He also claimed that some of these weapons had surfaced in conflict zones across Africa and the Middle East . The meeting focused on rising extremist threats and international co-operation, according to the CIS Anti-Terrorism Centre.

The proposal forms part of a broader security strategy that includes intensified state intervention in 50 high-risk neighbourhoods, combining preventive patrols with operations against criminal organisations and illicit markets. Kast framed the initiative as a way to reinforce accountability, arguing that those who engage in destructive acts should not receive state benefits.

The announcement signals a continuation of the government ’s hardline stance on crime, with the president emphasising that organised crime “has no place in Chile” and pledging to demonstrate the full strength of the state.

Noboa highlighted that this addition is part of a broader security strategy involving international allies like the United States and the United Arab Emirates, aiming to restore safety and stability across the country.

For supporters, the imagery reflected a long-standing political goal. For critics, it underscored what they see as a troubling shift towards extremism within Israeli politics.

The noose is not an incidental design choice. It has become a central emblem of Ben-Gvir’s far-right Otzma Yehudit party, which has campaigned for the introduction of the death penalty specifically for those convicted of Palestinian terrorism. 

In recent months, the symbol has appeared on pins worn by politicians and supporters during parliamentary debates, signalling alignment with the policy .

That legislative push culminated earlier this year when Israel’s Knesset approved a measure making death by hanging a default sentence for certain terrorism-related offences. The move marked a significant departure from longstanding legal norms: Israel effectively abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes in 1954 and has not carried out executions since 1962.

Human rights groups and several Western governments have criticised the law as discriminatory, warning that it would disproportionately affect Palestinians, particularly those in the occupied West Bank. A joint statement by foreign ministers from several countries cautioned that the legislation risks undermining democratic principles.

Against that backdrop, the birthday cake’s message has been widely interpreted as a celebration of political success. The phrase “Sometimes dreams come true” was seen by critics as a direct reference to the passage of the law — a goal Ben-Gvir has championed for years.

Further controversy stemmed from the presence of senior officials at the event, including political allies and police figures. Opponents argue that their attendance blurred the line between state institutions and partisan ideology, reinforcing concerns about the growing influence of hardline politics within the government .

Ben-Gvir’s supporters, however, frame the policy as a necessary deterrent against terrorism, reflecting public demand for tougher security measures.

Gunshots erupted shortly after dinner began, prompting panic inside the ballroom as Secret Service agents rushed Trump and First Lady Melania Trump from the venue.

What happened

According to US officials, the suspect allegedly charged towards a Secret Service checkpoint in the hotel lobby while carrying multiple weapons, including a shotgun, a handgun and several knives.

Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said investigators believe the man acted alone. The suspect, identified by US media as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, was taken into custody and later brought to a local hospital for evaluation.

Jeffrey Carroll, Washington’s police chief, said investigators believe at least one shot was fired during the confrontation. A Secret Service officer was struck but avoided serious injury after the bullet hit a ballistic vest, Trump later told reporters at a White House briefing.

Many attendees took cover beneath tables while security personnel secured the room.

Trump said the attacker did not breach the ballroom itself and praised law enforcement for responding swiftly. He later suggested the White House should host future events in a more secure setting.

Previous assassination attempts

The incident marks the latest in a string of threats against Trump over the past two years.

In July 2024, Trump was grazed by a bullet during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, in an attack that shocked the country and intensified concerns over political violence in the United States.

Months later, another armed suspect was confronted by federal agents near Trump’s golf club in Florida , forcing the president into protective custody once again.

Dinner to be rescheduled

The White House Correspondents’ Association later announced that the annual dinner would be rescheduled within the next 30 days.

“We will do this again,” association president Weijia Jiang told guests after the incident.

Lebanese officials have signalled openness to a pause in military activity—if not a full ceasefire—ahead of planned talks with Israel. The initiative reflects growing pressure to contain escalating violence along the border, as diplomatic efforts intensify. Authorities stressed that halting hostilities could create conditions for meaningful negotiations, although divisions remain internally over how to approach Israel. The talks are seen as a rare opportunity to de-escalate a conflict that has rapidly worsened in recent weeks. However, the absence of consensus within Lebanon complicates the government’s position. The outcome will likely depend on both regional dynamics and international mediation efforts.

Marco Rubio to join historic Lebanon–Israel talks

Senior US officials, including Marco Rubio, are set to participate in high-level talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington. The meeting marks the first direct engagement between the two sides in decades, underscoring the urgency of the crisis. According to reports, discussions will focus on securing a ceasefire and addressing broader security concerns, particularly the role of armed groups. Washington’s involvement highlights the international dimension of the conflict and efforts to broker stability. However, expectations remain cautious given entrenched positions on both sides. The talks come amid ongoing violence and humanitarian concerns.

Government bans non-state weapons in Beirut

The Lebanese government has moved to ban the presence of non-state weapons in Beirut, reinforcing its authority over security matters. The decision forms part of broader efforts to assert state control and limit the influence of armed groups such as Hezbollah. Officials emphasised that all military activity must fall under state institutions, signalling a significant policy shift. The measure follows escalating tensions and internal criticism over the role of militias in dragging Lebanon into conflict. Analysts warn that enforcing the ban could prove challenging given Hezbollah’s entrenched position. Nonetheless, the move reflects increasing pressure for centralised control

Civilian toll mounts as Israeli airstrikes continue

The number of casualties in Lebanon has surpassed 1,900 as Israeli airstrikes continue across the country, according to media reports. The bombardment has caused widespread destruction in urban and rural areas, displacing large numbers of civilians. Hospitals and emergency services are under severe strain as they respond to the growing humanitarian crisis. The escalation follows renewed hostilities linked to the broader regional conflict involving Iran and allied groups. International actors have raised concerns over the scale of the violence and its impact on civilians. Despite diplomatic efforts, there are few signs of an immediate de-escalation.

Hezbollah tensions rise amid protests and army warnings

Tensions within Lebanon are intensifying as Hezbollah faces growing opposition and protests. Demonstrations have erupted against the group’s actions, which many blame for drawing the country deeper into conflict. In response, the Lebanese army has warned it may intervene firmly to maintain order and uphold state authority. The standoff highlights deep divisions within Lebanese society over Hezbollah’s role and influence. Political leaders are increasingly under pressure to balance internal stability with external threats. The situation remains volatile as both political and security tensions continue to escalate.

But for now, the station is not entirely “unmanned”. Uniformed officers are standing by to demonstrate how the system works, giving the space the feel of a tech showroom rather than a typical police post.

Recently opened, staff “are here to help people get used to it,” the head of the police’s technology expansion department, Cdr Demissie Yilma, told the BBC . Inside one booth, he tapped through the steps of making a report, selecting whether it is a crime, a traffic matter, or a general concern, entering details, and submitting the complaint.

After the report is filed, an officer appears on the screen, a real person based at a remote location, not a chatbot and begins asking follow-up questions and taking down information. “If there is a problem, officers respond immediately and patrol the area mentioned by the reporter,” Demissie said.

In its first week of operation last month, the station received three reports, a lost passport, a financial fraud case and a routine complaint. Demissie said he expects usage to increase as more people become aware of the service. “The future police service should be near the citizens,” he said.

Officials argue the model could expand access to policing in areas where there may not be enough personnel to run a full station, even if it reduces face-to-face contact. At the launch, Abiy was quoted in state media as saying the project aims to make law enforcement institutions “competent and competitive,” framing it as part of a wider digital reform drive.

That push is anchored by Digital Ethiopia 2030, a national strategy to digitise public services from identity systems and payments to courts and public administration. However, internet access remains relatively low in Ethiopia, and recent years of conflict and political upheaval have also led to internet blackouts, slowing the pace of digital transformation.

Even so, Ethiopia has been moving ahead with reforms such as opening up the telecoms sector, expanding mobile phone payments in birr, rolling out a national digital ID, and putting more government services online.

Kuwait’s Interior Ministry said it had arrested members of a Hezbollah-affiliated terrorist cell accused of planning operations that threatened national security. Authorities described the operation as a major success in preventing destabilising activities inside the country. The group was reportedly linked to external networks and had been under surveillance before being apprehended. The case highlights Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to counter extremist threats and maintain internal stability amid a volatile regional environment.

