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As many as 19.3 million voters in Taiwan will elect a new president on January 13th. Their vote could act as a major flashpoint in the global tussle for power. But why are these polls in the tiny island so significant for the world?

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On WION'S power poll, over 70% of respondents believe that independence from china will be the primary issue for Taiwanese voters on January 13.

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<p>The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that coronavirus (COVID-19) cases last month saw a rise during holiday gatherings globally fuelled by the most prominent variant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, said that nearly 10,000 deaths were reported in December.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, hospital admissions jumped 42 per cent during the month in nearly 50 countries. The cases were mostly reported in Europe and the Americas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Although 10,000 deaths a month is far less than the peak of the pandemic, this level of preventable deaths is not acceptable," the WHO chief told reporters from its headquarters in Geneva.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-kills-two-in-maharashtra-karnataka-as-cases-rise-due-to-jn1-sub-variant-678979">Covid kills two in Maharashtra, Karnataka as cases rise due to JN.1 sub-variant</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>WHO chief said that it was "certain" that cases were on the rise in other places that haven't been reporting. He also urged the governments to track Covid cases and provide continued access to treatments and vaccines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Tedros, the JN.1 variant was now the most prominent in the world. It is an omicron variant, so current vaccines should still provide some protection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by The Associated Press, Maria Van Kerkhove, who is the technical lead at WHO for Covid, cited an increase in respiratory diseases across the globe due to the coronavirus but also flu, rhinovirus and pneumonia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While talking about increases in Covid in the southern hemisphere — where it's now summer, she said: "We expect those trends to continue into January through the winter months in the northern hemisphere."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-seeks-public-opinion-as-it-moves-to-ban-recreational-cannabis-use-after-historic-decriminalisation-678708">Thailand seeks public opinion as it moves to ban recreational cannabis use, after historic decriminalisation</a></strong></p>

<p>Van Kerkhove further said this year in particular, "we are seeing co-circulation of many different types of pathogens" as she mentioned cough, sniffling, fever and fatigue in the winter are nothing new.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vaccination, wearing masks, and proper ventilation are some of the recommendations given by WHO officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Michael Ryan, head of emergencies at WHO, said: "The vaccines may not stop you being infected, but the vaccines are certainly reducing significantly your chance of being hospitalized or dying."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;At least 300 dead as Congo River basin submerged by generational floods&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Mask mandate in Spain&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The report by WHO comes amid Spain imposing&nbsp;mask mandate in hospitals and other healthcare facilities from Wednesday to curb Covid cases, the health ministry said on Monday as the country faces a flu outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decree was announced after a meeting between the health ministry and representatives of the country's regions, who control their own health systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spanish Health Minister Monica Garcia after the meeting said,&nbsp;"Since the pandemic, we have learnt. We have thought hard about the issue of the mask to protect above all health centres and hospitals, to protect patients as much as (healthcare) professionals."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that coronavirus (COVID-19) cases last month saw a rise during holiday gatherings globally fuelled by the most prominent variant.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that coronavirus (COVID-19) cases last month saw a rise during holiday gatherings globally fuelled by the most prominent variant. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, said that nearly 10,000 deaths were reported in December. Meanwhile, hospital admissions jumped 42 per cent during the month in nearly 50 countries. The cases were mostly reported in Europe and the Americas. "Although 10,000 deaths a month is far less than the peak of the pandemic, this level of preventable deaths is not acceptable," the WHO chief told reporters from its headquarters in Geneva. Also read: Covid kills two in Maharashtra, Karnataka as cases rise due to JN.1 sub-variant WHO chief said that it was "certain" that cases were on the rise in other places that haven't been reporting. He also urged the governments to track Covid cases and provide continued access to treatments and vaccines. According to Tedros, the JN.1 variant was now the most prominent in the world. It is an omicron variant, so current vaccines should still provide some protection. As quoted by The Associated Press, Maria Van Kerkhove, who is the technical lead at WHO for Covid, cited an increase in respiratory diseases across the globe due to the coronavirus but also flu, rhinovirus and pneumonia. While talking about increases in Covid in the southern hemisphere — where it's now summer, she said: "We expect those trends to continue into January through the winter months in the northern hemisphere." Also read: Thailand seeks public opinion as it moves to ban recreational cannabis use, after historic decriminalisation Van Kerkhove further said this year in particular, "we are seeing co-circulation of many different types of pathogens" as she mentioned cough, sniffling, fever and fatigue in the winter are nothing new. Vaccination, wearing masks, and proper ventilation are some of the recommendations given by WHO officials. Dr Michael Ryan, head of emergencies at WHO, said: "The vaccines may not stop you being infected, but the vaccines are certainly reducing significantly your chance of being hospitalized or dying." Watch: At least 300 dead as Congo River basin submerged by generational floods × Mask mandate in Spain The report by WHO comes amid Spain imposing mask mandate in hospitals and other healthcare facilities from Wednesday to curb Covid cases, the health ministry said on Monday as the country faces a flu outbreak. The decree was announced after a meeting between the health ministry and representatives of the country's regions, who control their own health systems. Spanish Health Minister Monica Garcia after the meeting said, "Since the pandemic, we have learnt. We have thought hard about the issue of the mask to protect above all health centres and hospitals, to protect patients as much as (healthcare) professionals." (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 during holidays: WHO says nearly 10,000 died due to cases fueled by new variant

