Africa & Global Power

Abstract             The contemporary international system is undergoing a period of profound transformation marked by political instability, intensified geopolitical rivalry, and renewed debates over sovereignty and human rights. Recent global incidents—including armed conflict, disputed elections, protest movements, and economic competition—illustrate the erosion of post–Cold War norms and the emergence of a more fragmented global order. This article examines selected case studies from Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the global economic arena to analyze how domestic political crises increasingly generate international consequences. It argues that contemporary international affairs are defined by the interaction of internal state dynamics and external pressures, reshaping global governance and diplomatic practice. Keywords: International affairs, global order, human rights, geopolitics, sovereignty, diplomacy ...

    Introduction             Since its establishment in 1945, the United Nations (UN) has served as a cornerstone of global governance, navigating the complexities of international relations to foster peace, sustainable development, and human rights. Over the past eight decades, the UN has evolved from a post-World War II institution aimed at preventing global conflict into a multifaceted organization addressing diverse challenges, including peacekeeping, climate change, poverty alleviation, and human rights advocacy. This evolution reflects the UN's adaptability to shifting geopolitical landscapes and emerging global issues, yet it also raises critical questions about its effectiveness, legitimacy, and capacity to address contemporary crises. This article examines the historical development of the UN, focusing on its roles in peacekeeping operations, the advancement of sustainable development goals, and its advocacy for...