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Leading doctors have reportedly developed a medicine that prevents hot flashes by acting directly on the brain could transform treatments for the problem&nbsp;that a lot of women face during menopause. Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years.

Hot flashes are a common symptom experienced by many women during menopause and are characterised by a sudden feeling of warmth that spreads across the body, often accompanied by sweating, flushing of the skin, and an increased heart rate. They can occur during the day or at night, disrupting sleep and causing discomfort.

It is related to hormonal changes that occur during menopause, causing&nbsp;a decrease in estrogen levels and is thought to affect the hypothalamus in the brain. Hypothalamus&nbsp;is responsible for regulating body temperature and an effect on it leads to a misinterpretation of the body's temperature and triggers hot flashes.

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Experts claimed the medication fezolinetant might be revolutionary for the hundreds of thousands of women in the UK who cannot take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after the US approved the first non-hormonal menopause pill, produced by Astellas Pharma. The medication received a licence in the US on May 12 and may receive approval for usage in the UK by year's end.

“This is going to be a completely blockbuster drug,” said an endocrinologist at Imperial College London, Prof Waljit Dhillo. He led a trial in 2017 that led to the development of the medication.

“It’s like a switch. Within a day or two the flushes go away. It’s unbelievable how well these drugs work. It’s going to be completely game-changing for a lot of women.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-streamlines-marriage-registration-process-for-migrant-workers-amid-looming-population-crisis-594576">China streamlines marriage registration process for migrant workers amid looming population crisis</a>

The medication, which is being evaluated by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), blocks neurokinin-3, a brain protein that has a special function in menopausal women's body temperature regulation.

After 12 weeks of usage, fezolinetant decreased the incidence of hot flushes in women with moderate or severe symptoms by around 60 per cent, according to a major clinical trial that was published in March, compared to a 45 per cent&nbsp;reduction in those who got a placebo. Women also reported that the medication increased the quality of their sleep and lessened the severity of their hot flashes.

“What’s really amazing about these drugs is how quickly they work and how big an effect they have,” said Prof Richard Anderson, a co-director of the Centre for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh.

“Typically, estrogen takes several weeks to have an effect. With these, women are reporting effects from the first tablet.”

Hot flashes disrupt everyday life in about 70 per cent&nbsp;of menopausal women and are described as "near intolerable" by 10 to 20 per cent&nbsp;of them.&nbsp;

Nearly two&nbsp;million women in England received at least one HRT prescription each year, however, these treatments are not recommended for anyone with untreated high blood pressure, a history of blood clots, breast or ovarian cancer, or blood clots.&nbsp;

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They are the result of years of careful study by US neuropathologist Prof. Naomi Rance, who pinpointed a particular set of neurons that expand in menopausal women's brains. Rance revealed that these neurons emit the protein neurokinin-B, which may cause hot flashes by detecting minute temperature fluctuations in the tails of rats.

“I realised that understanding the brain circuitry controlling hot flushes could be useful for designing new treatments, but I never imagined that it would happen during my life,” said Rance, of the University of Arizona. “I was thrilled to learn about the FDA approval, in part because it illustrates how basic science research can lead to clinical applications.”

Rance's finding led to a study at Imperial College London, directed by Dhillo, which showed that a substance related to fezolinetant was particularly successful at preventing hot flashes in females.

“From our grant being awarded by NIHR [the National Institute for Health and Care Research] and MRC [the Medical Research Council], within two years we could show it had a 73 per cent&nbsp;reduction in hot flashes – that wouldn’t have happened without taxpayers’ funding of medical research,” Dhillo said adding, "Since doing our studies, we’ve had women all over the world writing to us saying: ‘How can I get this drug?’”

“There’s been this attitude that obesity kills, heart disease kills, diabetes kills, women’s health doesn’t kill. We can’t be in Western society and say 51 per cent&nbsp;of the population’s problems – if they don’t kill them immediately – aren’t important," he added.&nbsp;

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Leading doctors have reportedly developed a medicine that prevents hot flashes by acting directly on the brain could transform treatments for the problem that a lot of women face during menopause.

Leading doctors have reportedly developed a medicine that prevents hot flashes by acting directly on the brain could transform treatments for the problem that a lot of women face during menopause. Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. Hot flashes are a common symptom experienced by many women during menopause and are characterised by a sudden feeling of warmth that spreads across the body, often accompanied by sweating, flushing of the skin, and an increased heart rate. They can occur during the day or at night, disrupting sleep and causing discomfort. It is related to hormonal changes that occur during menopause, causing a decrease in estrogen levels and is thought to affect the hypothalamus in the brain. Hypothalamus is responsible for regulating body temperature and an effect on it leads to a misinterpretation of the body's temperature and triggers hot flashes. Also Read | Northern Ireland council elections 2023: Sinn Fein becomes largest party in local government Experts claimed the medication fezolinetant might be revolutionary for the hundreds of thousands of women in the UK who cannot take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after the US approved the first non-hormonal menopause pill, produced by Astellas Pharma. The medication received a licence in the US on May 12 and may receive approval for usage in the UK by year's end. “This is going to be a completely blockbuster drug,” said an endocrinologist at Imperial College London, Prof Waljit Dhillo. He led a trial in 2017 that led to the development of the medication. “It’s like a switch. Within a day or two the flushes go away. It’s unbelievable how well these drugs work. It’s going to be completely game-changing for a lot of women.” Also Read | China streamlines marriage registration process for migrant workers amid looming population crisis The medication, which is being evaluated by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), blocks neurokinin-3, a brain protein that has a special function in menopausal women's body temperature regulation. After 12 weeks of usage, fezolinetant decreased the incidence of hot flushes in women with moderate or severe symptoms by around 60 per cent, according to a major clinical trial that was published in March, compared to a 45 per cent reduction in those who got a placebo. Women also reported that the medication increased the quality of their sleep and lessened the severity of their hot flashes. “What’s really amazing about these drugs is how quickly they work and how big an effect they have,” said Prof Richard Anderson, a co-director of the Centre for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh. “Typically, estrogen takes several weeks to have an effect. With these, women are reporting effects from the first tablet.” Hot flashes disrupt everyday life in about 70 per cent of menopausal women and are described as "near intolerable" by 10 to 20 per cent of them. Nearly two million women in England received at least one HRT prescription each year, however, these treatments are not recommended for anyone with untreated high blood pressure, a history of blood clots, breast or ovarian cancer, or blood clots. Watch | Ukraine's Zelensky at centre of last day of G7 summit × They are the result of years of careful study by US neuropathologist Prof. Naomi Rance, who pinpointed a particular set of neurons that expand in menopausal women's brains. Rance revealed that these neurons emit the protein neurokinin-B, which may cause hot flashes by detecting minute temperature fluctuations in the tails of rats. “I realised that understanding the brain circuitry controlling hot flushes could be useful for designing new treatments, but I never imagined that it would happen during my life,” said Rance, of the University of Arizona. “I was thrilled to learn about the FDA approval, in part because it illustrates how basic science research can lead to clinical applications.” Rance's finding led to a study at Imperial College London, directed by Dhillo, which showed that a substance related to fezolinetant was particularly successful at preventing hot flashes in females. “From our grant being awarded by NIHR [the National Institute for Health and Care Research] and MRC [the Medical Research Council], within two years we could show it had a 73 per cent reduction in hot flashes – that wouldn’t have happened without taxpayers’ funding of medical research,” Dhillo said adding, "Since doing our studies, we’ve had women all over the world writing to us saying: ‘How can I get this drug?’” “There’s been this attitude that obesity kills, heart disease kills, diabetes kills, women’s health doesn’t kill. We can’t be in Western society and say 51 per cent of the population’s problems – if they don’t kill them immediately – aren’t important," he added. 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. ×

New brain-based medicine fezolinetant to cure hot flashes during menopause

Gender inequality affects every one. Gender roles and stereotypes often impact the lives of people living in a society. Rules about how men and women should be, begin in childhood and follow us throughout our life. It affects not only our life but also bears an impact on our mind. As per research, gender inequality is linked to differences in the structure of the brains of men & women.

Could gender inequality shrink women's brains? Study explains

Being a working mother is as fulfilling as it could be challenging. This International Mother's Day, we spoke to some of the working super-moms of WION about their experience. Take a look.

Mother's Day Special: A day in the life of working mothers

India's national capital is set to get 250 'pink parks' which will be strictly for women and men's entry will not be allowed. Speaking about this innovative plan, Delhi Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohammad Iqbal said that they have started the work of identifying locations to establish women-only 'pink parks' in every MCD ward.

The idea is to create a "more comfortable space" for women in the city besides ensuring that they get various amenities, he stated

"Recently, in a meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, I cited the example of a 'pink park' in my ward (Chandni Mahal) in old Delhi and suggested that such parks can be set up in all wards,” Iqbal said. "My idea found resonance with the Chief Minister and later, in a meeting of the civic body's Horticulture department, I proposed that each ward should have at least one such park," he added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhi-university-calls-rahul-gandhis-sudden-visit-an-act-of-trespass-591441">India: Delhi University calls Rahul Gandhi's sudden visit an act of 'trespass'</a>

250 wards fall under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) jurisdiction. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Iqbal said that they have set up a 'pink park' on Mata Sundari Road as a pilot project and in these parks, women can be accompanied by children till the age of 10.

The officials will be replicating the same model in other wards. The 'pink parks' of the capital will have CCTV cameras, toilets, gym facilities and walls decorated with graffiti to offer a comfortable space to the woman.

The deputy mayor of the national capital said that one park will be identified by the councillors in their respective wards for getting converted into 'pink parks'.

"Many councillors have been told to look for locations in their wards already. This initiative is to provide better and safer places for women in public parks and I am hopeful that even councillors from other parties will co-operate in achieving this vision," he said while speaking to news agency Press Trust of India (PTI).

MCD's senior official said that Iqbal tabled the proposal in the Horticulture department's recent meeting but "we will work on it if there is a demand for it from people of the wards".

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"A 'pink park' sounds very good but we, as a civic body, cannot just restrict access to a large segment of the male population, which include elderly people too, who may not agree to a public park being restricted to be used by people of just one gender," he stated.

"We will work on it as and when we get a request from an area councillor. If there is a demand from the residents and the councillors who represent them make a proposal for such women-only parks, we will take it forward," the official added.

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India's national capital is set to get 250 'pink parks' which will be strictly for women and men's entry will not be allowed. Speaking about this innovative plan, Delhi Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohammad Iqbal said that they have started the work of identifying locations to establish women-only 'pink parks' in every MCD ward.

India's national capital is set to get 250 'pink parks' which will be strictly for women and men's entry will not be allowed. Speaking about this innovative plan, Delhi Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohammad Iqbal said that they have started the work of identifying locations to establish women-only 'pink parks' in every MCD ward. The idea is to create a "more comfortable space" for women in the city besides ensuring that they get various amenities, he stated "Recently, in a meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, I cited the example of a 'pink park' in my ward (Chandni Mahal) in old Delhi and suggested that such parks can be set up in all wards,” Iqbal said. "My idea found resonance with the Chief Minister and later, in a meeting of the civic body's Horticulture department, I proposed that each ward should have at least one such park," he added. ALSO READ | India: Delhi University calls Rahul Gandhi's sudden visit an act of 'trespass' 250 wards fall under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) jurisdiction. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Iqbal said that they have set up a 'pink park' on Mata Sundari Road as a pilot project and in these parks, women can be accompanied by children till the age of 10. The officials will be replicating the same model in other wards. The 'pink parks' of the capital will have CCTV cameras, toilets, gym facilities and walls decorated with graffiti to offer a comfortable space to the woman. The deputy mayor of the national capital said that one park will be identified by the councillors in their respective wards for getting converted into 'pink parks'. "Many councillors have been told to look for locations in their wards already. This initiative is to provide better and safer places for women in public parks and I am hopeful that even councillors from other parties will co-operate in achieving this vision," he said while speaking to news agency Press Trust of India (PTI). MCD's senior official said that Iqbal tabled the proposal in the Horticulture department's recent meeting but "we will work on it if there is a demand for it from people of the wards". WATCH | The perks of an extended spring in Delhi "A 'pink park' sounds very good but we, as a civic body, cannot just restrict access to a large segment of the male population, which include elderly people too, who may not agree to a public park being restricted to be used by people of just one gender," he stated. "We will work on it as and when we get a request from an area councillor. If there is a demand from the residents and the councillors who represent them make a proposal for such women-only parks, we will take it forward," the official added. 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.