Seven hostile drones shot down

In a separate development, the Kuwait National Guard announced it had intercepted and downed seven hostile drones within 24 hours, signalling a sharp escalation in aerial threats. Officials did not disclose the origin of the drones but indicated they were considered hostile and posed a direct security risk. The incident reflects a broader pattern of increasing drone activity across the Gulf, where such technology is being used in asymmetric warfare.

Kuwait condemns Iranian attacks

Kuwait strongly condemned continued Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf states, aligning with broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) positions. In a statement, Kuwaiti authorities criticised Tehran’s actions as destabilising and called for respect for regional sovereignty.

Dispute over UN reporting

Kuwait also rejected aspects of recent United Nations reporting , arguing that the assessments failed to clearly and explicitly condemn Iran’s role in the attacks. Officials said the omission undermines international accountability and called for stronger global responses to escalating security threats in the region.

GCC issues unified response

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) echoed Kuwait’s stance , issuing a collective condemnation of what it described as “heinous” Iranian attacks against member states. The unified response underscores growing alignment among Gulf nations as they face shared security challenges, particularly in relation to missile and drone threats.

The concert, spanning Gwanghwamun Square to City Hall, is projected to draw as many as 260,000 people . While only about 22,000 attendees hold tickets, large crowds are anticipated to gather in surrounding public areas, raising concerns over crowd control and emergency response.

To contain this mammoth crowd, authorities plan to deploy around 4,800 police officers alongside 3,400 city officials and support staff. Measures include managing pedestrian flow, reinforcing emergency services , and tightening counterterrorism monitoring. 

Beyond physical attendance, the event will also be streamed live to 190 countries, amplifying its global profile — and the pressure on organisers to ensure safety.

The heightened vigilance reflects lingering sensitivities in South Korea over large-scale crowd risks, with officials keen to avoid any repeat of past incidents, such as the 2022 Halloween tragedy in Seoul, where 159 people were killed. 

The performance coincides with the release of BTS’s new album, Arirang, on March 20 — their first in more than three years — and marks the group’s return to the stage as a complete unit following members’ military service commitments. 

A global tour is set to follow in April.

Around the venue, anticipation is mixed with uncertainty. Some local businesses are preparing for an influx of international fans, extending operating hours and adopting BTS-themed promotions.

Despite the festive mood surrounding BTS’s return, officials have made clear that the scale of the event demands caution. As Seoul prepares to host a global audience, the focus remains firmly on ensuring that the long-awaited comeback unfolds without incident.

The video appeared days after Trump unveiled the coalition at an event in Florida alongside leaders from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago.

Trump said the initiative was designed to curb drug cartels and transnational gangs, which he described as an “unacceptable threat” to national security and one that could only be defeated by “unleashing the power of the militaries.” 

Xinhua’s animated clip, however, cast the plan in a very different light.

The satire appears aimed at Washington’s long-standing role as a security power in the Americas, suggesting that U.S. interventions can themselves fuel instability.

The video also reflects the increasingly sharp messaging battle between Washington and Beijing over influence in Latin America.

Trump has repeatedly vowed to restore what he calls American leadership in the hemisphere and push back against China’s growing economic presence in the region. 

Beijing has expanded trade, financing and infrastructure investment across Latin America in recent years, often filling gaps left by declining Western development funding.

While Washington frames its new coalition as a security partnership against drug trafficking and organised crime, Chinese officials have warned against what they see as a return to Cold War-style power politics in the region.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said over the weekend that Beijing’s engagement with Latin America is focused on trade and development and is not directed against any third party.

“The international stage of the 21st century should no longer be a stage for the old dramas of the 19th century,” Wang said.

U.S. officials, meanwhile, argue that initiatives such as the Shield of the Americas are aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and improving security across the hemisphere.

“We want our hemisphere to be safer, to be more sovereign, and to be more prosperous,” U.S. special envoy Kristi Noem told regional leaders during a working meeting following the launch.

The case was disclosed by Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, inspector general of the Philippine Navy, during a security briefing that outlined how the system worked and why it was difficult for authorities to detect.

According to officials, the application initially appeared identical to a normal gaming app. However, once a specific password prompt was entered, the programme activated a hidden messaging system embedded within the game.

“It was specifically designed so that the communications capability was embedded within the gaming app,” Trinidad said. The disguised platform allowed users to exchange messages without triggering conventional monitoring tools used to track suspicious digital communications.

Suspects are Filipinos, too

Authorities said the operation relied heavily on insiders with access to sensitive government information. 

Investigators identified three Filipino suspects using aliases — “Lawrence,” a former defence department employee who later worked with the navy; “Allyson,” described as a security sector analyst; and “Danny,” a Manila-based contact linked to the Philippine Coast Guard.

These individuals had access to documents ranging from confidential to top-secret classifications. Some of the information reportedly concerned personnel stationed aboard the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded Philippine naval vessel at Ayungin Shoal in the disputed South China Sea .

Military officials warned that such intelligence could potentially be used not only for strategic purposes but also to exert pressure on military personnel and their families.

The alleged network also relied on financial incentives. Investigators said payments ranged from four- to six-digit amounts and were transmitted through digital wallets. In some cases, transactions were reportedly disguised through everyday online purchases, such as food delivery orders, to avoid drawing attention.

Officials also described attempts by foreign operatives to recruit additional insiders. In one instance, a navy officer reported that a foreign woman had approached him and asked for sensitive information, an encounter he immediately reported to authorities.

For the Philippine government, the case highlights what security officials describe as the growing challenge of “ insider threats ” — individuals within institutions who can access classified information and may be vulnerable to recruitment.

Cornelio Valencia Jr., assistant director general of the National Security Council, said the discovery underscores the need to strengthen background checks, security clearances and monitoring systems across agencies handling sensitive data.

China’s embassy in Manila has denied any involvement in the alleged spy network, saying the country adheres to a policy of non-interference in other nations’ internal affairs and describing the accusations as damaging and unfounded.

What was compromised

NSC spokesperson Cornelio Valencia said some information about Philippine resupply missions in the West Philippine Sea had been leaked.

Authorities said the communication channels used to transmit the information have since been shut down.

How the alleged spying worked

Two suspects described their actions to Reuters under an agreement not to reveal their identities.

Another suspect said he was initially recruited through a paid writing offer.

China’s response

China’s foreign ministry rejected the accusations.

Officials said the case was unclear and lacked conclusive evidence.

What the government is pushing

The NSC is urging Congress to pass new laws to strengthen counter-intelligence capabilities, including:

Officials say the measures would expand investigative powers and help authorities prevent and disrupt foreign intelligence operations.

The bigger picture

The case comes as tensions between the Philippines and China remain high in the West Philippine Sea, where vessels from both sides frequently confront each other during Philippine resupply missions to its outposts.

She also offered condolences to the families of U.S. service members killed in recent events, though she did not reference specific operations. “Their bravery and dedication will always be remembered,” she said , adding that she wished a swift recovery to those injured.

During the session, Rosemary DiCarlo, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, warned that children are among those most severely affected when conflicts erupt. She noted that schools in Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman had shifted to remote learning due to ongoing military operations in the region. She also referenced reports from Iran of a strike on an elementary school in Minab.

Iranian officials say the strike killed more than 150 people, including children, and have blamed the United States and Israel . The U.S. military’s Central Command stated that it was reviewing the reports, while Israel’s military reported that it was not aware of any operations in the area.

Ahead of the meeting, Iran ’s ambassador to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, criticised Washington, calling it “deeply shameful and hypocritical” for convening a session on protecting children while military actions continue.

Thailand’s gross domestic product surpassed forecasts in the fourth quarter of 2025, driven primarily by strong performance in the industrial and retail sectors. The briefing notes that full-year economic growth reached 2.4%, supported by investment momentum and targeted electric vehicle incentives. Government stimulus measures and rising exports also contributed to the stronger-than-expected performance. The data reflect a broader recovery pattern, with industrial output and domestic consumption playing central roles. Export growth and state-led economic stimulus were key pillars underpinning the expansion.

Investment momentum and EV incentives shape economic recovery

Thailand’s economy ended 2025 stronger than expected, boosting confidence in the new government. Data from the NESDC showed GDP grew 2.5% year-on-year in the fourth quarter, up from 1.2% in Q3 and above market forecasts. Investment drove the late-year rebound, jumping 8.1% in the fourth quarter, the fastest pace since 2016 and up from 1.4% in Q3. Private investment rose 6.5%, led by spending on industrial machinery and office equipment as business confidence improved. The government’s EV 3.0 incentive scheme also spurred demand, with consumers rushing to buy electric vehicles before subsidies expired, lifting durable goods spending 12.2%. Overall household consumption grew 3.3%, supported by low inflation and loose monetary policy despite high household debt.

