Shanghai, China
Some people are facing punishments and threats from the Chinese police after being caught using Twitter. Although the social media site is banned in China and most people cannot access it, Twitter is still being used by some in the country, and the number of users is growing. Some censorship practices are implemented in China, such as the ban of many American social media platforms and high internet regulation. The punishments for those caught posting on Twitter include a 15-day sentence to a detention center, threats and chaining a culprit to a chair for eight hours of interrogation.
Original story by Paul Mozur, Jan. 10, 2019. The New York Times.
Bangkok, Thailand
A woman from Saudi Arabia who fled her family in fear for her life was granted asylum in Canada.
The woman, Rahaf Mohammed Alqunun, flew to Thailand after escaping from her family in Kuwait. She was denied entry into Thailand, prompting her to turn to social media to tell her story and plead for asylum. After remaining in a hotel room at the Suvarnabhumi Airport in Thailand for 48 hours, Alqunun was granted asylum in Canada by the United Nations.
Original story by Richard C. Paddock and Ryn Jirenuwat, Jan. 11, 2019. The New York Times.
Paris, France
An explosion caused by a gas leak in a Paris bakery killed at least four people and injured 47 people. Firefighters were responding to the gas leak when the explosion occurred, killing two firefighters on the scene. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo said that those in seek of shelter or further information about the explosion could go to the Town Hall, where they would receive help and accommodation.
Original story by Aurelien Breeden, Jan. 12, 2019. The New York Times.