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The World Today #258, 19 February 2026
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Global Politics Team
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The World Today
The US and Iran: Washington intensifies military buildup in the Middle East, full forces to be in place by mid-March; Iran expected to submit a written proposal on how to resolve the current standoff within two weeks
On 19 February, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt informed that President Trump has ordered a major military buildup in the region, signalling that military options remain under consideration if diplomacy fails. Full forces are expected to be in place by mid-March, including a second aircraft carrier. White House officials warned that "reasons and arguments that one could make for a strike against Iran," but that diplomacy is always the first option. Russia also warned against escalation, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov cautioning that any new US strike could have severe consequences. Iran is expected to submit a written proposal on how to resolve the current standoff with the US within two weeks.
The War in Gaza: President Trump to preside over the Board of Peace inaugural meeting; Hamas tightens administrative control in Gaza, reports Reuters
On 19 February, President Trump will preside over the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace with representatives from over 45 countries in attendance. He will also announce the USD 5 billion raised by partner countries towards reconstruction and the scope for deploying stabilisation forces in Gaza. An Israeli military assessment revealed that Hamas is tightening its grip on Gaza by appointing loyalists to key government posts, collecting taxes and paying salaries."Hamas is advancing steps on the ground meant to preserve its influence and grip in the Gaza Strip 'from the bottom up' by means of integrating its supporters in government offices, security apparatuses and local authorities," the military said in a document presented to Prime Minister Netanyahu. Hamas stated it is prepared to transfer Gaza’s administration to the US-backed committee of Palestinian technocrats led by former Palestinian Authority official Ali Shaath, but claims Israel has not allowed members to enter the enclave to take up their roles, however Israeli officials dismissed any future role for the group as a “twisted fantasy,” insisting Hamas is finished as a governing authority in Gaza. Hamas has appointed five district governors, all reportedly linked to its armed al-Qassam Brigades, and also replaced senior officials in the economy and interior ministries, which oversee taxation and security, reported Reuters.
The US: Trump administration extends ICE detention authority over refugees
On 19 February, Reuters reported that Trump’s administration has authorized broader detention powers for immigration officers to hold legal refugees awaiting green cards for renewed screening, according to a memo from the US Department of Homeland Security filed in federal court on 18 February. The memo requires refugees to return to government custody for “inspection and examination” one year after admission to the US, aligning post-admission vetting with other applicants. Refugees are required to apply for lawful permanent resident status after one year, as per US law. The directive authorizes detention during the re-inspection process and marks a shift from a 2010 policy stating that failure to obtain permanent residency was not grounds for removal or detention. Refugee groups, including AfghanEvac and HIAS, called the policy a “reckless reversal” that would cause “grave harm” to refugees. Immigration detention under Trump has risen to about 68,000 people this month, up roughly 75 per cent from when he took office last year, according to government data. In January, US District Judge John Tunheim temporarily blocked a related policy affecting about 5,600 refugees in Minnesota, citing likely violations of federal statutes.
Peru: Congress elects Jose Maria Balcazar as interim president amid political turmoil
On 19 February, Peru’s Congress elected Jose Maria Balcazar as interim president. This was following the removal of his predecessor amid allegations of irregular contracting and political controversy. Balcazar, an 83-year-old lawmaker from the left-wing Peru Libre party, secured the presidency in a second-round congressional vote, defeating right-leaning candidate Maria del Carmen Alva. He is expected to serve for five months until the national elections scheduled for April. The vote followed a brief leadership vacuum and reflects ongoing institutional instability in the country. The change in leadership marks yet another transition in Peru’s executive office in recent years. It also underscored persistent political fragmentation and governance challenges. Lawmakers moved quickly to fill the leadership gap to ensure continuity of government operations. Authorities have indicated that maintaining administrative stability and preparing for the upcoming elections will be immediate priorities.
Syria: Turkey’s Parliament approves roadmap for peace process
On 19 February, a Turkish parliamentary commission approved a report which sets out a roadmap for legal reforms alongside the disbandment of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which is designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US and the EU. The commission voted overwhelmingly to approve the report, designed to end decades of conflict. The parliamentary vote shifts the peace process to the legislative theatre as President Erdogan bids to end a conflict focused mainly in southeast Turkey. A key element of the report is its recommendation to strengthen mechanisms to ensure compliance with the European Court of Human Rights and the Constitutional Court. The PKK complained that while there were foundations for resolving the Kurdish issue, there was a lack of clarity in the report regarding initiating constitutional amendments related to the Kurdish language, the anti-terrorism law and the return of PKK militants to Turkey and their integration into society.
The Indian Neighbourhood Today
Bangladesh: Dhaka to pursue ‘Bangladesh first’ policy in diplomacy, says Shama Obaed
On 19 February, The Daily Star reported that the new government would pursue a “Bangladesh First” policy in its engagement with other nations, in its article covering the highlights of State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam's press briefing. Shama stated: "For a long time, our backbone was not straight. Now we have come with the people’s mandate, and we will move forward with confidence." She further added that the new government's diplomacy would be guided by the principle of “Bangladesh first,” placing national interests and citizens’ welfare at the centre of all foreign engagements. Responding to a query about ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s stay in India and related diplomatic correspondence, she said the matter remains under process and will be reviewed by the ministry. Asked about the interim government’s reported policy position regarding deployment of Bangladeshi troops to Gaza, she said the issue has not yet been discussed at the political level.“ Such political decisions will be discussed and taken in due course,” she said. On relations with India, China and the United States she stated: "We will maintain relations with all states and governments. Our foremost priority is to safeguard the interests of Bangladesh and its people." On visa restrictions imposed by several countries, Shama said the ministry is aware of the challenges and is actively working to resolve them through diplomatic channels.
Bangladesh and the US: President Trump writes to PM Rahman
On 19 February, The Daily Star reported that the US President wrote to the newly elected Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Thariq Rahman, congratulating him on his victory and on strengthening ties between the two nations. US President wrote: "On behalf of the American people, I congratulate you on your historic election and wish you a successful term as Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh,” he added that “The partnership between our countries is based on mutual respect and a shared interest in fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific where strong, sovereign nations can prosper." Further he expects PM Rahman to "maintain the tremendous momentum in US-Bangladesh trade relations through the implementation of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, which benefits farmers and workers in both countries," and I also hope you will take decisive action to complete the routine defence agreements that would finally give your military access to high-end, American-made equipment -- the best in the world!,” President Trump wrote.
Myanmar: Mizoram closes border crossings, following driver's death
On 19 February, Mizzima reported that the Mizoram government had ordered a two-month temporary closure of border crossings with Myanmar effective from 16 February, citing significant security concerns. The decision, issued by the Lawngtlai District magistrate, follows the death of Lalramsanga, a 37-year-old driver from Mizoram who was found dead in Shin Letwa village, located in Myanmar’s Paletwa Township. Local traders have voiced immediate concern over the impact of the closure, warning of imminent supply shortages and price hikes in Myanmar’s Chin and Rakhine States. Perishable goods, including potatoes, onions, and tomatoes, are already at risk of spoilage, while shipments of dry goods, fuel, and rice remain stranded at the border.
Myanmar: National Unity Government and Burma National Revolutionary Army forces clash
On 19 February, Mizzima reported that a clash broke out between the National Unity Government and the Burma National Revolutionary Army (BNRA) in Pale Township, Sagaing Region, on 16 February. Residents from several nearby villages, including Kyarsi and Maungtong, have been forced to flee their homes as gunfire and explosions echoed through the area. Leader of BNRA, Bo Nagar, stated on social media that NUG Ministry of Defence battalions began attacking BNRA checkpoints with artillery and drones starting around 19:30 hours. Meanwhile, NUG spokesperson, U Nay Phone Latt, informed Mizzima that the Ministries of Home Affairs and Defence are cooperating to investigate and arrest members of the BNRA for alleged crimes.