Demographic shift towards an ageing society pressures labour and welfare systems

Thailand’s population growth has slowed to 0.42% , the lowest rate since the census began, according to preliminary results from the National Statistical Office’s 2025 population and household census. The 12th population census and sixth household census recorded 70.3 million people and 26.3 million households. While the population is still rising, growth is slowing sharply, with annual births significantly down compared with previous years.

Security operations intensify along the northern and eastern borders

Smuggling syndicates along the Malaysia–Thailand border in Kelantan have shifted tactics, using sea routes and landing along the Kelantan River after tighter security at the Golok River. PGA Southeast Brigade Commander SAC Ahmad Radzi Hussain said syndicates are now bringing illegal immigrants by boat through tributaries to remote villages away from monitoring posts. Between Jan 1 and February 13, the PGA arrested 84 illegal immigrants (75 men, nine women). The largest group were Myanmar nationals (31), followed by Bangladeshis (19), Thais (17), Nepalis (10), Indians (4), Indonesians (2), and one Nigerian.

Government sets 2026 export targets

Thailand’s Commerce Ministry is aiming for Bt142bn in exports in 2026 through about 700 initiatives. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij said the plan could support over 294,500 Thai businesses. Measures include online promotion via thaitrade.com, trade fairs, business matching, overseas outreach, and franchise support. A US trade mission will run from February 24–28, with firms such as Otis McAllister Inc. joining talks on boosting Thai exports. In March, the Thailand’s Best Friend Project will honour around 20 major global importers, while the Special Task Force Project will target new markets including China, India, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, plus Africa and Latin America.

General Waker said the army had carried out its assigned responsibilities during the election period and was now awaiting instructions from the incoming administration.

The country has returned to democratic rule, he said, adding that the military would return to the barracks as soon as directed by the new government.

However, he noted that some troops would remain deployed temporarily to help maintain law and order until the police fully regain control of security operations.

This reflects an overwhelming acceptance of the recent polls ’ results, in which the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) won a decisive majority, securing 209 of 300 seats and giving it a two-thirds mandate to form the next government.

“The people of Bangladesh accept the result,” Bangladeshi journalist Samiur Rahman Sazzad told Global South World , dismissing criticisms from Hasina and her party in exile that the elections were a “well-planned farce” and were not inclusive.

After tight election security

Bangladesh’s army had been deployed nationwide in support of civilian authorities during the election, amid heightened political tensions. Additional forces sent out during the period have already been scaled back, according to meeting sources.

In his address, General Waker thanked army personnel for what he described as their professionalism and strong sense of responsibility while carrying out election duties.

“Whatever was necessary in the interest of the people has been completed,” he said. 

Referring to the military’s role in stabilising the political environment, he said the country and its people would remember the army’s service.

He also stressed the importance of maintaining discipline within the ranks, urging commanders to uphold the chain of command and sustain morale among troops.

The army chief cautioned personnel to remain vigilant against misinformation and disinformation, an issue that has become increasingly prominent during politically sensitive periods.

Bangladesh’s military has historically played a significant role during periods of political uncertainty, but General Waker’s remarks signal an intention to step back once the elected civilian leadership formally assumes office.

The crux of the tension lies in Tokyo’s recent strategic pivot. The Takaichi administration in Japan has been increasingly vocal about its “survivability” in a Taiwan conflict, effectively linking the security of the Taiwan Strait to Japan’s own sovereign defence. Wang Yi didn’t just rebut this; he weaponised the venue itself. Standing on German soil - a nation that has spent eighty years performing the arduous work of historical “liquidation”. Wang drew a stinging parallel. He lauded Germany for its moral clarity while accusing Japan of harbouring “unabandoned colonial ambitions” and allowing the “ghost of militarism” to dictate its modern defence posture.

His warning was devoid of typical diplomatic ambiguity:  “If Japan seeks to gamble once more, it will face a swifter defeat and a more disastrous loss.”  This was a calculated move to frame Japan as the “Revisionist Power” in the eyes of the West, using the memory of World War II to invalidate Japan’s current push for security “normalisation.”

A House Divided: The Transactional West

While Beijing was drawing red lines in Asia, the “Western” front showed deep fissures. The discourse from Washington has shifted from “leadership” to “leverage.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s presence in Munich was less about reassuring allies and more about setting the terms of a new, transactional contract. The message to Berlin and Paris was clear: the American security umbrella is no longer a public good: it is a conditional service. This has forced Germany into a state of “Anxious Realism.” Chancellor Merz’s government is now walking a razor’s edge, scrambling to build a “European pillar” of defence to appease Washington, while simultaneously resisting “de-coupling” from China to save its struggling industrial heartland.

Meanwhile, France continues to play the “Strategic Autonomist.” The French delegation’s rhetoric suggests they have already mourned the death of the old transatlantic order. For Paris, the instability is an opportunity to forge a “Third Pole,” seeking a pragmatic, if tense, coexistence with Beijing to offset the “Wrecking-ball Politics” coming out of a polarised Washington.

The article solely represents the views of Yubin Du, a journalist for Chinese broadcaster CGTN who was based in Washington DC and London between 2012 and 2025.

Kwara State’s governor condemned the violence as a “cowardly” attack on civilians, while President Bola Tinubu labelled it “beastly” and ordered the deployment of an army battalion to the Kaiama district to support security forces. The killings come amid ongoing insecurity in Nigeria, where jihadist insurgency in the north-east and bandit attacks across central and northern regions continue to challenge authorities, despite recent military operations claimed to have weakened armed groups.

At the hearing, Representative Chris Smith, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, defended the US decision to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act. He said the designation was “long overdue” given years of deadly attacks on Christian communities.

Smith said he was troubled by reports that Nigeria had hired DCI Group under a contract worth $9 million, or $750,000 a month, to influence US policymakers. He also cited a separate $120,000-a-month contract involving a Nigerian billionaire and another Washington-based firm.

“They come with well-written talking points to say there’s nothing to see here,” Smith said , arguing that the lobbying efforts risk minimising the scale of religious violence in Nigeria.

Other lawmakers cautioned against oversimplifying Nigeria’s crisis. Representative Sara Jacobs, the ranking member of the subcommittee, said the violence affects both Christians and Muslims and is driven by multiple factors, including terrorism, banditry and farmer-herder conflicts.

Jacobs also criticised recent US military strikes in Nigeria, questioning their effectiveness and warning that they could worsen instability rather than protect civilians.

Former US Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback told the hearing that CPC designations mean little without consequences, urging the US to back them with sanctions and other concrete measures.

Another witness, Dr Stephen Schneck, a former chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, said military responses could be counterproductive and noted that the cost of recent airstrikes may have exceeded funding previously used for peacebuilding and interfaith programmes.

Nigeria’s government has rejected claims that Christians are facing genocide, saying the country’s security crisis is complex and not driven solely by religion .

Speaking at a joint press conference, Bukele said El Salvador was willing to share its experience in confronting criminal gangs, allowing Chile to draw lessons suited to its own context. He framed his government’s security strategy as a practical response to escalating violence , arguing that decisive action had been central to restoring public order in his country.

Bukele also warned against what he described as the risks of inaction in the face of organised crime, questioning how human rights are interpreted in countries experiencing high levels of criminality. He suggested that allowing criminal groups to expand unchecked could have long-term consequences for state authority and public safety.

Kast, for his part, praised El Salvador’s prison system and described Bukele’s security policies as a source of inspiration, while stressing the need to adapt any measures to Chile’s legal and social framework. Earlier in the day, Kast visited the CECOT high-security prison to observe its operations, infrastructure and inmate supervision methods, reflecting security and crime control as central themes of his political agenda.

Some countries deploy large numbers of police officers to manage crime, protests, and internal stability, while others rely on smaller forces supported by social services, community policing, or private security.

The number of officers per 100,000 people is often shaped by a country’s history, political system, and recent experiences with unrest or violence, making policing levels a revealing indicator of how states balance safety with civil liberties.

At the top end of the scale are countries like Russia and several Eastern European states, where police officer ratios exceed 600 officers per 100,000 people. This places them among the most heavily policed nations in the world.

