Recent international research indicates that Australians are purchasing and reading fewer books compared to other countries, with only 64% buying a book and 80% reading one in the past year, below international averages. Despite the perception of high book prices in Australia, they are comparable to prices in other countries, and the reliance on cars for transportation may contribute to lower reading rates. Countries like France and Ireland actively support their reading cultures through measures like tax exemptions for artists and minimum delivery fees for online book orders, resulting in higher reading rates.
Full Article
Russia removes Taliban from banned terrorists list
Russia has lifted its 20-year ban on the Taliban, which it had previously designated as a terrorist organization, allowing for the potential normalization of relations with Afghanistan's current leadership. This decision comes as Russia seeks to combat security threats from Islamist militant groups, particularly after a deadly attack in March 2024 linked to ISIS-K. However, the Taliban's path to international recognition remains hindered by its policies on women's rights, as it imposes restrictions on education...
Read more
