in complete sentences.

“We always knew he was bright, but I don’t think we expected he would accomplish so much so fast,” Erin Chilimigras said to WLOX.

Jimmy described his journey by stating that he simply enjoys learning and pushing himself, and that his parents were committed to fostering that passion.

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One of the youngest persons ever to get a juris doctorate is reportedly a 15-year-old Mississippi boy, who is gearing up to join law school later this year, as reported by the Guardian.

One of the youngest persons ever to get a juris doctorate is reportedly a 15-year-old Mississippi boy, who is gearing up to join law school later this year, as reported by the Guardian. James "Jimmy" Chilimigras took the law school admission test last year when he was just 14 years old and achieved a 174, the best score in his native Mississippi, as well as the states of Alabama and Louisiana, reported Mississippi-based TV station WLOX. Jimmy, who has an accounting master's and a bachelor's degree from the online, nonprofit Western Governors University, told WLOX that he is giving himself time until May to make up his mind about going to law school. But, he made it clear: “I’m going to be law school in August – that’s going to be in person, so that’s interesting, [and] I’m really looking forward to it, actually.” ALSO READ | 'I love him very much': When Putin's rumoured girlfriend went candid about her 'ideal man' Kelly Yang, a Chinese student from China, graduated from Harvard University in 2005 at the age of 20, making her the eighth-youngest law school graduate in the world. According to Oldest.org, Stephen Baccus of Florida, who completed his studies at the University of Miami at the age of 16 in 1986, is the youngest known law school graduate in the world. Several people on the oldest.org list never went on to become attorneys. Baccus ultimately chose to become a neuroscience professor, while Yang went on to become a South China Morning Post columnist. John and Erin Chilimigras, Jimmy's parents, told WLOX that they were aware of Jimmy's intelligence from an early age. Although he was just two years old, he began speaking in complete sentences. “We always knew he was bright, but I don’t think we expected he would accomplish so much so fast,” Erin Chilimigras said to WLOX. Jimmy described his journey by stating that he simply enjoys learning and pushing himself, and that his parents were committed to fostering that passion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: 15-year-old Mississippi prodigy gears up for law school

Mexico Senate on Wednesday passed a bill overhauling the body that organises elections and monitors political activity in the country, a move that critics say will favour President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador in the 2024 presidential and congressional elections.

The reform was approved by the Senate with 72 votes in favour and 50 against. However, it still needs to be signed by Lopez to become law.&nbsp;The bill entails cutting short the budget of the election body, National Electoral Institute (INE), slashing public funding for political parties, in addition to changing several electoral procedures.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-time-in-52-years-worlds-longest-skating-rink-to-close-due-to-global-warming-565094">First time in 52 years! World’s longest skating rink to close due to global warming</a>

The passing of this bill is seen as a digressional step from the 2000 election reform that ended the 71 years of one-party rule. Therefore, the critics are voicing their opposition to the passing of the bill. The president, however, has been throwing his weight behind the reforms. In mid-November, he said, “The reform tries to strengthen democracy, protect it, because there are still risks of electoral fraud.”

His calls for these reforms intensified after he lost the 2006 presidential election, which he later claimed was&nbsp;fraudulent. He again gained power in 2018 but his allegations continue.&nbsp; Opposition lawmakers and civil society groups are now railing against the president and have said they will approach Supreme Court to challenge the reforms as they are unconstitutional.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-three-news-outlets-fined-for-their-earthquake-coverage-565075">Turkey: Three news outlets fined for critical coverage of govt’s earthquake response</a>

Protests are also likely in multiple cities on Sunday. This overhaul is dubbed "Plan B" and reportedly seeks to convert the INE into a smaller elected official body. INE head Lorenzo Cordova has condemned the changes and termed them a&nbsp;“democratic setback”.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-talks-of-boosting-nuclear-forces-565118">Russia Ukraine War: Vladimir Putin talks of boosting nuclear forces</a>

He added that this will pose a risk to “certain, trustworthy and transparent” elections. Proposed “brutal cuts” in personnel would hinder the installation of polling stations and vote counting, Cordova said, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Mexico Senate on Wednesday passed a bill overhauling the body that organises elections and monitors political activity in the country, a move that critics say will favour President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador in the 2024 presidential and congressional elections.