Russia’s high ratio reflects a legacy of extensive state security structures dating back to the Soviet era, as well as ongoing efforts to maintain public order across a vast territory with diverse challenges.

In South America , Argentina and Chile also show up with high police ratios. Argentina’s figure has been linked in part to provincial policing structures; each province maintains its own force, contributing to overall high numbers.

Chile similarly expanded its national police force during periods of social unrest in the 2010s and 2020s, aiming to respond to both crime and large-scale protests. These numbers often attract debate: higher policing levels don’t necessarily correspond to lower crime rates, but they do reflect governments’ emphasis on visible law enforcement.

Across Africa and Asia, countries such as South Africa and Thailand show elevated policing ratios compared with many of their neighbours. In South Africa, sustained concerns about violent crime and public safety have driven investment in policing, even as critics argue that resources might be better allocated toward community services and economic opportunity.

Thailand’s police presence is similarly robust, shaped by both internal security priorities and political protests that have marked recent years.

In contrast, many countries in Western Europe, parts of Africa, and Southeast Asia report far lower numbers of officers per capita. Nations with smaller police forces often rely more on community policing, private security partnerships, and crime prevention strategies rather than large uniformed forces.

He claimed the move was intended to “hush up” alleged abuses committed by the Congolese army and groups fighting alongside it, including local militias known as Wazalendo.

The allegations come following reports of renewed violence , looting and civilian displacement in Uvira following the withdrawal of AFC/M23 fighters from the city on January 15. After the rebels left, government troops, Wazalendo militias and other allied forces entered the city.

Local residents have reported gunfire and widespread looting, with homes, public buildings and places of worship targeted. Some residents, particularly from the Banyamulenge community, have fled the area fearing further violence.

AFC/M23 said it withdrew from Uvira as a gesture of good faith and called on the United Nations to deploy a neutral force to protect civilians and place the city under international responsibility. The Congolese government is yet to respond.

“Kabobi,” a Swahili term meaning “small Bobi,” is a derogatory nickname used by Kainerugaba, to refer to opposition leader Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.

“Now I tell you that NUP will be removed and extinguished from our land like a bad dream! We have killed 22 NUP terrorists since last week. I'm praying the 23rd is Kabobi. We will kill on sight all NUP so called 'Foot Soldiers',” his tweet read in part.

Kainerugaba, who is also the commander of Uganda’s land forces, said only President Museveni could stop him.

The comments come amid heightened tensions following Uganda’s disputed elections , which the opposition says were marked by fraud, military intimidation and repression.

President Museveni who won his seventh term in office has been in power since 1986 and has amended the constitution twice to remove age and term limits.

According to the figures shown on the above map, Portuguese respondents top the list at roughly 70% in favour of a common European army, while only Finland appears below the 50 % mark.

Countries across central and southern Europe also show solid majorities supporting an EU-wide defence force. What this really means is a growing appetite among citizens for greater strategic autonomy rather than outsourcing security entirely to external allies.

These trends reflect broader debates in European capitals about defence cooperation and self-reliance. A 2025 poll showed widespread support for deeper EU-level defence cooperation and increased defence spending, with some surveys reporting that more than three-quarters of EU citizens favour stronger joint defence initiatives.

The shift in opinion comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension. Russia ’s war in Ukraine continues to shape attitudes toward security in Europe, and leaders from several EU states have publicly discussed the idea that the bloc should be able to defend itself independently if necessary.

That debate has taken on new urgency in light of recent friction between Europe and the United States over Greenland, the world’s largest island, controlled by Denmark but strategically located between North America and Europe.

U.S. President Donald Trump reignited discussion about acquiring Greenland, arguing the island’s location is vital to U.S. security interests in the Arctic and North Atlantic. Analysts note that Greenland sits astride key missile defence and early warning routes, making it a flashpoint in great-power competition.

Greenland’s government and Denmark have firmly rejected any takeover, and large “Hands off Greenland” protests erupted in Nuuk and Copenhagen in early 2026 in defence of the island’s sovereignty.

Donald Trump, on the other hand, has announced that eight European countries will face new import tariffs of 10% starting in February and to rise to 25% by June unless Denmark agrees to sell Greenland to the United States, a move he argues is critical for American national security.

The threatened tariffs target Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands and Finland, and come amid Trump’s broader push to gain control or influence over the strategically important Arctic territory.

The EU is yet to convene to plan a countermeasure.

Arévalo said the violence was an attempt to spread fear and destabilise the country, adding that gangs later retaliated by attacking police in several regions. He also declared three days of national mourning for the fallen officers, while insisting the state of siege, which expands police and military powers, is aimed at restoring security without disrupting daily life or state institutions.

“I managed to escape from them,” Wine said, adding that he is currently not at home. His wife and other family members, however, remain under what he described as house arrest.

Wine said the heavy security presence and the overnight operation led neighbours to believe he and his family had been abducted, rumours he said were worsened by a nationwide internet shutdown that has limited access to information.

The opposition leader accused authorities of hunting for him and said he was taking steps to stay safe. He also repeated his rejection of the election results being announced by the electoral commission, describing them as fraudulent and lacking any credibility.

Wine alleged widespread ballot stuffing, military interference in the vote, the arrest of opposition leaders and polling officials, and other electoral abuses. He also condemned the killing of citizens who, he said, were peacefully protesting against what he called the theft of the election.

“The people of Uganda have the right to protest in defence of their sovereign right to determine a government of their choice,” Wine said, accusing the authorities of using violence and intimidation to suppress dissent.

Ugandan security forces have not publicly responded to Wine’s latest claims.

“I express my sincere sympathy for the uncertainty, service restrictions, and internet shutdown you experienced,” President Hassan said , adding that the government would remain vigilant to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

The president also addressed concerns about violence that occurred during and after Election Day, insisting that security measures were taken to safeguard lives and restore order. While defending the government’s response, she acknowledged that democracy is an ongoing process that inevitably produces grievances.

To promote national healing, President Hassan said her administration had taken steps to expand political inclusion, including the creation of a Ministry of Youth within the President’s Office to increase young people’s participation in governance . She also confirmed the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry and reiterated plans to form a truth and reconciliation commission as part of a broader constitutional reform process.

On the economy , President Hassan told diplomats that Tanzania remains among Africa’s fastest-growing economies, with GDP growth close to six percent and inflation contained at about 3.3 percent. She said the country’s public debt remains sustainable.

Looking ahead, the president outlined Tanzania’s 2026 foreign policy priorities, including a shift from aid dependence toward strategic investment, particularly in healthcare. She invited international partners to engage in medical diplomacy and support Tanzania’s ambition to become a regional hub for specialised healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

The prosecution of DJ Toxxyk has been postponed , drawing public attention alongside Rwanda’s broader move to tighten traffic regulations. Authorities are enforcing stricter road safety measures, signalling a firmer stance on compliance and accountability as part of wider efforts to improve public safety and order on the country’s roads.

Drivers with foreign licences face potential loss of merit points under new system

Rwanda has announced that drivers using foreign licences could lose merit points under a newly enforced traffic management system. The measure is intended to ensure fairness and consistency across all road users, regardless of licence origin, while strengthening enforcement mechanisms and promoting responsible driving behaviour nationwide.

United States ambassador bids farewell as Kagame hosts outgoing envoy

The outgoing United States ambassador to Rwanda has formally bid farewell to the country’s foreign minister, with President Paul Kagame hosting Ambassador Eric Kneedler as part of the departure process. The meetings highlight ongoing diplomatic engagement between Rwanda and the US, even as leadership transitions take place within the diplomatic corps.

Rwanda says de-escalation with Burundi is complicated by rhetoric and troop presence in Congo

Rwanda has stated that efforts to de-escalate tensions with Burundi are being hindered by hostile rhetoric and the continued presence of troops in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The situation underscores the fragility of regional security dynamics and the challenges facing diplomatic efforts to stabilise the Great Lakes region.

Rwanda moves to support Louise Mushikiwabo for a third term at the Francophonie

Rwanda has confirmed its intention to support and re-nominate Louise Mushikiwabo for a third term as Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. The decision reflects Kigali’s commitment to maintaining influence within international multilateral institutions and backing continuity in Francophonie leadership.

This is the reality of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS. In 2025, the bloc turned 50 years old. Instead of celebrating unity and progress, it faced its most serious crisis of relevance since its founding.

