UNICEF report exposes dark secret about child poverty, UAE adopting eco-friendly transport, and other trending stories, Gulf News Editors comment on December 6 top news

UNICEF REPORT EXPOSES DARK SECRET ABOUT CHILD POVERTY: The recent UNICEF report revealing that one in five children in the world's 40 wealthiest countries lives in poverty has prompted a stark reflection on the persistently troubling issue. Despite a marginal decline in child poverty rates between 2012 and 2021, the absolute numbers remain staggering, with 69 million children facing daily struggles for adequate nutrition, clothing, and shelter. The report emphasises that economic prosperity does not automatically alleviate child poverty, challenging the assumption that growth is synonymous with societal welfare. It calls for urgent political action, highlighting the interconnected nature of child poverty and economic inequality. The international community must collaborate in implementing effective strategies to ensure a future where no child is left behind. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

DRIVING TO THE FUTURE: The UAE is propelling itself into a sustainable future, setting a visionary target for electric and hybrid vehicles to comprise 50 per cent of its road fleet by 2050. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, unveiled this commitment at the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), emphasising the urgent need for the transport sector To lead decarbonisation efforts. With over 81,000 electric and hybrid vehicles already gracing UAE roads, Al Mazrouei outlined ambitious plans, including expanding the electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, from 914 charging stations (as of mid-2023) to 10,000 by 2030. The UAE's dedication extends to tripling renewables capacity by 2030, aligning with COP28 goals, and embracing hydrogen as a key player in the quest for a sustainable transport sector. The UAE is not just adopting eco-friendly transport; it's steering a dynamic course towards a greener future. (Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

Novak Djokovic has sent a clear message to his rivals: It’s a year to remember for Novak Djokovic. The year 2023 began with plenty of questions and uncertainty for the Serb. But starting from the Australian Open, things started changing for the better and the 36-year-old went on to clinch a record 24th Grand Slam title this year. During the process he also eclipsed Rafael Nadal’s mark and also kept the next generation at bay. Djokovic underlined his superiority over the rest by ending the year as the world No 1 for the eighth time. In all these, he has sent out a clear message for his rivals in the new year, he is not going to make it any easier for them. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

RED SEA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL IS ALL ABOUT CELEBRATING CINEMA, STORIES, AND STARS: A film festival is a glorious platform to celebrate storytellers from around the world and the ongoing Red Sea International Film Festival is doing a splendid job of balancing films, fanfare, and stardust. Gulf News was on the grounds chronicling the highlights and there's no denying that when it comes to pulling in star power, there's no outdoing RSIFF. Celebrated actors like Chris Hemsworth, Will Smith, Ranveer Singh, Katrina Kaif, and director Baz Luhrmann are all in Jeddah talking films and hailing different voices in filmmaking. Saudi Arabia's film industry may be relatively new, but such festivals are amplifying their catch-up speed to global cinema with great force. When all Hollywood, Bollywood, and Korean cinema stars are heading to Jeddah this week, we know that this country is on the cusp of a cinematic revolution. Plus there were at least 38 filmmakers who are women participating this year which is an impressive number. As their festival tagline goes: 'Your story, your festival", we have seen good films and some ultra-glamorous stars championing good cinema at Red Sea. The show is nothing short of spectacular and has reminded us that film festivals are a breeding ground for new voices and new methods of storytelling. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)