Yambio, South Sudan
More than 300 child soldiers have been released by armed groups in South Sudan, which is the second-largest release since 2013. It is reported that all sides of the conflict have recruited more than 19,000 children soldiers. The United Nations has worked for the release of about 2,000 children in the past few years.
Original story by The Associated Press, Feb. 7, 2018. The New York Times.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
756 prisoners are set to be released by the Ethiopian government in an effort to decrease tensions within the country. Almost 6,000 prisoners have been released since January, the majority of which were active in mass protests.
Original story by Reuters, Feb. 8, 2018. The New York Times.
Bermuda
Just nine months after legalizing same-sex marriage, the British territory of Bermuda has now forbidden it. The original ruling was decided by the island’s Supreme Court last May but the practice was unpopular with voters.
Original story by Megan Specia, Feb. 8, 2018. The New York Times.
Beijing, China
Three children and their mother are dead after a nanny set fire to their apartment in June. The nanny has since been sentenced to death in a court case that has consumed China. The nanny was reportedly in gambling debt and she planned to start the fire with the intent of extinguishing it because she believed the family would reward her financially for rescuing them.
Original story by Javier C. Hernández and Iris Zhao, Feb. 9, 2018. The New York Times.
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