September 2021 Current Events: World News
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The world is a very busy place, and it's hard to stay on top of everything. Infoplease has got you covered. Here are the world news events you need to know so far for September 2021:
- Prison Riot in Ecuador
- Elections Continue Around the World
- Coronavirus Updates (5)
- Bombing in Somalia
- Major Elections Around the World
- Shooting at Russian University
- Women’s Rights Challenged in Afghanistan
- Coronavirus Updates (4)
- Missiles Launched from Both North and South Korea
- Resistance Group Stand Up to Taliban
- Coronavirus Updates (3)
- New Government Announced in Lebanon
- Apparent Coup in Guinea
- The Taliban Continue to Advance
- Coronavirus Updates
- Terrorist Attack in New Zealand
- Afghanistan on the Verge of Economic Collapse
- Coronavirus Updates
Prison Riot in Ecuador
Photo Source: AP Photo/Jose Sanchez
On Tuesday, September 28, a prison riot in Ecuador left at least 116 people dead and 80 more wounded. The Litoral Penitentiary is located just outside the city of Guayaquil. It took hours for the prison to be secured, and even longer for bodies to be recovered and identified. The massacre was caused by an alleged drug war occurring between gangs inside the prison. Families of inmates rushed to the scene, desperate for information. Many were left in the dark and only able to identify loved ones from footage and photos that appeared on the news. In response, the government has instituted a 60 day state of emergency for all Ecuador prisons.
Source: BBC
Check out some facts and news articles on Ecuador.
Elections Continue Around the World
Photo Source: Carl Court/Pool Photo via AP
On Monday, September 27, various elections took place around the world. Iceland briefly believed it had made history by electing a majority of female candidates for parliament. However, a recount showed that 30 of the 63 seats were actually won by females. No European country has broken the 50% threshold.[1] Germany’s controversial election finally came to an end that same day. Some of the preliminary official results show the Social Democratic Party as the winner of most seats. Merkel’s successor has not been decided yet. The coalition deal must be negotiated first.[2] Elsewhere, in Switzerland, two thirds of voters voted to approve same-sex marriage in the referendum. Switzerland is one of the last countries in western Europe to legalize same-sex marriage.[3] On Wednesday, September 28, Fumio Kishida was elected as the new leader of Japan. The country’s Liberal Democratic Party (LPD) is currently the ruling party, and their vote has cleared the way for Kishida to become Japan’s next Prime Minister. Parliament will officially convene in October.[4]
Source: [1]BBC [2]CNN [3]BBC [4]CNN
Learn more about the Liberal Democratic Party.
Coronavirus Updates (5)
Photo Source: AP Photo/Bruna Prado
On Tuesday, September 28, Russia reported its worst single-day death toll since the Covid pandemic began. In the past 24 hours, there were 852 coronavirus related deaths. Russia only has about 50 million people with at least one dose of the vaccine. The country has reported the seventh highest numbers worldwide.[1] On Wednesday, September 29, a whistleblowers’ lawyer told the Senate that a Brazilian hospital chain is guilty of hiding the number of Covid-19 deaths. At least 9 people died at the chain, but their cause of death, presumably Covid, was allegedly altered on the paperwork. The hospital has refuted all allegations.[2] On Thursday, September 30, vaccine passports were reinstated in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, causing much unrest in the country. A local judge had suspended them for just one day, claiming it was too divisive. Brazil’s Supreme Court quickly overruled this decision. Brazil has the second highest death toll, just behind the US, with over half a million deaths.[3]
Source: [1]CNN [2]CNN [3]CNN
Check out some more Covid resources.
Bombing in Somalia
Photo Source: AP Photo/Farah Abdi Warsameh
On Saturday, September 25, at least seven people were killed after a suicide bombing near the presidential palace in Somalia. At least 8 other people were injured by the suicide car bomb. Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack in a short statement. The car was stopped by security to be cleared before entrance, but the bomb went off before security got much further. Seven cars and three rickshaws were destroyed by the explosion.
Source: BBC
Learn more about Somalia.
Major Elections Around the World
Photo Source: Thilo Schmuelgen/Pool via AP
On Saturday, September 25, the polls in Germany remained unusually close. As of now, the results are much too close to call. Chancellor Merkel has announced her support for center-right candidate Armin Laschet. The SPD party’s candidate, Olaf Scholz, is slightly further ahead.[1] The European Commission has accused Russia of trying to interfere with the election. It has stated that it’s witnessed cyberattacks from Russian forces.[2] Elsewhere, in Iceland, people took to the polls to vote a record nine parties into parliament. This choice could make it very difficult for the country to reach common ground in many situations. The Left-Green movement has been in control since 2017, but is expected to lose some support this time around. Climate change and taxation remain major issues for Icelandic voters.[3]
Source: [1]BBC [2]CNN [3]CNN
Learn more about elections in Germany.
