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As Obama Heads to Malaysia, Human Trafficking Stance Questioned
U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to Malaysia on Friday for a Southeast Asia leaders' summit comes amid allegations by U.S. lawmakers and rights groups that his administration ignored Malaysia's abuse of trafficking victims such as Baser to secure the country's help sealing a high-profile trade deal and strengthen ties to offset China's growing political clout.

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U.S. Refugee Chief Tells Lawmakers 'Syrians Are Less Of a Threat' Than Other Groups, Sparking Controversy
The head of the State Department's refugee bureau told a congressional panel on Thursday that Syrians trying to enter the United States pose "less of a threat" than other populations, sparking a harsh exchange with a Republican lawmaker.

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EU To Tighten External Border Checks In Attempt to Boost Security After Paris
The European Union will tighten checks at external borders of the passport-free Schengen area, including for its own citizens who enjoy free movement within the bloc, to boost security after the attacks in Paris by armed militants.

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Global Fight Against Tuberculosis Hinges On India Stepping Up Funding: WHO
India is critical to the global fight to end an epidemic of tuberculosis by 2030 and must step up funding to control the disease, the World Health Organization said, citing concerns over broader cutbacks in government health programs.

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At Least Two Die In Police Raid On Terrorist Group Planning New Paris Attack
A woman suicide bomber blew herself up in a police raid on Wednesday that sources said had foiled a jihadi plan to hit Paris's business district, days after a wave of attacks killed 129 across the French capital.

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Qatar Evangelical Alliance breaks ground on worship center, witnessing Christ in a Muslim nation
A worship center for evangelical churches has commenced construction in Qatar, marking a significant spiritual milestone in the history of evangelicals in the country.

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Hong Kong's deadliest fire in a Century: churches mobilize and pray to support the community
On 26 November, a severe level‑five fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. Early reports said at least 13 people died and 23 were injured. Local churches mobilize to support the community and pray.

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Faith and freedom: USCIRF Chair Vicky Hartzler shares insights on China’s religious landscape
As China continues to update its religious regulations, changes in the country’s faith environment and space for religious practice have drawn increased global attention. In this interview, USCIRF Chair Vicky Hartzler responds to questions about religious policy, human rights, and faith, offering her perspectives on China’s current situation and sharing words of support and encouragement for Christians facing challenges.

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Christians gather in Hong Kong to pray for victims of Tai Po Hong Fu Court fire
More than 1,000 Christians gathered in Hong Kong on Dec. 5 for a united prayer service commemorating the victims of the five-alarm fire that devastated Hong Fu Court in Tai Po on Nov. 26, destroying thousands of homes and killing 159 people.

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U.S. Congressional hearing highlights religious freedom challenges facing Chinese Christians and other faith communities
A recent U.S. congressional hearing cast a spotlight on religious freedom conditions in China, with witnesses sharing firsthand accounts of pressure faced by Christian, Muslim, and Tibetan Buddhist communities.
