Jens Spahn, a senior Christian Democratic Union member, faced pressure within his party after using commercial surrogacy services abroad, contrary to the CDU's stated opposition to commercial surrogacy and defence of traditional family policy. The incident raised questions about institutional integrity and whether party leaders should be held to the same principles they publicly espouse.
23 July 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Britain has withdrawn its remaining diplomatic staff from Iran due to security concerns arising from escalating conflict between Iran and the United States, with the Foreign Office saying the embassy continues to operate remotely. The withdrawal follows an earlier June staff withdrawal and comes after Israeli air strikes on Iran.
23 July 2026 · The Standard →
Four women and two men are running to become the next UN Secretary-General, with Rafael Grossi of Argentina (current head of the UN nuclear watchdog), Michelle Bachelet of Chile, Maria Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador, Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana, and Macky Sall of Senegal among the contenders. The Security Council's five permanent members—the US, Britain, China, France, and Russia—have veto power over the selection.
23 July 2026 · The Standard →