For international audiences, the message was clear. America First remains firmly in place.

Back to Plan A

Trump not only defended the use of import duties after the Supreme Court ruled that he had exceeded his authority in imposing sweeping across-the-board raises, he promised more.

"So despite the disappointing ruling, it's saving our country ... many of the wars I've settled was because of the threat of tariffs , I wouldn't have been able to settle them without. [They] will remain in place under fully approved and tested alternative legal statutes."

Although the ruling insisted that revenue-raising was a matter for Congress, Trump told the chamber he wouldn't be needing their consent for the new measures.

For trading partners, this was intended to be a clear signal that legal obstacles at home will not soften Washington’s trade stance. Trump went further, reviving a long-held claim that tariffs could replace income tax revenue altogether. "I believe the tariffs paid for by foreign countries will, like in the past, substantially replace the modern-day system of income tax."

Economists dispute that foreign countries bear the full cost of tariffs, but the political message was blunt: the era of predictable US trade policy is not returning any time soon.

Iran and the magic words

The sharpest foreign policy focus was Iran. The United States has built up its largest regional military presence since the Iraq war, amid rising tensions over Tehran’s nuclear programme and missile development.

Trump framed Iran as an existential threat. "For decades, it had been the policy of the United States never to allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon. Many decades. Since they seized control of that proud nation 47 years ago, the regime and its murderous proxies have spread nothing but terrorism and death and hate. They've killed and maimed thousands of American service members and hundreds of thousands and even millions of people… this is some terrible people. They've already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas, and they're working to build missiles that will soon reach the United States of America."

While expressing a preference for diplomacy, he drew a firm red line. "My preference is to solve this problem through diplomacy. But one thing is certain, I will never allow the world's number one sponsor of terror, which they are by far, to have a nuclear weapon."

Immigration and crime

Immigration remains central to Trump’s domestic and international messaging. He declared: "After four years in which millions and millions of illegal aliens poured across our borders totally unvetted and unchecked, we now have the strongest and most secure border in American history by far. In the past nine months, zero illegal aliens have been admitted to the United States. But we will always allow people to come in legally, people that will love our country and will work hard to maintain our country."

He also linked immigration to crime and social disorder, inviting into the chamber families who had become victims.

And he didn't forget to mention his favourite theme, frauds perpetrated by some members of the Somali community: "The Somali pirates who ransacked Minnesota remind us that there are large parts of the world where bribery, corruption, and lawlessness are the norm, not the exception."

For many countries, particularly in Africa and Latin America , such rhetoric reinforces the perception of a United States that sees migration primarily through a lens of threat rather than opportunity. Trump insisted that he was ready to welcome in people who love the US, although in the past he has indicated that the ones he would like to see coming are from Norway, Sweden or white South Africans.

Military prowess

Trump balanced his hard-line positions with repeated praise for the armed forces. "Our military and police are stacked." "We have the most powerful military on Earth." "we love our military."

At the same time, he renewed sweeping claims about his role as a peacemaker. "In my first 10 months, I ended eight wars, including Cambodia and Thailand; Pakistan and India - would have been a nuclear war - 35 million people, said the Prime Minister of Pakistan, would have died if it were not for my involvement; Kosovo and Serbia; Israel and Iran; Egypt and Ethiopia; Armenia and Azerbaijan; the Congo and Rwanda; and of course the war in Gaza which proceeds at a very low level."

Some of those conflicts - Serbia and Kosovo, Ethiopia and Egypt - were either long-running diplomatic tensions or disputes that had not escalated into full-scale wars. For Trump, it didn't matter. He was the bringer or war or peace.

The broader message

Taken together, the speech offered a message of continuity rather than change. Whether that will be enough to revive the president's flagging approval ratings remains to be seen. And if it doesn't, the world may experience a new phase of America First.

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

Footage circulating online shows the costumed protester, whose name was not disclosed, addressing council members at the Levi’s Stadium-adjacent meeting on Jan. 27. He called the officials “cowards” and warned that “hundreds of masked men” could descend on the city if local authorities failed to push back against ICE operations.

The man’s dramatic entrance and repeated swearing drew attention on a livestream of the meeting, as he implored the council to “reaffirm” that Santa Clara would not provide city resources to support federal immigration enforcement during the Feb. 8 NFL championship between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots.

He referenced recent killings by federal agents in Minneapolis earlier this month, framing the concern as part of a broader pattern of violence by ICE and federal law enforcement.

Santa Clara Police Chief Cory Morgan declined to comment on ICE’s presence, saying the department would not “confirm, deny, or speculate about” the actions of federal agencies.

The appearance comes amid heightened national scrutiny of ICE following fatal shootings during enforcement operations in Minnesota, which left two people dead and several others detained.

Corey Lewandowski, a Department of Homeland Security adviser, had previously indicated that ICE would be present at the Super Bowl, though details of their role remain unclear.

'Some heroes wear capes'

Online reactions to the Batman-clad speaker were divided. 

Some dismissed the intervention as a publicity stunt, while others praised the theatrics as a bold call to accountability. One viewer wrote, “Some heroes do wear capes,” while another added, “You guys might be laughing, but he got his message out.”

The man’s intervention underscores growing tensions between federal enforcement agencies and local authorities over the use of city resources and the scope of ICE operations in major public events.

Santa Clara officials, meanwhile, have not publicly indicated any plans to curtail ICE’s involvement, highlighting the delicate balance local governments face between public safety, federal authority, and political pressure.

As the Super Bowl approaches, the presence of federal officers in and around Levi’s Stadium is likely to remain a point of controversy, amplified by protests, public commentary, and now a masked man in Batman attire demanding accountability.

A historic night for global representation

Bad Bunny, representing Puerto Rico, also secured the award for Best Música Urbana Album and Best Global Music Performance for "EoO". In a poignant acceptance speech delivered in both Spanish and English, Bad Bunny, who is set to headline the Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday, February 8, dedicated his win to "all the people who had to leave their homeland to follow their dreams". 

Other significant wins for the Global South included:

Main category winners and record-breaking achievements

Several industry giants continued to expand their legacies. Kendrick Lamar was the most-awarded artist of the night, winning Record of the Year for "Luther" (shared with SZA), Best Rap Album for GNX, and Best Rap Song for "TV Off". These victories allowed Lamar to surpass Jay-Z for the most career Grammys by a rapper, reaching a total of 27 awards.

Other major winners included:

Political statements and immigrant advocacy

The 2026 ceremony was defined by its political undertones, as many artists used the global platform to protest immigration enforcement. Billie Eilish, Kehlani, and Bad Bunny all voiced strong anti-ICE sentiments from the stage. Shaboozey, who won for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, dedicated his award to his immigrant mother and the cultural contributions of immigrants to the United States. Backstage, legendary Cuban singer Gloria Estefan expressed fear regarding the current political climate and children in detention centres.

Other notable winners

The evening also saw Leon Thomas win Best R&B Album for Mutt and Best Traditional R&B Performance for "Vibes Don’t Lie". Kehlani took home both Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song for "Folded". 

In the rock and alternative categories, The Cure won Best Alternative Music Album (Songs of a Lost World), while Turnstile swept multiple awards, including Best Rock Album and Best Metal Performance. Notably, director Steven Spielberg earned his first Grammy for the film Music for John Williams, officially making him the latest member of people to have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards (EGOT).

According to ICE’s data , 56 people died in ICE custody between 2009 and 2017, during the Obama administration. From 2017 to 2020, under the first Trump administration, the number was 52. Between 2021 and 2024, during the Biden administration, ICE reported 26 deaths.

What emerges from ICE records and independent investigations is a pattern of medical vulnerability. Many of those who died had chronic illnesses, mental health conditions , or were recovering from trauma linked to migration and detention.

Causes of death listed by ICE include heart attacks, suicide, COVID-19 complications, dehydration, and other untreated or poorly managed medical conditions. Reviews cited by NPR and the American Immigration Lawyers Association have repeatedly found delays in care, ignored complaints, and failures to transfer detainees to hospitals in time.

What is obvious is how little this pattern changes with political leadership. Every administration has pledged improvements to detention standards, yet deaths continue to occur.

