German Politics: What If the SPD Balks?

Even if the SPD votes against joining a new “GroKo” government, the damage which prolonged political uncertainty in Berlin would inflict on Germany and Europe would be very limited.

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Germany and Europe: A New Relationship?

If it comes to pass, Germany’s new “grand coalition” government’s EU-related plans represent progress for Macron’s calls to reform Europe.

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“Nice” China? The Aloofness of Pax Sinica

Given its inherent sense of superiority, could China — once a global hegemon — be more peaceful than its Western (and especially U.S.) predecessors?

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Iran Protests: The “Military Economy” Dimension

A big share of Iran’s economy is owned by the business wings of the armed forces.

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Iran Protests: Frustrating Budget Changes

Cuts and hikes in all the wrong places?

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Iran Protests: The Oil and Gas Dimension

Iranians have long taken national pride in their natural resource wealth. But ordinary people aren’t seeing the benefits.

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Iran Protests: The Inflation Dimension

Once again, sharply rising food prices contribute to turmoil.

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Iran Protests: Urbanization as a Factor

Most Iranians live in cities. Protests are no longer confined to Tehran and other big cities, as the move to small cities is changing the landscape of protests.

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Iran Protests: The Young and the Jobless

Iran’s economy continues to struggle with not finding enough jobs for its young.

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Hungary’s Viktor Orban: Europe’s Flame Thrower

How Viktor Orban rides the populist wave against Muslim “invaders.”

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