The Netherlands is writing LGBTQ rights into its constitution
The Netherlands’ lower chamber of the legislature voted 124-26 to add “sexual orientation” to the list of protected categories in its constitution.
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.
Gabon’s legislature repeals the ban on homosexuality
Last week, the National Assembly in the central African nation voted in favor a bill that would legalize homosexuality. This past Monday, the Senate passed the law. President Ali Bongo is expected to sign it.
Germany to abandon all coal energy by 2038
Germany’s Bundestag passed a bill banning coal as a power source. The country will abandon nuclear energy by 2022 and coal by 2038, and will aim for 55% cuts in GHG emissions by 2030 over 1990 levels.
Pakistan to establish 15 new national parks
Under the Protected Area Initiative, a national park will be made in each province. Under the initiative, the coverage of the protected area in the country will be enhanced to 15 per cent of the country’s land area from the current 13 per cent.
Japan begins requiring all retailers to charge for plastic bags
All retail outlets across the country are required to charge customers for the use of plastic bags. The new requirement is an attempt by the government to reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in the country’s rivers, forests, streams and, ultimately, surrounding oceans.
Spain permanently closes half of its coal-fired power stations
Seven of the 15 coal plants still working in Spain will cease operations today, after their owners – the electricity companies – decided that it does not make financial sense to adapt them to European regulations. Four more will shut down soon.
India completes world’s largest ever solar tender
Adani Green Energy Limited and Azure Power have been declared to be the winners of the largest ever solar tender. This effort will result in an investment pegged at almost US $9 billion, create 400,000 direct and indirect jobs, and displace 900 million tons of carbon.
Denmark strikes historic climate deal to slash emissions
Danish lawmakers have struck a climate agreement to ensure their country can live up to a goal of cutting carbon emissions by 70% from 1990 levels over the coming decade.
Ethiopia will plant 5 billion trees this year to tackle climate change
Ethiopia is working on planting five billion trees this year, part of an ambitious plan to plant 20 billion seedlings by 2024 to help build a green climate resistant economy.
Germany forces all petrol stations to provide electric car charging
Germany said it will oblige all petrol stations to offer electric car charging as part of a sweeping 130 billion euro ($146.26 billion) economic recovery plan, boosting electric vehicle demand which has been hampered by consumer concerns over refuelling.