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The World This Week
The World This Week #314
Elections in South Korea and Poland I China and the Pacific Island Countries I Bangladesh Election Announcement 2026
The World This Week #314 Vol 7, No 23, 08 June 2025

  GP Team
8 June 2025

South Korea’s Presidential Elections:
Instability to possible stability
Merin Treesa Alex

What happened?
On 3 June, Lee Jae Myung of the Democratic Party of Korea won the snap presidential elections with 49.3 per cent of the total votes. The Conservative party or the People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-Soo won 41.3 per cent of the votes. The voter turnout was around 79.4 per cent. Ahead of the main elections, south Korea held early elections from 29-30 May.

What is the background?
First, a brief note on South Korea’s presidential election. In 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol of the conservative People Power Party(PPP) defeated Lee Jae-Myung of the Democratic Party. The conservative party got 48.56 per cent votes, and Lee Jae-Myung got 47.83 per cent. South Korea’s president is elected directly for a single five-year term with no re-election eligibility, serves as head of state and government, commander-in-chief of the armed forces, and holds powers to declare war, appoint public officials, and enforce laws passed by the National Assembly.

Second, a brief note on the Presidential candidates. South Korea’s two major political parties are the progressive Democratic Party and the conservative People Power Party. Lee Jae-myung is a former human rights lawyer and governor of Gyeonggi Province. He opposed the martial law and called it “illegal” and “unconstitutional “He plans to increase research and development, and also AI investment, promote defence industries. He campaigned to reform the constitution to prevent future misuse of power, he proposed a four-year presidential term with two term presidencies. He also proposed equal economic policies for low- and middle-income families, balance ties with US and China and reduce tensions with North Korea through revised military agreements. Kim Moon-Soo was the labour minister during Yoon’s administration; he also served as the governor of Gyeonggi twice. He has an unclear stance on Yoon’s martial law. He proposed to boost business through deregulation, cut the taxes and also strengthen relations with US to restore the stability.

Third, a brief note on the previous president Yoon Suk Yeol. He declared emergency martial law on 3 December 2024, citing threats from anti-state forces and North Korea. The martial law was met with opposition from the National Assembly members; within six hours, the law was reversed with 190 members voting against it. The court on 4 April declared that the reason for declaring martial law did not meet the legal requirement, and  Yoon Suk Yeolwas removed from office. This triggered the snap elections, which are mandated by law. This is not the first time a President in South Korea is facing impeachment, the last time it was in 2016, when Park Geun-hye was found guilty of abusing her power and was sentenced to 24 years in prison, but was pardoned by Yoon in 2021.

Fourth, the major electoral issues. The political polarization and division following Yoon’s martial law led to months of uncertainty and a lack of confidence among the public.  US’s reciprocal tariffs of 25 per cent imposed on steel, aluminum and automobiles was also a concern for the voters. Further, the tensions with North Korea also intensified, with North Korea sending balloons filled with garbage to South Korea. In addition to that, decreasing birth rate was also one of the key issues.

What does it mean?
First, political stability would increase in South Korea, as the new president pledged to revise the presidential term to a two-term system with a midterm evaluation to keep the president’s role in check. He also aims to decentralize executive power and increase the power of the National Assembly, giving it the authority to nominate the prime minister.

Second, economic recovery is possible under this government with its pro-market policies and the investment in the AI sector and research and development, can lead to growth in economy and innovation, especially in the technology sector.

Poland's Presidential Elections:
The political tightrope ahead
Lekshmi M K

What happened?
On 01 June, second round of Presidential elections took place where Karol Nawrocki won  50.89 per cent of the total votes.  His competitor, Rafal Trzaskowski won 49.11 percent of the total votes.

What is the background?
First, a brief note on Poland’s presidential elections. On 20 May, Poland's National Electoral Commission announced the results for first-round of presidential elections held on 18 May.  The election seen a voter turnout of 67.31 per cent. Rafał Trzaskowski, the incumbent Mayor of Warsaw from the centrist-Civic Coalition (KO) led with 31.36 per cent votes. The independent candidate Karol Nawrocki backed by the nationalist-Law and Justice party (PiS) followed closely with 29.54 per cent, followed by far-right candidates Sławomir Mentzen and Grzegorz Braun gaining significant support. Both collectively received 20 per cent of the total votes. As no candidate could achieve 50 per cent, a second-round of elections scheduled on 1 June.

