Backgrounders

Current political and economic issues succinctly explained.

The U.S.-Japan Security Alliance

Author: Beina Xu

The U.S.-Japan alliance has been the cornerstone of Washington's security policy in East Asia, but rising threats from China, North Korea, and economic recovery in both countries have raised questions about the future of the rapport.

See more in Japan; Defense and Security

Sarin

Author: Zachary Laub

Sarin, one of the world's most lethal chemical weapons, has long been stockpiled but is rarely used by states or terrorists. Allegations of attacks on civilians in Syria, if substantiated, would represent a departure from longstanding international practice, this Backgrounder explains.

See more in Weapons of Mass Destruction; Syria

The Taliban in Afghanistan

Authors: Jayshree Bajoria and Zachary Laub

As the United States draws down forces in Afghanistan, the Taliban insurgency continues to challenge the government in Kabul while holding out the prospect of a negotiated settlement, explains this Backgrounder.

See more in Terrorism; Afghanistan

Same-Sex Marriage: Global Comparisons

Author: CFR.org Staff

The movement to recognize same-sex marriage continues to gain traction worldwide, though homophobia still persists within societies. This Backgrounder examines policies toward same-sex couples in select countries.

See more in Global; Society and Culture

Human Rights in Iran

Authors: Jayshree Bajoria and Robert McMahon

Global monitors say Iran's human rights situation is poor and unlikely to improve amid a climate of political uncertainty and growing external pressures. But activists urge continued international scrutiny of Iran's violations.

See more in Iran; Human Rights

Abenomics and the Japanese Economy

Author: Beina Xu

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has focused his second term in office to implementing an audacious set of economic policies designed to spur the country out of its decades-long deflation and sluggish growth, explains this Backgrounder.

See more in Japan; Economics

U.S. Antitrust Policy

Author: Steven J. Markovich

Antitrust law, which has evolved primarily through landmark Supreme Court cases, plays an essential role in the maintenance of efficient markets and promotion of long-term U.S. economic prosperity.

See more in United States; Corporate Regulation