Palestinians had seen it coming for years. The deal which the United Arab Emirates recently signed with Israel not only renders Palestinians hopeless but also makes them even more unaware of what the future might hold for them. But that is just one side of the story.

The “stab in the back” which Palestinians say has crushed their hopes of getting a fair response from the Arab world has many facets. Both regional powerhouses penned an agreement on August 13, paving the way for the normalization of diplomatic ties. After Egypt’s 1979 Peace Treaty and Jordan’s 1994 Agreement, the UAE has become only the 3rd Arab state to normalize ties with Israel.

How Was the Deal Made?

The deal was in the workings for years. Officials involved in the formulation of the agreement known as the Abraham Accord, say cohesion between both sides started picking up pace in February last year during the Mideast Conference in Poland. The main idea behind this deal in the long-run is to strengthen the UAE in terms of security to fight the battle along with ally Saudi Arabia against Iran’s regional influence.

The immediate propositions of this pact will see bilateral direct flights, scientific cooperation, and the establishment of concrete business ties. According to the UAE government, the deal will halt Israel’s annexation plans for parts of the West Bank and will give both sides a chance to negotiate a renewed peace plan.

But one might wonder how efficient these plans actually are?

Israel has shown little to no interest in harmonizing relations. Attacks are still being conducted on a daily basis, the United States embassy was also moved to Jerusalem last year and the Peace Plan was rejected by Palestinians as being “one-sided.” This time around, even the Muslim world remains divided over the stance taken by the UAE.

On one side are countries like Jordan and Egypt which have hailed the deal as a stepping stone to bring peace for the Palestinian cause. On the other, are allies Turkey and Iran which have strongly rejected the deal, saying the UAE has betrayed the Palestinian cause by siding with the Israelis.

International Response to the Abraham Accord

Let’s take a look at how exactly the Muslim world has responded to this political change. To get a better picture let’s divide them into two groups; Pro-deal and Anti-deal groups. Jordan, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman along with some European countries are the ones who have applauded the deal. Turkey, Iran, Qatar, Pakistan, Malaysia and Kuwait are the ones which have strongly criticized the deal.

Jordan and Egypt released a statement following the confirmation of the normalization of ties. Egyptian President Sisi welcomed the deal, saying it would help bring peace to the Middle East. Jordan’s Foreign Minister Safadi also lauded the agreement saying the deal was an incentive to end occupation once and for all.

Spain, Germany, France and the United Kingdom have also appreciated the effort made by both sides with all agreeing that if the deal is put through, there could be a much more peaceful Middle East which in turn will enable peace between Israel and Palestine once and for all.

Turkey on the other hand said the UAE was playing a dangerous role and President Recep Erdoğan even threatened to call his ambassador back to Ankara from Abu Dhabi. It added that the UAE must remain committed to the 2002 Arab Peace Plan developed by the Arab league. Iran, which is also considered to be a pivotal actor in the deal, termed the move “strategic stupidity.” While Oman backed the normalization of ties between both sides, Morocco released a statement with Prime Minister El Othmani saying that the rights of the Palestinians are a “red line” for his government.

Non-state actors such as Hamas and Hezbollah have also denounced the deal saying it will further increase tensions and bloodshed in Palestine. Pakistan and Qatar have also strongly rejected the deal with the Pakistani government saying it will respond according to the conditions of the Palestinians and how well they are treated by the accord. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry also added that Palestinians must be given their full legitimate rights and the right to self-determination.

What Does the Future Hold for the Volatile Region?

While it’s apparent that the West has welcomed this deal between Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv, they might have, in one way or the other, overlooked the real components of this deal. I believe that if the deal is actually to improve the living conditions of Palestinians, to stop annexation and to bring peace and stability in the region, both sides must work hard to achieve that. If the UAE is gaining better diplomatic relations and transfer of resources, then it should also comply with the peace plan and make sure to secure rights of Palestinians in order to legitimize Palestinians and secure a better future for them.

L'articolo Is the UAE-Israel Deal an Actual ‘Stab in the Back’ for Palestinians? proviene da InsideOver.

Mali, one of Africa’s prized possessions and once known as the hub of democracy in the continent is facing its worst crisis since 2012. On August 18, President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita  and his Prime Minister Boubou Cissé were arrested after some Malian soldiers fired gunshots at a key army base in Kati. The incursion led to a mutiny by another faction of Mali’s armed forces.

The small army town of Kati is located right outside the capital of Bamako and is considered to be one of the most politically important places in the country.

Mali: a History of Never-Ending Problems

Mali is a country which has faced many problems. Islamist insurgency groups, political corruption and mismanagement of basic resources are only some of these issues. There are many militants who returned to the country following the end of Muammar Qaddafi’s reign in Libya in 2011. They were being supplied with weapons to fight the Tuareg rebels in the country’s north.

Nearly half of the country lives in extreme poverty without access to employment, education or healthcare and disruption caused by rebel groups has worsened the situation. The country’s economy is largely dependent on mining, agriculture and gold. Rebel groups in the country say they’ve taken matters into their own hands to fight excessive violence by security forces and widespread corruption by the government.

What Led to the Ouster of Mali’s Government?

In order to understand what led to the ouster of Keita we need to go back to March 2020 when the coronavirus started to spread rapidly across the world. At the same time, parliamentary elections were being held in Mali, where the now deposed president was trying to tighten his grip by gaining the maximum number of seats. The first round of voting went ahead despite the threat of the coronavirus and the frequent attacks by armed groups.

The second round was when all these problems deepened. The second round — which took place at the end of April — was disrupted by numerous incidents which led to the constitutional court overturning the results for 31 key seats and handing these seats to Keita’s Rally for Mali party.