Bhutan: Thimphu witnesses a surge in unsettling crimes
On 18 February, the Kuensel reported a sudden surge in unsettling crimes witnessed in Bhutan in 2025. A 1.31 kg gold karmi kom (a butter lamp) worth over 12 million BTN was stolen from Takila Guru Lhakhang, with two former monks arrested. Substance abuse cases witnessed a slight decline to just above 1,500 in 2025, though illegal possession rose marginally. 520 battery incidents and around 430 domestic violence cases were registered. Road accidents surged to 1,450 in 2025, with fatalities rising to 102. 318 scam cases caused losses of BTN 37.08 million, while cybercrime reached 469 cases since 2022. There were 422 deaths by suicide recorded between 2022 and 2025.
Sri Lanka: Air Force fleet to be modernised
On 19 February, The Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) is moving ahead with a multi-billion-rupee fleet modernisation programme, involving the acquisition of new aircraft and the refurbishment of existing platforms. The Air Force’s plans to upgrade are reported to cost USD 18 million. This upgradation coincides with the Sri Lankan Air Force’s 75th anniversary. Authorities say the need arises to address the operational and maintenance challenges faced by ageing equipment. For President Dissanayake’s administration, this projects institutional strengthening and momentum beyond austerity measures to mitigate the 2022 financial crisis.
Maldives: Government push for election synchronisation framed as fiscal reform
On 19 February, The Sun reported that the Maldivian administration under President Mohamed Muizzu has intensified political messaging around the constitutional referendum to merge presidential and parliamentary elections, presenting it primarily as an economic governance reform rather than just an electoral change. Authorities say the reform could save USD 8 million in election costs, reducing the burden on the exchequer. Critics, however, highlight a compromise of a check and balances mechanism and fair competition amongst political parties.
Afghanistan: “Limited” domestic abuse approved by the Taliban regime
On 19 February, Minute Mirror reported via several foreign media reports that the Taliban government has enacted a criminal code that allows a certain degree of domestic abuse against women and children. The code requires that a woman prove the incident of abuse in court, and, upon succeeding, a maximum prison sentence of 15 days will be imposed. Any injuries that are meant to be proof of the violence must be presented to the judge while also ensuring that the body is fully covered. It is important to note that, under Article nine of the Afghan law, the severity of punishment depends more on the perpetrator’s social class than on the extent of the crime. Women who meet their relatives without the husband’s permission, however, can face a prison term of up to 3 months. The new criminal code has been formally signed by the Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.
Iran: Tension grows in the US-Iran ties
On 19 February, Al Jazeera reported that new threats had been issued by the United States to Iran after a second round of talks regarding Tehran’s nuclear capabilities and enrichment levels. Meanwhile, Russia announced joint naval drills in the Sea of Oman with Iran, saying it hopes to deter any “unilateral action” in the region. The talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman, ended without a significant breakthrough, and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt urged Tehran to reach a deal with US President Trump. These developments follow the incidents of the previous year when Israel attacked Iran over a period of 12 days, and was also joined by the US, which targeted key nuclear sites. Trump warned that military facilities in the Chagos Islands may also be employed in this conflict.
Afghanistan and Pakistan: Detainees released ahead of Ramadan
On 19 February, Arab News reported that detainees of Pakistani origin were freed as part of a goodwill gesture, ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. Three detainees were released following mediation of a Saudi delegation that visited Kabul. The Afghan spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, expressed appreciation for the Saudi effort and stressed Kabul’s aim of maintaining good ties with neighbours. The three detainees were captured during clashes with Pakistani forces on 12 October 2025. Saudi Arabia was referred to as a “brotherly nation” in the official press release, noting the growing ties between the two nations. These developments come up against the backdrop of Islamabad accusing Kabul of sheltering fighters belonging to the Tehreek-e-Taliban that are allegedly responsible for attacks in Pakistan.
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Urja R Kudalkar | Urja R Kudalkar is a postgraduate student at the Department of Public Policy, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, RUAS, Bengaluru. She is currently a research intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The Board of Peace Plan for Gaza:
CW Newsmakers
Adwaith Sankar | Adwaith Sankar is an undergraduate student pursuing Political Science and International Liberal Studies through the NUS-Waseda Double Degree Programme. He is currently an intern at NIAS.
Southeast Asia (April-June 2026)
Dattesh D Parulekar | Dr Dattesh D. Parulekar is an Assistant Professor at the School of International and Area Studies, Goa University.
Latin America (Apr-Jun 2026):
Nithin V | Nithin V is a postgraduate student in International Relations, with an interest in geopolitics, international political economy, and climate governance. He is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
Colombia's ban on Female Genital Mutilation:
Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani and Urja R Kudalkar | Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani, Urja R Kudalkar are postgraduate students at the Department of Public Policy, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. They are currently Research interns at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS)
Peru's new President Netanyahu's Washington visit
Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani, Urja R Kudalkar | Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani, Urja R Kudalkar are postgraduate students at the Department of Public Policy, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. They are currently Research interns at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS)
The Berlin Pride attack
Manikranth Chakravarthula | Manikranth Chakravarthula is a doctoral student at the Conflict Resolution and Peace Research Programme, School of Conflict and Security Studies, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.
The Houthis:
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies. Bengaluru
The US-Iran War, Week 22:
Priyanka Makhijani | Priyanka Makhijani is a postgraduate student at the department of Public Policy, School of Social Science, Ramaiah University of Applied science. She is currently an intern at NIAS.
AI's Rogue Agent Breach:
Adwaith Sankar | Adwaith Sankar is an undergraduate student pursuing Political Science and International Liberal Studies through the NUS-Waseda Double Degree Programme. He is currently an intern at NIAS.
ASEAN Regional Forum:
Namrata L Ghanghatkar | Namrata L Ghanghatkar is a postgraduate student at the Department of Public Policy, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru. She is currently a research intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS).
The return of US-Canada Tariff Tensions:
Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella | Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella is an undergraduate student from the Department of Political Science, School of Liberal Arts, Alliance University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at NIAS.
The US-Saudi Arabia Nuclear Cooperation Agreement:
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The Houthis target Saudi Arabia:
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
US-Iran War, Week 21:
Preetha Renganarayanan
The SDG Annual Report 2026:
Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella | Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella is an undergraduate student from the Department of Political Science, School of Liberal Arts, Alliance University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at NIAS.
The US-Iran War, Week 20:
Radhika M Agarwal | Radhika M Agarwal is a an internt at NIAS and also a postgraduate student at the Department of Politics and International Relations in Pandit Deendayal Energy University, Gandhinagar.
The C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue:Â
Dhivya KM | Dhivya K M is an intern at NIAS and is also a postgraduate student from the Department of Financial Economics, Madras School of Economics, Chennai.
The IMF World Economic Outlook:Â
Global Politics Team
Iran after Ali Khamenei I The War in Ukraine
Deb Dutta | Deb Dutta completed his graduation from the Department of Political Science, Sir Aurobindo International Centre of Education (SAICE), Puducherry. He is currently an intern at NIAS.
UNHCR Global Trends Report 2025:Â
Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella | Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella is an undergraduate student from the Department of Political Science, School of Liberal Arts, Alliance University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at NIAS.
Iran after Ali Khamenei
Deb Dutta | Deb Dutta completed his graduation from the Department of Political Science, Sir Aurobindo International Centre of Education (SAICE), Puducherry. He is currently an intern at NIAS.
PM Takaichi's India visit:Â
Yesasvi Koganti | Yesasvi Koganti is an undergraduate student at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai. She is also an intern at NIAS, Bengaluru.Â
The Israel-Lebanon Framework:
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The US-Iran negotiations:
Lakshmi Venugopal Menon
The Middle East (April–June 2026):Â
Shreya Upadhyay | Dr Shreya Upadhyay is an Assistant Professor at Christ (deemed to be) University, Bengaluru, and Fellow, Kalinga Institute of Indo-Pacific Studies.
The United States (April-June 2026)
Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella | Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella is an undergraduate student from the Department of Political Science, School of Liberal Arts, Alliance University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at NIAS.
