Monday Memo | Sanctions, Foreign Support, Escalation Concerns

Africa

“Kenya doctor strike: The public caught between the medics and the government”

A month-long doctor’s strike severely impacts the country’s hospitals, leaving patients without critical care. The doctor’s strike stems from massive pay disputes and the failure to hire trainee doctors, issues that exacerbate an already strained healthcare system and leave doctors and medical students without jobs or regular pay. Click link to read more.

^{By Basillioh Rukanga via The BBC, published April 15, 2024}

“Sudan’s horrific war is being fueled by weapons from foreign supporters of rival generals, UN says”

The year-long conflict between rival military factions in Sudan has resulted in thousands dead, widespread displacement, and famine. External support, including from countries like Egypt and Russia, exacerbates the situation, with warnings of potential war crimes and genocide in Darfur. The UN political chief states that the conflict is fueled by weapons supplied by foreign actors that flout UN sanctions and prolong the conflict. Click link to read more.

^{By Edith M. Lederer via Associated Press, published April 19, 2024}

Asia and the Pacific

“Biden is hosting Japan’s Kishida. But the Nippon Steel deal is not on the agenda”

President Biden met with the Prime Minister of Japan at the White House before a trilateral summit of the Philippines, Japan, and the US. Over 70 “deliverables” were discussed to bolster relations between Japan and the US and counter Chinese influence. The recent debate over the deal for the ownership of U.S. Steel was largely avoided, but it remains a concern for both parties. Click link to read more.

^{By Deepa Shivaram and Franco Ordoñez via NPR, published April 10, 2024}

“Singapore PM Lee to step down on May 15 and hand power to his deputy”

After two decades as prime minister, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, 72, will step down on May 15 and hand power to his deputy Lawrence Wong, 51. Lee, the eldest son of Lee Kuan Yew, started his term in 2004. His original plan to step down before turning 70 was laid aside because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Click link to read more.

^{Via AP News, published April 15, 2024}

Europe

“EU to tighten Iran sanctions after Israel attack”

The European Union has agreed to expand sanctions on Iranian drone and missile producers following the Iran-Israel conflict. The decision came during a summit in Brussels, where leaders discussed measures to further isolate Iran. The United States hinted at imposing its own penalties soon, which would target the IRGC, the Iranian defence ministry, and the missile and drone program. Click link to read more.

^{By Hannah Ritchie via The BBC, published April 17, 2024}

“Ukraine war: Nato pledges more advanced air defences to Kyiv”

NATO has pledged to provide Ukraine with more advanced air defense systems following urgent appeals from Kyiv and deadly Russian attacks. Ukrainian president Zelensky emphasized the need for additional Patriots or similar air defense systems to protect cities amid escalating tensions. Ukraine remains reliant on Western military aid to counter Russia’s advances in the region. Click link to read more.

^{By Jaroslav Lukiv via The BBC, published April 19, 2024}

Latin America and the Caribbean

“Argentina court blames Iran for deadly 1994 bombing of Jewish center”

The highest criminal court in Argentina has ruled that Iran is responsible for the suicide bomber who attacked a Jewish community center in 1994, resulting in casualties and fatal injuries. This ruling was celebrated by many, including President Javier Milei, because it signified accountability for the perpetrators, as well as judicial protection and justice for the victims. Click link to read more.

^{Via The Guardian, published April 12, 2024}

“Ecuador weighs security, international arbitration in latest referendum”

In the lead-up to potential re-election, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa is pushing for an 11-part referendum to address issues ranging from security to international arbitration. The proposals include militarizing the police, harsher penalties for crimes, and adopting arbitration for international financial disputes. Critics express concerns about potential human rights violations and economic consequences. Despite widespread support for the referendum, critics express doubts about its effectiveness in addressing Ecuador’s security crisis and economic challenges. Click link to read more.

^{By Michele Bertelli via Al Jazeera, published April 19, 2024}

Middle East

“World urges ‘de-escalation’ after drones shot down over Iran”

After Iran shot down three drones over Isfahan, multiple countries call for de-escalation in the region. Among those urging restraint are the United Nations, the European Union, the G7, and multiple individual nations. The situation highlights global concerns over the potential consequences of conflict between Israel and Iran. Click link to read more.

