Archive
Can Spain’s new government resolve the issue of Catalan independence?
Spain’s new Socialist-led government has adopted a more diplomatic approach to the question of Catalan independence, but is defiant that Spanish unity will not be compromised. How will this strategy balance out and affect the political landscape in Catalonia and across Spain?
Guest Post: Blood chocolate – climate change and conflict in the West African cocoa belt
Cocoa is a vital economic sector in West Africa, but climate change threatens to reduce the area suitable for its cultivation, bringing with it a risk for mass migration and civil violence.
The Week Ahead: 23-29 September
Crucial referendum in Macedonia. Fed likely to raise interest rates in US. All in The Week Ahead.
Challenges of Mexico’s drug legalisation
Mexican President-elect Obrador has declared his intention to combat drug cartels with a bold strategy – decriminalization of opium and marijuana. But while this policy may hurt the cartels, it
The curious case of Pakistan’s democracy
This article examines military influence in Pakistani democracy and highlights problems Imran Khan might face in implementing changes. The actions of the newly elected Prime Minister will have security and economic consequences at home and in the region.
Haider al-Abadi: From success to despair
Since 2014, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi of Iraq has had to deal with an unending series of problems including corruption, the war against the Islamic State (IS), and sectarianism. Following a poor performance in the May elections and the mass protests in Basra, will Abadi survive?
The Week Ahead: 16-22 September
Elections in the Maldives. Japan interest rates. Swiss food referendum. All in The Week Ahead.
What rising resource nationalism in Africa means for mining investors
Lately, resource nationalism in the African mining sector has increased. In some African states, which make key contributions to international mining, larger mining rents indicate greater national control.
Matteo Salvini and the risk of populism
Recent disputes between Italy’s interior minister and the EU are symptomatic of the failure of member states and the EU as an institution to live up to their ideals.
Czech diplomacy in Syria: A protecting power for the West?
At present the Czech Republic remains the only Member State of the European Union to maintain diplomatic relations with war-torn Syria. Consequently, the Czech mission in Syria frequently provides consular services for EU and US citizens in Syria and intermediary services for external actors.