The US-Iran MoU
Rohini Reenum | Rohini Reenum is a doctoral student at NIAS. She is working on Governance in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction using the case study of the BBNJ Agreement.
Israel's Ultra-Orthodox Jews:
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The US-Iran MoU:
Acsah H | Acsah H is a postgraduate student at the Department of Geopolitics and International Relations, Manipal Institute of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, MAHE, Manipal, Udupi. She is currently a research intern at NIAS.
The Blue Origin Rocket Explosion:
Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella | Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella is an undergraduate from the Department of Political Science, School of Liberal Arts, Alliance University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at NIAS.
Shangri-La Dialogue 2026:
Aishal Hab Yousuf | Aishal Hab Yousuf is a postgraduate student at the Department of International Studies. Stella Maris College, Chennai. She is currently an intern at NIAS, Bengaluru.
Shangri-La Dialogue 2026: Four Major Takeaways
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The US-Iran War, Week Fourteen:
Rohini Reenum | Rohini Reenum is a doctoral student at NIAS. She is working on Governance in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction using the case study of the BBNJ Agreement.
Israel-Lebanon Tensions:
Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella | Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella is an undergraduate from the Department of Political Science, School of Liberal Arts, Alliance University, Bengaluru
The Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting 2026:
Glynnis Winona B | Glynnis Winona B is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace Studies, and Public Policy, St. Joseph's University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengalur
The Crisis in Cuba:
Deb Dutta | Deb Dutta completed his graduation from the Department of Political Science, Sir Aurobindo International Centre of Education (SAICE), Puducherry. He is currently an intern at NIAS.
Israel, Lebanon, Hezbollah, and the Border Tensions:
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
Conflicts in the Middle East
Lekshmi MK | Lekshmi MK is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.
The India-Nordic Summit and PM Modi’s Oslo Visit
Yesasvi Koganti | Yesasvi Koganti is currently pursuing undergraduate studies at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai.Â
India, the UAE, and PM Modi’s visit:
Glynnis Winona B | Glynnis Winona B is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace Studies and Public Policy, St. Joseph's University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru
What makes the UAE a global player?
Nithin V | Nithin V is a postgraduate student in international relations at Loyola College, Chennai. He is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
Why does the Falkland Islands dispute keep recurring?
Aishal Hab Yousuf | Aishal Hab Yousuf is a postgraduate student at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
North Korea's Constitutional Amendment 2026:
Rohini Reenum
Iran’s Lebanon precondition for a ceasefire with the US:Â
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire:
Glynnis Winona B | Glynnis Winona B is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace Studies and Public Policy, St. Joseph's University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru
Weakening faith in institutions and Political polarization in Latin America and the Caribbean:
Aishal Hab Yousuf | Aishal Hab Yousuf is a postgraduate student at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai.
The Hormuz Strait and the Fertilizer Crisis in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa
Kirsten Wilfred Coelho
Why is the UK reluctant to engage?
Sreemaya Nair | Sreemaya Nair has pursued an undergraduate degree from the Department of International Relations, Peace Studies and Public Policy, St Joseph University, Bengaluru.
India, Russia and the imperative to strengthen the traditional relationship
Kirsten Wilfred Coelho
President Trump and the US-China Trade Tensions
Santhosh Guru PR
The Eurasian-Indo Pacific Congruence and its Critique
Rakshitha B | Rakshitha B is a final-year undergraduate student of political science and economics at Mount Carmel College
Transactional US foreign policy and it implications for India's Strategic Autonomy
Glynnis Winona B | Glynnis Winona B is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace Studies and Public Policy, St Joseph's University, Bengaluru.
The Russia-Ukraine War and the Rise of Parallel Strategic Systems: A Critique of Raghavan's Strategic Framework
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
Conflicts in the Middle East:
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The US-Iran War, Week Ten:
Nithin V | Nithin V is a postgraduate student in International Relations, with an interest in geopolitics, international political economy, and climate governance. He is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
King Charles's US Visit:
Siddhi Halyur | Siddhi Halyur is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Public Policy and Journalism at St Joseph's University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
Japan, Vietnam and PM Takaichi’s Visit
Aishal Hab Yousuf | Aishal Hab Yousuf is a postgraduate student at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
UAE's Exit from OPEC:
Glynnis Winona B | Glynnis Winona B is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace Studies and Public Policy, St. Joseph's University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru
US troop withdrawal from Germany:
Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The US-Iran War, Week Nine:
Jenin Raj S | Dr Jenin Raj S is an Assistant Professor and Head of the Centre for Media, Department of Journalism, Mount Carmel College (Autonomous), Bengaluru.
Media freedom hits a 25-year low:
Aishal Hab Yousuf | Aishal Hab Yousuf, Postgraduate student, Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
Japan’s New Defence Posture:
Nithin V | Nithin V is a postgraduate student in International Relations, with an interest in geopolitics, international political economy, and climate governance. He is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.
The Middle East Crisis and its Fallouts on Hunger and Global Food Supply Network
Brighty Ann Sarah | Ms Sarah is a Research Assistant at NIAS and Assistant Editor of NIAS Conflict Weekly.
Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire:
Akshath Kaimal | Mr Kaimal is a Research Assistant at NIAS. He works on Pakistan and Africa.
The US-Iran War, Week Eight:
Lakshmi Venugopal Menon | Dr Lakshmi Venugopal Menon is an academic and policy researcher specializing in Gulf studies, cultural heritage trafficking, geopolitics, migration, Afghan politics and the Taliban.
The Middle East (Jan–Mar 2026):
Ashik J Bonofer
Southeast Asia (Jan-Mar 2026)
Haans J Freddy
East Asia (Jan-Mar 2026)
Brighty Ann Sarah
Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Confrontation
Rohini Reenum
The US-Iran War, Week Three
Mahesh Bhatta
Nepal after elections:
Siddhi Halyur
State power, Entrenched authoritarian rule, Structural inequalities, Gender Constraints, and Restricted civic space in Middle East
Aishal Hab Yousuf
Economic modernization without political liberalization, Legal systems as instruments of political control, Shrinking civic space and Sports Washing
Jayasree
Legislative suppression of dissent, Promotion of patriarchal norms, Forced assimilation of minorities and Censorship in China
Rebecca Ann Oommen
Rampant armed conflicts and the Erosion of Democracy in Africa
Manik Dhawan
Significant setback to Human Rights situation in Europe
Santhosh Guru PR
Alarming rise of Authoritarianism and Autocracy in the Americas
Lekshmi MK
The UN and the Iran-US War
Brighty Ann Sarah
Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Confrontation
Rohini Reenum
The US-Iran War, Week Two
Global Politics Team
The World Today #275, 10 March 2026
Global Politics Team
The World Today #274, 09 March 2026
Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha
Canada’s PM Mark Carney’s India Visit
Mahesh Bhatta
Nepal Elections 2026
Sreemaya Nair
Nepal Elections 2026
Global Politics Team
The World Today #272, 06 March 2026
Mahesh Bhatta
Nepal Election 2026, Day One
Global Politics Team
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Yesasvi Koganti
PM Modi’s Visit to Israel
Rohini Reenum
The US-Iran War, Week One
Global Politics Team
The World Today #269, 03 March 2026
Global Politics Team
The World Today #268, 02 March 2026
Global Politics Team
Trump’s State of the Union Address | German Chancellor’s China Visit | India’s PM’s Israel Visit
Global Politics Team
The World Today #266, 27 February 2026
Abhimanyu Solanki
Basant in Pakistan
Global Politics Team
The World Today #265, 26 February 2026
Global Politics Team
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Global Politics Team
The World Today #263, 24 February 2026
Global Politics Team
The World Today #261-262, 23 February 2026
Global Politics Team
The World Today #259, 20 February 2026
Global Politics Team
The World Today #258, 19 February 2026
Global Politics Team
The World Today #256, 17 February 2026
Brighty Ann Sarah
The US-Iran Negotiations in Geneva
Yesasvi Koganti
The Global AI Impact Summit in New Delhi:
Lekshmi MK
Pakistan-Taliban Peace Talks
Aparna A Nair
Pakistan & China
Lekshmi MK
Pakistan's Climate Change Challenges
Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi
Pakistan and the US
Lekshmi MK
Pakistan’s Climate and Water Crisis
Global Politics Team
The World Today #255, 16 February 2026
Lekshmi MK
Sanae Takaichi’s historic win in Japan
Femy Francis
Jimmy Lai sentenced for 20 years in Hong Kong: Who, What, and Why
Yesasvi Koganti | Yesasvi Koganti is an undergraduate student from Madras Christian College, Chennai.