Just a couple of days before the people of Taiwan cast their vote, China has strongly opposed any official exchanges between the US and Taiwan. This comes after the Biden administration announced- it will send an unofficial delegation to Taiwan shortly after the election.

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Dr Saveera Parkash, Pakistan's first Hindu woman poll contestant speaks to WION

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<p>Germany, on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that they have approved the delivery of 150 IRIS-T air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia, marking a reversal in the years-long decision to ban arms exports to the kingdom. The restrictions were imposed by Berlin in 2018 in response to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit confirmed a report by the German weekly Spiegel, which said Berlin had authorised the sale of the 150 missiles to Riyadh. “The details of this report are accurate,” said Hebestreit, speaking at a daily press conference.</p>

<p>He added that IRIS-T could “be fired from aircraft at airborne targets, that is to say missiles, drones and so on”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What changed Germany’s mind?</strong></h2>

<p>The move marks a major shift of policy for Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government. According to Spiegel, the authorisation to send missiles, produced by German arms maker Diehl and fired by Saudi Arabia’s Eurofighter jets, was granted towards the end of last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters citing a security source said that the new batch of missiles is meant to replenish Saudi stocks depleted over the past years, adding that recently the kingdom has used them to shoot down drones fired from Houthi-controlled Yemen.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-railways-grind-to-near-halt-in-three-day-train-drivers-strike-678776">German railways grind to near halt in three-day train drivers’ strike</a></strong></p>

<p>The ban on Saudi Arabia was imposed by the government of&nbsp;former Chancellor Angela Merkel following Khashoggi’s killing inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October 2018.</p>

<p>However, Berlin has recently loosened its stance, and even praised Saudi Arabia’s “constructive approach,” amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock during a visit to Jerusalem on Sunday (Jan 7) said Saudi Arabia has been making a significant contribution to Israel’s security after Hamas’ October 7 attacks and “this is helping to contain the danger of the conflict spreading across the region.”</p>

<p>She noted that Riyadh had also made efforts to intercept missiles fired at Israel by Iran-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scholz and Baerbock have also said that Germany will no longer stand in the way of British plans to sell additional Eurofighters to Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>Currently, Saudi Arabia has 72 Eurofighters, as reported by DW. Previously, the United Kingdom said that they would like to supply 48 more to the kingdom, a decision which required Berlin’s approval since the Eurofighter project is a joint British, German, Italian and Spanish effort.</p>

<p>German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, currently in Saudi Arabia to discuss energy and economic cooperation, said the country had an important role to play regarding the stabilisation of the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-in-favour-of-tangible-steps-for-palestinian-state-blinken-tells-abbas-678690">US in favour of 'tangible steps' for Palestinian state, Blinken tells Abbas</a></strong></p>

