Representation is one of the most pressing issues in fashion. Here, we highlight 12 models who are fighting for body inclusivity.

It's no secret that diversity and representation is one of the biggest contemporary issues faced by the fashion industry today. Whether pertaining to race, sexual identity or body inclusivity; it's a systemic issue that the industry has yet to overcome. While we are beginning to see more overt change on the runways of some of the world's most notable luxury fashion houses, we must be reminded that real change doesn't end there. In order to encourage conversation around representation, we can't ignore the curve models who have tirelessly paved the way for a more diverse industry – particularly where body and size inclusivity are concerned.

Here, we're celebrating 12 curve models who are setting new standards for body diversity in the fashion industry.

Ashley Graham

Ashley Graham is one of the most prominent faces and pioneers in the push for body diversity. The 33-year-old American supermodel has appeared on the cover of almost every major fashion magazine, walked the runway for internationally-renowned designers at fashion week and set a number of firsts for body inclusivity. In 2016, Graham made history as the first size 16 model to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated and her influence has not slowed down since.

The model has used her platform of almost 13 million followers and her presence as a change-maker to engage and inspire conversation around normalising diverse bodies in the industry. In 2015, Graham hosted a now viral Tedx Talk titled Plus Size? More Like My Size; where she shared her frustration on the re-occurring use of the term in the industry. During the talk, "I think we need to start look beyond the plus-size model paradigms, to what it actually means to be a model in 2o15."

Two years after that Tedx Talk, Graham released her first book, A New Model: What Confidence, Beauty, and Power Really Look Like, where she spoke candidly about body positivity and the challenges of working in the fashion industry. Outside of her major projects and talks, Graham consistently takes to Instagram and YouTube to continue the conversation.

Paloma Elsesser

Similarly to Graham, Paloma Elsesser has become a familiar face on the catwalk and in front of the camera. The London-born model was originally headhunted by beauty dame, Pat McGrath; becoming one of her muses. Before long, Elsesser was appearing in campaigns for Nike, Fenty, Proenza Schouler and on the cover of Vogue Arabia with one Ashley Graham. The model has spoken at length about struggling with accepting the plus-size term, explaining during an interview in 2016 that using the term was her only way to qualify her place as a model in the industry.

"When people ask what I do, I feel uncomfortable saying I'm a model because I don't like to see confused faces... I don't always want to be the token big girl. I don't want that to always be part of my description."

In late 2019, Elsesser sat down with Graham for an interview on her YouTube series, Pretty Big Girl; where the pair discussed the issue of tokenism and categorisation in relation to body positivity. "I work personally really hard at producing good work, feeling respected in an industry that I thought would never include me. I don't want to be devalued or reduced to a label... I also want the same treatment, I want the same clothes, I want the same experiences as a model," she explained to Graham.

Elsesser made her Milan Fashion Week debut at Fendi’s spring/summer 2021 show and from there on, has been a regular face on the Paris runways of Alexander McQueen and Lanvin to name a few.

Tess Holliday

A face we know well, Tess Holliday has been a long-standing advocate for body positivity and diversity in the fashion industry. Holliday made her mark in the industry in 2013 with her viral #EffYourBeautyStandard campaign, which continues to gain traction on social media. She uses the platform as a place to speak candidly about body inclusivity and celebrate the work of curve models and creators across the globe.

If that wasn't enough, Holliday is also a published author; releasing her book The Not So Subtle Art Of Being A Fat Girl: Loving the Skin You're In in 2017. Not one to shy away from public discourse, Holliday regularly uses her influence and reach to call-out toxic and uncalled for discussions about her image. Most notably, in 2018, she condemned what social media likes to call 'concern trolls' – people who criticise her weight under the guise of being worried for her health. In an interview with Self, she shared; “I just refuse to go down that road, and to feel like I need to prove my health and my worth to people that don't care."

Iskra Lawrence

British model and social media personality Iskra Lawrence uses her platform of almost 5 million followers to speak openly about issues relating to body diversity – reminding her loyal followers that what you see on social media is almost never real. Lawrence regularly posts videos on her YouTube and Instagram channels to encourage her followers to enjoy their own skin. A combination of workout videos, self-care, intimate moments and delicious recipes Lawrence has become a constant and accessible role model for the body positivity movement.