UK and China
Akshath Kaimal | Akshath Kaimal is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS)
India-EU Free Trade Agreement: Five Major Takeaways
Preetha Renganarayanan | R Preetha is pursuing post-graduation in the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai, and is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.
The India-US interim trade framework
Lekshmi MK | Lekshmi MK is pursuing post-graduation in the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai, and is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.
End of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START)
IPRI Team
Abu Dhabi Talks on Ukraine I Militant Attacks in Balochistan
Brighty Ann Sarah
US threats against Iran, and Phase Two operations in Gaza
Anu Maria Joseph
Africa: Renewed violence in Ethiopia and a Jihadist attack in Niger
Lekshmi MK
The War in Ukraine: The Trilateral Talks, and the Deadlock over Donetsk & Security Guarantees for Kyiv
Preetha Renganarayanan
The United States: ICE Crackdowns, Rising Resistance and the Political/Legal pushback
Brighty Ann Sarah
The Pentagon’s National Defence Strategy: Four major takeaways
Preetha Renganarayanan
The Davos Summit 2026
Brighty Ann Sarah
Syria: The State victory over the Syrian Democratic Forces
Brighty Ann Sarah
The War in Gaza: Trump’s Board of Peace and the Challenges to Phase Two
Lekshmi MK
Greenland: Trump’s escalation-deescalation strategy and Europe’s defence
Brighty Ann Sarah
Protests in Iran: Continuing Stalemate and Shifting US Position
Lekshmi MK
Ongoing diplomatic push, security deadlock, and strategic manoeuvres
Akshath Kaimal
Thailand-Cambodia: Border disputes, blame game and a fragile ceasefire
Preetha Renganarayanan
US National Security Strategy 2025: Five Major Takeaways of 'Trump Corollary' to the Monroe Doctrine
Preetha Renganarayanan
US-Venezuela Tensions: Military, Diplomatic and Internal Challenges to President Trump
Lekshmi MK
France's President Macron's visit to China: Strengthening bilateral ties, trade, and strategic engagement
Sunidhi Sampige & Tanvi Harendra
President Putin's India Visit: Economic, Military, and Strategic Agreements
Rohini Reenum
One Year of Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire: Continuing Violations and Evolving Endgames
Akriti Sharma
Devastating floods in Southeast and South Asia: High Casualties and Multiple Challenges
Anu Maria Joseph
The G20 Summit: Who said what? Major Takeaways
Brighty Ann Sarah
Israel’s escalating attack on Hezbollah and Syria’s deepening sectarian violence
R Preetha
US-Saudi Arabia Reset: Crown Prince meets the American President and sign key agreements on Defense, AI, Critical Minerals
Akriti Sharma
COP30 Summit at Brazil: Major takeaways
Brighty Ann Sarah
Escalating ceasefire violations and settler violence in Gaza, Israel-Syria tensions, and Israel's pressure on Hezbollah
Akriti Sharma
Climate Change: COP30 begins with full momentum and high expectations
Rohini Reenum
Israel's ceasefire violations in Lebanon: History, Causes and Consequences
Brighty Ann Sarah and Preetha R
The War in Gaza and the 20-point peace plan: An audit of phase one and the pivot to phase two
D Suba Chandran
Women, Peace and Security: 25 Years of UNSC 1325, its achievements and limitations
Neha Tresa George
Thailand and Cambodia: A joint declaration, US-ASEAN intervention and its challenges
Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi
Pakistan and Afghanistan: Military Strikes, Border Clashes and Ceasefire Talks
Brighty Ann Sarah
Breakthrough in Gaza: Trump’s 20-Point Plan, A New Opening, and Its Challenges
Brighty Ann Sarah and R Preetha
The War in Gaza: US Post-War Plans and Global Accountability Efforts
Brighty Ann Sarah and R Preetha
The War in Gaza: The Ceasefire Conundrum, Attack on Gaza City, and Israel's new settlement plans
Abhimanyu Solanki
Pakistan: Cholistan Canal Dispute, Militant Violence & Power Sector Crisis
Ditipriya Ghosh
India and the Maldives: Was Modi’s visit to the Maldives a diplomatic reset?
Brighty Ann Sarah and R Preetha
The War in Gaza: Israel's reoccupation plan and International support for the Two-State Solution
Naomi Miriam Mathew
US-China tariff extension:
Abhiruchi Chowdhury
The Trump-Putin Meeting at Alaska:
Abhiruchi Chowdhury
India-UK FTA and Vision 2035 Framework:
Abhiruchi Chowdhury
Trump’s 50 per cent tariffs on India:
Astha Panda
Bhutan's Ageing Crisis: What do the numbers say about the demographic shift?Â
Ayush Joshi
Afghanistan: Evolution of Islamic State - Khorasan Province
Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi
China's FDI surge in Pakistan: Numbers, Sectors, and Stakes
Brighty Ann Sarah and R Preetha
The War in Gaza: Failed negotiations, unfolding famine and the mounting international pressure
Swati Sood
The US-EU Trade Deal:
Abhiruchi Chowdhury
Trump tariffs:
Kasvi Batra
Elections for Japan’s Upper House:
Swati Sood
PM Modi’s Visit, India and the Maldives:
Naomi Miriam Mathew
Indian PM Modi’s Visit to Argentina:
Swati Sood
Indian PM Modi's visit to Brazil:
Kasvi Batra
Australian PM Albanese’s visit to China:
Lekshmi MK & Swati Sood
US-EU Tariff tensions:
Lekshmi MK
UN Ocean Conference, Deep Sea Mining and Seabed Exploitation
Lekshmi MK
Ocean Darkening:Â
Naomi Miriam MathewÂ
SIPRI 2025 Report on World Nuclear Forces: Nine Major Trends
Rohini Reenum
Syria: Druze-Bedouin clashes and the Israeli intervention
Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Aparna A Nair and M Kejia
Israel, Iran, the US and "The 12 Day War" in the Middle East: Claims & Counter Claims
Brighty Ann Sarah
Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting:
Merin Treesa Alex
One Big Beautiful Bill Act:
Kasvi Batra
Prime Ministers visit to Ghana:
M Kejia
PM Modi’s Visit to Trinidad and Tobago:
Astha Panda
Bhutan's Gelephu Gate: Deepening Regional Connectivity
Emma Rose Boby
Declining Media Freedom in Bangladesh: What and Why
Fleur Elizabeth Philip
Thailand and Cambodia
Merin Treesa Alex
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
Santhiya M
Russia and Mali bilateral agreements:
Ananya Dinesh
China and the Pacific IslandsÂ
Aparna A Nair
China and the Darwin Port:
Farhaz Rashid Ahmed
Five years after George Floyd’s death:Â
Farhaz Rashid Ahmed
The Awami League is banned in Bangladesh: Why? What next?
Gauri Gupta
Shenzhou-19 Mission: A Profile
M Kejia
G7 Summit 2025:
Aparna A Nair
Second China-Central Asia Summit:
Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Aparna A Nair & M Kejia
Operation Midnight Hammer: US bombs three nuclear sites in Iran
Kumari Gargi, Naomi Miriam Matthew, & Fleur Elizabeth PhilipÂ
Shangri-La Dialogue 2025: Who said what?
