Global Watch

Iran is facing a growing wave of unrest as a collapsing currency and rising inflation push protests beyond Tehran into cities across the country. What began as strikes by shopkeepers has turned into nationwide demonstrations, violent clashes with security forces, and increased pressure on Iran’s leadership at a sensitive geopolitical moment.   How and Why the Protests Started The protests began after the Iranian rial plunged to a re...

2025 has been one of the most turbulent years for democracy in Africa. Across the continent, protests, disputed elections, and military takeovers exposed deep failures in governance. From deadly crackdowns on demonstrators to the rise of military-led governments, political instability has become a defining theme of the year.   As governance analyst Mo Ibrahim warned, “The increase in coups, the return of military governments, and the...

While the US, China, and Russia grab the headlines at the United Nations, Southeast Asian countries are quietly shaping global diplomacy. Known as middle powers, these nations are finding ways to have a big impact despite not having superpower military strength.   Middle Powers Making Their Mark Southeast Asia uses its influence to mediate conflicts, promote diplomacy, and encourage international cooperation. Nations like the Philippines,...

The United States has carried out an airstrike against Islamic State militants in northwest Nigeria, placing US firepower directly inside the country for the first time in years. The strike, launched on December 25, marks a significant escalation in Washington’s role in Nigeria’s internal security fight.   US Africa Command said several fighters were killed in the operation, which was conducted at the request of the Nigerian go...

On a map, India's Siliguri Corridor looks insignificant. In reality, the narrow land bridge in the north of the country is one of its most critical pieces of territory.   Often called the “Chicken’s Neck,” this strip of land is India’s only land link to its eight northeastern states. Without it, more than 40 million people would be cut off from the rest of the country.   At its narrowest point, the corridor i...