This moment of doubt comes at a time when West Africa needs regional coordination more than ever. Security threats are multiplying, trade remains fragmented, mobility is expensive, and democratic institutions are fragile. As ECOWAS enters its sixth decade, fundamental questions are being asked openly. Can it still enforce democratic norms? Does it still carry economic weight? And can it survive in its current form?

Paper tiger

On paper, ECOWAS is formidable. It brings together 15 member states, represents more than 440 million people, and has a combined GDP of roughly 600 billion US dollars. That makes it one of the largest regional blocs in the Global South.

In practice, integration remains shallow. Trade between ECOWAS countries still accounts for less than 20 percent of their total trade. In more integrated regions such as the European Union, internal trade exceeds 60 percent. The comparison highlights a central weakness. ECOWAS has scale, but it lacks cohesion.

That weakness became impossible to ignore in 2025, when Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger formally withdrew from the bloc. Together, these Sahelian states represent around 70 million people and nearly 17 percent of ECOWAS landmass. While they contribute less than 5 percent of total GDP, their strategic and security importance is enormous.

Their departure followed years of tension after military coups, sanctions, and repeated threats of intervention. When ECOWAS failed to act militarily after the coup in Niger, it exposed a hard truth. The bloc did not have the political consensus or operational capacity to enforce its strongest decisions.

Empty threats

The crisis of democratic enforcement did not stop there. Later in the year, disputed elections in Guinea-Bissau once again demonstrated how fragile political institutions remain in the region. The military intervened, and ECOWAS responded with condemnation, suspension, and the threat of sanctions.

This has become a familiar pattern. Since 2020, sanctions alone have rarely reversed coups. More often, they have hardened military rule and eroded ECOWAS authority. Each repetition weakens the credibility of the bloc’s commitment to democracy.

The elusive Eco

Economically, ECOWAS continues to pursue one of its oldest ambitions: a single currency. The Eco was first proposed more than 20 years ago and is now tentatively scheduled for 2027 after missing multiple deadlines.

The obstacles are structural. Nigeria alone accounts for more than 60 percent of ECOWAS GDP, while many smaller economies struggle with inflation, debt distress, and fiscal instability. Without real convergence on economic fundamentals, the Eco remains a symbolic project rather than a functional one.

These challenges are made more acute by a fragmenting global economy and shrinking foreign assistance from traditional partners in Europe and the United States . Regional self-reliance is becoming more important just as ECOWAS capacity is being questioned.

Tax-free flying

Yet amid the uncertainty, there is a reason for cautious optimism as 2026 begins.

From January, air travel across ECOWAS member states is set to become tax-free, with sharp reductions in passenger and security charges. This is one of the bloc’s most tangible policy wins in years.

The reform matters because West Africa has some of the highest intra-regional airfares in the world. It is often cheaper to fly to Europe than to a neighbouring country. If fully implemented, the changes could reduce fares by 20 to 40 percent, benefiting traders, students, tourists, and families while advancing free movement in a practical way.

Connectivity has long been neglected in African economic policy, despite its importance for growth. People want to travel, and people travelling drives commerce. Currently, international departure taxes in Africa average around $68 per trip, with West Africa the most expensive subregion. Short flights of just a few hundred kilometres can cost hundreds of dollars.

This reform requires coordination and execution more than large financial outlays. If governments create the right conditions, the private sector can step in. For ECOWAS, this could be a rare example of delivery matching ambition.

A chance for redemption

As 2025 ends, ECOWAS looks like this: large in population, fragmented in politics, slow in economic integration, weak in enforcing democracy, but still capable of delivering reforms that people can feel in their daily lives.

At 50, ECOWAS is no longer just a regional institution. It is a test case for whether African multilateralism can adapt to a changing political reality. The question now is whether the future of regional cooperation will be driven by declarations, or defined by delivery.

The answer will shape not just ECOWAS, but the credibility of regional integration across the Global South in the years ahead.

Click here to watch our previous episodes

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

ISSN 2978-4891

This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can  contact us  here.

Guatemala is seeing a shift in organised crime dynamics as Mexican cartels, notably Sinaloa and Jalisco Nueva Generación and a newer Cartel Chiapas–Guatemala faction expand influence, challenging old tacit “peace” arrangements and escalating violent territorial disputes. Analysts note that Guatemala is no longer just a transit zone for narcotics but a space of active control and conflict, marked by armed clashes, murders and threats to security forces. Recent incidents in Huehuetenango and Sololá highlight this pattern of violence spreading from the Mexico–Guatemala frontier into the interior of the country.

PNC says report blaming army was written under threats

The National Civil Police (PNC) has disputed an earlier police report that accused the Guatemalan Army of attacking civilians and a patrol in Nahualá, Sololá during recent clashes. The PNC claims the original report was drafted under coercion, threats and extreme violence by armed groups, and insists that a revised, verifiable account was later submitted to prosecutors. Authorities maintain that the verified version confirms engagements with illegal armed actors and justifies the state of prevention in the area. The violence forms part of a broader security crisis in western Guatemala, where long-running territorial disputes between Nahualá and Santa Catarina Ixtahuacán have escalated into armed attacks on police and military positions. The unrest prompted the government to deploy security forces and impose temporary restrictions on movement and public gatherings.

Debate intensifies over Guatemala’s 2026 minimum wage increase

Guatemalan officials have approved an increase in the minimum wage for 2026, with differentiated hikes across sectors, 7.5% for non-agricultural work, 5.5% in agriculture and 4% in export and maquila sectors, effective 1 January. While the government says the adjustments align with technical criteria and economic needs, some analysts argue the rise exceeds what economic indicators justify and could challenge business formalisation. Business groups have called for more technical discussion on wage policy amid divided reactions across sectors.

Guatemala expels alleged Mara 18 gang member to El Salvador

Guatemalan authorities located and expelled Adilson Alfonso “Fatboy” Gómez, a 39-year-old alleged member of the Mara 18 gang wanted in El Salvador with multiple arrest orders. The operation, involving investigators from the DIPANDA unit, reflects continued efforts to remove transnational gang figures hiding in Guatemala. Gómez was delivered to Salvadoran authorities after being found in Guatemala City’s Zone 7, and his expulsion underscores ongoing regional cooperation against organised gang activity.

US issues travel warning over violence in Sololá region

The United States Embassy in Guatemala has issued a travel advisory urging US citizens to avoid the municipalities of Nahualá and Santa Catarina Ixtahuacán in Sololá due to deteriorating security following violent clashes. The alert follows the Guatemalan government ’s 15-day state of prevention declaration in response to recent armed confrontations that killed and wounded civilians and security forces. The embassy’s warning emphasises heightened risks for travellers in and around the conflict area.

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.

China currently maintains the world’s largest active-duty military, with more than 2 million personnel, compared with India’s approximately 1.45 million.

However, analysts at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) note that raw troop numbers tell only part of the story. China has increasingly emphasised modernisation, restructuring its forces to prioritise mobility, joint operations, and advanced technology rather than sheer manpower.

Air power remains one of the clearest areas of divergence. China operates more than 6,000 aircraft and helicopters, giving it a significant advantage over India’s fleet of just under 4,000. This gap has widened as Beijing invests heavily in fifth-generation fighter jets such as the J-20, long-range bombers, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

India, however, slightly exceeds China in the number of tanks and armoured combat vehicles, reflecting its strategic focus on defending long land borders, particularly along the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC). Since deadly clashes in 2020, both countries have reinforced troop deployments, infrastructure, and heavy equipment in high-altitude regions, underscoring how unresolved border disputes continue to shape military planning.

China, however, maintains a clear advantage in artillery and naval power. With more than 7,000 artillery systems, including long-range rocket launchers, Beijing has developed significant firepower designed for rapid escalation scenarios.

At sea, China’s navy has become the largest in the world by number of vessels, surpassing 370 ships. This expansion includes aircraft carriers, advanced destroyers, and a growing fleet of submarines, enabling China to project power well beyond its coastline.

India’s navy, while smaller, plays a strategically vital role. Positioned along major global shipping lanes, it serves as a key stabilising force in the Indian Ocean, where a significant share of global trade and energy supplies passes each year.

India’s maritime posture has gained additional importance as China increases its naval presence in the region, prompting closer cooperation between India and partners such as the United States, Japan, and Australia through frameworks like the Quad.

