Together, these crisis zones will shape migration flows, global security , trade routes, and diplomatic alignments well beyond their borders.

Sudan

Sudan remains the most severe humanitarian emergency globally. The civil war that erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has devastated the country, displacing millions and pushing large populations toward famine. In the last year, the conflict showed little sign of resolution, with fighting increasingly fragmented and spilling into neighbouring states such as Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This year, the country could risk sliding further toward de facto partition, a scenario that would entrench instability across the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor.

Yemen

In Yemen, the conflict is evolving rather than ending. While large-scale fighting has reduced in some areas, the country is increasingly divided between Houthi-controlled territories in the north and rival factions in the south backed by regional powers. This fragmentation weakens prospects for national reconciliation and carries global implications due to Yemen’s proximity to vital Red Sea shipping lanes. As maritime security concerns grow, Yemen’s instability in 2026 will remain tightly linked to regional geopolitics and global trade.

Myanmar

Myanmar enters 2026 locked in a protracted civil war following the 2021 military coup. Armed resistance groups now control significant territory, while the junta struggles to govern beyond major urban centres. Planned or proposed elections under these conditions risk deepening Myanmar’s legitimacy crisis rather than resolving it. The humanitarian toll continues to rise, with millions displaced and neighbouring countries such as Thailand, China, and Bangladesh absorbing the spillover effects.

DR Congo

In eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, violence persists despite diplomatic efforts to stabilise the region. Armed groups, including M23, continue to challenge state authority, exploiting ethnic tensions, especially in Goma and competition over mineral resources. Peace agreements reached last year still face serious implementation challenges , and failure to consolidate them in 2026 could destabilise the wider Great Lakes region, where conflict has long crossed borders and drawn in neighbouring states.

Nigeria

Nigeria’s crisis heading into 2026 is defined by overlapping insurgency, criminal violence, and worsening economic pressure, with jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP continuing attacks across the northeast and northwest. In the Middle Belt and parts of the north, violence has increasingly targeted Christian communities, with deadly attacks in late 2025 killing dozens of civilians in Benue and Plateau states, particularly around the Christmas period.

The situation escalated internationally when the United States carried out airstrikes on December 24–25, 2025, hitting ISIS-linked camps in northwest Nigeria at the request of the Nigerian government. While the strikes disrupted militant operations, analysts warn that without addressing governance failures, poverty, and local grievances, Nigeria’s insecurity is likely to persist and deepen in 2026.

Taiwan vs. China

Beyond active war zones, strategic flashpoints are also reshaping risk in the Global South. Rising tensions between China and Taiwan, while centred in East Asia, carry global consequences that will be felt acutely across developing economies. Any escalation would disrupt trade , shipping routes, and semiconductor supply chains, forcing many Global South countries, deeply tied to both Chinese and Western economic systems, to navigate difficult diplomatic and economic choices.

India–Pakistan ceasefire agreement (South Asia)

In May 2025, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire after a period of heightened military tensions along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. The agreement was welcomed as a significant diplomatic step toward reducing hostilities between two nuclear‑armed neighbours who have fought repeated clashes in the region for decades. However, in the weeks following the deal, there were reports of minor violations and exchanges of fire, illuminating the fragile and contested nature of the truce. Despite these challenges, the ceasefire created space for renewed diplomatic engagement and prevented further large‑scale escalation in 2025.

DRC–Rwanda peace agreement (Central/East Africa)

On 27 June 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda signed a US‑brokered peace agreement aimed at stemming long‑running conflict and militia activity in eastern DRC. The accord outlined a timetable for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and the creation of joint security mechanisms, along with broader frameworks for cooperation among Great Lakes states. Although widely seen as an important diplomatic breakthrough with the potential to stabilise the region, implementation has faced serious practical and security challenges. Militia activity, logistical obstacles, and mutual mistrust have slowed progress, and the agreement’s long‑term impact depends on sustained political will from both capitals.

Cambodia–Thailand ceasefire (Southeast Asia)

On 26 October 2025, Cambodia and Thailand signed the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord during the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, establishing an interim ceasefire and steps to de‑escalate longstanding border tensions. The agreement was backed by regional leaders and U.S. President Donald Trump, who played a visible role in encouraging both sides to halt hostilities. The accord included provisions such as coordinated troop withdrawals, joint de‑mining operations, and international monitoring to reduce accidental clashes along disputed frontier zones.

The deal was built on earlier ceasefire efforts mediated by Malaysia as ASEAN chair and supported by Trump, after months of sporadic clashes and large-scale displacement. While the agreement was widely hailed as a diplomatic success, skirmishes and disagreements over implementation persisted in some sectors. Renewed fighting in December 2025 prompted a special ASEAN ministerial meeting to revive and reinforce the peace process originally supported by regional leaders and Trump. Despite its challenges, the accord marked a significant step in structured cooperation between the two governments.

United Nations high-level conference on the Two-State Solution (Middle East)

In July 2025, the United Nations convened the Palestine Two‑State Solution Conference, a high-level meeting aimed at reinvigorating international efforts toward a two-state resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The conference brought together representatives from countries across the Global South and other regions to discuss diplomatic strategies, coordinate international support, and identify concrete steps for sustained peacebuilding. The event fostered dialogue and strategic planning, it did not result in a binding agreement or a final political resolution, serving primarily as a forum to strengthen international coordination around the two-state solution framework.

Israel–Hamas ceasefire (Middle East)

In October 2025, Israel and Hamas agreed to a U.S.‑backed ceasefire to pause one of the most destructive phases of the Gaza conflict that began in October 2023. The first phase of the deal included Israel withdrawing forces to agreed positions inside Gaza and Hamas releasing hostages held since the 2023 attacks, while both sides pledged to reduce hostilities and allow increased humanitarian access across crossings. This agreement was hailed internationally as a significant step toward ending active large‑scale fighting after two years of intense conflict.

Despite the truce entering into force and creating periods of relative calm, the ceasefire has been fragile and contested. Both sides have accused one another of violations, and periodic exchanges of fire have occurred, complicating efforts to implement subsequent phases of the deal. Independent sources report that — even after the ceasefire — hundreds of Palestinians have been killed in incidents that local health authorities attribute to Israeli operations, and humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain severe, with disputes over aid delivery and access continuing to impede relief efforts.

The ceasefire has not yet resulted in a comprehensive political settlement to the broader Israeli‑Palestinian conflict. Negotiations over long‑term governance, security arrangements, and disarmament have stalled, and international pressure persists to ensure that the agreement holds and leads to expanded humanitarian and reconstruction initiatives.

Guyana–Venezuela — diplomatic talks over Essequibo dispute (South America)

In 2025, diplomatic engagement continued between Guyana and Venezuela over the long‑standing Essequibo territorial dispute. Regional organisations and international mediators worked to prevent escalation after a period of heightened tensions in prior years, and both governments engaged in dialogue to manage disagreements. Although no formal settlement was reached during this period, sustained diplomacy contributed to maintaining relative stability in northern South America. The case remains before the International Court of Justice, and continued negotiations have been viewed as crucial in preventing renewed conflict over the disputed territory.

Although many of these agreements and conferences did not result in final resolutions or full implementation, they represent important steps towards the peaceful management of complex conflicts. The persistence of tensions, implementation challenges, and the fragility of some accords demonstrate that diplomacy is an ongoing process, requiring sustained political commitment and international cooperation. The developments of 2025 underline the relevance of Global South participation and leadership in maintaining dialogue and coordinating international efforts to address geopolitical and humanitarian challenges that continue to affect millions of people worldwide.

“Thailand’s reported air strikes along its disputed border with Cambodia sound alarming, and they are,” he said, noting that such confrontations between ASEAN neighbours are rare and increase the risk of miscalculation. He insisted, however, that “a full-scale regional war is still very unlikely.”

Contreras’ statement comes after Thailand confirmed on Monday that it had carried out air strikes on Cambodian positions after accusing Phnom Penh of breaching a ceasefire brokered earlier this year. 

One Thai soldier was killed and eight others wounded, prompting the Air Force to deploy aircraft “to deter and reduce Cambodia's military capabilities,” according to a Thai army statement.

Cambodia rejected the accusations and said Thailand launched dawn attacks at two locations following “provocative actions.” Its defence ministry insisted Cambodian forces had “not responded,” even as three civilians were reported seriously wounded. Former leader Hun Sen called Thailand the “aggressors” and urged Cambodian troops to exercise restraint.

Contreras stressed that the clashes remain geographically limited. “The conflict is localized,” he said, explaining that the fighting is confined to long-contested border areas with a history of flare-ups. “There is no sign of nationwide mobilization from either side.”

He also pointed out limitations of both Thailand's and Cambodia’s militaries and economies.

“Neither military is built for prolonged interstate war,” he said. Both armies are primarily oriented toward internal security and border defence, making extended conflict “neither feasible nor desirable.”

“Economies, especially Thailand’s, can’t afford escalation,” he added, noting that tourism is a vital component of Thailand’s economy and that reports of “air strikes” alone can alarm visitors.

