Content Type: Special Report / Publication Year: within 10 Years

5201. La terre, entre guerre et paix: Politiques foncières et sortie de conflit en Colombie (Land, from War to Peace: Land Policies and Post-Conflict Situation in Colombia)

Author:: Jacobo Grajales
Publication Date:: 09-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches Internationales (CERI)
Abstract:: Four years after the negotiations started in Havana, 2016 marked the success of the peace talks between the Colombian government and the Farc rebels. Even if during the entire process the outcome was unclear, most political actors did not wait for the actual signature of the agreement to claim results. New public policies have been launched and in the rural and land sector the break with a violent past has been loudly dramatized. Changes conducted in the name of the consolidation of peace do however have more discreet effects. They cause an increased business of land, which risks producing exclusion and dissent in rural areas. Although it is undeniable that the post conflict agenda includes reparation policies for the victims and protection for small farmers, taking advantage of peace as an opportunity for economic development does also trigger interest for territories that are defined as new agrarian frontiers. And so, not only have the agro-industrial exploitation and the commodification of nature become legitimate, but they seem to be part of the social changes that are both made possible by peace, and desirable.
Topic:: Conflict Resolution, Corruption, Crime, Natural Resources, Political Science, and Emerging States
Political Geography:: Colombia and Latin America

5202. Guerre, reconstruction de l’Etat et invention de la tradition en Afghanistan (War, Reconstruction of the State and Invention of Tradition in Afghanistan)

Author:: Fariba Adelkhah
Publication Date:: 03-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches Internationales (CERI)
Abstract:: War since 1979 and the reconstruction of the state under Western tutelage since 2001 have led to a simplification of the identity of Afghan society, through an invention of ethnicity and tradition – a process behind which the control or the ownership of the political and economic resources of the country are at stake. Hazarajat is a remarkable observation site of this process. Its forced integration into the nascent Afghan state during the late nineteenth century has left a mark on its history. The people of Hazara, mainly Shi’ite, has been relegated to a subordinate position from which it got out of progressively, only by means of jihad against the Soviet occupation in the 1980s and the US intervention in 2001, at the ost of an ethnicization of its social and political consciousness. Ethnicity, however, is based on a less communitarian than unequal moral and political economy. Post-war aid to state-building has polarized social relations, while strengthening their ethnicization: donors and NGOs remain prisoners of a cultural, if not orientalist approach to the country that they thereby contribute to “traditionalize”, while development aid destabilizes the “traditional” society by accelerating its monetization and commodification.
Topic:: Conflict Resolution, Civil Society, Religion, War, History, Sociology, Peacekeeping, Identities, State, and Anthropology
Political Geography:: Afghanistan, Central Asia, Asia, and United States of America

5203. Regards sur l’Eurasie - L’année politique 2015

Author:: Anne De Tinguy, Bayram Balci, Isabelle Facon, Adrien Fauve, Thorniké Gordadze, Sergei Guriev, Raphaël Lefèvre, Gilles Lepesant, and Céline Marangé
Publication Date:: 02-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches Internationales (CERI)
Abstract:: "Looking into Eurasia" provides some keys to understand the events and phenomena that have left their imprint on a region that has undergone major mutation since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991: the post-soviet space. With a cross-cutting approach that is no way claims to be exhaustive, this study seeks to identify the key drivers, the regional dynamics and the underlying issues at stake.
Topic:: Demographics, Economics, Energy Policy, Migration, Nationalism, Political Economy, Sovereignty, Terrorism, Natural Resources, Europeanization, Political Science, Regional Integration, and State
Political Geography:: Russia, Central Asia, Caucasus, Middle East, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Georgia, Western Europe, and European Union

5204. Disappointed Hope: Judicial Handling of Post-Election Violence in Cote d’Ivoire

Author:: The International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ)
Publication Date:: 06-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ)
Abstract:: The political crisis that followed Cote d’Ivoire’s November 2010 presidential election was characterized by a wave of violence involving several parties that resulted in at least 3,000 deaths. Many of the acts of violence constituted war crimes and crimes against humanity. The crisis left a sharply divided country to face the enormous challenge of justice and reconciliation. This report offers analysis of the current situation regarding the judicial handling of cases related to the post-election violence in Cote d’Ivoire. It looks at existing legal and political challenges within the domestic proceedings and suggests possible solutions. Several mechanisms to investigate crimes committed during the violence and promote reconciliation were created during the peace process that followed. However, five years later, challenges include a lack of judicial independence and lack of mandatory legal representation for defendants, the need for legislative reform, and the functioning of the national judicial mechanism in charge of responding to serious crimes
Topic:: Elections, War Crimes, Criminal Justice, Violence, Judiciary, and Crimes Against Humanity
Political Geography:: Africa and Côte d'Ivoire

5205. When No One Calls It Rape: Addressing Sexual Violence Against Men and Boys

Author:: Amrita Kapur and Kelli Muddell
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ)
Abstract:: There is no doubt that the scope of the problem for male victims is large. The World Health Organization has identified sexual violence against men and boys as a significant problem that has been largely ignored by nongovernmental organizations, health care providers, government agencies, criminal justice authorities, and others. The violations can take many forms, including rape, gang rape, sexual slavery, enforced nudity, and being forced to perform sexual acts with others. Very commonly, sexual violence against men is committed in situations of detention. Studies have shown this pattern in contexts such as Chile, El Salvador, Libya, Sri Lanka, Syria, the United States, and the former Yugoslavia. Transitional justice mechanisms—including truth commissions, reparations programs, and criminal trials—are well placed to begin tackling some of these issues as part of efforts to address legacies of violence. Yet, although the problem has been addressed by some transitional justice efforts in certain countries, there is still wide variation and inconsistency in terms of the responses to these violations and attempts to involve male victims of sexual violence in these processes. The risk that male victims will remain invisible and left out of responses to sexual violence is significant, unless their rights and concerns are given a specific focus comparable to that now increasingly given to female victims. A number of factors contribute to the generally lackluster response by both state and nonstate actors involved in implementing transitional justice processes. One is the tendency to conflate sexual violence with violence against women and girls, which contributes to the perception that it is a women’s issue, thus limiting the responses available to victims falling outside of this group, including men and boys. This means that male victims’ experiences of sexual violence continue to be underreported, misunderstood, and mischaracterized in transitional justice processes. Another issue is under-reporting, which is particularly relevant for truth commissions as the statements they receive from victims not only inform their final reports, but also typically contribute to the creation of victim registries and the design of reparations programs, and even prosecutions. In many cases, male victims are reluctant to acknowledge the sexual nature of the violations committed against them. This can happen in order to avoid the social stigma attached to such acts or due to the fear of being perceived as weak, labeled homosexual, or being accused of having “wanted it.” Even in instances where men report acts of sexual violence, those receiving the reports rarely handle the report with the sensitivity and awareness they require. Medical practitioners, for example, may not be adequately trained to recognize, identify, or treat male victims or they may themselves accuse male victims of homosexuality or otherwise perpetuate social misconceptions about these crimes.
Topic:: Criminal Justice, Sexual Violence, Men, Reparations, Gender, Truth and Reconciliation, and Boys
Political Geography:: Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia, South America, North Africa, and North America

5206. Fragile States Index 2016 – Annual Report

Author:: J. J. Messner and Nate Haken
Publication Date:: 06-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Fund for Peace
Abstract:: The Fragile States Index, produced by The Fund for Peace, is a critical tool in highlighting not only the normal pressures that all states experience, but also in identifying when those pressures are pushing a state towards the brink of failure. By highlighting pertinent issues in weak and failing states, The Fragile States Index—and the social science framework and software application upon which it is built—makes political risk assessment and early warning of conflict accessible to policy-makers and the public at large.
Topic:: Democracy, Refugee Crisis, Fragile States, Political stability, and Conflict
Political Geography:: Europe, Middle East, and Global Focus

5207. Trans Legal Mapping Report: Recognition before the law (2016)

Author:: Zhan Chiam, Sandra Duffy, and Matilda González Gil
Publication Date:: 11-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: ILGA World (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association)
Abstract:: The Trans Legal Mapping Report is a research project by ILGA World, detailing the impact of laws and policies on trans persons across the globe. Its latest edition, released in September 2020, covers the legal situation in 143 UN member States: it highlights provisions which set out how trans and gender-diverse people can change their sex/gender marker and names on official identity documents (legal gender recognition), but also collects information on laws criminalising trans identities, both explicitly and de facto – looking at the situation for our communities in every region of the world. All too often, processes for gender marker and name change include requirements that are blatant human rights violations: this report outlines them clearly, but also shows progressive examples from across the world. Compiling information both through desk-based research and the lived realities of trans activists across the world, the ILGA World Trans Legal Mapping Report is a fundamental tool that advocates can use to engage with their national governments and bring about change.
Topic:: Government, Human Rights, Law, LGBT+, and Transgender
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5208. State-Sponsored Homophobia (2016)

Author:: Aengus Carroll
Publication Date:: 10-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: ILGA World (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association)
Abstract:: Every year, ILGA World publishes its State-Sponsored Homophobia report, a world survey of sexual orientation laws. Since its first edition, back in 2006, ILGA World’s State-Sponsored Homophobia has been a fundamental resource for those interested in accessing the core information on legislation affecting people on the basis of their sexual orientation. Not only human rights defenders, but also civil society organisations, governmental and United Nations agencies, allies and media worldwide value the publication as one of the main sources of information on the issue. The publication is accompanied by a series of maps and charts illustrating where criminalisation, protection and recognition laws exist.
Topic:: Human Rights, Law, LGBT+, and Homophobia
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5209. United Nations Treaty Bodies: References to sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics: Annual Report 2015

Author:: Helen Nolan
Publication Date:: 09-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: ILGA World (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association)
Abstract:: Every year ILGA World publishes its annual Treaty Bodies reports, a compilation and analysis of SOGIESC references made by UN Committees. This is a key tool for advocates to clearly identify what has been recommended to their State, and also to see how they can influence future recommendations to better-serve local needs. Since the first 2014 edition, the reports cover data on country-specific recommendations made, general comments issued and individual cases reviewed by UN Treaty Bodies. Each of the reports include both general analysis of trends and gaps, and information on specific Treaty Bodies, including references to (de)criminalisation and trans and intersex persons’ situations. The compilation also touches on the intersection of our movements with others, looking at sex work and HIV/AIDS references too.
Topic:: HIV/AIDS, Treaties and Agreements, United Nations, LGBT+, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Sex Work
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5210. Missile Defense: Challenges and Opportunities for the Trump Administration

Author:: Henry F. Cooper
Publication Date:: 11-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for Foreign Policy Analysis (IFPA)
Abstract:: This IFPA/Independent Working Group on Missile Defense white paper proposes the return to key elements of the Strategic Defensive Initiative (SDI) era, particularly to deploy space-based ballistic missile defense (BMD) systems, as part of an effective strategy to combat growing threats by rogue states or terrorists that have or may soon have the ability to conduct a high-altitude electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack
Topic:: Military Affairs
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5211. Making or Breaking Nonviolent Discipline in Civil Resistance Movements

Author:: Thomas Pinckney
Publication Date:: 10-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: International Center on Nonviolent Conflict (ICNC)
Abstract:: A central question in the study and practice of civil resistance is how nonviolent movements can maintain nonviolent discipline among their members. What factors encourage and sustain nonviolent discipline, particularly in the face of violent repression? While several scholars have suggested answers to these questions to date, the answers have largely remained ad hoc and have not been systematically tested. This monograph addresses these deficits in the literature by offering a unified theory of nonviolent discipline. This theory provides a helpful tool for better understanding how nonviolent discipline is created, sustained and shaped by repression. Following the theory, the monograph presents two tests of the effects of several influences on nonviolent discipline. The first is on the impact of patterns of repression, history of civil resistance, and campaign leadership and structure on nonviolent discipline.
Topic:: Human Rights
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5212. International Affairs

Author:: Len Hoffman
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: East View Information Services
Abstract:: Annual meeting of Russian federation ambassadors and permanent envoys
Topic:: International Relations and International Affairs
Political Geography:: Russia

5213. Russia-U.S. Relations After the Election: “We Will Be Ready for a New Start”

Author:: S Ryabkov
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: East View Information Services
Abstract:: Russia-U.S. Relations After the Election
Topic:: International Cooperation and International Affairs
Political Geography:: Russia and America

5214. Relations Between Russia and Europe: No Simple Solutions in Sight

Author:: S. Karaganov
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: East View Information Services
Abstract:: The Crisis between Russia and the West is associated with Crimea and Russia’s actions in Donbass and Ukraine; in fact, it has deeper roots while its long-term repercussions might prove to be much graver than expect- ed. a large-scale armed clash cannot be excluded even if this possibility is gradually reducing; we should be ready to political confrontation and contracted economic ties. Today, Europe is facing an even greater threat: a civilizational divorce with Russia.
Topic:: International Relations and International Affairs
Political Geography:: Russia and Europe

