European security
The collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War left the North Atlantic Alliance without a clear mission. Funded mostly by the United States, it remains the chief guarantor of Europe’s security. Now, Washington is pushing for European members to foot more the cost of defence. New challenges, including migration, Russian assertiveness and the conflict in Ukraine, have all produced tensions within the EU and the NATO alliance.
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The crisis in Chad deepens instability in sub-Saharan Africa
The death of Chadian President Idriss Deby will have a regional impact. France and the U.S. considered the ironfisted Deby regime a linchpin in the fight against Islamist extremism in West and Central Africa.
Europe needs more realpolitik, experience and skill in foreign and security policy
Europe cannot afford a foreign policy that is poorly conceived, ill-targeted and amateurish in execution. There is a pressing need to add a pragmatic institution, probably outside the EU governance architecture, to improve Europe’s international standing, room for maneuver and security prospects
Vaccine diplomacy: Soft power lessons from China and Russia
Russia’s and China’s vaccine deliveries come with soft power messages. The EU extends significant pandemic-related aid to its neighbors and the international community but its “political signaling” has been weak.
Critical raw materials: Assessing EU vulnerabilities
Securing the supply of materials that go into advanced technologies has become a political imperative around the world. Rare earth elements present the greatest risk, as China dominates their production. Europe is moving forward with plans for mining, partnerships and recycling, but is that enough to eliminate its geopolitical vulnerabilities?
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More Disruptions
Expanding state
A trend toward increased government influence in economies and personal life is curbing growth, and freedom, in many Western countries. The outsized role of government results in misplaced incentives, overregulation – which restrains markets and competition – and irresponsible budgetary ...
Middle East politics
The region, one of the cradles of civilization, is going through a turbulent period of historic realignment. Its powers are vying for political, military, economic and religious dominance with local players and outside actors. Armed conflicts, mainly civil wars, are ...