Immigration lawyers argue that detention itself is the central risk factor. Facilities are not designed to provide long-term or complex medical care, yet they routinely hold people with serious health needs.

The American Immigration Lawyers Association and other advocacy groups continue to push for alternatives to detention, particularly for asylum seekers and medically vulnerable individuals. They point to evidence that community-based supervision is not only safer but also more cost-effective and humane.

The record shows that deaths in ICE custody are not isolated incidents tied to a single president or policy shift. They are a recurring outcome of a detention system with longstanding medical failures and weak accountability.

The most pressing question now is no longer how the numbers compare across administrations, but why preventable deaths continue to happen in the first place..

Vitaly’s video showed him grabbing a security guard’s cap, attempting to seize another guard’s firearm, and threatening to rob a woman — acts prosecutors said merited three counts of unjust vexation.

On Thursday, the Philippines’ Bureau of Immigration (BI) said its Board of Commissioners has issued a deportation order against the 33-year-old Russian national, following the resolution of criminal cases filed against him.

He was charged with three counts of the offence before courts in Taguig, cases that have since been settled, thereby clearing the way for his removal from the country, according to immigration officials.

After 9 months in jail

Earlier, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla had insisted that Vitaly would serve his sentence locally , saying deportation was not immediately possible.  Neither Russia nor the United States — where the vlogger holds a green card — had agreed to receive him.

At the time, Remulla said Vitaly had written to him seeking the dismissal of the charges, citing mental health concerns, but stressed that the law would take its course.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had also condemned the vlogger’s action, warning that abuse disguised as entertainment would not be tolerated in the Philippines.

Remulla later clarified that while Vitaly holds US residency, he remains a Russian citizen travelling on a Russian passport, underscoring where responsibility for his return ultimately lies.

Tourists welcome, but…

Vitaly’s case has drawn attention to the limits of prank culture in the age of viral content, particularly when performed in foreign countries.

“Let this be a reminder to all our visitors here in the Philippines that we always welcome tourists and visitors,” Remulla said. “We treat them with respect and we expect them to follow the same rules as we follow the same rules when we travel.” 

Vitaly has more than 10 million subscribers on YouTube and is known for provocative stunts across the world . Because of his actions, he has been declared persona non grata , or an “unwelcome person,” in several countries, including the Philippines. 

What they said

Speaking about the countries to be included on the ban list, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, during an interview with Fox News on December 4, said, “If they don't have a stable government there, if they don't have a country that can sustain itself and tell us who those individuals are and help us vet them, why should we allow people from that country to come here to the United States?” Trump previously said the ban was needed to protect against “foreign terrorists” and vowed to “permanently pause” migration from all “Third World Countries”.

These remarks coincided with reports of targeted immigration enforcement operations that were focusing on the Somali community in Minnesota. Nearly 58% of Somalis in Minnesota were born in the United States, and 87% of the foreign-born population are naturalised U.S. citizens, according to reports .

The notion that Somalis contribute nothing is strongly refuted by those who see their efforts on the ground, both in their homeland and abroad. 

U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, who is Somali-born and immigrated to the U.S. at age 12, responded to the "vile" remarks by highlighting that Somali Americans make considerable contributions to the U.S. and are actively working to improve the country. 

Ahmed Soliman, a Horn of Africa researcher, affirmed this view, noting that the Somali population, both in the diaspora and within Somalia, has made "huge contributions to their communities".

In the capital city of Mogadishu, individuals and civil society organisations are stepping into the dangerous gaps left by decades of conflict. 

Somalia has faced ongoing instability since the 1991 fall of the Siad Barre regime, leading to civil conflict and the rise of extremist groups like al-Shabab. 

This has displaced millions, with an estimated 10 million Somalis living in neighbouring countries and nearly 2 million in the global diaspora — about 10% of whom are in North America.

Dr Abdulkadir Abdirahman Adan, a dentist and founder of the country's sole free ambulance service, said Trump “doesn’t know much about Somalis.”

“In every nation, there is some bad people… but not all of them. Somalis, I do believe there are very good people, in generosity, helping others,” he added. 

Adan’s ambulance service is a vital lifeline in a city that regularly endures terror attacks by al-Shabab. He and his staff often risk their lives, arriving at blast scenes shortly after explosions, believing that every life has an equal value. 

With an estimated population of 19.1 million residing within its borders, 10 million in neighbouring countries, and nearly 2 million in the global diaspora, Somalia is far from being a country lacking heritage. 

Despite challenges from climate change and international aid cuts, Somalia’s economic growth of 4.1% in 2024 and projected 3.3% in 2025 is higher than that of the US, which managed 2.8% in 2024 and a projected 2.0% in 2025.

The Horn of Africa nation is recognised as one of the oldest trading nations in the world, with a history dating back many centuries. 

Somalia boasts the longest coastline on continental Africa, touching the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, and bordering the Gulf of Aden. 

Historically, Somalia houses some of the wealthiest trading ports, including the Mogadishu port, which is now over a thousand years old, along with notable ports such as Kismayo, Berbera, and Zeila.

Somali culture also boasts deep intellectual roots, earning the nation the title “Nation of Poets”. This widespread practice of poetry originated from the nomadic nature of the Somali tradition, where lyrical words were easier for messengers to remember when sending communications.

Somalia played a critical role in early animal domestication, pioneering the domestication of the camel between the third and second millennia BC. This practice, crucial for nomadic life, subsequently spread throughout North Africa and into ancient Egypt. 

Today, Somalia maintains this legacy, possessing the largest population of camels of any single country, with a growing population estimated at 14 million.

The county’s economy is heavily reliant on livestock, which accounts for upwards of 40% of the GDP and 50% of the country’s export earnings. Chief exports include camels and other livestock, hides, fish, frankincense, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.

While the country faces significant challenges, including decades of clan-based conflict and the ongoing fight against al-Shabab, it is actively supported by international partners, such as the  World Bank , which is engaged in initiatives aimed at creating jobs, providing social protection, and enhancing climate resilience, benefiting over 738,000 Somalis.

The results reflect a shift in public sentiment following July’s House of Councillors election, with growing concerns about social impact and security. 

When asked to choose from a list of possible effects of having more foreigners living in Japan, 68% said public safety would worsen, while 63% feared difficulties due to cultural and language differences. 

At the same time, however, 61% acknowledged a key benefit: that foreign workers could ease persistent labour shortages in an ageing society .

Younger Japanese appeared especially anxious about safety. Among respondents aged 18 to 39, almost eight in ten said they believed public security would deteriorate if more foreign nationals settled in Japan. That compares with 72% in the 40–59 age group and 59% among those aged 60 and above. 

Yet older people were also more likely to recognise the economic advantages of welcoming migrants: 67% of respondents over 60 said foreign workers help fill labour gaps, compared with 53% in the youngest group.

On the topic of national politics , dissatisfaction remains deep. A record 88% of respondents reported dissatisfaction with the current political situation. For the first time since tracking began in 2018, a majority, or 52%, said they favoured change over stability in national leadership.

Despite this rising discontent, the LDP remains the party most voters want to see in government , backed by 48% of respondents. It was followed by the Democratic Party for the People with 31%, and both the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the Japan Innovation Party at 25%.

The mail-in survey was conducted nationwide between September 24 and October 31, spanning the end of the Ishiba Cabinet and the start of the Takaichi administration.

The move marks a significant shift in a country that maintains a strict ban on dual citizenship. For decades, those with mixed heritage or long-term family connections to Indonesia have been forced to choose between legal status and emotional belonging, often leaving many feeling distanced from the country despite deep roots.

The policy is aimed particularly at former Indonesian nationals and members of the Indonesian diaspora who have either lost or never held Indonesian citizenship. It also addresses long-standing challenges faced by foreigners married to Indonesian citizens, who have historically been restricted by complex residency rules.

Announcing the programme, Minister of Immigration and Correctional Affairs Agus Andrianto said the GCI was designed to resolve the longstanding debate around dual nationality. 

“GCI is a solution to answer the dual citizenship policy with the broad right to stay for foreign nationals (WNA) who have strong ties with Indonesia, without changing their citizenship status and without violating the rules of other nations,” he said.

He added that the new policy demonstrates Indonesia’s capacity to keep pace with global migration trends. 

