Death penalty around the world

Amnesty International reports that at least 579 people were put to death in 18 countries in 2021, with three countries – Iran, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia – accounting for 80% of all reported executions. The global trend remains towards abolition, with 108 countries having formally abolished the death penalty for all crimes by the end of 2021. However, Amnesty warns that the recorded increase in executions in 2021 should act as a warning that pressure to abolish the death penalty must continue.

China diplomatic offensive lays down new challenge for US

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s diplomatic efforts in Ukraine are not expected to result in breakthroughs, but fears are growing in Washington that China’s actions may increase its credibility on the world stage. Experts believe that Xi is more interested in being seen as a peacemaker and changing the narrative, rather than actually attaining peace in Ukraine. However, China’s diplomatic efforts could still have a marginal impact, especially in developing nations where there is less enthusiasm for preserving an “international rules-based order.”

Petrol prices mostly increased by 3 cents after assassination of Iran top general

Petrol pump prices have increased by three cents a litre in the…