The UK government has unveiled a sweeping overhaul of its asylum system, aiming to drastically reduce protections for refugees and curb irregular immigration. Announced by the Labour government late Saturday, the new measures are modeled on Denmark’s stringent asylum policies and include cutting the length of refugee status from five years to 30 months, subject to regular reviews. Refugees will also face a 20-year wait before applying for long-term residency, up from the current five-year period. Additionally, automatic benefits for asylum seekers will be revoked, with support becoming discretionary and contingent on factors such as employment status and criminal record. Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood described the reforms as the ‘largest overhaul of asylum policy in modern times,’ intended to make the UK less attractive to irregular migrants and facilitate the removal of those already in the country. The move comes amid record-high asylum claims, with 111,000 applications recorded in the year to June 2025. The government is also under pressure to address the surge in Channel crossings, which have fueled the popularity of the anti-immigrant Reform UK party. Critics, including Refugee Council CEO Enver Solomon, argue that the measures will not deter migration and could harm refugees seeking safety and stability in the UK.
博客
-
Prithviraj Sukumaran plays a sandalwood smuggler in ‘Vilayath Buddha’
The highly anticipated Malayalam film ‘Vilayath Buddha,’ starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, has unveiled its gripping trailer, setting the stage for a cinematic experience rich in drama and emotion. Directed by Jayan Nambiar, the film is set against the lush backdrop of the iconic sandalwood forests of Marayoor in south India. The trailer introduces Sukumaran as Double Mohanan, a complex character embroiled in the illicit world of sandalwood smuggling. The narrative weaves together themes of revenge, rivalry, and romance, promising a compelling storyline. The trailer also highlights the intense confrontation between Sukumaran and Shammi Thilakan’s character, hinting at a powerful on-screen clash. Supporting roles are played by Anu Mohan, Rajashri Nair, and Teejay Arunasalam, adding depth to the ensemble cast. The film’s music, composed by Jakes Bejoy, and the cinematography by Arvind Kashyap and Renadive, further elevate its visual and auditory appeal. ‘Vilayath Buddha’ is set to release worldwide on November 21, 2025. Meanwhile, Sukumaran continues to expand his repertoire, with a role in SS Rajamouli’s upcoming film ‘Varanasi,’ starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, slated for a 2027 release.
-
BBC caught in crossfire of polarised political and media landscape
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), a cornerstone of the UK’s media landscape, finds itself embroiled in a heated debate over its role in an increasingly polarized political and social environment. Accusations of bias and challenges to its impartiality have placed the BBC under unprecedented scrutiny, particularly following a controversial documentary that allegedly misrepresented a speech by former US President Donald Trump. The broadcaster, funded by the public, is often used as a political football, criticized for its coverage of contentious issues ranging from climate change to Brexit. Despite these challenges, the BBC remains the most popular news source in the UK, according to media watchdog Ofcom. However, a recent YouGov poll reveals a divided public opinion, with 31% perceiving the BBC as too left-wing and 19% as too right-wing. BBC Chairman Samir Shah has defended the organization’s commitment to impartiality, emphasizing its ‘sacred job’ of upholding the truth. Yet, the BBC continues to face criticism from both ends of the political spectrum, with Conservative lawmakers accusing it of focusing excessively on liberal and urban issues, while others praise its role in countering misinformation. The BBC’s international World Service, which reaches over 318 million people weekly, remains a beacon of reliable journalism globally. However, growing distrust in traditional media and the rise of sensationalist platforms like GB News pose significant challenges to the BBC’s influence, particularly among younger audiences. As the broadcaster navigates these turbulent waters, its ability to maintain public trust and adapt to evolving media consumption habits will be critical to its future.
-
Abu Dhabi desert lights up: Free entry, family fun with night walks through laser arches
The Abu Dhabi desert has been transformed into a mesmerizing outdoor gallery with the opening of Manar Abu Dhabi, a public light art exhibition that debuted on Friday. Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the event features 22 stunning artworks crafted from lasers, mirrors, steel, glass, and fiber optics. This second edition of the exhibition, themed ‘The Light Compass,’ explores the interplay between light, land, and movement, showcasing works by 15 Emirati and international artists from 10 countries. The installations are spread across Jubail Island and cultural sites in Al Ain, offering visitors a unique blend of art and nature.
