Photo Source: Prime Minister's Office in Japan
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The World This Week
Tenth Pacific Island Leaders Meeting and President Biden’s Address
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GP Team
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The World This Week #272, Vol. 6 No. 26, 28 July 2024
Femy Francis and Dhriti Mukherjee
Japan and the Pacific: Tenth Pacific Island Leaders Meeting (PALM 10)
Femy Francis
What happened?
On 16 July, Japan held the 10th Pacific Island Leaders Meeting in Tokyo. The meeting was attended by representatives of 18 Pacific Island Forum members. Japanese Prime Minster Fumio Kishida also participated in the meeting where he said: “I'd like to make ties between Japan and the Pacific Island nations stronger and demonstrate to the rest of the world that we are moving in the same direction.” The summit ended with a joint declaration issued by the member countries on peace and security in the region, strengthening economic ties, and Climate Change and Disaster management measures. The declaration also asserted that they oppose: “any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by the threat or use of force or coercion,” hinting at China’s aggressive posture in the region.
On 18 July, the summit's final day, member countries issued a Leaders' Declaration and a Joint Action Plan. The action plan proposed seven areas of cooperation: political leadership and regionalism, people-centered development, peace and security, resources and economic development, climate change and disasters, ocean and environment, technology, and connectivity. The leaders also committed to the PALM partnership towards 2050. On climate change, the countries' leaders unanimously shared their concerns regarding the crisis. Kishida iterated that Japan would continue to promote cooperation with the Pacific Island countries on health and education exchanges. Japan also called to establish a: “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP),” with countries who share common values and principles.
What is the background?
First, a brief background to the PALM. The beginning of the Pacific Island Leader Meeting goes back to the Japan-South Pacific Forum (SPF) held in Tokyo in 1997. The second summit was held in 2000, where Japan established: “The Pacific Common Frontier Institute.” Pacific Asia relations were based on three pillars of sustainable development, dealing with regional and global issues and establishing partnerships between Japan and the Pacific Island countries. Since then, Japan has been hosting this summit every three years.
Second, Japan's interest in the Pacific. Tokyo is a major provider of Official Development Assistance (ODA) aimed at developing tools to strengthen maritime surveillance among the Pacific countries. Japan’s primary relations with the Pacific Island countries have been built on fisheries relations. Japan's security cooperation with the Pacific Island countries focused on development aid and furthering maritime surveillance. During this summit, Tokyo announced its plans to supply one fisheries research vessel free of cost to each Pacific Island country. This initiative is to dispel concerns regarding Fukushima-treated water release.
Third, the China factor in the Pacific. In recent years, China has extended its sphere of influence to the Pacific, especially through infrastructure projects. They have heavily invested in building sports stadiums, advanced healthcare facilities, roads, and bridges. The growing pivot towards China can be seen when, in 2019, Solomon Island severed its ties with Taiwan and reinstated its ties with Beijing. In July, China announced an additional USD 20 million investment for the Solomon airport project. China also donated USD 31 million to Vanuatu’s presidential palace. Nauru also switched its ties with Taiwan and signed a diplomatic pact with China in 2024.
What does it mean?
First, Japan’s influence in the Pacific. The summit aims to bolster Japan’s relations with the Pacific Island countries. Japan’s presence also represents its other Western allies like the US who are increasingly worried about the Chinese presence.
Second, deterring Chinese influence in the Pacific. The declaration hinted at the Chinese presence in the region and how the PALM countries are against any unilateral moves to change the status quo. New Zealand's "Maritime Security Strategy 2024," pointed out that it is against “Certain countries are increasingly exercising hard power to test the limits of the rules-based international system, at the expense of rules that serve smaller countries like New Zealand.” The above statements expressed concerns over increased Chinese influence in the Pacific. Therefore, countering China in the Pacific is in Japan’s and its ally's interest.
Third, the Pacific Island countries and big powers. The meeting also shows how the Pacific Island countries are leveraging external stakeholders in the region by engaging with all. The smaller Pacific Island countries have been welcoming to Chinese investment in the region. Their presence and the issuance of the joint declaration in PALM 10 showcase that they are balancing external actors and would leverage the players for its benefit.
Biden’s Oval Office address on standing down from the Presidential race: Four key takeaways
Dhriti Mukherjee
What happened?
On 24 July, US President Joe Biden delivered an Oval Office address, where he detailed his reasons for dropping out of the presidential campaign while touching on other topics of national importance and relevance. He emphasised that while he revered the office, the time had come to “pass the torch to a new generation” of fresh and younger voices. Biden also endorsed US Vice President Kamala Harris, describing her as “tough” and “capable.”
Following are four key takeaways from his ten-minute address.
1. A defence of democracy
Biden stated that while it was the “honour” of his life to serve as the president of the US, he had to make the decision to drop out in the “defence of democracy, which is at stake.” He pointed out how the task of “perfecting” the union of America was not about him, but about the people of the country and their futures. However, he lamented that the US is at an “inflection point,” meaning that today’s decisions will determine the fate of the US and the “world for decades to come.” Even though his accomplishments as president “merited a second term,” he could not let his “personal ambition” become an obstacle in “preserving” democracy.
2. A reminder of the American dream
During his speech, Biden drew inferences from past presidents including George Washington, who proved that presidents are not kings, Abraham Lincoln, who called for the rejection of malice, and Franklin Roosevelt, who inspired the dismissal of fear. Biden spoke on the American dream by taking his example and pointing out that the US is the only “special” place where someone from “modest beginnings” could become president. This is because in the US, “kings and dictators do not rule, the people do.”
However, given the inflection point, Americans have to decide between “moving forward or backward, between hope and hate, between unity and division.” Biden questioned whether the US, which is a “great nation” because of its “good people,” still upholds values of honesty, decency, respect, freedom, justice, and democracy. He claimed that when he came to office four years ago, the “soul of America” and the nature of its people were “at stake,” and that is the case currently as well.
Describing America as an “idea stronger than any army, bigger than any ocean, more powerful than any dictator,” he asserted that all Americans are “created equal.” Though Americans have never “fully lived up” to the “sacred” idea, in which all citizens have inalienable rights to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness, they have never “walked away from it either.” The US has always remained a nation of opportunities, dreamers, and of ordinary people doing “extraordinary things.”
