Current Affairs - International

In 2024, Japan's birth rate hit a record low for the ninth consecutive year. The country saw 720,988 births, a five per cent decline from the previous year's 758,631 births. This marks the lowest number of births since the Japanese government began tracking birth data in 1899. The decline in births in Japan is a significant demographic trend, reflecting challenges such as an ageing population and fewer young people starting families.

The UAE has introduced the Blue Visa, a 10-year residency permit for individuals dedicated to environmental sustainability. This initiative was announced during the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai. It is part of the country's broader commitment to sustainability and climate action, in line with its existing long-term residency options such as the Golden Visa and Green Visa. The Blue Visa is being launched by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP).

The European Union has classified caffeine as "harmful to humans if swallowed," mainly due to its potential risks to the heart, hydration, and nervous system. This ruling is primarily focused on non-food applications and includes a ban on caffeine's use as a pesticide. However, moderate caffeine intake remains considered safe, and coffee is not expected to face significant restrictions. The ruling also indicates the potential for stricter regulations, especially regarding energy drinks.

According to a recent study, Australia and New Zealand have the highest breast cancer incidence rates in the world. The study examined data from 185 countries and found that the incidence rate in these countries is significantly higher compared to other regions, with an age-standardized incidence rate of 100.3 cases per 100,000 people. The study also highlighted global disparities in risk, with developed nations experiencing higher incidence rates, while lower HDI countries face disproportionate mortality rates.

Dan Bongino, a conservative commentator and former Secret Service agent, was appointed by Donald Trump as the FBI Deputy Director under Kash Patel. Despite having no prior FBI experience, Bongino is a staunch Trump ally and was chosen to help restore "fairness, justice, law, and order" within the FBI. He also hosts The Dan Bongino Show and has publicly praised Kash Patel’s leadership efforts to reform the FBI, signalling his support for changes within the agency.