South Korea president apologises for abusive foreign adoption scheme

South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung has issued a heartfelt apology for the country's poorly managed adoption program from the 1970s and 1980s, which resulted in tens of thousands of children being sent abroad. An inquiry revealed that many of these children were wrongfully taken, with some even being stolen from their biological parents. This apology marks a significant step towards acknowledging past injustices and could pave the way for healing and reconciliation for affected families.

Slovakia has taken a significant step backward in LGBTQ+ rights with a recent constitutional amendment that recognizes only male and female sexes, effectively making adoption nearly impossible for same-sex couples. This move has been labeled a 'dark day' by LGBTQ+ advocates, who argue it reflects a broader trend of diminishing human rights and rule of law in the country. The implications of this decision are profound, as it not only affects the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals but also signals a worrying shift in societal values.

In a significant ruling, a military court in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has sentenced former president Joseph Kabila to death in absentia for war crimes, treason, and crimes against humanity. This verdict not only highlights the serious allegations against Kabila but also raises concerns about the ongoing political tensions in the country. As Kabila has been a prominent figure in Congolese politics, this decision could have far-reaching implications for stability and governance in the region.

Madagascar's president has taken the drastic step of dissolving his government following violent protests led by youth that resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 22 individuals. This decision highlights the escalating tensions in the country and the urgent need for dialogue and reform to address the grievances of the youth, who are increasingly voicing their frustrations over social and economic issues.

In Madagascar, tensions have escalated as police resorted to firing tear gas to disperse protesters following the president's inability to address their grievances. The situation has turned dire, with the UN reporting 22 fatalities and over 100 injuries since the protests began. This unrest highlights the growing discontent among the populace and raises concerns about the government's response to civil unrest, making it a critical moment for Madagascar's political stability.

South Korea has raised its national cyber threat level to 'caution' following a significant fire at a government datacentre that disrupted critical digital infrastructure. This incident has sparked fears that hackers might exploit the ensuing chaos to launch cyberattacks. The urgency to restore government systems is paramount, as the intelligence agency works to safeguard against potential threats. This situation highlights the vulnerabilities in digital security and the importance of robust measures to protect essential services.

A comedy festival in Saudi Arabia is stirring controversy as prominent comedians face backlash for performing there. Critics argue that accepting lucrative deals to perform in a country with a troubled human rights record sends the wrong message, especially since Saudi Arabia was largely inaccessible until 2019. This situation highlights the ongoing debate about the ethics of entertainment in regions with questionable human rights practices, raising questions about the responsibilities of artists and the impact of their choices.

UN experts have raised alarm over the alarming rise in executions in Iran, with over 1,000 recorded in just the first nine months of 2025, already exceeding last year's total. This surge highlights a troubling trend in human rights violations within the country, drawing international attention and condemnation. The situation underscores the urgent need for global advocacy and intervention to address these human rights abuses.

The Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has announced plans to eliminate key climate legislation that sets legally binding targets for reducing emissions. This move raises significant concerns among environmentalists and climate advocates, as it could undermine efforts to combat climate change and meet international commitments. The decision reflects a broader political debate about the balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility, making it a crucial issue for voters who prioritize sustainability.

The recent interception of a pro-Palestinian aid flotilla by Israel has sparked widespread protests and international condemnation. Activists, including prominent figures like Greta Thunberg, were detained, leading to demonstrations in cities around the globe. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises questions about humanitarian aid and international response, making it a significant moment in the discourse surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

A tragic incident in Manchester during Yom Kippur has left two people dead and several others injured due to a stabbing and ramming attack. This shocking event has raised concerns about the safety of Jewish communities across the U.K., leading to heightened police security measures for congregations nationwide. It highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring safety and security for minority groups in the face of violence.

Tragic events unfolded in Morocco as two individuals lost their lives during youth-led anti-government protests in Lqliâa. This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing demonstrations, which have been calling for essential social justice reforms. Local authorities claim that the police acted in self-defense while attempting to control the situation, but the rising unrest highlights the deep-seated frustrations among the youth regarding governance and social issues. The implications of these protests could lead to increased scrutiny of government actions and a potential shift in public sentiment.

A tragic incident unfolded at the Heaton Park Hebrew congregation synagogue in Manchester, where a suspected terror attack resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals. The attacker reportedly used a car and a knife to target members of the public, leading to a swift response from police who shot the suspect. This event raises significant concerns about safety and security in places of worship, highlighting the ongoing threat of violence in communities.

A tragic attack in Manchester has left two people dead, occurring on the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of violence and intolerance faced by religious communities, making it a significant concern for society as a whole.