Europe United Kingdom The Labour Government is set to close down migrant hotels, moving residents to former military barracks; the new policy follows recent criticism on PM Starmer's immigration policies after new official figures showed asylum claims hitting a record high
Asia Malaysia Following the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina amid bullying allegations, the Malaysian Media Council is demanding better journalist safety after unaccredited individuals disrupted a press conference, creating safety risks for reporters covering the case
America Costa Rica A court in Costa Rica has blocked an increase in visitor quotas at Corcovado National Park, ruling the measure lacked scientific backing and violated environmental protections for one of the world's most biodiverse areas
Europe Slovakia A ban on all open fires, including the use of official firepits, the burning of bushes and trees, and smoking, is in effect in the forests of Bratislava this week and until further notice, due to high risk fires
Africa Tanzania First rules for Direct-to-Mobile D2M satellite services have been issued by Communications Regulatory Authority; the new framework allows satellite operators and mobile companies to work together for direct satellite-smartphones connectivity in Tanzania
Asia Cambodia The restoration of a 27-meter-long enclosure at Ta Prohm Temple is complete: the six-month project, a collaboration between the Apsara National Authority and the Archaeological Survey of India, repaired damage caused by aging and plant roots
Europe Spain Latest speed control campaign by the General Directorate of Traffic DGT took place from on 4-10 August: at 2.793 checkpoints, with 1.021.303 vehicles transiting, 68.662 drivers (6.7%) were reported for traveling at a speed exceeding the limit
Asia Turkey National Action Plan on Combating Violence Against Women 2026-2030 is at final stage of preparation; to confront this critical issue, Turkey has capitalized on achievements and international experience with a scientific basis and a participatory approach
Asia Laos Mimee Phommaly, a 27-year-old woman with a degree in agriculture, is transforming in Luang Prabang farming: her Khamphet Farm cultivates over 25 types of fruit, actively challenging gender stereotypes in farming and empowering community by providing jobs
Asia Indonesia 80th Independence Day was celebrated with nationwide festivities on 17 August; the grand ceremony in Jakarta, led by President Prabowo, with a historic flag parade, cultural performances and fireworks, marked the milestone with massive public celebration
Asia Bhutan The King of Bhutan paid a historic first state visit to Vietnam, a milestone in the countries' relationship since diplomatic relations were established in 2012; The visit aims to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including trade and tourism
Asia United Arab Emirates Fly JetPets, a licensed private aviation travel service provider based in Dubai, is now offering a private and shared flight model for pets and their owners on global private jet routes, in response to a booming market projected to enlarge further
America United States Over 6.000 international student visas have been revoked right before start of academic year because of overstay or violations of US law, the "vast majority" reportedly being assault, driving under the influence of drugs, burglary, "support for terrorism"
Asia Mongolia The 390th birthday of Undur Gegeen Zanabazar, a revered spiritual leader and artist has been commemorated at the Zanabazar Museum that houses his masterpieces: sculptures, thangkas, metal works blend traditional Buddhist iconography and Mongolian identity