NIAS Area Studies
PAKISTAN READER
Photo : ANDREW MEDICHINI/ASSOCIATED PRESS
IN FOCUS
By Padmashree Anandhan
On 12 June, Italy’s former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi passes away at the age of 86 in Milan. Berlusconi started his career in real estate and went on to establish a “media empire” in 1974 using the profits from his real estate ventures. Later he expanded into 150 businesses, such as publishing, commercial stores, and a soccer club.
In 1994, Berlusconia established his own political party and went on to serve as prime minister for three terms spanning from 1994 to 2011. Multiple scandals in tax fraud, bribery, sex scandals and, most importantly Italy’s economic shortfall paved the way for his fall. Despite that, he played a key role in Italy’s politics till his death.
According to Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, he was seen as the most influential in Italy’s history and praised for his “courage and determination.” She said: "With him, Italy learned that it must never allow itself to be limited, and it must never give up."
Berlusconi: A Short biography
Berlusconi began a real estate business for young men and women with an aim to bring a posh “lifestyle-driven clientele.” He was well known to be a businessman than a politician with persuasion and always on the urge to seek the crowd approval. For some, during his term Italy’s society, culture and politics had a transformation. He was also the first prime minister to have served without being an elected official and had a good hold on geopolitics.
The creation of Forza Italia in 1994 was supported by many young Italians and democratic societies creating a cult. This helped him to serve three times. To support his political party, he formed alliance with Northern League to include northern Italy and post-fascist groups which helped in increasing his popularity. Later, the coalition became the basis for launching Meloni as a politician, who was made the youngest government minister under the alliance in 2008.
How he dealt with crisis and failure?
During the 2008 financial crisis, Berlusconi missing to portray the crisis and not taking enough measures led to grind down of Italy’s economy. This led to unsustainable debt levels resulting in people losing confidence in him. Despite his counter to introduce measures to tackle the crisis, it was taken to protect his pubic image than real impact to economy. Due to which Italy’s recovery slowed which still differentiates it from rest of the developed countries. Followed by the reputational damage over the financial crisis, and expose of the tax fraud and scandals, Berlusconi modified laws and introduced new measures to avoid trials, save his image and at the same to boost his businesses.
What does he leave behind?
Despite his resignation in 2011, remained a highly influential “political powerbroker,” till his last day. Although Berlusconi was equally loved and hated, his leadership style of giving importance to centrality and speaking the common people language is shared by Meloni. From the point of Italy’s leader, his actions in establishing commercial tv, soccer, politics and economic have always remained unconventional.
References
“The death of Silvio Berlusconi creates uncertainty for his party,” The Economist, 13 June 2023
Davide Ghiglione, and Sam Hancock, “Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi dies at 86,” BBC, 13 June 2023
“Silvio Berlusconi was Italy’s great seducer,” The Economist, 12 June 2023
Jason Horowitz and Rachel Donadio, “Silvio Berlusconi, a Showman Who Upended Italian Politics and Culture, Dies at 86,” The New York Times, 12 June 2023
Kelly Phillips Erb, "Berlusconi Leaves Behind A Complicated Legacy Involving Politics, Soccer And Tax Fraud," Forbes.com, 13 June 2023.
War in Ukraine: Day 475
By Rishika Yadav
War on the Ground
On 13 June, EFE reported on the comments made by the mayor of Kryvyi Rih city, Oleksandr Vilkul, that at least ten civilians were killed in a large-scale Russian missile strike on the hometown of Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with 28 others injured. The strike was carried out with cruise missiles, hit a five-story residential building, causing casualties and fires. On the counteroffensive, Ukraine reported advances in operations near Bakhmut and Zaporizhzhia. Ukrainian forces have gained control of significant areas, including the outskirts of the Russian-occupied port of Berdyansk.
On 12 June, Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar announced that in the past week, Ukraine's Armed Forces had freed seven settlements as part of the counteroffensive. Maliar stated that the military had regained 90 square kilometers of land, with advances of up to five kilometeres in Bakhmut. On the same, UK’s Parliament's Defence Committee reports that a "major attack" by Ukraine against Russian forces in the Donbas region may occur in the coming days.
