CURRENT-AFFAIRS

Context

When global leaders gathered in the snowy atmosphere of Davos, the biggest concern was the growing "Greenland War" between America and Europe. In his address, US President Donald Trump gave the world a great sigh of relief by backing away from the possibility of using 'military force' to acquire Greenland. However, this 'retreat' appears to be a calculated strategic move rather than a spirit of peace.

Greenland and the Threat of Tariff War

• In recent weeks, tension reached its peak when the Trump administration announced that if Denmark and the European Union did not agree to hand over (or sell) Greenland to the US, punitive tariffs (import duties) of 10% from February 1 and up to 25% from June 1 would be imposed on European goods.
• Trump argues that in the name of 'security', full US control over this massive Arctic island is essential.

European Solidarity: An 'Anti-Coercion Instrument'

• For the first time in history, the European Union (EU) adopted a counter-attack strategy instead of bowing to America's economic pressure.
• Europe activated an "Anti-Coercion Instrument," under which a blueprint for 'retaliatory tariffs' targeting the European businesses of major US tech companies (Google, Apple, Meta) was prepared.
• Experts believe that it was this unprecedented solidarity of the European Union that forced Trump to change his military stance.

'Golden Dome' and the New Arctic Equation Trump has indicated that his sights are still set on Greenland, but now the medium will be a 'trade agreement'. He has linked this to his $175 billion "Golden Dome" missile defense plan.

• Strategic Objective: To make Greenland a base for the deployment of American weapons in space and the Arctic.
• Infinite Timeline: By talking about having "infinite" time for this agreement, Trump has signaled that he will maintain pressure on this issue for a long time.

The 'Weaponization' of Economic Integration Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed deep concern over this development, calling it an "institutional disease." He warned that superpowers are now:

• Using trade tariffs as 'tools of coercion'.
• Exploiting supply chains by turning them into the 'weakness' of other countries.
• Prioritizing 'brute force' over international rules.

Warning for Middle Powers (India, Canada)

• The "middle powers" of the world often resort to 'flattery' or 'adjustment' with superpowers to avoid crisis.
• But Mark Carney clearly states that "safety will not be achieved through compliance." If the rules-based order breaks today, every country, big or small, will have to bear the brunt tomorrow.

India's Position: Vigilance is Security Relations between India and the US have not been very stable for some time; Trump’s style of functioning proves that he can set aside the 'rule of law' at any time for his interests. India must consider:

• Will America's promises on the global stage prove true at home (domestic policies)?
• Could India also face similar 'economic weaponization'?

Conclusion

Trump's speech at Davos 2026 is tension-reducing, but it does not promise any long-term peace. Trump's ambitions regarding Greenland have now shifted from military force to the form of 'missile defense' and 'economic pressure'. Europe's counter-action has proved that superpowers can be stopped through solidarity, but the foundation of a rules-based world order is still shaking.

Introduction:

The World Economic Forum (WEF) summit held in Davos, Switzerland, in January 2026 has brought global politics to a new turning point. The "Board of Peace" (BoP) announced by US President Donald Trump has not only created diplomatic stir but has also raised a complex question of 'principles vs. pragmatism' for global powers like India. By distancing itself from the Board's charter declaration program for now, India has demonstrated its caution.

What is the Board of Peace?

It is an international body proposed by the Trump administration whose primary objective is the reconstruction of Gaza and the resolution of global conflicts.

• Chairmanship: Donald Trump himself is its founding chairman and holds 'veto' power.
• Executive Board: It includes names like Jared Kushner, Marco Rubio, and former British PM Tony Blair.
• Objective: To build 'New Gaza', where luxury hotels, skyscrapers, and trade corridors will be constructed on devastated land.

Why is it in the news?

• On January 22, 2026, Trump signed the charter of this board in Davos.
• The biggest reasons for the news are the $1 billion 'permanent membership fee' and the attempt to establish a new structure parallel to the United Nations (UN).

