East Asia & the Pacific
Australia: Andrew Hastie quits shadow cabinet, citing disagreement over immigration policy
Shadow Home Affairs Minister and Liberal leadership aspirant Andrew Hastie has quit Sussan Ley’s shadow ministry, citing disagreement over immigration policy.
Burma: Myanmar junta intensifies efforts to defend key base on Magway-Rakhine border
The regime has stepped up its defense of the Nat Yay Kan, a key artillery and air defense base, following the recent capture of a nearby village by resistance forces.
China: Intel chip architect Su Fei returns to China after 20 years in the US
The award-winning engineer with a reputation for mentorship has taken up an endowed chair professorship at Tsinghua University.
Japan: Takaichi to become Japan’s first female prime minister
Japan is set to have its first female prime minister after Sanae Takaichi won the leadership election of the Liberal Democratic Party on October 4th.
Laos: Lao Prime Minister Visits US to Strengthen Economic Ties, Seek Tariff Reductions
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone concluded a high-level working visit to Washington D.C., United States, from 27 to 30 September, aimed at deepening economic cooperation and pursuing a reduction in tariffs on Lao exports, during which he met with senior US officials, business leaders, and key advocacy groups.
North Korea: Kim Jong Un inspects upgrades to country’s largest warship as deployment looms
North Korean leader vows to “punish enemy provocations” with new naval destroyer at event linked to ongoing weapons expo.
Europe & Eurasia
EU: EU rolls out $1.1 billion plan to ramp up AI in key industries amid sovereignty drive
The EU announces a billion-dollar initiative to bolster domestic AI innovation, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign tech and enhance economic sovereignty.
EU: EU needs broad response to hybrid warfare threats, von der Leyen says
Ursula von der Leyen calls for a unified EU strategy to confront hybrid threats like cyberattacks and disinformation, citing new challenges to European security.
EU: MEPs call for stronger enforcement of digital regulation
Members of the European Parliament urge tougher oversight of tech giants, warning that EU digital laws risk ineffectiveness without stricter enforcement.
Europe: Europe’s ageing burden far less than US or China
A new demographic study finds Europe better positioned to manage aging populations than other global powers, easing fiscal concerns about the future.
Albania: No One’s Above the Law: Albania’s Anti-Graft Prosecutor Leaves Formidable Legacy
As Albania’s top anti-corruption prosecutor steps down, she reflects on years of battling entrenched political corruption and the fragile victories of reform.
Germany: Germany to allow police to shoot down drones
Germany plans new legislation empowering police to neutralize rogue drones, reflecting growing concerns over security and privacy in European airspace.
Hungary: Hungary fails in bid to remove immunity from three MEPs
The European Parliament rejects Hungary’s attempt to strip immunity from opposition MEPs, deepening concerns over rule of law tensions in the EU.
Prime Minister Tusk defends Poland’s refusal to extradite a Ukrainian suspect, reflecting ongoing tensions between Poland, Ukraine, and EU partners.
Poland: Number of fully electric passenger vehicles in Poland passes 100,000
Electric mobility surges in Poland, marking a major milestone for the country’s green transition and alignment with EU climate goals.
Romania: Romania Warned by EU Over Banned Pesticide That Poisons Bees
The EU cautions Romania over its continued use of harmful pesticides, underscoring tensions between agricultural practices and environmental protection.
Russia: ‘For the Defense Ministry, People Are Garbage’
Meduza reports on Russian soldiers facing prosecution for desertion, exposing systemic neglect and abuse within the Russian military apparatus.
Russia: Prominent St. Petersburg architect reportedly shot in front of 10-year-old daughter
A shocking killing in St. Petersburg highlights social volatility and trauma in post-war Russia, reportedly linked to a returning veteran.
Ukraine: Russia’s strikes on Ukraine’s gas will reverberate across Europe
Russia’s latest attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure raise fears of renewed market instability and energy insecurity across Europe.
Near East
Gaza: Israel and Hamas Reach Deal on Hostage and Prisoner Exchange
Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement for the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a long-awaited breakthrough that could point toward an end to the two-year war in Gaza.
Qatar-US: Hegseth announces Qatar will build air force facility at U.S. base in Idaho
The agreement will allow Qatari pilots to receive training alongside U.S. soldiers. There are no foreign military bases in the U.S., but some foreign militaries do maintain a presence for training. The Singaporean Air Force also has a presence at the Mountain Home base.
Sub-Saharan Africa
CAR: President’s Rival Invited Back from Exile Then Detained
Dominique Désiré Erenon, leader of the opposition party the March for Democracy and the People’s Salvation (MDSP), who has lived in exile in France for the past three years, has promptly been arrested upon return following President Touadéra’s call for the return of all Central Africans in the diaspora.
