The G7 serves as a forum for highly industrialized democracies to coordinate economic, security, and energy policy, but critics say that its membership is outdated, undermining its relevance to global governance.
Health
With the United States likely to pull back on global health funding, the World Health Organization, under its new director-general, will need to undertake serious structural and administrative changes.
Iran
The reelection of Iran’s Hassan Rouhani, as well as U.S. President Donald J. Trump’s strong affirmation of ties with Sunni Arab states, sets the stage for an intense new round of competition in the Middle East.
NATO
Russian aggression in Ukraine has breathed new life into the Cold War-era security alliance, prompting allies to reinforce defenses in Eastern Europe and expand cooperation with nonmembers.
Experts explore policy options for the United States and Europe, including the possibility of a Western reset with Russia and the efficacy of sanctions.
Global Governance
Andrew Natsios, former Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, joins CFR's James M. Lindsay and Robert McMahon in examining the U.S. role in mitigating famine and humanitarian crises abroad.
CFR on the Record
Experts discuss recent terrorist attacks that have unsettled cities in Europe, and lessons to be learned to prevent future attacks around the world.
This session addresses strategies to counter violent extremism by capitalizing on the contributions of women.
Philip H. Gordon, Farah Pandith, and James M. Lindsay discuss the future of the Middle East.
Expert Spotlight
Explainers
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Democratic Republic of Congo
The Eastern Congo
The eastern Congo has been ravaged by foreign invasions and homegrown rebellions that have killed and displaced millions. A fragile peace process seeks to bring stability to central Africa, but its hard-won gains remain at risk.
Trade
NAFTA’s Economic Impact
More than twenty years after its implementation, the North American Free Trade Agreement continues to spur debate over its impact on economic growth and jobs. (Photo: Josue Gonzalez/Reuters)
Sub-Saharan Africa
Africa’s ‘Leaders for Life’ Syndrome
Sub-Saharan Africa is home to many of the world’s longest-ruling heads of state, but civil society and regional blocs may be slowing the trend of extending presidential terms in some areas.
China
China’s Big Bet on Soft Power
China is believed to spend billions of dollars to boost its international image, but it has yet to see a marked return on its investment in soft power.
United States
How Does the U.S. Spend Its Foreign Aid?
With President Donald J. Trump advocating for deep cuts to U.S. foreign aid, debate has renewed over the role of foreign assistance funds in boosting growth, promoting democracy, and saving lives.
Experts in the News
Featured Publications
In this biography of Alan Greenspan, Sebastian Mallaby brilliantly explores Greenspan's life and legacy and tells the story of the making of modern finance.
CFR President Richard N. Haass argues for an updated global operating system to address challenges from terrorism and the spread of nuclear weapons to climate change and cyberspace.
The definitive account of the secret war in the tiny Southeast Asian nation of Laos, which lasted almost two decades and forever changed the CIA’s controversial role in foreign policy.