The World This Week

CWA # 954
The World This Week
G7 Summit in Japan, and China-Central Asia Summit in Xian

GP Team
21 May 2023
Photo Source: CNN

The World This Week #214, Vol. 5, No.18
21 May 2023

News from around the World
Regional Roundups


East and Southeast Asia This Week
Japan: G7 Summit in Hiroshima
On 19 May, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met with US President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, for the G7 summit. From 19 to 21 May, Japan is hosting the 49th G7 summit, to discuss geopolitical, economic, and climate issues amidst the Ukraine war and growing tensions with China. The summit takes place near the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a poignant reminder of the devastating atomic bomb attack in 1945. The key agenda items include supporting Ukraine with military aid and sanctions against Russia, formulating a strategy to deter China, addressing nuclear disarmament and promoting non-proliferation, regulating artificial intelligence, and discussing the risk of a US debt default. However, some allies are cautious about broad trade bans and favour a precise and targeted approach.

China: Central Asia Summit in Xian and Beijing's grand plan 
On 19 May, at China-Central Asia Summit, Xi Jinping announced a grand plan for developmental projects for infrastructure and trade with Central Asian countries which includes Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The region would provide China with an alternative route to transport fuel, food, and other commodities. Xi Jinping emphasized deepening strong trust between China and the Central Asian Countries. He said: “China is ready to help Central Asian countries improve their law enforcement, security, and defence capability construction." Furthermore urged for China’s economic cooperation with Central Asia through bilateral investment agreements, increased cross-border freight volume, financing support, and grants. It aims to enhance trade, energy cooperation, and transport infrastructure development in the region. As an initiative he said: “To bolster our cooperation and Central Asian development, China will provide Central Asian countries with a total of 26 billion yuan ($3.8 billion) of financing support and grants.”

Taiwan: International embassies reaffirm support for its participation in WHA
On 18 May, a joint statement was released by the de facto embassies in Taiwan representing the United States, Australia, Britain, Canada, Germany, Japan, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic. The statement reiterated their support for Taiwan's inclusion as an observer in the World Health Assembly (WHA). Taiwan remains hopeful about receiving an invitation to the World Health Organisation's annual assembly in Geneva, despite China's efforts to isolate the democratic island. Foreign Minister Joseph Wu stated: “Several diplomatic allies and friendly nations have expressed support for Taiwan's participation.” Taiwan believes its exclusion hampers global public health cooperation in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic. China has increased pressure on Taiwan, but the island's government rejects its claims, asserting the right of its people to determine their future.
 
Japan: Japan and China Initiate First Use of New Military Hotline
On 16 May, following lengthy negotiations to establish a communication channel, Japan and China employed a recently established military hotline for the first time, as confirmed by their respective defence ministries. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada engaged in a 20-minute conversation with his Chinese counterpart, Mr Li Shangfu, as reported by Tokyo's ministry. Discussions encompassed security concerns between the two nations, including the situation in the East China Sea, with Minister Hamada stressing the importance of open dialogue, particularly during strained Japan-China relations. Japan, cautious of China's increasing military capabilities, has publicly objected to Chinese vessel presence near disputed territories and regions like Okinawa.
 
South Korea: Olena Zelenska meets as special Presidential envoy
On 16 May, South Korea's presidential office announced that Olena Zelenska, the wife of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, met with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in her capacity as a special presidential envoy. During her meeting with President Yoon, she expressed her desire to receive support for Ukraine in the form of non-lethal military equipment like mine detectors, as conveyed by President Yoon's spokesman at a briefing. President Yoon assured that South Korea would actively assist the Ukrainian people. She also stressed the need for stronger support to counter Russia's aggression, cautioning against war fatigue. While South Korea has refrained from providing lethal weapons to Ukraine due to its relations with Russia, President Yoon previously indicated that the government might consider alternative forms of assistance in certain circumstances.
 
South Korea: Justin Trudeau's visit to South Korea
On 16 May, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau arrived in South Korea for a summit with President Yoon Suk-yeol, aimed at enhancing cooperation in security and critical minerals used in batteries. The leaders held a joint press conference and participated in an official dinner on 17 May. This visit, the first by a Canadian leader in nine years, commemorates the 60th anniversary of bilateral relations. They issued a joint statement outlining their partnership for the next 60 years, focusing on critical minerals, electric vehicle (EV) batteries, and intelligence sharing. Both countries are working to strengthen their mineral supply chains, promote clean energy conversion, and address energy security concerns. Additionally, Canada and South Korea aim to enhance security cooperation amid the escalating US-China rivalry.

Myanmar: UK provides GBP two Million aid
On 19 May, the UK allocated GBP two million in new humanitarian funding to assist vulnerable communities of Myanmar affected by Cyclone Mocha. This additional funding aims to provide clean water and shelter for up to 175,000 people. The cyclone has worsened an already dire humanitarian crisis in the country. The UK has redirected GBP 650,000 to provide emergency aid, and this new funding will address immediate needs and mitigate disease risks. The UK remains committed to supporting Myanmar and calls for an end to violence and unrestricted humanitarian access.

South Asia This Week
India: The vision of the Indo-Pacific is a reality in the 21st century, says the external affairs minister
On 12 May, attending the 6th Indian Ocean Conference in Dhaka, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar highlighted the growing reality of the Indo-Pacific. He stated that the materialization of the Indo-Pacific marks a transition from the framework of 1945. On his two-day visit to Dhaka, Mr Jaishankar held bilateral discussions with PM Hasina and his counterpart Dr AK Abdul Momen. Owing to the upcoming elections in Bangladesh, Mr Jaishankar’s visit stands significant, as there is a concern in Bangladesh regarding India’s support for PM Hasina. Speaking at the Indian Ocean Countries Conference (IOCC), Ms Hasina emphasized the need for ‘maritime diplomacy’ and promoting the ‘culture of peace’ in the IOR and sought international support in the repatriation of the Rohingyas.
 