Speaking to Shape magazine in 2016, Lawrence also reiterated her aversion to the use of the term 'plus-size', sharing; "What upsets me is the fact that if you've categorised me, you've categorised all women my size and above in the real world... Calling someone 'plus-size', it seems like it's for attention or publicity. Get over it—she's a wonderful model."

Alva Claire

London-born, New York-based model, Alva Claire is relatively new to the runway scene, but she's already made her mark as a fierce advocate for body inclusivity. Claire first caught our eye when she appeared in Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty show for the second season running; rounding out the spring/summer 21 season by making history as one of three curve models to ever grace the Versace runway. Walking alongside Precious Lee and Jill Kortleve, her figure-hugging, pleated yellow dress was unmissable. Speaking later in an interview about that moment, Claire shared; "It’s not just about me, or any individual — we’re united. It’s about showing that there’s space for other body types on the runway. I want more doors and opportunities to open for other models.”

She also firmly believes that diverse bodies should not be used as gimmicks or as a way to tick an inclusivity box – explaining that change in the industry does not come from using a curve model for one campaign, but failing to follow through.

Candice Huffine

Candice Huffine may have gotten her start in beauty pageants, but the American model is no stranger to the nuances and challenges of body diversity. In 2000, she signed her first modelling contract as a curve model; despite at the time, being a size six US. Speaking in an interview with The Washington Post, Huffine reflects on this moment, admitting that it was her "curves" that set her apart. Since then, she has graced the pages of some of the world's biggest magazines; notably, an iconic shoot for Vogue Italia in 2011 alongside Robyn Lawley and Tara Lynn. As well as several campaigns for global brands over the years.

Speaking to Shape in 2017, Huffine passionately shared her thoughts on the industry's shift towards body diversity. "My body is not a fad. It's not a passing trend, and it's not just here for headlines for the moment." In the same year, Huffine founded her own label, launching an inclusive and sustainable activewear brand, Day/Won.

Kate Wasley

You may remember home-grown Australian model Kate Wasley as one part of the social media duo that once was @any.body_co – an Instagram account Wasley began with fellow model and friend Georgia Gibbs as a way to promote body positivity at any size. The pair also starred alongside each other in the 2018 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue; where Wasley also featured in a moving body inclusivity shoot.

Nowadays, Wasley continues to use her platform to spread information and incite discussion around body acceptance and curve models. Some of her most famous posts are her daily affirmations, which she writes on her mirror and shares with her followers. Some of the messages include, "Work out because you love you body, not because you hate it," and "Beauty, happiness and confidence aren't a size."

Precious Lee

A face that is impossible to forget, Precious Lee first made headlines when she became the first Black, curve model to appear in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition; but as we now know, her influence did not stop there. Lee has become a regular on the Fashion Week roster; modelling for Savage x Fenty and Versace alongside Claire. She has also landed work modelling in campaigns for Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu and New York City brand, Area.

During an interview in 2017, Lee spoke candidly about how achieving body inclusivity in the fashion industry was the responsibility of all, and not a burden that curve models should bear alone.

"It’s not just the model and the designer that’s involved. You have the casting director, you have the producer, you have all of these other people in the background behind the scenes that should be asked those questions. There has to be an effort on different parts in the industry to make a visible, tangible change."

Bree McCann

Another Australian name, Bree McCann first entered the modelling industry in 2010, when she was signed by a major curve-model division while on holiday in New York. From there on in, McCann (nee Warren), went on to star in campaigns across the globe. Her most recognisable work, is with ASOS Curve – but now, the Noosa-based model is supporting body diversity behind the camera.

In late 2019, McCann launched Code B; a new swimwear label designed to create inclusive pieces for all women. Around the time of launch, McCann opened up about how she felt she never truly belonged in the industry – sharing, "I was too big for mainstream clients and too small for the plus-size industry." Through Code B, McCann aims to inspire confidence in the women who see themselves in her, offering a size range of AU 10-20.

Jill Kortleve

When Dutch model Jill Kortleve walked the Chanel runway in those pink jeans and black cape, we knew it was all over. The 27-year-old model was only the second-ever curve model to appear in one of the luxury fashion house's shows, but it wasn't the first time she made her presence known as a body positivity advocate in the fashion industry.

