The world in early 2026: tensions and cooperation

Both long, standing tensions and new avenues for cooperation remain in early 2026. In some cases, borders have become tougher, for example with respect to new technologies, while other countries are winning diplomatic ground elsewhere, for example in space.J7

Developments to monitor

Japan‘s election already begins to reconfigure the securities alliances and trade relationships in East Asia.

India emphasizes collaboration in areas such as trade, defense and artificial intelligence with Malaysia during PM Narendra Modi‘s visit, showing a growing Asian standing in global breakthroughs.

The UK‘s internal political instability impacts upon its foreign policy and relation with the EU.

European regulators have targeted TikTok, pointing to this is as increasing the pace and prominence of the issue of technology regulation in international politics.

The United Nations has issued a warning on child abuse led by AIl urging for more global cooperation on the regulation of emerging technologies.

Prominent policy issues to watch out for are:...

An international rush to secure the mineral resources necessary for clean energy technologies and high, tech electronics.

Restoration of a new wave of Trade protectionism and global pressures upon tariffs.

In the middle of negotiations continued to be conducted on the issue of climate change, countries continue to negotiate reduction schemes for emissions.