One of the highlights is ‘Gateway,’ a series of steel arches fitted with lasers by US-based artist Lachlan Turczan. The installation uses fine mist to make the light beams visible, creating shifting sheets of light along the walkway. Turczan designed the piece to encourage visitors to slow down and observe subtle changes in the environment. Another standout is ‘Whispers,’ a field of vertical fiber-optic stems by Dutch collective DRIFT that sways with the wind, creating ever-changing patterns. The collective emphasized that the artwork is driven by nature, with the landscape guiding the installation.
Interactive elements are also a key feature of the exhibition. Montreal-based collective Iregular’s ‘Public Squares’ uses cameras and sensors to create digital artworks that respond to visitors’ movements. Children were particularly drawn to this section, as the visuals changed in real time with their gestures. Argentinian artist Ezequiel Pini, known as Six N Five, presented ‘Skyward,’ a mirrored installation that reflects the surrounding mangroves and sky, with constellations appearing on the surface when visitors pause. Malaysian artist Pamela Tan’s ‘Eden’ features glass spheres atop steel stems, casting a gentle glow on the sand and nearby plants.
The exhibition also includes a striking sculpture by popular US artist KAWS, titled ‘KAWS:HOLIDAY Abu Dhabi,’ which depicts his iconic gloved character holding a moon that lights up at night. Manar Abu Dhabi will run until January 4, 2026, with free entry for all visitors, making it a must-see event for families and art enthusiasts alike.
-
Sichuan amphibious ship returns after maiden sea trial
China’s largest and most advanced amphibious assault ship, the CNS Sichuan, has successfully concluded its maiden sea trial, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s naval capabilities. The vessel, which set sail on Friday morning from the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding yard in Shanghai, returned to its home port on Sunday afternoon after a three-day voyage. During the trial, engineers meticulously tested and verified the reliability and performance of the ship’s electric, propulsion, and other critical systems, achieving the desired results. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) confirmed that follow-up tests will be conducted in accordance with the ship’s construction plan. The Sichuan, the first in the Type 076 class, boasts a displacement of over 40,000 metric tons and is equipped with an electromagnetic launch system, making it the first Chinese amphibious assault ship capable of deploying fixed-wing drones. This technology was previously seen only on the CNS Fujian aircraft carrier. Once commissioned, the Sichuan will be capable of supporting a wide range of military operations, including amphibious landings, airstrikes, and airborne missions. The PLAN currently operates four Type 075 amphibious assault ships, each with a full displacement of nearly 40,000 tons, capable of carrying multiple helicopters, landing craft, and armored vehicles.
-
Ecuadorian drug gang leader captured in Spain years after faking his death
In a significant breakthrough in the fight against organized crime, Ecuadorian authorities, in collaboration with Spanish police, apprehended Wilmer Chavarria, alias “Pipo,” one of Ecuador’s most wanted drug traffickers, in Malaga, Spain. Chavarria, the alleged leader of the notorious drug cartel Los Lobos, had faked his death in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, assumed a new identity, and relocated to Spain, where he continued to orchestrate drug shipments, order assassinations, and extort gold mines in Ecuador. President Daniel Noboa confirmed the arrest, highlighting its importance in curbing the escalating drug-related violence in the country. Los Lobos, a group with approximately 8,000 members, was recently classified as a terrorist organization by the United States due to its involvement in political assassinations and its alleged collaboration with Mexico’s Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Ecuador, once considered one of South America’s most peaceful nations, has seen a surge in violent crimes as it has become a major transit hub for cocaine produced in neighboring Colombia and Peru. Drug cartels have targeted presidential candidates, local officials, and journalists in their bid to control ports and coastal cities. Chavarria’s capture coincides with a pivotal referendum in Ecuador, where citizens are voting on constitutional amendments to allow foreign military bases in the country. President Noboa argues that this reform is essential to enhance anti-drug cooperation with international partners like the United States and intensify pressure on drug traffickers.
