In 1928, Alexander Fleming's discovery of penicillin revolutionized medicine, but nearly a century later, antimicrobial resistance poses a significant threat. This resistance, affecting antibiotics, antivirals, antiparasitics, and antifungals, is exacerbated by the misuse and overuse of these drugs. The World Health Organization has identified antimicrobial resistance as a top public health threat, with drug-resistant infections causing over a million deaths annually. Preventative measures include proper hygiene, sanitation, and cautious prescription practices to mitigate the spread of resistant microorganisms.

Europe's social economy employs approximately 13.6 million people, representing 6.3% of the working population, based on 2015 data. Giulia Galera from EURICSE highlights the challenges in obtaining accurate data, noting that the social economy is well-established in some countries but still developing in others. The social economy often lacks recognition at the policy level and even among its own organizations. The article explores the definition, characteristics, and challenges of social economy organizations in Europe.

Europe faces significant job shortages in sectors such as software, healthcare, construction, and engineering, with 38 occupations identified as having widespread shortages. The European Labour Authority's report highlights that these shortages are particularly severe in northern and western Europe, including Switzerland, Italy, and the Netherlands. Factors contributing to these imbalances include technological changes, an ageing population, the transition to a greener economy, and recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The health and social care sector is notably affected, struggling to attract and retain workers. Conversely, there are surpluses in professional, clerical, and elementary occupations, with no STEM professions included in the surplus list.

Fernando Parrado, a survivor of the 1972 Andes plane crash, recounts his harrowing experience and survival against all odds. The story, now depicted in the Netflix film 'La sociedad de la nieve,' highlights Parrado's incredible journey through extreme conditions, the loss of his loved ones, and the eventual rescue. Parrado reflects on the importance of friendship, trust, and the will to survive, emphasizing that his story remains relevant due to its unique and unrepeatable nature.

Antarctica plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing excess heat and CO2, and distributing nutrients globally. However, it faces significant threats from warming temperatures, industrial fishing, and tourism. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are proposed as a solution to protect marine biodiversity and support environmental resilience. The European Union and the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources have proposed new MPAs, but these are currently blocked by China and Russia. Strong international cooperation and regulations are essential to protect Antarctica and achieve global climate targets.

Over half of Europeans misunderstand food date labels, leading to significant food waste estimated at 88 million tonnes annually, costing €143 billion. The European Commission notes that better understanding could reduce waste by eight million tonnes yearly. Misinterpretation of

Organic food sales in the EU have more than doubled in the last decade, driven by increasing consumer demand. Organic farming in the EU must adhere to strict guidelines, including the use of natural fertilizers and pesticides, no GMOs, and limited use of antibiotics. The EU's organic certification ensures compliance with these standards. New regulations coming in 2022 will further harmonize rules and simplify procedures for small farms. The EU aims to increase organic farming to 25% of all agricultural land by 2030, as part of its Farm To Fork strategy, which also seeks to make organic food more affordable.

Offshore renewables, including wind, wave, and tidal energy, offer significant potential for clean energy. Offshore wind farms are currently the most popular, with advantages such as higher wind speeds and minimal impact on ocean ecosystems. Wave energy, exemplified by AW-Energy Oy's WaveRoller, and tidal energy, which is predictable and independent of weather, are also being explored. Europe leads in offshore renewables, with ambitious targets set by the EU to increase capacity significantly by 2050, requiring substantial private investment.

In October 2020, Bolivia faces another pivotal election amidst the backdrop of a pandemic and political upheaval. The main contenders are Luis Arce of the Movimiento Al Socialismo (MAS), Carlos Mesa of Comunidad Ciudadana (CC), and Luis Fernando Camacho, a far-right figure. The article explores the political landscape, the candidates' backgrounds, and the potential for a second round of voting. It highlights the challenges the new government will face, including economic recovery, healthcare improvement, and political stability. The sentiment towards the entities mentioned is generally neutral, focusing on factual descriptions and expert analyses.

Bolivia has been awaiting new elections for nearly a year, with the date now set for October 18, 2020. The potential disqualification of Evo Morales' party, Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS), has sparked controversy. MAS candidate Luis Arce mentioned an internal poll during a TV interview, which could lead to the party's legal disqualification according to Bolivian electoral law. Political parties Juntos and Creemos have filed complaints against MAS with the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE), which has referred the case to the Plurinational Constitutional Tribunal (TCP) for review. The situation is complicated by past actions during Morales' tenure when the TSE disqualified opposition candidates under the same law. Experts believe that the disqualification of MAS is unlikely and would be disproportionate, and that even if MAS were disqualified, it would not eliminate the party as a political force.