5215. International Affairs

Author:: East View Information Services
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: East View Information Services
Abstract:: World Issues
Topic:: International Affairs and International Development
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5216. An “Atomized Caliphate” in Europe

Author:: Armen Oganesyan
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: East View Information Services
Abstract:: A part of the western world, Europe, however, has been very selective about alien cultures and civilizations; not a “melting pot” american style, it is paying dearly for this function imposed on it. The disagreements on the migration issues in the european corridors of power threaten the cohesion of the european Unity. Frau Merkel who demon- strated a no mean determination to meet a new wave of migrants with maximal openness and tolerance had already accepted the failure of mul- ticulturalism. This means that Berlin has no answer to the question about how to cope with the migrants who have arrived in thousands and mil- lions to europe to stay.
Topic:: International Relations and International Affairs
Political Geography:: Europe

5217. Diplomatic Experience That Never Fades

Author:: A. Yakovenko
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: East View Information Services
Abstract:: multiplied by intuition is behind many discoveries. This fully applies to British historian Prof. Gabriel Gorodetsky* who has written numerous scholarly works including The Precarious Truce: Anglo-Soviet Relations, 1924-1927, Stafford Cripps’ Mission to Moscow, 1940-1942, etc. Prof. Gorodetsky came across the diaries of Ivan Maisky,** soviet ambassador to London while preparing official Soviet-Israeli documents for publication and was immediately interested. Before him few historians had paid attention to this unique historical document. in fact, Stalin never encouraged officials to keep diaries; this explains why they are few and far between in soviet archives.
Topic:: Diplomacy
Political Geography:: Russia

5218. Statement on the Democratic National Committee Hack

Author:: Aspen Institute
Publication Date:: 07-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Aspen Institute
Abstract:: The Aspen Institute Homeland Security Group’s statement on the Democratic National Committee Hack.
Topic:: International Affairs and Democracy
Political Geography:: America

5219. Terror in Europe: Safeguarding U.S. Citizens at Home and Abroad

Author:: Juan Zarate
Publication Date:: 04-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Aspen Institute
Abstract:: Juan Zarate gives testimony to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs in the wake of the Brussels attacks
Topic:: Terrorism and International Security
Political Geography:: America

5220. The Cyber Financial Wars on the Horizon

Author:: Juan Zarate
Publication Date:: 07-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Aspen Institute
Abstract:: Juan Zarate, with a foreword from Stewart Baker, looks forward to the future as cyberattacks and intrusions become increasingly common weapons in the ever-expanding toolkit of state and non-state actors.
Topic:: International Security and Cybersecurity
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5221. Outcome Report of Workshop on International Investment and the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Author:: Columbia Centre on Sustainable Investment
Publication Date:: 11-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment
Abstract:: On May 12, 2016, the United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples, Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, and the Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment hosted a one-day workshop on international investment and the rights of indigenous peoples. This outcome document synthesizes the discussions that took place during the May 12 workshop. The workshop was part of a series of consultations undertaken to support the Special Rapporteur’s second thematic analysis on the impact of international investment agreements on the rights of indigenous peoples (available here). Held at the Ford Foundation in New York, the workshop brought together 53 academics, practitioners, indigenous representatives, and civil society representatives to explore strategies for strengthening the rights and interests of indigenous peoples in the context of international investment. The workshop provided an opportunity for participants to share their diverse perspectives, experiences, and insights regarding the intersection of international investment and human rights, and to discuss creative and pragmatic approaches to short and long-term reform of both the investment and human rights regimes, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that indigenous rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled.
Topic:: International Relations, Human Rights, and Post Colonialism
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5222. Linkages to the Resource Sector: The Role of Companies, Governments, and International Development Cooperation

Author:: Columbia Centre on Sustainable Investment
Publication Date:: 07-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment
Abstract:: With support from GIZ, CCSI prepared a report titled “Linkages to the Resource Sector: The Role of Companies, Governments, and International Development Cooperation.” It outlines options for how these stakeholders can increase the economic linkages to the extractive industries sector not only in terms of ‘breadth’ (number of linkages) but also in terms of ‘depth’ (local value added). Apart from providing the theoretical framework for linkage creation and an overview of existing literature on this topic, the study highlights successful case study examples. Recommendations are provided for the three types of stakeholders.
Topic:: Government, International Political Economy, and Natural Resources
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5223. Land Deal Dilemmas: Grievances, Human Rights, and Investor Protections

Author:: Kaitlin Y. Cordes
Publication Date:: 03-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment
Abstract:: Land-based investments can create significant grievances for local individuals or communities, and host governments seeking to address those grievances must navigate a complicated landscape of legal obligations and pragmatic considerations. This report, funded by UK aid from the Department for International Development, focuses on practical solutions for governments confronting grievances that arise from large-scale investments in agricultural or forestry projects. The report considers such solutions in the context of governments’ legal obligations, particularly those imposed by international investment law, international human rights law, and investor-state contracts. Understanding the implications of this diverse range of legal obligations is particularly important in light of investors’ growing recourse to international investment arbitration, which can expose a government to liability under an international investment treaty for actions that may be in the best interest of a country and its citizens. Analyzing such obligations is a useful first step for a government seeking to protect its citizens against the negative impacts of land-based investments.
Topic:: International Development
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5224. Guide to Land Contracts: Agricultural Projects

Author:: Columbia Centre on Sustainable Investment
Publication Date:: 03-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment
Abstract:: Agricultural investment contracts can be complex, with complicated provisions that are difficult to understand. This Guide provides explanations for a range of common provisions, and includes a Glossary of legal and technical terms. It assists non-lawyers in better understanding agricultural investment contracts, such as those available on OpenLandContracts.org. The Guide was prepared by International Senior Lawyers Project staff and volunteers in collaboration with the Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment.
Topic:: Agriculture and International Affairs
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5225. V Informe sobre El estado de la Unión Europea 2016: La encrucijada política de Europa

Author:: Fundación Alternativas
Publication Date:: 06-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Fundación Alternativas
Abstract:: Informe en español. Versión pasapáginas aquí.
Topic:: International Relations and International Affairs
Political Geography:: Europe

5226. The state of the European Union 2016: Europe at the political crossroads

Author:: Fundación Alternativas
Publication Date:: 06-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Fundación Alternativas
Abstract:: The 4th Report on the State of the European Union –”Europe at the political crossroads”– is published as a contribution to a campaign to relaunch the EU, motivated by the belief that the serious problems with which the Union is currently grappling can only be resolved if we address the political challenges it faces. The publication of this report coincides with perhaps the most difficult moment for the Union since its creation. With the EU still struggling to overcome the drastic impact of the economic crisis, it is threatened by the storm clouds of another recession or, at the very least, weak growth.
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: Europe

5227. Informe sobre sostenibilidad en España 2016: hoja de ruta hacia un modelo sostenible

Author:: Ana Belén Sánchez
Publication Date:: 05-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Fundación Alternativas
Abstract:: Hace unos años propuse que entre los Informes que la Fundación Alternativas dedica a los grandes temas de nuestro país y de Europa –la Democracia, la Desigualdad, la Unión Europea, la Cultura– no podía faltar uno consagrado a la Sostenibilidad.
Topic:: International Relations and International Affairs
Political Geography:: Europe

5228. ISIS forecast: Ramadan

Author:: Jessica Lewis McFate and Harleen Gambhir
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for the Study of War
Abstract:: The next forty-five days constitute a high-risk period for a surge of attacks by ISIS during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. ISIS traditionally uses Ramadan – which begins on June 6 and ends on July 5, 2016 - as a justification for its attacks and as an occasion to reorient its strategy. This year, ISIS will likely take action to reverse serious losses in Iraq and Syria while expanding its attacks against the non-Muslim world in an attempt to spark an apocalyptic total war. ISIS is still operationally capable in its core terrain and stands poised to expand its operations over the next six weeks, particularly in Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan. This forecast will outline the most likely and most dangerous targets that ISIS may seek to operate against during Ramadan
Topic:: International Security
Political Geography:: Middle East

5229. Syrian Armed Opposition Powerbrokers

Author:: Jennifer Cafarella and Genevieve Casagrande
Publication Date:: 03-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for the Study of War
Abstract:: International negotiations to reach a political settlement in Syria have resumed, although serious challenges remain to reaching a political settlement. The talks follow two weeks of a “cessation of hostilities” in which the Russian air campaign in Syria decreased notably, though it did not entirely cease. Putin announced that he would withdraw some airframes from Syria on March 15, incentivizing both Assad and the opposition to engage in Geneva. Major opposition demands such as the removal of Syrian President Bashar al Assad from office have not been met, however, and Syrian regime officials have not conceded that there should be an immediate release of political prisoners. Reaching a political deal in Geneva under these conditions will therefore be difficult. The conditions in which the Geneva negotiations are taking place still strongly favor the regime, indicating that a transitional government, if formed, likely will fail to reconcile most Sunni armed actors with the government. The result could actually increase the jihadist threat while miring the U.S. and regional states in political turmoil in Damascus.
Topic:: International Security
Political Geography:: Syria

5230. Jabhat Al Nusra and ISIS: Sources of Strength

Author:: Harleen Gambhir, Katherine Zimmerman, and Jennifer Cafarella
Publication Date:: 02-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for the Study of War
Abstract:: The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) and the Critical Threats Project (CTP) at the American Enterprise Institute conducted an intensive multi-week planning exercise to frame, design, and evaluate potential courses of action that the United States could pursue to destroy the Islamic State in Iraq and al Sham (ISIS) and al Qaeda in Iraq and Syria. ISW and CTP are publishing the findings of this exercise in multiple reports in a series titled U.S Grand Strategy: Destroying ISIS and al Qaeda.
Topic:: International Relations, Civil War, and International Security
Political Geography:: Syria

5231. Al Qaeda and ISIS: Existential threats to the US and Europe

Author:: Frederick W. Kagan, Kimberly Kagan, Jennifer Cafarella, Harleen Gambhir, and Katherine Zimmerman
Publication Date:: 01-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for the Study of War
Abstract:: The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) and the Critical Threats Project (CTP) at the American Enterprise Institute conducted an intensive multi-week exercise to frame, design, and evaluate potential courses of action that the United States could pursue to defeat the threat from the Islamic State in Iraq and al Sham (ISIS) and al Qaeda in Iraq and Syria. The planning group weighed the national security interests of the United States, its partners, its rivals, and its enemies operating in or influencing the conflicts in Iraq and Syria. It considered how current policies and interests are interacting in this complex environment. It identified the minimum endstates that would satisfy American national security requirements as well as the likely outcomes of current policies. The group also assessed the threat posed by al Qaeda and ISIS to the United States, both in the immediate and long term, and tested the probable outcomes of several potential courses of action that the United States could pursue in Iraq and Syria.
Topic:: Intelligence and International Security
Political Geography:: Europe and Middle East

5232. 9th U.S.-China High-Level Political Party Leaders Dialogue

Author:: Natalie Pretzer-Lin
Publication Date:: 11-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: EastWest Institute
Abstract:: A delegation of senior officials from the Communist Party of China (CPC) met with U.S. Democratic and Republican Party leaders and global business leaders in Washington, D.C., on November 14, 2016. These discussions were part of the U.S.-China High-Level Political Party Leaders Dialogue organized by the EastWest Institute (EWI) in partnership with the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) and was the ninth round of this dialogue process.
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: China and America

5233. Victimized by Geopolitics

Author:: Wael Abdul-Shafi
Publication Date:: 10-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: EastWest Institute
Abstract:: The EastWest Institute and the Center for Applied Research in Partnership with the Orient (CARPO) held a two-day confidential dialogue meeting between participants from Iran and Saudi Arabia in Bonn on April 27-28, 2016. The two groups from Iran and Saudi Arabia were composed of former diplomats, senior analysts, and security and military experts. In addition, a group of distinguished experts from the European think tank community contributed with their input and analysis. Held under strict Chatham House Rule, the dialogue aimed at gaining insights on how Saudi Arabia and Iran view the ongoing crises in the Middle East and how they believe Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and Yemen can be stabilized and how the escalating refugee crisis can be contained.
Topic:: International Affairs and Refugee Crisis
Political Geography:: Iran and Saudi Arabia