Men not allowed: India’s national capital to get 250 women-only ‘pink parks’

Tucker Carlson's latest behind-the-scenes leaked video showed the rightwing Fox News' former host making insinuating comments about a makeup artist. Carlson can be seen speaking about what women do when they are in the bathroom and if they ever engage in pillow fights.&nbsp;

Progressive watchdog Media Matters for America published Carlson's footage on Thursday. Carlson, in the video, can be seen asking the unnamed staffer, “When they go to the ladies room and ‘powder their noses’, is there actually nose-powdering going on?”

The woman replies, “Sometimes.” Carlson then says, “Oooh. I like the sound of that.”

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BREAKING: Media Matters releases their next ‘damning’ video clip against Tucker Carlson of him asking a team member about “pillow fights.” 
 
He then tells the team member what a good person they are. 
 
Thank you Media Matters for this uplifting content! 
 
“When they go to the ladies… <a href="https://t.co/SzR08Xc3eT">pic.twitter.com/SzR08Xc3eT</a>
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1654156575559536640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The footage emerged after another video was leaked in which Carlson made coarse remarks about a woman as well as viewers of Fox News. He also discussed sexual techniques with British TV host Piers Morgan in the video, made disparaging remarks about the streaming service of Fox Nation and commented on a lawyer who deposed the former host in the Dominion Voting Systems defamation suit, whom &nbsp;Carlson calls a “slimy little motherfucker”.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/f-yourself-leaked-videos-show-former-fox-news-host-tucker-carlson-making-inappropriate-statements-588400">'F*** yourself': Leaked videos show former Fox News host Tucker Carlson making inappropriate statements</a>

The $1.6 billion suit, which was based on the broadcast carried out by Fox News of the false claims made by Donald Trump about the 2020 US election, was last month settled for $787.5 million. Shortly after, Carlson was fired by Fox News in a surprise development. &nbsp;

<h2>Carlson’s insinuating comments in the viral video</h2>

In the video leaked on Thursday, Carlson is seen present on the set and is getting his makeup applied by an unidentified woman.&nbsp;

“Can I ask you a question? You don’t have to answer, it’s personal," Carlson says. The make-up artist indicates assent.

Carlson states, “I’m not speaking of you, but more in general with ladies, when they go to the ladies room and ‘powder their noses’, is there actually nose-powdering going on?”

The woman replies, “Sometimes.” Carlson then says, “Oooh. I like the sound of that.” The woman answers, “Most of the time, it’s lipstick.”

Continuing the conversation, Carlson asks, “Do pillow fights ever break out? You don’t have to, you don’t have to –”

The woman replies, “Not in the bathroom.” “OK. Not in the bathroom. That’d be more a dorm activity," says the host.&nbsp;

WATCH | Tucker Carlson's exit costs FOX $690 million

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After his unintelligible comment off camera, Carlson apologises to the woman

“I’m sorry. You are such a good sport. Such a good person. Thank you. I know you do, but you do not deserve that. And I mean it with great affection," he says, in the video.&nbsp; 
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Tucker Carlson's latest behind-the-scenes leaked video showed the rightwing Fox News' former host making insinuating comments about a makeup artist. Carlson can be seen speaking about what women do when they are in the bathroom and if they ever engage in pillow fights.

Tucker Carlson's latest behind-the-scenes leaked video showed the rightwing Fox News' former host making insinuating comments about a makeup artist. Carlson can be seen speaking about what women do when they are in the bathroom and if they ever engage in pillow fights. Progressive watchdog Media Matters for America published Carlson's footage on Thursday. Carlson, in the video, can be seen asking the unnamed staffer, “When they go to the ladies room and ‘powder their noses’, is there actually nose-powdering going on?” The woman replies, “Sometimes.” Carlson then says, “Oooh. I like the sound of that.” BREAKING: Media Matters releases their next ‘damning’ video clip against Tucker Carlson of him asking a team member about “pillow fights.” He then tells the team member what a good person they are. Thank you Media Matters for this uplifting content! “When they go to the ladies… pic.twitter.com/SzR08Xc3eT — Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) May 4, 2023 × The footage emerged after another video was leaked in which Carlson made coarse remarks about a woman as well as viewers of Fox News. He also discussed sexual techniques with British TV host Piers Morgan in the video, made disparaging remarks about the streaming service of Fox Nation and commented on a lawyer who deposed the former host in the Dominion Voting Systems defamation suit, whom Carlson calls a “slimy little motherfucker”. ALSO READ | 'F*** yourself': Leaked videos show former Fox News host Tucker Carlson making inappropriate statements The $1.6 billion suit, which was based on the broadcast carried out by Fox News of the false claims made by Donald Trump about the 2020 US election, was last month settled for $787.5 million. Shortly after, Carlson was fired by Fox News in a surprise development. Carlson’s insinuating comments in the viral video In the video leaked on Thursday, Carlson is seen present on the set and is getting his makeup applied by an unidentified woman. “Can I ask you a question? You don’t have to answer, it’s personal," Carlson says. The make-up artist indicates assent. Carlson states, “I’m not speaking of you, but more in general with ladies, when they go to the ladies room and ‘powder their noses’, is there actually nose-powdering going on?” The woman replies, “Sometimes.” Carlson then says, “Oooh. I like the sound of that.” The woman answers, “Most of the time, it’s lipstick.” Continuing the conversation, Carlson asks, “Do pillow fights ever break out? You don’t have to, you don’t have to –” The woman replies, “Not in the bathroom.” “OK. Not in the bathroom. That’d be more a dorm activity," says the host. WATCH | Tucker Carlson's exit costs FOX $690 million After his unintelligible comment off camera, Carlson apologises to the woman “I’m sorry. You are such a good sport. Such a good person. Thank you. I know you do, but you do not deserve that. And I mean it with great affection," he says, in the video. 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

WATCH | ‘I like the sound of that’: Tucker Carlson’s toxic remarks against women resurface

In a historic first, the Indian Army commissioned five women officers to its Regiment of Artillery.

The Regiment of Artillery is the second largest arm that constitutes a formidable operational arm of the Indian Army. The firepower of Artillery with its missiles, guns, mortars, rocket launchers and unmanned aerial vehicles packs a lethal punch and indeed makes it an ‘Arm of Decision’, as per Indian Army.&nbsp;

After successfully finishing their training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai on Saturday, the female officers joined the Regiment of Artillery.

Lt. Mehak Saini, Lt. Aditi Yadav, Lt. Sakshi Dubey and Lt. Pious Mudgil are the female officers who joined the Regiment of Artillery.

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The female officers will be assigned to various artillery units where they will receive the necessary training and experience to operate SATA (Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Rocket) and other equipment under difficult circumstances.

Three of the five female officers are assigned to forces stationed near northern borders, while the other two are dispatched to difficult regions in the Western Theatre.

Lt Mehak Saini is commissioned into a SATA Regiment. Lt Sakshi Dubey &amp; Lt Aditi Yadav are commissioned into Field Regiments, Lt Pious Mudgil is commissioned into a Medium Regiment and Lt Akanksha is commissioned into a Rocket Regiment.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-uses-night-vision-goggles-bravely-rescues-121-people-from-sudan-airstrip-587183">Indian Air Force uses night vision goggles, bravely rescues 121 people from Sudan airstrip</a>

In a statement, the Indian Army noted that the occasion was a significant turning point for the force's women officers, "who have been breaking barriers to serve their country with valour and distinction."

According to the Army, the five Women Officers (WOs) who are being commissioned will have access to the same chances and challenges as their male counterparts. Along with the WOs, 19 additional men were commissioned into the regiment.

At the commissioning ceremony the young women cadets took the oath of allegiance to the constitution and received their rank insignia.

Senior military leaders, including Lt. Gen. Adosh Kumar, Colonel Commandant, and Director General of Artillery (Designate), as well as dignitaries and the happy families of the newly commissioned officers, were present at the event.

Watch | After Russia's winter assault, Ukraine prepares for summer attack

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According to the sources cited by PTI news agency, of the five female officers, three are assigned to units stationed near China's borders while the other two are placed in "challenging locations" close to Pakistan's border.

The commissioning of women officers into the Regiment of Artillery is evidence of the Indian Army's progressive development. Gen Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff, made the decision to commission female officers into artillery units public in January. Later, the government agreed to the proposal.

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In a historic first, the Indian Army commissioned five women officers to its Regiment of Artillery. The Regiment of Artillery is the second largest arm that constitutes a formidable operational arm of the Indian Army.

In a historic first, the Indian Army commissioned five women officers to its Regiment of Artillery. The Regiment of Artillery is the second largest arm that constitutes a formidable operational arm of the Indian Army. The firepower of Artillery with its missiles, guns, mortars, rocket launchers and unmanned aerial vehicles packs a lethal punch and indeed makes it an ‘Arm of Decision’, as per Indian Army. After successfully finishing their training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai on Saturday, the female officers joined the Regiment of Artillery. Lt. Mehak Saini, Lt. Aditi Yadav, Lt. Sakshi Dubey and Lt. Pious Mudgil are the female officers who joined the Regiment of Artillery. Also Read | EU nations reach deal 'in principle' to transit grain from Ukraine The female officers will be assigned to various artillery units where they will receive the necessary training and experience to operate SATA (Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Rocket) and other equipment under difficult circumstances. Three of the five female officers are assigned to forces stationed near northern borders, while the other two are dispatched to difficult regions in the Western Theatre. Lt Mehak Saini is commissioned into a SATA Regiment. Lt Sakshi Dubey & Lt Aditi Yadav are commissioned into Field Regiments, Lt Pious Mudgil is commissioned into a Medium Regiment and Lt Akanksha is commissioned into a Rocket Regiment. Also Read | Indian Air Force uses night vision goggles, bravely rescues 121 people from Sudan airstrip In a statement, the Indian Army noted that the occasion was a significant turning point for the force's women officers, "who have been breaking barriers to serve their country with valour and distinction." According to the Army, the five Women Officers (WOs) who are being commissioned will have access to the same chances and challenges as their male counterparts. Along with the WOs, 19 additional men were commissioned into the regiment. At the commissioning ceremony the young women cadets took the oath of allegiance to the constitution and received their rank insignia. Senior military leaders, including Lt. Gen. Adosh Kumar, Colonel Commandant, and Director General of Artillery (Designate), as well as dignitaries and the happy families of the newly commissioned officers, were present at the event. Watch | After Russia's winter assault, Ukraine prepares for summer attack × According to the sources cited by PTI news agency, of the five female officers, three are assigned to units stationed near China's borders while the other two are placed in "challenging locations" close to Pakistan's border. The commissioning of women officers into the Regiment of Artillery is evidence of the Indian Army's progressive development. Gen Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff, made the decision to commission female officers into artillery units public in January. Later, the government agreed to the proposal. 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.

In historic first, women officers commissioned into Indian Army's Regiment of Artillery

Pope Francis for the first time allowed women to cast a vote in the bishops' global meeting to be held in October. This is a historic move which could ensure more inclusiveness in the Roman Catholic Church's decision-making process.&nbsp;

Earlier, the women had permission to attend the synods, which is a papal advisory body, as auditors but did not have any right to vote.&nbsp;

The revolutionary decision, which was announced on Wednesday, will give voting rights to five religious sisters.&nbsp;

The pope additionally decided to include what a Vatican document stated, "70 non-bishop members who represent various groupings of the faithful of the people of God".

