Women's football faces many obstacles in Sudan with the security situation remaining. The main problem. There is also another issue - women being discriminated against for participating in sports and watching soccer. An initiative in Khartoum is now allowing women and children to follow the games at the FIFA World Cup 2022, comfortably.

World of Africa: The World Cup is for all

The future of Cyril Ramaphosa as President of South Africa hangs in the balance as a cloud of controversy surrounds his head. Section 89 independent panel has found that Ramaphosa may have violated his oath of office. What's this saga all about and how damning is it? Kalden ongmu has filed this report.

World of Africa: Breather for embattled South African President

Florida is notorious for strange happenings, from fearless residents battling gators to wacky plans of "shooting down" hurricanes, the internet is full of at times unbelievable stories from the US state. Now, a mysterious 80 feet object found at one of Florida's beaches is making news with people speculating whether it's a sunken ship or something sinister.

The large mysterious object has surfaced through the sands at Daytona Beach shores in Volusia County, and it is creating a buzz.

Watch |&nbsp;Charred Moai statues are a symbol of growing tensions

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Officials and beachgoers recently discovered the unknown object which may have been uncovered thanks to the two hurricanes that ripped through Florida recently; Hurricane Ian in September and Hurricane Nicole in November. A steady barrage of high tides and rough surf also played a role in the object's discovery.

Reportedly Hurricane Nicole was one of the most powerful storms to strike the United States in the past decade.

The mysterious object seems to be made of wood and metal and is a &nbsp;whopping 80 feet long, said officials as per the New York Times. Typically interesting finds like these are roped off to protect them, however in this case, as high tides continue to submerge the object, roping it off is not an option.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wreckage-of-the-sister-ship-of-17th-century-vesa-warship-discovered-in-sweden-528182">Wreckage of the sister ship of 17th-century Vesa warship discovered in Sweden</a>

Kevin Captain, a spokesperson for the Volusia County government said that the state's underwater archaeological team has been notified to investigate the object further.

"It is a mystery," said Tamra Malphurs, a spokesperson for Volusia County Beach Safety.&nbsp;

"Many people think it is an old ship of some sort," she added.

Talking to WKMG-TV she remarked "We haven't seen this kind of erosion in a very long time", adding that she's been a regular at the beach for about 25 years but that this is her first time seeing the object.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/louisiana-man-discovers-a-19th-century-boat-as-mississippi-river-runs-dry-526130" target="_blank">Louisiana man discovers a 19th-century boat as Mississippi river runs dry</a>

Theories circulating on social media and local news channels have some suggestions about what it could be; a shipwreck, a portion of an old pier, a boardwalk, a barrier or maybe even audience seating from back when NASCAR had races on the beaches.

In the past, too all sorts of mysterious objects have emerged from the sands of Florida beaches.

Just last year, in August 2021 a high school student found a 1715 Fleet gold coin near Turtle trail beach.&nbsp;In November 2020, a shipwreck dating back 200-plus years was also discovered after Tropical Storm Sta eroded the sand dunes in St Augustine.

"Every now and then, something pops up, and usually, you can tell what it is," said Malphurs adding "This one, you just can’t confirm."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Florida is notorious for strange happenings, from fearless residents battling gators to wacky plans of "shooting down" hurricanes, the internet is full of at times unbelievable stories from the US state.

Florida is notorious for strange happenings, from fearless residents battling gators to wacky plans of "shooting down" hurricanes, the internet is full of at times unbelievable stories from the US state. Now, a mysterious 80 feet object found at one of Florida's beaches is making news with people speculating whether it's a sunken ship or something sinister. The large mysterious object has surfaced through the sands at Daytona Beach shores in Volusia County, and it is creating a buzz. Watch | Charred Moai statues are a symbol of growing tensions Officials and beachgoers recently discovered the unknown object which may have been uncovered thanks to the two hurricanes that ripped through Florida recently; Hurricane Ian in September and Hurricane Nicole in November. A steady barrage of high tides and rough surf also played a role in the object's discovery. Reportedly Hurricane Nicole was one of the most powerful storms to strike the United States in the past decade. The mysterious object seems to be made of wood and metal and is a whopping 80 feet long, said officials as per the New York Times. Typically interesting finds like these are roped off to protect them, however in this case, as high tides continue to submerge the object, roping it off is not an option. Also read | Wreckage of the sister ship of 17th-century Vesa warship discovered in Sweden Kevin Captain, a spokesperson for the Volusia County government said that the state's underwater archaeological team has been notified to investigate the object further. "It is a mystery," said Tamra Malphurs, a spokesperson for Volusia County Beach Safety. "Many people think it is an old ship of some sort," she added. Talking to WKMG-TV she remarked "We haven't seen this kind of erosion in a very long time", adding that she's been a regular at the beach for about 25 years but that this is her first time seeing the object. Also read | Louisiana man discovers a 19th-century boat as Mississippi river runs dry Theories circulating on social media and local news channels have some suggestions about what it could be; a shipwreck, a portion of an old pier, a boardwalk, a barrier or maybe even audience seating from back when NASCAR had races on the beaches. In the past, too all sorts of mysterious objects have emerged from the sands of Florida beaches. Just last year, in August 2021 a high school student found a 1715 Fleet gold coin near Turtle trail beach. In November 2020, a shipwreck dating back 200-plus years was also discovered after Tropical Storm Sta eroded the sand dunes in St Augustine. "Every now and then, something pops up, and usually, you can tell what it is," said Malphurs adding "This one, you just can’t confirm." (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.