Regional and international actors are also likely to act to prevent escalation. Contreras noted incentives for the United States , China, and neighbouring governments to pressure both sides into dialogue. ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim has already urged “maximum restraint.”

Contreras said urgent diplomatic intervention is needed, but the risk of a full-scale regional war remains low. 

“This is concerning and needs quick diplomatic intervention, but a debilitating Thailand–Cambodia war that destabilizes the region is still highly unlikely. Economic pressure, ASEAN dynamics, and political reality all point toward de-escalation rather than war,” he said.

According to the source , Tokyo was informed of the cancellations shortly after Beijing launched retaliatory measures over Takaichi’s November 7 remarks, in which she suggested Japan could deploy military forces in the event of a conflict in the Taiwan Strait. 

“Usually, November and December are the season for youth exchanges, but now they have all been called off,” the source said.

The freeze comes as Beijing intensifies pressure on Tokyo to force Takaichi to retract her statement, which she has refused to do. 

China has advised its citizens against travelling to Japan and urged students to reconsider studying there, citing safety concerns. It has also postponed planned diplomatic meetings, including a trilateral summit with Japan and South Korea that Tokyo was due to host.

The disruption is already affecting scheduled school visits. 

Earlier this month, 16 students and teachers from Wuxi in Jiangsu province cancelled a sister-city trip to Sagamihara in Kanagawa prefecture, according to Japanese officials. 

In Okinawa, education authorities said Chinese partners had abruptly scrapped a two-week language and cultural exchange to Shanghai for 20 high school students set to begin this weekend.

Scholars say the halt risks deepening hostility between the two countries at a time when ties are strained by territorial disputes in the East China Sea and Tokyo’s closer alignment with Washington to counter China. 

Shin Kawashima, an international relations professor at the University of Tokyo, described the suspension as worrying, warning that youth exchanges had long been seen as crucial stabilising tools when diplomacy faltered.

Earlier in November, Takaichi said Japan could consider deploying military forces if conflict erupted in the Taiwan Strait, arguing that instability around Taiwan — which lies close to Japan’s southwestern islands — would directly threaten Japan’s security . 

Beijing condemned the comments as a violation of its “one-China” principle and an attempt to interfere in its internal affairs, demanding a public retraction. 

Takaichi has since maintained that her remarks were consistent with Japan’s national security policy.

“This development is extremely dangerous and warrants high vigilance from neighbouring countries and the international community,” Mao warned.

She argued that Japanese political factions are deliberately pushing beyond the limits of the nation’s post-war Peace Constitution.

“Japanese right-wing forces are striving to break free from the constraints of the Peace Constitution, venturing further down the path of militarism and reckless expansion, leading Japan and the region towards disaster,” she said.

China also confirmed it has postponed a planned trilateral summit between China, Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK), saying the political conditions required for the meeting have collapsed.

Mao pointed to recent comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan as a major contributing factor.

“Japanese leaders have openly made erroneous remarks on the Taiwan issue, undermining the foundation and atmosphere for trilateral cooperation,” she stated. “The conditions for holding the Leaders’ Meeting are currently unfeasible.”

Beijing signalled it will now take the issue to the United Nations , accusing Japan of undermining the One-China principle.

“If Japan merely repeats that its position has not changed while remaining vague on specifics, and continuously oversteps boundaries in its actions, then such reiteration is nothing but empty words,” Mao said.

The diplomatic row has already seeped into daily life, prompting travel warnings and leading to thousands of cancelled flights on both sides as relations deteriorate further.

Ning condemned the “false narratives and unwarranted attacks” being hurled at China.

She described the South China Sea arbitration case — a landmark 2016 decision that declared waters being claimed by China belong to the Philippines — as a mere “political farce” that had no real binding force.

“The so-called ‘South China Sea Arbitration Case’ is a political farce disguised as a legal case, with the aim of stirring up trouble in the South China Sea and profiting from it,” Ning said. 

“The so-called 'ruling' is illegal, invalid, and has no binding force; China has neither accepted nor recognised it from the outset.”

China has been aggressively asserting its authority over the South China Sea, with its coast guard repeatedly running after Philippine ships, engaging the water cannon, and ramming into foreign boats. 

Despite heating tensions in the region, China said East China Sea and the South China Sea are “generally stable.” 

“The Asia-Pacific region is a high ground for cooperation and development, not a chessboard for geopolitical games,” Ning said. “Engaging in bloc politics and camp confrontation will not bring peace and security, and is detrimental to the stability of the Asia-Pacific region and the world ."

“We're the No. 1 nuclear power, which I hate to admit because it's so horrible. It's such a horrible situation if it ever has to be used,” he said. “Russia's second. China's a distant third. But they'll catch us within four or five years. They want to catch us, and they'll be able to catch us.” 

“We're maybe working on a plan to denuclearize the three of us. We'll see if that works,” he added.

Recently, Trump ordered the Pentagon to resume the testing of nuclear weapons, which, if it is pushed through, will be the first to be conducted since 1992. 

This move came amid an informal global moratorium on nuclear testing, and after Trump accused Russia and China of covert underground nuclear testing. 

While watching out for its competitors, the US has never lost a war , Trump said. 

“Never lost a war. We still don't lose wars. We just sometimes don't fight to win,” he said. 

“We'll stay around the country for 15 years, just bomb the hell out of everybody, make everybody miserable. Nobody knows why we're there.”

“They took out, they killed an Israeli soldier, so the Israelis hit back and they should hit back. When that happens, they should,” he told reporters aboard Air Force One. 

Trump added that “nothing” will jeopardise the ceasefire in Gaza .

Israeli forces said they struck dozens of terror targets and terrorists in retaliation for what they described as violations of the ceasefire.

Israel’s defence minister accused Hamas of an attack that killed an Israeli soldier and of breaching terms on the return of deceased hostages. Hamas denied involvement, saying it had no connection to the attack and accusing Israel of trying to undermine the truce.

The Gaza health ministry reported at least 104 Palestinians killed in the strikes on Tuesday night, a toll that underlined how fragile the ceasefire remains.  

Trump characterised Hamas as a narrow but deadly force.

“Hamas is a very small part of peace in the Middle East and they have to behave,” he said, adding that “if they're not good, they're going to be terminated. Their lives will be terminated.”

Trump also suggested broader international backing for enforcement of the accord, noting that “we have many countries that are willing to do that.” 

“You know, we have many countries, even Japan today, said we'd love to be involved in the Middle East.” 

In response, Petro doubled down on his criticism, accusing Donald Trump of being “an accomplice to genocide” in Gaza and declaring that the US president “deserves nothing but prison.” Foreign Minister Rosa Villavicencio and Finance Minister Germán Ávila announced they had voluntarily given up their visas in solidarity with the president, while Mining Minister Edwin Palma and senior adviser Angie Rodríguez confirmed theirs had been cancelled by US authorities.

Petro took to social media to frame the cancellations as a badge of honour, writing: “It fills us with pride not to have the visa of a country whose government supports genocide.” Other cabinet members, including Interior Minister Armando Benedetti, suggested more resignations could follow, noting that his own visa had already been revoked twice in the past.

The fallout comes amid a series of confrontations between Bogotá and Washington. Petro has long clashed with Trump over migration, trade and drug policy, while Colombia broke diplomatic ties with Israel in 2024 over the war in Gaza. During Monday’s cabinet meeting, the president announced an end to the free trade agreement with Israel and highlighted plans for Colombia to manufacture its own assault rifles, replacing Israeli imports.

Despite the strain, the US continues to provide Colombia with significant economic and military aid, even after withdrawing its certification as a reliable ally in anti-narcotics efforts earlier this month. With Petro now barred from the United States but holding Italian citizenship, analysts warn that the visa dispute could further complicate already fraught relations between the two countries.

“With a war raging, Hamas remaining the de facto government of Gaza, and no clarity on next steps, too many questions remain about the future state of Palestine for it to be prudent for New Zealand to announce recognition at this time,” he said. 

Peters added that recognition in the current climate “could complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire by pushing Israel and Hamas into even more intransigent positions.”

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon echoed that stance in Auckland the following day, stressing that recognition was “a question of when, not if.” He said New Zealanders could be “proud” of the government’s independent decision. 

“We are not pro-Palestine, nor Israel, and we are friends to both. What we are is pro-peace,” Luxon said.

The decision leaves New Zealand among a minority of countries, including the United States, Japan and South Korea, that have withheld recognition. It stood apart from partners such as Australia, Canada and Britain, which on Sunday joined more than 140 nations that formally backed Palestinian aspirations for statehood.

Officials in Wellington argued that the timing was key. 

A government handout released on Friday said New Zealand “hoped to recognise a Palestinian state at a time when the situation on the ground offers greater prospects for peace and negotiation than at present.” 

Luxon said his government would continue to support the Palestinian Authority in building governance and institutions to prepare for eventual statehood.

Critics, however, accused the government of moral failure. 