The 70 priests, deacons, lay Catholics and religious sisters will be selected by the pope from the list of 140 people who have been recommended by the conferences of the national bishops.&nbsp;

The inclusion of young people was encouraged in the conferences. The Vatican said that 50 per cent of the 70 members should be women. &nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-sex-is-one-of-the-most-beautiful-things-in-a-documentary-579652">Pope says sex is 'one of the most beautiful things' in a documentary</a>

Around 300 people usually attend the synods, so the bulk of people having voting rights will still be the bishops. However, the change has been remarkable for the institution which has been dominated by males for centuries.&nbsp;

The new rules include two major steps which France took last year so that women can be placed in decision-making positions in the Vatican.

In one rule, &nbsp;a landmark reform was introduced by him which will allow any baptised lay Catholic, men or women, to head most departments of the Vatican as per the new constitution for the central administration of the Holy See.&nbsp;

In another rule introduced last year, three women were named by the Pope to a previously all-male committee which gives him advice in selecting bishops around the world.&nbsp;

WATCH | Twitter restores 'blue tick' on Pope Francis' verified Twitter account

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<h2>Women's right to vote&nbsp;</h2>

For years, the women's groups in the Church have been appealing for the right to vote at the synods, which find resolutions that generally lead to a papa document.&nbsp;

A 2018 synod became a point of discussion when two "brothers", who were not ordained, were permitted to vote as superiors general of their religious orders.

However, Sister Sally Marie Hodgdon, who is an American woman who was also not ordained, was not permitted to vote even though she held the position of superior general of her order.

In 2021, for the first time, a woman was named to the number two position in the Vatican City's governorship by Pope Francis, making Sister Raffaella Petrini the highest-ranked woman in the smallest state.

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(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis for the first time allowed women to cast a vote in the bishops' global meeting to be held in October. This is a historic move which could ensure more inclusiveness in the Roman Catholic Church's decision-making process.

Pope Francis for the first time allowed women to cast a vote in the bishops' global meeting to be held in October. This is a historic move which could ensure more inclusiveness in the Roman Catholic Church's decision-making process. Earlier, the women had permission to attend the synods, which is a papal advisory body, as auditors but did not have any right to vote. The revolutionary decision, which was announced on Wednesday, will give voting rights to five religious sisters. The pope additionally decided to include what a Vatican document stated, "70 non-bishop members who represent various groupings of the faithful of the people of God". The 70 priests, deacons, lay Catholics and religious sisters will be selected by the pope from the list of 140 people who have been recommended by the conferences of the national bishops. The inclusion of young people was encouraged in the conferences. The Vatican said that 50 per cent of the 70 members should be women. ALSO READ | Pope says sex is 'one of the most beautiful things' in a documentary Around 300 people usually attend the synods, so the bulk of people having voting rights will still be the bishops. However, the change has been remarkable for the institution which has been dominated by males for centuries. The new rules include two major steps which France took last year so that women can be placed in decision-making positions in the Vatican. In one rule, a landmark reform was introduced by him which will allow any baptised lay Catholic, men or women, to head most departments of the Vatican as per the new constitution for the central administration of the Holy See. In another rule introduced last year, three women were named by the Pope to a previously all-male committee which gives him advice in selecting bishops around the world. WATCH | Twitter restores 'blue tick' on Pope Francis' verified Twitter account Women's right to vote For years, the women's groups in the Church have been appealing for the right to vote at the synods, which find resolutions that generally lead to a papa document. A 2018 synod became a point of discussion when two "brothers", who were not ordained, were permitted to vote as superiors general of their religious orders. However, Sister Sally Marie Hodgdon, who is an American woman who was also not ordained, was not permitted to vote even though she held the position of superior general of her order. In 2021, for the first time, a woman was named to the number two position in the Vatican City's governorship by Pope Francis, making Sister Raffaella Petrini the highest-ranked woman in the smallest state. (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

Pope Francis permits women to vote at meeting of bishops for first time

The French president has promulgated his pension reform into law. The move comes just hours after the court cleared Emmanuel Macron to raise the retirement age. French unions have called for historic strike action.

Macron promulgates his pension reform into law | Changes penalise women and unskilled workers?

With the installation of cameras in public spaces to catch women who violate the law, Iran has taken another step to impose its draconian hijab regulation on women. The move comes as numerous women have stopped wearing the hijab in protest of its imposition.

Iran to install surveillance cameras in public places to nab unveiled women

The growth in the number of female leaders has plateaued around the world, while representation in national parliaments remains static. Watch the video to know more.

After Ardern, Marin and Sturgeon, is female representation in politics going backwards?

French minister and feminist Marlene Schiappa, who recently posed for Playboy, sparking controversy, said to the magazine she believed that women have the right to pose nude if they want to.

Schiappa, who is currently the country's minister for the social economy and associations, was featured in Playboy's French edition this month which will hit shelves on Thursday, although her photos were already leaked in the French media.

On Wednesday, the minister received fresh criticism from her cabinet colleagues for her stunt. In the photographs which will accompany the 12-page long interview, the minister strikes various poses in revealing outfits of&nbsp;blue, red and white colour of the French tricolour.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-minister-faces-flak-for-appearing-on-playboy-cover-amidst-mass-agitation-578414">French minister faces flak for appearing on Playboy cover amidst mass agitation</a>

“If some (women) want to pose in a men’s magazine and enjoy it, I think that we shouldn’t blame them,” said Schiappa, while speaking to the magazine.

The minister called Pamela Anderson her inspiration after the US glamour model said that shooting for Playboy had been “an act of emancipation”.

“Like the Miss France. If they enjoy winning a beauty contest, I find that great too and we should support them,” Schiappa said.

The interview includes various innuendo-laden questions like “is politics an aphrodisiac?”&nbsp;and talks about the minister's past as an erotic novelist and author who wrote on issues like the female orgasm.

Some colleagues of the minister were left aghast by the interview's timing which came when France is going through a major political crisis and battling multiple strikes and violent protests over the increase in the retirement age.

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne had called Schiappa to inform her that the unauthorised shoot was “not at all appropriate”, meanwhile, Equalities Minister Isabelle Rome broke the magazine's cover to criticise the initiative.

WATCH | Gravitas: French minister under fire for posing for playboy magazine

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“I wonder to myself: why would you choose Playboy to try to advance the cause of women when this magazine is a concentration of sexist stereotypes? It’s all about the culture of women as objects,” she said while speaking to the Figaro newspaper.

A former magistrate, Rome said that “when you are a minister, you have responsibilities” as recalled how Playboy’s founder Hugh Hefner had faced accusations of sexual assault.

Schiappa has said that she does not repent attracting the limelight in her six-year political career. “It’s an advantage, on the contrary. Because people say that politics has become colourless, that everyone resembles one another … I don’t resemble anyone else,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French minister and feminist Marlene Schiappa, who recently posed for Playboy, sparking controversy, said to the magazine she believed that women have the right to pose nude if they want to.

French minister and feminist Marlene Schiappa, who recently posed for Playboy, sparking controversy, said to the magazine she believed that women have the right to pose nude if they want to. Schiappa, who is currently the country's minister for the social economy and associations, was featured in Playboy's French edition this month which will hit shelves on Thursday, although her photos were already leaked in the French media. On Wednesday, the minister received fresh criticism from her cabinet colleagues for her stunt. In the photographs which will accompany the 12-page long interview, the minister strikes various poses in revealing outfits of blue, red and white colour of the French tricolour. ALSO READ | French minister faces flak for appearing on Playboy cover amidst mass agitation “If some (women) want to pose in a men’s magazine and enjoy it, I think that we shouldn’t blame them,” said Schiappa, while speaking to the magazine. The minister called Pamela Anderson her inspiration after the US glamour model said that shooting for Playboy had been “an act of emancipation”. “Like the Miss France. If they enjoy winning a beauty contest, I find that great too and we should support them,” Schiappa said. The interview includes various innuendo-laden questions like “is politics an aphrodisiac?” and talks about the minister's past as an erotic novelist and author who wrote on issues like the female orgasm. Some colleagues of the minister were left aghast by the interview's timing which came when France is going through a major political crisis and battling multiple strikes and violent protests over the increase in the retirement age. Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne had called Schiappa to inform her that the unauthorised shoot was “not at all appropriate”, meanwhile, Equalities Minister Isabelle Rome broke the magazine's cover to criticise the initiative. WATCH | Gravitas: French minister under fire for posing for playboy magazine “I wonder to myself: why would you choose Playboy to try to advance the cause of women when this magazine is a concentration of sexist stereotypes? It’s all about the culture of women as objects,” she said while speaking to the Figaro newspaper. A former magistrate, Rome said that “when you are a minister, you have responsibilities” as recalled how Playboy’s founder Hugh Hefner had faced accusations of sexual assault. Schiappa has said that she does not repent attracting the limelight in her six-year political career. “It’s an advantage, on the contrary. Because people say that politics has become colourless, that everyone resembles one another … I don’t resemble anyone else,” she said. (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

Women have right to pose nude, says French minister after Playboy shoot controversy

Researchers in Britain are developing a testosterone hormone patch aimed at helping women combat menopause-related symptoms. If successful, this would be a world first breakthrough that could help women have access to a hormone which is widely available to men.

The patch is being developed to help boost the libido of women with symptoms of menopause, according to news reports.

The testosterone production in women drops drastically post-menopause. This causes issues such as loss of libido, impaired focus, tiredness and headaches.

There are a number of testosterone replacement therapies available to men around the world. But a few that are available to women are in the form of creams and gels, which are tough to dose properly and can rub off on clothing, surfaces and materials.

<h2>Testosterone patches for women: Who is making it?</h2>

The testosterone patches for women are being developed by British company Medherant, founded by David Haddleton, a chemist at England’s University of Warwick.

The company reportedly plans to start clinical trials after testing the patch’s effect on libido in the coming months.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/data-lab-a-wake-up-call-one-woman-dies-every-2-minutes-in-pregnancy-childbirth-un-566606">Data Lab | A wake-up call: One woman dies every 2 minutes in pregnancy, childbirth: UN</a>

If the trials are successful and the patch is approved by regulators, it could be the first and only testosterone replacement patch available to women worldwide.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;'Women of childbearing age shouldn't drink': WHO

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Haddleton said the impact of the patch on women’s wellbeing could be "huge,"&nbsp;adding that they could potentially "remove needless misery from women’s daily lives."

The company has raised $3.7 million (£3 million) to fund its trials testing the patch.

<h2>Testosterone patches for women: Why is it important?</h2>

Women around the world are often prescribed the products approved for men "off-label". The lack of a product with specific formulation for women has often been felt. The product-under-testing reportedly aims to fill this exact gap.

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Researchers in Britain are developing a testosterone hormone patch aimed at helping women combat menopause-related symptoms. If successful, this would be a world first breakthrough that could help women have access to a hormone which is widely available to men.

Researchers in Britain are developing a testosterone hormone patch aimed at helping women combat menopause-related symptoms. If successful, this would be a world first breakthrough that could help women have access to a hormone which is widely available to men. The patch is being developed to help boost the libido of women with symptoms of menopause, according to news reports. The testosterone production in women drops drastically post-menopause. This causes issues such as loss of libido, impaired focus, tiredness and headaches. There are a number of testosterone replacement therapies available to men around the world. But a few that are available to women are in the form of creams and gels, which are tough to dose properly and can rub off on clothing, surfaces and materials. Testosterone patches for women: Who is making it? The testosterone patches for women are being developed by British company Medherant, founded by David Haddleton, a chemist at England’s University of Warwick. The company reportedly plans to start clinical trials after testing the patch’s effect on libido in the coming months. ALSO READ | Data Lab | A wake-up call: One woman dies every 2 minutes in pregnancy, childbirth: UN If the trials are successful and the patch is approved by regulators, it could be the first and only testosterone replacement patch available to women worldwide. ALSO WATCH | 'Women of childbearing age shouldn't drink': WHO × Haddleton said the impact of the patch on women’s wellbeing could be "huge," adding that they could potentially "remove needless misery from women’s daily lives." The company has raised $3.7 million (£3 million) to fund its trials testing the patch. Testosterone patches for women: Why is it important? Women around the world are often prescribed the products approved for men "off-label". The lack of a product with specific formulation for women has often been felt. The product-under-testing reportedly aims to fill this exact gap. 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.

