Content

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

Event Recap

Jul 10, 2020

Dr. Dambisa Moyo, panel reinvigorate debate on a Marshall Plan for Africa

By Africa Center

On Friday, July 10, the Africa Center hosted a panel discussion on whether the time has come for a Marshall Plan for Africa. The panel featured Global Economist and Author Dr. Dambisa Moyo, former US Congressman Dr. David Brat, and Africa Center Senior Fellow Ms. Aubrey Hruby. The virtual conversation was moderated by Africa Center Senior Fellow Mr. Gabriel Negatu, with opening and concluding remarks given by the Center’s Director of Programs and Studies Ms. Bronwyn Bruton.

Africa
Corruption

New Atlanticist

Jul 2, 2020

Hezbollah takes control of Lebanon’s judiciary in assault on rule of law

By Michael D. Barbero

Lebanon is a nation in crisis. Just as Hezbollah is the main cause of the current economic crisis, Hezbollah, through its FPM allies, is also the impetus for the assault on the rule of law. The Hezbollahization of Lebanon must be reversed. Reforming one broken sector in Lebanon without restoring the rule of law—the most foundational pillar of Lebanese society—will play into Hezbollah’s hands, continue the misery of the Lebanese people, and ensure Lebanon’s inevitable failure.

Civil Society
Corruption

Report

Jun 29, 2020

Ukrainian business leaders advocated better economic policy and rule of law: A report card

By Anders Åslund

During his presidency, President Zelenskyy promised to bring major reform to Ukraine. One year on, what reforms have been achieved, and what obstacles remain for Ukraine?

Corruption
Democratic Transitions

UkraineAlert

Jun 22, 2020

What could the prosecution of Petro Poroshenko mean for Ukrainian democracy?

By Peter Dickinson

Escalating efforts to prosecute former Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko are sparking concerns over the country's continued commitment to democracy under new president Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Corruption
Democratic Transitions

UkraineAlert

Jun 10, 2020

Ukraine’s $7 billion Russian gas transit deal at risk amid claims of political pressure

By Aura Sabadus

Alleged political pressure targeting Ukraine's recently unbundled gas transmission system operator GTSO is threatening to undo Ukraine's energy sector reforms and derail a multi-billion dollar transit contract with Russia's Gazprom.

Corruption
Energy Markets & Governance

In the News

May 27, 2020

Herbst quoted by the Washington Post on the risk of Ukraine being drawn into the US election

By Atlantic Council

Corruption
Elections

In the News

May 13, 2020

Åslund quoted by The Washington Post on Ukraine’s IMF prospects

By Atlantic Council

Corruption
English

UkraineAlert

May 13, 2020

Ukraine approves crucial anti-oligarch banking law

By Anders Åslund

Ukrainian MPs have adopted legislation to prevent former owners regaining banks nationalized during recent reforms. The move is a blow to Ukrainian oligarch Ihor Kolomoiskiy and paves the way for a new IMF program.

Corruption
Economy & Business

In the News

May 11, 2020

Klain in The National Interest: Putin Must Lead Russia’s Battle Against the Coronavirus

By Atlantic Council

Coronavirus
Corruption

Experts