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Subject: International Stories of Key Importance

  • NATO’s Exercise Air Defender, 2023

    air defender

    Central Idea

    • NATO recently concluded its largest air defense exercise, Air Defender 2023, in Germany.
    • The exercise involved 250 military aircraft, including 100 from the United States, and aimed to enhance air defense capabilities and deterrence.

    Exercise Air Defender 2023

    • Largest air defense exercise: Air Defender 2023 marked the largest air defense exercise in the history of NATO, with participation from multiple member nations.
    • Enhanced air defense capabilities: The exercise focused on improving air defense strategies, coordination, and interoperability among NATO forces.
    • Successful execution: Despite initial concerns, the exercise performed better than anticipated, resulting in minimal disruptions to regular civilian flights.

    Deterrence and Signalling to Russia

    • Preparing for potential threats: Air Defender 2023 was planned long before the conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated. The exercise aimed to strengthen NATO’s deterrence posture and send a clear signal to Moscow.
    • German Defense Minister’s perspective: German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius viewed the exercise as a demonstration of NATO’s commitment to deterrence, stating that Russia would take notice of the significant military activity.
    • Addressing past criticisms: The Bundeswehr, Germany’s armed forces, have faced criticism for being under-equipped and under-prepared. Air Defender 2023 showcased Germany’s efforts to enhance its war-fighting capabilities.
    • Positive outcomes: The successful execution of the exercise bolstered Germany’s image, demonstrating its readiness and ability to defend itself and its allies.
    • Human connection: The exercise fostered camaraderie and collaboration among pilots from different nations, leaving a positive impression of Germany’s hospitality and professionalism.

  • Canada to quit China-led AIIB

    aiib

    Central Idea: Canada’s government has announced it will halt its work at the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

    Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
    Established Multilateral development bank established in 2016.
    Headquarters Located in Beijing, China.
    Founding Members 57 countries that initiated the establishment of the AIIB.

    India is a founding member.
    Current Membership Over 100 countries have joined the AIIB since its inception.
    Capital Total capital of $100 billion for financing infrastructure projects.
    Largest Shareholder China holds the largest voting power and financial contribution.

    India holds the second-largest voting power within the AIIB, providing influence in decision-making processes.
    Focus Areas Provides funding for diverse sectors including transportation, energy, telecommunications, urban development, and rural infrastructure.
    Collaboration Partners with other multilateral development banks for co-financing projects and enhancing development outcomes.
    Environmental & Social Standards Adheres to environmental and social standards in project selection and implementation.

    Promotes sustainability and inclusiveness.
    Notable Projects Supports significant infrastructure projects such as Chennai Metro Rail and Assam’s road network.

     

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2019

    Q.With reference to Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), consider the following statements

    1. AIIB has more than 80 member nations.
    2. India is the largest shareholder in AIIB.
    3. AIIB does not have any members from outside Asia.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”s4nnnmx12v” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

     

    Background of Canada’s Involvement in the AIIB

    • Canada, a founding member of the AIIB, joined the bank in 2016 with the objective of participating in its development finance activities in the Asian region.
    • The AIIB was seen as an opportunity for Canada to engage in infrastructure development projects and gain access to funding for its companies operating in Asia.

    Rationale behind Canada’s withdrawal

    • Allegations of Chinese Communist Party Control: Canada’s decision stems from the serious allegations made by Bob Pickard regarding the extent of Chinese Communist Party control within the AIIB.
    • Concerns about Autocratic Regimes: The decision also reflects Canada’s growing concerns, shared by other democratic countries, regarding the risks associated with reliance on autocratic regimes for economic cooperation and infrastructure financing.
    • Evaluating Multilateral Institutions: Canada’s move signals a desire to reassess its participation in multilateral institutions like the AIIB to ensure transparency, governance, and adherence to democratic principles.
    • Shifting Attitudes towards China: Canada’s decision reflects a broader trend of Western countries becoming more cautious about their engagements with China and re-evaluating their relationships.

