Tibet: Dalai Lama confirms his successor will be chosen
The Dalai Lama has confirmed that the centuries-old institution of his spiritual role will continue after his death, affirming that a successor will be appointed by the Gaden Phodrang Trust, his official office. In a video message from Dharamshala, India (where he lives in exile), the Tibetan spiritual leader said that no outside authority has any right to interfere in the process of choosing his reincarnation. His statement directly challenges China's claim that any future Dalai Lama must be approved by Beijing. The announcement, delivered during his 90th birthday celebrations according to the Tibetan lunar calendar, was met with joy by followers and monks gathered from around the world. The decision ends years of speculation, including previous suggestions that the Dalai Lama might not be reincarnated or that a girl might take up the role. China, which annexed Tibet in 1950, swiftly rejected the announcement, reiterating its stance that succession must follow state-approved regulations.
Colombia: reversing the migration trend
In the coastal town of Necocli, migrant families are now returning south after failed attempts to enter the USA, marking a reversal of a once-dominant northward migration trend. Harsh immigration policies under Donald Trump, including the withdrawal of the asylum app and increased military presence along the border, have left many stranded in Mexico or deterred from even attempting the journey. Some, like Luis Angel Yagua Parra, braved the deadly Darién Gap only to be forced back. Others, including a Venezuelan couple whose child was born in the USA, have left voluntarily, fearing deportation. Aid workers in Necoclí report a growing daily influx of returnees, but dwindling foreign support has led to closures of humanitarian organisations. Pastor Jose Mendoza’s food hall, struggling to meet rising needs, might have to close due to a lack of funding. For families like Marisela Bellorin’s, who have been homeless for months, survival is precarious. As the ‘American dream’ fades, many migrants are choosing new destinations such as Chile, in search of safety and stability.
Hong Kong: last pro-democracy group decides to disband
The League of Social Democrats, Hong Kong’s last active pro-democracy street protest group, has announced its disbandment due to mounting political pressure. Formed in 2006, the party was known for bold, confrontational tactics and a strong stance on civil liberties and social justice. Despite dwindling influence and the loss of all legislative seats, it had continued public advocacy, even after arrests and convictions of key members. Its chairperson, Chan Po-ying, cited safety concerns for members as a key factor in the decision. The move follows years of intense suppression of dissent under Beijing’s national security law, which has led to the closure of civil society groups, independent media, and protests once common. Chan declared the ‘one country, two systems’ principle dead and expressed sorrow, yet resolve: ‘Be like a flying spark... keeping that light alive.’ She said she doesn’t believe that democracy will come in the near future.
Zimbabwe: new IOC president faces high expectations and big challenges
Olympic swimming champion Kirsty Coventry has been inaugurated as the tenth president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), becoming the first woman, first African, and youngest person to hold the role. Her appointment has ignited pride in Zimbabwe and hope for broader global inclusion, particularly for Africa and the Middle East. Coventry has described the Olympics as a platform for inspiration and hope, while also vowing to lead on complex issues. One pressing concern is what to do about transgender athletes, especially after recent controversies. She has pledged to create a taskforce involving scientists and federations to revisit gender eligibility policies, prioritising fairness in the female category. Coventry’s first major decision was to pause the 2036 Games bidding process, signaling a desire for transparency and reform. Yet she faces challenges ahead, including rising global tensions and pressure to ensure the Olympic movement remains politically neutral while promoting unity. Her leadership will be tested by both internal reform and external geopolitical strife.