India: Operation Karuna continues to be the first responder in the region
On 18 May, three Indian Navy ships arrived in Myanmar, being the first naval ships to arrive at Yangon with relief material. This was carried out as a part of ‘Operation Karuna’ launched by the Indian government to assist the cyclone-hit Myanmar. The three ships, INS Shivalik, INS Kanorta and INS Savitri have been deployed, carrying more than 40 tonnes of Humanitarian and Disaster Relief (HADR) material, including emergency food items, tents, portable generators, clothes, water pumps, medicines, tarpaulins, hygiene and sanitary items, wheelchair, face masks etc. Another ship, INS Gharial was deployed on 19 May which included emergency medicines and medical kits. Cyclone Mocha hit Bangladesh and Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and killing hundreds.

Pakistan: Opening new Border marketplace, Pakistan-Iran cooperation
On 18 May, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Seyed Ebrahim Raisi inaugurated a new marketplace called the Mand-Pishin border sustenance marketplace. They have also established the Polan-Gabd electricity transmission line. A statement by the Foreign Office said: “The Polan-Gabd electricity transmission line plays a pivotal role in meeting the energy needs of the region, including households and businesses, by bringing in additional 100 MW electricity from Iran.” The trade volume between the two countries is around USD 2 billion. The opening of the border will make it easier for goods and people to move between the two countries, boosting economic cooperation. Pakistan also highlighted the importance of opening new border markets and completing the long-delayed Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline for energy cooperation.

Middle East and Africa This Week
Ghana: IMF sanctions loan of USD 3 billion
On 18 May, Ghana signed a new bailout program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) worth USD 3 billion for a period of three years. Currently, the country's debt now accounts for 90 per cent of the total annual value of the economy, with an inflation rate of 40 per cent. Additionally, the country’s foreign reserves are almost blank which makes it difficult to pay for imports. The program has been expected to slow the rate of inflation and ensure a stable local currency which would result in steady prices of basic commodities including imported goods.

Morocco: Bilateral ties with Portugal
On 13 May, the 14th Portuguese-Moroccon meeting took place in Lisbon on 12 May. Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch and Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa discussed bilateral relations and signed agreements on cooperation, environment, education, and science. Prime Minister Costa emphasized the significance of the labour mobility agreement.

Israel: Palestine's President Abbas requests the cancellation of Israel’s UN membership
On 15 May, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas prompted the UN to revoke Israel's membership until it ceases its attack and complies with UN resolutions at the UN celebration of the flight of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians after Nakba (Catastrophe of 1948 for Palestinians). Abbas added that Nakba did not start in 1948 and it did not stop after that date. Further, Rosemary DiCarlo, the UN’s undersecretary-general for political affairs and peacebuilding, reiterated the UN’s “clear position” in wanting the end of Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. Despite that, Israel’s Foreign Minister iterated that they will fight the ‘Nakba’ lie with full strength and won’t allow the Palestinians to continue to spread lies and distort history.

Europe and the Americas This Week
Europe: EU adopts rules to minimize deforestation
On 16 May, the European Council adopted rules to reduce deforestation and forest degradation. According to the new rules, traders and operators are expected to follow diligence rules wherein they have to trace the origins of products such as palm oil, wood, coffee, cocoa, rubber and soy. Products that are produced after 31 December 2020 from land not subjected to deforestation are only allowed to be sold in the EU markets. Countries with a high risk of deforestation are expected to carry out checks on nine per cent of operators and traders. Standard-risk countries on three per cent and low-risk countries on one per cent of products. A penalty of four per cent of the annual turnover will be imposed on operators who fail to follow the new rules. They will be excluded from accessing the public funds and public procurement process.
 
Europe: African countries plan Russia-Ukraine peace process
On 16 May, South African President Cyril Ramphosa said that African heads of State will visit Moscow and Kyiv to propose their peace plan in a briefing. The meeting took place in Cape Town where Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong was also present. Zambia, Senegal, the Republic of Congo, Uganda, Egypt along with South Africa will be part of the mediation process. He added that he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 12 May and they both agreed to host the African leaders.
 
Europe: Council of Europe creates a register of damage for Ukraine
On 17 May, Council of Europe leaders announced the creation of the Register of Damage for Ukraine through an Enlarged Partial Agreement in its summit between 16 and 17 May in Reykjavik. European Union and 44 other countries have either joined or expressed their intention to join the Register until now. According to Icelandic Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir, this register is crucial to make Russia accountable for its war crimes in Ukrainian territory and a strong message of support to Ukraine. The Register is initially for three years to record damage, loss, and injury caused by the Russian aggression to serve as a record of evidence and claims for any future international compensatory mechanism for the victims of the war. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Council of Europe. He welcomed the Register of Damage and urged other countries to join. 
 
The US: Biden administration approves Virginia natural gas pipeline
On 19 May, the Biden administration approved the permit for constructing Equitrans USD 6.6 billion Midstream Corp's Mountain Valley natural gas pipeline in Virginia. The pipeline project pushed by Senator Joe Manchin’s bill aims at the fast-paced approval of fossil fuel and renewable energy. The permit allows the pipeline to run through the Jefferson National Forest, located in both Virginia and West Virginia and unlock gas supplies from Appalachia. Despite winning the support of Biden administration officials, environmental groups oppose the pipeline project.
 
