Global Pulse #3

Global Pulse

September 2nd Week

ASIA PACIFIC

North Korea fires short-range ballistic missiles for second time in a week

Writer: Tamanna Yadav

North Korea launched short-range missiles towards its east coast. The timeline of the test is such that it took place days after North Korea’s foreign minister met Russia’s security official. Russia and North Korea have worked on strengthening ties, and analysts are speculating that the test could be linked with the illicit trade of weapons to Russia. However, Pyongyang has denied any such speculations. North Korea has been under United Nations sanctions since 2006, and the UN monitors have observed that North Korean missile fragments were found in Kharkiv in January. 

U.N. Sees ‘Human Rights Abyss’ in Myanmar as Military Kills Civilians

Writer: Delisha Rao

The United Nations has reported that thousands of civilians in Myanmar have been killed by the military since the 2021 coup, with hundreds dying from torture and neglect in junta prisons. Between April and June of 2023 alone, the military killed at least 2,414 civilians, including 334 children, through airstrikes and artillery attacks. The report, set to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council, highlights severe human rights violations, including widespread torture and sexual violence, amid Myanmar’s escalating civil war. The military now controls less than 40% of the country, facing mounting opposition from pro-democratic forces and ethnic militias.

AMERICAS

Crisis looms in Bolivia as anti-government protesters begin to march against President Luis Arce

Writer: Aditya Meharwade

Evo Morales, the former Bolivian President, in an attempt to overthrow the current government called on the citizens of the highland nation to march along a 200 km path on a highway from the southeast village of Caracollo to the capital city of La Paz.  

Morales appealed to farmers, miners, and peasants on Monday following an unprecedented televised speech by the current President, Arce late on Sunday. Arce accused his former mentor of trying to sabotage his administration and undermine democracy which has escalated a high-stakes power struggle which has pushed Bolivia to the brink. Around 26 were injured when supporters of Arce and Morales clashed in the small town of Vila Vila. Furthermore, anti-government protestors blocked roads in the capital, calling for Arce’s resign  no ation due to his mismanagement of the economy.   

Arce has accused Morales of bringing about the downfall of democracy as the latter seeks to unconstitutionally run for his fourth term. The nation witnessed a mass hysteria in the form of large-scale protests, marches, and blockades by coca cultivators, indigenous tribes, and workers.

US ex-president Donald Trump rushed to safety as second assassination attempt at golf course in Florida

Writer: Aniket Vijayvargiya

Former U.S. President and running candidate Donald Trump was rushed to a secure location after another assassination attempt was made on his life, coming two months after the first incident at his rally in Pennsylvania. Ryan Wesley Routh has been named as the suspect and has been arrested on charges of firearms offenses. This shooting, deemed an attempt by the FBI, marks the second such targeting of a presidential candidate during this election cycle. While the gunman is said to have never had a clear line of sight on Trump, it led to further debate regarding the existing policies of guns and the agenda being pushed  by the Republican Party. The political situation continues to deteriorate as the competition between Trump and Harris continues to the next stage, as polls still indicate a close competition between the two candidates with Harris in the lead, leaving the stage still open for either side to win and assume the leadership role.

AFRICA

European Union supports South Africa’s Green Hydrogen ambitionsWriter: Vanshika Saklani

The European Union (EU) has expressed strong support for South Africa’s ambitions to become a global leader in green hydrogen production. In collaboration with South Africa’s Ministry of Electricity and Energy, and the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition, the EU has committed to providing both financial and technical assistance to accelerate the country's green hydrogen development. This partnership aligns with South Africa’s “Just Energy Transition” plan, which aims to shift away from coal dependence and reduce carbon emissions, while also fostering economic growth and employment generation. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources, is seen as a key driver of sustainable development in South Africa, with the potential to attract investment, boost industrialization, and enhance energy security. The EU's support underscores the strategic importance of green hydrogen for both South Africa and Europe, as they work together to combat climate change and promote sustainable energy solutions.

Egypt and Eritrea explore a military cooperation deal amid regional tension.

Writer: Poorvanshi Tyagi

Egypt and Eritrea are to boost cooperation through a military agreement to forge closer ties. This accord would entail measures to protect and safeguard the Red Sea, which has been under scrutiny due to several attacks by Iran-backed rebels in Yemen. Sources state that Egypt is also discussing with Eritrea, which is mediated by Cairo, to end decades long tension between Asmara and ethnic rebels of Tigray, in the neighboring state of Ethiopia. Eritrea leaders also discussed the developments in the Horn of Africa and security measures to tackle the challenges being faced in the region.

EURASIA

Breton Resigns as EU Commissioner, Cites Von der Leyen’s 'Questionable Governance’

Writer: Rohan Shah

In September 2024, Thierry Breton, the French EU Commissioner for Internal Markets, resigned abruptly, citing European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's "questionable governance." Breton's resignation stemmed from von der Leyen's request to France to withdraw his candidacy for a second term, proposing a political trade-off for a more influential portfolio. This move highlighted the tension between the two, with Breton accusing von der Leyen of not discussing the decision with him directly. He further criticized the governance within the European Commission, which led to his immediate departure. France subsequently nominated Stéphane Séjourné as his replacement, aiming to secure a powerful EU role​. 

Azerbaijan’s ruling party on course for narrow victory exit polls show

Writer: Harman Kaur Minhas 

As per a poll conducted by the Oracle Advisory Group on Sunday, Aliyev’s New Azerbaijan party originally was to win 63 out of 125 seats down from 69 from the outgoing parliament. It’s a historic moment for them as for some places voting took place for the first time in 30 years in Nagorno-Karabakh since the government assumed control of the territory from ethnic Armenian Forces. Despite being accused of  having too much of a strong influence and hand on the people, the economic growth has been exponential under Aliyev supported by the oil and natural gas exports. The elections were fast tracked as Baku would be hosting the United Nations climate talks at COP29. In matters of the opposition for Aliyev, The Musavat Party, a major opposition formation, put forth 34 candidates for Sunday’s election, but only 25 of them were registered. Another opposition party, The Republican Alternative, has fielded 12 candidates.

WEST ASIA

Turmoil and social chaos takes over Lebanon, as Thousands hurt by exploding pagers across the nation.   

Writer: Rohan Shah

Lebanon is currently facing intense turmoil after a series of explosions from pagers and wireless devices rocked the nation, causing widespread chaos. Over the course of two days, thousands have been injured, with reports indicating severe injuries leading to surgeries  like amputations and eye removals due to the blasts. The explosions, many of which occurred during Hezbollah-related events, have further intensified an already unstable situation in the country, leading to speculation about Israeli involvement. As fears of escalating conflict rise, Hezbollah has vowed retaliation, while international powers, including the U.S. and the UK, have called for restraint​. 

UN General Assembly Votes Resolution on Ending the Occupation of Palestine:

Writer: Tamanna Yadav

The UNGA held a vote on a draft resolution on the Israel-Palestine conflict. The resolution was submitted by Palestine and backed by 40 countries. The resolution is based on the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding illegal presence in Palestinian territories and the practices implemented against the Palestinians. The draft resolution demands Israel to withdraw from Palestine within 12 months and recognize Palestine as an independent and sovereign state with the borders established in 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, emphasizes the responsibilities of all member states, ensuring Israel takes actions according to the mandate.