Kortleve made her runway debut at the Alexander McQueen show during Paris Fashion Week autumn/winter 19/20, and since then, has been unstoppable. Despite her breakout fame, Kortleve shared during an interview in 2019 that all she's ever wanted to do is, "inspire young girls and boys, and show it’s okay if you don’t fit beauty standards, it’s okay to be a brown woman and have a moustache and arm hair, and it’s okay if you don’t have a flat stomach. "

Georgia Pratt

New Zealand-born Georgia Pratt first found her feet in the fashion industry on the designer side, but before long, began her highly-successful modelling career. Like a few of the women on this list, Pratt had her first big 'break' starring in Lane Bryant’s #PlusIsEqual, and subsequent #ThisBody campaigns.

Frequenting her fair share of runways, Pratt became the first-ever curve model to walk in a Christian Siriano show.

Robyn Lawley

Unquestionably one of Australia's most well-known curve models, Robyn Lawley has been an advocate in the realm of body positivity since she got her start in the industry. While she has graced the covers of some of the biggest fashion magazines across the globe, Lawley first reached international success when she became the first curve model in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition history.

Her work in pushing for change has not slowed down since. Earlier this week, Lawley announced that she is launching a brand new podcast, Every Body with Robyn Lawley: Surviving & Thriving In A Body Shaming World. As per the podcast's description, the platform will be a place where Lawley redefines "physical beauty, in which she looks critically at the #BodyPositvity movement and asks: who does it leave on the margin, and what is a better call to action?"

As for her views on the dated term 'plus-size', Lawley said in an interview with ABC's Australian Story that, "I hate the term plus-size... I hate the tag. I think you should shoot a whole bunch of girls, whatever size you need."

Record-breaking June temperatures catalyzed chemical reactions that exposed nearly three hundred million people to toxic smog levels, intensifying public health strains.
An unprecedented early-summer heatwave across Western Europe has triggered extensive ground-level ozone pollution, exposing approximately two thirds of the European Union population to toxic atmospheric conditions.

Ground-level ozone, a primary component of industrial smog, forms when high temperatures and intense sunlight accelerate chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides from vehicular traffic and human-driven methane emissions.

What is confirmed by regional atmospheric modeling and census data is that nearly three hundred million individuals, including an estimated one hundred million highly vulnerable children and elderly citizens, breathed air exceeding the European Union recommended maximum daily threshold of one hundred and twenty micrograms per cubic meter between June twenty-first and June twenty-eighth.

The scale of the pollution represents an immediate public health crisis, as ground-level ozone causes severe respiratory inflammation, damages lung tissue, and triggers acute asthma attacks.

The European Environment Agency previously attributed over sixty-three thousand annual deaths and billions of euros in agricultural crop damage to this specific pollutant.

During the late June climate anomaly, which the Copernicus Climate Change Service confirmed as the hottest June on record for Western Europe, more than seventy-two million people were subjected to extreme ozone concentrations exceeding one hundred and fifty micrograms per cubic meter, with peak levels reaching two hundred and thirty-three point seven micrograms in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Controlling this invisible atmospheric threat remains a complex regulatory challenge because ground-level ozone relies heavily on volatile organic compounds like methane, which accounts for one third of its formation.

While the European Union has successfully curbed urban nitrogen dioxide emissions over recent decades, the trading bloc currently lacks legally binding targets to reduce methane emissions stemming from its agricultural sector.

Environmental researchers note that the compounding pressure of high humidity, extreme temperatures, and elevated ozone creates a severe cumulative strain on human cardiovascular systems.

