January 2026

Diplomatic relations between Southeast Asian countries are an important aspect in creating regional stability and economic progress. There are ten member countries of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia. Through this collaboration, these countries seek to improve political, social and economic relations. One of the basic principles of diplomatic relations is mutual respect for state sovereignty. ASEAN develops cooperation based on consensus and prioritizes dialogue as a way to resolve conflicts. This initiative aims to create a peaceful and friendly environment between countries. In an economic context, ASEAN countries cooperate through various trade initiatives. The ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) is a clear example of diplomatic relations that aims to reduce tariffs and facilitate trade between countries. Through AFTA, these countries seek to increase competitiveness in the global market. Diplomatic relations are also strengthened through forums such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the East Asia Summit (EAS). These forums allow member states to discuss regional security issues, including terrorism, resource theft, and climate change. With this dialogue, countries can collaborate in overcoming the threats they face together. Bilateral relations also play a large role in Southeast Asian diplomacy. For example, relations between Indonesia and Malaysia have been established for a long time and are an example of cooperation in the economic and cultural fields. Meanwhile, relations between Thailand and the Philippines are characterized by cooperation in the fields of tourism and education. Culturally, the exchange of knowledge and understanding of culture between countries is also encouraged through various student exchange programs and artistic collaborations. This initiative fosters mutual respect and tolerance between nations, which is very important in maintaining regional stability. In the future, the biggest challenge for Southeast Asian countries will be responding to changing global dynamics, such as external influences and climate change. Therefore, expanding and strengthening diplomatic networks must be the main agenda, considering the complexity of the issues being faced. Especially in the context of sustainable development, ASEAN countries are committed to achieving the 2030 SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) Agenda. Diplomatic relations between countries are expected to encourage investment in green technology and renewable resources. Along with technological advances, digitalization has also become part of modern diplomacy. Cooperation in the field of information and communication technology is crucial to facilitate communication and data exchange between countries. As geopolitical tensions in the Asia-Pacific region increase, Southeast Asian countries need to increase defense and security cooperation, in order to protect national interests and ensure stability. Open dialogue and transparency between member countries is a must to prevent future conflict. By leveraging strong diplomatic relations, Southeast Asian countries can ensure sustainable economic growth and bring benefits to all people in the region. Success in creating close cooperation will determine Southeast Asia’s political and economic future on the global stage.

Modern World War refers to a significant change in global geopolitical dynamics, characterized by the rise of new powers that changed the world’s political and economic landscape. China, Russia, and India are some of the rising powers, influencing international relations and the established world order. China, with the world’s second largest economy, has become an important power thanks to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) program connecting Asia, Europe and Africa. These infrastructure projects serve as a diplomatic tool and strengthen Beijing’s influence in developing countries. In the field of technology, China also competes closely with Western countries, especially in the development of artificial intelligence and 5G. Russia, on the other hand, is reasserting its power through aggressive foreign policy. The intervention in Ukraine and involvement in the Syrian conflict demonstrate Moscow’s strategy to maintain influence in the region. With abundant natural resources, especially energy, Russia is taking advantage of its position as an energy provider to Europe to strengthen its bid. India, as a major democratic power in Asia, is increasingly playing its role in the international arena by developing strategic ties with countries such as the US and Japan. India’s rise is manifested in efforts to improve its infrastructure and production base, which will make it one of the global manufacturing centers. In this stage, multilateral organizations also experience structural changes. With many new powers emerging, such as Brazil and South Africa, groups like BRICS are becoming more relevant in shaping the world power map. The economic and political relationships between these countries allow for the creation of alternatives to US and European domination. Technology plays a crucial role in Modern World War. Cyber ​​warfare, for example, has become a new tool in global competition. Countries such as the United States and China are investing heavily in cyber warfare to protect critical information systems and influence public opinion. In addition, control over data and information is an important element in the success of this new power. The involvement of civil society and social movements is also increasing, encouraging more significant change. In the digital era, the voices of individuals and minority groups can influence political decisions, especially in developing countries. This creates new dynamics in policy making and government legitimacy. Modern World War is also characterized by global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and humanitarian crises. Environmental concerns have prompted many countries to collaborate to achieve sustainable goals. Green diplomacy was a focus at international meetings, with many countries agreeing to reduce carbon emissions and invest in renewable energy. In conclusion, the rise of new powers in the Modern World War shows complex dynamics that continue to develop. With technological innovation, economic and social change, the global power map is changing, creating challenges and opportunities for countries around the world.

