Under the proposal , the legal upper limit for fees to change residence status or extend a period of stay would rise to ¥100,000 ($630) from the current ¥10,000 ($63). The cap for permanent residency applications would jump to ¥300,000 ($1,900), thirty times the current ceiling.

The government has not yet set the final fee levels, but officials noted that permanent residency applications could cost around ¥200,000 ($1,250), while other procedures could range from ¥10,000 ($63) to ¥70,000 ($440), depending on the length of stay.

Japan last raised the statutory cap in 1982. While individual fees have been adjusted within that limit over the years, the ceiling itself has remained unchanged until now.

Immigration authorities said the revision reflects rising costs associated with managing a rapidly growing foreign population and expanding immigration systems.

Japan had a record 4.13 million foreign residents at the end of 2025, according to the Immigration Services Agency.

This higher cap will help cover administrative costs tied to residence examinations as well as broader spending on immigration management, including digitalisation, My Number-linked data systems and services aimed at supporting foreign residents.

Justice Minister Hiroshi Hiraguchi said the changes are intended to ensure foreign nationals “bear an appropriate amount of the costs” related to their entry and residence in Japan.

The bill also introduces plans for Japan’s version of an electronic travel authorisation system, known as JESTA, aimed at screening visa-exempt visitors before they depart for Japan.

Under the system, travellers from the 74 countries and regions that currently enjoy visa-free access would be required to submit travel information online several days before departure. Airlines and cruise operators would be required to deny boarding if authorities determine the traveller should not be permitted entry.

Japan received about 38 million short-term foreign arrivals in 2025, roughly 80% of whom were visa-exempt travellers.

If approved by parliament, the government aims to implement the new fee framework by the end of the next fiscal year in March 2027, while the JESTA system is targeted for introduction by fiscal 2028.

Higher sodium levels would face higher tax rates, similar to the structure used for Thailand’s sugar tax introduced in 2017.

Foods prepared and sold on-site, including fast food, would be exempt from the levy.

This tax would likely be rolled out in phases to allow manufacturers time to adjust product formulations. Under the proposal, the highest-sodium products could initially face lower tax rates for at least six years before stricter thresholds take effect.

“The goal is to encourage manufacturers to reformulate their products and gradually reduce sodium content,” said Rachada Wanikakorn, deputy director-general of the Excise Department.

She noted that implementing a salt tax may be more complicated than the sugar levy because sodium has fewer substitutes in food production.

Why the need for such a tax?

The policy proposal comes as Thailand grapples with widespread excessive sodium intake.

A national health survey conducted in 2024 to 2025 found that Thais aged 15 and above consume an average of about 3,650 milligrams of sodium daily — nearly double the World Health Organization’s recommended maximum of 2,000 milligrams.

The study, carried out by Ramathibodi Hospital with the Health Systems Research Institute and the ThaiHealth Foundation, found that about 88% of the population exceeds the recommended daily sodium intake. 

Health authorities warn that excessive sodium intake is contributing to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in the country, including hypertension, kidney disease and cardiovascular conditions .

The government aims to reduce sodium consumption by 30% by 2030 under its Strategic Approach to Lower Sodium and Salt (SALTS) strategy.

Mixed reactions

But the proposed policy drew cheers and jeers, with supporters saying a tax could push manufacturers to lower sodium levels in processed foods and help reshape dietary habits.

For critics, however, such levies could disproportionately affect lower-income households, which tend to rely more heavily on inexpensive packaged foods. Others note that salty ingredients, including fish sauce, are deeply embedded in Thai cuisine, potentially limiting the effectiveness of the measure.

Similar public health taxes in countries such as Hungary and Colombia have produced mixed results, with debate continuing over their long-term impact on food consumption.

Flexibility was a crucial strategy in navigating this uncertainty, as exporters redirected shipments towards neighbouring Asian markets and Europe, reducing reliance on the US without stalling overall trade.

“The region’s resilience has been driven by redirecting trade toward alternative markets, which has sustained export growth even as shipments to the United States have declined in some economies,” the ADB said. 

China offers the clearest example. Although its exports to the US fell by nearly 20% in 2025, its global exports still grew. Shipments to other Asian economies and to the European Union and United Kingdom rose strongly, offsetting losses from the American market. 

Japan and South Korea followed a similar path, recording modest declines in US-bound exports but continued global growth.

Elsewhere, performance was even stronger. Taiwan posted the region’s fastest export growth at 35%, driven by soaring global demand for semiconductors linked to artificial intelligence. 

Exports to the US surged, despite tariffs, as buyers prioritised access to advanced chips over higher costs. Several Southeast Asian economies, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand, also reported double-digit export growth.

Three-pronged strategy

According to the report, three strategies helped firms cope with the new tariff regime. Some exporters absorbed higher costs to retain access to the US market. Others redirected goods to alternative destinations, particularly within Asia. A third group routed trade through tariff-exempt partners such as Canada and Mexico under the USMCA framework.

Asian economies continued moving up global value chains, focusing on higher value-added and more upstream activities. Deeper regional production networks helped cushion shocks from external policy changes and kept factories running.

“The region also continues to structurally upgrade within global value chains, moving into more upstream, higher value-added activities and deepening regional production networks,” the ADB said.

However, the ADB warned that heavy reliance on imported inputs leaves supply chains vulnerable to disruption, while rising geopolitical tensions are pushing up trade costs. Tariffs on metals have already raised production expenses, with pharmaceuticals and semiconductors also exposed.

To sustain resilience, the report urged: “The region should thus promote product and partner diversification, deepen and effectively implement trade agreements, and strengthen trade facilitation and logistics cooperation.”

This assessment was echoed on Tuesday in The Hague, where an ICC official described the campaign as disproportionately targeting society’s most marginalised.

“Duterte’s response was a selective, violent crackdown on the most vulnerable,” said Paolina Massidda, principal counsel at the ICC Office of Public Counsel for Victims. 

“Rather than addressing the root causes of drug addiction, such as poverty, lack of education, unemployment, and inequality, the Duterte administration framed the issue as a criminal one, focusing on punitive over social responses,” Massidda added.

Human rights organisations estimate that more than 30,000 people may have been killed during the drug war — far higher than official police figures of more than 7,000 deaths. 

Victims were overwhelmingly men from poor urban communities, many of whom were unemployed or reliant on informal work.

Among those left behind is Cheryl (not her real name), whose live-in partner was killed during a police anti-drug operation in Payatas, Quezon City, in 2017. His death abruptly left her family without its main source of income.

Cheryl said that while grief was overwhelming, economic necessity quickly took precedence.

“Unang tanong ko noon, ‘Paano na kami?’ Siya ‘yung source of income. May anak kaming nagsisimula pa lang mag-aral,” Cheryl said.

(My first question then was, ‘What will happen to us?’ He was our source of income. Our child was just starting school.)

She now works as a barista at Silingan Coffee, a café in Metro Manila that employs relatives of drug war victims and provides a space for them to share their experiences with the public.

Another employee, Sharon Angeles, lost her brother during the early years of the campaign. He was 20 years old.

“Wala talaga siyang kinalaman sa droga,” Sharon said, citing an autopsy that found no evidence of drug use. “Nag-iisa pa naming lalaki ‘yon.” 

(He really had nothing to do with drugs. He was our family’s only son.) 

Despite the scale of the killings, only a small number of cases have resulted in convictions, most involving low-ranking police officers. Families of victims have long criticised domestic investigations as inadequate and biased in favour of security forces.

“Habang may buhay, may pag-asa. [Pero] ‘yung sasabihin nilang may hustisya? Sa aming mahihirap? Walang hustisya – sa mayayaman lang ‘yun,” Sharon said. 

(As long as there is life, there is hope. But when they talk about justice —for us poor people? There is no justice. That is only for the rich.)

At the ICC, prosecutors have repeatedly cited Duterte’s public statements encouraging police to kill suspected drug users and dealers as potential evidence of responsibility at the highest level of government . 

Although Duterte withdrew the Philippines from the ICC during his term, the court maintains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member.

Duterte has denied any wrongdoing and has maintained that the ICC has no jurisdiction over him.

But for families like Cheryl’s and Sharon’s, the ICC investigation represents a rare opportunity for accountability beyond the Philippine institutions they say have failed them.

“Sa bibig niya mismo nanggaling na magpupursigi talaga siya dyan sa war on drugs,” Cheryl said. “Ebidensya na ‘yon.”

(It came directly from his own mouth that he would persist with the war on drugs. That is already evidence.)

NOTE: Quotes in the story were originally reported through an interview conducted in 2023 with family members of drug war victims in the Philippines. They have been edited for clarity, length, and timeliness as the ICC conducts the confirmation of charges hearing for Duterte.

Among those named were:

The companies span aerospace, shipbuilding, heavy industry and defense-linked manufacturing, which are sectors central to Japan’s military modernization drive.

China’s commerce ministry said the measures are aimed at curbing Japan’s “remilitarisation” and nuclear ambitions and described them as “legitimate, reasonable and lawful.” Tokyo called the move “absolutely unacceptable” and said it had lodged a formal protest.

Why this matters

The export controls are the latest step in a widening economic confrontation triggered by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks in November that Japan could intervene militarily in the event of a Taiwan emergency.

Since then:

Strategic backdrop

Japan has approved a record ¥9 trillion ($57 billion) defense budget and is moving to acquire “counterstrike” capabilities, marking a significant shift from its post-war pacifist posture. China views those steps as destabilizing.