To mitigate immediate physiological risk during these escalating heat events, public health officials are advising citizens to restrict outdoor activities and avoid physical exercise during peak daylight hours as a critical safety measure.
The Royal Thai Embassy in Singapore hosted an exhibition celebrating traditional Thai textiles and contemporary design, using cultural exchange to strengthen Thailand's regional profile and diplomatic engagement.
Voters in Johor are preparing for a closely watched state election widely viewed as an important measure of support for Malaysia's federal governing coalition ahead of the next general election.
Officials meeting in Da Nang agreed to expand the use of artificial intelligence, digital reporting systems, and data-driven risk assessments to strengthen occupational safety standards across Southeast Asia's rapidly industrialising economies.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong concluded official visits to Indonesia and Timor-Leste, reaffirming economic cooperation with Jakarta and expressing Singapore's continued support for Timor-Leste's future membership of ASEAN.
Indonesia's anti-corruption authorities arrested senior officials connected to the country's flagship free nutritious meal programme, raising fresh concerns over oversight of major public spending initiatives.
Authorities from Singapore and Malaysia carried out coordinated operations that led to the arrest of suspects linked to a telecommunications fraud syndicate responsible for more than one point four million United States dollars in losses.
The Philippine government is expanding efforts to diversify liquefied natural gas supplies and strengthen energy resilience after earlier disruptions linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz exposed regional fuel vulnerabilities.
Singapore established a National Artificial Intelligence Council and introduced what it described as the world's first regulatory framework for agentic artificial intelligence, reinforcing its leadership in regional digital governance.
Differences among ASEAN members continue over how to respond to Myanmar's military authorities following recent military-backed elections, exposing ongoing divisions within the regional bloc.
Negotiations on a binding South China Sea Code of Conduct have made little progress as ASEAN members and China continue to differ over maritime disputes and regional security issues.
Environment ministers meeting in Bali moved forward with the legal and operational framework for the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control as member states prepare for elevated wildfire risks linked to El Niño conditions.
Indonesian officials outlined plans for a new international financial centre intended to attract nearly twenty-eight billion United States dollars in investment and strengthen the country's position in regional financial markets.
Malaysia announced plans to restart its nuclear energy programme by two thousand thirty-one as the government seeks reliable electricity supplies for rapidly growing data centre developments in Johor.
The Asian Development Bank forecasts Vietnam's economy will expand by seven point two percent this year, supported by strong exports, sustained foreign investment, and continued manufacturing expansion.
The Asian Development Bank lowered its growth forecast for developing Asia to four point nine percent, warning that inflation and continuing disruptions to Middle East energy markets could weigh on demand and increase transport costs across the region.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand and AirAsia signed a strategic agreement to promote Thailand across the airline's expanding network, supporting international visitor growth and the country's tourism-driven economy.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya, where both governments signed an agricultural cooperation agreement and jointly opened a new border facility aimed at improving trade and transport links.
Thailand's Board of Investment unveiled a seven-point strategy to ensure reliable supplies of clean electricity and transparent power tariffs, strengthening the country's bid to attract hyperscale artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure projects.
The Thai government approved nine major investment projects, including a large smart factory expansion by Nestlé and new data centre infrastructure backed by Japanese technology companies, accelerating Thailand's shift toward high-value electronics and digital industries.
Thailand's Board of Investment confirmed more than four point one billion United States dollars in commitments across nearly two hundred electric vehicle projects, reinforcing the country's ambition to become Southeast Asia's leading production hub for batteries, advanced components, and charging infrastructure.
The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center will host InfoComm Asia twenty twenty-six, bringing together technology companies and enterprise leaders for a major regional showcase of professional audiovisual and integrated technology solutions.
The return of key long-haul services, including daily flights between Bangkok and Amsterdam, together with airline fleet expansion, is supporting the continued recovery of Thailand's tourism and international aviation sectors.
As part of its new manufacturing project, Nestlé Thailand plans to purchase more than four billion baht in locally produced coffee beans, sugar, and milk each year while supporting farmers through training and climate-resilient agricultural research.
Fulltech Fiber Glass will invest nearly one hundred million dollars in Chachoengsao to manufacture specialized glass fiber fabric used in printed circuit boards, strengthening domestic supply chains for high-tech manufacturing.
The Board of Investment has expanded the responsibilities of its specialized energy panel to review data center projects more closely, ensuring electricity demand, environmental standards, and clean energy requirements are considered as digital infrastructure investment accelerates.
New investment from companies in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan is reinforcing Thailand's role as a regional manufacturing hub, creating a more integrated ecosystem for semiconductors, electronics, data centers, and artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Thai AirAsia and the Tourism Authority of Thailand have extended the Journey D program for a second year, supporting community-based tourism development in Songkhla province to spread tourism income more broadly while promoting sustainable travel.
Visa and Krungthai Bank are introducing card payment technology on sixty to eighty tuk-tuks in Bangkok as part of a pilot project that aims to equip ten to fifteen percent of the city's vehicles with electronic payment systems by twenty twenty-seven.
Lomrak Green Energy secured approval for a one hundred sixty-eight million dollar investment in two wind power projects in Lopburi province that will provide a combined one hundred twenty megawatts of renewable electricity to support Thailand's clean energy goals.
Doosan Electro-Materials will invest one hundred eighty million dollars in a new Samut Prakan production facility manufacturing copper-clad laminate and prepreg materials, further strengthening Thailand's electronics manufacturing ecosystem.
Taiwan Union Technology is investing one hundred eighty-nine million dollars in Chonburi to manufacture copper-clad laminate and prepreg materials for artificial intelligence servers and data centers, strengthening Thailand's position in the global electronics supply chain.
Datasection will invest more than two hundred thirty-five million dollars to establish advanced GPU server infrastructure in Bangkok and Pathum Thani, providing computing capacity for artificial intelligence and data-intensive applications across the region.
Thai Airways International received approval for a four hundred thirty million dollar investment to lease eight additional passenger aircraft, supporting the airline's expanding international network following the restoration of daily Bangkok-Amsterdam services.
The Asian Development Bank reduced its twenty twenty-six growth forecast for developing Asia to four point nine percent, citing prolonged volatility in global energy markets linked to the Middle East conflict and warning that higher commodity prices and tighter financial conditions will weigh on trade- and tourism-dependent economies.
Nestlé will build a highly automated factory and distribution center in Samut Prakan province with an investment of six hundred eighty-eight million dollars, expanding coffee production for domestic and regional markets while reinforcing Thailand's role as a leading food and beverage manufacturing hub.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim are jointly inaugurating a new road connection between the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security complexes at Sadao and Bukit Kayu Hitam, reinforcing bilateral cooperation in trade, tourism, agriculture, and investment.
Thailand's Board of Investment approved nine major projects worth a combined one point nine nine billion dollars, including investments from Japan's Datasection and South Korea's Doosan Electro-Materials, strengthening the country's position in artificial intelligence, advanced electronics, aviation, and clean energy supply chains.
An experienced flight instructor in Argentina died after jumping from a training aircraft during a lesson, leaving his twenty-two-year-old student to land the plane alone. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident.
Authorities in Argentina are reporting an extraordinarily rare and tragic incident in which a flight instructor jumped to his death during a training flight, leaving his stunned student to land the aircraft by herself.