Former prime minister Helen Clark called it a “day of shame” for New Zealand, noting the decision had been taken 11 days earlier but disclosed late in the UN debate. 

Labour’s foreign affairs spokesperson, Peeni Henare, said the government had placed New Zealand “on the wrong side of history,” adding: “There is no two-state solution or enduring peace in the Middle East without recognition of Palestine as a state.”

Caracas Mayor Carmen Meléndez stressed to Viory the importance of readiness for “any national or international emergency”, adding: “They have already shown that they are capable of anything … we are prepared”.

The initiative brought together the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB), firefighters, police and local communities, underscoring the government’s emphasis on unity and mobilisation. It also coincides with an ongoing recruitment drive for the Bolivarian National Militia, following a recent video released by the Trump administration showcasing US military exercises in Puerto Rico.

The drills come against a backdrop of heightened friction between Washington and Caracas, after the US deployed marines and warships to the Caribbean in what it described as anti-drug trafficking operations – a move Venezuela has denounced as a direct threat to regional peace .

“Today, no one but ourselves can guarantee security. Only strong alliances, only strong partners, and only our own weapons,” Zelensky said. He called the reality “sick,” but insisted it was unavoidable.

The Ukrainian leader argued that international law was powerless without enforcement by states willing to act. He added that even those willing partners could not offer guarantees without military strength of their own. “There are no security guarantees except friends and weapons,” he said.

Zelensky acknowledged the contradiction between Ukraine’s traditionally peaceful outlook and its present need to invest heavily in defence. Ukrainians, he said, would have chosen another path if possible, but were left with no alternative in the face of Russian aggression.

The president also cast doubt on the ability of global institutions to address conflicts elsewhere. He pointed to Sudan, Somalia, Palestine and Syria as examples of peoples left waiting for international support while wars and sanctions continued to devastate them.

“For decades, just statements and statements,” Zelensky said, adding that Syria, despite years of upheaval, still had to appeal to the world for relief from sanctions.

Turning back to the Middle East , Zelensky cited the ongoing violence in Gaza as another example of the UN’s weakness. He said the conflict remained unresolved, with “no way out” offered by international mechanisms.

Zelensky stressed that Ukraine’s war showed the costs of those failings. He said people were still dying every week because Moscow refused a ceasefire and the international community lacked the means to compel one.

“Ukrainians are peaceful people, but they are people who want to live freely in their own independent country,” he said. “That’s why we invest in defence. For many nations, there is simply no other way left.”

The message was delivered on one of the world’s biggest diplomatic stages, where many world leaders expressed support for Ukraine and other territories facing unrest, such as Palestine and Syria.

In an interview on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Trump said the war, now approaching its fourth year, had defied early predictions of a swift Russian victory. Trump said Ukraine had “a lot of courage, a lot of guts” and deserved credit for stopping what he described as a “very large army.”

The comments mark a notable departure from Trump’s earlier criticism of Kyiv's ability to withstand Russia's military power. Just in February, he criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for doing a "terrible job" in navigating the invasion.

Asked whether NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft if they enter their airspace, Trump replied, “Yes I do.” He later added that any U.S. response would depend on circumstances, but insisted the alliance had grown stronger under his leadership.

Trump also pointed to rising defence spending among NATO members, claiming that contributions had risen from 2% to 5% of output. He said the shift represented “great unity” and stressed that many countries were now buying weapons directly from the United States.

He drew a contrast with President Joe Biden, accusing the previous administration of giving Ukraine aid “without getting much in return.” By contrast, he said, NATO members are now paying the United States for weapons, pumping “trillions of dollars” into the alliance’s collective security.

Russia hurting

On the flipside, Trump said Moscow was suffering from the prolonged conflict, which has brought sanctions and isolation.

“The Russian economy is terrible right now,” he said. “As you know, it’s crashing.”

Washington itself had imposed a great deal of sanctions against countries buying oil from Russia, the sales of which Trump said were being used to fund the war in Ukraine.

Trump was also asked about Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s continued purchases of Russian oil. He described Orban as “a friend” and said he had not spoken to him directly. “But I have a feeling if I did, he might stop,” Trump added.

For now, Trump’s sharpest shift was reserved for his remarks on Ukraine’s battlefield performance.

“This was supposed to be quick,” he said. “And so, you know, Russia doesn't look very distinguished. Having taken three and a half years now, three and a half years of very hard fighting. And it looks like it's not going to end for a long time."

Equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems, cannons, anti-ship missiles, a missile launch system, and a helicopter, the Van Amstel is considered one of the Dutch Navy’s most versatile warships. It is capable of surface and anti-submarine combat, artillery support, and air defence .

While Dutch authorities emphasise the mission’s role in strengthening security and stability in the Caribbean territories of the kingdom—Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten—local voices have raised concerns. Activist and former soldier Marlon Regales criticised the deployment, arguing that the official justification of combating drug cartels is unconvincing. “No one believes that fairy tale. They’re here to apply pressure”, he said, suggesting the move is part of wider geopolitical tensions involving Venezuela.

Regales also highlighted Curaçao’s colonial dependency on the Netherlands, warning that residents reject being used as a staging ground for potential military action in the region.

Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans stated in late August that the Netherlands could send additional forces from Europe if necessary, but stressed that The Hague is not formally part of the U.S.-led deployment near Venezuela.

“The RSF controls most of western Sudan; the army holds the east, including the capital. The centre is a battleground,” van Linge said, describing RSF methods as “genocidal” and warning that if the last major holdout city in Darfur falls, “tens of thousands, maybe hundreds of thousands, of lives could be at risk.”

What’s happening on the ground?

Amongst many other strategies, the RSF has tightened its control of El Fasher, the Sudanese army’s final stronghold in Darfur and a refuge for hundreds of thousands, using berms and earth walls to cut off routes, amid shelling and ground assaults. A report from the Middle East Eye indicated that independent satellite analysis and field reporting depict a city starved of supplies and pounded by fire. 

There have also been reports of killings of fleeing civilians and summary executions. Local and international monitors have documented summary executions by the RSF and allied militias, with multiple recent incidents around El Fasher and displacement camps; a reputable Sudan outlet reported at least 15 civilians shot dead while attempting to flee the city. “At least 15 people were executed on Saturday morning by RSF gunfire while trying to reach the town of Garni, west of El Fasher,” a source told the Sudan Tribune .

The UN human rights office has repeatedly flagged continuing killings in El Fasher and Abu Shouk camp, while earlier UN alerts reported emerging patterns of summary executions in the conflict. 

The Human Rights Watch World Report 2025 details “executions, torture and ill-treatment” by RSF and army forces across multiple fronts, adding to a record of ethnically targeted attacks in Darfur that UN experts and rights groups say could amount to mass atrocities.  

Van Linge traced the war to a rupture inside the security apparatus, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) versus the RSF, a powerful paramilitary with roots in Darfur militias. The RSF advanced early across much of Darfur and parts of central Sudan, while the SAF consolidated in the east.

Incumbent Philippine President Marcos Jr., son of the Philippine dictator who signed the 1975 communique, has continued this policy. Despite his own qualms about Beijing in the West Philippine Sea, his administration has repeatedly stressed that Manila does not recognise Taiwan’s independence .

On August 28, Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro reiterated the government’s position before a Senate hearing, saying that while the Philippines is for peace and dialogue, it recognises only one, sole, and legal government of China.

“The Filipino people have long-standing relations with the Taiwanese people, and we therefore benefit from continued engagement with them,” Lazaro said. “But, just to add a little bit more, we do not recognise Taiwan as a sovereign state.”

Lazaro, who described her office as a “guardian and steward” of the One-China policy, made the remarks amid renewed debate over how Manila might respond if conflict breaks out in the Taiwan Strait. 

Earlier this month, Marcos Jr. warned that the Philippines would inevitably be pulled “kicking and screaming” into a war between the U.S. and China over Taiwan . The comment that drew the ire of Beijing, which accused him of “playing with fire.” 

With Manila’s firm adherence to the One-China principle on one hand and its defence alliance with Washington on the other, questions are growing over whether the Philippines would defend Taiwan in the event of conflict.

Veteran defence journalist Manny Mogato believes the Philippines’ neutrality is unlikely. 

In an August 13 interview with Global South World, Mogato cited three reasons why the Philippines would likely side with Washington if it intervened to protect Taiwan from a Chinese invasion — or, in Beijing’s words, a “reunification.” 

First is geography. The Philippines sits about 1,200 kilometres south of Taiwan, directly along potential conflict routes in the South China Sea, inevitably drawing it into air and maritime operations simply by virtue of its location.

Second is the country’s 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty with the U.S., which predates the 1975 pact with Beijing. The treaty obliges Manila to come to Washington’s aid if U.S. forces are attacked in the Pacific, a scenario that could extend to a war over Taiwan.

How would this play out, considering the Philippines is constrained by its limited military capabilities? Mogato said Manila’s role would likely be logistical rather than combat-focused.

