Securing Tomorrow: The BND and German Foreign Intelligence

The Bundesnachrichtendienst (BND) is Germany’s foreign intelligence service, which is seen as a transparent tool of the German republican democracy. Recently, it has faced criticism for a series of counterintelligence debacles and public debate has emerged about its effectiveness as an intelligence service. This article examines the BND’s tasks, structure, and fundamental differences compared to conventional intelligence services. 

The Golden Triangle’s City Built on Dirty Money

For decades, the Golden Triangle, a region wedged between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos along the Mekong River, has been synonymous with opium production, organised crime, and rebel militias. In recent years, in the northern part of Laos, the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has come under the control of Chinese casino mogul Zhao Wei, since his Hong Kong registered company, Kings Romans, leased the land for 99 years.

A Crossing of Two Hands? The European Youth and The EU Bubble

Paulina Ríos Maya and Liz Morán explore the dynamic and sometimes fraught relationship between the European youth and the EU Bubble, examining how this relationship shapes the future of the European project.

Post – Security Law: The Dawn of Hong Kong Financial Hub?

Will Hong Kong retain its status as an international financial hub following the passing of the national security law? This article examines China’s economic goals, recent geopolitical shifts, and initiatives like the Belt and Road and Greater Bay Area, while assessing Hong Kong’s unique financial strengths and future.

(Article) Elections to the Catalan Parliament: Life beyond independence

In the Catalan elections last May, voters opened a new window on their political reality: new parties, new priorities and, above all, a lot of uncertainty. Who will be the next President of the Generalitat?

EU Elections: Political divide with EU Farmers and Green Deal

European farmers across multiple countries are protesting the European Green Deal policies, citing issues with low food prices, carbon taxes, pesticide bans, and trade practices. Starting with France in 2023, the protests involve ideological divides on climate policy, national sovereignty, and urban versus rural interests. Future strategies include inclusive policy development, economic support, and education.

In the Spotlight: Diasporas and Political Mobilization

Since the 1980s, we have observed an explosive increase in the number of countries that have extended the right to vote from abroad. As a result, today diasporas play a more prominent role in politics than in the past.

This interview aims to shed light on diasporas and political mobilisation thanks to the insights of Professor Eva Østergaard-Nielsen.