China’s judicial system has witnessed a significant shift in case dynamics over the first nine months of 2025, with a notable decline in criminal cases but a sharp rise in labor and business disputes. According to data released by the Supreme People’s Court, first-instance criminal cases dropped by 11.61% year-on-year to 804,000, reflecting the judiciary’s focus on maintaining social stability and safeguarding national security. Concurrently, labor-related disputes surged by 37.5% to 648,000 cases, while business-related cases jumped by 70.21% to 147,000. The data also highlighted a rise in securities-related cases (63.22%) and intellectual property lawsuits (33.78%), underscoring the growing complexity of civil litigation in China. To address these trends, courts have intensified efforts against fraud, resolved 71,000 such cases, and issued judicial interpretations. Additionally, Chinese courts handled 35,000 civil and commercial disputes involving foreign parties, marking a 60% increase, as part of efforts to support high-level opening-up and promote international commercial court development.
分类： society
-
Police attacked at protest outside asylum seeker hotel
Violence erupted in Dublin as Irish police faced aggressive protests outside the Citywest Hotel, a facility currently housing asylum seekers. Dramatic footage from the scene captured a police vehicle engulfed in flames, highlighting the intensity of the unrest. According to reports from RTÉ, Ireland’s state broadcaster, several thousand demonstrators had gathered outside the hotel, creating a volatile atmosphere. Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan condemned the violence, stating unequivocally that there is “no excuse” for such behavior. The incident underscores the growing tensions surrounding immigration policies in Ireland, with the Citywest Hotel becoming a focal point for public dissent. Authorities are now investigating the cause of the protest and assessing the broader implications for public safety and social cohesion.
-
Winter in UAE: Dubai opens applications for temporary camps
As the winter season approaches, Dubai Municipality has officially opened applications for temporary winter camps for the 2025-2026 season. Starting Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 10 AM, residents can apply through the ‘Dubai Now’ app or the Dubai Municipality website (wintercamp.dm.gov.ae). Applicants must log in using UAE Pass to access the ‘Temporary Winter Camp Permit Application Service’ form. The permits, valid from November 1 to April 30, are exclusively for family use and cannot be rented or utilized by hotels or private companies. Camp reservations require a minimum commitment of three months, extendable up to the full six-month camping season. To complete the application, individuals must provide a copy of their passport, Family Book, and bank account details, including the International Bank Account Number (IBAN). Once approved, permit holders can access electronic services such as permit copies, extensions, and refunds through the municipality portal. Designated camping plots in Al Aweer offer a secure and well-equipped environment for families to enjoy Dubai’s desert landscape. Strict safety regulations mandate that camps be fenced and used solely for camping and family-related activities. Unauthorized structures or activities outside the permit limits are prohibited. This initiative underscores Dubai Municipality’s commitment to providing safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences during the cooler months.
-
How Arab families in foreign countries keep children connected to Arabic
As the 2025 Arab Reading Challenge approaches its grand finale, the spotlight shines on Arab families living in non-Arab countries who are determined to keep their children connected to their linguistic and cultural heritage. The Community Champions category of the competition has become a vital platform for these families, showcasing their efforts to nurture Arabic proficiency and cultural pride among their children in foreign environments.
