World in brief: Oct. 21, 2009

SOUTH KOREA

The Toronto Star reports that North Korea has requested the resumption of humanitarian aid from its southern neighbour. South Korea closed aid to the country in 2008, due to ongoing feuds between the two historically hostile nations.

GUINEA

The BBC reports that the Economic Community of West African States has imposed an arms embargo on Guinea. This is in response to an incident this September when government troops opened fire on an opposition rally.

MADRID, SPAIN

According to the BBC, mass rallies broke out this past week in Madrid. Activists were protesting the potential liberalization of Spain’s abortion laws. Currently, abortion is only legal in Spain under particular circumstances.

TEGUCIGALPA, HONDURAS

The Globe and Mail reports that the interim Honduran government has suspended key liberties stated in the country’s constitution. The changes will allow authorities to make arrests without warrants, and temporarily close media outlets.

-Compiled by Marie Andic