countries

Recent revelations from a leaked memo reviewed by The Washington Post indicate a potential expansion of the controversial travel ban first introduced in 2017. This move could see several African nations added to the existing list of restricted countries, which raises significant concerns. According to the details of the memo, the proposed restrictions are tied to several factors, notably visa overstay rates and perceived deficiencies in national security vetting systems. These criteria have become pivotal in…

African Nations Unite Against the Growing Threat of Small Arms In a significant stride towards peace and stability, a coalition of African nations from both the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region has come together to address a pressing issue. What might that issue be, you ask? The rampant spread of illicit small and light weapons. Such weapons have been unsettling the very fabric of security within these regions. In Nairobi, the air buzzed with determination as policymakers, security experts,…

In an era marked by shifting global dynamics, Russia is making strategic moves to redefine its presence on the African continent through significant investments in rail infrastructure. The aim? To enhance trade routes, foster regional integration, and solidify its influence in the region. It’s fascinating to observe how these developments could transform not just corridors of transportation, but entire economies. What could the implications be for countries deeply reliant on trade? According to a report by…

In our increasingly interconnected world, the strength of a nation's currency serves as a critical indicator of its economic health and global standing. More than mere numbers exchanged in markets, currency values echo the vitality of a country's governance, economic strategy, and overall competitiveness. As the late economist Paul Samuelson famously noted, "Good economics is good politics." This quote rings particularly true when we consider the complex interplay between currency strength and national policy decisions.…

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Alicia: My husband and I have explored a wide array of destinations, from the vibrant landscapes of Central and South America to the majestic terrains of parts of Africa, Europe, and the enchanting realms of Southeast and East Asia. Yet, if you were to ask us about our most cherished destination, it would undoubtedly be Albania—a hidden gem nestled in the Balkans that has captivated our hearts. Albania is nothing short of breathtaking. It maintains an…

African nations currently find themselves at a pivotal juncture, navigating complex geopolitical waters following China's recent declaration of intent to retaliate against any country that signs trade agreements with the United States “at the expense of China's interests.” This stern warning signals a possible shift in China's global economic diplomacy—a development that could have profound implications for Africa. The implications of this warning are not trivial; they arise amid the backdrop of a deepening…

The European Union has recently unveiled a list of seven countries it deems "safe." This initiative aims to streamline the process of returning migrants by making it more challenging for citizens from these nations to claim asylum within the bloc. According to the European Commission, the proposed "safe countries of origin" include Kosovo, Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, India, Morocco, and Tunisia. This designation will facilitate quicker processing of asylum applications from these countries, establishing a presumption that…

The Truth Behind the Global Nomadic Dream This interview has been thoughtfully edited for length and enhanced clarity. Alicia: As of this conversation, our passports have collected stamps from exactly 47 countries. Each stamp represents a unique chapter of our life, marked with unforgettable stories, hidden struggles, and moments of both exhilaration and exhaustion. This journey didn't exactly begin as planned; perhaps that makes it even more beautiful. We've wandered through bustling streets in Central America,…

Mogadishu (AX) — The city of Mogadishu on an ordinary Wednesday afternoon bore witness to a meeting that could potentially alter the trajectory of Somali-Arab relations. Somali Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre welcomed Ambassador Abdullah Al-Otaibi, representing the Arab League Mission in Somalia, to a discussion characterized by ambition, potential, and mutual growth. Their conversation, while cordial and forward-thinking, was charged with the unspoken acknowledgment of the historical bonds and the pressing need for…

Global Health Satisfaction Rankings Revealed Isn't it curious how differently people perceive their own well-being across the globe? A recent study conducted by Statista Consumer Insights (2023) sheds light on this very phenomenon. This global survey offers a discerning look into how people ranked their health satisfaction over the past year. As surprising as it may sound, citizens of developing nations reported greater satisfaction than some of their wealthier counterparts. Why is this the case? The study…