According to reports from the South American country, Leandro Bertazzo, forty-two, jumped from a Cessna C-150 light aircraft on July 4 after taking off with his twenty-two-year-old student, whose identity has not been released, from an airport near the city of Córdoba.

The student told investigators that, moments before jumping, Bertazzo said to her, "You know what you need to do.

Keep going." He then removed his headset, unfastened his seat belt, opened the aircraft door, and leapt from the plane.

His body was found about twenty minutes later in the area where the student had informed authorities he had likely fallen.

Eduardo Álvarez, director of the flight school in Córdoba where Bertazzo had worked as an instructor for the past four years, said the student was deeply shaken but remained composed throughout the emergency.

"She was extremely distressed, but with complete professionalism she flew the aircraft back to the airport and executed a perfect landing," Álvarez said.

"She maintained an exceptionally high level of professionalism."

According to the reports, Bertazzo was an experienced pilot who had previously worked as a flight instructor in Chile.

Earlier on the day of his death, he had also conducted another training flight with a different student.

Álvarez described him as a highly professional instructor who "was always smiling" and was well liked by his students.

"He was a wonderful person with a big smile," he said.

However, he added that Bertazzo had been struggling with mental health issues and had received counseling at a psychiatric hospital during the week before his death.

According to Álvarez, Bertazzo's father said his son had been going through "a difficult period." Reports also stated that he had no children and had been living with his parents in Córdoba.

Álvarez emphasized that neither he nor anyone at the flight school had noticed any warning signs that might have prevented the tragedy.

"He made this tragic decision while aboard an aircraft with another person beside him," he said.

"It's impossible to comprehend or make sense of it, but the human mind is an extraordinarily complex thing."

He also noted that opening the door of an aircraft in flight is extremely difficult, comparing it to trying to open the door of a car traveling at two hundred kilometers per hour.

According to the reports, the authorities' investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing.

