Global Cinema Shines at the Oscars: Eligible Films

Spotlight on Global Cinema

Infographic highlighting the importance of global cinema and the International Feature Film category for the Academy Awards, featuring an Oscar statue, a globe, and film reel graphics.

Academy Unveils List of International Feature Films Eligible for the Upcoming Oscars

The Academy Awards are more than Hollywood’s annual celebration — they are a global stage where diverse voices converge. The International Feature Film category has become a powerful lens into the world’s cultural, political, and artistic landscapes. It is not just about cinema; it’s about understanding how storytelling reflects global identity and influence.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially announced the slate of feature films eligible for consideration in the International Feature Film category at the upcoming Academy Awards. This annual reveal marks the start of the Oscar season for global cinema, spotlighting outstanding storytelling and artistic excellence from filmmakers worldwide.

Each year, countries submit their best films for the category, and this newly announced list represents the diversity, creativity, and cultural richness of contemporary filmmaking. The eligible titles proceed to the following stages of the selection process, including shortlisting and final nominations.

The International Feature Film category remains one of the most anticipated sections of the Academy Awards, offering audiences a chance to discover compelling stories and cinematic voices beyond mainstream Hollywood. With this year’s submissions, the global film community once again showcases its ability to inspire, challenge, and captivate viewers across borders.

An Oscar statuette in front of various international flags, symbolizing global cinema.

Official Schedule

  • The Academy members from all branches have been invited to opt in to participate in the preliminary round of voting. The shortlist of 15 films will be announced on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
  • Preliminary voting for select categories of the 98th Academy Awards will begin on Monday, December 8, 2025, and end on Friday, December 12, 2025.
  • The shortlists for the 98th Academy Awards will be announced on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
  • Nominations for the 98th Academy Awards will be announced on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
  • The 98th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide.
A group of diverse individuals gazing at a gold Oscar statuette placed on a pedestal, surrounded by soft candlelight, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere.

Films Eligible for Consideration in the International Feature Film Category for the 98th Academy Awards

(Listed in Alphabetical Order by Country or Region)

Albania, “Luna Park”
Argentina, “Belén”
Armenia, “My Armenian Phantoms”
Australia, “The Wolves Always Come at Night”
Austria, “Peacock”
Azerbaijan, “Taghiyev: Oil”
Bangladesh, “A House Named Shahana”
Belgium, “Young Mothers”
Bhutan, “I, the Song”
Bolivia, “The Southern House”
Bosnia and Herzegovina, “Blum: Masters of Their Own Destiny”
Brazil, “The Secret Agent”
Bulgaria, “Tarika”
Canada, “The Things You Kill”
Chile, “The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo”
China, “Dead to Rights”
Colombia, “A Poet”
Costa Rica, “The Altar Boy, the Priest and the Gardener”
Croatia, “Fiume o Morte!”
Czech Republic, “I’m Not Everything I Want to Be”
Denmark, “Mr. Nobody against Putin”
Dominican Republic, “Pepe”
Ecuador, “Chuzalongo”
Egypt, “Happy Birthday”
Estonia, “Rolling Papers”
Finland, “100 Liters of Gold”
France, “It Was Just an Accident”
Georgia, “Panopticon”
Germany, “Sound of Falling”
Greece, “Arcadia”
Greenland, “Walls – Akinni Inuk”
Haiti, “Kidnapping Inc.”
Hong Kong, “The Last Dance”
Hungary, “Orphan”
Iceland, “The Love That Remains”
India, “Homebound”
Indonesia, “Sore: A Wife from the Future”
Iran, “Cause of Death: Unknown”
Iraq, “The President’s Cake”
Ireland, “Sanatorium”
Israel, “The Sea”
Italy, “Familia”
Japan, “Kokuho”
Jordan, “All That’s Left of You”
Kyrgyzstan, “Black Red Yellow”
Latvia, “Dog of God”
Lebanon, “A Sad and Beautiful World”
Lithuania, “The Southern Chronicles”
Luxembourg, “Breathing Underwater”
Madagascar, “Disco Afrika: A Malagasy Story”
Malaysia, “Pavane for an Infant”
Mexico, “We Shall Not Be Moved”
Mongolia, “Silent City Driver”
Montenegro, “The Tower of Strength”
Morocco, “Calle Malaga”
Nepal, “Anjila”
Netherlands, “Reedland”
North Macedonia, “The Tale of Silyan”
Norway, “Sentimental Value”
Palestine, “Palestine 36”
Panama, “Beloved Tropic”
Paraguay, “Under the Flags, the Sun”
Peru, “Kinra”
Philippines, “Magellan”
Poland, “Franz”
Portugal, “Banzo”
Romania, “Traffic”
Saudi Arabia, “Hijra”
Serbia, “Sun Never Again”
Singapore, “Stranger Eyes”
Slovakia, “Father”
Slovenia, “Little Trouble Girls”
South Africa, “The Heart Is a Muscle”
South Korea, “No Other Choice”
Spain, “Sirât”
Sweden, “Eagles of the Republic”
Switzerland, “Late Shift”
Taiwan, “Left-Handed Girl”
Tunisia, “The Voice of Hind Rajab”
Turkey, “One of Those Days When Hemme Dies”
Uganda, “Kimote”
Ukraine, “2000 Meters to Andriivka”
United Kingdom, “My Father’s Shadow”
Uruguay, “Don’t You Let Me Go”
Venezuela, “Alí Primera”
Vietnam, “Red Rain”