Mexico Senate on Wednesday passed a bill overhauling the body that organises elections and monitors political activity in the country, a move that critics say will favour President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador in the 2024 presidential and congressional elections. The reform was approved by the Senate with 72 votes in favour and 50 against. However, it still needs to be signed by Lopez to become law. The bill entails cutting short the budget of the election body, National Electoral Institute (INE), slashing public funding for political parties, in addition to changing several electoral procedures. Also Read | First time in 52 years! World’s longest skating rink to close due to global warming The passing of this bill is seen as a digressional step from the 2000 election reform that ended the 71 years of one-party rule. Therefore, the critics are voicing their opposition to the passing of the bill. The president, however, has been throwing his weight behind the reforms. In mid-November, he said, “The reform tries to strengthen democracy, protect it, because there are still risks of electoral fraud.” His calls for these reforms intensified after he lost the 2006 presidential election, which he later claimed was fraudulent. He again gained power in 2018 but his allegations continue. Opposition lawmakers and civil society groups are now railing against the president and have said they will approach Supreme Court to challenge the reforms as they are unconstitutional. Also Read | Turkey: Three news outlets fined for critical coverage of govt’s earthquake response Protests are also likely in multiple cities on Sunday. This overhaul is dubbed "Plan B" and reportedly seeks to convert the INE into a smaller elected official body. INE head Lorenzo Cordova has condemned the changes and termed them a “democratic setback”. Watch | Russia Ukraine War: Vladimir Putin talks of boosting nuclear forces He added that this will pose a risk to “certain, trustworthy and transparent” elections. Proposed “brutal cuts” in personnel would hinder the installation of polling stations and vote counting, Cordova said, reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mexico Senate passes controversial bill overhauling election body, critics term it a democratic setback

Japan is poised to raise the age of consent from 13 to 16 in an overhaul of legislation amid criticism that existing laws fail to protect children from rape and other sex crimes.

Japan aims to revise sex crime laws

Apsara Iyer, a second year student at Harvard Law School, has been elected president of the prestigious Harvard Law Review, becoming the first Indian-American to hold the role at the esteemed journal in its 136-year history.&nbsp;Iyer said in The Crimson report that as Law Review president, she aims to “include more editors in the process of reviewing and selecting articles and upholding the publication’s reputation for “high-quality” work.”

"I think that right now I’m just focused on making sure we keep the lights on and everything going,” she added.&nbsp;

Late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and former US president Barack Obama are two of Iyer's notable predecessors who held the position.&nbsp;

Iyer’s immediate predecessor Priscila Coronado said the publication is “extremely lucky” to have Iyer at the forefront.&nbsp;

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Apsara Iyer ’24 was elected the 137th president of the Harvard Law Review. Prior to attending HLS, she worked at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Antiquities Trafficking Unit where she investigated art crimes <a href="https://t.co/4xFzUSvlRr">https://t.co/4xFzUSvlRr</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HarvLRev?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarvLRev</a>
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"Apsara has changed the lives of many editors for the better, and I know she will continue to do so," Coronado, who spoke to PTI, said.&nbsp;"From the start, she has impressed her fellow editors with her remarkable intelligence, thoughtfulness, warmth, and fierce advocacy."

The Crimson said that Iyer's goal to understand the "value of cultural heritage" prompted her to join the Manhattan District Attorney's Antiquities Trafficking Unit, which investigates cases involving antiquities and art pieces that have been stolen.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-origin-natasha-perianayagam-named-worlds-brightest-student-by-johns-hopkins-for-2nd-time-in-a-row-559554">&nbsp;Indian-origin Natasha Perianayagam named ‘world’s brightest’ student by Johns Hopkins for 2nd time in a row</a>

Iyer entered the Harvard Law Review, according to the report, after competing in a procedure known as "write-on," in which students at the law school "rigorously fact-check a document and provide commentary on a recent State or Supreme Court Case."