“Of course, we cannot send troops. We cannot send the Air Force and Navy ships because we don't have that capability. But we can support through logistics,” he said. “They can refuel here, store their armaments, or use this as a staging point — that will be the Philippines’ use.” 

Third is the presence of U.S. forces on Philippine soil. There are nine Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites across the country: five in Luzon, one in the Visayas, and three in Mindanao. 

These facilities host joint exercises, preposition supplies, and enhance U.S. access to Philippine bases.

Mogato warned that these sites could become targets in a regional conflict.

“On these three grounds, even if the Philippines doesn’t want to, it will inevitably be drawn into conflict,” he said. “It’s impossible that we don’t get involved in this trouble.”

For now, as Marcos Jr. hopes for cooler heads to prevail over Taiwan, he has also recognised the need to prepare for all eventualities, especially considering the almost 200,000 overseas Filipino workers on the island.

  What they said

The Sudan Doctors Network said in a statement, “The network calls on the international community and humanitarian organisations to act immediately to provide food and basic healthcare to the camp's residents, especially children and pregnant women.”

"The AFC/M23 promises to provide you with a daily bulletin of ceasefire violations by the government coalition. Every day they are violating the ceasefire, even just after the signing in Doha, they attacked us," said Mbonimpa, who led the AFC/M23 delegation in the negotiations backed by Qatar.

"Across from us, we have people who violate every agreement. And I'm starting to fear that, given the way government officials are communicating and conveying the message, this declaration of principles is going to be stillborn. I fear because in the media they are already distorting the entire content of the agreement, everything we have agreed upon," he added.

The DRC government and M23 signed a declaration of principles on July 19 in Doha, with mediation from Qatar. The agreement includes a timeline for negotiations aimed at reaching a peace deal by August 18.

The DRC also signed a peace agreement with Rwanda on June 27 in Washington, with support from the United States , to help end the long-standing violence in eastern Congo.

According to the United Nations , more than 27 million people in the DRC face food insecurity, while over 7 million have been forcibly displaced due to the ongoing conflict in the eastern region.

According to the data, peace has declined globally, with 78 countries experiencing increased conflict in the past year.

External conflicts, such as those in Gaza and Ukraine, have contributed significantly, but many other parts of the world, especially sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, have seen growing unrest.

Despite this trend, the Safety and Security domain recorded some improvements, particularly in perceptions of criminality and political terror.

Countries like Bangladesh, Norway, and Denmark recorded some of the steepest declines in peace due to growing militarisation. At the same time, sub-Saharan African countries such as Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Ghana are among those involved in five or more external conflicts.

The number of nations drawn into foreign wars has climbed to 98, up from 59 in 2008.

According to the index, the following countries are among the most peaceful in the Global South. They have lower conflict scores, lower levels of militarisation, and better safety records compared to many others within similar regions.

Most Peaceful Countries in the Global South (GPI 2025)

(Peace Score – Global Ranking)

Singapore – 1,367 (34)

Malaysia – 1,469 (41)

Mauritius – 1,586 (54)

Qatar – 1,593 (55)

Sierra Leone – 1,887 (57)

Madagascar – 1,895 (59)

Ghana – 1,898 (61)

Chile – 1,899 (62)

Zambia – 1,914 (64)

Uzbekistan – 1,926 (67)

Senegal – 1,936 (69)

Liberia – 1,939 (70)

Malawi – 1,955 (71)

Tanzania – 1,965 (73)

Angola – 1,987 (76)

Kyrgyz Republic – 1,988 (78)

Tajikistan – 1,996 (79)

Dominican Republic – 1,996 (79)

Tunisia – 1,998 (81)

Equatorial Guinea – 2,004 (82)

Bolivia – 2,005 (83)

Panama – 2,006 (84)

Morocco – 2,012 (85)

Thailand – 2,017 (86)

Cambodia – 2,019 (87)

Saudi Arabia – 2,034 (90)

Rwanda – 2,036 (91)

Algeria – 2,042 (92)

Côte d’Ivoire – 2,066 (94)

Peru – 2,073 (96)

Sri Lanka – 2,075 (97)

China – 2,093 (98)

Eswatini – 2,094 (99)

Guinea-Bissau – 2,112 (101)

Cuba – 2,123 (102)

Republic of the Congo – 2,132 (103)

El Salvador – 2,136 (104)

Philippines – 2,148 (105)

Egypt – 2,157 (107)

Guatemala – 2,174 (108)

Mauritania – 2,204 (110)

Out of all countries assessed, 94 became less peaceful, while only 66 showed improvement.

Two of the three main areas measured, ongoing conflict and safety and security, have worsened, with ongoing conflicts rising by 17.5%.

Only militarisation showed some improvement, but that trend has reversed in recent years.

What are the major causes?

Some of the biggest causes of the decline are the increase in external and internal wars, the rising number of refugees and displaced people, as well as weaker relations between neighbouring countries. Sixty countries now have poorer ties with their neighbours than in 2008, while only 19 have improved.

International cooperation in trade, diplomacy, and military alliances has also weakened.

Since the 2008 financial crisis, global integration has steadily declined. Countries are looking more inward, and trade restrictions have sharply risen, surpassing 3,000 in 2023, almost three times more than in 2019.

Debt burdens in developing countries are another big factor. On average, these nations now spend 42% of their government revenue on debt repayments, with China being the biggest lender.

Meanwhile, peacebuilding efforts have lost momentum. Spending on peacekeeping is now less than 1% of global military expenditure, and the number of peacekeeping troops has fallen by 42% in the past decade.

Nuclear-armed states have all increased or maintained their arsenals since 2022.

A new arms race is also emerging in high-tech weaponry such as AI-powered drones and space-targeting systems, driven by growing rivalry between major powers.

Conflicts that involve foreign military involvement inside another country have gone up by 175% since 2010. This includes 78 countries participating in wars beyond their borders.

The GPI now identifies 34 countries as having significant influence in the affairs of other nations, up from just six in the 1970s.

Experts believe that power is shifting toward middle-income countries, while Western economies struggle, and both the US and China approach the limits of their global influence. China’s economic model is showing signs of strain, with debt levels around 300% of GDP and comparisons being made to Japan’s situation in the late 1980s.

Conflicts could worsen in the coming years

The report also warns that certain current conflicts could grow worse. Based on nine identified risk factors such as ethnic exclusion, foreign military support, and the political use of violence, four countries stand out: South Sudan, Ethiopia and Eritrea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Syria.

The Institute for Economics and Peace, which compiles the index, said: "Geopolitical fragmentation is a major driver of conflict today. The old global order is breaking down, and a new, more volatile one is emerging."

In Kinshasa, Romeo Limaka, a university professor, stressed that ordinary citizens primarily want the fighting to stop. “The people were going to be involved to learn the timelines and outcomes of this agreement with a view to peace, which is much more sought after because that is what is most important to the people: peace, the end of the war,” he said.

However, others fear the exclusion of key stakeholders could sow future unrest. Ngena Ewaenwa, president of EPPAF, voiced concern about armed groups and patriotic factions being left out of negotiations. “But what makes us regret is seeing how the Patriots, the Wazalendo group, the MF23, who fight day and night, were not involved in this agreement. The same goes for us, who are Patriots and carry patriotism in Africa,” he warned. “This is what worries us. So perhaps tomorrow, there could also be bad reactions to unforeseen issues.”

Opposition figures also called for greater transparency and participation. Pacifique Epenge, spokesperson for the Lamuka coalition, said the accord requires substantial revisions. “If there are agreements with the United States , economic agreements, we agree. But now, on this deal, there are many things to improve. There are many things to change. But not everything is bad, just as not everything is good,” he said. Epenge urged religious leaders to convene an inclusive national dialogue. “We want CENCO and ECC to quickly bring us together, including the revivalist churches, so that we can have a national and inclusive dialogue quickly,” he added

From the government’s side, officials emphasised the economic potential of the accord, particularly in the mining sector. Phillipe Undji, secretary of the ruling Sacred Union, said the agreement could finally bring development dividends to Congolese citizens if resources are properly managed. “We must now establish an economic framework that works on traceability: knowing where the minerals come from, where they are sold, at what price, with what interest, and what the DRC gains as the state that owns the minerals,” he explained.

The move follows rising concern over online fraud schemes operated from Poipet, a Cambodian town bordering Thailand’s Sa Kaeo province.

“This is a big step to protect Thai citizens from scammers,” said NBTC Deputy Secretary-General Trairat Viriyasirikul at a press conference.

Under the new regulations, telecom companies have been directed to terminate all data and voice services within 15 days in border areas, particularly near the Khlong Luek crossing. Internet access will be restricted in inland towns, with telcos also required to submit SIM card sales data every 15 days and justify any cross-border services with detailed documentation.

The decision comes in response to the growing threat of transnational cybercrime, which Thai police say has declined slightly since enforcement began. Officials, however, note limited cooperation from Cambodian authorities. “We have identified major scam hubs in Poipet, but Cambodia has done little to intervene,” said Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, inspector-general of the Royal Thai Police.

International concerns over Cambodia’s role

An Amnesty International report released on June 26 accuses Cambodia of allowing its territory to become a haven for organised cybercrime. The 18-month investigation revealed that many scam centres, of which 53 were identified in the country, operate like detention facilities, guarded with razor wire and armed personnel, with many victims trafficked from abroad, who have faced forced labour, torture, and abuse.

“Cambodia is allowing a billion-dollar shadow economy to flourish,” said Amnesty Secretary-General Agnes Callamard. The report estimates that Cambodia’s scam industry generates over $12.5 billion annually, nearly half of the country’s GDP.

One survivor, an 18-year-old Thai woman named Lisa, was promised a hotel job but instead was trafficked to Phnom Penh and beaten for trying to escape. “They told me they’d keep beating me until I stopped screaming,” she recalled.

Diplomatic fallout

Cambodia has remained silent on both Amnesty’s findings and Thailand’s internet shutdown. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Hun Manet set up a cybercrime task force, but its actions have been limited. Critics say powerful elites, including Cambodian politicians, are complicit in or benefit from the scam economy.

With over 200,000 people believed to be trafficked into scam networks across Myanmar and Cambodia, international pressure is mounting. The U.S. and China have both urged Phnom Penh to act, but few arrests or closures have followed.

Spearheaded by civil society groups like “Brothers and Sisters in Arms,” the initiative aims to ensure "that everybody will be safe".

According to a social activist, Shula Keshet, the abandoned bus station is "the only place in Israel that has a shelter against atomic bombs. It's in a very terrible place, by the way."

The shelter, originally opened during the Gulf War in 1991, can accommodate up to 16,000 people.

"Surrounding this place, [are] citizens and people, families, Israelis or non-Israelis, immigrant workers, asylum seekers, etc., [who] did not have any place to go," Shula Keshet added.

Protests erupted in Tehran and several other cities following Friday prayers, with demonstrators voicing support for their leaders, as broadcast by state television. One protester's banner read, “I will sacrifice my life for my leader,” about Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

According to Israeli authorities, 25 people have been killed in Israel due to Iranian missile strikes since June 13. In response, Iran reported on Sunday, June 15, that Israeli airstrikes have resulted in at least 224 deaths, including military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians.

Tensions between Iran and Israel soured as the two rivals engaged in a rare and the most intense confrontation in decades.

The conflict ignited on Friday, June 13, when Israel launched a large-scale air assault, just days ahead of a planned sixth round of nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States .

Iran, in a fierce response, launched successive waves of drone and missile attacks, with nighttime strikes illuminating the skies above Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

After an overnight missile attack launched by Iran on Israel from Saturday night (June 14) through to Sunday morning (June 15), 10 people were reported dead.

Iran's government, however, has confirmed the death of 78 people and 320 others battered with injured during the initial stage of Israel's attack.

The siege at Toulon involved armed individuals who fired upon the prison's entrance, with reports confirming the attackers displayed the acronym "DDPF," potentially linking the violence to prisoner rights activism or organized crime. Jessy Zagari from the FO Justice union provided information about the incident, underlining the serious risk to prison personnel and security within facilities.

The attack on Toulon was accompanied by incidents at other establishments such as Villepinte, Nanterre, Valence, and Aix-Luynes, where vehicle fires and vandalism occurred. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin pledged a robust government response, connecting the violence to ongoing anti-drug initiatives. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau echoed this declaration, committing to an unyielding approach to address these threats, as the National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor's Office investigates potential ties to organized crime and anarchist entities.

In light of these events, prison unions have intensified calls for enhanced security protocols to protect staff and facilities. The FO Justice union advocated for prison guards to have designated parking within prison grounds, indicating a pressing need for strategic measures in response to the potential destabilization of the prison system. The orchestrated nature of these attacks necessitates a reassessment of current security frameworks.

These critical incidents elevate the discourse surrounding prison safety in France and raise essential inquiries regarding the efficacy of criminal justice strategies. The outcomes of the investigations will significantly influence future security protocols and governmental actions against organized crime , making the upcoming weeks vital in shaping the trajectory of the French penal system.

10 poor countries paying the price for Donald Trump's tariff hikes

President Trump has extended his trade war to poorer nations like Lesotho, a southern African country known for textiles. Once dubbed the “denim capital of Africa,” it exported $235 million to the U.S. in 2024, supporting 30,000 jobs. Now, its denim exports face a steep 50% tariff. Read more here .

Money, lies, and power: How South Africans see Elon Musk

New research by Global South World reveals many South Africans view Elon Musk negatively. Analysing 82,300 online mentions and 572,000 likes, the study found common keywords like “money, disinformation, lies,” highlighting widespread criticism across media platforms. Read more here .

15-year-old Nigerian boy with autism breaks world record for largest canvas painting

Fifteen-year-old Nigerian artist Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke has entered the Guinness World Records for the largest solo canvas painting, spanning 12,303 square meters. It was unveiled on April 2 at Abuja’s Eagle Square, coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day. Read more here .

Asia

Taiwan eyes zero tariffs with US, pledges more investment

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has offered zero tariffs in talks with the U.S., pledging to remove trade barriers and boost U.S. investments. This comes after President Trump imposed broad import tariffs, including a 32% duty on Taiwanese goods—though semiconductors, a key export, are exempt. Read more here .

Philippines alarmed over China arrest of alleged Filipino spies

The Philippines has voiced concern over China’s arrest of three Filipinos for alleged spying, calling them ordinary citizens and possible retaliation for Manila’s anti-espionage efforts. Officials say the trio were former scholars with no military ties. Read more here .

Indonesia will not retaliate against Trump tariff, official says

Indonesia will not retaliate against President Trump’s 32% tariff, its top economic minister said Sunday, April 6. Instead, the country will seek diplomatic and negotiated solutions to the sweeping U.S. trade measures. Read more here .

Colombian rebel group steps towards peace, hands over war material

Colombian armed group Comuneros del Sur, a breakaway faction of the ELN, handed over weapons and signed two peace agreements with President Gustavo Petro on Saturday, April 5. At an event in Pasto, the group said the move showed its commitment to peace. Read more here .

Amazon shipping route for Brazilian soy disrupted by protests, poor roads

Indigenous protests and poor roads have disrupted Brazil’s soybean shipments via the Miritituba port, affecting major firms like Cargill and Bunge. Grain handler group Abiove said blockades have delayed about 70,000 tons daily, worth nearly $30 million. Read more here .

US official discusses Panama Canal-related audit with Panamanian minister

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha discussed the ongoing audit of Hutchison’s management of two key ports by the Panama Canal. While Panama runs the canal, the ports are operated by Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison, alongside others run by U.S., Singaporean, and Taiwanese firms. Read more here .

As of Friday morning, Farmasum Fuddang, an official with the Bokkos local government, reported that 48 bodies had been recovered — a significant increase from the initial count of 10. “Yesterday alone, we made a mass burial of more than 30 people,” Fuddang said.

A representative from the Red Cross confirmed the death toll had exceeded 40, noting that most victims were women and children .

Despite the peaceful coexistence of millions of Nigerians from various backgrounds, Plateau State remains a flashpoint for sectarian violence. Even in urban areas where Christians and Muslims live side by side, small-scale disputes have spiraled into large-scale massacres along community lines.

Maren Jushua, a resident of Manguna village, described the terrifying moment when gunmen stormed his village. “I and my other brothers managed to hide ourselves inside a small building behind our house. After they had gone, we came out to discover four people were killed,” he told AFP.

In neighbouring Daffo, John Mathew estimated the toll to be even higher. “The number of casualties would be more than 20,” he said.

Fuddang alleged on Thursday that the attackers were committing “ethnic and religious cleansing,” claiming they were heard speaking the Fulani dialect.

This assertion drew sharp criticism from a local herders' association. They denounced the characterization, arguing that Fulfulde — the formal name of the Fulani language — is widely spoken across Nigeria, including by criminals. In a statement, the Plateau chapter of the Gan Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria condemned the killings as “barbaric” but also contended that “herders should be the ones complaining about land grabbing” by farmers.

Military forces, alongside local vigilantes, reportedly engaged the attackers. “Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing criminals,” said the military. The state police spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment.

History of Conflict

Experts say the root causes of violence in Plateau are complex. With Nigeria’s population booming, the demand for farmland has intensified, while traditional grazing routes are shrinking, partly due to climate change . Land disputes, political rivalries, illegal mining, and poor governance all contribute to ongoing tensions, with impunity remaining a persistent issue.

A similar attack in late March on the village of Ruwi left 10 people dead. “Unidentified men came into the community shooting sporadically and killed 10 people,” said village leader Moses John at the time.

Reacting to the recent violence, Plateau State Information Commissioner Joyce Ramnap strongly condemned the killings and urged both religious and community leaders to “reinforce the message of peace , unity, and lawful engagement.” She also noted that “important arrests have been made,” though no details were provided.

Tensions in the region have been high since a brutal assault during Christmas 2023 left about 200 people dead in a mostly Christian community. Another deadly episode occurred in May last year in Wase, where around 40 people were killed and several homes burned.

As war rages on between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the dead are becoming just another part of the shattered landscape.

Civilians trapped in besieged neighborhoods speak of unbearable scenes.

“As we all know, these cemeteries in Tarb al-Shuhada are illegal due to the siege imposed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). We were unable to reach the legitimate cemeteries because of the ongoing clashes and the RSF blocking our access," said Al-Samani Mohammed Al-Samani, a volunteer gravedigger.

Officials said the air strikes are part of a broader military campaign aimed at neutralizing armed rebel groups accused of destabilizing parts of the country. The operations are reportedly focused on areas in the Upper Nile and Jonglei regions, where clashes between government forces and rebel factions have intensified in recent weeks.

The relative calm follows intense clashes between Congolese soldiers and the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group, which seized control of much of Goma on Sunday. Fighting has largely subsided, but uncertainty looms as M23 fighters gain ground in the mineral-rich region.

On Thursday, January 30, M23 vowed to push further west toward Kinshasa, the DR Congo capital, signalling potential escalation. The group's capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, marks a significant development in a region plagued by decades of violence involving multiple armed groups.

Rwanda, which denies backing M23, claims its primary objective is to eliminate fighters linked to the 1994 genocide. However, critics argue the neighbouring country is motivated by a desire to exploit DR Congo's vast mineral reserves, crucial for the global electronics industry.

"When I stepped on the landmine, I passed out," he recalled. "When I woke up, the sky and trees were spinning. From that instant, you are disabled; nothing is the same as before," he told the AFP.

Hla Han is one of hundreds of victims of landmines scattered across Myanmar, a deadly legacy of decades of conflict between the military and ethnic rebel groups.

According to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL), Myanmar recorded more landmine casualties in 2023 than any other country, surpassing war-torn Syria and Ukraine.

The ICBL's latest report revealed that at least 228 people were killed and 770 others injured by landmines and unexploded ordnance in Myanmar last year. The ongoing civil war, sparked by the military’s 2021 coup, has intensified the problem as new factions like the "People's Defence Forces" battle the junta, adding to the numerous mines laid across the countryside.

For families like Hla Han’s, the consequences are devastating. "Everything is different and difficult after my father lost his leg," said his daughter, Aye Mar. "When he was able to work, we didn't need to worry about anything."

In northern Shan state, 77-year-old Yar Swe Kyin urged her husband, Tar Swe Kyin, not to visit their fields on July 7, a day marked as inauspicious in the Burmese calendar. He insisted on checking their rented farmland and never returned.

Survivors like Hla Han emphasise the urgent need to clear landmines before displaced families can return safely.

“It is our children who are recruited by armed groups. Child soldiers are often children who are on the streets and who wander everywhere because they can’t afford to go to school,” she told GSW.

To tackle the problem, the DRC government has introduced free schooling for all children. Mwavita stressed that providing education is key to reducing the number of children who fall prey to armed groups.

“The Congolese government has opened the door to giving free schooling so that all these children can have access to school,” Mwavita said.

She also urged the international community to intervene and bring a resolution to the war.

“The war must end,” she said.

The ongoing conflict in the DRC has left millions displaced and has worsened the humanitarian crisis. According to Human Rights Watch, armed groups continue to recruit children, disrupt aid, and commit abuses in areas such as Goma. Efforts to stop these practices are complicated by ongoing violence and instability.

Watch the full interview :

She noted that attacks by Rwandan troops and the M23 rebel group are worsening the ongoing crisis in the country.

 “We simply ask that they go home and leave us alone because we have never had problems with them,” she told Global South World during the Crans Montana Forum in Geneva.

Mwavita further urged the United Nations and other countries to pressure Rwanda to withdraw its forces, to prevent further atrocities from their camp.

“Pressure from countries and members of the United Nations can also play a role so that Rwandans can leave our territory,” she said. “And because we don’t do it, we let a neighbouring country enter another country to go and commit massacres. The other states are supposed to help us find the solution in solidarity,” she added.

Eastern DRC has faced years of conflict, with millions displaced and critical resources plundered. The DRC government has also criticised multinational companies for profiting from illegally mined “blood minerals.”

The minister believes a united effort from the global community will help resolve the crisis and safeguard the rights of Congolese citizens.

Watch the full interview here:

While a peace deal was signed in 2022, the impact of the conflict remains evident in the region’s beekeeping industry. "The deforestation during the war has reduced bee production," Hiluf explained to the AFP, noting that the loss of trees and flowers has strained honey yields.

Shopkeepers also report challenges. "We receive only a small amount of honey, and the price has surged to 1,500 ETB for white honey,” said local shop owner Birhanu Araya. With fewer bees available, demand far exceeds supply, impacting prices and livelihoods.

According to apiculture researcher Goshu Welealeabzgi, an estimated 40 to 60% of Tigray’s bee colonies were destroyed during the war, dealing a severe blow to the region’s apiculture sector.

“The sounds of bullets may have stopped,” said Hiluf, “but the sound of misery remains, as there is still no justice.”

While in Chad, the Duchess travelled to Adré, a town located just 400 metres from the Sudanese border, which is currently receiving approximately 400 new refugees from Sudan every day.

The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, has forced nearly 11 million people to flee their homes in search of safety, creating one of the world’s most severe humanitarian emergencies.

During her visit, the Duchess met with humanitarian workers from organisations such as UNICEF and the UNHCR, who are on the frontlines providing aid and support to Sudanese refugees displaced by the ongoing violence. She also spoke with refugees, including women and children, who had recently escaped the conflict in Sudan.

Neighbouring countries, including South Sudan, have been significantly impacted by the refugee crisis. South Sudan alone has seen over 810,000 arrivals since the conflict began, placing immense pressure on its already limited resources.

In recent developments, Rwandan health officials have initiated a vaccination trial against the highly contagious Marburg virus, following an outbreak that has already claimed 12 lives. The Sabin Vaccine Institute has provided 700 doses of an experimental vaccine intended for frontline healthcare workers and contacts of confirmed cases. Currently, the situation is critical with 46 confirmed infections, of which 29 individuals are isolated. This outbreak, which commenced on 27 September, highlights the severe threat of Marburg, which can have a fatality rate as high as 88%. In response, Rwanda has enforced stringent measures, including suspending school and hospital visits, to mitigate further spread, My London reports.

Macron calls for withdrawal of Rwandan troops from DR Congo

French President Emmanuel Macron has advocated for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and M23 rebels from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This request arises amid ongoing conflicts that have persisted since 2021. During a summit held in Paris, Macron underscored the necessity to dismantle armed groups to restore the sovereignty of the DRC and suggested a resumption of the political process. Despite his call to action, Macron faced backlash for his lack of direct engagement with DRC affairs in his opening remarks, prompting a protest walkout by DRC President Felix Tshisekedi. The President condemned armed groups such as the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and stressed inclusive negotiations with all involved parties, reports News Central .

What is Marburg?

Rwanda's current outbreak—its first—was confirmed in late September, with 36 reported cases and 11 fatalities. The World Health Organization (WHO) has evaluated the outbreak risk as 'very high' at the national level, 'high' at the regional level, and 'low' on a global scale. According to Aljazeera , the specific source of the outbreak remains undetermined; however, transmission typically occurs through interaction with infected bodily fluids or contaminated environments. As there are currently no approved vaccines or treatments for the Marburg virus, Rwanda's initiation of clinical trials for potential vaccines is a noteworthy step towards combating this health crisis. Public health officials recommend stringent hygiene practices and minimising contact with symptomatic individuals as preventive measures.

Rwanda Open M25

Corentin Denolly has made headlines by reaching the men's singles final of the Rwanda Open M25 for the second consecutive week after Dutch player Max Houkes retired due to injury in their semifinal duel. Denolly, a past champion of the tournament, is set to compete against Austria's Maximilian Neuchrist in the final, scheduled for 6 October. Neuchrist secured his place in the final by defeating Zimbabwe’s Benjamin Lock with a score of 6-3, 6-3, and has already clinched the doubles title alongside Swiss partner Arthur Laborde, reports The New Times .

M23 rebel conflict

Additionally, Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe has highlighted a setback in negotiations regarding the M23 rebel conflict that has resulted in the displacement of over 1.7 million individuals in eastern DRC. The agreement in question aimed to address actions against the Hutu rebel group FDLR in conjunction with Rwanda scaling back its defensive posture. However, the Congolese foreign minister has rejected the proposal, insisting that both actions must occur concurrently. As reported by the Monitor , while military delegates have signed preliminary agreements, formal signing remains contingent upon Congo's approval, exacerbating the existing tensions between the two nations. Rwanda denies supporting the M23 group and has accused Congo of collaborating with FDLR forces.

The demonstrators carried placards and chanted slogans, demanding that the South African government cut all diplomatic ties with Israel.

They also called for the adoption of an anti-apartheid bill targeting supporters of Israel. This reflects the deep-rooted historical and moral stance of South Africa against apartheid-like policies.