<p>“Saudi Arabia is engaging in a such way that there is no escalation there,” Habeck said in comments broadcast by NTV. He added, “My perception is that Saudi Arabia is self-confident enough to know its role and wants to fulfil it.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Decision sparks disagreements</strong></h2>

<p>The shift in policy about supplying arms to Saudi Arabia has sparked disagreements within the ruling coalition, with prominent figures from Baerbock’s Green Party voicing their concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Co-chair of the Greens, Ricarda Lang insisted that “with a view on the human rights situation, including Saudi Arabia’s domestic constitution, I think as before that it is wrong to deliver Eurofighters” to the kingdom.</p>

<p>Notably, the 2021 coalition agreement between Scholz’s SPD, FDP and Greens explicitly states that there will be no approval of arms deliveries to any country directly involved in the war in Yemen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Germany, on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that they have approved the delivery of 150 IRIS-T air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia, marking a reversal in the years-long decision to ban arms exports to the kingdom.

Germany, on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that they have approved the delivery of 150 IRIS-T air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia, marking a reversal in the years-long decision to ban arms exports to the kingdom. The restrictions were imposed by Berlin in 2018 in response to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit confirmed a report by the German weekly Spiegel, which said Berlin had authorised the sale of the 150 missiles to Riyadh. “The details of this report are accurate,” said Hebestreit, speaking at a daily press conference. He added that IRIS-T could “be fired from aircraft at airborne targets, that is to say missiles, drones and so on”. What changed Germany’s mind? The move marks a major shift of policy for Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government. According to Spiegel, the authorisation to send missiles, produced by German arms maker Diehl and fired by Saudi Arabia’s Eurofighter jets, was granted towards the end of last year. Reuters citing a security source said that the new batch of missiles is meant to replenish Saudi stocks depleted over the past years, adding that recently the kingdom has used them to shoot down drones fired from Houthi-controlled Yemen. ALSO READ | German railways grind to near halt in three-day train drivers’ strike The ban on Saudi Arabia was imposed by the government of former Chancellor Angela Merkel following Khashoggi’s killing inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October 2018. However, Berlin has recently loosened its stance, and even praised Saudi Arabia’s “constructive approach,” amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock during a visit to Jerusalem on Sunday (Jan 7) said Saudi Arabia has been making a significant contribution to Israel’s security after Hamas’ October 7 attacks and “this is helping to contain the danger of the conflict spreading across the region.” She noted that Riyadh had also made efforts to intercept missiles fired at Israel by Iran-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels. Scholz and Baerbock have also said that Germany will no longer stand in the way of British plans to sell additional Eurofighters to Saudi Arabia. Currently, Saudi Arabia has 72 Eurofighters, as reported by DW. Previously, the United Kingdom said that they would like to supply 48 more to the kingdom, a decision which required Berlin’s approval since the Eurofighter project is a joint British, German, Italian and Spanish effort. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, currently in Saudi Arabia to discuss energy and economic cooperation, said the country had an important role to play regarding the stabilisation of the Middle East. ALSO READ | US in favour of 'tangible steps' for Palestinian state, Blinken tells Abbas “Saudi Arabia is engaging in a such way that there is no escalation there,” Habeck said in comments broadcast by NTV. He added, “My perception is that Saudi Arabia is self-confident enough to know its role and wants to fulfil it.” Decision sparks disagreements The shift in policy about supplying arms to Saudi Arabia has sparked disagreements within the ruling coalition, with prominent figures from Baerbock’s Green Party voicing their concerns. Co-chair of the Greens, Ricarda Lang insisted that “with a view on the human rights situation, including Saudi Arabia’s domestic constitution, I think as before that it is wrong to deliver Eurofighters” to the kingdom. Notably, the 2021 coalition agreement between Scholz’s SPD, FDP and Greens explicitly states that there will be no approval of arms deliveries to any country directly involved in the war in Yemen. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany resumes arms sales to Saudi Arabia, ending years-long ban

