Posts From Chris Solomon

Back to homepage
Middle East/North Africa Politics

Women rise up in the Middle East

As the world focuses on the region’s violent geopolitical struggles, a quiet revolution is taking place. The women of the Middle East are making remarkable gains in politics and businesses.

Middle East/North Africa Security

Can the US and Russia find agreement on Syria after the nuclear deal?

Discussions between high level US and Russian diplomatic officials over Syria may be signaling the conflict is entering its end phase. With the Iranian nuclear agreement finalized, bilateral cooperation on

Middle East/North Africa Politics

The March 8 Alliance’s effect on Lebanon’s economy

The March 8 Alliance coalition that holds together Lebanon’s pro-Syrian factions remains strong despite the Syrian Civil War continuing into its fifth year. How will the March 8 Alliance affect

Europe Middle East/North Africa

Four takeaways from Sisi’s visit to Germany

Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, held off on hosting Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, but eventually gave in. As Europe’s largest economy continues exercising soft power, how does the Arab world’s

Economics South and Central Asia

What does Jayalalithaa’s return mean for Tamil Nadu’s economy?

Tamil Nadu, a southeast Indian state, has suffered from an unsteady economy and high youth unemployment. In May, Tamil Nadu’s popular Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa returned for a fifth term after being

Middle East/North Africa Politics

Will Qatar’s support for the Muslim Brotherhood harm its Western backing?

Qatar’s intrepid foreign policy has led to isolation among their traditional Arab Gulf allies such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Will the wealthy kingdom find a way to protect

Middle East/North Africa Security

Will Jabhat al-Nusra eclipse Islamic State in Syria?

Jihadist groups have made some recent military gains against the regime forces in Syria. Both the Assad regime and Islamic State are under extreme political and economic pressure. Could Jabhat

Middle East/North Africa Politics

What lies ahead for the Palestinian Authority?

The Palestinian Authority is facing a leadership crisis. Is Mohammed Dahlan positioned to become the next leader of the Palestinians? The issue of leadership succession in the Middle East is

Middle East/North Africa Politics

Two ways WWII’s legacy still links Europe to the Middle East

This May 7th marks the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII in Europe (VE Day). Just a short distance away, the Middle East still remains a major source of

Economics North America

US Cities Series: Pittsburgh makes its mark as an international city

A model of economic transformation, Pittsburgh today is known for its innovation, energy, and as a center for education and healthcare. But is the Steel City on track to become