In 2025, the resurgence of tariff wars among major global economies—particularly between the US, China, the EU and India—has led to significant disruptions in international trade and economic cooperation. These conflicts have been ignited by disputes over digital trade policies, green technology subsidies, and supply chain sovereignty. While much attention has been paid to trade deficits and economic power balances, the broader societal impacts remain critically under-discussed. The 2025 tariff wars are exacerbating global challenges such as educational equity, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability, with consequences that may outlast the trade disputes themselves. U.S. President Donald Trump (REUTERS) As nations like the US and China increase tariffs on key imports and retaliate against each other’s goods, public revenues are being squeezed by slowed economic activity. In 2025, the International Monetary Fund reported a global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contraction of 1.2% directly linked to tariff escalations, with emerging economies bearing the brunt. This economic stagnation is straining education budgets worldwide. Countries like Brazil and South Africa, reliant on trade with China and the EU, have …