Current Affairs - International

Germany legalized recreational cannabis use on April 1, 2024, allowing adults over 18 to possess up to 25 grams of dried cannabis and grow up to three marijuana plants at home. This move marked a significant shift in Germany's drug policy despite opposition from some quarters.

The World Health Organization (WHO) launched CoViNet to expand global coronavirus surveillance, involving 36 labs from 21 countries. This initiative broadens expertise in human, animal, and environmental surveillance for comprehensive coronavirus management.

Saudi Arabia has been appointed to chair the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) despite criticism of its poor record on women's rights. The appointment of Saudi Ambassador Abdulaziz Alwasil has raised concerns among human rights groups regarding the kingdom's commitment to gender equality initiatives.

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh attended the 148th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland. The IPU is an international organization of national parliaments that aims to promote democratic governance, accountability, and cooperation among its member countries.

Saudi Arabia sent its first contestant, Rumi Alqahtani, to the Miss Universe pageant, marking a significant step in the country's efforts to liberalize and showcase its presence in international beauty competitions.