Iyer was formerly involved with&nbsp;the Harvard Human Rights Journal and the National Security Journal at the Law School.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Apsara Iyer, a second year student at Harvard Law School, has been elected president of the prestigious Harvard Law Review, becoming the first Indian-American to hold the role at the esteemed journal in its 136-year history.

Apsara Iyer, a second year student at Harvard Law School, has been elected president of the prestigious Harvard Law Review, becoming the first Indian-American to hold the role at the esteemed journal in its 136-year history. Iyer said in The Crimson report that as Law Review president, she aims to “include more editors in the process of reviewing and selecting articles and upholding the publication’s reputation for “high-quality” work.” "I think that right now I’m just focused on making sure we keep the lights on and everything going,” she added. Late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and former US president Barack Obama are two of Iyer's notable predecessors who held the position. Iyer’s immediate predecessor Priscila Coronado said the publication is “extremely lucky” to have Iyer at the forefront. Apsara Iyer ’24 was elected the 137th president of the Harvard Law Review. Prior to attending HLS, she worked at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Antiquities Trafficking Unit where she investigated art crimes https://t.co/4xFzUSvlRr @HarvLRev — Harvard Law School (@Harvard_Law) February 5, 2023 × "Apsara has changed the lives of many editors for the better, and I know she will continue to do so," Coronado, who spoke to PTI, said. "From the start, she has impressed her fellow editors with her remarkable intelligence, thoughtfulness, warmth, and fierce advocacy." The Crimson said that Iyer's goal to understand the "value of cultural heritage" prompted her to join the Manhattan District Attorney's Antiquities Trafficking Unit, which investigates cases involving antiquities and art pieces that have been stolen. Also read | Indian-origin Natasha Perianayagam named ‘world’s brightest’ student by Johns Hopkins for 2nd time in a row Iyer entered the Harvard Law Review, according to the report, after competing in a procedure known as "write-on," in which students at the law school "rigorously fact-check a document and provide commentary on a recent State or Supreme Court Case." Iyer was formerly involved with the Harvard Human Rights Journal and the National Security Journal at the Law School. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

In a first, Indian-American Apsara Iyer to lead Harvard Law Review

The British government said on Monday that it will oppose a proposed Scottish bill that would make it easier for people to legally alter their gender, upsetting transgender rights activists and the nationalist Scottish government in Edinburgh. Alister Jack, the secretary of state for Scotland, declared he would stop the measure from receiving royal assent, the last step before it becomes law, because of fear that it contradicts "Great Britain-wide equalities legislation." This law provides women and girls access to single-sex areas like restrooms and shelters, among other things.

The Scottish administration will likely appeal the ruling to the United Kingdom Supreme Court.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon referred to the Conservative Party's choice as "a full-frontal attack" on the Scottish people.

“The Scottish Government will defend the legislation and stand up for Scotland’s Parliament,” she said on Twitter. “If this Westminster veto succeeds, it will be the first of many.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-teachers-announce-strikes-most-english-and-welsh-schools-to-face-closure-553276">UK teachers announce strikes, most English and Welsh schools to face closure</a>

The Scottish law does away with the necessity of a gender dysphoria diagnosis by allowing people aged 16 or older in Scotland to change the gender designation on the identity documents of their own choice.

Additionally, it reduces the amount of time that transgender persons must live in a different declared gender before the transition is recognised legally from two years to three months for adults and six months for those between the ages of 16 and 17.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK to supply battle tanks to Ukraine amid Russian strikes

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The argument put up by opponents is that it runs the danger of giving predatory men access to places designated for women, including shelters for victims of domestic violence. Others contend that 18 should continue to be the minimum age for transitioning.