Second, a brief note on the candidates. Karol Nawrocki is an emerging conservative politician affiliated with the Law and Justice (PiS) party. He is a historian and known for his conservative and nationalist positions, including opposition to illegal immigration and skepticism towards the European Union. Nawrocki was aligned with nationalist and conservative both domestically and internationally. Rafał Trzaskowski is a Polish liberal politician and the Mayor of Warsaw since 2018. He belongs to the Civic Coalition (KO) and is known for his pro-European Union stance and support for civil rights. He narrowly lost the 2020 election and again in 2025, both times in the runoff.

Third, the major electoral issues. People were discontent over political issues such as judicial reforms, media control, and disagreements with the EU which eventually fueled conservative narratives about national sovereignty. Economic grievances especially rising inflation, housing costs, and rural-urban disparity amplified calls for leadership that promised economic protection and welfare targeting the countryside.

What does it mean?
First, a potential deadlock in parliament. Nawrocki’s presidency may lead to increased political deadlock, as his conservative Law and Justice (PiS)-aligned stance could clash with the more centrist or liberal policies of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s coalition. The President’s veto power may block key reforms, including judiciary, media freedom, and EU cooperation. In anticipation of these challenges, Tusk recently called for a vote of confidence in Parliament to reaffirm support for his government. This move reflects both the rising tension and the fragile balance of power.

Second, the rural voter base for Nawrocki’s and its implications. Many voters in the rural areas are worried about the economic impact of Poland’s involvement in the Ukraine war, as local agriculture and small industries face rising costs and uncertainties. Nawrocki’s cautious approach to the conflict appealed to these voters, who prioritized economic stability and want to avoid further hardships.

Third, the rise of right-wing populism in Poland and the EU response.  In recent years, Poland and several EU countries have seen growing support for right-wing populist movements that emphasize nationalism, traditional values, and skepticism toward immigration and the European Union. In Poland, this shift reflects concerns over economic inequality, cultural identity, and dissatisfaction with liberal policies.

Global Politics Explainer
Eleven PIC sign a joint statement with China 
Lekshmi MK

On 29 May 2025, a joint statement was issued during the Third China–Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Xiamen, China. During the discussions, China's allegiance with Pacific Island Countries (PICs) reflected the One-China principle and the extension of the Belt and Road Initiative. The PICs support China’s approach for strategic partnership, mutual development and regional stability.

Who are the Pacific Island Countries?  
First, the Pacific Island Countries (PICs) comprise fourteen countries located in the Pacific Ocean. Three ethnogeographic groupings of PICs are Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. Melanesia comprises Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu; Micronesia comprises Palau, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and Nauru; and Polynesia comprises Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, Niue, and Kiribati. 

Second, eleven out of the fourteen PICs are independent and democratic countries. The Cook Islands and Niue are self-governing in association with New Zealand. The Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands are independent but have an association with the United States. PICs diaspora is significant in New Zealand, Australia, the United States, France and the United Kingdom, despite their smaller population. 

Third, the Pacific Island Countries are members of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), which serves as an intergovernmental organisation that unites Pacific nations. This forum serves to address pressing challenges, promote cooperation, and enhnce shared economic, political, and social goals.  

What is the history of PIC-China relations?  
The political relations commenced in the late 1970s and 1980s, when China established diplomatic ties with Pacific Island Countries (PICs). China later became a Dialogue Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum in 1990. In 2006, the relationship was formalised through the China–Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meetings. In 2019, the second meeting emphasised cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The third meeting, held in May 2025 in Xiamen, was attended by 11 of the 14 PICs, excluding Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. PICs expressed their support to China's One-China principle by acknowledging Taiwan as part of China. PICs welcomed China’s initiatives, aligning it with their own regional strategies like the 2050 Blue Pacific Continent vision.   

Second, the economic relations between China and PICs. Between 1992 and 2021, the trade value between China and PICs increased from USD 153 million to 5.3 billion. By the end of 2021, China's investment in PICs increased to 2.72 billion USD. China has implemented plant projects, grant loans, technical assistance and aiding in building infrastructure such as roads, bridges, hospitals, schools and stadiums. At the 2025 meeting, China pledged support for 200 "small but beautiful" development projects, two million USD in climate assistance, enhanced disaster management, and greater access to its markets. It also proposed cooperation in law enforcement, education, health, tourism, and media diplomacy. China emphasized that its aid is given without political conditions.  