It remains unclear whether rare earth minerals — critical to advanced manufacturing and defense supply chains — are included in the latest restrictions. 

Uncertain global trade

The escalation comes as global trade tensions again rise.

U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed a 15% tariff on all U.S. imports. This, after the Supreme Court struck down his “reciprocal” tariffs, which were found unconstitutional for lacking congressional approval.

Under the proposal , consultation fees for patients will rise modestly, including a new inflation-related surcharge. Basic hospitalization fees will also increase, alongside higher out-of-pocket costs for hospital meals and utilities for long-term patients. 

The changes will be introduced in stages beginning this year.

One major goal of the fee increase is to help medical institutions cope with inflation. Rising energy, food and equipment costs have squeezed hospital finances, particularly smaller facilities in rural areas.

Another priority is boosting wages for healthcare workers, as existing surcharges that allow hospitals to collect additional fees if they raise nurses’ pay will be expanded, and institutions that increase salaries for younger doctors will also become eligible. 

The overall revision will increase medical service fees by an average of 3.09% over two years, while official drug prices will be cut by 0.87%. 

By adjusting service and pharmaceutical costs separately, the government aims to balance financial sustainability with patient access.

Old population

The reform also reflects structural pressures from Japan’s demographics. With one of the world ’s oldest populations, demand for chronic care, long-term hospitalization and complex treatments continues to grow. Policymakers are using fee incentives to guide the system’s direction without sharply increasing total spending.

To improve quality and efficiency, the review promotes telemedicine and digital tools, including support for artificial intelligence , voice recognition and online consultations. Hospitals performing advanced procedures such as robot-assisted surgeries will also see fee adjustments.

At the same time, authorities are tightening rules around certain practices. Facilities that fail to reduce the use of physical restraints may face lower payments, while new fees will encourage hospitals to accept emergency patients from depopulated regions.

Because scores are not curved, unexpected spikes in difficulty can significantly affect university admissions outcomes.

A ministry investigation found that 19 English questions were rewritten shortly before the exam, limiting time for proper difficulty assessment. Only 33% of English item writers were active teachers, below the cross-subject average, weakening alignment with classroom learning levels.

What will change

Under the overhaul, at least half of English test writers will be practicing teachers, screening of expertise will be tightened, and an integrated review committee will oversee difficulty calibration. 

Artificial intelligence tools will also be introduced to assist with passage generation and difficulty prediction, with pilot use planned for 2028.

Where South Korea lies in global English proficiency

The reforms come as South Korea’s English proficiency faces global comparison. 

According to the State University of New York’s (SUNY) South Korean arm, the country placed a lowly 49th in the  EF English Proficiency Index 2023. South Korea scored 525 — classified as “moderate proficiency” — down 13 spots from the previous year.

EF English Proficiency Index 2023 ranked the Netherlands first with a score of 661, followed by Singapore at 642, with other top performers concentrated in Northern Europe . 

Despite early exposure to English and widespread private education, only a minority of Korean learners attain strong conversational fluency, according to SUNY Korea’s analysis. 

“The reasons seem to stem from cultural and social differences, the significant differences between the two languages: Korean and English, and the Korean Educational System,” the university noted. 

With the planned overhaul of Suneung’s English section, officials hope the reforms will restore fairness and ensure the exam reflects realistic learning outcomes rather than magnifying systemic gaps.

This closer coordination comes as drug trafficking networks increasingly exploit regional transit routes and disparities in enforcement capacity, a problem the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) had already identified years before. 

According to the ASEAN Drug Monitoring Report 2022 , Brunei recorded 613 drug arrests that year, equivalent to about 0.14% of its population, with methamphetamine and cannabis remaining the most commonly seized drugs. 

Indonesia, by contrast, was grappling with large-scale and highly organised networks at the time. 

The ASEAN report shows Indonesian authorities dismantled 49 drug syndicates in 2022, including 23 international networks, and seized more than 8.5 tonnes of methamphetamine and over 123 tonnes of cannabis.

Officials from both sides said the cooperation aims to bridge this disparity by pairing Indonesia’s experience in dismantling large syndicates with Brunei’s border controls and early-intervention capabilities. 

The agreement also aligns with ASEAN’s broader push for coordinated responses, as regional assessments warn that traffickers rapidly adapt to enforcement pressure by shifting routes, substances and operating methods.

Both countries said the framework would allow faster intelligence exchange and more coordinated action, as no single jurisdiction can effectively counter transnational drug networks acting across ASEAN.

The probe would involve the Department of Justice, the National Bureau of Investigation and potentially the Senate Committee on Women.

Her move was prompted by recent reports based on newly released U.S. government documents suggesting that, as early as 2010, Epstein or his associates hired a Philippines-based team to scrub damaging information about him from the internet .

“This is very recent. It’s right here at our doorstep. I don’t know whether it was him personally or his associates, but this convicted pedophile — who was supposedly a financial wizard at the time and who died or was killed — had a network in the Philippines,” Legarda said.

She added that the alleged operation went beyond sexual exploitation networks and may have involved businesses and other sectors used as cover. 

“We must see because they even work with a public relations company to cleanse their image,” she said.

The planned Senate resolution comes as lawmakers debated Senate Bill No. 1819, which seeks to strengthen the Philippines’ laws against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children . 

Epstein’s past in the Philippines was first reported by Philstar.com , citing emails included in the so-called “Epstein Files,” which described how reputation management tactics were deployed to manipulate search engine results and online platforms. 

These efforts allegedly involved Filipino workers tasked with mass link-building, creating websites and editing online entries to bury references to Epstein’s criminal record.

According to the report, the operation relied on early search engine optimisation techniques to flood the internet with neutral or positive content, pushing reports of Epstein’s jail time and abuse allegations out of prominent search results. 

Legarda said investigators must determine whether Philippine laws were violated and whether local entities knowingly participated in concealing crimes involving child sexual abuse. 

Malaysia will take immediate action against unauthorised houses of worship , Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on February 9, amid rising disputes that have raised concerns over national unity. He said temples or shrines built without legal approval, particularly on land they do not own, will no longer be allowed, and municipal councils have been authorised to clear such structures. Anwar noted the sensitivity of the issue in Malaysia’s multi-religious society, citing recent disputes involving Hindu temples in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. While acknowledging potential backlash, he warned against vigilantism, stressing that enforcement must be carried out strictly according to the law.

New member of Malaysian royalty is born

Prince Abdul Mateen and his wife, Princess Anisha Rosnah, have welcomed their first child , a baby girl, the Brunei royal household announced on Sunday. In a statement carried by national broadcaster RTB News, the Office of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah said Princess Anisha gave birth safely on Feb 8 at 8.50am, in an announcement made in accordance with the Sultan’s orders. The birth was marked by 17 cannon shots fired at the grounds of Istana Nurul Iman. The couple, who married in a royal ceremony last year, announced the pregnancy in October.

Anwar says language, history must anchor education to prevent detached elite

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia must place language and history at the core of its education system to avoid producing an elite class disconnected from national identity. Speaking at an event at Universiti Selangor in Shah Alam, Anwar said a firm commitment was needed if the country was serious about shaping its own character. He stressed that the principle should apply across all education streams, including international schools, which have expanded rapidly. While debates on language and education date back decades, Anwar said indecision was no longer an option, adding that cultural grounding must progress alongside economic and technological development.

Health ministry bans cosmetic product found to contain mercury

The health ministry has banned the sale of Saqa Glowing Turmeric Night Treatment Cream after tests found it contained mercury , a prohibited substance in cosmetics. The ministry revoked the product’s notification, making it illegal to sell or distribute in the country, Bernama reported. In a statement, the ministry warned that mercury can be absorbed into the body and cause serious health risks, including kidney and nervous system damage, developmental harm to children and fetuses, and skin reactions such as rashes and irritation. Consumers have been urged to stop using the product, while sellers and distributors must immediately halt sales due to regulatory violations.

Toddler opening car door triggers six-vehicle crash

A two-year-old child opening a car door caused a six-vehicle road accident along Jalan Tun Razak on Friday evening, police said. The crash occurred near the Kampung Pandan roundabout heading towards KLCC and involved four cars and two motorcycles. Preliminary investigations found the child, seated in the rear of a Honda City and held by a relative, opened the left rear door after the child safety lock was not engaged. A motorcyclist was unable to avoid the door, triggering a chain collision. One rider was hospitalised, while another suffered minor injuries. Police are investigating for careless driving.

They said the change is meant to adjust to " international standards.” 

Since the SDF was established in 1954, Japan has deliberately used rank names that differ from those of its pre-1945 military. The distinction was designed to signal a clean break from the wartime past and reinforce the force’s defensive role under Japan’s pacifist constitution.

Under the current system, Japanese rank names do not match the old imperial terminology, even though their English translations already correspond to standard military ranks used overseas. 

For example, the SDF rank equivalent to a colonel is “issa,” or “first field officer,” which replaced the imperial-era term “taisa.” While the Japanese titles were changed after the war , their English equivalents have long matched international military ranks.

Any change to rank names would require amendments to the Self-Defense Forces Law and approval by parliament.

Pusback

Inside the Defence Ministry and the SDF, however, the proposal has been met with scepticism .

Some officials noted that reviving terminology associated with the imperial military risks complicating recruitment efforts and unsettling public perceptions, especially among younger generations.

Particular resistance has focused on lower enlisted ranks such as ittohei (private first class) and nitohei (private). Critics argue that these terms carry outdated or negative connotations tied to Japan’s wartime army.