The US: Anti-abortion groups file lawsuit against abortion pill
On 17 May, the panel of three judges at the US 5th Circuit Court of Appeals hammered the Food and Drug Administration and a pharmaceutical company during arguments over the abortion pill mifepristone. The case was filed by the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, a group of anti-abortion doctors seeking to remove mifepristone from the US market. The outcome of the hearing might determine whether women continue to have access to what has become the most prevalent type of abortion in the United States. The decision was expected to be made as the arguments concluded. Once a decision is made, it is likely to be appealed to the US Supreme Court.
 
The US: Republican states to suffer the most in the US debt ceiling battle
On 18 May, Reuters reported that Republican-leaning states like Louisiana stand to lose more than Democratic-leaning states under the spending cuts backed by House Republicans. A Republican US Representative, Clay Higgins has been a vocal advocate for spending cuts in Washington, while his constituents in Louisiana rely heavily on federal dollars. He said: "While devoting myself to restoring fiscal sanity in Congress, I am a practical man and I follow the rules of Congress as I serve my constituents,". He has been instrumental in securing disaster aid and funding for various projects in his district. He has voted against the 2021 infrastructure package but has secured USD 50 million for two local hospitals and USD 9 million to build a holding pen for the muck dredged up from the channel that connects the port to the Gulf of Mexico. However, some local leaders are reluctant to criticize him for his push for spending cuts in the face of so much need.
 
The US: Biden Administration USD 11 billion in funding to promote renewable energy in rural communities
On 18 May, US Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced a USD 11 billion investment to bring affordable clean energy to rural communities through two programs, announced by Tom Vilsack. He said: “Rural electric cooperatives, renewable energy companies, and electric utilities will be able to apply for funding”.The Empowering Rural America program and the Powering Affordable Clean Energy program will provide affordable clean energy to vulnerable, disadvantaged, and Indigenous communities, but there is tension between building a clean energy infrastructure and mining the materials needed for it. The ERA Program and Rural Energy for America Program could have a significant impact on rural America, with funding from the Inflation Reduction Act.
 
The US: Department of Justice targeting cryptocurrency exchanges
On 15 May, The Economic Times reported that The US Department of Justice (DOJ) is targeting crypto companies that engage in crimes themselves or allow crimes like money laundering to happen, according to Eun Young Choi, director of the National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET). The DOJ is targeting crypto companies that engage in crimes themselves or allow crimes like money laundering to happen.

Brazil: Safeguarding its poultry export industry from bird flu
On 15 May, an authorized lab by World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) in Latin America confirmed the detection of Avian flu (H5N1) in wild birds captured in the Brazilian state of Espirito Santo. The Brazilian government started preventive measures to protect the world’s largest poultry export industry from highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu. If the flu affects commercial flocks, about USD 10 billion in chicken exports will be jeopardized. Since the flu has only been found in wild birds and the state does not border any of the country’s main poultry-producing states, the officials believe it will not have any trade restrictions from importing countries and does not spark bans under WOAH guidelines. The Brazilian government increased testing capacity at its network of six federal laboratories by 19 times in 2023 and increased the entire budget of its Animal and Plant Health and Inspection Services by USD 42 million.

About the Authors
Femy Francis is a  Research Assistant at NIAS. Rishika Yadav, Jerry Franklin, Sreeja J S, Immaculine,  R B Nithyashree, Lakshmi Parimala, Taffy Tonia, Subkish S and Melvin George are Research Interns at NIAS.  


PREVIOUS COMMENTS

CW Note
August 2026 | CWA # 2239

Lekshmi MK

The War in Ukraine:
Continuing deep strikes, escalating civilian targeting, and expanding drone warfare
CW Newsmakers
August 2026 | CWA # 2236
CW Newsmakers
Sheikh Hasina, Settler Violence in West Bank, Heat Waves in Northeast Asia...
The World This Quarter
August 2026 | CWA # 2235

Adwaith Sankar

Southeast Asia (April-June 2026)
Economic headwinds, Internal friction, and Contrasting domestic developments
The World This Quarter
August 2026 | CWA # 2233

Teshu Singh

East Asia (Apr-Jun 2026):
Strategic Rebalancing, Neo-Militarisation and Increasing Tensions in Taiwan Straits
The World This Quarter
August 2026 | CWA # 2232

Dattesh D Parulekar 

Latin America (Apr-Jun 2026):
The 'Right' Electoral Tilt, Upswing in Venezuela-India relations, and Argentina's Energy Rise
Global Politics Explainer
August 2026 | CWA # 2231

Dhivya KM

China's economy at mid-2026:
Six Takeaways of the World Bank China Economic Update
Global Politics Explainer
August 2026 | CWA # 2225

Acsah H

China moves from near-total reliance on foreign jets to domestic dominance. How did it happen? And what does it mean?
The World This Week
August 2026 | CWA # 2224

Global Politics Team

Zelenskyy's US visit
Newsmakers of the week
TWTW Newsmakers
August 2026 | CWA # 2222

Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani and Urja R Kudalkar

Peru's new President Netanyahu's Washington visit
US Senate bill against Russia | Ukraine and Patriot missiles | China's PLA 99th anniversary
CW Newsmakers
July 2026 | CWA # 2217

Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani, Urja R Kudalkar

The Berlin Pride attack
Zelensky's US Visit I Japan's Earthquake
CW Profile
July 2026 | CWA # 2216

Manikranth Chakravarthula

The Houthis:
Origins, Ethnic makeup, Political structure, Geographical footprint and External support
CW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2213

