Serbia to offer cash to those who get Covid vaccine

13 Sept 09:14 Key points summarised by AI

Serbia's president announced a pioneering scheme to pay citizens 3,000 dinars ($30) for receiving a COVID-19 vaccine by May 31st.
This initiative seeks to re-energize the country's vaccination drive, which has slowed after initially vaccinating 1.3 million people, making Serbia potentially the first in the world to offer cash-for-jabs.
The government will also withhold paid leave for unvaccinated public employees who contract the virus, further incentivizing vaccination.
Experts acknowledge the unique approach but warn that monetary incentives could be a double-edged sword, potentially fostering distrust among some citizens despite boosting numbers.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

19 Oct 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.