Optimism soared after the Paris Agreement was established in 2015. But progress at UN climate talks since then has been incremental at best.
Dubai went for the fireworks record while the Japanese chose to take time to reflect. Meanwhile, for New Year's, New York is getting a new mayor.
The news over the weekend was of an agreement between leaders of six world powers and Iran over that country's nuclear program — but what the agreement really says isn't really, well, agreed. Still, there was no shortage of strong feelings about the deal. Plus, a Canadian town has developed a system for dealing with polar bear visits to town. That and more, in today's Global Scan.
It’s hard enough getting aid to survivors in an earthquake, but in a conflict zone, it becomes even harder. That has been the case in Pakistan, where according to a spokesman for Balochistan regional government, attacks by separatists have hampered rescue efforts.
Dubai has become renowned for its thoroughbred breeding prowess. But that prowess was challenged recently when an investigation discovered steroid use among 11 horses that are owned by Dubai ruler and United Arab Emirates prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the ruler of Dubai and the Prime Minister of the UAE. He's also one of the most powerful figures in global horse racing. But a doping scandal involving horses at his stable in the UK has rocked the sport.
A Sudan-born reporter saw the need for a modern, intelligent, female heroine and has come out with a new super heroine, Rayann Lawsonia.
The United Arab Emirates has embarked on a campaign to expand its global presence as a leader in foreign aid. In the latest effort, the UAE has made a major investment in Joplin, Mo., which was devastated in 2011 by a tornado.