Global Pulse

分类： society

  • ‘Survivors lost everything’: Migrant workers seek support after Hong Kong fire

    ‘Survivors lost everything’: Migrant workers seek support after Hong Kong fire

    In the aftermath of Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in over a century, the city’s migrant worker community faces profound devastation and systemic challenges. The Wang Fuk Court high-rise blaze claimed 146 lives, including at least 10 migrant domestic workers, with dozens more remaining unaccounted for according to consulate figures.

    Victoria Park echoed with sorrow during weekend memorial services where hundreds gathered to mourn victims and pray for missing companions. The tragedy has highlighted the precarious position of Hong Kong’s 370,000-strong migrant workforce, predominantly women from the Philippines and Indonesia who provide essential care for children and elderly residents.

    Personal accounts emerging from the disaster reveal both tragedy and extraordinary courage. Rhodora Alcaraz, a newly arrived Filipino worker, reportedly shielded her employer’s three-month-old infant with her own body during the fire. Rescuers discovered her still cradling the child in their smoke-filled apartment, though her current medical condition remains unconfirmed.

    The humanitarian crisis extends beyond immediate casualties. Over 50 survivors have sought assistance from the Asian Migrants’ Coordinating Body, facing severe trauma and the complete loss of personal documents, clothing, and belongings. Shiela Tebia, spokeswoman for the organization, noted that many survivors ‘cannot sleep well’ and remain traumatized while continuing their caregiving duties for grieving employers.

    Despite government promises of HK$200,000 ($25,700) in assistance to families of deceased victims, advocacy groups emphasize that survivors face dire circumstances. Edwina Antonio of Bethune House migrant women’s refuge stressed that financial support must extend to those who lost everything, noting migrant workers are typically ‘the only breadwinners of their families.’

    Consular officials report nine Indonesian nationals confirmed deceased with 42 unaccounted for, while Philippine authorities confirm one fatality and seven missing citizens. The disaster has triggered calls for comprehensive support systems and greater recognition of migrant workers’ contributions to Hong Kong society.

  • A controversial infant Jesus is stolen from a Belgian Nativity scene

    A controversial infant Jesus is stolen from a Belgian Nativity scene

    BRUSSELS — Belgian authorities are investigating the audacious theft of a distinctive infant Jesus figure from a public Nativity display on Brussels’ historic Grand Place, marking the latest development in an ongoing cultural debate that has divided public opinion. The faceless cloth icon, created by artist Victoria-Maria Geyer as an inclusive interpretation of the Christ child, disappeared between Friday night and Saturday morning from its manger beneath the city’s massive Christmas tree.

    The stolen artwork had previously ignited substantial social media discourse due to its unconventional design—featureless faces crafted from soft fabrics that intentionally lacked eyes, noses, and mouths. Geyer, a self-described devout Catholic, conceived the figures to enable believers worldwide to project their own identities onto the biblical characters, fostering universal connection to the Christmas narrative regardless of cultural background.

    Despite the artist’s thoughtful intentions, the installation drew sharp criticism from some public figures. Georges-Louis Bouchez, leader of Belgium’s center-right MR party, publicly denounced the figures on social media platform X, comparing them to ‘zombie-like’ individuals and asserting they failed to capture the Christmas spirit.

    Brussels Major Events deputy director Delphine Romanus confirmed that initial reports of the figurine being beheaded were inaccurate, though she acknowledged previous incidents involving damage or theft of Nativity figures. The organization, which manages the annual Christmas market attracting over 4 million visitors, has already installed a replacement Jesus figure and increased security monitoring around the display.

    Interestingly, public sentiment has shifted since the theft, with initial negative social media reactions transforming into more supportive responses toward the artist’s vision. Local resident Francis De Laveleye expressed dismay at the vandalism, criticizing how artistic expression had been undermined by what he termed ‘a stupid little controversy that ridicules Brussels.’

    The Christmas market itself continues operation with 238 vendors offering seasonal goods, with the Nativity scene remaining a central attraction despite the controversy.

  • Kuwait forms task force to combat human trafficking, migrant smuggling

    Kuwait forms task force to combat human trafficking, migrant smuggling

    Kuwait has launched a comprehensive institutional response to human trafficking and migrant smuggling through the creation of a specialized task force within its Public Prosecution authority. This strategic move aims to strengthen victim protection protocols while enhancing investigative capabilities against transnational criminal operations.