A diverse group of people gathered around a golden Oscar statue, with some individuals holding cameras and appearing to take photos.

A Global Stage for National Pride

Each country submits one film to represent its cinematic voice. This process is both competitive and symbolic:

  • National committees: Film boards and cultural institutions select the entry, often sparking debate at home.
  • Cultural diplomacy: A nomination signals recognition of a nation’s creative power.
  • Global resonance: Films rooted in local realities often strike universal chords, from family bonds to political struggles.
Close-up of vintage film reels illuminated by warm light, resting on a table with a strip of film visible.

Cinema Beyond Borders

International films prove that storytelling transcends language. Subtitles are not barriers but gateways. Consider the impact:

  • Japanese dramas: Exploring family and tradition with quiet intensity.
  • African thrillers: Tackling corruption and resilience with bold narratives.
  • Latin American documentaries: Preserving memory and confronting history with raw honesty.

These works remind us that cinema is a universal language of empathy.

A person wearing a hat stands in front of a bright display showcasing various movie posters.

Oscars as Cultural Diplomacy

Recognition at the Oscars is more than artistic validation — it reshapes global perception.

  • Parasite’s triumph: South Korea’s historic Best Picture win signaled a shift in cinematic power.
  • Visibility for smaller industries: Nominations elevate filmmakers from regions often overlooked.
  • Catalyst for dialogue: Films spark conversations on identity, politics, and history across borders.

Emerging Trends in Global Cinema

The international category is evolving, reflecting both tradition and innovation:

  • Hybrid storytelling: Documentaries infused with fiction, blurring reality and imagination.
  • Regional authenticity: Indigenous languages and traditions preserved on screen.
  • Cross-border collaborations: Co-productions pooling talent and resources across nations.

Why It Matters for Audiences

For viewers, these films are more than entertainment — they are windows into the human condition.

  • Empathy: Experiencing lives far removed from one’s own.
  • Understanding: Engaging with cultures beyond headlines.
  • Connection: Finding shared humanity in diverse narratives.
A group of people standing behind several golden Oscar statuettes in an elegant, warmly lit setting.

Closing Insight

The Academy Awards may be rooted in Hollywood, but their embrace of international cinema reflects a broader truth: the future of film is global. The International Feature Film category is not just about who wins — it’s about how cinema continues to unite, challenge, and inspire across borders.

— This post is also available on CitiTimes.com, another website that is run and edited by the author.

The Hague System: Simplifying Global Design Protection

100 Years of Design Excellence: A Look at the WIPO Hague System

The World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO) Hague System for the International Registration of Industrial Designs is celebrating its 100th anniversary, marking a century of streamlining global design protection. Established by treaty in The Hague in 1925, the system has evolved from a small European framework into a genuinely global mechanism that simplifies life for designers and businesses.

The treaty was signed in November 1925 in The Hague, Netherlands.

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is using the occasion to reflect on a century of global design protection, innovation, and international cooperation.

Infographic illustrating the evolution of the Hague System from 1925 to 1999, highlighting key milestones such as the establishment of the Hague Agreement and the introduction of the Nice Agreement.
Infographic illustrating the timeline of the Hague System's key milestones, including its establishment in 1925, adoption by WIPO in 1957, accession to the Protocol in 1999, and its 100th anniversary in 2025.

What is the Hague System?

The Hague System is an international mechanism that allows creators to secure and manage design rights simultaneously in multiple countries or regions through a single international application filed with WIPO.

  • Design Rights: It protects the appearance of a product, such as its shape, configuration, pattern, or ornamentation. It is generally known as an “industrial design.”
  • Centralized Filing: A single application, in one language (English, French, or Spanish) and one set of fees (paid in Swiss Francs), can be used to designate protection in numerous member countries.

Its global reach has expanded significantly from its initial 11 signatories in 1925 to 82 members covering 99 countries/jurisdictions today, including the European Union and the African Intellectual Property Organization. This growth underscores the system’s global impact and the interconnectedness of the design community.

Key Benefits for Designers and Businesses

The system’s core value lies in its simplicity, efficiency, and economy, allowing designers to focus more on creativity and less on administrative complexity.

