Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
02 January 2025 | 11:49 CAT

Shifting tides in global alliances: As BRICS gains momentum and nations like France and Germany navigate economic challenges, 2025 promises a redefining year for international relations. (File-photo / LinkedIn)

As the world transitions into 2025, pressing concerns about global stability, economic adjustments, and shifting alliances are at the forefront. Speaking to Radio Islam International, Rehna Azim, a family law expert and international commentator, provided in-depth insights into these developments.

In the Middle East, Azim stressed the complexity of achieving peace in the region. She remarked, “It would be very easy to say, we want peace in the Middle East. Of course, everybody wants that. But what does that peace mean, and what does it mean for each group? Different groups want different things.” Azim explained that true stability requires addressing underlying issues, as the wounds in the region are deep and longstanding.

Turning to Europe, Azim reflected on the UK’s post-Brexit state, noting that rising costs overshadow Brexit’s broader consequences. She observed, “The person on the street wants to know why their food and energy bills are so high. They don’t necessarily relate it to Brexit but to the economy in general.” Similar concerns resonate in France and Germany, where citizens face economic and social challenges, seeking leadership to navigate turbulent times.

Azim also discussed Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency, predicting it will shape global narratives. She highlighted, “Americans want him to focus on immigration, violent crime, and reducing daily living costs. His campaign was about restoring pride in being American, and that sentiment is echoing across countries like Britain, France, and Germany.”

Regarding new alliances, Azim pointed to the growing influence of BRICS. She stated, “The UN is losing its power and credibility, and groups like BRICS, united by shared interests, are gaining traction. As their numbers grow, so does their potential power.”

Azim also noted a transformative shift in media consumption. “The internet won Trump’s election, not the mainstream media. People are turning to smaller outlets and podcasts, seeking a broader range of opinions.” This, she suggested, represents a profound change in global communication and governance.

Azim concluded by saying, “2025 promises both challenges and opportunities. It’s a year where nations and alliances must redefine their paths in an evolving global landscape.”

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Rehna Azim, a family law expert and international commentator.