    The newly formed unit will implement standardized procedural models for victim identification and protection, activating a national referral system to ensure appropriate care for those affected by trafficking networks. The task force will develop advanced investigation methodologies and evidence collection techniques specifically tailored to these complex crimes.

    Key operational responsibilities include preparing standardized documentation forms for judicial procedures, reviewing both existing and emerging cases to identify practical challenges, and establishing a comprehensive database for all trafficking and smuggling cases. The unit will also produce periodic analytical reports for submission to the Attorney General’s office.

    Beyond domestic operations, the task force will engage in international coordination efforts, addressing observations contained in United Nations and regional reports while preparing official responses. The unit will develop technical guidelines for judicial authorities regarding crime indicators and implement specialized training programs for Public Prosecution members.

    This initiative follows Kuwait’s recent legislative strengthening against organized crime, including tougher penalties for drug offenses that now carry potential life imprisonment or death penalty sentences. The establishment of this specialized unit represents Kuwait’s commitment to addressing human trafficking through coordinated judicial and law enforcement action.

  • First photos from inside burnt Hong Kong building as death toll rises to 146

    First photos from inside burnt Hong Kong building as death toll rises to 146

    Hong Kong authorities continue recovery operations at the scene of a catastrophic fire that has now claimed 146 lives, making it one of the most devastating building fires in the city’s history. The tragedy unfolded in a decades-old residential structure that housed both businesses and residential units, raising serious questions about building safety standards in older urban districts.

    Emergency responders faced immense challenges accessing the upper floors where the fire originated, with narrow staircases and obstructed escape routes hampering rescue efforts. The building’s aging infrastructure and reportedly compromised fire safety systems contributed to the rapid spread of flames and toxic smoke throughout the structure.

    Survivors described scenes of chaos and desperation as occupants attempted to flee the inferno. Many became trapped in upper-level units, with some resorting to extreme measures including jumping from windows in attempts to escape the advancing flames. The complex layout of the building, which had undergone numerous unauthorized modifications over the years, created a maze-like environment that proved deadly during evacuation.

    Government officials have declared a period of mourning and initiated a comprehensive investigation into the causes of the fire and the adequacy of existing building safety regulations. The tragedy has prompted urgent calls for city-wide inspections of similar aging structures and stricter enforcement of fire code compliance, particularly in mixed-use buildings that combine commercial and residential functions.

    International fire safety experts have been consulted to assist with the investigation, while community organizations have mobilized to support grieving families and survivors. The incident has sparked broader discussions about urban renewal policies and the challenges of maintaining safety standards in rapidly aging building stock within dense metropolitan environments.

  • UAE President directs 7 Abu Dhabi mosques to be named after different emirates

    UAE President directs 7 Abu Dhabi mosques to be named after different emirates

    In a significant cultural and religious initiative, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has directed the naming of seven newly constructed mosques in Abu Dhabi after each of the nation’s seven emirates. This announcement coincides with the country’s 54th National Day celebrations, symbolizing national unity and cultural preservation.

    The mosques, located in Mohamed bin Zayed City, represent a substantial architectural achievement with a combined capacity of approximately 6,000 worshippers. According to Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Derei, Chairman of the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, these structures span an area of roughly 12,000 square meters and are scheduled to open to the public in January 2026.

    Architecturally, the mosques blend traditional Islamic artistic elements with contemporary design principles, creating spaces that honor heritage while embracing modernity. The design approach carefully balances aesthetic appeal with functional requirements for worship and community gatherings.

    Dr. Al Derei emphasized the President’s commitment to supporting religious infrastructure that facilitates comfortable worship experiences while strengthening the mosque’s role as a community hub. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader urban development strategy, ensuring that religious institutions keep pace with the nation’s growth and modernization.

    The project represents more than mere construction—it embodies the UAE’s dedication to preserving Islamic identity while fostering national unity through architectural symbolism that connects each emirate to the nation’s collective identity.