3. A glance into his accomplishments
Biden illustrated how the country has come “so far” since his inauguration. He prided himself on being the first US president in this century who could say that the US is not at war, and on the fact that the “conventional wisdom” that China would grow to surpass the US is not the case anymore. Despite the “worst pandemic in the century,” the worst economic situation and attack on democracy since the Great Depression and the Civil War respectively, the US emerged “stronger, more prosperous, and more secure.” From an economic perspective, the country has the “strongest economy” globally, with a record of 16 million new jobs, higher wages, lower inflation, the lowest racial wealth gap in the last 20 years, and a return of manufacturing.
From a healthcare perspective, “most people” in the US have access to healthcare, and the cost of prescription drugs for senior citizens was lowered. Biden also signed “one of the most significant laws” which helped millions of veterans and their families that were exposed to toxic materials. From a security perspective, violent crime rate is at a 50-year low while border crossings are lower than when the previous administration left office. Additionally, significant laws on gun safety and climate change were signed, while commitments on appointing the first Black woman to the Supreme Court and having an administration that “looks like America” were fulfilled.
4. A sizeable to-do list
Despite there being only a few months left for him in office, Biden spoke about a lengthy list of objectives he seeks to accomplish in the next six months. Economically, he will help growth by continuing to lower costs for “hard-working families,” while politically, he will defend freedoms and civil rights, while calling out “hate and extremism,” which have no place in the US. Focus will also be placed on eliminating gun violence and working to combat climate change.
Biden assured he would keep fighting for his “cancer moonshot” to bring an end to cancer. With regard to security, he asserted that his administration would keep “rallying a coalition of proud nations” and strengthen NATO to stop the war in Ukraine. Further, he will work towards bringing “peace and security to the Middle East,” ending the war and bringing hostages home.
TWTW Regional Roundups
News from around the world
Rohini Reenum, Akriti Sharma, Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph, Femy Francis, Dhriti Mukherjee, Nuha Amina, Samrudhi Pathak, Sachin Aravind, Sayeka Ghosh, Ayan Datta, Vetriselvi Baskaran and Neha Tresa George
CHINA THIS WEEK
China: President Xi Jinping chairs Standing Committee on Disaster Relief Work
On 25 July, Chinese President Xi Jinping chaired a meeting with the standing committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CPC) political bureau to discuss and arrange for flood control and relief. July to August is the peak season for heavy rainfall, posing a threat to the communities living along the river and coastlines. It is reckoned that all seven major river basins will experience flooding. The Chinese Meteorological Centre has issued a red alert over Typhoon Gaemi, which is expected to reach the inland region. The meeting called for minimising casualties and called for a prompt relocation of those in danger. They also discussed that disaster relief funds should be promptly allocated and that appropriate measures should be taken to ensure that medical services are provided. An estimated number of 628,600 people in Fujian province were affected by the Typhoon.
China: Russia conducts unprecedented joint air patrol near Alaska
On 24 July, Russia and China conducted their first joint bomber patrol over the North Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea, near Alaska’s coast. The operation involved Russian TU-95MS strategic missile carriers and Chinese Xian H-6 strategic bombers. Although both nations asserted that the patrol was “not aimed at any third party,” it drew attention from US officials. North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) intercepted the bombers but noted that they remained in international airspace and posed no threat. However, Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski described it as an “unprecedented provocation by our adversaries.” Meanwhile, the Press Secretary of Russian President, Dmitry Peskov countered that Russian-Chinese cooperation in the Arctic would contribute to “stability and predictability” in the region. This event underscores the growing military alignment between Moscow and Beijing, particularly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
China: Foreign Minister visits Laos for ASEAN meeting
On 25 July, an editorial in Global Times reported on Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s arrival in Vientiane for the ASEAN meeting. The meeting highlighted a delicate balance between regional cooperation and tensions in the South China Sea region. ASEAN members recognize the complexity of the issue and prioritise development and prosperity, according to Global Times. The theme of the meeting was: “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience.” It aimed to address various challenges, including economic difficulties, climate change, and security issues. Key topics included infrastructure development, economic growth, and negotiations on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement version 3.0.
China: Russia reaffirm their strategic partnership in the Asia-Pacific
On 25 July, during a meeting in Vientiane, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov emphasised the strength of their nations’ relationship and their commitment to regional cooperation. Wang highlighted the “mature, stable, resilient and independent” nature of China-Russia ties, stressing their readiness to support each other’s core interests despite international challenges. Both ministers expressed their dedication to maintaining ASEAN’s central role in regional architecture and opposed external interference. Lavrov commended China's recent diplomatic success in facilitating Palestinian unity talks and pledged Russia's support for Middle East peace efforts.
China: Brokers Palestinian factions’ unification with “National reconciliation government”
On 23 July, BBC reported on the formation of an interim “National reconciliation government” concerning the seizure of the West Bank and Gaza through the signing of a declaration by Hamas and Fatah brokered by the Chinese. Officials and twelve Palestinian groups have promised to work in harmony after the talks held in Beijing. The international spokesperson of Hamas, Husam Badran said the declaration was a positive step in achieving Palestinian national unity. The report also added that there was no confirmation from the Fatah on the declaration. Meanwhile, the Israelis promptly dismissed the Beijing declaration. The Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi defined a three-step plan to address the war inclusive two-state solution and UN membership.
EAST ASIA THIS WEEK
Japan: Population falls by 0.7 per cent for the 15th year
On 24 July, government data revealed that the number of Japanese residents has fallen by 0.7 per cent or 861,237 as of 01 January. This marks the “steepest decline” for the 15th consecutive year. Though Tokyo’s population rose by 3,933 or 0.3 per cent, for the first time in 3 years, the 46 other prefectures experienced a continued decline. While the total Japanese population is 121,561,801, the number of foreign residents has risen to 3,323,374 resulting in a rise of 11.0 per cent.
North Korea: Belarus's Foreign Minister plans to visit the country
On 22 July, Belarusian Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov announced his plan to visit North Korea. This visit will mark a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations with implications for a potential trilateral alliance including Russia. This diplomatic move comes amid increasing Western sanctions on all three countries. According to ABC News, experts suggest the visit will focus on establishing partnerships, building upon North Korea's recent defence pact with Russia and Belarus’ close ties to Moscow. The meeting follows Belarusian President Lukashenko’s suggestion of “three-way cooperation” during talks with Putin last September. With accusations of North Korea supplying arms to Russia for its Ukraine campaign, and Belarus allowing Russian military presence, this visit underscores the deepening relationships among these internationally isolated nations.