These military comparisons come amid broader shifts in global defence priorities. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute reports that China and India rank among the world’s top military spenders, with budgets increasingly directed toward missiles, cyber capabilities, space systems, and artificial intelligence rather than traditional force expansion.

The visit places Chaves among a limited group of international officials who have previously entered CECOT, including US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and former Argentine Security Minister Patricia Bullrich. The prison, widely associated with El Salvador’s crackdown on organised crime, has become a focal point for regional security discussions.

Chaves’ tour concluded a visit that began on Thursday and included meetings with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele. During the trip, both leaders signed the Shield of the Americas Alliance , an agreement designed to strengthen cooperation against organised crime and enhance national security efforts between the two countries.

CECOT is the largest prison in Latin America , built to house up to 40,000 inmates and currently holding around 15,000 people accused of links to the Mara Salvatrucha and Barrio 18 gangs. In August, Chaves announced plans to construct a 5,000-inmate prison in Costa Rica inspired by El Salvador’s model, a project scheduled for completion in 2026 but which has yet to begin construction.

Laurent Saint-Cyr, President of the Haitian Presidential Transitional Council (PTC), welcomed the officers during an official ceremony, stating that the new arrivals will work alongside Haiti’s National Police and the Armed Forces to help secure the planned 2026 elections . “Haiti needs this support. The restoration of security is an imperative to allow the holding of elections,” he said, pledging visible results for the population.

The arrival of the new contingent coincided with the departure of another group of 100 Kenyan officers who completed their mission and returned home. Saint-Cyr thanked them for their service, expressing “eternal gratitude” on behalf of the nation and wishing them a safe return to their families.

The reinforcements come as Haiti awaits the full deployment of the Gang Repression Force (GRF), which is expected to reach 5,500 personnel. According to the UN, the GRF is intended to significantly weaken gang control and improve living conditions within a year of its full mobilisation.

The scale of the challenge remains immense. In 2024 alone, gang violence in Haiti reportedly left at least 5,600 people dead, more than 2,200 injured, 1,494 kidnapped, and over one million internally displaced. Between April and June 2025, authorities recorded a further 1,520 killings and more than 600 injuries, underscoring the country’s ongoing security emergency.

Pope Leo XIV’s first international trip took him to Turkey, where he met President Erdoğan and held key religious and diplomatic meetings. The visit highlighted shared calls for peace amid global crises and underscored Türkiye’s historic role as a bridge between cultures. The Pope also visited İznik, reflecting the country’s deep Christian heritage and recent steps toward greater religious pluralism.

Interior ministry probes security lapse after Barzani’s Cizre visit

Türkiye’s Interior Ministry has launched an investigation into security arrangements during former KRG President Mesud Barzani’s recent visit to Şırnak, after images of his guards carrying long-barreled weapons in military-style uniforms sparked public criticism. Barzani, now a political party leader with no official government role, visited Cizre on Nov. 29 for the Melaye Ciziri Symposium. Footage of his armed detail drew swift backlash and raised protocol concerns. AK Party spokesman Ömer Çelik called the images “unpleasant” during a Habertürk interview and confirmed a formal inquiry, noting that Türkiye is fully capable of providing security for visiting figures.

Turkey's TIKA restores historic Ottoman-era cemetery in Damascus

Turkey has completed the restoration of the historic Ottoman-era cemetery in the courtyard of the Sheikh Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi Mosque in Damascus, repairing decades of damage and neglect, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) announced Monday. The cemetery, home to the graves of Ottoman statesmen and their families, had deteriorated due to wear, deliberate destruction, and lack of upkeep, leaving it in a state seen as inconsistent with the site’s spiritual and historical importance. With Syria reopening to visitors, the cemetery has again become a stop for official delegations and cultural tourists. TIKA said the first phase of restoration, removing debris, uncovering graves buried under concrete and soil, and reorganising the area, was completed in late August.

Turkey seeks permanent, fair solution to Russia-Ukraine War

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reaffirmed Turkey's push for a diplomatic, fair and lasting resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war during a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on Monday. At a joint news conference in Istanbul, Erdoğan said they reviewed regional and global developments, including the Middle East and Ukraine, and praised Hungary’s role in the Organisation of Turkic States, noting the historic informal summit held in Budapest in May. He emphasised that Turkey has worked from the start of the conflict to advance a just peace, adding, “No one wins a war, and no one loses from a just peace.”

Parliament speaker says peace bid enters 'riskiest phase'

Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş says Turkey's latest peace initiative has entered its “most risky phase” after the PKK announced it would lay down arms, warning that the process must move forward without delays. Speaking to Milliyet, he said it must be confirmed that the PKK has disarmed, ended its activities, and will integrate with the new administration in Syria, noting the YPG’s March agreement to join Syria’s national army. Kurtulmuş said the process has progressed well but stressed that the next stage is the most delicate, urging the group to fulfil its promises without hesitation. Under the government’s “terror-free Turkey” plan, the PKK declared a ceasefire, began disarming, and said in late October that it had withdrawn from Turkish territory.

New data from World’s Top Exports shows that Spain and Mexico dominate the global pumpkin market in 2024, together accounting for more than 64% of worldwide pumpkin exports.

With international demand rising for year-round cooking, health foods, and processed pumpkin products, the industry has become more important to farmers and exporters across Europe, North America, Africa, and Oceania.

According to the 2024 export rankings, Spain leads the world with 32.8% of global pumpkin exports, valued at about $574 million. Mexico follows closely with 32%, earning $559 million.

The large market share held by both countries reflects their strong agricultural infrastructure, export-oriented farming, and access to major global markets.

The rest of the top exporters include:

How global events are shaping the pumpkin market

Climate change is shifting growing seasons

Farmers across Europe and North America are adjusting planting cycles due to unpredictable rainfall, heat waves, and changing soil conditions. Some regions in Spain and Mexico have benefited from longer warm seasons, allowing for stronger yields.

Food security continues to be a global priority

With conflicts disrupting trade routes , such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, countries are looking toward more stable and diverse agricultural suppliers. Pumpkins, being versatile and widely cultivated, fit into this wider push to secure reliable food imports.

Rising global celebrations and food trends

Pumpkin has become more than a seasonal item . From soups and baked goods to the globally popular “pumpkin spice” trend, food producers are buying more pumpkin for processing and export. This helps keep demand strong throughout the year.

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.

Security officials say this context has strengthened the need for heightened vigilance.

Although the broad outline of Putin’s program has been finalized, Indian authorities have withheld details of his accommodation and precise movement routes due to strict security protocols. Officials say only a small circle within the government has access to the full plan.

Delhi Police have deployed top-ranking officers to supervise the operation, covering traffic control, movement restrictions, and the sanitization of areas that Putin may pass through. Entire stretches of roads, government districts, and diplomatic zones are expected to undergo multiple security sweeps.

The capital will also introduce temporary traffic diversions, restricted zones and pedestrian controls around high-security areas. Officials said advisories will be issued in advance to minimize disruptions for residents, although delays and detours are still expected.

More than 50 members of Russia’s advance security and protocol teams are arriving ahead of the visit. They will inspect all proposed routes, potential stopover points, and venues earmarked for bilateral talks and ceremonial engagements. 

Indian officials say the Russian side is conducting “exceptionally detailed” checks.

During the visit, Delhi will come under a multi-layered security ring involving Delhi Police, central intelligence agencies and Putin’s elite personal security detail. The deployment includes SWAT teams, anti-terror units, bomb disposal squads and quick-reaction teams stationed across strategic points in the city.

In addition, authorities will employ extensive surveillance measures, including drone monitoring, expanded CCTV coverage and advanced technical intelligence systems to detect potential threats. Special airspace restrictions are also likely to be implemented while the Russian president is in the capital.

Security officials say the scale of preparations reflects both protocol and caution. “This is a high-stakes visit, and nothing is being left to chance,” a police officer said. “The city will effectively be under a security lockdown as long as President Putin is here.”

In a session of the National Citizen Security Council, José Jerí rejected any responsibility for the current rise in criminality, instead placing the blame on previous government s and several former Interior Ministers. He argued that structural failures inherited from past administrations created today’s security crisis. Jerí insisted that his government is working to reverse this deterioration and promised that the current administration will leave a meaningful “legacy” in the field of citizen security. He reiterated that current challenges stem from long-standing institutional weaknesses rather than recent decisions.