Malians and opposition political parties joined hands in May the following month to form an alliance which was called the “Movement of June 5 – Rally of Patriotic Forces.” The alliance — led by famous Islamic preacher Imam Mahmoud Dicko — called on the president to step down due to his failure in controlling the extensive crises plaguing the country.

Problems Intensify

The months of June and July were extremely troublesome for Mali, with protests — not only in the capital Bamako but across the country — growing violent. The alliance called for civil disobedience and the dissolution of the parliament after Keita floated political reforms. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) called on politicians to form a unity government but that move was also rejected by protesting opposition groups who wanted the direct removal of Keita from office.

Just earlier this month on August 12, security forces clashed with protesters and fired tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters at a square in Bamako. Five days later on August 17 the opposition declared that they would not bow down to the pressure imposed by security forces and the Keita government. The very next day, Keita and PM Cissé were both arrested after some soldiers from the army mutinied and detained them.

The International Community’s Involvement in Mali

France is in Mali as part of Operation Barkhane, a counterterrorism operation against Islamic Jihadists who wish to impose their control in the whole Sahel region. France entered Mali in 2013 and has been heavily involved ever since. It also happens to be Mali’s former colonial ruler.

The G5 Sahel force is also another group of players deployed in Mali to monitor developments. The African Union and the United Nations are also playing a significant role in Mali. The UN is overseeing the implementation of the 2015 Accord, better known as the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali resulting from the Algiers Process.

This accord was brought forward to control Islamic and ethnic militias operating in Mali. Like all other deals, this one has also failed to quell unrest. Finally, the United States is also a key player in containing the spread of violence, bloodshed and terror that militia groups like the Islamic State and al-Qaeda have continued to spread in the Islamic Maghreb.

The Aftermath of Keita’s Removal

With millions displaced and thousands killed, the future of Mali is on a knife’s edge. For France, this is an opportunity to fix emerging problems. Its presence in the country could be short-lived following the public uproar against the Malian government and its international partners.

Keita failed to clamp down on corruption by installing allies in the government. Despite numerous attempts to satisfy his citizens he failed miserably, proving that there was no democracy left in the country and showing the instability of the country’s institutions.

What’s Next for Mali?

Mali’s ever-growing problems can only be solved if a variety of genuine policies are implemented and long-awaited reforms are put into practice. It can do this by firstly integrating a peace process which would satisfy all stakeholders; the Mali government, the citizens of the country and the armed groups. Negotiations must take place between these groups to carve out a solution that would be beneficial for long-term survival.

Secondly, there should be new actors in Mali, those who are willing to respect the decisions of their people and are knowledgeable in running a country marred by years of civil wars.

Lastly, there should be new guarantors and the 2015 Accord must be used in a manner which takes the needs and wants of people into consideration. The new guarantors could be the United States or the United Nations which will help implement democratic values and oversee Mali’s reconstruction. Given the prevalence of jihadist and militant groups and its continuing political unrest, the road ahead is likely to be tough, but it can be countered if necessary actions are taken by the right leaders and stakeholders.

L'articolo Mali’s Political Crisis and the Long Road Ahead proviene da InsideOver.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) alliance is known around the world for its commitment and perseverance to ensure peace and stability in regions where hostilities increase on a daily basis. NATO is a force to be reckoned with. However, the organization is slowly losing momentum.

Macron: NATO is Experiencing ‘Brain-Death’

French President Emmanuel Macron said last year that NATO is experiencing “brain-death.” one might question what the French President meant when he said those words. Macron was criticizing the participation of the United States by saying that the bloc could no longer depend on the Trump Administration for protection. He also voiced his views regarding the protection of Europe unilaterally saying that it should be done by European powers themselves.

2020: NATO’s Problems are Far From Over

Fast-forward to this year and the organization is yet again facing problems of unity and cooperation. At the heart of the latest issue is the European Union’s naval mission Operation IRINI which monitors the arms embargo on Libya through vessels deployed in the Mediterranean Sea. The warring sides in Libya; that of Libyan National Army General Khalifa Haftar and Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj’s U.N.-recognized Government of National Accord are not showing any signs of ceasing fire. Earlier last month on June 10, a Tanzanian flagged ship was spotted by a Greek vessel called Spetsai and Greece accused Turkey of using it to transport weapons to the Fayez al-Sarraj government in Tripoli.

Cirkin vs. Courbet

This was just part one of what happened later on the same day when the Tanzanian-flagged ship Cirkin’encountered the French frigate Courbet. France lodged an official complaint to NATO saying that the Turkish ships were hostile when asked about what the Cirkin was carrying. Turkey has denied the accusations, saying the encounter was friendly. Following the incident in the Mediterranean, France decided on July 1 to withdraw from NATO’s Operation Sea Guardian. The very next day, France’s minister for armed forces, Florence Parly said at the EU’s Security and Defense Subcommittee hearing that, “I have been supported by many of my European counterparts and I thank them. We are supposed to be an alliance. An ally who conscientiously violates the rules that the alliance is supposed to enforce and tries to threaten those who interrogate him is not acceptable.”

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in return replied by saying: “Our expectation from France at the moment is for it to apologize in a clear fashion, without ifs or buts, for not providing the correct information.” Turkey’s Defense Minister Hulusi Akar also branded the French accusations as “completely unrealistic.” The EU’s top diplomat Joseph Borrell was in the Turkish capital on 6th July to discuss issues regarding the Sea Guardian mission, Syria and other bilateral topics. The Turkish FM once again warned the EU on the occasion that Ankara will retaliate if the bloc decides to impose new sanctions on Turkey.

