The hottest World Politics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Top Links 374 The new armaments boom, how to build places for people to live, Eswanti's ship register & Marx to Darwin

Chartbook • 357 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Housing Evolution
  1. The post highlights topics like the new armaments industry, urban planning, and Eswatini's ship registry.
  2. The Chartbook Newsletter by Adam Tooze offers valuable insights and content on various subjects.
  3. The post includes links to intriguing content, like a piece on Yozo Hamaguchi's art and a paid subscriber section.

Did China Destroy Globalization?

Japan Economy Watch • 239 implied HN points • 22 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Globalization Trade Protectionism Populism Economic Policy
  1. Globalization has not been destroyed, but governments in the US and Europe are facing challenges in pursuing new trade agreements due to protectionism.
  2. Blaming China for rising protectionism overlooks the main issues, such as technological advancements and the shift towards services, leading to a decline in manufacturing jobs.
  3. Importance lies in addressing the root causes of worker distress, like job loss and wage suppression, with adjustments and mechanisms to alleviate these challenges.

Move over democracy

The Global Jigsaw • 79 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Democracy AI Politics Governance Elections
  1. People are losing trust in traditional democratic systems and are open to the idea of rule by artificial intelligence.
  2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is seen as potentially more efficient than human decision-making, especially in complex situations like policy-making.
  3. The concept of rule by algorithm (algocracy) or AI is gaining traction, with some believing that it could lead to better outcomes than traditional democratic processes.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Why is US easing some sanctions on Venezuela? Economic blackmail, oil, Russia

Geopolitical Economy Report • 279 implied HN points • 26 May 22
🌍 World Politics Sanctions Venezuela US Policy Oil Russia
  1. The US is easing some sanctions on Venezuela mainly due to economic reasons such as the ban on Russian oil and the necessity to stabilize energy prices.
  2. The situation in Venezuela shows that many oppose US sanctions, regardless of their political affiliation, and the sanctions have had severe negative economic impacts on the country.
  3. The US strategy towards Venezuela aims to force economic concessions from the socialist government through hybrid warfare, rather than achieving regime change.

Chinese Chess

Diane Francis • 379 implied HN points • 04 Jul 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Human Rights Political Systems Democracy
  1. The handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997 was met with mixed emotions, and many people felt that the promised freedoms were never truly kept. Instead of a democratic system, China imposed its authority and control over the region.
  2. Over the years, Hong Kong has faced serious issues like a decline in human rights, a growing wealth gap, and crumbling living conditions for many residents. These problems have led to a loss of faith in its future as a financial center.
  3. Despite its challenges, Hong Kong remains important as a gateway to China for investments. However, due to continuous repression, many educated individuals are leaving, which threatens its status and stability.

UN and NATO Fail

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 07 Apr 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Global Governance Conflict resolution Diplomacy
  1. The UN Security Council is flawed because the countries in power can block any action against themselves. This makes it tough to hold countries like Russia accountable for their actions.
  2. NATO's requirement for unanimous approval among its members means that one country can stop any agreement. This creates a situation where important decisions can't be made, even if most countries agree.
  3. Despite clear evidence of war crimes, the international community struggles to punish such actions because of the veto power held by influential countries. This allows leaders like Putin to act without fear of consequences.

Putin's genocidal myth

Thinking about... • 361 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Historical revisionism Geopolitics Nationalism Genocide Russian history Soviet Union Historical revisionism
  1. Putin's narrative about eternal Russia leads to war, genocide, and fascism.
  2. Putin's selective view of history distorts facts and justifies aggressive actions like invading neighbors and committing genocide.
  3. Putin's attempt to rewrite history to fit his narrative is dangerous and leads to a distorted view of the past that justifies atrocities.

Slouching towards dystopia in London

Wrong Side of History • 384 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Housing Crisis London Wealth Inequality
  1. The gap between rich and poor in London is widening, leading to a dystopian portrayal in media and reflecting real housing crisis issues.
  2. London faces a severe housing crisis with 1.2 million people waiting for social housing, causing downstream consequences like overcrowding and undesirable living conditions.
  3. Housing costs in London are impacted by supply and demand imbalances, making the problem both complex and simple to understand.

