In The News

How the Georgia Conflict Impacts US-Russian Relations

Thomas R. Pickering September 2, 2008
Two provinces hoping to break away from Georgia and Russia’s subsequent attack and occupation has raised concerns in the US about Russian motivations for expansion. For US-Russian relations, the conflict will distract from all other issues, including joint efforts to stem nuclear proliferation, cooperation on Iran and trade. As with most other issues, the US is divided on how to best handle the...

America and the World Into a New Era – Part I

Bruce Stokes September 2, 2008
The US and Europe – firm allies throughout the 20th century – now differ on many issues, global security in particular. This YaleGlobal series analyzes the European-American relationship and points to areas of fracture. In the first article, journalist and author Bruce Stokes describes the world’s expectations for the next US president and cautions that regardless of who wins the post-Bush...

The Hypocrisy Audit

Moisés Naím September 2, 2008
In a fast-changing and complicated world with countless connections, double standards are inevitable. But the countries on the losing side of such standards take quick note and protest loudly. The excuse that the world is messy and different situations call for different reactions is quickly adopted by other nations, while orderly international standards fall by the wayside. “Not all double...

China’s Olympic Run – Part II

Pallavi Aiyar August 29, 2008
For seven years, the Olympics have guided political, economic and cultural goals in China, and this two-part YaleGlobal series suggests that the country will struggle to manage a huge void left with the Games’ conclusion. Communist Party leaders used the Olympics to rally citizens and portray a confident, new image to the world. In the second article of the series, journalist and author Pallavi...

China’s Olympic Run – Part I

Mary Kay Magistad August 27, 2008
China hosted memorable Olympics Games, ignoring criticism about pollution, relocation of poor Chinese and repression of protesters. For the past seven years, the Olympics became symbol and reason for the Chinese people to endure sacrifice. This two-part series examines the implications of Chinese policy for the country and the world. In the first article of the series, veteran correspondent Mary...

Unpopular President

August 26, 2008
Indonesia’s president reduced government subsidies for fuel in May, causing fuel prices to jump and his popularity among voters sank. But the coalition government continues an anti-poverty platform, including subsidized rice for the poor – and that combined with an ample supply could mitigate some economic complaints. Polls suggest that voters favor secular parties over those with Islamic roots...

A Door Opens for Reform in Pakistan – Part II

Ziad Haider August 25, 2008
Pakistan has long failed to meet the needs of its own citizens, and this two-part YaleGlobal series explores how weak governance and over-reliance on military solutions have contributed to political turmoil and a build-up of extremism. In the rugged federally administered tribal areas, the 1901 Frontier Crimes Regulations, an outmoded legal system inherited from British colonial administration,...