Pakistan’s Current Economic Situation: From the Devastating Floods to the IMF
After being struck by devastating floods, Pakistan’s already struggling economy is expected to further slow down in the next year. Aamina Ikram analyzes Pakistan’s current economic situation, highlighting the Asian Development Bank’s report on the state’s shrinking economy. She argues that in a state affected by political turmoil, economic instability, and environmental catastrophe, the IMF has played a significant role in crisis management.
Russo-Ukrainian War: Western Support, Global Economy & the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant
After 6 months of continuous fighting, the Russia-Ukraine war shows no signs of ending. Aamina Ikram notes that despite Russia commanding the world’s second-largest military, Ukraine has been able to fight back – thanks to the West’s endless support. The war has already taken the lives of more than 5,000 people, and has struck a huge blow to the global economy. The world is also wary of a nuclear catastrophe emanating from Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which is currently occupied by Russian forces.
Pelosi’s Visit Shakes Cross-Strait Relations
Taiwan has always been a flashpoint between Beijing and Washington, but Pelosi’s recent visit to Taiwan – despite harsh warnings – has infuriated China. A wave of trade sanctions & military operations has the island concerned about an earlier reunification. Aamina Ikram believes that US guaranteeing the ‘security’ of Taiwan is fanning a security dilemma in the Indo-Pacific region.
Muqtada al-Sadr, the US, & Iraq’s Political Turmoil
Iraq’s political unrest has been years in the making. The consensus-based political system imposed on Iraq as a result of the 2003 American invasion has brought corruption and inefficiency to the state’s governance. Aamina Ikram notes that in the face of the rising instability, Muqtada-al-Sadr presents a ray of hope for most Iraqis, with his claims of establishing a majoritarian government for Iraq. However, since Iraq has been unable to form a new government even after 10 months post elections, the supporters of al-Sadr stormed the Iraqi Parliament & breached the Green Zone in protest.