Politics
Sweden towards yet another hung parliament: it’s all about the kingmaker
On 9 September, Swedes cast their ballots in this year’s general elections. Governed by rather weak minority coalitions for the past two terms, there is little to suggest that the four years to come will be much different – unless old coalitions are dissolved and new ones built, that is.
What’s the deal with ZTE?
The new ZTE deal could ease bilateral tensions and prevent a global economic crisis, but it has also revealed Trump’s malleability, the growing rift within the US government, and ignored larger security threats.
Cuba’s incoming constitution unlikely to see new market reforms
The latest push to rewrite Cuba’s four-decade old constitution is another momentous opportunity for change, but it is unlikely to bring desperately need political and economic reforms expected for the island.
The US abdicates a key role at UN Human Rights Council
In another sign of its abdication of global leadership, the US has decided to withdraw from the UN human rights council, citing the latter’s hostility to Israel and favorable treatment to regimes with unsavory human rights records. What are the consequences for the world – and the Council’s future?
Czech communists’ counter-intuitive comeback
The Prime Minister of Czechia Andrej Babiš, plans to form a government supported by the communists. Consequently, for the first time since the fall of communism in 1989, the “Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia” (KSČM) has a real chance to influence the formation and policies of the new Czech government.
Iraq’s tainted elections may not derail government formation
Over a month after the election, Iraqi politics is undergoing a bifurcated dynamic of proceeding with the government formation process, while simultaneously trying to address credible allegation of serious electoral irregularities.
The IMF joins President Macri’s bid to ward off political risks
The Argentine government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on 7 June agreed to a Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) of up to $50 billion after suffering a speculative attack on the Argentine peso in May.
The Russian opposition: Digging an elephant’s grave with a teaspoon
On 5 May, opposition leader Alexey Navalny led mass unsanctioned protests against the inauguration of President Vladimir Putin. Soon after, Navalny was sentenced to 30 days in prison. Andre Martirosyan asks: is political opposition in Russia a hopeless cause – or will hints of generational change grow into a mass movement?
National cynicism and foreign outcry overshadow Lebanese elections
Having postponed elections twice, Lebanon now has a new parliament after nine years. The results of the elections raise questions about the internal and external issues that threaten Lebanon’s stability and prosperity.
The Week Ahead: 3-9 June 2018
The G7 meets in Canada as EU and North America struggle with US tariffs. Swiss monetary referendum potentially complicates markets. New Spanish government grapples with nationalist challenges. All in The