    AIIB’s Role and Relation to Other Banks

    • Development finance: The AIIB was created to address the growing need for development finance in the region.
    • Rival of World Bank: It is often referred to as a rival to the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), but this description exaggerates its capacities.
    • Limited interface: Many of the AIIB’s early projects were co-funded with the World Bank or the ADB, and its capacity to evaluate projects was initially limited. The share of co-funded projects has decreased over time.

    India’s Rationale for Joining AIIB

    • China’s renewed focus on Multilateralism: India was satisfied with the AIIB’s focus on multilateralism, transparency, and adherence to laws.
    • Developed countries joining: The UK and Germany joined the AIIB despite the US discouraging its partners and allies from doing so. The membership includes countries such as Russia, Germany, South Korea, Australia, France, and the UK.
    • Green initiatives: The bank has largely tried to avoid politics and has focused on promoting green projects in the region.
    • Symbolic distancing from BRI: India joined the AIIB but decided not to participate in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

    Conclusion

    • Canada’s decision to halt its involvement in the AIIB highlights the importance of transparency and adherence to democratic principles in multilateral institutions.

    Back2Basics:

    Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)

    World Bank (WB)

    International Monetary Fund (IMF)

    Asian Development Bank (ADB)
    Year Established 2016 1944 1944 1966
    Headquarters Beijing, China Washington, D.C., United States Washington, D.C., United States Manila, Philippines
    Membership 100+ countries 189 countries 190 countries 68 countries
    Purpose Infrastructure financing in Asia Global development assistance Economic stability and growth Economic and social development in Asia-Pacific
    Capital $100 billion Not applicable Over $1 trillion $153 billion
    Focus Areas Infrastructure, sustainable growth Poverty reduction, development Economic stability, balance of payments, capacity development Infrastructure, poverty reduction, climate change adaptation
    Financing Mechanism Loans, equity investments, guarantees Loans, grants, technical assistance Financial assistance, policy advice Loans, grants, technical assistance
    Collaboration Partners with other multilateral development banks Collaborates with various institutions and organizations Collaborates with member countries and international institutions Collaborates with other development institutions, governments, and civil society organizations
    Geographical Focus Asia and beyond Global Global Asia-Pacific
    India’s Involvement Founding member, significant involvement and benefits Active participant, recipient of funding and technical assistance Member, recipient of financial assistance and policy advice Active participant, recipient of funding and collaboration

     

     

     

  • US-UK forge ‘Atlantic Declaration’ to boost ties

    atlantic

    Central Idea

    • The US and Britain have announced a new strategic pact called, reaffirming their “special relationship” to address challenges posed by Russia, China, and economic instability.
    • They signed Atlantic Declaration to develop a new green economy through extensive industrial subsidies instead of pursuing a post-Brexit free-trade agreement.

    What is Atlantic Declaration?

    • The “Atlantic Declaration” aims to enhance industry collaboration in defense and renewable energy sectors in response to China’s growing competition.
    • The declaration recognizes the challenges posed by authoritarian states, disruptive technologies, non-state actors, and transnational issues like climate change.
    • Both leaders affirmed the strength of the transatlantic relationship and emphasized the need to adapt to the changing world economy driven by AI and technological advancements.

    Key terms of the declaration

    • Supply Chain Strengthening: The US and UK will strengthen their supply chains, invest in each other’s industries, and develop future technologies under the Atlantic Declaration.
    • Clean Energy Partnership: They agreed to launch a civil nuclear partnership, aiming to promote clean energy cooperation and reduce reliance on Russian fuel.
    • Technology and Critical Minerals: The countries will collaborate on the safe development of AI technology, negotiate a critical minerals agreement, and cooperate on telecoms technology and quantum technologies.
    • UK-US “Data Bridge”: The declaration includes a commitment in principle to a UK-US “data bridge” that facilitates the transfer of data between British and US businesses without unnecessary bureaucracy.
    • Critical Minerals Agreement: Negotiations on a critical minerals agreement will allow certain UK firms to access tax credits available under the US Inflation Reduction Act.
    • Business Collaboration: Cooperation will extend to telecoms technology, including 5G and 6G, as well as quantum technologies, fostering collaboration and innovation between the US and UK.

