Global Issues: Refugees, Ukraine Peace Talks, Social Media Ban

The article tells the story of Afghan refugee women who fled their home country after the Taliban took over and made women's sports illegal. The women, now living in the US, have formed a soccer team called Houston Shine FC and are working to forge their own path in the sport. Despite facing numerous challenges, including trauma and separation from their families, the women are determined to continue playing soccer and are fighting for their right to represent Afghanistan in the 2027 Women's FIFA World Cup. FIFA has created an Afghanistan women's refugee team, but has excluded American-based players from participating in international training camps, citing immigration and safety concerns. The players are determined to fight for their rights and continue to play the sport they love.

Talks between US and Ukrainian negotiators over a proposed peace deal with Russia ended in Miami with lingering questions over security guarantees and territorial issues. Ukrainian officials stated that difficult issues remain, particularly regarding territory and security guarantees. The Kremlin welcomed the new US national security strategy, which dropped language describing Russia as a threat. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the talks with US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, emphasizing the need for reliable security guarantees and not surrendering more territory to Russia.

Australia is set to implement a law banning children under 16 from having social media accounts, but teenagers are skeptical about its effectiveness. The law, which takes effect on Wednesday, aims to shield children from the risks associated with social media. However, digital natives have found ways to evade age restrictions in the past and are likely to continue doing so. The teenagers interviewed expressed that social media is deeply embedded in their lives and that the ban will not change their behavior much. They argue that the law does not address the root problems with social media and that companies should take more responsibility for making their platforms safe.

Australia is set to implement a landmark law banning children under 16 from social media platforms. The law, which will affect platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others, aims to protect young teens from online bullying, anxiety, and potential predators. Tech companies will be required to verify users' ages using various technologies and deactivate accounts belonging to underage users. The law has been met with criticism from tech companies, who argue it is rushed and poorly designed. Teens themselves have also expressed skepticism, with many saying they do not think the ban will work and intend to continue using social media.