5234. Afghanistan Reconnected: Cross-Border Cooperation at a Critical Juncture

Author:: Annie Cowan
Publication Date:: 09-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: EastWest Institute
Abstract:: In the lead-up to the Brussels Conference on Afghanistan, the EastWest Institute's Regional Security Initiative has released a major report, Afghanistan Reconnected: Cross-Border Cooperation at a Critical Juncture, which highlights problems in regional cooperation in the areas of trade and transit and energy, offering actionable recommendations that have been developed over three years of consultation with participants in the Afghanistan Reconnected Process, a high-level network including members of governments, the private sector, business leaders, and experts throughout the region. This report aims at encouraging government and private sector actors in the region, as well as the broader international community, to sustain momentum and commitment towards the development and stabilization of Afghanistan despite the declining security situation. The report includes an introduction by Ambassador Sabine Sparwasser, Chair of the International Contact Group on Afghanistan, Special Representative of the German Federal Government for Afghanistan and Pakistan, and chapters addressing various issues areas, prepared by project experts.
Topic:: International Security and International Affairs
Political Geography:: Afghanistan

5235. The path to normalisation between Israel and Turkey

Author:: Arad Nir
Publication Date:: 11-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Global Political Trends Center (GPoT)
Abstract:: Israel-Turkey policy dialogue publication series
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: Israel

5236. What To Do With the UK? EU perspectives on Brexit

Author:: Charles Wyplosz
Publication Date:: 10-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Slovak Foreign Policy Association
Abstract:: The negotiating table is almost set for Britain’s exit from the European Union. In recent months, the Brexit debate has been primarily focused on the UK’s future position within Europe. Little has been discussed about how this decision will affect the remaining 27 member states. With a preliminary date of March 2017 chosen to invoke Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, now is the time to begin formally discussing the challenges that both the UK and EU will face during negotiations.
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: Europe

5237. Slovakia: (Re)Discovering of the international crisis management

Author:: Samuel Goda
Publication Date:: 04-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Slovak Foreign Policy Association
Abstract:: The security environment in “wider Europe” has changed significantly in recent years. Depending on one’s preferences, a wide range of milestones may be named – the airstrikes in Yugoslavia, the 9/11 attacks, the Madrid attacks, the war in Afghanistan, the invasion of Iraq, etc. In this study, however, the main issue we are addressing is the Ukrainian crisis (or war), Ukraine being our direct neighbor and a country of special interest – and this being the issue, according to a wide range of experts, that has had the most impact on the region’s security in decades.
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: Europe

5238. Libya Extremism and the Consequences of Collapse

Author:: The Soufan Group
Publication Date:: 01-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Soufan Group
Abstract:: Following the failure to form a unity government in Libya, the country will continue to face monumental hurdles to stabilization. • Existing divides between the East and West of Libya have been exacerbated by the security situation in the country. • The absence of rule of law and the high levels of violence in Libya—when combined with the proliferation of weapons—have allowed violent extremist groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda to thrive.
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: Libya

5239. Lessons in Arctic Operations: The Canadian Army Experience, 1945-1956

Author:: P. Whitney Lackenbauer and Peter Kikkert
Publication Date:: 09-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Centre for Military, Security and Strategic Studies
Abstract:: The documents in this volume provide insights into the Canadian Army’s attempts to secure a better knowledge of the characteristics of Northern operations during the Second World War and early Cold War. An extensive series of Subarctic and Arctic training exercises yielded valuable “lessons learned” that informed the planning, training, and equipping of the Army for Northern missions. The challenges encountered in these operations, the questions raised, and the lessons observed remain remarkably consistent with those experienced during Arctic deployments over the last decade.
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: Canada

5240. Canada’s Northern Strategy under the Harper Conservatives: Key Speeches and Documents on Sovereignty, Security, and Governance, 2005-15

Author:: P. Whitney Lackenbauer and Ryan Dean
Publication Date:: 09-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Centre for Military, Security and Strategic Studies
Abstract:: The speeches and media releases collected in this volume help to reveal the narratives on Arctic sovereignty, security, circumpolar affairs, and governance that the Harper Government sought to construct during its near-decade in office. While the government touted its own achievements in regular updates on its Northern Strategy, other commentators have been more critical, suggesting that either the government’s priorities were misplaced or it promised more than it delivered. This volume is intended to preserve these primary resources for researchers to facilitate ongoing debate and discussion
Topic:: International Affairs and Domestic Politics
Political Geography:: Canada

5241. Annual Report 2016

Author:: Mesut Özcan
Publication Date:: 09-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Center for Strategic Research (CSR)
Abstract:: As the Acting Chairman of the Center for Strategic Research (SAM), I am pleased to present our 2016 Annual Report. SAM’s primary objective is to conduct research on foreign policy and related issues, develop alternative perspectives, provide new insights and make policy recommendations. SAM has risen to a significant peak in our Ministry’s policy making process, and has created more influence than what was ever expected. Each year, it continues to move beyond its accomplishments of the previous year. On this occasion, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to H.E. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, for his valuable support and to the SAM staff for their contributions.
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: Turkey

5242. Cross-Functional Teams in Defense Reform: Help or Hindrance?

Author:: Christopher J. Lamb
Publication Date:: 05-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University
Abstract:: There is strong bipartisan support for Section 941 of the Senate’s version of the National Defense Authorization Act for 2017, which requires the Pentagon to use cross-functional teams (CFTs). CFTs are a popular organizational construct with a reputation for delivering better and faster solutions for complex and rapidly evolving problems. The Department of Defense reaction to the bill has been strongly negative. Senior officials argue that Section 941 would “undermine the authority of the Secretary, add bureaucracy, and confuse lines of responsibility.” The Senate’s and Pentagon’s diametrically opposed positions on the value of CFTs can be partially reconciled with a better understanding of what CFTs are, how cross-functional groups have performed to date in the Pentagon, and their prerequisites for success. This paper argues there is strong evidence that CFTs could provide impressive benefits if the teams were conceived and employed correctly.
Topic:: International Affairs
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5243. Finanzas Municipales: Los casos de Caacupé y Emboscada

Author:: Raúl Monte Domecq
Publication Date:: 08-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Centro de Análisis y Difusión de la Economía Paraguaya (CADEP)
Abstract:: El Observatorio Fiscal y Presupuestario (OFIP) del CADEP presenta un beve estudio sobre la situación de las finanzas de gobiernos locales y sus grados de dependencia de las transferencias recibidas por la administración central de gobierno. En particular se aborda la situación en el Departamento de la Cordillera tomando como estudios de caso a los municipios de Caacupé y Emboscada. En particular, Este estudio propone un análisis de las transferencias financieras del gobierno central a los gobiernos subnacionales, tales como ROYALTIES, FONACIDE y otros conceptos, su evolución en los últimos trece años y su impacto en las finanzas municipales.
Topic:: Government, Budget, Fiscal Policy, Case Study, and Municipalities
Political Geography:: South America and Paraguay

5244. Agricultura Familiar: ODM y Gasto Público

Author:: Gerardo Benítez
Publication Date:: 09-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Centro de Análisis y Difusión de la Economía Paraguaya (CADEP)
Abstract:: La Agricultura Familiar en el Paraguay ya no cumple con su objetivo de satisfacer la demanda alimentaria del mercado interno. El Paraguay no ha alcanzado las metas propuestas dentro de los Objetivos del Milenio (ODM) para reducir la desnutrición crónica y la desnutrición de embarazadas. Los gastos públicos en apoyo de la Agricultura Familiar se han venido reduciendo en forma sostenida desde el 2012. Estas son tres de las conclusiones del trabajo de Gerardo Benítez sobre la situación de la Agricultura Familiar en el Paraguay y su relación con la seguridad alimentaria. En esta monografía se aborda primeramente la capacidad de la Agricultura Familiar Campesina en la generación de alimentos para la subsistencia y para la renta. En segundo lugar, se presentan los resultados de los ODM en materia de desnutrición para el Paraguay y su vinculación con la Agricultura Familiar. Finalmente se examinan los diversos programas públicos de apoyo a la Agricultura Familiar y la evolución de este apoyo en términos de gastos con relación al PIB y con los gastos totales de la administración pública.
Topic:: Agriculture, Development, Food Security, Farming, and Public Spending
Political Geography:: South America and Paraguay

5245. Monitoreo fiscal: Evolución de las cuentas públicas del 2003 al 2015

Author:: Julio Ramírez and Gerardo Benítez
Publication Date:: 03-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Centro de Análisis y Difusión de la Economía Paraguaya (CADEP)
Abstract:: La evolución de las cuentas públicas en el Paraguay en los últimos 12 años es objeto del último informe de Monitoreo Fiscal, una publicación del Observatorio Fiscal y Presupuestario (OFIP).En el mismo se analiza la estructura de los ingresos del Estado y su comportamiento de acuerdo a los diferentes tipos de tributos e ingresos no tributarios. También se aborda el tema de los gastos públicos, con énfasis en los gastos sociales. Finalmente se describen los resultados fiscales en todo el período considerado.
Topic:: Budget, Fiscal Policy, Public Spending, and Monitoring
Political Geography:: South America and Paraguay

5246. Monitoring and Assessing the Integrity and Internal Governance in the Ministry of Kosovo Security Force and the Kosovo Police

Author:: Skender Perteshi and Plator Avdiu
Publication Date:: 05-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:: Results of the Kosovo Security Barometer for five consecutive years have listed the Kosovo Police and the Kosovo Security Force as the most trusted institutions by Kosovar citizens. However, there is still much to be done in terms of these institutions achieving excellence. Despite the fact that the legal framework ensuring the integrity of security institutions is solid and continues to improve, findings indicate that further administrative capacity and mechanisms to ensure the sound implementation of this framework and the sound functioning of institutional integrity. Being the latter sector still below the desired standard and therefore affecting the performance of these institutions, risking a decline in citizens’ trust for the Kosovo Police and the Ministry of Kosovo Security Force, which is currently at its peak.
Topic:: Security, Governance, Institutions, and Police
Political Geography:: Eastern Europe and Kosovo

5247. The Citizens' Views Against Violent Extremism and Radicalization in Kosovo

Author:: Vesë Kelmendi
Publication Date:: 06-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:: This special edition of bKS is aimed at a wide range of stakeholders interested to follow citizens’ perceptions of violent extremism and radicalization in Kosovo. Specifically, it addresses an audience that is interested to follow the trends of public opinion in Kosovo with special emphasis on Kosova citizens’ trust in and contact with religious institutions in Kosovo; threats and risks arising from the terrorist formations such as ISIS and al-Nusra; perception of the rehabilitation of returnees from Syria and Iraq as well as perceptions of the Kosovar government’s strategy to deal with this phenomenon. In general, bKS is aimed at the state level policy makers, international actors in Kosova, as well as local organizations, religious communities, civil society, academia and media.
Topic:: Public Opinion, Violent Extremism, Radicalization, and Rehabilitation
Political Geography:: Iraq, Eastern Europe, Kosovo, and Syria

5248. "The Gordian Knot: Kosovo's obstacles towards membership into international security organisations"

Author:: Leonard Aliu and Plator Avdiu
Publication Date:: 11-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:: The efforts of the Kosovo institutions in view of the country’s membership into regional and international security organisations, with particular emphasis on the International Criminal Police Organisation - INTERPOL has brought into surface the fact that they have not been successful so far. Almost since the declaration of independence (17 February 2008) the commitment of the Kosovo institutions remained more in the limits of political statements rather than concrete actions to join regional and international security organisations. Kosovo’s relevant institutions did not demonstrate the political determination to establish official relations and direct contact with INTERPOL, whilst unmik mission remains as a bridge.
Topic:: Regional Cooperation, International Security, Institutions, and Interpol
Political Geography:: Eastern Europe and Kosovo

5249. State of play of Kosovo’s international legal cooperation

Author:: Bardha Maxhuni
Publication Date:: 11-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:: In the globalizing world that we are living, international legal cooperation in criminal matters is an inevitable and necessary instrument in order to prevent and combat transnational crime, which poses serious problems for national security and justice system. Crime affects each one of us, and fighting it must be a shared goal for all countries despite their political differences and relations between each other. In the current circumstances, the process of extradition, mutual legal assistance, transfer of criminal proceedings, execution of foreign sentences, recognition of foreign criminal judgments, confiscation of the proceeds from crime, collection and exchange of information, between intelligence and law enforcement services, is an imminent need in the fight against criminality.
Topic:: Crime, International Cooperation, National Security, and Law
Political Geography:: Eastern Europe and Kosovo

5250. Kosovo Security Barometer - Sixth Edition

Author:: Mentor Vrajolli
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:: The Kosovo Security Barometer (KSB) is a specific programme of Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS) designed to serve as an annual publication. The primary focus of the KSB is to measure the public opinion perceptions towards security and justice institutions. It also measures the public perception on the internal and external security threats to Kosovo. The KSB marks one of the largest and rather first initiatives designed, implemented, and communicated by a local think tank in Kosovo. KCSS has no political constraints in communicating the findings and messages. Finally, the KSB is unique for its methodological approach, such as the unique tailoring of the quantitative and qualitative methods aiming to offer realistic results on public perceptions towards security-related issues.
Topic:: Security, Public Opinion, and Survey
Political Geography:: Eastern Europe and Kosovo