-
Inside UAE shelter offering second chance to women rescued from human trafficking rings
In the United Arab Emirates, a beacon of hope shines for women who have fallen victim to human trafficking. Lured by false promises of stable jobs and a better life, many women arrive in the UAE only to find themselves trapped in exploitative situations. Stripped of their freedom and subjected to physical and emotional abuse, these women are often left traumatized and in desperate need of help. When identified through police investigations, public prosecution, or the national hotline, victims are transferred to specialized shelters like the Aman Centre for Women and Children. This facility offers comprehensive care, including medical treatment, psychological support, legal assistance, and vocational training, to help survivors recover and rebuild their lives. Many victims arrive with chronic health issues or injuries resulting from prolonged exploitation. During their stay, they receive counselling and skills training to prepare them for independent living. Once legal proceedings are complete, survivors may choose to remain in the UAE or return home with assistance from the Victim Support Fund, which helps them establish small businesses such as beauty salons, tailoring shops, or grocery stores. Several women who once lived in the shelter have since built sustainable ventures in their home countries. The director of the Aman Centre emphasizes the importance of restoring dignity and independence. “We work to ensure these women can begin new lives here or return home with the skills and confidence to start again,” she said. Beyond addressing human trafficking, the centre also tackles family-related cases involving women and young girls facing educational or social challenges. Through counselling, workshops, and partnerships with private universities, the centre helps families navigate complex issues and improve relationships. The director noted that societal challenges are constantly evolving, requiring institutions like the Aman Centre to adapt and provide relevant guidance. “Social issues change with society, and we must be ready to offer awareness, rehabilitation, and support,” she explained. The centre’s approach is rooted in addressing the root causes of problems to prevent recurrence. “We start with the family because that’s where change begins,” she added. By creating a safe and supportive environment, the Aman Centre continues to empower women and children, helping them recover, rebuild, and regain stability in their lives.
-
The Louvre’s crown jewel heist is now a race against time for authorities — and the brazen thieves
In a stunning act of audacity, thieves executed a meticulously planned heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, making off with priceless French crown jewels valued at an estimated $102 million. The stolen treasures, including an emerald necklace and earrings, two crowns, two brooches, a sapphire necklace, and a single earring, represent the zenith of 19th-century haute joaillerie. These artifacts, saved from a government auction in 1887, are not merely decorative but symbolize France’s historical wealth, power, and cultural legacy. The theft has left the nation grappling with yet another security lapse at the Louvre, which has faced criticism for overcrowding and outdated facilities. Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau revealed that over 100 investigators are now on the case, hunting for the suspects and the stolen gems. The robbers, clad in bright yellow jackets, infiltrated the Apollo Gallery at 9:34 a.m., spending just four minutes inside before fleeing on motorbikes. Among the stolen items were a crown gifted by Napoleon III to Empress Eugenie and a necklace from Napoleon Bonaparte to his wife Marie-Louise. Experts fear the jewels may be dismantled and sold piecemeal, effectively erasing them from history. The emotional toll on France is profound, with conservative lawmaker Maxime Michelet decrying the theft as a blow to national pride. The heist, reminiscent of a scene from the French TV show ‘Lupin,’ underscores the challenges of safeguarding cultural heritage in an era of sophisticated crime.
-
UAE: Speed limiter devices to be installed in Ajman taxis to reduce road hazards
Ajman has taken a groundbreaking step in road safety by introducing smart speed limiter devices in all taxis and limousines operating within the emirate. This innovative system, the first of its kind in the UAE, leverages advanced technology to automatically adjust vehicle speeds based on real-time location and designated road limits. Unlike traditional speed limiters, the new devices utilize an integrated smart mapping system that identifies permitted speeds for specific areas, ensuring precise and continuous compliance. The system directly synchronizes with the vehicle’s electronic driving mechanism, offering unparalleled accuracy in speed control. Additionally, it provides instant data updates to maintain adherence to speed regulations. This initiative aims to curb hazardous driving behaviors, enhance passenger and driver safety, and set a new standard for road safety in the region. Ajman’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to leveraging technology for public welfare and reducing traffic-related risks.
-
Watch: Dozens of giant pumpkins hit the water for rowing race
In a quirky and entertaining event, dozens of oversized pumpkins took to the water for an unconventional rowing race in the US state of Oregon. Participants, dubbed ‘squashbucklers,’ carved out these massive gourds, which were locally grown, transforming them into makeshift boats. The event showcased the creativity and community spirit of the region, drawing attention to the agricultural prowess of Oregon. Spectators gathered to witness the unusual competition, which blended humor, innovation, and a celebration of local produce. The race not only provided a unique form of entertainment but also highlighted the versatility of pumpkins beyond their traditional uses.
