• Freedom of Speech Reaches 'New Low' in Junta-Ruled Thailand Despite Promises to Restore Democracy

  Thailand's military seized power last year with a promise to eventually restore democracy. But a crackdown against critics of the monarchy and junta suggest the country is locked on a darker trajectory, say U.N. officials and human rights activists.

  

• Salvation Is Free, Pope Francis Says in Speech Warning Against Holy Year Fraudsters

  Pope Francis on Wednesday warned Catholics against fraudsters who would have them pay to pass through "Holy Doors" at cathedrals around the world, a ritual in the Church's current Jubilee year.

  

• San Bernardino Terrorist Was Not Fully Investigated Before U.S. Visa was Issued, Officials Reveal

  U.S. authorities in Pakistan could have sought - but did not - a full background security investigation of San Bernardino shooter Tashfeen Malik before granting her a visa to enter the United States in 2014, according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter.

  

• Vatican Must Step Up Prosecutions of Financial Crimes, Says European Finance Watchdog

  The Vatican should be much more aggressive in dealing with people suspected of financial crimes like money laundering and step up prosecutions and indictments, a European finance watchdog agency said on Tuesday.

  

• Serena Williams Named Sports Illustrated's Sportsperson of The Year

  Serena Williams, who held all four of tennis's grand slam titles for the second time in her career and won 53 of 56 matches in 2015, was named Sportsperson of the Year by Sports Illustrated magazine on Monday.