“GCI is a solution addressing the polemic of dual nationality by granting extensive residency rights to foreigners closely connected to Indonesia, without changing their foreign citizenship status and without violating national regulations,” he said.

According to the Ministry of Immigration, eligible individuals include former Indonesian citizens; their descendants up to the second generation; spouses of Indonesians or former Indonesians; and children born to a legally recognised mixed-nationality marriage.

The programme will not be universally available. Those excluded include applicants from countries once within Indonesia’s territorial borders, foreign military personnel, intelligence officers and individuals involved in separatist movements.

The GCI sits alongside Indonesia’s existing visa categories, including the much-publicised Golden Visa, which targets major investors and highly skilled professionals and offers residency for five to ten years. For tourists or short-stay visitors—particularly in popular destinations such as Bali—the 30-day e-Visa on Arrival remains the standard option and can be extended once.

Minister Andrianto said the ministry would ensure that the GCI offers legal clarity, administrative simplicity and international competitiveness. 

He pointed to similar schemes overseas, such as India’s Overseas Citizenship of India programme, as evidence that such policies can succeed without compromising sovereignty.

For Andrianto, this reform signalled a shift in Indonesia’s immigration philosophy. 

“Indonesian Immigration will always respond to global needs and challenges. GCI is proof that our immigration policy is not static, but will continue to transform following the development of the times,” he said.

He confirmed the measure would take immediate effect but stressed that single-entry visas would not be affected. 

"What I'm saying today is about a multiple-entry visa. That means a single-entry visa remains possible. There's stronger scrutiny, but I'm not going to speculate about any future actions," he added.

The move marks a tightening of EU travel restrictions on Russian citizens amid continuing tensions over the war in Ukraine . 

On Thursday, the Commission said it could not prevent Russians from obtaining single-entry visas, as decisions on those applications rest with individual member states.

Multiple-entry Schengen visas allow holders to travel freely between countries in the Schengen zone, while single-entry visas limit travellers to one entry.

Moscow had not issued an official response at the time of publication.

“Citizens have stopped coming to Portugal and have started going to other countries,” he said, citing a decline in arrivals from Brazil , India, Angola, Pakistan, Nepal, and other key migrant communities.

While the government argues the law is necessary to regulate and control migration, Macedo stressed that Portugal cannot afford to close its doors.

“Portugal needs immigrants,” he insisted. “To meet the goals of the Portugal 2030 plan and the Recovery and Resilience Program (RRP), more immigrants are needed, from Brazil or anywhere else,” he told Viory.

Portugal, which faces an ageing population and labour shortages across sectors such as construction, agriculture, hospitality, and care services, has long relied on immigration to sustain its workforce. 

Macedo acknowledged the government’s desire for clearer rules but argued that overly rigid restrictions will “complicate the Portuguese economy ,” undermining growth at a time when labour demand remains high.

According to the Country Similarity Index , a data-driven ranking that compares nations across five major dimensions, the United States’ closest cultural cousin is its neighbour to the north, Canada, with a striking similarity score of 79.2.

Trailing behind Canada are fellow English-speaking democracies Australia (71.8), New Zealand (70.5), and Great Britain (69.7), with Puerto Rico tying Britain at 69.7, which is unsurprising given its political connection to the U.S.

Ireland (67.3) rounds out the top five before the ranking widens to include European partners like Germany, France, Norway, and Switzerland. These nations share much of the United States’ institutional, infrastructural, and political framework, even if geography and some cultural elements diverge.

Canada and the U.S. not only share the longest undefended border in the world, but their economies are closely integrated under the USMCA trade agreement, their media and entertainment industries cross-pollinate, and both societies are shaped by waves of immigration and shared democratic norms.

The inclusion of Australia and New Zealand reflects a similar pattern, countries built on British colonial legal systems, English language dominance, and comparable political models. Even across the Atlantic, Germany, France, Norway, and Switzerland land on the list thanks to their high standard of living , advanced infrastructure, and liberal democratic traditions, making them natural partners for Washington on global issues.

This cultural and institutional proximity carries weight in today’s geopolitical climate. It explains why the U.S. often finds it easier to coordinate policy and form coalitions with these nations, whether in trade negotiations, climate summits, or military alliances.

Canada and the U.S., for example, are currently negotiating joint energy and security frameworks, while Australia and New Zealand are playing central roles in the U.S.’s Indo-Pacific strategy.

Across the Atlantic, Germany and France continue to collaborate with Washington on everything from NATO’s security posture to AI governance frameworks, even amid occasional tensions over industrial policy.

While most states demand both parties be present at the ceremony, a handful make room for marriage-by-proxy, and one state even allows both partners to be completely absent.

In the majority of states, the rules are straightforward and require both parties to attend the ceremony in person for the marriage to be valid. But in Texas, Colorado, and Kansas, at least one partner can be absent, provided proper authorisation is in place.

Montana stands out as the most unusual case; it is the only state that permits a “ double proxy marriage ,” where neither spouse is physically present. Instead, legal representatives can stand in for both parties, sign the paperwork, and solemnise the marriage on their behalf.

These exceptions are not open invitations to marry from afar without reason. States that allow proxy marriages generally limit them to specific circumstances, such as when one spouse is serving in the military or is otherwise unable to attend.

In Texas, for example, the absent spouse must be on active duty in the armed forces. Montana requires that at least one spouse be a resident of the state or an active-duty service member. Both states require notarised consent and proper documentation to ensure the marriage is legitimate.

Proxy marriages carry significant implications beyond the wedding day. For immigration purposes, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recognises marriages that are legally valid in the jurisdiction where they were celebrated, the so-called “place-of-celebration rule.”

However, for a proxy marriage to count for visa or residency applications, the couple must later consummate the marriage, providing proof of the relationship’s legitimacy.

The renewed interest in proxy marriage laws comes amid broader global conversations about what it means to be legally married in an era where physical presence is not always possible.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, travel bans and health restrictions forced couples to seek alternatives, spurring growth in remote weddings and virtual ceremonies worldwide. These trends continue today, particularly for couples separated by military deployment, immigration hurdles, or even conflict.

A high-profile deal with the United Kingdom, which promised deportees clean accommodations, daily meals, recreational facilities, and satellite television, ultimately collapsed after UK courts deemed Rwanda unsafe for asylum seekers. 

This was despite London committing nearly $500 million, along with individual resettlement payments.

The US is expected to provide significantly less. 

Under a previous agreement, the Trump administration allocated just $6 million to support 300 deportees sent to El Salvador, prompting concerns about the level of care and resources available in Kigali.

While Rwanda remains associated in the global sphere with the 1994 genocide, the country has since rebuilt its image. It is now considered one of Africa’s fastest-growing and most stable economies.

President Paul Kagame, in power since 2000, is widely credited with restoring order and spearheading Rwanda’s development. However, his administration has drawn criticism for eroding democratic freedoms, restricting press and political opposition, and allegedly supporting rebel activity in neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo.

As the deportation deal proceeds, questions remain about how deportees will be treated — whether they are seen as security threats or simply undocumented individuals.

So how did they end up in the small African kingdom of Eswatini?

That was the question everyone was asking when the news broke on Tuesday that the men had been flown across the Atlantic and incarcerated in a country best known for its safaris and traditional monarchy.

There was no word from either side about what deal had been done, although, as always with Donald Trump, rumours swirled about tariff deals.

Eswatini, it turns out, doesn't trade that much with America - sending around $30 million dollars of goods a year. About 85% of those exports are linked to a single product, sugar.

Which is where Coca-Cola comes in. In most of the world , the company is a huge consumer of sugar, but the USA has always been different. Because of the difficulty of sourcing enough cane sugar to supply the huge demand, the drinks maker uses high-fructose syrup made from locally grown corn.

For years, there have been concerns that the practice contributes to America's obesity epidemic. US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jnr has been a particular opponent and seems to have convinced Trump, a famous consumer of no-sugar Diet Coke. Which is how, hours after the news of the deportations broke, Trump made an announcement which gained even more attention on the world stage. Coke would switch its production to use cane sugar.

Coincidence? Possibly. But in Trump's America, you never know.

The case has drawn public criticism and raised concerns about the UK's visa policies toward Nigerian nationals.