China launches Global South economic alliance to challenge US 'unilateralism' and 'cold-war mentality'

Geopolitical Economy Report • 378 implied HN points • 21 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Alliance China US
  1. China is forming international alliances to counter US dominance and promote 'win-win cooperation'.
  2. The Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative aims to advance sustainable and people-centered development goals, including reducing poverty and achieving carbon neutrality.
  3. The economic alliance includes countries like Cuba, Venezuela, and others, challenging US hegemony and contributing to the emergence of a more multipolar world.

Saturday Commentary and Review #149

Fisted by Foucault • 421 implied HN points • 09 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Europe Global Conflict International relations Government Historical Events
  1. Saudi royals prefer Israel over Hamas due to long-standing concerns about Islamism threatening their rule.
  2. The collapse of Austria-Hungary spawned unique literature reflecting on the loss of the empire.
  3. Bellingcat, known for open source intelligence, has been revealed to collaborate with Western intelligence agencies.

Europe's Troubles Are Just Begining

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 10 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International Law Security Europe US Policy Middle East War
  1. Europe looks set to face growing instability as the Ukraine war and other geopolitical pressures continue to unfold.
  2. Some political leaders are seeking legal shortcuts like asking for pardons before convictions, which undermines norms of justice and accountability.
  3. The U.S. policy of killing people in small boats near Venezuela is highly controversial and hard for officials to defend, and staying outside the ICC limits the risk of international prosecution.

Time to Double Down

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 31 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Security Foreign Policy
  1. Russia is being described as a criminal organization driven by a passionate leader. They seem focused on taking control of parts of Ukraine.
  2. The message emphasizes the need for a strong response to aggression, implying that weakness won't lead to good outcomes.
  3. There's a sense that the situation calls for serious commitment and action, rather than avoiding tough choices.

Spain's spy agency backed 2017 'ISIS' attacks to 'scare' Catalonia before independence referendum

Geopolitical Economy Report • 378 implied HN points • 17 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Espionage Terrorism Independence Intelligence Government
  1. Spain's spy agency allegedly supported 2017 'ISIS' attacks in Catalonia to intimidate the region before an independence referendum
  2. The terror attacks caused 16 deaths and over 150 injuries, with the leader of the terror cell being a longtime informant for Spain's National Intelligence Center (CNI)
  3. There is ongoing debate on whether the CNI directly orchestrated the attacks, but evidence suggests the agency facilitated them to create a sense of threat for Catalonia

Europe's Moment of Truth

Comment is Freed • 109 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict analysis Military Affairs Geopolitics
  1. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is very important for Europe and needs careful analysis. It's crucial to rely on trustworthy sources and check what key players are saying to understand their priorities.
  2. Conflicts evolve in stages, so it's not wise to make firm predictions about the future. Instead, it's better to explore possible developments based on the current situation.
  3. Recent changes in U.S. support, especially Trump's comments about Zelensky, create uncertainty for Ukraine. This makes it vital to stay informed about how negotiations with Russia may influence future support.

Is Sanctioning Russia Permissible?

Going Awol • 39 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Sanctions Russia Ukraine Ethics International Law
  1. The success of sanctions on Russia depends on their goal, such as hindering Putin's ability to fund his armed forces and increasing Ukraine's chances of winning.
  2. Sanctioning state officials involved in an unjust war is easier to justify compared to sanctions that harm innocent citizens.
  3. Imposing moderate economic sanctions on Russia, even if it harms innocent citizens, can be morally permissible if the goal is to prevent further harm and the burden is not excessively high.

Occupying Europe without Troops

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 14 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Military Strategy Diplomacy Conflict resolution
  1. The situation with Russia and Ukraine is tense, with uncertainty about a possible invasion. Countries like France and Germany are trying to negotiate with Putin while others have pulled their diplomats out.
  2. Ukraine's leaders are considering not applying to join NATO, which could change the dynamics of their security relations. This decision is being discussed amid rising pressure from Russia.
  3. The reactions from various nations highlight the complexities of international diplomacy and the differing strategies to handle the crisis in Europe.

The Muslim World Has Failed the Uyghur

Pen>Sword • 139 implied HN points • 11 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Genocide Islam Diplomacy Human Rights Propaganda
  1. Muslim-majority governments and leaders have failed to support the Uyghur Muslims facing persecution in China.
  2. Some imams and scholars are using Islam to justify the genocide and horrors inflicted on the Uyghur people.
  3. The Uyghur diaspora and author Khaled A. Beydoun strongly condemn the Muslim nations and leaders who are supporting China's propaganda against the Uyghurs.