Santhiya M
Cambodia and Thailand: Preah Vihear border dispute and the ICJ interventions
Femy Francis
The US-China:
Lekshmi MK
The UN Ocean Conference in France:
R Preetha
New Zealand: MÄori indigenous resistance meets harsh parliament response
Gauri Gupta
The US: Protests against Trump’s immigration raid in Los Angeles
Ananya Dinesh
US-Iran Nuclear Deal
Santhiya M
Nepal’s Republic Day Parade and Pro-Monarchy Protests: Who, What and Why?
Lekshmi MK
Poland's Presidential Elections:
Merin Treesa Alex
South Korea’s Presidential Elections:
Emma Rose Boby
Bangladesh Elections 2026: Who Wants What, When and Why?
M KejiaÂ
Sagarmatha Sambaad in Nepal
Lekshmi MK
Eleven PIC sign a joint statement with ChinaÂ
Merin Treesa Alex
Global Politics Explainer
Fleur Elizabeth Philip
State of Germany-Israel Relations
Aashish Ganeshan
The US:
Fleur Elizabeth Philip
President Macron’s visit to Vietnam, Indonesia & Singapore:
Gauri Gupta
China-ASEAN-GCC Summit:
Ayan Datta
Gaza
Aparna A Nair
UK-EU Summit:
Farhaz Rashid Ahmed
Poland’s Presidential Elections:
Aashish Ganeshan
Elections in Portugal:
Abhiruchi Chowdhury
Presidential elections in Romania:
Femy Francis
China-Pakistan-Afghanistan Foreign Ministers meeting in Beijing
Aashish Ganeshan
US in the Middle Easr
Gauri Gupta
China in Latin America
Lekshmi MK
Turkey:
Padmashree Anandhan
Ukraine:
D Suba Chandran
India and Pakistan:
Abhiruchi Chowdhury
US, Ukraine and Russia:
Fleur Elizabeth Philip
Singapore Elections in 2025:
D Suba Chandran
A Militant attack in J&K:
R Preetha and Brighty Ann Sarah
East Asia:
Padmashree Anandhan
The US-Ukraine
R Preetha
Canada Elections 2025:
Abhishiktha S Kumar
Nepal’s Pro-Monarchy Protests:
Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi
Sri Lanka’s Human-Elephant Conflict: What, Where and Why
Santhiya M
Decline of the Greens since 2005
Brighty Ann Sarah
Explaining the rise of extremism in East Germany
Vaneeta
Canada’s New Prime Minister: Who is Mark Carney? What are his immediate Challenges?
Vaneeta
Trump wants to retake the Panama Canal. Why?
Souparno Rakshit, Emma Rose Boby and Souparnika Suresh
Bangladesh's New Political Party: Who, Why and What for?
Kumari Krishna
Sri Lanka: Seven takeaways of new President's first visit to China
C Shraddha
Trump's Inaugural Address: Five major takeaways
Kumari Krishna
Greenland: What is Trump's new interest? What has been the response from the islanders and the Europeans?
Vaneeta
Who is Nicolás Maduro? And why is there a controversy over his third term?
Vaneeta
Who is Nicolás Maduro? And what next for Venezuela after his third term?
Nupur Priya
Ireland Elections and What's Next?
Ayan Datta
Lebanon’s new President: Who is Aoun? Will he be able to address the mounting challenges?
C Shraddha, Vaishak Sreekumar, Kumari Krishna, Nova Karun K
Why did Justin Trudeau resign? What next for Canada?
Nupur Priya
UN’s Recent Report on Femicides: Six Takeaways
Prajwal TV
Political Crisis in France
Kavithasri M
Busan Plastic Pollution Summit: What happened in Busan? And what didnt?
Ayan Datta
Why Israel is NOT facing a strategic defeat in Gaza: A Response to Stanly Johny
Sayeka Ghosh
07 July 1978: Solomon Islands gains independence from British rule
Karthik Manoharan
05 July 1962: The Algerian War comes to an end
Prajwal TV
01 July 1968: US, Soviet Union, UK and 40 countries sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty
Mayank Bharti
05 July 1996: Dolly becomes the first mammal to be cloned
Ronakk Tijoriwala
01 July 2002: The Rome Statute establishes the International Criminal Court
Deepika Seervi
05 July 1962: Algeria declares its independence, ending 132 years of French occupation
Ayan Datta & Sayeka Ghosh
US Presidential Debate 2024: Trump exposes Biden’s weaknesses, promises stronger America
Dhriti Mukherjee
Haiti: The UN backed Kenyan police force lands
Prajwal T V
Julian Assange: The WikiLeaks founder pleads guilty, ending a long legal stand-off with the US
IPRI Team
The US: President Biden announces new executive order allowing hundreds of thousands of immigrants to get citizenship
IPRI Team
Israeli forces shot Palestinians in West Bank
Dhriti Mukherjee
Mexico Elections 2024: A Historic Moment sees a First Woman President in North America
Dhriti Mukherjee
The US: Jury finds Donald Trump Guilty on 34 counts. Five Takeaways of the verdict
By young scholars of NIAS Course on Global Politics: Contemporary World Order and Theories. Compiled by Sayeka Ghosh.
South Korea Elections 2024: An interview with Dr Sandip Mishra and Dr Vyjayanti Raghavan
By the NIAS-IPRI Course scholars on Contemporary Conflicts, Peace Processes, Theories and Thinkers. Compiled by Ayan Datta.
The War in Gaza: An Interview with Dr Stanly Johny
Rohini Reenum
Ebrahim Raisi: An Untimely Death, and What it means for Iran and its Neighbourhood
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (21 Apr- 27 Apr 2024)
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (14 Apr -20 Apr 2024)
Devi Chandana M
Seychelles-India Relations: Five Areas of Partnership
Sayeka Ghosh
26 April 1986: Chernobyl nuclear accident
Arya Prasad
Elections in South Korea: Six Takeaways
Sayeka Ghosh
Fukushima Nuclear Disaster, 13 years later: Energy Debate, Safety Concerns and Global Fallouts
Diya Madhavan
The Rise of Temu: A Chinese online shopping app in the US
Ramya B
4 April 1968: Martin Luther King Jr assassinated
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (25 Mar- 01 Apr 2024)
T C A Raghavan
March 1739: Nadir Shah invades Delhi
Karthik Manoharan
17 March 1992: The end of Apartheid in South Africa
Rosemary Kurian
18 March 2014: Russia annexes Crimea
Manasa G
14 March 1879: Albert Einstein born in Germany
D Rohan Kumar
11 March 1985: Mikhail Gorbachev becomes the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union
Sivasubramanian K
09 March 1776: Adam Smith publishes “The Wealth of Nations”
LS Hareesh
14 March 1849: The Sikh Army surrenders to the British
Ramya B
12 March 1918: Lenin shifts the capital to Moscow
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (2-9 Mar 2024)
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (26 Feb-02 Mar 2024)
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (11-17 Feb 2024)
NIAS Latin America Team
Latin America This Week (3-10 Feb 2024)
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (3-10 Feb 2024)
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Fifteenth Week
Bibhu Prasad Routray
Myanmar: Ethnic Armed Organizations, China’s Mediation and Continuing Fighting
Femy Francis
Taiwan Election 2024: The return of DPP
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Fourteenth Week
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Thirteen Week
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Twelfth Week
CEAP Team
NIAS- CEAP- China Reader | Daily Briefs
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Eleventh Week
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Tenth Week
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Nineth Week
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Eigth Week
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Seventh Week
Amit Gupta
The War in Gaza: Consequences for Israel and the US
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Sixth Week
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Fifth Week
IPRI Team
NIAS-Conflict Weekly Special Alert | The War in Gaza: Fourth Week
Prof Joyati Bhattacharya
G20 Summit: India the Global Host
Lakshmi Parimala H
Mural, Movie and the Map: Akhand Bharat mural and Adipurush
Amit Gupta
The Trump Phenomenon: Why it Won’t Go
Vignesh Ram | Assistant Professor | Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal
Malaysia’s recent Elections: More questions than answers
Rashmi BR and Akriti Sharma
COP27: Ten key takeaways
Sethuraman Nadarajan
Israel-Lebanon Maritime Border Deal
Avishka Ashok
G20 Summit: Four takeaways from Bali
Dr Beena
Sri Lanka’s political and economic crisis: Implications for India
Sourina Bej
The UK: Domestic, regional and global challenges to the new Prime Minister
Naina Singh
India-Taiwan Relations: Making a Case for Active Sub-National Diplomacy with Tamil Nadu
Amit Gupta
Afghanistan, AUKUS, and Ukraine: A new strategy for India
Porkkodi Ganeshpandian and Angkuran Dey
The return of the LeftÂ
Shalini Balaiah
The Middle East in 2021: Never-ending wars and conflicts
Prakash Panneerselvam
East Asia in 2021: New era of hegemonic competition
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
The unrest in Kazakhstan: Look beyond the trigger
STIR Team
Living with Risks: The Art and Science of Managing Public Risks
Aswathy Koonampilly
Japan: New Prime Minister, Old party
Vineeth Daniel Vinoy
Afghanistan: Who is who in the interim Taliban government? And, what would be the government structure?
