rights advocates

The US State Department will make a visa bond program permanent, requiring applicants from 50 countries, mostly in Africa, to post bonds of up to $20,000 for B1 and B2 visas to reduce overstays. Critics argue the policy deters legitimate travel, while officials defend it as necessary for national security.

Malaysia has halted refugee registration with the UN refugee agency to implement a biometric identification system, affecting over 215,000 displaced people. Rights advocates warn this freeze could leave new asylum seekers without proof of their need for protection in a country that does not grant them legal status.

A pastor has been sentenced to death by hanging for killing his daughter, Deborah, in Cross River State, where witchcraft allegations continue to lead to the persecution of vulnerable groups including children, women, and persons with disabilities.

The Russian State Duma has passed 'Civic Death' bills that restrict exiled critics from accessing banking and consular services, with rights advocates warning the legislation extends the government's ability to punish dissent beyond its borders.

A pastor of a prominent underground church detained in China in October has been released, according to rights advocates. The release occurred weeks after Trump requested his freedom.

Rights advocates reported that an underground prominent pastor was released from prison in China weeks after Trump requested his release. The pastor's release is linked to Trump's intervention, according to the advocates.

Jakarta has launched a police-military campaign to combat violent street crime, particularly motorbike muggings, which has been welcomed by residents but raised concerns from rights advocates about the military's role and historical issues of extrajudicial killings.

At least six Russian political prisoners have died in custody this year, according to rights advocates. The article highlights efforts to preserve the memory of these individuals.

Malaysian police arrested 51 men during a drug raid at a luxury Kuala Lumpur hotel, labeling the event a 'gay party' with 'immoral activities.' The terminology has sparked criticism from lawyers and rights advocates, who argue it stigmatizes LGBTQ people and prejudices suspects.

South American migrants deported to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) report facing pressure to return home. Rights advocates accuse the Trump administration of using third-country deportations to intimidate asylum seekers.

The U.S. Senate vote on an arms sale to Israel revealed significant opposition, with 40 out of 47 Democratic senators blocking military bulldozers. Rights advocates described the outcome as a 'historic shift' in U.S. support for Israel.