The Democratic Republic of Congo’s fragile path to peace

In July 2024, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda agreed to a ceasefire. This fragile step toward peace underscored the need for a sustainable resolution after decades of conflict, as the humanitarian situation continues to worsen. But does peace have a chance to succeed?

Diplomacy at the State Level: How California’s Governor Gavin Newsom Shapes Foreign Policy

U.S. state governors are increasingly stepping onto the international stage, asserting themselves as key players in economic diplomacy and global policy. Traditionally confined to domestic issues, these leaders are now forging trade agreements, leading diplomatic missions, and building partnerships that directly shape international relations. Among them, California Governor Gavin Newsom.

(Analysis) North Korea’s Troop Deployment To Russia-Ukraine War: Stategic Gamble?

North Korea’s reported deployment of troops to support Russia in the Ukraine war marks a significant shift in its global posture. What does this reveal about Pyongyang’s intentions, and how should the international community respond?

Brazil and Mexico eye new trade relationship amid friendshoring pressures and an uncertain Mercosur

Pressured by friendshoring trends and by a faltering Mercosul, Brazil and Mexico see window of opportunity to establish new and revise existing trade agreements. Under the shadow of a new Trump presidency, Latin America trade might see new life with Brazil – Mexico relationship.

Xi Jinping’s Visit Highlights Brazil’s Cautious Balancing Act

As Xi Jinping’s November visit to Brazil wrapped up, high-level talks between the two Global South giants expanded on a wide set of agreements. However, Xi’s visit also highlights a delicate and nuanced balancing game played by Brazil, fueled by domestic political struggles and the expectation of a second Trump tenure.

(Analysis) Watch Out – The Looming Arms Race in the Arctic

On July 24, 2024, a Sino-Russo bomber formation was patrolled in the Arctic Circle near Alaska’s Air Defense Identification Zone for the first time. While some might interpret the event as a move by the great powers to establish the Arctic’s military presence to contest future access to the Northern Sea Route and regional undersea resources amid climate change, the joint exercises reveal deeper security motivations. The findings show that the event is largely attributed to the intensifying military confrontations between global powers in other parts of the globe while also raising the risk of an arms race in the Arctic region. Future security studies warrant examining how great power struggles in non-Arctic regions might affect their military moves in the Arctic.

[Analysis] Rolling the Dice on the Development Road: Will Iraq and Türkiye Hit the Jackpot?

The Development Road aims to establish a trade route from Europe to Asia through Iraqi and Turkish infrastructure. It promises to boost the economies of both countries, enhance their geopolitical standing, and support key domestic objectives. However, obstacles to its success lie ahead.

(ARTICLE) EU – Israel Relations: Between Strong Ties and Strategic Ambiguity

The EU needs to develop a common position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and speak with one voice on the topic. The endorsement of a two-state solution is an empty shell if it is not accompanied by coherent policies. Europe has moved from efforts to build a Palestinian state to attempts at managing an ever-worsening “status quo” to which it clings mainly because it sees no alternative.

Fold or Call: Is the Philippines’ POGO Problem a National Security Threat?

Philippine Offshore Gambling Operators (POGO) have shaken the Philippines’ perception of its internal security amid allegations of linked violent crimes and espionage. For several months the ongoing situation created more questions than any of the country’s officials can answer. Such issues have led to calls to raise it as a national security threat. However, security agencies refuse to do so despite the issue’s overwhelming severity.