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<p>Taiwan on Saturday is set to hold elections&nbsp;which are being closely watched - in China as well as the United States. It is said that the election results will impact the future of Taiwan's relations with Beijing. Apart from the US and China, experts and Taiwanese authorities have raised concerns about what could hamper the election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They have said that the election campaign has been hit by a wave of disinformation and TikTok videos, which are particularly aimed at candidates China opposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beijing has made it clear that it opposes the frontrunner Lai Ching-te, whose Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) rejects China's assertion that Taiwan is its own territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-satellite-launch-sparks-safety-alert-on-taiwan-phones-amid-election-tensions-678213">China’s satellite launch sparks safety alert on Taiwan phones amid election tensions</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP detailed how one Chinese hashtag criticising Lai received over 8.5 million views. The report added that replies to such posts and videos criticising the DPP were filled with derogatory remarks and conspiracy theories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On one video featuring DPP opponents, one TikTok user commented: "She's a foreigner." The video claimed Lai's running mate Hsiao Bi-khim was secretly a US citizen, and thus ineligible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hsiao has often stated that she handed up her US citizenship years ago. However, the unfounded claim about Hsiao's US citizenship has been the most persistent social media allegation during the election campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFP also said that it has discovered her name on a US government registry of those who have renounced their nationality.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-imposes-sanctions-on-us-defence-giants-amid-growing-taiwan-tensions-677647">China vs US intensifies: Dragon nation imposes sanctions on US defence giants amid growing Taiwan tensions</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to experts, the flow of disinformation demonstrates a Beijing-linked effort to undermine any lawmakers who oppose Taiwan's status as a part of China.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jonathan Sullivan of the University of Nottingham told the news agency that "(China-led) information campaigns are sustained, systematic and produce huge volumes of misinformation -- anything to discredit... the legitimacy of Taiwan's democracy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sullivan added, "Taiwan faces an extremely well-resourced and motivated rival for 'hearts and minds'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lai has levelled accusations against China of using "all means to interfere with this election". Meanwhile, Beijing has dismissed the allegations as "rumours and hype".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Taiwan on Saturday is set to hold elections which are being closely watched - in China as well as the United States. It is said that the election results will impact the future of Taiwan's relations with Beijing.

Taiwan on Saturday is set to hold elections which are being closely watched - in China as well as the United States. It is said that the election results will impact the future of Taiwan's relations with Beijing. Apart from the US and China, experts and Taiwanese authorities have raised concerns about what could hamper the election. They have said that the election campaign has been hit by a wave of disinformation and TikTok videos, which are particularly aimed at candidates China opposes. Beijing has made it clear that it opposes the frontrunner Lai Ching-te, whose Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) rejects China's assertion that Taiwan is its own territory. Also read: China’s satellite launch sparks safety alert on Taiwan phones amid election tensions A report by the news agency AFP detailed how one Chinese hashtag criticising Lai received over 8.5 million views. The report added that replies to such posts and videos criticising the DPP were filled with derogatory remarks and conspiracy theories. On one video featuring DPP opponents, one TikTok user commented: "She's a foreigner." The video claimed Lai's running mate Hsiao Bi-khim was secretly a US citizen, and thus ineligible. Hsiao has often stated that she handed up her US citizenship years ago. However, the unfounded claim about Hsiao's US citizenship has been the most persistent social media allegation during the election campaign. AFP also said that it has discovered her name on a US government registry of those who have renounced their nationality. Also read: China vs US intensifies: Dragon nation imposes sanctions on US defence giants amid growing Taiwan tensions According to experts, the flow of disinformation demonstrates a Beijing-linked effort to undermine any lawmakers who oppose Taiwan's status as a part of China. Jonathan Sullivan of the University of Nottingham told the news agency that "(China-led) information campaigns are sustained, systematic and produce huge volumes of misinformation -- anything to discredit... the legitimacy of Taiwan's democracy." Sullivan added, "Taiwan faces an extremely well-resourced and motivated rival for 'hearts and minds'." Lai has levelled accusations against China of using "all means to interfere with this election". Meanwhile, Beijing has dismissed the allegations as "rumours and hype". (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan election: Pro-China disinformation targets voters with deepfakes and manipulative videos

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Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- The Israeli Army on Wednesday released a statement saying that one of its Vehicles unintentionally ran over the body of a Palestinian terrorist in a counterterrorism operation in the occupied West Bank.