If someone in your surroundings is experiencing a crisis and may be at risk of suicide, do not hesitate to speak with them, encourage them to seek professional help, and emphasize the importance of doing so.

Try to help them connect with mental health professionals or national support services, including ERAN's hotline at 1201 or via WhatsApp at 052-8451201, or through the SAHAR website or www.headspace.org.il.
An analysis of electromagnetic attenuation, appliance interference, and structural limitations affecting modern home router efficiency.
The systemic architectural framework of unlicensed radio frequency allocation and the immutable physics of electromagnetic wave propagation dictate the performance limits of modern wireless local area networks, or Wi-Fi. Operating primarily within the globally saturated two-point-four gigahertz spectrum, standard domestic internet routing systems must perpetually navigate structural, electronic, and environmental impediments that weaken or alter signal integrity.

While newer protocols like Wi-Fi Six-E and Wi-Fi Seven introduce less congested five and six gigahertz bands to bypass legacy interference, the fundamental mechanics of wave attenuation, absorption, and reflection continue to present persistent challenges for consumer-grade connectivity.

Electromagnetic interference from everyday consumer electronics represents one of the most pervasive systemic disruptions within the two-point-four gigahertz frequency.

This specific slice of spectrum is legally designated for unlicensed public utility, meaning household routers directly compete with appliances that rely on identical wavelengths.

Microwave ovens are a primary culprit; despite internal metal shielding designed to confine radiation, minor degradation of door seals or structural aging frequently allows radiation leakage during operation.

What is confirmed is that this leakage introduces intense localized electromagnetic noise, overwhelming the router's transmissions and severely degrading data throughput.

Similar co-channel degradation regularly emanates from poorly shielded fluorescent light ballasts, vehicle ignition architectures, and legacy short-range wireless devices like older baby monitors or cordless telephony systems.

Beyond active electronic interference, physical structures and domestic materials induce severe signal attenuation through an effect known as shadowing.

Radio waves interact with physical matter based on atomic density and molecular composition.

Liquid volumes, such as large household aquariums, act as highly effective electromagnetic absorbers due to the dielectric properties of water molecules, which polarize and sap the kinetic energy of passing radio signals.

Similarly, structural engineering components such as reinforced concrete, brickwork, and wire-mesh stucco lath present dense physical boundaries that resist wave penetration.

A clear consequence of routing wireless signals through these dense matrices is the immediate creation of dead zones, where the amplitude of the signal falls below the threshold required for multi-link connectivity or reliable data packets.

Specular reflection further distorts signal propagation when radio waves encounter flat, highly conductive surfaces.

Because radio signals are a form of non-visible electromagnetic radiation, they mimic light when contacting reflective boundaries.

Large mirrors, which utilize thin metallic backings, do not merely obstruct the signal; they reflect waves away from their intended trajectory, causing multi-path distortion where overlapping signals arrive at receiving devices out of phase.

Large liquid crystal display panels and architectural metallic frames cause identical reflective deflection.

To resolve these spatial limitations without modifying architectural layouts, network deployment increasingly relies on hardware-level adjustments.

Integrating localized range extenders or deploying dynamic mesh network topologies with interconnected nodes effectively bypasses obstructions by routing signals via alternative physical pathways.

Environmental and meteorological extremes present the final systemic barrier to domestic and wide-area wireless infrastructure.

While internal building environments remain somewhat isolated, the macro-networks supplying data to residential routers face direct exposure to seasonal atmospheric disruption.

Severe winter storms can compromise data delivery infrastructure through thermal contraction of physical cabling or the accumulation of frozen precipitation on satellite reception hardware.

Conversely, high-temperature anomalies strain local network infrastructure and accelerate hardware degradation.

As localized grid strain and severe weather events become more frequent, telecommunications providers face growing regulatory and operational pressure to winterize infrastructure and harden regional distributions against environmental volatility.
France face Morocco in the opening World Cup quarter-final while FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina rejects allegations of bias, and football developments continue across the tournament and beyond.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup enters the quarter-final stage with France meeting Morocco in Boston in a repeat of their 2022 semi-final.

France have impressed throughout the tournament despite a difficult victory over Paraguay, while Morocco arrive after eliminating the Netherlands and defeating Canada, becoming the first African nation to reach consecutive World Cup quarter-finals.

