The New Normal/La Nouvelle Normalité/新常態: Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Absence from G20 Summit Raises Questions About U.S.-China Relations

The recently concluded 18th G20 summit made headlines not only for its global economic discussions but also for the conspicuous …

Unpacking Haiti’s Crisis: UN Military Mission Dilemma

In October 2022, Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry urgently requested international military assistance to address a security crisis exacerbated by blockades imposed by criminal gangs. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres supported the need for a specialized armed force to assist the Haitian National Police. However, concerns related to previous foreign interventions and strong opposition from some Haitians, rooted in historical distrust, have complicated efforts. Emphasis is placed on the importance of a culturally sensitive solution through diplomacy and dialogue to address Haiti’s challenges.

Let’s Tune In To The EU’s periphery: Lampedusa Becomes Ground Zero In Migrant Crisis

Italy is once again being overwhelmed with migrants trying to reach Europe. The EU promises help yet time will tell if this will be the case.

(Analysis) Croatia, The Long Journey To Eurozone And Schengen Area

It has taken 9.5 years to become part of the Eurozone and Schengen Area. This is due to the strict entry requirements that govern these agreements.

Bolivia’s Thriving Lithium Sector Bolsters BRICS Membership Aspirations

An article looking at Bolivia’s push for BRICS membership, owing to developments in the country’s lithium sector, which is expected to see a huge boost in production numbers.

Security Watch – BRICS: symptom of an emerging multipolar world ?

The BRICS – a loose association of developing nations – have been the focus of global attention in recent weeks, for the 15th BRICS Leaders’ Summit. While the goal is to establish a more multipolar economic order, the existing geostrategic differences between India and China risk hampering the organisation’s ability to reach its full potential over the medium and long term.

Spain: the brothel of Europe to close its doors

Paid sex in Spain has remained in a legal limbo until the recent proposal of the Comprehensive Law Against Trafficking, proposed by the governing Socialist Party of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. In 1995, prostitution was depanelized as a voluntary activity, leading to an unregulated and very successful establishment of the sex industry since then. In fact, not only is Spain the European country with the highest demand for sex, but is also third internationally. This lack of jurisdictional model has been criticised by different actors for its lack of a comprehensive approach towards sex workers and the facility it offers to mafias to coerce and exploit victims into the industry.

Democratic Backsliding and Self-Centered Foreign Policy: Hungary-EU Relations in Perils

The rise of Viktor Orbán’s right-wing populist party, Fidesz, in Hungary in 2010 has led to tension and conflict between Hungary and the EU. The Hungarian government’s numerous legislative acts undermine democracy, human rights, and the freedoms of its citizens, posing a pressing issue for both Hungarian citizens and the EU. The EU faces obstacles in holding Hungary accountable for its actions, but prolonged inaction could lead to increasingly severe consequences.