What’s more unsettling is that the debate has also drawn attention from Japan’s neighbours. 

China and North Korea have criticised the proposal as further evidence of Tokyo drifting away from its postwar pacifist stance.

In the video, the teenagers are seen saying they “want to do a good deed” before eating fried chicken at a fast-food outlet. One remarks that the chicken bones would be wasted if thrown away. They then pack the bones into rice and hand it to a man sleeping outside a Johor Bahru restaurant. The man thanks them, though it is unclear whether he ate the food.

Tang, who represented himself in court, was charged under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 with creating and posting an offensive video intended to cause annoyance, according to state-run news agency Bernama .

In court, Tang apologised and asked for a minimum fine, saying he was remorseful for the stunt.

The prosecution described the video as a “calculated act of exploitation,” noting that the victim felt “insulted and angry” after being used for social media content. 

Deputy public prosecutor Fadhli Ab Wahab called for a deterrent sentence to prevent others from posting similar videos.

Judge Sazlina Safie ordered Tang to pay the RM40,000 fine, adding four months’ imprisonment in default of payment. Tang has since settled the fine.

Under Malaysian law, the offence carries a maximum penalty of RM500,000 ($127,000), up to two years’ imprisonment, or both, with additional daily fines if the violation continues after conviction.

Tang later posted another Instagram video admitting his mistake, promising not to film similar content again, and kowtowing three times in apology.

The over-one-minute clip has been viewed more than 400,000 times, sparking a debate online about the limits of social media pranks and the ethics of exploiting vulnerable individuals for content.

The policy was formalised late last year through Circular Letter No. 6 of 2025, issued by the Ministry of Forestry’s Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation.

Facilities that fail to comply face the risk of having their operating permits revoked, according to the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency, which has been monitoring enforcement. 

Mason Elephant Park in Bali, one of the last venues still offering elephant rides, halted the activity on January 25 after receiving official warnings and has begun transitioning to alternative tourism activities.

World Animal Protection said the move marked a turning point for captive elephants in Indonesia. 

Suzanne Milthorpe, head of campaigns for World Animal Protection ANZ, described the move as a “world-leading step to safeguarding the dignity of wild animals."

She said the decision sent “a strong signal to the wider tourism industry that we're entering a new chapter of more responsible wildlife tourism,” adding that it represented “a wonderful win for elephants.”

Elephant riding, the group noted, is widely recognised by animal welfare experts as harmful, often involving painful training methods, restrictions on natural behaviour and long-term physical and psychological damage. 

Ending the practice, it added, removes the need for such treatment and allows elephants to spend more time socialising, grazing and bathing.

Milthorpe said the ban followed “years of tireless advocacy and on-the-ground engagement,” including support from more than 10,000 Indonesians, Australians and New Zealanders who signed the group’s petition calling on Mason Elephant Park to end elephant riding.

World Animal Protection said the directive aligns Indonesia with a growing global expectation that tourism should be responsible and humane, with wildlife encounters focused on education and conservation rather than direct contact.

The organisation said the decision would help travellers make clearer ethical choices and urged tourists to avoid venues that exploit animals. 

Although it welcomed the ban, the group said the move should form part of a broader regional push to end other forms of cruel wildlife entertainment , and called on governments and industry leaders elsewhere to follow Indonesia’s example.

The initiative, first linked to post-ceasefire governance discussions around Gaza, has expanded into a broader proposal for a new international body aimed at conflict resolution and reconstruction.

Trump’s team describes it as a platform to promote stability and long-term peace. Critics argue it risks bypassing existing multilateral institutions, particularly the United Nations .

Countries invited and early acceptances

According to officials familiar with the process, invitations have been sent to dozens of governments across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

A limited number of countries have confirmed acceptance. Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, publicly welcomed the invitation, describing it as an opportunity for closer diplomatic cooperation. Hungary has also confirmed participation , with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán signalling support for Trump’s approach to peace negotiations. Vietnam has likewise accepted, with its leadership confirming involvement through diplomatic channels.

Several other countries, including India, Australia, Pakistan, Egypt , Turkey, Jordan, Greece, Cyprus, Canada, and Albania, have acknowledged receiving invitations but have not formally committed.

Rejections and reluctance from major powers

Some governments have already drawn clear lines. France has indicated it does not intend to join at this stage, citing concerns about the board’s purpose and structure. Brazil has also taken a cautious stance, with officials questioning whether the initiative complements or competes with existing international frameworks.

Canada’s position has been more nuanced. While Ottawa has not ruled out participation, officials have pushed back on reports that membership could involve large financial contributions, stressing that any involvement would need to align with Canada’s diplomatic priorities.

Other major powers, including the United Kingdom and Germany, are reported to be in internal discussions but have yet to make public commitments.

The proposal has generated additional controversy following reports that Russia’s President Vladimir Putin received an invitation . The Kremlin confirmed it was reviewing the offer, a move that has unsettled European diplomats, given Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

According to briefings from U.S. officials and reporting by international media, the Board of Peace is intended to:

Some reports suggest membership could involve fixed-term participation or long-term seats tied to significant financial contributions, a feature that has drawn criticism from several governments.

Their criticism centres on a section of the plan that seeks to enable the use of copyrighted material for AI training without legal uncertainty, potentially through amendments to existing law or the introduction of a new AI-specific statute.

Creators say the proposal favours commercial AI developers and shifts the burden of enforcement onto individual rights holders.

They also warned that references to opt-out mechanisms would offer little real protection, as most creators lack the resources or technical capacity to deploy machine-readable safeguards.

“This is a declaration that the government is abandoning the sustainability of Korea’s cultural industry,” the groups said.

Newsmen also concerned

Sixteen organisations signed the statement, representing writers, screenwriters, performers, musicians, choreographers, visual artists, independent producers and the broadcasting sector.

The intervention follows concerns similar to those raised by newspaper publishers, who argue that copyright is rooted in the right to grant or refuse permission in advance, not after the fact.

The dispute comes as the Lee Jae Myung administration accelerates efforts to position South Korea as a global AI leader, with the Presidential Council on National Artificial Intelligence Strategy coordinating policy across government and industry.

The draft Korea AI Action Plan, released in December, sets out 98 measures spanning infrastructure investment, AI semiconductor development, talent training and regulatory reform.

Among them are proposals to revise laws governing personal data and copyrighted works to facilitate AI training, a move officials say is necessary to support innovation and competitiveness.

Public consultation on the draft plan closed earlier this month, and the council has indicated it will hold further discussions on the copyright issue.

The move is framed by the government as a matter of fairness and enforcement, amid growing concerns that tax incentives meant to boost local economies have instead enabled loopholes, abuse and weak compliance among wealthy vehicle owners.

For years, Langkawi’s duty-free status allowed supercars that would cost up to 5 million ringgit ($1.2 million) elsewhere in Malaysia to be registered on the island for roughly half the price, making it the preferred hub for luxury car buyers nationwide.

Industry figures indicate that around 90% of Ferraris in Malaysia were registered in Langkawi, not for island use but to take advantage of lower taxes. 

After uncovering unpaid tax

Officials have also been under pressure to act after stepped-up enforcement revealed widespread non-compliance , including hundreds of luxury vehicles with unpaid road tax, forged plates or years of arrears despite their high market value.

Since July 2025, road transport authorities have seized more than 900 luxury vehicles nationwide, including Ferraris, Aston Martins and Rolls-Royces, some owing tens of thousands of ringgit in unpaid tax. 

By removing exemptions, Malaysia appears to be signalling that ownership of high-value assets must come with full fiscal responsibility, particularly at a time when the government is seeking to broaden its tax base.

The policy also aligns with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s broader reform agenda, which emphasises closing leakages, curbing elite privileges and restoring confidence in the tax system.

Backlash on economy

However, industry veterans warn the move could backfire economically, arguing that Langkawi’s tax-free status generated sustained revenue through corporate tax, customs charges, tourism spending and high-end services tied to luxury vehicles.

They say the island evolved into a niche automotive and lifestyle hub, hosting international car launches and supporting specialised workshops, logistics firms, hotels and secure storage facilities.

Dealers report immediate fallout, with cancellations already being felt amid uncertainty over implementation, while local business groups fear job losses and a decline in premium tourism.

The reclassification was attributed to what officials described as “emerging integrity risks.” 

While Australia has not publicly cited a specific trigger, Indian media said the move followed international reporting on “fake degree busts” in India that raised red flags about the authenticity of academic credentials used in overseas applications.

India is one of Australia’s most important international education markets, accounting for about 140,000 of the country’s roughly 650,000 foreign students. Together, the four countries now in the highest risk tier represent nearly a third of enrolments in 2025.

The assessment level change is expected to subject Indian applicants to closer checks, including stricter requirements for financial proof, English proficiency and evidence of genuine study intentions, according to Australian education analysts.

Fake diploma racket

The decision comes as police in India’s Kerala state dismantled a sprawling fake university certificate racket last month. Investigators said forged degrees from multiple universities were produced and distributed nationwide, with tens of thousands of counterfeit documents seized.

Australia’s Minister for International Education, Julian Hill, has previously warned that Australia is becoming the “least worst” option among major study destinations as countries such as the United States , Britain and Canada tighten their own student visa rules.

Education officials say that shift has increased pressure on Australia’s visa system, prompting tougher risk filtering and a renewed focus on documentary evidence to protect the integrity of the programme.

