World

German flight attendants' union UFO may stage strikes against Lufthansa following failed arbitration talks. The union and airline have been in ongoing disputes over pay, pensions, and the union's legal status. UFO spokesman Nicoley Baublies indicated that industrial actions could occur at any time after the holiday period.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison sparked controversy by taking a pre-Christmas vacation to Hawaii while Australia battled widespread, catastrophic bushfires. Returning to significant criticism, Morrison acknowledged he would have made different choices with hindsight, as fires raged across multiple states, causing significant damage and loss of life.

World Bank President David Malpass highlights the urgent need for debt management in emerging economies. With global debt reaching $55 trillion in 2018, he emphasizes the importance of transparency and strategic investment to prevent a potential financial crisis.

Scissors are one of the most versatile tools ever invented, originating around 1500 BC in Egypt. Used in households, offices, schools, and more, these pivoted metal blades have evolved over centuries, with 16 different types now utilized globally for various purposes.(100 words)

Malaysia's former Prime Minister Najib Razak breaks silence on 1MDB scandal, denying direct involvement and claiming he was misled by financier Jho Low. The case involves allegations of stealing 42 million ringgit from SRC International, a 1MDB subsidiary.

Five major US technology companies are sued for alleged involvement in child labor practices in cobalt mining. The lawsuit, filed by International Rights Advocates, claims children were forced to work in dangerous mining conditions for minimal wages in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Samsung's top executive found guilty of systematically tracking union members' personal details and disrupting labor negotiations. The chairman and over 20 affiliates were implicated in attempting to suppress union activities and close subcontracting firms with active unions, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence.