In just 40 years since joining UNESCO, the People's Republic already ranks first in terms of the number of “intangible cultural heritage” sites, with 60 recognised sites. Hundreds of new museums open every year across the country, and in 2024 alone, 179,000 new operators were hired. Chinese “confidence in culture” is a cornerstone of Xi Jinping's soft power. And with the United States' withdrawal from UNESCO, its influence on global cultural policies is set to grow even further.

The Mongolian government – which has always balanced between China and Russia, its two large neighbours – has in recent months entered into “strategic partnership” agreements with each of the major Western economies.  Under the presidency of Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, Mongolia is seeking to use international relations as a way out of economic and social stagnation.

Lahore holds the sad record of being the most polluted city in the world. The health of 127 million inhabitants is at risk. Hospitals are overwhelmed with respiratory diseases, with children most at risk. Experts say it is ‘no longer’ just a ‘seasonal’ problem. Drastic and coordinated action is needed, but the government is failing to act.

The nine days of dawn Masses in preparation for Christmas have begun in Philippine communities around the world. Speaking about the Church, Cardinal Advincula said that, “Everyone has a place here”; she is “not for the perfect but for all seekers.” The prelate also offered a special thought for those returning to the Church after a long time and for those burdened by doubts or wounds.

Catholic charities are working to prevent child marriage through development and the fight against superstitions, helping everyone, regardless of religious affiliation. “We focus on community development, human dignity, and empowerment,” said Father Birendra Tete.

Civil society groups and activists are echoing a call from various segments of Sri Lankan society to renegotiate the agreement with the International Monetary Fund in light of the damage caused by climate change. The focus is on the Extended Fund Facility programme whose austerity measures are a further obstacle to economic revival. The demand is to put people first in restructuring the economy. Meanwhile, the number of people killed and affected by the cyclone continues to rise.