^{Via Al Jazeera, published April 19, 2024}

“Several killed in Israel raid on West Bank as US, EU sanction more settlers”

Five Palestinians were killed in an Israeli military raid targeting resistance fighters in the Nur Shams refugee camp in the West Bank. Since the attack on October 7, there has been an increase in violence in the West Bank between Palestinians and Israeli military and settlers. The EU and the US are continuing to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers and on settler organizations in the occupied territory. The sanctions target groups and individuals who are considered “extremist” and have violated the rights of Palestinians. Click link to read more.

^{Via Al Jazeera, published April 19, 2024}

North America

“Biden calls for tripling tariffs on Chinese metals”

The White House proposed increasing a key border tax on a fraction of steel and aluminum imports from an average 7.5% to 25%. China has denounced this proposal and described the US as “politicising trade issues.” The International Monetary Fund warned that this proposal could negatively impact inflation, which Biden has rejected. This proposal comes as Biden is seeking to shore up support from working class voters ahead of the 2024 election. Click link to read more.

^{Via The BBC, published April 17, 2024}

“House on the brink of approving Ukraine and Israel aid after months of struggle”

The House is gearing up for a rare Saturday session to pass $95 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and other allies. Despite months of debate and Republican skepticism, bipartisan support has emerged amid concerns over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. House Speaker Mike Johnson, facing challenges within his own party, sees the aid package as crucial for demonstrating America’s strength and supporting allies in the face of regional conflicts. Click link to read more.

^{By Stephen Groves and Lisa Mascaro via Associated Press, published April 20, 2024}

Happening This Week

Wednesday, April 24, 2024 – Thursday, April 25th, 2024, 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM ET

Join the conference “The Ties That Bind: Black Atlantic Muslims and African Islamic Intellectual Heritage,” exploring the pivotal roles of Black Atlantic and African Diaspora Muslims in transmitting and preserving Africa’s Islamic heritage. (RSVP)

Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 2:00 PM- 3:30 PM ET

Join the Institute for Public Knowledge and the Global New Right Working Group for a lecture with Gabriella Coleman. Explore the distinct dynamics of Anonymous and the alt-right, their digital activism roots, and the critical cultural and historical insights they offer. (RSVP)

Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 6:00 PM- 7:15 PM ET

Join a discussion on Manila’s socio-ecological interactions with Laguna Lake and the broader environmental challenges in Southeast Asia, featuring insights from Kristian Karlo Saguin’s award-winning research. (RSVP)

Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 5:15 PM- 6:30 PM ET

Join Prof. Dana Burde in a discussion with NYT East Africa Correspondent Abdi Latif Dahir about the impact of conflict on educational institutions in East Africa. They will explore the severe effects on schools from Sudan to Uganda and share stories of resilience and reconstruction efforts to provide education amidst conflict. (RSVP)

Career Development Opportunities

NYU Female Founders Fellowship Application

The NYU Female Founders Fellowship supports NYU entrepreneurs focused on gender equity in entrepreneurship with training, mentorship, and networking. Participants can join Female Founders Circle and Female Founders Fellows cohorts, and graduates can apply for up to $30,000 in loan alleviation grants. Applications for the Fall ’24 cohort are open until May 13th at 6pm.

General Intern in International Affairs

The NYC Mayor’s Office for International Affairs is seeking an intern to assist with diplomatic and international issues. Key responsibilities include researching, drafting memos, engaging with the diplomatic community, and providing logistical and digital media support. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the city’s international relations and gain experience within the executive branch under Mayor Eric Adams.

Central American Minor (CAM) AOR Internship

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) offers a Central American Minor (CAM) AOR Internship, focused on processing affidavits for the CAM Family Reunification Program, a legal pathway for families from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. This 6-month internship, starting in June or July 2024 with options for part-time or full-time engagement and a potential extension to 1 year.

Kosovo International Summer Academy 2024: Peace Building in Post-Conflict Areas

Applications are open for the Kosovo International Summer Academy, focusing on Diplomacy, Leadership, and Negotiations in post-conflict areas. This program will feature lectures by esteemed professors, diplomats, and civic leaders on a variety of topics. Two sessions: Part I from July 15-25 and Part II from August 5-15, 2024, in Prishtina, Kosovo. Scholarships available; apply by June 14 for Part I and June 21 for Part II.