Politics & Diplomacy

Healthy democratic societies are governed through the holding of elections, passage of policies through government institutions, and equal application of the law to all citizens. These activities influence not only the internal decisions of these societies, but also inform the ways countries interact with their regional and global neighbors, whether through direct bilateral ties or encompassed in larger international organizations.

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Redefining US strategy with Latin America and the Caribbean for a new era

New Atlanticist Mar 18, 2025

The Gaza cease-fire is over. What’s next from Israel, Hamas, and the US?

By Atlantic Council experts

In the early hours of March 18, Israel launched air strikes on Gaza, ending the two-month cease-fire. Atlantic Council experts answer pressing questions about the resumed conflict.
Conflict Israel
Redefining US strategy with Latin America and the Caribbean for a new era

New Atlanticist Mar 17, 2025

Enough carrots for Putin. For better negotiations, serve ‘maximum pressure’ instead.

By Benjamin L. Schmitt, Richard L. Morningstar, and Daniel Fried

Since Russia appears content for negotiations to move slowly, the Trump administration should turn up the pressure with new sanctions.
Conflict Financial Sanctions and Economic Coercion
Redefining US strategy with Latin America and the Caribbean for a new era

Issue Brief Mar 13, 2025

Present without impact? How the Middle East perceives China’s diplomatic engagement

By Jonathan Fulton

Despite economic advancements and high-profile diplomatic engagements, China’s influence remains largely economic rather than political, Jonathan Fulton argues.
China Economy & Business

Content

Report

Feb 26, 2024

Redefining US strategy with Latin America and the Caribbean for a new era

By Jason Marczak, María Fernanda Bozmoski, Matthew Kroenig

The strategic interest of the United States and the countries of Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) lies in strengthening their western hemisphere partnership. However, the perception of waning US interest and the rise of external influences necessitate the rejuvenation of and renewed focus on this partnership.

Caribbean Economy & Business

New Atlanticist

Feb 26, 2024

It’s Swe-done: What’s next for NATO now that Hungary has approved Sweden’s bid to join

By Atlantic Council experts

Hungary’s parliament has ratified Sweden’s accession to NATO, the final approval needed. Atlantic Council experts share their insights on the about-to-be thirty-two member Alliance.

Europe & Eurasia NATO

MENASource

Feb 26, 2024

I’m a Yemeni minister and I believe the Houthi designation is not enough

By Moammar Al-Eryani

The Biden administration’s decision to revoke the Houthi terrorist designation contributed to the complexity of the Yemeni crisis. To avoid replicating the same scenario, a new approach must be taken to counter the Houthis.

Conflict Israel

New Atlanticist

Feb 26, 2024

The EU needs a more comprehensive plan to aid Ukraine

By Michael John Williams

Brussels has an important role to play in terms of pan-European defense procurement, military training, and economic recovery in Ukraine.

Conflict Defense Policy

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

Saudi Arabia’s economic shifts under MBS raise stability concerns

By Rabah Arezki

Saudi Arabia's economic transformation under MBS maintains political control, risking instability amid regional conflicts. Reliance on public funds for investments may falter as the world shifts from fossil fuels, and demands for political freedom grow.

Economy & Business Freedom and Prosperity

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

Rising US public debt threatens economic freedom

By Edward Glaeser

US public debt has surged, posing risks to economic freedom. Despite stability expectations, reforms are needed, like deregulating small businesses and improving urban schools. However, political polarization and the dominance of identity politics hinder progress towards these goals.

Economy & Business Education

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

Pakistan faces urgent need for comprehensive reforms to spur long-term growth and stability

By Ali Cheema

Pakistan needs extensive economic and institutional reforms to boost long-term growth and prosperity. These reforms involve improving property rights, increasing public investment in education and health, and addressing political polarization. A new political settlement is necessary to foster stability and enable these reforms.

Freedom and Prosperity Inclusive Growth

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

EU’s future prosperity will be marked by war in Ukraine

By Simeon Djankov

The EU’s freedom and prosperity dynamics will be marked by the war in Ukraine. The indexes provoke philosophical reflection: Is Europe's prosperity dwindling due to an extensive social safety net? Is the strength of European integration declining with new members, while the strength of EU federalism diminishes?

Europe & Eurasia European Union

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

Climate crisis fuels change in MENA region

By Rabah Arezki

The region faces economic and political transitions amid geopolitical risks, climate change, and energy market shifts. Escalating conflicts are exacerbating instability. Climate change poses existential threats, intensifying water crises and domestic tensions. Socioeconomic transformation will be vital to meet youth aspirations and tackle polarization.

Climate Change & Climate Action Economy & Business

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

China’s authoritarian trend meets resistance in East Asia and the Pacific

By Kelley E. Currie

China's influence shapes political and economic dynamics in East Asia and the Pacific. Despite resistance, its practices hinder freedom across the region. Youth movements demand responsive systems. Weak institutions and challenges like inequality persist, requiring diversified economic strategies and strengthened democracies to navigate regional complexities.

China Democratic Transitions
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Experts

Fellow

Diane Francis

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Eurasia Center

Ukraine

Fellow

Daniel Fried

Weiser Family Distinguished Fellow

Economic Statecraft Initiative Eurasia Center

Eastern Europe Democratic Transitions

Staff

Uri Friedman

Senior Editorial Director

Coronavirus Democratic Transitions

Fellow

Akiko Fukushima

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Indo-Pacific Security Initiative Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security

Defense Policy East Asia

Fellow

Jonathan Fulton

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative

China Chinese

Fellow

Yevgeniya Gaber

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Atlantic Council Turkey Program

Eastern Europe English
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Events

Public Event Fri, March 20, 2026 • 2:00 pm ET

The fight for influence in Venezuela against Russia, China, Iran, and Cuba
Americas Latin America Politics & Diplomacy Venezuela
Public Event Mon, March 23, 2026 • 10:00 am ET

Kurt Campbell on what to expect from Trump’s Beijing visit
China Economy & Business Politics & Diplomacy Technology & Innovation
Flagship Event Thu, April 9, 2026 • 9:00 am ET

Global Prosperity Forum

The Global Prosperity Forum brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and scholars to explore actionable solutions for global development, freedom, democracy, and shared prosperity.
Entrepreneurship Freedom and Prosperity Inclusive Growth Political Reform
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