Explainers

In Briefs

Succinct rundowns on the world’s most important developments, produced by CFR’s scholars and editorial team. 

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Western Sahara
What Does the Western Sahara Conflict Mean for Africa?
After a decades-long cease-fire crumbled in 2020, Morocco and the pro-independence Polisario Front have resumed fighting over the disputed Western Sahara.
Election 2024
How Does Immigration Affect the U.S. Economy?
Presidential candidates Harris and Trump differ sharply on the benefits of immigration for the U.S. economy. What role do immigrants play?
Immigration and Migration
Golden Passports and Visas: How Investment Migration Works
Programs that allow foreign investors to buy residency or citizenship in another country are growing in popularity, but some carry economic and security risks.
United States
The CHIPS Act: How U.S. Microchip Factories Could Reshape the Economy
The CHIPS and Science Act seeks to revitalize the U.S. semiconductor industry amid growing fears of a China-Taiwan conflict. Where is the money going, and how is the effort playing out?
Election 2024
Why Fracking Matters in the 2024 U.S. Election
The fracking boom has transformed the United States into the world’s leading producer of oil and gas. With presidential candidates Harris and Trump clashing on climate and energy policy, the practice is once again in the spotlight.
Indo-Pacific
Guam’s Strategic Importance in the Indo-Pacific
The island’s proximity to Asia makes it a critical outpost for the U.S. military and a potential hub in the event of regional conflict.
United States
Why Biden Wants to Block the Nippon-U.S. Steel Deal
U.S. President Joe Biden is reportedly planning to block the Japanese takeover of U.S. Steel, raising questions about the administration’s economic and foreign policy priorities.  
Georgia
What Georgia’s Foreign Agent Law Means for Its Democracy
Georgia’s new law reflects rising Russian influence in the country and has prompted backlash from the United States and the European Union, which fear it could harm the Caucasus state’s democratic development.
Afghanistan
How the Taliban’s Rule Is Fueling the Movement to End Gender Apartheid
The Taliban’s outright denial of women’s rights in Afghanistan has spurred a global push to combat gender-based oppression.
Sub-Saharan Africa
Africa and the Gulf Are Growing Closer. Will It Increase Global Tensions?
The Gulf states are angling for closer ties with African countries, and the feeling is mutual. But critics say differences over governance values, labor rights, and ongoing conflicts could stoke tensions.
Australia
Australia’s Growing Defense and Security Role in the Indo-Pacific
Australia’s first comprehensive national defense strategy comes as Chinese coercion around Taiwan and in the South China Sea sparks heightened concerns about Beijing’s intentions and ambitions in the region. 
Israel
Why Israel Wants to Draft the Ultra-Orthodox Into the Military
As Israel fights its war in the Gaza Strip, changes to a decades-old draft exemption for its fastest-growing demographic group threaten to fracture Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition and exacerbate the country’s internal rifts.
Health
Is Africa at a Turning Point for Malaria?
Two new malaria vaccines offer Africans the hope of finally eradicating a disease that has long plagued them disproportionately. Experts say vaccination is just one tool in a much broader fight.
Defense and Security
The Security Challenge at the 2024 Paris Olympics
French authorities are particularly vigilant of the terrorist threat to the games posed by Islamist extremists, a danger the country has endured for decades.
United Kingdom
UK Elections: What to Know
The United Kingdom appears poised for a political shift in response to deep economic concerns, but its foreign policy priorities are likely to remain consistent.