Joeana Cera MatthewsÂ
Haiti: Two months after the assassination, the storm is still brewing
Lokendra Sharma
Two months of Cuban protests: Is the â€revolution’ ending?
Bhuvan Ningania
In Afghanistan, the Indian influence will not fade: Four reasons why
Dincy Adlakha
China and Russia in Myanmar: The interests that bindÂ
Jeshil J Samuel
REvil is dead. Long live REvil
Lokendra Sharma
The future of nuclear energy looks bleak
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Five reasons why Afghanistan is closer to a civil war
Joeana Cera MatthewsÂ
Farfetched goals on pandemic recovery, climate action and economic revival
Gurpreet Singh
India and the geopolitics of supply chainsÂ
Anju Joseph
Timor Leste: Instability continues, despite 19 years of independence
Sarthak Jain
India should invest in technology to meet China's water challenge
Sourina Bej
Fresh election-call mean unending cycle of instability
Vibha Venugopal
The return of Taliban will be bad news for women
Dincy Adlakha
The SCRI will fail before it takes off, for three reasons
Udbhav Krishna P
Revisiting the recent violence: Three takeaways
Joeana Cera Matthews
For the Economist, Taiwan is the most dangerous place. The argument is complicated
Julia Mathew
Though the US is late to the race, it has an edge. Three reasons why
Dhanushaa P
Between "strategic patience" and "grand bargain," Biden's policy options on Pyongyang are limited
SDP Scholars
US, China, and the race to Mars, Cryptocurrencies face a setback as states pose hurdles, Polar Regions and Climate Change
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
The US decision to withdraw is a call made too early. Three reasons why
​​​​​​​Rashmi BR
​​​​​​​As Russia takes over the Arctic Council chair from Iceland, will it balance its regional and national interests?
Lokendra Sharma
Learning from Cuba's vaccine development effortsÂ
GP Team
The US' Leaders Summit on Climate: Global Issue, Regional Prisms
V S Ramamurthy and Dinesh K Srivastava
An energy mix of renewables and nuclear is the most viable option
Lokendra Sharma
Deadly second wave spirals into a humanitarian disaster
Harini Madhusudan
The Greenland election result is all about eco-geopolitics, and growing Chinese interests
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
The US-Taliban Deal: One Year Later
Akriti Sharma
The Quad Plus and the search beyond the four countries
Avishka Ashok
Despite the economic challenges, there are opportunities for Quad
Apoorva Sudhakar
India's Endgames, Roles and Limitations in Quad
Sukanya Bali
Tracing the Quad's evolution in the last two decades
Apoorva Sudhakar
Ethiopia: Five fallouts of the military offensive in Tigray
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Afghanistan: The recent surge in targeted killing vs the troops withdrawal
Avishka Ashok
In Argentina, an extraordinarily progressive law on abortion brings the Conservatives to protest
Harini Madhusudan
In Poland, the protests against the abortion law feed into anti-government sentiments
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
In Honduras, a move towards a permanent ban on abortion laws
Sukanya Bali
In Thailand, the new abortion law poses more questions
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Civilian protests vs military: Three factors will decide the outcome in Myanmar
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Trump’s Climate Change legacy: Disruption and Denial
Apoorva Sudhakar
Trump’s Iran legacy: Maximum pressure, minimum results
N Manoharan and Drorima Chatterjee
Five ways India can detangle the fishermen issue with Sri Lanka
GP Team
Iran’s decision to enrich its Uranium by 20 per cent: What does it mean?
GP Team
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP): Global and Regional Implications
D Suba Chandran
The Hazaras protest over burying the dead; PM says don’t blackmail me
D Suba Chandran
The PDM differences, Gwadar fencing, and Lakhvi's arrest
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Nagorno-Karabakh: Rekindled fighting, Causalities and a Ceasefire
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Thailand: For the pro-democracy protests, it is a long march ahead
Mallika Devi
Hong Kong: Slow Strangulation of Protests, Security Law and China's victory
Harini Madhusudan
Brexit: A year of the UK-EU transition talks and finally, a DealÂ
Kamna Tiwary
Europe: From anti-government protests in Belarus to â€United for Abortion’ in PolandÂ
Apoorva Sudhakar
Ethiopia: The conflict in Tigray and the regional fallouts
Teshu Singh
India and China: A tense border with compromise unlikely
Sourina Bej
France:  Needs to rethink  the state-religion relation in battling extremism
Rashmi Ramesh
Abraham Accords: Rethinking Diplomacy and Restructuring Priorities in the Middle East
Aparaajita Pandey
The Americas: Top Five Developments
Teiborlang T Kharsyntiew
Europe: Top five developments
Sandip Kumar Mishra
East Asia: Top Five developments in 2020
Sourina Bej
The Brexit Endgame: A Trade deal, but it is yet to be over for the UK-EU
Harini Madhusudan
Outer Space in 2020: Missions, Privatization, and the Artemis Accords
Gunjan Singh
China and the US in 2020: Year of Continuing Confrontation
Sukanya Bali
5G, Huawei and TikTok: Four trends in 2020
Sumedha ChatterjeeÂ
COVID-19: How the world fought in 2020
GP Team
The World This Year: What happened, What paused and What failed
Rashmi Ramesh
Trump legacy leaves negligible space for any policy changes
Harini Madhusudan
The Vaccine Rush: Expectations vs Realities
Harini Madhusudan
Open Skies Treaty: The US should not have withdrawn, for five reasons
Sukanya Bali
Three reasons why the US wants to restrict, but China wants to promote it
Savithri Sellapperumage
Kamala Harris makes history
Harini Madhusudan
Australia joins the Malabar exercise. However, the Quad has a long way to go
Rashmi Ramesh
Climate Change Protests: Now moving out of the COVID-19 shadow
Mallika Devi
China is against the Quad. Five reasons why
Srikumar Pullat
Space of Tomorrow: The Need for Space Security
Harini Madhusudan
Japan- South Korea: Will there be a reset in bilateral relations under the new Japanese PM?
Lokendra Sharma
Bahrain and the UAE have normalized ties with Israel. Five reasons why
Nancy Pathak
Indonesia and the South China Sea: Between the Nine-Dash Line and an EEZ
Shreya Sinha
Despite Brexit, the UK is unlikely to disengage from the EU in their defence and security cooperation. Why?
Kamna Tiwary
Abe's Indo-Pacific legacy: Will the new PM follow it up?