5251. 2016-2017 Guide to Women Leaders in International Affairs

Author:: Women's Foreign Policy Group (WFPG)
Publication Date:: 08-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Women's Foreign Policy Group (WFPG)
Abstract:: WFPG's Guide to Women Leaders in International Affairs highlights women shaping foreign policy around the world and the role that they play as leaders, diplomats, and policymakers. The Guide provides an index of prominent women from across the international community, including heads of state and government, government ministers and diplomats, and leaders of international organizations and corporations.
Topic:: Foreign Policy, Government, United Nations, Women, Leadership, and NGOs
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5252. Progressive Prudes: A survey of attitudes towards homosexuality & gender non-conformity in South Africa

Author:: Pierre Brouard, Melanie Judge, Mogopodi Lekonwe, Zethu Matabeni, Thabo Msibi, Xhanti Payi, Vasu Reddy, Finn Reygan, Ben Roberts, Carla Sutherland, and Niel Victor
Publication Date:: 12-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Other Foundation
Abstract:: There is a general belief that people in Africa are deeply homophobic and unaccepting of gender diversities, but what does the African public really think? The truth is that we haven’t really known because hardly any work has been done to gather and analyze the views of the public in a structured way in Africa. Now, the results of a ground-breaking survey of what all South Africans think about homosexuality and gender non-conformity – and how they behave, based on that – is available. For the first time, there is scientifically valid, nationally representative data to inform social dialogue and advocacy, public policies, and academic debate. The results confirm some common-sense realities which are often denied by those who oppose equality and social acceptance of gay and lesbian people – but which have not been tested in research on this scale up to now. The results also reveal some surprising new findings.
Topic:: Public Opinion, Discrimination, LGBT+, and Survey
Political Geography:: Africa and South Africa

5253. Kurdistan: An Invisible Nation

Author:: Stefano Maria Torelli
Publication Date:: 06-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)
Abstract:: Spread across Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran, Kurdistan is one of the hottest geopolitical areas in the Middle East. It is a land inhabited by over 30 million people, representing one of the largest stateless "nations" worldwide. The Kurds play a crucial role in the region, and the so-called "Kurdish factor" has constantly been a key ingredient of recent Middle East crises: from the wars in Iraq under Saddam Hussein to the fight against the so-called Islamic State. Not to mention the strategic relevance that Kurdistan assumes as one of the oil-richest areas in the region. What new balances would an eventual victory of Kurds over IS create? What are the long-term goals of the Kurdish community? How to reach a solution to the Kurdish question able to satisfy all the actors involved? Can we envisage a common future for the Kurds or will they remain tied to the political destinies of the countries they live in? These are just some of the questions that this report tries to answer collecting contributions from leading international experts.
Topic:: Minorities, Geopolitics, Islamic State, and Stateless Population
Political Geography:: Iraq, Iran, Turkey, Middle East, Syria, and Kurdistan

5254. China Dream: Still Coming True?

Author:: Alessia Amighini
Publication Date:: 07-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)
Abstract:: At a time when the economic transition in China is casting shadows on the weak world recovery, and the country is further increasing military spending at double-digit rates, it is key to assess how far President Xi has gone in fulfilling the “China Dream” of ascendance to cultural, economic and military power. Even more important is to try to figure out what the substance of the “China Dream” is likely to be in the near future. The current risk is that the Chinese people and the Chinese government are dreaming different dreams, and that Xi’s “China Dream” might be more a dream for the country and much less so for the people. China has recently reached a series of symbolic milestones: the Yuan’s inclusion in the IMF’s SDR basket; the new China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); the market economy status by a number of countries. The 2016 Chinese G20 Presidency will provide a timely occasion for China to better define its role in global economic governance. However, progress on reforms is lagging behind expectations and international tensions are on the rise. This volume explores the viability of the China Dream and analyzes its major challenges.
Topic:: Governance, Economy, Xi Jinping, Military, and Regional Politics
Political Geography:: China and Asia

5255. Jihadist Hotbeds. Understanding Local Radicalization Processes

Author:: Arturo Varvelli
Publication Date:: 07-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)
Abstract:: Recent analyses reveal that the vast majority of jihadists come from or have some connections with specific areas or districts within different states. One can describe them as local/regional “hotbeds” of extremism. Molenbeek in Belgium, Gornje Maoče and Ošve in Bosnia-Hercegovina, Minneapolis in the US, Kasserine and Ben Guerdane in Tunisia, Sirte and Derna in Libya, Sinai in Egypt, Pankisi Valley and Dagestan in the Caucasus: each area has unique characteristics that lead to “exporting” fighters or creating new IS-controlled zones. Starting from the debate on the origin and nature of jihadist militancy that is dividing the most important scholars of Islam, this report outlines a broad spectrum of radicalization factors leading to the emergence of jihadists hotbeds, such as poverty, unemployment, lack of job prospects, juvenile delinquency, trafficking and smuggling, socio-political, economic and physical marginalization, the role of Salafist ideology as well as the influence of brotherhood networks. All these elements have been frequently highlighted as factors or triggers that could contribute to explaining dynamics of radicalization leading to active violent militancy under the ideals of jihadism. To get a better sense of both the differences and similarities amongst the various hotbeds, the report provides an overview of some of the largest contributors to Islamic extremists and foreign fighters in Syria and Iraq.
Topic:: Violent Extremism, Radicalization, Jihad, and Foreign Fighters
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5256. Putin's Russia: Really Back?

Author:: Aldo Ferrari
Publication Date:: 07-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)
Abstract:: Attempts by Washington and Brussels to push Russia to the fringes of global politics because of the Ukrainian crisis seem to have failed. Thanks to its important role in mediating the Iranian nuclear agreement, and to its unexpected military intervention in Syria, Moscow proved once again to be a key player in international politics. However, Russia’s recovered assertiveness may represents a challenge to the uncertain leadership of the West. This report aims to gauging Russia’s current role in the light of recent developments on the international stage. The overall Russian foreign policy strategy is examined by taking into account its most important issues: Ukraine and the relationship with the West; the Middle East (intervention in Syria, and ongoing relations with Turkey, Iran and Saudi Arabia); the development of the Eurasian Economic Union; the Russian pivot towards Asia, and China in particular. The volume also analyzes if and to what extent Moscow can fulfill its ambitions in a context of falling oil prices and international sanctions.
Topic:: Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Leadership, and Vladimir Putin
Political Geography:: Russia, Eurasia, Ukraine, and Syria

5257. Europe: No Migrant's Land?

Author:: Maurizio Ambrosini
Publication Date:: 08-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)
Abstract:: The Mediterranean region has always been marked by intense migration flows. Over the last few years, political instability in Middle East and North Africa countries, coupled with longstanding demographic and economic trends, have caused a sudden upsurge of migrants reaching Europe’s shores. Despite scattered shows of solidarity, however, the European response has proven slow and fragmented. This volume offers a complete and encompassing analysis of the current state of play in terms of migration flows across the Mediterranean and policy responses by European transit and receiving countries. Attention is specifically devoted to ongoing debates about the management of mixed migration, the peculiar profile and needs of asylum seekers, migrants’ labour market access, and integration policies in Europe.
Topic:: Demographics, Migration, Refugees, Economy, Asylum, and Integration
Political Geography:: Europe

5258. Populism on the rise. Democracies under challenge?

Author:: Alberto Martinelli
Publication Date:: 10-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)
Abstract:: Donald Trump’s Republican presidential nomination and the Brexit have shocked and somehow caught by surprise the entire world. A growing sense of concern or even alarm is now spreading across Western countries and is putting traditional democratic processes to the test. In particular, when looking at the political landscape in Europe, populism may turn out to be an unprecedented game-changer. Populists parties came to power in Poland and Hungary, they are in coalition governments in Switzerland and Finland, top the polls in France and the Netherlands, and their support is at record highs in Sweden. Not to mention the recent rise of Alternative für Deutschland in Germany and the successful story of Syriza, Podemos and of the FSM in Southern Europe. The Report explores the rise of populism in Europe and the US by analyzing its root causes, the rationale behind its success, its impact on traditional political parties and, more broadly, on Western democracies. It also draws some policy recommendations to tackle this widespread challenge.
Topic:: Politics, Democracy, and Populism
Political Geography:: Europe and United States of America

5259. South Africa. The Need for Change

Author:: Giovanni Carbone
Publication Date:: 10-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)
Abstract:: Has the new South Africa – once an inspiring “rainbow nation” – failed the expectations it had generated? Is the country now in a crisis? Two decades after the end of the apartheid regime, Africa’s southernmost state faces multiple political, economic and social challenges. A lackluster growth performance is compounded by mounting corruption and political turbulence, as well as by the frustration of many ordinary citizens who expected much more rapid social and economic improvement. Labour strikes, student protests and anti-immigrant riots have all been on the rise. As a clear sign of increasing dissatisfaction, uncertainty and decline, the ruling African National Congress recently ran into its worst electoral result ever – if still only at local levels. Meanwhile, Jacob Zuma’s embattled presidency, marred by allegations of corruption and political cronyism, sent South Africa’s international image plummeting alongside the Rand, the national currency. This volume sheds light on the current difficulties and discusses future prospects. The “new” South Africa is a country in dire need for change.
Topic:: Corruption, Elections, Economic Growth, and Domestic Politics
Political Geography:: South Africa and Africa

5260. Assessing Haiti’s Electoral Legitimacy Crisis – Results of a 2016 Survey

Author:: Athena R. Kolbe and Robert Muggah
Publication Date:: 02-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Igarapé Institute
Abstract:: This Strategic Note presents the results of a national survey of 1,766 Haitian adults conducted between January 17 and 22, 2016. Respondents were asked about their participation in voting, barriers to participating in the voting process, their choice for president, and their opinions about a variety of possible solutions to Haiti’s electoral impasse. It finds that there is widespread pessimism about the direction the country. It also detects that voter turn-out in October 2015 was likely considerably less than officially reported. However, the survey shows that most Haitians would vote if they were confident that elections were free and fair. The most important issues that Haitians believe the next president should tackle are jobs and the economy, followed by corruption, regaining trust, and education.
Topic:: Corruption, Politics, Elections, Legitimacy, and Survey
Political Geography:: Caribbean and Haiti

5261. A Path Forged Over Time

Author:: Eduarda Passarelli Hamann
Publication Date:: 06-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Igarapé Institute
Abstract:: This Strategic Note identifies key thematic features of Brazil’s long history of United Nations operations, from the first one, in 1947, through present-day operations around the world. An examination of the country’s experience in peacekeeping yields some important lessons – both for Brazil and for the future of peacekeeping and UN operations as a whole. Given today’s geopolitical climate, identifying appropriate norms and standards in peacekeeping efforts is more important than ever in order to ensure sound decision-making on the ground.
Topic:: United Nations, Peacekeeping, Geopolitics, and Decision-Making
Political Geography:: Brazil and South America

5262. 2016 Report Card on Nuclear Disarmament, Nonproliferation Efforts

Author:: Elizabeth Philipp and Kelsey Davenport
Publication Date:: 07-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Arms Control Association
Abstract:: The report, "Assessing Progress on Nuclear Nonproliferation and Disarmament, 2013-2016," is the third in a series that measures the performance of 11 key states in 10 universally-recognized nonproliferation, disarmament, and nuclear security categories over the past three years. The study evaluated the records of China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States, India, Israel, Pakistan, and North Korea—each of which possess nuclear weapons—as well as Iran and Syria, which are states of proliferation concern.
Topic:: Security, Arms Control and Proliferation, Nuclear Weapons, and Disarmament
Political Geography:: Pakistan, Russia, China, United Kingdom, Iran, India, Israel, North Korea, France, Syria, and United States of America

5263. Kosovo Security Barometer Special Edition: Citizens’ Perceptions on Police Integrity in Kosovo

Author:: Plator Avdiu
Publication Date:: 02-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:: More precisely, it targets an audience which is interested in following the public opinion trends in Kosovo, focusing on the public trust in the Kosovo Police (KP) and the Police Inspectorate of Kosovo (PIK), the Kosovo citizens’ frequency of contacts with the Police and its units, perception on the police corruption, as well as the public safety. Generally, the KSB targets nation-wide policy makers; the international community presence in Kosovo; local, regional and international civil society organizations; academics community and the media.
Topic:: Security, Corruption, Public Opinion, Institutions, and Police
Political Geography:: Europe, Kosovo, and Balkans

5264. Kosovo Security Barometer Special Edition: Public Safety in Kosovo: Trends of Citizens’ Perceptions on Public Safety in Kosovo Covering period: 2012 – 2015

