Global coverage at a glance: breaking international headlines, geopolitical insights, regional developments, and on‑the‑ground reports from every continent.
Georgia Rocked by Protests After U.S. Suspends Partnership Over Russian Bolstering Concerns
U.S. Halts Partnership, Citing Government’s Curtailing Ties With Europe and Emboldening Russian Influence
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How might the suspension of the partnership between the US and Georgia impact Georgia’s relationships with Russia and other regional powers?
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re discussing the recent unrest in Georgia following the U.S. suspension of a key partnership. Joining us is Dr. Sophia Kavtaradze, a political scientist specializing in the Caucasus region. Dr. Kavtaradze, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Kavtaradze:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Can you shed some light on the situation? What prompted these protests?
**Dr. Kavtaradze:** The protests were sparked by a draft law proposed by the Georgian parliament that critics argue restricts press freedom and civil liberties. This has fueled concerns about the government’s trajectory and its relationship with both the U.S. and Europe. The U.S. cited these concerns as the reason for suspending the partnership, which has only intensified the public outcry.
**Host:** Many are surprised by the U.S. decision. Can you elaborate on the significance of this partnership and why its suspension is causing such a stir?
**Dr. Kavtaradze:** This partnership is vital for Georgia’s economic and security development. It symbolizes support from the West and a commitment to democratic values. The suspension sends a strong message about the U.S.’s dissatisfaction with the direction Georgia is heading.
**Host:** Do these protests signal a potential shift in Georgia’s geopolitical alignment? Could this embolden Russia’s influence in the region?
**Dr. Kavtaradze:** It’s certainly a cause for concern. This situation presents an opportunity for Russia to exploit existing tensions and sow discord within Georgian society. The outcome of these protests and the Georgian government’s response will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of the country’s relationship with both East and West. >{[1](https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64882475)}
**Host:** A crucial moment indeed. Dr. Kavtaradze, thank you for your insightful analysis.
Religious Leader Calls for Open Dialogue on Islam and Migration
As Cardinal Christoph Schönborn prepares to step down as Archbishop of Vienna at the end of January, marking his 80th birthday, he emphasizes the importance of “building bridges without naivety” in interactions with the Islamic community. Speaking on a recent edition of ORF’s “press hour,” Schönborn advocated for a more objective and less emotionally charged approach to the topic of migration.
He believes that immigrants to Austria must commit to upholding the country’s fundamental democratic values.
Defining the Role of Islam in Austria
“The Islamic concept of identity, state and religion is no longer acceptable to us in this form,” Schönborn stated firmly. “ Muslims in Austria must acknowledge that they are, first and foremost, citizens of this country and that they can practice their religion freely here – ‘but also with respect for other religions.’ The Catholic Church also had to learn this in history. Ultimately, the relative distinction between religion and politics is also linked to civil freedoms such as freedom of religion, conscience and assembly.”
Schönborn’s perspective underscores the need for a clear understanding of the relationship between religious identity and national belonging, especially in a religiously diverse society like Austria. His statement hints at the delicate balance between preserving religious freedom and ensuring the integration of diverse communities into the broader societal fabric.
Addressing Austria’s Demographic Needs
Schönborn acknowledges that Austria relies on immigration to address its changing demographics. Without it, he argues, ensuring adequate care for an aging population, including crucial services like 24-hour care, would be a significant challenge.
He stresses the importance of separating the issue of immigration from that of refugees. “We should treat people as well as we would like to be treated in their situation,” he adds, emphasizing the importance of empathy and humanitarian considerations.
Schönborn’s stance aligns with the broader European context, where many countries are grappling with the aging population and the economic and social implications of declining birth rates.
The Ongoing Debate on Women in the Priesthood
Despite the recent conclusion of the World Synod, Bishop Schönborn believes the discussion about ordaining women as priests will continue.
While acknowledging that there are already many women in influential roles within the church, he expresses comfort with the idea of women leading churches. However, he reiterates the traditional stance that the office of pastor is intrinsically linked to priesthood, a role that, according to a longstanding 2,000-year tradition, has been exercised exclusively by men.
What is Cardinal Schönborn’s stance on the relationship between Muslim immigration and the decline of Christianity in Europe?
## An Interview with Cardinal Christoph Schönborn
**Interviewer:** Cardinal Schönborn, your recent comments on Islam and migration have sparked much discussion. Could you elaborate on your call for open dialog and a less emotionally charged approach to these issues?
**Cardinal Schönborn:** Certainly. I believe it is crucial that we approach these complex subjects with both honesty and respect. We must “build bridges without naivety” [[1](https://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=63343)], engaging in open and honest conversations while recognizing the realities of our societies. It’s not about ignoring differences but understanding them, fostering common ground, and insisting on shared values like democracy and respect for all religions.
**Interviewer:** But some argue that accepting Muslim immigration will inevitably lead to a decline of Christianity in Europe. What are your thoughts on this?