Tamanna Khosla
Japan: New Prime Minister, Old Challenges
Vaishali Handique
Not just regime change: Women and protest movements in Sudan
Sneha Tadkal
Technology in contemporary global protest movements
Unnikrishnan M J
Rise of the middle class: Independence protest movements in Catalonia
Rashmi Ramesh
#FridaysforFuture: The global protests against Climate Change
A Padmashree
Looking Inwards: The anti-government protests in Iran
Oviya A J
#NiUnaMenos: Women and protest movements in Latin America
Harini Sha P
Solve economic crisis: Indigenous movements in Latin America
Chavindi Weerawansha
Students as agents of change: Protest movements in Zimbabwe
Arjun C
Digital platforms as tools: Rise of Anti-Fracking protest movements across the world
Anju Annie Mammen
“Unveiling”: Women and protest movements in the Middle East
Harini Madhusudan
â€The Revolution of Our Times’: Protests in Hong Kong
Sourina Bej
â€The yellow vests will triumph’: The middle and working class protests in France
Lakshmi V Menon
Will the Abraham Accord lead to peace, or is it the end of Palestine state?
Samreen Wani
Lebanon: Can Macron's visit prevent the unravelling?
Sankalp Gurjar
In Sudan, the government signs an agreement with the rebels. However, there are serious challenges
Harini Madhusudan
The Legacy of Shinzo Abe. It is Complicated.
Sourina Bej
Despite the UK ban, it is not over yet for China. For three reasons.
Harini Madhusudan
A Zero-Sum Game: At the core of the US-China rivalry, is an Isolate-China policy
Samreen Wani
Iran Nuclear Deal: It is time to write the obituary, for three reasons
Padmashree A
Yemen and Oil, MBS’s two-path destruction in Saudi Arabia
Boa Wang
Two Sessions in Beijing
Adnan Aziz Chowdhury
For Bangladesh, it was Nationwide Lockdown, Checking High Inflation & Critical Social MediaÂ
Mahesh Bhatta
For Nepal, it is effective local governments, educative media, and India-Nepal health diplomacy
Boa Wang
How China fought the COVID-19Â
N. Manoharan
Is COVID-19 a Bio-weapon from China?
Prof PM Soundar Rajan
Is there an overlap of 5G Networks and COVID hotspots?
Harini Sha P
The problem is not just Haftar. It is the international hunger for the Libyan Oil
Rashmi Ramesh
Will COVID-19 provide a new agenda to the NAM?
Sourina Bej
EU, minus the US, leads the global cooperation for the vaccine
D. Suba Chandran
Healing needs Forgiveness, Accountability, Responsibility and Justice
Harini Madhusudan
Iran's New Military Satellite: Does it violate the UNSC 2231?
La Toya Waha
One year after the Easter Attacks in Sri Lanka: Have the Islamists Won?
Jenice Jean Goveas
Epidemics through History
Sanduni Atapattu
Preventing hatred and suspicion would be a bigger struggle
Chavindi Weerawansha
A majority in the minority community suffers, for the action of a few
Chrishari de Alwis Gunasekare
The Cardinal sermons for peace, with a message to forgive
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Who and Why of the Perpetrators
Natasha Fernando
In retrospect, where did we go wrong?
Ruwanthi Jayasekara
Build the power of Co-existence, Trust, Gender and Awareness
N Manoharan
New ethnic faultlines at macro and micro levels
Asanga Abeyagoonasekera
A year has gone, but the pain has not vanished
Kabi AdhikariÂ
In Nepal, it is a struggle for the women out of the patriarchal shadows
Jenice Jean Goveas
In India, the glass is half full for the women
Fatemah Ghafori
In Afghanistan, there is no going back for the women
Sukanya Bali
One month after the deal with the Taliban: Problems Four, Progress None
Lakshmi V Menon
The decline in terrorism in Pakistan in 2019
Rashmi Ramesh
The EU and the Arctic: The interest is not mutual. Why?
Rashmi Ramesh
Iceland, Denmark and Norway: Small is Big in the Arctic
Harini Madhusudan
The Non-Arctic powers: Interests of Japan and South Korea
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Malaysia: New PM, Old Challenges
La Toya Waha
The Bar Shooting in Germany: Just an act of a crazy individual?
Rohej Khatiwada
Small countries in the SAARC: Will they succeed in reviving regional cooperation?
Lakshmi V Menon
Pakistan to remain “Grey”; North Korea and Iran in “Black”
Rashmi Ramesh
Trump's India Visit: Optics, Substance and Rhetoric
Kabi AdhikariÂ
The controversial MCC Nepal Compact
Malini SethuramanÂ
ISIS post Baghdadi: Will there be another Caliphate in 2020?
Aarathi Srinivasan
Climate Change: The Economy of the Indian Ocean Region in 2020
Roshni Sharma
Climate Change: The New Refugees Paradox in South and East Asia in 2020
Rashmi Ramesh
Addressing Climate Change: Calamities, Risks and Protests in 2020
Dhruv Ashok
India-Pakistan Relation: Will it get worse in 2020?
Prathiksha Ravi
Israel and the Middle East: The New Alliance Plans in 2020
Aswathy K
The US in the Middle East: Flux or Status Quo in 2020?
Padmini Anilkumar
Middle East: The Return of Russia in 2020
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Sudan and Algeria: Road to Democracy in 2020
Lakshmi V Menon
Syria: ISIS Decline, US Retreat and the Return of Russia in 2020
Sourina Bej
The Pangs of BREXIT: UK's Tough Transition in 2020
Sukanya Bali
The Belt and Road Initiative: A New Global Connectivity Map in 2020
Harini Madhusudan
The US-China Trade Dispute: Towards further disruptions in 2020
Parikshith Pradeep
The US under Donald Trump: The Fall of an Empire in 2020
Boa Wang
China in 2019: 70th Anniversary, Rise of Domestic Animation and the Commercialization of 5GÂ
Vivek Mishra
After Soleimani assassination: Options for the USÂ
Sukanya Bali
Iran, Iraq and the US: Who wants what?
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Old problems to persist with no solutions in the near term
Aashiyana Adhikari
Indian and Chinese investments in Nepal: Managing asymmetry
Shailesh Nayak | Director, National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS)
Blue Economy and India: An Introduction
Lakshmi V Menon
The Middle East in 2019: Domestic Protests, Bilateral Conflicts and Regional Tensions
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
North Africa in 2019: A year of protests, with some positive results
Sukanya Bali
Hong Kong in 2019: China's New Achilles Heel
Harini Madhusudan
The US-China Trade Dispute in 2019:Â Towards a thaw in 2020?
Parikshith Pradeep
The US in 2019: Trump rollsout a template for a global American retreat
Sourina Bej
Europe in 2019: Hard Brexit for the UK, Systemic Struggle for the EU
Rashmi Ramesh
Climate Change in 2019: Active Civil Society, Hesitant State
Rashmi Ramesh
The Arctic Littorals: Iceland and Greenland
Harini Madhusudan
The Polar Silk Route: China's ambitious search in the Arctic
Parikshith Pradeep
The Scientific Imbalance: Is technology rightly being invested in the Arctic?
GP Team
Syria: Who wants what?
Harini Madhusudan
Violence in Hong Kong: Will the protests end?
Rashmi Ramesh
Is Catalonia Spain’s Hong Kong?
Sourina Bej
As the Brexit deadline nears: Three Implications of Boris Johnson’s Election Call
D. Suba Chandran
Why an Arctic foray is essential for India
Parikshith Pradeep
Russia's Polar Military Edge
Nidhi Dalal
Protests rock Chile, Bolivia and Haiti
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Will prosecuting Suu Kyi resolve the Rohingya problem?
Sourina Bej
Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi: Multiple Deals, No Takeaways
Lakshman Chakravarthy N & Rashmi Ramesh
Climate Change: Four Actors, No Action
Sukanya Bali
Brexit: Preparing for the Worst Case
Lakshman Chakravarthy N
5G: A Primer
Rashmi Ramesh
From Okjökull to OK: Death of a Glacier in Iceland
Sukanya Bali
Challenges before Boris Johnson
Parikshith Pradeep
The Hong Kong Protests: Who wants what
Harini Madhusudan
The Hong Kong Protests: Re-defining mass mobilization
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
ASEAN Outlook on the Indo Pacific: Worth all the Hype?
Mahesh Bhatta
Monsoons first, Floods next and the Blame Games follow
Titsala Sangtam
Counting Citizens: Manipur charts its own NRC
Vivek Mishra
Can Hedging be India’s Strategy?
