Latest Insights
Jordan: Economic impact of the Syrian war’s next stage
The Syrian Civil war is nearing its end game. This article, part two of a five-part series on the regional impact of this news, examines the current economic obstacles and opportunities for Jordan.
Bridging the Gap in Emerging Technology: “Overmatch”
Originating in the 2017 National Security Strategy, the United States is underway with its philosophy of “Overmatch” to bridge the gap in emerging technologies with Russia and China.
Kosovo: Creating a full army out of its security force
Last December, the Government of Kosovo declared that it is turning the Kosovo Security Force into a fully fledged army. This development greatly concerns Serbia, which still maintains that Albanian-dominated Kosovo is Serbian territory.
Brexit: Will Labour launch a vote of no confidence?
The previous two years have taught that anything can emerge from the mire of Brexit, but it does appear that a Labour motion of no confidence will be little more than a last ditch (and ultimately futile) effort to exert its influence over Brexit from the increasingly distant opposition benches. While Labour would be apt to measure the risks and advantages of a general election, it is far more likely that a no confidence bid will be counted by all observers as a symbolic show of discontent by an opposition which has had virtually no impact on the Brexit process to date.
Syria: Economic impact of the war’s next stage
The Syrian Civil war is nearing its end game. This article examines the current economic obstacles and opportunities for Syria and President Assad. It also considers the implications of President Trump’s decision to withdraw American troops from the ground.
The EastMed Pipeline Project in Perspective
The EastMed gas pipeline between Cyprus, Greece and Israel will revolutionise the economies and geo-politics of the region. The project comes from an emerging alliance between the three countries who must move forward cautiously in the face of neighbouring States’ opposition.
Myanmar is set to embrace Xi’s Belt and Road Initiative
After years of interrupted progression with Chinese-backed projects the Myanmar government has agreed to speed up progress. This signals that relations between China and Myanmar are good and that Myanmar is seeking for the foreign investments it needs to improve its economy.
The Ukraine conflict in 2019: Prospects for de-escalation look remote
It has been almost five years since the signing of the Minsk Agreements, which represent the only existing conduit for the gradual de-escalation of this conflict. Increasing ceasefire violations and obstruction of monitoring suggest that de-escalation remains unlikely.
Ramzan Kadyrov’s unchecked power in the Caucasus
Ramzan Kadyrov, leader of the Chechen Republic, has sparked controversy with his recent acts of aggression in neighbouring Republic of Ingushetia. Despite years of human rights abuses in Chechnya, Putin has remained virtually silent, effectively condoning these actions and bolstering Kadyrov’s regime.
US troops withdrawal from Syria and the threat of Islamic State
President Trump’s decision to withdraw troops from Syria has infuriated allies and strengthened adversaries on the ground. This has allowed Turkey to potentially eliminate a key Kurdish fighting force. This article assesses who stands to win and lose from this decision and the long-term impact for relations in the Middle East.