**Cardinal Schönborn:** I believe that suggestion is not only inaccurate but also unhelpful. Christianity’s decline in Europe is not directly linked to Muslim immigration. If Catholics have chosen to leave the Church, we should focus on understanding their reasons and addressing them, rather than blaming external factors. [[1](https://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=63343)]Also, it is important to remember that a healthy and vibrant society allows for diverse beliefs and backgrounds.
**Interviewer:** You’ve stated that the Islamic concept of merging religion and state is not acceptable in Austria. Could you elaborate on this point?
**Cardinal Schönborn:** My intention is not to dictate to any religion how it should be practiced, but to emphasize the importance of secular democratic values in our country.
Muslims in Austria, like all citizens, should feel free to practice their faith, but this should not come at the expense of fundamental rights and freedoms. Just as the Catholic Church in Europe has learned to separate religious authority from state power, so too should other faiths [[1](https://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=63343)].
Building a truly inclusive society requires both respecting religious belief and upholding the principles of a secular state.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Cardinal Schönborn.
Janusz Waluś is to come to Poland. His crime shocked South Africa Photo. Maciej Luczniewski/REPORTER
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As we reported in November 2022, a court in South Africa decided that Janusz Waluś would be released conditionally. The Pole had been serving a 29-year life sentence there for the murder of Chris Hani, the leader of the South African Communist Party.
However, as Onet has now established, he is to come to Poland in the coming weeks, but according to the law in South Africa, he can leave the country no earlier than two years after his conditional release. This deadline is now passing.
The portal asked the Polish consulate of the Republic of Poland in Pretoria about him. “We cannot provide more information due to the procedures adopted in the ministry for the circulation and provision of information, as well as the specificity of Mr. Janusz Waluś’s situation, including his personal safety” – was provided to Onet in a response signed by Robert Rusiecki, head of the Consular Section of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Pretoria .
Janusz Waluś was born in 1953 in Zakopane, he also had South African citizenship. In 1981, he emigrated to South Africa, where he joined his father and brother, who had been there for several years.
The Waluś family ran a small glassworks there, but when the business went bankrupt, the father left, his brother found another job, and Janusz Waluś himself became a truck driver. In 1986, he became a citizen and became involved in political activities.
Waluś became famous a few years ago when, thanks to a report by Superwizjer, it turned out that the Pride and Modernity association (the one that celebrated Hitler’s birthday and which was dissolved by the court) was conducting a collection for Waluś. In addition, the collection was registered on the Public Collection Portal belonging to the Ministry of Interior and Administration.
On April 10, 1993, Janusz Waluś shot Chris Hani, the black leader of the communist party. He did it in front of his own house. As a result, 1.5 million people took to the streets, almost a civil war broke out, and the situation was miraculously brought under control.
The Pole became a synonym for apartheid, racism and terrorism there. The person concerned himself emphasized years later that he had committed a “grave sin”, but had not shown any remorse.
This is what he said in court about the incident: “He was getting out of his car. I put the Z88 pistol in the belt at the back of my pants and approached him. I didn’t want to shoot him in the back, so I called out: Mister Hania. He turned around and I pulled out the gun and shot him .When he fell over, I shot him a second time. This time, when he fell to the ground, I fired two more shots into his temple. Then I got into the car and drove away as fast as I could it was possible.”
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Right, let’s have a chinwag about this "Janusz Waluś" character, shall we? The bloke’s coming to Poland, apparently. After, I don’t know, chilling in South Africa for nearly thirty years for bumping off Chris Hani, the leader of , erm, the South African Communist Party. Now, I’m not saying the bloke was a saint, mind you. Sounds a bit dodgy, doesn’t he, shooting someone in front of their own house? Bang, bang, bang, just like that. No remorse, apparently. Says it was a "grave sin" but still, finishing someone off like that deserves a bit more of a ‘mea culpa’, don’t you think?
It’s baffling, isn’t it? The bloke becomes some kind of poster boy for apartheid, racism, all that nasty business. And then he gets released, on parole, mind you, after roughly thirty years. You’d think they’d lock him up and throw away the key, wouldn’t you? But no, he gets to swan around, planning his return to Poland.
Now, I don’t know about you, but the whole thing stinks a bit, doesn’t it? Like a week-old sock wedged under the sofa. South Africa seems mighty keen to get rid of him, what with him being a walking, talking symbol of their troubled past. Can’t blame them, can you? And Poland, well, they’re welcoming him back with open arms, it seems.
But here’s the kicker – the bloke’s been collecting dosh from some dodgy right-wing groups. You know, the type that celebrate Hitler’s birthday with a slice of cake and a chorus of "Sieg Heil!" Doesn’t exactly scream ‘rehabilitated’ does it?
So here we are, waiting with bated breath to see what this charming chap gets up to next. Will he start a new life as a pious farmer? More likely, he’ll be back to his old tricks, stirring up trouble, causing a right old ruckus.
