Zenica miners are protesting to demand the payment of their January and February wages. In Sarajevo, a commemoration and funeral are being held for poet, writer, and screenwriter Abdulah Sidran. An orange warning has been issued in Herzegovina due to strong winds.

Germany has significantly improved its approach to welcoming and integrating migrants, driven by a labor shortage and an aging population. Despite these efforts, the core challenges of acceptance and integration remain. The article highlights personal stories of Afghan and Bosnian refugees, illustrating the difficulties they face and the progress made in integration programs, particularly in education and language acquisition. The political landscape is divided, with some parties advocating for stricter asylum rules while others emphasize the need for skilled migrants. The sentiment towards migrants varies, with some experiencing discrimination and others finding support and solidarity.

The past year was marked by the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, a new conflict between Israel and Hamas, climate disasters, and record high temperatures. Developments in artificial intelligence and Titan were also notable.

An Israeli air strike in Syria killed Razi Mousavi, a top commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, leading to threats of retaliation from Tehran. The attack occurred near Damascus, targeting a location associated with Hizballah. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi condemned the strike, promising that Israel would pay for the action. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, with potential implications for regional stability. The article also references past conflicts involving key figures like Qasem Soleimani and recent escalations in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Prague is engulfed in grief and fear following a mass shooting at the Faculty of Arts, where a history student killed 14 and injured 25 people. The city has declared a day of mourning, and police have heightened security measures. Selma Muhić Dizdarević, a lecturer at Charles University, recounts her personal connection to the tragedy, as her son narrowly avoided the attack. The shooter, identified as David K., had a legal permit for multiple firearms and committed suicide when confronted by police. The incident has prompted calls for calm and caution against spreading misinformation.

Four journalists from Radio Free Europe are currently unjustly imprisoned. Human rights groups and RFE/RL have repeatedly called for their release. Their cases are discussed in the podcast 'Šta ima?'.

To commemorate International Migrants Day on December 18, RFE/RL highlighted the plight of migrants and refugees across 23 countries. The report covers various crises, including Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion, ethnic Armenians leaving Nagorno-Karabakh, internally displaced Afghans, and the impact of the Gaza war. It features personal stories of hardship and the challenges of integration, such as a Kyrgyz family's journey to the U.S., Afghan Sikhs in India, and Ukrainian refugees in Israel. The article emphasizes the need for international support and long-term solutions to humanitarian crises.

Gas stations across Iran experienced significant disruptions, with Oil Minister Javad Owji attributing the probable cause to foreign interference. About 70 percent of the country's gas stations were affected, though 1,650 out of 3,800 stations were operational later. The hacker group Gonjeshke Darande, accused by Tehran of having ties with Israel, claimed responsibility for the cyberattack. Iran's Civil Defense Agency is investigating the cause, considering hacking and infiltration among possible reasons. The incident follows a series of cyberattacks on Iran in recent years, including a major attack on the fuel distribution system in 2021.

Iran's water reserves have significantly declined due to increased hydroelectric power production amid high temperatures, drought, and government mismanagement. The water volume in hydroelectric plant reservoirs is at 40 percent capacity, with a 22 percent increase in outflow compared to last year. The government has failed to meet renewable electricity production targets, exacerbating the water crisis. Iran, highly vulnerable to climate change, has seen protests over water shortages, particularly in drought-stricken areas. The water scarcity has also led to conflicts, including deadly clashes with Afghanistan over water resources.

In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a project titled 'Locking Prices' will be introduced, aiming to reduce and lock the prices of several dozen products in stores for three months. Additionally, the National Museum will host an exhibition on the inclusivity of fashion, featuring participation from people on the move.

Lawmakers in Republika Srpska have proposed legislation that would grant them immunity from actions by the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. This move is seen as a significant development in the ongoing political dynamics within the region, potentially impacting the balance of power and the enforcement of international oversight in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Approximately 2,200 workers of the ArcelorMittal factory in Zenica are protesting because they have not received their wages for November. The Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina is visiting Herzegovina. The annual science awards are being presented in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

A conference on the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes is to be held at the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with discussions on potentially expediting the process. The Minister for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina is visiting the Salakovac refugee camp. The House of Peoples of the Parliamentary Assembly will discuss a proposal to amend the VAT Law.