It is considered the world’s first because, despite the earlier adoption of the European Union ’s AI Act, most of its rules will not apply until 2027. The US, meanwhile, remains deadlocked over federal AI legislation. 

The goal? To place South Korea among the world’s top three AI powers, alongside the US and China. By acting early, officials argue, Korea can help shape global norms on AI safety, transparency and ethics while rules elsewhere remain unsettled.

Innovation first

At the core of the law is an “innovation-first” approach. Companies are free to develop and deploy AI systems without prior government approval, a sharp contrast to more precautionary regulatory models. The government has also committed to supporting the sector through funding, infrastructure and workforce training.

However, freedom comes with new obligations. 

The law introduces the concept of “high-impact AI” — systems used in sensitive areas such as healthcare, energy, hiring and critical infrastructure. Firms developing these systems must carry out risk assessments, monitor performance and report safety measures to regulators.

One of the most closely watched provisions targets transparency. AI-generated images, videos and audio will need to be clearly labelled and watermarked, including with machine-readable markers designed to combat deepfakes and disinformation.

Despite its ambition, the framework has unsettled parts of the tech industry. 

Key definitions, including what qualifies as high-impact AI, remain vague. Detailed enforcement rules are still being drafted and will be issued through executive decrees led by the Ministry of Science and ICT.

Rattled market

While the law has yet to take effect, the uncertainty is already having an impact. 

Some companies have delayed product launches, while many startups say they are unsure how — or whether — the rules apply to their systems. Industry surveys suggest most firms have yet to begin formal compliance preparations.

Critics warn that moving first does not guarantee credibility. Without clearer guidance, they argue, the law risks confusing developers or becoming more symbolic than substantive.

The government acknowledges the rollout will be imperfect. Penalties of up to 30 million won ($20,800) will be suspended during the first year, a buffer officials say is meant to help companies adapt rather than punish them.

For now, South Korea is pressing ahead. Whether its early leap sets a global standard or exposes the risks of regulating too soon will become clearer once the law is tested in the real world.

In Johor, where many schools have traditionally required neckties and built distinctive identities around them, the change has drawn criticism from some education groups. 

Mohd Ridhwan Othman, chairman of the Malaysian Education Concorde Organisation (Me’Didik), said neckties play a role in cultivating discipline and pride in personal appearance.

“A necktie can help cultivate self-discipline and instill good character in students. Wearing a tie teaches children to take care of their personal appearance, as they carry the image of their school,” he said.

Ridhwan also raised concerns about the timing of the circular, noting that some schools had already purchased ties in bulk ahead of the new academic year. 

In Johor, he said, students typically wear formal uniforms — including ties — only on Mondays, with sports or co-curricular attire on other days.

Others welcomed the move as a practical adjustment to classroom conditions . Vincent D’Silva, president of the Johor English Language Teaching Association, said discipline should not be conflated with uniform accessories.

“Discipline is shaped by values, teaching and example – not by a strip of fabric around the neck,” he said. “In a tropical climate, comfort matters, and learning should never be made harder by unnecessary discomfort.”

Many elements of school formality, including neckties, were adopted from education systems in temperate countries, where climate and infrastructure differ markedly from those in the Global South.

D’Silva said the ministry’s decision refines rather than weakens the uniform system, maintaining school identity while removing an item with limited educational value.

Under the circular dated December 17, schools may still allow neckties if there is mutual agreement with parents, but no student may be compelled or pressured to wear one. 

The policy was approved at the Education Ministry Professional Council’s Special 2025 meeting on December 8.

Signed by Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad, the directive leaves schools to determine whether discipline is best reinforced through dress codes — or through teaching and example.

One of the most closely watched measures elevates teachers’ pay across the public sector. Under a new law governing the profession, teachers are now placed at the top of the public administrative salary scale, a move authorities have framed as recognition of the role education plays in national development.

The law introduces higher allowances for educators working in preschools, remote and disadvantaged areas, ethnic minority regions and specialised institutions. 

Education officials said the incentives are intended to address staffing shortages and improve retention in regions that have long struggled to attract qualified teachers.

Vietnam has also tightened its grip on personal data, as a standalone data protection law took effect amid growing concern over privacy and digital security. The legislation grants individuals explicit rights over their personal information, including the right to refuse or withdraw consent for data processing and to seek legal redress if their data is misused.

Companies handling personal data will now face clearer legal obligations, aligning Vietnam more closely with international standards.

There were also changes to employment law. New provisions expand state support for job creation, reskilling and self-employment, particularly in technology-driven and green sectors.

In a significant development for migrant workers, all Vietnamese citizens working overseas under contracts will now be eligible for preferential loans , replacing a more limited system that excluded many low-income applicants.

Foreign policy

The legal overhaul also extends beyond domestic policy. 

A new law governing participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations establishes a permanent legal framework for Vietnam’s overseas deployments, covering both military and civilian personnel. 

At the same time, a revised juvenile justice law places greater emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment, expanding the use of community-based measures and educational programmes for minors in conflict with the law.

Perhaps the most strategic of the new statutes is a law dedicated to the digital technology industry, which aims to position Vietnam as a regional hub for semiconductors and artificial intelligence. The law introduces formal definitions and incentives for digital enterprises, marking a rare attempt to legislate an entire sector into existence.

Together with changes to budget rules, energy regulation, transport and industrial standards, the laws mark one of Vietnam’s most extensive legislative resets in years.

Under the regulation, platforms will be required to enforce minimum age requirements for users and restrict children’s access based on the level of risk posed by each service. 

The government will classify platforms into risk categories, with stricter limits applied to high-risk services such as social media.

Children aged 13 to 16 will be subject to differentiated access controls depending on a platform’s risk profile, Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said, adding that the government will publish an official list of high- and low-risk platforms.

PP Tunas also prohibits platforms from profiling children or collecting, analysing and exploiting their personal data, marking one of the strongest child data protections introduced in Indonesia to date.

Platforms that breach the rules will face escalating administrative sanctions , starting with formal warnings, followed by fines and, in severe or repeated cases, the termination of access to their services in Indonesia.

The government has completed public consultations on the implementing guidelines and has begun pilot testing the rules with child users in several regions ahead of full enforcement.

Officials said the regulation is designed to apply across the entire digital ecosystem rather than targeting social media alone, placing obligations on platforms to actively protect children from online risks once the rules come into force in 2026.

The proposal was discussed at a meeting chaired by deputy governors Jakkapan Piwngam and Tavida Kamolvej on December 19.

At the heart of the plan is PM2.5 — fine particulate matter small enough to enter the bloodstream — which regularly surges in the capital during the dry season. 

Officials said six-wheeler and larger trucks contribute disproportionately to these pollution peaks, particularly when weather conditions trap emissions over the city.

Under the proposed rules, trucks with six or more wheels would be barred from entering designated districts when PM2.5 levels reach hazardous thresholds. The ban would be triggered when pollution readings move into the “red zone,” defined as more than 75.1 micrograms per cubic metre, in at least five districts, with a two-day advance warning.

If PM2.5 levels reach orange or red in multiple districts and the ventilation rate falls below 3,000 square metres per second, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) would issue a citywide notice.

Officials said the system is designed to be responsive rather than permanent, allowing economic activity to continue while acting decisively during pollution emergencies. Forecasts, wind direction and other environmental factors will be factored into decisions on when to activate the ban.

The proposal builds on a pilot LEZ scheme tested earlier this year around the Ratchadaphisek Ring Road. During the trial, only trucks registered under the city’s “Green List” — alongside electric, natural gas and EURO 5–6 vehicles — were allowed to enter the zone.

In 2025 alone, nearly 58,000 six-wheeler and larger vehicles were registered under the Green List programme, underscoring both the volume of heavy traffic and the potential impact of tighter controls.

State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Abka Fitz-Henley, said the decline reflects years of deliberate policy-making and closer cooperation between the government and security forces. While stressing that any loss of life remains unacceptable, he said the progress should be recognised in context.

“This did not happen by chance,” Fitz-Henley said. “It is the result of sustained planning, effective leadership and strong partnerships with our security forces,” the Jamaica Observer quotes.

He pointed to the Plan Secure Jamaica initiative, introduced by the government in the 2017 - 2018 budget, as a turning point. The strategy focuses on boosting intelligence capabilities, investing heavily in border security to stem the flow of illegal guns, and using technology to support law enforcement operations.

Targeted action against criminal gangs has also played a key role, alongside new legislation such as Zones of Special Operations, stronger anti-gang laws and the use of DNA evidence. The government has also increased support for police officers, including improving working conditions and expanding their presence on the ground.

So far this year, murders have fallen by about 43%, according to the government. However, Fitz-Henley said authorities are not celebrating prematurely.

“There is no victory lap,” he said, adding that Prime Minister Andrew Holness and National Security Minister Horace Chang remain focused on sustaining the gains and strengthening public safety.

The government says further measures are being developed as it seeks to lock in the progress and make Jamaica a safer place in the long term.

He said the government should consider whether public insurance should reflect this change, describing hair loss treatment as a “matter of survival” for sections of the younger generation.

Health Minister Jeong Eun-kyeong, responding to a question during the briefing, said national health insurance already covers hair loss linked to medical conditions . She said hereditary hair loss was excluded because it is not considered symptomatic or life-threatening.

Lee challenged that position, questioning whether hereditary baldness should be excluded solely because it is not defined as a disease under current standards.

He said that while hair loss treatment had previously been categorised as cosmetic, it was increasingly regarded as necessary for everyday life, pushing back against the view that it fell outside the scope of essential healthcare.