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week 22:
End of pause, Return of hostilities and Expanding conflict geography
TWTW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2211

Priyanka Makhijani

AI's Rogue Agent Breach:
Recurring Patterns, Gaps in the AI safety rules and the AI rivalry
TWTW Takeaways
July 2026 | CWA # 2210

Adwaith Sankar

ASEAN Regional Forum:
Six Takeaways on Issues, Limitations and Opportunities
CW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2206

Akshath Kaimal

The resurgence of Somali piracy:
Sophisticated tactics, Regional instability and an Ineffective international response
CW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2203

Brighty Ann Sarah

US-Iran War, Week 21:
Resumption of attacks and the Strait of Hormuz impasse
CW Review
July 2026 | CWA # 2199

Preetha Renganarayanan

The SDG Annual Report 2026:
Six takeaways on a decade of SDG monitoring, global progress, and key challenges
CW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2197

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The US-Iran War, Week 20:
Renewed Strikes, Collapsed MoU and the Blockade of the Strait
The World This Quarter
July 2026 | CWA # 2196

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal (Apr-Jun 2026):
New Government, Political Stability and Economic Recovery
PR Commentary
June 2026 | CWA # 2193

Aparna A Nair

75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, CPEC expansion and Middle East mediation
TWTW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2186

Lekshmi MK

NATO Summit 2026:
Four takeaways on Alliance unity, Defence commitments, and Support for Ukraine
CW Column
July 2026 | CWA # 2182

Anu Maria Joseph

Africa This Week
JNIM-FLA coordinated attacks in Mali and the RSF siege in Sudan
CW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2181

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine:
Deep strikes, NATO diplomacy and the Expanding air warfare
CW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2180

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

Iran after Ali Khamenei
Institutional resilience, Anti-American sentiment and an Unresolved conflict
CW Note
July 2026 | CWA # 2172

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran negotiations:
Tenuous Ceasefire, Renewed Threats and the Contest over the Strait of Hormuz 
The World This Quarter
June 2026 | CWA # 2169

Anwesha Ghosh

Afghanistan (Apr-Jun 2026):
Growing External Engagement, Enduring Internal Constraints
The World This Quarter
June 2026 | CWA # 2168

Adarsh Vijay

High-Level Visits, Sideline Diplomacy and Upgrading Ties
The World This Quarter
June 2026 | CWA # 2166

Ramya B

Russia (April-June 2026)
Unsuccessful Offensive, Drone Attacks and Economic Challenges
The World This Quarter
June 2026 | CWA # 2165

Himani Pant

Europe (April-June 2026)
End of the Orban Era, Political Fragmentation, Tightening of Migration Rules and Continuing Economic Slowdown
CW Note
June 2026 | CWA # 2160

Radhika M Agarwal

The War in Ukraine:
Ukraine's Crimea Campaign, The Belarus Standoff, and Russia's Aerial Bombardment
CW Note
June 2026 | CWA # 2159

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The US-Iran MoU
Renewed strikes, Persistent disagreements, and a Fragile Agreement
The World This Week
June 2026 | CWA # 2157

Global Politics Team

The G7 Summit 2026
President Xi Jinping’s North Korea visit I Myanmar President’s China visit
TWTW Takeaways
June 2026 | CWA # 2154

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The G7 Summit 2026
Four Takeaways on Economic security, Critical minerals, and Consensus on Ukraine and Iran
Conflict Weekly
June 2026 | CWA # 2153

Global Politics Team

The US-Iran MoU
The War in Ukraine I Anti-immigrant violence in South Africa I Ultra Orthodox Jews' protests in Israel
CW Note
June 2026 | CWA # 2150

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The War in Ukraine:
Massive drone attacks, Europe's support for Ukraine, and a Distant ceasefire
CW Note
June 2026 | CWA # 2149

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran MoU:
Asymmetric Gains and Implementation Challenges
Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026
June 2026 | CWA # 2145

Glynnis Winona B

Myanmar and Press Freedom:
Four Takeaways on Legal repression, Institutional collapse, Violence, and Digital control 
Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026
June 2026 | CWA # 2144

Nithin V

Bangladesh and Press Freedom:
Four Takeaways on Digital security laws, Political polarisation, Journalist safety, and Media vulnerability 
Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026
June 2026 | CWA # 2143

Aishal Hab Yousuf 

Sri Lanka and Press Freedom:
Five Takeaways on Political influence, Legal mechanisms to control, Ethnic sensitivities and History of State intimidation
Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026
June 2026 | CWA # 2142

Glynnis Winona B

Bhutan and Press Freedom:
Four takeaways on Regulatory control, Economic fragility, and Social constraints
Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026
June 2026 | CWA # 2141

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Maldives and Press Freedom:
Four takeaways on the influence of democracy, legislation, and state funding
Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026
June 2026 | CWA # 2140

Nithin V

Pakistan and Press Freedom:
Four takeaways Military influence, cyber laws, political instability, and youth-driven digital journalism
Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026
June 2026 | CWA # 2139

Siddhi Halyur

Afghanistan and Press Freedom:
Four takeaways on political control, religious restrictions and economic vulnerabilities 
Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026
June 2026 | CWA # 2138

Siddhi Halyur

Nepal and Press Freedom:
Three takeaways on Political constraints, Missing legal protection and Funding issues
TWTW Explainer
June 2026 | CWA # 2136

Acsah H

The Blue Origin Rocket Explosion:
Does this leave Jeff Bezos grounded, Elon Musk unchallenged, and NASA’s lunar timeline in jeopardy?
CW Note
June 2026 | CWA # 2131

