International

Scholars at Risk Reports Alarming Trend in U.S. University Pressures

Scholars at Risk Reports Alarming Trend in U.S. University Pressures

A new “Free to Think” report by Scholars at Risk (SAR) documents 40 attacks on academic freedom in the first half of 2025 across U.S. institutions. These incidents range from revocation of research funding and attempts to deport foreign scholars, to policy-driven restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. SAR says this is an “unprecedented in history” wave of attacks by a global education leader. The report notes a sharp rise from 80 documented pressure cases in the previous year, indicating acceleration of institutional constraints and political interference in academia. U.S. and international universities have expressed concern, arguing such trends…
Read More
Global Economy Faces Heightened Risk of Shocks

Global Economy Faces Heightened Risk of Shocks

Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF, issued a stark warning that economic instability may become a sustained state of affairs. While global growth is projected at 3% for 2025, she cautioned that markets may be hiding deeper vulnerabilities. Key risks include elevated U.S. deficits, overvaluation in asset prices, rising gold as a safe haven, and geopolitical tension. Georgieva urged major economies to enact careful policies: the U.S. should address its fiscal trajectory, China should stimulate domestic demand, and Europe should strengthen integration through a unified economic “tsar.” She also flagged social unrest among younger populations—seen across cities from Lima…
Read More
English vs Bangladesh: England Wins Women’s Cricket World Cup Match

English vs Bangladesh: England Wins Women’s Cricket World Cup Match

In a tense Women’s Cricket World Cup match, England edged Bangladesh by four wickets. Bangladesh batted first and scored 178, bolstered by a gritty 60 from Sobhana Mostary and a late flourish from Rabeya Khan, who hit 43 not out. England struggled early, falling to 103 for 6, but captain Heather Knight steadied the innings with a calm 79 not out, aided by a late 27-run stand with Charlie Dean. Ecclestone’s spin attack (3 wickets) led England’s bowling effort, supported by Smith, Dean, and Capsey. The victory moves England to the top of the tournament standings with 4 points and…
Read More
First Arab in Line to Lead UNESCO After US Withdrawal

First Arab in Line to Lead UNESCO After US Withdrawal

The UNESCO Executive Board has nominated Khaled el-Anani, a former Egyptian tourism and antiquities minister, to become its next Director-General. If confirmed, he would be the first Arab to lead the organization. His nomination follows the U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO under previous leadership, raising concerns about funding gaps and institutional direction. El-Anani’s priorities include reinforcing cultural heritage protection, improving education in fragile contexts, and rebuilding ties with the U.S. and Western donors. For UNESCO and cultural diplomacy observers, the nomination reflects shifting global influence. For regional media, having an Arab head could strengthen representation of developing countries’ cultural agendas in…
Read More
Tibet Side Storms Threaten Lives During Peak Climbing Season

Tibet Side Storms Threaten Lives During Peak Climbing Season

A sudden blizzard on the Tibetan side of Mount Everest has trapped hundreds of climbers during peak trekking season. Heavy snow and near whiteout conditions hit just days after floods devastated parts of Nepal. According to media reports, at least 350 climbers were guided down to safety, though some remain awaiting extraction under dangerous conditions. Mountaineering groups and rescue teams are coordinating helicopter and ground rescues. On Nepal’s southern side, incessant rain has already claimed dozens of lives through flooding and landslides, complicating logistics for cross-border rescue efforts. For Himalayan tourism sectors, this dual disaster poses severe risks to safety…
Read More
Switzerland Commits CHF 64 Million to Fight AIDS, TB & Malaria

Switzerland Commits CHF 64 Million to Fight AIDS, TB & Malaria

Switzerland has pledged CHF 64 million to the 2026–2028 cycle of the Global Fund, demonstrating ongoing commitment to global health efforts. The contribution aims to support programs combating HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria in low-income countries. Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund, called Switzerland’s early commitment “a powerful show of solidarity,” emphasizing that sustained funding is vital to saving lives and strengthening health systems. With the Global Fund headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland’s contribution underscores its status as a hub for international cooperation. Donors and NGOs praised the move as essential to reaching vulnerable populations and advancing progress toward global…
Read More
Afghanistan Hit by Magnitude-4.9 Aftershock, Causing Damage and Casualties

Afghanistan Hit by Magnitude-4.9 Aftershock, Causing Damage and Casualties

A 4.9 magnitude aftershock struck eastern Afghanistan, injuring 15 people and causing property damage—including partial collapse of several homes and triggering rockslides in Darai Nur district. This tremor follows earlier quakes that left thousands dead and widespread destruction. Over 84,000 people are estimated to be affected by the ongoing seismic crisis, with many still living in temporary shelters. Humanitarian agencies warn that continued aftershocks hinder relief efforts and exacerbate health, food, and shelter shortages. Geologists say the region's unstable fault lines are contributing to repeated seismic events. The international community is being urged to step up support for displaced Afghans.
Read More
Nigeria Launches Satellite to Boost Internet Access

Nigeria Launches Satellite to Boost Internet Access

Nigeria has successfully launched a communications satellite designed to expand broadband internet across Africa. The project, carried out in partnership with Chinese engineers, will provide high-speed internet to rural and underserved regions. Officials believe the satellite will reduce costs for businesses and support digital learning in schools. Experts say this could position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s growing digital economy. President Bola Tinubu hailed the launch as a “historic step” toward technological independence.
Read More
Kenya Opens Africa’s Largest Tech Innovation Hub

Kenya Opens Africa’s Largest Tech Innovation Hub

Kenya has inaugurated Africa’s largest tech hub, “Silicon Savannah Campus,” designed to host startups, multinational firms, and research institutions. The hub includes AI research labs, co-working spaces, and a digital training center aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs. Kenyan President William Ruto said the project will make Nairobi a global technology destination. International investors, including firms from the US and Europe, have pledged support. Experts say the development could boost Africa’s position in the global digital economy, especially as demand for fintech and AI solutions grows rapidly.
Read More
 PM Modi to Bill Gates: Let’s Keep Working Together for a Better, Sustainable Future

 PM Modi to Bill Gates: Let’s Keep Working Together for a Better, Sustainable Future

Thank you for your kind greetings, Bill Gates. "India looks forward to collaborating to create a sustainable and promising future for future generations," Prime Minister Modi said. As Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates wished PM Modi a happy 75th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted on Thursday with thanks, emphasizing the necessity of working together to create a sustainable future for future generations. "Thank you for your nice greeting, @BillGates. India looks forward to collaborating to create a sustainable and prosperous future for future generations," PM Modi wrote in a post on X. In his greeting on Wednesday, Gates…
Read More