Florida beach chucks up a weird 80 feet object, what it is remains 'a mystery'

Liberia’s President, George Weah, has been out of the country for a month and is expected to continue his travels for the next two weeks. He is in Qatar to encourage his son who does not even play for the Liberian team at the world cup. Monrovians are angry at their leader, they say he has neglected his duties as president and left its people vulnerable.

World of Africa: Liberian President faces heat over his foreign trips

Members of the Rastafarian community proudly wear dreadlocks. The number of Rastafarians in Sudan is however unknown. The whiff of freedom after the fall of Omar Al Bashir enabled many Rastas to thrive. However, it did not last as a post-Bashir transition to civilian rule was upended last year when army chief Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan led a military coup. The community doesn’t want to go back to largely living underground. They have vowed to fight on.

World of Africa: Fighting stereotype in Sudan

Nigerians are no strangers to fuel scarcity. It has almost become a ritual. At least once a year, they endure long queues at filling stations or buy at higher prices at black markets. And in December, people spend a sizeable portion of their holiday hustling for fuel at filling stations. What's causing the fuel crisis in Nigeria? Louisa Olaniyi explains.

World of Africa: Nigeria's fuel crisis worsens

The fact-finding team investigating the murder of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif in its report has concluded that his killing was a "planned assassination"&nbsp;by transnational individuals&nbsp;and not a case of "mistaken identity".&nbsp;The Pakistani senior journalist was shot dead on October 23 as he was chased by the Kenyan police.&nbsp;

The committee's 592-page report questioned two&nbsp;aspects — the Kenyan police and statements by Sharif's&nbsp;hosts Waqar and Khurram.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/was-pakistani-journalist-arshad-sharif-tortured-before-death-controversy-deepens-as-shocking-claims-emerge-533048">Also read |&nbsp;Was Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif tortured before death? Controversy deepens as shocking claims emerge</a>

Firstly, the report claimed that statements given by Waqar indicated his links with Kenya's National Intelligence Service (NIS) and other intelligence services. As soon as Sharif died, Waqar handed over his phone and iPad to a NIS officer rather than the police, the Express Tribune reported.&nbsp;

"His linkage with national and international agencies provides a scope of possibilities of transnational characters in this case," the report stated.&nbsp;

The report suggests that transnational individuals from Pakistan, Kenya, and Dubai cannot be ruled out.&nbsp;

Khurram's statements were found contradicting to facts&nbsp;as no bullet marks were found on Sharif's car seat.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-prominent-journalist-arshad-sharifs-body-arrives-in-islamabad-528621">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan: Body of slain journalist Arshad Sharif arrives in Islamabad from Kenya</a>

The report also questioned the claims of "mistaken identity"&nbsp;by the Kenyan police as the statements by GSU police officials contradicted it. However, the committee report further acknowledged that the police did mention 'fingernails' taken for DNA samples but did not specify how many.&nbsp;

The report said, "Keeping in view the apparent differences in the two post-mortem reports, there is no concrete evidence to establish that Arshad Sharif was tortured before the killing."

The team also stated that Sharif was forced to leave Pakistan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The fact-finding team investigating the murder of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif in its report has concluded that his killing was a "planned assassination" by transnational individuals and not a case of "mistaken identity".

The fact-finding team investigating the murder of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif in its report has concluded that his killing was a "planned assassination" by transnational individuals and not a case of "mistaken identity". The Pakistani senior journalist was shot dead on October 23 as he was chased by the Kenyan police. The committee's 592-page report questioned two aspects — the Kenyan police and statements by Sharif's hosts Waqar and Khurram. Also read | Was Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif tortured before death? Controversy deepens as shocking claims emerge Firstly, the report claimed that statements given by Waqar indicated his links with Kenya's National Intelligence Service (NIS) and other intelligence services. As soon as Sharif died, Waqar handed over his phone and iPad to a NIS officer rather than the police, the Express Tribune reported. "His linkage with national and international agencies provides a scope of possibilities of transnational characters in this case," the report stated. The report suggests that transnational individuals from Pakistan, Kenya, and Dubai cannot be ruled out. Khurram's statements were found contradicting to facts as no bullet marks were found on Sharif's car seat. Also read | Pakistan: Body of slain journalist Arshad Sharif arrives in Islamabad from Kenya The report also questioned the claims of "mistaken identity" by the Kenyan police as the statements by GSU police officials contradicted it. However, the committee report further acknowledged that the police did mention 'fingernails' taken for DNA samples but did not specify how many. The report said, "Keeping in view the apparent differences in the two post-mortem reports, there is no concrete evidence to establish that Arshad Sharif was tortured before the killing." The team also stated that Sharif was forced to leave Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Senior Pak journalist Arshad Sharif's murder was 'planned assassination' not 'mistaken identity' case: Report