  • Victim at centre of murder probe named

    Victim at centre of murder probe named

    The family of Vijay Kumar has issued an emotional tribute following the 30-year-old’s tragic death after being discovered with critical injuries on Barbourne Road in Worcester. The incident occurred during the early hours of November 25th at approximately 04:15 GMT, with police confirming five individuals have been arrested on suspicion of murder and subsequently released on bail as investigations proceed.

    In a moving statement, Kumar’s relatives painted a portrait of a man who embodied “purpose, passion and heart” in his daily life. They described how he consistently “brought energy, joy and laughter” to those around him, creating an atmosphere where “life was never dull with him around.”

    The family emphasized Kumar’s resilient character, noting that “even in hard times, his spirit was unbreakable” and highlighting his profound care for loved ones through “small gestures, shared glances and unexpected kindness” rather than mere words. They expressed the profound impact of their loss, stating his “tragic departure has left us devastated and has created a void in our lives” despite his “unbelievably short” time with them.

    West Mercia Police detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and have appealed to the public for any information that might assist their inquiry. The family concluded their tribute by vowing to honor Kumar’s memory, acknowledging they would miss him “deeply and carry his memory forward” through the difficult days ahead.

  • Working during UAE National Day holidays? How does compensatory leave work

    Working during UAE National Day holidays? How does compensatory leave work

    As the UAE prepares for its National Day celebrations, private-sector employees anticipating a four-day weekend should note their legal entitlements when required to work during official holidays. UAE labor regulations provide clear compensation mechanisms that employers must follow for holiday shifts.

    The foundational legislation, Article 28 of the UAE Labour Law titled ‘Official Holidays and Requiring Worker to Work Therein,’ establishes two compensation options for holiday work: employers must either provide a substitute rest day or pay the normal daily wage plus a minimum 50% bonus based on the employee’s basic wage. This effectively guarantees at least 1.5 times the regular compensation for holiday work.

    Legal protections extend uniformly across the workforce hierarchy, covering senior staff, junior employees, and contract workers without discrimination. All private-sector employees benefit from these safeguards under federal law.

    Human resources consultant Ghina El Naber observes that many workers, particularly in retail and hospitality sectors, remain unaware of their entitlements. ‘The law is unequivocal. Working on a public holiday should never be treated as an ordinary shift,’ El Naber emphasized. ‘Employees should scrutinize their pay slips and assert their rights through proper channels when compensation is absent.’

    For non-compliant employers, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) provides complaint mechanisms, with labor dispute tribunals consistently enforcing strict adherence to Article 28 provisions.

    The 2025 holiday schedule sees National Day observations moving to December 1-2 (Monday-Tuesday), creating an extended weekend for many workers. Those working during this period should verify their compensation through either additional pay reflected in their earnings or substitute leave days allocated by their employer.

  • National Guard shooting suspect spent weeks isolated in bedroom, case worker’s email says

    National Guard shooting suspect spent weeks isolated in bedroom, case worker’s email says

    Newly revealed documents paint a troubling picture of the mental state of Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the Afghan national accused of ambushing and killing National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and seriously wounding Andrew Wolf, 24, in Washington DC last week. Emails from a case worker in early 2024, obtained by CBS News, describe a man suffering from severe psychological episodes, spending weeks at a time isolated in a darkened room and experiencing manic periods where he would disappear with the family car.

    Lakanwal entered the United States in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden-era program evacuating Afghans who had cooperated with American forces. A former member of an Afghan ‘Zero Unit’ that worked directly with the CIA, he was among those fearing Taliban retribution after the U.S. withdrawal. His asylum application was granted earlier this year.

    The case worker emails, sent to the non-profit US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, expressed grave concerns about the family’s stability. The worker noted Lakanwal had been unemployed for a year, putting his wife and five children at risk of eviction from their home in Bellingham, Washington. ‘I think the father has mental health issues that are not addressed,’ one January 2024 email stated, adding that he refused to speak to anyone.

    The attack has triggered significant political repercussions. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem claimed Lakanwal had been ‘radicalized’ after arriving in the U.S. through connections in his home community. In response, the Trump administration has announced a permanent pause on migration from ‘third world countries’ and halted all asylum decisions indefinitely to implement stricter vetting protocols. Lakanwal, who was shot during the incident and remains hospitalized, now faces murder charges.