Shooting at Russian University
Photo Source: AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky
On Monday, September 20, at least 8 students were killed and many more wounded after a shooting at a university in Perm, Russia. The suspect entered the Perm State University campus and began shooting according to reports. Students and teachers locked themselves in classrooms as they attempted to take cover. The suspect allegedly resisted law enforcement, obtaining some injuries before be detained. An investigation is ongoing.
Source: CNN
Women’s Rights Challenged in Afghanistan
Photo Source: AP Photo/Bernat Armangue
On Sunday, September 19, Kabul’s city government told all female employees to stay home, with the acting mayor stating that the only job they can do is clean the toilets. Only women whose “jobs cannot be done by men” have been requested to show up to work. About 27% of the workers were women, most of whom are now out of jobs. Women’s rights activists are still protesting throughout the area.[1] That same day, it was reported that many female judges went into hiding, fearing retaliation from the men they had put behind bars. Nearly 250 women judges have been warned not to show up to work. When they came back into power, the Taliban released hundreds of prisoners, something the female judges now fear.[2] On Wednesday, September 22, the Taliban asked to address world leaders at the UN summit. The UN committee is set to vote on it soon, but it is unlikely that the request will be approved.[3] On Saturday, September 25, the Taliban put the bodies of alleged kidnappers on display in Herat as a warning. Shootouts from kidnappings have not been uncommon since the Taliban has come to power.[4]
Source: [1]CNN [2]CNN [3]BBC [4]CNN
Learn more about Afghanistan.
Coronavirus Updates (4)
Photo Source: Bianca De Marchi/Pool Photo via AP
On Tuesday, September 21, the US announced that it will ease travel restrictions for fully vaccinated passengers in the EU and UK. Starting in November, fully vaccinated travellers will be able to enter the US. European allies have been demanding restrictions be lifted for quite some time, and the move will allow people to reunite with loved ones.[1] On Wednesday, September 22, Australia’s tourism minister stated that the country is set to open its borders by Christmas at the latest. The country has been running an “It’s Our Best Shot for Travel” campaign to promote its vaccine rollout.[2] On Wednesday, September 22, Germans were left in shock after news about a cashier’s murder made the news. The 20-year-old victim was killed after a patron refused to put on a mask. Politicians in Germany have stated that they will have no tolerance for such acts.[3] On Wednesday, September 22, it was reported that the Brazilian Health Minister tested positive for Covid-19 while in New York for the UN meeting. He is doing well and other members of the delegation have not tested positive.[4]
Source: [1]BBC [2]CNN [3]CNN [4]CNN
Check out some more Covid resources.
Missiles Launched from Both North and South Korea
Photo Source: AP Photo/Lee Jin-man
On Wednesday, September 15, both North and South Korea tested missiles, exacerbating tensions that already exist. Japan’s Coast Guard reported two missiles falling into the water after being launched by North Korea. Nearly 3 hours later, Seoul launched its own test. South Korea has claimed its missile launch reached its target, but it has refused to say much more on it. South Korea, in an attempt to become more independent from the US, has rapidly increased its missile production.
Source: CNN
Learn more about North Korea.
Coronavirus Updates
Photo Source: AP Photo/Felipe Dana
On Monday, September 13, the BBC reported that at least 20 civilians have been killed by the Taliban in battles over control. Resistance groups in Panjshir continue to fight the Taliban for control of the area, resulting in violence and death. Despite the growing deaths, resistance groups have vowed to fight on.[1] On Monday, September 13, the first Pakistan International Airport landed in Kabul since foreign troops withdrew. The flight was a special flight designed to create “goodwill” amongst the people of both countries. This flight gives hope that some foreign nationals will still be able to leave Afghanistan if they wish.[2] On Monday, September 13, Afghan women went viral after posting pictures of themselves in colorful traditional dresses in protest of the Taliban’s new law requiring black hijabs in schools. The Taliban has also announced that classrooms will be segregated by gender.[3] On Wednesday, September 15, the Taliban announced that it’s giving Kandahar residents three days to leave their homes. Protesters marched in front of the governor’s office after this was announced. Protesters are stating that they have yet to be given a reason for the evacuation order. Many of the residents have very little money, and they cannot afford to move from their homes.[4] On Thursday, September 16, Dutch Foreign Minister Sigrid Kaag announced her resignation after backlash revolving around the Afghanistan crisis. Kaag’s handling of the evacuation operation has been criticized due to the amount of people left behind.[5] On Friday, September 17, the US military admitted it had made a mistake, killing 10 innocent people in the airstrike that occurred in August. The civilians, seven of whom were children, were hit after the military targeted the wrong vehicle. General McKenzie offered an apology to the family of the victims, taking full responsibility for the mistake.[6] On Friday, September 17, the Taliban reopened secondary schools, but only allowed male students and male teachers to enter. A statement released by the Taliban made no mention of allowing women and girls back into the building, despite the group’s earlier promise of allowing women rights. That same day, it was reported that the Taliban shut down the women’s affair ministry, instead replacing it with a department that previously enforced strict religious doctrines.[7]
Source: [1]BBC [2]CNN [3]CNN [4]CNN [5]CNN [6]CNN [7]BBC
Learn more about the history of Afghanistan.