Lakshmi V Menon
Amidst the US-Iran standoff, Saudi Arabia should be cautious
Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer
For Russia, it was big power projection
Harini Madhusudan
For China, it was trade and a temporary truce
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
For Japan, it was commerce and climate change
Sourina Bej
For the US, it was trade, tariff and talks
Mahath Mangal
Iran, US and the Nuclear Deal: Will Russia remain neutral?
Titsala Sangtam
Iran, US and the Nuclear deal: Europe in the middle?
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Modi's Colombo Visit: Four issues to watch
Sourina Bej
From Moscow to Manila:Â Attack on Journalists, Public Protests and Culture of ImpunityÂ
Harini Madhusudan
Thirty years after Tiananmen:  What remains in the popular memory and what doesn’t
Raakhavee Ramesh
Higher than the Himalayas: Pakistan and China
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Across the Himalayas: Nepal and China
Mahath Mangal
The Russian Resurgence: Is the US supremacy waning?
Mahath Mangal
San Francisco wants to ban, Kashgar wants to expand
Jerin George
Espionage or Investigative Journalism?Â
Titsala Sangtam
Beyond the Kuril Island Dispute: Tensions between Moscow and Tokyo
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
The Huawei Controversy: Five things you need to know
Mahath Mangal
Why the world needs to look at Yemen
Sourina Bej
Modi's Foreign Policy 2.0: A Response to C Raja Mohan
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
The Central Asia Connector
Harini Madhusudan
An Under-represented East Asia
Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer
Africa Embraces the Belt and Road
Sourina Bej
It’s Europe vs EU on China
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Sudan: Between Democracy and another military rule
Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer
Responses and Inspiring Lessons
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Thailand: Between Elections and Instability
Ryan Mitra
Malaysia, China and the BRI: The Delicate Hedging
Sourina Bej
Two Sessions in 2019: Four Takeaways
Lakshmi V Menon
The End of ISIS Caliphate?
Harini Madhusudan
For China, its a sigh of relief
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
For Vietnam, its a big deal
Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer
For Japan, No Deal is Good Deal
Sourina Bej
For South Korea, a costly disappointment
Harini Madhusudan
No deal is better, but isn't it bad?
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
The Other Conflict in Rakhine State
Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer
Yemen: Will Sa'nna fall?
Harini Madhusudan
Sinicizing the Minorities
Lakshmi V Menon
The Qatar Blockade: Eighteen Months Later
Sourina Bej
Maghreb: What makes al Shahab Resilient?
Harini Madhusudan
US-China Trade War: No Clear Winners
Abhishrut Singh
Trump’s Shutdown: Five Things to Know
Kriti
Afghanistan: Why Trump’s decision to withdraw will create more instability
Komal Tiwary
Syria: Why Trump’s decision to withdraw is a right one but at a wrong time
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Myanmar: Will 2019 be better for the Rohingya?
D. Suba Chandran
Bangladesh: The Burden of Electoral History
Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer
US and China: Between Confrontation and Competition
Mahesh Bhatta | Centre for South Asian Studies, Kathmandu
Nepal
Nasima Khatoon | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS
The Maldives
Harini Madhusudan | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS
India
Sourina Bej | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS
Bangladesh
Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS
Afghanistan
Harini Madhusudan
China and Japan: Renewing relations at the right time
Ryan Mitra
The INF Treaty: Towards a new Security Dilemma
Sourina Bej
The INF Treaty: US withdraws to balance China?
Harini Madhusudan
The Khashoggi Killing: Unanswered Questions
Divyabharathi E
The Economic Crisis and the Saudi Investments: What are the Fallouts?
Lakshmi V Menon
US and Israel: Trump's Deal of the Century
Nasima Khatoon
The New Maldives: Advantage India?
Harini Madhusudhan
To NAFTA or Not: Trump, Mexico and Canada
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Malaysia’s China Moment: The Mahathir Gamble
Sourina Bej
BIMSTEC: A Bay of Good Hope?
Ryan Mitra
India between the US and Iran: The Art of Balancing Two States
Hely Desai
Two Years of Brexit: The Reverse-Domino Effect
Young Scholars Debate
India, Imran Khan and Indo-Pak Relations
Siddhatti Mehta
Does Brexit mean Brexit?
Oishee Majumdar
Factsheet: China’s Investments in Africa
Sourina Bej
Post Trump-Putin Summit: How significant is the Russia threat to Europe?
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
The 8888 Uprising: Thirty Years Later
Harini Madhusudhan
The Tariff War: 'Stick of Hegemony' vs Vital Interests
Druta Bhatt
FactSheet: Shangri La Dialogue 2018
Rahul Arockiaraj
Immigrants as the “Other”: The Social and Economic Factors in the US
Divyabharathi E
Is Trump-Putin Summit a setback for the US?
Apoorva Sudhakar
India and Bangladesh: The Long Haul
Divyabharathi E
Quad as an alternative to the BRI: Three Main Challenges
Oishee Majumdar
FactSheet: India-Bangladesh Relations
D. Suba Chandran
Trump meets Putin; will it cost NATO?
Sourina Bej
Trump and the NATO: One Block, Different Views
Rahul Arockiaraj
Zero Tolerance on Illegal Immigration: Explaining Trump’s strategy and the American Spirit
Gayan Gowramma KC
Now, the United States withdraws from the UNHRC
Druta Bhatt
Electoral Rise of the Right: From Trump to Brexit
Siddhatti Mehta
Will China be able to sustain its Dominance?
Miti Shah
Is religion redefining nationalism?: The Case of Myanmar, India and Sri Lanka
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Myanmar: Why won't they do anything for the Rohingya?
Harini Madhusudan
The Idea of an US Space Force: Strategic Calculations
Apoorva Sudhakar
Afghan Peace: Reality or Illusion?
Hely Desai
Looking beyond Trump: Is the US declining?
Manushi Kapadia
Is China using its soft power to become superpower?
Lakshmi. V. Menon
Middle East: Has Russia chosen Israel over Iran?
Divyabharathi E
India and Seychelles: Is the Assumption Deal a Game Changer in the Indian Ocean?
Miti Shah
G7: Why Trump wants Russia in?
Hely Desai
FactSheet: G7 Summit
Siddhatti Mehta
The Panmunjom Declaration: “Tip of the Iceberg”
Druta Bhatt
Iran N-Deal and the Trans-Atlantic Divide
Manushi Kapadia
US and China: Towards a Trade War
Miti Shah
Palestine: US triggers new tensions
Divyabharathi E
The "Indo-Pacific Command": What's in the name?
Harini Madhusudan
Trump’s Tariff Strategy: Targetting Adversaries and Allies
Hely Desai
Trump-Kim Summit: Three Likely Outcomes
Apoorva Sudhakar
The Lebanon Pawn: Will it change after elections?
Lakshmi V Menon
Israel, the Game Changer?
Samreen Wani
Deciphering Turkey's External Push
Divyabharathi E
China and Russia: The New Alignments
Ann Maria Shibu
Can India afford to lose Maldives to China?
Dhruv Ashok
Why Maldives is important to China?
Lakshmi V Menon
ISIS and the Yazidi victims: Why the World should stand up?
Harini Madhusudan
US- China Tariff Face-off : Five questions
Jamyang Dolma
Why is Free Tibet important for India
Divyabharathi E
Arctic: The Strategic Significance
Lakshmi V Menon
Do we need the Quad?
Samreen Wani
Why Trump’s Iran exit is a big mistake?
Jamyang Dolma
Inter Korean Summit: Will it work?
Shalini E
What prevents India and Nepal from moving forward?
Dhruv Ashok
The Fishermen Issue between India and Sri Lanka
Apoorva Sudhakar
Bangladesh's Economy: Decoding a Success Story
Ann Maria Shibu
Why India should not pull out of the Indus water treaty?
Divyabharathi E
Quad and India's Strategic Dilemma
Samreen Wani