The war in Sri Lanka ended tragically, amidst controversy. Many Sri Lankans and others around the world were relieved that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), renowned for its brutality, was defeated and that 27 years of armed conflict had come to an end. However, many people in Sri Lanka and elsewhere were deeply disturbed about the means used to achieve the victory by the country's armed forces.

The fountains have been cleaned, the lawns trimmed and giant Union Jack flags are flying in the wind -- it's one week from the royal wedding, and London is putting on its best face for William and Kate. Hundreds of thousands of well-wishers are expected for the wedding of Prince William and his long-term girlfriend Kate Middleton on April 29, not to mention the hundreds of VIPs invited to attend the ceremony at Westminster Abbey.