Content

Event Recap

Jul 15, 2020

Event recap | The future of trust and sensemaking online and in digital transactions

By Hannah Biggs

On July 15, 2020, the GeoTech Center hosted a discussion on ways to best increase trust and sensemaking online and in digital transactions.

Cybersecurity Digital Policy
Illicit Networks-Zaranj

In-Depth Research & Reports

Jul 15, 2020

Strategies for reforming Afghanistan’s illicit networks

By Harris Samad and Fatima Salman

Authored in-house and advised upon by senior fellows Ambassador James B. Cunningham, Ambassador Omar Samad, Marika Theros, Javid Ahmad, and Fatemeh Aman, this report explores illicit networks in Afghanistan in the context of peacebuilding, democratic consolidation, and enhancing state capacity. It concludes by outlining several specific policy recommendations that will be necessary to combat the illicit networks in a manner that supports the durability of the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan and the continued consolidation of its fragile democratic institutions.

Afghanistan Arms Control

IranSource

Jul 15, 2020

No, Iran isn’t going to be a Chinese client state

By Brendon Hong

The characterization is not unique to Iran’s case.

China Iran

MENASource

Jul 15, 2020

Iran isn’t the only Middle Eastern country in a unique partnership with China

By Jonathan Fulton

China has deeply entrenched interests across the region and mature relationships with many relevant Arab countries, most of which do not look favorably upon Iran.

China Middle East

New Atlanticist

Jul 15, 2020

Made in China: A problem for Europe

By Elmar Hellendoorn

The story of Italy’s economic decline may also foretell the story of Europe’s decline. As China increasingly exports high value goods, Northern Europe’s industries are starting to feel the heat. It seems time for the EU to weigh its trade relationship with China against its impact on Europe’s economy, social cohesion, political unity, and strategic autonomy.

China European Union

UkraineAlert

Jul 14, 2020

Russo-Ukrainian War: Kremlin denials prevent progress towards peace

By Oleksandr Merezhko

Almost six years have passed since the Minsk Agreements were first signed. However, there is still fundamental disagreement over the parties to these agreements and the obligations they are under.

Conflict Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding

The future is here

Jul 14, 2020

Hong Kong warns of a third wave of infections, Australian state uses jail as a deterrent

By Atlantic Council

Officials in Hong Kong warned of a high risk of a third wave of infections, while in Tokyo a theater in a night-life spot was the focus of an outbreak. An Australian state threatened quarantine breakers with six months in jail. Meanwhile, mainland China and Belgium saw either fewer or zero new cases emerge.

Coronavirus

New Atlanticist

Jul 14, 2020

COVID-19 could set back Mideast economies for years

By Larry Luxner

The coronavirus pandemic is causing widespread suffering throughout the Middle East, but its long-term impact on the region’s economy and its vulnerable populations will be felt for years to come.

Coronavirus Middle East

IranSource

Jul 14, 2020

US and Israel shift from sanctions to alleged sabotage against Iran

By Sina Azodi and Mohsen Solhdoost

While the attacks have been embarrassing to Iran and exposed the shortcomings of its intelligence and security apparatuses, they could also backfire, adding support to those who argue that Iran should withdraw completely from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or even the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Jul 14, 2020

After the coronavirus and low oil prices, Oman’s future is more global

By Phillip Cornell

With the onset of COVID-19 and an economic crisis that is bound to accelerate history, Oman’s commitment to steady progress and political neutrality will face new tests and leverage the country’s wider global relationships.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy