Reimagining queer solidarity in India
Within the country’s LGBTQIA+ movement, marginal voices are demanding recognition because beyond the rainbow flags and celebratory marches lies a complex landscape of exclusion which challenges the very foundations of what it means to be ‘proud.’ Though the rainbow has long been a symbol of hope, unity, and diverse expression,...
Current in People
When consumer choices become political statements
In a world increasingly divided by complex geopolitical tensions, consumers are showing solidarity with humanitarian causes by challenging multinational corporations. Last month, Gaza Cola – the beverage ‘with a message and a mission’ – took off in the UK. The popularity of this ‘apartheid-free’ alternative to boycotted brands among pro-Palestine supporters...
Namibia’s first openly queer candidates vie for parliamentary seats
In Namibia’s elections, two openly LGBTIQ+ candidates, Kevin Wessels and William Minnie, made history by vying for parliamentary seats. Despite not winning, their candidacies have proven the country’s inclusion and respect to human rights. 28-year-old Kevin Wessels and 22-year-old William Minnie made history a week ago as Namibia’s first...
Owner of the ‘UK Nightlife’ TikTok account has been arrested
A new era of public exposure has landed us here. A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of stalking and harassment after covertly filming women on nights out and uploading the videos to TikTok and Instagram. The clips, often titled ‘Manchester nightlife’ or ‘Liverpool nightlife’ were uploaded daily, and featured...
Why are ecosystems in west India vanishing?
As developers commodify pristine landscapes to meet the growing demand for luxury coastal living in Goa, the state faces an environmental reckoning that threatens not only its natural heritage, but the survival of its delicate ecological balance. Long celebrated for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, the picturesque coastal state...
Confronting the political weaponisation of transgender issues
In the charged landscape of modern global politics, where culture wars often overshadow human rights, the transgender community’s struggle reveals deep-rooted systemic inequalities. Political campaigns and electoral systems worldwide continue to marginalise transgender communities, reflecting complex layers of social, economic, and political discrimination. What was once a marginal discussion has...
UK lawmakers get closer to legalising assisted dying
Should assisted dying be made available in the UK? Many government representatives across the nation believe so – and they’ve just moved one step closer to legalising it. Last week marked a historic shift in the contentious debate on assisted dying in the UK. For the first time in nearly a decade, MPs voted in favour of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill which, if passed, would allow...
New Zealand faces protests over controversial new bill
The Treaty Principles Bill, introduced by the ACT Party, has sparked heated debate in New Zealand, raising concerns about its potential impact on Māori rights and the foundational partnership established by the Treaty of Waitangi. In recent days, New Zealand saw peaceful protests with tens of thousands of people marching in Wellington and other cities. Seen as a powerful expression of Māori identity and resilience, the protests stood against the...
Nigeria introduces free cesarean section for vulnerable women
In addressing the alarming maternal mortality rate, Nigeria has launched a free cesarean sections (C-sections) program to vulnerable women and girls in rural areas of the country. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria ranks fourth globally in maternal mortality, a saddening statistic underscoring the need for urgent action. Despite the government’s ministry of health efforts over recent decades, limited access to quality healthcare, coupled with the high cost...
Iran weaponizing ‘mental health clinics’ for those defying hijab laws
Policies targeting those who refuse to cover up in Iran are growing increasingly strict, with many now at risk of being labeled as mentally ill and subjected to so-called treatment. Maya Angelou once said, ‘Whenever a woman stands up for herself - whether she realizes it or not - she stands up for all women.’ This month, activists worldwide have not only taken a stand but have physically stripped in...
