A tribute to Attenborough
British actor and film maker Richard Attenborough, director of the film 'Gandhi’, passed away on August 24th. A tribute by Rajni Bakshi, Senior Gandhi Peace Fellow at Gateway House
Australia in the dock
Like European countries, Australia too has seen an influx of asylum seekers over the last decade. However, domestic political compulsions have seen the new Australian government send back the refugees to their turmoil ridden countries. Considering international law and its responsibilities Canberra needs to revisit its refugee policy
Change EU’s refugee policy
A refugee policy that absolves more capable and resource rich nations of any responsibility towards transnational asylum seekers is archaic and has lived beyond its time. Keeping in mind the EU's receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize for advancing causes of peace, reconciliation, democracy and human rights, it is incumbent upon it to set new standards and reform its refugee policy
A better package for Africa
China's investment in Africa holds both positive and negative lessons for India. India can learn from Beijing's success at courting African leaders, but should focus on investments that better develop local African communities.
Latin America slowdown
Latin America’s economic growth has slowed down in 2014. But the region’s fundamentals are relatively strong, and have the resilience to absorb external shocks and increase growth in the coming years. However, Argentina and Venezuela face continuing uncertainty and deterioration.
A confusing stand on Gaza
Historically, India has supported the Palestinian cause but today, shares strong diplomatic relations with both West Bank and Tel Aviv. India's vote at the UNHRC has provoked much debate within the country as it marks a distinct shift in the government's stand from a few weeks ago when it was reluctant to even discuss the Gaza crisis in Parliament
A better partner: Indonesia?
The recent election in Indonesia gives India a chance to evaluate the many points of comparison between the two diverse and vibrant democracies. Both will face similar challenges, and so Indonesia may be a better parallel as well as partner than China – the usual model cited for development
The dangers of tightrope walking
Eastern Europe has seen tensions rise, increasing violence and a hardening of stands. Only the softening of the stark “either/or” choice currently being demanded by western powers as well as Russia will put an end to the precarious tightrope walking of east European governments and prevent their citizens from becoming victims of increased regional instability
Whither Libya!
India should continue to assist Libya in its journey towards becoming a fully functional democracy. The two nations, which share deep historical ties, can come together on key issues and build a relationship of mutual faith and benefit
Mumbai’s war memorials
Two memorials located in the heart of Mumbai city serve as a reminder of the crucial role played by Mumbai city, especially her docks in World War I. Over one million Indian soldiers and sailors fought on behalf of the Allied powers in the Great War.