Europe
Germany takes steps to criminalise bestiality
Germany’s parliament is considering making bestiality illegal, over forty years since it was made legal. The bill aims to qualify current legislation which makes it illegal to engage sexually with an animal if it suffers ‘significant injury’ as a result. Hans-Michael Goldmann, head of the parliamentary committee, said “With this explicit ban, it will be easier to impose penalties and to improve animal protection.” The proposed fine is up to 25,000 Euros. However, some have opposed the bill, saying animals are good at letting individuals aware if they do not want to engage. Michael Kiok, the head of a pro-bestiality pressure group, said “It is unthinkable that any sexual act with an animal is punished without proof that the animal has come to any harm.” Adding, “We see animals as partners and not as a means of gratification. We don’t force them to do anything. Animals are much easier to understand than women.” A final vote is due on the 14th December.
Pussy Riot: Court rules videos too extreme for Internet
A Russian court has ruled that videos made by the punk band ‘Pussy Riot’, are ‘extremist’ and are subsequently banned. The band’s websites have also been banned. After the ruling and talking of the videos, the judge said in a statement, ” has elements of extremism, in particular there are words and actions which humiliate various social groups based on their religion”. The black list currently has 1500 items and is held by the Russian Justice Ministry. Two out of three of the band members are currently serving two years in prison.
Middle East and North Africa
Airport shut down in Syria fighting
Flights have been suspended near Damascus, as fighting has flared up on a main road leading to the capital’s airport. According to rebel groups, mortars had been fired at the runway as clashes with government forces erupted in the rebel stronghold. The area is often a target for government forces, but the according to a UK based NGO the region hasn’t seen such intense fighting. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the intensity of the fighting was in the suburb of Babila, approximately 17 miles from the city. Yesterday, 34 people will killed in two separate car bombs.
Latin America
Chavez back to Cuba for healthcare
Hugo Chavez has confirmed his landing in Cuba, to get healthcare following a “tough electoral campaign”. The Venezuelan President was cleared of Cancer in May, following a series of cancer treatment at the same Cuban hospital. In a letter written to the General Assembly, Mr. Chavez explains his due absence as non-descript illness, making no reference to his cancer returning. The opposition have called for the nature of his healthcare to be made transparent in the interests of the public. A spokesman said, “This secrecy always leaves doubts about how much truth there is in the government’s statements.” The letter read, “Six months after I had the last session of radiotherapy, I have been advised to begin a new special treatment, with several sessions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and physiotherapy.”
About the Author