On 13 June, Zelenskyy held a meeting with IAEAs Director General, Rafael Grossi as part of his visit to Zaporizhzhia. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Grossi's prompt response to the Ukraine’s challenges, particularly the increased risks to the security of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant due to Russia's destruction of the Kakhovka dam. The discussion focused on minimizing risks, preventing incidents, and collaborating with the IAEA. Zelenskyy also endorsed Grossi's proposal to send a group of IAEA experts to assess the consequences of the dam explosion and provide assistance recommendations.
The Moscow View
Claims by Russia
On 13 June, RT news reported on Russia’s President Vladimir Putin address at Kremlin on Moscow's military objectives in the Ukraine War. He stated that the objectives remain unchanged. He emphasized the gradual demilitarization of Ukraine, due to its reliance on Western weapons and equipment. On Ukraine’s counteroffensive, Putin stated that Kyiv had suffered heavy casualties and equipment losses, “without success in any sector.” On the possibility of new recruitment, he mentioned that it would occur only upon decision to march on Kyiv. On Russia’s defence industry, Putin stated that it had increased ten fold, while Ukraine had begun to depend more on the West.
On 13 June, RT news reported on the Russian Defence Ministry claim that Ukrainian forces suffered heavy losses in two unsuccessful assaults near Artyomovsk. The attacks targeted Russian positions near Kleshceevka, resulting in the loss of 350 soldiers, two armored vehicles, and six others. Additionally, according to the report, Ukrainian offensives near the Vremevsky ledge and the settlements of Makarovka and Rovnopol were repelled by Russian forces, leading to the destruction of tanks, armoured personnel carriers, and other military equipment. Despite Ukraine's ongoing attempts to breach Russian defences as part of a counteroffensive, they have not achieved success thus far. Putin noted that Kyiv’s casualties were greater than expected during offensive operations.
On 13 June, TASS reported on a meeting between Putin and war correspondents. He was reported to have highlightedRussia's rearmament efforts over the past eight years, creating a strong foundation for the military. While acknowledging the need for more drones, he emphasized Russia's effective utilization of the ones available, particularly in countering Ukrainian tank attacks. Putin expressed the desire for improved quality and quantity of unmanned systems, as well as more effective means of counter-battery warfare as requested by soldiers on the frontline.
The West View
Responses from the US and Europe
On 13 June, AP news reported on the announcement made by the US State Department. According to the report, the Pentagon would provide Ukraine with a new military aid package worth up to USD 325 million, consisting of various rockets, missiles, and munitions. This support aims to strengthen Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russia and will include critical air defence systems, armoured vehicles, and weaponry such as Stingers and Javelin missiles. The US has now committed nearly USD 40 billion in equipment and weapons to Ukraine since the Russian attack in February 2022, with this aid being swiftly delivered under presidential drawdown authority.
On 13 June, the European Commission and the European Investment Bank (EIB) reached an agreement to provide Ukraine with EUR 100 million in new loans for fast recovery, focusing on municipal and energy infrastructure repairs. This funding is made possible by an EU guarantee and is part of the EU for Ukraine (EU4U) Initiative, which includes the EU4 Ukraine Fund and a EUR 100 million technical assistance package from the EIB. The loans, to be signed later in 2023, will be disbursed upon Ukraine's request and will contribute to addressing the country's urgent recovery needs following Russia's aggression. The EU has provided substantial support to Ukraine, with a total of EUR 70 billion in assistance, including EUR 2.4 billion from the EIB backed by an EU guarantee.
The Global Fallouts
Implications of the War
On 13 June, Belarus’s President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that his country had received some of Russia's tactical nuclear weapons and asserted his willingness to use them in the event of aggression against Belarus. These statements contradict Russian President Vladimir Putin's earlier remarks, where he stated that Russian nuclear weapons would be deployed to Belarus but remain under Moscow's control. Putin had previously announced the planned deployment as a warning to the West amidst increased military support for Ukraine. Lukashenko confirmed that preparations for the weapons' deployment were complete and implied that they would be received shortly. He emphasized the power of the Russian nuclear weapons, which he claimed were three times more potent than the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Lukashenko clarified that he would consult with Putin before using the weapons but expressed confidence in their coordination. Lukashenko justified the deployment as a deterrent against potential aggression and stated that Belarus was also preparing facilities for intercontinental nuclear-tipped missiles.