High-stakes biodiversity negotiations are starting on Wednesday (Dec 7) in Canada, touted as the "last best chance" to save Earth's species and ecosystems from humanity and the irreversible destruction it's causing.

At the beginning of the talks that will hammer out a 10-year framework to save the planet's forests, oceans, and species, UN chief Antonio Guterres warned that "with our bottomless appetite for unchecked and unequal economic growth, humanity has become a weapon of mass extinction."

"This conference is our chance to stop this orgy of destruction," he added.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Canada to host UN Biodiversity Summit to safeguard nature

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The meeting, officially known as COP15 will last from December 7-19 and comes after two years of Covid-related delay and recent several days long pre-negotiations that saw very little progress on key issues.

Hopes from the two-week UN summit includes a deal that ensures that future generation has more "nature" by the end of this decade than Earth has now.

Vanishing at a rate not seen in 10 million years, currently, more than one billion species, especially insects are facing the threat of extinction. Additionally, as per the 2022 UN Global Land Outlook assessment, around 40 per cent of the planet's land is considered degraded.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/by-2025-funds-for-nature-conservation-must-total-384-billion-annually-unep-539083">By 2025, funds for nature conservation must total $384 billion annually: UNEP</a>

Draft targets as per AFP include a 10-year framework with the pledge to protect 30 per cent of the world's land and seas by 2030.

Any deal reached during the summit will have to be agreed upon by all 196 governments under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

However, funding remains a contentious issue, with developing nations demanding increased funding for conservation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/18-billion-thats-how-much-governments-fund-every-year-to-human-extinction-and-climate-change-454012">$1.8 billion; that's how much govt subsidies contribute every year to human extinction &amp; climate change</a>

Earlier this year a group of nations called for wealthy nations to offer $100 billion annually for biodiversity, with the contribution rising to $700 billion a year by 2020. Some countries are also backing a separate funding mechanism, a move resisted by wealthy nations.

The summit has been labelled as "probably the last best chance for governments to turn things around for nature, and to rescue our precious life support system," by the head of international Advocacy at WWF, Bernadette Fischler Hooper.

(With inputs from agencies)

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High-stakes biodiversity negotiations are starting on Wednesday (Dec 7) in Canada, touted as the "last best chance" to save Earth's species and ecosystems from humanity and the irreversible destruction it's causing.

High-stakes biodiversity negotiations are starting on Wednesday (Dec 7) in Canada, touted as the "last best chance" to save Earth's species and ecosystems from humanity and the irreversible destruction it's causing. At the beginning of the talks that will hammer out a 10-year framework to save the planet's forests, oceans, and species, UN chief Antonio Guterres warned that "with our bottomless appetite for unchecked and unequal economic growth, humanity has become a weapon of mass extinction." "This conference is our chance to stop this orgy of destruction," he added. Watch | WION Climate Tracker: Canada to host UN Biodiversity Summit to safeguard nature The meeting, officially known as COP15 will last from December 7-19 and comes after two years of Covid-related delay and recent several days long pre-negotiations that saw very little progress on key issues. Hopes from the two-week UN summit includes a deal that ensures that future generation has more "nature" by the end of this decade than Earth has now. Vanishing at a rate not seen in 10 million years, currently, more than one billion species, especially insects are facing the threat of extinction. Additionally, as per the 2022 UN Global Land Outlook assessment, around 40 per cent of the planet's land is considered degraded. Also read | By 2025, funds for nature conservation must total $384 billion annually: UNEP Draft targets as per AFP include a 10-year framework with the pledge to protect 30 per cent of the world's land and seas by 2030. Any deal reached during the summit will have to be agreed upon by all 196 governments under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). However, funding remains a contentious issue, with developing nations demanding increased funding for conservation. Also read | $1.8 billion; that's how much govt subsidies contribute every year to human extinction & climate change Earlier this year a group of nations called for wealthy nations to offer $100 billion annually for biodiversity, with the contribution rising to $700 billion a year by 2020. Some countries are also backing a separate funding mechanism, a move resisted by wealthy nations. The summit has been labelled as "probably the last best chance for governments to turn things around for nature, and to rescue our precious life support system," by the head of international Advocacy at WWF, Bernadette Fischler Hooper. (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.