Samuel Onyekachi Ibeawuchi, the head of Bkay Security Ltd, along with his wife and 18-month-old child, were denied a UK visitor visa. The company has reportedly provided security services for former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, international political figures, and footballer Alex Iwobi.

What happened?

The family planned to travel to the UK for a three-week visit to see relatives. Despite presenting extensive documentation, including business credentials and assurances of financial and logistical support from family members in the UK, their visa application was rejected.

The family intended to stay with Ibeawuchi’s sister, Hope Ibeawuchi-Beales, and her husband, Nick Beales.

Ibeawuchi, his wife, and their 18-month-old child planned to visit his sister, Hope Ibeawuchi-Beales, and her husband, Nick Beales, this summer. The Beales family had pledged financial and logistical support for the trip.

Why was the visa denied?

The Home Office stated that the provided sponsorship did not prove the applicant’s intention to return to Nigeria after the visit. It also raised doubts about the legitimacy of Ibeawuchi’s self-employed income, even though he had submitted official business documentation.

Nick Beales, head of campaigning at the migrant rights group Ramfel, condemned the decision, claiming, “There’s no doubt that the UK government refused these visa applications as part of their overtly racist crackdown on Nigerians.”

Ibeawuchi responded with disappointment, stating: “I feel very bad that the Home Office refused us. We do not want to stay in the UK, just to come here to visit our family for three weeks.”

The incident surfaces at a time of heightened immigration controls, with the UK recording net migration figures of 906,000 in 2023 and 782,000 in 2024. Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently pledged tighter immigration measures, further intensifying visa scrutiny. In a speech delivered in May, he vowed to "take back control" with new rules that make it harder to obtain a visa to the United Kingdom.

African nations experience some of the highest rates of visa rejection globally. In 2024, the continent collectively incurred losses amounting to tens of millions of euros in non-refundable application fees due to denials of EU visas. Nigeria topped this list, facing a loss of €4.3 million to EU visa rejections.

According to the 2020 U.S. Religion Census , Islam ranks as the second largest religion in the majority of states, including California, Texas, New York, and Florida, reflecting the growth of Muslim communities in both urban and suburban areas.

Judaism claims the second spot in several key states like New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Maryland, thanks to historically strong Jewish communities, especially in the Northeast.

Buddhism emerges as the second-largest religion in states like Montana, Idaho, and New Mexico , where immigration and refugee resettlement programs have contributed to vibrant Buddhist communities.

Hinduism holds the second position in Delaware, while the Bahá’í faith is the second largest in South Dakota—an interesting reflection of the smaller, but committed, religious minorities in those states.

The 2020 Religion Census compiled data from denominational reports, surveys, and community records, making it one of the most comprehensive religion surveys in the U.S. The patterns it reveals underscore the interplay of immigration, cultural heritage, and socio-economic dynamics in shaping America ’s religious makeup.

For example:

Travellers’ information will be cross-referenced with data from foreign embassies to identify individuals on watchlists or blacklists. The data will then be shared with the Tourist Police and local law enforcement units for monitoring and tracking purposes.

Pol Gen Kittharath said travellers entering Thailand on tourist or student visas will be subject to heightened scrutiny.

The announcement comes in response to increasing concerns about prostitution networks operated by foreign nationals in key nightlife districts such as Sukhumvit, Soi Cowboy, and Nana in Bangkok.

According to Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, the drivers are accustomed to older manual trucks and were overwhelmed by the sophisticated technology . “Many could not feed the required information regarding their preferred directions through tapping onto the screen,” he said at a press conference.

Despite completing advanced training programs and additional courses before deployment, the drivers were deemed unfit for the roles upon arrival in Doha.

Qatar, which has more than 800 vacancies for truck drivers, had allocated between 200 and 350 positions specifically for Tanzanian nationals. The recruitment initiative was coordinated through the Tanzanian Embassy in Doha and the Qatari transport company Mowasalat-Karwa, following bilateral discussions held in March 2025.

Mowasalat had planned to send a delegation to Tanzania in May to conduct practical driving assessments, but those trials were instead carried out in Qatar.

Officials on both sides had seen the recruitment initiative as a step toward strengthening economic ties and addressing employment challenges. Tanzania’s Ambassador to Qatar, Habibu Awesi Mohamed, and Mowasalat’s Government and Employment Relations Manager, Khalid Al Rahiya, had led the negotiations.

In light of the failed deployment, Tanzanian authorities are considering importing a prototype of the high-tech trucks to facilitate hands-on training for future candidates at NIT.

Under this new plan , people entering the country illegally could also be expelled immediately.

The plan also includes tougher requirements for gaining residency and citizenship. Foreigners would need to live continuously in Argentina for at least two years without leaving to qualify.

Those who use public healthcare or education services may also be required to pay for them.

Adorni said the changes aim to protect law-abiding immigrants and local residents. “

All those convicted of committing a crime will be deported,” he was quoted by local reports as saying.

The new policy could also allow public universities to charge fees to foreign students. In addition, any foreigner with a criminal record could be denied entry at border crossings.

Adorni argued that nearly 1.7 million undocumented migrants have entered Argentina in the past two decades, placing a heavy burden on the public healthcare system.

He also criticised "health tourists", including people from neighbouring countries who travel to Argentina to receive free treatment and then return home.

He said the new rules are not meant to punish those who follow the law but to ensure fairness.

The government , led by President Javier Milei, says the goal is to welcome immigrants who want to help build a better country, but only within the boundaries of the law.

Those interested in the program are being instructed to use a government-run app called CBP Home , which was originally introduced during the Biden administration to manage legal border entries. The app now allows migrants to register their intent to leave the country.

Under the program, participants who demonstrate they are actively preparing to depart will not be prioritised for arrest or detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The DHS said the $1,000 stipend will be issued once a departure has been confirmed.

Officials are promoting the program as a more “dignified” option compared to arrest and forced deportation. They also argue it will save money. The government estimates that detaining and deporting a person through standard procedures costs more than $17,000.

The administration says thousands have already self-deported under similar past efforts, though this is the first time financial incentives and flight assistance are being offered at this scale.

Immigration advocates say the promise of cash and reprieve from detention could put pressure on vulnerable migrants to leave the country, even if they have strong ties to the U.S. Many who have lived in the U.S. illegally for over a year face a 10-year ban on reentry once they depart.

While DHS officials claim that voluntary departures could make it easier for individuals to apply to return legally in the future, immigration lawyers note that most applicants without family or employer sponsors are unlikely to qualify for a visa.

It remains to be seen how widely the new program will be used and what its long-term implications will be for immigration policy and affected communities.

Concerning the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a migrant deported to El Salvador against a court order, respondents exhibited a preference for his return to the U.S. over his continued imprisonment in El Salvador, with support for return at 42% compared to 26% favoring his current situation. However, a notable 30% stated they lacked sufficient information to make a judgment about the case.

When addressing the general issue of deportations, public sentiment appears bifurcated. Approximately 48% of those surveyed believe Trump is "going too far" with deportations, whereas 50% expressed satisfaction with his actions, asserting that he is handling the situation either appropriately (34%) or not aggressively enough (16%).

On the specific topic of deporting undocumented immigrants accused of gang affiliation to El Salvador without judicial hearings, 47% voiced support, but opposition remains at 51%. Interestingly, support drops significantly to 39% for the deportation of international students who have criticized U.S. policy in the Middle East , with a majority, 59%, opposed to such action.

The poll further uncovers distinct partisan divides. Approximately 90% of Republicans approve of Trump's immigration policies, whereas only about 10% of Democrats agree. Among independents, 45% express approval. The survey also indicates that a substantial 85% of Democrats feel that Trump is overreaching regarding deportation actions, whereas 60% of Republicans believe he is managing it correctly.

Demographic trends emerge as well. Hispanic respondents exhibited a clear disapproval of Trump's immigration stance at 67%, while gender divisions are present; a significant number of women disapprove (58%) as compared to men (nearly equal views). Age differences also play a role, with younger citizens (under 40) disapproving at a rate of 59%, versus 48% among those aged 50 and older.

Conducted from April 18-22, 2025, this online poll surveyed 2,464 adults in both English and Spanish. It is part of a broader investigation into how American views on immigration remain fluid and highly variable based on various factors, including political affiliation, demographics, and personal experiences. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points, with larger error margins for individual subgroups.