  • Places: Kakhovka Dam in Ukraine

    kakhova

    Central Idea

    • Breach of the Dnipro River Dam: A Soviet-era Kakhovka Dam on the Dnipro River in southern Ukraine was breached, resulting in floodwaters spreading across the war zone.
    • Conflicting Accounts: Ukraine accused Russia of destroying the dam, while Russian officials provided differing explanations, suggesting Ukrainian shelling or prior damage as potential causes.

    The Kakhovka Dam

    • Construction and Purpose: The Kakhovka Dam was built in 1956 as part of the Khakhovka hydroelectric power plant, with a height of 30 meters (98 feet) and a length of 3.2 kilometres (2 miles).
    • Water Supply: The dam’s reservoir supplies water to the Crimean peninsula, claimed by Russia since 2014, and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which is also under Russian control.
    • Reservoir Capacity: The reservoir holds approximately 18 cubic km of water, comparable in volume to the Great Salt Lake in Utah, USA.

    Accounts of the Dam Breach

    • Ukrainian Accusations: Ukraine attributed responsibility to Russia, stating that the dam was destroyed by “Russian terrorists” and accusing Russian occupying forces of the act.
    • Russian Claims: Russian-installed officials offered conflicting accounts, with some blaming Ukraine for shelling the dam, while others asserted that the dam collapsed due to pre-existing damage and water pressure.

    Human Impact and Evacuations

    • Potential Flooding: The surge in water levels poses a significant risk, potentially impacting thousands of people in the affected areas.
    • Evacuations: Evacuation efforts commenced on both sides of the front line to ensure the safety of civilians.
    • Population at Risk: Russian-installed officials indicated that 22,000 individuals across 14 settlements in Ukraine’s southern Kherson region were at risk of flooding, while the Ukrainian Prime Minister noted that up to 80 settlements were in danger.

    Impact on Crimea

    • Water Supply Concerns: The rupture of the dam raises concerns about water levels in the North Crimea Canal, which supplies fresh water to the Crimea peninsula from the Dnipro River.
    • Dependence on Canal: Crimea depends on the canal for fresh water, and its previous blockage by Ukraine after the 2014 annexation caused water shortages in the region.
    • Potential Consequences: Decreased water levels in the canal could have significant implications for water supply in Crimea.

    Other hotspots under threat: Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

    • Cooling Water Source: The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe’s largest, relies on the reservoir as a source of cooling water.
    • Russian Control: The plant is located on the southern side of the conflict zone, which is currently under Russian control.
    • Nuclear Safety Assurance: The International Atomic Energy Agency stated that there was no immediate nuclear safety risk at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, and Russia’s state nuclear energy company affirmed that there was no threat to the plant.

    Try this question from CS Prelims 2023

    Consider the following pairs:

    Regions often mentioned in news: Reason for being in news

    1. North Kivu and Ituri: War between Armenia and Azerbaijan
    2. Nagorno-Karabakh: Insurgency in Mozambique
    3. Kherson and Zaporizhzhia: Dispute between Israel and Lebanon

    How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

    (a) Only one

    (b) Only two

    (c) All three

    (d) None

  • OPEC+ decision on Oil Supply cut

    opec

    Central Idea

    • Saudi Arabia has decided to decrease its oil supply to the global economy.
    • This unilateral action aims to stabilize the declining crude oil prices.
    • Previous efforts by major oil-producing countries within the OPEC+ alliance to cut supply did not yield desired price increases.

    What is OPEC+?

    • The non-OPEC countries which export crude oil along with the 14 OPECs are termed as OPEC plus countries.
    • OPEC plus countries include Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, South Sudan, and Sudan.
    • Saudi and Russia, both have been at the heart of a three-year alliance of oil producers known as OPEC Plus — which now includes 11 OPEC members and 10 non-OPEC nations — that aims to shore up oil prices with production cuts.

    Reasons for OPEC+ Production Cuts

    • Russian war: Oil prices rose significantly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
    • Previous major cut: The recent production cut is the largest since 2020 when OPEC+ members reduced outputs by 10 million barrels per day (bpd) during the Covid-19 pandemic.
    • Benefit to Middle Eastern states: The cuts are expected to boost prices, benefiting Middle Eastern OPEC+ members who have become significant oil suppliers to Europe after sanctions were imposed on Russia.