In Germany, out of 80 million residents, 13 million have a migrant background. The experiences of Bosnians and Herzegovinians who were received during the 1990s war and Afghans who arrived after the Taliban's return to power highlight changes in the integration system and rules.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Centar ženskih prava in Zenica has been leading the 'Mreža 4P' network, providing support to women facing gender-based violence. The network, consisting of around 60 women, offers legal and emotional assistance, helping victims navigate institutional processes. The initiative is crucial as nearly half of the women in Bosnia and Herzegovina have experienced some form of violence since the age of 15. The network's efforts have gained prominence following recent high-profile femicide cases, highlighting the need for preventive measures and increased awareness. The article underscores the importance of support systems and the role of 'persons of trust' in aiding victims through legal and social challenges.

The World Forum for Democracy begins at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg. A conference on violence prevention is held in Mostar. The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict is observed.

In 2021, 45,000 women were killed worldwide, with significant femicide cases reported in the Western Balkans. Despite international conventions like the Istanbul Convention, the region struggles with inadequate application of laws protecting women. Kosana Beker from FemPlatz highlights the need for specific legal recognition of femicide as a severe crime. The article discusses various cases and the societal and legal challenges in addressing gender-based violence. Recommendations include criminalizing femicide, improving judicial practices, and promoting zero tolerance for violence against women.

The EU summit in Brussels will discuss the decision to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Additionally, a football match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Ukraine will take place in Zenica, and it is World Down Syndrome Day.

A campaign for Media and Information Literacy Days is underway in Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning in media literacy. The Kantonalni sud u Novom Travniku and the Centar ženskih prava Zenica are addressing femicide and introducing a new support resource. Additionally, the text notes the observance of International Opera Day.

The article reviews various podcasts from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in 2023, covering topics from youth issues and mental health to diplomacy and social problems. Highlights include discussions on the impact of Red Bull events in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the influence of ex-Yugoslav rock music, and the pressures faced by young people. It also features interviews with notable figures like Jadran Crnogorac and Ilda Humić, and delves into political actions by Milorad Dodik and the geopolitical stance of Vladimir Putin. The content is a mix of factual reporting and subjective analysis, with a generally neutral to positive sentiment towards most individuals and organizations, except for critical views on Dodik and Putin.

Iranian authorities executed eight people over the weekend, raising concerns about an increase in death sentences following a recent presidential election. Human rights groups report a significant rise in executions, particularly of Afghan nationals, who face unfair trials. Anti-Afghan sentiment is growing in Iran, exacerbated by social media claims linking Afghan migrants to health issues. Tehran is also pressuring Baghdad to extradite Iranian-Kurdish opposition members, following a security pact. The article highlights the systemic gender apartheid in Iran and Afghanistan, with calls for international recognition and action. The recent election of reformist Masud Pezeshkian is viewed skeptically, with doubts about his ability to implement significant changes.

Iranian film director Mohammad Rasoulof received a special jury prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his film highlighting injustice in Iran. The article also covers the election of Mohammad Movahedi Kermani as the head of Iran's Assembly of Experts, following the deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi and other officials in a helicopter crash. The Assembly of Experts, a clerical body with significant power, is responsible for selecting the nation's supreme leader. The article discusses the potential successors to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the political implications of Raisi's death. Additionally, it touches on the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps and the influence of various political and religious figures in Iran.

Leading Afghan women’s rights activists have criticized the United Nations for inviting the Taliban to an international conference in Qatar, arguing that it legitimizes the Taliban's government and excludes critical discussions on women's rights. The conference aims to increase international engagement with Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, focusing on economic development, climate change, and drug eradication. Activists like Sima Samar and Shaharzad Akbar have expressed concerns about the exclusion of Afghan women and the issue of women's rights from the agenda. The Taliban has been accused of severe human rights violations, including gender apartheid, and has refused to discuss these allegations. The article highlights the broader implications of the UN's concessions to the Taliban and the international community's response.

