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  2. The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF
The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF · Jul 2, 2026

Cyprus's President, a historian, discusses reforming outdated post-WWII global institutions and champions India's leading role in a new world order.

A Historian's Mindset Gives Political Leaders a Predictive Advantage

Understanding historical patterns is not just academic; it provides a crucial framework for predicting future geopolitical shifts and making informed decisions, especially in complex regions that bridge continents.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago

Post-WWII Institutions Like The UN Lack Credibility Without Major Reform

Global bodies created in 1945, such as the UN Security Council, reflect an outdated world order. To regain relevance, they must be updated to include modern powers like India, otherwise they fail to address today's realities.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago

Build New Alliances on a 'Positive Agenda,' Not Against a Common Enemy

The most effective way to create stable regional security and trade architectures is to focus on mutual benefits for members. This 'positive agenda' approach is more inclusive and attractive than forming alliances against a third country.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago

To Avoid War, Nations Must Increase Their Defense Budgets for Deterrence

In a world where nations can no longer rely on external protectors, peace is maintained through deterrence. Increasing defense spending and achieving strategic autonomy is a paradoxical but necessary step to make the cost of war prohibitively high for aggressors.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago

Effective Leaders Focus on the Next Generation, Not the Next Election

True leadership requires making decisions for the long-term benefit of a nation, even if they are unpopular today. The goal should be a positive legacy in history books, not favorable newspaper articles tomorrow.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago

Mass Job Displacement by AI Could Lead to an Anarchic Social Collapse

The prospect of AI replacing a vast portion of the workforce (e.g., 80%) poses an existential threat to governance. Such widespread unemployment could dismantle social structures, undermine democracy, and push society towards an anarchic system.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago

Small Nations Gain Influence by First Aligning with a Larger Nation's Interests

A small country's diplomat cannot simply ask for support. To be effective, they must first understand the challenges of the larger power, find areas of alignment, and only then raise their own national issue. This builds rapport and demonstrates value.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago

The Presidency Is a Lonely Position Requiring Difficult, Forward-Looking Decisions

Holding the highest office is an isolating experience defined by daily, difficult decisions. A leader must prioritize the country's long-term future and historical legacy over immediate public approval or favorable press coverage.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago

Europe Now Sees the Greater Middle East as a Strategic Partner, Not a Colony

Europe's approach to the Middle East and India has shifted from a neo-colonial one (criticizing human rights while selling arms) to one of strategic partnership. This change is driven by the interconnected nature of modern global crises and interests.

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF thumbnail

The President of Cyprus on Whether Democracy Still Works | Nikhil Kamath | People by WTF

People by WTF·12 hours ago