Stay informed on global affairs with a deep dive into recent international relations news, from the workings of the UN Security Council to key developments in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Understanding the UN Security Council
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) plays a crucial role in maintaining international peace and security. It comprises 15 member states, and each member holds one vote on resolutions.
The presidency of the Security Council rotates monthly among its members. This rotation follows the English alphabetical order of their names, with each President serving for one calendar month.
Spotlight on Niger
Niger, a West African nation, gained independence from French colonial rule in 1960. For much of its post-independence history, the country has experienced political instability, including single-party rule and military coups.
Its capital city is Niamey, and it is an integral part of the Sahel region. Recent news involved an attack on Indian migrant workers in the country, highlighting security concerns.
Iran and Afghan Refugees
Iran has been a significant host to Afghan refugees for over 40 years, with a notable increase in arrivals after the Taliban regained power in 2021. Provinces like Sistan and Baluchestan, Khorasan, and Yazd are among the regions in Iran that have seen large communities of Afghan refugees establish themselves, particularly in low-income areas.
The Darfur Region in Sudan
The Darfur region, a vast area in Western Sudan, has frequently been in the news due to ongoing conflict. It lies within Sudan, a country currently grappling with a two-year-old civil war.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) control much of Darfur, while the Sudanese army has been pushing back in other areas, including the capital Khartoum.
Wildfires in Athens
Recently, residents in northern suburbs of Athens, the capital city of Greece, faced evacuation orders due to raging wildfires. High temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds fueled the blazes, necessitating urgent action from the fire services.
Vietnam’s ‘Bamboo Diplomacy’
The term ‘bamboo diplomacy’ is closely associated with Vietnam’s foreign policy. This flexible approach, championed by the late leader Nguyen Phu Trong, emphasizes building “more friends, fewer foes.”
It allows Vietnam to navigate complex international relations, balancing ties with major powers like China and the United States, showcasing a resilient and adaptable stance in global affairs.
Insights into BRICS and the UAE Golden Visa
The BRICS grouping, now comprising 10 members including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Indonesia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, is actively shaping global economic dialogue. The New Development Bank (NDB), established by BRICS, provides funding not only to its member countries but also to non-BRICS nations. BRICS is also developing ‘BRICS Pay,’ a payment system aimed at reducing reliance on Western-dominated financial networks.
The UAE Golden Visa scheme for 2025 is a nomination-only program. It requires applicants to be put forward by authorized partners. This pilot scheme is currently open exclusively to Indian and Bangladeshi nationals and involves rigorous vetting processes, including anti-money laundering and criminal background checks, rather than being a simple one-time fee for lifetime residency without investment.
- The UNSC has 15 members, with the presidency rotating monthly.
- Niger’s capital is Niamey, and it gained independence in 1960.
- Darfur is a significant region within Sudan.
- ‘Bamboo diplomacy’ describes Vietnam’s flexible foreign policy approach.
- The BRICS New Development Bank funds both member and non-member nations.
- The UAE Golden Visa is a nomination-based scheme, not a direct purchase for lifetime residency.
Understanding these crucial elements of international relations helps in grasping the complex interplay of global politics and economic dynamics.