Jeong maintained that hereditary hair loss did not meet the criteria for coverage, reiterating that it does not pose a direct threat to health or survival.

Lee suggested that if coverage were expanded, limits could be placed on the number of claims allowed per beneficiary to reduce the financial impact on the state-run insurance system.

He said a similar approach could be applied to other conditions, such as obesity, noting that South Korea already covers surgical stomach reduction under national health insurance and implying drug treatments could also be considered.

Lee added that social exclusion among younger people was growing, saying many no longer felt they were beneficiaries of government-funded medical support when they needed it.

At least 37 people were killed after torrential rains triggered flash floods in Morocco’s Atlantic coastal province of Safi, authorities said. State broadcaster SNRT News reported that at least 14 people were hospitalised, including two in intensive care, after heavy rain on Sunday swept cars and debris through the town, about 300km south of Rabat. Local authorities said more than 70 homes and businesses in the historic old city were flooded within an hour, while search and rescue operations and support efforts for affected residents remain ongoing.

Morocco positions itself at the centre of Atlantic geopolitics and long-term reform debates

Morocco is being highlighted as a central actor in discussions around geopolitics , structural reforms, and future-oriented policy planning through the “Perspectives 2030” framework. The Policy Centre’s focus places the country at the heart of the Atlantic Dialogues, underscoring Morocco’s growing role as a convening power between Africa, Europe, and the Atlantic world. This positioning reflects sustained diplomatic engagement, strategic economic planning, and an emphasis on long-term stability and influence in regional and transatlantic affairs.

Morocco–EBRD contracts set to reach a record $1 billion in 2025

Greg Guyett, first Vice-President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, said 2025 is a record year for EBRD contract signings with Morocco, totalling about $1 billion , driven by strong government partnerships and private sector collaboration. He said the bank will continue investing to support business growth, particularly for SMEs, with a focus on energy, industry, water, renewable energy, grid upgrades, and education programs that empower youth and women.

Government explores a new framework to recognise and support women’s unpaid household work

Morocco is examining the development of a new policy framework aimed at addressing women’s unpaid household labour , a long-standing issue in social and economic policy. This initiative signals increased attention to gender equity, social protection, and the economic value of care work that has traditionally gone unrecognised. The exploration of such a framework suggests a broader reform agenda focused on inclusion, labour recognition, and social justice within national development priorities.

Morocco reiterates a firm and fair position on the Sahara issue under King Mohammed VI’s leadership

The head of government has reaffirmed Morocco’s firm and fair stance on the Sahara issue, emphasising continuity and clarity under the leadership of King Mohammed VI. This position reflects the state’s consistent diplomatic narrative, combining sovereignty claims with calls for pragmatic and realistic solutions. The reiteration underscores the centrality of the Sahara issue to Morocco’s foreign policy, national unity, and international engagement strategy.

The measures are contained in Statutory Instrument 215 of 2025, formally titled the Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment (Foreign Participation in Reserved Sectors) Regulations, 2025. They establish a phased but accelerated localisation regime, compelling affected firms to divest at least 25% of their equity each year, beginning immediately.

From the date of gazetting, foreign-owned companies operating in the reserved sectors have 30 days to submit regularisation plans, setting out how they will comply with the new ownership requirements.

At the heart of the regulations is Zimbabwe’s attempt to reserve select industries for its citizens — most of which have long been dominated by small and medium-sized enterprises, but which have increasingly been taken over by foreign operators in recent years.

The sectors now fully reserved for indigenous citizens include:

Passenger transport services such as taxis and commuter buses, along with estate agencies, clearing and customs services, are also effectively restricted, though with limited exceptions.

In three sectors, foreign participation is permitted only where the business operates under a recognised international brand or franchise. These include passenger transport, estate agencies, and clearing and customs services.

For other sectors, foreign investors are not banned outright but face steep entry barriers designed to restrict participation to large-scale operations. Regulations set explicit minimum investment and employment thresholds :

Penalties

Existing foreign-owned businesses operating in reserved sectors are given three years to comply with the localisation timetable.

The regulations explicitly criminalise attempts to circumvent the law, including the use of fronting arrangements or nominee shareholders. Authorities are empowered to suspend or cancel operating licences for companies that fail to regularise their ownership structures within the stipulated period.

State media reports say enforcement will be strict, particularly in sectors such as artisanal mining, where the government has for years struggled to curb illegal operations and foreign syndicates, many of them involving Chinese nationals extracting gold, chrome and lithium.

Unaffected sectors

The government has been keen to stress that the regulations do not apply across the entire economy. Strategic and capital-intensive sectors — including banking, large-scale mining and other major industries — remain open to foreign ownership under existing laws.

Officials argue that the policy is a corrective measure rather than a reversal of Zimbabwe’s broader investment strategy, aimed at protecting informal and small-scale sectors from foreign encroachment.

While authorities frame the regulations as a long-overdue empowerment drive designed to restore economic agency to ordinary Zimbabweans, analysts warn that the abrupt scope and scale of the changes could unsettle investors and disrupt supply chains.

Forced divestments, tight deadlines and criminal penalties risk deepening perceptions of policy unpredictability in a country already grappling with capital shortages and fragile investor confidence.

Still, the message from Harare is unequivocal: in much of Zimbabwe’s day-to-day economy, local ownership is no longer optional — it is now mandatory.

Government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim considered access to police services “non-negotiable,” adding no one should be prevented from seeking help over clothing. 

The Cabinet instructed Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar to review and revise a 2020 circular governing attire in government buildings. Fahmi said essential frontline services, especially health and security agencies, will be exempt once the updates are issued. Police stations will be included in this exemption.

He added that the chief secretary’s office is studying the matter and that an updated directive is expected “not too long from now.” The move represents a sharp shift from comments made just a day earlier by Melaka police chief Datuk Dzulkhairi Mukhtar, who had insisted the public must comply with the dress code unless facing a genuine emergency.

Guo’s case drew widespread attention after she recounted pleading with the officer to make an exception, explaining that she needed to report the accident urgently. She said the officer refused, citing fear of disciplinary action, and advised her to buy long trousers before returning.

The woman eventually purchased the required clothing in order to file her report. She said she had encountered similar issues at other government offices and questioned whether the same rules would apply in more serious cases. 

“If this weren’t a car accident but a murder case, would they still insist on this?” she asked.

Melaka police later confirmed that the woman was asked to change into “appropriate clothing” when she arrived to lodge the accident report. While public welfare remains a priority, they said the existing government circular had to be respected.

The incident prompted local leaders to call for action. Melaka state executive councillor Allex Seah Shoo Chin said he had contacted the state police chief to request an investigation into the handling of the case.

While dress standards are typically enforced in public buildings, critics argue that rigid application can hinder those seeking help and that clearer, more flexible guidelines are needed to prevent similar cases.

Under the new rules, alcohol can be sold from 11 a.m. to midnight while a government committee reviews the effects of the policy change.

Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Saram said last month that the decades-old curbs belonged to a different time, and Health Minister Pattana Promphat called the shift “appropriate to the present situation.”

The move loosens a regulatory regime shaped heavily by Buddhist teachings on abstinence and by concerns over Thailand’s high rates of alcohol consumption. 

World Health Organization data show the country ranked 16th globally for road deaths per capita in 2021, and nearly 33,000 people were killed in drunk-driving incidents between 2019 and 2023.

Despite the significance of the rollback, the first day saw little change on the ground. 

Shop attendants in central Bangkok said many customers were unaware of the new rules, and convenience store buyers continued reaching for soft drinks over beer or spirits.

The order also instructed manufacturers to push a software update installing the app on existing devices. Companies were given 90 days to comply and 120 days to file reports with the Department of Telecommunications. 

With more than 85% of Indian households owning smartphones, the measure would have affected almost the entire population.

Sanchar Saathi, introduced in January, is designed to curb mobile-related fraud by detecting duplicate or spoofed IMEI numbers and allowing users to block stolen devices. Government figures claim the app has already helped disable millions of fraudulent connections and recover hundreds of thousands of lost phones.

Officials framed the requirement as a necessary response to mounting cybercrime, citing powers under India’s Telecom Cyber Security Rules. But the mandatory installation clause immediately raised concerns among privacy groups and technology companies, recalling the backlash over India’s compulsory COVID-19 tracing app in 2020.

Apple was reportedly the first to signal non-compliance, arguing that it does not pre-install third-party apps for any government worldwide. 

Digital rights advocates condemned the order as legally weak and disproportionately intrusive. The Internet Freedom Foundation called it a “deeply worrying expansion of executive control,” while the Software Freedom Law Centre described it as a “24-hour State in my home” measure that undermined user autonomy.

Opposition politicians also criticised the directive. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi labelled Sanchar Saathi a “snooping app,” arguing that the government had no justification for placing non-removable state software on personal devices. The backlash quickly gained traction across social media.

Facing mounting resistance, the government signalled on Wednesday morning that it was open to amending the order. By the afternoon, the Communications Ministry confirmed the directive had been scrapped, saying it had “decided not to make the pre-installation mandatory.”

But, India is not alone in pursuing tighter control over mobile phones. 

Russia recently made a government-backed app mandatory on all devices sold in the country, part of what critics describe as a widening surveillance apparatus. Privacy advocates warn that India’s attempt, though now rescinded, reflects a similar trajectory and could re-emerge in another form.