NATO Needs to Get its Ship in Order

NATO’s problems and disagreements aren’t new but if complications continue to persist, infighting could reach a tipping point. Turkey has its own concerns with the EU. Under the 2016 migration deal, it hasn’t received the promised aid for refugees coming from Syria. This has worsened tensions between the two sides. Furthermore, the EU accession process is also another area of concern where France is against Turkey’s inclusion to the bloc. The Turkish concerns are appropriate but it won’t help if both sides continue the cold war over Libya. While the French side says it will return to the Sea Guardian mission, it has asked for a few requests to be accepted. Notably, that Turkey respects the embargo, a categorical rejection of Turkey’s use of NATO codes, initiation of de-confliction measures and improved cooperation between the EU and NATO.

Turkey is the Wild Card

But to what extent will Turkey cooperate with NATO and France? Turkey has repeatedly stated that tensions with the EU and France in particular could be resolved through dialogue and by guiding all stakeholders in a politically correct manner. If actions from both sides are taken in terms of reconciliation and compliance, then only will this problematic scenario reach its desired end.

This event shows the deepening divide between NATO members who have personal statements and interests in the organization. The communication between members is weak as many of them support opposing sides in ongoing military conflicts across the globe. For instance, France sides with Libya’s Haftar while Turkey has given its backing to the internationally-recognized government of Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj.

France’s growing worry over NATO support could take a turn for the worse as only 8 out of 30 NATO members sided with French claims which accused Turkey. The UK and the US refrained from siding with the French since London considers Turkey as a crucial partner post-Brexit and the relationship between the Americans and the Turks is at a commendable point where both are on the same side in Libya. Boris Johnson was also reported to have said that he does not give “much credibility” to France’s views.

L'articolo NATO Tensions and the ‘Brain-Death’ of the Strategic Alliance proviene da InsideOver.

A treaty which was meant to deliver openness and transparency has once again been rejected by the United States. On May 21 the Trump Administration announced that it will be withdrawing from the Open Skies Treaty.

What is the Open Skies Treaty?

This multinational treaty is one which gives signatories the right to conduct surveillance overflights over any part of member state countries. The treaty was the initial brainchild of 34^th American President Dwight Eisenhower to de-escalate fever-pitch Cold War tensions. However, that plan did not work out entirely, as the Soviet Union considered it a deal which would give the other side an advantage in monitoring military prowess. The landmark treaty was penned in 1992. It went into effect in 2002 with 34 members in total.

The treaty is a bit tricky to analyze. According to the treaty, members can take aerial footage of the host nation but have to give a 72-hour notice beforehand. Officials from the host state can also be a part of the flight in consideration. Keeping a check on military activity was the key idea behind this treaty which was re-proposed by American President George W. Bush in 1989. It was based on the workings of former President Eisenhower. A post-cold-war era was not the best place to live in despite many agreements and cooperation for peace and security. The treaty aimed to keep in check disarmament and arms control agreements. Nearly 200 flights have been conducted by the United States and 70 by Russia since 2002.

When Will the US Officially Exit the Treaty?

With the United States now having given a six-month notice prior to its actual withdrawal without a consultation with Congress, there are many questions that may come to mind. Some of them will focus on “whether the treaty was beneficial” or was it just another “vague commitment towards safety and security?” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s press release elaborated as to why the United States was opting out of the treaty. The top American diplomat stated that President Trump’s main goal is “to safeguard the rights of Americans and their interests.” National security was also another key topic and so was Russia. The main talking point behind the withdrawal has throughout been Russian non-compliance. Pompeo added that if Russia starts to obey and regards the treaty, the United States will reconsider coming back on board.

Russia Isn’t Following the Rules

What Pompeo said was actually true. Russian non-compliance has increased over time. Russia restricted the United States from conducting overflights in its border with the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and south Ossetia, went on to ban flights over Crimea and limited flight duration over Kaliningrad. These moves did violate the treaty but one must not forget that the United States also restricted overflights over Hawaii. Pompeo has gone so far to say that Russia has “weaponized” the treaty.

Now one may ask what the consequences will be for the United States and global security overall? For starters, this move may come as a shock for many of the members who have still vowed to respect the treaty by being a part of it. Another reason why the United States has opted out is because of the increasing tensions with China. From economic warfare, to sanctions and blaming China for expansion and autocratic rule over Hong Kong and Taiwan, the United States has proven that Sino-U.S. relations can intensify over the coming period. This also leaves members in limbo as to why the United States has withdrawn from this treaty. The consequences can be immense. This would also allow the United States to beef up military activity across the country without being monitored.

Russian and US Imaging Capabilities

The United States and Russia both possess highly advanced satellites which can capture complex images. Through these satellites, the need to conduct overflights is rendered null and void as they can virtually capture images of any location around the world without having a treaty in place. The international arms control framework has lost almost all of its credibility. The United States has withdrawn from the Iran Nuclear Deal (JCPOA), has refused to ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty and has shunned the Intermediate Range Nuclear Force Treaty (INF). Such moves not only increase the possibility of a direct confrontation but also decrease the importance and relevance of cooperation in an ever-changing world. Instead of easing tensions, all this will lead to risky misunderstandings which will be hard to curb in the future.

The future of arms control depends on who will win the American elections this November. If Trump manages a successful victory, the damage could be far worse than it is today. However, if Democrats win, the problems could be limited to a large extent. The Democrats have already said that alliances should not be undermined and that the Open Skies Treaty is a key tool in monitoring Russia’s military endeavors. At this point in time, a professional and strategic approach would be in the best interest of everyone involved and will safeguard the security of allies who now believe that the United States will eventually turn back on all of its promises.

