Grammy Award-winning rapper Cardi B appeared at a New York City court on Tuesday after failing to complete 15 days of mandatory community service over an assault at a New York City strip club.

Although Japan is the only G7 country where same-sex marriages are illegal, there have recently been some positive changes for the LGBT community. Last November, Tokyo's metropolitan government introduced partnership certificates that entitle gay couples to certain public services that were once reserved for straight couples.

The movie "Joyland" failed to make the Oscar nominations for best international feature film. But the first Pakistani film to be selected for the Cannes Film Festival is still making headlines. It tells the story of a married man who falls in love with a transgender erotic dancer.

Women in Saudi Arabia were banned from driving until 2018. Now, Saudi Arabian women are taking to motorsport in a big way at the country's first all-women motorsport event - the Rally Jameel.

A weekly news show produced with photos, videos and personal accounts from The FRANCE 24 Observers around the world - all checked by our staff here in Paris.

Greek authorities have arrested a railroad station master after a passenger train collision that killed dozens. Local media described the incident as the country's deadliest train accident.

Supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan confronted police outside his home in Lahore. Authorities have tried to arrest Khan, who has been entangled in a string of legal cases.

The two long-time foes say they will improve their relationship. If they do, the detente could have a major impact on politics in the Middle East.

With film shoots, star-studded festivals and modern studios, the conservative kingdom of Saudi Arabia is sparing no expense to become a land of cinema. Showcasing the wonders of Saudi Arabia on the big screen also helps attract tourists and project a modern image of the country, which is usually better known for its serious attacks on personal freedoms.

The ruling means Khan can now travel to Islamabad without being detained to face corruption charges. The former cricketer-turned-politician has been holed up in Lahore as his supporters clashed with police.

In an interview with FRANCE 24 after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, the court’s chief prosecutor Karim Khan said it was an important day for international justice. The warrant marked “the first time ever that a head of state from a P5 has been charged” by the international court, said Khan referring to the UN Security Council’s permanent five members.

In East African countries, people with diverse sexual orientations live in constant fear. Anti-LGBTQ rhetoric is on the rise in in the region as lawmakers in Uganda vote to pass new legislation to punish the community.