The Taliban have instituted a ban on narcotics in Afghanistan. While that has led to a massive drop in production, it is hitting the rural poor particularly hard. Foreign donors should work with the government to ensure the policy does not further undermine vulnerable populations.
Topic:
Poverty, Narcotics Trafficking, Law Enforcement, Taliban, Rural, and Opium
The economy is central in Sri Lanka’s presidential race, with many voters unhappy with austerity measures the incumbent has taken following International Monetary Fund recommendations. In the interest of stability, the winner should ensure that the belt tightening’s effects are more fairly distributed in society.
The new Taiwanese president has adopted a tougher stance on the island’s de facto autonomy from China. Beijing, in turn, has amped up its pressure on the island. To avoid a mounting escalation, Taipei should tone down its rhetoric and Beijing should curb its military intimidation.
Topic:
Conflict Prevention, Territorial Disputes, Military Affairs, Crisis Management, and Autonomy
Hydropower, sand mining and other development projects are threatening the ecological balance in the Mekong basin and the livelihoods of its residents. Policymakers would better serve the public by anticipating the problems of over-exploiting the river than by reacting to the consequences.
Topic:
Development, Environment, Livelihoods, and Hydropower
The world’s two most powerful countries – the U.S. and China – are increasingly at odds over several issues. The winner of November’s U.S. presidential election should strive to contain the tensions in this difficult relationship in service of stability in the wider world.
Topic:
Bilateral Relations, Elections, Donald Trump, and Rivalry
Political Geography:
China, Asia, North America, and United States of America
Many Bangladeshis describe the downfall of Sheikh Hasina as a “second liberation”, bespeaking the widespread desire for major change. But popular expectations are double-edged. With international support, the interim government should look to score some quick wins to keep the public on side.
Topic:
Governance, Reform, Domestic Politics, and Sheikh Hasina
Supporters of Imran Khan, Pakistan’s jailed ex-premier, took to the streets again in late November pressing the claim that February’s elections were stolen from his party. As the impasse goes on, the risk of violence is ever present. All sides should take a step back.
Topic:
Elections, Domestic Politics, Violence, and Civil Unrest
Since 2021, when Algeria cut ties with Morocco, the two neighbours have been at odds. Thus far, their quarrels have largely remained in the diplomatic realm. Western countries should help keep a lid on the disputes until the time is ripe for a rapprochement.
Topic:
Conflict Prevention, Diplomacy, Bilateral Relations, and Territorial Disputes
Political Geography:
Algeria, North Africa, Morocco, and Western Sahara
Few countries are more exposed to the ill effects of climate change than Somalia. Insecurity compounds the problem, with the Al-Shabaab insurgency exploiting drought conditions as a means of social control. Mogadishu needs help in dealing with the nexus of armed conflict and weather shocks.
Topic:
Climate Change, Insurgency, Al Shabaab, and Armed Conflict