Debate Corner
‘Debate Corner’ provides critical insight into the world’s most challenging political risk topics. Through well-balanced opinion based articles, the Debate Corner offer a forum for deeper discussion into how major political decisions and security challenges affect markets, investment, and economic growth across the globe.
Does Scotland Need the EU?
Scottish independence is trusted back into the spotlight after the Brexit referendum, and EU membership is key to that dream. However, Britain does not oppose Scottish independence alone, as Scotland leaving the UK and joining the EU helps Catalonia argue for their own independence from Spain.
Will the link between climate change and conflict be recognised?
Although scientists, politicians and academics differ as to whether climate change directly causes armed conflict, humanitarian organisations like the International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent believe the role climate change plays in violent strife can no longer be ignored. Communities have been torn apart by ethnic tensions exacerbated by drought-induced resource scarcity, and if world leaders fail to address the devastating effects of climate change, peacekeeping efforts in unstable territories could suffer.
Cuts in the European Defence Fund’s budget: at what cost?
The European Defence Fund (EDF) was originally intended as a key measure for achieving European strategic autonomy. Its downsizing is putting future EU military and industrial capabilities into question, while highlighting the permanent lack of defence cooperation between EU member states.
Russia: Space Expansionism Anew?
After the discovery of phosphine in Venus’ atmosphere, Russian Space Agency Roscosmos was quick to reaffirm Moscow’s commitment to exploring the planet. Furthermore, Russia’s previously dominant position in international space travel has been challenged since private actors have entered the field. These two factors prompt a potential revival of Russian extraterrestrial ambitions.
Economic slowdown and China’s green future
China has adopted a high-profile role as a champion for climate action and renewable energy. Yet, as the country faces new economic constraints, its climate endeavour might be in danger.
Is a new revolution on the horizon in Tunisia?
A flare-up of protests in Tunisia in early January had observers wondering whether the country was headed for renewed unrest and disarray. GRI asks: Will the upcoming elections serve as a catalyst?
Will EU divisions delay Nord Stream 2?
A recent proposal from the European Commission to amend gas market regulations seems targeted at Russia’s Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Europe is increasingly divided on the benefits of the project. GRI asks: Will Russia’s economic ambitions be stymied by European opposition?
Is Sri Lanka the new hotspot in India-China relations?
Chinese- and Indian-funded capital projects in Sri Lanka are mired in controversy. GRI asks: has the island state has become a new frontier in Sino-Indian relations?
Should Japan go nuclear?
GRI Debate: Should Japan abandon a long-held pacifist stance and acquire nuclear weapons? Amid escalating rhetoric between Pyongyang and Washington, it has been suggested that Japan should support the US
Is the referendum on Kurdish independence a spark in a powder keg?
GRI Debate: Will the independence referendum in Kurdistan further destabilize Iraq and the region? Kurdish authorities announced on Wednesday that Iraqi Kurds overwhelmingly voted in favour of a split from Iraq,
