International Current Affairs MCQs

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The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution championing safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems in alignment with sustainable development goals. It stresses human rights in AI development and recognizes its potential for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Marking the first Assembly involvement in regulating AI, it urges against AI systems violating human rights and advocates for regulatory frameworks. Led by the US, the resolution garnered support from over 120 Member States.

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Simon Harris, 37, became the youngest Prime Minister (Taoiseach) of Ireland on April 9, 2024, succeeding Leo Varadkar. The Prime Minister is elected by members of the Dáil, the lower house of Ireland’s bicameral parliament, the Oireachtas. The Dáil comprises 158 directly elected members. Ireland operates as a parliamentary democracy with the President as Head of State, but executive power rests with the Prime Minister.

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Sweden, the 38th nation, joins the Artemis Accords initiated by NASA in 2020, along with seven other founding members. The accords, based on the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, aims to govern civil space exploration in the 21st century. It emphasizes peaceful space cooperation and signifies a multilateral approach to space diplomacy. India is also a signatory to the accords, highlighting global participation in the endeavor.

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The Higher School of Economics in Russia and the University of Delhi signed a strategic cooperation agreement, establishing a joint research hub. New Delhi hosted the Indo-Russian Education Summit, a landmark event in bilateral relations, with 60 Russian universities participating from various regions. The summit aims to enhance educational ties and foster collaboration between India and Russia, marking a significant milestone in their partnership.

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The United Kingdom has passed the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill, permitting the deportation of some asylum-seekers to Rwanda to deter illegal entry via small boats. Proposed by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2022, the bill follows a treaty enhancing migrant protections. Flights deporting migrants for processing in Rwanda are set to commence in 10 to 12 weeks, marking a significant step in UK immigration policy.

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Sri Lanka is considering lifting vehicle import restrictions to stimulate economic growth, potentially by late 2024 or early 2025. Enforced in response to economic turmoil in 2022, the move aligns with IMF revenue targets but could strain foreign exchange reserves by $800 million. President Wickremasinghe’s committee recommendations are pivotal. Despite its severe economic downturn, the Sri Lankan rupee is stabilizing, hinting at positive developments in its value.

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Iraq’s parliament recently passed a law criminalizing same-sex relationships, imposing up to 15 years in prison for such acts. Promoting homosexuality or prostitution can lead to a minimum of seven years behind bars. Additionally, changing one’s biological gender or dressing in an effeminate manner can result in one to three years of imprisonment. The legislation was supported by conservative Shi’ite Muslim parties, aiming to uphold religious values and protect Iraqi society from moral decay.

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China demands removal of the Sierra Madre ship, rejected by the Philippines. Commissioned in 1944 for WWII, it served in Vietnam before being transferred to the Philippines in 1976. It was positioned deliberately in 1999 at Second Thomas Shoal, part of the disputed Spratly Islands, to reinforce territorial claims. China’s ships and water cannons threaten supply boats in the area. Removal risks weakening Philippines’ claims and bolstering Chinese presence.

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Humza Yousaf resigned as Scotland’s first minister and leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) after 13 months in office, amidst political turmoil. His leadership faced criticism following the SNP’s failed coalition with the Scottish Greens, leading to upcoming no-confidence motions.

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The Old Kijabe Dam burst in southern Kenya, causing deadly floods attributed to climate change and El Nino. At least 42 people died in the dam breach near Kenya’s Rift Valley town. The Great Rift Valley, part of the East African Rift System, spans 4,000 miles across multiple countries, including Kenya. It’s a significant geological feature, stretching from Jordan to Mozambique’s coast, impacting regions like Eritrea, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Uganda.