Bernard Dowiyogo vs Luis Arce

Bernard Dowiyogo was first elected President of Nauru, beginning a political career that would see him serve seven non-consecutive terms. He succeeded Hammer DeRoburt.

Dowiyogo's government filed a case against Australia in the International Court of Justice regarding the rehabilitation of phosphate-mined lands. The case was settled out of court in 1993 with Australia agreeing to pay compensation.

Dowiyogo delivered a speech at the United Nations General Assembly highlighting the existential threat of climate change and sea-level rise to Nauru and other small island states. He called for international action.

Dowiyogo died of complications from diabetes while undergoing medical treatment in Washington, D.C. He was the first Nauruan president to die in office.

Luis Arce won the Bolivian general election with 55.1% of the vote, succeeding Evo Morales. The election followed a period of political crisis after Morales' resignation in 2019. Arce's victory restored the MAS party to power.

Arce implemented lockdowns and economic measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bolivia faced high infection rates and a strained healthcare system. The government secured vaccines through multilateral agreements.

Arce's government dealt with fuel shortages, inflation, and protests over economic policies. The government subsidized fuel and food prices to maintain stability. Critics argued the measures were insufficient.