Coronavirus Updates (3)
Photo Source: AP Photo/Hau Dinh
On Monday, September 13, the CDC added some more island destinations—Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Mauritius, Albania and Serbia—to the level 4 Extremely High-Risk Category. The CDC also moved Afghanistan to this level. The CDC recommends anyone planning to travel to these areas be fully vaccinated first.[1] On Monday, September 13, South Africa decreased some Covid restrictions, but mulled over the decision to require vaccine passports. The country has enough vaccines for all adults, and many have received at least one dose. The lowered restrictions will be reevaluated in a few weeks.[2] On Thursday, September 16, Trinidad and Tobago’s Health Minister released a statement labeling Nicki Minaj’s tweet as false. Minaj tweeted that her cousin in Trinidad refuses to get the vaccine because his friend had swollen testicles after receiving the vaccine and became impotent. Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh said no such reports have been verified. With her 22.6 million followers, Minaj’s tweet gained international backlash.[3] On Friday, September 17, Italy announced that it will mandate Covid “green passes” for all workers, requiring all workers to show proof of a vaccine or negative test before working. The rule will take effect October 17 in an attempt to increase the rate of vaccinated people. Italy currently has about a 75% vaccination rate.[4] On Saturday, September 18, Vietnam approved the Cuban vaccine Abdala. The ruling comes as Vietnam is grappling with the Delta Variant. With only 6.35 of the Vietnamese population vaccinated, officials hope this eighth approved vaccine will help bring up rates. Many of the deaths and hospitalizations in Vietnam have been due to the Delta Variant.[5]
Source: [1]CNN [2]CNN [3]CNN [4]CNN [5]CNN
Check out some more Covid resources.
New Government Announced in Lebanon
Photo Source: Dalati Nohra/Lebanese Official Government via AP
On Friday, September 10, a new government was finally announced in Lebanon, over one year after the previous government resigned due to the Beirut explosion. Lebanon’s richest man, Najib Mikati, was named Prime Minister. He has held the position twice before. Mikati put an end to the political paralysis as he appointed new cabinet members. The country has been facing a deepening crisis, with unemployment and inflation rates through the roof. The currency has lost so much value, and fuel and medicine are in short supply. Nearly two years of protests have plagued the government, as well.
Source: BBC
Learn more about Lebanon.
Apparent Coup in Guinea
Photo Source: AP Photo/ Sunday Alamba
On Monday, September 6, a Guinean military official broadcast an announcement stating that the constitution had been dissolved in an apparent coup. President Alpha Conde was reportedly arrested, as officials stated that politics will no longer be entrusted to just one man but to the people. The election Conde won was heavily disputed. Now, the location of the 83-year-old is unknown. Not only has the constitution been suspended as a consequence of the coup, but so has the government, and all land and air borders have been temporarily closed. The military has stated that no harm should come to Conde and they intend to take care of him. However, gunfire was heard during the beginning of the coup.
