Since the end of the civil war in 2003, Liberia has become an example of progress and peaceful democratic transition for other countries emerging from conflict. However, there is a possibility that economic and political instability, and unrest, could evolve in the coming years due to the risk of food insecurity.

As hundreds of foreign fighters from the Western Balkans return home, it’s unclear whether governments are prepared to deal with the issues of prosecution and rehabilitation. Leonie Vrugtman explores the challenges posed, especially by female returnees.

Bashar al-Assad’s reliance on Tehran might have at some point upset the balance of power between the Iran and Syria, but recent developments, most notably the US withdrawing from the nuclear deal, have emphasized the significance of the alliance for both countries.