Scientists close to developing testosterone patches to help women combat menopause-related issues

Sofia logs in to class on a laptop in Kabul for an online English course run by one of a growing number of educational institutes trying to reach Afghanistan's girls and women digitally in their homes. Watch the video to know more.

Afghan girls struggle with poor internet as they turn to online classes

Women will soon be granted permission to swim topless in public pools in Berlin in accordance with a ruling of the city's authorities.

The step has been taken after a woman took legal action after being thrown out of an open-air pool because of sunbathing topless.

The complainant, whose identity was not revealed by the authorities, reached the senate’s ombudsperson’s office where she demanded equal treatment and argued that women must be allowed to go topless if they choose to do so.

The authorities accepted that the victims have faced discrimination and said that all visitors to the pools of Berlin are now free to go topless, irrespective of their gender.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-decides-to-not-excavate-remains-of-soldiers-who-died-during-wwi-report-561221">Germany decides to not excavate remains of soldiers who died during WWI: Report</a>

As a result of the complaint, the Berliner Baederbetriebe, which has been running the public pools of Berlin, made changes in its clothing rules accordingly.

“The ombudsperson’s office very much welcomes the decision of the Baederbetriebe, because it establishes equal rights for all Berliners, whether male, female or non-binary, and because it also creates legal certainty for the staff at the Baederbetriebe,“ Doris Liebscher, the head of the ombudsperson's office, said

“Now it is important that the regulation is applied consistently and that no more expulsions or house bans are issued,” Liebscher added.

The outcome is likely to be received as a piece of good news by those who follow Germany’s freikörperkultur, or “free body culture”.

In 2022, various cities of the country brought the concept of topless swimming in public pools, including Gottingen in Lower Saxony and Siegen in North Rhine-Westphalia.

WATCH | World leaders gather in Germany for Munich Security Conference

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The bathing regulations were also changed in the Lower Saxony state capital of Hanover at the end of 2022, which that stated only “primary sex organs” have to be covered “in the wet area” of municipal baths.

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Women will soon be granted permission to swim topless in public pools in Berlin in accordance with a ruling of the city's authorities. The step has been taken after a woman took legal action after being thrown out of an open-air pool because of sunbathing topless.

Women will soon be granted permission to swim topless in public pools in Berlin in accordance with a ruling of the city's authorities. The step has been taken after a woman took legal action after being thrown out of an open-air pool because of sunbathing topless. The complainant, whose identity was not revealed by the authorities, reached the senate’s ombudsperson’s office where she demanded equal treatment and argued that women must be allowed to go topless if they choose to do so. The authorities accepted that the victims have faced discrimination and said that all visitors to the pools of Berlin are now free to go topless, irrespective of their gender. ALSO READ | Germany decides to not excavate remains of soldiers who died during WWI: Report As a result of the complaint, the Berliner Baederbetriebe, which has been running the public pools of Berlin, made changes in its clothing rules accordingly. “The ombudsperson’s office very much welcomes the decision of the Baederbetriebe, because it establishes equal rights for all Berliners, whether male, female or non-binary, and because it also creates legal certainty for the staff at the Baederbetriebe,“ Doris Liebscher, the head of the ombudsperson's office, said “Now it is important that the regulation is applied consistently and that no more expulsions or house bans are issued,” Liebscher added. The outcome is likely to be received as a piece of good news by those who follow Germany’s freikörperkultur, or “free body culture”. In 2022, various cities of the country brought the concept of topless swimming in public pools, including Gottingen in Lower Saxony and Siegen in North Rhine-Westphalia. WATCH | World leaders gather in Germany for Munich Security Conference The bathing regulations were also changed in the Lower Saxony state capital of Hanover at the end of 2022, which that stated only “primary sex organs” have to be covered “in the wet area” of municipal baths. 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

Berlin to permit women to swim topless in public pools

"The great question that has never been answered, and which I have not yet been able to answer, despite my 30 years of research into the feminine soul&nbsp;is, 'What does a woman want?' " Sigmund Freud had once famously said in his letter to Princess Marie Bonaparte.&nbsp;

The question still remains unanswered and debated and somewhere lost in the hubbub of gender discussions. However elusive the nature of the question may appear, the answer was never as incomprehensible as it appeared to the world. Open the hidden nods of your day-to-day life, and you may find the answers there – the anger, discomfort, hopelessness and failed expectations expressed in the words and gestures of women around us.&nbsp;

It is difficult to list out the 10 major things that women want in a world where they lack respect, space, independence, freedom of thought, expression and ideation.&nbsp;

However, here's a 10-point guideline for all men to understand what women really want (apart from the basics).&nbsp;

1. Mr Know It All

One of the greatest myths in this world is that men know it all – from understanding sports to discussing politics, managing finance, planning trips, and even changing car tyres. It is high time that society understands and remembers that women also keep a good knowledge of these things and perhaps at times, better knowledge!

2. Sharing the burden

In today's world, it is common for women to have career aspirations as well as family and children to take care of. When a woman gives birth to a child, taking care of the infant 24 hours a day does not become her sole responsibility. The burden needs to be shared by men and women must not be compelled or put under unsaid pressure to take career breaks.

3. Setting the right narrative

It has become a common practice to appreciate men for similar things women are looked down upon for. A man working till late would be called someone "providing for his family" whereas a woman will be termed a "workaholic". A man dropping a child at daycare is considered "helpful", but if a woman does the same, it is considered her job.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-how-women-emerged-as-writers-in-19th-century-colonial-india-569870">Explained | How women emerged as writers in 19th century colonial India</a>

4. Women "have" sexual needs

Women are judged if they openly talk about their sexual needs or their sexual preferences even in their closed groups. It is imperative to talk about women's sexual needs and understand them. This will be the baby step towards women's sexual liberation.

5. Compliments that no one wants

It has become a norm to give compliments like – 'Beauty with brains', 'You haven't aged at all', 'You are pretty for a dark-skinned girl', and 'You are a good driver, for a girl'. Well, it may seem like a compliment to a man, but for a woman, it is disrespectful and insulting remarks hidden in disguise.

6. Why an all-boys club at the C-suite level?

Representation matters. Having an all-boys club at C-suite levels indicates a lack of representation in the company. In the workplace, blatant sexism by not giving equal opportunities to married women exists. Interestingly, a man’s marital status has zero effects on his job prospects.

7. No health insurance to cover women's reproductive healthcare?

There is a need to provide health insurance that covers reproductive healthcare for women and not just cold and flu. Interestingly, lot of insurance companies still do not consider reproductive healthcare as necessary to be ‘covered’ under their regular plans which directly denies women of their basic rights.

WATCH | Gravitas: UN chief warns gender equality still 300 years away

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8. No sexist humour at work

Google "sexist casual jokes at the workplace" and you will find articles that tell women how to respond to or deal with sexist jokes or remarks at the workplace. This is how prevalent the situation has been. Sexist remarks and wife jokes are definitely not what women want in the workplace.

9. Being a woman is not a disability. They don't need crutches.

Men believe that it is their birthright to protect women, spend on them and keep a watch on them. Women are strong enough to take care of themselves. Their independence and space should be respected and men should stop acting like crutches.

10. Stop celebrating Women's Day

Women – the birth giver, the housemaker, the workplace leaders – need to be serenaded all through the year. A single day in a year just won't suffice!

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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"The great question that has never been answered, and which I have not yet been able to answer, despite my 30 years of research into the feminine soul is, 'What does a woman want?

"The great question that has never been answered, and which I have not yet been able to answer, despite my 30 years of research into the feminine soul is, 'What does a woman want?' " Sigmund Freud had once famously said in his letter to Princess Marie Bonaparte. The question still remains unanswered and debated and somewhere lost in the hubbub of gender discussions. However elusive the nature of the question may appear, the answer was never as incomprehensible as it appeared to the world. Open the hidden nods of your day-to-day life, and you may find the answers there – the anger, discomfort, hopelessness and failed expectations expressed in the words and gestures of women around us. It is difficult to list out the 10 major things that women want in a world where they lack respect, space, independence, freedom of thought, expression and ideation. However, here's a 10-point guideline for all men to understand what women really want (apart from the basics). 1. Mr Know It All One of the greatest myths in this world is that men know it all – from understanding sports to discussing politics, managing finance, planning trips, and even changing car tyres. It is high time that society understands and remembers that women also keep a good knowledge of these things and perhaps at times, better knowledge! 2. Sharing the burden In today's world, it is common for women to have career aspirations as well as family and children to take care of. When a woman gives birth to a child, taking care of the infant 24 hours a day does not become her sole responsibility. The burden needs to be shared by men and women must not be compelled or put under unsaid pressure to take career breaks. 3. Setting the right narrative It has become a common practice to appreciate men for similar things women are looked down upon for. A man working till late would be called someone "providing for his family" whereas a woman will be termed a "workaholic". A man dropping a child at daycare is considered "helpful", but if a woman does the same, it is considered her job. ALSO READ | Explained | How women emerged as writers in 19th century colonial India 4. Women "have" sexual needs Women are judged if they openly talk about their sexual needs or their sexual preferences even in their closed groups. It is imperative to talk about women's sexual needs and understand them. This will be the baby step towards women's sexual liberation. 5. Compliments that no one wants It has become a norm to give compliments like – 'Beauty with brains', 'You haven't aged at all', 'You are pretty for a dark-skinned girl', and 'You are a good driver, for a girl'. Well, it may seem like a compliment to a man, but for a woman, it is disrespectful and insulting remarks hidden in disguise. 6. Why an all-boys club at the C-suite level? Representation matters. Having an all-boys club at C-suite levels indicates a lack of representation in the company. In the workplace, blatant sexism by not giving equal opportunities to married women exists. Interestingly, a man’s marital status has zero effects on his job prospects. 7. No health insurance to cover women's reproductive healthcare? There is a need to provide health insurance that covers reproductive healthcare for women and not just cold and flu. Interestingly, lot of insurance companies still do not consider reproductive healthcare as necessary to be ‘covered’ under their regular plans which directly denies women of their basic rights. WATCH | Gravitas: UN chief warns gender equality still 300 years away 8. No sexist humour at work Google "sexist casual jokes at the workplace" and you will find articles that tell women how to respond to or deal with sexist jokes or remarks at the workplace. This is how prevalent the situation has been. Sexist remarks and wife jokes are definitely not what women want in the workplace. 9. Being a woman is not a disability. They don't need crutches. Men believe that it is their birthright to protect women, spend on them and keep a watch on them. Women are strong enough to take care of themselves. Their independence and space should be respected and men should stop acting like crutches. 10. Stop celebrating Women's Day Women – the birth giver, the housemaker, the workplace leaders – need to be serenaded all through the year. A single day in a year just won't suffice! (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 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

What do women want? A 10-point guide for all men out there

Every morning, after dropping her children along with a few other kids from her village to school in Dhannipatti in the north Indian city of Mirzapur, Pragya Devi heads to the main market area to start the 'morning route' of her e-rickshaw business. She usually charges 15 rupees for one drop-off per person if the distance is within three kilometres.

If business is good in the first half of the day, she instantly buys vegetables for the family. Her passion for automobiles is what describes her the best. While this passion for women in her community is rare, it is revolutionary to see a married woman clad in a traditional Indian sari and a vermilion mark on her head riding an e-rickshaw, transporting men, women and children around the male-dominated locales of Mirzapur.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-hekani-jakhalu-nagalands-first-ever-woman-mla-creates-history-in-northeast-elections-2023-567603">Who is Hekani Jakhalu? Nagaland's first-ever woman MLA creates history in Northeast Elections 2023</a>

From women being astonished when they first see her to women feeling proud of her - Pragya Devi has observed her community come to terms with this 'shock' in their environment. During one round of her e-rickshaw, a young girl, who is currently a nurse, wondered, “If she can do it, we can do it”. Pragya Devi carries the message of women's empowerment with her wherever she goes, creating a positive domino effect.