-
Israel says Gazans who landed in S. Africa unexpectedly had third-country approval
A group of 153 Palestinians from Gaza unexpectedly arrived in South Africa, sparking inquiries from President Cyril Ramaphosa. Israeli authorities confirmed that the individuals had received entry approval from an unnamed third country, allowing their departure from Gaza. Shimi Zuaretz, a spokesperson for COGAT, the Israeli body overseeing civil affairs in Palestinian territories, stated that the group was permitted to leave only after receiving third-country approval. Upon landing in Johannesburg, the passengers were detained on their plane for 12 hours due to the absence of Israeli departure stamps in their passports. South African border police reported that the home affairs ministry eventually allowed the group to disembark after an NGO, Gift of the Givers, offered to provide accommodation. The NGO clarified that it was unaware of who had chartered the flight or a previous one that brought 176 Gazans to South Africa on October 28. An unidentified Israeli official revealed that the organization coordinating the transfer had submitted third-country visas to COGAT for all evacuees. President Ramaphosa expressed concern, suggesting it appeared as though the individuals were being ‘flushed out.’ South Africa’s home affairs ministry confirmed that 130 of the group entered the country, while 23 continued to other destinations. Zuaretz emphasized that COGAT facilitates the departure of Gaza residents for medical treatment, dual citizens, and those with third-country visas, based solely on foreign country requests. Since the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, over 40,000 Gaza residents have been assisted in leaving. South Africa, home to sub-Saharan Africa’s largest Jewish community, has historically supported the Palestinian cause, even filing a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice in 2023.
-
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ actor James Pickens Jr reveals prostate cancer diagnosis
James Pickens Jr., renowned for his role as Dr. Richard Webber in the long-running medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ has publicly shared his prostate cancer diagnosis. In a candid interview, the actor disclosed that his family has a significant history of the disease, which influenced his proactive approach to health screenings. ‘Prostate cancer has been prevalent in my family. My father and several of his brothers battled it. I wasn’t entirely surprised when I received the diagnosis,’ Pickens Jr. told Variety. He emphasized the importance of early detection, revealing that doctors identified the cancer during a routine checkup. ‘My PSA levels had increased slightly, but we caught it at an early stage. The medical team recommended a cautious approach, given the rare variant of the cancer I have,’ he explained to The Hollywood Reporter. Pickens Jr., who has portrayed Dr. Webber across all 22 seasons of ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ reflected on the character’s evolution and its parallels to his personal journey. ‘Dr. Webber’s resilience and humanity resonate deeply with me. We’ve seen him triumph and struggle, much like life itself,’ he added. Beyond ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ Pickens Jr. has appeared in notable shows such as ‘The Conners,’ ‘Roseanne,’ and ‘The X-Files.’ His openness about his diagnosis aims to raise awareness about prostate cancer and the critical role of regular health checkups.
-
Marjorie Taylor Greene doubles down on Epstein files amid fallout with Trump
Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has intensified her campaign for the public release of all documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, despite facing sharp criticism from former President Donald Trump. Speaking on CNN’s ‘State of the Union’ on Sunday, Greene expressed her continued support for Trump but voiced strong disagreement with his efforts to suppress the Epstein files. She argued that Trump’s harsh rhetoric, including labeling her a ‘traitor,’ not only fuels political discord but also endangers her safety. ‘Words like that can radicalize people against me and put my life at risk,’ Greene told host Dana Bash. The rift between Greene and Trump has deepened in recent weeks, particularly after Greene urged the Department of Justice to disclose all Epstein-related materials. The tension escalated on Friday when Trump condemned Greene on Truth Social, calling her a ‘wacky’ and ‘ranting lunatic’ who ‘complains’ incessantly. Although Trump’s post did not explicitly mention the Epstein files, Greene asserted that their fallout stems from her push for transparency. The House is set to vote this week on the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which aims to compel the Justice Department to release all unclassified records, documents, and investigative materials tied to Epstein. Republican Representative Thomas Massie revealed that up to 100 GOP members may support the bill. Greene emphasized the need for accountability, stating, ‘The country deserves transparency, and no one should be shielded from justice, regardless of their wealth or power.’ She also called for unity in American politics, urging an end to divisive rhetoric. This marks a notable shift for Greene, who has previously been criticized for promoting conspiracy theories and inflammatory social media posts. When confronted by Bash about her past actions, Greene reiterated her apologies and highlighted her commitment to forgiveness as part of her Christian faith.
-
Keerthy Suresh is UNICEF India’s celebrity advocate for child rights
Indian actress Keerthy Suresh has been named UNICEF India’s Celebrity Advocate, a role that will see her championing the rights and well-being of children and adolescents. Known for her acclaimed performances in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema, the National Award-winning actress will focus on advancing mental health awareness and other critical child rights issues. Her appointment underscores her commitment to social change and gender equality, themes she has often explored through her film roles. UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey praised Suresh’s deep connection with audiences, stating that her influence will serve as a powerful platform to advocate for children’s rights. Suresh expressed her honor in joining UNICEF India, emphasizing the importance of nurturing care in helping children lead fulfilling lives. Meanwhile, the actress is set to star in the upcoming Telugu film ‘Revolver Rita,’ scheduled for release on November 28.