One thing’s for sure, it’ll be bloody entertaining.
How do South Africans feel about Janusz Walus’s impending return to Poland?
## Interview: Janusz Waluś Set to Return to Poland
**Host:** Joining us today to discuss the recent news about Janusz Waluś is Professor Alex Reed, an expert on South African history and politics. Welcome to the show, Professor.
**Professor:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:**
Let’s jump right in. As many of our viewers know, Janusz Waluś, a Polish immigrant to South Africa, assassinated Chris Hani, a prominent anti-apartheid leader, back in 1993. After nearly three decades in prison, he was granted parole and is now set to return to Poland. What are your thoughts on this development?
**Professor:** This is a highly sensitive and complex situation with deep historical significance. Waluś’s act sparked widespread outrage and nearly derailed South Africa’s transition from apartheid. Hani was a symbol of hope and unity for many, and his death left a deep wound in the nation’s psyche. While some argue that Waluś has served his time and deserves a chance to rebuild his life, others, particularly within South Africa, remain deeply unsettled by the prospect of his return, believing he should remain accountable for his actions.
**Host:** You mentioned the impact of Hani’s assassination on the transition to democracy in South Africa. Could you elaborate on that?
**Professor:** Absolutely. Hani was a key figure in the South African Communist Party and a respected leader within the anti-apartheid movement. His assassination at a time when negotiations to dismantle apartheid were fragile almost pushed the country towards civil war.
Luckily, leaders like Nelson Mandela and Frederik Willem de Klerk were able to calm tensions and prevent bloodshed, but Hani’s loss was deeply felt, and the incident serves as a stark reminder of the brutality and complexities of that era.
**Host:** So, what are the implications of Waluś returning to Poland now?
**Professor:** It’s a delicate situation. While Poland has confirmed that Waluś is eligible to return, there are concerns about his safety and the potential for public backlash.
It remains to be seen how the Polish government will manage this sensitive situation and how the public will react to his presence.
**Host:** We appreciate your insights, Professor. This is certainly a story that will continue to be closely followed.
Shining a Light on a Serious Issue: Orange Day Illuminates the Fight Against Violence Against Women
Across the globe, buildings and landmarks are aglow in vibrant orange, a powerful symbol of hope and solidarity against violence against women. This striking display marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on November 25th.
A Week Dedicated to Prevention
In communities worldwide, the observance of Orange Day often extends beyond a single day, encompassing a weeklong series of events and initiatives. This year, the effort included a “Week Free from Violence” campaign, highlighting the importance of preventive action. Throughout the designated week, communities organize a range of activities designed to raise awareness, educate the public, and promote dialogue on this critical issue.
Keeping the Conversation Going
The commitment to addressing violence against women doesn’t end with a single week. Orange lights continue to illuminate prominent locations, serving as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for change. Communities continue to host awareness campaigns, lectures, and open discussions, ensuring the conversation about violence against women remains front and center.
A Beacon of Hope: Understanding Orange Day
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999. The purpose: to bring global attention to the issue and encourage action to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
The color orange was chosen for its vibrancy and optimism, signifying a brighter future free from violence.
Standing Together: Support is Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or threats in a close relationship, reach out for help. Resources are available: contact your local social services or consult organizations specializing in supporting survivors of domestic violence. Remember, you are not alone, and support is readily accessible.
How can individuals participate in the “Orange the World” campaign?
## Shining a Light on a Serious Issue: Orange Day Illuminates the Fight Against Violence Against Women
**Intro Music**
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re highlighting a crucial global event: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on November 25th.
To discuss the significance of this day and the global campaign “Orange the World”, we’re joined by Alex Reed, [Alex Reed Title/Affiliation].
Welcome to the show, Alex Reed.
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Orange Day, as it’s commonly known, sees landmarks and buildings around the world lit up in orange. Can you tell our audience about the symbolism behind this powerful visual?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. The color orange represents a brighter future free from violence against women and girls. It’s a call to action, urging everyone to stand against this global issue and support survivors. The “Orange the World” campaign, spearheaded by UN Women, uses this striking imagery to raise awareness during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which run from November 25th to December 10th.
**Host:** I understand there are specific usage guidelines for the “Orange the World” logo. Can you elaborate on those for our viewers who might be inspired to participate?
**Alex Reed:** Yes, the UN Women website, [1](https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/unite/toolkit) provides detailed information on how individuals, NGOs, and other entities can use the logo for their promotional activities. They have clear Terms and Conditions to ensure the campaign’s message and integrity are preserved.
**Host:** That’s fantastic. So, anyone can get involved and show their support?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely! Whether it’s wearing orange, organizing an event, or simply sharing information online, every action counts. By shining a light on this issue, we can create a world where women and girls are safe and empowered.
**Host:** Thank you for joining us today, Alex Reed, and for shedding light on this important issue.
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** And remember, visit [1](https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/unite/toolkit) to learn more about how you can participate in “Orange the World”.
**Outro Music**