Third, cultural relations. As most of the influence were dominated by the Anglo-Pacific and Franco-Pacific relationships, informal people-to-people interactions were minimal before 1970s. China is expanding cooperation in education, health, law enforcement, tourism, media, and public diplomacy. PICs have shown interest in deepening cultural ties and human resource exchanges, supporting mutual understanding and partnership.  

What is China’s interest in PICs and vice versa?  
First, strategic interests. PICs located in the heart of the Indo-Pacific offer China opportunities to expand its regional influence and counterbalance the United States and Australia. Engaging with China, diversifying the international partnerships for the PICs. This diversification reduces the over-reliance on any single bloc and enhances the multipolar approach. Second, economic interests. Access to natural resources is a significant incentive for China. The development assistance and infrastructure financing provided by China help guarantee access to natural resources like fisheries, timber, and deep-sea minerals. PICs are gaining from increased connectivity, jobs, market access under China's BRI. Additionally, PICs are exporting seafood and agricultural products to provide China's growing consumer base. Third, political interests. China seeks diplomatic support from the PICs, especially on sensitive issues like Taiwan. Despite being small, each PIC has a vote in international organizations like the UN, and their support bolsters China’s global standing and legitimacy. China presents itself as a reliable development partner, often providing aid without political conditions. This appeals to many PICs, who see China as offering viable alternatives to traditional donors. PICs gain international visibility by engaging with China. PICs use their votes to gain extra benefits in multilateral organisations and global governance.  

How are the rest responding to the China–PIC relationship?  
China's growing engagement with Pacific Island Countries (PICs) is prompting responses from several other nations. The US sees this relationship as an "imminent threat" from China. US has increased aid, diplomatic visits and defense cooperation with PICs to counter global repercussions. Australia and New Zealand emphasise greater transparency from China regarding its military activities by expressing their concerns over China's military buildup. To counter the Chinese influence. France wants to strengthen regional ties through defense and cultural diplomacy.
 

Global Politics Explainer
Bangladesh Elections 2026:
Who Wants What, When and Why?
Emma Rose Boby

On 7 June, Chief Advisor Yunus stated, “The government has held discussions with all parties to organise the most free, fair, competitive and acceptable elections in history. In addition, after reviewing the ongoing reform activities related to justice, reform and elections, I am announcing to the people of the country today that the next national elections will be held on a day in the first half of April 2026.” However, the BNP has strongly condemned this and are insisting on the elections being conducted in December, stating that Ramadan, key school examinations and weather conditions might be used to further delay the elections in April.

On 2 June, the Election Commission restored the registration of the Jamaat-e-Islami on orders of the Supreme Court. The party had been barred from contesting elections since 2013 as they were allegedly incompatible with the country’s constitution. Earlier, on 10 May, the interim government banned all political activities by the Awami League under the Anti-Terrorism Act. The government claimed that it was done to safeguard national security and sovereignty

On 23 May, Chief Advisor Muhammed Yunus threatened to resign due to the lack of agreement on political reforms, but later agreed to continue after a discussion with a few student leaders and political parties.

On 21 May, Bangladesh’s Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated, “Bangladesh needs political stability. This is only possible through an elected government, not by unelected decision-makers” and pushed for the elections to be conducted in December claiming that prolonged deployment of the Army could compromise the defence of the country.  

What are the issues?
First, the interim government’s prioritization of political reforms over early elections. After Sheikh Hasina’s exit, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus set out to establish a fair electoral system through six political reforms that would strengthen the institutions. It would also reform the police and the Anti-Corruption Commission. According to Yunus, this was essential to prevent the emergence of fascism or authoritarianism. The reforms were set to be implemented on 1 October 2024, with the help of individual commissions, and they were expected to finish their jobs after three months, after which a comprehensive consultation would be held with members of various political parties, civil society and the interim government as well. These reforms have reportedly failed because of the lack of cooperation from political parties.

Second, the demand for elections by the political parties and the divide over the date. Initially, the elections were to be held in late 2024 or early 2025. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has been the primary opposition to the Awami League since its formation. In 2013, along with the Jamaat-e-Islami, the two threatened to boycott the elections to change election laws. In 2018, the BNP posed no threat to the Awami League. However, after the 2024 elections and the Monsoon protests, the BNP returned to the framework and consolidated its standing. The BNP has been consistently pushing for the elections to be conducted earlier. The party feels an earlier election will secure a comfortable majority.