  • Simplicity and Efficiency: One application replaces a whole series of separate national or regional filings, saving significant time and reducing bureaucracy. One application can include up to 100 different designs (provided they belong to the same Locarno Classification class).
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Filing one application and paying a single set of international fees (basic fee, publication fee, and designation fees) is generally more economical than filing and managing multiple separate applications.
  • Centralized Management: All administrative tasks, such as changes in ownership, name/address updates, and renewals, are managed centrally through WIPO. Renewals can be completed with a single request and payment of the fee.
  • Flexibility: Applicants can choose to delay the publication of their design for up to 30 months (subject to domestic law), which can be a critical strategy for businesses before a product launch.
  • Duration of Protection: The initial period of protection is five years, and it can be renewed for at least two additional five-year periods, guaranteeing at least 15 years of protection in most member states (and up to 25 years in some, like the EU).

A Century of Design & Innovation

The 100th anniversary serves as a testament to the Hague System’s adaptability and enduring relevance in the ever-evolving world of commerce and technology. Its evolution over the past century reassures us of its continued importance.

  • Evolution of Designs: The system has protected a vast range of creations, from 1920s fabrics and stationery to modern-day graphical user interfaces (GUIs), mobile phones, and green-tech equipment.
  • Iconic Registrations: Many well-known products have been protected through the Hague System, including the Sony PlayStation, the KITKAT bar, and the World Cup Trophy.
    In 2024, a record 27,161 designs were filed through the Hague System, a testament to its continued relevance and value to the global design community. This growth underscores the system’s adaptability and enduring importance in the world of commerce and technology.

Why It Matters

For Creators & Businesses

Design-intensive industries, such as textiles, garments, consumer goods, and electronics, can significantly benefit from the Hague System. It offers a streamlined process for protecting designs beyond your country, reducing duplication of filings, saving time and cost, and facilitating entry into export markets.

  • Using the Hague route can reduce duplication of filings in multiple countries, save cost/time, and make it easier to enter export markets.
  • It also signals that designers and firms can operate on a level playing field internationally by leveraging a global system-wide mechanism.

For policy / IP ecosystem

  • The Hague System promotes harmonisation of formalities and administrative procedures — this helps reduce fragmentation in design protection globally.
  • It encourages countries to align with international practices and thus increases predictability for rights-holders and users.
    The Hague System strengthens the global IP ecosystem by making design protection more accessible. This, in turn, supports innovation, creativity, trade, and investment. It’s a testament to the system’s commitment to fostering and protecting innovation, inspiring creators and businesses alike.

As WIPO Director General Daren Tang notes, the system supports the enduring human instinct to “blend function with beauty.” The Hague System continues to evolve, ensuring that the vital yet often lesser-known right of design protection keeps pace with technological advancements.

Source: The World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO)

Zohran Mamdani: Historic Mayor of New York City

Zohran Mamdani Elected Mayor of New York City: A Historic Milestone

Statue of Liberty with skyline in the background, symbolizing freedom and the spirit of New York City.

New York City has ushered in a new era of leadership with the election of Zohran Mamdani as its mayor, marking a historic moment in the city’s political landscape. Mamdani’s victory is notable not only for its generational significance but also for the cultural milestones it represents—he is the first Muslim, first Indian-origin, and first African-born individual to hold the office in the city’s history.

Born in Kampala, Uganda, Mamdani is the son of acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair and political scholar Mahmood Mamdani. His upbringing and education in the United States shaped his commitment to social justice, equity, and grassroots activism. Before his mayoral run, Mamdani served as a New York State Assembly member representing Queens, where he gained recognition for his advocacy on housing rights, public transit, and immigrant protections.

His campaign for mayor was built on a platform of affordability, inclusive governance, and progressive reform. Mamdani emphasized the need to address rising living costs, expand access to public services, and ensure that New York remains a city for all—not just the wealthy few. His message resonated with a broad coalition of voters across boroughs, leading to a decisive win in a crowded field of candidates.

Mamdani’s election reflects the evolving identity of New York City—a global hub shaped by immigrants, artists, and activists. His leadership promises to bring fresh energy to City Hall, with a focus on transparency, community engagement, and long-term resilience. As he prepares to take office on January 1, Mamdani faces the challenge of governing a city that is both deeply complex and full of possibility.

His victory is more than symbolic—it signals a shift toward inclusive representation and a renewed commitment to tackling the city’s most pressing issues. Whether in housing, climate policy, or public safety, Mamdani’s administration will be closely watched as a potential model for urban leadership in the 21st century.

Influential Figures Join UNESCO as Goodwill Ambassadors

UNESCO Welcomes Four New Goodwill Ambassadors

On October 28, 2025, UNESCO announced that Audrey Azoulay appointed four distinguished international personalities as new Goodwill Ambassadors, tasked with advancing UNESCO’s mission in education, culture, heritage, and innovation.

