‘Rice ATMs’ provide free rice for people out of work in Vietnam due to COVID-19
For these people who are suddenly without income, businessmen and donors have set up machines that dispense free rice at several cities across Vietnam.
Nations
This archive collects stories from Good News for Humankind involving nations — countries and their governments — as key actors in progress. Across 1,807 articles, you’ll find reporting on policy wins, international cooperation, and measurable improvements in health, climate, rights, and more.
E.U. to allow markets to sell insect-based foods in ‘breakthrough moment’
In the next few weeks, the European Union’s Food Safety Authority is expected to classify several types of insects as safe for human consumption.
Vietnam to ship 450,000 protective suits to United States to support COVID-19 response
“This shipment will help protect healthcare professionals working on the front lines against COVID-19 in the United States and demonstrates the strength of the U.S.-Vietnam partnership,” the U.S. embassy in Hanoi said.
Pakistan enacts largest social assistance program in nation’s history for COVID-19
The $1 billion program, which aims to cover 12 million families, is meant to assist them to “buy rations so that they don’t go hungry.”
China donates 1,000 ventilators to New York to support COVID-19 response
The state of Oregon is also sending 140 ventilators to New York, which has become an epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak.
Wales announces plans to ban single-use plastics by 2021
Plans to ban a wide range of single-use plastics have been confirmed by the Welsh Government. Plastic straws, cotton buds and balloon sticks are among the items set to be outlawed or restricted by 2021
Iranian government makes medical services free for all COVID-19 patients
The Iranian Health Minister said that uninsured and underprivileged patients should not pay for the healthcare services and the costs will be compensated by the national health insurance system.
Taiwan to donate 10 million masks to countries hit hardest by coronavirus
Taiwan is donating 7 million masks to Europe, including Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Belgium and the U.K., and an additional 2 million masks to the U.S.,
Portugal grants migrants and asylum-seekers citizenship rights during pandemic
Portugal has temporarily given all migrants and asylum seekers full citizenship rights, granting them full access to the country’s healthcare until at least June 30.
Seychelles extends marine protection area to twice the size of Great Britain
The move fulfills the country’s long-standing pledge to safeguard 30% of its marine waters.