The Jamaat-e-Islami has now become the BNP’s primary opposition. The party has its ideological roots in Pakistan but was barred from contesting elections since 2013 due to its incompatibility with the constitution and for its role in the War of Liberation 1971. The Jamaat-e-Islami is willing to comply with the interim government’s decision to hold off the election,s as it would give the time needed to stabilize and expand before the elections. 

The military wants elections to be conducted at the earliest. According to Chief Army General Zaman, the highest priority for Bangladesh right now is returning to an electoral democracy. After a closed-door meeting on 21 May, the officer corps claimed that they were willing to “act upon command” and that they too shared concerns over decisions being taken by the interim government, allegedly without the armed forces being briefed.

The students seem to be in favour of the interim administration. The National Citizen Party (NCP), led by Nahid Islam, a former member of Yunus’ cabinet, has been pivotal in influencing the youth in Bangladesh, with their priority being reforming Bangladesh and not the elections. General Zaman received backlash on social media by youth influencers in Bangladesh for his comments against Yunus.

Finally, the rest of Bangladesh. In a survey conducted by Innovision Consulting, titled “People’s Election Pulse: Feb-March 2025,” 65 per cent of voters showcased a preference for the BNP, with the Jamaat-e-Islami having 32 per cent. 

Outside the above, there has been an increase in communal violence and crime rates, with Operation Devil Hunt not reporting any success. Independent journalism is facing a crisis with 640 journalists being allegedly targeted since Yunus’ rise to power. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has also criticized their banning of the Awami League as it goes against fundamental freedoms with citizens voicing out similar concerns. There have also been protests against the interim government by public servants and teachers for wage cuts and layoffs.

There is a growing concern that Chief Advisor Yunus is delaying the election. A section within and outside is questioning the action against the Awami League. 

Most of the working class seem to be in favour of the BNP, while the army does not want to actively involve itself in Bangladeshi politics.

TWTW Regional Roundups

News from around the world
Padmashree Anandhan, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, Rohini Reenum, Femy Francis, Anu Maria Joseph, R Preetha, Brighty Ann Sarah, Ananya Dinesh, Gauri Gupta, Yamini Jagadish, Merin Treesa Alex, Lekshmi M.K, Kejia Reddy, Santhiya. M, and Rizwana S Banu

CHINA THIS WEEK
China: Looks to install first commercial small modular nuclear reactor for reducing carbon emissions
On 30 May, Interesting Engineering reported that China’s first commercial small modular nuclear reactor, Linglong-1, is in the final installation phase. It is the world's first land-based small modular reactor. It is expected to play a key role in reducing China’s carbon emissions.  Also known as ACP100, this is a third-generation small pressurized water reactor. In 2016, it became the first Small Modular Reactor to pass a safety review by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Each Lianglong-1 reactor can produce 125,00o kilowatts of electricity, which is enough to power 526,000 homes. It is expected to power the Hainan Free Trade Port and help China become carbon-neutral before 2060.

China: To host Second Belt and Road Conference on S&T for promoting technological opening and cooperation 
On 03 June, Global Times reported that the Second Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology exchange will take place from 10-12 June in China’s Sichuan Province, Chengdu. Participants from over 100 countries and international organisations are set to attend. China’s Ministry of Science and Technology Vice Minister Chen Jiachang stated that the conference aims to promote technological opening up and cooperation, guided by the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind. He added that the conference will advance the implementation of the International Science and Technology Cooperation Initiative and provide an international platform for tech exchanges in areas such as youth scientist communications, policy dialogue, cutting-edge area exchanges, and industrial technology synergy. It aims to strengthen consensus, enhance cooperation, and promote cross-sectoral and cross-regional collaboration among Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) participating countries.