Rohini Reenum

Israel-Lebanon Tensions:
New Deal amidst Israeli incursion and Hezbollah’s retaliation
CW Explainer
June 2026 | CWA # 2130

Akshath Kaimal

The UK-Rwanda Asylum Deal: 
Why did the Permanent Court of Arbitration reject Rwanda’s claims? What was Rwanda’s complaint? Why did the UK cancel the deal?
CW Column
June 2026 | CWA # 2129

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa This Week:
The Ebola fear in DR Congo and the Elections in Ethiopia amidst conflicts
TWTW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2126

Aparna A Nair

The Shenzhou-23 Mission:
China's Space Missions, Technology, and Infrastructure
CW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2124

Glynnis Winona B

The Crisis in Cuba:
The US Sanctions, Energy Crisis, and Economic Instability
CW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2123

Akshath Kaimal

The Ebola and the DR Congo:
Multiple Outbreaks, Fragile Healthcare System, and Ineffective Global Responses
CW Column
May 2026 | CWA # 2122

Radhika M Agarwal

The War in Ukraine:
Ballistic missiles, Nuclear drills with Belarus, and the Czech ammunition initiative
CW Column
May 2026 | CWA # 2120

Brighty Ann Sarah

Conflicts in the Middle East
The US-Iran War Week Thirteen: Escalating Hostilities, Tenuous Ceasefire and Tense Negotiations
CW Column
May 2026 | CWA # 2119

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa
The Ebola spread in DR Congo, The Faye-Sonko split in Senegal, and the Deepening US military involvement in Nigeria
TWTW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2115

Aparna A Nair

The Putin-Xi Summit
Trade, Technology, Security, and Pipeline
Global Politics Explainer
May 2026 | CWA # 2114

Glynnis Winona B

What makes the UAE a global player?
Explaining the Governance, Economy, People, and Strategic Influence of a Small Middle Eastern State
Global Politics Explainer
May 2026 | CWA # 2113

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Sri Lanka and the US-Iran War:
Rising oil imports, Austerity measures and State capacity
The World This Week
May 2026 | CWA # 2111

NIAS Global Politics Team

The Trump-Xi Summit
The Africa Forward Summit 2026 I North Korea's Constitutional Amendment 2026
TWTW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2110

Aishal Hab Yousuf

The Trump-Xi Summit:
Managing Strategic Competition through Trade, Technology, and Diplomacy
Conflict Weekly
May 2026 | CWA # 2092

NIAS Global Politics Team

The US-Iran War, Week Ten
CW Column on Middle East: Escalating Israeli Aggression in Lebanon I UAE's Covert Manoeuvres
CW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2090

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Ten:
Fraying Ceasefire, Renewed Negotiations and the Risk of a Stalemate
The World This Week
May 2026 | CWA # 2089

Global Politics Team

King Charles's US Visit
TWTW Takeaways
May 2026 | CWA # 2088

Nithin V

Emphasis on strong bilateral relations, democratic values and security cooperation
TWTW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2087

Siddhi Halyur

Exploring Strategic Sectors of Cooperation
TWTW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2086

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Implications for the Middle East and the Energy Market
TWTW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2085

Glynnis Winona B

Growing US-Europe differences and Challenges for Berlin
CW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2083

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Nine:
Deadlocked Negotiations, Competing Agendas and Domestic Pressure
CW Note
May 2026 | CWA # 2082

Akshath Kaimal

Escalating Violence in Mali:
Between Ethnic Insurgencies, Jihadist Attacks, and Military Coups
The World This Week
April 2026 | CWA # 2080

Global Politics Team

Four Takeaways of the WFP's report on the fallouts of the Middle East crisis
TWTW Note
April 2026 | CWA # 2079

Aishal Hab Yousuf

From Post-War Pacifism to Strategic Recalibration and Autonomy
CW Note
April 2026 | CWA # 2074

Brighty Ann Sarah

Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire:
Asymmetric Terms, Fragile Truce and Israeli Occupation
CW Note
April 2026 | CWA # 2073

Akshath Kaimal

The US-Iran War, Week Eight:
A Fragile Ceasefire, Attempts to Control Hormuz and the Stalled Talks in Islamabad
Special Commentary
April 2026 | CWA # 2072

Anu Maria Joseph

Three Years of War in Sudan
Prolonged Stalemate, Humanitarian Cost, External Interventions and Regional Fallouts
Conflict Weekly Special Edition
April 2026 | CWA # 2070

NIAS Global Politics Team

The US-Iran War I Conflicts in Africa I The War in Ukraine I China-Japan Tensions I Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes
April 2026 | CWA # 2069

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine
Expanding Drone Warfare, Russia's Strategic Patience and Ukraine's Diplomatic Outreach
April 2026 | CWA # 2068

Femy Francis 

China-Japan Tensions
Escalating Defence Posturing and Economic Decoupling
April 2026 | CWA # 2067

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa
Continuing Conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan and DR Congo, Security issues in Nigeria, and Political Instability in Madagascar
April 2026 | CWA # 2065

Lakshmi Venugopal Menon

The US-Iran War, Israel-Hamas Conflict and their interconnected fallouts
April 2026 | CWA # 2064

Anwesha Ghosh

Gender Repression, Leadership Rifts, Regional Realignments and Clashes with Pakistan
April 2026 | CWA # 2063

Ramya B

Russia (Jan-Mar 2026)
Assertive Military Posture, Attempts for an Economic Turnaround and Search for Partners
April 2026 | CWA # 2062