Author:: Sofije Kryeziu
Publication Date:: 05-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS)
Abstract:: It also measures the public perceptions on the internal and external security threats to Kosovo. The KSB is one of the largest and rather first initiatives designed, implemented, and communicated by a local think tank in Kosovo. KCSS has no political constraints in communicating the findings and messages. Lastly, the KSb is unique for its methodological approach, such as the unique tailoring of the quantitative and qualitative methods which aim to offer realistic results on public perceptions towards security related issues. This Special Edition targets a wide variety of actors interested in the public opinion trends in Kosovo in the field of public safety. It targets policy makers in Kosovo as well as the Western Balkans; the international organizations in Kosovo and their headquarters; local and international civil society organizations; academia and the media.
Topic:: Security, Public Opinion, and Public Safety
Political Geography:: Europe, Kosovo, and Balkans

5265. Integrating Violence Prevention and Women’s Economic Empowerment: Lessons from Mexico

Author:: Peace and Security (GIWPS) Georgetown Institute for Women
Publication Date:: 01-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (GIWPS)
Abstract:: In the past two decades, female labor force participation has doubled in Mexico within the context of decreasing rates of violence against women. The World Bank, the World Health Organization, the Inter-American Development Bank, and other international actors have recognized that increasing female economic participation is one of the interventions needed to address violence against women in Latin America. However, there has been limited research conducted on the ways in which non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are already working to integrate violence prevention and economic empowerment, and the challenges they face in their work. The lack of knowledge of best practices and gaps on these issues impedes the government and organizations from replicating and scaling programs that work in tackling violence against women. The need for effective, evidence- based programming is critical, considering that violence against women affects almost half of Mexican women: 46.6% stated in 2011 that they had faced at least one form of violence.1 This gap in knowledge prompted the following research into current programs in Mexico that address women’s economic participation and/or violence against women. Several themes emerged from the semi-structured interviews with 16 key informants from NGOs working on these issues in Mexico. All the leaders recognized the need to integrate women’s economic empowerment and violence prevention. However, many organizations find it difficult to include violence prevention and/or economic empowerment in their programming due to sensitivity around violence against women, lack of resources, capacity, and expertise, and a lack of data that makes it challenging to make the business case for integration. Some organizations do not include violence prevention or economic empowerment in their theories of change, which causes these issues to be neglected even further. Finally, few organizations seem to be working on the issue of economic violence, due to the lack of media and policy attention it generates, and the lack of perceived urgency around the issue as compared to other forms of violence against women, such as trafficking, which receives more funding. Partnerships between violence prevention organizations and economic empowerment organizations are one solution to this issue, but they are rare due to NGOs’ lack of funding in this area and the non-profit world’s limited history with partnerships. Another constraining factor is NGOs’ small peer networks: they lack the network to expand or advocate for their work, especially with corporations. This report provides recommendations for organizations in Mexico working on violence prevention and/or women’s economic empowerment. Funders should direct more resources toward partnership building, capacity building, and data collection and research, and the prevention of economic violence. Organizations should review their theories of change, and see how violence prevention and/or economic empowerment can be incorporated into programs to strengthen effectiveness. They should consider increasing male participation in programming where possible, and take into account the different forms of violence, especially economic violence, when addressing violence in their programs.
Topic:: Economics, Labor Issues, Women, Empowerment, and Violence Prevention
Political Geography:: North America and Mexico

5266. Women’s Political and Economic Participation in Post-Conflict Kosovo: Learning to Work with Both Hands

Author:: Nerea Cal and Rukmani Bhatia
Publication Date:: 01-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (GIWPS)
Abstract:: Post-conflict Kosovo offers a complex and interesting context to examine the role women play in post-conflict development. Though women were not heavily involved in the formal peace negotiations that ended the hostilities in Kosovo, they played key roles in civil society before the war and actively sought ways to participate in the reconstruction efforts. At the grassroots level, and in unofficial channels, women worked towards peace and stability in their communities. Post-conflict Kosovo presents a useful case to examine the theory that women’s empowerment – in economic, political, and social spheres – leads to a more sustainable and prosperous peace. The international community affirmed this belief by providing security, financing, and expertise to build institutions that advanced women’s rights after the war, while Kosovar women demonstrated the ability and willingness to contribute meaningfully to their country’s reconstruction.
Topic:: Civil Society, Development, Economics, Reconstruction, Women, Participation, and Post-Conflict
Political Geography:: Eastern Europe and Kosovo

5267. Global Peace Operations Review 2015: Annual Compilation

Author:: Jim Della-Giacoma, Richard Gowan, Alischa Kugel, Jean Arnault, W.P.S. Sidhu (ed), and Alexandra Novosseloff
Publication Date:: 01-2016
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Global Peace Operations Review
Abstract:: The Review covers more than one hundred multilateral peace operations active in the previous year including missions fielded by the UN, AU, EU, ECOWAS, OSCE, OAS and coalitions. It uses a broad definition of peace operations that includes multilateral and ad hoc military and police missions, as well as civilian led political missions. Neither type of mission has a simple definition. Alongside more straightforward peacekeeping missions, the Review, mindful of the need for peace operations to adjust to the changing nature of conflict, also includes peace enforcement operations that employ the use of force and engage in active combat. Under political missions, we include multilateral civilian-led missions that have political engagement in the form of launching and supporting political processes at their core. This includes, for example, the EU’s Special Representatives and the African Union Liaison Offices that support the implementation of peace agreements and accompany political processes. We have excluded missions, such as EU delegations and other liaison offices that may engage in political activities, but as their core function serve more as regular diplomatic or developmental presences. Along the same reasoning, we have also excluded election observer and human rights monitoring missions.
Topic:: Security, International Cooperation, Politics, United Nations, Peacekeeping, Women, Multilateralism, Peacebuilding, and Gender
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5268. Mokhtar Belmokhtar: One-Eyed Firebrand of North Africa and the Sahel (Jihadi Bios Project)

Author:: Andrew Wojtanik
Publication Date:: 03-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Combating Terrorism Center at West Point
Abstract:: The CTC is pleased to launch the publication of papers as part of a series devoted to the study of jihadist biographies. The purpose of this project is to contribute to the knowledge of the evolution of the jihadist landscape by exploring it through the lens of the worldviews and experiences of actors who have shaped it. While some states and organizations, wittingly or unwittingly, contributed to the growth of the jihadist enterprise, it may be argued that modern jihadism, as it continues to unfold, is also the product of individuals, who made it into the global phenomenon that it is. As we study the biographies of jihadis, we are faced with a world crowded with different and differing worldviews. Beneath the banner of jihad that seemingly unites jihadis worldwide is a world marked not just by cooperation between groups and individuals, but also by competition and divisions. Some of the jihadis who occupy that world are characterized by a commitment to idealistic goals, by acumen, skills, and agility; others are driven by sectarianism, criminal disposition, and opportunism; while others manifest an odd combination of all. That is why the actions emanating from the jihadist landscape are the results of an amalgam of strategy, sophisticated planning and targeting, randomness, and juvenile enthusiasm. It is for these reasons and more that the complexity of the jihadist landscape requires different layers of analyses and a rigorous and patient approach to the subject. In short, the study of jihadism is about both the “forest” and the “trees;” and this series of biographies is a study of the “trees” as they are situated in the broader “forest.”
Topic:: Terrorism, Non State Actors, Al Qaeda, and Jihad
Political Geography:: Afghanistan, Africa, South Asia, Central Asia, Algeria, Mali, and Niger

5269. Islamic Groups’ Social Service Provision and Attitudinal Change in Egypt

Author:: Steven Brooke
Publication Date:: 06-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Combating Terrorism Center at West Point
Abstract:: Islamic organizations’ educational, medical, financial and charitable services benefit millions of Egyptians each year. Scholars and policymakers alike argue that, in the process of meeting Egyptians’ basic needs, this social-service provision Islamizes the population, acclimates them to the use of religiously justified violence, and aggravates sectarian attitudes. Yet authors rarely provide concrete data concerning these facilities, their history, the scope of the services provided, and the audiences they serve. Further, the attitudinal change supposedly under way is neither clearly observed nor easily measured. These twin deficits have limited the progress of research on an area of growing scholarly and practitioner interest. This paper improves on both of these areas. It uses a variety of primary and secondary sources to sketch the history and organizational capacity of three Islamic organizations’ social-service networks: those of the Muslim Brotherhood, al-Gam’iyya al-Shar’iyya, and Ansar al-Sunna al-Mohammediyya. It also reports the results of an original survey experiment of over 3,700 Egyptians, testing how exposure to information about these organizations’ service provision shapes individual attitudes on religiosity, violence, and sectarianism. While in many cases these primes fail to produce statistically significant shifts, results in both the religion battery and that regarding violence are notable. First, exposure to information about the Muslim Brotherhood’s social-service provision produces a significant and conservative shift in personal and social dimensions of religion. However, receiving information about the Brotherhood’s social-service provision makes respondents less likely to support a political role for religion. Second, receiving information about al-Gam’iyya al-Shar’iyya’s service provision shifts an individual’s propensity to tolerate violence in retribution for perceived provocations from non-Muslims.
Topic:: Terrorism, Islamism, and Muslim Brotherhood
Political Geography:: North Africa and Egypt

5270. Held Hostage: Analyses of Kidnapping Across Time and Among Jihadist Organizations

Author:: Daniel Milton and Seth Loertscher
Publication Date:: 12-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Combating Terrorism Center at West Point
Abstract:: In March 2013, David Haines and Frederico Motka were kidnapped while traveling together near the Turkish border in Syria. The men were both foreigners and aid workers. They were held in the same prison by the same militant group. Yet they suffered sharply different fates. In May 2014, Motka was released, while four months later, Haines became the fourth Westerner to be beheaded by the Islamic State. Press accounts noted that the major difference between the men was their nationality: Motka was Italian; Haines was British. In the summer of 2014, the Islamic State began its campaign of public executions of kidnapped Westerners. Though these barbaric acts captured the world’s attention, hostage taking is not new. Nevertheless, research designed to increase understanding of this threat is limited. Most discussions regarding kidnappings rely on anecdotal evidence, and a more detailed analysis of key questions regarding the role of group type, nationality of the victim, and outcome as they relate to kidnapping incidents has been lacking for want of publicly available data. In an effort to address this, the CTC presents “Held Hostage: Analyses of Kidnapping Across Time and Among Jihadist Organizations,” which examines trends related to the kidnapping of Westerners by jihadist groups based on data from a newly gathered open-source dataset of the kidnapping of Westerners from 2001–2015. The CTC has also publicly released the data along with this report (click here to access the database). We believe that the report and accompanying data will be an important resource for policymakers, practitioners, and academics interested in this area.
Topic:: Al Qaeda, Islamic State, Boko Haram, Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Haqqani Network, and Kidnapping
Political Geography:: Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, Syria, and Somalia

5271. The Rationale of Political Assassinations

Author:: Arie Perliger
Publication Date:: 02-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Combating Terrorism Center at West Point
Abstract:: The current study aims to improve our understanding of the causes and implications of political assassinations by employing quantitative analyses on a comprehensive data set. The findings illustrate the trends that characterize the phenomenon and challenge some of the existing conventions about political assassinations and their impact. This study puts forth the rationale that the logic of political assassinations is different from that of other manifestations of political violence. Hence, it is important to understand the unique factors that may encourage or discourage violent groups or individuals from engaging in political assassinations. Moreover, it seems reasonable to assume that these factors vary among different types of assassinations, because in most cases the characteristics of the targeted individual shape the nature and objectives of the assassination. Indeed, this study establishes that different processes trigger different types of assassinations, and that different types of assassinations generate distinct effects on the political and social arenas.
Topic:: Terrorism, Weapons, and Assassination
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5272. Abu al-Layth al-Libi

Author:: Kevin Jackson
Publication Date:: 03-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Combating Terrorism Center at West Point
Abstract:: This report on Abu al-Layth al-Libi, authored by Kévin Jackson, was released as part of the CTC’s Jihadi Bios Project, a series edited by Dr. Nelly Lahoud. The Jihadi Bios Project The CTC is pleased to launch the publication of papers as part of a series devoted to the study of jihadist biographies. The purpose of this project is to contribute to the knowledge of the evolution of the jihadist landscape by exploring it through the lens of the worldviews and experiences of actors who have shaped it. While some states and organizations, wittingly or unwittingly, contributed to the growth of the jihadist enterprise, it may be argued that modern jihadism, as it continues to unfold, is also the product of individuals, who made it into the global phenomenon that it is. As we study the biographies of jihadis, we are faced with a world crowded with different and differing worldviews. Beneath the banner of jihad that seemingly unites jihadis worldwide is a world marked not just by cooperation between groups and individuals, but also by competition and divisions. Some of the jihadis who occupy that world are characterized by a commitment to idealistic goals, by acumen, skills, and agility; others are driven by sectarianism, criminal disposition, and opportunism; while others manifest an odd combination of all. That is why the actions emanating from the jihadist landscape are the results of an amalgam of strategy, sophisticated planning and targeting, randomness, and juvenile enthusiasm. It is for these reasons and more that the complexity of the jihadist landscape requires different layers of analyses and a rigorous and patient approach to the subject. In short, the study of jihadism is about both the “forest” and the “trees;” and this series of biographies is a study of the “trees” as they are situated in the broader “forest.”
Topic:: Terrorism, Al Qaeda, and Leadership
Political Geography:: Pakistan, Afghanistan, Africa, South Asia, and Libya