People entering or leaving India must carry valid travel documents, including a passport and visa. Anyone caught without proper documents could face up to five years in jail and a fine of ₹5 lakh ($6,000).

The government is also cracking down on fake documents.

Persons found guilty of using or submitting false papers could be fined between ₹1 lakh ($1,200) and ₹10 lakh ($12,000).

Also, foreigners who stay in India after their visa expires or break visa rules may be arrested leading to a jail term of up to three years or a fine of ₹3 lakh ($3,600).

Under these new rules, hotels, schools, and hospitals that provide accommodation for foreigners must report their details to the authorities to help officials track those who overstay their visas.

Airlines and shipping companies must also check that foreign passengers have valid travel documents. If they fail to do so, they will face heavy fines.

Officials will have the power to cancel or deny a visa if they believe a person is a threat to national security.

In Rosso, a Senegalese city bordering Mauritania, deported migrants have shared chilling testimonies of abuse at the hands of Mauritanian authorities. Many describe beatings, arbitrary detentions, and dire conditions in overcrowded detention facilities.

“They beat us up, they took us to prison without telling us anything. After that, they threw us all out at the border," Ismaila Bangoura, a Guinean carpenter who had been working in Mauritania, told the AFP.

Ramatoulaye Camara, another Guinean citizen, described the grim realities of imprisonment in Mauritania.  “Currently in Mauritania, it’s not good. We suffered a lot. I was in prison for 10 days, with no food, no help. I am pregnant, and I was there with my daughter. The police tortured the boys, they even tortured me. They took my money, my phone—everything. We endured a lot of suffering,” she said.

Adding that “More than 500-600 people were locked in a cage, with no food and unbearable heat. The Mauritanian police hit me. I don’t even know why—whether it was because of the papers, the residence permit, or something else. They just said, ‘You are leaving our country.’”

Bangoura further lamented that several deportees were left in dire health conditions, suffering from injuries inflicted during their detention. “It’s really deplorable,” said Bangoura. “They beat me up, and I have gastritis. They hit me in the chest, and now I can barely breathe. I can’t even run. I called my sister to send me money just so I could buy some medicine .”

Local humanitarian organizations in Rosso are struggling to assist the growing number of traumatized deportees. Mbaye Diop, President of the local Red Cross committee, confirmed that many of those arriving show visible signs of abuse. “Sometimes we receive people who have been expelled, and you can see the after-effects of physical violence on their bodies. Some even lose their minds upon arrival. We do our best to assist them, but the situation is overwhelming,” said Diop.

Meanwhile, Mauritanian authorities are yet to respond to the allegations.

Wagan was reportedly on a personal trip when US immigration officials stopped him at the airport. After reviewing his documents, they refused to let him enter the country.

He was then put on a flight back to his departure point.

According to reports , the US immigration system flagged “controversial visa references” linked to Wagan, although American authorities have not publicly explained the reason for his deportation.

A Pakistani Foreign Ministry official confirmed the situation , saying, “Ambassador KK Wagan was deported from the US. He had an immigration objection which led to his deportation.”

The government in Islamabad is now looking into the matter, and the Foreign Ministry has asked its Los Angeles consulate to investigate. Officials are also considering recalling Wagan to Pakistan for further questioning.

Wagan is a senior diplomat with years of experience in Pakistan’s foreign service. Before being posted in Turkmenistan, he worked at the country’s embassy in Nepal and later held a key position at the Los Angeles consulate.

The incident comes shortly after reports that the US government, under President Donald Trump, is planning new travel restrictions on Pakistan.

If these measures are implemented, they could make it harder for Pakistani citizens to enter the US.

This policy shift is largely seen as a direct response to the economic risks posed by potential U.S. tariffs, which could severely impact Vietnam's trade-dependent economy.

As per the recent agreement, Vietnam will process deportation requests within 30 days, significantly reducing past delays that often lasted months or years.

Immigration lawyer Tin Thanh Nguyen announced that Vietnam will also furnish travel documents for up to 30 detained Vietnamese nationals.

The shift in policy comes following explicit warnings from U.S. officials, including Brian Hughes from the National Security Council, who stated that all nations must repatriate their citizens or risk facing sanctions.

Although the Vietnamese Foreign Ministry has yet to comment publicly, earlier communications highlighted Vietnam's commitment to comply with U.S. repatriation agreements.

This development occurs amidst a wider context of increasing deportations by the U.S., with over 37,000 people being removed in the first month of President Trump's second term. While the exact number of Vietnamese nationals deported remains unclear, it has been reported that some have already been sent to Panama.

Released in January 2025, the report found that more than 50,000 international students across Canada were missing from their schools.

Most were from India, with nearly 20,000 unaccounted for. China, Nigeria, and Ghana also had high numbers of missing students.

Canadian universities and colleges are required to report to immigration officials twice a year on whether international students are actually studying. These reports help the government track if students are following the rules of their study permits.

While thousands of Ghanaian students have disappeared, many others are still attending school.

The report confirmed that 5,881 Ghanaian students, or about 67% of those enrolled, are actively taking classes.

The situation has raised concerns that some people may be using student visas to enter Canada for other reasons.

According to local reports , experts are now suggesting that international students should pay their tuition fees in full before arriving.

This, according to them, could stop people from using study permits as a way to move to Canada without actually going to school.

Officials say migrants are being beaten, starved, and even burned with melted plastic, while others are also victims of sexual violence.

In some cases, when traffickers fail to get ransom money, they shoot the migrants and bury them in the desert. Survivors and arrested traffickers have confirmed these brutal acts.

Security forces have begun destroying buildings used to hold migrants before they are sold to other traffickers. Authorities say this is part of efforts to stop the trade in human lives.

Meanwhile, in southeastern Libya, officials have started digging up the bodies of 58 migrants buried in the desert near Al-Kufra. DNA tests will be carried out to confirm their identities and determine how they died.

African countries most impacted by USAID suspension

The recent suspension of USAID funding has left several African nations scrambling to fill the financial gap left by the U.S. withdrawal. Who are the most affected countries and how have they been affected? Read more here .

The rise and early fall of the Central African Republic’s experimental cryptocurrency

The Central African Republic (CAR), under the leadership of President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, has ventured into the world of cryptocurrency with an experimental memecoin aimed at fostering national unity and economic development. Read more here

Why Trump and Musk are accusing South Africa of human rights violations

Over the past week, United States (US) president Donald Trump, tech entrepreneur Elon Musk on one hand, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on the other, have been involved in an open standoff concerning the latter’s new land expropriation law. Here’s what the controversy is about. Read more here .

Latin America

Colombia migrants decry degrading treatment, but American dream remains for some

Colombian migrants deported from the United States in the early days of President Donald Trump's administration say they experienced degrading treatment, but some said they still want to try and return to the United States. Read more here .

Cuba tells non-essential workers, students to stay home in latest blackout

Cuba closed schools and told non-essential workers to stay home on Friday as its electrical grid faltered following the failure of a major power plant, causing widespread blackouts across the crisis-ridden island. Read more here .

El Salvador to house minors convicted of organized crime in adult jails

El Salvador's Congress voted on Wednesday to allow minors convicted of crimes linked to organized crime to be housed in the same prisons as adults, albeit in separate areas. The measure would apply to children under 18 who belong to gangs and have been prosecuted for major crimes such as homicide, kidnappings and arms trafficking, Congress said. Read more here .

Asia

14-year-old Indian "Human Calculator " sets six math world records in a single day

Aaryan Shukla, a 14-year-old from Maharashtra, India, has stunned the world with his extraordinary mental math skills, breaking six world records in a single day. He has been recognised by the Guinness World Records. Read more here .

Thailand cracks down on foreign teachers without work permits

Thai authorities are taking strict action against foreign teachers working without the right papers. Officials have started checking language schools in Bangkok after eight South Korean teachers were caught working illegally last week. Read more here.

Indonesia launches $183 million free health screening to prevent early deaths

Indonesia launched an annual free health screening on Monday, a 3 trillion rupiah ($183.54 million) initiative to prevent early deaths that the country's health ministry said was its biggest-ever undertaking. Read more here .

