Society

In the 2026 Global Soft Power Index, the country – which until a few years ago was confined to the stereotypes of the ‘post-Soviet space’ – has risen to 82nd place out of 193 countries. From pop stars who, breaking free from folkloric clichés, are crossing borders, to the Lonely Planet guide which has included Kazakhstan in its ‘Best in Travel 2025’ selection.

The city council’s decision comes after a social media storm over the publication of price lists for cremations at Buddhist temples, with fees that were unaffordable for the less well-off. An initiative to ensure dignity for all.

An inappropriate remark by a singer in support of a film now playing in Beijing has caused a storm that has hit her foundation, resulting in plummeting donations. Distrust by the Chinese public now seems to extend to endorsements as well as charity as a whole.

In recent years, the local authorities have stepped up their efforts to integrate this ethnic group, which numbers around 1,200 families: now that they have been issued with identity documents, the children are attending school and many members of the community are working for the city’s cleaning and gardening companies.

In Kashmir and Punjab, two films bring some controversial moments in Indian history back into the spotlight. The Modi government is struggling to come to terms with the past and the still open wounds of domestic conflicts.

The latest survey by the Pew Research Center shows a strong polarisation in Asia and Asian societies. While territorial disputes are a major source of fear, Beijing is seen more positively among middle- and low-income countries.

The death toll from the unrest triggered by overcrowding has risen to at least 29 (including seven officers) with over a hundred injured. Prisoners were transferred and attacked. Mothers are demanding the return of the bodies and criticising the authorities for arresting their sons “on false charges”. Behind the prison crisis lies a system that rewards police officers and officials based on the number of arrests made.

Various moments of reflection marked the end of the month dedicated to soldiers fallen in the civil war. The initiative, wanted by president Rajapakse, found favour in the population, even if many urge the government to remember that “many of the victims of this senseless war are civilians”.