5273. Khattab (Jihadi Bios Project)

Author:: Muhammad Al-'Ubaydi
Publication Date:: 03-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: The Combating Terrorism Center at West Point
Abstract:: This report on Khattab, authored by Muhammad al-`Ubaydi, was released as part of the CTC’s Jihadi Bios Project, a series edited by Dr. Nelly Lahoud. The Jihadi Bios Project The CTC is pleased to launch the publication of papers as part of a series devoted to the study of jihadist biographies. The purpose of this project is to contribute to the knowledge of the evolution of the jihadist landscape by exploring it through the lens of the worldviews and experiences of actors who have shaped it. While some states and organizations, wittingly or unwittingly, contributed to the growth of the jihadist enterprise, it may be argued that modern jihadism, as it continues to unfold, is also the product of individuals, who made it into the global phenomenon that it is. As we study the biographies of jihadis, we are faced with a world crowded with different and differing worldviews. Beneath the banner of jihad that seemingly unites jihadis worldwide is a world marked not just by cooperation between groups and individuals, but also by competition and divisions. Some of the jihadis who occupy that world are characterized by a commitment to idealistic goals, by acumen, skills, and agility; others are driven by sectarianism, criminal disposition, and opportunism; while others manifest an odd combination of all. That is why the actions emanating from the jihadist landscape are the results of an amalgam of strategy, sophisticated planning and targeting, randomness, and juvenile enthusiasm. It is for these reasons and more that the complexity of the jihadist landscape requires different layers of analyses and a rigorous and patient approach to the subject. In short, the study of jihadism is about both the “forest” and the “trees;” and this series of biographies is a study of the “trees” as they are situated in the broader “forest.”
Topic:: Terrorism, History, and Jihad
Political Geography:: Russia, Europe, Middle East, and Saudi Arabia

5274. International Experience of and Policy Suggestions on Innovation and Entrepreneurship Oriented Incubators

Author:: Pangoal Institution
Publication Date:: 05-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Pangoal Institution
Abstract:: In the 2015 government work report, Premier Li Keqiang has mentioned twice the concept of “mass entrepreneurship and innovation”. He stresses that along with greater supplies of public goods and services, these will become the twin engines to drive the development and upgrade of China’s economy. At the same time, innovation is a critical impetus to revolutionize traditional industries and build new economic engine. Innovation and entrepreneurship oriented incubator, as an important carrier of new innovation service platform that meets the need to establish maker space in the network age, has attracted more and more public attention. Since its birth in the late 1950s, innovation and entrepreneurship oriented incubator has been a strong impetus to the economic prosperity of different countries and regions in the world and also plays a prominent role in nurturing small and medium enterprises and creating jobs. As the birthplace of the incubator, the United States has established a relatively mature incubator industry operation mechanism after experiencing the four stages of initial creation, multi-functional development, high-speed growth and innovative transformation. The US has become the global leader in the field of Innovation and entrepreneurship oriented incubator with its innovative incubator model featuring “business accelerator” and “virtual incubator”. Despite its later start than the US in this field, Germany has formed its own shareholding incubator model centered on interest chain and incubator model linked by intermediary service agency as well as international expansion model featuring overseas incubator, which shows a tendency to surpass the US. In France, many incubator models such as the ones funded by the government, the ones comprehensively and the ones established by enterprises have gained fairly good results. Israel, which used to be a small developing country with a low population and poor resource, has now became a developed country with its high-tech industries significantly promoted by incubator.
Topic:: Development, Entrepreneurship, Economy, and Innovation
Political Geography:: China and Asia

5275. The Negative Impact of Drug Control on Public Health: the global crisis of avoidable pain

Author:: Global Commission On Drug Policy
Publication Date:: 10-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Global Commission On Drug Policy
Abstract:: Ninety-two percent of the world’s supply of morphine is consumed by just 17 percent of the global population, with consumption primarily concentrated in the global north and 75 percent of the world’s population does not have access to any pain relieving drugs. The reasons for this have little to do with issues of cost or scarcity of supplies- and everything to do with with the prohibition and repressive stand the world has taken on drugs. This Global Commission report explores the current crisis related to the lack of access to controlled medicines and makes concrete policy recommendations to Member States and UN agencies on ways to improve these conditions. This report is available in English, Spanish, Russian, French and Arabic.
Topic:: Health, War on Drugs, Drugs, Public Health, and Medicine
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5276. Countering Foreign Terrorist Fighter (FTF) Recruitment Workshop: Counter-Messaging and the Role of Disillusioned Former Fighters

Author:: Hedayah
Publication Date:: 01-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Hedayah
Abstract:: Foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) returning to their home countries from the conflict stimulated by the self-proclaimed “Islamic State” or ad-Dawlah al-Islamiyah fil-Iraq wa asSham (DA’ESH) abroad, are a growing concern for many countries—particularly those in the international counter-DA’ESH coalition. Past conferences and workshops have focused on issues related to FTF rehabilitation and reintegration back into society, but the need for effective counter-narrative communication strategies to prevent the spread of violent extremism and terrorism is now more relevant than ever. The use of interviews, testimonials, and statements of once-inspired FTFs, who now denounce the actions of DA’ESH and other terrorist groups, can be potentially powerful in countering DA’ESH recruitment. This three-day countering violent extremism (CVE) workshop—hosted by Hedayah, the Abu Dhabi-based international CVE center of excellence—convened government and nongovernment CVE practitioners to share communication approaches relevant to countering FTF radicalization and recruitment into DA’ESH, with a particular focus on the role of disillusioned FTFs in creating counter narratives/ messages. Over the course of the three days, participants were asked to apply knowledge gained from the panel sessions to create and develop the content and structure of an alternative or counter-narrative/message that involves actual case studies of individuals who have traveled to join DA’ESH.
Topic:: Terrorism, Recruitment, Foreign Fighters, and Political Extremism
Political Geography:: Middle East and Global Focus

5277. Beyond the crisis in Ukraine. Russian and EU perceptions of European security and potential implications for Europe and Norway

Author:: Pernille Rieker and Kristian Lundby Gjerde
Publication Date:: 11-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Norwegian Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:: Recent developments in European security have shown the growing need for a better understanding of the dynamics that may both threaten and ensure security and stability on the European continent. This policy brief is based on the analysis made in a recent NUPI working paper (Rieker & Gjerde 2015) where we present in more detail the differing Russian and European perceptions of European security. In addition to providing an overview of the different perceptions, we also study what happens when the two collide like we have been witnessing in Ukraine. As much of the literature on these issues has been normatively driven, our aim has been to provide an objective presentation and analysis of the dominant Russian and EU discourses. This we see as essential for investigating the potential for constructive dialogue between Russia and the EU.
Topic:: Conflict Resolution, United Nations, and Peacekeeping
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5278. Executive Summary Effective Criminal Defence in Latin America

Author:: Alberto Binder, Ed Cape, and Zaza Namoradze
Publication Date:: 10-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Dejusticia
Abstract:: This document contains the results of a research project, Effective Criminal Defence in Latin America, which was conducted over a two and a half year period commencing in the summer of 2012. It discusses the main issues concerning criminal defence rights for each jurisdiction in the study; (ii) in light of these findings, recommendations designed to improve access to effective criminal defence in practice for each jurisdiction; and (iii) recommendations for the development of international standards on effective criminal defence for the Latin American region.
Topic:: International Law, Criminal Justice, Justice, Criminology, and Legal Sector
Political Geography:: Latin America

5279. Drugs and the Death Penalty

Author:: Patrick Gallahue
Publication Date:: 10-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Open Society Foundations
Abstract:: There are currently thousands of people on death row for drug-related offenses in Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. The international drug control system must share the blame, as treaties promoting strict and severe punishments for drug offenses have opened the door to such responses. UN human rights and drug control bodies now recognize that the death penalty for drugs violates international law, but a number of states that are parties to drug control treaties argue that capital drug laws are a permissible sanction. While many countries around the world are abolishing the death penalty for all crimes at an unprecedented rate, other countries such as Iran and Saudi Arabia are increasingly prescribing the death penalty for drug-related crimes despite evidence showing that it has not been effective in curbing the flow of drugs across territories. While there no fixed model for the kinds of people who have suffered the death penalty for drugs, all too often those who become smugglers borders represent people in desperate circumstances who have been coerced or tricked into breaking the law. Sometimes they are mere teenagers. Executing those who are referred to as “little fish” is disproportionate to the crime. And as both international human rights and drug control bodies have made clear, it is a violation of human rights law. Drugs and The Death Penalty explores how the laws that subject drug offenders to capital punishment are inextricably linked to the international war on drugs and provides recommendations for governments to review current policies and explore alternate, less draconian sanctions.
Topic:: Crime, International Law, War on Drugs, Criminal Justice, Drugs, Public Health, and Death Penalty
Political Geography:: Africa, Middle East, and Asia

5280. The League of Arab States: Human Rights Standards and Mechanisms

Publication Date:: 11-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Open Society Foundations
Abstract:: With the Arab region in a state of flux, the League of Arab States seems poised to play a much-needed role on issues such as peace, security, and human rights in Arab countries. Until now, this role has been far from consistent or guided by a genuine human rights agenda. However, a closer look at the Arab League during the recent crises in the region reveals a slow shift in its positioning, highlighting the importance for civil society to engage with the Arab League and influence policies and reform in the region. Interest in the work of the Arab League is not new to civil society in the region. Civil society organizations have, for example, engaged very closely with the process of revising the Arab Charter on Human Rights. They have also worked with the League on the Darfur and Syria crises. However, this engagement has been fragmented, and at times not driven by a clear strategy. Therefore, this engagement and its impact can be strengthened through effective strategies and mechanisms. It is, therefore, paramount that the Arab League reform its relationship with civil society, and at the same time for civil society to improve its own relationship with the Arab League. The ultimate goal is better protection of human rights in Arab countries. This manual has been produced with these challenges and opportunities in mind. It aims at providing information to activists in the civil society movement, especially those working in the human rights field, on the structures, standards, and mechanisms of the Arab League relating to human rights. Better understanding of these issues can only contribute to better engagement with the Arab League, and therefore the ability to influence and reform the organization.
Topic:: Civil Society, Democratization, Human Rights, Authoritarianism, Reform, Arab Spring, State Violence, Revolution, and Arab League
Political Geography:: Middle East and North Africa

5281. Community, Not Confinement

Publication Date:: 10-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Open Society Foundations
Abstract:: The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) affirms the rights of all people to live in their communities. Yet between 2007 and 2013, EU member states invested millions of euros of EU structural funds into institutions that confine and segregate people living with disabilities. Now, although the 2014–2020 round of structural funds requires member states to introduce domestic deinstitutionalization measues, the danger remains that EU investments in institutions will continue. The European Commission has a responsibility to ensure the rights of Europeans with disabilities and the proper direction of EU investments. Community, Not Confinement examines EU law and policy governing the use of structural funds, and EU and state responsibilities to human rights obligations under international and EU law. This report also recommends several steps the commission should take, including providing clear guidance to member states that projects selected for the use of structural funds must comply with the CRPD; verifying that such programming aligns with the CRPD and supports independent living; and funding civil society to monitor member states’ investments and inform the commission of findings.
Topic:: Human Rights, International Law, United Nations, Law, Disability, Community, Political Rights, and Legal Sector
Political Geography:: Europe

5282. Global Report: Civil Society Organization (CSO) Survey for the Global Study on Women, Peace and Security CSO Perspectives on UNSCR 1325 Implementation 15 Years after Adoption

Author:: Danielle B. Goldberg
Publication Date:: 12-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP)
Abstract:: When the idea of the Global Study on UNSCR 1325 was proposed, some members of civil society did not welcome the concept. There were already countless studies and recommendations on the implementation of UNSCR 1325, so what would be the value of another study? Moreover, we knew where most of the gaps existed—both internationally and in national contexts. The Global Study was, called by UN Security Council Resolution 2122 “to highlight examples of good practice, implementation gaps and challenges, and priorities for action.” Yet, we also understood that the Global Study could be an important platform for highlighting persistent problems, such as underrepresentation of women in official peace negotiations, lack of local level action and the perennial lack of funding, particularly for women’s peacebuilding work at the community level. To participate in the Global Study process, we set two conditions: that it be totally independent and that it accurately reflect the voices of civil society, given that activists—working at grassroots, national and international levels—have been the driving forces in making sure the resolution and its agenda remain active and relevant. It was in this spirit that the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP), Cordaid, the International Civil society Action Network (ICAN) and the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security (NGOWG) embarked on a civil society survey to inform the Global Study. We also believed it was extremely important that there be a mechanism built into the Global Study to formally capture the experiences, challenges and recommendations of civil society around the world working on WPS.
Topic:: Security, Gender Issues, United Nations, Women, Peace, WPS, and Civil Society Organizations
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5283. Focus Group Discussion Report for the Civil Society Organization (CSO) Survey: Civil Society Input

