5 things to know about Sanae Takaichi, Japan's first female prime minister

Iceland is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Women's Day Off protests, a significant milestone in the country's journey towards gender equality. With the World Economic Forum reporting that Iceland has closed the gender gap by over 90%, this event highlights the progress made, especially as women now hold every national leadership position. However, the President warns that challenges remain, reflecting a global feminist backlash. This anniversary serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for women's rights and the importance of solidarity in achieving equality.

National Geographic has unveiled its 'Best of the World' destinations for 2026, showcasing a diverse range of must-see locations from Japan to North Dakota. This list not only highlights exciting travel opportunities but also reflects the magazine's commitment to inspiring exploration and cultural appreciation. Editor-in-Chief Nathan Lump discusses the criteria for selection, emphasizing the importance of unique experiences that resonate with travelers. As we look ahead, these destinations promise to enrich our understanding of the world and encourage us to venture beyond our usual paths.

Sanae Takaichi has made history as Japan's first female Prime Minister, marking a significant milestone in the country's political landscape. However, her rise comes with complexities, as her nationalist stance raises questions about Japan's autonomy in the face of US influence. This development is crucial as it reflects ongoing debates about national identity and foreign policy in Japan, making it a pivotal moment for both domestic and international observers.

Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene has stepped down following a public disagreement with the prime minister regarding military budget increases. This resignation highlights the ongoing tensions within the government about defense spending, which is crucial for Lithuania's security amid regional threats. The situation raises questions about the stability of the government and its ability to address defense needs effectively.

Tomonobu Itagaki, the legendary creator of Ninja Gaiden and former head of Team Ninja, passed away last week at the age of 58. Known for his distinctive style and bold personality, Itagaki was a pivotal figure in the gaming industry, celebrated for his innovative approach to game design. His contributions not only shaped the Ninja Gaiden franchise but also influenced countless developers. This loss resonates deeply within the gaming community, as Itagaki's unique vision and passion for gaming will be sorely missed.

Japan's exports have shown a positive turnaround, increasing by 4.2% compared to last year, following a slight decline in August. This rebound is significant as it indicates a recovery in the country's trade performance, which is crucial for its economic growth. However, concerns about potential tariff risks still loom, which could impact future export stability.

The recent theft of jewellery valued at €88 million from the Louvre in Paris has raised significant concerns about security at one of the world's most famous museums. Authorities are urging the robbers not to dismantle the pieces, which could further complicate recovery efforts. This incident not only highlights the vulnerabilities in cultural heritage protection but also casts a shadow over the museum's reputation. Meanwhile, Japan's first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is grappling with economic challenges as she seeks to implement Abenomics-style policies amid rising inflation and a weakening yen, making her leadership crucial during these turbulent times.

Japan has made history by selecting its first female prime minister, a hardline nationalist who has broken the glass ceiling in a traditionally male-dominated political landscape. While this milestone is significant, she acknowledges that her ruling coalition is up against serious challenges. This development is important as it reflects a shift in leadership dynamics in Japan, but it also raises questions about the direction of policies under her administration.

In a troubling development, security adviser Matthew Collins revealed that the term 'enemy' was deliberately removed from a draft statement regarding a key witness in a China spy case under the Tory government in 2023. This raises serious concerns about transparency and the integrity of national security communications, highlighting potential political interference in sensitive matters.

A statue of Renée Zellweger as Bridget Jones is set to be unveiled in Leicester Square, London, on November 17. This bronze tribute honors the beloved character created by Helen Fielding, who has captured the hearts of audiences in four films. The statue will join other iconic cinema figures in the area, making it a significant addition to London's cultural landscape and a must-see for fans.

In an exciting weekend for football, Sheffield Wednesday faces a significant 12-point deduction, while Marcus Rashford expresses his desire to stay at Barcelona. Nottingham Forest, after a challenging eight-game winless streak, finally secured a victory against Porto, marking their first clean sheet in 21 games. This turnaround is crucial for the team's morale and could signal a positive shift in their season, making fans hopeful for future matches.

The World Health Organization has reported that the aid situation in Gaza remains dire, with little improvement since the ceasefire was established. This is concerning as it highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, where access to essential supplies is still severely limited. Additionally, a tragic incident occurred in the Aegean Sea, where 14 migrants lost their lives when their dinghy capsized near Bodrum, Turkey. These events underscore the urgent need for effective humanitarian assistance and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Plaid Cymru has achieved a significant victory in the Caerphilly byelection, with Lindsay Whittle winning the constituency from Labour amidst strong competition from Reform UK. This win is seen as a historic moment for Plaid Cymru, highlighting their growing influence in Welsh politics and signaling a shift in voter sentiment. It underscores the importance of adaptability in political parties, as those unable to evolve may face challenges in future elections.

Russia's Central Bank has decided to cut its key interest rate as the country prepares for new sanctions linked to President Vladimir Putin's ongoing war in Ukraine. This move comes at a time when the Russian economy is already facing challenges, and the anticipated sanctions could further exacerbate the situation. It's a significant development that highlights the ongoing economic pressures Russia is under due to international responses to its actions.