Tag "elections"
Cambodia’s pivot to China heralds a new era of authoritarianism
Increasing Chinese influence is casting a shadow over Cambodia’s political freedoms. On the backdrop of the elections, Nathan Paul explores how the result is a great deal of leeway for Prime Minister Hun Sen to suffocate dissent and criticism, and to strengthen his own power.
The Week Ahead: 22 – 28 July 2018
Brexit negotiations to continue as parliament fails to coalesce around any option. Trump Russia scandals heat up in Washington. Pakistan elections could see rise of Imran Khan as power maker.
Colombia’s president-elect inherits a polarized country
As the youngest president in Colombia’s history, Iván Duque’s fresh-faced and scandal-free image may prove useful in uniting Colombia in support of his administration. However, several formidable challenges have the potential to derail his administration.
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.
Erdogan’s lira problem
Turkey is facing one of the most serious monetary crises of its recent history. Are Erdoğan’s populist politics to blame?
Municipal elections in Tunisia – a wakeup call
On 6 May, the first municipal elections in Tunisian history took place. But, only a third of eligible voters casted a ballot, and independent lists won more votes than the governing parties in contrast to high turnout in 2014. The results signal the population’s frustration with the country’s stagnation since 2011 and political fatigue among disappointed youth.
Malaysia’s post-election challenges
Malaysia is undergoing a period of upheaval following the unprecedented electoral defeat of the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition and the subsequent release of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim. Although these are promising steps to restoring public and investor confidence in Malaysia’s government, a number of challenges need to be navigated before democracy can be fully achieved.
Turkey’s elections: the long term risks of an Erdogan win
The result could be the final straw in a fractured relationship with the West that moves Turkey ever closer to Russia and illiberalism and away from its NATO allies and EU membership aspirations and might make Erdogan the most powerful leader since Ataturk.
Round Five for President Bouteflika?
Despite serious health problems, Algeria’s President Abdelaziz Bouteflika may stand for a fifth term in office, leaving many to question if the country’s political elite are bereft of a feasible transition plan.
Special report: The impact of Iraq’s 2018 parliamentary elections
On 12 May, Iraqis chose their representatives for Parliament. In an environment influenced by the four-year conflict with the Islamic State and the fragmentation of politics, these elections are a critical test.