South Korea: President sends envoy to Czech Republic to discuss nuclear project
On 23 July, President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea dispatched special envoys to the Czech Republic, following the selection of a South Korean consortium as the preferred bidder for a major nuclear power plant project. Presidential Chief of Staff Sung Tae-Yoon and Industry Minister Ahn Duk-Geun will meet with Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Industry Minister Jozef Sikela during their three-day visit. The presidential spokesperson Jeong Hye-jeon stated that the envoys will deliver President Yoon's gratitude and discuss “follow-up measures, including the establishment of a government-to-government hotline,” This USD 17.3 billion project, if finalised, would mark South Korea's first overseas nuclear power plant construction since 2009.
New Zealand: Rising drug use, a study by the National Drug Intelligence Bureau
On 23 July, a study by the National Drug Intelligence Bureau stated that New Zealand is facing an alarming increase in drug consumption, particularly methamphetamine and cocaine. National Drug Intelligence Bureau Detective Inspector Tim Chao reported that Kiwis are using approximately 17.5 kilograms of meth and 03.3 kilograms of cocaine weekly. This surge in drug use is having a significant economic impact, with meth alone costing the country an estimated USD 19.4 million per week in social harm. Chao noted that regional towns are experiencing the highest per capita meth consumption, often correlating with areas of higher deprivation. The rise in drug use is attributed to increased global availability, with most illicit substances being imported. Cocaine use is also on the upswing, though the reasons are less clear.
New Caledonia: The Pacific Islands Forum to send a delegation to New Caledonia
On 20 July 2024, Radio New Zealand reported that due to the existing political turmoil in the French territory, it was aiming to send top delegations to New Caledonia for investigations. The news was confirmed in Tokyo after the PALM 10 meeting. The Prime Minister of Cook Islands Mark Brown confirmed the request for a top Pacific delegation by the government of Caledonia. RNZ reported Brown’s opinion of French Support for the delegation and the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) disapproval of France’s political handling of the ongoing situation. He further emphasised the rejection of the third referendum. The RNZ also covered New Caledonia’s Advisor Charles Wea's announcement at PALM 10 in Japan that the high-level delegation will consist of leaders from Fiji, Cook Islands, Tonga, and Solomon Islands.
SOUTH ASIA THIS WEEK
India: Foreign Minister attends ASEAN meetings
On 25 July, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended multiple ASEAN meetings in Laos. He also met with Foreign Ministers of the UK, Japan, Australia, China, and Russia. On 25 July, he met with Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi and reviewed the resolution of the remaining issues along the LAC to enhance and stabilise bilateral relations. He will be attending the QUAD Summit next.
Pakistan: Islamabad urges Germany to take immediate action against the miscreants of Consulate attack in Frankfurt
On 21 July, Pakistan urged Germany to take immediate action against the perpetrators of the “security breach” incident that took place in the Pakistani Consulate in Frankfurt. On 20 July, a “gang of extremists” or a group of Afghan nationals attacked the Pakistan Consulate and attempted to remove and burn the Pakistani flag. The video of the incident went viral, and one of the men was seen holding the Afghan flag. Reports also mentioned that they pelted stones on the consulate building. In this regard, Pakistan condemned the attack and German police for not having made any arrests so far. However, The News International reported that some arrests were made for further investigation. The Foreign Office (FO) of Pakistan summoned the German ambassador in Islamabad to “lodge a strong protest over the vandalism of Pakistan’s diplomatic mission” and urged Germany to fulfil its obligations under the Vienna Conventions on Consular Relations, 1963. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slammed the Afghan nationals and asked the government to “rethink its hospitality towards Afghan citizens.”
Pakistan: Anthem to celebrate 97th PLA anniversary
On 21 July, The Express Tribune reported that to commemorate the 97th anniversary of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Pakistan has “unveiled” an anthem that celebrates the bond shared by the two countries. The lyrics “poetically” capture “the essence of their friendship.” It describes how the peaks of the Himalayas seem less significant than the “bond” they hold and its “depths appear shallow next to the strength of” their “friendship.”
Pakistan: Traders denied entry to Afghanistan
On 23 July, Dawn revealed that Pakistani traders and workers are being denied entry into Afghanistan “despite the reopening of the Chaman border crossing.” Pakistanis who possess “national identity documents” are also being denied entry. Earlier, there were “successful negotiations” between “leaders of a sit-in protest” at the border town. They had decided to allow nationals from both countries to travel across upon producing their “respective national identity cards.” The leaders had accepted that “their anti-state stance had defamed Pakistan,” and that they had used it “solely for political gain.” Former Interior Minister, Malik Inayat Kasi had announced the resumption of “movement across the border” and made it clear that all border matters “will solely” be negotiated “with the Laghari Union” and “not with individual Khans or Maliks.” However, Afghan officials have conveyed “displeasure” at their exclusion from the consultation process.
Pakistan: US seeks USD 101 million to assist Islamabad
On 23 July, the US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu stated that the US administration sought USD 101 million for Pakistan to “strengthen democracy, fight terrorism, and stabilise the country’s economy,” A budget request was presented for South and Central Asian Affairs to the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee. It seeks a total of USD 1.01 billion in foreign assistance for the South and Central Asian region, to help it “compete with the People’s Republic of China (PRC), counter Russian and Chinese disinformation, and prevent terrorist groups from threatening the US security.” Additional resources would be given to South Asia, for which the president requested USD 585.7 million for the region, a 4.84 per cent increase from the last budget.
