In this week’s Progressive Pulse…The global system is experiencing dramatic transformations marked by declining US hegemony and rising multipolarity. Key developments include Trump’s confrontational trade policies, China’s technological advancement initiatives, escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and Europe’s anxiety over Ukraine policy shifts. The Global South is increasingly asserting independence, while economic challenges persist worldwide. Progressive movements are highlighting wealth inequality, environmental concerns, and workers’ rights. BRICS expansion and Belt and Road initiatives continue reshaping international relations. Climate change and AI governance emerge as critical global challenges requiring coordinated responses.

International

Global power dynamics shifting as US hegemony declines. IMF voting power heavily favors Global North. Trump’s policies affecting global trade and security. Growing multipolarity with BRICS expansion. Debates over AI governance and economic inequality. Calls for reformed world order.

China

Focus on high-quality development during Two Sessions. Strong emphasis on technological advancement, especially in AI. Tensions with US over trade and tariffs. Rural revitalization and job creation prioritized. Wang Yi signals more assertive foreign policy stance.

South Asia

Limited coverage, focusing on domestic issues in India including arrests of activists and economic challenges. Bhutan developing “Mindfulness City” to address brain drain. India-China relations evolving.

Southeast Asia

Natural disasters in Indonesia displacing thousands. Singapore addressing immigration and cybersecurity concerns. Regional focus on economic development and technological advancement. Myanmar planning elections.

East Asia

Tensions over US-South Korea military drills. South Korean political drama with President Yoon’s arrest warrant cancelled. Japan fighting major wildfire. TSMC’s major US investment announced.

West Asia (Middle East)

Ongoing Gaza crisis during Ramadan with severe humanitarian impact. Israel facing criticism over military actions. Regional tensions escalating. Syria-Israel tensions increasing. Palestinian resilience despite challenges.

Russia

Limited coverage focusing on Putin’s strategy in Ukraine and joint naval exercises with China and Iran.

Europe

Growing anxiety over US stance on Ukraine. Internal divisions over defense spending and migration. Economic challenges persist. Concerns about far-right movements and democratic backsliding.

Africa

Focus on independence and sovereignty, particularly in West Africa. Kenya facing political tensions. Ghana celebrating independence. Debates over GMO foods.

North America

Trump’s policies threatening economic stability and federal workforce. Growing concerns about social services cuts. Canada experiencing political transition with Mark Carney’s victory.

Latin America and The Caribbean

Mexico’s President Sheinbaum negotiating with US over tariffs. Regional political developments in Honduras, Brazil, Colombia. Panama Canal disputes continuing.

Oceania

Limited coverage focusing on Australia’s strategic positioning between US and China.

Miscellaneous