Successive U.S. administrations have sought to justify controversial domestic surveillance programs amid criticism from Congress and rights activists, explains this Backgrounder.

Rising demand stands to increase the strain on the already taxed U.S. power grid. Without intervention, the system could become even more susceptible to terrorist attacks and acts of nature.

Iraq’s failing economy helps feed the cycle of violence there. Beyond restoring security, however, experts disagree over how to resuscitate it.

Western efforts to rebuild Iraq have focused on military and political progress but revival of civilian infrastructure lags badly.