This publication is now archived. IntroductionDefining a year just past is often a matter of perspective. Sometimes it’s self-evident: 1989 saw communism fall in Europe, 2001 saw terrorism arrive in …

This publication is now archived. IntroductionRussia’s oil exports are up, its currency is strong, and its gross domestic product (GDP) growth has hummed along at a 7 percent clip for the seventh yea…

Lawmakers are considering sharp cuts to defense spending as part of mandated deficit-reduction efforts. This Backgrounder discusses the effects of such major cuts and implications for U.S. military s…

This publication is now archived. What are the differences among the competing congressional proposals to reform the U.S. intelligence community?Congress is considering two different proposals. The S…

Pakistan is bracing for more turbulence in the wake of Osama bin Laden’s killing. This Backgrounder looks at how state support for Islamist militants has led to growing religious intolerance in socie…