Himani Pant

Europe (Jan-Mar 2026)
Trade diversification & FTAs, Increased defence spending, Tightening irregular migration and Economic slowdown
April 2026 | CWA # 2061

S Shaji

Africa (Jan-Mar 2026)
Elections, Civil Wars, Militancy and Peace Initiatives
The World This Quarter
April 2026 | CWA # 2059

Adarsh Vijay

April 2026 | CWA # 2058

Nishchal N Pandey  & Mahesh Raj Bhatta

Nepal (Jan-Mar 2026)
Political Upheaval, Generational Change and Economic Uncertainty
The World This Quarter
April 2026 | CWA # 2057

Bibhu Prasad Routray

Myanmar (Jan-Mar 2026)
An Illegitimate Regime's Consolidation Game
The World This Quarter
April 2026 | CWA # 2056

Ashik J Bonofer

Southeast Asia (Jan-Mar 2026)
Deteriorating situation in Myanmar, Philippines as the ASEAN Chair, New government in Thailand, and Economic & Environmental challenges
The World This Quarter
April 2026 | CWA # 2054

Amrita Jash

Regional assertion, Pragmatic recalibration with the West and Avoiding military entanglement in the Middle East
The World This Quarter
April 2026 | CWA # 2053

Anand V

The "Two Sessions," Recalibrated growth targets, Technology prioritization, and Military purges
The World This Quarter
April 2026 | CWA # 2052

Shreya Upadhyay

Conflict Weekly
April 2026 | CWA # 2050

IPRI Team

March 2026 | CWA # 2042

Preetha Renganarayanan

Five Takeaways of the US Annual Threat Assessment (ATA) Report for 2026
March 2026 | CWA # 2039

Femy Francis

Trump-Xi Meeting
Why did Trump reschedule it? What does that mean?
March 2026 | CWA # 2035

Akshath Kaimal

Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict
Broken ceasefire, Expanding military strikes and Worsening humanitarian situation
Global Politics Early Bird
March 2026 | CWA # 2033

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal after elections:
Five major challenges for the new government
March 2026 | CWA # 2023

Femy Francis

New Five-Year Plan, Ethnic Unity Law, and an Enhanced Defence Budget
March 2026 | CWA # 2019

Akshath Kaimal

Rising Violence in Nigeria
Limited State Capacity, Multiple Actors, and a Complex Security Environment
The World This Week
March 2026 | CWA # 2017

Global Politics Team

March 2026 | CWA # 2011

Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha

Resetting Economic, Strategic and Cultural Ties
March 2026 | CWA # 2009

Sreemaya Nair

Nepal Elections 2026
Rise of a new leadership and Reset in political landscape
March 2026 | CWA # 2004

Akshath Kaimal

Instability returns, with a fragile peace agreement, uptick in violence and limited international engagement
March 2026 | CWA # 2003

Yesasvi Koganti

From bilateral ties to a special strategic partnership
March 2026 | CWA # 2002

Femy Francis

Reducing trade deficit and recalibrating economic cooperation with Beijing
March 2026 | CWA # 2001

Preetha Renganarayanan

Six major takeaways on the economy, border and internal security and Iran
February 2026 | CWA # 1998

Anu Maria Joseph

Instability in Sudan
Response to the genocide call and the threats of a regional spillover
March 2026 | CWA # 1991

Global Politics Team

PR Commentary
February 2026 | CWA # 1986

Preetha Renganarayanan

Focus on Trade, Defense, Energy and Regional Connectivity
PR Commentary
February 2026 | CWA # 1985

Abhimanyu Solanki

Basant in Pakistan
The return of Basant, and what it signifies
February 2026 | CWA # 1977

Anu Maria Joseph

Violence in Nigeria
US military deployment amidst worsening insurgency
February 2026 | CWA # 1976

Lekshmi MK

The War in Ukraine
The Geneva Talks and Growing Negotiation Asymmetry
Pakistan in 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1971

Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi

Pakistan Budget 2025-26
Legislating stabilisation under IMF discipline and coalition constraints
Pakistan in 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1970

Aparna A Nair

Pakistan & China
Ten Years of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
PR Explainer
November 2025 | CWA # 1968

Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi

Pakistan and the US
A New opening, or another cycle?
PR Explainer
November 2025 | CWA # 1967

R Preetha

Risks, Reforms and Trajectories
November 2025 | CWA # 1966

Lekshmi MK

Five Questions on Challenges, Capacity and Policies
The World This Week
February 2026 | CWA # 1962

Global Politics Team

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas
Early Bird
February 2026 | CWA # 1961

Lekshmi MK

What does it mean for domestic politics and regional stability?
The World This Week
February 2026 | CWA # 1955

Global Politics Team

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas
TWTW Note
January 2026 | CWA # 1947

Brighty Ann Sarah

TWTW Note
January 2026 | CWA # 1946

Preetha Renganarayanan

The Davos Summit 2026
Five Major Takeaways from The World Economic Forum
The World This Week
January 2026 | CWA # 1945

Global Politics Team

Conflict Weekly Note
January 2026 | CWA # 1943

Anu Maria Joseph

CW Note
January 2026 | CWA # 1942

Lekshmi MK

CW Note
January 2026 | CWA # 1941

Brighty Ann Sarah

Conflict Weekly
January 2026 | CWA # 1940

IPRI Team

TWTW Note
January 2026 | CWA # 1939

Lekshmi MK

CW Note
January 2026 | CWA # 1937

Anu Maria Joseph

State of Global Politics 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1931

Padmashree Anandhan

NATO Summit 2025
State of Global Politics 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1930

Aparna A Nair

State of Global Politics 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1924

