The rise of private contractors in Iraq
As the United States withdraws its combat forces from Iraq, the government is hiring more private guards to protect U.S. installations at a cost that could near $1 billion, according to the special inspector general for Iraq reconstruction.
Geopolitics, History, and the Post-COVID World
We have heard chorus of commentaries in recent months that COVID-19 is a crisis that will “change the world forever.” It wouldn’t be the first time that the global order is refashioned in such a way.
The View from Zimbabwe: Corruption, Hunger, and Deprivation
Once the breadbasket of southern Africa, Zimbabwe is today one of the poorest countries in the continent.
Guinea-Bissau Election
As if the instability and unrest of 2011 had not been enough for Guinea-Bissau, President Malam Bacai Sanhá died on 9 January 2012 after a prolonged illness. This triggered a race for power and brought the country's fate into question. This article discusses the presidential election scheduled for March 18 in the context of this political turmoil.
Iran’s Regional Grand Project Wobbles
Iran’s region-wide geopolitical project is now imperiled on multiple fronts, including at home.
Fact Sheet: China-Central Asia-Western Asia Corridor
An overview of the China-Central Asia-Western Asia Corridor, one of the main economic conduits envisioned by China’s One Belt One Road Initiative.
Global Forecast (05-29-2017)
The fight to retake Marawi in the southern Philippines, Trump’s first FONOP in the South China Sea, and Merkel makes some history.
Lebanon’s PM Still MIA in Saudi Arabia
What comes next in the Saad Hariri affair? De-escalation or a new crisis in the Middle East?
Is Bangladesh the Newest Addition to China’s ‘String of Pearls’?
Bangladesh may be drifting away from its traditional ally India and right into China’s wider regional plans.