As critical nature talks open, UN chief says 'humanity has become a weapon of mass destruction'

An epidemiologist who claims to have worked closely with the Wuhan lab says Covid-19 was made in the facility. This scientist says U.S. helped China make the coronavirus, and handed the Chinese 'bioweapon technology'.

Gravitas: Did the US help China cover up Covid-19 outbreak?

Afghanistan was gripped by terror once again on Tuesday as 2 attacks unfolded in 2 different cities. The attacks coincided with an NSA-level meeting held by India to discuss the security situation in Afghanistan.

Gravitas: Terror strikes Afghanistan again

Neuralink is developing a brain implant in hopes to help paralysed people walk again. But now Musk's company is under the federal scanner for potential animal-welfare violations.

Gravitas: 1500 animals killed in Neuralink trials

1 in 5 employees face harassment, psychological abuse at work. What does this do to the employee's self-esteem? How can managers make the workspace safer?

Gravitas: 1 in 5 employees face harassment at work

Xi Jinping 'hijacked' the state funeral held for former Chinese President Jiang Zemin. He used the ceremony to trumpet his own agenda & achievements.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping grabs the spotlight at Jiang Zemin's funeral

Oxford has chosen 'Goblin Mode' as the word of the year. But what does this word even mean?

Gravitas: Goblin Mode is Oxford's word of the year

Indonesia has criminalised sex outside of marriage. Those found guilty can face imprisonment for a year. What does it spell for the right to privacy?

Gravitas: Indonesia criminalises sex outside marriage

You would think that well-qualified MPs would score high on standardised tests taken by 10-year-old school children, however, a mock exam conducted at an event in UK's Westminster proved otherwise.&nbsp;At the event organised by More Than A Score, a campaign that advocated for the scrapping of unnecessary tests, an MP sitting for a year six SAT exam actually scored less than Britain's average 10-year-olds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/florida-beach-chucks-up-a-weird-80-feet-object-what-it-is-remains-a-mystery-540812">Florida beach chucks up a weird 80 feet object, what it is remains 'a mystery'</a>

Guardian reports that in the test undertaken by Commons education select committee, chair Robin Walker and other MPs only 44 per cent of the "class" of parliamentarians scored the expected standard score in maths, while about 50 per cent scored the standard in English grammar, punctuation and spelling.

This is far below what the children achieve; this year as per Times, 71 per cent of 10 and 11-year-olds across the country reached the expected standard in maths, while 72 per cent got the expected score in English grammar, punctuation and spelling.&nbsp;

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This morning I did my Maths and Grammar SAT exams with <a href="https://twitter.com/MoreThanScore?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoreThanScore</a> under the same conditions that our Year 6 children experience - invigilated by the children themselves! 
👩‍🎓📝<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BSSI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BSSI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MoreThanAScore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MoreThanAScore</a> <a href="https://t.co/dvZX68SaQi">pic.twitter.com/dvZX68SaQi</a>
— Emma Lewell-Buck MP (@EmmaLewellBuck) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmaLewellBuck/status/1600150887522975745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The pressure in the room is palpable as MPs sit the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SATs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SATs</a> exam in Westminster under the exact conditions Year 6’s experience <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BSSI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BSSI</a> <a href="https://t.co/j5u5yhlpm1">pic.twitter.com/j5u5yhlpm1</a>
— More Than A Score (@MoreThanScore) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoreThanScore/status/1600081187543793664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In 2019, the last time this test was conducted, a higher number of students; 65 per cent achieved the expected score.

The aim of the More Than A Score event was to make politicians realise that the high-pressure exams "only judge schools but do not help children’s learning".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-festive-travel-set-to-take-a-hit-amid-planned-rail-strikes-in-december-540854">UK festive travel set to take a hit amid planned rail strikes in December</a>

While the campaign may not have successfully convinced MPs about altogether scrapping the tests, it did make them acknowledge the sheer pressure these young children face.

Robin Walker, the new chair of the education select committee, as per Guardian, acknowledged that reform is needed.

However, the politician said that while reform is needed "there will always be a place for testing but that cannot be the be-all and end-all to accessing the most opportunity. Ultimately, it’s not just about testing but it’s how we develop their love of reading."

(With inputs from agencies)

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You would think that well-qualified MPs would score high on standardised tests taken by 10-year-old school children, however, a mock exam conducted at an event in UK's Westminster proved otherwise.

