Discussions at the Global Security Forum 2016 at Bratislava, Slovakia were reflective of some of the most pressing contemporary global security concerns; differences between NATO and Russia, the rise of China, turmoil in Iraq and Syria etc.
In the ruckus raised by a growing number of caste-based groups, not earlier regarded as backward, for reservation quotas in government jobs and educational institutions, what is not being highlighted is the increasing success of how caste based discrimination is being reduced, even eliminated in some contexts. This must be mapped by social science researchers and policy makers, to help change the discourse of grievance.
Gateway House, along with Avid Learning and the U.S. Consulate in Mumbai recently hosted a panel discussion which revolved around the influence of the sea on civilisation and globalisation over a period of 10,000 years.
Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), hosted a Conference on South-South Cooperation in New Delhi on 10-11 March, 2016. The conference, represented by about 350 delegates representing 62 countries, demonstrated both the maturity of South-South Cooperation and the creative challenges that lie ahead.
The Latin American region already identifies with India through its pop culture, so India needs to capitalise on this goodwill to deepen its diplomatic relations with the region.
Saudi Arabia, Russia and other oil producers are trying to cap oil production to support prices. Such distortions are unlikely to work. India should be more concerned about the long term rise in oil prices due to falling investment in exploration and production – and should protect itself by acquiring oil and gas assets to cover its energy needs.
At a recent panel discussion on Calcutta hosted by Gateway House-Avid Learning for the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, the conversation centred on Calcutta’s cosmopolitanism, multiculturalism, and the parallels and non-parallels between Calcutta & Bombay.
The recent cyber attack on Ukraine’s power grids is indicative of the cyber space becoming the most useful tool for perpetuating geopolitical rivalries. Many countries are rapidly expanding their offensive cyber capabilities, and it appears the militarisation of cyber space is complete.
The outcome of the Iowa caucus has been stunning for both parties, where Donald Trump’s defeat as well as Hillary Clinton’s near defeat was not foreseen by anyone. All eyes have now turned to the New Hampshire primaries where Hillary Clinton beat Barack Obama in 2008, but went on to lose the Democratic nomination.
China’s stock market has tanked over 20% in January 2015. More than the fall in the stock market, it is the reaction of the Chinese authorities that suggests bigger problems.