Politics & Diplomacy

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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The EU needs a more comprehensive plan to aid Ukraine

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
The EU needs a more comprehensive plan to aid Ukraine

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
The EU needs a more comprehensive plan to aid Ukraine

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

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

Egypt grapples with political uncertainty under El-Sisi

By Rabah Arezki

Egypt faces economic challenges with heavy debt and political unrest. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's reelection may not prompt reforms, exacerbating inflation and currency devaluation. Gulf aid hinges on reforms, while militarization impedes change. Regional tensions heighten instability risks.

Conflict Elections

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

South Africa needs political change to meet economic demands

By Greg Mills

South Africa's future hinges on political changes, especially the potential shift to a coalition government in the 2024 election. Economic challenges, including rising debt, demand urgent reforms. Global alliances, notably with BRICS and China, affect trade dynamics, emphasizing the need for diversification.

Africa Elections

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

Russia will suffer decreases in every dimension of prosperity

By Konstantin Sonin

Over fifteen years, Russia's economy stagnated with low growth and persistent inequality. Challenges include minority rights restrictions, healthcare issues, and an educational crisis due to teacher exodus.

Europe & Eurasia Freedom and Prosperity

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

Regaining trust in government

By Simeon Djankov, Joseph Lemoine, Dan Negrea

Crises like COVID-19 prompt increased government control, challenging liberal values. Declining trust in governments clashes with security needs, urging policies to balance freedom and prosperity. Energy security challenges hinder net-zero goals, posing economic challenges globally, alongside privacy dilemmas amid surveillance tech in China, Russia, and the Middle East.

Civil Society Freedom and Prosperity

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 26, 2024

Ukraine’s recovery hinges on allied support

By Yuriy Gorodnichenko

Ukraine faces challenges with its judicial system and war aftermath, including destruction, displacement, and educational setbacks. Recovery will require allied support and strategic policies.

Europe & Eurasia Freedom and Prosperity
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Experts

Staff

Giovana Cardoso

Associate Director, Development

Digital Forensic Research Lab

Brazil Human Rights

Millennium fellow

Tim Carlton Jones

Head of International Affairs, UK, Edelman

Millennium Leadership Program

Education Middle East

Fellow

Michael Carpenter

Distinguished Fellow

Eurasia Center Europe Center

Eastern Europe National Security

Millennium fellow

Dominique Carter

Principal, Lewis-Burke & Associates

Millennium Leadership Program

Politics & Diplomacy

Fellow

Dakota Cary

Nonresident Fellow

Global China Hub

China Cybersecurity

Millennium fellow

Teodor Cataniciu

Founder, OVO Europa

Millennium Leadership Program

Eastern Europe Entrepreneurship
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Events

Public Event Fri, June 12, 2026 • 4:30 pm ET

Privileged but Powerless: Jieun Baek on Pyongyang’s greatest weakness
East Asia Human Rights Indo-Pacific Korea
Public Event Mon, June 15, 2026 • 12:30 pm ET

How should the United States counter Russia and China’s hybrid warfare?
China East Asia Eastern Europe Europe & Eurasia
Public Event Mon, June 15, 2026 • 3:00 pm ET

The Power of Sports Embassy Dialogues: Panama and Croatia
Americas Europe & Eurasia Latin America Politics & Diplomacy