Pakistan: Remains the fourth worst passport in the fourth consecutive year
On 25 July, Dawn reported that the Henley Passport Index released its ranking of the world’s 199 passports, in which passports are ranked based on the number of destinations their holders can access without getting a visa beforehand. Pakistan remained in the bottom five for the fourth consecutive time and was ranked the fourth worst. Pakistan’s and Yemen’s passports allow their citizens to travel to 33 countries without a visa. The number is higher than only Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan. Afghanistan turned out to be the weakest passport this year, with only 26 visa-free travel destinations, the lowest number recorded in the last 19 years. Another record was established by Singapore this year, which had the strongest passport with 195 visa-free travel destinations for its holders. The passport strength remains a concern for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
Pakistan: Meeting with Chinese finance minister, holds talks on economic cooperation
On 25 July, Pakistan’s economic team met Chinese Minister of Finance Lan Fo’an in Beijing, where they discussed issues related to Pakistan’s economy. The team encompassed the Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, and the Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari. The meeting focused on major financial cooperation and discussions regarding the Panda Bonds issuance, reprofiling of loans, and conversion of imported coal power plants on Thar coal. During the meeting, the Pakistani ministers presented a brief on the government’s effort to implement tax and energy reforms in the system. Both sides exchanged their ideas to foster the economic partnership, particularly focussed on the financial and banking sectors. Aurangzeb and Leghari also met the President of Chinese insurance company M/s Sinosure, Sheng Hetai, and held discussions on strengthening bilateral cooperation and expanding CPEC.
Pakistan: Foreign Office regards PM Modi’s remarks as “belligerent”
On 26 July, the Foreign Office (FO) refuted the “belligerent remarks” made by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. A day earlier, on 25 July, Modi said during an event in Ladakh that Pakistan has “not learned anything from its history.” He addressed Pakistan as a patron of "terrorism,” saying that the Indian forces would “give a befitting reply” to its “unholy plans.” In response, the FO issued a statement, declaring India’s “bravado and jingoism” was “totally counterproductive” in arriving at a resolution over the Kashmir dispute. The FO added that these “rhetorical statements cannot deflect international attention” from the disputed Jammu and Kashmir. It urged India to “reflect on its campaign” of carrying out “targeted assassinations, subversion and terrorism” in the land beyond the territory. It warned that Pakistan is determined to protect its sovereignty with a “robust response” to any “reckless” Indian “incursion.”
MIDDLE-EAST THIS WEEK
Saudi Arabia: Mining Minister to visit Brazil and Chile to boost EV, diversify oil economy
On 21 July, Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia’s Minister for Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayaf, would visit Brazil and Chile to meet representatives of mining companies and launch lithium production projects. Through such ventures, Saudi Arabia aimed to diversify its oil-based economy, expand into the international mining sector, and become a hub of Electric Vehicle (EV) production.
Israel: Hamas and Fatah sign Beijing Declaration to form post-war unity government
On 23 July, representatives of 14 Palestinian groups, including Hamas and Fatah, signed the “Beijing Declaration on Ending Division and Strengthening Palestinian National Unity.” The Declaration resulted from negotiations between the Palestinian groups between 21 and 23 July with Chinese mediation. Although China did not release the full text of the declaration, its Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Palestinian groups agreed to form a unity government for the West Bank and Gaza after the war and reaffirmed their commitment to an independent Palestinian State. Diplomats from Egypt, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Russia and Türkiye attended the signing ceremony.
Israel: Prime Minister Netanyahu addresses US Congress
On 24 July, according to Haaretz, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of the US Congress. Netanyahu envisioned a “demilitarised and deradicalised Gaza” under Israel’s “overriding security control,” demanding that Gaza should be administered by “Palestinians who do not seek to destroy Israel.” He called for an “Abraham Alliance” in the Middle East to counter Iran as a “natural extension” of the Abraham Accords. The Israeli leader praised former US President Donald Trump’s leadership and his decision to shift the US embassy to Jerusalem, reiterating that “our eternal capital will never be divided again.
United Arab Emirates: Court sentences 57 Bangladeshi protesters to prison and deportation
On 22 July, Al Jazeera reported that a UAE court sentenced 57 Bangladesh nationals to prison for protesting against the Bangladeshi government. While three protesters were awarded life sentences, 53 received ten years in prison. All the protesters would be deported following the completion of their sentences. Although the protesters were marching against Bangladesh’s quota system for government jobs, they were arrested on charges of unauthorised protests and jeopardising ties with foreign countries which were illegal in UAE.
AFRICA THIS WEEK
Ethiopia: Eritrea suspends the Ethiopian Airlines
On 25 July, Africanews reported that Eritrean authorities suspended Ethiopian Airlines flights from its airspace, which will be effective from 30 September. The Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority accused the airline of "consistent and persistent malicious trading practices along with systemic and organised passengers’ luggage theft, pilferage, damage, prolonged delays, and loss with no compensation in particular, coupled with unjustified and unwarranted price hikes and other irregularities witnessed." Ethiopian Airlines stated that they are "committed to resolving any issues amicably and promptly."
Sudan: UAE expresses support to end the civil war
On 22 July, the President of the UAE Mohammed bin Zayed expressed his country's support for ending the civil war in Sudan. The comments came during his telephone conversation with Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. He stated that the UAE is keen "to support all solutions and initiatives aimed at halting escalation and ending the crisis in Sudan." The relations between Sudan and the UAE have been tense over the allegation of the latter supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
EUROPE THIS WEEK
Finland: Government introduces law to deport asylum seekers
On 22 July, Finland introduced a controversial law that allows the country to return asylum seekers and refugees on its border with Russia. Finland has accused Russia of using migration to push a huge number of asylum seekers inside its territory. However, the law has been criticised by few human rights groups and faces push backs calling it illegal under the European Convention of Human Rights and Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. However, the EU Migration Pact, would also enter into force from 2026, paving a way for EU member states to deport asylum seekers from the global south.
EU and US plan to lend USD 50 billion to Ukraine
On 22 July, Politico reported that the EU and the US are close to approving a loan of USD 50 billion to Ukraine to fight the war. However, the US Government might have to involve Congress given the risk of taxpayers’ money. Therefore, the US has asked the EU to ensure that Russian assets are kept frozen until the loan is repaid. In June 2024, the G7 countries had agreed to provide a loan of USD 50 billion to Ukraine. G7 plans the repayment of loan through seizing Russia’s immovable assets in the West. The EU wanted to translate this deal into an EU law but the countries could find a common ground on exact contributions.