Since the establishment of the Scottish government and parliament a quarter century ago, this is the first case in which the UK government has blocked the ratification of Scottish legislation. The action will serve as fodder for nationalists who want Scotland to secede from the United Kingdom and establish an independent nation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The British government said on Monday that it will oppose a proposed Scottish bill that would make it easier for people to legally alter their gender, upsetting transgender rights activists and the nationalist Scottish government in Edinburgh.

The British government said on Monday that it will oppose a proposed Scottish bill that would make it easier for people to legally alter their gender, upsetting transgender rights activists and the nationalist Scottish government in Edinburgh. Alister Jack, the secretary of state for Scotland, declared he would stop the measure from receiving royal assent, the last step before it becomes law, because of fear that it contradicts "Great Britain-wide equalities legislation." This law provides women and girls access to single-sex areas like restrooms and shelters, among other things. The Scottish administration will likely appeal the ruling to the United Kingdom Supreme Court. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon referred to the Conservative Party's choice as "a full-frontal attack" on the Scottish people. “The Scottish Government will defend the legislation and stand up for Scotland’s Parliament,” she said on Twitter. “If this Westminster veto succeeds, it will be the first of many.” Also read | UK teachers announce strikes, most English and Welsh schools to face closure The Scottish law does away with the necessity of a gender dysphoria diagnosis by allowing people aged 16 or older in Scotland to change the gender designation on the identity documents of their own choice. Additionally, it reduces the amount of time that transgender persons must live in a different declared gender before the transition is recognised legally from two years to three months for adults and six months for those between the ages of 16 and 17. Also watch | UK to supply battle tanks to Ukraine amid Russian strikes The argument put up by opponents is that it runs the danger of giving predatory men access to places designated for women, including shelters for victims of domestic violence. Others contend that 18 should continue to be the minimum age for transitioning. Since the establishment of the Scottish government and parliament a quarter century ago, this is the first case in which the UK government has blocked the ratification of Scottish legislation. The action will serve as fodder for nationalists who want Scotland to secede from the United Kingdom and establish an independent nation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK: Rishi Sunak's govt overrules Scotland’s gender self-recognition bill

Kazakhstan on Friday (January 13) revoked law which gave former president Nursultan Nazarbaev almost limitless power even after his resignation in 2019. The move further diminishes veteran leader Nursultan Nazarbayev and his family's influence. Former president Nazarbayev ruled the country with an iron fist from 1991 to 2019&nbsp;and retained political influence even after stepping down from the post. He and his family were granted immunity and he was also granted the honorary title of "Elbasy" meaning "head of the nation".

A joint session of both chambers of Kazakhstan's parliament on Friday voted in favour of revoking this law, the Kazinform news agency reported.

"During a period of deep political transformations, when Kazakhstan is moving towards democracy and pluralism, it is important not to allow any mechanisms leading the appropriation of power by separate groups," lawmaker Erlan Sairov said in parliament as quoted by Kazinform.

The move to revoke the law has come just months after Kazakhstan changed name&nbsp;of its capital from Nur-Sultan to Astana. The capital had the former name&nbsp;in honour of Nazarbayev.

After his decision to step down, Nazarbayev enjoyed a huge influence over politics and his clan retained control over swathes of country's economy.

Last year, the country descended into chaos during January protests -- which grew out of peaceful demonstrations over a spike in fuel prices -- that left more than 230 dead. The protests were in part sparked by resentment over the rampant and lingering corruption from Nazarbayev's rule.

Nazarbayev's hand-picked successor Kassym-Jomart Tokayev violently suppressed the unrest and distanced himself from his former mentor, calling for a shift from "super-presidential" rule.

In recent months, several relatives of Kazakhstan's 82-year-old founding leader have been removed from positions of power.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Kazakhstan on Friday (January 13) revoked law which gave former president Nursultan Nazarbaev almost limitless power even after his resignation in 2019. The move further diminishes veteran leader Nursultan Nazarbayev and his family's influence.

