Rosalia Rerek Sogen, 30, from the diocese of Larantuka, was shot in an attack by a group of militiamen along with other colleagues and health workers. The rebels consider them to be ‘undercover soldiers’ in the Yahukimo region, where tension with the army has skyrocketed. Dozens of people have been evacuated to Jayapura for fear of possible similar actions.

After ten years, Indonesia is to lift the ban on emigration to the Gulf, ostensibly because of better protections for migrants. But NGOs lament that economic interests are prioritised over workers’ protection. Despite a huge workforce, many young Indonesians remain unemployed and poorly educated.

At the centre of the controversy is a pre-independence building dedicated to the deity Dewi Sri Pathra Kaliamma Amma that is more than 130 years old. A mosque will be built in its place, while the temple will be ‘transferred’ to a yet unknown location. The prime minister calls for calm and denies the government's involvement in the decision.

Tensions in the south and former President Duterte’s trial are cause for concern. The country, the prelate writes, "is in a time of crisis, conflict and confusion". He urges the faithful to recite a particular invocation to God at Mass starting this weekend. The archbishop of Davao also calls for prayer.

A report by Fortify Rights and the Social Equality Promotion Foundation denounces the extent of the phenomenon (1 in 6 Thai women report having been a victim) but also the prejudices that prevent it from being combated. ‘Laws are not enough, it is also necessary to guarantee access to their tools’.

The National Assembly of Laos has completed its examination of the new draft constitution, which aims to strengthen local administrations, promote a self-sufficient economy, and strengthen the role of the People’s Prosecution Office in legal proceedings. Among the novelties, there is also the explicit recognition of the Laotian diaspora as an integral part of the nation.