Why the Arctic Matters

As the ice in the Arctic continues to melt, countries are staking claims and preparing for economic and military development in the region. This “new frontier” has promise of prosperity, yet is rife with geopolitical risk as competition for its resources heats up between world powers like the US, Russia, and China. In this episode, we give a little background on recent developments in the Arctic and the political structure governing the region. We then look at the military, energy, and economic factors affecting the Arctic Continue reading →

Al-Qaeda’s Global Network

Al-Qaeda has pervaded international headlines for years, but how much do you really know about the Islamist militant group? In this episode, we explore how the group is organized, how it is decentralized across many countries, and  how it is funded. Continue reading →

The Militarization of Space

As the world becomes more reliant on space-based capabilities for everyday use,  leaders across the world have expressed concern about the vulnerability of space assets. In this episode, we detail weaponized threats to space systems, military threats emanating from space, and efforts to mitigate such threats.  Continue reading →

Logistics of Peacekeeping Missions

From acquisition of equipment to finances and personnel, peacekeeping missions are massive, complicated endeavors. To help us understand the logistics peacekeeping missions and the partnerships that make them work, we spoke with Dr. Paul Williams, an expert on security, conflict resolution, and peacekeeping. For a more in depth analysis and policy recommendations, we recommend Dr. Williams’ and Katharina Coleman’s recent report titled Logistics Partnerships in Peace Operations.  Continue reading →

Understanding the Kashmir Conflict

The disputed region of Kashmir and Jammu has endured persistent conflict since Indian and Pakistani independence in 1947. Militancy and fears of nuclear escalation abound as both states and state-sponsored groups battle for control and influence in the area. Continue reading →

Spotlight: Urumqi

Positioned in China’s resource-rich northwestern region, the city of Urumqi is gaining strategic importance as China seeks to diversify its energy resources. However, ethnic and cultural tensions between the Chinese government and Uighur minority population continue to threaten the region’s stability. Continue reading →

Zoos in Conflict Zones

One of the many stories that go untold in conflict zones is the fate of zoos and their animals. There are concerns for the animals’ safety as well as for humans if predatory animals escape. In this episode, we explore just a few examples of efforts to safeguard zoos during war. Continue reading →

Population Structure and its Effects on Stability

How can demographics positively or negatively impact a country’s economic growth and national security? In this episode, we discuss how an unbalanced age or gender structure can be a boon or a curse for stability.

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