Italy faces a severe demographic crisis with births plummeting to 379,000 in 2025. Explore the economic and social 'perfect storm' causing this collapse and its profound implications for the nation's future.
China introduces a 13% VAT on contraceptives while exempting childcare services, aiming to reverse a declining population. Experts debate the policy's effectiveness and potential risks.
An investigation into the unregulated world of UK doulas, known as 'The Birth Keepers', and their growing influence on maternity care. Discover the promises, risks, and the women at the centre of this movement.
China has announced a 55% tariff on Australian beef imports exceeding quotas, a move that has angered producers and threatens a major trade relationship. Explore the details and implications.
London is on track for its lowest homicide tally since modern records began in 2003, driven by a significant fall in knife deaths among young people. Campaigners credit outreach work and tougher laws.
An investigation by Guardian journalists reveals how a mother's engagement with the Free Birth Society community in 2018 led to devastating consequences. Listen to the full story.
The Trump administration's new visa restrictions target Tonga, sparking outrage over the 'unfounded' security threat. Community leaders warn of severed family and study links.
Donald Trump's aggressive foreign policy pivot to the Americas, reviving a Monroe Doctrine for the 21st century, risks regional instability and a refugee crisis. Explore the high-stakes strategy.
Former US President Donald Trump says he is 'not worried' about China's live-fire military exercises near Taiwan, raising questions about future US policy in the region. Read the full analysis.
Explore the rising doula movement in the UK as it confronts systemic gaps in maternity care. Meet the women offering emotional and physical support where the NHS falls short.
Precious metals surge to new peaks as 2025 rally continues. Oil prices rise on Middle East tensions. Get the latest on global markets and the Trump-Zelenskyy meeting.
An investigation reveals how the Free Birth Society's message led one woman to the brink. Discover the risks of unassisted childbirth and the year-long Guardian probe.
A mother shares her experience of a planned home birth, supported by professionals, advocating for informed choice and a middle ground between free birthing and hospital intervention.
Donald Trump heralds an economic golden age, but official data reveals a complex 2025 of rising unemployment, stubborn inflation, and volatile growth. Explore the charts.
Beijing imposes sanctions on Boeing and other US defence companies after Washington approves its largest-ever weapons package for Taiwan, escalating tensions. Read the full analysis.
The birth of baby Lara in Pagliara dei Marsi highlights Italy's deepening demographic crisis, with national birth rates hitting a historic low. Can policies reverse the trend?
Former Coronation Street star Kym Marsh announces the birth of her fourth grandchild, Bobby, in a heartwarming Christmas Day Instagram post. Read the full story and see the adorable family photos.
Exclusive NHS data reveals Asian women are nearly twice as likely to experience severe vaginal tearing during childbirth. Experts warn of a critical awareness gap among healthcare staff.
A Spanish woman awarded nearly €1 million after discovering she was switched at birth in 2002. The shocking DNA test result revealed her parents were not biologically related. Read the full story.
China imposes provisional tariffs of up to 42.7% on EU dairy products, a move seen as retaliation for EU electric vehicle duties. The decision impacts major brands and trade relations.
After a tough 2025, UK economic prospects are looking up. Discover four key reasons, from consumer spending hopes to rising productivity, that point to a better 2026.
A London commuter was left emotional after spotting a personal birth announcement on a Tube station board. The viral TikTok video captured a moment of unexpected joy at Notting Hill Gate.
An investigation by The Guardian reveals how the Free Birth Society's message of rejecting medical care endangered pregnant women. Listen to the full podcast series for the shocking details.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves says the latest interest rate cut to 3.75% proves economic stability is back. Homeowners save £1,200 yearly on mortgages, while SMEs benefit from cheaper loans for investment.
Honduras's election sees both candidates pledging to restore ties with Taiwan, halting China's diplomatic advance in Latin America amid US pressure and unmet Beijing promises. Explore the regional shift.
The Bank of England has cut its base rate to 3.75%, the lowest since 2023. Experts predict mortgage rates could fall to 3% by late 2026. Discover what this means for your home loan.
A Guardian investigation reveals the multimillion-dollar Free Birth Society, promoting unassisted childbirth, has been linked to baby deaths globally. Listen to the Full Story podcast.
US inflation rose 2.7% in November, contradicting Donald Trump's claim prices were falling 'very fast'. Data was delayed by the longest government shutdown.
The Bank of England has cut interest rates to 3.75%, offering relief to mortgage payers. However, Sky's Ed Conway warns of underlying economic uncertainties. Read the full analysis.
The Bank of England has cut interest rates to 3.75%, offering relief to mortgage payers. However, economists warn of underlying economic fragility and global trade uncertainties. Read the full analysis.