You would think that well-qualified MPs would score high on standardised tests taken by 10-year-old school children, however, a mock exam conducted at an event in UK's Westminster proved otherwise. At the event organised by More Than A Score, a campaign that advocated for the scrapping of unnecessary tests, an MP sitting for a year six SAT exam actually scored less than Britain's average 10-year-olds. Also read | Florida beach chucks up a weird 80 feet object, what it is remains 'a mystery' Guardian reports that in the test undertaken by Commons education select committee, chair Robin Walker and other MPs only 44 per cent of the "class" of parliamentarians scored the expected standard score in maths, while about 50 per cent scored the standard in English grammar, punctuation and spelling. This is far below what the children achieve; this year as per Times, 71 per cent of 10 and 11-year-olds across the country reached the expected standard in maths, while 72 per cent got the expected score in English grammar, punctuation and spelling. This morning I did my Maths and Grammar SAT exams with @MoreThanScore under the same conditions that our Year 6 children experience - invigilated by the children themselves! 👩‍🎓📝#BSSI #MoreThanAScore pic.twitter.com/dvZX68SaQi — Emma Lewell-Buck MP (@EmmaLewellBuck) December 6, 2022 × The pressure in the room is palpable as MPs sit the #SATs exam in Westminster under the exact conditions Year 6’s experience #BSSI pic.twitter.com/j5u5yhlpm1 — More Than A Score (@MoreThanScore) December 6, 2022 × In 2019, the last time this test was conducted, a higher number of students; 65 per cent achieved the expected score. The aim of the More Than A Score event was to make politicians realise that the high-pressure exams "only judge schools but do not help children’s learning". Also read | UK festive travel set to take a hit amid planned rail strikes in December While the campaign may not have successfully convinced MPs about altogether scrapping the tests, it did make them acknowledge the sheer pressure these young children face. Robin Walker, the new chair of the education select committee, as per Guardian, acknowledged that reform is needed. However, the politician said that while reform is needed "there will always be a place for testing but that cannot be the be-all and end-all to accessing the most opportunity. Ultimately, it’s not just about testing but it’s how we develop their love of reading." (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.

Exams 'do not help children’s learning': UK MPs score lower than the average 10-year-old

Keeping with his "extremely hardcore" theme, as per reports, Elon Musk has now set up conference rooms turned bedrooms for employees at the company's headquarters in San Francisco.

It's been a month since Elon Musk took over Twitter as the Chief twit, and in this short span of time, he has fired 7,500 employees, axed executives and engineers who spoke up against his ideas and issued an ultimatum to the remaining employees: work "extremely hardcore" or leave.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;The Twitter Files: Independent journalist Matt Taibbi makes the revelation

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In the latest "shock" to them, when the disgruntled employees showed up for work on Monday (November 5), they were greeted by the sight of "modest bedrooms featuring unmade mattresses, drab curtains and giant conference-room telepresence monitors", reports Forbes.

As per the latest reports, San Francisco's Department of Building Inspection has launched an investigation into the complaint that Musk has converted the company's headquarters.

"We need to make sure the building is being used as intended," said Patrick Hannan, the department's communications director adding that residential buildings, even those meant for short stays have "different building code requirements".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-on-the-todo-list-musk-now-wants-to-change-twitters-word-limit-538009">'It's on the to-do list': Musk now wants to change Twitter's word limit</a>

While the makeshift bedrooms may be considered a significant upgrade from the sleeping bag situation that went viral in November after a Twitter employee tweeted a picture of herself sleeping in the office, it is still &nbsp;"disrespectful".

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As per a Forbes report citing an anonymous source, the move was not preceded by any discussion with the staff or even an announcement. They received no context and had to presume that the beds are for the remaining employees to stay over at the office overnight.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-brain-chip-firm-neuralink-under-lens-over-animal-abuse-claims-540404">Elon Musk’s brain chip firm Neuralink under lens over animal abuse claims</a>

"It’s not a good look," said one employee as quoted by Forbes.&nbsp;

"It’s yet another unspoken sign of disrespect. There is no discussion. Just like, beds showed up."

It remains unclear just how many beds are there, however, the anonymous source speculates that there were "four to eight" uncomfortable-looking beds on every floor.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Keeping with his "extremely hardcore" theme, as per reports, Elon Musk has now set up conference rooms turned bedrooms for employees at the company's headquarters in San Francisco.

Keeping with his "extremely hardcore" theme, as per reports, Elon Musk has now set up conference rooms turned bedrooms for employees at the company's headquarters in San Francisco. It's been a month since Elon Musk took over Twitter as the Chief twit, and in this short span of time, he has fired 7,500 employees, axed executives and engineers who spoke up against his ideas and issued an ultimatum to the remaining employees: work "extremely hardcore" or leave. Watch | The Twitter Files: Independent journalist Matt Taibbi makes the revelation In the latest "shock" to them, when the disgruntled employees showed up for work on Monday (November 5), they were greeted by the sight of "modest bedrooms featuring unmade mattresses, drab curtains and giant conference-room telepresence monitors", reports Forbes. As per the latest reports, San Francisco's Department of Building Inspection has launched an investigation into the complaint that Musk has converted the company's headquarters. "We need to make sure the building is being used as intended," said Patrick Hannan, the department's communications director adding that residential buildings, even those meant for short stays have "different building code requirements". Also read | 'It's on the to-do list': Musk now wants to change Twitter's word limit While the makeshift bedrooms may be considered a significant upgrade from the sleeping bag situation that went viral in November after a Twitter employee tweeted a picture of herself sleeping in the office, it is still "disrespectful". When you need something from your boss at elon twitter pic.twitter.com/hfArXl5NiL — Evan Jones (@evanstnlyjones) November 2, 2022 × As per a Forbes report citing an anonymous source, the move was not preceded by any discussion with the staff or even an announcement. They received no context and had to presume that the beds are for the remaining employees to stay over at the office overnight. Also read | Elon Musk’s brain chip firm Neuralink under lens over animal abuse claims "It’s not a good look," said one employee as quoted by Forbes. "It’s yet another unspoken sign of disrespect. There is no discussion. Just like, beds showed up." It remains unclear just how many beds are there, however, the anonymous source speculates that there were "four to eight" uncomfortable-looking beds on every floor. (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.

