Q. Recently, which European country became the first to recognize ‘ecocide’ as a national as well as an international crime?
Answer: Belgium
Notes: Belgium has made history as the first European country to designate 'ecocide' as a national and international crime, defining it as deliberate or reckless acts leading to substantial, widespread, or long-term environmental harm. Coined by American biologist Arthur Galston in 1970, ecocide remains unrecognized as an offense in India. This bold move positions Belgium at the forefront of environmental protection, emphasizing accountability for actions causing significant ecological damage.