Chad: Lawmakers Move on Bill Allowing Unlimited Presidential Terms
A constitutional reform, proposed by the Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) of President Mahamat Idriss Déby in 2021, that would extend the presidential term from five to seven years with no limit on renewals has been fast-tracked by lawmakers.
Kenya: Ruto Minister Hails End to Kenya’s ‘Misadventure’ in Haiti After UN Vote
Former Senior Economic Adviser to the President, Moses Kuria, criticizes the use of hundreds of Kenyan soldiers deployed to Haiti as a “misadventure” and blames former US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman for Kenya’s involvement. He welcomes the UN Security Council decision to replace the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti with a Gang Suppression Force (GFS).
Kenya: What’s Next for Kenya Haiti Mission After UN Vote?
After a UN Security Council decision to replace the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti with a Gang Suppression Force (GFS), questions arise as to whether the hundreds of Kenyan soldiers deployed to Haiti will remain there or join the new force.
Sudan: RSF drone strike kills dozens in Sudan’s war-ravaged el-Fasher
At least 57 people, including 22 women and 17 children, were killed when Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces attacked a displacement shelter in the besieged city of El Fasher in North Darfur state, according to a Sudanese medical advocacy group.
Sudan: ICC Convicts First Darfur Militia Leader for War Crimes
The International Criminal Court in a landmark victory convicted Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, Janjaweed militia leader found responsible for the crimes of atrocities committed in Darfur, Sudan in 2003. Despite his defense of “mistaken identity”, he was found guilty of crimes against humanity and war crimes on 27 counts.
Tanzania: Ex-Ambassador and Government Critic Abducted, Family Says
Humphrey Polepole, former Tanzanian Ambassador to Cuba, who stepped down due to non-alignment with the administrations disrespect of “justice, the rule of law, and constitutional principles”, has allegedly been kidnapped at his home in Dar es Salaam.
Eswatini: Accepts 10 US Deportees Despite Legal Challenge
Civil society and rights groups are shocked at the actions of the Eswatini government taking in 10 deportees from the U.S. amid the ongoing legal case against the deportations, arguing of “executive over-reach”.
Madagascar: President Names Army General as New Prime Minister
Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina replaces former Prime Minister Christian Ntsay, who was dismissed in response to ongoing demonstrations against poor country conditions, with army General Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo.
South Africa: Gaza Flotilla’s SA Activists ‘In Good Health’, Release Procedures Under Way – – DIRCO
The South African activists who took part in the Global Sumud Flotilla in an attempt to break the blockade, deliver aid to Gaza, and were subsequently detained by Isreal have been confirmed to be in “good health and high spirits” by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco).
Côte d’Ivoire: Bans Protests Ahead of Presidential Election
Amid the country’s decisions to bar top opposition leaders from participating in the October 25 elections, like Former president Laurent Gbagbo, Côte d’Ivoire has prohibited supporters who planned to protest from such actions.
South & Central Asia
Afghanistan: Dozens killed in Pakistan-Afghanistan clashes
Tensions have risen after Islamabad demanded the Taliban take action against militants who have stepped up attacks in Pakistan, saying they operate from havens in Afghanistan. The Taliban denies that Pakistani militants are present on its soil.
Kazakhstan: Tokayev proposed that Turkic states create a cybersecurity council.
Tokayev proposed that Turkic states collaborate and create a cybersecurity council within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) framework, to coordinate efforts around cybersecurity, address threats, and strengthen digital security in the region overall.
“The Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic approved amendments to regulate the temporary ban on the export of oil and petroleum products outside the customs territory of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), …applying “to the export of oil (EAEU TN VED code 2709) and petroleum products (EAEU TN VED code 2710) by road and rail, with the exception of fuel oil and heating oil produced by domestic oil refineries.”
Pakistan: Pakistan’s Special Envoy Holds Talks with Chinese and Russian Diplomats on Afghanistan
“Pakistan’s special envoy for Afghanistan held talks with senior Chinese and Russian diplomats on regional security, counterterrorism, and efforts to stabilize Afghanistan through coordinated cooperation.”
Pakistan: Pakistan, Russia, China, Iran Call for Afghanistan Free of Terror and Interference
“Pakistan, Russia, China, and Iran met in Moscow to discuss ensuring Afghanistan’s independence, stability, and freedom from terrorism and external interference through joint regional cooperation.”
Uzbekistan: Uzbekistan granted rights to extract hydrocarbons in Afghanistan
Uzbekistan granted licenses by Afghan (interim) government for hydrocarbon exploration and extraction under a 25-year contract with Uzbek company Eriell KAM. This project signifies the emergence of expanded bilateral energy cooperation with promising economic benefits and increased regional transportation opportunities.
