USCIRF Commissioner Maureen Ferguson civil society groups are often the first to expose religious freedom violations

In a new crackdown on anti-social behavior, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper will introduce "respect orders" to tackle hooligans causing havoc in local communities, reminiscent of Tony Blair's Respect Agenda. The police will be granted powers to ban troublemakers from town centres and public spaces, as well as seize vehicles associated with anti-social behavior like off-road bikes and e-scooters. Cooper's initiative aims to empower the law-abiding majority and eradicate the scourge of anti-social behavior, echoing Blair's...

Your support helps The Independent cover important stories, from reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech. By donating, you enable journalists to report on critical issues and provide unbiased coverage accessible to all. A new poll shows public support for a commission on end-of-life care in the UK before a debate on assisted dying, with former PM Gordon Brown backing the push for improved palliative care. Full Article

Ian Hislop criticized Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby for attending a gala just one day after resigning over an abuse scandal in the Church of England involving John Smyth. Hislop called it "jaw-dropping" and was unimpressed by Welby's presence at the event, telling him it was "lovely" that he had resigned. Hislop also condemned gala attendees for praising Welby's resignation, stating they were too quick to forgive each other and not focused enough on seeking...

British backpacker Simone White from Kent died after suspected methanol poisoning in Laos, becoming the fifth tourist to pass away in the Vang Vieng area. Four other individuals, including an Australian, American, and two Danes, also died from the incident. Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the death of 19-year-old Bianca Jones and stated that other travelers were hospitalized due to consuming contaminated alcoholic drinks. Full Article

Empro, a company in Dendermonde's Hooveld industrial estate, is renovating to address odor complaints from residents. Spokesperson Leen De Jonghe anticipates permit approval for the construction of a new purification building in spring 2025, aiming to improve operations and reduce unpleasant smells for the local community. The company plans to begin construction in the spring, with the goal of completing the new building by fall, including changes to reduce odors and noise for nearby residents....

Former deputy prime minister John Prescott has passed away at 86 after battling Alzheimer’s, his family announced. A key figure in Tony Blair’s New Labour project, he served as deputy prime minister for a decade and was known for mediating between Blair and Gordon Brown. Despite his fiery temperament, he was praised for his peacemaking abilities and efforts to combat climate change. Full Article