Musk's 'hardcore' Twitter 2.0: Beds show up overnight at HQ, employees call it 'unspoken sign of disrespect'

On Tuesday, Indonesia's parliament approved legislation that penalises sex outside of marriage with one year of imprisonment.

The move has been touted by lawmakers as a step forward, leaving behind an "inherited" colonial criminal code. However, rights groups have labelled the amendment as a crackdown on civil liberties.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Indonesia set to punish sex before marriage

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"We have tried our best to accommodate the important issues and different opinions which were debated. However, it is time for us to make a historical decision on the penal code amendment and to leave the colonial criminal code we inherited behind," Yasonna Laoly, the Minister of Law and Human Rights, told parliament as the new controversial criminal code received a majority of votes during the plenary session.

The new legislation also criminalises extra-marital sex and unmarried couples living together.

Opponents of the legislation have raised concerns over how this may impact same-sex couples. In Indonesia gay marriage is illegal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-to-penalise-sex-outside-marriage-as-part-of-criminal-code-revision-539475">Indonesia to make sex outside marriage punishable as part of criminal code revision</a>

However, Albert Aries, the spokesperson of the Law and Human Rights Ministry's criminal code bill dissemination team, defended the amendments and said the law would protect marriage institutions.&nbsp;

Rights groups slammed it as moral policing and a crackdown on civil, and political freedoms. They say that in a country boasting the world's most populous Muslim majority and long hailed for religious tolerance, &nbsp;the law is a shift towards fundamentalism. On Monday, citizens too took to the streets in protest.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-to-update-rape-definition-lawmakers-clash-over-no-means-no-and-only-yes-means-yes-approaches-540413">Switzerland to update rape definition; lawmakers clash over 'no means no' and 'only yes means yes' approaches</a>

As per Aries, the amendment cannot be misused as acts of pre-marital and extra-marital sex can only be reported by a spouse, parents or children.

"We are going backward... repressive laws should have been abolished but the bill shows that the arguments of scholars abroad are true, that our democracy is indisputably in decline," said Amnesty International Indonesia director Usman Hamid while talking to AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Tuesday, Indonesia's parliament approved legislation that penalises sex outside of marriage with one year of imprisonment. The move has been touted by lawmakers as a step forward, leaving behind an "inherited" colonial criminal code.

On Tuesday, Indonesia's parliament approved legislation that penalises sex outside of marriage with one year of imprisonment. The move has been touted by lawmakers as a step forward, leaving behind an "inherited" colonial criminal code. However, rights groups have labelled the amendment as a crackdown on civil liberties. Watch | WION Fineprint: Indonesia set to punish sex before marriage "We have tried our best to accommodate the important issues and different opinions which were debated. However, it is time for us to make a historical decision on the penal code amendment and to leave the colonial criminal code we inherited behind," Yasonna Laoly, the Minister of Law and Human Rights, told parliament as the new controversial criminal code received a majority of votes during the plenary session. The new legislation also criminalises extra-marital sex and unmarried couples living together. Opponents of the legislation have raised concerns over how this may impact same-sex couples. In Indonesia gay marriage is illegal. Also read | Indonesia to make sex outside marriage punishable as part of criminal code revision However, Albert Aries, the spokesperson of the Law and Human Rights Ministry's criminal code bill dissemination team, defended the amendments and said the law would protect marriage institutions. Rights groups slammed it as moral policing and a crackdown on civil, and political freedoms. They say that in a country boasting the world's most populous Muslim majority and long hailed for religious tolerance, the law is a shift towards fundamentalism. On Monday, citizens too took to the streets in protest. Also read | Switzerland to update rape definition; lawmakers clash over 'no means no' and 'only yes means yes' approaches As per Aries, the amendment cannot be misused as acts of pre-marital and extra-marital sex can only be reported by a spouse, parents or children. "We are going backward... repressive laws should have been abolished but the bill shows that the arguments of scholars abroad are true, that our democracy is indisputably in decline," said Amnesty International Indonesia director Usman Hamid while talking to AFP. (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.

