Issue briefs and reports

Three worlds in 2035: Imagining scenarios for how the world could be transformed over the next decade

2024 was marked by increased climate shocks and collaboration of autocratic adversaries. What will the world look like in the next decade? The Atlantic Council’s top experts brought their globe-spanning expertise to the task of forecasting three different scenarios for the future.

Global Foresight 2025

In this year’s Global Foresight edition, our experts share findings from our survey of global strategists on how human affairs could unfold over the next decade. Our team of next-generation scholars spot “snow leopards” that could have major unexpected impacts in 2025 and beyond. And our foresight practitioners imagine three different scenarios for the next decade.

Monopolization is stifling Kuwait’s economy—it’s time to rethink top-down policies

By Rabah Arezki

Since Emir Mishal dissolved parliament in May 2024, Kuwait has faced a political crisis. Meanwhile, economic challenges loom as the oil era wanes. To remain competitive, Kuwait must break up monopolies, foster innovation, and transition from top-down planning to a market-driven approach. In doing so, following regional models while empowering entrepreneurs and diversifying its economy will be crucial.

More stable trade and investment policies can bolster the Nigerian economy

By Zainab Usman

Nigeria’s political and economic trajectory has been marked by democratic breakthroughs as well as electoral setbacks, insurgent conflicts, and volatile reforms. While the country has made notable strides in reducing poverty and lowering inequality, continued efforts to address insecurity, poor health standards, and pervasive corruption are needed to enhance national freedom and prosperity.

Cameroon’s future relies on empowering its women 

By Vera Songwe

To build a stronger, more prosperous Cameroon, the country must prioritize boosting economic and political freedoms and invest in managing its environmental resources. This strategy will not only benefit Cameroonian women but also prove most impactful in advancing the nation as a whole.

Toplines: The United States and its allies must be ready to deter a two-front war and nuclear attacks in East Asia

By Markus Garlauskas

The "toplines" from Markus Garlauskus' report on two emerging and interrelated deterrence challenges in East Asia with grave risks to US national security.

Central Asia needs regional and international cooperation to bolster water security

By Ariel Cohen, Wesley Alexander Hill, Wilder Alejandro Sánchez

A new Atlantic Council report, “Water insecurity in Central Asia: The imperative for regional and international cooperation” details the developing water crises in Central Asia and outlines strategies to combat water insecurity in the region.

Poland’s democracy stands firm, but its economy faces headwinds

By Leszek Balcerowicz

Despite recent political turmoil, Poland has shown resilience in defending democracy and the rule of law. However, its economic outlook is less certain, as challenges such as incomplete post-Soviet privatization, high fiscal spending, and demographic shifts are threatening long-term growth.

Surrounded by superpowers, Kazakhstan walks a geopolitical tightrope

By Nargis Kassenova

Still a relatively young nation, Kazakhstan finds itself at critical juncture amid a series of domestic and geopolitical shocks. Its future depends on the success of economic liberalization efforts—and a delicate balancing act: The country must strengthen ties with the West and simultaneously manage its relations with powerful neighbors like Russia and China.

Demographic shifts in Spain call for reinvigorated reforms

By Toni Roldán Monés

While Spain continues to perform well in the Freedom and Prosperity Indexes, sustaining this performance will involve overhauling the education system, pursuing political reforms to enhance institutional strength, and preserving fiscal sustainability amidst changing demographics.