International Relations and Policy – Page 3

Whose History Is It Anyway? Cultural Heritage and the New Diplomacy

ultural heritage has become a powerful tool in global politics, shaping diplomacy, national identity, and international influence. Nations leverage historical artifacts, language, and historical narratives to assert sovereignty, reclaim lost treasures, and justify political actions. The repatriation of looted artifacts, such as the Benin Bronzes and Parthenon Marbles, is not just about justice but also…
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The Great Digital Firewall: Tech Decoupling in a Post-Trump Trade War

By: Tarinee Gupta Abstract The ongoing technological separation between the United States and China, intensified by Donald Trump’s 2024 re-election campaign, has reshaped global digital commerce. Stricter U.S. export controls, scrutiny of Chinese tech firms, and laws like the “U.S.-China AI Decoupling Act” have accelerated China’s push for self-sufficiency, forcing U.S. allies to navigate economic…
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Geopolitical Crossroads: Panama’s Strategic Decision

After the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Panama, earlier this month, the Central American nation pulled out from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on February 3, 2025. US President Donald Trump and Rubio had warned Panama that the US would be compelled to take tough measures, if the Central American nation…
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Handcuffs and Deportation: The US-India Immigration Controversy

On February 5, 2025 a US C17 military aircraft with 104 Indian nationals, who were illegal immigrants, landed in Amritsar. Amongst the deportees were 19 women and 13 minors. It is likely that 487 Indian nationals are to be deported from the US soon. India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri in a press conference, on February 7,…
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The Fabric Of Diplomacy: Designs Shaping Global Image

This article aims to talk about the complexities hidden underneath the layers of clothing and highlight the symbolic representation of clothes. It explains how fashion diplomacy, is used to convey the power of designing. The article uses traditional historical examples and several modern-day examples to prove that designs play a pivotal role in moulding global…
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Infrastructure Development and Trade Potential: The Case of India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) marks a significant shift in US and EU strategies for Middle East trade, aiming to enhance connectivity and economic integration. It will feature a railway line improving ship-to-rail transit, offering India direct access to European markets. Pledged collaborations at the G20 summit in 2023 include enhancing trade infrastructure. The…
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The Complexity of India’s Military Industrial Complex

India’s journey towards military self-reliance has been shaped by its historical, financial, and geopolitical challenges. Initially dependent on first-world countries for defence technology due to financial constraints and bureaucratic inefficiencies, India gradually transitioned towards self-reliance. The 1962 Sino-Indian conflict and the 1971 war with Pakistan were pivotal moments that highlighted the need for indigenous defence…
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A New Chapter?: Exploring the Potential of India-Pakistan Relations Post-Jaishankar’s Visit

By Prof. Tridivesh Singh Maini Introduction External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan, to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Islamabad on October 15-16, 2024, drew attention for several reasons. Most importantly, this was the first visit by an Indian Foreign Minister to Pakistan after nearly nine years. In December 2015,…
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Nation Branding in the UAE: The Case of Dubai

This paper explores the evolution and impact of nation branding, with a focus on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and its flagship emirate, Dubai. Dubai’s strategic positioning as a global leader in various sectors underscores the significance of nation branding in today’s interconnected world. Despite Abu Dhabi’s dominance in oil resources, Dubai’s diverse economic base…
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Sudan’s Fractured Military: Rivalry Between SAF and RSF

Sudan is undergoing a transition from the long-serving rule of President Omar al-Bashir to a democratic government. However, this process has been characterised by tension and instability. This article explores the fractured military landscape of Sudan, with a focus on the rivalry between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since…
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Turmoil in West Africa: Eroding Influence of ECOWAS

The West Africa subregion, tucked between the Sahara Desert in the north and the Gulf of Guinea in the south, is in cataclysm. The past three years have witnessed a coup epidemic, the last straw to the semblance of civilian government ensuing with the coup in Niger. In total, 7 successful military coups occurred -…
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Can Iran-US Ties Witness Any Improvement Under Masoud Pezeshkian’s Presidency?

ran-US ties have witnessed a steady deterioration since the US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal/Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, during the Donald Trump Administration. The Biden Administration made attempts to reduce strains and revive the JCPOA, but Iran’s nuclear program – in violation of the terms of the JCPOA/Iran nuclear deal…
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