AI and human rights: UN High Commissioner Volker Türk warned that the race to more powerful AI poses “existential” risks, as Trump dismissed calls for guardrails as a “hoax,” while tech leaders urge slower development. Digital rights and trade: Public Citizen and Engage Media say U.S. reciprocal trade agreements hide clauses that could block countries from using certain ICT suppliers, threatening internet access and digital equality. Homelessness and rights: New Zealand groups are pushing to end “Move-on Orders” before Christmas, arguing forced displacement drives people into the criminal justice system instead of housing. Syria fuel protests: In Hasakah, residents block the M4 highway for a second day over diesel price hikes, linking global commodity prices to collapsing household incomes. West Bank “elimination” claims: B’Tselem released “The Elimination Project,” alleging Israel is systematically dismantling Palestinian life through violence, movement limits, economic suppression and territorial takeover. Immigration detention abuse (US): A DHS watchdog report says “Alligator Alcatraz” detainees were held in tiny metal cages dubbed “calming areas,” failing humane treatment standards. Democracy and rights: A Global State of Democracy report highlights Australia’s relative strength but flags major global declines, including freedom of expression and judicial independence. Rough sleeping and youth: The debate over excluding 14–17 year olds from move-on orders shows how policy choices can hit young people hardest.