Current Affairs - International

The Philippines has pioneered Southeast Asia’s first Coral Larvae Cryobank, aimed at preserving coral genetic diversity and safeguarding vital reef ecosystems. Using advanced cryopreservation techniques, coral larvae are frozen at ultra-low temperatures to halt biological activity, allowing future revival for reef restoration and research. The initiative is part of a multinational collaboration across the Coral Triangle region, which holds over 75% of the world’s coral species and nearly a third of reef fish species. This effort addresses threats from climate change, bleaching events, and human activities, contributing to marine biodiversity conservation and the resilience of coastal ecosystems.

Russia’s lower house of parliament has approved the country’s withdrawal from the Plutonium Management and Disposition Agreement (PMDA) with the United States. The PMDA, signed in 2000 and implemented in 2011, required both nations to dispose of 34 tonnes of weapons-grade plutonium each—enough to produce around 17,000 nuclear warheads. The agreement was aimed at reducing nuclear stockpiles and preventing proliferation. Russia’s decision to exit marks a setback for nuclear disarmament efforts and reflects rising tensions between the two major powers over strategic and security concerns in global geopolitics.

Palau, a Pacific island nation comprising 340 islands, hosted the world’s first live underwater interview to highlight the importance of ocean conservation. The interview utilised the innovative LiFi Talking Mask technology, which transmits sound underwater using light, allowing clear communication beneath the sea. Palau’s initiative emphasises the nation’s vulnerability to rising sea levels and its commitment to protecting marine ecosystems. This pioneering event combined technology, awareness, and environmental advocacy, setting a global example for creative methods to engage the public in marine conservation and climate change awareness.

India launched its National Red List Roadmap and Vision 2025–2030 at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, aiming to strengthen biodiversity conservation efforts. Unveiled by Union Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh, the initiative sets the groundwork for compiling National Red Data Books for both flora and fauna by 2030. The roadmap is designed to systematically assess species’ conservation status, raise awareness about threatened biodiversity, and guide policy measures for habitat protection. This step reinforces India’s commitment to global environmental goals, sustainable ecosystem management, and the protection of endangered species across its diverse ecological landscapes.

Fiji has introduced its first National Child Safeguarding Policy, establishing a comprehensive framework to protect children across all sectors. The policy mandates that services involving children be safe, respectful, and child-friendly, aiming to prevent harm and promote well-being. This initiative addresses growing regional concerns about child safety in the Pacific and sets a national benchmark for other countries to follow. By creating clear guidelines and accountability mechanisms, Fiji strengthens its commitment to child protection, ensuring that all children have access to secure environments where their rights, dignity, and development are prioritised.