This archive collects milestones and progress stories involving nations — countries and their governments — acting to improve lives, protect rights, or address shared challenges. From policy breakthroughs to international cooperation, these stories show what countries are doing right.
Since last August, thousands of Awá have been forcibly displaced or suffered threats, intimidation, torture or forced recruitment by organized crime groups participating in drug trafficking and illegal mining.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said his government is also planning to build new irrigation projects, cut flaring from oil drilling, and ramp up clean energy, aiming to draw 30% of the country’s electricity from renewables by 2030.
For years, Honduras was the only nation in the Americas to have an absolute ban on the sale or use of emergency contraception, also known as morning-after or “Plan B” pills.
For the first time, the world has a binding legal framework to protect life across the high seas — the vast international waters that cover roughly half of Earth’s surface and have long existed beyond the reach of environmental law. More than 190 countries agreed to the deal, which creates a pathway to establish marine protected areas in waters that are currently almost entirely unguarded. The ocean absorbs carbon, produces oxygen, and sustains biodiversity we’re only beginning to understand. This treaty shows that even the hardest global problems can bend toward cooperation.\n\n*Word count: 84*
NHS data suggests the gas, used to keep people unconscious during surgery, has a global warming potential 2,500 times greater than carbon dioxide.
The government intends to increase the extent of the Macquarie Island marine park. The island between Tasmania and Antarctica is a vital place for seabirds, penguins, and seals to eat and raise their young.
Despite being critically endangered, hammerhead sharks have been bought and sold in Costa Rica for years, with demand being driven by shark fin soup.
The invasion of miners has contributed to the spread of malaria among the Yanomami, with devastating consequences
Spain’s new law allows those over the age of 16 to legally change their gender without medical supervision or a judge’s approval.
Businesses will be able to reduce their taxable income by 125% of the cost of a renewables investment. Individuals will be able to claim a rebate to the value of 25% of the cost of solar panels.
