This publication is now archived. What is the status of the U.S.-led reconstruction efforts in Iraq?The reconstruction of Iraq has been hampered by a number of hurdles, including government bureaucra…

This publication is now archived. IntroductionAs Iraq prepares to hold elections for a new government, cfr.org looks at the country’s rapidly expanding media options. "Iraqis are avid listeners, watc…

Bashar al-Assad, whose regime looked shaky under international pressure last year, is consolidating his power and cracking down on dissent. Despite a UN probe linking Syrian officials to the assassin…

The Democrats now leading both houses of Congress will exercise strong influence on U.S. trade matters. Experts expect a slowdown in action on trade deals and a tough battle for renewal of the presid…