Gender Inequality Takes Center Stage in Global Protests

Special Feature

Millions march worldwide to demand an end to gender violence and inequality

On International Women’s Day, people across the globe took to the streets demanding stronger protections against gender-based violence, equal pay, and political representation. From Buenos Aires to Lagos, demonstrators called out governments for failing to uphold women’s rights, as systemic cases of sexual violence, pay gaps, and femicide persist. The rallies also highlighted restrictive laws in places like Afghanistan and Iran, where women face systemic oppression. With some governments pledging reforms in response, activists say the fight is far from over.

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Asia & the Pacific

China shifts focus to consumer spending as economic slowdown deepens

With growth stagnating, Beijing is doubling down on efforts to boost consumer spending, unveiling policies aimed at revitalizing household demand. The government is increasing welfare pensions, offering subsidies for electric vehicles, appliances, and other goods, and pledging improvements to healthcare. However, analysts warn that these measures may fall short as Premier Li Qiang’s words aren’t being backed up with substantial policy.

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South Korea’s high court orders the release of President Yoon ahead of his criminal trial. The controversial leader faces charges over his short-lived decree of martial law, a case that has polarized the country. Read more

Fourth high court ruling in Japan deems same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional. While observers view the verdict as progress for LGBTQ+ rights, appeals to the Japanese Supreme Court are anticipated. Read more

Eastern Europe

Key takeaways from Europe’s emergency summit on Ukraine

With fears mounting over Western support for Ukraine, European leaders held a high-stakes summit to reaffirm their commitment to Kyiv. The emergency talks came after former U.S. President Trump suspended U.S. aid, sending shockwaves through European capitals. EU leaders stressed the need for self-reliance, debating new financial and military packages to ensure Ukraine doesn’t falter against Russia. While unity was the official message at this ‘watershed moment’, divisions remain over how to fund long-term support and whether European forces should have a more direct role in the war.

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Greek government narrowly survives no-confidence vote amid train disaster outrage. Protests erupted in Athens as lawmakers rejected a motion to remove the government over its handling of the deadly 2023 train crash, which killed 57 people. Read more

Bosnia’s top court halts controversial separatist laws in Serb-controlled region. The ruling comes as the Serb Republic’s leadership pushes for increased autonomy, escalating tensions with Bosnia’s central government. Read more

Middle East

Egypt lays out its vision for post-war Gaza reconstruction

With ceasefire talks stalling, Egypt has proposed a multi-phase plan to rebuild Gaza, focusing on emergency humanitarian aid, infrastructure repairs, and eventual economic revival. Notably, the plan seeks to replace Hamas and instill a technocratic government, paving the way for the PA to govern. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and several European nations have backed the plan, but faces opposition from the U.S. and Israel.

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Syria’s interim President urges ‘peace and calm’ amid escalating violence. As clashes between government forces and pro-Assad fighters intensify, al-Sharaa calls for national unity, but his words stand in stark contrast with the reality that the nation is deeply divided. Read more

No Other Land and Palestinian filmmakers win the Oscar for best documentary. The film chronicles the Israeli demolitions of Palestinian homes in West Bank. Learn how to watch

Africa

Congo’s conflict on the brink of all-out war as rebel clashes intensify

The Democratic Republic of Congo is spiraling into deeper turmoil as clashes between government forces and rebel groups escalate. The conflict, centered in the eastern regions, has displaced thousands, with reports of mass killings and worsening humanitarian conditions. The Congolese government blames Rwanda for supporting M23 rebels, a claim Kagame denies. Analysts warn that if diplomatic efforts fail, the crisis could destabilize the entire Great Lakes region.

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South Sudan’s peace deal in jeopardy as top military official is arrested. The vice president’s spokesman warns the move could inflame tensions just months before elections. Read more

African women surgeons are breaking barriers and reshaping healthcare. A growing number of female surgeons across the continent are challenging gender norms and improving medical access in underserved areas. Read more

Latin America & the Caribbean

Mexico’s Sheinbaum wins another tariff reprieve

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised her recent phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, calling it “excellent and respectful.” The conversation resulted in a delay of tariffs for any goods that fall under the USMCA. Sheinbaum’s rally on March 9 became a celebration of the victory and a call for national pride.

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Haiti swears in a new transitional president amid ongoing political chaos. Economist Fritz Jean takes office in a bid to stabilize the country as conflict with gangs have displaced over 1 million people. Read more

Rio’s Carnival brings euphoria and escape as Brazil grapples with economic woes. Amid inflation and political unrest, the country’s biggest festival provided a much-needed release for millions. Read more