A Trio of Challenges for the Prime Minister
Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a complex set of domestic and international challenges as he travels to the G20 summit in South Africa on Thursday, 20 November 2025. His diplomatic mission coincides with significant political turbulence at home, creating a precarious balancing act for the new government.
International Pressure at the G20
The primary focus of the international gathering is the ongoing war in Ukraine, but a new development threatens to undermine global solidarity. An alleged corruption case rocking President Zelenskyy's government has cast a shadow over the proceedings, potentially jeopardising the unified international support for Ukraine's war effort. This places Prime Minister Starmer in a delicate position as he engages with other world leaders to navigate this diplomatic tightrope.
Domestic Tensions Escalate
While the Prime Minister is abroad, a fierce political debate is intensifying back in the UK. A massive political row is poised to erupt over the contentious issue of single-sex spaces. The debate, often referred to as the 'gender wars', is set to dominate Westminster discourse, testing the unity and policy direction of the governing party.
Furthermore, Westminster braces for uncomfortable revelations as Baroness Hallett presents her long-awaited report into the UK's decision-making and governance during the Covid-19 pandemic. The findings are expected to provide a critical examination of the actions taken by the previous government, creating potential political fallout for established figures.
This confluence of events—from a fragile international alliance in South Africa to heated domestic policy debates and a historic public inquiry—defines a critical week for the Starmer administration, testing its leadership on both the global and home fronts.
