OWSA Contributor

The commission called for enforcement of the existing rule mandating 33 per cent women’s representation in political parties under the Representation of the People Order. It also proposed institutional reforms within parties to address corruption and create enabling environments for women.

Despite their marginal impact, many of these countries could face tariff rates as high as 50 per cent, such as Lesotho, while Cameroon could face 11 per cent.

The text affirms national sovereignty in public health decisions. It states explicitly that nothing in the agreement gives WHO the authority to mandate health measures such as lockdowns, vaccination campaigns, or border closures.

As both sides prepare for Deputy Prime Minister Dar’s visit later this month, expectations are rising for further breakthroughs – not only in diplomatic symbolism but in real policy shifts that could redefine South Asia’s often turbulent regional dynamics.

The United Nations has acknowledged that slavery and the transatlantic slave trade were crimes against humanity and has called for remedial action.

As per the newly ratified amendment to the Immigration Act, travellers coming to Maldives via Israeli passports will not be allowed entry. However, Israeli passport holders can also enter the country if they have dual citizenship, and travel through passports from another country.

Sri Lanka’s involvement in the regional initiative comes amid growing environmental concern about the country's increasing plastic waste. Like many nations in Asia, Sri Lanka has seen a surge in single-use plastics and limited infrastructure to manage them.

The Afghan caretaker government is working to assist the sudden influx of returnees. Local officials in Nangarhar and Kunar provinces have been coordinating transportation to help families return to their hometowns.