A choir of performers in white outfits singing on stage at the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand 2025, with a backdrop of flags from various countries and a large UNESCO banner.
Opening ceremony of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference. October 30, 2025. Image provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Firuz Tashpulatov.
A female and a male violinist performing together on stage, with international flags displayed in the background.
Opening ceremony of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference. October 30, 2025. Image provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Firuz Tashpulatov.

Meet the Appointees

  • Gael García Bernal (Mexico) – Actor, director, and producer; appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for Culture and Arts Education. He co-founded the documentary film initiative “Ambulante” and is deeply committed to using culture as a tool for social transformation.
  • Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi (UAE) – University president and publisher; designated as a Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture. She leads initiatives that promote reading, publishing, and youth innovation, particularly in her home emirate of Sharjah.
  • Ibrahim Magassa (Côte d’Ivoire) – Banker and philanthropist with experience in financing strategic projects across Africa; named Goodwill Ambassador for UNESCO’s “Global Priority Africa” segment. His personal journey includes participation in UNESCO’s educational programs.
  • Costantza Sbokou‑Constantakopoulou (Greece) – Architect and entrepreneur, and an advocate for Mediterranean cultural heritage; appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Protection and Promotion of Culture.

Why This Matters


In Azoulay’s words:

“These individuals embody the diversity of talents and backgrounds that enrich UNESCO’s work. Through their influence, creativity, and commitment, these Goodwill Ambassadors will help convey the Organization’s messages within civil society – among youth, innovators, researchers, artists, businesses, and all those shaping the world of tomorrow.”

This initiative demonstrates UNESCO’s strategy to expand its influence by collaborating with influential figures whose work encompasses education, culture, innovation, and social entrepreneurship. It reaffirms UNESCO’s core mission: to use culture and knowledge as tools for promoting peace, inclusion, and sustainable development.

What to Watch For

  • Each ambassador has a specific thematic focus area, such as arts education, book culture and literacy, Africa-youth innovation, and heritage protection, suggesting targeted initiatives in these domains.
  • Their global profiles and networks can help UNESCO reach new audiences, including youth, creative sectors, and private and philanthropic organizations.
  • The appointment highlights UNESCO’s commitment to promoting a diversity of voices from different continents, sectors, and perspectives.
  • For stakeholders in India and beyond, this presents opportunities for potential partnerships or programs that connect the ambassadors’ areas of expertise with UNESCO’s ongoing efforts at local and regional levels.

Conclusion

This announcement goes beyond a mere ceremonial gesture. By selecting four activist leaders from various sectors, UNESCO is enhancing its global influence through individuals who genuinely embody its values. For those of us interested in culture, education, and development, this presents opportunities for exciting collaborations, innovative campaigns, and new narratives that highlight global impact.

Source: UNESCO

The Future of Urban Living: People-Centered Smart Cities 2025

World Cities Day 2025: Building People-Centred Smart Cities

Illustration for World Cities Day featuring two pedestrians, one riding a bicycle, a bus, buildings, a smartphone with a location icon, and a wind turbine, emphasizing the theme 'People-centred Smart Cities'.

Every year on October 31, people around the world celebrate World Cities Day. This observance was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013 (Resolution A/RES/68/239). World Cities Day marks the conclusion of Urban October, a month dedicated to raising awareness about sustainable urban development and promoting dialogue on the future of cities.

In 2025, the theme is “People-Centred Smart Cities.” This theme highlights an important concept: although technology has the potential to transform urban life, the primary goal of innovation should be to enhance the lives of people. It’s not just about making cities more digital; it’s about making them more human.

Why Cities Matter

Cities are the heartbeat of our modern world. Currently, over 55 percent of the global population resides in urban areas, and this figure is projected to increase to nearly 70 percent by 2050. While rapid urbanization presents opportunities for economic growth, creativity, and cultural exchange, it also brings significant challenges.

Many cities are facing challenges such as inadequate housing, pollution, traffic congestion, rising inequality, and the effects of climate change. The purpose of World Cities Day is to encourage collaboration among governments, communities, and citizens to create urban spaces that are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11).

A vibrant urban scene with people walking in a modern city plaza surrounded by skyscrapers, green spaces, and public transport, highlighting a people-centred smart city environment.

2025 Theme: People-Centred Smart Cities

The idea of a “smart city” typically conjures images of sensors, data networks, and AI-driven systems. However, the 2025 theme offers a fresh perspective. “People-centered smart cities” focus on leveraging innovation with citizens at the core—ensuring that technology serves the needs of people, rather than the other way around.

A brilliant city:

  • Improves access to public services through digital inclusion.
  • Uses data to plan sustainable transport and reduce carbon emissions.
  • Ensures equitable access to affordable housing, healthcare, and green spaces.
  • Builds systems that are transparent, participatory, and responsive to citizens’ needs.

