October 31, 2025
Hello dear Good News community,
Around the world, it’s witching hour again today – Halloween! 🎃 We’re having a little ghost party too, of course in family costumes… with our dog. Interestingly, getting a little scared—like watching horror movies—can actually be good for your mental health: the brain learns to cope with fear and threats. 👻 Enjoy the spooky fun, all you Halloween fans!
Enjoy reading, Selina
NEWS OF THE DAY
France introduces “Yes Means Yes” law
France has overhauled its sexual assault laws: from now on, the principle “Yes Means Yes” applies. Any sexual activity without clear consent is considered rape. The law follows intense debates after the Avignon abuse case and aims to provide stronger protection for victims. Source: LE MONDE
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EU Court ruling strengthens oversight of fossil fuel projects
The European Court of Human Rights has ruled that future oil and gas projects must assess their global climate impact before new drilling licenses are approved. In the case Greenpeace Nordic & Co. vs. Norway, the issue was licenses for oil extraction in the Barents Sea. From now on, governments can no longer approve such projects without judicial oversight. Source: EURONEWS
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Deforestation in Brazil drops to record low
Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon has dropped to its lowest level since 2014. According to the government’s Inpe Institute, deforestation fell by 11 percent between August 2024 and July 2025. Brazilian President Lula da Silva aims to end all deforestation by 2030. Source: REUTERS
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Census in South Korea records queer couples for the first time
A census is currently taking place in South Korea. For the first time, same-sex couples are being counted. According to Human Rights Watch, this is an important step for LGBTQ rights. Same-sex marriage remains illegal in the conservative country. Source: TIME
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Tips: How to choose an eco-friendly laptop
Looking for a new laptop—but want it to be as eco-friendly as possible? According to the Öko-Institut, laptops account for around 62 kilograms of CO₂ per person per year. But with the right choice, you can significantly reduce this footprint. New recommendations show what to look for when buying a sustainable device. Source: RESET
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Horror movies can be good for your mental health
Horror movies can actually strengthen your mental health. According to psychologist Colton Scrivner from Arizona State University, they act as a training ground for the brain, helping us cope with threats, stress, and fear. Studies even suggest that horror can have therapeutic effects. Source: BBC
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ON OUR OWN BEHALF
1 day left – can we hit $2,000?
Thanks to your amazing support, we’ve already surpassed our October goal – a huge thank-you to our 264 supporters! 🥰 We’re just about €351 away from reaching the $2,000 mark. Every euro goes right back into our work. Thank you so much — your Good News team 🩷
(Opens in a new window)❣️ Thank you to all 264 supporters in october!
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Best regards,
Bianca Kriel & Selina Mahoche
Date
October 31, 2025