Australia
In Queensland, dingoes can now be kept as pets. These animals, which originated in Australia about 4,000 years ago, may be reclassified by the state as domestic dogs, or Canis Familiaris. Currently, they are seen as invasive species, meaning they can’t be released, moved, or kept in captivity. The proposed change is generating mixed reactions. Wildlife advocates argue that dingoes serve an essential ecological function as Australia’s apex terrestrial predators, while others suggest that their growing wildness means they don’t adapt well to home life.
China
Beijing has reopened its secret garden, Qianlong Garden, after extensive renovations costing around $18 million. This restoration is part of the National Palace Museum’s preparations for its 100th anniversary. The garden, named after Emperor Qianlong, had been under construction for 25 years and features four interconnected courtyards across more than 645,000 square feet.
France
In Paris, the city is running a lottery allowing residents a unique opportunity: the chance to be buried in abandoned graves at three notable cemeteries. Winners can purchase and restore one of 30 graves located in Père Lachaise, Montmartre, and Montparnasse. Père Lachaise is the final resting place for famous figures like Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde, while Montparnasse holds the remains of writers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Montmartre Cemetery is home to painter Edgar Degas and others.
Canada
In a historic milestone, the Yukon Territory in Canada has elected more women than men to its Legislative Assembly for the first time. The recent elections saw 11 women and one non-binary MP chosen, representing 57% of the parliament. Lindsay Bramwell, interim executive director of Equal Voice, a charity promoting gender representation in politics, noted that this shift reflects community support for leaders who resonate with them.
India
Indian women have made history by winning the Women’s Cricket World Cup for the first time. Despite a rocky start, the team, featuring several players from small towns, achieved a decisive 52-point victory over South Africa on November 2.