The march further saw participation from various religious groups, civil rights organisations, and political figures.

Notably, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP Nazier Paulsen voiced strong support for the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement, urging South Africa to lead the global effort against Israel's policies.

"Boycotts, divesting and sanctions and we have to lead that our history dictates that South Africa has to lead the programme of boycotts, sanctions and divestment," Paulsen said.

MP Fadil Adams adding his voice to the calls also said "I'm here today because if you want to be a South African, you have to be part Palestinian. I'm here today because suffering anywhere is suffering everywhere. I'm here today because Palestine must be free. I'm here today because Zionism is an evil and it must end."

Lamiez Ebrahim, a prominent activist at the march, emphasised the importance of economic sanctions. "Hitting them where it hurts—money—is crucial. We've been boycotting their products for months, and it's making an impact," she stated.

South Africa in 2023 filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing it of committing genocidal acts against Palestinians in Gaza.

This case, officially titled "Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip (South Africa v. Israel)," was initiated on December 29, 2023.

Monday, October 7, 2024, marks a year since the Israeli-Palestinian war started. On this day in 2023, Palestine's militant group, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on revellers at the Nova Music Festival in Israel.

Hamas militants breached the Gaza border fence at 60 different points. According to Israeli reports, around 1,200 people were killed and over 251 were taken hostage during the assault.

The attack triggered an Israeli military response that has caused the deaths of over 41,000 Palestinians and widespread destruction so far.

The Nova Music Festival, a trance music event, was held on October 6 and 7, 2023, in Re'im, located in southern Israel.

Tanzania is confronting the persistent issue of human-wildlife conflict, particularly with elephants encroaching into agricultural and residential territories. Recent reports from the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) indicate that over 500 elephants have been successfully relocated back to their protected habitats using helicopter assistance from January 2023 to July 2024, reports Big News Network . Key affected areas comprise Lindi, Mara, Kilimanjaro, Morogoro, and Mbeya. In a bid to bolster wildlife conservation and better manage these conflicts, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism is set to recruit 1,187 new game rangers over the next two years.

Opposition leader abducted and murdered

In a tragic turn of events, the lifeless body of Ally Kibao, a senior official from Tanzania's opposition CHADEMA party, was discovered on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam following his abduction by armed assailants. His remains exhibited severe injuries, and acid had been inflicted upon his face. This incident potentially jeopardises the reformist reputation of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, particularly as Kibao was kidnapped just a day prior, as reported by Azer News . While a preliminary post-mortem examination has been conducted, a comprehensive autopsy report is anticipated shortly.

Diplomatic ties with Kazakhstan

Meanwhile, Kazakhstan has reinforced its diplomatic ties with Tanzania and Mozambique by appointing Yerkin Akhinzhanov as its ambassador to both countries, while he concurrently maintains his ambassadorial role in South Africa. According to KINA , Akhinzhanov brings an extensive diplomatic portfolio, having served as Kazakhstan’s deputy Permanent Representative to the OSCE and the UN, and Minister Counsellor in various missions including those in Norway and the US. He is an alumnus of the Alma-Ata Pedagogical Institute of Foreign Languages.

$40 million investment

In a significant economic development, South Korean steel giant POSCO is embarking on a $40 million investment initiative involving Tanzanian enterprise Black Rock Mining, staged over two phases. The initial phase aims to inject $9 million, thereby increasing POSCO's equity in Black Rock Mining from 10.1% to 19.99%. The subsequent funding phase is intended to facilitate the construction of Module 1 of the Mahenge Graphite Project and will confer long-term offtake rights for graphite concentrate produced from Module 2, reports Energy Capital & Power . According to Black Rock Mining CEO John de Vries, this agreement is pivotal for enhancing stakeholder confidence and ensuring funding transparency for the project's production.

Samia reacts to murder of opposition leader

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has publicly expressed her profound grief regarding the murder of opposition CHADEMA leader Mohamed Ali Kibao, urging for a meticulous investigation into the incident. She reinforced the notion that Tanzania is a democracy, where the right to life is paramount, asserting her government's firm stance against acts of violence. CHADEMA Chairman Freeman Mbowe disclosed that Kibao’s body exhibited signs of extreme brutality, including severe beatings and acid burns. The ruling party's Secretary for Ideology, Amos Makalla, extended his condolences and called for thorough police investigations. According to Daily News , this harrowing act has been met with widespread condemnation from various political factions, including ACT Wazalendo, highlighting the pressing concern of political violence in Tanzania. The Police Force is actively pursuing investigations, deploying specialist teams to enhance their investigative capabilities.

The spokesperson for Iran's foreign ministry, Nasser Kanani, categorically rejected the claims: "We strongly reject the accusations regarding Iran's role in exporting arms to one side of the war."

Kanani, however, emphasised that Iran maintains a neutral stance in the conflict and does not support any side through military means.

"We have clearly stated that we are not part of the war and conflict in Ukraine. We believe that the political solution is the best solution to end the current crisis in Ukraine," he added.

According to reports from US media last week, Washington suspects that Iran has supplied weapons to Russia for use in the Ukraine conflict, based on information from anonymous sources.

Meanwhile, EU spokesman, Peter Stano has said the union was aware of credible information to confirm Iran's involvement in sending arms to Russia.

"We are aware of the credible information provided by allies on the delivery of Iranian ballistic missiles to Russia. We are looking further into it with our member states and if confirmed, this delivery would represent a substantive material escalation in Iran's support for Russia's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine," Stano said.

"It seems to me we are at a fork in the road. We can either continue on our current path — a treacherous 'new normal' — and sleepwalk into a dystopian future. Or we can wake up and turn things around for the better, for humanity and the planet," Turk said in an AFP footage.

The UN rights chief also called out top economies that allow these tensions and conflicts to fester just for their selfish political gains.

"There are those politicians, amplified by some media outlets, who scapegoat migrants, refugees, and minorities, as we have seen, for example, around electoral periods in Austria, France, Germany, Hungary, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, to name a few. They capitalise on anxiety and despair, pitting one group against the other, and they seek to distract and divide. History has shown us that hateful words can trigger hateful actions."

The world in a decade has witnessed some of the most dangerous military takeovers, wars and media repression it has ever seen.

Beyond the Russian-Ukranian war which has lasted over two years (from February 24, 2022 - present), the Gaza Strip and West Bank residents have mourned and buried the dead since the beginning of 2024.

As of Thursday, August 15, Palestine's official health ministry reported 40,005 Palestinians dead and 92,401 wounded.

The conflict erupted on October 7 when Hamas militants crossed the border into Israeli territories. According to Israel, the militants killed over 1,200 individuals, predominantly civilians, and captured 253 people, taking them into Gaza.

Tedros also highlighted the collapse of Sudan’s health system, with 70-80% of health facilities no longer functioning. Outbreaks of cholera, malaria, dengue, and measles, combined with rising conflict-related sexual violence, have further worsened the crisis.

Expressing frustration, Tedros noted the lack of international attention, stating, "The situation in Sudan saddens me deeply, but I'm also saddened that the crisis is not receiving the global focus it deserves."

Since April last year, Sudan has been engulfed in conflict between the army and paramilitary forces, leading to tens of thousands of deaths and creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

Independent UN experts revealed that their fact-finding mission had uncovered "harrowing" human rights violations by both sides, warning these acts could amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity.  

Former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and nine others are under investigation for genocide and crimes against humanity during a mass movement against her government. The complaints accuse them of orchestrating a violent crackdown on student protesters, resulting in widespread casualties and human rights violations, NDTV reports. The investigation outcome will be communicated to the tribunal within seven days. Over 230 people died in the violence following the fall of the Hasina government, and a caretaker government has been formed to address administrative and political reforms.

Persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed hope that the situation in violence-hit Bangladesh will soon normalize. He noted that 140 crore Indians are concerned about the safety of Hindus and minorities there. According to BS , during his Independence Day speech, Modi emphasised India's commitment to peace and support for Bangladesh's development. His remarks come amid concerns over attacks on the Hindu community in Bangladesh, following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and flight to India on August 5 after weeks of unrest.

UN team's visit

A UN fact-finding team will visit Bangladesh to investigate atrocities committed during deadly protests that toppled the prime minister. The unrest left at least 300 people dead and thousands injured, with more than 11,000 people arrested. The new interim government, led by Nobel-winning economist Muhammad Yunus, has pledged to prioritise human rights and seek UN cooperation to rebuild the country. This will be the first time the UN has sent a fact-finding mission to investigate human rights abuses in Bangladesh. Former prime minister Sheikh Hasina is facing charges of murder, genocide, and crimes against humanity, Arab News reports.

Students attack Hasina supporters

Student protesters and political activists in Bangladesh attacked supporters of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to guard the student-led “revolution” and prevent them from reaching the house of her father, the assassinated independence leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. As reported by Aljazeera , Hasina's government was accused of human rights abuses and the UN is set to investigate the atrocities committed during the protests that led to her ouster.