Bolivia faces a tragic situation with hospitals overwhelmed and cemeteries lacking space due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Bolivian engineer Carlos Ayo created a portable crematorium oven to address this issue. The oven, which costs $45,000, allows for cremations at about $35 each and is designed to be easily transported, especially to rural areas. Despite the grim nature of the situation, the innovation has garnered attention and contact from authorities and private companies. As of August 6, Bolivia had reported 86,423 coronavirus cases and 3,465 deaths.

There are 165 candidate vaccines worldwide for COVID-19, with 26 in or nearing human trials. The EU has strategies to secure vaccines, including agreements with Sanofi for 300 million doses. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) will approve vaccines for EU states, with distribution and pricing varying by country. The EU's strategy involves collective negotiations to ensure access for all, including low- and middle-income countries through the COVAX plan. Vaccine development is high-risk, with significant financial stakes. The EU is financially supporting companies to mitigate risks and ensure production facilities can be repurposed if needed. Regulatory flexibility is being offered to expedite vaccine development without compromising safety. Pricing is not yet determined, and it's unclear who will receive the vaccine first, but high-risk workers and vulnerable populations are likely candidates.

As France's streets emptied due to the COVID-19 lockdown, the homeless faced increased hunger and uncertainty. Volunteer groups like #PourEux, with young participants such as Maxime Klimaszewski, mobilized to distribute food using a simple app-based system. Volunteer cooks like Françoise prepared meals with personal notes. The Abbé-Pierre Foundation highlighted the worsening situation for homeless families and children, with rising numbers of street births and rejections from emergency shelters. Special centers were opened for non-hospitalized homeless COVID-19 patients, and winter housing measures were extended. Despite these efforts, the homeless population, including individuals like Eric, a passionate reader, continue to face challenges, with the potential for increased deaths on the streets during the pandemic.

Profiles of inspirational women across Europe, highlighting their achievements and contributions in various fields such as politics, activism, literature, and science. The article celebrates their impact on society, gender equality, and human rights, showcasing their dedication and influence in their respective domains.

European Space Agency astronaut Luca Parmitano answers questions from the public in a weekly series called Ask Our Astronaut. In response to a question from French high school tutor Maarten Das, Parmitano shares his unique insights into climate change, having witnessed its effects from space, and discusses potential solutions to combat it.

Bolivia's electoral board declared President Evo Morales the winner of the first-round election, sparking protests and accusations of fraud. Despite initial results indicating a need for a second round, Morales claimed victory, leading to widespread scrutiny and calls for transparency from international bodies like the EU and OAS. The Organization of American States and several foreign governments expressed concerns over the vote count's integrity. Morales accused the opposition of attempting a coup, while his rival Carlos Mesa urged continued protests and promised to present evidence of fraud. The situation has left Bolivia deeply divided.

Luca Parmitano, an ESA astronaut, has been conducting various scientific experiments aboard the ISS, including bio-mining with bacteria, 3D bioprinting of biological tissues, and studying amyloid protein aggregation related to Alzheimer's disease. These experiments aim to leverage microgravity for advancements in space mining, medical research, and understanding human physiology in space, potentially paving the way for future long-term space missions and the development of human organs in space.

The border fence between Mexico and the United States has been transformed into a playground with the installation of three pink seesaws by architects Ronald Rael and Virginia San Fratello, supported by Colectivo Chopeke. Named 'Teeter Totter Wall,' the project symbolizes the economic interdependence and delicate balance between the two countries. The installation aims to connect children and adults on both sides, highlighting the direct impact of actions in one country on the other. The seesaws are located in Sunland Park, New Mexico, and Anapra, Chihuahua, Mexico.

Nayib Bukele, the new president of El Salvador, has been using Twitter extensively to announce the dismissal of public officials and make new appointments, a strategy that has garnered both praise and criticism. While some view his actions as transparent and proactive, others see them as an abuse of power. Bukele's use of social media has drawn comparisons to US President Donald Trump, although Bukele's follower count is significantly lower. The article highlights the mixed reactions from the public and political analysts, noting that Bukele's approach could be a strategic move to differentiate himself from previous administrations.

Social media has become a crucial tool for political parties in Spain's general election campaign, with platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger playing significant roles. The far-right Vox party has the largest following on Instagram, while the left-wing Podemos is most influential on Facebook and Twitter. Social media strategies vary, with Podemos leveraging early adoption and Vox focusing on visual content to engage younger audiences. Despite social media popularity, polls indicate the PSOE is likely to secure a majority. Facebook recently removed far-right networks spreading disinformation, highlighting the platform's role in maintaining election integrity.