Mohammad Movahedi Kermani has been elected head of Iran's Assembly of Experts, continuing the conservative leadership in a key institution responsible for selecting the nation's supreme leader. The election follows the deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi and other officials in a helicopter crash, which has intensified speculation about the succession of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The Assembly of Experts, dominated by hard-liners, plays a crucial role in this process. The article also discusses the sentencing of Mashallah Karami, the father of an executed protester, highlighting the Iranian government's crackdown on dissent. The death of Raisi has led to a power struggle among Iran's clerical establishment, with potential successors being discussed, including Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei. The article also touches on the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps in the succession process and the international reactions to Raisi's death.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) plotted to assassinate two U.K.-based Iranian journalists using a people smuggler, offering $200,000 for the killings. The plot, named 'The Wedding,' targeted Fardad Farahzad and Sima Sabet, presenters at Iran International. The plan was foiled by a double agent working for a Western intelligence agency. The IRGC aimed to silence Iran International due to its critical coverage of Tehran. Mohammad Reza Ansari, an IRGC commander, was identified as the mastermind, with the plot allegedly commissioned from Damascus. The article also highlights Iran's oppressive actions against journalists and human rights activists, including the recent execution of Reza Rasaei and the mistreatment of Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi in prison.

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International and Iran Human Rights, have condemned the execution of Samira Sabzian in Iran, who was forced into marriage as a child and later convicted of killing her husband. Despite an international campaign for clemency, Sabzian was executed under the principle of 'qesas' or retribution-in-kind. Amnesty International and the UN High Commissioner on Human Rights have called for an immediate moratorium on executions in Iran, highlighting the country's alarming rate of executions, particularly for drug-related offenses and homicides.

Iranian lawmaker claims up to 2,000 people face execution for alleged drug crimes in a small district. The article also covers the arrest and legal troubles of Telegram founder Pavel Durov in France, the disqualification of Iranian track star-turned-Turkish para-athlete Serkan Yildirim, and the sentencing of four Iranian women to death for alleged armed rebellion. It highlights the rise in executions since the 2022 protests following Mahsa Amini's death. The article also discusses geopolitical developments involving Azerbaijan's growing ties with China and Iran's efforts to influence the U.S. presidential election through cyber activities.

An unsubstantiated claim on social media linking Afghan migrants to a rise in leprosy cases in Iran has fueled anti-Afghan sentiment and calls for their expulsion. Iranian media reported nine new leprosy cases, three involving Afghans, leading to baseless accusations of bioterrorism. Historical data shows leprosy has not been eradicated in Iran. The article also highlights the worsening treatment of Afghan migrants in Iran, with increasing harassment and deportations. Additionally, it discusses the push to recognize 'gender apartheid' under international law, driven by the systemic oppression of women in Afghanistan and Iran. Afghan women's rights activists advocate for holding authorities accountable for gender-based violence and discrimination.

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković is set to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina. The visit includes a panel on economic poverty in Tuzla, theatrical meetings in Brčko, and a media literacy campaign in Sarajevo.

The Taliban's military victory in Afghanistan has led to a cautious revival of Western engagement, driven by the humanitarian crisis and the group's potential to combat regional terrorism and drug trafficking. Despite initial efforts to build relations, the Taliban's human rights abuses, particularly against women, have kept it isolated and unrecognized. Recent subtle shifts in international approaches include discussions on humanitarian aid and economic issues, but full recognition remains distant. The UN and several countries maintain a presence in Afghanistan, while mixed messages and controversial comments have caused confusion. The Taliban's strict enforcement of Shari'a law and new morality laws have further isolated it from both the international community and the Afghan public. Deportations of Afghan refugees by Germany and the Taliban's harsh treatment of women continue to draw criticism. The article also highlights the Taliban's internal challenges, including defections to IS-K, which undermines its rule and complicates its quest for legitimacy.

The article draws parallels between the humanitarian crisis in Sarajevo during its siege and the current situation in Gaza following Israel's total blockade in response to Hamas attacks. It discusses the potential humanitarian disaster in Gaza, where 2.2 million people could be left without food, water, and basic necessities. The article references past rulings from the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia on crimes against civilians and compares the experiences of Sarajevo with the current conditions in Gaza. It also touches on the complexities of the situation, including Israel's right to self-defense and Hamas's tactics, while highlighting the risks to civilians, especially pregnant women, in the ongoing conflict.