AMERICAS THIS WEEK
Venezuela: Official presidential campaign season draws to an end
On 25 July, Venezuela’s government and opposition closed the official presidential campaign season with demonstrations which saw thousands of people gather on the streets of Caracas. Venezuela’s President, Nicolás Maduro, is seeking a third term and described himself as a man of peace while talking to the crowds and denouncing his opponents as promoters of violence. Separately, the representative of the Unitary Platform Coalition, Edmundo González Urrutia, and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado were able to gather much fewer supporters. Insufficient funding and state repression against Machado and other service providers affected the opposition’s campaign rally, including poor quality sound systems. The state television also completely ignored the opposition’s event, instead airing Maduro’s rally live. While Maduro faces low popularity among voters after they blamed him for the country’s 11-year long crisis, major opposition parties have rallied behind González after boycotting elections for years.
Brazil: President Lula unveils initiative to tackle global hunger
On 24 July, Brazil’s President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, announced a global alliance against hunger and poverty as one of Brazil’s top priorities for its presidency of G20. Denouncing the continuing global hunger despite sufficient food production, Lula said hunger is “something that requires a political decision.” This initiative aims to devise a mechanism to mobilise funds and knowledge to facilitate the expansion of policies to combat inequality and poverty. A secretariat in Rome and Brasilia will manage the initiative till 2030, and half of the costs will be covered by Brazil. During a conversation with Lula, World Bank President Ajay Banga expressed his support for this initiative.
The US: Vice President Harris receives endorsement from Obamas
On 26 July, former US President Barack Obama stated on X that he told US Vice President Kamala Harris that she would “make a fantastic president.” He also added that he and his wife, former first lady Michelle Obama, have given Harris their “full support.” Both endorsed Harris, assuring that they would do “everything” they can at this “critical moment” for the US, to get her “through this election and into the Oval Office.” Michelle Obama stated that “this is going to be historic.” Despite more than a decade passing since Barack Obama was last elected, he continues to be one of the most popular voices in the Democratic Party.
The US: “Extreme heat is the new abnormal,” warns UN secretary general
On 25 July, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that billions of people globally are experiencing a climate-change-induced “extreme heat episode,” and called on countries to take action to combat the “crippling heat” that has put vulnerable communities at risk. He blamed “fossil fuel-charged, human-induced climate change” for the heat that is “increasingly tearing through economies, widening inequalities, undermining the Sustainable Development Goals, and killing people.” Guterres warned that “extreme heat is the new abnormal,” and unless sufficient action is taken by world leaders, the situation is “going to get worse.” A day earlier, the Copernicus Climate Change Service (CS3) said that the global average air surface temperature rose to 17.15 degrees Celsius on 22 July. Further, as per CS3 data, every month since June 2023 has ranked as the planet’s warmest since records began in 1940. Also on 25 July, a report published by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) highlighted that more than 70 per cent of the global workforce is now at a high risk of extreme heat. This heat has been responsible for almost 23 million workplace injuries globally, and 19,000 annual deaths.
About the Authors
Femy Francis, Dhriti Mukherjee and Vetriselvi Baskaran are Research Assistants at NIAS. Anu Maria Joseph and Padmashree Anandhan are Research Associates at NIAS. Rohini Reenum and Akriti Sharma are PhD scholars at NIAS. Ayan Datta is a postgraduate student at the University of Hyderabad. Neha Tresa George, Sayeka Ghosh, Nuha Amina, Sachin Aravind and Samrudhi Pathak are Research Interns at NIAS.
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06 August 1912: NASA’s Curiosity lands on Mars
Ayush Bhattacharjee
08 August 1914: Endurance leaves England for Antarctica Expedition
Shifa Moideen
09 August 1965: Singapore declares Independence
Vetriselvi Baskaran
Energy in Pakistan: Five Takeaways
Mugdha Chaturvedi
Nelson Mandela's South Africa: The dream and the reality
Ken B Varghese
South Africa’s 30 years of democracy
Pummy Lathigara
28 July 2005: IRA announces the end of its armed campaign
Nivetha B
29 July 1958: The US establishes NASA
Leivon Victor Lamkang
29 July 1957: IAEA comes into force
Pranesh Selvaraj
4 August 2007: The US launches Phoenix, a mission to Mars
Nandini Khandelwal
Saddam Hussein becomes the President of Iraq
Ronakk Tijoriwala
Five women organise the Women's Rights Convention in the US
Shreya Jagadeesan
23 July 2020: China Launches its First Mission to Mars
Rohit Paswan
24 July 1911: The Rediscovery of Machu Picchu
Neha Tresa George
South Africa: The Decline of the ANC
Shilpa Joseph
South Africa Elections 1996-2024: An Overview
Vetriselvi Baskaran
South Africa Election 2024: Course, Issues and Outcomes
Vetriselvi Baskaran
A surge in attacks on girl’s school in Pakistan
Dhriti Mukherjee
Growth and Investment in Pakistan: Four Takeaways
Dhriti Mukherjee
Pakistan: The decision to ban PTI
Shilpa Jospeh
Portugal: Democrats win over socialists by a thin margin
Govind Anoop
Hungary: Right Wing wins; Support shifts to Centre
Vetriselvi Baskaran
Belgium: Extremist parties see narrow win
Padmashree Anandhan
France: Rise of Far-right triggers political crisis
Karthik Manoharan
05 July 1962: The Algerian War comes to an end
Ayan Datta & Sayeka Ghosh
US Presidential Debate 2024: Trump exposes Biden’s weaknesses, promises stronger America
Vetriselvi Baskaran
One year of war in Sudan: Regional Implications
Anu Maria Joseph
Sudan: One Year of Civil War
Anu Maria Joseph
30 years after the Rwandan Genocide
Vetriselvi Baskaran
The 37th African Union Summit: Five takeaways
Anu Maria Joseph
Elections in Senegal: A democratic victory in Africa
Jerry Franklin A
South Africa Elections 2024: Five questions
Anu Maria Joseph
The Gambia: The genital cutting and the return of the FGM debate
Dhriti Mukherjee
Haiti: The UN backed Kenyan police force lands
Vetriselvi Baskaran
Punjab budget 2024-25: Prioritising Health and Initiatives
Dhriti Mukherjee
Sindh Provincial Budget 2024-25: Urban and Political
Padmashree Anandhan
European People’s Party (EPP) Leads with clear majority Country wise breakup
Neha Tresa George
EU elections - Part II: A profile of recent four elections (2004-2019)
Shilpa Joseph and Ken Varghese
Voting for the next MEPs
Femy Francis | Research Assistant at NIAS
06 May 1882: The US President signs the Chinese Exclusion Act, restricting immigration from China
Mugdha Chaturvedi
20 May 2002: East Timor becomes an independent country
Dhriti Mukherjee
Ten Years of CPEC-1 (Dasu Hydropower Project: A Profile)
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
Mallika Joseph | Adjunct Professor, NIAS
21 May 1991: LTTE human bomb assassinates Rajiv Gandhi
Padmashree Anandhan
Putin-Xi Summit: Towards a Strategic transformation in Russia-China relations
Akhil Ajith
Chang’e 6 and China’s Lunar Exploration program
Femy Francis
Antony Blinken’s China Visit
Femy Francis
China in Mexico: What, How and Why
Dhriti Mukherjee
Lawyers’ protests in Lahore: Two Reasons Why
Rohini Reenum
Protests in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir: What and Why?