Davos Impressions and Ukraine: Dealing with a Cult

Phillips’s Newsletter • 124 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Global Issues Conflict Studies Political Analysis
  1. Visiting Davos can give insights into the current global situation, though the information may not be completely reliable. It helps in understanding different perspectives on important issues.
  2. There's a perception that American views on Ukraine are somewhat cult-like, focused mainly on understanding their leader's thoughts. This can create a narrow viewpoint.
  3. European leaders seem to recognize the danger of this mindset surrounding Ukraine but often try to appease it instead of addressing the underlying issues.

Venezuela and Iran sign 20-year cooperation plan, Maduro pledges joint 'anti-imperialist struggle'

Geopolitical Economy Report • 259 implied HN points • 12 Jun 22
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Alliances Sanctions Resistance Geopolitics
  1. Venezuela and Iran signed a 20-year cooperation agreement focusing on energy, technology, and trade, emphasizing an 'anti-imperialist struggle.'
  2. The agreement covers various sectors like science, technology, agriculture, oil and gas, petrochemicals, tourism, and culture.
  3. This pact showcases a trend of South-South cooperation against Western imperialism, with Iran and Venezuela facing common challenges like unilateral US sanctions.

Top Links 385 China's vanishing statistics, Mexico's investment boom, why German carmakers don't want tariffs on Chinese EV & the Rangoon School

Chartbook • 329 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Activism History
  1. The post highlights various topics like China's vanishing statistics, Mexico's investment boom, why German carmakers dislike tariffs on Chinese EVs, and the Rangoon School.
  2. Adam Tooze's Chartbook Newsletter includes interesting links, readings, and images.
  3. The featured portrait is of General Aung San, a significant Burmese politician and independence leader who was tragically assassinated before he could see Myanmar gain independence from British rule.

Iran: Necessity and Opportunity

The Reactionary • 54 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Nuclear policy Conflict resolution Middle East
  1. The cease-fire between Israel and Iran is currently holding after Israel conducted strikes on Iranian military targets. This conflict, described as the '12 Day War', shows the complex relationship between both nations.
  2. Israel's strikes aimed to ensure that Iran does not develop nuclear weapons, which they see as a serious threat. The timing of these strikes was crucial, as Iran's defenses were weakened, giving Israel a strategic advantage.
  3. The outcomes of the strikes are still being assessed, but initial reports suggest significant damage to Iran's nuclear capabilities. This might delay their nuclear program for years, but the full impact remains to be seen.

Chris Hedges on MOATS: Catastrophe for the Palestinians and the Region

The Chris Hedges Report • 137 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Middle East Human Rights Political Analysis
  1. The situation for the Palestinians is dire, leading to increased suffering and instability in the region.
  2. There are significant consequences for neighboring countries as the conflict escalates, potentially affecting their security and politics.
  3. Understanding this issue requires recognizing the historical context and ongoing impact on people's lives in the affected areas.

Ukrainian leftist criticizes Western war drive with Russia: US is using Ukraine as ‘cannon fodder’

Geopolitical Economy Report • 318 implied HN points • 20 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Ukraine Russia US government Civil War Geostrategy
  1. The US government has a history of meddling in Ukraine, backing coups, and fueling a civil war to advance political and economic interests.
  2. Neo-Nazis have significant influence in Ukraine's state security services, despite not directly running the government, which can impact decision-making and escalate tensions.
  3. Western sanctions, anti-Russian xenophobia, and demonization only hurt the working-class people in Russia and the US, creating additional hardships and making life harder for average individuals.

Calling Vlad's Bluff

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 13 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict Diplomacy Security International relations
  1. Many people are not worried about the possible Russian invasion of Ukraine because they have other pressing issues, like rising gas prices and COVID-19. It shows how different countries prioritize their concerns.
  2. In Western Europe, there is a strong sense of disbelief about Putin's actions due to the trauma from past world wars. This reflects a hesitant attitude towards viewing Russia as a real threat.
  3. The idea that Russia is engaging in a 'slow-motion hybrid war' is becoming more accepted, but not everyone sees it as a significant danger yet. People seem to underplay the risks involved.