Padmashree Anandhan

NATO Summit 2025
State of Global Politics 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1914

Preetha Renganarayanan

State of Global Politics 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1913

Rohini Reenum

State of Global Politics 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1912

Lekshmi MK

State of Global Politics 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1911

Swati Sood

State of Global Politics 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1905

Femy Francis

State of Peace and Conflict 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1902

Brighty Ann Sarah

State of Peace and Conflict 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1893

Lekshmi MK

State of Peace and Conflict 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1889

Femy Francis

State of Peace and Conflict 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1881

Sunidhi Sampige

China Reader
December 2025 | CWA # 1864

Femy Francis

Ten Takeaways of a SCMP Interview with a former PLA Colonel
TWTW Note
December 2025 | CWA # 1861

Femy Francis

China Reader
CW Column: The Conflicts in The Middle East
November 2025 | CWA # 1859

Brighty Ann Sarah

CW Column: The War in Ukraine
November 2025 | CWA # 1858

Padmashree Anandhan

This Week in History
August 2025 | CWA # 1801

R Preetha

28 August 1963
Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech and the Civil Rights Movement in the US
The World This Week
August 2025 | CWA # 1790

GP Team

The World This Week#323-324
The Trump-Putin meeting & the US-China tariff extension
TWTW note
August 2025 | CWA # 1780

Abhiruchi Chowdhury

Trump tariffs:
Weaponization of access to the US economy
The World This Week
August 2025 | CWA # 1779

GP Team

The World This Week#322
US tariffs on India, Brazil and Canada & the EU-US trade deal
This Week in History
August 2025 | CWA # 1778

Lekshmi MK

28 July 1914
Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia, starting the First World War
Global Politics Explainer
July 2025 | CWA # 1770

Abhiruchi Chowdhury

Pakistan-Afghanistan relations:
Why the focus on terrorism, refugees, and Uzbekistan as the third partner?
The World This Week
July 2025 | CWA # 1769

GP Team

The World This Week#321
Indian PM Modi's visit to the Maldives I Elections to the Upper House in Japan
Global Politics Explainer
July 2025 | CWA # 1762

Lekshmi MK

Ocean Darkening: 
What is the phenomenon? What are its effects? And who are more vulnerable?
Global Politics Explainer
July 2025 | CWA # 1749

R Preetha

Africa as the Hunger Epicenter
Of the 13 Global Hunger Hotspots, 8 are in Africa: Five reasons why
The World This Week
July 2025 | CWA # 1748

GP Team

The World This Week #318
PM Modi’s Visit to Trinidad and Tobago & Ghana, One big beautiful bill, and Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting
Global Politics Explainer
July 2025 | CWA # 1744

Chittrothu Vaihali

EU-Canada Summit 2025
What is security and defence partnership all about?
Conflict Weekly
July 2025 | CWA # 1742

IPRI Team

Conflict Weekly # 287-88
The 12 Day War and the Congo-Rwanda Peace Deal
Global Politics Explainer
July 2025 | CWA # 1738

Fleur Elizabeth Philip

Thailand and Cambodia
What was the phone call between PM Shinawatra and President of Senate Hun Sen? What is the border dispute between the two? Why has this become an issue?
TWTW Note
June 2025 | CWA # 1735

Padmashree Anandhan

NATO Summit 2025:
Trump making Europe great again
The World This Week
June 2025 | CWA # 1734

GP Team

The World This Week #317
NATO Summit 2025 and Russia-Mali bilateral agreements
Global Politics Explainer
June 2025 | CWA # 1733

Ananya Dinesh

China and the Pacific Islands 
What was the recent China-PIC joint statement about? What it says, and what it means?
TWTW Note
June 2025 | CWA # 1728

M Kejia

G7 Summit 2025:
The Focus on the Middle East and Trade negotiations
The World This Week
June 2025 | CWA # 1726

GP Team

The World This Week #316
China-Central Asia Summit in Kazakhstan, and the G7 Summit in Canada
Global Politics Explainer
June 2025 | CWA # 1725

Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Aparna A Nair & M Kejia

Operation Midnight Hammer: US bombs three nuclear sites in Iran
What were the three Iranian nuclear sites that were targeted? What are the B2 Bombers and Bunker Buster Bombs? What do these attacks mean? What Next?
Conflict Weekly
June 2025 | CWA # 1724

IPRI Team

Conflict Weekly #286
The Spiralling Israel-Iran Crisis, and the Dangerous Hunger Hotspots
Global Politics Explainer
June 2025 | CWA # 1721

Rizwana Banu S and Santhiya M

Who are the Afrikaners?
Why is Trump interested in the Afrikaner question in South Africa?
Global Politics Explainer
June 2025 | CWA # 1720

Lekshmi MK

New WMO Report on Arctic Warming
What are the social, economic and environmental implications of Arctic warming
Global Politics Explainer
June 2025 | CWA # 1719

J Yamini  

China’s EV Surge
What contributes to the rise of BYD
Global Politics Explainer
June 2025 | CWA # 1717

J Yamini

Gender Violence in Pakistan:
What are the larger issues in the Noor Mukadam case?
TWTW Note
June 2025 | CWA # 1715

Femy Francis

The US-China:
On Tariffs, Rare Earths and Visas
The World This Week
June 2025 | CWA # 1713

GP Team

The World This Week #315
The UN Ocean Conference in France and the US-China Meeting in London
CW Note
June 2025 | CWA # 1712

R Preetha

The World This Week
June 2025 | CWA # 1705

GP Team

The World This Week #314
Elections in South Korea and Poland I China and the Pacific Island Countries I Bangladesh Election Announcement 2026
Global Politics Explainer
June 2025 | CWA # 1703