    Concerns for India

    • Fuel price hike: Despite importing cheap Russian oil, India has not seen a decrease in fuel prices.
    • Fiscal challenges: Rising oil prices pose fiscal challenges for India, where heavily-taxed retail fuel prices have reached record highs, threatening the demand-driven economic recovery.
    • Reliance on West Asian supplies: India imports about 84% of its oil and depends on West Asian countries for over three-fifths of its oil demand.
    • Potential impact on consumption-led recovery: India, as one of the largest crude-consuming countries, is concerned that production cuts by OPEC+ nations could undermine the country’s consumption-led economic recovery and negatively affect price-sensitive consumers.

    Back2Basics: Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)

    Description
    Founding September 14, 1960
    Member Countries Algeria, Angola, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela
    Goal Coordinate and unify petroleum policies among member countries, ensure stability and predictability in oil markets, secure fair returns on investment for member countries’ petroleum resources
    Production Quotas Set production limits for member countries to manage oil supply and stabilize prices
    Market Monitoring Monitor global oil market conditions, supply, demand, inventories, and prices
    OPEC Meetings Regular meetings held every six months for member countries to discuss and negotiate oil production and pricing policies
    Pricing Policy Historically used the “OPEC basket” concept – a weighted average price of crude oil blends produced by member countries
    Influence on Prices OPEC’s decisions and actions can impact global oil prices by increasing or decreasing production levels
    Diminished Influence OPEC’s influence on oil prices has reduced due to factors like the rise of non-OPEC oil production, changes in global energy markets, and geopolitical developments
    Non-OPEC Cooperation OPEC cooperates with non-OPEC countries, notably through the “OPEC+” group, which includes Russia, to collectively manage oil supply levels and enhance market stability

  • UAE withdraws from Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)

    Central Idea

    The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its withdrawal from the U.S.-led Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), a maritime coalition responsible for securing Gulf waterways crucial to global oil trade.

    What is Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)?

    Establishment 2002
    Location Bahrain
    Objective Promoting security, stability, and prosperity across maritime regions
    Member Nations Over 30 member nations
    Primary Task Forces Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150), Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151), Combined Task Force 152 (CTF 152)
    Operations Counter-terrorism, counter-piracy, maritime security, and cooperation
    Collaborations United Nations, European Union, NATO, and regional partners
    Contributions Naval assets including warships, aircraft, and maritime patrol vessels
    Focus Areas Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf, and surrounding areas

     

    Reasons for UAE’s withdrawal

    • UAE has not provided specific reasons for its withdrawal from the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) in the official statement.
    • One potential factor could be a desire to distance themselves from perceived dependencies or entanglements with the US.
    • This could be part of a broader strategy by the UAE to assert its own regional influence, pursue independent foreign policies, or rebalance its relationships with China and Iran.

    Recent incidents and tensions in Gulf Waters

    • In late April and early May, Iran seized two tankers, one of which was empty and travelling between the UAE ports of Dubai and Fujairah.
    • Iran was also accused of launching a drone attack on an Israeli-owned tanker in November 2022, escalating tensions with the United States.
    • As a response to increasing harassment by Iran, the US announced the deployment of reinforcements to the Gulf, a vital route for a significant portion of the world’s sea-borne oil.

     

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  • Shifting US Policy: From Decoupling to De-risking in China Relations

    china

    Central Idea

    • The US is transitioning its policy on China from decoupling to de-risking, signalling a new approach.
    • The EU has already adopted a de-risking approach in its China policy, and the G-7 summit also expressed consensus on de-risking.

    Understanding the De-risking

    • After establishing diplomatic ties in 1979, the US and China developed a deep economic interdependence, benefiting China’s global engagement.
    • China’s rise challenged US global clout and impacted its domestic industries.
    • The Trump administration initiated a “decoupling” strategy to address the techno-economic challenge from China.
    • The Biden administration continues with a modified approach, shifting from decoupling to de-risking.
    • De-risking focuses on resilient supply chains to ensure the US is not subjected to coercion from other countries.