Two Colombian military planes brought back around 200 deportees following a diplomatic clash between Colombia and the US over President Donald Trump’s renewed mass deportation policies.

Gomez recounted distressing experiences at the detention center, claiming, "We were in the cell, and they threw our food on the floor. That’s outrageous to me. That’s horrible." He further described the inadequate conditions, noting, "The food was horrible, and we were locked up sleeping for 10 to 12 hours with nothing else to do. We didn’t even know whether it was day or night." 

The mass deportations, part of Trump's controversial immigration policy, have drawn criticism from several Latin American governments, including Colombia, Guatemala, and Mexico. Despite the recent escalation, many of the deportations stem from agreements made before Trump's return to office.

Colombia's government has condemned the treatment of its citizens and is assessing possible diplomatic responses.

The pressure on ICE escalated following President Donald Trump's inauguration, aligning with his administration's strict immigration policies.

One significant aspect of this approach includes an executive order that revises birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, provoking discussion about its implications.

This policy has raised concerns among immigration rights advocates who fear increased family separations and possible human rights violations. While critics suggest the focus on Somalia may relate to security issues due to its political instability, no direct connections have been confirmed by ICE or the administration.

U.S. government officials justify these aggressive measures on the basis of public safety and the enforcement of current laws. However, these actions have ignited protests and legal challenges from various advocacy groups worried about their humanitarian impact and potential repercussions on international relations.

As ICE continues its deportation operations, global reactions vary. Some nations are preparing to receive their citizens while others express concern about the humanitarian responses to such deportations.

The deportation was carried out by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

According to the minister, the government did not find any criminal activities linked to those deported. He explained that the exercise was simply to enforce Nigeria’s immigration laws.

Nigeria’s constitution requires foreigners to have valid permits to live in the country. The NIS estimates that about 300,000 illegal immigrants, mainly from Chad, Niger, Benin, and Cameroon, are currently in Nigeria.

The minister also announced that residency permits for expatriates will no longer be renewed automatically, local reports indicate.

Special reasons must now be provided for any renewal requests.

This action is part of Nigeria’s effort to manage its immigration system and ensure that all residents comply with the law.

Historical migration patterns, economic opportunities, and social factors influence each department's unique demographic composition .

Paris, in the heart of France, hosts a diverse immigrant population. The most prevalent foreign nationality is Moroccan. The Moroccan community has been a significant part of Parisian life, contributing to the city's multicultural fabric.

Seine-Saint-Denis, part of the Greater Paris area, has the highest proportion of immigrants in France. The most common foreign nationality here is Algerian, reflecting the historical ties between France and Algeria, which stem from the colonial period.

Rhône, which includes the city of Lyon, has a substantial immigrant population. The most common foreign nationality in this department is Portuguese. The Portuguese community has a long history in the region, particularly in the construction and service industries.

In the northern department of Nord, the most common foreign nationality is Belgian. The country's proximity to Belgium has facilitated cross-border movement and settlement.

President Donald Trump reinstated the "Mexico City Policy," which bans U.S. government funding for foreign organisations that provide or promote abortions. This executive order revokes former President Joe Biden's directive that eliminated the policy, originally established by Ronald Reagan in 1985. According to CNA , the rule prohibits taxpayer support for foreign NGOs involved in abortion-related activities, though foreign governments are exempt. Pro-life advocates praised the reinstatement, while Democratic leaders, like Sen. Patty Murray, criticized it as a dangerous restriction on reproductive health services. Trump also targeted Biden's policies linked to the Hyde Amendment, which restricts federal funding for abortions in the U.S.

Migrants in shackles led on to US military plane

US military aircraft, under orders from President Donald Trump, have begun flying detained migrants out of the country, marking a rare use of military planes for this purpose. The first deportation flights carried about 160 migrants to Guatemala, while another flight intended for Mexico was denied access by Mexican authorities. The operation aligns with Trump’s commitment to combat illegal immigration, highlighted by increasing arrests across the US, nearly doubling ICE's daily average. Additionally, Trump plans to deploy more military personnel to the southern border and prioritise the deportation of migrants with criminal backgrounds. Critics have raised concerns over ICE's methods, including conducting workplace raids without warrants, Sky News reports.

Mexico denies US deportation flight landing after miscommunication

A miscommunication regarding a Defense Department manifest led to Mexico rejecting a U.S. deportation flight this week, although Mexico was otherwise prepared to accept the deportees, according to a senior State Department official. While two Air Force C-17 flights deported approximately 160 illegal immigrants to Guatemala, a third flight to Mexico never took off. As reported by Fox News , tensions surrounding the Trump administration's strict immigration policies, including the controversial "Remain in Mexico" policy, have strained U.S.-Mexico relations. Despite this incident, the State Department noted that Mexico has cooperated effectively throughout the week, and Trump has deployed 1,500 troops to the southern border as part of his immigration crackdown.

US officially renames Gulf of Mexico and Denali Peak

The US Department of the Interior has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and Denali Peak in Alaska to Mount McKinley, following an executive order by President Trump. This decision aims to honour US heritage and historical figures. The renaming has elicited mixed responses, particularly from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who criticised US dominance and humorously suggested renaming the US to "Mexican America." She emphasised the importance of dialogue and asserted that Mexico will not be subordinate to the US, Shafaq News reports.

Mexican sailor returns home after 14 months in Houthi rebel captivity

Mexican sailor Arturo Zacarías Meza returned to his hometown of Misantla, Veracruz, on January 24, 2025, after being held captive by Houthi rebels in Yemen for 14 months. He was part of the crew of the cargo ship Galaxy Leader, seized by the rebels in November 2023 while transiting the Red Sea. Celebrations welcomed Zacarías home, where neighbours prepared his favourite dish, carnitas, and a band played his favourite song. AP highlights that the crew, consisting of members from various countries, was initially held aboard the ship before being moved to a safe house as they gained the trust of their captors. Their release was facilitated by Oman, and Zacarías expressed gratitude for his safe return, wearing a shirt featuring the Virgin of Guadalupe.

In border towns like Eagle Pass, residents have expressed a mixture of concern, support, and scepticism.

"We do see them (migrants) coming through here, they do cause maybe to ranches, there might be problems because they trespass, they cause, you know, properties are damaged or whatever. But eventually, I guess, you know, at the end of the day, they mean no harm," said Ismael Castillo.

Conversely, some residents support the deployment, believing it will enhance security and reduce illegal immigration.

"I feel with him (Donald Trump) sending troops this way, there would just be less activity. And yeah, I think we would feel a bit safer being in the ranch and not have to worry about who's going to be coming through and what their intentions are,"Maria Aguado added.

The Philippines announced on January 22 that the Southeast Asian nation is set to host the prestigious Miss Tourism International pageant in November 2025. Established in 1994, Miss Tourism International is the world's oldest tourism pageant. 45 to 50 contestants from around the world will vie for the coveted title in the 28th edition. 

Philippine-US relations under Trump presidency

Philippine Ambassador to the US, Jose Manuel "Babe" Romualdez, has reassured citizens that the Philippines’ interests remain secure under the current US administration. He underscored the robust partnership rooted in mutual defence treaties and emphasised the US’s value for the Philippines regarding contentious issues in the South China Sea. However, Romualdez expressed concerns over Donald Trump’s immigration policies affecting undocumented Filipinos, suggesting an exodus to mitigate potential deportation risks—especially pertinent as the Philippines ranked as the sixth-largest source of undocumented immigrants in the US, with an estimated 309,000 individuals in 2021. 

Tourism agreement with India

The Philippines' Department of Tourism (DOT) is poised to implement a strategic tourism agreement with India. This initiative aims to enhance air connectivity to crucial destinations, such as Manila. During a bilateral discussion with Indian Tourism Minister Shri Gajendar Singh Shekhawat at the ASEAN-India Tourism Ministers Meeting, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco elaborated on plans to enact the implementation programme stemming from a 2019 Memorandum of Cooperation. This programme is centred on improving air connectivity and collaborative marketing to stimulate tourism figures, accounting for the mere 79,000 Indian tourists who visited the Philippines out of five million arriving in Southeast Asia. 

