Stories about International Relations from October, 2021
Singapore's new law against ‘foreign interference’ threatens to undermine free speech
"The solution should never be to simply give the government more and more and more broad discretionary powers that can be used against citizens ..."
Hong Kong stays firm on zero-COVID policy as its top strategy to reconnect with China
"So if Hong Kong were to loosen border controls for people arriving from overseas... then the chances to travel with the mainland will be reduced," says Hong Kong's Chief Executive.
Turkish President declares 10 diplomats persona non grata
President Erdogan's decision to expel the ambassadors comes following a statement issued on October 18, 2021 by the embassies of ten countries on the ongoing detention of philanthropist Osman Kavala.
The Uyghur issue, China’s greatest fear, is looming in Afghanistan
As the Taliban and China seem to strengthen their ties, the tragedy of the Uyghurs imprisoned in China's so-called re-education camps could prove to be a diplomatic stumbling block.
‘I wrote the book you all wish you had when you were 15,’ says Afroczech Obonete Ubam
Czech Nigerian activist and writer Obonete Ubam interviewed ten prominent Afroczechs in his latest book, to talk about discrimination, integration and role models for an emerging community in the Czech Republic.
Tensions are escalating between Azerbaijan and Iran over border issue and Armenia
For weeks, Iran and Azerbaijan have exchanged accusations, and played war games, in what can be best described as chest-thumping.
Between two borders: you can’t get through
By offering its territory as a transit zone, Belarus created a problem for the EU and a financial opportunity for itself, charging refugees for Belarusian visas.
Turkey and Armenia ready to ‘normalize relations’ after nearly 30 years
Almost three decades later, Turkey is now considering reopening its border with Armenia. The border has been closed since 1993.
Prince Charles calls on Australia's Prime Minister to attend Glasgow global climate change conference
After jibes from Britain, reports indicate that Prime Minister Morrison will likely attend COP26. However, government sources have apparently denied that the prince’s remarks may have influenced him.
Three graphics that explain Portuguese colonialism
From the occupation of territories to the colonial war, passing through the abolition of slavery, we dismantled some myths of Portuguese colonialism.
China's reputation challenged by perceptions of low-quality projects and products in Ethiopia
In contrast to the official praise, the Ethiopian public is often critical about the quality of these projects, as well as Chinese products sold in Ethiopia.
Ukraine’s trans-border transplant quandary
Going abroad for organ transplants is common in Ukraine, but the logistics are tricky. But a new law and enthusiastic regional doctors could make a national transplant system a reality.
‘Sindyanna of Galilee': Extending the olive branch between Arabs and Israelis
'We cannot wait for magical solutions. It doesn’t make sense that a Palestinian and an Israeli live side-by-side and only one is given an identity card and freedom of movement.'
Why are Czech elites being captured by Beijing narratives?
The ties between outgoing president Zeman as well as economic relationships over the past few years, especially in the media, raise concerns about the public narrative around Sino-Czech relations.
Pandora Papers: Sixteen Nepalis have illegally invested in offshore companies in overseas tax havens
The Pandora Papers, a global investigation by the ICIJ, has revealed how many Nepali business persons and companies have used tax havens to stash wealth to avoid taxes.
An interview with Myanmar's UN Ambassador who defied the junta
"We need international support to increase that momentum. We can end the suffering if the military faces domestic and international pressure."
Relations between Turkey and Russia: “It's complicated”
On September 29, the leaders of two countries met in Russian Black Sea city of Sochi to discuss economic and strategic deals and their presence in conflict zones.
Arabophone Chinese influencer divides public opinion in Egypt
Along with growing traffic to her social media platforms came a new tone in Wang's posts. What seemed as sincere patriotic pride, gave way to a seemingly targeted propaganda.
