Here are five things you should know at the end of this week:
In Luxembourg, 50% of first-time driving test candidates fail, with neighboring countries like Germany, France, and Belgium having slightly lower rates.
High failure rate - Luxembourg sees half of its first-time driving test candidates failing, a significant percentage when contrasted with its neighboring countries. Germany, France, and Belgium have somewhat lower failure rates, standing at 40%, 42%, and 45%, respectively.
The discrepancies in these statistics suggest that there might be regional variations in driving test standards, preparatory training, or learner attitudes that impact the outcome.
Generational shift - The notably high failure rate in Luxembourg is attributed by experts to the distinct approach adopted by young candidates towards their driving licenses and mobility. This perspective implies that there might be a cultural or generational shift in Luxembourg where driving is not just viewed as a skill, but also as a broader concept tied to personal freedom, environmental considerations, or even urbanisation.
Ministerial response - In response to the stark statistics, Minister Bausch has expressed intentions to tackle the problem at its roots. By placing a stronger emphasis on risk awareness for learner drivers, the Ministry aims to instill a more profound understanding of the dangers and responsibilities associated with driving.
Furthermore, there is contemplation to increase the number of compulsory driving hours before candidates can take the practical exam, ensuring they are better prepared for the complexities of modern road traffic.
However, Bausch was quick to debunk a circulating notion: the idea that driving instructors are intentionally failing their students during tests.
The WHO has designated the Omicron subvariant EG.5, nicknamed “Eris”, a “variant of interest” due to its ability to evade immunity while primarily causing mild symptoms.
Global Covid-19 cases rose by 80% in the last month, yet deaths decreased by 57%, with concerns about the emergence of a more dangerous variant.
Luxembourg’s health authorities use wastewater data to monitor infections, showing no new EG.5 peaks and few daily Covid-positive cases.
EG.5 - This particular variant has raised eyebrows in the global health community because of its ability to potentially sidestep the immunity developed either through vaccination or previous infections. Despite this potential for immune evasion, a silver lining emerges as initial reports suggest that infections by this variant result predominantly in mild symptoms.
As the virus mutates, it is crucial to continue monitoring and studying such developments to ensure public health measures, treatments, and vaccine strategies remain effective.
Infections up, deaths down - The alarming 80% surge in global Covid-19 cases within the past month reiterates that the pandemic is far from over, and constant vigilance is required. This spike poses a dichotomy with the simultaneous 57% drop in deaths, which might indicate that while infections are rising, they might not be as lethal as earlier stages of the pandemic.
Several factors might be contributing to the case surge, such as increased summer gatherings, waning immunity from prior vaccinations or infections, and the introduction of new virus subvariants.
WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus’s warning about the potential emergence of an even more perilous variant serves as a reminder that continuous efforts are needed to prevent further escalations.
No surge in Luxembourg - Luxembourg’s Health Directorate relies on wastewater data as a key metric for tracking COVID-19 infections. This approach provides real-time insights into the virus’ prevalence in the community, capturing data even from asymptomatic individuals who might not get tested.
Recent analysis of this wastewater data indicates no significant surge attributable to the EG.5 variant. While daily Covid-positive cases in Luxembourg remain low, it is noteworthy that the majority of those hospitalised with the virus were admitted for reasons other than Covid.
This situation underscores the changing landscape of the pandemic and highlights the importance of multi-faceted monitoring methods.
Despite a rainy summer, Luxembourg City has seen a rise in visitors, many attracted to landmarks like the Grand Ducal palace, the historical casemates, and the ‘Gëlle Fra’ memorial.
The Luxembourg City Tourist Office (LCTO) offers various tours, including the popular Wenzel, Vauban, and City Promenade tours, as well as family-oriented visits to UNESCO heritage sites.
The majority of foreign tourists come from Germany, France, Holland, Spain, and Portugal, with some decrease in large groups from Asia and the USA.
Resilience - Luxembourg City has displayed resilience as a tourist destination this year, with an unexpected increase in visitors even during a less-than-ideal rainy summer season. Key attractions stand as testimony to the rich history and royal legacy of the region and the various iconic sites cater to history enthusiasts, those curious about royal lives, and tourists who are looking to experience the core essence of the city.
Popular tours - The LCTO has been proactive in promoting the capital’s rich heritage and diverse attractions. From the intricate pathways of the Wenzel and Vauban tours to the picturesque City Promenade, they ensure that visitors experience the depth and breadth of what Luxembourg has to offer.
Moreover, understanding the varied demographics of their visitors, they have crafted family-oriented tours which guide visitors through UNESCO heritage sites, seamlessly combining education with enjoyment. The tours, whether guided or self-guided, are designed to showcase the City’s multifaceted charm, be it through its architecture, history, or natural beauty.
International allure - While Luxembourg has traditionally been a favorite among European neighbors like Germany, France, Holland, Spain, and Portugal, its global appeal cannot be understated. Tour groups from Asia and the USA have frequently flocked to the City, indicating its global reputation as a must-visit destination.
However, there have been recent observations of a slight decrease in these larger international groups. Interestingly, one would anticipate that inclement weather conditions might impact tourist turnout negatively. Still, Luxembourg’s charm remains undeterred, with tourism statistics indicating that the rainy summer has not significantly affected the city’s allure to international visitors.