Israel: Troops 'unintentionally' ran over terrorist's body in West Bank

In the backdrop of South Africa's genocide case being heard at the Israeli government advertising agency in collaboration with Dutch billboard companies prepared an awareness campaign on the hostage situation in Gaza. But the Israeli government's message was unable to get through just before the Billboards were supposed to go up the Dutch companies backed off refusing to put them up.

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Two Russian missiles pounded a hotel in Ukraine's second-largest city Kharkiv. The missile strikes injured at least 11 people, with one person suffering serious injuries. No casualties were reported. The attack had occurred in the city at around 10.30 p.m. Local time. Images showed the streets covered with massive mounds of debris, numerous windows blasted out, and ruined balconies.

Russian missile hits hotel in Ukraine's Kharkiv | Ecuador on the edge

It's a war in the Red Sea. Maritime trade through this critical passage for world trade has been hit by relentless Houthi attacks as Yemen's rebel group seeks to avenge the continuous Israeli assault on Palestinians in Gaza. Their target is Western shipping. The U.S. has mobilized heavily in the waters and many countries have rushed warships to the region. But is this strategy working?

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Russia-Ukraine War: 11 wounded, 1 killed in Russian strikes on a Kharkiv hotel

China recently said it will "never compromise" on the issue of Taiwan, in its first military talks with the US since 2021.

China military tells US it will 'never compromise' on issue of Taiwan

Two Russian missiles have struck a hotel in Ukraine's second-largest city, Kharkiv, said Kharkiv governor.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian missiles pound Ukraine's Kharkiv

Global pharmaceutical company Lupin has announced a new drug to assist quit smoking treatment in the US markets it's called Varenicline tablets. The drug has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration.

Lupin introduces new anti-smoking pill for US markets

Breaking news just coming in armed men in military style uniforms boarded an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations has flagged this latest incident. Watch to know more.

Armed guards board oil tanker near Oman

<p>Concerns about the impact of social media on users' mental health have always been there. Do tech giants like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram care, or is it all about engagement for them? If they do care, to what extent?</p>

<p>In the last few years, instances where social media has contributed to self-harm have come to light across the world.</p>

<p>&nbsp;A recent incident that especially shocked the world is from the UK, where a woman Chloe Macdermott made a so-called suicide pact with strangers she met online and killed herself.</p>

<p>Paul Rogers, the coroner investigating her case, said he believed tech giants like Google and Amazon have the power to prevent tragedies like Chloe Macdermott's suicide pact.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjt6amOuNWDAxUEsVYBHR6dCJgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coroner-investigating-chloe-macdermott-suicide-pact-says-google-amazon-can-prevent-such-tragedies-675522" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/coroner-investigating-chloe-macdermott-suicide-pact-says-google-amazon-can-prevent-such-tragedies-675522&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjt6amOuNWDAxUEsVYBHR6dCJgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Chloe Macdermott suicide pact: 'Google, Amazon can prevent such tragedies', says Coroner investigating case</a></strong></p>

<p>WION decided to investigate how easy or difficult it would be to go about making such a pact on the big three social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For this, we simply ran a search for the term 'suicide pact,' to see what would come up. The results were concerning.</p>

<h2><strong>Twitter/ X</strong></h2>

<p>On Elon Musk's Twitter, now called X, the search for 'suicide pact' brought up a page that said in bold "Help is available".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, you are not alone. Our partners can help. You can refer to NIMHANS website for resources or contact the helplines given in the Twitter list," it adds.</p>

<p><img alt="X 1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a9de136-ad45-431f-998d-7b250aac83e4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fb.png" /></p>

<p>This is followed by two links, if&nbsp;one is searching in India. One opens up the NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences) website, India's apex centre for mental health.</p>

