Yemen’s southern separatists plan to hold a referendum on independence within two years, amid ongoing conflict and regional tensions involving Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who support rival factions and have engaged in military strikes and political disputes in the region.
The SNP has experienced significant turmoil over the past year but is now showing signs of stability and competitiveness ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections, with potential to secure a majority and push for another independence referendum, amidst a highly fragmented political landscape in Scotland.
Spain's Parliament has approved a law granting amnesty to Catalan separatists involved in the 2017 independence referendum, including former leader Carles Puigdemont. The measure, brokered by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has sparked significant opposition and protests, with critics arguing it is unconstitutional and a political maneuver to retain power.
French President Emmanuel Macron has paused a contentious voting reform in New Caledonia after deadly riots erupted over the proposal. The reform would have expanded voting rights to more French residents, which many indigenous Kanaks fear would weaken their political influence and hinder future independence efforts. Macron urged local leaders to engage in dialogue to find a mutually acceptable solution and stated he would reassess the situation in a month. The unrest has resulted in six deaths, significant property damage, and the deployment of French security forces to the territory.
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has offered an amnesty to Catalan separatists involved in the illegal independence referendum in 2017, in exchange for their support to form a government. The amnesty would cover not only the ringleaders but also ordinary people who participated in the process. The agreement has sparked criticism from the right-wing parties, who view it as a betrayal of democracy and a threat to Spain's territorial integrity. While the deal may secure Sánchez's position as prime minister, it risks exacerbating the deep divisions between left and right in the country. The long-term stability of the Catalonia conflict remains uncertain, as some separatist activists continue to fight for independence.