Peace

International human rights organisations have urged Dhaka to adopt urgent measures to curb hate speech, bolster protections for journalists, and prosecute individuals involved in mob violence.

The accord, signed at Singha Durbar on Wednesday, comes three months after mass protests shook the country.

As protests grow, human rights defenders are calling on Pakistan’s new administration to take immediate steps.

Those calling for reform are joined by civil society voices demanding international scrutiny. Some urge consumers abroad to avoid Burmese jade, pointing to its role in funding violence.

As the 38-day shutdown continues, both sides face mounting pressure. Unless the Torkham crossing reopens soon, the economic and human costs risk becoming permanent scars on bilateral trade.

Most of the parties represented in the now-dissolved House of Representatives voiced their commitment to proceed with the polls, signalling a shared desire for political renewal.

As thousands of Afghans are loaded onto trucks for forced return, the crisis reflects not just the failure of diplomacy but also the erosion of trust between two interdependent nations. Unless talks resume on a more equal footing, analysts warn, South Asia may face yet another cycle of displacement, resentment and instability.

Provincial leaders in Nepal have accused the interim government of Prime Minister Sushila Karki of sidelining them with a “unilateral” budget freeze, crippling preparations for crucial March elections.