Content

Report

Jun 30, 2025

Second-order impacts of civil artificial intelligence regulation on defense: Why the national security community must engage

By Deborah Cheverton

Civil regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) is hugely complex and evolving quickly, with even otherwise well-aligned countries taking significantly different approaches. At first glance, little in the content of these regulations is directly applicable to the defense and national security community.

Artificial Intelligence Defense Technologies
Blurred photo of a malware sample in the Ghidra reverse engineering

Report

Jun 25, 2025

Crash (exploit) and burn: Securing the offensive cyber supply chain to counter China in cyberspace 

By Winnona DeSombre Bernsen

If the United States wishes to compete in cyberspace, it must compete against China to secure its offensive cyber supply chain.

China Cybersecurity

Report

Jun 23, 2025

2025 Freedom and Prosperity Indexes: How political freedom drives growth

By Ignacio Campomanes, Nina Dannaoui-Johnson, Annie (Yu-Lin) Lee, Joseph Lemoine

As the Freedom and Prosperity Indexes show political freedom declining worldwide for the twelfth straight year, new data analysis shows its importance for lasting prosperity: Though authoritarians promise economic rewards, democratizing countries gain an 8.8 percent GDP per capita boost over twenty years than their autocratic peers. With democracy on the ropes, what else can the Indexes tell us?

China Civil Society

Report

Jun 23, 2025

Building electricity bridges: The critical role of high-voltage direct current lines

By Joseph Webster, Frank Willey

A report on the potential of long distance HVDC electric cables and their critical role in regional connectivity for a secure, affordable, and cleaner energy future.

Africa Central Asia

Report

Jun 20, 2025

A guide to national security space trends in the GCC

By AzurX and Graham Brookie

AzurX provides a comprehensive picture of the innovative strategies, ambitious missions, and inspiring visions propelling GCC nation space programs to new heights.

Space Space Security

Report

Jun 17, 2025

Great sea connections: Financing the Eastern Mediterranean’s energy transition

By Karim Elgendy

This report proposes frameworks for innovative financial mechanisms to simultaneously advance technological leapfrogging, economic development, and regional cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Africa Energy & Environment
Cover image for Keeping China at bay and critical minerals stocked: The case for US-Africa defense collaboration

Report

Jun 6, 2025

Keeping China at bay and critical minerals stocked: The case for US-Africa defense collaboration

By Aleksandra Gadzala Tirziu

As Russia, China, and other authoritarian powers expand their global reach, US security is at stake. To stay competitive, the United States must turn to Africa—for both critical minerals and partnership in countering rising adversarial influence on the continent.

Africa Non-Traditional Threats

Report

Jun 2, 2025

The fall of Assad has opened a door. But can Syria seize the moment?

By Qutaiba Idlbi, Charles Lister, and Marie Forestier

This report presents a realistic and holistic vision for Syria's transition, recovery, and its reintegration into the international system.

Civil Society Crisis Management

Annual Report

May 30, 2025

2024 honor roll of contributors

By the Atlantic Council

The Atlantic Council is grateful for the generous support of its partners. Explore the 2024 honor roll of contributions.

Report

May 29, 2025

Why Latin America and the Caribbean matter for OECD countries

By Jason Marczak, Martin Cassinelli

Latin America and the Caribbean are increasingly vital partners for OECD countries, offering critical minerals, food security, and clean energy assets. With democratic institutions, open markets, and active multilateral engagement, the region supports global resilience. Strengthened OECD–LAC cooperation can advance shared goals in economic security amid shifting global dynamics.

Americas Caribbean