L'articolo For Better or for Worse? US Quits the Open Skies Treaty proviene da InsideOver.

China: the country where the Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) originated. For months we’ve been glued to our screens, stuck at home and trying to figure out a potential clue to what might lie ahead. Back in Beijing, China’s power brokers are also pondering over how things will normalize.

China’s Influence Was Rising — Then COVID-19 Hit

For decades, China’s influence has been rising steadily. From global expansions to regional dominance, it has displayed a wealth of different capabilities that perched the country firmly at the top of the global world order. This year has not been so fruitful. The coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan earlier in January came as a massive blow for President Xi Jinping and his long-term ambitions. From initially hiding the outbreak of COVID-19 to later suppressing its severity, all of this has put China in a precarious position. 

China’s influence across the world could go both ways. Overall, the country took quick action to stem the virus, treating patients in the best way possible. There have reportedly been no new cases in the country for a couple of days but even if they do emerge, they are in lesser numbers. China’s response to counter the disease was swift and Beijing formulated into a plan which the rest of the world should adapt to. Quick to enforce lockdowns, putting the infected into quarantine and bringing back to life those who were preparing to take their last breath. China’s influence today is as important as it was before the outbreak of the COVID-19. However, criticism has been immense. China is being condemned by various countries across the globe for not curbing the virus when it first broke out, for not keeping it in control and for eventually letting it evolve into a pandemic.

Assessing Chinese Soft Power

China’s influence on a global scale following the outbreak was positive at first. It has offered assistance to over 120 countries by not only dispatching medical teams but also donating supplies such as masks, ventilators and PPE which to a certain extent has helped alleviate their shortcomings. Secondly, due to eradicating problems at home in a smooth manner, China now has an advantage over the United States and the European Union. Over 20 million jobs have been lost in the United States as industries start reopening and the economy starts to regenerate in China.

This goes on to show that China could emerge as a global leader, lending finance and resources to those who are having a hard time passing through this calamity. Countries like Italy, Spain and France who have suffered the worst COVID-19 crises would be more than willing to receive assistance. The decline around the globe is forcing many countries to work on their internal problems and focus on issues that dominate the domestic agenda rather than what happens outside their borders. The biggest concern is the lack of appropriate healthcare systems. The coronavirus crisis has highlighted many problems within corrupt governments, narrating a stark tale of ineffectiveness in monitoring the entire situation.

Flipping the Script

Flipping the script allows us to delve deeper into new realities. The post-pandemic period is unlikely be a place where hegemonic powers will battle for the new world order. In China’s case, it will have to face many troubles which will consequently hurt its international image and prestige. Trust in China will definitely wane over the inability of the country to contain the virus and allowing it to spread. The public sentiment within the country has also dramatically dampened given the autocracy of President Xi Jinping. Avoiding blame by the international community will become a difficult task as Wuhan was the epicenter of the virus which emerged from a live animal market. Considering all these issues, it is likely that China would see a drop in tourists to the country out of fear, a halt in foreign investments and a reluctance to persuade the outside world in the authenticity of its statements. The British think-tank Henry Jackson Society has gone so far to say that China owes the G7 up to $4 trillion in damages.

What About the Belt and Road Initiative?

China’s biggest source of international attention and influence was the Belt and Road Initiative which literally spanned across the globe. It was comprised of various mammoth infrastructure projects in Asia and Africa. With the onset of the coronavirus, all projects have been suspended indefinitely. This means a halt in the transfer of resources, materials and labor. Many countries have also asked for debt relief from China given the current circumstances. While poorer countries are facing the brunt of the impact of this virus, many developing countries are asking China for accountability; to give answers to what went wrong in the first place and why this situation arose.

China’s strength should never be underestimated despite the potential troubles it may have to face once this pandemic subsides. However, with the virus surging at great speed, overcoming border controls and destroying lives on a daily basis, China will have to sit back and reevaluate its domestic and international agenda to regain its global footing. The international community will demand more transparency for the actions China takes and the road it decides to pursue next.

L'articolo Has Coronavirus Hurt China’s Influence? proviene da InsideOver.

Months of long-lasting lockdowns have left populations in panic and economies in decline. This has been the situation in Europe over the past two months, but with healthcare systems overwhelmed and doctors pleading locals to stay at home, the threat of the coronavirus remains real. Deaths have crossed the 20,000 mark in Italy, France, Spain and the United Kingdom, and authorities are now hoping to contain the virus by pushing for stricter measures such as social distancing and urging people to avoid non-essential travel.

The Reality of Lockdowns

The coronavirus lockdowns have brought life to a daily halt. The regular movement of people has been restricted, education has taken a hit across all age groups, stock markets are performing poorly and a general interest in consumerism has fallen low. These lockdowns have brought both good and bad results. The number of cases are gradually decreasing which may come as a positive sign in this fight against the invisible enemy, but at the same time it has brought a halt to all major industries globally which include manufacturing, production and retail businesses. Businesses are turning towards their governments to ask for funding which will help them revive after incurring heavy financial losses. Take airlines for example, many have become bankrupt – their wings chopped off. Sporting events have been suspended, another blow for some of the top professional athletes in the world.

At a time when the pandemic is wreaking havoc across the globe, forcing people out from their jobs and bringing forth a recession, there arises the need to ease these lockdowns and restart daily life. However, this will come at a cost. There still hasn’t been any discovery of a potential vaccine which can eliminate the virus completely and nothing of the sort is expected for at least a year. Governments are now considering easing these lockdowns to make sure problems such as growing inequality between the rich and poor, domestic violence and other mental or physical illnesses do not reach their tipping point. They’re relying on the use of technology, putting restrictions on people of certain ages and limiting the time people can stay outdoors. So how is Europe eventually going to take a break for good from these lockdowns?

