February 2026 was marked by major political developments across Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and Latin America, as voters elected new leaders, governments underwent leadership changes, and international agreements reached significant milestones. From the expiration of a major U.S.-Russia arms control treaty to landmark election results in several countries, the month reflected shifting political dynamics with global implications.
New START Treaty Expires
One of the month’s most significant international developments occurred on February 5, when the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) between the United States and Russia expired.
The treaty, which had placed limits on the deployment of strategic nuclear weapons, had long been considered a cornerstone of global arms control efforts. Its expiration raised concerns among security analysts about the future of nuclear arms negotiations between the world’s two largest nuclear powers.
Meanwhile, government officials from both countries indicated that discussions on future strategic stability could continue through diplomatic channels.
Japan’s Governing Party Secures Strong Mandate
Japanese voters headed to the polls on February 8, where the governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) won a supermajority in the national general election.
The result strengthened the ruling party’s position in parliament and provided the government with greater legislative authority to advance its domestic and foreign policy agenda.
Election officials reported a peaceful voting process, while political analysts said the outcome reflected continued public support for policy stability.
Thailand Approves Constitutional Reform
Thailand also held a general election and constitutional referendum on February 8.
The conservative populist Bhumjaithai Party emerged with the largest share of parliamentary seats. In addition, voters approved a new constitution, marking a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing political reform process.
Government leaders described the vote as an opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions, while opposition groups pledged to closely monitor implementation of the constitutional changes.
Portugal Elects New President
Portugal concluded its presidential election on February 8, with António José Seguro winning the second-round vote.
Following his victory, Seguro pledged to serve all Portuguese citizens and emphasized national unity.
“The responsibility now is to work for every citizen and strengthen our democratic institutions,” Seguro said after the election.
Costa Rica Elects New President
Costa Rican voters elected Laura Fernández Delgado as president in the first round of the country’s general election on February 1.
Her victory avoided a runoff and signaled broad voter support for her campaign platform.
Election authorities praised the orderly voting process, reinforcing Costa Rica’s reputation for stable democratic elections.
Barbados Governing Party Sweeps Election
On February 11, the Barbados Labour Party won every seat in the country’s general election, delivering one of the most decisive electoral victories in the nation’s history.
The outcome gives the governing party complete control of Parliament as it prepares to advance its legislative agenda.
Bangladesh Opposition Wins Landslide
Bangladesh held its general election on February 12, with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) securing a landslide victory.
The election marked a significant political shift and positioned the party to form the country’s next government.
Meanwhile, election observers continued evaluating the conduct of the vote and the transition process.
Australia Liberal Party Changes Leadership
Australia’s Liberal Party elected Angus Taylor as its new leader on February 13, replacing Sussan Ley, who had become the party’s first female leader.
Party officials described the leadership change as part of an effort to strengthen the opposition ahead of future elections.
Peru Swears in New President
Political leadership also changed in Peru on February 17, when Congress censured President José Jerí.
Following the vote, José María Balcázar assumed the presidency in accordance with the country’s constitutional process.
The leadership transition came amid continued political uncertainty that has characterized Peruvian politics in recent years.
North Korea Retains Existing Leadership
On February 22, Kim Jong Un was re-elected as General Secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, maintaining his position as the country’s highest political leader.
The same day, Laos conducted its parliamentary elections as part of its regular electoral schedule.
Netherlands Makes History
A historic political milestone occurred on February 23, when Rob Jetten was sworn in as Prime Minister of the Netherlands.
Jetten became both the youngest and the first openly gay prime minister in Dutch history.
In his inaugural remarks, Jetten emphasized cooperation and inclusive leadership as priorities for his new government.
Jersey Approves Assisted Dying Legislation
On February 26, lawmakers in Jersey voted overwhelmingly to legalize assisted dying.
Supporters described the legislation as an expansion of personal choice at the end of life, while opponents expressed ethical concerns. The government is expected to develop detailed regulations before the law takes effect.
Green Party Wins U.K. By-Election
Also on February 26, voters in the Gorton and Denton parliamentary by-election elected Green Party candidate Hannah Spencer.
The victory was viewed by political observers as another sign of growing support for smaller parties in certain parts of the United Kingdom.
Israeli President Visits Australia
Israeli President Isaac Herzog began an official visit to Australia on February 9, where he met with Australian leaders to discuss bilateral relations, regional security, and economic cooperation.
Officials from both countries described the meetings as an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties and expand collaboration across several sectors.
Peter Mandelson Resigns from Labour Party
Former British cabinet minister and former ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party on February 1 following controversy surrounding allegations related to his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Subsequently, Mandelson also resigned from the House of Lords after additional allegations emerged. The matter remains part of ongoing public and legal scrutiny.
A Month of Political Transition
February 2026 demonstrated how elections, leadership transitions, and international policy developments continue to reshape the global political landscape. Across multiple continents, voters selected new governments, political parties adjusted their leadership, and major diplomatic events underscored the importance of international cooperation.
Meanwhile, analysts expect many of these developments—including leadership changes, constitutional reforms, and evolving security issues—to influence regional and global politics throughout the remainder of 2026.