References
“Russian missile strike claims 10 civilians in Zelenskyy’s hometown,” efe.com, 13 June 2023
Dinara Khalilova, “Defense Ministry: Ukraine liberates 7 settlements, regains 90 square kilometers over past week,” The Kyiv Independent, 14 June 2023
“Head of State met with IAEA Director General,” president.gov.ua, 13 June 2023
“Here’s what Putin told journalists about Russia’s goals in Ukraine conflict,” RT news, 13 June 2023
“Another Ukrainian offensive repelled near Artyomovsk – Moscow,” RT news, 13 June 2023
“Russia still does not have enough drones — Putin,” TASS, 13 June 2023
Baldor and Matthew Lee, “US sending $325 million package of military aid to Ukraine,” AP news, 13 June 2023
“New EU contribution for EIB's Ukraine support package to enable new lending of €100 million,” eeas.europa.eu, 13 June 2023
“Leader of Belarus says he wouldn’t hesitate to use Russian nuclear weapons to repel aggression,” AP news, 13 June 2023
IN BRIEF
By Sneha Surendran, Melvin George and Prerana P
FRANCE
The Canua Floating Island project fails to achieve the permits
On 13 June, the Canua Island project was declared a failure due to various environmental concerns. The island project consisting of a restaurant, bar and pools, was secured at the port of La Seyne-sur-Mer in southeast France. The organisers declared that the government denied the permit, which states the project to be a “victim of a political vendetta”. The island project has invested over EUR 16 million. The government claimed the project was: “an artificial island” and warned about the negative impact of over-urbanisation and sea-plagued pollution. Further, the government declared the project to be unfit for environmental policy. (“French Riviera floating island project dropped over environmental concerns,” Le Monde, 13 June 2023)
ICELAND
A win for the LGBTQ+ community
On 09 June, Iceland passed a bill that was tabled by a member of the Liberal Reform Party which will ban conversion therapy for the LGBTQ+ community. 53 members of the Parliament voted for the proposal. (Michael K. Lavers, “Iceland becomes latest country to ban conversion therapy,” Washington Blade, 12 June 2023)
ITALY
State mourns and pays last tribute for Silvio Berlusconi in Milan
On 14 June, the State funeral for the Ex Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi will be led by the Archbishop of Milan in the Cathedral of Milan. The day will be observed as a day of national mourning and all the European flags on public buildings will be lowered half-staff. The main square is presumed to be filled with thousands of people to pay the last tribute. The questions about the future of his business empire, its successors are looming around. Political instability in Forza Italia, the political party started by him will loom after the national mourning. (Sofia Bettiza, “Italy mourns and asks who will succeed Berlusconi,” BBC News, 14 June 2023)
NORTHERN IRELAND
June temperature hits highest in five years
On 13 June, the Met Office announced that Northern Ireland is under heatwave conditions with temperatures exceeding 25 degree Celsius for the last three days. The office said that this happened in Antrim and Londonderry in the north-west. On the same day the temperature marked the highest in five years with 29 degree Celsius in Ballywatticock. Armag measured twenty eight degree Celsius followed by Magilligan with twenty seven degree Celsius marking the day as the hottest of the year. The forecast said that the temperature will be around mid twenties for the rest of the week or possibly even higher. (“Northern Ireland is officially experiencing a heatwave,” BBC News, 14 June 2023)
NORWAY
Norway plans to dive into the Arctic waters for minerals
On 13 June, High North news reported that Norway is exploring the possibilities of deep-sea mining from the latitude of Bodo and the Norwegian Sea to Svalbard in the Barents Sea. The goal is the extraction of polymetallic nodules that contain copper, nickel, cobalt and other metals for use in the energy industry. The proposal has run into concerns from environmentalists and fishing communities even as the government assures that ocean life will not be harmed. However, the scientific community, including the European Academy of Sciences has flagged the harmful impacts of tampering with the sea floors. Further, due to the Svalbard Treaty, apart from Norway, European Union countries, Russia and the US could also stake claim to mining in the Arctic. Advocates for this proposal are of the view that Norway could become the headliner in sustainable deep-sea mining in the world. (“Norway Aims to Open Arctic Waters to Deep-Sea Mining,” High North News, 13 June 2023)
TURKEY
Erdogan demands recognition of Northern Cyprus