A conference organized by the Sarajevski otvoreni centar in Sarajevo focuses on the protection and advancement of women's and LGBTQ+ rights, emphasizing the Istanbul Convention and equality. Key political figures Dragan Čović, Milorad Dodik, and Nermin Nikšić are participating in a panel in Vienna discussing the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina and its path towards the European Union.

An Afghan journalist, Ruhollah Sangar, was released by the Taliban's intelligence service amid growing concerns over the increasing harassment of journalists in Afghanistan. The Afghanistan Journalist Center (AFJC) and the Afghan Free Media Support Organization (NAI) have documented numerous incidents of journalist detentions and threats since March. The Taliban's actions have been widely criticized for violating media laws and suppressing press freedom. The article also discusses the Taliban's broader impact on media and international relations, including diplomatic engagements with countries like Russia and China.

Imprisoned Iranian human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi has refused to attend a court hearing, denouncing the revolutionary tribunal as a 'slaughterhouse.' The hearing was set to address her recent activities in prison. Mohammadi, who has been in and out of prison for nearly 20 years, is currently serving a 10-year sentence. Her family expressed concerns about her health and the conditions in Evin Prison. The article also highlights the broader context of human rights abuses in Iran, including the execution of Reza Rasaei and the death of Mahsa Amini, which have sparked protests.

Iran has vowed a 'symmetric and proportionate' response after Britain, France, and Germany canceled air services agreements and pledged sanctions against Iran Air over alleged ballistic missile transfers to Russia. The U.S. also sanctioned individuals and entities in Iran and Russia. The European Union and U.S. officials condemned Iran's actions, linking them to increased military support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict. Iran denies the allegations, calling them baseless. The article also touches on broader geopolitical dynamics, including Iran's strained relations with Western countries and its support for Russia.

In rural Afghanistan, secret schools run by the Pohana Fund offer education to girls banned from attending school by the Taliban. These underground schools, operating in provinces like Helmand and Kandahar, educate around 1,000 girls despite the risks of arrest and punishment. The Taliban's severe restrictions on female education have led to a surge in such clandestine initiatives. The Pohana Fund, founded by exiled activist Wazhma Tokhi, aims to counter the Taliban's efforts to eliminate secular education. The text also highlights the broader context of human rights abuses and the deteriorating health situation in Afghanistan, including a cholera outbreak exacerbated by natural disasters and a crumbling healthcare system.

The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina initiates a price lockdown and reduction for 40 food and hygiene products. The Federal Ministry of Education and Science discusses the state and development prospects of higher education. The SARTR theater premieres the play 'A Hundred Little Deaths'.

The article explores the experiences of refugees from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Afghanistan in Germany, highlighting the challenges and changes in refugee policies over the past three decades. It discusses the integration efforts, including language courses and social inclusion programs, and the evolving attitudes towards refugees in Germany. Key figures like Meho Travljanin and Hasan Mehmedović share their personal stories, while experts like Karl Kopp emphasize the importance of early integration. The article also touches on the political discourse surrounding immigration, with references to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and former Chancellor Angela Merkel's policies.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is set to deliver a rare public sermon amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, following Israeli air strikes in Lebanon and Iran's missile attack on Israel. The conflict has intensified with the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, a key ally of Iran, in Israeli strikes. The situation has raised fears of a broader regional conflict, with both Iran and Israel preparing for potential further military actions. The international community, including the UN and major powers, has called for de-escalation and a cease-fire to prevent an all-out war.

The article discusses escalating tensions in the Middle East, focusing on Israeli air strikes in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran. The conflict has intensified following Iran's missile attack on Israel, which was a response to Israeli actions in Lebanon. The article highlights the potential for a broader regional conflict, with the United States and other international actors involved in diplomatic discussions. Key figures such as Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah, have been killed, leading to significant implications for Iran's influence in the region. The situation remains volatile, with calls for de-escalation from global leaders.

The text highlights several events: the start of the third congress of geneticists in Bosnia and Herzegovina, an international summit on climate and energy in Madrid, the International Day of Non-Violence, and a performance of 'Othello and Alice in Bed' as part of the Mess Festival.

