International

Uganda's Ambitious 2025/26 Budget: A Catalyst for Economic ...

The influence of external debt on the Global South globally

The phenomenon of external debt has been a central topic in discussions about economic development, social welfare, and global financial stability, particularly concerning the Global South. This vast region, comprising countries in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and Oceania, has grappled with the complexities and consequences of relying on external borrowing from international creditors, private investors, and multilateral institutions.Beginnings and Development of International DebtExternal debt typically arises when governments or corporations in developing economies borrow from abroad to finance development projects, budget deficits, or to stabilize volatile economies. The origins of large-scale external indebtedness trace back to the post-colonial era when…
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Rainforest Mafias: How Violence and Impunity Fuel Deforestation in ...

Global tensions: how Latin America is responding

Global tensions have escalated over the past few years, as major global powers engage in geopolitical struggles, economic instability, shifting alliances, and technological rivalries that are transforming the international landscape. The United States, China, Russia, and the European Union are extending their influence through diverse tactics, ranging from financial restrictions to military actions. Challenges and opportunities are presented by issues such as the conflict in Ukraine, the trade competition between the US and China, the climate change crisis, and evolving energy markets for Latin America. Regional governments, businesses, and civil societies are adjusting by modifying foreign policies, exploring economic diversification,…
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Saudi Arabia and Pakistan sign mutual defense pact as Gulf Arab states grow wary of US security guarantees

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan ink defense pact as Gulf Arab states question US security role

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have formalized a mutual defense agreement, signaling a strategic shift in regional security as Gulf states reassess their reliance on American protection. This partnership underscores the changing dynamics in the Middle East and South Asia, with implications for military cooperation, diplomacy, and geopolitical balance.The agreement between the two nations arrives amid a backdrop of heightened regional tensions and evolving global alliances. Saudi Arabia, a key player in Gulf politics, has traditionally relied on the United States for security guarantees, particularly in the context of threats from Iran and other regional actors. However, recent uncertainties regarding US…
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Germany opened its doors to 1 million refugees a decade ago. Here’s how the country has changed since

How has Germany changed since accepting 1 million refugees a decade ago?

Hace una década, Alemania tomó una decisión sin precedentes que cambiaría su escenario social y político en los años siguientes. En 2015, en el apogeo de la crisis migratoria europea, el país acogió a cerca de un millón de refugiados, la mayoría huyendo de la guerra y la inestabilidad en Siria, Irak y Afganistán. Fue una acción que capturó la atención mundial, generando tanto elogios por su liderazgo humanitario como intensos debates sobre sus implicaciones a largo plazo.Today, a decade later, Germany stands as a case study for how large-scale migration can transform a nation. The decision brought profound shifts…
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Indonesia president makes concessions after days of deadly protests forced him to scrap China summit trip

Indonesia president agrees to reforms after protests force cancellation of China summit visit

In an unexpected development, Indonesia's President has made major policy changes after a wave of violent protests led to the cancellation of a scheduled diplomatic trip to China. The disturbances, which spread through various cities, underscored significant societal and economic discontent, pushing the government to reevaluate its domestic and international strategies. This situation highlights the fragile equilibrium Indonesia must maintain as it handles internal challenges while upholding its position internationally.The demonstrations commenced earlier this week and swiftly intensified into fierce confrontations between protesters and law enforcement. People gathered in the streets to voice their discontent regarding increasing living expenses, recent…
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Xi and Modi talk friendship in a ‘chaotic’ world as Trump’s tariffs bite

Xi and Modi pursue friendship in a ‘chaotic’ world amid Trump’s tariff pressures

In a world marked by economic turbulence and shifting alliances, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have highlighted the importance of bilateral friendship. Their recent discussions come at a time when global trade tensions, including tariffs imposed by the United States, are affecting markets worldwide and prompting countries to reassess strategic partnerships.The discussion between Xi and Modi highlights a mutual desire to uphold stability and foster collaboration between these two major Asian nations. The leaders stressed the importance of communication and mutual regard as crucial methods for managing a complicated international landscape. By projecting solidarity, they…
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Xi and Putin stand shoulder to shoulder as China casts itself an alternative global leader

Xi and Putin strengthen alliance as China emerges as an alternative world leader

The developing alliance between China's leader, Xi Jinping, and Russia's leader, Vladimir Putin, has captured the international community's focus. Their increasing accord indicates a desire to propose an alternative to the Western-dominated global system, with both heads stressing strategic collaboration amid rising geopolitical strains.This alliance has emerged in the context of increasing tension with the United States and its partners. China's emergence as a dominant economic and military force, along with Russia's ongoing opposition to Western strategies, has facilitated more extensive cooperation between these two countries. Their regular joint appearances and reciprocal backing in important global platforms highlight this mutual…
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France summons US ambassador over letter accusing government of not confronting antisemitism

US ambassador summoned by France regarding letter on government’s response to antisemitism

France has made an important decision by calling in the United States ambassador following a contentious letter that claimed the French authorities had not adequately tackled antisemitism. This diplomatic action highlights the delicate nature of the topic and its potential impact on Franco-American interactions, as well as the worldwide struggle against hate speech and bias.The letter, which has sparked considerable debate, reportedly criticized France’s efforts in tackling antisemitism, suggesting that the government’s response has been inadequate in the face of growing concerns. For French officials, this accusation was not only unexpected but also regarded as a direct challenge to the…
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‘A movement taking shape’: Many US retirees are looking to move abroad. Here are the best countries for them

Why more US retirees are moving abroad and where they should consider

Retirement is frequently seen as a new stage in life, offering people the opportunity to reconsider the ways and places they wish to use their time. A significant number of Americans are choosing to write this chapter miles away from their homeland. The increasing cost of living, personal lifestyle choices, and the allure of exploring new cultures are factors influencing many retirees to look beyond their borders for the perfect place to spend their retirement years.Although there are no definitive statistics detailing exactly how many Americans are making this move, organizations that help people relocate overseas report a sharp rise…
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Netanyahu orders ‘immediate negotiations’ to release hostages as Israel advances Gaza City operation

Netanyahu requests urgent negotiations to secure hostage release amid Gaza City military action

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed his government to initiate urgent negotiations aimed at securing the release of hostages, while military forces continue a large-scale operation in Gaza City. The decision comes as the conflict in the region intensifies, with ground troops advancing deeper into the city in an effort to dismantle militant strongholds.Government sources indicated that the negotiations are intended to accelerate ongoing diplomatic efforts, with the goal of reaching an agreement that would ensure the safe return of individuals held captive. While specific details of the talks remain undisclosed, officials have confirmed that multiple international actors are…
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