Every year, tens of thousands of people are reported missing, yet there is no official data on how many are Jōhatsu, people who choose to voluntarily sever all ties with their former lives. Debts, social pressures, and domestic violence drive some to turn to yonige-ya, agencies that help people relocate without leaving a trace, while families are left in a state of suspended uncertainty.
The final leg of his journey in Latin America, a region where he once lived as a missionary and as the bishop of Chiclayo, brings a poignant reflection. “Today I understand how much of this land remains with me,” he said. In his first address to the authorities, he urged them to listen with patience to those who “are far away”. He also called for Peruvian women to live free from "violence" and "exploitation." Today, he is set to meet with bishops and young people.
Arbitrary arrests and secret detentions key tools of Assad’s repression. Hundreds of journalists have been killed or are missing, and nearly 1,400 have been arrested. The challenge facing activist NGOs is to transform the archives documenting these acts of repression into evidence that can be used in legal proceedings.
Bishops from various countries across the continent and from Australia discuss the challenges faced, as well as the role of migrant communities in evangelisation. Superior General Fr Chiarello: “Let us move beyond the narrative of fear”. A Scalabrinian community will soon be established in East Timor too, to provide support in migrants’ countries of origin as well.
Today’s headlines: Pakistan, ambush on police vehicles in the north-west: 10 officers and 18 militants killed; Xi Jinping: resolving the Taiwan issue is an “unwavering historic mission”; Tamil Nadu public library under fire for allegedly purchasing hundreds of AI-generated books; Israeli attack on Nasser Hospital in Gaza, at least six casualties.
Fears are growing amongst those who believe the Shia movement is seeking to establish a foothold in Maronite territories. Massive purchases of property, via frontmen, are being made to distort the demographics and political influence of the area. The Patriarchate believes that certain waves of these purchases appear to be part of a deliberate strategy.
The blaze broke out in a remote area of Arunachal Pradesh, near the India-China border. The cause of the fire, which reportedly started in a kitchen, remains unknown. The husband is currently missing. The local Church is responding to the emergency, amid concerns regarding safety standards.
In its first season, the China-Europe Arctic Express has transported more than 14,000 containers via the Northern Sea Route, but variable transit times raise questions about the commercial viability of the connection. Furthermore, the route remains dependent on Russian authorisations and services.
During his meeting with Kirill, he discussed “issues in inter-Orthodox relations and possible solutions”. Among the topics was the anniversary of the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan in 2030. Against the backdrop of the war between Russia and Ukraine. On 30 November in Istanbul, the synod of the four Orthodox primates.
Activists and the UN are urging Phnom Penh to release the environmentalists on the eve of the summit, scheduled for 13–17. Among the heads of state attending is President Macron. The government aims to promote Khmer culture and erase the stigma associated with centres involved in online scams and human trafficking.
The former prime minister has left prison following a royal pardon, but the decision has reignited controversy over the fight against corruption and prompted the resignation of Transport Minister Anthony Loke. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, without directly naming his predecessor, took to social media to highlight Islamic teachings on equality before the law.
Church and civil authorities, along with a Vatican delegation, are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Commission for Interreligious Dialogue and Ecumenism. As the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate approaches, it remains highly relevant. Cardinal Coutts describes it as the foundation for a “major shift” in how the Church engages with other religions.
This is Leo XIV’s final day in Argentina. During a vigil with a million young people, he said: “stand firm before idols.” As Francis said, “everyone, everyone, everyone!” Leo reiterated that, “No one has fallen so low that Christ cannot raise them up.” This morning, the pontiff visited a prison in Buenos Aires. In the afternoon, he flew to Lima and "his" Peru.
Her death occurred in late October but only came to light in the last few days. She had been arrested at just 14 years old on the pretext of “illegally gathering to disturb social order.” The authorities labelled her as “not re-educated” following two years of a “training programme” spent in a prison cell, where she prayed.
A study reveals that a sharp rise in construction along Nepal’s rivers, up 78 per cent since 2016, is threatening entire communities. Indigenous groups are often at the greatest risk, while experts warn that land-use planning and mapping remain inadequate.
The practice of wearing a costume depicting a character from manga, video games or films is now widespread amongst young Chinese people. And it often happens that they find themselves in front of churches to take their photos. An AsiaNews source living in China describes the reactions of the Christian community.
She was eight months old when the atomic bomb destroyed her city. Ten years later, she met the co-pilot of the Enola Gay and realised she no longer wanted revenge. In Milan, she told her story to over 300 young people from Sant’Egidio: “You must know what happened, so that it never happens again”.
Subscribe to the newsletter to receive verified news, analysis and insights from Asian countries every week.
Subscribeto the newsletter