Phase Two of Italy’s Response to COVID-19 Starts on May 4

Starting off with Italy, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has announced a few measures which will help the country get back on its feet. ‘Phase Two’ of Italy’s fight against the coronavirus will begin on May 4 when restrictions will be loosened, the construction and manufacturing sectors will reopen and people will be allowed to visit their relatives. However, social distancing will still be strictly practiced and people will have to wear masks. The strict measures that Italy took earlier in its fight have resulted in extremely encouraging statistics which state that 45% of the transmission of the virus was contained due to the lockdown. Cafés and restaurants will be allowed to open from June 1 but schools will remain shut until September. The ban on mass has angered some segments of Italian society but PM Conte says he believes in his advisory board which knows what’s best for the country. Conte’s moves have raised some eyebrows, with opposition coming from the far-right League but his coalition remains solid in the face of criticism. While some factions of the Italian political landscape are against Conte, the majority are in favor of the PM’s actions during COVID-19. This can also be seen by the 66% approval rating that he has gained in under two months.

Spain’s ‘New Summer’

In Spain, a ‘new summer’ is on the horizon. With the highest number of deaths recorded and a lockdown that has been the strictest in the world, Spaniards are also preparing to ease lockdowns and resume normal life. Earlier this week, children were allowed to go outside after 6 weeks. Starting May 4, Spain’s ‘Phase One’ will kick into action where people will be allowed to go outside as long as they maintain distance. People will also be allowed to visit small shops which will open but will use only 30% of their space. People will not be allowed inside. Spain’s strategy to some extent could prove effective, since it’s allowing provinces and not regions to ease lockdowns based on health statistics, cases and the stress on the health system. Similar to Italy, schools will not open until September. The end of June is the target for Spain and it might just be on course to achieve that.

France, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands

Schools and businesses will reopen in France starting May 11 but bars and restaurants will have to wait till the end of June. France’s PM says during the easing of the lockdown the country will conduct 700,000 tests on a weekly basis. In Germany, face coverings have been made compulsory in public. However, after easing lockdown restrictions for big manufacturers like Volkswagen and other small shops, the reproduction rate of the virus rose to 1.0. This shows that it might still be too early to ease lockdowns as people will be infected. Germany’s central government has warned businesses to take utmost caution before another set of more relaxed lockdown rules are released on May 6.

Belgium’s return to normalcy will also take place in 3 stages with the first stage starting on May 4. The Netherlands will also start reopening small businesses in May with schools reopening by the end of June. In Norway, primary schools have already opened while the Swiss are out and about as restrictions ease and people are allowed to visit select shops. The use of masks is also compulsory in these countries despite the relaxation of lockdowns. In the Czech Republic, non-essential travel has been given the green signal, universities have opened and gatherings of 10 people are now allowed.

Turkey’s Situation with COVID-19

In Turkey, all educational institutes have been closed till the end of May while flights have also been suspended till the end of the month. President Erdogan has decided to impose weekend lockdowns during the holy Muslim month of Ramadan, where citizens aren’t allowed to leave their homes, but will be able to only for essential services. Medical workers and journalists however will be allowed to go outside. Flights have also been shut down till further notice while bars, clubs and other places of entertainment will reopen at the start of June. Turkey’s neighbor Greece which is currently embroiled in the migration crisis has so far recorded a little less than 3,000 cases. It’s also planning to reopen its economy which is heavily dependent on tourism as roughly 1 in 5 people work for the country’s tourism sector.

Lockdowns across the continent have impacted the flow of daily life on a regular basis. At this point, what we need to take into consideration is the well-being of not only ourselves but those around us. Rushing to ease restrictions could potentially bring renewed problems which could be hard to control if strict action isn’t taken. Governments must put the interest and well-being of their citizens first and then take actions which would benefit the society and humanity as a whole while balancing the easing of restrictions with the risks.

L'articolo To Ease Lockdowns Or To Extend Them? A Growing Worry In Europe Takes Over proviene da InsideOver.

The rise and fall of capitalism. Could we have predicted this earlier? The coronavirus pandemic sweeping across the globe may cause complications that are beyond imagination at this point. Cities once hustling and bustling with locals and tourists have now turned into ghost towns following massive lockdowns. Shops are shut, businesses suspended and millions forced out from their jobs. The consequences of the coronavirus could be sharp and deadly and, in the long-term, capitalism may end up taking the biggest hit.

How Does Capitalism Work?

To understand what capitalism is, let’s look at it this way: capitalism is an economic system where private exchange and ownership are the basis of the economic system instead of state-owned or socialized ownership. In reality, capitalism has shown itself to be a system where a few people end up owning the vast number of resources and wealth while the working class which is used by these capitalists to produce goods for local or global societies. The working class, in order to survive, must work for the ruling “owner” class and earn wages to carve out a basic living. However, if these corporations shut down, the average person won’t be able to survive due to the lack of income.

The capitalist society is one which is driven by profits. If an initiative is not worth the desired return, that plan could be canceled. Light is being shed on this system as healthcare systems collapse and world leaders scratch their heads before making the next move. Lockdowns in major economies like the United States, India, Brazil and almost all of Europe have led to the reduction in demand. The price of oil has fallen to a record low and corporations are betting on their next moves.

This has also put world governments in serious crisis. Citizens are questioning their leaders why effective measures weren’t enforced beforehand to stem the transfer of infections. With the inability to stop the spread and lockdowns being proposed as the ideal means to fight Covid-19, consumer spending is also taking a hit. Recession is here but so are issues for major industries, who have no consumers left to take care of. Share prices have also slumped as investor confidence continues to fall rapidly.