Nayib Bukele, a former mayor of San Salvador, is the favorite to win the upcoming presidential elections in El Salvador. Known for his use of social media and anti-corruption stance, Bukele appeals to the urban middle-class and youth. Running for the right-wing Grand Alliance for National Unity (GANA), his candidacy raises questions about his political ideology. El Salvador faces significant challenges from street gangs and migration issues, which are central to the election discourse. Bukele's main rival is Carlos Calleja from the National Republican Alliance (ARENA).

A quiz designed to test readers' knowledge of quirky news stories from Europe in 2018, highlighting events that are memorable for their unusual or humorous nature.

Esther Wojcicki, an educator at Palo Alto High School, advocates for modernizing teaching methods to incorporate more technology and active learning. Speaking at the STOA event in Brussels, she proposed the '80/20' model, where 20% of teaching time is dedicated to collaborative projects using electronic devices. Wojcicki emphasizes the need for educational reform to foster creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. She also calls for changes in testing methods, such as the PISA test, to encourage these skills. The STOA event focused on the impact of AI and quantum technologies on society, highlighting the importance of ethical considerations in technological advancements.

Annually, hundreds of upland sandpipers die in the high-altitude lake area of Ozogoche, Ecuador, during September and October, an event not fully understood by scientists. While ornithologist Tatiana Santander has considered various theories, including sickness and sulfuric intoxication, she suggests weather and strong winds may cause the birds to fall into the lake, leading to thermal shock and death. However, the local indigenous community views the phenomenon as a supernatural gift to Mother Earth, with the birds' deaths believed to honor the spirits of the sacred lake and bring the rainy season. This belief is celebrated in a festival where people eat, drink, and dance by the lake, and some locals have incorporated the dead birds into their diet. Shaman Raúl Tenesaca leads a purification ritual, seeing the birds' sacrifice as beneficial for the people living in the area.

Spanish startup Haibu 4.0 aims to address Barcelona's housing crisis with its 'beehive' apartments, offering small, affordable living spaces. Despite applying for permits, the project faces legal challenges from Barcelona’s city council, which argues the apartments do not meet minimum habitability standards. General manager Marc Olivé insists the project will proceed regardless of permits. The initiative targets local residents, particularly those with financial struggles, and has already received significant interest.

Marian Avila, a 21-year-old Spanish model with Down syndrome, is set to make history by participating in New York Fashion Week on September 8. Her journey began with a Facebook message from Kenzie Dugmore, a young model and advocate for people with Down syndrome. Marian will model a collection of gala dresses by designer Talisha White, who is known for her commitment to inclusion and women's empowerment. Marian hopes her story will inspire others with Down syndrome to pursue their dreams.

Concha García Zaera, an 88-year-old grandmother from Valencia, Spain, has gained international fame for her meticulous artwork created using Microsoft Paint. Her Instagram account, which has over 162,000 followers, showcases her digital paintings inspired by daily street scenes and local nature. Zaera's journey into digital art began over a decade ago when she had to abandon oil painting due to her husband's illness. Despite her age, she continues to use Windows 7 and a mouse for her creations, becoming a reference for many artists worldwide. Her story went viral on social media, significantly boosting her follower count and media attention.

A 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Venezuela's eastern coast, causing no casualties or major damage but adding to the country's woes amid severe economic turmoil. Venezuelans turned to Twitter to cope, using memes to highlight the dire situation, including food and medical shortages, hyperinflation, and criticism of President Nicolas Maduro's leadership. The new currency, Bolivar Soberano, was also mocked in the context of the earthquake.

On the anniversary of the Barcelona attack, experts discuss the complexities of social integration, highlighting the case of the young men involved in the 2017 Barcelona and Cambrils attacks. Despite appearing integrated, they were radicalized, leading to the question of what true integration entails. The lack of coordination among Spanish police forces due to political issues is criticized, and the ongoing high terrorist threat level in Spain is acknowledged.

Major floods have nearly doubled in frequency over the past 30 years, with an average of 165 serious floods occurring annually since the turn of the century, compared to 87 per year in the 1990s. These floods impact over 140 million people each year. Other natural disasters such as droughts, landslides, storms, and fires have also increased. Despite a decrease in the average number of deaths from weather-related disasters, the financial cost of damage has risen. Floods, while not the deadliest, affect the most people by displacing them and destroying infrastructure and food supplies.