Dhriti Mukherjee
9 May Violence: One Event, Different Actors, Multiple Outlooks
D Suba Chandran
The Fog of 9 May: One year after the anti-Establishment violence
Rohini Reenum
Pakistan and Wheat: From a Crisis to a Scandal
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
D Suba Chandran
Karachi: Seven Shades of Violence
Rohini Reenum
Recurrent floods in Pakistan: What and Why
Dhriti Mukherjee
Pakistan's Position on the War in Gaza
Dhriti Mukherjee
Pakistan's narrow tax base: Failures so far, challenges ahead
Sayeka Ghosh
26 April 1986: Chernobyl nuclear accident
Dhriti Mukherjee
Profile: Street Crimes in Karachi
Femy Francis
Germany and China: It’s the economy, stupid
Arya Prasad
Elections in South Korea: Six Takeaways
Alka Bala
25 Years of Euro: What lies ahead?
GP Team
75 Years of NATO
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (25 Mar- 01 Apr 2024)
Devi Chandana M
Rise in China’s Marriages
Padmashree Anandhan
Ireland: Four reasons why Prime Minister Leo Varadkar resigned
GP Team
Elections in Senegal
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week (16-22 March)
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
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week
IPRI Team
Continuing Kidnappings in Nigeria
Sivasubramanian K
09 March 1776: Adam Smith publishes “The Wealth of Nations”
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 Africa Team
Africa This Week (1 March-7 March)
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week (24 February-29 February)
Asanga Abeyagoonasekera
Sri Lanka: The rise of ultra-nationalism and elections
IPRI Team
The Battle for Avdiivka in Ukraine
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (11-17 Feb 2024)
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week
IPRI Team
Israel's Military Campaign in Rafah
NIAS Latin America Team
Latin America This Week (3-10 Feb 2024)
NIAS South Asia Team
South Asia This Week (3-10 Feb 2024)
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week (3-10 Feb 2024)
IPRI Team
Protests in Senegal
Jerry Franklin A
Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON): Five Questions
Padmashree Anandhan, Femy Francis, Rohini Reenum, Akriti Sharma, Akhil Ajith, Shamini Velayutham and Anu Maria Joseph
Expert Interview: Russia in the International Order
Bibhu Prasad Routray
Myanmar: Ethnic Armed Organizations, China’s Mediation and Continuing Fighting
Narmatha S and Anu Maria Jospeh
Ethiopia-Somalia tensions over Somaliland | Explained
CEAP Team
Taiwan elections
GP Team
Taiwan Election 2024
Femy Francis
Taiwan Election 2024: The return of DPP
IPRI Team
The War in Ukraine and Gaza
CEAP Team
NIAS- CEAP- China Reader | Daily Briefs
Padmashree Anandhan
The War in Ukraine: Drones, missiles and counterattacks
Anu Maria Joseph
Ethiopia and Sudan: Governance in deadlock
Hoimi Mukherjee | Hoimi Mukherjee is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Political Science in Bankura Zilla Saradamani Mahila Mahavidyapith.
Chile in 2023: Crises of Constitutionality
Richa Chandola | Richa Chandola is an independent scholar.
Peru in 2023: Political Tensions, Civil Unrest, and Governance Issues
Aprajita Kashyap | Aprajita Kashyap is a faculty of Latin American Studies, School of International Studies at the Jawaharlal Nehru University New Delhi.
Haiti in 2023: The Humanitarian Crisis
Shreya Pandey | Shreya Pandey is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Political Science, Xavier’s College, Ranchi. Her research interests include EU-India relations, and current trends in international relations.
Russian Invasion on Ukraine: An assessment of its impact upon unity, economy and enlargement of the EU
Binod Khanal | Binod Khanal is a Doctoral candidate at the Centre for European Studies, School of International Studies, JNU, New Delhi.
The Baltic: Energy, Russia, NATO and China
Rishika Yadav | Rishika Yadav is a Research Assistant at NIAS.
Finland in 2023: Challenges at Russia's border
Padmashree Anandhan | Padmashree Anandhan is a Research Associate at the School of Conflict and Security Studies, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangaluru.
Germany in 2023: Defence, Economy and Energy Triangle
Anu Maria Joseph | Anu Maria Joseph is a Research Assistant at NIAS.
Ethiopia and Sudan in 2023: Governance in deadlock
Nuha Aamina | Nuha Aamina is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace and Public Policy, St Joseph's University.
Thailand: Economic stability despite political instability
Alka Bala | Alka Bala is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace and Public Policy, St Joseph's University.
Myanmar in 2023: Extended Emergency, Political Instability and State-led violence
Sayani Rana | Sayani Rana is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace, and Public Policy, St Joseph's University, Bangalore.
Australia in 2023: Challenges of Economy, Employment and Immigration
Ashok Alex Luke | Ashok Alex Luke is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Political Science at CMS College, Kottayam.
China and South Asia in 2023: Advantage Beijing?
Annem Naga Bindhu Madhuri | Annem Naga Bindhu Madhuri is a postgraduate student at the Department of Defence and Strategic Studies at the University of Madras, Chennai.
China and East Asia
Femy Francis | Femy Francis is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies.
China in 2023: Cracks in the Great Wall
Amit Gupta | Dr Amit Gupta is an international security and economics analyst based in the USA
The US: The Year of Living Dangerously?