-
Zuckerberg to testify in landmark social media trial
In a significant legal development, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has been mandated to testify in a groundbreaking trial addressing the impact of social media on young people. The Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Carolyn Kuhl dismissed Meta Platforms’ argument that Zuckerberg’s in-person appearance was unnecessary. The order also extends to Snap CEO Evan Spiegel and Instagram head Adam Mosseri, both of whom are required to testify. The trial, scheduled for January, is among the first to emerge from a surge of lawsuits accusing social media giants of designing addictive apps that pose mental health risks to young users. Hundreds of claims consolidated into this case allege that platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat have inadequate parental controls and safety features, while notifications for ‘likes’ and other interactions keep young users engaged. Meta and Snap have denied these allegations, citing federal law protections from liability for user-generated content. However, Judge Kuhl ruled that the companies must address claims of negligence and personal injury related to app design. Lawyers representing plaintiffs argue that social media firms prioritized profits over implementing necessary safeguards. Meta had previously stated that Zuckerberg and Mosseri had already been questioned and that in-person testimony would impose a ‘substantial burden.’ Judge Kuhl emphasized that CEO testimony is crucial for evaluating negligence claims, as their knowledge of potential harms and failure to act could be pivotal. Beasley Allen, a law firm involved in the litigation, welcomed the ruling, expressing eagerness to hold these companies accountable for the harm caused to children. The trial comes amid increasing legal and political scrutiny of social media’s impact on youth mental health. Last year, Zuckerberg testified before Congress, defending Meta’s safety measures while denying a causal link between social media use and mental health issues. Instagram has since introduced ‘teen accounts’ and updated its content moderation system to address these concerns.
-
Cambridge University to consider divesting from arms industry amid Gaza protests
In a groundbreaking move, the University of Cambridge has announced its decision to divest from companies involved in the production of ‘controversial weapons.’ This decision follows the publication of a landmark report that scrutinized the university’s ties to the arms industry. The report, unanimously approved by the University Council, calls for the divestment of the university’s £4.2 billion ($5.62 billion) endowment fund from any company manufacturing weapons deemed illegal under UK law, regardless of their legality elsewhere. This includes chemical and biological weapons, as well as cluster munitions. The council has adopted this as policy and is set to vote on November 20 on whether to extend this divestment to all arms manufacturers. The announcement comes after years of student-led pro-Palestine protests and follows King’s College’s decision to divest from the arms industry and companies complicit in the occupation of Ukraine and Palestinian territories. The report highlighted the challenges posed by the secrecy surrounding Cambridge’s investments, noting that the lack of transparency has fueled suspicions about the extent of the university’s investments in arms manufacturers. The report presented three options: complete divestment, maintaining the status quo, or capping investments in conventional weapons at one percent. Cambridge for Palestine (C4P), a group that has organized protests and encampments, hailed the development as a ‘forced reckoning,’ emphasizing that the university has been compelled to consider complete divestment as a legitimate option. The Cambridge Students’ Union has also backed full divestment from the arms industry. Professor Graham Virgo, chair of the working group that conducted the review, acknowledged the thorough and thoughtful process that led to the report, thanking all contributors. Cambridge University, composed of 31 self-governing colleges, operates autonomously in its financial investments. King’s College, founded in 1441, announced in May that it would exclude companies involved in illegal activities or the production of military and nuclear weapons from its investments by the end of 2025. As of March 2023, the college had £2.2 million ($2.94 million) invested in arms companies, including Lockheed Martin, Korea Aerospace, and BAE Systems. Trinity College, the university’s wealthiest, faced protests over its investments in Elbit Systems, Israel’s largest arms company. Despite student reports of divestment, the college has refused to comment on its investments, and freedom of information requests revealed continued investments in arms companies.