Author:: Agnieszka Fal
Publication Date:: 05-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP)
Abstract:: The Focus Group Discussion (FGD) Report is based on findings from 17 FGDs and one international 1325 expert conference, held in 16 countries with over 200 participants.1 The report informs the Global Study on Women, Peace and Security, called by UNSCR 2122 to "highlight examples of good practice, implementation gaps and challenges, and priorities for action," to ensure that civil society voices are adequately reflected in the study. The promise of UNSCR 1325 cannot be realized without the full participation of civil society activists—a view shared at the global and local level alike. Just as the Global Study team coordinated by UN Women has explicitly sought input from women’s groups around the world through this initiative and others, so have participants of the FGDs echoed their fervent desire to have their views, concerns and recommendations feed into the Global Study. Civil society lobbied for the adoption of UNSCR 1325, contributed to its drafting and has stood at the forefront of its implementation, so its voice is a powerful contribution to the Global Study. This report consolidates and presents the results of the FGDs. The FGDs also raised awareness among CSOs around the world of the High-Level Review on the Implementation of UNSCR 1325, the Global Study and the CSO Survey. Furthermore, they provided a safe and collaborative experience for CSOs to exchange views on issues related to their work on Women, Peace and Security. Finally, the focus group discussions served as a tool to recognize and galvanize women’s groups doing important work on women, peace and security on the ground, despite the many challenges they face.
Topic:: Security, Gender Issues, United Nations, Women, Peace, WPS, and Civil Society Organizations
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5284. A Democracy Assembly to Face the New Authoritarian Challenges

Author:: Ladan Boroumand
Publication Date:: 12-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Center for the Opening and Development of Latin America (CADAL)
Abstract:: Sixteen years after the first World Movement Assembly, the situation has dramatically changed. We no longer have the strong wind of triumphant democracy in our sails. Instead, we are facing a reinvigorated wind of authoritarianism that defies us not only in practice but also ideologically and tests our understanding of our own values, our consistency, and our commitment. During the last wave of democratization, civil society emerged as a recognized and legitimate actor on the international stage. If as civil society actors we are being silenced and made irrelevant in our countries, with the help of democratic governments and the global human-rights community we can use the virtual and international stage to reemerge as strong, relevant actors and impose ourselves as our governments’ interlocutors.
Topic:: Civil Society, Human Rights, Authoritarianism, and Democracy
Political Geography:: Latin America and Global Focus

5285. Türkiye’nin Ortadoğu Politikası | Turkey’s Middle East Policy 2015

Author:: Kemal İnat, Muhittin Ataman, and Açılım Kitap
Publication Date:: 12-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Sakarya University (SAU)
Abstract:: 2015 yılında Türkiye’nin Ortadoğu politikasında yaşanan gelişmelerin ele alındığı bu yazıda, Türkiye’nin özellikle kendisini çok yakından ilgilendiren Ortadoğu sorunları konusundaki yaklaşımı analiz edilmiştir. Bu çerçevede Suriye ve Irak sorunları konusunda Türkiye’nin politikası açısından önem arz eden gelişmeler incelenmiş ve bu gelişmelerin Türkiye’nin İran gibi bölge ülkeleriyle ilişkilerine etkisi analiz edilmiştir. Aynı şekilde söz konusu sorunların Türkiye’nin ABD, Rusya ve Avrupa Birliği gibi küresel güçlerle ilişkileri açısından ne tür etkilerde bulunduğu da ele alınmıştır. Son olarak Türkiye ile Ortadoğu ülkeleri arasındaki ekonomik ilişkiler de makale çerçevesinde incelenmiştir. | In this paper, which analyzes the Turkish foreign policy initiatives regarding the Middle East in 2015, the focus particularly lies on events that are of great importance for Turkey. In this framework Ankara’s policies towards the Iraq and Syria problems are examined and also its effects on Turkey’s relationship to regional states like Iran are matter of analysis. Also the question of how these problems influence Turkey’s affairs with international actors like the USA, Russia and the European Union, is tried to be answered. Finally, the study explores economic ties between Turkey and the Middle East countries.
Topic:: Foreign Policy and Economics
Political Geography:: Iraq, Iran, Turkey, and Syria

5286. Avrupa Birliği’nin Filistin Politikası | European Union’s Palestine Policy

Author:: Fatma Zehra Toçoğlu
Publication Date:: 12-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Sakarya University (SAU)
Abstract:: Bu çalışmada Avrupa Birliği’nin Ortadoğu’ya olan ilgisi ve bu bağlamda Filistin-İsrail meselesine yaklaşımı incelenmektedir. Avrupa Birliği’nin kuruluşuna kısaca değinildikten sonra dış politika konusunda yapmış olduğu çalışmalar ele alınacaktır. AB’nin genişleme sürecinden sonra komşuları ile güçlü ilişkiler kurmak için oluşturduğu Avrupa Komşuluk Politikası birimi ile sınırları dışındaki bölgelere olan ilgisi artmış, Filistinİsrail çatışmasında ortak bir dış politika belirleme çabasında olmuştur. AB kendisi için siyasi, stratejik ve ekonomik nedenlerden dolayı daima önemli bir bölge olarak gördüğü Ortadoğu ve özelde Filistin konusunda özel politikalar geliştirmiştir. Son zamanlarda Avrupa Birliği üye ülkeleri Filistin’i devlet olarak tanımayı gündemlerine aldı. Bu çerçevede makalede Avrupa Birliği’nin Filistin politikasının ekonomik ve siyasi yaklaşımları ortaya konulacaktır. | In this article, the question of how the EU is established and what kind of studies the EU undertook concerning foreign policy so far, is briefly discussed. The interest of the European Union in the Middle East is examined regarding the approach of the Palestinian - Israeli conflict. After the enlargement process, the EU has increased its interest in areas outside the borders of the EU Neighborhood Policy in order to build strong relationships with its neighbors and made efforts to define a common policy for the Palestine-Israel conflict. The EU developed particular policies for the Palestinian issue and the Middle East that are sprung from political, strategic and economic reasons. Recently, some EU member states put the recognition of the state of Palestine on their agenda. In this context, the EU’s approach toward the historical process of Palestine and the Palestinian issue is explored in this article.
Topic:: Foreign Policy, Diplomacy, European Union, and Conflict
Political Geography:: Europe, Turkey, Middle East, Israel, and Palestine

5287. Türk Dış Politikasında İslamcı-Kemalist Hesaplaşma: Erbakan Dönemi Libya Örneği | Islamist-Kemalist Reckoning in Turkish Foreign Policy: Libyan Case in the Erbakan Era

Author:: Talip Küçükcan
Publication Date:: 12-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Sakarya University (SAU)
Abstract:: Campbell’ın ‘”çifte dışlama” (double exclusion) kavramsallaştırmasından yola çıkarak, dış politikanın içeride işlerlikte olan iktidar ilişkilerinin bir uzantısı olduğunu savunan bu çalışma, Erbakan dönemi iktidar ilişkilerine odaklanarak bu dönemin dış politikasını incelemektedir. Bu noktada Refah Partisi’nin Kemalizm’in sacayakları olan laiklik, ulus-devlet ve Batıcılık ilkelerini yerinden edici söylem ve pratikleri incelenecek ve bu dönem dış politikasının Kemalist yerleşiklerin iç siyasetteki tutunma alanları üzerindeki iç politik mücadelenin bir parçası olduğu gösterilmeye çalışılacaktır. Bu anlamda bilhassa Refah Parti iktidarının ilk aylarını fazlasıyla meşgul eden Libya konusu analiz edilecek ve konunun söz konusu iki blok arasındaki mücadelede hangi söylem ve pratikler çerçevesinde nasıl bir temsile oturtulduğuna bakılacaktır. | With reference to Campbell’s ‘double exclusion’ conceptualization, considering foreign policy as a continuation of domestic power struggle, this paper focuses on Turkish foreign policy while particularly taking into account the domestic power struggle in Erbakan’s first period. At this point, the paper analyzes the Welfare Party’s discourses and practices which are adverse to Kemalism’s trivet -secularism, nationstate and Westernism- and tries to show that foreign policy in this period is a part of a domestic struggle. In this sense, especially the Libya case which had exceedingly occupied the first months of the Welfare Party rule, is analyzed. A part of this analysis is also the question of how this issue is represented while taking a deeper look at the discourses and practices within the mentioned two blocks.
Topic:: Foreign Policy, Islamism, Welfare, Political Parties, and Identity
Political Geography:: Turkey, Middle East, and Libya

5288. Future Directions in the DPRK’S Nuclear Weapons Program: Three Scenarios for 2020

Author:: David Albright
Publication Date:: 02-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for Science and International Security
Abstract:: Like many secret nuclear weapons programs, the DPRK goes to great lengths to hide its capabilities to produce nuclear explosive materials and nuclear weapons. Despite these actions, a picture can be drawn of North Korea’s current and projected plutonium and weapons-grade uranium (WGU) stocks. Knowing these plutonium and WGU stocks can, in turn, allow an estimate of the DPRK’s current number of nuclear weapons and a range of projections of the number North Korea could build in the next several years. Although great uncertainty surrounds these projections, as well as the quality of North Korea’s nuclear weapons, these projections form a reasonable picture of the DPRK’s possible nuclear weapons futures, absent actions to significantly limit its nuclear programs. After summarizing estimates of stocks of separated plutonium and weapons-grade uranium as of the end of 2014, this report develops three projections of future nuclear arsenals through 2020: low-end, medium, and high-end nuclear futures. In developing these projections, which are intended to bound North Korea’s nuclear futures, a number of constraints are considered, including the number and size of nuclear production facilities, future underground testing, the extent and success of nuclear weaponization efforts, costs, and access to necessary goods and classified and proprietary technologies abroad.
Topic:: Arms Control and Proliferation, Nuclear Weapons, and Science and Technology
Political Geography:: Asia and North Korea

5289. Civil HEU Watch Tracking: Inventories of Civil Highly Enriched Uranium: National and Global Stocks, as of End 2014

Author:: David Albright and Serena Kelleher-Vergantini
Publication Date:: 10-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for Science and International Security
Abstract:: Highly enriched uranium (HEU) is a key ingredient in nuclear weapons, making it one of the most dangerous materials in existence. As a result, governments take extraordinary measures to secure HEU against theft or diversion and to reduce the inventories of HEU in the world. To that end, it is important to track how much civil HEU exists and where it is. However, national civil HEU stocks are difficult to estimate, with transparency policies varying by country and few countries providing official declarations of their stocks. As a result, this report contains the few official civil HEU declarations and estimates civil HEU stocks in countries that do not provide public declarations. This study relies on open source information to derive these estimates. It is an update of a report published in 2005.
Topic:: Nuclear Weapons, Nuclear Power, and Uranium
Political Geography:: Global Focus

5290. Military Highly Enriched Uranium and Plutonium Stocks in Acknowledged Nuclear Weapon States

Author:: David Albright and Serena Kelleher-Vergantini
Publication Date:: 11-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for Science and International Security
Abstract:: Plutonium and highly enriched uranium (HEU), called “fissile materials,” were first produced in large quantities for use in nuclear weapons. Starting in World War II, and for over two decades afterwards, almost all the plutonium and HEU in the world was produced for these immensely destructive weapons. This production was centered almost exclusively in five states: Britain, China, France, Russia, and the United States. In the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) these five countries are designated as “nuclearweapon states” because all five had manufactured and exploded a nuclear weapon prior to January 1, 1967. To this day, they remain the only acknowledged nuclear weapon states. Although other countries possess nuclear weapons, the acknowledged states have gained a special status in international affairs. As part of that status, however, these five states also committed to work towards nuclear disarmament, in particular steps accompanied by the elimination of their own stocks of fissile material for nuclear weapons. At the end of 2014, these five states had military stocks totaling about 238 tonnes of plutonium and 1,330 tonnes of HEU, mostly weapon-grade uranium (WGU is defined as HEU enriched over 90 percent). Table 1 provides a summary of the results. Tables 2 and 3, located at the end of the report, provide official declarations or detailed estimates of each country’s military plutonium and HEU holdings. These tables provide extensive endnotes describing official declarations, other sources, and the derivation of the various estimates. In addition to aggregate totals, tables 2 and 3 provide partial information about the various types of military stocks held by these five countries, including fissile material dedicated to nuclear weapons activities and naval propulsion programs, and declared excess to defense requirements.
Topic:: Nuclear Weapons, Uranium, and Plutonium
Political Geography:: Britain, Russia, China, France, and United States of America