Presidential candidate Rafael Belaúnde survives attack on his vehicle

Rafael Belaúnde, presidential candidate for Libertad Popular, was wounded when gunmen fired at his vehicle in Cerro Azul, leaving the car with multiple bullet impacts. Despite the severity of the attack, Belaúnde was not seriously injured and has begun formal procedures by filing a police report. The incident has fuelled concern about political violence during an already contentious pre-electoral period. The attack occurs as Peru moves towards the 2026 elections, heightening fears over the safety of candidates and the broader democratic environment.

Peru calls for calm over disputed Peru-Chile border territory

Amid rising public debate over the precise definition of the Peru–Chile border, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a formal statement clarifying the government’s position on territorial limits. The statement seeks to ease tensions and reinforce Peru’s official interpretation amid renewed scrutiny of the boundary line. Authorities emphasise that border issues require responsible handling to protect diplomatic stability. The episode highlights the sensitivity of territorial matters in the relationship between the two neighbouring countries.

Landslide in Iparia leaves at least 12 dead, dozens missing

A major landslide struck the fluvial port of Iparia in the Ucayali region, causing a section of the riverbank to collapse and dragging two boats underwater. At least 12 people, including children, were confirmed dead, while dozens more — among them Indigenous residents, medical workers and teachers — remain missing. The disaster has prompted urgent rescue efforts as authorities and families await updates. The scale of the incident has shocked local communities and intensified calls for improved disaster-risk prevention in riverine areas.

Agrarian exports surge 212 %

Peru’s agrarian exports expanded by an estimated 212% over the past nine months, reaching nearly US$9.8 billion, according to industry data. This growth is largely attributed to strong international demand for high-value products such as avocados, blueberries, cocoa and fresh grapes. The increase reflects sustained momentum in the country’s agricultural sector despite broader economic uncertainty. Analysts view the performance as a sign of renewed dynamism, reinforcing the importance of agro-exports in Peru’s external trade.

Somalia’s political landscape is intensifying ahead of the upcoming Banadir Regional Local Council elections, with the Madalsan Political Association taking its campaign directly to communities in Mogadishu. During a major rally in the Yakshid district, party officials promised to prioritise improvements in healthcare, education and sanitation — three issues repeatedly raised by residents. The rally marks a broader surge of political activity across the capital as competing groups attempt to consolidate support before the vote.

East African Legislative Assembly

In a significant legal development, the East African Court of Justice has reinstated Somalia’s nine delegates to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). Their suspension earlier this year had sparked controversy after critics accused the Somali government of engineering a non-transparent selection process. The court ruling brings an end to months of uncertainty and allows the delegates to resume their duties at the regional parliament.

Militant groups

A new report by the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies (ACSS) has raised alarms about Somalia’s deteriorating security environment, warning that Al-Shabaab is making renewed advances toward Mogadishu. Analysts argue that the country’s federal structure is weakening due to internal divisions, slow reforms and inconsistent military coordination. These vulnerabilities, the report says, are enabling the militant group to reclaim territory and expand its influence across central and southern Somalia.

Internal political strife

A separate assessment paints an even more dire picture, warning that Al-Shabaab’s seizure of Mogadishu could be “only a matter of time” if current trends continue. Citing the federal government’s internal political strife, stalled stabilisation efforts and persistent insurgent attacks, experts argue that the group’s momentum is growing faster than the state’s ability to counter it. The report has reignited debate over Somalia’s political cohesion and the future of its national security strategy.

Millions face hunger

Somalia has declared a national drought emergency after months of failed rains. The drought has devastated crops and livestock, leaving many communities without food or water. According to humanitarian agencies, malnutrition rates are rising, especially among children, and millions now face urgent needs. The crisis is particularly severe in Puntland, Somaliland and central Somalia. Former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has issued a public plea, calling on Somalis at home and abroad to mobilize support for affected families as international aid continues to shrink.

Speaking at the Santa Rosa immigration complex, Jeri said Peru’s borders have “long been known for their vulnerabilities” and stressed that the situation requires “serious reflection” as a matter of state policy . He explained that the government will pursue a coordinated, multisector response to strengthen security across border provinces, including those adjacent to Chile.

Jeri said the first step will be the declaration of a state of emergency, allowing the Army to support the National Police in securing border areas and preventing irregular activities “by individuals of other nationalities who may enter with different intentions.”

He also emphasised that only travellers with proper documentation will be allowed to enter, adding that tightening border controls is essential to ongoing efforts to tackle crime. Preventing people from entering “irregularly,” he said, is key to addressing the country’s broader security challenges.

The announcement comes shortly after Chilean presidential candidate Jose Kast visited the Chile–Peru border, where he pledged to expel Venezuelan migrants from Chile if elected. It also follows a period in which Peru has adopted increasingly forceful measures in response to rising crime rates nationwide.

According to official reports, 27 inmates were found hanged in their cells, apparently asphyxiated in one of the most chilling episodes of prison violence in the country. The prison oversight body (SNAI) stated that the deaths are being thoroughly investigated. Earlier that day, four prisoners died and more than 40 were injured during a riot, in an incident attributed to the reorganisation of inmates.

Analysts point to a broader pattern of instability in Ecuador’s detention system. Since 2021, more than 500 inmates have died in comparable clashes, often linked to gang rivalries and systemic overcrowding in prisons. The El Oro facility is reported to be overfilled, and internal power struggles among criminal organisations such as Los Lobos and Sao Box continue to drive violence.

The social organisations demanding accountability are calling for an immediate declaration of a national prison emergency, warning that without urgent intervention, such episodes will continue to put inmates’ fundamental rights at risk.

The massacre has not only fuelled domestic criticism but also attracted international attention. Observers warn that the crisis highlights serious governance failures and underscores the need for Ecuador to cooperate with global partners to reform its penal system.

Recent protests in France, rising cost-of-living pressures, and renewed security concerns across the UK have influenced how residents perceive their neighbourhoods after dark. At the same time, ongoing instability from the Russia–Ukraine war continues to reshape how Eastern Europeans think about safety in their own communities.

The map’s findings closely mirror Gallup's 2025 Global Safety Report , which remains the leading global benchmark for how safe people feel in their daily lives.

According to Gallup, countries like Norway (91%), Denmark (89%) and Kosovo (89%) rank among Europe's safest.

On the contrary, Ukraine and Italy have lower perceived safety levels. This also mirrors Gallup’s data, which shows a noticeable decline in residents’ confidence in local security and law enforcement.

Central and Eastern Europe present a more mixed picture. Countries such as Poland, Czechia, and Slovakia fall into the “moderately safe” range, while parts of the Balkans appear safer than many Western European countries.

Notably, the map above depicting Ukraine and Russia reflects the grim reality of the ongoing conflict. Security perceptions in Ukraine have dramatically shifted since the 2022 invasion , and Gallup data confirms a significant decline in residents’ confidence in local security forces.

Russia, though coloured yellow or red in many public safety maps, remains a complicated case due to the restricted flow of independent data and state influence on survey respondents.

Attached is a discussion with Gallup's Global Research Director, Dan Foy, about the safety report.

Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies is currently debating a controversial anti-gang bill that has ignited sharp political tensions across the country. The proposed legislation, which aims to strengthen criminal penalties and enhance the government’s ability to dismantle organised crime networks, has drawn criticism from the Federal Police and several government officials. Detractors argue that the bill could open the door to misuse of authority and may undermine civil rights protections. At the same time, supporters claim it is essential to address the growing threat of gang-related violence in major cities. The debate reflects the delicate balance between bolstering public safety and safeguarding democratic freedoms.

Brazil’s new crime commission: A fight for control and credibility

Brazil’s Senate has launched a Parliamentary Inquiry Commission to investigate organised crime. However, this move has not come without controversy. Political analysts and opposition figures have raised concerns about the inquiry's independence, suggesting that political manoeuvring could compromise its integrity. The commission, intended to expose corruption and strengthen national security , risks becoming another political battleground where competing factions vie for influence. Questions about transparency and impartiality are now shaping public opinion, with critics urging reforms to ensure that accountability, not politics, remains at the heart of the investigation.