Thousands of women like Pragya Devi are today waiting for someone to help them bridge the gap between dreams and reality, even if the help is just a small amount like Rs 40,000 ($489). This is the magic wand that Rang De's founder Smita Ram and with her husband Ram NK are carrying, to empower women from these rural belts of India to rise and shine.

Rang De – an attempt at last mile financial inclusion "women"

For the burgeoning women entrepreneurs in rural areas and courageously taking a step ahead to work for themselves and their families, Rang De has emerged as a blessing, a helping hand from one woman to another.

Established in 2008, Rang De is the first social peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform in India, which is providing low-cost and affordable credit to unbanked communities.

The platform provides individuals with the opportunity to turn themselves into social investors&nbsp;by lending small amounts of money to those who have never borrowed from any bank or are financially excluded. This is done at a small interest rate and Rang De further encourages these social investors to reinvest the repayments received, thus creating an infinite loop of impact.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: UN chief warns gender equality still 300 years away

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Speaking about the mission of Rang De Smita Ram told WION, "What we aim to address through Rang De is to enable underbanked communities to get access to affordable credit, and also bridge the empathy gap between urban and rural India."

With 80 per cent of investees being rural women, this novel idea is helping the women of developing India break the clutches of poverty and prosper. Taking pride in lending support to such women, Smita Ram said, "We are already seeing women making great strides when it comes to building enterprises and becoming self-reliant. You invest in a woman and you will see an entire community develop".

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Every morning, after dropping her children along with a few other kids from her village to school in Dhannipatti in the north Indian city of Mirzapur, Pragya Devi heads to the main market area to start the 'morning route' of her e-rickshaw business.

Every morning, after dropping her children along with a few other kids from her village to school in Dhannipatti in the north Indian city of Mirzapur, Pragya Devi heads to the main market area to start the 'morning route' of her e-rickshaw business. She usually charges 15 rupees for one drop-off per person if the distance is within three kilometres. If business is good in the first half of the day, she instantly buys vegetables for the family. Her passion for automobiles is what describes her the best. While this passion for women in her community is rare, it is revolutionary to see a married woman clad in a traditional Indian sari and a vermilion mark on her head riding an e-rickshaw, transporting men, women and children around the male-dominated locales of Mirzapur. ALSO READ | Who is Hekani Jakhalu? Nagaland's first-ever woman MLA creates history in Northeast Elections 2023 From women being astonished when they first see her to women feeling proud of her - Pragya Devi has observed her community come to terms with this 'shock' in their environment. During one round of her e-rickshaw, a young girl, who is currently a nurse, wondered, “If she can do it, we can do it”. Pragya Devi carries the message of women's empowerment with her wherever she goes, creating a positive domino effect. Thousands of women like Pragya Devi are today waiting for someone to help them bridge the gap between dreams and reality, even if the help is just a small amount like Rs 40,000 ($489). This is the magic wand that Rang De's founder Smita Ram and with her husband Ram NK are carrying, to empower women from these rural belts of India to rise and shine. Rang De – an attempt at last mile financial inclusion "women" For the burgeoning women entrepreneurs in rural areas and courageously taking a step ahead to work for themselves and their families, Rang De has emerged as a blessing, a helping hand from one woman to another. Established in 2008, Rang De is the first social peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform in India, which is providing low-cost and affordable credit to unbanked communities. The platform provides individuals with the opportunity to turn themselves into social investors by lending small amounts of money to those who have never borrowed from any bank or are financially excluded. This is done at a small interest rate and Rang De further encourages these social investors to reinvest the repayments received, thus creating an infinite loop of impact. WATCH | Gravitas: UN chief warns gender equality still 300 years away Speaking about the mission of Rang De Smita Ram told WION, "What we aim to address through Rang De is to enable underbanked communities to get access to affordable credit, and also bridge the empathy gap between urban and rural India." With 80 per cent of investees being rural women, this novel idea is helping the women of developing India break the clutches of poverty and prosper. Taking pride in lending support to such women, Smita Ram said, "We are already seeing women making great strides when it comes to building enterprises and becoming self-reliant. You invest in a woman and you will see an entire community develop". 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

From dreams to reality - How Rang De's micro-credit drive is transforming women to entrepreneurs

Thousands of women, dressed in red, formed human chains on Wednesday to protest against the planned judicial overhaul of the right-wing Israeli government that would strictly limit the powers of the judiciary.&nbsp;

Several sectyions of Israeli society have joined the weekly protests against the plans of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to limit the ability of Supreme Court to rule against the executive and the legislature, while giving decisive powers to lawmakers in appointment of judges.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-palestinians-killed-during-israel-military-raid-in-west-bank-569806">Six Palestinians killed during Israel military raid in West Bank</a>

Marking the International Women's Day, the women joined the protests at the popular Tel Aviv beach-front promenade, while clapping and chanting "democracy".&nbsp;

&nbsp;"It's supposed to be a happy day that we celebrate our rights but now we need to protest again," said Moran Katzenstein at a demonstration in Jerusalem. "We all wear red and we show that we are drawing a red line and we will not allow this government to harm our rights,” she added.&nbsp;

The protesters waved signs reading "harming women's rights, not on our shift" and "women's struggle," as they demonstrated against the legislation, which was proposed by Netanyahu with his religious allies and right-wing groups last month.&nbsp;

On Monday, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that a compromise in the judicial overhual plan of the government could be imminent, however, opposition leader Benny Gantz said that no negotiations will take place till the legislation is halted.

WATCH | Israel president says judicial compromise 'closer' as protests escalate

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"Agreements can be reached, compromise on democracy we cannot reach," Gantz stated. Women dressed in red stood in a line at the famous Tel Aviv beach-front promenade, while they clapped and chanted "democracy."&nbsp;

"We feel that every step of this reform is going to hurt women and take women's rights back," Adi Agasi-Shafir said. "We are going to be deprived of all the rights and achievements that we managed to get so far, it's really dangerous and we're not willing to accept that," Agasi-Shafir added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thousands of women, dressed in red, formed human chains on Wednesday to protest against the planned judicial overhaul of the right-wing Israeli government that would strictly limit the powers of the judiciary.

Thousands of women, dressed in red, formed human chains on Wednesday to protest against the planned judicial overhaul of the right-wing Israeli government that would strictly limit the powers of the judiciary. Several sectyions of Israeli society have joined the weekly protests against the plans of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to limit the ability of Supreme Court to rule against the executive and the legislature, while giving decisive powers to lawmakers in appointment of judges. ALSO READ | Six Palestinians killed during Israel military raid in West Bank Marking the International Women's Day, the women joined the protests at the popular Tel Aviv beach-front promenade, while clapping and chanting "democracy". "It's supposed to be a happy day that we celebrate our rights but now we need to protest again," said Moran Katzenstein at a demonstration in Jerusalem. "We all wear red and we show that we are drawing a red line and we will not allow this government to harm our rights,” she added. The protesters waved signs reading "harming women's rights, not on our shift" and "women's struggle," as they demonstrated against the legislation, which was proposed by Netanyahu with his religious allies and right-wing groups last month. On Monday, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that a compromise in the judicial overhual plan of the government could be imminent, however, opposition leader Benny Gantz said that no negotiations will take place till the legislation is halted. WATCH | Israel president says judicial compromise 'closer' as protests escalate "Agreements can be reached, compromise on democracy we cannot reach," Gantz stated. Women dressed in red stood in a line at the famous Tel Aviv beach-front promenade, while they clapped and chanted "democracy." "We feel that every step of this reform is going to hurt women and take women's rights back," Adi Agasi-Shafir said. "We are going to be deprived of all the rights and achievements that we managed to get so far, it's really dangerous and we're not willing to accept that," Agasi-Shafir added. (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

Women dressed in red form human chains to protest judicial overhaul in Israel

It was February 23, 1821, when one of the greatest Romantic poets of English literature, John Keats, lying in a small room amid the mild winters of Rome, finally embraced death at the age of 25, ending his suffering from tuberculosis. After more than 50 years, the world lost another "Keats" to the same illness in a faraway land, but this time she was just a little more than 21 years old. Toru Dutt, who is often called the Keats of Indo-English literature, emerged as the first woman who broke through the fetters of colonial Indian society and became a poetess. This was the first attempt by a woman to pick up her pen and add to the flowing stream of literature.

<img alt="Toru Dutt" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f15db85-aee2-4906-b8a7-ce2bcabeace0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-03-08T124750.521_0.png" />

A new habit: How did Indian women indulge in novels in the 19th century?

Formal education was a privilege denied to women of all castes in 19th century colonial India. Women belonging to upper castes enjoyed the liberty to study classical literature and religious texts. Generally though, women were trained in household chores like cooking, and sewing and were married by the time they reached the age of 12.

Stealing some time from the day to escape the monotony of domestic chores, the women in the eastern state of Bengal indulged themselves in popular performing arts like medieval poetry's oral recitations, theatrical performances and musicals while also participating in the collective reading sessions where they discussed religious text.

In the middle of the 19th century, the educated middle class along with the elite and ruling English class expressed their apprehensions over these popular performing arts badly impacting the morals and minds of women. The women were considered morally vulnerable, mentally weak and likely to fall into trap of corrupt influences as men took it as their duty to regulate and control the way they spend their leisure time.&nbsp;

<img alt="writers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="256cee90-e3c4-4f42-99bd-2dc004e2678d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-03-08T124944.954_0.png" />

Yet slowly, women moved away from participating in popular traditions and started indulging themselves in novels and finding their solace in reading a long fictional narrative. The novels, in all their forms, shot to enormous popularity in the Bengali milieu. Novels didn't remain restricted to literate women only, as they could be read out even to illiterate ladies seeking a break from their household chores.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-roald-dahls-french-publisher-will-not-rewrite-british-authors-translated-books-564647">Roald Dahl's French publisher will not rewrite British author's translated books</a>

How did women writers and poets emerge from households?

Most of the novels being read by women in the 19th century were declared taboo and the society's intelligentsia expressed its anxiety over the reading habits of women, accusing them of becoming averse to household chores, being indolent, sexually deviant, suicidal and morally corrupt.

The women were asked to stop misusing their education by reading novels and instead only devote time to reading religious books.

Writer Maroona Murmu, in an article titled ‘Kahake: Swarna Debi’s Literary Resistance?’ writes, “Complaints were raised about the novel’s tendency to corrupt the moral sensibilities of tender minds, causing mental stultification, making women neglectful of housework, defiant and shameless. It was alleged that the identification with and imitation of the central characters in novels encouraged immoral habits and transgressive desires. The fear of ‘novel-reading women’s sexuality’ led to greater surveillance over woman’s reading habits."

<img alt="book" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70dbc7fe-3f27-4ee9-a70f-998f76fbb2cc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-03-08T132344.800_0.png" />

However, these diktats issued by the patriarchal society fell flat as women continued reading novels, and some of them went ahead and picked up their pens to narrate to the world the stories they have lived and longed for.

WATCH | Author Salman Rushdie attacked, currently on ventilator

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Ladies who made the 19th century the 'age of women'

Among the pioneers who broke the fetters of societal bindings and used their pens to challenge the patriarchal society and its conservative norms were Toru Dutt, Begum Rokeya Hossain, Swarnakumari Devi, Pandita Ramabai, Krupabai Satthianadhan and Rassundari Devi.

Toru Dutt, who succumbed to tuberculosis in 1877 when she was just 21 after losing her siblings to the same disease, is considered the first Indian poetess who wrote in French and English. "A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields", which was published in 1876, is considered her best work.