While public opinion has long been split over issues like gun control and voting access, fresh scrutiny on these freedoms is bringing an old debate back to the forefront: Which right do Americans consider more vital — the right to vote or the right to bear arms?

According to recent findings from the Pew Research Centre , Americans remain deeply divided over firearms, yet a consistent majority, about 58% as of 2023, say gun laws should be stricter. Despite that, many still describe gun ownership as an essential personal freedom.

The Johns Hopkins Centre for Gun Violence Solutions adds that even among gun owners, support for gun-safety policies such as universal background checks and mandatory secure storage remains overwhelmingly strong.

"Safe and secure gun storage policies are shown to prevent mass shootings, suicide, theft, and unintentional shootings. Responsible gun ownership is not only about how, where, and when a person uses their firearm; it’s also about how they store it when not in use. 74% of Americans support laws that require a person to lock up the guns in their home when not in use," the Johns Hopkins study reveals.

On the other side of the constitutional balance, support for voting rights remains huge. After years of disputes over mail-in ballots, redistricting battles, and claims of election interference, most Americans agree on one point that voting should be both accessible and secure . Yet how states interpret “access” and “security” has widened political gaps.

The national climate in 2025 makes these questions impossible to ignore. The U.S. continues to grapple with persistently high rates of gun violence, including school shootings and community-level tragedies that dominate headlines.

An example of such cases is a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis during morning Mass, which killed two children (ages 8 and 10) and wounded 17 others before the gunman killed himself in August 2025.

And on November 29, 2025, a family event at a children’s birthday party in Stockton, California, turned tragic as four people, three of them children, were killed and at least 13were injured in a mass shooting.

At the same time, sweeping changes to voting laws, from expanded early voting in some states to tightened ID requirements in others, shape how Americans view their access to the ballot box.

Brennan Centre for Justice reports that by October 2025, at least 16 states had enacted 29 restrictive voting laws, nearly matching the level of post-2020-election enactments, signalling a continuing trend, not a one-time spike.

For instance, in Ohio, a 2023 law eliminated alternatives to government-issued photo ID that had previously allowed a wider range of ID types, such as utility bills or pay stubs. This made Ohio’s voter-ID law among the strictest in the country; observers estimate the change disenfranchised thousands who lacked a compliant ID.

The white paper presents China as a supporter of the United Nations-centred global order and a “builder of world peace.” It further reiterates Beijing’s calls for countries to uphold existing treaties on nuclear, biological and chemical weapons and argues that developing nations should have a greater say in international security frameworks.

China says it “conscientiously fulfils” its obligations under major arms control treaties, though several Western governments have previously accused Beijing of opacity in areas such as nuclear modernisation.

The country has further restated its long-held positions on nuclear weapons, including its “ no-first-use ” pledge and opposition to nuclear arms races. It calls for global reductions in nuclear arsenals but does not indicate that China intends to cut its own stockpile, which US intelligence agencies believe is expanding.

China accused unnamed states of destabilising global security through military alliances and missile defence systems.

One of the most important sections concerns outer space, cyberspace and artificial intelligence, areas the white paper calls “new territories of global governance .”

China proposes, amongst others, international norms for cyber operations and global oversight of AI systems with military applications. The document warns that rapid developments in emerging technologies could undermine global stability if not properly regulated.

China says it is strengthening its internal non-proliferation controls and improving oversight of sensitive technologies. It also noted that it is advancing programmes aimed at supporting developing countries to use advanced technologies for peaceful purposes.

The white paper concludes by linking arms control to China’s diplomatic agenda, and calls for an “equal and orderly multipolar world” and a “community with a shared future for humanity”.

From the United Kingdom to Australia, China, and Brazil, each country is exploring new ways of making the internet safer.

Here are four countries and the restrictions on internet access:

UK’s proof of age

Starting July 2025, the UK implemented a cybersecurity law that required children to prove their age to access the most harmful material on social media and adult websites.

Platforms that host content such as pornography, self-harm, or eating disorder promotion will be legally required to introduce secure age-verification systems, including facial scans, photo ID matching, or credit card checks.

Failure to comply could cost companies up to 10% of their global annual revenue or £18 million, whichever is higher. “This is one of the boldest steps anywhere in the world to reclaim the digital space for young people,” said Technology Secretary Peter Kyle. He described the policy as a response to the mental health crisis among children exposed to “toxic algorithms” and harmful online material.

Australia’s ban of under-16s from social media

Under the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, passed last November, anyone under 16 will soon be banned from creating accounts on major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), Threads, Reddit, and Kick.

The policy decision is the first of its kind anywhere in the world and is designed to shield minors from addictive and harmful content, cyberbullying, and predatory behaviour. Communications Minister Anika Wells admitted the policy is imperfect but insisted it was necessary: “There is no perfect solution to keeping young Australians safe online. But the social media minimum age laws will make a meaningful difference.” Platforms will be legally required to enforce the ban using age-verification technology.

China’s only verified influencers regulation

In East Asia, China’s Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) now requires social media influencers to prove their professional credentials before posting about sensitive topics such as law, medicine, finance, or education. Under the new policy, creators must show a degree, license, or certification to speak on these subjects. Platforms like Douyin (China’s TikTok), Weibo, and Bilibili are required to verify credentials and flag posts containing AI-generated material or research references.

Persons who misrepresent qualifications could lose monetisation rights, face temporary bans, or be fined. The CAC says the move aims to curb misinformation and promote a “cleaner cyberspace,” part of President Xi Jinping’s wider campaign to ensure online content is “factual, educational, and socially responsible.”

Brazil’s cyber responsibility

A landmark Supreme Court ruling in June 2025 declared that social media companies must act immediately to remove hate speech and criminal content once they become aware of it.

Previously, companies could only be penalised if they failed to remove content after a court order. Now, platforms are directly responsible for what circulates on their networks.

“We preserve freedom of expression as much as possible,” wrote Supreme Court President Justice Luis Roberto Barroso, “without allowing the world to fall into an abyss of incivility,” he added. The ruling also urged Congress to revise Article 19 of the country’s main internet law, the Marco Civil da Internet, to strengthen protections against disinformation and online violence.

The funding lapse began on October 1, 2025, when Congress failed to pass the annual appropriation bills for the next fiscal year. By November 4 and 5, the shutdown had reached 35-36 days, officially topping the previous 35-day record from 2018-2019, under the same administration.

Republicans and Democrats disagree over whether to include extensions of health-insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in a stopgap funding bill.

Democrats say that without the subsidy extension, millions of Americans will face higher premiums and reduced coverage. Republicans counter that the government must reopen first, and that health policy should be negotiated separately.

As this issue drags on, many federal workers remain on the job without pay, while others are suspended.

LaShanda Palmer, a federal employee of the Transportation Security Administration, lamented to People in October that she had yet to receive her paycheck.

"I don't want to get an eviction notice. I'm in a position right now, come November 1st, where my rent may not get paid because I don't have it to pay it. And it's not that I don't work for it because I am working for it. I should have it," she said.

A letter from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) also warned that the shutdown could shave up to 2% off quarterly GDP and result in between US$7 billion and US$14 billion in permanent losses.

On a global scale, air travel is already being affected as hundreds of flights were delayed at major airports over the weekend.

Countries once overlooked in global labour rankings are now setting bold new standards for paternity leave, offering fathers time to bond with their newborns and share caregiving responsibilities from day one.

According to the IRIS Global Parental Leave Index , Peru, Laos, Rwanda, Comoros, and Benin lead the way, granting some of the world’s longest paid paternity leaves among developing nations.

Peru tops the list with 21 weeks, followed by Laos with 17 weeks, Rwanda with 16, Comoros with 15, and Benin offering 12 weeks

These numbers stand out in a world where the average paid paternity leave remains under two weeks, and only about 53% of countries legally guarantee fathers any paid time off at all.

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) notes that leave policies specifically designed for fathers can be a game changer in reducing gender inequality at work and home, improving child well-being, and reshaping social norms around caregiving

In countries like Rwanda, where gender equality is part of national development goals, expanding paternity leave reflects a deeper social commitment. Similarly, Peru’s 21-week provision—the highest in the Global South—signals that progressive family policy is not the preserve of wealthy nations.

In Laos, Comoros, and Benin, these reforms also highlight how smaller economies are prioritizing family welfare and gender balance despite limited resources.

Globally, the push for longer parental leave gained momentum during and after the COVID-19 pandemic , as workplaces grappled with new norms around remote work and caregiving.

In many high-income countries, cultural and professional barriers still limit men’s participation in parental leave. But in the Global South, legal reforms are moving faster than societal skepticism, showing that ambition, not affluence, drives change.

So far, Rwanda, Ghana, Uganda, and Eswatini have signed separate agreements with Washington. Each country has accepted small groups of people , most of whom have no personal ties to these nations.

In the latest case, ten people were flown to Eswatini, including individuals from Jamaica, Cuba, Laos, Vietnam, and Yemen. Rights groups in Eswatini, however, went to court to stop the transfer, arguing it was illegal and violated international law.

The deportees still arrived a day before the hearing resumed in Mbabane. U.S. officials defended the move, saying the policy is meant to handle “uncooperative” countries.

But human rights advocates, including those at Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, call it unethical.

They say it strips people of due process and leaves them stranded in countries where they have no connections or support systems. Governments that agree to the policy often say they are cooperating for diplomatic reasons or humanitarian grounds.

Critics, however, believe some are doing so to maintain good relations with Washington or gain other forms of support.