Why Science Dominates China’s Political Culture

ChinaTalk • 429 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics China Political culture Nationalism Ideology
  1. Science is a national quest in China, driven by nationalism, with a focus on achieving technological advancement and international prestige.
  2. China's modernization history saw the concept of science elevated from a mere tool to a grand narrative that influences the evaluation of national power.
  3. The CCP's focus on science and technology as a central value raises questions about the impact of scientism on China's future progress and international relations.

Russia after the war

Klement on Investing • 4 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Defense Economy Sanctions Energy Macroeconomics
  1. Russia still earns a lot from oil and can keep fighting, but oil revenues are sliding and inflation is well above target, putting serious strain on public finances and ordinary people.
  2. Defence spending takes up a huge share of the budget, so when the war ends the country will either face mass job losses as the military-industrial complex is shut down or be tempted to find new conflicts to keep it running.
  3. Private businesses took on lots of loans during the sanctions, so a post-war inflation spike and central-bank rate hikes could trigger widespread loan defaults and a financial crisis.

US pushing war on China: Malaysia's ex PM explains imperialism's roots in capitalism

Geopolitical Economy Report • 199 implied HN points • 31 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Imperialism Capitalism Global South
  1. Malaysian ex-PM warns US is trying to start a war with China over Taiwan.
  2. Imperialism is described as rooted in capitalism, enabling economic exploitation of the Global South.
  3. There is a critique on unrestricted capitalism leading to monopolies, disinterest in social needs, and imbalance in trade relationships.

The African Century?

Surfing the Future • 39 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Demographics Africa Population Growth Migration
  1. Africa's population is projected to reach 40% of the world's population by 2100, having significant implications in various aspects.
  2. There's a generational shift happening in Africa as Baby Boomers recede, and younger generations come into power with different values and priorities.
  3. Despite potential migration desires, many young Africans want to stay in Africa to make a positive impact, potentially reshaping the continent's future.

West's neoliberal 'age of abundance' is over, as war and sanctions boomerang home

Geopolitical Economy Report • 199 implied HN points • 29 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Neoliberalism
  1. France's President Macron highlighted the end of an era of abundance, signaling a significant shift or crisis.
  2. Western wars and sanctions are starting to have negative consequences domestically, indicating the decline of neoliberal capitalism.
  3. Neoliberalism is facing a collapse as its foundational elements like cheap resources, labor, and debt are no longer sustainable.

Notes on the French Intifada

Wrong Side of History • 531 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics
  1. France's colonial legacy plays a huge part in the country's current problems
  2. France has difficulties assimilating children of immigrants from outside Europe
  3. The history of France with North Africa is a major factor in the country's ongoing struggles

Le Figaro Interview

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 27 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Foreign Policy International relations Security Diplomacy Europe
  1. An interview was published in Le Figaro Magazine on 12 December 2025. It was presented as a featured piece in that issue.
  2. High-resolution images of the interview are embedded and can be clicked to enlarge for easier reading.
  3. The post includes links and visible engagement counts (e.g., 132, 54, 26), indicating shares and reader interaction.

Sanction China's Silence

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 07 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Foreign Policy Security Studies Asia-Pacific
  1. China's silence during conflicts can raise concerns for global relationships. It shows how complex alliances and enmities really are in politics.
  2. Russia is a key resource supplier to China, but supporting Russia could alienate China's other important partners, especially in the West.
  3. It's important to recognize that wanting a stable relationship with Russia might not benefit China's global standing or its dealings with Western countries.

Pakistan warns of foreign-backed regime-change attempt, to disrupt China/Russia alliance

Geopolitical Economy Report • 299 implied HN points • 04 Apr 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Regime Change Foreign Relations International relations
  1. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan is facing a foreign-backed regime-change attempt due to his opposition to US foreign policy and his effort to strengthen Pakistan's relations with China and Russia.
  2. Khan's vocal support for Palestinian liberation and his anti-colonial voice on the international stage have made him a target for hostile global elites.
  3. The regime-change efforts in Pakistan reflect a geopolitical power play involving Western interests seeking to assert control and discipline Pakistan amidst its growing alliances with China and Russia.