In-depth research and reports

Our programs and centers deliver relevant, policy-focused research that matters to inform debate and action. Our focus is always on moving debate forward, integrating analysis with active, relevant conclusions throughout our published work.

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 5, 2025

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.

Civil Society Eastern Europe

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 4, 2025

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.

Economy & Business Education

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 30, 2025

Peru’s economy needs to unlock its green potential

By Liliana Rojas-Suarez

Peru’s green transition offers a path to prosperity through renewable energy, critical minerals, and job creation. Prioritizing infrastructure, labor market reforms, and human capital development can drive growth. Political consensus around this vision is key to overcoming institutional weaknesses and positioning Peru as a global leader in the green economy.

Economy & Business Energy Transitions

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 28, 2025

After the Monsoon Revolution, Bangladesh’s economy and government need major reforms

By Ahmed Mushfiq Mobarak

In 2024, Bangladesh’s student-led “Monsoon Revolution” ousted an entrenched autocratic regime, marking a historic shift. Yet, with deep systemic corruption and political resistance, the road to stability remains uncertain.

Bangladesh Corruption

Report

Jan 23, 2025

From Russia’s shadow fleet to China’s maritime claims: The freedom of the seas is under threat

By Elisabeth Braw

This report analyzes the deterioration of the global maritime order, focusing on rule violations in areas including maritime border alteration, harassment of civilian vessels, and disturbance of navigational tools

China Europe & Eurasia
georgia

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 23, 2025

Georgia protests highlight urgent need for government reforms

By Tinatin Khidasheli

Recent democratic regression in Georgia undermines the rights of citizens and threatens long-term prosperity. To restore faith in Georgian democracy and build on past economic progress, the government must address challenges related to the judiciary, Russian influence, and social inequalities.

Europe & Eurasia Freedom and Prosperity

Report

Jan 23, 2025

Could Ankara and Cairo develop a more effective diplomatic approach to Sudan’s civil war?

By Nebahat Tanriverdi Yasar

The ousting of Omar al-Bashir in 2019 ushered in a period of profound political instability in Sudan.

Africa Security & Defense

Report

Jan 23, 2025

In the Horn of Africa, Turkey and Egypt unfold a strategic alignment—or potential rivalry

By Federico Donelli

The recent reconciliation between Turkey and Egypt illustrates the potential for cooperation in the Horn of Africa.

Africa Ethiopia

Report

Jan 23, 2025

Will rapprochement unlock the full potential of the Eastern Mediterranean’s natural gas wealth?

By Mona Sukkarieh

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi’s official visit to Turkey on September 4 represented a significant milestone for the two countries.

Energy & Environment Middle East

Report

Jan 23, 2025

Together, Egypt and Turkey may have what it takes to restart Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations

By Abderahman Salaheldin

The Egyptian-Turkish summit in Ankara on September 4 marked years of efforts to normalize relations between the two countries.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

Report

Jan 23, 2025

Turkey and Egypt want better relations. But will Libya doom the rapprochement?

By Alia Brahimi

One major effect of the war in Gaza was to accelerate a rapprochement between rival regional hegemons, Turkey and Egypt.

Libya Middle East

Report

Jan 23, 2025

From rivalry to cooperation: The geopolitical implications of Egypt-Turkey rapprochement

By Karim Mezran, Valeria Talbot, Mona Sukkarieh, Alia Brahimi, Nebahat Tanriverdi, Federico Donelli, Abderahman Salaheldin

Turkey and Egypt’s recent rapprochement comes after years of tension.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 23, 2025

On prosperity, Taiwan ranks high—but its future hinges on Chinese power plays

By Shelley Rigger

Taiwan’s democracy has thrived for over three decades, defined by vibrant elections and a deep pride in its liberal institutions. Despite Beijing's persistent threats of a takeover, Taiwan’s global economic significance acts as a buffer against conflict. Yet, the country's future remains uncertain as it must balance its economic and political ideals with escalating geopolitical tensions.

Democratic Transitions East Asia

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 23, 2025

Greece’s population must be given reason to trust its government

By Elias Papaioannou

As Greece celebrates fifty years since the restoration of democracy, its government must prioritize rebuilding public trust in politics, creating expansive economic opportunity, protecting pristine landscapes, and investing in health and education.

Economy & Business Energy & Environment

Issue Brief

Jan 23, 2025

‘Maximum pressure’ sanctions on Venezuela help US adversaries, hurt Venezuelans

By William Tobin

The "maximum pressure" strategy employed from 2018 to 2022 against the illegitimate Nicolás Maduro regime in Venezuela did not serve US interests. In this issue brief, the author argues that US sanctions must be linked to clear, targeted objectives.

Economy & Business Energy & Environment

Issue Brief

Jan 17, 2025

Syria’s energy sector and its impact on stability and regional developments

By Brenda Shaffer

An analysis of Syria’s energy resources and infrastructure, and outlook on the future of Syrian energy production and trade.

Energy & Environment Energy Markets & Governance

Report

Jan 15, 2025

Securing a free and open world: A US-EU blueprint to counter China and Russia

By Kaush Arha, Peter Harrell, and Jörn Fleck

An enhanced strategic partnership between the United States and the European Union can advance interests for both sides amid immense geopolitical challenges.

China Defense Industry

Report

Jan 14, 2025

The next decade of strategic competition: How the Pentagon can use special operations forces to better compete

By Clementine G. Starling-Daniels, Theresa Luetkefend

Clementine G. Starling and Theresa Luetkefend discuss how the Department of Defense and Joint force should more effectively leverage Special Operations forces in strategic competition.

Africa China

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 9, 2025

Morocco’s government must foster greater economic competition

By Rabah Arezki

While Morocco has made notable strides to enhance freedom and prosperity in the past three decades, the government must address pervasive corruption and encourage greater economic competition to build on recent progress.

Civil Society Corruption

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 8, 2025

Venezuela’s 2024 stolen election compounds challenges to stability and democratic renewal

By Sary Levy-Carciente

The 2024 Venezuela elections mark a pivotal choice for the country's future. The nation faces two distinct paths: continued instability and restricted freedoms or democratic reforms that restore political rights, drive economic recovery, and reintegrate Venezuela into the global community. A comprehensive recovery plan focused on dignity, accountability, and economic transformation offers a clear path toward renewal and prosperity.

Democratic Transitions Elections
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