- Centerstage Events

Amendments on LGBTQ+ across Hungary and UK took centerstage this among all major events across the globe, and remains the highlight of this week's list of center stage events.
Picture Courtesy: Profit loss

Centerstage events of week 2

Hungary's parliament passes constitutional...

Hungary's parliament passes constitutional amendments targeting LGBTQ rights, banning Pride events and defining gender strictly as male or female. Backed by Viktor Orban’s ruling Fidesz party and far-right allies, the law prioritizes children’s "moral development" over other rights. Opposition parties protest, calling it authoritarian. Human rights groups condemn the move as a major assault on freedoms and urge the EU to act, citing violations of fundamental rights and EU law.

Sunday, 13 April, 2025

Maldives' parliament unanimously approves ...

Maldives' parliament unanimously approves an amendment to the Immigration Act, banning entry to travelers using Israeli passports until violence against Palestine ceases. Originally proposed by MDP MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, the bill was revised to allow dual citizens with Israeli nationality to enter if they use a non-Israeli passport, following advice from Maldives Immigration. Despite protesting this change, the MDP voted in favor. The Maldives continues urging global action to end the conflict in Palestine along with other countries which have implemented a travel ban for Israeli passports.

Monday, 14 April, 2025

The UK Supreme Court has unanimously...

The UK Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that under the Equality Act 2010, the legal definitions of "woman" and "sex" refer to biological sex, siding with campaign group For Women Scotland in a landmark case. The ruling impacts sex-based protections across Scotland, England, and Wales. Justice Lord Hodge emphasized that this decision is not a victory over transgender people, who remain protected under the Act through provisions on gender reassignment, including protection from discrimination and harassment in their acquired gender.

Tuesday, 15 April, 2025

Myanmar’s ruling junta has pardoned 4,893 prisoners...

Myanmar’s ruling junta has pardoned 4,893 prisoners to mark the country's traditional new year, according to state media. The release includes 13 foreign nationals, who will be deported. However, it remains unclear how many of the approximately 22,000 political detainees — including Aung San Suu Kyi — were included in the amnesty.At least 22 political prisoners have been confirmed released so far, with buses seen leaving Yangon’s Insein Prison. Freed individuals must serve the rest of their original sentences if they reoffend. The move precedes junta chief Min Aung Hlaing’s meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Bangkok, where discussions are expected to include humanitarian aid and ASEAN’s stance on Myanmar.

Wednesday, 16 April, 2025

U.S. Secretary of State Marco...

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warns that the U.S. may abandon its Ukraine peace efforts within days if no progress is made. Speaking from Paris, Rubio says the situation must be resolved quickly. The Trump administration is growing frustrated and proposes a peace framework that includes recognizing Russian control of Crimea. President Trump confirms Rubio reflects his views, emphasizing the need for swift results and expressing impatience with diplomatic delays.

Thursday, 17 April, 2025

India, as part of the G4 with Brazil...

India, as part of the G4 with Brazil, Germany, and Japan, renews its call for a reformed and expanded UN Security Council (UNSC). India argues for fairer representation, especially for Africa and Asia, and supports curbing permanent members’ veto power. As a top peacekeeping contributor, a major democracy, and a global south advocate, India gains backing from major powers and seeks permanent UNSC membership to reflect today’s global realities and promote multilateralism.

Friday, 18 April, 2025

In a first for Americas and Brazil...

In a first for Americas and Brazil, Hugo Calderano makes history by winning the Table Tennis World Cup in Macau, China, defeating world number one Lin Shidong in the final. Despite the home crowd's support for Shidong, the Brazilian remains composed and claims a 4–1 victory. After losing the first set 11–6, Calderano stages a comeback with powerful serves and counterattacks, winning the next sets 11–7, 11–9, 11–9, and 11–6 to secure Brazil’s first-ever title in the sport.

Saturday, 19 April, 2025