Kuri Sravan Kumar | Kuri Sravan Kumar is a PhD scholar at the Department of East Asian Studies, University of Delhi.
North Korea in 2023: Military buildups and Close Connections with Russia
Yogeshwari S | Yogeswari S is a postgraduate student at the Department of Defence and Strategic Studies at the University of Madras, Chennai.
South Korea in 2023: Addressing Climate Change and the Global Supply Chains
Abhishek Ranjan | Abhishek Ranjan is a PhD student at the Korean Studies, Centre for East Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
East Asia in 2023: Big Power Politics and New Defence Strategies
IPRI Team
Special Edition: Conflicts in 2023
NIAS Africa Team
NIAS Africa Weekly #92&93 | COP 28 and Africa
Nithyashree RB
COP28 and Africa: Priorities and Initiatives
NIAS Africa Team
NIAS Africa Weekly #91 | Failed coup in Sierra Leone
Anu Maria Joseph
Sierra Leone: A failed coup
GP Team
Henry Kissinger: A profile
NIAS Africa Team
NIAS Africa Weekly #90 | Floods in East Africa
Jerry Franklin A
Floods in East Africa
NIAS Africa Team
NIAS Africa Weekly #89 | Africa’s debate on colonial reparations
Sneha Surendran
Africa’s debate on colonial reparations
NIAS Africa Team
NIAS Africa Weekly #87&88 | Elusive Ceasefires in Sudan
Anu Maria Joseph
Sudan’s ceasefires remain elusive: Four reasons why
GP Team
UK’s AI Summit
Femy Francis
Ten years of BRI: Xi and the Beijing Summit
Femy Francis
The return of the South China Sea
Femy Francis
BRICS Summit poised as the Champion of Global South
Femy Francis
Japan-Australia's Reciprocal Access Agreement
CR Team | Avishka Ashok
China: Palestine Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’ visit emphasizes hope for statehood
NIAS Africa Team
NIAS Africa Weekly #85&86 | Niger-France ties and Liberia elections
Nithyashree RB
Liberia elections: Explained
Jerry Franklin
France's increasing unpopularity in Niger
PR Team
The Snow Leopards of Pakistan
Padmashree Anandhan
Poland elections 2023: Reasons behind the shift
Padmashree Anandhan
Ukraine: The failure of the Black Sea Grain Initiative
Annem Naga Bindhu Madhuri
Issues for Europe
Yogeswari S | CSIS
Poland’s engagement
Prof Joyati Bhattacharya
G20 Summit: India the Global Host
Anu Maria Joseph
Africa in the Indian Ocean region: Explained
Dhriti Mukherjee
Pakistan grapples with soaring electricity bills and free riders
Shamini Velayutham
Pakistan: Recent spike in Polio cases
Dhriti Mukherjee
Pakistan’s power predicament: Soaring bills and public discontent
Ankit Singh
Pakistan’s Economy: Three questions
Sneha Surendran
From Cargo to Canvas: The vibrant world of Pakistani Truck Art
Anu Maria Joseph
Taiwan in Africa: The Last Ally and the Lost Allies
Feben Itty | CSIS
NATO’s Challenge
Genesy B | abcnews
Russia’s Endgame
Sreeja JS
Ukraine’s Strategies and Endgame
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #79 | Africa Climate Summit
Sneha Surendran
Africa Climate Summit: Rising new leadership in climate action
Nithyashree RB
Coup in Gabon: Three questions
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #78 | Coup in Gabon
Sneha Surendran
Wildfires in Europe: Another year of devastation
Rishika Yadav
Floods in Europe: Impacts, and issues
Padmashree Anandhan
Return of the Heatwaves
Jerry Franklin A
A profile on Ethiopia's Oromo ethnic group
Sneha Surendran
A profile on Ethiopia’s Somali ethnic group
Nithyashree RB
A profile on Ethiopia’s Afar ethnic group
Anu Maria Joseph
Ethiopia’s Amhara problem
Jerry Franklin A
ECOWAS and Niger remain at an impasse, causing a prolonged standoff
Lakshmi Parimala H
Mural, Movie and the Map: Akhand Bharat mural and Adipurush
Rishika Yadav
The High Seas Treaty
Indrani Talukdar
Ukraine War and the International Order
Jerry Franklin A
Coup in Niger: Manifold national, regional and international stances
Sneha Surendran
Senegal's political crisis: Four questions
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #73&74 | Coup in Niger and Senegal’s political crisis
Himani Pant
Germany-Russia Relations: What Next?
D. Suba Chandran
Que Sara Sara: Pakistan, Two Months After 09 May
Sneha Surendran
Pakistan’s e-Sport Industry: A Profile
Ramya Balasubramanian
Russia and Europe: Understanding Moscow’s strategies
Bibhu Prasad Routray
Return of Violence in Manipur
Nithyashree RB
The UN in Africa: MINUSMA has failed. So did Mali
Bibhu Prasad Routray
Myanmar continues to burn
Anu Maria Joseph
The Wagner Group in Africa: Fallouts of the failed revolt in Russia
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #69-71 | The Wagner Group in Africa
Lakshmi Parimala
Hybrid Warfare in Ukraine
Padmashree Anandhan
Rise and fall of the Wagner Revolt: Four Takeaways
Sneha Surendran
The Wagner Revolt: A profile of Yevgeny Prigozhin
Padmashree Anandhan
The War in Ukraine: Four Issues to watch in 2023
Rishika Yadav, Sneha Surendran, Sandra D Costa, Ryan Marcus, Prerana P and Nithyashree RB
Global Gender Gap Report 2023: Regional Takeaways
Harini Madhusudan, Rishika Yada, Sneha Surendran, Prerana P, Sreeja JS and Padmashree Anandhan
Russia: Anatomy of Wagner Revolt, and its Fallouts
Anu Maria Joseph
Resurging insurgency in Uganda and insecurity in East Africa
Jerry Franklin
Eritrea: Back to the IGAD after 16 years
Bibhu Prasad Routray
India: Violence continues in Manipur
Jerry Franklin
Tunisia: A Political Profile
Jerry Franklin
Cameroon’s Anglophone Crisis: Reasons for its continuation
Anu Maria Joseph
Ceasefires in Sudan: An uneasy trajectory
Rishika Yadav, Sreeja JS, Nithyashree RB, and Melvin George | Rishika Yadav is a Research Assistant in NIAS Europe Studies at NIAS. Nithyashree RB, Sreeja JS, and Melvin George are Research Interns in NIAS Europe Studies at NIAS.