The article reports on the assassination of Milad Bidi, a member of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut. It discusses the broader implications of the killing, including Iran's vow for revenge and the potential for escalating conflict in the Middle East. The article also covers the deaths of other key figures, such as Fuad Shukr and Ismail Haniyeh, and the impact on regional stability, particularly in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Expert analyses highlight the complexities and potential consequences of these developments.

The Taliban's Ministry of Higher Education has mandated the removal of religious books from private university libraries that do not align with the Sunni Hanafi sect, targeting texts from Shi'ite, Hizb ut-Tahrir, and Salafist sects. This move has sparked concerns about further limiting religious freedom and educational diversity in Afghanistan. The article also touches on the broader context of the Taliban's return to power, including the U.S. withdrawal and its political ramifications, as well as the ongoing challenges faced by religious and ethnic minorities under Taliban rule.

In April 2020, following the declaration of a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina purchased essential respirators. These were received at Sarajevo airport by then Prime Minister Fadil Novalić. Four years later, three individuals, including Novalić, are imprisoned over the medical equipment intended to save lives during the pandemic. The article explores how Novalić, once a successful entrepreneur and long-serving prime minister, ended up in prison.

The article discusses the increasing trend of women turning to media and social media platforms as a last resort for seeking help and protection from violence. Activist Lana Bobić highlights the inefficacy of the legal system in protecting women, leading them to seek solidarity and support online. The case of Klara Buntić, who shared a recording of her husband abusing her, is detailed, including the legal proceedings and public reactions. The article also touches on the broader social and institutional challenges women face in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing the need for systemic change and better support mechanisms.

The International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP) organized a book promotion in Kyiv to mark the International Day of the Disappeared. The book, 'Zemlja nestalih ljudi: Osiguravanje pravde i istine za porodice nestalih u Ukrajini,' authored by Kevin Sullivan, addresses the issue of missing persons in Ukraine and compares it with similar cases in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sullivan emphasizes the need for a unified approach to data collection from various agencies. The book also offers recommendations for Ukraine based on ICMP's work in the Western Balkans.

Protests against violence towards women are being organized across Bosnia and Herzegovina, following a femicide in Gradačac on August 11. Although not organized by a specific group, many organizations, including 'Sve su to vještice', have joined the cause. Hana Ćurak, the founder of 'Sve su to vještice', discusses the significance of the protest in the context of ongoing violence against women.

Mirzeta Tomljanović, a coordinator for a domestic violence SOS line in Republika Srpska, discusses the increase in domestic violence reports and the challenges victims face in seeking help. The article highlights the tragic case of Nermin Sulejmanović, who killed his former partner Nizama Hećimović, and underscores the importance of support systems like the SOS line and safe houses. It also addresses the broader issue of underreporting of domestic violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina, citing data from the OSCE and the Council of Europe.

A Bosnian man live streamed the murders of his ex-wife and two others before committing suicide, shocking a nation already scarred by conflict. The incident highlighted the failure of social media platforms like Instagram, owned by Meta, to quickly remove such content. Experts criticized the inefficacy of algorithms in moderating non-English content and the slow response from Meta. The tragedy prompted calls for better protections for women and scrutiny of social media's role in such events. Thousands of Bosnians protested, demanding greater protections for women, while authorities investigated the incident and potential encouragement of the crime on social media.

Enisa Klepo, a young lawyer from Jablanica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, was physically attacked by her employer, the owner of Hotel Jablanica, after resigning due to workplace mobbing and demanding her earned wages. The incident has sparked a peaceful protest march against violence towards women in Jablanica, with additional support protests in Bihać and Gračanica. Legal representative Slađana Milovanović from Fondacija Lara states that while the case is extreme, it is not isolated. Data from various organizations indicate a concerning trend of gender discrimination and violation of workers' rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite legal protections, many women do not report violence, and the judicial process is slow and inaccessible. The case has received support from UN Women and the Agency for Gender Equality of BiH, highlighting the prevalence of gender-based violence and the need for a working environment free from violence and harassment.

The assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, in Tehran has heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Iran blaming Israel and the U.S. for the attack. The killing has significant implications for regional stability, potentially escalating the conflict between Iran and Israel. The incident has also raised concerns about the security of Iran's borders and the impact on Afghanistan and Pakistan. Various international actors, including the U.S. and Israel, have responded to the assassination, with calls for retaliation and fears of a broader war. The situation remains volatile, with potential repercussions for ongoing peace negotiations and regional security.