Religious organisations stage political rallies ahead of midterm elections

Ahead of the May 12, 2025, midterm elections, religious organisations in the Philippines amid the public rivalry unfolding between Vice President Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., are staging sizable political rallies—one reportedly amassing an attendance of one million. Analyses suggest a lukewarm potential for these faith-driven demonstrations to genuinely impact voter behaviour, having observed prior elections where endorsements yielded negligible results. Religious groups such as Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) and Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) are uniting in support of Duterte, while the Catholic Church, alongside evangelical and civil society entities, is orchestrating an “indignation rally” against both political figures. Scholars argue that rallying efforts should effectively merge moral messaging with a cogent political critique to retain engagement and credibility. 

Death penalty for corruption 

In a bid to tackle endemic corruption within governmental institutions, a newly proposed legislative measure in the Philippines, known as the Death Penalty for Corruption Act, initiated by Khymer Adan Olaso, representative of Zamboanga del Norte, one of the three congressional districts of the Philippines, is seeking a firing squad execution for public officials found guilty of severe corrupt practices. The bill is applicable to all government officials and emphasises a stringent adherence to due process, necessitating Supreme Court ratification and an automatic appellate review of convictions. 

These moves, according to political analyst Todd Belt, signal that immigration is his 'number one issue.'

Belt, director of the Political Management Master’s Programme at George Washington University, noted that Trump’s actions underline his dedication to immigration issues and his "America-first" policy.

“Some of these things were in line with his promises to end birthright citizenship. A lot of people thought that might have been just rhetoric, but he was serious about it,” Belt told AFP. 

“The issue of birthright citizenship can be seen as a symbolic one to his base,” he added.

These executive orders highlight Trump’s intent to make good on his campaign commitments to reshape U.S. immigration policy.

Aside from ending birthright citizenship for children born to individuals unlawfully or temporarily in the United States, key decisions announced include halting all refugee admissions until policies are aligned with US interests, requiring unauthorised immigrants to register and be fingerprinted, and denying public benefits to individuals without legal status.

The European Union (EU) continues to be a major destination for immigrants from around the world.

According to Eurostat , the EU saw a record 3.7 million people become first-time residents in 2023.

This influx of immigrants is driven by various factors, including political instability, economic opportunities, and social challenges in their home countries.

Here are the top 10 countries sending the most immigrants to the EU:

Ukraine: Ukraine tops the list with 307,313 first-time residence permits issued in 2023. The ongoing geopolitical unrest and conflict have driven many Ukrainians to seek safety and new opportunities in the EU.

Belarus: Belarus saw a significant increase in migration to the EU, with 281,279 residence permits issued. Political instability and economic hardships following the 2020 political crisis have been major factors.

India: India ranked third with 207,966 residence permits. Many skilled professionals, particularly in technology and engineering, migrate to the EU for better job opportunities.

Morocco: Morocco remains a key contributor to EU immigration, with 179,195 residence permits granted. Historical ties, geographical proximity, and labour opportunities, especially in Spain and France, drive this migration.

Syria: The civil war in Syria pushed people to seek refuge in the EU. In 2023, 168,667 Syrians were granted residence permits.

Turkey : Turkey had 122,128 residence permits issued in 2023. Economic, political, and social pressures, along with its strategic location, contribute to the steady flow of migrants.

Russia: Russia remains a consistent source of migration to the EU, with 115,651 residence permits granted. Political and economic uncertainties drive many Russians to seek opportunities in Europe.

China: China saw 107,680 residence permits issued in 2023. Economic opportunities and educational prospects are significant factors for Chinese immigrants.

Brazil: Brazil had 91,543 residence permits issued. Economic challenges and the search for better living conditions drive many Brazilians to the EU.

Afghanistan: Afghanistan rounds out the top ten with 90,118 residence permits issued. The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis continue to push Afghans to seek safety in the EU

One of the most serious cases involves 380 Ethiopians in Myanmar who according to officials were tricked by illegal brokers with fake job promises in Southeast Asia.

Local reports indicate that they were taken to camps near the border of Myanmar and Thailand, where conditions were very poor upon arrival.

The Ethiopian government recently rescued 34 people from these camps and moved them to safety in Thailand before bringing them home. Officials said it was a tough operation and they are working with embassies in Japan and India to help more people.

The ministry further added that human trafficking networks are involved in these cases. Ethiopia is working with other countries, including Myanmar, to tackle the issue.

In recent years, Ethiopia has worked hard to repatriate citizens, especially from the Middle East. Many were undocumented migrants facing harsh treatment. Recently, 164 Ethiopians were brought home from Lebanon due to growing insecurity.

The government is also working on ways to stop illegal migration, such as breaking up trafficking networks and creating more jobs in Ethiopia.

The decision also comes in the wake of a deadly car-ramming attack at a Christmas market in the western city of Trier last week, which has reignited national debates over security and immigration policies. The tragedy, which claimed several lives and left many injured, has intensified public calls for stronger measures to prevent such attacks and control immigration.

In a televised address, President Steinmeier emphasised the importance of restoring political stability in the country. He urged all political parties to engage in a "campaign of respect and decency," stressing that the upcoming election should focus on Germany's future direction rather than further divisions.

"Dear fellow citizens," Steinmeier said, "I have decided today to dissolve the twentieth German Bundestag and to schedule new elections for the twenty-third of February next year. A letter to this effect has just been handed over to the President of the German Bundestag."

The collapse of Scholz's coalition—comprising the Social Democrats (SPD), Greens, and Free Democrats (FDP)—was the result of deepening tensions over economic recovery strategies, with factions unable to reach a consensus on the best path forward for Europe's largest economy. Scholz's government had faced growing public dissatisfaction, with rising inflation, energy prices, and unemployment contributing to the political crisis.

In the fiscal year 2024 alone, the number of Africans obtaining citizenship through military service tripled to 2,200, compared to just 700 in 2020. Over the four-year period, 3,270 Nigerian-born service members were naturalised, followed by 2,190 from Ghana and 1,750 from Cameroon. Altogether, 52,000 individuals gained US citizenship through military service between FY 2020 and FY 2024.

US law offers special provisions for military members, both current and former, easing certain requirements in the naturalization process. Among all service members naturalised, the top five countries of birth - Philippines, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, and Ghana - accounted for over 38% of the total naturalisations.

Countries like Haiti, China, Cameroon, Vietnam, and South Korea comprised an additional 16%.

Most service members who naturalised during this period were between 22 and 30 years old, with men making up 73% of the total. The percentage of women naturalising through military service has grown slightly over the years, indicating a gradual shift in gender representation.

The individuals were detained on October 7 in raids across Lapu-Lapu City, Pasay City, Tarlac, and Pampanga.

Authorities moved the detainees from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) facility to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport for a flight to Shanghai on December 5.

Many had expired or incorrect documentation, making their stay in the Philippines illegal.

The detainees' working visas were downgraded to tourist visas on October 15, leaving them unable to remain legally.

Local reports indicate that PAOCC Executive Director Gilberto Cruz announced another batch of deportations involving other nationalities would happen this week.

He also stated that the government is helping families left behind by deportees, providing food, medicine, and temporary rent assistance.

This move is part of a broader crackdown on illegal gambling and immigration violations in the Philippines, aimed at improving security and enforcing the law.

The Zimbabweans will be given temporary work and residence permits rather than face deportations like they have over time.

Boko told the BBC he hopes that the large Zimbabwean population fleeing economic woes in their country would be properly recognised and motivated to engage in formal work instead of criminal activities.

"They come in and are undocumented. Then their access to amenities is limited, if it is available at all, and what they then do is they live outside the law and they commit crimes - and this brings resentment," he said.

"So what we need to do is to formalise, have a proper arrangement that recognises that people from Zimbabwe are already here."

President Boko added that the initiative will also provide an opportunity for Botswana citizens to learn basic skills like welding and plumbing from Zimbabweans.

"In any and every construction site in Botswana the majority of people with those skills are from Zimbabwe, so we need to do a twin programme of allowing them to come in and we utilise the skills that they have and in the process of utilising these skills we also engage in some sort of skills transfer," he said.

"We can’t stop people with skills from coming in when we don't have the skills ourselves - we need to develop these skills and it takes time, so in the interregnum we need to have them come in properly, come in legally and be rewarded appropriately for the skills that they bring."