    Rationale behind De-risking

    • Geopolitical Competition: China’s rise as a strategic competitor challenges US global influence, prompting de-risking to reduce vulnerabilities and maintain an advantage.
    • National Security: Concerns about risks like intellectual property theft and cyber threats lead to de-risking to safeguard sensitive technologies and protect national security interests.
    • Resilient Supply Chains: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in supply chains, driving the need for de-risking to ensure diversified and resilient networks.
    • Fair Trade Practices: De-risking addresses concerns over China’s trade practices, such as intellectual property infringement and forced technology transfers, aiming for fairer trade by diversifying partners.
    • Alliance Building: De-risking aligns with allies’ interests, promoting collaboration and a united front against China’s rise.

    Geopolitical Ramifications

    • De-risking for Stronger Alliances: The US adopts de-risking to strengthen alliances in its rivalry with China, as seen in the G-7 summit declaration.
    • China’s Skepticism: China views de-risking as disguised decoupling, shifting blame for risks to China.
    • Aligning with Decoupling and United Front: De-risking aligns with decoupling by diversifying supply chains, while fostering a united front among allies.
    • Uncertain Effectiveness: The effectiveness of de-risking is uncertain, influenced by China’s response and challenges in diversifying supply chains.
    • Short-Term Indo-Pacific Impact: De-risking may temporarily divert focus from the Indo-Pacific, necessitating a balance with maintaining a robust strategy in the region.

    Way forward

    • The de-risking approach should be further developed and coordinated with allies to effectively counter China’s rise.
    • Balancing the benefits of de-risking with the need to maintain a robust Indo-Pacific strategy is crucial.
    • Engaging in strategic dialogues and strengthening alliances can help shape a cohesive approach in addressing China’s influence while minimizing risks.

     

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  • ‘Route of Development’: Iraq’s Ambitious Infrastructure Plan

    iraq development

    Central Idea

    • Iraq aims to establish itself as a regional transportation hub by enhancing its road and rail infrastructure.
    • The ambitious project, known as the “Route of Development,” is estimated to cost $17 billion.

    Route of Development Project

    • Project Scope: The “Route of Development” will span 1,200 kilometers from the northern border with Turkey to the Gulf in the south.
    • Economic Objectives: The project aims to promote a sustainable non-oil economy and strengthen regional connectivity.
    • Port Capacity: The commercial port of Al-Faw will undergo expansion to handle cargo for the project.
    • Train Stations: Around 15 train stations will be constructed along the route, including major cities like Basra, Baghdad, Mosul, and up to the Turkish border.

    Challenges and Priorities

    • Infrastructure Condition: Iraq’s infrastructure, including roads, requires reconstruction and maintenance due to the impacts of war, corruption, and sanctions.
    • Focus on Electricity: Upgrading the failing electricity infrastructure is a priority for the government.

    Geopolitical Position and Economic Benefits

    • Strategic Geographical Location: Iraq aims to capitalize on its position by becoming a transportation hub for goods and people between the Gulf, Turkey, and Europe.
    • Port Expansion: The commercial port of Al-Faw will serve as a gateway for cargo before transportation through the new road and rail links.
    • Train Station Network: The construction of train stations in major cities along the route will facilitate efficient transportation.
    • Trade Opportunities: The Gulf presents significant trade prospects, especially in the transport of hydrocarbons.

    Challenges and Skepticism

    • Viability Concerns: Some experts question the project’s feasibility, highlighting the need for “fluidity” in transportation routes and the preference for direct shipping without intermediate loading and unloading.
    • Adaptation to Customer Preferences: Consideration should be given to evolving global transport dynamics and customer preferences.

     

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  • Rasht-Astara Railway Link

    rasht

    Russia and his Iran has signed a deal to finance and build the 162 km Rasht-Astara Iranian railway, the main connection in the emerging North-South Transport Corridor.

    Rasht-Astara Railway Link

    • The Rash Astra Railway is a 162-kilometer railway connecting Rasht (Iran) and Astara (Azerbaijan) on the border.
    • It is part of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and will significantly diversify global traffic flows.
    • The railway will facilitate connections between Russian ports on the Baltic Sea and Iranian ports in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf.

    About INSTC

    • The INSTC is a 7,200-kilometer Multi-Mode Transit System connecting India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe.
    • It promotes transportation cooperation among member states and includes ship, rail, and road routes.
    • Membership has expanded to include additional countries, and observer states and Baltic countries have expressed interest in joining.