In summary, a people-centered approach harmonizes smart infrastructure with human values such as equity, empathy, and community engagement.

An infographic illustrating urban initiatives for World Cities Day, featuring sections on public transport, green spaces, affordable housing, and community gardens, with relevant icons and illustrations.

The Global Urban Picture

Cities around the world are implementing innovative and sustainable models. For example, Copenhagen is using renewable energy for its public transit, while Seoul is focusing on citizen-driven urban planning. In India, the Smart Cities Mission is driving urban innovation in over 100 cities, with a focus on projects related to digital governance, mobility, waste management, and water conservation.

However, technology alone cannot resolve urban challenges. To make cities truly livable, we must also address social and environmental issues. This includes reducing inequality, strengthening public health, improving air quality, and ensuring that urban growth does not come at the expense of nature.

How We Can Contribute

Everyone has a role in shaping the cities of the future:

  • Local governments should invest in data-driven and inclusive urban planning.
  • Businesses and innovators can develop affordable and sustainable technology solutions.
  • Universities and researchers can examine how digital systems impact human well-being.
  • Citizens can engage in community projects, promote public transport, and hold decision-makers accountable.

Small local actions—such as planting trees, reducing waste, and using shared transportation—can collectively lead to significant change when adopted by many.

A Vision for Tomorrow’s Cities

Imagine a city where clean energy powers every home, cycling and walking paths connect every neighborhood, digital services are accessible to all citizens, and public spaces bring people together rather than dividing them.

This is the essence of World Cities Day 2025—a reminder that smart cities are not just about data and devices, but about people, participation, and purpose.

Celebrating Diwali at the White House 2025

The White House Diwali

President Donald Trump participating in a Diwali celebration in the Oval Office, surrounded by attendees while a man lights a ceremonial lamp.
President Donald Trump participates in a Diwali celebration in the Oval Office with several attendees, including individuals in traditional attire and decorations including a floral arrangement.
President Donald Trump participating in a Diwali celebration in the Oval Office, surrounded by guests and decorated with a traditional floral arrangement.

Photos: President Donald Trump participates in a Diwali celebration, Tuesday, October 21, 2025, in the Oval Office. (Official White House Photo by Molly Riley).

Presidential Message on Diwali


The White House


October 20, 2025


Today, I send my best wishes to every American celebrating Diwali—the “Festival of Lights.”

For many Americans, Diwali is a timeless reminder of light’s victory over darkness. It is also a time to bring families and friends together to celebrate community, draw strength from hope, and embrace a lasting spirit of renewal. As millions of citizens light diyas and lanterns, we rejoice in the eternal truth that good will always triumph over evil.

To every American celebrating Diwali, may this observance bring abiding serenity, prosperity, hope, and peace.

Source: The White House

IMF’s Vision for a Transformative Future Amid Uncertainty

Building Resilience in an Uncertain World: IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva at the 2025 IMF & World Bank Annual Meetings

Washington, DC, October 21, 2025 — On October 17, 2025, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva delivered her speech at the Annual Meetings Plenary.

In an era increasingly characterized by unpredictable fluctuations, the leading official of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) called upon nations to prepare, adapt, and advance.

“I would like to convey today the collective insights of the IMF’s skilled and dedicated team, which represents 172 countries,” she stated as she commenced her address.

A chart depicting the World Sentiment and Uncertainty Indices from 2014 to 2025, showing high and rising uncertainty alongside stable sentiment.

Opening Remarks

Kristalina Georgieva began her address with warmth and optimism, acknowledging the contributions of global leaders and partners. She highlighted Cabo Verde’s cultural and sporting achievements, establishing a tone of unity and shared purpose. Her message emphasized that, despite global uncertainty, collaboration remains our greatest asset.

Graphic summarizing key themes from Kristalina Georgieva's speech at the 2025 IMF Annual Meetings, highlighting resilience in an uncertain economic landscape.

Global Economic Landscape

Georgieva provided a straightforward overview of the global economy:

  • Geopolitical tensions and climate-related challenges are putting resilience to the test.
  • Inflation and debt vulnerabilities continue to pose problems.
  • Economic recovery is uneven across different regions and income groups.

She maintained a tone that balanced realism with determination, urging nations to tackle these challenges directly.

Resilience as a Strategic Imperative

Georgieva emphasized that resilience is more than just endurance; it encompasses transformation. She defined it through three key pillars: economic adaptability, institutional strength, and social cohesion. Her call to action is to invest in fiscal discipline, promote inclusive growth, and implement climate-smart policies.

IMF’s Role in a Changing World

The IMF is evolving to meet new demands. Georgieva emphasized the following points:

  • Development of lending programs tailored to emerging risks
  • Capacity development for member nations
  • Introduction of new initiatives to strengthen global financial safety nets

She reiterated the IMF’s commitment to supporting vulnerable economies with agility and foresight.