The world is experiencing extreme heat and highly variable weather conditions. In just a few days, the Western Balkans recorded temperatures of 42 degrees Celsius, followed by severe storms that claimed six lives. The article explores why the weather is becoming increasingly unstable and whether summers will continue to get hotter.

In a 1993 visit to Srebrenica, Canadian soldier Peter Danyluk took photographs of children living in the town during the Bosnian War. Thirty years later, he revisited these images, wondering if they could bring comfort to anyone. Danyluk, who spent most of his time in Kiseljak but had a memorable two-month stay in the UN-protected zone of Srebrenica, has vivid memories of the tour. He shared some photos with Radio Slobodna Evropa for the 'Srebrenica, Untold Stories' project, which includes images of genocide victims. Danyluk recalls a boy named Nermin with whom he had interacted. Azir Osmanović, a curator at the Srebrenica Memorial Center Museum, notes that such photographs were common among soldiers. Danyluk, now retired from the Canadian military and police service, hopes that if anyone recognizes themselves in the photos, a reunion could offer them solace.

Youth in Mostar are engaging in educational activities focused on street art, learning about mural creation and the cultural significance of urban art forms.

Germany's approach to migrants has evolved, focusing on better integration, especially through education and language courses. Despite improvements, refugees from different eras, like the Balkan wars and recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Ukraine, still face challenges in acceptance and integration. Germany's labor shortage has influenced its migration policy, recognizing the need for migrant workers. Political opinions vary, with some advocating for stricter controls and others for early integration. Experiences of discrimination and racism persist, but there are also stories of successful adaptation and contribution to German society.

A former Iranian prison official, Hamid Nouri, sentenced to life in Sweden for mass executions in 1988, was released in a prisoner swap involving an EU diplomat and a dual Iranian-Swedish citizen. The swap, facilitated by Oman, marks a breakthrough in strained Iran-Sweden relations. The article also discusses the broader context of Iran's detention of foreign nationals, including EU citizens, and the international response. Amnesty International and EU officials have criticized Iran's use of foreign detainees as leverage. The text also covers the ongoing deportation of Afghan refugees by Iran and Pakistan, worsening Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis. Additionally, it highlights the severe judicial actions against Iranian activists and critics, including harsh sentences and detentions, reflecting the regime's crackdown on dissent.

The 80th anniversary of the Battle of Sutjeska is being commemorated at Tjentište. In Banja Luka, the first General Assembly of the Association of Police Chiefs of Southeast European Countries is taking place. A conference in Sarajevo is focusing on artificial intelligence.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has shown progress in understanding gender-based violence, treating it as a human rights violation and a form of discrimination. Despite ratifying the Istanbul Convention in 2013, challenges remain in fully implementing its provisions, particularly regarding sexual violence and rape laws. GREVIO's evaluation highlights both positive steps, such as new criminal offenses and specialized victim support, and areas needing improvement, like police response and victim support services. The root cause of violence is identified as historically unequal power relations between genders, necessitating education and awareness to combat stereotypes and promote equality.

The article discusses the increasing presence and ethical considerations of artificial intelligence (AI) in various aspects of life, highlighting the balance needed between innovation and caution. Bojan Perkov from Share Foundation emphasizes the importance of avoiding extremes and maintaining human elements in AI development. The article also covers global regulatory efforts, including the European Union's AI Act, and the concerns raised by experts like Geoffrey Hinton about the potential risks of AI. The need for systemic solutions and increased media and technological literacy is underscored to address the deeper societal issues intertwined with AI technology.

Iranian film director Mohammad Rasoulof, who fled Iran to avoid imprisonment, received a special jury prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his film highlighting injustice in Iran. The article also discusses the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash, which has significant implications for Iran's political landscape. Raisi's death has sparked mixed reactions, with some celebrating due to his controversial past involving human rights abuses. The article covers the potential successors to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps in the succession process. Additionally, it touches on the international response to Raisi's death and the ongoing political and social challenges in Iran.