Kazakhstan on Friday (January 13) revoked law which gave former president Nursultan Nazarbaev almost limitless power even after his resignation in 2019. The move further diminishes veteran leader Nursultan Nazarbayev and his family's influence. Former president Nazarbayev ruled the country with an iron fist from 1991 to 2019 and retained political influence even after stepping down from the post. He and his family were granted immunity and he was also granted the honorary title of "Elbasy" meaning "head of the nation". A joint session of both chambers of Kazakhstan's parliament on Friday voted in favour of revoking this law, the Kazinform news agency reported. "During a period of deep political transformations, when Kazakhstan is moving towards democracy and pluralism, it is important not to allow any mechanisms leading the appropriation of power by separate groups," lawmaker Erlan Sairov said in parliament as quoted by Kazinform. The move to revoke the law has come just months after Kazakhstan changed name of its capital from Nur-Sultan to Astana. The capital had the former name in honour of Nazarbayev. After his decision to step down, Nazarbayev enjoyed a huge influence over politics and his clan retained control over swathes of country's economy. Last year, the country descended into chaos during January protests -- which grew out of peaceful demonstrations over a spike in fuel prices -- that left more than 230 dead. The protests were in part sparked by resentment over the rampant and lingering corruption from Nazarbayev's rule. Nazarbayev's hand-picked successor Kassym-Jomart Tokayev violently suppressed the unrest and distanced himself from his former mentor, calling for a shift from "super-presidential" rule. In recent months, several relatives of Kazakhstan's 82-year-old founding leader have been removed from positions of power. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kazakhstan revokes law to diminish former president Nazarbayev’s towering influence

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier&nbsp; and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government.&nbsp;

However, the passing of legislation leads to a clash with the UK government, which has raised concerns over children's and women’s safety. Scottish government’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that they will fight all the attempts made to stop the law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-blocks-scotland-from-holding-second-independence-referendum-536746">UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum</a>

The legislation, which received 86 votes in favour and 39 in opposition in the devolved parliament of Scotland in Edinburgh, removed the need for a gender dysphoria medical diagnosis if a person wants to change his/her gender.

"The motion is therefore agreed and the Gender Recognition Reform Scotland Bill is passed," said presiding officer Alison Johnstone, responding to the public gallery's loud applause. To prevent the legislation from becoming law, the UK government can block the Royal Assent, when the King gives his formal agreement to the Bill and it takes the shape of an Act of the Scottish Parliament.

UK Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch said that the bill’s implications on the lives of girls and women have not been considered by the Scottish government. She said in a statement: "The UK government is now looking at provisions that can prompt reconsideration and allow MSPs to address these issues."

WATCH| Scottish Independence Referendum: 'People of Scotland have the right to choose'

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As per the legislation, people between the age of 16 and 17 will now be permitted to change their gender. The law has further reduced the required time an applicant needs to live in their new gender before its official recognition from two years to three months and in the case of 16 and 17-year-old citizens, the time required is six months.

The applicant will also be provided an additional time of three months as a reflection period during which the applicant who has initiated the process or considering changing the gender can change their decision. However, the Scottish government argues that the Equality Act will not be impacted by the legislation, which permits transgenders to be excluded from single-sex spaces like changing rooms.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has battled the biggest internal opposition over the legislation in her tenure of eight years, said that the older system for altering gender was "intrusive, traumatic and dehumanising".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government. However, the passing of legislation leads to a clash with the UK government, which has raised concerns over children's and women’s safety. Scottish government’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that they will fight all the attempts made to stop the law. ALSO READ| UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum The legislation, which received 86 votes in favour and 39 in opposition in the devolved parliament of Scotland in Edinburgh, removed the need for a gender dysphoria medical diagnosis if a person wants to change his/her gender. "The motion is therefore agreed and the Gender Recognition Reform Scotland Bill is passed," said presiding officer Alison Johnstone, responding to the public gallery's loud applause. To prevent the legislation from becoming law, the UK government can block the Royal Assent, when the King gives his formal agreement to the Bill and it takes the shape of an Act of the Scottish Parliament. UK Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch said that the bill’s implications on the lives of girls and women have not been considered by the Scottish government. She said in a statement: "The UK government is now looking at provisions that can prompt reconsideration and allow MSPs to address these issues." WATCH| Scottish Independence Referendum: 'People of Scotland have the right to choose' As per the legislation, people between the age of 16 and 17 will now be permitted to change their gender. The law has further reduced the required time an applicant needs to live in their new gender before its official recognition from two years to three months and in the case of 16 and 17-year-old citizens, the time required is six months. The applicant will also be provided an additional time of three months as a reflection period during which the applicant who has initiated the process or considering changing the gender can change their decision. However, the Scottish government argues that the Equality Act will not be impacted by the legislation, which permits transgenders to be excluded from single-sex spaces like changing rooms. Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has battled the biggest internal opposition over the legislation in her tenure of eight years, said that the older system for altering gender was "intrusive, traumatic and dehumanising". (With inputs from agencies)