Helping Big Business or Citizens?

The main problem lies in governments trying to save big businesses over and above innocent people. Let’s take the example of Pakistan, a country closest to China where the virus initially broke out. Prime Minister Imran Khan said earlier that, “I would have gone for complete lockdown of the country had there been a similar situation in Pakistan like it had emerged in China and Italy.” He said that his government would not be able to provide food to the people and that, “the chaos and panic is more dangerous than coronavirus (Covid-19).” Despite being disguised as concern for ordinary people, this goes on to show that the survival and sustenance of capitalistic structures are preferred over the well-being of citizens.

Similarly, we can see in the United States that a ‘for-profit,’ capitalistic structure is dragging millions to the brink of death. Where private healthcare systems are made to gain advantage rather than helping people recover. In the $1 trillion stimulus package unveiled by President Donald Trump, over $360 billion are allocated for small businesses so that they don’t lay off their workers, while under the same program, Americans will be entitled to receive checks of $1,000. In a society where a routine check-up would cost anywhere from $200-$700, what importance will a thousand dollars have?

The Destruction of Small Business

To keep the economy running, it is essential that small businesses continue to progress. However, the problem is that these businesses will survive at the expense of their workers who in some cases don’t have access to apt precautions to fight the virus, risking their lives so that they can earn money to sustain their livelihoods. The capitalist structure is effective but harsh since it disregards basic human rights. Another harrowing detail of the stimulus plan is that hospitals and health centers are allocated $100 billion while big distressed companies get over $400 billion in funding. Not to forget the tourism and aviation industries which will have around $75 billion at their disposal.

In the United Kingdom, £350 billion were borrowed by the state to pour that amount into the bank accounts of both large and small businesses, while also suspending taxes. When we compare this situation with that of China, a country siding more towards an authoritarian and communist structure, we see that the health of citizens was heavily prioritized. Despite hiding the initial outbreak from the outside world, China built hospitals, installed surveillance cameras and entered into a lockdown which was capable of stemming the flow of the virus. China’s effective measures safeguarded the lives of its citizens.

Looking into the Future

When this coronavirus crisis ends, people will be more inclined to think about the choices they need to make in order to survive. An entirely different mindset will be visible across the globe as people come to terms with the problems that the real world faces. Many will continue doing the same: going back to their normal routines and enjoying life to the fullest, but for some it will be a completely different story altogether.

Yes, at this point in time many corporations are trying to safeguard the rights of their employees, but to what extent that will continue, only time will tell. However, others will be likely to make renewed choices about their health and mental well-being, the things they buy and how much they’re willing to put back into the economy for their own benefit. Will this signal an end of corporate and capitalistic greed and injustice? If we start thinking about what we need and what we want, the answer can be “yes.”

L'articolo Will Coronavirus Kill Capitalism? proviene da InsideOver.

Battling sanctions, the threat of regional powers and the coronavirus, Iran is currently at the center of a crisis that’s unfolding across the world but affecting it the most. The coronavirus which made its way through China has resulted in the deaths of at least 2,517 people in Iran as of March 28.

Iran’s Coronavirus Crisis

The first Iranian case of the coronavirus was reported in February in the city of Qom. Since then, the city has become the epicenter of the virus in the Middle East. The devastating impact that the virus has brought to the country can be seen as the country is now in a lockdown with schools, universities, markets and all public spaces closed to prevent the further spread of the virus. However, one stark issue that is visible is the fact that the government has refused to quarantine entire cities and intercity traffic continues to flow. Flights to China, where the outbreak first began are also not canceled — putting the lives of millions of Iranians at risk.

The Coronavirus Has Hit Iran Especially Hard

With many prominent political figures having contracted the coronavirus in Iran it gives on pause and the urge to determine what went wrong. The virus claimed the life of Mohammad Mirmohammadi, a close aide of Supreme leader Ali Khamenei and a member of the expediency council. Furthermore, it has also put in jeopardy the stability of the Revolutionary Guard Corps as the virus claimed the life of General Nasser Shabani, a senior commander with over 35 years of experience.

What remains behind are people languishing in quarantine, missing out on Norouz celebrations and longing for the desire to meet loved ones. One virus managed to do what no sanctions or pressure campaigns could. On March 22, the Iranian government announced that over 33 million have taken the test for the coronavirus. Despite these staggering figures, there remain cases which haven’t been detected yet and there are still numerous people who have gone on feeling unwell for days without getting tested.

Iran’s Anti-Coronavirus Measures

A brief description of the outlook in Iran paints a clearer picture. All religious sites of worship have been closed indefinitely. The Revolutionary Guard Corps have been asked to take to the streets to monitor the situation and to tackle any shortcomings. Furthermore, the Special Forces have also been given the task to disinfect all spaces to contain the drastic effects of the virus.

However, there’s one thing which comes to everyone’s minds. Why is Iran in this position in the first place? The simple answer is that it is mainly due to the American sanctions imposed on the country. Iran’s Foreign Minister says the healthcare sector has been depleted of resources due to American actions. He says the sanctions have depleted the country of its economic resources. Was the virus’ rapid growth also due the late response on behalf of the government or were people carelessly moving around? This debate is another story because for now the damage has been done.

Khamenei: Coronavirus is a Targeted Genetic Bioweapon Designed to Kill Iranians

The Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei earlier refused American assistance, saying that the virus was designed by the United States in the first place after years of researching Iranian genetics. He went on to say, “I do not know how real this accusation is but when it exists, who in their right mind would trust you to bring them medication?” The response by Iran’s Supreme Leader came after President Donald Trump said that the United States was willing to offer any assistance to Iran and a great team would be at their service if they asked for help.