The conflict in the Middle East has become one of the most complex and protracted issues in modern history. The main causes of this conflict include political, economic, social and religious factors. First, political factors play an important role. Many countries in the Middle East consist of diverse ethnic and religious groups. However, the existence of authoritarian governments and a lack of democracy often creates dissatisfaction. For example, in Syria, the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011 demonstrated dissatisfaction with Bashar al-Assad’s regime, leading to a brutal civil war. Economic factors also contribute greatly to conflict. Oil-rich countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq often experience instability due to dependence on natural resources. The global economic crisis has left many countries struggling to maintain the living standards of their citizens. In many cases, this instability then leads to social tensions that can trigger violence. The importance of water resources in conflict contexts cannot be ignored. The Euphrates and Tigris rivers, which cross Türkiye, Syria and Iraq, have become a point of dispute due to unfair water management policies. This dispute often leads to armed conflict between countries in the region. Social factors related to identity also play a role in exacerbating conflict. A long history of rivalry between Islamic sects, such as Sunni vs. Shiites, have created deep divisions in society. For example, the conflict in Yemen is often seen as a struggle for influence between countries with different sects. The impact of this conflict is very broad. First, conflicts in the Middle East have caused a major refugee crisis. Thousands of people were forced to leave their homes in search of safety, often heading to other countries in Europe, resulting in social tensions in the receiving countries. Second, global stability is affected by this conflict. Crises in the Middle East could trigger a spike in world oil prices, which will have an impact on the global economy. Political instability also discourages foreign investment from entering the region, hampering economic growth. Third, these conflicts often involve outside powers, including the US and Russia, which complicates the situation. Foreign intervention often prolongs conflicts and makes peaceful resolution more difficult to achieve. Arms sales and military support to allies also allow conflicts to drag on. The sense of injustice felt by certain groups often gives rise to acts of terrorism and extremism. Groups such as ISIS and al-Qaeda exploit this discontent to recruit new members and launch attacks inside and outside the region. In a social context, this conflict causes a deep human tragedy. Human rights violations are rife, with reports of torture, executions without trial, and discrimination against minority groups. Besides that, national unity is a big challenge. Many countries are in disrepair, experiencing distrust between groups and weak government institutions. Reconciliation efforts often hit a dead end, hindering sustainable peace. Ultimately, education and community development in affected areas are also hampered, resulting in a cycle of violence that is difficult to break. Without adequate education, children in conflict areas grow up without hope, making a better future increasingly out of reach. Thus, the conflict in the Middle East is not just a regional problem, but also a global problem that requires immediate attention and action from all over the world.