Rishi Sunak-led UK government likely to block Scotland’s gender reform legislation

Two Nigerian TikTokers, Mubarak Isa Muhammad and Muhammad Bala, were arrested last week and have been sentenced to a fine and whipping after they used the social media app to allegedly mock a government official, reported the BBC. The incident took place in Nigeria’s northern Kano State, whose capital is the second most populous city after Lagos. &nbsp;

According to the report, the duo was convicted for defaming the governor of Kano state, Abdullahi Ganduje after they posted a video on Facebook and TikTok in which they mocked the governor for alleged land grabbing, corruption and sleeping while he was at work.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-advertising-watchdog-sues-meta-seeks-usd-50-million-for-violation-of-laws-523140">Nigeria: Advertising watchdog sues Meta, seeks USD 50 million for violation of laws</a>&nbsp;

Their lawyer did not challenge the judgement and they pleaded guilty and requesting for leniency, however, they were both sentenced to pay a 10,000 naira ($23) fine, and clean the court’s premises for a month as well as 20 lashes each. Furthermore, the duo was also ordered to apologize on social media to Ganduje.&nbsp;

The prosecution, attorney Wada Ahmed Wada claimed that the men had defamed the governor and that their actions could disturb public peace. Meanwhile, Mubarak Isa Muhammad and Muhammad Bala’s lawyer told BBC that he did not challenge the verdict since it was a “non-custodial” sentence, which meant that those convicted would not go to be sentenced to imprisonment.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-becomes-first-country-ever-to-ban-foreign-models-in-advertisements-510540">Nigeria becomes first country ever to ban foreign models in TV commercials</a>

Notably, Kano State is one of the dozen states in the country that practices Sharia law parallel with the country’s secular laws and only people from the Muslim community can be tried in Sharia courts, said the report.&nbsp;

Amid the growing popularity of the social media platform, particularly among young people, in the country, many have used it to comment on social and political issues including mocking public figures and government officials using snippets of images and videos to often create comedies.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Two Nigerian TikTokers, Mubarak Isa Muhammad and Muhammad Bala, were arrested last week and have been sentenced to a fine and whipping after they used the social media app to allegedly mock a government official, reported the BBC.