Tensions between the US and Iran have continued to rise since Trump withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in 2018. This led to Iran enriching its nuclear capabilities and tighter US sanctions. It reached boiling point earlier this year in January when Iranian-backed militias responded by attacking American bases in Iraq following the killing of top commander Qasem Soleimani in an American drone strike.

Coronavirus is Now Affecting All 31 Provinces of Iran

Iran’s Supreme Leader who runs the show in the country says his nation has the capability to defeat and overcome any sort of crisis but President Hassan Rouhani appealed this week to the United States and other international leaders to assist. It can clearly be witnessed that Iran will not be able to cope on its own to overcome the disease which has now spread to all 31 provinces. So far, assistance has poured in for the country with the UAE, Turkey, Azerbaijan, France, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Qatar and Russia coming to help with donations.

Doctors Without Borders has also pledged support in terms of an inflatable hospital and masks while the World Health Organization is currently in constant contact with those in Iran says the country’s ambassador to the United Nations Majid Takht-Ravanchi. An unlikely situation also developed just recently, where reports emerged that the United States has waived off sanctions for certain countries while dealing with Iran so that it will be possible for them to distribute the basic medical supplies to Iran. However, that report was denied by the Trump Administration which said there was no deal on the table regarding the matter.

Desperate Iranians are also Dying From Trying to Self-Medicate with Dangerous Products

As Iran struggles to cope with the daily deaths and numerous problems that it faces on a daily scale, this week around 400 people also lost their lives after ingesting methanol or cheap alcohol which they believed would cure them from the coronavirus. At this point in time there are many vulnerable people in the country who are in dire need of basic supplies. The European Union, if it does not take measures and if the Americans don’t remove sanctions then it can easily be said that they will be held responsible for those who were killed.

While Iran’s battle against the virus continues on a large scale, it has also asked the IMF for a funding of $5 billion. Iran currently needs respirators, nebulizers, masks and other protective equipment to face the battle that it is in. While the Trump Administration is adamant on not waiving off sanctions, some Democrats including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders have called on Trump to waive the sanctions to save the lives of millions of people across the country.

Iran will have to struggle deeply in the coming days and weeks, but hope must not be lost. Rouhani has allocated around $3 billion, which will be paid to businesses which have collapsed, to unemployment funds and to low-income families. The damage being suffered in this battle is real and the countermeasures also need to be comprehensive in order for Iran to reclaim some of what it has already lost in this war and minimize the lives that will be lost in the coming days and weeks.

L'articolo Iran’s Coronavirus Conspiracy Theory and the Refusal to Accept American Assistance proviene da InsideOver.

With the coronavirus wreaking havoc across the globe, slamming healthcare systems, forcing the closure of borders and causing an economic collapse, the world truly is unaware of which direction it’s headed in. While Italy, China and Iran remain the worst-affected countries by the impact of the virus, the entire world is coming to terms with the stark financial impact the virus will bring in the near future. Nearly all sectors worldwide have been impacted by the coronavirus which originated in Wuhan, China. Be it airlines, the food industry, sports or entertainment, the virus has managed to hit various nations where it hurts most.

No Nation is Truly Prepared

No entity is prepared for a calamity of such magnitude. No one had an idea that problems would worsen so drastically, turning a small outbreak in China into a pandemic where hundreds of deaths are being recorded on a daily basis. What comes to mind considering the financial situation across the world is the fact that were economies, businesses and governments prepared for such an event? We’ll partly have to blame governments and the virus itself for this major mishap.

The virus has shut down countries across the globe due to the fear that people will contract it if they are out in the open. Yes, the virus is real. Yes, the problems brought forward are huge. Countries across the globe are suffering from a potential collapse in their healthcare systems, not only financially. The trauma being experienced by people is not only physical but is also consuming their mind.

Economic Consequences

Starting off with global markets, the FTSE and Dow have now recorded the largest one day declines since 1987. Investors across the globe are fearing the safety and value of the money they have spent. At this point in time, they’re wondering whether economic recovery is even on the cards or not? In light of these events, they are now heavily depending on their respective governments to take actions that will help and stabilize economic growth. Governments in nearly 50 countries have slashed interest rates so that borrowing becomes easier and cheaper. This move will in turn lead to more spending, but how is one supposed to spend when lockdowns have been imposed and people are supposed to spend their time in isolation?

Travel Restrictions

Air travel has also been severely affected. The travel and tourism industry is in jitters after nearly 100 countries imposed travel restrictions. The European Union has also taken similar measures by banning travelers from outside for 30 days. Airlines which will suffer the most are Air France, Lufthansa and Emirates in terms of traveling between EU and non-EU countries. An estimated 48,000 flights and 10.2 million seats are at risk due to the ban imposed. The United States has taken the measure to ban visitors from Europe while countries worldwide are trying to curb Chinese travelers. The United Kingdom will bear the brunt of this decision since Chinese tourists to the United Kingdom are recorded to spend an average of £1,600 during their visits.

Oil Crash

The price of oil is also another major concern in the global economy. It hit its lowest point this year. The last time this happened was in June 2001. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has also forecast growth at 2.4%. The same figure in November 2019 stood at 2.9%.

How Lasting Will the Economic Damage Be?

While many are struggling to come to terms with the impact of the deadly Covid-19, a certain question lingers in the open. Will this pandemic have lasting effects on economies? The answer is yes. There can either be an indirect or a direct hit to consumer confidence. Indirectly, a shock would be seen in the real economy through financial markets. In that case, markets will fall and the household wealth will contract which will lead to higher savings. In such a scenario, economies will face steeper declines. In the case of a direct hit, the fear of the virus will alleviate the confidence within consumers. It will limit them to their homes and might make them pessimistic in the longer term.

