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October 12, 2023

International Organizations
The World Bank Group’s Role in Global Development

Since its founding in 1944, the World Bank has evolved from a lender focused on European reconstruction to the preeminent international institution for economic development and poverty reduction.

A woman reads in front of a chalkboard in an outdoor classroom in Niger.
Backgrounder by Jonathan Masters, Noah Berman, and Andrew Chatzky

February 9, 2018

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.

An African student practices Shaolin martial arts in Henan Province.
Backgrounder by Eleanor Albert

July 19, 2010

Defense and Security
U.S. Drone Activities in Pakistan

The reliance on unmanned drones to target terror suspects in Pakistan has been quietly lauded by U.S. officials. But the covert program, which has so far gotten little public scrutiny, is facing moun…

Backgrounder by Greg Bruno

September 28, 2007

Iraq
The Iraq Data Debate: Civilian Casualties from 2006 to 2007

Gen. David Petraeus’ assertions about falling casualties in Iraq are supported by a range of objective sources. But his testimony to Congress does not establish whether the decline is attributable to…

Backgrounder by Stephen Biddle and Jeffrey Friedman

December 4, 2008

Budget, Debt, and Deficits
Defense Spending During Economic Crisis

President-elect Barack Obama made many promises on defense spending and strategy during his two-year run for the White House. But analysts say economic constraints and political pressure could make i…

Backgrounder by Greg Bruno