Two Nigerian TikTokers, Mubarak Isa Muhammad and Muhammad Bala, were arrested last week and have been sentenced to a fine and whipping after they used the social media app to allegedly mock a government official, reported the BBC. The incident took place in Nigeria’s northern Kano State, whose capital is the second most populous city after Lagos. According to the report, the duo was convicted for defaming the governor of Kano state, Abdullahi Ganduje after they posted a video on Facebook and TikTok in which they mocked the governor for alleged land grabbing, corruption and sleeping while he was at work. ALSO READ: Nigeria: Advertising watchdog sues Meta, seeks USD 50 million for violation of laws Their lawyer did not challenge the judgement and they pleaded guilty and requesting for leniency, however, they were both sentenced to pay a 10,000 naira ($23) fine, and clean the court’s premises for a month as well as 20 lashes each. Furthermore, the duo was also ordered to apologize on social media to Ganduje. The prosecution, attorney Wada Ahmed Wada claimed that the men had defamed the governor and that their actions could disturb public peace. Meanwhile, Mubarak Isa Muhammad and Muhammad Bala’s lawyer told BBC that he did not challenge the verdict since it was a “non-custodial” sentence, which meant that those convicted would not go to be sentenced to imprisonment. ALSO READ: Nigeria becomes first country ever to ban foreign models in TV commercials Notably, Kano State is one of the dozen states in the country that practices Sharia law parallel with the country’s secular laws and only people from the Muslim community can be tried in Sharia courts, said the report. Amid the growing popularity of the social media platform, particularly among young people, in the country, many have used it to comment on social and political issues including mocking public figures and government officials using snippets of images and videos to often create comedies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official

China's highest legislature has now approved a bill that will give women stronger protection against sexual harassment and gender discrimination. The measure is passed at a time when campaigners were alarmed by the government's increased emphasis on the importance of traditional women's roles.

Law on women's protection in China changes for first time in nearly 30 years

After receiving significant public input and undergoing a third rewrite, China's highest legislature approved a bill on Sunday that will give women stronger protection against sexual harassment and gender discrimination.

The measure was passed at a time when campaigners were alarmed by the government's increased emphasis on the importance of traditional women's roles, as well as what some saw as setbacks for women's rights and more restricted views on abortion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-protecting-hong-kong-protesters-will-spell-disaster-for-britain-529398">China warns protecting Hong Kong protesters will spell 'disaster' for Britain</a>

The new law may or may not take some of those more conservative viewpoints into account. Beyond its adoption, there were no immediate details about the law.

The law pertaining to women's safety hasn't been altered in nearly 30 years. On Thursday, a measure with the working title "Women's Rights and Interests Protection Law" was delivered to the NPC's Standing Committee. On its website, the NPC declared the legislation to have passed.

According to the NPC's website, tens of thousands of people submitted ideas for changes they wished to see made to the legislation.

The act "strengthens the protection of the rights and interests of disadvantaged groups such as poor women, old women, and disabled women," according to official news agency Xinhua on Thursday.

Employers will be held accountable, claims Xinhua, for any violations of women's labour and social security rights and interests.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghais-disneyland-reduces-operations-to-curb-covid-after-china-reports-1000-cases-for-the-fifth-day-529355">Shanghai's Disneyland reduces operations to curb Covid after China reports over 1,000 cases for the fifth day</a>

According to Xinhua, local officials would also be given guidelines for rescuing trafficking and kidnapped women.

Images of a woman in shackles that were uploaded online at the beginning of this year outraged people and sparked a discussion on how to deal with human trafficking, especially in rural areas where the problem has long been recognised.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After receiving significant public input and undergoing a third rewrite, China's highest legislature approved a bill on Sunday that will give women stronger protection against sexual harassment and gender discrimination.

After receiving significant public input and undergoing a third rewrite, China's highest legislature approved a bill on Sunday that will give women stronger protection against sexual harassment and gender discrimination. The measure was passed at a time when campaigners were alarmed by the government's increased emphasis on the importance of traditional women's roles, as well as what some saw as setbacks for women's rights and more restricted views on abortion. Also read | China warns protecting Hong Kong protesters will spell 'disaster' for Britain The new law may or may not take some of those more conservative viewpoints into account. Beyond its adoption, there were no immediate details about the law. The law pertaining to women's safety hasn't been altered in nearly 30 years. On Thursday, a measure with the working title "Women's Rights and Interests Protection Law" was delivered to the NPC's Standing Committee. On its website, the NPC declared the legislation to have passed. According to the NPC's website, tens of thousands of people submitted ideas for changes they wished to see made to the legislation. The act "strengthens the protection of the rights and interests of disadvantaged groups such as poor women, old women, and disabled women," according to official news agency Xinhua on Thursday. Employers will be held accountable, claims Xinhua, for any violations of women's labour and social security rights and interests. Also read | Shanghai's Disneyland reduces operations to curb Covid after China reports over 1,000 cases for the fifth day According to Xinhua, local officials would also be given guidelines for rescuing trafficking and kidnapped women. Images of a woman in shackles that were uploaded online at the beginning of this year outraged people and sparked a discussion on how to deal with human trafficking, especially in rural areas where the problem has long been recognised. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China adopts new law for women's protection in first revision of statute in decades