At this point in time when markets are crashing and the coronavirus is on everyone’s mind, we must not panic because doing so will result in more troubles not only for consumers but also vendors, bringing about a negative change where no stakeholder involved will be able to reasonably plan for the future. To make matters safe and accessible for all segments of society and the global community, world leaders need to take prompt actions to stem the problems brought forward by this virus.

How Should Governments React?

No government should be solely dependent on financial projections since they’re currently indicating a great amount of uncertainty. There can be many other scenarios which experts should look into to help base their future decisions upon. Yes, the coronavirus is responsible for the current upheaval but if a clear analysis is given, the opportunity to reflect on decisions looking at the bigger picture could be more than enough to avoid panic. Secondly, governments should clearly track consumer signals. This would give companies and governments a leverage dealing with key insights through which apt formulations can be calculated. Lastly, all aspects both at the micro and macro levels should be under consideration.

All stakeholders must dig deeper and see what opportunities or consequences the Covid-19 can bring. Everyone involved in the world of finance and economics must also be open to adopting new technologies and processes in the post-crisis world. This will help ensure that such a crisis in the future will not cripple the world economy again.

L'articolo Global Economic Repercussions of Covid-19 proviene da InsideOver.

The coronavirus and its impact is now being felt heavily across the globe. As cases continue to rise and solutions to the devastating virus look far from reach, world leaders are convening to discuss potential measures that could be life-saving in the upcoming period.

Italy: More Than 1,000 Coronavirus Deaths

Italy is Europe’s worst-affected with deaths and cases topping the 1,000 mark. Countries globally are now rushing to prevent further complications by following strict guidelines and taking measures to ensure the safety of the general public. While China says the country has witnessed its peak and life is returning to normal, it might not be the case elsewhere around the world.

Europe Readies for the Full Impact of Coronavirus

On March 10 European leaders gathered for a virtual conference through which they aimed to bolster their plans to fight the coronavirus. In a bloc where people have begun to panic, addressing their needs and moving forward as one single Union was the need of the hour. The economic stress that the coronavirus has brought is not only on European economies but also on global markets. Following the videoconference between the 27 members, the European Commission and Council’s Presidents Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel announced a €25 billion coronavirus fund that would help small and medium enterprises along with hard-hit sectors and the healthcare system of member states. A further €7.5 billion would be injected later through the current EU budget.

Following the crucial videoconference between leaders of the bloc, von der Leyen stressed some key arrangements to help “weather the storm.” Firstly, the European Commission will hold daily conferences with Health Ministers and Internal Affairs Ministers to coordinate and implement the needed measures. Secondly, the Commission will take a stock of all the respiratory devices and protective equipment and assess their availability and distribution. This comes in the wake of Germany and France announcing that they will curb the export of their medical equipment. The Commission will also form an emergency team of medical specialists to present guidelines feasible for the 27-member bloc. In terms of funding, we can see that the European Union has the budget to fend off the problems brought by the virus. €140 million will also be allocated for the funding, research and development of vaccines as announced by the Commission.

What is the ‘Corona Response Investment Initiative?’

What the European Union is now trying to do is to act collectively to stem the threats posed by this new virus. Rather than acting on an individual level, as highlighted by Germany and France, the Union wants to bring all countries together to achieve targets which would be impossible without the inclusion of all stakeholders. The Corona Response Investment Initiative is the core component of this economic facilitation which will focus on labor markets, healthcare systems and other vulnerable parts of the European economy. How will this fund work? The European Union will ask member states to refund pre-financing for European structural and investment funds.

According to the official statement released by the European commission, “The member states will be required to use these amounts to speed up their investments under the structural funds. They will use this for the national co-financing they would normally have had to provide themselves in order to receive the next tranches of their structural fund envelopes. In view of the average co-financing rates across member states, the €7.5 billion will be able to trigger the release and use of some €17.5-18 billion of structural funding across the EU.”

The Commission is paying close attention through this initiative to:

– Support people so that income and jobs aren’t affected and to avoid its permanent affects.

– Support firms to ensure their liquidity.

– Safeguard health systems by ensuring that they receive the necessary supplies, preserving the integrity of the single-market system.

– Allow members to make cohesive decisions through the State Aid, Stability and Growth Pact Frameworks.

We can see that while the European Union is quick to protect member countries, the support it showed for Italy was poor. China has already offered support to the Italians; handing out masks, medical equipment and even specialists to help tackle the spread of the disease. What the European Union did was just offer words of support rather than taking actual measures in this time of immense need.

Taking Strong Steps to Prevent Coronavirus From Spreading

Flights, sporting events and public gatherings have been banned in many countries across the globe. This has severely impacted financial markets, forcing the price of oil to decline rapidly. The drastic impact that the virus is going to have on markets in the future is something everyone should make necessary preparations for. The European Parliament is also in lock down after an MP tested positive for the virus. While we see governments across the globe taking swift measures to battle the coronavirus, we need to promise ourselves to ensure that strict measures are being enforced and guidelines laid out by the World Health Organization are being followed.

The coronavirus is not something that’s impossible to defeat. Yes, times are tough, many people have died and the future seems uncertain. However, if we lose hope now and stay behind in this battle to eliminate the virus, it may have serious repercussions in the near future. For now, we must help and support those in need and clarify our intentions to give this virus the treatment it deserves so that it never returns to cause the financial, emotional and health losses it has already wreaked across the globe.

L'articolo The European Union Prepares to Battle the Coronavirus proviene da InsideOver.