PRESS REVIEW – Tuesday, December 17: Mayotte is ravaged by a cyclone that has devastated the already impoverished French island as Prime Minister François Bayrou is accused of neglecting his responsibilities. In the UK, Prince Andrew is embroiled in a scandal involving a suspected Chinese spy who financed his China venture. Plus: all hail the rise of the "noodle boys" – a new crop of young, male (mostly White) Hollywood stars who counterbalance toxic masculinity.

PRESS REVIEW – Monday, December 16: There is a focus on Syria's economic future, with a global hunt now underway for the billions of dollars in cash and assets stashed away by the Assad family. Meanwhile, Israel announces the closure of its embassy in Ireland. Elsewhere, British MPs are threatening to name a Chinese spy who has links to Prince Andrew. Finally, mysterious drones are causing anxiety for residents in New Jersey.

PRESS REVIEW – Friday, December 13: We look at reactions in the French papers as Emmanuel Macron delays nominating a new prime minister. There is also political chaos in Germany as Chancellor Olaf Schulz prepares for a vote of confidence next week. In Georgia, the political crisis ensues as the possibility of two presidents becomes likely. In the UK, an unlikely war of words erupts over a sandwich. And, the Netherlands ends its Miss Netherlands pageant, saying it's become an outdated concept. 

PRESS REVIEW – Thursday, December 12: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol refuses to step down, much to the dismay of many in the country, including the leader of his own party. Meanwhile, Donald Trump causes a stir with comments about Canadian PM Justin Trudeau. Finally, Saudi Arabia is confirmed as the host of the 2034 World Cup, a decision condemned by many human rights groups.

PRESS REVIEW – Friday, December 6: Emmanuel Macron is "alone”, "solitary" in the face of an unprecedented political crisis. The press has few words of comfort for Macron as France's political chaos ensues. Also, EU commissioner Ursula von der Leyen flies to Uruguay to seal the Mercosur deal – despite France and Italy's opposition. Scientists have created the first trial urine test to detect lung cancer. And, colour authority Pantone reveals that "mocha mousse" is 2025's colour of the year! 

PRESS REVIEW – Tuesday, December 10: Many European countries freeze asylum proceedings for Syrian refugees despite the uncertainty surrounding the country's future. Meanwhile, Bashar al-Assad's allies take stock, including Russia, desperate to maintain their military bases in Syria. Elsewhere, Luigi Mangione is arrested and charged with the murder of healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Finally, some civil servants in the UK could sue if they are not invited to Christmas parties by their colleagues.

PRESS REVIEW – Monday, December 9: The papers react to the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria. Meanwhile, the governing People Power Party in South Korea says that they will continue to rule, even after President Yoon Suk Yeol narrowly avoids being impeached ... much to the dismay of the main opposition party. Finally, the ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” sell at auction for a record $28 million.

PRESS REVIEW: Thursday, 5 December – the world’s press reacts to, revels in, and satirises the fresh chaos into which France has been plunged over the toppling of Michel Barnier’s government in a no-confidence vote Wednesday. We look at front pages and analysis, as well as what might lie ahead.

PRESS REVIEW – Wednesday, December 4: The Korean papers react to President Yoon Suk Yeol's decision to impose martial law with incredulity, as the opposition moves to impeach him. Meanwhile, television presenter Gregg Wallace faces fresh allegations of sexual misconduct. Also, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guéhi is criticised for adding a religious message to a rainbow armband, while others call the criticism hypocritical. Finally, “brain rot” is named Oxford Word of the Year 2024.

PRESS REVIEW – Tuesday, December 3: French Prime Minister Michel Barnier faces a fight for his job as two votes of no confidence will be held against him, plunging France into a deep political crisis. The New York Times reports from a Canadian Arctic town where the permafrost is thawing so rapidly that residents could become the first climate refugees. Also, Donald Trump jokes about annexing Canada and orcas are seen wearing dead salmon as hats – a bizarre trend last seen in the 1980s.