New Zealand announces that it will allow citizens to access abortion services over the phone. Priyanka Sharma brings you the details

WION Fineprint | New Zealanders will be able to access abortions over the phone

A camping association in New Zealand has called on the government to amend the laws that allow people to poop in public if they don't think they are being watched. They want the law to be tightened amid long-running accusations that the campers are responsible for increase in excrement and toilet paper littering in popular tourist destinations.

Under the law, defecating or urinating in a public place (other than in a public lavatory) is an offence, but, if the person can show they had reasonable grounds for believing they were not being observed, they may be able to escape a $200 fine.

"There is no law in New Zealand that forces one to poop their pants if caught short, and RCAi believes minimising the more undesirable aftermath would be the most appropriate way of addressing the problem in the short term," the Responsible Campers Association Inc (RCAi) told local news channel, Newshub.

The RCAi argues that the law should also require people to show they conducted their business at least 50 metres from a waterway and the waste is buried to at least 15cm.

It has also called for more toilet facilities to be made available to travellers as the ideal long-term solution, calling for the Waka Kotahi, the NZ Transport Agency, to fund these alongside state highways.

The freedom camping group has been in the news over the years over concerns about its impact on the environment, especially when it comes to campers’ personal waste.

The freedom campers are often accused of pooing in public and littering with toilet papers in tourist destinations. Some local councils have opted to ban the campers&nbsp;from hotspots altogether.

Frictions between campers, locals and the government peaked in late 2020, when tourism minister Stuart Nash told the national broadcaster, RNZ, that freedom campers in non self-contained vehicles “pull over to the side of the road and … shit in our waterways”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A camping association in New Zealand has called on the government to amend the laws that allow people to poop in public if they don't think they are being watched.

A camping association in New Zealand has called on the government to amend the laws that allow people to poop in public if they don't think they are being watched. They want the law to be tightened amid long-running accusations that the campers are responsible for increase in excrement and toilet paper littering in popular tourist destinations. Under the law, defecating or urinating in a public place (other than in a public lavatory) is an offence, but, if the person can show they had reasonable grounds for believing they were not being observed, they may be able to escape a $200 fine. "There is no law in New Zealand that forces one to poop their pants if caught short, and RCAi believes minimising the more undesirable aftermath would be the most appropriate way of addressing the problem in the short term," the Responsible Campers Association Inc (RCAi) told local news channel, Newshub. The RCAi argues that the law should also require people to show they conducted their business at least 50 metres from a waterway and the waste is buried to at least 15cm. It has also called for more toilet facilities to be made available to travellers as the ideal long-term solution, calling for the Waka Kotahi, the NZ Transport Agency, to fund these alongside state highways. The freedom camping group has been in the news over the years over concerns about its impact on the environment, especially when it comes to campers’ personal waste. The freedom campers are often accused of pooing in public and littering with toilet papers in tourist destinations. Some local councils have opted to ban the campers from hotspots altogether. Frictions between campers, locals and the government peaked in late 2020, when tourism minister Stuart Nash told the national broadcaster, RNZ, that freedom campers in non self-contained vehicles “pull over to the side of the road and … shit in our waterways”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Call grows to tighten New Zealand law that allows public pooping if no one watching

The German parliament has now decided to support the right for women to get a safe abortion. Germany has abolished a law which had forbidden doctors from providing information about abortions in Germany.

Germany abolishes anti-abortion law, supports women's right to abortion

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