China: EU bans Chinese manufacturers from accessing its public procurement tenders
On 02 June, the European Union agreed on restricting Chinese medical device manufacturers from accessing its public procurement tenders worth over USD 5.2 million for the next five years. This marks the first use of the EU’s International Procurement Instrument (IPI), which aims to counteract unfair trade practices by ensuring reciprocity in market access. European Commission investigation reveals that 87 per cent of Chinese public tenders for medical devices contain explicit or implicit restrictions against imported products, effectively favoring domestic suppliers. The EU highlights Beijing’s “Buy China” policies, especially in high-end medical devices, which are targeted in China’s “Made in China 2025” plan. This policy sets ambitious goals for domestically produced devices to make up 50 per cent of county hospital usage by 2020, rising to 70 per cent by 2025, and 90 per cent by 2030. Such measures create significant barriers for EU firms trying to enter the Chinese market, while Chinese manufacturers face comparatively fewer restrictions in Europe.

China: Rolls out “ASEAN visa” for 10 member states
On 03 June, China introduced a new “ASEAN visa” that offers five-year, multiple-entry permits to citizens of the 10 ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. This initiative aims to facilitate business travel and strengthen regional ties. The visa allows a maximum stay of 180 days and extends to the applicants' spouses and children. This move aligns with China's broader strategy to enhance connectivity and cooperation within the region. In addition to the ASEAN visa, China has expanded its visa-free policy to include citizens from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay, effective 01 June. This brings the total number of countries with visa-free access to China to 43. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported a significant increase in international engagement. In the first quarter, over 9 million foreign visits were recorded, marking 40 per cent year-on-year. Furthermore, more than 18,000 foreign-invested enterprises were established in China during the first four months, reflecting a 12.1 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

China: “The world will never forget the Tiananmen Square massacre,” says US secretary of State
On 04 June, the US Secretary of State stated that the world will never forget the Tiananmen Square massacre. US Secretary of StateMarco Rubio said in a statement: “Today we commemorate the bravery of the Chinese people who were killed as they tried to exercise their fundamental freedoms, as well as those who continue to suffer persecution as they seek accountability and justice for the events of June 4, 1989.” In response, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian said: “Erroneous statements by the US side maliciously distort historical facts, deliberately attack China’s political system and developmental path, and seriously interfere in China’s internal affairs.” Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te praised the bravery of the protestors and said: “Authoritarian governments often choose to silence and forget history, while democratic societies choose to preserve the truth and refuse to forget those who gave their lives – and their dreams – to the idea of human rights.” The People’s Liberation Army opened fire on the unarmed peaceful protestors at the pro-democracy demonstrations held in Tiananmen Square. It resulted in the massacre of numerous protestors and bystanders in Beijing. The government arrested thousands of protestors and executed many.  

SOUTHEAST AND SOUTH ASIA
Singapore: PM Wong aims to deepen collaborations on energy, healthcare, and sustainability with Philippines
On 05 June, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong met Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila. Both leaders, in a joint conference at the Malacanang Palace, have signed agreements that will deepen their collaboration in various sectors, including renewable energy, healthcare, civil services, and sustainability. Wong expressed his gratitude for the invitation to Manila and said that the bilateral relationship between them has never been better.

Bangladesh: Interim government releases BDT 7.9 trillion budget for FY26
On 2 June, The Daily Star reported that, Bangladesh interim government led by Muhammad Yunus approved national budget of  BDT 7.9 trillion for the financial year 2026. This also includes the tax reliefs up to BDT 5.25 lakhs for people who were involved in the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina government in July 2024.

Bangladesh: International Crimes Tribunal initiates crime against humanity charges on Sheikh Hasina
On 2 June , The Daily Star reported that, the International crime Tribunal pressed charges against the deposed prime minster, Sheikh Hasina and two of her top aides, accusing of crime against humanity. The tribunal set next hearing on 16 June and ordered the trio to be produced before it.

Bangladesh: New bank notes drop Sheikh Mujibur Rahman portrait
On 2 June, The Daily Star reported that the interim government circulated new notes in the banks. New currencies do not include Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait but instead have pictures of historic temples, mosques and landmarks.

Pakistan: PTI sends names for the parliamentary committee which will appoint the next Chief Election Commissioner
On 5 June, PTI submitted the names of national assembly and senate members who would be a part of the parliamentary committee which would be appointing the chief of Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and the other two members of ECP. PTI has urged the federal government to start the process of formulating the parliamentary committee for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). PTI nominated Asad Qaiser, Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Sardar Latif Khosa and Barrister Gohar Ali Khan who are members of the national assembly. From the Senate, PTI nominated Shibli Faraz and Raja Nasir. The nomination of names by the PTI came after PM Sharif reached out to the opposition for convening a meeting on appointing the next CEC. The current CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja and the other two members of ECP completed his five-year tenure on 26 January 2025. For appointing the CEC, PM Sharif and PTI’s Omar Ayub would submit three names for the President to choose from. However, if the two are unable to reach consensus regarding the three names, they would have to send their preferred names to the parliamentary committee. The committee would then submit one name to the President for his assent.