Indonesia's new criminal code makes sex outside marriage a criminal offence, punishable with one year in jail

India-Central Asia NSA meeting is underway in New Delhi. Afghanistan remains the top focus at the meeting. The meeting will also focus on strengthening connectivity on both sides.

WION Dispatch: India-Central Asia NSA meet in New Delhi

Brazil coach Tite has defended the dance celebration by his players during the emphatic 4-1 pre-quarterfinal win over South Korea in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Brazil coach Tite has defended the dance celebration by his players during the emphatic 4-1 pre-quarterfinal win over South Korea in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar. "We try to adapt to the characteristics of the players. They [players] are very young and I try to adapt a bit to their language, and part of their language is dancing," said Tite at a post-match press conference. "They said I had to learn how to do the moves. They’re very tight and difficult, but we kept playing around. Richarlison was there and I said: ‘What’s that dance?’ I said: ‘If you do it, then I’ll do it.'" Tite added that he knew the dance could be interpreted as disrespectful but it wasn't intended that way and that he had utmost respect for the South Koreans. "There are various people who will say it was disrespectful. I know there’s always a camera and I didn’t want it to be misinterpreted.” "There was no disrespect for the opposition nor towards (South Korean coach) Paulo Bento for whom I have a lot of respect." Brazil were off the blocks in fine fashion against the Koreans who could not cope with the pace of the Seleção. Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior registered his name on the scoresheet in the seventh minute with a brilliant strike to the top corner. Read more: Imperious Brazil smash Koreans 4-1 to reach quarters Afterwards, the Brazilian players gathered in a huddle and celebrated by dancing. However, it was the third Brazilian goal where Richarlison orchestrated and finished the move with a brilliant goal that irked many. After the goal, Richarlison and his teammates went to Tite on the sidelines and urged him to join the celebrations. The 61-year-old promptly joined and did a couple of steps before breaking off. While the Brazilians were expressing happiness through dancing, it did not go down well with certain former players turned experts. TV pundit Roy Keane said the dance was 'disrespectful' to South Korea. “I don’t like this. I think it’s disrespecting the opposition. It’s four [goals] and they’re doing it every time. I’m not happy with it, I don’t think it’s very good at all,” said Keane in a TV show. Read more: Brazil at FIFA World Cup 2022: who is in Tite's 26-man squad? His fellow pundit and former Liverpool player Graeme Souness agreed and said, “It’s only a matter of time before someone goes right through one of these Brazilians." Brazil have qualified for the quarterfinals and will square up against 2018 finalists Croatia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022: Brazil coach Tite defends his team's dancing celebration after facing criticism

UK's opposition Labour Party vows for the biggest ever transfer of power from Westminster to the British people. Labour party's Chief Keir Starmer has vowed to shift the political power out of London.

Starmer: Rejoining European Union to not benefit economy | UK

Cuba is a country recognized for its boxing prowess. It's allowing the country's female boxers to compete officially after decades of restrictions. In a historic move, the government gave the green light to legalize participation of women in the sport.

Cuba: Female boxers to compete after six decades, women's boxing approved

A family run zoo near Caracas dedicated to the Venezuelan flora and fauna has welcomed a new family member. The zoo is celebrating the recent birth of a female spider monkey that brings hope for preserving a critically endangered species.

WION Climate Tracker: Venezuelan zoo welcomes new family member

The death toll from the tragic flash floods that swept away members of a church congregation along the Jukskei river in Johannesburg has risen from 9 to 40.

WION Climate Tracker | South Africa: Flash flood sweeps away church congregation members

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan accuses General Bajwa of playing double game with him. He also accused Bajwa of conspiring with PML-N Supremo. Watch further to know more.

WION Dispatch: Imran Khan accuses former Pakistan army chief of 'betraying' him

A new report says that about 1,500 animals have died at Neuralink, a brain chip company owned by Elon Musk. Employees say the excessive deaths are because of the pressure Musk puts on the team.

WION Fineprint | Excessive animal deaths at Musk's Neuralink?

A new study finds that pianos can help fight depression. Learning an instrument is shown to have positive effects on the mind.

WION Fineprint | Pianos may help fight depression

The US Supreme Court will decide whether a religious person can deny providing services to a same-sex couple because they claim it infringes on their right to free speech.

WION Fineprint | Free Speech vs Right to Non-Discrimination

If we have to name one of the most basic safety features of vehicles, the first thing you might think of is a seatbelt. Right? This passive safety device is designed to secure the driver or passenger of a vehicle against harmful movement that may result during a collision or a sudden stop. But not just that. A seatbelt, if buckled well, also guarantees the correct position of an occupant for the effective deployment of airbags. Have you ever thought about who invented the seatbelt and how it found use in automobiles?

WION Pitstop | Car Safety Facts: Who Invented the Seatbelt?