French authorities appealed for calm ahead of the match.

Sports minister Marina Ferrari urged supporters to act responsibly, describing the occasion as a celebration, while interior minister Laurent Nunez warned that misconduct would not be tolerated following the disorder that accompanied Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League final victory.

FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina defended match officials following criticism from Egypt after Argentina's 3-2 victory in the round of 16. In an interview published by inside.fifa.com, he rejected suggestions that refereeing decisions could be influenced.

"Constructive discussion about decisions will always be part of football, but unfounded allegations have no place in our sport," Collina said.

"Nobody can question the integrity of the Fifa World Cup match officials ...

Nobody can claim that Fifa refereeing can be influenced by anyone, not even by the Fifa president (Gianni Infantino)."

Egypt argued that Mostafa Zico's second-half goal had been wrongly disallowed and believed Mohamed Salah should have received a penalty shortly before Argentina scored the winner.

Collina said VAR correctly identified a foul by Marwan Attia on Lisandro Martinez during the attacking phase before Zico's goal.

"We believe that a foul is a foul," Collina said.

"Regardless of whether the foul appears 'obvious', if the referee did not see it on the field of play, the VAR can intervene."

He also defended the decision not to award Egypt a penalty, saying officials considered the incident involving Salah and Julian Alvarez to be normal football contact.

Away from the pitch, reports showed the France national team has used Global Crossing Airlines for several domestic World Cup flights.

The airline has also operated more than half of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement removal flights during 2024 and 2025.

England continued preparations for their quarter-final against Norway.

Dan Burn said his side must improve on its performance against Mexico to stop Erling Haaland, while Morgan Rogers described Ezri Konsa as "one of the best centre-backs in football." Reece James remained a doubt through injury and Djed Spence was expected to replace the suspended Jarell Quansah.

Elsewhere, Steve Cherundolo was appointed head coach of the United States men's under-23 team through the 2028 Olympics.

Arsenal signed goalkeeper Illan Meslier after the expiry of his Leeds United contract, Newcastle United completed the signing of Sean Steur from Ajax and agreed a £51.5 million deal for Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, while Manchester United acknowledged that plans for a proposed 100,000-capacity stadium could increase the club's debt.

The United States also expressed interest in hosting the 2029 Club World Cup following the commercial and sporting success of staging the 2026 World Cup.

Elsewhere, an inquest into the death of Sheffield United midfielder Maddy Cusack was adjourned again after additional documents were lodged.

Campaigners also warned that increasingly divisive political rhetoric is contributing to rising levels of racism directed at footballers during the tournament.

