In Israel, some young people refuse to perform mandatory military service, a stance that has historically stigmatized them in a country where military training is seen as a rite of passage and a cornerstone of national identity. Following the October 7 attacks led by Hamas and with Israel in a state of war, these conscientious objectors, known as 'refuseniks,' are now being accused of treason. France 24 gathered testimonies from some of these individuals.

As Israel wages war against Hamas in Gaza in retaliation for the October 7 attacks, Israelis appear to have set aside their differences to support the government. However, with bombings against civilians in Gaza and hundreds of hostages in the hands of Islamist fighters, Israeli society remains deeply divided over the government's war response. Moderate or critical voices are being marginalized in both the streets and the political sphere.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Kyiv prosecutor general's office established a special section to investigate sexual crimes committed during the conflict. The report highlights that sexual violence affects not only women but also men, including soldiers and civilians. Reporters Luke Shrago and Mélina Huet document the prosecutors' efforts to build cases for potential international trials.

Iceland, renowned for its glaciers and the Northern Lights, is also a model for democratic and social systems. Founded in 930, its Parliament is one of the oldest globally. For over a decade, Iceland has led the World Economic Forum's annual gender equality report, and its Parliament is the most gender-balanced in Europe, with nearly 48% women elected in 2021.

Iceland, known for its natural wonders, is also recognized for its progressive gender equality and democratic institutions. The Icelandic Parliament, one of the oldest in the world, achieved near gender parity in 2021 with 48% female representation. The article explores how this small nation of 376,000 people has become a model for gender equality.

Iceland, known for its natural beauty, is also recognized for its democratic and social model, particularly in gender equality. The country has consistently topped the World Economic Forum's annual report on gender equality and boasts the most gender-balanced parliament in Europe, with nearly 48 percent of women elected in 2021. The article examines whether Iceland truly deserves its reputation as a gender equality paradise.

Following the retreat of Russian forces from Kharkiv, residents of the Saltivka neighborhood are beginning to rebuild their lives. The area, heavily bombed earlier in the year, saw most of its inhabitants flee, though some remained. France 24 revisited the area to document the progress and resilience of the survivors.

Two years after the devastating fire, Notre-Dame de Paris is still undergoing reconstruction. President Emmanuel Macron visited the site to review progress and set new goals. Despite challenges like lead particles, weather, and the COVID-19 pandemic, the restoration team aims to reopen the cathedral for worship by 2024. The project has already cost 165 million euros for consolidation, with significant work still ahead. The effort is supported by 833 million euros in global donations.

The article follows four women—Fabienne Boulard, a police major; Isabelle Steyer, a lawyer; Louise, a gynecology-obstetrics and forensic medicine intern; and Julie, an activist—who are dedicated to combating violence against women in France. It highlights their individual efforts, from police training and legal advocacy to medical support and public awareness campaigns, emphasizing the need for systemic change and comprehensive victim support.

Since the election of Brazil's far-right president Jair Bolsonaro, homophobic and transphobic attacks have surged, with a member of the LGBT+ community being murdered every 16 hours on average. This report follows four Brazilians who have fled to Portugal to escape persecution due to their sexuality or gender, sharing their personal stories and highlighting the dire situation for LGBT+ individuals in Brazil.

In the upcoming early general election in Spain, the far-right Vox party could enter the national parliament for the first time since the country's return to democracy in 1975. After gaining 12 seats in the Andalusian parliament last December, Vox's potential nationwide breakthrough is being closely watched.

Spain has prioritized the fight against domestic violence for over a decade, implementing key reforms such as specialist courts, support groups, and extensive media coverage. These measures aim to address and reduce the violence and abuse women face from their partners.

The Catalan National Assembly (ANC), a powerful pro-independence group with 80,000 members, has been instrumental in driving the push for Catalonia's independence from Spain. The organization has raised €3 million in bail for Catalan lawmakers under investigation through merchandise sales and donations. The article highlights the ANC's significant influence and financial capabilities amid key regional elections.

France's recent law criminalizing the payment for sex, while intended to protect sex workers from prosecution, is reportedly driving them further underground and increasing their exposure to danger. Transsexual prostitutes in Paris's Bois de Boulogne are particularly affected, facing heightened violence. The article highlights the harrowing experiences of these sex workers, suggesting that the legislation may be exacerbating their vulnerability rather than offering protection.

The World Economic Forum in Davos, centered on globalisation and free trade, faces scrutiny as UK and US voters turned against these principles in 2016. Business leaders, including Unilever CEO Paul Polman and Schneider Electric CEO Jean-Pascal Tricoire, discuss the implications of these political shifts on the business world.