Source: BBC
The Taliban Continue to Advance
Photo Source: AP Photo/Bernat Armangue
On Sunday, September 5, Republican House member Michael McCaul accused Taliban members from preventing planes from leaving Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport. The flights allegedly have Americans and Afghan allies aboard; however, the Taliban has denied these claims and called it propaganda. McCaul is adamant, nevertheless, that there are still 6 planes stranded. Officials in the area have stated that the number is probably higher than 6. Many believe the Taliban are waiting for negotiations and hoping for something in exchange.[1] On Monday, September 6, the Taliban claimed that it is now in control of Panjshir. However, resistance fighters in the area are disputing this claim, as they are still fighting. The resistance group has stated that it is open to peace talks.[2] On Tuesday, September 7, the Taliban announced its new government. Many spots were filled by veterans who had fought in the 20-year war on terror. Despite its promise of an inclusive government, the Taliban did not appoint any women or previous leaders to governmental positions. Along with naming ex-Guantanamo detainees and wanted men to the new government, the Taliban named Mohammad Hassan Akhund as the new Prime Minister.[3] The next day, resistance groups urged international organizations to not recognize the new government. The US has already criticized the new government, stating it was concerned with the choices who have attacked US forces.[4] On Friday, September 10, the UN officially condemned the Taliban’s violent attacks against those protesting. At least four people were killed by the Taliban during a protest the previous day. Despite the rise in violence, demonstrators have continued to protest in the streets. The Taliban are reportedly using batons, whips, and live ammunition against the protesters. Most of the protests have been peaceful, sparking more concern regarding the Taliban’s violent response.[5] On Friday, September 10, the second Qatar Airways passenger flight was able to leave Kabul. The flight was carrying 158 passengers of multiple nationalities. Officials are still working to evacuate people who wish to leave and have the proper paperwork; however, it is up to those individuals to make their wishes known.[6]
Source: [1]BBC [2]BBC [3]CNN [4]BBC [5]BBC [6]CNN
Learn more about the Taliban.
Coronavirus Updates
Photo Source: AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa
On Tuesday, September 7, the CDC added two more island destinations to the Covid Extremely High-Risk List: Jamaica and Sri Lanka. Both have very slow vaccine rollouts, contributing to the new Level 4 Risk rating. The CDC added ten more destinations to the Level 3 High-Risk list.[1] On Wednesday, September 8, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was pelted with gravel after calling a group and anti-vaxx mob during his campaign trail. He stated he will continue to campaign despite the increase of aggressive protests.[2] On Friday, September 10, Cuba officially began vaccinating children as young as two against Covid-19. The country announced its homegrown vaccine was safe for children in September. It is working on vaccinating children so they can go back to school. Over 4 million Cubans have been vaccinated thus far.[3]
Source: [1]CNN [2]CNN [3]CNN
Check out some more Covid resources.
Terrorist Attack in New Zealand
Photo Source: AP Photo/Brett Phibbs
On Friday, September 3, an ISIS supporter was shot dead in a New Lynn supermarket after stabbing and injuring at least 6 people. The Sri Lankan man was a “known threat,” having been released from jail just two months prior. He was allegedly under surveillance by multiple government agencies, grabbing the knife in the store. It took police 60 seconds to shoot him dead once the attack started.[1] On Saturday, September 4, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern vowed that she plans to make tighten anti-terrorism laws. The changes should be seen by the end of September.[2]
Source: [1]CNN [2]BBC
Learn more about the New Zealand Department of State.
Afghanistan on the Verge of Economic Collapse
Photo Source: AP Photo/Wali Sabawoon
On Wednesday, September 1, as the Taliban continued to celebrate its success, the top US official stated that he believes it is still a “ruthless group” that may not change. The Taliban has promised to rule differently this time, but so far, promises have not been kept.[1] As the group waits to name a new government, some glaring issues have come to a head. One of which is that the country itself has changed quite a bit since the Taliban’s last rule. Many Taliban members aren’t familiar with the more current way of life. One of the leading concerns is in regards to banks, which have been closed for weeks.[2] On Friday, September 3, it was reported that women in Afghanistan were asked where their male escorts were. Women are now forced to bring their husbands to Taliban checkpoints, despite the previous promise that women would have rights this time around.[3] In protest, the Women’s Political Participation Network marched down the streets of Kabul in a small demonstration. The women were chanting slogans and calling for the government to step in and give them constitutional rights. The Taliban is still attempting to form a new government, but continues to claim women will have a place in society.[4]
Source: [1]BBC [2]CNN [3]BBC [4]CNN
Learn more about Afghanistan under the Taliban rule.
Coronavirus Updates
Photo Source: STRF/STAR MAX/IPx 2021 8/25/21
On Friday, September 3, South Africa announced it is suspending the shipment of Johnson & Johnson vaccinations set to go to Europe. The shipments will now stay in Africa and be distributed throughout the continent. Only 3% of Africa’s 1 billion people have been vaccinated, making this decision quite important. The J&J vaccine is especially ideal for the continent because it only requires one dose, allowing flexibility and ease for the continent.[1] On Friday, September 3, the EU officially advised that the 27 countries drop the US from its safe list, which would no longer allow nonessential travel. A few countries have chosen to ignore the advice since their economies rely on tourism. Some countries are requiring visitors to be fully vaccinated, quarantine for 10 days upon entry, and provide a negative Covid test.[2]
Source: [1]CNN [2]CNN
Check out some more Covid resources.
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