Japan’s Prince Hisahito reached adulthood this week in a ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, renewing debate over succession rules in the world’s oldest monarchy.
Hisahito, who attended a coming-of-age ceremony on Sept. 6, 2025, is second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne and widely expected to become emperor. After him, the imperial family has no remaining male heirs, highlighting the strain on Japan’s traditional male-only succession system and prompting renewed discussion about whether to reverse a 19th-century rule that bars women from serving as emperor.
In Mexico, authorities this week added a new instant coffee described as a “pure product” to the national "Food for Well-Being" strategy, part of an effort to offer nutritious, affordable food items while supporting domestic producers. Officials said the Wellness Coffee contains no additives, colorings or artificial flavors. Instant coffee is widely consumed in Mexico—about 84 percent of residents use it—but some instant brands can include as much as 30 percent non-coffee ingredients, according to the program.
Canadian author Margaret Atwood unveiled a short story this week that she said responds to a provincial education directive removing certain books, including her 1985 novel "The Handmaid’s Tale," from school libraries. Atwood said she wrote the satirical piece about two “very, very good children” in reaction to Alberta’s education ministry order to purge materials it deemed to contain explicit sexual content. The 1985 novel inspired the popular television adaptation starring Elisabeth Moss.
Australia’s government announced plans this week to ban apps used for stalking and creating deepfake nude images, measures officials said are aimed at curbing abusive technologies. The ban is slated to take effect by the end of the year, and social media platforms that fail to comply could face fines of up to A$50 million (about $32 million), the government said. "Abusive technologies are widely and easily accessible and are causing real and irreparable damage now," Communications Minister Anika Wells said. The package also includes legislation described by the government as the world’s first ban on minors using social media.
In Bolivia, an ancient pine tree in a cemetery in La Paz that was struck by lightning about a decade ago has become a site of popular devotion. Visitors now stuff coins, flowers, sweets and notes into its bark, and locals refer to it as the “miracle tree.” The site has drawn people from across the country who view the tree as a symbol of hope.
The week’s reports span dynastic concerns in Tokyo, policy shifts from public health to digital safety across the Americas and Oceania, cultural pushback in Canada and grassroots ritual in Bolivia. The items were compiled from international reporting and news wires.