By Zahra Ali - Pakistan  The ascendancy of microstates forces us to turn the page back to a time when global power was treated as a prize reserved for the largest states; the ones with vast land, huge armies, and endless economies. This belief, and still does, shapes alliances, policies and the world’s understanding of the concept of influence itself. But that old notion is cracking quietly and steadily. Today, microstates are stepping into spaces once guarded by giants, rewr

By Ayesha Adeel – Pakistan International aid is one of the most important tools used in global programs to combat poverty, mitigate the aftermath of disasters, and promote economic development in the developing world.  However, whether reliance on external aid actually sacrifices the independence of aid-receiving countries is a moot point. International aid supporters emphasize aid can spur development, create and strengthen institutions, and allow effective responses to emer

By Tara Chareonsilp - Thailand In the opening moments of Princess Mononoke  (1997), a monstrous, writhing boar god—corrupted by an unseen...