PLEASE NOTE: Daily posting and “Answers” emails will end for the school year on Friday, May 29th.  This is the last "Tuesday's World Events" post for the school year.

1. For each of the 3 countries, give the following information:
a) capital
b) location/the countries that share its borders
c) the religious breakdown of the population
d) the type of government
e) the chief of state (and head of government if different) If monarch or dictator, since what date has he/she ruled? – include name of heir apparent for monarch.
f) the population
[Find the answers at the CIA World FactBook website. For each country, answers can be found under the “Geography” “People” and “Government” headings.
NOTE: Some answers can still be found at the WorldFactBook (a, b and d)  — however, we have determined that it is no longer always accurate for c, e and f.  Instead, the most accurate for these answers is Wikipedia – search there for “Religion in ___” or “Politics of ____” for the leaders.  Just do an internet search for “Population of ___.”]

NOTE to students: Before answering the questions below, read the info under “Background” and watch the videos under “Resources.”

2. For IVORY COAST:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) What types of health problems might people develop from using skin lightening products?
c) Women (and men) with white skin use tanning beds, or sit in the sun for hours building a tan. Dark skinned women (and men) want to look lighter by bleaching their skin. Most of the methods people use to lighten and darken their skin can cause serious health problems. Do you think the government is right to ban these products? Explain your answer.
d) Do you think the U.S. government should ban tanning beds in the U.S.? Explain your answer.

3. For FRANCE:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) How are charities responding to the bill?
c) Do you think the French Assembly’s bill is a good way to cut down on food waste? Explain your answer.
d) Do you think the U.S. Congress should pass a similar bill? Explain your answer.

4. For IRELAND:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) What percent of voters supported the legalization of gay marriage in Ireland?
c) According to Yes Equality, the umbrella group that spearheaded the campaign to change the law, gay and lesbian couples will now be able to enter into civil marriage, which "is different and distinct from religious marriage.” The group's website says, "No religious institution can be forced to marry a lesbian or gay couple against their beliefs. Churches will be able to continue with religious ceremonies and will not be required to conduct wedding ceremonies for same-sex couples." Do you think Yes Equality will continue to hold this view now that same-sex marriage has been made legal in Ireland? Explain your answer.

PLEASE NOTE: Daily posting and “Answers” emails will end for the school year on Friday, May 29th.  This is the last "Tuesday's World Events" post for the school year.