Pakistan: PM Sharif begins his “two-day visit” to Saudi Arabia; to discuss bilateral trade and investments
On 5 June, PM Sharif would begin his “two-day visit” to Saudi Arabia. As per The Express Tribune, PM Sharif would thank the leaders of Saudi Arabia for playing a crucial part in diffusing tensions between India and Pakistan. As per the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PM Sharif would be meeting Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman for a discussion. The two sides are expected to deliberate upon bilateral “trade and investment” and furthering the “welfare of Muslim Ummah.” Previously, PM Sharif visited four countries- Iran, Turkiye, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan, following the military confrontation with India.

Pakistan: Labels militants based in Balochistan as “Fitna-al-Hindustan” to highlight India’s alleged support to the groups
On 31 May, the federal government announced that all militant organizations based in Balochistan would be labelled as “Fitna-al-Hindustan.” As per the Ministry of Interior, militant groups are engaging in violent attacks on the directions from India. The Ministry sees the same as damaging to “Islamic faith” and “sovereignty” of the country.  

On the same day, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Asim Munir attended a “grand jirga” in Quetta. The objective of the gathering was to have a discussion with the tribal elders of Balochistan regarding the alleged support from India to the militants in the province. The COAS claimed to possess “concrete evidence” that would substantiate India’s role in aiding the “terrorist networks” in the province. He asserted that peace in the province is “non-negotiable” and that the future of the country is connected with stability in Balochistan. PM Sharif also attended the “grand jirga” in Quetta. In his address, he warned that “terrorists in Balochistan must not be tolerated by the public, government or armed forces.” He called for steps to bring the militants on the right path, claiming they were “misled.” He claimed that “economic and social injustices” would not take place in the province under his party’s reign. He also informed the province would get PKR 250 billion as “development funds.”     

AFRICA THIS WEEK
Africa: African Union raises worries over new travel ban by the US
On 05 June, Africanews reported on the concerns raised by the African Union (AU)  about the new travel ban imposed by US President Donald Trump. As per Africanews, the new travel ban could impact the diplomatic relationship between Africa and the US. The travel ban would affect  seven countries in Africa, include Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia and Sudan. The three countries which face travel restrictions include Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Togo. 

Burundi: Goes into elections amid political tensions and economic challenges.
On 06 June, the BBC reported that people of Burundi were gearing up to  vote amid inflation, fuel shortages, and political suppression. Elections would be held for the seats in the national assembly and local councils. The President, Évariste Ndayishimiye, would continue his term until 2027, as he is serving a seven-year term. As per the BBC,  the  elections will test the popularity of the ruling party, CNDD-FDD, which has been in power for the past 20 years and was also once a rebel group. There have also been accusations of harassment and intimidation about the party's youth league, the Imbonerakure, by opposition parties. 

DRC: Government bans reporting on former President Kabila and his party members
On 04 June 2025, BBC reported that the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government had banned reporting on the activities and interviews of former President Joseph Kabila and party members. This followed his return to the country, after which he experienced tensions with the government. There are accusations of treason and an alleged connection to the M23 rebels, because of which authorities are pushing for the prosecution of Kabila. The country’s media regulator stated that the media house would be suspended in the event of a breach of the ban. The M23 spokesperson has announced that the ban is not effective for media houses operating in the part of the country under M23 control. There was no response from Kabila, but the secretary of this party has posted on social media that the ban is “arbitrary.”

Egypt: Leaders of the UN, Iran and Egypt address Iran’s nuclear program
On 02 June, leaders from Iran, Egypt and the UN met in Cairo to discuss Iran’s nuclear program. As per the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) r Iran is increasing the storage of enriched uranium to near weapons-grade levels This follows the negotiations between the Trump Administration and Iran over a potential nuclear deal. 