As Reuters reports, the Eswatini government is now facing a legal challenge over its agreement with the U.S., while there are similar disputes in Ghana over alleged unlawful detentions of deportees.

The World Health Organisation estimates that about 73 million abortions occur each year, where laws are restrictive, unsafe procedures rise and account for an estimated 4.7–13% of maternal deaths, while deaths from safe, regulated abortion are exceedingly rare.

In Europe, the European Abortion Policy Atlas compares 49 countries and territories, grading both the letter of the law and real-world access by providing availability, waiting periods, and cost barriers.

France made global headlines in March 2024 by explicitly protecting abortion in its Constitution, a move described by the government and international media as a world first for constitutional stature.

In the United States , the Supreme Court in June 2024 rejected a high-profile challenge to the abortion pill mifepristone on standing grounds, leaving federal access rules in place while other litigation continues.

In Mexico, a September 2023 ruling ordered federal decriminalisation, requiring national facilities to provide care, an inflexion point in Latin America’s “green wave” as implementation spreads across states.

Elsewhere in Europe, Poland remains one of Europe’s most restrictive jurisdictions despite a change in government; 2025 has seen intensified civil-society pressure and new services opening to support those seeking care, underscoring the legal stalemate.

In Germany, debate over removing abortion from the criminal code (Section 218) has gathered momentum, with the governing coalition studying reforms in 2024–2025 and public discussion intensifying this summer.

Groups that fail to comply risk penalties, suspension of credentials, and possible criminal investigation. They are also required to align religious doctrine with state ideology under the principle of “Sinicisation.”

“Religious clergy engaging in online activities should love the motherland, support the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party, uphold the socialist system, follow national laws and regulations, and adhere to relevant provisions on managing religious affairs,” according to Article 2 of the rules translated to English by religious rights magazine Bitter Winter .

Further provisions tighten political control: Article 7 states that organisations are banned from publishing content that “incites subversion of state power, opposes the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party, [and] undermines the socialist system.”

The measures also restrict where preaching can take place. Article 5 limits online religious activity to official websites, apps, forums and platforms that have secured an Internet Religious Information Services Licence. Personal social media accounts, livestreams and private groups are explicitly forbidden.

According to Bitter Winter, the rules also extend to youth activities. 

“Clergy may not evangelize to underage users or organize youth religious camps or training,” it reported. The same provision bans attempts to commercialise religious life, including fundraising, merchandise sales, or monetising online religious activities.

Technology is not exempt. Generative artificial intelligence cannot be used to produce or disseminate religious content.

National security is a key theme underpinning the new rules, with provisions forbidding foreign “religious infiltration,” extremist teachings, and even fortune-telling or astrology. 

The rules also restrict worship itself, outlawing livestreamed sermons, online rituals, and even meditation sessions unless conducted on state-approved platforms.

Beijing formally recognises five faiths: Buddhism, Catholicism, Islam, Protestantism and Taoism. 

Controls across these beliefs are stern, with activities such as proselytising and Sunday schools facing bans. Groups outside the recognised framework, including Falun Gong, remain outlawed.

Under Xi Jinping, enforcement of these rules has hardened. Rights groups say more than a million Uyghurs have been detained in camps in Xinjiang, accusations China rejects as “counter-terrorism” measures. 

Christians worshipping in unauthorised “house churches” and underground Catholic clergy have also faced arrests, keeping China high on global rankings for religious restrictions.

An interesting global map from The World in Maps reveals the fact that countries, including the United Kingdom, Mexico, Australia, and Eritrea, officially have no declared official language.

In Mexico, the constitution doesn’t name any official language, even though Spanish dominates as the de facto language used by over 99% of the population in government, education, and media. The constitution, honouring the nation's rich heritage, also formally recognises 68 indigenous languages as equally valid under the 2003 General Law of Linguistic Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

The United Kingdom strictly has no official national language. However, it supports language equality at the regional level, like Welsh in Wales, Gaelic in Scotland, and Irish in Northern Ireland, all enshrined via legislation and regional charters.

Similarly, Australia does not officially declare any language, though English is the dominant working language. This absence reflects a longstanding respect for both its colonial legacy and its multicultural society.

Eritrea, governed by a constitution that ensures "the equality of all Eritrean languages," avoids privileging any single language. Instead, it supports Tigrinya, Arabic, and English, along with several indigenous tongues, as working languages across the country.

According to language policy analysts (via World Population Review ), these examples represent global recognition that a nation’s identity isn’t tied to a legislated tongue, but rather to cultural, historical, and linguistic harmony.

Officials say the policy is aimed at curbing hate speech, misinformation and cybercrime .

Among the 26 social media sites affected were photo and video messaging app Snapchat, professional networking platform LinkedIn, online forum site Reddit, and free messaging app WhatsApp. 

Only five platforms — TikTok, Viber, Witk, Nimbuzz, and Popo Live — met the deadline, while Telegram and Global Diary remain under review. Meta has been in contact with Nepalese officials about the requirements.

The ban has drawn criticism from opposition figures, who warn it threatens freedom of expression. 

“Regulation is necessary, but the government must first identify what the problem is and where it lies,” said Raj Pandey, leader of the parliament’s main opposition party. “If social media is shut down, the country will become chaotic. We oppose this decision.”

“Regulation is necessary, but the government must first identify what the problem is and where it lies,” Pandey said. “If social media is shut down, the country will become chaotic. We oppose this decision.”

Nepal has an estimated 14.3 million active social media users in Nepal as of early 2025, or nearly half of its population, according to Data Reportal .

Around 14.3 million people use Facebook, 3.9 million use Instagram, 2 million use LinkedIn and 390,000 use X.

Officials have warned that the flag, viewed by some as a protest against President Prabowo Subianto’s policies , must not be flown alongside the red-and-white Merah Putih national flag.

Bengawan Aryanto, a 58-year-old entrepreneur, voiced support for the movement.

“I actually wanted to join in. But I had a lot to think about. Still, I think it’s good, it’s creative. And if I get the chance, I’ll wear a One Piece t-shirt, drink One Piece coffee, and even raise the One Piece flag as a form of protest against the government, which isn’t doing well right now,” he said.

Amnesty International Indonesia has questioned the legal basis for banning the flag.

“Has he incited hatred based on religion , ethnicity, race, intergroup relations, national origin or sexual orientation? Is he inciting discrimination on these grounds? Is he propagating a war? For example, of a state or an armed group? If not, then it cannot be banned,” said Usman Hamid, its executive director.

Hamid also noted symbolic parallels between the One Piece flag and Indonesia’s own.

“If we connect it with Indonesia’s independence, on August 17, the spirit of One Piece is the same as that of the Merah Putih : fighting oppression, declaring independence and freedom, and striving for justice and the removal of all restraints,” he said.

The One Piece manga, created by Eiichiro Oda in 1997, follows the adventures of a band of pirates in search of a legendary treasure. It has become one of the best-selling comics of all time and has a massive global fan base, with its Jolly Roger emblem recognised worldwide.

Jabbi explained that while Gambia’s communications regulator, PURA, had recommended Starlink for a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) license, his assumption of office prompted a deeper review of the license application. He said this scrutiny was necessary to ensure compliance with Gambian laws and international best practices, the Standard reports.

“Upon review, I identified several critical issues surrounding the license that required further analysis and consultations, including at the cabinet level,” Jabbi said, adding that Starlink was later found not to qualify under the VSAT category, triggering a reassessment.

The minister confirmed that both Starlink and U.S. officials repeatedly followed up, including during his visit to Washington for World Bank meetings, where the issue was raised again. “Interpretations may vary depending on jurisdiction and culture. However, it is true that the U.S. State Department, U.S. Embassy, and Starlink have been very persistent and critical in their follow-up,” he noted.

Jabbi emphasised that the delay stems from the disruptive nature of Starlink’s technology and the need to consider the country economic, political, social, and security implications. The final decision, he said, will be made at the cabinet level and communicated accordingly.

Inflation in Laos fell to 8.3% in May from 11.1% in April, according to the Lao Statistics Bureau. The sharpest increase was in housing, water, electricity, and gas (21.6%), followed by medical care (19.8%), household goods (16.3%), and education (15.5%). In response, the government has tightened monetary policy, with the central bank aiming to reduce inflation to single digits by 2025.

Russia's top prosecutor announces planned anti-terrorism cooperation with Laos

Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov met Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith to discuss strengthening law enforcement ties. Krasnov emphasised cooperation on issues like cybercrime, terrorism, drug trafficking, and corruption. He expressed confidence in deepening bilateral efforts. Sisoulith welcomed the visit, calling it "remarkable" and highlighting the potential for expanded collaboration.

Laos unveils new foreign policy for 2025

The Laotian government has introduced its 2025 foreign policy, focusing on enhancing ties with regional and global partners. Key priorities include economic cooperation, security, and sustainable development in response to global challenges. The policy was launched at an official event in Vientiane, attended by top officials and international representatives, according to Laotian Times . The move signals Laos’s ambition to play a more active role in Asia’s geopolitical arena.

Prabowo invites Laos PM to step up bilateral trade

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto invited Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone to boost bilateral trade during their meeting at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. He highlighted the need for joint efforts against drug smuggling, human trafficking, and online crimes. Prabowo praised Laos’s 2024 ASEAN chairmanship and proposed cooperation in minerals, agriculture, and fertilisers. He noted the slight trade decline and emphasised strengthening ties. Several Indonesian ministers joined the talks.