Experts surprised by Bangladeshi 'revolution'

The recent Bangladesh crisis surprised India, highlighting the need to rethink its neighbourhood strategy. Experts advise India to develop its political, economic, and military power independently to become a credible force in the region. The Hindu also emphasises the importance of maintaining control over the Indian Ocean Region and collaborating with neighbouring countries to prevent intelligence failures in the future. The potential involvement of China in Bangladesh adds a new layer of complexity to the situation, requiring India to tread carefully in the coming months.

Myanmar has a long history of military rule, civil conflict, and political instability. The Tatmadaw seized power in a coup in February 2021, overthrowing the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

In recent months, the Tatmadaw has suffered significant defeats at the hands of ethnic armed groups and the People's Defence Force (PDF), a coalition of pro-democracy fighters. These groups have launched coordinated attacks, capturing military posts and strategic locations, particularly in Shan State. The losses have been described as the most serious setbacks for the junta since the coup.

According to the Myanmar Country Director at the United States Institute of Peace, Jason Tower, "What's clear is that the Chinese side wants the Myanmar military to come to the table, it wants to bring the EAOs to the table to try to de-escalate, but the Myanmar military is refusing to do that. And so that actually plays to the hand of the EAOs that see that this military is historically at a weak point."

Reuters also adds that Myanmar's junta has admitted to losing communications with senior officers at a major military base near the Chinese border, following rebels' claims of capturing the key regional army headquarters.

On July 25, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) claimed to have taken over a major military base and continued fighting to secure full control. On Saturday, August 3, the group posted photographs of its troops at the military stronghold in Lashio.

“It has been found that senior officials were arrested,” military spokesman Zaw Min Tun said on Monday, August 5.

Jason also suggested that the fall of the key regional army headquarters near the Chinese border "could mark the beginning of the end" for the junta that has been in power since the 2021 coup.

International buyers are excited to participate in Pakistan's upcoming carpet expo in October. The Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association is optimistic about the event's success and is seeking support from the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan. However, they expressed concern over Pakistan's declining share in the international handmade carpet market due to the lack of incentives, as reported by Dunya News .

PTI leaders granted bail in judicial complex vandalism case

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders Omar Ayub and Shibli Faraz, among others, have been granted bail in a judicial complex vandalism case. The anti-terrorism court confirmed their bail and also accepted the bail plea of PTI founder Imran Khan and Asad Umar. According to Dunya News , the case hearing has been adjourned until September 4 due to the absence of one of the accused.

Threats to top judge over ‘blasphemy’ accusations

The Pakistani government has vowed action against a religious-political party for issuing death threats to the country's top judge over blasphemy accusations. The threats came after the judge granted bail to a member of the minority Ahmadi community accused of blasphemy, Arab News reports. The government condemned the threats and stated that the state would not accept dictation from any group. Human rights groups warn that Pakistan's blasphemy laws are often misused to settle personal scores.

Tribal conflicts leave 42 dead

A tribal feud in northwestern Pakistan has resulted in 42 deaths and 183 wounded. The conflict between the Sunni Muslim Madagi and the Shiite Mali Khel tribes began over a land dispute and has reignited longstanding religious tensions. The violence has been condemned by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, which is calling for peaceful resolution through negotiations. Struggles to enforce the rule of law in the region continue despite its merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in 2018, reports BSS News .

Cabin crew remanded for smuggling Saudi currency

A female Pakistan International Airlines flight attendant has been placed on judicial remand after being caught smuggling foreign currency at an international airport in Punjab province. Customs officials detained her on Friday after discovering a large amount of Saudi riyals hidden in her socks during a body search. She was produced before a magistrate on Saturday, where officials sought her custody. According to News18 , a video of the incident has gone viral on social media. An FIR was filed against her by Customs officials who intercepted her while she was boarding PIA flight PK 203 from Lahore to Dubai, according to Dawn News on Monday, July 29.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi has acknowledged the challenges posed by regional and international conflicts. He reassures the nation that they will overcome this tough phase and continue to progress and develop. The president also reaffirms Egypt's support for the Palestinians' right to an independent state, Asharq Al-Awsat reports.

Release of detainees

Egypt released 79 detainees from pretrial detention in response to President Al-Sisi's engagement with political forces. The National Dialogue Board of Trustees thanked the president and other officials for their efforts and stated that this decision aims to create a positive environment for the National Dialogue. According to the Middle East Monitor , the board was formed in June 2022 and includes prominent figures from both the government and the opposition. This release follows Al-Sisi's call for national dialogue and previous releases of detainees.

Electrical capacity boost

Egypt plans to raise electrical capacity by 750 megawatts with two $700 million renewable energy projects by October 2024. The projects include a 250-megawatt wind energy farm and a 500-megawatt solar energy station. The country aims to generate 42% of its power from renewables by 2030, five years ahead of the initial target. Middle East Economy reports that the country has also partnered with foreign direct investments and the European Union to advance its renewable energy agenda.

Medical evacuation

The EU coordinated the first medical evacuation of 16 Palestinian children and their families from Egypt to Spain. Several EU countries offered assistance for medical evacuations. The EU has allocated €32.5 million to support health response in Gaza. EU officials emphasised the importance of safe medical evacuations for vulnerable patients, particularly children, in the ongoing health and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Egypt set for Paris Olympics

Egypt has sent its biggest team ever to participate in the Paris Olympics games starting on July 26. Speaking at a press event on Tuesday, Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Sobhy said Egypt had not hesitated in providing its athletes with the resources they needed to qualify for the Games and as a result, it had the biggest team of any Arab or African nation. The games start on Friday and run until August 11 in Paris, Arab News reports.

“We budgeted for the construction of the Museum this year. I came to know that the museum is important for keeping legacy and history or objects for the coming generation,” Kitab Biimo told reporters during a national event held in the nation’s capital, Juba.

While speaking of additional plans to learn from fellow African nations; Rwanda, Egypt, South Africa and Uganda on museum management, the government official said that construction of the country’s first museum would have begun earlier had the nation not been embroiled in a civil war.

“We failed to build the Museum all these years because of the conflict,” he said.

Accusations by South Sudan President Salva Kiir against former Vice President Riek Machar of an attempted coup set the nation on course in a protracted civil war spanning from 2013 to 2020, resulting in approximately 50,000 casualties and displacing 1.6 million people.

Currently, a mobile community-based national museum launched by the UN cultural agency UNESCO in 2014 serves as the South Sudan National Museum .

On May 16, 2024, South Sudanese rebel opposition groups and officials signed a peace deal at the Tumaini Initiative peace talks in Nairobi, Kenya. According to Global South World , the agreement was signed in the presence of senior government officials, diplomats, opposition groups, civil society members, and bilateral partners, aiming to establish a foundation for lasting peace in South Sudan.

Humanitarian aid talks

The Sudanese government and SPLM-North have begun talks in Juba to reach a ceasefire agreement allowing humanitarian aid delivery to conflict-affected areas. The South Sudanese government is mediating the sessions, and the goal is to facilitate the delivery of essential supplies to those in need. According to Radio Tamazuj , the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-North) delegation, led by Abdelaziz Adam al-Hilu.delegation emphasised the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, while Sudan's Defense Minister Major General Ibrahim Yassin highlighted the importance of a cessation of hostilities for aid delivery.

Justice delivery boost

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) organised a three-day workshop for justice actors in Gogrial West County, which focused on strengthening the criminal justice chain. The workshop addressed crucial topics such as criminal law principles, gender issues, and children's rights, and emphasized the importance of integrity and interconnectivity among justice actors. Participants shared their perspectives and committed to collaborative efforts to enhance the legal framework. As reported by Social News XYZ , the workshop provided practical solutions and emphasised the importance of applying the knowledge gained to serve communities with integrity. The High Court President advised justice actors to exercise their duties independently and without political interference. The workshop was commended for enhancing justice delivery.

Warnings of severe floods

On Thursday, May 16, South Sudan issued a warning of severe flooding as water levels in Lake Victoria, a source of the Nile, reached a record high. Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Pal Mai Deng, reported receiving information from neighbouring Uganda indicating that Lake Victoria's water levels have risen by 13.6 meters, the highest in the Nile Basin region in 128 years. According to a report by Xinhua , this surge has also elevated the water level in a dam in Jinja, Uganda. On Thursday, South Sudan issued a warning of severe flooding as water levels in Lake Victoria, a source of the Nile, reached a record high. Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Pal Mai Deng, reported receiving information from neighbouring Uganda indicating that Lake Victoria's water levels have risen by 13.6 meters, the highest in the Nile Basin region in 128 years. This surge has also elevated the water level in a dam in Jinja, Uganda.

Low forex trade

South Sudan's forex reserves are at a historic low, leading to inflationary pressures and a weakening currency. According to Zawya , declining oil revenues and geopolitical tensions are contributing to the economic woes. The country is struggling with high inflation and debt distress and faces challenges from the conflict in neighbouring Sudan. The upcoming general election is adding to the economic strain. The Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) has suspended the use of US dollars in the local economy to address the forex demand and inflation.