Digital Transformation and Innovation

Georgieva advocated for responsible digital finance, emphasizing:

  • The adoption of fintech with stringent regulations
  • The use of digital tools to promote financial inclusion
  • The need for vigilance against digital divides and cyber risks

Her message is that innovation must be inclusive and secure.

A bar graph illustrating US private sector investment in AI compared to other countries, showing the US as the highest investor, with China and the UK following. The graph includes visual indicators for each country.

Climate Action and Sustainability

Climate resilience became a central focus. Georgieva emphasized the need for:

  • Investment in green infrastructure
  • Expansion of climate financing
  • Integration of climate risk into macroeconomic analysis

She positioned the IMF as a crucial player in global climate response.

Multilateralism and Global Cooperation

Georgieva’s speech reaffirmed the IMF’s commitment to multilateralism. She urged the following:

  • Coordinated action among governments and central banks
  • Strengthening of international institutions
  • Solidarity in addressing global challenges

Her vision is for a world united by shared responsibility and mutual support.

Closing Vision

In her concluding remarks, Georgieva conveyed a message of hope:

“Resilience is not merely survival—it is transformation.”

She envisioned a future founded on principles of solidarity, innovation, and sustainable growth. Her address functioned as a clarion call for courageous, collective action in the face of uncertainty.

Source: IMF

RBI Governor Highlights India’s Stability Amid Global Uncertainty

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra at the IMF Annual Meetings: India’s Resilient Position in an Uncertain World

When central bankers and finance ministers gather in Washington, D.C., each October for the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, the world pays close attention. These meetings involve more than just charts, forecasts, and press releases; they focus on how leaders communicate their nations’ positions within a changing global landscape.

On October 15, 2025, India’s Reserve Bank Governor, Sanjay Malhotra, took the stage at the IMF’s flagship “Governor Talks” session. This format is designed to spotlight global policymakers, encouraging open exchanges with IMF economists, investors, and the media. Malhotra’s discussion, moderated by Krishna Srinivasan, the Director of the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, was both a show of confidence and a candid assessment of the risks facing emerging markets.

An audience at the IMF's 'Governor Talks' session, featuring two speakers discussing monetary and financial policies for emerging markets on stage, with a backdrop displaying the session title and an image of an Indian government building.
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra speaking at the IMF Annual Meetings, emphasizing India's resilient economy amidst global uncertainties.

Framing India’s Story

Governor Malhotra began by placing India within the current macroeconomic climate. His central message was clear: while global uncertainties are increasing, India remains resilient due to its strong domestic fundamentals.

“India is primarily a domestically driven economy,” he stated in response to inquiries about trade tensions and the new wave of U.S. tariffs on imports. “We are affected, but it’s not a major concern.”

It was not mere bravado but a strategic approach. By highlighting the strength of internal demand, Malhotra aimed to reassure both foreign investors and domestic stakeholders that India’s growth story remains robust, even in the face of intensifying global challenges.

Trade Tensions and Global Risks

This year’s IMF meetings have been overshadowed by significant policy changes, including tariffs in advanced economies, increasing debt risks, and a persistent fragility in financial markets. Malhotra acknowledged these challenges, noting that emerging economies like India must continuously “factor in unprecedented uncertainties.”

However, he emphasized stability rather than vulnerability. India, he argued, is in a stronger position than many other countries due to strong growth fundamentals and diversified reserves.

This calm and measured perspective stood out in contrast to the concerns raised by several other governors, particularly those from nations experiencing currency instability or debt distress.

The Rupee Question

The topic of the Indian rupee inevitably arose. With exchange rates being closely monitored worldwide, Governor Malhotra made it clear:

“The Reserve Bank of India does not target a specific level for the rupee. Our goal is to reduce excessive volatility and ensure an orderly movement of the currency.”

This statement will be carefully analyzed in global markets. It reinforces the RBI’s long-standing principle of “managed flexibility”—intervening when there are disruptive fluctuations, but avoiding a strict defense of any particular rate. For international investors, this signals policy pragmatism rather than dogmatism.

Gold, Reserves, and Financial Stability

A key point of discussion was the role of gold in central bank reserves, particularly in light of the recent increase in gold accumulation by various economies. Malhotra mentioned that India’s reserves remain well-diversified. While the rise in gold prices has contributed to the reserves, it is not considered a systemic concern.

This response highlights the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) cautious yet steady approach to reserve management. By avoiding overreliance on any single asset, India aims to project stability and resilience in a world where financial markets are becoming increasingly volatile.

Why This Matters

Governor Malhotra’s remarks may not grab headlines due to dramatic revelations, but that is precisely the point. For a central banker, reassurance is often the most potent message. At a time when many emerging markets are vulnerable to global shocks, India’s representative chose to emphasize continuity, resilience, and moderation.