  • Pastor and new bride abducted in latest Nigeria attacks

    Pastor and new bride abducted in latest Nigeria attacks

    A fresh wave of coordinated kidnappings has struck Nigeria, with armed assailants seizing at least 20 individuals across two separate incidents over the weekend, exacerbating the nation’s ongoing security crisis.

    In the central Kogi state, attackers violently stormed the newly established Cherubim and Seraphim Church during Sunday services. The assailants discharged firearms into the congregation, creating panic and chaos as worshippers scrambled for safety. The gunmen subsequently abducted the church pastor, his wife, and several other parishioners in a brazen assault on religious freedom.

    Simultaneously, in the predominantly Muslim northern region of Sokoto, a pre-wedding gathering turned into a nightmare when gunmen raided a residential compound. The perpetrators kidnapped a bride-to-be along with her bridesmaids and wedding guests who had assembled for traditional pre-nuptial ceremonies. Additional victims included an infant, the child’s mother, and another woman according to confirmed reports.

    These incidents represent an alarming pattern of targeted attacks on educational institutions and places of worship throughout northern and central Nigeria. While criminal gangs seeking ransom payments are widely believed responsible for most abductions, presidential spokespersons have controversially attributed the attacks to jihadist organizations, creating conflicting narratives about perpetrator motivations.

    Kingsley Fanwo, official spokesperson for the Kogi state government, verified the Ejiba church attack to international media while acknowledging difficulties in confirming precise casualty figures. Fanwo stated that combined security forces comprising conventional agencies and local defense networks have initiated pursuit operations to locate the kidnappers.

    This security crisis has highlighted the acute vulnerability of rural communities, with approximately 250 schoolchildren and 12 educators remaining missing following a massive abduction several weeks prior. Although some previous kidnapping victims have reportedly been released, the persistent attacks have intensified pressure on Nigerian authorities to enhance protective measures for at-risk populations.

    The Nigerian government has implemented a official ban on ransom payments to disrupt the economics of kidnapping enterprises, though widespread circumvention of this prohibition is believed to continue. The situation attracted international attention recently when former US President Donald Trump threatened military intervention if Christian protections weren’t strengthened, though Nigerian officials maintain that victims represent all religious demographics equally.

  • ‘Rage bait’ named Oxford University Press word of year as outrage fuels social media traffic in 2025

    ‘Rage bait’ named Oxford University Press word of year as outrage fuels social media traffic in 2025

    LONDON — In a definitive reflection of contemporary digital culture, Oxford University Press has declared “rage bait” its Word of the Year for 2025. The selection process, conducted by the publisher’s expert lexicographers, identifies terms that embody the prevailing spirit and significant linguistic developments of the era.

    The chosen phrase precisely defines online material crafted with the explicit intention to provoke intense anger, frustration, or moral outrage. This provocative content functions as a strategic mechanism to amplify user engagement—measured through comments, shares, and reactions—thereby funneling substantial traffic toward specific social media accounts and content creators.

    Renowned lexicographer Susie Dent, in an interview with the BBC, elucidated the psychological and algorithmic dynamics fueling this phenomenon. “The creators of such content revel in the ensuing storm of millions of interactions,” Dent stated. She attributed the virality of rage bait to social media platforms’ underlying algorithms, which, despite a universal appreciation for positive content, demonstrably prioritize and amplify negative and provocative material due to its superior engagement metrics.

    “Rage bait” emerged victorious from a competitive shortlist that included two other digitally-native terms: “aura farming” and “biohack.” The former denotes the calculated cultivation of a public persona designed to project an image of effortless confidence, coolness, or enigmatic appeal. The latter refers to a range of practices aimed at biologically enhancing one’s physical capabilities, cognitive function, or overall longevity.

    The final selection incorporated insights from a period of public voting on the lexicographers’ shortlisted candidates, cementing “rage bait’s” status as the most culturally resonant term.

    This annual tradition, upheld by Oxford University Press—the publisher of the esteemed Oxford English Dictionary—since 2004, serves as a linguistic barometer. It tracks the emergence of new words and the evolution of language usage, highlighting those with profound cultural impact. Historical selections include “podcast” (2005), “emoji” (2015), and 2022’s “goblin mode,” which captured the post-pandemic reluctance to resume pre-existing social norms.