Laos, Malaysia form new strategic partnership to boost cross-border trade

Laos and Malaysia have established a strategic partnership to enhance cross-border trade via a new rail-sea route, marked by a Memorandum of Cooperation between Penang Port Sdn Bhd and Thanaleng Dry Port. The agreement was signed during Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone’s official visit to Malaysia, alongside Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. According to laopost.com , the initiative aims to strengthen economic ties and regional trade by utilising key logistics hubs—Thanaleng Dry Port in Laos and Penang Port in Malaysia.

The United States had the most violations, with 8.5 million videos removed.

In total, TikTok deleted 153 million videos worldwide in the period. The company said 90% of all videos removed came from the top 50 countries. The videos were taken down for breaking rules on issues such as privacy, safety, security, and mental health.

TikTok also deleted 211.5 million accounts during this period. Most of these were fake accounts, which made up 185.3 million of the total.

Another 20.5 million accounts were removed because they were suspected to be owned by users under 13 years old. 5.6 million accounts were also deleted for other reasons.

The company said it is working hard to stop fake accounts and protect users from harm. It recently made changes to better track and remove fake likes and followers.

Despite these actions, TikTok faces problems in different countries over safety concerns. In October, 13 U.S. states and Washington D.C. sued TikTok, accusing it of failing to protect young users. The lawsuits claim that TikTok’s app is designed to be addictive, which could harm children’s mental health. The lawsuits seek penalties and stricter rules for TikTok.

The Senate’s decision follows a joint communication submitted by Senators Amara Konneh (Gbarpolu County), Abraham Darius Dillon (Montserrado County), Augustine Chea (Sinoe County), and Gbehzongar Findley (Grand Bassa County). They emphasised the urgency of reassessing Liberia’s budgetary framework, particularly its allocations for the next four years, given the financial vacuum left by the U.S. decision.

The funding freeze follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s inauguration, after which an internal memo was sent to U.S. officials and embassies, including Liberia, ordering a halt to nearly all existing foreign assistance and pausing new aid.

Brenda Moore, Founder and Executive Director of the Kids’ Educational Engagement Project (KEEP) highlighted the economic and developmental strain caused by the aid suspension.

“The suspension of USAID funding will put the government under pressure to find alternatives to the existing programs and projects,” Moore stated. “Allowing some of these projects to be halted altogether will mean restart and remobilization costs not initially included in the operational budget. With limited resources, this is no easy task. The stop-work order will not only halt progress but has also put a strain on our local economy and the livelihoods of many Liberians.”

The aid suspension is part of a policy shift under Trump’s “America First” initiative, temporarily halting billions of dollars in foreign assistance pending a 90-day review by the U.S. State Department.

According to The New Times , this change was approved by a Presidential Order after a Cabinet meeting on January 17.

It's the first increase in nearly seven years; the last adjustment in 2018 raised the minimum pension from Rwf5,000 ( $3.60) to Rwf13,000 (about $9.36).

RSSB stated that the new changes aim to improve the well-being of beneficiaries across all income levels. Retirees with lower pensions will see the largest percentage increases.

For instance, those currently receiving Rwf20,000 ($14.40) will now get Rwf47,710 ($34.28).

Pensioners receiving Rwf50,000 ($36.00) will see their benefits increase to Rwf92,710 (about $66.64).

While those getting Rwf100,000 ($72.00) will have their benefits rise to Rwf155,210 (around $111.52).

Higher-income retirees will also receive increases, though the percentage is smaller. For instance, pensioners earning Rwf1,000,000 ($720.00) will now receive Rwf1,095,210 (approximately $786.80) per month.

RSSB noted that these adjustments will apply only to existing beneficiaries. In the fiscal year 2023-2024, the government paid out Rwf53 billion (around $38.16 million) in pension benefits to over 58,000 retirees.

This move is part of Rwanda's efforts to provide better support to its retired population.

During his presidency, Trump travelled extensively, aiming to strengthen U.S. ties with key allies and engage with adversaries on the global stage. His first overseas trip as president took him to Saudi Arabia in May 2017. This visit was a pivotal moment in U.S.-Saudi relations, with Trump participating in the Arab Islamic American Summit. It also highlighted his administration’s focus on combating terrorism and fostering stronger economic and defence ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

One of the most dramatic moments of Trump’s foreign policy came when he became the first sitting U.S. president to meet with a North Korean leader. In 2018, Trump travelled to Singapore for a historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The meeting was followed by another summit in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 2019. While the talks raised hopes for a breakthrough on North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, they ultimately failed to yield a concrete deal. Nevertheless, these visits marked a significant departure from traditional diplomatic approaches.

Trump’s 2017 visit to Israel was also a defining moment in his presidency. During the trip, he made the controversial decision to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, a decision that had long been called for by pro-Israel advocates but was met with strong criticism from Palestinians and many in the international community. His visit also focused on solidifying U.S.-Israel ties, particularly in light of growing concerns about Iran’s regional influence.

Trump’s visits to European countries during his presidency were frequent and often tense. Trump focused on issues such as NATO commitments, trade negotiations, and the European security framework in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy. His interactions with European leaders were sometimes strained, especially over issues like climate change and defence spending. Despite these tensions, his visits underscored the importance of transatlantic relations.

Another significant stop during Trump’s term was China, where he travelled in 2017 for talks with President Xi Jinping. The visit came amid escalating trade tensions between the two nations. During the trip, Trump and Xi discussed the trade imbalance and broader concerns regarding North Korea. The visit highlighted Trump’s “America First” trade policy, which sought to reduce the U.S. trade deficit and address what he saw as unfair economic practices by China.

Since leaving office, Trump has remained an influential figure on the international stage. He continues to make headlines for his public statements, attendance at political rallies, and participation in global conversations. In particular, Trump has maintained a strong connection with the United Kingdom, often commenting on political developments such as Brexit and continuing to engage with British conservatives.

He has also remained a key figure in Israeli politics, and reports suggest that he may visit the country again shortly to discuss ongoing developments, including the success of the Abraham Accords and the broader Middle East peace process. These agreements, which were brokered under his administration, normalised relations between Israel and several Arab nations, including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

Looking ahead, speculation about Trump’s future travels continues to swirl. While his official travel plans for 2025 have not been confirmed, some analysts believe he may visit countries like Russia, China, or Brazil. His ongoing influence within the U.S. Republican Party and his close relationships with leaders like Russian President Vladimir Putin and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro suggest that future diplomatic missions could focus on strengthening political alliances with these nations.

As president and post-office, Trump’s global presence reflects a distinctive approach to diplomacy—one that prioritises direct engagement, personal relationships with foreign leaders, and unconventional negotiations. Whether his future travels will follow this same pattern or evolve into a new chapter remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that his influence on the global stage continues to shape international discussions on diplomacy, trade, and security.

Georges, currently an Assistant Superintendent of Police, will take on the role of Commissioner of Prisons, succeeding Raymond St. Ange. St. Ange has stated he will be available to assist Georges in her new role as needed, Seychelles News Agency reports.

In his address, President Ramkalawan also revealed plans to appoint a new board for the Islands Development Company (IDC) next week.

This board will oversee the transition to a new CEO before the end of the year, as the current CEO, Glenny Savy, is set to retire.

Ramkalawan emphasised that the address was an opportunity to discuss various national issues and reflect on the country's future direction.

The protests turned violent, with demonstrators setting fire to numerous government buildings, including the Dhaka headquarters of state broadcaster Bangladesh Television. The clashes also resulted in at least 39 deaths, with the majority caused by police fire. Over 700 people were injured, including 104 police officers and 30 journalists.

In response to the escalating violence, the government has imposed a nationwide internet blackout and banned all public rallies in the capital, Dhaka. The police have also arrested several opposition leaders, including Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed, the joint secretary of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party.

The Thai cabinet has also approved visa-on-arrival for 31 countries, an increase from the previous 19. The country aims to reach a record 40 million foreign arrivals for the year, with expected revenue of over $95.73 billion, up from 39.9 million arrivals and $63 billion in revenue in 2019.

According to reports , the new initiatives benefit students, digital nomads, and retirees. Postgraduate students can now stay in Thailand for an additional year after graduation, while digital nomads will benefit from the “Destination Thailand Visa” valid for five years, allowing a 180-day maximum stay per visit. For retirees aged 50 and above, the health insurance requirement for long-stay visas has been reduced from $82,000 to $12,000.

The Southeast Asian nation aims to solidify its position as a top tourist destination by attracting visitors from key markets such as China and India through visa waivers, Channel News Asia reported.

India's visa-free entry to Thailand, granted last year has been extended for another six months.

Wahab noted that various canals in the city have been clogged due to plastic waste, despite regular cleaning and evacuation of drains, and most markets and roads are littered with large amounts of styrofoam waste.

The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has therefore been ordered to begin the implementation of the ban with immediate effect in collaboration with the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI).

LAWMA and KAI, according to Guardian Nigeria , have also been tasked to stop the production of these materials by companies and distribution of same.

“Lagos State took the present action, relying on several enabling laws and regulations such as the National Environmental (Sanitation and Waste Control) Regulation 2009 which was established under the NESREA Act that prohibited and specifically banned single-use plastic in the country but has not been enforced,” Wahab was quoted by Guardian Nigeria .

The 2017 State Environmental Management and Protection Law which states under section 56(I) (Y), “Prevent, stop or discontinue any activity or omission, which is likely to cause harm or has caused harm to human health or the environment” was also considered in making the decision, according to the Commissioner.