As governments confront many challenges that are global in scale, leaders find they must cooperate in responding to financial, climate, terrorism and other crises. As a result, a global audience has developed keen interest in how and why nations select their leaders. On one hand, citizens expect sensible and collective action, transparency and fair representation; on the other hand, citizens and leaders fret about compromising security, sovereignty or loss of control. Diplomats and global organizations like the United Nations aim to achieve a balance, even as global communications allow citizens in democracies or authoritarian states to steer attention to issues. Attention to citizen demands and multilateral cooperation contribute to stability.

Yahoo’s Mess of Pottage

In betraying a reporter to the Chinese government, Yahoo may have compromised fundamental journalistic values
Philip Bowring
September 21, 2005

Africa's Time Has Come…

Looking back on the "Year for Africa," is there still hope for the G-8 development goals?
Larry Elliot
September 28, 2005

You Are Judged by the Company You Keep

Beijing's support for oppressive regimes may further dampen relations with the United States
Ralph A. Cossa
September 6, 2005

Indo-US nuclear Deal Is a Bold Step Forward

Indian critics misjudge the demands of recent Indo-US nuclear pact
Ashley J. Tellis
September 12, 2005

Hail to the Chief

China holds the levers of the world economy – and Washington is worried
Hamish McDonald
September 13, 2005