What in the World?

In a thrilling conclusion to the 69th Eurovision Song Contest held in Basel, Switzerland, Austria took home the crown with JJ’s powerful ballad “Wasted Love,” marking the country’s third win in history. The 24-year-old pop star wowed both juries and fans with his extremely capable vocals. Honorable mentions go to Estonia’s Tommy Cash, whose catchy “Espresso Macchiato” landed third place, getting one of the highest number of votes without the jury, and stirred controversy with its hilarious take on Italian stereotypes.

In Mali, widespread protests have erupted following the government’s decision to dissolve all political parties and activities. Demonstrators are calling for democratic reforms and an end to military rule. The government’s actions have international human rights organizations expressing concern over the suppression of political opposition and even basic civil liberties.

In a surprising technological twist, China has started using artificial intelligence to help settle minor court cases. The AI “judge” listens to both sides, reviews the evidence, and then gives a decision, entirely without human emotion. Supporters say it’s efficient, while critics say it’s creepy. This glimpse shows how technology is reshaping justice.

On May 18, Pope Leo XIV, the first North American pope, delivered his inaugural mass at St. Peter’s Square, drawing a crowd of around 100,000 people. In his address, he called for unity and a renewed missionary spirit within the Church. The event marked a significant moment in the Church’s history, symbolizing a new era of leadership.

After years of post-Brexit uncertainty, the United Kingdom and the European Union have made significant strides toward renewing their partnership. Recent negotiations have led to a provisional agreement focusing on trade, defense, and youth mobility. While some contentious issues remain, such as fishing rights, the overall progress signals a hopeful turn in UK-EU relations.

With the year not even halfway done, global events are already setting the tone for a dynamic and unpredictable 2025.