5291. Highly Enriched Uranium Inventories in South Africa

Author:: David Albright
Publication Date:: 11-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for Science and International Security
Abstract:: South Africa produced highly enriched uranium (HEU) for nuclear weapons at the Y plant at the Pelindaba nuclear center located near Pretoria. This plant, which operated from 1977 until early 1990, was designed to make weapon-grade uranium. However, it experienced operational problems that led to the production of less than expected amounts of weapon-grade uranium and a considerable amount of HEU enriched less than 90 percent. In late 1989, then-President F.W. de Klerk ordered an end to the nuclear weapons program, including the shutdown of the Y Plant, and decided to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Following the dismantlement of its nuclear weapons, South Africa brought the NPT into force in 1991, subjecting its entire inventory of HEU to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. As part of the IAEA’s effort to verify South Africa’s initial nuclear material declaration, it conducted an unprecedented investigation aimed at determining that South Africa had declared its HEU inventory completely. After a two year investigation into both the production and use of HEU, the IAEA concluded in September 1993 that South Africa had satisfactorily declared its HEU.
Topic:: Arms Control and Proliferation, Nuclear Weapons, Treaties and Agreements, and Uranium
Political Geography:: Africa and South Africa

5292. Israel’s Military Plutonium Inventory

Author:: David Albright
Publication Date:: 11-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for Science and International Security
Abstract:: Israel developed its first nuclear weapon shortly before the 1967 Six Day War, making it the sixth nation to develop nuclear weapons.2 To this day, Israel maintains an ambiguous posture about its nuclear weapons, despite the declassification of formerly secret U.S. government documents which assert the existence of Israeli nuclear weapons. In addition, the revelations of Mordechai Vanunu in 1986 revealed a larger nuclear weapons program than commonly assessed at that time.3 The heart of Israel’s nuclear weapons production complex is the Dimona site near the city of Beersheva. This site contains a number of secret nuclear facilities for the production of plutonium, including a heavy water reactor, a fuel fabrication plant, and a plutonium separation plant, all provided by France in the 1950s and early 1960s. The site also reportedly contains facilities likely involved in tritium extraction and purification (using tritium also produced in the reactor), lithium production, and possibly facilities dedicated to uranium enrichment, at least on a research and development scale.
Topic:: Arms Control and Proliferation, Nuclear Weapons, and Nuclear Power
Political Geography:: Middle East and Israel

5293. Daesh Hype about Stealing Nuclear Weapons

Author:: David Albright and Sarah Burkhard
Publication Date:: 10-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for Science and International Security
Abstract:: With Daesh entrenched in Syria and Iraq and growing in influence in North Africa and Pakistan, the risk is likely to grow that the terrorist group or one of its allies will seek nuclear weapons. Or at least this is what they want the world to think since their publications imply these intentions. But Daesh’s public claims of ways to accomplish that goal are unfounded and mainly seem intended to simply incite fear. At ISIS, we assess that the risk of Daesh acquiring nuclear weapons is low. However, that characterization needs to be carefully considered. The chance of Daesh acquiring a nuclear weapon, either through theft of a functioning nuclear weapon, or of nuclear explosive material followed by the manufacturing of a crude nuclear explosive, is assessed as low, similar to the risk of a major nuclear reactor accident, such as the Chernobyl and Fukishima disasters. However, although the chance of Daesh stealing a nuclear weapon is low, the consequences would be horrible and extraordinary efforts need to be waged to ensure that the risk becomes even lower. A nuclear explosive going off in a major city would have catastrophic consequences, probably far worse than those of Chernobyl or Fukishima. While the threat of Daesh stealing or otherwise acquiring a nuclear weapon needs to be taken seriously, Daesh writings on the subject should be discounted. In a May 2015 article in the Daesh magazine Dabiq, the British journalist John Cantlie warns of Daesh’s rapid global expansion and its capabilities to launch major terroristic attacks – including acquiring a nuclear weapon and smuggling it into the United States. It is uncertain if Cantlie actually penned the article, titled “The Perfect Storm.” However, the sentiments of the piece likely reflect Daesh ambitions.
Topic:: Nuclear Weapons, Terrorism, and Islamic State
Political Geography:: Pakistan, Middle East, and North Africa

5294. Working With a Rising India

Author:: Charles R. Kayne, Joseph S. Nye Jr., and Alyssa Ayres
Publication Date:: 11-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Council on Foreign Relations
Abstract:: “A rising India offers one of the most substantial opportunities to advance American national interests over the next two decades,” asserts a new Independent Task Force report sponsored by the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Working With a Rising India: A Joint Venture for the New Century. Over the past ten years, India, the world's largest democracy, has lifted more than 130 million people out of poverty. The country has rebounded from a recent economic growth slump, surpassing China this year to become the world's fastest-growing major economy. “If India can maintain its current growth rate, let alone attain sustained double digits, it has the potential over the next two to three decades to follow China on the path to becoming another $10 trillion economy,” notes the Task Force. With Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prioritization of economic growth and foreign policy revitalization, the country now has a window of opportunity to either make the necessary reforms or risk being left behind. “[India] will have to decide whether it wants to become a major part of global trade flows and deeply integrated into global supply chains. Doing so would boost India's efforts to grow its manufacturing sector and its economy; choosing not to will make that ambition harder to achieve.” Because India does not seek an alliance with the United States and closely guards its policy independence, U.S.-India relations will not resemble those Washington has with its conventional allies. For that reason, the Task Force recommends that “U.S. policymakers [should] explicitly emphasize a ‘joint-venture’ model for U.S.-India relations, focused on a slate of shared pursuits on which interests converge—and with clear mechanisms for coordinating and managing the known and expected disagreements.” The bipartisan Task Force is chaired by Charles R. Kaye, co-chief executive officer of the private equity firm Warburg Pincus and former chairman of the U.S.-India Business Council, and Joseph S. Nye Jr., distinguished service professor and former dean of the Harvard Kennedy School. Directed by CFR Senior Fellow for India, Pakistan, and South Asia Alyssa Ayres, the Task Force is composed of sixteen prominent experts from government, academic, nonprofit, and other sectors.
Topic:: Diplomacy, International Cooperation, International Trade and Finance, Bilateral Relations, Democracy, and Economic Growth
Political Geography:: India, Asia, North America, and United States of America

5295. Human Rights Due Diligence through Stakeholder Engagement?

Author:: Brigitte Hamm and Anne Schax
Publication Date:: 01-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Institute for Development and Peace
Abstract:: The report examines to what extent stakeholder engagement as a form of private governance can contribute to a corporation’s human rights due diligence performance. It takes as the basis for investigation a case study of a stakeholder engagement program implemented by the oper- ating company SMI for a planned copper-gold mine in the Philippines during the project’s pre- operational phase. The analysis examines criteria for good stakeholder engagement set out by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and uses the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights as the conceptual framework. For the case investigated here, it is established that SMI’s stakeholder engagement program as well as the IFC’s guidelines evince several shortcomings from a human rights perspective, which in turn negatively affect other due dili- gence processes.
Topic:: Human Rights, United Nations, Governance, and Humanitarian Crisis
Political Geography:: Philippines, Asia-Pacific, and Global Focus

5296. Firm-Level Technology and Competitiveness in Vietnam: Evidence from 2010-2014 surveys

Author:: Carol Newman, John Rand, Finn Tarp, Neda Trifković, and Nguyen Tue Anh
Publication Date:: 04-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: United Nations University
Abstract:: This report summarises information from the Vietnam Technology and Competitiveness Survey (TCS) that has been conducted every year since 2010, concluding with 2014. The TCS has been a collaborative effort of the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM), the General Statistics Office (GSO) and the Development Economics Research Group (DERG) of the Department of Economics (DoE), University of Copenhagen. The data used in this report is based on four survey rounds, and, with the addition of future rounds of the survey, aims to give researchers and policymakers a detailed understanding of the dynamics of technology, productivity and profitability of Vietnam’s growing private sector. This report provides readers with an introduction to the main features of the dataset and an overview of the main trends among the firm from the manufacturing sector in Vietnam. As the report does not provide a complete description of the full range of information collected in all survey rounds, both interested readers and researchers are encouraged to review the survey questionnaire and explore the full survey dataset.
Topic:: Science and Technology, Private Sector, and Survey
Political Geography:: Vietnam and Southeast Asia

5297. Survivors Speak: Reflections on Criminal Justice System Responses to Domestic Violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Author:: Majda Halilović and Heather Huhtanen
Publication Date:: 01-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF)
Abstract:: Domestic violence has increasingly been recognized as a societal problem and a criminal act as opposed to a private family matter. This is demonstrated by legislation that criminalizes acts of family violence and promotes gender equality and human rights. The question remains, however, whether criminal justice system professionals (police, prosecutors and judges) are applying existing legislation intended to hold perpetrators accountable, protect victims and their children and ultimately interrupt the damaging intergenerational pattern of domestic violence. This research explores the experiences of survivors of systematic domestic violence and contrasts those stories with common theories on the causes of domestic violence and criminal justice system practices in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The resulting publication reveals the extent to which systematic domestic violence is not appreciated as a serious criminal violation, and as a result, places victims, their children and the community at increased risk. Survivors Speak goes on to concretely identify evidence based risk factors within cases of domestic violence, validated through qualitative research in BiH. These risk factors can be used by criminal justice system professionals to appropriately assess and tailor the police, prosecutorial and judicial response to domestic violence, thereby enhancing victim and community safety and interrupting the intergenerational cycle of domestic violence
Topic:: Crime, Gender Issues, Human Rights, Law Enforcement, Gender Based Violence, Memory, and Violence
Political Geography:: Geneva, Europe, Eastern Europe, and Bosnia and Herzegovina

5298. La Protection des Données Personnelles dans le Cadre du Secteur de la Sécurité au Maroc (The Protection of Personal Data in Relation to the Security Sector in Morocco)

Author:: Cécile Guy, Alizée Henry, and Habib Belkouch
Publication Date:: 10-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF)
Abstract:: This report summarizes the discussions at the seminar on the protection of personal data in relation to the security sector in Morocco, held in Rabat on 19 and 20 October 2015. It aims to assess the situation of the protection of personal data in relation to the security sector in Morocco on the one hand, and to sensitize stakeholders to the importance of protecting citizens' privacy as an issue of major security governance in connected companies on the other hand.
Topic:: Security, Science and Technology, Governance, Privacy, and Surveillance
Political Geography:: Geneva, Europe, North Africa, and Morocco

5299. Migration Management of Syrians in Turkey in the framework of the EU’s Migration Policy

Author:: Turkish Economic and Social Studies Foundation (TESEV)
Publication Date:: 11-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Turkish Economic and Social Studies Foundation (TESEV)
Abstract:: Turkish Economic and Social Studies Foundation – TESEV and Friedrich Naumann Foundation have organized, in collaboration with the Mersin Chamber of Commerce and Industry a conference titled “Migrant Management of Syrians in Turkey in the Framework of the EU Migration Policy” on October 20th, 2015 in Mersin. The opening remarks were made by Burhanettin Kocamaz, the Mayor of the Mersin Metropolitan Mucipality; Şerafettin Aşut, the Chairman of the Mersin Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Prof. Dr. Aydın Uğur the Chairman of the Executive Board of TESEV. During three panels entitled as Migrant management in Turkey in the framework of the EU migration policy, Management of Syrian migrants in Turkey, and Being a Syrian migrant in Turkey, public authorities, academics, and Syrians have discussed the challenges and policy recommendations to improve Syrians’ lives and migrant management in Turkey.
Topic:: Migration, Refugee Issues, Refugee Crisis, and Syrian War
Political Geography:: Turkey, Middle East, and Syria

5300. Local Recommendations for Access to Justice in Turkey

Author:: Bürge Elvan Erginli, Gamze Nur Çelik, Koray Özdil, and Seda Akço Bilen
Publication Date:: 11-2015
Content Type:: Special Report
Institution:: Turkish Economic and Social Studies Foundation (TESEV)
Abstract:: The report “Local Recommendations for Access to Justice in Turkey” was developed under the project Enhancing Civic Participation and Confidence Building in the Judicial Reform Process and run in partnership with the Turkish Economic and Social Studies Foundation (TESEV) and Turkije Instituut, based in Leiden, Netherlands. The main objectives of the project are to identify, at a local level, the problems that prevent citizens in Turkey from accessing justice in judicial processes, to support local actors serving in the field of justice and law in turning identified problems into significant policy recommendations, and thus, to develop local recommendations for judicial reform.
Topic:: Environment, Law, Courts, and Justice
Political Geography:: Turkey, Middle East, and Netherlands

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COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY PRESS