Current Affairs - International

The SAMHiTA (South Asian Manuscript Histories and Textual Archive) Manuscript Digitisation Project was launched at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in October, 2026. The initiative is a collaboration between the India International Centre (IIC), Delhi, and the Gangaramaya Temple, with financial assistance from the Government of India. The project aims to digitise ancient palm-leaf manuscripts to preserve South Asia’s cultural and intellectual heritage, including religious traditions, philosophies, rituals and artistic practices. The project’s memorandum of understanding was signed in July 2026, and its completion is expected by the end of November 2026.

Cuba has been the subject of a long-standing economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States since 1960, following the Cuban Revolution and the nationalisation of American-owned properties. On October 28, 2026, India supported a United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for an end to this embargo. The resolution received 130 votes in favour, 17 against and 25 abstentions during the Assembly's 81st session. India emphasised national sovereignty, international law and multilateral cooperation. Although the resolution reflects the international community's position, it is non-binding and does not legally compel the United States to lift its sanctions.

October 24 to 30 is observed as Disarmament Week by the United Nations to promote awareness of the importance of disarmament in maintaining international peace and security. The observance begins on October 24, which marks the anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations in 1945. Disarmament Week was established in 1978 following a special session of the UN General Assembly on disarmament. The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) organises the annual observance. It encourages governments, non-governmental organisations and the public to understand disarmament challenges and support efforts to reduce global security threats.

Turkiye will host the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Antalya from November 9 to 20, 2026. The summit will bring together delegates from countries worldwide to discuss climate change mitigation, adaptation, climate finance, and the implementation of the Paris Agreement. Türkiye will also lead the Action Agenda, while Australia will play a key role in the official climate negotiations under the leadership of Chris Bowen. Murat Kurum, Türkiye's Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, will serve as the President of COP31.

Lula da Silva, whose full name is Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, won Brazil’s presidential runoff election held on October 25, 2026, securing 51.79% of the valid votes. He defeated his right-wing challenger, Flávio Bolsonaro, who received 48.21%. Lula represents the Workers’ Party (PT) and has a long political career, having first become president in January 2003. After serving two consecutive terms until 2010, he returned to the presidency in January 2023. His new term is scheduled to begin on January 5, 2027. His key challenges include political divisions, economic reforms, environmental protection and international relations.