While Africa, too, has not been immune to the broader trend toward autocracy – with West Africa in particular reaching a political low point – there are more encouraging signs on the economic front.
By David Renke
Somalia’s parliament has extended the terms of office of both its members and the president by one year. As a result, both lawmakers and the president will now be able to remain in office for five years. The opposition has rejected the constitutional amendment and is calling for elections to be held in May.
By Redaktion Table
The US government has announced that it will provide financial support to sympathetic organizations in Europe. Marco Rubio’s visit, during which he endorsed the election of Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, is in keeping with this approach – but there is resistance to this malign influence.
By Markus Grabitz and Stephan Israel
Africa will see a large number of significant elections in 2026, shaped by political instability and authoritarian tendencies. Elections in Ethiopia and Morocco, in particular, could have a major impact on regional stability.
By David Renke
The conviction of Hong Kong media entrepreneur and opposition figure Jimmy Lai was not unexpected. Nevertheless, the judges are facing international criticism.
By Jörn Petring, Fabian Peltsch and Marcel Grzanna
Myanmar’s military government is planning elections that have been met with skepticism by the United Nations and opposition groups. Meanwhile, the son of former head of government and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi fears that his mother may be dead.
By Yi Ling Pan
Hong Kong’s last major opposition party has dissolved. A verdict in the trial of media tycoon Jimmy Lai is also expected on Monday.
By Leonardo Pape
The proposal for the European Democracy Shield proves disappointing with its modest steps. There is a lack of binding measures. Parliamentarians want to know what influence the US government has had on the initiative.
By Corinna Visser
The draft of the European Democracy Shield includes provisions for a new coordination body that pools expertise from member states, EU institutions and civil society. Another new feature is a crisis protocol for disinformation incidents.
By Corinna Visser