Criminal crisis unites right, signalling ‘post-Bolsonaro’ era

A deadly police operation in Rio de Janeiro has thrust Brazil’s public security policies back into the national spotlight and stirred a major political realignment. The crisis has united opposition figures on the right, many of whom were previously divided under the influence of former President Jair Bolsonaro. Analysts say this moment may mark the beginning of a “post-Bolsonaro” era , as right-wing leaders increasingly seek to redefine their identity around law and order rather than personality-driven politics. The renewed focus on policing and crime control underscores how security has become one of the defining issues in Brazil’s shifting political landscape

Lula secures ally to lead Senate inquiry into organised crime

In a strategic political move, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s government has successfully secured leadership of a Senate inquiry into organised crime. The decision has sparked debate over potential political interference in what is meant to be an impartial investigation. Supporters of the government argue that Lula’s allies can ensure more effective oversight and results-oriented action. However, opposition groups and civil society watchdogs warn that this concentration of control risks undermining the inquiry's credibility. The development reflects ongoing tensions between executive authority and institutional independence, as Brazil navigates complex challenges at the intersection of politics, crime, and governance .

These developments carry implications beyond Ecuador’s borders. With transnational criminal organisations increasingly exploiting regional prison systems, the transfer signals a tougher posture toward organised crime. The move also echoes a broader trend in Latin America of governments adopting stricter security measures in response to systemic incarceration crises.

At the same time, human rights observers warn of the risks of ultra-secure prisons becoming instruments of repression rather than rehabilitation. The shift raises questions about oversight, the rights of detainees, and the balance between security and State accountability—issues that resonate globally amid debates on mass imprisonment, prison conditions and criminal justice reform.

Community members gathered in the streets holding banners and chanting against Rio’s governor, Claudio Castro, whom they accused of ordering excessive violence . Witnesses say several victims had already surrendered before being shot. “We are not defending criminals, we are defending justice,” said resident Claudia Vitalino. “Police officers do not have the power to kill people, they need to learn that,” she told Viory.

Others demanded transparency from the authorities, calling for the release of autopsy reports and police camera footage. “Where is the evidence to say that all those bodies lying in the street were really criminals?” asked resident Reis. “The police are made to protect only the rights of the bourgeoisie, not us.”

Authorities have yet to release a full report on the operation or confirm the number of deaths.

After years of gradual decline in Africa in general, the same is now occurring in South Africa, specifically -- Western-style democracy seems to be losing its lure. The number of citizens supporting military rule has surpassed those opposing it.

Democracy: losing its allure in South Africa?

South Africans were asked the question: Is democracy the best form of government? Their response was surprising – at least to the West. Less than 50 percent said they preferred democracy to any other form. The results of the survey illustrate a growing dissatisfaction with democracy as the preferred form of government across the African continent.

The proportion of citizens supporting military rule in the country has surpassed those opposing it. For the first time in more than two decades – more support the military (rather than elected civilians) in assuming leadership of the country. 

Most South Africans, the report reveals, are dissatisfied with democracy as a form of political system. “…seven in 10 South Africans are dissatisfied with the way democracy functions in the country.”

The negative responses toward democracy are high among the middle-aged population, but even more so among the unemployed and economically disadvantaged. The common consensus within these groups was their perception that the politicians were ignoring their concerns.

Among the issues noted of concern to the respondents listed unemployment as the most serious – followed by crime, security, water, infrastructure, and corruption. The sense from the findings indicates that these seemingly intractable issues leave the population, generally, in a state of frustration. 

Not surprisingly, the report reflects concerns with the new South African administration. While 40 percent of the population believes the Government of National Unity (GNU) is effective, another 40 percent disagrees, feeling it is less than effective in solving the country’s most pressing problems.

Political analyst Stephen Friedman  described the trend as part of a broader global phenomenon. “Around the world, there is a great deal of dissatisfaction with democracy,” he explained. “It’s not that people have stopped believing in democratic values; it’s that the kind of democracy they experience no longer meets their needs.”

Friedman noted that many South Africans feel disconnected from political decision-making, with power concentrated in the hands of a few elites. “The problem with the model of democracy that has been sold to us for the past 30 years is that citizens have very little control over anything,” he said.

The growing openness to military rule -- a system once unthinkable in South Africa’s democratic landscape -- should serve as a wake-up call for leaders, and Western politicians in particular. It reflects not only a loss of confidence in political institutions but also a deep yearning for stability and effective governance.

Friedman added that voter apathy is another sign of alienation. “It’s no surprise that many South Africans are choosing not to vote,” he said. “When citizens feel their voices don’t matter, disengagement becomes inevitable.”

Democracy’s decline in Africa in general

Yet, this is neither a new phenomenon nor one limited to South Africa. According to the latest edition of the Afrobarometer report (2024), titled “African Insights: Democracy at risk – People’s perspective,” more than half of Africans (53% across 39 countries) are willing to accept a military takeover if elected leaders abuse power for their own ends.

“On average across 39 countries, support for democracy remains robust: Two-thirds (66%) of Africans say they prefer democracy to any other system of government, and large majorities reject one-man rule (80%), one-party rule (78%), and military rule (66%),” the report stated.

It noted that, “across 30 countries surveyed consistently over the past decade, support for democracy has declined by 7 percentage points, including by 29 points in South Africa and 23 points in Mali. Opposition to military rule has weakened by 11 points.

Political analyst Siyabonga Ntombela concurred with the 2024 report’s findings. The trend is not unique to South Africa. “This is happening continentally. There are a number of countries that are following Ibrahim Traore of Burkina Faso’s style of leadership. These countries appear to benefit more under the military rule than they have under years of democracy,” he said.

Ntombela explained that local politics also plays a role in this shift. “The majority of ANC faction parties (EFF and MKP) are predicated on military ideals,” he added. “They venerate leaders such as Thomas Sankara, Che Guevara, Fidel Castro and others. The material conditions have remained unchanged for the poor. Therefore, such an alternative rule promises hope for the downtrodden of the country.”

And this trend is also found among Africa’s youth . Younger Africans are more accepting of military rule, according to the Afrobarometer survey. Fifty-six percent accept a military takeover when civilian leaders abuse power. Sixty percent of youth are dissatisfied with the functionality of democracy in their respective countries. And forty percent believe their elected leaders are corrupt.

Ntombela warns that a rise in support for military-style rule could come with grave consequences. “With military rule, violence is inevitable. People like Frantz Fanon claim that violence is a necessary condition to decolonise and usher in true freedom,” he said

Across Africa, democracy is being tested – by rising authoritarianism and military coups as well as a growing disconnect between citizens and the institutions meant to represent them.

The latest flagship assessments noted above deliver a powerful warning. Over 60 percent of Africans are dissatisfied with how democracy works in their countries. Support for democracy, generally, remains not insubstantial, but belief in its effectiveness is fading, especially when citizens feel excluded from meaningful participation in decisions that affect them.

To state it succinctly: the crisis of participation results from people being absent from the room when decisions that affect them are made, and often that room is in London, Paris or Washington D.C.

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

Dr. Wolf is director of The Fulcrum Institute, a new organisation of current and former scholars, which engages in research and commentary, focusing on political and cultural issues on both sides of the Atlantic. Our interest is in American foreign policy as it relates to the economic and foreign policies of the NATO countries, the SCO, the BRICS+ nation-states and the Middle East.

After service in the USAF (Lt.Col.-Intel) Dr. Wolf obtained a PhD-philosophy (University of Wales), MA-philosophy (University of S. Africa), MTh-philosophical theology (Texas Christian University-Brite Div.). He taught philosophy, humanities and theology in the US and S. Africa before retiring from university.

With schools and universities shut down, frustration is spreading across the country. Businesses are struggling, and many people are finding it harder to move around or access basic services.

Outside the capital, things are even worse. Clashes between Malian forces and terrorist groups in rural and border areas have forced people from their homes, cut off supply routes, and made it difficult for aid to reach those in need.

The situation has grown so unstable that the United States has issued an urgent security alert, telling all American citizens to leave Mali immediately.

On October 28, the U.S. Embassy in Bamako issued a security alert that reflects the growing danger on the ground. The message urges Americans to leave the country as soon as possible, using commercial flights while they are still available. Roads leading out of Mali are considered too dangerous, with frequent attacks and armed ambushes reported along major highways.

For those who choose to stay, the Embassy advises preparing for emergencies, stocking up on supplies, keeping communication devices ready, and staying out of public view. It also warns that U.S. officials have limited ability to help citizens outside the capital because of the ongoing conflict and travel risks.

“The international airport in Bamako remains open and flights are available,” the alert states. “U.S. citizens should depart using commercial aviation, as overland routes to neighbouring countries may not be safe for travel.”