The South African Parliament's Select Committee on Security and Justice has initiated an investigation into the dual citizenship of Lesotho and South African citizens. The probe aims to address critical issues impacting service delivery in border towns, including access to social grants and healthcare, illegal crossings, and alleged corruption at border posts.
The Russian Federation is enacting a series of restrictive laws, including bans on the promotion of abortion and 'child-free ideology,' alongside outlawing LGBTQ+ activism. These measures are part of a broader government strategy to address the nation's shrinking and aging population and promote 'traditional family values.'
Icelandic women and non-binary people are observing a nationwide strike on October 24, 2025, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the groundbreaking 1975 Women's Day Off. The action aims to highlight persistent gender inequality, including the pay gap and gender-based violence, echoing demands from five decades ago.
The 4th Ministerial Conference on Feminist Foreign Policies concluded in Paris, France, on October 23, 2025, with the adoption of a joint political declaration. Hosted by France, the event brought together ministers and representatives from over 50 countries to reaffirm global commitment to gender equality and women's rights, coinciding with key anniversaries in women's rights advocacy.
Journalists in Turkey are at risk of criminalization for reporting on LGBTQ+ issues under the proposed '11th Judicial Package.' The draft legislation, expected to be submitted to Parliament, includes provisions that could lead to prison sentences of up to three years for those deemed to be promoting content 'contrary to biological sex and public morality,' drawing strong condemnation from international press and human rights organizations.
A North Dakota judge has upheld the state's ban on gender-affirming care for minors, ruling that the law does not violate the state's constitution. The decision, issued by District Judge Jackson J. Lofgren, allows the prohibition on puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones for transgender youth to remain in effect.
The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments in Louisiana v. Callais, a case that could redefine Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The challenge questions whether creating majority-minority districts to remedy vote dilution constitutes unconstitutional racial gerrymandering, potentially impacting minority representation nationwide.
The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Chiles v. Salazar, a challenge to Colorado's 2019 law banning conversion therapy for gay and transgender minors. The conservative majority questioned the law's impact on free speech rights, while the state defended it as a regulation of professional conduct to protect vulnerable youth.
South Africa's Constitutional Court has ruled that all parents of newborns are collectively entitled to four months and ten days of parental leave, to be shared as they choose. This landmark decision strikes down discriminatory provisions in existing labor laws, promoting gender equality and shared caregiving responsibilities.
D66 leader Rob Jetten has voiced strong criticism against the Dutch caretaker government's plan to extend the residency requirement for naturalization from five to ten years, arguing it could deter skilled workers and hinder integration. The proposal, approved by the cabinet, aims to foster a 'durable connection' but faces opposition ahead of upcoming elections.
The European Commission has voiced regret regarding Slovakia's recently adopted constitutional amendment, which defines only two genders and asserts national sovereignty over cultural and ethical issues, citing concerns about non-discrimination and the primacy of EU law.
Japan's government has decided to recognize same-sex couples as being in de facto marriages under nine more laws and ordinances, including the disaster condolence grant law. This expands protections to a total of 33 laws, building on a previous decision in January 2025 and a landmark Supreme Court ruling.
Hundreds of activists, academics, and citizens gathered outside the Law Courts in Valletta on Saturday, September 27, 2025, to demand the decriminalisation of abortion in Malta. Organised by the Voice for Choice coalition, the rally highlighted Malta's near-total ban on abortion, which remains the strictest in the European Union, and called for an end to the criminalisation of reproductive healthcare.
Latvia's Saeima has voted to initiate the process of withdrawing from the Istanbul Convention, less than two years after its ratification. The draft request, supported by 55 deputies, has ignited debate over the convention's impact and perceived ideological aspects, despite its core aim to combat violence against women.
The Netherlands is reportedly close to finalizing an agreement with Uganda to establish deportation centers for asylum seekers whose applications have been rejected. The controversial plan, spearheaded by Dutch ministers Reinette Klever and Marjolein Faber, aims to curb migration, but faces scrutiny over legality and human rights concerns.
Moldova's capital, Chișinău, hosted its 24th Festival of Ethnicities on September 21, 2025, under the theme 'Unity in Diversity'. The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of various ethnic communities through parades, traditional displays, and performances, with President Maia Sandu emphasizing national unity.
Hong Kong's legislature rejected a bill that would have granted limited legal rights to same-sex couples married overseas, drawing criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates. The government's proposal followed a court ruling mandating a legal framework for same-sex couples, but faced opposition from pro-Beijing legislators and religious groups.
Oliver L. North, a former Marine and national security aide, married Fawn Hall, his former secretary, in Virginia last month, four decades after their involvement in the Iran-Contra affair. The ceremony took place on August 27 and marked a significant new chapter in their long-standing relationship.
Dubai's Sheikha Mahra, daughter of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is engaged to American rapper French Montana, known for his hit "Unforgettable," with the proposal taking place during Paris Fashion Week. This engagement follows her divorce announcement from a previous marriage, which was notably delivered through a strongly-worded Instagram post.
Meghan Markle recently discussed the unique third date she had with Prince Harry during their time in Africa, revealing how it was a pivotal moment in realizing her love for him. In her Netflix series "With Love, Meghan," she also shared anecdotes about their early relationship, including the significance of their camping trip in Botswana.
