The Atlanta spa shootings are rooted in a long history of violence against Asians in America, intertwined with racism, sexism, and imperialism. The victims, predominantly Asian women, were targeted by a shooter claiming to eliminate 'temptation,' reflecting stereotypes of Asian women as hypersexualized and submissive. The incident highlights the intersection of race, gender, and class, and the systemic oppression faced by Asian women, particularly those in sex work. The response to the shootings, including increased policing, is ironic given law enforcement's role in the instability of the massage-parlor-worker community. The article argues that anti-Asian violence is also anti-women, anti-poor, and anti-sex-work violence, and calls for a broader fight against oppression.

Angela Gulbenkian, a German-born art consultant, was involved in a bizarre art fraud that spanned Europe and Asia, defrauding Hong Kong art dealer Mathieu Ticolat of $1.4 million through the sale of a Yayoi Kusama sculpture that she did not own. Despite her claims of being part of the philanthropic Gulbenkian family, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation has distanced itself from her. Angela's lavish spending and lifestyle were funded by the stolen money. Legal actions were taken against her, and she was eventually arrested in Portugal and extradited to the UK for trial.

The article recounts the story of Peter Madsen, a Danish inventor and entrepreneur, who became a local antiestablishment celebrity through his ambitious projects such as the UC3 Nautilus submarine and the Copenhagen Suborbitals rocket venture. However, his life took a dark turn when journalist Kim Wall disappeared after boarding the Nautilus for an interview. Her dismembered body was later found, and Madsen's changing accounts of the events led to his arrest and indictment for her murder. The case shocked Denmark, a country with a low homicide rate, and raised questions about the dangers journalists face while reporting.

Scott Guggenheim, a senior adviser to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, has been a key figure in shaping Afghanistan's policies and connecting Kabul with Washington. Despite the challenges and increasing insecurity in Afghanistan, Guggenheim remains committed to the country's development, although he expresses doubts about the success of the project and contemplates leaving. The Trump administration's approach to Afghanistan, led by military generals, has shifted the focus to long-term planning and increased troop presence, which is seen as an opportunity for Ghani to implement reforms. However, the situation remains complex with internal political struggles and the constant threat of violence from insurgent groups like the Taliban.

In Sri Lanka, the end of the civil war between Tamil and Buddhist forces did not bring peace but rather a shift in violence towards Muslims. Buddhist nationalists, including the Bodu Bala Sena party, have targeted Muslim businesses, homes, and mosques. The violence has been exacerbated by economic disparities and a rise in conservative Islamic practices among Muslims. Despite laws protecting minorities, enforcement is weak, and the government has been criticized for its lack of action. The Muslim community has been trying to prevent further violence, but the situation remains tense, with some government officials denying the severity of the issue. The Mohammed family, having faced threats and violence, is now considering leaving their homeland.

The article discusses the plight of Afghan refugees, focusing on individuals like Ahmad, who was deported from Turkey and now lives under a bridge in Kabul. It highlights the increase in Afghan refugees due to deteriorating security, with many seeking asylum in Europe. Despite a UNHCR repatriation program, many returnees leave Afghanistan again due to reintegration challenges. The article also touches on the business of human smuggling and the impact of European Union policies on refugee routes. It concludes with the Afghan government's struggle to portray a message of hope amidst the highest civilian death toll since 2009 and the stark reality of Afghans' desperation to leave.

In Kabul, Abdullah Sharifi, a young Afghan man, turned to a fortune-teller named Arab Shah after losing his job and facing the harsh realities of a country in turmoil. The article explores the role of fortune-tellers in Afghan society, where many seek guidance on issues ranging from love and money to migration and asylum. The narrative delves into the history of such practices, their intersection with Islam, and the societal needs they fulfill. It also touches on the political and religious tensions surrounding fortune-telling, including the murder of Farkhunda Malikzada and subsequent crackdown on the practice. Despite the controversies, fortune-tellers like Shah continue to serve those who have lost faith in their country and seek a better life abroad, highlighting the enduring human desire for hope and direction amidst uncertainty.

At a gathering in Denver to watch an American football game, individuals shared light-hearted scar stories until one person recounted a harrowing experience from Kabul during the Taliban's rule. The story, involving a violent encounter with Taliban soldiers for not attending prayers, resulted in a fractured hand and a sobering moment of silence among the group, highlighting cultural differences in the types of personal stories shared.

Afghan women's rights activists, once protected by foreign troops, face increasing threats as international support wanes. The quota for female representation in provincial councils has been reduced, and the elimination of violence against women law was rejected in parliament. Despite donors' assurances of commitment, the withdrawal of funding is forcing the closure of legal aid clinics that assist women with divorces and child custody. Lawmakers like Nilofar Ibrahimi struggle to campaign without military assistance, and activists like Orzala Ashraf Nemat criticize the west's unsustainable efforts, while emphasizing the resilience of Afghan women's rights movements.