The State of Society
Kyrgyzstan’s Turmoil and Poverty: A Mountainous Nation’s Fight for Survival
The State of Society
Nestled in Central Asia’s rugged terrain, Kyrgyzstan—a landlocked, mountainous country—faces a stark reality: political instability and economic hardship have left millions trapped in poverty. In 2020, protests over corruption and unemployment culminated in the storming of the presidential palace, forcing President Sooronbay Jeenbekov to resign,more
Myanmar: A Nation of Contrasts—Rich Resources Amidst Shadow Economies
The State of Society
Myanmar, in Southeast Asia, evokes images of illicit activities like fraud and organ trafficking for many. Yet behind this grim reputation lies a land of immense potential: 680,000 square kilometers of diverse terrain—mountains, plateaus, and river deltas—fringed by 3,200 km of coastline, with the famed Golden Triangle within its borders.more
Yemen: A Nation Caught in the Crossfire of Conflict and Poverty
The State of Society
In the Arabian Peninsula, where six out of seven nations boast a per capita gross national product exceeding $20,000—with Qatar soaring to $80,000—Yemen stands as a tragic outlier. By 2024, its per capita GDP plummeted to a meager $486. What led to such a vast economic chasm within the same region? The answer lies in Yemen's complex and troubled present.more
Syria: From Cradle of Civilizations to War - Torn Ruins
The State of Society
Syria, a land steeped in ancient history, is the birthplace of Babylonian civilization, Mesopotamian culture, the Assyrian Empire, and the Phoenician Kingdom. Yet today, much of it lies in ruins, a casualty of prolonged conflict.more
Afghanistan: A Nation of Untapped Wealth Amidst Endless Turmoil
The State of Society
Afghanistan holds mineral resources valued at over $1 trillion, yet it remains one of the world’s poorest nations. This paradox stems from a history of conflict that has stifled development and trapped its people in poverty.more
Unusual Law in Churchill, Canada: Unlocked Car Doors for Polar Bear Safety
The State of Society
In the town of Churchill, Canada, an extraordinary law exists that prohibits locking car doors. This unique regulation is not without its purpose. Churchill is a place where humans coexist with a rather fearsome neighbor - the polar bear.more
Greece Bans High Heels at Ancient Sites
The State of Society
Greece, a nation renowned for its rich historical heritage and ancient archaeological sites, has implemented a unique regulation that prohibits visitors from wearing high heels at these precious locations. This rule aims to safeguard the integrity of its invaluable ancient ruins, which attract millions of tourists worldwide each year.more
Durian Consumption Banned in Some Public Spaces in Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia
The State of Society
Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia, despite being significant producers of the much - loved "king of fruits" - the durian, have imposed bans on consuming this unique fruit in certain public areas.more
Drivers Face Penalties in Germany for Running Out of Gas on Highways
The State of Society
In Germany, motorists need to be extra cautious about fuel levels while driving on highways. According to local regulations, running out of gas on the highway is considered an illegal act, and those found in such a situation may face significant penalties.more
Saudi Arabia's Lifting of Female Driving Ban
The State of Society
A: Historically, Saudi Arabia was the only country globally where women were not allowed to drive. This ban had been in place for a long time. The reasons were complex. Firstly, some related it to the country's conservative religious and cultural norms.more
Odd - Numbered Flowers Preferred in Ukraine: A Cultural Insight
The State of Society
In Ukraine, the act of giving flowers is steeped in rich cultural traditions and superstitions. When it comes to presenting flowers to a woman, one must be particularly mindful of the number of blooms in the bouquet.more
In Longyearbyen, Norway: Where Life and Death Are Regulated by Law
The State of Society
In the remote town of Longyearbyen, nestled within the Arctic Circle in Norway, an extraordinary set of regulations governs life and death. This unique approach stems from the town's specific geographical and environmental conditions, making it a place where the boundaries between the living and the deceased are strictly defined by law.more