Indonesia's parliament has approved a new criminal code that will make sex outside of marriage punishable by up to a year in prison.

Sex outside marriage - A crime in Indonesia

Switzerland's lower house of parliament on Monday voted to dramatically broaden the nation's previously limited definition of rape to include sexual acts without explicit permission.

The current definition of rape in Switzerland as per AFP is limited to "forced vaginal penetration, met with a certain level of resistance by the woman".

It is widely agreed that the nation's definition needs to undergo a much-needed update that does not focus on particular sex and includes all non-consensual penetration, irrespective of whether the victim fought back.

While there might be a consensus that the definition needs to be broadened, there remains a heated debate on how this could be done.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Teens in Europe normalising online crime?

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Two different approaches have almost similar backing: "no means no" and "only yes means yes".

While they may seem similar there's a subtle difference between the two. As per the former approach, a sexual act can be considered rape if a person "explicitly" objects. Meanwhile the latter categorises any sexual act that was performed without explicit consent as rape.

Earlier this year Switzerland's upper house of parliament, the Council of States voted for the "no means no" approach.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-wives-encouraging-their-husbands-to-rape-ukrainian-women-alleges-first-lady-olena-zelenska-539149">Russian wives encouraging their husbands to rape Ukrainian women, alleges first lady Olena Zelenska</a>

However, the Monday vote by the lower house backs "only yes means yes". The option has already been taken up by a number of European nations including Spain, Sweden, Denmark and Belgium.

Emotions ran high during the debate on Monday, with 99 lawmakers voting for the significantly radical approach. 88 were in opposition and there three abstained from voting.

Hailing the vote as "a huge success" Amnesty International said it comes "after years of activist activity for the rights of women, of sexual abuse victims."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rape-took-only-11-minutes-swiss-court-cuts-jail-term-for-culprit-women-protest-404501">Rape took ‘only 11 minutes’: Swiss court cuts jail term for culprit, women protest</a>

Tamara Funiciello, a Socialist member of parliament according to the ATS news agency while backing the motion said "It is obvious that you don't take money out of your neighbour's wallet without asking. It is obvious that you don't enter someone's home without ringing the bell".

"Why should my wallet and my home be better protected than my body?" she questioned the floor.

However, right-leaning members of the Swiss parliament oppose the approach. In their opinion, it creates confusion and will be difficult to put into practice.

The two houses will now have to debate, and reach common ground before an amendment to the law can move forward. Following this under the nation's direct democratic system it will likely go to a popular vote.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Switzerland's lower house of parliament on Monday voted to dramatically broaden the nation's previously limited definition of rape to include sexual acts without explicit permission.

Switzerland's lower house of parliament on Monday voted to dramatically broaden the nation's previously limited definition of rape to include sexual acts without explicit permission. The current definition of rape in Switzerland as per AFP is limited to "forced vaginal penetration, met with a certain level of resistance by the woman". It is widely agreed that the nation's definition needs to undergo a much-needed update that does not focus on particular sex and includes all non-consensual penetration, irrespective of whether the victim fought back. While there might be a consensus that the definition needs to be broadened, there remains a heated debate on how this could be done. Watch | Gravitas: Teens in Europe normalising online crime? Two different approaches have almost similar backing: "no means no" and "only yes means yes". While they may seem similar there's a subtle difference between the two. As per the former approach, a sexual act can be considered rape if a person "explicitly" objects. Meanwhile the latter categorises any sexual act that was performed without explicit consent as rape. Earlier this year Switzerland's upper house of parliament, the Council of States voted for the "no means no" approach. Also read | Russian wives encouraging their husbands to rape Ukrainian women, alleges first lady Olena Zelenska However, the Monday vote by the lower house backs "only yes means yes". The option has already been taken up by a number of European nations including Spain, Sweden, Denmark and Belgium. Emotions ran high during the debate on Monday, with 99 lawmakers voting for the significantly radical approach. 88 were in opposition and there three abstained from voting. Hailing the vote as "a huge success" Amnesty International said it comes "after years of activist activity for the rights of women, of sexual abuse victims." Also read | Rape took ‘only 11 minutes’: Swiss court cuts jail term for culprit, women protest Tamara Funiciello, a Socialist member of parliament according to the ATS news agency while backing the motion said "It is obvious that you don't take money out of your neighbour's wallet without asking. It is obvious that you don't enter someone's home without ringing the bell". "Why should my wallet and my home be better protected than my body?" she questioned the floor. However, right-leaning members of the Swiss parliament oppose the approach. In their opinion, it creates confusion and will be difficult to put into practice. The two houses will now have to debate, and reach common ground before an amendment to the law can move forward. Following this under the nation's direct democratic system it will likely go to a popular vote. (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.

Switzerland to update rape definition; lawmakers clash over 'no means no' and 'only yes means yes' approaches

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