WORLD

Georgia's political situation continues to unravel as outgoing President Salome Zurabishvili refused to step down, challenging the legitimacy of her successor, Mikheil Kavelashvili, on Monday. Only time will tell if Tbilisi circles Moscow or charts a new orbit alongside the EU.

'Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion' programmes face growing criticism and revision in 2024 due to political pressures and limited measurable outcomes. Advocates stress the need for transparency, equity-focused approaches, and alignment with business goals to ensure their future relevance and effectiveness.

The fall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024 marked the end of Syria's Captagon trade, a major source of regime revenue, creating both challenges for the country's economic recovery and opportunities for regional stability.

Despite a ceasefire brokered by the U.S. in November 2024, Israeli forces have repeatedly violated the truce with Hezbollah through shelling, airstrikes, and demolitions, while Hezbollah grapples with regional shifts, the collapse of Assad’s regime, and diminishing influence, exacerbating Lebanon's diplomatic and cultural challenges.

Fairouz, the "Jewel of Lebanon," has captivated the Arab world for over seven decades with her timeless music that blends traditional Arabic melodies with modern elements, addressing themes of love, nostalgia, and patriotism, while uniting listeners across the Levant, Palestine, and the broader MENA region.