In The News

Fears Intensify That Euro Crisis Could Snowball

Nelson D. Schwartz, Eric Dash May 17, 2010
As Europe strives to bail out Greece and other nations in serious debt, global investors ponder the long-term effects of huge imbalances. The worry is that countries with massive debt like Spain and Portugal can weaken strongholds like Germany and France, reports an article in the New York Times. Economically strong countries that hold problem debt may be forced into restructuring plans even as...

Greek Crisis and the Future of the European Union – Part II

Jean-Pierre Lehmann May 7, 2010
Internal divisions can endanger any union more than external threats. Mistrust – a lack of shared basic values or vision – can decimate cooperation, explains Jean-Pierre Lehmann, professor of political economy, in the second article of a two-part series analyzing the Greek debt crisis. Lehmann describes Greece’s immense debt load, the history of corruption, and their effect on the European Union...

How To Get Rid of Nuclear Weapons

May 5, 2010
As signatories of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty gather to review its forty years’ performance, the danger posed by nuclear weapons remains undiminished. Gareth Evans, Co-Chairman of an International Commission on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament, interviewed by Nayan Chanda, Editor of YaleGlobal Online, discusses the threat and urgent tasks ahead for the international community...

Globalization Helps Spread 'Exotic' Diseases

Muiris Houston May 5, 2010
Globalization means increased travel and tourism for many people in the developed world. But when travelers return home, they can bring more than photographs and memories. Often unbeknownst to them, pathogens travel on their bodies and with belongings. In recent years, Europe has seen the outbreak of a handful of diseases traditionally associated with the tropical world. Northern Italy saw...

'Imam for Peace' Sows Discontent

Ullrich Fichtner April 29, 2010
An immigrant imam in suburban France is drawing notice for his teachings. Hassen Chalghoumi preaches against the wearing of the full-bodied veil by Islamic women and seeks to make Islam accommodating to European countries. While Chalghoumi enjoys support from many non-Muslim French, including President Nicolas Sarkozy, he has attracted increasing criticism from Muslims, who argue that France...

Moscow Bombing: The Black Widows’ Global Roots

Richard Weitz March 31, 2010
The recent Moscow Metro bombings are symptoms not only of radical Islam as a global force, but also a consequence of Russia’s long-standing policies toward Muslims within its sphere of control, according to security expert Richard Weitz. Chechen rebels faced with fighting an imposing and well-equipped Russian army turned to guerilla warfare and then terror tactics to carry on their fight for...

Germany: Responsible for Europe’s crisis?

Cameron Abadi March 22, 2010
Germany’s economic policies have strengthened its domestic economy but weakened Europe’s less developed economies. Low prices, resulting from low wage increases, have made German products more competitive in the European market. Meanwhile, domestic consumption has shown muted growth, allowing imports to remain low. The result is a high trade surplus and one of the largest GDPs in Europe. But...