Western Hemisphere
Mexico: Mexico president vows thorough investigation into the killing of 6 civilians by soldiers
President Claudia Sheinbaum has ordered a legal investigation after members of the Mexican army fired at a vehicle on the highway connecting Ciudad Mante and Tampico; the army reported that the vehicle had attempted to ram them. The soldiers have been relieved of duty while the Attorney General’s Office investigates alongside the military’s justice system as to whether the use of firearms was in line with legally outlined conditions.
Nationals from Barbados, Belize, Dominica, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines will no longer “be limited to temporary entry of up to six months, or to work under the CARICOM skills regime,” nationals will be granted indefinite stays with access to all public services. Other members of CARICOM will continue to operate with no change.
Haiti: UNICEF warns that number of children in Haiti displaced by violence has nearly doubled
UNICEF has reported that the number of displaced children has risen to 680,000. The report indicates that about 6 million Haitians are effectively cut off from humanitarian aid as gang violence leads to travel limitations, school closures, and mass recruitment of children.
Jamaica: Jamaica imposes local curfews after two deadly shootings rattle the island
A curfew was out into effect in Jamaica after two shootings, one occurring in Kingston and the other just outside of Linstead; motivations for the shootings have not been released. Police commissioner Kevin Blake has urged citizens to support efforts to bring the shooters to justice.
Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico police probe killings of 5 men tortured and left naked
Authorities are investigating the killing of 5 men after their bodies were found naked and with signs of torture. Three bodies were found in Carolina, and the other two in a San Juan neighborhood. While not yet conclusive, authorities suspect that the deaths were related to drug trafficking.
Nicaragua: UN urges Nicaragua to account for over 120 people forcibly disappeared since 2018
The United Nations has urged Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega to formally account for mass disappearances reported to have been occurring in Nicaragua since 2018. Experts in the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances believes the number may be higher than the current 120-recorded missing people. The government has, thus far, not responded.
Nicaragua: Nicaragua: Power concentrated, rights denied
The number of forced expulsions, denials of reentry, and arbitrary detentions have steadily risen in Nicaragua. As recent constitutional reforms have stripped safeguards and centralized power in the presidency, the government has increased its suppression of critical voices and weakened judicial authority, leading to growing rates of human rights abuses.
Panama: Panama’s denial of workers’ right to strike questioned
Members of international organizations throughout the Americas have condemned actions taken by the Panamanian government to suppress workers’ right to strike through associations with unions. Leaders have accused the government of forming a pact with business leaders and the labor ministers to limit collective bargaining.
Honduras: Honduras: Meet the Candidates 2025
A nationwide election for the presidency, congressional seats, parliamentary seats, and hundreds of mayoral positions will occur on November 30. Voters appear most concerned with issues like job creation to stimulate the economy, security against increasing rates of organized crime, and public corruption. The presidential candidates include Nasry ‘Tito’ Asfura, Rixi Moncada, and Salvador Nasralla.
Latin America: Seven elections will determine the future of Latin America
As election season continues across several LatAm nations, it is becoming increasingly likely that the region will experience a general shift away from left-wing parties toward those on the right-wing resulting from external pressure from US policies, economic shortcomings, and rising organized crime.
Brazil: ‘Who’s the next Bolsonaro?’ Brazil’s far right faces a reckoning
Jair Bolsonaro’s upcoming trial and his previous barring from holding office until 2030 have left the right-wing of Brazil without a clear leader. While multiple individuals have risen up, including some members of the Bolsonaro family, few have been able to garner the level of support necessary to win in an election against President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
Ecuador: Alleged assassination attempt on Ecuador’s Noboa exposes growing rural unrest
President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador avoided injury in an attack on his convoy; the government has labeled the attack as an assassination attempt. CONAIE, the indigenous federation, has declared that national protests are in response to police and military brutality against citizens.
President Nicolas Maduro has announced his willingness to declare a state of emergency following multiple U.S. strikes against Venezuelan boats. While the US government claims that the boats were connected to drug trafficking operations, Maduro has denied the claim. A state of emergency would provide Maduro with “special powers” related to Homeland Security.
Venezuela: Venezuela on edge over Trump regime change whispers: ‘If it does happen we are ready’
Venezuela has begun preparations for the potential of direct U.S. military intervention in the country, undergoing practice responses and rehearsal evacuations. While many officials initially doubted the possibility of direct intervention US strikes in Iran have alarmed Venezuelan leadership. Though the government is committed no peaceful resolution of tensions, Maduro has made it clear that Venezuela will defend itself.
The SHU World Review is produced by the Student Research Assistants of the DiploLab at the School of Diplomacy and International Relations at Seton Hall University. Back issues are available in Seton Hall’s repository.