Black and African residents in Hong Kong, despite being born and raised in the city and speaking Cantonese, face racism in their everyday lives. With a small population of 3,144 out of 7.5 million, they have lodged 492 complaints of racial discrimination in the past five years. Many do not file complaints for fear of being labeled troublemakers. Africans have been settling in Hong Kong since the 1990s, often as businessmen, and some have stayed long enough to consider themselves Hongkongers. However, they are often negatively stereotyped by Chinese residents. Dr. Lisa Leung Yuk-ming of Lingnan University comments on the racial and cultural history of Hong Kong, suggesting that the lessons of being a subjugated race during the colonial era are not always heeded.

Japan quarantined all 3,711 people aboard the Diamond Princess for up to 14 days after infections were found, while infected passengers were transferred to hospitals. The outbreak had killed 490 people in mainland China and spread to numerous countries, with cases and deaths also reported outside China. Hong Kong hospital workers struck for a complete border closure, while leader Carrie Lam defended the government’s measures. China expanded treatment capacity with newly built hospitals and converted public facilities, though overcrowding persisted. Authorities organized evacuation flights from Wuhan, and health officials warned that the outbreak was still growing and called for better international data sharing. Reports also noted rising anti-Asian discrimination and concerns about disruption to the Tokyo Olympics.

Pro-democracy candidates achieved a significant victory in Hong Kong's local elections, winning 389 out of 452 district council seats. The high voter turnout of 71% reflected widespread support for the protest movement against Chinese authoritarianism. Despite this win, the pro-Beijing Hong Kong chief executive, Carrie Lam, remains in power, appointed by a committee largely controlled by mainland China. The article highlights the protesters' fears of increased repression similar to that in Xinjiang and discusses the potential responses from the Chinese government, which may either grant some demands or intensify the crackdown.

A nationwide scam exploiting Airbnb's poorly enforced rules has been uncovered, involving fake listings, reviews, and intimidation across eight cities. Despite the evidence, Airbnb has not provided detailed responses about its verification process and continues to profit from incomplete refunds. The article criticizes Airbnb's inadequate measures to prevent such scams and its reluctance to address the issue comprehensively.

Joshua Wong, a prominent young activist from Hong Kong, has been a leading figure in the pro-democracy movement, notably during the 2014 Umbrella Revolution. Despite facing political pressure, physical assaults, and international travel restrictions, Wong remains committed to advocating for universal suffrage and greater autonomy for Hong Kong. His activism has inspired a new generation of young people to engage in political action, although the movement faces significant challenges from the Chinese government. Wong's efforts have garnered international attention, but he acknowledges the difficulties in achieving democracy within a communist system.

On May 18, 2009, Sri Lanka declared the end of its 26-year civil war with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Despite the promise of peace and reconciliation, many in the north and east of the country continue to suffer from the war's aftermath. Thaya Malar's son disappeared after the war, and she suspects the Sri Lankan army's involvement. Human Rights Watch has urged the government to investigate war-time abuses. Tamil activist Elango acknowledges the LTTE's heroism and mistakes, emphasizing the need for a fair and humane system.

Abul Bajandar, known as the 'Tree Man' due to his rare skin condition, has undergone successful surgeries to remove the warts that covered his limbs. His story gained international attention, leading the Bangladeshi government to fund his treatment. Despite the medical success, the article highlights the temporary nature of the treatment and the broader socio-economic issues in Bangladesh, where many lack access to adequate healthcare. Bajandar's case is used by the government to showcase medical advancements, but it underscores the persistent poverty and inadequate healthcare faced by many in the country.

Abul Bajandar, known as the 'Tree Man' due to his rare skin condition, epidermodysplasia verruciformis, has undergone successful surgeries in Bangladesh to remove heavy warts that resembled tree branches from his limbs. The treatment, which gained attention after being reported by AFP, was provided free by the government, highlighting medical advancements and humanitarian efforts in the country. Despite the success, the warts are likely to regrow, and Bajandar's case is an exception in a nation still grappling with poverty, inadequate medical care, and various threats including natural disasters and extremism.

Joshua Wong, a key figure in Hong Kong's Umbrella Revolution, continues to advocate for democracy despite facing political pressure and physical assaults. Beginning his activism at 14 with the founding of Scholarism, Wong played a significant role in the pro-democracy protests against the Beijing government. His commitment to the cause has led to international recognition and personal risks, including being denied entry to Malaysia and experiencing a physical attack. Wong's vision for Hong Kong includes a referendum system and greater autonomy, and he is prepared to face imprisonment for his beliefs. The article highlights the generational support for the movement and Wong's influence on younger activists.

Since the legalization of prostitution in Bangladesh in 2000, despite being discouraged and the prevalence of child prostitution, sex workers have faced severe abuse. In response, they have started to organize, forming groups like the Prostitute Association of Faridpur to protect themselves and demand equal rights. Islamic conservatives have attacked such workers, with an incident in 2010 where a brothel was burned, leaving tenants destitute. Progress for sex workers' rights is slow, but they have achieved the right to a proper burial in a cemetery.