The Elusive Afghan Peace Process
The US was never really in control of Afghanistan. Trillions of dollars spent, over a 100,000 casualties, & two decades later – the US is now stuck in a stalemate. Negotiating directly with the Taliban via Khalilzad seemed to be helping the US, but the recent change of date for the withdrawal of troops (from May 01 to Sep 11) can potentially hamper the peace process.
Diplomacy of Pakistan: Right Choices, Wrong Management
Pakistan’s past choices — the creation of Pakistan itself; the decision to join the American bloc; the decision to wage the war on terror; and choosing China as an ally — have defined its present status. Although these choices have been deemed appropriate, the mismanagement resulted in an economic downturn and an impairment of its diplomatic ability.
Pakistan and Russian Relations: A New Dawn
Although Pak-Russia relations have been marked by distrust and suspicion in the past, ties between the two states seem to be positively changing due to diplomatic visits and joint exercises. The recent visit of the Russian Foreign Minister to Pakistan and the mutual stance on the Afghan peace process have emboldened ties between the two nations. These bilateral relations have enormous potential in the areas of defence, mining, energy, tourism, among others.
The World Systems Theory and Covid-19
The implications of the world systems theory, proposed by Immanuel Wallerstein, can be seen in the influence of the coronavirus on the economy of each state affected by the virus. The author asserts that while the virus has heavily impacted the rich core states, they are still better off as compared to the developing and underdeveloped states. She explains that the pandemic has made the North-South divide even more apparent; it has made it clear that the world cannot have a unified economy.
The US in the Afghan Peace Process: A Farewell Letter?
The long-awaited Afghan peace process seems to be evident from the Biden administration’s letter to President Ghani. The letter has communicated the Biden administration’s desire to end the war in Afghanistan. However, it will certainly prove to be a challenge for the parties to commit themselves to a peace deal that is already tenuous.
Peacekeeping Missions of UN: History and Current Challenges
The peacekeeping missions of United Nations have considerably evolved since 1948. With each generation of peacekeeping, new challenges have emerged. The author notes that while the UN has reformed peacekeeping by a large extent in the third generation, the operations face threats in the form of terrorism, weak political will, funding, weapons proliferation, and sexual and physical abuse.
The US Withdrawal from Afghanistan: An Imperative Task
After two decades of war in Afghanistan, the time has finally come for the US to withdraw its forces. While the Doha Agreement paved the way for the US to extricate itself, its implementation will be based on the US interests defined by the Biden administration. Regardless of that, it is necessary for the US to withdraw its forces so that the war-torn state can learn to rely on itself.
Domestic Violence is Domestic Terrorism
Domestic violence consists of all the facets of terrorism. Hence, referring to it as “abuse” or “violence” undermines the severity of the terroristic acts. The author explains that the term “domestic terrorism” is well suited for these horrendous acts. She uses Pakistan as a case study, at the end, to highlight how the societal structure reinforces domestic terrorism.
China and Iran’s Relations: New Allies on the Block
The new strategic partnership between China and Iran will not only enhance Sino-Iran relations but also transform the geopolitical structure of Asia. This partnership will seek to develop Iran’s economy and infrastructure; it will also enable China to buy oil from Iran at discounted prices. India and the United States, however, view this blossoming relationship negatively.
The Untimely Deaths of Iranian Nuclear Scientists
Assassinations in the nuclear field of Iran have revealed the vulnerability in the state’s national security. It has also exposed that the enemy might be closer than the Islamic Republic perceives.
Incensed Russia Protests with Navalny
The events of last year, along with Navalny’s trial, have left the Kremlin in a tight spot. The only options it has now, come with repercussions, creating a dilemma.
World Interfaith Harmony Week: Celebrating Differences
Religious, ethnic, and cultural intolerance has become a common occurrence. Each passing year sees a greater need for interfaith harmony and tolerance.
Uighur Muslims in China: Persecution and Forceful Assimilation
Uighur Muslims in China are subjected to harsh atrocities and persecution in order to bring them closer to a Chinese identity.
The Destiny of Freedom in the West
The Western civilization has evolved throughout the past centuries, alongside the ideals of freedom. This evolution has cast a shadow over the destiny of freedom, leaving it in a dim light.
Israel and the Peace Deals: The Key to Palestine’s Undoing
The peace deals and Israel most certainly have ignited the rise and influence of Israel, but they have blunted the Palestinian resistance.
Reaping What You Sow: Protesting India’s Agricultural Reforms
The farmers consider the recent agricultural reforms in India a reason for their indignation. They have demanded a rescission of these repressive laws.
From Globalization to Deglobalization: An Unwelcome Transition
The world is moving from globalization to deglobalization, and with heightened racism and economic disparity before us, it might not be long before we are thrown into an era of deglobalization.