<img alt="dutt" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="80e7bc81-93dd-4a0d-bd11-9f3706ee0e48" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-03-08T124851.231_0.png" />

Rassundari Devi's autobiography Amar Jiban, which was published in 1876, became the first autobiography ever written by an Indian woman. A mother of 12 children, Devi fulfilled her aspiration to become literate by teaching herself during her free time from daily chores.

Rabindranath Tagore's sister Swarnakumari Devi was among Bengal's first women writers to gain prominence. Her debut novel Deepnirban, which was published in 1876, ignited the national spirit among people.

Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, who was born in a well-to-do family where she received encouragement to study English and Bengali, wrote stories which talked about the importance of educating women. Her novel “Sultana’s Dream” is still widely read and celebrated as the finest example of feminist science fiction which sketches a world for its readers where everything is run by women and men remain secluded.

<img alt="bk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8de4587b-53f1-40ef-9e9f-c1fc12710492" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ds2kqEjWoAIYwQD.jpg" />

These women not only challenged the stereotypes but inspired others to break their barriers and gain an education. These writers made the 19th century the 'age of women', unmasking their feelings, emotions, disappointments, longings, pleasures, priorities and literary tastes which remained veiled for a long time. In the 19th century's second half, more than 300 books were written by women authors in Bengal and were listed officially across different categories, with poetry emerging as the most favourite.

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

It was February 23, 1821, when one of the greatest Romantic poets of English literature, John Keats, lying in a small room amid the mild winters of Rome, finally embraced death at the age of 25, ending his suffering from tuberculosis.

It was February 23, 1821, when one of the greatest Romantic poets of English literature, John Keats, lying in a small room amid the mild winters of Rome, finally embraced death at the age of 25, ending his suffering from tuberculosis. After more than 50 years, the world lost another "Keats" to the same illness in a faraway land, but this time she was just a little more than 21 years old. Toru Dutt, who is often called the Keats of Indo-English literature, emerged as the first woman who broke through the fetters of colonial Indian society and became a poetess. This was the first attempt by a woman to pick up her pen and add to the flowing stream of literature. A new habit: How did Indian women indulge in novels in the 19th century? Formal education was a privilege denied to women of all castes in 19th century colonial India. Women belonging to upper castes enjoyed the liberty to study classical literature and religious texts. Generally though, women were trained in household chores like cooking, and sewing and were married by the time they reached the age of 12. Stealing some time from the day to escape the monotony of domestic chores, the women in the eastern state of Bengal indulged themselves in popular performing arts like medieval poetry's oral recitations, theatrical performances and musicals while also participating in the collective reading sessions where they discussed religious text. In the middle of the 19th century, the educated middle class along with the elite and ruling English class expressed their apprehensions over these popular performing arts badly impacting the morals and minds of women. The women were considered morally vulnerable, mentally weak and likely to fall into trap of corrupt influences as men took it as their duty to regulate and control the way they spend their leisure time. Yet slowly, women moved away from participating in popular traditions and started indulging themselves in novels and finding their solace in reading a long fictional narrative. The novels, in all their forms, shot to enormous popularity in the Bengali milieu. Novels didn't remain restricted to literate women only, as they could be read out even to illiterate ladies seeking a break from their household chores. ALSO READ | Roald Dahl's French publisher will not rewrite British author's translated books How did women writers and poets emerge from households? Most of the novels being read by women in the 19th century were declared taboo and the society's intelligentsia expressed its anxiety over the reading habits of women, accusing them of becoming averse to household chores, being indolent, sexually deviant, suicidal and morally corrupt. The women were asked to stop misusing their education by reading novels and instead only devote time to reading religious books. Writer Maroona Murmu, in an article titled ‘Kahake: Swarna Debi’s Literary Resistance?’ writes, “Complaints were raised about the novel’s tendency to corrupt the moral sensibilities of tender minds, causing mental stultification, making women neglectful of housework, defiant and shameless. It was alleged that the identification with and imitation of the central characters in novels encouraged immoral habits and transgressive desires. The fear of ‘novel-reading women’s sexuality’ led to greater surveillance over woman’s reading habits." However, these diktats issued by the patriarchal society fell flat as women continued reading novels, and some of them went ahead and picked up their pens to narrate to the world the stories they have lived and longed for. WATCH | Author Salman Rushdie attacked, currently on ventilator Ladies who made the 19th century the 'age of women' Among the pioneers who broke the fetters of societal bindings and used their pens to challenge the patriarchal society and its conservative norms were Toru Dutt, Begum Rokeya Hossain, Swarnakumari Devi, Pandita Ramabai, Krupabai Satthianadhan and Rassundari Devi. Toru Dutt, who succumbed to tuberculosis in 1877 when she was just 21 after losing her siblings to the same disease, is considered the first Indian poetess who wrote in French and English. "A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields", which was published in 1876, is considered her best work. Rassundari Devi's autobiography Amar Jiban, which was published in 1876, became the first autobiography ever written by an Indian woman. A mother of 12 children, Devi fulfilled her aspiration to become literate by teaching herself during her free time from daily chores. Rabindranath Tagore's sister Swarnakumari Devi was among Bengal's first women writers to gain prominence. Her debut novel Deepnirban, which was published in 1876, ignited the national spirit among people. Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, who was born in a well-to-do family where she received encouragement to study English and Bengali, wrote stories which talked about the importance of educating women. Her novel “Sultana’s Dream” is still widely read and celebrated as the finest example of feminist science fiction which sketches a world for its readers where everything is run by women and men remain secluded. These women not only challenged the stereotypes but inspired others to break their barriers and gain an education. These writers made the 19th century the 'age of women', unmasking their feelings, emotions, disappointments, longings, pleasures, priorities and literary tastes which remained veiled for a long time. In the 19th century's second half, more than 300 books were written by women authors in Bengal and were listed officially across different categories, with poetry emerging as the most favourite. 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

Explained | How women emerged as writers in 19th century colonial India

In a small village circled by velvety white snow-topped mountains in Afghanistan’s Bamiyan province, Aziza Rahimi mourns the baby son she lost last year after a harrowing birth with no medical care. Watch the video to know more.

Young Afghan women train to become midwives

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan continues to mistreat women, and now hundreds of them risk prosecution for adultery after the government deemed their divorces invalid, which also renders their second marriage illegitimate. The announcement, which comes after the regime deprived Afghan women of their work and educational opportunities, is yet another blow to their rights.

After education and employment, Taliban target private life

A comprehensive gender mapping has revealed that it is a male-dominated landscape at some of the biggest multilateral organizations across the world and women in leadership positions are being sidelined.&nbsp;

The report was prepared by GWL Voices for Change and Inclusion. It is an advocacy group with 62 current and former senior women leaders at the helm of it.&nbsp;

The mapping of the number of women leaders in 33 of the world’s largest multilateral organizations reveals that since 1945, these organizations have collectively had a total of 382 leaders.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indigo-in-talks-with-boeing-for-largest-jet-purchase-airbus-to-get-a-tough-fight-569124">Indian airline Indigo in talks with Boeing for largest-ever jet order, Airbus to get a tough fight</a>

Out of 382 leaders, 335 were men and only 47 were women, which means, that in all, women have been in charge for only 12% of the time since 1945.

The study pointed out that despite recent progress, only one-third of these organizations are currently headed by a woman.

Out of these 33 organisations, 13 including all four of the world’s largest development banks have never elected a woman as their leader. Moreover, 5 of these organisations have elected a female president only once in their entire history.

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The data shows that women’s representation is slightly better at the organizations in charge of areas such as children, food, population and health.&nbsp;

However, the report clarifies that looking at the institutions that have only been run by men, one should not think the world lacks female professionals with outstanding careers in fields such as politics, finance, and international development amoung others.&nbsp;

In fact, the report said that those fields are full of female professionals more than qualified to fill leadership positions. The data for this report was gathered during January and February of 2023.&nbsp;

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GWL Voices will publish a more extensive version of this report in the second half of 2023. It will include data on the gender composition of the senior management teams and the governing bodies of each of the 33 organizations.

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A comprehensive gender mapping has revealed that it is a male-dominated landscape at some of the biggest multilateral organizations across the world and women in leadership positions are being sidelined.

A comprehensive gender mapping has revealed that it is a male-dominated landscape at some of the biggest multilateral organizations across the world and women in leadership positions are being sidelined. The report was prepared by GWL Voices for Change and Inclusion. It is an advocacy group with 62 current and former senior women leaders at the helm of it. The mapping of the number of women leaders in 33 of the world’s largest multilateral organizations reveals that since 1945, these organizations have collectively had a total of 382 leaders. Also Read | Indian airline Indigo in talks with Boeing for largest-ever jet order, Airbus to get a tough fight Out of 382 leaders, 335 were men and only 47 were women, which means, that in all, women have been in charge for only 12% of the time since 1945. The study pointed out that despite recent progress, only one-third of these organizations are currently headed by a woman. Out of these 33 organisations, 13 including all four of the world’s largest development banks have never elected a woman as their leader. Moreover, 5 of these organisations have elected a female president only once in their entire history. Also Read | World’s first openly transgender MP, Georgina Beyer, dies in New Zealand at 65 The data shows that women’s representation is slightly better at the organizations in charge of areas such as children, food, population and health. However, the report clarifies that looking at the institutions that have only been run by men, one should not think the world lacks female professionals with outstanding careers in fields such as politics, finance, and international development amoung others. In fact, the report said that those fields are full of female professionals more than qualified to fill leadership positions. The data for this report was gathered during January and February of 2023. Watch | Elite Israeli defence pilots protest judicial reforms by boycotting reserve duty, training GWL Voices will publish a more extensive version of this report in the second half of 2023. It will include data on the gender composition of the senior management teams and the governing bodies of each of the 33 organizations. 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.

Male-dominated landscape prevalent at multilateral organisations, reveals study

As protests continue in Iran over suspected poison attacks on schoolgirls, Iran's Judiciary on Monday said that women violating the Islamic dress code will be punished. The further clampdown on women's rights in Iran comes less than a year after Mahsa Amini's death. Meanwhile, at least 15 people were killed and dozens were injured in a massive landslide triggered by incessant rains in Serasan Island, in Riau Islands Province, Indonesia. &nbsp;

Amoung other news,&nbsp;the drama continued in Pakistan over Imran Khan a day after he dodged his arrest. Islamabad court rejected a plea filed by the former prime minister where he sought suspension of a non-bailable warrant issued against him in the Toshakhana case.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-women-to-be-punished-for-violating-islamic-dress-code-says-judiciary-569190">Iran: Women to be punished for violating Islamic dress code, says judiciary chief</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/02/322655-mahsa-amini.png?imwidth=1920" />

Iran's Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said on Monday (March 6) that women violating the Islamic dress code will be punished, reported Iran's official IRNA news agency. The report has come less than a year after Mahsa Amini's death.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/landslide-strikes-indonesia-at-least-15-killed-50-feared-missing-569262">Landslide strikes Indonesia, at least 15 killed, 50 feared missing &nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/337068-land.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

At least 15 people were killed and more than dozens injured after a landslide caused by incessant rains struck Serasan Island, Riau Islands Province—one of the outermost islands in Indonesia. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-court-rejects-pak-ex-pm-imran-khans-plea-to-suspend-arrest-warrant-in-toshakhana-case-569132">Islamabad court rejects Pak ex-PM Imran Khan's plea to suspend arrest warrant in Toshakhana case</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/337012-khan.png?imwidth=1920" />

A court in Pakistan's capital Islamabad has rejected a plea filed by former prime minister Imran Khan seeking suspension of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-defence-minister-sergei-shoigu-visits-mariupol-in-ukraine-569159">Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visits Mariupol in Ukraine</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/337028-sergei-shoigu.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Russian Defence Ministry said on Monday (March 6) that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has visited Mariuopol, a city in southern Ukraine. His visit has come about a year after Russian forces besieged the city, levelling it to the ground.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-will-soon-allow-users-to-post-tweets-with-10000-characters-says-elon-musk-569196">Twitter will ‘soon’ allow users to post tweets with 10,000 characters, says Elon Musk</a>

