China's loudest and most nationalistic voices aren't necessarily its most influential; behind the monochromatic official announcements lies a debate and lack of consensus about Chinese direction, both internal and external, Allen Carlson writes in the Diplomat.

Michelle Bachelet, Executive Director of UN Women and former president of Chile, discusses the empowerment of women around the world with CFR's Director of Studies, James Lindsay. Bachelet emphasizes the importance of contextualizing the support provided in each country, and the need to combine both top-down and bottom-up approaches.

The United States Government Accountability Office outlines methods in which assistance to Pakistan could be better strategized.

This report from Stratfor Global Intelligence analyzes the recent increase in anti-Christian attacks by Islamists in Egypt, and explains the historical context that has led to an uncertain political future for the country.

The recent bombing of a Coptic Church in Egypt underscores deep sectarian tensions and reflects the need for a more open and tolerant society, says CFR's Steven Cook, but Egypt's government would rather ignore underlying political causes.

An increase in terror incidents involving Islamic radicals who are U.S. citizens is vexing law enforcement officials and posing new questions about the roots of their radicalization.

The Economist offers views from Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin and two Israeli academics on whether Israel can still be considered a democracy, given its regional policies.

Deep seated sectarian differences are the root of political instability in Lebanon, writes Mohamad Bazzi.

"What is wrong with Lebanon and why is it so hard for elected politicians to form a government?" asks Mohamad Bazzi, citing an obsolete political system as a reason for government instability.

Veteran reporter Jane Arraf says the massive truck bombings of August 19 in Baghdad have shaken the people and government. She says the United States may have to take a new look at the policy of leaving security under Iraqi control in urban centers.

As China transforms the economy, politics, and demographics of Xinjiang, Uighurs accuse China of engaging in imperialism.

Beset by increased terror attacks and political infighting, Pakistan's viability as a state is a matter of increasing concern. Experts call for reforming weak civil institutions, resolving ethnic disputes, and checking the power of the military.

A brief overview of the Israeli political system.

The resignation of South African President Thabo Mbeki has exposed a rift in the ruling ANC party, raising questions about the future of one of the continent's champions and a regional powerbroker.

Amid political uncertainty in Bangkok, a violent insurgency continues in the country's majority Malay Muslim provinces in the south, with no possible settlement in sight.

Oil and the status of Kirkuk continue to divide Iraq's central government and the Kurdish region, but signs of political progress are emerging.

Edward Friedman, an expert on Chinese nationalism, says China’s ethnic Han majority views minorities like Tibetans and Uighurs as "people who should be incorporated into the larger Chinese state."

Pakistan’s civilian government has asserted a new policy in dealing with terrorists on its territory, posing challenges for Washington.

Newsweek's Melinda Liu argues that even though the Dalai Lama wants to talk peace, the anger of his long-suffering people is only hardening.