Statistics show that over 98% of immigrants in Botswana are Zimbabweans.

Earlier, a minister said in parliament that of the 13,489 immigrants recorded in Botswana, 13,189 were Zimbabweans.

Most of these immigrants are arrested for lacking papers or being involved in crimes.

Arkota Suleiman Jabonah, a Sudanese refugee, arrived with his family and is adjusting to the assistance the centre provides. "For now, we’ll stay here because we’re new and need help from social workers with applications and job centre forms," he said. "Eventually, once we learn German, we’ll be able to find an apartment on our own."

Marienfelde’s director, Olivija Music, explained that it’s difficult to ask long-term residents to move out to make room for new arrivals. “We’ve been preparing residents for this transition for up to two years,” she told the AFP.

Historically, the Marienfelde Centre housed German citizens from East Berlin who, upon arrival, had rights and pathways to full citizenship. Today’s arrivals face a more complex process, says Bettina Effner, Director of the Marienfelde Memorial Museum.

“The difference now is that these people often endure long processes to determine their residency status - whether they’ll be tolerated or granted residency,” she explained.

For refugees like Layan Al Jazzar, who arrived from Syria with her mother and sister, the journey has been emotionally taxing. “We were crying all the time...we didn’t know anyone or speak the language,” she shared.

As African nations consider what this means for trade, immigration, and foreign policy, many wonder if Trump’s second term will signal new challenges or opportunities.

An “America First” foreign policy 

Ghanaian Political Analyst, Professor Etse Sikanku, anticipates that Trump’s "America First" policy will take precedence, potentially limiting cooperation with African countries. Sikanku suggests that under Trump, the US may become more inward-looking: “America is going to return to its isolationism…to take a backward seat when it comes to global affairs. They'll be less interested in internationalism, less interested in international cooperation, less interested in multiculturalism,” he told GSW’s Wonder Hagan.

African leaders extend congratulations 

Despite concerns, several African leaders have congratulated Trump, expressing a willingness to work with his administration. Somalian President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, whose country recently had a $1.1 billion debt cancelled by the Biden administration, conveyed his eagerness to collaborate on security and peace efforts. For Somalia, struggling with internal conflicts and insurgencies, partnership with the US remains critical.

Key policies of concern for Africa

Trade and economic policies

The future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a programme allowing African exports tax-free access to US markets, is now uncertain. Trump previously indicated he would not renew AGOA when it expires in 2025, advocating instead for a universal 10% tariff on foreign goods. This shift could disrupt the economic benefits that African countries currently enjoy, impacting trade-dependent sectors.

Immigration and travel restrictions 

Trump’s hardline stance on immigration is a concern for many Africans, as migration to the US is a path toward better opportunities for many. During his first term, Trump implemented a travel ban targeting several African nations. With migration at record levels—58,000 African migrants were reported at the US-Mexico border in 2023 alone—a renewed travel ban could further limit African migration options, especially for those fleeing conflict and poverty.

Climate policy and fossil fuels  

Africa’s leaders have voiced the need for support in addressing climate change while balancing energy needs. Trump’s policies on climate are likely to favour fossil fuel expansion, a stance he emphasised in a post-election speech promising to “amp up oil production.” 

“We have more liquid gold than any country in the world… More than Saudi Arabia. We have more than Russia,” said the president-elect to a jubilant Republican crowd.

African nations seeking investment in both fossil fuel and renewable energy may find the Trump administration supportive of the former but potentially restrictive on climate-focused funding.

LGBTQ rights and social policies  

US foreign aid policies under Trump are also likely to shift, particularly concerning social issues like LGBTQ rights. Trump’s stance may appeal to some African leaders who have criticised past US administrations for tying aid to social value conditions. Following Uganda’s recent upholding of an anti-gay law and Ghana’s passage of an anti-gay bill, leaders like Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame have expressed hope for a US partnership rooted in mutual respect rather than “imposing its views and ways of life.”

During his congratulatory message to Trump, Kagame said: “Your clear message has been that the United States should be a partner of choice that attracts by the force of its example, rather than by imposing its views and ways of life on others. I therefore look forward to working with you for the common benefit of both our countries in the years ahead.”

With Trump’s presidency set to begin on January 20, as per the American Constitution's 20th Amendment ,  Africans are preparing for a new era of US-Africa relations. Whether through changes in trade, immigration, or climate policy, Trump’s second term will undoubtedly have implications for the continent. 

A Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient and community advocate, José Patiño, expressed deep anxiety over what a Trump administration could mean for undocumented residents. “Trump is saying 'mass deportations’ across the country. It makes me question if I can truly build a life here,” he said. He added, “It’s a reminder that you can love this country, but it doesn’t always love you back. The American voter is saying, ‘we don’t love you back.’”

Some Hispanic voters supported Trump, believing his policies wouldn’t directly impact them. Patiño noted that, for some, aligning with Trump represents a desire to be associated with success and to avoid being marginalised, even if this alignment may come with risks for their community.

Angel Palazuelos, an undocumented Mexican citizen, shared that Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric deeply unsettles him and his family. “I fear being deported, losing everything I’ve worked for, and being separated from my family,” he said.

However, Palazuelos stressed the need for resilience: “We have to keep reminding people of our humanity. We pay taxes yet receive no public benefits.”

Upon assumption of office, Trump intends to launch mass deportations of millions of undocumented migrants, potentially involving extensive workplace raids and the U.S. military, alongside allocating federal resources to expand the U.S.-Mexico border wall.

This aligns with the country’s broader strategy to adopt innovative solutions for national security.

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the initiative, saying it strengthens Nigeria's security efforts and enhances the country’s capacity to build international partnerships.

“Our nation’s border security, border governance, and border control capabilities have just gotten better,” he said in a statement .

“We join an elite list of countries whose Immigration Officers can conduct 24/7 monitoring with real-time surveillance.”

The announcement was made during the induction ceremony for 123 newly trained officers at the NIS Command and Control Centre. Tunji-Ojo said the induction of the personnel is crucial to implementing Nigeria’s national security goals.

“Today, we take a giant leap by inducting officers who have demonstrated their competence through rigorous training and drills using state-of-the-art technology,” he stated.

Surveillance cameras have been installed at various borders under the 24-hour border watch system for real-time monitoring.

During a press conference on Parliament Hill, Trudeau acknowledged that his government's previous immigration targets, which aimed to welcome 500,000 new permanent residents annually, had not achieved the desired balance between population growth and resource management.

"In the tumultuous times as we emerged from the pandemic, between addressing labour needs and maintaining population growth, we didn't get the balance right," Trudeau stated. "Today, we're announcing that we will reduce the number of immigrants we bring in over the next three years, which will result in a pause in the population growth over the next two years."

Trudeau's government has faced mounting criticism over its immigration policies, particularly regarding the impact on housing affordability. The rapid population growth has been cited as a contributing factor to the housing crisis in many Canadian cities.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasised that the lower immigration numbers would help address the housing shortage and reflect the changing public opinion on immigration.

The revised targets will see a reduction in the number of new permanent residents to 395,000 in 2025, 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 in 2027.

This marks a significant decrease from the previous goals and aims to stabilise population growth, allowing the government to make necessary adjustments to healthcare, housing, and social services.

During the rally, Trump addressed a crowd of supporters, focusing much of his speech on criticising Harris. He described her as "slow" and "lazy," and questioned her intelligence.

"She’s not a smart person, she’s a low IQ person. Millions of Americans are suffering because of inflation, they're losing their jobs, they can’t afford housing, groceries or a car and yet Kamala is importing millions of illegals across our borders and giving them taxpayer benefits at your expense," Trump said.

Kamala on the other hand has described Trump as a fascist , consenting to the same comment from the latter's long-serving White House chief of staff, John F. Kelly who posits Trump is going to return as a dictator if given a second chance.

Additionally, Harris told an enthusiastic audience during a CNN-hosted town hall meeting on Wednesday, October 23 that Trump's political ambition is to create a comeback for the 'enemies within'.

“He's going to sit there, unstable, unhinged, plotting his revenge, plotting his retribution, creating an enemies list,” Harris told an audience outside Philadelphia.