elections - EIAS

Kishida’s Shaky Future: Navigating the LDP’s Uncertain Future

Will Kishida last? New polls show falling approval for the Japanese LDP Prime Minister. This closely mirrors the situation his predecessor Yoshihide Suga was in before him, ultimately leading to his resignation. While Kishida has made it clear that a new election is only due to take place in September 2024, how can potential risks and instabilities as a result of his dwindling support be mitigated by then and what can be envisioned for the future of EU-Japan relations?

Thailand’s Recent Election Results: A “Thai-breaker” or “Thai-Maker” for its Future Relationship with the EU?

On 14 May 2023, Thailand saw almost 40 million people head to the polls to vote in its first national election post-COVID, the largest turnout of any Thai election thus far. This election can be considered as one of the most significant political events in Thailand since the pro-democracy movement of the mid-1970s. Over 70 parties competed within the election, with over half of the votes going to two opposition parties: Move Forward and Pheu Thai. However, Thailand has found itself in a political stalemate as it still awaits the final outcome of the May election.

Philippine Elections: What Bongbong Marcos could mean for the EU?

As of 30 June 2022 Ferdinand Marcos Junior (Jr.), son of former Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Senior (Sr.) and Imelda Romualdez Marcos is now President of the Philippines after a landslide victory of 30.8 million votes. Known as “Bongbong” Marcos, the new President led a highly criticised campaign abound with disinformation. With his running mate Sarah Duterte – daughter of outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte – securing the Vice-Presidency, traditional political dynasties are still prominent in Philippine politics.

The French EU Presidency and Upcoming Elections in a Fragile International Context

France has assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU since 1 January 2022, following Slovenia’s term. In a speech delivered on 9 December 2020, French President Emmanuel Macron underlined the necessity for a “European response” in facing both health and economic challenges, the rise of aggressive powers, climate change and global warming.

Japanese Politics After Suga: Who is Fumio Kishida?

Who is Fumio Kishida, the new leader of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party succeeding Yoshihide Suga after his stepping down as Prime Minister? Standing for the 31 October 2021 general elections we look ahead and assess who he is and what he represents within the party and for the country.