The day's coverage also featured analysis of Norway's youth development model, previews of France against Morocco and England against Norway, transfer news, fan reaction, tournament statistics and features examining the wider political, cultural and sporting stories surrounding the World Cup.
Vietnam's Ministry of Home Affairs convened regional discussions on July 9 to strengthen cooperation on occupational safety and health standards as Southeast Asia works to better protect its expanding industrial workforce.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto hosted former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his family at his private residence in Jakarta, highlighting continuing personal and political ties among prominent regional figures.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn told a regional symposium in Jakarta that closer alignment between ASEAN initiatives and broader Indo-Pacific frameworks will be essential to strengthening regional cooperation on the tenth anniversary of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific concept.
Thai technology and business leaders are increasingly promoting artificial intelligence tools to help small and medium-sized enterprises improve efficiency, reduce operating costs, and strengthen competitiveness as digital transformation accelerates across the region.
The annual DigiTech ASEAN Thailand and AI Connect exhibition will return to Bangkok in November, with organizers expecting more than twelve thousand visitors and four hundred international technology brands focused on digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
Thai agricultural authorities are urging farmers to monitor high-risk areas and take preventive measures to reduce crop losses after forecasts pointed to stronger monsoon conditions and an increased risk of flooding.
Maritime cooperation and wider Indo-Pacific security issues are expected to feature prominently at the upcoming meetings in Manila, where officials from the twenty-seven members of the ASEAN Regional Forum will discuss regional stability and cooperation.
Severe Heatwave Drives Dangerous Ground-Level Ozone Pollution Across Two Thirds of European Union
Flight Instructor Jumped to His Death — Student Landed the Plane: "You Know What You Need to Do"
The Physical and Electronic Barriers Disrupting Domestic Wireless Networks
France and Morocco Open World Cup Quarter-Finals as Collina Defends Refereeing
Tech Pulse: The Future of AI and Screen Culture
Global News Briefing: Escalating Geopolitical Tensions and Corporate Shakeups
Global News Brief: Escalating Conflicts, Public Health Crises, and World Cup Drama
Europe's Growing Struggle with Extreme Heat and Air Conditioning
Anthropic Reengineers Agentic Architecture to Shift Autonomous Workplace Automation to the Cloud
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Global Crisis Alert: Escalating Middle East Tensions and UK Political Upheaval
"A New Era of Testing": The Rare Launch of a Missile from a Chinese Nuclear Submarine - That Could Reach U.S. Soil
Japanese Technology Firm Fujitsu Launches Advanced Artificial Intelligence Tool for Corporate Disclosures
South Africa Officially Launches Nationwide Campaign for Highly Contested Local Government Elections
United Kingdom Commits Additional Funding for Unexploded Ordnance Clearance in Laos
Singapore Announces Stringent New Greenhouse Gas Regulations for Commercial Cooling Systems
Cambodia and Thailand Hold High-Level Border Security Talks at United Nations Headquarters
Myanmar Military Government and China Sign Major Agreement to Upgrade Media and Cultural Cooperation
Knife Attack at Swiss Train Station Leaves Three Injured in Suspected Act of Domestic Terrorism
Transnational Extortion Gang Threatens Canadian Police With Army of One Thousand Armed Operatives
Australia Imposes Forty-Two-Day Quarantine on Cruise Ship Passengers Following Deadly Hantavirus Outbreak
International Monetary Fund Unlocks Seven Hundred Million United States Dollars for Sri Lanka Following Economic Reforms
China and Canada Foreign Ministers Meet in Ottawa in Effort to Stabilize Strained Diplomatic Ties
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Extreme Weather Patterns Trigger Severe Drought in Madagascar and Destructive Flooding in East Africa
Indian State of Karnataka Faces Political Upheaval as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Abruptly Resigns
Philippines and Japan Reaffirm Defense Ties as Crucial for Indo-Pacific Regional Stability
Norway Joins French Nuclear Deterrence Initiative in Major Shift for European Security Architecture
Global Critical Mineral Alliances Expand as Western Nations Move to Counter Chinese Supply Dominance
United States Imposes Fifty Percent Tariffs on Mexican Steel and Aluminum Ahead of Trade Pact Review
European Union and China Head Toward Major Trade Conflict Over Clean Technology Exports
United States Economic Growth Severely Downgraded to One Point Six Percent as Stagflation Fears Mount
World Health Organization Warns Central African Ebola Epidemic is Outpacing Containment Efforts
United States Treasury Department Conditions Sanctions Relief on Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz
Iranian Air Defenses Intercept and Destroy United States Military Drone Over Bushehr Province
Iranian Armed Forces Launch Ballistic Missiles Toward Unspecified Targets Prompting Regional Condemnation
United Nations Secretary-General Warns Global Order Facing Highest Level of Conflict Since 1945
Israel Issues Sweeping Evacuation Orders in Southern Lebanon Amid Intensified Hezbollah Conflict
Russia Announces Systemic Military Strikes Targeting Ukrainian Defense and Energy Infrastructure
United States and Iranian Negotiators Reach Draft Agreement to Extend Ceasefire and Resume Nuclear Talks
United Nations Security Council Deeply Divided Over United States Capture of Venezuelan President
US and Iran Exchange Direct Military Strikes Amid Fragile Gulf Ceasefire
World Health Organization Warns of Catastrophic Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo
Russia Threatens New Wave of Strikes on Ukrainian Infrastructure and Embassies
Scientists Warn Atlantic Ocean Currents Could Collapse Faster Than Projected
Anthropic Reaches $900 Billion Valuation in Historic AI Funding Round
Washington Imposes Crippling Sanctions on Iranian Maritime Authority
Japan and the Philippines Initiate Strategic Intelligence-Sharing Pact
Microsoft Deploys Autonomous Computer-Using AI Agents to Global Markets
Anthropic Secures $45 Billion Compute Infrastructure Agreement With SpaceX