On 12 June, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan came up with a two-state solution in Cyprus after he visited the northern Mediterranean. He explained the recognition of the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus as the primary solution. Northern Cyprus has a majority of Turkish Cypriots and Turkish settlers. Ankara is the only city which recognises Northern Cyprus, while the EU considers the entire part to itself. Erdogan said: “Turkish Cypriots have never been and never will be a minority.” Further, Turkey is a major regional contributor and holds a more significant military force in the Northern Cyprus region. Over 65 per cent approved the UN’s referendum to reunite the island, while Southern Cyprus consisting of Greek Cypriots, is against Turkey’s plan to divide the Mediterranean. (“Erdogan demands international recognition of northern Cyprus,” Euronews, 13 June 2023)
CLIMATE CHANGE
Climate activists got fined for damaging the statue in Vatican Museum
On 13 June, DW News reported that the Vatican City State Tribunal fined two climate activists from Ultima Generazione (Last Generation) for damaging the statue at the Vatican Museum. The activists were punished with a suspended prison sentence and fined EUR 30000 for glueing themselves to the base of the Laocoon statue. Another activist was slammed with a suspended sentence of EUR 120. The activist group accused the government of incentivising fossil fuel companies. (“Vatican court fines climate activists over museum protest,” Deutshce Welle, 13 June 2023)
REGIONAL
Impact of Air Defender 23 drills on major airports
On 13 June, Euronews reported the massive knock-on effect on busy airports, due to the Air Defender exercise. Around 800 flights will be rerouted over Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands. European nations have expressed their struggle to manage the post-pandemic air traffic and, French authorities have alerted on strike. Over 25 countries, including the US, have contributed 10,000 military personnel and 250 combat aircraft for the drill. Commercial pilots navigated the airspace into three directions: north, south and east, as these zones stay restricted for civilian airlines. The busiest airports like London’s Heathrow and Gatwick are highly affected. Luftwaffe chief reminded peace and freedom to be the main objective behind the drill. Further, General Gerhartz emphasises: “This exercise is not directed against anyone,” and promised to finish it before the summer holidays. (“Flight delayed” A show of NATO’s military might over Germany could be behind it,” Euronews, 13 June 2023).
Amnesty International reproaches Finland’s healthcare sector
On 13 June, Helsinki Times reported that in an extensively researched report titled “Tiedan etten saa apua” (I know I won’t receive help), Amnesty International has spotlighted the healthcare inequality in Finland. Finland has a double layered healthcare system. People who use public healthcare services face problems such as long waiting hours, failed appointments and quick digitalization due to the COVID pandemic. However, economically well-off individuals have the means to access private healthcare options. This inequitable access to healthcare has led to social distrust in the country. Finland has been reducing funds to the healthcare sector since the 1990s. This coupled with the decrease in resources and healthcare professionals has pushed international human rights organizations to urge the country to take quick remedies. (“Amnesty International report highlights health inequality and lack of access to healthcare in Finland,” Helsinki Times, 13 June 2023)
Scraping veto can cause negative impact on smaller nations
On 13 June, Euronews reported on whether the EU would move from unanimity to a qualified majority. Putin’s decision to a full-scale invasion of Ukraine has often united the bloc’s 27 member states causing embarrassment to Brussels. The reason for the malfunction includes the unanimity voting rule policy of the EU granting the nation a unique veto power. Defenders claim that the veto acts as a shield for smaller countries. Strengthen democratic ties and negotiations. In contrast, the critics claim veto power has hindered their decision-making authority. A classic event, the Treaty of Lisbon reinforced the unanimity rule in foreign policy, taxation and budget. Member nations like Hungary deliberately used veto power to protect their national and economic interests. Thus, scraping off the veto power can affect various member nations. (Jorge Liboreiro, “The EU has the tools to move from unanimity to qualified majority. But it’s a classic Catch-22,” Euronews, 13 June 2023)