March 12, 2019
United KingdomThe Good Friday Agreement has dampened sectarian tensions and brought stability to Northern Ireland since 1998, but Brexit negotiations and local political paralysis are throwing the region’s hard-wo…
February 23, 2010
Climate ChangeDebating global warming policy has moved to the top of agendas worldwide, but some skeptics still question whether action is necessary or possible.
August 8, 2018
NigeriaBoko Haram, known for mass kidnappings, bombings, and other acts of terrorism, remains an enduring threat to northern Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin.
January 20, 2012
IranWith oil supplies tight, regions most vulnerable to oil supply disruptions present a significant economic concern, particularly threats to the Strait of Hormuz and unrest in Nigeria, explains this Ba…
January 24, 2013
United StatesU.S. foreign policy is largely directed by presidents, but Congress does have considerable influence, as this CFR Backgrounder explains.
January 16, 2013
Food and Water SecurityGlobal food prices are being driven up by a number of factors including bad weather, low stocks, and unstable commodities markets. Combating price volatility and protecting food security will take in…
December 6, 2012
United StatesWith the Middle East unrest ongoing and the global economy recovering, gasoline prices are rising considerably. But policies to ease U.S. consumer impact take time and policymakers are divided over t…
August 23, 2012
United StatesU.S. presidential nominating conventions often touch on national security and foreign policy, but don’t always signal the direction of a winning candidate’s policy, explains this Backgrounder.
March 26, 2012
United StatesSome analysts say healthcare costs hinder U.S. industry competitiveness in the global marketplace, but it’s unclear whether proposed health reforms will offer any cost relief.
November 3, 2011
Climate ChangeGreenhouse gas trading is now a multibillion-dollar international business and is expected to continue to grow, despite uncertainty about a post-2012 international climate regime.