The Battle for Bakhmut: Significance, Objectives, Course, and What Next
Nithyashree RB
Poland approves Russian Influence Law: Three Implications
Rishika Yadav | Research Assistant, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bangalore
Serbia: Mass shootings, protests and instability
Rishika Yadav and Nityashree RB | Research Assistant and Research Intern, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bangalore
Turkey’s Elections: Unravelling the Political Spectacle of 2023
Padmashree Anandhan | Research Associate National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore
Belgorod drone attacks: Who, What and Why?
NIAS Africa Team
In Focus | Japan in Africa
Devjyoti Saha
Japan in Africa: Renewed Efforts to Revitalise Relations
Indrani Talukdar
Russia's Position in the Arctic: New challenges
Lakshmi Parimala H
Bhutan's Gross National Happiness
Amit Gupta
The Trump Phenomenon: Why it Won’t Go
Rishika Yadav
Turkey’s Election: Issues, Actors and Outcomes
IPRI Team
The Armenia-Azerbaijan Stalemate
NIAS Africa Team
Droughts in East Africa: A climate disaster
NIAS Africa Team
Sudan: Intensifying political rivalry and expanding violence
NIAS Africa Team
Expanding Russia-South Africa relations
Padmashree Anandhan
Pentagon document leak: Russia-Ukraine Conflict From a Tactical Lens
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Tunisia: The question of undocumented migrants
Indrani Talukdar
Belarus’s endgame in Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Padmashree Anandhan
Russia: Drone attacks escalate the Ukraine war
Padmashree Anandhan
The UK: Conservative party put to test as worker strikes continue
Bhoomika Sesharaj
PR Explains: Pakistan’s power outage
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Pakistan’s Blue Helmets: A long-standing contribution
D Suba Chandran
Karachi: The race and new alignments for the Mayor
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Macron’s visit to Africa: Three Takeaways
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Nigeria elections: Ruling party wins; What is ahead?
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | M23 atrocities in DRC and upcoming Nigeria elections
NIAS Africa Team
Africa in 2023: Elections and conflicts
IPRI Team
The continuing crisis in Israel
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Chinese Foreign Minister's visit to Africa
IPRI Team
Protests in Spain, Sweden and Israel
Avishka Ashok
China: A complicated economic recovery
Padmashree Anandhan
Europe: An impending energy crisis and its economic fallouts
Ankit Singh
Defence: Towards a new cold war
Riya Itisha Ekka
Brazil: Managing Bolsonaro’s legacy
Apoorva Sudhakar
Africa: Despite the elections, democratic backslide will continue
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Pakistan in 2023: Between elections, economic turmoil and climate crisis
Sethuraman Nadarajan
Sri Lanka in 2023: A troubling economy and an unstable polity
Avishka Ashok
Chinese Foreign Minister's visit to Africa
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Bamako’s pardon of Ivorian soldiers
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | The relapse of ANC
Allen Joe Mathew, Sayani Rana, Joel Jacob
Newsmakers: From Putin to Rushdie
Sethuraman Nadarajan
Rest in Peace; Queen Elizabeth. Mikhail Gorbachev, Pelé...
Ankit Singh
Global economy in 2022: The year of cooling down
Bhoomika Sesharaj
Digital world: Elon Musk and the Twitter Chaos
Madhura Mahesh
The FTX Collapse: Depleting cryptocurrencies
Harini Madhusudan
The Space race: Scaling new technological feats
Avishka Ashok
G20: More challenges
Akriti Sharma
COP27: Hits and Misses
Padmashree Anandhan
The Ukraine War
Poulomi Mondal
French Exit from Mali: More questions than answers
Mohaimeen Khan
Yemen, Syria, and Sudan: Continuing humanitarian crises
Padmashree Anandhan
NATO and the Madrid Summit: Expanding defence frontiers
Padmashree Anandhan
Elections in France, Sweden, and Italy: The rise of the right
Janardhan G
North Korea: Missile Tests Galore
Avishka Ashok
The Taiwan Strait: Political and military assertions
Anu Maria Joseph
Ethiopia: Uncertainties despite ceasefire
Apoorva Sudhakar
Tunisia: The end of the Jasmine Revolution
Rashmi BR
Iraq: Deadlock and breakthrough
Kaviyadharshini A
Iran: Anti-government protests
Chrishari de Alwis Gunasekare
Sri Lanka: Political and Economic Crises
Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Myanmar: The coup and after
NIAS Africa Team
The US-Africa Leaders Summit
IPRI Team
Workers strike in the UK
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | End of Operation Barkhane
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | The ceasefire in Ethiopia
IPRI Team
Drone attacks in Russia
Vignesh Ram | Assistant Professor | Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal
Malaysia’s recent Elections: More questions than answers
Vignesh Ram
Anwar Ibrahim: Malaysia's new Prime Minister
Harini Madhusudan, Rishma Banerjee, Padmashree Anandhan, Ashwin Immanuel Dhanabalan, and Avishka Ashok
What next for Russia, Ukraine, Europe, South Asia & India, and China
Padmashree Anandhan and Rishma Banerjee
UNGA 77: Who said what from Europe?
Rashmi BR and Akriti Sharma
COP27: Ten key takeaways
Rashmi Ramesh
Ice Melt in Alps in Europe: Three impacts
Rishma Banerjee
Tracing Europe's droughts
Padmashree Anandhan
Major causes behind Europe’s continuing heatwaves
Emmanuel Selva Royan
100 days of the Ukraine war: US Responses in the war
Padmashree Anandhan
100 days of the Ukraine war: What next for Europe?
Ashwin Immanuel Dhanabalan
100 days of the Ukraine war: More loss than gain for Russia
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Challenges to peace in Eastern Congo
Avishka Ashok | Research Associate | National Institute of Advanced Studies
20th Party Congress of the Communist Party of China: Major takaways
Angelin Archana | Assistant Professor, Women’s Christian College, Chennai