<p>The other one, labelled 'Suicide Prevention Helplines (Twitter List),' should lead to a detailed depository of helplines, but brings up a page that says <em>"Hmm...this page doesn't exist. Try searching for something else."&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><em><img alt="X 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22e28d1f-0b44-4e23-a2a1-799cfbf31da2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/twit%20suicide%202.png" /></em></p>

<p>Needless to say, this is concerning. If the search was run by someone contemplating suicide, to them, stuck in a dark phase, this might seem like a further sign of hopelessness.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Mumbai: 23% more minor girls than boys died by suicide in 4 years</strong></p>

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<p>This could very well be a result of the social media giant formerly known as Twitter slashing its global trust and safety staff by 30 per cent since the Musk 2022 takeover.</p>

<p>Apart from this, the search fetched results that could be triggering. Here are some.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Who's up for a suicide pact?</p>
— Mario (@thecarnello) <a href="https://twitter.com/thecarnello/status/1743767596254494749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">suicide pact anyone?</p>
— 🐾tee🐈‍⬛ (@newfoundg0ry) <a href="https://twitter.com/newfoundg0ry/status/1742500102978121990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">first date idea: suicide pact</p>
— Kat (@ollkorrect0) <a href="https://twitter.com/ollkorrect0/status/1728930369884557661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">anyone up for a suicide pact?</p>
— jai (@bellepitseleh) <a href="https://twitter.com/bellepitseleh/status/1742884774577115294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A suicide pact would be so cool right now</p>
— Campurr (@Purrpurrchan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Purrpurrchan/status/1734580324338729275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Facebook</strong></h2>

<p>The same search for 'suicide pact' on Facebook showed a page with yet another "Help is available" sign. Two buttons followed this one. The first one, 'Get Support', led to another page that had very helpful results.</p>

<p><img alt="FB1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="96b63b21-d55c-4397-ba40-4040e5573e0d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fb_0.png" /></p>

<p>A 'Reach out to a friend' nudges users to get in touch with people they trust, which for someone stuck in the dark loop of self-harm can be a lifesaver, especially given that mental health problems often come with self-isolation.<br />
<img alt="FB2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ed834737-14f8-4c1a-963e-a30bf4e43bdd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/fb%202.png" /></p>

<p>The second button, 'Contact a helpline', brought up several helplines from across the country; telephonic, email-based and even websites.</p>

<p><img alt="FB3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c898cd4-6d6a-4282-b490-c07f483df913" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/fb%203.png" /></p>

<p>'See suggestions from professionals outside of Meta', which was the third option, showed infographics on things that "others have found helpful".</p>

<p><img alt="FB4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61dd60a9-bbe6-4478-ba96-8660cee530fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/fb%204_0.png" /></p>

<h2><strong>Instagram</strong></h2>

<p>Another Meta platform, Instagram, is especially popular among young people. However, our hopes which were raised by Facebook's exhaustive and helpful content were dashed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The search for 'suicide pact' on Instagram fetched many results; accounts, hashtags etc. that made mention of the term. Instagram, which as per Statista boasts 30.8 per cent of users between the ages of 18 and 24, an especially vulnerable age group, didn't even have a "Help is available" for courtesy's sake.</p>

<p><img alt="IG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="472003ab-18ed-4240-a86e-9e49999d7c8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IG%20suicide.jpg" /></p>

<p>Given that a huge percentage of the users on these platforms are young children, should certain content and search results be censored, at least to some extent?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjt6amOuNWDAxUEsVYBHR6dCJgQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disturbing-trend-in-2022-more-people-than-ever-died-by-suicide-in-the-united-states-664285" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/disturbing-trend-in-2022-more-people-than-ever-died-by-suicide-in-the-united-states-664285&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjt6amOuNWDAxUEsVYBHR6dCJgQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Disturbing trend: In 2022, more suicides than ever took place in the United States</a></strong></p>

<p>While these tech giants claim to address mental health concerns, their actions sometimes fall short.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social media platforms' emphasis on engagement can inadvertently lead to the amplification of sensational, provocative, or harmful material that can contribute to dangerous steps taken at sensitive moments.</p>

<p>Big tech must recognise that striking a balance between user engagement and mental well-being is not just a moral obligation, but a critical step towards fostering healthier online communities.</p>


Concerns about the impact of social media on users' mental health have always been there. Do tech giants like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram care, or is it all about engagement for them?