Acceptance and Rejection of the Proposal

• Major countries that accepted: Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belarus, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, Jordan, Morocco, Pakistan, Paraguay, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Canada (this country has agreed to join "in principle").
• Rejected/Neutral: Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Italy have refused to join; France, Britain, Canada, and China have currently distanced themselves or expressed strong objections.

Points of Attraction for India

Why might India consider joining this board? There are some solid reasons:

• Palestinian Interests: India has historically been a supporter of Palestine. This board could provide an opportunity for direct help to the affected population and reconstruction of infrastructure.
• Regional Power Balance: Regional giants like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have decided to join. It could be diplomatically important for India to keep pace with these powers.
• Bilateral Relations Pressure: India's trade relations with the US are currently going through a delicate phase. Directly rejecting Trump’s invitation could invite his 'aggressive diplomatic wrath'.

Board Structure: A Serious Warning

There are several 'red-flags' or signs of danger clear for India before joining this board:

• Unilateral Control: In the board's structure, Trump has appointed himself as chairman, and the executive board includes his family and friends. It appears less like an international body and more like a 'private club'.
• Attempt to Replace the UN: According to the charter, this board will be expanded to other global conflicts, which seems like an attempt to reduce the importance of the United Nations and make it irrelevant.
• Lack of Representation: Israeli leadership has been given a place in the board, but the Palestinian leadership has been completely ignored. This is insulting to countries that recognize Palestinian sovereignty.

Specific Risks for India

• From India's perspective, the biggest threat is Pakistan's active participation in this board.
• If Trump attempts to 'solve' bilateral issues like the Kashmir dispute through this board, it will become difficult for India to protect its 'strategic autonomy'.
• Additionally, the heavy fee of one billion dollars for 'permanent membership' sets an unethical example in international diplomacy.

Military and Diplomatic Compulsion

• If India becomes a member of this board, it could be compelled to send its soldiers to the 'International Stability Force' (ISF).
• This is a non-UN initiative, which goes against India’s tradition where Indian soldiers go abroad only under United Nations peacekeeping missions.
• In the absence of transparency, member countries will merely become 'rubber-stamps' to endorse Trump’s arbitrary decisions.

International Analysis

• Proponent of Peace or Obsession with Hegemony? Is this for peace or the pain of not getting the Nobel Peace Prize? Analysis suggests that the 'Board of Peace' charter is focused more on Trump’s personal power than on Gaza. It grants Trump the right to remain chairman indefinitely and overturn any decision, making it look like a 'royal court' rather than a democratic institution.
• Europe's Position: Europe currently appears surrounded by 'clouds of compulsion'. On one hand, it needs the US for its security; on the other hand, Trump’s 'America First' policy and his claims on Greenland have made European countries (especially Denmark and France) uncomfortable. Europe is trying to save its independent identity by not accepting this proposal.
• Questions on Relevance: Venezuela, Greenland, and Gaza After Trump's insistence on controlling Venezuela’s resources and buying or controlling Greenland, questions are being raised about the morality of the 'Board of Peace'. During the Gaza war, when thousands were being killed and the whole world (through the UN) was trying to make laws to stop the fighting immediately, the US used its special power (Veto) to prevent those laws from passing. In such a situation, talking about peace now seems like a diplomatic contradiction.

The Way Forward:

• New Delhi should avoid this temptation and continue its independent consultations.
• India should consult with the Palestinian leadership and its other international partners to choose a path that is just.
• Peace does not mean only the construction of skyscrapers; it must be rested on the foundation of self-respect and justice.
• Ultimately, instead of bowing to any trade agreement or US pressure, India should listen to its conscience and ensure that it does not become part of any structure that destroys the core principles of the international justice system.

Conclusion:

Trump’s 'Board of Peace' is a controversial confluence of 'peace' and 'business' in international politics. While it gives an opportunity for Gaza's economic rejuvenation, it marginalizes the dignity of the United Nations and the global justice system. India distancing itself from this board reflects its 'strategic autonomy' and commitment to principles. India believes that lasting peace is possible not just through investment or skyscrapers, but through inclusive justice and human sensitivities. New Delhi should maintain its independent identity on global platforms and support only those efforts based on the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', not on the hegemony of any specific nation.