U.S. military to release new trans-inclusive policies to reverse Trump’s military ban
The measures will allow service members to access gender-affirming health care, among other provisions.
Nations
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.
U.S. announces measures to expand offshore wind energy production
The New Wind Energy Area off the coast of New Jersey will be available for lease to offshore wind companies and the federal government will also make $3 billion in funding available through its loan guarantee program to incentivize wind energy investment.
New Zealand approves paid leave for miscarriage
The country is expanding upon its public health policies surrounding reproductive rights and has unanimously approved a bill that gives mothers and their partners the right to paid leave following a miscarriage or stillbirth.
American bald eagle population has quadrupled over the last decade
A recent report conducted by the US Fish and Wildlife Service said that there were over 316,700 bald eagles and more than 71,400 nesting pairs in the lower 48 states documented during the 2019 breeding season.
Dr. Rachel Levine makes history as first trans official confirmed by U.S. Senate
After a bipartisan vote, Dr. Levine will be the assistant secretary of health at the Department of Health and Human Services despite opposition from the religious right.
Bermuda replaces 1/3 of its bus fleet with EVs
This week, the Government of Bermuda Department of Transportation announced the approval of the purchase of 30 electric buses to replace aged diesel buses and transition toward a zero-emissions fleet.
Wales make Black history courses mandatory in school curricula
Wales has recently announced that all school children in the country will have to take mandatory courses about racism and the contributions of Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) communities to Welsh society.
U.K. is now halfway toward meeting its zero-carbon goal by 2050
Indeed, last year’s carbon emissions in the U.K. were at their lowest levels since 1879, during the reign of Queen Victoria. And on a per capita basis, the the nation’s carbon emissions last year were as low as in 1853, Carbon Brief said.
Deb Haaland confirmed as first Native American Cabinet secretary in U.S. history
“The confirmation of Deb Haaland as secretary of the interior is a tremendous win for Indigenous communities, the waters, parks, and lands across our country, and the climate.”
Canada launches satellite technology that identifies vessels illegally catching fish
It is estimated that illegal fishing accounts for about 30% of all fishing worldwide, representing up to 26 million tons of fish caught annually at a cost to the global economy of more than $23 billion a year.