Herman Andaya, the head of Maui’s emergency management agency, resigned following criticism for not activating warning sirens during the Lahaina wildfire which killed at least 111 people.
Survivors expressed anger over a lack of official warnings and slow recovery efforts, leading Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green to order an investigation into the preparations for and response to the disaster.
US President Joe Biden is set to visit Maui, having previously declared a major disaster in Hawaii, but faced criticism from the Republican opposition for his response to the fires.
Agency head resigns - The deadly wildfire that swept through Lahaina in Maui had severe consequences for many of its residents, claiming at least 111 lives. Amidst the aftermath, Herman Andaya, who led Maui’s emergency management agency, found himself at the epicenter of public scrutiny and criticism.
The primary point of contention was his decision not to activate the island-wide warning sirens, which many believe could have given residents a timely warning. As the outcry grew, Andaya defended his decision, pointing out that the sirens were traditionally associated with tsunamis, and triggering them might have inadvertently led people towards the hills, and consequently, into the path of the fire.
Nevertheless, the weight of the tragedy and public dissent culminated in his resignation, which was promptly accepted by Mayor Richard Bissen.
Investigation launched - The aftermath of the Lahaina wildfire was not only characterised by loss and grief, but also by the survivors’ anguish over the perceived lack of official warnings. To make matters worse, the usual channels of communication like mobile networks and electricity were incapacitated during the fire.
Many survivors recounted harrowing tales of becoming aware of the fire only when it reached their street, a clear indication of the communication breakdown. The growing frustration also extended to the slow government aid and body recovery process post-disaster.
Recognizing the need for answers and accountability, Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green took the initiative to order a probe, which will be conducted by an independent body. This investigation aims to delve into the preparations and response to the tragedy, potentially revealing any lapses and drawing lessons for the future.
Questionable response from the President - In the wake of the devastating wildfire, President Joe Biden declared Hawaii a major disaster zone. This status enabled the rapid deployment of federal emergency assistance to aid the stricken state. As a further gesture of solidarity and to personally oversee the relief efforts, President Biden, along with the First Lady Jill Biden, is slated to visit Maui.
While this late move might be seen as a reassuring presence for many in Hawaii, the President has not been immune to criticism. People have been vocal in expressing their dissatisfaction with what they perceive as President Biden’s tepid response to the wildfire disaster.
Donald Trump was indicted in Georgia on charges of racketeering and election crimes after a two-year investigation.
Eighteen others, including Rudy Giuliani and Mark Meadows, were also indicted in relation to this case.
Fulton County prosecutor Fani Willis aims to proceed to trial within six months, with Trump criticizing the indictment’s timing and process.
Yet another indictment - Following an extensive two-year investigation in Georgia, former US President Donald Trump faces charges that span from racketeering to election-related crimes. This investigation delves deep into his endeavors to overturn the 2020 election outcome, where Joe Biden was declared the winner. This case, which utilises laws that are traditionally employed against organized crime, is unprecedented and might lead to the first-ever televised trial of a former U.S. president.
18 individuals charged - The probe does not end with Trump as 18 additional individuals are caught in the legal web spun by this case. Prominent figures such as Rudy Giuliani, Trump’s former personal lawyer, and Mark Meadows, Trump’s last White House chief of staff, are among those indicted. These charges are rooted in their alleged roles and actions following the 2020 election, where there were efforts to pressure local legislators over the election results in Georgia.
Trial timeline - Fani Willis, the Fulton County prosecutor, is resolute in her pursuit of justice and hopes to push the case to trial within a relatively short time frame of six months. This urgency underscores the gravity of the charges and the historical importance of the case.
In retaliation, Trump has vocally criticized the indictment, highlighting its timing amidst his political endeavors and branding the process as both flawed and unconstitutional. However, Willis stands firm, emphasizing that her decisions are based on facts and law, devoid of partisanship.
Business & Tech - Intel Corporation has terminated a $5.4 billion deal to buy Tower Semiconductor in Israel after failing to get needed regulatory approval, the US chip maker announced Wednesday.
Science & Environment - In a landmark climate trial, a Montana court on Monday ruled in favor of a group of youths who accused the western US state of violating their rights to a clean environment.https://today.rtl.lu/news/world/a/2066108.html
Entertainment -Britney Spears and her model husband Sam Asghari are heading for a divorce after 14 months of marriage, US media reported -- the latest personal crisis for the troubled pop star.
Schueberfouer - An impressive 211 fairground vendors - many from Luxembourg, France and Germany - will be present at the 681st edition of the Schueberfouer.
Charity trip - A Luxembourgish man has completed an extraordinary cycle from Esch-sur-Alzette to Istanbul, covering a total distance of 2,858 kilometres on a Vël’Oh city bike for a good cause.https://today.rtl.lu/news/world/a/2066108.html
Temporary closure - Amid concerns from the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) about the Gare police station’s night closure on 11 to 12 August, Minister of Internal Security Henri Kox emphasised that the Verlorenkost HQ seamlessly ensured continued services.
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