In the dense tapestry of Asia’s socio-political life, religion weaves a dominant thread, influencing not merely personal convictions but shaping the very ethos of national identities and legislative frameworks. The continent, a mosaic of beliefs ranging from the polytheistic spectacles of Hinduism to the monotheistic tenets of Islam and Christianity, and the philosophic
In this episode, Kai Gibson discusses the United States’ role in international conflicts and diplomacy. The segment begins with the situation in Ukraine, questioning whether the US can sustain its support without overextending its resources. The focus then shifts to Israel, where the US must adapt its long-standing support to match the changing
Lauren Johnston, South African Institute of International Affairs China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which now includes 44 African countries, got under way 10 years ago. President Xi Jinping launched it in 2013 with a first speech in Kazakhstan and a second one in Indonesia. The initiative is something of a trial-by-doing development policy
Tom Harper, University of East London The Taliban’s presence at the massive October jamboree in Beijiing to celebrate the 10th year of China’s ambitious trade plan, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is part of Beijing’s regional strategy. This was one of only a handful of foreign visits made by the Taliban since
Preamble In the epoch of digital interconnectivity, the ubiquity of the internet has revolutionised the paradigm of communication, knowledge acquisition, and trade transactions. Nevertheless, the upsurge of social networks, web-based dialogues, and virtual conglomerates has not only broadened the spectrum of interaction but also catalysed the emergence of cyber hostility. This nefarious phenomenon
U.S. sanctions have further strained relations between the two superpowers. narvikk/iStock/Getty Images Plus Bashar Malkawi, University of Arizona After a recent meeting between U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and officials in Beijing, China released a statement demanding “practical action” over the issue of sanctions. The implication was that the punitive measures – imposed
Gavin D. J. Harper, University of Birmingham From August, China is to restrict exports of gallium and germanium, two critical elements for making semiconductor chips. With China dominating the supply of both elements, exporters will now need special licences to get them out of the country. The move has the potential to harm
Welcome to “News of the Week. In today’s episode, we discuss China’s expanding presence in the South Pacific, particularly the Solomon Islands, and the concerns raised by Australia. China and the Solomon Islands recently pledged to enhance their security cooperation, sparking alarm over China’s growing influence in the region. Australia demands transparency and
ph. Shutterstock Jonathan Munemo, Salisbury University The Biden administration has ratcheted up protectionism and industrial policy amid surging economic tensions with China. Legislation passed in 2022 unlocked hundreds of billions of dollars in subsidies to spur domestic production of renewable energy and electric vehicles, and to support other decarbonisation goals. The legislation is
Is a wildly popular social media app a threat to U.S. citizens? AP Photo/Michael Dwyer Doug Jacobson, Iowa State University On May 24, 2023, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte signed legislation banning TikTok in the state. The law imposes fines of US$10,000 per day on any app store that offers the popular Chinese-owned video