The RoundUp: The Paris Agreement, Election 2020, and Magic Mushrooms
A roundup of global news, published every Thursday afternoon. Here’s the big stories for the week ending November 6th.
The United States, the Paris Agreement, and Concerned Scientists: The United States is officially no longer part of the Paris Climate Agreement, an agreement within the United Nations framework to combat climate change as well as accelerate and intensify the actions and investments needed to reduce carbon emissions around the world. President Trump formally notified the UN that the US would withdraw last year even though the latter is responsible for emitting more carbon dioxide due to President Trump’s more than lax carbon pollution limits. Scientists are concerned now more than ever, especially after sixteen climate driven disasters have taken place this year alone. Read more about why scientists are fearful here.
Magic Mushrooms in Oregon: Oregon became the first state in the United States to legalize psilocybin, the main active ingredient in “magic mushrooms.” In fact, it has been made legal for mental health treatment in monitored settings. There is evidence that the drug can help reduce anxiety and depression in certain patients. Oregon is joining quite a few other states in the decriminalization of drugs. Read more about what is being called a “Psychedelic Renaissance” at CNBC.
Rallies for the Prophet: An Anti-France rally held in Bangladesh boasted 50,000 attendees. It is the largest demonstration against France for its publication of the Prophet Muhammed in satirical cartoons and French President's defense of them. “Throw away French products” and “no defamation of the Prophet Muhammed” are among some of the protesters’ chants on a march toward the French embassy. Muslims similarly protested in Indonesia as well. Click here to read more about what Macron, France’s President, said in an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera.
It’s Not Over Till All Ballots Are Counted: News anchors are being vocal about Donald Trump prematurely declaring his re-election according to a report from CNN Business. Although all mail-in ballots have not been counted and may not be counted until the end of the week. President Trump has called mail-in votes “fraudulent” even though evidence shows otherwise. His remarks in the East Wing of the White House has many cringing, and the prediction made by Bernie Sanders during an interview with Late Night host Jimmy Fallon has come to fruition. American voters are awaiting the counts from states like Nevada, Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Alaska. The Associated Press reports that as of today, Presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden has secured 264 electoral votes, while President Donald Trump has secured 214. To win the presidential election, 270 are needed. [Editor’s Note: Former Vice President Joseph Biden is currently in the lead.]
