In The News

China's Brutal Crackdown on Dissidents

Andreas Lorenz July 5, 2006
In the name of economic development, many Chinese citizens find themselves forced from their land and homes for construction of dams, roads or other projects. Added to the displacement are paltry offers of compensation and corruption, funneling the gains of China’s “economic miracle” away from its poorest people. The conflicts invite protest, but, as many of the country’s “difficult citizens”...

Controlling Carrots and Sticks

Michael M. Phillips July 5, 2006
By creating the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in 2002, the Bush administration attempted to reshape how the US distributes foreign aid. The MCC allocates aid based on more than a dozen criteria, such as control of corruption and civil liberties. Thus far, the MCC has not had any qualms about denying or suspending aid to countries that do not meet its guidelines. This strict adherence...

Globalization’s Hidden Benefits

Richard W. Fisher July 4, 2006
Globalization has its roots in the logic of capitalism and will continue to advance, unless authorities make a concerted effort to reverse or halt it. While some critics malign globalization, increasing evidence suggests that its benefits go hand in hand with fair, conscientious policies. Globalization rewards decision-making that serves the interests of many types of people living in diverse...

As China Ages, a Shortage of Cheap Labor Looms

Howard W. French June 30, 2006
The world’s most populous nation may soon face a labor shortage. Chinese traditionally retire at age 60. But expansion of nursing homes and home care provide evidence of a demographic shift and aging population, which could pressure China’s already stretched pension program. Analysts debate the wisdom of relaxing laws such as the one-child policy and restrictions on internal migration to ease...

A Promise Not Kept

Paul Blustein June 30, 2006
Few can deny that the wealthiest nations have an edge over poor countries when it comes to trade – and many economists argue that opening US and European markets to agricultural goods from small nations could substantially reduce poverty. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has repeatedly tried to address the inequities since 2001, with its Doha round of talks. Reducing farm tariffs and subsidies...

Chinese Premier Boosts Trade with Seven-Nation Africa Tour

Rory Carroll June 29, 2006
Chinese foreign policy officials have dubbed 2006 “the Year of Africa,” a policy in action as Wen Jiabao, China’s premier, visits with leaders of seven countries on the continent. While Africa’s natural resources pose the most obvious interest for the Chinese, Wen will also conduct talks on issues as varied as nuclear power, textile imports, regional alliances, and investment and trade. African...

North Korean Nuclear Conundrum

Chung Min Lee June 29, 2006
As North Korea plans to launch a long-range missile, the US threatens sanctions and military intervention. But public policy Professor Chung Min Lee asserts that it may be too late to dismantle North Korea’s nuclear arsenal. Analysts suggest that the country has enough weapons-grade plutonium for a dozen nuclear weapons. Since the early 1990s, North Korea has worked with highly enriched uranium...