 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/337051-wion-images-91.png?imwidth=1920" />

Twitter chief Elon Musk, on early Sunday (March 6) confirmed that users on the microblogging platform can send “longform tweets” with up to 10,000 characters. While responding to a user’s question, Musk also said that the feature would be rolled out “soon” without giving any specific timeline.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-cease-to-exist-warns-pm-fumio-kishida-aide-as-birthrate-plummets-to-record-levels-569234">Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290103-untitled-design-2022-08-24t142706248.png?imwidth=1920" /> 
 
Japan may disappear if the current trend of falling birth rate continues, warned Masako Mori, an upper house lawmaker and former minister who advises Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on the falling birthrate problem.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-defence-minister-warns-china-may-make-sudden-entry-569220">Taiwan’s defence minister warns China may make ‘sudden entry’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/337052-taiwan.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Taiwan’s Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng on Monday said that the country should prepare itself for a “sudden entry” of the Chinese military into its air and sea space, and pressed for increased military exchanges with the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-bgt-202223-steve-smith-set-to-lead-in-final-test-in-pat-cumminss-absence-569184">India vs Australia, BGT 2022/23: Steve Smith set to lead in final Test in Pat Cummins' absence</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/337039-india-vs-aus-bgt-2022-23-smith-set-to-lead-in-final-test-in-cummins-absence.jpg?imwidth=1920" />Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the fourth and final Test versus India as well, with regular skipper Pat Cummins to remain in Australia with his ailing mother. The Aussie speedster's mother Maria is ill with breast cancer and is in palliative care, as reported by Cricket Australia.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/1-dead-8-injured-in-stampede-at-glorilla-concert-in-new-york-569228">1 dead, 8 injured in stampede at GloRilla concert in New York</a> 
&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/337055-untitled-design-2023-03-06t191703637.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Rapper GloRilla, a Memphis native, was performing at the Rochester Main Street Armory, New York on Sunday when false fears of a shooting caused a stampede, killing one person and injuring eight others, according to Rochester police Lt. Nicholas Adams.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/you-season-4-part-ii-release-date-when-how-to-watch-you-season-4-part-ii-check-release-date-on-netflix-569224">YOU Season 4, Part II Release Date: When &amp; How to Watch YOU Season 4, Part II, Check release date on Netflix</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/06/337053-you-season-4.png?imwidth=1920" />Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) has returned with a new identity, a new love interest and a new serial murderer to confront. Joe's aspirations for a fresh life in the UK were dashed when he found himself in the sights of the 'Eat The Rich' killer, who was eager to become best friends with him after fleeing the California carnage of season three. What does Joe intend to do now that he knows who they are?&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

As protests continue in Iran over suspected poison attacks on schoolgirls, Iran's Judiciary on Monday said that women violating the Islamic dress code will be punished.

As protests continue in Iran over suspected poison attacks on schoolgirls, Iran's Judiciary on Monday said that women violating the Islamic dress code will be punished. The further clampdown on women's rights in Iran comes less than a year after Mahsa Amini's death. Meanwhile, at least 15 people were killed and dozens were injured in a massive landslide triggered by incessant rains in Serasan Island, in Riau Islands Province, Indonesia. Amoung other news, the drama continued in Pakistan over Imran Khan a day after he dodged his arrest. Islamabad court rejected a plea filed by the former prime minister where he sought suspension of a non-bailable warrant issued against him in the Toshakhana case. Click on the headlines to read more: Iran: Women to be punished for violating Islamic dress code, says judiciary chief Iran's Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said on Monday (March 6) that women violating the Islamic dress code will be punished, reported Iran's official IRNA news agency. The report has come less than a year after Mahsa Amini's death. Landslide strikes Indonesia, at least 15 killed, 50 feared missing At least 15 people were killed and more than dozens injured after a landslide caused by incessant rains struck Serasan Island, Riau Islands Province—one of the outermost islands in Indonesia. Islamabad court rejects Pak ex-PM Imran Khan's plea to suspend arrest warrant in Toshakhana case A court in Pakistan's capital Islamabad has rejected a plea filed by former prime minister Imran Khan seeking suspension of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visits Mariupol in Ukraine Russian Defence Ministry said on Monday (March 6) that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has visited Mariuopol, a city in southern Ukraine. His visit has come about a year after Russian forces besieged the city, levelling it to the ground. Twitter will ‘soon’ allow users to post tweets with 10,000 characters, says Elon Musk Twitter chief Elon Musk, on early Sunday (March 6) confirmed that users on the microblogging platform can send “longform tweets” with up to 10,000 characters. While responding to a user’s question, Musk also said that the feature would be rolled out “soon” without giving any specific timeline. Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels Japan may disappear if the current trend of falling birth rate continues, warned Masako Mori, an upper house lawmaker and former minister who advises Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on the falling birthrate problem. Taiwan’s defence minister warns China may make ‘sudden entry’ Taiwan’s Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng on Monday said that the country should prepare itself for a “sudden entry” of the Chinese military into its air and sea space, and pressed for increased military exchanges with the US. India vs Australia, BGT 2022/23: Steve Smith set to lead in final Test in Pat Cummins' absence Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the fourth and final Test versus India as well, with regular skipper Pat Cummins to remain in Australia with his ailing mother. The Aussie speedster's mother Maria is ill with breast cancer and is in palliative care, as reported by Cricket Australia. 1 dead, 8 injured in stampede at GloRilla concert in New York Rapper GloRilla, a Memphis native, was performing at the Rochester Main Street Armory, New York on Sunday when false fears of a shooting caused a stampede, killing one person and injuring eight others, according to Rochester police Lt. Nicholas Adams. YOU Season 4, Part II Release Date: When & How to Watch YOU Season 4, Part II, Check release date on Netflix Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) has returned with a new identity, a new love interest and a new serial murderer to confront. Joe's aspirations for a fresh life in the UK were dashed when he found himself in the sights of the 'Eat The Rich' killer, who was eager to become best friends with him after fleeing the California carnage of season three. What does Joe intend to do now that he knows who they are?

Top 10 world news: Iran's judiciary to punish women over dress code, Indonesia landslides kill 15, & more

In this episode of Tech It Out, we introduce you to an 8-year-old app developer, show you the future of mobile phones, and tell you about some interesting inventions created by women.

Tech It Out: ​Episode 100 | Full Show

Iran is one of the most populous countries in West Asia. There are 100 females for every 101.89 males. Women are seen as second class citizens in this country.

Women in Iran seen as second class citizens?

Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his administration had&nbsp;stepped up their efforts to address the thousands of child marriage cases that had been reported in the state. The police launched a massive operation on February 4 against groups involved in child marriages in an effort to rescue girls and arrest those responsible.&nbsp;Irrespective of the widespread public outcry, Assam's chief minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, had&nbsp;said&nbsp;that the state would&nbsp;continue its crackdown on child marriage despite the fact that more than 2000 people had already been&nbsp;detained in connection with the same.

According to an official announcement from the Assam government, more than 2,250 people had&nbsp;been detained in the state in&nbsp;connection with the campaign against child marriage. Based on 4,074 FIRs filed, 2,258 people were detained in total.&nbsp;

<h2>The backlash of the arrests&nbsp;</h2>

As per local media reports, a young woman in Assam died by&nbsp;suicide amid the campaign against child marriage because she was frightened her father would be detained for getting her married when she was still a minor.

The woman, who&nbsp;died by suicide had two children and a husband who had passed away due to Covid. In addition, a Golakganj woman entered a police station and said she would commit suicide if her husband, who was detained on suspicion of child marriage, was not released.

Despite the state government's plans to outlaw child marriage and save young women who had been forcibly married off, hundreds of women surrounded police stations in an act of protest against the arrests made by the administration.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gauhati-hc-grants-bail-in-child-marriage-cases-says-crackdown-caused-havoc-in-private-lives-of-people-562455">Gauhati HC grants bail in child marriage cases, says crackdown caused ‘havoc in private lives of people’</a>

The protesting women insisted that the relatives and spouses the government had detained were innocent. They demanded their release and blocked highways and impeded police mobility.

Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of AIMIM, criticised the BJP administration in Assam for arresting individuals on suspicion of child marriage and demanded to know who would look after the girls and women left behind after their elders were taken into custody.

Owaisi said in a press conference, “For the past six years, there has been a BJP Government in Assam. What have you been doing during the past six years? This is your failure for the past six years. You are sending them to jails. Now, who will take care of those girls? CM (Himanta Biswa Sarma) will? It is a failure of the state and on top of that you are pushing them into misery.”

<h2>What was the Gauhati&nbsp;High Court's decision?</h2>

In conjunction with the state-led drive against child marriages, the Gauhati High Court has granted anticipatory bail&nbsp;to nine individuals who were&nbsp;being questioned by Assam Police. In reference to how the crackdown has wreaked "havoc in the private lives of people," the High Court stated that there was&nbsp;no need to question those who had&nbsp;been detained.

The Assam High Court also condemned the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act, 2012 (POCSO), and rape accusations against those who were found guilty of child marriage. The Assam administration made assertions and charges that the High Court described as&nbsp;"absolutely weird."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-does-air-indias-historic-aircraft-deal-mean-for-india-563040">EXPLAINED: What does Air India's historic aircraft deal mean for India?</a>

Judge Suman Shyam immediately granted bail&nbsp;to all the accused in child marriage cases as per ANI report.

"These are not matters of custodial interrogation. You (state) proceed as per law, we have nothing to say. If you find somebody guilty, file a charge sheet. Let him or her face trial and if they are convicted, they are convicted," the judge said.

"This (arrest) is&nbsp;causing havoc&nbsp;in the private life of people. There are children, there are family members, there are old people. This may not be a good idea to go for (arrests), obviously it is a bad idea," he observed on Tuesday (February 14).

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India: G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, UN Resident Coordinator attend Model G20 discussion

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-g20-sherpa-amitabh-kant-un-resident-coordinator-attend-model-g20-discussion-563162/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Assam, 4,225 child marriage instances have been reported as of February 14; 3,031 people have been detained&nbsp;overall; and 4,004 FIRs have been lodged since the operation started on February 3.

Judge Shyam reminded Assistant Public Prosecutor D Das that the state government did not even have room in the jails and advised that additional cells be built.

Justice Shyam responded to the government advocate's observation that cases had been filed under the POCSO Act's non-bailable charges and the rape (IPC Section 376) provision by saying, "What is the POCSO here? Merely because POCSO is added, does it mean the judges will not see what is there?"

<h2>Addressing the 'real issues' in Assam&nbsp;</h2>

As per the latest statistics, roughly 74 per cent&nbsp;of rural women in Assam have not completed even 10 years of schooling, said a&nbsp;Times of India report. Instead of promoting&nbsp;education, the Assam government announced the shutting down of almost 1,700 state-run schools in keeping with the school 'rationalisation' plan as recommended by the NITI Aayog in September 2022. The state's inability to provide good quality education and healthcare facilities to its women is a major factor contributing to the state's staggering child marriage cases, the report added.&nbsp;

 
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Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his administration had stepped up their efforts to address the thousands of child marriage cases that had been reported in the state.

Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his administration had stepped up their efforts to address the thousands of child marriage cases that had been reported in the state. The police launched a massive operation on February 4 against groups involved in child marriages in an effort to rescue girls and arrest those responsible. Irrespective of the widespread public outcry, Assam's chief minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, had said that the state would continue its crackdown on child marriage despite the fact that more than 2000 people had already been detained in connection with the same. According to an official announcement from the Assam government, more than 2,250 people had been detained in the state in connection with the campaign against child marriage. Based on 4,074 FIRs filed, 2,258 people were detained in total. The backlash of the arrests As per local media reports, a young woman in Assam died by suicide amid the campaign against child marriage because she was frightened her father would be detained for getting her married when she was still a minor. The woman, who died by suicide had two children and a husband who had passed away due to Covid. In addition, a Golakganj woman entered a police station and said she would commit suicide if her husband, who was detained on suspicion of child marriage, was not released. Despite the state government's plans to outlaw child marriage and save young women who had been forcibly married off, hundreds of women surrounded police stations in an act of protest against the arrests made by the administration. ALSO READ | Gauhati HC grants bail in child marriage cases, says crackdown caused ‘havoc in private lives of people’ The protesting women insisted that the relatives and spouses the government had detained were innocent. They demanded their release and blocked highways and impeded police mobility. Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of AIMIM, criticised the BJP administration in Assam for arresting individuals on suspicion of child marriage and demanded to know who would look after the girls and women left behind after their elders were taken into custody. Owaisi said in a press conference, “For the past six years, there has been a BJP Government in Assam. What have you been doing during the past six years? This is your failure for the past six years. You are sending them to jails. Now, who will take care of those girls? CM (Himanta Biswa Sarma) will? It is a failure of the state and on top of that you are pushing them into misery.” What was the Gauhati High Court's decision? In conjunction with the state-led drive against child marriages, the Gauhati High Court has granted anticipatory bail to nine individuals who were being questioned by Assam Police. In reference to how the crackdown has wreaked "havoc in the private lives of people," the High Court stated that there was no need to question those who had been detained. The Assam High Court also condemned the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act, 2012 (POCSO), and rape accusations against those who were found guilty of child marriage. The Assam administration made assertions and charges that the High Court described as "absolutely weird." ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: What does Air India's historic aircraft deal mean for India? Judge Suman Shyam immediately granted bail to all the accused in child marriage cases as per ANI report. "These are not matters of custodial interrogation. You (state) proceed as per law, we have nothing to say. If you find somebody guilty, file a charge sheet. Let him or her face trial and if they are convicted, they are convicted," the judge said. "This (arrest) is causing havoc in the private life of people. There are children, there are family members, there are old people. This may not be a good idea to go for (arrests), obviously it is a bad idea," he observed on Tuesday (February 14). ALSO WATCH | India: G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, UN Resident Coordinator attend Model G20 discussion In Assam, 4,225 child marriage instances have been reported as of February 14; 3,031 people have been detained overall; and 4,004 FIRs have been lodged since the operation started on February 3. Judge Shyam reminded Assistant Public Prosecutor D Das that the state government did not even have room in the jails and advised that additional cells be built. Justice Shyam responded to the government advocate's observation that cases had been filed under the POCSO Act's non-bailable charges and the rape (IPC Section 376) provision by saying, "What is the POCSO here? Merely because POCSO is added, does it mean the judges will not see what is there?" Addressing the 'real issues' in Assam As per the latest statistics, roughly 74 per cent of rural women in Assam have not completed even 10 years of schooling, said a Times of India report. Instead of promoting education, the Assam government announced the shutting down of almost 1,700 state-run schools in keeping with the school 'rationalisation' plan as recommended by the NITI Aayog in September 2022. The state's inability to provide good quality education and healthcare facilities to its women is a major factor contributing to the state's staggering child marriage cases, the report added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED | Crackdown on child marriage in India's Assam: What really happened?

After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the snow cricket in Kashmir Valley in his Mann Ki Baat, Indian Army organised a Women's Snow Cricket Tournament in the bordering area of North Kashmir's Kupwara district. With feet of snow accumulated in the area, the Indian Army organised a Women's Snow Cricket tournament, under the Khelo India initiative, for local female cricketers in the Panzgam village of Kupwara.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulmarg-ski-resort-witnesses-huge-jump-in-number-of-female-ski-instructors-561474">Gulmarg Ski resort witnesses huge jump in number of female ski instructors</a>

For the first time, Indian Army along with the locals organised a Women's Cricket Tournament for the local female cricketers in the area. Four cricket teams of women from different areas of the Kupwara district participated in the tournament. The teams from Kralpora and Meelyal Block of Kupwara participated in the event. And hundreds of people had gathered to watch the girls play on the snow and display the community's passion for cricket.

''We are extremely thankful to the Indian army for giving us an opportunity to play here. Girls generally don't get such opportunities in Kashmir; We are so lucky to play on snow. This time our parents also allowed us to go out and play. Girls are doing great in every field. Girls are doing better in studies, and I am sure they will do much better in sports too, '' said a female cricketer, participating in the tournament.&nbsp;

The event saw a huge number of public participation. The public representatives and locals from the area were present to witness the first-ever winter sports tournament for girls in this area. Such frequent events conducted by Indian Army in Kupwara have seen widespread participation of local women.&nbsp;

WATCH | Massive Avalanche hits India's Kashmir

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''Indian army organised an event for the first time ever in Jammu and Kashmir, Women Cricket tournament has been started on snow, and I am highly thankful to the Indian army for organising such an event for the local young women of the area. More and more such events should be organised in the area to promote the local talent, '' said Mushtaq Ahmed, a local.&nbsp;

Several initiatives by the Indian Army like the establishment of skill development centres and organising competitions in schools to promote participation in extracurricular activities and sports are bringing positive change in these areas. The Indian Army is committed to playing a role in encouraging sports amongst local youth, especially in the bordering areas.&nbsp;

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the snow cricket in Kashmir Valley in his Mann Ki Baat, Indian Army organised a Women's Snow Cricket Tournament in the bordering area of North Kashmir's Kupwara district.

After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the snow cricket in Kashmir Valley in his Mann Ki Baat, Indian Army organised a Women's Snow Cricket Tournament in the bordering area of North Kashmir's Kupwara district. With feet of snow accumulated in the area, the Indian Army organised a Women's Snow Cricket tournament, under the Khelo India initiative, for local female cricketers in the Panzgam village of Kupwara. ALSO READ | Gulmarg Ski resort witnesses huge jump in number of female ski instructors For the first time, Indian Army along with the locals organised a Women's Cricket Tournament for the local female cricketers in the area. Four cricket teams of women from different areas of the Kupwara district participated in the tournament. The teams from Kralpora and Meelyal Block of Kupwara participated in the event. And hundreds of people had gathered to watch the girls play on the snow and display the community's passion for cricket. ''We are extremely thankful to the Indian army for giving us an opportunity to play here. Girls generally don't get such opportunities in Kashmir; We are so lucky to play on snow. This time our parents also allowed us to go out and play. Girls are doing great in every field. Girls are doing better in studies, and I am sure they will do much better in sports too, '' said a female cricketer, participating in the tournament. The event saw a huge number of public participation. The public representatives and locals from the area were present to witness the first-ever winter sports tournament for girls in this area. Such frequent events conducted by Indian Army in Kupwara have seen widespread participation of local women. WATCH | Massive Avalanche hits India's Kashmir ''Indian army organised an event for the first time ever in Jammu and Kashmir, Women Cricket tournament has been started on snow, and I am highly thankful to the Indian army for organising such an event for the local young women of the area. More and more such events should be organised in the area to promote the local talent, '' said Mushtaq Ahmed, a local. Several initiatives by the Indian Army like the establishment of skill development centres and organising competitions in schools to promote participation in extracurricular activities and sports are bringing positive change in these areas. The Indian Army is committed to playing a role in encouraging sports amongst local youth, especially in the bordering areas. 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

Indian army organises Women's Snow Cricket Tournament in North Kashmir

Argentina's immigration authorities are cracking down on Russian pregnant women, who have been flocking to Argentina so that they can give birth to their children and gain the country's citizenship for the newborns since Moscow invaded Ukraine.&nbsp;Argentina’s immigration office director Florencia Carignano on Friday said that they have launched a judicial investigation into what she called a lucrative business that came with the assurance of Argentinian passports for the Russian parents.

Carignano interacted with all 33 Russian women, who were 32 to 34 weeks pregnant and had arrived in Buenos Aires on the same flight on Thursday. Many of the women were initially not given entry at passport control but later on, were allowed to enter the country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-woman-convicted-of-feeding-poisonous-cheesecake-to-lookalike-560556">US: Russian woman convicted of feeding poisonous cheesecake to lookalike</a>

Although the idea of birth tourism is not new, since the Russia-Ukraine war, Argentina, where there are no visa requirements for Russians, has emerged as a popular destination for families hoping to give their children the privileges of dual citizenship.

Carignano said that around 10,500 pregnant Russians arrived in Amsterdam in the past year.

In an interview, Carignano added that “5,800 of them (were) in the last three months, many of them declaring they were in the 33rd or 34th week of pregnancy”.

The official stated that around 7,000 women gave birth to their children and then returned home while giving their Argentinian lawyers the duty to apply for Argentinian citizenship for the newborn and the parents.

WATCH | Russia: Woman leaves note on Putin's parents' grave, gets 5-year jail term

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“The problem is that they arrive, have their children and then leave Argentina never to come back. We cannot allow them to shamelessly lie to us saying that they are tourists when they are not,” said Carignano.

Lawyer Christian Rubilar, representing one of the Russian women, said that his client is 32 weeks pregnant and belongs to Russia and had visited Argentina “escaping from the war”.

“In Putin’s regime, not agreeing to the war is enough for one to go to jail or for members of her family to be sent to the frontline of battle,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Argentina's immigration authorities are cracking down on Russian pregnant women, who have been flocking to Argentina so that they can give birth to their children and gain the country's citizenship for the newborns since Moscow invaded Ukraine.

Argentina's immigration authorities are cracking down on Russian pregnant women, who have been flocking to Argentina so that they can give birth to their children and gain the country's citizenship for the newborns since Moscow invaded Ukraine. Argentina’s immigration office director Florencia Carignano on Friday said that they have launched a judicial investigation into what she called a lucrative business that came with the assurance of Argentinian passports for the Russian parents. Carignano interacted with all 33 Russian women, who were 32 to 34 weeks pregnant and had arrived in Buenos Aires on the same flight on Thursday. Many of the women were initially not given entry at passport control but later on, were allowed to enter the country. ALSO READ | US: Russian woman convicted of feeding poisonous cheesecake to lookalike Although the idea of birth tourism is not new, since the Russia-Ukraine war, Argentina, where there are no visa requirements for Russians, has emerged as a popular destination for families hoping to give their children the privileges of dual citizenship. Carignano said that around 10,500 pregnant Russians arrived in Amsterdam in the past year. In an interview, Carignano added that “5,800 of them (were) in the last three months, many of them declaring they were in the 33rd or 34th week of pregnancy”. The official stated that around 7,000 women gave birth to their children and then returned home while giving their Argentinian lawyers the duty to apply for Argentinian citizenship for the newborn and the parents. WATCH | Russia: Woman leaves note on Putin's parents' grave, gets 5-year jail term “The problem is that they arrive, have their children and then leave Argentina never to come back. We cannot allow them to shamelessly lie to us saying that they are tourists when they are not,” said Carignano. Lawyer Christian Rubilar, representing one of the Russian women, said that his client is 32 weeks pregnant and belongs to Russia and had visited Argentina “escaping from the war”. “In Putin’s regime, not agreeing to the war is enough for one to go to jail or for members of her family to be sent to the frontline of battle,” he said. (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

Argentina cracks down on ‘birth tourism’ as pregnant Russian women flock for citizenship

An ad in China compares women with body hair to Orangutans. It’s high time we stop conforming to societal norms.

Gravitas: Women with body hair compared to animals

The amount of time the average viewer spent watching women's sport in 2022 is more than double the 2021 figure. Watch this to know more.

Increase in viewership of women's sport in 2022: Research

West Asia is known to be a volatile region. The volatility is not limited to politics and economics, rights of one gender are taking a slow death. From Mahasa Amini in Iran, Tiba al-Al in Iraq, to Alaa Salah in Sudan - women of West Asia are speaking up. And with them, people are pouring out on the streets, unifying against far-right governments. The road might be long, but it's a hopeful one!

WION Fineprint: How are women standing up to far-right govts?

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