Deann Borshay Liem's Adoption Story and Korean Adoption Scandal

Deann Borshay Liem's adoption paperwork contained two childhood photographs labeled with the name Cha Jung Hee, revealing widespread fraud and human rights violations in Korean adoption agencies. More than 140,000 South Korean children were adopted abroad after the Korean war. Liem discovered her birth mother was alive, leading to her sharing her adoption story and thoughts on justice for adoptees.

South Korea's Foreign Adoption Program Investigation

South Korea's truth commission found the government responsible for a fraudulent foreign adoption program that was driven by efforts to reduce welfare costs and enabled by private agencies. The government failed to ensure proper oversight and allowed agencies to engage in illicit practices, leading to human rights violations. The commission recommended the government issue an apology, address grievances of adoptees, investigate citizenship gaps among adoptees sent to the United States, and assist those without citizenship.

ICE Detention of Venezuelan Ex-Military Official

ICE detained Venezuelan ex-military official accused of human rights violations in Venezuela, currently under FBI investigation. He moved to the U.S. with his family and applied for political asylum in 2017.

Conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The United Nations reported almost 3,000 people killed in the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The situation in Goma remains volatile with risks of escalation. M23 insurgents have taken control of key infrastructures and airports. MONUSCO has ceased joint operations with the Congolese armed forces. DRC government seeks U.N. investigation into mass human rights violations in Goma.

President Trump's Announcement on Cutting off Foreign Aid to South Africa

President Trump plans to cut off all foreign aid to South Africa due to claims of land confiscation and human rights violations. South African President denies land confiscation and looks forward to engaging with the Trump administration. Analysts suggest Trump's comments may be related to ongoing violence against farmers in South Africa.

Biden Administration's Action Against Venezuelan President Maduro

The Biden administration takes action against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro for electoral fraud and human rights violations. Maduro claims to have arrested foreign mercenaries, including Americans, accused of terrorism. The U.S. denies involvement and supports a democratic solution in Venezuela. Opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, backed by the U.S., challenges Maduro's election victory. Maduro's actions are seen as attempts to maintain control amidst growing discontent and crises in Venezuela.

Saudi Arabia to Host 2034 FIFA World Cup

Saudi Arabia has been announced as the host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a controversial decision due to the country's human rights violations. Critics fear abuses of migrant workers and repression during the event.

NBA's Relationship with China

The NBA is set to play preseason games in China for the first time since 2019, following a controversy sparked by Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey's support for anti-government protests in Hong Kong. The league faced financial losses due to the fallout with China, but a return is now possible.

Accusations of Human Rights Violations in Gaza by Israeli Leaders

The International Criminal Court has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of human rights violations in Gaza, including civilian casualties and intentional deprivation of food and water. Matt Bodner reports for NBC News.

Accusations of Israeli Abuse of Palestinian Prisoners

Dr. Muhammad Abu Salmiya, a top doctor in Gaza, accused Israel of abusing Palestinian prisoners after being freed from detention. His release sparked outrage among Israeli officials and the security establishment. The decision to release him without charge or trial led to criticism and finger-pointing within Israel. The situation highlights the deep divisions within Israeli officialdom regarding the treatment of Palestinian prisoners.

Ukraine's Azov Brigade Receives US Support

The State Department announced that Ukraine's Azov Brigade will receive American weapons and training, despite its association with Nazi symbolism and human rights violations. Russia criticized the US for supporting 'neo-Nazis.' The Brigade was previously banned from receiving US assistance under the Leahy Law but has now passed vetting. The Brigade has faced accusations of human rights abuses and has been linked to pro-Nazi sentiments.

Human Rights Violations Against Uganda's LGBTQ Community

Uganda's LGBTQ community faces escalating human rights violations, with over 1000 cases recorded in the last nine months, including arrests, torture, and house evictions following the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act.

Legal Action Against Syrian Authorities for Disappearance of American

A Texas family plans to sue authorities in Syria for the disappearance of Majd Kamalmaz, one of several Americans believed to have been held unjustly by the repressive government.

Death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and FIFA's Response

The president of FIFA issued a message of condolence after the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who was known for human rights violations including repression of women soccer fans. FIFA had discussions with Raisi on promoting football in Iran. FIFA has faced criticism for disregarding human rights violations in countries like Qatar, which hosted the 2022 World Cup amidst reports of slavery and abuse in construction.

Thai Police Seize Ketamine Hidden in Transformer Robots and Human Rights Violations in Thailand

Thai police seized ketamine hidden inside life-size Transformer robots, while a leading human rights organization urged the government to stop forcing political dissidents to return to authoritarian home countries. The Thai government allegedly engaged in transnational repression by cooperating with neighboring countries to track down dissidents.

U.S. State Department Finds IDF Units Responsible for Human Rights Violations

The U.S. State Department found five units of the Israel Defense Forces responsible for gross violations of human rights, with four units having remediated the issues. Discussions are ongoing with Israel regarding the remaining unit and the potential consequences under the Leahy Laws.

U.S. Considers Sanctions on Israel Defense Forces Battalion for Human Rights Violations in West Bank

The Biden administration is considering imposing sanctions on an Israel Defense Forces battalion for alleged human rights violations in the West Bank. The U.S. has also imposed sanctions on individuals and entities associated with Israel and Iran due to escalating tensions in the region.

Ban on Music in Chechnya

Authorities in Chechnya have banned music with tempos outside the range of 80 to 116 beats per minute, aiming to align musical and dance works with 'Chechen mentality and musical rhythm.' The ban will impact genres such as pop and techno. Chechnya, an almost entirely Muslim republic, has faced criticism for human rights violations, including persecuting LGBT individuals.

Human Rights Violations in Venezuela under the Maduro Regime

The United Nations Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela warned about increased violent repression by the Maduro regime ahead of the upcoming July 28 sham presidential election. The regime is accused of committing crimes to intimidate dissidents and restrict fundamental rights. The report highlighted the regime's crackdown on opposition figures and its disregard for international agreements.