Portugal Election: Corruption Scandals and Economic Hardship Fuel Rise of Populist Right
Portugal faces a pivotal election amidst corruption scandals and economic struggles.
Traditional parties, Socialist and Social Democratic, tainted by graft allegations, face waning trust.
Public discontent fueled by low wages, high living costs, housing crisis, and healthcare shortcomings.
Populist party Chega gains momentum, capitalising on public frustration with promises of change.
With Chega potentially becoming the third-largest party, political landscape veers right.
Mainstream leaders promise reform, while Chega's leader, Andre Ventura, courts controversy with nationalist stances.
Read Ahead At: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/socialist-party-ap-portugal-western-europe-lisbon-b2510110.html
Erdogan's Bid to Reclaim Istanbul in Crucial Elections Hangs on a Knife-Edge
Millions of Turks are voting to determine the leadership of major cities, particularly Istanbul, where President Erdogan seeks to regain control from the opposition.
Istanbul, a key economic and social hub, was won by the opposition in 2019, marking a significant blow to Erdogan's electoral dominance.
The outcome in Istanbul is viewed as a pivotal test for both Erdogan's ruling AK Party and the opposition's ability to challenge him in future presidential elections.
Ekrem Imamoglu, the current mayor of Istanbul and Erdogan's main rival, stands as a significant contender in the election, with the potential to shape national politics.
Control over Istanbul holds immense political and economic significance, influencing Turkey's national dynamics and global standing.
Despite Erdogan's personal efforts to win back Istanbul, the race remains fiercely contested, with uncertainties surrounding potential successors and party unity.
Read Ahead At: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-68663417
Ireland to Intervene in South Africa's Genocide Case Against Israel Over Gaza Conflict
Ireland announces intention to intervene in South Africa's genocide case against Israel regarding the Gaza conflict, signalling deep concern.
Foreign Minister Micheal Martin emphasises Hamas's actions as blatant violations of international humanitarian law, including hostage-taking and targeting civilians.
Martin highlights dire conditions in Gaza, with half the population facing imminent famine, urging the international community to act.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) previously ordered Israel to refrain from acts that could constitute genocide after South Africa's accusation.
Israel rejects the genocide allegation, asserting it has taken measures to prevent civilian casualties, while Ireland's intervention seeks to present its interpretation of the Genocide Convention.
Read Ahead At: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/3/28/ireland-to-intervene-in-south-africa-genocide-case-against-israel-at-icj
Tiny Greek Island of Gavdos Grapples with Surge in Migrant Arrivals
Gavdos, one of Greece's smallest islands with a population of fewer than 70 people, faces a sudden influx of migrants arriving by overcrowded boats from Libya.
The island's limited infrastructure is strained as it struggles to accommodate the arrivals, with only basic amenities like a school, bakery, and a few mini-markets.
Gavdos, located at Europe's southernmost tip, has seen a surge in arrivals, with over 800 migrants landing on its coast in just a few months, mainly young men exhausted from the perilous sea journey.
Concerns mount over the emergence of a new smuggling route in the Mediterranean as the number of arrivals spikes, prompting the EU to seal a deal with Egypt to stem migration flows.
Despite the recent lull in arrivals following the EU-Egypt deal, coordination and support from Greek authorities and the EU are deemed crucial to manage the situation effectively.
Read Ahead At: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/mar/27/how-people-smugglers-set-sights-on-tiny-greek-island-gavdos
Germany, EU Launch Work on 'New Marshall Plan' for Ukraine
Germany and EU leaders met with experts to discuss rebuilding Ukraine, similar to the Marshall Plan that helped Europe after WWII.
The cost of rebuilding Ukraine is estimated at 350 billion euros so far.
Ukraine needs immediate help to repair infrastructure damaged by Russia.
Leaders are looking into using seized Russian assets to fund the rebuilding effort.
Read Ahead At: https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-germany-berlin-western-europe-business-50fa5ca7ee97eab5bfde1869d78f19ad
IS Carries Out Deadly Attacks Across Europe
The Islamic State (IS) jihadist group carried out the deadliest attacks in Moscow (137 dead) and Paris (130 dead).
IS also claimed responsibility for attacks in Brussels (35 dead), Manchester (22 dead), and Catalonia (16 dead).
France was hit particularly hard with attacks in Paris, Nice (truck attack, 86 dead), and Brussels (coordinated with Paris attack).
The attackers included both local radicals and those with ties to international IS networks.
Read Ahead At: https://m.economictimes.com/news/defence/deadliest-is-attacks-in-europe/articleshow/108767214.cms
Western Leaders Denounce Putin's "Illegal" Election Victory, While Allies Offer Congratulations
Western leaders, including those from the EU, UK, France, and Germany, condemn Putin's election victory as "illegal" and lacking in democratic credibility.
Ukrainian President Zelensky dismisses the election as illegitimate, accusing Putin of seeking to maintain power at any cost.
Allies such as China, Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba congratulate Putin, emphasising support and trust from their respective leaders.
Critics highlight the exclusion of opposition candidates, repression of civil society, and control of media as evidence of Putin's authoritarian rule.
Norway condemns the organisation of voting in occupied parts of Ukraine as a violation of international law.
Read Ahead At: https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/world-news/western-leaders-dismiss-putins-illegal-poll-victory/articleshow/108592526.cms
Germany and Poland Refuse to Send Troops to Ukraine as Macron Faces Criticism Over Ground Troop Suggestion
Germany, Poland, and NATO confirm they won't send troops to Ukraine despite escalating conflict with Russia.
Kremlin warns of inevitable conflict if NATO sends combat troops to Ukraine.
French President Macron faced criticism for suggesting the possibility of ground troops, clarifies discussions focused on de-mining and military training operations.
European countries express support for Ukraine through bilateral agreements, aid initiatives, and procurement of weapons.
Albania Positions Itself as India's Gateway to Western Balkans, Eyes Stronger Economic Ties
Albania, aiming to become India's entry point to the Western Balkans region, emphasises its growing economy and cultural attractions.
Foreign Minister Igli Hasani highlights Albania's strategic location and its potential as a link between India and the European Union.
The country boasts a significant rise in tourism, attracting 50,000 Indian visitors in 2023, and offers opportunities for Indian investors in various sectors such as IT, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Plans for deeper bilateral ties include the opening of diplomatic missions in Tirana and New Delhi, with both countries recognizing linguistic and cultural connections.
Read Ahead At:
News bits collected and drafted by:
Deepanshi Pathak (BA IR, 2nd year) (Region Head)
Published By: Varsha Das (BA IR, 2nd year)