M Kejia 

Sagarmatha Sambaad in Nepal
Kathmandu’s Global Agenda for the Himalayas
Global Politics Explainer
June 2025 | CWA # 1700

R Preetha

Ethiopia bans the TPLF
What does the TPLF ban mean for the Pretoria agreement? What next for Ethiopia?
TWTW Note
June 2025 | CWA # 1694

Aashish Ganeshan

The US:
Harvard vs Trump Administration
The World This Week
June 2025 | CWA # 1691

GP Team

The World This Week #313
China-ASEAN-GCC Summit I President Macron's visit to South East Asia I Trump Vs Harvard
The World This Week
May 2025 | CWA # 1690

GP Team

The World This Week #312
Elections in Romania, Portugal & Poland I UK-EU Summit
CW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1689

Padmashree Anandhan

Ukraine
Continuing Russia’s Aerial Attacks, despite exchange of prisoners
CW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1688

Ayan Datta

Gaza
The Humanitarian Crisis and Israel’s Renewed Offensive
TWTW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1685

Aparna A Nair

UK-EU Summit:
First step towards a reset
TWTW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1683

Aashish Ganeshan

Elections in Portugal:
The Rise of Chega Party and the Search for Political Stability
TWTW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1679

Aashish Ganeshan

US in the Middle Easr
Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE
TWTW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1678

Gauri Gupta

China in Latin America
China-CELAC forum: Strengthening ties with Latin America and Caribbean
The World This Week
May 2025 | CWA # 1677

GP Team

The World This Week #310-311
China in Latin America and the Carribbean I Trump's Middle East Visit I Denmark as the new Arctic Chair
CW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1675

Lekshmi MK

Turkey:
PKK disbands after 40 years of armed insurgency
CW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1673

Padmashree Anandhan

Ukraine:
The Discussion in Turkiye and the Elusive Ceasefire
CW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1671

Abhiruchi Chowdhury

US, Ukraine and Russia:
Air attacks amidst a Minerals deal and Ceasefire Proposals
Global Politics Early Bird
May 2025 | CWA # 1670

Fleur Elizabeth Philip

Singapore Elections in 2025:
People’s Action Party (PAP) Wins, Again
TWTW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1667

R Preetha and Brighty Ann Sarah

East Asia:
Tough Tariff Negotiations with the US
TWTW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1666

Padmashree Anandhan

The US-Ukraine
The mineral deal with the US
Conflict Weekly
May 2025 | CWA # 1665
Conflict Weekly # 280-81
India-Pakistan De-escalation I Ukraine Discussion in Istanbul I The Battle over Port Sudan I Disbanding of PKK in Turkiye I France-Algeria Diplomatic Tensions
Global Politics Early Bird
May 2025 | CWA # 1663

R Preetha

Canada Elections 2025:
What do the results convey? What next for Mark Carney?
Conflict Weekly 250th Issue
October 2024 | CWA # 1480

IPRI Team

This Week in History
July 2024 | CWA # 1413

Ramya B

Global Politics Early Bird
May 2024 | CWA # 1336

Femy Francis

This Week in History
April 2024 | CWA # 1275

Ramya B

NIAS Global Politics Database
March 2024 | CWA # 1251

NIAS Africa Team

Africa This Week
This Week in History
March 2024 | CWA # 1246

Sivasubramanian K

NIAS Global Politics Database
February 2024 | CWA # 1226

NIAS Africa Team

Africa This Week
The World This Week
November 2023 | CWA # 1148

GP Team

The War in Ukraine
October 2023 | CWA # 1091

Annem Naga Bindhu Madhuri

Issues for Europe
NIAS Pakistan Weekly
October 2023 | CWA # 1087

PR Team

The World This Week
October 2023 | CWA # 1083

GP Team

Conflict Weekly
August 2023 | CWA # 1049

IPRI Team

IPRI Quarterly Forecasts I Triggers, Trends, and Trajectories
July 2023 | CWA # 1012

Bibhu Prasad Routray

Myanmar continues to burn
The World This Week
July 2023 | CWA # 1009

GP Team

2022: The World This Year
December 2022 | CWA # 879

Padmashree Anandhan

The Ukraine War
2022: The World This Year
December 2022 | CWA # 872

Sapna Elsa Abraham

Europe: Heatwaves, Wildfires, Droughts, and Ice Melt in Alps
November 2022 | CWA # 838

Rishma Banerjee

Tracing Europe's droughts
NIAS Africa Weekly
March 2022 | CWA # 705

NIAS Africa Team

In Focus: Libya
The World This Week: 150th Issue
December 2021 | CWA # 630

GP Team

Europe in 2021
Pakistan Reader
October 2021 | CWA # 588

Abigail Miriam Fernandez

TLP is back again
NIAS Fortnightly on Science, Technology & International Relations
August 2021 | CWA # 528

STIR Team

Space Tourism
GLOBAL PROTEST MOVEMENTS
September 2020 | CWA # 337

Anju Annie Mammen

The FATF Meeting, February 2020
February 2020 | CWA # 235

Lakshmi V Menon

Science, Technology and International Relations
September 2019 | CWA # 162

Lakshman Chakravarthy N

5G: A Primer
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 71

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 70

Nasima Khatoon

The Maldives
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 69

Harini Madhusudan

India
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 68

Sourina Bej

Bangladesh
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 67

Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer

Afghanistan
United States
July 2018 | CWA # 47

Rahul Arockiaraj

East Asia
June 2018 | CWA # 26

Siddhatti Mehta