This has three key implications:

  1. For global investors, India remains a relatively safe emerging market option, characterized by predictable policies and strong domestic demand.
  2. For policymakers, Malhotra’s comments strengthen India’s reputation as a country willing to manage risks without panicking over short-term shocks.
  3. For Indian citizens, the message is one of stability: even in a turbulent global economy, the Reserve Bank is committed to safeguarding growth and minimizing volatility.

India on the Global Stage

The significance of the “Governor Talks” platform should not be underestimated. This is where the world’s most influential policymakers explain their choices, defend their positions, and highlight their priorities. By presenting India’s narrative with calm confidence, Malhotra ensured that India’s voice was recognized as a force for stability in a time of global uncertainty.

This also reinforced India’s growing prominence in the international economic landscape. Over the past decade, India has transformed from being viewed as a fragile emerging economy to being recognized as one of the anchors of global growth. Malhotra’s performance in Washington continued this positive narrative.

Looking Ahead

Concrete actions at home must match the commitments made at global meetings. In the coming months, markets will closely monitor:

  • The Reserve Bank’s upcoming decisions from the Monetary Policy Committee will be particularly important in response to inflationary pressures and global interest rate trends.
  • India’s capability to maintain its growth momentum amidst ongoing global trade tensions.
  • The Reserve Bank of India’s management of the rupee is crucial, especially if global capital flows continue to be unstable.

As global financial conditions tighten and geopolitical risks remain elevated, India’s policymakers will need to balance international pressures with domestic priorities carefully.

Conclusion

Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s appearance at the IMF’s “Governor Talks” was not marked by dramatic announcements or significant changes. Instead, it was a carefully crafted display of stability, prudence, and quiet confidence.

In Washington, he portrayed India not as a victim of global volatility, but as a nation charting its own course, grounded in domestic strength and consistent policy management.

At a time when global uncertainties dominate the headlines, this may be the most reassuring message India can convey.

Bank of France Governor François Villeroy de Galhau speaks with Danish Economic Affairs Minister Stephanie Lose and Reserve Bank of India Governor Sanjay Malhotra at the Plenary Session of the 52nd Meeting of the IMFC during the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund in Washington, DC, on October 17, 2025. IMF Photo/Tangyu Zhang.
Danish Economic Affairs Minister Stephanie Lose speaks with Reserve Bank of India Governor Sanjay Malhotra at the Plenary Session of the 52nd Meeting of the IMFC during the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund in Washington, DC, on October 17, 2025. IMF Photo/Tangyu Zhang
Reserve Bank of India Governor Sanjay Malhotra welcomes Saudi Central Bank International Affairs Director Norah Alyahya and Saudi Central Bank Governor Ayman Mohammed Alsayari to the IMFC Plenary Session during the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund in Washington, DC, on October 17, 2025. IMF Photo/Nicholas Karlin
Reserve Bank of India Governor Sanjay Malhotra and Deutsche Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel attend the IMFC Plenary Session during the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund in Washington, DC, on October 17, 2025. IMF Photo/Nicholas Karlin,

Oxford: Top University for 10 Consecutive Years

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026: Oxford has been named the best university in the world for an unprecedented tenth consecutive year.

London, October 9, 2025 — Oxford University has maintained its position as the world’s top university in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings since 2017. It marks the most extended period any university has held the number one spot in the rankings, which have been published annually for 21 years.

In this year’s edition, a record 2,191 universities from 115 countries were ranked. Alongside Oxford, only Harvard University and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have ever achieved the top ranking in the history of these rankings.

“We are honoured that Oxford has been ranked number one globally by Times Higher Education for the tenth year in a row. The THE rankings, rooted in internationally competitive research and teaching excellence, are recognised worldwide as a vigorous and demanding benchmark of university performance. This achievement reflects the dedication of our academics, professional services staff, and students, but it comes at a time of real strain for UK higher education. Sustaining a dynamic and globally competitive sector requires renewed investment and support, so that universities can continue to drive discovery, opportunity, and economic growth for future generations.”


— Professor Irene Tracey, CBE, FRS, FMedSci, Vice-Chancellor, University of Oxford

Phil Baty, THE’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, said: 

“At a time of extraordinarily intense competition in global higher education, research and innovation, it is truly remarkable for the University of Oxford to have maintained its place as the world’s number one university in the rigorous Times Higher Education World University Rankings for ten years in a row. Oxford holds its position at the top of the world against better-funded US institutions and rapidly rising research powerhouses in East Asia, led by China.

“The key to success, is of course strength across the full range of 18 performance metrics deployed by the THE world rankings – which range across the teaching and research environments, research excellence, industry outreach and international outlook – but I think it is Oxford’s resolute international focus and commitment to international talent attraction and cross-boarder knowledge sharing, that really helps it hold on to the top position.”

