France rocked by nationwide clashes, blazes and looting
Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests
China's population shrinks for first time in over 60 years
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China's population shrinks for first time in over 60 years
13 Sept 05:45Key points summarised by AI
China's population declined in 2022 for the first time in over six decades, shrinking by 850,000 people to 1.41 billion.
This demographic shift is primarily due to record-low birth rates and an aging workforce, despite the government ending the one-child policy in 2016 and allowing three children in 2021.
The population decline poses a significant threat to China's economic growth and public finances, as the country can no longer rely on a 'demographic dividend' for development.
While local authorities are implementing incentives like birth bonuses, experts stress the necessity of comprehensive policies to reduce child-raising costs and address women's job insecurity.
India is projected to surpass China as the world's most populous country this year, with China's population predicted to decline significantly, potentially reaching 587 million by 2100.
Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests
Today 12:56Key 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.