South Africa: The US welcomes the arrival of the second group of Afrikaners
On 02 June, a second group of Afrikaners, a relatively small group, arrived in the US. The first batch came to the US in May, as they claimed to be prosecuted in South Africa. Around 8000 Afrikaners will relocate to the US over the next few months. In February, US President Trump halted all aid to South Africa, followed by Ramaphosa’s land expropriation law. Trump claimed that they all were the victims of genocide, however, South Africa has repeatedly rejected Trump’s claims. 

Sudan: More than four million fled Sudan amid the Sudan conflict, says UN refugee agency
On 03 June Reuters reported that since April 2023, ‘the beginning of the Sudanese civil war, more than four million people fled Sudan, and many were facing inadequate shelter and food due to the aid cut. It is in the third year, and Sudan is now facing the worst humanitarian and displacement crisis,’ said the UN refugee agency. More than 800,000 refugees went to Chad but faced the same problems. Most of the refugees underwent violent attacks and humiliation during their escape. 

Chad: Chad halts the issuance of visas amid the US travel ban
On 05 June, Chad suspended all visas for US citizens. This follows the travel ban announced by the US President Donald Trump on 12 countries, of which seven were from Africa, including Chad. President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno said that he just acted under the principle of reciprocity and added that “Chad has no planes to offer, no billions of dollars to give, but Chad has pride and dignity.” 

EUROPE THIS WEEK
Poland: Prime Minister Donald Tusk to seek confidence vote 
On 02 June, the Conservative candidate Karol Nawrocki won Poland's presidential runoff with 50.89 per cent of the total votes defeating liberal, pro-EU candidate Rafał Trzaskowski, an ally of Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Following the election, Prime Minister Tusk announced he would request a parliamentary vote of confidence in his coalition government to reaffirm his mandate. The election result politically weakened Tusk. The results raised questions about the durability of his multi-party coalition, which is scheduled to govern until late 2027. In a speech, Tusk expressed willingness to cooperate with the newly elected President where necessary and possible. 

Germany: Chancellor Merz meets President Trump to mend transatlantic ties amid global tensions  
On 04 June, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met US President Donald Trump in Washington. Merz addressed concerns such as Germany’s military spending plans and tightened immigration. The discussions would centered on Ukraine, Middle East policy, and trade. The discussions also included disputes over defense spending, Ukraine, and trade tariffs. The meeting's outcome could influence relations ahead of the upcoming G7 and NATO summits.

The EU: EU and US hold crucial trade talks amid rising tariff tensions
On 04 June, the European Union Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Paris. The meeting was scheduled amid the rising tension between US and the EU after the former announced increased tariffs on EU steel and aluminum. The EU expressed its intentions to impose countermeasures in case of the failure of dialogue. The EU is considering retaliatory tariff on US products like agricultural goods and consumer items.

The UN: German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock elected as President of UNGA amidst opposition from Russia   
On 02 June, Germany's Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, was elected as the President of the United Nations General Assembly. Russia had requested a secret ballot to oppose her candidacy, however, Baerbock surpassed the majority by securing 167 votes in the secret ballot. In her acceptance speech, under the theme "Better Together," Baerbock emphasized unity and cooperation amidst the armed conflicts, climate crisis, poverty, and institutional inadequacies. Baerbock prepared to assume her role during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2025. Russia expressed its criticisms for her anti-Russia bias and questioned her ability to act impartially as a President of the General Assembly.

About the Authors
Lekshmi M. K. is a postgraduate student in the Department of Political Science at Madras Christian College. Merin Treesa Alex, is a postgraduate student in the department of International Studies at Stella Maris College, Chennai. They are Research Interns at National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS). Emma Rose Boby is a student at the Department of International Relations, Peace and Public Policy in St Joseph’s University, Bengaluru. She is a part of the NIAS Online Course on Contemporary South Asia. Fleur Elizabeth Philip is a Research Assistant at NIAS. Padmashree Anandhan is a Project Associate at NIAS. Rohini Reenum is a Doctoral Student at NIAS. Femy Francis and Anu Maria Joseph are Project Associates at NIAS. Gauri Gupta, Aashish Ganeshan,  Farhaz Rashid Ahmed, Ananya Dinesh, R Preetha, Brighty Ann Sarah, Merin Treesa, Aparna A Nair Alex, Santhiya. M, Lekshmi M.K, Rizwana S Banu, Yamini Jagadish and Kejia Reddy are Research interns at NIAS. 

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