As October begins, it's time to assess your knowledge of recent global events. This international news quiz covers a range of topics, from political developments to environmental issues and historical milestones.
In the recent Austrian parliamentary elections, the Freedom Party received the most votes. This outcome aligns with a trend of right-wing populist victories in European elections this year. Austria's parliamentary system has seen various political shifts since its establishment.
An Israeli airstrike hit Beirut, Lebanon's capital, for the first time since 2006. This event marks the fourth instance of Israeli military action in Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region. Lebanon has faced multiple conflicts with Israel since gaining independence.
From his prison cell, former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan called for his supporters to protest proposed amendments that would increase government control of the judiciary. Khan's tenure as Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022 was marked by political turbulence, reflecting Pakistan's complex political landscape.
Newly inaugurated Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, a climate scientist, announced her goal for renewable energy to comprise 35% of the country's power use by 2030. This ambitious target aims to reverse the trend of increased fossil fuel usage in Mexico, the second-largest economy in Latin America.
A World War II-era bomb exploded underground at an airport in Germany. The incident, which fortunately resulted in no injuries, serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of the 1939-1945 global conflict. Unexploded ordnance from this period continues to be discovered across Europe.
Hundreds of thousands of Argentinians protested in favor of a law to increase funding for public universities. This demonstration occurred against the backdrop of Argentina's economic challenges, including a poverty rate exceeding 57% in January 2024. Public universities play a crucial role in the country's higher education system.
Reports suggest that Kenya has asked the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to investigate allegations of corruption and governance issues. This request comes in the wake of nationwide protests that drew international attention to Kenya's political situation. The country has faced various governance challenges since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1963.
The United Kingdom agreed to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean. This decision addresses a long-standing territorial dispute dating back to the mid-1960s when approximately 1,500 residents were forcibly displaced for a UK-US military project.
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday, becoming the first ex-president to reach this milestone. Carter, who served as the 39th President from 1977 to 1981, holds the distinction of being the first president to appear on Saturday Night Live, a long-running American sketch comedy show.
An asteroid from the main asteroid belt, located between Mars and Jupiter, has temporarily entered Earth's orbit. This celestial visitor, about the size of a school bus, will orbit our planet for approximately two months, behaving like a mini-moon.
"While this temporary mini-moon is an exciting astronomical event, its small size makes it difficult for most amateur stargazers to observe. However, our permanent moon remains a captivating object for nighttime viewing."
This quiz highlights the diverse range of events shaping our world. Stay informed by exploring Foreign Policy's regional newsletters for in-depth coverage of global affairs.