EUROPE

Many European officials were taken aback after the February 2025 Oval Office meeting between American President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, wondering why an American president would seemingly side with Russia over Ukraine. However, France foresaw this situation six decades ago and has used this uncertainty to position itself as the leader of a strategically independent Europe. Nevertheless, the challenge for France is to reconcile its desire for a global France with that of a global Europe.

The Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) is one of many examples of former colonial powers continuing to exert influence over their former colonies. However, for the OIF to remain relevant in 2024, it must become less France-centric.

Across Northern Ireland, Liberia, and now Israel/Palestine, women peacebuilders use peace as a strategy in the face of conflict.