International Outlook

The process for the Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings involves extensive research, analyzing nearly 19 million research papers, 1.5 million responses from an Academic Reputation Survey, and comprehensive institutional data from over 3,000 universities around the globe.

These rankings are based on 18 specific metrics that encompass the core missions of global, research-driven universities. These metrics are grouped into five key areas:

  1. Teaching: This includes the learning environment, with teaching reputation being the most heavily weighted factor.
  2. Research Environment: This considers the volume, income, and overall reputation of research.
  3. Research Quality: This metric focuses on citation impact, research strength, research excellence, and research influence.
  4. International Outlook: This area evaluates the diversity of staff, students, and research contributions.
  5. Industry: This includes income generated from industrial engagements and patents obtained.

Oxford performed exceptionally well across all metrics in the ranking, showing a notable strength in its research environment. It includes factors such as academic reputation for research, success in obtaining funding, and overall research productivity. Additionally, Oxford excels in its international outlook, which encompasses international research collaboration and the ability to attract global talent, including both staff and students.

Sources: Times Higher Education; Oxford University

U.S. News Releases Best Colleges Rankings 2026

U.S. News Announces 2026 Best U.S. Colleges Rankings.

Logo of U.S. News & World Report featuring bold text in blue and white with a red underline.

WASHINGTON, September 24, 2025 — U.S. News & World Report, a global authority on education rankings, announced the 2026 Best Colleges rankings today.

The national and regional rankings serve as a guide for prospective students and their families by evaluating nearly 1,700 colleges and universities based on up to 17 measures of academic quality. In a demonstration of ongoing excellence, eight of the top-ranked schools in the ten ranking categories maintained their No. 1 position, while the other two achieved a strong second place.

“For more than four decades, Best Colleges has been a reliable and data-driven resource for students and families navigating the complicated college search process,” says LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. “Over the years, Best Colleges has evolved into a comprehensive tool that reflects the changing landscape of higher education, offering prospective students a vital starting point to identify schools that align with their academic and personal goals.”

The core methodology and weighting factors remain unchanged this year; however, some underlying data have been adjusted to reflect better evolving admissions considerations, cohort representation, and student involvement.

“While the general scoring weights and factors remained consistent, the 2026 rankings have made a few small adjustments to ensure that the results accurately represent the changing landscape of higher education,” says Jones. “By taking into account students’ credit hours and increasing the minimum number of students required for a cohort, the rankings provide a clearer view of institutional investment in students, as well as graduation and retention rates.”

This edition of the rankings features specialized categories, including the best value schools, the most innovative colleges, the top performers in social mobility, historically Black colleges and universities, and institutions with a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching. Additionally, students can explore programs that enhance the student experience, such as first-year experiences, co-op and internship opportunities, service learning, study abroad programs, and undergraduate research or creative projects.

The methodology for the 2026 Best Colleges rankings is based on up to 17 key measures of academic quality for National Universities and 13 indicators for National Liberal Arts Colleges, Regional Universities, and Regional Colleges. The rankings are calculated using data that is either universally reported by schools or can be obtained from third-party sources. It’s essential to note that a school’s eligibility for ranking does not depend on its participation in U.S. News’ surveys.

2026 Best National Universities – Top 3

Princeton University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Harvard University

2026 Best National Liberal Arts Colleges – Top 3

Williams College
Amherst College
United States Naval Academy

2026 Top Public Schools: National Universities – Top 3

University of California, Berkeley
University of California – Los Angeles
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

2026 Top Historically Black Colleges and Universities – Top 3

Spelman College
Howard University
Morehouse College

2026 Top Performers on Social Mobility: National Universities – Top 3

Florida International University
University of California, Riverside
California State University, Long Beach

2026 Top Schools for Veterans: National Universities – Top 3

University of Chicago
Cornell University
Brown University

2026 Best Regional Universities: North – Top 3

Bentley University
Providence College
Rhode Island School of Design

2026 Best Regional Universities: South – Top 3

Citadel Military College of South Carolina
Rollins College
Appalachian State University

2026 Best Regional Universities: Midwest – Top 3

Butler University
John Carroll University
Milwaukee School of Engineering

2026 Best Regional Universities: West – Top 3

California Polytechnic State University – San Luis Obispo
University of Portland
California State Polytechnic University – Pomona

U.S. News offers a range of educational resources, including the Scholarship Finder tool, which helps potential and current undergraduate students explore financial aid options and access information about over 18,000 scholarships. Additionally, U.S. News has recently launched “Getting In,” a new newsletter aimed at parents that covers the college admissions process. This newsletter provides valuable strategies, insider information, and guidance to help reduce stress.

U.S. News & World Report is the leading source of journalism that helps consumers, citizens, business leaders, and policy officials make informed decisions in all areas of their lives and communities.

Source: U.S. News & World Report, L.P.