On July 9, 2025, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi spearheaded a major protest by the Mahagathbandhan coalition in Bihar. Dubbed the “Bihar Bandh,” the action included road blockades and tyre burning, demanding the rollback of the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The alliance alleges the process will disenfranchise voters by removing millions due to stringent document requirements, raising concerns about election fairness and inclusion. This protest comes amidst heightened political tension in the state, ahead of crucial impending elections.
Trump-EU Talks Intensify with Tariff Proposal
U.S. President Donald Trump met with EU leaders, describing them as “very nice” during ongoing trade negotiations. Nevertheless, he floated a 10% baseline tariff proposal for Europe, which raised strong objections from Germany and Sweden, citing harm to exporters. He also threatened an additional 10% duty for countries joining the BRICS alliance. The prospect of cutting a “mini deal” by August 1 remains uncertain, maintaining market and diplomatic volatility.
ICJ to Issue Climate Change Advisory Opinion
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is set to publish a nonbinding advisory opinion on climate obligations on July 23. Small island nations have urged a more stringent legal responsibility for major emitters. Although not legally enforceable, the decision may significantly influence climate litigation and policy direction globally
Why These Stories Matter
- Democracy and Electoral Fairness: The Bihar protests spotlight growing skepticism about electoral process integrity in India.
- Global Trade Stability: ASEAN unity is critical in the face of disruptive U.S. protectionism.
- U.S.–Europe Relations: Trump’s tariffs illustrate ongoing tension within key Western allies, affecting investment and political alliances.
- Strategic Diplomacy: Treasury representation choices and tariff stances highlight broader geopolitical bargaining.
- Climate Accountability: The ICJ’s upcoming opinion may mark a milestone moment for climate justice movements and global accountability frameworks.
Malaysian PM Urges ASEAN Unity Amid U.S. Tariff Threats
- In Kuala Lumpur, during the ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting, Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim called for stronger intra-ASEAN trade integration. The gathering responded to recent U.S. tariffs of 25–40% targeting several Southeast Asian nations. Only Vietnam secured reductions. Anwar and ASEAN leaders described unilateral tariffs as “counterproductive,” emphasizing the need for solidarity as geopolitical rivalries threaten economic cohesion. Meanwhile, the region faces simultaneous challenges in maritime security, border disputes, and refugee flows.
U.S. Treasury Skips G20 Amid Strategic Shifts
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will skip the upcoming G20 finance ministers meeting in South Africa, instead attending World Expo 2025 in Osaka. Acting Undersecretary Michael Kaplan will represent the U.S. at the G20. Bessent’s absence reflects rising geopolitical tensions and U.S. threats of tariffs on South African exports, signaling a shift in strategic priorities
What to Watch Next
| Story | What to Monitor |
| Bihar Roll Revision | The Supreme Court is set to hear roll challenges on July 10 will legal pressure alter the EC’s approach? |
| ASEAN Response | Any new trade collaboration or tariff avoidance strategies emerging from Kuala Lumpur. |
| Trump–EU Deal Outcome | Will negotiations avert a formal tariff rollout on August 1? |
| G20 in South Africa | Will U.S.-South Africa tensions play out, or shift at the summit? |
| Climate ICJ Opinion | Legal experts suggest the July 23 advisory may shape future global climate policy frameworks. |