Changes in United States (US) foreign policy in the face of the global crisis have attracted the attention of many countries. Crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and geopolitical tensions with countries such as China and Russia have prompted the US to update its diplomatic strategy. One of the main focuses is increasing multilateral diplomacy. The US is now more proactive in participating with international organizations such as the UN and NATO to face global challenges together. This transition is clearly visible with the US return to the Paris Agreement. In an effort to address climate change, the US administration is committed to reducing carbon emissions and supporting developing countries in adaptation and mitigation. This strengthens the US position as a leader on important global issues, allowing it to build stronger relationships with other countries. Changes in US foreign policy are also reflected in the approach towards China. Trade tensions and technological breakthroughs are pushing the US to focus on strategic alliances in the Indo-Pacific region. By strengthening ties with countries such as Japan, India, and Australia, the US aims to create a “Joint Front” to counter China’s influence in the region. In addition, the crisis in Ukraine has raised awareness of the importance of international security. The US provides significant military and economic support to Ukraine, while imposing heavy sanctions on Russia. This approach shows how the US is willing to use its economic power to deal with military aggression, and implies a strong commitment to the principles of sovereignty and human rights. US foreign policy has also placed increasing emphasis on social issues and human rights. In the context of relations with countries in the Middle East, the US is now increasingly condemning human rights violations and supporting democratic movements. The US voice in defense of civil liberties also reflects changes in the way the country interacts with authoritarian states. Technological innovation has become an important factor in US foreign policy. Investments in cyber and new technologies influence how the US collaborates. Responding to cyber threats from state and non-state actors, the US is committed to increasing cyber resilience in the global community. The economic approach was also renewed. The US emphasizes the importance of fair trade and sustainability in its economic relations with other countries. By reintroducing policies that support local products and industrial development, the US is seeking to reduce dependence on fragile global supply chains. Globalization, which has been hampered by various crises, has also encouraged the US to encourage investment in renewable energy prospects and sustainable infrastructure. A foreign policy that promotes sustainability will be highly relevant to attract foreign investment and strengthen the US economic position on the global stage. The impact of this change is not only felt at the international level but also domestically. Increased public involvement in global issues implies a greater awareness of the impact of foreign policy on everyday life. By involving the public in discussions about foreign policy, the US can increase support for more holistic strategies. The combination of these changes shows that US foreign policy in the midst of a global crisis is not only adaptive but also proactive. The focus on diplomacy, security and sustainability creates a new paradigm in establishing more balanced and fair international relations.

Global inflation has a significant impact on the economies of developing countries. One of the most striking aspects is the increase in prices of goods and services. These countries often depend on imports to meet basic needs, and as global inflation rises, the prices of imported goods also soar. As a result, people’s purchasing power decreases, thereby exacerbating poverty and inequality. In the production sector, inflation inhibits investment. Uncertainty regarding prices makes local and foreign investors reluctant to invest. This imbalance reduces the potential for economic growth in developing countries, which in turn slows down job creation. With high levels of unemployment, social stability could be threatened, worsening economic conditions. The impact of global inflation is also visible in terms of monetary policy. Central banks in developing countries tend to raise interest rates in anticipation of inflation, which can cause borrowing costs to increase. This has an impact on small and medium businesses, which have difficulty obtaining financing. If there is not adequate support, many businesses can go bankrupt. In addition, developing countries face challenges in terms of external debt. Rising global interest rates increase the burden of debt payments, most of which are denominated in foreign currencies. When the local currency weakens, the debt burden becomes heavier, triggering an economic crisis. Countries such as Argentina and Türkiye are already feeling this impact, making it difficult for them to meet their debt obligations and manage budget deficits. The agricultural sector is also inseparable from the impact of inflation. The increase in fertilizer and raw material prices causes production costs to increase. Many farmers were unable to adapt to these changes, resulting in a decline in food production. With rising food prices, inflation is creating a critical food security crisis in already vulnerable countries. The influence of global inflation on foreign investment also needs to be considered. Economic uncertainty reduces investors’ interest in investing in developing countries. They prefer to invest in assets that are considered more stable, such as developed markets. This has an impact on the development of infrastructure and technology in developing countries, which are highly dependent on foreign investment. Finally, the impact of global inflation has implications for fiscal policy. Governments in developing countries are forced to divert budgets for subsidies and social assistance to help people affected by inflation. In the long term, these decisions could undermine public investments, such as education and health, that are critically needed for sustainable economic growth. From all these factors, it is clear that global inflation has a complex and multidimensional impact on the economies of developing countries. Preparedness and effective mitigation strategies are critical to reducing risks and protecting economic growth.