The State of Society
ICAO Rules Russia Responsible for MH17 Crash
Odd - Numbered Flowers Preferred in Ukraine: A Cultural Insight
In Ukraine, the act of giving flowers is steeped in rich cultural traditions and superstitions. When it comes to presenting flowers to a woman, one must be particularly mindful of the number of blooms in the bouquet.
In Turkey, the 'OK' Gesture Isn’t Always Innocent
Travelers to Turkey, Brazil, and parts of the Middle East may be surprised to learn that the commonly used “OK” gesture—forming a circle with the thumb and index finger—carries a highly offensive meaning in these regions. Far from signifying approval or agreement, this hand signal is widely regarded as a crude and inappropriate gesture, often considered more vulgar than even the middle finger.
Large - scale Seizure of Illegal E - cigarettes at Saint - Ouen Flea Market in France
Large - scale Seizure of Illegal E - cigarettes at Saint - Ouen Flea Market in France
Major Power Outage Hits Spain, Portugal, and Parts of France
Recently, a large - scale power outage occurred in Spain, Portugal, and parts of France, plunging the affected areas into chaos. Trains came to a halt, bank ATMs and traffic lights malfunctioned, and the daily lives of millions were severely disrupted. This is one of the largest - scale power system failures in European history, triggering widespread concern.
USA: Times Square Ball Drop Ceremony
Every New Year's Eve, millions gather in Times Square for the iconic Ball Drop, a spellbinding spectacle that transforms the area into a pulsating hub of celebration. As the final minute before midnight ticks away, the crowd erupts in a thunderous countdown, and a massive crystal ball descends 43 meters down a mast. At the stroke of midnight, a ton of colorful confetti blankets the square, while strangers and loved ones alike share kisses to welcome the new year.
The Philippines: Round Fruits and Polka-Dot Attire
On New Year’s Eve, Filipino families adhere to a vibrant tradition centered on circular symbolism. A mandatory display of 12 round fruits—such as apples, grapes, and plums—takes center stage, each representing a month of the year. Shaped like coins, these fruits are believed to summon prosperity, with their roundness symbolizing the cyclical nature of good fortune and the hope for financial abundance.
Denmark's Parental Leave and Childcare Policies
Denmark has a comprehensive set of family - friendly policies. According to the Nordic Cooperation website, for co - habiting parents, each is entitled to 24 weeks of paid parental leave after the birth of a child. If the mother takes leave before the due date, she can enjoy an additional 4 weeks of paid leave. Moreover, salaried employees can transfer up to 13 weeks of leave to their partners.
