Brazil’s President Lula announces he will seek a fourth term in 2026

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the Brazilian president, has declared his intention to run for a historic fourth term in the upcoming presidential election at the age of 80. This announcement highlights his enduring political career and resilience, as he claims to possess as much energy as he did at 30. Lula's decision is significant not only for Brazil but also for Latin America, as it reflects the ongoing dynamics of political leadership in the region.

Brazil is gearing up for the 2027 World Cup by focusing on a youthful squad with an average age of just 24. After recently winning their ninth Copa América Femenina, the team is set to face England and Italy in preparation for the upcoming tournament. This proactive approach highlights Brazil's commitment to nurturing young talent and building a competitive team for the World Cup, which is just 20 months away. It's an exciting time for Brazilian football as they look to blend experience with youth.

In a compelling call to action, George Monbiot argues that without a written constitution, Reform UK could undermine the nation's democratic values. He reflects on his experiences in Brazil, where a clear constitutional framework has helped maintain political stability, contrasting it with the UK's lack of such a safeguard. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the risks posed by hard-right politics and the need for a fail-safe to protect democracy in the UK.

Netflix recently reported disappointing earnings, breaking a six-quarter streak of surpassing analysts' expectations. The company attributed this setback to a significant $600 million tax dispute with Brazil, despite seeing growth in its advertising business. This news is important as it highlights the challenges Netflix faces in international markets and the potential impact of regulatory issues on its financial performance.

Quebecers are spending millions annually on health care services in other provinces due to the lack of reciprocal billing agreements. This situation highlights a significant gap in Quebec's healthcare system, where residents are forced to seek medical attention outside their home province, leading to financial strain and potential delays in receiving care. It's a pressing issue that raises questions about the accessibility and efficiency of healthcare in Quebec.

The removal of a unique treehouse homeless encampment in Vernon is currently taking place, displacing its residents. This situation has drawn significant attention over the past few months, highlighting the ongoing challenges of homelessness in the area. The treehouse, which became a symbol of the community's struggle, raises important questions about how cities address homelessness and support vulnerable populations.

Plaid Cymru has achieved a significant victory in the Caerphilly byelection, successfully taking the constituency from Labour while fending off a strong challenge from Reform UK. This win is crucial as it underscores the party's push for Welsh independence and reflects shifting political dynamics in the region. The result not only highlights the growing support for Plaid Cymru but also signals potential changes in future elections, making it a pivotal moment for Welsh politics.

In a troubling development, the hunt for Dezi Freeman has intensified as a new taskforce takes charge, with Victoria police urging the public for assistance. The investigation into the alleged 'kill crew' charged with kidnap and murder is ongoing, highlighting the serious nature of the situation. This news is significant as it underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in solving violent crimes and the community's role in aiding these efforts.

The US and China are entering a new phase of competition as they explore deep-sea mining around the Cook Islands, where valuable polymetallic nodules are found. These nodules contain critical minerals essential for clean energy technologies and could significantly impact the future of industrial development. This contest highlights the strategic importance of ocean resources and raises questions about environmental sustainability and international cooperation in resource management.

Recent changes to British Columbia's graduated licence program are causing concern among critics who fear that the adjustments, aimed at reducing long wait times for testing, may lead to an increase in inexperienced drivers on the roads. This is significant because it raises questions about road safety and the potential risks associated with less skilled drivers navigating public streets.