Is Tanzania heading for deeper upheaval?

French First Lady Brigitte Macron has faced backlash after a video emerged in which she used a derogatory term to describe feminist activists who interrupted a performance by comedian Ary Abittan, who has previously faced allegations of rape. Her comments were intended to criticize the activists' protest methods but have sparked significant outrage.

Fierce fighting has erupted in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as M23 rebel fighters advance towards the strategic city of Uvira, just days after a peace deal was signed between Rwanda and the DRC in Washington. This escalation follows a history of conflict involving the M23 group, which has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda.

Families of individuals who disappeared during the Syrian conflict continue to seek closure as the new government pledges to uncover the truth. Despite these promises, hope is dwindling for many as the search for the missing remains fraught with challenges and uncertainty.

A significant police presence has been reported across major cities in Tanzania, as authorities have urged citizens to remain indoors in anticipation of a planned protest. This crackdown follows a period of heightened tensions after recent elections, which have been marred by violence and allegations of human rights abuses.

Authorities in the Gaza Strip are warning that an incoming winter storm will severely impact hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals living in tents and makeshift shelters, as violence continues in the region, including the recent killing of a civilian by Israeli forces.

Australia has enacted a law prohibiting individuals under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms, set to take effect on December 10, 2025. This legislation aims to mitigate online risks for minors, including cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content, as critics express concerns about normalizing surveillance and cutting off support networks for young people.

Renewed clashes along the Thailand-Cambodia border have escalated tensions significantly, with both nations accusing each other of violating a ceasefire agreement. The recent violence has resulted in multiple civilian casualties, including the deaths of seven civilians and three Thai soldiers, indicating a potential shift towards a more severe phase of conflict.

Thailand’s foreign minister stated that Cambodia is currently not prepared for peace negotiations, highlighting ongoing tensions between the two nations. This assertion comes amid a backdrop of military actions, including airstrikes initiated by Thailand along their disputed border, which have resulted in civilian casualties and mass evacuations.