Japan has commenced over-the-counter sales of the emergency contraceptive pill NorLevo, marking a significant shift in reproductive healthcare access. The pill is now available without a prescription, age limit, or parental consent, though purchase requires in-person consultation with a trained pharmacist. This move aligns Japan with international standards.
Ireland is marking St. Brigid's Day, a national public holiday since 2023, with widespread celebrations across the country and globally. The day, observed annually on February 1st, signifies the arrival of spring and honors St. Brigid of Kildare, while also highlighting women's creativity, achievements, and leadership.
In a landmark ruling on January 30, 2026, the Supreme Court of India declared that the right to menstrual health is an integral part of the 'Right to Life' under Article 21 of the Constitution. The court mandated all schools, both government and private, to provide free sanitary pads, gender-segregated toilets, and implement awareness programs to destigmatize menstruation.
The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has determined that San José State University violated Title IX by allowing a male athlete to compete on its women's volleyball team and retaliating against female athletes and an assistant coach who raised concerns. The university faces potential enforcement action if it does not comply with a series of demands within 10 days. The findings stem from a controversy involving transgender athlete Blaire Fleming and complaints from female players and a former coach.
Prime Minister Robert Abela announced a new €276 million agreement to ensure the continuation of free childcare services in Malta for the next four years. This substantial investment, marking a €34 million increase, aims to further support families and encourage greater participation in the workforce.
Hungary has expressed keen interest in learning from Kyrgyzstan's experience with digital election technologies and the implementation of gender quotas. This interest was conveyed during a meeting in Bishkek between Hungarian Ambassador Sándor Dorogi and Aidana Zhupueva, Deputy Chairperson of Kyrgyzstan's Central Election Commission, on January 23, 2026. Discussions also covered bilateral cooperation and the establishment of a Hungarian polling station in Kyrgyzstan.
A 33-year-old British woman, identified as Victoria, was murdered in Alhaurín el Grande, Malaga, on Saturday, January 24. Her ex-partner, Juan A. R., has been arrested after reportedly surrendering to authorities. The incident is being investigated as a case of gender-based violence, highlighting concerns about the effectiveness of protection measures.
Malaysia has reaffirmed its dedication to children's rights at the 100th Session of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in Geneva. The delegation, led by Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, highlighted significant initiatives in child welfare and protection, marking Malaysia's first ministerial-led participation since 2007.
Malaysia has reaffirmed its dedication to children's rights at the 100th Session of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in Geneva. The delegation, led by Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, highlighted significant national initiatives for child welfare and protection, marking a historic ministerial-led participation.
Inspiring More Sustainability (IMS) hosted a networking event and workshop on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Société Générale Luxembourg. The event highlighted the Diversity Charter Luxembourg, a national commitment text promoting diversity and inclusion, and unveiled the program for Diversity Day 2026. IMS, a leading non-profit for corporate responsibility, leads the Charter project, which boasts over 325 signatories.
Inspiring More Sustainability (IMS) Luxembourg recently hosted a networking event and workshop in Luxembourg-Ville to spotlight the Diversity Charter Luxembourg. The event, held on January 20, 2026, reviewed the successes of Diversity Day 2025 and unveiled the upcoming program for Diversity Day 2026, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion in the Grand Duchy.
India's University Grants Commission (UGC) has notified new regulations, the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, to combat caste-based discrimination in universities and colleges. These rules mandate equity committees, 24-hour helplines, and strict timelines for addressing complaints, with penalties for non-compliance.
The Ukrainian Red Cross, in collaboration with the Austrian Red Cross, has launched applications for the second cohort of the REDpreneur Women Programme. This initiative supports Ukrainian women entrepreneurs in developing innovative and socially oriented businesses, offering training, mentorship, and funding to contribute to Ukraine's economic recovery. The application deadline is February 12, 2026.
An EU-backed campaign, 'Right to be healthy', was launched in Moldova in December 2025 to foster healthy lifestyles, regular medical check-ups, and responsible health attitudes among adolescents aged 15-19. The initiative involves webinars, master classes, and a video competition.
Nearly 60 women lawmakers in Japan, including Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, have submitted a petition demanding more toilet facilities in the parliament building. The move highlights the disparity between increased female representation and outdated infrastructure, with only one two-cubicle restroom available for 72 women near the main plenary hall.
Authorities in Tijuana, Mexico, are investigating two femicides reported on December 29, 2025. Three individuals have been arrested in connection with one of the cases, as Baja California authorities continue their efforts to address gender-based violence in the region.
Media personality and businesswoman Lelo Tabane, known as Lelo N, has launched the WOW Africa 50 Women Honours Circle in South Africa. This initiative aims to celebrate and empower African women in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship, fostering collaboration and wealth creation across the continent. An inaugural event is set for March 7, 2026, in Sandton.
The Luxembourg Army is set to launch a significant recruitment drive in 2026, aiming to attract more motivated women and men to bolster its ranks. This initiative comes as the army faces increasing demands due to a deteriorated international security environment and new NATO capability objectives. Measures include substantial pay raises and enhanced career opportunities to meet the goal of recruiting hundreds of new soldiers.
Österreichs SPÖ-Frauenministerin Eva-Maria Holzleitner sieht sich mit Kritik konfrontiert, nachdem ihr Ministerium 118.000 Euro für eine achtteilige Podcastserie mit 'Der Standard' zu den Themen Wissenschaft, Forschung und Frauen ausgegeben hat. Die FPÖ wirft der Ministerin 'Steuergeld-Verschwendung' vor.
The Multifunctional Social Services Center in Copceac, Gagauzia, Moldova, has officially opened its doors to beneficiaries. Renovated with over €86,000 from the European Union and UNDP through the 'Mayors for Economic Growth' initiative, the center offers a social canteen, laundry, and distribution point for donated goods, with a capacity for approximately 100 people daily.