Concerns about the impact of social media on users' mental health have always been there. Do tech giants like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram care, or is it all about engagement for them? If they do care, to what extent? In the last few years, instances where social media has contributed to self-harm have come to light across the world. A recent incident that especially shocked the world is from the UK, where a woman Chloe Macdermott made a so-called suicide pact with strangers she met online and killed herself. Paul Rogers, the coroner investigating her case, said he believed tech giants like Google and Amazon have the power to prevent tragedies like Chloe Macdermott's suicide pact. Also read | Chloe Macdermott suicide pact: 'Google, Amazon can prevent such tragedies', says Coroner investigating case WION decided to investigate how easy or difficult it would be to go about making such a pact on the big three social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. For this, we simply ran a search for the term 'suicide pact,' to see what would come up. The results were concerning. Twitter/ X On Elon Musk's Twitter, now called X, the search for 'suicide pact' brought up a page that said in bold "Help is available". "If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, you are not alone. Our partners can help. You can refer to NIMHANS website for resources or contact the helplines given in the Twitter list," it adds. This is followed by two links, if one is searching in India. One opens up the NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences) website, India's apex centre for mental health. The other one, labelled 'Suicide Prevention Helplines (Twitter List),' should lead to a detailed depository of helplines, but brings up a page that says "Hmm...this page doesn't exist. Try searching for something else." Needless to say, this is concerning. If the search was run by someone contemplating suicide, to them, stuck in a dark phase, this might seem like a further sign of hopelessness. Watch | Mumbai: 23% more minor girls than boys died by suicide in 4 years × This could very well be a result of the social media giant formerly known as Twitter slashing its global trust and safety staff by 30 per cent since the Musk 2022 takeover. Apart from this, the search fetched results that could be triggering. Here are some. Who's up for a suicide pact? — Mario (@thecarnello) January 6, 2024 × suicide pact anyone? — 🐾tee🐈‍⬛ (@newfoundg0ry) January 3, 2024 × first date idea: suicide pact — Kat (@ollkorrect0) November 27, 2023 × anyone up for a suicide pact? — jai (@bellepitseleh) January 4, 2024 × A suicide pact would be so cool right now — Campurr (@Purrpurrchan) December 12, 2023 × Facebook The same search for 'suicide pact' on Facebook showed a page with yet another "Help is available" sign. Two buttons followed this one. The first one, 'Get Support', led to another page that had very helpful results. A 'Reach out to a friend' nudges users to get in touch with people they trust, which for someone stuck in the dark loop of self-harm can be a lifesaver, especially given that mental health problems often come with self-isolation. The second button, 'Contact a helpline', brought up several helplines from across the country; telephonic, email-based and even websites. 'See suggestions from professionals outside of Meta', which was the third option, showed infographics on things that "others have found helpful". Instagram Another Meta platform, Instagram, is especially popular among young people. However, our hopes which were raised by Facebook's exhaustive and helpful content were dashed. The search for 'suicide pact' on Instagram fetched many results; accounts, hashtags etc. that made mention of the term. Instagram, which as per Statista boasts 30.8 per cent of users between the ages of 18 and 24, an especially vulnerable age group, didn't even have a "Help is available" for courtesy's sake. Given that a huge percentage of the users on these platforms are young children, should certain content and search results be censored, at least to some extent? Also read | Disturbing trend: In 2022, more suicides than ever took place in the United States While these tech giants claim to address mental health concerns, their actions sometimes fall short. Social media platforms' emphasis on engagement can inadvertently lead to the amplification of sensational, provocative, or harmful material that can contribute to dangerous steps taken at sensitive moments. Big tech must recognise that striking a balance between user engagement and mental well-being is not just a moral obligation, but a critical step towards fostering healthier online communities.

Dark side of social media: Do X, Facebook, Instagram care about your mental health? WION investigates

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