The death sentence given to Mujahed Korkor for the murder of Kian Pirfalak and others during anti-regime protests in Iran is deemed 'illegal' by a lawyer representing victims' families. Korkor was accused of using an automatic weapon, but Pirfalak's parents dispute the claim, stating security forces shot their car. The rate of executions in Iran has sharply increased following protests triggered by Mahsa Amini's death. Iran Human Rights and Amnesty International report over 700 executions in Iran, with a marked increase in recent months.

Iran has been the focus of numerous human rights concerns, including the execution of a 'child bride' for the alleged murder of her husband, the sentencing of Kurdish-language teacher Soma Pourmohammadi to 11 years in prison for her cultural activities, and the crackdown on protests following Mahsa Amini's death. The U.S. Treasury Department has sanctioned entities involved in Iran's drone program, which supports Russia's war in Ukraine. Human rights groups have criticized Iran's crackdown on dissent, with Amnesty International warning that world order is under threat due to international rule breaking and escalating conflicts. Iran's influence in Africa is growing as it offers arms and partnerships, while domestically, the IRGC has created a new enforcement body to uphold the strict dress code for women. Relations with Pakistan are being mended after missile strikes earlier this year, and Supreme Leader Khamenei has expressed gratitude to Iran's armed forces following a missile attack on Israel.

Iran has refrained from directly responding to suspected Israeli strikes that killed IRGC members, including a consulate attack in Damascus. Tehran vows vengeance, with Ayatollah Khamenei promising punishment for Israel. The strike on the consulate, a first on an Iranian diplomatic compound, killed seven IRGC members, including General Mohammad Reza Zahedi. Iran demands global condemnation and a UN Security Council meeting, while Israel maintains its policy of silence on Syrian airstrikes. Analysts suggest Iran may be compelled to respond, possibly indirectly, to maintain regional credibility. The attack raises concerns of escalating conflict in the region, with Iran holding Israel responsible and the U.S. expressing concern over escalation. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, the strategic calculations of both nations, and the potential for broader regional implications.

Iran has confirmed the death of IRGC member Behruz Vahedi in Syria following air strikes attributed to Israel. The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights reported 13 deaths, including 12 non-Syrian IRGC members. The strikes occurred before a UN Security Council resolution calling for a Gaza cease-fire, highlighting Israel's political isolation. Iran's regional allies have targeted Israeli and U.S. interests since Israel's Gaza offensive. The IRGC has supported Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since 2013, with hundreds of commanders in Syria.

Mostar, a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has become renowned for its vibrant street art scene, thanks to the annual Street Arts Festival, now in its sixth year. The festival has transformed the city into a large open-air gallery with over a hundred murals, attracting artists from across the Balkans and as far as Uruguay and Argentina. Marina Mimoza, the festival organizer, has played a pivotal role in this transformation, which has garnered international recognition and increased tourist interest. This year, artists focused on Šantić street and the Konak, with the aim of turning Šantić street into a mural street, symbolically bridging the ethnic divide from the 1990s war. The festival not only promotes art but also community engagement, with volunteers contributing to the event's success. Despite Mostar's complex political situation and the absence of local elections for nine years, the street art movement brings hope and color to the city's residents.

Croatian travel writer Goran Blažević embarked on a 3,300-kilometer walk from Jordan to Croatia to cast a spotlight on the refugee crisis and to challenge the negative stereotypes of Middle Eastern countries and Muslims. He traveled through countries like Jordan, Palestine, Israel, Cyprus, Turkey, Greece, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia, experiencing the hospitality and kindness of locals. Goran's journey, which mirrored the path taken by refugees in 2015, is documented in his book 'Svilim – 3,300 kilometers by foot on the refugee route'. He aims to use his experiences and book to promote understanding and solidarity in the regions he visited and to address the tragedies and issues often ignored by the media.

The article covers the celebration of the annual Pride parade in Lund, Sweden, highlighting the inclusive and celebratory nature of the event in contrast to the experiences of participants from countries where LGBT rights are less accepted. The parade, themed 'Together', attracted around four thousand people, including international attendees. The article shares personal accounts from individuals who have faced challenges in their home countries, such as Indonesia and Turkey, where Pride events are met with resistance or are not fully supported. The contrast between the open acceptance in Sweden and the fear of persecution in other countries is a central theme, with personal stories underscoring the importance of acceptance and the right to express one's identity freely.