Current Affairs - International

Tuvalu, one of the smallest and most climate-vulnerable nations, has joined the IUCN as its 90th State Member. Comprising nine low-lying atolls in the Pacific, Tuvalu faces threats like sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and climate-induced challenges to food and freshwater security. IUCN membership provides Tuvalu with access to global conservation expertise, international advocacy platforms, and technical support for biodiversity and climate policies. This membership also allows Tuvalu to engage with initiatives like the Green Climate Fund and Global Environment Facility, enhancing its ability to implement sustainable fisheries, marine protected areas, and community-driven climate adaptation strategies.

Saudi Arabia has officially abolished the kafala system, marking a historic reform in its labour laws. The kafala system had long been criticized for giving employers excessive control over foreign workers, including the ability to confiscate passports, restrict job mobility, and deny exit permits. By ending this system, Saudi Arabia aims to improve workers’ rights, attract skilled foreign labour, and align its policies with global labour standards. This reform also supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to modernise the kingdom’s economy and enhance its global reputation as a fair and progressive employer.

Peru has declared a 30-day state of emergency in its capital, Lima, and the nearby province of Callao in response to increasing crime rates and violent protests. President José Jeri authorised the deployment of the Peruvian Armed Forces alongside the police to maintain public order and restore safety. The emergency allows temporary suspension of certain civil liberties, such as freedom of movement and assembly, and grants broader powers for law enforcement operations. This decisive measure reflects the government’s intent to tackle escalating insecurity, gang violence, and growing public dissatisfaction with the state’s handling of urban crime.

According to the Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025 released by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India has risen to the 9th position globally in total forest area. This achievement highlights the country’s ongoing dedication to expanding and conserving its forest cover through sustainable forestry practices and afforestation programs. Additionally, India continues to hold the 3rd position in annual forest area gain, reflecting significant efforts in reforestation and land management policies aimed at balancing ecological preservation with developmental needs.

Sanae Takaichi was elected as Japan’s first female prime minister on October 21, 2025, receiving 237 votes in the 465-seat Lower House. Her election represents both a historic breakthrough for gender representation and a political shift to the right, reflecting her conservative views modeled on Shinzo Abe and Margaret Thatcher. Takaichi advocates stricter immigration policies, traditional family values, and a stronger national security stance, while also signaling fiscal stimulus measures to address economic challenges. Her leadership is significant not only for breaking a political glass ceiling but also for influencing Japan’s domestic and international policy direction.