    Significance of INSTC for India

    • Central Asia trade: India has invested in the Chabahar Port in Iran, which serves as a doorway for trade with Central Asian countries.
    • Extended connection: INSTC offers potential connections to the Baltic, Nordic, and Arctic regions.
    • Bypassing Pakistan: INSTC provides an alternate route for India to connect with Central Asia, bypassing obstacles in Pakistan.
    • Fastest freight: It reduces transit time by 40% and freight costs by 30% compared to the Suez Canal route.
    • Alternative to Suez: Russia claims the project could ultimately rival the Suez Canal in terms of trade flows.

    Challenges of INSTC

    • Challenges include limited financial support from major international institutions due to US sanctions on Iran.
    • Harmonization of tariffs and customs, increased private sector involvement, and improved informational connectivity are necessary for success.

    Conclusion

    • More financing, cooperation, political will, and strategic planning are required to realize the full benefits of INSTC.
    • Addressing demand deficits and enhancing informational connectivity are crucial.
    • Collaboration and the establishment of industrial parks and special economic zones can contribute to the corridor’s development and commercial value.

     

    Key terminologies

    Multi-Mode Transit System: A system that integrates multiple modes of transportation, such as ship, rail, and road, for efficient movement of goods.

    Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA): An agreement reached in 2015 between Iran and world powers regarding Iran’s nuclear program.

    Suez Canal: A major global trade route connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea.

    Chabahar Port: A port in Iran’s Sistan-Balochistan province, providing India with access to Central Asian countries.

    Baltic Countries: Countries located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, including Latvia and Estonia.

     

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  • Covid is no longer an Emergency: what changes?

    Central Idea: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared an end to the global emergency status for COVID-19. It had in 2020 declared the disease as Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

    Practical effects of WHO declaration

    • The classification of COVID-19 as a global emergency is meant to warn political authorities of an extraordinary event that could constitute a health threat to other countries and requires a coordinated response to contain it.
    • For the average person, the decision to end the global emergency classification will have no practical effect.
    • WHO’s emergency declarations are typically used as an international SOS for countries who need help or to spur countries to introduce special measures to combat disease or release extra funds.

    What is PHEIC?

    Definition: Under the International Health Regulations (IHR), a public health emergency is defined as “an extraordinary event which is determined, as provided in these Regulations: to constitute a public health risk to other States through the international spread of disease; and to potentially require a coordinated international response”.

    Emergencies declared so far

    • WHO has previously declared global emergencies for outbreaks of swine flu, Zika, Ebola, polio, and monkeypox.
    • Polio was declared nearly nine years ago, and its emergency status has persisted even as officials work to wipe out the disease from a shrinking number of countries.
    • MPOX was declared a global emergency last July but technically remains a global emergency.

    What criteria does the WHO follow to declare PHEIC?

    • PHEIC is declared in the event of some “serious public health events” that may endanger international public health.
    • The responsibility of declaring an event as an emergency lies with the Director-General of the WHO and requires the convening of a committee of members.

    Implications of a PHEIC being declared

    • There are some implications of declaring a PHEIC for the host country, which in the case of the coronavirus is China.
    • Declaring a PHEIC may lead to restrictions on travel and trade.
    • However, several countries have already issued advisories to their citizens to avoid travelling to China, while others are airlifting their citizens from it.

    Is COVID-19 still a pandemic?

    • Yes, COVID-19 is still a pandemic, as the virus is here to stay and thousands of people continue to die every week.
    • WHO chief Tedros warned that the risk remains of new variants emerging that cause new surges in cases and deaths.
    • Countries need to transition from emergency mode to managing COVID-19 alongside other infectious diseases.

    When will the COVID-19 pandemic end?

    • It is unclear when the COVID-19 pandemic will end, as the virus is still a public health threat and its continued evolution could cause future problems.
    • Pandemics only truly end when the next pandemic begins.
    • COVID-19 will continue to spread among people for a very long time but at a much lower level of threat that does not require extraordinary measures taken to try to curb the virus’ spread.

     

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